cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
End-stage renal disease: unmet treatment needs across the globe

Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health and economic burden globally. This progressive disease is treatable by dialysis and kidney transplantation when the kidneys reach CKD stage 5 or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), but these two interventions are very expensive and often unavailable in low-resource settings. The aim of this study is to provide a country-level comparison of dialysis rates, transplantation rates, and untreated CKD stage 5 in order to identify countries and regions with large disparities and unmet treatment need for ESRD. Methods We used a negative binomial Bayesian meta-regression tool to analyse data collected from systematic literature reviews and national renal replacement registries in order to estimate incidence and prevalence of ESRD on dialysis, ESRD with kidney transplantation, and untreated ESRD for 187 countries by year, age, and sex. We then assessed ratios of treated to untreated ESRD to identify countries with extreme unmet need for kidney disease treatment. Findings Both dialysis and kidney transplantation rates have increased considerably since 1990, but there are still significant disparities both within and across countries. Globally in 2010, the proportion of CKD stage 5 and ESRD patients who received dialysis or had kidney transplantation was only 58·9% (95% CI 55·6–61·0), ranging from less than 2% in most of sub-Saharan Africa to over 70% in high-income North America, high-income Asia Pacific, and east Asia. Interpretation These estimates are a crucial factor to help to inform public health policy decisions and the nephrology community, especially in countries previously lacking such estimates. There is an urgent need for better monitoring and data collection of CKD stage 5 in order to better prepare health systems for ESRD treatment needs. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the funders.
Real-time scheduling of production with dynamic setup changes

Abstract In this paper we discuss the approach to model a real-time control system for a two part type, two machine, two buffer manufacturing system with finite set-up change times for machines. The environment isstochastic due to random machine breakdown and repair times. A four level hierarchical structure is usedfor this purpose. The objective is to minimize the work-in-process inventory while satisfying the demand.The demand rate is considered to be piece-wise constant. Simulations are made on the system to study itsperformance. 1 INTRODUCTION Many manufacuring systems in industry are prone to random machine failures. Also the manufacturing systems may not be completely flexible. For instance, they may require a finite time to change setup from one part type to another. A manufacturing system with good production control has low work-in-process(WIP) inventory while being able to satisfythe demand. Just-in-time(JIT) manufacturing systems in Japan have been successful in showing these characteristics.JIT uses the Kanban production policy. Although Kanban seems very promising due to its success in Japan, some studies(Sarker and Fitzsimmons [7]) have shown that although Kanban system performs well in deterministic environment, itsperformance in stochastic environment may not be as good. It is required to determine production policies which respondto the random changes in the manufacturing environment and calculate the optimal production policy in real time .Withall these factors in mind we try to develop a model for failure prone systems with finite setup change times, which makesproduction decisions in real time to control the production rate and WIP.From the production control point of view, the main costs involved in manufacturing systems with non-negligible
Changing physician blood utilization practices through continuous personalized data feedback and systematic education across a large integrated healthcare system

METHODS: Patients who underwent resection of rectal cancer were selected from the 2010-2011 National Cancer Data Base (NCDB). The type of resection (open, laparoscopic or robotic) is captured in NCDB. Patient and systemic factors associated with robotic rectal cancer resections were examined using univariate analysis. Factors with a p-value<0.2 were included in the multivariable logistic regression, with a final p-value of 0.05 considered significant.
High-Resolution Spectroscopy of the 2ν3 Band of 12CH3F

Abstract The 2ν 3 overtone band of 12 CH 3 F was measured in the 2050-2150 cm −1 spectral range at an unapodized resolution of 0.004 cm −1 . Spectroscopic constants for 2ν 3 were determined and compared with results obtained from a combination of data found for the ν 3 fundamental and 2ν 3 -ν 3 hot bands.
Aluminum and water stress effects on growth and proline of sorghum

Summary Plants grown on acid soil with high exchangeable Al often show decreased growth and water deficit (WD) symptoms. Detailed comparisons of separate and combined effects between Al toxicity and WD would help identify plants for tolerance or resistance to these factors to enhance plant improvement procedures. Separate and simultaneous effects of Al toxicity and WD [induced by polyethylene glycol-8000 (PEG)] on growth and proline accumulation of two sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) genotypes were determined. (drought- and Al-sensitive) and SC283 (drought- and Al-resistant) sorghum were grown in a growth chamber in nutrient solutions with 0, 200, 400, and 600 μmol/L Al and 0, 4.4, 7.0, and 9.6% PEG separately and in combination. Increased Al and WD separately decreased shoot and root dry matter, leaf area, net main axis root length, total and specific root length, (RL/root DM). The WD treatments had greater effects on growth traits than Al. Gombinations of Al and PEG (Al+PEG) decreased shoot and root DM, LA, NMARL, and TRL. The LA/RL increased as Al increased, and LA/root DM and LA/RL were not affected by Al+PEG. Proline did not increase in shoots and roots of plants grown with Al, but did increase extensively when grown with WD; shoots had higher proline than roots. Combinations of Al+PEG resulted in higher proline in both shoots and roots than Al stress alone. Overall, SC283 was generally less affected by Al and WD than Redlan.
Straightening of curved pattern of collagen fibers under load controls aortic valve shape

The network of collagen fibers in the aortic valve leaflet is believed to play an important role in the strength and durability of the valve. However, in addition to its stress-bearing role, such a fiber network has the potential to produce functionally important shape changes in the closed valve under pressure load. We measured the average pattern of the collagen network in porcine aortic valve leaflets after staining for collagen. We then used finite element simulation to explore how this collagen pattern influences the shape of the closed valve. We observed a curved or bent pattern, with collagen fibers angled downward from the commissures toward the center of the leaflet to form a pattern that is concave toward the leaflet free edge. Simulations showed that these curved fiber trajectories straighten under pressure load, leading to functionally important changes in closed valve shape. Relative to a pattern of straight collagen fibers running parallel to the leaflet free edge, the concave pattern of curved fibers produces a closed valve with a 40% increase in central leaflet coaptation height and with decreased leaflet billow, resulting in a more physiological closed valve shape. Furthermore, simulations show that these changes in loaded leaflet shape reflect changes in leaflet curvature due to modulation of in-plane membrane stress resulting from straightening of the curved fibers. This effect appears to play an important role in normal valve function and may have important implications for the design of prosthetic and tissue engineered replacement valves.
Die cytomimetische organische Chemie — ein erster Bericht

Dieser Aufsatz beschreibt, wie ein einfaches System, die Riesenvesikel, durch chemische und physikalische Reize zu einer Vielzahl cytomimetischer Umwandlungen wie Verschmelzung, Teilung, Endocytose, Knospung (budding), Aggregation, „Gebaren” (birthing) und „Fressen” angeregt werden kann. Setzt man beispielsweise eine Riesenvesikel, in deren Innerem sich eine kleine Vesikel befindet, Octylglucosid aus, so kann die kleinere Vesikel die ausere Membran durchstosen und in das umgebende Medium austreten (Gebaren, birthing). Die dabei entstehende Verletzung an der Membran der Wirtsvesikel verheilt sofort. Der Zusatz von Cholansaure lost hingegen die Futtersuche und den Fresvorgang aus, bei dem die Vesikel schnell wachst, indem sie sich die kleineren Nachbarvesikeln einverleibt. Ist die Nahrung verbraucht, zerstort sich die Riesenvesikel selbst (ein Beispiel fur den naturlichen Prozes aus Geburt, Wachstum und Tod). Diese lebensahnlichen morphologischen Veranderungen konnten mit kauflichen Chemikalien erzielt werden, d.h. diese Prozesse sind der Organischen Chemie, und nicht etwa der Biologie oder Biochemie zuzuordnen. Dieser Aufsatz beinhaltet auch experimentelle Einzelheiten, beispielsweise uber die Herstellung und Beobachtung von Vesikeln, in der Hoffnung, interessierten Lesern den Einstieg in dieses noch nicht entwickelte Arbeitsgebiet zu erleichtern.
Alkylidyne Complexes of Molybdenum and Tungsten That Contain the [(3,4,5-C6H2F3NCH2CH2)2NMe]2- Ligand

Reduction of (C6F5NHCH2CH2)2NMe with LiAlH4 produces (3,4,5-C6H2F3NHCH2CH2)2NMe (H2[F3NMe]) in good yield. Reactions between H2[F3NMe] and MCl4 (M = Mo, W) in the presence of NEt3 yield pseudooctah...
Decrease in junior resident case volume after 2011 ACGME work hours.

Objective To determine how the new 2011 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education work hours affected case volume across postgraduate year (PGY) levels of surgical trainees. Design Retrospective review of Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education case logs of surgical residents at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center from 2006 to 2013. Setting Tertiary care center. Participants All categorical surgical residents from 2006 to 2013. Results PGY-1 cases decreased from 139 (122.25-172.5) to 111.5 (102.25-117.5) (p = 0.003). PGY-2 case volume decreased as well from 162 (151.5-192) to 126 (95.5-173) (p = 0.011). Only 45% of PGY-2 residents performed more than 250 major cases after the work hours changed compared with 82% of residents before 2011. PGY-3 cases increased from 263 (215-309) to 309 (282-340) (p = 0.0038). Cases performed by PGY-4 and PGY-5 residents were not statistically different. Total cases performed by graduating chiefs, however, has increased from 987 (848.5-1050) to 1090 (1033-1145) (p = 0.0006). Conclusions Intern and PGY-2 case volume has declined at our institution as new work-hour regulations took effect in 2011. However, PGY-3 case volume increased significantly, and graduating chiefs are graduating with more cases. The work hours do not appear to have had the intended result of improving intern educational experience from a standpoint of case volume. Significant programmatic changes will likely be required to achieve the 250-case minimum by the end of PGY-2 year, as per 2014 American Board of Surgery requirements.
The Iowa Sleep Experiences Survey: Hypnotizability, absorption, and dissociation

The present study (N = 163) examined the relationship between sleep experiences and a number of variables including hypnotic suggestibility, dissociation, absorption, and negative affect. The General Sleep Experiences Scale (GSE) of the Iowa Sleep Experiences Survey (ISES) correlated with measures of absorption, dissociation, negative affect, and lucid dreaming. Lucid dreaming and negative affect were significantly yet weakly correlated. Regression analysis indicated that negative affect and absorption were significant predictors of GSE scores. All the variables combined, including absorption and measures of dissociation, accounted for 38% of GSE variance. Hypnotic responsiveness was not associated with lucid dreaming, dissociation, or the GSE. However, a subset of ISES items were significant predictors of suggestibility. Moreover, our results suggested that absorption may be at the heart of the link between the ISES and dissociation, and that there is a modicum of continuity of waking and sleep-related experiences.
Patch averaging of electron images of GP32∗I crystals with variable thickness☆

The combination of Fourier and correlation averaging techniques with multivariate statistical analysis and classification, a method known as patch averaging, is used to analyze untilted and tilted images of negatively stained GP32*I crystals, which exhibit variable thicknesses in a single crystal. Within a single image, coherent areas of the same apparent thickness can be distinguished from areas of differing thicknesses. Analysis using the phase relationships among symmetry-related reflections from reconstituted images obtained from untilted micrographs confirms the ability of the method to classify these variable thicknesses properly. Furthermore, the phases from some of the reconstituted images obtained from both untilted and tilted micrographs were found to match well with the phases in a previously determined three-dimensional data set of this crystal with pg symmetry along the crystallographic b axis. These results indicate the utility of the patch averaging procedures in the structural determination of protein crystals with different thicknesses.
Bridging the B2C and B2B Research Divide: The Domain of Retailing Literature

Abstract As the oldest academic journal in marketing, Journal of Retailing publishes research dealing with all sorts of B2B and B2C retailing-related topics. However, there appears to be a perception that Journal of Retailing welcomes only research pertaining to B2C issues. In this article, we debunk that perception through an analysis of the content of Journal of Retailing articles published during the 2002–2008 period. In particular, we find that only 18.7% of Journal of Retailing 's content is devoted exclusively to B2C or C2C (consumer-to-consumer) topics. The remainder focuses on B2B research issues. We explore the implications of these findings for researchers who wish to pursue retailing-related B2B research.
A 4 symmetry and neutrinos with very different masses

The ${A}_{4}$ model of leptons was proposed originally for nearly degenerate neutrino masses. With minimal modification, it is shown to accommodate as well the cases of normal hierarchy and inverted hierarchy. In all cases, this new model predicts ${\mathrm{sin}}^{2}2{\ensuremath{\theta}}_{\mathrm{atm}}=1$ and ${\mathrm{tan}}^{2}{\ensuremath{\theta}}_{\mathrm{sol}}=0.5$ for ${U}_{e3}=0.$ It also predicts their deviations from 1 and 0.5 respectively for ${U}_{e3}\ensuremath{\ne}0.$
Hidden markov models for the stimulus-response relationships of multistate neural systems

Given recent experimental results suggesting that neural circuits may evolve through multiple firing states, we develop a framework for estimating state-dependent neural response properties from spike train data. We modify the traditional hidden Markov model HMM framework to incorporate stimulus-driven, non-Poisson point-process observations. For maximal flexibility, we allow external, time-varying stimuli and the neurons' own spike histories to drive both the spiking behavior in each state and the transitioning behavior between states. We employ an appropriately modified expectation-maximization algorithm to estimate the model parameters. The expectation step is solved by the standard forward-backward algorithm for HMMs. The maximization step reduces to a set of separable concave optimization problems if the model is restricted slightly. We first test our algorithm on simulated data and are able to fully recover the parameters used to generate the data and accurately recapitulate the sequence of hidden states. We then apply our algorithm to a recently published data set in which the observed neuronal ensembles displayed multistate behavior and show that inclusion of spike history information significantly improves the fit of the model. Additionally, we show that a simple reformulation of the state space of the underlying Markov chain allows us to implement a hybrid half-multistate, half-histogram model that may be more appropriate for capturing the complexity of certain data sets than either a simple HMM or a simple peristimulus time histogram model alone.
Manipulating spatial and temporal resources in agro-ecosystems: environmental inputs to resource management

When intensified agro‐ecosystems are compared to subsistence systems three major differences are apparent. In intensified agro‐ecosystems, genetic homogeneity is increased, stock levels are increased, and fallow time is reduced. These changes alter the amount, type, and rate of resource allocation. The paper supports the position that planners can manipulate species diversity and space‐time parameters to effectively partition resources in ways that will increase harvestable biomass and enhance ecological stability. Community interactions and succession patterns can be adjusted to help minimize topsoil deterioration and resource depletion. Specific agricultural techniques are presented to aid agriculturalists to develop long‐term sustainable agro‐ecosystems.
Circular dichroism spectra of α-lactalbumin

Abstract 1. 1. The circular dichroism spectra of α-lactalbumin have been obtained over a wide pH range. The near ultraviolet elipticity bands of the protein arise from transitions of asymmetric tryptophan and cystine residues. A contribution from tyrosine residues is not discernible because of overlap of its elipticity bands with tryptophan and cystine. 2. 2. Based on the far ultraviolet elipticity bands, a tentative conformation of the polypeptide chain of α-lactalbumin has been proposed which contains 25–26% helix, 14–15% beta structure, and 60% unordered structure. 3. 3. Significant changes occur in the near and far ultraviolet elipticity bands above pH 9 and below pH 4, and indicate an increase in α-helix content, and greater freedom of movement of side chains in the denatured protein compared to the native protein.
Moving toward Educational Change--Where Does One Start?.

Too many teachers and administrators have little idea of how to promote change, says this writer, who looks at the concept of motivation as related to organizational change.
Avoiding refractive problems in cataract surgery.

Abstract A good visual result after cataract surgery and intraocular lens implantation depends on preoperative determination of an “ideal” postoperative refraction. This will depend on the refractive error in the other eye and whether the cataract is monocular or binocular. Methods are outlined for calculating the postoperative refraction and refracting the pseudophakic patient after surgery.
Women and Social Movements in Latin America: Power from Below

Women and Social Movements in Latin America: Power from Below. LYNN STEPHEN. Austin: University of Texas Press, 1997. xviii. 332 pp., figures, notes, bibliography, index.
Two-State Folding Kinetics of Small Proteins in the Sequential Collapse Model: Dependence of the Folding Rate on Contact Order and Temperature

In this paper, the dynamics of the collapse-like folding transitions of globular proteins with two-state kinetics is studied. The analyses rely on a simple free energy functional for the formation ...
Observations on delayed neurologic deficit after thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair

Abstract Purpose: To describe the phenomenon of delayed-onset neurologic deficit after thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair and to discuss management of this type of deficit in a case series. Methods: Since September 1992 we have used cerebrospinal fluid drainage and distal aortic perfusion routinely to reduce the risk of neurologic deficit in thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm patients. All patent intercostal arteries were reattached when this was technically feasible. Delayed neurologic complications occurred in eight patients who underwent operation for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm between September 1992 and March 1997, between 1 and 14 days after awakening from anesthesia. All patients had immediate cerebrospinal fluid drainage on recognition of their symptoms. Results: Patients were evaluated by an independent neurologist and were classified by a modified Tarlov score between 0 and 5. All eight patients improved at least two points by discharge. The mean change in Tarlov score from onset to discharge was 2.4 ± 1.1 ( p = 0.008). Conclusions: Cerebrospinal fluid drainage significantly improved late-onset neurologic deficit that occurred between 1 day and 2 weeks after operation in our series. Immediate drainage should be considered when signs of neurologic deficit first begin to appear. (J Vasc Surg 1997;26:616-22.)
A particular exact solution to the central core model of the renal medulla

We calculate the exact solution to the eight coupled, nonlinear ordinary differential equations describing the central core model of the renal medulla for the case in which no exchange of water is allowed between Tubes 1 and 3 with Tube 4. The calculation is based on the use of a particular form for the pump function that describes the flux of solute metabolically pumped from Tube 2 into the core. The analysis is extended by calculating corrections to this particular exact solution by using a perturbation method in which the small parameter is related to the now assumed nonzero water permeabilities.
Studies in hay fever: Specific desensitization of skin sites in actively sensitive persons☆

Abstract 1. 1. When local skin sites in patients with hay fever are injected repeatedly with pollen extract, desensitization usually results. 2. 2. This desensitization is always relative—never absolute. A stronger dilution will cause a reaction in sites which do not react to a weaker dilution. 3. 3. Desensitization is temporary. The skin reaction returns in many cases if the area is left untreated for a few days. 4. 4. Rapid desensitization may be produced by doses given at hourly intervals in those cases in which the doses at daily intervals do not cause a lessening of the response. 5. 5. Crossed reactions between the three grass pollens common to New England occur in many cases—not in all. Their incidence probably depends upon a mechanism which is similar to that causing the variation in the recipient of passively transferred local sensitiveness. 6. 6. The bearing of these observations on the treatment of hay fever is discussed briefly.
Functional stimuli responsive hydrogel devices by self-folding

We describe a photolithographic approach to create functional stimuli responsive, self-folding, microscale hydrogel devices using thin, gradient cross-linked hinges and thick, fully cross-linked panels. The hydrogels are composed of poly (N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) (pNIPAM-AAc) with reversible stimuli responsive properties just below physiological temperatures. We show that a variety of three-dimensional structures can be formed and reversibly actuated by temperature or pH. We experimentally characterized the swelling and mechanical properties of pNIPAM-AAc and developed a finite element model to rationalize self-folding and its variation with hinge thickness and swelling ratio. Finally, we highlight applications of this approach in the creation of functional devices such as self-folding polymeric micro-capsules, untethered micro-grippers and thermally steered micro-mirror systems.
Cluster Model of Baryons

Baryons are studied in the constituent quark model by reducing the three-body problem to equivalent two-body problems involving a diquark and a quark. Rotational and radial excitations of the diquark or of the third quark are calculated by using nonrelativistic mesonic $q\overline{q}$ potentials which are fitted to meson masses. The results are found to be in good agreement with experimental baryon masses. A strong suppression of the mesonic spin-orbit potential is required for light baryons, in agreement with the conclusion of other authors.
Engagement behavior of lubricated porous annular disks. Part I: Squeeze film phase — surface roughness and elastic deformation effects

Abstract The lubricated clutch engagement behavior of two annular disks, one of which is covered with a layer of porous material, was analyzed. The engagement model dealt with was postulated to consist of three phases: squeeze film phase, mixed asperity contact phase and consolidating contact phase. In the squeeze film phase, the porous material is considered to be elastically deformable and to have a rough surface. Solutions of pressure distribution, load capacity and film thickness versus time have been obtained for various geometric, material and operating parameters. In the paper following (Part II) the consolidating phase behavior was analyzed based on the theory of poroelasticity, and comparison was made between analysis and experiment at squeeze film and consolidating contact phases indicating good qualitative agreement. The investigation of mixed asperity contact phase is not yet completed.
Design Of A Grating Spectrometer From A 1:1 Offner Mirror System

A 1:1 Offner mirror system is modified to work as a grating spectrometer for the infrared by placing a grating on the secondary convex mirror of the system. Slight adjustment of the configuration combined with tilt of the secondary provide the necessary degrees of freedom to correct for astigmatism of the system. Additional control may be obtained by using a holographic optical element (HOE), constructed to add necessary compensating aberrations. Details of the best configuration and the limitations of performance are presented.
Effect of polychlorinated biphenyls on hepatic microsomal enzymes in the rat.

Abstract Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) are widely used industrial synergists and stabilizers that have been detected in various animal systems throughout the world. Although these chemicals possess a low acute toxicity, recent indications are that they may possess a high chronic toxicity. To evaluate further the toxicity of PCB mixtures, rats were fed diets containing 4 different Aroclors varying in chlorine content from 42 to 60% for 4 wk at levels of 0.5, 5, 50, and 500 ppm. The influence of PCB was studied by determining liver weights, hepatic triglyceride concentration and glucose-6-phosphatase activity, microsomal enzyme activities (nitroreduction, demethylation and hydroxylation) and microsomal cytochrome P-450 content. Liver-to-body weight ratios and cytochrome P-450 content were significantly increased at 50 and 500 ppm for all PCB mixtures; the increase in cytochrome P-450 was somewhat greater with increasing chlorine content. Significant increases in liver triglycerides were seen at 500 ppm, with a maximum effect occurring at approximately 50% chlorine content. A dose-related increase in demethylase activity was observed, with a 2.5- to 3-fold increase over control values at 500 ppm for all mixtures. Effects were maximum at approximately 50% chlorine content. A dose-related increase in pentobarbital hydroxylation was seen, and the induction of hydroxylation increased with increasing chlorine content. Nitroreductase activity was markedly stimulated with increasing doses of PCB, and induction was seen at levels as low as 0.5 ppm for all mixtures. The maximal effect appears to be at levels higher than 500 ppm. The highest levels of activity were seen with 60% chlorination.
Winning at work: Trait competitiveness, personality types, and occupational interests

Abstract This study examined the relationship between trait competitiveness and occupational interests of under-graduates prior to entering the work force. The findings indicate that competitiveness is related to Investigative and Realistic types within Holland’s model of vocational choice and that competitive individuals are attracted to jobs involving competition and competitive pressure based on O*NET job characteristic ratings. Implications for future research are discussed.
Experimental electronic heat capacities of α- and δ-plutonium: Heavy-fermion physics in an element

We have measured the heat capacities of δ-Pu 0 . 9 5 Al 0 . 0 5 and α-Pu over the temperature range 2-303 K. The availability of data below 10 K plus an estimate of the phonon contribution to the heat capacity based on recent neutron-scattering experiments on the same sample enable us to make a reliable deduction of the electronic contribution to the heat capacity of δ-Pu 0 . 9 5 Αl 0 . 0 5 ; we find γ = 64 ′ 3 mJ K - 2 mol - 1 as T → 0. This is larger than that of any element and large enough for δ-Pu 0 . 9 5 Al 0 . 0 5 to be classed as a heavy-fermion system. By contrast, y = 17 ′ 1 mJ K - 2 mol - 1 in α-Pu. Two distinct anomalies are seen in the electronic contribution to the heat capacity of δ-Pu 0 . 9 5 Al 0 . 0 5 , one or both of which may be associated with the formation of the α'-martensitic phase. We suggest that the large y value of δ-Pu 0 . 9 5 Al 0 . 0 5 may be caused by proximity to a quantum-critical point.
Selenium and sulfur in antioxidant protective systems: relationships with vitamin E and malaria.

The metabolic relationships among the antioxidant nutrients selenium, sulfur, and vitamin E are particularly close. Selenium and vitamin E have long been known to spare one another in certain nutritional diseases of animals, and selenium has been considered to have a key antioxidant defense function as a component of glutathione peroxidase. However, the antioxidant role of glutathione peroxidase has been questioned and new proteins containing selenium have been identified: phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase, selenoprotein P, and iodothyronine deiodinase. Glutathione peroxidase activity independent of selenium resides in the glutathione S-transferases. Glutathione participates in both enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant defense systems. Some low-molecular weight selenium compounds (e.g., ebselen) exhibit glutathione peroxidase-like action. Certain low molecular weight thiols decompose peroxides nonenzymatically (e.g., the ovothiols). Murine malaria appears to be a useful experimental model for investigating interrelationships of selenium and vitamin E. Vitamin E deficiency protects against the parasite, especially when the mice are concurrently fed peroxidizable fat such as fish or linseed oils. Selenium deficiency, on the other hand, has little or no protective effect against the parasite. Any practical utility of pro-oxidant diets in combating human malaria remains to be determined.
Magnetic resonance imaging and neurological recovery in acute spinal cord injury: observations from the National Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study 3.

Study design: Data are from a multicenter, randomized, double blind clinical trial of acute spinal cord injury. Objectives: To evaluate the prognostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for randomized patients in the National Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study 3 (NASCIS). Setting: Sixteen spinal cord injury centers throughout the United States and Canada. Methods: Of 499 patients randomized in NASCIS 3 between December 1991 and September 1995, MRI was electively done on 191 patients within 72 h of injury. Indications of hemorrhage, edema, and contusion were recorded by standard protocol. Neurological impairment as determined by motor function, response to pin prick and light touch was assessed at admission to the participating center and 6 weeks after injury. Change in neurological function was obtained by subtracting the score of each neurological parameter at admission from that measured at 6 weeks. Spinal cord surgery performed within the 3 days after injury was noted. Data were analyzed by: chi square, analysis of variance, multiple logistic regression and linear regression models. Results: Patients with hemorrhage were much more likely to have a complete injury (OR=2.88, 95 Cl 1.32, 6.23); however this association was much reduced when the initial neurological examination was taken into account (AOR=1.43, 95% Cl 0.55, 3.73) and was no longer a significant predictor of injury. MRI evidence of cord edema was the strongest predictor of reduced improvement in motor function (−3.34 points, P=0.06) and light touch sensation (−3.41 points, P=0.05) at 6 weeks. Conclusions: Cord hemorrhage, contusion, and edema on MRI were not associated with diagnosis of a complete cord injury after neurological assessment from the initial clinical examination was taken into account. Prediction of a worse 6 week neurological status was weakly associated with the presence of edema diagnosed by MRI. As MRI technology improves, these diagnostic and predictive capabilities need to be re-assessed. Sponsorship: NASCIS 3 was funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke at the National Institutes of Health, Washington, DC, USA. Pharmacia and Upjohn provided study drugs and placebos; they also monitored data quality, and funded additional tests, in accordance with Food and Drug Administration regulatory requirements. Dr Bracken has served as an occasional paid consultant to Pharmacia and Upjohn.
Insulin antibodies and hypoglycemia in diabetic patients. Can a quantitative analysis of antibody binding predict the risk of hypoglycemia

We report a noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patient with spontaneous, severe hypoglycemic reactions and the presence of insulin antibodies. He had a remote antecedent history of beef-pork insulin therapy as well as exposure to hydralazine. Detailed insulin binding kinetic studies were performed in this patient as well as in six other insulin-treated diabetic patients with anti-insulin antibodies (three with and three without an obvious cause of hypoglycemia). Sera from the current patient and five of the six other diabetic patients (one NIDDM, four IDDM) revealed two types of binding sites: high-affinity with low capacity (Kd, 0.4-12.4 x 10(-9) mol/L; binding capacity, 0.6-659 mU/L) and low-affinity with high capacity (Kd, 0.3 to 35.7 x 10(-7) mol/L; binding capacity; 202-113,680 mU/L). One NIDDM patient had only high-affinity antibodies (Kd, 22.9 x 10(-9) mol/L; binding capacity of 78 mU/L). Type of diabetes mellitus, insulin antibody titers or their binding capacities, insulin levels (total, bound, or free), and bioavailable insulin were not related to hypoglycemic reactions. Two calculated values by the method described tended to discriminate patients with and without hypoglycemia. The calculated amount of low-affinity antibody bound insulin ranged from 69.4-2090 mU/L vs < 4-70.6 mU/L in patients with and without hypoglycemia, respectively. The best discrimination was afford by the percent saturation of low-affinity binding sites; values were clearly higher in the patients with hypoglycemia (2.5-34.4%) than in those without hypoglycemia (not detectable, 0.06, 0.15%). Consideration of the possible drug-associated insulin antibody formation in insulin-treated diabetics and the novel quantitative analysis of the antibody binding kinetics should prove helpful in evaluating patients with high insulin antibody titers and assessing the risk of hypoglycemia.
An anatomic guide for arthroscopic visualization of the wrist capsular ligaments

Wrist arthroscopy allows examination of the palmar capsular wrist ligaments without extensive exposure. Arthroscopic examination of the wrist requires an accurate knowledge of the ligamentous anatomy as seen from inside the joint. In this study 13 fresh cadaver wrists were examined from the inside out to provide a visual guide for ligament identification during arthroscopy. The major palmar capsular ligaments seen from the inside of the wrist at the radiocarpal joint include the radioscaphoid, radioscaphocapitate, radiolunate, radioscapholunate, ulnolunate, ulnotriquetral ligaments, and the ulnar capsule. At the midcarpal joint, the scaphocapitate, radioscaphocapitate, triquetrocapitate, and triquetrohamate ligaments are identified palmarly. Dorsally, constant capsular structures at the radiocarpal joint are the radiolunate and radioulnotriquetral ligaments along with a prominent synovial fold.
Magneprobe: A portable system for non-destructive testing of ferromagnetic materials

Abstract Magnetic Barkhausen effect emissions have been demonstrated to be very sensitive in the detection of surface stress patterns and microstructural changes. A portable computer controlled instrumentation system to detect and analyze Barkhausen emissions from different depths in the materials has been developed. The software for the system features a number of processing techniques, including pulse height analysis, RMS averaging and Fourier transforms for characterizing the detected signal.
Mitigating Disruptions: Can Resuming an Interrupted Task Be Trained?

Research has shown that with practice people improve on most tasks. It has also been made clear that over time interruptions become less disruptive. It is unclear whether the reduction in interruption disruptiveness is due to a general practice effect or specific to the interruption/resumption process. In this experiment, participants performed three sessions of a task with one, two, or three of the sessions containing interruptions. We found that in addition to all participants showing primary task improvement, those with more exposure to interruptions also showed improvement in dealing with the interruptions. Specifically, participants with practice on only the primary task did not show improvement with the interruptions. These results suggest that the mitigations of the disruptions are directly related to people getting better at handling the interruptions.
DNA sequence of the excision sites of a mitochondrial plasmid from senescent Podospora anserina

During senescence in Podospora anserina, specific gene regions of the mitochondrial genome are excised and amplified. The most prevalent, termed alpha-event senDNA, is a 2600 bp circular molecule which is excised from the contiguous Hae III fragments 23,14 region of the mitochondrial DNA restriction map. We have cloned alpha-DNA plasmid from races s+ and A+ as well as the genomic fragments Hae III 23,14 and have sequenced those regions which constitute the alpha-junction sites. We have found that one excision site (J1) is located 24 bp from the proximal Hae III 23 restriction site and the other (J2) 172 bp from the distal Hae III 14 site. Flanking the alpha-DNA sequences on the mitochondrial genome, there are 10 bp palindromic sequences: CAATATATTG, ending 3 bases from the J1 site, and ATTATATAAT which starts 8 bases from the J2 site. Neither of these 10 bp palindromes are present on the alpha-DNA plasmid. Abutting the J1 site on the alpha-DNA there is a 5 bp sequence (GTGCT) which is repeated 8 bp downstream. In joining the two distal J1 and J2 sites, a 7 bp repeat (ACGTGCG) is produced. These results are discussed within the context of site-specific recombination.
Beam-gas chemiluminescent reactions of Cu(2D) with Cl2, Br2, and I2

Abstract Chemiluminescent reactions involving copper and halogen molecules are shown to result from the bimolecular reaction of metastable Cu(2D) with Cl2, Br2, and I2 under single-collision conditions. The collision-energy dependence of the reactions is described by a hard-sphere model with zero threshold energy. Cross sections for these reactions are compared with that for chemiluminescent reaction of Cu(2S) with F2.
Functional imaging and migraine: new connections?

Purpose of Review Over the last several years, a growing number of brain functional imaging studies have provided insights into mechanisms underlying migraine. This manuscript reviews the recent migraine functional neuroimaging literature and provides recommendations for future studies that will help fill knowledge gaps.
THE ROLE OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE IN SOUTH KOREAN ECONOMIC REFORM

In South Korea, as in some other troubled Asian economies, banks and large public corporations have been run more in the interest of the government and the controlling share-holder group than to maximize efficiency and overall shareholder wealth. Any serious attempt to reform the South Korean economy must thus include significant changes in its system of corporate governance. After discussing in general terms how corporate ownership and control can affect economic performance, this article examines the corporate governance institutions that prevail in different countries, with particular attention to the U.S., Japan, and Germany. From such comparative analysis it then develops a set of criteria for appraising the effectiveness of corporate governance systems that are applied to the specific case of South Korea. The article concludes with number of suggestions for reforming the South Korean corporate governance system, including: 1 greater legal protection for minority shareholders from transactions involving potential conflicts of interest; and 2 strengthening of the incentives of management and large corporate holders, such as house or main banks, to maximize value (as the author notes, “charging management or the board with a legal mandate to ‘balance’ the interests of various constituencies or stakeholders is merely to diminish any legally enforceable responsibility to shareholders”). As the article notes in closing, the main beneficiaries of such governance reforms will not be the new shareholders–including those foreign investors who might be persuaded to buy the stocks–but rather the existing owners, whose shares will command a higher price from “outside” investors. And the greatest beneficiary will be the South Korean nation as a whole, since the resulting improvements in corporate performance and reductions in cost of capital will increase productivity and international competitiveness.
Quantitation of aortic and mitral regurgitation in the pediatric population: evaluation by radionuclide angiocardiography

The ability to quantitate aortic (AR) or mitral regurgitation (MR), or both, by radionuclide angiocardiography was evaluated in children and young adults at rest and during isometric exercise. Regurgitation was estimated by determining the ratio of left ventricular stroke volume to right ventricular stroke volume obtained during equilibrium ventriculography. The radionuclide measurement was compared with results of cineangiography, with good correlation between both studies in 47 of 48 patients. Radionuclide stroke volume ratio was used to classify severity: the group with equivocal regurgitation (p 2.0 is compatible with moderately severe regurgitation and that a ratio >3.0 suggests the presence of severe regurgitation. Thus, radionuclide angiocardiography should be useful for noninvasive quantitation of AR or MR, or both, helping define the course of young patients with left-side valvular regurgitation.
Instanton effects in QCD at high baryon density

We study instanton effects in QCD at very high baryon density. In this regime instantons are suppressed by a large power of $(\Lambda_{QCD}/\mu)$, where $\Lambda_{QCD}$ is the QCD scale parameter and $\mu$ is the baryon chemical potential. Instantons are nevertheless important because they contribute to several physical observables that vanish to all orders in perturbative QCD. We study, in particular, the chiral condensate and its contribution $m_{GB}^2\sim m $ to the masses of Goldstone bosons in the CFL phase of QCD with $N_f=3$ flavors. We find that at densities $\rho\sim (5-10) \rho_0$, where $\rho_0$ is the density of nuclear matter, the result is dominated by large instantons and subject to considerable uncertainties. We suggest that these uncertainties can be addressed using lattice calculations of the instanton density and the pseudoscalar diquark mass in QCD with two colors. We study the topological susceptibility and Witten-Veneziano type mass relations in both $N_c=2$ and $N_c=3$ QCD.
Status of asthma control in pediatric primary care: results from the pediatric Asthma Control Characteristics and Prevalence Survey Study (ACCESS)

Objective To estimate the prevalence of uncontrolled asthma in pediatric patients with asthma visiting their primary care provider for any medical reason. Study design This was a cross-sectional survey conducted at 29 pediatric care sites across the United States. Children age 4-17 years with self- or caregiver-reported asthma completed the Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT) or the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and responded to demographic and health-related questions. Uncontrolled asthma was defined as a C-ACT or ACT score ≤19. Results A total of 2429 children with a diagnosis of asthma (or caregivers) completed the survey. The prevalence of uncontrolled asthma was 46%. The prevalence of uncontrolled asthma was 35% in patients seen for a nonrespiratory complaint versus 54% in those seen for a respiratory complaint. Children seen for a non–respiratory-related complaint with uncontrolled asthma were more likely to have missed 1 or more school days in the previous 4 weeks compared with children with controlled asthma (53% vs 24%). Conclusions These findings highlight the impact of uncontrolled asthma not only in children seen for respiratory complaints, but also in those seen for nonrespiratory complaints. Pediatric care providers should consider evaluating asthma control on a regular basis regardless of the reason for the visit.
A PARAMETRIC STUDY OF THE BEHAVIOR OF COMPRESSION-LOADED GRAPHITE- EPOXY PANELS WITH STIFFENER TERMINATIONS

The results of a parametric study examining six types of stiffener terminations for stiffened graphiteepoxy panels are presented. Stiffener blades are terminated by attaching to another blade, by tapering the stiffener height, by tapering the stiffener thickness, or by a combination of these methods, Stiffener flanges are also terminated abruptly or by tapering their thickness. Flange length is also varied. Both thin-skin panels and thick-skin panels are considered. Panels were analyzed with a nonlinear finite element analysis code to determine panel response and failure modes. Midplane axial and shear strains, surface strains, interlaminar strains and failure predictions for the panels are discussed.
Biological Characterization of Novel Inhibitors of the Gram-Positive DNA Polymerase IIIC Enzyme

Novel N-3-alkylated 6-anilinouracils have been identified as potent and selective inhibitors of bacterial DNA polymerase IIIC, the enzyme essential for the replication of chromosomal DNA in gram-positive bacteria. A nonradioactive assay measuring the enzymatic activity of the DNA polymerase IIIC in gram-positive bacteria has been assembled. The 6-anilinouracils described inhibited the polymerase IIIC enzyme at concentrations in the nanomolar range in this assay and displayed good in vitro activity (according to their MICs) against staphylococci, streptococci, and enterococci. The MICs of the most potent derivatives were about 4 μg/ml for this panel of bacteria. The 50% effective dose of the best compound (6-[(3-ethyl-4-methylphenyl)amino]-3-{[1-(isoxazol-5-ylcarbonyl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl}uracil) was 10 mg/kg of body weight after intravenous application in a staphylococcal sepsis model in mice, from which in vivo pharmacokinetic data were also acquired.