cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Multiple Wearable Technology Devices Heart Rate and Step Count Measurements During Free Motion and Treadmill Based Measurements

Introduction: Wearable Technology Devices are used to promote physical activity. It is unknown whether different devices measure heart rate and step count consistently during walking or jogging in a free motion setting and on a treadmill. Purpose: To compare heart rate and step count values for the Samsung Gear 2, FitBit Surge, Polar A360, Garmin Vivosmart HR+, Scosche Rhythm+ and the Leaf Health Tracker in walking and jogging activities. Methods: Forty volunteers participated. Devices were worn simultaneously in randomized configurations. 5-minute intervals of walking and jogging were completed in free motion and treadmill settings with matching paces. Heart rates at minutes 3, 4, and 5 were averaged for the devices along with the criterion measure, the Polar T31 monitor. Step count criterion measure was the mean of two manual counters. A 2x6 (environment vs device) repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc was performed with significance set at p<0.05. Results: There was no significant interaction or main effects for walking heart rate. Jogging heart rate saw significant environment and device main effects. Walking step count had a significant interaction between the devices and the environment. Jogging step count had a significant device main effect. Conclusions: There may be some conditions such as heart rate measurements taken while walking or step count measurements taken while jogging/running that may only require treadmill-based validity testing.
Nicotinamide riboside, an NAD+ precursor, attenuates the development of liver fibrosis in a diet-induced mouse model of liver fibrosis.

Abstract Objective Liver fibrosis is part of the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) spectrum, which currently has no approved pharmacological treatment. In this study, we investigated whether supplementation of nicotinamide riboside (NR), a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) precursor, can reduce the development of liver fibrosis in a diet-induced mouse model of liver fibrosis. Methods Male C57BL/6 J mice were fed a low-fat control (LF), a high-fat/high-sucrose/high-cholesterol control (HF) or a HF diet supplemented with NR at 400 mg/kg/day (HF-NR) for 20 weeks. Features of liver fibrosis were assessed by histological and biochemical analyses. Whole-body energy metabolism was also assessed using indirect calorimetry. Primary mouse and human hepatic stellate cells were used to determine the anti-fibrogenic effects of NR in vitro. Results NR supplementation significantly reduced body weight of mice only 7 weeks after mice were on the supplementation, but did not attenuate serum alanine aminotransferase levels, liver steatosis, or liver inflammation. However, NR markedly reduced collagen accumulation in the liver. RNA-Seq analysis suggested that the expression of genes involved in NAD+ metabolism is altered in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) compared to quiescent HSCs. NR inhibited the activation of HSCs in primary mouse and human HSCs. Indirect calorimetry showed that NR increased energy expenditure, likely by upregulation of β-oxidation in skeletal muscle and brown adipose tissue. Conclusion NR attenuated HSC activation, leading to reduced liver fibrosis in a diet-induced mouse model of liver fibrosis. The data suggest that NR may be developed as a potential preventative for human liver fibrosis.
Recent methods for diversification of bile acids and related steroids towards supramolecular

Bile acids (BAs) are a class of steroidal surfactants that have been studied as building blocks for constructing useful chemical frameworks. These starting materials have rigid structures with defined hydrophobic and hydrophilic faces, which promotes self-assembly in well-defined chemical architectures. The BA scaffolds can undergo a variety of transformations to introduce a range functionalities with practical applications. These functionalized derivatives have seen application in pharmacology, supramolecular chemistry, and nanotechnology in roles such as surfactants, gelators, drug conjugates, or chemical detectors. This review seeks to highlight recent synthetic methods utilizing BAs to construct useful chemical structures and their application in supramolecular chemistry.
Early Childhood Education in India: Promises, Policies, and Pitfalls

This chapter presents the socioeconomic-cultural-political context within which the fields of early childhood education (pre-primary education) and childhood education (primary education) have developed and expanded in India. The description includes how sociological factors such as caste, gender, religion, and language have historically impacted the education of children and how the current effects of globalization, westernization, and urbanization have been leading to socioeconomic changes in Indian society. A brief overview of the wide-ranging early childhood/childhood educational settings commonly available in India is followed by an examination of key policy reforms that directly impact early education including recent attempts to provide basic education to all children in the nation. The dire need to invest in early childhood teacher education and capacity building will also be discussed. The chapter will conclude by summarizing the current state of the field of early education in India, specific initiatives by states to improve the field, and the challenges it continues to confront from an economic and political climate that is increasingly favoring neoliberal globalization and privatization.
Extensor Mechanism Injury in Multiple Ligament Injured Knee

Patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon ruptures in the multiple ligament injured knee are an uncommon but important injury to diagnose. Acute fixation is generally accepted to be vital to improved clinical outcomes. The most common mechanism of injury is eccentric contraction of the quadriceps muscle against the weight of the body. This stress causes pathological tendons to rupture atraumatically, and as such many patients presenting with this injury have an underlying systemic illness which predisposes the tendon to rupture. Patients less than 40 are more likely to suffer a patellar tendon rupture, while patients older than 40 are more likely to rupture the quadriceps tendon. Classic physical exam findings include acute onset of knee pain, inability to extend the knee, and either a suprapatellar gap for quadriceps tendon rupture or infrapatellar gap for patellar tendon rupture. Diagnosis is aided by radiography as well as MRI which can diagnose associated intra-articular pathology. The anterior cruciate ligament is the most common ligamentous injury associated with patellar tendon ruptures.
Implications of Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Parkinson’s Disease: A Literature Review. (103)

Objective: To review the evidence showing an association between gut microbiome (GM) dysbiosis and Parkinson’s disease (PD), with an emphasis on the mechanisms by which GM dysbiosis may be involved in PD pathophysiology. Background: The GM plays an important role in the development and homeostasis of different body systems, including the central nervous system (CNS) via the gut-brain axis. Autopsy-based studies have demonstrated that α-synucleinopathy is not limited to the CNS but also affects the enteric nervous system (ENS) of PD patients. Moreover, gastrointestinal symptoms of PD predate motor symptoms. Accordingly, studies have looked at GM changes in PD, the consequences of these changes and their possible implications in PD pathophysiology. Design/Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed to identify studies that evaluated the differences between GM of PD patients and of healthy individuals. Also, studies that investigated the mechanisms by which GM changes might trigger or influence PD pathogenesis were reviewed. Results: There are significant changes in GM of PD patients as compared to that of healthy individuals, which cause decreased production of neuroprotective factors such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and ghrelin. Such changes also increase the release of bacterial neurotoxins including lipopolysaccharide, epoxomicin, and β-N-methylamino-L-alanine into the systemic circulation which might potentiate nigral dopaminergic degeneration given the disrupted blood-brain barrier in PD. Conclusions: GM changes might be related to the underlying pathophysiology of PD via different mechanisms. A better understanding of the consequences of GM changes, especially those taking place in the ENS and CNS, can help identify the key factors triggering α-synucleinopathy, and provide potential targets for clinical trials to test potential disease-modifying agents for PD including SCFA, probiotics, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha antagonists and recombinant ghrelin. Disclosure: Dr. Elfil has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kamel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kandil has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ahmed has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schaefer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Koo has nothing to disclose.
Bilateral oblique facial cleft.

While Cleft Lip and Palate deformity is relatively frequent oblique medical and lateral facial clefts are extremely rare. A Short Review of Literature and Method of Repair is described.
Fault Location Method Based on SVM and Similarity Model Matching

To locate the fault location accurately and solve the problem quickly is the key to improve the power supply capacity of power grid. This paper presents a fault location method based on SVM fault branch selection algorithm and similarity matching. Firstly, an SVM-based fault branch filter classifier was constructed based on the positive sequence component feature matrix data of each monitoring point, which can accurately select the branch where the current fault is located. Then, based on the positive sequence voltage distribution characteristics, the Euclidean distance and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) are used to establish the similarity objective function of fault location. And then, the fault is accurately located by the objective function. Finally, the proposed method is validated by using an IEEE-14 node network. The results show that the proposed method is effective and accurate.
Aerobic exercise improves hippocampal blood flow for hypertensive Apolipoprotein E4 carriers.

Cerebrovascular dysfunction likely contributes causally to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset AD, Apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4), may act synergistically with vas...
Herd Alarm Levels for Health, Reproductive, and Production Effects Based on Non-esterified Fatty Acid and Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Concentrations in Dairy Herds

Cows normally visit a state of negative energy balance (NEB) during the transition period in response to decreased dry matter intake and increased energy demands early in lactation. Energy balance is commonly measured with non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations, and several studies have shown that excessive NEB is associated with detrimental health, reproduction, and production effects at the cow-level. The objectives of this study were to determine the herd alarm level for the proportion of sampled cows with elevated metabolites resulting in herd-level effects, and to describe the herd-level prevalence of elevated metabolite concentrations.
Serratus Anterior Plane Block Versus Intercostal Block with Incision Infiltration in Robotic-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

Abstract Objectives : Patients undergoing robotic video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (rVATS) report significant post-operative pain. Both the serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) or the surgical intercostal block (IB) (performed by surgeon from within the thorax) along with incision infiltration (II) are distinct modalities that targets the lateral cutaneous branches of intercostal nerves and are acceptable analgesic modalities in an enhanced recovery after rVATS surgery. Design : Prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled pilot trial with 65 patients to assess the difference in analgesia quality between the SAPB and IB+II in rVATS. Setting : Major academic teaching hospital Participants : Our inclusion criterion included ASA physical status I-IV patients, ages 18 to 75 undergoing an elective, unilateral rVATS procedure. Interventions : Patients were randomized to receive either an ultrasound-guided SAPB at the end of their surgery using a 20 mL mixture consisting of 10ml of liposomal bupivacaine (133 mg) and 10ml 0.25% bupivacaine or IB+II using a 20 mL mixture consisting of 10ml of liposomal bupivacaine (133 mg) and 10ml 0.5% bupivacaine prior to skin closure by the surgeon. Results : The primary outcome was the amount of postoperative opioid consumption in morphine milliequivalents [MME] during the first 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes were time to first analgesic request, VAS scores at 0, 2, 6, 18, or 24 hours at rest, PACU, ICU, or hospital length of stay (LOS). There was no difference in any outcomes between the groups. Conclusions : Both SAPB and IB+II are comparable analgesic modalities for rVATS procedures.
Comparison of an immunologic and a toad test for pregnancy.

A comparison of an immunologic and a toad test for pregnancy is presented. 111 urine specimens submitted to the laboratory for pregnancy tests were examined. A high incidence (16%) of false-negative tests occurred with the immunologic technique compared with the toad test (5%). Urine from a patient being treated with the tranquilizer Chlorpromazine yielded a false-positive result by means of both methods suggesting excretion of a chorionic gonadotropinlike substance. It is concluded that the relative insensitivity of the immunologic method tested makes it unsatisfactory for clinical use unless a high level of excretion of hormone can be reasonably expected.
The challenge of operating in the new Europe

Suggests that one of the keys to success within the European dairy industry over the next decade will be the development of an ability to react quickly to change. Identifies the groupings within the industry as: industry drivers; industry agitators; and industry followers. Proposes strategies for survival and success for each grouping.
Copper sulfide precipitation by yeasts from Acid mine-waters.

Two strains of Rhodotorula and one of Trichosporon precipitated dissolved copper with H2S formed by reducing elemental sulfur with glucose. Iron stimulated this activity under certain conditions. In the case of Rhodotorula strain L, iron stimulated copper precipitation aerobically at a copper concentration of 18 but not 180 μg/ml. Anaerobically, the L strain required iron for precipitation of copper from a medium with 180 μg of copper per ml. Rhodotorula strain L was able to precipitate about five times as much copper anaerobically as aerobically. The precipitated copper was identified as copper sulfide, but its exact composition could not be ascertained. Iron was not precipitated by the H2S formed by any of the yeasts. Added as ferric iron, it was able to redissolve copper sulfide formed aerobically by Rhodotorula strain L from 18 but not 180 μg of copper per ml of medium. Since the yeasts were derived from acid mine-waters, their ability to precipitate copper may be of geomicrobial importance.
Classification of Fish Stock-Recruitment Relationships in Different Environmental Regimes by Fuzzy Logic with Bootstrap Re-sampling Approach

The analysis of stock-recruitment (SR) relationships is a basic step in developing and evaluating fishery policies, such as establishing optimal escapement goals for salmon or optimal size of spawning stocks at maximum sustainable yield (MSY). Traditional SR analyses assume that there is a functional relationship between the size of the stock spawning biomass and the biomass of fish that recruit in the future. Numerous models have been discussed for this functional relationship. A comprehensive summary can be found from Ricker (1975), Hilborn and Walters (1992) and Quinn and Deriso (1999).
Modulation technique for sensitive magneto-optical detection of magnetic fields

A technique for magneto-optical detection of weak magnetic fields using Bi:YIG thin films is described. Results showing typical detected fields of 8 nT are presented.
Listening and Believing: An Examination of Young People's Perceptions of Why They Are Not Believed by Professionals When They Report Abuse and Neglect.

This article explores commonly held perceptions by young people as to why they are sometimes not believed by practitioners when reporting potential or actual instances of abuse or neglect. Using original data gained from telephone, individual and group interviews with over a hundred young people a ‘typology of disbelief’ was constructed and is here presented for consideration. By drawing attention to a range of perceptions frequently articulated by young people, it is hoped to increase understanding of the problems they may face when attempting to disclose abuse and neglect. © 2010 The Author(s). Journal compilation 2010 National Children’s Bureau and Blackwell Publishing Limited.
Role of activation in alveolar macrophage-mediated suppression of the plaque-forming cell response.

Alveolar macrophages (AM) are highly suppressive of the in vitro plaque-forming cell (PFC) response of spleen cells obtained from mice primed with sheep erythrocytes. Comparison of macrophage populations obtained from disparate anatomical sites revealed that although in both cases there was a cell-concentration-dependent suppression of the PFC response, resident AM or AM activated as a result of intravenous injection of Mycobacterium bovis BCG were equally suppressive at the doses examined. Although there was a similar dose-dependent suppression with peritoneal macrophages, BCG-activated cells were more suppressive of the PFC response than were resident cells. In contrast, splenic macrophages at comparable concentrations were not at all suppressive. Resident AM exhibited significantly lower levels of 5'-nucleotidase activity than did resident peritoneal macrophages. Macrophage-mediated suppression of the in vitro PFC response could not be attributed to the release of toxic oxygen metabolites (H2O2, O2- ,and .OH) or prostaglandins, since the addition of catalase, superoxide dismutase, 2-mercaptoethanol, or indomethacin did not completely reverse suppression. These results suggest that the lung microenvironment may maintain AM in an activated state which contributes to their potential immunoregulatory functions.
The inhibitory effects of indomethacin, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, and pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate on ovulation and prostaglandin synthesis in yellow perch (Perca flavescens) follicle incubates

Abstract This study specifically determined the correlation between ovulation and ovarian prostaglandin F (PGF) and prostaglandin E (PGE) levels in yellow perch follicles treated with several eicosanoid synthesis inhibitors. In incubates treated with indomethacin (IM; .00001 to 10.0 μg/ml) there was a significant dose-dependent correlation between ovulation and PGF/PGE levels, and between the two prostaglandins (PGs), further implicating PGs in the control of yellow perch ovulation. In incubates treated with nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), a traditional lipoxygenase inhibitor, there was a significant correlation between ovulation and PGF levels, yet there was no correlation between PGE levels and ovulation. A free-radical scavenger, pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) inhibited ovulation in a dose-dependent manner yet there was no correlation between either PGF or PGE levels and this inhibition, indicating that PDTC may block ovulation at other steps that involve free-radicals.
The effects of ambiguity, familiarization, age and sex on stimulus preference.

Abstract On the basis of Berlyne's theory it was hypothesized that individuals would spend more time looking at ambiguous than at unambiguous stimuli. It was also hypothesized that younger children would look longer at ambiguous stimuli than older Ss and that males would be more curious than females in terms of looking behavior. Forty-five Ss were used, 15 each from a second grade classroom, a sixth grade classroom, and an introductory general psychology course. Results indicated that ambiguous stimulus patterns on the average did elicit significantly longer-looking behavior than their unambiguous counterparts across all three age levels. However, highly significant interactions indicated the interpretation of this finding should be made relative to specific factors, namely age, sex and familiarization. It was concluded that previous explanations of visual exploration or stimulus preference have been oversimplified, and studies on the whole have failed to take into account a crucial interaction between age and sex variables. Moreover, the results suggest an optimal age period during which individuals explore ambiguous stimuli to a maximal extent. Under the conditions of this study, the data indicated that females may reach the optimal period at a later time in their development than males.
Anaplastic and sarcomatoid carcinoma of the small intestine: a clinicopathologic study.

Abstract Carcinomas involving the jejunum and ileum are rare tumors. During a review of small intestinal neoplasms, six primary carcinomas of jejunum or ileum with an anaplastic and sarcomatoid histology were identified. At presentation, three of the patients had symptoms related to metastatic disease and three had symptoms referable to the local tumor. The tumors were large (>4.5 cm in diameter), usually endophytic masses composed of large cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm, anaplastic nuclei, and prominent nucleoli. In many areas, the cells had a spindled configuration. Mucin positivity was identified in all six cases. Electron microscopic findings in two cases were indicative of epithelial differentiation. The tumors behaved aggressively; all five patients for whom there was clinical follow-up died of metastases within 40 months. The six anaplastic and sarcomatoid carcinomas were compared with 29 typical adenocarcinomas arising in the jejunum or ileum. Only two of the latter group had symptoms referable to distant metastases at presentation. These tumors also tended to be smaller at presentation (11 tumors were
Impact of neutropenic complications on short-term disability in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy.

AbstractObjectives: The study examined the impact of chemotherapy-induced neutropenic complications (CINC), defined as neutropenia with fever or infection, on short-term disability (STD) among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.Methods: The key outcome metrics were average monthly STD days and associated indirect costs. Patients with and without CINC were propensity score (PS) matched. Multivariate regressions were conducted on PS-matched cohorts to estimate the marginal impact of CINC.Results: A total of 280 patients with CINC were PS-matched to 280 patients without CINC. Compared with matched patients, patients with CINC on average experienced 0.9 more STD day (3.2 vs. 2.3, p=0.046) and $155 more in indirect costs ($549 vs. 394, p=0.050) per month. After multivariate adjustment, patients with CINC experienced 1.0 more STD day (p=0.029), and incurred $200 more in indirect cost (p=0.016) per month.Conclusions: Patients with CINC experience significantly greater STD leave than patients with no neutrope...
A New Scoring System for Evaluating the Risk of Heart Failure Events in Japanese Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

Risk stratification for heart failure (HF) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been well established. The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of HF events in patients with AF, consequently developing a new risk-scoring system that stratifies the risk for HF events. In this prospective, single hospital-based cohort, all patients who presented from July 2004 to March 2010 were registered (Shinken Database 2004-2009). Follow-up was maintained by being linked to the medical records or by sending study documents of prognosis. Of the 13,228 patients in the Shinken Database 2004-2009, 1,942 patients with AF were identified. Of the patients with AF, HF events (hospitalization or death from HF) occurred in 147 patients (7.6%) during a mean follow-up period of 776 ± 623 days. After identifying the parameters that were independently associated with the incidence of HF events (coexistence of organic heart diseases, anemia [hemoglobin level <11 g/dl], renal dysfunction [estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/m(2)], diabetes mellitus, and the use of diuretics), a new scoring system was developed, the H(2)ARDD score (heart diseases = 2 points, anemia = 1 point, renal dysfunction = 1 point, diabetes = 1 point, and diuretic use = 1 point; range 0 to 6 points). This scoring system discriminated the low- and high-risk populations well (incidence in patients scoring 0 and 6 points of 0.2% and 40.8% per patient-year, respectively) and showed high predictive ability (area under the curve 0.840, 95% confidence interval 0.803 to 0.876). In conclusion, the new H(2)ARDD score may help identify the population of patients with AF at high risk for HF events.
Acoustic characterization of the question-statement contrast in 4, 7 and 11 year-old children

Prosodic features of the speech signal include fundamental frequency (F0), intensity and duration. In order to study the development of prosody independent from segmental aspects of speech, we considered the question–statement contrast. In English, adults mark the contrast using changes in fundamental frequency, duration and intensity, with F0 being the most prominent cue. Declarative questions are marked by rising intonation whereas statements are marked by falling intonation. While previous studies have noted that young children can signal this contrast in imitative paradigms, little is known about the acoustic cues children use at different stages in development. The present study sought to provide an acoustic characterization of prosodic cues used by 12 children from three age groups, 4-year-olds, 7-year-olds and 11-year-olds, for elicited productions of declarative statements and questions. Results indicated that 4-year-olds were unable to reliably signal questions using rising fundamental frequency contour. Instead, they used increased final syllable duration to mark questions. Children in the 7-year-old group used all three cues, fundamental frequency, intensity and syllable duration, to contrast questions from statements. The oldest group relied primarily on changes in fundamental frequency and less so on intensity and duration cues. An age-related pattern is evident in that children employ different combinations of acoustic cues to mark the question–statement contrast across development. The impact of motor and cognitive-linguistic complexity on the development of prosodic control is discussed. 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Genetic Restriction of Energy Conservation in Schizophyllum

A genetically determined malfunction of energy conservation reduces assimilation of substrate to half or less its normal level while leaving oxidative processes apparently unchanged. This metabolic defect, which differs in many ways from any previously described, is related to the function of the B incompatibility factor and occurs both in the common A heterokaryon (A = B ≠)— in which two compatible, wild B factors interact—and in mutant -B homokaryons.
Differences between the Optical/Ultraviolet Spectra of X-Ray Bright and X-Ray Faint QSOs

We contrast measurements of composite optical and ultraviolet (UV) spectra constructed from samples of QSOs defined by their soft X-ray brightness. X-ray bright (XB) composites show stronger emission lines in general, but particularly from the narrow-line region. The difference in the [O III]/Hβ ratio is particularly striking, and is even more so when blended Fe II emission is properly subtracted. The correlation of this ratio with X-ray brightness was a principal component of QSO spectral diversity found by Boroson & Green. We find here that other, much weaker narrow optical forbidden lines ([O II] and [Ne V]) are enhanced by factors of 2 to 3 in our XB composites, and that narrow line emission is also strongly enhanced in the XB UV composite. Broad permitted-line fluxes are slightly larger for all XB spectra, but the narrow-/broad-line ratio stays similar or increases strongly with X-ray brightness for all strong permitted lines except Hβ. Spectral differences between samples divided by their relative X-ray brightness (as measured by αox) exceed those seen between complementary samples divided by luminosity or radio loudness. We propose that the Baldwin effect may be a secondary correlation to the primary relationship between αox and emission line equivalent width. We conclude that either (1) Wλ depends primarily on the shape of the ionizing continuum, as crudely characterized here by αox, or (2) both Wλ and αox are related to some third parameter characterizing the QSO physics. One such possibility is intrinsic warm absorption; a soft X-ray absorber situated between the broad and narrow line regions can successfully account for many of the properties observed.
A Challenge to the Profession

The value of management science is derived from the ability of its professionals to develop scientific knowledge that may be useful to management. This development does not occur in a vacuum. The continued health of the profession requires a viable information system involving the members of both the academic and business communities. The publications of this institute are important elements in this communication process. In an attempt to establish a dialogue involving the membership of this institute, I am presenting several observations on the factors that define the contents of our journals. In addition, I am including a specific proposal for modifying those factors.
Bedside colonoscopy in intensive care units: indications, techniques, and outcomes.

Background Colonoscopy performed in critically ill patients is poorly documented in the literature. The clinical setting is completely different from routine outpatient colonoscopy with different aims and techniques. We proposed to examine the role of urgent colonoscopy in critically ill patients.
Edible oil quality as measured by thermal release of pentane

As part of their thermal decomposition products, fatty hydroperoxides produce normal hydrocarbons. The extent of hydrocarbon formation can be measured and associated with the quality and potential stability of an oil. Edible oils containing linoleic acid develop 13-hydroperoxy-9,11-octadecadienoic acid as one product of autoxidation. On thermal decomposition this hydroperoxide yields pentane; the amount released has been correlated with the flavor scores of fresh and aged soybean and cottonseed oils and with the peroxide values of these oils. The quantity of pentane released has an inverse linear relationship to flavor score and a direct linear relationship to peroxide values. Edible oils exposed to light exhibit a different relationship between flavor score and thermally derived pentane than do the same oils when autoxidized in the dark.
Dance program for physical rehabilitation and participation in children with cerebral palsy

Objective: This pilot study aimed to examine a classical ballet program created for children with cerebral palsy (CP) as an emerging physical rehabilitation modality. The main program goals were to promote participation and to provide an artistic, physically therapeutic activity. Methods: The study was conducted in collaboration with a tertiary rehabilitation hospital, one outpatient physical therapy clinic, and one community center. As a pilot exploratory study, the research design included questionnaires to assess the participants' (children (n = 16), parents (n = 16), and therapists (n = 13)) perceptions on the therapeutic benefit of the dance program. A binomial statistical model was adopted for the analysis of the results. Results: Main results were that the children reported high enjoyment level (p < .0001) and desire for more classes (.0001); the parents reported perceived therapeutic benefit (p < .0001); and the therapists viewed the class as a positive adjunct to therapy (p < .0001). Conclusions: The main limitation of this work was the utilization of subjective outcome measures. However, this is the first step toward the development of objective measures of an intervention that, to our knowledge, has not been analyzed in the past. We conclude that the program has the potential of developing into an evidence based rehabilitation resource for children with CP.
Studies of central functional equivalence—I Time-varying distribution of power in discrete frequency bands of the egg as a function of drug exposure

Long-term recordings of the spontaneous EEG were made in Macaco mulattu monkeys with chronically implanted epidural electrodes. Power spectra were computed for 34-min segments of 4-sec continuous epochs over a bandwidth of 0.25–64.0 Hz with 0.25 Hz resolution. While analysis of ensemble spectral averages showed differences between a wide range of psychotropic agents, the examination of the time course of spectral changes, especially within certain discrete spectral bands, permitted distinctions between agents with mainly sedative or anxiolytic properties. Sedatives (e.g. glutethimide, amobarbital and meprobamate) produced their greatest energy increase in high-frequency bands (16–64 Hz) and the state was stable. In contrast, anxiolytic agents (e.g. chlordiazepoxide and clonazepam) showed energy increases of lesser magnitude only in lower frequency bands (8–32 Hz) and less state stability in those bands. Agents with mixed pharmacological effects (e.g. clorazepate and nitrazepam) produced mixed effects on the EEG spectra with this type of analysis.
Microwave remote sensing of a two-layer random medium

A two-variable expansion technique is used to solve for the mean Green's function from the Dyson equation under the nonlinear approximation. The Bethe-Salpeter equation then gives rise to a set of modified radiative transfer (MRT) equations which accommodate coherent effects essential to bounded media. It is found that the nonlinear approximation, instead of the more popular bilocal approximation, should be used for the case of bounded media. The two approximations yield identical results for unbounded media. The MRT equations are then solved for a two-layer random medium. The MRT equations give rise to simple and useful solutions which are applicable to both active and passive microwave remote sensing.
Reducing death on the road: the effects of minimum safety standards, publicized crash tests, seat belts, and alcohol.

OBJECTIVES. Two phases of attempts to improve passenger car crash worthiness have occurred: minimum safety standards and publicized crash tests. This study evaluated these attempts, as well as changes in seat belt and alcohol use, in terms of their effect on occupant death and fatal crash rates. METHODS. Data on passenger car occupant fatalities and total involvement in fatal crashes, for 1975 through 1991, were obtained from the Fatal Accident Reporting System. Rates per mile were calculated through published sources on vehicle use by vehicle age. Regression estimates of effects of regulation, publicized crash tests, seat belt use and alcohol involvement were obtained. RESULTS. Substantial reductions in fatalities occurred in the vehicle model years from the late 1960s through most of the 1970s, when federal standards were applied. Some additional increments in reduced death rates, attributable to additional improved vehicle crashworthiness, occurred during the period of publicized crash tests. Increased seat belt use and reduced alcohol use also contributed significantly to reduced deaths. CONCLUSIONS. Minimum safety standards, crashworthiness improvements, seat belt use laws, and reduced alcohol use each contributed to a large reduction in passenger car occupant deaths.
Cardiac assessment in childhood carriers of Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies

Cardiac disease in adult female carriers of the X-linked dystrophinopathies, Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies, is a well-recognised entity. A single study has reported a 15% incidence of cardiac abnormalities in female carriers under 16 years. Our study aims, clinically and with electrocardiograph and echocardiograph, to determine the incidence of cardiac abnormality in young girls who are proven carriers of X-linked dystrophinopathies. Twenty-three girls aged 6.2-15.9 years were assessed. All had normal cardiac examination. None had electrocardiograph abnormalities consistent with dystrophic cardiomyopathy. Left ventricular fractional shortening ranged from 33 to 55% (normal>28%). Septal thickness, posterior wall thickness and wall thickness ratio were within normal limits. No cardiac abnormalities have been demonstrated in young girls who are proven carriers of X-linked dystrophinopathies in our study. This has important implications for planning timing of carrier determination and cardiac assessment.
The Dynamics of Economic Disadvantage and Children's Life Chances

Recent research suggests that child well-being and subsequent status attainment are influenced not only by the duration of exposure to economic disadvantage during childhood, but also by the timing and sequencing of exposure. Unfortunately, traditional measures of children's economic deprivation typically fail to differentiate between exposures to disadvantage at different stages in childhood and largely ignore how economic circumstances change over time. In this article, the authors propose a new method for assessing economic disadvantage during childhood that simultaneously captures children's overall levels of exposure to economic disadvantage as well as the timing and sequencing of their exposure. This new method uses finite mixture modeling to classify children into a limited number of classes with similar histories of exposure to economic disadvantage. With this new methodology, it is possible both to assess how family characteristics affect patterns of exposure to disadvantage and to directly test ...
Diffusion of [2-14C]diazepam across isolated hairless mouse stratum corneum/epidermal tissues

Abstract The objective of this study was to develop a method of preparing mouse stratum corneum/epidermal (SCE) tissue without the dermis for use in drug diffusion studies. The diffusion of radiolabeled diazepam across this new preparation has been studied and the effect of the dermis on diffusion evaluated. Incubation of large pieces of mouse skin in a 20mM EDTA, 15mM sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.2, in normal saline for 3–4 h at 37°C resulted in a tissue which easily separated at the epidermal-dermal junction. The resulting tissue contains stratum corneum and epidermis, which are the same layers used in studies with human skin in vitro. The EDTA treatment did not effect diffusion of [2− 14 c]diazepam across whole mouse skin (SCE and dermis) used as controls. The rate of drug diffusion was greater across SCE than SCE and dermis, however, 0.48–1.12μg/cm 2 /h versus 0.11–0.52μg/cm/h, respectively. The permeability coefficients for mouse SCE ranged from 1.92–4.48 × 10 −2 cm/h. The lag times and diffusion coefficients were 0.36–0.91 h and 0.1–0.6 × 10 −6 cm 2 /h, respectively. The presence of the dermis decreased the diffusion rate or flux of diazepam. The dermis appears to accumulate drug until it is saturated and then the drug diffuses into the receiving chamber.
Dynamic relaxation behavior of solvent‐crystallized poly(ether ether ketone)

The dynamic relaxation behavior of solvent-crystallized poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) has been investigated in the region of the glass-rubber (α) relaxation using dynamic mechanical and dielectric methods. Amorphous PEEK films were exposed to saturated methylene chloride and acetone vapor, with solvent-induced crystallization observed for both penetrants. Sample desorption at elevated temperatures (under vacuum) resulted in virtually complete removal of residual penetrant, thus providing for the measurement of relaxation characteristics independent of plasticization. Both dynamic mechanical and dielectric studies indicated a marked positive offset in the isochronal relaxation temperatures of the solvent-crystallized samples relative to thermally crystallized specimens of comparable bulk crystallinity, and a higher apparent activation energy in the solvent-crystallized case. These results are consistent with the evolution of a tighter crystalline morphology (i.e., smaller crystal long spacing) in the solvent-crystallized samples, the crystallites imposing a greater degree of constraint on the long-range motions of the amorphous chains inherent to the glass-rubber relaxation. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Chemotaxonomy of the genus Abies—II : Within tree variation of the terpenes in cortical oleoresin☆

Abstract The variation of the cortical terpene composition along the stem of eleven trees belonging to four Abies species was examined by GLC methods. The changes appeared to be the greatest in the youngest part of the stem, before the resin-containing blisters are externally visible. In practically all cases, the systematic variations in the blistered part of the stem were rather small, and in older trees approached the order of magnitude of experimental error. In composition the leaf terpenes were fairly similar to the terpenes from cortex, although in some cases definite differences were apparent. Practically no seasonal change in the terpene composition was observed.
Analytical methodology applicable in dissolution testing of norethindrone-mestranol tablets

Abstract Simple and sensitive methodology to monitor the dissolution rate of norethindrone-mestranol combination tablets has been developed. The procedure calls for the direct injection of the dissolution medium onto a reverse-phase column and for the monitoring of the eluent serially with ultraviolet and fluorescence detectors. Applicability of the method was demonstrated by carrying out dissolution studies of a combination product in de-aerated water and 30% isopropanol/water.
Impurity transport in the divertor of the Alcator C-Mod tokamak

Abstract Argon has been injected into the private flux zone of the Alcator C-Mod divertor and its transport into the confined plasma studied. The injected gas pulse lasts for about 200 ms, but the impurity concentration increases to an equilibrium level and remains there for ∼ 200 ms. It is clear that the argon is acting as a recycling impurity. Nevertheless it has been observed that less than 0.5% of the injected atoms reach the confined plasma and that the percentage decreases with increasing plasma density. The good impurity screening is discussed in terms of the ionisation mean free path in the divertor.
Alternating phase-shift masks for contact patterning

The use of alternating phase shift masks (Alt-PSMs) for poly gate patterning is becoming a well-established method for reducing gate critical dimension (CD) and variability. The application of alt-PSM for other device layers and for improving resolution (minimum pitch) is less developed due to more complex layouts, more stringent mask constraints and cost of ownership restrictions. Resolution of contact pairs and nested contacts is found to be improved using alt-PSM compared to embedded PSMs (EPSMs). To improve the process window of semi-nested and isolated contacts, sub-resolution phase-shifted assist features are employed on the mask. Square assist features, rather than rectangular assist features, are used to reduce mask fabrication requirements as one can use a larger minimum assist feature dimension. Because of high mask error enhancement factors (MEEFs), assist features with dimensions as large as 75% of the nominal contact size can be used without patterning on the wafer. Compared to using alt-PSM for poly gate patterning the use of alt-PSM for tight pitch patterning places additional constraints on mask manufacturing. The smaller phase regions intrinsic to tight pitch patterning result in tighter phase uniformity and mask defect requirements.
On the dependence of the functions of state of a deformable body on the measure of rotation

We show that the measures of strain and initial values of vector and tensor state parameters are divided into subjective nonrotational and objective rotational. Representations of the functions of state are divided in a similar way, and only objective ones do not depend explicitly on the measure of rotation of material axes. We have constructed relations for the reduction of rotation-free differentials of the functions of state to expressions in terms of the tensors of infinitesimal strain and rotation. On this basis, we have obtained objective representations for stress tensor in terms of the derivatives of the state potential of an anisotropic material. The results obtained concern the nonlinear mechanics of initially stressed bodies.
Gas sorption studies on Zeolite Y membrane materials for post-combustion CO2 capture in coal-fired plants

Abstract Recent achievements of supported Zeolite Y membranes with high CO 2 permeance and selectivity have raised interest in their use for cost-effective capture of CO 2 from flue gas of traditional coal power plants. The high CO 2 selectivity rests upon a combination of size exclusion, induced by CO 2 sorption on the micro-pore windows, and competitive diffusion that is largely in favor of CO 2 . This effect is strongly dependent on CO 2 sorption which, in turn, depends on temperature, pressure and the presence of H 2 O. This paper summarizes recent pertaining sorption studies. Membrane activation and transport behavior is derived from sorption transient and CO 2 –H 2 O exchange studies. A preliminary interpretation points towards important and possibly prohibitive interference of H 2 O, and preferential transport through structural imperfections.
Determination of ionization constants of heterocyclic aromatic amines using capillary zone electrophoresis

Abstract Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) is a very convenient technique for the determination of ionization constants. The technique is rapid, precise, uses small quantities of solute, and the exact concentration of the compound is not needed. This work represents the first report on the ionization constants of eight heterocyclic aromatic amines: 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5- b ]pyridine, 2-amino-9H-pyrido[2,3- b ]indole, 3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3- b ]indole acetate, 2-amino-3-methyl-3H-imidazo[4,5- f ]quinoline, 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5- f ]quinoxaline, 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5- f ]quinoxaline, 2-amino-3,4,7,8-tetramethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5- f ]quinoxaline and 9-H-pyrido[4,3- b ]indole. The ionization constants determined using CZE were confirmed with independent determinations by ultraviolet spectrometry.
Fine structure of lily pollen tubes following various fixation and staining procedures.

The cytoplasm of the growth zone at the tip of theLilium pollen tube contains numerous membrane-bound vesicles and an abundance of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Covering the tip of the tube is a cap of compartmentalized wall material which arises from coalesence of vesicles with each other and with the existing cap.
Effects associated with on- and off-label stimulant treatment of core autism and ADHD symptoms exhibited by children with autism spectrum disorder.

Objective: Families of children with autism spectrum disorder are barraged by different treatment options. Some of these options have the support of empirical evidence while others do not. Stimulant treatments are typically utilized to treat symptoms of ADHD indicating an on-label use of such treatment. Methods: This study examines the association of stimulant treatment with the on- (symptoms of ADHD) and off- (symptoms of ASD) label symptoms among children with ASD via a non-clinical, population-based sample. Results: Results indicate no significant association of stimulant treatment with a reduction of on- or off-label symptoms among children with ASD. Conclusion: Stimulant medications utilized in the treatment of DSM core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder would be considered an off-label use because there is limited evidence to support that stimulants are effective in treating core symptoms of ASD, which is supported by the results of the current study.