cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Global English infiltrates Bulgaria

Following his article ‘Global English invades Poland’ (ET50, Apr 97, Vol 13.2), the author explores the comparable impact of English on advertising in a second Eastern European nation.Global English continues its unchecked spread, not only as the second language of choice for more people than any other, but also as an infiltrator whose words creep into the fabric of other languages through such avenues as film, television, popular music, the World Wide Web, advertising and youth culture.
L-Tryptophan's effects on brain chemistry and sleep in cats and rats: a review

In this review I shall discuss published and unpublished work from my laboratory dealing with L-tryptophan's effects on brain monoamines and sleep in cats and rats. From our work it appears that normal animals may not be suitable subjects for testing sleep-inducing effect of tryptophan since their slow-wave sleep (SWS) latency is relatively short. In polyphasic sleepers like cats, we did not observe tryptophan's hypnotic effect with any dosage used (10, 30 or 135 mg/kg). However, we found small, but statistically significant, sleep-inducing effect of tryptophan (30 mg/kg, IP) in normal rats. We have tried, therefore, to create insomniac cats with long sleep latencies by using methysergide, a serotonin receptor blocker. The results show that in insomniac cats hypnotic effect of tryptophan, a precursor to brain serotonin, was observed. It involved not only reduction of sleep latencies but also an increase in SWS. It seems likely that tryptophan's partial reversal of methysergide's effect in cats occurred via a dual mechanism of serotonergic activation and catecholaminergic deactivation, while its sleep-inducing effect in normal rats may have been due to the attenuation of the activity of brain catecholamines.
The effects of constant and fluctuating incubation temperatures on sex determination, growth, and performance in the tortoise Gopherus polyphemus

Temperature-dependent sex determination is one of the best documented yet evolutionarily enigmatic sex-determining systems. The classical theoretical framework suggests that temperature-dependent s...
Gated SPECT perfusion imaging for the simultaneous assessment of myocardial perfusion and ventricular function in the BARI 2D trial: An initial report from the Nuclear Core Laboratory

Background The BARI 2D (Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation 2 Diabetes) trial, a National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute–sponsored study in type 2 diabetic patients with coronary artery disease, completed patient recruitment in March 2005. This trial had a nuclear substudy in addition to many other substudies. Methods and Results After patient enrollment, adenosine gated single photon emission computed tomography perfusion imaging is performed at years 1 and 3. The images are interpreted at the core laboratory. Among the objectives of the nuclear substudy are (1) to determine the impact of the mode of therapy on left ventricular function, extent of ischemia, and scar; (2) to determine the impact of therapy on the progression/regression of ischemia/scar and changes in left ventricular function between years 1 and 3; and (3) to determine the independent and incremental prognostic value of ischemia, scar, and left ventricular function on the primary and secondary endpoints of the trial in the entire patient population and specified subgroups such as women, elderly patients, and minorities. Conclusions This article describes the methodology and the initial experience of the nuclear core laboratory in this large multicenter trial and provides a summary of variables that are available for future analysis by the working group.
Prevalence of visual symptoms among patients with newly diagnosed cytomegalovirus retinitis.

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence and type of visual symptoms among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients with newly diagnosed cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. METHODS: The authors conducted a retrospective review of the charts of all HIV type 1-infected patients at Parkland Memorial Hospital (Dallas, TX) who had newly diagnosed CMV retinitis between July 1, 1993, and September 30, 1997. Information recorded included demographics, results of laboratory evaluations including CD4 cell count, visual symptoms at the time of diagnosis, and the zone and extent of retinal involvement at presentation. Visual symptoms in the patients with CMV retinitis were compared with those in a control group of HIV-positive patients who were screened for CMV retinitis but were not diagnosed with retinitis. RESULTS: Of 183 eyes (138 patients), 83% (88% of patients) had visual symptoms at the time of diagnosis. The most common presenting symptoms were blurred vision (67% of patients), floaters (49%), flashes of light (16%), eye pain (7%), and scotomata (3%). Compared with the control group of patients without CMV retinitis, patients with CMV retinitis were more likely to have any eye symptoms (88% versus 53%, respectively) as well as blurred vision, floaters, and either blurred vision or floaters (P 0.05). Patients with zone 1 disease were more likely to note blurred or decreased vision than were patients with zone 2 or 3 disease (75% versus 47%, respectively; P 25% retinal involvement (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Most HIV-infected patients with newly diagnosed CMV retinitis had visual symptoms at presentation regardless of the zone of retinal involvement. The incidence of visual symptoms correlated with the degree of retinal involvement.
Quaestio Disputata: Catholic Theology and the History of Exegesis:

The author argues that it is important for systematic theologians to join the conversation between exegetes and those who investigate the history of exegesis. To demonstrate what might be gained from such an intersection of disciplines, she explores the work of some ressourcement theologians such as de Lubac, Danielou, Bouyer, and others, all of whom discussed the allegorical and typological exegesis of the Church Fathers and attempted to bring it into harmony with the historical-critical interpretation of the Bible.
The interaction of serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms and early adverse life events on vulnerability for major depression

Considerable literature supports the hypothesis of dysfunction in central nervous system serotonergic circuits in the pathophysiology of mood disorders, specifically major depression. Since the development of the selective serotonin (5-HT) reuptake inhibitors, a putative role for the 5-HT transporter (SERT) in the etiology of depression has been explored. The discovery of a functional SERT polymorphism has provided a novel tool to further scrutinize the role of serotonergic neurons in depression. This article reviews the burgeoning evidence of an interaction between early life stress and an SERT polymorphism on vulnerability to depression.
Effects of inescapable shock in the rat: Learned helplessness or response competition

A new procedure for alleviating the effects of inescapable shock (preshock) on subsequent learning was attempted. It consisted of introducing trials in a straight alley between preshock and escape/avoidance learning designed to countercondition an approach response to fear cues. The success of the procedure in reducing the interference effect supported a response-competition interpretation of the effect. However, performance of a control group that received only preshock led to consideration of other explanations of the results.
Optimal Design and Experimental Validation of Compliant Mechanical Amplifiers for Piezoceramic Stack Actuators

An optimization method has been developed for design of compliant mechanical amplifiers for piezoceramic stack actuators. A topology optimization approach is used where the objective is to maximize the stroke amplification, and results show good algorithm convergence and good mechanism performance. The focus of this paper is on using the optimal topology solution to generate a solid model, and on improving the actuator performance through detail design and analysis of the resulting monolithic compliant mechanical amplifiers. A study of the effect of various flexure hinge configurations and other design parameters on the amplification and mechanical advantage of an actuator is performed. Another actuator with a large stroke amplification is designed using a batch of random starting points to the optimization algorithm. Prototype actuators have been fabricated, and the results of experimental validations are presented.
Continuous-flow biomolecule concentration and detection in a slanted nanofilter array.

We demonstrate continuous-flow biomolecule concentration and detection in a microfabricated slanted sieving structure, which we term a herringbone nanofilter array (HNA). The HNA structure consists of periodically-patterned deep and shallow nanoslits meeting at right angles. In addition to concentration, we can discriminate different sized analytes by mixing a fluorescent probe with the sample and measuring the extent of the concentrating effect. Using this principle, we interrogate biomolecular interactions, including protein–DNA binding, protein–protein interaction and antibody–antigen binding. The final example demonstrates a novel method to perform a homogeneous immunoassay for detecting a disease marker, human C-reactive protein (CRP), using fluorescent-labeled antibodies at clinically relevant concentrations. The signal amplification potential and continuous flow operation provide a significant advantage over other microfluidic batch separation techniques for the easy integration of this device into a common point-of-care diagnostic platform.
∆FosB: A transcriptional regulator of stress and antidepressant responses

ΔFosB is a member of the Fos family of transcription factors. While other family members are induced rapidly but transiently in response to a host of acute stimuli, ΔFosB is unique in that it accumulates in response to repeated stimulation due to its unusual protein stability. Such prolonged induction of ΔFosB, within nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key brain reward region, has been most studied in animal models of drug addiction, with considerable evidence indicating that ΔFosB promotes reward and motivation and serves as a mechanism of drug sensitization and increased drug self-administration. In more recent years, prolonged induction of ∆FosB has also been observed within NAc in response to chronic administration of certain forms of stress. Increasing evidence indicates that this induction represents a positive, homeostatic adaptation to chronic stress, since overexpression of ∆FosB in this brain region promotes resilience to stress, whereas blockade of its activity promotes stress susceptibility. Chronic administration of several antidepressant medications also induces ∆FosB in the NAc, and this induction is required for the therapeutic-like actions of these drugs in mouse models. Validation of these rodent findings is the demonstration that depressed humans, examined at autopsy, display reduced levels of ∆FosB within the NAc. As a transcription factor, ΔFosB produces this behavioral phenotype by regulating the expression of specific target genes, which are under current investigation. These studies of ΔFosB are providing new insight into the molecular basis of depression and antidepressant action, which is defining a host of new targets for possible therapeutic development.
Pleistocene History of Globigerina Pachyderma (Ehrenberg) in Site 36, Deep-Sea Drilling Project, Northeastern Pacific: ABSTRACT

Sinistral Globigerina pachyderma (Ehrenberg) appears for the first time in the Deep-Sea Drilling Project site-36 section in the lower Pleistocene. The location of this site, 40°59.08^primeN lat., is within the Holocene transitional faunal zone for planktonic Foraminifera. From scattered occurrences in the lower Pleistocene sediments, this species gradually increases in abundance until, midway in the Pleistocene, it becomes a predominant element. This indicates that the boundary between the subpolar and the transitional water masses did not shift over the site-36 location until mid-Pleistocene time, thus bringing in subpolar faunas for the first time. The proportion of left-coiling forms to right-coiling forms is not always diagnostic in identifying cold cycles, nor d es it apparently give very good diagnostic data on the intensity of cold cycles. Ontogenetic growth analyses on Pliocene dextral and sinistral forms often referred to as G. pachyderma by workers indicates that there is a fundamental difference between these forms and the sinistral G. pachyderma of the Pleistocene and Holocene. They are placed in Globorotalia pseudopachyderma Cita. Permoli Silva, and Rossi. Whether the sinistral form of this species was adapted to subpolar conditions is uncertain, and, in fact, some populations of this form seem to have lived in warmer waters than the dextral populations. End_of_Article - Last_Page 798------------
Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Protects Control Rats but Not Ethanol-Fed Rats from Fatal Pneumococcal Pneumonia

A model of chronic ethanol ingestion was used to study the effects of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) on the pathogenesis of pneumococcal pneumonia in intoxicated rats. G-CSF or 5% dextrose in water (D5W) was administered subcutaneously to ethanol-fed and pair-fed control rats on days 6 and 7 of pair feeding. Rats were infected transtracheally with type 3 Streptococcus pneumoniae on day 8. In pair-fed control rats, G-CSF significantly increased the total number and percentage of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) in the peripheral blood (P < .001), augmented PMNL recruitment to infected lungs (P < .01), and significantly increased survival from pneumococcal pneumonia (P = .01). In contrast, treatment of ethanol-fed rats with G-CSF did not enhance pulmonary PMNL delivery and did not increase survival following experimental pneumococcal pneumonia, despite a significant increase in the total number and percentage of circulating PMNL (P < .001). These data suggest that despite increasing the numbers of circulating PMNL, G-CSF is unable to provide protection against fatal pneumococcal pneumonia in ethanol-fed rats.
A fractal model for the static coefficient of friction at the fiber-matrix interface

Abstract The physical, geometrical, and mechanical properties at the fiber/matrix interface of a fiber-reinforced composite material have a dominant effect on the overall mechanical behavior of these materials. Specifically, the toughening of these materials is largely attributed to the energy dissipation due to the frictional sliding of fibers at their interface with the matrix material. The micromechanisms involved with interfacial failure and sliding are currently not entirely understood, and the failure threshold is generally predicted using macro-scale friction laws which neglect the micromechanical aspects. The objective of this study is to explore the derivation of a macro-scale static coefficient of friction at the interface of a previously debonded fiber based on the micro-scale properties of the contacting surfaces. Presented results illustrate that the macro-scale static coefficient of friction obtained from the proposed micro-scale model is independent of the normal load and is therefore consistent with the classical Amontons-Coulomb phenomenological laws of friction.
Low-dose CT colonography in children: initial experience, technical feasibility, and utility

Background: CT colonography (CTC) is utilized as a diagnostic tool in the detection of colon polyps and early colorectal cancer in adults. Large studies in the literature, although focused on adult populations, have shown CTC to be a safe, accurate, non-invasive technique. Objective: We evaluated the technical feasibility of CTC in children using a low-dose technique. Materials and methods: From November 2001 to April 2004 we evaluated eight patients (3–17 years) with non-contrast CTC. Seven of the patients had CTC, followed by standard colonoscopy (SC) the same day; in one patient, CTC followed a failed SC. CTC results were compared to results of SC. The estimated effective dose from each CTC was calculated and compared to that of standard barium enema. Results: CTC results were consistent with those of SC. Sensitivity for polyps 5–10 mm was 100%, and sensitivity for polyps 10 mm and larger was 66.7%. The estimated mean effective dose was 2.17 mSv for CTC, compared to the 5–6 mSv for a standard air-contrast barium enema in a small child. Conclusion: Our initial experience shows CTC in children is well-tolerated, safe, and useful. The procedure can be performed successfully with a low radiation dose, and preliminary results compare well with SC.
Reduction of artifacts in fluorescence correlation spectroscopy due to sample adsorption on optical glass surfaces

The preparation of glass cell surfaces that are chemically functionalized with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains to reduce sample adsorption and their use in fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) is described. Optical glass coverslips were acid etched and reacted with either 750 Mr PEG (PEG-750) or 5000 Mr PEG (PEG-5000) to produce adsorption-resistant optical surfaces. FCS data for Nile red-loaded Triton X-100 micelles (NR-TX-100) and Alexa Fluor 555-labeled proteins, bovine serum albumin (BSA-A555), lipidized BSA (lipid-BSA-A555), and three low molecular weight dyes deposited on PEGylated coverslips were evaluated. Measurement artifacts due to sample adsorption on the PEG-5000 functionalized coverslips were reduced significantly for the majority of test materials. Calculations of translational diffusion coefficients and Stokes radii confirmed the effectiveness of this approach. PEG-5000 functionalized coverslips were demonstrated as more effective in inhibiting adsorption than PEG-750 functionalized coverslips. Neither of the functionalized coverslips inhibited the adsorption of one test compound, rhodamine B, a dye that adsorbs strongly on glass surfaces. The use of longer PEG chains in conjunction with chemical cross-linking is proposed for producing a denser, less porous PEG layer for the prevention of strongly glass-adsorbing fluorophores that do not interact with the PEG layer.
Salmonella AvrA Coordinates Suppression of Host Immune and Apoptotic Defenses via JNK Pathway Blockade

Salmonellae are bacterial pathogens that have evolved sophisticated strategies to evade host immune defenses. These strategies include the secretion of effector proteins into mammalian cells so as to subvert innate immune and apoptotic signaling pathways, thereby allowing Salmonella to avoid elimination. Here, we show that the secreted Salmonella typhimurium effector protein AvrA possesses acetyltransferase activity toward specific mitogen-activated protein kinase kinases (MAPKKs) and potently inhibits c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and NF-kappaB signaling pathways in both transgenic Drosophila and murine models. Furthermore, we show that AvrA dampens the proapoptotic innate immune response to Salmonella at the mouse intestinal mucosa. This activity is consistent with the natural history of Salmonella in mammalian hosts, where the bacteria elicit transient inflammation but do not destroy epithelial cells. Our findings suggest that targeting JNK signaling to dampen apoptosis may be a conserved strategy for intracellular pathogens.
The [4 + 3]-Cycloaddition/Quasi-Favorskii Process. Synthesis of the Carbocyclic Core of Tricycloclavulone

The [4 + 3]-cycloadduct derived from the reaction of 2,5-dibromocyclopentanone with cyclopentadiene was converted via a quasi-Favorskii rearrangement and ring-opening, ring-closing metathesis sequence to the carbocyclic core of the prostanoid tricycloclavulone.
Sam Maguire: forgotten hero and national icon.

This paper examines why a supposedly leading figure in the Irish revolution, Sam Maguire, has been forgotten by Irish society. It counterposes this act of forgetting a hero with the seminal place that the trophy that was brought into being to commemorate him, the Sam Maguire Cup, currently occupies in Irish society. The paper argues that by looking more closely at items of material culture, particularly those pertaining to sport, we can better understand how national narratives are produced and sustained by society through sporting forms. The paper problematises the issue of what actually constitutes the heroic, and by using theories from comparative studies of material culture and phenomenological approaches, considers new ways in which the enshrining of the sporting hero can be understood.
Model selection using discriminant analysis

A researcher is often confronted with the difficult and subjective task of determining which of m models best fits a set of observed data. A general robust statistical procedure for model selection is examined which uses discriminant analysis on significance levels resulting from various tests of hypotheses concerning the models. The use of Monte Carlo simulation to obtain the significance levels associated with the tests is presented. The technique is illustrated by application to four band recovery models useful in wildlife studies. Error rates due to misclassification are also reported.
Cross-sectional analysis of specific complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use by racial/ethnic group and menopausal status: the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN).

Objective: To examine the relationships of race/ethnicity, menopausal status, health characteristics, and symptoms with use of 21 types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in midlife women. Design: Cross-sectional, multiple logistic regression analyses of 2,118 women completing the sixth annual visit in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, a multisite, multiethnic, longitudinal study. Results: More than half of women used some type of CAM. Use of most types of CAM differed significantly by race/ethnicity, except the use of ginkgo biloba and glucosamine. Significantly more African Americans at most sites and Chinese women used ginseng. Use of most types of CAM did not differ significantly by menopausal status or vasomotor symptoms, except the use of soy supplements, which was significantly greater among women who reported vasomotor symptoms. Women reporting somatic symptoms were significantly more likely to use glucosamine. Women reporting psychological symptoms were significantly more likely to use ginkgo biloba and soy supplements. The number of comorbidities, moderate or high socioeconomic status, number of healthy behaviors, symptom sensitivity, age, and dietary genistein intake were significantly positively associated with use of several types of CAM. Conclusions: The use of most types of CAM is not related to menopausal status or symptom reporting but to sociodemographic factors, comorbidities, and health behaviors. Given the large proportion of midlife women who use CAM and the potential for interactions with prescribed medications, healthcare practitioners should inquire about CAM use and be aware of which factors influence the use of different types of CAM.
Meckel’s diverticular complications in children: is laparoscopy the order of the day?

Meckel’s diverticulum (MD), a seemingly innocuous anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, presents distinctive challenges to a clinician, as it is prone to varied complications that are frequently elusive to diagnosis with conventional diagnostic modalities. This case series illustrates the diverse presentations and advantages of laparoscopic-assisted management of Meckel’s diverticular complications in children. Between October 2002 and April 2006, 36 patients (27 males and 9 females) aged 1.5 to 16 years (median 10 years) underwent laparoscopic-assisted trans-umbilical Meckel’s diverticulectomy (LATUM). Sixteen (44.4%) patients presented with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (14 with painless bleed and 2 with perforated peptic ulcer in the ileum adjacent to the MD), six (16.7%) patients presented with intestinal obstruction (four due to a mesodiverticular band and one each due to intussusception and floppy giant cystic dilatation of MD causing intestinal compression) and four (11.1%) patients presented with features masquerading as appendicitis (one with Meckel’s diverticulitis and perforation, one with perforated peptic ulcer adjacent to MD and two with a torted and gangrenous MD). In ten (27.8%) patients, incidental MD with a narrow base was noted at laparoscopic exploration for suspected appendicitis. All patients underwent successful LATUM along with appendicectomy in 15 (41.7%) patients. The operative duration ranged from 72 to 266 min (mean 125.9 ± 48.4). There were no intra-operative complications and none required conversion to open surgery. The hospital stay was 3 to 9 days (mean 5.3 ± 1.2). There were three (8.3%) cases of postoperative adhesive intestinal obstruction; two underwent successful laparoscopic adhesiolysis and one necessitated conversion to suprapubic laparotomy to release the pelvic adhesions. There were no other complications during the follow-up (median 16 months). LATUM is a safe, effective and an esthetic procedure offering timely diagnosis and cure for diverse Meckel’s diverticular complications. The technique also allows palpation of the MD and avoids usage of expensive staplers.
Implications of interannual variability in atmospheric circulation on modeled CO2 concentrations and source estimates

The impact of the interannual variability (IAV) of atmospheric transport on atmospheric CO2 observations is often ignored in carbon cycle studies. We use 8 years of analyzed European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) wind fields from 1985–1992 to demonstrate the effect of IAV of the circulation on modeled CO2 concentrations for fossil and biosphere CO2 sources. The wind fields are used to drive the Melbourne University Tracer Model. The modeled annual mean CO2 values at observing locations show little IAV in the fossil case. In the biosphere case the IAV of the annual mean is considerably larger, especially in the high northern latitudes. Simulated baseline selection using modeled radon concentrations does not reduce the IAV. In both cases, surface layer interhemispheric differences show small interannual variations indicating small changes in interhemispheric transport. Source fields from a mass balance inversion using 1985–1992 ECMWF winds are compared with those from inversions using a single year of winds repeated for each year of observations. We find differences in semi-hemispheric sources of up to 0.6 Gt C yr−1 at some times. However, 8 year mean sources show smaller differences, mostly less than 0.2 Gt C yr−1 at regional scales. This indicates that the variability in the circulation is a second order factor in determining the sources from inversion calculations.
In Search of Stock Market Bubbles: A Comment on Rappoport and White

In a recent article in this JOURNAL, Peter Rappoport and Eugene N. White (hereafter R-W) conclude that, "while there is still room for skepticism [of the presence of a bubble in the boom and bust stock market of 1928/29], the traditional accounts of a bubble in the market cannot be so easily dismissed."1 Their conclusion is not based on econometric evidence for a stock market bubble per se. Instead, it is based solely on their interpretation of the widening spread between the interest rates on brokers' loans (call and time loans collateralized by stocks and bonds) and other money market interest rates in 1928 and 1929. After speculating that this interest rate gap was formed when "lenders . . . thought stock prices might collapse during the term of a loan and jeopardize the collateral," they allege that the "high premia in the brokers' loan market therefore contain information about lenders' perceptions of a bubble in the stock market.'2 Based on their conjecture, R-W use interest rates on time stock loans and bankers' acceptances, in conjunction with a model of the brokers' loan market, to estimate the bubble component in stock prices.3 This comment challenges R-W's interpretation of the interest rate premia on brokers' loans during 1928/29 on three grounds. First, we show that a similar episode occurred in late 1919 and 1920, when stock prices were generally declining, quite unlike their performance during 1928/29. Second, econometric tests provide no evidence of parameter instability or structural breaks in the spread between rates on brokers' time loans and bankers' acceptances during the 1928/29 period. Finally, contrary to R-W's conjecture about bankers' perceptions of a bubble in stock prices, the relationship between the call and time brokers' loan rates during 1928/29 is inconsistent with the bubble explanation, and the interest rate premia themselves evaporated several weeks prior to the 29 October 1929 stock market collapse. Consequently, the spread between brokers' loan rates and other money market rates cannot be used to confirm the possible existence of a stock market bubble during 1928/29.
Synthesis of α-amino amides via α-amino imidoylbenzotriazoles

Reactions of isonitriles 11a-c with N-(α-aminoalkyl)benzotriazolcs 10a-k afford N-(α-aminoimidoyl)benzotriazoles 12a-q which on hydrolysis by dilute hydrochloric acid gave α-amino amides 14a-j.
Understanding HRM–Firm Performance Linkages: The Role of the “Strength” of the HRM System

Theory building has lagged on the intermediate linkages responsible for the relationship between HRM and firm performance. We introduce the construct “strength of the HRM system” and describe the meta-features of an HRM system that result in a strong organizational climate, analogous to Mischel's “strong situation,” in which individuals share a common interpretation of what behaviors are expected and rewarded. The strength of the HRM system can help explain how individual employee attributes accumulate to affect organizational effectiveness.
Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Colectomy: Evolution to a Clinically Useful Technique

Hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy has traversed three phases of distinct development. This review was designed to trace the evolution of hand-assisted colectomy from an infrequently used technique to a clinically useful surgical approach to diseases of the colon and rectum. This review compiles previously reported and published experiences with hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy. During the first phase of development of hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy, surgeons explored what could be accomplished by a hand inserted into the abdomen through the specimen extraction site as an adjunct to laparoscopic techniques. Case reports and small trials found that manually assisted laparoscopic techniques permitted more rapid completion of laparoscopic-assisted colectomies. In the second phase, surgeons used early devices that facilitated the insertion of the surgeon’s hand into the abdomen and helped to maintain the pneumoperitoneum. Larger series and small, randomized trials indicated a time-saving advantage to hand-assisted techniques and similar short-term outcomes as laparoscopic-assisted colectomies. In the current third phase, surgeons are using a new generation of hand-access devices that extend the options for hand-assisted techniques. These devices, like earlier devices, facilitate hand insertion, protect the wound, act as the retrieval site for the specimen, and serve as the portal for construction of extracorporeal anastomoses. In addition, these new devices can serve as laparoscopic trocar sites. This permits selective use of hand-assisted and laparoscopic-assisted techniques at various times in the same operation. These new devices have not undergone clinical trials, and therefore, a final appraisal must await future publication of outcomes. Hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy has evolved into a clinically useful surgical technique. New devices facilitate the performance of these operations and permit the surgeon to switch between hand-assisted and laparoscopic techniques.
The Relationship between Biblical Literacy, Academic Achievement, and School Behavior among Christian- and Public-School Students.

This study assessed the relationship between Bible literacy among secondary school students and their academic achievement and school behavior. A total of 160 students who attended either Christian or public schools in the 7th to 12th grade were randomly selected for the study sample. Three measures of Bible knowledge were combined to obtain an overall measure of Bible literacy. The results indicate that students with the highest level of Bible literacy also had the highest average grade point average (GPA) and the highest ranking in test and grade results. In contrast, those with the lowest level of Bible literacy also had the lowest average GPA and the lowest ranking in test and grade results. This trend held for students attending both Christian schools and public schools. Christian school students were also rated higher than public school students in school behavior.
Crystal structure of ICAM-2 reveals a distinctive integrin recognition surface

Recognition by integrin proteins on the cell surface regulates the adhesive interactions between cells and their surroundings1,2. The structure of the 'I' domain that is found in some but not all integrins, has been determined3,4. However, the only integrin ligands for which structures are known, namely fibronectin and VCAM-1 (refs 5–7), are recognized by integrins that lack I domains. The intercellular adhesion molecules ICAM-1, 2 and 3 are, like VCAM-1, members of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF), but they are recognized by an I domain-containing integrin, lymphocyte-function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1, or CD 11 a/CD 18). Here we present the crystal structure of the extracellular region of ICAM-2. The glutamic acid residue at position 37 is critical for LFA-1 binding and is proposed to coordinate the Mg2+ ion in the I domain; this Glu 37 is surrounded by a relatively flat recognition surface and lies in a β-strand, whereas the critical aspartic acid residue in VCAM-1 and fibronectin lie in protruding loops. This finding suggests that there are differences in the architecture of recognition sites between integrins that contain or lack I domains. A bend between domains 1 and 2 of ICAM-2 and a tripod-like arrangement of N-linked glycans in the membrane-proximal region of domain 2 may be important for presenting the recognition surface to LFA-1. A model of ICAM-1 based on the ICAM-2 structure provides a framework for understanding its recognition by pathogens.
REDUCTION OF INFECTIVITY OF SCHISTOSOME CERCARIAE BY APPLICATION OF CERCARICIDAL OIL TO WATER

Schistosomiasis continues to plague populations living in disease-endemic areas, and exposure to infective cercariae results in more than 200 million cases worldwide. Laboratory experiments were conducted to test whether a cercaricidal film applied directly to the water surface can reduce viability of cercariae. A distillate from inexpensive cedarwood oil enriched for cedrol in a mixed oil fraction was formulated (1:5) with the surfactant Tween 80. When applied to the surface of clean and turbid water in test vessels, the formulation spread across and just below the air-water interface, causing inactivation of Schistosoma mansoni cercariae within minutes. The active ingredient was heat stable and reduced schistosome survival and infectivity by 90% and 99.2%, respectively in a mouse model. The effective dose (13 mug/cm(2)) was dependent on surface area rather than volume of water treated. We conclude that application of the biodegradable formulation to the surface of schistosome-infested waters may be an effective, economical, and safe means of reducing human infections.
An instrumented compliant wrist for robotics applications

The design and implementation of an instrumented compliant wrist is presented. The compliance helps reduce the impact effects of robot/environment interaction and improves force control performance. However, position accuracy of the end-effector degrades with increased compliance. Instrumentation of the compliant wrist enables it to serve as a compliant force/torque sensor which can be used to achieve both responsive force control and accurate position control. The wrist device uses rubber elements for compliance and damping, and a serial linkage, with potentiometers at each joint, is used for sensing deflections produced in the wrist. The wrist is connected in series between the end of the robot and the tool, and is designed to partially surround the tool, thus reducing the distance between the end-effector and the tool. A hybrid control scheme is implemented to enable the wrist to be used in a variety of applications. Example applications, including tool usage, are presented. >
Who Moved among the Elderly, 1965 to 1970 A Comparison of Types of Older Movers

This article examines the applicability of general migration selectivity principles for elderly movers. Demographic, socioeconomic, and housing characteristics of a 5% sample of elderly (60 years and older) drawn from the 1970 1 in 100 Public Use Sample are compared across distance mover types. Elderly migrants were selected from higher educational and income ranks, but local movers were selected from the more economically dependent strata. Implications of these findings for demographic theory and public policy for elderly programs are drawn.
Mechanisms of Drug Induced Liver Injury

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) represents a broad spectrum of liver manifestations. However, the most common manifestation is hepatocyte death following drug intake. DILI can be predictable and dose dependent with a notable example of acetaminophen toxicity. Idiosyncratic DILI occurs in an unpredictable fashion at low frequencies, implying that environmental and genetic factors alter the susceptibility of individuals to the insult (drugs).
The family therapist behavior scale (FTBS): development and evaluation of a coding system.

This study evaluated the validity and reliability of a new coding system--The Family Therapist Behavior Scale (FTBS)--that was designed to identify and study clinically relevant verbal behaviors of short-term, problem-oriented family therapists. Validity was assessed by testing the scale's ability to discriminate significant, predicted differences between the in-therapy behaviors of eight beginning family therapists conducting observed interviews and eight advanced family therapists conducting supervisory interviews. All of the sessions, which were initial interviews, were videotaped. Two coders rated three five-minute samples from each of the 16 tapes with the FTBS. The validity results supported over 50 per cent of the 16 research hypotheses. The reliability analysis, based on the actual study data, indicated that the interrater reliability of the 19 category FTBS differed from chance at less than the .001 level of significance. The implications of these findings are examined and future research directions are identified.
Rebirth: Pediatrics residency training 5 years after Hurricane Katrina through the eyes of trainees.

Geographic circumstances: We were in Hurricane Katrina in 2005 but not in the flood zone; we are currently training in Children's Hospital of New Orleans, which was evacuated after the levees broke. About the authors: Luke Wall — I grew up in Springfield, Louisiana, about 50 miles outside of New Orleans. My family has been in south Louisiana for generations and has always made a living from agriculture and commercial fishing. I attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge and then Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans for medical school. When Hurricane Katrina made landfall, I was in my third year of medical school. My wife and I had purchased a house just outside of New Orleans, and we were expecting our first child. My home and the entire medical school campus, including Charity Hospital (where I had been rotating), were flooded. The medical school temporarily relocated to Baton Rouge. I spent the next several months living with family and commuting several hours per day between our temporary dwelling, rotations in Baton Rouge during the day, and our vacant home near New Orleans to work on repairs at night. We sold our home in 2009 and moved closer to our family. I recently matched for a fellowship position in allergy and immunology, which will begin July 2011, at Louisiana State University New Orleans. After fellowship, I plan to continue practicing in the New Orleans region. Christy Mumphrey — I grew up in Slidell, Louisiana, just across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans. I attended the University of South Alabama in Mobile. When Hurricane Katrina made landfall, I was in my third year of medical school but was home in Louisiana visiting my family. We made the decision to go to my house in Mobile the night before the … Address correspondence to Luke Wall, MD, LSU Department of Pediatrics, 200 Henry Clay Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118. E-mail: lwall{at}lsuhsc.edu
Concurrent programming support for a multimanipulator experiment on RIPS

The authors discuss a concurrent programming environment and its application to a two-arm cooperative manipulation experiment on RIPS (robot instruction processing system). RIPS is a hierarchical multiprocessor architecture in which various custom and general-purpose processors are applied to a partitioning of the robot control problem. The system provides hardware support for synchronization and communication primitives, making it easier to write concurrent programs for RIPS' heterogeneous processors. The experiment demonstrated the viability of RIPS in supporting computationally intensive robot control methodologies, and as a byproduct has helped to develop a parallel programming environment for RIPS, called USE RIPS (user software environment for RIPS). By building USE RIPS on Unix and using a layered approach, it is possible to adapt or make use of various existing programs and utilities, such as the GNU and C++ compilers. >
Polarization measurements of automobile paints

Monostatic reflectance distribution function and Mueller matrix measurements were made of automobile panel samples using a polarimetric laser reflectometer and a spectropolarimeter, and roughness measurements were made using a surface profilometer. The spectropolarimeter measurements were made over the range 0.7 to 2.6 μm in the near and short wave infrared, and the laser measurements were made at 1.06 μm. Depolarization indices for all polarimetric measurements were calculated.
Does Democracy Promote or Reduce Transnational Terrorist Incidents

This article studies the various mechanisms by which democracy affects transnational terrorism. New theoretical mechanisms are identified that either complement or encompass existing arguments. Different effects of democracy on transnational terrorism are assessed for a sample of about 119 countries from 1975 to 1997. Results show that democratic participation reduces transnational terrorist incidents in a country, while government constraints increase the number of those incidents, subsuming the effect of press freedom. The proportional representation system experiences fewer transnational terrorist incidents than either the majoritarian or the mixed system.
Migration Concepts in Central Eurasian Archaeology

Theories of migration hold a pervasive position in prehistoric archaeology of Central Eurasia. International research on Eurasia today reflects the juxtaposition of archaeological theory and practice from distinct epistemological traditions, and migration is at the crux of current debates. Migration was employed paradigmatically during the Soviet era to explain the geography and materiality of prehistoric ethnogenesis, whereas in the west it was harshly criticized in prehistoric applications, especially in the 1970s. Since the dissolution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), migration has resurfaced as an important, yet polemical, explanation in both academic arenas. Short- and long-distance population movements are seen as fundamental mechanisms for the formation and distribution of regional archaeological cultures from the Paleolithic to historical periods and as a primary social response to environmental, demographic, and political pressures. Critics view the archaeological record of Eura...
A Neutron Diffractometer for a Long Pulsed Neutron Source

Long pulsed neutron sources are being actively developed as small university based sources and are being considered for the next generation of high powered sources, such as the European Neutron Source (ESS) and the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) second target station. New instrumentation concepts will be required to effectively utilize the full spectrum of neutrons generated by these sources. Neutron diffractometers, which utilize time-of-flight (TOF) techniques for wavelength resolution, are particularly problematic. We describe an instrument for a long pulsed source that provides resolution comparable to that obtained on short pulsed sources without the need of long incident flight paths. We accomplish this by utilizing high speed choppers to impose a time structure on the spectrum of incident neutrons. By strategically positioning these choppers the response matrix assumes a convenient form that can be deconvoluted from the measured TOF spectrum to produce the diffraction pattern of the sample. We compare the performance of this instrument to other possible diffraction instruments that could be utilized on a long pulsed source.
Hierarchical Recognition of Human Activities Interacting with Objects

The paper presents a system that recognizes humans interacting with objects. We delineate a new framework that integrates object recognition, motion estimation, and semantic-level recognition for the reliable recognition of hierarchical human-object interactions. The framework is designed to integrate recognition decisions made by each component, and to probabilistically compensate for the failure of the components with the use of the decisions made by the other components. As a result, human-object interactions in an airport-like environment, such as 'a person carrying a baggage', 'a person leaving his/her baggage', or 'a person snatching another's baggage', are recognized. The experimental results show that not only the performance of the final activity recognition is superior to that of previous approaches, but also the accuracy of the object recognition and the motion estimation increases using feedback from the semantic layer. Several real examples illustrate the superior performance in recognition and semantic description of occurring events.
The natural history of condyloma in children

Abstract Background: Condyloma acuminatum, an infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), has become one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. Correspondingly, anogenital warts are more frequently diagnosed in children. Twenty-five years ago a landmark prospective study showed that untreated common cutaneous warts in children spontaneously regress within 2 years in two thirds of cases, but a similar study of condyloma has not been published. Several treatment options are available for condyloma in adults; none have been studied or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of children. Objective: Our purpose was to review a cohort of children with condyloma to determine the natural history. Methods: Of 75 originally identified subjects with condyloma, 41 qualified for further retrospective or prospective evaluation, including distribution of lesions, duration of disease, gender, and treatment, if any. Results: Overall, condylomas in 31 of 41 children (76%) experienced resolution. Spontaneous resolution occurred within 5 years in 22 of 41 subjects (54%), including 6 of 8 (75%) who never received treatment, and 16 of 33 (49%) in whom treatment failed. In 9 of 33 treated children (27%), resolution occurred during treatment. Girls presented three times more often than boys and resolution occurred comparatively more often in girls. Conclusion: Spontaneous resolution of pediatric condyloma occurred in more than half of our subjects. Nonintervention is a reasonable initial approach to managing venereal warts in children. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1998;39:951-5.)