cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Developmental establishment of epigenotype: a role for dietary fatty acids?

Human epidemiologic data indicate that nutrition during prenatal and early postnatal development can affect susceptibility to various chronic diseases in adulthood (the developmental origins hypothesis). Controlled studies in animal models corroborate that nutritional exposures during critical periods of development wield lasting influences on gene expression and metabolism, but our understanding of the fundamental biological mechanisms underlying such phenomena remains rudimentary. Nutritional influences on the developmental establishment of epigenetic gene regulatory mechanisms could link early nutrition to adult chronic disease susceptibility. Just as genetic variation contributes to individual susceptibility to chronic disease, it is increasingly evident that so too does epigenetic variation. Very little is known about the factors that contribute to interindividual variation in epigenotype. It is critically important to determine whether nutrition and other en vironmental influences during development affect the establishment of human epigenotype. Most previous studies of nutritional influences on epigenetic regulation have focused on nutrients known to affect one-carbon metabolism. For example, supplementation during development with methyl donors including folic acid and vitamin B12 appears to induce DNA hypermethylation at specific loci by increasing the flux through the DNA methylation pathway. This article will consider the mechanisms by which fatty acid nutrition during prenatal and early postnatal nutrition might affect the establishment of epigenetic gene regulatory mechanisms. Choline, a component of the phospholipid phosphatidylcholine, stands at the intersection of lipid and one-carbon metabolism; upon conversion to betaine, its three methyl groups are available to one-carbon metabolism. Potentially much more important than providing methyl groups for DNA methylation, dietary fatty acids could affect the establishment o f epigenetic mechanisms by stimulating transcription of specific genes during critical developmental windows. For example, the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-a (PPAR-a) transcription factor is activated by a variety of fatty acids to transactivate specific genes. PPAR-amediated transcriptional activation during critical ontogenic periods could impede epigenetic silencing of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism. Lastly, recent data indicate that lipids and lipoprotein components interact directly with chromatin structure to influence gene expression. Hence, intake of specific dietary fatty acids during development could induce persistent changes in gene expression by altering the establishment of epigenetic mechanisms. Keywords: DNA methylation, Developmental origins, Epigenetics, Metabolic imprinting, Nutrition
Seismic communication and mate choice in wolf spiders: components of male seismic signals and mating success

Information sent by multimodal communication (i.e. signals in multiple sensory modalities) may be redundant (‘backup’ signals) or may vary in content with each mode (‘multiple messages’). Males of the brush-legged wolf spider, Schizocosa ocreata (Hentz) (Araneae: Lycosidae), use complex multimodal (visual and seismic) courtship signals. The visual component has previously been shown to be a condition-dependent signal used by females in mate choice. Here, we examine female choice based on isolated seismic signals to identify which aspects females use to evaluate males, and to determine whether visual and seismic signals are redundant. Females showed receptivity when exposed to the seismic component of male courtship alone. The attributes of seismic signals best predicting female receptivity were peak amplitude, peak frequency and maximum frequency of percussive strikes and stridulation pulse duration. Moreover, two behavioural attributes associated with seismic signals, cheliceral strike rate and double-tap rate, were also good predictors of receptivity. Males eliciting female receptivity were in better condition, and attributes of seismic communication were correlated with male size and mass, suggesting the possibility of information about male quality in seismic communication. Trait correlations also revealed overlap in information contained within visual and seismic channels. Given this overlap, we conclude that seismic and visual signals are largely redundant and may serve as backup signals but might also convey information about different male attributes. The use of redundant signalling would be adaptive in S. ocreata because this species inhabits structurally complex forest leaf litter environments where signals can be attenuated rapidly.
The effects of septal and olfactory bulb lesions on stimulus reactivity.

Abstract The present study consisted of 5 experiments which investigated the reactivity of septal and anosmic rats to taste, light, sound and shock stimuli. Septal rats were reliably hyperreactive to thermal, sound, and shock stimulation, but not to taste or light stimuli. Previous research has shown that septal rats are hyperreactive to taste stimuli and light stimuli and the equivocal results may be due to procedural or strain differences. It was also found that septal rats were quite able to inhibit their responses in the tasks used and the explanation that septal lesions destroy some inhibitory mechanism was not supported by these studies. Anosmic rats were hyperreactive to heat and shock stimulation but not to taste, light or sound stimulation.
Thermodynamic linkage of large-scale ligand aggregation with receptor binding.

Abstract There are many examples in the literature that deal explicitly with the coupling of ligand oligomerization with receptor binding. For example, many transcription factors dimerize and this plays a fundamental role in sequence specific DNA recognition. However, many biological macromolecules undergo reversible, large scale aggregation processes, some of which are indefinite. The thermodynamic coupling of these aggregation processes to other processes, such as protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions, has not been explored in depth. Here we consider the thermodynamic consequences of large scale ligand aggregation on the determination of fundamental thermodynamic parameters, such as equilibrium binding constants and ligand–receptor stoichiometries. We find that a fundamental consequence of an aggregating ligand is that the free ligand concentration (ligand that is not found in aggregates) is buffered over a wide total ligand concentration range. In general, the larger the size of the aggregates, the wider the range over which the free ligand concentration is buffered. An additional consequence of this observation is that an upper limit is set on the fractional occupancy of the ligand's receptor, such that even if the ligand is over-expressed to very high levels in the cell, this will not necessarily ensure that 100% of the ligand's receptors will be occupied. The implications of these results for sequence specific DNA binding proteins will be discussed.
Regional development and the value of migratory labor-some perverse economic/technological interactions

It has long been agreed, that the economic value of unemployed labor is less than its wage rate. Shadow-pricing of such labor is common practice in economic analysis. The usual outcome of such shadow-pricing is that the economic rate of return of a project is enhanced. But this is not always the case. Using the data from a soil productivity enhancement project in Mexico, it is shown that the use of essential, labor-saving technology in a project designed to increase output and Income may reduce, rather than increase economic benefits, if the displaced labor has no alternative employment opportunities, while the opposite is the case if such alternatives exist.
The Bamboo Annals revisited: problems of method in using the Chronicle as a source for the chronology of Early Zhou. Part 2: The congruent mandate chronology in Yi Zhou shu

The account given of the Bamboo Annals pre-Conquest chronology in Part 1 of this paper bears comparison with the internally consistent chronological sequence found in Yi Zhou shu, whose coherence has not been fully appreciated by those attempting to reconstruct the chronology. As we saw in the discussion of King Wu's reign in Part 1, Yi Zhou shu ‘Da kuang’ and ‘Wen zheng’ chapters are correct in dating the appointment of King Wu' s siblings as viceroys in the former Shang domain, which event we know took place in the Conquest year, to the 13th year of the Mandate, a finding that is fundamentally incompatible with Chou Fa-kao's, David Nivison' s, and Edward Shaughnessy' s account. The same two chapters in combination with ‘Zuo luo’ are also correct in implying that King Wu died in the 14th year. Furthermore, ‘Wen zhuan’ chapter of Yi Zhou shu correctly dates King Wen' s demise to the ‘9th year of the Mandate’ in those very words.
LU decomposition of banded matrices and the solution of linear systems on hypercubes

We describe the solution of linear systems of equations, Ax = b, on distributed-memory concurrent computers whose interconnect topology contains a two-dimensional mesh. A is assumed to be an M×M banded matrix. The problem is generalized to the case in which there are nb distinct right-hand sides, b, and can thus be expressed as AX = B, where X and B are both M×nb matrices. The solution is obtained by the LU decomposition method which proceeds in three stages: (1) LU decomposition of the matrix A, (2) forward reduction, (3) back substitution. Since the matrix A is banded a simple rectangular subblock decomposition of the matrices A, X, and B over the nodes of the ensemble results in excessive load imbalance. A scattered decomposition is therefore used to decompose the data. The sequential and concurrent algorithms are described in detail, and models of the performance of the concurrent algorithm are presented for each of the three stages of the algorithm. In order to ensure numerical stability the algorithm is extended to include partial pivoting. Performance models for the pivoting case are also given. Results from a 128-node Caltech/JPL Mark II hypercube are presented, and the performance models are found to be a good agreement with these data. Indexing overhead was found to contribute significantly to the total concurrent overhead.
Overcoming challenges in the palladium-catalyzed synthesis of electron deficient ortho-substituted aryl acetonitriles

Highly electron deficient monoaryl, di-aryl and bis-diaryl acetonitriles were effectively synthesized using either a nucleophilic aromatic substitution (NAS) or a palladium-mediated coupling pathway. Synthesis of di-aryl acetonitriles most conveniently proceeded via NAS--palladium-mediated coupling was not required. This reaction, however, results in a product that is more acidic than the reactants. Facile deprotonation of the product prevents efficient formation of the bis-diaryl acetonitrile through a NAS pathway. Thus, palladium-mediated coupling is required to prepare the bis-diaryl acetonitrile efficiently. In the palladium-catalyzed coupling, choice of base and solvent (and thus the counter cation for the benzylic anion nucleophile) is important. Also, choice of the supporting ligand is important, indicating the sensitivity of the reaction to steric and ligand electronic effects.
MYCOBACTERIUM CHELONAE INFECTION OF THE HAND PRESENTING AS A COLLAR-BUTTON ABSCESS

Mycobacterial infections of the hand are extremely rare, with Mycobacterium chelonae being an especially uncommon source of infection. The following is a report of such an infection presenting as a collar-button abscess. The difficulty of isolating the organism, in addition to a low index of suspicion for it, resulted in a significant delay in appropriate treatment. The patient demonstrated an indolent course of infection and unresponsiveness to traditional treatments, both red flags that should raise concern for a mycobacterial cause. Eventually, repeated irrigation and debridement and a prolonged course of antibiotics resulted in the resolution of the patient's symptoms.
The effects of naloxone on methylphenidate-induced mood and behavioral changes: a negative study.

The effects of naloxone on IV methyl-0henidate-induced mood, behavior, and neurohumoral changes were assessed in eight psychiatric inpatients. While methylphenidate alone produced anticipated changes, the indications for significant naloxone-methylphenidate interactions were minimal. It is speculated that larger doses of naloxone might be required to produce modification of the psychostimulant effects.
Housing, Global Finance and American Hegemony: Building Conservative Politics One Brick at a Time

What role did capital flows into and out of the U.S. play in both the global housing boom and bust and the new politics this bubble produced? This chapter provides an international context both for U.S. domestic housing developments and the more domestically oriented analyses in the other chapters. The international context matters for three reasons. First, the U.S. housing finance system was one of a few crucial conduits for the international capital flows that drove down the nominal cost of borrowing globally over the past 20 years. Second, because housing finance systems differ across countries, declining nominal interest rates differentially stimulated growth across the developed countries. Third, the politics of housing is closely connected to the politics of U.S. “hegemony” by creating a more market-friendly domestic politics globally. These are different but overlapping phenomena.
Efficacy and effectiveness of maternal influenza vaccination during pregnancy: a review of the evidence.

Influenza vaccine is universally recommended for pregnant women during any trimester of pregnancy. In light of this recommendation, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to examine the available evidence regarding influenza vaccine efficacy and effectiveness during pregnancy. A comprehensive Medline search identified potentially relevant articles published between January 1, 1964 and February 1, 2013. Articles were selected that specifically evaluated the efficacy and effectiveness of maternal influenza vaccine in protecting women and infants from influenza infection. These were reviewed with a particular focus on the methods used to confirm influenza infection. Ten of 476 articles met the inclusion criteria. None of the six studies evaluating maternal outcomes were randomized controlled studies using a laboratory-confirmed influenza diagnosis to measure vaccine efficacy. Two studies included reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction confirmation; four relied solely on clinical outcomes. The reported vaccine effectiveness (VE) ranged from −15 to 70 %. Seven studies examined the potential for maternal vaccination to protect infants. Four of these applied some form of laboratory confirmation, with VE ranging from 41 to 91 %. Vaccination against infectious disease is an unparalleled public health success. However, studies to date demonstrate that influenza vaccine provides only moderate protection from influenza infection in pregnant women. This review found broad heterogeneity among studies, with no uniform outcome measured and little data based on laboratory-confirmed influenza, leading to wide-ranging estimates of effectiveness. Rigorously designed studies assessing clearly defined outcomes are needed to support the development of reasoned public health policy about influenza prevention in this population.
Delayed Effects of Multiple Sublethal Doses of Total Body X-Irradiation on the Periodontium and Teeth of Mice:

Effects of multiple sublethal doses (6 weekly exposures of 200 r each) on the subsequent appearance of the periodontal and dental tissues were studied in male mice fed either a highly purified diet complete in all know nutrients or a natural food stock ration. Periodontal lesions were observed in x-irradiated animals on the purified diet 100 days following the 1st irradiation exposure, but not prior to this time. The subsequent development of the lesions generally paralleled that of primate periodontitis and was characterized by plaque formation, gingival recession, periodontal destruction, dental necrosis, and exfoliation. In contrast, no periodontal pathology was observed in xirradiated mice on the stock diet. Multiple sublethal x irradiation appears to be a primary etiologic factor in the formation of periodontal lesions in mice fed the purified diet. Secondary factors, such as age, diet, trauma, oral bacterial flora, heredity, may also be implicated. Two manifestations of radiation injury, namely, diminution of body resistance to infection and the so-called aging effect of radiation, should be considered too. Histologic studies indicated that salivary function, particularly of the palatal gland system, was impaired. Areas of fibrosis and reduced glandular tissue were prominent in several irradiated animals on the purified diet.more » This suggests a more specific type of radiation- induced somatic lesion, with its focus upon the oral environment. Impaired salivary function could play an important etiological role in the lesions observed, by facilitating the accumulation of plaque material. (H.H.D.)« less
Representations for the conductivity functions of multicomponent composites

The effective conductivity σ* of a multicomponent composite material is considered. Integral representations for σ* treated as a holomorphic function on a polydisk with values in a half-plane are analyzed. A representation for σ* is introduced which is symmetric in the component conductivities and for which the moments of the positive measure in the integral are directly related to the coefficients in a perturbation expansion of σ* around a homogeneous medium. This second feature, which is important for obtaining bounds on σ*, was previously available only in the two-component case. In addition, a bound valid for any holomorphic function for the above type is proven
The structure of the bitetrahedryl molecule—A major shift due to electron correlation: Effects of carbonyl substituents, implications for the structure of coupled tricyclo[3.1.0.02,6]hexyl, and extension to cubylcubane

Ab initio molecular quantum mechanics has been applied to a number of coupled ring systems including biterahedryl and cubylcubane. Basis sets at least as large as double zeta augmented by carbon d functions (DZ+d) were used throughout. For biterahedryl, electron correlation effects qualitatively alter the molecular structure, decreasing the central CC bond distance while increasing the adjacent CC distance. Carbonyl substituents, contrary to some previous thinking, do not qualitatively alter the bitetrahedryl structure. This finding points to a structural problem with the monomer bicyclo[3.1.0.02,6]hexane that carries over to the coupled bicyclo[3.1.0.02,6]hexyl molecule. Finally, for the cubylcubane molecule synthesized in 1988, the only significant difference between Hartree–Fock theory and experiment occurs for the central CC distance, which, as in the other coupled molecules, is too long. These results significantly lengthen the (still very short) list of closed-shell hydrocarbon molecules for which Hartree–Fock theory encounters structural difficulties.
An evaluation of the Giromatic endodontic handpiece

Abstract The Giromatic handpiece has been discussed. It has been found that many of the claims of the manufacturer and distributor have been grossly exaggerated. However, rather than unequivocally condemn this instrument, I have suggested a procedure to correlate its usage with accepted endodontic procedures. It can be of assistance in the mechanical preparation of the fine and curved canal. However, it is not to be considered the only tool for use in this procedure. The purpose of this article is not to endorse the Giromatic handpiece as a mechanical panacea but rather, to demonstrate the instrument's shortcomings and to offer a guide to its best utilization.
Exploring the Ion Selectivity Properties of a Large Number of Simplified Binding Site Models

The ability to discriminate between different cations efficiently is essential for the proper physiological functioning of many membrane transport proteins. One obvious mechanism of ion selectivity is when a binding site is structurally constrained by the protein architecture and its geometry is precisely adapted to fit an ion of a given size. This mechanism is not effective in the case of flexible protein binding sites that are able to deform structurally or to adapt to a bound ion. In this study, the concept of nontrivial ion selectivity arising in a highly flexible protein binding site conceptually represented as a microdroplet of ligands confined to a small volume is explored. The environment imposed by the spatial confinement is a critical feature of the reduced models. A large number of reduced binding site models (1077) comprising typical ion-coordinating ligands (carbonyl, hydroxyl, carboxylate, water) are constructed and characterized for Na+/K+ and Ca2+/Ba2+ size selectivity using free energy perturbation molecular dynamics simulations. Free energies are highly correlated with the sum of ion-ligand and ligand-ligand mean interactions, but the relative balance of those two contributions is different for K+-selective and Na+-selective binding sites. The analysis indicates that both the number and the type of ligands are important factors in ion selectivity.
Relativistic decay theory: Corrections to the Weisskopf-Wigner approximation

Abstract An analysis is undertaken of the corrections to the Wigner-Weisskopf approximation for relativistic decay processes. It is shown that difficulties with relativistic invariance are encountered. A proposal is made for a Lorentz invariant approximation, which preserves as much of the original expression as possible. The effects of measurements are discussed, and it is noted that, indeed, a watched pot cannot boil. Curves are presented for a hypothetical σ→ππ decay process, and the deviations from exponentiality are discussed when measurements both are and are not being made.
Energy R& D Modeling for Budgetary Decisions

A top-down approach is taken to apply multiobjective decision analysis to the strategic budgetary decisions in energy research and development (R&D) planning. A model is developed for the explicit and quantitative treatment of uncertainties and project interrelationships. The model is applied to an example budgetary allocation between two coal liquefaction programs, H-Coal and Synthoil. The example demonstrates the potential appropriateness of decision analysis in energy R&D strategic planning.
Recall latencies of highly overlearned items

An attempt was made to measure the stability of “long-term” memory for well-learned verbal associations. An analysis of recall latencies indicated that changes observed within the course of an experimental session are maintained over consecutive intervals of 24 h.
Mechanisms of isothermal phase transformations in rapidly solidified Ti24A111Nb

A dynamic simulation for the motion of an isolated superdislocation (SD) under an applied stress is presented. The simulation incorporates the concept that cross slip from (111) planes to (010) planes can locally pin the SD. It is determined that the principal effect of cross-slip-pinning is not the reduction in the SD velocity, but rather the exhaustion of the density of mobile SDs.
Wide spectrum screening keratin as a marker of metaplastic spindle cell carcinoma of the breast: an immunohistochemical study of 24 patients.

Wide spectrum screening keratin as a marker of metaplastic spindle cell carcinoma of the breast: an immunohistochemical study of 24 patients Aims: Metaplastic spindle cell carcinomas may be difficult to distinguish histologically from other spindle cell lesions in the breast. Variable staining with cytokeratin immunomarkers has been reported for metaplastic carcinomas. We evaluated the diagnostic utility of anti-cytokeratin polyclonal antibody, wide spectrum screening keratin, to assess spindle cell breast lesions. Methods and results: Twenty-four patients with spindle cell breast carcinoma and 31 patients with benign or malignant spindle cell tumours were studied using a panel of antibodies directed against multiple cytokeratins (AE1/AE3, CAM5.2, wide spectrum screening keratin), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), and vimentin. Sites of origin for the 31 controls included breast, bone, and soft tissue. All but one (95.8%) metaplastic carcinomas stained positively with wide spectrum screening keratin. Only rare or focal immunoreactivity was observed with AE1/AE3 in four cases; however, sensitivity of AE1/AE3 was improved in 13 cases using steam EDTA as an antigen retrieval technique. Three cases were immunoreactive with CAM5.2 and eight cases were immunoreactive with EMA. All control cases lacked immunoreactivity with the cytokeratin panel and EMA. The spindle cells in the metaplastic breast tumours (88%) and in the controls (97%) stained with vimentin. Conclusions: Wide spectrum screening keratin may be the most useful and convenient antibody in differentiating metaplastic spindle cell carcinoma from other spindle cell lesions in the breast.
Radial artery thrombosis, palmar arch systolic blood velocities, and chronic regional pain syndrome 1 following transradial cardiac catheterization

The transradial approach to cardiac catheterization is popular and safe, but prolonged, aggressive hemostatic compression at the access site may lead to vascular and/or neurologic complications, either transient or permanent. Rarely, chronic regional pain syndrome 1 (reflex sympathetic dystrophy) may occur.
On Topology and Resilience of Large-Scale Cognitive Radio Networks Under Generic Failures

It has been demonstrated that in wireless networks, blackholes, which are typically generated by isolated node failures, and augmented by failure correlations, can easily result in devastating impact on network performance. In order to address this issue, we focus on the topology of Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) because of their phenomenal benefits in improving spectrum efficiency through opportunistic communications. Particularly, we first define two metrics, namely the failure occurrence probability $p$ and failure connection function $g(\cdot) $ , to characterize node failures and their spreading properties, respectively. Then we prove that each blackhole is exponentially bounded based on percolation theory. By mapping failure spreading using a branching process, we further derive an upper bound on the expected size of blackholes. With the observations from our analysis, we are able to find a sufficient condition for a resilient CRN in the presence of blackholes through analysis and simulations.
Development and preliminary application of a homologous radioimmunoassay for bullfrog growth hormone

Abstract A homologous radioimmunoassay (RIA) for bullfrog growth hormone (fGH) with high sensitivity was developed. The fGH used for immunization was obtained by disc gel electrophoresis of frog anterior pituitaries. The fGH for iodination and standard was obtained from Dr. H. Papkoff. The RIA showed only minimal cross-reactivity with bullfrog prolactin, and plasma from hypophysectomized frogs had no detectable immunoreactive GH. The antiserum to the fGH inactivated 80% of the biological activity of fGH in the rat tibia test. The levels of immunoreactive fGH were determined in individual pituitaries and pooled plasma samples from Rana catesbeiana tadpoles through metamorphic climax (Taylor-Kolross stages XXI-XXV). Pituitary GH increased steadily from the emergence of the forelegs to the complete absorption of the tail when expressed as total GH per 10 g body weight. When expressed as percentage of pituitary protein content, the fGH concentration increased through stage XXIV and declined in stage XXV. Circulating levels of fGH increased significantly from stage XXI through stage XXIV and declined in stage XXV.
Changes in the number of resident publications after inception of the 80-hour work week.

Background Since the inception of resident work-hour regulations, there has been considerable concern regarding the influence of decreased work hours on graduate medical education. In particular, it is unclear whether implementation of work-hour restrictions has influenced resident academic performance as defined by quantity of peer-reviewed publications while participating in graduate medical education.
Long term variation in beam symmetry as a function of gantry angle for a computer-controlled linear accelerator.

Testing computer‐controlled linear accelerators for patient safety and proper patient dose delivery requires that certain beam characteristics be monitored over an extended period of time. Computer‐controlled conformal radiation therapy using asymmetric collimator jaw settings necessitates stable symmetric treatment beams. Long term beam symmetry measurements have been performed on a Philips SL20 dual energy computer‐controlled linear accelerator. Symmetry in both the radial and transverse axis of each x‐ray beam was monitored for eight gantry positions. These measurements were undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the SL20 beam steering system during dose delivery of 50 monitor units (MU) per field. Evaluation of the data shows that careful beam steering setup procedures result in x‐ray beams in which fluctuations in symmetry as a function of gantry angle are within ±1.5%. Day to day instabilities produce a total overall variation in beam symmetry on the order of ±2.0%. Results suggest the measurement of symmetry as a function of gantry position become a routine quality assurance procedure for this accelerator.
Fabrication of X-ray compatible microfluidic platforms for protein crystallization

Abstract This paper reports a method for fabricating multilayer microfluidic protein crystallization platforms using different materials to achieve X-ray transparency and compatibility with crystallization reagents. To validate this approach, three soluble proteins, lysozyme, thaumatin, and ribonuclease A were crystallized on-chip, followed by on-chip diffraction data collection. We also report a chip with an array of wells for screening different conditions that consume a minimal amount of protein solution as compared to traditional screening methods. A large number of high quality isomorphous protein crystals can be grown in the wells, after which slices of X-ray data can be collected from many crystals still residing within the wells. Complete protein structures can be obtained by merging these slices of data followed by further processing with crystallography software. This approach of using an X-ray transparent chip for screening, crystal growth, and X-ray data collection enables room temperature data collection from many crystals mounted in parallel, which thus eliminates crystal handling and minimizes radiation damage to the crystals.
On the humanities of nursing

The author contends that the present state of nursing research, as focused on studies that produce the sort of positivistic evidence espoused by the evidence-based medicine movement, emphasizes something other than the goals of nursing. This emphasis has distorted nursing practice by focusing on the ostensibly quantifiable. Using Virginia Henderson's classic definition of nursing and the work of the philosopher Martha Nussbaum, the author argues for the centrality of the human experience in the practice and the research of nursing.
Morphologic assessment of oxidative damage: A review

Biochemical studies have indicated changes in anti-oxidant enzyme activities and increased oxidative damage products in many disease states, particularly aging and diseases associated with aging, such as neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. To try to determine cellular and subcellular localization of oxidative damage, our laboratory has developed quantitative light and electron microscopy immunogold techniques using specific antibodies to oxidative damage products. Results from studies of different pathologic processes are presented, illustrating that both localization and quantitation of oxidative damage products is possible. These analyses give important insights into the nature of various pathologic processes.
Radical Hysterectomy with the Endoscopic Stapler

Abstract Objective. Morbidity associated with radical hysterectomy is significant. Utilizing the endoscopic stapler for transection of the cardinal ligaments and uterosacral ligaments is a possible method to decrease operative time and blood loss. Methods. Two groups of patients, one group with the stapler used ( n = 21) and the other with the traditional method utilized ( n = 18), were compared in regard to operative and postoperative morbidity, operative time, and surgical margins. The groups were similar in regard to medical condition, age, and weight. Results. Median (243 min versus 284 min) and mean (246 min versus 287 min) operative times were significantly less in the stapler group than in the control group ( P P Conclusion. Our data suggest significant reduction in blood loss and operative time with the use of the endoscopic stapler.
Prevention of recurrent idiopathic venous thromboembolism.

Idiopathic venous thromboembolism (VTE), unassociated with surgery or trauma, is a chronic illness that warrants the implementation of strategies to prevent recurrence over a lifetime. Clinical trials show that the benefit associated with extended anticoagulation therapy ≤1 year in patients with idiopathic VTE is not maintained over the long term once treatment is discontinued. Controlled trials have established the efficacy of indefinite-duration anticoagulation, even if the therapy used is a novel agent that is not a coumarin derivative. The PREVENT, ELATE, and THRIVE III trials demonstrate that a strategy of long-term anticoagulation in patients with idiopathic VTE, including those with isolated calf deep vein thrombosis, is safe and effective. This successful strategy appears beneficial across all subgroups, regardless of the presence of an identified thrombophilic state. These include both young and old patients of both sexes, those with factor V Leiden or the prothrombin gene mutation, and those wit...
Hispanic Self-identification and Birth Weight Outcomes among U.S.- and Foreign-born Blacks:

Black infants are more likely to suffer from poor health at birth compared to non-blacks. However, most existing infant health research focuses solely on non-Hispanic blacks and fails to consider the role of ethnic self-identification on infant health disparities. Using 2002 Vital Statistics Natality Data, this paper investigates whether Hispanic ethnicity is related to birth weight among U.S.- and foreign-born black mothers. The results from regression analyses suggest that Hispanic blacks give birth to heavier infants than non-Hispanic blacks. Maternal behaviors such as prenatal care and smoking fail to explain these birth weight differences. However, the observed within-group birth weight differences among blacks are far more modest compared to the black-white birth weight disparities identified in the extant literature. Thus, while it is important to pay attention to within-group differences among blacks, it is still critical to address the needs of black Hispanics with respect to racial disparities in infant health outcomes.
Oscillating solutions of the Falkner-Skan equation for positive β

On demontre l'existence de solutions pour le probleme f'''+ff''+β(1−f' 2 )=0, F(o)=f'(o)=0, f'(∞)=1
Allopaternal care in the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas: females prefer males with eggs

Some species of fishes with exclusive male parental care exhibit the phenomenon of allopaternal care; that is, some males acquire and care for other males' eggs. We conducted a series of experiments to investigate the dynamics and evolution of allopaternal care in one such species, the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). In choosing a nest site, a newly reproductive male tended to take over the nest site of a parental male by evicting the resident male, rather than occupy a physically identical empty nest site. The new male generally cared for the old male's eggs, and in most cases, daily egg survival improved under the new male's care. When males were given a choice among unguarded nest sites, they preferred to occupy nest sites already containing eggs. When eggs were randomly assigned to nesting males, females preferred to spawn with males who had eggs in their nest sites. Thus, it appears that female preference for males with eggs led to the evolution of allopaternal care in the fathead minnow.
Circuit level defects in the developing neocortex of Fragile X mice

Subtle alterations in how cortical network dynamics are modulated by different behavioral states could disrupt normal brain function and underlie symptoms of neuropsychiatric disorders, including Fragile X syndrome (FXS). Using two-photon calcium imaging and electrophysiology, we recorded spontaneous neuronal ensemble activity in mouse somatosensory cortex. Unanesthetized Fmr1(-/-) mice exhibited abnormally high synchrony of neocortical network activity, especially during the first two postnatal weeks. Neuronal firing rates were threefold higher in Fmr1(-/-) mice than in wild-type mice during whole-cell recordings manifesting Up/Down states (slow-wave sleep, quiet wakefulness), probably as a result of a higher firing probability during Up states. Combined electroencephalography and calcium imaging experiments confirmed that neurons in mutant mice had abnormally high firing and synchrony during sleep. We conclude that cortical networks in FXS are hyperexcitable in a brain state-dependent manner during a critical period for experience-dependent plasticity. These state-dependent network defects could explain the intellectual, sleep and sensory integration dysfunctions associated with FXS.
Electrical transients of a chloroplast bimolecular lipid membrane elicited by light flashes

Abstract Using flash excitation, the photo-responses of bilayer lipid membranes made of chloroplast lamella extracts have been studied as a function of: (i) a chemical (FeCl 3 ) gradient, (ii) a pH gradient, and (iii) an electrical potential gradient. Combinations of these gradients have also been studied. Three distinct photo-activated charge transport processes are identified. The fastest component is seen to alter the transmembrane electric potential within i μsec (the time accuracy limit of these measurements) of the initial illumination. Two slower components continue to actively alter the transmembrane potential for approximately 20 msec and i sec, respectively, after the illumination period. The results are interpreted in terms of the movement of photo-generated electronic carriers and protons.
An Extension of the Ulm-Kolettis Theorems

All groups considered in this paper will be reduced p-primary Abelian groups for a fixed prime p.
Non-linear wave interaction in a magnetoplasma column. I - Theory. II Experiment

The paper presents an analysis of non-linear three-wave interaction for propagation along a cylindrical plasma column surrounded either by a metallic boundary, or by an infinite dielectric, and immersed in an infinite, static, axial magnetic field. An averaged Lagrangian method is used and the results are specialized to parametric amplification and mode conversion, assuming an undepleted pump wave. Computations are presented for a magneto-plasma column surrounded by free space, indicating that parametric growth rates of the order of a fraction of a decibel per centimeter should be obtainable for plausible laboratory plasma parameters. In addition, experiments on non-linear mode conversion in a cylindrical magnetoplasma column are described. The results are compared with the theoretical predictions and good qualitative agreement is demonstrated.
Efficient computation of electromagnetic fields in arbitrarily-shaped, inhomogeneous dielectric bodies using transpose-free QMR and FFT

We present an alternative and more efficient method for computing electromagnetic fields in arbitrarily-shaped, inhomogeneous dielectric bodies. In this method, a transpose-free quasi-minimal residual (TFQMR) algorithm is employed to avoid the complicated multiplication between the transpose of the system matrix and a vector, resulting in a much simpler computer implementation. Moreover, the number of FFTs is reduced to only six per iteration. It is observed that the TFQMR-FFT method yields excellent results even for highly inhomogeneous dielectric objects.
Estimated Returns for Contract Broiler Production in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma: Historical and Future Perspectives

SUMMARY Nearly all broilers produced in the United States are grown under contract arrangement between independently contracting broiler producers and integrated poultry companies. These contracts may vary in some minor points, but all include general provisions stipulating that the integrators are responsible for chick placement, feed provision, and live hauling of slaughter weight broilers (weights and age to be determined by the integrators) with growers providing the housing and equipment (as specified by the integrators), labor, utilities, and management expertise, with periodic consultation by the integrator service personnel. From time to time, it is desirable to look at this production system and compare current structure, costs, and returns with those from past years. The Poultry Federation (comprised of poultry firms in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma) Board of Directors commissioned a study in June 1999 to be conducted later that year to quantify changes that occurred in the structure, costs, and returns in the region’s broiler industry during the period 1979 to 1999. Persons considering either entering the broiler business or seeking to expand existing operations can use these results. Lending institutions can use results in evaluation of loan applications for enterprise establishment or expansion. Broiler producers and integrated poultry companies can also use these results to compare costs and returns with past years and evaluate both the future state of the existing industry and opportunities for expansion.
Phase conjugation and symmetries with wave fields in free space containing evanescent components

Several theorems are known concerning symmetry relations between monochromatic wave fields that propagate either into the same half-space (z > 0) or into complementary half-spaces (z > 0 and z < 0) and that are complex conjugates of each other in some cross-sectional plane z = constant. The theorems derived up to now apply only to wave fields that do not contain inhomogeneous (evanescent) components. In the present paper two of the main theorems are generalized to a wider class of fields. It is found that homogeneous and inhomogeneous components of a wave field have quite different symmetry properties under phase conjugation. The results are illustrated by a discussion of the behavior of plane waves, both homogeneous and evanescent ones, which undergo phase conjugation followed by transmission or by reflection.
Visualizing electron pockets in cuprate superconductors

Fingerprints of the electron pocket in cuprates have been obtained only in numerous magnetotransport measurements, but its absence in spectroscopic observations poses a long-standing mystery. We develop a theoretical tool to provide ways to detect electron pockets via spectroscopies including scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) spectra, inelastic neutron scattering (INS), and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). We show that the quasiparticle-interference (QPI) pattern, measured by STM, shows an additional seven $\mathbit{q}$ vectors associated with the scattering on the electron pocket than that on the hole pocket. Furthermore, the Bogolyubov quasiparticle scatterings of the electron pocket lead to a second magnetic resonance mode in the INS spectra at a higher resonance energy. Finally, we reanalyze some STM, INS, and ARPES experimental data of several cuprates which dictates the direct fingerprints of electron pockets in these systems.
A GEOGRAPHIC CRITERION FOR IDENTIFYING PROPERTY-TAX ASSESSMENT INEQUITY

Equitable tax assessment requires that houses having the same market value must also have identical assessed values. With a map of dwellings' assessed-value-to-market-value ratios, it is possible to identify neighborhoods that are significantly overassessed or underassessed; this can lead to an understanding of the causes of misassessment. When houses or neighborhoods are demonstrated to be inequitably assessed, corrective action can be taken to eliminate the inequity. This essay is an example of the application of geographic techniques to spatial public-policy formulation.
Towards patient imaging with dedicated emission mammotomography

A patient bed was recently developed and subsequent modifications made for 3D, pendant breast imaging with a dedicated emission mammotomography system that incorporates a discretized 16times20 cm 2 CZT gamma camera with 2.5 mm pixels. Goals for these experiments include: (1) designing acquisition orbits to minimize effects from complications that arise with patient positioning; (2) determining whether axillary imaging is possible in this configuration; and (3) determining an amount of system tilt to adequately image the breast. Data was initially acquired with Tc-99m-filled anthropomorphic breast and torso phantoms for each of three cases: activity in the breast only; activity in the breast and torso; activity in both, with lead shielding placed on the pallet (to mimic an intended custom-designed lead-lined pallet). Projection data were acquired using both simple and complex 3D orbits. We have found that acquisition orbits can be modified to accommodate the bed's physical hindrances and still recover most of the volume of interest, while minimizing distortion and artifacts in the reconstructed images. Overall, the results indicate this approach could be a beneficial diagnostic tool to aid in the characterization of lesions
Proof-theoretic foundation of compilation in logic programming languages

around a compiler based on Warren’s Abstract Machine (WAM) or a variant of it. In spite of various correctness proofs, the logical machinery relating the proof-theoretic specification of a logic programming language and its compiled form is still poorly understood. In this paper, we propose a logicindependent definition of compilation for logic programming languages. We apply this methodology to derive the first cut of a compiler and the corresponding abstract machine for the language of hereditary Harrop formulas and then for its linear refinement.
Multipulse AC-DC Thyristor Converter with DC Bus Current Shaper

This paper proposes an active current shaper for a 12-pulse thyristor converter, termed a load compensator (LSTATCOM). The LSTATCOM injects compensation current through a split winding interphase reactor connected on DC bus of the 12-pulse AC-DC converter. It is desired that the LSTATCOM provides sinusoidal shaping of the source currents for variations in the output load as well as changes in the output voltage requirements. For voltage sensitive DC loads, the LSTATCOM should also be capable of compensating voltage sag and voltage swell. To observe the dynamic and steady state performance of the LSTATCOM based 12-pulse thyristor converter, a detailed mathematical model of the system is derived and the corresponding simulation models are developed. A thorough investigation of the performance results reveals that the proposed LSTATCOM provides sinusoidal shaped source currents for a 12-pulse converter operating under a variety of operating conditions and requirements.