cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of ligamentous knee injuries in pedestrian versus motor vehicle accidents

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of ligamentous knee injuries and to compare patient demographics, associated injuries and hospital stay to pedestrians who did not sustain a ligamentous knee injury. A retrospective review of all adult patients presenting as pedestrians struck by a motor vehicle to a level 1 trauma center over a three-year period was performed. Demographics, length of stay, orthopedic and non-orthopedic traumatic injuries were recorded. Magnetic resonance imaging was reviewed for ligamentous, bony and chondral injuries. Five hundred thirty-nine patients were included. Sixty-seven (12.4%) patients sustained a total of 84 ligamentous knee injuries. OF these knee injuries that had MRI (55/84), the majority (96%) were multi-ligamentous in nature. Patients with ligamentous knee injury were more likely to also be affected by traumatic brain injury, solid organ injury, cervical and lumbar spine injury, pelvic ring injuries, distal femur fractures, patella fractures, knee dislocations, tibial plateau fractures, tibial pilon fractures, and deep vein thrombosis when compared to patients who did not sustain ligamentous knee injury. Patients who sustained ligamentous knee injury were more likely to require hospital and intensive care admission and had a longer overall hospital stay. Given the high prevalence of ligamentous knee injuries in this patient population, these patients should be thoroughly evaluated for a ligamentous knee injury. If ligamentous knee injury is suspected, MRI should be considered as a majority of these injuries involved multiple structures. Patients with ligamentous knee injuries often had multi-system injuries with resulting longer hospital stay when compared to those without ligamentous knee injuries.
The demand for assets through a low-interest rate environment

Asset demand is important in many areas of economics. To investigate this, we estimate a globally flexible dynamic Fourier asset demand specification and calculate Morishima elasticities of substit...
Accounting for the 'Tragedy' in the Prisoner's Dilemma

The Prisoner's Dilemma (PD) exhibits a ‘tragedy’ in this sense: if the players are fully informed and rational, they are condemned to a jointly dispreferred outcome. In this essay I address the following question: What feature of the PD's payoff structure is necessary and sufficient to produce the tragedy? In answering it I use the notion of a “trembling-hand equilibrium”. In the final section I discuss an implication of my argument, an implication which bears on the persistence of the problem posed by the PD.
Radiologist Variation in the Rates of Follow-up Imaging Recommendations Made for Pulmonary Nodules.

Abstract Objective Determine whether differences exist in rates of follow-up recommendations made for pulmonary nodules after accounting for multiple patient and radiologist factors. Methods This Institutional Review Board–approved, retrospective study was performed at an urban academic quaternary care hospital. We analyzed 142,001 chest and abdominal CT reports from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018, from abdominal, thoracic, and emergency radiology subspecialty divisions. A previously validated natural language processing (NLP) tool identified 24,512 reports documenting pulmonary nodule(s), excluding reports NLP-positive for lung cancer. A second validated NLP tool identified reports with follow-up recommendations specifically for pulmonary nodules. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the likelihood of pulmonary nodule follow-up recommendation. Interradiologist variability was quantified within subspecialty divisions. Results NLP classified 4,939 of 24,512 (20.1%) reports as having a follow-up recommendation for pulmonary nodule. Male patients comprised 45.3% (11,097) of the patient cohort; average patient age was 61.4 years (±14.1 years). The majority of reports were from outpatient studies (62.7%, 15,376 of 24,512), were chest CTs (75.9%, 18,615 of 24,512), and were interpreted by thoracic radiologists (63.7%, 15,614 of 24,512). In multivariable analysis, studies for male patients (odds ratio [OR]: 0.9 [0.8-0.9]) and abdominal CTs (OR: 0.6 [0.6-0.7] compared with chest CT) were less likely to have a pulmonary nodule follow-up recommendation. Older patients had higher rates of follow-up recommendation (OR: 1.01 for each additional year). Division-level analysis showed up to 4.3-fold difference between radiologists in the probability of making a follow-up recommendation for a pulmonary nodule. Discussion Significant differences exist in the probability of making a follow-up recommendation for pulmonary nodules among radiologists within the same subspecialty division.
The Contingency of the Cultural Evolution of Morality, Debunking, and Theism vs. Naturalism

Is the cultural evolution of morality fairly contingent? Could cultural evolution have easily led humans to moral norms and judgments that are mostly false by our present lights? If so, does it matter philosophically? Yes, or so we argue. We empirically motivate the contingency of cultural evolution and show that it makes two major philosophical contributions. First, it shows that moral objectivists cannot explain the reliability of our moral judgments and thus strengthens moral debunking arguments. Second, it shows that the reliability of our moral judgments is evidence for theism over metaphysical naturalism.
Abolishing Whiteness: Preparing MSW Social Work Students for Anti-Racist Practice

The power, privilege, and oppression paradigm that most schools of social work currently espouse to are often taught through an experiential approach to whiteness, privileging the majority of white students with the opportunity to explore their white identity at the expense of the learning of the Black/Brown, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) students in the classroom. Many BIPOC students experience these courses as a hostile environment, finding themselves and their racial group identified in contrast to whiteness – oppressed, marginalized, silenced, and powerless. This paper presents an innovative course outline using Critical Race Theory and Critical White Studies as theoretical frameworks to decenter whiteness and attend to the learning needs of BIPOC students. Using these two theoretical frameworks, students will learn the history of the racial hierarchy of humans; the social construction of whiteness, the evolution of anti-black racism and the extension to other people of color; and the relationship between white supremacy and racism.
Spatial charting of single cell transcriptomes in tissues

Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) methods can profile the transcriptomes of single cells but cannot preserve spatial information. Conversely, spatial transcriptomics (ST) assays can profile spatial regions in tissue sections, but do not have single cell genomic resolution. Here, we developed a computational approach called SChart, that combines these two datasets to achieve single cell spatial mapping of cell types, cell states and continuous phenotypes. We applied SChart to reconstruct cellular spatial structures in existing datasets from normal mouse brain and kidney tissues to validate our approach. We also performed scRNA-seq and ST experiments on two ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) tissues and applied SChart to identify subclones that were restricted to different ducts, and specific T cell states adjacent to the tumor areas. Our data shows that SChart can accurately map single cells in diverse tissue types to resolve their spatial organization into cellular neighborhoods and tissue structures.
Antiviral Agent from λ-infected Escherichia coli K-12: I. Isolation

Phagicin, which is an antiviral agent active against deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) viruses such as vaccinia and herpes simplex, has been identified as a phage internal protein. It was found in infected Escherichia coli lysates, but could also be obtained by disruption of the purified infective particles after incubation with LiCl at 46 C for 15 min or by sonic treatment. After centrifugation at high speed, the antiviral activity was found in the DNA phase and could be separated by chromatography on Sephadex gels with 0.2 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.5) as the eluent. Phagicin present in lysates after removal of infective particles was nondialyzable and was bound to nucleic acids. It could be released during precipitation of nucleic acids by streptomycin sulfate, and in this form it could be easily dialyzed. The antiviral activity of phagicin was specific for herpes simplex and vaccinia viruses.
Feedback loops and temporal misalignment in component-based hydrologic modeling

In component-based modeling, a complex system is represented as a series of loosely integrated components with defined interfaces and data exchanges that allow the components to be coupled together through shared boundary conditions. Although the component-based paradigm is commonly used in software engineering, it has only recently been applied for modeling hydrologic and earth systems. As a result, research is needed to test and verify the applicability of the approach for modeling hydrologic systems. The objective of this work was therefore to investigate two aspects of using component-based software architecture for hydrologic modeling: (1) simulation of feedback loops between components that share a boundary condition and (2) data transfers between temporally misaligned model components. We investigated these topics using a simple case study where diffusion of mass is modeled across a water-sediment interface. We simulated the multimedia system using two model components, one for the water and one for the sediment, coupled using the Open Modeling Interface (OpenMI) standard. The results were compared with a more conventional numerical approach for solving the system where the domain is represented by a single multidimensional array. Results showed that the component-based approach was able to produce the same results obtained with the more conventional numerical approach. When the two components were temporally misaligned, we explored the use of different interpolation schemes to minimize mass balance error within the coupled system. The outcome of this work provides evidence that component-based modeling can be used to simulate complicated feedback loops between systems and guidance as to how different interpolation schemes minimize mass balance error introduced when components are temporally misaligned.
Performance of distributed utility-based power control for wireless ad hoc networks

We study the performance of a distributed and asynchronous power control scheme for a spread spectrum wireless ad hoc network. The users exchange prices that reflect their loss in utility due to interference. The prices are then used to determine optimal (utility maximizing) power levels for each user. We present simulation results illustrating the convergence of the algorithm, and the effect of limited information. With logarithmic utilities, the pricing algorithm exhibits rapid convergence to the unique optimal power allocation. We then study the effect of limiting the amount of information users can exchange. Results are presented, which show performance (average utility per user) assuming each transmitter can decode interference prices only from receivers within a specified radius. The performance is shown to degrade gracefully as the radius decreases. We also compare the performance of the pricing algorithm with a request to send/clear to send (RTS/CTS) protocol. Numerical results show that in a dense network the pricing algorithm can offer large improvements in total efficiency (i.e., when utility corresponds to information rate). The effect of coarse rate control on performance is also examined
Real time early detection imaging system of failed wounds and heterotopic ossification using unique Raman signatures

Our team has established a method to enable imaging of heterotopic ossification and bone growth locations in tissue using Stokes Raman signals with fast acquisition times. This technique relies on the unique Raman signatures of bone to capture parallel, full-field, 1 cm 2 field of view, without utilizing a spectrometer. This system was built in mind as a compact complementary tool for in vivo patient monitoring that can offer a high resolution optical characterization for early detection of failed wounds. Preliminary results of bone detection in flesh are presented here and pave the way for further development of this tool in clinical setting.
Adaptive reliability-based splitting algorithms for ordered sequential detection in WSNs

We consider a distributed detection problem in a large, single-hop, wireless sensor network. Because of limited collection time and bandwidth, the fusion center (FC) is not able to collect the local observations from all sensor nodes. A distributed detection scheme with a selection strategy and a capability to operate in a finite bandwidth is required. We propose an ordered sequential detection scheme which jointly integrates a reliability-based splitting algorithm, an ordered-transmission strategy, and a sequential probability ratio test (SPRT). The proposed scheme allows the FC to collect the local observations in descending order of their reliabilities by using a reliability-based splitting algorithm. As it receives successfully transmitted observations, the FC sequentially decides whether to make a global decision or to continue collecting more local observations. The numerical results show that the proposed scheme significantly outperforms a conventional SPRT scheme. The improvement increases as the number of sensor nodes in the network increases.
Maternal heart volume and prematurity.

Abstract Antepartum absolute and relative maternal heart volumes were obtained on 500 patients upon their initial registration for the prenatal clinic. Pregnancies ending in multiple births or abortions were eliminated, and the remaining mothers were evaluated for a possible correlation between maternal heart volume and premature (by birth weight or gestational age) delivery, toxemia, anemia, maternal age, and race. Although there was some suggestion of an association between small heart volume and premature birth weight, no statistically significant correlation could be established. There was no correlation between small heart volume and gestational age, toxemia, or anemia. The highest incidence of small heart volume occurred among the Puerto Rican patients, and the lowest among the Caucasians. There was an almost statistically significant influence of maternal absolute heart volume on the relationship of maternal age to premature birth. No such influence could be established for maternal relative heart volume. Random antepartum maternal heart volume determination had not any predictable value in revealing new “high-risk” prenatal patients.
Redefining the Acetabular Component Safe Zone for Posterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Acetabular component orientation influences joint stability in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of cup orientation and other variables on hip dislocation risk and to define a posterior approach specific safe zone. Methods A cohort of 1289 posterior approach primary THA cases was prospectively followed and component position measured radiographically. Results Cup malposition, with respect to the Lewinnek safe zone, was an independent risk factor for dislocation (OR1.88). Modifying the anteversion safe zone limits to 10-25° strongly predicted increased dislocation risk (OR2.69). No dislocations occurred within a zone defined by a circle centered at 41.4° abduction and 17.1° anteversion, radius 4.3°. Conclusion Utilizing a posterior approach specific safe zone of 10-25° anteversion and 30-50° abduction may minimize THA dislocations. Level of Evidence Level III
Time–Frequency Analysis and the Carleson–Hunt Theorem

In this chapter we discuss in detail the proof of the almost everywhere convergence of the partial Fourier integrals of L p functions on the line. The proof of this theorem is based on techniques involving both spatial and frequency decompositions. These techniques are referred to as time–frequency analysis. The underlying goal is to decompose a given function at any scale as a sum of pieces perfectly localized in frequency and well localized in space. The action of an operator on each piece is carefully studied and the interaction between different parts of this action is analyzed. Ideas from combinatorics are employed to organize the different pieces of the decomposition.
La deconstrucción de la historia en Martes de carnaval

La genesis de esta obra es curiosa y significativa. Empieza con la publicacion en la revista La Pluma de El esperpento de los cuernos de Don Friolera que aparecio en los numeros del 11 al 15 correspondientes a los meses de abril a agosto de 1921. Su primera edicion en forma de libro aparecio en el Volumen XVII de la Opera omnia y salio a luz el 20 de abril de 1925. El volumen XVII fue relevado por un tomo de la misma Opera omnia titulado Martes de carnaval, fechado 3 de junio de 1930. En este tomo aparecian, ademas de Los cuernos de don Friolera, la obra central, dos esperpentos mas cortos: Las galas del difunto y La hija del capitan. El primero habia salido el 20 de mayo de 1926 en el No. 10 de la coleccion "La Novela Mundial" bajo el titulo de El terno del difunto, novela. La hija del capitan tambien habia aparecido antes en el No. 72 de la misma coleccion con fecha 28 de julio de 1927, si bien llevaba en laportada el subtitulo de "Esperpento." La agrupacion de estas tres obras no es casual ni menos un truco para engordar el volumen que, como hemos indicado, ya habia aparecido con solo Los cuernos de Don Friolera. Se trata, pues de un triptico.
Learning patterns to answer open domain questions on the web

While being successful in providing keyword based access to web pages, commercial search portals still lack the ability to answer questions expressed in a natural language. We present a probabilistic approach to automated question answering on the Web, based on trainable patterns, answer triangulation and semantic filtering. In contrast to the other "shallow" approaches, our approach is entirely self-learning. It does not require any manually created scoring and filtering rules while still performing comparably. It also performs better than other fully trainable approaches.
Investigation of the effect of vehicle, angle-of-attack, and trim elevon position on lateral-directional aerodynamic parameters of the Shuttle Orbiter

This paper discusses the lateral-directional stability and control coefficients extracted from onboard measurements made during reentry of flights two to eight of the Space Shuttle Orbiters. Maximum likelihood estimation is applied to data derived from accelerometer and rate gyro measurements and trajectory, meteorological and control surface data to estimate these lateral-directional parameters. Comparison of estimated coefficients across the seven flights and two shuttle vehicles is made. The effect of the angle-of-attack, and trim elevon deflection on estimated values of the stability and control derivatives is also studied.
A plan for the rapid determination of the major cations in milk.

Summary A plan for the rapid determination of the major cations in milk has been described. With this procedure, the standard deviations of the analyses for various ions are as follows: sodium, 0.124 meq/l or 0.70%; potassium, 0.157 meq/l or 0.42%; calcium, 0.191 meq/l or 0.33%; and magnesium, 0.179 meq/l or 1.97%. These values indicate sufficient precision for most purposes. The agreement between the results of analysis with this scheme and those with the usual procedure is satisfactory. Resin treatment can satisfactorily be employed as a preparatory treatment for cation analysis of a milk dialysate.
Contact precautions for multidrug-resistant organisms: Current recommendations and actual practice

Background Contact precautions are recommended for interactions with patients colonized/infected with multidrug-resistant organisms; however, actual rates of implementation of contact precautions are unknown. Methods Observers recorded the availability of supplies and staff/visitor adherence to contact precautions at rooms of patients indicated for contact precautions. Data were collected at 3 sites in a New York City hospital network. Results Contact precautions signs were present for 85.4% of indicated patients. The largest proportions were indicated for isolation for vancomycin-resistant enterococci and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cultures. Isolation carts were available outside 93.7% to 96.7% of rooms displaying signs, and personal protective equipment was available at rates of 49.4% to 72.1% for gloves (all sizes: small, medium, and large) and 91.7% to 95.2% for gowns. Overall adherence rates on room entry and exit, respectively, were 19.4% and 48.4% for hand hygiene, 67.5% and 63.5% for gloves, and 67.9% and 77.1% for gowns. Adherence was significantly better in intensive care units ( P P P Conclusions Our findings support the recommendation that methods to monitor contact precautions and identify and correct nonadherent practices should be a standard component of infection prevention and control programs.
A pilot study on morphological compartmentalization and heterogeneity in the elasmobranch olfactory bulb

The olfactory bulb of many elasmobranch fishes is morphologically subdivided into distinct units or sub-bulbs immediately adjacent to the olfactory epithelium. We investigated this morphological feature in two species of shark and one species of ray in order to understand its impact on the arrangement of the primary olfactory projections onto the bulb. Using anterograde tracing methods in vitro (biocytin) as well as in fixed tissue (DiI), we observed a direct segregated projection of the olfactory afferents onto the bulb. Application of tracers to the lateral part of the olfactory epithelium resulted in staining restricted to this region of the bulb, whereas the same tracers applied to the medial part of the epithelium resulted in staining of the medial olfactory bulb. The sub-bulbs appear to be individual anatomical units that each receive input from the olfactory lamellae. Nissl and myelin staining as well as the Golgi method show that the cytoarchitecture of the sub-bulbs is not substantially different from that of other anamniotes. However, we did note the existence of two types of mitral cell, based on the morphology of their dendritic arborization. Type L cells exhibit a loose dendritic arborization, whereas type T cells are characterized by a dense, bush-like dendritic arborization. Both types of mitral cells lack basal dendrites.
Discrete and infinite metal–organometallic coordination networks consisting of europium(III) nodes and quinone π-complexes as spacers

Abstract The reaction of the organometalloligand [(η4-benzoquinone)Mn(CO)3]− (p-QMTC) with Eu3+ nodes has been utilized to generate the discrete and polymeric supramolecular metal–organometallic coordination networks [Eu(DMSO)(NO3)2(p-QMTC)2]2 (1) and the polymeric [Eu(p-QMTC)3]∞ (2). The X-ray structures of 1 and 2 are reported.
On OCRA: response to comments by Wang and Wang (2005)

This is the third note I am writing in response to Wang or Wang and Wang (W&W, hereafter) whose notes criticize the OCRA method and my papers on OCRA using a rather strong language that borders unc...
Variable on time (V.O.T.)

Abstract The ability to vary the duration of the pulsed stimulus of the Bekesy audiometer has given rise to a sensitive parameter of end-organ (cochlear) hearing loss. The Variable On Time (VOT) appears to point to end-organ perceptive hearing loss before the Bekesy audiogram or SISI test becomes diagnostic.
Lasers in Atomic Spectroscopy: Selected Applications

Abstract The use and results of the laser in selected areas of atomic spectroscopy are discussed, in particular as a light source in atomic absorption and fluorescence spectrometry, as a sample introduction system, as an atomizer, and in laser-enhanced ionization spectrometry.
Unusual 1,1–2,2-isomers of Mo2Cl4(PR3)2R′CN)2. Compounds with RCH2CH2CNa and R′CH3, CH3CH2 and CH(CH3)2

Abstract Synthesis, characterization and structure are reported for the first complexes of tris(β-cyanoethyl) phosphine (CEP) with an M 2 4+ core containing a quadruple bond. The first complex is a blue precipitate ( 1 ) obtained by reacting Mo 2 (O 2 CCH 3 ) 4 with 2 or more equivalents of CEP and 4 or more equivalents of (CH 3 ) 3 SiCl at room temperature in toluene or tetrahydrofuran. This blue material, characterized by elemental analysis, infrared and visible spectroscopy and by its reactivity, is a three-dimensional polymer with the formula [Mo 2 Cl 4 (CEP) 2 ] x , in which each CEP ligand binds to one molybdenum center via the phosphorus atom and bridges to a different molybdenum center via one of its nitrile groups. This blue material is amorphous and extremely insoluble in most organic solvents, but it dissolves readily in nitrile solvents. From 3hese solutions the highly crystalline complexes Mo 2 Cl 4 (CEP 2 (RCN 2 · x RCN ( x =0,1,2) can be obtained. Crystal and molecular structures are reported for the derivatives with RCH 3 , CH 3 CH 2 and CH(CH 3 ) 2 ; all three are dark green, robust compounds, and they contain an unexpected geometric isomer of the Mo 2 X 4 L 2 L 2 ′ core. IN all three structures, both of the CEP ligands are coordinated in a trans manner to one molybdenum atom and the nitrile ligands in a trans fashion to the other one. The CEP ligand withdraws some electron density from the MoMo quadruple bond manifold and thus differs slightly from other trialkyl phosphines in its bonding to the MO 2 4+ core. Crystal data for complexes 2–4 are: Mo 2 Cl 4 (CEP) 2 (NCCH 3 ) 2 ·2CH 3 CN ( 2 ), orthorhombic, space group Pbcn (No. 60), a = 15.866(1), b = 14.530(1), c = 16.462(3) A , V = 3795.0(6) A 3 , Z = 4 , structure refined to R = 0.033, wR 2 = 0.081 for 2380 relections with I >2 σ ( I ) and R =0.065 for all 3332 data; Mo 2 Cl 4 (CEP) 2 (NCCH 2 CH 3 ) 2 ( 3 ), orthorhombic, space group Cmcm (No. 63), a=16.470(3), b=14.039(3), c=16.787(3) A , V=3881(2) A 3 , Z=4 , structure refined to R =0.041, wR 2=0.101 for 929 reflections with I >2 σ ( I ) and R =0.047 for all 1017 data; Mo 2 Cl 4 (CEP) 2 (NCCH(CH 3 )) 2 ) 2 ·(CH 3 ) 2 CHCN ( 4 ), monoclinic, space group P 2 1 / c (No. 14), a=11.686(1), b=16.750(3), c=22.297(2) A , β=100.10(1)°; V=4297(2) A 3 , Z=4 , structure refined to R =0.039, wR 2=0.096 for 4155 reflections with I >2 σ ( I ) and R =0.061 for all 5643 data. The structures consist of discret Mo 2 Cl 4 P 2 N 2 molecular units in which the two ML 4 halves of the dinuclear units are eclipsed. The crystal packing may be influenced in each case by dipole-dipole interactions between CH 2 CN units. No coordination of the CEP nitrile groups to molybdenum is observed in the crystals of 2–4 .
It's not just about anatomy: In vivo bioluminescence imaging as an eyepiece into biology

Among the newly described tools that enable analyses of cellular and molecular events in living animals, in vivo bioluminescence imaging (BLI) offers important opportunities for investigating a wide variety of disease processes. BLI utilizes luciferase as an internal biological light source that can be genetically programmed to noninvasively "report" the presence or activation of specific biological events. Applications of BLI have included the use of luciferase to demonstrate expression of cell- and tissue-specific promoters, label cell populations, guide detection by other imaging modalities, and detect protein-protein interaction. These applications of BLI technology have allowed quantitative measurements of tumor burden and treatment response, immune cell trafficking, and detection of gene transfer. Spatiotemporal information can be rapidly obtained in the context of whole biological systems in vivo, which can accelerate the development of experimental therapeutic strategies. This paper provides a review of the biological applications in which in vivo BLI has been utilized to nondestructively monitor biological processes in intact small animal models, and highlights some of the advancements that will increase the versatility of BLI as a molecular imaging tool.
Distance queries for complex spatial objects in oracle spatial

With the proliferation of global positioning systems (GPS) enabled devices, a growing number of database systems are capable of storing and querying different spatial objects including points, polylines and polygons. In this paper, we present our experience with supporting one important class of spatial queries in these database systems: distance queries. For example, a traveler may want to find hotels within 500 meters of a nearby beach. In addition, this paper presents new techniques implemented in Oracle Spatial for some distance-related problems, such as the maximum distance between complex spatial objects, and the diameter, the convex hull and the minimum bounding circle of complex spatial objects. We conduct our experiments by utilizing real-world data sets and demonstrate that these distance and distance-related queries can be significantly improved.
WORLDWIDE VARIATIONS IN SPERM COUNTS

Objectives. Based on the premise that various human disease processes manifest differently depending on geography, we set out to determine whether sperm counts vary from different nations and different regions within the United States. Methods. We reviewed the literature of all significant population-based studies that evaluated sperm counts from fertile or presumably fertile men from 1930 to the present. Results.We found that sperm counts did, in fact, vary greatly. Throughout the United States, average sperm counts ranged from a low of 48 million/cc in Iowa to a high of 134 million/cc in New York, with multiple values in-between from Texas, Minnesota, Washington State, and California. Internationally, average sperm counts ranged from a low of 52.9 million/cc in Thailand to a high of 102.9 million/cc in France. Conclusions. We conclude that sperm counts are subject to a wide range of variation among geographic locations. Copyright 1996
Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Relation to Hysterectomy Status in Black Women

Background and Purpose—This study was designed to investigate whether black women who underwent hysterectomy only (n=59) or hysterectomy plus bilateral oophorectomy (n=25) were at increased risk of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis compared with black women who underwent natural menopause (n=54). The effects of both surgery and menopausal status were evaluated. Methods—Women aged 34 to 58 years were recruited from the Pittsburgh, Pa, area. Postmenopausal status was defined as a serum follicle-stimulating hormone level of >30 mIU/mL. Carotid duplex scans were performed to assess the degree of focal plaque. Results—Among premenopausal women, focal plaque was present in 20% of nonhysterectomized versus 49% of hysterectomized-only women (P=.004). Among postmenopausal women, plaque was present in 69% of nonhysterectomized women, 86% of women with hysterectomy only, and 48% of women with oophorectomy and hysterectomy (P=.056). Among postmenopausal women, hormone replacement therapy was used by 23% of women wh...
Will transcatheter embolotherapy replace surgery in the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding

Superselective angiography and transcatheter embolization (SATE) have produced mixed results in the treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). The use of SATE to treat hemorrhage distal to the ligament of Treitz has been approached with trepidation because of limited collateral blood supply to the gastrointestinal tract beyond the duodenum. Ischemic bowel injury rates of 15% to 35% are reported when SATE is used to treat lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). Recent improvements in coaxial catheter design and embolic agents and greater expertise of personnel performing interventional angiographic procedures have decreased the risks of SATE in the lower gastrointestinal tract. The purpose of this study is to review our experience with SATE in the management of both UGIB and LGIB. %METHODS:This is a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing SATE between January 1996 and November 1998. All SATE was performed in an angiographic suite with the latest generation coaxial catheters and embolic agents. Patient characteristics and outcome measures were noted. Efficacy of SATE was determined by analyzing the following outcome measures: initial technical success, rebleeding rate at less than 30 days post-SATE, the total rebleeding rate post-SATE, the number of patients requiring surgery despite SATE, and the complication rate. Patients undergoing SATE for LGIB were clinically monitored for development of ischemic complications.Of 523 admissions for UGIB and LGIB, 35 patients (6.7%) underwent SATE as definitive therapy for control of gastrointestinal hemorrhage (25 UGIB and 10 LGIB). Mean age of treated patients was 67 years; 49% had greater than 3 significant systemic comorbidities. Initial control of bleeding was achieved in 23/25 UGIB and 10/10 LGIB patients. Rebleeding at less than 30 days occurred in 5/23 UGIB and 2/10 LGIB patients. Rebleeding at greater than 30 days occurred in 2 additional UGIB patients. No known duodenal stenosis or ischemic bowel injury occurred in patients undergoing SATE for UGIB or LGIB, respectively, during the follow-up period.SATE is an excellent therapeutic method for GI bleeding in selected patients, and definitive control is frequently afforded. In the remainder, SATE may allow temporary control and resuscitation of the unstable patient. SATE appears to be as safe and effective for LGIB as it is for UGIB. Further studies are needed to better define the role of SATE for GI bleeding.
Wearable motion sensors to continuously measure real-world physical activities.

Purpose of review Rehabilitation for sensorimotor impairments aims to improve daily activities, walking, exercise, and motor skills. Monitoring of practice and measuring outcomes, however, is usually restricted to laboratory-based procedures and self-reports. Mobile health devices may reverse these confounders of daily care and research trials.
Daily variation in 5-hydroxytryptamine in rat spleen and the effect of stimuli on the rhythm.

Fluorometric measurements were made of 5-hydroxytryptamine levels in spleens obtained from separate subgroups of adult male rats killed at two-hourly intervals over four separate 24-hour time spans. For three weeks prior to obtaining tissue, all rats were standardized carefully and were subjected to 12 hours of light (0600–1800) followed by 12 hours of darkness. Analyses showed in each study very significant fluctuation over the 24-hour time scale; the range of change over this period was as great as 131%. The phasing of the rhythms, in spite of the rigid environmental synchronization, was not similar in any of the four studies. Possible explanations for this unexpected desynchronization are discussed. Spleen weights also fluctuated with a significant 24-hour circadian frequency. In addition, the rhythm characterizing this amine was described in female rats as well as the effect of different stimuli on the same rhythm. These stimuli were ether, immobilization and a ‘novelty’ situation; and all three significantly increased the levels of 5-HT in spleen when the overall 24-hour mean values of each experimental group were compared with controls. However, in all cases there were discrete time points when significant differences in 5-HT levels could not be obtained with any of the stimuli. This study demonstrates that the effect of the stimuli used depends on the phase of the rat's circadian system during which it was applied. The necessity of considering the natural rhythmic fluctuation in any investigation evaluating this biogenic amine in spleen is demonstrated.
On density-wave oscillations in two-phase flows

Abstract Density-wave oscillations in two-phase boiling flow systems have been studied numerically using a robust model based on two non-linear, functional, integro-differential equations. Results of several numerical simulations are used to gain insight into the physical mechanism behind density-wave oscillations. For a wide range of parameter values we find that: (1) traveling density-waves do not play an important role during the oscillations, and that oscillations may persist with very weak traveling density waves; (2) the oscillation period is between three and four times the channel transit time rather than twice as commonly reported; and (3) the variation in mixture velocity, in general, plays a more important role than the variation in mixture density in determining the channel pressure drop characteristics. A physical mechanism for these non-linear oscillations applicable to a large region of parameter space, as suggested by—and consistent with—the results of the numerical experiments, is proposed.
Evaluation and management of Fungal infections in Immunocompromised patients

As the population of chronically immunosuppressed individuals continues to grow, the prevalence of fungal infections is increasing. Fungal infections in this patient population represent challenges in diagnosis and management. This article will review the common superficial and invasive mycoses that occur in the solid organ transplant and HIV-infected populations. Disease presentations are reviewed, but emphasis is placed on cutaneous manifestations. Recent advances in antifungal therapy and their direct application to specific diseases provide important new approaches to this complex and often seriously ill patient population.
The effects of controlled feeding of a high-forage or high-concentrate ration on heifer growth and first-lactation milk production.

Abstract The objective of this experiment was to evaluate growth and first-lactation milk production in dairy heifers fed a high-forage (HF) or high-concentrate (HC) ration for similar levels of average daily gain (ADG) before puberty. Responses in weight and structural gains were determined on 41 Holstein heifers fed diets containing the same ingredients but formulated in different proportions to give 2 treatment rations of 75% forage or 75% concentrate. The feeding period lasted 245 d, and individual animal dry matter intake was controlled to maintain constant ADG between diets. Puberty was assessed, and first-lactation milk production was evaluated through 150 d. Average dry matter intakes required to achieve desired levels of gain were 5.96 HF and 5.32 HC kg/d (SE±0.12), and the associated feed efficiency (kg of ADG/kg of dry matter intake) was 0.142 HF and 0.156 HC (SE±0.003) over the experimental growth period. Throughout the feeding period, ADG was not affected by treatment (0.828 HF vs. 0.827 HC; SE±0.010 kg/d). Gains in structural measurements were not affected by treatment with the exception of paunch girth, which increased faster in HC-fed heifers. Body weight at puberty (293 HF vs. 287 HC; SE±7kg) and experimental ADG prior to puberty (0.837 HF vs. 0.837 HC; SE±0.009 kg/d) were not different between rations. Milk and component production were numerically greater for heifers fed HC prior to puberty, although only fat-corrected milk and fat production were significant. From the results of this experiment we conclude that, compared with heifers fed HF for equal ADG, feeding dairy heifers HC before puberty did not affect most structural growth characteristics or puberty attainment and allowed equal or improved 150-d milk and component production. Controlled feeding of HC during the rearing period may allow for improved growth efficiency for dairy heifers while maintaining future productivity.
Embedding of MEMS pressure and temperature sensors in carbon fiber composites: a manufacturing approach

In this paper embedding of surface mount pressure and temperature sensors in the Carbon fiber composites are described. A commercially available surface mount pressure and temperature sensor are used for embedding in a composite lay- up of IM6/HST-7, IM6/3501 and AS4/E7T1-2 prepregs. The fabrication techniques developed here are the focus of this paper and provide for a successful embedding procedure of pressure sensors in fibrous composites. The techniques for positioning and insulating, the sensor and the lead wires, from the conductive carbon prepregs are described and illustrated. Procedural techniques are developed and discussed for isolating the sensor's flow-opening, from the exposure to the prepreg epoxy flow and exposure to the fibrous particles, during the autoclave curing of the composite laminate. The effects of the autoclave cycle (if any) on the operation of the embedded pressure sensor are discussed.
Are Lignins Optically Active

The accepted derivation of lignins from non(enzymatically)-controlled radical coupling reactions has been recently challenged, and it is relevant to ascertain unequivocally whether lignins are or are not (as normally assumed) optically active. Two approaches were used. First, DFRC (derivatization followed by reductive cleavage) dimers derived from β-5- and β-β-units in pine lignins, which certainly retain unaltered chiral centers (as well as β-1- and β-O-4-units where the intactness may be debated), were shown to be optically inactive by circular dichroism (CD) and chiral high-performance liquid chromatography. CD of β-5-derived dimers following enantiomeric separation readily demonstrated the sensitivity of the method. Second, no optical activity could be detected (above 250 nm to avoid carbohydrate contributions) by CD of lignin isolates from pine, kenaf, maize, or a CAD-deficient pine mutant. Representative lignins are therefore not, within limits of detection by these methods, optically active. Keywor...
In vivo renal arginine release is impaired throughout development of chronic kidney disease

The kidney is a major site of arginine synthesis where citrulline is converted to arginine via argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) and lyase (ASL). The rate-limiting step in arginine synthesis by the ...
The vulnerability of radiation oncology within the medical industrial complex.

A etween the Health Insurance Portability and Accountabilty Act (HIPAA) and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid ervices (CMS), radiation oncologists may well take a dim iew of further rules, regulations, and paperwork. However, t is our very innocence, or lack of enticement, that leaves us omewhat less mindful of potential conflicts of interest in ur field. Without open discussion and some filling out of forms, he problems with potential bias in peer-reviewed radiation ncology journal articles is likely to be removed from its istoric center—the journals themselves—and turned over o the media (1) or potentially a government agency. We are t special and unusual risk both because our forays into esearch often involve highly expensive equipment on hich the hospital expects a return and because other medcal specialists do not hesitate to speak for us. The problem in theory is a great deal clearer than the roblem in reality (i.e., vast numbers of experts in medicine arn money from sources other than their salary or federal rants in some form at some time); this can potentially lead o bias in research. If all of this bias were stacked like ricks, it would probably be dwarfed both by the bias of ournals to favor positive over negative results and also the xtreme pressure under grant funding to publish or perish. nd even the most well-intentioned of meta-reviews watchng for negative findings and rewarding evidence-based edicine, such as the Cochrane efforts, may have their own iases—after all a considerable amount of funding comes rom nongovernmental sources that are usually not identied. In short, it may be healthy to view all publications with a omewhat jaundiced eye. At the same time, faculty memers may join a speaker’s bureau because they truly believe n a product or want to see their excellent work get greater xposure. Readers may not be able to discern the differences mong those who became involved with industry because heir own research pointed them toward a product vs. those
Role of nuclear factor κB in cardiovascular health and disease

Cardiovascular pathologies are still the primary cause of death worldwide. The molecular mechanisms behind these pathologies have not been fully elucidated. Unravelling them will bring us closer to therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat cardiovascular disease. One of the major transcription factors that has been linked to both cardiovascular health and disease is NF-κB (nuclear factor κB). The NF-κB family controls multiple processes, including immunity, inflammation, cell survival, differentiation and proliferation, and regulates cellular responses to stress, hypoxia, stretch and ischaemia. It is therefore not surprising that NF-κB has been shown to influence numerous cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury, ischaemic preconditioning, vein graft disease, cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. The function of NF-κB is largely dictated by the genes that it targets for transcription and varies according to stimulus and cell type. Thus NF-κB has divergent functions and can protect cardiovascular tissues from injury or contribute to pathogenesis depending on the cellular and physiological context. The present review will focus on recent studies on the function of NF-κB in the cardiovascular system.
Modern Management of Common Bile Duct Stones

It is imperative for gastroenterologists to understand the different formations of bile duct stones and the various medical treatments available. To minimize the complications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), it is critical to appropriately assess the risk of bile duct stones before intervention. Biliary endoscopists should be comfortable with the basic techniques of stone removal, including sphincterotomy, mechanical lithotripsy, and stent placement. It is important to be aware of advanced options, including laser and electrohydraulic stone fragmentation, and papillary dilatation for problematic cases. The timing and need for ERCP in those who require a cholecystectomy is also a consideration.
The impact of regulation on the riskiness of electric utilities

Abstract The impact of regulation on public utility riskiness has been investigated using common stock systematic risk (stock beta). We show that the stock beta confounds the relevant risk arising out of regulation with the riskiness because of other factors. Our illustration with a sample of electric utilities underscores the importance of this distinction and, contrary to the literature, does not support Stigler's capture theory view of regulation.
Development and verification of algorithms for spacecraft formation flight using the SPHERES testbed: application to TPF

The MIT Space Systems Laboratory and Payload Systems Inc. has developed the SPHERES testbed for NASA and DARPA as a risk-tolerant medium for the development and maturation of spacecraft formation flight and docking algorithms. The testbed, which is designed to operate both onboard the International Space Station and on the ground, provides researchers with a unique long-term, replenishable, and upgradeable platform for the validation of high-risk control and autonomy technologies critical to the operation of distributed spacecraft missions such as the proposed formation flying interferometer version of Terrestrial Planet Finder (TPF). In November 2003, a subset of the key TPF-like maneuvers has been performed onboard NASA's KC-135 microgravity facility, followed by 2-D demonstrations of two and three spacecraft maneuvers at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in June 2004. Due to the short experiment duration, only elements of a TPF lost in space maneuver were implemented and validated. The longer experiment time at the MSFC flat-floor facility allows more elaborate maneuvers such as array spin-up/down, array resizing and array rotation be tested but in a less representative environment. The results obtained from these experiments are presented together with the basic estimator and control building blocks used in these experiments.