cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Return to activity following fasciotomy for chronic exertional compartment syndrome

Diagnosis of chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is relatively rare but has been well documented in athletes. There are, however, few reports regarding return to athletic activity after surgery among elite-level athletes. We hypothesized that a majority of elite-level athletes would successfully return to their previous level of competition following fasciotomy for CECS. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify elite-level athletes (collegiate or professional sport participation) who underwent fasciotomy for CECS over a 3-year period. Data collected included sport or activity, treatment and surgical details, time away from sport/activity after surgery, and ability to return to prior level of activity. Six males and seven females were included in the analysis. Patient age ranged from 17 to 24 years with a mean of 19.7 years. Six patients underwent unilateral lower extremity compartment release, and seven underwent bilateral lower extremity compartment release. The anterior and lateral compartments alone were released in 11 patients (84.6%). Two patients (15.4%) underwent four-compartment releases. Eleven patients (84.6%) were able to return to their previous elite level of sport participation at a mean of 10.6 weeks following surgical fasciotomy. Patients who had four-compartment release had a more than 3.5 week average longer return to full sporting activities (p = 0.011). Fasciotomy is effective in allowing elite athletes with CECS to return to sport.
Association of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Gene Polymorphism With Familial Vesicoureteral Reflux

Purpose: Familial clustering of vesicoureteral reflux suggests that genetic factors have an important role in the pathogenesis of vesicoureteral reflux. Transforming growth factor-β1 is a multifunctional peptide that controls proliferation and differentiation in many cell types. Recently an association between the transforming growth factor-β1 −509 and +869 gene polymorphism, and renal parenchymal scarring was reported. We investigated the genetic contribution of transforming growth factor-β1 in familial vesicoureteral reflux by examining the genotype frequencies of transforming growth factor-β1 polymorphic variants.Materials and Methods: The study included 141 families in which 1 or more siblings had primary vesicoureteral reflux. Renal parenchymal scarring was assessed using dimercapto-succinic acid scans. Genotyping was performed in 280 patients with vesicoureteral reflux, including 133 index patients and 147 siblings, and in 74 controls for the position −509 and the coding region at position 10 (+869)...
New multivariate test for linkage, with application to pleiotropy: fuzzy Haseman-Elston.

We propose a new method of linkage analysis based on using the grade of membership scores resulting from fuzzy clustering procedures to define new dependent variables for the various Haseman-Elston approaches. For a single continuous trait with low heritability, the aim was to identify subgroups such that the grade of membership scores to these subgroups would provide more information for linkage than the original trait. For a multivariate trait, the goal was to provide a means of data reduction and data mining. Simulation studies using continuous traits with relatively low heritability (H=0.1, 0.2, and 0.3) showed that the new approach does not enhance power for a single trait. However, for a multivariate continuous trait (with three components), it is more powerful than the principal component method and more powerful than the joint linkage test proposed by Mangin et al. ([1998] Biometrics 54:88-99) when there is pleiotropy.
The approximation of density functions for use in queueing theory

A procedure is developed for testing the accuracy of approximations to probability density functions (PDF) in queueing theory. The approximation can be constructed from the derivatives and moments of a given PDF, if they exist. Four subjects are considered which can be used as criteria to judge the goodness of approximations over the entire range of values of the traffic intensity parameter, rho . A detailed example is presented to discuss the effect which different derivatives/moments matching combinations have on the accuracy of the approximations. The exponential factor is used as an optimizing parameter. >
Resistance training with soy vs whey protein supplements in hyperlipidemic males

Most individuals at risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) can reduce risk factors through diet and exercise before resorting to drug treatment. The effect of a combination of resistance training with vegetable-based (soy) versus animal-based (whey) protein supplementation on CVD risk reduction has received little study. The study's purpose was to examine the effects of 12 weeks of resistance exercise training with soy versus whey protein supplementation on strength gains, body composition and serum lipid changes in overweight, hyperlipidemic men. Twenty-eight overweight, male subjects (BMI 25–30) with serum cholesterol >200 mg/dl were randomly divided into 3 groups (placebo (n = 9), and soy (n = 9) or whey (n = 10) supplementation) and participated in supervised resistance training for 12 weeks. Supplements were provided in a double blind fashion. All 3 groups had significant gains in strength, averaging 47% in all major muscle groups and significant increases in fat free mass (2.6%), with no difference among groups. Percent body fat and waist-to-hip ratio decreased significantly in all 3 groups an average of 8% and 2%, respectively, with no difference among groups. Total serum cholesterol decreased significantly, again with no difference among groups. Participation in a 12 week resistance exercise training program significantly increased strength and improved both body composition and serum cholesterol in overweight, hypercholesterolemic men with no added benefit from protein supplementation.
Health-related quality of life in children and adolescents with juvenile localized scleroderma

Objectives. To examine the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of children with juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) and to compare them with patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and healthy controls. Methods. The cohorts were identified through a diagnostic index and were seen between January 1996 and December 2006. We identified 81 JLS patients to whom we age- and sex-matched 75 AD patients and 75 healthy controls. All patients were mailed a survey containing the English-language version of the German Revised Children’s Quality of Life Questionnaire (KINDL) and the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Linear regression models, adjusted for age and sex, examined differences in the KINDL and CDLQI scores. Results. Survey completion rates in the JLS, AD and healthy control groups were 40, 28 and 44%, respectively. There was no difference in KINDL scores between JLS vs AD (73 vs 74, P ¼ 0.3) and JLS vs healthy controls (73 vs 74, P ¼ 0.8). However, CDLQI scores showed some impairment in HRQOL in JLS patients as compared with a healthy reference population, but not to the degree seen in AD (2 vs 4, P ¼ 0.05). An exploratory analysis showed that HRQOL did not differ among the types of JLS with either measure. Conclusion. JLS patients have some impairment in skin disease-specific HRQOL when compared with a healthy reference population, but not as severe as that seen in AD patients. Overall HRQOL in this JLS cohort was as good as healthy controls, a reassuring finding for patients, families and healthcare providers.
Latino social network dynamics and the Hurricane Katrina disaster

The aim of this qualitative research was to examine the dynamics of existing and emerging social networks among Latino survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Data were generated through individual, in-depth interviews conducted with 65 Latinos within six months of the storm striking the Gulf Coast of the United States in August 2005. The findings illustrated both the role of social networks in gathering information, making decisions and accessing resources, and how these existing social networks were disrupted and strained by overwhelming needs. Broader structural issues, including poverty and a lack of transportation, combined with marginalised status as immigrants, further constrained access to essential information and resources. In response, new, if temporary, social networks emerged, based primarily on shared nationality, language, and a sense of collective commitment. Practice implications include the need to consider the social network dynamics of marginalised groups in developing innovative strategies to overcome structural barriers to accessing resources essential for disaster preparedness and survival.
Group Decision Fiascoes Continue: Space Shuttle Challenger and a Revised Groupthink Framework

This paper reviews the decision situation surrounding the decision to launch the space shuttle Challenger in January 1986 in the light of the groupthink hypothesis. A revised framework is presented that proposes time and leadership style as moderators of the manner in which group characteristics lead to groupthink symptoms.
Cappasporites: A common middle Pennsylvanian palynomorph

Abstract Cappasporites L. Urban 1966, a Pennsylvanian spore genus, has been commonly overlooked or misidentified during descriptions of Pennsylvanian palynofloras. Numerous spores of this genus were found in the Middle Desmoinesian Croweburg coal of Oklahoma and subsequently in other Desmoinesian coals. The genus includes spores varying from 35μm to 90μm in longest dimension and ranging from broadly oval (polar) to spindle shaped (equatorial) in outline. The spore is further characterized by a thickened exine over the distal surface, generally ornamented with scattered blunt granules. Trilete laesurae are rarely evident. The spores are produced in cones of an arborescent lycopod, are most commonly associated with Lycospora and Laevigatosporites, and appear to be characteristic of the Pennsylvanian.
Be specific and dare to generalize: do we need a rating form for every disease?

Be specific and dare to generalize: Do we need a rating form for every disease? Robert L. Kane*, Tatyana Shamliyan Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, D351 Mayo (MMC 197), 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, D330-5 Mayo (MMC 197), 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
Enhanced Photoluminescence from Long Wavelength InAs Quantum Dots Embedded in a Graded (In,Ga)As Quantum Well

Three sets of self-organized InAs quantum dots (QDs) embedded in an external InGaAs quantum well samples were grown by solid source molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). By modifying Indium composition profile within quantum well (QW) region, it’s found the photoluminescence emission from quantum dots can be greatly enhanced when employing a graded quantum well to surround QDs. This quantum dots in a graded quantum well structure also preserves the long wavelength (1.3 μm) spectrum requirement for the future use in optoelectronics devices.
The Corticotropin Releasing Hormone-1 (CRH1) Receptor Antagonist Pexacerfont in Alcohol Dependence: A Randomized Controlled Experimental Medicine Study

Extensive preclinical data implicate corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), acting through its CRH1 receptor, in stress- and dependence-induced alcohol seeking. We evaluated pexacerfont, an orally available, brain penetrant CRH1 antagonist for its ability to suppress stress-induced alcohol craving and brain responses in treatment seeking alcohol-dependent patients in early abstinence. Fifty-four anxious alcohol-dependent participants were admitted to an inpatient unit at the NIH Clinical Center, completed withdrawal treatment, and were enrolled in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study with pexacerfont (300 mg/day for 7 days, followed by 100 mg/day for 23 days). After reaching steady state, participants were assessed for alcohol craving in response to stressful or alcohol-related cues, neuroendocrine responses to these stimuli, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) responses to alcohol-related stimuli or stimuli with positive or negative emotional valence. A separate group of 10 patients received open-label pexacerfont following the same dosing regimen and had cerebrospinal fluid sampled to estimate central nervous system exposure. Pexacerfont treatment had no effect on alcohol craving, emotional responses, or anxiety. There was no effect of pexacerfont on neural responses to alcohol-related or affective stimuli. These results were obtained despite drug levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that predict close to 90% central CRH1 receptor occupancy. CRH1 antagonists have been grouped based on their receptor dissociation kinetics, with pexacerfont falling in a category characterized by fast dissociation. Our results may indicate that antagonists with slow offset are required for therapeutic efficacy. Alternatively, the extensive preclinical data on CRH1 antagonism as a mechanism to suppress alcohol seeking may not translate to humans.
Error exponents for maximum-likelihood and successive decoders for the Gaussian CDMA channel

Random-coding error exponents are derived for the Gaussian code-division multiple-access (CDMA) channel for the maximum-likelihood and optimum successive decoders. Error exponents not only specify the capacity region of the channel, which is known, but also give lower bounds on the rate of exponential decay of the average probability of error as a function of the block length of random codes. A comparison of the two decoders in terms of their error exponents is included.
The Holistic Curriculum

As with any well-founded engineering program, the goal of the holistic curriculum is to prepare students to embark on a career in which their success is conditional on life-long learning, critical thinking and decision making, teamwork, leadership, and commitment. Rather than assuming that these qualities will be instilled in our students as they travel through a well-crafted sequence of challenging engineering courses, the faculty explicitly demands that these objectives be met by collaborating on courses, through coordinated design projects among as many as eight different courses and six different professors, and by continual assessment and improvement. Students are encouraged and required to teach other students concepts that they have mastered. While we are constantly changing, this culture existed in our department before any of the present faculty arrived, and we believe that it can be created in other departments.
Continuous and discrete wavelet transforms for automated subpixel target detection

This paper introduces the use of multiresolution analysis, specifically wavelet transforms, for the automated detection of constituent bands in hyperspectral curves. The wavelet approach is evaluated by incorporating it into an automated statistical classification system, where wavelet coefficient scalar energies are used as features, linear discriminant analysis is used for feature reduction, and maximum likelihood decisions are used for classification. The system is tested using the leave-one-out procedure on a database of 1000 HYDICE signals where half contain a subpixel target, or additive Gaussian absorption band. Test results show that the continuous and discrete wavelet transforms are extremely powerful tools in the detection of constituent bands, even when the amplitude of the band is only 1% of the amplitude of the background signal.
Inhaled nitric oxide: dose response and the effects of blood in the isolated rat lung

Inhaled nitric oxide (NO) is a vasodilator selective to the pulmonary circulation. Using isolated rat lungs, we determined the dose-response relationship of NO and the role of blood in mediating pulmonary vasodilation and selectivity. Inhaled 20, 50, 100, and 1,000 ppm NO attenuated (P < 0.001) hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction by 16.1 +/- 4.9, 22.6 +/- 6.8, 28.4 +/- 3.5, and 69.3 +/- 4.2%, respectively. Inhaled 13, 34, 67, and 670 ppm NO attenuated the increase in pulmonary arterial pressure secondary to angiotensin II more (P < 0.001) in Greenberg-Bohr buffer- (GB) than in blood-perfused lungs (51.7 +/- 9.9, 71.9 +/- 8.9, 78.2 +/- 5.3, and 91.9 +/- 2.1% vs. 14.3 +/- 4.1, 23.8 +/- 4.6, 28.4 +/- 3.8, and 55.5 +/- 5.9%, respectively). Samples from GB- but not blood-perfused lungs contained NO (93.0 +/- 26.3 nM). Intravascular NO attenuated the response to angiotensin II more (P < 0.001) in GB- (with and without plasma) than in blood- (hematocrit = 41 and 5%) perfused lungs (75.6 +/- 6.4 and 70.9 +/- 4.8% vs. 22.2 +/- 2.4 and 39.4 +/- 7.6%). In conclusion, inhaled NO produces reversible dose-dependent pulmonary vasodilation over a large range of concentrations. Inhaled NO enters the circulation, but red blood cells prevent systemic vasodilation and also a significant amount of pulmonary vasodilation.
Second-Generation Molecular Diagnostics and Strategies for Preventing Periprosthetic Joint Infections

Bacteria are highly successful organisms, with biofilms enhancing their ability to effectively mutate to acquire drug resistance (Harbottle et al. 2006; Hoiby et al. 2010; Jolivet-Gougeon et al. 2011). Fossil records show that bacteria have been using biofilm survival mechanisms for over three billion years (Hall-Stoodley et al. 2004; Tice and Lower 2004). The extensive history of bacteria in perfecting biofilms has resulted in a long record of success for bacteria in natural ecosystems, and to problems for clinicians in eradicating biofilm infections.
GENOME: a rapid coalescent-based whole genome simulator.

Summary: GENOME proposes a rapid coalescent-based approach to simulate whole genome data. In addition to features of standard coalescent simulators, the program allows for recombination rates to vary along the genome and for flexible population histories. Within small regions, we have evaluated samples simulated by GENOME to verify that GENOME provides the expected LD patterns and frequency spectra. The program can be used to study the sampling properties of any statistic for a whole genome study. Availability: The program and Cþþ source code are available online at http://www.sph.umich.edu/csg/liang/genome/ Contact: lianglim@umich.edu Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Mosquitoes of North America with emphasis in the midwestern United States: long-term occurrence patterns

Abstract Mosquitoes are ecologically and economically important invertebrates that transmit numerous diseases and are an integral part of the food web in many terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Despite their importance, there have been no central repositories for occurrence or abundance records of mosquitoes in the United States. To enable research dependent on the geographic distribution and abundance of mosquito species, we built a database of occurrence records collected by many individuals and agencies, primarily in the United States and with emphasis on unpublished data in the Midwest region. This resource is invaluable to researchers studying mosquito ecology, disease vectors and pathways, and insect pests. The database contains 542 144 occurrence records, and each record includes information on sex, life stage, sampling method, presence/absence or abundance, and date and location of sampling. The accessibility of this resource will directly impact management and planning for mosquito-borne disease...
Structure and Evolution of Winter Cyclones in the Central United States and Their Effects on the Distribution of Precipitation. Part V: Thermodynamic and Dual-Doppler Radar Analysis of a Squall Line Associated with a Cold Front Aloft

Abstract On 8–9 March 1992, a long-lived squall line traversed the state of Kansas, producing hail and damaging winds. It was shown previously that this squall line was part of a synoptic-scale rainband 2000 km in length that was associated with a cold front aloft (CFA). The present study is concerned with the detailed mesoscale structure of this squall line and its relationship to the CFA. Examination of synoptic-scale cross sections based on rawinsonde ascents, and a mesoscale cross section of winds derived from dual-Doppler radar measurements, shows that the squall line was exactly coincident with the “nose” of the CFA. The dual-Doppler analysis also shows that the inflow of air to the squall line was elevated, drawing in air from the potentially unstable layer within the weak warm frontal–like feature that was being occluded by the CFA. The stability analysis of the air in the pre-squall-line environment shows that when the CFA overtook the surface position of the drytrough, the thermal and moisture s...
Stabilizing Perovskite Structures by Tuning Tolerance Factor: Formation of Formamidinium and Cesium Lead Iodide Solid-State Alloys

Goldschmidt tolerance factor (t) is an empirical index for predicting stable crystal structures of perovskite materials. A t value between 0.8 and 1.0 is favorable for cubic perovskite structure, and larger (>1) or smaller (<0.8) values of tolerance factor usually result in nonperovskite structures. CH(NH2)2PbI3 (FAPbI3) can exist in the perovskite α-phase (black phase) with good photovoltaic properties. However, it has a large tolerance factor and is more stable in the hexagonal δH-phase (yellow phase), with δH-to-α phase-transition temperature higher than room temperature. On the other hand, CsPbI3 is stabilized to an orthorhombic structure (δO-phase) at room temperature due to its small tolerance factor. We find that, by alloying FAPbI3 with CsPbI3, the effective tolerance factor can be tuned, and the stability of the photoactive α-phase of the mixed solid-state perovskite alloys FA1–xCsxPbI3 is enhanced, which is in agreement with our first-principles calculations. Thin films of the FA0.85Cs0.15PbI3 p...
Designing virtuous socio-ecological cycles for biodiversity conservation

Abstract Increasing the pace and scale of biodiversity conservation in a human-dominated world requires conservationists to effect systemic change in complex and dynamic socio-ecological systems. Recently, Morrison (2015) introduced a conceptual framework to help conservation planners design a theory of change, i.e., a hypothesis of how their intervention will lead to a desired future condition. Here, I elaborate on that heuristic, and provide guidance for developing its core components. The framework focuses attention on identifying the conditions needed to support biodiversity, and on establishing virtuous socio-ecological cycles between people and their environment that will generate those conditions. Planning a virtuous cycle requires specifying the people whose interaction with nature is needed to change, and what relevance the proposed conservation would have to them. The conservation intervention will largely focus on mobilizing those people to institutionalize policies or practices that mainstream, through self-reinforcing positive feedbacks, the delivery of that conservation outcome. The framework complements existing conservation planning tools and methods – such as biodiversity mapping, situation analysis – by providing context and focus for their application. The clarity of objective versus strategy, of ends versus means, provided by this framework can increase the effectiveness of conservationists, who routinely must estimate and compare the conservation return on investment of different potential interventions and negotiate tradeoffs between biodiversity protection and other societal values.
Economic Freedom and the Wealth and Well-Being of Nations

In this essay, Lawson describes the Economic Freedom of the World (EFW) project that quantifies the connections between economic freedom, political freedom, and economic performance by capturing and distilling the key elements of economic freedom within a single index.
Dynamic intensity-weighted region of interest imaging for conebeam CT.

BACKGROUND Patient dose from image guidance in radiotherapy is small compared to the treatment dose. However, the imaging beam is untargeted and deposits dose equally in tumor and healthy tissues. It is desirable to minimize imaging dose while maintaining efficacy. OBJECTIVE Image guidance typically does not require full image quality throughout the patient. Dynamic filtration of the kV beam allows local control of CT image noise for high quality around the target volume and lower quality elsewhere, with substantial dose sparing and reduced scatter fluence on the detector. METHODS The dynamic Intensity-Weighted Region of Interest (dIWROI) technique spatially varies beam intensity during acquisition with copper filter collimation. Fluence is reduced by 95% under the filters with the aperture conformed dynamically to the ROI during cone-beam CT scanning. Preprocessing to account for physical effects of the collimator before reconstruction is described. RESULTS Reconstructions show image quality comparable to a standard scan in the ROI, with higher noise and streak artifacts in the outer region but still adequate quality for patient localization. Monte Carlo modeling shows dose reduction by 10-15% in the ROI due to reduced scatter, and up to 75% outside. CONCLUSIONS The presented technique offers a method to reduce imaging dose by accepting increased image noise outside the ROI, while maintaining full image quality inside the ROI.
ACLU LIMITATIONS ON FREE SPEECH: THE CASE OF ELIZABETH FLYNN

(1972). ACLU LIMITATIONS ON FREE SPEECH: THE CASE OF ELIZABETH FLYNN. Free Speech Yearbook: Vol. 11, No. 1, pp. 31-39.
Properties of Lamps and Optical Systems for Sound Reproduction

Sound reproduction systems are designed on the premise that the sound-track will be illuminated by a scanning-beam of substantially uniform flux density. This paper presents results of extensive studies of the actual beam characteristics for all types of optical systems and lamps employed in the reproduction of sound from film. They were made possible by a unique microphotometer, designed by the author, with which the scanning beam can be analyzed in minute elements. — The studies cover: relative levels of scanning beam illumination; effect of source displacement from design position on total flux at the sound-track; microphotometer recordings of distribution of flux density across the beam as affected by optical systems and source forms and by displacements of the source.
The New Mexico Range Caterpillar and Its Natural Control

The New Mexico range caterpillar, Hemileuca oliviae Ckll., after approximately 12 years of restricted activities, has again reached damaging numbers and has spread over the entire cattle-range area of northeastern New Mexico. Control is being attempted through breeding and colonizing its native egg parasite.
Riluzole mediates anti-tumor properties in breast cancer cells independent of metabotropic glutamate receptor-1.

Riluzole, the only drug approved by the FDA for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, inhibits melanoma proliferation through its inhibitory effect on glutamatergic signaling. We demonstrated that riluzole also inhibits the growth of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and described a role for metabotropic glutamate receptor-1 (GRM1) in regulating TNBC cell growth and progression. However, the role of GRM1 in mediating riluzole’s effects in breast cancer has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we seek to determine how much of riluzole’s action in breast cancer is mediated through GRM1. We investigated anti-tumor properties of riluzole in TNBC and ER+ cells using cell growth, invasion, and soft-agar assays and compared riluzole activity with GRM1 levels. Using Lentiviral vectors expressing GRM1 or shGRM1, these studies were repeated in cells expressing high or low GRM1 levels where the gene was either silenced or overexpressed. Riluzole inhibited proliferation, invasion, and colony formation in both TNBC and ER+ cells. There was a trend between GRM1 expression in TNBC cells and their response to riluzole in both cell proliferation and invasion assays. However, silencing and overexpression studies had no effect on cell sensitivity to riluzole. Our results clearly suggest a GRM1-independent mechanism through which riluzole mediates its effects on breast cancer cells. Understanding the mechanism by which riluzole mediates breast cancer progression will be useful in identifying new therapeutic targets for treating TNBC and in facilitating stratification of patients in clinical trials using riluzole in conjunction with conventional therapy.
Fire-resistance simulation and test of prefabricated bamboo house

The research team developed a new type of prefabricated mobile hosing system using glue laminated bamboo(GluBam),and deployed to the areas devastated by the May 12,2008 Great Wenchuan earthquake.In order to analyze the fire performance of the new bamboo housing system,comparative studies on fire resistant performance of a full-size prefabricated bamboo house and a counterpart light-gauge steel panel house model were carried out.Electrical thermo-couples were installed on each face of the walls to detect the temperature spread in the walls of the testing houses under internal floor fire.On-site observation and data analysis indicated the great advantage of the newly developed bamboo house,in terms of delaying the spread of the fire and retaining stability under fire.In addition,the authors conducted simulation of fire tests using fire power simulation software FDS(fire dynamics simulator).The results of tests and simulations indicate that the prefabricated bamboo house exhibits superior safety and fire resistant performance than light-gauge steel panel house.
The effect of different methods of ovarian stimulation for human in vitro fertilization and embryo replacement

Many types of medication regimens have been used to produce ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization and embryo replacement. However, few comparative studies have been reported. In this investigation, 105 patients were given either clomiphene citrate alone, human menopausal gonadotropins alone, or a combination of these drugs; and the resulting number of oocytes collected, embryos produced, and pregnancies initiated are reported. The data demonstrate optimal follicle development and fertilization rates with combinations of drugs, rather than the use of a single agent. Further studies are needed to determine whether there is a statistically significant difference in pregnancy rates between groups.
Quantifying Multistate Cytoplasmic Molecular Diffusion in Bacterial Cells via Inverse Transform of Confined Displacement Distribution

Single-molecule tracking (SMT) of fluorescently tagged cytoplasmic proteins can provide valuable information on the underlying biological processes in living cells via subsequent analysis of the displacement distributions; however, the confinement effect originated from the small size of a bacterial cell skews the protein’s displacement distribution and complicates the quantification of the intrinsic diffusive behaviors. Using the inverse transformation method, we convert the skewed displacement distribution (for both 2D and 3D imaging conditions) back to that in free space for systems containing one or multiple (non)interconverting Brownian diffusion states, from which we can reliably extract the number of diffusion states as well as their intrinsic diffusion coefficients and respective fractional populations. We further demonstrate a successful application to experimental SMT data of a transcription factor in living E. coli cells. This work allows a direct quantitative connection between cytoplasmic SMT...
Prospects of Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is used to introduce genes encoding proteins that are not produced by the target cells or to replace deficient protein in cases where non- or malfunctioning proteins are produced due to genetic mutations. This concept can be applied to a wide range of skeletal diseases. In this chapter, recent developments and achievements in preclinical and clinical studies of gene therapy approaches for inherited and acquired bone and cartilage disorders will be reviewed. The basic principles of in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy will be described. Furthermore, an overview will be given of gene delivery vectors and different cells types that are most commonly used. A number of skeletal disorders that have been treated by gene therapy will be described, including candidate genes, approaches, preclinical and clinical trials. Finally, an outlook for the future of gene therapy for skeletal diseases will be given.
Affection in Interpersonal Relationships: Not Just “A Fond or Tender Feeling”

Affection is the need for positive regard from another and the feeling of positive regard for another, communicated through affectionate behaviors, that occurs in relationships ranging from acquaintance to intimate. It plays a significant role in child development, parenting, couple relationships, adult well-being, and elder health. It is crucial to our existence and an underlying dimension of interpersonal relationships. This essay reviews the extensive literature on affection, looking at the importance of affection and its place as a dimension of relationships. It provides a definition of affection, discusses how affection relates to associated concepts, summarizes the wide range of behaviors classified as affectionate, considers the factors influencing affectionate communication, traces the development of affectionate communication patterns in individuals, summarizes theories that help explain affectionate communication, and examines instruments used to measure affection. It concludes with suggestions ...
Piezoelectric MEMS: Materials and Devices

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are miniaturized devices that when coupled with IC (integrated circuit) components have the ability to interact with the environment or other on-chip components, allowing creation of sensor, actuator, and/or transducer systems thereby. Although originally the term referred to only miniaturizedmechanical devices, MEMS is now a generic expression for any miniaturized device that has interactive capabilities. Therefore, optoelectronic and microfluidic miniaturized systems, including lab-on-chip, are also currently described as MEMS. MEMS technology emerged in early 1990s by leveraging many of the materials and processes from the IC industry, and thus it was mainly based on the silicon technology.As the field has grown over the years, concepts of more complex devices have been proposed and demonstrated, many based on new, functional materials with new fabrication processes, which allow creation of systems consuming less power, with faster and more reliable response, and capable of incorporating more complex functions. An important family of functional materials are piezoelectric, and in general, polar materials.1 Piezoelectric thin films are especially useful in those applications that require low power and low noise, high frequency and large output signals. Among the many proposed chemistries, the most used are AlN, ZnO, Pb(Zr1−xTix)O3 (PZT). This chapter reviews the literature on piezoelectric MEMS, with specific attention to the materials used and the reported applications.
Irreversible Enzyme Inhibitors LXVII: 2-amino-6- (p-bromoacetamidophenylbutyl) -5-phenylbutyl-4-pyrimidinol, an Active-Site-Directed Irreversible Inhibitor of Dihydrofolic Reductase

2-Amino-5-phenylbutyl-4-pyrimidinols substituted by a p -bromoacetamidophenyl-butyl group (XIII) or a p -bromoacetamidophenethyl group (XIV) on the 6-position can inactivate dihydrofolic reductase with a half-life of 18 and 12 min. at 37°, respectively. These inactivations have the kinetic parameters expected for enzyme inactivation by the active-site-directed mechanism, that is, an inactivation proceeding by a neighboring group reaction within the reversible complex formed between dihydrofolic reductase and XIII or XIV. Neither iodoacetamide nor p -bromoacetamidophenylbutyric acid showed any inactivation of dihydrofolic reductase at a concentration equal to XIII under conditions where XIII gave 65–70 per cent inactivation. The rate of inactivation of dihydrofolic reductase by XIII and XIV was slowed by the reversible inhibitors, folic acid (I) and 2,4-diamino-5-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-6-ethylpyrimidine (XV). The inactivation was also slowed by TPNH, but not by DPNH or adenosine diphosphate.
A truly Lego®-like modular microfluidics platform

Ideally, a modular microfluidics platform should be simple to assemble and support 3D configurations for increased versatility. The modular building blocks should also be mass producible like electrical components. These are fundamental features of world-renowned Legos® and why Legos® inspire many existing modular microfluidics platforms. In this paper, a truly Lego®-like microfluidics platform is introduced, and its basic feasibility is demonstrated. Here, PDMS building blocks resembling 2 × 2 Lego® bricks are cast from 3D-printed master molds. The blocks are pegged and stacked on a traditional Lego® plate to create simple, 3D microfluidic networks, such as a single basket weave. Characteristics of the platform, including reversible sealing and automatic alignment of channels, are also analyzed and discussed in detail.
Testing Cross-System Transferability of Fish Habitat Associations Using Cottus carolinae (Banded Sculpin)

Abstract Assessing stream fish habitat associations across contrasting ecosystems can inform generality of habitat predictions. We tracked Cottus carolinae (Banded Sculpin) in Little Creek, TN, to test transferability of habitat predictions developed from independent studies. Predictions included shifting habitat use across size classes (prediction 1), over the diel period (prediction 2), and during variable flows (prediction 3), as well as maintaining associations with depth, velocity, and substrate gradients across scales (prediction 4). Size 1 (80–99 mm TL) and size 2 (100–140 mm TL) Banded Sculpin used similar habitats (prediction 1 not supported), shifted to pools with little cover at night (prediction 2 supported), and adjusted habitat uses according to flow (prediction 3 supported), and depth, velocity, and substrate associations were similar for small and large streams when size classes were combined (prediction 4 supported). Our synthesis highlights consistencies in fish habitat associations that...
Optimization of liquid ammonia pretreatment variables for maximum enzymatic hydrolysis yield of energy cane bagasse

Abstract This study aimed at optimizing a liquid ammonium hydroxide pretreatment for energy cane bagasse for maximum sugar yields (glucose and xylose) via response surface methodology. Optimized pretreatment parameters included temperature (160–220 °C), ammonium hydroxide to biomass ratio (0–0.5:1) and residence time (30–60 min). Temperature was found to be the dominant pretreatment parameter followed by ammonium hydroxide to biomass ratio. High temperatures and long residence times had a negative effect on sugar yields. Sugar yields had the highest correlation with lignin removal. Based on our quadratic models fitted on the experimental results, optimum pretreatment conditions for maximum glucose yield were 208 °C, for 36 min and at an ammonium hydroxide to biomass ratio of 0.4:1. A glucose yield of 30.77 g glucose/100 g (dry weight) untreated biomass and a xylose yield of 3.99 g xylose/100 g (dry weight) untreated biomass were predicted by the model. Optimum pretreatment conditions for maximum xylose yield were 160 °C, for 60 min and at an ammonium hydroxide to biomass ratio of 0.31:1. These conditions resulted in a predicted xylose yield of 9.10 g xylose/100 g (dry weight) untreated biomass and a glucose yield of 23.34 g glucose/100 g (dry weight) untreated biomass. The low xylose yields observed were attributed to the high amounts of xylan lost due to solubilization. The quadratic models were found to be reliable for the prediction of sugar yields within the design space. All predicted values were experimentally confirmed with 95% confidence of the predicted values.
Liveness-Enforcing Supervision for n-Safe Ordinary Petri Nets with Uncontrollable Transitions

Abstract This paper presents necessary and sufficient conditions that verify the existence of liveness-enforcing supervisory policies for n -safe ordinary Petri nets with uncontrollable transitions. The approach is based on a partial method called network unfolding , which unfolds the original net to an acyclic occurrence net. The occurrence net preserves the ordering relationship among transitions and enumerates all the reachable markings of the original network. We identify a set of base configurations from the occurrence net. A base configuration may be live or deadlocked. A set of base configurations may be in cyclic lock. We prove that there exists a liveness-enforcing supervisory policy if and only if every transition of the original net is contained in some live base configuration and every deadlocked base configuration as well as every cyclic lock is controllable. Furthermore, we show that the liveness-enforcing supervisory policy constructed in the sufficiency proof is maximally permissive (or minimally restrictive).
Metabolic Concomitants of Obese and Nonobese Women With Features of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

Context Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is often associated with obesity and diabetes. Objective The present study measured body fat distribution and metabolic risk factors in women with features of PCOS. Design Cross-sectional, multiethnic study of cardiovascular risks. Setting General community. Study Participants 145 PCOS and 344 non-PCOS women. Exposure Measures Body composition by dual x-ray absorptiometry; abdominal fat masses measured by magnetic resonance imaging and hepatic triglyceride by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Outcomes Measures Body composition, liver fat content, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), revised, and metabolic syndrome components. Results PCOS women had a higher free androgen index compared with the non-PCOS women. Nonobese PCOS and non-PCOS women had a similar body fat content and distribution, HOMA-IR, and hepatic triglyceride content. Obese PCOS women had a similar total body fat percentage compared with their non-PCOS counterparts (41.4% and 41.4% respectively). Both obese groups had similar intraperitoneal fat (1.4% of total body mass in PCOS vs 1.4% in non-PCOS). However, obese PCOS women had a greater ratio of truncal/lower body fat (1.42 vs 1.27; P < 0.016). They also had greater insulin resistance (HOMA-IR: PCOS, 2.24% vs non-PCOS, 1.91%; P < 0.016), higher liver triglyceride content (6.96% in PCOS vs 4.44% in non-PCOS; P < 0.016), and a greater incidence of hypertension (33% vs 24%; P < 0.05). No differences were observed in other metabolic risk factors. Conclusions Both obese and nonobese women with PCOS features had a greater free androgen index compared with non-PCOS women, but neither had greater intraperitoneal fat or abnormal lipid levels. Obese, but not nonobese, women with PCOS had a greater truncal/lower extremity fat ratio, HOMA-IR, and liver triglyceride content.
The Method of Archimedes in the Seventeenth Century

In his Quadrature of the Parabola Solved by Many Methods through the New Geometry of Indivisibles, Evangelista Torricelli presented a proof of Archimedes’ quadrature formula that closely resembles ...
Encryption Based on Neural Cryptography

Neural network cryptography is an interesting area of research in the field of computer science. This paper proposes a new model to encrypt/decrypt a secret code using Neural Networks unlike previous private key cryptography model that are based on theoretic number functions. In the first part of the paper, we propose our model and analyze the privacy and security of the model thereby explaining why an attacker with a similar neural network model is unlikely to pose a threat to the system. This proves that the model is pretty secure. In the second part of the paper, we experiment with the neural network model using two different ciphertexts of different length. Parameters of the network that are tested are different learning rates, optimizers and step values. The experimental results show how to enhance the accuracy of our model even further. Furthermore, our proposed model is more efficient and accurate compared to other models for encryption and decryption.
Coal and Biomass to Liquid Fuels

Demand for liquid transportation fuels has been increasing by over 2%/year over the last two decades and is accelerating in the emerging economies which are moving to automobile ownership. Almost all liquid transportation fuels are derived from petroleum, which at the same time is coming under increasing demand pressure and price instability. A high degree of dependence on petroleum brings concerns about diversity and security as well as issues of decreasing CO2 emissions associated with the transportation sector. This chapter examines the potential to use coal and biomass to replace petroleum-derived liquid fuels and thereby to address the concerns that are associated with near total dependence on petroleum-based liquid transportation fuels. The evaluation centers on the U.S. but is easily expandable to other developed countries and the developing world.
Geological Models in Transition

The past decade was a time of transition from dominantly univariate statistical procedures in geology to increasingly multivariate techniques as the influence of the computer spread through the science. The accompanying rapid rise of the model concept in geology brought with it a diversity in methods of structuring data for search procedures and statistical predictor models. The general linear model, with its great flexibility, easily rose to dominance in this domain, both for research and practical application.
Recent Studies on Grafting Polyelectrolytes to Membranes for Reverse Osmosis

The grafting of polyelectrolytes to polymer films leads to considerable increases in their water sorption and changes in their water permeability and salt rejection properties. Cellulose acetate polyvinyl chloride and polyoxetane films have been grafted with styrene-2 vinyl pyridine and with methyl metha-crylate-2-vinyl pyridine mixtures. Grafting was readily carried out directly on the unmodified films by the mutual irradiation method. Tetrachlorethylene was used as the main swelling agent to accelerate grafting to cellulose acetate, and dimethyl formamide mixed with methanol was used to swell the polyoxetane films. After grafting, the films were quaternized or formed into the hydrochloride salt and their reverse osmosis properties studied. The cellulose acetate films showed different behavior from both the straight vinyl pyridine copolymer films and those grafted with either monomer above. Fluxes were found to steadily increase with increasing vinyl pyridine content of the grafted side chains. The salt rejections, on the other hand, behaved differently. For example, with a thirty percent total graft and increasing the proportion of vinyl pyridine in the graft composition the salt rejections remained constant, at greater than 99%, until the vinyl pyridine content exceeded 15% in the grafted copolymer after which they began to decline. Thus, high flux membranes with good salt rejection could be obtained. Preliminary results (on the corresponding polyoxetane and polyvinyl chloride films) indicate somewhat similar behavior to that found with cellulose acetate.
The Harm Principle Cannot Replace the Best Interest Standard: Problems With Using the Harm Principle for Medical Decision Making for Children

For many years the prevailing paradigm for medical decision making for children has been the best interest standard. Recently, some authors have proposed that Mill’s “harm principle” should be used...