cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Overcoming gas ionization limitations with divided-pulse nonlinear compression

We simulate Kerr and plasma nonlinearities in a hollow-core fiber to show how plasma effects degrade the output pulse. Our simulations predict the plasma effects can be avoided entirely by implementing divided-pulse nonlinear compression. In divided-pulse nonlinear compression, a high-energy pulse is divided into multiple low-energy pulses, which are spectrally broadened in the hollow-core fiber and then recombined into a high-energy, spectrally broadened pulse. With the plasma effects overcome, spectral broadening can be scaled to larger broadening factors and higher pulse energies. We anticipate this method will also be useful to scale spectral broadening in gas-filled multipass cells.
Discharge Opioid Prescription Patterns After Kidney Cancer Surgery.

Abstract Objective To describe opioid prescribing patterns for patients undergoing kidney cancer surgery and evaluate associations with medical resource utilization in the postoperative setting. Methods Linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results - Medicare data were used to identify patients with kidney cancer who underwent partial or radical nephrectomy (open vs. minimally invasive) from 2007 to 2015. Total dose of discharge opioid prescriptions was quantified into 3 exposure groups based on observed tertiles: 1-199 (low), 200-300 (moderate), and >300 (high) oral morphine milligram equivalents. Associations between exposure groups and patient demographics, clinical factors, and hospital volumes were measured using multivariate logistic regression. Additionally, we identified associations with prior opioid exposure and postoperative medical resource utilization. Results Of 4538 patients meeting inclusion criteria, exposure group distributions were 35% (low), 43.5% (moderate) and 21.6% (high). Over one-third of patients (39.5%) received an opioid prescription within 6 months preceding surgery. High opioid prescriptions were associated with prior exposure, younger age, rural residence and open surgery (P Conclusion Prescribing patterns after kidney cancer surgery vary widely. Higher prescribed dose of post-surgical opioids is associated with 90-day hospital readmissions and long-term exposure. Prior opioid exposure conveys a higher risk of medical resource utilization. More judicious opioid prescribing may limit medical resource utilization and help combat the opioid epidemic.
Health Literacy, Medication Adherence, and Quality of Life in Patients With Uveitis.

Purpose: To evaluate health literacy, medication adherence, and quality of life (QOL) in uveitis patients.Methods: Cross-sectional quality improvement study using questionnaires of health literacy (Short Assessment of Health Literacy), adherence (Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire), and QOL (12-item Short Form Health Survey).Results: Sixty patients were surveyed: 57% women, 80% identified as Black, and 42% with schooling beyond high school. Forty-three percent of the patients had poor health literacy, with lower scores among those with less schooling (p < .01). Necessity scores were higher for multiple providers (p = .02). Necessity (p = .03) and Concerns (p < .01) scores were higher for patients seeing a rheumatologist. Patients had lower physical (p < .01) and mental QOL (p < .01) than the general US population.Conclusions: Uveitis patients reported many barriers to care. Despite strong perceptions of treatment necessity, there were significant concerns, especially among patients seeing a rheumatologist. We recommend multidisciplinary care, individualized education, and counseling regarding medication safety and the necessity to improve adherence.
The association of California's Proposition 56 tobacco tax increase with smoking behavior across racial and ethnic groups and by income.

Author(s): Keeler, Courtney; Wang, Yingning; Max, Wendy; Yao, Tingting; Gu, Dian; Sung, Hai-Yen | Abstract: Introduction:nOn April 1, 2017, California Proposition 56 (Prop 56) was implemented, increasing the excise tax on cigarettes by $2/pack. This study compares the association of Prop 56 with smoking prevalence and smoking intensity across racial/ethnic groups, further examining distinctions across income subgroups within each racial/ethnic group.Methods:nThe study used pooled cross-sectional data from the 2012-2018 California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. We examined two outcomes: current smoking prevalence and smoking intensity conditional on current smoking. A two-part econometric model was used to estimate the association of Prop 56 with smoking prevalence and intensity using multiple logistic regression and multiple linear regression, respectively. The two-part model was run separately for all adults (full sample) and each racial/ethnic group. Within each racial/ethnic group, we ran stratified analyses by income subgroups.Results:nThe results indicated that Prop 56 was negatively associated with smoking prevalence among full-sample, Hispanic, White, and African American adults; and negatively associated with smoking intensity among full-sample and White smokers. Stratified analyses by race/ethnicity and income showed that Prop 56 was negatively associated with smoking prevalence among low-income full-sample and White adults and among middle-income smokers in the full, Hispanic, White, African American, and Asian samples. Prop 56 was negatively associated with smoking intensity among middle-income Hispanic and high-income White smokers. The association between Prop 56 and smoking intensity was positive among high-income African American smokers.Conclusion:nProp 56 was associated with a reduction in smoking prevalence across multiple racial/ethnic groups, particularly within the low- and middle-income subgroups.Policy implications:nOur findings indicate that the reduction in smoking prevalence immediately following the implementation of California Proposition 56 tobacco tax increase was significant across a variety racial/ethnic groups, particularly low- and middle-income subgroups. We found differential responses in smoking prevalence across income groups among Whites but not among racial/ethnic minorities. We found no evidence of any significance association between Proposition 56 and smoking intensity among minorities and economically vulnerable populations, except for middle-income Hispanics. Researchers, policymakers, and advocates should consider additional merits of targeted, community-based, non-economic tobacco control interventions in reaching low- and middle-income groups within racial/ethnic minorities.
Etheno adducts: from tRNA modifications to DNA adducts and back to miscoding ribonucleotides

Etheno (and ethano) derivatives of nucleic acid bases have an extra 5-membered ring attached. These were first noted as wyosine bases in tRNAs. Some were fluorescent, and the development of etheno derivatives of adenosine, cytosine, and guanosine led to the synthesis of fluorescent analogs of ATP, NAD+, and other cofactors for use in biochemical studies. Early studies with the carcinogen vinyl chloride revealed that these modified bases were being formed in DNA and RNA and might be responsible for mutations and cancer. The etheno bases are also derived from other carcinogenic vinyl monomers. Further work showed that endogenous etheno DNA adducts were present in animals and humans and are derived from lipid peroxidation. The chemical mechanisms of etheno adduct formation involve reactions with bis-electrophiles generated by cytochrome P450 enzymes or lipid peroxidation, which have been established in isotopic labeling studies. The mechanisms by which etheno DNA adducts miscode have been studied with several DNA polymerases, aided by the X-ray crystal structures of these polymerases in mispairing situations and in extension beyond mispairs. Repair of etheno DNA adduct damage is done primarily by glycosylases and also by the direct action of dioxygenases. Some human DNA polymerases (η, κ) can insert bases opposite etheno adducts in DNA and RNA, and the reverse transcriptase activity may be of relevance with the RNA etheno adducts. Further questions involve the extent that the etheno adducts contribute to human cancer.
Clinical Translation and Evaluation of a Handheld and Biocompatible Mass Spectrometry Probe for Surgical Use.

BACKGROUND Intraoperative tissue analysis and identification are critical to guide surgical procedures and improve patient outcomes. Here, we describe the clinical translation and evaluation of the MasSpec Pen technology for molecular analysis of in vivo and freshly excised tissues in the operating room (OR). METHODS An Orbitrap mass spectrometer equipped with a MasSpec Pen interface was installed in an OR. A "dual-path" MasSpec Pen interface was designed and programmed for the clinical studies with 2 parallel systems that facilitated the operation of the MasSpec Pen. The MasSpec Pen devices were autoclaved before each surgical procedure and were used by surgeons and surgical staff during 100 surgeries over a 12-month period. RESULTS Detection of mass spectral profiles from 715 in vivo and ex vivo analyses performed on thyroid, parathyroid, lymph node, breast, pancreatic, and bile duct tissues during parathyroidectomies, thyroidectomies, breast, and pancreatic neoplasia surgeries was achieved. The MasSpec Pen enabled gentle extraction and sensitive detection of various molecular species including small metabolites and lipids using a droplet of sterile water without causing apparent tissue damage. Notably, effective molecular analysis was achieved while no limitations to sequential histologic tissue analysis were identified and no device-related complications were reported for any of the patients. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that the MasSpec Pen system can be successfully incorporated into the OR, allowing direct detection of rich molecular profiles from tissues with a seconds-long turnaround time that could be used to inform surgical and clinical decisions without disrupting tissue analysis workflows.
The Relationship of Psychiatric Comorbidities and Their Impact on Trigger Site Deactivation Surgery for Headaches.

Background Patients seeking trigger site deactivation surgery for headaches often have debilitating symptoms that can affect their functional and mental health. Although prior studies have shown a strong correlation between psychiatric variables and chronic headaches, their associations in patients undergoing surgery have not been fully elucidated. This study aims to analyze psychiatric comorbidities and their impact on patients undergoing trigger site deactivation surgery for headaches. Methods One hundred forty-two patients were prospectively enrolled. Patients were asked to complete the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 and Migraine Headache Index surveys preoperatively and at 12 months postoperatively. Data on psychiatric comorbidities were collected by means of both survey and retrospective chart review. Results Preoperatively, 38 percent of patients self-reported a diagnosis of depression, and 45 percent of patients met Patient Health Questionnaire-2 criteria for likely major depressive disorder (Patient Health Questionnaire-2 score of ≥3). Twenty-seven percent of patients reported a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. Patients with depression and anxiety reported more severe headache symptoms at baseline. At 1 year postoperatively, patients with these conditions had successful surgical outcomes comparable to those of patients without these conditions. Patients also reported a significant decrease in their Patient Health Questionnaire-2 score, with 22 percent of patients meeting criteria suggestive of depression, compared to 45 percent preoperatively. Conclusions There is a high prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients undergoing trigger site deactivation surgery. Patients with these comorbid conditions achieve successful surgical outcomes comparable to those of the general surgical headache population. Furthermore, trigger site deactivation surgery is associated with a significant decrease in depressive symptoms.
MO-B-BRB-02: Maintain the Quality of Treatment Planning for Time-Constraint Cases

The radiotherapy treatment planning process has evolved over the years with innovations in treatment planning, treatment delivery and imaging systems. Treatment modality and simulation technologies are also rapidly improving and affecting the planning process. For example, Image-guided-radiation-therapy has been widely adopted for patient setup, leading to margin reduction and isocenter repositioning after simulation. Stereotactic Body radiation therapy (SBRT) and Radiosurgery (SRS) have gradually become the standard of care for many treatment sites, which demand a higher throughput for the treatment plans even if the number of treatments per day remains the same. Finally, simulation, planning and treatment are traditionally sequential events. However, with emerging adaptive radiotherapy, they are becoming more tightly intertwined, leading to iterative processes. Enhanced efficiency of planning is therefore becoming more critical and poses serious challenge to the treatment planning process; Lean Six Sigma approaches are being utilized increasingly to balance the competing needs for speed and quality. In this symposium we will discuss the treatment planning process and illustrate effective techniques for managing workflow. Topics will include: 1. Planning techniques: (a) beam placement, (b) dose optimization, (c) plan evaluation (d) export to RVS. 2. Planning workflow: (a) import images, (b) Image fusion, (c) contouring, (d) plan approval (e) plan check (f) chart check, (g) sequential and iterative process 3. Influence of upstream and downstream operations: (a) simulation, (b) immobilization, (c) motion management, (d) QA, (e) IGRT, (f) Treatment delivery, (g) SBRT/SRS (h) adaptive planning 4. Reduction of delay between planning steps with Lean systems due to (a) communication, (b) limited resource, (b) contour, (c) plan approval, (d) treatment. 5. Optimizing planning processes: (a) contour validation (b) consistent planning protocol, (c) protocol/template sharing, (d) semi-automatic plan evaluation, (e) quality checklist for error prevention, (f) iterative process, (g) balance of speed and quality Learning Objectives: 1. Gain familiarity with the workflow of modern treatment planning process. 2. Understand the scope and challenges of managing modern treatment planning processes. 3. Gain familiarity with Lean Six Sigma approaches and their implementation in the treatment planning workflow.
Routine Cognitive Screening in a General Neurology Clinic: Impact on Physician Behavior (P2.167)

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether routine cognitive screening impacts dementia management in a general neurology clinic. BACKGROUND: Cognitive screening with the MiniCog (MC) has previously been utilized by primary care to increase dementia detection, but only 17% of physicians took appropriate action with abnormal test results. Our hypothesis was that within a general neurology practice, where dementia care was routine, cognitive screening would have a greater likelihood of impacting provider decision-making. This study was conducted to investigate 1.) feasibility of cognitive screening in a neurology clinic and 2.) impact on dementia management. DESIGN/METHODS: Patients aged 蠅70 without a cognitive disorder history underwent cognitive screening with the MC (scored 0-5, failing < 4) administered by neurology rooming nurses. Data from a prospective chart review of the electronic medical record (EMR) over the 18 months post-screening was collected and included the following variables: 1.) MC score, 2.) demographics, 3.) dementia evaluation (referrals for neuroimaging, neuropsychology, and dementia clinic), 4.) dementia diagnosis, and 5.) initiation of dementia specific treatment. RESULTS: A total of 356 patients underwent MC screening, and the average patient age was 78.4. Although 32.3% of patients (n=121) failed the evaluation, only 1.7% were provided a formal dementia diagnosis. Of the patients failing the MC, 41.3% were referred for neuroimaging (CT or MRI), 9.1% for neuropsychological testing, and 5% for evaluation by a dementia clinic. Either donepezil or memantine was initiated in 12.4% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: Dementia screening with the MC is feasible within a general neurology practice. Failure rates were higher compared to those previously published in primary care, which may represent increased prevalence of comorbidities impacting cognition. Despite a relatively higher percentage of screen failures, only a minority of subjects received a diagnosis or additional work-up with neuropsychological testing and diagnostic imaging. Results suggest that cognitive screening in a general neurology practice has a negligible impact on clinical decision-making. Study Supported by: A12018 HEALTHPARTNERS INSTITUTE Disclosure: Dr. Rosenbloom has nothing to disclose. Dr. Barclay has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pyle has nothing to disclose. Dr. Cagan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hanson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hanson has nothing to disclose.
A test of unbiasedness and sports book profits in the NFL point spread betting market using circadian advantage.

Medical research shows that the human body typically performs at its best during late afternoon hours, and that the results of National Football League (NFL) games can partly be explained by differences in these levels of performance, coined the circadian advantage, when teams based in different time zones play against each other. This paper uses an augmented version of Dare and Holland’s (2004) generalized model to provide evidence that a circadian advantage bias exists in the NFL betting market. Detailed betting data used here supports results from Levitt (2004) and Paul and Weinbach (2007) by showing that sports books make use of the bias by setting odds that bait bettors who are unaware of the circadian advantage into making what tends to be a losing wager on the disadvantaged team.
Properties and Developmental Roles of the Lysyl- and Tryptophanyl-Transfer Ribonucleic Acid Synthetases of Bacillus subtilis: Common Genetic Origin of the Corresponding Spore and Vegetative Enzymes

The lysyl-transfer ribonucleic acid synthetase (LRS) and tryptophanyl-transfer ribonucleic acid synthetases (TRS) (l-lysine:tRNA ligase [AMP], EC 6.1.1.6; and l-tryptophan:tRNA ligase [AMP], EC 6.1.1.2) have been purified 60- and 100-fold, respectively, from vegetative cells and spores of Bacillus subtilis. There are no significant differences between the corresponding spore and vegetative enzymes with respect to their elution characteristics from columns of phosphocellulose or hydroxylapatite, their molecular weight (~130,000 for LRS and ~87,000 for TRS as determined by gel filtration), their kinetic constants for substrates (in the amino acid-dependent adenosine triphosphate-pyrophosphate exchange reaction), and the kinetics of inactivation by heat and by antibody. The Mg2+ requirement for optimal enzyme activity of the corresponding spore and vegetative enzyme differ slightly. Mutants having defective (temperature sensitive) vegetative LRS or TRS activities produce spores in which these enzymes are also defective. The mutant spores are more heat sensitive than the parental type, but contain normal levels of dipicolinic acid. They germinate normally at the restrictive temperature (43 C), but are blocked at specific developmental stages in outgrowth. No modification in temperature sensitivity phenotype occurs during outgrowth, nor is there a change in molecular weight of the two enzymes. The implication is that the LRS and TRS activities of the vegetative and spore stages are each coded (at least in part) by the same structural gene. The temperature sensitivity of mutant spores is discussed with respect to those factors which are involved in the formation of the heat-resistant state.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid Polymerase(s) of Rous Sarcoma Virus: Effects of Virion-Associated Endonuclease on the Enzymatic Product

Purified preparations of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) contain ribonuclease which is either a constituent of the virion surface or an adsorbed contaminant. Treatment of the virus with nonionic detergent to activate ribonucleic acid (RNA)-dependent deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) polymerase renders the viral genome susceptible to hydrolysis by the external ribonuclease. The extent of this susceptibility can be substantially reduced by the use of limited amounts of detergent. At a concentration of detergent which provides a maximum initial rate of DNA synthesis, the degradation of endogenous viral RNA results in a reduced yield of high molecular weight DNA: RNA hybrid from the polymerase reaction. Attempts to detect virion-associated deoxyribonuclease, by using a variety of double helical DNA species as substrates, have been unsuccessful, but small amounts of nuclease activity directed against single-stranded DNA may be present in purified virus.
Crystal structures of imidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ‘ionic liquid’ salts: the first organic salt with a cis-TFSI anion conformation

Crystal structures of two examples of an important class of ionic liquids, 1,3-dimethylimidazolium and 1,2,3-triethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide have been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The anion in the 1,3-dimethylimidazolium example (mp 22 °C), adopts an unusual cis-geometry constrained by bifurcated cation–anion C–H⋯O hydrogen-bonds from the imidazolium cation to the anion resulting in the formation of fluorous layers within the solid-state structure. In contrast, in the 1,2,3-triethylimidazolium salt (mp 57 °C), the ions are discretely packed with only weak C–H⋯O contacts between the ions close to the van der Waals separation distances, and with the anion adopting the twisted conformation observed for all other examples from the limited set of organic bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide crystal structures. The structures are discussed in terms of the favorable physical properties that bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide anions impart in ionic liquids.
Central Nervous System (CNS)

Modern clinical trials have revolutionized the practice of neurology. This introduction examines some of the issues and challenges involved in therapeutic trials for six common conditions that affect the central nervous system (ischemic stroke, Alzheimer's disease, migraine headache, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis) and explores how trials in these areas influence clinical practice. Examples of ongoing trials in each of these areas are also identified. Keywords: clinical trials; central nervous system diseases
RBECS-an additional tool in the commander's software arsenal

The Revised Battlefield Electronic CEOI System (RBECS) is a software package fielded to supplant the paper booklet signal operation instructions (SOIs), communication electronics operation instructions (CEOIs), and other changing call sign and frequency systems used by the Armed Services and obtained from the National Security Agency (NSA). This paper describes the RBECS software package, its development, its functionality, and how it will supplant the familiar NSA-produced, paper-based changing frequency and call sign systems. It is a chronicle of a PC application superseding an industrial based publication/production effort of considerable size with a budget to match, while simultaneously improving field capabilities. >
Experimental demonstration of optical processor-memory interconnection

In this work, we experimentally demonstrated the feasibility and performance of an optically-connected processor-memory system. An emulated CPU with the on-chip memory controller was implemented on a high-speed FPGA evaluation board, which communicated with another SRAM module through independent Rocket IO transceivers connected by a 2.5 Gb/s optical channel. Data integrity and error-free performance are verified with a sequence of SRAM write and read operations.
EARLY MECHANISMS OF HOMEOSTASIS AFTER HEMORRHAGE IN MAN.

Summary Studies of hematocrit dilution, osmolar changes, electrolyte excretion and water balance were carried out over short intervals in the early period following withdrawal of approximately 500 cc. of blood in human volunteers. The results indicated a “biphasic” dilutional response. The first phase is extremely rapid, being evident at the end of the hemorrhage and maximal in 30 to 45 minutes. It represents absorption of protein-free isotonic solution from the interstitial space. This fluid is to a considerable extent lost again through renal excretion as indicated by increased urine volume, glomerular filtration rate and a secondary rise in hematocrit, which occurs between 30 and 120 minutes. A more permanent phase of volume reconstitution is then achieved apparently by the addition of protein-rich fluid during the interval of 2 to 24 hours. Comparison of free water clearance and Na:K ratio suggests that antidiuretic hormone is mobilized very early in the response to hemorrhage, and aldosterone somewhat later.
Devil's staircases, quantum dimer models, and stripe formation in strong coupling models of quantum frustration

We construct a two-dimensional microscopic model of interacting quantum dimers that displays an infinite number of periodic striped phases in its $T=0$ phase diagram. The phases form an incomplete devil's staircase and the period becomes arbitrarily large as the staircase is traversed. The Hamiltonian has purely short-range interactions, does not break any symmetries of the underlying square lattice, and is generic in that it does not involve the fine-tuning of a large number of parameters. Our model, a quantum mechanical analog of the Pokrovsky-Talapov model of fluctuating domain walls in two-dimensional classical statistical mechanics, provides a mechanism by which striped phases with large periods compared to the lattice spacing can, in principle, form in frustrated quantum magnetic systems with only short-ranged interactions and no explicitly broken symmetries.
Trichomoniasis in a dairy herd: Control by artificial insemination and prostaglandin F2α treatment

Abstract Trichomoniasis was diagnosed as the cause of first and second trimester abortions in a dairy herd. The original herd sire, a 72-mo-old Holstein bull, was removed 4 mo prior to diagnosis of trichomoniasis. The infection was maintained within the herd and further transmitted by a 24-mo-old Holstein replacement bull during this 4-mo period. Removal of the 24-mo-old bull from the herd and exclusive reliance on artificial insemination with semen approved by Certified Semen Services resolved the infection in this herd, although abortion due to Tritrichomonas fetus continued to occur for 4 mo after removal of the 24-mo-old Holstein sire. Prostaglandin F2α (25 mg intramuscularly) was administered twice, 10 d apart to four cows with clinical pyometra due to Tritrichomonas fetus in this herd. All four cases were clinically normal when examined 10 d after the second treatment. Three cows were artificially inseminated with Certified Semen Services (CSS) approved semen after treatment. Pyometra recurred in two of these cows. Trichomonads were demonstrated in the uterine fluid of both of these latter cows when pyometra recurred, indicating infection had persisted despite prostaglandin treatment. Prostaglandin F2α, therefore, can be used to assist in the expulsion of fluid and reestablishment of regular estrous cycles in cases of pyometra due to Tritrichomonas fetus, but genital tract infection with Tritrichomonas fetus can persist despite prostaglandin treatment.
Ellipsoidal Techniques for Reachability Analysis of Discrete-Time Linear Systems

This paper describes the computation of reach sets for discrete-time linear control systems with time-varying coefficients and ellipsoidal bounds on the controls and initial conditions. The algorithms construct external and internal ellipsoidal approximations that touch the reach set boundary from outside and from inside. Recurrence relations describe the time evolution of these approximations. An essential part of the paper deals with singular discrete-time linear systems
THE USE OF CARBOHYDRATES TO BLOCK THE ATTACHMENT OF PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA TO EPITHELIAL CELLS. • 2290

THE USE OF CARBOHYDRATES TO BLOCK THE ATTACHMENT OF PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA TO EPITHELIAL CELLS. • 2290
Cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis in Nijmegen breakage syndrome

The aim of the study was to present rarely reported neurologic complications in Nijmegen breakage syndrome. A 13-year-old female was referred because of chronic progressive headaches. There were dysmorphic features on physical examination, which suggested a diagnosis of chromosomal instability syndrome. The results of genetic and immunologic examinations confirmed the diagnosis. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging revealed an 8 mm thickening of the meninges over the left hemisphere, corresponding with a chronic inflammatory condition, and symptoms of left cavernous thrombophlebitis were detected. Cerebrospinal fluid examination and an infusion test demonstrated disorders in its absorption. Antibiotic, anticoagulant and cerebral edema treatment was given and after 1 week improvement was observed. Regression of symptoms occurred after 14 days.
IL-4 and IL-10 inhibition of IFN-γ- and TNF-α-dependent nitric oxide production from bovine mononuclear phagocytes exposed to Babesia bovis merozoites

The requirement for IFN-gamma and/or TNF-alpha as co-stimulants with Babesia bovis merozoites for nitric oxide (NO) production was examined, as well as the regulatory role of IL-4 and IL-10. Purified B. bovis merozoites did not induce the production of NO in undifferentiated monocytes without addition of exogenous IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha unless the monocytes taken ex vivo were producing TNF-alpha endogenously. Under the latter condition, the NO production resulting from merozoite stimulation remained IFN-gamma-dependent. There was no evidence for endogenous synthesis of TNF-alpha in monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM), and merozoites alone were incapable of inducing TNF-alpha mRNA in MDM. However, while merozoites plus IFN-gamma induced TNF-alpha mRNA expression in MDM, NO was not produced. Both IL-4 and IL-10 inhibited expression of iNOS and production of NO in merozoite-stimulated monocytes.
'We Are Going to Rape You and Taste Tutsi Women': Rape during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide

Over the past decades, scholars have paid greater attention to sexual violence, in both theorization and empirical analysis. One area that has been largely ignored, however, is sexual violence during times of armed conflict. This paper examines the nature and dynamics of sexual violence as it occurred during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Drawing upon testimonies given to the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), descriptions of rapes--both singular and mass--were qualitatively analysed. In general, three broad types of assaults were identified: opportunistic assaults, which seemed to be a product of the disorder inherent within the conflict; episodes of sexual enslavement; and genocidal rapes, which were framed by the broader genocidal endeavours occurring at the time.
Synthesis and biological activity of 25,26-dihydroxycholecalciferol

Abstract 25,26-Dihydroxycholecalciferol (25,26-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 ), a metabolite of vitamin D3 preferentially active on intestine has been synthesized. This compound was prepared by converting 3β-hydroxy-27-norcholest-5-en-25-one to 25,26-epoxy-5-cholesten-3β-o1 and base-catalyzed hydrolysis of the latter to 5-cholestene-3β,25,26-triol; allylic bromination of the corresponding triacetate, and dehydrobromination gave the required 5,7-diene which yielded the vitamin derivative upon photolysis (Figure 3). The synthetic product shows the same activity pattern as the natural metabolite: at dose levels of 0.25 μg, the compound stimulates intestinal calcium transport, but has no effect on bone calcium mobilization in rats maintained on a vitamin D-deficient, low calcium didt. Higher doses (2.5 μg) elicit a more pronounced intestinal calcium transport response, but also have no significant effect on the bone mobilization system. The compound exhibits no biologial activity in nephrectomized animals.
Upgrades for the PHENIX data acquisition system

PHENIX [1] is one of two large experiments at Brookhaven National Laboratory's Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC). At the time of this conference, the Run 10 of RHIC is in progress and has generated about a PetaByte of raw data. The following summer shutdown marks the begin of the installation of the PHENIX upgrade detectors, the first of which will be commissioned for the upcoming Run 11. In order to accommodate the new detectors in the PHENIX data acquisition, we will start to implement significant changes to the system, such as the switch to a new generation of readout electronics, and the move to 10 Gigabit Ethernet for the components with the highest data volume. Once fully installed, the new detectors will about triple the current maximum data rate from about 600MB/s to 1.8 GB/s.
In situ Atomic Force Microscopy Imaging of Electroprecipitated Nickel Hydrous Oxide Films in Alkaline Electrolytes

In situ atomic force microscopy images of nickel hydrous oxide films electrodeposited on the basal plane of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite in alkaline electrolytes have shown that a stepwise oxidation leads to irreversible formation of wide crevices throughout the material. Upon subsequent stepwise reduction, the gaps close leaving a hairline type crack which follows the profile of the crevice. These potential induced structural rearrangements have been attributed to stresses induced by differences in the densities of the nickel hydrous oxide in the two oxidation states. 9 refs., 5 figs.
Thalamic connections to insular and opercular cortex of monkey.

Subpial resection of insular and opercular cortex was performed in ten hemispheres of six macaque monkeys. Retrograde degeneration was studied in myelin and cresyl violet stained serial sections of whole brain specimens follwing survival of 12 to 15 months. Lesions restricted to teh insula, effectively sparing the orelying opercula, caused no retrograde degenration in thalamus. Specifically, nucleus ventralis anterior, nucleus ventralis posteromedialis pars parvocelluliaris, and nucleus ventralis posterior inferior were normal. Lesions which involved orbitofrontal cortex produced the expected degeneration of the ventral division of paralamellar nucleus medialis dorsalis (medialis dorsalis pars multiformis). Surprisingly, minimal but unequivocal degeneration was seen in this nucleus when lesiions were restricted to the superior temporal plane; it was more marked when the parietal operculum was included in the lesion. With destruction of the white matter of the parietal or frontal operculum, degeneration was apparent surrounding the centrum medianum, most conspicuously in ventral paralamellar medialis dorsalis and parvocelular nucleus ventralis posteromedialis. Increased gliosis without nerve cell destruction in the basomedial part of nucleus ventralis anterior was present in two specimens with anterior insular ablatioins presumably as the result of interruption of cortico-thalamic projections from orbitofrontal cortex.
Long-term efficacy of triple oral therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Objective: To report the status of 35 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus approximately 3 years after the initiation of triple oral antidiabetic therapy--with a sulfonylurea, metformin, and a thiazolidinedione. Methods: Study patients were assessed for the need for the addition of insulin, and follow-up clinical and laboratory findings were analyzed. Results: At a mean follow-up of 37 months (range, 18 to 45), 26 (74%) of 35 patients (group A) had well-controlled blood glucose levels on triple oral therapy, with a mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) value of 6.9 &#45 0.3% (upper limit of normal, 6.5%). In the nine other patients (group B), triple oral therapy failed and the use of insulin was necessary after a mean duration of 30 months (range, 18 to 42); the mean HbA1c in these patients was 8.8 &#45 0.5%. Both group A and B gained similar amounts of weight during the study period (14.2 &#45 2.1 lb versus 11.6 &#45 3.8 lb, respectively; P = 0.54). A search for potential predictors of success or failure re...
Dialectics of the family life cycle

Abstract The purpose of this paper was twofold. First, the family life cycle was conceptualized in terms of four interacting models of development. These models were based on Riegel's scheme of human development. Secondly, Riegel's concept of “synchronizing reinterpretation” and life cycle transition was explored in terms of second-order or paradoxical change. Second-order change is grounded in a dialectical theory of change. It was suggested how a dialectical approach to the family life cycle may enhance theoretical conceptions, research paradigms, and clinical interventions with families.
Facial and vocal cues of deception and honesty

Abstract Facial expressions and vocal cues (filtered speech) of honest and deceptive messages were examined in posed and spontaneous situations. The question of interest was the degree to which nonverbal cues transmit information about deception. Results indicated that (a) for both the facial and vocal channels, posing (as compared to spontaneous behavior) produced a higher level of communication accuracy; (b) facial expressions of deceptive (as compared to honest) messages were rated as less pleasant, while vocal expressions of deception were rated as less honest, less assertive, and less dominant, particularly in the posed condition; (c) the sender's ability to convey honesty was negatively correlated with his/her ability to convey deception, suggesting the existence of a demeanor bias—individual senders tend to appear and sound consistently honest (or dishonest) regardless of whether they deliver an honest or a deceptive message; (d) in the posing condition, the sender's abilities to convey honesty/deception via facial and vocal cues were positively and significantly correlated, whereas in the spontaneous condition they were not; and (e) senders whose full (unfiltered) speech indicated more involvement with their responses were judged as more honest from both their vocal (filtered speech) and facial cues, in both the honest and deceptive conditions.
Obstructive sleep apnea in pregnancy: reliability of prevalence and prediction estimates.

We sought to ascertain the validity of two screening scales for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pregnancy and to establish the prevalence of OSA in pregnancy. In this prospective observational study, two screening scales were administered. Screen positive subjects were referred for diagnostic polysomnography (PSG); if admitted for antepartum care, screen positive subjects underwent a modified study with a type 3 device (T3D). A total of 1509 subjects underwent OSA screening; 58 completed diagnostic testing. Neither measure was a reliable diagnostic tool for OSA as determined by T3D or PSG (detection rates of 10.3% and 18.0%, respectively). Among screen positive subjects undergoing PSG or T3D testing, 15.5% ultimately met ‘gold standard’ OSA diagnostic criteria for an estimated point prevalence of 4.9%. In this prospective trial, screening positive on the Berlin questionnaire or Epworth sleepiness scale was poorly predictive of OSA among gravidae and was associated with a high false referral rate.
Is a high protein intake harmful to the aging human kidney

While very little information is available to help us understand the effects of variable protein intakes on the development of the glomerulosclerosis associated with aging, one can speculate (1) by knowing the effects of different protein intakes on glomerular hemodynamics associated with normal aging, and (2) by observing in animal models (remnant kidney) and human disease states (diabetes, hypertension, chronic renal disease), the changes in glomerular pathology associated with changes in glomerular hemodynamics sustained for long periods. Elevated glomerular capillary pressures, glomerular hypertropy, and increased glomerular permselective properties, as evidenced by increases in urinary protein excretion, are the glomerular abnormalities most consistently associated with the development of glomerular sclerosis. This is best demonstrated in man by the patient with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and nephropathy. Measurements of renal hemodynamics in man are insufficiently precise, however, to define changes in glomerular capillary pressure, since changes in ultrafiltration coefficent and renal blood flow distribution may occur concurrently so that most conclusions must be drawn from micropuncture studies in animal models. A low protein intake appears to decrease glomerular capillary pressure by normalizing (increasing) afferent arteriolar resistance. Nevertheless, even though there is evidence that decreasing protein intake in diabetics and individuals with compromised renal function slows the progression of glomerular sclerosis and loss of residual renal function, there is insufficient evidence to justify universal protein restriction in aged individuals, even if renal function is moderately decreased. More important is the control of hypertension. Drugs like the ACE inhibitors reduce glomerular intercapillary pressure by decreasing efferent glomerular arteriolar resistance even though this may further reduce the glomerular filtration rate initially.
Optimization of buffer layers for lattice-mismatched epitaxy of GaxIn1−xAs/InAsyP1−y double-heterostructures on InP

Abstract We optimize InAs y P 1− y buffer layers and compositional grades for lattice-mismatched heteroepitaxy of Ga x In 1− x As/InAs y P 1− y double-heterostructures on InP. The strains of the active and buffer layers depend on the bulk misfit difference between these layers. The misfit difference is adjusted to eliminate strain in the active layer, thus avoiding misfit dislocations and surface topography that would otherwise form to relieve strain. The optimized structure uses an “overshoot” with respect to the conventional design in the misfit and As composition of the InAs y P 1− y buffer. Nearly optimized heterostructures typically show excellent structural quality and extended minority-carrier lifetimes.
An integrative, synergistic reading of Romans 1-3

The purpose of this article is to analyze a theme cluster that meanders through the narrative fabric of Romans 1-3—the justice of God and the justice and injustice of people. The article (1) describes the literary scope and theological content of the theme cluster statements; (2) examines the plausibility of a relationship between humans and God; (3) critiques traditional interpretations of Paul's diverse descriptions of conduct; and (4) explains the intricacies of the theme cluster from the perspective of “synergy.” As a contextual reading strategy, synergy explores the complementary nature of the theme cluster. The analysis leads to the conclusion: a pessimistic anthropology attributed to Paul overshadows his statements about human and divine justice.
Intersubband resonant effects of dissipative transport in quantum wires

Etude des effets de diffusion inelastique des phonons optiques et acoustiques dans des systemes quasi unidimensionnels ayant jusqu'a 20 sous-bandes. Les simulations Monte Carlo realisees sur des structures resonnantes du premier, second et troisieme ordre, entre 150 et 300 K, revelent l'apparition de proprietes de transport dissipatif. Des non-linearites dans la distribution electronique induisent des fluctuations de vitesse analogues a un effet magnetophonon longitudinal
Progesterone regulation of secretory component (SC): uterine SC response in organ culture following in vivo hormone treatment.

Abstract Sex steroid hormones are known to have profound effects on mucosal immunity. In the present study we evaluated the effects of progesterone on the uterine immune system by determining the changes in the levels of secretory component (SC) released from uterine tissues in culture following in vivo administration of progesterone to estradiol-stimulated ovariectomized rats. SC is a transport protein which moves IgA into external secretions such as intestinal and uterine secretions. SC release was determined by radioimmunoassay of the culture medium collected 24 h after introduction of uterine tissues into medium with or without cycloheximide. The net production of SC was reduced following progesterone administration. Reduction in SC levels followed a dose dependency and occurred irrespective of whether the progesterone was given before or during treatment with estradiol. These results support the hypothesis that progesterone plays a direct role in suppression of uterine SC production and release. ft∗|Present address: Department of Maternal and Child Health, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover, NH 03756, U.S.A.
Robotic Air Vehicle: A Pilot's Perspective

This paper focuses on concepts and technologies required to develop a robotic air vehicle (RAV). A vehicle of this type has the capability to be a launch and forget weapon system. The authors are engineers and pilots so they view both the technical approach and piloting issues with equal importance. RAV must have the machine intelligence to make decisions within the mission and battlefield constraints. This requires a piloting expert system and route planner to perform passive terrain following, terrain avoidance, obstacle avoidance, and autonomous navigation based on low cost sensor inputs such as a multifunction FLIR, digital terrain map, and directional reference systems. RAV is a cost effective way to fight in a threat environment where aircrew loss rates would be unacceptable. RAV provides the Air Force a means to expand its combat capabilities.
Crisis Reactions of College Freshmen As a Function of Family Support Systems

This study explored the relationship between family support system availability and crisis reactions of entering freshman college students. Self-report measures, including distance from home, anticipated weekend visits with family, and number of family relatives residing in the college community, were investigated in relation to the crisis variable. The availability of the student's family was inversely correlated with his or her crisis score. This article emphasizes the need for primary group support and discusses implications for intervention.
'URL 404 File Not Found': dealing with the transient nature of the Web.

The ‘URL File Not Found’ message is all too familiar to users seeking biomedical information on the Web, and occurs when a requested Web‐site is no longer available. The complex and dynamic nature of information flow is grounded in computer server technologies and makes the Web difficult to preserve. Enhancements in Web‐technologies are helping to improve the problem of Web‐site transience. Some initiatives to manage Web‐site loss include Google's memory cache, the Internet Archive with Wayback Machine, and Web‐site recording tools such as Internet Researcher.
Detection of simulated malingering using forced choice recognition enhanced with event-related potential recording

Abstract A modified forced-choice procedure (HFCP) based on that of Hiscock and Hiscock (1989) for use with suspected malingerers is described. The major modification involves recording of the P300 event-related brain potential in response to the screen to which the subject responds. This “probe” screen is, in turn, modified to contain either a match or a mismatch to the initial sample number, as opposed to having the subject choose the match from a pair of stimuli (match and mismatch) which are simultaneously presented in the standard HFCP. The P300 recording procedure necessitated this change, which also forces the subject to say “yes” or “no” (to match and mismatch, respectively), rather than choosing the match. We found that behavioral performance on the standard HFCP correlated highly and significantly with performance on the P300-enhanced HFCP. Three variants of the modified HFCP were explored. In all variants, P300 amplitude was significantly larger to the match than to the mismatch in standard gro...