cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
HIV Care Continuum among Postpartum Women Living with HIV in Atlanta.

Introduction. While increased healthcare engagement and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence occurs during pregnancy, women living with HIV (WLWH) are often lost to follow-up after delivery. We sought to evaluate postpartum retention in care and viral suppression and to identify associated factors among WLWH in a large public hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Methods. Data from the time of entry into prenatal care until 24 months postpartum were collected by chart review from WLWH who delivered with ≥20 weeks gestational age from 2011 to 2016. Primary outcomes were retention in HIV care (two HIV care visits or viral load measurements >90 days apart) and viral suppression (<200 copies/mL) at 12 and 24 months postpartum. Obstetric and contraception data were also collected. Results. Among 207 women, 80% attended an HIV primary care visit in a mean 124 days after delivery. At 12 and 24 months, respectively, 47% and 34% of women were retained in care and 41% and 30% of women were virally suppressed. Attending an HIV care visit within 90 days postpartum was associated with retention in care at 12 months (aOR 3.66, 95%CI 1.72-7.77) and 24 months (aOR 4.71, 95%CI 2.00-11.10) postpartum. Receiving ART at pregnancy diagnosis (aOR 2.29, 95%CI 1.11-4.74), viral suppression at delivery (aOR 3.44, 95%CI 1.39-8.50), and attending an HIV care visit within 90 days postpartum (aOR 2.40, 95%CI 1.12-5.16) were associated with 12-month viral suppression, and older age (aOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01-1.18) was associated with 24-month viral suppression. Conclusions. Long-term retention in HIV care and viral suppression are low in this population of postpartum WLWH. Prompt transition to HIV care in the postpartum period was the strongest predictor of optimal HIV outcomes. Efforts supporting women during the postpartum transition from obstetric to HIV primary care may improve long-term HIV outcomes in women.
HOUT-13. POSTOPERATIVE HEARING PRESERVATION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING RETROSIGMOID CRANIOTOMY FOR RESECTION OF VESTIBULAR SCHWANNOMAS: A META-ANALYSIS OF 1,249 PATIENTS

Author(s): Ong, Vera; Kwan, Isabelle | Advisor(s): Yang, Isaac | Abstract: Objective To investigate the estimated hearing preservation rates in patients with sporadic VS (vestibular schwannomas) after RS (retrosigmoid) surgery through a meta-analysis based on the published hearing outcomes within the current literature.Data Sources Both the PubMed and Cochrane databases were used to identify retrospective and prospective studies which involved hearing outcomes of VS patients who underwent the RS approach. The final search was performed on November 11, 2017. The first and third authors independently reviewed the aggregated articles, and final decisions of study inclusion were dependent on consensus.Study Selection Of 313 articles, 16 studies (5.1%) met eligibility criteria. Together, these 16 studies comprised a total of 1,249 patients with serviceable preoperative hearing in the affected ear, from whom postoperative hearing preservation could be evaluated.Data Extraction Both preoperative and postoperative hearing grades were extracted to determine the hearing preservation rate presented in the group of patients in each article. Additionally, demographics regarding gender, age, mean tumor size, and mean FU (follow-up) time pertaining to the patients in each article were extracted as well.Data Synthesis Study heterogeneity was quantified through computation of t2,Q, and I2 statistics. A Wald-type Q statistic was used to assess statistical significance of study heterogeneity. Assessment of study bias was performed using standard funnel plot analysis and an Egger’s test for funnel plot asymmetry. Significant cross-study heterogeneity was found, with rates of hearing preservation ranging from 12-79% across studies. Aggregate hearing preservation was 23% under a fixed effects model and 37% allowing for random study effects. Clear systematic bias was also apparent, with disproportionate numbers of (mostly smaller) studies reporting hearing preservation rates markedly higher than the aggregate estimates (Pl 0.0001). As expected, rates of hearing preservation were also strongly dependent on preoperative tumor size, with rates of 59%, 37%, and 11% observed for intracanalicular, small, and large (g20 mm) tumors, respectively.Conclusions Hearing preservation rates are likely dependent on multiple factors and tumor size has a strong effect. It is critical to discuss the patient’s expectations for hearing preservation when deciding on treatment plans for VS.
A Cloud Based Entitlement Granting Engine.

Cyber Sandbox Software Portal (CSSP) is a web application built on the Ruby on Rails framework which provides an entitlement granting engine to assign AWS Instances to different users on demand. The motivation behind this effort is to create an easy way to give users access to virtual machines while also monitoring their work. CSSP would be useful in a classroom setting that requires students to have their own machines to work on. It would also be useful in training for cybersecurity competitions such as the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition. By utilizing the cloud and cloud programming API’s, virtual instances can be allocated on demand which can not only save a huge amount of time, but also greatly reduce costs of setup, deployment, delegation, and usage of resources.
Multicomponent transport of methanol and sodium acetate in poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate membranes of varied fractional free volume

Abstract Polymer membranes are critically important to the advancement of next generation technologies in energy devices, water purification, and industrial separations. Understanding relationships between membrane structure, physical properties, and transport phenomena is critical to developing next-generation membranes for applications that require the selective transport of neutral and ionic molecules. Fractional free volume (FFV) is one critical membrane characteristic in dense polymer membranes as it forms the pathways for molecular transport. Here, we investigate the impact of varied FFV on the transport of methanol, sodium acetate, and their mixture in a series of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA, n = 13) membranes prepared with a range of FFV. Membranes are fabricated by UV-photopolymerization where FFV is varied through control of the water content in pre-polymerization solutions. Water uptake of fabricated membranes is characterized as a proxy for the varying FFV. Solute permeabilities are measured in custom-built diffusion cells for methanol, sodium acetate and their mixture with downstream receiver cell solute concentrations measured via in situ attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR FTIR) spectroscopy. Membrane permeability varied by up to a factor of 6 as the prepolymerization water content, and thereby FFV, of the membranes was varied. Furthermore, distinct, and increasing, differences in the magnitude of extracted permeabilities between single solute and combined solute experiments are observed as the FFV increases and these differences are attributed to a combination of assisted and competitive transport.
Effects of genotype and production system on quality of tomato fruits and in vitro bile acids binding capacity.

Tomato is an important source of health-promoting constituents, and researchers have focused on enhancing the content. In the present study, the influence of net-house (NH) and open-field (OF) growing conditions on physicochemical traits of tomatoes from eight different cultivars were evaluated. The tomato fruit qualities, such as color, total soluble solids (TSS), total acidity (TA), and pH were measured. Furthermore, ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI-HR-QTOFMS) was used for identification and quantification of health-promoting compounds such as ascorbic acid, s-carotene, lycopene, and its isomers. In addition, in vitro bile acid binding capacity of all tomato samples was analyzed along with soluble and insoluble dietary fiber analysis as biofunctional properties. The results suggest that production systems influenced tomato fruit quality and biofunctional characteristics in a variety-specific manner. Notably, TA and all-trans-s-carotene values were considerably influenced by production systems, and their levels were higher in the NH- and OF-grown tomatoes, respectively. Our findings underline the importance of the rational choice of genotype and production system to obtain high-quality tomatoes with enhanced desired traits for breeders and consumers. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Tomato is one of the nutritional high-valued horticultural crops. The present study aimed to assess the impact of production systems, such as net-house and open-field conditions, on physicochemical traits and biofunctional properties, in vitro bile acid binding capacity of eight tomato varieties. This study supplies a good reference for the rational selection of genotype and production system to obtain high-quality tomatoes with improved desired traits for breeders and consumers.
Initial development of preceramic polymer formulations for additive manufacturing

Three preceramic polymer formulations for potential use in additive manufacturing technologies were investigated. The polymeric precursors include an allyl hydrido polycarbosilane (SMP-10), a mixture of SMP-10 with a reactive ester (1,6-hexanediol diacrylate, HDDA), and a polydimethylsiloxane (4690A/B). The SMP-10/HDDA proved to have outstanding photo-curing properties, high-resolution printing, and the ability to easily transform into the silicon carbide phase. The same polymeric mixture showed the lowest viscosity value which is preferred in vat additive manufacturing. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that, after pyrolysis to 1350 °C, the polydimethylsiloxane polymer showed the highest onset decomposition temperature and the lowest retained weight (52 wt%) while the allyl hydrido polycarbosilane showed the lowest onset decomposition temperature and highest retained weight (71.7 wt%). In terms of crystallography, X-ray diffraction and microstructural results showed that the ceramic matrix composites contained both silicon carbide and silicon oxycarbide. Overall, the results are very promising for the fabrication of ceramic materials using additive manufacturing technologies.
As Covid makes clear, statistics education is a must

Christine Franklin introduces a new framework for statistics education, contending that statistical reasoning skills should "no longer be optional" for school-age students.
Boreal Agriculture Cannot Be Sustainable Without Food Sovereignty

• Food sovereignty encompasses the right of humans to have access to, and to produce, healthy and culturally appropriate food. • Food sovereignty exists within the “social” pillar of sustainability and sustainable food production. • Over time, and as a result of colonialism and neo-liberal food regimes, Indigenous food system patterns in boreal regions have been disrupted. Imports make local food production economically infeasible. • The intersection of food sovereignty and international trade is understudied. Food insecurity cycles are likely to perpetuate without deliberate action and government intervention. • Policies that facilitate local access, and ownership, of agriculture and food processing facilities may foster food sovereignty. • Indigenous community governance, and agricultural practices, are critical to restoring environmental and social sustainability.
Angioedema of the tongue due to haloperidol: A case report.

Abstract Background Angioedema is an allergic reaction that has rarely been associated with haloperidol. There are 3 case reports in the literature, including one involving a child. Angioedema is mediated by increased capillary permeability and plasma extravasation, either related to histamine/IgE or bradykinin. When triggered by a medication, it typically presents within a few hours of medication administration. Histamine-mediated angioedema is generally treated with corticosteroids, antihistamines, and/or epinephrine. Case presentation We review a case of angioedema of the tongue in an adolescent, thought to be triggered by haloperidol. Initial treatment was targeted toward a presumed dystonic reaction. Telephone consent was obtained from the patient's mother to publish this report. Conclusions Clinicians should be aware of potential dangerous adverse effects of commonly used medications. Patients with angioedema may need to be monitored for up to 36 h.
Psychophysical Functions in Fish with Respecified Retinotectal Connections

In most submammalian species, the primary visual projection area within the brain is the optic tecum, with each eye projecting to the opposite tectum. It has been shown through both anatomical and electrophysiological studies that there is a continuous projection of the retinal surface onto the contralateral optic tectum, and there is no ipsilateral tectal projection, in the goldfish. This means that the axons of ganglion cells that are adjacent in the retina project to adjacent areas in the optic tectum. The posterior visual field projects to the anterior retina, and then projects to the posterior part of the optic tectum on the opposite side of the brain, and vice versa. The apparent simplicity of this mapping makes it possible to investigate the time course, and factors that influence the formation and reformation of retinotectal connections.
Marine Living Resources Management: A Proposal for Integration of United States' Management Regimes

Recent recommendations by national ocean policy studies for an ecosystem-based approach to management of marine activities and resources across sectors is a laudable, but extremely controversial and perhaps ultimately overwhelming goal if not approached incrementally. Problems of conflict and inconsistency which exist not only between sectors, but also within sectors, must be resolved. This article considers an approach to resolving conflicts within the sector of living marine resources management that could provide an incremental step toward more comprehensive ecosystem-based management. This article first provides a comparative analysis of the management regimes of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act - the primary statutes governing the management of living marine resources. The article then proposes a framework for a comprehensive management regime for living marine resources incorporating an ecosystem-based approach.
The Uptake of Lipids into the Intestinal Mucosa

Fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates represent the major sources of calories in the typical diet found in the Western world. During digestion within the proximal small intestine proteins and carbohydrates are broken down into simpler peptides and saccharides that are very polar and so are soluble in the aqueous environment of the intestinal contents. Because of the high degree of interaction between these polar products and the water phase, carrier-mediated and energy-linked transport processes are required to bring about net transfer of these molecules from the intestinal lumen into the cytosolic compartment of the columnar absorptive cell of the jejunum and ileum.(1,2) In contrast, the digestion of complex dietary lipids releases products that are still very nonpolar and, therefore, have very low aqueous solubilities. Such molecules are, however, readily absorbed across the microvillus membrane of the intestinal cell by passive mechanisms. This chapter reviews the unique biochemical and physiological mechanisms that interact to bring about the absorption of dietary lipids from the external environment, i. e., the contents of the intestinal lumen, into the body, i.e., the cytosolic compartment of the columnar epithelial cell of the small intestine.(3)
Capital utilization, economies of scale and technical change in the growth of total factor productivity: An Explanation of South Korean manufacturing Growth

Abstract This paper presents a method of interpreting the growth of total factor productivity, directly linking the productivity growth to key parameters of a specific cost function. It shows that the productivity index can be decomposed into effects due to (a) technical change, (b) non-constant returns to scale, and (c) change in capital utilization. The decomposition framework was applied to data on South Korean manufacturing. During the 1961–1980 period in South Korean manufacturing, the total factor productivity was found to have grown at 3% per annum, scale economies contributed about 38% of the growth of TFP, the technical change 45%, and the change in the capital utilization rate 17%. The results of this study support of the view that for growing, less-developed economies, the growth in capital utilization rate is a source of growth in total productivity that is too significant to be ignored.
Comparison of two soil gas methods used during a field investigation

Soil gas surveys were employed to help determine the nature and extent of contamination resulting from the past operation of source area ST58, the Old Quartermaster Service Station, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Two Intrusive methods were used for comparison, active conventional gas extraction and the passive Petrex method. Results were comparable, with gasoline identified as the main subsurface contaminant In both surveys. Close spatial correlation was also achieved among screening instruments and laboratory analyses. Contaminant concentrations corresponded very well with unsealed blueprints showing the locations of the above‐ground storage tanks and associated piping, subsequent test pit soil samples, and excavation results. The contamination probably occurred as a result of surface spills and leaks from discontinuities and/or breaks in the underground piping. A finer grid was employed in the Petrex method survey and produced better‐resolved contours. The use of conventional gas extraction provided...
Chapter 12 Random walks on groups and random transformations

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses three aspects of random walks. It focuses on random walks on matrix groups G = SL k (R). This theory is mainly concerned with Laws of Large Numbers and other limit theorems. The chapter discusses random walks on general groups. It focuses on the connections between the properties of the group and the behavior of the random walks on it. The chapter also discusses the recurrence properties of random walks and bounded μ-harmonic functions, the concept of the Poisson boundary, and the related notions of boundary entropy and random walk entropy. The chapter discusses random walks on the groups of the transformations of measure spaces and manifolds. The chapter presents Random Ergodic Theorem and related results. It presents the random-walk-based notion of entropy. This notion is discussed in the chapter in the context of diffeomorphism of manifolds and in the general measurable setting. The chapter discusses the connection between the entropy of random volume-preserving diffeomorphism.
Inducing Chirality with Circularly Polarized Light

An unexpected difference in electron transfer rates for right- and left-handed versions of a molecule is caused by quantum interference.
Analyses of subnanometer resolution cryo-EM density maps.

Today, electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM) can routinely achieve subnanometer resolutions of complex macromolecular assemblies. From a density map, one can extract key structural and functional information using a variety of computational analysis tools. At subnanometer resolution, these tools make it possible to isolate individual subunits, identify secondary structures, and accurately fit atomic models. With several cryo-EM studies achieving resolutions beyond 5A, computational modeling and feature recognition tools have been employed to construct backbone and atomic models of the protein components directly from a density map. In this chapter, we describe several common classes of computational tools that can be used to analyze and model subnanometer resolution reconstructions from cryo-EM. A general protocol for analyzing subnanometer resolution density maps is presented along with a full description of steps used in analyzing the 4.3A resolution structure of Mm-cpn.
Proceedings of the 9th ACM SIGMOD workshop on Research issues in data mining and knowledge discovery

This volume contains all the papers presented in the SIGMOD Workshop on Research Issues in Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery (DMKD), June 13, 2004, Maison de la Chimie, Paris, France. This was the 9th workshop on DMKD held annually in conjunction with ACM SIGMOD conference. The workshop was sponsored by ACM SIGMOD with corporate support from Microsoft Research. With the help of program committee, we selected 7 full papers and 4 short papers out of 34 submissions. The theme of this year's workshop was on data mining and information integration.
Cirrus feedback on interannual climate fluctuations

Cirrus clouds are not only important in determining the current climate but also play an important role in climate change and variability. Analysis of satellite observations shows that the amount and altitude of cirrus clouds (cloud optical depth < 3.6, cloud top pressure < 440 hPa) increase in response to interannual surface warming. Using cirrus cloud radiative kernels, the magnitude of the interannual cirrus feedback is estimated to be 0.20 ± 0.21 W/m2/°C, which represents an important component of the cloud feedback. Thus, cirrus clouds are likely to act as a positive feedback on interannual climate fluctuations, by reducing the Earth's ability to radiate longwave radiation to space in response to planetary surface warming. Most of the cirrus feedback comes from increasing cloud amount in the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) and subtropical upper troposphere.
Reactive oxygen species mediate endotoxin-induced human dermal endothelial NF-κB Activation

Abstract Background. Microvascular endothelial cell “activation” by endotoxin is an early and critical phenomenon underlying organ dysfunction related to sepsis. Dermal endothelial cells contribute to many of the manifestations of septic shock, such as cutaneous interstitial edema and loss of peripheral vasomotor regulation. Human dermal endothelial cell activation by endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide [LPS]) is characterized by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that enhance nuclear translocation of the transcription factor kappa-B (NF-κB). Methods. We tested our hypothesis by stimulating human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC.1) with endotoxin and assaying for endothelial generation of ROS and nuclear translocation of NF-κB subunits. HMEC.1 cultures were treated individually with LPS, hydrogen peroxide, or xanthine, xanthine oxidase, and ferrous sulfate (xanthine/XO/Fe2+). Nuclear proteins were isolated and consensus sequence binding was assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescin diacetate and confocal microscopy were used to examine ROS production in LPS-stimulated HMEC.1. Results. Nuclear translocation of the p65/p50 NF-κB heterodimer was detectable 30 min after stimulation with LPS alone or the xanthine/XO/Fe2+ combination, but not with hydrogen peroxide. Antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) inhibited LPS-stimulated ROS production in HMEC.1. Antioxidant prior to or simultaneously with LPS exposure, but not following LPS, also prevented NF-κB activation. NAC was ineffective at inhibiting NF-κB translocation at increased LPS concentrations. Conclusions. Dermal endothelial cells, a microvascular cell type that may contribute to the systemic response to blood-borne endotoxemia, generate ROS in the absence of other inflammatory cells. These LPS-activated endothelial cells, in turn, rapidly translocate transcription factor NF-κB to cell nuclei, a process regulated in part by intracellular ROS.
Coastal sustainability depends on how economic and coastline responses to climate change affect each other

[1] Human-induced climate change is predicted to accelerate sea level rise and alter storm frequency along the US east coast. Rising sea level will enhance shoreline erosion, and recent work indicates changing storm patterns and associated changes in wave conditions can intensify coastal erosion along parts of a coastline. Investigations of coastal response to climate change typically consider natural processes in isolation — neglecting repeated changes to the coastline from human actions, primarily through shoreline nourishment projects, which add sand to the shoreline to counteract erosion. In a model coupling economically driven shoreline nourishment with wave- and sea level rise-driven coastline change, and accounting for dwindling sediment resources for nourishment, coastline response depends dramatically on the relationship between patterns of property value and erosion. Simulations show that when nourishment costs rise with depletion of sand resources, coastline change is tied to the interaction between patterns of erosion and property value. Simulations show that when high property values align with highly erosive locations, sand resources are depleted rapidly and nourishment in lower property value towns is quickly abandoned. Although our model simulates a particular coastal morphology, the result that future behavior of the coastline and the economic viability of nourishment in a given town depend on the regional interaction between patterns of property value and erosion is likely applicable to many coastal configurations. More broadly, coupling economic and physical models reveals equity and sustainability implications of coastal climate adaptation as well as patterns of coastline change that a physical model alone would overlook.
Demographic and clinical characteristics of consistent and inconsistent longitudinal reporters of lifetime suicide attempts in adolescence through young adulthood.

BACKGROUND: Within the context of the recent release of the 2012 National Suicide Prevention Strategy, and as the third leading cause of death for individuals 10- to 24-years-old, suicide prevention is a national priority. A consistently reported and robust risk factor for suicide is a prior suicide attempt; however few studies have investigated the consistency of self-reported lifetime suicide attempts. The goal of this study is to describe the prevalence and characteristics of inconsistent reporting of suicide attempt in a longitudinal cohort of participants annually assessed in 12 waves of data collected from middle school (age 12) to early adulthood (age 22). METHODS: Among this cohort (n = 678), we compared those who consistently, inconsistently, and never reported a suicide attempt according to demographic and clinical variables. RESULTS: Almost 90% (88.5%) of our sample inconsistently reported a lifetime suicide attempt. Consistent and inconsistent reporters of lifetime suicide attempt did not differ on demographic or clinical variables with the exception of higher rates of lifetime suicidal ideation among consistent reporters (P Language: en
Protein kinetic differences between children with edematous and nonedematous severe childhood undernutrition in the fed and postabsorptive states

Background: Pathogenic factors that cause a child to develop the edematous instead of the nonedematous form of severe childhood undernutrition (SCU) during food deprivation are not clear. It was hypothesized that, in edematous but not nonedematous SCU, impaired protein breakdown leading to inadequate amino acids for maintenance of important organ systems was a factor. Objective: We measured protein kinetics in children with edematous and nonedematous SCU. Design: Endogenous leucine flux, an index of whole-body protein breakdown rate, was determined in 4 groups of children with edematous or nonedematous SCU in the malnourished and recovered states. Two groups were studied in the postabsorptive state, and 2 groups were studied in the fed state. Results: In the postabsorptive state, leucine flux was slower (P < 0.01) in the edematous group than in the nonedematous group in the malnourished state, but in the recovered state, it was faster (P < 0.05) in the children who previously had edematous SCU. When compared with the malnourished state value, leucine flux at recovery doubled in the group that previously had edematous SCU, but it did not change in the other group. In the fed state, leucine flux was slower (P < 0.01) in the edematous group than in the nonedematous group in the malnourished state but not in the recovered state. In the recovered state, enteral leucine extraction by splanchnic tissues trended higher in the group that previously had edematous SCU than in the nonedematous group. Conclusion: These findings indicate different protein breakdown responses to food deprivation between children with edematous and nonedematous SCU and inherent differences in protein metabolism when they have recovered.
Coding complexity in the human motor circuit

Cortical oscillatory dynamics are known to be critical for human movement, although their functional significance remains unclear. In particular, there is a strong beta (15–30 Hz) desynchronization that begins before movement onset and continues during movement, before rebounding after movement termination. Several studies have connected this response to motor planning and/or movement selection operations, but to date such studies have examined only the early aspects of the response (i.e., before movement) and a limited number of parameters. In this study, we used magnetoencephalography (MEG) and a novel motor sequence paradigm to probe how motor plan complexity modulates peri‐movement beta oscillations, and connectivity within activated circuits. We also examined the dynamics by imaging beta activity before and during movement execution and extracting virtual sensors from key regions. We found stronger beta desynchronization during complex relative to simple sequences in the right parietal and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during movement execution. There was also an increase in functional connectivity between the left DLPFC and right parietal shortly after movement onset during complex but not simple sequences, which produced a significant conditional effect (i.e., complex > simple) that was not attributable to differences in response amplitude. This study is the first to demonstrate that complexity modulates the dynamics of the peri‐movement beta ERD, which provides crucial new data on the functional role of this well‐known oscillatory motor response. These data further suggest that execution of complex motor behavior may recruit key regions of the fronto‐parietal network, in addition to traditional sensorimotor regions. Hum Brain Mapp 36:5155–5167, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A reappraisal of appendicitis in the elderly.

Historically, appendicitis in the elderly is associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Ninety-six patients over 60 years of age with appendicitis treated over a 10-year period were reviewed. Only 20% presented classically with anorexia, fever right lower quadrant pain, and an elevated white blood cell count. One third of the patients had greater than 48 hours delay to admission. Objective diagnostic testing was often confusing and unreliable. At the time of admission, only 51% were diagnosed as having possible appendicitis. Eighty-three percent of our patients underwent surgery within 24 hours, and 72% had frank perforation. Thirty-two percent of those surviving developed complications, and 83% of these patients had perforated appendicitis. Complications were twice as likely in patients with perforation. Despite the relatively high morbidity, there were only four deaths in patients with coexistent carcinoma. Because of the later and atypical presentation of appendicitis in this age group, a high index of suspicion and early operation are important in avoiding perforation and subsequent morbidity.
Constraints on herbivory by grizzly bears

Although well known as carnivores and not capable of digesting plant fiber, grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) consume over 200 species of plants and are entirely vegetarian in some ecosystems. Even in ecosystems with abundant meat resources, green vegetation can be an important seasonal food resource. Therefore, we examined the morphological, physiological, and environmental constraints that determine the nutritional value of herbaceous vegetation to grizzly bears. Short-term, board foraging trials were used with captive grizzly bears to determine constraints on intake rate including bite size, bite rate, bear size, plant species, plant height, and plant distribution. Feeding trials were conducted to determine the effect of protein level (12–35%) and digestible dry matter intake on weight gain. Finally, maximum daily intake, daily foraging time, and weight change were measured for captive bears foraging on highly abundant and nutritious forbs and grasses during 12-day trials. Intake during short-term board trials overestimated the intake of freely foraging bears from two- to seven-fold depending on bear size. Because of their relatively larger bite sizes, smaller absolute energy requirements, and relatively larger intake capacity, smaller bears ( 120 kg) from gaining weight on herbaceous vegetation. Both captive and wild bears select forbs over grasses at similar growth stages because forbs are generally higher in protein and more digestible than grasses. Therefore, the nutritional well-being of wild grizzly bears could be improved in areas where bears are largely herbivorous and, thus, relatively small by purposefully managing for nutritious forbs.
Boundary layer control by acoustic excitation

An experimental program in which the effectiveness of a single large eddy break-up device (LEBU) blade is enhanced by proper acoustic excitation is described. An acoustic pulse, phase-locked to the incident large eddies and directed at the LEBU can enhance the large eddy cancellation process and can in effect lead to a decrease in the skin friction coefficient. Cross-correlation data and turbulence intensity measurements show that this acoustic excitation causes eddy cancellation at the trailing edge of the manipulator plate. It is concluded that both reduced turbulent boundary layer mixing and significant drag reduction can be achieved upon proper acoustic input to a LEBU.
Influence of Lake Michigan Holocene Lake Levels on Fluvial Sediments of the Lower Pigeon River, Wisconsin

Thirty-seven vibracores, extending up to 4.86 m, collected along the lower Pigeon River north of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, were used to interpret Holocene lake-level fluctuations of Lake Michigan. The sediments reflect numerous cycles of degradation and aggradation as well as marshland and submergence. The basal unit is till and glaciolacustrine silt and clay. The river cut through these sediments prior to 6,500 14C years BP, probably during the Chippewa Low stand, and deposited the lowest gravel unit in the cores. Between 6,500 and 5,500 14C years BP, yellowish-red fluvial sand and silt were deposited in the northern half of the valley. Aggrading point bar gravel and overbank silt and fine sand throughout the entire valley record the lake rise to the Nipissing level from about 5,500 to 5,000 14C years BP. Subsequent deposition of organic-rich, muddy palustrine sediment indicates that Nipissing water flooded the valley. A lack of sediments with ages between 5,000–2,000 14C years BP suggests lack of aggradation, indicating a lowering lake level until about 2,000 14C years BP. Sandy-silt overbank sediment deposited over the palustrine sediment since 2,000 14C years BP marks the return of floodplain aggradation as lake level stabilized or rose slightly to the modern level. While the river-mouth sediments are not useful for refining Holocene lake-level curves, they do corroborate major events such as the Chippewa Low, the rise to the Nipissing level followed by a period of declining lake level and fluvial erosion, and the small rise to the modern lake level.
A new technique for measuring the permittivity and loss tangent of cylindrical dielectric rods

A new technique is presented for measuring the permittivity and loss tangent of cylindrical dielectric rods. It is a resonant technique and exhibits highly accurate results for low-loss dielectrics. The finite-element method is used to model the measurement fixture. Also, a procedure is presented to characterize the surface resistance of the conducting walls. Experimental results are compared to previously reported values and are in excellent agreement.
Human herpesvirus-6: tumorigenicity and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes.

Abstract We previously reported that human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) genome (strain GS) and a cloned subfragment (pZVH14) transfected NIH 3T3 cells, induced foci of transformation with a frequency significantly above the background level. The transformed cells produced tumors in nude mice and immunocompetent (Swiss) mice. In the current study, nude mice tumors were passed into Swiss mice and more aggressive tumors (G-2TS and 14-2TS derived from HHV-6 genome and pZVH14 DNA, respectively) were produced. 14-2TS tumors caused lung metastasis upon intravenous injection. In the case of subcutaneously growing aggressive tumors, tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) were isolated and characterized as T cells but lacked tumor specific killing as monitored by 51 Cr-release assays. TIL lost activity at day 52 in a 4 h assay (but not in a 19 h assay) against the autologous tumor, but not a Maloney virus induced tumor (Yac-1). These studies indicate that an established non-tumorigenic fibroblast cell line, when transfected with pZVH14 DNA of HHV-6, acquires both tumorigenic and metastatic potential and tumor bearing hosts mount immune response against such tumors.
Necessary conditions for circularly-restricted static coulomb formations

A noncanonical Hamiltonian formulation of the Coulomb formation dynamics is used to develop necessary conditions for static Coulomb formations with constant charges. With a static or frozen formation the satellites perform non-Keplerian orbits and maintain constant relative position vectors. As seen by an observer following the center of mass motion, the spacecraft formation would appear to behave equivalently to a rigid body in orbit. Previous research has demonstrated the existence of such static Coulomb formations analytically by employing symmetry simplifying assumptions with linearized relative motion dynamics, or by using numerical genetic search algorithms. These static solutions are used as reference geometries and charges for feedback law developments. This paper presents nonlinear static formation conditions for the circularly restricted problem. Hamiltonian formulations have been used to study equilibrium conditions of rigid bodies in orbit. Analogous techniques are employed to study necessary conditions to achieve a static Coulomb formation. Analytical results using the full and truncated formation gravity potential function are presented. Numerical results illustrate convergence performance improvements of an evolutionary search algorithm where the presented necessary conditions are enforced.
EUS-guided FNA of peritoneal carcinomatosis in patients with unknown primary malignancy.

Background EUS-guided FNA is a well-recognized technique for sampling the pancreas, peri-intestinal lymph nodes, and mass lesions. The role of EUS-guided FNA in the diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis has not been well studied. Objective We aimed to determine the feasibility and success in sampling lesions in the peritoneum suspicious for carcinomatosis without a primary source. Design An observational study. Setting A tertiary referral center. Patients Consecutive patients who underwent EUS-guided FNA of peritoneal deposits. Results During a span of 3 years, 4 patients underwent transgastric or transduodenal EUS-guided FNA of peritoneal lesions with a curvilinear echoendoscope. All of these lesions were imaged by abdominal CT scan. The EUS findings of the nodules appeared round, relatively hypoechoic to the surrounding tissue, but hyperechoic when compared with the surrounding low-volume ascites where the lesions floated. Four passes were performed per case, and the diagnosis was achieved on a median of 2 passes (range 1-4). All patients received intravenous antibiotics during the procedure. Two patients had metastatic adenocarcinoma, 1 patient had lymphoma, and 1 patient had metastatic breast carcinoma. Diagnostic laparoscopy/laparotomy was avoided in all patients. No complications, particularly peritonitis, were encountered. Limitations Observational study with a small sample size. Conclusions Transgastric or transduodenal EUS-guided FNA for peritoneal carcinomatosis is feasible and safe. In the setting of an unknown primary cancer, EUS-guided FNA facilitates acquisition of tissues for treatment allocation, thus avoiding the need for laparoscopy or laparotomy.
Demographic, environmental, access, and attitude factors that influence walking to school by elementary school-aged children.

Background: Walking to school has been identified as an activity that contributes to children's daily exercise requirements. The purpose of this study was to better understand factors that influence walking to school by elementary school-aged children. Methods: A sample of 1,897 elementary school-aged children (84% response rate; 3rd-5th graders) throughout Michigan completed the Michigan Safe Routes to School Student Survey. The survey measures environmental, access, and attitudinal perceptions toward school routes and transportation methods. Results: Using logistic regression, the results indicate that the odds of walking to school increase the older children are (odds ratio (OR) = 1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.20-2.70) and if students perceive that walking to school saves time (OR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.44-7.66) or is safe (OR = 2.60, 95% CI = 1.06-6.39). The odds of a student walking to school decrease the farther a student lives from his or her school (OR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.04-0.37), if his or her parents have a car (OR = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.02-0.22), and if the student has access to a school bus (OR = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.03-0.18). These factors are significant (p Language: en
A Typology of Mother-Daughter Relationship Patterns for Young Adult Women and Their Mothers

Qualitative and quantitative methods were used in this study of developmental themes in the context of the mother-daughter relationship. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 60 women, aged 23–42 years. A rating guide for individuation was developed for content analysis of interview material. The dimensions of the rating guide included (1) psychological autonomy from family of origin, (2) empathy, (3) tolerance of ambiguity, and (4) maintenance of self-esteem. Cluster analysis was employed to assign women with similar individuation profiles into five groups. A typology was constructed that represents styles of mother—daughter interaction. The study findings suggest that typological differences based on individuation themes can be used to describe overall patterns of the mother-daughter relationship over time. These patterns provide a useful context in which to study mother-daughter interactions through the life span.
Reproducibility of rest and exercise left ventricular ejection fraction and volumes in chronic aortic regurgitation.

Abstract To assess the variability of rest and exercise radionuclide ventriculography in patients with aortic regurgitation (AR), 22 patients in stable condition with chronic AR underwent radionuclide ventriculography at rest and during exercise for measurement of left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction (EF) on 2 occasions 3 months apart. For the group, there were no significant differences between the findings of the 2 studies except for a slightly lower exercise end-systolic volume on the second study. The interstudy differences and variabilities (expressed as the standard deviation of differences) for rest and exercise EF and change in EF were 0 ± 0.04, +0.02 ± 0.05 and +0.01 ± 0.05, respectively. Thus, although mean differences were minor, considerable individual variability occurred, the magnitude of which was similar to that reported for other patient populations. In 3 patients who had an initial normal response to exercise (increase in EF ≥ 0.05), the response became abnormal and in 2 who initially had an abnormal response, the response normalized. This variability must be considered in clinical decision-making or in research study design for patients with chronic AR.
Impact of years of dialysis therapy on mortality risk and the characteristics of longer term dialysis survivors

Abstract With improving survival and a decreasing probability of receiving a transplant, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are more likely to remain on hemodialysis therapy for more years than in the past. This study evaluates the effect of years on dialysis (vintage) on relative risk (RR) for death with and without adjustment for comorbidities and treatment factors. It also compares characteristics of patients on hemodialysis therapy for 7 years or longer with those on hemodialysis therapy for 1 to 7 years. Data were combined from two special US Renal Data System studies, the Case Mix Adequacy Study and Waves 1, 3, and 4 of the Dialysis Mortality and Morbidity Study. Excluding the first year of dialysis, 12,687 patients were studied during a 2-year follow-up, censoring at transplantation or loss to follow-up. Unadjusted analysis (vintage 1 to P P 2002 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
Consumptive coagulopathy. A complication of therapy of solid tumors in childhood.

• The association of consumptive coagulopathy and malignancy is thought to be rare in pediatrics. In one patient with Ewing's sarcoma and in two with rhabdomyosarcoma consumptive coagulopathy developed in the presence of either diffuse metastatic disease or an extensive primary tumor. The coagulopathy was a major clinical problem, developing within five days of the onset of chemotherapy. Resolution coincided with the clinical response of the tumor. ( Am J Dis Child 132:870-872, 1978)
An inverse correlation between loop length and stability in a four-helix-bundle protein

Background The loops in proteins are less well characterized than the secondary structural elements that they connect. We have used the four-helix-bundle protein Rop as a model system in which to explore the role of loop length in protein folding and stability. Results A natural two-residue loop was replaced with a series of glycine linkers up to 10 residues in length. All 10 mutants are highly helical dimers that retain wild-type RNA-binding activity. As loop length is increased, the stability of Rop toward thermal and chemical denaturation is progressively decreased. Conclusion All the mutants assume a wild-type-like structure, which suggests that the natural loop does not actively dictate the final protein fold. The strong inverse correlation observed between loop length and stability is well described by a simple polymer model in which the entropy of loop closure is the dominant energetic term. Our results emphasize the importance of optimization of loop length to successful protein design.
Fractionation of the nondialyzable, soluble components of gastric contents by chromatography on amberlite IRC-50.

Abstract Separation of the high-molecular-weight components of gastric juice on a column of Amberlite IRC-50 (XE-64) has been described. At least five different protein components have been obtained by this technique. Of the two polysaccharide peaks obtained, one overlaps, but does not completely coincide with, the first protein peak, and the other is completely free of protein. This separation of carbohydrate and protein in gastric juice has also been demonstrated by paper chromatography and paper ionophoresis. Blood group A substance and peptic activity have proved useful as the biological activities to ascertain the native state of the recovered material and to follow the separation of the components. The A substance preparation is active in 0.025–0.05 μg. quantities with a high degree of recovery. The pepsin obtained was 75% as active as crystalline bovine pepsin with a recovery of 60%.