cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanical ventilation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a bridge to lung transplantation: Closing the gap.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to examine outcomes and survival with mechanical ventilation (MV) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) as a bridge to lung transplantation (LT) using a national registry. METHODS The United Network for Organ Sharing database was analyzed for recipients in 2005-2017. Recipients were categorized into 3 groups based on pre-transplant bridging. Multivariable regression analyses examined effect of bridging on post-LT outcomes adjusting for clinical characteristics, including era (early=2005-2011, late=2012-2017) and center volume. RESULTS There were 21,576 LT recipients: no bridge ( n =19,783), MV ( n =1,129), and ECMO ( n =664). Mean age was 54±15 years (41% female). Use of ECMO increased significantly in the late era (1% vs 5%, P 48 hours, acute rejection, and dialysis. Patients with MV had reduced odds for ventilator support >48 hours ( P =0.003), dialysis ( P =0.003), postoperative ECMO ( P =0.006), and greater odds for reintubation ( P =0.005) compared to ECMO. Patients in both MV (HR=1.45, P P P =0.817). Risk for mortality in the ECMO group decreased in the later era (HR=0.54, P =0.006). CONCLUSIONS ECMO as a bridge to LT has increased 271% while MV has decreased 38% over the past decade. Survival with ECMO has significantly improved and is now equivalent to survival in recipients bridged on MV. These results suggest gains in use, outcomes, and safety of ECMO in this patient cohort.
Tunable SiN Hybrid Conjugated Materials

We report the synthesis of a family of N-aryl cyclosilazanes. The reaction of 1,2-bis(trifluoromethanesulfonate)tetramethyldisilane with para-substituted anilines gives six-membered rings with no observed condensation polymerization. X-ray crystallography reveals the cyclosilazane adopts a twist boat conformation with both nitrogens in a trigonal planar geometry. Solution phase UV–vis spectroscopic studies coupled with density functional theory calculations interrogate the ability of the nitrogen atom to bridge the σ- and π-conjugated moieties. Depending on the aromatic substituent, the cyclosilazane rings may be either more or less electron rich than an all silicon ring.
Variation in life-history traits among Daphnia and its relationship to species-level responses to phosphorus limitation

Currently organisms are experiencing changes in their environment at an unprecedented rate. Therefore, the study of the contributions to and responses in traits linked to fitness is crucial, as they have direct consequences on a population's success in persisting under such a change. Daphnia is used as a model organism as the genus contains keystone primary consumers in aquatic food webs. A life-history table experiment (LHTE) using four species of Daphnia was conducted to compare variation in life-history traits among species across two different environmental conditions (high and low phosphorus availability). Results indicate that the food quality environment had the most impact on life-history traits, while genetic contributions to traits were higher at the species-level than clonal-level. Higher trait variation and species-level responses to P-limitation were more evident in reproductive traits, while growth traits were found to be less affected by food quality and had less variation. Exploring trait variation and potential plasticity in organisms is increasingly important to consider as a potential mechanism for population persistence given the fluctuations in environmental stressors we are currently experiencing.
Finite Element Analysis of Thin Shell Loaded at the Center

Thin rectangular shell structure with clamped edges subjected to concentrated load at the center is modeled as symmetric structure using ANSYS. The shell structure is examined with different length and width combinations. The SHELL181 element is used to model this structure. In general, the results show good agreement with mechanics of materials’ solutions or design tables’ results. A convergence study of the shell structure shows that 10000 elements are sufficient to describe the maximum displacement, and moment of the structure.
Experience of Administering Our First S-STEM Program to Broaden Participation in Computer Science

This paper documents the findings of our analysis of the implementation of our six-year NSF S-STEM scholarship program. One major finding was that, for underrepresented students to major in computer science, knowing the major existed and understanding the nature of the program were the most important factors. Also, the academic support system and hands-on nature of the major had a significant impact on scholarship recipients' persistence in the major. Evidence demonstrated that scholarship recipients had a 10%+ higher year-to-year persistence rate from their freshmen to sophomore year than that of all computer science students of the same entering classes. For all computer science students, college computer science major GPAs were not strongly correlated with their high school GPAs, financial need, or ACT math scores. This paper also presents lessons learned and resulting recommendations for future new scholarship administrators, as our lessons can likely be applied to other grants that recruit and deal with underrepresented groups.
Enhancing prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD among veterans with oxytocin: Design of a multisite randomized controlled trial.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the most highly prevalent mental health disorder among U.S. military Veterans. Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy is one of the most widely used evidence-based treatments for PTSD, but there is substantial room for improvement in outcomes and retention rates. Accumulating data suggest that oxytocin offers a promising pharmacological approach towards achieving this goal. Therefore, the primary objective of this two-site Phase II study is to examine the ability of oxytocin (vs. placebo) administration combined with PE therapy to (1) reduce PTSD symptom severity, (2) accelerate the rate of PTSD symptom improvement, and (3) improve PE adherence and retention rates. To accomplish these objectives, we will employ a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial and use standardized, repeated dependent measures of change at five time points (baseline, mid-treatment, end of treatment, and 3 and 6 month follow-up). Intranasal oxytocin (40 IU) will be administered directly prior to each PE therapy session. Findings from this study will provide critical new information regarding the efficacy of oxytocin to augment psychosocial treatment for PTSD, as well as information regarding the physiological mechanisms underlying PTSD and positive treatment response. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04228289.
RECURRENT PITUITARY APOPLEXY IN AN ADENOMA WITH SWITCHING PHENOTYPES.

ABSTRACT Objective To describe an unusual presentation of a patient with recurrent pituitary apoplexy of an adenoma that switched phenotypes from a nonfunctioning, or silent gonadotroph adenoma (SGA), to a silent corticotroph adenoma (SCA). We discuss the potential etiologies of both recurrent pituitary apoplexy and phenotype switching of pituitary tumors. Methods The presented case includes clinical and biochemical findings, surgical outcomes, and pathologic reports related to the treatment of our patient who presented with recurrent pituitary apoplexy. Results A 56-year-old man presented for evaluation of decreased libido and was found to have a low testosterone level. A pituitary magnetic resonance image demonstrated an 8-mm pituitary adenoma. He underwent transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) to remove the tumor and pathology demonstrated an SGA immunopositive for luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone with evidence of apoplexy. Eight years later, the patient underwent another TSS after developing acute-onset headache, vomiting, and a cranial nerve palsy. Pathology at this time showed a necrotic tumor consistent with apoplexy with negative immunostains for all pituitary tumors. Three years after this, the tumor recurred and after another TSS the tumor stained positive for adrenocorticotropic hormone but was negative for luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone with hemorrhage consistent with apoplexy. A few years afterward, he again developed acute-onset headache and cranial nerve palsies and had another TSS. On pathology, the tumor demonstrated extensive necrosis consistent with apoplexy and again stained positive for adrenocorticotropic hormone. The patient was then referred for radiation therapy and was subsequently lost to follow up. Conclusion Recurrent pituitary apoplexy in the same patient has only been described 3 times in the literature. There have been no case reports of a pituitary adenoma that switched phenotypes from an SGA to SCA. We suggest that pituitary apoplexy may recur multiple times due to a tumor with particularly fragile vessel walls and increased vascularization. We review the literature that suggests clinical and molecular similarities between SGAs and SCAs. Further studies are needed to determine the etiologies of recurrent apoplexy and pituitary adenomas with switching phenotypes. Abbreviations ACTH adrenocorticotropic hormone FSH follicle-stimulating hormone GH growth hormone LH luteinizing hormone MRI magnetic resonance imaging SCA silent corticotroph adenoma SGA silent gonadotroph adenoma TSH thyroid-stimulating hormone TSS transsphenoidal surgery VEGF vascular endothelial growth factor
A Teleneuropsychology Consultation Service Model for Children with Neurodevelopmental and Acquired Disorders Residing in Rural State Regions.

OBJECTIVE: Accessing neuropsychological services, which are often centralized in urban regions, poses unique challenges to children and families in rural regions. In 2017, urban neuropsychologists and a pediatrician practicing in a rural region of New Mexico started to develop a teleneuropsychology (TeleNP) consultation service model to efficiently triage and determine a clinical course of action. This pilot project, aimed at expanding clinical access to specialized pediatric services in rural areas, evolved over the course of 2 years prior to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. METHOD: Providers earned the trust of the local community, gained understanding of pertinent sociocultural factors, and acquired knowledge of the clinical and educational concerns for the children residing in the rural community. The application of a culturally informed approach that highlights the importance of community participation and collaboration steered the decision to implement a TeleNP consultation model. By widening access to neuropsychology, this service helped to determine whether neuropsychological testing procedures were medically indicated. RESULTS: We summarize the distinct processes that needed to occur at each location to support the implementation of telemedicine. We propose a clinical service decision tree with specific criteria to help guide providers on how to triage cases in order to increase access to specialized healthcare. CONCLUSION: The success of implementing a TeleNP consultation service hinges upon ongoing care coordination between providers, clerical staff, patients, and families with clear goals and expectations, maintenance of legal and ethical standards, and development of specific administrative and clinical processes supporting the use of TeleNP.
Towards resolving the enigma of the dichotomy of resveratrol: cis- and trans-resveratrol have opposite effects on TyrRS-regulated PARP1 activation

Unlike widely perceived, resveratrol (RSV) decreased the average lifespan and extended only the replicative lifespan in yeast. Similarly, although not widely discussed, RSV is also known to evoke neurite degeneration, kidney toxicity, atherosclerosis, premature senescence, and genotoxicity through yet unknown mechanisms. Nevertheless, in vivo animal models of diseases and human clinical trials demonstrate inconsistent protective and beneficial effects. Therefore, the mechanism of action of RSV that elicits beneficial effects remains an enigma. In a previously published work, we demonstrated structural similarities between RSV and tyrosine amino acid. RSV acts as a tyrosine antagonist and competes with it to bind to human tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (TyrRS). Interestingly, although both isomers of RSV bind to TyrRS, only the cis-isomer evokes a unique structural change at the active site to promote its interaction with poly-ADP-ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1), a major determinant of cellular NAD+-dependent stress response. However, retention of trans-RSV in the active site of TyrRS mimics its tyrosine-bound conformation that inhibits the auto-poly-ADP-ribos(PAR)ylation of PARP1. Therefore, we proposed that cis-RSV-induced TyrRS-regulated auto-PARylation of PARP1 would contribute, at least in part, to the reported health benefits of RSV through the induction of protective stress response. This observation suggested that trans-RSV would inhibit TyrRS/PARP1-mediated protective stress response and would instead elicit an opposite effect compared to cis-RSV. Interestingly, most recent studies also confirmed the conversion of trans-RSV and its metabolites to cis-RSV in the physiological context. Therefore, the finding that cis-RSV and trans-RSV induce two distinct conformations of TyrRS with opposite effects on the auto-PARylation of PARP1 provides a potential molecular basis for the observed dichotomic effects of RSV under different experimental paradigms. However, the fact that natural RSV exists as a diastereomeric mixture of its cis and trans isomers and cis-RSV is also a physiologically relevant isoform has not yet gained much scientific attention.
Incremental learning-based jammer classification

Jamming, whether intentional or not, threatens stable wireless communications by impeding a transmitted signal. New jamming technologies are regularly developed and deployed for use, which behave differently from their predecessors in order to bypass defense mechanisms. This makes existing jammer classifiers difficult to implement in fast changing dynamic environments, since human intervention is needed every time a new jamming technology is introduced. Improper maintenance will result in misclassification of the technology or allow jammers to pass through defenses. These scenarios will greatly reduce the performance of wireless networks and increase the response time for recovering from these attacks. As 5G continues to become more widespread, and other faster networks are released, wireless data rates will continue to grow. This furthers the need for a faster and more reliable jammer classifier, as shorter interruptions in service will cause even more data loss to occur. Incremental learning (IL) is a technique in machine learning that allows the introduction of new information to a previously trained network. Using IL, it is possible to create classifiers that can grow in number of classes without the need to retrain a new network from nothing. This allows remote devices to learn to adapt in dynamic environments with far lower memory cost. In this paper, we developed an IL-based jammer classifier using software defined radio (SDR) to detect when a jammer is present and classify the type and learn to classify new technologies when the type has not been encountered before.
Formation, growth, and electronic properties of microcrystalline organic semiconductors

Even though record organic semiconductor mobilities are reported for organic semiconductor single crystals, making thin film crystals remains difficult. We will show our efforts to understand crystal formation, epitaxy, and transport. In particular, we will discuss our efforts to realize pinhole free films of numerous organic semiconductors with 100s microns scale grains, and how the materials able to undergo a transition from amorphous to crystalline correlate well with thermal properties. Homoepitaxial studies uncover evidence of point and line defect formation in these films, indicating that homoepitaxy is not always strain-free. Transistors made out of large-grained films of rubrene display charge carrier mobility of up to 3.5 cm2 V–1 s–1, very close to single crystal values, highlighting their potential for practical application. Finally, we will show efforts in achieving heteroepitaxial growth of a different molecular material on top of a crystalline organic template.
Students’ Social Perceptions of Humility and Arrogance Among Band Directors:

In this study, I build on growing research examining humility in musical contexts by investigating whether band students perceive humility to be a positive and desirable social quality or a social ...
Acute fatty metamorphosis of the liver: A report of two patients who survived

Two patients with acute fatty metamorphosis of the liver of pregnancy who survived are presented. Clinical and pathologic features, possible etiologic factors, and principles of treatment are discussed. Both patients subsequently were allowed to become pregnant again, both had uncomplicated second pregnancies without evidence of liver disease, and both delivered healthy babies.
Gaze Deviation in Acute Stroke: Neuroimaging Evidence, Significance and Clinical Correlation (P1.132)

OBJECTIVE: Identify the threshold eye deviation on neuroimaging with highest diagnostic yield for acute stroke, correlate with clinical gaze assessment, stroke severity, and 90-day outcome. BACKGROUND: Acute stroke is an emergent diagnosis requiring prompt treatment. Clinical evidence of gaze deviation in acute stroke to the side of involved hemisphere is known. Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) is essential and data on diagnostic, prognostic utility of eye deviation on neuroimaging studies is limited. Particularly, in emergency care and challenging clinical settings, eye deviation on neuroimaging may have significant implications. METHODS: All patients in the acute stroke code database with 90-day outcome (UCSD SPOTRIAS 2005-13) will be included making this the largest neuroimaging review of eye deviation in acute stroke. Angles >5° (OD/OS) as noted on initial CT brain was regarded as presence of eye deviation (DeyeCOM sign). Data on demographics, medical history, pre-stroke mRS, symptom onset, ED arrival to CT time, baseline NIHSS, final primary diagnosis and outcome based on 90-day mRS was analyzed. RESULTS: Ongoing review identified 884 patients of which data on first 100 patients is reported. Mean age was 59 y, baseline NIHSS 5.4, and 58% male. DeyeCOM sign was noted in (83%, >10°=58%, >15°=36%, >20°=17%, and >25°=7%, and >30°=3%. DeyeCOM sign is likely associated with pre-stroke disability (p 0.059) and higher baseline NIHSS (p 0.01). No correlation was noted with clinical gaze assessment (NIHSS Item 2) or onset to CT time. Arrival to CT time was longer in patients with DeyeCOM sign (p=0.028). Association of DeyeCOM sign with DWI+ stroke was as follows: >5° (p 0.095), >10° (p 0.001), >15° (p 20° (p 0.063), >25° (p 0.041), and >30° (0.153). Degree of eye deviation was associated with higher disability (mRS 3-6) at 90 days (p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In this stroke code cohort, DeyeCOM sign correlates with a diagnosis of stroke, and suggests value to all physicians involved in diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke. Disclosure: Dr. Herial has nothing to disclose. Dr. Raman has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ernstrom has nothing to disclose. Dr. Coffman has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schlick has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rapp has nothing to disclose. Dr. Modir has nothing to disclose. Dr. Meyer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hemmen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Meyer has received personal compensation for activities with The Medicine9s Company as a speaker and advisory panel member, and with Genentech as a speaker.
Cholinergic neuromodulation and Alzheimer's disease: from single cells to network simulations.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the cholinergic hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a computational investigation of the neuromodulation of single cells and networks by acetylcholine in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. The chapter discusses the results that provide insight into the regulatory role of acetylcholine in learning, and recall and suggest novel mechanisms for the decline in memory function that accompanies AD. The cholinergic hypothesis of AD initially arose from the observed AD-related decreases in the activity of choline aceiyltransferase (ChAT), the enzyme responsible for synthesizing acetylcholine. This observation is made in post-mortem tissue but has since been confirmed in antemortem biopsies. This theory, tying low levels of acetylcholine to cognitive impairment, gained support from the observed decreases in choline uptake, decreases in ACh release, and the death of subcortical cholinergic neurons and the disappearance of cholinergic varicosities in the early stages of AD. This hypothesis led to the recent clinical trials of a variety of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors currently the first-line pharmacological approach to treating AD.
Abordagem ambiental interdisciplinar em bacias hidrográficas no estado do Paraná. Doi: 10.5212/TerraPlural.v.4i2.0009

A obra foi lancada em 2010 pela editora da FECILCAM ( Faculdade Estadual de Ciencias e Letras de Campo Mourao) . Trata-se de um livro que reune as contribuicoes de 10 pesquisadores das Ciencias Naturais em torno de um tema e de uma preocupacao comum: produzir material didatico de qualidade cientifica sobre as bacias hidrograficas do Estado do Parana, incluindo aspectos geologicos, paleoclimaticos, geograficos e biologicos relacionados a origem, formacao e as caracteristicas dessa rede hidrografica. A obra divide-se em cinco capitulos, ricos em elementos ilustrativos, esquemas e caixas de textos complementares, que permitem ao leitor se aprofundar ou compreender melhor certos topicos abordados no texto principal.
SCN− and HSCN transport through lipid bilayer membranes: A model for SCN− inhibition of gastric acid secretion

Abstract Diffusion of thiocyanate (SCN−) and thiocyanic acid (HSCN) (pK=−1.8) through lipid bilayer membranes was studied as a function of pH. Membranes were made of egg phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylcholine plus cholesterol (1:1 mol ratio) dissolved in decane or tetradecane. Tracer fluxes and electrical conductances were used to estimate the permeabilities to HSCN and SCN−. Over the pH range 1.0 to 3.3 only HSCN crosses the membrane at a significant rate. The relation between the total SCN flux (JA), concentrations and permeabilities is: 1/JA=1/Pul([A−]+[HA])+1/PHAm[HA], where [A−] and [HA] are the concentrations of SCN− and HSCN, Pul is permeability coefficient of the unstirred layer, and PHAm is the membrane permeability to HSCN. By fitting this equation to the data we find that PHAm = 2.6 cm · s−1 and Pul = 9.0 · 10−4 cm · s−1. Conductance measurements indicate that PA−m is 5 · 10−9 cm · s−1. Addition of cholesterol to phosphatidylcholine (1:1 mol ratio) reduces PHAm by a factor of 0.4 but has no effect on PA−m. SCN− is potent inhibitor of acid secretion in gastric mucosa, but the mechanism of SCN− action is unknown. Our results suggest that SCN− acts by combining with H+ in the mucosal unstirred layer (secretory pits) and diffusing back into the cells as HSCN, thus dissipating the proton gradient across the secretory membrane. A similar mechanism of action is proposed for some other inhibitors of gastric acid secretion, e.g. nitrite (NO2−), cyanate (CNO−) and NH4+.
Morphology, TNM staging and survival with Pancreatico-duodenectomy specimens received at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Pakistan.

Background: Whipple specimens consists of duodenum from the pylorus to the ligament of Treitz, the head of the pancreas and distal extrahepatic biliary tract, sometimes with most distal portion of the stomach. Adequate gross handling of the specimen and assessment of histological variables is of prognostic importance. Methods: At the Pathology Department of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, we here evaluated survival with a total of 65 pancreaticoduodenectomy specimens from 2006 to 2010 with reference to histological parameters like tumour type, site, size, grade, pT, pN, margin status and perineural invasion, and compared our results with international data. Patients were followed up and P-values were calculated regarding association between survival and prognostic factors, Kaplan-meier survival curves also being plotted. Results: Most of the patients were males (60%), with a mean age of 50 yrs. The most frequent site was periampullary region (43.2%), with adenocarcinoma, NOS accounting for 72.4%. G2 was the most common grade (58.5%) and the most frequent pT was pT2 (52.4%), nearly half presenting with lymph node metastasis (47.7%). Significant associations (p<0.05) were noted for survival with grade, pT, pN, margins, tumor size and perineural invasion, but not tumor site, tumor type and age. Kaplan-Meier curve revealed that at end of 1 month, 70% of the patients were alive, this decreasing to 40%, 15% and 5% and at the end of 6 months, 1 year and 2 years. Conclusion: Tumor size, type, pathologic T and N staging, margins and perineural invasion are directly related to survival with pancreatico-duodenal lesions.
Additional measurements of the high-latitude sunspot rotation rate /Research note/

Sunspot rotation rate measurements at high sunspot latitudes are reported for the period 1966-68, based on ten spots at latitudes greater than about 28 deg from H-alpha patrol records for this period. A sidereal rotation rate of 13.70 + or - 0.07 deg/day was found on the average, at 31.05 + or - 0.01 deg. Taken together, the full set of measurements in this latitude regime yield a rotation rate that is in excellent agreement with the result derived by Newton and Nunn (1951) from recurrent spots at lower latitudes throughout the six cycles from 1878 to 1944.
The significance of hydroperiod and stand maturity for pool-breeding amphibians in forested landscapes

The loss of small seasonal wetlands and adjacent forested habitat is a major threat to pool-breeding amphibians in North America. Identifying environmental correlates of breeding effort (and success) in remaining intact landscapes is a critical first step in conservation planning. Little is known about how pool-breeding amphibian populations respond to fine-scale variations in hydroperiod or neighboring forest structure and composition. We studied these associations for wood frogs (Rana sylvatica LeConte, 1825) and spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum(Shaw, 1802)) in a forested New England landscape (southern Maine, USA). We conducted egg mass counts across two seasons at 87 strictly seasonal pools. The influence of hydroperiod and landscape (150 and 500 m scales) habitat characteristics on breeding effort were investigated. Pools with longer hydroperiods (‡18 weeks post breeding) that were relatively isolated from other breeding wetlands (<13 neighboring pools within 150 m and <19 within 500 m) supported larger breeding populations of both wood frogs and spotted salamanders. Salamander breeding populations were largest in relatively mature forests. Natural- ized, anthropogenic pools supported comparable levels of breeding effort with that of natural pools. Conservation plan- ning for wood frogs and spotted salamanders should incorporate pools at the longer end of the seasonal hydroperiod gradient.
The weight-bearing abduction brace for the treatment of Legg-Perthes disease

We reviewed the cases of thirty-one patients (thirty-four hips) who had had severe Legg-Perthes disease (Catterall group III, five hips and group IV, twenty-nine hips) and had been treated with a weight-bearing abduction orthosis, to determine the effectiveness of the brace. The mean age of the patients when they were first seen was six years (range, three to twelve years). The mean duration of follow-up was seven years (range, two to thirteen years). At the most recent follow-up, all hips were rated with the method of Mose and the classification of Stulberg et al. According to the criteria of Mose, no hip had a good result, twelve (35 per cent) had a fair result, and twenty-two (65 per cent) had a poor result. On the basis of the classification of Stulberg et al., there were fourteen (41 per cent) class-II results, eighteen (53 per cent) class-III and IV results, and two (6 per cent) class-V results. Although containment is the most widely accepted principle of treatment for patients who have Legg-Perthes disease, and the Atlanta Scottish Rite-type orthosis is the most commonly used orthosis for this condition, there are few clinical data supporting the effectiveness of this device. On the basis of our results, we do not recommend the use of a weight-bearing abduction brace for the treatment of severely involved hips.
Factor graphs and iterative algorithms

We review the notion of factor graphs and give an overview of recent developments in the field. Factor graphs provide a framework in which iterative algorithms and iteratively decodable codes are easily described. They are obtained as a slight modification of the graphs, which were introduced by Wiberg, Loeliger and Koetter (1995). The notion of factor graphs is related to other graphical models, such as Bayesian networks and Markov random fields, and allows an easy integration of the decoding task and related problems in a communication system, such as channel estimation and equalization. Recently a number of research topics involving factor graphs have developed. These include the construction and representation of codes on graphs and an analysis of iterative decoding algorithm stemming from the theory of dynamical systems.
A Matched-Pair Cluster-Randomized Trial of Guided Care for High-Risk Older Patients

BACKGROUND Patients at risk for generating high health care expenditures often receive fragmented, low-quality, inefficient health care. Guided Care is designed to provide proactive, coordinated, comprehensive care for such patients.
Expression of pluripotent stem cell markers in the human fetal ovary

BACKGROUND Human primordial germ cells (PGCs) can give rise to pluripotent stem cells such as embryonal carcinoma cells (ECCs) and embryonic germ cells (EGCs). METHODS In order to determine whether PGCs express markers associated with pluripotency in EGCs and ECCs, the following study cross examines the expression patterns of multiple pluripotent markers in the human fetal ovary, 5.5-15 weeks post-fertilizaton (pF) and relates this expression with the ability to derive pluripotent EGCs in vitro. RESULTS Specific subpopulations were identified which included OCT4(+)/Nanog(+)/cKIT(+)/VASA(+) PGCs and oogonia. Interestingly, these cells also expressed SSEA1 and alkaline phosphatase (AP) and SSEA4 expression occurred throughout the entire gonad. Isolation of SSEA1(+) cells from the gonad resulted in AP(+) EGC colony formation. The number of OCT4(+) or Nanog(+) expressing cells peaked by week 8 and then diminished after week 9 pF, as oogonia enter meiosis. In addition, the efficiency of EGC derivation was associated with the number of OCT4(+) cells. TRA-1-60 and TRA-1-81 were only detected in the lining of the mesonephric ducts and occasionally in the gonad. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that PGCs, a unipotent cell, express most, but not all, of the markers associated with pluripotent cells in the human fetal ovary.
ESR studies of local concentrations of radicals in polyethylene irradiated at 1.5, 4.2 and 77 K

Abstract The microwave power saturation behaviour of alkyl radicals in polyethylene irradiated at 1.5, 4.2 and 77 K suggests that the local concentrations of radicals in spurs is considerably higher in the samples irradiated at 1.5 and 4.2 K. Upon annealing the samples at 77 K, the local concentrations became nearly the same as those of the sample irradiated at 77 K. The decrease of the local concentrations at 77 K was larger than that of the total concentrations suggesting an expansion of the initial spur at 77 K.
Sensitivity analysis: unexpected outcomes in art and engineering

Contemporary art and engineering research are both at their best when things don't turn out as planned. I'll present selected examples based on artworks developed with students and other collaborators involving robots and networks over the past 20 years. These projects set out to investigate intersections of technology and nature, such as the Telegarden, a robot installation that allowed online participants to remotely tend a living garden; Ballet Mori, a classical dance performed to sounds triggered by live seismic data; and Demonstrate, where an ultra high-resolution video camera raised eyebrows at the 40th anniversary of the Free Speech Movement. Every project led to unexpected twists and complications...I'll also argue that the languages of contemporary art and engineering research are complex, dynamic, and often frustratingly impenetrable to outsiders. In art, a blue disk can be a cliche, or, in the right place at the right time, profound. In engineering, analogous contexts determine the beauty of a coordinate frame or mathematical equation. In both spheres, aesthetic interpretation is based on knowledge of prior art and contemporary dialogues. Being so similar, it is not surprising that unexpected forces arise when these two spheres are brought together.
Contraceptive practice and repeat induced abortion: an epidemiological investigation

The relationship between abortion experience and contraceptive practice is examined among women having a first or repeat induced abortion at the same clinic(n=443 in each group). A previous abortion was the single most important predictor of past contraceptive practices and of contraception at the conception of the pregnancy being terminated. A previous abortion was associated with greater use of all methods of contraception among women not on welfare (P < 0·001). During the 18–month study the proportion of patients who had had previous abortions rose from 13·3% to 21·1%, and those undergoing repeat abortions appeared increasingly likely to be on welfare. Contraceptive practies did not change over time except for women on welfare having repeat abortions who became less likely to have used contraception at the time of conception (p < 0·05). While the experience of abortion is generally associated with improved contraceptive practice, many women in this population, particularly those on welfare, appear to remain exposed to unprotected coitus and subsequent repeat abortion.
An Analysis of Pediatric Vaccine Formulary Selection Problems

Vaccination against infectious disease is hailed as one of the great achievements in public health. However, the United States Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule is becoming increasingly complex as it is expanded to cover additional diseases. Moreover, biotechnology advances have allowed vaccine manufacturers to create combination vaccines that immunize against several diseases in a single injection. All these factors are creating a combinatorial explosion of alternatives and choices (each with a different cost) for public health policy makers, pediatricians, and parents/guardians (each with a different perspective). The General Vaccine Formulary Selection Problem (GVFSP) is introduced to model general childhood immunization schedules that can be used to illuminate these alternatives and choices by selecting a vaccine formulary that minimizes the cost of fully immunizing a child and the amount of extraimmunization. Both exact algorithms and heuristics for GVFSP are presented. A computational comparison of these algorithms and heuristics is presented for the 2006 Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule, as well as several randomly generated childhood immunization schedules that are likely to be representative of future childhood immunization schedules. The results reported here provide both fundamental insights into the structure of the GVFSP models and algorithms and practical value for the public health community.
Crystal and molecular structure of geiparvarin

The structure of the antitumor agent geiparvarin was determined by direct methods from CuKα diffractometer data. The crystals of synthetic geiparvarin have the space groupP21/c witha = 8.305(1),b = 11.077(1),c = 18.287(1) A, β = 98.79(1) °, andZ = 4. The structure was refined toR = 0.047. The chemically determined structure was confirmed. Bond distances and angles are normal and there are no unusual C-H ⋯ O intermolecular contacts.
A first-principles study of the mechanical properties of g-GeC

Abstract We investigate the mechanical properties of graphene-like hexagonal germanium carbide monolayers (g-GeC) using first-principles calculations based on density-functional theory. Compared to graphene, g-GeC is much softer, with 41% in-plane stiffness, 44%, 42% and 37% ultimate strengths in armchair, zigzag, and biaxial strains respectively, as well as smaller ultimate strains. However, g-GeC has a larger Poisson’s ratio, 0.28, about 1.5 times that of graphene. We obtained the second, third, fourth, and fifth order elastic constants for a rigorous continuum description of the elastic response of g-GeC. The second order elastic constants, including in-plane stiffness, are predicted to monotonically increase with pressure while the Poisson’s ratio monotonically decreases with increasing pressure. The sound velocity of a compressional wave has a minima at an in-plane pressure of −7 GPa while that of a shear wave monotonically with pressure.
Birefringent and rheologic properties of milling yellow suspensions

Aqueous suspensions of Milling Yellow dye have been found to lie useful for engineering flaw studies by employing established birefringent techniques. In the present work, the basic birefringent and rheologic properties of Milling Yellow suspensions wore measured for a range of deformation rates important to the engineering applications. A concentric-cylinder polariscope was used to measure the amount of birefringence and the angle of extinction for ten Milling Yellow suspensions at 25°C. varying in concentration from 1.25 to 1.46% dye by weight. The optical properties exhibited by these suspensions are similar to those of a number of colloidal suspensions as reported by past investigators. Rheologic data for Milling Yellow suspensions in the same concentration range were measured at 25°C. for deformation rates of 50–10 sec.−1 by means of a capillary viscometer. Over the complete range of deformation rates the rheologic data are accurately described with the Powell-Eyring relationship for pseudo-plastic materials.
Low-temperature scanning electron microscope analysis of the portland cement paste early hydration

Abstract The use of the frozen hydrated scanning electron microscopy (FHSEM) in the study of cement paste is described. This technique permits analysis of the fractured surface of cement paste in a fully hydrated state with water present as ice in a low temperature scanning electron microscope. At 110 K the paste has a substantial increase in mechanical strength, because water is converted from liquid to a solid state, and this permits the use of bulk specimens at very early hydration. Some preliminary results for 1 hour hydration are presented and future applications of this technique are discussed.
Non-native capillary isoelectric focusing for the analysis of the microheterogeneity of glycoproteins

Abstract A simple capillary isoelectric focusing method in bare fused-silica capillaries under denaturing conditions was developed for the separation of the glyco-isoforms of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) which have pI values ranging from pH 6 to 8. The glycoprotein was denatured in 8 M urea and separated in the presence of 0.75% carrier ampholytes, 0.4% hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and 4 M urea. Excellent separation of the glyco-isoforms of rTPA was achieved. Good reproducibilities for peak area and migration times were obtained using pressure mobilization of the focused protein zones. The method optimized for rTPA was also successfully applied to other glycoproteins (recombinant human erythropoetin and a monoclonal antibody) with different carbohydrate contents (3–55%).
Design of self-diagnostic boards by signature analysis

The authors present a single-faulty-chip diagnostic technique which requires only two reference signatures for any number of chips on the original board. With this technique, it is possible to reduce substantially the hardware overhead compared to the diagnostic technique based on separate testing of each chip on the board. The technique can be also used for identification of faulty printed boards in a system or for identification of faulty processors in a multiprocessor system. >
Somatosensory processing and borderline personality disorder: Pain perception and a signal detection analysis of proprioception and exteroceptive sensitivity.

Approximately two thirds of those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) who self-injure report diminished sensitivity to pain during acts of self-harm. Research on pain perception suggests that abnormalities of the motivational-affective domain likely contribute to the commonly reported hypo-analgesia evidenced in BPD. It is not that BPD individuals cannot detect or feel painful stimuli, rather their response to it seems to reflect differences in tolerance and willingness to report a stimulus as painful. Although specific processes involved with pain insensitivity have been debated in literature, the likelihood of generalized dysfunction in the somatosensory systems in BPD has not been considered. Prior BPD research has focused only on the pain submodality of somatosensation. This study assessed pain perception (nociception), basic touch (exteroception), and body sense (proprioception) somatosensory submodalities, in an effort to determine if generalized somatosensory deficits are present in BPD. Subjects diagnosed with DSM-IV BPD (n = 27) were compared with individuals who had a history of major depressive disorder with no current psychopathology (n = 20), and normal controls (n = 44), all drawn from a community setting. Individuals with BPD evidenced higher pain endurance and tolerance, but did not demonstrate generalized somatosensory deficits, as evidenced by appropriate functioning on tasks of exteroceptive and proprioceptive sensitivity. Findings are consistent with (but do not prove) a specific dysfunction in the pain-specific mechanism of sensitivity and perception in BPD, perhaps one that does not disturb the other somatosensory modalities. These data help to provide a firmer empirical basis for pain insensitivity as an endophenotype for BPD.
Pulsed field magnets at the US NHMFL

Abstract The pulsed field facility of the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL) consists of four components. Now available are (1) explosive flux compression,(2) capacitor-driven magnets, and (3) a 20 T superconducting magnet. The fourth component, a 60 T quasi-continuous magnet, has been designed and is scheduled for installation in early 1995. All magnets have He-4 cryostats giving temperatures from room temperature (RT) to 2.2–1.5 K. Dilution refrigerators for the superconducting 20 T magnet and the 50 T pulsed magnet will be installed by early 1994. A wide range of experiments have been completed within the past year.
Hospital Emergency Department Visits Attributed to Pulpal and Periapical Disease in the United States in 2006

Abstract Background Relatively localized conditions such as infection of the pulp or periapical tissues if left untreated could spread and require hospital care. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence of such hospital-based emergency department (ED) visits, to quantify hospital charges associated with those visits, and to identify characteristics of those members of the population who are likely to make such visits. Methods The experimental design of this study involves the use of The Nationwide Emergency Department Sample for the year 2006. All discharges with a primary diagnosis code for pulpal and periapical diseases (International Classification of Disease, Clinical Modification [ICD-9-CM] code of 522) were selected for analysis. All estimates were projected to national levels using the discharge weight variables. Results In the United States, during the year 2006, a total of 403,149 ED visits had a primary diagnosis code for pulp and periapical diseases. The average patient age was 32.9 years. The mean hospital charge for ED visits was $480, and the total charges for all the ED visits in the United States was $163,692,957. Among the ED visits, 5,721 were admitted to the same hospital for inpatient care. The mean length of stay after hospitalization was 2.95 days. The uninsured (39.92%) constituted the largest proportion of all ED visits. Conclusions This study identifies high-risk groups that are likely to present to hospital-based EDs for the treatment of pulp and periapical diseases. This highlights the need for significant resources to treat such patients in a hospital care setting.
Hispanic Familism Reconsidered: Ethnic Differences in Perceived Value of Children and Fertility Intentions.

Familism has been described as a cultural trait that might explain why the fertility of Hispanic women remains higher than non-Hispanic White women. Still, few studies have analyzed group differences in childbearing attitudes. This paper focuses on two dimensions of childbearing orientation: social value of children and fertility intentions. Using the National Survey of Family Growth we find limited support for the idea that familism undergirds differentials in fertility between native-born Hispanics and Whites. However, for foreign-born Hispanics, there are some differences in the perceived value of children compared with Whites, and these differences could contribute to fertility differentials.
Phosphorus nuclear magnetic resonance studies of heart physiology

Abstract 31 P NMR at 72.9 MHz using a 25-mm-diameter phosphorus probe has been used to study correlations among cardiac metabolism, tissue pH, and contractile performance. In all studies, isovolumic left ventricular pressure (LVP) was measured in the paced hearts. Under these conditions, excellent spectra were collected in 5 min, on 6-g rabbit hearts. Good spectra were obtained in 30-sec intervals. Rapid sequential spectra illustrate the metabolic and pH events associated with the onset and recovery of total, global ischemia. Tissue pH was stable for the first minute, but then fell from 7.4 to 6.9 by 6 min, and progressed to a value of 6.4 after 40 min. During the first minute, LVP fell 80%. Metabolites and tissue pH recovered within 6 min of reperfusion, a time when ventricular pressure remained depressed by 50%. These results suggest that both the early fall and initial postischernic recovery of ventricular pressure may not be exclusively regulated by tissue pH, as estimated by NMR. We also used NMR to investigate the metabolic changes associated with regional ischemia. The 31 P NMR spectrum of a regionally ischemic, perfused rabbit heart showed two inorganic phosphate (P i ) peaks. Before ligation there was only a single P i signal at a position corresponding to one of the peaks noted during regional ischemia. Since the resonance frequency of the P i peak is determined by pH and since ischemia causes acidosis the two signals in the regionally ischemic heart result from P i at different intracellular pH values in the normal (pH 7.4) and ischemic zones (pH 6.4). And finally, we compared the status of KCl-arrested, ischemic rabbit hearts and non-KCl-treated hearts and correlated the 31 P NMR spectra with the ability of the heart to return to normal function following a period of ischemia. A rabbit heart was arrested by perfusing it with 30 m M KCl and was then made globally ischemic; a second heart was made ischemic without KCl arrest. After 40 min of global ischemia the KCl-arrested heart showed a near-normal level of ATP, low P i and a pH of 7.0. The nonarrested heart, on the other hand, showed low ATP, high P i , and a pH of 6.4. On reperfusion, the KCl-arrested heart recovered 100% of control function within 5 min but the control heart recovered only 70% of control function after 30 min. The 31 P NMR confirms that KCl arrest preserves ischemic myocardial metabolites and suggests that it can be used to test currently untried treatments for functional protection.