cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Posterior Approach to Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Displaced Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Osseous Avulsions.

Background The true prevalence of displaced tibial-sided avulsion injuries of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL; Video 1) is unknown, and the majority of data regarding management has been published in areas other than the Western world, such as China and India (perhaps due to the higher prevalence of two-wheeler motorcycle accidents in these areas). Despite the rarity of data, a better understanding of the approach, fixation techniques, and outcomes is necessary to provide quality patient care. These injuries generally require surgical intervention as nonoperative management leads to complications-specifically, knee arthrofibrosis1,2. There is no consensus regarding the optimal surgical approach for these injuries. A recent systematic review demonstrated that both open and arthroscopic surgical treatment provide satisfactory complication rates and outcomes in the majority of cases3. However, the arthroscopic approach can be performed by only a highly skilled arthroscopist; thus, in this article we focus on the open approach to reach a broader audience of capable surgeons. Description The principal steps for open reduction and internal fixation of the tibial avulsion fracture include the following:Place the patient in a prone position and utilize a curvilinear L-shaped incision with the longitudinal portion over the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle and the transverse portion starting distal to the joint line and extending laterally past the midline.Develop the interval between the semimembranosus and medial gastrocnemius muscles, as originally described by Burks and Schaffer4. Lateral retraction of the gastrocnemius muscle exposes the posterior aspect of the capsule, allowing for a vertical capsular incision to adequately visualize the avulsed osseous fragment.Prepare the osseous bed and remove hematoma and/or debris.Reduce the avulsed fragment and obtain provisional fixation with Kirschner wires.Confirm reduction under fluoroscopy with emphasis on sagittal plane alignment.Obtain definitive fixation with the method dictated by the fracture orientation. Options include screw(s) with or without a washer, sutures, Kirschner wires, staples, and toothed plates2,5-7. Alternatives An arthroscopic approach can be performed, with results that are similar to those of an open procedure, but considerable expertise is required to perform this procedure arthroscopically. Nonsurgical management is not recommended as it frequently leads to loss of knee motion. Rationale The exact operative indications for PCL injuries remain in question, but we believe that displaced tibial avulsion injuries at the PCL attachment always require operative treatment.
A model of reward-modulated motor learning with parallelcortical and basal ganglia pathways.

Many recent studies of the motor system are divided into two distinct approaches: Those that investigate how motor responses are encoded in cortical neurons' firing rate dynamics and those that study the learning rules by which mammals and songbirds develop reliable motor responses. Computationally, the first approach is encapsulated by reservoir computing models, which can learn intricate motor tasks and produce internal dynamics strikingly similar to those of motor cortical neurons, but rely on biologically unrealistic learning rules. The more realistic learning rules developed by the second approach are often derived for simplified, discrete tasks in contrast to the intricate dynamics that characterize real motor responses. We bridge these two approaches to develop a biologically realistic learning rule for reservoir computing. Our algorithm learns simulated motor tasks on which previous reservoir computing algorithms fail, and reproduces experimental findings including those that relate motor learning to Parkinson's disease and its treatment.
Classical Mechanics and Motor Control

In order to control the execution of limb movements, the central nervous system must solve complex problems of mechanics. A substantial body of evidence supports the view that, to solve these problems, the nervous system develops internal representations of the mechanics of the body coupled with its environment. Thus, through the process of motor learning, the brain becomes implicitly an ‘expert’ in classical mechanics. After discussing the problems of kinematics and dynamics associated with the control of movement, this article introduces the formal definitions and the empirical evidence that constitute the underpinnings of the theory of internal representations in motor control. In particular, the article focuses on the formation of internal dynamic models and on the nature of the computational primitives that are believed to be used by the central nervous system to form such internal representations.
A Bell, A Rock, A Crystal

To bring the relationship between tuning and spectrum into sharper focus, this chapter looks at three examples in detail: an ornamental hand bell, a resonant rock from Chaco Canyon, and an “abstract” sound created from a morphine crystal. All three are discussed at length, and each step is detailed so as to highlight the practical issues, techniques, and trade-offs that arise when applying the ideas to real sounds making real music. The bell, rock, and crystal were used as the basis for three compositions: Tingshaw, The Chaco Canyon Rock, and Duet for Morphine and Cymbal, which appear on the accompanying CD on tracks [16], [17], and [18].
Big Data, Machine Judges, and the Legitimacy of the Criminal Justice System

Predictive algorithms are rapidly spreading throughout the criminal justice system. They are used to more efficiently allocate police resources, identify potentially dangerous individuals, and advise judges at bail hearings and sentencing determinations. These algorithms have the potential to increase the accuracy, efficiency, and fairness of the criminal justice system, and they have been criticized on the grounds that they may reinforce pre-existing biases against minorities. But one aspect of these tools that has not yet been discussed in the literature is whether they will be accepted as legitimate. For centuries, these critical decisions that affect people’s safety and liberty have been made by human beings; now, for the first time in human history, we are delegating large aspects of these decisions to machines. This article addresses whether people will be willing to accept this change, and if not, how we can adapt the algorithms in order to make them more acceptable. In determining whether predictive algorithms are likely to be accepted by criminal defendants, the article draws on the field of procedural justice, which sets out numerous factors that determine whether a participant in a judicial proceeding believes that the process is fair. The article finds that predictive algorithms do not fare particularly well on these factors: they may not be seen as trustworthy or neutral, and they do not give defendants a significant opportunity to participate in the process. The article suggests that criminal defendants would be more likely to view predictive algorithms as legitimate if the algorithms were made more transparent, and if they were designed to ensure that they did not use data that was tainted by past discriminatory practices. The article then examines whether the general population is likely to perceive predictive algorithms as legitimate. It examines various psychological barriers that people have with regard to accepting predictive algorithms. The article presents an original empirical study of six hundred individuals who were presented with a hypothetical case in which a judge uses a predictive algorithm to assist in a bail hearing. The study indicates that individuals are likely to accept predictive algorithms, as long as certain criteria are met.
Imaging Surveillance for Surgically Resected Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Is More Always Better?

Abstract Objective Routine surveillance imaging for patients with resected non–small cell lung cancer is standard for the detection of disease recurrence and new primary lung cancers. However, surveillance intensity varies widely in practice, and its influence on long-term outcomes is poorly understood. We hypothesized that surveillance intensity was not associated with 5-year overall survival in patients with resected stage I non–small cell lung cancer. Additionally, we examined patterns of recurrence and new primary lung cancer development. Methods Cancer registrars at the Commission on Cancer accredited institutions re-abstracted records to augment National Cancer Database patient data with information on comorbidities, imaging surveillance including intent and result of imaging, and recurrence (2007-2012). Pathologic stage I non–small cell lung cancer patients undergoing computed tomography surveillance were placed into 3 imaging surveillance groups based on clinical practice guidelines: high intensity (3 month), moderate intensity (6 month), and low intensity (annual). Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression were used to compare overall survival among the 3 surveillance groups. Results Two thousand four hundred forty-two patients were identified, with 805 (33%), 1216 (50%), and 421 (17%) patients in the high, moderate, and low surveillance intensity groups, respectively. Five-year overall survival was similar between intensity groups (P = .547). Surveillance on asymptomatic patients detected 210 (63%) cases of locoregional recurrences and 128 (72%) cases of new primary lung cancer. Conclusions In a unique national dataset of long-term outcomes for stage I non–small cell lung cancer, surveillance intensity was not associated with 5-year overall survival.
A Review of State Criminal Trade Secret Theft Statutes

Trade secret theft in the United States is a serious problem and criminal penalties exist for this misconduct in both federal and state statutes. For twenty years, the literature in this area has focused almost entirely on the federal statute, the Economic Espionage Act. However, federal prosecutors have shown little interest in bringing charges under this statute unless the case involves theft of trade secrets owned by large corporations or economic espionage by agents of a foreign government. Small to mid-sized companies that have been victims of trade secret theft often must rely on state-specific criminal statutes. Unfortunately, not much has been written about these state statutes even though most have been around for fifty years. This information would be useful to business owners contemplating pressing criminal charges against an offender for trade secret theft. The purpose of this article is to review state criminal trade secret theft statutes in the United States.
Antibiotics Versus No Antibiotics for Acute Uncomplicated Diverticulitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND:Antibiotics are routinely used for diverticulitis irrespective of severity. Current practice guidelines favor against the use of antibiotics for acute uncomplicated diverticulitis.OBJECTIVE:We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the role of antibiotic use in an epis
Characterizing adolescents with heavy menstrual bleeding and generalized joint hypermobility

Patients with generalized joint hypermobility (JHM) may experience excessive bruising/bleeding, with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) commonly reported. We performed a retrospective review of 30 adolescents seen in a Young Women's Hematology Clinic with both HMB and JHM. We found that (1) a significant delay (mean 36 months, range 5-72) occurred between menarche and referral to specialty care, (2) HMB had moderate to severe impact on school and physical activities in 60% of patients, and (3) most patients (68%) required escalation of their initial therapy. We suggest providers consider JHM as a risk factor for a more complex clinical course.
Fighting from the Pulpit: Religious Leaders and Violent Conflict in Israel:

Religious leaders greatly influence their constituents’ political behavior. Yet, it is unclear what events trigger nationalist attitudes among religious leaders and why this effect occurs more amon...
Asymmetric impact of economic value-added dynamics on market value of stocks in Pakistan stock exchange, a new evidence from panel co-integration, FMOLS and DOLS

Shareholders' wealth maximization is the ultimate objective of firms. Economic value added (EVA) is a financial metric linked to shareholders' wealth maximization. Prior studies revealing the effic...
Study of a magnetorheological brake under compression-shear mode

A magnetorheological (MR) brake under compression-shear mode is designed, simulated and experimentally investigated in this paper. A MR brake under compression-shear mode was first designed considering compression enhanced shear yield stress of MR fluid. Then, the operating principle of the MR brake was illustrated and mathematical torque expressions, operating under compression-shear mode assuming Herschel–Bulkley model, was further established. Moreover, simulation analysis of the designed magnetic circuit was performed as well. An experimental prototype was fabricated and tested to evaluate the transmission performance of MR brake. The results showed that the large torque could be produced at high applied currents, high compressive stress, large compressive strain and small initial gap distances. The rotational speed and compressive speed had little effect on the torque. The characteristic rising time of the torque was greatly affected by the rotational speed, the compressive strain, and compressive speed. However, the current had little effect on the rising time. The time constant would became shorter when both the rotational speed and the compressive speed were faster. Through analyzing the compression of particle chains in MR fluids directly, it was found that the diameter and the length of the particles chains brought a strong influence on the essential property of MR fluids under compression. Thus, the compressive stress or compressive strain and the initial gap distance also played an important role in enhancing the torque. The results also showed that the proposed MR brake could generate a maximum torque of 241 Nm, about 17.9 times the magnitude of braking torque without compression, and achieve a high torque density of 125.6 kN m–2 and a time constant of 58 ms. This study provides a better understanding of MR brake under compression-shear mode and the implications for many high-power applications.
Discerning justice: clarifying the role of procedural and interactional justice in restorative conferencing

Research suggests that offenders perceive restorative justice (RJ) conferences as more just and reintegrative than standard court proceedings. Yet, little research focuses on how the nature of the ...
The management of the hospitalized ulcerative colitis patient: the medical-surgical conundrum.

Purpose of review In this review article, we address emerging evidence for the medical and surgical treatment of the hospitalized patient with ulcerative colitis. Recent findings Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease involving the colon and rectum. About one-fifth of patients will be hospitalized from ulcerative colitis, and about 20-30%, experiencing an acute flare will undergo colectomy. Because of the significant clinical consequences, patients hospitalized need prompt evaluation for potential complications, stratification of disease severity, and a multidisciplinary team approach to therapy, which involves both the gastroenterologist and surgeon. Although corticosteroids remain first-line therapy, second-line medical rescue options, primarily infliximab or cyclosporine, are considered within 3-5 days of presentation. In conjunction, an early surgical consultation to present the possibility of a staged proctocolectomy as one of the therapeutic options is equally important. Summary A coordinated multidisciplinary, individualized approach to treatment, involving the patient preferences throughout the process, is optimal in providing patient-centered effective care.
Overcoming the Trade-Off between Loss and Dispersion in Microresonators

We overcome the trade-off between loss and dispersion in high Q microresonators by engineering their cross-section along the length. We show high quality factor of 8.0 million, corresponding to a propagation loss of 4.7 dB/m.
Lost in The Haze: Knowledge and Practice Gaps For Vaping Versus Tobacco Smoke Exposure.

Introduction: E-cigarette use, or vaping is epidemic in adolescents. Twenty percent of high school and 5% of middle school students reported vaping use. The CDC has reported more than 2700 hospitalized cases and 60 deaths linked to vaping. Vaping related illness presents with respiratory or non-respiratory symptoms and the history is not easily offered by teenagers. Objectives: -Measure the knowledge gaps and practice differences toward vaping versus tobacco smoke exposure. - Assess confidence, perceived barriers, and …
Psychocutaneous disorders

Dermatologic conditions are commonly associated with psychiatric sequella, eg, urticaria, alopecia, psoriasis, or acne. Moreover, the onset and course of dermatologic disorders may be significantly influenced by stress, emotional disturbances, or psychiatric disorder. Compulsions involving the skin, excoriations, or hair pulling (trichotillomania) are the more frequently encountered problems. In some cases, skin conditions are self-induced or reflect signs or symptoms of an underlying psychiatric disorder, including psychosis or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Additionally, skin lesions have been frequently described in case reports of factitious dermatitis. Finally, adverse effects of psychotropic drugs may cause dermatologic side effects, mostly idiosyncratic skin eruptions. These problems are discussed with emphasis on clinical features, comorbidity, and psychiatric management.
Poisoning the Ivy: The Seven Deadly Sins and Other Vices of Higher Education in America

This text discusses the attitudinal and behavioural differences between government employees, bureaucrats and other citizens in America. Focusing on implications for government spending and for growth in the size of the public sector, it analyses the bureau voting model of government growth.
APSIM-Lucerne Validation in the Temperate Climate of New Zealand

Shoot yield data collected from an irrigated lucerne (Medicago sativa) crop at Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand (43°38′S, 172°28′E, 11 m a.s.l.) from 1997–01 were used to validate the APSIM-lucerne crop model for a temperate climate. Adjustments to APSIM-lucerne were required to account for autumn shoot death through frosting, defoliation of leaf area as occurs from animal grazing, a change in low temperature response for thermal time accumulation, a reset of stem population as they reduced over time and inclusion of a radiation use efficiency function to account for low temperatures.
Sleep impairment and insomnia in sickle cell disease: a retrospective chart review of clinical and psychological indicators.

Purpose To examine clinical and psychological indicators associated with sleeplessness and insomnia in adult patients with sickle cell. Data sources PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library. Data were collected from adult sickle cell participants (N = 72) in outpatient clinics at a Midwest National Cancer Institute designated comprehensive cancer center. A retrospective chart review observed for clinical and psychological indicators associated with sleeplessness and insomnia. Conclusions Findings included that adults with sickle cell experienced insomnia (47%) and sleep impairment (15%). Significant associations existed between pain and sleep impairment (p = .00), insomnia and pain (p = .00), morning hours of sleep (p = .00), and evening hours (p = .00). Pain may contribute to insomnia or interrupt sleep; daytime sleeping was not conducive to nighttime sleep. Anxiolytics, antidepressants, and long-acting opioids were not associated with insomnia (p = .00, p = .43, and p = .10), respectively; reduction in anxiety may reduce insomnia. Long-acting opioids may provide for improved pain control sleep. Implications for practice Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in the assessment of sleep impairment or disorders. Effective management is necessary for improved quality of life. Further investigation is warranted to understand the meaning of sleep impairment in adult patients with sickle cell with prospective controlled studies to examine the efficacy of interventions.
New Tricks with Old Bones

Paleogenomic researchers are finding new ways to solve the problems of sample rarity and contamination.
Postoperative seroma formation after abdominoplasty with placement of continuous infusion local anesthetic pain pump

The most common complication after abdominoplasty is seroma formation. The incidence of seroma formation in abdominal procedures as a whole, including abdominoplasty, panniculectomy and transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap abdominal donor sites, ranges from 1% to 38%. A recent concern among surgeons is the possibility of a causal relationship between the use of continuous infusion devices such as local anesthetic pain pumps and the development of seromas. A case of postoperative, persistent, recurrent seroma formation after abdominoplasty with the use of continuous infusion local anesthetic pain pump is presented. After several attempts at aspiration and drain catheter placement, only open surgical excision of the seroma cavity was found to be definitively effective in treating the development of seroma.
Mechanical comparison of two suture constructs for extra-capsular stifle stabilization.

Objective: Mechanical evaluation of 2 suture constructs for extracapsular stifle stabilization. Study Design: In vitro study. Sample Population: Crimped interlocking loop constructs (ILC) of 45 kg nylon leader line (NLL) and Orthofiber® (OF). Methods: ILC were tightened to 100 N, then crimp secured. Ramp to failure (n=10/group)—Data were derived from force/displacement plots. Stress–relaxation testing (n=10/group)—ILC's were nondestructively loaded and held at resultant displacement as force data were recorded. Incremental, cyclic loading (n=10/group)—ILC's were loaded (5 cycles/set) starting at 100 N and incrementally increased by 50 N (1 and 3 Hz protocols). Loop tension and elongation were recorded after each set. Results: Ramp to failure—initial loop tension was similar (NLL 75.5 ± 9.5 N; OF 68.7 ± 10.4 N, P=.140). Tested OF constructs were stiffer (NLL 125.7 ± 4.0; OF 234.6 ± 25.0 N/mm, P≤.001), had lower yield load (NLL 193.6 ± 13.8; OF 137.3 ± 94.3 N, P≤.001), lower peak load (NLL 873.7 ± 68.6; OF 653.6 ± 80.2 N, P≤.001), and lower elongation at failure (NLL 19.1 ± 1.4; OF 5.2 ± 1.0 mm, P≤.001) and at yield (NLL 1.52 ± 0.2; OF 0.3 ± 0.6 mm, P=.003) than NLL constructs. Yield in NLL ILC's was variable knot tightening/crimp slippage, but only crimp-suture slippage in OF. Stress–relaxation testing—OF demonstrated greater relaxation. Incremental, cyclic loading—induced ILC elongation and tension loss in both groups, independent of loading frequency. NLL lost tension at lower rate, but elongated more than OF. Conclusions: NLL construct is mechanically superior to OF construct.
Control of sarcomerogenesis-growth of the heart

A theory for the growth of the cardiac sarcomere and heart size is proposed. The stress-strain environment and O/sub 2/ consumption are computed for the myocardium using a mechanical model of the left ventricle. Cardiac afterload and preload are maintained constant while the dimensions of the ventricle are altered. It is observed that the computed ventricular dimensions result in normal heart function, based on examination of stroke volume, heart rate, and ventricular pressure. Global quantities were not necessarily optimal. It is theorized that sarcomerogenesis is stimulated by an increase in the fiber stress along the myofibril. >
Mechanisms involved in the development of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating and painful condition seen in patients undergoing treatment with common agents such as vincristine, paclitaxel, oxaliplatin and bortezomib. The mechanisms of this condition are diverse, and include an array of molecular and cellular contributions. Current research implicates genetic predispositions to this condition, which then may influence cellular responses to chemotherapy. Processes found to be influenced during CIPN include increased expression of inflammatory mediators, primarily cytokines, which can create cascading effects in neurons and glia. Changes in ion channels and neurotransmission, as well as changes in intracellular signaling and structures have been implicated in CIPN. This review explores these issues and suggests considerations for future research.
Foot pressure distribution during walking and shuffling

Abstract The insensate foot is vulnerable to tissue damage from areas of repetitive, excessive pressures. It has been previously stated that a shuffling gait with short steps would increase the period of foot flat and thus minimize any excessive local plantar pressures. This theory was quantitatively evaluated with a portable, in-shoe pressure data-acquisition system. Seven pressure sensors were located in the left and right insoles under the metatarsal heads, hallux, and posterior and anterior beels. Plantar pressure data were acquired from ten able-bodied subjects during four minutes of continuous shuffling and walking at a metronome-controlled cadence. Peak pressures, foot-to-floor contact durations, and pressure-time integrals under each sensor during shuffling and walking were analyzed and compared. Peak pressures were decreased at all sensor sites during a shuffling gait. The greatest decreases were noted at the first and second metatarsals (up to 57.8%) and hallux (up to 63.2%). A 41.6% decrease in overall summated peak plantar pressures during shuffling was found. Foot-to-floor contact durations during shuffling were increased from 22.0% to 76.9% at all 14 sensor locations. Pressure-time integrals during shuffling were increased at the heels (up to 78.9%) and decreased at the metatarsal heads and great toes (up to 26.7%). There was a 3.3% increase in the overall summated pressure-time integral during shuffling. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that a shuffling gait increases the period of foot flat and the area of weight bearing, resulting in lower peak plantar pressures on any one area.
“Words tickle me, thoughts caress me”: Gombrowicz on the Point of Interpretation

This article focuses on Witold Gombrowicz’s most challenging drama, The Marriage (1948).1 Based on the creation and manipulation of meaning it stages, I tease out the play’s implicit semiotics and relate this to the difficulty of interpreting the text as a whole. The Marriage, I argue, indicates an unorthodox direction for literary analysis, one overlooked in the exegetical search for deeper significances and the application of external theoretical models. An outlier in the crop of postmodern readings of Gombrowicz, my article develops considerably the most recent and still sparse work in this area. The fragmented body of what scholars have dubbed “Gombrowiczian Man” is the principal metaphor of man’s participation in form, the fragmentation of self, and the multiplicity of meaning. In my reading, Gombrowicz’s use of the metaphor in TheMarriage– and specifically of the finger to which it grants such prominence – challenges the traditional method of interpretation interested in extracting from signs (words, gestures) a stable meaning. Utilizing the dramatic topos of the dream, the frame of drunkenness, and the figure of the extended finger (touching, pointing, cuing, designating, and so on), the play presents its author’s anti-essentialist stand on meaning, language, and reality, placing the interpretation of form before that of content.
The 1993 AnyBoard rapid-prototyping environment

The programming of the AnyBoard is demonstrated by the design of a digital oscilloscope. The operations needed to enter, simulate, store, map, and debug a design are designed. The length of time needed to accomplish each of these operations is used to justify some proposed enhancements to the AnyBoard rapid-prototyping environment. >
FDA perspective on objective performance goals and clinical trial design for evaluating catheter-based treatment of critical limb ischemia.

The article by Conte et al. 1 on behalf of the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) in this issue of the Journal of Vascular Surgery provides guidelines for improving the consistency and interpretability of clinical trials intended to evaluate treatment options for patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). This article identifies a number of key challenges with conducting and comparing CLI trials, including the wide spectrum of clinical presentations that CLI encompasses, the use of disparate eligibility criteria and endpoint measurements, and logistical and economic considerations that can limit study initiation and completion. The authors propose definitions for a number of performance goals derived from historical surgical literature as a means of reducing the negative impact of these factors. The current editorial reviews aspects of this proposal from the perspective of the authors in terms of their understanding of the statutory obligations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate the marketing of cardiovascular devices based on valid scientific evidence.
Preferential conversion of cholesterol arachidonate to highly polar lipids.

Abstract Cholesterol-4-C 14 and cholesterol-4-C 14 esters (palmitate, oleate, linoleate, and arachidonate) were injected into rats. A considerable proportion (25–37%) of the liver lipid C 14 -activity was recovered as highly polar C 14 -lipids after the injection of cholesterol-4-C 14 arachidonate. Smaller amounts (10%) of polar C 14 -lipids were formed from cholesterol-4-C 14 linoleate; the remaining esters and free cholesterol produced negligible amounts (1–2%) of the polar C 14 -lipids. Only traces of polar C 14 -lipids were found in the serum. The polar lipids were found to contain 55–65% unchanged cholesterol; the cholesterol appeared to be bound as ester. Acetylation of the polar lipids gave less polar products suggesting the presence of hydroxyl groups. Thin-layer chromatography of the polar lipid fraction indicated the presence of at least 5 components. The results of the present study suggest the presence of a metabolic pathway in the metabolism of cholesterol not previously recognized.
Waveguide photonic devices made from thermally crosslinked second-order nonlinear optical polymers

A number of new thermally crosslinkable second-order nonlinear optical polymers have been developed and characterized. These polymers are designed for stable nonlinear optical activities since both ends of the rod-like chromophores are locked into a polymer matrix by covalent bonds. Sizable nonlinearities were measured in these polymers and the thermal stability of both main chain and side chain polymers were improved significantly by thermally induced crosslinking. These thermosetting polymers, with the chromophores either included in the main chain or as side chain pendants, have been used in a number of device applications. Waveguide structures can be defined in these polymers by reactive ion etching or ultraviolet bleaching. Thin film integrated optical devices, such as high frequency electro-optic modulators and birefringent directional couplers have been fabricated with reactive ion etching and photo bleaching methods. Waveguide fabrication techniques for multi-layer structures are discussed in detail.
Plastic behavior of magnetite and high strains obtained from magnetic fabrics in the Parry Sound shear zone, Ontario Grenville Province

Abstract Magnetic anisotropy and quantitative petrology of a transition from relatively undeformed metaanorthosite protolith to highly deformed ultramylonite in the Parry Sound shear zone provide information on magnetite as a kinematic indicator. Rock magnetic experiments show that anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) is controlled by magnetite in the mylonites and ultramylonites, and by paramagnetic minerals (hornblende, biotite, ilmenite) in the protolith. Geothermometry in the ultramylonite indicates a temperature of 630 ± 50 °C during deformation. A deformation mechanism map calculated from published experimental work for 630 °C indicates that magnetite in the Parry Sound shear zone deformed plastically rather than via rigid-body rotation. The AMS orientations accurately track a foliation trajectory in a portion of the shear zone, which allows the utilization of orientation-based strain models to determine shear strains. Shear strains (γ) of 1–9 were obtained, and an empirical correlation of strain with the ellipsoid shape resulted in the logarithmic relationships: Mmax = 0.15 ln(X), and Mmin = 0.13 ln(Z), where Mi = (ki/kmean) describes the principal AMS axes, or ( k max /k min ) = ( X Z )0.14 . These AMS-strain correlations were subsequently applied to mylonites and ultramylonites elsewhere in the shear zone, predicting shear strains as high as γ = 13. These observations also reveal that AMS fabrics do not saturate at high strains, as would be expected for rigid-body rotation, due to the plastic behavior of magnetite during deformation.
Peer educators in learning assistance programs: Best practices for new programs

Starting a new peer education program in learning assistance requires attention to critical program components. What steps need to be taken, and what resources are available?
Particle acceleration at a dynamic termination shock

[1] We investigate the effects of a large-scale interplanetary disturbance, such as a merged interaction region (MIR), on the properties of the heliospheric termination shock and particle population accelerated at the shock. The interaction process between transient structures and the shock is reflected in energetic particle spectra through variability in shock location, its compression ratio, and particle mean free paths that control their acceleration rate. It is shown that particle distributions observed at a specific moment of time exhibit features, such as spectral breaks, from earlier acceleration stages with lowest energy particles produced most recently and the more energetic anomalous cosmic rays (ACRs) accelerated at earlier times. We also show that a MIR collision can produce an extended period of anomalously low radial velocity in the heliosheath if density and velocity variations are correlated within a MIR and a following rarefaction.
Lived Experience of Interracial Dialogue on Race: Proclivity to Participate

The author conducted a qualitative inquiry of individuals' proclivity to participate in interracial dialogues. Lived experience of 20 participants in a race study circle yielded the overarching themes of education, self-reflection, advanced empathy, moral consciousness, universality, racial identity development, and social interest. Implications for research and recommendations for counselor education are discussed. La autora llevaron a cabo una investigacion cualitativa sobre la propension de individuos a participar en dialogos interraciales. La experiencia vivida de 20 participantes en un circulo de estudio sobre raza dio como resultado los temas omnimodos de educacion, autorrefexion, empatia avanzada, conciencia moral, universalidad, desarrollo de la identidad racial e interes social. Se discuten las implicaciones para la investigacion, asi como recomendaciones para la educacion de los consejeros.
New Distributional Records of Three Alien Species of Megachilidae (Hymenoptera) from Connecticut and Nearby States

New distributional records are presented for three non-native megachilid bees—Anthidium manicatum (Linnaeus), Anthidium oblongatum (Illiger), and Megachile sculpturalis Smith. These bees inhabited every county in Connecticut and several others in nearby northeastern states. My records of A. manicatum from Massachusetts and Rhode Island and of A. oblongatum from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont represent the first published state records. The multiple, largely exotic, floral hosts reported with the distributional records provide more evidence that A. manicatum and A. oblongatum are polylectic. The current distributional range and the potential impact of these adventive species are discussed briefly.
Quantitative Mitochondrial Phosphoproteomics Using iTRAQ on an LTQ-Orbitrap with High Energy Collision Dissociation

With the use of iTRAQ labeling and mass spectrometry on an LTQ-Orbitrap with HCD capability, we assessed relative changes in protein phosphorylation in the mitochondria upon physiological perturbation. As a reference reaction, we monitored the well-characterized regulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity via phosphorylation/dephosphorylation by pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase/pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase in response to dichloroacetate, de-energization and Ca2+. Relative quantification of phosphopeptides of PDH-E1alpha subunit from porcine heart revealed dephosphorylation at three serine sites (Ser231, Ser292 and Ser299). Dephosphorylation at Ser292 (i.e., the inhibitory site) with DCA correlated with an activation of PDH activity as previously reported, consistent with our de-energization data. Calcium also dephosphorylated (i.e., activated) PDH, thus, confirming calcium activation of PDP. With this approach, we successfully monitored other phosphorylation sites of mitochondrial proteins including adenine nucleotide translocase, malate dehydrogenase and mitochondrial creatine kinase. Among them, four proteins exhibited phosphorylation changes with these physiological stimuli: (1) BCKDH-E1alpha subunit increased phosphorylation at Ser337 with DCA and de-energization; (2) apoptosis-inducing factor phosphorylation was elevated at Ser345 with calcium; (3) ATP synthase F1 complex alpha subunit and (4) mitofilin dephosphorylated at Ser65 and Ser264 upon de-energization. This screening validated the iTRAQ/HCD technology as a method for functional quantitation of mitochondrial protein phosphorylation as well as providing insight into the regulation of mitochondria via phosphorylation.
Booster Disinfection for Response to Contamination in a Drinking Water Distribution System

Booster disinfection has been shown to be an effective means of maintaining more stable chlorine residuals in a water distribution system. It has been suggested that booster disinfection could also be a viable means of protecting a population against contamination. We simulated random contamination events in a model water distribution system with an optimized sensor network. A disinfection boost was simulated to begin the instant the contamination reached a sensor, and a range of decay coefficients were applied to the contaminant to simulate reaction with the disinfectant. Cumulative distribution curves of the volume of consumed contaminated water for various response levels were prepared to analyze how each response affected the vulnerability of the system. This analysis illustrated that a boost-response system could be effective in significantly reducing the volume of consumed contaminated water, but only in very specific circumstances. Most importantly, the booster must be located at a node with high r...
Angiotensin II Activates the Na+/HCO3− Symport through a Phosphoinositide-independent Mechanism in Cardiac Cells

Angiotensin II (AngII) is a hormone that alters contractility as well as myocyte growth in heart. Since many hormones that regulate cardiac contractility have also been found to modulate intracellular pH (pHi) the goal of this study was to determine if AngII altered pHi in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes. Changes in pHi were monitored in single cells using the fluorescent pH indicator carboxy-seminaphthorhodafluor-1. Application of 100 nM AngII resulted in a rapid, receptor-mediated alkalinization of 0.08 +/- 0.02 pH unit. The Na+/H+ exchanger was not involved since the response was HCO3(-)-dependent and amiloride-insensitive. Ammonia rebound experiments showed AngII increased the initial rate of recovery from an imposed acid load by 3.15-fold and showed that the hormone led to the selective activation of the Na+/HCO3- symport. In contrast, phorbol ester activation of protein kinase C led to the selective activation of Na+/H+ antiport in these cells. Pharmacological studies showed that the alkalinization was independent of the AngII receptor subtype 1 (AT1) phosphoinositide signaling path. In contrast, AngII activation of the symport was blocked by nanomolar AT2 receptor antagonist PD 123319. Superfusion of the myocytes with exogenous arachidonic acid (5 microM) mimicked the AngII-mediated alkalinization, further suggesting that the AT2 signaling pathway underlies the response. In summary, while most of the known actions of AngII in heart are mediated through AT1 receptors, activation of the Na+/HCO3- symport occurs through a distinct alternative path that is likely related to fatty acid production.
Black Theology and Birmingham: Revisiting a Conversation on Culture

A picture is worth a thousand words. If this is true of a still photograph, how much more of a moving image? A television broadcast? A streaming webcast? Interpreting the theological meaning of mass-produced visual imagery, then, can pose an analytical problem for theologians. This essay offers the theoretical insight of the Birmingham School of Cultural Studies as a helpful hermeneutic tool and methodological corrective for Black liberation theologians concerned with interpreting the intersections of theology and culture in general, and pop culture forms of religious expression such as televangelism in particular.
Isolation of less polar alkali-labile glycolipids of human brain by high-speed countercurrent chromatography

Abstract High-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC), a liquid-liquid partition system, was used for the final purification of less polar alkali-labile glycolipids (ALGLs) of human brain. It has been reported that vertebrate brain contains ALGLs consisting of ester cerebroside and monoglucosyldiacylglycerol. ALGLs have alkali-labile ester bonds and are shown to be less polar than cerebroside. First, ALGLs (ALGL-I, II, III and IV) were extracted and isolated by repeated silica gel column chromatography. Then, the mixture of ALGLs was subjected to the HSCCC in which a solvent system, hexane/ethanol/water (5:4:1, by volume), was used with the lower phase mobile. ALGL-IV and -III were clearly separated. ALGL-IV, which was resolved as a single band on high performance thin-layer chromatography, was further separated into several components (ALGL-IVa, b, c, d and e). This is the first application of HSCCC for the separation of human brain ALGLs. The availability of purified ALGLs provides an opportunity to...
Improved analytical formulas for x-ray and neutron reflection from surface films

A general and exact expression for x-ray and neutron reflectance and transmittance is given in terms of an integral of the real-space scattering-length-density profile fluctuation of the film, with respect to an arbitrary constant reference density level, over the wave function inside the film. Various special cases and approximations are then derived from this exact form by suitable approximations of the wave function. In particular, two practical approximate formulas are derived which are improvement over the corresponding distorted-wave Born approximations. One is for an arbitrary film deposited on a known substrate and the other for a free liquid surface. Numerical results are used to illustrate the accuracy of these formulas.
Alterations in mouse Peyer's patch lymphocyte phenotype after ethanol consumption

The objective of this study was to determine if chronic ethanol consumption could modify cell populations in the Peyer's patches (PP), which could favor pathogenic or opportunistic infections in mice, as seen in chronic alcohol addicts. Young C57BL/6 mice receiving the Lieber-DeCarli diet (36% of calories as ethanol) for 5 weeks presented a significant decrease in the total number of cells in the PP. Mature FVB mice receiving the Lieber-DeCarli diet for 19 weeks presented a highly significant decrease in the total number of cells and in the absolute number of T and B cells in the PP. Young C57BL/6 mice receiving the 100% NRC (30% ethanol) or the 60% NRC (30% ethanol) diets for 7 weeks presented alterations in the T and B cell phenotype comparable with the alterations observed in mice receiving the Lieber-DeCarli diet for 19 weeks. As less alcohol for a shorter time caused similar changes to those seen with a highly micronutrient enriched diet with more alcohol for a longer consumption period, micronutrient supplementation may overcome some immune damage found in animal models of alcoholism. Our data indicated that ethanol administration altered the mucosal immune system at the level of the PP, the site for antigen presentation and induction of a mucosal immune response.
Patient reported complications after prostate brachytherapy.

Purpose: Prostate brachytherapy has gained popularity due partly to the low rates of short-term complications shown in studies from highly select clinical practices. These series rely on medical records generated by the treating physician and are prone to underreport complications. We summarize the complication reports obtained directly from patients to establish a more realistic incidence of treatment related problems.Materials and Methods: In 1997, 160 consecutive patients treated with prostate brachytherapy at the University of Washington were studied. A questionnaire was designed to determine the rate of complications occurring within 1 year of the procedure. The questions were formulated for ease of use and conciseness, while accounting for easily recalled events associated with complications. A total of 147 (92%) patients completed the questionnaire.Results: There were 8 (5%) patients who required hospital admission for an average of 2 days (range 1 to 7) as a result of the procedure. A total of 56 ...
Effective transport coefficients in heterogeneous media

Abstract The paper emphasizes the commonality of a number of trnasport phenomena in heterogeneous media. The computation of an effective transport coefficient is then illustrated by Monte Carlo simulation of the diffusion of a gas molecule in a porous solid. Both physical and stochastic descriptions of molecular motion in a porous solid are presented, the latter being more rigorous and presenting a different insight into the concept of tortuosity. The Monte Carlo simulations yielded results that are consistent with classical predictions for effective transport coefficients. The consistency was maintained even at low volume fractions of the conducting phase which are beyond the limit of validity of the assumptions made in classical predictions.
Prolonged disease-free survival in bronchogenic carcinoma associated with HLA-Aw19 and HLA-B5. A two-year prospective study.

Seventy patients with squamous carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of the lung were HLA typed at the time of their diagnosis and initial therapy. No abnormal HLA antigen frequencies were found. However, the possession of HLA-Aw19 or HLA-B5 was significantly correlated with two year disease-free survival. Twelve of 21 patients (57%) with either Aw 19 or B5 were disease-free at two years. In contrast, only six of 48 patients (13%) not having either antigen were disease-free (p less than .001). One patient was lost to follow-up. It is possible that Aw 19 and/or B5 confer resistance to progression of bronchogenic carcinoma on their possessors.