cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
2406 The Role of Exercise in Decreasing Ongoing Pain in the Post-Excision Endometriosis Population

Study Objective Endometriosis is a painful disease affecting quality of life in nearly 176 million women worldwide. Even post excision of endometriosis patients may continue to experience pain across multiple systems from gynecological pain to abdominal and musculoskeletal pain. Current best practices leaves women with the disease few options beyond surgery, especially for those suffering with central sensitization and nerve up-regulation due to the long term adaptations of the disease. Pelvic Physical Therapy can be a critical component to mobilize the body post operatively. An exercise prescription designed by a physical therapist may help integrate and quiet long standing nerve patterns thereby returning the woman with endometriosis back to her best possible quality of life. Design 35 women with endometriosis following excision of endometriosis were given a specific exercise program to help with nerve and pain not reduced by surgery alone. The CHPPS questionnaire was administered at onset of physical therapy and then at the 3 and 9 month mark. Setting Outpatient Private Physical Therapy Practice. Patients or Participants People with Endometriosis, post excision of the disease by a specialist. Interventions Specific Exercise prescription was given to 35 patients with endometriosis. Measurements and Main Results Of the 35 women, 24 reported increases in quality of life, 6 reported changes in pain but no increase in quality of life and 5 did not complete the study either due to compliance. Conclusion Women with endometriosis experience on average an 8 year diagnostic delay from onset of symptoms to treatment. This delay may increase issues within the central nervous system, additionally the overwhelming pain may cause a patient to become deconditioned. Even after the disease is removed, pain may remain. An exercise prescription by a pelvic physical therapist may help increase quality of life.
Nature and Power

Designs (images with meaning) are everywhere, around us and inside us. Best known are the tree shaped flow structures of the river basins, human lungs, lightning, vascular tissue, urban traffic, snowflakes, river deltas, global air traffic, and vegetation. Other images go unnoticed, such as the round cross sections of ducts, blood vessels, pulmonary airways, galleries of earthworms, and the “pipes” carved by rainwater in wet soil and the hill slopes of the smallest rivulets of the river basin. Technologies employ round ducts, and for a good reason: they offer greater access to what flows, greater than in the absence of round cross sections. Less known are the rhythms of nature, the designs that represent organization in time, not in space. In most places, the flows that sweep areas and volumes flow in two distinct ways. In the river basin, the water first flows as seepage in the hill slopes (by diffusion), and later as streams in river channels. The first way is slow and short distance, while the second is fast and long distance. All flow systems in nature are driven by power, or work done per unit time. Work entails movement, deformation, morphing, and change. Humans “live” because they are driven by power derived from food and fuel and engines. All flowing architectures evolve with freedom in a discernible time direction, toward progressively greater access and more effective ways to flow over time, like the rivers and the animals.
Global Travel in the Late Middle Ages: The Eyewitness Account of Johann Schiltberger

Recent discussions have centred intensively on the question how to establish new cultural–historical perspectives that are no longer Eurocentric. Mediaevalists and Early Modernists have strongly en...
Timing of complementary feeding is associated with gut microbiota diversity and composition and short chain fatty acid concentrations over the first year of life.

Early introduction of complementary foods has been associated with various immune disorders, oxidative stress, and obesity in childhood. The gut microbiota and the short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) they produce are postulated to be on the causal pathway. The objective of this study was to determine if early complementary feeding (i.e. consumption of solids or non-water/formula liquids at or before 3 months) is prospectively associated with infant gut microbiota composition, diversity and SCFAs at 3 and 12 months of age in the Nurture birth cohort. Mother-infant dyads in the early complementary feeding group (n = 18) had similar baseline characteristics to those in the later feeding group (n = 49). We assessed differential abundance of microbial taxa (measured by 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the V4 region) by timing of complementary feeding using beta-binomial regression models (considering a two-sided FDR corrected p-value of < 0.05 as significant), and we fittted linear regression models to assess the association between early complementary feeding and SCFA concentrations (quantified using gas chromatography). After multivariable adjustment for breastfeeding, delivery method, birth weight, and gestational age, there were 13 differentially abundant microbial amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) by timing of introduction to complementary foods at 3 months and 20 ASVs at 12 months. Infants introduced to complementary foods early (vs. later) had higher concentrations of the SCFA butyric acid (mean difference = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.27, 1.04, p < 0.01) and total SCFAs (mean difference = 38.8, 95% CI: 7.83, 69.7) at 12 months. Bilophila wadsworthia and Lachnospiraceae Roseburia were associated with early (vs. later) complementary feeding and with higher butyric acid concentrations at 3 and 12 months, respectively. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that early (vs. later) introduction to complementary foods is associated with altered gut microbiota composition and butyric acid concentrations measured in stool until at least 1 year of age. Further research is needed to determine if these changes mediate future development of metabolic and immune conditions.
An Analysis and Comparison of Survival and Functional Outcomes in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients Treated with Concurrent Chemoradiation Therapy within City of Hope Cancer Center Sites.

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is a subset of head and neck cancers that can arise due to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. We designed a retrospective analysis to determine differences in outcomes of OPSCC patients treated at City of Hope (COH) Cancer Center’s main campus versus selected satellite sites with COH-associated faculty and facilities. Patients diagnosed with OPSCC and treated with concurrent chemoradiation therapy (n = 94) were identified and included in the study. Patients underwent treatment at the COH main campus site (n = 50) or satellite sites (n = 44). The majority of patients were Caucasian, male, and diagnosed with p16 positive stage IV locally advanced OPSCC by AJCC 7th edition. Most patients completed their prescribed cumulative radiation therapy dose and had a complete response to treatment. No significant difference in overall survival and progression-free survival was observed between the main campus and the satellite sites. Our study demonstrates successful treatment completion rates as well as comparable recurrence rates between the main campus and COH-associated satellite sites. A trend toward significant difference in feeding tube dependency at 6-months was observed. Differences in feeding tube placement and dependency rates could be addressed by the establishment of on-site supportive services in satellite sites.
Performance of an Abbreviated Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) among Three Ethnic Groups of Older Asian Americans.

Background and objectives The present study examined the measurement quality and performance of an abbreviated Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) in three ethnic groups (Chinese, Koreans, Vietnamese) of older Asian Americans, addressing both within- and cross-group validations. Research design and methods We selected 605 participants aged 50 or above (242 Chinese, 150 Koreans, 213 Vietnamese) from the 2015 Asian American Quality of Life (AAQoL) survey, conducted with self-identified Asian Americans aged 18 or above living in central Texas. We analyzed LSNS-6 data on measurement qualities (internal consistency and corrected item-total correlation), dimensionality (exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses), and correlations with other indicators. Results LSNS-6 showed very good internal consistency in each ethnic group, and the two-factor structure of family and friends were invariant across the groups. The items on friends demonstrated greater homogeneity than those on family and emerged as a first factor. Both subscale and total scores of LSNS-6 were associated in expected directions with the social and health indicators considered. Discussion and implications The findings confirm the measurement qualities of LSNS-6 within each group and provide support for measurement invariance across the groups. While the observed difference in family and friend networks warrants further investigation, LSNS-6 serves as a viable option for the assessment of social networks. When using LSNS-6 with older Asian Americans, it is highly recommended to use the family/friend subscales in consideration of cultural and immigration contexts.
Abstract 16273: Safety of Subcutaneous ICD Implantation in Patients With Prior Sternotomy

Introduction: Subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) implantation is a viable alternative to transvenous ICD implantation in patients without a pacing indication. The S-ICD lead is placed near the sternum. The s...
On the usefulness of lattice approximations for fractional Gaussian fields

Abstract Fractional Gaussian fields provide a rich class of spatial models and have a long history of applications in multiple branches of science. However, estimation and inference for fractional Gaussian fields present significant challenges. This book chapter investigates the use of the fractional Laplacian differencing on regular lattices to approximate to continuum fractional Gaussian fields. Emphasis is given on model based geostatistics and likelihood based computations. For a certain range of the fractional parameter, we demonstrate that there is considerable agreement between the continuum models and their lattice approximations. For that range, the parameter estimates and inferences about the continuum fractional Gaussian fields can be derived from the lattice approximations. Interestingly, regular lattice approximations facilitate fast matrix-free computations and enable anisotropic representations. We illustrate the usefulness of lattice approximations via simulation studies and by analyzing sea-surface temperature on the Indian Ocean.
The prevalence and identification of multidrug-resistant bacteria in adjacent ecological systems in the Hocking Hills region of Appalachia

Multidrug resistance in clinical settings is a major threat to human health, but very little is known regarding the prevalence of multidrug-resistant organisms in the natural environment. Studying antibiotic resistance in the environment is important for understanding the transfer of resistance between environmental microorganisms and those found in healthcare settings. In this study, soil samples from seven adjacent ecological zones were evaluated to determine if there were differences in the amount and types of antibiotic-resistant bacteria present. We hypothesized that we would find antibiotic-resistant bacteria in all ecological zones studied and that these bacteria would be unique to their specific niche. Several resistant organisms from each site were also tested for multidrug resistance and subsequently identified through DNA sequencing of the 16S gene. Antibiotic resistance was discovered in all sites at varying percentages. Some forms of bacteria were present at all sites, but there were differences in types of resistant bacteria found between sites. Six different genera of bacteria were identified, and multidrug resistance was found in all the isolates studied. Our findings indicate that multidrug resistance is prevalent in many different types of environments, including those that have never been directly used for agricultural or urban development.
Message framing strategies, food waste prevention, and diners’ repatronage intentions: the mediating role of corporate social responsibility

Building on prospect theory, construal level theory, and corporate social responsibility literature, this study investigated how messaging framing strategies impact buffet diners’ food waste and re...
Vicarious Actions and Social Teleology

Actions receive teleological descriptions and reason explanations. In some circumstances, these descriptions and explanations might appeal not just to the agent’s own purposes and reasons, but also to the purposes and reasons of others in her social surroundings. Some actions have a social teleology. I illustrate this phenomenon and I propose a concept of vicarious action to account for it. An agent acts vicariously when she acts in response to the demand of another agent who knew that her demand was likely to succeed. I argue that vicariousness grounds the social teleology of the resulting actions.
US Sick Leave In Global Context: US Eligibility Rules Widen Inequalities Despite Readily Available Solutions.

Research has demonstrated that paid sick leave reduces spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases and improves preventive care and access to treatment across a wide range of conditions. Howev...
Prediction of severe adverse events, modes of action and drug treatments for COVID-19's complications.

Following SARS-CoV-2 infection, some COVID-19 patients experience severe host driven adverse events. To treat these complications, their underlying etiology and drug treatments must be identified. Thus, a novel AI methodology MOATAI-VIR, which predicts disease-protein-pathway relationships and repurposed FDA-approved drugs to treat COVID-19’s clinical manifestations was developed. SARS-CoV-2 interacting human proteins and GWAS identified respiratory failure genes provide the input from which the mode-of-action (MOA) proteins/pathways of the resulting disease comorbidities are predicted. These comorbidities are then mapped to their clinical manifestations. To assess each manifestation’s molecular basis, their prioritized shared proteins were subject to global pathway analysis. Next, the molecular features associated with hallmark COVID-19 phenotypes, e.g. unusual neurological symptoms, cytokine storms, and blood clots were explored. In practice, 24/26 of the major clinical manifestations are successfully predicted. Three major uncharacterized manifestation categories including neoplasms are also found. The prevalence of neoplasms suggests that SARS-CoV-2 might be an oncovirus due to shared molecular mechanisms between oncogenesis and viral replication. Then, repurposed FDA-approved drugs that might treat COVID-19’s clinical manifestations are predicted by virtual ligand screening of the most frequent comorbid protein targets. These drugs might help treat both COVID-19’s severe adverse events and lesser ones such as loss of taste/smell.
Low-Profile and High-Efficiency 3 kW 400 V-48 V LLC Converter with a Matrix of Four Transformers and Inductors for 48V Power Architecture for Data Centers

Power consumption of data centers has increased rapidly over recent years. Of late, 48 V power architecture has attracted more interest in data centers as it offers more efficient architecture. This paper focuses on the implementation of the DC-DC stage of the power supply unit for narrow range 48 V datacenter bus architecture. The paper presents a nearly 99% efficient 400 V-48 V LLC with a very high power density and low profile fully integrated on PCB. The LLC topology is chosen as it can achieve soft-switching, allowing one to push the switching frequency and increase the power density. A matrix of four transformers is used to reduce the termination loss of the secondary synchronous rectifier and achieve better thermal management. The number of secondary turns is optimized to achieve the best trade-off between winding loss, core loss, and power density. A matrix of four resonant inductors is also designed to reduce the proximity effect between inductor windings and reduce inductor PCB winding loss. The converter integrates a matrix of four transformers and resonant inductors on a 6-layer PCB and single-core for easier manufacturability and lower cost. A prototype is tested for the proposed converter at 250 kHz with 98.8% efficiency and 600 W/in3 power density with an 11 mm profile.
Characterization of Zirconia and Titania Engine Exhaust Gas Sensors for Air/Fuel Feedback Control Systems

Two types of exhaust sensors have been studied from the point of view of applying them in feedback systems to control the air/fuel (A/F) operating point of automotive engines. The particular sensors studied were zirconia sensors and titania sensors. The paper includes results obtained from engine dynamometers and test vehicles/ but the major experimental results are from laboratory tests specifically designed to establish advantages or limitations of a specific sensor and its associated circuitry when used in engine A/F control systems. /GMRL/
Power and Restraint: Liberal Foreign Policy Theory and America's Rise: 1904-1912

Between the 1898 and 1941 American foreign policy was much more restrained than other great powers and rising powers of this era despite the fact that the USA had the largest economy and highest rate of economic growth among the great powers. Therein lies a puzzle of considerable historical and theoretical significance. Classical/neoclassical and offensive realists would expect a rising power to be especially expansionist in its foreign policy, and yet the U.S. never even matched the imperialism of tiny Belgium. Defensive realists expect states to expand to meet emerging threats, yet the U.S. retrenched in the face of great power aggression. Constructivists would expect an emerging power to conform to the norms of the system, in this case great power imperialism, but clearly the U.S. did not. Liberal theories focusing on economic interests fail to convincingly demonstrate that American foreign policy conforms to the interests of any specific economic group. The anomalous behavior of the United States from 1898 to 1941 suggests the need for greater attention to variables not included in the dominant approaches to international relations. To explain this anomaly, I utilize a liberal-institutional theory of foreign policy, which argues that a fragmented, decentralized, “liberal” state structure will tend to pursue a policy of relative strategic restraint. More specific to the case under study, separation of powers and a geographically decentralized electoral system restrained American expansion during the initial drive for imperialism and fostered rollback of the limited expansion that did occur. This essay shows that domestic institutions and liberal norms fostered strategic restraint in American foreign policy during the height of American imperialism from 1904 to 1912.
Connecting Legacy Code, Business Rules and Documentation

By using several reverse engineering tools and techniques, it is possible to extract business rules from legacy source code that are easy to understand by the non-IT experts. To make this information usable to business analysts, it is necessary to connect the artifacts extracted to existing documents. In this paper, we present how we use source code analysis and keyphrase extraction techniques to connect legacy code, business rules and documentation.
The Search for Perfection: Lake Forest and the Progressive Era

Lake Forest, Illinois in the Progressive Era was a highly exclusive safe haven for the elite of Chicago. Lake Forest, however, was more than a high priced suburb for successful businessmen and the children of entrepreneurs; it was a community where wealthy individuals would attempt to create the perfect environment. This paper will explore how the residents attempted to create a perfect community, from the European culture they chose to imitate to the architecture they chose for their estates, as well as the social world they created for themselves.
Examining the dominant, Emerging, And waning themes featured in select HRD publications: Is it time to redefine HRD?

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify how themes and contributions featured in the four scholarly journals sponsored by the largest human resource development (HRD) research association (the Academy of Human Resource Development, AHRD) reflect the changing identity of the HRD field. Design/methodology/approach – A frequency and content analysis of articles published during the period 2002-2011 was conducted to identify the dominant themes and research trend. Further, comments were made on the aims and scope and editorial discretion for each journal to understand how the journals influence the direction of scholarship in HRD. Findings – It was found that the boundaries of the field are constantly expanding with some of the older and mature themes losing momentum and new themes coming to the forefront of scholarly interest. The journals were found to play a critical role in setting the future direction for the field. Research limitations/implications – Future researchers can examine if the waxi...
Subtleties in the Light-Cone Representation

To produce an isomorphism between the light-cone and equal-time representations some additional formalism beyond that originally proposed for the light-cone representation may sometimes be required. The additional formalism usually involves zero modes and is most likely to affect delicate, high energy aspects of the solution such as condensates. In this talk I will review some of the information which has been obtained in the past few years on these issues with particular emphasis on the Schwinger model as an example.
A new method for quantitation of ion fluxes across in vivo human gastric mucosa: effect of aspirin, acetaminophen, ethanol, and hyperosmolar solutions.

A new, sensitive, and reproducible method for measuring hydrogen and sodium ion fluxes across the human gastric mucosa was developed and validated. By the use of a double-balloon tube that obstructed the pylorus, the stomach was converted into an in vivo Pavlov-type pouch. Duodenogastric reflux was prevented, and emptying of gastric contents into the duodenum was, on the average, 6%, thereby eliminating two important sources of error in quantitative gastric ion fluxes in humans. Transmucosal potential difference and endoscopic appearance of the gastric mucosa were also evaluated during each experiment. The mean percentage variation between duplicate tests for hydrogen ion was 3.2%, for sodium 17.5%, and the potential difference was 2.5%. Instillation of acetylsalicylic acid (36 mM, 1300 mg) in 200 ml of 100 mM hydrochloric acid for just 15 min resulted in a mean net hydrogen ion loss of 3.4 mmol/15 min, a net sodium ion gain of 1.9 mmol/15 min, a decrease in the potential difference of 23 mV, and marked gastric mucosal changes. Furthermore, exposure for 15 min to 20% ethanol (vol/vol, in 200 ml of 100 mM hydrochloric acid) and two separate hyperosmolar solutions (3600 mosmol/kg and 1800 mosmol/kg, both in 200 ml of 100 mM hydrochloric acid) also resulted in marked changes of net hydrogen ion loss (3.1, 4.8, 5.2 mmol/15 min, respectively), net sodium ion gain (2.4, 3.3, 2.4 mmol/15 min, respectively), decrease in potential difference (32, 30, 36 mV, respectively), and gross damage to the gastric mucosa. Each parameter was significantly different from the control test. Acetaminophen (86 mM, 2600 mg) or 10% ethanol (vol/vol) in 200 ml of 100 mM hydrochloric acid did not significantly alter ion fluxes or potential difference. Acetaminophen also did not significantly alter the endoscopic appearance of the gastric mucosa, whereas 10% ethanol had only a modest effect. In the control, aspirin, and acetaminophen experiments, maximal changes in the four parameters (i.e., hydrogen and sodium ion fluxes, potential difference, and endoscopic score) were significantly correlated with one another.
Bell's Palsy

A healthy 50-year-old man notices that his face is drooping on the right side. On examination, facial asymmetry is evident, and some saliva has accumulated on the right side of the patient's mouth. When the patient attempts to close his eyes, his right eye does not close, although it rolls upward, and he is unable to show his teeth or inflate his cheek on the right. How should the patient be evaluated? Does he need immediate treatment?
Home Program Intervention Effectiveness Evidence

Intense physical and occupational therapy intervention for children with disabilities has recently become very topical with growing neuroscience knowledge about the promise of promoting neuroplasti...
Full-range electrical characteristics of WS2 transistors

We fabricated transistors formed by few layers to bulk single crystal WS2 to quantify the factors governing charge transport. We established a capacitor network to analyze the full-range electrical characteristics of the channel, highlighting the role of quantum capacitance and interface trap density. We find that the transfer characteristics are mainly determined by the interplay between quantum and oxide capacitances. In the OFF-state, the interface trap density (<1012 cm–2) is a limiting factor for the subthreshold swing. Furthermore, the superior crystalline quality and the low interface trap density enabled the subthreshold swing to approach the theoretical limit on a back-gated device on SiO2/Si substrate.
Two contact regions between Stat1 and CBP/p300 in interferon γ signaling

Interferon γ (IFN-γ) induces rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of the latent cytoplasmic transcription factor, Stat1, which then forms homodimers, translocates to the nucleus and participates in IFN-γ-induced transcription. However, little is known of the interactions between Stat1 and the general transcription machinery during transcriptional activation. We show here that Stat1 can directly interact with the CREB-binding protein (CBP)/p300 family of transcriptional coactivators. Specifically, two interaction regions were identified: the amino-terminal region of Stat1 interacts with the CREB-binding domain of CBP/p300 and the carboxyl-terminal region of Stat1 interacts with the domain of CBP/p300 that binds adenovirus E1A protein. Transfection experiments suggest a role for these interactions in IFN-γ-induced transcription. Because CBP/p300-binding is required for the adenovirus E1A protein to regulate transcription of many genes during viral replication and cellular transformation, it is possible that the anti-viral effect of IFN-γ is based at least in part on direct competition by nuclear Stat1 with E1A for CBP/p300 binding.
Hydrogen bonding. Part 84. Infrared spectral evidence for three-center NHF bonds in a variety of tertiary amine-hydrogen fluoride compounds

Abstract N,N- dimethyl-1-adamantamine-hydrogen fluoride (2MAAHF) was previously shown by infrared spectral comparison to known compounds, ab initio molecular orbital treatment, and FT-NMR studies to contain a covalent three-center NHF bond which does not dissociate in aqueous solution. We have now examined a number of 1:1 hydrogen fluoride compounds of other tertiary amines, including monocyclic, bicyclic, aromatic, and trialkyl examples. All give the distinctive infrared absorptions of NHF bonds similar to those of 2MAAHF. Since these compounds were isolated from—and may well be stable in—aqueous solution, such species could play a role in the interaction of hydrogen fluoride or fluoride ion with biological material.
Unmyelinated visceral afferents exhibit frequency dependent action potential broadening while myelinated visceral afferents do not

Abstract Sensory information arising from visceral organ systems is encoded into action potential trains that propagate along afferent fibers to target nuclei in the central nervous system. These information streams range from tight patterns of action potentials that are well synchronized with the sensory transduction event to irregular, patternless discharge with no clear correlation to the sensory input. In general terms these afferent pathways can be divided into unmyelinated and myelinated fiber types. Our laboratory has a long standing interest in the functional differences between these two types of afferents in terms of the preprocessing of sensory information into action potential trains (synchrony, frequency, duration, etc.), the reflexogenic consequences of this sensory input to the central nervous system and the ionic channels that give rise to the electrophysiological properties of these unique cell types. The aim of this study was to determine whether there were any functional differences in the somatic action potential characteristics of unmyelinated and myelinated vagal afferents in response to different rates of sensory nerve stimulation. Our results showed that activity and frequency-dependent widening of the somatic action potential was quite prominent in unmyelinated but not myelinated vagal afferents. Spike broadening often leads to increased influx of Ca 2+ ions that has been associated with a diverse range of modulatory mechanisms both at the cell body and central synaptic terminations (e.g. increased neurotransmitter release.) We conclude that our observations are indicative of fundamentally different mechanisms for neural integration of sensory information arising from unmyelinated and myelinated vagal afferents.
Organizational change: initial results in a health care setting.

An applied study was conducted in a federal health care facility to assess change in organizational climate variables over a 7-yr. period. Using the Survey of Organizations-2000, preliminary results show improvements on five climate indicators from Time 1 to Time 2 of the survey. Potential explanations for the positive changes are provided.
P01.29. Pre-polarization conductance at Jing-Well acupoints on the hand is correlated with blood flow measured by laser doppler flowmetry

Results We found that during Chen style Tai Chi “silk-reeling” exercises, the cyclic down/up hand movement (2X/minute) caused cycles of increase/decrease in blood flow measured at PC8 acupoint and electrical conductance at 7 jing-well acupoints on the hand. Similar results were obtained when subjects performed dance movements with similar down/up cycles of the hand. We also observed that cyclic increase/decrease in blood flow induced by subjects with arm fully stretched upwards being rocked by an assistant down/up on an inversion exercise table was accompanied by cyclic increase/ decrease in conductance. During the above active or passive hand movement cycles, when blood flow to the hand was cut off by a pressure cuff on the arm, laser Doppler and conductance values both dropped to baseline, confirming lack of motion artifacts. Furthermore the cyclic changes in “flux” in all experiments coincided with “speed” values from laser Doppler flowmetry and with pre-polarization but not post-polarization conductance (galvanic skin response) measured at the acupoints.
The molecular weight of sodium chondroitin sulfate by light scattering.

Abstract 1. 1. The light-scattering technique has been successfully applied to determination of the molecular weight of sodium chondroitin sulfate (SCS). 2. 2. SCS purified from bovine hyaline cartilage and treated with proteolytic enzymes to remove trace impurities has a molecular weight of 50,000 and appears to be monodisperse or nearly so. 3. 3. Previous estimates of the molecular weight of SCS were too high, probably due to contamination of preparations by SCS-protein complexes with molecular weights of 106 and higher. The SCS in such complexes also has a molecular weight of 50,000. 4. 4. Extraction of cartilage by strong alkali leads to SCS of low molecular weight and a high degree of polydispersity. Such preparations may be fractionated as to molecular weight by alcohol precipitation. Intrinsic viscosity and weight-average molecular weight are correlated by the expression: [η] = 3.1 × 10−4M0.74. 5. 5. The possible physiological significance of the existence of SCS in different molecular weight states is discussed.
Modern Tendon Repair Techniques

Digital tendon repair is one of the most common issues in hand surgery and also one of the most vexing. A repair must withstand the forces imparted on it during early motion. Common clinical scenarios that challenge the hand surgeon are flexor tendon injuries in zone II, zone I, and extensor tendons. Repair of tendons that have flat morphology present a particular challenge to achieving a strong repair while maintaining the native tendon shape. This article evaluates modern tendon repair techniques. Early clinical experience using such methods have shown clinical success of improved motion and no known ruptures.
Calcium Metabolism in Hypertension and Allied Metabolic Disorders

Data suggest a critical role for Ca metabolism in the pathophysiology of hypertensive disease. Intracellularly, all hypertension displays elevated cytosolic free-Ca2+ and suppressed free-Mg2+ levels. Extracellularly, however, heterogeneous defects in Ca and Mg metabolism are observed. This apparent divergence may be explained by considering all hypertension as the expression, in varying degrees, of two underlying Ca-related mechanisms: one (salt sensitive, low renin, Ca(2+)-antagonist sensitive) dependent on inappropriate cellular Ca2+ uptake from the extracellular space and the other (salt insensitive, renin dependent, Ca(2+)-antagonist insensitive) dependent on increased cellular Ca2+ release from intracellular sites. Recent work highlights the role of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and the newly described parathyroid hypertensive factor in volume-dependent low-renin forms of hypertension. Altered cellular ion handling may also explain metabolic and clinical correlates of hypertension, e.g., peripheral insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, obesity, and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Thus, all subjects with NIDDM, whether hypertensive or not, display the same elevated cytosolic free-Ca2+ and suppressed free-Mg2+ levels observed in hypertension. Furthermore, adiposity, the level of blood pressure, and fasting and postglucose hyperinsulinemia are all closely and quantitatively related to intracellular free-Ca2+, free-Mg2+, and pH levels. This suggests a broader hypothesis, in which hypertension, obesity, insulin resistance, and NIDDM, each usually considered a distinct clinical entity, represent different clinical expressions of a common defect in cellular ion handling, hence explaining their frequent clinical coexistence in the general population.
Fabrication and characterization of planar and channel polymer wave guides. I. Plasma‐polymerized HMDS films

Plasma-polymerized hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDS) films have been prepared as both planar and channel wave guides. The optical attenuation results measured in both the planar and channel HMDS wave guides were found to be similar, thus demonstrating that the inherent solvent resistance and chemical inertness of the plasma polymerized films allows the use of common photoresist techniques, including application of the photoresist, photomasking, and subsequent etching. This may be contrasted with wave guides made from conventional polymers, where careful consideration must be given to photoresist/polymer compatibility, because the photoresist solvents may adversely affect the underlying polymer and lead to degradation of the material during processing. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Material flow control and scheduling in a disassembly environment

This paper presents a technique to control the material flow in a disassembly environment using the Flexible Kanban System (FKS). The implementation and effectiveness of the FKS is demonstrated using a case example.
Mechanisms of metalloregulation of an anion-translocating ATPase.

Thears (arsenical resistance) operon cloned from R-factor R773 has five genes that encode two repressor proteins, ArsR and ArsD, and three structural proteins, ArsA, ArsB, and ArsC. The ArsA and ArsB proteins form a membrane-bound pump that functions as an oxyanion-translocating ATPase. The substrates of the pump are the oxyanions arsenite or antimonite. The ArsC protein is an arsenate reductase that reduces arsenate to arsenite, which is subsequently pumped out of the cell. This review deals with the mechanism of transcriptional regulation by the ArsR repressor and allosteric regulation of the ArsA protein, the catalytic subunit of the pump. The chemical nature of the inducer plays an important role in regulation. In solution arsenite or antimonite exist as oxyanions and reacts with the cysteines in proteins. In both transcriptional regulation by the ArsR repressor and allosteric regulation of the ArsA ATPase, the ability of As(III) and Sb(III) to interact with the cysteines of the proteins, involves their action as effector.
Political economic reorganization among non-state societies: A case study using Middle Holocene mortuary data from the Cis-Baikal, Russia

Abstract The extraordinary record of prehistoric funeral activities in Russia’s Cis-Baikal region provides an opportunity to study changes in political strategies that boreal forest hunter–gatherers employed at these events in the Middle Holocene. I use published data on burial treatments (quantities of grave goods, presence of exotic materials, burial layouts) from 10 Late Neolithic (henceforth referred to as “LN,” 4000–3000 BC) and 11 Early Bronze Age (“EBA,” 3000–2000 BC) cemeteries to explore important and previously undetected shifts in the ways that funerals during these periods articulated with political life. LN groups used funerals to emphasize affiliation with corporate institutions, while EBA funeral participants employed political strategies focused on displaying wealth. Current evidence indicates that groups on the western peripheries of the Cis-Baikal started employing semi-nomadic pastoral subsistence practices at the time of the LN-EBA transition, and I suggest that these groups presented new opportunities for Cis-Baikal inhabitants. Interactions with mobile, food-producing groups may have indirectly stimulated indigenous populations to redefine funeral gatherings as venues appropriate for cultivating long-distance economic and political support through competitive displays of wealth.
Counting bodies: The dismal science of authorized terror

Professor Horowitz argues that it is important for political sociology to try to understand and analyse genocide as a distinct social phenomenon. For this purpose it must be clearly distinguished from other forms of human destruction, such as natural disasters, random killing, warfare and symbolic or cultural assaults. The collective nature of genocide sets it apart from other social evils, as it contradicts traditional Western approaches to law and morals which emphasize individual responsibility for actions.
Ratio of the shear and Young's Moduli for polycrystalline metallic elements

Abstract By considering an aggregate of face-centered-cubic crystals and a general two-body central-force interatomic potential, it is shown that the shear modulus and Young's modulus of a crystalline aggregate are proportional. Their calculated ratio is 0.396, close to the experimental value of 0.375.
Electrocardiographic interpretation by computer.

Abstract A program for the automatic interpretation of electrocardiograms using a general purpose digital computer has been under development at the Latter-day Saints Hospital. The analysis is performed using the orthogonal XYZ Franck lead system. This system was chosen in order to reduce the amount of data transmitted and analyzed by the computer. Interpretive statements are made concerning only the QRS and ST-T waves of the electrocardiogram at this time. Development is under way for interpretation of the P wave as well as arrhythmia diagnosis.
The use of in situ proteolysis in the crystallization of murine CstF-77.

The cleavage-stimulation factor (CstF) is required for the cleavage of the 3′-end of messenger RNA precursors in eukaryotes. During structure determination of the 77 kDa subunit of the murine CstF complex (CstF-77), it was serendipitously discovered that a solution infected by a fungus was crucial for the crystallization of this protein. CstF-77 was partially proteolyzed during crystallization; this was very likely to have been catalyzed by a protease secreted by the fungus. It was found that the fungal protease can be replaced by subtilisin and this in situ proteolysis protocol produced crystals of sufficient size for structural studies. After an extensive search, it was found that 55% glucose can be used as a cryoprotectant while maintaining the diffraction quality of the crystals; most other commonly used cryoprotectants were detrimental to the diffraction quality.
Dacron mesh wrapping to support the aneurysmally dilated or friable ascending aorta

A technique of supporting the aneurysmally dilated or friable ascending aorta using a fine Dacron mesh is described. In patients with aneurysmal dilatation of the ascending aorta, longitudinal resection of a portion of the aneurysm combined with wrapping can avoid replacement with a synthetic graft. The Dacron mesh, because of its transparency and ability to stretch, allows a more accurate fit over the aorta, avoids hematoma formation, provides visualization of suture lines after wrapping, and facilitates proximal vein graft anastomoses for combined aortocoronary bypass.
The Impact of a College Course in Human Sexuality Upon Sexual Attitudes and Behavior.

Students taking this course showed a shift to more liberal attitudes, but they reported no change in sex behavior interactions.
Astrocytic Hamartoma of the Retina Not Associated with Tuberous Sclerosis

A 6-year-old boy had a peripapillary lesion diagnosed as retinal astrocytic hamartoma, which was not associated with tuberous sclerosis, neurofibromatosis, or intraocular extension of a glioma. The patient was observed for nine years, during which time the lesion grew significantly. Because of this growth and the evidence of proximal optic nerve involvement on computed tomography, radiation therapy was administered with a resultant marked reduction in visual acuity. The eye was subsequently enucleated. The enucleated eye was studied by both light and transmission electron microscopy. The specimen had a retinal astrocytic hamartoma with sparse vascularization and only superficial optic nerve involvement. Additionally, it revealed optic nerve drusen in varying stages of development, significant accumulations of subretinal macrophages, and an almost total loss of retinal outer segments with the preservation of the retinal pigment epithelium.
Palliative Care Communication Curriculum: What Can Students Learn From an Unfolding Case?:

Limited attention to palliative care communication training is offered to medical students. In this work, we pursued unfolding case responses and what they indicated about student tendencies to use palliative care communication as well as what medical students can learn from their own reflective practice about palliative care. Findings showed an overwhelming trend for students to avoid palliative care communication or inclusion of topics including advance directives, place of care, family support, and dying. Instead, students relied heavily on the SPIKES protocol, communication that was strategically vague and ambiguous, and discussions that centered on specialty care and referral. In reflecting on their own case study responses, students noted an absence of direct communication about prognosis, no coordination of care, late hospice entry, and patient pain resulting from communication inefficacies. Future research should focus on the development of formal and adaptive curriculum structures to address these communication needs.
Factorial analyses of variance with appended control groups

It is frequently the case that factorial experiments require appended control conditions for meaningful interpretation of results. Procedures are presented which produce a single summary table based on all of the data in the complete design. The sources of variation in this table constitute an exhaustive, mutually exclusive enumeration of all sources in the entire experiment. Several examples of specific designs are presented. Alternative computational procedures are also offered.
See you Online: Gender Issues in College Student Use of Instant Messaging

Instant Messaging (IM) is becoming a mainstay for online one-to-one communication. Although IM is popularly described as a written version of informal speech, little empirical investigation of the ...
Probable observation of short-range-order effects in the specific heat of AgAu below 30 K

By quenching an equiatomic AgAu alloy from 400\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C and from 1000\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C reproducible differences in specific heat have been obtained. The form of the difference is similar to that found between disordered and long-range ordered CuAu, but much smaller. The maximum difference (\ensuremath{\sim}0.8%) is seen at about 3 K. Other heat treatments produce intermediate results. It is postulated that the differences correspond to short-range ordering.
Computed tomography finding in Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome associated with endometriosis: a case report.

Abstract Computed tomography finding in a 17-year-old girl with association of the Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome and endometriosis is presented.
Live High - Train Low Altitude Training for Endurance Performance

“Live High - Train Low” Altitude Training for Endurance Performance Coaches and athletes alike are constantly striving for training strategies to provide an advantage over their competitors. Altitude training is an integral part of many endurance athlete’s preparation for competition and a common approach to this conditioning strategy is ‘live high train low’ (LHTL) where as the description implies athletes live at altitude to stimulate physiological adaptation but train at sea level so exercise intensity can be maintained and de-conditioning avoided.
H/D isotope effect on outer sphere electron exchange

Abstract Recently calculated results for the geometry and vibration frequencies in aquo complexes of Na + , Mg 2+ , and Al 3+ are applied to estimate the change in rate of the Fe 2+,3+ electron exchange when the solvent is changed from H 2 O to D 2 O. It is concluded that the known effects in an outer sphere mechanism are large enough to account for the fact that the measured rate constant is two-fold larger in H 2 O than in D 2 O.
Reduction of 1,3-diphenyl-1-triazene by rat hepatic microsomes, by cecal microflora, and in rats generates the phenyl radical metabolite: An ESR spin-trapping investigation

An ESR spin-trapping technique was used to determine whether free radical metabolites are formed as a result of the reduction of 1,3-diphenyl-1-triazene (DPT) in vivo and in vitro by components of the cytochrome P450 (P450) mixed-function oxidase system in microsomes or by gut microflora in anaerobic cecal incubations. The ESR spectrum of the DMPO−phenyl radical adduct was detected in a microsomal incubation containing DPT, DMPO, and NADPH with the following hyperfine coupling constants: aN = 15.95 G and = 24.37 G. The amplitude of the spectrum from the phenyl radical adduct generated in microsomal incubations of DPT with DMPO and NADPH was not attenuated by the P450 inhibitor 1-aminobenzotriazole (ABT) or by carbon monoxide, indicating that P450 is not significantly involved in phenyl radical formation. The formation of a DMPO−phenyl radical adduct was also catalyzed by recombinant human cytochrome P450 reductase. Addition of anti-rat P450 reductase antibody led to an attenuation of the signal in incuba...