cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is Time Since Hip Fracture Influencing the Discrimination Between Fractured and Nonfractured Subjects as Assessed at the Calcaneum by Three Technologically Different Quantitative Ultrasound Devices

Because quantitative ultrasound (QUS) instruments from different manufacturers have significant technical differences, it is difficult to assess whether all of them can discriminate similarly between osteoporotic fractures and age-matched controls. Thus, to avoid any bias, reliable comparative assessment of the QUS devices should be carried out on the same population. Few studies have fulfilled this condition. Another source of variability in cross-sectional studies in which fractured and nonfractured subjects are compared is the time since osteoporotic fracture. Our study evaluated the ability of three calcaneal QUS devices to discriminate patients with osteoporotic hip fracture from control subjects, using the same population. In addition, a subset of patients was re-measured about 9 months after the hip replacement surgery to check how the time since fracture affects the discriminatory ability of the different QUS devices. Fifty postmenopausal hip-fractured patients and 46 postmenopausal age-matched controls were included in this study and measured on three QUS devices, as well as 50 young healthy controls to calculate the T-score. Odds ratio results showed that a decrease in UBIS trade mark BUA of 1 SD was associated with a significant increase in fracture risk (odds ratio adjusted = 2.30) comparable with Sahara broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) (OR adj. = 2.30), and Achilles BUA (OR adj. = 3.5). However, given the large overlap between the 95% intervals of each OR and for the areas under ROC curves, no significant difference was found between them. In the subset of 15 hip-fractured subjects, no significant differences were found between ultrasound parameters of the first visit and 9 months after except for the heel width (soft tissue variation). Odds ratio and areas under the curve (AUC) tend to increase from visit 1 to 2 for the BUA and decrease substantially for the SOS for all but the Lunar Achilles+. Nonsignificant correlation was found between the absolute difference of the ultrasound parameters measured at the two visits and the time since fracture, except for the Sahara SOS (r = 0.45; P < 0.04). In conclusion, no significant differences between QUS technologies were observed in their positive and significant ability to discriminate hip-fractured patient from controls. However, this statement is shadowed when taking into account the time since fracture which seems to negatively influence results obtained on dry versus wet QUS systems. As a result, it is advisable that such parameters would be taken into account when designing a study aimed to demonstrate the discriminatory ability of heel ultrasound between normal and hip-fractured patients.
A fixed combination of perindopril and indapamide reduces the risk of vascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

A fixed combination of perindopril and indapamide reduces the risk of vascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Radiographic Analysis of the Canale View for Displaced Talar Neck Fractures

Fractures of the talar neck comprise almost 50% of fractures of the talus and may result in significant long-term morbidity. It is of paramount importance to ensure anatomic reduction of the fracture not only for fracture healing but also for minimizing future posttraumatic arthritic sequelae. In addition to conventional radiographs and computed tomography scans, the Canale view has proven to be beneficial, especially when evaluating for varus displacement. This study investigated whether the original method of performing the Canale view could be modified for improved evaluation for varus displacement. Simulated talar neck fractures were created in 6 cadaveric specimens. These were placed into varying amounts of varus displacement; the Canale view was performed with progressive degrees of eversion, from 0° to 25°, resulting in 108 total views. Blinded evaluation was performed, and a ranking system was used to determine the most beneficial degree(s) of eversion for evaluating varus malalignment. Multiple statistical analyses were performed. A significant difference was seen between the high and low range of values of eversion. A significantly lower ranking was achieved with 10° of eversion. As opposed to a single view taken at 15° of eversion, a range of angles may be most beneficial in evaluating varus displacement in talar neck fractures.
Anchoring Fibrils in the Attachment of Epithelium to Connective Tissue in Oral Mucous Membranes

Electron microscopic studies of human buccal and alveolar mucosa, human gingival mucosa, and mouse labial mucosa revealed an interlocking pattern of anchoring fibrils and collagen fibrils. Anchoring fibrils were more numerous and better developed in nonkeratinized mucosa than in the keratinized oral mucous membranes.
The Americans With Disabilities Act as Engine of Social Change: Models of Disability and the Potential of a Civil Rights Approach

The Americans With Disabilities Act, based on the civil rights/minority group and independent living models of disability, may enhance access to health care, personal assistance, employment, the electoral process, and smoke-free environments for people with disabilities. However, this essential law cannot resolve these key issues. Supplemental theoretical and policy approaches will be necessary to promote fundamental change.
Types, Frequency, and Effectiveness of Responses to Unwanted Pursuit and Stalking

This study investigated the types, frequency, and effectiveness of responses to unwanted pursuit (UP) and stalking after relationship termination. Participants included female and male college students who were either pursued by a former partner or who pursued an ex-partner. Factor analyses of targets’ responses to pursuit yielded four factors, similar to Cupach and Spitzberg’s (2004) proposed response types. Targets reported engaging in Avoidance/ Minimization and Support-Seeking responses more often than Approach or Assertion/Aggression, and Approach more often than Assertion/Aggression; pursuers reported that targets engaged in Common Responses more often than Assertion/Aggression responses. Generally, targets rated more assertive but less frequently used responses such as “took legal action” or “made geographic change” as most effective, whereas pursuers rated threats and assertive or aggressive verbal confrontations as most effective. Analysis of qualitative data indicate that a combination of target...
Increased prevalence of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate in chronic hepatitis C patients.

To investigate the prevalence and severity of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Medical record review of 831 consecutive CHC patients seen in our clinic between July 2000 and August 2003; eGFR was estimated using the abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (aMDRD) equation. The stage of kidney disease was determined based on eGFR expressed in milliliters per minute per 1.73 m2: stage 1 (signs of kidney damage but normal or elevated (eGFR ≥ 90), stage 2 (eGFR 60–89), stage 3 (30–59), stage 4 (eGFR 15–29), stage 5 (eGFR 1.4 mg/dl). Of the 32 patients with stage 3 or 4 disease, 20 (62.5%) had a normal serum creatinine concentration. Of 349 patients without diseases known to cause renal insufficiency, 38% had stage 2–4 renal disease. In a subset of these patients, 95/522 (18%) the measured creatinine clearance showed good correlation with their aMDRD (R = 0.47, (p < 0.0001). In CHC patients, a normal serum creatinine concentration does not assure normal kidney function. Estimation of eGFR with the aMDRD equation is a more accurate method of identifying patients with chronic kidney disease and reduced eGFR. Therefore, CHC patients should be screened more rigorously for chronic kidney disease because of the high prevalence of reduced eGFR. Lastly, in all CHC patients, the aMDRD eGFR should be used in each encounter with these patients when assessing their renal function irrespective of their serum creatinine.
Ultra-low platinum loading high-performance PEMFCs using buckypaper-supported electrodes

Abstract The microstructure of the catalyst layer in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) greatly influences catalyst (Pt) utilization and cell performance. We demonstrated a functionally graded catalyst layer based on a double-layered carbon nanotube/nanofiber film- (buckypaper) supported Pt composite catalyst to approach an idealized microstructure. The gradient distribution of Pt, electrolyte and porosity along the thickness effectively depresses the transport resistance of proton and gas. A rated power of 0.88 W/cm 2 at 0.65 V was achieved at 80 °C with a low Pt loading of 0.11 mg/cm 2 resulting in a relatively high Pt utilization of 0.18g Pt /kW. The accelerated degradation test of catalyst support showed a good durability of buckypaper support because of the high graphitization degree of carbon nanofibers.
Infrared spectroscopic study of thermotropic phase behavior of newly developed synthetic biopolymers.

Abstract The thermotropic phase behavior of a suite of newly developed self-forming synthetic biopolymers has been investigated by variable-temperature Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) absorption spectroscopy. The temperature-induced infrared spectra of these artificial biopolymers (lipids) composed of 1,2-dimyristoyl-rac-glycerol-3-dodecaethylene glycol (GDM-12), 1,2-dioleoyl-rac-glycerol-3-dodecaethylene glycol (GDO-12) and 1,2-distearoyl-rac-glycerol-3-triicosaethylene glycol (GDS-23) in the spectral range of 4000–500 cm−1 have been acquired by using a thin layered FT-IR spectrometer in conjunction with a custom built temperature-controlled demountable liquid cell having a pathlength of ∼15 μm. The lipids under consideration have long hydrophobic acyl chains and contain various units of hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) headgroups. In contrast to conventional phospholipids, this new kind of lipids forms liposomes or nanovesicles spontaneously upon hydration, without requiring external activation energy. We have found that the thermal stability of the PEGylated lipids differs greatly depending upon the acyl chain-lengths as well as the nature of the associated bonds and the number of PEG headgroup units. In particular, GDM-12 (saturated 14 hydrocarbon chains with 12 units of PEG headgroup) exhibits one sharp order–disorder phase transition over a temperature range increasing from 3 °C to 5 °C. Similarly, GDS-23 (saturated 18 hydrocarbon chains with 23 units of PEG headgroup) displays comparatively broad order–disorder phase transition profiles between temperature 17 °C and 22 °C. In contrast, GDO-12 (monounsaturated 18 hydrocarbon chains with 12 units of PEG headgroup) does not reveal any order–disorder transition phenomena demonstrating a highly disordered behavior for the entire temperature range. To confirm these observations, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was applied to the samples and revealed good agreement with the infrared spectroscopy results. Finally, the investigation of thermal properties of lipids is extremely critical for numerous purposes and the result obtained in this work may find application in various studies including the development of PEGylated lipid based novel drug and substances delivery vehicles.
Hope and mood changes throughout the primary brain tumor illness trajectory

The ambiguity of defining hope impacts the level of readiness faced by healthcare professionals in treating patients with glioma, a disease with an unpredictable outcome. While the initial focus of care is on the physiological effects of the disease, a sense of hope has been demonstrated to positively impact coping during illness in other cancer patients. This study describes the report of hope and the relationship between hope and mood in adult brain tumor patients at various points in the illness trajectory. This was a cross-sectional study with data collection including the use of the Herth Hope Index (HHI) within 3 subscales (temporality, readiness, interconnectedness), the Profile of Mood States-Short Form (POMS-SF) and clinical information. Descriptive statistics were used to report sample characteristics. Spearman's rho compared POMS-SF and HHI scores. 82 patients participated in the study ranging in age from 22 to 78 years (mean 44.78). Patients were primarily male (57.3%), married (76.8%) and employed (51.2%). The majority of patients had a high grade glioma (77%), with nearly half having a recurrence and over 20% on active treatment at the time of this study. The overall HHI total score for the sample was 41.32(range 13-48). Patients with recurrence had a low HHI interconnectedness (median = 14.00) score and higher total mood disturbance (median = 14.00) compared with patients without recurrence (HHI median = 15.00, Mood median = .00, p < .05). All negative mood states on the POMS-SF were negatively correlated with HHI subscales. Overall, patients reporting more hope also reported less overall mood disturbance (tension, anger, fatigue, depression, confusion). Patients with tumor recurrence reported lower hope and higher mood disturbance then those who were newly diagnosed or without recurrence. Targeting interventions specifically tailored to individual needs in improvement of quality of life throughout the disease course may include measures to address hope to facilitate positive coping strategies.
Anomopsocus and Antipsocus: Synonymy, Species, and Taxonomic Position (Psocoptera: Lachesillidae)

Antipsocus radiolosus Roesler is a species of Anomopsocus , and the genus Antipsocus falls into synonymy with Anomopsocus (NEW SYNONYM). Augmented diagnoses are presented of Anomopsoeus and its 2 species A. amabilis (Walsh) and A. radiolosus (Roesler). The latter species is newly recorded from Guatemala, Mexico, and Trinidad (W. I.). Anomopsocus is closely related to Graphocaecilius , and the 2 genera are assigned to Lachesillidae. Ectopsocidae appears to be the most closely related family, and its separation from Peripsocidae is upheld.
Dimensions of Majority and Minority Groups

Several definitions of majority and minority groups can be found in the social psychological literature. They involve numeric size, power/status, and counternormative position, but size is most com...
Oxygen pairing on the highly non-stoichiometric (110) surface of TiO 2

Abstract Experimental investigations have shown that bridging oxygen ( O b r ) atoms on the highly non-stoichiometric TiO 2 (110) surface cluster together into nearest-neighbor pairs. Theoretically, this behavior has been observed in simulations of an O b r vacancy interaction model for TiO 2 (110) in the high-vacancy-concentration limit. However, an interaction model that focuses on oxygen vacancies is ill-equipped to explain the behavior of interacting oxygen adatoms on a nearly fully reduced (i.e., O b r -depleted) surface. Therefore, to better understand this behavior, we have constructed an adatom–adatom lattice–gas model for oxygen on the fully reduced TiO 2 (110) surface and performed an extensive set of Monte Carlo simulations on this model.
MRI-Guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy in Neuro-Oncology: A Review of Its Current Clinical Applications

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is a minimally invasive treatment modality with recent increasing use to ablate brain tumors. When originally introduced in the late 1980s, the inability to precisely monitor and control the thermal ablation limited the adoption of LITT in neuro-oncology. Popularized as a means of destroying malignant hepatic and renal metastatic lesions percutaneously, its selective thermal tumor destruction and preservation of adjacent normal tissues have since been optimized for use in neuro-oncology. The progress made in real-time thermal imaging with MRI, laser probe design, and computer algorithms predictive of tissue kill has led to the resurgence of interest in LITT as a means to ablate brain tumors. Current LITT systems offer a surgical option for some inoperable brain tumors. We discuss the origins, principles, current indications, and future directions of MRI-guided LITT in neuro-oncology.
Iron metabolism: bedside to bench and back.

One of the prerogatives of the outgoing Southern Society for Clinical Investigation President is to choose the topic and speakers for the Presidential Symposium at the annual meeting. The choice of topic for the 2013 Symposium, “Iron Metabolism: Bedside to Bench and Back,” has its genesis in a rejection letter I received some 15 years ago. Of course, rejection letters are an occupational hazard of the academic career and I have received my fair share, but this is 1 of only 3 that I remember in detail. The letter indicated that the reviewers were generally positive about the quality of the manuscript, but the editor had chosen not to accept it for publication because papers on iron were not of interest to internal medicine physicians. While I think the editor was shortsighted (at the time, I would have expressed it more colorfully), it is only fair to say that his assessment of his reading audience’s interest may have been correct. Unless you were actually in the iron research field, it was not apparent that much was occurring. The last “big thing” in iron, the description of the regulation of ferritin and transferrin expression by iron response elements, was a decade old and largely of interest to erythropoiesis investigators. 1 The serum-soluble transferrin receptor had been identified around the same time, but its niche in the diagnosis of iron deficiency was not established. 2 The discovery of the HFE gene in hereditary hemochromatosis had only just occurred and its clinical utility was not yet clear. 3 When I lectured on the laboratory evaluation of iron status in the late 1990s, at least 90% of my material had been present in the lecture on that topic I attended as a second year medical student in 1980. All that changed around 2000, with the simultaneous discovery of the antimicrobial peptide hepcidin by 2 separate groups, and the demonstration of its role in the regulation of iron metabolism. 4,5 The study of hepcidin has revolutionized the understanding of the regulation of iron metabolism in health and in disease, 6 and aspects of this enhanced understanding and its implications for clinical medicine are explored in the 2 papers that follow.
Influence of physiological and subjective arousal on food intake in humans

Abstract Objectives This study explored the influence of physiologic and subjective arousal on ambient factors of the food environment, such as the eating location, the presence of other people, sound, and time of day and on food intake. It was hypothesized that the influence of environmental stimuli on food intake would be mediated by arousal. Methods College students were asked to wear heart rate monitors and to record their food intake in a 7-d diet diary. Subjective arousal (elation and excitement) and aspects of the eating environment were recorded for each meal occasion. Results Results showed that subjective arousal seems to be related to food intake ( P P P P Conclusion It can be concluded that, for normal individuals in their everyday environment, ambient influences on food intake are not mediated by changes in arousal. However, the environment and the emotional state of the individual appear to play a role in the individual’s eating behavior.
A Paradigm for Masking (Camouflaging) Information

Summary This is an expository paper. Here we propose a decision-theoretic framework for addressing aspects of the confidentiality of information problems in publicly released data. Our basic premise is that the problem needs to be conceptualized by looking at the actions of three agents: a data collector, a legitimate data user, and an intruder. Here we aim to prescribe the actions of the first agent who desires to provide useful information to the second agent, but must protect against possible misuse by the third. The first agent is under the constraint that the released data has to be public to all; this in some societies may not be the case. A novel aspect of our paper is that all utilities?fundamental to decision making?are in terms of Shannon's information entropy. Thus what gets released is a distribution whose entropy maximizes the expected utility of the first agent. This means that the distribution that gets released will be different from that which generates the collected data. The discrepancy between the two distributions can be assessed via the Kullback-Leibler cross-entropy function. Our proposed strategy therefore boils down to the notion that it is the information content of the data, not the actual data, that gets masked. Current practice of "statistical disclosure limitation" masks the observed data via transformations or cell suppression. These transformations are guided by balancing what are known as "disclosure risks" and "data utility". The entropy indexed utility functions we propose are isomorphic to the above two entities. Thus our approach provides a formal link to that which is currently practiced in statistical disclosure limitation.
Discourses of Demonization in Africa and Beyond

Recent theoretical perspectives on religion and violence and on cultural difference are grounded within a discussion of the discourses of demonism and satanism which have become increasingly preval...
Evaluation of lifestyle interventions to treat elevated cardiometabolic risk in primary care (E-LITE): a randomized controlled trial

Efficacy research has shown that intensive individual lifestyle intervention lowers the risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and the metabolic syndrome. Translational research is needed to test real-world models of lifestyle interventions in primary care settings. E-LITE is a three-arm randomized controlled clinical trial aimed at testing the feasibility and potential effectiveness of two lifestyle interventions: information technology-assisted self-management, either alone or in combination with care management by a dietitian and exercise counselor, in comparison to usual care. Overweight or obese adults with pre-diabetes and/or metabolic syndrome (n = 240) recruited from a community-based primary care clinic are randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions. Treatment will last 15 months and involves a three-month intensive treatment phase followed by a 12-month maintenance phase. Follow-up assessment occurs at three, six, and 15 months. The primary outcome is change in body mass index. The target sample size will provide 80% power for detecting a net difference of half a standard deviation in body mass index at 15 months between either of the self-management or care management interventions and usual care at a two-sided α level of 0.05, assuming up to a 20% rate of loss to 15-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes include glycemic control, additional cardiovascular risk factors, and health-related quality of life. Potential mediators (e.g., treatment adherence, caloric intake, physical activity level) and moderators (e.g., age, gender, race/ethnicity, baseline mental status) of the intervention's effect on weight change also will be examined. This study will provide objective evidence on the extent of reductions in body mass index and related cardiometabolic risk factors from two lifestyle intervention programs of varying intensity that could be implemented as part of routine health care. NCT00842426
A polymorphic region defined by pCN2 (the 3' nontranslated region of N-ras) maps to chromosome 9cen-p12.

Abnormalities of chromosome 9p have been reported in human leukemias and lymphomas, and in cell lines lacking the enzyme methylthioadenosine phosphorylase. It has been shown pCN2, the 3′ nontranslated region of the N-ras oncogene, crosshybridizes with unknown DNA segments on chromosome 6, 9p, and 22, in addition to the N-ras oncogene itself on chromosome 1p. To use pCN2 to study chromosome 9p abnormalities in malignancies, we undertook to localize the pCN2 crosshybridizing region in chromosome 9p. By analyzing the copy numbers of the pCN2 crosshybridizing bands associated with chromosome 9p among various chromosomally aberrant human cell lines, we mapped the pCN2 hybridizing region to 9cen-p12. Since there is no other available probe in this region, pCN2 should prove very useful in studying abnormalities of chromosome 9p in human malignancies.
Maternal and paternal parenting, acculturation, and young adolescents' psychological adjustment in Korean American families.

PROBLEM: Maintaining healthy psychological adjustment may be more complicated for Korean American young adolescents than for their European American counterparts. Korean American families live in two cultures and the issue of acculturation challenges their parenting, which is a critical factor for young adolescents’ psychological adjustment. METHODS: Hierarchical multiple regressions were used to analyze 106 family data (young adolescents, mothers, and fathers) on parenting (acceptance–rejection and behavioral control), acculturation (integration, assimilation, separation, and marginalization), and young adolescents’ psychological adjustment. FINDINGS: Only young adolescents’ reports of maternal and paternal acceptance–rejection were related to their report of psychological adjustment. However, maternal acculturation moderated the relation between mothers’ reports of maternal acceptance–rejection and behavioral control and young adolescents’ report of their psychological adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: Parental acceptance–rejection is related to young adolescents’ psychological adjustment when adolescents perceive themselves as accepted or rejected by parents. The relation between mothers’ report of maternal acceptance–rejection and behavioral control and adolescents’ psychological adjustment needs to be considered within the context of maternal acculturation.
Evidence for material between Saturn's A and F rings from the Voyager 2 photopolarimeter experiment

The region in the Saturn system between the F ring and the outer edge of the A ring is an area that appears, in images from the imaging experiment, to be virtually devoid of material except for three small satellites. Near the orbit of 1980S28, Atlas - the innermost satellite - the Voyager Photopolarimeter Stellar Occultation data show a discontinuity in count rate which marks a boundary between the tenuous material near the outer edge of the A ring and the orbit of Atlas. The data pertaining to this region have been examined with the aid of statistics and models generated from other similar ring structures. It is concluded that the discontinuity is real, implying the existence of tenuous material of normal optical depth of 0.01 to 0.006 in this region.
WATGEN: An algorithm for modeling water networks at protein–protein interfaces

Water molecules at protein-protein interfaces contribute to the close packing of atoms and ensure complementarity between the protein surfaces, as well as mediating polar interactions. Therefore, modeling of interface water is of importance in understanding the structural basis of biomolecular association. We present an algorithm, WATGEN, which predicts locations for water molecules at a protein-protein or protein-peptide interface, given the atomic coordinates of the protein and peptide. A key element of the WATGEN algorithm is the prediction of water sites that can form multiple hydrogen bonds that bridge the binding interface. Trial calculations were performed on water networks predicted by WATGEN at 126 protein-peptide interfaces (X-ray resolutions <or= 2.0 A), using different criteria for water placement. The energies of the predicted water networks were evaluated in AMBER8 and used in the choice of parameters for WATGEN. The 126 interfaces include 1264 experimentally determined bridging water sites, and the WATGEN algorithm predicts 72 and 88% of these sites within 1.5 and 2.0 A, respectively. The predicted number of water molecules at each interface was much higher than the number of water molecules identified experimentally. Therefore, random placement of the same number of water molecules as that predicted at each interface was performed as a control, and resulted in only 22 and 40% of water sites placed within 1.5 and 2.0 A of experimental sites, respectively. Based on these data, we conclude that WATGEN can accurately predict the location of water molecules at a protein-peptide interface, and this may be of value for understanding the energetics and specificity of biomolecular association.
Non‐linguistic cognitive treatment for primary language impairment

Children with primary or ‘specific’ language impairment (PLI) demonstrate subtle deficits in non‐linguistic cognitive processing skills that may play a causal or contributing role in PLI. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possibility that short‐term treatment of non‐linguistic cognitive processing skills improves language abilities in school‐aged children with PLI. Two children with severe PLI participated in a treatment study following a single‐subject multiple‐baseline design across participants and skill areas. Treatment activities targeted auditory memory and speed of processing for visual information. Results of both repeated dependent measures and pre‐ and post‐ standardized language testing indicated that participants made gains in expressive language skills, particularly naming. This preliminary evidence suggests that treatment of non‐linguistic cognitive processing skills may facilitate change in some areas of language skill. Treatment of non‐linguistic processing skills should be ...
The Dietitians’ Philosophy and Practice in Multidisciplinary Weight Management

Abstract Dietitians are developing a philosophy and a practice protocol of weight management. A professional philosophy of weight management addresses questions about the social, psychological, and biological spectra of weight management: Should overweight be considered in terms of size acceptance or gluttony and sloth? How should emotional overeating and obsessive restriction be managed? Should obesity be considered a chronic disease, or should the idea that health at every size is possible be espoused? A professional practice protocol addresses another set of questions: Is obesity to be viewed as a short-term and long-term health challenge? Regarding the spectrum of antiobesity agents and antidieting approaches of weight management, what professional position and individual practice will be adopted? Should professional contact with patients be continuous or aimed toward self-care? What measures of successful outcomes will be used: weight change or life quality improvement? How should professional responsibility be balanced with personal concerns about eating and health behaviors that affect body weight? What are examples of closing the gap between the vision and the reality of the roles and goals of the dietitian on a weight management team? Dietitians are translating philosophy into practice. Because dietary control alone has a record of limited success in weight loss and less success in maintaining weight loss, the dietitian's expanded role includes helping patients manage weight with coping skills, motivation techniques, physical activity, and food behavior change. The challenge is integrating functional components of practice with dietitians' unique food and nutrition skills that include selection of alternative foods, portion control, and preparing acceptable, tasty foods for lifelong weight management. J Am Diet Assoc. 1998;98(suppl 2):S49–S54 .
Effect of neutralizing cation type on the morphology and properties of model polyurethane ionomers

Abstract The influence of cation type on the morphology and properties of model polyurethane ionomers is investigated in ionomers with different backbone types, pendant anion types and ionic group concentrations. A correlation between the degree of ordering in the local environment of the neutralizing cation and the tensile properties of the ionomers is observed. The geometrical packing constraints of the pendant anion are also seen to be a critical factor in determining the physical properties of ionomers. Differential scanning calorimetry results indicate no significant differences in the extent of phase separation of ionomers neutralized with different cations; however, anion type is shown to have a large influence on the degree of phase separation. Small-angle X-ray scattering analysis of the morphology of the ionomers reveals a correlation between the number of ionic groups per aggregate and the low-temperature storage modulus measured by dynamic mechanical analysis. The importance of the electronic structure and geometrical packing constraints of the ionic groups is emphasized.
Genetic susceptibility to goldthioglucose-induced obesity in mice.

SummaryFive inbred strains of mice (C58, CBA, RIII, DBA and BALB/C) and 5 F1 hybrid combinations were studied with respect to effects of single injections of various concentrations of goldthioglucose on body weight gain and lethal toxicity. Gain in body weight and mortality following a single injection of goldthioglucose was dependent on strain of mice and amount injected. In general, there was a greater increase in weight gain when larger doses of goldthioglucose were administered. The C58, RIII, DBA and BALB/C strains of mice showed a relatively variable weight gain and mortality as compared to the CBA strain over the dose range of administered goldthioglucose. Mice of the latter strain were unique in that they showed a uniform response with respect to these 2 parameters. The F1 hybrid mice showed a weight gain response and a LD/100 dose comparable to that of the CBA strain.
Analysis of multisite ion binding using sodium-23 NMR with application to channel-forming micellar-packaged malonyl gramicidin

Abstract A multisite analysis of sodium-23 NMR data is presented for malonyl gramicidin transmembrane channel incorporated in lysolecithin micelles. Evidence of multiple-ion occupancy in the channel is provided from an analysis of longitudinal and transverse relaxation times. Three single-filing multiple occupancy models are presented with detailed equilibrium analysis. The binding constants and the off-rate constants of two delineated sodium binding sites are estimated from an examination of chemical shift, linewidth, the nonexponential transverse relaxation, and the shape of the resonance lines.
A Criterion for Stability of Two-Term Recurrence Sequences Modulo 2k

The authors describe a technique for characterizing stable two-term recurrence sequences and apply the technique to identify stable sequences that were not previously known to be stable.
Finding protein domain boundaries: an automated, non-homology-based method

A sequence-based methodology identifies the boundaries of structural domains in proteins. The method doesn't depend on knowledge of a protein's structure or on sequence homologs. We developed a Bayesian approach based on the statistical analysis of word content used in other fields. Our method first catalogs "pattern" frequencies - occurrences of groups of amino acids - in a nonredundant database of known protein domains and then uses the distributions of these patterns to identify regions of protein sequence that appear to signal the beginnings and ends of domains. The domain-delineating signals we've produced using amino acid patterns show great promise in providing further insight into both the biochemistry and structural biology of proteins.
The system of social identities in Tajikistan: Early warning and conflict prevention

Abstract The paper aims to explore the interconnections between social identities (ethnic, national, regional and religious) and conflict intentions in Tajikistan. Based on the analysis of the dynamics of identity-based conflicts, the paper emphasizes the importance of an early warning system that centers on social identity and shows what impact such factors as national identity building, religious identity revival, and regional identity reinforcement have on processes of conflict prevention, resolution, and reconciliation. Through the examination of the components of the model, including such factors as intergroup prejudice, outgroup threat, identity salience, ingroup primacy, forms of social identity, and modes of identity meaning, the author shows the main threats to peaceful co-existence in Tajikistan.
Tongue-lip adhesion

The management of Pierre Robin sequence is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. A thorough workup must be done to exclude sites of airway obstruction other than the base of the tongue and to exclude central sleep apnea. Airway security is critical and can be managed nonoperatively in most children. When surgical management is necessary, the tongue-lip adhesion is the first step in many institutional algorithms. Multiple modifications have been described, but the basic premise is an anterior advancement of the tongue base and suture fixation of the tongue to the lip. This increases the diameter of the airway and results in safe and successful management in the overwhelming majority of patients. There are few sequelae with the most common being dehiscence. This can be prevented by intermuscular sutures, a circummandibular stitch, and release of the genioglossus muscle. Once mandibular “catch-up” growth has been achieved, the tongue-lip adhesion may be reversed.
The Potential Role of the Na + /H + Exchanger in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury of the Central Nervous System

The Na+/H+ exchangers (NHEs) are a group of expressed membrane proteins which have a role in regulating intracellular pH. NHEs are expressed in virtually all mammalian cells and there are currently eight identified isoforms (NHE1-NHE8). The exchangers, together with other membrane transport systems such as the Na+/HCO3 - cotransporter and the Cl- /HCO3 - exchanger, provide an important mechanism for eliminating excessive acid production during physiological cell metabolism and under pathological conditions (1). NHEs 6–8 differ from the other isoforms in that they are found intracellularly, where they may associate with mitochondria and the trans Golgi network rather than with the plasma membrane (2).
Leptin Protects Host Cells from Entamoeba histolytica Cytotoxicity by a STAT3-Dependent Mechanism

The adipocytokine leptin links nutritional status to immune function. Leptin signaling protects from amebiasis, but the molecular mechanism is not understood. We developed an in vitro model of ameba-host cell interaction to test the hypothesis that leptin prevents ameba-induced apoptosis in host epithelial cells. We demonstrated that activation of mammalian leptin signaling increased cellular resistance to amebic cytotoxicity, including caspase-3 activation. Exogenous expression of the leptin receptor conferred resistance in susceptible cells, and leptin stimulation enhanced protection. A series of leptin receptor signaling mutants showed that resistance to amebic cytotoxicity was dependent on activation of STAT3 but not the Src homology-2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase (SHP-2) or STAT5. A common polymorphism in the leptin receptor (Q223R) that increases susceptibility to amebiasis in humans and mice was found to increase susceptibility to amebic cytotoxicity in single cells. The Q223R polymorphism also decreased leptin-dependent STAT3 activation by 21% relative to that of the wild-type (WT) receptor (P = 0.035), consistent with a central role of STAT3 signaling in protection. A subset of genes uniquely regulated by STAT3 in response to leptin was identified. Most notable were the TRIB1 and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) genes, which have opposing roles in the regulation of apoptosis. Overall apoptotic genes were highly enriched in this gene set (P < 1E-05), supporting the hypothesis that leptin regulation of host apoptotic genes via STAT3 is responsible for protection. This is the first demonstration of a mammalian signaling pathway that restricts amebic pathogenesis and represents an important advance in our mechanistic understanding of how leptin links nutrition and susceptibility to infection.
A nanostructure-initiator mass spectrometry-based enzyme activity assay

We describe a Nanostructure-Initiator Mass Spectrometry (NIMS) enzymatic (Nimzyme) assay in which enzyme substrates are immobilized on the mass spectrometry surface by using fluorous-phase interactions. This “soft” immobilization allows efficient desorption/ionization while also enabling the use of surface-washing steps to reduce signal suppression from complex biological samples, which results from the preferential retention of the tagged products and reactants. The Nimzyme assay is sensitive to subpicogram levels of enzyme, detects both addition and cleavage reactions (sialyltransferase and galactosidase), is applicable over a wide range of pHs and temperatures, and can measure activity directly from crude cell lysates. The ability of the Nimzyme assay to analyze complex mixtures is illustrated by identifying and directly characterizing β-1,4-galactosidase activity from a thermophilic microbial community lysate. The optimal enzyme temperature and pH were found to be 65°C and 5.5, respectively, and the activity was inhibited by both phenylethyl-β-d-thiogalactopyranoside and deoxygalactonojirimycin. Metagenomic analysis of the community suggests that the activity is from an uncultured, unsequenced γ-proteobacterium. In general, this assay provides an efficient method for detection and characterization of enzymatic activities in complex biological mixtures prior to sequencing or cloning efforts. More generally, this approach may have important applications for screening both enzymatic and inhibitor libraries, constructing and screening glycan microarrays, and complementing fluorous-phase organic synthesis.
Comparing ARTag and ARToolkit Plus fiducial marker systems

Fiducial marker systems are systems of unique patterns and computer vision algorithms that help solve the correspondence problem, automatically finding features in different camera images that belong to the same object point in the world. Fiducial marker systems consist of patterns that are mounted in the environment and automatically detected in digital images using an accompanying detection algorithm, useful for augmented reality (AR), robot navigation, 3D modeling, and other applications. This paper compares the two recently developed systems ARTag and ARToolkit Plus on their reliability, detection rates, and immunity to lighting and occlusion. Processing in fiducial systems are defined as two stages, unique feature detection and verification/identification. The systems are compared considering these stages, experimental results are shown.
Anesthetic management and outcomes for patients with pulmonary hypertension and intracardiac shunts and Eisenmenger syndrome: a review of institutional experience

Abstract Study Objective To propose a set of recommendations for the perioperative management of patients with Eisenmenger syndrome and similar physiology, based on 20 years of experience at a single institution. Design Retrospective study of institutional outcomes of Eisenmenger syndrome patients and patients with balanced or fixed right-to-left intracardiac shunts with pulmonary hypertension undergoing noncardiac surgery. Setting Single center, university-affiliated hospital. Measurements Measurements included data from patients with Eisenmenger syndrome or similar physiology, shunt direction, right ventricular systolic pressure, congestive heart failure classification, noncardiac surgery, type of anesthesia, echocardiographic and catheterization data, mortality within 30 days of surgery, choice of monitoring, and vasopressor use. Main Results 33 patients with Eisenmenger syndrome or similar physiology undergoing 53 general, regional and/or monitored anesthetic procedures were identified. Significant systemic arterial hypotension occurred in 14 individuals (26%) and oxygen desaturation in 9 (17%) patients. Administration of an intravenous (IV) vasopressor agent during induction significantly decreased the incidence of hypotension. The type of IV induction agent did not influence hemodynamic alterations, though patients who received propofol experienced a trend towards increased hypotension (83% of pts) when a vasopressor was not used. Inhalational induction, regardless of vasopressor use, was more likely to result in hypotension (60% of pts). The 30-day mortality was 3.8% (two pts). Both patients had minor elective procedures with monitored anesthesia care (MAC). Conclusions Hypotension is more common in patients with Eisenmenger syndrome and similar physiology when a vasopressor is not used during the peri-induction period, regardless of induction agent. Etomidate tended to have better hemodynamic stability than other induction agents. The use of a vasopressor is recommended. We present general recommendations for anesthesiologists and strongly recommend use of a vasopressor before or during induction to reduce hypotension along with complete avoidance of inhalational induction. Further, MAC anesthesia has been associated with perioperative and 30-day mortality.
Visualizing spatial and temporal variability in coastal observatories

In this paper, we describe a set of 3D and 4D visualization tools and techniques for CORIE, a complex environmental observation and forecasting system (EOFS) for the Columbia River. The Columbia River, a complex and highly variable estuary, is the target of numerous cross-disciplinary ecosystem research projects and is at the heart of multiple sustainable development issues with long reaching implications for the Pacific Northwest. However, there has been until recently no comprehensive and objective system available for modeling this environment, and as a consequence, researchers and agencies have had inadequate tools for evaluating the effects of natural resource management decisions. CORIE was designed to address this gap and is a major step towards the vision of a scalable, multi-use, real-time EOFS. Although CORIE already had a rich set of visualization tools, most of them produced 2D visualizations and did not allow for interactive visualization. Our work adds advanced interactive 3D tools to CORIE, which can be used for further inspection of the simulated and measured data.
Examination of Unplanned 30-Day Readmissions to a Comprehensive Cancer Hospital

Most unplanned readmissions to a tertiary cancer hospital were related to progression of disease, new diagnoses, and procedure complications.
Therapeutic hypothermia for cardiac arrest: Real-world utilization trends and hospital mortality

BACKGROUND: Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) improves outcomes following cardiac arrest in small clinical trials. OBJECTIVE: To study real-world utilization and outcomes in US hospitals. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTING: California hospitals. PATIENTS: Patients eligible for therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest. INTERVENTIONS: We analyzed all discharges from California (1999–2008) to identify patients eligible for TH after cardiac arrest. Patients were considered eligible for TH if both cardiac arrest and anoxic brain injury were among the administrative diagnoses (n = 46,833). Patients undergoing TH (n = 204) were identified through billing codes. MEASUREMENTS: TH utilization and in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: Use of TH increased over the study period with 87.3% (178/204) of TH occurring between 2006 and 2008. Few hospitals appeared to perform TH over the study period (47/419, 11.2%). Utilization of TH was concentrated in a few centers, with the top 3 of 419 centers accounting for 31.4% (64/204) of cases. Patients undergoing TH were younger, less likely to be male, more likely to be treated at teaching centers, and had similar comorbidities compared to eligible individuals who did not undergo TH. The adjusted odds ratio for hospital mortality among patients undergoing TH was 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–1.06, P = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS: TH utilization appears low, but implementation is increasing. Case selection and referral biases limit the analysis of the relationship between center TH volume and in-hospital mortality. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2012. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine.