cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intraamniotic Infection Rates after Intrauterine Pressure Catheter with and without Amnioinfusion

Objective This study aimed to examine the rates of intraamniotic infection between intrauterine pressure catheter with amnioinfusion and intrauterine pressure catheter alone. Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study of all women who had an intrauterine pressure catheter placement during labor at a tertiary referral hospital from January 2016 to June 2018. Outcomes were compared between women who had an intrauterine pressure catheter with amnioinfusion and intrauterine pressure catheter placement alone. The primary outcome was the rate of intraamniotic infection. Secondary outcomes included postpartum endometritis, postpartum hemorrhage (blood loss of ≥1,000 mL), quantitative blood loss (mL), and cesarean delivery. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), controlling for age, race, body mass index, gestational age, and length of time of rupture of membranes. Results Of 1,268 women with an intrauterine pressure catheter, 298 (23.5%) also had an amnioinfusion. Women who had amnioinfusion through an intrauterine pressure catheter compared with those who had intrauterine pressure catheter alone had similar rates of intraamniotic infection (5.4 vs. 8.0%, crude p = 0.12, aOR 0.69; 95% CI 0.39–1.21), as well as secondary outcomes such as postpartum endometritis (3.0 vs. 2.5%, crude p = 0.61, aOR 1.12; 95% CI 0.49–2.53), postpartum hemorrhage (16.1 vs. 15.8%, crude p = 0.89, aOR 1.07; 95% CI 0.75–1.54), blood loss (479.5 vs. 500 mL, adjusted p = 0.89), and cesarean delivery (40.6 vs. 43.1%, crude p = 0.45, aOR 0.90; 95% CI 0.68–1.19). Conclusion Amnioinfusion was not associated with increased odds of intraamniotic infection compared with intrauterine pressure catheter placement alone. Key Points
Small-scale Patchiness, Models of

Abstract : Patchiness is perhaps the most salient characteristic of plankton populations in the ocean. The scale of this heterogeneity spans many orders of magnitude in its spatial extent, ranging from planetary down to microscale (Figure 1). It has been argued that patchiness plays a fundamental role in the functioning of marine ecosystems, insofar as the mean conditions may not reflect the environment to which organisms are adapted. For example, the fact that some abundant predators cannot thrive on the mean concentration of their prey in the ocean implies that they are somehow capable of exploiting small-scale patches of prey whose concentrations are much larger than the mean. Understanding the nature of this patchiness is thus one of the major challenges of oceanographic ecology.
Semi-automated system for assembly of insulated corner faux bricks

Insulated faux brick (IFB) is an improvement on traditional faux brick that aims to further reduce weight and installation time while providing insulation characteristics beyond traditional brick. Current production of insulated faux corner bricks relies on human workers to apply adhesive and press together two end pieces until the adhesive has dried. This is a time-consuming step which is not easily scalable to higher production rates. This research explored potential automated solutions to meet the ever-increasing demand. Specifically, the concept discussed in this paper uses a modular array of joining units that can be repeated to achieve the desired scale of production. This concept was verified through the construction of a beta prototype containing two joining units and a low-cost glue dispensing system to service both units. The prototype was operated continuously with an average throughput greater than two bricks per minute and with similar quality to the manual process. Based on a critical path analysis, a production system with eight joining units based on the same modular architecture has the potential for a threefold increase in production rate per worker.
A cerebellar-prepontine circuit for tonic immobility triggered by inescapable threat

Abstract Sudden changes in the sensory environment are frequently perceived as threats and may provoke defensive behavioral states. One such state is tonic immobility, a conserved defensive strategy characterized by a powerful suppression of movement and motor reflexes. Tonic immobility has been associated with multiple brainstem regions and cell types, but the underlying circuit is not known. Here, we demonstrate that a strong vibratory stimulus evokes tonic immobility in larval zebrafish defined by suppression of exploratory locomotion and sensorimotor responses. Using a circuit-breaking screen and targeted neuron ablations, we show that cerebellar granule cells and a cluster of glutamatergic ventral prepontine neurons (vPPNs) that express key stress-associated neuropeptides are critical components of the circuit that suppresses movement. The complete sensorimotor circuit transmits information from primary sensory neurons through the cerebellum to vPPNs to regulate reticulospinal premotor neurons. These results show that cerebellar regulation of a neuropeptide-rich prepontine structure governs a conserved and ancestral defensive behavior that is triggered by inescapable threat.
Styrene-maleic acid copolymer effects on the function of the GPCR rhodopsin in lipid nanoparticles.

Abstract Styrene-maleic acid (SMA) copolymers solubilize biological membranes to form lipid nanoparticles (SMALPs) that contain membrane proteins surrounded by native lipids, thus enabling the use of a variety of biophysical techniques for structural and functional studies. The question of whether SMALPs provide a truly natural environment or SMA solubilization affects the functional properties of membrane proteins, however, remains open. We address this question by comparing the photoactivation kinetics of rhodopsin, a G-protein-coupled receptor in the disk membranes of rod cells, in native membrane and SMALPs prepared at different molar ratios between SMA(3:1) and rhodopsin. Time-resolved absorption spectroscopy combined with complex kinetic analysis reveals kinetic and mechanistic differences between the native membrane and SMA-stabilized environment. The results suggest a range of molar ratios for nanoparticles suitable for kinetic studies.
Human periodontal ligament stem cells and hormesis: Enhancing cell renewal and cell differentiation.

Abstract This paper provides a detailed assessment of hormetic dose responses by human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). Hormetic dose responses were induced by a broad range of chemicals, including dietary supplements (e.g., curcumin, ginsenoside Rg1), pharmaceutical/commercial substances (e.g., metformin) and endogenous agents (e.g., periostin, TNF-α) for cell proliferation/viability and osteogenic/adipocyte differentiation. This paper clarifies underlying mechanistic foundations of the hPLDSC hormetic dose responses and explores their therapeutic implications. Emerging evidence based on assessments of multiple types of stem cells shows hormetic dose responses to be widespread, reflecting considerable generality and a highly conserved evolutionary trait.
Artificial Emotional Intelligence and the Intimate Politics of Robotic Sociality

This article examines Artificial Emotion Intelligence (AEI) and its application in social robots. It argues that AEI and social robotics intensify practices of data-capture and algorithmic governan...
Introduction to Structure and Properties of Polymers, Metals, and Ceramics

Polymers, metals, and ceramics are everyday kitchen items, from aluminum, stainless steel, and nonstick cookware to ceramic plates and mugs. These materials found their way into medicine because no other materials could simulate the properties of mineralized and nonmineralized tissues. In addition, many of these kitchen materials are stable; they do not break down into low molecular weight materials that are harmful to the body's homeostasis.
On the incidence of profit and equity sharing: Theory and an application to the high tech sector

Abstract Profit and equity sharing benefit some firms through improvements in innovation, production quality, retention of key employees and specific human capital formation. The analysis predicts high share contract incidence in the high tech sector, a hypothesis supported by survey data collected from small and large high tech firms. However, externalities associated with this sector's market entry mechanism imply that the optimal level of profit and equity sharing may not have been achieved.
The Kinematics of the Ionized Filaments in Sgr A West

The ionized gas within a few parsecs of the center of our galaxy is contained primarily in a number of thin elongated filaments (Ekers, this volume). Infrared and radio line observations have succeeded in determining the gas velocities along the majority of these filaments. A comparison of the line emission velocities with general kinematic models indicates that the motion of the filaments between 0.3 and 2 pc from the center is consistent with predominantly orbital motion.
Undergraduates and Topic Selection: A Librarian's Role

Research shows that undergraduate students struggle with the initial stage of the research process, mainly identifying and defining a topic. Little current research addresses how undergraduates engage in this process, including how and where they seek help. The results of focus groups indicate that students have individual and varied methods for topic selection, but that many of them choose topics based on their perception of a few major characteristics, mainly perceived ease, pleasing the instructor/following the assignment, personal relatability and/or interest, and the ability to locate sufficient resources to research a topic. Many students identified their instructor as a person to ask for assistance, but fewer recognized a librarianâs role in this process. This article identifies how embedded librarians might better assist students with this difficult piece of the research process.
THE USE OF ELECTROMYOGRAPHY FOR SEAT ASSESSMENT AND COMFORT EVALUATION

A need to develop methodologies to obtain objective measurements of the effects of different seat contours on people is evident. In an effort to monitor muscle activity during static postures, eletromyography (EMG) was employed. In an experimental setting, fatigue was induced in back extensor muscles for different seated postures. The resultant EMG signals were then sampled bilaterally for three different vertebral levels and the effects of the different seating systems on posture were evaluated. In preliminary tests involving 4 subjects of similar size and build, utilizing three differently contoured seats findings support the use of EMG to quantify muscular fatique as a viable means of objectively measuring the effects of different seat contours. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference see IRRD 875189.
A Workflow Change Is a Workflow

Organizations that are geared for success within today's business environments must be capable of rapid and continuous change. This business reality is boosting the popularity of various types of workflow systems. However, current workflow systems are not yet capable of facing the ever-changing nature of their business environment. Part of the answer to the challenge, in our view, lies in change understanding, communication, implementation, and analysis. In this chapter, we present an overview of our work on modeling dynamic change within workflow systems. This work was recently completed by the introduction of ML-DEWS, a Modeling Language to support Dynamic Evolution within Workflow Systems. We firmly believe the thesis put forth in this chapter that a change is a process that can be modeled, enacted, analyzed, simulated and monitored as any process.
Experimental studies of solution processes Part V. Infrared absorption spectra for pure nitromethane and nitromethane plus carbon tetrachloride

Abstract Infrared absorption spectra between 4500 cm −1 and 2000 cm −1 are reported for nitromethane and nitromethane-carbon tetrachloride. Strong absorption bands are found with maxima near 3040 cm −1 , 2912 cm −1 , and 2850 cm −1 . The molar extinction coefficient of the band near 3040 cm −1 , decreases as the nitromethane concentration is decreased; but change of solvent does not affect the energy of this band.
Using smartphone apps in STD interviews to find sexual partners.

Objectives.Smartphone applications (apps) are increasingly used to facilitate casual sexual relationships, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In STD investigations, tradit...
Toxoplasmosis: risk variations in New York City obstetric patients.

Abstract Toxoplasma antibody tests on over 4,000 New York City obstetric patients were analyzed by age, race, birthplace, and economic status. Positive dye tests were used to select all infections; positive complement-fixation tests were used to select comparatively recent infections. Greater prevalence of toxoplasmosis in whites than in blacks or Orientals was demonstrated. The highest prevalence of both old and comparatively recently acquired infection occurred in affluent whites. The white private patients continued to acquire toxoplasmosis at the highest rate of any patient group; three of 189 DT− patients became DT+ during their pregnancy. Prevalence was greater in foreign-born patients than in those born in the U.S.A. for all racial and economic groups. Instruction of obstetric patients, particularly the more affluent, to avoid the sources of T. gondii infection (ingestion of raw or poorly cooked meat and exposure to cat feces) is strongly recommended for the prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis.
Precision Screening for Colorectal Cancer: Promise and Challenges.

In this issue, Imperiale and colleagues' cross-sectional study evaluates whether the odds of detecting advanced colorectal adenomas can be predicted using a simple algorithm among “average-risk” pa...
Homosynaptic long-term depression of CA3-CA3 synapses in the in vivo hippocampus.

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that homosynaptic long-term depression (LTD) can be induced at the CA3–CA3 synapses in the adult, in vivo hippocampus while the CA3–CA1 synapses remain unchanged. Low-frequency conditioning stimulation of the contralateral fimbria significantly depressed the CA3 population response but did not change the simultaneously recorded CA3 response to angular bundle test stimulation. Similarly, in another group of animals, low-frequency conditioning stimulation of the contralateral fimbria depressed the CA3 synaptic response and left the collateral CA1 synaptic response unchanged. Among the possible explanations for this differential induction of homosynaptic LTD at the CA3–CA3 and CA3–CA1 synapses are differential control of intracellular calcium, differing levels of inhibition in these two regions, and the recency of `natural' long-term potentiation in the two regions.
Hedging, financing, and investment decisions: Theory and empirical tests

Abstract In this paper we theoretically and empirically examine the interaction between hedging, financing, and investment decisions. A simple equilibrium model with costly financial distress suggests that as firms become more efficient at risky investments vis a vis low risk investments, they will borrow less, invest more in risky assets, and hedge more. The model also predicts a positive relationship between hedging and leverage – a result consistent with debt capacity arguments. We test the model empirically using a simultaneous equations framework to investigate the determinants of firm-level hedging, financing and investing decisions. The results strongly support the hypothesis that the hedging, financing and investment decisions are jointly determined. In addition, we find strong support for the central hypothesis that firms more efficient investing in risky technologies more aggressively hedge and use less debt financing in order to maximize their comparative advantage.
Automated ground-water monitoring with Robowell: case studies and potential applications

Robowell is an automated system and method for monitoring ground-water quality. Robowell meets accepted manual- sampling protocols without high labor and laboratory costs. Robowell periodically monitors and records water-quality properties and constituents in ground water by pumping a well or multilevel sampler until one or more purge criteria have been met. A record of frequent water-quality measurements from a monitoring site can indicate changes in ground-water quality and can provide a context for the interpretation of laboratory data from discrete samples. Robowell also can communicate data and system performance through a remote communication link. Remote access to ground-water data enables the user to monitor conditions and optimize manual sampling efforts. Six Robowell prototypes have successfully monitored ground-water quality during all four seasons of the year under different hydrogeologic conditions, well designs, and geochemical environments. The U.S. Geological Survey is seeking partners for research with robust and economical water-quality monitoring instruments designed to measure contaminants of concern in conjunction with the application and commercialization of the Robowell technology. Project publications and information about technology transfer opportunities are available on the Internet at URL http://ma.water.usgs.gov/automon/© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Level of GAD67 Protein Is Highly Sensitive to Small Increases in Intraneuronal γ-Aminobutyric Acid Levels

Increases (> 2.5-fold) in GABA levels in rat brain lead to a large decrease in the level of the 67-kDa form of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD67) through a mechanism involving either a change in GAD67 protein stability or a change in GAD67 mRNA translation. In the present study, brain levels of GABA were manipulated by treating rats with various doses of gamma-vinyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid (GVG), and the dependence of total GAD activity and levels of GAD67 and GAD65 protein on the levels of GABA was analyzed. Initial studies showed that both GABA and GAD67 protein levels reached new steady-state levels after two to four daily injections; GABA increased 1.5- (30 mg of GVG/kg) and fourfold (150 mg of GVG/kg), and GAD67 protein content decreased by 30 and 70%. To assess the sensitivity of GAD67 to GABA, rats were injected with eight different doses of GVG (15-150 mg/kg) for 5 days. With increasing doses of GVG, we observed a gradual increase in both whole-tissue and synaptosomal GABA levels and a gradual decrease in GAD67 protein and GAD activity. The levels of GAD65 remained constant at all GVG doses. GAD67 was remarkably sensitive to GABA. The synaptosomal GAD67 level decreased approximately 12% and the whole-neuron GAD67 level decreased approximately 3% for each 1% increase in nerve terminal GABA content when it was close to its physiological level. Our results clearly demonstrate that GAD67 is tightly controlled by intraneuronal GABA, and we suggest that this regulatory mechanism has important implications for the physiological regulation of GABAergic function in the mammalian brain.
The US Food and Drug Administration's selection and validation of tests for foodborne microbes and microbial toxins

Abstract To accomplish its mission in regulating the safety of the national food supply, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must have testing methods that can be defended in a court of law. These methods must, at minimum, be reproducible. Whenever possible, the methods are validated according to procedures recommended by such international organizations as the AOAC INTERNATIONAL, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Dairy Federation (IDF/FIL). Whenever it is not possible to validate a method fully prior to its use, FDA relies on the peer-reviewed scientific literature and the results of its own peer-reviewed research. FDA publishes its preferred methods to test foods for microbial pathogens and toxins in the FDA Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM), currently in its 8th edition (1995) and issued by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.
The myth of incompatibility of gentamicin and heparin revisited.

Introduction Earlier reports indicated that gentamicin should not be mixed with heparin due to precipitation and drug mixture incompatibility. With the recent increased interest in antibiotic lock technique for prophylaxis or adjuvant therapy for hemodialysis catheter-associated infections, it became prudent to reexamine the issue. Method A mixture of gentamicin (100 µg/mL) and heparin (5,000 U/mL) in normal saline was stored for up to 4 weeks at 4oC. Gentamicin concentration and bactericidal and anticoagulant activities were measured for up to 4 weeks of storage. Results The mixture did not show any turbidity or precipitation after fresh preparation, at 48 hours or 4 weeks of storage at 4oC. Gentamicin concentration (mean ± SD) was 89 ± 7.5 µg/mL, 87 ± 1.0 µg/mL and 85 ± 3.0 µg/mL; gentamicin bactericidal activity was at 1:256 ± 0, 1:256 ± 0 and 1:213 ± 74 dilutions, after fresh preparation, at 48 hours or 4 weeks of storage at 4oC, respectively (p=NS). Heparin anti-Xa activity was 7,500 ± 990 U/mL and 6,700 ± 707 U/mL, fresh mixture vs. after 4 weeks of storage at 4oC, respectively (p=NS). Conclusion In our in vitro experiments we showed that a mixture of gentamicin (100 µg/mL) and heparin (5,000 U/mL) in normal saline retained its gentamicin concentration, bactericidal activity and anticoagulant activity for up to 4 weeks of storage at 4oC. We also present a brief review of the literature on this subject.
The peer relationships of girls with ASD at school: comparison to boys and girls with and without ASD

Background This study examines the social relationships of elementary school children with high-functioning autism, focusing on how gender relates to social preferences and acceptance, social connections, reciprocal friendships, and rejection. Method Peer nomination data were analyzed for girls with and without ASD (n = 50) and boys with and without ASD (n = 50). Girls and boys with ASD were matched by age, gender, and IQ. Each child with ASD was matched by age and gender to a typically developing classmate. Results Consistent with typically developing populations, children with ASD preferred, were accepted by, and primarily socialized with same-gender friends. With fewer nominations and social relationships, girls and boys with ASD appear more socially similar to each other than to the same-gender control group. Additionally, girls and boys with ASD showed higher rates of social exclusion than their typically developing peers. However, boys with ASD were more overtly socially excluded compared to girls with ASD, who seemed to be overlooked, rather than rejected. Conclusions Our data suggest a number of interesting findings in the social relationships of children with ASD in schools. Like typically developing populations, children with ASD identify with their own gender when socializing and choosing friends. But given the social differences between genders, it is likely that girls with ASD are experiencing social challenges that are different from boys with ASD. Therefore, gender is an important environmental factor to consider when planning social skills interventions at school.
Immunologically restricted and inhibitory anti-Ro/SSA in monozygotic twins.

A pair of monozygotic twins with Sjogren's syndrome are described who both have large amounts of anti-Ro/SSA in their sera by ELISA, but no precipitin in double immunodiffusion. Unique among previously encountered specimens, sera from the twins inhibit the formation of Ro/SSA precipitins in double immunodiffusion by known anti-Ro/SSA positive SLE patients. The twins have near identical, clonally restricted anti-Ro/SSA autoantibodies as evaluated by isoelectric focusing and bind the same 60 kD Ro/SSA peptides. Thus, this pair of monozygotic twins has an identical fine specificity in their immune response to 60 kD Ro/SSA, despite potential differences in their immune response generated by random processes in the formation of immunoglobulin molecules and T cell receptors. These data imply that the anti-Ro/SSA found in these sera binds less than three epitopes such that soluble antigen/antibody complexes are formed instead of an insoluble complex that precipitates.
Synchronous Fluorescence Studies Of Anthracycline Anti-Tumor Drugs

Synchronous fluorescence (SF) is used to study structurally and spectrally similar anthracycline anti-tumor drugs in biological fluids and model membranes. SF bandwidths at half maxima are typically 20-24 nm versus 75-80 nm for unresolved spectra acquired during conventional scans. This substantial band-narrowing effect permits excellent resolution between Adriamycin and an interferant, 5- iminodaunorubicin, in a two-component mixture. SF detection limits for Adriamycin are 7 x 10-7 M in serum and 1.5 x 10-7 M in buffered aqueous solution. Additional studies of structurally homologous drugs in liposomes and organic solvents indicate that SF may be useful in characterizing the influence of substituent groups on relative membrane permeation depth.
Magnetic Pair Spectrometer Studies of Electromagnetic Transitions in C 14 and N 14

An intermediate-image pair spectrometer was used to study electromagnetic transitions in C14 and N14. Energy levels in these nuclei were populated by means of the eron energies between 1.9 and 3.1 Mev. In C14 a 6.58-Mev transition was observed in the internal pair spectrum but not in the external pair spectrum. From this a definite assignment of J pi = O+ can be made for the C14 6.58-Mev level. In N14 the branching ratios of the 5.69 yields 0 and 5.69 yields 2.31 transitions were determined to be 37 plus or minus 2%, respectively. The energy differences between close-lying pair lines were measured with sufficient accuracy to allow limits to be placed on the lifetimes of some states in C14 and N14. Thus, it was determined that the mean lifetime of the C14 6.58-Mev level is greater than 4 x 10-13 sec. (auth)
Social comparisons and income satisfaction: A cross-national examination

In this study we look at the cross-national applicability of social comparison theory. National samples of workers in 12 countries were used to examine the effect of social comparisons on pay satisfaction. After controlling for actual pay levels, three different pay comparisons were predictive of satisfaction with pay. Further, we showed that these social comparison effects extended across the majority of countries in this sample. We call for more research that specifically examines cultural dimensions of comparisons, within and across borders.
Separation of collagenase and a metal-dependent endopeptidase of rat uterus that hydrolyzes a heptapeptide related to collagen.

Abstract 1. 1. The synthetic peptide 2,4-dinitrophenyl- l -Pro- l -Leu-Gly l -Ile- l -Ala-Gly- l -Arg-amide (DNP-peptide) was tested as a potential substrate for uterine collagenase. Rat uteri were homogenized and the insoluble fraction was extracted at 60° C to obtain collagenase. The extracts were chromatographed on Sephadex G-150 to yield two peaks of DNP-peptide hydrolyzing activity. Peak I was completey inhibited by EDTA and had a molecular weight greater than 100 000. Peak II was inhibited about 90% by EDTA and had an apparent molecular weight of about 70 000. 2. 2. Peak II coincided closely, but not exactly, with the peak of collagenase activity. It differed from collagenase in heat stability, binding properties on CM-Sephadex and failure to display latency. 3. 3. Peak II represents a new endopeptidase activity. It has a pH optimum of 7 and it cleaves the DNP-peptide at the Gly-Ile and, possibly, the Leu-Gly bond. 4. 4. The DNP-peptide is not a satisfactory substrate for the assay of impure collagenase preparations nor does it inhibit the action of collagenase on collagen substrate when added in 30-fold molar excess.
Wound care in the dermatology office: Where are we in 2011?

Dermatologists perform several minor surgical procedures in their offices on a daily basis that result in superficial cutaneous wounds. Conventionally, the approach to postoperative care for these superficial wounds has been the application of a topical antibiotic ointment. In reality, this practice is based more on perception and habit, and not on sound scientific evidence, especially regarding reduction in postoperative infection rates and risk of adverse reactions. In addition, the routine use of a topical antibiotic in this scenario may contribute to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, and has been shown to increase the risk of allergic contact dermatitis. With few new antibiotics in development and several worldwide initiatives to curb the increase in antibiotic resistance in progress, it is important that clinicians reevaluate the standard postoperative wound care that is used after superficial office-based dermatologic procedures.
Atrial flutter in infancy

Atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation present difficult problems in management, particularly during infancy. The clinical experience with 6 personally observed and 30 reported cases of infantile atrial flutter is described. Two types of flutter are distinguished: type I (congenital), which occurs prior to birth or within the first week of life, responds to digitalis in about half the cases, and has a nearly equal sex distribution; and type II (paroxysmal), which occurs predominantly in males and infrequently responds to digitalization. The prognosis is poor if either atrial fibrillation or a coexistent congenital cardiac defect is present. Even in patients without these conditions, the prognosis is guarded. Digitalis is the treatment of choice since it induces a sinus rhythm in many cases and slows the ventricular response in the remainder. Cardioversion, although tried in only one patient, should be a useful therapeutic tool.
Prophylactic antibiotics reduce infectious complications of orthognathic surgery

Objective To evaluate the need for antibiotic prophylaxis in orthognathic surgery. Design Double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. Intervention Patients undergoing Le Fort I osteotomy with various mandibular osteotomies were randomised to receive either amoxycillin clavulanic acid (AC), cefuroxime (CF) or placebo (P) intravenously 30 minutes before surgery. Outcome measures Appearance of the wound at day 3 and 7 and at 1 month were assessed by a clinician not involved with the surgery using the following four categories: normal, oedematous, exudate with drainage of non-purulent material, or abscess with drainage of purulent material. Wound dehiscence was scored separately. Results Fifty-four patients were treated over the study period, of whom 15 developed infection. There was a statistically significant increased risk of infectious complication with no antibiotic prophylaxis. Calculating the NNT you would only need to provide antibiotic cover to three patients to prevent one patient suffering an infectious complication. Conclusion There is a statistically significant increased risk of having an infectious complication after orthognathic surgery if no antibiotic prophylaxis is given.
Efficacy of Anastrozole in a Consecutive Series of Advanced Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Multiple Prior Chemotherapies and Endocrine Agents: M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Experience.

Anastrozole is a highly selective, nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in January 1996 for the treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women with disease progression following tamoxifen therapy. To date, information on anastrozole's use has been limited to breast cancer patients with minimal prior therapy. The purpose of this review was to determine, in clinical practice, the benefits of anastrozole in advanced breast cancer patients treated with multiple prior cytotoxic and endocrine therapies. This was a retrospective review of a consecutive series of 117 patients who received anastrozole after marketing in January 1996. As this was not a prospective study, rigorous response criteria could not be applied. Responses were categorized as improvement in disease (ID), stable disease (SD), or progressive disease (PD). One hundred eight patients were evaluable for response with a median age of 61 years and the number of prior therapies ranging from one to nine. Response, defined as improvement of disease or stable disease >/=8 weeks, was seen in 59% of patients. Patients with three or more prior endocrine therapies demonstrated a 61% response (ID + SD) and patients with ER-negative tumors demonstrated 50% response. Patients with prior aminoglutethamide therapy exhibited similar response rates to the overall group. One male patient received anastrozole without benefit. This data determines the activity of anastrozole even in heavily pretreated patients and suggests that patients who have tumors that are ER-negative may also benefit from anastrozole therapy.
Evolution of neuronetworks.

Since the 1970s, the care of critically ill neurologic and neurosurgical patients has emerged as a developing subspecialty. Management of these patients involves an enormous amount of data generation and analysis. Review of the history of neuroepidemiology and neurocritical care demonstrates the inevitability of their present unwieldy burden of information. Compelling advantages of computerization in direct patient care include aid in data acquisition, analysis and remote access. Infrastructure and resources used to collect data on individual patients may be augmented to archive data in clinical databases. Several investigators have initiated information management projects including automation of bedside clinical documentation, development of systems for remote access to information and patient registries to study the natural history and outcome of specific neurological conditions. These are steps toward the development of integrated systems to aid in patient monitoring, data management, continuous quality improvement and the generation of hypotheses for further clinical investigation. Improvements in information management technology will allow increased efficiency in an era where information generation continues to increase exponentially.
Sar1-Ala8 angiotensin II blocks renin-angiotensin but not beta-adrenergic dipsogenesis.

Abstract Continuous, intravenous (IV) infusion (10 μg/min) of Sar1-Ala8 angiotensin II (P-113), an angiotensin II blocking analog, into rats greatly attenuated water intake resulting from IV renin (4 U) and IV angiotensin II (80 μg). P-113 infusion did not attenuate the drinking induced by the subcutaneous (SC) administration of beta-adrenergic agents: isoproterenol (0.05 mg/kg), quinterenol (4 mg/kg), and diazoxide (40 mg/kg). P-113 also functioned as a weak agonist with respect to the drinking response. It was concluded that beta-adrenergic dipsogenesis in not attributable to renin release but does depend upon some unknown renal endocrine factor.
Predicting mechanical competence of trabecular bone using 3D tensor-scale-based parameters

Trabecular bone (TB) consists of a network of interconnected struts and plates occurring near the joints of long bones and in the axial skeleton. In response to mechanical stresses it remodels such that trabeculae are aligned with the major stress lines, thus leading to a highly anisotropic network. Beside bone volume fraction, anisotropy and topological indices are known to be strong predictor of the TB mechanical competence. In osteoporosis, the most common bone disorder, the remodeling balance is perturbed due to increased resorption, resulting in net bone loss accompanied by architectural deterioration, leading to fragile bone and increased fracture risk. In vertebral osteoporosis, preferential loss of transverse trabeculae leads to increased anisotropy and change in topology, hence exact measurements of these parameters are of paramount interest. Current in vivo imaging yields voxel size comparable to TB thickness, thus resulting in inherently fuzzy representations. The commonly used methods for anisotropy require binarization which is difficult to achieve in the limited spatial resolution regime where the intensity histogram is mono-modal. Here, we present a new tensor scale (t-scale) based TB architectural measures that (1) obviates binarization, and (2) yields localized measures. We evaluate the performance of this method on micro-CT images of vertebral bone and test the hypothesis that the method, along with BMD and other structural parameters, allows prediction of TB’s mechanical competence. Toward this goal, we estimate Young’s modulus (YM) of (13mm) 3 vertebral TB samples under uniaxial loading and examine linear correlation of different t-scale parameters computed via micro-CT imaging .
In vitro collagen fibril alignment via incorporation of nanocrystalline cellulose.

Abstract This study demonstrates a method for producing ordered collagen fibrils on a similar length scale to those in the cornea, using a one-pot liquid-phase synthesis. The alignment persists throughout samples on the mm scale. The addition of nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC), a biocompatible and widely available material, to collagen prior to gelation causes the fibrils to align and achieve a narrow size distribution (36 ± 8 nm). The effects of NCC loading in the composites on microstructure, transparency and biocompatibility are studied by scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and cell growth experiments. A 2% loading of NCC increases the transparency of collagen while producing an ordered microstructure. A mechanism is proposed for the ordering behavior on the basis of enhanced hydrogen bonding during collagen gel formation.
Whisker-reinforced dental core buildup composites: effect of filler level on mechanical properties.

The strength and toughness of dental core buildup composites in large stress-bearing restorations need to be improved to reduce the incidence of fracture due to stresses from chewing and clenching. The aims of the present study were to develop novel core buildup composites reinforced with ceramic whiskers, to examine the effect of filler level, and to investigate the reinforcement mechanisms. Silica particles were fused onto the whiskers to facilitate silanization and to roughen the whisker surface for improved retention in the matrix. Filler level was varied from 0 to 70%. Flexural strength, compressive strength, and fracture toughness of the composites were measured. A nano-indentation system was used to measure elastic modulus and hardness. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the fracture surfaces of specimens. Whisker filler level had significant effects on composite properties. The flexural strength in MPa (mean +/- SD; n = 6) increased from (95+/-15) for the unfilled resin to (193+/- 8) for the composite with 50% filler level, then slightly decreased to (176+/-12) at 70% filler level. The compressive strength increased from (149+/-33) for the unfilled resin to (282+/-48) at 10% filler level, and remained equivalent from 10 to 70% filler level. Both the modulus and hardness increased monotonically with filler level. In conclusion, silica particle-fused ceramic single-crystalline whiskers significantly reinforced dental core buildup composites. The reinforcement mechanisms appeared to be crack deflection and bridging by the whiskers. Whisker filler level had significant effects on the flexural strength, compressive strength, elastic modulus, and hardness of composites.
Erythropoietin involves the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway, 14-3-3 protein and FOXO3a nuclear trafficking to preserve endothelial cell integrity

Background and purpose: Clinical indications for erythropoietin (EPO) in the vascular system reach far beyond the treatment of anemia, but the development of EPO as a non-toxic agent rests heavily upon the cellular pathways controlled by EPO that require elucidation. Experimental approach: We modulated gene activity and examined cellular trafficking of critical pathways during oxidative stress that may work in concert with EPO to protect primary cerebral endothelial cells (ECs) during oxidative stress, namely protein kinase B (Akt1), 14-3-3 protein, the Forkhead transcription factor FOXO3a. Key results: Here, we show that preservation of ECs by EPO during oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) required the initial activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K) pathway through Akt1, since specific pharmacological blockade of Akt1 activity or gene silencing of Akt1 prevented EC protection by EPO. EPO subsequently involved a series of anti-apoptotic pathways to activate STAT3, STAT5, and ERK 1/2. Furthermore, EPO maintained the inhibitory phosphorylation and integrity of the ‘pro-apoptotic’ transcription factor FOXO3a, promoted the binding of FOXO3a to 14-3-3 protein and regulated the intracellular trafficking of FOXO3a. Additionally, gene silencing of FOXO3a during OGD significantly increased EC survival, but did not synergistically improve cytoprotection by EPO, illustrating that EPO relied upon the blockade of the FOXO3a pathway. Conclusions and implications: Our work defines a novel cytoprotective pathway in ECs that involves PI-3 K, STAT3, STAT5, ERK 1/2, 14-3-3 protein and FOXO3a, which can be targeted for the development of EPO as a clinically effective and safe agent in the vascular system. British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 150, 839–850. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707161
Deteriorating Outcomes after Meniscal Repair Using the Meniscus Arrow in Knees Undergoing Concurrent Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Increased Failure Rate with Long-term Follow-up

BackgroundAn increased awareness of the degenerative changes that occur in the knee after meniscectomy has led to efforts to salvage the injured meniscus. Numerous devices have been developed in an effort to provide the dual benefits of a durable meniscal repair and minimal invasiveness.HypothesisThe Meniscus Arrow is comparable to conventional inside-out suture repair in accomplishing long-term healing of meniscal tears.Study DesignCase series; Level of evidence, 4.MethodsThis study is an extended follow-up of an original series of 32 patients withoutcomes analysis. All patients underwent meniscal repair with exclusive use of the arrow. All repairs were performed in the context of a concomitant anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Follow-up assessment included physical examination, arthrometry, the International Knee Documentation Committee instrument, and the Knee Disorders Subjective History visual analog scale. Intermediate follow-up at a mean of 2.3 years yielded a success rate of 90.6%. The me...
Non-linear and non-local transport processes in heterogeneous media: from long-range correlated percolation to fracture and materials breakdown

Abstract We review and discuss recent progress in modelling non-linear and non-local transport processes in heterogeneous media. The non-locality that we consider is caused by long-range correlations that either exist in the morphology of the media, or are caused by the transport processes themselves. The interplay between the non-linearity and non-locality is discussed in depth with the aim of establishing that, often non-linearity and non-locality are “two sides of the same coin”, such that one may have no meaning without the presence of the other one. First, we discuss linear and scalar, but non-local transport processes and, in particular, consider those in percolation systems with long-range correlations. It appears that there are significant differences between percolative transport processes in which the long-range correlations (or the covariance function) decrease with the distance r between two points, and those in which they increase as r does. Application of this problem to flow and transport in geological formations is discussed. We then consider linear vector percolation, one type of which, the rigidity percolation, provides an example of a non-local vector transport in heterogeneous media. Applications of vector percolation to modelling elastic properties of glasses, composite solids and rock, mechanical and viscoelastic properties of polymers, and vibrations and dynamical properties of heterogeneous materials are discussed. Non-linear and non-local scalar transport processes are discussed next, including various breakdown phenomena in disordered composites, power-law transport, piecewise linear transport characterized by a threshold, and non-linear processes that arise as a result of imposing a large external potential gradient on a heterogeneous medium. Their relevance to flow of non-Newtonian fluids in porous media, to electrical currents and dielectric breakdown in composite solids and doped polycrystalline semiconductors, and several other problems is then discussed. Finally, we discuss non-linear and non-local vector transport, the most important example of which is mechanical fracture of disordered solids. We discuss exactly solvable models of fracture, quasi-static and dynamic lattice models, molecular dynamics simulations, and continuum formulation of the problem. In all cases, the predictions of the models are compared with the relevant experimental data.
Classification and complete solution of the kinetostatics of a compliant Stewart–Gough platform

Abstract This paper studies a compliant Stewart–Gough platform whose six flexible links balance external loads, including force and moment, applied to a general point at the platform. Soma coordinates are used to express the location of the moving plate with respect to the base plate. The mathematical modeling involves both the kinematics and the statics. Seven kinematic and six static constraints are obtained. Vector dot- and cross-products are also cast in quaternion form which reduces the degree of the resulting constraints. By classifying the parameters to the knowns and the unknowns, five major problem types are recognized. Four of them are mathematically decoupled and the remaining one is coupled for which the obtained 13 polynomials are of the total degree of 5,971,968 which to the authors' best of knowledge is the largest kinematic problem ever investigated. After solving the equations with the numerical polynomial solver Bertini, we conclude that the upper bound to the number of nonsingular solutions is 29,272. In addition, for practical problems a parameter continuation is devised to recompute for only 29,272 generically nonsingular solutions. At last a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the solution process.
Investigating the role of state and local health departments in addressing public health concerns related to industrial food animal production sites.

Objectives Evidence of community health concerns stemming from industrial food animal production (IFAP) facilities continues to accumulate. This study examined the role of local and state health departments in responding to and preventing community-driven concerns associated with IFAP. Methods We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with state and county health department staff and community members in eight states with high densities or rapid growth of IFAP operations. We investigated the extent to which health concerns associated with IFAP sites are reported to health departments, the nature of health departments’ responses, and barriers to involvement. Results Health departments’ roles in these matters are limited by political barriers, lack of jurisdiction, and finite resources, expertise, and staff. Community members reported difficulties in engaging health departments on these issues. Conclusions Our investigation suggests that health departments frequently lack resources or jurisdiction to respond to health concerns related to IFAP sites, resulting in limited engagement. Since agencies with jurisdiction over IFAP frequently lack a health focus, increased health department engagement may better protect public health.