cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of ABO blood type with ovarian reserve

To investigate the relationship between ABO blood type and serum antimullerian hormone (AMH) as a marker of ovarian reserve. Retrospective chart review of all potential in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients between 2010 and 2013. The percentage of patients belonging to each ABO blood type with an AMH < 1 ng/ml, < 0.5 ng/ml and < 0.16 ng/ml was calculated. Within each AMH group, means and standard deviations for age and body mass index (BMI) were also calculated. Chi-square and Student’s t tests were used to compare percentages and means between AMH groups. Complete data was available for 2394 patients. The overall distribution of ABO blood types was: 37% (A), 18.1% (B), 5% (AB), and 39.9% (O). Of the 2394 patients, 2146 (89.6%) patients were Rhesus factor positive, while 248 (10.4%) patients were Rhesus factor negative. There was no difference in the percentage of patients belonging to each ABO blood type, or mean age and BMI in the AMH < 1 ng/ml group. The AMH < 0.5 ng/ml and < 0.16 ng/ml groups had a higher percentage of older patients, but there was no difference in mean BMI. No association between blood type and AMH < 0.5 ng/ml or < 0.16 ng/ml was found, even after controlling for age. Contrary to initial investigations, our study reveals no relationship between ABO blood type and ovarian reserve. The predictive value of ABO blood type for the evaluation of ovarian reserve remains questionable. Journal of Nature and Science, 1(2):e40, 2015.
Cruciferous Vegetables Reduce Morphological Markers of Colon Cancer Risk in Dimethylhydrazine-Treated Rats

Consumption of cruciferous vegetables has been associated with reduced colon cancer risk in human populations. However, little experimental evidence exists to support this association. Here, we report the effects of diets containing cruciferous vegetables on colon cancer risk. In Expt. 1, rats were fed a vegetable-free (basal) diet or diets containing different lyophilized cruciferous vegetables in concentrations between 4 and 10%. In Expt. 2, rats were fed the basal diet or diets containing 10-22.6% fresh cruciferous vegetables. Diets were fed for 2 wk (Expt. 1) or 3 wk (Expt. 2) before and 7 wk (Expt. 1) or 12 wk (Expt. 2) after administration of the colon carcinogen 1,2-dimethylhydrazine. Rats fed fresh vegetables were also injected with a low dose of carcinogen 18-24 h prior to termination. Groups fed lyophilized vegetables did not differ in aberrant crypt foci (ACF), sialomucin-producing foci, or mucin-depleted foci (MDF) numbers. However, all fresh vegetable diets significantly decreased ACF (approximately 40%) and MDF numbers. Activities of the hepatic phase I enzyme CYP2E1 did not differ among groups in either experiment. Hepatic glutathione S-transferase (GST) and quinone reductase activities did not differ among groups fed fresh vegetables, whereas the lyophilized cabbage diets decreased GST activity compared with the basal diet. Groups did not differ in apoptosis and cell proliferation labeling indices in colonic mucosa. This study indicates that fresh but not lyophilized cruciferous vegetables reduce colon cancer risk in rats. These results do not support changes in hepatic carcinogen metabolism or colonic crypt cytokinetics as a mechanism.
A Hybrid Conjoint Model With Iterative Response Scale Adjustment

A recent critique of Sawtooth Software’s Adaptive Conjoint Analysis model proposes an iterative procedure for adjusting self-explicated response scales to agree more closely with the respondent’s partial profile evaluations. The present paper implements this suggestion in the context of two variants of a full-profile, nonadaptive hybrid model. The model is described formally, and then it is applied to an illustrative data set.
Cell fusion induced by Nelson Bay Virus

Abstract We have investigated the mechanism of cell fusion induced by Nelson Bay virus (NBV), a reovirus which possesses properties distinct from other reoviruses of avian or mammalian origin. Virions have a morphology similar to that of other members of the genus reovirus, although the diameter of the outer capsid was found to be only 62–65 nm compared to 76 nm reported for other types. Analysis of the virion RNA and polypeptide species support the classification of NBV as a member of the reovirus genus. Cell fusion was a prominent feature of viral replication in PSEK and Vero cells and was evident prior to formation of infectious progeny virus. No fusion from without was demonstrated in the presence or absence of polybrene;fusion appeared to be dependent upon viral replication and was inhibited by cycloheximide. The mechanism of fusion does not appear to involve glycosylated proteins, which could not be detected in virions or immune precipitates from infected cells. Fusion was not inhibited by tunicamycin or 2-deoxyglucose, nor by the addition following infection of antisera to purified virions or to infected cells. These results suggest that fusion might involve a newly synthesized nonglycosylated protein that is not expressed on cell surfaces.
Comparing Survival of HMII Patients with Elevated LDH: Implications for Medical and Surgical Management

Purpose Hemolysis is one indirect marker for thrombus within a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). However, quantification of the degree of hemolysis is not established. This study examined survival associated with the treatment of patients supported with the HeartMate II (HMII) LVAD when they experience elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Methods and Materials All HMII LVAD implants at a single center from 2099-2012 were retrospectively reviewed (n=106). Five patients were excluded due to multi-organ failure immediately following implant. An additional 16 patients were excluded because LDH levels were not obtained during LVAD support. Elevated LDH was defined as a result >600U/L (normal range 125-250 U/L). Standard medical management (SMM) included aspirin (81-325 mg/day) and warfarin (INR target 2-2.5). Enhanced medical management (EMM) included aspirin and warfarin plus sequential or combination therapy including tPA (n=2), clopidogrel (8), prasugrel (1) or bivalarudin (2). Surgical managment (SM) consisted of LVAD pump exchange. Patient survival, defined as alive at the time of abstract submission or until transplant was collected. Data were analyzed using Fisher exact test (p Results 85 patients were analyzed and grouped based on their LDH levels. Patients with a LDH 600 U/L at any time were treated with EMM or SM and had a 63% survival (n=25/40). The subgroup of patients with a LDH >1000 U/L that continued SMM had a 38% survival (n=3/8) vs 50 % in the EMM group (n=3/8) vs 100% (n=7/7) in the SM group (p=0.023). Conclusions In conclusion, patients with LDH 1000 U/L without surgical intervention have a higher overall mortality. While all management strategies carry risks, this study provides evidence that pump exchange, in carefully selected patients, yields a higher survival rate than patients receiving standard or enhanced medical management.
Variation in Population Sex Ratio and Mating Success of Asexual Lineages of Alsophila pometaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)

Populations of Alsophila pometaria (Harris) are largely gynogenetic and composed of asexual females that must mate with a conspecific male to reproduce. Within this asexual contingent, there are a variety of electrophoretically defined multilocus genotypes. In this study we found that populations differ in sex ratio. We also found that there is an indication of differential mating success among asexual genotypes in a population of A. pometaria.
Photoacoustic spectroscopy: a measurement technique for low absorption coefficients.

The case in which a laser beam modulated at angular frequency w passes through the weakly absorbing windows of a gas cell which contains a nonabsorbing gas is investigated in this paper. In particular, the frequency dependences of the acoustic stresses in the gas which arise from the surface and bulk absorption are derived. An intermediate range of frequencies exists for which the acoustic stress due to surface absorption varies approximately as ω−1 and has an approximate 90° phase shift relative to the modulated laser beam and for which the acoustic stress due to bulk absorption varies approximately as ω−3/2 and has an approximate 45° phase shift. Numerical examples for a representative laser glass and air (nitrogen) are given.
Effect of Inertia on Finite Near-Tip Deformation for Fast Mode-III Crack Growth

The combined effects of finite deformation and material inertia have been analyzed for fast crack growth under antiplane loading conditions. A steady-state dynamic solution has been obtained for the finite strain on the crack line, from the moving crack tip to the moving transition boundary with the zone of small strains. The crack propagates in a material with a response curve in uniform shear that is linear at small strains, and which remains constant once a critical strain has been exceeded. The corresponding quasi-static solution is given in the full zone of large deformation. For the dynamic formulation, an explicit expression for the crack-line strain has been obtained by expanding the displacement in a power series in the distance to the crack line, with coefficients that depend on the distance to the moving crack tip. Substitution in the equation of motion yields a nonlinear ordinary differential equation for the relevant coefficient, which can be solved rigorously. The finite deformation crack-line fields have been matched to appropriate small-strain fields at the transition boundary. The principal result is that the dynamic strain remains bounded at the crack tip, apparently due to the effect of material inertia. The crack-line strain has been plotted for several crack-tip speeds. It decreases with higher crack-tip speed. An explicit expression has been given for the extent of the zone of finite deformation, as a function of the crack tip speed and the far-field loading.
Migration of surface-related multiples: tests on the Sigsbee2B dataset

We present a theory to generate pseudo-primary shot gathers from multiple and primary reections by performing a surface-consistent cross-correlation. The estimated pseudoprimaries exhibit the same kinematics as the original dataset with few transformation artifacts. We demonstrate that pseudo-primaries can accurately estimate missing traces as long as the gaps are within the acquisition spread. Pseudo-primaries can also help to extrapolate the data outside the acquisition spread. The image obtained by migrating the pseudo-primary gathers shows that multiple migration can provide valuable information under complex geology.
Moving Toward Critical Cultural Consciousness in ESOL and Bilingual Teacher Education

This study draws on research conducted with participants of a professional development project focusing on serving the needs of English language learners in U.S. public schools. We analyze the reflections of two preservice teachers as an assessment of our ability to meet our goal for social justice in teacher education. Qualitative analysis of the data reveals a view of teaching as a nonlocalized activity, beliefs that teaching is a neutral act, superficial acknowledgment of cultural issues, and contradictory attitudes about ESOL/bilingual education. We identify areas for enhancement in our teacher-education program to move beyond reductionist views of teaching and work toward culturally responsive pedagogy. There are many strategies to help students who are ESOL. Many of the strategies I learned about, I believe are good instructional practices for all students in the classroom, not only ESOL students. Sandy, a preservice teacher
Chronic inescapable footshock produces cholinergic system supersensitivity

Webb W, Campbell SS (1983): Relationships in sleep characteristics of identical and fraternal twins. Arch Gen Psychiatry 40: 10931095. Weissman MM, Gershon ES, Kidd KK, Prusoff BA, Leckman JF, Dibble E, Hamovit J, Thompson D, Pauls DL, Guroff JJ (1984): Psychiatric disorders in the relatives of probands with affective disorders. The Yale University-National Institute of Mental Health Collaborative Study. Arch Gen Psychiatry 4 1: 13-2 1. Winokur G, Cadoret R, Dorzab J, Barker M (197 I ): Depressive disease: A genetic study. Arch Gen Psychiatry 24: 135-144.
End-of-course and long-term retention outcomes for mastery and nonmastery learning paradigms

Using both end-of-course achievement outcomes and long-term cognitive retention as criteria, the present study provides comparative data on the effectiveness of a mastery and nonmastery approach to instruction. Differential effects across taxonomic levels were assessed for both criteria. The results indicated that mastery students performed significantly higher than non-mastery students for end-of-course outcomes at the highest taxonomic level and equally well for knowledge, comprehension, and application level outcomes. Retention differences were found for knowledge level outcomes only, with mastery students demonstrating significantly greater retention performance. The feasibility and desirability of implementing a learning for mastery paradigm in a single course at the college level are discussed relative to the magnitude of the present results.
Hemodynamic monitoring and pulse oximetry during percutaneous gastrostomy and jejunostomy: necessity or nuisance?

Hemoglobin desaturation and arrhythmias have been reported during diagnostic gastroscopy and colonoscopy. During endoscopic placement of percutaneous gastrostomy tubes (PEG), the gastroscope is inserted twice and the stomach is markedly distended, thus increasing the potential risk of complications. Also, the procedure is frequently performed in patients exhibiting underlying systemic disease or little respiratory reserve. Patients undergoing PEG or percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (PEJ) were studied prospectively. Blood pressure, pulse, pulse oximetry, and lead II ECG tracings were obtained. Measurements were made before sedation, after sedation, at gastroscope insertion, at gastrostomy placement, at gastroscope reinsertion, and at 5 min after the procedure. In all, 50 patients (mean age, 56.8 years; 16 women, 26 men) underwent PEG only (39 cases) or PEG/PEJ (11 cases). The endoscopy suite was the site for the procedure in 38 cases and the intensive care unit was used in 12 cases. The mean time required for PEG and PEG/PEJ was 14.7± 1.1 and 18.9±2 min, respectively. Blood pressure remained stable throughout the procedure. Sinus tachycardia was observed in 72% of patients. Arterial oxygen saturation decreased after the administration of intravenous sedation but remained constant during the procedure. We reached the following conclusions: (1) desaturation occurs during sedation, (2) saturation remains constant during PEG/PEJ, (3) the mean blood pressure remains constant during PEG/PEJ, and (4) PEG/PEJ are safe procedures and monitoring should be individualized.
The relationship between literacy and glycemic control in a diabetes disease-management program.

Purpose This study examined the role of literacy in patients with poorly controlled diabetes who were participating in a diabetes management program that included low-literacy-oriented interventions. Methods A before-after analysis was performed of a pharmacist-led diabetes management program for 159 patients with type 2 diabetes and poor glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c [A1C] > or = 8.0%). Clinic-based pharmacists offered one-to-one education and medication management for these patients using techniques that did not require high literacy. Literacy was measured by the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM) test and dichotomized at the 6th-grade level. The A1C values were collected prior to enrollment, at enrollment, and approximately 6 months after enrollment. Results Of the 111 patients with follow-up data, 55% had literacy levels at the 6th-grade level or below. Lower literacy was more common among African Americans, older patients, and patients who required medication assistance. There was no significant relationship between literacy status and A1C prior to enrollment or at enrollment. Over the 6-month study period, patients with low and high literacy had similar improvements in A1C. Conclusions This diabetes care program, which used individualized teaching with low-literacy techniques, significantly improved A1C values independent of literacy status.
Formalizing Flow Relationships in Data Archival and Reuse for Product Design

This paper explores the relationship between primary and carrier flows for design knowledge archival and reuse. Often, it is noted that flows (especially when modeling materials and signals) through an engineered system are accompanied by supporting flows (often energies). These accompanying flows (termed carrier flows), while being important to the overall (or black box) functionality of the system, are often of lesser interest during functional modeling activities related to conceptual design. However, when modeling a system for archival and reuse, not capturing these flows could hinder some of the more creative leaps where flows once used as a carrier flow in a system are now identified as viable primary flows. When systems are modeled utilizing primary/carrier flow designations, it may be easier to search and locate analogous systems. From a knowledge reuse standpoint, the physical solutions to carrier flows in one system may also be the physical solutions to primary flows in another design scenario. To assist with modeling, known primary/carrier flow combinations are presented in this paper. Modeling, archival, and reuse are presented, and the potential to identify creative leaps is explored.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Cyclooxygenase-2 expression in cultured cortical thick ascending limb of Henle increases in response to decreased extracellular ionic content by both transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. Role of p38-mediated pathways.

Abstract We showed previously that decreased extracellular salt or chloride up-regulates the cortical thick ascending limb of Henle (cTALH) COX-2 expression via a p38-dependent pathway. The present studies determined that low salt medium increased COX-2 mRNA expression 3.9-fold control by 6 h in cultured cTALH, which was blocked by actinomycin D pretreatment, suggesting transcriptional regulation. Luciferase activity (normalized to β-galactosidase activity) of the full-length (−3400) COX-2 promoter in cTALH increased from 1.8 ± 0.3 in control media to 5.8 ± 0.7 in low salt (n = 9;p < 0.01). Low chloride medium had similar effects as low salt has on COX-2 promoter activity. Deletion constructs −815, −512, and −410 were similarly stimulated, but −385 could not be stimulated significantly by low salt (1.8 ± 0.3versus 2.4 ± 0.5, n = 10). This suggested involvement of an NF-κB cis-element located in this region, which was confirmed by utilizing a construct with a point mutation of this NF-κB-binding site that was not stimulated by low salt medium. Co-incubation of the specific p38 inhibitor, SB203580 or PD169316, inhibited a low salt-induced increase in luciferase activity of the intact COX-2 promoter (5.8 ± 0.7versus 1.1 ± 0.2, n = 8 and 1.4 ± 0.4, n = 4 respectively, p < 0.01). Mobility shift assays indicated that the low salt medium stimulated NF-κB binding activity, and this stimulation was inhibited by p38 inhibitors. To test whether p38 also increased COX-2 expression by increasing mRNA stability, cTALH were incubated in low salt for 2 h, and actinomycin was then added with or without SB203580. p38 inhibition led to a decreased half-life of COX-2 mRNA (from 68 to 18 min, n = 4–7, p < 0.05). Therefore, these studies indicate that p38 stimulates COX-2 expression in cTALH and macula densa by transcriptional regulation predominantly via a NF-κB-dependent pathway and by post-transcriptional increases in mRNA stability.
Odor recognition in an artificial nose by spatio-temporal processing using an olfactory neuronal network☆

Abstract We have developed an analytical approach for an artificial chemosensing system that is based directly on olfactory neural circuits. An array of chemosensors, with response properties similar to olfactory sensory neurons, provides time-varying inputs to a computer simulation of the olfactory bulb (OB). The OB simulation produces spatio-temporal patterns of spiking that vary with odor type. These patterns are then recognized by a delay line neural network (DLNN). After OB–DLNN processing, odor identity is encoded by activity across DLNN units, and odor intensity is encoded by response latency, enabling discrimination among organic vapors over a range of concentrations.
THE BEHAVIOR OF POX VIRUSES IN THE RESPIRATORY TRACT III. THE SURVIVAL OF VARIOLA AND VACCINIA VIRUSES IN THE LUNGS OF MICE PREVIOUSLY INFECTED WITH VARIOLA

Recovery from the transient pulmonary reaction which accompanies the nasal instillation of variola virus in mice was followed by a measurable protection against the homologous virus and also against vaccinia. Variola virus which regularly survived in the lung of normally susceptible mice through the 5th day was noticeably reduced in titer on the 3rd day in the lung of recovered animals, and usually eliminated by the 5th day. Vaccinia virus produced a less severe systemic reaction in recovered mice and its titer in the lung was significantly reduced on the 5th day. The residence of both viruses in the lung of recovered mice was attended by pathological changes, visible macroscopically.
Effects of water deprivation and salt arousal of drinking on wheel turning activity of rats

Abstract Wheel turning activity and drinking were studied in 24 animals before, during, and following 24, 48, 72, and 96 hr of water deprivation. After recovery from deprivation, animals were divided into two equal groups and the effects of subcutaneous injections of 0, 2, 4, and 6 mEq of 15% NaCl with and without 25 mg/cc of procaine hydrochloride on wheel turning activity and drinking were determined. Hypertonic saline, although it significantly increased the 3 hr intakes following the activity period, had no measurable effect on wheel turning activity. Procaine hydrochloride did not have a significant effect on drinking or activity under the conditions of this experiment.
Mathematical modeling of absorbent highway noise barriers

Abstract Analytical modeling methods of complex noise barriers are presented in this paper. The models are developed by use of the geometrical theory of diffraction which allows for modeling of simple and complex shaped noise barriers. These models involve diffraction coefficients that include the influence of frequency, grazing angle, surface impedance and the source and receiver positions. The diffraction coefficients for complex shaped barriers are constructed from those for simple shapes by use of geometrical optics and physical acoustics. The influence of the ground on barrier diffraction is included through complex reflection coefficients for point sources off impedance covered planes. For highway noise barrier applications, the barrier noise reduction efficiency is calculated for a line of incoherent point sources. Scale model tests were conducted on barriers of various shapes. These include barriers shaped as thin walls, wedges, trapezoids with vertical or sloped walls and double thin walls. These barriers were tested with hard or absorbent surfaces erected over hard or absorbent ground.
RESONANCES, CHAOS, AND SHORT-TERM INTERACTIONS AMONG THE INNER URANIAN SATELLITES

The Portia group of Uranian satellites, representing 9 of the planet’s 13 tiny innermost moons, form a densely packed dynamical system. Hubble Space Telescope observations indicate that their orbits have changed significantly over two decades, and long-term numerical integrations show that their orbits are unstable over millions of years. To investigate the dynamical interactions of the Portia group satellites on the decade timescale over which orbital changes have been observed, we have performed a suite of 100–1000 yr N-body numerical integrations for a range of assumed satellite masses, which are at present not tightly constrained by observations. As first noted by Dawson et al. and recently investigated independently by Quillen and (Robert) French, the moons are configured in chains of interlinked first- and second-order eccentric resonances that contribute to chaotic behavior. We explore in detail several of the strongest of these interlinked resonances. The first such chain is a quintet of orbital resonances: Bianca is near a resonance with Cressida, which is itself near a resonance with Desdemona. Desdemona, in turn, is near a resonance with Portia, which is itself near a resonance with Juliet. The five participating resonances are: Cressida and Bianca (16:15), Desdemona and Cressida (47:46), Portia andmore » Desdemona (13:12), and Portia and Juliet (51:49). A second such chain is a set of two interlinked resonances: Cupid and Belinda (58:57) and Belinda and Perdita (44:43). We also report the new identification of a companion set of second-order inclination-type resonances (Cressida and Bianca (32:30), Desdemona and Cressida (94:92), Portia and Desdemona (26:24), Portia and Juliet (51:49), Cupid and Belinda (116:114), and Belinda and Perdita (88:86)), some of which result in quite strongly coupled variations in the inclinations of the interacting satellites. Using a robust formulation of orbital elements that accounts for the oblateness of Uranus, we probe the dynamical interactions among the moons in the time and frequency domains, and also in phase space, using numerical integrations of subsets of the inner moons, for a range of assumed masses. Several of the satellites are near mean-motion resonance with more than one neighbor, and undergo orbital variations at two nearly equal resonant frequencies. Such configurations of two interlinked resonances can result in chaotic behavior, associated with the transition of one resonant argument from circulation to libration. We demonstrate that, even on the short timescales investigated here, the dynamical interactions, onset of chaos, and associated Lyapunov times are highly sensitive to the masses of the interacting satellites.« less
Natalizumab update: a story of benefit and risk

Objective: To review the pharmacological basis of use and clinical evidence for the benefit and safety of natalizumab (NAT) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and Crohn's disease (CD). Methods: A literature search using PubMed and Ovid Medline was conducted and relevant articles published in the English language from the year 2000 to September 2009, containing the keyword, NAT, were reviewed. Additionally, professional meeting presentation abstracts, editorials, article bibliographies and information from the manufacturer were used. Results: NAT, a monoclonal antibody and first medication in the class of selective adhesions inhibitors tested in clinical trials, targets the trafficking and adhesion of leukocytes, inhibiting migration to sites of inflammation. It has been used successfully as monotherapy and in combination with interferon beta-1a or glatiramer acetate to decrease relapse rates and detectable lesions, and increase functional ability in patients with relapsing forms of MS. NAT has also shown benefit in CD unresponsive to standard immunosuppressive therapy. Major concerns with NAT use center on an association with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), but include the issue of antibody production to NAT and potential rebound effects following discontinuation of the drug. Conclusion: Clinical data suggest NAT provides benefit beyond standard therapies for MS and CD. However, concern about the serious adverse effect of PML will limit its use to patients in whom potential benefits outweigh possible risks.
Perturbations in cell cycle progression from radioactive DNA precursors.

RADIOACTIVE precursors of DNA have widespread application in eukaryotic cell systems for studies of kinetic phenomena, such as DNA metabolism and cell population growth, and for labelling DNA1,2 for biophysical or biochemical investigations. Implicit in their use is the assumption that the experimental endpoints are not perturbed by the presence of the labelling isotope(s). But the validity of this assumption requires reevaluation in the light of reports that the incorporation of radioactive compounds into cellular DNA causes significant biological anomalies, including mutations, chromosome aberrations, cell death3, growth retardation and strand breaks in the DNA molecule4 (for reviews see refs 5 and 6). At least one investigator5 has advocated separate evaluation of the potential perturbations in every experimental system using radioisotope-labelled nucleic acid precursors.
Z-Dependence of the Pair Production Cross Section at 1.33 and 2.62 Mev.

The $Z$-dependence of the pair production cross section has been measured at 1.33 Mev for Al, Cu, Sn, and Pb, and at 2.62 Mev for Be, C, Al, Cu, Sn, and Pb. A target is used which is thick for the positrons produced in it but thin for the incident gamma ray beam. The positrons stop in the target and are detected by observing their annihilation radiation with two NaI(Tl) scintillation counters in coincidence. At both energies the $Z$-dependence of the cross section is best represented by an equation of the form $a{Z}^{2}+b{Z}^{4}$. If it is assumed that the Born approximation calculations of the cross section give the correct value in the limit of low $Z$, then in lead at 2.62 Mev the measured cross section is 23 percent higher than the value calculated from the Born approximation, and 104 percent higher at 1.33 Mev. All these results are in good agreement with the exact numerical calculations of Jaeger and Hulme.The present measurement shows that near threshold the pair production cross section in lead is considerably higher than the Born approximation calculation, whereas at energies between 17 Mev and 280 Mev the value has been measured to be 10 percent to 15 percent lower than that calculated from the Born approximation. The crossover appears to occur at around six Mev.
Retinoblastoma with autoinfarction presenting as orbital cellulitis

We describe a case of unilateral retinoblastoma in a 13-month-old boy who presented with signs of orbital cellulitis. Heterochromia, hyphema, and vitreous hemorrhage were observed. Initial computed tomography (CT) imaging failed to reveal the calcified intraocular mass that was later identified on ultrasonography. Histopathology of the enucleated eye revealed diffuse inflammation and tumor necrosis but with absence of malignant retinoblastoma cells. Genetic testing was equivocal. The patient is presumed to have had retinoblastoma that underwent autoinfarction, leading to secondary inflammation. This case highlights the importance of complete ocular evaluation and proper imaging modalities in children presenting with orbital cellulitis.
Risk factors for postoperative mortality in bariatric surgery

Abstract Introduction. Appropriate patient selection is crucial to the success of bariatric surgery (BaS). The objective of this study was to identify risk factors of increased postoperative mortality in patients undergoing BaS on a national level. Methods. BaS patients ≥18 years old in the United States were identified from the 2001 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS). The effect of gender, age, insurance status, and need for reoperation on postoperative mortality was examined using multivariate logistic regression accounting for the NIS stratified sampling design and using comorbidity adjustments appropriate for index hospitalization data. Results. Analysis of 7,452,727 discharges identified 10,503 bariatric surgical patients meeting inclusion criteria. Estimates were generalizable to a national cohort of 52,098 patients with age 41 ± 10 years (mean ± SE), 84% women, length of stay (LOS) 3.9 ± 0.2 days, and overall mortality of 4 per 1000 BaS patients. Risk factors for postoperative in-hospital mortality are shown (Table). Mean LOS of those who died was 17.6 ± 3.7 days. Conclusion. Based on national data, risk factors for increased postoperative mortality in BaS patients include male gender, age > 39 years, Medicaid insured, and need for reoperation. These data can assist in optimizing BaS patient selection. ∗ . % of BaS population Odds ratio for death ∗ 95% Confidence interval ∗ P value ∗ Female 84 (ref) (ref) Male 16 2.1 1.1–4.3 0.04 Age 18–39 46 (ref) (ref) Age 40–49 32 2.6 1.1–6.5 0.04 Age 50–59 19 4.3 1.7–11 0.002 Private Insurance 83 (ref) (ref) Medicaid 4.7 3.9 1.2–13 0.03 No reoperation † 99 (ref) (ref) Reoperation 1 22 5.4–88 0.0001 ∗ Adjusted for factors in table plus race, region and comorbidities; † Reoperation during original admission; ref = referent group
Crystal structure of the Campylobacter jejuni Cj0090 protein reveals a novel variant of the immunoglobulin fold among bacterial lipoproteins

Bacterial lipoproteins play an important role in bacterial pathogenesis and physiology. The genome of Campylobacter jejuni, a major foodborn pathogen, is predicted to contain over 20 lipoproteins. However, the functions of the majority of C. jejuni lipoproteins remain unknown. The Cj0090 protein is encoded by a lipoprotein operon composed of cj0089, cj0090, and cj0091. Here, we report the crystal structure of Cj0090 at 1.9 A resolution, revealing a novel variant of the immunoglobulin fold with β-sandwich architecture. The structure suggests that Cj0090 may be involved in protein-protein interactions, consistent with a possible role for bacterial lipoproteins.
Factors Related to the Incidence of the Malabsorption Syndrome

Malabsorption syndrome has been produced in the laboratory with chicks and feed supplied by poultry integrators who had experienced the problem. Feed supplied by one company produced chicks that developed pale shanks and had apparent malabsorption of certain nutrients. One chick source also had a statistically lower pigmentation score than the other.
Unbiased quantification of the microdissected human Scarpa's ganglion neurons.

Objective: The objective of the present study was to obtain unbiased estimates of the total number of Scarpa's vestibular ganglion neurons in individuals with normal vestibular function. Study Design: Application of unbiased stereology using microdissected human temporal bone specimens. Methods: Postmortem temporal bones were obtained from five young subjects with no history of audiovestibular disease (age range 42–49 years). The vestibular nerve containing the Scarpa's ganglion was microdissected, embedded in paraffin, and cut into 40 μm serial sections. Unbiased estimates of the total number of neurons were obtained using the optical fractionator technique of stereology. Results: An average of 23,599 (coefficient of variation [CV] = 0.11) vestibular ganglion neurons was obtained. There was no significant difference between the results obtained from the microdissected specimens and results that had been obtained from an age-matched group derived from a previously published report from our laboratory using archival human temporal bone specimens. Conclusions: This study represents the first report to demonstrate the combination of the microdissection technique and the unbiased stereologic technique in the human temporal bone. This study demonstrates the reliability of the microdissection technique as an alternative method of human temporal bone processing for unbiased stereology. The utility of the microdissection technique is that specimens can be used for quantification, immunohistochemistry, and other powerful applications.
Adaptive and Nonadaptive Help Seeking With Peer Harassment: An Integrative Perspective of Coping and Self-Regulation

When harassed by peers, elementary school students often face a dilemma of whether to ask their teacher for help. Assistance may be useful, and perhaps necessary. However, there can be social costs; children generally are expected to resolve interpersonal conflicts on their own. Two theoretical perspectives (i.e., coping and self-regulation) provide a framework for conceptualizing adaptive help seeking as a strategy for dealing with peer harassment. A key feature of the strategy is the student's recognition that help is necessary to maintain safety. This article reviews research that supports this conceptualization. Studies focusing on students' perceptions of harassment and judgments about the necessity for help are integrated with developmental research on peer conflict and aggression. Adaptive help seeking is contrasted with two nonadaptive responses to harassment (i.e., seeking help when it is unnecessary and failure to seek help when it is necessary), developmental implications are discussed, and dir...
Cell solute composition and potassium effects in slices of the rectal gland of the dogfish shark ( Squalus acanthias )

Cell solute composition and apparent intracellular ionic concentrations (subscript i) were determined in rectal gland slices of the dogfish shark (Squalus acanthias). On aerobic incubation in elasmobranch Ringer's at 15 degrees C, the steady state values were: Ki+, 151 mM, close to its apparent electrochemical equilibrium; Cai2+, 1.7 mM; Mgi2+, 7.5 mM; Cl1-, 97 mM (maintained against its electrochemical potential gradient); the sum (Nai+ + Ki+) was about 66 meq/kg cell water lower than in the medium. Of free amino acids, only the effectively impermeable anionic taurine (32 mM) and glutamate (3.7 mM) significantly contribute to the Donnan system. Variations of the Ringer's K+ concentrations, or the presence of 0.5 mM ouabain, demonstrated the permeability of the cell membrane to na+, K+, and Cl-. Cell volume changes: 0.5 mM ouabain produced a gradual swelling and ionic changes consistent with an inhibition of the sodium pump. In high-K+ media the cells swelled massively and the membrane depolarized. A linear relationship between cell volume changes and the Nernst potential for K+ was found. These properties are consistent with a pump-and-leak system for cell volume maintenance. The K+ -induced cell swelling was found to be reversible on transfer of the tissue to regular Ringer's. The extrusion of cell water was associated with an influx of Na+ into, and an efflux of K+ from, the cells (both fluxes down-hill), as well as extrusion of Cl- against its concentration gradient.2+
Intense slow positron production at the 15 MeV LINAC at Argonne National Laboratory

Abstract An intense slow positron beam using a 15 MeV LINAC (average current 1.25 × 10 15 e − /s) at the Radiation and Photochemistry Group, Chemistry Division of Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) has been proposed and studied. Computer simulated results optimizing the positron yield and distribution of energy and angle show that a slow positron production at 10 10 e + /s is possible. A proposed design of an intense slow positron beam with optimal conditions of incident electron, converter/moderator configurations, and extraction/transportation is presented.
Interobserver reliability of fetal heart rate pattern interpretation using NICHD definitions.

Objective To evaluate the interobserver reliability of fetal heart rate (FHR) pattern definition and interpretation assessed by physicians at various levels of training using standard Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) definitions and standard principles of interpretation. Study Design We conducted an interrater reliability study of the intrapartum FHR tracings of 32 singleton term pregnancies at Los Angeles County–University of Southern California (LAC + USC) Medical Center. Analysis included the 5 hours immediately preceding delivery, divided into 10- minute segments. A medical student, resident, and three attending physicians evaluated the same set of FHR tracings. Interobserver agreement was assessed using the free-marginal kappa coefficient. Results Reviewers demonstrated substantial to excellent agreement on baseline rate (κ = 0.97), moderate variability (κ = 0.80), accelerations (κ = 0.62), decelerations (κ = 0.63), category (κ = 0.68), and the ability to identify the presence of either moderate variability or accelerations (κ = 0.82). Conclusions Interobserver agreement was significantly higher on all components of FHR definition and interpretation than previously expected. Standardization of FHR definitions and interpretation may improve interobserver reliability and patient safety.
Nanosensing at the single cell level

This article presents an overview of the development, operation, and applications of optical nanobiosensors for use in in vivo detection of biotargets in individual living cells. The nanobiosensors are equipped with immobilized bioreceptor probes (e.g., antibodies, enzyme substrate) selective to specific molecular targets. Laser excitation is transmitted into the fiber producing an evanescent field at the tip of the fiber in order to excite target molecules bound to the bioreceptors immobilized at the fiber tips. A photometric system detects the optical signal (e.g., fluorescence) originated from the analyte molecules or from the analyte–bioreceptor reaction. Examples of detection of biospecies and molecular signaling pathways of apoptosis in a living cell are discussed to illustrate the potential of the nanobiosensor technology for single cell analysis.
Analysis of Gravity Sliding and Orogenic Translation

Gravity sliding, major thrusting, and the displacement of large crustal plates are accomplished because strata with the lowest viscosity in a rock sequence readily deform by simple (rectilinear) shear flow when subjected to loading. These deforming strata are called decollement zones. Strata above these zones are transported without being deformed, provided their viscosity is one or more orders of magnitude larger than that of the decollement zone. Shear stresses acting at the base of these strata, that is, “basal drag,” are commonly much lower than stresses accompanying friction across a sole fault ( compare with Hubbert and Rubey, 1959). Thus, shear flow in decollement zones most likely represents the operative mechanism in natural settings. The speed of gravity sliding and the ease of tectonic transport increase with increasing decollement zone thickness, dip, and depth of burial, and decrease with increasing decollement zone viscosity. End effects, including (in two dimensions) updip attachment of gravity slides and frontal buttressing of both slides and tectonic plates, are as important as basal drag in determining the speed of slides and the resistance to transport of crustal plates. Structures in the strata above a decollement zone develop independently of those within the zone. In the upper plate, pull-apart grabens form to overcome updip attachment; step thrusts and folds form to overcome frontal buttressing. Structures within decollement zones are proposed to include intensely developed passive disharmonic folds, bedding plane faults at contacts between high and low viscosity strata and through high viscosity masses within the zone, chaotic zones comprised of blocks of high viscosity strata, infolds of adjacent high viscosity strata, and penetrative cleavage, phylonitization, and other features of deformation-induced recrystallization. Velocity profiles for simple shear portray the general mode of deformation and permit study of transport in specific geologic settings. Composite velocity profiles are constructed by first drawing individual profiles for each rock in the sequence under study. Segments from these curves proportional to the thickness of each succeeding stratum are then spliced together from the bottom up.
Two-photon photodissociation of H2O via the B̃ state

The H2O B←X system has been excited by using 266 nm two-photon absorption, and H-atom products have been probed by using high-n Rydberg time-of-flight spectroscopy. The B/X conical intersection results in the efficient transfer of flux from B to X, with dissociation occurring mainly on X . Though the OH(X2Π) product is highly rotationally excited, this bias is less than that observed at higher energies. The OH(A2Σ+)/OH(X2Π) branching ratio is <0.1%, which is significantly smaller than branching ratios obtained at higher excitation energies, and two orders of magnitude less than predicted by theory.
The “certification” paradigm

Can higher education benefit by honoring excellent teachers through certification? The positives and negatives are explored.
Estimating Price Elasticities with Theory-Based Priors:

The authors show how price elasticity estimates can be improved in demand systems that involve multiple brands and stores. They treat these demand models in a hierarchical Bayesian framework. Unlik...
Dreaming has content and meaning not just form

The biological theories of dreaming provide no explanation for the transduction from neuronal discharge to dreaming or waking consciousness. They cannot account for the variability in dream content between individuals or within individuals. Mind-brain isomorphism is poorly supported, as is dreaming's link to REM sleep. Biological theories of dreaming do not provide a function for dreaming nor a meaning for dreams. Evolutionary views of dreaming do not relate dream content to the current concerns of the dreamer and using the nightmare as the paradigm dream minimizes the impact of poor sleep on adaptations.[Hobson et al.; Nielsen; Revonsuo; Solms]
Lead Isotopes as Age-sensitive Genetic Markers in Hydrocarbons. 3. Leaded Gasoline, 1923-1990 (ALAS Model)

The anthropogenic lead archaeostratigraphy (ALAS) model) uses measured lead isotope ratios of documented gasoline releases as preserved in a variety of matrices (product, soils, water)to accurately estimate the year of the release. ALAS is unique in that it is the only model for which historical data (i.e., U.S. lead production figures) are available that allow the nature of the calibration curve to be modeled and calculated for time intervals where calibration samples are scarce (pre-1960). Independent modeling of the data also allows one to evaluate the assumption that lead isotope ratios (e.g., 206Pb/207Pb) of gasoline additives, such as tetraethyllead, closely followed those of average annual U.S. industrial lead. By integrating U.S. lead production figures with lead isotope ratios of domestic, foreign, and recycled sources, 206Pb/207Pb ratios of average annual U.S. industrial have been calculated from the year lead additives were first introduced, 1923, through 1990, which for practical purposes marks the end of the leaded gasoline era. The calculated 206Pb/207Pb ratios are in excellent agreement with those of ALAS model calibration samples between 1923 and 1990 (R2 = 0.945). The results indicate that the production of alkylleads by firms such as Ethyl and DuPont relied on lead purchased from that available on the U.S. market rather than sources that were nonrepresentative of that market. In addition to the ALAS models utility in estimating the year of gasoline releases, temporal fluctuations and trends observed in the model between 1923 and 1990 provide a series of chronostratigraphic markers, which can be related to variations in U.S. industrial lead sources and, in some instances, historic events during the 20th century.