cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Subretinales Granulom, retinale Vaskulitis und Keratouveitis mit sekundärem Offenwinkelglaukom bei Schistosomiasis

Hintergrund. In Afrika und Asien sind mehr als 250 Mio. Menschen an Schistosomiasis erkrankt, aber Augenmanifestationen in Deutschland sind eine Raritat. Patient und Verlauf. Es wird ein 32-jahriger Patient aus Gambia vorgestellt, der seit 3 Jahren in Deutschland lebt und uber schmerzhafte persistierende Diarrhoen, Fieber und eine Visusverminderung R>L klagt. Bei Aufnahme gab der Patient an, dass er 1994 eine in Gambia mittels Hauttest diagnostizierte Schistosomiasis mit Praziquantel nur anbehandelt hatte. Der Visus war OD –0,75 sph 0,8, OS sc 1,0, Tensio OD 31, und OS 18 mmHg. Biomikroskopie: R>L speckige retrokorneale Prazipitate, besonders in der unteren Zirkumferenz, grose Entzundungszellen und Tyndall++, Glaskorper mit grosen Entzundungszellen, Fundus: OD bei 11 h peripher groses subretinales Granulom. Auser einem erhohten Serumlysozym [22,2 mg/l (ref. 10–17 mg/l)] und einer Syphilis im Stadium II–III (TPHA 1:5.000, VDRL neg.) bestand ein im Enzymimmunoassay nachgewiesener IgG-Antikorpertiter gegen Schistosoma mansoni von >30 μg/ml. Aus Urin oder Stuhl gelang kein direkter Erregernachweis. Der spezifischen Bilharziosetherapie entzog sich der Patient wegen der durch die Kortikosteroide erzielten Beschwerdefreiheit und der Angst vor den Therapienebenwirkungen von Praziquantel (Abdominalschmerzen) erneut. Schlussfolgerungen. Bei Patienten mit subretinalen Granulomen als Entzundungsschwerpunkt, die eine schmerzhafte persistierende Diarrho angeben, muss – auch wenn sie bereits jahrelang in Mitteleuropa leben · an eine Schistosomiasis als eine der haufigsten Tropenerkrankungen gedacht werden. Obwohl hier wegen des fehlenden Zwischenwirtes ein Endemiegebiet nicht entstehen kann, ist die beaufsichtigte kurative Therapie zur Verhinderung von Spatfolgen chronisch-entzundlicher Organmanifestationen indiziert.
Urinary Cadmium Levels in the U.S. Working Population, 1988–1994

Few studies have estimated the prevalence and mean urinary cadmium levels in U.S. workers and the factors associated with high cadmium exposure. In this study, urinary cadmium measurements were obtained on 11,228 U.S. workers aged 18 to 64 years who participated in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988–1994). Urinary cadmium levels ranged from 0.01 to 15.57 μg/L, with a geometric mean of 0.30 μg/L (0.28 μg/g creatinine) for all U.S. workers. The prevalence of urinary cadmium levels ≥5 μg/L was 0.42% (551,000) for U.S. workers aged 18 to 64 years. Among U.S. workers in the metal industry (two-digit Standard Industrial Classification or SIC codes 33 and 34), the geometric mean urinary cadmium level was 0.48 μg/L (0.39 μg/g creatinine), and 0.45% of these workers had urinary cadmium levels ≥10 μg/L. The prevalence of urinary cadmium levels ≥15 μg/L was 0.0028% (3,907). The agriculture industry (two-digit SIC codes 01, 02, and 07–09) was associated with low urinary cadmi...
Purification and Immunohistochemical Localization of Relaxin in the Human Term Placenta

Relaxin was purified from human term placentas. A fraction having a molecular weight of approximately 6000 and a specific activity of 11.9 U/mg was eluted from a Bio-Gel P-30 column. This fraction inhibited uterine contractions and produced a linear response to log doses of relaxin in the mouse interpubic ligament bioassay. Electrofocusing of the active Bio-Gel P-30 fraction separated a protein peak with a biological activity of 45 U/mg protein and an isoelectric point of pH 11.4. The electrofocused human relaxin fraction showed cross-reactivity with antiserum produced against highly purified porcine relaxin and formed a single precipitin line with no spurring when compared to purified porcine relaxin in double immunodiffusion assays. Human relaxin was inactivated by the reducing agent dithiothreitol, indicating that disulfide bonds are essential to the biological activity of human placental relaxin. Immunohisto-chemistry demonstrated that relaxin was located in cells of the basal plate and septae of the ...
Elimination of vasopressin analgesia following lesions placed in the rat hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus

Pain thresholds are increased following central administration of arginine vasopressin (AVP), an effect which appears not to be mediated through opioid analgesic processes. In addition to magnocellular projections to the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland and parvocellular projections to the zona externa of the median eminence, the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus contains VP parvocellular neurons which also project to extrahypothalamic structures involved in pain inhibition. The present study examined whether AVP analgesia as measured by the tail-flick test was altered in animals with lesions placed in the PVN at either 7 or 35 days after surgery. VP levels in the pons-medulla and the lumbo-sacral spinal cord were measured by radioimmunoassay, as well as VP-like immunoreactivity in the PVN and spinal cord with immunocytochemistry. Lesions placed in the PVN eliminated AVP analgesia on the tail-flick test at both 7 and 35 days after surgery, and decreased radioimmunoassayable VP by 59% in the lumbo-sacral spinal cord and 36% in the pons-medulla. The extent of the lesions ranged from complete destruction of the PVN to partial sparing of ventro-medial PVN cells with VP-like immunoreactivity. These data indicate that the PVN is a critical structure for the integrity of AVP analgesia.
Operative treatment for fifthmetatarsal base fractures

Abstract Successful surgical treatment of proximal fifth metatarsal fractures depends on an understanding of different fracturepatterns and their potential for healing. Simple auvlsion fractures of the tuberosity heal uneventfully with symptomatic treatment. Certain transverse fractures of the metaphyseal-diaphyseal region have a higher incidence of delayed union and nonunion. These fractures heal more predictably and quickly with early surgical intervention. Use of a intramedullary screw or corticocancellous bone graft has been proven successful in accomplishing union in displaced intra-articular fractures, delayed unions, and nonunions. Acute Jones fractures and Torg type I fractures may heal with closed methods, but surgical intervention increases the rate of union, speeds recovery time, and is indicated in athletes or other physically competative persons. Complications may be lessened by strict adherence to surgical technique and the use of appropriate implants.
Fusion of intracellular membrane pools with cell surfaces of macrophages stimulated by phorbol esters and calcium ionophores

Mouse tumor macrophages (J774) exposed to phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) exhibited a marked increase in cell spreading. Correlated with this phenomenon was an increase in the number of cell surface transferrin (Tf) receptors and a corresponding decrease in the number of Tf receptors located intracellularly in membrane-bound endosomes. Similar effects were noted when J774 cells were exposed to the calcium ionophore A23187. Rabbit alveolar macrophages did not respond to PMA but did respond to A23187 by increasing cell spreading, which was accompanied by increases on the cell surface of four different receptors. These results demonstrate that phorbol esters and calcium ionophores can induce a redistribution of cellular receptors.
The Infra-Red Refractive Index and Dispersion of Evaporated Stibnite Films

This paper describes two determinations which have been made of the refractive index at a wave-length of 10μ of a film of antimony trisulfide prepared by evaporation at a pressure of 10−4 mm of mercury. The first determination was made from transmission measurements of an antimony trisulfide film on a plate of silver chloride. The resulting index value was 2.43 at 10μ. The second determination was made from a dispersion curve which was extrapolated to a point in the visible spectrum where the index was obtained from a measurement of Brewster’s angle. The dispersion curve was obtained from the values of the wave-lengths of maximum and minimum transmission of an antimony trisulfide film of optical thickness four waves at 632 mµ which had been prepared on a plate of sodium chloride. The resulting index value was 2.5 at a wave-length of 10μ.
Social Recovery, Social Capital, and Drug Courts

Drug courts were established for criminal offenders whose primary offense is related to drug use. As an alternative to incarceration, the drug court incorporates drug treatment with close judicial supervision. A team approach includes the judge, public defender, case workers and/or treatment providers, and a coordinator. Traditional drug court treatment programs offer therapeutic approaches that include mandatory counseling, 12-step (self-help) group meetings, attendance at regular court sessions, random drug testing, and, in some cases, life skills training (Nolan 2003). Some drug courts place particular emphasis on furthering participants' education and their job skills. In these examples, employment and education are seen as important treatment outcomes (Leukefield 2007; Deschenes 2009). Adding services to drug court programs such as employment and educational resources and increasing the number of residential treatment beds also improves retention rates for participation and helps contain recidivism r...
Residual Motor Control and Cortical Representations of Function Following Hemispherectomy: Effects of Etiology

Fifteen posthemispherectomy children were examined to assess residual motor function of the paretic side using the 74-point Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Motor Recovery scale. The degree of residual motor control differed for upper and lower extremities, with hand function being most severely impaired. Posthemispherectomy motor outcomes also differed as a function of etiology: cortical dysplasia, perinatal infarct, and Rasmussen's encephalitis. Children whose intractable seizures resulted from perinatal middle cerebral artery stroke demonstrated the most spared motor function. To detect cortical areas that represented motor control of the hemiparetic side, we focused on voluntary control of the affected lower extremity. Seven of our patients were able to carry out a foot dorsiflexion paradigm during functional magnetic resonance imaging, and these results were compared with activations found in normal controls. All children showed activations in the sensorimotor network ipsilateral to the affected side. The perinatal infarct group demonstrated greater activity in the cingulate cortex, whereas the Rasmussen's encephalitis group had significant activations in the insula, suggesting etiology-specific differences in reorganization. These findings are discussed in the framework of our understanding of mechanisms of cortical plasticity in the injured brain and its relevance to neurologic rehabilitation. We suggest that imaging techniques are important tools in identifying cortical regions underlying functional reorganization. Furthermore, detection of such areas might become a basis for specific training promoting the optimal reorganization of cortical networks to enhance motor control.
EFFECT OF ALTERATIONS IN EXTRACELLULAR pH ON ELECTRO-PHYSIOLOGIC PROPERTIES OF PUPPY MYOCARDIUM

The basis for cardiac arrhythmias observed in the pediatric patient with arterial acidosis remains undetermined. To elucidate possible arrhythmogenic mechanism, we used standard microelectrode techniques to monitor electrophysiologic characteristic, of isolated preparation, of puppy (3-6 day. old) and adult dog Purkinje fibers (PF) and ventricular muscle (VM) superfused in Tyrodes solution at 37°C and stimulated at a cycle length of 630-800 msec. Preparations were exposed to sequential changes in extracellular pH by altering external NaHCO3 concentration while maintaining isoosnolarity. Measurements were made on sustained impalements of PF and VM fibers at normal pH (7.35-7.45), after 1 hr. equilibration in altered pH, and again in normal pH. At pH 6.75-7.0, PF resting membrane potential (RMP) and action potential amplitude (APA) increased slightly while dV/dt was unchanged; action potential duration (APD) at 70% and 100% repolarization prolonged significantly. These changes were reversible in normal pH. In contrast, puppy VM showed much less change in APD. At pH 7.6-7.7 there were no significant electrical changes. In spontaneously beating PF automaticity decreased in low pH, and increased slightly in high pH. APD lengthening (70% and 100%) also occurred in adult dog PF but was not as prominent. Our data suggest that acidosis alone does not initiate cardiac arrhythmias observed clinically at a low pll.
Magnetic susceptibilities of sodium-thallium alloys

Abstract Magnetic susceptibilities have been determined by the Faraday method for alloys throughout the composition range of the sodium-thallium system. Results are consistent with the published phase diagram. Negligible temperature dependence is indicated for the susceptibilities of the intermediate phases Na 2 Tl, NaTl, and NaTl 2 , but a Curie-Weiss temperature dependence was found for Na ~6 Tl with an effective number of 0.63 ± 0.02 Bohr magnetons per thallium atom. The magnetic behavior of Na ~6 Tl and Na 2 Tl appears, in both cases, to be consistent with available crystallographic information.
Spontaneous Reattachment of the Retina Despite Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy

In six cases of spontaneous retinal reattachment despite severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy, the retina was initially attached after a buckling procedure or vitreous surgery for proliferative vitreoretinopathy. However, each retina suddenly detached several weeks later. Surprisingly, the retinas settled slowly during the following weeks without further treatment. One case was marked by repeated episodes of detachment and reattachment. In none of the cases could an open retinal break be detected. In certain cases of proliferative vitreoretinopathy in which no open break is apparent and the detachment appears to be tractional, an observation period of several weeks may allow the retina to reattach spontaneously without further surgery.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Practices for Bridging to Lung Transplantation in North America: A Multi-Center Survey

s S247 University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA; 2Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA; 3Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA; 4Cardiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA. Purpose: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has been associated with higher mortality rates in the female population. The aim of this study was to evaluate gender-specific outcomes with the use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) as circulatory support in patients with AMI complicated by profound cardiogenic shock (CS). Methods: This retrospective review included 41 patients (32 men, 9 women) supported on veno-arterial (VA) ECMO for AMI-induced CS in a single center between July 2003 and April 2013. Comparisons were performed between males and females groups regarding demographics, risk factors for coronary artery disease, revascularization, support strategies , complications, and outcomes. Results: There were no differences in age or risk factors for coronary artery disease among the groups. Men had a higher use of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) during admission (96.9% vs. 66.7%, p= 0.03) but similar rates of CPR (37.5% vs. 33.3%, p= 1.00) and PCI (78.1% vs. 55.5%, p= 0.22). There were no differences in mean lactate, troponin, and liver transaminases among the groups prior to ECMO implantation (p= 0.38, p= 0.31, p= 0.15, p= 0.38). Complication rates including renal failure necessitating dialysis, sepsis, pneumonia, cerebrovascular accidents, and ischemia requiring fasciotomy or amputation were comparable among both groups, but females were more likely to suffer bleeding complications (66.7% vs. 25.0%, p= 0.04). The average time of ECMO support was 88 h (SD 78h), with no difference between groups (p= 0.23). Females showed overall lower survival to discharge (11.1% vs. 53.1%, p= 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed association of only female sex with in-hospital mortality with HR 2.86 (1.16-7.14, 95%CI, p= 0.02). Conclusion: In this single center experience ,women requiring ECMO support for AMI-CS present a significantly higher mortality risk than men.
Looking Fair or Being Fair: Remedial Voice Procedures in Nonunion Workplaces

We analyze the correlates and characteristics of grievance procedures covering nonunion employees in 19.5 private firms. These remedial voice procedures tend to exist in larger and completely nonunion firms that place a high value on their human resources. Although these procedures guarantee employees the right to file grievances and contain considerable procedural formality, most of them give management the lion S share of process control and decision control over employee complaints.
PHOTOAFFINITY LABELLING OF MSH RECEPTORS ON ANOLIS MELANOPHORES: IRRADIATION TECHNIQUE AND MSH PHOTOLABELS FOR IRREVERSIBLE STIMULATION

Excised dorsal skin of Anolis carolinensis was exposed to high intensity UV-irradiation in the presence of different photoreactive alpha-MSH derivatives. The resulting covalent binding of the hormone to its receptor induced irreversible pigment dispersion. The duration of the longlasting response depended on the type and length of irradiation; it was maximal after two 5 min irradiation phases with a light intensity of approximately 180 mW/cm2 and a spectrum from 310 to 550 nm, fresh hormone being added after the first phase. [N alpha-(4-Azidophenylacetyl-serine1]-alpha-MSH (I), [2'-(2-nitro-4-azidophenylsulphenyl)-tryptophan9]-alpha-MSH (II) and [p-azidophenylalanine13]-alpha-MSH (III) all inserted into the receptor to about the same extent, as judged from the persistence of the longlasting signal. In contrast, [D-alanine1, p-azidophenylalanine2, norvaline4]-alpha-MSH (IV) and [N alpha-(4-azidophenylacetyl)-serine1, leucine9]-alpha-MSH (V) gave much less insertion and [leucine9, p-azidophenylalanine13]-alpha-MSH (VI) hardly any insertion when applied in the same relative excess (5-fold the concentration inducing a maximal response). Covalent attachment of the cleavable photolabel [N alpha-(4-azidophenyl)-1, 3'-dithio-propionyl-serine1]-alpha-MSH (VII) and subsequent washing of the skin in buffer containing 1% beta-mercaptoethanol released the peptide from the receptor. Insertion of the C-terminal photolabel [p-azidophenylalanine13]-alpha-MSH was reduced by the weak antagonist H-Phe-Ala-Trp-Gly-Gly-Pro-Val-NH2. These experiments prove that hormone receptors can be covalently labelled in tissue with very limited light transparency.
Laser Heat Treatment of Cast Irons—Optimization of Process Variables, Part II

ASTM class 40 gray and 80-55-06 ductile cast irons were surface heat-treated by a 1.2-kW, CO2 laser to study the effects of square and oscillating-gaussian beam modes on case depth, coverage rate, distortion, hardness, and microstructure. The results were compared with that of ring and gaussian beam modes, which were described in Part I. Square and oscillating beams maximized case depth and coverage rate, while ring and gaussian beams minimized distortion. Hardness and microstructure of heat-treated layers were unaffected by the beam mode. For given laser parameters, ductile iron always exhibited larger case depth and coverage rate than gray iron because of the lower thermal diffusivity. Experimental data and theoretical models indicated that thermal response of a material to laser power cannot be described by a simple function as given by heat conduction models and that the best correlating factor for case depth is P/V (P is laser power, V is scan rate).
Improved lower bounds for multicovering codes

The m-covering radius of a code is a generalization of the covering radius of a code. It is the smallest t such that every m-tuple of vectors is contained in a ball of Hamming radius t centered at some codeword. We derive new lower bounds for the size of the smallest code that has a given length and m-covering radius.
Health care experiences of U.S. Retirees living in Mexico and Panama: a qualitative study

Background Retirement migration from northern countries to southern countries is increasing in both Europe and North America, and retiree experiences will impact future migration and health services utilization. We therefore sought to describe the healthcare experiences and perceptions of retired U.S. citizens currently living in Mexico and Panama.
Time-resolved fluorescence studies of heterotropic ligand binding to cytochrome P450 3A4

Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) is a major enzymatic determinant of drug and xenobiotic metabolism that demonstrates remarkable substrate diversity and complex kinetic properties. The complex kinetics may result, in some cases, from multiple binding of ligands within the large active site or from an effector molecule acting at a distal allosteric site. Here, the fluorescent probe TNS (2-p-toluidinylnaphthalene-6-sulfonic acid) was characterized as an active site fluorescent ligand. UV−vis difference spectroscopy revealed a TNS-induced low-spin heme absorbance spectrum with an apparent Kd of 25.4 ± 2 μM. Catalytic turnover using 7-benzyloxyquinoline (7-BQ) as a substrate demonstrated TNS-dependent inhibition with an IC50 of 9.9 ± 0.1 μM. These results suggest that TNS binds in the CYP3A4 active site. The steady-state fluorescence of TNS increased upon binding to CYP3A4, and fluorescence titrations yielded a Kd of 22.8 ± 1 μM. Time-resolved frequency-domain measurement of TNS fluorescence lifetimes indicates a...
Description of EPA SITE Demonstration of the HAZCON Stabilization Process at the Douglassville, Pennsylvania Superfund Site

One technology field tested under the SITE research program was the HAZCON stabilization/solidification process. This process treats the waste by mixing it with portland cement, water (if needed) and Chloranan, a proprietary chemical. By comparing the chemical and physical properties of the waste before and after treatment, this field demonstration developed data on the strength and leaching potential expected from a range of waste characteristics after stabilization. Six wastes at the Douglassville, Pennsylvania Superfund site, containing up to 25 percent organics and 2 percent lead, were treated and evaluated. The physical strength (200 to 1500 psi) and durability, i.e., long-term stability, of the stabilized samples were good. Even in wastes with high levels of organics (25 percent), stabilization of lead was very successful. Leaching results determined that lead concentrations dropped by factors between 100 and 1000 after treatment. Stabilization of organics, however, achieved mixed results. Leachate ...
Abstract 1130: Antitumor activity of a pyrrole-imidazole polyamide in three tumor xenograft models.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Background: Pyrrole-imidazole polyamides are synthetic minor groove binders with modular sequence recognition. We developed a polyamide that targets the DNA sequence 5’-WGWWCW-3’ (W=A/T). This molecule is cytotoxic in a number of cancer cell lines including LNCaP (prostate cancer), DU145 (prostate cancer), and A549 (lung cancer). Data in cell culture suggests that this molecule interferes with RNA polymerase 2 activity resulting in proteasome-mediated degradation of the RNA Polymerase 2 large subunit, activation of p53 and induction of p53 target genes, and apoptosis. This polyamide demonstrates no detectable DNA damage by alkaline comet assay nor does it induce detectable phosphorylation of γH2A.X, ATM, DNA-PKcs, p53, or Chk2. This polyamide circulates in mice after intravenous and subcutaneous injection in saline vehicle. Methods: Male immune compromised mice were implanted with LNCaP, DU145, or A549 tumors. Tumors were allowed to grow until approximately 100 mm3 and then stratified into vehicle (5% DMSO/PBS) and treatment arms (1 mg/kg polyamide, in vehicle). Treatment was administered via subcutaneous injection every three days, for a total of three cycles (LNCaP), eight cycles (DU145), or six cycles (A549). At the experimental endpoint, tumors were resected and weighed immediately. For LNCaP xenografts, serum PSA pre- and post-treatment were also measured. In parallel, a group of immune compromised mice without xenografts were treated with an identical regimen for eight cycles and subsequently observed for three months. Results: Tumors resected from polyamide-treated mice were statistically smaller than those of vehicle-treated mice. The effect was greatest on LNCaP tumors (n=12, Treated (T)/Control (C): 32%, p=1.6E-5). DU145 tumors (n=6, T/C: 34%, p=0.013), and A549 tumors (n=8, T/C: 62%, p=0.047) were also affected. Post-treatment serum PSA in the polyamide-treated mice with LNCaP xenografts were lower than for the vehicle treated mice (p = 0.024). Statistical differences between treated and control groups were determined using two-tailed t-tests. Polyamide treatment resulted in no significant weight loss or observable distress in tumor-free mice and these mice appeared healthy for at least three months after treatment was complete. Conclusions: The polyamide demonstrated in vivo antitumor activity in this panel of tumor xenografts with limited host toxicity. Citation Format: Nicholas G. Nickols, Fei Yang, Benjamin C. Li, Georgi K. Marinov, Jonathan W. Said, Peter B. Dervan. Antitumor activity of a pyrrole-imidazole polyamide in three tumor xenograft models. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1130. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1130
Treatment of cardiomyopathy and rhabdomyolysis in long-chain fat oxidation disorders using an anaplerotic odd-chain triglyceride

The current dietary treatment of long-chain fatty acid oxidation defects (high carbohydrate with medium-even-chain triglycerides and reduced amounts of long-chain fats) fails, in many cases, to prevent cardiomyopathy, rhabdomyolysis, and muscle weakness. We hypothesized that the apparent defect in energy production results from a depletion of the catalytic intermediates of the citric acid cycle via leakage through cell membranes (cataplerosis). We further hypothesized that replacing dietary medium-even-chain fatty acids (precursors of acetyl-CoA) by medium-odd-chain fatty acids (precursors of acetyl-CoA and anaplerotic propionyl-CoA) would restore energy production and improve cardiac and skeletal muscle function. We fed subjects with long-chain defects a controlled diet in which the fat component was switched from medium-even-chain triglycerides to triheptanoin. In three patients with very-long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, this treatment led rapidly to clinical improvement that included the permanent disappearance of chronic cardiomyopathy, rhabdomyolysis, and muscle weakness (for more than 2 years in one child), and of rhabdomyolysis and weakness in the others. There was no evidence of propionyl overload in these patients. The treatment has been well tolerated for up to 26 months and opens new avenues for the management of patients with mitochondrial fat oxidation disorders.
The Influence of the Equatorial QBO on Sudden Stratospheric Warmings

A global primitive-equation model of the stratosphere and mesosphere is integrated for specified planetary-wave forcing at the 100-mb level with mean zonal flow conditions corresponding to the westerly and easterly phases of the equatorial QBO, respectively. The responses in the two QBO phases were compared for integrations with wavenumber-1 forcing-amplitude maxima at 100 mb and 60 deg N varying from 100 to 400 m. The phase of the QBO had little effect on the results in the weak-wave (100-m) cases, which did not produce warmings, and strong-wave (400-m) cases, which produced major sudden warmings.
Assessing Collapse Risk in Evaporite Sinkhole-prone Areas Using Microgravimetry and Radar Interferometry

Geophysical and remote-sensing methods were applied to better understand sinkhole precursor movement and assess the potential for sinkhole development in evaporitic areas. The approach is illustrated with two examples over bedded salt deposits and a salt dome in Texas, USA. Large sinkholes (90 to 200 m in diameter) formed over Permian bedded salt near Wink in western Texas in June 1980 and May 2002, and on the flank of a coastal-plain salt dome in Daisetta in May 2008. Residents, government officials, and industry representatives wish to better understand the potential for sinkhole formation and growth in both areas. At Wink, limited spatial and temporal data on vertical ground movement from standard surveying has been greatly extended by satellite-based radar interferometry, which was used to delineate areas having recent movement and determine rates of movement. Results from interferometry guided site-specific investigations that included acquisition of high-resolution gravity data, which identified shallow-source mass deficits that indicate potential for continued subsidence or sinkhole formation. At Daisetta, interferometry was used to determine that no detectable subsidence preceded sinkhole collapse (indicating sudden collapse once the upward-migrating void reached a depth that allowed the cohesiveness of overlying semiconsolidated sediments to be overcome), and gravimetry was used to identify other areas where shallow mass deficits exist across the salt dome. Data from both areas can be used to construct risk maps, design comprehensive subsurface investigations, and develop monitoring programs based on repeat radar interferometry and geodetic GPS measurements.
Survey of partner notification practices for sexually transmissible infections in the United States

Background Partner notification (PN) for sexually transmissible infections (STIs) is a vital STI control method. The most recent evaluation of PN practices in the United States, conducted in 1999, indicated that few STI patients were offered PN services. The objectives of this study were to obtain a preliminary understanding of the current provision of PN services in HIV/STI testing sites throughout the US and to determine the types of PN services available. Methods: A convenience sample of 300 randomly selected testing sites was contacted to administer a phone survey about PN practices. These sites were from a large database maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sites were eligible to participate if they provided testing services for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV or syphilis and were not hospitals or Planned Parenthood locations. Results: Of the 300 eligible sites called, 79 sites were successfully reached, of which 74 agreed to participate, yielding a response rate of 24.7% and a cooperation rate of 93.7%. Most surveyed testing sites provided some form of PN service (anonymous or non-anonymous) on site or through an affiliate for chlamydia (100%), gonorrhoea (97%), HIV (91%) and syphilis (96%) infection. Anonymous PN services were available at 67–69% of sites. Only 6–9% of sites offered Internet-based PN services. Conclusions: Most surveyed testing sites currently offer some type of PN service for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV or syphilis infection. However, approximately one-third of surveyed sites do not offer anonymous services. Novel, Internet-based methods may be warranted to increase the availability of anonymous services.
Dabigatran Versus Warfarin for Atrial Fibrillation in Real-World Clinical Practice A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background—Trial data for the benefits and risks of dabigatran versus warfarin in the treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation are lacking. We sought to review real-world observational evidence for the comparative effectiveness and safety of these agents. Methods and Results—A systematic search of multiple databases was conducted from first available date to March 10, 2015 for longitudinal, observational studies comparing dabigatran with warfarin. Two reviewers evaluated studies for eligibility and extracted hazard ratios for ischemic stroke and gastrointestinal and intracranial bleeding. hazard ratios were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. Metaregression was performed to assess treatment-effect heterogeneity. We identified 232 unique citations. Seven retrospective cohort studies met study eligibility criteria, with 348 750 patients and a mean follow-up of 2.2 years. In pooled analyses, dabigatran-150 mg was not superior to warfarin in preventing stroke (hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% confidence int...
Attention, Coordination, and Bounded Recall

I consider a exible framework of strategic interactions under incomplete information in which, prior to committing their actions (consumption, production, or investment decisions), agents choose the attention to allocate to an arbitrarily large number of information sources about the primitive events that are responsible for the incompleteness of information (the exogenous fundamentals). The analysis sheds light on what type of payoff¤ interdependencies contribute to inefficiency in the allocation of attention. The results for the case of perfect recall (in which the agents remember the inuence of each source on their posterior beliefs) are compared to those for the case of bounded recall (in which posterior beliefs about the underlying fundamentals are consistent with Bayesian updating, but in which the agents are unable to keep track of the influence of individual sources on their posterior beliefs).
Folic Acid Supplement Prevents Phenytoin-Induced Gingival Hyperplasia

Researchers at the Division of Pediatric Neurology, Neurosciences Centre, New Delhi, India, performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 6-month trial of oral folic acid supplement (0.5 mg/day) in children aged 6-15 years treated with phenytoin for epilepsy.
A machine for static and dynamic triaxial testing

A machine has been developed for studying the static and dynamic triaxial constitutive behavior of large specimens of geologic and construction materials. Test specimens can also contain a cylindrical tunnel cavity to permit study of tunnel-reinforcement structures and rock-structure interaction. The specimens are 0.3 m in diameter and 0.3 to 0.45 m high; the model tunnels can be up to 50 mm in diameter. Static and dynamic triaxial loads can be applied with maximum pressures of 200 MPa in static tests and 100 MPa in dynamic tests. Dynamic loading can also be superimposed on a static preload as large as 20 MPa. To facilitate study of tunnel reinforcement, the tunnel is maintained at ambient pressure, with access at both ends for instrumentation and photography. Example results show the influence on tunnel deformation of loading rate as well as the presence of joints and their orientation. For a given allowable tunnel closure, substantially greater pressures can be sustained under dynamic loading than under static loading, and substantially greater pressures can be sustained by an intact specimen than by a jointed specimen.
Microstructure and Reconstruction of LaAlO3 {100} and {110} Surfaces

©1995 Materials Research Society. The original publication is available at: http://www.mrs.org/
Result and Analysis on Determination of Sulfite in Certain Food of Shandong Province from 2005 to 2006 Year

Objective To find out the contents of sulfite in certain food of Shandong province. Method 252 food samples of 8 kinds were determined from 2005 to 2006 year. Results The residue of sulfur dioxide in the samples were lower and the rate residue in the samples over national standard of China was 7.14%, and the samples over the standard may focus on several specific kinds,and the residue in these samples were higher than those of the standard.Conclusion The results showed that most samples were satisfied. More attention should be payed to the behavior of abuse of food additives.
Work–Family Balance: Challenges and Advances for Families

The importance of understanding work–family issues for both public and private school personnel cannot be understated, as much of what goes on in and around schooling is mandated. Indeed, teachers and administrators do not have a lot of flexibility when it comes to the school day, and everyone who is involved with the school community as a whole is affected by these government regulations, whether they are at the local, state, or federal level.
Segmental Renal Vein Renin Assay and Segmental Nephrectomy for Correction of Renal Hypertension

AbstractSelective segmental renal vein catheterization was used to obtain venous blood samples for renin assay. With this technique a localized source of hypersecretion of renin was identified in 2 patients. Using samples from the main renal veins we found no significant difference in renin activity and, therefore, the etiology of the hypertension in these 2 patients would have been missed. Segmental nephrectomy resulted in a cure of the hypertension in both patients who were followed for a minimum of 14 months.
Virtue and Knowledge

Socrates is said to have held that virtue is knowledge, that no man does evil voluntarily, and that all virtues are one. And in all this he was discussing, saying something relevant to, the question which had been the chief one of philosophy regarding the nature of reality. At least he was laying emphasis, I suppose, upon the importance of discussion, of dialectic and of logos, and upon the view that whoever could give a satisfactory account would have understood. Would have understood what things are, and would have understood the nature of things. The difficulty is to see what the connection is between this and the ideas of virtue, which played such a prominent role. Just as the difficulty is to see just what would be meant by saying that virtue is knowledge, when that were taken as a theory of knowledge and not simply as an explanation of what virtue is.
Joi’s Voice: The Lights Along My Path

My story must begin with the most important mentors in my life: my mother, Sandra Burnette, and my grandmother, Arthenia Burnette. I grew up on a farm in the rural community of Pleasant Grove, North Carolina. My mother was a top student in high school and attended Bennett College for women. She worked for the Southern Bell telephone company, which became BellSouth before she retired. I remember my mother working different hours, sometimes on the weekends, but still making the time to take my siblings and me to school events. She retired from BellSouth in her fifties, and enjoyed traveling until her passing. As I reflect on all of the sacrifices she made for me to succeed, there are not enough words to express how truly grateful I am. She taught me to strive for greatness and to work hard for all of my goals. My grandmother was also an inspiration as she continued to show me the importance of education. She became a Certified a Nursing Assistant in her early seventies as a means to take care of my grandfather after he suffered a stroke. I remember how my mother and grandmother worked hard to support their families and never complained. My opportunities are limitless as a result of the seeds they planted in me.
The Periodic Table of the Elements

Modern atomic theory grew largely out of an attempt to reconcile older “common-sense” concepts—such as the idea of electrons orbiting a nucleus like little moons around a planet—with the data emerging from new high-precision experiments on the emission and absorption of light by various substances. To what extent does Bohr’s new atomic theory provide an adequate theoretical explanation of spectroscopic data? And more generally, what counts as an appropriate theoretical explanation? Must a theory explain why a particular phenomenon occurs? Must it be able to predict new phenomena? Must it provide an organizing principle which connects seemingly disparate phenomena? In the following reading selection, which brings us to the end of Bohr’s 1922 Nobel lecture, Bohr attempts to explain how his new atomic model provides an appropriate theoretical explanation of the observed properties of the known elements. Do you find his arguments convincing? Or is there perhaps a better theoretical explanation for the periodic table of the elements?
Resonant bi-polar DC pulse power supply for electroporation applications

Electroporation is a technique that uses high pulsed electric fields to create pores in biological cell walls for medical, liquid sterilization and other applications. Many systems use mono-polar pulses for simplicity but electro-migration can limit electrode life. The following paper demonstrates a resonant circuit design for creating high voltage bi-polar dc pulses using a simple control strategy. The circuit topology consists of two Radio Frequency (RF) amplifiers each coupled to a multi-level resonant rectifier employing capacitive isolation and operating at 15 MHz. The RF signals generated by the amplifiers themselves are used to control the pulse duration and output polarity. Any sequence of positive and negative pulse trains can be generated between several μs through dc. This paper presents a proof of concept design providing 800 V positive and negative pulses into a resistive load.
Extended-spectrum β-lactamases

Resistance to broad-spectrum cephalosporins among Klebsiella pneumoniae has increased significantly, particularly in the intensive care unit setting, in the past decade. The problem has been noted not only in the United States, but around the world. A major mechanism responsible for this is the emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs). These plasmid-mediated beta-lactamases confer resistance to broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics, including third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins, aztreonam, and extended-spectrum penicillins. Other resistances, such as aminoglycoside and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole resistance, are often cotransferred on the same plasmid. Fluoroquinolone resistance is also frequently associated, resulting in an organism resistant to most broad-spectrum options. The carbapenems are currently considered the drug of choice for these pathogens. Prevention and control measures are important because of the multiresistant nature of these pathogens. Such traditional infection control measures as contact precautions are recommended. In addition, because this type of antimicrobial resistance appears to be particularly influenced by antibiotic use, antibiotic control measures may also be a very important intervention in controlling the spread of ESBLs.
Research Methodology and Approach

While the discussion so far has focused on reviewing the status of relevant previous historical consciousness research and on expanding such research by proposing a concise theory of action consciousness, one of the core objectives of this research project is to also explore knowledge, attitudes, and factors determining their acquisition with specific focus on Aktionsbewusstsein in regard to modern Germany’s dictatorships on an empirical basis. Before discussing the results of the empirical research in detail, the purpose of this chapter is to describe the chosen design, scope, methodology, and questionnaire of the survey and to summarize events that were covered by news outlets during the fieldwork as these might have had an impact on the survey participants’ responses.
Co-Occurrence and Predictors of Three Commonly Occurring Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia: Agitation, Aggression, and Rejection of Care

Objective To investigate co-occurrences of agitation, aggression, and rejection of care in community-dwelling families living with dementia. Methods Cross-sectional, secondary analysis from a randomized controlled trial testing a nonpharmacological intervention to reduce behavioral symptoms. We examined frequency of occurrence of presenting behaviors at baseline and their combination. Omnibus tests compared those exhibiting combinations of behaviors on contributory factors. Multinomial logistic regression analyses examined relationships of contributory factors to combinations of behaviors. Results Of 272 persons with dementia (PwDs), 41 (15%) had agitation alone (Agi), 3 (1%) had aggression alone, 5 (2%) had rejection of care alone. For behavioral combinations, 65 (24%) had agitation and aggression (Agi+Aggr), 35 (13%) had agitation and rejection (Agi+Rej), 1 (0%) had aggression and rejection, and 106 (39%) had all three behaviors (All). Four behavioral subgroups (Agi, Agi+Aggr, Agi+Rej, and All) were examined. Kruskal-Wallis tests showed that there were significant group differences in PwD cognition, functional dependence, and caregiver frustration. PwDs in Agi+Rej and All were more cognitively impaired than those in Agi and Agi+Aggr. Also, caregivers in All were more frustrated than those in Agi. In logistic regression analyses, compared with Agi, greater cognitive impairment was a significant predictor of Agi+Rej and All, but not Agi+Aggr. In contrast, greater caregiver frustration was a significant predictor of Agi+Aggr and All, but not Agi+Rej. Conclusions We found that agitation, aggression, and rejection are common but distinct behaviors. Combinations of these behaviors have different relationships with contributory factors, suggesting the need for targeting treatment approaches to clusters.
Blending engineering content with design thinking and UX to maximize student engagement in a technical communication class

This article provides initial insights from a recent teaching case study of integrating user experience concepts and design thinking techniques into a freshman technical communication course for engineering students at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). The course responds to the technical communication scholarship that calls for increased interdisciplinary pedagogy. The article highlights the intertwined nature of technical communication, design thinking, and user experience (UX), and points to a noticeable gap in using design thinking and UX concepts in technical communication courses. By describing the applications of design thinking, UX, and technical communication, the article makes a case for a meaningful convergence among these disciplines. The article further discusses how the integration of design thinking and UX can enrich technical communication instruction and provide additional opportunities for student engagement. The article concludes with preliminary results from teaching the course.
006 BP: HEALTH RESEARCHER, HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR, COMMUNITY ADVOCATE, GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL, UNINSURED PATIENT AND MORE: REFLECTIONS ON MULTI-SECTORAL COLLABORATION IN QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

New York City (NYC) has experienced various changes in hospital providers over the last several years. In addition, the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (“Obamacare”) has led to changes in the numbers of people without health insurance. This presentation will discuss related aspects of two qualitative research projects on provision of safety-net hospital services – one of a borough in NYC with several private hospitals at risk of closure due to financial difficulties and the other of the NYC public hospital system reduced fee-for-service Options Program for those ineligible for health insurance (predominantly undocumented immigrants). These two projects involved collaboration across sectors (municipal government; health department; community-based non-profit service providers; public hospital system; professional trade organizations; advocacy organizations; academia). Methods of data collection included focus groups, key-informant interviews, and web-based community survey, with varying levels of collaboration in the analytic process. The discussion focuses on how engagement with multiple partners in the research process both provides (1) valuable access and insights, and how a Collective Impact Framework may function as a useful implementation tool, as well as (2) challenges to rigorous study design, validity of findings, and appropriate dissemination.