cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pneumothorax as a Complication of Liposuction.

BACKGROUND Pneumothorax is a rare complication of liposuction resulting from injury to the lung parenchyma. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the incidence of pneumothorax complicating liposuction, describe an archetypal presentation, identify risk factors, and propose options for risk reduction. METHODS In a retrospective chart review, liposuction procedures performed over a 16-year period by 8 surgeons in 1 practice were screened for pneumothorax. Cases featuring pneumothorax were analyzed to ascertain risk factors, presentation, and pathogenesis. RESULTS Among the 16,215 liposuction procedures performed during the study period, 7 pneumothoraxes were identified (0.0432%). Six (85.7%) were female. Three (42.9%) had previous liposuction. Six cases (85.7%) included liposuction of the axillary region. All cases featured depression of intra/postoperative oxygen saturations as the initial sign. Three (42.9%) were identified intraoperatively. All patients were transferred to a hospital for imaging. Five (71.4%) underwent chest tube placement. Two (28.6%) were treated with observation alone. Pneumothoraxes were left-sided in 4 cases (57.1%), and right-sided in 3 cases (42.9%). In early cases, 1.5-mm infiltration cannulas were used; in 2016 cannula size was changed to 3-4 mm for infiltration and 4-5 mm for liposuction. CONCLUSIONS Possible risk factors for pneumothorax include liposuction of the axilla, use of flexible infiltration cannulas, and scarring from previous liposuction. We recommend including pneumothorax as a potential complication during informed consent, performing infiltration with a stiff >3.5-mm cannula, minimizing positive-pressure ventilation, emphasized awareness of cannula tip location in all patients but particularly in patients with previous liposuction or scar tissue, and increased caution when operating in the axillary area. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4
Chromatin accessibility promotes hematopoietic and leukemia stem cell activity

Chromatin organization is a highly orchestrated process that influences gene expression, in part by modulating access of regulatory factors to DNA and nucleosomes. Here, we report that the chromatin accessibility regulator HMGN1, a target of recurrent DNA copy gains in leukemia, controls myeloid differentiation. HMGN1 amplification is associated with increased accessibility, expression, and histone H3K27 acetylation of loci important for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and leukemia, such as HoxA cluster genes. In vivo, HMGN1 overexpression is linked to decreased quiescence and increased HSC activity in bone marrow transplantation. HMGN1 overexpression also cooperates with the AML-ETO9a fusion oncoprotein to impair myeloid differentiation and enhance leukemia stem cell (LSC) activity. Inhibition of histone acetyltransferases CBP/p300 relieves the HMGN1-associated differentiation block. These data nominate factors that modulate chromatin accessibility as regulators of HSCs and LSCs, and suggest that targeting HMGN1 or its downstream effects on histone acetylation could be therapeutically active in AML.
Ioflupane 123I (DAT scan) SPECT identifies dopamine receptor dysfunction early in the disease course in progressive apraxia of speech

To describe 123I-FP-CIT (DAT scan) SPECT findings in progressive apraxia of speech (PAOS) patients and to compare those findings with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal syndrome (CBS). PAOS is a neurodegenerative syndrome in which patients present with apraxia of speech, a motor speech disorder affecting programming and planning of speech. Patients with PAOS predictably develop Parkinsonism. DAT scan is a neuroimaging tool that assesses the integrity of presynaptic dopamine transporters in striatum and is usually abnormal in PSP and CBS. As part of an NIH-funded grant, we performed a DAT scan on 17 PAOS patients early in the disease course. DaTQUANT software was used to quantify uptake in the left and right caudate and anterior/posterior putamen, with striatum to background ratios (SBRs). The PAOS cohort was compared to 15 PSP and 8 CBS patients. Five PAOS patients (29%) showed abnormalities in at least one striatal region on DAT scan. When the five PAOS patients with abnormal DAT were compared to the PSP and CBS patients, the only difference observed was lower uptake in the posterior putamen in PSP (p = 0.03). There were no differences is putamen/caudate ratio or in symmetry of uptake, across all groups. There was also no difference in MDS-UPDRS-III scores between PAOS patients with and without abnormal DAT scans (p = 0.56). Abnormal DAT scan is observed early in the disease course in approximately 30% of PAOS patients, with striatal abnormalities similar to those in PSP and CBS.
Virasoro blocks at large exchange dimension

Abstract In this paper, we analyze Virasoro conformal blocks in the limit when the operator exchange dimension is taking to be large in comparison with the other parameters dependence of the block. We do this by using Zamolodchikov's recursion relations. We found a dramatically simplified solution at leading order in an inverse power expansion in large exchange conformal dimension in terms of a quasi-modular form in an Eisenstein series representation. We compare this solution with existing results obtained previously by using AGT correspondence.
Rates, patterns, and correlates of fitness tracker use among older adults with multiple sclerosis.

Abstract Background Older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) engage in alarmingly low levels of physical activity. Fitness trackers may be a promising approach for promoting and monitoring physical activity among older adults with MS. Objective/Hypothesis This study reports on the rates, patterns of fitness tracker use in adults with MS who are over 60 years of age. We hypothesized that older adults with MS who use fitness trackers “users” would report significantly more physical activity than those who don’t “non-users.” Methods Participants across the United States completed an online survey that included self-reported demographic and clinical characteristics, fitness tracker use questionnaire, and Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) for measuring total and health-promoting physical activity (GLTEQ-HCS). Results Of the 440 participants who completed the full survey, 112 (28%) identified as fitness tracker users. The most common activity monitors were Fitbit®, Smartphone app, Apple® watch, and Garmin®. Fitness tracker users mostly reported having relapsing-remitting MS, less disability (i.e., lower Patient Determined Disability Steps), higher income, and higher rates of employment. There was a statistically significant difference in GLTEQ Total (t(438) = −3.8, p = .001) and GLTEQ-HCS (t(438) = −2.8, p = .006) scores between fitness tracker users and non-users. Self-reported step counts were strongly correlated with both GLTEQ Total (ρ = .50) and GLTEQ-HCS (ρ = 0.54) scores in fitness tracker users. Conclusions Further research is warranted investigating fitness tracker use and interests among older adults with MS and how technology may be applied as a behavioral tool to increase physical activity among this growing portion of the MS population.
Overlap between hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and drug reaction and eosinophilia with systemic symptoms: a review.

Drug reaction and eosinophilia with systemic symptoms (DRESS), also known as drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS), shares features with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), most notably fever, rash, and internal organ involvement. However, there is increasing recognition of drug-induced (secondary) HLH and biopsy-proven hemophagocytosis in DRESS, suggesting that HLH and DRESS not only overlap but also may be diseases on the same spectrum of immune dysfunction. To characterize existing literature on HLH/DRESS overlap, we queried the PubMed/MEDLINE database for 23 cases of HLH-DRESS codiagnosis. Average time-to-onset of rash after exposure to inciting drug was 2.7 weeks. Fourteen cases (61%) clinically worsened despite initial therapy, prompting a workup with diagnosis of HLH on average 2.3 weeks after diagnosing DRESS. Nine cases met HLH diagnostic criteria and had a RegiSCAR score ≥4. Nine cases met one set of criteria with a presentation suggestive of the other. Five cases met neither criteria. A patient presenting with fever, generalized rash, bicytopenia, and internal organ involvement after drug exposure was most predictive of meeting diagnostic criteria for both HLH and DRESS. Treatment was highly variable, although most initiated systemic corticosteroids with/without IVIG, plasmapheresis, or etoposide. Patients with poor outcomes in this review were treated using steroid monotherapy and had viral reactivation. Dermatologists should consider the possibility of HLH in any patient presenting with fever, rash, internal organ involvement, and cytopenia. Additional studies will be necessary to further characterize HLH and DRESS overlap and determine optimal management.
Modeling Research Project Grant Success Rates from NIH Appropriation History: Extension to 2020

Communication of the likelihood that a grant proposal is funded is important for individual researchers and academic institutions. For research project grants (RPGs) funded by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), this is measured by the success rate, the fraction of grants reviewed in a given fiscal year that are funded. In 2016, I posted a relatively simple computational model that allowed estimation of these success rates from historical data of NIH appropriations and associated data, based largely on the fact that commitments to fund NIH grants are typically made over four fiscal years rather than coming from a single fiscal year9s appropriations. Data for appropriations and success rates for fiscal years 2016-2020 are now available, allowing this model to be tested without no adjustable parameters. Over this period, the NIH appropriation increased by 29.7% to $39.313 billion, yet the RPG success rate increased from 0.183 to 0.201, a relative increase of only 9.8%. This difference is accurately reproduced by the model, indicating that the modest changes in success rate despite large appropriation increases reflect the consequences of the funding grants from multiple fiscal years and the response of the biomedical research community in submitting an increased number of proposals. The model can also be extended to estimate the success rates for individual institutes with reasonable accuracy.
Toward a feminist psychological theory of “institutional trauma”:

Public discussions about trauma are circulating exponentially in the wake of global movements against structural violence, and efforts to mainstream “trauma-informed” approaches in mental health, h...
Assessment of periparturient behavior in beef cattle using accelerometers

A large percentage of calf death loss in cow-calf operations occurs during the intrapartum period, with the majority a result of dystocia. The usefulness of commercial activity monitors to detect changes in behavior indicative of impending parturition has not been fully explored. Research objectives included characterization of behavioral indices during the periparturient period in beef cattle and the ability of changes in behavioral indices from baseline to accurately predict impending parturition in individual cows.
The professional goals of early journalism educators in the United States of America

Between the 1860's and the 1930's, journalism education in America, according to the author, was mainly based on two disparate views. Firstly, there were those who believed in an informal apprentic...
Taylor’s Formula

We finally come to the point where we develop a method which allows us to compute the values of the elementary functions like sine, exp, and log. The method is to approximate these functions by polynomials, with an error term which is easily estimated. This error term will be given by an integral, and our first task is to estimate integrals. We then go through the elementary functions systematically, and derive the approximating polynomials.
Time-Varying α and Particle Physics

We argue that models in which an observable variation of the fine structure constant is explained by motion of a cosmic scalar field are not stable under renormalization and require massive fine-tuning that cannot be explained by any known mechanism.
The Spectra of Relativistic Accretion Disks

The influence of general relativistic effects on the continuum spectra of geometrically thin accretion disks surrounding weakly magnetized neutron stars or black holes in compact x-ray sources is considered. Specific attention is focused on the effect of the gravitational redshift and relativistic Doppler shift on the emission spectrum and on the enhancement of the apparent accretion disk area due to gravitational light bending for a range of system inclination angles. It is shown that the effects of general relativity can be significant as compared to the Newtonian model especially for those cases where the inner edge of the accretion disk extends to the innermost stable orbit. As an application of these results we investigate the constraints on the mass transfer rate imposed by the lack of soft x-rays emitted during the quiescent state of the black hole candidate A0620-00.
The Canine Orthopedic Index. Step 2: Psychometric Testing

Objective To perform psychometric testing an owner self-administered questionnaire, the Canine Orthopedic Index (COI), designed to assess outcome in dogs with orthopedic disease. Study Design Original study. Sample Population Owners (n = 20) of dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) for item (question) pretesting, and 80 owners of dogs with OA for reliability and validity testing. Methods Standard methodology for the stepwise development and testing of instruments designed to assess subjective states was followed. Items generated in previous studies were pretested for readability, ambiguity, and inter-item correlations; poorly performing items were removed; and the reduced set of items subjected to factor analysis, reliability, and validity testing. Results Four factors were identified and named on the basis of the items contained in them: “Stiffness,” “Gait,” “Function,” and “Quality of Life.” Cronbach's α ranged from 0.76 to 0.86, suggesting the items in each factor could be assessed as a group to compute factor scores (i.e., stiffness, gait, function, and quality of life scores). The test–retest analysis revealed κ values from 0.68 to 0.80. Overall, the scores amongst the 4 factors correlated moderately well (r = 0.52–0.58), with a mild correlation (r = 0.35) between gait and function scores. Conclusions The COI is a psychometrically sound owner completed instrument that can assess 4 domains in dogs with OA: Stiffness, Gait, Function, and Quality of Life.
A Comparison of Connectivity Metrics on Watersheds and Implications for Water Management

Barriers within streams can affect riverine species' ability to access habitats and may reduce their population viability. Connectivity metrics attempt to quantify the impacts of barriers; however, little is known about their functioning when applied to dendritic habitats such as watersheds. Several graph-theoretic connectivity metrics were calculated on rivers originating in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico. These metrics were classified into two primary groups: metrics that count weighted paths through the stream network and metrics that predict the flow of organisms through a stream reach. Representative metrics from each of these categories were suggested to model the effects of dams and water intakes, respectively. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Milling and Particle Size on Functionality and Physicochemical Properties of Cowpea Flour

ABSTRACT Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata) were milled through 0.5-, 1.0-, and 2.0- mm screens, and the flour was subsequently separated into different particle-size ranges. Such procedures caused only minimal changes in moisture, fat, protein, ash, and total carbohydrate. The amount of extractable starch, however, varied from 34.5 to 52%. The effects of both mill screen and sieve mesh size were significant (P < 0.05). Differences in milling and separation procedures resulted in significant variations in water absorption (0.41–2.81 g of water/g of flour), solids lost (0.34–1.17 g/g of flour), and protein solubility (21.2–37.4%) (P < 0.05). Finely milled flours (91% moisture) had lower initial gelatinization temperatures (70–73°C), as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) (P < 0.01). Gelatinization peaks in high-moisture flour were similar to that of pure starch. At lower moisture, a second peak was observed indicative of protein. Light-scattering analysis showed that different conditions produced ...
High-resolution cavity ring-down spectroscopy measurements of blended H 2 O transitions

We probed four closely spaced rovibrational water vapor absorption transitions near $\tilde{\nu}$ =7100 cm-1 using frequency-stabilized cavity ring-down spectroscopy. Room-temperature spectra were acquired for pure water vapor in the Doppler limit and for mixtures containing ≈6.6 μmol mol-1 of water vapor in N2 at total gas pressures ranging from 6.5 kPa to 53 kPa. By measuring Lamb dips for each transition, we demonstrated a resolution of 50 kHz and determined relative transition frequencies with an uncertainty <0.4 MHz over a 10 GHz range. Pressure-induced broadening, collisional narrowing coefficients of the component transitions and line areas were retrieved by fits of model line shapes to the measured spectra. Standard and advanced models were considered including those which incorporated the combined effects of collisional narrowing and speed-dependent line broadening and line shifting. By measuring water vapor concentration with a transfer standard hygrometer, we determined line intensities in terms of measured line areas with a combined relative uncertainty of 0.6%.
Effects of a Poverty Intervention Policy Demonstration on Parenting and Child Behavior: A Test of the Direction of Effects*

Objectives. This study compares two explanations for the effects of an employment-based anti-poverty intervention, the New Hope project, on parenting and child behavior. (1) Did the New Hope intervention directly affect child behavior and, if it did, is this the result of New Hope effects on earlier parenting practices? (2) Did the New Hope intervention directly affect parenting practices and, if it did, is this the result of New Hope effects on earlier child behavior? Methods. Assessments were collected two and five years after parents were randomly assigned to participate in New Hope or in a control group. The two models were tested using Baron and Kenny's (1986) recommendations for regression to test mediation. Results. The results support the second research question, but only for boys; neither model was supported for girls. New Hope led to increased positive behavior and reduced behavior problems for boys after two years; children's behavior accounted for experimental effects on parents' reports of their parenting behaviors after five years. Conclusions. Employment-based interventions designed for low-income parents can affect children directly; expanding such programs may help improve children's life chances.
Stability and chaos in the υ Andromedae planetary system

The detection of three planets orbiting the star ? Andromedae marks the first discovery of a multiple-planet extrasolar system associated with a main-sequence star (Butler et al. 1999). The unusual arrangement of ? Andromedae's planetary companions immediately raises the question of long-term dynamical stability within the system. Focusing on the two outer planets, we have performed a number of extended numerical integrations that indicate that the system experiences extremely chaotic evolution for all regions of parameter space allowed by the observations. Of the three nominal sets of system parameters (reported by Butler et al. 1999), our integrations show that two of the configurations can be dynamically unstable on timescales shorter than the present age of the star. The third reported configuration (representing the nominal Lick parameters) appears to be quite stable. We conclude that there are significant regions of observationally allowed parameter space in which the outer two planets can remain on noncrossing orbits over the present 2-3 Gyr age of the system. Our results also suggest that the overall inclination for the system is likely to be quite low, and hence the objects responsible for the observed velocity signatures are almost certainly planets (rather than brown dwarfs or small stars). The system tends to favor configurations in which the two outer planets exhibit a significant relative inclination (i ? 15?-20?) between their two orbital planes. Dynamical studies of this type thus provide useful constraints on the observationally indeterminate properties of the system.
Probing the influence of protecting groups on the anomeric equilibrium in sialic acid glycosides with the persistent radical effect.

A method for the investigation of the influence of protecting groups on the anomeric equilibrium in the sialic acid glycosides has been developed on the basis of the equilibration of O-sialyl hydroxylamines by reversible homolytic scission of the glycosidic bond following the dictates of the Fischer–Ingold persistent radical effect. It is found that a trans-fused 4O,5N-oxazolidinone group stabilizes the equatorial glycoside, i.e., reduces the anomeric effect, when compared to the 4O,5N-diacetyl protected systems. This effect is discussed in terms of the powerful electron-withdrawing nature of the oxazolidinone system, which in turn is a function of its strong dipole moment in the mean plane of the pyranose ring system. The new equilibration method displays a small solvent effect and is most pronounced in less polar media consistent with the anomeric effect in general. The unusual (for anomeric radicals) poor kinetic selectivity of anomeric sialyl radicals is discussed in terms of the planar π-type structu...
Glycerolipid synthetic capacity of rat liver peroxisomes.

Investigations on rat liver peroxisomal glycerolipid synthetic capability were performed. Highly purified peroxisomal preparations contained dihydroxyacetone-phosphate acyltransferase, acyldihydroxyacetone-phosphate reductase, and fatty acid-CoA ligase activities. Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase, lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase, phosphatidic acid phosphatase, diacylglycerol acyltransferase, diacylglycerol cholinephosphotransferase, diacylglycerol ethanolaminephosphotransferase and ethanol acyltransferase activities were low in activity or not detected. These results suggest that the peroxisomes are specialized to contribute to the synthesis of ether-linked glycerolipids. If peroxisomes contribute towards the synthesis of non-ether-linked glycerolipids (i.e., ester-linked) then translocation of acyl glycerophosphatide (acyl dihydroxyacetone phosphatide) from peroxisomes to endoplasmic reticulum would be expected to occur.
Mitigating variability of high penetration photovoltaic systems in a community smart microgrid using non-flat photovoltaic modules

Utilization of renewable energy sources continues to gain popularity. However, two major limitations exist that prevent widespread adoption: variability of electricity generated and cost of the equipment needed. Emerging photovoltaic (PV) technologies have enabled the creation of non-flat PV modules. Distributed generation (DG) grid-tied photovoltaic systems using non-flat modules with centralized battery back-up can help mitigate the variability of PV systems with flat modules. Thus it is an attractive system to meet “go green” mandates while also providing reliable electricity. The proposed sizing approach is based on high temporal rate collected insolation data sampled every 10 seconds instead of more commonly used hourly data rate. The methodology presented in this paper employs a techno-economic approach to determine the optimal system design to guarantee reliable electricity supply with lowest investment. The results show that using non-flat PV modules can reduce loss of load probability compare to flat modules while minimizing the capital investment.
Differential effects of sucrose and fructose on dietary obesity in four mouse strains

We examined sugar-induced obesity in mouse strains polymorphic for Tas1r3, a gene that codes for the T1R3 sugar taste receptor. The T1R3 receptor in the FVB and B6 strains has a higher affinity for sugars than that in the AKR and 129P3 strains. In Experiment 1, mice had 40days of access to lab chow plus water, sucrose (10 or 34%), or fructose (10 or 34%) solutions. The strains consumed more of the sucrose than isocaloric fructose solutions. The pattern of strain differences in caloric intake from the 10% sugar solutions was FVB>129P3=B6>AKR; and that from the 34% sugar solutions was FVB>129P3>B6>/=AKR. Despite consuming more sugar calories, the FVB mice resisted obesity altogether. The AKR and 129P3 mice became obese exclusively on the 34% sucrose diet, while the B6 mice did so on the 34% sucrose and 34% fructose diets. In Experiment 2, we compared total caloric intake from diets containing chow versus chow plus 34% sucrose. All strains consumed between 11 and 25% more calories from the sucrose-supplemented diet. In Experiment 3, we compared the oral acceptability of the sucrose and fructose solutions, using lick tests. All strains licked more avidly for the 10% sucrose solutions. The results indicate that in mice (a) Tas1r3 genotype does not predict sugar-induced hyperphagia or obesity; (b) sucrose solutions stimulate higher daily intakes than isocaloric fructose solutions; and (c) susceptibility to sugar-induced obesity varies with strain, sugar concentration and sugar type.
Cocaine dependence treatment on an inpatient detoxification unit

Abstract A psychoanalytic-developmental treatment model includes individual and group psychotherapy which enables compulsive freebase cocaine smokers to articulate explanations for their drug dependence. Relapse prevention education includes recommendations for aftercare treatment. Psychosocial history and DSM-III diagnostic data (N = 31) reveals histories of dysfunctional family dynamics, high rates of depressive disorders, and personality disorders. A case history illustrates application of our treatment model and problems in currently available post-detox treatment. Residential therapeutic communities (TCs) need to offer variable program lengths and specialized crack residences in therapeutic milieus with trained clinical staff. TC programs should offer inpatient psychotherapy, family therapy, and provide direct entrance into program affiliated outpatient services. Recommendations for outpatient services include adjuncts to established anonymous self-help group networks in order to reduce chances of relapse.
Enzymatic Processing of Uracil Glycol, a Major Oxidative Product of DNA Cytosine

A major stable oxidation product of DNA cytosine is uracil glycol (Ug). Because of the potential of Ug to be a strong premutagenic lesion, it is important to assess whether it is a blocking lesion to DNA polymerase as is its structural counterpart, thymine glycol (Tg), and to evaluate its pairing properties. Here, a series of oligonucleotides containing Ug or Tg were prepared and used as templates for a model enzyme, Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I Klenow fragment (exo-). During translesion DNA synthesis, Ug was bypassed more efficiently than Tg in all sequence contexts examined. Furthermore, only dAMP was incorporated opposite template Ug and Tg and the kinetic parameters of incorporation showed that dAMP was inserted opposite Ug more efficiently than opposite Tg. Ug opposite G and A was also recognized and removed in vitro by the E. coli DNA repair glycosylases, endonuclease III (endo III), endonuclease VIII (endo VIII), and formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase. The steady state kinetic parameters indicated that Ug was a better substrate for endo III and formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase than Tg; for endonuclease VIII, however, Tg was a better substrate.
Method for quantitative operant response measurement during inhalation exposure.

Abstract A method for pharmacologic and toxicologic investigation of operant responses during inhalation exposure has been developed. The method was tested with rats. Toluene was utilized as a reference chemical. Toluene has been reported to cause significant increases in response rates of animals responding under operant schedules. A fixed interval schedule (Fl-120 sec) was used. A significant increase in response rate was observed. Thus, the results indicated that the method was reliable and allowed operant schedule data to be obtained. The significance of this method lies in its versatility to allow an integrative study of operant response, inhalation kinetics, and pharmacologic action. Potential practical applications of the method include studies of the actions of drugs and chemicals administered via inhalation exposure.
Parental and environmental factors associated with physical activity among children participating in an active video game.

Purpose Parental and intervention-specific environmental supports were examined as potential reinforcers for physical activity and use of a video game, Dance Dance Revolution (DDR), among a cohort of 7- to 8-year-old children. Methods Sixty children were randomized to an intervention (n = 40) or a control (n = 20) group. Physical activity was measured with accelerometry and DDR logs. Parental support for their child's physical activity was assessed via a questionnaire. DDR-specific environmental supports were captured on an environmental home screen and the DDR log. Results At baseline, the absence of other video games and parent DDR participation was associated with child participation in DDR. At follow-up, DDR participation of siblings and friends was associated with child participation in DDR. Conclusion The primary findings of this study suggest that parental and peer participation in DDR may play a role in children's initial and sustained participation in DDR.
Heterotaxy: associated conditions and hospital-based prevalence in newborns.

Purpose: To provide insight into the possible etiology and prevalence of heterotaxy, we studied conditions associated with heterotaxy in a consecutive hospital population of newborns. Methods: From 1972 to March, 1999 (except February 16, 1972 to December 31, 1978), 58 cases of heterotaxy were ascertained from a cohort of 201,084 births in the ongoing Active Malformation Surveillance Program at the Brigham and Women's Hospital. This registry includes livebirths, stillbirths, and elective abortions. Prevalence among nontransfers (i.e., patients whose mothers had planned delivery at this hospital) was calculated as approximately 1 per 10,000 total births (20 of 201,084). Results: We analyzed a total of 58 patients consisting of 20 (34%) nontransfers and 38 (66%) transfers. Patients were categorized by spleen status as having asplenia (7 nontransfers, 25 total), polysplenia (8, 20), right spleen (4, 11), normal left (0, 1), and unknown (1, 0). Among the 20 nontransfer and 59 total heterotaxy patients, the following associated medical conditions were present: chromosome abnormality (1 nontransfer, 2 total), suspected Mendelian or chromosome microdeletion disorder (1 nontransfer, 6 total), and maternal insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (1 nontransfer, 2 total). There were 6 twins (1 member each from 6 twin pairs including 1 dizygous, 4 monozygous, 1 conjoined; 2 were nontransfers). An associated condition occurred in 5 (25%) nontransfer and 16 (28%) total patients, or among 10 of 53 singleton births (19%). Conclusions: Although most cases of heterotaxy in this series were sporadic events, an associated condition was present in about one-fourth of the cases. Not all of these conditions would be considered causative etiologies. Based on this small series alone, maternal insulin-dependent diabetes cannot be viewed as a risk factor for heterotaxy. However, the specific association of diabetes with polysplenia with/without left atrial isomerism is noteworthy, and adds weight to animal and epidemiologic case-control data.
Rank regression for current-status data: asymptotic normality

Abstract A rank estimator proposed by Aragon and Quiroz (1995) for the linear regression model with current-status data is shown to be n -consistent and asymptotically normal. Monte Carlo simulations investigate the performance of the estimator and the proposed covariance matrix estimator.
Nitrosative stress mediated misfolded protein aggregation mitigated by Na-D-β-hydroxybutyrate intervention.

Abstract Mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, is associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Rotenone, a mitochondrial stressor induces caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation leading proteolytic cleavage of substrate nuclear poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). PARP cleavage is directly related to apoptotic cell death. In this study, we have monitored the aggregation of green-fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged synphilin-1, as a rotenone-induced Parkinsonia-onset biomarker. We report that the innate ketone body, Na- d -β-hydroxybutyrate (NaβHB) reduces markedly the incidence of synphilin-1 aggregation. Furthermore, our data reveal that the metabolic byproduct also prevents rotenone-induced caspase-activated apoptotic cell death in dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells. Together, these results suggest that NaβHB is neuroprotective; it attenuates effects originating from mitochondrial insult and can serve as a scaffold for the design and development of sporadic neuropathies.
Triiodothyronine supplementation for hypothalamic obesity.

Abstract Patients with suprasellar lesions develop profound hypothalamic obesity and listlessness with no effective treatment. We added triiodothyronine (T3) supplementation in 3 such patients and present their response. All had previous nutritional counseling without benefit. All were treated for diabetes insipidus (DI) and hypopituitarism; serum free thyroxine (T4) level was normal. A 24-year-old woman (pineal tumor and astrocytoma) had weight gain (4.7 kg/yr for 3 years), cold intolerance, fatigue, dry skin, and constipation; after T3, she lost 14 kg over 27 months and reported overall improvement. Her bone mineral density also improved. A 10.6-year-old boy (optic glioma) was gaining 6 kg/yr for 4 years; after T3 supplement, he lost 4.3 kg over 11 months. A 12-year-old girl (mixed germ cell tumor) had weight gain (8.3 kg/yr for 3 years) and listlessness; after T3, she lost 8.1 kg over 16 months and had improved alertness. All patients were asymptomatic despite supraphysiologic T3 levels. We suggest that T3 may serve as a simple and effective supplement, which can promote weight loss and improve the well being of these patients with hypothalamic obesity.
An Optical Null Double-Beam Double-Pass Infrared Spectrophotometer

A novel signal treatment for an optical null double-beam double-pass system is developed and used in a vacuum-type prism infrared spectrophotometer. A feature of this instrument is the arrangement of the specially-shaped beam switch and the second chopper working in conjunction with the phase-sensitive rectifier. The beam switch is made so that the lower half of the reference beam and the upper half of the sample beam are sent to the monochromator optics during one half of the cycle; the other parts of reference and sample beams reach the monochromator optics during the other half of the cycle. The second chopper alternately blocks the upper and lower halves of the image formed at the focal point of single-pass beam in proper synchronism with the beam switch. Fairly good cancellation of the scattered radiation was achieved through adjustment of the phase relation between the beam choppers and the phase-sensitive rectification system. In addition to reporting the general design and construction, detailed descriptions of the control and recording systems which provide the unique features are also included.
Image analysis algorithms for the advanced radiographic capability (ARC) grating tilt sensor at the National Ignition Facility

The Advance Radiographic Capability (ARC) at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a laser system designed to produce a sequence of short pulses used to backlight imploding fuel capsules. Laser pulses from a short-pulse oscillator are dispersed in wavelength into long, low-power pulses, injected in the NIF main laser for amplification, and then compressed into high-power pulses before being directed into the NIF target chamber. In the target chamber, the laser pulses hit targets which produce x-rays used to backlight imploding fuel capsules. Compression of the ARC laser pulses is accomplished with a set of precision-surveyed optical gratings mounted inside of vacuum vessels. The tilt of each grating is monitored by a measurement system consisting of a laser diode, camera and crosshair, all mounted in a pedestal outside of the vacuum vessel, and a mirror mounted on the back of a grating inside the vacuum vessel. The crosshair is mounted in front of the camera, and a diffraction pattern is formed when illuminated with the laser diode beam reflected from the mirror. This diffraction pattern contains information related to relative movements between the grating and the pedestal. Image analysis algorithms have been developed to determine the relative movements between the gratings and pedestal. In the paper we elaborate on features in the diffraction pattern, and describe the image analysis algorithms used to monitor grating tilt changes. Experimental results are provided which indicate the high degree of sensitivity provided by the tilt sensor and image analysis algorithms.
Identity of succinate dehydrogenase in chemotrophically and phototrophically grown Rhodospirillum rubrum

The specific succinate dehydrogenase (EC 1.3.99.1 succinate: phenazine methosulfate oxidoreductase) activity of membranes of aerobically grown Rhodospirillum rubrum was found to be 4–7-fold greater than that of membranes from phototrophically grown cells. The enzymes obtained from cells grown under both conditions were compared in crossed immunoelectrophoresis and were shown to have the same electrophoretic mobility and immunological identity. As succinate dehydrogenase activity is associated with chromatophore membrane in phototrophically grown R. rubrum, this study demonstrates the presence of a chromatophore-specific component in aerobic cells. The succinate dehydrogenase activity of Triton extracts of membranes from phototrophic cells was subject to photoinactivation. The succinate dehydrogenase extracted from the membranes from aerobic cells was photoinactivated only if a bacteriochlorophyll a extract was added to the enzyme preparation. As this photopigment-dependent photoinactivation was inhibited by NaN3 or by a N2 atmosphere, it is attributed to the effects of singlet oxygen sensitized by bacteriochlorophyll a.
Nuclear magnetic resonance and electron spin resonance spectroscopic investigations of reversed-phase liquid chromatographic retention mechanisms: stationary phase structure

Abstract Recent studies have demonstrated that stationary phase structure and conformation play important roles in reversed-phase liquid chromatographic (RPLC) behavior. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopic techniques can provide a unique perspective for studying RPLC stationary phases. They not only provide information about the types of molecular dynamics and interactions ongoing at the stationary phase surface, but also about their temporal domains. This paper reviews NMR and ESR spectroscopic studies that have been performed to better understand the structure and mobility of RPLC stationary phases. The effects of ligand morphology, mobile phase composition and temperature on alkyl chain mobility and conformation are discussed. The advantages and limitations of spectroscopic techniques for these types of investigations are also reviewed.
Prokaryotic endosymbionts in the chloroplast stroma of the dinoflagellate Woloszynskia pascheri

Chloroplasts of the freshwater dinoflagellate,Woloszynskia pascheri, were found to contain small, double membrane-bound bodies that appear to be modified bacteria existing in this organelle as endosymbionts. These “chloroplast endosymbionts” (CESs) contain thin filaments, which observations on thin-sectioned and Feulgen-stained material indicate to be strands of “naked” DNA. They also possess putative prokaryotic-sized ribosomes. The outer of the two membranes that surround a CES may be expanded to form cisternae or tubules, which frequently connect with the outer membrane of adjacent CESs. Considering their appearance in relation to free-living bacteria, and their apparently benign presence in the dinoflagellate host, it is suggested that the CESs have been involved in a symbiotic relationship withW. pascheri for some time.
Differential gene expression in human granulosa cells from recombinant FSH versus human menopausal gonadotropin ovarian stimulation protocols

The study was designed to test the hypothesis that granulosa cell (GC) gene expression response differs between recombinant FSH and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) stimulation regimens. Females < 35 years-old undergoing IVF for tubal or male factor infertility were prospectively randomized to one of two stimulation protocols, GnRH agonist long protocol plus individualized dosages of (1) recombinant (r)FSH (Gonal-F) or (2) purified human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG; Menopur). Oocytes were retrieved 35 h post-hCG, and GC were collected. Total RNA was extracted from each GC sample, biotinylated cRNA was synthesized, and each sample was run on Human Genome Bioarrays (Applied Microarrays). Unnamed genes and genes with <2-fold difference in expression were excluded. After exclusions, 1736 genes exhibited differential expression between groups. Over 400 were categorized as signal transduction genes, ~180 as transcriptional regulators, and ~175 as enzymes/metabolic genes. Expression of selected genes was confirmed by RT-PCR. Differentially expressed genes included A kinase anchor protein 11 (AKAP11), bone morphogenetic protein receptor II (BMPR2), epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP)-4, IGFBP-5, and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 alpha. Results suggest that major differences exist in the mechanism by which pure FSH alone versus FSH/LH regulate gene expression in preovulatory GC that could impact oocyte maturity and developmental competence.
Diet and vitamin D: A review with an emphasis on human function

Abstract Vitamin D, either derived from the diet or skin production, has become an increasingly important molecule in human function because of the extended longevity of human populations in many nations. The actual vitamin D requirements of elderly individuals remain difficult to determine because environmental conditions, especially sunlight exposure, vary so greatly throughout the world. Data are limited on the potential prophylactic benefit of vitamin D or 1,25(OH)2D in metabolic bone diseases, such as osteoporosis, in the absence of vitamin D deficiency. Possible roles of vitamin D or its metabolites in the etiology or treatment of diabetes mellitus, cancer, and hypertension have been reviewed recently by Bikle. New information on the functional roles of 1,25(OH)2D on target tissues and the mechanism of action of this key molecule continue to emerge.
Regular graphs with high edge degree

Abstract For any vertex x of a graph G let Δ ( x ) denote the set of vertices adjacent to x . We seek to describe the connected graphs G which are regular of valence n and in which for all adjacent vertices x and y | Δ ( x ) ∩ Δ ( y )| = n − 1 − s . It is known that the complete graphs are the graphs for which s = 0. For any s , any complete many-partite graph, each part containing s + 1 vertices, is such a graph. We show that these are the only such graphs for which the valence exceeds 2 s 2 − s + 1. The graphs satisfying these conditions for s = 1 or 2 are characterized (up to the class of trivalent triangle-free graphs.)
The Impact of Sustained, Standards-Based Professional Learning on Second and Third Grade Teachers’ Content and Pedagogical Knowledge in Integrated Mathematics

This 3 year longitudinal study reports the feasibility of an Improving Teacher Quality: No Child Left Behind project for impacting teachers’ content and pedagogical knowledge in mathematics in nine Title I elementary schools in the southeastern United States. Data were collected for 3 years to determine the impact of standards and research-based teacher training on these aspects of teacher quality. Content knowledge for the scope of this research study refers to the knowledge that teachers have about subject matter. Teacher quality is directly related to teachers’ “highly qualified” status, as defined by the No Child Left Behind mandate. According to this mandate, every classroom should have a teacher qualified to teach in his subject area and be able to “raise the percentage of students who are proficient in reading and math, and in narrowing the test-score gap between advantaged and disadvantaged students.” Participants were six second grade and seven third grade teachers of mathematics from nine schools within one failing school district. The implementation of standards-based methods in the nine Title I Schools increased teacher quality in elementary school mathematics. In fact, qualitative and quantitative data revealed significant gains in teachers’ mathematics content and pedagogical knowledge at both grade levels.
Quantitative methods in psychiatric classification: the path forward is clear but complex: commentary on Krueger and Eaton (2010).

Krueger and Eaton (pp. 97‐118, this issue) have provided a trenchant argument for greater use of dimensional approaches in the classification of personality disorders (PDs) in future iterations of the psychiatric nomenclature, and their explication of the importance of personality constructs in models of psychopathology more generally is commendably lucid. We agree that the division of PDs in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM–IV) into 10 categorical diagnoses with arbitrary thresholds does not match existing data and requires significant retooling, and we view the inclusion of dimensional traits as an important component of the provisional Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) proposal. Although we share Krueger and Eaton’s enthusiasm for the position that quantitative methods in psychiatric classification represent the best path forward, we also appreciate the complexity that is inevitable in identifying the best indicators of latent constructs, selecting the preferred quantitative methods for modeling such constructs, and interpreting the results when multiple models and multiple indices of fit are plausible. These issues will require critical analysis of information theory, model selection methods, and iterative development of construct validity (Burnham & Anderson, 2002; Cronbach & Meehl, 1955). Therefore, our commentary highlights four issues: 1. Hybrid latent variable models that incorporate latent classes and trait dimensions simultaneously may provide the greatest clarity about psychiatric disorders, 2. Choices among alternative criteria of model fit (drawn from information theory and Bayesian approaches) may lead to different interpretations of classification data,