cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predicting for Lost to Follow-up in Surgical Management of Patients with Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Background Lost to follow-up (LTF) represents an understudied barrier to effective management of chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). Understanding the factors associated with LTF after surgical treatment of cSDH could uncover pathways for quality improvement efforts and modify discharge planning. We sought to identify the demographic and clinical factors associated with patient LTF. Methods A single-institution, retrospective cohort study of patients treated surgically for convexity cSDH from 2009 to 2019 was conducted. The primary outcome was LTF, with neurosurgical readmission as the secondary outcome. Univariate analysis was conducted using the student-t test and χ2 test. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with LTF and neurosurgical readmission. Results A total of 139 patients were included, 29% of whom were LTF. The mean first postoperative follow-up duration was 60 days. On univariate analysis, uninsured/Medicaid coverage was associated with increased LTF compared with private insurance/Medicare coverage (62.5% vs. 41.4%; P = 0.039). A higher discharge modified Rankin scale score was also associated with LTF (3.7 vs. 3.5; P Conclusions Uninsured and Medicaid patients had a greater likelihood of LTF compared with private insurance and Medicare patients. LTF was further associated with an increased risk of neurosurgical readmission. The results from the present study emphasize the need to address barriers to follow-up to reduce readmission after surgery for cSDH. These findings could inform improved discharge planning, such as predischarge repeat imaging studies and postdischarge contact.
Evaluation of enhanced coalbed methane recovery and carbon dioxide sequestration potential in high volatile bituminous coal

Abstract Geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2) captured from flue gas into deep unmineable coal seams is a promising option to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Also, the injection costs can be partially or entirely offset by the revenue generated through the additional methane recovered. Complex phenomena occur during primary coalbed methane (CBM) recovery and CO2 injection for enhanced methane production and CO2 sequestration (CO2-ECBM). Numerical modeling and simulations can be used to represent these complex phenomena. This research investigates the CO2 storage capacity and CO2-ECBM recovery potential of a high volatile bituminous coal (Ferron coal) in Buzzard Bench, Uinta Basin. It is one of the most recognized coalbed methane producing areas in the U.S. and high-graded for evaluation due to its proximity to coal-fired power plants and CBM activity history. A three-dimensional geological model was first constructed with information available from the public domain. Available gamma-ray and density logs were utilized to develop the three-dimensional model of the coal seam and the overlying rocks using geostatistical techniques. This allows heterogeneity to be introduced in both vertical and horizontal directions, thereby creating a representational geologic model. After that, a dynamic reservoir model was constructed and calibrated against actual methane production using a history match. Simulations of CO2 injection and collateral methane production were carried out after the history match using two injectors and two production wells. The fluid flow simulation results demonstrated that it may be feasible to inject 1.16 million tons and sequester 1.15 million tons of CO2 over 20 years. Additionally, 13.95 billion cubic feet of methane were recovered within the same period. Due to the permeability reduction by coal matrix swelling, the methane recovered decreased by 19%, while the volume of CO2 injected decreased by 29%. This demonstrated injection feasibility, even in the presence of potential permeability reduction by coal matrix swelling during CO2 injection. Injection and production strategies are suggested to maximize injectivity and sequestration to overcome problems resulting from permeability changes and override.
Pneumocytes are distinguished by highly elevated expression of the ER stress biomarker GRP78, a co-receptor for SARS-CoV-2, in COVID-19 autopsies

Vaccinations are widely credited with reducing death rates from COVID-19 but the underlying host-viral mechanisms/interactions for morbidity and mortality of SARS-CoV-2 infection remain poorly understood. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) describes the severe lung injury, which is pathologically associated with alveolar damage, inflammation, non-cardiogenic edema, and hyaline membrane formation. Because proteostatic pathways play central roles in cellular protection, immune modulation, protein degradation and tissue repair, we examined the pathological features for the unfolded protein response (UPR) using the surrogate biomarker glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and co-receptor for SARS-CoV-2. At autopsy, immunostaining of COVID-19 lungs showed highly elevated expression of GRP78 in both pneumocytes and macrophages compared to non-COVID control lungs. GRP78 expression was detected in both SARS-CoV-2 infected and un-infected pneumocytes as determined by multiplexed immunostaining for nucleocapsid protein. In macrophages, immunohistochemical staining for GRP78 from deceased COVID-19 patients was increased but overlapped with GRP78 expression taken from surgical resections of non-COVID-19 controls. In contrast, the robust in situ GRP78 immunostaining of pneumocytes from COVID-19 autopsies exhibited no overlap and was independent of age, race/ethnicity and gender compared with non-COVID-19 controls. Our findings bring new insights for stress-response pathways involving the proteostatic network implicated for host resilience and suggest that targeting of GRP78 expression might afford an alternative therapeutic strategy to modulate host-viral interactions during SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Knowledge transfer in the context of refutation texts

Abstract In this study, we examined the conditions under which readers are able to transfer revised knowledge as a result of reading refutation texts (i.e. texts that explicitly state and refute a misconception). Across three experiments, participants read refutation texts that addressed socioscientific and nonsocioscientific issues as well as transfer texts that were designed to reactivate the misconceptions addressed in refutation texts. In Experiments 1 and 2, the results indicate that reading a refutation text reduces interference from the misconception as participants read the transfer texts in close temporal distance, even when the misconception is reactivated. In Experiment 3, the results indicate that participants reading refutation texts could not transfer revised knowledge when the temporal distance between refutation texts and transfer texts increased. Students’ performance on pretest and posttest questionnaires also suggest that reading the refutation texts facilitated knowledge revision prior to transfer. We discuss the findings in the context of the Knowledge Revision Components Framework.
Technical Feasibility, Outcomes, and Patient Satisfaction After Needlescopic and Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery: a Randomized Study

Needlescopic instruments create a 3-mm incision and may result in less pain and superior cosmesis. There is limited understanding of the effectiveness of needlescopic instruments in patients with a body mass index (BMI) > 35 kg/m2. We report perioperative outcomes and perception of body image with use of needlescopic instruments after bariatric surgery. Laparoscopic bariatric procedures were performed on 30 adults at a single academic medical center from January to December 2017. Patients were randomized to conventional laparoscopy (LAP) or needlescopic (NEED) surgery. The Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ) and Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ) were completed at 6 months and 1 year. Univariate analysis was performed on perioperative outcomes and survey scores. Surgery was completed on patients in the LAP group (N = 13) and compared to the NEED group (N = 17). The mean BMI was 41.4 kg/m2 LAP and 41.1 kg/m2 NEED. The most common procedure was Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), with 13 RYGB in LAP and 12 RYGB in NEED (P = 0.76).The operative time was not significantly different between the LAP and the NEED group (209.5 ± 66.1 vs 181.9 ± 58.1 min, P = 0.48). There was no leak or mortality in the 30-day follow-up period. Within MBSRQ, the patient’s appearance self-evaluation score was similar between LAP and NEED (2.5 ± 0.6 vs 2.4 ± 0.6, P = 0.61). Within PSAQ, the mean satisfaction score for incision appearance was also similar between LAP and NEED (16.1± 2.9 vs 15.4 ± 4.6, P = 0.85). Incision-related perceptions remained consistent at 6 months and 1 year after bariatric surgery. Needlescopic instruments are safe and a viable alternative to use during bariatric surgery. Appearance and perception of scar were similar between groups. Further studies with needlescopic instruments should include patients with a BMI > 35 kg/m2 and compare additional factors associated with body image.
Novel use of existing technology to deliver remote simulation in a nursing program during a global pandemic

Abstract The need to provide simulation as a replacement for clinical education due to a pandemic forced nursing faculty to be creative. Social distancing, hybrid methods of delivery and potential need for quarantining made it necessary to develop a cost-effective way to combine in-person and remote students into a single simulation session. The current simulation management system was not being supported by the vendor, nor did it have the capability to allow interactive streaming of the simulation session. Nurse educators were tasked to find an affordable, innovative replacement that would meet program needs. This article details the use of a combined 360-degree camera, mic and speaker product, a web document camera, and a video communication product. Existing equipment and technology purchased and readily available was used in a creative and innovative way to deliver simulation without addition cost.
Dietary quality, food security and glycemic control among adults with diabetes.

Summary Background and aims Nutritionally adequate diets can slow the progression of diabetes, but adherence to recommended dietary choices can be hindered by food insecurity. We examined the relationship between dietary quality, food insecurity, and glycemic control among adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Methods We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2016) for 1682 adults =>20 years old with Type 2 diabetes. Glycemic control was measured by HbA1c. Dietary quality was computed using the Healthy Eating Index 2015 score. Food security was assessed by a questionnaire. We analyzed the data using multinomial regression models. Results About 16% of the population had an HbA1c ≥ 9; 31.8% had food insecurity; 68.3% consumed a poor quality diet. About 24% consumed a poor quality diet and had food insecurity. In the multinomial model, an HbA1c of 8- Conclusions Poor glycemic control among adults with diabetes was associated with poor quality of diet and/or food insecurity, being Black, Hispanic, and lacking a regular source of care. There is a need for policies that improve access to healthy food in patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly among minority populations.
Consequences of oncogenic isocitrate dehydrogenase mutations and 2-hydroxyglutarate production in prostate epithelium

Background Recent technological advances in DNA sequencing have yielded more comprehensive identification of mutations occurring in tumors. These efforts have detected recurrent mutations in a gene encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1) in several tumor types including prostate cancer. In each of these tumors IDH1 missense mutations at arginine 132 (R132) confer a gain of function and produce an aberrant metabolite, 2-hydroxyglutarate (2HG) as opposed to wild type (WT) activity that produces alpha-ketoglutarate (a-KG). a-KG is a cofactor for the Ten-Eleven Translocation enzymes (TET1/2/3), which catalyze DNA hydroxymethylation. Although this DNA modification is predicted to affect epigenetic regulation, its specific effects and target genes remain unclear. We hypothesize that 2HG produced by mutant IDH1 promotes tumor phenotypes through mechanisms directly affecting DNA hydroxymethylation.
Homologous and illegitimate recombination in developing Xenopus oocytes and eggs.

Abstract Exogenous DNA is efficiently recombined when injected into the nuclei of Xenopus laevis oocytes. This reaction proceeds by a homologous resection-annealing mechanism which depends on the activity of a 5'-->3' exonuclease. Two possible functions for this recombination activity have been proposed: it may be a remnant of an early process in oogenesis, such as meiotic recombination or amplification of genes coding for rRNA, or it may reflect materials stored for embryogenesis. To test these hypotheses, recombination capabilities were examined with oocytes at various developmental stages. Late-stage oocytes performed only homologous recombination, whereas the smallest oocytes ligated the restriction ends of the injected DNA but supported no homologous recombination. This transition from ligation to recombination activity was also seen in nuclear extracts from these same stages. Exonuclease activity was measured in the nuclear extracts and found to be low in early stages and then to increase in parallel with recombination capacity in later stages. The accumulation of exonuclease and recombination activities during oogenesis suggests that they are stored for embryogenesis and are not present for oocyte-specific functions. Eggs were also tested and found to catalyze homologous recombination, ligation, and illegitimate recombination. Retention of homologous recombination in eggs is consistent with an embryonic function for the resection-annealing mechanism. The observation of all three reactions in eggs suggests that multiple pathways are available for the repair of double-strand breaks during the extremely rapid cleavage stages after fertilization.
Technology transfer at Sandia National Laboratories

Transferring technology to the private sector to help improve the competitiveness of key US industries is now an official mission of the US Department of Energy's defense program national laboratories. We believe that national laboratories can play an important role in addressing US industrial competitiveness. Sandia is seeking to match laboratory strengths with industry-defined market needs in targeted industrial sectors. Sandia, like other national and federal laboratories, is developing an aggressive technology transfer program. This paper provides a brief review of our program and provides a snapshot of where we are at today. >
Equilibrium shapes in non-uniform fields of concentration

The special case of a metabolizing cell, with infinite permeability, suspended in the field of an equivalent cell is treated exactly to determine its equilibrium shape for small deformations. It is found that flattening takes place along the line of centers.
Supercritical toluene and ethanol extraction of an Illinois No. 6 coal

Abstract The effect of temperature, pressure, solvent/coal ratio and reaction time on supercritical toluene dissolution of an Illinois No. 6 are reported in this Paper. The experiments were conducted in a batch autoclave operating at temperatures ranging between 350 and 450 °C and pressures between 5.89 and 16 MPa. Low liquid yields in the range of 5–20% were obtained during toluene extraction. The liquid yields increase with temperature and total pressure, and only slightly with hydrogen partial pressure. Ethanol extraction gives better yields but significant solvent losses also occurred. The low liquid yield obtained can be attributed to the nature of the coal and the contacting batch mode used.
Mitochondrial dysfunction measured in vivo

Aims: Mitochondria are responsible for meeting the majority of the energetic demand of most tissues. They also play a major role in regulating cell survival. These dual roles of mitochondria place them at the centre of many pathologies leading to tissue degeneration and disruption of energy balance. The prominent role of mitochondria in ageing and disease has led to a tremendous growth in mitochondrial research at the cellular and molecular level. We describe below a new non-invasive approach to measure mitochondrial function that will bridge the gap between our understanding of mitochondrial function in vitro and that in the intact organism. Methods and Results: This approach uses optical and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure in vivo O2 consumption and ATP synthesis rates, respectively, from skeletal muscle. These values lead to a quantitative assessment of the mitochondrial ATP/O2 or P/O. The P/O represents the efficiency of coupling between phosphorylation and oxygen consumption in the mitochondria, which is a measure of mitochondrial dysfunction. Conclusions: This work represents a significant advance in research on the role of mitochondria in degenerative disease and ageing because it allows a quantitative measure of mitochondrial pathology in vivo. The non-invasive nature of this approach also enables repeated measures of mitochondrial function on the same individual, thereby making this a potentially useful diagnostic technique. The results from this work have led to insights into the coupling of ATP synthesis to oxidation and the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation by intracellular PO2.
Cerebral pressure passivity in newborns with encephalopathy undergoing therapeutic hypothermia.

We extended our recent modification of the power spectral estimation approach to quantify spectral coherence. We tested both the standard and the modified approaches on simulated data which showed that the modified approach was highly specific and sensitive to the coupling introduced in the simulation while the standard approach lacked these features. We also applied the modified and standard approaches to quantify the pressure passivity in 4 infants receiving therapeutic hypothermia. This was done by measuring the coupling between continuous cerebral hemoglobin differences and mean arterial blood pressure. Our results showed that the modified approach identified a lower pressure passivity index (PPI, percent time the coherence was above a predefined threshold) than the standard approach ($P=0.0027)$.
Case Study of Organochlorine Pesticides in the Indoor Air of a Home

The indoor air concentrations of aldrin and dieldrin, two organochlorine termiticides, were monitored in the basement, main level, and upstairs area of a treated home. Aldrin and dieldrin concentrations were measured in the home between September 1987 and April 1995. Aldrin and dieldrin concentrations were highest in the basement, where the aldrin and dieldrin had been applied. Aldrin concentrations decreased with a half-life of 16 months in both the main level and basement of the home, but dieldrin concentrations remained the same over the study period. In 1995, we expanded our measurements to include the indoor and outdoor air concentrations of a set of organochlorine compounds used as pesticides. These compounds include aldrin, dieldrin, four chlordanes, pentachloroanisole, and the hexachlorocyclo- hexanes. All compounds except the hexachlorocyclohexanes had higher indoor than outdoor air concentrations, implying that their sources were in the home. In the indoor air, aldrin, dieldrin, and the chlordan...
Design of Infiltrating Basin by Soil Storage and Conveyance Capacities

Design of storm water storage basins must take both surface infiltrating flow and subsurface seepage flow into consideration. Standing water can result from the condition that the subsurface seepage capacity is less than the surface infiltrating capacity or the basin storage volume exceeds the soil pore volume underneath the basin. To avoid a prolonged draining operation, an infiltrating basin must be designed under the constraints of the soil pore storage capacity before saturation and the soil conveyance capacity after saturation. In this study, the potential flow model is developed to estimate the soil pore storage volume underneath the basin and to predict the conveyance capacity through the saturated soil medium between the basin and the local groundwater table. The potential flow model for infiltrating water flow provides a quantifiable basis to define the soil constraints and to compare various alternatives at the basin site.
2-deoxy[14C]glucose uptake in the rat hypoglossal nucleus after nerve transection

Abstract We studied glucose utilization by measuring 2-deoxy[14C]glucose uptake in the rat hypoglossal nucleus after nerve transection, using the contralateral nucleus with intact nerve for comparison. There was increased glucose use on the side of nerve transection 24 h after axotomy. The difference between the two sides increased until at 14 days after nerve transection there was a 62% greater density on the transected side. The rapidity of onset of the accelerated glucose metabolism suggests that it may be among the first metabolic events to occur during regeneration.
In vitro metabolic effects of proteolytic digests of bovine growth hormone in adipose tissue

Abstract Proteolytic digests of bovine growth hormone (BGH) prepared by controlled tryptic (TBGH) or papain (PBGH) digestion have in vitro metabolic properties which are qualitatively indistinguishable from native BGH preparations when evaluated by their ability to effect glucose-14C uptake, its oxidation to CO2 and incorporation in lipid, glycerol release, and histidine incorporation into protein of adipose tissue obtained from hypophysectomized rats. Chromatographic fractions of TBGH vary as to their relative potencies in stimulating these responses, both with respect to each other and with respect to the total TBGH digest. One fraction of TBGH formed from BGH by the proteolysis of 2–3 peptide bonds, possesses all the qualitative metabolic effects in vitro while exhibiting a moderate loss in potency both in vitro and in growth-promoting activity. Fractions of PBGH had activities similar to the PBGH digest.
Can Social Meaningfulness and Repeat Exposure Help Infants and Toddlers Overcome the Video Deficit

Two experiments were conducted to test several questions regarding very young children's (6–24 months) learning (i.e., simple action imitation and word learning) from video. Specifically, this study tested the video deficit, which is the tendency for infants and toddlers to learn significantly more effectively from live information than they do when identical information is presented on a screen. First, the video deficit was explored using two different tasks. Overall, the pattern of results was similar for action imitation and word learning. Specifically, the video deficit was present for both simple action imitation and for word learning in the middle cohort, but not present for younger and older children. Second, there was some mitigation of the video deficit from seeing socially meaningful actors for action imitation; however for word learning the effect only approached significance. Third, repetition helped children learn words more effectively, especially for the youngest and oldest cohort; however,...
Computation of the Safety Fans for Multistage Aerodelivery Systems

This paper deals with the development of a mathematical foundation and practical algorithms to compute the safety fans to be used in conjunction with aerodynamic deceleration payload delivery systems tests. The paper provides formulas to compute a descent / gliding trajectory for a multiple-stage system and then considers several cases of major failures. It also introduces the concept of ballistic winds, simplifying calculation of the safety fans so that the computer is no longer needed, and shows how to carefully calculate these ballistic winds based on the best known winds aloft. Finally, the paper introduces the graphical user interface developed and tested by the authors that is supposed to provide test planning officers with a unique variety of trade-off options as well as to effectively represent all safety-related information both to the ground personal and to the crew performing a payload delivery from a transport aircraft or helicopter. The paper ends with conclusions. Notations 0 H , 0 V , 0 Ψ = altitude, speed and direction of the aircraft at the release point 2 H , 3 H
Ideal learning machines

We examine the prospects for finding “best possible” or “ideal” computing machines for various learning tasks. For this purpose, several precise senses of “ideal machine” are considered within the context of formal learning theory. Generally negative results are provided concerning the existence of ideal learning-machines in the senses considered.
Progress on the Data Acquisition System at NSCL

We report on the progress made in data acquisition software development. Specifically, a unique generalized data routing scheme has been developed which allows user online analysis programs to be safely integrated into the acquisition system without endangering data sent to event recording devices. We describe the structure of the system. Performance is discussed and throughput calculated from it. User experience with the system is also discussed. We show how this routing system may easily be adapted to loosely coupled multiprocessor systems.
Oxidation of ruthenium aluminide-based alloys: The role of microstructure and platinum additions

Abstract The cyclic oxidation behavior of six RuAl-based alloys was studied in air over the temperature range of 1000–1300 °C. Oxidation kinetics were influenced by microstructure as well as the addition of platinum. Single phase RuAl-based alloys formed a layered oxide structure during oxidation. The presence of the δ-Ru-rich eutectic along grain boundaries strongly accelerated the oxidation process. A single phase Pt-containing RuAl-based alloy exhibited the highest oxidation resistance.
We Are Mothers Too: Childbearing Experiences of Lesbian Families

Objective To describe lesbians’ personal and health care experiences of becoming pregnant, giving birth, and being mothers and comothers within the context of potentially oppressive family, social, and political structures. Design Critical ethnography. Setting Participants’ homes, lesbian mother support group, and prenatal clinics and hospitals in the Pacific Northwest. Participants English‐speaking self‐identified lesbian women, including 21 interview and six focus‐group participants and approximately 43 observed in a support group. Data Collection In‐depth open‐ended interviews, focus group, and participant observation. Data Analysis Content/categorical analysis followed by discussion of the mother’s stories and a critical conversation about lesbian mothering. Results The seven organizing themes are as follows: preparing the way: becoming ready; conception: you can’t just fall into it; you can hear a heartbeat: pregnancy; birthing our babies; the work of mothers and mothers who work; families who sustain and families who oppose; and sources of support in everyday life. The first four are described in this article. Conclusions Health care providers, policy makers, and the public can be better informed about the specific needs of childbearing lesbians.
Simplified Model for CO2 Leakage and its Attenuation due to Geological Structures

For risk associated with storage of CO2 under the Earth's surface, the impervious cap is one of the most significant factors. Geological structures such as faults can provide conduits for CO2 to escape through the cap. When conductive faults intersect the storage formation and overlying permeable layers, CO2 leaks may exhibit three distinct behaviors: initial upward migration of fluids through the fault, lateral fluid movement through permeable layers, and continued movement of CO2 along the fault above the leakage pathways. To quantify this behavior, especially the attenuation, we develop a quasi-1D model for migration of buoyant fluid from a reservoir along a conductive fault. The fault can intersect multiple shallower formations. The model accounts for flow from the fault into a permeable formation using the concept of leakoff. The leakoff coefficient depends on the geometry and on the petrophysical properties of the formation. We use a commercial simulator (GEM from CMG) to run 2D verification studies of the 1D model. We present a series of examples that illustrate the controlling mechanisms for leakage rate from the reservoir and its attenuation by flux into shallower layers. Leakage flux and its attenuation vary nonlinearly with the permeability of the fault and the permeability of the shallower layers intersected by the fault. Permeable layers near the CO2 storage reservoir exhibit the greatest attenuation. While there is a nonlinear relationship between flux through the fault and the size of the leakoff coefficient, there is a linear relationship between the percentage which leaks off into neighboring formations and the ratio of fault permeability to leakoff coefficient. The rate of attenuation of CO2 leakage depends on geometric and/or petrophysical properties of highly permeable structures as well as reservoir properties. An analytical derivation of the leak-off coefficient based on Darcy's equation compares favorably with 2D simulations. On the other hand, in the case of tilted permeable layers, calculation of the leakoff coefficient is less straightforward due to preferential flow within the layer (lighter CO2 rising above heavier brine).
Role of excitotoxicity in human neurological disease

An increasing body of evidence has implicated excitoxicity as a mechanism of neuronal death in both acute and chronic neurological diseases. A major recent advance has been the successful cloning and expression of the non-NMDA, NMDA, and metabotropic glutamate receptors. The cellular mechanisms responsible for cell death following activation of these receptors are still being clarified. A recent advance in conceptualizing excitotoxicity is the notion that a slow excitotoxic process may occur as a consequence of either a receptor abnormality or an impairment of energy metabolism. It is possible that such a mechanism may occur in neurodegenerative illnesses. Recent therapeutic studies have focused on glycine site antagonists and on the efficacy of non-NMDA antagonists in ischemia.
Preferred Secondary Structures as a Possible Driving Force for Macrocyclization

Abstract The purpose of the work described in this paper was to explore links that may exist between conformational bias in macrocyclic products and the ease with which they are formed in solid phase SNAr reactions. Solid phase synthesis of compounds 2 proceeds more efficiently than of compounds 3 under similar conditions. Compounds 2 were designed to mimic β-turn conformations in the dipeptide residues whereas compounds 3 were thought to be unable to show a similar conformational preference. The second assertion was shown to be correct but, surprisingly, CD, NMR, and molecular simulation experiments for 2a indicate another conformation is preferred in solution. This may involve H-bonding of the asparagine side-chain to a backbone amide-carbonyl. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that cyclization to form compound 2a is statistically more favorable than that to form 3a.
Synthesis and solid-state NMR structural characterization of polysiloxane-immobilized amine ligands and their metal complexes

Abstract Polysiloxane-immobilized amine and diamine ligand systems have been made by hydrolytic condensation of Si(OEt)4 with (EtO)3Si(CH2)3NH2 or (MeO)3Si(CH2)3NH(CH2)2NH2. The corresponding triamine ligand was made from the reaction of 3-chloropropylpolysiloxane with diethylenetriamine (H2NCH2CH2NHCH2CH2NH2); solid-state 13 C and 15 N nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra can identify the structure of the product of this reaction. 29 Si , 15 N , 13 C and 1 H NMR spectra are in general valuable for characterizing these polysiloxane structures, and provide evidence for the involvement of the amine ligands in hydrogen bonding with surface silanols. Together with results of classical elemental analysis, the NMR data indicate that a portion of the ligand groups are inaccessible to metal ions and remain uncoordinated when these materials are treated with aqueous solutions of divalent metal ions. 29 Si NMR spectra and elemental analysis reveal some details of the leaching of these polysiloxane materials, when they are treated with acids or metal ion solutions. Relaxation times, T1H, were measured, based on 29 Si and 13 C detection, on the polysiloxane-immobilized ligand systems. The T1H results suggest that the organofunctionalities in these systems are evenly distributed in the polysiloxane network.
Prognostic factors for stage III epithelial ovarian cancer treated with intraperitoneal chemotherapy: A Gynecologic Oncology Group study

Abstract Objectives To determine prognostic factors for survival in ovarian cancer patients treated with intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy using ancillary data from cooperative group clinical trials. Methods Data were collected from 428 patients with stage III ovarian cancer who underwent optimal surgical cytoreduction ( Results Median PFS was 24.9months (95% CI, 23.0–29.2) and median OS was 61.8months (95% CI, 55.5–69.8). Predictors for PFS were histology, surgical stage and residual disease. Age, histology, and residual disease were prognostic for OS. There were no differences in the hazard ratio for death or progression between patients with positive, negative, or unknown lymph node status. For patients receiving IP chemotherapy (n=428), 36% of patients had no residual disease with median PFS of 43.2months (95% CI 32.5–60.4) and median OS of 110months (95% CI, 60.0–161.3). Conclusions Age, histology, and extent of residual disease were predictors of OS in stage III patients treated with IP chemotherapy following optimal cytoreduction. Patients with no residual disease following primary surgery that are treated with adjuvant platinum based IP chemotherapy have survival measures that exceed any rates previously seen in this population.
Urolithiasis - nutritional aspects

Abstract The progressive increase in the incidence of calcium oxalatephosphate calculi of the upper urinary tract during the 20th century in Western Europe and North America appears associated with affluence. Changes in diet over that time period have produced changes in urinary solutes which would increase the probability of calculus formation. Increased ingestion of animal protein produces a significant increase in the urinary excretion of calcium, oxalate and uric acid. Dietary calcium, oxalate and purine increase the excretion of calcium, oxalate and uric acid directly. Urine oxalate also increases with an increased ingestion of calcium but, paradoxically, also increases with severe dietary calcium restriction. Oral carbohydrate loading increases urinary calcium and magnesium excretion. Changes in urinary calcium excretion induced by dietary fiber appears related to the phytate content. A rational, though not of proven efficacy, dietary approach to urolithiasis therapy includes restriction of animal protein, avoidance of excess oxalate ingestion, a normal calcium intake, and water intake sufficient to generate 2 liters of urine per day.
Relative Conduction Velocities of Small Myelinated and Non-myelinated Fibres in the Central Nervous System

IN peripheral nerve, most axons with diameters of less than 1 µm do not have myelin sheaths, while most fibres more than 1 µm in diameter are myelinated1,2. In the central nervous system, axons as small as 0.2 µm in diameter may be myelinated2–5. In his paper on the effects of myelin on conduction velocity, Rushton6 concluded that 1 µm is the “critical diameter” above which “myelin increases conduction velocity” and below which “conduction is faster without myelination”. This conclusion is referred to widely (see, for example, refs. 7–9). In this communication we demonstrate that the analysis leading to this conclusion is based on morphological data10 which do not apply either to central or to peripheral fibres, so that myelinated fibres considerably smaller than 1 µm might be expected to conduct more rapidly than non-myelinated fibres of similar size.
Young children ‘solve for x’ using the Approximate Number System

The Approximate Number System (ANS) supports basic arithmetic computation in early childhood, but it is unclear whether the ANS also supports the more complex computations introduced later in formal education. ‘Solving for x’ in addend-unknown problems is notoriously difficult for children, who often struggle with these types of problems well into high school. Here we asked whether 4–6-year-old children could solve for an unknown addend using the ANS. We presented problems either symbolically, using Arabic numerals or verbal number words, or non-symbolically, using collections of objects while preventing verbal counting. Across five experiments, children failed to identify the value of the unknown addend when problems were presented symbolically, but succeeded when problems were presented non-symbolically. Our results suggest that, well before formal exposure to unknown-addend problems, children appear to ‘solve for x’ in an intuitive way, using the ANS.
Twin Deficits or Distant Cousins? Evidence from India1:

The twin-deficits theory has intrigued economists and policy-makers alike for the past few decades. In a Keynesian economy, budget deficit increases the absorption of the economy, causes import expansions, and thereby, worsens the trade deficit. It also causes domestic interest rates to rise, domestic currency to appreciate, and thereby, contributes to trade deficits. However, according to the Ricardian Equivalence Hypothesis (REH), rising budget deficits imply higher future tax liabilities so people would save more and consume less. As a result, an inter-temporal shift between taxes and budget deficits would have no impact on the real interest, or the trade deficit. Thus, the issue of whether the twin-deficits phenomenon holds becomes more of an empirical question, and the recent fiscal expansions to curb recession makes it timely to revisit the phenomenon, especially for the developing countries confronting both the deficits on a chronic basis. To this end, we make a case study of India, using the bound...
Persistence of multiply antibiotic-resistant campylobacter jejuni in a patient with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Chronic diarrhea due to Campylobacter jejuni has been described in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia. A patient with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and normal total serum immunoglobulins had persistent diarrhea and C. jejuni on stool culture for seven and a half months despite repeated antibiotic therapy. Antibiotic sensitivity studies revealed the C. jejuni to be multiply antibiotic-resistant. Evaluation of the mechanism of resistance showed the organism harbored a conjugative plasmid capable of transferring resistance to tetracycline, but not to other antibiotics. It is concluded that C. jejuni infection may rarely result in chronic diarrhea in patients with AIDS. The combination of an immune deficiency state including abnormal B cell function previously described in AIDS and multiple antibiotic resistance may have contributed to the persistence of the organism in this case.
Bycatch of Shortnose Sturgeon in the Commercial American Shad Fishery of the Altamaha River, Georgia

Abstract The objective of our study was to estimate total bycatch and mortality of shortnose sturgeon Acipenser brevirostrum in the anchored-gill-net portion of the commercial fishery for American shad Alosa sapidissima in the Altamaha River, Georgia, from 2007 to 2009. We conducted on-the-water counts of commercial nets to estimate total fishing effort. Catch per unit effort was estimated from log books and direct observations of net retrievals by randomly selected commercial fishermen. During the 3 years of the study, the total estimated bycatch of shortnose sturgeon was 71, 53, and 498 fish, respectively. Recent studies have estimated the abundance of adult shortnose sturgeon in the Altamaha River to be approximately 1,800 individuals. Our study showed that catch per unit effort was highest during January and February of 2009 in upriver areas where previous research had identified several spawning locations. Our results also showed that the mortality of captured shortnose sturgeon was low in all 3 year...
Logistic infrastructure and the international location of fragmented production

Abstract Casual evidence suggests that multinational companies increasingly look for places with adequate transport and logistic infrastructure to locate affiliates that participate in cross-border production sharing. Yet, there are no systematic empirical analyses examining how logistic infrastructure interacts with the location decisions made by multinationals. Most studies on the determinants of FDI address the issue of transportation-logistics by examining the impact of distance on the relevant outcome, but distance does not capture by itself the quality of the logistic systems in place. We overcome this shortcoming in the literature by embedding indicators of infrastructure into an empirical framework that examines whether countries with adequate logistic systems attract more vertical FDI and particularly in industries that are more dependent on logistic services. We find that logistic infrastructure positively impacts vertical FDI in addition to the impact typically found on distance. A change from the first quartile to the third quartile of the distribution of logistic infrastructure is associated with an average increase in the number of vertically-integrated subsidiaries equivalent to 29%.
Added value of a household-level study during an outbreak investigation of Salmonella serotype Saintpaul infections, New Mexico 2008

In 2008, nationwide investigations of a Salmonella serotype Saintpaul outbreak led first to consumer warnings for Roma and red round tomatoes, then later for jalapeno and serrano peppers. In New Mexico, where there were a large number of cases but no restaurant-based clusters, the NM Department of Health and the Indian Health Service participated with CDC in individual-level and household-level case-control studies of infections in New Mexico and the Navajo Nation. No food item was associated in the individual-level study. In the household-level study, households with an ill member were more likely to have had jalapeno peppers present during the exposure period and to have reported ever having serrano peppers in the household. This report illustrates the complexity of this investigation, the limitations of traditional individual-level case-control studies when vehicles of infection are ingredients or commonly eaten with other foods, and the added value of a household-level study.
Growth and body composition of pond-raised hybrid striped basses, Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops and M. saxatilis × M. mississippiensis, fed low and moderate levels of dietary lipid

Abstract Differences in growth of original-cross hybrid striped bass and striped bass × yellow bass hybrids have been documented in tank-reared fish. This experiment was conducted to compare growth and body composition of hybrids raised in ponds, and determine the extent to which growth and body lipid content was influenced by addition of a fish oil top-spray to the diet. Sixteen 0.04-ha earthen ponds were stocked with 300 fingerling striped bass hybrids per pond-8 ponds with a striped bass female × white bass male hybrid (SB × WB) and 8 with a striped bass female × yellow bass male hybrid (SB × YB). The two hybrids were hand-fed to apparent satiation, once daily, with either a menhaden-oil-supplemented diet (OSD; 6.78% total lipid) or a diet with no oil supplement (USD; 4.12% total lipid). Fish were harvested after 295 days. Mean production yields were 3974 kg/ha for SB × WB hybrids fed OSD; 3629 kg/ha for SB × WB hybrids fed USD; 2462 kg/ha for SB × YB hybrids fed OSD; and 2048 kg/ha for SB × YB hybrids fed USD. Weight gains of SB × WB hybrids fed oil-supplemented and unsupplemented diets were higher than weight gains of SB × YB hybrids fed either diet. Weight gain, feed efficiency ratio, and dietary protein and energy retention of SB × WB hybrids did not differ significantly among fish fed oil-supplemented or unsupplemented diets. However, SB × YB hybrids fed OSD had lower dietary protein and energy retention than those fed USD. Percentages of lipid in whole body and fillets of both hybrids increased with time, regardless of diet fed, but lipid content of fish did not differ among treatments. Fillet yield did not differ between SB × WB and SB × YB hybrids or among fish fed either diet. Results indicated that (1) SB × WB hybrids produced higher yields in ponds than SB × YB hybrids, and (2) increasing the dietary lipid level above 4% had no beneficial effect on production, feed efficiency, or body composition of either hybrid. A low-lipid practical diet of the type used in this study was suitable for production of SB × WB and SB × YB hybrids in ponds.
Uranium and thorium in tektites: An additional comment

The relationship between uranium and thorium in tektites and achondrites is reconsidered in the light of the oxygen isotopic composition of lunar rocks. A correlation is found between the uranium and thorium abundances in three high18O achondrites and those in tektites which is particularly strong in the case of the Australasian group.
The culturally informed functional assessment (CIFA) interview: A strategy for cross-cultural behavioral practice

How does a behavior therapist conduct a cognitive behavioral interview with a client from a culture or subculture different from his or her own? More specifically, how can a behavior therapist use functional assessment to formulate culturally sensitive hypotheses regarding a client's problem behaviors and controlling variables, and to select target behaviors and interventions that are culturally acceptable and likely to increase treatment effectiveness? We present a conceptual framework for culturally informed cognitive behavioral assessment and therapy, and offer practical guidelines for conducting functional assessment in a cross-cultural therapy situation. The proposed Culturally Informed Functional Assessment Interview (CIFA Interview) is then applied to the case of an intercultural marital couple with a presenting problem of communication difficulties.
Crystal growth of KCl in a reactive atmosphere II: The crystal growth technique

Abstract The crystal growth technique employed in the growth of large single crystals of KCl while the material is undergoing reactive-atmosphere processing is described in detail.
Confirmation of the protective effect of cysteamine in in vitro ultrasound exposures

Armour and Corry (Radiat. Res. (1982) 89 369-380) reported that ultrasound-induced damage to in vitro Chinese hamster ovary cells was significantly reduced in the presence of cysteamine. The objective of this study was to attempt verification of this result. Four series of experiments were undertaken using in vitro cell suspensions, namely: (1) determination of the effect of cysteamine concentration on cell growth; (2) determination of the temperature dependence of ultrasonically induced cell damage; (3) determination of a dose-response relationship for the cytotoxicity of cysteamine; and (4) assessment of cell integrity and reproductive capacity in the presence or absence of cysteamine during ultrasonic exposure. Ultrasound parameters included a resonance frequency of 1 MHz, a continuous wave exposure duration of 5 min, and intensities from 0 to 21.6 W cm-2. The results indicated a dependence of ultrasound's efficacy on the medium's temperature during insonation and a significant reduction of ultrasound efficacy in compromising cellular integrity in the presence of cysteamine.