cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-quality coding of the even fields based on the odd fields of interlaced video sequences

A high-quality and high-compression technique is presented for coding the even fields of digital interlaced video, assuming that the odd fields have already been coded. It may be useful in the second phase of a currently proposed scheme (MPEG) for video coding when aiming at a total bit rate of about 5 Mb/s, as well as for interlaced digital HDTV coding, including possible terrestrial and satellite all-digital transmission applications. The fields are coded with a digitally assisted hybrid multimode predictive/interpolative technique, using both predictive (hence recursive) and interpolative modes of operation. A compatible HDTV coding scheme based on the proposed technique is also outlined. >
Tactual Frequency and Amplitude Discrimination with Fixed and Roving Background

The authors present frequency and amplitude discrimination thresholds for motional and vibrational stimuli presented with and without the presence of roving background signals. Participants received on their left index fingertip sinusoidal displacement waveforms over a range of 2-200 Hz in frequency and 20-35 dB sensation level in amplitude. When the target stimulus was presented in isolation, the average Weber fraction for frequency was 0.18−0.25, and the average amplitude discrimination threshold was 2.2−2.5 dB. When roving background signals were presented with the targets and the participants were instructed to ignore the interfering backgrounds, the discrimination thresholds for both frequency and amplitude increased. The amount of increase depended on the nature of the background signals. The results are discussed in terms of their implications for tactual displays of speech in communication aids for the deaf.
Pushing the Boundary of Ultra HP/HT Completion Technology: The First 20,000-psi 470-degree F Permanent Production Packer for As-Rolled Casing

n technologies. However, well completion of ultra-HPHT fields poses great technological challenges to the operator and service companies. Existing completions technology is reaching its design limits around 15,000 psi and 450°F. As operators continue to drill in deeper and more extreme formations, the technology demand to suit these environments has steadily increased. Great efforts have been made across the industry to develop safe and reliable completion tools qualified for conditions in excess of 15,000 psi and 450°F. A new technological boundary was set recently in permanent production packer development―the first 20,000 psi, 470°F permanent production packer for as-rolled casing. A modified ISO 14310 V3 validation test was conducted on this permanent packer in as-rolled casing ID. The packer passed the test with no visible seal element extrusion, slip damage, or leaks detected at any of the load points in the test (including the bubble test). This paper presents how the packer utilizes a novel seal system design that evolved from several field-proven HPHT seal systems and the ways technological challenges are addressed using state-of-the-art materials and design processes. The paper comprises conceptual design, design optimization using finite-element analysis, and material characterization for metallurgical and seal materials. The qualification testing processes for the permanent production packer are also described in detail.
How Remedial Teachers Teach Vocabulary

Twenty experienced teachers, all with reading education background, designed and implemented what they considered to be exemplary vocabulary lessons. Transcripts of these audiotaped lessons were analyzed for the number of statements relating to word recognition or conceptual development. Conceptual development statements were analyzed further to determine a definition, semantic feature, or contextual usage focus. Additionally, teachers wrote rationales for the vocabulary words and instructional strategies selected. Results indicate that the majority of teachers provided dual-focused lessons, although conceptual development statements predominated in over half of the lessons. Lessons aimed at conceptual development, however, were shallow, and provided few opportunities for students to acquire a deep understanding of words.
Getting out of Procrustes' bed: The needs and benefits of qualitative research in stuttering

Qualitative research has a vast potential for understanding complex issues such as stuttering, and is becoming more common in that research field. The purpose of this article is to highlight the potential benefits of qualitative research in stuttering through exploration of four different research paradigms and their knowledge claims. Through this explanation, a case is built for the benefits of applying qualitative methods to stuttering research. Questions such as “how” a certain behavior or process take places, rather than just “if” a certain behavior or process takes place, are possible within the qualitative paradigm. It is concluded that future knowledge about stuttering and its treatment will be well served by applying the most appropriate investigative methods to it rather than by attempting to establish information with a restricted set of quantitative approaches.
A study of the metabolism of apolipoprotein B100 in relation to insulin resistance in African American males.

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between insulin resistance and apoB100 metabolism in African American males. Fifteen subjects, 33 ± 7.6 years old, were divided into two groups, insulin-resistant (IR) or insulin-sensitive (IS), based on the sum of the plasma insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test. The IR group (n = 8) differed significantly from the IS group (n = 7) with respect to body mass index (BMI) (30.1 vs 23.1 kg/m2; P = 0.0003), fasting triglycerides, (118 vs 54 mg/dl, P = 0.013), and total plasma apolipoprotein B100 (80 vs 59 mg/dl, P = 0.014). Significantly elevated apoB100 levels in the IR group were seen in very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) (5.1 vs 3.4 mg/dl, P = 0.045) and intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL) (18 vs 12 mg/dl, P = 0.017) but not in low density lipoprotein (LDL) (57 vs 46 mg/dl, P = 0.19). Total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein A-I, ...
Manganese in Narragansett Bay1

Concentrations of dissolved manganese and particulate mangancsc and aluminum were determined in samples from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, and its surrounding rivers. Total manganese is approximately conservative, but dissolved and particulate manganese are not. Desorption may occur in the tidal rivers at low salinities. Most riverine manganest is dissolved but mangancsc in the bay is predominantly particulate, probably due to rapid manganese oxidation at bay water pH. The flux of dissolved manganese into bottom waters was about 2 + 1 pg cm-’ d”. Con
The Sec1/Munc18 Protein, Vps33p, Functions at the Endosome and the Vacuole of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The Sec1/Munc18 (SM) family of proteins is thought to impart compartmental specificity to vesicle fusion reactions. Here we report characterization of Vps33p, an SM family member previously thought to act exclusively at the vacuolar membrane with the vacuolar syntaxin Vam3p. Vacuolar morphology of vps33Δ cells resembles that of cells lacking both Vam3p and the endosomal syntaxin Pep12p, suggesting that Vps33p may function with these syntaxins at the vacuole and the endosome. Consistent with this, vps33 mutants secrete the Golgi precursor form of the vacuolar hydrolase CPY into the medium. We also demonstrate that Vps33p acts at other steps, for vps33 mutants show severe defects in endocytosis at the late endosome. At the endosome, Vps33p and other class C members exist as a complex with Vps8p, a protein previously known to act in transport between the late Golgi and the endosome. Vps33p also interacts with Pep12p, a known interactor of the SM protein Vps45p. High copy PEP7/VAC1 suppresses vacuolar morphology defects of vps33 mutants. These findings demonstrate that Vps33p functions at multiple trafficking steps and is not limited to action at the vacuolar membrane. This is the first report demonstrating the involvement of a single syntaxin with two SM proteins at the same organelle.
Exogenous NADPH Increases Cerebral Blood Flow Through NADPH Oxidase–Dependent and –Independent Mechanisms

Objective— NADPH, a substrate for the superoxide-producing enzyme NADPH oxidase, produces vasodilation in the cerebral circulation. However, the mechanisms of the effect have not been fully elucidated. We used a peptide inhibitor of NADPH oxidase (gp91ds-tat) and null mice lacking the gp91phox subunit of NADPH oxidase to examine the mechanisms of the cerebrovascular effects of exogenous NADPH. Methods and Results— Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was assessed by laser-Doppler flowmetry in anesthetized mice equipped with a cranial window. Superfusion with NADPH increased CBF (27% at 100 μmol/L) without affecting the EEG. The CBF increase was attenuated by the free-radical scavenger MnTBAP (−54%, P <0.05) but not by the H2O2 scavenger catalase. The response was also attenuated by gp91ds-tat (−64%, P <0.05) and by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N ω-nitro-l-arginine (−44%, P <0.05). The increase in CBF produced by NADPH was attenuated in gp91-null mice (−41%, P <0.05). NADPH increased production of reactive oxygen species, assessed by hydroethidine microfluorography, an effect blocked by MnTBAP or gp91ds-tat and not observed in gp91-null mice. Conclusions— These data suggest that the mechanisms of the CBF increases produced by exogenous NADPH are multifactorial and include NADPH oxidase–dependent and –independent factors.
Distributed multi-dimensional hidden Markov models for image and trajectory-based video classifications

In this paper, we propose a novel multi-dimensional distributed hidden Markov model (DHMM) framework. We first extend the theory of 2D hidden Markov models (HMMs) to arbitrary causal multi-dimensional HMMs and provide the classification and training algorithms for this model. The proposed extension of causal multi-dimensional HMMs allows state transitions in arbitrary causal directions and neighbors. We subsequently generalize this framework further to non-causal models by distributing the non-causal models into multiple causal multi-dimensional HMMs. The proposed training and classification process consists of the extension of three fundamental algorithms to multi-dimensional causal systems, i.e. (1) expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm; (2) general forward-backward (GFB) algorithm; and (3) Viterbi algorithm. Simulation results performed using real-world images and videos demonstrate the superior performance, higher accuracy rate and promising applicability of the proposed DHMM framework.
Non-asymptotic performance analysis of eigenstructure spectral methods

A nonasymptotic theoretical analysis for the performance of eigenstructure spectral methods for direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation is proposed. The performance analysis is based on perturbation analysis of covariance eigenstructure and directions-of-arrival. The performance is expressed in terms of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the number of snapshots, and other parameters including source locations, sensor locations, and sensor gains without utilizing asymptotic conditions. From the expression, it is proved that the absolute bias and the variance of MUSIC direction-of-arrival estimation is inversely proportional to signal-to-noise ratio and to the number of snapshots. Simulations confirm the inverse proportional relationship under conditions including a small-number of snapshots. >
Embryonic and post-embryonic utilization and subcellular localization of the nuclear receptor SpSHR2 in the sea urchin

SpSHR2 (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus steroid hormone receptor 2) is a nuclear receptor, encoded by a maternal RNA in the sea urchin embryo. These maternal SpSHR2 transcripts, which are present in all cells, persist until the blastula stage and then are rapidly turned over. A small fraction of the embryonic SpSHR2 protein is maternal, but the majority of this nuclear receptor in the embryo is the product of new synthesis, presumably from the maternal RNA after fertilization. In agreement with the mRNA distribution, the SpSHR2 protein is also detected in all embryonic cells. Contrary to the RNA though, the SpSHR2 protein persists throughout embryonic development to the pluteus stage, long after the mRNA is depleted. Following fertilization and as soon as the 2-cell stage, the cytoplasmic SpSHR2 protein enters rapidly into the embryonic nuclei where it appears in the form of speckles. During subsequent stages (from fourth cleavage onward), SpSHR2 resides in speckled form in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm of the embryonic cells. The cytoplasmic localization of SpSHR2 differs between polarized and non-polarized cells, maintaining an apical position in the ectoderm and endoderm versus a uniform distribution in mesenchyme cells. Following the end of embryonic development (pluteus stage), the SpSHR2 protein is depleted from all tissues. During the ensuing four weeks of larval development, the SpSHR2 is not detected in either the larval or the rudiment cells which will give rise to the adult. Just prior to metamorphosis, at about 35 days post-fertilization, the protein is detected again but in contrast to the uniform distribution in the early embryo, the larval SpSHR2 is specifically expressed in cells of the mouth epithelium and the epaulettes. In adult ovaries and testes, SpSHR2 is specifically detected in the myoepithelial cells surrounding the ovarioles and the testicular acini. Nuclear SpSHR2 in blastula extracts binds to the C1R hormone response element in the upstream promoter region of the CyIIIb actin gene indicating that the latter may be a target of this nuclear receptor in the sea urchin embryo.
The Relative Importance of Competition and Predation Varies with Productivity in a Model Community

Recent theory predicts that productivity can influence the relative importance of predation and competition in determining patterns in abundance, diversity, and community structure. In low- productivity systems, competition is predicted to be the major in- fluence on community patterns, while at high productivity, the major influence is predicted to be predation. We directly tested this theory using a laboratory model community. Our model community con- sisted of the bacteriophage T2 (a virus that feeds on Escherichia coli) and two populations of E. coli, in glucose-limited chemostats. One E. coli population consisted of individuals that were sensitive to pre- dation by T2 ("vulnerable" E. coli), and the other population con- sisted of individuals that were partially resistant to predation by T2 ("less vulnerable" E. coli). We manipulated productivity in this ex- periment by running replicate chemostats with different input con- centrations of glucose. Our observations were consistent with the- oretical predictions. We observed the decline of the more vulnerable prey population at higher productivity but not at lower productivity, and the decline of the less vulnerable prey population at lower pro- ductivity but not at higher productivity. However, the rate of decline in some replicates was slower than predicted, and extinctions were not observed during the experiments, contrary to theoretical pre- dictions. We present some testable hypotheses that might explain the slow rate of decline observed.
A LARGE SCREEN DIGITIZER SYSTEM FOR RADIATION THERAPY TREATMENT PLANNING

Abstract Purpose : This paper describes a new technique for manually drawing contours of anatomy over image data for the purposes of radiation therapy treatment planning. Methods and Materials : A large area rear-projectible digitizer tablet is used together with a projection TV system to display computer graphics and image data. Large images of computed tomography or magnetic resonance cross-sections are displayed and the digitizer is used to directly trace outlines of important organs. Digitizer menus allow multiple functions for selecting images and structures, for changing the grayscale level and window, and for zooming and roaming the image. Results : This device has been in clinical operation for many years and has proven to greatly increase the speed of entering cross-sectional outlines defined for serial computed tomography images sets. A small timing study of clinical usage demonstrates up to a factor of ten improvement in the speed of contour entry. Conclusion : For 3-dimensional radiation therapy, tumor, and target volumes, as well as important critical organs, must be delineated from serial sets of computed tomography or magnetic resonance images. Often 30 or more slices must be considered and the process of outlining structures on this number of slices can represent a significant fraction of the total treatment planning time. The device described in this paper greatly improve the ease and speed of manual contour entry for 3-dimensional radiation therapy planning.
EGF Receptor Inhibition by Erlotinib Increases Aquaporin 2–Mediated Renal Water Reabsorption

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is caused by impairment of vasopressin (VP) receptor type 2 signaling. Because potential therapies for NDI that target the canonical VP/cAMP/protein kinase A pathway have so far proven ineffective, alternative strategies for modulating aquaporin 2 (AQP2) trafficking have been sought. Successful identification of compounds by our high–throughput chemical screening assay prompted us to determine whether EGF receptor (EGFR) inhibitors stimulate AQP2 trafficking and reduce urine output. Erlotinib, a selective EGFR inhibitor, enhanced AQP2 apical membrane expression in collecting duct principal cells and reduced urine volume by 45% after 5 days of treatment in mice with lithium-induced NDI. Similar to VP, erlotinib increased exocytosis and decreased endocytosis in LLC-PK1 cells, resulting in a significant increase in AQP2 membrane accumulation. Erlotinib increased phosphorylation of AQP2 at Ser-256 and Ser-269 and decreased phosphorylation at Ser-261 in a dose-dependent manner. However, unlike VP, the effect of erlotinib was independent of cAMP, cGMP, and protein kinase A. Conversely, EGF reduced VP–induced AQP2 Ser-256 phosphorylation, suggesting crosstalk between VP and EGF in AQP2 trafficking and a role of EGF in water homeostasis. These results reveal a novel pathway that contributes to the regulation of AQP2–mediated water reabsorption and suggest new potential therapeutic strategies for NDI treatment.
Beyond Palliation: Therapeutic Applications of 153 Samarium-EDTMP

Primary and metastatic malignant bone lesions result in significant pain and disability in oncology patients. Targeted bone-seeking radioisotopes including 153 Samarium ethylene-diamine-tetramethylene-phosphonic acid ( 153 Sm-EDTMP) have been shown to effectively palliate bone pain, often when external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) is not feasible. However, recent evidence also suggests 153 Sm-EDTMP has cytotoxic activity either alone or in combination with chemotherapy or EBRT. 153 Sm-EDTMP may be useful as anti-neoplastic therapy apart from pain palliation in a variety of malignancies. For prostate cancer patients, several phase I and II clinical trials have shown that combined 153 Sm-EDTMP and docetaxel-based chemotherapy can result in >50% decrease in prostate- specific antigen with manageable myelosuppression. In hematologic malignancies, 153 Sm-EDTMP produced clinical responses when combined with bortezomib in multiple myeloma. 153 Sm-EDTMP also can be used with myeloablative chemotherapy for marrow conditioning prior to stem cell transplant. In osteosarcoma, 153 Sm-EDTMP infusion delivers radiation to multiple unresectable lesions simultaneously and provides local cytotoxicity without soft tissue damage that can be combined with chemotherapy or radiation. Prior to routine incorporation of 153 Sm-EDTMP into therapeutic regimens, we must learn how to ensure optimal delivery to tumors, determine which patients are likely to benefit, improve our ability to assess clinical response in bone lesions and further evaluate the efficacy of 153 Sm-EDTMP in combination with chemotherapy, radiation and novel targeted agents.
Hypophagia among hospitalized elderly.

A prospective study was done in 21 hospitalized medical patients to determine the effects of age and gender on food intake. From precise weighing of food served and uneaten, macronutrients and micronutrients ingested during the hospital stay were determined. Even though the hospital diet served was adequate in energy and protein, 38% of the patients ingested less than 65% of their nutritional requirements, with a higher percentage of those with inadequate intake among the elderly than among the young (28% vs. 10%). Patients over 65 years of age ingested less energy and protein than those under 65 years of age (1,167 vs. 1,967 kcal, p
Lectotypification of the Enigmatic Sagina fontinalis (Caryophyllaceae)

ABSTRACT Examination of the protologue of Sagina fontinalis (Caryophyllaceae) revealed that at least two gatherings were mentioned, making it necessary to select a lectotype.
Defeating Manipulation Arguments: Interventionist causation and compatibilist sourcehood

We use recent interventionist theories of causation to develop a compatibilist account of causal sourcehood, which provides a response to Manipulation Arguments for the incompatibility of free will and determinism. Our account explains the difference between manipulation and determinism, against the claim of Manipulation Arguments that there is no relevant difference. Interventionism allows us to see that causal determinism does not mean that variables outside of the agent causally explain her actions better than variables within the agent, whereas the causal source of a manipulated agent’s actions instead lies outside of the agent in the intentions of the manipulator. As a result, determined agents can have free will and be morally responsible in a way that manipulated agents cannot, contrary to what Manipulation Arguments conclude. In this way, our account demonstrates not only how Manipulation Arguments fail but also how compatibilism can be strengthened by means of a plausible account of causal sourcehood.
The Classification of Cloud Forms

If clouds occurred in a naturally limited number of forms, like regular polyhedrons, the problem of classifying them would be simple. Such, however, is not the case. Clouds occur in an infinite variety of forms, and the classifications that have been devised to describe them bear the stamp of human and fallible notions about their appearance, origin, and structure. Order in clouds is the product of man’s will, and man’s will can change it.
Terrestrial Broadband Wireless Telecommunications

Most wireless telecommunications systems operate in a full duplex mode. That is, a channel carries information from a central node to an end‐user, and another channel is used for the reverse communications. Duplex operation is possible using orthogonality in either frequency or time domains. Given a certain channel capacity in each cell a number of users may be connected to a base station. Several multiplexing technologies were developed over the first to fourth generations of mobile communications standards to connect multiple devices to a base station. Terrestrial wireless telecommunications systems resolve two challenges: one operating in channel conditions where signals are blocked by physical objects, and where multiple signal arrivals can lead to fading. The other is allocation of scarce bandwidth resources among large number of simultaneous users. Technology development over some four decades has not only made terrestrial wireless telecommunications possible, but highly competitive with fixed broadband.
Joint and selective periodic component carrier assignment for LTE-A

The bandwidth demand for mobile Internet access is significantly increased with the number of mobile users. Carrier aggregation has been proposed to answer this demand in mobile networks. In carrier aggregation, the best available one or more component carriers of each band are assigned to each user to provide efficient services. Several works have been reported in the literature on mandatory and periodic component carrier assignment methods. Although the former works, especially periodic component carrier assignment methods, have significantly improved the performance of LTE-A systems, many limitations still exist. One limitation of previous works is that data transfer is interrupted during periodic component carrier assignment operations thus, decrease the performance of the system. Therefore, in this paper, selective periodic component carrier assignment technique, which allows continuous data transfer during periodic carrier assignment operations, is proposed and followed by integration of selective technique into four component carrier assignment methods: Least Load, Least Load Rate, Random, and Channel Quality to observe the performance improvements. Results indicate that the proposed selective technique increases the throughput ratio up to 18% and decreases average delay up to 50%. Our analysis and proposed technique will assist service providers to build efficient periodic component carrier assignment methods to improve the performance of the system by reducing delay and increasing throughput ratio.
Correcting Postprandial Hyperglycemia in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats With an SGLT2 Inhibitor Restores Glucose Effectiveness in the Liver and Reduces Insulin Resistance in Skeletal Muscle

Ten-week-old Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats at an early stage of diabetes embody metabolic characteristics of obese human patients with type 2 diabetes, such as severe insulin and glucose intolerance in muscle and the liver, excessive postprandial excursion of plasma glucose and insulin, and a loss of metabolic flexibility with decreased lipid oxidation. Metabolic flexibility and glucose flux were examined in ZDF rats during fasting and near-normal postprandial insulinemia and glycemia after correcting excessive postprandial hyperglycemia using treatment with a sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2-I) for 7 days. Preprandial lipid oxidation was normalized, and with fasting, endogenous glucose production (EGP) increased by 30% and endogenous glucose disposal (E-Rd) decreased by 40%. During a postprandial hyperglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp after SGLT2-I treatment, E-Rd increased by normalizing glucose effectiveness to suppress EGP and stimulate hepatic glucose uptake; activation of glucokinase was restored and insulin action was improved, stimulating muscle glucose uptake in association with decreased intracellular triglyceride content. In conclusion, SGLT2-I treatment improves impaired glucose effectiveness in the liver and insulin sensitivity in muscle by eliminating glucotoxicity, which reinstates metabolic flexibility with restored preprandial lipid oxidation and postprandial glucose flux in ZDF rats.
A Wolbachia Deubiquitylating Enzyme Induces Cytoplasmic Incompatibility

Wolbachia are obligate intracellular bacteria1 that infect arthropods, including approximately two-thirds of insect species2. Wolbachia manipulate insect reproduction by enhancing their inheritance through the female germline. The most common alteration is cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI)3-5, where eggs from uninfected females fail to develop when fertilized by sperm from Wolbachia-infected males. By contrast, if female and male partners are both infected, embryos are viable. CI is a gene-drive mechanism impacting population structure6 and causing reproductive isolation7, but its molecular mechanism has remained unknown. We show that a Wolbachia deubiquitylating enzyme (DUB) induces CI. The CI-inducing DUB, CidB, cleaves ubiquitin from substrates and is encoded in a two-gene operon, and the other protein, CidA, binds CidB. Binding is strongest between cognate partners in cidA-cidB homologues. In transgenic Drosophila, the cidA-cidB operon mimics CI when sperm introduce it into eggs, and a catalytically inactive DUB does not induce sterility. Toxicity is recapitulated in yeast by CidB alone; this requires DUB activity but is rescued by coexpressed CidA. A paralogous operon involves a putative nuclease (CinB) rather than a DUB. Analogous binding, toxicity and rescue in yeast were observed. These results identify a CI mechanism involving interacting proteins that are secreted into germline cells by Wolbachia, and suggest new methods for insect control.
Desprendimiento prematuro de placenta

OBJECTIVE: To determine maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality caused by abruptio placentae at the Obstetrical Service, Dos de Mayo Hospital, during years 1990 through 1995. DESIGN: Descriptive study, reviewing maternal clinical histories and neonatology registry. RESULTS: During this period 133 cases of abruptio placentae ocurred, incidence 0,77%; 68 histories were found. Most frequent age varied from 20 to 30 years (57,2%), almost 50% were term pregnancies, most did not have pre natal control ot it was insufficient (70,5%), parity was less than two (63,1%). Most frequent concomitant pathology was hypertensive disease (41,1%). Major symptomatology consisted in hemorrhage (64,7%), perinatal mortality was about 50%, with severe asphyxia in most of newborns. Neonatal morbidity consisted in infections, with sepsis in 12,1%. There was no maternal mortality. Puerperal morbidity was due to preeclampsia-eclampsia (16,1%) and fever (13,2%). CONCLUSION: -Perinatal mortality is high, infections are important cause of neonatal and puerperal morbidity in abruptio placentae.
The Impact of Hospital Volume on Racial Differences in Complications, Readmissions, and Emergency Department Visits Following Total Joint Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Minority patients are at higher risk for complications and readmissions after total hip and knee arthroplasty. They are also more likely to undergo joint replacement in lower volume centers, which is associated with poorer outcomes. It is unknown whether these disparities simply reflect disproportionate use of lower volume centers. This study evaluates the impact of hospital volume on racial differences in outcomes following joint replacement. Methods Patients who underwent total hip or knee arthroplasty between 2006 and 2013 in New York and Florida were identified through the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Inpatient Databases. Complications, readmissions, and emergency department (ED) visits within 90 days were compared by hospital volume. Relative risks were calculated with generalized estimating equations for risk factors associated with adverse outcomes. Results Race/ethnicity was not associated with readmission following hip replacement. Black race was associated with readmission following knee replacement (relative risk [RR] 1.16). Black race was associated with ED visits following hip replacement (RR 1.29) and knee replacement (RR 1.33). Hispanic ethnicity was associated with ED visits following knee replacement (RR 1.15), but not hip replacement. These associations did not change after adjusting for hospital volume. Conclusion Adjusting for hospital volume does not alter the risk of readmissions and ED use associated with minority race/ethnicity, suggesting that hospital volume alone may be insufficient to explain racial differences in outcome.
Outcomes of adenoidectomy-alone in patients less than 3-years old

Abstract Objectives 1. Determine the percentage of patients under the age of 3 undergoing adenoidectomy-alone who require subsequent management of residual sleep disordered breathing (SDB).2. Characterize complications following adenoidectomy and determine if any perioperative factors are associated with intra-operative or post-operative complications and outcomes. Methods Case series with chart review was conducted including children seen at a tertiary care children's hospital between 2008 and 2012. Consecutive patients under the age of 3 who underwent adenoidectomy-alone were identified by billing codes. After excluding those with syndromes, partial adenoidectomies, and those without follow-up, 148 patients were included. Predictors of requiring additional surgery for SDB were evaluated using log-rank tests or Cox proportional hazards regression. Results Median age at time of initial adenoidectomy was 27.5 months (range 11–36 months) and the patient population was comprised of 66.2% males (n = 98/148) and 89.2% Caucasians (n = 132/148). 56.5% (n = 74/131) of patients continued to have residual symptoms of SDB and 34.5% (n = 51/148) underwent additional surgical intervention. Multivariable survival analysis revealed GERD (HR, 6.21; CI, 1.29–29.77, p = .022) and tonsil size (HR, 4.07; CI, 1.57–10.51, p = .004) were significant predictors of additional surgery in this group of patients under the age of 3. There was no observed difference in intra- and post-operative complication rates between patients with and without additional operative intervention. Conclusions Residual SDB symptoms following adenoidectomy in patients less than 3 years of age are common and require additional surgery at a high rate. Medical comorbidities such as GERD and large tonsil size may help predict the need for additional surgery.
General Energetics of Chemical Reactions

Previous chapters dealt with the relationship between driving forces and flows of different nature. All of these were vectorial. Frequently, complex systems, such as living cells or industrial plants, also encompass zones in which the scalar processes of chemical reactions take place. To include these chemical-reaction events in the energetic analysis of the systems, it is necessary to fit chemical reactions into the force-flow scheme and the flow-coupling relationship developed for vectorial flows. This is indeed possible and is discussed in this chapter. First, the chemical analogues to vectorial flows and generalized driving forces are defined, followed by discussion of reciprocity relations in a system of simple, coupled chemical reactions.
EMG Variance During Polysomnography As An Assessment For REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

Study Objectives: In a previous study, we validated a polysomnographic assessment for REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD). The method proved to be reliable but required slow, labor-intensive visual scoring of surface electromyogram (EMG) activity. We therefore developed a computerized metric to assess EMG variance and compared the results to those previously published for visual scoring, bed partner-rated RBD symptom scores, and clinical assessments by sleep medicine specialists.
Legislative Basis. Recognition. Marriage. Residence Abroad. Extradition

According to Article 2 of the 1978 citizenship statute, “the legislation of the USSR on Soviet citizenship consists of the present Law, defining in conformity with Article 23 of the USSR Constitution the grounds and procedure for acquiring and losing Soviet citizenship, and other legislative acts of the USSR”. The reference to “other legislative acts of the USSR” is interesting because it implies the possibility that further legislation on the subject might be forthcoming: in fact, of course, some supplementary instructions intended to clarify the method of application of various provisions of the 1978 statute have already been issued. Whether the cryptic statement concerning additional legislative activity means a medley of such ancillary measures, ad hoc edicts dealing with special cases involving citizenship status, and occasional clauses in legislation addressed to different themes (e.g., the federal Fundamentals of legislation on marriage and the family), or more ambitious ventures into the field of citizenship regulation is not clear from the letter of the law. On the whole, the first alternative sounds likelier.
Duality principle in linearized rational approximation

We prove a duality theorem for linearized rational approximation similar to the theorem for rational approximation proved by G. Gierz and the author earlier.
Tactual discrimination of softness: abilities and mechanisms

The ability of human subjects to discriminate softness was investigated. In addition, the associated mechanistic cues and the peripheral neural codes on which the discrimination may be based were investigated using monkeys. Two sets of compliant objects were constructed: (1) those with a deformable surface, composed of transparent silicone rubber of variable softness; (2) rigid plates supported by springs of variable compliance in cylindrical sleeves. To assess the relative contributions of tactile and kinesthetic information, psychophysical experiments were performed on human subjects under both active and passive touch, with or without local anesthesia that blocked the tactile information from the fingerpads. The results for objects with deformable surfaces show that whereas the subjects are quite good at discriminating subtle differences in softness under both active and passive touch without anesthesia, they are unable to discriminate even large differences under active touch with anesthesia. Therefore, we conclude that the discrimination is based entirely on tactile information. The mechanistic data for rubber specimens indicates that the basis for the perception of softness of rubber-like objects is likely to be the spatio-temporal variation of pressure on the skin (or, equivalently, the skin displacement and its derivatives). Neurophysiological data shows that the resulting responses from slowly adapting type I afferent population within the skin might encode the compliance of the objects. For compliant objects with rigid surfaces best discrimination was achieved only with active touch, due to the availability of both tactile and kinesthetic information; under passive conditions, the absence of kinesthetic information resulted in considerable deterioration of discriminability
The Boltzmann Transport Equation

We are not interested in the motion of each particle in detail but instead in the distribution function f(x, p, t), which is defined so that $$\displaystyle{f(\mathbf{x},\mathbf{p},t){d}^{3}\mathbf{x}{d}^{3}\mathbf{p}}$$ is the number of particles dN in the phase space volume \((\mathbf{x} + {d}^{3}\mathbf{x},\mathbf{p} + {d}^{3}\mathbf{p})\) about the point (x, p) at some time t.
The Development of the Human Hippocampal Formation Correlated with some Aspects of its Phylogenetic History

The few extensive developmental studies on the human hippoeampal formation either have dealt primarily with early differentiation (Hines, 1922) or emphasized later development (Macchi, 1951). Consequently they have not completely demonstrated the manner in which the gyrus dentatus develops or its layers differentiate. Correlations between developmental stages of the parts of the human hippoeampal formation and its subdivisions in submammalian vertebrates are few (Rose, 1926; Tilney, 1938), although more general correlations are often made (e.g., Kuhlenbeck a. Domarus, 1920). Before attempting correlations, however, it is necessary to consider the terminology to be used and the most significant literature.
Possessive White Male Nostalgia: Louis Begley’s About Schmidt

As Sally Robinson explains in her landmark study of recent novels written by white American men in which the protagonists undergo identity crises, such novels often complain that the rise of identity-bound claims among disempowered groups constitutes an unwarranted attack on white men. In Louis Begley’s About Schmidt (1996), the protagonist’s enactment of proper WASP masculinity, objectifying sexism, and genteel bigotry reflects a steady longing for an earlier era, in which entitled, grasping, competitive behavior was conducted at the expense, and with the seemingly subservient acquiescence, of gendered and ethnoracially subordinated others. Begley suggests the personal costs of stubborn adherence to white supremacist patriarchal ideology and that a common reaction among the era’s entitled, middle-aged white men was to reflect nostalgically on earlier times in which their possessive tendencies did not seem under fire.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a triad of thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolysis, and acute kidney injury, within the broader category of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). The most common form of HUS in children is due to Shigatoxin-producing E. coli infection, although other forms due to invasive pneumococcal disease, genetic defects in complement regulation, and cobalamin C metabolism also occur. As the many forms of TMA share overlapping clinical features through the common pathomechanism of endothelial cell injury, laboratory investigation is warranted to provide additional diagnostic insight. Secondary forms of TMA also share clinical features with HUS, and although uncommon in children, should be excluded by careful assessment of the patient’s history and laboratory evaluation.
Abstract P103: Hepatocyte Depolarization Induces a Pressor Response

Obesity and the resulting hepatic lipid accumulation increase the incidence of hypertension. In obese adults, the prevalence of excessive hepatic lipid accumulation exceeds 80%. Hepatic lipid accum...
Misdiagnosis of multiple sclerosis in a female heterozygote with Fabry's disease.

Abstract Fabry's disease is an X-linked disorder of enzyme alpha-galactosidase A which leads to an accumulation of the glycolipids in lysosomes in vessels and organs. The disorder is rare with an estimated incidence of 1 in 40,000 and disease occurs more rarely in women than men. Paresthesias, hearing loss, and stroke are the typical neurological manifestations. Brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities may mimic those seen in multiple sclerosis (MS). Reported here is one of the rarely reported cases of Fabry's disease in a female heterozygote mistaken for MS.
$(0,1)$-matrices, discrepancy and preservers

Let m and n be positive integers, and let R = (r1, . . . , rm) and S = (s1, . . . , sn) be nonnegative integral vectors. Let A(R,S) be the set of all m × n (0, 1)-matrices with row sum vector R and column vector S. Let R and S be nonincreasing, and let F(R) be the m × n (0, 1)-matrix, where for each i, the ith row of F(R,S) consists of ri 1’s followed by (n−ri) 0’s. Let A ∈ A(R,S). The discrepancy of A, disc(A), is the number of positions in which F(R) has a 1 and A has a 0. In this paper we investigate linear operators mapping m × n matrices over the binary Boolean semiring to itself that preserve sets related to the discrepancy. In particular, we show that bijective linear preservers of Ferrers matrices are either the identity mapping or, when m = n, the transpose mapping.
Bullying and interpersonal conflict from a “dialogic event” perspective

Through discussions in class meetings of “concrete situations” experienced by students in their lived experience in and out of the classroom, educators have been encouraged to guide students to understand how bullying applies to their lives, and to learn the degree to which bullying is present or absent in their relationships with their peers (Olweus, 1993). In observations of and interviews about the class meetings at a private, progressive U.S. middle school, student and teacher discourses in response to students’ interpersonal dynamics are found to exist within separate, parallel universes. The teachers’ discourse universe presumes that the lived experience of students can be understood through and guided by abstract, Kantian-like moral universal imperatives – specifically, the imperative to “feel good” and the imperative not to bully. These imperatives supplant dialogue on the events of students’ experiences toward a focus on who the students are becoming rather than who they are now. This discourse of “half-being” maps the students’ experiences upon what is known, predictable, universal, unsurprising and imagined, and assumes that students are not fully responsible for their own or each other’s well-being. By contrast, the students’ discourse on their interpersonal dynamics is characterized by Bakhtin’s (1993) notion of “being-as-event” discourse, which is highly contextualized, unpredictable, and focuses upon everyone’s responsibility to ongoing dramatic and ontologically charged events (either immediate or recursive in nature). The students’ discursive universe is conducive to dialogue, whereas the teachers’ discursive universe supplants the students’ messy, unpredictable and dialogically responsible discourse, thus arresting the possibility for teachers and peers to provide meaningful and authoritative guidance to dialogic events. The reasons for teachers’ attraction to Kantian-like abstract moral universals as well as the consequences of the supplanting of students’ event-filled discourse with the discourse of bullying are discussed
Domoic acid disruption of neurodevelopment and behavior involves altered myelination in the spinal cord

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) produce potent neurotoxins that threaten human health. Early life exposure to low levels of the HAB toxin domoic acid (DomA) produces long-lasting behavioral deficits, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. Using zebrafish, we investigated the developmental window of susceptibility to low doses of DomA and examined cellular and molecular targets. Larvae exposed to DomA at 2 days post-fertilization (dpf), but not at 1 or 4 dpf, showed consistent deficits in startle behavior including reduced responsiveness and altered kinematics. Similarly, myelination in the spinal cord was disorganized after exposure only at 2 dpf. Time-lapse imaging revealed disruption of the initial stages of myelination. DomA down-regulated genes required for maintaining myelin structure and the axonal cytoskeleton. These results identify a developmental window of susceptibility to DomA-induced behavioral deficits involving altered gene expression and disrupted myelin structure, and establish a zebrafish model for investigating the underlying mechanisms.
The impact of menthol flavoring in combusted tobacco on alternative product purchasing: A pilot study using the Experimental Tobacco Marketplace.

Abstract Introduction Menthol cigarette smokers may switch to other combusted products like menthol little cigars and cigarillos (LCCs) or switch to non-combusted products like menthol vapes if menthol cigarettes are banned or otherwise restricted. This pilot study used a behavioral economics task to understand (a) menthol cigarette demand across a range of increasing prices in the context of available alternative products and (b) how the availability of menthol LCCs affected cigarette demand and alternative product substitution. Methods Menthol smokers completed the Experimental Tobacco Marketplace task during two sessions. Cigarettes, LCCs, smokeless tobacco, vapes, and medicinal nicotine were available from an online store. The price of menthol cigarettes increased across trials while the prices of the alternative products remained constant. Menthol LCCs were available in one session and excluded in the other. Cross-price elasticity beta estimates identified significant product substitutes. Results When menthol LCCs were available, increasing the price of menthol cigarettes led to substitution with non-menthol cigarettes (β = 0.65, 95%CI = 0.34, 0.96), menthol little cigars (β = 0.39, 95%CI = 0.08, 0.70), and menthol vapes (β = 0.26, 95%CI = 0.16, 0.35). When menthol LCCs were not available, increasing the price of menthol cigarettes led to substitution with non-menthol cigarettes (β = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.08, 1.11), non-menthol cigarillos (β = 0.62, 95%CI = 0.19, 1.04), and menthol vapes (β = 0.13, 95%CI = 0.08, 0.18). Conclusions As the price of menthol cigarettes increased, demand for menthol cigarettes decreased and demand for combusted and non-combusted products increased, indicating significant substitution for menthol cigarettes. Policies targeting menthol combusted tobacco could result in some menthol smokers switching to non-combusted products like vaping devices.