cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of lateralized dynamic stimuli on unilateral spatial neglect following right hemisphere lesions

Patients with unilateral (left-sided) spatial neglect following right-hemisphere stroke were tested for the effects of visual stimulation on performance of a line-bisection task. As predicted from research on brain mechanisms of spatial orientation and attention, dynamic visual stimuli presented on the left side substantially reduced neglect in the task. In contrast, left sided static stimuli reduced neglect significantly less and dynamic stimuli presented in the center had no effect on neglect. Neglect patients with hemianopia did not show significantly less benefit of left-sided dynamic stimuli compared to neglect patients without hemianopia, suggesting that the effect of these stimuli was unconscious and automatic. The potential advantages of lateralized dynamic stimuli in the rehabilitation of neglect are discussed.
Evaluation, differential diagnosis, and treatment of xerostomia

The salivary component of Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is defined as xerostomia (dry mouth). However, xerostomia is a common symptom associated with quantitative and qualitative changes in saliva, which are generally referred to as salivary hypofunction. This can be caused by various systemic diseases (including SS), anticholinergic effects of many drugs, psychological conditions, and physiological changes. Chronic salivary hypofunction is clinically significant because it can cause oral dysfunction, dental destruction, and mucosal infection. Evaluating patients complaining of xerostomia requires particular attention to their current medications and physical examination of the major salivary glands, teeth, and oral mucosa. Based on that information and the differential diagnosis of salivary hypofunction, appropriate tests can then be selected to develop a final diagnosis. Effective treatment of patients with chronic salivary hypofunction requires a combination of: (1) ongoing dental decay prevention and treatment supervised by their dentist; (2) salivary flow stimulation; (3) recognition and treatment of chronic oral candidiasis; (4) selective use of saliva substitutes; and (5) prescription drug review.
Frequency and Voltage Tuning of Series–Series Compensated Wireless Power Transfer System to Sustain Rated Power Under Various Conditions

In a wireless power transfer (WPT) system, voltage tuning and frequency tuning are two major methods to control the output power. For the design of a WPT system at the rated power, it is crucial to understand the characteristics of a WPT system with a constant-power load (CPL) under voltage tuning and frequency tuning. The model of a series–series compensated WPT system with a CPL is established based on the Thevenin equivalent circuits. The conditions to achieve the maximum coil-to-coil efficiency for the two tuning methods are obtained. For frequency tuning, the tuning zone above the resonant frequency is selected because of its wide tuning range and zero-voltage switching. The maximum output power at different operating frequencies is derived, and the required inverter dc voltage and the tuning range for a target output power can be obtained accordingly. With a strong coupling, the maximum efficiency of frequency tuning can be as high as that of voltage tuning; while with a weak coupling, the efficiency of frequency tuning is much smaller than that of voltage tuning. The model with a CPL is helpful for the design and optimization of a WPT system with the rated power.
Analytical study on quantifying the magnitude and rate of subgrade fines migration into subbase under flexible pavement

Abstract Particle transport and subsequent deposition in porous media play a significant role in the performance of civil infrastructure. For example, in pavement systems, the migration (also known as pumping) of fine-grained soil from saturated subgrades into subbase layers can compromise the pavement serviceability and performance. In this paper, an analytical framework is formulated to understand the mechanisms of particle transport in pavements and to provide a reasonable prediction of the amount of fines migration from a saturated pavement subgrade to subbase. The model is verified using results from a set of experimental investigations previously conducted to quantify the magnitude and rate of subgrade fines migration. The tests were performed on two classes of flexible pavement roadways, using one-third scale model mobile load simulator (MMSL3), an accelerated pavement testing (APT) device. Non-plastic saturated silt and partially saturated aggregate were used as subgrade and subbase, respectively. The study suggests that the migration of the subgrade soil into subbase is governed by hydraulic condition, grain size of subgrade, grain size and pore size of subbase, permeability of subbase, and viscosity of pore fluid in the subbase. Moreover, magnitude and duration of applied loads play key roles in the amount of pumping in pavement.
How Need for Power Explains Why Narcissists Are Antisocial

To date, no research has examined need for power as a reason why narcissists engage in antisocial behavior. The purpose of the current research is to examine need for power as a potential mediating...
NP14 Use of Online Videos with Feeding Content to Enhance an EFNEP Program in Preventing Childhood Obesity

Objective Parental behaviors that impede children from paying attention to their own cues of fullness can promote obesity in children. Family focused prevention programs are valuable because these programs have the ability to promote better parenting behaviors that lead to the development of better child eating patterns. Recently interest in delivering such programs online has increased. However, numerous challenges arise in applying such programs to low-income, minority participants. Parenting content was developed to add to an established nutrition education program for low-income families. Eating Smart • Being Active is a nutrition education program used across the US by the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). Our objective will be to describe the process used to develop videos, games, activities, and infographics as part of parenting content delivered online to low-income parents of children (ages 2 to 8 years). Description The process of developing program materials was guided by self-determination theory. Parenting strategies were embedded in the final materials including: tips for grocery shopping with children; feeding practices encouraging acceptance of new foods; determining child portions; ways to support internal child cues of fullness; instituting mealtime routines; awareness of cues to eat in the outside environment; and identifying parent and child feeding roles. Online videos, games, activities, and infographics were formatted to be viewed through smartphones (English and Spanish). Evaluation Challenges came to light during piloting of the online program. We addressed these challenges by: developing a user-friendly interface; providing clear instructions and processes for low-income parents to access online materials; ensuring effective communication between participants, in-class educators, and online facilitators; and tracking participant involvement and engagement. Conclusion and Implications Specific ways we addressed the multiple challenges in developing and implementing the online program will be described. Preliminary data from our randomized control trial conducted in six EFNEP regions across Colorado and Washington with 550 low-income parents will be presented.
Parental Perceived Facilitators for and Barriers to Participating in a Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Early Childhood Obesity: A Qualitative Evaluation:

This study aimed to examine low-income mothers' perceived facilitators for and barriers to participating in a lifestyle intervention. A phenomenography approach was used to individually interview 14 mothers from Midwestern U.S. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Drawing on the socio-ecological model, mothers' perceived facilitators included (a) intrapersonal factors including providing helpful information, being accommodating, motivating, and novel; (b) interpersonal factors, including two-way communication between mothers and preschoolers, social connectedness among mothers, and a positive relationship between mothers and researchers; and (c) environmental factors, including kid-friendly, and pleasant and comfortable intervention sites. Mothers' reported barriers were intrapersonal factors including (a) use of technology due to unreliable Wi-Fi access and unfamiliarity of electronic device, (b) being "busy moms" due to busy schedules and stressful daily lives, and (c) lack of reliable transportation. Future interventions to reduce early childhood obesity among low-income families should consider these identified facilitators and barriers.
Doxil (D), Vincristine (V), Reduced Frequency Dexamethasone (d) and Revlimid(R) (DVd-R) Results in a High Response Rate in Patients with Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RMM).

Background: The combination of DVd with Thalidomide (T) results in a high response rate (greater than 80% with about 50% of patients achieving a CR or NCR) in multiple myeloma. Revlimid, an immunomodulatory drug (IMiD) is active in patients with MM. We previously reported on a phase I trial of DVd-R in patients with MM, in which the maximum tolerated dose of R was 10mg daily. Methods: The DVd-R regimen was given as follows: on day 1 D was given at 40 mg/m2 IVPB; V at 2 mg IVP; d at 40 mg PO daily for 4 days, R was started at 10mg daily. R was given for 21 days consecutively. For the first cycle R was started 7 days prior to chemotherapy, while it was started on day 1 on subsequent cycles (cycle 1 was 35 days). DVd was planned every 28 days for 2 cycles after best response or a minimum of 4 cycles. Maintenance therapy consisted of R +/− Prednisone 50 mg Qod. All patients received amoxicillin, acyclovir and aspirin 81mg prophylactically. Responses were assessed based on the criteria set forth by SWOG. Patients: The study accrued 58 patients to date (36 refractory and 22 relapsed patients), 45 are evaluable for response. The median patient age at the start of the study is 62 years and 74% are males. The median number of prior chemotherapeutic regimen is 3 (range 1–7), 67% of patients had progressed after a Thalidomide containing regimen, 70% had received a VAD like regimen and 17% had received a prior autologous stem cell transplant. The median time from diagnosis to study entry is 39 month (range 5–182). Eighty six percent had Durie Salomon stage III. The mean serum B2microglobin was 6.6mg/dL (s.d.4.2). Results: The median number of cycles of DVd-R delivered was 4. Of evaluable patients, 6 patients had a CR (13%), 5 had a NCR (11%), 16 had a PR (35%), 11 had stable disease (24%), and 7 had progressive disease (15%) as their best response. The median time to best response was 38 days. After a median follow up of 7.3 month (range 0–24 months), 23 patients had progressive disease and 16 patients had died. Fifty two percent of refractory patients (19/36) had a response on DVd-R. Grade 3 and 4 leukopenia occurred in 24% and 15% respectively, however febrile neutropenia occurred in only 1 patient. Grade 3 and 4 infections occurred in 26% and 3% respectively (all but one were pneumonia). Grade 3 thrombocytopenia occurred in 20%. Venous thromboembolic events occurred in 5 patients (9%) (2 patients with pulmonary embolus and 4 with deep venous thrombosis). Grade 3 neuropathy occurred in 3 patients (no patients had grade 4 neuropathy). Two patients developed grade 3 tumor lysis syndrome. Conclusion: DVd-R is an effective chemotherapeutic regimen in patients with RMM who progressed or did not respond to VAD like regimens or to Thalidomide containing regimens, produces a high response rate among chemotherapy resistant patients, and has a manageable toxicity profile. The results will be updated at the time of the meeting.
Repair of Juxtarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm with Aortorenal Bypass

During open repair of juxtarenal AAA, clamp injury to the suprarenal aorta necessitated proximal aortic balloon occlusion and a simultaneous aorto-left renal bypass graft. Indications and limitations of transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches are discussed.
Effectiveness of a combined 308-nm excimer lamp and topical mid-potent steroid treatment for facial vitiligo: a preliminary, randomized double-blinded controlled study

Facial vitiligo has considerable psychological and emotional impacts. Though topical corticosteroids are the mainstay treatment, adverse reactions are a concern for prolonged use. Additionally, 308-nm excimer lamps have been widely used in vitiligo. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a combined 308-nm excimer lamp and topical steroid therapy compared with the lamp alone for treating facial vitiligo. Symmetrical, nonsegmental facial vitiligo subjects were recruited. All facial lesions were irradiated with a 308-nm excimer lamp twice weekly for a total of 24 sessions. The lesions on each side of the face were randomly allocated to have topical mometasone furoate cream or the cream base alone applied once daily for 12 weeks. Clinical improvement was evaluated by a blinded dermatologist and the participants. A total of sixteen sides of the face were assessed in the study. By the 12th week, 87.5% of the lesions treated with the combination regimen and 50% of the lesions treated with monotherapy showed good to excellent repigmentation. From the subjects’ perspectives, there were significant differences between both treatments at week 4 and week 8 (p = 0.05) but not at week 12. No serious adverse effects were reported. A combination of excimer lamp therapy and once-daily application of topical mometasone cream was effective and could accelerate the treatment outcomes without serious adverse reactions. This may be an alternative regimen for treating facial vitiligo.
Corrigendum: An accurate and efficient laser-envelope solver for the modeling of laser-plasma accelerators Plasma Phys. Control. Fusion 60 014002

Author(s): Benedetti, C; Schroeder, CB; Geddes, CGR; Esarey, E; Leemans, WP | Abstract: We would like to correct a misprint1 present in equation (1) of our paper [1]. The correct equation reads (Formula Presented).
Ab initio lattice thermal conductivity of Mg Si O 3 across the perovskite-postperovskite phase transition

Lattice thermal conductivity (${\ensuremath{\kappa}}_{\mathrm{lat}}$) of $\mathrm{Mg}\mathrm{Si}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ postperovskite (MgPPv) under the Earth's lower mantle high pressure-temperature conditions is studied using the phonon quasiparticle approach by combing ab initio molecular dynamics and lattice dynamics simulations. Phonon lifetimes are extracted from the phonon quasiparticle calculations, and the phonon group velocities are computed from the anharmonic phonon dispersions, which, in principle, capture full anharmonicity. It is found that throughout the lowermost mantle, including the D'' region, ${\ensuremath{\kappa}}_{\mathrm{lat}}$ of MgPPv is \ensuremath{\sim}25% larger than that of $\mathrm{Mg}\mathrm{Si}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ perovskite (MgPv), mainly due to MgPPv's higher phonon velocities. Such a difference in phonon velocities between the two phases originates in the MgPPv's relatively smaller primitive cell. Systematic results of temperature and pressure dependences of both MgPPv's and MgPv's ${\ensuremath{\kappa}}_{\mathrm{lat}}$ are demonstrated.
Are Radiology Educators Using Technology Appropriately

Abstract Technology has allowed for numerous innovations in radiology education. These include, but are not limited to audience response systems, online resources such as YouTube channels, and social media platforms like Twitter. Judicious use of these tools is necessary to best stimulate real-world practice in radiology to optimally educate radiology trainees.
Elevation and Child Linear Growth in Nepal

The relationship between elevation of residence and a child's linear growth was studied using data for 8824 children below the age of 5 years born between 2001 and 2016 at elevations ranging from 50 to 3200 m above sea level in Nepal. Multiple regression was used to measure the role of a variety of household and community factors in explaining the observed elevation effect. A negative association was found between elevation and linear growth that varied substantially across the sample but retained a significant marginal effect across model specifications. Controlling for household wealth, access to markets, indoor air quality, and a range of other factors associated with elevation, for each 1000 m gain in elevation, height for age z score (HAZ) declined by between 0.10 and 0.20 points for an average child, and by between 0.35 and 0.42 points for a child with the characteristics of those living at the highest elevations. Results underscore the potential developmental risks for children living at high elevations and call attention to factors that help to mitigate these risks.
Isogeometric schemes in rarefied gas dynamics context

Abstract Geometrical complexity is typical of missile and reentry systems, small-scale devices with intrinsic milli-to-micro scale features, or in general topology-rich systems. Additionally, at high altitudes or at microscales, when the flow becomes rarefied, the conventional continuum/macroscopic equations produce unsatisfactory results. A microscopic/kinetic description becomes necessary. In this work, we introduce isogeometric (IG) kinetic schemes (KS) for the full Boltzmann equation and related kinetic models (Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook (BGK), Ellipsoidal statistical BGK, and Shakov). These schemes are specifically aimed for modeling flows in topologically complex “multi-patch” geometries such as those constructed using computer-aided geometric design tools; high order accurate; unconditionally time-stable (as per our tests) following generalized- α method; non-linearly stable following streamlined upwind Petrov–Galerkin method applied at every patch level with patch-to-patch coupling enforced either strongly by constraining the interface using single degree of freedom, or weakly using numerical fluxes as in discontinuous Galerkin (useful because the underlying system is first order in space); amenable to nearly-linear parallel efficiency owing to the six-dimensional nature of Boltzmann equation, wherein the convection and collision can be, respectively, performed simultaneously over velocity and physical spaces. In particular, since the surface representation is exact in IG, when surface properties are to be computed, which is often the case in aerodynamic applications, these schemes perform well. A series of verification tests for 1D/2D/3D-3V initial–boundary value and boundary-value flow problems, involving momentum, energy, and diffusive transport , including problems posed on non-conforming domains/patches, is performed to illustrate the stability and accuracy of the proposed method.
The latest advances on nonlinear insulator-based electrokinetic microsystems under direct current and low-frequency alternating current fields: a review.

This review article presents an overview of the evolution of the field of insulator-based dielectrophoresis (iDEP); in particular, it focuses on insulator-based electrokinetic (iEK) systems stimulated with direct current and low-frequency(< 1 kHz) AC electric fields. The article covers the surge of iDEP as a research field where many different device designs were developed, from microchannels with arrays of insulating posts to devices with curved walls and nano- and micropipettes. All of these systems allowed for the manipulation and separation of a wide array of particles, ranging from macromolecules to microorganisms, including clinical and biomedical applications. Recent experimental reports, supported by important theoretical studies in the field of physics and colloids, brought attention to the effects of electrophoresis of the second kind in these systems. These recent findings suggest that DEP is not the main force behind particle trapping, as it was believed for the last two decades. This new research suggests that particle trapping, under DC and low-frequency AC potentials, mainly results from a balance between electroosmotic and electrophoretic effects (linear and nonlinear); although DEP is present in these systems, it is not a dominant force. Considering these recent studies, it is proposed to rename this field from DC-iDEP to DC-iEK (and low-frequency AC-iDEP to low-frequency AC-iEK). Whereas much research is still needed, this is an exciting time in the field of microscale EK systems, as these new findings seem to explain the challenges with modeling particle migration and trapping in iEK devices, and provide perhaps a better understanding of the mechanisms behind particle trapping.
Bacteriostatic Action of Progesterone on Staphylococci and Other Microorganisms

Yotis, William (Loyola University, Hines, Ill.), and Ronald Stanke. Bacteriostatic action of progesterone on staphylococci and other microorganisms. J. Bacteriol. 92:1285–1289. 1966.—Progesterone has been examined in vitro for antibacterial activity against 10 microorganisms. Turbidimetric and manometric techniques were used to assay the antibacterial activity of progesterone. The organisms tested consisted of Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Gaffkya tetragena, Bacillus subtilis, Listeria monocytogenes, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Aerobacter aerogenes, Salmonella paratyphi, and Proteus vulgaris. Antibacterial action was shown by progesterone only against the gram-positive microorganisms when they were grown in tryptic soy broth containing 10 to 20 μg of progesterone per ml. Pregnenolone, 4-pregnen-20β-ol-3-one, and 5α-pregnane also possessed antistaphylococcal properties, whereas pregnanolone, pregnandione, 11α-hydroxyprogesterone, and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone did not. The bacteriostatic action of progesterone on staphylococci was exerted primarily during the first 8 hr of incubation, and it was reduced in the presence of oxygen. In the presence of 20 μg of progesterone per ml, there was significant reduction in the oxidation by resting staphylococcal suspensions or utilization by staphylococci of pyruvate as an energy source during growth.
Automatic Creation of Environment Models via Training

Model checking suffers not only from the state-space explosion problem, but also from the environment modeling problem: how can one create an accurate enough model of the environment to enable precise yet efficient model checking? We present a novel approach to the automatic creation of environment models via training. The idea of training is to take several programs that use a common API and apply model checking to create abstractions of the API procedures. These abstractions then are reused on subsequent verification runs to model-check different programs (which utilize the same API). This approach has been realized in SLAM, a software model checker for C programs, and applied to the domain of Windows device drivers that utilize the Windows Driver Model API (a set of entry points into the Windows kernel). We show how the boolean abstractions of the kernel routines accessed from a device driver are extracted and merged into a boolean library that can be reused by subsequent model checking runs on new drivers. We show that the merged abstraction is a conservative extension of the boolean abstractions created by training.
Nerve ultrasound identifies abnormalities in the posterior interosseous nerve in patients with proximal radial neuropathies

Introduction: The radial nerve and posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) are prone to injury at multiple sites. Electrodiagnostic (EDx) studies may only identify the most proximal lesion. Nerve ultrasound could augment EDx by visualizing additional pathology. Methods: This investigation was a retrospective examination of ultrasound and EDx from 26 patients evaluated for posterior cord/radial/PIN lesions. Results: Eighteen of 26 patients had abnormalities on EDx (15 radial, 2 PIN, 1 posterior cord). Ultrasound identified 15 of 18 (83%) of the EDx abnormalities and provided additional diagnostic information. In 6 of 15 (40%) patients with EDx evidence of radial neuropathy, ultrasound identified both radial nerve enlargement and additional, unsuspected PIN enlargement (53% to 339% enlarged vs. unaffected side). Ultrasound also identified: nerve (dis)continuity at the trauma site (n = 8); and nerve tumor (n = 2; 1 with normal EDx). Conclusion: In radial neuropathy, ultrasound often augments EDx studies and identifies a second lesion in the PIN. Further studies are required to determine the etiology and significance of this additional distal pathology. Muscle Nerve 53: 379–383, 2016
Kaiser Permanente's manifesto 2005 demonstration: the promises and limits of devolution.

Summary In 1996, the eight-million member Kaiser Permanente HMO adopted a vision statement that said by 2005 it would expand its services to include home- and community-based services for its members with disabilities. It funded a 3-year, 32-site demonstration that showed that it was feasible to link HMO services with existing home-and community-based (HCB) services and that members appreciated the improved coordination and access. This private-sector project showed that devolution can produce innovative and feasible models of care, but it also showed that without federal financial and regulatory support, such models are unlikely to take hold if they are focused on “unprofitable” populations, for example, those who are chronically ill, poor, and/or disabled.
Synergistic Effects in Sonochemical Sterilization

The synergistic effects observed during the sterilization of Bacillus subtilis var. niger ATCC 9372 by the combined action of ethylene or propylene oxide with high-intensity airborne sound waves (34.8 kc/sec) were investigated. It has been shown that the number of surviving spores deposited on paper strips decreases exponentially with the sound intensity at sample level. Reductions of the order of one-third of the time required for standard propylene oxide sterilization have been observed by using the combined action of sound waves with gaseous sterilization. At the present time, maximal synergistic effects seem to be achieved for the following experimental conditions: propylene oxide concentration, 500 to 1,000 mg/liter; acoustic intensity, 161 to 162 db; contact time, 80 min; temperature, 60 C; and relative humidity, 40%. The basic mechanism involved in sonochemical sterilization seems to be more of a physical (accelerated gas diffusion) than a chemical nature.
Growth in spending for substance abuse treatment services for the privately insured population

Background Through 2009, private-sector spending on substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services has been a small and stable portion of commercial health-care spending (0.4% in 2003 to 2009). This study examines growth in spending for SUD treatment services extended through 2012 among the privately insured, to assess changing patterns in light of parity legislation, changes in the economy, and availability of new treatments.
Seismic Response of Horizontal Soil Layers

Methods of analysis of the response of soil deposits during earthquakes are presented. These methods include linear elastic analyses, a bilinear analysis, and an equivalent linear analysis. All these methods require that: (1) The surface of the layer, the interface between any two sublayers and the base of the layer be essentially horizontal, (2) the material properties of the layer be constant along any horizontal plane, and (3) the applied seismic excitation be also horizontal. The closed-form solutions are utilized to evaluate the accuracy and stability of the lumped-mass analysis and criteria for the accuracy and stability of the lumped-mass representation are proposed. A lumped-mass representation is also used for the analysis of soil layers having bilinear stress-strain characteristics. Finally, a procedure is outlined for obtaining equivalent linear parameters for soils with bilinear stress-strain characteristics. The results obtained by this procedure are shown to be in good agreement with those determined by the bilinear solution.
Science in the New Age: The Paranormal, Its Defenders and Debunkers, and American Culture

Science in the New Age: The Paranormal, Its Defenders and Debunkers, and American Culture. David Hess. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1993. ISBN 0-299-13824-0 (p) 0-299-13820-8 (c) $42.50 (cloth), $17.95 (paper).
Occupational Therapists and the Teaching of Cognitive Behavioral Skills

Cognitive-behavioral techniques involve the teaching of skills needed for effective perforrnance of life roles. As such, the teaching of cognitive-behavioral skills in a group setting is proposed as a useful area in which occupational therapist might gain expertise. An understanding of behavioral therapy, cognitwe therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy provides the theory base. Definitions of communication skills, assertive training, problem solving and feeling management, together with the cognitive and behavioral skills taught in each, provide the subject matter. A case study exemplifies the way in which cognitive-behavioral techniques are useful in implementing the treatment plans of day treatment patients.
4‐Ethyl‐2,6,7‐trioxa‐1‐phosphabicyclo[2.2.2]octane

[824-11-3] C6H11O3P (MW 162.12) InChI = 1S/C6H11O3P/c1-2-6-3-7-10(8-4-6)9-5-6/h2-5H2,1H3 InChIKey = QRUSNTDXJQBKBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N (small cone angle (101°) ligand used in palladium-catalyzed reactions) Alternative Names: trimethylolpropane phosphite, ethyl bicyclic phosphite, ETPO, TMPP, EtCage. Physical Data: mp 55–56 °C.1 Purification: distillation. Form Supplied in: solid.
The Nagorno Karabakh Conflict through the Prism of the Image of the Enemy

The post-Soviet space is fraught with multiple problems, risks and threats caused by unresolved conflicts. The vast majority of these conflicts possess a strong ethno-political component that complicates all the conflict resolution attempts: neglect of the role of ethnicity in interstate and intrastate conflicts can lead to overt conflict on the one hand and a deadlocked situation in respect to all mediation on the other hand. This article focuses upon the role and impact of ethnicity factor and the ways in which it is exploited and manipulated. The Nagorno Karabakh conflict serves as the major empirical case.
Toxicokinetics of domoic acid in the fetal rat

Domoic acid (DA) is a potent neurotoxin that has both marine wildlife and human health impacts, including developmental effects during prenatal exposure in rodent models. However, little is known regarding DA toxicokinetics in the fetal unit during maternal-fetal transfer. Tissue distribution and toxicokinetics of DA were investigated in pregnant rats and their pups just prior to birth at gestational day 20. Pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were given an intravenous dose of 1.0 mg DA/kg and samples of maternal plasma, fetal plasma, placenta, amniotic fluid and fetal brain were taken at intervals over 24 h. Toxicokinetic parameters were determined using WinNonLin software analysis. Maternal plasma DA log concentration-time curves fit a two compartment pharmacokinetic profile, with alpha and beta half-lives of elimination of 26.9 and 297 min, respectively. Placenta had a C(max) of 752 ng/mL and a terminal half-life of 577 min. Maternal-fetal transfer between the plasma compartments was 31% with a fetal plasma C(max) of 86 ng/mL at 60 min and terminal half-life of 553 min. Amniotic fluid and fetal brain had overall averages of 27±12 ng/mL and 8.12 ng/g, respectively, and did not show evidence of elimination over 24 h. The longer fetal retention of DA, particularly in amniotic fluid, indicates that the fetus may be continually re-exposed during gestation, which could potentially lead to a disease state even at small exposure dose. This has implications for the California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), which exhibit an epilepsy-like disease that arises months after DA producing blooms.
The Aging of Biomedical Research in the United States

In the past 30 years, the average age of biomedical researchers has steadily increased. The average age of an investigator at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) rose from 39 to 51 between 1980 and 2008. The aging of the biomedical workforce was even more apparent when looking at first-time NIH grantees. The average age of a new investigator was 42 in 2008, compared to 36 in 1980. To determine if the rising barriers at NIH for entry in biomedical research might impact innovative ideas and research, we analyzed the research and publications of Nobel Prize winners from 1980 to 2010 to assess the age at which their pioneering research occurred. We established that in the 30-year period, 96 scientists won the Nobel Prize in medicine or chemistry for work related to biomedicine, and that their groundbreaking research was conducted at an average age of 41—one year younger than the average age of a new investigator at NIH. Furthermore, 78% of the Nobel Prize winners conducted their research before the age of 51, the average age of an NIH principal investigator. This suggested that limited access to NIH might inhibit research potential and novel projects, and could impact biomedicine and the next generation scientists in the United States.
Progressive white matter destruction following irradiation of an extracranial neoplasm

Although numerous "cures# have been reported following surgical extirpation of symptomatic foci of cerebral radiation nerosis, delayed progressive white matter destruction and neurological deterioration may occur in some patients who survive for prolonged periods after operation. The postoperative appearance on CT scans of hypodensity within heavily irradiated white matter structures at a distance from the initial radionecrotic focus or operative site suggests continuing radiation-induced tissue injury and a poor prognosis. Anticipated survival as well as administered radiation dose must be taken into account when "safe# radiation thresholds are calculated.
Surgical Experience With Cardiac Papillary Fibroelastoma Over a 15-Year Period

Background Papillary fibroelastomas are rare, benign cardiac tumors. They are predominantly asymptomatic. However, they can lead to serious complications, namely thromboembolic events. Symptomatic lesions can be managed primarily with surgical excision and valvular preservation. Controversy exists as to the management of asymptomatic lesions. Methods All patients diagnosed with cardiac papillary fibroelastoma between 1996 and 2012 at a single institution were queried for clinical and pathologic characteristics. Results Twenty-three patients with 29 lesions were identified. Most lesions were solitary, less than 1.0 cm in diameter, and occurred in patients greater than 60 years of age. The most common presentation was thromboembolic complication. All were managed successfully with surgical excision. One patient developed a recurrence or metachronous lesion within 3 months of initial surgical intervention. Conclusions Papillary fibroelastomas are rare, benign, predominantly asymptomatic cardiac tumors that can cause potentially serious complications. The natural history and etiology of papillary fibroelastomas are largely unknown. Controversy exists over the management of asymptomatic lesions. However, there is consensus that symptomatic lesions should undergo surgical excision with valvular preservation when possible. A unique case of a possible papillary fibroelastoma recurrence is also described.
Classification of remote Pacific coral reefs by physical oceanographic environment

[1] The oceanographic environment is a key element in structuring coral reef ecosystems by setting the range of physical and chemical conditions in which coral reef-builders live. A cluster analysis of physical and chemical oceanographic data is used to classify coral habitats in the remote tropical and subtropical Pacific Ocean based on average temperature, temperature seasonal cycle, nutrient levels, salinity, aragonite saturation state, storm frequency, intense hurricane hits, and dissolved oxygen as well as temperature anomalies in degree heating weeks. The resulting seven geographic habitats are stable to perturbations in types of data used in the cluster analysis. Based on recent coral reef survey data in the area, the coral cover was related to the identified geographic regions. The habitats tend to be geographically clustered, and each is characterized by a unique combination of oceanographic conditions. Previous studies suggest coral reef habitats are associated with a uniform array of oceanographic conditions, while our results demonstrate that finer-scale variations in physical variables may control coral reef environments. The results better define the physical environment of remote coral reefs, forming a foundation for future work addressing physical habitat perturbation and anthropogenic impacts on reefs.
NV-TCAM: Alternative interests and practices in NVM designs

TCAM (ternary content addressable memory) is a special memory type that can compare input search data with stored data, and return location (sometime, the associated content) of matched data. TCAM is widely used in microprocessor designs as well as communication chip, e.g., IP-routing. Following technology advances of emerging nonvolatile memories (eNVM), applying eNVM to TCAM designs becomes attractive to achieve high density and low standby power. In this paper, we examined the applications of three promising eNVM technologies, i.e., magnetic tunneling junction (MTJ), memristor, and ferroelectric memory field effect transistor (FeMFET), in the design of nonvolatile TCAM cells. All these technologies can achieve close-to-zero standby power though each of them has very different pros and cons.
Amorphous transition metal carbides

Abstract Titanium carbide films were deposited by chemical vapor deposition from tris(2,2'-bipyridine)titanium. Other films of titanium carbide and niobium carbide were obtained by electron beam vaporization of the corresponding crystalline compound. X-ray and electron diffraction studies showed that the structure of the deposits ranged from microcrystalline to amorphous. The coatings were analyzed by secondary ion mass spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis. The results of these studies lead to an understanding of the formation and nature of the films. The objective is to modify the mechanical properties of brittle transition metal carbides.
A note on stochastic approximation algorithms in system identification

This correspondence considers the application of stochastic approximation algorithms to a broad class of system identification problems. Both asymptotic and initial convergence properties of the algorithms are discussed. A suboptimal procedure for parameter selection and a means of convergence acceleration are suggested.
Performance Enhancement in the Terminal Phases of Rehabilitation

Context: There is a dearth of literature on the performance enhancement in the recovering athlete in the terminal phases of rehabilitation. There are established training methods that target strength, power, speed, endurance, and metabolic capacity that all lead to performance enhancement.Evidence Acquisition: A PubMed search from 1980 to 2010 was undertaken for articles in English. Additional references were accrued from reference lists of research articles.Results: Multiple options are available to improve strength, power, speed, endurance, and metabolic capacity during rehabilitation.Conclusion: Sports clinicians have several components to address in the rehabilitation of a recovering athlete in addition to performance enhancement. Sports clinicians should focus their efforts on increasing power, a product of maximum force and speed of performance.
Influence of phase morphology on the sliding wear of polyethylene blends filled with carbon nanofibers

In this work, phase separation in carbon nanofiber (CNF) composites with a blend of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was revealed, and its effects on tribological properties were investigated. Results from morphological analysis by optical and scanning electron microscopy indicated two distinct microstructures: a dispersed UHMWPE phase and a continuous microstructure containing HDPE and CNFs. The addition of CNFs into the UHMWPE/HDPE blend induced a decreased steady-state torque indicative of a decreased dissolution and improved processability. Because CNFs predominantly resided into the HDPE phase, neat HDPE, a HDPE/CNF composite, and neat UHMWPE samples were also prepared for comparison. Wear results, determined by a pin-on-disk apparatus, showed that both initial run-in and steady-state wear rates of the UHMWPE/HDPE/CNF nanocomposites were reduced with an increasing concentration of CNFs. The wear resistance of the UHMWPE/HDPE blend was more strongly influenced than neat HDPE by the addition of CNFs, which may have been affected by a reduced dissolution and improved interfacial interaction between the two phases. Results from this study suggested that HDPE may not be appropriate for processing UHMWPE composites, as CNFs reside in the HDPE phase, and HDPE diminishes the wear resistance of the material. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
BACODINE The real‐time BATSE gamma‐ray burst coordinates distribution network

The real‐time transmission of the data from the C‐GRO spacecraft allows for access to the BATSE instrument data that can be used to make simultaneous or near‐simultaneous multi‐band observations of Gamma‐Ray Bursts (GRBs). We discuss a system that (1) monitors this telemetry stream, (2) extracts the appropriate information from the BATSE portion, (3) detects the occurrence of a GRB, (4) calculates the approximate coordinates for the burst, and (5) distributes those coordinates to instruments, observatories, and other interested parties. This is done with custom hardware plus software located at the Goddard Space Flight Center mission operations center for C‐GRO. The maximum time delay between the arrival of the GRB photons at the BATSE detectors and the calculation of the coordinates is 5.5 seconds. The accuracy of the calculated coordinates is ±10 degrees. The coordinates can be distributed by dedicated phone connections, by direct computer‐to‐computer socket connections, and by e‐mail to any automated, optical telescope systems with wide field‐of‐view capabilities. This rapid distribution of coordinates (0.3 to 30 sec) allows for a 5 to 6 order of magnitude improvement over previous efforts in the response time of follow‐up observations of the optical emission of GRBs. This greatly increases the likelihood of optical flash detection and hence, of the quiescent counterpart identification of GRBs.
Helicoid end‐to‐side and oblique attachment technique in repair of the musculocutaneous nerve injury with the phrenic nerve as a donor: An experimental study in rats

The purpose of this study was to identify if a modified end-to-side repair can achieve equal results of nerve regeneration compared to an end-to-end repair using donor phrenic nerves in repair of the musculocutaneous nerve and also pulmonary protection. Eighteen rats were divided into three groups of six each comparing two nerve graft techniques: helicoid end-to-side plus distal oblique repair vs. traditional end-to-end repair, using a donor phrenic nerve. The saphenous nerve was used as a graft between the phrenic nerve and the musculocutaneous nerve. The third group was used as control; the musculocutaneous nerve was transected without any repair. Three months postoperatively, electrophysiology, tetanic force, moist muscle weight, histology, nerve fiber counting, and chest X-ray were evaluated. All results have shown that this modified end-to-side repair was superior to the end-to-end repair. The former did not compromise the diaphragm function, but the latter showed an elevation of the diaphragm. Little recovery was seen in the third group. The conclusion is that this modified end-to-side repair can replace the traditional end-to-end repair using donor phrenic nerves with better results of nerve regeneration without diaphragm compromise. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Honesty and Heroes: A Positive Psychology View of Heroism and Academic Honesty

Academic honesty is under-researched in contrast to academic dishonesty. A majority of students self-report cheating in college. A low probability of punishment is reflected by few tried cases of academic misconduct. The authors argue that students who are in the minority by not engaging in academic dishonesty show considerable character strength and are examples of everyday heroes. The authors consider heroes persons who are courageous, have empathic concern for others, and have a high degree of honesty. Experiment 1 established courage, empathy, and honesty as predictors of academic honesty. Experiment 2 replicated these findings and found heroism to be predictive of students' future intent to cheat. These experiments have constructed an effective working model of heroism in the context of the academic environment.
New approach to interstage care for palliated high-risk patients with congenital heart disease

Objective Home surveillance monitoring might identify patients at risk for interstage death after stage 1 palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome. We sought to identify the effect that a high-risk program might have on interstage mortality and identification of residual/recurrent lesions after neonatal palliative operations. Methods Between January 2006 to January 2010, newborns after stage 1 palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome or shunt placement were invited to participate in our high-risk program. Patients enrolled in our high-risk program comprise the study group. Patients who had similar operations between January 2002 and December 2005 comprise the control group. Comparisons are made between the 2 groups with respect to interstage mortality and the frequency and timing of interstage admissions requiring medical, catheter, or surgical treatment. Results Seventy-two patients met the criteria for our high-risk program. Fifty-nine (82%) of 72 patients were enrolled. Among 19 patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome in our high-risk program, outpatient interstage mortality was zero. Outpatient interstage mortality for the 36 control subjects with hypoplastic left heart syndrome was 6%. Among 40 patients with shunts in the study group, there was 1 outpatient interstage death compared with 4 (6%) deaths in 68 subjects in the control group. Significant residual/recurrent lesions were identified with similar frequency between the 2 groups. However, after shunt operations, these lesions were detected and treated at significantly younger mean ages for patients followed in the high-risk program ( P Conclusions Initiation of a high-risk program might decrease interstage mortality after high-risk neonatal palliative operations. Such an approach might contribute to earlier detection of significant residual/recurrent lesions amenable to therapy.
Uptake of radiolabeled essential amino acids by brain following arterial injection.

Summary14C-labeled amino acids were injected into rat common carotid artery mixed with 3H2O, with decapitation 15 sec later. The ratio of 14C to 3H in brain was compared with the same ratio in the injected solution allowing expression of brain uptake of amino acid as a percentage of 3H2O uptake. Eighteen amino acids showed a range of uptake between 2.24 and 54.5%. Those amino acids ordinarily considered nutritionally essential in the rat are taken up to a greater extent than nonessentials. The exception is tyrosine which is not nutritionally essential to the total organism because it is available from hydroxylation of phenylalanine. The large uptake of tyrosine by brain may be related to the absence in brain of phenylalanine hydroxylase thus necessitating an external source.