cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Potential impact of Affordable Care Act-related insurance expansion on trauma care reimbursement.

BACKGROUNDNearly one quarter of trauma patients are uninsured and hospitals recoup less than 20% of inpatient costs for their care. This study examines changes to hospital reimbursement for inpatient trauma care if the full coverage expansion provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) were in effec
Phenotype Transformation of Aortic Valve Interstitial Cells Due to Applied Shear Stresses Within a Microfluidic Chip

Despite valvular heart diseases constituting a significant medical problem, the acquisition of information describing their pathophysiology remains difficult. Due to valvular size, role and location within the body, there is a need for in vitro systems that can recapitulate disease onset and progression. This study combines the development of an in vitro model and its application in the mechanical stimulation of valvular cell transformation. Specifically, porcine aortic valvular interstitial cells (PAVIC) were cultured on polydimethylsiloxane microfluidic devices with or without exposure to shear stresses. Mechanobiological responses of valvular interstitial cells were evaluated at shear stresses ranging from 0 to 4.26 dyn/cm2. When flow rates were higher than 0.78 dyn/cm2, cells elongated and aligned with the flow direction. In addition, we found that shear stress enhanced the formation of focal adhesions and up-regulated PAVIC transformation, assessed by increased expression of α-smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor β. This study reveals a link between the action of shear forces, cell phenotype transformation and focal adhesion formation. This constitutes the first step towards the development of co-cultures (interstitial-endothelial cells) on organ-on-a-chip devices, which will enable studies of the signaling pathways regulating force-induced valvular degeneration in microtissues and potential discovery of valvular degeneration therapies.
Robust multi-object tracking with semantic color correlation

Multi-object tracking is an important computer vision task with wide variety of real-life applications from surveillance and monitoring to biomedical video analysis. Multi-object tracking is a challenging problem due to complications such as partial or full occlusions, factors affecting object appearance, object interaction dynamics, etc. and computational cost. In this paper, we propose a detection-based multi-object tracking system that uses a two-step data association scheme to ensure time efficiency while preserving tracking accuracy; a robust but discriminative object appearance model that compares object color attributes using a novel color correlation cost matrix; and a framework that handles occlusions through prediction. Our experiments on UA-DETRAC multi-object tracking benchmark dataset consisting of challenging real-world traffic videos show promising results against state-of-the-art trackers.
Procedure-based postoperative risk prediction using NSQIP data.

Abstract Background The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) has proposed using procedure-based hierarchical models to predict adverse outcomes, but it is not clear whether this approach was used to develop the NSQIP “Surgical Risk Calculator”. We therefore wished to demonstrate how procedure-based hierarchical models can be constructed and to describe their results. Methods NSQIP data from 2015 were used to construct statistical models predicting 30-day postoperative mortality and morbidity, using two-level logistic regression with preoperative patient-level variables as fixed effects and procedure-specific codes as a random intercept. Model performance was validated using NSQIP data from 2014. Results NSQIP for 2015 contained records for 885,502 patients, of whom 8986 died (1.0%) and 104,836 suffered a complication (11.8%). Complete model specifications and results are presented, including odds ratios for patient-level variable effects and random procedure effects. Most comorbidities were associated with increased morbidity and mortality, but overweight and obesity were associated with lower risk. Odds ratios for individual procedures ranged from 0.117 to 10.85 for mortality and from 0.615 to 8.09 for morbidity. Validation C-statistics were 0.940 for the mortality model and 0.833 for the morbidity model; Brier Scores were 0.0086 and 0.085, respectively. Graphs for 20 quantiles showed good conformity of observed and predicted risk. Conclusions Procedure-based hierarchical logistic regression models of NSQIP outcomes had satisfactory overall performance statistics. Model specifications and results are provided for criticism and improvement, and several possible refinements are suggested.
Time-dependent efficiency measurements of polymer solar cells with dye additives: unexpected initial increase of efficiency

We report the effects of the addition of two azo-dye additives on the time-dependent efficiency of polymer solar cells. Although the maximum efficiencies of devices containing different amounts of dye do not vary greatly over the selected concentration range, the time dependence results reveal a surprising initial increase in efficiency in some samples. We observe this effect to be correlated with a leakage current, although a specific mechanism is not yet identified. We also present the measured lifetimes of these solar cells, and find that variations in dye concentrations produce a small effect at most. Characterization of the bulk heterojunction layer (active layer) morphology using atomic-force microscope (AFM) imaging reveals reordering patterns which suggest that the primary effects of the dyes arise via structural, not absorptive, characteristics.
Diffability Hollywood Review

What does disability mean in film? What is life like for a working actor with a visible disability? What are the contradictory ways in which those who self-identify as disabled respond to cinematic portrayals of disability? These are some of the questions explored in filmmaker Adrian Esposito’s remarkable documentary Diffability Hollywood. The film explores representations of disability in film as well as the lives of young performers with disabilities, tracking their careers in film and television. It is a unique work, hosted within the film by Esposito, who himself identifies as autistic. Diffability Hollywood provides a well-rounded historical overview of representations of disability in film.....
Use of a web-based app to improve postoperative outcomes for patients receiving gynecological oncology care: A randomized controlled feasibility trial.

Abstract Objective Nearly 1 in 5 patients hospitalized for ovarian cancer surgery are readmitted for complications that may have been prevented with monitoring. We conducted a randomized controlled feasibility trial to evaluate a postoperative web-based app intervention to provide real-time symptom monitoring among patients diagnosed or with suspected gynecological cancer who had open bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy surgery. Methods Participants were randomized into two groups: (1) App + Reminder: had access to the app, and use was encouraged with daily and/or weekly reminders; (2) app: had access to the app but received no reminders. The app displayed discharge instructions and queried symptoms. Patients' self-reported health information was integrated into their electronic health records. Outcomes above a predetermined threshold triggered alerts that indicated a patient may need medical intervention. Participants completed a questionnaire at baseline and 30-day follow-up. They were also invited to provide qualitative, post-intervention feedback. Results We screened 35 patients, with high rates of recruitment (74%, N = 26) and completion (93%, N = 24). Participants in the App + Reminder group had more frequent app use relative to the app group (p = 0.05). Using differences-in-differences (DID) analysis for quality of life, the App + Reminder group had relative increase in the mental health score (DID = 7.51, p = 0.15) but decrease in the physical health score (DID = −7.49, p = 0.13). Participant feedback suggested the relative decrease in physical quality of life was attributable to the app activating patients' focus on physical symptoms, not the intervention. Conclusion The pilot established feasibility, acceptability, and some potential benefits of a new web-based app intervention for gynecological oncology postoperative care.
Further analysis of health care costs for chiropractic and medical patients.

OBJECTIVE To compare the health care costs of patients who have received chiropractic treatment in insurance plans that do not restrict chiropractic or medical benefits with those treated solely by medical and osteopathic physicians. DESIGN Retrospective statistical analysis of 2 yr of claims data on total insurance payments and total outpatient payments. OUTCOME MEASURES Total insurance payments and total outpatient payments, each adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS Patients receiving chiropractic care experienced significantly lower total health care costs as represented by adjusted third-party payments in the fee-for-service sector. Total adjusted cost differences ranged from $291 to $1722 over the 2-yr period. Total adjusted outpatient costs tended to be slightly lower for medical patients but lower hospital utilization for chiropractic patients more than offsets the additional outpatient costs associated with chiropractic care. CONCLUSIONS The analysis of well-insured patients in plans that do not restrict the chiropractic benefit strengthens results previously reported. In this study, therefore, the favorable cost patterns for chiropractic patients cannot be attributed to insurance restrictions limiting reimbursement for chiropractic services relative to other services. Because adjustments for patient characteristics systematically reduce the cost advantages of chiropractic patients as compared to mean differences derived from unadjusted data, the results also demonstrate that adjusted values should be used for meaningful comparisons between the two groups of patients.
‘For the game, for the world’: An analysis of FIFA’s CSR initiatives:

Given the significant and often negative impacts of sport mega-events on host nations, including high costs and lingering environmental challenges, many event organizers, such as the Federation Int...
Abstract 506: Modulation of ZIC3 Expression in Pluripotent Stem Cells Using CRISPR-interference to Model Heterotaxy

Failure of proper left-right patterning during embryogenesis is an underlying mechanism of congenital heart disease (CHD). Heterotaxy (HTX) is a complex laterality syndrome in which multiple organs...
Low Rank Approximations

A principal components analysis models high dimensional data points with an accurate, low dimensional, model. Now form a data matrix from the approximate points. This data matrix must have low rank (because the model is low dimensional) and it must be close to the original data matrix (because the model is accurate). This suggests modelling data with a low rank matrix.
Creating a new “reality” for medical education: the Nexus Reality Lab for virtual reality

Background: The Technology Team at the Ruth Lilly Medical Library, Indiana University (IU), first started exploring virtual reality (VR) in 2016. In 2017, we began offering weekly sessions dubbed VRidays (“VR Fridays”) to give students an opportunity to experience the technology. We also purchased a portable VR setup that allowed us to demonstrate VR at our regional campuses. Description: To lower the entry barrier to VR, the Technology Team collaborated with the IU Advanced Visualization Lab to establish a reality lab in our collaborative learning space. The lab opened in the fall of 2018 and consists of four high-end VR stations that are accessible to students at any time, but they can also make an appointment for a more guided experience. Information and instructions are available on a LibGuide. Conclusion: We are currently collecting data on the number of unique users and evaluating application usage. We are working on a feedback mechanism and looking to develop collaborative partnerships across the university. Virtual Projects are published on an annual basis in the Journal of the Medical Library Association (JMLA) following an annual call for virtual projects in MLAConnect and announcements to encourage submissions from all types of libraries. An advisory committee of recognized technology experts selects project entries based on their currency, innovation, and contribution to health sciences librarianship.
Adolescents in Child Welfare Systems

Child welfare systems exist to ensure the safety of vulnerable children, including adolescents. Yet, child welfare systems present the leading example of the legal system’s failure to carve out rights that recognize adolescents’ abilities, capacities, and interests. To complicate matters, child welfare systems must simultaneously serve both parents and their children. As a result, child welfare systems are designed with competing goals in mind, such as (1) children need protection from abuse and neglect, (2) children should have stable and permanent living arrangements, (3) parents are in the best position to care for their children, and (4) abusive and neglectful parents need considerable time and support to become suitable parents. These competing goals mean that children’s interests may conflict with those of their parents; they also mean that both parents and children’s interests may conflict with those of child welfare agencies. This chapter examines how these goals work with the developments in constitutional rights. That examination highlights two general types of rights: the right to be left alone and the right to be protected, which are understood as distinctions between negative and positive rights. The cases in this area reveal how the Constitution and the Court embrace negative rights and reject positive rights. That embrace particularly guides the development of child welfare systems, including the government’s power to monitor families, parents’ obligations to affirmatively protect their children, and the government’s power to protect parental rights.
Reporting on Climate Change by Broadcast Meteorologists: A National Assessment

AbstractTelevision weathercasters are uniquely situated to inform their audiences about the local impacts of global climate change and a growing number of them are adopting the role of climate chan...
Reassessment of the Triassic archosauriform Scleromochlus taylori: neither runner nor biped, but hopper

The six known specimens of Scleromochlus taylori and casts made from their negative impressions were examined to reassess the osteological evidence that has been used to interpret Scleromochlus’s locomotion and phylogenetic relationships. It was found that the trunk was dorsoventrally compressed. The upper temporal fenestra was on the lateral surface of skull and two-thirds the size of the lower, the jaw joint posteriorly placed with short retroarticular process, and teeth short and subconical, but no evidence of external nares or antorbital fossae was found. The posterior trunk was covered with ~20 rows of closely spaced transversely elongate dorsal osteoderms. The coracoid was robust and elongate. The acetabulum was imperforate and the femoral head hemispherical and only weakly inturned such that the hip joint was unsuited to swinging in a parasagittal plane. The presence of four distal tarsals is confirmed. The marked disparity of tibial and fibular shaft diameters and of proximal tarsal dimensions indicates that the larger proximal tarsal is the astragalus and the significantly smaller tarsal is the calcaneum. The astragalus and calcaneum bear little resemblance to those of Lagosuchus, and the prominent calcaneal tuber confirms that the ankle was crurotarsal. There is no evidence that preserved body and limb postures are unnatural, and most specimens are preserved in what is interpreted as a typical sprawling resting pose. A principal component analysis of skeletal measurements of Scleromochlus and other vertebrates of known locomotor type found Scleromochlus to plot with frogs, and that finding combined with skeletal morphology suggests Scleromochlus was a sprawling quadrupedal hopper. Phylogenetic analyses found that Scleromochlus was not an ornithodiran, but was either within the Doswelliidae or outside the clade consisting of the most recent common ancestor of the Erythrosuchidae and Archosauria and all its descendants.
Management of Small and Large Bowel Obstructions

Bowel obstruction is one of the most common causes of abdominal pain in the world, with small bowel obstructions accounting for approximately 15% of all admissions for abdominal pain. The problem afflicts the most vulnerable population in general. Pain management cannot be done in isolation quite, and often requires multidisciplinary, multimodal approach to have a safe and comfortable outcome for the patients. Only relying on opioids can worsen the disease, leading to a tricky balance of disease resolution and pain management. In this chapter, we discuss the most common causes of small and large bowel obstruction, the anatomy and pathophysiology of bowel obstruction, different approaches to management of obstruction including surgical and medical interventions, and the different approaches to manage the pain associated with bowel obstruction. We take a look at a wide variety of analgesic techniques, from multimodal medications, to interventional techniques including TAP blocks and epidural catheters.
Justice Kennedy’s Free Speech Jurisprudence: AQuantitative and Qualitative Analysis

In the almost twenty-five years that Justice Anthony M. Kennedy has served on the United States Supreme Court, he has gained a reputation as being the foremost defender of free-speech principles on the modern Court. Indeed, perhaps aside from his jurisprudence defending the rights of sexual minorities, it seems likely that Justice Kennedy’s tenure on the Court shall be remembered most clearly for his contributions to First Amendment jurisprudence. Justice Kennedy has undoubtedly written many important opinions vindicating freespeech rights, from his concurring opinion in International Society for Krishna Consciousness, Inc. v. Lee, to his groundbreaking, albeit controversial, decision in Citizens United v. FEC. On the other hand, Justice Kennedy has also written important opinions rejecting First Amendment claims, including Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. v. FCC and Arkansas Educational Television Commission v. Forbes. Our modest goal in this Article is to determine whether Justice Kennedy’s reputation as a defender of free-speech principles is justified given this mixed history. To that end, we undertake both a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the Supreme Court’s free speech jurisprudence during the period of Justice Kennedy’s tenure on the Court to determine whether Justice Kennedy has been more likely to support free-speech rights than the Court as a whole. This Article first presents a quantitative analysis and then moves to the qualitative analysis.
Innovative Octave-band Double-In-Phase-Fed Franklin Antenna for V/E-band Applications

In this paper, a new method is applied to the Franklin antenna concept in order to enhance the impedance bandwidth to more than an octave and retain the main beam direction in broadside mode within much more bandwidth with less than 3 dB gain fluctuation. Moreover, a very fine-shaped controllable fan-beam pattern is achieved using this technique.
Distinct neuronal populations contribute to trace conditioning and extinction learning in the hippocampal CA1

Trace conditioning and extinction learning depend on the hippocampus, but it remains unclear how neural activity in the hippocampus is modulated during these two different behavioral processes. To explore this question, we performed calcium imaging from a large number of individual CA1 neurons during both trace eye-blink conditioning and subsequent extinction learning in mice. Our findings reveal that distinct populations of CA1 cells contribute to trace conditioned learning versus extinction learning, as learning emerges. Furthermore, we examined network connectivity by calculating co-activity between CA1 neuron pairs and found that CA1 network connectivity patterns also differ between conditioning and extinction, even though the overall connectivity density remains constant. Together, our results demonstrate that distinct populations of hippocampal CA1 neurons, forming different sub-networks with unique connectivity patterns, encode different aspects of learning.
Comparative Secretome Analyses of Toxigenic and Atoxigenic Rathayibacter Species.

Phytopathogenic Rathayibacter species are unique bacterial plant pathogens because they are obligately vectored by plant parasitic anguinid nematodes to the developing seedheads of forage grasses a...
Role of Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy in the Management of Primary and Metastatic Brain Tumors.

OPINION STATEMENT Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is a minimally invasive treatment option for brain tumors including glioblastoma, other primary central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms, metastases, and radiation necrosis. LITT employs a fiber optic coupled laser delivery probe stabilized via stereotaxis to deliver thermal energy that induces coagulative necrosis in tumors to achieve effective cytoreduction. LITT complements surgical resection, radiation treatment, tumor treating fields, and systemic therapy, especially in patients who are high risk for surgical resection due to tumor location in eloquent regions or poor functional status. These factors must be balanced with the increased rate of cerebral edema post LITT compared to surgical resection. LITT has also been shown to induce transient disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), especially in the peritumoral region, which allows for enhanced CNS delivery of anti-neoplastic agents, thus greatly expanding the armamentarium against brain tumors to include highly effective anti-neoplastic agents that have poor BBB penetration. In addition, hyperthermia-induced immunogenic cell death is another secondary side effect of LITT that opens up immunotherapy as an attractive adjuvant treatment for brain tumors. Numerous large studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of LITT against various CNS tumors and as the literature continues to grow on this novel technique so will its indications.
Cover thresholds for impacts of an exotic grass on the structure and assembly of a wet prairie community

Potential impacts of an exotic grass, Hemarthria altissima, on restoration of wet prairie community structure (species richness and cover of indicator species) and assembly processes (temporal turnover rates of plant species) on the Kissimmee River floodplain in Central Florida, USA, were evaluated over a 12-year period before and after restoration of hydrologic regimes (2001), and implementation of herbicide treatments (2006–2007) to control its spread. Thresholds for impacts were derived from comparisons of sample sites with variable levels of H. altissima cover. Prior to herbicide treatments, cover of H. altissima exhibited a logistic increase over time, with peak colonization and expansion occurring during major flood events. Mean post-restoration cover of three native wet prairie indicator species (Polygonum punctatum, Panicum hemitomon, and Luziola fluitans) increased to 37.8 ± 3.4 % in plots in which H. altissima cover was 30 %. Prior to and after herbicide treatments, these indicator species largely accounted for observed differences in wet prairie community structure (i.e., cover of wetland forbs and grasses) between heavily infested sites and plots with low or no cover of H. altissima. The cover threshold at which H. altissima began to have these community-level effects was 40–50 %, but lower species richness was found only where H. altissima cover was >80 %. Increasing cover of H. altissima led to a significant decline in temporal turnover rates of plant species (P 75 %) cover of H. altissima. Mean temporal turnover rates of plant species increased significantly (P = 0.03) after herbicide treatments and subsequently were highest during an ensuing flood pulse. However, 2–3 years after herbicide treatments, regrowth of H. altissima reestablished high cover (mean = 59 ± 9.5 %) in over half of the treated plots. The ability of H. altissima to establish dominant cover in restored hydrologic conditions on the Kissimmee River floodplain, and documented regrowth following herbicide treatments, increase the potential for this exotic grass species to be a pervasive threat to successful reestablishment of wet prairie community structure and assembly processes.
Virilization of mother and fetus associated with luteoma of pregnancy: A case report with endocrinologic studies

INCONGRUITIES IN sexual characteristics have tong stimulated interest. Hermaphroditism was a common theme in Graeco-Roman culture,’ and de Ribiera painted the bearded Magdalena Ventura nursing her infant in 163 1.’ Virilization in pregnancy is rare and is usually of ovarian origin.3 Of 44 ovarian lesions causing virilization during gestation, Verhoev,en and associates” found eight luteomas of pregnancy. The following case illustrates the unusual occurrence of maternal and fetal virilization caused by a luteoma of pregnancy and extends the number and breadth of endocrinologic studies in patients with this uncommon entity.
Time-dependent simulations of emission from FSRQ PKS1510-089: multiwavelength variability of external Compton and SSC models

[abridged] We present results of modeling the SED and multiwavelength variability of the bright FSRQ PKS1510-089 with our time-dependent multizone Monte Carlo/Fokker-Planck code (Chen et al. 2001). As primary source of seed photons for inverse Compton scattering, we consider radiation from the broad line region (BLR), from the molecular torus, and the local synchrotron radiation (SSC). Different scenarios are assessed by comparing simulated light curves and SEDs with one of the best flares by PKS1510-089, in March 2009. The time-dependence of our code and its correct handling of light travel time effects allow us to fully take into account the effect of the finite size of the active region, and in turn to fully exploit the information carried by time resolved observed SEDs, increasingly available since the launch of Fermi. We confirm that the spectrum adopted for the external radiation has an important impact on the modeling of the SED, in particular for the lower energy end of the Compton component, observed in the X-ray band, which in turn is one of the most critical bands to assess the differences between EC and SSC emission. In the context of the scenario presented here, where the flaring is caused by the increase of the number of relativistic electrons ascribed to the effect of the interaction of a portion of the jet (blob) with a shock, we can not firmly discriminate the three main scenarios for gamma-ray emission. However, results show clearly the differences produced by a more realistic treatment of the emitting source in the shape of SEDs and their time variability over relevant, observable time-scales, and demonstrate the crucial importance of time-dependent multi-zone models to advance our understanding of the physics of these sources, by taking full advantage of the wealth of information offered by the high quality data of current multiwavelength campaigns.
Heart Failure as a Co-Morbidity in the ICU

Heart failure is a co-morbidity for critical illness at both the beginning and end of the critically ill process. At the beginning it limits the ability of the host to sustain an adequate DO2 necessary to prevent the initial ischemia-induced organ injury, while at the end, it limits the host’s ability to wean successfully from mechanical ventilatory support. When treating critically ill patients, one must remember that failure to achieve an adequate DO2 may reflect occult heart failure. Since the treatment for heart failure is often the opposite to the treatment of hypovolemia, which itself is the other major cause of cardiovascular insufficiency, this consideration is of profound practical importance in the management of the critically ill.
Online instruction, e-learning, and student satisfaction: A three year study

This article presents the results of a three-year study of graduate and undergraduate students’ level of satisfaction with online instruction at one university. The study expands on earlier research into student satisfaction with e-learning. Researchers conducted a series of surveys over eight academic terms. Five hundred and fifty-three students participated in the study. Responses were consistent throughout, although there were some differences noted in the level of student satisfaction with their experience. There were no statistically significant differences in the level of satisfaction based on gender, age, or level of study. Overall, students rated their online instruction as moderately satisfactory, with hybrid or partially online courses rated as somewhat more satisfactory than fully online courses. “Convenience” was the most cited reason for satisfaction. “Lack of interaction” was the most cited reason for dissatisfaction. Preferences for hybrid courses surfaced in the responses to an open-ended question asking what made the experience with online or partially online courses satisfactory or unsatisfactory. This study’s findings support the literature to date and reinforce the significance of student satisfaction to student retention.
Input Understanding as a Basis for Multistrategy Task-Adaptive Learning

The paper explores several general issues in developing a multistrategy task-adaptive learning (MTL) system. The system aims at integrating a whole range of learning strategies, such as explanation-based learning, empirical generalization, abduction, constructive induction, learning by analogy and abstraction. The integration is dynamic, i.e. the way different strategies are evoked depends on the learning task at hand. The key idea of the learning method is that the learner tries to “understand” the input in terms of its current knowledge, and then uses this understanding to improve the knowledge. This process may involve both certain and plausible reasoning. The paper extends and generalizes the previous work on this topic.
Bad Faith and Unconscionability

This article challenges the notion that inquiries into bad faith and unconscionability in the underlying contract are proper when a letter of credit applicant seeks to stop payment under a letter of credit. Judicial inquiry into the underlying contract to determine whether there has been bad faith or unconscionable conduct retards the quick-payment feature of letters of credit, increases their costs, and externalizes what should be the applicant’s costs on the letter of credit as a commercial product.
Chapter 9 – Entomology

Although forensic entomology may seem to be a narrow speciality, it is applicable in a wide variety of cases. Forensic entomologists identify insects associated with dead bodies and estimate time since death. They also play an important role in other areas where insects and crime intersect, such as drugs, poisons, and location of stolen goods.
Contraceptive practice in the United States 1982-1988.

Use of oral contraceptives by married women declined markedly between 1973 and 1982, but analysis of data from the 1988 National Survey of Family Growth shows that this decline stopped between 1982 and 1988. Reliance on female sterilization continued to increase, however, and it remained the leading method among currently married and formerly married women. Among women of all marital statuses, IUD use dropped by two-thirds between 1982 and 1988, from 2.2 million to 0.7 million women. As the proportion of less-educated, low-income, black and Hispanic contraceptive users choosing the IUD decreased, the proportion relying on female sterilization increased. Among college-educated white women, use of female sterilization did not increase; instead, pill use rose in this group. Condom use increased most sharply among teenagers and rose among never-married white and black women, but the pill was still the leading method by far in these groups, regardless of race. Among never-married black women, reliance on sterilization increased significantly between 1982 and 1988, with female sterilization becoming the second leading method. Use of the diaphragm declined sharply over the same period among never-married white women and among those who intended to have more children, as did use of periodic abstinence (rhythm and natural family planning) and foam.
Topometric localization on a road network

Current GPS-based devices have difficulty localizing in cases where the GPS signal is unavailable or insufficiently accurate. This paper presents an algorithm for localizing a vehicle on an arbitrary road network using vision, road curvature estimates, or a combination of both. The method uses an extension of topometric localization, which is a hybrid between topological and metric localization. The extension enables localization on a network of roads rather than just a single, non-branching route. The algorithm, which does not rely on GPS, is able to localize reliably in situations where GPSbased devices fail, including “urban canyons” in downtown areas and along ambiguous routes with parallel roads. We demonstrate the algorithm experimentally on several road networks in urban, suburban, and highway scenarios. We also evaluate the road curvature descriptor and show that it is effective when imagery is sparsely available.
Additional arguments for the key role of "smart" autolysins in the enlargement of the wall of gram-negative bacteria.

Because the wall of Gram-negative bacteria is thin, the mechanism for safe enlargement of the cell is subject to strong constraints. Several models for wall growth have been proposed; in the order that they have been proposed, these include: 1) an "allosteric" model in which the critical autolysin is only functional if the bond to be cleaved is near a covalently cross-linked, but unstretched oligopeptide; 2) a model in which the cell wall is thick enough to enlarge by the "inside-to-outside" mode characteristic of Gram-positive rods; 3) a "patches" model, recently proposed by Holtje, in which only parts of the cell wall are thickened at any one time; 4) a new multienzyme model in which the transpeptidase/autolysin complex cleaves one cross-linked oligopeptidoglycan chain for every two nascent chains covalently polymerized to the sacculus. These models are considered and contrasted. While none can be rigourously excluded, no. 4 is favoured. All models as applied to the Gram-negative rod-shaped bacteria require special, extraordinary features for their autolysins. These features have not been found with any other class of enzymes, but are essential to permit safe cell expansion.
Diffuse optical signals in response to peripheral nerve stimulation reflect skeletal muscle kinematics.

Previously we have reported a near-infrared optical response in the region occupied by a peripheral nerve that is distal to the site of electrical stimulation of that peripheral nerve. This “intermediate” signal is vascular in nature but its biological origin not been elucidated. In the present study, an animal model of the signal has been created and our human studies expanded to directly investigate the contribution of non-artifactual vascular motion induced by muscle contraction to the biological origin of this signal. Under non-invasive conditions during stimulation of the exposed sciatic nerve of the Sprague-Dawley rat, optical responses are robust. These signals can be abolished both pharmacologically and surgically using methods that eliminate muscle motion while leaving the electrophysiological health of the nerve intact. In human studies, signals that are elicited on stimulation of nerves containing motor axons, both within and outside the predicted imaging volume of the spectrometer, have similar temporal characteristics of those previously observed. Moreover, stimulation of sensory nerves alone does not elicit an optical response. These results strongly suggest that the intermediate signals are derived from stimulus-induced muscle contraction (whether via an innervating nerve or by direct stimulation) causing translational vascular motion within the optically interrogated region.
Situation normal [Gourand and Phong shading]

Two of the most famous graphics techniques, derived from shading algorithms by Henri Gouraud and Bui Tuong Phong, have been implemented in hardware and software worldwide. Both methods use various hacks to smooth out the shading of a polygonal surface. So rather than looking like an assembly of flat slabs, a smooth-shaded model seems smoother. The sharp creases between polygons are gone, replaced by a continuous change in tone or color. But if the original polygons aren't being rendered directly, then the shading doesn't correspond to the original model. What model does it correspond to? In other words, what is the smooth surface which, when rendered accurately, has the same appearance as a Phong shaded polygonal model? Phong normal interpolation is the process of computing a point's surface normal by linear interpolation of the components of two normals at either end of a line containing that point. This normal may then be used as part of a shading equation that takes into account specular highlights in an empirical manner, Phong illumination. Throughout this article, I deal only with perfectly diffuse surfaces lit by a single light source, so Phong illumination isn't part of the discussion. We assume that the light source is conveniently located at infinity. Gourand shading means the process of interpolating a color component to find intermediate color values across a polygon. Phong shading means interpolating surface normals to find intermediate normals that we can then evaluate with respect to the light source to find a color for that point.
Structure of propene in heterogeneous catalysis: I. Infrared spectra of propene complexes of some atomic metals

Abstract Propene-metal complexes are formed when excess propene is co-condensed with atomic nickel, palladium, iron, magnesium, or aluminum at liquid nitrogen temperature. Aluminum forms stable organoaluminum products that remain unchanged on warming to room temperature. Infrared spectra and hydrolysis experiments indicate the major product to be a C 3 alkane adduct of aluminum. Nickel, palladium, and iron give colorless, unstable π-propene complexes whose low-temperature infrared spectra resemble the spectrum of a propene analog of Zeise's salt K(C 3 H 6 PtCl 3 ) · H 2 O. Only an unstable, black, charge-transfer complex is obtained from magnesium, and its infrared spectrum is indistinguishable from that of solid propene. The charge-transfer complex and the π-propene complexes all decompose on warming into propene and metals.
Nephrotic syndrome presenting in a patient with primary Sjögren's syndrome: questions.

Case summary A 17 year-old African American woman with a history of Sjogren’s syndrome presented with several days of periorbital and pedal edema. She also had fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, and diffuse arthralgias. She had no gross hematuria or oliguria. There were no recent sore throats or upper respiratory tract infections. She had no weight loss, night sweats, joint swelling, oral ulcerations, or rash. She had taken several doses of ibuprofen for arthralgias but was not taking any other medications. She was diagnosed with primary Sjogren’s syndrome at 11 years of age after presenting with bilateral parotitis. The diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome was based on the parotitis and a history of xerostomia and xerophthalmia. Schirmer’s test was abnormal (prolonged wetting time of filter paper placed in the lower eyelid), indicating abnormal tear production. Sialometry showed inadequate saliva production. Serologic markers at the time of diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome included normal serum C3 and C4, elevated antinuclear antibodies (ANA) of 1:2560, elevated anti-Ro/SSA antibody, negative anti-double-stranded DNA antibody, and elevated rheumatoid factor. She had a normal serum creatinine concentration of 0.7 mg/dl and a normal urinalysis with no blood or protein. She was treated with prednisone for 1 year and remained symptom free aside from intermittent mild xerostomia and xerophthalmia. Her father has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis.
Electrophoresis of nonuniformly charged ellipsoidal particles

Abstract A theory is developed for the motion of a charged ellipsoidal particle in a uniform electric field. The Helmholtz limit of a thin double layer is assumed but the zeta potential is allowed to be an arbitrary function of position on the surface of the particle. The resulting formulas for translation and rotation of the particle are applied to spheroids with an axisymmetric distribution of zeta potential. The translational velocity depends on the monopole and quadrupole moments of the zeta potential as well as on the orientation of the particle with respect to the applied electric field, while the angular velocity is proportional to the cross-product between the dipole moment and the field. Sample calculations are used to demonstrate possible effects of the dipole and quadrupole moments on the mean electrophoretic velocity of a dilute suspension of identical particles. A particularly interesting result is that spheroids that are electrically neutral (zero net charge) can have a significant electrophoretic mobility. Application of our theory to literature data for the electrophoretic mobility of kaolinite particles shows that the classical Smoluchowski equation can lead to erroneous estimates of the zeta potential for the faces of these disk-like particles.
US health reform and value: hit or miss?

The USA is about to undertake a major transformation of how it delivers healthcare, and The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is the blueprint for reform [1]. This legislation employs the ...
Transit rights and U.S. security interests in international straits: The “straits debate”; revisited

Abstract The issue of transit rights through international straits overlapped by an extension of territorial seas to 12nm was the focal point of intense debate between the United States and straits states during the formative stages of UNCLOS III. Even though the ICNT provisions on transit through straits reflect basic U.S. navigation and security interests, this paper argues that the issue of transit rights through straits is not a dead issue. Straits states may either refuse to ratify a LOS treaty incorporating ICNT provisions on transit passage, or the attempts to obtain a comprehensive LOS treaty may end in failure. In either case, the United States may be forced to accept a right of innocent passage through international straits. The conclusions of this paper are that the security of transit will be determined by political rather than legal considerations, and that U.S. security interests in straits are not undermined by a right of innocent passage.
A high pressure low temperature gas cell for use in the far infrared region

Abstract A gas cell is described for use in the far infrared (FIR) region at pressures up to 100 bars and a temperature span of 78–300°K, throughout the spectral range of 10–500 cm−1. Modifications incorporating a dual sealing technique enabling the use of an independent window, consequently extending the spectral range beyond 500cm−1 is also described.
Parallel structural optimization on cray X-MP

Abstract The real benefit of structural optimization techniques is in the application of these techniques to large structures such as full vehicles or full aircraft. For these structures, however, the sequential computer's time and memory requirements prohibit solution. With the recent existence and rapid development of multi-processor computers, parallel processing of large-scale structural optimization problems is achievable. In this paper we discuss the parallel processing of structural optimization problems with parallel structural analysis on the Cray X-MP. Two different types of interface between the optimization and analysis routines are developed and tested.
The Tales of Two Cultures: Ecclesiastical Texts and Nahua and Maya Catholicisms

When in the late eighteenth century the prelates of the Fourth Mexican Provincial Council ordered all clergy to stricdy employ their newly printed catechism, they provided a valuable description of the colonial Church and its relationship to unofficial ecclesiastical texts. The Fourth Provincial Council's call for the faithful to receive the doctrines of the Church in a sanctioned and uniform manner acknowledged the presence of a variety of Catholic discourses that stemmed from colonial religious works deemed to be “destitute of legitimate authority and revision.” Such unofficial ecclesiastical texts avoided the editing process that both the clergy and Crown established to ensure the orthodoxy of all printed religious material. In so doing, the texts could convey diverse, unorthodox interpretations of Catholicism. These unofficial ecclesiastical texts, and the role they played in producing multiple versions of Catholicism, constitute the focus of this study.
Deletion of Chromosome 2 q37 and Autism: A Distinct Subtype?

Several reports have described the occurrence of chromosome abnormalities in autism, a neuro-developmental disorder characterized by social deficits, communication impairment, and a restricted range of interests. These include the fragile X abnormality and 15q duplications. In this report, we describe two cases of chromosome 2q37 and review the literature on this topic. We propose that deletion of the distal portion of the long arm of chromosome 2 (2q37) may be associated with some cases of autism and with a distinct phenotype. Increased awareness of the dysmorphic features associated with 2q37 deletions may aid in the molecular genetic analysis of this chromosome anomaly and clarify its relationship with autism.
Toward a General Theory of Hydrogen Bonding: The Short, Strong Hydrogen Bond [HOH···OH]-

The method of localized charge distributions is used to analyze the difference in hydrogen bond strength between HOH···OH2 and [HOH···OH]- in terms of the competition between the electronic kinetic energy and potential energy. The main source of the difference is the relatively larger decrease in the intermolecular energy for the latter complex, due to the net charge and a more polar accepting lone pair. The decrease is interpreted semiquantitatively by using bond and lone pair dipoles. The shortening of the OO distance and the lengthening of the donating O−H bond are both shown to occur as a result of the stronger attraction. Implications for other short strong hydrogen bonds are discussed.
Removal of lingual apex utilizing palatal approach.

Abstract A method for removal of the lingual apex of an upper molar has been presented. A flap type of operation is employed to remove the root from a palatal approach which provides good access and visibility.