cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Nutrition Assessment

Pediatric patients with chronic illnesses or diseases or who require long-term nutrition support are most vulnerable to nutrition-related issues. Malnutrition in a pediatric patient may negatively affect long-term growth and development. Children also become malnourished much more quickly than adults. A comprehensive nutrition assessment that includes food and nutrition-related history, anthropometric measurements, biochemical data, medical tests and procedures, nutrition-focused physical findings, and patient history should be completed on these patients as no one parameter is a comprehensive indicator of nutrition status. Anthropometric measurements provide important information on the growth and nutrition status of a child, yet many times it is difficult to get accurate and valid measurements due to physical limitations of the child or improper technique. Inaccurate measurements may result in a missed diagnosis of malnutrition or may lead to an incorrect diagnosis of a healthy child. Knowledge of appropriate anthropometric measurements and alternatives is crucial when assessing growth in all children and essential for those who are physically handicapped or critically ill. The purpose of this review is to present key components of a pediatric nutrition assessment so proper nutrition-related diagnosis, including malnutrition, can be accomplished, a nutrition care plan established, and expected outcomes documented.
Evaluation of intraventricular colistin utilization: A case series.

Abstract Purpose Multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs) are an increasing concern in health systems. Pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Acinetobacter baumanii , and carbapenamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae hold highest mortality rates especially when the central nervous system is involved. When MDROs are cultured treatment options are limited and reliance on medications such as colistin is becoming more prevalent. Penetration of these therapies into the central nervous system is concerning therefore local administration is a potential concomitant therapy. Methods This study was a retrospective review from 2009 to 2015 for all patients with documented MDROs gram negative pathogens who received intraventricular colistin. Results Seven patients met inclusion criteria. The average age of the patients was 49 years old, 4 were males, and the median length of intensive care unit stay was 30 days. The duration of therapy ranged from 2 to 14 days and all cerebrospinal fluid cultures were sterile at 7 days after administration of colistin. Six of the seven patients were discharged from the hospital and one discharged to a skilled nursing facility. The use of intraventricular colistin was not associated with any reported adverse events. Conclusion The use of intraventricular colistin was associated with positive clinical outcomes with no reported adverse effects.
Addressing Parental Health in Pediatrics: Physician Perceptions of Relevance and Responsibility

Pediatric guidelines recommend that providers address a range of parental health issues; however, adherence to these guidelines has been suboptimal. Drawing on a nationally-representative sample of children's primary care physicians, we examined whether providers view parental issues as relevant to child health and whether they believe it is their personal responsibility to address them. Issues included maternal depression, tobacco use, intimate partner violence, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) immunization, family planning, and health insurance. While the majority of respondents endorsed the relevance of these issues to child health, particularly for issues with an established evidencebase, significantly fewer felt responsible for addressing them. Physicians who endorsed relevance or responsibility were almost always more likely to address these issues in their clinical practice. To advance parental health promotion practices, highlighting relevance to pediatric outcomes is an important first step, particularly for novel areas, while understanding what factors influence personal responsibility is necessary for all issues.
Theoretical Basis of the Main Study

This chapter is a sequence of technical appendices to Chapter 3. These appendices indicate solutions to some methodological problems that arise in applying Bayes’ theorem to the analysis of data. In a textbook, Chapter 4 would be starred; the chapters that follow are not dependent on the material in this chapter, and most readers would do well to skip it on first reading. Unlike the other chapters, this chapter is written only for those seriously interested in statistical theory. We hope that, beyond documentation, the solutions presented may stimulate others to make improvements, generalizations, or to create analogous solutions for new problems.
Complete classification of the states of nuclear configurationsj k forj=9/2

The states of equivalentj=9/2 nucleon configurations are classified and enumerated. New formulae are given for the dimensionalities of the relevant partitions. Several general rules are deduced for the interpretation of non-standard partitions.
Pancreatic stent prophylaxis of post endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: spontaneous migration rates and clinical outcomes.

AIM Pancreatic duct (PD) stents diminish the risk of post endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) in high-risk patients; 3 Fr stents are reported to spontaneously migrate at a significantly higher rate than 5 Fr stents in a cohort of mostly sphincter of Oddi (SOD) patients. We sought to assess spontaneous migration rates of 5 Fr and 7 Fr stents and effectiveness in preventing PEP in a diverse group of high risk patients. METHODS A total of 4,332 ERCP exams performed between January 2002 and August 2005 were reviewed to identify patients undergoing PD stent placement. Follow-up was obtained from electronic medical records and contact with referring MDs. Plain abdominal radiographs were used to document stent passage. RESULTS PD stents for PEP prophylaxis were placed in 246 exams (232 patients) undergoing: PD (major or minor) sphincterotomy (84), ampullectomy (50), SOD (46), bile duct precut (35), papillary stenosis balloon dilation (9) and difficult cannulation (8). Stents placed: 218 5-Fr (140 were 3 cm long and 78 =or> 5 cm long) and 28 7-Fr (12 were 3 cm long, 16=or> 5cm long). Follow-up was available in 197 (171 5-Fr, 26 7-Fr) of 246 placements (80%). Twenty of 171 5-Fr stents were electively removed via EGD within=or< 24 h per endoscopist preference and were not included in analysis; 128 of the remaining 151 5-Fr stents (85%) spontaneously migrated by (or within) median of 8 days and 23 failed to pass and required EGD removal. Of 26 7-Fr stents one was electively removed =or< 24 h later; of the remaining 25, 15 (60%) spontaneously migrated by median of 16 days, 10 required EGD removal. The spontaneous migration rate of 5 Fr stents was: 1) significantly higher than 7 Fr stents; 2) significantly higher than the previously reported 67% passage rate of 5 Fr stents; and 3) similar to the previously reported 86% passage rate of 3 Fr stents. PEP occurred in 15% (n=36: 24 mild, 11 moderate, 1 severe). CONCLUSION The spontaneous dislodgement rate of 5 Fr stents in patients where the indication is primarily non-SOD is approximately 85% - significantly higher than previously reported and similar to the reported rate of spontaneous dislodgement of 3 Fr stents in SOD patients; 5 Fr stents migrate spontaneously earlier and more frequently than 7 Fr stents.
The visco-damage mechanical response of swirl-mat composites

This article concerns the characterization of the mechanical response of composite materials made of continuous, randomly oriented strands (‘swirl-mat’) of E-glass fibers embedded in a urethane matrix. The purpose of this work is to identify and quantify the various parameters that govern the material response in order to develop a predictive model. The characterization is based upon creep data collected during the application of constant load of several amplitudes and various durations, and recovery data collected after load release. The glass-fiber/urethane matrix swirl-mat composites were observed to develop distributed damage in the form of profuse internal micro-cracks, they exhibit time-dependent response and develop permanent deformation upon load removal. A one dimensional model is presented, which incorporates the foregoing features of creep, continuum damage, and permanent deformation. The model is employed to represent the characterization data as well as to predict the response under two-step load histories.
Pubertal Change and Cognition

Early adolescence, the stage of life during which puberty takes place, is a time of some very interesting changes in cognition. It is the time for the onset of the final stage in Piaget’s (Inhelder and Piaget, 1958) conceptualization of cognitive development, a stage characterized by the development of the capacity for abstract thinking, or formal operational thought. While not all early adolescents, or even adults, manifest such thinking (Elkind, 1974), early adolescence is a time when some young people first manifest abstract thinking.
The euphoric film: Ivan Vyrypaev’s Euphoria, metacinema and affect

This article examines Ivan Vyrypaev’s debut feature film Euphoria (2006) from the perspectives of phenomenological approaches to film and affect theory. The essay situates Euphoria in the context o...
II-04 Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from patients with SLE maintain an interferon signature during in vitro culture

Background We have previously shown that SLE BMSCs have a pro-inflammatory mediated by a MAVS and IFNβ feedback loop. Compared to healthy controls, SLE BMSCs produced increased amounts of IFNβ and had increased mRNA for several genes induced relatively specifically by IFNβ. They also had decreased proliferation, increased ROS, increased DNA damage and repair (DDR), a senescence associated secretory phenotype, and increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase. To better understand the phenotype of SLE BMSCs we conducted RNA sequencing. Methods Patients fulfilling SLE classification criteria and age and sex matched healthy controls were recruited under an Institutional Review Board approved protocol (6 pairs). Bone marrow aspirates and peripheral blood samples were obtained. BMSCs were isolated with low density Ficoll/Hypaque and grown in tissue culture. Purity of BMSC cultures were verified by flow cytometry. Early passage BMSC were harvested and mRNA samples were sent for RNAseq through the University of Rochester Genomics Core. Serum samples with assayed for IFNβ using an ELISA from PBL. Results Hierarchical clustering of normalized RNAseq profiles found SLE patients with high levels of serum IFNβ (>13 units per XXX) grouped together while SLE patients with low levels of IFNβ grouped together with healthy controls. Principal component analysis found the majority of the variance could be explained by PC1 (32.3%) and PC2 (25.5%). While PC1 did not separate SLE or SLE IFNβ high from the other samples, PC2 clearly differentiated SLE IFNβ high samples from SLE IFNβlow and control samples. SLE IFNβ low and control sample overlapped in both PC1 and PC2. The top upregulated genes in PC2 were RSAD2, MX1, IFIT1, IFIT2, OAS1, CMPK2, OASL, IFIT3, ISG15, IDO1, IFI6, MX2, HERC5, and IFIH1 … all type I interferon-induced genes. Conclusions BMSCs from SLE patients are heterogeneous. A subgroup of SLE BMSC are distinguished from other SLE BMSC and from controls by increased levels of mRNAs induced by type I interferons. Moreover, SLE BMSC with increased levels of mRNA for type I interferon-induced genes when grown in vitro are derived from patients with increased levels of IFNβ in vivo. Acknowledgements This work was supported in part by a grant from the Lupus Research Alliance.
ADULT-ONSET WHEAT ANAPHYLAXIS IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD

Introduction Although most food allergies present in childhood, food allergies can develop at any age. The lay press suggests the occurrence of new allergy following parturition, but this has not been well-documented in the literature. Case Description 37-year old female without prior food allergies presented with sudden-onset urticaria, one week postpartum, which resolved with epinephrine. Over the subsequent two weeks, she had two episodes of anaphylaxis, during walks preceded by wheat ingestion. Per the patient's report, ingestion of wheat without exercise did not provoke symptoms. Skin testing shortly thereafter to a panel of aeroallergens and food allergens was negative. Serum specific IgE testing and component-resolved diagnostics were significant only for wheat omega-5 gliadin (5.3 ISU-E). An open challenge to wheat was positive with urticaria. We recommended strict avoidance of wheat. On follow up in 4 years, she had had no further allergic reactions and continued to avoid wheat. Omega-5 gliadin sensitization has declined slightly over these four years, to 2.1 ISU-E. She has not been re-challenged to wheat. Discussion Recent anaphylaxis may yield falsely-negative skin test results. This patient's initial history was suggestive of food-dependent, exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA). Wheat sensitization, specifically omega-5 gliadin, is the most commonly reported sensitization and trigger in FDEIA. Although exercise was a previously required component of her reactions, our patient developed subsequently a reaction during the open challenge, which was at rest. Striking in this case was the development of new food allergy closely associated with parturition. Pregnancy could modify food allergy risk.
Identifying Older Patients at High Risk for Emergency Department Visits and Hospitalization.

Abstract Hospitalizations are costly, potentially hazardous for older patients, and sometimes preventable. With Medicare's implementation of hospital penalties for 30-day readmissions on certain in...
Probabilistic Assessment of Glass Forming Ability Rules for Metallic Glasses Aided by Automated Analysis of Phase Diagrams

The use of machine learning techniques to expedite the discovery and development of new materials is an essential step towards the acceleration of a new generation of domain-specific highly functional material systems. In this paper, we use the test case of bulk metallic glasses to highlight the key issues in the field of high throughput predictions and propose a new probabilistic analysis of rules for glass forming ability using rough set theory. This approach has been applied to a broad range of binary alloy compositions in order to predict new metallic glass compositions. Our data driven approach takes into account not only a broad variety of thermodynamic, structural and kinetic based criteria, but also incorporates qualitative and descriptive attributes associated with eutectic points in phase diagrams. For the latter, we demonstrate the use of automated machine learning methods that go far beyond text recognition approaches by also being able to interpret phase diagrams. When combined with structural descriptors, this approach provides the foundations to develop a hierarchical probabilistic predication tool that can rank the feasibility of glass formation.
Perioperative Medication Errors

There has always been a necessary balance in medicine between the principles of diagnosis and treatment. However, the resources required to achieve such a balance are constantly changing. While the applied elements of medical diagnostics continue to evolve scientifically, the selection and delivery of a particular treatment regimen still require a human touch. Accordingly, at its most fundamental level, the successful delivery of a specific therapeutic intervention and the prevention of error require administration of the correct medication in the correct dose via the correct route at the correct time to the correct patient. These fundamental steps are made increasingly difficult by the ever-expanding diversity and variable potency of medications available to practitioners.
Using injury cost functions from a predictive single-compartment model to assess the severity of mechanical ventilator-induced lung injuries

This work uses a predictive single-compartment model and injury cost functions to assess graded levels of mechanical ventilator-induced lung injury. The most promising measures include strain heter...
RNA-binding Motif Protein 45 (Rbm45)/Developmentally Regulated RNA-binding Protein-1 (Drbp1): Association with Neurodegenerative Disorders

Neurodegenerative disorders are caused by the progressive loss of the structure and/or function of neurons, often through cell death, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Cytoplasmic aggregation of proteins into inclusion bodies is a pathological characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), and Alzheimer’s disorder (AD). These inclusion bodies have been shown to contain RNA-binding proteins participating in RNA-dependent and RNA–independent protein:protein interactions. RNA-binding motif protein 45 (RBM45), also known as developmentally regulated RNA-binding protein-1 (Drbp1), was first identified as a novel RNA binding protein in rat that functions in neural development. Advancing research has indicated a connection between the presence of human RBM45 protein cytosolic aggregates and degenerative neurological diseases. This review considers the structure, function, and distribution of RBM45 along with a look into potential future research on this multifunctional RNA-binding protein.
Moderation of an ideological party

Abstract It is a common fear in many countries that ideological parties will come to power through elections but will implement extreme policies. Many countries cope with this problem by overriding the election results when such parties are elected. We demonstrate that the alternative approach of containing these parties within the democratic system is more effective. We show that, as the probability of state's intervention in the next elections increases, an ideological party implements a more extreme policy in equilibrium. This hurts the median voter. Our main result shows that from the median voter's perspective, the optimal intervention scheme can be implemented by committing not to intervene and adjusting election times appropriately. That is, elections are a better incentive mechanism than the threat of a coup.
Effect of Leptin Deficiency on the Skeletal Response to Hindlimb Unloading in Adult Male Mice

Based on body weight, morbidly obese leptin-deficient ob/ob mice have less bone than expected, suggesting that leptin plays a role in the skeletal response to weight bearing. To evaluate this possibility, we compared the skeletal response of wild type (WT) and ob/ob mice to hindlimb unloading (HU). Mice were individually housed at 32 °C (thermoneutral) from 4 weeks of age (rapidly growing) to 16 weeks of age (approaching skeletal maturity). Mice were then randomized into one of 4 groups (n = 10/group): (1) WT control, (2) WT HU, (3) ob/ob control, and (4) ob/ob HU and the results analyzed by 2-way ANOVA. ob/ob mice pair-fed to WT mice had normal cancellous bone volume fraction (BV/TV) in distal femur, lower femur length and total bone area, mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD), and higher cancellous bone volume fraction in lumbar vertebra (LV). HU resulted in lower BMC and BMD in total femur, and lower BV/TV in distal femur and LV in both genotypes. Cancellous bone loss in femur in both genotypes was associated with increases in osteoclast-lined bone perimeter. In summary, leptin deficiency did not attenuate HU-induced osteopenia in male mice, suggesting that leptin is not required for bone loss induced by unweighting.
Learning for Peace: Lessons Learned from UNICEF’s Peacebuilding, Education, and Advocacy in Conflict-Affected Context Programme

Conflict and insecurity have been described as the “primary development challenge of our time” (World Bank Group, 2011, p. 1). Whereas mediation, diplomacy, security, reconstruction, and government and economic reforms, continue to play an essential role in building and sustaining peace, recent discussions have also focused on the importance of addressing inequity, as well as the exclusion from basic social services (education, water, health and nutrition, social protection, early childhood development) (United Nations & World Bank Group, 2018). UNICEF’s “Learning for Peace” programme – implemented from 2012 to 2016 – presents a recent example of how social development services can be leveraged not only to meet children’s developmental, protection, and cultural needs and rights, but also to contribute to the mitigation of conflict factors. This chapter summarizes lessons learned from the implementation of “Learning for Peace” across 14 fragile and post-conflict countries. A theoretical framework for understanding education’s contributions to conflict and peace as well as a monitoring and evaluation framework for assessing its contributions toward social cohesion, will be introduced.
El futuro de la Política Agraria Común europea

The Common Agrarian Policy, one of the traditional pillars of the construction of Europe, begins a new reform process. This editorial reﬂection begins precisely with a reminder about the reforms that have taken place in the last two decades, as well as a brief outline of the directions that process of change are taking. In continuation a document drafted by the Commission at the end of 2010 is summarized and explained as it opens a new and seemingly decisive stage of changes, with an eye on the horizon of 2020. It is a question of opening up a debate that will follow the normal steps of this type of process. After deﬁning the “issue”, the global and agrarian juncture in which the discussion takes place, the article suggests some ideas about the likely impact of these changes in Europe and Spain. It concludes with an ethical and critical assessment of all that is at stake in this new reform, getting a perspective on the problems of insecure global food supply and about the possible EU contribution in this respect.
Stabilization of Nonlinear Discrete-Time Systems to Target Measures Using Stochastic Feedback Laws

In this article, we address the problem of stabilizing a discrete-time deterministic nonlinear control system to a target invariant measure using time-invariant stochastic feedback laws. This problem can be viewed as an extension of the problem of designing the transition probabilities of a Markov chain so that the process is exponentially stabilized to a target stationary distribution. Alternatively, it can be seen as an extension of the classical control problem of asymptotically stabilizing a discrete-time system to a single point, which corresponds to the Dirac measure in the measure stabilization framework. We assume that the target measure is supported on the entire state space of the system and is absolutely continuous with respect to the Lebesgue measure. Under the condition that the system is locally controllable at every point in the state space within one time step, we show that the associated measure stabilization problem is well-posed. Given this well-posedness result, we then frame an infinite-dimensional convex optimization problem to construct feedback control laws that stabilize the system to a target invariant measure at a maximized rate of convergence. We validate our optimization approach with numerical simulations of two-dimensional linear and nonlinear discrete-time control systems.
“PLEASE Complete Your Evaluations!” Strategies to Engage Faculty in Competency-Based Assessments

Abstract Competency-based assessments (CBAs) have gained traction in graduate medical education and inform important learner outcomes through the continuum of medical training. Active participation in new CBAs presents challenges to faculty working in a busy clinical environment. As such, the implementation of new CBAs can be approached with intention to foster acceptance and engagement with new evaluations. This paper describes strategies utilized to implement CBAs among clinician educators during a national assessment pilot. Our methods are grounded in educational, psychological, business, ecological, communication, and information technology theory. Our primary interventions included creating a multilevel vision, engaging a dedicated work group, incorporating quality improvement methodology, and integrating technology to successfully implement the assessments. These practical and effective interventions may also be applied to the implementation of other educational innovations.
Desupersaturation of RO concentrate and gypsum removal via seeded precipitation in a fluidized bed crystallizer.

Abstract The feasibility of a continuous chemically-enhanced seeded precipitation (CCESP) process was evaluated for desupersaturation of primary reverse osmosis (PRO) concentrate generated from RO desalting of inland agricultural drainage (AD) water with high gypsum scaling potential. The CCESP approach, comprised of partial lime treatment (PLT) followed by gypsum seeded precipitation (GSP), was assessed via laboratory and field tests, along with model simulations. PLT effectiveness was confirmed for residual antiscalant removal from the PRO concentrate, which otherwise would suppress gypsum crystallization. GSP was carried out in a fluidized bed crystallizer (FBC) demonstrating the feasibility of continuous PRO concentrate desupersaturation with suitable solids management. FBC operation was stable, with respect to desupersaturation performance, when operating over a sequence of periodic solids purge-only mode with intermittent seeds replenishment. The study suggests that CCESP integration with primary and secondary RO desalting (i.e., PRO-CCESP-SRO) can provide for significant enhancement of product water recovery for inland water of high gypsum scaling propensity. For example, source water of high salinity (14,347 mg/L total dissolved solid) AD water, nearly saturated with respect to gypsum, could be desalted up to a recovery of 88-96% (relative to merely 66% recovery feasible via PRO desalting. Moreover, net salt harvesting of 2.6-3.6 kg per m3 RO concentrate (with concentrate recycle) can be obtained from high recovery desalting of the above PRO concentrate.
Use of an Integrated Care Management Program to Uncover and Address Social Determinants of Health for Individuals With Lupus.

Objective We studied patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) enrolled in a nurse-led, multihospital, primary care-based integrated care management program (iCMP) for complex patients with chronic conditions to understand whether social determinants of health (SDoH), including food insecurity, housing instability, and financial constraints, were prevalent in this population. Methods The academic hospital-based iCMP enrolls the top 2% of medically and psychosocially complex patients identified on the basis of clinical complexity health care use, and primary care provider referral. A nurse conducts needs assessments and coordinates care. We reviewed the electronic medical records of enrolled patients with SLE to identify SDoH needs and corresponding actions taken 1 year prior to iCMP enrollment using physicians' and social workers' notes, and during enrollment using iCMP team members' notes. Results Among 69 patients with SLE in the iCMP, in the year prior to enrollment, 57% had documentation of one or more SDoH challenges, compared with 94% during enrollment. iCMP nurses discussed and addressed one or more SDoH issues for 81% of the patients; transportation challenges, medication access, mental health care access, and financial insecurity were the most prevalent. Nurses connected 75% of these patients with related resources and support. Conclusion Although SDoH-related issues were not used to identify patients for the iCMP, the vast majority of enrolled medically and psychosocially complex patients with SLE had these needs. The iCMP team uncovered and addressed SDoH-related concerns not documented prior to iCMP participation. Expansion of care management programs like the iCMP would help identify, document, and address these barriers that contribute to disparities in chronic disease care and outcomes.
Self-Interest before Adam Smith: A Genealogy of Economic Science

Self-Interest before Adam Smith inquires into the foundations of economic theory. It is generally assumed that the birth of modern economic science, marked by the publication of The Wealth of Nations in 1776, was the triumph of the 'selfish hypothesis' (the idea that self-interest is the motive of human action). Yet, as a neo-Epicurean idea, this hypothesis had been a matter of controversy for over a century and Smith opposed it from a neo-Stoic point of view. But how can the Epicurean principles of orthodox economic theory be reconciled with the Stoic principles of Adam Smith's philosophy? Pierre Force shows how Smith's theory refutes the 'selfish hypothesis' and integrates it at the same time. He also explains how Smith appropriated Rousseau's 'republican' critique of modern commercial society, and makes the case that the autonomy of economic science is an unintended consequence of Smith's 'republican' principles.
Estrogen regulation of tissue-specific expression of complement C3.

Abstract The administration of estradiol to immature rats results in the increased synthesis and secretion of a 180-kDa protein, composed of 115- and 65-kDa subunits, by the uterine luminal epithelial cells. A monoclonal antibody against the 180-kDa protein was utilized to isolate the corresponding cDNA (LE-1) from a rat uterine luminal epithelial cell cDNA lambda gt11 expression library. This LE-1 cDNA was sequenced and shown to be homologous to complement component C3. The sequence was approximately 81 and 90% homologous to human and mouse C3, respectively. The LE-1 cDNA sequence was homologous with the 3' portion of the C3 mRNA containing the alpha subunit (115 kDa). Uterine mRNA isolated from immature rats treated with 1 microgram of estradiol for 24 h demonstrated a 25-fold increase in the concentration of a 6.0-kilobase mRNA by Northern hybridization with either LE-1 or authentic human C3 cDNA probes. To further examine the possibility that the estradiol-regulated secretory protein was C3, an aliquot of radiolabeled media protein from control and estradiol-stimulated rat uteri was incubated with goat anti-rat C3 antibody. The immunoprecipitated radiolabeled protein from estradiol-treated animals was increased significantly (p less than 0.01) compared to media from control animals. Analysis of the immunoprecipitated proteins on nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed a single protein of 180 kDa from estradiol-stimulated uterine media, whereas no detectable proteins were immunoprecipitated from media obtained from control uteri. Also, when the immunoprecipitated protein was reduced (20 mM dithiothreitol) it dissociated into two subunits of 115 and 65 kDa. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated the presence of C3 only in the epithelial cells of estrogen-stimulated rat uteri. In addition, the estradiol-stimulated mRNA was only detectable in uterine epithelial cell RNA. Analysis of liver RNA demonstrated a 6.0-kilobase mRNA, as in the uterus, when hybridized with LE-1. However, unlike the uterus, its concentration was not influenced by estrogen administration with up to three daily injections of 100 micrograms of diethylstilbestrol. Based on biophysical, DNA sequence, and antibody data we conclude that rat uterine epithelial cells produce C3 in response to estradiol whereas the expression in the liver was not modulated by estrogens.
Fighting Infectious Enemies: Innovative Thinking to Tackle Modern Day Health Problems

Gender and HIV/AIDS: Critical Perspectives from the Developing World. Edited by Jelke Boesten, Nana K. Poku Burlington, VT: Ashgate Publishing, 2009. 216 pp., $99.95 hardcover (ISBN-13: 978-0-754-68987-4). Global Health. Edited by John J. Kirton Burlington, VT: Ashgate Publishing, 2009. 556 pp., $275.00 hardcover (ISBN-13: 978-0-754-62665-7). Innovation in Global Health Governance. Edited by Andrew F. Cooper, John J. Kirton Burlington, VT: Ashgate Publishing, 2009. 401 pp., $114.95 hardcover (ISBN-13: 978-0-754-64872-7). The pendulum swings both ways. Globalization has brought wealth and prosperity to a fortunate minority of people largely living in the global North, but has exacerbated inequality and scarcity for many in the global South, particularly in the realm of health. For many, this claim is not new; however, the ideas and policy recommendations for how to remedy these health gaps, as laid out in the collection of essays edited by Cooper and Kirton, Boesten and Poku, and Kirton, are novel. These recommendations provide policymakers, health practitioners, and academics with the necessary tools to attack the pervasive global health disparities that exist in the twenty-first century. This eclectic collection of essays is a superb introduction to global health governance and communicable disease control for those with an interest in public health. Those interested in the subjects of globalization, international organization, gender, public goods theory, public–private partnerships, intellectual property, and political economy will also find these contributions worthy of reading. One of the greatest strengths of each volume is the diversity of contributors who hail from the natural and social sciences as well as the humanities. Drawing together such a diverse array of contributors provides the reader with a comprehensive and all-encompassing understanding of modern day health problems, potential solutions, and the evolution of global health governance. This review essay will be divided into two parts. The first part provides the reader with a brief introduction to each volume individually. The order in which the books are presented is not coincidental. Students with a nascent background in public health are advised to tackle each book in this order. Global Health by John Kirkton is the most wide ranging and generalized with the Boesten and Poku volume, Gender and HIV/AIDS, being the most specialized in terms of subject matter and content. The …
Abstract 18162: Does Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Have Acute Impact on Right Ventricular Function ?

Background and Aim: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is now an established alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement in selected high risk aortic stenosis patients. Whether early changes in right ventricular function (RVF) are seen immediately post-TAVR is not known. We aimed to evaluate the impact of TAVR on acute changes in RVF using detailed quantitative analysis. Methods and Results: 103 patients who underwent TAVR at a single-center were retrospectively studied. Each patient’s pre-TAVR echocardiogram (TTE) and immediate post-TAVR TTE performed prior to discharge date from TAVR hospital admission were analyzed along with baseline demographic and clinical variables. RVF was assessed with M-mode, Tissue Doppler and global performance index (Tei index; TEI 1 = pulsed doppler, TEI 2=tissue doppler) on pre and post-TAVR TTE. Pre and post comparisons were done using paired t-tests and data are presented as mean and 95% confidence interval (CI). The mean patient population age was 81.9, with 49% males. Table 1 outlines the pre and post-TAVR echocardiographic changes in quantitative RV function assessed in the early post-TAVR follow-up period. An acute improvement in RVF with Tei index indicates that TAVR may have beneficial effects both on systolic and diastolic function accompanied by a decline in RV-RA pressure difference suggesting lower post TAVR RV systolic pressure. Conclusion: Our study is the first study demonstrating an improvement in RVF acutely post-TAVR utilizing a comprehensive RV TTE analysis. A more global RVF index combining systolic and diastolic RV performance (Tei index) may be a better marker than regional systolic function parameters . Thus, Tei index could be integrated into part of the pre-post RVF assessment evaluation in patients undergoing TAVR. Table1: Right Ventricular Function Pre and Post-TAVR TAPSE: tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, FAC: fractional area change, TR: tricuspid regurgitation ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
GABA and neuroprotection.

Publisher Summary Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in mammalian brain. GABA neurotransmission results in increased chloride flux across the postsynaptic membrane and hyperpolarization. In many ways, these actions counterbalance the physiological and toxic effects of glutamate. Recently, agonists of the GABAA receptor have been shown to provide neuroprotection during ischemia. The potency of these agents equals or exceeds that of glutamate antagonists. This chapter describes the rationale for using GABA agonists as neuroprotectants. Data showing the efficacy of these agents and a proposal for future studies of drug combinations are presented in the chapter. Despite the weight of experimental evidence supporting an important role for such drugs in stroke therapy, no drug has yet emerged as a winner. The development of GABA mimetics is further advanced because such drugs are valuable as anticonvulsants. Several new GABA mimetics are nearing general release, and they appear to have acceptable side-effect profiles along with anticonvulsant activities.
A Study of the Fluorescence Analysis of Primary Amines in Nonaqueous Solutions

Abstract Phenylethylamine, benzylamine, and amine-terminated polystyrene were analyzed in non-aqueous solution by a fluorescence method based upon fluorescamine. The three solvents investigated were DMF, acetone/chloroform (2/1, v/v), and chloroform. Triethylamine was required in the mixtures and optimum amounts of this tertiary amine were determined. The time to maximum fluorescence was found to be much longer than in aqueous solutions. The determination of molecular weight of the amine-terminated polymer by this method agreed well with the value obtained by gel permeation chromatography.
Security algorithms in wireless LAN: proprietary or nonproprietary

Wireless LANs in business and for personal use are becoming common. However, many issues are impeding further adoption of the technology by end-users, in particular the inability or difficulty in providing adequate security between the networks and users. The two issues limiting wider acceptance are Authentication and Encryption. The IEEE 802.1x standard provides a framework for authentication of LAN users, while at the same time providing a base for sophisticated key management procedures. This paper aims to document these issues by comparing proprietary and nonproprietary Authentication and Encryption measures and listing the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
FEKO simulation of multi-resonant low-profile PIFA

A passive, low-profile multi-resonant Planar-Inverted-F Antenna (PIFA) element well-suited for portable communications is presented. The antenna combines the optimal low-profile geometry of a planar inverted-F antenna with a double-tuned structure to create a multi-resonant element with monopole-class radiation properties. The form factor and overall dimensions are held constant for comparisons to a similar single-resonant antenna in different near-field environments.
An implementation of a software development track in an information technology degree program

This paper will layout the University of Cincinnati's efforts in creating a software development track specialization for an information technology (IT) degree program to be started in the autumn quarter of 2004. The work done creating such an academic specialization for students is based on ACM SIGITE's initial implementation of IT curriculum guidelines. Input for the IT software development specialty was also obtained from faculty, students, and industry partners. Processes by which specific course offerings were chosen will be detailed; objectives of the track and courses, desired outcomes for students, content, and associated hands-on activities. In all, the paper will present a means by which a software development track can be successfully implemented in information technology programs at other universities that are interested in such an endeavor.
Mental Illness and the Ministry of the Local Church

Due to the stigma associated with mental illness in America, religious leaders and their congregations might be fearful of caring for and worshipping alongside a person with mental illness. This article recounts some of the challenges encountered by the pastor of a small congregation in attempting to provide care for a church member suffering with schizophrenia. It is proposed here that congregations need to grow in courage as they attempt to serve people who struggle with mental illness, just as people with mental illness exhibit courage in venturing out to participate in church life.
Experiments on node-to-node pinning control of Chua’s circuits

Abstract In this paper, we study the global intermittent pinning controllability of networks of coupled chaotic oscillators. We explore the feasibility of the recently presented node-to-node pinning control strategy through experiments on Chua’s circuits. We focus on the case of two peer-to-peer coupled Chua’s circuits and we build a novel test-bed platform comprised of three inductorless Chua’s oscillators. We investigate the effect of a variety of design parameters on synchronization performance, including the coupling strength between the oscillators, the control gains, and the switching frequency of node-to-node pinning control. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of this novel pinning control strategy in rapidly taming chaotic oscillator dynamics onto desired reference trajectories while minimizing the overall control effort and the number of pinned network sites. From an analytical standpoint, we present sufficient conditions for global node-to-node pinning controllability and we estimate the maximum switching period for network controllability by adapting and integrating available results on Lyapunov stability theory and partial averaging techniques.
Dominance, Cortisol, and Behavior in Small Groups of Female Cynomolgus Monkeys (Macaca fascicularis)

The relationships among social rank, basal cortisol concentrations, and social behavior were assessed in adult female cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). Subjects were 157 unrelated, reproductively intact animals housed in 30 small groups. Rank determinations were made monthly. Blood samples were collected on two occasions, 4.5 and 7.5 months following initial group formation. Regular behavioral observations were conducted on a subset of animals over a period of 4 weeks, 9 months following group formation. Analyses revealed that serum cortisol values were significantly correlated across the two sampling periods, with no significant change in absolute values. While social rank was positively correlated across both samples, there was no relationship between rank and cortisol. However, dominant and subordinate animals did differ in the rates of performance of aggressive and submissive behaviors. These data suggest that social rank does not influence baseline serum cortisol in adult female cynomolgus monkeys, despite stability in measures of rank and cortisol and the presence of the usual behavioral differences between dominants and subordinates.
Role of medullary blood flow in the pathogenesis of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury

Purpose of review—Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI). Alterations in renal medullary blood flow (MBF) contribute to the pathogenesis of renal IRI. Here we review recent insights into the mechanisms of altered MBF in the pathogenesis of IRI. Recent findings—Although cortical blood flow fully recovers following 30‐45 minutes of bilateral IRI, recent studies have indicated that there is a prolonged secondary fall in MBF that is associated with a long term decline in renal function. Recent findings indicate that angiopoeitin-1, atrial natriuretic peptide, heme oxygenase-1, and the gasotransmitters, carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide, may limit the severity of IRI by preserving MBF. Additional studies have also suggested a role for cytochrome P450 derived 20-HETE in the post-ischemic fall in MBF. Summary—Impaired MBF contributes to the pathogenesis of renal IRI. Measurement of renal MBF provides valuable insight into the underlying mechanisms of many renoprotective pathways. Identification of molecules that preserve renal MBF in IRI may lead to new therapies for AKI.
Evaluation of Organic-Hydrofluoric Acid Mixtures for Sandstone Acidizing

Mud acid, which is a mixture of hydrochloric (HCl) and hydrofluoric (HF) acids, is typically used to stimulate sandstone formations. The success rate of mud acid is limited mainly because of its high spending rate, high corrosion rate, and incompatibility with HCl sensitive minerals; i.e., illite. Organic (acetic, formic and citric) HF acid mixtures, in comparison, have a retarded nature and a low corrosion rate, and are compatible with sensitive sandstone formations; therefore, they can be used as an effective stimulation fluid alternative to regular mud acid. In this study, dissolution tests of kaolinite, illite or chlorite in acetic, formic and citric with 3 wt% HF acid was conducted. A coreflood was conducted to investigate the ability of organic acids, when combined with HF acid, to remove carbonaceous and siliceous minerals from Berea sandstone plugs at 250 °F. The core effluent samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma (ICP). The core plugs were analyzed using the X-ray diffraction (XRD). All of the tested organic acids were effective in dissolving calcium during the coreflood preflush stage without any indication of precipitation; however, only citric acid extracted aluminum during the preflush, while formic and acetic acids were not effective in leaching aluminum. Additionally, low amounts of aluminum were detected in the effluent of acetic-HF during the main flush and severe damage to the core plug was noticed. Although formic-HF acid extracted a significant amount of calcium and aluminum, there was no change in permeability before or after the treatment. Citric-HF acid dissolved a significant amount of calcium and aluminum, and an apparent increase in permeability was subsequently observed. In addition, a higher permeability ratio was obtained with low HF acid concentrations. This work provides new insights into the applications and potential limitations of organic-HF acids.
Surgeon assessment of renal preservation with partial nephrectomy provides information comparable to measurement of volume preservation with 3-dimensional image analysis.

Purpose: The strongest predictors of renal function after partial nephrectomy are the preoperative glomerular filtration rate and the amount of preserved parenchyma. Measuring volume preservation by 3-dimensional imaging is accurate but time-consuming. Percent functional volume preservation was designed to replace surgeon assessment of volume preservation with a less labor intensive, objective assessment. We compared volume preservation with 3-dimensional imaging, percent functional volume preservation and surgeon assessment of volume preservation as predictors of renal function after partial nephrectomy.Materials and Methods: We calculated volume preservation with 3-dimensional imaging, percent functional volume preservation and surgeon assessment of volume preservation in 41 patients with preoperative and postoperative cross-sectional imaging available. Surgeon assessment was validated internally in another 75 patients. Short-term and long-term renal function was assessed with univariate and multivariat...