cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A brain network basis of Fragile X syndrome behavioral penetrance determined by X chromosome inactivation in female mice

X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) in females is vital for normal brain function and cognition, as many X-linked genetic mutations lead to mental retardation and autism spectrum disorders, such as the fragile X syndrome (FXS). However, the degree by which XCI regulates disease presentation has been poorly investigated. To study this regulation in the mouse, here we quantified the brainwide composition of active-XC cells at single cell resolution using an X-linked MECP2-EGFP allele with known parent-of-origin. We present evidence that whole-brains, including all regions, on average favor maternal XC-active cells by 20%, or 8 million cells. This bias was conserved in heterozygous FXS mutant mice, which also corresponded to disease penetrance in maternal but not paternal FMR1 null mice. To localize the physical source of behavioral penetrance, brain-wide correlational screens successfully mapped mouse performance to cell densities in putative sensorimotor (e.g. sensory hindbrain, thalamus, globus pallidus) and sociability (e.g. visual/entorhinal cortices, bed nucleus stria terminalis, medial preoptic area) behavioral circuits of the open field sensorimotor and 3-chamber sociability assays, respectively. Overall, 50%/50% healthy/mutant cell density ratios in these brain networks were required for disease presentation in each behavior. These results suggest female X-linked behavioral penetrance of disease is regulated at the distributed level of mutant cell density in behavioral circuits, which is set by XCI that is subject to parent-of-origin effects. This work provides a novel explanation behind the broad and varied behavioral phenotypes commonly featured in female patients debilitated with X-linked mental disorders and may offer new entry points for behavioral therapeutics.
Second harmonic generation microscopy of collagen organization in tunable, environmentally responsive alginate hydrogels.

We fabricated photocrosslinked, environmentally responsive alginate hydrogels for tissue engineering applications. Methacrylated alginate (ALGMA) hydrogels were prepared across a variety and combination of ionic and covalent (chain growth, step growth, and mixed mode) crosslinking strategies to obtain a range of compressive moduli from 9.3 ± 0.2 kPa for the softest ionically crosslinked hydrogels to 22.6 ± 0.3 kPa for the dually crosslinked ionic mixed mode gels. The swelling behavior of the alginate hydrogels was significantly higher under basic pH conditions. Stiffer gels consistently swelled to a lesser degree compared to softer gels for all conditions. These hydrogels were stable – retaining >80% of their original mass for three weeks – when incubated in a basic solution of diluted sodium hydroxide, which mimicked accelerated degradation conditions. Encapsulated NIH/3T3 fibroblasts remained viable and proliferated significantly more in stiffer hydrogel substrates compared to softer gels. Additionally, the collagen secreted by encapsulated fibroblasts was quantifiably compared using second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging. Fibroblasts encapsulated in the softer hydrogels secreted significantly less collagen than the stiffer gels. The collagen in these softer gels was also more aligned than the stiffer gels. The ability to tune collagen organization using hydrogels has potential applications ranging from corneal wound healing where organized collagen is desired to epithelial wound scaffolds where a random organization is preferable.
Not in their name: re-interpreting discourses of STEM learning through the subjective experiences of minoritized girls

This paper problematizes the enduring conscription of STEM learning in discourses of U.S. global ascendancy, neoliberalism and militarism. Drawing on ethnographic data, we explore how girls of colo...
Intermediate water circulation changes in the Florida Straits from a 35 ka record of Mg/Li-derived temperature and Cd/Ca-derived seawater cadmium

Abstract We generated a high-resolution ocean record of bottom water temperature and seawater Cd from 546 m in the Florida Straits. The record extends to ∼35,000 yr before present, including all of Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 2 and part of MIS 3. Previously, seawater cadmium (Cdw) has been used as a proxy for the strength of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) during the last deglaciation. We now consider the temperature and oxygen isotopic composition of seawater reconstructed from the same core in order to provide a fuller picture of water mass properties and circulation at this location. During the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), Cdw levels were generally low, and a novel Mg/Li-derived temperature record reveals persistently cold temperatures (∼3.6 °C, two to three degrees colder than during the Holocene or Marine Isotope Stage 3). During the Younger Dryas and early Heinrich Stadial 1, Cdw was low and temperatures were elevated compared with periods of inferred stronger AMOC. By contrast, there is no indication of AMOC variability over Heinrich Stadials 2 and 3, consistent with previous studies that conclude the AMOC is less sensitive to freshwater forcing during glaciations than during the last deglaciation. While there is some inconsistency between proxies, Cdw increases over some MIS3 Dansgaard–Oeschger interstadials, providing qualified support for a strengthening in AMOC. This is similar to our previous finding that Cdw tracks AMOC variability during the deglaciation. This study highlights the distinct nature of water masses and circulation during the LGM, relative to the stadial (weak AMOC) periods of the deglaciation and Late MIS 3.
Using social media to discover unwanted behaviours displayed by visitors to nature parks: comparisons of nationally and privately owned parks in the Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa

Managers of protected areas that are popular among tourists need to combine conservation goals with assurances of visitor safety while providing high-quality service. The compromise amongst these g...
Central Actions of 3α,5α-THP Involving NMDA and GABAA Receptors Regulate Affective and Sexual Behavior of Female Rats.

The neurosteroid, 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (known as “allopregnanolone” or 3α,5α-THP), is produced in the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA), independent of peripheral sources of progestogens, where it has potential actions at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and GABA(A) receptors to facilitate rodent sexual behavior. Progestogens can also have anti-anxiety effects, but whether these involve actions of centrally-derived 3α,5α-THP or these receptors to support reproductively-relevant behavior is not well understood. We investigated the extent to which 3α,5α-THP’s actions via NMDA and/or GABAA receptors in the midbrain VTA influence reproductive behaviors. Estradiol-primed, ovariectomized/adrenalectomized (OVX/ADX) rats received midbrain VTA infusions of vehicle, a NMDA receptor blocker (MK-801; 200 ng), or a GABA(A) receptor blocker (bicuculline; 100 ng) followed by a second infusion of vehicle or 3α,5α-THP (100 ng). Reproductively-relevant behaviors were assessed: sexual (paced mating), anxiety-like (elevated plus maze), and social (partner preference, social interaction) behavior. Compared to vehicle, intra-VTA infusions of MK-801 exerted anxiolytic-like effects on elevated plus maze behavior and enhanced lordosis. Unlike prior observations in gonadally-intact rats, intra-VTA bicuculline had no effect on the behavior of OVX/ADX rats (likely due to a floor effect). Subsequent infusions of 3α,5α-THP reversed effects on lordosis and infusions of bicuculline inhibited 3α,5α-THP-facilitated lordosis. Thus, NMDA and GABA(A) receptors may act as mediators for reproductive behavioral effects of 3α,5α-THP in the midbrain VTA.
Secure Power Distribution Against Reactive Power Control Malfunction in DER Units

Penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as wind, solar and battery units are rapidly increasing in distribution power system (DPS). In view of power grid reliability and efficiency, cyber and physical secure of these units are highly important since it can directly impact power system operations. This paper investigates the dynamic behavior of power distribution during cyber, physical and natural strikes on reactive power control in DER units. Various fault scenarios including modifications in voltage-reactive power (Volt-Var) curve pattern such as slope of the curve, dead band; and changes in capacitive or/and inductive reactive power delivery to the power grid are presented. Further, fault scenarios are investigated with the presence of dynamic VAR (volt-ampere reactive) compensation (DVC) units in the system. A southern California 140-bus commercial distribution power system is selected as a test system and faults are analyzed in both Matlab/Simulink and ETAP simulation platforms. The results evidence that the modifications in reactive power control values at DER units significantly affects the voltage quality/security of the system and affect the number of switching actions of voltage regulators (VRs). In contrast, DPS connected with DVCs improves voltage quality and reduces the number of switching actions of VRs, also voltage quality/security is maintained during the faults.
A Low-Power BLS12-381 Pairing Cryptoprocessor for Internet-of-Things Security Applications

We present the first BLS12-381 elliptic-curve pairing cryptoprocessor for Internet-of-Things (IoT) security applications. Efficient finite-field arithmetic and algorithm-architecture co-optimizations together enable two orders of magnitude energy savings. We implement several countermeasures against timing and power side-channel attacks. Our cryptoprocessor is programmable to provide the flexibility to accelerate various elliptic-curve and pairing-based protocols, such as signature aggregation and functional encryption.
Comments about the Steinhaus tiling problem

Recently, using Fourier transform methods, it was shown that there is no measurable Steinhaus set in R 3 , a set which no matter how translated and rotated contains exactly one integer lattice point. Here, we show that this argument cannot generalize to any lattice and, on the other hand, give some lattices to which this method applies. We also show there is no measurable Steinhaus set for a special honeycomb lattice, the standard tetrahedral lattice in R 3 .
Electrical conductivity and activation volume for alpha -Li2SO4.

The electrical conductivity of the solid electrolyte \ensuremath{\alpha}-${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}$${\mathrm{SO}}_{4}$ is investigated for the temperature range 580--800 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C and for pressures up to 0.6 GPa. The migration enthalpy at normal pressure is 0.45\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05 eV, a somewhat larger value than that for most solid electrolytes. The migration volume is 0.5--0.6 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$ ${\mathrm{mole}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$. The small size of the lithium ion and the rotational freedom of the sulfate groups may be of importance for the ionic conductivity in \ensuremath{\alpha}-${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}$${\mathrm{SO}}_{4}$. .AE
Design for a network-based education system that evolves by peer and instructor interaction

A framework for a globally-distributed computer network education-delivery system is proposed. Also presented are some structural details of designs to promote the system's continued evolution requiring the generation and reuse of successful teaching and learning items. The system's growth is predicated on the basic idea that learning amongst peers in common or related domains can be most effective when the students are self-paced in contributing and evaluating items to be used simultaneously by others. With this system, item content will finally be delivered by a integration of all the multimedia channels made practically feasible by technology. The system is to facilitate the definition of concept-related clusters for learning items that are appropriate for students interested in solving a variety of classes of problems. Initially, links or bindings among the classes of clusters can be based on classification knowledge that is normally identified in traditional educational systems. Learning items will be accumulated and retained on the basis of statistical performance measures. The knowledge to define item clusters will be embedded in programs written to be intelligent agents. These agents will contain algorithms or methods for dynamically improving cluster definitions. Program systems will accumulate information on each student and on the items. This facilitates the assignment of a grade to each student to indicate his/her level of mastery or ability to perform in each area identified as a cluster center.
A candidate coder for the ITU-T's new wideband speech coding standard

This paper presents AT&T's candidate coder for the ITU-T's new wideband speech coding standard at 16, 24 and 32 kb/s. This coder achieves high speech quality with a low coder complexity. The basic idea of the coder is to perform closed-loop pitch prediction on perceptually weighted speech, and then quantize the prediction residual using perceptually based transform coding techniques. A first version of the coder based on DFT was thoroughly tested and submitted to the ITU-T in February 1996, and it was selected as one of two surviving candidates to advance to the next phase. A revised version based on MDCT was later submitted in October 1996. Both versions are described.
Late-presenting right congenital diaphragmatic hernia with severe hypotrophy of the right lobe of the liver.

Introduction Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) presenting after 30 days of life is unusual and has a variant pattern of presentation.
Carcinoma in situ of the colorectum: SEER trends by race, gender, and total colorectal cancer.

Background and Objectives To determine if Americans of African origin (blacks) have less access to colonoscopic polypectomy than Americans of European origin (whites), the rate of carcinoma in situ of the colorectum (CIS), a disease more similar to benign adenoma of the colorectum than invasive cancer in its symptomatology, discovery, and treatment, was determined in the United States from 1973 to 1994. The hypothesis being tested is that CIS will be far less common in blacks than in whites and that rates of CIS should be increasing in whites from 1973 to 1994. Methods CIS and invasive carcinoma of the colorectum incidence data were obtained from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Public Use Files from 1973 through 1994. Rates were age adjusted and proportions determined by division of CIS rates for each subsite by total carcinoma rates, for each year, race, and gender. The colorectum was divided anatomically in this analysis at the junction of the descending and sigmoid colon. Results The relationships between male/female and black/white CIS incidence rates were broadly similar to invasive cancer rates over the 21 years of SEER, demonstrating a white male predominance for distal disease, a black male predominance for proximal disease, and a decline in incidence since 1988. CIS as a proportion of total colorectal cancer increased in all races and genders from 1973 to 1987, but then declined in all groups. Conclusions The majority of CIS is excised by endoscopic resection. Therefore, this might be considered a surrogate population for those individuals who have colonoscopic resection of benign adenomas. It is this latter treatment that has been hypothesized to be the cause for the declining incidence of invasive colorectal cancer. However, data presented herein do not support this hypothesis. J. Surg. Oncol. 1999;71:123–129. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Additional endpoints and overview of a mouse skeletal variant assay for detecting exposure to teratogens.

CD-1 mice were exposed in utero to one of 14 treatment regimes, several of them being replicated, with close agreement between series. Prenatal exposure to a teratogenic dose at a sensitive time enabled detection of 10 of 14 teratogen regimes by alterations in frequency or severity of a substantial number of the 88 variants in the Skeletal Variant Assay System (SVAS) screen when examined at 60–65 days post natal (DPN). These included 2,4,5-T (245T), Trifluralin (TFL), Maneb (MNB), Decamethrin (DMT), Acetazolamide (ACZM) either at 8 days post-coitus (DPC) or days 9–11 PC, trypan blue (TB), or 5′ Bromodeoxyuridine (BUDR) on either 7 DPC, 8 DPC, or 9 DPC. Most of these observations have been reported elsewhere. All of the treatment regimes mentioned above, and another group of treatments, could be detected in the exposed CD-1 cohorts when additional endpoints were employed. One such endpoint was “frequently responding variants.” These were: Interfrontals (IF), Parted Frontals (PF), Preoptic Sutures (PS), Foramina Transversaria Imperfecta of the first cervical (C) vertebra (FTI C1), FTI of the axis (C2), Accessory (Acc) Transverse Foramina (TF) of C3–C6, malformations of C3–C7, Fourteen (14) Ribs, Carpal Fusions (Fus), Lumbar Fus, 27-Presacral Vertebrae (PSV), and Sacral Fus. This endpoint revealed significant differences in the initial group of 10, plus Captan (CAPT) and Phenytoin (DPH). Yet another useful endpoint reported here was the existence of high magnitude effects (i.e., dramatic alterations in frequency of occurrence of a variant). These included IF in TB and ACZM; PF in ACZM; PS in BUDR; FTI-C1 in TB and 245T; FTI-C2 in 245T; 14 Ribs in ACZM, BUDR, and TFL; Carpal Fus in TB; 27-PSV in ACZM; Fewer than (<) 30 Caudal Vertebrae (Vert) in 245T, TFL; Caudal Fus in TB, ACZM-D9. Eight treatment regimes in all could be detected by the existence of 3 or more high magnitude effects (245T, MNB, TB, ACZM8, ACZM9-11, phenytoin, and possibly BUDR on days 7 or 8, each seen in one of two series only). Clusters of related variants were affected in 9 of the 14 groups: Frontal (F) bones and C Vert in 245T; F bones in ACZM-D8; Fus in Posterior Vert Column in ACZM-D9-11; C Vert and Fus in Vert and articular skeleton in TB; Thoracic (Th) Vert and rib-cage effects in BUDR. Finally, unique effects were seen in 4 of the 14 groups: Fused F and F Foramen (For) variants in 245T; For Palatinum Minus Posterior Double in TFL; Maxillary For I Absent (Abs), Dyssymphysis/Fus Th Vert, Tarsal Fus, the magnitude of the IF effect in TB; Acc Mental For in ACZM. Using one or more of the endpoints employed, 12 of the teratogenic regimes employed (not cortisone or thalidomide exposure) could be detected in the surviving, non-malformed adult CD-1 populations; 9 of the 12 were positive for three or more of the five endpoints. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Convective and radiative internal heat transfer augmentation with fiber arrays

Abstract A detailed numerical study is performed to investigate radiative and convective heat transfer enhancement in pipes filled with small diameter (∼100 μm) silicon carbide fibers. Radiation between fibers and the tube wall, conduction within fibers and convection from the fibers to the surrounding fluid drive the heat transfer enhancement. Macroscopic (porous media) modeling is used to determine the velocity, pressure, and temperatures fields for periodic fiber arrays of various porosites under laminar flow conditions ( Re D = 1000) . Key features of the macroscopic model include two-dimensional effects, nongray radiative exchange, and the relaxation of the local thermodynamic equilibrium assumption. Results show that fiber arrays increase heat transfer largely by the radiative mode, with significant enhancement shown for porosities as high as 0.99. The increased pressure drop due to the presence of the fibers rises monotonically as the porosity is reduced.
Predicting method of terminal velocity for grains

ABSTRACT Terminal velocities in air of com, soybeans, wheat, oats, and barley were measured. The actual terminal velocities of the grains were found to be related to the theoretical terminal velocities of the grains by one of two dimensionless geometric shape factors. Based on the shape factors and the theoretical values, the terminal velocity of the five seed grains can be predicted. The maximum error of prediction was 15.7%.
Life-history connections to rates of aging in terrestrial vertebrates

The actuarial senescence (i.e., the rate of increase in adult mortality with age) was related to body mass, development period, and age at sexual maturity across 124 taxonomic families of terrestrial vertebrates. Model selection based on Akaike's information criterion values adjusted for small size showed that the rate of aging decreases with increasing body mass, gestation period, age at maturity, and possession of flight. Among families of mammals, actuarial senescence was related to extrinsic mortality rate (standardized regression coefficient = 0.215), gestation period (−0.217), and age at maturity (−0.553). Although rate of aging in birds also was related to the embryo development period, birds grow several times more rapidly than mammals, and therefore, the connection between rate of early development and rate of aging is unclear. The strong vertebrate-wide relationship between rate of aging, or life span, and age at maturity can be explained by density-dependent feedback of adult survival rate on the recruitment of young individuals into the breeding population. Thus, age at maturity seems to reflect extrinsic mortality, which, in turn, influences selection on mechanisms that postpone physiological and actuarial senescence. Because rate of embryo development influences rate of aging independently of the age at maturity, in a statistical sense, the evolutionary diversification of development and aging seem to be connected in both birds and mammals; however, the linking mechanisms are not known.
Scattering of Light by Light in Plasmas

A quantum-mechanical calculation of the scattering rate of light by light in the polarizable medium of a plasma is carried out. It is shown that if the frequency ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}$ of the incident light is much greater than the electron plasma frequency ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{p}$, the $\ensuremath{\rho}{A}^{2}$ term in the nonrelativistic Hamiltonian coupling the radiation to matter dominates the j.A interaction, provided the frequency shifts $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\omega}$ satisfy $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\ll}{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}$. In this approximation, the scattering amplitude is proportional to the Green's function for electron-density fluctuations (which reduces to the electron-density correlation function in the classical limit). This leads to an expression for the differential scattering rate which is formally exact to all orders in the interparticle interactions. The spectrum of the scattered light in this approximation has resonances at the collective modes of the plasma if $\frac{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}}{c}\ensuremath{\ll}{k}_{D}$, the Debye wave number. The total scattering rate is estimated in the collisionless (random-phase) approximation. Under the conditions of this calculation, rather high plasma densities and temperatures are required to obtain a detectable rate.
Multilevel Lineages and Multidimensional Trees: The Levels of Lineage and Phylogeny Reconstruction

The relation among method, concept, and theory in science is complicated. I seek to shed light on that relation by considering an instance of it in systematics: the additional challenges phylogeneticists face when reconstructing phylogeny not at a single level but simultaneously at multiple levels of the hierarchy. How does this complicate the task of phylogenetic inference, and how might it inform and shape the conceptual foundations of phylogenetics? This offers a lens through which the interplay of method, theory, and concepts may be understood in systematics, which, in turn, provides data for a more general account.
The rise of public sector psychosocial nursing

For a number of years, the Department of Psychosocial Nursing, University of Washington, engaged in a region-wide State-University collaboration with the Division of Mental Health authorities in states of the Pacific Northwest. This collaboration provided the basis for another 12 years of a Washington State Division of Mental Health-Department of Psychosocial Nursing contract to improve nursing in the state's two mental hospitals. This article describes the history, contractual relationships, and components of these projects. It concludes with a discussion of the consequences of these years of State-University cooperation, including conceptual issues, and the generation of the psychosocial nursing subspecialty, public sector psychosocial nursing.
Does first episode polarity predict risk for suicide attempt in bipolar disorder

Abstract Background Defining bipolar disorder (BD) subtypes with increased risk of suicidal behavior may help clinical management. We tested the hypothesis that the polarity of a patient's first mood episode would be a marker for BD subtypes with differential risk for suicidality. Methods One hundred thirteen subjects with DSM-IV defined BD were classified based on whether their first reported episode was manic/hypomanic (FM) or depressed (FD). They were compared on demographic and clinical variables. Logistic regression adjusting for potential confounds tested the association between first episode polarity and history of suicide attempt. Results Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that FD group membership was associated with eightfold odds of a past suicide attempt, adjusting for years ill and total number of lifetime major depressive episodes. Limitations Sample size, retrospective design, recall bias, assessment during a mood episode, and imprecise recall of hypomania. Conclusions Polarity of patients' first reported mood episode suggested a depression-prone subtype with a greater probability of past suicide attempt. The FM group had more alcoholism and psychosis, but less likelihood of past suicide attempt. Validation of these putative subtypes requires prospective study.
Developing proof carrying code to formally assure termination in fault tolerant distributed controls systems

We address the semantic gap between the model and the implementation of control algorithms for distributed systems in a formal fashion: we provide an interactive (partially automated) method by which to translate the global, model level theoretical properties, such as stability and convergence, into code level assertions and invariants which assure termination of the relevant implementations and validity of the result. We outline a simple flight control system example for altitude holding, and describe a fault-tolerant distributed agreement protocol among n processor nodes, in the presence of a varying network topology. We develop a Lyapunov-like function for the distributed algorithm, and attain a polynomial time theoretical bound on the convergence time T conv ∝ n3. We then exploit the Lyapunov function and convergence proof, in order to derive requisite ANSI-C Specification Language (ACSL) annotations for the C code distributed implementation, in order to guarantee termination. The ACSL annotations can then be used to automatically generate formal proof obligations via the Frama-C tool. These proof obligations also encompass assertions relating to timing, memory allocation, type checking and processor specific issues. The proof obligations can then be automatically discharged using a theorem prover, and their success guarantees that the behavior of the corresponding distributed code will evince the global properties proven for the model. Thus, the verification process spans efforts from the high-level control theory to the low-level implementation as a C program.
The use of bone morphogenetic protein in thoracolumbar spine procedures: analysis of the MarketScan longitudinal database

Abstract Background context The use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) in the thoracolumbar spine remains controversial, with many questioning the risks and benefits of this new biologic. Purpose To describe national trends, incidence of complications, and revision rates associated with BMP use in thoracolumbar spine procedures. Study design/setting Administrative database study. Patient sample A matched cohort of 52,259 patients undergoing thoracolumbar fusion surgery from 2006 to 2010 were identified in the MarketScan database. Patients without BMP treatment were matched 2:1 to patients receiving intraoperative BMP. Outcome measures Revision rates and postoperative complications. Methods The MarketScan database was used to select patients undergoing thoracolumbar fusion procedures, with and without intraoperative BMP. We ascertained outcome measures using either International Classification of Disease , ninth revision , or Current Procedural Terminology coding, and matched groups were evaluated using a bivariate and multivariate analyses. Kaplan-Meier estimates of fusions failure rates were also calculated. Results Patients receiving intraoperative BMP underwent fewer refusions, decompressions, posterior and anterior revisions, or any revision procedure (single level 4.53% vs. 5.85%, p Conclusions In national data analysis of thoracolumbar procedures, we found that BMP was associated with decreased incidence of revision spinal surgery and with a slight increased risk of overall complications at 30 days. Although no BMP-associated increased risk of malignancy was found, lack of long-term follow-up precludes detection of between-group differences in malignancies and other rare events that may not appear until later.
Diametrical compression of rings

Strains generated during large plastic deformation of diametrically-compressed rings were measured using surface grid distortions. For rings sufficiently thick in the axial direction, the deformation pattern approximates plane strain bending. A strain/displacement relation is suggested and applications to the study of workability illustrated.
Evaluation of the febrile child 3 to 36 months old in the era of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine: focus on occult bacteremia

Abstract The management of febrile infants 3 to 36 months old has been an ongoing topic of controversy, particularly with respect to occult bacteremia. Published strategies and algorithms have been developed to aid the clinician in the evaluation and management of these children. With the licensure and implementation of universal hepatovalent conjugate pneumococcal (PCV7) vaccination in infants, it is worthwhile to reexamine the data on which these recommendations were based. In this article, we will discuss the management of occult bacteremia in young febrile children in the era of PCV7 immunization and propose a management strategy for young febrile children.
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Restoring Function

The reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has become increasingly popular over the past 20 years. Although the initial indications for RTSA were limited to patients with cuff tear arthropathy, more recently, the indications for this prosthesis have been expanded to include rheumatoid arthritis, trauma, revision, and tumor. Improved understanding of glenohumeral kinematics and advances in prosthetic design has resulted in improvements in midterm survivorship; however, radiographic and functional results are still a source of concern. With the recent expansion of surgical indications and issues related to implant longevity, careful patient selection and attention to surgical technique remain paramount to clinical success. In this review, we will discuss the history and evolution of the RTSA as well as advances in modern implant design.
Electron transfer from d10 species: A possible initiation for free radical pathways in oxidative additions

Abstract The possibility of electron transfer being the initiation step in free radical pathways in oxidative addition is probed by exposing nickel(0) and platinum(0) species to a variety of electron acceptors; one-electron transformations are found to be facile in these systems.
Improvement of RNA secondary structure prediction using RNase H cleavage and randomized oligonucleotides

RNA secondary structure prediction using free energy minimization is one method to gain an approximation of structure. Constraints generated by enzymatic mapping or chemical modification can improve the accuracy of secondary structure prediction. We report a facile method that identifies single-stranded regions in RNA using short, randomized DNA oligonucleotides and RNase H cleavage. These regions are then used as constraints in secondary structure prediction. This method was used to improve the secondary structure prediction of Escherichia coli 5S rRNA. The lowest free energy structure without constraints has only 27% of the base pairs present in the phylogenetic structure. The addition of constraints from RNase H cleavage improves the prediction to 100% of base pairs. The same method was used to generate secondary structure constraints for yeast tRNA(Phe), which is accurately predicted in the absence of constraints (95%). Although RNase H mapping does not improve secondary structure prediction, it does eliminate all other suboptimal structures predicted within 10% of the lowest free energy structure. The method is advantageous over other single-stranded nucleases since RNase H is functional in physiological conditions. Moreover, it can be used for any RNA to identify accessible binding sites for oligonucleotides or small molecules.
An in vivo function of glucagon-lnduced phenylalanine: Pyruvate transaminase in p-chlorophenylalanine-treated rats

Abstract The effect of glucagon-induced phenylalanine:pyruvate transaminase on the urinary excretion of the unconjugated metabolites of phenylalanine transamination was studied in rats. Chronic injection of glucagon induced an 18-fold increase in hepatic phenylalanine:pyruvate transaminase activity. Treatment with p -chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) blocked phenylalanine hydroxylase and caused an elevation of plasma phenylalanine following administration of an intraperitoneal loading dose of this amino acid. Gasliquid Chromatographic analysis demonstrated the presence of phenylpyruvate, phenyllactate, and O -hydroxyphenylacetate in the urine of PCPA- and PCPA-glucagontreated rats, but not control or glucagon-treated animals. Combined PCPA-glucagon treatment caused twofold increase in phenylpyruvate and phenyllactate concentrations and a fivefold increase in O -hydroxyphenylacetate concentration, when compared to urinary metabolite levels from rats receiving only PCPA treatment. A decrease in plasma phenylalanine was found together with the elevated urinary levels of the phenylalanine transamination metabolites. The results provide the first evidence that the unconjugated transamination metabolite concentrations increase when concurrent treatment with glucagon causes high-level induction of hepatic phenylalanine:pyruvate transaminase.
Recognition of circle graphs

Abstract This paper presents a new algorithm for recognizing circle graphs, combining ideas from an earlier circle graph recognition algorithm due to Gabor, Hsu, and Supowit and an algorithm to determine whether a graph can be decomposed by the split decomposition. The result is an O(n2) algorithm for placing chords on the circle when the split decomposition is known. When combined with the result of the companion paper, this gives an O(n2) algorithm for circle graph recognition.
Incidence and Prevalence of the Sexual Dysfunctions: A Critical Review of the Empirical Literature

The research which has assessed the incidence and prevalence of sexual dysfunctions is reviewed. Twenty-three studies are evaluated. Studies completed with community samples indicate a current prevalence of 5-10% for inhibited female orgasm, 4-9% for male erectile disorder, 4-10% for inhibited male orgasm, and 36-38% for premature ejaculation. Stable community estimates with regard to the current prevalence of female sexual arousal disorder, vaginismus, and dyspareunia are not available. Recent studies completed with clinical samples suggest an increase in the frequency of orgasmic and erectile dysfunction and a decrease in premature ejaculation as presenting problems. Desire disorders have increased as presenting problems in sex clinics, with recent data indicating that males outnumber females. Methodological limitations of these studies are identified and suggestions for future research are offered.
Ultra-violet absorption spectra and π-electron structures of nitromethane and the nitromethyl anion

The ultra-violet absorption spectrum of nitromethane was measured under various conditions. Besides the weak band at 270 mμ, a strong band, which may be regarded as due to the longest wavelength π→π* transition band, was observed at 198 mμ in the gaseous state. Further, the absorption spectrum of nitromethane was measured in aqueous solutions with several different ph values, and a strong band was observed at 233 mμ. From the fact that the pKa value evaluated on the basis of the ph dependence of the absorption intensity is equal to that obtained electrometrically, it was concluded that the 233 mμ band is to be ascribed to the nitromethyl anion (H2C-NO2). This band was found to shift to 238 mμ in alcoholic KOH solution. The π-electron structure of the anion was studied theoretically by taking into account configuration interaction in terms of the ground, charge transfer, and locally excited configurations. It is shown that the 233 mμ band of the anion may be interpreted as an intramolecular charge-transfer...
The fetish of the objective finding.

Pressure is mounting for clinicians to rely solely on “objective” measures when evaluating workers with possible work-related disease. These measures are intended to largely supplant the worker's history as sources of information regarding diagnosis, work relatedness, and extent of disability. While seeming to promote more accurate and neutral evaluation methods, the underlying agenda is to reduce business costs by denying work-related illness and disability. Promoting the view of occupational health as the province of technical experts, the campaign for the “objective” finding silences workers as unqualified to comment. The methods proposed to enhance objectivity also suffer from significant specific shortcomings. To resist efforts to fetishize the objective finding, clinicians need to recognize the subjective elements of objective methods as well as the objective value of subjective data. This requires recognition of the central role of workers and histories in the clinical evaluation process.
Use of pulse wave and color flow Doppler echocardiography in mouse models of human disease.

Abstract The noninvasive assessment of cardiovascular physiology in mice is challenging because of their small size and extremely rapid heart rates. In this study, we sought to determine the feasibility and utility of pulse wave (PW) and color flow Doppler imaging techniques when applied to mouse models of cardiac remodeling. We performed transverse aortic banding, induced aortic insufficiency (AI), or sham procedures in wild-type mice. Animals were anesthetized and transthoracic echocardiography was performed, including PW and color flow Doppler imaging. In aortic banded mice, color flow Doppler imaging was used to identify flow around the aortic arch, and PW measurements were performed distal to the constriction. A high-velocity jet across the aortic constriction was detected in all 4 banded animals. Both modalities were applied to AI mice in which AI was detected in all 5 mice but in none of the 5 shams. Pulse wave and color flow Doppler imaging were also used to screen senescent mice for valve abnormalities; AI was detected in 3 of 20 and mitral regurgitation in 2 of 20. We demonstrate here that PW and color flow Doppler imaging techniques are useful in the evaluation of mouse models of cardiac remodeling. In addition, this study indicates that these modalities may be potentially useful to screen transgenic mice for valve abnormalities. (J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2002;15:708-14.)
Quantum computing with defects

Identifying and designing physical systems for use as qubits, the basic units of quantum information, are critical steps in the development of a quantum computer. Among the possibilities in the solid state, a defect in diamond known as the nitrogen-vacancy (NV-1) center stands out for its robustness—its quantum state can be initialized, manipulated, and measured with high fidelity at room temperature. Here we describe how to systematically identify other deep center defects with similar quantum-mechanical properties. We present a list of physical criteria that these centers and their hosts should meet and explain how these requirements can be used in conjunction with electronic structure theory to intelligently sort through candidate defect systems. To illustrate these points in detail, we compare electronic structure calculations of the NV-1 center in diamond with those of several deep centers in 4H silicon carbide (SiC). We then discuss the proposed criteria for similar defects in other tetrahedrally coordinated semiconductors.
Predictability in the Extended Range

This paper describes the results of extended range predictability experiments using an efficient two-level spherical quasi-geostrophic model. The experiments have an initial rms doubling time of about two days. This growth rate, along with an initial error of about one-half the initial error of present operational models, produces an rms error equal to the climatological rms error and a correlation of 0.5 on about day 12 of the forecast. On the largest scales, this limiting point is reached shortly thereafter. The error continues to grow at a decreasing rate until at about 30 days the forecast skill is extremely small and comparable to the skill of a persistence forecast. Various time averages at various lags are examined for skill in the extended range. Filters that weighted most strongly in the initial forecast days provide increased skill.
AKI in the ICU: definition, epidemiology, risk stratification, and outcomes

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has emerged as a major public health problem that affects millions of patients worldwide and leads to decreased survival and increased progression of underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recent consensus criteria for definition and classification of AKI have provided more consistent estimates of AKI epidemiology. Patients, in particular those in the ICU, are dying of AKI and not just simply with AKI. Even small changes in serum creatinine concentrations are associated with a substantial increase in the risk of death. AKI is not a single disease but rather a syndrome comprising multiple clinical conditions. Outcomes from AKI depend on the underlying disease, the severity and duration of renal impairment, and the patient's renal baseline condition. The development of AKI is the consequence of complex interactions between the actual insult and subsequent activation of inflammation and coagulation. Contrary to the conventional view, recent experimental and clinical data argue against renal ischemia–reperfusion as a sine qua non condition for the development of AKI. Loss of renal function can occur without histological signs of tubular damage or even necrosis. The detrimental effects of AKI are not limited to classical well-known symptoms such as fluid overload and electrolyte abnormalities. AKI can also lead to problems that are not readily appreciated at the bedside and can extend well beyond the ICU stay, including progression of CKD and impaired innate immunity. Experimental and small observational studies provide evidence that AKI impairs (innate) immunity and is associated with higher infection rates.
On the location of flame edge in Shadowgraph pictures of spherical flames: a theoretical and experimental study

In this paper, a theoretical model based on geometrical optics has been developed to analyze the light intensity pattern of Shadowgraph pictures of spherical flames. The theoretical results have been compared with experimental measurement of light intensity profiles across the flame front using commercially available image processing software. These results are in good agreement. The theory predicts that the sudden change of light intensity from dark to bright does not coincide with the flame edge unless the flame thickness is negligible. Experimental results agree very well with the theoretical predictions.
Characterization of a new in-line SID mode and comparison with high energy CID

Abstract A new mode of operation for an in-line surface induced dissociation device in a tandem four sector instrument was developed based on SIMION ion trajectory calculations. The calculations predict that a double deflection mode of operation provides a more focused precursor ion beam at the target electrode compared to a single deflection mode and suggests improved SID efficiencies might be obtained. Characterization of the double deflection mode of operation was accomplished by examining standard compounds commonly used for SID experiments. Ion/surface reactions using a hydrocarbon surface and a surface coated with a perfluoropolyether revealed that the correct target was indeed being bombarded. Efficiency measurements were made by measuring precursor ion intensities prior to the collision region and product ion intensities after MS-2. Efficiencies were compared for a variety of precursor ions between single deflection mode, double deflection mode, and high energy CID in the four sector instrument. Efficiency values ranging from 3.2 to 15.4% indicated that, for most ions, double deflection mode was 2–10 fold more efficient than single deflection mode or CID. The most dramatic differences in efficiencies were observed for peptide precursor ions.
An exploratory study of interrelationships among technological and operational variables in paced assembly lines

Abstract This paper reports the existence of interrelationships among technological and operational variables pertaining to paced assembly lines. These variables are average cycle time, average number of workers, average number of work elements per station, average distance between workers, length of line, and average weight of product. The findings in the form of regression equations are based on a mail survey of 254 companies in the United States. The potential value of such equations lies in the fact that they represent empirical yardsticks which a company might use for diagnostic purposes in its own operations. For example, some interesting ‘ballpark’ comparisons might be obtained by a firm by simply inserting actual data into the regression equation for its particular product classification and observing how closely the result approximates the norm. This study was exploratory in nature and suggests several areas for further investigations.
Production of meiosis-activating sterols from metabolically engineered yeast.

Meiosis-activating sterols (MAS), a class of potent regulators of reproductive processes, are difficult to obtain by chemical synthesis or isolation from natural sources. We demonstrate the development of metabolically engineered strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae that accumulate MAS as the predominant sterol product. Homologous recombination was used to construct an erg24Δ erg25Δ hem1Δ mutant RXY4.3, which lacked sterol Δ14 reductase, C-4 oxidase, and δ-aminolevulinate synthase. The HEM1 deletion allowed sterol import and rendered RXY4.3 viable under aerobic conditions. This mutant accumulated 4,4-dimethyl-5α-cholesta-8,14,24-trien-3β-ol (FF-MAS), and a similar erg25Δ hem1Δ mutant produced 4,4-dimethyl-5α-cholesta-8,24-dien-3β-ol (T-MAS). Based on consistent yields of ∼5 μg of FF-MAS per mL of culture, fermentation of genetically modified yeast compares favorably with other approaches to produce MAS.
A proposed Procedure for Facilitating the Analysis of Lease-Purchase Decisions by Consumers

Advertising extolling the advantages of leasing an automobile is increasing, leading many consumers to ask whether leasing makes sense as an alternative to ownership. This paper sets forth a simple procedure which professional financial advisors and educators can use to help consumers make this decision. The procedure can be applied to any buy-lease decision. In what follows, key variables in the buy-lease decision are identified, and an example using actual data is presented to illustrate the procedure.