cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of the Zygomaticofacial Foramen in the Orbitozygomatic Craniotomy: Anatomic Report

Objective Elevation of the lateral orbital rim and zygomatic arch during an orbitozygomatic craniotomy requires a bone cut across the zygoma, which commonly extends into the lateral edge of the inferior orbital fissure. The zygomaticofacial foramen has been identified as a superficial landmark for the cut that extends into the inferior orbital fissure. This study examined the usefulness of the zygomaticofacial foramen during orbitozygomatic craniotomy. Methods One-hundred two dry hemicrania were used in this study. The zygomaticofacial foramen was considered to be related to the inferior orbital fissure when it was located on the zygoma in the area between lines extending in the medial-to-lateral direction along the long axis of the fissure and crossing the anterior and posterior ends of the lateral edge of the fissure. Results The zygomaticofacial foramen varied from being absent to representing as many as four small openings. A single foramen was observed in one-half of the specimens. Of the 115 zygomaticofacial foramina, 93 were related to the inferior orbital fissure. Among the 51 specimens with a single foramen, 49 foramina met the criteria for being related to the inferior orbital fissure; in those cases, there would have been no difference in the amount of bone resected using the inferior orbital fissure or the zygomaticofacial foramen as the landmark for the zygomatic cut. Conclusion The zygomaticofacial foramen was a reliable landmark for locating the inferior orbital fissure and making the cut across the zygoma in only 50% of the specimens.
Colonic microbiome is altered in alcoholism

Several studies indicate the importance of colonic microbiota in metabolic and inflammatory disorders and importance of diet on microbiota composition. The effects of alcohol, one of the prominent components of diet, on colonic bacterial composition is largely unknown. Mounting evidence suggests that gut-derived bacterial endotoxins are cofactors for alcohol-induced tissue injury and organ failure like alcoholic liver disease (ALD) that only occur in a subset of alcoholics. We hypothesized that chronic alcohol consumption results in alterations of the gut microbiome in a subgroup of alcoholics, and this may be responsible for the observed inflammatory state and endotoxemia in alcoholics. Thus we interrogated the mucosa-associated colonic microbiome in 48 alcoholics with and without ALD as well as 18 healthy subjects. Colonic biopsy samples from subjects were analyzed for microbiota composition using length heterogeneity PCR fingerprinting and multitag pyrosequencing. A subgroup of alcoholics have an altered colonic microbiome (dysbiosis). The alcoholics with dysbiosis had lower median abundances of Bacteroidetes and higher ones of Proteobacteria. The observed alterations appear to correlate with high levels of serum endotoxin in a subset of the samples. Network topology analysis indicated that alcohol use is correlated with decreased connectivity of the microbial network, and this alteration is seen even after an extended period of sobriety. We show that the colonic mucosa-associated bacterial microbiome is altered in a subset of alcoholics. The altered microbiota composition is persistent and correlates with endotoxemia in a subgroup of alcoholics.
A molecular dynamics investigation of the titration of a trivalent aqueous ion

We carried out a series of molecular dynamics simulations of the hydrolysis of a model trivalent metal ion in aqueous solution. We use a dissociative model for water and examine the spontaneous speciation of M3+ into M(OH)n(3-n)+ (n =1,4) both in neutral solution and as a function of added protons and hydroxide ions. The species distributions in neutral solution correspond reasonably well with those expected for real trivalent metal ions at neutral pH. However, the change in the species distributions as a function of either added protons or hydroxide ions is much less than expected with very large concentrations of protons or hydroxide ions required to shift the species equilibria in either direction. The influence of added protons and hydroxide ions on the species distributions appears to be proportional to the average charge of the hydrolysis couples, being highest for the 3+/2+ couple and lowest for the 1+/0 and 0/1- couples. Proton exchange rates vary with proton/hydroxide ion concentration giving a minimum at intermediate values ([H+]≈ 0.166) with increasing rates at both lower and higher pH.
The influence of surface radiation on laminar forced-convection film boiling

A new approach to address the effect of surface radiation on a laminar film boiling flow over a horizontal flat plate is suggested. Previously developed approximate expressions of the thermal boundary-layer thickness and the wall shear stress of a moving surface in a flowing liquid are used to circumvent the complicated simultaneous solution of the vapor and liquid flow. Approximate closed-form expressions to predict the wall heat transfer and skin friction are obtained. For a water-steam system at atmospheric pressure within the wall temperature range considered (Tw<800°C), the surface radiation contribution is negligible in the theoretical wall heat transfer predictions during subcooled T∞=20°C forced-convection film boiling.
Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed Methods: An Analysis of Research Design in Articles on Principal Professional Development (1998-2008)

AbstractThe study’s purpose was to examine the articles on principal professional development published in eight peer-reviewed journals (1998–2008) to assess trends in the types of articles, prevalence of mixed methods designs, and purposes for mixing. Data analyses were implemented in two stages. First stage, a systematic conceptual content analysis was used to categorize articles as conceptual papers (35%), qualitative (22%), mixed methods (18%), quantitative (15%), and literature reviews (10%). Second stage, the analysis of the purpose and design of the mixed methods studies revealed that the method of integration occurred typically at the data interpretation stage; sequential designs and dominant–less dominant designs were prevalent; and complementarity was the most common purpose for combining methods. Implications regarding the identified trends are discussed.
Manipulation of growth to reduce mercury concentrations in sport fish on a whole-system scale

Altering food web structure has been shown to influence mercury (Hg) concentrations in sport fish. Here, we describe a whole-system manipulation designed to assess the effectiveness of stocking relatively high-quality, low-Hg prey (rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss) as a means of increasing northern pike (Esox lucius) growth to reduce Hg concentrations. A replicated pond experiment served as a reference for the lake experiment and provided information to parameterize bioenergetics simulations. Results indicate that stocking relatively high-quality, low-Hg prey is a rapid and effective method to reduce sport fish Hg concentrations by up to 50% through an increase in individual northern pike biomass. Large northern pike, the fish that tend to be the most contaminated, were affected most by the manipulation. The observed declines in northern pike Hg concentrations indicate that stocking might be used to reduce Hg concentrations in sport fish prior to harvest. However, after 1 year, northern pike Hg concentr...
Nitrous oxide and human state-dependent memory

State-dependent effects of nitrous oxide on human memory were examined by administering serial and paired-associate learning tasks to subjects receiving 20 and 30% nitrous oxide or placebo. Nitrous oxide in 30% concentration impaired learning of both tasks. In addition, it produced an atypical form of asymmetric state-dependent memory; subjects who learned while receiving placebo and recalled while receiving nitrous oxide displayed the worst recall.
Electrically addressable parallel nanowires with 30 nm spacing from micromolding and nanoskiving.

This paper describes the fabrication of arrays of parallel, electrically addressable metallic nanowires by depositing alternating layers of thin films of metal and polymer—both planar and topographically patterned—and sectioning the laminated structures with an ultramicrotome (nanoskiving). The structures that resulted from this process had two distinct regions: one in which parallel Au nanowires were separated by a minimum distance of 30 nm, and one in which the nanowires diverged such that the distal ends were individually addressable by low-resolution (≥10 μm) photolithography. Conductive polyaniline (PANI) was electrochemically deposited across the nanowire electrodes to demonstrate their electrical addressability, continuity, and physical separation. Before deposition, the wires were electrically isolated; with the PANI, they were electrically connected. After dry etching to remove the polymer, the gap between the nanowire electrodes returned to an insulating state. This procedure provides a method f...
Estimating the Efficacy of Alcoholics Anonymous without Self‐Selection Bias: An Instrumental Variables Re‐Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

BACKGROUND: Observational studies of Alcoholics Anonymous' (AA) effectiveness are vulnerable to self-selection bias because individuals choose whether or not to attend AA. The present study, therefore, employed an innovative statistical technique to derive a selection bias-free estimate of AA's impact. METHODS: Six data sets from 5 National Institutes of Health-funded randomized trials (1 with 2 independent parallel arms) of AA facilitation interventions were analyzed using instrumental variables models. Alcohol-dependent individuals in one of the data sets (n = 774) were analyzed separately from the rest of sample (n = 1,582 individuals pooled from 5 data sets) because of heterogeneity in sample parameters. Randomization itself was used as the instrumental variable. RESULTS: Randomization was a good instrument in both samples, effectively predicting increased AA attendance that could not be attributed to self-selection. In 5 of the 6 data sets, which were pooled for analysis, increased AA attendance that was attributable to randomization (i.e., free of self-selection bias) was effective at increasing days of abstinence at 3-month (B = 0.38, p = 0.001) and 15-month (B = 0.42, p = 0.04) follow-up. However, in the remaining data set, in which preexisting AA attendance was much higher, further increases in AA involvement caused by the randomly assigned facilitation intervention did not affect drinking outcome. CONCLUSIONS: For most individuals seeking help for alcohol problems, increasing AA attendance leads to short- and long-term decreases in alcohol consumption that cannot be attributed to self-selection. However, for populations with high preexisting AA involvement, further increases in AA attendance may have little impact. Language: en
ESPN—The Women's Sports Network? A Content Analysis of Internet Coverage of March Madness

The primary purpose of this exploratory study was to determine if gender-specific descriptors regularly found in television and newspaper sport coverage were present in two popular online sites from the emerging medium of Internet sport journalism. Descriptors given to players and coaches during the 2006 NCAA Division I women's and men's basketball tournaments by ESPN Internet and CBS SportsLine were examined. Results contradicted gender-specific descriptors found in previous studies on sport media coverage that scholars have argued help uphold hegemonic masculinity in sport.
Pulmonary embolism diagnosis in hospitalized and intensive care unit patients

The diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) remains difficult, and diagnostic strategies must consider the unique challenges of hospitalized and critically ill patients. Diagnostic algorithms that are effective and safe for outpatients may not be effective and safe for inpatients or patients in intensive care units. For example, serial compression ultrasonography (US) of the lower extremities may allow physicians to avoid pulmonary angiography for stable inpatients or outpatients, but this strategy is not validated for patients who require intensive care for serious underlying cardiopulmonary disease. Helical computed tomography (CT) is particularly suited for the evaluation of suspected PE for inpatients with serious cardiopulmonary disease. However, the safety of withholding treatment when a helical CT pulmonary angiogram is negative remains to be demonstrated. Lung perfusion and ventilation scans combined with an assessment of pretest probability remain important objective tests for the evaluation of many hospitalized patients.
Individual differences and workload effects on strategy adoption in a dynamic task

The current study investigated the effects of individual differences and workload on strategy adaptivity in a complex, dynamic task called the Space Fortress game (Donchin, 1989). Participants learned to use a strategy of flying a ship in circles around the fortress in a standard game environment. Once they mastered the strategy, they were assigned to different workload conditions and transferred to a nonstandard environment in which a strong wind was introduced that made it more difficult to achieve a circular orbit. About half of the participants continued with their prior circular strategy while the rest adopted a novel strategy that achieved comparable performance with less effort. With this novel strategy, rather than trying to complete orbits they flew into the wind and then allowed the wind to blow them back to achieve a pendulum-like path. Participants without a working-memory load were more likely to adopt the new strategy. Participants were also more likely to adopt the new strategy if their pattern of behavior exposed them more often to the potential of drifting with the wind. The results indicate that spontaneous changes in strategy occur when people are exposed to the potential of a new strategy and have the cognitive resources to understand its potential.
Identification of FMR2, a novel gene associated with the FRAXE CCG repeat and CpG island.

Five folate-sensitive fragile sites have been identi-fied at the molecular level to date1–8. Each is characterized by an expanded and methylated trinucleotide repeat of CGG (CCG). Of the three X chromosome sites, FRAXA, FRAXE and FRAXF, the former two are associated with mental retar-dation in their expanded forms. FRAXA expansion results in fragile X syndrome due to down regula-tion of expression of the FMR1 gene, which carries the hypermutable CGG repeat in the 5′ untranslated portion of its first exon9,10. Mild mental retardation without ponsistent physical findings has been found associated with expanded CCG repeats at FRAXE11–13. We have identified a large gene (FMR2) transcribed distally from the CpG island at FRAXE, and down-regulated by repeat expansion and methylation. The gene is novel, expressed in adult brain and placenta, and shows similarity with another human protein, MLLT2, expressed from a gene at chromosome 4q21 involved in translocations found in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) cells14,15. Identifi-cation of this gene will facilitate further studies to determine the role of its product in FRAXE associated mental deficiency.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients and other Severely Immunocompromised Patients

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a single stranded RNA virus, causes yearly seasonal epidemics of upper and lower respiratory infections affecting, to various degrees, all age groups. In North America and Europe, these epidemics generally start in late October-early November, peak at the end of December through February, and then gradually fade away in the spring. It is well known that during these yearly epidemics RSV is the leading lower respiratory infection of children. By the time a child reaches 24 months of age, the chance of his or her having been infected with RSV is >95% [1]. Although less common than in children, RSV is also a pathogen of adults. Outbreaks in nursing homes have been well documented, with pneumonia developing in ∼66% of patients [2]. Other groups of patients are at increased risk of severe RSV infections: those with underlying chronic lung diseases, congenital heart disease, prematurity, or those who are severely immunocompromised. RSV also is an increasingly well recognized a...
GENERALIZATION OF MOTOR ADAPTATION TO REPEATED-SLIP PERTURBATION ACROSS TASKS

Abstract Similar adaptations improve both proactive and reactive control of center-of-mass (COM) stability and limb support against gravity during different daily tasks (e.g., sit-to-stand and walking) as a consequence of perturbation training for resisting falls. Yet it is unclear whether—or to what extent—such similarities actually promote inter-task generalization. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine whether young adults could indeed transfer their adaptive control, acquired from sit-to-stand-slip, to improve their likelihood of a recovery from an unannounced novel slip in walking. Subjects underwent either repeated slips during sit-to-stand before experiencing an unannounced, novel slip during walking (training group, n =20), or they received no prior training before the same gait-slip (control group, n =23). The subjects demonstrated training-induced generalization of their improved proactive control of stability in post-training (unperturbed) gait pattern that was more stable against backward balance loss than was that of their own pre-training pattern as well the gait pattern of the subjects in the control group. Upon the unannounced novel gait-slip, the training group showed significantly lower incidence of both falls and balance loss than that shown by the control, resulting from the improvements in the reactive control of limb support and slip velocity, which directly influenced the control of their COM stability. Such transfer could occur when the subjects' central nervous system recalibrates the non-task-specific, generalized representation of stability limits during the initial training to guide both their feed-forward adjustments and their feedback responses. The findings of the inter-task generalization suggests that behavioral changes induced via the perturbation training paradigm have the potential to prevent falls across the spectrum of cyclic and non-cyclic activities.
Co‐operation or capture? The paradox of co‐management and community participation in natural resource management and environmental policy‐making

This article examines the conditions under which community‐based management or co‐management is likely to result in either (i) successful collaboration between a state agency and a local community or (ii) ‘capture’ of a public agency by private or special interests. The article focuses on the role of state agencies in the creation and maintainance of successful co‐management regimes and discusses how state agencies can facilitate the creation of social trust while retaining independence and a concern for broader public interests. The author argues that a combination of bureaucratic autonomy and an effective, independent judiciary is an important institutional component for success. The argument is illustrated with the case of a co‐management regime for salmon fisheries in the US Pacific Northwest.
Light-Promoted Addition of Alkenes, Dienes, C60, and Disulfur to the Disulfido Ligand in the Complex CpMoMn(CO)5(μ-S2)

The alkenes, cis-butene, C 1 2 H 8 (acenaphthylene), and dienes, 1,3-butadiene and cyclopentadiene, were found to add to the mixed-metal disulfido complex CpMoMn(CO) 5 (μ-S 2 ), 1, in the presence of irradiation by visible light to yield the new compounds CpMoMn(CO) 5 [μ-S 2 CH(CH 3 )CH(CH 3 )], 2, CpMoMn(CO) 5 (μ-S 2 C 1 2 H 8 ), 3, CpMoMn(CO) 5 [μ-S 2 CH 2 CH(CH=CH 2 )], 4, and CpMoMn(CO) 5 (μ-S 2 C 5 H 6 ), 5, by 1,2-insertion of a C-C double bond into the S-S bond of 1. The cis-butene was inserted into the S-S bond with retention of stereochemistry. The reaction of 1 with C 6 0 yielded the complex CpMoMn(CO) 5 (μ-S 2 C 6 0 ), 6, in the presence of room light. A crystallographic study of 6 showed that the C 6 0 was inserted into the S-S bond at one of its 6,6 ring junctions. The reaction of 1 with elemental sulfur yielded the tetrasulfido complex CpMoMn(CO) 5 (μ-S 4 ), 7, by addition of an S2 group to the disulfido ligand. All new complexes were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis.
Reevaluations of disk diffusion susceptibility testing interpretive criteria for lomefloxacin and norfloxacin using fluoroquinolone-resistant isolates

Abstract The current National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards interpretive criteria for disk diffusion susceptibility testing of lomefloxacin and norfloxacin were reevaluated using a test panel of 298 bacteria (200 with ciprofloxacin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) at ⩾4 μg/ml). MICs were correlated with the diameter of zones of inhibition by regression statistics and error-rate bounding methods. Modifications of the interpretive criteria for lomefloxacin disk susceptibility testing are proposed as follows: susceptible at ⩾20 mm and resistant at ⩽16 mm, a 2-mm decrease of existing break-point zones. These criteria result in an absolute interpretive agreement of 95.3% with a very major (false susceptible) error rate of only 0.7%. The currently used criteria for norfloxacin (susceptible at ⩾16 mm and resistant at ⩽13 mm) were validated, and these break-points had an absolute interpretive correlation between methods of 91.9%. The change proposed for lomefloxacin disk interpretations would minimize minor and major errors most often reported for Staphylococcus saprophyticus isolates.
Gyro Misalignment and Encoder Quantization Effects During Multi-Axis Evaluation of Strapdown Gyros

This paper presents a quantitative discussion of two error sources which affect the accuracy of data comparison between instrument outputs and reference angle computations during multi-axis evaluation of strapdown gyros. The error due to misalignment of gyro input axes is formulated in terms of closed-form solutions for typical relationships between the three table gimbal rotation histories. If the angular positions of the table gimbal axes are measured by shaft encoders, then any measurement has an uncertainty in the range from plus to minus one-half of the quantization level. It is shown that the effect of encoder quantization error on the computer transformed angles in the bodyfixed coordinate system can be divided into two parts: the initial uncertainty of the zero positions of the gimbals before table motion is begun, and all subsequent error contributions during table test. Typical data for gyro misalignment and encoder quantization error effects are presented.
Aids for driving lithography hard: wafer-level process control features

This paper investigates the design of targets for in-line lithography process control. The need for wafer-level understanding and control of defocus has driven the development of several of methods for detecting focus shifts. The methods are typically based on measurements of line-end shortening and use optical methods. This work starts a dual-tone pair of arrays, one built from resist lines and the other from resist troughs. These process control targets area also known as schnitzls. The influence of the shape of the individual lines, the line pitch and separation of arrays are investigated using both simulations and wafer resist CDSEM measurements. A theoretical model was applied to all data to enable objective comparison of different designs. A guide to dose and defocus target design for process window monitoring is provided as part of the summary.
Nutrition Marketing on Food Labels

Abstract Objective This research sought to determine how often nutrition marketing is used on labels of foods that are high in saturated fat, sodium, and/or sugar. Design and Setting All items packaged with food labels (N = 56,900) in all 6 grocery stores in Grand Forks, ND were surveyed. Main Outcome Measure(s) Marketing strategy, nutrient label information, if the product was fruit/or milk based, and target age. Analysis Frequency distributions were computed. Results Forty-nine percent of all products contained nutrition marketing and of those, 48% had both nutrition marketing and were high in saturated fat, sodium and/or sugar (11%, 17%, and 31% respectively). Seventy-one percent of products marketed to children had nutrition marketing. Of those, 59% were high in saturated fat, sodium and/or sugar content, with more than half being high in sugar. The most commonly used nutrition marketing statements were "good source of calcium", "reduced/low/fat free", and "food company's health symbol". Conclusions and Implications Nutrition marketing is commonly used on products high in saturated fat, sodium and/or sugar and is more often used on products marketed toward children than products marketed toward adults. Current food industry symbols may not be helping consumers select foods low in saturated fat, sodium or sugar.
Corticomotor excitability during observation and imagination of a work of art

We examine the effects of the artistic representation – here exemplifed by Michelangelo’s Expulsion from Paradise -- of an action on the motor system. Using single and paired- pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) we analyze corticomotor excitability during observation of an action in the painting, during imagery of the painting, and during observation of a photograph of the same pose. We also analyze the effects of observation of two further paintings, one showing the same muscles at rest, and in the other in a more overtly emotional context. Both observation of the Expulsion and of imagery of the painting increased cortical excitability. Neither the relaxed pose of Michelangelo’s Creation nor the flexed posture in the highly emotional context of Bellini’s Dead Christ increased cortical excitability. Observation of a photograph of the same extended pose did not increase cortical excitability either. Moreover, intracortical inhibition was reduced during imagery of the painting. Our results offer clear motor correlates of the relationship between the esthetic quality of a work and the perception of implied movement within it.
Econometric analyses of electoral behavior: A critical review

This paper reviews the major econometric analyses of electoral behavior in the United States. After a discussion of the early works in this area, analysis focuses on the recent debate precipitated by Kramer's 1971 work. The most important econometric works are summarized so that political scientists not working in this area but still interested in understanding the economic influences on voting can become acquainted with the substantive conclusions of each work and learn something of the different variables and methodologies employed in the analysis. For scholars engaged in research in this field, the paper will serve as a useful summary of previous works. The conclusion discusses major points of controversy and suggests specific research questions toward which future work should be directed.
Incidence of operative endoscopy findings in recurrent croup.

Objective. Develop an evidence-based model for predicting operative endoscopy findings in patients with recurrent croup.Study Design. Case series with chart review.Setting. Tertiary care children’s hospital.Subjects and Methods. Retrospective chart review was performed on 124 patients who received consultation for recurrent croup between 2000 and 2009. Direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy findings were categorized as normal, mildly abnormal (incidental findings or grade I subglottic stenosis), moderately abnormal (grade II subglottic stenosis), or severely abnormal (grade III-IV subglottic stenosis).Results. Of 124 consultations for recurrent croup, 81 patients (average age 3.5 years) underwent operative endoscopy. Normal examinations occurred in 33 of 81 (41%). Abnormal findings were encountered with the following frequency: mildly abnormal, 40 of 81 (49%); moderately abnormal, 6 of 81 (7.5%); and severely abnormal, 2 of 81 (2.5%). Relative risk (RR) of either moderately abnormal or severely abnormal fin...
Understory Cover Responses to Piñon–Juniper Treatments Across Tree Dominance Gradients in the Great Basin

Abstract Pinon ( Pinus spp.) and juniper ( Juniperus spp.) trees are reduced to restore native vegetation and avoid severe fires where they have expanded into sagebrush ( Artemisia tridentata Nutt.) communities. However, what phase of tree infilling should treatments target to retain desirable understory cover and avoid weed dominance? Prescribed fire and tree felling were applied to 8–20-ha treatment plots at 11 sites across the Great Basin with a tree-shredding treatment also applied to four Utah sites. Treatments were applied across a tree infilling gradient as quantified by a covariate tree dominance index (TDI = tree cover/ltree + shrub + tall perennial grass cover]). Mixed model analysis of covariance indicated that treatment × covariate interactions were significant ( P s 0.05) for most vegetation functional groups 3 yr after treatment. Shrub cover was most reduced with fire at any TDI or by mechanical treatment after infilling resulted in over 50% shrub cover loss (TDI s 0.4). Fire increased cheatgrass ( Bromus tectorum L.) cover by an average of 4.2% for all values of TDI. Cutting or shredding trees generally produced similar responses and increased total perennial herbaceous and cheatgrass cover by an average of 10.2% and 3.8%, at TDIs ≥ 0.35 and ≥ 0.45. Cheatgrass cover estimated across the region was s 6% after treatment, but two warmer sites had high cheatgrass cover before (19.2% and 27.2%) and after tree reduction (26.6% and 50.4%). Fuel control treatments are viable management options for increasing understory cover across a range of sites and tree cover gradients, but should be accompanied by revegetation on warmer sites with depleted understories where cheatgrass is highly adapted. Shrub and perennial herbaceous cover can be maintained by mechanically treating at lower TDI. Perennial herbaceous cover is key for avoiding biotic and abiotic thresholds in this system through resisting weed dominance and erosion.
It Is More Than Payment Accountability: It Is About Improvement, Too

Using a large data set, Lucas et al 1 studied the importance of appropriate risk adjustment when applying performance measures in payment and accountability programs. Despite limited variation in readmissions for colorectal cancer, a readmission rate of 12.3% should encourage all of us to strive to get below 10%. It is about improvement and accountability in payment and public reporting. The hierarchical logistic regression model used found variations in age, race, procedure, and comorbidities. Risk-adjusted readmission odds ratios revealed risks shared by all hospitals in these specific groups of variables. They also point to areas in need of focused improvements. The authors shed light on the concerns of raw data for readmissions, an approach that lends itself to misclassification of delivery systems and misguiding patients with the information if the analytics do not properly use risk adjustment and CIs. Lucas et al 1 emphasize the importance of hierarchical regression in thoughtful design of analytics to ensure “apples to apples” comparisons. The authors note that results from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) hierarchical model have inconsistencies in applying the results to payment programs when compared with the CMS public reporting programs. It seems that payment programs act without regard to CIs, whereas the CMS public reporting programs are respectful of their statistical effect. I take exception to the authors when they suggest a surgeon- and specialty-specific risk-adjusted readmission rate as a solution. Surgical practice profiles vary greatly even within general surgery, such as in the subspecialties of breast, bariatrics, trauma, hepatopancreaticobiliary, transplantation, pediatrics, and so forth. Patients need condition-, disease-, and procedure-specific information tailored to their informed decision needs. Focusing on the specific procedure with “fit for purpose” performance measures will drive health care closer to sensible accountability and will best propel improvement efforts.
Sexually transmitted diseases in homosexual adolescents

In 1986, an estimated 13 million cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) were diagnosed in the United States, with the highest incidence rates occurring within the adolescent age group. Homosexual adolescent men are at particularly high risk for STDs. Because of the myriad clinical presentations of STD in gay men, these diseases are often not recognized as being sexually transmitted. In this paper, the epidemiology and clinical features of STDs in gay adolescents are discussed. The sexual history is emphasized as an integral tool in developing a differential diagnosis. A priori, the sexual history also can give a risk-assessment profile for STD. Clinical aspects of STD are reviewed using a syndrome approach, and the diagnostic workup is outlined for the etiologic agents most likely implicated in each syndrome. Clinical signs and symptoms of urethritis, genital ulcers and papular lesions, pharyngitis, and hepatitis are reviewed. Sexually acquired gastrointestinal disorders are described. As the AIDS epidemic continues, disease prevention, risk reduction, and patient education are becoming more important. Current recommendations for "safer sex" practices are reviewed.
Modular matrix computations on multi-linear VLSI arrays

Abstract This paper describes the synthesis of modularly extensible matrix algorithms on multi-linear VLSI arrays with application to rectangular matrix multiplication. Multi-linear arrays differ from two-dimensional (2D) arrays in that one of the dimensions in the arrays is independent of the size of the problem and depends only on the I/O bandwidth of the host computer. They feature bounded clock skew (unlike 2D arrays) and higher throughput and communication bandwidth than linear arrays. A significant feature of the algorithms discussed in this paper is that they exhibit an interdependence between the number of processing elements (PEs) per row in the multi-linear array, the storage inside each PE, and the size of the problem. This interrelationship permits changes in one of these measures to be accommodated by altering one or more of the other measures. One particular benefit of this feature is that it enables the design of modularly extensible algorithms which can accommodate changes in the problem size by only changing the number of PEs per row in the array. Therefore, for a given host I/O bandwidth, larger problem sizes can be handled by cascading smaller multi-linear arrays, all of which have the same number of rows and are comprised of PEs with a fixed amount of local storage. A second feature of our algorithms is that their performance is also a function of the number of rows of PEs in the array which is in turn a function of the I/O bandwidth of the host. A third feature of our design is that the algorithms are controlled by tag bits inserted with the data and no control memory is required inside the PEs.
MOLECULAR MARKERS IN OSTEOSARCOMA – A cDNA MICROARRAY AND RT-PCR ANALYSIS

Osteosarcomas account for about 20% of all primary bone neoplasms, and affect predominantly adolescents. Important prognostic factors include the presence or absence of metastases at the time of presentation and tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Biological markers predicting metastases and chemoresistance are not well characterized. cDNA microarray analysis enables one to examine the expression of thousands of genes in tumor samples. We performed cDNA microarray analysis of histologically low and high grade areas in osteosarcomas to identify gene expression patterns which may depict aggressive behavior. Microarray analysis with 1.2 K cancer array revealed many differentially expressed genes (both upregulated and downregulated), in histologically high grade tumor samples as compared with a low grade sample. Selected up and down regulated markers in the high grade sarcomas were tested in a group of high grade osteosarcomnas (OS) with varying responses to chemotherapy. Of the multiple markers analyzed, ezrin, a member of the ERM family of membrane-cytoskeleton linkers showed an expression pattern statistically significant between tumors with good response to chemotherapy compared with tumors with poor response (p = 0.036). We discuss our findings, with current review of literature.
Interaction of the Analgesic Effects of Morphine and Codeine in Rats

IN the experiments described here, the analgesic effects of 5.0 mg/kg of subcutaneous morphine and 60.0 mg/kg of subcutaneous codeine were determined individually at various intervals after the injections. Then, a dose of codeine too low to exert any analgesic effect by itself, when given simultaneously with morphine was demonstrated to increase the intensity and persistence of morphine analgesia. A similar experiment was performed with 60 mg/kg of codeine given with a close of morphine too low to show analgesia.
Popular Trials: Rhetoric, Mass Media, and the Law

Contemporary scholarship illustrates the lawOCOs increasingly powerful role in American life; legal education, in turn, has focused on the problems and techniques of communication.aThis book addresses these interests through critical study of eight popular trials: the 17th-century trial of Dr. Henry Sacheverell, and the 20th-century trials of Scopes, the Rosenbergs, the Chicago Seven, the Catonsville Nine, John Hinckley, Claus von Bulow, and San Diego Mayor Larry Hedgecock.aSuch trials spark major public debates, become symbols of public life, and legitimize particular beliefs and institutions. Despite high visibility and drama, however, the popular trial has not received sufficient study as persuasive event.aLying at the intersection of the institutional practices of law and the mass media, the popular trial has confounded study according to the conventional assumptions of scholarship in both law and communication studies. aaaaaaaaaaa This volume defines popular trials as a genre of public communication, a genre that includes trials unusually prominent within public discourse.aFurther, popular trials are often characterize by special media presentations through televised coverage of the trial itself and news analysis, intense audience identification with the principal actors, and political and social consequences independent of the legal action.aThe essays in this volume stress the rhetorical functions of popular trials.aContributors in addition to the editor include Lawrance M. Bernabo, Barry Brummett, Celeste Michelle Condit, Juliet Dee, Susan J. Drucker, J. Justin Gustainis, Janice Platt Hunold, William Lewis, John Louis Lucaites, and Larry A. Williamson. "
Kaon condensation in the early universe

Abstract It is possible that another QCD phase transition took place in the early universe after the confining and chiral symmetry breaking transition. The second transition is from a kaon condensate phase to the ordinary phase. Remnants of this phase transition may include effects on nucleosynthesis and nuggets of strange baryon matter.
Using time information in μLCR spectroscopy: Older muons are wiser

ForμLCR with slow polarization transfer, the weak resonance signals can be strengthened by delaying the positron observation period, for pulsed and chopped muon beams. Furthermore, the sensitivity to drifts can be reduced or eliminated by using the ratios of late to earlye+ counts. These possibilities for using time information are discussed quantitatively.
Do nocturnal rodents run more efficiently at night

AN animal's activity is perhaps the most obvious physiological parameter influenced by circadian rhythms. Nocturnal animals move about and do their foraging during their hours of darkness. This higher level of activity is also synchronised with a higher basal metabolic rate as well as body temperature1, and may also be reflected in metabolic needs for (the increased) locomotion occurring during the active period. Since the animal is using more energy simply to maintain its basic needs, there may also be a higher energy requirement for moving about. We have examined this, and have found that the increased basal rate persists as the constant difference (at different speeds), between the day and night performances of gerbils.
Effect of mating on Monarch butterfly oogenesis.

Oogenesis ceases in virgin Monarch butterflies at about 10 days posteclosion, but an enhanced production of mature oocytes occurs after mating. Juvenile hormone injections into virgins, and allatectomies of mated females, indicate that the observed fluctuations in oogenesis are due to periods of corpora allata activity and inactivity.
Prenyltransferase of larval and adult M. sexta corpora allata.

Abstract Prenyltransferase activity derived from the corpora allata (CA) of the lepidopteran insect, Manduca sexta , has been characterized. The coupling of allylic substrates DMAPP and GPP with the non-allylic substrate IPP was evaluated using CA homogenates of both the larval and adult stages of development. The effect of additives and inhibitors, assay conditions, and metal preference were examined. The cellular location of prenyltransferase activity was also investigated. We found subtle differences between larval and adult preparations, including metal and detergent preference, and while larval prenyltransferase activity was strictly cytosolic, prenyltransferase derived from adult CA was found in both the cytosolic and pellet fractions. Differences in kinetics as a function of development were also noted. When GPP was utilized as allylic substrate, adult prenyltransferase displayed cooperative behavior; while with DMAPP, biphasic kinetics were observed. In fifth instar larvae, prenyltransferase activity was highest on days 1–2 and reaction end products changed as a result of insect age. Taken together, these results suggest that larval and adult prenyltransferase of M. sexta have distinct enzymological properties and that the adult CA possess more than one prenyltransferase.
Roadmaps show the way: Coregistration to enhance structural heart interventions

X-ray fluoroscopy is versatile but produces only 2-dimensional (2D) projections with limited soft-tissue detail. Several groups have augmented conventional 2D fluoroscopy with overlaid three-dimensional (3D) roadmaps. The goals are to reduce procedure time, radiation and contrast exposure, and to improve procedural success. While it makes intuitive sense that 3D roadmaps are valuable, unequivocal clinical benefit has yet to be proven. It is conceivable that the preparation of such roadmaps could actually result in increased radiation or contrast dose, or in some cases they could even be misleading and misguide an operator to cause an undesirable outcome.
Three-Dimensional Steady Vapor Bubbles in Rectangular Microchannels

Abstract We develop a mathematical model of a long steady vapor bubble in a channel of rectangular cross section with given temperature distributions on the walls of the channel. Evaporation near the heated bottom of the channel is balanced by condensation in colder areas of the vapor–liquid interface near the top. An asymptotic method is developed in the limit when the shape of the bubble is dominated by capillary forces everywhere except near the walls. A lubrication-type analysis is used to find local vapor–liquid interface shapes and mass fluxes near the walls. Contact lines are present at the bottom and side walls and are modeled through a disjoining pressure. The total length of the bubble is determined from the integral mass balance after all local solutions are found and characterized. The length increases as the average heater temperature becomes higher as expected. The length of the bubble is also studied as a function of the material properties for fixed temperature distribution at the heated bottom. It is shown that longer bubbles can be obtained when kinetic effects at the vapor–liquid interface are less significant or when the side-walls conduct heat better.
Resonant strength of a vibrating member having two degrees of freedom, with hysteresis damping

Abstract Vibrating members frequently undergo resonance during their useful life. For the durability of members it is very necessary to limit the large induced stresses at resonance to the fatigue strength of the material. Amplification in induced stresses at resonance depends on the inherent damping present in the vibrating system. Different types of damping are known to exist in a vibrating system. This paper considers only material damping. The specific problem considered in this investigation is of a shaft fixed at one end and free at the other, with a pulley and subjected to a fluctuating load. The fluctuating load induces combined fluctuating stresses which become critical when resonance takes place in either of the co-ordinates of the vibrating system. A fatigue-strength damping criterion has been developed for this problem which makes it possible to evaluate the resonant load from the distortion theory for fatigue under combined stresses and the material-damping characteristics of the material. A numerical example is worked out to show how this method could be applied to a practical problem. Curves are drawn for various materials showing the variation of resonant load with natural frequency ratios.
The Significance of the Emergence of Language and Symbol in the Development of the Young Infant

In this paper I have suggested that the mother–child dyad is the foundation for integrity between the psychic self and the physical self, and the capacity of these to relate to the external environment. I have also argued that the development of language and symbol are creative agents in the development of consciousness in the young infant, and that the emergence of language and symbol are an expression of the opening of a potential space which allows differentiation from the mother and facilitates the infant’s ability to distinguish fantasy from fact and self from other.
Pixel Level Analog to Digital Converter

A semi custom design flow was used to implement and fabricate an analog circuit. The pixel level detector circuit was designed on a sea-of-gates called an analog-leaf-cell. Cadence Tools was used to design the schematic, layout, and simulate the analog circuit. Once the layout and schematic has been verified (LVS) on Cadence tools, a post extraction simulation is observed. When all specifications have been reached, the circuit design is ready to be fabricated and is sent out to MOSIS. Eight weeks later, the integrated circuit is fabricated and packaged into an IC chip and returned to students to be tested.
In situ detection of transposition of the maize controlling element (Ac) in transgenic soybean tissues.

The development of a transposon mutagenesis system in soybean would aid in the isolation of unknown genes. The maize controlling element (Ac) has, therefore, been introduced into the soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) genome byAgrobacterium-mediated transformation.Ac was inserted into the untranslated leader region of the bacterial s-glucuronidase gene (GUS) such that the excision ofAc resulted in restoration of the GUS gene activity. Excision events of theAc element were monitored by detecting blue cells or sectors in transgenic soybean tissues. Using the GUS gene assay and with hybridization data, we have demonstrated that theAc element transposes in transgenic soybean calli, leaves, stems, and roots.