cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Empowering Clinician Education With Patient-outcome Feedback

Emergency physicians (EPs) often lack the information they need about their patients' outcomes so that they can both optimally adjust and refine their diagnostic and treatment processes and recognize their clinical errors. Patient-outcome feedback (POF) provides that information by informing clinicians about a patient's clinical course after that clinician's evaluation and treatment. This feedback may encompass the period after the EP has transferred a patient's care to another EP or after the patient has left the ED or hospital. EPs obtain POF through various active and passive methods, depending on their institutional and medical record systems. Active methods require that clinicians or others spend time and effort acquiring the information; passive methods deliver it automatically. POF is an excellent performance-based measurement that helps clinicians to stimulate their learning and to build their own validated mental library of outcomes with which to make clinical decisions, i.e., heuristics and System 1 thinking. POF offers especially useful feedback about patients who have been admitted, were referred to specialists, had major interventions, had potentially significant tests pending on discharge, or were handed off to another EP. The current health care system makes it difficult for EPs to discover their patients' outcomes, squandering significant educational opportunities. Three stimuli to improve this situation would be to require EPs to receive passive POF as part of hospital accreditation, for reviewing POF to be classified as a Category 1 Continuing Medical Education activity, and to reimburse clinicians for learning activities related to POF. Research indicates that our health care institutions and systems would be well served to provide clinicians with ongoing automatic information about their patients' outcomes.
General Complications after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Smokers: A 2005-2016 NSQIP Analysis.

Background:Exposure to cigarette smoke has been associated with a higher incidence of postoperative complications across a variety of surgical specialties. However, it is unclear if smoking increas...
Exploring Afrocentricity: An Analysis of the Discourse of Oprah Winfrey:

Oprah Winfrey is a world recognizable icon, having achieved success in many different arenas. Her ongoing accomplishments have global influence, and she is known for consistently using her powerful...
Biofluorescence in the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

The occurrence of biofluorescence across Mammalia is an area of active study. We examined three specimens of the platypus ( Ornithorhynchus anatinus ) from Tasmania and New South Wales, Australia, housed in the Field Museum of Natural History (Chicago, Illinois, USA) and the University of Nebraska State Museum (Lincoln, Nebraska, USA) under visible light and ultraviolet (UV) light. The pelage of the animals appeared uniformly brown under visible light and green or cyan under UV light, due to fluoresced wavelengths that peaked around 500 nm. Our observations are the first report of biofluorescence in a monotreme mammal.
Strong Temperature Effect on the Ferroelectric Properties of CuInP2S6 and Its Heterostructures

Van der Waals (vdW) ferroelectric insulator CuInP2S6 (CIPS) has attracted intense research interest due to its unique ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties. In this paper, we systematically investigate the temperature and frequency dependence of the ferroelectric properties of CIPS. We find that there is a large imprint in the CIPS capacitor, which can be attributed to the fixed dipoles induced by defects. At high temperatures and low frequencies, the amplitude and direction of the imprint become tunable by the preset pulse, as the copper ions are more mobile and these dipoles become switchable. When the polarization in CIPS changes direction, the graphene/CIPS/graphene ferroelectric diode exhibits switchable resistance since the Fermi level in graphene is modulated by the polarization in CIPS. For CIPS/MoTe2 dual-gate transistor, a temperature-dependent nonvolatile memory window is observed, which can be attributed to the interplay between ferroelectric polarization and interface traps. This research provides experimental groundwork for vdW ferroelectric materials, expands the understanding of ferroelectricity in CIPS, and opens up exciting opportunities for novel electronic devices based on vdW ferroelectric materials.
Assessment of time spent in the LEO, GEO, and semi-synchronous zones by spacecraft on long-term reentering disposal orbits

Abstract The U.S. Government Orbital Debris Mitigation Standard Practices (ODMSP) released in December 2019 include a disposal option to use orbital eccentricity growth for long-term reentry within 200 years. Long-term reentry is beneficial for orbital debris mitigation because it offers a large reduction in long-term collision risk in the regions above low Earth orbit (LEO) compared to use of storage disposal orbits. As a condition for use of this option, the ODMSP specifies a 25-year limit on cumulative time a disposed spacecraft can spend in designated altitude zones that are frequently used by operational spacecraft. An analysis was performed to determine the time spent by disposed spacecraft in the geosynchronous (GEO) zone, the LEO zone, and the semi-synchronous zone for three classes of reentering disposal orbits above LEO: (1) near-circular inclined geosynchronous orbits (IGSOs), (2) eccentric IGSOs (Tundra orbits), and (3) GPS orbits. Long-term disposal orbit propagations over 200-years were performed using the Aerospace high-precision integration code TRACE. Collision probability with operational satellites in the various zones is determined using the Aerospace Debris Environment Projection Tool suite in order to check the trend with time in zone. Results of the study showed that time in zones is less than 25 years when orbital lifetime is less than 200 years, thereby clearing the way for using the new long-term re-entry option relative to this condition. The absolute numerical value of collision probability with operational satellites was found to vary substantially with disposal orbit case and zone. For most cases, results show a clear trend between time in zone and collision probability with some spread. An exception is the GEO zone, for which results show a trend but a wide spread. This may be because most GEO satellites are confined to a ring instead of the shell represented by an altitude zone.
FIVEx: an interactive eQTL browser across public datasets.

SUMMARY Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) characterize the associations between genetic variation and gene expression to provide insights into tissue-specific gene regulation. Interactive visualization of tissue-specific eQTLs or splice QTLs (sQTLs) can facilitate our understanding of functional variants relevant to disease-related traits. However, combining the multi-dimensional nature of eQTLs/sQTLs into a concise and informative visualization is challenging. Existing QTL visualization tools provide useful ways to summarize the unprecedented scale of transcriptomic data but are not necessarily tailored to answer questions about the functional interpretations of trait-associated variants or other variants of interest. We developed FIVEx, an interactive eQTL/sQTL browser with an intuitive interface tailored to the functional interpretation of associated variants. It features the ability to navigate seamlessly between different data views while providing relevant tissue- and locus-specific information to offer users a better understanding of population-scale multi-tissue transcriptomic profiles. Our implementation of the FIVEx browser on the EBI eQTL catalogue, encompassing 16 publicly available RNA-seq studies, provides important insights for understanding potential tissue-specific regulatory mechanisms underlying trait-associated signals. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION A FIVEx instance visualizing EBI eQTL catalogue data can be found at https://fivex.sph.umich.edu. Its source code is open source under an MIT license at https://github.com/statgen/fivex. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Fabrication of hierarchically structured superhydrophobic PDMS surfaces by Cu and CuO casting

Abstract Poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) films decorated with hierarchically structured pillars are cast from large area copper and copper oxide negative molds. The molds are fabricated using a single patterning step and electroplating. The process of casting structured PDMS films is simpler and cheaper than alternatives based on deep reactive ion etching or laser roughening of bulk silicone. Texture imparted to the pillars from the mold walls renders the PDMS films superhydrophobic, with the contact angle/hysteresis of the most non-wetting surfaces measuring 164°/9° and 158°/10° for surfaces with and without application of a low surface energy coating. The usefulness of patterned PDMS films as a “self-cleaning” solar cell module covering is demonstrated and other applications are discussed.
Metric variation in the human occipital bone: forensic anthropological applications.

Sex and race variation of the occipital bone have been previously investigated, but particular examination of the effect of age and ancestry on sexual dimorphism has not been addressed. This paper examines morphological variation associated with sex and ancestry in the condylar region of the occipital bone and the effect of age and ancestry on the estimation of sex. Models previously published by Holland (1,2) are also tested, and methodological problems are addressed. The results indicate that age does not have an effect on sexual dimorphism, but that whites exhibit greater, although not significantly, more sexual dimorphism than blacks. Significant sex and ancestry variation is present in the condylar region of the occipital bone, but neither sex nor ancestry could be estimated accurately using measurements of this anatomical region defined by Holland (1,2).
Using purchase influence niching for better focus in industrial marketing plans

Abstract Drawing on applications with over 100 industrial product companies over the past twenty years, this article suggests that defining product market niches too broadly is a pervasive problem deterring most industrial product firms from developing more transparent and more effective marketing plans. Using numerous examples, a method is proposed for resolving this problem by supplementing traditional niching efforts with “Purchase Influence Niching.” A more narrow, purchase influence-based delineation of target niches reduces the number and the complexities of the strategic interrelationships considered when evaluating alternative opportunities, thus paving the way for the logical and transparent development and communication of more effective marketing plans and strategies. Through examples of previous applications, this article shows how to overlay current niching efforts with purchase influence niching and discusses how to both meet the challenges and reap the significant benefits of this approach.
An efficient auxiliary variable method for quantification of spin density, R ∗ 2 decay and field inhomogeneity maps in magnetic resonance imaging

Quantification of spin density, R∗ 2 decay and off-resonance frequency maps is very important in some applications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To reconstruct these parameter maps, a time-varying model such as mono-exponentials must be used to represent the signal from each voxel. When only a single-shot trajectory is adopted, the underlying reconstruction problem is significantly nonlinear and therefore requires an iterative algorithm. The regularized trust region method previously proposed to address this problem is stable but lacks speed. In this paper, we propose a novel auxiliary variable method that is very efficient in solving the underlying optimization problem. This method introduces an auxiliary variable in the spatial-temporal domain that separates the data fidelity term and the structure fidelity term. The algorithm then alternately optimizes the data fidelity and the structure fidelity to reach the solution. The data fidelity optimization has a closed-form solution and can be solved very efficiently. The structure fidelity optimization fits the exponential model with the auxiliary variable and can also be rapidly computed. Some preliminary comparisons between the auxiliary variable method and the trust region method show that the new method is 10 times faster than the trust region method at a reasonable reconstruction precision.
Usability challenges in designing foreign language keypads for handheld devices

This paper discusses the importance of language and culture in the effective design and widespread acceptance of handheld devices in foreign markets. To this end, key challenges that usability experts and interaction designers face while designing foreign language keypads for handheld devices are discussed and analyzed. The discussion presupposes English as the point of reference for design decisions but focuses on the challenges faced when considering foreign language devices. For the context of this paper, Arabic is cited as the 'foreign' language in the design of BlackBerry devices.
Rate Equation Approach for Growing Networks

The rate equations are applied to investigate the structure of growing networks. Within this framework, the degree distribution of a network in which nodes are introduced sequentially and attach to an earlier node of degree k with rate A k ˜kγ is computed. Very different behaviors arise for γ 1. The rate equation approach is extended to determine the joint order-degree distribution, the degree correlations of neighboring nodes, as well as basic global properties. The complete solution for the degree distribution of a finite-size network is outlined. Some unusual properties associated with the most popular node are discussed; these follow simply from the order-degree distribution. Finally, a toy protein interaction network model is investigated, where the network grows by the processes of node duplication and particular form of random mutations. This system exhibits an infinite-order percolation transition, giant sample-specific fluctuations, and a non-universal degree distribution.
An emerging role for prdm family genes in dorsoventral patterning of the vertebrate nervous system

The embryonic vertebrate neural tube is divided along its dorsoventral (DV) axis into eleven molecularly discrete progenitor domains. Each of these domains gives rise to distinct neuronal cell types; the ventral-most six domains contribute to motor circuits, while the five dorsal domains contribute to sensory circuits. Following the initial neurogenesis step, these domains also generate glial cell types—either astrocytes or oligodendrocytes. This DV pattern is initiated by two morphogens—Sonic Hedgehog released from notochord and floor plate and Bone Morphogenetic Protein produced in the roof plate—that act in concentration gradients to induce expression of genes along the DV axis. Subsequently, these DV-restricted genes cooperate to define progenitor domains and to control neuronal cell fate specification and differentiation in each domain. Many genes involved in this process have been identified, but significant gaps remain in our understanding of the underlying genetic program. Here we review recent work identifying members of the Prdm gene family as novel regulators of DV patterning in the neural tube. Many Prdm proteins regulate transcription by controlling histone modifications (either via intrinsic histone methyltransferase activity, or by recruiting histone modifying enzymes). Prdm genes are expressed in spatially restricted domains along the DV axis of the neural tube and play important roles in the specification of progenitor domains, as well as in the subsequent differentiation of motor neurons and various types of interneurons. Strikingly, Prdm proteins appear to function by binding to, and modulating the activity of, other transcription factors (particularly bHLH proteins). The identity of key transcription factors in DV patterning of the neural tube has been elucidated previously (e.g. the nkx, bHLH and pax families), but it now appears that an additional family is also required and that it acts in a potentially novel manner.
Changes in the strength of prepulse inhibition with variation in the startle baseline associated with individual differences and with old age in rats and mice

We examined the relationship between variation in the peak level and temporal course of prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reflex (ASR) and between-subject variation in ASR control baselines. Prepulses were light flashes (for young rats, N = 155), silent gaps in noise (young mice, N = 46), or noise pulses in quiet (young, middle aged, and aged mice, N = 20). Differences in the baseline ASR accounted for up to 99% of the variance in difference-score measures of PPI (ASRcontrol — ASRprepulse), but not 10% of the variance in relative measures [1 − (ASRp/ASRc)]. The temporal course of relative PPI did not differ with baseline ASR, nor did peak values of relative PPI in Experiments 2 and 3, but were greater (p <.05) in low than in high ASRc subgroups in Experiment 1. These findings (1) indicate that the neural substrates for ASR elicitation and for PPI are largely independent; (2) reveal that, unlike the ASR, PPI does not decline with age; and (3) suggest the outlines of a formal model for interpreting changes in relative versus difference-score measures of PPI when baseline ASR varies.
Social Bonding and Delinquency: A Comparative Analysis

A multivariate analysis of social bonding theory of delinquency is presented which includes a comparison by rural-urban location. Findings indicate the bonding scales to be a stronger explanation o...
Cyto 2000 – A Collaborative study for the evaluation of blood chromosome mosaicism

The implications of chromosomal mosaicism have plagued cytogenetics laboratories over the past 40 years. Although this is a frequent phenomena in the clinical cytogenetics laboratory and often misunderstood, there has been little work examining this phenomena. In order to understand better the clinical impact of mosaicism we have undertaken a multi-laboratory survey of mosaicism. We have surveyed 29 laboratories in which over 151,000 stimulated peripheral blood specimens have been studied in a 7-9 year period. A total of 2109 mosaic cases have been identified in these laboratories. Evaluation of this data initially revealed that three different methods of establishing mosaicism was implemented in these labs, although 65% of the labs used the definition of 2 or more cells with trisomy or structural rearrangements and 3 or more cells with monosomy for a specific chromosome. Additionally, 65% of the labs believed that only one culture was needed to establish mosaicism. Among the labs, the range of mosaicism varied between 0.38% and 2.97%, with an overall frequency of 1.39%. Results of the types of mosaicism, revealed that sex chromosomal mosaicism was significantly more common than autosomal mosaicism (64% vs 36%). Overall, half of the sex chromosome mosaicism involved 45,X mosaicism; 45,X/numerical mosaicism was most common (30%) and 45,X/structural mosaicism was slightly less common (20%). Among the autosomal mosaicism, the majority either involved trisomy (mostly chromosome 21) or mosaicism of an accessory marker/ring chromosome. It was interesting to note that 9% of the total mosaic specimens (and 25% of the autosomal cases) involved an autosomal structural mosaic. This is a higher frequency than initially expected. This survey encompasses the largest group yet studied to explain and understand mosaicism. Results from these studies show that: (1) laboratories do not use uniform criteria to establish mosaicism, and three different criteria were noted in this study; (2) the overall frequency of mosaicism was approximately 1.39%, but there was significant differences between labs; (3) sex chromosome mosaicism was most commonly detected, with the majority involving a 45,X cell line; and (4) autosomal structural mosaicism was more frequent than expected and may have a greater impact than expected. Additional studies are in progress, specifically examining the minimum number of cells needed to establish mosaicism and the effect of ascertainment on the findings. The accumulation of this data will provide a better understanding of the phenomena of mosaicism.
Hot-carrier-induced degradation in nitrided oxide MOSFETs

Hot-carrier-induced degradation in commercially prepared silicon-gate MOSFETs incorporating ammonia annealed, nitrided oxides as the gate dielectric is examined and compared with the degradation observed in similar devices incorporating conventional oxides. Nitridation at 1100 degrees C for 2 h is observed to reduce the rate of transconductance degradation and threshold voltage increase by nearly half, compared to the oxide for stressing at both low and high gate bias, and to modify the effects of stressing on the substrate current characteristics. In contrast, nitridation at 1150 degrees C produces both improvements and degradations in device stability depending on the parameter examined and the stress conditions. While ammonia annealing introduces nitrogen, it also appears to incorporate excess hydrogen in the dielectrics that alters charge trapping and interface-state generation so that the performance of the dielectric under electrical stress depends on the concentrations of both species. >
Metabolic conversion of 1- and 2-nitronaphthalene to 1- and 2-naphthylamine in the rat.

Metabolic Conversion of l- and 2-Nitronaphthalene to l- and 2-Naphthylamine in the Rat. JOHNSON, D. E., AND CORNISH, H. H. (1978). Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 46, 549-553. l- and 2-Naphthylamine (c[- and /.-naphthylamine) were isolated as urinary metabolites of l- and 2. nitronaphthalene, respectively, in the rat. Isolation and identification were accomplished using preparative thin-layer chromatography and gas-liquid chromatography/mass spectral analysis. The evidence that metabolism of nitronaphthalenes leads to formation of the corresponding amines, one of which @-naphthylamine) is a known carcinogen, suggests that human exposure to this nitro compound should be minimal. It also points out the important role of metabolic studies in the evaluation of potential chemical toxicity and suggests a critical reevaluation of compounds whose metabolism by known pathways could lead to the
Exercise-related longitudinal tibial stress fracture in a young person.

A 22-year-old man presented to the Nuclear Medicine Clinic for evaluation of distal right tibial pain. The patient reported recently beginning a rigorous exercise program involving lower extremity impact temporally related to the onset and worsening of the pain. The physical examination was remarkable for significant tenderness to palpation of the distal one-third of his right tibia. The presumptive diagnosis was a stress fracture. Recent roentgenograms of the right tibia were not available for review but were reportedly normal. Scintigraphy, in combination with computed tomography, revealed an unusual type of stress fracture (particularly in a young person and in relation to exercise)—a longitudinal stress fracture.
Two Groups Control Light-Induced Schiff Base Deprotonation and the Proton Affinity of Asp85 in the Arg82His Mutant of Bacteriorhodopsin

Arg(82) is one of the four buried charged residues in the retinal binding pocket of bacteriorhodopsin (bR). Previous studies show that Arg(82) controls the pK(a)s of Asp(85) and the proton release group and is essential for fast light-induced proton release. To further investigate the role of Arg(82) in light-induced proton pumping, we replaced Arg(82) with histidine and studied the resulting pigment and its photochemical properties. The main pK(a) of the purple-to-blue transition (pK(a) of Asp(85)) is unusually low in R82H: 1.0 versus 2.6 in wild type (WT). At pH 3, the pigment is purple and shows light and dark adaptation, but almost no light-induced Schiff base deprotonation (formation of the M intermediate) is observed. As the pH is increased from 3 to 7 the M yield increases with pK(a) 4.5 to a value approximately 40% of that in the WT. A transition with a similar pK(a) is observed in the pH dependence of the rate constant of dark adaptation, k(da). These data can be explained, assuming that some group deprotonates with pK(a) 4.5, causing an increase in the pK(a) of Asp(85) and thus affecting k(da) and the yield of M. As the pH is increased from 7 to 10.5 there is a further 2.5-fold increase in the yield of M and a decrease in its rise time from 200 ms to 75 ms with pK(a) 9. 4. The chromophore absorption band undergoes a 4-nm red shift with a similar pK(a). We assume that at high pH, the proton release group deprotonates in the unphotolyzed pigment, causing a transformation of the pigment into a red-shifted "alkaline" form which has a faster rate of light-induced Schiff base deprotonation. The pH dependence of proton release shows that coupling between Asp(85) and the proton release group is weakened in R82H. The pK(a) of the proton release group in M is 7.2 (versus 5.8 in the WT). At pH bR transition with tau approximately 45 ms. This transition is slowed in R82H, indicating that Arg(82) is important for the proton transfer from Asp(85) to the proton release group. A model describing the interaction of Asp(85) with two ionizable residues is proposed to describe the pH dependence of light-induced Schiff base deprotonation and proton release.
The question of community attachment revisited

In this paper we compare the relative effects of satisfaction with specific community (neighborhood) attributes and social integration into the community on community attachment. Previous research on community attachment has not assessed the importance of satisfaction with specific attributes as a determinant of attachment. Instead, this research has focussed on integration into the social life of a community as the primary source of community attachment. We find that although social integration has the more important effect on attachment, satisfaction with specific community attributes also has a statistically significant effect. People who are satisfied with the general physical appearance, the noise level, and the quality of neighbors in their communities tend to be more attached to them than those who are less satisfied. We address the theoretical and policy implications of this finding. In short, this finding implies, contrary to previous thought, that it is possible for there to be higher levels of ...
Promoting wellness: Integrating community and positive psychology

Many psychological researchers and practitioners aim to promote the wellness of individuals and communities. Community psychology has a rich theoretical tradition related to building competencies and promoting adaptive functioning. Many of these theories, however, have limited empirical support. Recently, the field of positive psychology has pushed for research investigating three areas related to optimal psychological functioning: positive emotions, positive character traits, and positive institutions. Although this call for research has advanced the study of individual well-being, positive psychology researchers have largely ignored positive institutions. This article aims to tie together the themes and theories of community psychology and positive psychology and highlight how a synthesis of the fields can help better promote community wellness. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Charge Variations in Substituted Alkanes: Evidence for a Through-Space Effect

Ab initio quantum mechanical calculations at the 6-31+G* basis set are reported on over 75 substituted ethanes and higher alkanes. The charges on the carbon and hydrogen atoms of these species are determined by topological- and orbital-based methods. The relative change in charge is used to determine how a substituent group affects atoms remote from it. Arguments are presented to account for the charge on the hydrogen atoms in substituted ethanes and higher alkanes. Fluorine atoms within about 2.7 A of hydrogen atoms cause an increase in positive charge on those hydrogen atoms. Charge is moved to the periphery of the molecule when a charged substituent is present. A model that involves through-space interactions between the charged group and the alkane framework accounts for these data. The charge calculations indicate a substituted carbon atom has a charge that is more dependent on the nature of the atom to which it is attached than on that atom's charge or on other atoms in the substituent. No evidence ...
Burnout, Depression, and Career Satisfaction: Cross-Sectional Study of Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents

Objective This study was undertaken to measure career satisfaction among obstetrics and gynecology residents and assess its relationship to burnout, depression, and malpractice concerns. Study design A 63-item, anonymous, self-administered survey was distributed to residents at 23 randomly selected obstetric and gynecologic residency programs in the United States. The outcome measures included the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey, the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, and perceptions of malpractice and career satisfaction. Results Eighty-three percent of the residents were either "very or somewhat satisfied" with their career choice. The majority (89.8%) showed evidence of moderate burnout and 34.2% were considered depressed. Ninety-six percent were concerned about malpractice with 35% pursuing fellowship solely because of malpractice concerns. Residents dissatisfied with their career choice were twice as likely to be depressed (30% vs 55%, P = .03). Both emotional exhaustion ( P P Conclusion Resident career satisfaction was inversely correlated with burnout and depression, which were more prevalent than expected. Overall, residents were satisfied with their career choice, but also negatively influenced by malpractice concerns.
A system for quantification of frequency specific responses in the EEG during classical conditioning

Abstract Instrumentation for the rapid quantification of frequency-specific responses in the brain over selectable short periods of time has been described, along with the necessary circuitry to program its use in such commonly investigated behavioral situations as conditioned response learning.
Trends in δ18O and δ13C values in lacustrine tufa mounds: Palaeohydrology of Searles Lake, California

Four tufa facies have been identified in abundant tufa mounds that accumulated in Searles Lake, California, USA, during the Pleistocene. Covariance of δ 18 O and δ 13 C values within the tufa facies has been analysed and correlated with palaeo-lake history. This study demonstrates that characteristics of δ 18 O and δ 13 C values are different in each of the tufa facies and can be related to palaeo-lake stages. The first facies of tufa formation (P) has relatively low average δ 18 O and δ 13 C values (δ 18 O = 27& and δ 13 C =+ 12&, n = 14). These low values are attributed to rapid increases in the lake volume. This increase was followed by higher average δ 18 O and δ 13 C values of both the nodular (N) facies (δ 18 O =+ 18& and δ 13 C =+ 41&, n = 24) and the columnar (C) facies (δ 18 O =+ 06& and δ 13 C =+ 40&, n = 7). These higher values are interpreted to record a decrease in lake volume due to high evaporation and increased biogenic productivity. Following formation of facies C, the lake was essentially dry during formation of the finely laminated (LC) facies. Facies LC formed subaerially as spring water flowed up through the central conduit of the mounds and cascaded down their periphery. The relatively high δ 18 Oa ndδ 13 C values for this facies (δ 18 O =+ 14& and δ 13 C =+ 44&, n = 12) are due to evaporation and fast CO2 degassing. Although covariant trends are well-displayed, variations in lake chemistry alter some of these trends due to periods of hyper-alkalinity. This study confirms the utility of stable isotopic analyses of lacustrine tufa facies to determine palaeo-lake history.
Postharvest Ripening of Noni Fruit (Morinda citrifolia) and the Microbial and Chemical Properties of Its Fermented Juice

The physiology of noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruit ripening, as well as the chemical and microbial properties of its fermented juice, were determined. The ripening fruit had a nonclimacteric respiratory pattern (34 mg CO2·kg−1h−1) and no detectable ethylene production. The fungus, Mucor circinelloides, was consistently isolated from fermented juice, with peak populations at 14 d coincident with an increase in headspace CO2 and a decline in pH and soluble solids. Bacterial populations were greatest at 42 d, with Erwinia pyrifoliae and Gluconobacter frateurii isolated from fermented juice. Sugar concentration (64.8 mg·mL−1) decreased by 37% after 7 d, while organic acids (26.6 mg·mL−1) were the highest at 28 d. Major non-volatile acids present in the fermented juice included acetic, ascorbic, dehydroascorbic, galacturonic, malonic, succinic, and tartaric acids.
Visibility, occlusion, and the aspect graph

This chapter studies the ways in which the topology of the image of a polyhedron changes with changing viewpoint. We catalog the ways that the topological appearance, or aspect, can change. This enables us to find maximal regions of viewpoints of the same aspect. We use these techniques to construct the viewpoint space partition (VSP), a partition of viewpoint space into maximal regions of constant aspect, and its dual, the aspect graph. Here, we present tight bounds on the maximum size of the VSP and the aspect graph and give algorithms for their construction, first in the convex case and then in the general case. In particular, we give bounds on the maximum size of θ(n 2) and θ(n 6) under an orthographic projection viewing model and of θ(n 3) and θ(n 9) under a perspective viewing model. The algorithms make use of a new representation of the appearance of polyhedra from all viewpoints, called the aspect representation or asp. We believe that this representation is one of the significant contributions of this paper.
Identification and treatment of chemoresistant inoperable or metastatic GIST: experience with the selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate (STI571)

Abstract Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. The concept of GIST and the definition of GIST pathology have evolved greatly over the past 5 years. GIST has been shown to share immunohistochemical, ultrastructural and histogenic similarities with the interstitial cells of Cajal. Both GIST and the interstitial cells of Cajal express KIT, the receptor tyrosine kinase that is the protein product of the c- kit proto-oncogene. KIT is universally phosphorylated in GISTs. Sequencing of c- kit complementary DNA from human GIST cells has demonstrated a high frequency of mutations that lead to constitutive activation of the KIT tyrosine kinase in the absence of stimulation by its physiologic ligand (stem cell factor). This, in turn, causes uncontrolled stimulation of downstream signaling cascades with aberrant cellular proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. Historically, malignant GIST has been highly refractory to conventional cytotoxic therapy. Signal transduction inhibition as cancer therapy was first tested successfully with imatinib mesylate (formerly known as STI571), a selective small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor, with the initial target being blockade of Bcr-Abl, the oncogene with tyrosine kinase activity responsible for the pathogenesis of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Imatinib was subsequently shown to block activity of the KIT tyrosine kinase as well, and in laboratory studies this led to apoptotic death of GIST cells. The first GIST patient to receive imatinib exhibited dramatic benefit despite far-advanced metastatic disease that was previously refractory to all chemotherapy. Subsequently, multicenter clinical trials have been performed to assess the safety, efficacy and biologic activity of imatinib in patients with advanced GIST. The results from these studies have established imatinib as an effective new therapeutic alternative for the majority of patients with advanced GIST, a solid tumor for which no prior chemotherapy has ever shown antitumor efficacy. This work provides proof of concept to the hypothesis that selective inhibition of aberrant signal transduction can provide important anticancer activity, if the proper signaling pathways are identified and blocked.
Root acid growth response capacity is unaffected by 60-Hz electric field exposure sufficient to inhibit growth

Abstract Extremely low frequency electric field (ELF-EF) exposures can inhibit growth in plant root model cell systems. The biophysical basis for this effects appears to be the induction of ELF transmembrane potentials; the physiological basis remains unknown. The present experiments tested the hypothesis that ELF-EF exposure reduces the capacity of the root cells to respond to H + ions, an integral process in cellular expansion growth. Exogenous acids were applied to excised segments from Vicia roots previously exposed or sham-exposed to a 60-Hz, 360 V/m electric field for 24 hr. The acid growth response of these segments was then assessed; no apparent differences in root capacity for acid growth were discerned between the field- and sham-exposed segments.
Adenosine and leukotrienes have a regulatory role in lung surfactant secretion in the newborn rabbit.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that secretion of phosphatidylcholine in cultured adult rat type II pneumocytes is stimulated by purinoceptor agonists and leukotrienes. The objective of the present study was to determine if such agents have a physiological role in the regulation of surfactant secretion. We chose the newborn rabbit as the experimental model, since in this system there is a marked increase in surfactant secretion immediately after birth. We examined the effects of an inhibitor of leukotriene biosynthesis, nordihydro-guaiaretic acid, two leukotriene antagonists, FPL-55712 and FPL-57231, and a P1 purinoceptor antagonist, 8-phenyltheophylline, on this increase. Newborn rabbits were delivered by Cesarean section at 30 days gestation. Some animals in each litter were killed immediately, while others were injected with test agents or solvent vehicle while still in the amniotic sacs. After breathing for 3 h in an incubator, these animals were also killed. The lungs were lavaged with saline and the phospholipid content and composition of the lung lavage liquid was measured. In control animals, there was a greater than 2-fold increase in the amounts of total phospholipid and phosphatidylcholine and in the phosphatidylcholine/sphingomyelin ratio during the 3 h period of breathing. The increases in total phospholipid and phosphatidylcholine were decreased 38–62% by the antagonists, while the increase in the phosphatidylcholine/sphingomyelin ratio was decreased 61–77%. These data show that the ventilation-induced increase in secretion of lung surfactant in the newborn rabbit is inhibited by leukotriene and P1 receptor antagonists and by an inhibitor of leukotriene biosynthesis and, when taken together with the data from the tissue culture system, support a role for leukotrienes and adenosine in the physiological regulation of surfactant secretion.
A doubling approach for determining the solution of Riccati-type equations utilizing matrix continued fractions

An algorithm is developed based on a sequence of discrete matrix operations which determine the steady state solution of the matrix Riccati equation. This approach can be shown to be a doubling method and is based on the development of a matrix continued fraction expansion. Examples are provided to illustrate this procedure
The Anatomy of the Acetabulum: What is Normal?

Published studies of the human hip make frequent reference to the normal pelvis and acetabulum. However, other than qualitative descriptions we found no clinically applicable published references describing a normal pelvis and acetabulum; such information is important for designing certain kinds of implants (eg, reconstruction cages). We describe a method to quantify, average, and apply data gathered from normal human specimens to create a standard representation of the ilium and ischium. One hundred healthy hemipelves from 50 human skeletons were evaluated. We measured angles and distances between major anatomic landmarks in the pelvis. The data collected were analyzed for variance and averaged to create a normal topographic map. Finally, we examined several commercially available acetabular reconstruction cages to determine the fit to the anatomically determined normal pelvis. These results provide a representation of true acetabular geometry and may serve as the basis for future acetabular reconstruction cage design.
Binary Computer Generated Holograms As Spatial Filters

We are interested in making computer generated holographic spatial filters on a graphics device which can plot only a limited number of points (such as a storage-tube terminal). The Generalized Binary Computer Generated Hologram is an algorithm which makes efficient use of available plotting points, thus making it attractive for use with these limited plotters. In this paper we study the nature of the set of complex amplitudes one can code with this algorithm. Our main topic is amplitude quantization noise. We show that, since the quantization steps vary in size, the optimum signal normalization is not necessarily that which uses all the quantization steps. We analyze the amplitude quantization noise in several types of real-valued holograms to demonstrate this behavior. We give the results of a measurement of errors in dot size and dot position on a storage tube terminal, and relate this noise to our analysis of amplitude quantization noise.
Phagocytosis of zymosan by human neutrophils

A rapid cellular response occurs when human neutrophils are challenged with the zymosan particle. Monolayers of neutrophils adhering to glass were incubated with opsonized zymosan at 37°C for 15 sec to 3 min, fixed and prepared for observation by SEM, immunofluorescence or TEM. At 15 sec zymosan particles are seen by SEM in contact with the cell surface and by 30 sec partial engulfment into open cavities was apparent. The cavity, into which a zymosan particle is engulfed, forms by extension of lamellipodia around and over the particle. The zymosan particle is sequestered in an intracellular vacuole or phagosome by 1 min. At 3 min neutrophils often show bulging profiles of the internalized zymosan and a loss of surface projections. During early phagocytosis, simultaneous staining with contrasting fluorescent antisera to granule constitutents, myeloperoxidase and lactoferrin, reveals granule antigens within the cavity of the forming phagosome. Sections through the cells examined by TEM after 1–3 min incubation with zymosan show granule contents in the phagosome peripheral space which retains connection to the extracellular environment.
The non-linear pharmacokinetics of prednisone and prednisolone. I. Theoretical

Three simple linear and three simple non-linear pharmacokinetic models are presented which incorporate the reversible metabolism that occurs between prednisone and prednisolone. Under steady-state conditions it is possible to not only distinguish between the linear and non-linear models but also to determine which particular model of each group applies to a given set of data. While the non-linear conversion of prednisolone to prednisone is important in explaining the pharmacokinetics of prednisone in all three non-linear models, the same is not true for prednisolone.
The dual attachment concept: A longitudinal investigation of the combination of task characteristics and leader—member exchange☆

Abstract The job characteristics model has guided a great deal of research on the relationship between task characteristics and employee satisfaction and performance. Research in this area has indicated the necessity of incorporating nontask factors of jobs for further theory building in organizational behavior. Based upon the framework of organizational role theory, the dual attachment model is proposed for the integration of the job characteristic model and the leader-member exchange model. Questionnaire data from 101 employees in a federal agency is used to analyze the three models with respect to the prediction of job attitudes and performance. The results indicate the complementarity of task and interpersonal factors in the prediction of job outcomes. An additive model, as opposed to an interactive model, is supported for the combination of these factors. Findings from time lagged analysis of these models are generally consistent with those from concurrent analyses, but the findings from dynamic analysis are only partially consistent with those of the concurrent and time lagged analyses. Individual difference variables are found to be of little importance in these models.
ESTROGEN ACTION IN THE MOUSE UTERUS: DIFFERENTIAL NUCLEAR LOCALIZATION OF ESTRADIOL IN UTERINE CELL TYPES

Autoradiographic studies of labeled steroid uptake in mouse uterine tissue indicated that labeled estradiol was predominantly sequestered in the nuclei of stromal and glandular epithelial cells at 1 h. Luminal epithelial cells did not show appreciable nuclear accumulation of labeled estradiol until 7-8 h after hormone injection. Studies using non-target tissues and unlabeled steroids indicated that the nuclear uptake events were tissue and estrogen steroid specific. The temporal pattern of steroid hormone uptake in the uterus would suggest that an initial interaction in stromal and glandular epithelial cells may be required prior to nuclear stimulation in the luminal epithelial target cell.
Pyrolysis and film growth studies of phosphinoborane compounds

Abstract Chemical vapor deposition experiments were conducted using phosphinoborane compounds of the type [R 2 BPR′ 2 ] n , where R  CH 2 CH 3 ( 1 ) or CH 3 ( 2 ), R′ C(CH 3 ) 3 , and R  CH 2 CH 3 ( 3 ) or CH 3 ( 4 ), R′  Si(CH 3 ) 3 . Thin films were deposited on Si substrates at 300–850°C under vacuum using 1–3 , while no film formed using 4 . All films contained considerable carbon (C/B = 0.67–7) and were deficient in phosphorus (P/B = 0-0.5) according to Auger electron spectroscopy. For 3 , silicon was incorporated in the films (Si/B = 0.9–2). The preferential loss of phosphorus was nearly complete at higher pyrolysis temperatures that favor formation of carbon-rich films. Volatile products of the decompositions were observed by in situ mass spectroscopy and by 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of the condensate in a liquid nitrogen cooled trap. The products indicate that β-hydrogen elimination of alkene from boron is a preferred reaction pathway, while concerted elimination reactions appear to be inefficient. Although these phosphinoborane compounds do not appear to be suitable precursors for pure boron phosphide, the B-P-C films obtained are chemically inert and may be of interest as protective coatings.
Nitrogen effect on elastic constants of f.c.c. Fe-18Cr-19Mn alloys

Abstract Previously, the authors studied effects of interstitial carbon-plus-nitrogen (C + N) on the elastic constants of f.c.c. Fe-18Cr-10Ni-1Mn alloys. Consistent with a volume increase, all the elastic stiffnesses decrease with increasing C + N. The present alloys show different behavior: although volume increases, interstitial nitrogen atoms increase the bulk modulus. The peculiar bulk-modulus-electron-concentration behavior ( B vs . n e of 3d electron elements is described. At first B increases with increasing n e ; beyond a critical concentration, B decreases rapidly. Application of Ducastelle's model (bandstructure and repulsion energies) shows that interstitial nitrogen increases the bandstructure contribution to the bulk modulus.