cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The association of transversus abdominis plane block with length of stay, pain and opioid consumption after anterior or lateral lumbar fusion: a retrospective study

Anterior (ALIF) and lateral (LLIF) lumbar interbody fusion is associated with significant postoperative pain, opioid consumption and length of stay. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks improve these outcomes in other surgical subtypes but have not been applied to spine surgery. A retrospective study of 250 patients was performed to describe associations between TAP block and outcomes after ALIF/LLIF. The electronic medical records of 129 patients who underwent ALIF or LLIF with TAP block were compared to 121 patients who did not. All patients were cared for under a standardized perioperative care pathway with comprehensive multimodal analgesia. Differences in patent demographics, surgical factors, length of stay (LOS), opioid consumption, opioid-related side effects and pain scores were compared in bivariable and multivariable regression analyses. In bivariable analyses, TAP block was associated with a significantly shorter LOS, less postoperative nausea/vomiting and lower opioid consumption in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). In multivariable analyses, TAP block was associated with significantly shorter LOS (β − 12 h, 95% CI (− 22, − 2 h); p = 0.021). Preoperative opioid use was a strong predictive factor for higher opioid consumption in the PACU, opioid use in the first 24 h after surgery and longer LOS. We did not find significant differences in pain scores at any times between the groups. TAP block may represent an effective addition to pain management and opioid-reducing strategies and improve outcomes after ALIF/LLIF. Prospective trials are warranted to further explore these associations.
The Chi-Square Test of Distance Correlation

Distance correlation has gained much recent attention in the data science community: the sample statistic is straightforward to compute and asymptotically equals zero if and only if independence, m...
Light-induced correlated ion transport

An “on/off” functionality of a nanopore or channel is critical to control ion transport. In this issue, Chen et al. 2 report the elegant use of light as a trigger to induce ionic Coulomb blockade in single-layer sub-nanoporous MoS2. Light-induced surface charge phenomenon is fast and reversible making it a promising technique to probe charged transport.
Placing the Extubation in the Respiratory Therapist’s Hands

Background: Many patients who are mechanically ventilated are often extubated long after being clinically ready. Extended and unnecessary mechanical ventilation time can lead to several negative outcomes, such as increased risk of infection, ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), ventilator-associated events (VAE) and increased length of stay (LOS). At our medical center, patients’ extubations were found to be delayed (after meeting criteria) for several reasons, including resident physician hesitancy, lack of attending physician presence, or proximity to end of shift. Our goal was to define and implement a protocol with a set of objective criteria for weaning and extubation. Using this protocol, the respiratory therapist (RT) would extubate the patient without a physician evaluation – eliminating delay and shortening course of mechanical ventilation without any unplanned reintubations. Methods: Every evening during rounds, weaning and extubation evaluation for every ventilated patient would be discussed between the RT and resident provider. If weaning readiness criteria was met, a daily 1-h weaning trial would be performed between the hours of 04:00 am – 06:00 am. If a successful trial was completed, the RT would perform pulmonary mechanics and Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) to assess extubation readiness (per protocol). If the patient met extubation criteria, they would be extubated by the RT. Success was defined as remaining ventilator free for 72 h post-extubation. Results: There were a total of 34 patients during the evaluation period who met criteria for weaning and completed a successful 1 hour weaning trial. Of these, 12 (35.3%) were successfully extubated by an RT following the protocol. Poor neurological status, provider declined, planned procedures, and other (12, 5, 2, 4 respectively), were given as reasons for not extubating the other 22 patients. None of the RT driven protocol extubations required reintubation within the 72-h window. Conclusions: Implementing a respiratory therapy driven weaning and extubation protocol can help successfully facilitate and expedite extubation by RTs. With clearly defined criteria and a care plan in place, the RT can successfully evaluate, assess, and perform extubation without direct physician guidance.
High Mass Star Formation in Galactic and Extragalactic Molecular Clouds

We utilize CO and IR surveys to determine high mass star formation rates in molecular clouds. For galactic molecular cloud - H II region complexes, the average far IR luminosity per unit cloud mass, (L IR /M VT ) = 4 (LΘ/MΘ), is independent of the cloud mass for clouds from 104 to 5 × 106 MΘ. Since the source of the far IR luminosity is primarily young massive stars, the rate of star formation per unit mass is independent of cloud mass. This argues against nonlinear processes such as supernova-induced star formation, or star formation-induced star formation which would result in higher star formation efficiencies in the most massive clouds. The moderate star formation rate observed, which corresponds to a gas depletion time within the clouds of ~ 2 × 109 years for formation of high mass stars (M > 2 MΘ), suggests that the star formation process is self limiting. A comparison of galactic clouds with L IR and L CO from external galaxies (Sage 1987, Solomon and Sage 1987) shows that isolated or weakly interacting galaxies have a far IR to CO luminosity ratio L IR /L CO which can be interpreted as arising from star formation rates in giant molecular clouds similar to those in the Milky Way. Galaxies with tidal tails or bridges and merging systems have a much higher L IR /L CO and thus a much higher star formation rate per unit H2 mass than any galactic molecular cloud. Thus the star formation process must be fundamentally different than in galactic molecular clouds. The regulation which keeps the star formation rate modest in the galactic disk clouds is clearly not operating in these closely interacting systems.
Attitudinal and Intentional Acceptance of Domestic Robots by Younger and Older Adults

A study was conducted to examine the expectations that younger and older individuals have about domestic robots and how these expectations relate to robot acceptance. In a questionnaire participants were asked to imagine a robot in their home and to indicate how much items representing technology, social partner, and teammate acceptance matched their robot. There were additional questions about how useful and easy to use they thought their robot would be. The dependent variables were attitudinal and intentional acceptance. The analysis of the responses of 117 older adults (aged 65-86) and 60 younger adults (aged 18-25) indicated that individuals thought of robots foremost as performance-directed machines, less so as social devices, and least as unproductive entities. The robustness of the Technology Acceptance Model to robot acceptance was supported. Technology experience accounted for the variance in robot acceptance due to age.
The Weyl Computer Algebra Substrate

Weyl is a new type of computer algebra substrate that extends an existing, object oriented programming language with symbolic computing mechanisms. Rather than layering a new language on top of an existing one, Weyl behaves like a powerful subroutine library, but takes heavy advantage of the ability to overload primitive arithmetic operations in the base language. In addition to the usual objects manipulated in computer algebra systems (polynomial, rational functions, matrices, etc.), domains (e.g., Z, Q[x, y, z]) are also first class objects in Weyl.
Evolutionary computation as a multi-agent search: a -calculus perspective for its completeness and optimality

Evolutionary computation in its essence represents a multi-agent competitive probabilistic search. It is useful for solutions of polynomial and hard optimization problems. The solutions found by evolutionary algorithms are not guaranteed to be optimal and evolutionary search is computationally very expensive. Using a generic -calculus approach to AI, based on process algebras and anytime algorithms, we show that evolutionary search can be considered a special case of -calculus k/spl Omega/-search, and we present some results about completeness, optimality and search costs for evolutionary computation. The main result of the paper is to demonstrate how using -calculus to make evolutionary computation totally optimal, i.e., how to allow to find the best quality solution with minimal search cost.
The determination of the distribution of molecular weight of polymer samples

A new method is presented for the determination of the molecular weight distribution from intrinsic viscosity and weight fraction data obtained for a series of fractions. A GAUSSian distribution of molecular weights for the individual fractions is assumed. The experimental intrinsic viscosity of the individual fractions is identified with the maxima of the differential mass distribution of the individual fraction. The weight fraction as a function of molecular weight for the individual fractions are summed to give a molecular weight distribution curve characteristic of the unfractionated sample. Theoretical relationships for the approach are presented. The corresponding computer program is given in Fortran IV. The method is tested using literature data and original measurements on a polyurea.
Spongiform encephalopathies and prions: An overview of pathology and disease mechanisms

The etiology of spongiform encephalopathies has been sharply contested for decades. At the heart of the issue is the question of disease origin: Are prion diseases representative of primary neurodegenerative genetic disorders, or are they bona fide infectious diseases? This article provides a brief outline of the progress made in the elucidation of prion disease mechanisms in the context of pathological support of the ‘protein only’ hypothesis. The answer to the above question appears to be that spongiform encephalopathies are uniquely both infectious and genetic neurodegenerative diseases.
Multifunctional Circuits in Functional Canonical Form

The primary objective of this paper is to extend the results of the earlier paper, “A Functional Canonical Form”, in this journal [4]. This extension includes the application of the fundamental functional canonical form to multiple output circuits and the formulation of cost bounds on these circuits. It also includes the use of a multifunctional canonical form in the design of single output circuits.
Masked Ion Beam Lithography For Submicrometer Device Fabrication

Masked ion beam lithography (MIBL) is a high resolution pattern replication technology that uses a collimated proton beam directed through a patterned mask to expose a resist-coated wafer in proximity to the mask. A major step in the demonstration of MIBL as a practical lithography for submicrometer device processing has been achieved with the fabrication of functional n-channel metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) devices. We present details of the mask fabrication, resist and process technology development, and the resulting NMOS test chip characteristics.
Quasi-Equilibrium Temperature Differences between Radiating Ice Crystals and the Surrounding Air

Abstract A previous attempt to calculate the temperature gradient around a growing ice crystal in clear air started with the radiation budget of the crystal plus the assumption that the measured frost point temperature (about 2C below air temperature) represented the crystal temperature. When the conductivity equation for the air around the crystal is fully solved with the radiation budget as the boundary condition, however, it is found that less than 0.03C temperature difference can be sustained by radiative cooling of the crystals. The most probable explanation of the difference between the two approaches is that the humidity measurements are in error, and that the error has been generally recognized only at measured humidities in excess of 100%.
Screen test for large mirrors.

A shop method for testing large mirrors using a square-array sampling screen has been developed. The main features of this method are simple test setup independent of random air turbulence, high surface sampling rate, reliability and repeatability of results, detection of surface departures ±0.1λ (at 5000 A) or greater from the ideal surface, and self-calibration. Only large-area departures can be accurately detected by this method.
Cohomology and the operator formalism

Abstract This letter points a close parallel between the operator formalism for string theory and the action of a Lie algebra on a differential complex. The construction of conformal field theories can then be regarded as a cohomology problem; we suggest that this viewpoint may survive the generalization beyond finite genus Riemann surfaces.
The Differential Diagnosis of Descemet's Tears (Haab's Striae) and Posterior Polymorphous Dystrophy Bands: A Clinicopathologic Study

Band-like structures, clinically similar to Haab's striae, occur in posterior polymorphous dystrophy (PPMD) and are often confused with them. The difference in clinical appearance based on difference in histopathology allows a clear differentiation. The edge of Haab's striae are thickened, curled, and secondarily proliferate Descemet's membrane, while the area between the edge is thin and smooth. Posterior polymorphous dystrophy bands are the exact opposite. The band is a thickening of Descemet's membrane between the edges with thinner, more normal Descemet's membrane outside of them. PPMD bands may be associated with typical vesicles or appear as the only sign of dystrophy, even in the eyes of patients with a known family history.
REACTIONS OF CARBON MONOXIDE WITH trans-Ir(CO)(Cl)(TPPMS)2 (TPPMS = PPh2(C6H4SO3K)) IN DMSO AND WATER, RATE AND MECHANISTIC STUDIES

Abstract Reaction of CO with trans-Ir(CO)(Cl)L2 (L = PPh3 in toluene and DMSO; L = TPPMS in DMSO and H2O, TPPMS = PPh2(m-C6H4SO3Na)) reversibly produces Ir(CO)2(Cl)L2 or [Ir(CO)3L2]Cl depending on the solvent polarity. The solvent polarity has a small effect on the rate of reaction with CO; the rate constants in toluene, DMSO and H2O are all within a factor of two. Comparison to the reaction with H2 shows that the selectivity for CO is much greater (k CO/k H2 = 150) in toluene than in water (k CO/k H2 = 5).
Detection of rat ceruloplasmin receptors using fluorescence microscopy and microdensitometry

Rat ceruloplasmin (rCp) has been labeled with the fluorophores fluorescein and rhodamine by using the isothiocyanate derivatives (FITC, RBITC). High p-phenylenediamine oxidase activity of the resulting conjugates was observed (70-90% of native activity). Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed fluorescein-labeled rCp (FITC-rCp) had an increased mobility, while rhodamine-labeled rCp (RBITC-rCp) showed no increase in mobility when compared to native rCp. RBITC-rCp was tested as a probe for ceruloplasmin receptors on rat erythrocytes using fluorescence microscopy to detect membrane binding. Film negatives of blood smears exposed under identical conditions were analyzed by microdensitometry to give relative optical densities for the amount of RBITC-rCp bound per unit area of the plasma membrane. With this technique, binding of rCp was observed to be saturable, reversible, and specific. Competition of the protein ligands superoxide dismutase, catalase, and unlabeled rCp against RBITC-rCp already bound on erythrocytes showed that only rCp could displace the bound RBITC-rCp with 32% specific binding being observed. Low levels of membrane binding were seen after the erythrocytes had been trypsin treated. Platelet binding was also detected and it was saturable, reversible, and trypsin sensitive. However, only 20% of the bound RBITC-rCp could be displaced by rCp. These studies demonstrate a versatile technique for detection and localization of Cp receptors.
A Deep X-Ray Image of IC 2391

ABSTRACT A 56 ks soft X‐ray image of the IC 2391 star cluster has been acquired with the ROSAT High Resolution Imager, resulting in the detection of 34 sources above a 3 σ detection level of \documentclass{aastex} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{bm} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{pifont} \usepackage{stmaryrd} \usepackage{textcomp} \usepackage{portland,xspace} \usepackage{amsmath,amsxtra} \usepackage[OT2,OT1]{fontenc} \newcommand\cyr{ \renewcommand\rmdefault{wncyr} \renewcommand\sfdefault{wncyss} \renewcommand\encodingdefault{OT2} \normalfont \selectfont} \DeclareTextFontCommand{\textcyr}{\cyr} \pagestyle{empty} \DeclareMathSizes{10}{9}{7}{6} \begin{document} \landscape $L_{\mathrm{X}\,}\simeq 4\times 10^{28}$ \end{document} ergs s−1. We report source coordinates and fluxes plus identifications and broadband BVRI photometry for optical counterparts to each source. We compare these results with X‐ray source fluxes from a ROSAT PSPC image of the same region, whic...
THE INHIBITION OF CURVATURES IN TIMOTHY ROOTS BY CERTAIN CHEMICALS

1955. Further analysis of genetic control of heterocaryosis in Neurospora crassa. Amer. Jour. Bot. 42: 444-448. HOLLOWAY, B. W. 1955. Genetic control of heterocaryosis in Neurpora crassa. Genetics 40: 117-129. HUEBSCHMAN, C. 1952. A method for varying the average number of nuclei in the conidia of Neurospora crassa. Mycologia 44: 599-604. PITTENGER, T. H., AND K. C. ATWOOD. 1954. The relation of growth rate to nuclear ratio in Neurospora heterocaryons. Genetics 39: 987. PROUT, T., C. HUEBSCHMAN, H. LEVENE, AND F. J. RYAN. 1953. The proportion of nuclear types in Neurospora heterocaryons as determined by plating conidia. Genetics 38: 518-529. RYAN, F. J., G. W. BEADLE, AND E. L. TATUM. 1943. The tube method of measuring the growth rate of Neurospora. Amer. Jour. Bot. 30: 784-799.
Multiple sclerosis: TNF revisited, with promise.

The antidepressant drug rolipram inhibits tumor necrosis factor-α. This may make it an effective treatment for multiple sclerosis (pages 244–248).
Probability Method Applied to the Analysis of Recrystallization Data

Probability equations are developed for the purpose of analyzing recrystallization data to determine what mechanisms may operate during recrystallization processes. The equations allow for inexact variations in orientation changes provided the variations are small. $P(E)=1.43{\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{3}$ gives the probability that a nucleation will result in an orientation falling within $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ radians of a specified one $A$ on a chance basis. Other equations are given for the probability of occurrence of nearly common orientations for various types of groupings. Values of probabilities are given in tables.
The formation of α-d-(1→3) branch linkages by an exocellular glucansucrase from Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B-742☆

Abstract Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B-742 produces two exocellular α- d -glucans, namely, fraction L, which consists of an α- d -(1→6) backbone with α- d -(1→4) branch-points, and fraction S, which consists of an α- d -(1→6) backbone with α- d -(1→3) branch-points. It was found that the percentage of α- d -(1→3) branch-points in fraction S glucan is variable, depending on the conditions under which it is synthesized from sucrose by the exocellular glucansucrase, and that α- d -(1→3) branch formation by this glucansucrase occurs by acceptor reactions in which α- d -glucosyl groups are transferred from sucrose to OH-3 groups on α- d -(1→6)-linked d -glucan chains. Thus, any change in reaction conditions that affects the rate of acceptor reactions relative to chain elongation also affects the degree of branching in B-742 fraction S dextran. It was also found that this glucansucrase is capable of modifying other dextrans, such as B-512F and B-742 fraction L, by transferring d -glucosyl groups to OH-3 of d -glucosyl residues in these dextrans as well.
EPSILON AMINO CAPROIC ACID THERAPY AS A CAUSE OF INTRARENAL OBSTRUCTION IN HAEMATURIA OF HAEMOPHILIACS.

1. Three patients with classic haemophilia presented with a similar intrarenal obstructive pattern. Two of the patients had been treated for idiopathic haematuria. The third patient developed the renal obstructive problem in his post-operative period. 2. The pyelography studies implicate an intrarenal unilateral obstructive mechanism in each patient as cause for abnormality. Intratubular fibrin deposition is suggested as a possibility. 3. E-ACA was being used as a therapeutic endeavor in all these patients and was discontinued just prior to the development of symptoms. The evidence presented suggests that the intrarenal obstruction may be secondary to E-ACA therapy rather than a complication of the bleeding disease.
Spectral Bias in Adaptive Beamforming With Narrowband Interference

It is shown that adaptive canceling arrays which track interference by regular updates of the beamformer weights can introduce a spectral null at the excised interference frequency. This PSD estimation bias effect we call ldquospectral scoopingrdquo is most prominent for narrowband interference (i.e., occupying only a few spectral bins at the desired PSD estimation resolution). Scooping is problematic in radio astronomy where bias in either the weak signal or noise floor spectra can corrupt the observation. The mathematical basis for scooping is derived, and an algorithm to eliminate it is proposed. Both simulated and real data experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
First principles angle-resolved photoemission intensity calculations for YBa2Cu3O7(001)-surface

Abstract We discuss first-principles angle-resolved photoemission (ARPES) intensity calculations for the (001)-surface of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 , with focus on spectra for k ∥ -values along the ΓS symmetry direction. The theoretical spectra show the sensitivity of the spectral shape to the specific surface termination used in the computations. The experimental spectra however appear to be well-described by assuming the first layer to be BaO followed by the CuO 2 plane layer. Effects of the direction of polarization vector of the incident light on the spectra are examined; in particular, we show that the predicted behavior of the spectral feature arising from the CuO 2 plane bands is in remarkable accord with experiments. This result gives confidence in the reasonableness of the LDA wave functions implicit in the computations.
Flexible Processing and the Design of Grammar.

We explore the consequences of letting the incremental and integrative nature of language processing inform the design of competence grammar. What emerges is a view of grammar as a system of local monotonic constraints that provide a direct characterization of the signs (the form-meaning correspondences) of a given language. This "sign-based" conception of grammar has provided precise solutions to the key problems long thought to motivate movement-based analyses, has supported three decades of computational research developing large-scale grammar implementations, and is now beginning to play a role in computational psycholinguistics research that explores the use of underspecification in the incremental computation of partial meanings.
1490 UPDATING INTRAUTERINE GROWTH CURVES

Since classification of infants at birth into proper intra-uterine (IU) growth categories is vital for risk assessment, we tested whether the widely used Colorado (C) standards, (Lubchenco et al, 1963) which were based on a small sample of 5635 white infants (18% premature), would be appropriate to classify today's urban infant population of mixed ethnicity. Data from 32,076 singleton liveborn infants born in 13 University of Illinois (UI) network hospitals between 1982–83 were analysed. 51% of infants were white, 25% black and 19% hispanics. 2075 infants were ≤ 36 weeks. RESULTS: For all gestational ages between 32–42 weeks, the 10th, 50th and 90th percentile (PC) weights from UI data were 2-28% higher than the C standards. (P 90th PC) groups using both standards are in the table. Since C weights were lower at all gestations, C standards under-counted SGA frequency and over-counted the LGA frequency in our population. Thus with C standards 5100 infants (16% of total) were classified into wrong intra-uterine growth categories. A spectrum of morbidity risk analysis (Apgar score, Mat. Diabetes etc) in these infants suggest that all our infants should be classified using UI standards rather than C standards. We conclude that regional IU growth standards must be developed for proper classification of infants at birth.
Structure of a collagen‐GAG dermal skin substitute optimized for cultured human epidermal keratinocytes

Collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) dermal skin substitutes (membranes) were studied as substrates for cultured human epidermal keratinocytes. Structure of dermal substitutes was optimized for pore size to promote ingrowth of fibrovascular tissue from the wound bed and for culture of human keratinocytes of the membrane's surface. Pore size of the freeze-dried material was regulated by control of the temperature of freezing between -50 degrees C and -20 degrees C and by concentration of starting materials between 0.17% and 1.62% wt/vol. A nonporous surface of collagen-GAG was laminated to the membranes to provide a planar substrate for cultured epidermal keratinocytes. Thickness of dermal substitutes was regulated by control of the volume and concentration of starting materials. Biotin was conjugated to solubilized collagen for binding with avidin of specific quantities of biologically active molecules. The optimized membranes are suitable substrates for the culture of human epidermal keratinocytes, and together with the cells yield a composite material that is histologically similar to skin.
Current Status of Western Yellow-Billed Cuckoo along the Sacramento and Feather Rivers, California

To evaluate the current status of the western population of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) along the Sacramento and Feather rivers in California’s Sacramento Valley, we conducted extensive call playback surveys in 2012 and 2013. We also quantified the amount and distribution of potential habitat. Our survey transects were randomly located and spatially balanced to sample representative areas of the potential habitat. We estimated that the total area of potential habitat was 8,134 ha along the Sacramento River and 2,052 ha along the Feather River, for a total of 10,186 ha. Large-scale restoration efforts have created potential habitat along both of these rivers. Despite this increase in the amount of habitat, the number of cuckoos we detected was extremely low. There were 8 detection occasions in 2012 and 10 occasions in 2013 on the Sacramento River, in both restored and remnant habitat. We had no detections on the Feather River in either year. We compared our results to 10 historic studies from as far back as 1972 and found that the Yellow-billed Cuckoo had unprecedentedly low numbers in 2010, 2012, and 2013. The current limiting factor for the Yellow-billed Cuckoo in the Sacramento Valley is likely not the amount of appropriate vegetation, as restoration has created more habitat over the last 30 years. Reasons for the cuckoo decline on the Sacramento and Feather rivers are unclear.
A novel phenylaminotetralin (PAT) recognizes histamine H1 receptors and stimulates dopamine synthesis in vivo in rat brain.

Abstract A series of novel phenylaminotetralins (PATs) previously was shown to recognize discrete binding sites that are stereoselectively labeled by [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-1-phenyl-3-N,N-dimethylamino-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene (H2-PAT) and highly localized in catecholaminergic nerve terminal regions in guinea pig forebrain. Furthermore, certain PATs stimulate tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine synthesis in guinea pig and rat brain in vitro. In the current studies, we characterized sites labeled by [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-H2-PAT and measured effects of PATs on dopamine synthesis in vivo in rat brain. [ 3 H ]-(−)-Trans-H2-PAT binds saturably (Bmax∼13 fmol/mg protein) and with high affinity (KD∼0.5 nM) to a single population of sites in rat brain. The ligand binding profile of [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-H2-PAT labeled sites is very similar to histamine H1 receptors labeled with [ 3 H ]-mepyramine. After i.c.v. injection to rats, (±)-trans H2-PAT (4–40 nmoles/kg) stimulates dopamine synthesis (to about 180% of control levels) selectively in the limbic brain region nucleus accumbens vs. the extrapyramidal region striatum; this effect is fully blocked by (±)-cis-H2-PAT and the H1 antagonist triprolidine. At higher doses (>40 nmoles/kg), the observed stimulation of dopamine synthesis is attenuated to control levels, likely due to activation of feedback mechanisms resulting from non-receptor mediated displacement of intraneuronal dopamine. We propose that PATs represent a novel class of ligands for H1 receptors that can modulate tyrosine hydroxylase activity and dopamine synthesis in the limbic region of mammalian forebrain.
Smarter Financial Management -- An Answer to the Missing Link between Key Performance Indicators and Budgeting Decisions for Smarter Cities

Most government entities (cities, schools, etc) use traditional accounting systems and related financial tools to plan budgets. Some introduce more advanced technologies, such as ERP systems to perform this task. However both tend to focus on budgeting from a purely financial perspective and are incapable of linking the impact of budgeting decisions with the strategic objectives trying to be achieved. Even ERP systems typically focus on gathering the data and comparing it with the budget, not on the models underlying the budget itself. To address this gap, we introduce outcome based budgeting for cities and local governments, which takes a radically different approach to the budgeting process. Instead of departments, it looks at the government entities as the service systems they are. Every service a government entity provides has both a financial model, as well as a performance model. These models are linked so that the performance impacts of financial decisions can be investigated and studied. Individual service systems are also linked together into a larger service system, allowing the big picture for each financial decision to be seen. This approach offers better insight to decision makers and could help them prioritize projects for budgeting. It might even make the process politically less contentious by offering transparency and rationale to staff and citizens alike. Impacts that were once invisible are brought to light, allowing for smarter, fact-based decision making by the government leaders. Once adopted, outcome based budgeting opens up opportunities for various analytics, as services are well defined and have concrete models. These analytics allow for better decision-support via what-if scenario planning, and can over time help in project prioritization.
Neutrophil labeling: problems and pitfalls.

The use of neutrophils labeled with gamma-emitting radionuclides has been shown to be acceptable for in vivo kinetic studies as well as for imaging inflammatory foci. Among the gamma-emitting radionuclides, indium-111 appears to be the agent of choice. Labeling neutrophils with 111 In, however, is a relatively new technique. Although simple to perform, it involves several stages, none of which could be carried out without problems. These are discussed and the current research aimed at eliminating the problems is outlined. The knowledge of specific chemotactic receptors and surface antigens has stimulated investigations into selective neutrophil labeling that will continue to be challenging and exciting.
Alkaline hydrolysis of 1,3-dimethylphenobarbital.

Abstract The reaction of 1,3-dimethylphenobarbital (I) with 0.02–0.32 M KOH in aqueous methanol was studied. The barbiturate ring cleaved reversibly at the 1,6-position, forming a malonuric acid which was stable to further hydrolysis but which could readily recyclize to I. N , N - Di- methylethylphenylmalondiamide arose from decarboxylation of the carbamic acid formed by a 1,2-ring opening; this irreversible decarboxylation determined the diamide as the only final reaction product. The malonuric acid, which could be isolated in solid form, appeared as N - methyl-2-phenylbutyramide (GLC) following thermal decarboxylation and degradation of the acid. The I disappearance rate was biphasic, and the kinetics were consistent with the described reaction. The individual rate constants and the equilibrium constant for the reaction between I, the malonuric acid, and hydroxide were determined.
Computable concurrent processes

Abstract We study relative computability for processes and process transformations, in general, and in particular the non-deterministic and concurrent processes which can be specified in terms of various fair merge constructs. The main result is a normal form theorem for these (relatively) computable process functions which implies that although they can be very complex when viewed as classical set-functions, they are all “loosely implementable” in the sense of Park (1980). The precise results are about the player model of concurrency introduced in Moschovakis (1991), which supports both fairness constructs and full recursion.
Nuclear transplantation in the axolotl

Abstract There are currently available in the axolotl several genes that affect development at times ranging from cleavage to larval stages. These genes would be extremely useful as markers in nuclear transplantation studies of nuclear differentiation. It is also possible that by the use of such genes the analysis of nuclear differentiation might eventually be refined to detect changes in the genes themselves, if they occur. In the past the exploitation of the axolotl material for work of this type has not been feasible because axolotl eggs, like those of other urodeles, have generally given very poor results in nuclear transplantation experiments. The present paper presents an analysis of the factors which determine whether or not nuclear transfers succeed in this species. This analysis shows that the conditions required for the transfers to be successful are: (1) activation of the egg by heat shock (35° C for 5 minutes)7; (2) enucleation by ultraviolet irradiation; and (3) nuclear transfer at 2 to 4 hours following the application of the heat shock. A method based on this analysis is described in detail on pages 151–154. Tests of the method were made by transplanting blastula nuclei into activated and enucleated eggs. Ninety-six per cent of the eggs cleaved and 77% developed into complete blastulae of normal appearance. The majority of these blastulae (66%) developed to postneurula stages. The validity of the method was tested by transplanting nuclei carrying the dominant gene D (for black pigmentation pattern) into enucleated eggs from a recessive white (dd) female. A total of 37 larvae were obtained. All showed the black phenotype, proving that the nuclear transfers were successful.
Impact of donor-recipient race matching on survival after lung transplantation: analysis of over 11,000 patients.

Background Few studies have examined the effect of race in lung transplantation (LTx). The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database provides an opportunity to examine outcomes of race matching for a large cohort of patients. Methods We retrospectively reviewed UNOS data for 11,323 adults receiving primary LTx (1997 to 2007). Patients were stratified by donor–recipient race matching and divided into groups of specific race. All-cause mortality was examined with Cox proportional hazards regression incorporating 19 covariates. Short-term mortality (30 days, 90 days, 1 year and 2 years) and rejection in the first year were examined. Results Of 11,323 patients, 7,414 (65%) were race matched, including 7,104 (71%) Caucasians, 184 (22%) African Americans, 117 (28%) Hispanics and 9 (11%) Asians. During the study, 4,862 (43%) patients died. Race matching decreased the 30-day, 90-day, 1-year and 2-year unadjusted mortality. Race matching decreased risk-adjusted cumulative mortality (hazard ratio 0.88, 95% confidence interval 0.80 to 0.96, p = 0.006). Kaplan–Meier modeling showed that race matching significantly improved survival. Race matching did not impact rejection in the year after LTx. When deaths in the first year were censored, race matching no longer affected cumulative survival. Donor African American race conferred an increased risk of death, regardless of recipient race. Conclusions Our study represents the largest cohort evaluating the effect of race matching in LTx. Race matching resulted in an improvement in long-term survival. This improvement appears to manifest in the 2 years after LTx.
Fatty acid 2-hydroxylase mediates diffusional mobility of Raft-associated lipids, GLUT4 level, and lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Straight chain fatty acid α-oxidation increases during differentiation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, leading to a marked accumulation of odd chain length fatty acyl moieties. Potential roles of this pathway in adipocyte differentiation and lipogenesis are unknown. Mammalian fatty acid 2-hydroxylase (FA2H) was recently identified and suggested to catalyze the initial step of straight chain fatty acid α-oxidation. Accordingly, we examined whether FA2H modulates adipocyte differentiation and lipogenesis in mature adipocytes. FA2H level markedly increases during differentiation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, and small interfering RNAs against FA2H inhibit the differentiation process. In mature adipocytes, depletion of FA2H inhibits basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and lipogenesis, which are partially rescued by the enzymatic product of FA2H, 2-hydroxy palmitic acid. Expression of fatty-acid synthase and SCD1 was decreased in FA2H-depleted cells, and levels of GLUT4 and insulin receptor proteins were reduced. 2-Hydroxy fatty acids are enriched in cellular sphingolipids, which are components of membrane rafts. Accelerated diffusional mobility of raft-associated lipids was shown to enhance degradation of GLUT4 and insulin receptor in adipocytes. Consistent with this, depletion of FA2H appeared to increase raft lipid mobility as it significantly accelerated the rates of fluorescence recovery after photobleaching measurements of lipid rafts labeled with Alexa 488-conjugated cholera toxin subunit B. Moreover, the enhanced recovery rates were partially reversed by treatment with 2-hydroxy palmitic acid. In conclusion, our findings document the novel role of FA2H in adipocyte lipogenesis possibly by modulation of raft fluidity and level of GLUT4.
Stress‐optical manifestations of molecular and microstructural dynamics in complex polymer melts

Experimental methods are presented for investigating molecular and microstructural aspects of the rheology of polymer melts. Measurements of stress, birefringence, and dichroism are made simultaneously so that the connection between macroscopic viscoelasticity and the dynamics of the fluid microstructure can be established as directly and unambiguously as possible. We show how quantitative characterization of departure from the stress‐optic rule can expose distinct molecular and microstructural dynamics in complex polymer melts. This general approach is applied (1) to resolve the contributions of distinct species to the macroscopic stress, illustrated using a miscible polymer blend, (2) to discriminate between dynamical regimes that are controlled by conformational or microstructural relaxation, illustrated using an ordered block copolymer, and (3) to distinguish the dynamics of topologically distinct parts of a given molecule, illustrated using a side‐group liquid‐crystalline polymer.
Population Diversity and Policy Diversity: Explaining State Choices in Medicaid Managed Care

Research on U.S. state policy making finds contradictory results that indicate that the diversity of a state will lead to policies that are either liberal or conservative. I hypothesize that in many instances states with greater diversity will in fact be more willing to adopt and implement programs that are less polarizing. To test this assumption this research examines the decisions that policy makers have made when developing and implementing state-level Medicaid managed care programs. The results suggest that states with greater socioeconomic and cultural diversity do not experience greater program diversity, while states with greater party competition and moderate ideology do implement managed care programs with greater diversity.
National use of prescription medications for insomnia: NHANES 1999-2010

STUDY OBJECTIVES To determine current patterns and predictors of use of prescription medications commonly used for insomnia (MCUFI) in the U.S. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999-2010. PARTICIPANTS 32,328 noninstitutionalized community-dwelling U.S. adults. INTERVENTIONS N/A. MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS WE DEFINED MCUFI USE AS USE OF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING MEDICATIONS IN THE PRECEDING MONTH: benzodiazepine receptor agonists (eszopiclone, zaleplon, zolpidem, estazolam, flurazepam, quazepam, temazepam, triazolam), barbiturates (amobarbital, amobarbitalsecobarbital, chloral hydrate), doxepin, quetiapine, ramelteon, and trazodone. We estimated prevalence of MCUFI use and concurrent use of another sedating medication. We determined predictors of MCUFI use using multivariate logistic regression. Overall, 3% percent of adults used a MCUFI within the preceding month. Zolpidem and trazodone were used most commonly. Overall MCUFI use increased between 1999-2000 and 2009-2010 (P value for trend < 0.001). Concurrent use of other sedating medications was high, with 55% of MCUFI users taking at least one other sedating medication and 10% taking ≥ 3 other sedating medications. Concurrent use of MCUFIs with opioids (24.6%) and non-MCUFI benzodiazepines (19.5%) were most common. After adjustment, adults seeing a mental health provider (aOR 4.68, 95% C.I. 3.79, 5.77), using other sedating medications (aOR 4.18, 95% C.I. 3.36, 5.19), and age ≥ 80 years (aOR 2.55, 95% C.I. 1.63, 4.01) had highest likelihood of MCUFI use. CONCLUSION In this nationally representative sample, reported use of prescription medications commonly used for insomnia (MCUFIs) within the preceding month was common, particularly among older adults and those seeing a mental health provider, with high use of sedative polypharmacy among MCUFI users.
Differential neuregulin 1 cleavage in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: preliminary findings.

Background Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) is a key candidate susceptibility gene for both schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BPD). The function of the NRG1 transmembrane proteins is regulated by cleavage. Alteration of membrane bound-NRG1 cleavage has been previously shown to be associated with behavioral impairments in mouse models lacking expression of NRG1-cleavage enzymes such as BACE1 and gamma secretase. We sought to determine whether alterations in NRG1 cleavage and associated enzymes occur in patients with SCZ and BPD. Methodology/Principal Findings Using human postmortem brain, we evaluated protein expression of NRG1 cleavage products and enzymes that cleave at the external (BACE1, ADAM17, ADAM19) and internal (PS1-gamma secretase) sides of the cell membrane. We used three different cohorts (Controls, SCZ and BPD) and two distinct brain regions: BA9-prefrontal cortex (Controls (n = 6), SCZ (n = 6) and BPD (n = 6)) and hippocampus (Controls (n = 5), SCZ (n = 6) and BPD (n = 6)). In BA9, the ratio of the NRG1 N-terminal fragment relative to full length was significantly upregulated in the SCZ cohort (Bonferroni test, p = 0.011). ADAM17 was negatively correlated with full length NRG1 levels in the SCZ cohort (r = –0.926, p = 0.008). In the hippocampus we found significantly lower levels of a soluble 50 kDa NRG1 fragment in the two affected groups compared the control cohort (Bonferroni test, p = 0.0018). We also examined the relationship of specific symptomatology criteria with measures of NRG1 cleavage using the Bipolar Inventory of Signs and Symptoms Scale (BISS) and the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Our results showed a positive correlation between ADAM19 and psychosis (r = 0.595 p = 0.019); PS1 and mania (r = 0.535, p = 0.040); PS1 and depression (r = 0.567, p = 0.027) in BA9, and BACE1 with anxiety (r = 0.608, p = 0.03) in the hippocampus. Conclusion/Significance Our preliminary findings suggest region-specific alterations in NRG1 cleavage in SCZ and BPD patients. These changes may be associated with specific symptoms in these psychiatric disorders.
Pica-associated cerebral edema in an adult

Acute cerebral edema due to lead intoxication is an unusual presentation in an adult. Here we describe an adult with pica presenting with severe encephalopathy due to extremely high lead levels (>200 μg/dl) with marked cerebral edema and mild hyperammonemia. Rapid initiation of chelation therapy led to a reduction in serum lead and ammonia levels and a resolution of the cerebral edema and encephalopathy, suggesting a close relationship between lead toxicity and hepatic dysfunction.
FAULT RESILIENCY OF CAYLEY GRAPHS GENERATED BY TRANSPOSITIONS

The star graph Sn, proposed by [1], has many advantages over the n-cube. It is shown in [2] that when a large number of vertices are deleted from Sn, the resulting graph can have at most two components, one of which is small. In this paper, we show that Cayley graphs generated by transpositions have this property.
Clinical and immunologic evaluation of trimellitic anhydride- and phthalic anhydride-exposed workers using a questionnaire with comparative analysis of enzyme-linked immunosorbent and radioimmunoassay studies

Twenty workers exposed to trimellitic anhydride (TMA) powder and phthalic anhydride (PA) fumes concurrently were evaluated by questionnaire and serum antibody studies. The study group was divided into high- and low-exposure groups on the basis of job descriptions and intensity of daily exposure. The questionnaire, which was designed to identify symptoms compatible with TMA-associated rhinitis, asthma, later respiratory systemic syndrome, and irritant responses, was administered to 18 of 20 workers. Total antibody binding was determined by the ammonium sulfate assay, and specific IgG and IgE binding was measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to both PA-human serum albumin (PA-HSA) and TMA-human serum albumin (TM-HSA) conjugates. Specific IgE to TM-HSA was measured with the polystyrene-tube radioimmunoassay (PTRIA). The questionnaire identified nonirritant, immunologic symptoms caused by TMA primarily in the high-exposure group. Specific IgG, IgE, and total antibody binding to TM-HSA and PA-HSA were found exclusively in the high-exposure workers. One worker was identified with PA-associated rhinitis, high total antibody binding, and specific IgG and IgE to PA-HSA by means of the ELISA. The ELISA was as sensitive as the PTRIA in detecting the presence of specific IgE to TM-HSA. The present study demonstrates that an itemized questionnaire, combined with ELISA IgG and IgE determinations, may be a sensitive method for identifying workers who have or are at risk for developing TMA-induced respiratory symptoms.
Measurement of phosphorus following 32P cerenkov counting

Abstract A procedure for the determination of 32P and quantitative phosphorus has been described. Following 32P Cerenkov counting the phosphorus content is measured by reducing the phosphomolybdate to a complex measured at 820 A. The convenience, accuracy, and flexibility of this scheme make it a useful laboratory procedure.
Alterations in the serotonin release response in mechanically injured platelets

Abstract Exposure of human platelets to mechanical forces in the Fleisch Hemoresistometer resulted in marked inhibition of platelet adhesiveness, aggregation and serotonin uptake, an increase in Platelet Factor 3 activity and Platelet Factor 4 release, and severe ultrastructural damage in previous experiments (2,3,22,23). However, serotonin release was minimal (