cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Single-cell RNA sequencing to study vascular diversity and function.

Purpose of review Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) can capture the transcriptional profile of thousands of individual cells concurrently from complex tissues and with remarkable resolution. Either with the goal of seeking information about distinct cell subtypes or responses to a stimulus, the approach has provided robust information and promoted impressive advances in cardiovascular research. The goal of this review is to highlight strategies and approaches to leverage this technology and bypass potential caveats related to evaluation of the vascular cells. Recent findings As the most recent technological development, details associated with experimental strategies, analysis, and interpretation of scRNA-seq data are still being discussed and scrutinized by investigators across the vascular field. Compilation of this information is valuable for those using the technology but particularly important to those about to start utilizing scRNA-seq to seek transcriptome information of vascular cells. Summary As our field progresses to catalog transcriptomes from distinct vascular beds, it is undeniable that scRNA-seq technology is here to stay. Sharing approaches to improve the quality of cell dissociation procedures, analysis, and a consensus of best practices is critical as information from this powerful experimental platform continues to emerge.
Blastomycosis in 64 Wisconsin Children: Unanticipated Infection Risk and Severity in Urban Residents.

BACKGROUND Blastomycosis, an endemic mycosis of immunocompetent individuals, is typically seen after exposure to waterways within rural wooded regions. It is not considered a disease of urban environments. Infection can be solely pneumonic or disseminate to skin, bone or central nervous system. Unknown factors influence disease acquisition and severity in children. METHODS We analyzed acquisition risks and disease characteristics of blastomycosis in children seen at a tertiary care center from 1998 to 2018 to identify potential exposure sources, measure disease severity and assess the effect of race upon disease severity. RESULTS Of 64 infected children, mean age was 12.9 years, with median time to diagnosis 38.5 days. About 72% were male, 38% resided in urban counties and 50% had typical environmental exposure. Isolated pulmonary infection occurred in 33 (52%). The remainder had evidence of dissemination to skin (N = 13), bone (N = 16; 7 clinically silent) and cranium (N = 7; 3 clinically silent). Infection was moderate/severe in 19 (30%). Two children (3%) died. About 79% of children with moderate/severe disease (P = 0.008) and 71% of urban children (P = 0.007) lacked typical environmental exposure. Comparing children from urban counties to other residences, 63% versus 5% were black (P < 0.001) and 71% versus 35% developed extrapulmonary dissemination (P = 0.006). Moderate/severe disease was seen in 7/17 (42%) black children but only 12/47 (26%) children of other races (P = 0.23). CONCLUSIONS Blastomycosis, can be endemic in urban children in the absence of typical exposure history, have frequent, sometimes clinically silent, extrapulmonary dissemination and possibly produces more severe disease in black children.
Isolating steps instead of learners: Use of deliberate practice and validity evidence in coronavirus disease (COVID)-era procedural assessment.

Abstract Background In surgical training, assessment tools based on strong validity evidence allow for standardized evaluation despite changing external circumstances. At a large academic institution, surgical interns undergo a multimodal curriculum for central line placement that uses a 31-item binary assessment at the start of each academic year. This study evaluated this practice within increased in-person learning restrictions. We hypothesized that external constraints would not affect resident performance nor assessment due to a robust curriculum and assessment checklist. Methods From 2018 to 2020, 81 residents completed central line training and assessment. In 2020, this curriculum was modified to conform to in-person restrictions and social distancing guidelines. Resident score reports were analyzed using multivariate analyses to compare performance, objective scoring parameters, and subjective assessments among “precoronavirus disease” years (2018 and 2019) and 2020. Results There were no significant differences in average scores or objective pass rates over 3 years. Significant differences between 2020 and precoronavirus disease years occurred in subjective pass rates and in first-time success for 4 checklist items: patient positioning, draping, sterile ultrasound probe cover placement, and needle positioning before venipuncture. Conclusion Modifications to procedural training within current restrictions did not adversely affect residents’ overall performance. However, our data suggest that in 2020, expert trainers may not have ensured learner acquisition of automated procedural steps. Additionally, although 2020 raters could have been influenced by logistical barriers leading to more lenient grading, the assessment tool ensured training and assessment integrity.
Codimension One Foliations

Let F be a transversally oriented foliation of codimension one on (Mn+1, gM). Let Z ∈ ΓL⊥ be a unit vector field and ν ∈ Ω1(M) the dual form, defined by $$ \nu (Y) = {g_M}(Z,Y)\,{\text{for}}\,Y \in \Gamma TM $$ .
Actin Cytoskeleton Contributes to the Elastic Modulus of Embryonic Tendon During Early Development

Tendon injuries are common and heal poorly. Strategies to regenerate or replace injured tendons are challenged by an incomplete understanding of normal tendon development. Our previous study showed that embryonic tendon elastic modulus increases as a function of developmental stage. Inhibition of enzymatic collagen crosslink formation abrogated increases in tendon elastic modulus at late developmental stages, but did not affect increases in elastic modulus of early stage embryonic tendons. Here, we aimed to identify potential contributors to the mechanical properties of these early stage embryonic tendons. We characterized tendon progenitor cells in early stage embryonic tendons, and the influence of actin cytoskeleton disruption on tissue elastic modulus. Cells were closely packed in embryonic tendons, and did not change in density during early development. We observed an organized network of actin filaments that seemed contiguous between adjacent cells. The actin filaments exhibited a crimp pattern with a period and amplitude that matched the crimp of collagen fibers at each developmental stage. Chemical disruption of the actin cytoskeleton decreased tendon tissue elastic modulus, measured by atomic force microscopy. Our results demonstrate that early developmental stage embryonic tendons possess a well organized actin cytoskeleton network that contributes significantly to tendon tissue mechanical properties.
Nonlinear dynamic shape and appearance models for facial motion tracking

We present a framework for tracking large facial deformations using nonlinear dynamic shape and appearance model based upon local motion estimation. Local facial deformation estimation based on a given single template fails to track large facial deformations due to significant appearance variations. A nonlinear generative model that uses low dimensional manifold representation provides adaptive facial appearance templates depending upon the movement of the facial motion state and the expression type. The proposed model provides a generative model for Bayesian tracking of facial motions using particle filtering with simultaneous estimation of the expression type. We estimate the geometric transformation and the global deformation using the generative model. The appearance templates from the global model then estimate local deformation based on thin-plate spline parameters.
Narrow terahertz attenuation signatures in Bacillus thuringiensis.

Terahertz absorption signatures from culture-cultivated Bacillus thuringiensis were measured with a THz photomixing spectrometer operating from 400 to 1200 GHz. We observe two distinct signatures centered at ∼955 and 1015 GHz, and attribute them to the optically coupled particle vibrational resonance (surface phonon-polariton) of Bacillus spores. This demonstrates the potential of the THz attenuation signatures as “fingerprints” for label-free biomolecular detection. (© 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Computational experience of implementing a distributed asynchronous algorithm with stochastic delays in routing networks

A distributed asynchronous algorithm that solves an optimal routing for a network that connects various US cities is considered. The communication delays among the processors are assumed to be stochastic with Markovian character. Results of the extensive simulation that we implemented assert the practical applicability of distributed asynchronous algorithms with stochastic delays. Comparison results for varying the probability distribution of these delays are provided. The impact of varying the communication delay bound and the stepsize is also assessed. >
Middle-Income Families in the Economic Downturn: Challenges and Management Strategies over Time

The "Great Recession" that began in 2007 has hurt many families across the United States, yet most research has examined its impact on those already considered poor or working poor. However, this recession has affected middle-income families, whose experiences with economic challenge have seldom been looked at in any detail. Such families have recently been called "the new poor," "the missing middle," and "families in the middle." One in seven American children under age 18 (10.5 million) has an unemployed parent as a result of this recession, and because economic mobility for children in the U.S. is affected by their parents' earning capacities, these children's educational and employment futures may be permanently constrained. The research presented here, which is informed by Weberian stratification theory and capital theories, is based on a small longitudinal subset of a larger, two-country, multi- city, mixed-methods study. Two waves of in-person interviews between spring 2008 and late fall 2009, revealed how families experienced the economic downturn, and the management strategies that parents used to try to counter its negative effects. Parents were moderately able to provide financially for their children's daily needs and support children's current school activities, despite income and job challenges and losses, but less able to continue to develop children's future-enhancing capital.
Image coding with the wavelet transform

A introduction to image coding and compression based on the wavelet transform is presented. Fundamentals of the discrete wavelet transform and algorithms for its implementation are reviewed. Examples of wavelet decomposition and reconstruction of images under several coding conditions are given for two-dimensional satellite altimetry data.
A Comprehensive Analysis Of The Efficacy Of Non-Cognitive Measures: Predicting Academic Success In A Historically Black University In South Texas

Universities have long used standardized American College Tests (ACT), Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT), and high school Grade Point Averages (HS GPA) for academic admission requirements. The current study of 127 minority college students in a Historically Black University in South Texas assesses an alternative measure, the Non-Cognitive Questionnaire developed by William Sedlacek. It is also important to test the validity of these standards for graduation success. As part of the process for residence hall placement at the Historically Black University, each participant completed a Non-Cognitive Questionnaire (NCQ) (Schauer, 2007). Preliminary indications provide neither a clear cut distinction nor a strong probability of success based on ACT or SAT scores among minority college students. High school GPA appears to be the best predictor of college graduation success among academic admission requirements in a Historically Black University. The NCQ appears to be a weak predictive tool in the success rates of minority students in the current study. Further study is required in the child developmental years of educational training.
The GTPase Rac1 selectively regulates Salmonella invasion at the apical plasma membrane of polarized epithelial cells

The bacterial pathogen Salmonella typhimurium colonizes its animal hosts by inducing its internalization into intestinal epithelial cells. This process requires reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton of the apical plasma membrane into elaborate membrane ruffles that engulf the bacteria. Members of the Ρ family of small GTPases are critical regulators of actin structure, and in nonpolarized cells, the GTPase Cdc42 has been shown to modulate Salmonella entry. Because the actin architecture of epithelial cells is organized differently from that of nonpolarized cells, we examined the role of two ‘Rgr; family GTPases, Cdc42 and Rac1, in invasion of polarized monolayers of MDCK cells by S. typhimurium. Surprisingly, we found that endogenous Rac1, but not Cdc42, was activated during bacterial entry at the apical pole, and that this activation required the bacterial effector protein SopE. Furthermore, expression of dominant inhibitory Rac1 but not Cdc42 significantly inhibited apical internalization of Salmonella, indicating that Rac1 activation is integral to the bacterial entry process. In contrast, during basolateral internalization, both Cdc42 and Rac1 were activated; however, neither GTPase was required for entry. These findings, which differ significantly from previous observations in nonpolarized cells, indicate that the host cell signaling pathways activated by bacterial pathogens may vary with cell type, and in epithelial tissues may further differ between plasma membrane domains.
Ruthenium: Organometallic Chemistry

In the slightly more than half a century that the organometallic chemistry of ruthenium has had time to develop, it has become clear that the metal's position as the ‘middle child’ of the Group 8 metals is richly reflected in its organometallic derivatives. That is, despite many similarities in the compounds of the iron–ruthenium–osmium triad, addition and elimination reactions of ruthenium, for example, are slower than those of iron but are more facile than those of osmium. Similarly, complexes with hydride and alkyl bonds are generally more stable for ruthenium than for iron, but the ruthenium compounds are often unstable or highly fluxional compared to analogous osmium species. Carbonyl cluster complexes are an important feature of organoruthenium chemistry, and mixed-ligand carbonyl species with high nuclearity are known, in some cases with more than 10 ruthenium atoms. Interstitial carbides and nitrides are often encountered in ruthenium clusters, and carbonyl hydrides are of interest as hydroformylation catalysts (conversion of alkenes to aldehydes). The cyclopentadienyl ligand is found extensively throughout organoruthenium chemistry, and with a decomposition temperature around 600°C, the sandwich complex ruthenocene Ru(C5H5)2 is among the most stable organometallic compounds known. The stability of ruthenocene and its derivatives allow them to be incorporated as labels into biomolecules such as peptides. Ruthenocene derivatives have also been studied as potential second-order nonlinear optical materials, and they have played a central role in the development of 30 valence electron triple-decker cations of the iron group. The high ligand field stabilization of RuII enables combinations of π-acceptor ligands together with even the hardest σ-donors, such as carbonate, sulfate, or nitrate, and hence RuII carbonyl and phosphine complexes are known with myriad coligand combinations having O, N, or S binding functionalities. In particular, the ability of the (η-arene)Ru moiety to bind N- and O-ligands has been used to complex various amines, imines, Schiff bases, and amino acids to generate diastereomeric salts, which can serve as chiral catalysts; they are valuable in stereoselective organic syntheses and in the production of biologically active compounds. Keywords: ruthenium; organometallic; ruthenocene; cluster complex; carbonyl complex; catalysis
Analysis of trial data for infliximab and golimumab: baseline C-reactive protein level and prediction of therapeutic response in patients with psoriatic arthritis.

Objective Anti–tumor necrosis factor medications have demonstrated good efficacy in treating psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Clinical responses at the primary end point in recent clinical trials of golimumab in PsA subjects yielded lower American College of Rheumatology 20% criteria for improvement (ACR20) responses than those seen in the Infliximab Multinational Psoriatic Arthritis Controlled Trial 2 infliximab study. However, baseline C-reactive protein (CRP) levels of PsA subjects enrolled in these trials differed significantly. We hypothesized that baseline CRP levels predict the observed differing clinical response rates at the primary end point. Methods Combining the data from the infliximab and golimumab trials, we stratified the data by baseline CRP levels and then correlated these cohorts with response to treatment, specifically the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index and the ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70 responses. Results The mean baseline CRP level in the infliximab trial was 1.9 mg/dl versus 1.4 mg/dl in the golimumab trial. Only 23% of golimumab subjects had a CRP level ≥1.7 mg/dl versus 35% of infliximab subjects (P = 0.0023). All subjects with a CRP level ≥1.7 mg/dl at baseline achieved higher ACR20, ACR50, ACR70 response rates (56%, 36%, and 18%, respectively) at the primary end point of 14 weeks in the infliximab and golimumab clinical trials than any subjects with a CRP level <1.7 mg/dl (48%, 28%, and 13%, respectively [P = 0.045, P = 0.027, and P = 0.089, respectively]). Conclusion These results demonstrate that an increased baseline CRP level predicted improved therapeutic response at the primary end point for subjects treated with both golimumab and infliximab. To allow for comparison between future drug development studies and meta-analyses, baseline CRP levels should be factored into the multivariate analysis.
Preventing transition to turbulence using streamwise traveling waves: theoretical analysis

We assess the efficacy of a zero-net-mass-flux blowing and suction in the form of streamwise traveling waves for controlling the onset of turbulence in a channel flow. For small amplitude actuation along the walls, we utilize perturbation analysis to determine modifications in the base flow and to examine the resulting net power balance. Sensitivity of the velocity fluctuations around this base flow is then employed as a basis for selection of traveling wave parameters. Our simulation-free approach reveals that, relative to the uncontrolled flow, the velocity fluctuations around the upstream traveling waves at best exhibit similar sensitivity to background disturbances. In contrast, the downstream traveling waves with properly designed speed and frequency can significantly reduce sensitivity which makes them well-suited for preventing transition. These theoretical predictions are facilitated by perturbation analysis (in the wave amplitude) of the linearized Navier-Stokes equations, and they are verified using full-scale simulations of the nonlinear flow dynamics in companion paper, [1].
Rapid Internet development in China: A discussion of opportunities and constraints on future growth

China has exhibited fast Internet growth. The number of Internet users in China doubled every six months in the last two years. What accounts for such a rapid adoption of the Internet in China? What are the constraints and opportunities? This article describes the facilitating roles played by the large pool of Information Technology (IT) personnel, fast diffusion of personal computers, telecom infrastructure, and digital networks, and the active foreign involvements. At the same time, the article identifies a number of factors such as slow speed, high costs, murky regulations, imbalanced development, and absence of credit systems, limiting the current growth. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Assessment of rotation thromboelastometry (ROTEM) parameters in patients with multiple myeloma at diagnosis

Abstract Introduction Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) have an increased risk of thromboembolic events (TEE). Due to the complex nature of the prothrombotic state in MM, no single laboratory test has been designed to identify patients with the highest risk of developing TEE. Hence, this study is intended to assess the feasibility of using global hemostasis test rotation thromboelastometry (ROTEM) in MM patients to identify the presence of changes indicating hypercoagulability. Materials and Methods The study included 26 patients with MM at the time of diagnosis and 20 healthy volunteers. Clotting time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), alpha angle (α), maximum clot firmness (MCF) and maximum lysis (ML) were among the most important parameters recorded during the NATEM, INTEM, EXTEM, FIBTEM and APTEM tests. Results For the NATEM test, CT and CFT readings were markedly lower in MM patients than in controls (524 s v. 753 s; p = 0.0006 and 136 s v. 242 s; p = 0.02 respectively). However, no marked differences concerning these parameters were observed in the INTEM, EXTEM, FIBTEN or APTEM tests. α-angle values were significantly higher for MM samples according to the NATEM, EXTEM, FIBTEM and APTEM tests (64° v. 48.5°, p = 0.02; 77° v. 74°, p = 0.02; 80° v.69.5°, p = 0.00007; 77° v. 74°, p = 0.01 respectively). MCF readings were significantly higher in the FIBTEM test (22 mm v. 15.5 mm, p = 0.0003) in MM patients. Also, the NATEM test revealed a trend toward higher MCF values in MM samples (56 mm v. 49.5 mm, p = 0.055). No marked differences were seen in the INTEM, EXTEM and APTEM tests. ML readings were markedly lower (0 % v. 4.5 %, p = 0.0008) in MM samples than in controls according to the FIBTEM test. The studied clot lysis parameters did not differ markedly between analyzed groups in other tests. Marked negative correlations were noted between IgG concentration and CT (EXTEM, FIBTEM) and CFT (INTEM), as well as a significant positive correlation between IgG concentration and MCF (INTEM, FIBTEM) and α (INTEM) in MM IgG patients. Conclusions Our results suggest that patients with MM display changes in ROTEM tests at the time of diagnosis that may indicate a prothrombotic state.
The forward muon detector of the CMS experiment

Abstract We describe the forward muon detector of the CMS experiment at the LHC accelerator. The CMS forward muon detector is composed of 4 independent stations, each station being made of a mosaic of six-layer cathode strip chambers. Cathode strip chambers are multiwire proportional chambers with a cathode segmented in strips to provide a precise measurement of the coordinate across the strip direction. The forward muon detector has to be able to measure hits along muon tracks with a precision of 75–150 μm per station as well as providing an accurate time tag to be used by the first level trigger. The forward muon detector will cover an area of more than 1000 m 2 representing one of the largest system of proportional chambers ever built. We also present some results obtained using muon test beams with some cathode strip chamber prototypes.
Inhibition of limb chondrogenesis by fibronectin.

Abstract This study compares the chondrogenic capacity of high density cultures prepared from either the develop-mentally younger, distal region or more advanced proximal region of stage 23/24 limb mesenchyme in high density cultures. Distal cultures undergo extensive chondrogenesis whether in F 12 medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum, 5% fetal calf serum, or fibronectin. On the other hand, proximal cultures fail to undergo chondrogenesis in medium containing 10% fetal calf serum or fibronectin, but do form cartilage in medium containing a decreased serum concentration or no serum. Furthermore, if the cells are cultured at low densities in native type I collagen gels, proximal cells have a reduced chondrogenic capacity in the presence of fibronectin, while chondrogenesis by distal cells is unaffected by the addition of fibronectin. The results demonstrate that proximal and distal cells respond differentially to serum and to fibronectin, and they suggest that the response of the cell to prevalent components of the extracellular matrix might change with development.
Effect on Rat Progeny of Daily Administration of Meprobamate during Pregnancy and Lactation

THE work recorded here was undertaken to determine whether the daily administration of meprobamate to female rats from the onset of their pregnancies until the weaning of their young would affect physical growth, emotionality or learning ability of the offspring. Wistar female litter mates were assigned to each of four treatment groups: Group 1 received a placebo; Group 2, meprobamate 32 mg/kg/day; Group 3, meprobamate 64 mg/kg/day; and Group 4, meprobamate 128 mg/kg/day. The rats were mated and treatment commenced on the finding of spermatozoa or a vaginal plug and continued through the 21–22 days of pregnancy and for 28 days post partum, at which time the pups were weaned. A 5 per cent aqueous solution of gum acacia was used as a placebo and as the meprobamate vehicle. Administration was by stomach tube twice a day and the volume was adjusted so that each rat received 1 ml. of fluid per 200 g body-weight.
Effects of androgens on body weight, feeding, and courtship behavior in the pigeon

Abstract Adult male pigeons, some intact and some castrated in adulthood, were housed in individual cages kept in an isolated room with temperature and lighting controlled. Weekly measurements were made of ad lib. food intake and body weight for 4 mo after surgery. Castration was followed by a significant depression in body weight and by initially depressed but then progressively enhanced feeding. Food deprivation elicited an increase in food intake proportional to body weight loss, but castrates consumed less food at 100%, 90%, and 80% of ad lib. feeding weight than either intact birds or castrates treated daily with testosterone propionate (TP). Castrates gained weight and ate more than controls in response to daily treatments (im) with TP (6 mg/400 g) or 5a-dihydrotestosterone (DHT, 6 mg/400 g), while androstenedione (15 mg/400 g) and androsterone (15 mg/400 g) were ineffective. Administration of 100 mg DHT (sc) to castrates produced a significant enhancement of body weight without elevating the level of food intake. The biological potency of these diverse androgens on male courtship behavior was reciprocal to that for weight-promoting potency. The results suggest that the structural requirements of the androgen molecule for promoting body weight differ from those for stimulating sexual behavior.
When the Bells Tolled for Lincoln: Southern Reaction to the Assassination

In the morning hours of 15 April 1865, tolling bells in Washington declared the devastating news of Lincoln's death. For the first time in the nation's history a president had been assassinated. As news of the assassination reached the conquered South, church bells in the former Confederacy joined in the pealing. From the President's election through the end of the Civil War, Southerners had blamed Lincoln for their misfortune and ultimate downfall. Yet in the days after the assassination, Confederates gladdened by Lincoln's death feared Northern reprisals and dared not express their feelings openly. As word spread across the South, however, many ex-Confederates turned to their diaries and journals, where they poured out their fears and wrath with impunity and without restraint. After more than four years researching and writing, Carolyn L. Harrell has produced a unique and fascinating analysis of Southerners' reactions to the death of Abraham Lincoln.
Attentional release in the saccadic gap effect.

Can a release of attention from fixation help explain the saccadic ‘gap effect’, the shortening of saccadic latency (SL) when the fixation spot is extinguished just before saccade target onset? Practiced observers generated SLs and button-presses to one of four 10 eccentric targets in overlap (fixation spot stays on), gap0 (fixation offsets at target onset), and gap200 conditions; in gap200, the fixation spot was removed, dimmed, expanded, or brightened 200 ms before target onset. Our data excluded speed-accuracy tradeoffs, express saccades, stimulus salience, and oculomotor readiness, while fixation offset and general warning had minor effects, leaving attention release as the default explanation. Supporting this notion, finger-press reactions to foveal probe dots presented after the fixation spot was brightened (to hold attention) were faster than those made after the spot was removed (to release attention). Varying the time from gap onset to the probe dot mapped out the time-course of the putative attentional release, which takes �140 ms.
An on-line tutorial for collaborative problem solving and software development

A theoretical framework for a learning environment with intelligent tutoring capabilities in the domain of collaborative software development is presented. The system will implement and further define the Cognitive Collaborative Model (CCM) with applications to problem solving and program development as proposed in [4]. Results of prior experiments on the CCM model [3] further inform the theoretical, functional, and technical development of this learning environment. A pilot evaluation of a skeletal version of the tool is also proposed.
Critical Illness in Pregnancy: An Analysis of 20 Patients Admitted to a Medical Intensive Care Unit

There is a paucity of literature with regard to the need for intensive care treatment of critically ill obstetric patients. In this review, the findings from 20 obstetric patients admitted to a medical ICU (MICU) over a 40-month period were analyzed. Demographics, preexistent medical problems, diagnoses, days in the hospital and the MICU, need for mechanical ventilation, maternal and fetal mortality, and invasive procedures were reviewed. (For comparison, a limited analysis of nonobstetric admissions to the MICU over the same time period were included.) Fifty percent (10) of the patients had preexisting medical problems. Maternal mortality was 20 percent (4 patients), with a fetal mortality of 35 percent (7). In all of the maternal deaths, adult respiratory distress syndrome was present. Although mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation did not differ between the obstetric and nonobstetric patients, pulmonary artery and arterial catheters were placed at a higher rate in the obstetric patients. Critically ill obstetric patients, although younger than general MICU patients, appear to have as great a risk of dying of their critical illness and have a high infant mortality.
Versatile four‐probe ac conductivity measurement system

The design of a four‐probe ac conductivity measurement system is described. The system is capable of making precision conductance measurements from 10−8 to 10−5 S at 20 to 200 Hz. Driven coaxial shields and a controlled current source are utilized to eliminate phase shift/attenuation errors, and make the measurement of conductances on a variety of materials a routine procedure requiring a minimum of operator intervention.
Who is watching the watchers? The challenge of observing peer interactions on elementary school playgrounds

This report discusses a multisite program evaluation in elementary schools that incorporated playground observations to document student behavior. A number of challenges are discussed, some of which were consistent with observer reactivity effects long documented in the literature, while others we believe were unique to this particular setting and provide a cautionary tale for those collecting school-based observation data.
Ultrafast electron transfer dynamics in ruthenium polypyridyl complexes with a π-conjugated ligand.

The excited-state dynamics of two mixed-ligand mononuclear ruthenium(II) complexes, [(bpy)2RuLDQ]4+ (where bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine, LDQ = 1-[4-(4′-methyl)-2,2′-bipyridyl)]-2-[4-(4′-N,N′-tetramethylene-2,2′-bipyridinium]) and [(bpy)2RuL]2+ (where L = 1, 2-bis[4-(4′-methyl)-2,2′-bipyridyl)]ethene), were investigated by femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. Photoexcitation of the [(bpy)2RuLDQ]4+ complex at three separate pump wavelengths leads to a common charge-separated state consisting of Ru3+ and an excited electron delocalized over the extended π-system centered on the ethenyl moiety of the LDQ ligand. In [(bpy)2RuL]2+, the excited electron is unable to delocalize throughout the π system and remains on the bipyridyl end of ligand L closest to the ruthenium atom. Vibrational cooling in the charge-separated state of [(bpy)2RuLDQ]4+ indicates that this state is formed faster than excess energy can be dispersed to the solvent and orders of magnitude more rapidly than in previously studied ruthenium-d...
Eyeglasses and gender stereotypes.

ABSTRACTUnder the guise of forming impressions of a job applicant in a hiring interview, subjects rated a videotaped male or female stimulus person (SP) on several gender stereotypical and task relevant traits. In one condition, the SP's wore eyeglasses, and in the other condition they did not. Eyeg
Larval development of the deep-water wood boring bivalve, Xylophaga atlantica richards (Mollusca, bivalvia, pholadidae)

Abstract Adult Xylophaga atlantica obtained from lobster pots set at a depth of 100m released gametes in the laboratory when the water temperature was raised from 4 to 9 °C. Sperm were rarely observed but spawned eggs invariably developed, suggesting internal fertilization. Mean egg diameter was 45μm; eggs were round, yellow to light brown. Larvae reared at 9 and 14°C and 31 % salinity were free swimming in 30-40 hours and 20–24 hours respectively. Swimming larvae held in tall culture vessels congregated in a horizontal band where the temperature was 11–13 °C. Straight-hinge veligers developed in 4 days and averaged 62 μm in length. The umbo veligers ranged from 150 to 255 μmin length and had a very large characteristic velum. Pediveligers appeared 50days after fertilization and averaged 280 x 268 μm in length and height, respectively. They were smooth, inequivalved, and had a well developed hinge. The foot had a tuft of long cilia at the tip. The first signs of metamorphosis were observed on the 57th day...
A pixel-based regularization approach to inverse lithography

Inverse lithography attempts to synthesize the input mask which leads to the desired output wafer pattern by inverting the forward model from mask to wafer. In this article, we extend our earlier framework for image prewarping to solve the mask design problem for coherent, incoherent, and partially coherent imaging systems. We also discuss the synthesis of three variants of phase shift masks (PSM); namely, attenuated (or weak) PSM, 100% transmission PSM, and strong PSM with chrome. A new two-step optimization strategy is introduced to promote the generation and placement of assist bar features. The regularization framework is extended to guarantee that the estimated PSM have only two or three (allowable) transmission values, and the aerial-image penalty term is introduced to boost the aerial image contrast and keep the side-lobes under control. Our approach uses the pixel-based mask representation, a continuous function formulation, and gradient-based iterative optimization techniques to solve the inverse problem. The continuous function formulation allows analytic calculation of the gradient in O(MNlog(MN)) operations for an MxN pattern making it practically feasible. We also present some results for coherent and incoherent imaging systems with very low k"1 values to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Effects of lithology on solution development in carbonate aquifers

Abstract Groundwater flow in karst aquifers is extremely difficult to predict because of the presence of solution-enlarged fractures and conduits in the bedrock. The location and volume of this solution development is the result of interrelated geologic, hydrologic and climatic factors. This paper examines lithologic properties which influence apparent solution rates in carbonate aquifers as indicated by weathered profiles in caverns. Rock samples collected from cavern entrances and walls in southwestern Missouri, U.S.A., were analyzed for grain size, sorting, percent quartz, percent magnesium carbonate, percent opaque minerals and percent acid-insoluble residue. Discriminant function analyses of these measurements show that grain size is the most important parameter in distinguishing the grouping of apparently resistant and non-resistant samples. Small grain size favors dissolution and strongly influences the relief of the weathered profile regardless of rock composition. Significant variability in magnesium carbonate content may also affect the apparent solution rate but to a lesser degree than grain size.
Thoracic Nodal Staging With PET Imaging With 18FDG in Patients With Bronchogenic Carcinoma

Purpose To assess the role of positron emission tomographic (PET) imaging with 18-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose ( 18 FDG) in detecting thoracic lymph node metastases in patients with bronchogenic carcinoma. Materials and methods Over a 2-year period, any patient presenting to our institution with newly diagnosed bronchogenic carcinoma who was to have thoracic nodes sampled was considered eligible. All PET studies were performed prior to nodal sampling and areas of increased uptake were mapped according to the American Thoracic Society classification. Studies were correlated with CT and pathology. Sensitivity and specificity for predicting nodal metastases was calculated. Results Forty-two patients had 62 nodal stations (40 hilar/lobar, 22 mediastinal) sampled. The sensitivity and specificity for hilar/lobar lymph node station metastases using PET imaging was 73% and 76%, respectively. With CT, the sensitivity and specificity were 27% and 86%. The sensitivity and specificity using PET imaging for mediastinal node station metastases was 92% and 100%, respectively, while with CT the figures were 58% and 80%. The sensitivity and specificity for combined thoracic nodal station metastases using PET imaging was 83% and 82%, respectively, while with CT it was 43% and 85%. There was a strong statistical relationship between positive PET imaging and lymph node abnormalities. Conclusions 18 FDG-PET imaging is accurate in detecting thoracic lymph node metastases in patients with bronchogenic carcinoma. Normal results of PET studies virtually preclude the need for mediastinal nodal sampling prior to surgery, whereas abnormal results of studies most likely represent mediastinal metastases. Treatment can be based on the extent of disease suggested by PET imaging.
Using Dialogic Reading as Professional Development to Improve Students’ English and Spanish Vocabulary

Professional development was conducted to assess the effects of dialogic reading (DR) on child outcomes related to vocabulary development in English and Spanish. Six teachers and 72 children enrolled in a state-funded public universal prekindergarten program, partnering with higher education, participated in the study. The content of the professional development consisted of research-based DR strategies and vocabulary for English-only, bilingual, and Spanish-dominant speakers. The format included in-service training workshops, consultations, and reflections within community of practice meetings. The results showed that the intervention led to an increase in vocabulary over time within and across language groups. Regardless of teacher experience and educational training, vocabulary for all prekindergarten children improved. Suggestions are offered for replicating DR techniques in early care and development settings. Findings add to the importance of providing instruction in vocabulary for low socioeconomic...
FORMATION AND EVOLUTION OF A MULTI-THREADED SOLAR PROMINENCE

We investigate the process of formation and subsequent evolution of prominence plasma in a filament channel and its overlying arcade. We construct a three-dimensional time-dependent model of a filament-channel prominence suitable to be compared with observations. We combine this magnetic field structure with one-dimensional independent simulations of many flux tubes. The magnetic structure is a three-dimensional sheared double arcade, and the thermal non-equilibrium process governs the plasma evolution. We have found that the condensations in the corona can be divided into two populations: threads and blobs. Threads are massive condensations that linger in the field line dips. Blobs are ubiquitous small condensations that are produced throughout the filament and overlying arcade magnetic structure, and rapidly fall to the chromosphere. The total prominence mass is in agreement with observations. The threads are the principal contributors to the total mass, whereas the blob contribution is small. The motion of the threads is basically horizontal, while blobs move in all directions along the field. The peak velocities for both populations are comparable, but there is a weak tendency for the velocity to increase with the inclination, and the blobs with motion near vertical have the largest values of the velocity. We have generated synthetic images of the whole structure in an H proxy and in two EUV channels of the AIA instrument aboard SDO. These images show the plasma at cool, warm and hot temperatures. The theoretical differential emission measure of our system agrees very well with observations in the temperature range log T = 4.6-5.7. We conclude that the sheared-arcade magnetic structure and plasma dynamics fit well the abundant observational evidence.
Energy balance climate modelling: An alternative dynamic parameterization

This paper describes a dynamic parameterization for a simple global climate model that is based on the planetary boundary layer equations of horizontal motion. This new parameterization resolves many of the problems associated with other representations of the general circulation in simple climatic models. The model developed in this study accurately simulates the presently observed zonally-averaged temperature and wind field patterns. Sensitivity tests demonstrate that a model with the new dynamic parameterization meets or exceeds the performance levels of other one-dimensional energy balance global climate models. By solving many of the problems associated with the available alternative circulation parametcrizations, the new circulation representation based on the equations of motion appears to improve the quality of the popular simple climate models.
Geometry of equilibrium configurations in the Ising model

We derive microscopically precise identities for the geometry of small clusters in the equilibrium states of the two-dimensional Ising model with emphasis on near-critical phenomena.
Simulation studies of delta-ray backgrounds in a Compton-Scatter Transition Radiation Detector

Abstract In order to evaluate the response to cosmic-ray nuclei of a Compton-Scatter Transition Radiation Detector in the proposed ACCESS space-based mission, a hybrid Monte Carlo simulation using GEANT3 and an external transition radiation (TR) generator routine was constructed. This simulation was employed to study the effects of delta-ray production induced by high-energy nuclei and to maximize the ratio of TR to δ -ray background. The results demonstrate the ability of a Compton-Scatter Transition Radiation Detector to measure nuclei from boron to iron up to Lorentz factors γ ∼ 10 5 , taking into account the steeply falling power-law cosmic ray spectra.
PACS-CAD toolkit for integrating an independent CAD workstation to diagnostic workflow

Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) coupled with physician's knowledge can improve accuracy of clinical decision. However, many developed CAD software have no features to integrate its results with a picture archive and communication system (PACS). This obstacle hinders the extensive use of independent CAD results within a more streamlined diagnosis workflow. In this paper, we demonstrate a universal PACS-CAD toolkit that can seamlessly integrate independent CAD results with a clinical PACS. The PACS-CAD toolkit consisted of two versions, a DICOM Secondary Capture (DICOM-SC) version and a DICOM-IHE version to accommodate various PACS. The DICOM-SC version toolkit installed on a CAD workstation converts the screen shot of CAD results to a DICOM image file for storing in a PACS server and displaying on PACS workstations. The DICOM-IHE version toolkit follows DICOM and IHE standards using DICOM Structured Report and Post-Processing Workflow Profiles; thus, results from various CAD software can be integrated into diagnosis workflow of a PACS having DICOM and IHE-compliance and, most importantly, these quantified CAD results can be directly queried for and retrieved from within PACS for future data mining applications. The successful implementation of this toolkit can greatly ease the extensive use of various CAD results in the clinical diagnosis workflow.
Marine Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary section in southwestern South Dakota. Comment and reply

In a similar vein to what Dana posited for Hall's geosynclinal theory for the origin of mountain belts—that it presented “a theory for the origin of mountains with the origin of mountains left out” (p. 55, King, 1977)—[Terry et al. (2001)][1] promote the presence of a Cretaceous-Tertiary (K-
Pattern regulation in the embryonic chick limb: Supernumerary limb formation with anterior (non-ZPA) limb bud tissue

Abstract The formation of supernumerary limbs and limb structures was studied by juxtaposing normally nonadjacent embryonic chick limb bud tissue. A “wedge” (ectoderm and mesoderm) of anterior or mid donor right wing bud (stage 21) was inserted in a slit made in a host right limb bud (stage 21) at the same position as its position of origin or to a more posterior position. The AER of the donor tissue and host wing bud were aligned with each other. Donor tissue was grafted with its dorsalventral polarity the same as the host's limb bud or reversed to that of the host's. Depending on the position of origin of the donor limb bud tissue and the position to which it was transplanted in a host, supernumerary wings or wing structures formed. Furthermore, depending on the orientation of the graft in the host, supernumerary limbs with either left or right asymmetry developed. The results of experiments performed here are considered in light of two current models which have been used to describe supernumerary limb formation: one based on local, short-range, cell-cell interactions and the other based on long-range positional signaling via a diffusible morphogen.