cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of a Dominant Clonal Strain of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium at Separate Hospitals in Boston, Massachusetts

ABSTRACT In 1996, the dominant (43%) strain of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE; type A) at Massachusetts General Hospital was identified at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH). To characterize the epidemiology of infection with type A isolates of VRE at BWH, we collected demographic and clinical data for all patients from whom VRE were isolated from a clinical specimen through September 1996. The first clinical isolates from all BWH patients from whom VRE were isolated were typed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis ofSmaI digests of chromosomal DNA. Among patients hospitalized after the first patient at BWH infected with a type A isolate of VRE was identified, exposures were compared between patients who acquired type A isolates of VRE and those who acquired other types of VRE. Isolates from 99 patients identified to have acquired VRE were most commonly from blood (n = 27), urine (n = 19), or wounds (n = 19). Three months after the index patient arrived at BWH and at a time when ≥12 types of strains of VRE were present, type A isolates of VRE became dominant; 39 of 75 (52%) of the study cohort had acquired type A isolates of VRE. We found no association between the acquisition of type A isolates of VRE and transfer from another institution or temporal overlap by service, ward, or floor with patients known to have acquired type A isolates of VRE. By multivariate analysis, only residence in the medical intensive care unit (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4 to 107) and the receipt of two or more antibiotics per patient-day (adjusted OR, 12.2; 95% CI, 1.2 to 9.0) were associated with the acquisition of strain A. This strain of VRE, dominant at two Boston hospitals, was associated with intensity of antibiotic exposures (i.e., two or more antibiotics per patient-day). We hypothesize that this strain may have unidentified properties providing a mechanism favoring its spread and dominance over other extant isolates, and further studies are needed to define these properties.
Spokane 2012 Winter Dance Lessons from the Past—Strategies for the Future 65th Annual SRM Meeting

Spokane 2012 Winter Dance Lessons from the Past— Strategies for the Future 65th Annual SRM Meeting DOI:10.2458/azu_rangelands_v33i1_barrett
The end problem of a finite elastic cylinder pressed against a rough, rigid, sliding surface

Abstract The non-axisymmetric problem of a finite, circular, elastic cylinder, one end of which contacts a moving, rigid surface in the presence of Coulomb friction while the opposite end is constrained against in-plane displacements but subjected to a uniform normal displacement, is considered. The governing differential equations are converted to an infinite system of singular integral equations with the aid of the Papkovich-Neuber potentials and the subsequent application of multiple Fourier transformations. These are solved numerically and the components of stress and displacement at the ends of the cylinder are determined. For the frictionless case, the solution is shown to agree closely with known results. For the frictional case, stresses at the ends of the cylinder are given for two aspect ratios and several friction coefficients.
Technical and economic assessment for the production of torrefied ligno-cellulosic biomass pellets in the US

Abstract Manufacturing and trade of wood pellets in the United States (US) has seen an exponential growth in the last few years, triggered by its potential utilization in applications typically dominated by fossil fuels, such as heat, power, and combined cycle generation. This combination holds the promise of delivering a high density, high heat value fuel, making it a better substitute for coal and other fossil fuels. This combined process exists only at pilot-plant levels. Scale-up of the technology and feasibility of such projects remain largely unexplored. This research developed a techno-economic model for the production of torrefied wood pellets, considering critical production parameters, and evaluating sensitivity to changes in CAPEX (Capital Expenditure), biomass delivered costs, labor, and energy consumption of a facility, evaluated through a case-study. Results indicated that biomass delivered costs and depreciation are the most significant factors influencing production with CAPEX being the most sensitive variable due to high investments in torrefaction reactors. The selection of different torrefaction technologies, and adequate binders, may represent a major improvement in the feasibility of a project by reducing capital costs drastically. Back-calculated price for torrefied wood pellets is $261/metric ton (100,000 metric tons/year facility), and delivered price may reach $282/metric ton, a similar cost compared to regular pellets. Preliminary analysis of carbon credits as additional income may considerably increase the likeability of the business, and further enhance profitability.
Monitoring Objects in Space with the U.S. Space Surveillance Network

At present the U.S. Space Command maintains a positional catalog of more than 8000 man-made space objects. The basis of this catalog is the observational data collected by a worldwide network of radars and optical sites known collectively as the U.S. Space Surveillance Network. This paper describes the network including its capability to support large constellations of satellites. The evolution of the network from its beginnings following the launch of SPUTNIK is described. The various network componets as well as their unique contributions are viewed.
The Spiral Bands of a Hurricane: A Possible Dynamic Explanation

Abstract In this paper an attempt is made to explain the shape and behavior of the spiral bands of a hurricane. The main hypothesis is that the bands are associated with gravitational waves of finite amplitude propagating at. the interface of a high-level inversion. An external source of disturbance is postulated in the form of a fresh surge of air at the exterior region of the hurricane. It is shown that this mechanism leads to the formation of bands of the required shape. The spiral bands are therefore related to the squall lines of temperate latitudes. Two numerical examples are worked out to illustrate the proposed mechanism.
Childhood Abuse and Welfare Use

Policies aimed at reducing welfare use focus solely on adults, yet welfare users very often report experiences of childhood abuse. Such abuse is known to have long-term psychological effects and may set the stage for later welfare use. This study uses a random sample of poor women to determine how a history of childhood abuse relates to the probability of receiving cash and in-kind assistance over a five-year period. It also investigate whether childhood abuse correlates with the length of receipt among program users. Women experiencing both physical and sexual abuse during childhood were 16–25 percentage points more likely than others to use both cash and in-kind programs as adults. Conditional on program use, there was no relation of childhood abuse to the extent of program use during the study period.
Comparison between whiskers and filaments and their use in fibre-reinforced materials

Whiskers and high-strength filaments as potential reinforcing materials differ in their properties. Their applicability in fibre-reinforced composites depends on these properties. The shortness of the whiskers, the large scatter of their strength and their high price involve difficulties for their use in composites. The more advantageous geometry of continuously produced filaments, their relatively low price and their good processing qualities favour the use of quasi-endless filaments as reinforcing material. The latter holds especially for the production of rotationally symmetric shaped parts, where the 'filament-winding technique' is applied. But even parts which are not rotationally symmetric can be produced by this technique if it is used as an intermediate stage of shaping. This method has been applied to produce filament-reinforced shaped parts with plastics, light-metal, heavy-metal and glass matrices. As filamentary reinforcing materials fine steel wire is preferably used; some others are produced by the improved Taylor method. The strength values measured on the composites amount to a multiple of the strength of the matrix material and are in satisfactory agreement with theory.
Group Consensus: The Impact of Multiple Dialogues

The research results on group consensus have been ambiguous within the field of Group Support Systems (GSSs). Some research studies have shown that groups using multiple communication channels produce more ideas, and more unique ideas than groups using a single communication channel. In addition, a second set of research findings have shown that groups using GSSs report group members hold “less consensus” with the group's decision. This research studies more closely how these two characteristics; communication channel and consensus, interact. Specifically, can “less consensus” be a function of the choice of channels used in problem solving. The results show that groups using a single communication channel generate more actual consensus than groups using multiple communication channels. Furthermore, the single channel discussions provide more integrative comments and these integrative comments may help explain the difference in consensus. These results suggest that those striving for consensus from group members should consider production methods used to create the information that is to be used in the decision.
Response Surface Model Building and Multidisciplinary Optimization Using D-Optimal Designs

This paper discusses response surface methods for approximation model building and multidisciplinary design optimization. The response surface methods discussed are central composite designs, Bayesian methods and D-optimal designs. An over-determined D-optimal design is applied to a configuration design and optimization study of a wing-body, launch vehicle. Results suggest that over determined D-optimal designs may provide an efficient approach for approximation model building and for multidisciplinary design optimization.
Practice Management/Role of the Medical Director

Although the nature of ambulatory surgery has changed over the years, the ideal role of the medical director mirrors its earliest iterations, focusing on excellent customer service and high quality of care. These efforts are supported by 3 modern methods of quality management borrowed from industry: intentional process improvement, standard care pathways, and monitoring outcomes to determine the efficacy of each. These methods are critical to master in order to lead the facility and providers to the highest quality of care and service.
Prestige-worthy tourism behavior

Abstract The conferrence of prestige is often acknowledged in the leisure travel literature but rarely investigated. Based on “long interviews” and a modified grounded-theory analysis procedure, this paper investigates the underlying dimensions of travel-related prestige and the relationship of the prestige conferrer to the conferree. Relative exclusivity and personal/empathetic desirability were found to be the two underlying dimensions of prestige-worthy leisure travel. The prestige conferrence relationship was a concomitant act of observer-acknowledged desire and deferrence for the person engaged in the act of leisure travel.
Soil seed banks of two montane riparian areas: implications for restoration

Understanding the role of seed banks can be important for designing restoration projects. Using the seedling emergence method, we investigated the soil seed banks of two montane, deciduous riparian forest ecosystems of southeastern Arizona. We contrasted the seed banks and extant vegetation of Ramsey Canyon, which is the site of riparian restoration activities, with that of Garden Canyon, which has been less affected by human land uses. Fewer plant species were found at Ramsey Canyon than Garden Canyon, for both the seed bank and extant vegetation, and the vegetation at Ramsey Canyon (seed bank and extant) had consistently drier wetland indicator scores. As well, vegetation patterns within sampling zones (channel margins and adjacent riparian forests) differed between canyons. At Garden Canyon channel margins, the seed bank and extant vegetation had relatively high similarity, with herbaceous wetland perennial species dominating. Extant vegetation in the floodplain riparian forest zone at Garden Canyon had a drier wetland indicator score than the seed bank, suggesting that the floodplains are storing seeds dispersed from wetter fluvial surfaces. Vegetation patterns for Ramsey Canyon channel margins were similar to those for Garden Canyon floodplains. Vegetation patterns in the Ramsey Canyon riparian forest zone were indicative of non-flooded conditions with an abundance of upland species in the soil seed bank and extant vegetation. Channel geomorphology measurements indicated that much of the riparian forest zone at Ramsey Canyon is functionally a terrace, a condition that may be a legacy of channel erosion from historic land uses. Steep, erodible channel slopes may contribute to the low seed bank germinant density at Ramsey Canyon channel margins, and narrower flood-prone area may explain the greater terrestrialization of the vegetation in both sampling zones. We recommend testing the use of donor soils from more diverse stream reaches to restore biodiversity levels at Ramsey Canyon, following restoration activities such as channel-widening. Seed banks from Garden Canyon, for example, although predominantly consisting of herbaceous perennials, would supply species with a range of moisture tolerances, life spans, and growth forms. We also recommend that restorationists take care not to harm seed banks exposed during removal of introduced species; at Ramsey Canyon, soil seed banks were equally diverse in areas with high and low cover of the introduced Vinca major (a legacy of Ramsey Canyon land use).
Class numbers of quadratic fields, Hasse invariants of elliptic curves, and the supersingular polynomial

Abstract Using the theory of elliptic curves, we show that the class number h (− p ) of the field Q ( −p ) appears in the count of certain factors of the Legendre polynomials P m (x) ( mod p) , where p is a prime >3 and m has the form ( p − e )/ k , with k =2,3 or 4 and p≡e ( mod k) . As part of the proof we explicitly compute the Hasse invariant of the Hessian curve y 2 + αxy + y = x 3 and find an elementary expression for the supersingular polynomial ss p ( x ) whose roots are the supersingular j -invariants of elliptic curves in characteristic p . As a corollary we show that the class number h (− p ) also shows up in the factorization ( mod p) of certain Jacobi polynomials.
Laboratory evaluation of an improved electronic grain probe insect counter

An Electronic Grain Probe Insect Counter system, which incorporates modified passive grain probes, allows offsite monitoring and detection of insect pests in stored grain. An electronic count is generated whenever an insect falls through an infrared beam in the sensor head located at the bottom of the electronic grain probe. We report descriptions and laboratory evaluations of prototype electronic grain probes that were custom-made in-house (n=8) and by small-scale manufacturing (n=54). Laboratory tests, in which dead insects were dropped through a probe, were conducted to determine if electronic probes accurately count the numbers of insects that are captured. Accuracy of the manufactured electronic probes increased as the size of the test insect increased from 93.6% for the smallest insect tested (Cryptolestes ferrugineus, the rusty grain beetle) to 99.5% for the largest (Tribolium castaneum, the red flour beetle). Custom-made probes were significantly more accurate for C. ferrugineus (96.5% versus 93.6%) but there was no difference in accuracies for the larger insects. Comparisons among all probes found that probe accuracy was correlated with variation in the magnitude of the output signal from the infrared phototransistor. Thus, use of diode/phototransistor pairs with a more consistent beam or with improved beam focus may further improve probe accuracy. Good performance was obtained with the manufactured electronic probes. Tests with live insects under field conditions are needed to further evaluate the system performance.
Rayleigh distance in relation to reflection from curved surfaces

It is shown that the Rayleigh distance for a curved surface needs to be redefined to take into account curvature in the phase of the excitation. If this is done, it can become infinite for a finite reflector, thus validating the geometrical-optics design of Cassegrain subreflectors. Exceptional regions where this feature ceases to hold are indicated.
Recombinant human factor VIIa (rFVIIa) can activate factor FIX on activated platelets.

Summary. The studies reported here show that factor (F)VIIa can activate factor (F)IX on activated platelets in the absence of tissue factor. Both FIX and FIXa bind to the activated platelet surface with a Kd of 8 nM and 2 nM, respectively. With factor (F)VIIIa, FIXa binds more tightly to platelets (Kd 0.6 nM). At rFVIIa concentrations < 100 nm, no direct binding to the activated platelet surface can be detected with electrophoretic light scattering. However, in the presence of FIX, rFVIIa binding to platelets at concentrations as low as 10 nm rFVIIa can be detected. This is reflected by a decrease in the FIX Kd from 8 to 1.6 nM. When rFVIIa is added to activated platelets in the presence of both FIX and FVIIIa, the Kd for FIX decreases to 0.6, suggesting that rFVIIa activates FIX on the surface of activated platelets in the absence of tissue factor. The activation of FIX by FVIIa on activated platelets can also be demonstrated by a functional assay for FIXa. These data show that pharmacological doses of rFVIIa result in the direct activation of FIX by rFVIIa to form additional tenase complexes ultimately resulting in improved thrombin generation. These results may explain, at least in part, the mechanism of action of rFVIIa in hemorrhagic conditions seen in otherwise normal patients who develop an acquired coagulopathy due to trauma, surgery or a variety of other events in which rFVIIa has been found to be effective.
Maternal nativity status and pregnancy outcome among U.S.-born Filipinos.

Abstract Using 1979–87 Hawaii vital record data on single live births, this study compares by nativity status of the mother the maternal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of resident Filipino women. Among ethnic minorities in the United States, the pregnancy outcomes of U.S.‐born mothers have been reported to compare unfavorably to their foreign‐born counterparts. In this study, unequivocally preferential pregnancy outcome indicators were not observed for foreign‐born women. Contrary to expectations, a significant, but modest, increase in the risk of preterm delivery was found for infants of Philippines‐born mothers, along with a less favorable mean birth weight and gestational age. As a growing minority population in the United States, the atypical determinants and patterns of pregnancy outcome in this population warrants further investigation.
Symptomatic snapping knee from biceps femoris tendon subluxation: an unusual case of lateral pain in a marathon runner

Snapping biceps femoris syndrome is an uncommon cause of lateral knee pain and may be difficult to diagnose, resulting in unsuccessful surgical intervention. In this report, we present an unusual case of a 37-year-old male marathon runner with unilateral snapping knee secondary to dislocation of the long head of the biceps femoris over the fibular head during knee flexion. The pain was great enough to interfere with his ability to practice sport. Possible causes of symptomatic snapping knee include multiple intra-articular or extra-articular pathology. Biceps femoris snapping over the fibular head is a rare condition. Reported causes include an anomalous insertion of the tendon into the tibia, trauma, and fibular-head abnormality. However, none of those conditions accounted for his symptoms. Failing conservative treatment, the patient underwent surgery for partial resection of the fibular head, with subsequent sudden resolution of symptoms and return to sport. Accurate knowledge and management of this rare condition is mandatory to avoid inappropriate therapy and unnecessary surgical procedures.
Combined effect of sublethal exposure to cotton expressing the endotoxin protein of Bacillus thuringiensis and natural enemies on survival of bollworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae

The interactions of natural enemies and transgenic cotton expressing the endotoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner variety kurstaki (BTK cotton) on bollworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), survival were studied. Survival of bollworm larvae was measured on cotton not expressing endotoxin (non-BTK cotton) in field plots with 4 different densities of natural enemies. Larvae were conditioned on BTK or non-BTK cotton for 1, 2, or 4 d before infestation of the non-BTK cotton in the field plots. Environments with varying densities of natural enemies was a significant factor affecting bollworm survival at all postinfestations periods. Larval mortality increased with increased density of natural enemies. Tissue genotype on which bollworm larvae were predisposed significantly affected larval survival in environments with low, medium, and high density of natural enemies at 24, 96, and 48 h postinfestation, respectively. Larvae that were conditioned on BTK cotton tended to survive at lower rates than larvae conditioned on non-BTK cotton. Length of exposure was a significant factor affecting larval survival at all postinfestation time intervals in a cage environment with no natural enemies. In the absence of natural enemies, larval survival was correlated positively with length of exposure. Larvae that were conditioned for 4-d before field infestation survived at significantly higher rates than larvae that were conditioned for 1 and 2 d. Significant interactions between the effects of tissue genotype and length of exposure on larval survival were detected by analysis of variance in the environment with low densities of natural enemies at 48 and 96 h postinfestation. Significant linear regression equations that described larval survival as a function of densities of natural enemies were detected for larvae conditioned on BTK cotton for 1 d at 96 h and 4 d at 48 h postinfestation. Similar equations were found to be significant for larvae conditioned on non-BTK cotton for 2 d at 48 and 96 h postinfestation and for larvae conditioned for 4 d at all postinfestation periods.
Preparing Science Teachers in an Era of Reform: Practitioners' Perspectives of Methods Courses

With recent national calls for the reform of science education have come standards that delineate not only science content but also assessment, pedagogy, and teachers’ professional development. If teachers must teach science differently, then teacher preparation must change. This study asked 31 inservice secondary science teachers to complete a survey about topics for inclusion in a secondary science methods course. Respondents ranked a list of prespecified topics and had an opportunity to suggest other topics for inclusion in the course. Results showed that the majority of prespecified potential topics were judged important enough by these teachers to warrant inclusion in a methods course, though no individual added topic appeared on more than two surveys. Results demonstrate that these teachers believe teaching many of the traditional topics in science methods courses is still needed. In addition, they advocated the inclusion of several topics that either represent recent technological and theoretical advances, or longstanding ideas that have recently received considerable attention.
MARCOing Monocytes for Elimination

Eliminating inflammatory monocytes using microparticles that bind to the MARCO receptor represents a promising strategy to reduce inflammation and injury (Getts et al., this issue).
Compatibility risks between drugs and herbal medicines or botanical supplements

Abstract Herbal supplements along with prescribed medicines raise concerns of therapeutic activity due to possible drug–herbal interactions. MDR gene products: P-gp, MRP and BCRP and metabolizing enzyme (cytochrome P450) together constitute a highly effective barrier for many orally absorbed drugs. Therapeutic agents and active herbal constituents are substrates, inhibitors and inducers of both P-gp and CYP3A4. Inhibition of P-gp by pure herbal constituents such as hypericin, kaempferol and quercetin or extract of St. John's wort resulted in higher absorption of ritonavir and erythromycin in vitro. Similarly, inhibition of CYP by hypericin, kaempferol and quercetin also caused a remarkable reduction in cortisol metabolism in vitro. Conversely, an enhanced expression of both CYP3A4 and MDR-1 mRNA in Caco-2 cells was observed after chronic exposure of hyperforin, kaempferol, quercetin and hypericin, kaempferol, quercetin, silibinin respectively. Chronic exposure (96 h) of African herbal ( Sutherlandia frutescens ) extract (300 μg/mL) resulted in elevation of both P-gp and CYP3A4 expressions in LS180V cells. Cellular accumulation of [ 3 H]Digoxin, a model P-gp substrate was significantly reduced indicating higher efflux. These in vitro results were further confirmed in rats. Administration of Sutherlandia -extract for 4 days significantly affected pharmacokinetics of nevirapine – a CYP3A4 (CYP3A2) substrate. Plasma concentration of nevirapine was diminished by 51% (Cmax) and 45% (AUC0-inf) compared to controls. Similar pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine, a P-gp substrate was also observed. Plasma concentration of fexofenadine was declined by 49.7% (Cmax) and 34.5% (AUC0-inf) compared to controls. Hepatic CYP3A4 and P-gp mRNA levels were enhanced by 3-fold and 1.75-fold respectively. Intestinal CYP3A4 (2-fold) and P-gp expressions (3-fold) was also elevated. Such reduction of steady state plasma concentrations of nevirapine and fexofenadine after concomitant administration of Sutherlandia in rats suggests medicinal agents that are substrates for P-gp and/or CYP are likely to be potential candidates for drug–herbal interactions.
Biosynthesis of superoxide dismutase in eight prokaryotes: Effects of oxygen, paraquat and an iron chelator

The effect of oxygen, paraquat (PQ2+; 1,1′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride) and 2,2′-dipyridyl (2,2′-DP) on the synthesis of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in various microorganisms was examined to determine whether the control of SOD biosynthesis in other prokaryotes is similar to that in Escherichia coli. All of the strains tested, with the exception of Alcaligenes faecalis, exhibited SOD levels proportional to the concentration of oxygen in the growth media. Paraquat induced SOD in all of the strains surveyed except Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus faecalis, and Listeria monocytogenes. The iron chelator, 2,2′-DP, induced SOD in Proteus vulgaris, Enterobacter cloacae and Staphylococcus aureus, but decreased the activity of SOD in A. faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and had no effect in S. epidermidis, S. faecalis or L. monocytogenes. The data indicate that the induction of SOD in P. vulgaris, E. cloacae, and Salmonella typhimurium is similar to that found in E. coli and suggest that the mechanism of SOD regulation in E. coli may be representative of the Enterobacteriaceae family as a whole.
The renal functional and structural consequences of corticosteroid and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor therapy in chronic puromycin aminonucleoside nephropathy.

Glomerular diseases are characterized by increased urinary protein excretion. Treatment of this abnormality frequently involves administration of corticosteroids and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. There has been much recent interest in the potential impact of these drugs on progressive renal dysfunction, since they have opposing effects on intraglomerular hemodynamics. Therefore, we investigated the effect of methylprednisolone or captopril treatment on animals with chronic puromycin aminonucleoside nephropathy. In rats given a single injection of puromycin aminonucleoside, 15 mg/100 g body weight, both methylprednisolone and captopril significantly reduced proteinuria at 6 months [83±14 untreated (n=7), 34±6 with methylprednisolone (n=8), and 6±1 mg/24h with captopril (n=5),P<0.001]. Segmental glomerulosclerosis occurred with equal frequency in the untreated (7.8±2.3%) and methylprednisolone-treated rats (5.0±1.11%), but was significantly reduced by the administration of captopril (1.0±0.5%,P<0.001). We conclude that in chronic puromycin aminonucleoside nephropathy, treatment with corticosteroids reduces proteinuria without increasing the incidence of segmental glomerulosclerosis. Therapy with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor substantially decreases proteinuria and lessens the severity of glomerular scarring.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Particulate Embolization for Cavernous Sinus Dural Arteriovenous Fistulae

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery, either with or without transarterial embolization, in the treatment of patients with dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVFs) of the cavernous sinus. METHODS: We reviewed the findings, from a prospectively established database, for 20 patients with cavernous sinus DAVFs who were treated with either radiosurgery alone (n = 7) or radiosurgery and transarterial embolization (n = 13) in a 7-year period. The median follow-up period after radiosurgery was 36 months (range, 4-59 mo). RESULTS: Nineteen of 20 patients (95%) experienced improvement of their clinical symptoms. Fourteen of 15 patients (93%) experienced either total (n = 13) or nearly total (n = 1) obliteration of their DAVFs, as documented by angiography performed a median of 12 months after radiosurgery. No patient experienced a recurrence of symptoms after angiography showed DAVF obliteration. Two patients developed new neurological deficits after embolization procedures. One patient exhibited temporary aphasia secondary to a venous infarction ; another patient exhibited permanent Vlth cranial nerve weakness related to acute cavernous sinus thrombosis. Two patients experienced recurrent symptoms and underwent repeat transarterial embolization at 7 and 12 months; both patients achieved clinical and angiographic cures (5 and 10 mo later, respectively). One patient experienced recurrent visual symptoms and underwent transvenous embolization 4 months after radiosurgery. CONCLUSION: Staged radiosurgery and transarterial embolization provided both rapid symptom relief and long-term cures for patients with cavernous sinus DAVFs. Radiosurgery alone was effective for patients with DAVFs whose arterial supply was not accessible via a transarterial approach, although the time course of symptom improvement was longer, compared with patients who also underwent embolization.
Neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with triplet pregnancy.

Abstract Objective: To compare neonatal morbidity and mortality in a large cohort of triplet pregnancies with singleton and twin neonates managed at a single tertiary center over a short time. Methods: Records from all triplet pregnancies managed and delivered from 1992 to 1996 were reviewed for neonatal outcome data. Pregnancies delivered before 20 weeks' gestation and neonates with lethal congenital anomalies were excluded. The comparison group comprised all singleton and twin neonates managed in the same neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) during the same period. Results: During the 5-year period, 55 triplet pregnancies and their resulting 165 neonates were managed and delivered at this center. Their outcomes were compared with those of 959 singleton and 357 twin neonates born at similar gestational ages. The median gestational age at delivery for triplets was 32.1 weeks, and 149 of the 165 infants were admitted. Sixteen triplet neonates were not admitted to our neonatal intensive care unit, 12 because of previable gestational age, three because of stillbirth, and one because of a lethal congenital anomaly. The crude perinatal mortality rate in triplets was 121 per 1000 births, and there was no significant difference in outcome based on triplet birth order. There were no significant differences in survival rates between singleton, twin, and triplet neonates, with an overall neonatal survival of 95%, 95%, and 97%, respectively. The only significant differences in morbidity were an increased incidence of mild intraventricular hemorrhage (relative risk [RR] 6.20; 95% confidence interval [Cl] 2.64, 14.61), mild retinopathy of prematurity (RR 20.05; 95% CI 3.59, 111.79), and severe retinopathy of prematurity (RR 46.69; 95% CI 6.25, 348.85) in triplets compared with singletons, and severe retinopathy of prematurity (RR 6.83; 95% CI 1.24, 37.56) in triplets compared with twins. Conlusion: When stratified by gestational age, triplet neonates delivered at 24–34 weeks' gestation have similar outcomes as singleton and twin neonates, with the only clinically significant difference being an increased incidence of retinopathy of prematurity in triplets.
Variations in carbon dioxide fluxes within a city landscape: Identifying a vehicular influence

To date, studies examining carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes in urban areas have been limited compared to those in rural environments. The objectives of our study were to examine the relationship between traffic volume and CO2 fluxes. We demonstrated that CO2 fluxes were strongly linked with surrounding land use, specifically impervious surfaces and traffic volume. A site near downtown Syracuse in New York State (USA) had relatively constant positive fluxes (source: +39 μmol CO2 m−2 s−1) throughout the year as a result of strong vehicular traffic influence from two nearby interstate highways. There was a strong positive relationship between traffic and CO2 fluxes (r2 = 0.93, p < 0.0001) with marked differences between the weekend days versus the workweek days. In contrast, a residential site in Syracuse was dominated by vegetative influences during the leaf-on period due to CO2 uptake by photosynthesis, reaching a maximum negative mean diurnal flux of −11 μmol CO2 m−2 s−1 around midday (sink). The spatial variations of CO2 fluxes identify the critical role played by local traffic volumes in affecting the CO2 dynamics of urban environments. Understanding the dynamic fluxes of CO2 in urban environments has important implications for local, regional and global evaluations of CO2 budgets and inventories, and carbon cycle and climate modeling.
Antegrade conduction and AV node function in patients with unidirectional retrograde accessory pathways

In 26 patients with unidirectional retrograde accessory pathways (URAP), antegrade conduction properties were evaluated. During electrophysiologic study the interval from the low septal right atrial potential to the His bundle potential (LSRA-H) in sinus rhythm (SR) was found to be less than 60 msec in 7 out of the 18 patients with left-sided URAP and in one out of two patients with septal URAP. Each of the six patients with right-sided URAP had an LSRA-H equal to or greater than 70 msec. During atrial extrastimulus testing, LSRA-H failed to prolong more than 100 msec (LSRA-H increment equal to or less than 100 msec) in four of six patients with left-sided URAP and LSRA-H of less than 60 msec in SR as well as in the one of two patients with septal URAP in whom the LSRA-H in SR was less than 60 msec. During rapid atrial pacing, we found 1:1 AV node conduction at a pacing rate of more than 200 bpm in the one patient with septal URAP and in 7 out of 14 patients with left-sided URAP who could be assessed. Three of these patients had progression from 1:1 AV conduction to 2:1 AV block without intervening Wenckebach. In conclusion, accelerated AV node conduction in SR and reduced AV node function during rapid atrial pacing or extrastimulus testing was found in 44% of our patients with left-sided or septal URAP. Since these patients are at higher risk for faster ventricular response to atrial flutter and fibrillation and for high frequency during supraventricular tachycardia, these findings were of clinical relevance.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Sequence-specific identification of 18 pathogenic microorganisms using microarray technology

We have developed a Multi-Pathogen Identification (MPID) microarray for high confidence identification of eighteen pathogenic prokaryotes, eukaryotes and viruses. Analysis of amplified products from pathogen genomic DNA using microarray hybridization allows for highly specific and sensitive detection, and allows the discrimination between true amplification products and false positive amplification products that might be derived from primers annealing to non-target sequences. Species-specific primer sets were used to amplify multiple diagnostic regions unique to each individual pathogen. Amplified products were washed over the surface of the microarray, and labelled with phycoerythrin-streptavidin for fluorescence detection. A series of overlapping 20-mer oligonucleotide probes hybridize to the entire diagnostic region, while parallel hybridizations on the same surface allow simultaneous screening for all organisms. Comparison to probes that differ by a single mismatch at the central position reduced the contribution of non-specific hybridization. Samples containing individual pathogens were analyzed in separate experiments and the corresponding species-specific diagnostic regions were identified by fluorescence among their highly redundant probe sets. On average, 91% of the 53 660 pathogen probes on the MPID microarray performed as predicted. The limit of detection was found to be as little as 10 fg of B. anthracis DNA in samples that were amplified with six diagnostic primer-pairs. In contrast, PCR products were not observed at this concentration when identical samples were prepared and visualized by agarose gel electrophoresis.
Mtr extracellular electron-transfer pathways in Fe(III)-reducing or Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria: a genomic perspective

Originally discovered in the dissimilatory metal-reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 (MR-1), key components of the Mtr (i.e. metal-reducing) pathway exist in all strains of metal-reducing Shewanella characterized. The protein components identified to date for the Mtr pathway of MR-1 include four multihaem c-Cyts (c-type cytochromes), CymA, MtrA, MtrC and OmcA, and a porin-like outer membrane protein MtrB. They are strategically positioned along the width of the MR-1 cell envelope to mediate electron transfer from the quinone/quinol pool in the inner membrane to Fe(III)-containing minerals external to the bacterial cells. A survey of microbial genomes has identified homologues of the Mtr pathway in other dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing bacteria, including Aeromonas hydrophila, Ferrimonas balearica and Rhodoferax ferrireducens, and in the Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria Dechloromonas aromatica RCB, Gallionella capsiferriformans ES-2 and Sideroxydans lithotrophicus ES-1. The apparent widespread distribution of Mtr pathways in both Fe(III)-reducing and Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria suggests a bidirectional electron transfer role, and emphasizes the importance of this type of extracellular electron-transfer pathway in microbial redox transformation of iron. The organizational and electron-transfer characteristics of the Mtr pathways may be shared by other pathways used by micro-organisms for exchanging electrons with their extracellular environments.
Retinal tears after posterior vitreous detachment and vitreous hemorrhage in patients on systemic anticoagulants

To determine the rate of retinal tears (RTs) after posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and vitreous hemorrhage (VH) in patients on systemic anticoagulants. In all, 260 eyes of 260 patients with an acute PVD and VH were followed for evidence of an RT or detachment. Patients were divided into those taking systemic anticoagulants and those not taking anticoagulants. A total of 137 patients (53%) were taking anticoagulants, 123 (47%) were not. Overall, 72% of patients not taking any anticoagulant had evidence of an RT, whereas 46% of patients taking an anticoagulant had an RT (P-value 0.0002). Also, 37% of patients not taking an anticoagulant had a retinal detachment (RD), whereas 23% of patients taking any anticoagulant had an RD (P-value 0.01). In patients with an acute PVD and VH using anticoagulants, RTs and RDs were common. Anticoagulation status may be an important contributing factor in predicting the incidence of an RT or detachment.
Spatiotemporal micropatterning of cells on arbitrary substrates.

This paper presents a readily accessible patterning platformbased upon geometric constraints, discrete cell suspension droplets, and controlled cell settlingthat provides both temporal and spatial patterning capabilities. As a demonstration, single-cell (and bead) suspensions as well as multicellular human embryonic stem cell colonies are spatiotemporally patterned onto arbitrary substrates. These substrates include tissue culture surfaces, cell monolayers, protein-coated surfaces, and 3D gel matrices. The generation of soluble factor gradients is also demonstrated. This method is completely passive and does not require external power sources. Spatiotemporal patterning provides a foundation for future biological studies that explore the time-dependent relationships between cell−cell signaling and cellular responses.
REPLY TO WEISS AND ROSENBERG

Weiss and Rosenberg (1986) appropriately note that the actual response rate was inaccurately reported by Bush and White (1985). It is unfortunate that this point is obscured by the unnecesszrg and often inaccurate criticisms about sample bias, costeffectiveness, and the over-all usefulness of the proposed technique. It is even more unfortunate that Weiss and Rosenberg did not respond to each of the following criticisms in their article, since each was pointed out prior to publication. Because the purpose of the Bush and White article was to suggest a methodological approach which appeared to have value, the issue of sample bias was not discussed. However, a reading of the original study by Bush (1984) shows the issue of sample bias was discussed extensively. Their assertion that more information is necessary to determine whether the sample is unbiased is correct, but it is inappropriate to criticize the Bush and White article for not doing something which was irrelevant to its stated purpose. Weiss and Rosenberg state thar "it is impossible to assess the worth of their claim that their procedure is more cost-effective." Their statement is inaccurate. Bush and White present the total costs of conducting the survey using their methodology and hypothetical but apparently reasonable costs for doing the same survey using mailed questionnaires. They conclude that the hand-delivery and pick-up of questionnaires is actually cheaper. To question chat conclusion, Weiss and Rosenberg either have to identify costs that Bush and White failed to account for or argue with the hypothetical costs proposed for a mailed questionnaire. Since they have done neither, it is indefensible to conclude thar cost-effectiveness cannot be determined. Finally, the actual response rate as initially reported by Bush and White is incorrect. However, the original report by Bush (1384) shows the ~n~cial participation rate of those contacted by phone was 83%. Then 94% of the 83% responding to the original contact yields an "actual response rate" of 78%~~ which IS superior to the typical mailed questionnaire response rate of 40 to 50%. The original conclusion of the Bush and White article remains unchanged.
Microfluidic Control Using Vapor Based Valves

Microflow valving and regulating are two important functions for microfluidic systems for applications such as Lab-on-Chip. Although silicon based counterparts have been studied extensively, few good technologies exist for polymer based microvalves and regulators. In this paper, we present designs and methods for microvalve and microflow regulators that are readily integrated into polymer microfluidic devices. The technologies utilize “air-pocket” structures built into the sidewalls of the microchannels. When liquid is filled in such a channel, air is trapped in “air pocket” structures due to the hydrophobicity of the polymer. By creating a small thermal gradient between the fluid in the channel and the air in the pockets, one can controllably evaporate fluid into the air pocket where it condenses. This displaces air out of the pocket into the flow channel, increasing the resistance to flow. The air valve retreats to its original pocket when the temperature gradient is removed, thus allowing one to increase or decrease fluid flow at will. If the temperature gradient is maintained long enough, the air will completely block the channel, forming an irreversible valving of the flow. Therefore, the same device can be used as either a valve or flow-regulating device. Microfluidic prototypes were built and tested using this technology. The results show successful constant flow delivery as well as valve function. This novel vapor based microflow valve and regulator has advantages of low cost, simple design, and both ease of fabrication and integration.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Standard enthalpies of formation of some rare earth stannides by high temperature direct synthesis calorimetry

Abstract The standard enthalpies of formation for some rare earth stannides in the binary systems RESn (RE  Sc, Y, Pr, Nd, Gd, Ho) have been determined by direct synthesis calorimetry at 1473 ± 2 K. The following values of ΔH f o kJ (mole of atoms) −1 are reported: Sc 5 Sn 3 = −70.2 ± 1.8; Y 5 Sn 3 = −72.8 ± 2.9; Pr 5 Sn 3 = −75.3 ± 1.4; Nd 5 Sn 3 = −74.1 ± 1.7; Gd 5 Sn 3 = −78.2 ± 2.8; Ho 5 Sn 3 = −73.5 ± 2.3. The results are compared with reported calorimetric data for the corresponding compounds of some other rare earth elements, with predicted values from the semi-empirical model of Miedema and coworkers, and with the predictions of Colinet et al. Possible correlations among the lanthanide compounds of the systematic changes in the enthalpies of formation, in the relative molar volume ratios and in the reduced temperatures as suggested by Gschneidner are also examined.
Reproduction in short-beaked common dolphins ( Delphinus delphis ) from the western North Atlantic

A single population of short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis Linnaeus) occurs in the western North Atlantic from Florida to Newfoundland. Dolphins killed in a swordfish driftnet fishery between 1989 and 1998 provided samples for the present study. These were combined with additional observations from carcasses collected from stranding programs. Samples were examined from 74 female and 161 male short-beaked common dolphins. A highly significant male bias in the sex ratio of both the bycatch and stranding samples suggests that sex-based habitat partitioning or school segregation occurs in this population. Age was estimated from decalcified thin sections of teeth and testis and ovarian samples were examined both macro- and microscopically. Analyses showed that reproduction was both seasonal and synchronized. Females reached sexual maturation at approximately age eight; males matured at 9.5 years. Conception occurred during July and August (mean day 24 July). Gestation was estimated to last just under a year, so most females gave birth during July and August (mean day 15 July). Annual pregnancy rate was estimated to be between 25 and 33%. Males undergo a fivefold seasonal increase in testes mass and a twofold increase in seminiferous tubule diameter. Peak sperm production potential was observed in July. At the end of the breeding season testis size and activity decreased after August. Male dolphins in this population are hypothesized to engage in some form of sperm competition.