cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Urinary tract infection after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation.

BACKGROUND Urinary tract infection (UTI) is common after surgical procedures and a quality improvement target. For non-surgical procedures such as catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF), UTI risk has not been characterized. We sought to determine incidence and risk factors of UTI after AF ablation and risk variation across sites. METHODS Using Marketscan commercial claims databases, we performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent AF ablation from 2007 to 2011. The primary outcome was UTI diagnosis within 30 days after ablation. We performed multivariate analyses to determine risk factors for UTI and risk of sepsis within 30 days after ablation with UTI as the predictor variable. Median odds ratio was used to quantify UTI site variation. RESULTS Among 21 091 patients (age 59.2 ± 10.9; 29.1% female; CHA2 DS2 -VASc 2.0 ± 1.6), 622 (2.9%) were diagnosed with UTI within 30 days. In multivariate analyses, UTI was independently associated with age, female sex, prior UTI, and general anesthesia (all P < .01). UTI diagnosis was associated with a substantial increased risk of sepsis within 30 days (5.0% vs. 0.3%; odds ratio 17.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.8-28.2; P < .0001). Among 416 sites, 211 had at least one UTI. Among these 211 sites, the incidence of postablation UTI ranged from 0.7 to 26.7% (median: 5.4%; Interquartile Range (IQR): 3.0-7.1%; 95th percentile: 14.3%; median odds ratio: 1.45; 95% CI 1.41-1.50). CONCLUSIONS UTI after AF ablation is not uncommon and varies substantially across sites. Consideration of UTI as a quality measure and interventions targeted at high-risk patients or sites warrant consideration.
Statistical algorithmic profiling for randomized approximate programs

Many modern applications require low-latency processing of large data sets, often by using approximate algorithms that trade accuracy of the results for faster execution or reduced memory consumption. Although the algorithms provide probabilistic accuracy and performance guarantees, a software developer who implements these algorithms has little support from existing tools. Standard profilers do not consider accuracy of the computation and do not check whether the outputs of these programs satisfy their accuracy specifications. We present AxProf, an algorithmic profiling framework for analyzing randomized approximate programs. The developer provides the accuracy specification as a formula in a mathematical notation, using probability or expected value predicates. AxProf automatically generates statistical reasoning code. It first constructs the empirical models of accuracy, time, and memory consumption. It then selects and runs appropriate statistical tests that can, with high confidence, determine if the implementation satisfies the specification. We used AxProf to profile 15 approximate applications from three domains - data analytics, numerical linear algebra, and approximate computing. AxProf was effective in finding bugs and identifying various performance optimizations. In particular, we discovered five previously unknown bugs in the implementations of the algorithms and created fixes, guided by AxProf.
Joint probabilistic data association-feedback particle filter for multiple target tracking applications

This paper introduces a novel feedback-control based particle filter for the solution of the filtering problem with data association uncertainty. The particle filter is referred to as the joint probabilistic data association-feedback particle filter (JPDA-FPF). The JPDA-FPF is based on the feedback particle filter introduced in our earlier papers [17], [16]. The remarkable conclusion of our paper is that the JPDA-FPF algorithm retains the innovation error-based feedback structure of the feedback particle filter, even with data association uncertainty in the general nonlinear case. The theoretical results are illustrated with the aid of two numerical example problems drawn from multiple target tracking applications.
A System Dynamics Model of Violent Trauma and the Role of Violence Intervention Programs.

Abstract Background Violence intervention programs (VIPs) can reduce interpersonal violence (IPV); however, optimizing the implementation of VIPs is challenging, given the complex dynamics of IPV. System dynamics models (SDMs) provide a means of visualizing dynamic and causal relationships in such complex systems. We use the IPVSDM to characterize and examine the relationship between IPV, VIPs, and the social determinants of health (SDH). Materials and methods The simulation model was created from a diagram that links putative causal relationships between VIPs, SDH, and IPV events. Simulation rules are then used to calculate a risk of violence parameter based on the SDH, which drives the transition from low-risk to high-risk populations and in turn influences IPV event rates. A qualitative relational approach was used to evaluate long-term effects of VIP on IPV events. Results The model produced qualitatively plausible behavior with respect to IPV events, population transitions, and relative overall VIP effect. Simulation runs converged to stable steady states with an exponential benefit of VIP on reducing IPV that is best appreciated after 1-2 y. The VIP functioned in a recognizable fashion by slowing the shift from low-risk to high-risk populations. Conclusions This initial implementation of the IPVSDM produced recognizable baseline behavior while incorporating the possible effects of a VIP. The model allows causality and counterfactual testing, which is impractical in vivo. Community-level VIP efforts should show benefit particularly after a couple years. Future work will emphasize adding complexity to the IPVSDM and identifying real-world metrics to aid in testing, validation, and prediction of the model.
Historical Perspective on Identifying and Controlling Spontaneous Combustion

This chapter summarizes the experimental, theoretical, and preventive methods on identifying and controlling spontaneous combustion. Classic experimental methods for evaluating lability of self-heating are reviewed including USBM method, adiabatic method, isothermal and CPT methods, and thermoanalytical method which involves TG, DTA, and DSC. Theoretical techniques including kinetic model, Arrhenius reaction rate model, shrinking core model, and numerical model are presented. Tube bundle system (TBS), gas chromatography (GC) and fire ratios for monitoring system and inert gas injection, sealant technology, and chemical retardant for mitigation measures are summarized.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis influence mental and physical health differently before and after joint replacement surgery: A prospective study.

Background Patient-reported outcomes are increasingly used in evaluations of joint replacement surgery, but it is unclear if symptoms of osteoarthritis (i.e., pain and dysfunction) influence health perceptions similarly before and after surgery. Methods In this prospective study based on a hospital-based arthroplasty registry, patients with primary total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA, N = 990, and TKA, N = 907) completed the WOMAC Pain and Function scales, and the SF12 Physical and Mental Component Scores (PCS and MCS), before surgery and one year later. Associations between WOMAC and SF12 scales were examined using mixed linear regression models. Results All patient-reported outcomes improved following total joint arthroplasty, but the associations between symptom scales and global health perceptions were altered. Mental health scores at a given level of pain or function were lower after surgery than before, by about 4–5 points, a clinically meaningful and statistically significant difference. In contrast, the associations between WOMAC scales and the PCS remained stable. These findings were observed in both cohorts of patients. Conclusions After total joint arthroplasty, mental health scores were lower than would have been expected given the symptomatic improvement. This suggests that relationships between patient-reported outcomes are context-dependent, and that care should be exerted when interpreting changes in patient-reported outcomes over time.
Successful Opioid De-Escalation With Dexmedetomidine in a 1 year old with Worsening Pain and Opioid-Induced Neurotoxicity

Background: Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa (JEB) is the most severe form of Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a skin blistering disease, which causes widespread pain, infection, and typically death by age 2 or earlier. Opioid use can be very high in these children, putting them at risk for opioid-induced neurotoxicity (OIN). Treatment for OIN …
Pursuing Inclusive Schools: The Case of Youth Researchers of Color Expanding a New Vision

Abstract This qualitative study examines how youth of Color with and without disabilities used youth participatory action research (YPAR) to advance a youth-centered conceptualization of inclusive ...
Approximate summaries for why and why-not provenance

Why and why-not provenance have been studied extensively in recent years. However, why-not provenance and --- to a lesser degree --- why provenance can be very large, resulting in severe scalability and usability challenges. We introduce a novel approximate summarization technique for provenance to address these challenges. Our approach uses patterns to encode why and why-not provenance concisely. We develop techniques for efficiently computing provenance summaries that balance informativeness, conciseness, and completeness. To achieve scalability, we integrate sampling techniques into provenance capture and summarization. Our approach is the first to both scale to large datasets and generate comprehensive and meaningful summaries.
Gerontology: Back to the future at UNC Charlotte?

I have spent the better part of the last 15 years working with the Gerontology Program at ﻿the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I have been a part-time lecturer, a visiting professor, a l...
Supporting Intersex People: Effective Academic and Career Counseling

This phenomenological study explored the academic and career experiences of 10 intersex people. Researchers conducted the study to share knowledge with counselors and other helping professionals ab...
Self-play for Data Efficient Language Acquisition.

When communicating, people behave consistently across conversational roles: People understand the words they say and are able to produce the words they hear. To date, artificial agents developed for language tasks have lacked such symmetry, meaning agents trained to produce language are unable to understand it and vice-versa. In this work, we exploit the symmetric nature of communication in order to improve both the efficiency and quality of language acquisition in learning agents. Specifically, we consider the setting in which an agent must learn to both understand and generate words in an existing language, but with the assumption that access to interaction with "oracle" speakers of the language is very limited. We show that using self-play as a substitute for direct supervision enables the agent to transfer its knowledge across roles (e.g. training as a listener but testing as a speaker) and make better inferences about the ground truth lexicon using only a handful of interactions with the oracle.
Cardiac Surgeons’ Treatment Approaches for Infective Endocarditis Based on Patients’ Substance Use History

U.S. cardiac surgeons encounter complex decision-making when treating patients with injection drug use-associated infective endocarditis (IDU-IE). We evaluated surgeons’ treatment approaches for IDU-IE compared to non-IDU-IE. This is an anonymous survey of U.S. cardiac surgeons who answered hypothetical infective endocarditis (IE) clinical scenarios that varied based on patient substance use history, addiction treatment, and history of IE. Treatment approaches were classified as operative vs nonoperative. Responses were descriptively analyzed. The survey response rate was 8.7% (n = 208). Survey respondents were mostly male (85.6%) and non-Hispanic white (67.8%), but were from all regions of the United States. Surgeons reported they would operate at similar proportions for patients with native valve non-IDU-IE (63%) and IDU-IE engaged in methadone treatment (64.5%). Most surgeons reported they would operate on patients with recurrent non-IDU-IE (93.1%) compared to only 26.4% for patients with recurrent IDU-IE (P
Development of a novel soy-wax containing emulsion with enhanced antifungal properties for the postharvest treatment of fresh citrus fruit

Abstract A novel single pendent hydroxy functionalized soy-wax was synthesized via hydroboration-oxidation of high oleic soybean oil (HBO-HOSO). Low apparent viscosity emulsions containing such wax was formulated as an alternative to the high-cost carnauba wax (CAR) and resin-based emulsions used in citrus fruit coatings, mainly to impart sheen and prevent moisture loss. The effect of additional CAR on properties of HBO-HOSO emulsions was analyzed, and the performance of the optimal formulation for citrus coating was evaluated. Addition of CAR to HBO-HOSO led to an increase in apparent viscosity, although reduced the particle size of the emulsion. An emulsion containing 20% HBO-HOSO of total solid content resulted in a low apparent viscosity and small particle size, comparable to commercial emulsions made from CAR (O-Wax and ORO), oxidized polyethylene (LS-Wax) and shellac resin (STAR). Adherence of coatings made with HBO-HOSO to the fruit surface was not significantly different compared to commercial benchmarks. The HBO-HOSO-containing emulsion provided similar gloss and resulted in reduced moisture loss (6.0%) compared to the commercial products (7.0–14.6%). HBO-HOSO-containing emulsions also did not affect the release of imazalil, a common fungicide applied on citrus fruits, and simultaneously more effectively inhibited the growth of Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16888).
No Pain, No Strain: Impact of Health on the Financial Security of Older Americans

This study uses data from the 2002 and 2004 Health and Retirement Study to investigate the impact that new and existing health problems have on the financial strain of older Americans. Two-period models are estimated for a series of financial ratio guidelines that take into account household solvency, liquidity, and investment asset accumulation. We test our models using a subjective measure of self-reported health status and two objective measures of health that control for the severity of specific health conditions. The results show that health problems significantly increase the likelihood of financial strain for older individuals, but the effects vary by the measure of financial strain used and how health status is defined. Specifically, existing health conditions were more likely to affect solvency and investment asset accumulation than liquidity, while new health events were more likely to affect solvency. The severity of the condition did not seem to matter as much as whether the condition was chronic. These results provide insight into the future financial security of older Americans and have important implications for health policy and research.
Facilitating Identity Compatibility in Mentorships: Implications for Diversity in Medicine:

Despite intentional efforts to improve diversity in medicine, there is pronounced underrepresentation of minority groups and non-disclosure of minority identities by medical students due to societa...
Outcomes of Young Patients With Alcoholic Cirrhosis After First Hospitalization for Cirrhosis: A Carilion Clinic Experience.

Background Alcoholic cirrhosis though uncommon in young patients is being reported more frequently and related mortality is also increasing. Study aim To evaluate risk factors associated with mortality among young patients ( 40 years old) after their first hospitalization in a tertiary referral academic center. Methods Carilion clinic's electronic medical record (EPIC) was queried to identify all alcoholic patients hospitalized for the first time with either a new diagnosis of alcoholic cirrhosis or a prior diagnosis of this from 2008 to 2016 with follow-up through June 2018. Information on demographics, comorbidities, lab values, procedures, and mortality was extracted. The cumulative risks of long-term mortality after the first hospitalization were estimated using Kaplan-Meier curves and compared between the two groups; those 40 years of age. Demographic data, lab values, and comorbidities associated with cirrhosis were assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis to determine risk factors associated with long-term mortality. Results We identified 65 young patients out of a total of 325 patients admitted for the first time for alcoholic cirrhosis (mean age: 34.6 ± 4.7 yrs, 72.3% males, 74.4% current alcohol users, 52.3% current smokers, 12.6% current illicit drugs users). The one, three, and five-year cumulative mortality after the first hospitalization was 21.1 %, 31.1%, and 49.7% respectively. The median survival for young patients was longer as compared to the older patients (p<0.001); likely related to high early mortality in older patients who had many other comorbidities. On multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis, increased age [hazard ratio (HR) 1.03; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01-1.05], neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio (NLR) at first hospital discharge (HR 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04), the presence of encephalopathy (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.06-3.55), and initial MELD (model for end-stage liver disease) score (HR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.08-1.19) were associated with increased risk of mortality. Though the majority of patients endorsed current alcohol and tobacco use before the admission, it was not significantly associated with mortality. Conclusions Five-year cumulative mortality for patients < 40 years of age with alcoholic cirrhosis after their first hospitalization is 49.7%. Old age, most recent NLR, hepatic encephalopathy, and MELD score on admission were associated with increased late mortality.
Odor-Sensing Model

In this chapter we develop a model of a “nose” with three receptors. Each of the three receptors is tuned to a particular type of odor, either 1, 2, or 3-The goal of the “nose” is for the dominant receptor to suppress the other two odors in order to send a clear signal to the brain regarding the type of odor being sensed. The odor changes over time according to the following rule: $$ {\text{ODOR = IF}}\,{\text{TIME}} \leqslant {\text{15}}\;{\text{THEN}}\;{\text{NORMAL(1,}}{\text{.4)}}\;{\text{ELSE}}\;{\text{NORMAL(3,}}{\text{.4)}} $$ (1)
Hume and the Perception of Spatial Magnitude

Among the current topics in Hume scholarship witnessing an upsurge in attention, few can match the inherent complexities associated with his doctrine of space, that often neglected and occasionally maligned theory put forth in Book I, Part II, of the Treatise} Yet despite this increase in academic interest, Hume's concept of spatial magnitude i.e., the spatial size or magnitude of visible and tangible figures2 as opposed to his mpre general notion of space, has not attracted the same degree of attention. Even if commentators agree that Hume took the idea of space to be an idea derived from 'the impressions of color'd points, dispos'd in a certain manner' (T 1.2.3.3), this fact does not tell us what measures the distance between these impressions (perceptions), or what psychological processes and empirical properties are involved in the act of determining size or magnitude. If one bears in mind that the concept of spatial magnitude is also intimately connected with the status of geome-
Caps and Floors

Caps and floors are call/put options on LIBOR rates. We describe the Black formulas used for their valuation in the market and provide a formal justification for such a use. We also show the corresponding market volatility smiles and describe an extension of Black's formula that accommodates them. Keywords: caps; floors; LIBOR rate; volatility; Black's formula
9‐Phenanthrol inhibits recombinant and arterial myocyte TMEM16A channels

Background and Purpose In arterial smooth muscle cells (myocytes), intravascular pressure stimulates membrane depolarization and vasoconstriction (the myogenic response). Ion channels proposed to mediate pressure-induced depolarization include several transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, including TRPM4, and transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A), a Ca2+-activated Cl− channel (CaCC). 9-Phenanthrol, a putative selective TRPM4 channel inhibitor, abolishes myogenic tone in cerebral arteries, suggesting that either TRPM4 is essential for pressure-induced depolarization, upstream of activation of other ion channels or that 9-phenanthrol is non-selective. Here, we tested the hypothesis that 9-phenanthrol is also a TMEM16A channel blocker, an ion channel for which few inhibitors have been identified. Experimental Approach Patch clamp electrophysiology was used to measure rat cerebral artery myocyte and human recombinant TMEM16A (rTMEM16A) currents or currents generated by recombinant bestrophin-1, another Ca2+-activated Cl− channel, expressed in HEK293 cells. Key Results 9-Phenanthrol blocked myocyte TMEM16A currents activated by either intracellular Ca2+ or Eact, a TMEM16A channel activator. In contrast, 9-phenanthrol did not alter recombinant bestrophin-1 currents. 9-Phenanthrol reduced arterial myocyte TMEM16A currents with an IC50 of ∼12 μM. Cell-attached patch recordings indicated that 9-phenanthrol reduced single rTMEM16A channel open probability and mean open time, and increased mean closed time without affecting the amplitude. Conclusions and Implications These data identify 9-phenanthrol as a novel TMEM16A channel blocker and provide an explanation for the previous observation that 9-phenanthrol abolishes myogenic tone when both TRPM4 and TMEM16A channels contribute to this response. 9-Phenanthrol may be a promising candidate from which to develop TMEM16A channel-specific inhibitors.
The Wars for Asia, 1911–1949

Part I. Fear and Ambition: Japan, China, and Russia: 1. Introduction: the Asian roots of World War II 2. Japan 1931-6: the containment of Russia and national restoration 3. China 1926-36: chaos and the quest for the mandate of heaven 4. Russia 1917-36: impending two-front war and world revolution Part II. Nested Wars: A Civil War within a Regional War within a Global War: 5. Flashback to 1911 and the beginning of the long Chinese Civil War 6. The regional war: the Second Sino-Japanese War 7. The global war: World War I 8. The final act of the long Chinese Civil War 9. Conclusion: civil war as the prologue and epilogue to regional and global wars.
MADD Is a Downstream Target of PTEN in Triggering Apoptosis

Mitogen-activated kinase activating death domain containing protein (MADD) is abundantly expressed in cancer cells and necessary for maintaining cancer cell survival. However, this survival function of MADD is dependent upon its phosphorylation by protein kinase B (Akt). The tumour suppressor PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) is a lipid phosphatase that negatively regulates the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signalling pathway. The downstream targets of PTEN in triggering apoptosis have not yet been completely identified. Here, we report that MADD can act as a pro-apoptotic factor to initiate apoptosis when its phosphorylation is attenuated by PTEN. Our data show that tumor necrosis factor α-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) induced a reduction in MADD phosphorylation with a concomitant up-regulation of PTEN. Knock down of PTEN using a specific siRNA prevented TRAIL-induced reduction in pMADD levels. Surprisingly, Akt non-phopshorylated MADD translocated from the plasma membrane to cytoplasm where it bound to 14-3-3 and displaced 14-3-3 associated Bax, which translocated to mitochondria resulting in cytochrome-C release. Taken together, our data reveal that PTEN can convey the death signal by preventing MADD phosphorylation by Akt.
Production and thermal decay of radiation-induced point defects in KD2PO4 crystals

Optical absorption and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques have been used to characterize the production and thermal decay of point defects in undoped single crystals of KD2PO4 grown at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. A crystal was irradiated at 77 K with x rays, and then warmed to room temperature. Immediately after irradiation, broad optical absorption bands were observed to peak near 230, 390, and 550 nm. During warming, these absorption bands thermally decayed in the 80–140 K range. Another absorption band peaking near 450 nm appeared as the three bands disappeared. This last band decayed between 140 and 240 K. Correlations with EPR data suggest that the band at 230 nm is associated with interstitial deuterium atoms, the two bands at 390 and 550 nm are associated with self-trapped holes, and the band at 450 nm is associated with holes trapped adjacent to deuterium vacancies. Additional EPR spectra from several oxygen-vacancy centers and a silicon-associated hole center were observ...
Evolutionary Psychology: Theoretical Foundations

Evolutionary psychology is an approach to the cognitive sciences whose goal is to map the evolved, species-typical cognitive and neural architecture of humans (and other species). Its focus is on integrating what is known about evolution into the research process, allowing evolutionary psychologists to derive hypotheses about the design of human information-processing mechanisms from the large pre- existing body of theories already developed and empirically tested within modern evolutionary biology. Keywords: adaptation; natural selection; domain-specificity; adaptive function; module
Titan's asymmetric lake distribution mediated by methane transport due to atmospheric eddies

The hemispheric asymmetry of Titan's surface methane has been proposed to be a consequence of orbital forcing affecting Titan's hydrologic cycle, but the mechanism behind asymmetrical transport of moisture remains to be examined. Using general circulation model simulations of Titan's atmosphere, we show that atmospheric moisture transport by three-dimensional tropospheric eddies is critical in generating Titan's surface liquid asymmetry. Comparison of axisymmetric and three-dimensional simulations demonstrates that a significant asymmetry only develops in the latter case. Analysis of the components of the three-dimensional moisture transport reveals that nonaxisymmetric eddies transport methane away from the poles and into the midlatitudes, where they transfer moisture into the cross-equatorial transport by the mean meridional circulation, producing an atmospheric “bucket brigade.” Because these high-latitude, baroclinic eddies are more intense in the south than in the north, the net transport is preferentially northward, with the northern hemisphere gaining surface liquid at the expense of the southern hemisphere.
Does Size Matter? An Empirical Investigation into the Competitive Strategies of the Small Firm

This paper examines whether different strategies are associated with different sized firms in a focal industry dominated by small family-owned businesses. In an effort to shed light on how strategic choice is determined, a well-defined and geographically concentrated industry, i.e., the Northern California wine industry, is selected to minimize environmental noise. Factor analysis is applied to fourteen strategic elements to extract a parsimonious set of five primary competitive strategies: new product/market development, consolidation, niche focus, proprietary processes, and flexibility. The factors, new product/market development and consolidation as well as the control variable, age, are found to be significantly associated with firm size.
Four-dimensional reflectivity data comparison between two ground-based radars: methodology and statistical analysis

AbstractA methodology is proposed to compare radar reflectivity data obtained from two partially overlapping ground-based radars in order to explain relative differences in radar-rainfall products and establish sound merging procedures for multi-radar observing networks. To identify radar calibration differences, radar reflectivity is compared for well-matched radar sampling volumes viewing common meteorological targets. Temporal separation and three-dimensional matching of two different sampling volumes were considered based on the original polar coordinates of radar observation. Since the proposed method assumes radar beam propagation under standard atmospheric conditions, anomalous propagation cases were eliminated from the analysis. The reflectivity comparison results show systematic differences over time, but the variability of these differences is surprisingly large due to the sensitive nature of the radar reflectivity measurement. Editor D. Koutsoyiannis/Z.W. Kundzewicz; Guest editor R.J. MooreCita...
Phase equilibria during InSb molecular beam epitaxy

Abstract We analyze the thermodynamic equilibria between the solid, liquid and vapor phases of the In-Sb system. From this analysis, we deduce the “window” in pressure and temperature within which molecular beam epitaxy of the InSb zincblende compound is thermodynamically preffered over condensation of other phases. Our method of analysis should be generally applicable to other III–V systems as well.
Effects of plant sterols on the hydration and phase behavior of DOPE/DOPC mixtures

Abstract Freeze-induced injury of protoplasts of non-acclimated rye and oat is associated with the formation of the inverted hexagonal (HII) phase in regions where the plasma membrane and various endomembranes are brought into close apposition as a result of freeze-induced dehydration. The influence of lipid composition and hydration on the propensity of mixtures of DOPE:DOPC containing either sterols or acylated steryl glucosides to form the HII phase was determined by DSC, freeze-fracture electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The addition of plant sterols to a mixture of DOPE/DOPC (either 1:1:1 or 1:1:2 mole ratio of DOPE/DOPC/sterols) reduced the total hydration of the mixture (expressed as wt% water) after desorption over a range of osmotic pressures of 2.8 to 286 MPa. However, most or all of the water remaining in the dehydrated lipid mixtures was associated predominantly with the phospholipids. Both sterols and acylated steryl glucosides significantly promoted both the dehydration-induced and thermally induced Lα → HII phase s transitions in DOPE/DOPC mixtures however, acylated steryl glucosides were much more effective. In mixtures containing plant sterols, the HII phase occurred after dehydration at 20 MPa (20°C), which resulted in a water content of 11.7 wt%. In contrast, mixtures containing acylated steryl glucosides were in the HII phase in excess water, i.e., they did not require dehydration to effect the Lα → HII phase transition. The results indicate that genotypic differences in the lipid composition of the plasma membrane of rye and oat leaves have a significant influence on the propensity for formation of the HII phase during freeze-induced dehydration.
Chemical composition and age determination of Tholeiitic rocks in the basic igneous complex, Ecuador

Two new chemical analyses show that tholeiitic lava on the coastal plain of Ecuador is similar to basalt on Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica and other basalt found along the Pacific Coast of northwestern South America. Harzburgite is found in the same group of mafic volcanic and intrusive rocks here called basic igneous complex. K:Ar age determinations of basaltic lava in this complex show that igneous activity continued at least until early Eocene, although most of the hypabyssal rocks could be Late Jurassic to Late Cretaceous. Discussion includes possible correlation of the basic igneous complex of Ecuador, the Nicoya Complex of Costa Rica, similar rocks along the Pacific Coast of Panama and Colombia, and the basaltic floor of Nazca plate.
Comorbidity of Central Auditory Processing Disorder and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ABSTRACT Research has indicated that children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) demonstrate significant difficulty on tasks used to assess central auditory processing skills. These findings have raised the question of whether ADHD and central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) represent a singular disorder. Objective : The current study explored the incidence of ADHD in a group of 30 children who met diagnostic criteria for CAPD. Method Consecutive referrals specifically for this project were assessed on a variety of measures. In addition, rating scales were completed by teachers and structured interviews were completed with parents. Results Results indicate that although the incidence rate of ADHD (50%) in this sample significantly exceeds that found in the normative population ( p Conclusion : This study further supports the need for increased collaboration of those professionals who work with these children given the extent of overlap of language and behavioral difficulties in this sample.
Intrasplenic masses of “preserved” functioning splenic tissue in sickle cell disease: correlation of imaging findings (CT, ultrasound, MRI, and nuclear scintigraphy)

Purpose. We studied six patients with sickle cell disease (SSD), five homozygous for sickle cell anemia and one with sickle betathalassemia, in whom rounded intrasplenic masses proved to be preserved functioning splenic tissue.Materials and methods. Available images including computed tomography, ultrasonography, bone scans (Tc-99m MDP), liver spleen scans (Tc-99m sulfur colloid), and MRI were evaluated.Results. The masses were low density on CT (in an otherwise calcified spleen), hypoechoic relative to the echogenic spleen on US, and had the imaging characteristics of normal spleen on MRI. They failed to accumulate Tc-99m MDP but did demonstrate uptake of Tc-99m sulfur colloid.Conclusion. In a patient with SSD and intrasplenic masses, proper correlation of multiple imaging modalities will establish the diagnosis of functioning splenic tissue and avoid mistaken diagnosis of splenic abscess or infarction.
The flowering of plastic surgery.

PLASTIC surgery, unlike most surgical specialties, has no anatomic or functional area to which it can lay claim; the plastic surgeon practices methods and techniques applicable to all specialties and anatomic areas. My first exposure to plastic surgery was as a medical student when I watched Varaztad H. Kazanjian, DMD, MD, reconstruct a nose with a forehead flap—the ancient Indian method. I was greatly intrigued. A decade later, I became his fast friend, admirer, and professional colleague, and, in 1941, succeeded him as chief of the Plastic Clinic at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston. Having spent my childhood in Cambridge, Mass, and 8 years of higher education at Harvard University, Cambridge, it seemed appropriate that I go elsewhere for my postgraduate training. When the opportunity arose to intern at Barnes Hospital in St Louis, Mo, I chose to leave Boston. (There was no matching plan in those days.) Quite
Effect of fluoroacetate on glucose metabolism in vivo

Abstract 1. 1. Initial injections of fluoroacetate produce a marked rise in blood sugar levels of albino rats. 2. 2. Subsequent injections of fluoroacetate caused smaller rises in blood sugar levels than the initial injection, indicating some accomodation to fluoroacetate by the albino rat. 3. 3. Strain differences in the quantitative effect of fluoroacetate on glucose metabolism were noted. 4. 4. Repeated injections of sublethal dosages of fluoroacetate lead to prolonged elevation of blood glucose.
New AdS(3) branes and boundary states

We examine D-branes on AdS3, and find a 3-brane wrapping the entire AdS3, in addition to 1-branes and instantonic 2-branes previously discussed in the literature. The 3-brane is found using a construction of Maldacena, Moore, and Seiberg. We show that all these branes satisfy Cardy's condition and extract the open string spectrum on them.
Modeling the impact of ozone x drought interactions on regional crop yields.

The influence of soil moisture stress on crop sensitivity to O3 was evaluated for corn (Zea mays L.), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown in the United States. This assessment was accomplished by using yield forecasting models to estimate the influence of soil moisture deficits on regional yield and a previously developed model to predict moisture stress x O3 interactions. Reduced crop sensitivity to O3 was predicted for those regions and years for which soil moisture stress reduced yield. The models predicted a drought-induced reduction in crop sensitivity to O3 of approximately 20% for the 1979 to 1983 period; i.e. a hypothetical O3-induced yield reduction of 5% for adequately watered crops would have been reduced to a 4% effect by the 1979 to 1983 distribution of soil moisture deficits. However, predicted drought effects varied between crops, regions, and years. Uncertainties in the model predictions are also discussed.
Congenital AV block. Pace me now or pace me later

Congenital complete atrioventricular block (CCAVB) has been recognized for almost 100 years. First described by Morquio1 in 1901, it has been of interest in the past primarily because of the risk of Stokes-Adams attacks or sudden cardiac death in these patients.2 3 4 5 6 As a result of some of these studies4 5 6 and others,7 8 the Committee on Pacemaker Implantation published the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force Report in 19919 with specific indications for implantation of a pacemaker in the presence of CCAVB. Although this syndrome is not diagnosed solely in children, the section under which these guidelines appear is “Indications for Permanent Pacing in Children.” This certainly makes sense from the perspective that this disease is congenital in nature and initially recognized in childhood. With the advent of fetal echocardiography, in utero diagnosis of CCAVB has resulted in earlier intervention in newborns. Heightened suspicion of the possibility of CCAVB in children born to mothers with connective tissue disease, especially systemic lupus erythematosis, has had the same consequence. To those faced with making the difficult decision of when to implant a pacemaker in an infant or child, arbitrary guidelines can be of concern. Should an asymptomatic newborn be referred for a pacemaker if the average heart rate when awake is found to be 58 beats per minute, or must this be done only if it is less than the recommended value of 55 beats per minute? What is the best plan for a 6-year-old referred to the clinic because of a murmur recognized during a school physical examination in whom complete AV block incidentally happens to be found on the ECG? The child’s parents give a history that the child seems “normal” to them in terms of keeping up …
Concepts of the Atoka: ABSTRACT

The Atoka was named and defined as the formation between the Hartshorne Sandstone above and the Wapanucka Limestone below (1900, 1901). The basal part of the Atoka is considered by some to correspond with the Kessler Member of the Morrow. Minute fusiform fusulinids are known from the basal Atoka at Clarita, Oklahoma; and it is commonly believed that Fusulina is entirely a post-Atokan genus. However, "Fusulina" was already described from beds assigned an Atokan age (in New Mexico and Wyoming); and now prolific Fusulina was found about 400 feet below the Hartshorne northwest of Clarita. It would be logical not to expect lithologic boundaries, no matter how locally persistent, to coincide with major steps in evolution of embedded fossils, no matter how seemingly rapid. Hence, biostratigraphic boundaries postulated on the evidence of evolution of fusulinids need not correspond with lithologic boundaries, although they may do so at places. The first appearance of the fusiform fusulinid Fusulinella appears to coincide roughly with the basal sediments of the Atoka, at least in the type area of the Atoka; but the first appearance of Fusulina is undoubtedly well within the upper and perhaps even middle part of the original Atoka. End_of_Article - Last_Page 356------------
Stakeholder marketing: a definition and conceptual framework

Stakeholder marketing has established foundational support for redefining and broadening the marketing discipline. An extensive literature review of 58 marketing articles that address six primary stakeholder groups (i.e., customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders, regulators, and the local community) provides evidence of the important role the groups play in stakeholder marketing. Based on this review and in conjunction with established marketing theory, we define stakeholder marketing as “activities and processes within a system of social institutions that facilitate and maintain value through exchange relationships with multiple stakeholders.” In an effort to focus on the stakeholder marketing field of study, we offer both a conceptual framework for understanding the pivotal role of stakeholder marketing and research questions for examining the linkages among stakeholder exchanges, value creation, and marketing outcomes.
Advertisement-call modification, male competition, and female preference in the bird-voiced treefrog Hyla avivoca

Senders and receivers influence dynamic characteristics of the signals used for mate attraction over different time scales. On a moment-to-moment basis, interactions among senders competing for a mate influence dynamic characteristics, whereas the preferences of receivers of the opposite gender exert an influence over evolutionary time. We observed and recorded the calling patterns of the bird-voiced treefrog Hyla avivoca to assess how the dynamic characters of calls vary during interactions among groups of males in a chorus. This question was also addressed using playback experiments with males. Playback experiments with females showed how changes in dynamic call properties are likely to affect male mating success. Frogs calling in pairs, groups, or in response to playbacks produced longer calls than did isolated males. During call overlap, males often increased the duration of the silent interval (gaps) between the pulses of their calls so that the pulses of the calls of two neighbors interdigitated. This change resulted in increased variability of pulse rate, a traditionally static acoustic property; however, males also produced high proportions of non-overlapped calls in which variability in pulse rate was low and had species-typical values. Females preferred long calls to short- and average-duration calls, and non-overlapped calls to overlapped calls. Given a choice between pairs of overlapped calls, females preferred pairs in which the proportion of overlap was low and pairs in which the pulses of such calls interdigitated completely. The observed patterns of vocal competition thus reflect the preferences of conspecific females, which have influenced the evolution of the calling behavior of H. avivoca.
Taming Java for the classroom

Java is the canonical language for teaching introductory programming, but its complex syntax and abundance of constructs are difficult for beginners to learn. This paper shows how object-oriented programming in Java can be made more accessible to beginners through the use of "language levels", a hierarchy of progressively richer subsets of Java. This hierarchy is implemented as an extension of the DrJava pedagogic programming environment.
Simple method for securing a decompression tube for odontogenic cysts and tumors: a technical note.

Decompression of odontogenic cysts and certain odontogenic tumors is a straightforward procedure used very commonly in the treatment of these entities. The goals for use of the decompression technique are usually determined by the size, location, and type of the pathology encountered. The most common reason for incorporating the decompression technique in the treatment algorithm for an odontogenic entity is the keratocystic odontogenic tumor. Several “decompression tubes” have been described and successfully used for this purpose. Some of the common problems encountered during the course of this type of treatment, which is extended over several months, originate from the size of the decompression tube itself and/or the trauma to the soft tissues from resorbable or nonresorbable sutures, or malposition or dislodgment of the tube. Although these are not major complications, they contribute to the discomfort and inconvenience for the patient and the clinician. The aim of this technical note is to describe a straightforward way of securing a polyethylene tube, commonly used for decompression, to minimize the trauma to the surrounding soft tissues, and to maximize retention in the proper location and position in relation to the cyst or tumor. Twenty-two patients were treated with this approach at our institution. The technique involves using a 28-gauge stainless steel ligature wire that secures the tube around the tooth/teeth immediately adjacent to the site of the lesion. In this manner, the soft tissues around the tube are not traumatized from any suture material or tube displacement because the position is secured with a wire, and adequate oral hygiene can be performed easily. Additionally, tube length adjustments may be required often during the treatment course, and these may be performed in a noninvasive fashion, and without the need for ad
Newly isolated mAbs broaden the neutralizing epitope in murine norovirus

Here, we report the isolation and functional characterization of mAbs against two murine norovirus (MNV) strains, MNV-1 and WU20, which were isolated following oral infection of mice. The mAbs were screened for reactivity against the respective homologous and heterologous MNV strain by ELISA. Selected mAbs were of IgA, IgG1, IgG2a or IgG2b isotype and showed a range of Western blot reactivities from non-binding to strong binding, suggesting recognition of conformational and linear epitopes. Some of the anti-MNV-1 antibodies neutralized both MNV-1 and WU20 infections in culture and in mice, but none of the anti-WU20 mAbs neutralized either virus. The non-neutralizing anti-MNV-1 IgG2b antibody 5C4.10 was mapped to the S domain of the MNV-1 capsid, whilst the epitopes of the neutralizing anti-MNV-1 IgA antibodies 2D3.7 and 4F9.4 were mapped to the P domain. Generation of neutralization escape viruses showed that two mutations (V339I and D348E) in the C′D′ loop of the MNV-1 P domain mediated escape from mAb 2D3.7 and 4F9.4 neutralization. These findings broaden the known neutralizing epitopes of MNV to the main surface-exposed loops of the P domain. In addition, the current panel of antibodies provides valuable reagents for studying norovirus biology and development of diagnostic tools.
Measuring the size and shape of strings

Abstract We define size and shape in terms of observables, i.e. scattering amplitudes. Excited strings can be measured by scattering ground-state string probes off them. We pick an example where, classically, the ends of the string trace out a circle. Our calculation shows that the radius of the circle is proportional to the mass of the string, M, in agreement with classical expectations. However, on distance scales less than √In M, quantum fluctuations are important and a classical space-time picture becomes questionable.
Regulation of Ca2+-activated tension in limulus striated muscle

Skinned tail and leg muscle fibers of the limulus were used to study the mechanism of Ca2+ regulation of contraction. Although a Ca2+-sensitive 31,000 dalton protein phosphorylation could be observed in the presence of [gamma-32P] ATP no such phosphorylation occurred in the presence of [gamma-32P] ITP. Ca2+-activated tension occurred equally as well in ATP and ITP. For this reason we eliminated the possibility that a Ca2+-sensitive myosin light chain kinase/phosphatase system is the mechanism responsible for the Ca2+-activated tension. Other agents known to affect a myosin light chain kinase/phosphatase system showed negative results (ATP gamma S, trifluoperazine, catalytic subunit of the cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate dependent protein kinase and calmodulin). Troponin I reversibly inhibits Ca2+-activated tension. These results are consistent with thin filament regulation being responsible for Ca2+-activated tension in skinned fibers.