cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Culture and Prosperity: The Truth about Markets: Why Some Nations Are Rich but Most Remain Poor

A witty and accessible tour de force that is immersed in the latest economic thinking, Culture and Prosperity is an indispensable guide to the world around us and destined to become a classic text for understanding the politics of globalization.Guided by the belief that a combination of lightly regulated capitalism and liberal democracy -- the American business model -- is not just appropriate for America at the dawn of the twenty-first century, but a universal path to freedom and prosperity, the United States is an unrivaled colossus seeking to remake the world in its own image. After a decade of successive market revolutions around the world, beginning with the collapse of the Berlin Wall and continuing in countries as diverse as Argentina and New Zealand, the effectiveness of the market economy as a route to prosperity and growth is not in question, but a more sophisticated appreciation of the strengths and limits of markets is urgently required.In this new and illuminating analysis of the nature and evolution of the market economy, John Kay attacks the oversimplified account of its operation, contained in the American business model and favored by politicians and business people. He even questions whether it offers an accurate description of the success of the American economy itself.In an absorbing argument that rewards close reading, and rereading, Culture and Prosperity examines every assumption we have about economic life from a refreshingly new angle. Taking the reader from the shores of Lake Zurich to the streets of Mumbai, from the flower market of San Remo to the sales rooms at Christie's, John Kay reveals the connection between a nation's social, political, and cultural context and its economic performance.
Theorizing violence in the Responsibility to Protect

This article argues that the guidelines in the Responsibility to Protect, and the later findings of the High Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change, do not substantively explore the problematic relationship between intrastate violence, the sovereign state, and humanitarian interventions relationship to war in the violence to which it is responding. Without looking at these complex relationships, international intervention for humanitarian purposes, as defined by the Responsibility to Protect, will not be able to truly answer sovereign intrastate violence, as it never fully identifies the processes that are producing that violence.
Studies on the mode of action of spinosad : Insect symptoms and physiological correlates

This is the first in a series of reports that define the novel mode of action of spinosyns, a new class of macrocyclic lactone natural products for insect control. Spinosyn A, the major active component of spinosad, was used as a model for these studies. Spinosyn A initially caused involuntary muscle contractions and tremors by widespread excitation of neurons in the central nervous system. Spinosyn A also caused excitation when applied directly to isolated insect ganglia at submicromolar concentrations. Prolonged spinosyn-induced hyperexcitation resulted in paralysis that was associated with neuromuscular fatigue. However, spinosyn A had no direct neuromuscular depressant effect and at very high concentrations actually enhanced neuromuscular transmission.
Adrenal insufficiency from bilateral adrenal hemorrhage after total knee replacement surgery

Adrenal hemorrhage is a rare cause of adrenal insufficiency in adults. We examine the incidence, etiology, diagnosis, and therapy of adrenal insufficiency secondary to adrenal hemorrhage. This case illustrates the nonspecific presentation of adrenal insufficiency and the necessity of maintaining a high index of suspicion in a clinically confusing scenario.
Genetic expression profiles of adult and pediatric ependymomas: Molecular pathways, prognostic indicators, and therapeutic targets

Abstract Ependymomas are tumors that can present within either the intracranial or spinal regions. While 90% of all pediatric ependymomas are intracranial, spinal cord ependymomas are more commonly found in patients 20–40 years old. Treatment for spinal lesions has achieved local control rates up to 100% following gross total resection, while pediatric intracranial tumors have 40–60% mortality. Given the inability to effectively treat ependymomas with current standard practices, researchers have focused their efforts on evaluating chromosomal alterations, genetic expression profiles, epigenetic events, and molecular pathways. While these studies have provided critical insight into the potential mechanisms underlying ependymoma pathogenesis, understanding of the intricate interplay between the various pathways involved in tumor initiation, development, and progression will require deeper investigation. However, several potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets have been identified, providing key areas of focus for future research. The utilization of unique genetic expression profiles based upon patient age, tumor location, tumor grade, and subtype has revealed a multitude of findings warranting further study. Inspection of various molecular pathways associated with ependymomas may establish the foundation for developing novel therapies capable of achieving significant clinical improvements with individualized regimens specifically designed for personalized treatment strategies.
Flow-induced regulation of brain endothelial cells in vitro

Endothelial cell (EC) function and susceptibility to vascular disease are regulated by flow; this relationship has been modeled in systemic, but not cerebrovascular, EC culture. We studied the effects of unidirectional flow of medium, produced by orbital rotation of cultures, on morphology and protein expression in bEnd.3 mouse brain ECs. Flow altered the expression of key transcription factors and gasotransmitter-synthesizing enzymes, and increased NO production. Statins and angiotensin receptor blockers reproduced the effect of flow on endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression. Thus, flow modified brain EC properties and function in vitro, with similarities and possible differences compared to previous studies on systemic ECs. Thus, the effect of flow on brain ECs can be modeled in vitro and may assist the investigation of mechanisms of cerebrovascular disease.
Why can't mice just learn to pant?

assessment of airway function in the mouse has become a critical need for many investigations of asthma and other lung diseases involving airways. Although there are several methods available to quantify airway function in anesthetized mice that are subsequently killed, there are obvious advantages
On temperature inversions and the mesospheric surf zone

[1] Mesospheric thermal inversions are investigated in a numerical simulation with the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model, an upward extension of the National Center for Atmospheric Research's Community Climate Model. The seasonal character, spatial extent, and magnitude of the inversion layers are realistic during winter. In the model, the occurrence of wintertime inversions is a direct consequence of the rapid decay with height of vertically propagating planetary waves, which induces large temperature perturbations in the upper mesosphere to maintain hydrostatic equilibrium. The magnitude of the inversions is highly correlated with planetary wave amplitude, so that large inversions develop during episodes of planetary wave amplification. Gravity waves do not play a major direct role in the formation of the inversions because the largest thermal tendencies associated with gravity wave breaking occur well above the range of altitudes where inversions are found. However, gravity waves play an essential indirect role because they set up a critical line in the upper mesosphere where Rossby waves break in the mesospheric surf zone.
Definition of the developmental transition from dopaminergic to photic regulation of c-fos gene expression in the rat suprachiasmatic nucleus

D1-dopamine receptor stimulation induces c-fos gene expression in the fetal suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), but not in the adult rat SCN. Light exposure at night induces c-fos gene expression in the adult SCN. The present experiments were designed to define the developmental transition from dopaminergic to photic regulation of c-fos gene expression in the SCN. Treatment with the D1-dopamine receptor agonist SKF 38393 (10 mg/kg) increased SCN c-fos gene expression during both day and night on postnatal day (PD) 0, 1, and at night on PD 2, but the c-fos response disappeared by PD 4. Photic induction of c-fos gene expression was apparent during both day and night at each age examined, from PD 0 through PD 6. The magnitude and distribution of c-fos expression following light during the daytime was distinguishable from the response to light at night beginning on PD 2, indicating that the circadian clock regulates (gates) the c-fos response by PD 2. Orbital enucleation prevents the induction of c-fos by light at night on PD 2, indicating retinal mediation. Developmental loss of the c-fos response to SKF is not precipitated by the arrival of the retinohypothalamic tract; animals enucleated on PD 0 were insensitive to SKF on PD 6, as were visually intact controls. The results demonstrate that both dopaminergic and photic inputs can regulate SCN c-fos gene expression early in the neonatal period, and that the developmental loss of sensitivity to SKF is not due to the arrival of photic input to the SCN. The developmental transition from dopaminergic to photic regulation of c-fos gene expression roughly parallels the developmental transition from maternal to photic entrainment of the developing biological clock.
Purification and properties of human liver monoamine oxidase

Abstract Human liver monoamine oxidase [monoamine: O 2 oxidoreductase (deaminating), E. C. 1.4.3.4] was purified by a method which does not depend on the isolation of mitochondria, and in which vacuum dialysis, during which the enzyme separates out as a yellow precipitate, is an important step in purification. By this method a final specific activity of 550 and fold purification of 40 was attained. A single peak was obtained with the analytical ultracentrifuge, and a sedimentation constant of 6.78S noted. A single active band was observed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The enzyme exhibits optimum activity at pH 8.7, with no activity below pH 5.5 or above pH 11.8. Using benzylamine hydrobromide as the substrate, in 0.05 m phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) at 27 °C, the Michaelis constant was found to be 1.7 × 10 −3 m . The enzyme, which is quite stable, is a flavo-protein, as shown by absorption and fluorescence spectra. The C-terminal group is glycine. The molecular weight, as determined by SDS polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis, is 64,000. Repeated attempts to determine the N-terminal group were unsuccessful.
Selectivities of Potassium-Calcium and Potassium-Lead Exchange in Two Tropical Soils

Measurement of cation selectivity in soils provides important information about the affinity and binding strength of a particular cation on soil surfaces. Gaines-Thomas (K GT ) selectivity coefficients were determined for a variety of K/Ca and K/Pb ratios on an Oxisol and Ultisol soil from Puerto Rico. The calculated K GT values indicated a preference for K + over Ca 2+ or Pb 2+ . The selectivity for Pb 2+ was significantly greater than that for Ca 2+ due to Pb 2+ 's larger hydrated charge density relative to that of Ca 2+ . The patterns of selectivity were independent of metal type. The selectivity of the Oxisol for Ca 2+ or Pb 2+ exhibited no trend and changed little with changes in divalent metal surface coverage. The Ultisol displayed a decrease in selectivity for Ca 2+ and Pb 2+ with increasing surface coverage of these ions. This was attributed to the presence of smectite in the Ultisol, which was able to partially collapse when K + saturated. Some of the Pb sorption in the soils was due to chemisorption. The Oxisol chemisorbed 3000 mg Pb kg -1 while that value for the Ultisol was 1900 mg kg -1 . The differences were due to the greater quantities of Fe/Al oxides and organic matter in the Oxisol relative to the Ultisol. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) spectroscopy detected discrete Pb-C phase in both soils. The C was from organic matter. Under experimental conditions, any Pb-carbonate phase would not have been stable. It was possible Pb was associated with organic sulfhydral groups. The selectivity exhibited by soil systems for various nutrient and heavy metals is important in elucidating how available these metals will be for plant/animal uptake as well as their mobility and stability in the soil environment.
Cu(II) incorporation in κ-(ET)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br

Abstract Analyses of CuBr and CuN(CN)2 used in the preparation of κ-(ET)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br reveal both magnetic (1–42 ppm) and nonmagnetic (1–5%) contaminants. Markedly different resistivity profiles are obtained for κ-(ET)2[Cu[N(CN)2]Br samples prepared from various Cu(I) sources; some profiles show little or no resistive hump near 100 K. Rotating disk voltammetry studies indicate that the E1/2 values for ET and the Cu[N(CN)2]Br anion are similar. Accordingly, considerable quantities of Cu(II) must be produced during the electrochemical synthesis of κ-(ET)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br. Whether Cu(II) that is generated in this manner is incorporated into κ-(ET)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br is under investigation.
Gynecologic Simulation Training Increases Medical Student Confidence and Interest in Women's Health

Background: Exposure to commonly performed gynecologic procedures via simulation has potential to improve medical student knowledge and foster confidence with procedures. Purposes: To implement and evaluate a gynecologic simulation curriculum for 3rd-year medical students during their obstetrics and gynecology core clerkship. Methods: A gynecologic simulation curriculum was implemented for medical students during their obstetrics and gynecology clerkship. Participants completed pre-and postsurveys to assess learner confidence; effect on interest in a surgical field, women's health, and obstetrics and gynecology as a career; and whether the session met their learning needs. Results: Fifty-nine students participated. Improved confidence in performing the procedures was noted when comparing mean survey scores before and after the simulation for IUD insertion and removal (1.9 pre, 4.3 post, p < .0001), for dilatation and curettage (1.7 pre, 3.8 post, p < .0001), and basic laparoscopy skills (2.1 pre, 4.3 post...
Healing of Charcot fractures: skin temperature and radiographic correlates

Abstract We explored whether skin temperature, measured with an infrared thermometer, is useful in managing Charcot fractures. Seventy patients with active Charcot fractures were enrolled. Of these, 64 were excluded from further analysis because of factors deemed likely to confound skin temperature measurement, i.e. most skin lesions. Radiographs were obtained using a standardized weight bearing protocol and interpreted by formal criteria. Patients were treated with a walking total contact cast for approximately 6 months and PTB bracing thereafter. The temperature of the affected feet was elevated compared to the contralateral feet at presentation (difference of 4.25±1.63°C). This decreased on average at 0.022°C/day ( r =0.5), giving an intercept of 0°C difference at 147±75 days. However, there was too much variability in the individual data even in these highly selected patients to give any correlation between skin temperature and radiographs in individuals. Radiographic worsening ended by 3–6 months. Radiographic healing began by 3–6 months and continued after the change from casting to bracing. We conclude that skin cooling occurs with treatment of active Charcot fractures, but many patients have other events that confound skin temperature measurement, and even in patients without such confounding factors individual skin temperatures are too variable to be clinically useful.
The mediating role of mindful entrepreneurial marketing (MEM) between production and consumption

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to introduce and explore the tenets of the mindful entrepreneurial marketing (MEM) construct and to illustrate its mediation effect between production and consumption. Design/methodology/approach – Based on the existing mindfulness and entrepreneurial marketing research, this paper explores tenets of MEM and presents a basic taxonomy to identify mindful production and consumption practices, and opportunities for MEM initiatives. Findings – The study proposes that the combination of mindfulness and entrepreneurial marketing approach provides an ideal match where both consumers and mindful producers can become more mindful and prosper. As a new construct, MEM has the potential to alleviate lack of consumption, to create awareness about overconsumption and, ultimately, to enhance societal welfare by increasing the efficiency of markets by enabling more effective usage of society’s resources. Originality/value – This paper is the first study that focuses on the MEM const...
Predicting Cognitive Impairment in High-Functioning Community-Dwelling Older Persons: MacArthur Studies of Successful Aging

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether simple cognitive tests, when applied to cognitively intact older persons, are useful predictors of cognitive impairment 7 years later. DESIGN: Cohort study. SETTING: Durham, North Carolina; East Boston, Massachusetts; and New Haven, Connecticut, areas that are part of the National Institute on Aging Established Populations for Epidemiological Studies of the Elderly. PARTICIPANTS: Participants, aged 70 to 79, from three community-based studies, who were in the top third of this age group, based on physical and cognitive functional status. MEASUREMENTS: New onset of cognitive impairment as defined by a score of less than 7 on the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ) in 1995. RESULTS: At 7 years, 21.8% (149 of 684 subjects) scored lower than 7 on the SPMSQ. Using multivariate logistic regression, three baseline (1988) cognitive tests predicted impairment in 1995. These included two simple tests of delayed recall—the ability to remember up to six items from a short story and up to 18 words from recall of Boston Naming Test items. For each story item missed, the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for cognitive impairment was 1.44 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.16–1.78, P < .001). For each missed item from the word list, the AOR was 1.20 (95% CI = 1.09–1.31, P < .001). The Delayed Recognition Span, which assesses nonverbal memory, also predicted cognitive impairment, albeit less strongly (odds ratio = 1.06 per each missed answer, 95% CI = 1.003–1.13, P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies measures of delayed recall and recognition as significant early predictors of subsequent cognitive decline in high-functioning older persons. Future efforts to identify those at greatest risk of cognitive impairment may benefit by including these measures.
Abscission: support for a role of ethylene modification of auxin transport.

Three types of whole plant experiments are presented to substantiate the concept that an important function of ethylene in abscission is to reduce the transport of auxin from the leaf to the abscission zone. ( a ) The inhibitory effect of ethylene on auxin transport, like ethylene-stimulated abscission, persists only as long as the gas is continuously present. Cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L. cv. Stoneville 213) and bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Resistant Black Valentine) plants placed in 14 μl/l of ethylene for 24 or 48 hours showed an increase in leaf abscission and a reduced capacity to transport auxin; but when returned to air, auxin transport gradually increased and abscission ceased. ( b ) Ethylene-induced abscission and auxin transport inhibition show similar sensitivities to temperature. A 24-hour exposure of cotton plants to 14 μl/l of ethylene at 8 C resulted in no abscission and no significant inhibition of auxin transport. Increasing the temperature during ethylene treatment resulted in a progressively greater reduction in auxin transport with abscission occurring at [unk]27 C where auxin transport was inhibited over 70%. ( c ) Auxin pretreatment reduced both ethylene-induced abscission and auxin transport inhibition. No abscission occurred, and auxin transport was inhibited only 18% in cotton plants which were pretreated with 250 mg/l of naphthalene acetic acid and then placed in 14 μl/l of ethylene for 24 hours. In contrast, over 30% abscission occurred, and auxin transport was inhibited 58% in the corresponding control plants. Collectively, the results presented here and elsewhere indicate that ethylene regulates the sensitivity of the cells in the abscission zone to the more direct actions of the gas ( e.g. , enzyme induction, secretion) by reducing auxin transport.
The behavior inventory for rating development (BIRD): assessments of reliability and factorial validity.

In an earlier investigation ( Sparrow & Cicchetti, 1978 ) the authors assessed the reliability and validity of a new instrument for assessing types and levels of adaptive behaviors. Although there was strong evidence for both, the sample was small (N= ≤45) and consisted only of institutionalized mentally retarded children. The current investigation included a much larger sample of non-institutionalized mentally retarded and other developmentally disabled subjects. As previously, results indicated reliability levels between “good” and “excellent” for most items (e.g., the criteria of Cicchetti & Sparrow, 1981 ). Also, factor analyses were performed to determine the correlation between the resulting factors and an a priori classification of the BIRD into several areas (subscales) of adaptive behavior (Cognitive Development, Self-Help, Physical Development, Social Behavior, Self-Control). As before, a 4 factor oblique solution was interpretable in terms of a 4 subscale classification of BIRD items (Cognitive Development, Physical Development, Social Behavior, and Self-Control).
Anticonvulsant profile of a balanced ketogenic diet in acute mouse seizure models

Anticonvulsant effects of the ketogenic diet (KD) have been reported in the mouse, although previous studies did not control for intake of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of balanced ketogenic and control diets in acute mouse seizure models. The behavior in four mouse seizure models, plasma d-beta-hydroxybutyrate (d-BHB) and glucose levels were determined after feeding control diet, 4:1 and 6:1 KDs with matched vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Feeding 4:1 and 6:1 KDs ad lib to 3-week-old (adolescent) mice resulted in 1.2-2.2mM d-BHB in plasma, but did not consistently change glucose levels. The 6:1 KD reproducibly elevated the CC50 (current that initiates seizures in 50% mice tested) in the 6-Hz model after 14 days of feeding to adolescent CD1 mice. Higher plasma d-BHB levels correlated with anticonvulsant effects. Despite ketosis, no consistent anticonvulsant effects of KDs were found in the fluorothyl or pentylenetetrazole CD1 mouse models. The 4:1 KD was neither anticonvulsant nor neuroprotective in hippocampus in the C3H mouse kainate model. Taken together, the KD's anticonvulsant effect was limited to the 6-Hz model, required chronic feeding with 6:1 fat content, and was independent from lowering plasma glucose.
Memory remembered: 1970–1991

Substantial changes in our knowledge of the neurologic and cognitive processes underlying memory disorders have occurred between 1970 and 1991. Models of memory stressing consolidation, retrieval, and executive processes have had a positive effect on the way memory disorders are assessed in the clinical setting. The memory tests available today are superior to those used in the 1970s in terms of their sensitivity and selectivity. Similarly, cognitive psychologists have successfully used clinical patients to evaluate the validity of their models derived from normal subjects. It is concluded that cognitive and clinical psychology are not disparate fields; rather, the two have been highly interdependent in a positive manner.
On tail estimation: An improved method

A step is described toward better statistical treatment of data for tail estimation. The classical extreme value theory together with its practical inefficiency for tail inference are discussed briefly. The threshold method that utilizes available information in a more efficient manner is described, and its relation to extreme value theory is mentioned. Some comparison is also made using two sets of published data.
A phase 2 trial of once-weekly hypofractionated breast irradiation: first report of acute toxicity, feasibility, and patient satisfaction.

Purpose To report on early results of a single-institution phase 2 trial of a 5-fraction, once-weekly radiation therapy regimen for patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery (BCS). Methods and Materials Patients who underwent BCS for American Joint Committee on Cancer stage 0, I, or II breast cancer with negative surgical margins were eligible to receive whole breast radiation therapy to a dose of 30 Gy in 5 weekly fractions of 6 Gy with or without an additional boost. Elective nodal irradiation was not permitted. There were no restrictions on breast size or the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy for otherwise eligible patients. Patients were assessed at baseline, treatment completion, and at first posttreatment follow-up to assess acute toxicity (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0) and quality of life (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-BR23). Results Between January and September 2011, 42 eligible patients underwent weekly hypofractionated breast irradiation immediately following BCS (69.0%) or at the conclusion of cytotoxic chemotherapy (31.0%). The rates of grade ≥2 radiation-induced dermatitis, pain, fatigue, and breast edema were 19.0%, 11.9%, 9.5%, and 2.4%, respectively. Only 1 grade 3 toxicity—pain requiring a course of narcotic analgesics—was observed. One patient developed a superficial cellulitis (grade 2), which resolved with the use of oral antibiotics. Patient-reported moderate-to-major breast symptoms (pain, swelling, and skin problems), all decreased from baseline through 1 month, whereas breast sensitivity remained stable over the study period. Conclusions The tolerance of weekly hypofractionated breast irradiation compares well with recent reports of daily hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation schedules. The regimen appears feasible and cost-effective. Additional follow-up with continued accrual is needed to assess late toxicity, cosmesis, and disease-specific outcomes.
Pair Collaboration in End-User Debugging

The problem of dependability in end-user programming is an emerging area of interest. Pair collaboration in end-user software development may offer a way for end users to debug their programs more effectively. While pair programming studies - primarily of computer science students and professionals - report positive outcomes in terms of overall program quality, little is known about specific activities that pairs engage in that lead to those outcomes, or of how the previous results may pertain to end-user programmers. In this paper we analyze protocols of end-user pairs debugging spreadsheets. The results suggest that end-user pairs can achieve rich reasoning, effective planning, and systematic evaluation. Furthermore, end-user pairs provide specific types of mutual support that facilitate the accomplishment of their goals
Does Music Instruction Help Children Learn to Read? Evidence of a Meta-Analysis

This meta-analysis of 30 studies using a variety of music interventions to affect reading skills resulted in a moderately strong, significant, overall effect size of d = .32. When music activities incorporate specific reading skills matched to the needs of identified children (d = .44) or contingent music is used to reinforce reading behavior (d = .66), benefits are large. The music activities that pair alphabet recognition with phonetic patterns, incorporate word segmentation and sound blending skills, and promote rapid decoding skills are effective in enhancing reading instruction and require little transfer to the assessment methodology. Benefits are greater when the special music reading activities are added to an existing music education curriculum than when replacing it. All schedules of intervention are equally effective regardless of whether daily, intense, short-term, or weekly periodic intervention spread across the school year.
Stereoscopic Vision: Cortical Limitations and a Disparity Scaling Effect

The spatial limitations of stereoscopic vision were studied by using vertical line stimuli containing sinusoidal disparity variations such that different parts of the line appeared at different depths. Stimuli with a finer grain than about 3 cycles per degree did not elicit depth perception, even though the sinusoidal curvature was clearly visible monocularly. At low spatial frequencies of curvature, stereoacuity was limited to the same extent as the monocular sensitivity. The limiting disparity for Panum's fusional region and the upper depth limit are subject to a scaling effect in proportion to stimulus dimensions. The disparity scaling can be characterized by a fixed maximum angular difference between the parts of the stereoscopic half-images.
Direct variational solutions for linear dissipative networks

Three Lagrangians for dissipative linear systems (the multiplier, the image, and the Lagrangian functional) are scrutinized as bases for obtaining approximate solutions via direct methods of variational calculus. Approximate solutions for a linear one-dimensional dissipative oscillator are compared with the exact solution in order to determine the accuracy of the approximations provided by the three Lagrangians. The test functions, in the form of a one-parameter family of cubic parabolas, provide generally satisfactory solutions. >
Visualization of the renal vein during pyelography after nephrostomy: a case report

Introduction We present a case of pyelovenous backflow after nephrostomy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of renal vein visualization after a nephrostomic placement.
A choline-rich diet improves survival in a rat model of endotoxin shock

This study investigated whether dietary choline can prevent endotoxin shock. Female Sprague-Dawley rats fed chow or chow plus choline chloride (0.025–0.4%) for 3 days were given lipopolysaccharide ...
Thermal refraction defocusing in very-large-core step-index antiguided fiber lasers

Thermal refraction defocusing in very-large-core step-index antiguided fibers is investigated theoretically. Recent analytical methods based on a zero-field approximation for studying the effects of thermal focusing are extended and applied to the defocusing effects that occur in laser media with negative temperature coefficient of refractive index. Intermediate values of thermal defocusing tend to flatten the radial intensity distribution, while strong thermal defocusing is shown to concentrate the intensity near the antiguiding core–cladding boundary. The same analysis is also applicable for very-large-core graded-index fibers with a divergent parabolic index profile.
Airway Gastric Fistula After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

Airway gastric fistula formation is a rare and complex complication after esophagectomy. Clinical presentations vary, making a uniform approach to treatment not possible. Recently, nonsurgical approaches have been reported using various types of airway stents. However, the usefulness of airway stenting in the treatment of airway gastric fistula is relatively unknown. We present a patient with hemoptysis, respiratory failure, and an enlarging left mainstem bronchogastric fistula after esophagectomy. The patient's symptoms were temporized by the placement of a silicone stent.
Total plasma homocysteine and primary open-angle glaucoma

Abstract Purpose To evaluate total plasma homocysteine (tHcy) levels in patients diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal subjects. Design Case-control study. Methods This study involved 55 POAG patients, 16 patients with secondary open-angle glaucoma or angle-closure glaucoma (non-POAG group), and 39 control healthy subjects undergoing ocular surgery. All glaucoma patients had characteristic glaucomatous optic disk damage and visual field loss. Fasting tHcy concentrations of all study participants were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Analysis of variance was used to compare homocysteine levels among the three diagnostic groups, and multivariate analysis was conducted to assess the associations between tHcy and diagnostic group, age, gender, smoking status, systemic hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Results Mean ± standard deviation of tHcy levels in POAG individuals, non-POAG patients and control subjects was 14.90 ± 6.45 μmol/l, 14.30 ± 4.35 μmol/l, and 14.81 ± 4.56 μmol/l, respectively ( P = .93; ANOVA). No statistically significant difference was found in the proportion of patients with abnormal tHcy levels among the three diagnostic groups. In multivariate analysis, only age and positive smoking status were significantly correlated with total plasma homocysteine levels. Conclusion No significant difference was found in plasma homocysteine levels among POAG patients and normal control individuals.
Age-related changes in calcium and phosphorus uptake by rat small intestine.

Abstract The purpose of these experiments was to determine whether there are changes in intestinal Ca and P uptake with age and whether the regulation of Ca and P uptake changes with age. Experiments were performed in male Fischer 344 rats aged 2–3 months (young), 12–14 months (adult) and 22–24 months (old). Ca and P uptake were measured simultaneously by incubating everted intestinal sacs in a buffered salt solution containing radiolabeled 0.25 mM Ca and 1.0 mM P for 15 min. Ca uptake declined by over 50% with age in the duodenum, and P uptake showed a similar decline in both the duodenum and jejunum. The biggest decrease was seen between the young and adult age groups. These decreases in uptake were paralleled by decreases in serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D with age. Administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D-3 increased Ca uptake by 50–65% in the duodenum and increased P uptake by 85–120% in the duodenum and jejunum of both young and adult rats. Although 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D-3 increased uptake by about the same percentage in each age group, the maximal uptake was much greater in the young than in the adult. Feeding a low-Ca diet increased duodenal Ca uptake by 68% and increased serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D over 2-fold in young rats. There was no significant increase in either parameter in adult rats fed a low-Ca diet. However, duodenal P uptake was stimulated by a low-Ca diet by 87% in young rats and by 51% in adult rats. These results demonstrate that there is an age-related decline in Ca and P uptake by the intestinal mucosa. In addition, there is decreased capacity of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D-3 and a low-Ca diet to stimulate intestinal uptake in the adult.
Conservation Of Radiative Power Transfer At An Opaque Diffuse Sureace

At microwave wavelengths it is assumed that the absorptivity of a surface is equal to its emissivity, whereas in thermal radiation problems entailing infrared wavelengths the surface absorptivity is often considerably smaller than its emissivity. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the method of describing and quantifying the conservation of radiative power transfer at an opaque diffuse surface for a wide range of wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum. For power (or energy) conservation of radiation transfer at an opaque diffuse surface, the amount of power scattered must be equal to the difference between the incident power and the absorbed power. The incident power should include active hnd background radiation sources, if significant. Both orthogonal polarizations, the entire electromagnetic spectrum and all incident directions at the surface must be considered. Usually the scattered or emitted power from a surface is collected by a remotely located finite aperture sensor in a specified direction. The sensor response is usually limited in wavelength, bandwidth and polarization Thus, to determine the total power scattered by and emitted from a diffuse surface, a multiple integration is involved to cover all spatial directions, all wavelengths and both polarizations. In the usual experiment, the receiver is designed to select either This selective design simplifies a) active signals reflected by a surface or b) passive thermal signals emitted and reflected by the surface. the interpretation of the measurements. The absorption of power or absorptivity nt heats the surface. Some of this power is thermally radiated or emitted, thus cooling the surface due to its emissivity E in accordance with Planck's radiation law. The remainder of the absorbed power is conducted beneath the surface. With constant incident power, the surface will eventually reach an equilibrium temperature, and Kirchhoff's law states that emissivity is equal to absorptivity.
Global Imbalances and Financial Crisis: Financial Globalization as a Common Cause

Global imbalances and global financial instability are tightly connected and can be traced to a common cause, that is, financial globalization within the current monetary and financial system. The paper argues that financial globalization contributes to global imbalances by impeding real exchange adjustments, inducing export-led growth, and sustaining widening deficits in the financial core country. Meanwhile, financial globalization leads to increasing global financial instability. Without a true international clearing union, the United States is charged with providing global liquidity and managing financial risks; but the failure of the United States to provide these essential banking services ultimately brought about the 2008 global financial crisis.
A nonlinear spectrum compression algorithm for the hearing impaired

A technique is proposed for increasing the speech intelligibility of persons with profound sensorineural hearing loss. The processing is based on a modification of the chirp-z transform that allows for nonlinear sampling along an arbitrary contour of the z-plane. Although the theory allows the nonlinear sampling to be arbitrary, an example showing that it is appropriate for nonlinear spectrum compression to aid the hearing-impaired is given. Samples are linearly spaced along the unit circle for a specified low-frequency segment; beyond the break-point the samples are nonlinearly spaced, perhaps spiraling inward to enhance spectral peaks, with the spacing width increasing with increasing frequency following an exponential function. A standard inverse DFT of these frequency samples returns the spectrum-compressed sequence. Processing of continuous speech requires windowing and processing of data in a manner similar to the short-time Fourier transform (STFT). The authors present the theoretical basis for, and development of, the algorithm. >
Temporal Sampling Requirements for Automatic Rain Gauges

Abstract Automatic rain gauges are needed to obtain rainfall statistics from remote locations and platforms. Many of these platforms cannot be serviced regularly, thus requiring unattended operations for many months. At such locations there is often a power consumption limitation requiring that the instrument operate at a fractional duty cycle. For instruments that measure rainfall rate rather than rainfall accumulation, both components of duty cycle—sample duration and sample interval—need to be considered. A 17-month-long record of rainfall was recorded in Miami, Florida. This location is subtropical and has an annual rainy season. These data are subsampled using different duty cycles to assess resulting sampling error. Using 1-min rainfall-rate samples, a duty cycle of 10% produces an expected standard deviation in monthly rainfall accumulation equal to 10% of the mean accumulation. This relationship held true for 15 of the 17 months of data. Two months with very low total accumulations (November 1993 ...
Student Interaction with Online Course Content: Build It and They Might Come

Online learning continues to expand at educational institutions around the globe. Educators must better understand how interaction with online course content impacts student engagement and learning. Advances in technology amplify the imperative to gain further insights into how delivery of course materials can enhance and support the learning process. This study investigates student patterns of access to instructional resources provided in an asynchronous online digital literacy course offered at a regional university in the United States. Frequency counts and access rates collected from a learning management system were used to assess patterns of student retrieval of course materials in four categories: core materials, direct support, indirect support and ancillary materials. Results were consistent with student survey responses and indicate that students selectively access course content based upon the degree to which they perceive it will positively influence performance and outcomes on assignments and assessments.
Metachronous Malignant Solitary Fibrous Tumor of Kidney: Case Report and Review of Literature

Solitary fibrous tumors are well described in the pleura, but rare extra-pleural neoplasms have been reported. We describe a patient with a solitary left renal fibrous tumor who after undergoing a nephrectomy, presented 8 years later with a contralateral metachronous solitary fibrous tumor. Malignant metastatic extra-pleural solitary fibrous tumors are extremely rare, and to our knowledge, this is the first case of contralateral recurrence of solitary renal fibrous tumor. The patient underwent a robotic assisted partial nephrectomy of the right renal mass. Both tumors showed overlapping histopathology.
Marketing of turmeric in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra.

The present study attempts to examine the marketing of turmeric in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra state, India. Primary data for the study were collected through a sample of 60 turmeric producers in the study area during year 2011-12. Data were collected by personal interview in a specially designed schedule. In the study area, following marketing channels have been observed. Channel I: Producer −> Consumer, Channel II: Producer −> Village trader −>Consumer,Channel-III: Producer −>Village trader −>Wholesaler −>Consumer,Channel IV: Producer −>Village trader−>Wholesaler −> Retailer −> Consumer. Out of four channels, highest quantity was sold through the channel, Producer −> Village trader −>Wholesaler −> Consumer. The net price received by producer in channel-I, channel-II, channel-III and channel IV were Rs.7216.59, Rs. 6813.47, Rs.6650.35 and Rs.6505.64 per qt., respectively. The producer's share in consumer's rupee was highest in channel-I i.e. 99.64 percent.
Abstract OT1-2-01: Circulating tumor DNA in plasma as a surrogate for tumor biopsy to identify tumor genetic alterations in patients with multi-focal metastatic breast cancer

Background: While effective targeted therapies exist for patients with ER/PR + (anti-estrogens) and HER2+ (anti-HER2 agents) disease, and some triple-negative cancers respond to DNA-damaging chemotherapy, many patients eventually exhibit disease refractory to all standard breast cancer therapies, particularly in the metastatic setting. Expanding catalogs of tumor-targeted therapies are being developed, and tumor genetics are playing an increasing role in patient selection. However, tumors can exhibit intra- and inter-tumor genetic heterogeneity. If a biopsied tumor is not genetically reflective of all tumors within a patient, then the optimal therapy may be overlooked. Identifying targetable genetic changes for which there are drugs, using non-invasive procedures, will be an increasing challenge for medical oncologists. One way to potentially overcome this issue is through cell-free circulating tumor DNA, which is detectable in the bloodstream. This study represents the first step in this important process: evaluating plasma DNA as a potential route to non-invasive identification of genetic mutations in patients with metastatic breast cancer with several tumors. Design: Patients with new or progressive metastatic breast cancer with >=3 sites of biopsy-able disease are enrolled. Large bore, large volume blood draw for PT/ INR and plasma DNA will be obtained. Primary tumor will be biopsied if present. Biopsies of >=3 tumors in >=2 different organ sites will be required. Tumor histology and ER/PR/her2 status will be determined. Tumor tissue and plasma will undergo DNA sequencing. Eligibility: Measureable new or progressive metastatic breast cancer by CT and bone scan or PET scan. >=3 sites of disease with >=2 organ sites appropriate for biopsy. Prior therapy allowed, but all specimens must be obtained prior to change in therapy. Primary objective: To determine whether the genetic mutations in plasma DNA are reflective of the genetic mutations present in biopsies of all tumors. Secondary objectives: To determine A) the amount of plasma DNA required to capture all somatic genetic mutations in tumor samples, and B) the extent of genetic heterogeneity between primary and metastatic tumors. Primary endpoint: Rate of genetic concordance between plasma DNA and >=3 tumor within each patient. Present accrual: 2 Target accrual: 10. Citation Format: Mary D Chamberlin, Todd W Miller, Jennifer R Bean, Richard J Barth, Kari M Rosenkranz, Jonathan D Marotti, John M Gemery, Jiang Gui. Circulating tumor DNA in plasma as a surrogate for tumor biopsy to identify tumor genetic alterations in patients with multi-focal metastatic breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Seventh Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2014 Dec 9-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr OT1-2-01.
Short-term cessation of statin therapy does not alter aerobic exercise performance in physically active middle-aged adults

AbstractObjectives: Physically active adults may be especially vulnerable to the adverse muscular side effects of statins. We determined if short-term cessation of statin therapy would improve aerobic exercise performance in middle-aged adults engaged in regular aerobic exercise training. Methods: Physically active middle-aged adults on statin therapy ≥6 mo (n = 16; 58 ± 10 y) or not taking lipid-lowering medications (controls) (n = 19; 51 ± 9 y) completed a peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and time to exhaustion test on a cycle ergometer 2-7 d apart. Tests were repeated following 1 mo of statin cessation or a 1 mo period for controls. Questionnaires were administered to assess exercise history and muscle complaints. Results: Statin users reported little or no muscle complaints and participation in aerobic exercise was similar between groups (p≥0.13). The lower VO2peak (37.3 ± 9.0 vs. 43.1 ± 4.9 ml/kg/min; p = 0.02) and time to exhaustion (21.9 ± 4.4 vs. 26.0 ± 6.3 min; p = 0.04) in statin users versus c...