cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinician Gestalt in Managing Pediatric Pneumonia: Can We Predict the Future?

* Abbreviation: CAP — : community acquired pneumonia > It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future. > > Yogi Berra In this issue of Pediatrics , Gao et al1 examine the value of clinical gestalt in predicting the progression to severe disease in children presenting to an urban pediatric emergency department with suspected community acquired pneumonia (CAP). CAP is one of the most common serious infections of childhood, accounting for ∼2 million annual ambulatory visits and 124 000 annual hospitalizations in the United States alone.2–5 Globally, childhood pneumonia accounts for significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.6 Complications of CAP include pleural effusions, empyema, sepsis, and others that may require additional procedures, ICU stays, and prolonged antibiotic courses. The management of CAP relies on appropriate diagnosis as well as thoughtful risk stratification to inform decisions, such as antimicrobial choice, patient disposition, and follow-up timing. Clinicians are often required to make these types of diagnoses and initial management decisions on the basis of brief encounters with patients. The impressions made on these visits often rely on a heuristic (ie, shortcut) approach to diagnosis and management. Much of medical decision-making relies on pattern recognition, which can include gestalt, gut feeling, or intuition.7 In this prospective cohort study, pediatric emergency medicine physicians were asked to estimate the probability that patients with suspected pneumonia (based on initial patient encounter and chest radiograph findings) will develop a complicated and/or severe pneumonia.1 The authors found that clinician gestalt was most sensitive (>90%) when the estimate for a complicated pneumonia was low and most specific (>90%) when the probability for complications to develop was judged to be … Address correspondence to Louis M. Bell, MD, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104. E-mail: belll{at}chop.edu
Alison Elwood (Director). (2020). The Women of Troy [Online]. USA: HBO Documentary. 58 min

This film review dives into the HBO documentary highlighting the 1980s women's basetball team at the University of Southern California. It discussed a team that solidified itself in basketball greatness with notable players like Cheryl Miller, and it examined the format in which this information was presented.
Distributed implementation and visualization of small world networks

A program that models the spread of influenza in a SWN (Small World Network, a mathematical description of a population) is expanded to incorporate multiple cities. Since running a single computation of SWN becomes taxing on a computer's resources, a new optimized implementation is written with the expansion of data structures to accommodate multiple cities on multiple computers. The revised algorithm takes advantage of cluster computing. The number of SWN's is only limited to the number of available cluster nodes; each SWN is allocated its own computer. The program allows communication between multiple SWNs. A visualization of multiple SWN's has also been achieved, such that the spread of infection can be viewed; a distributed approach to visualization is also being pursued.
Two Types of Burst Firing in Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone Neurones

Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurones fire spontaneous bursts of action potentials, although little is understood about the underlying mechanisms. In the present study, we report evidence for two types of bursting/oscillation driven by different mechanisms. Properties of these different types are clarified using mathematical modelling and a recently developed active-phase/silent-phase correlation technique. The first type of GnRH neurone (1-2%) exhibits slow (∼0.05 Hz) spontaneous oscillations in membrane potential. Action potential bursts are often observed during oscillation depolarisation, although some oscillations were entirely subthreshold. Oscillations persist after blockade of fast sodium channels with tetrodotoxin (TTX) and blocking receptors for ionotropic fast synaptic transmission, indicating that they are intrinsically generated. In the second type of GnRH neurone, bursts were irregular and TTX caused a stable membrane potential. The two types of bursting cells exhibited distinct active-phase/silent-phase correlation patterns, which is suggestive of distinct mechanisms underlying the rhythms. Further studies of type 1 oscillating cells revealed that the oscillation period was not affected by current or voltage steps, although amplitude was sometimes damped. Oestradiol, an important feedback regulator of GnRH neuronal activity, acutely and markedly altered oscillations, specifically depolarising the oscillation nadir and initiating or increasing firing. Blocking calcium-activated potassium channels, which are rapidly reduced by oestradiol, had a similar effect on oscillations. Kisspeptin, a potent activator of GnRH neurones, translated the oscillation to more depolarised potentials, without altering period or amplitude. These data show that there are at least two distinct types of GnRH neurone bursting patterns with different underlying mechanisms.
Cardiology—In‐Depth Look: Advances in Antiplatelet Therapy

Aspirin, ticlopidine, clopidogrel, and IIb/IIIa inhibitors have been widely used in acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and following bare metal and drug-eluting stent placement. Clopidogrel is superior to aspirin in reducing ischemic vascular events in high-risk patients and has improved gastrointestinal tolerance but is associated with rash, diarrhea, and adverse hematologic outcomes. Combination antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and a thienopyridine is the optimal currently available combination following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and in patients with an ACS. As this chapter will discuss, current advances in the development of new antiplatelet agents will provide a wider selection of therapeutic options for the management of cardiovascular patients. Keywords: acute coronary syndromes (ACS); clopidogrel; percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); antiplatelet therapy; aspirin; ticlopidine
Contraceptive use among single college students

Abstract The extent and type of contraceptive use among 446 single college students was investigated. Since few systematic data have been gathered on premarital contraception, relative adequacy of contraceptive use is difficult to assess. However, the results demonstrate that many students in this sample are using inadequate or no contraception. Action by physicians is cited.
Swarming computer security: an experiment in policy distribution

Despite all the resources invested in research in computer security, researchers and users alike frequently hear reports of security breaches: in many ways, it looks like researchers are loosing the battle against attackers. Furthermore, current trends tend to show that if novel approaches to security problems are not explored, things are likely to get worse, not better. A possible approach that may give security experts the upper hand requires them to examine the fundamental causes of security problems. Is it possible that our security woes exist primarily due to an antiquated approach to solving the problem? In this paper, we argue that the answer is yes: one of the fundamental weaknesses of our collective approach is the static nature of most security systems. We then suggest the use of countermeasures based on a more dynamic approach a la swarm. We concentrate here on the very important issue of security policy updates and show simulation results which demonstrate the promise of our approach.
LQR-Based Control of a Two Zone HCCI Engine Model

With growing environmental concern, automobile energy consumption has become a key element in the current debate on global warming. Over the last two decades, significant research effort has been directed towards developing advanced engine technologies such as HCCI (Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition) that not only lower the exhaust emissions from an automobile, but also offers reprieve from conventional gasoline/diesel usage by promising fuel-flexibility. HCCI offers better engine performance and reduced emissions by emulating the best features of both CI (compression-ignition) and SI (spark-ignition) engines. However, accurate and reliable combustion control of an HCCI engine is an inherently challenging task. Many single-zone control-oriented HCCI models reported in literature fail to accurately estimate the peak pressures, ignition timings, and especially cylinder temperatures. Although certain multi-zone models of HCCI engines based on detail chemical kinetics and fluid mechanics have been developed, such models are too complex for the synthesis of fast and reliable control laws. Thus, considerable research effort has been directed in the present work to develop a physics-based two-zone model of a single-cylinder HCCI engine accounting for temperature and concentration inhomogeneities within the cylinder for better prediction of peak pressures, combustion timings, and exhaust temperatures. The results obtained were in consonance with the computationally intensive multi-zone models. The nonlinear model for peak pressure, ignition timing and exhaust temperature was linearized about an operating point to facilitate the development of an effective LQR (linear quadratic regulator). The model inputs include variable valve timings to effectively control peak pressures, exhaust temperatures and ignition timings.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Contribution of carbonyl photochemistry to aging of atmospheric secondary organic aerosol.

The photodegradation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) material by actinic UV radiation was investigated. SOA was generated via the dark reaction of ozone and d-limonene, collected onto quartz-fiber filters, and exposed to wavelength-tunable radiation. Photochemical production of CO was monitored in situ by infrared cavity ring-down spectroscopy. A number of additional gas-phase products of SOA photodegradation were observed by gas chromatography, including methane, ethene, acetaldehyde, acetone, methanol, and 1-butene. The absorption spectrum of SOA material collected onto CaF2 windows was measured and compared with the photolysis action spectrum for the release of CO, a marker for Norrish type-I photocleavage of carbonyls. Both spectra had a band at ∼300 nm corresponding to the overlapping n f π* transitions in nonconjugated carbonyls. The effective extinction coefficient of freshly prepared SOA was estimated to be on the order of 15 L mol -1 cm -1 at 300 nm, implying one carbonyl group in every SOA constituent. The absorption by the SOA material slowly increased in the visible and near-UV during storage of SOA in open air in the dark, presumably as a result of condensation reactions that increased the degree of conjugation in the SOA constituents. These observations suggest that photolysis of carbonyl functional groups represents a significant sink for monoterpene SOA compounds in the troposphere, with an estimated lifetime of several hours over the continental United States.
Differential detergent fractionation for non-electrophoretic bovine peripheral blood monocyte proteomics reveals proteins involved in professional antigen presentation

Professional antigen presenting cells (APC), dendritic cells (DC) and their myeloid progenitors, monocytes/macrophages are critical controllers of innate and adaptive immunity. Here we show that differential detergent fractionation (DDF) analysis of bovine monocytes reveals proteins related to antigen pattern recognition, uptake and presentation to immunocompetent lymphocytes. We identify 53 bovine proteins involved in immune function of professional APC. In particular, 13 adhesion molecules, three toll-like receptors (TLR1, 6 and 8), three antigen uptake-related proteins (including mannose receptor [MR] precursor), and eight actin-like proteins involved in active endocytosis were identified. In addition, MHC class I and II-related proteins, cytokines, active substances and growth factors have been identified. We conclude that the DDF approach can provide interpretable and meaningful functional information concerning protein expression profiles associated with monocyte activation, transformation into macrophages and/or immature DC, and maturation of monocyte-derived DC in the presence of multiple bovine pathogens.
In situ 40K–40Ca ‘double-plus’ SIMS dating resolves Klokken feldspar 40K–40Ar paradox

Abstract The 40K–40Ca decay system has not been widely utilized as a geochronometer because quantification of radiogenic daughter is difficult except in old, extremely high K/Ca domains. Even these environments have not heretofore been exploited by ion microprobe analysis due to the very high mass resolving power (MRP) of 25,000 required to separate 40K+ from 40Ca+. We introduce a method that utilizes doubly-charged K and Ca species which permits isotopic measurements to be made at relatively low MRP (~ 5000). We used this K–Ca ‘double-plus’ approach to address an enduring controversy in 40Ar/39Ar thermochronology revolving around exsolved alkali feldspars from the 1166 Ma Klokken syenite (southern Greenland). Ion microprobe 40K–40Ca analysis of Klokken samples reveal both isochron and pseudoisochron behaviors that reflect episodic isotopic and chemical exchange of coarsely exsolved perthites and a near end-member K-feldspar until ≤ 719 Ma, and perhaps as late at ~ 400 Ma. Feldspar microtextures in the Klokken syenite evolved over a protracted interval by non-thermal processes (fluid-assisted recrystallization) and thus this sample makes a poor model from which to address the general validity of 40Ar/39Ar thermochronological methodologies.
Rapid quantitative assessment of the pig pancreas biopsy predicts islet yield.

Abstract Background The cost of islet procurement from donor pigs is increased by the use of organs that produce low yields. We developed an assessment system using dithizone-stained pig pancreas biopsies to enable the preselection of donor organs. Methods Pig pancreas biopsy slices were soaked in dithizone solution. The islets were evaluated before islet isolation by converting the islet counts (IC) to islet equivalents (IE), and then determining the IE/cm 2 , IE/IC, % islets >150 μm, and % islets >200 μm. These parameters were evaluated in 3 different areas of the pancreas (duodenal, splenic, and connecting lobe; n = 42 each). Stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to assess for correlations with islet yield and decide which area of the pancreas had the most predictive value. To identify other predictors, including donor and islet isolation variables, we performed binary logistic regression analysis with significant variables from the univariate analysis (n = 67). For this analysis, the pigs were categorized into high (n = 23) and low (n = 44) yield groups. Results Stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that IE/cm 2 of the splenic lobe significantly predicted islet yield. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the IE/mm 2 of the splenic lobe was the only parameter that significantly correlated with successful pig islet isolations ( P = .01; odds ratio 3.605). Variables associated with donor and islet isolation, such as age, gender, ischemic time, or enzyme lot, were not significantly correlated with islet yield. Conclusion Our study suggests that the islet distribution of splenic lobe biopsies can be a reliable predictor of islet yield from pig pancreata.
The effect of bovine insulin on [14C]glucose and [3H]leucine incorporation in fed and fasted rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) ☆

The effect of bovine insulin on tissue incorporation of [14C]glucose and [3H]leucine was investigated in fed and fasted rainbow trout reared on a control and high-protein diet. Insulin produced marked hypoglycemia and mobilization of liver glycogen in all treatments. Although insulin gave no evidence of glycogenic stimulation it did appear to promote oxidative clearance of [14C]glucose. Compared to [14C]glucose much greater tissue incorporation of [3H]leucine was observed in fasted fish; insulin stimulated the incorporation of [3H]leucine into skeletal muscle protein. In plasma, liver, and skeletal muscle of all treatments, the summed specific activities of [3H]leucine was considerably greater than that of the summed values of [14C]glucose following insulin administration. Four weeks of fasting apparently lowered basal metabolism but no changes were observed in plasma glucose and glycogen stores. There was some evidence of gluconeogenic activity in the high protein-fasted fish and the data indicated in all fasted treatments a stimulation of [14C]glucose and [3H]leucine metabolism following insulin administration.
Notes on male and female facial patterns in bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea), with comments on other aculeates

Pallid (frequently yellow) integumental areas characterize faces of many bees and related wasps. Some species lack such markings, others lack them only in females, while others have them in both sexes. A rule applicable to thousands of species is that, if present, yellow areas are more extensive in males than in females. In different groups, yellow areas can be either expanded or reduced, both have occurred repeatedly in the Aculeata. In some groups that lack integumental yellow facial areas, males have brushes of yellow or brassy facial hairs that hide the integument. Behavior associated with presence or abscence of facial yellow areas is not recognized, for mating males usually approach females from above and behind so that neither can see the face of the other. Possibly male-to-male interactions are involved.
Theq-gamma function forq>1

F. H. Jackson defined a generalization of the factorial function by $$1(1 + q)(1 + q + q^2 ) \cdot \cdot \cdot (1 + q + q^2 + \cdot \cdot \cdot + q^{n - 1} ) = (n!)_q $$ forq>0. He also generalized the gamma function, both for 0 1. Askey then obtained analogues of many of the classical facts about theq-gamma function for 0<q<1. He proved an analogue of the Bohr-Mollerup theorem, which states that a logarithmically convex function satisfyingf(1)=1 andf(x+1)=[(q x −1)/(q−1)]f(x) is theq-gamma function. He also considered the behavior of theq-gamma function asq changes, and showed that asq→1−, theq-gamma function becomes the ordinary gamma function. In this paper we will state two analogues of the Bohr-Mollerup theorem forq>1. It turns out that the log convexity off together with the initial condition and the functional equation no longer forcesf to be theq-gamma function. A stronger condition is needed than the log convexity, and two sufficient conditions are given in this paper. Also we will consider the behavior of theq-gamma function asq-changes forq>1.
Forced vibrations of a body supported by hyperelastic shear mountings

The damped, finite-amplitude forced vibration of a rigid body supported symmetrically by simple shear springs and by a smooth inclined bearing surface is studied. The spring material is characterized as a compressible or incompressible, homogeneous and isotropic viscohyperelastic material for which the shear response function in a simple shear deformation is a quadratic function of the amount of shear. The trivial case of constant shear response is included. The equation for the damped motion of the load is a nonlinear, ordinary differential equation of the forced Duffing type with a constant static shift term due to gravity, and for which an exact solution is unknown. An approximate solution is obtained by the method of harmonic balance. Results for the motion of the load relate the system design parameters to the amplitude-frequency response and to the amplitude-driving force intensity response of the system. Regions of stable motion are identified in terms of the amplitude of the motion, driving-force intensity, driving frequency, and system design parameters. Geometrical characterizations of the motion are related schematically to certain cross-sections through the full three-dimensional solution surfaces for the amplitude and for the phase of the motion. A simple diagram maps the loci of all bifurcation points against the static shear deflection, which serves as the system design parameter for the inclined motion. An infinitesimal stability analysis shows that the bifurcation points of the inclined motion fall on the stability boundaries of the numerical solution of a three-parameter Hill equation. The solution provides information that illustrates how the system design parameters affect the motion of the load and how these may be chosen to control the amplitude of the oscillations and the stability of the system. The results are valid for all compressible or incompressible, homogeneous and isotropic, viscohyperelastic materials in the aforementioned class.
Impact of GPS satellite antenna offsets on GPS-based precise orbit determination

Abstract Since the successful demonstration of GPS-based Precise Orbit Determination (POD) on TOPEX/Poseidon in 1992, GPS-based POD for Low-Earth Orbiters (LEO) such as the CHAMP and GRACE satellites has become a popular method. The orbit accuracy of GPS-based POD has been improved from 3 cm to 1 cm in the radial direction. In order to achieve higher-accuracy results, it is necessary to understand and try to reduce the impact of various error sources on the orbits. One of them is the GPS satellite antenna offset. Currently, most GPS data processing institutions are using relative GPS satellite antenna offsets, and there are big differences (meter level) between the antenna offsets. In addition, accurate antenna offset values can be only estimated from processing GPS data currently with an accuracy of cm to dm levels. In this paper, we studied the impact of GPS satellite antenna offsets on GPS-based POD using the different offsets. The results show that the antenna offsets have large effects (a few cm) on the GPS onboard receiver antenna estimation and relatively small effects (about one cm) on the satellite orbit accuracy.
The effect of organic compounds on the crystal habit and crystallization of normal and sickle cell hemoglobin in phosphate buffer.

Abstract Comparative studies were made on the effect of numerous organic compounds in promoting the crystallization of human hemoglobin in 1.9 m phosphate, pH 7.0. It was found that alicyclic or benzenoid structures are essential for promoting crystallization of hemoglobin under these conditions. Hemoglobin crystals prepared in the presence of toluene differed in habit from crystals prepared in its absence. It is suggested that steric factors determine the effectiveness of organic substances in promoting the crystallization of hemoglobin and that the heme group is the binding site involved in the complex formation. The solubility of homozygous sickle cell hemoglobin HbS was found to be less than the heterozygous hemoglobins AS and AC or normal hemoglobin HbA in the presence of organic substances promoting the crystallization of hemoglobin.
The Combined Hyperlipidemia Caused by Impaired Wnt-LRP6 Signaling Is Reversed by Wnt3a Rescue

Summary The underlying molecular genetic basis of combined hyperlipidemia, the most common atherogenic lipid disorder, is poorly characterized. Rare, nonconservative mutations in the Wnt coreceptor, LRP6, underlie autosomal dominant atherosclerosis, combined hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver disease. Mice with LRP6 R611C mutation similarly developed elevated plasma LDL and TG levels and fatty liver. Further investigation showed that LRP6 R611C mutation triggers hepatic de novo lipogenesis, lipid and cholesterol biosynthesis, and apoB secretion by an Sp1-dependent activation of IGF1, AKT, and both mTORC1 and mTORC2. These pathways were normalized after in vitro treatment of primary hepatocytes from LRP6 R611C mice with either the IGF1R antagonist PPP, rapamycin, or rmWnt3a. Strikingly, in vivo administration of rmWnt3a to LRP6 R611C mice normalized the altered expression of enzymes of DNL and cholesterol biosynthesis, and restored plasma TG and LDL levels to normal. These findings identify Wnt signaling as a regulator of plasma lipids and a target for treatment of hyperlipidemia.
Stable isotope labeling method targeting terminal tyrosine for relative peptide quantitation using mass spectrometry.

Abstract Many neuropeptides lack suitable amino acid residues for modification by existing selective isotope labeling methods and use in relative quantitation by mass spectrometry. To address this issue, a new stable isotope labeling method that targets tyrosine residues by coupling with light cysteine (d0) or heavy cysteine (d2) in the presence of tyrosinase was developed. Optimal derivatization conditions for 1 μM leucine-enkephalin were achieved when 10 mM cysteine and 200 U/ml tyrosinase at pH 6.8 to 7.2 were used for a 60-min incubation period at room temperature. Under these conditions, leucine-enkephalin present at concentrations as low as 125 nM was successfully labeled. When comparisons between the lightly labeled (d0) and heavily labeled (d2) forms were made, a discrepancy between the actual concentration ratio and the raw peak intensity ratio was observed; this is due to the overlap of an isotopic peak of the d0 with the monoisotopic peak of d2. Fortunately, this discrepancy can be corrected by one of two simple computational approaches described. The quantitative labeling of this method to neuropeptides with the terminal tyrosine was confirmed and provides an alternative when other selective isotope-coded affinity tagging methods are not suitable.
Remarks on lower semicontinuity and lower closure

In the context of a recent geometric condition of Cesari, used in the reduction of seminormality requirements in lower closure theorems, this paper shows that the existence of a strongly convergent selection from the sequence of orientor fields, under Kuratowski property (K), is adequate to guarantee lower closure theorems. This generalization is justified through examples. Several related remarks are made.
Flashpoints in Interpreting Paul

: In this article, Luther Seminary New Testament scholar Arland Hultgren outlines the unresolved issues of the “New Perspective on Paul”: (1) the question of legalism in pre-Pauline Judaism; (2) justification by faith; and (3) the use of the objective or subjective genitive in the “pistis Christou Debate.” On the question as to whether Luther got Paul right, Hultgren points out a difficulty, namely, those addressing this question frequently fail to designate precisely what they mean by “Lutheran.”
Building an integrated positive psychology

The recent emphasis on positive psychology is welcome, and has spurred much relevant research. But, there are still many unresolved conceptual and research issues, which seem to be increasing rather than decreasing. This highlights the importance of conceptually more detailed and comprehensive approaches, so that development of the field can be hastened by addressing emerging issues definitively. The present paper outlines a potentially useful conceptual approach. The paper concludes with a call for issue-resolving research through which orientations and actions proposed as part of positive psychology can be compared in their contributions to performance and health.
A parallel compilation technique based on grammar partitioning

A new data partitioning scheme for parallel compilation is presented. The scheme is based on partitioning the grammar, which in turn effectively decomposes the language specification into multiple subsets. The scheme requires definition and development of specialized subcompilers. A simple and practical method is suggested for the implementation of such subcompilers using Parser Generators. The proposed scheme is illustrated through an example, using the grammar of Pascal language. A comparison with other methods such as functional decomposition, reveals that the proposed methodology has a larger potential speed-up factor.
Emergency coronary revascularization in a liver transplant recipient

A liver transplant recipient in cardiogenic shock from an acute myocardial infarction and failed coronary angioplasty underwent successful emergency coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Our case is only the fourth documented report of a coronary artery bypass graft in a liver transplant patient and the first conducted on an emergency basis in a patient in cardiogenic shock. Preservation of both cardiac and liver function has been evident in all cases. Based on these findings, liver transplantation should not be a deterrent or contraindication to coronary artery bypass or cardiac surgery.
Robust spectral-domain optical coherence tomography speckle model and its cross-correlation coefficient analysis

In this study, we propose a generic speckle simulation for optical coherence tomography (OCT) signal, by convolving the point-spread function (PSF) of the OCT system with the numerically synthesized random sample field. We validate our model and use the simulation method to study the statistical properties of cross-correlation coefficients between A-scans, which have been recently applied in transverse motion analysis by our group. The results of simulation show that oversampling is essential for accurate motion tracking; exponential decay of OCT signal leads to an underestimate of motion that can be corrected; lateral heterogeneity of sample leads to an overestimate of motion for a few pixels corresponding to the structural boundary.
The random bipartite nearest neighbor graphs

The bipartite kth nearest neighbor graphs Bk are studied. It is shown that B1 has a limiting expected matching number of approximately 80% of its vertices, that with high probability (whp) B2 has at least 2 log n/13 log log n vertices not matched, and that whp B3 does have a perfect matching. We also find a formula for the limiting probability that B2 is connected and show that whp B3 is connected. ©1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 15, 279–310, 1999
Bell's palsy.

To the Editor .—I would like to register an objection to the publication of an article entitled, "Bell's Palsy in Pregnancy," which appeared in the June 1969 issue of theArchives( 89 :830-834). The article, beginning with the opening paragraph, offers generalizations which are not substantiated by the authors' experience, or by references to the work of other authors. This adds confusion rather than clarity to the literature concerning Bell's palsy. Further in the article, the authors refer to "early diagnosis and prognosis provided by electromyography (EMG) and the nerve excitability test...." They "refer the reader to the recent paper by Alford," to support the previous statement. Dr. Alford's article, "Electrodiagnostic Studies in Facial Paralysis" ( Arch Otolaryng 85 :259 [March] 1967) states: "These EMG studies are not useful in determining denervation until many days after onset of paralysis." Drs. Pope and Kenan also suggest that Dr. Alford's article supports the
Prostaglandin-induced release of pituitary gonadotropins: central nervous system and pituitary sites of action.

Prostaglandins were injected either intravenously, intraventricularly, or into the anterior pituitary gland to evaluate their possible participation in the control of gonadotropin release. Their effect on plasma LH and FSH was determined by radioimmunoassay. Intravenous injection of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) produced a slight increase in plasma LH but not FSH in ovariectomized animals. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), PGFlα and PGF2α were ineffective. Third ventricular (3rd V) injections of PGE2 induced a marked increase in plasma LH in ovariectomized rats. The increase was much greater than that observed following iv injection, and PGE1, Flα or F2α were ineffective. A slight increase in plasma FSH also followed 3rd V injection of PGE2. Ovariectomized animals were injected SC 48 hr prior to the experiment with estradiol benzoate (10 µg) to sensitize the pituitary gland to the gonadotropin-releasing factor(s). In these animals 3rd V injections of PGE2 produced a dose-related increase in plasma LH. In addition, a sig...
Success Factors in Public Access Computing for Development

An exploratory, qualitative study in 25 countries around the world identifies success factors for centers that offer public access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The study considered public libraries, telecenters, and cybercafA©s, and grouped the findings into four types of success factors: (1) understand and take care of local needs first, (2) train info mediaries and users, (3) build alliances with other venues and collaborate with other community services, and (4) strengthen sustainability. Results corroborate the findings of previous studies of libraries and of telecenters which identify success factors that include the four themes presented. However, this is the first systematic comparison across multiple countries to identify success factors in different types of public access venues. The findings highlight critical variables to be considered in policy decisions, funding allocations, and program implementation to reach underserved populations in developing countries with equitable access and meaningful use of ICT. They also provide valuable direction for future research to better understand the interactions between libraries, telecenters, and cybercafA©s as venues that can contribute to community development through public access to ICT.
Cross-Cultural Negotiating: A Japanese-American Case Study from Higher Education

This article discusses a cross-cultural negotiation process between a new Japanese university and an established American university to create a joint business venture – a dual-degree program. The parties failed to sign a contract, and there were indicators during negotiations pointing to the likelihood of a failed outcome. Negotiation style convergence was evident, with the Japanese adopting an erabi ('either-or') style and the Americans an awase ('more-or-less') style. The 7-Step framework used to structure the negotiation discussion may be better suited to analyzing Japanese negotiation processes than American. The implications will be of value to Japanese and American/Western businesspeople or educational administrators involved in joint venture-type negotiations.
Speciation Model Selection by Monte Carlo Analysis of Optical Absorption Spectra: Plutonium(IV) Nitrate Complexes

Standard modeling approaches can produce the most likely values of the formation constants of metal-ligand complexes if a particular set of species containing the metal ion is known or assumed to exist in solution equilibrium with complexing ligands. Identifying the most likely set of species when more than one set is plausible is a more difficult problem to address quantitatively. A Monte Carlo method of data analysis is described that measures the relative abilities of different speciation models to fit optical spectra of open-shell actinide ions. The best model(s) can be identified from among a larger group of models initially judged to be plausible. The method is demonstrated by analyzing the absorption spectra of aqueous Pu(IV) titrated with nitrate ion at constant 2 molal ionic strength in aqueous perchloric acid. The best speciation model supported by the data is shown to include three Pu(IV) species with nitrate coordination numbers 0, 1, and 2. Formation constants are β1 = 3.2 ± 0.5 and β2 = 11.2 ± 1.2, where the uncertainties are 95% confidence limits estimated by propagating raw data uncertainties using Monte Carlo methods. Principal component analysis independently indicates three Pu(IV) complexes in equilibrium.
THE UNDERPRICING OF “SECOND” INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS

The underpricing of initial public offerings (IPOs) of equity represents a well-documented empirical phenomenon. One prominent explanation for this underpricing relies on the uncertainty investors feel about the value of the issuer. In this paper, this asymmetric information hypothesis is tested by examining the underpricing of IPOs of seventy-four firms for which the uncertainty about the value of the firm is likely to be substantially reduced. These firms were once publicly owned, then taken private, and subsequently returned to public ownership. Findings show that the IPOs of these “reverse leveraged buyouts” are significantly less underpriced than typical IPOs. These results support the asymmetric information hypothesis.
Gas-driven displacement of a liquid in a partially filled radial Hele-Shaw cell.

The displacement of liquids from confined geometries by using a gas phase is a problem that is relevant to many technologies. Efficient removal of the liquid phase is achieved when an extremely thin residual fluid film is produced as it is displaced. Here the dynamics of air, at constant pressure, displacing a glycerol-water drop in a radial Hele-Shaw cell is studied in this context at low Reynolds numbers. Empirically derived expressions relating the input parameters (fluid viscosity, pressure, and drop volume) to characteristic gas flow and liquid displacement rates, and the steady-state film thickness, are proposed and compared with experiments. The experiments consist of measuring cross-sectional areas of the penetrating gas (air) and displaced liquid using glycerol-water mixtures with viscosities ranging from 4 to 280 cSt and with inlet pressures ranging from 3.5 to 10.5 kPa at gap spacings of 50--100 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m. We estimate that the system produces residual film thicknesses in the range of 5--95 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m.
The location of the methylol groups in sapogenol C and erythrodiol and its biosynthetic significance

Abstract The 13C NMR spectra of erythrodiol and sapogenol C have been determined and assignments made for all 30 carbons in each compound. This has permitted a hydroxyl group of sapogenol C to be located at C-24. The biosynthetic significance of sapogenol C and erythrodiol production by oxidation of β-amyrin is discussed.
Direct observation of wetting and spreading of copper particles on magnesium oxide

Abstract Supported metal catalysts were exposed to various oxidizing and reducing gas atmospheres during their preparation, operation, and regeneration. Interaction with these gases had profound effects on their morphology. In the present investigation a controlled atmosphere electron microscope was used to follow the changes of the morphology of copper particles supported on magnesium oxide in oxygen and hydrogen environments. When the system is heated in oxygen at 200 °C, the metal particles undergo an unusual transformation, discrete solid crystallites changing to toroid shaped oxide structures. Subsequent treatment in hydrogen at 200 °C results in a conversion back to the initial metallic form. These results are discussed in terms of a volcano structure, in which particles consist of a molten core surrounded by a porous solid skin.
Visual orientation by motion-produced blur patterns: Detection of divergence

Blur patterns are physiological “streaks” of photochemical and neural activity that occur whenever an observer and his visual environment are in relative motion. When retinal velocities are high, the impression of visual “flow” gives way to one of a field of “blur lines” whose patterns are rich with information about the motions and the optical textures that produced them. Simulated blur patterns were produced and thresholds measured for the detection of divergence at nine retinal loci. Sensitivity was somewhat greater in the central retina. Thresh-olds remained the same despite variations in pattern velocity, number of elements, and the presence or absence of an internal velocity gradient. Observers were able to orient above-threshold patterns, but consistently underestimated the amount of slant.
Outcomes of a Life Skills Intervention for Homeless Adults with Mental Illness

A manualized life skills intervention based on empowerment theory and situated learning was tested on 51 homeless adults with mental illness living in emergency or single room occupancy housing. The intervention improved skills in food, money, room, and self-care management and safe community participation. Participation included baseline measures with intervention post-tests and three and six month follow up measures. Comparisons were made to examine effectiveness between modules. There were significant improvements over time for the room and self-care and safe community participation modules, whereas the other modules did not reach statistical significance. The results suggest that through intervention this population may develop and retain the life skills needed to maintain residential stability.
The pharmacokinetics of high-dose carboplatin in pediatric patients with cancer

Carboplatin disposition was studied in 18 pediatric patients with cancer over a dosage range of 400 to 700 mg/m2 given on an alternate-day schedule (total doses of 1200 to 2100 mg/m2) with high-dose etoposide. Median age was 7.7 years, hepatic functions were normal, and serum creatinine levels were ≤1.0 mg/dl. Carboplatin pharmacokinetics were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Median pharmacokinetic parameters for ultrafilterable platinum were as follows: clearance 45.8 ml/min/m2 (range, 25.5 to 65.3 ml/min/m2) and a terminal half-life of 3.6 hours (range, 2.1 to 14.2 hours). Carboplatin clearance (CL) values and volume of distribution (Vc) were highly correlated to body size (CL = 55 × Body surface area in [BSA, in square meters] − 6.7, r2 = 0.73; Vc = 5 × BSA [in square meters] + 0.26, r2 = 0.69). However, carboplatin doses normalized to BSA still resulted in twofold to threefold variability in area under the concentration-time curve. Carboplatin CL was significantly lower in those subjects (n = 9) who had previously received cumulative cisplatin doses of ≤960 mg/m2 (p < 0.05) but was not influenced by age, gender, or diagnosis. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1992) 51, 701–707; doi:10.1038/clpt.1992.82
Carbohydrate and amino acid composition of phloem sap and honeydew produced by Bemisia tabaci

Abstract A Florida strain of sweet potato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius), was found to have an expanded range which includes several new food crops. To determine why, we examined how it processes plant nutrients. The amino acid and carbohydrate content of phloem sap from poinsettia and pumpkin and of honeydew produced by the Florida strain were analysed. Honeydews produced by a strain from Arizona feeding on both plants were also analysed. Poinsettia phloem sap contained 15 amino acids; 14 of these were in pumpkin phloem sap. Almost all the same amino acids were in the honeydews produced by the two strains on the two hosts. Approximately half of the amino acids found in the honeydew were at concentrations which were significantly lower than concentrations in the phloem sap. Honeydew from both hosts contained six additional amino acids. The major one was glutanine which may be used to expel nitrogen. Carbohydrates in phloem sap and honeydew were common transport sugars, like sucrose. Both honeydews contained trehalulose, a disaccharide not previously associated with insects. Both strains processed phloem sap and honeydew from both plants in the same manner, but the Florida strain produced significantly larger quantities of honeydew; it is therefore assumed to process more phloem sap. Since this strain has access to more phloem sap it also has access to more of the amino acids which are in short supply in the phloem sap of some plants allowing it to broaden its range.
Characterization of the lipopolysaccharide ofVeillonella parvula ATN and growth conditions affecting its yield

The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) ofVeillonella parvula ATN, a human oral isolate, was characterized. Lipid A accounted for, approximately 55% of the weight of the LPS complex. Major fatty acids included tridecanoic acid, 3-hydroxytridecanoic acid, and 3-hydroxypentadecanoic acid. Glucose was the only hexose detected. Amino compounds included glucosamine, galactosamine, and glycine. Heptose and 2-keto-3-deoxyoctonic acid (KDO) were also present. Alterations in the culture medium formulation affected LPS extraction yields. Furthermore, evidence was presented for the existence of a heterogeneous LPS component, with changes in growth conditions giving rise to more or less hydrophilic types of LPS.
Equilibrium Shapes and Properties of Epitaxially Strained Islands

We calculate the equilibrium morphology of an epitaxial strained layer which wets the substrate (Stranski-Krastanow growth), in a two-dimensional continuum model. The layer coalesces into a single discrete island, with zero contact angle to the film wetting the substrate. Small islands have a minimum width, and hence an arbitrarily small aspect ratio. Very large coherent islands have a shape that approaches a ball sitting atop the wetting layer.
Thiotepa and etoposide treatment of recurrent malignant gliomas: phase I study.

Purpose: To determine: (1) the maximum tolerable dose (MTD) of thiotepa (TT) that can be administered with etoposide without stem cell support; (2) whether this regimen is active against recurrent malignant gliomas. Background: Although several chemotherapeutic agents show minor activity against recurrent brain tumors, there is no consensus about the most effective regimen. The alkylating agent TT has excellent central nervous system (CNS) penetration and is synergistic with the topoisomerase II inhibitor etoposide. Design/Methods: Fifteen patients with recurrent malignant gliomas (14 glioblastomas, 1 anaplastic astrocytoma) received intravenous etoposide 100 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3, and intravenous TT (40, 50, 60, or 70 mg/m2) on day 2. All had received irradiation, and eight BCNU. Chemotherapy was repeated every 3 – 4 weeks, with stepwise TT dose increments of 10 mg/m2, provided toxicity was less than grade III. Results: The major toxicity was dose-limiting leukopenia. The MTD of TT in cycle 1 was 60 mg/m2. All patients died of progressive disease and none died of chemotherapy-related complications. Conclusions: The MTD of TT in this regimen for recurrent malignant gliomas is 60 mg/m2. Higher doses of TT would require colony-stimulating factors or stem cell support.
Improved deoxyribozymes for synthesis of covalently branched DNA and RNA

A covalently branched nucleic acid can be synthesized by joining the 2'-hydroxyl of the branch-site ribonucleotide of a DNA or RNA strand to the activated 5'-phosphorus of a separate DNA or RNA strand. We have previously used deoxyribozymes to synthesize several types of branched nucleic acids for experiments in biotechnology and biochemistry. Here, we report in vitro selection experiments to identify improved deoxyribozymes for synthesis of branched DNA and RNA. Each of the new deoxyribozymes requires Mn²(+) as a cofactor, rather than Mg²(+) as used by our previous branch-forming deoxyribozymes, and each has an initially random region of 40 rather than 22 or fewer combined nucleotides. The deoxyribozymes all function by forming a three-helix-junction (3HJ) complex with their two oligonucleotide substrates. For synthesis of branched DNA, the best new deoxyribozyme, 8LV13, has k(obs) on the order of 0.1 min⁻¹, which is about two orders of magnitude faster than our previously identified 15HA9 deoxyribozyme. 8LV13 also functions at closer-to-neutral pH than does 15HA9 (pH 7.5 versus 9.0) and has useful tolerance for many DNA substrate sequences. For synthesis of branched RNA, two new deoxyribozymes, 8LX1 and 8LX6, were identified with broad sequence tolerances and substantial activity at pH 7.5, versus pH 9.0 for many of our previous deoxyribozymes that form branched RNA. These experiments provide new, and in key aspects improved, practical catalysts for preparation of synthetic branched DNA and RNA.
Illiteracy ain't what it used to be.

As I go through my normal workday meeting and interacting with patients, parents, students, residents and colleagues, certain phrases reappear in my conversations as leitmotifs. Now, with the artic...