cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lumbar Plexus Injury: Lateral MIS Spinal Fusion

A quick look at the lumbar plexus from a lateral view makes the concept of safely instrumenting the lumbar interspaces and bodies from a lateral approach appear nearly impossible. There are superficial primarily sensory nerves coursing through the retroperitoneal fat and sensorimotor branches buried within the psoas muscle directly overlying the vertebral bodies and disc spaces. Understanding the plexus anatomy, the safe operative corridors, and the strategies for nerve injury avoidance is crucial to performing lateral approaches with outcomes that meet or exceed alternative surgical approaches. Here we review the normal anatomy and function of the lumbar plexus within the purview of known complications of minimally invasive lateral trans-psoas approaches along with strategies for injury avoidance and treatment.
Topical JAK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alopecia Areata and Vitiligo

Alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo are dermatological autoimmune diseases that, until recently, have had no specifically targeted therapies. Here, we review the future of therapies specifically targeted to the treatment of alopecia areata and vitiligo, both of which have JAK-STAT signaling implicated in their pathogenesis. With a greater understanding of disease mechanisms and pathogenesis, we are now able to target the immune dysfunction in autoimmune diseases with more precision than topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors. Inhibition of the JAK-STAT pathway has been shown to be effective in the treatment of AA, vitiligo, and in some patients with both diseases. In this review, we summarize the current molecular and immunological understanding of AA and vitiligo, how JAK inhibition is increasingly positioned as a new therapy for autoimmune diseases, and the future of topical JAK inhibitors in the field of dermatology.
Engendering Justice: The Promotion of Women in Post-conflict and Post-transitional Criminal Justice Institutions

The acute need to address security-related concerns of women in conflict and post-conflict scenarios has been noted and emphasized by powerful actors including the United Nations Security Council, evidenced in the passing of 12 relevant resolutions, including Resolution 1325 (Women, Peace and Security 2000), Resolution 1820 (Women, Peace and security: Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict 2008), and Resolution 1960 (Women in peacekeeping missions in civil, military, and police functions 2010). The inclusion of gender-related issues within security sector reform (SSR) policy and academic circles also reflects another important policy trend, that of gender mainstreaming, within development and aid circles. Gender-related issues may not be dominant within SSR, but are gaining traction. OECD DAC (now the OECD-DCD-DAC) publication urged policy makers and funders to include gender-related SSR policies into their programs. This includes gender-related program assessments (such as reviewing policies for any gender discriminatory provisions), promotion of policies that address gender-specific needs, inclusion of policies to address gender-based violence, collaboration with women’s and human rights organizations when creating reforms, and mandating gender-related trainings for security personnel. The publication also stressed the importance of women’s participation and consultation in security and justice issues, including the greater physical representation of women within the security sector. The report stated that “creating more representative security system institutions—i.e. institutions with a diversity of personnel that reflects the population they seek to serve—through increased capacity, recruitment, retention and advancement of women strengthens operational effectiveness and can generate greater civilian trust” (OECD DAC, 2009, p. 2).
Histone deacetylase 6 inhibition reduces cysts by decreasing cAMP and Ca2+ in knock-out mouse models of polycystic kidney disease.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is associated with progressive enlargement of multiple renal cysts, often leading to renal failure that cannot be prevented by a current treatment. Two proteins encoded by two genes are associated with ADPKD: PC1 (pkd1), primarily a signaling molecule, and PC2 (pkd2), a Ca2+ channel. Dysregulation of cAMP signaling is central to ADPKD, but the molecular mechanism is unresolved. Here, we studied the role of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) in regulating cyst growth to test the possibility that inhibiting HDAC6 might help manage ADPKD. Chemical inhibition of HDAC6 reduced cyst growth in PC1-knock-out mice. In proximal tubule–derived, PC1-knock-out cells, adenylyl cyclase 6 and 3 (AC6 and -3) are both expressed. AC6 protein expression was higher in cells lacking PC1, compared with control cells containing PC1. Intracellular Ca2+ was higher in PC1-knock-out cells than in control cells. HDAC inhibition caused a drop in intracellular Ca2+ and increased ATP-simulated Ca2+ release. HDAC6 inhibition reduced the release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum induced by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase. HDAC6 inhibition and treatment of cells with the intracellular Ca2+ chelator 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid tetrakis(acetoxymethyl ester) reduced cAMP levels in PC1-knock-out cells. Finally, the calmodulin inhibitors W-7 and W-13 reduced cAMP levels, and W-7 reduced cyst growth, suggesting that AC3 is involved in cyst growth regulated by HDAC6. We conclude that HDAC6 inhibition reduces cell growth primarily by reducing intracellular cAMP and Ca2+ levels. Our results provide potential therapeutic targets that may be useful as treatments for ADPKD.
Annotated reconstruction of 3D spaces using drones

As the fields of robotics and drone technologies are continually advancing, the challenge of teaching these agents to learn and maneuver in the real world becomes increasingly important. A critical component of this is the ability for a robot to map and understand its surrounding unknown environment, both in terms of physical structure and object classification. In this project we tackle the challenge of mapping a 3D space with annotations using only 2D images acquired from a Parrot Drone. In order to make such a system operate efficiently in close to real time, we address a number challenges including (1) creating a optimized version of Faster RCNN that can operate on drone hardware while still being accurate, (2) developing a method to reconstruct 3D spaces from 2D images annotated with bounding boxes, and (3) using generated 3D annotations to complete drone motion planning for unknown space exploration.
A 26 dB wide dynamic range rectifier array employing three rectifying devices

This paper presents the implementation and design of a three-device rectifier array based on the concept of adaptive power distribution methodology to design a very wide dynamic range rectifier. The circuit is based on microstrip design, however lumped components can also be used for design such a circuit. The fabricated circuit achieves RF to dc conversion power efficiencies higher than 50% over 26 dB dynamic range and with a peak efficiency of 57% at 810 MHz.
Racial/Ethnic Variation in the Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Insurance Coverage and Access Among Young Adults.

Objectives. To examine the impact of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) 2010 parental insurance coverage extension to young adults aged 19 to 25 years on health insurance coverage and access to care, including racial/ethnic disparities.Methods. We pooled data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for the periods 2007 to 2009 and 2011 to 2013 (n = 402 777). We constructed quasiexperimental difference-in-differences models in which adults aged 26 to 35 years served as a control group. Multivariable statistical models controlled for covariates guided by the Andersen model for health care utilization.Results. On average, insurance rates among young adults increased 6.12 percentage points after ACA implementation (P < .001). All racial/ethnic groups experienced increases in coverage. However, the impact varied by race/ethnicity and was largest for Whites. Young adults had a 2.61 percentage point (P < .001) decrease in experiencing barriers to health care because of cost issues after the ACA, with ...
Distortion optimization for wide-angle computational cameras

An imaging system design procedure for miniature wide-angle computational cameras with subsequent software correction of distortion is described. Such miniature wide-angle computational cameras have a broad range of applications, including eye-tracked extraocular cameras for retinal prostheses, and also wearable visual aids for the blind and those with low vision. As significant (typically barrel) distortion is commonplace in wide-field-of-view imaging systems, digital post-processing is often employed to generate rectilinear output images. Relaxation of the constraint on distortion during the optical system design process is shown to allow for improved optimization of other image-degrading aberrations. Analysis of the effects of distortion on the software-corrected final image during optical design is accomplished by using comprehensive image quality metrics such as the correlation coefficient and the spatial frequency response. Selection of a surprisingly large exact initial distortion value as a constraint allows for the design of a miniature wide-angle imaging system that yields significantly enhanced final image quality.
The Third Wave?: Inclusive Privacy and Security

The field of security and privacy has made steady progresses in developing technical mechanisms, which I refer to as the first wave of security and privacy research. Since the 70's, human factors and usability have been recognized as a key property of effective security and privacy mechanisms. This is what I call the second wave of security and privacy research, focusing on usability. In this article, I propose and advocate for a third wave of research that I call inclusive security and privacy, which is concerned with designing security and privacy mechanisms that are inclusive to people with various characteristics, abilities, needs and values. I present a preliminary research framework and research agenda for advancing inclusive security and privacy.
Macrophage colony-stimulating factor mediates astrocyte-induced microglial ramification in human fetal central nervous system culture.

Abstract Colony-stimulating factors are important mediators of microglial growth and function. Microglia, derived from ameboid precursor cells, undergo a series of morphological changes in the central nervous system to become ramified, a morphological hallmark of differentiated microglia. The cellular mechanisms and environmental factors involved in microglial ramification in the developing brain are not known. In the present study, we examined the role of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) in the induction of ramification of microglia in human fetal glial cultures. Human fetal microglia underwent spontaneous conversion from ameboid to ramified shape when co-cultured with human fetal astrocytes. Concurrently, high levels of M-CSF also accumulated in cultures of unstimulated human fetal astrocytes. That the M-CSF was essential in inducing microglial ramification was demonstrated by almost complete inhibition of ramification by an antibody to human M-CSF receptor, c-fms. Furthermore, profound inhibition of microglial ramification was exerted by herbimycin A, a specific inhibitor of tyrosine kinase (a component of the signal cascade of c-fms), supporting the role of M-CSF/c-fms in the induction of microglial ramification. Our results suggest a pivotal role played by astrocytes and astrocyte-produced M-CSF in the induction of microglial maturation and differentiation in the developing human brain.
The incidence of vocal fold motion impairment after primary thyroid and parathyroid surgery for a single high-volume academic surgeon determined by pre- and immediate post-operative fiberoptic laryngoscopy.

Abstract Background Vocal fold motion impairment (VFMI) is a well-recognized complication of thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Preoperative counseling requires a thorough understanding of the incidence, risk factors, and value of early diagnosis of postoperative VFMI. Our objective is to describe the incidence of and risk factors for VFMI for a single high-volume academic surgeon, and to assess the utility of immediate postoperative fiberoptic laryngoscopy (FOL) in early diagnosis of VFMI. Methods Retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing primary thyroid and parathyroid procedures by a single high-volume surgeon at an academic tertiary care center. All patients underwent preoperative and immediate postoperative FOL. The primary outcome was incidence of VFMI, either temporary ( Results The study population comprised 1547 patients undergoing 1580 procedures for a total of 2527 nerves at risk, excluding the 27 nerves found to have motion impairment on preoperative FOL. Sixty-seven new incidents of VFMI were identified on postoperative FOL, with an additional six new incidents detected after voice complaints prompted FOL upon follow-up. Thus, the incidence of postoperative VFMI was 2.9% of RLNs at risk (73 of 2527). The sensitivity and negative predictive value of immediate postoperative FOL were 92% and 99.8% respectively. Permanent VFMI occurred in 9 cases (0.4%), 3 of which were from intentional RLN transection for malignancy. Odds of VFMI were significantly lower after parathyroidectomy (aOR = 0.1, 95%CI = 0.01–0.8 compared with hemithryoidectomy) and higher with central neck dissection (aOR = 2.4, 95CI = 1.0–5.9). Among cases of malignancy, odds of VFMI increased significantly with increasing T-stage (adjusted ptrend Conclusion VFMI is rare and usually temporary after primary thyroid and parathyroid procedures, with increased risk associated with larger primary malignancies and the inclusion of central neck dissection. Immediate postoperative FOL is useful for early detection of VFMI that may allow for clear definition of temporary and permanent immobility rehabilitation especially if there is evidence to support early intervention.
Case report: Transient global amnesia in a type I diabetic patient

Abstract Objective To describe a 20-year-old patient with a 10-year history of Type 1 diabetes who suffered from neurological consequences, including reversible amnesia, following a presumed episode of hypoglycemia. Methods We present a case report and the findings of applicable literature to identify the incidence of acute neurological effects of hypoglycemic events to determine an explanation for reversible amnesia and neuroimages following an episode of extremely low blood glucose. Results Following the presumed hypoglycemic event, our patient presented with limited recall of the past 24 hours, including no memory of the last 12 hours. His brain MRI showed hyperintensities within the hippocampi bilaterally. By his 4-month follow up, he no longer had memory problems and his MRI showed resolution of hippocampal lesions. Systematic review of literature revealed that hypoglycemic events result in cognitive deficits and memory loss. There have been previous reports of neurological consequences following a documented hypoglycemic coma, but we report a patient that suffered transient amnesia following a severe, unidentifiable hypoglycemic episode that can only be presumed. Conclusion The severity and duration of the hypoglycemic event may play a role in the neurological consequences and long-term outcomes. This patient, in conjunction with previous literature, emphasizes the importance of glucose control due to the severity of neurological dysfunction following episodes of hypoglycemia.
Admissibility and Stability

Admissibility is a useful criterion for selecting among equilibria, but I argue that enforcing admissibility dilutes the power of stability criteria to select among equilibrium components, and this accounts for anomalous examples of stable sets. Therefore, admissibility should be invoked only when selecting equilibria within a component that is immune to payoff perturbations.
Use of Knockout and Transgenic Mouse Models in Disc Research

The intervertebral disc is a fibrocartilaginous structure that is located between two vertebral bodies; it transmits loads through the spine and allows bending, flexion, and torsion of the column. The intervertebral disc consists of an outer ring of fibrous cartilage called the annulus fibrosus and an inner gelatinous structure, the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposus is a gelatinous structure mainly formed by sparse chondrocyte-like cells embedded in a highly hydrated aggrecan-containing gel (Raj 2008). For more details of the structure of the disc, see Chaps. 4 and 5. The annulus fibrosus is composed of an outer layer of collagen I and an inner region containing collagen II. The collagen fibers are arranged in parallel lamellae, and elastin fibers are interposed between the lamellae.
Estimation of Pile Setup and Incorporation of Resistance Factor in Load Resistance Factor Design Framework

AbstractSoil setup is defined as the increase in axial resistance of driven piles after end of driving (EOD). Very recently, over the last five years, the time-dependent increase in axial resistanc...
Computing Education as a Foundation for 21st Century Literacy

Teaching programming as a way to express ideas, communicate with others, and understand our world is one of the oldest goals for computing education. The inventor of the term "computer science" saw it as the third leg of STEM literacy. In this talk, I lay out the history of the idea of universal computational literacy, some of what it will take to get there, and how our field will be different when we do.
Materialized ideology and environmental problems: The cases of solar geoengineering and agricultural biotechnology:

This article expands upon the notion of ideology as a material phenomenon, usually in the form of institutionalized, taken-for-granted practices. It draws on Herbert Marcuse and related thinkers to...
BiScaled-DNN: Quantizing Long-tailed Datastructures with Two Scale Factors for Deep Neural Networks

Fixed-point implementations (FxP) are prominently used to realize Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) efficiently on energy-constrained platforms. The choice of bit-width is often constrained by the ability of FxP to represent the entire range of numbers in the datastructure with sufficient resolution. At low bit-widths (<8 bits), state-of-theart DNNs invariably suffer a loss in classification accuracy due to quantization/saturation errors. In this work, we leverage a key insight that almost all datastructures in DNNs are long-tailed i.e., a significant majority of the elements are small in magnitude, with a small fraction being orders of magnitude larger. We propose BISCALED-FXP, a new number representation which caters to the disparate range and resolution needs of long-tailed data-structures. The key idea is, whilst using the same number of bits to represent elements of both large and small magnitude, we employ two different scale factors viz. scale-fine and scale-wide in their quantization. Scale-fine allocates more fractional bits providing resolution for small numbers, while scale-wide favors covering the entire range of large numbers albeit at a coarser resolution. We develop a BiScaled DNN accelerator which computes on BISCALED-FXP tensors. A key challenge is to store the scale factor used in quantizing each element as computations that use operands quantized with different scale-factors need to scale their result. To minimize this overhead, we use a block sparse format to store only the indices of scale-wide elements, which are few in number. Also, we enhance the BISCALED-FXP processing elements with shifters to scale their output when operands to computations use different scale-factors. We develop a systematic methodology to identify the scale-fine and scale-wide factors for the weights and activations of any given DNN. Over 8 state-of-the-art image recognition benchmarks, BISCALED-FXP reduces 2 computation bits over conventional FxP, while also slightly improving classification accuracy on all cases. Compared to FxP8, the performance and energy benefits range between $1.43 \times- 3.86 \times$ and $1.4 \times- 3.7 \times$ respectively.
Shear stress and flow-mediated dilation in the normoxic and hypoxic human.

The endothelium is a single cell layer that plays a critical role in determining the health and function of blood vessels. Endothelial function is shaped by shear stress, the frictional force exert...
λ Connectivity in the Plane

Publisher Summary Every arcwise connected nonseparating plane continuum has a hereditarily decomposable boundary. Hence, all arcwise connected nonseparating plane continua have the fixed point property. This chapter discusses that the generalization of arcwise connectivity provides another way of describing continua that satisfy the hypothesis of Bell's theorem. It is proposed that if M is a plane continuum that does not have infinitely many complementary domains. Then M is λ connected if every continuum in the boundary of M is decomposable. A plane continuum M is λ connected if each link in M is hereditarily decomposable. From this characterization, it follows that λ connected plane continua share several other properties with arcwise connected continua.
Fitting Bayesian models for single-case experimental designs: A tutorial.

Abstract. Single-case experimental designs (SCEDs) are interrupted time-series designs that have recently gained recognition as being able to provide a strong basis for establishing intervention ef...
Geono-Cluster: Interactive Visual Cluster Analysis for Biologists

Biologists often perform clustering analysis to derive meaningful patterns, relationships, and structures from data instances and attributes. Though clustering plays a pivotal role in biologists’ data exploration, it takes non-trivial efforts for biologists to find the best grouping in their data using existing tools. Visual cluster analysis is currently performed either programmatically or through menus and dialogues in many tools, which require parameter adjustments over several steps of trial-and-error. In this article, we introduce Geono-Cluster, a novel visual analysis tool designed to support cluster analysis for biologists who do not have formal data science training. Geono-Cluster enables biologists to apply their domain expertise into clustering results by visually demonstrating how their expected clustering outputs should look like with a small sample of data instances. The system then predicts users’ intentions and generates potential clustering results. Our study follows the design study protocol to derive biologists’ tasks and requirements, design the system, and evaluate the system with experts on their own dataset. Results of our study with six biologists provide initial evidence that Geono-Cluster enables biologists to create, refine, and evaluate clustering results to effectively analyze their data and gain data-driven insights. At the end, we discuss lessons learned and implications of our study.
Climate-induced population displacement in sub-Saharan Africa: A review of resilience-building strategies

Abstract Growing evidence suggests that there is a correlation between climate change and increasing levels of human population displacement in sub-Saharan Africa. Over the last two decades, stakeholders have established various resilience-building programs to mitigate climate disaster risks and their adverse impacts on life and livelihoods across the region. These programs have focused on enhancing food and water security while expanding the capacity to predict and plan for climate disasters. Despite a growing body of research, the role of climate resilience-building strategies in mitigating climate-induced displacement has received relatively little attention. This paper contributes to filling this salient gap in the scholarly and policy discourse on this issue. Sub-Saharan Africa is used in this paper as an example that represents a region comprised of developing countries experiencing a variety of climate-induced challenges. Sub-Saharan Africa also has been an incubator for a variety of experimental strategies implemented at the community, national and regional levels to respond to climate shocks and reduce climate risks. Using an integrated resilience building approach that prioritizes understanding vulnerabilities and structural needs in response to climate challenges, this paper examines key strategies implemented in sub-Saharan Africa to reduce the climate risks that have the greatest consequences for population displacement.
Impact of Anesthesia, Sex, and Circadian Cycle on Renal Afferent Nerve Sensitivity

We determined the impact of anesthesia, sex, and circadian cycle on renal afferent nerve (ARNA) sensitivity to chemical and mechanical stimuli. ARNA sensitivity to renal capsaicin infusion was grea...
Does the Endangered Species Act Preempt State Water Law

In March 2013, in The Aransas Project v. Shaw, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas announced, almost in passing, that the federal Endangered Species Act (“ESA”) preempts state water law and the exercise of state water rights. As a result, the court concluded that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had effectuated a “taking” of ESA-listed whooping cranes as a result of state-permitted diversions of fresh water. This case is currently on review before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, but it raises a question likely to be increasingly important for both aquatic species and water users: When, and to what extent, does the federal ESA preempt state water law, including the exercise of state-created water rights? This Article examines that question in much more detail than the Southern District of Texas did. It begins by examining the plethora of water systems in the United States that are already subject to ESA controversies as a result, at least in part, of water management decisions and water rights. For a variety of reasons, including both population dynamics and climate change, the number of such systems is increasing, and conflicts between the ESA and state water law are only likely to escalate in the future. In Part II, this Article reviews the basic jurisprudence of federal preemption, outlining the three ways in which federal law can preempt state law — express, implied, and conflict preemption. Finally, Part III examines how these three types of preemption play out through the ESA. The Article concludes that the ESA is unlikely to either expressly or implicitly preempt state water law in most circumstances, but that conflict preemption is likely to play an increasingly bigger role in ESA-water law jurisprudence, making The Aransas Project v. Shaw a harbinger of water rights litigation to come.
The Gödel Model

In Section 7 we defined a relation R 0 on On2. We proved that R 0 well orders On2 and, with respect to R 0, initial segments of On2 are sets. Consequently there is an order isomorphism J 0 such that \( {J_0}Iso{m_{{R_{0},E}}}\left( {O{n^2},On} \right) \).
SOME PROBLEMS IN THE MEASUREMENT OF HUMAN PERFORMANCE IN MAN--MACHINE SYSTEMS.

Quantification of human performance in man–machine systems is receiving more and more attention in human factors work. Obstacles to such quantification include: (1) complexity and subjectivity of available quantification methods, (2) grossness of assumptions behind these methods, and (3) resistance of some psychologists. Research is needed (1) to develop an improved human performance data bank, (2) to develop improved models and methods, and (3) to validate quantification data, models and methods. Some research is being done in these areas.
Dynamic modeling of brushless doubly-fed machines

A mathematical model that has the necessary flexibility to investigate design alternatives of the brushless doubly fed machine (BDFM) is developed. The model development starts from a consideration of the basic stator coils and the basic nested loops that constitute the rotor cage. The simple time-domain interactions that occur between the basic machine components are developed into the performance equations of the BDFM by application of the appropriate connection matrices. These matrices represent the internal connection of stator coil groups and the final connections to two independent three-phase supplies of different frequency and voltage. The resulting model of electrical performance and the associated torque equations are suitable for solution as a set of state variable equations. This makes possible the simulation of the system interactions that occur between the machine, its power converter, and the utility supply in any combination of monitoring or generating, synchronous or asynchronous modes that is possible with the BDFM. >
Feynman's checkerboard and other games

Feynman's checkerboard path integral for the retarded Dirac propagator in 1+1 dimensions is derived and extensions to 3+1 dimensions are developed. Methods for obtaining the Feynman propagator (rather than the retarded propagator) are briefly discussed.
Identification and characterization of two energy gaps in superconducting MgB2 by specific-heat measurements

This paper reports specific-heat measurements on superconducting MgB2 in magnetic fields to 9 T. In zero magnetic field the data can be fitted to a two-gap model, which is a generalization of a semi-empirical model for strong-coupled, single-gap superconductors (the alpha-model), to within the precision of the data. Both gaps close at Tc, with one gap larger and one smaller than the BCS weak-coupling-limit. (The two gaps have a ratio ~ 4:1.) Each gap accounts for ~ 50% of the normal electron density of states. The parameters characterizing the fits agree well with those from recent spectroscopic measurements and theory. In magnetic fields the superconductong anomaly is broadened as expected for an anisotropic, randomly-oriented superconductor.
Abstract 17180: Longitudinal Dissociation in the His Bundle: Persistent Bundle Branch Block Can be Corrected by Permanent His Bundle Pacing

Introduction: Focal disease in the main body of the His bundle (HB) is the cause for majority of the bundle branch block (BBB) patterns on EKG. Temporary distal HB pacing (HBP) has previously been shown to correct BBB in high number of patients. Anecdotal reports have confirmed abolition of BBB by permanent HBP. Hypothesis: The aim of our study is to report the incidence of correction of BBB during permanent HBP in patients undergoing pacemaker (PM) implantation. Methods: Permanent HBP was attempted in 185 patients referred for PM implantation. Pts with QRS duration (d) ≥110 ms and BBB were included in the study. Pts with normal QRS or CHB were excluded. HBP was performed using the Medtronic SelectSecure 3830 pacing lead. Baseline QRSd, paced QRSd, correction of BBB and HB pacing threshold were recorded. Results: Fifty patients met the inclusion-exclusion criteria. Mean age 73±12 yrs; men 65%, HTN 81%, DM 30%, CAD 38%, AF 42%, SSS 39%, AV disease 61%, RBBB 31, LBBB 14, IVCD 5). Permanent HBP was successfu...
Competing Archives, Competing Histories: French and Its Cultural Locations in Late-Medieval England

Apart from Latin, French was Britain and England's only medieval supraregional language: English remained a regional language of the British Isles until well into the early modern period, with, for example, almost no translations of major English-language works until then. Although insular French differed over time from the various Frenches of Continental regions, French retained a high degree of mutual intelligibility throughout Europe and on both sides of the Channel, and exchanges between England and Continental regions in both directions continued throughout the Middle Ages. The importance of England as the location of the earliest French-language literary culture early in the twelfth century is now widely recognized, and England's influence on the development of French-language literary writing in Europe becoming more so: interchange, exchange, and mutual influence continued in the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries, though in shifting proportions. French also remained indispensable to external contac...
Single-Stranded RNA Derived from HIV-1 Serves as a Potent Activator of NK Cells

Persistent immune activation is a hallmark of chronic viremic HIV-1 infection. Activation of cells of the innate immune system, such as NK cells, occurs rapidly upon infection, and is sustained throughout the course of the disease. However, the precise underlying mechanism accounting for the persistent HIV-1-induced activation of NK cells is poorly understood. In this study, we assessed the role of uridine-rich ssRNA derived from the HIV-1 long terminal repeat (ssRNA40) on activation of NK cells via TLR7/8. Although dramatic activation of NK cells was observed following stimulation of PBMC with ssRNA40, negligible activation was observed following stimulation of purified NK cells despite their expression of TLR8 mRNA and protein. The functional activation of NK cells by this HIV-1-encoded TLR7/8 ligand could not be reconstituted with exogenous IL-12, IFN-alpha, or TNF-alpha, but was critically dependent on the direct contact of NK cells with plasmacytoid dendritic cells or CD14(+) monocytes, indicating an important level of NK cell cross-talk and regulation by accessory cells during TLR-mediated activation. Coincubation of monocyte/plasmacytoid dendritic cells, NK cells, and ssRNA40 potentiated NK cell IFN-gamma secretion in response to MHC-devoid target cells. Studies using NK cells derived from individuals with chronic HIV-1 infection demonstrated a reduction of NK cell responsiveness following stimulation with TLR ligands in viremic HIV-1 infection. These data demonstrate that HIV-1-derived TLR ligands can contribute to the immune activation of NK cells and may play an important role in HIV-1-associated immunopathogenesis and NK cell dysfunction observed during acute and chronic viremic HIV-1 infection.
Leibniz: An Intellectual Biography

Maria Rosa Antognazza, (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2009), xxvii + 623 pp., £25.00 /$39.95 (hb), ISBN 978‐0‐521‐80619‐0 Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz was unquestionably one of the most versa...
ROLE OF DICTYOSOMES IN WALL FORMATION DURING CELL DIVISION OF CHLORELLA VULGARIS

The behavior of dictyosomes in wall formation during cell division of Chlorella vulgaris follows a definite pattern. During formation of the partition membrane they migrate into the equatorial plane and pair. There is a close spatial relationship between the dictyosomes and the partition membrane which, itself, may be derived from the fusion of dictyosomal vesicles. Dictyosomes also may participate significantly in the deposition of new wall material. THE LIFE CYCLE of Chlorella has become well known. Recently M\1urakami, Morimura, and Takamiya (1963) and Tamiya (1963) described the fine structure of Chlorella ellipsoidea at various stages of cellular development, including the chaniges in certain cell organelles. The formation of the partition membrane during early stages of cell division apparently eluded their observation. 1\'Iurakami et al. (1963) stated that the invagination of the cell surface divides the cell into two parts; however, they did not describe the subsequent developmelnt of the new cell wall. In recent years considerable information has accumulated concerning the role of dictyosomes in the formation of new cell walls in higher plants (M\ollenhauer, Whaley, and Leech, 1961; Juniper, 1963; Whaley and Mollenhauer, 1963). In the lower plants, MIanton (1960) has indicated that the dictyosomes may be associated with the deposition of material into the sporangial wall of Anthoceros. In Lomentaria, a red alga, vesicles presumably dietyosomal in origin appear to open into the wall (Bouck, 1962). The secretorv role of the dictyosome and its association with wall formation of yet another alga was demonstrated by Drawert and Mix (1962) in Micrasterias. In this genus the dictyosome appeared to participate actively in the formation of a wall across the isthmus of the cell after nuclear division. In Chlorella, Murakami et al. (1963) noted that the dictyosome showed signs of increased activity during cell division, but they did not associate this activity with any specific process. The present paper presents further information on the process of wall formation in Chlorella during the early states of cell division. Particular attention is given to the behavior of the dictyosome, which seems to be associated closely with the formation
EF-hands reach out.

The difference in amino-acid sequence and inferred molecular mechanisms between the pair of EF-hands in BM-40 and those of other EF-hand proteins force us to reconsider the evolutionary and functional relationships among the members of this diverse family of proteins.
Circadian lability and shift work intolerance

It is now well established that there are circadian (approximately 24 hour) rhythms in almost every physiological and psychological measure in man 1 . These rhythms are not simply reactions to changes in the gross behavior or immediate environment of the subject, but stem from an internal (endogenous) timekeeping system. This ‘circadian system' is self-sustaining in the absence of all time cues 2 , and resistant to change when acute shifts in a person's routine are required 3,4 . This resistance to change explains many of the adverse symptoms (e.g. malaise, insomnia, gastro-intestinal distress) complained of by those engaged in rotating shift work schedules, or suffering from ‘jet-lag' 5,6 . Such symptoms result from both an inappropriate phasing (time of peak) of circadian rhythms, and from a breakdown in the normal phase relationships between different rhythms as they adjust at different rates to the new routine. The latter is often referred to as ‘internal desynchronization', and also occurs when different rhythms run at different periods. As an example of the importance of this kind of research, we discuss in this article a recent letter to Nature by Alain Reinberg and his associates 7 in which lability of the circadian temperature rhythm (particularly in its period) was found to be associated with a poor tolerance to rotating shift work.
The Teacher Education Internet Server: an evolving resource for educators

ABSTRACT The Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education (SITE) is an international organization of teacher educators from all disciplines who are interested in the creation and dissemination of knowledge about the use of information technology in teacher education. The Teacher Education Internet Server (TEIS) has been established by SITE to support professional interchange and academic discourse and will serve as a complement to traditional ways of sharing academic information such as professional journals and conferences. With the evolution and spread of Internet information servers, it is envisioned that TEIS may make worthwhile contributions to use of technology in teacher education. As telecommunications technologies evolve, from FTP to Gopher to the World Wide Web, a major challenge for TEIS remains: to develop guidelines for collaboration at a distance that allow educators from around the world to work together to identify, acquire, and organize information and related materials. The n...
Poster: Dynamic adaptation of 3D selection techniques for suitability across diverse scenarios

We performed a user study that measured the effectiveness of our new 3D selection technique, Scope, which dynamically adapts to the environment by altering its activation area and visual appearance with relation to cursor velocity. Users tested our new technique against existing techniques Raycast, Bendcast, and Hook across a variety of different 3D scenarios which featured three different levels of object density and three different levels of object velocity. Our two dependent variables were completion time and total attempts per scenario. Users also completed a post-questionnaire which yielded qualitative insights on their experience. Our study shows that Bendcast, Scope, and Hook all performed similarly across all scenarios, yet were all significantly faster and less error-prone than Raycast. Despite this similar performance, users strongly favored Scope over the other three techniques, and over the second most preferred technique nearly two to one.
Study on Surface Properties of Coal, Using Various Probe Compounds

Abstract Pittsburgh seam coal, Wyodak coal and Illinois #6 coal were treated by heating, steaming and oxidizing them in order to modify surface properties of the coals at 150-220°C and atmospheric pressure, and compare adsorption responses of probe compounds, using a high pressure liquid chromatograph (HPLC). Probe compounds include toluene, Isopropanol, heptanol and phenol. Adsorption of xanthates on 120 mesh Rico Colorado pyrite was investigated at 25°C, using the inverse chromatographic technique. The concentration range of xanthates in pH 3.9 aqueous solution is 0.1–1 g/kg-solution. Xanthates include potassium amyl xanthate, sodium isopropyl xanthate and sodium ethyl xanthate for this investigation.
Strategic groups and outcomes in the US hospice care industry

Purpose – As a result of a drastic increase in new patients, two major shifts are occurring in the US hospice care industry: an increase in the number of for‐profit providers, and hospices are increasing in size through acquisitions and mergers. Hospices are trying to both increase the number of innovative programs they offer and decrease their operating expenses to improve their margins and attract more patients. This study seeks to investigate if strategic groups exist within the industry as hospices try to become more innovative and efficient, which grouping factors are most significant, and to determine whether there is a relationship between group membership and performance.Design/methodology/approach – Cluster analysis and ANOVA are used to analyze data from 93 California hospices.Findings – Three strategic groups exist within the market, innovative practices significantly affect group membership, and innovation‐oriented groups outperform others in terms of quality of care.Practical implications – M...
A model for binary logic in biochemical systems

Abstract A model system involving a series of enzyme reactions, some of which display a sigmoid relationship between activity and substrate concentration, is discussed as a possible basis for binary logic in biochemical systems. Under the conditions described, a small change in the concentration of an initial substrate changes the activity of a terminal enzyme from nearly zero to nearly maximal activity, thus approximating a step-function or an on-off switch. Although the mechanistic basis for the sigmoid relationship is not limited to the allosteric model, allosterism is used for purposes of assigning a possible physical meaning to the parameters used in a sample calculation. The possible generation of square wave functions and timed pulses from the model is discussed.
The Initial Rate of C Substrate Utilization and Longer-Term Soil C Storage

The initial reaction of microbial transformation and turnover of soil carbon inputs may influence the magnitude of longer-term net soil C storage. The objective of this study was to test the merit of the hypothesis that the more rapid substrates are initially utilized, the longer the residual products remain in the soil. We used simple model C compounds to determine their decomposition rates and persistence over time. Pure 14C compounds of glucose, acetate, arginine, oxalate, phenylalanine, and urea were incubated in soil for 125 days at 24°C. Total respired CO2 and 14CO2 was quantitatively measured every day for 15 days and residual soil 14C after 125 days. The percent 14C remaining in the soil after 125 days of incubation was positively and significantly correlated with the percent substrate utilized in the first day of incubation. The 14C in the microbial biomass ranged from 4–15% after 15 days and declined through day 125, contributing significantly to the 14C that evolved over the longer time period. Priming of 12C soil organic matter (SOM) was negative at day 3 but became positive, reaching a maximum on day 12; the total increase in soil C from added substrates was greater than the primed C. The primed C came from 12C SOM rather than the microbial biomass. This data supports the concept that the more rapidly a substrate is initially mineralized, the more persistent it will be in the soil over time.
Cultivating an Image of Justice: Looking Fair on the Job

C ertainly, it would appear that being fair is a central interest among today's managers, concerned as they must be about providing "equal employment opportunities," adhering to "fair labor practices," and offering "a fair day's pay for a fair day's work." Just as judges promote fairness in the legal system, and referees and umpires ensure that sporting events are played fairly, managers are responsible for upholding both their company's and society's views of fairness by guaranteeing the fair treatment of employees.1 Despite this, however, it remains unclear what those responsible for the day-to-day management of organizations think constitutes fair behavior. Not surprisingly, just as legal scholars and philosophers cannot agree on what fairness really is in any absolute sense, social scientists have relied on studying justice as it is perceived to be that is, what is fair is in the eye of the beholder.2 In organizations, where the differing perspectives, interests, and goals of supervisors and subordinates might offer each access to different sources of information (as well as different biases on the same information), uncertainties about what is perceived to be fair are likely to arise.3 As a result, we may expect that seasoned managers trying to be fair may learn to focus on what others believe to be fair, thereby cultivating an impression of fairness rather than striving toward any abstract sense of morality. Indeed, when interviewing executives on the topic of organizational justice, I learned that in business organizations fairness was often a matter of impression-management. As one senior vice-president of a Fortune 500 firm confided in me, "What's fair is whatever the workers think is fair. My job is to convince them that what's good for the company is fair for them as individuals." Hearing this sentiment echoed by others, I began to suspect that fairness as viewed by corporate management was perhaps as much a matter of image as it was a matter of morality; that is, "looking fair" may be at least as important as actually "being fair." After all, even the best-intentioned, most "fair-minded" manager may fail to win the approval of subordinates who are not convinced of his or her fairness. Given this, we may ask the following two questions: (1) Are managers more concerned about looking fair or actually being fair? and (2) What do managers do to cultivate impressions of fairness? The Importance of Looking Fair: Survey Evidence
Can mold contamination of homes be regulated? Lessons learned from radon and lead policies.

Increasingly, airborne mold in home environments has been linked with asthma exacerbation and other respiratory diseases in both children and adults. This problem is particularly relevant today, as Hurricane Katrina has resulted in water damage and mold proliferation in numerous homes on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Policies to control indoor moisture and mold can help solve problems of mold contamination and associated adverse health effects, yet very little attention has been given to developing such policies. We address the question of how to develop effective policies by deriving lessons from successful control of other home environmental contaminants; namely, radon and lead. These two agents are being controlled by a variety of policy approaches, including federal regulations and guidelines, public education, and economic incentives among home buyers and sellers. We analyze the mold problem and identify both similarities and differences with the radon and lead situations in the United States. We recommend po...