cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Implementation of point-of-care rapid urine testing for drugs of abuse in the emergency department of an academic medical center: impact on test utilization and ED length of stay.

We evaluated the impact of implementing a pointof-care (POC) rapid urine test panel for drugs of abuse on turnaround time (TAT), emergency department length of stay (LOS), and laboratory test utilization patterns. The mean TAT from sample collection to results reporting decreased by 69.4%, from 108 to 33 minutes, the mean LOS from 11.1 to 8.1 hours (27%; P < .0001), and the median LOS from 8.0 to 7.0 hours (13%; P = .0017). A method crossover between the POC and central laboratory methods revealed differences in sensitivity and specificity. Overall, there was no clear preference for either method. Differences in performance for individual drug classes were reconciled by providing interpretive comments with POC results. Following implementation, use of urine testing for drugs of abuse increased by 30%, which was offset by fewer requests for extended toxicology testing in the central laboratory and more selective ordering of toxicology tests not on the POC panel (alcohols and analgesics). The implementation of a POC urine test panel for drugs of abuse decreased LOS and TAT and essentially replaced central laboratory testing for drugs of abuse. Differences in sensitivity and specificity between POC and central laboratory results require provision of interpretive comments with results.
Metal Ion Coordinating Properties of the Highly Preorganized Tetradentate Ligand 1,10‐Phenanthroline‐2,9‐dicarboxaldehyde‐2,9‐dioxime

Use of UV/Vis spectroscopy to measure protonation and formation constants of PDOX (1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxaldehyde-2,9-dioxime) is reported. All complexes all show a protonation constant of an oxime that is quite close to pKa1 for the free ligand, that is, for ZnII log K for ZnPDOX + H+ [lrarr2] ZnPDOXH+. This is in agreement with literature crystal structures, which show that, for small metal ions such as ZnII, one oxime group of PDOX is left non-coordinated. Only for PbII is the protonation constant of the PDOX complex significantly lowered, to a value of 8.2. In order to investigate the high log K1 value for the PbII/PDOX complex, and its relatively low protonation constant, the crystal structure of [Pb(PDOXH2)(DMSO)2Cl(ClO4)] (1) was determined.
The C. elegans Tailless/TLX transcription factor nhr-67 controls neuronal identity and left/right asymmetric fate diversification

An understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cell fate determination in the nervous system requires the elucidation of transcriptional regulatory programs that ultimately control neuron-type-specific gene expression profiles. We show here that the C. elegans Tailless/TLX-type, orphan nuclear receptor NHR-67 acts at several distinct steps to determine the identity and subsequent left/right (L/R) asymmetric subtype diversification of a class of gustatory neurons, the ASE neurons. nhr-67 controls several broad aspects of sensory neuron development and, in addition, triggers the expression of a sensory neuron-type-specific selector gene, che-1, which encodes a zinc-finger transcription factor. Subsequent to its induction of overall ASE fate, nhr-67 diversifies the fate of the two ASE neurons ASEL and ASER across the L/R axis by promoting ASER and inhibiting ASEL fate. This function is achieved through direct expression activation by nhr-67 of the Nkx6-type homeobox gene cog-1, an inducer of ASER fate, that is inhibited in ASEL through the miRNA lsy-6. Besides controlling bilateral and asymmetric aspects of ASE development, nhr-67 is also required for many other neurons of diverse lineage history and function to appropriately differentiate, illustrating the broad and diverse use of this type of transcription factor in neuronal development.
La santé mentale globale de l’enfant : répondre aux besoins présents et futurs☆

Resume Prendre la mesure de l’importance des effets des problemes mentaux des enfants et adolescents constitue une gageure. Le manque de donnees, le manque d’elements de comprehension et la stigmatisation empechent d’avoir une vision realiste des consequences, sur les individus et sur la societe, de la pathologie mentale de l’enfance. De nouvelles approches essaient de recueillir des informations plus objectives et d’interpreter les donnees en fonction des influences culturelles et de l’importance des handicaps. L’Organisation mondiale de la sante, s’appuyant sur les societes professionnelles, s’est donne pour mission de diffuser largement les avancees concernant les traitements. En depit des progres therapeutiques et des efforts pour ameliorer l’acces aux soins, il est clair que les pays ou la proportion d’enfants et d’adolescents dans la population est la plus elevee sont egalement ceux qui sont le moins bien equipes et ou l’acces aux soins est le plus problematique. Plus recemment, les effets nocifs sur la sante mentale de la « toxicite environnementale » sont devenus une preoccupation generale. Celle-ci represente un nouveau defi pour les chercheurs et les cliniciens concernes par la sante mentale des enfants et des adolescents.
The effect of calcium channel modulators on blood pressure and pressor responses to noradrenaline in the guinea-pig

Selective L-type voltage-operated calcium channel (VOCC) antagonists nicardipine, diltiazem and verapamil all produced pronounced falls in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in the anaesthetized artificially ventilated guinea-pig. This fall in MAP was associated with a significant reduction of the pressor response induced by i.v. noradrenaline. omega-Conotoxin GVIA (CgTx) a preferential N-type VOCC antagonist produced a significant time-dependent fall in MAP, similar in magnitude to the L-type VOCC antagonist, but did not affect the noradrenaline-induced pressor responses.
Reconsidering Privatization in Cross-Border Engagements: The Sometimes Public Nature of Private Activity.

Privatization trends in higher education have typically been analyzed from the perspective of the institution and its relationship with the sponsoring state. The recent phenomenon of international cross-border higher education, however, represents a more complicated picture of privatization. Geographic separation from the sponsoring state is an extraordinary from of privatization in the public sector. At the same time, host countries may look to the international branch campus to achieve public ends. This paper examines the concept of privatization through cross-border educational initiatives, and argues that the public and private nature of cross-border higher education can only be fully understood when considering the relationship with the home and host countries. The analysis is based on comparisons of how governments in Qatar and the Malaysian state of Sarawak use foreign education providers to support government goals, and how those seemingly public purposes problematize traditional concepts of privatization.
Detecting Functional Connectivity During Audiovisual Integration with MEG: A Comparison of Connectivity Metrics

Abstract In typical magnetoencephalography and/or electroencephalography functional connectivity analysis, researchers select one of several methods that measure a relationship between regions to determine connectivity, such as coherence, power correlations, and others. However, it is largely unknown if some are more suited than others for various types of investigations. In this study, the authors investigate seven connectivity metrics to evaluate which, if any, are sensitive to audiovisual integration by contrasting connectivity when tracking an audiovisual object versus connectivity when tracking a visual object uncorrelated with the auditory stimulus. The authors are able to assess the metrics' performances at detecting audiovisual integration by investigating connectivity between auditory and visual areas. Critically, the authors perform their investigation on a whole-cortex all-to-all mapping, avoiding confounds introduced in seed selection. The authors find that amplitude-based connectivity measure...
Validity of creatinine clearance estimates in the assessment of renal function

In clinical practice, estimations of renal function are commonly used to calculate the appropriate dose for drugs that are renally cleared. Continuous-infusion inulin clearance (CLIN), 4-hour creatinine clearance (CLCR,m), and 24-hour creatinine clearance (CLCR,a) were measured in 109 subjects (86 men and 23 women) with varying degrees of stable renal function (CLIN, 6 to 209 ml/min) and compared with CLCR values as predicted by five equations on the basis of plasma creatinine concentrations, age, weight, and/ or height. The CLCR,m was positively correlated with CLIN (r = 0.92; p < 0.0001) but exceeded CLIN by 15% between the range of 30 and 209 ml/min (CLIN). Similarly, CLCR,a correlated well with both CLCR,m (r = 0.84; p < 0.0005) and CLIN (r = 0.84; p < 0.0001). The relative role of tubular secretion in the overall clearance of creatinine increased with declining CLIN and exceeded 40% when CLIN was below 30 ml/min. CLCR estimated by the Cockcroft-Gault and Mawer methods did not significantly differ from either CLCR,m or CLCR,a, whereas the other equations generally underestimated CLCR. Among the numerous mathematical equations, CLCR as estimated by the method proposed either by Mawer or Cockcroft and Gault was the best predictor of CLIN (CLIN = 1.05CLCR −18.38 or CLIN = 1.12CLCR −20.60, respectively; r = 0.81; p < 0.0001). The present data support the use of estimator equations proposed by Cockcroft and Gault or Mawer for rapid estimation of renal function in the clinical setting. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1990) 48, 503–508; doi:10.1038/clpt.1990.186
The Effect of a Commercial Game on Children's Block Design Scores on the WISC-R IQ Test.

Two experiments investigated the extent to which 10-year old children's scores on the WISC-R Block Design subtest were affected by prior experience with a specific commercial game that involved blocks and matching patterns. Experiment 1 found that 12 10-year old children who happened to have experience with the particular commercial game scored approximately three scaled score points higher on the WISC-R Block Design subtest than 24 matched children without game experience. In Experiment 2, 24 children who did not have prior experience with this particular commercial game were randomly assigned either to a Game condition (involving two 15-minute sessions with the game) or to a No-Game condition (which involved no further game experience). Children in the Game condition subsequently increased their WISC-R Block Design scores more than children in the No-Game condition. Taken together, the experiments indicate that relatively brief interactions with a commercial game can cause a significant improvement in children's performance on an IQ subtest.
Attachment of Escherichia coli to fine sediment particles within construction sediment basins

The conventional best management practice of sediment basins may create a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria. The fine particles that enter these basins have been shown to provide protection for bacteria; the small pores of clays and silts minimize predators and block sunlight. Therefore, while these basins decrease sediment loadings to water bodies downstream, they may introduce harmful levels of pathogenic bacteria into surface waters. In addition to causing human health risks, high bacteria levels alter natural biological makeup of downstream ecosystems. This paper describes the attachment of Escherichia coli to various particle sizes in construction site sediment basins. Five sediment basins, located in Anderson, South Carolina were sampled after rain events to explore trends that exist between various particle sizes and E. coli densities. Results provide evidence to suggest that sediment basins are a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria. Data showed that most E. coli attached to smaller particles with diameters less than 0.004 mm. These particles do not settle out of the water column quickly and are often passed through the basin during intense storms. Consequently, high levels of bacteria are passed to downstream waters. This research provides considerable evidence that the clays and silts within man-made construction basins can cause detrimental effects to South Carolina surface waters. With this knowledge, better stormwater management practices may be developed with the goal of remediating impaired surface waters of South Carolina.
Hypoxia initiates Ductus Arteriosus Remodeling. • 101

After birth, the ductus arteriosus actively constricts in response to the rise in PaO2 and undergoes extensive histologic changes that prevent it from subsequent reopening. We used 7 full-term (1-5 d.o.) and 21 preterm (0.67 gestation) newborn baboons to test the hypothesis that following the initial constriction of the ductus, a region of hypoxia develops within the vessel wall that initiates the subsequent histologic changes. Twenty-four hours prior to sacrifice, we injected the baboons with the drug EF5, a nontoxic 2-nitroimadazole, which binds irreversibly to intact cells at a rate that increases 100-fold as the PO2 decreases from air to N2. EF5's plasma half-life is similar in both preterm and full-term baboons. Using a fluorochrome-conjugated mAb to bound EF5, we can detect changes in EF5 accumulation within the tissue by immunohistochemistry. In the full-term baboons, pulsed-Doppler exam on day 1 showed that the ductus lumen was closed. In the 1-day-old ductus, an intense zone of hypoxia (EF5 staining) was detected in the middle of the muscle media. In addition, all the smooth muscle cells in this intense hypoxic zone were undergoing apoptosis (TUNEL technique). By day 2 and 3, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was expressed in the muscle media on either side of the hypoxic zone; endothelial cells of the ductus lumen and vasa vasorum began to proliferate (began to express proliferating cell nuclear antigen [PCNA]) and invade the muscle media toward the hypoxic zone (which was becoming acellular). Among the 21 preterm baboons, pulsed-Doppler exams found that only 8 had closed their ductus by 6 d after birth. At necropsy on day 6, there was either no or negligible hypoxia(EF5 binding) even in those with a closed ductus on Doppler exam. There was no apoptosis, or staining for VEGF or PCNA. In contrast with the full-term ductus, the preterm ductus, despite Doppler evidence of closure, fails to develop a zone of hypoxia in the muscle media and fails to remodel, making it susceptible to later reopening.
Possible origin of the neutral current in liquid helium

Abstract We investigate the consequences of a model for the generation of the anomalous current seen by Surko and Reif in liquid helium. The model account qualitatively for the reported features of the experiment.
Assessing the theoretical models for sex differences in causal attributions for success and failure.

Three basic models of attributional sex differences are reviewed: General Externality, Self-Derogation, and Low Expectancy. Although all of the models predict that women are unlikely to attribute their successes to ability, the models were quite different in other predictions. A meta-analysis of 21 studies examining sex differences in success-failure attributions was done to determine which of these three models had the most empirical support. Wording of attribution questions was also assessed. Results indicated only two consistent sex differences: Men make stronger ability attributions than women regardless of the outcome when informational attributional wording is used; and men attribute their successes and failures less to luck. Empirically, none of the models was well supported.
Compression-induced changes in the shape and volume of the chondrocyte nucleus

Changes in cell shape and volume are believed to play a role in the process of mechanical signal transduction by chondrocytes in articular cartilage. One proposed pathway through which chondrocyte deformation may be transduced to an intracellular signal is through cytoskeletally mediated deformation of intracellular organelles, and more specifically, of the cell nucleus. In this study, confocal scanning laser microscopy was used to perform in situ three-dimensional morphometric analyses of the nuclei of viable chondrocytes during controlled compression of articular cartilage explants from the canine patellofemoral groove. Unconfined compression of the tissue to a 15% surface-to-surface strain resulted in a significant decrease of chondrocyte height and volume by 14.7 +/- 6.4 and 11.4 +/- 8.4%, respectively, and of nuclear height and volume by 8.8 +/- 6.2% and 9.8 +/- 8.8%, respectively. Disruption of the actin cytoskeleton using cytochalasin D altered the relationship between matrix deformation and changes in nuclear height and shape, but not volume. The morphology and deformation behavior of the chondrocytes were not affected by cytochalasin treatment. These results suggest that the actin cytoskeleton plays an important role in the link between compression of the extracellular matrix and deformation of the chondrocyte nuclei and imply that chondrocytes and their nuclei undergo significant changes in shape and volume in vivo.
Place of sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors for treatment of type 2 diabetes

Inhibitors of sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT2), such as canagliflozin and dapagliflozin, are recently approved for treatment of type 2 diabetes. These agents lower blood glucose mainly by increasing urinary glucose excretion. Compared with placebo, SGLT2 inhibitors reduce hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels by an average of 0.5%-0.8% when used as monotherapy or add-on therapy. Advantages of this drug class include modest weight loss of approximately 2 kg, low risk of hypoglycemia, and decrease blood pressure of approximately 4 mmHg systolic and 2 mmHg diastolic. These characteristics make these agents potential add-on therapy in patients with HbA1c levels close to 7%-8.0%, particularly if these patients are obese, hypertensive, and/or prone for hypoglycemia. Meanwhile, these drugs are limited by high frequency of genital mycotic infections. Less common adverse effects include urinary tract infections, hypotension, dizziness, and worsening renal function. SGLT2 inhibitors should be used with caution in the elderly because of increased adverse effects, and should not be used in chronic kidney disease due to decreased or lack of efficacy and nephrotoxicity. Overall, SGLT2 inhibitors are useful addition for treatment of select groups of patients with type 2 diabetes, but their efficacy and safety need to be established in long-term clinical trials.
Polarization experiments at proton storage rings

Abstract A review is presented of polarization experiments in proton storage rings. Efforts to investigate narrow structures in pp scattering (“dibaryon resonances”) by means of stored polarized beams are discussed. Tests of an internal polarized hydrogen gas target at the Heidelberg TSR, and demonstration of a spin filter, are summarized, followed by an overview of the experimental program with polarized beams and polarized internal H gas targets at the IUCF storage ring (“Cooler”). Reliable operation of a polarized H gas target based on the storage-cell method has permitted measurements of pp spin correlation parameters over a wide range of angles from 200 MeV to 450 MeV with small statistical and systematic errors. The characteristics of the polarized target and the methods of polarization reversal of the proton beam are discussed. Longitudinal polarization of the stored proton beam has recently been achieved.
Changes in tRNA methylase activity in senescing cob and stalk parenchyma tissue and the first developed leaf of corn (Zea mays L.)

Abstract tRNA methylase activity of corn cob parenchyma tissue, corn stalk parenchyma tissue, and the first developed leaf of corn was determined as a function of cell age during the period of senescence preceeding cell death. tRNA methylase activity of corn cob parenchyma tissue disappeared early in the study period and that of stalk parenchyma tissue declined to low levels in tissue containing older cells. Activity was also reduced dramatically in the first developed leaf. It is proposed that this loss of tRNA methylase activity is important in translational control of protein synthesis during senescence of these tissues.
The use of ultrasound in the search for the primary site of unknown primary head and neck squamous cell cancers.

Summary Background Although human papillomavirus detection in cervical lymph nodes of head and neck squamous cell cancers (HNSCC) of unknown primary site (UP) is indicative of a primary tumor of the oropharynx (OP), localization can remain elusive. Therefore, we investigated ultrasonography (US) for the identification of the primary tumor. Methods Eligible cases had HNSCC of UP after evaluation by a head and neck surgical oncologist. Controls were healthy volunteers. Transcervical and intraoral ultrasonography was performed by a standard protocol using convex (3.75–6.0 MHz and 5–7.5 MHz) transducers. US findings were compared with operative examination (exam under anesthesia, direct laryngoscopy) and biopsies. The primary outcome of interest was the presence or absence of a lesion on US. Results 10 cases and 20 controls were enrolled. PET/CT scans were negative/nonspecific (9), or suspicious (1) for a primary lesion. On US, predominantly hypoechoic (9 of 10) lesions were visualized consistent with base of tongue ( n = 7) or tonsil ( n = 3) primary tumors. On operative examination, 5 of 10 were appreciated. Two additional primaries were confirmed with biopsies “directed” by preoperative US. This represents an overall diagnostic rate of 70%, which is 20% higher than our detection rate for 2008–2010. The three cases in which a suspicious lesion was visualized on US, yet remained UP despite further interventions, could represent false positives, misclassification or operator variability. No lesions were suspected among the controls. Conclusion Ultrasound has promise for detection of UPs of the OP and therefore warrants further investigation.
Acid-soluble Bovine Fetal Enamelins

High molecular weight enamelin proteins were recovered from conventional acetic acid extracts of fetal bovine enamel and were analyzed by gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. This procedure is simple and straightforward, and recovers approximately half of the total tissue enamelin content.
060 The Effect of Localized Intra-abdominal Infection on Colon Anastomotic Healing in Rats

Previous studies have demonstrated a decrease in intestinal healing in intra-abdominal infection. Currently, the effect of localized intra-abdominal infection on anastomotic healing and strength is not known. This study was designed to evaluate anastomotic wound healing in the presence of intra-abdominal abscess. 30 male Sprague Dawley rats weighing 270–300 grams were used for this experiment. 20 animals underwent cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) with 16 gauge needle. They were followed for 14 days. 9 of them died in the first week. The CLP animals had an initial 20% weight loss; however by day 10 they had a gradual return toward control weight. At the end of 14 days, rats from CLP group (n = 11) and control group (n = 10) underwent laparotomy and single-layer left colonic anastomosis. Blood cultures and abdominal swab cultures were sent from both groups. Post-operatively, animals were allowed to recover, food and water were offered ad libitum. At post-operative day five, animals were euthanized by thiopental overdose. Following anastomotic bursting pressure measurements, two samples were taken from the anastomotic line for subsequent determination of hydroxyproline content. Groups were compared with Students’t test. Data were expressed as means ± SEM. In the post-operative period, all rats lost 10% to 12% of their body weight. No bacterial growth was detected in cultures. Hydroxyproline content measurements were significantly higher in the CLP group (11.2 ± 0.3 vs. 9.8 ± 0.5 ug HPO/mg dry tissue weight. P 0.05). These findings suggest that localized intra-abdominal infection without sepsis doesn’t inhibit intestinal anastomotic healing. Supported by a grant from Turkish Scientific and Technical Research Council.
Managing new product design and factory fit

Nan S. Langowitz is an assistant professor at the Carroll School of Management, Boston College. The author wishes to acknowledge the generous support of Lex Service PLC and the Harvard Business School Division of Research in funding the research presented in this article. Making a new product fly involves more than a good idea and a lot of luck. Managing a fit between product and factory specifications can help get that idea off the ground.
Locality and Community in the Politics of Local Economic Development

Abstract Concomitant with the contemporary restructuring of local economies in the United States has been a distinctive local politics: one which revolves around a competition among localities rather than conflict with in them. The role of the local dependence of various actors is explored with a view to explaining this politics. Some firms are locally dependent and form business coalitions to stimulate investment in their local economy. They attempt to harness the powers of local government, which are susceptible as a result of their own local dependence. Subsequent local economic development programs often pose threats to people in their workplaces and living places and elicit opposition. To overcome this opposition, business coalitions attempt to promulgate a shared interest in a local community. This interest is extended to include threats to the local community implied by the economic development programs of business coalitions elsewhere. The local dependence of people makes them receptive to this ar...
Manicoba and mangabeira rubbers

These two secondary rubbers are obtained from trees that occur naturally in moderate quantities in eastern South America and were used to some extent in meeting the rubber demands of World War II.
The effect of temperature on the direct action of ionizing radiation on catalase.

Abstract Crystalline liver catalase and noncrystalline red cell catalase have been inactivated by deuterons at temperatures from 90 to 380 °K. The sensitivity versus temperature curves show three plateaus for red cell catalase which correspond to the inactivation of one quarter, one half, and the whole molecule. Crystalline liver catalase at a temperature T has a sensitivity equivalent to (T + 60) for the noncrystalline red cell catalase.
Some additional comments on optimal structural design under multiple eigenvalue constraints

Abstract Recent results [1] concerning necessary and sufficient conditions for local optimality in the case of a dual eigenvalue are extended to eigenvalues of multiplicity n > 2.
Embedded Mixed-Signal IP Development Methodology in 90nm CMOS SerDes FPGAs

A 275mW at 6.375Gbps High Speed Serial Interface developed in TSMC?s 90nm triple-gate oxide CMOS process and the customized methodology applied to develop and integrate high-speed mixed-signal IPs into FPGA platforms will be presented. The risk reduction approach used ensured reliable product, with timely availability. The transceiver IP supports multiple protocols such as PCIe, XAUI, CEI, SDI, etc. There are as many as 20 Rx/Tx transceiver channels embedded in the FPGA. The transceiver achieves better than 10-12 BER at 6.375Gbps across the XAUI backplane originally designed for 3.125Gbps.
Origins of Microbial Microstructures in the Neoproterozoic Beck Spring Dolomite: Variations in Microbial Community and Timing of Lithification

Abstract Microbialite microstructures form at the scale of microbial processes and can preserve evidence of growth, degradation, and lithification in microbial communities. Understanding how these processes are preserved in microstructures will provide insights into microbial ecosystems and how microbial communities have evolved through time. Microbialites in the Neoproterozoic Beck Spring Dolomite, southern California, U.S.A., contain microstructures that record variations in the morphology of microbial communities as well as the timing of degradation versus lithification in the communities. These processes are represented by five end-member microbial microstructures: 1) distinct laminated microstructure; 2) diffuse laminated microstructure; 3) distinct clotted microstructure; 4) diffuse and regular clotted microstructure; and 5) diffuse and irregular clotted microstructure. These microstructures are distinguished by fabrics defined by organic inclusions. In distinct microstructures, organic inclusions sharply define microbial features, such as laminae that are laterally continuous for millimeters or 50–200 micron diameter microdots. The contacts between distinct microstructures are always sharp. In diffuse microstructures, zones of organic inclusions lack distinct boundaries; neighboring laminae and clots grade into each other within tens of microns, and boundaries between microbial structures and encasing cements are indistinct. Diffuse microstructures grade into each other and into distinct microstructures in a systematic way that suggests that differences are due to variations in the timing of mineralization relative to growth and degradation of microbial communities. Sharply defined textures in distinct microstructures suggest that lithification started during growth of the microbial community, and the close spatial association but lack of intergrading between distinct laminated and distinct clotted microstructures suggests that they formed from two distinct microbial communities that lived in the same environment. By contrast, diffuse microstructures formed where lithification occurred after the onset of decay and degradation of the primary growth structure. The continuum from distinct microbial textures through more diffuse and irregular textures documents variations in the timing of lithification relative to growth and decay of the microbial community. Thus, where petrographic preservation is extremely good, such as in the Beck Spring Dolomite, sub-millimeter-scale microbial microstructures record a gradation between growth and degraded microbial structures depending on the relative timing of lithification and heterotrophic decay.
Grapevine row orientation affects light environment, growth, and development of black nightshade (Solanum nigrum)

Abstract Row orientation in vineyards can affect the quantity of light intercepted by the crop's canopy. Consequently, the light available to weeds growing under the canopy might also be affected, with potential implications for their physiology, growth, and productivity. This hypothesis was tested in 2003 and 2004 in a central California vineyard having rows oriented east–west (EW) and north–south (NS) in a randomized complete block design. In April of both years, potted black nightshade seedlings were placed under grapevines of both row orientations and grown for about 10 wk. Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) at the weed canopy zone (WCZ) of NS rows was bimodal, with peaks occurring at about 09:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. At those times, PAR approached 500 μmol m−2 s−1 (between 30 and 40% of full sun). In contrast, maximum PAR in the WCZ of EW rows was generally less than 75 μmol m−2 s−1 throughout the day. The ratio of red to far-red light was also greater in NS than EW rows in the morning and aftern...
Cutaneous Electrosurgery in a Patient with a Deep Brain Stimulator

Background.Deep brain stimulators are implantable devices with electrical activity used to treat certain movement disorders such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. Similar to implantable cardiac devices, use of electrosurgery on patients with these devices may produce adverse effects.Case
Quantitative Proteomics Characterization of Chromatin-Remodeling Complexes in Health and Disease

Recent advances in the field of chromatin remodeling have elucidated its role in various cellular processes beyond transcription. The intricate dynamics and interplay between several chromatin-remodeling complexes has been shown to be responsible for events ranging from cell differentiation, epigenetic regulation, and human diseases. One of the biggest challenges in understanding the function of these large protein complexes is dissecting their assembly, interactions with other proteins, and identifying the role of individual components. Technological advances in quantitative proteomics make it one of the most sought after technique in identifying and analyzing multiprotein complexes and posttranslational modifications. In particular, multidimensional protein identification technology and spectral counting-based quantitative proteomic analysis is a popular choice for analyzing chromatin remodeling complexes. The reason being they are straightforward approaches and are able to identify and quantify low abundant proteins in a label-free manner. This chapter highlights the recent findings of chromatin-remodeling complexes with respect to cellular processes and disease states and the role of quantitative proteomics has played in these findings.
Potassium tert‐Heptoxide

[20484-37-1] C7H15KO (MW 154.32) InChI = 1S/C7H15O.K/c1-4-7(8,5-2)6-3;/h4-6H2,1-3H3;/q-1;+1 InChIKey = LZDGSLFCXXQIQC-UHFFFAOYSA-N (strong, sterically hindered alkoxide base; particularly capable of effecting Hofmann elimination of alkyl halides1) Alternate Name: potassium triethylmethoxide. Solubility: sol THF, DME, aromatic hydrocarbons. Preparative Methods: 3.0 M solution of the red reagent in Et3COH is prepared by reacting potassium metal with an excess of the anhydrous alcohol at 140 °C for 2.5 h.1 Solutions of the base of approximately 2.0 M concentration in xylene or undecane are obtained by heating potassium metal with 1.2 equiv of the alcohol at 160 °C for 6.0 h.1 The reaction of the anhydrous alcohol with a slight excess of oil-free Potassium Hydride in THF or other solvents produces the reagent in 3–15 min.2 After the excess insoluble KH settles, the solution of the base is removed via a cannula or a syringe. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: Et3COK solutions should be handled with the same precautions that are employed for Potassium tert-Butoxide solutions, i.e. avoid contact with the eyes, skin, and clothing. Conduct reactions under a dry nitrogen or argon atmosphere. For critical experiments, it is recommended that the reagent be freshly prepared. Use in a fume hood.
Longitudinal assessment of amniotic fluid volume in monoamniotic twin gestations

Objective The aim of this study is to describe normal amniotic fluid volume through gestation in a cohort of normal monoamniotic (MA) twins. Method Our ultrasound database was queried for MA twin gestations from 2004 to 2011. Monochorionic twin pregnancies mimicking MA gestations, such as twin-twin transfusion syndrome, were excluded. Complicated MA gestations and higher-order multifetal gestations involving an MA pair were excluded. Thirty subjects were followed with serial amniotic fluid index (AFI) measurements from 15 to 32 weeks gestation. Using each AFI measurement as a unique data point, a quadratic regression model and a multi-level growth model were developed against gestational age (GA), providing a predicted AFI at each completed week, with a 95% confidence interval. Results The quadratic regression least squares and multi-level growth models yielded the same curve comparing the AFI to the GA. Figure 1 depicts the model with the 95% confidence interval for normal amniotic fluid volume by GA for normal MA twins. Table 2 shows the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles for AFI by week from 15 to 32 weeks. Conclusion We have generated normative data for amniotic fluid volume across gestation in uncomplicated MA twins. This can be used as a reference when managing MA pregnancies. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence for the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor As a Target for Lung Cancer Prevention

Purpose: There is a need to identify lung cancer prevention mechanisms. All- trans -retinoic acid (RA) was reported previously to inhibit N -nitrosamine-4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3 pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) carcinogenic transformation of BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cells (J. Langenfeld et al ., Oncogene, 13: 1983–1990, 1996). This study was undertaken to identify pathways targeted during this chemoprevention. Experimental Design: Because epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpression is frequent in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) and bronchial preneoplasia, BEAS-2B cells, carcinogen-transformed BEAS-2BNNK cells, and retinoid chemoprevented BEAS-2BNNK RA cells were each examined for EGFR expression. Whether RA treatment regulated directly EGFR expression or reporter plasmid activity was studied. RA effects on epidermal growth factor (EGF) induction of EGFR-phosphotyrosine levels, cyclin D1 expression and mitogenesis were examined in BEAS-2B cells. Results: Findings reveal that NNK-mediated transformation of BEAS-2B cells increased EGFR expression. RA treatment repressed EGFR expression and reporter plasmid activity in these cells. This treatment reduced EGF-dependent mitogenesis as well as EGFR-associated phosphotyrosine levels and cyclin D1 expression. These findings extend prior work by highlighting EGFR as a chemoprevention target in the lung. Notably, RA treatment prevented transformation as well as outgrowth of EGFR overexpressing bronchial epithelial cells, despite NNK exposure. After acute NNK exposure, p53-induced species that appear after DNA damage or oxidative stress were evident before an observed increase in EGFR expression. Conclusions: These findings indicate how effective chemoprevention prevents carcinogenic transformation of bronchial epithelial cells when repair of genomic damage does not select against EGFR overexpressing cells. This implicates EGFR as a chemoprevention target in the carcinogen-exposed bronchial epithelium.
Exosomes: Looking back three decades and into the future

Exosomes are extracellular membrane vesicles whose biogenesis by exocytosis of multivesicular endosomes was discovered in 1983. Since their discovery 30 years ago, it has become clear that exosomes contribute to many aspects of physiology and disease, including intercellular communication. We discuss the initial experiments that led to the discovery of exosomes and highlight some of the exciting current directions in the field.
Are plants vectors for transmission of infection in acute care

This article reviews relevant research that sheds light on the role of plants and flowers in hospital-acquired infections. After a review of a survey of acute care hospital policies, evidence-based practice recommendations intended to reduce nosocomial infections in acute and critical care are provided.
Fracture Energy Optimization in Synthetic Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composites

A study has been carried out on cementitious composites reinforced with various synthetic fibers, focusing on their tensile behavior, toughness, and fracture mechanisms. A model is formulated to predict the tensile behavior and fracture energy of fiber reinforced cementitious composites (FRC) with short, randomly distributed fibers. The model accounts for the pull-out of fibers oblique to the fracture surfaces (including snubbing friction effect), and the variation of the fiber/matrix interfacial shear stress during pull-out. Experimental and analytical results are shown to be in close agreement for the one class of fiber reinforcement which best satisfies the assumptions of the model. Systems which violate the assumptions exhibited different failure mechanisms and were observed to show less satisfactory reinforcement performance, especially the composite fracture energy. The model is used to examine the effect of fiber properties on composite post-cracking behavior and is useful in design of such material systems with optimum performance and cost effectiveness.
Domestic Versus Overseas Apparel Production: Dialogue with San Francisco-Based Manufacturers

This exploratory study identified issues and concerns related to the American apparel industry. Dialogue with apparel manufacturers sought their responses to the following: factors influencing appa...
Magneto-transport Properties and Thermally Activated Flux Flow in Ba(Fe 0 . 9 1 Co 0 . 0 9 ) 2 As 2 Superconductor

Thermally assisted flux flow (TAFF) based on magneto-resistivity and ac susceptibility measurements is studied in a Ba(Fe0.91Co0.09)2As2(T c=25.3 K) sample in magnetic fields up to 18 T. In addition to the upper critical field μ 0 H c2 and the coherence length ξ(0), the flux flow activation energy U(T,H) has also been determined. The resistive transition width is proportional to μ 0 H, in contrast to Tinkham’s theoretical prediction. By applying Fisher’s model, the glass melting transition temperature T g, which occurs in the upper TAFF state and not in the zero resistivity vortex solid regime, is calculated. The onset of TAFF temperature and the crossover temperature T x from TAFF to flux flow are determined. By contrasting the ac susceptibility data with the resistivity data, considerable flux penetration appears even in the zero resistivity state, in addition to ac losses. The H-T phase diagram is drawn and shows weak pinning regime as the field approaches μ 0 H c2, and the strength of the weak pinning decreases to 0 with increasing magnetic field from 0 to 18 T.
Nonlinear filtering using generalized subband decomposition

This paper addresses a nonlinear restoration technique based on generalized multiresolution decomposition. The input signal corrupted by impulsive and nonimpulsive noise is decomposed into multiresolution bands using order statistic (OS) filters. Then nonlinear filtering is performed on these bands using denoising techniques. Simulations show that this scheme has better edge and sharp feature preservation, and better noise reduction properties compared to other OS filter based techniques.
Recent Progress in Kahler Geometry

In recent years, there are many progress made in Kahler geometry. In particular, the topics related to the problems of the existence and uniqueness of extremal Kahler metrics, as well as obstructions to the existence of such metrics in general Kahler manifold. In this talk, we will report some recent developments in this direction. In particular, we will discuss the progress recently obtained in understanding the metric structure of the infinite di­ mensional space of Kaehler potentials, and their applications to the problems mentioned above. We also will discuss some recent on Kaehler Ricci flow.
Book Review: Moon on the Meadow: Collected Poems

Author: Pia Taavila. Reviewer: Aimee Gramblin Publisher: Gallaudet University Press, 2008. ISBN: 978-1-56368-364-0, Paper, 140 pages Cost: $24.95
Measurments of two-photon absorption and excited-state absorption in molten organic materials by the Z-scan technique

Delocalized π-electron organic molecules have been studied extensively for applications in photonics and optical limiting. Two-photon absorption (TEA) in these materials poses a limitation for photonics applications but is desirable in optical limiting. Nonlinear absorption can be enhanced at high intensities if the material also exhibits linear absorption from the two-photon excited state.
Response to: 'is chondroitin sulfate plus glucosamine superior to placebo in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis?' by Zeng et al.

We would like to thank Zeng et al 1 for their comments on the Multicentre Osteoarthritis interVEntion trial with SYSADOA (MOVES)2 and the Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT)3 and its long-term follow-up.4 In MOVES,2 glucosamine plus chondroitin sulfate was non-inferior to celecoxib (primary outcome: mean decrease in Western Ontario and McMaster (WOMAC) pain score) in 606 patients with knee osteoarthritis with moderate–severe pain. A placebo arm was not included because celecoxib, the reference treatment, had proven efficacy versus placebo in knee osteoarthritis, for example5 ,6; so, this was felt to be unethical and unnecessary. While Zeng et al 1 agreed with this decision, they brought up some interesting points. The original 24-week …
Stylized shadows

While much research has focused on rendering physically-correct shadows, a "correct" shadow often exhibits unnecessary detail that distracts from the primary subject of the scene. Artists often prefer to have creative control over the rendered appearance of the shadow. This paper presents an algorithm offering control over stylized shadows, based on four intuitive parameters - inflation, brightness, softness, and abstraction - that together support a broad range of effects. The algorithm, which works largely in image space, can easily be incorporated into existing rendering pipelines, and is independent of scene geometry or shadow determination method.
Potato Leafroll Virus Net Necrosis: Identifying Pest Management Tradeoffs Among Inoculation Interval, Storage Length, and Tuber Weight

In the Columbia Basin region of the Pacific Northwest, the green peach aphid, Myzus Persicae (Sulzer), is the predominant vector of the potato leafroll virus to potato plants, Solanum tuberosum L. Potato plants inoculated with the virus may develop tubers expressing net necrosis before or during storage, which can significantly reduce a crop's commercial value. In the field, prophylactic pesticides have been used traditionally to suppress aphid populations, thereby preventing inoculation and the advent of net necrosis. Out of the field, storage management of infected tubers has played a key part in managing the incidence of net necrosis. To identify potential tradeoffs between costs of spraying pesticides to control aphid populations and marketing activities involving storage management, data are analyzed from an extensive USDA-ARS field experiment. A probit model corrected for spatial correlation is used to predict the probability that individual tubers expressed net necrosis. The model is jointly conditioned on the inoculation interval (which is the time after planting that a plant was inoculated by viruliferous aphids), the tuber storage period, and the tuber weight. Consistent with previous empirical work, over the inoculation interval the probability of net necrosis monotonically increases to a maximum at ≍90 d and then tends to decrease thereafter. The empirical model reveals new results, showing that net necrosis probabilities increase with longer storage periods and are notably higher for larger tubers. Jointly, these findings enable us to identify pest management tradeoffs that can help reduce the incidence of net necrosis to acceptable levels.
Notes on a Chalcid (Syntomaspis druparum Boh.) Infesting Apple Seeds.

On July 27, 1906, while examining some crab apples at Ithaca, N. Y., for the apple maggot, Rhagolitis pomonella Walsh, the writer noticed that many seeds contained a small Hymenopterous larva. It occupied only a small portion of the interior and was evidently devouring the kernel. During the remainder of the summer the seeds were examined at frequent intervals, and it was found that the larvA¦ gradually increased in size while the kernel slowly disappeared until in September the larva alone occupied the cavity of the seed.
Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to Examine Barriers to Healthcare Access for Hispanic and Latino Immigrants in the U.S. South

Geographic barriers to accessing timely and appropriate primary health care services have been identified as significant social determinants of health that contribute to the growing health inequities among Hispanic and Latino immigrants in the United States. The purpose of this study was to examine the geographic factors that serve as barriers to healthcare access for Hispanic and Latino immigrants in the southern community of Louisville, Kentucky. Accessibility to healthcare services was examined using spatial analysis techniques, a Geographic Information System and geographic data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Louisville and Jefferson County Information Consortium. Results from this study indicated that physical location, socioeconomic factors, distance, and transportation served as barriers to accessing healthcare services. Findings provide significant implications for future research and policy-based interventions focused on eliminating geographic barriers and promoting social and health equity for the underserved.