cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Racial and insurance disparities among patients presenting with chest pain in the US: 2009-2015.

Abstract Background Nationally representative studies have shown significant racial and socioeconomic disparities in the triage and diagnostic evaluation of patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with chest pain. However, these studies were conducted over a decade ago and have not been updated amidst growing awareness of healthcare disparities. Objective We aimed to reevaluate the effect of race and insurance type on triage acuity and diagnostic testing to assess if these disparities persist. Methods We identified ED visits for adults presenting with chest pain in the 2009–2015 National Hospital Ambulatory Health Care Surveys. Using weighted logistic regression, we examined associations between race and payment type with triage acuity and likelihood of ordering electrocardiography (ECG) or cardiac enzymes. Results A total of 10,441 patients met inclusion criteria, corresponding to an estimated 51.4 million patients nationwide. When compared with white patients, black patients presenting with chest pain were less likely to have an ECG ordered (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.69–0.99). Patients with Medicare, Medicaid, and no insurance were also less likely to have an ECG ordered compared to patients with private insurance (Medicare: OR = 0.79, CI = 0.63–0.99; Medicaid: OR = 0.67, CI = 0.53–0.84; no insurance: OR = 0.68, CI = 0.55–0.84). Those with Medicare and Medicaid were less likely to be triaged emergently (Medicare: OR = 0.84, CI = 0.71–0.99; Medicaid: OR = 0.76, CI = 0.64–0.91) and those with Medicare were less likely to have cardiac enzymes ordered (OR = 0.84, CI = 0.72–0.98). Conclusions Persistent racial and insurance disparities exist in the evaluation of chest pain in the ED. Compared to earlier studies, disparities in triage acuity and cardiac enzymes appear to have diminished, but disparities in ECG ordering have not. Given current Class I recommendations for ECGs on all patients presenting with chest pain emergently, our findings highlight the need for improvement in this area.
Designing Local Inputs to Identify Link Failures in A Diffusive Network: A Graph Perspective

This work studies the design of inputs to detect link failures in a diffusive network. Specifically, an input is applied at one particular node and the state is measured at the same node, with the goal of discerning a remote link removal event in the network. Graph-based results are developed to understand: 1) whether or not the failure link can be identified via input design, 2) which energy-bounded input produces the largest deviation from the nominal, and 3) how a persistent input can be used for effective detection. An example is also presented to demonstrate some of the graphical results.
An 88.6nW ozone pollutant sensing interface IC with a 159 dB dynamic range

This paper presents a low power resistive sensor interface IC designed at 0.6V for ozone pollutant sensing. The large resistance range of gas sensors poses challenges in designing a low power sensor interface. Exiting architectures are insufficient for achieving a high dynamic range while enabling low VDD operation, resulting in high power consumption regardless of the adopted architecture. We present an adaptive architecture that provides baseline resistance cancellation and dynamic current control to enable low VDD operation while maintaining a dynamic range of 159dB across 20kΩ-1MΩ. The sensor interface IC is fabricated in a 65nm bulk CMOS process and consumes 88.6nW of power which is 300x lower than the state-of-art. The full system power ranges between 116 nW - 1.09 μW which includes the proposed sensor interface IC, analog to digital converter and peripheral circuits. The sensor interface's performance was verified using custom resistive metal-oxide sensors for ozone concentrations from 50 ppb to 900 ppb.
The Importance of Sonographic Imaging With Alcoholic Liver Disease: A Case Study:

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), a precursor to alcohol-induced cirrhosis, is a disease caused by excessive ingestion of alcoholic substances that directly affects liver functions. Abnormal liver fun...
Using Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing Results to Accelerate Alzheimer Disease Clinical Trial Recruitment.

Introduction The apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is the strongest known genetic risk factor for sporadic Alzheimer disease (AD). APOE can be used as an enrichment strategy or inclusion criterion for AD prevention trials. Personal genomics companies market direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests, including APOE. We assessed DTC APOE testing usage among enrollees of the University of California Irvine Consent-to-Contact Registry, an online recruitment registry, and attitudes toward using this information in clinical trial recruitment. Methods We emailed links to an electronic survey to registry enrollees age 50 years or older. We assessed participants' use of DTC services, willingness to learn APOE status, and willingness to share genetic information. Logistic regression models assessed relationships between DTC testing usage and demographic characteristics, and with willingness to share results to assist trial recruitment. Results Among 1312 responders (57% response rate), few (7%) had used DTC testing for APOE. Non-Hispanic Asian enrollees were 93% less likely to have used DTC testing, compared with non-Hispanic Whites [95% confidence interval: (0.01, 0.67)]. Willingness to share APOE information for study recruitment was >90% for both users and nonusers. Conclusions Matching participants to trials on the basis of DTC APOE information may be an effective way to streamline AD prevention trial recruitment.
High-precision potassium isotopic measurements by collision cell equipped MC-ICPMS

Abstract We report techniques for measuring 41K/39K ratios using a Nu Instruments Sapphire double-focusing multi-collector ICPMS, equipped with a hexapole collision/reaction gas cell. Large Ar-hydride spectral interferences, as well as the 40Ar+ ion beam from the Ar-plasma, are effectively eliminated through a series of reactions with H2 gas in the collision/reaction cell. This allows the 39K+ and 41K+ ion beams to be measured directly and without offsetting peak centers. With optimized operating conditions, 41K/39K can be routinely obtained with an external reproducibility of 0.07 per mil (2 standard deviations), facilitating resolution of small K isotopic variations among terrestrial samples. The signal intensity can be further increased (1200 V/ppm for 39K) by utilizing a desolvating nebulizer (Apex Omega) for introducing samples, making measurements of low-K samples possible. We evaluate the effects of matrix elements, mismatch of K concentration, and mismatch of acid molarity on the accuracy of sample-standard bracketing measurements. A relatively straightforward method for accurate determination of K isotopic ratios is likely to accelerate development and utilization of a wide range of potassium studies, such as into its global geochemical cycle.
Cilioretinal Artery Occlusion as the Presenting Manifestation of Left Atrial Myxoma

Purpose:This work reports a case of left atrial myxoma presenting with cilioretinal artery occlusion.Methods:A case report is discussed.Results:A 57-year-old man was referred for acute vision loss ...
Carfilzomib, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone Followed by Lenalidomide Maintenance for Prevention of Symptomatic Multiple Myeloma in Patients With High-risk Smoldering Myeloma: A Phase 2 Nonrandomized Controlled Trial.

Importance High-risk smoldering myeloma has a 5-year risk of progression to symptomatic multiple myeloma of approximately 75%. Treatment with lenalidomide decreases the risk of progression; however, novel triplet regimens are superior, and earlier disease may be more treatment sensitive. Objective To evaluate the use of carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (KRd) with lenalidomide maintenance therapy as early intervention in high-risk smoldering myeloma and to determine the rates of minimal residual disease (MRD)–negative complete response (CR). Design, Setting, and Participants In this single-arm, single-center, phase 2 nonrandomized controlled trial, responses were evaluated at every cycle during KRd treatment and every 3 cycles subsequently. Bone marrow biopsies and imaging were performed by cycle 8 and then annually. The study enrolled patients from May 29, 2012, to July 23, 2020, at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, a highly specialized tertiary cancer center. Patient key eligibility criteria included a diagnosis of high-risk smoldering myeloma based on the Mayo Clinic, Spanish, and/or Rajkumar, Mateos, and Landgren criteria. Interventions Patients received eight 4-week cycles of intravenous carfilzomib 36 mg/m2(first 2 doses, 20 mg/m2), dexamethasone (20 mg, cycles 1-4; 10 mg, cycles 5-8 twice weekly), and lenalidomide 25 mg (days 1-21) followed by twenty-four 28-day cycles of maintenance lenalidomide 10 mg (days 1-21). Stem cell harvest and storage were optional. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the MRD-negative CR rate. Key secondary outcomes included duration of MRD-negative CR and progression to multiple myeloma. Results A total of 54 patients (median age, 59 years [range, 40-79 years]; 30 men [55.6%]; and 2 Asian [3.7%], 15 Black [27.8%], 1 Hispanic [1.9%], and 36 White [66.7%] patients) were enrolled, with a median potential follow-up time of 31.9 months (range, 6.7-102.9 months). The MRD-negative CR rate was 70.4% (95% CI, 56.4%-82.0%), with a median sustained duration of 5.5 years (95% CI, 3.7 years to not estimable). The 8-year probability of being free from progression to multiple myeloma was 91.2% (95% CI, 67.4%-97.9%), and no deaths occurred. Nonhematologic grade 3 adverse events occurred in 21 patients (38.9%) and included thromboembolism, rash, and lung infection, with no grade 4 events. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this phase 2 nonrandomized controlled trial suggest that treatment of high-risk smoldering myeloma with novel triplet regimens, such as KRd and lenalidomide maintenance therapy, may alter the natural history of smoldering myeloma by significantly delaying development of end-organ disease. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm this favorable benefit-to-risk profile. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT01572480
IMPLEMENTING OPTIMAL ATTRIBUTES CONTROL CHARTS

We present a FORTRAN program that can be used for determining control limits for a p, np, c, or u chart such that, assuming known parameter values, the absolute deviation between the average run length and a specified nomial value is minimized for each ..
Domestic and International Economic Policy Convergence

It’s clear that we are living in a world that is dramatically different from the world of ten years ago. There’s no longer the same difference of view between nations as to how economic life ought to be organized. The market has definitely come to the fore. The World Trade Organization (WTO) is now moving toward potential universality. It already has 130 members and there are 30 or more countries trying to accede to the organization. But, although there’s a greater unity in terms of some of the fundamental objectives of how things should be organized there are still some very important differences of interests between different countries.
Circuit Simulation Based Validation of Flip-Flop Robustness to Multiple Node Charge Collection

In modern scaled process technologies a single impinging ionizing radiation particle is increasingly likely to upset multiple circuit nodes and produce logic transients that contribute to the soft error rate. Consequently, hardening flip-flops to transients at the data and control inputs, as well as to single event upsets, due to either single or multi-node upsets is increasingly important. This paper presents a circuit simulation based methodology for pre-layout hardness validation to multi-node upsets. The methodology is applied to the development of a lower power and area radiation hardened flip-flop design, as well as a number of previous hardened flip-flops. Comparison of the hardness, as measured by estimated upset cross-section, is also facilitated. The results also show the importance of specific circuit design aspects to achieving hardness. One of the comparisons to prior designs includes a comparison of the cross-section as determined by the proposed circuit simulation methodology to ion beam results.
The Moonwatch Program: A Model for Amateur Contributions to the ISY

Largely forgotten today is the role that amateur astronomy played in the early days of space exploration. For example, 1987 is not only the 30th anniversary of the first artificial satellite but also of history’s most successful global organization of amateur astronomers: Moonwatch.
Decreased Plasma Membrane Thiol Concentration Is Associated with Increased Osmotic Fragility of Erythrocytes in Zinc-Deficient Rats

Zinc deficiency leads to pathological signs that are related to impaired function of plasma membrane proteins. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of dietary zinc status on the sulfhydryl (SH) content of erythrocyte plasma membranes and erythrocyte function. Three experiments were performed. In the first, immature male rats were fed for 21 d either a low-zinc (<1.0 mg/kg) diet free choice (-ZnAL), an adequate-zinc (100 mg/kg) diet free choice (+ZnAL), or the adequate-zinc diet limited to the intake of -ZnAL pair-mates (+ZnPF). Tail blood was sampled to measure osmotic fragility and SH concentration of erythrocyte membrane proteins. The zinc-deficient rats were then repleted for 2 d and erythrocytes assayed for fragility and SH content. In the second experiment blood was sampled at 3-d intervals to determine the time course of change in fragility and SH concentration. In the third experiment the SH concentration of erythrocyte band 3 protein and the binding of zinc to isolated plasma membranes were measured. SH concentration decreased from approximately 75 nmol/mg protein to 68 nmol/mg protein during 21 d of depletion and returned to control level within 2 d of repletion. There was an inverse relationship between osmotic fragility and SH concentration of erythrocyte membrane proteins. Maximal decrease in SH occurred within 6 d of consuming the low-zinc diet. The SH content of band 3 protein isolated from deficient rats was also significantly lower than that of pair-fed controls (45 vs. 51 nmol/mg protein). The zinc-binding affinity of plasma membrane proteins tended to be decreased by zinc deficiency. In summary, low-zinc status lowers the plasma membrane SH concentration, and the decreased reducing potential is inversely related to osmotic fragility, and presumably, with impaired volume recovery of erythrocytes.
Map usage in virtual environments: orientation issues

Navigation tasks in large virtual environments often call for the use of a virtual map. However, all maps are not alike. Performance on navigation tasks in general has been shown to vary depending on the orientation of the map with respect to the user's frame of reference. This paper reports the results of an experiment investigating orientation issues of virtual maps for use during navigation tasks. Participants were given a virtual map in either a north-up or forward-up configuration. Performance on search tasks was measured in terms of search time and errors. Results indicate that targeted search tasks (tasks requiring only the egocentric reference frame) are best served by a forward-up alignment while primed and naive search tasks (tasks requiring information from the world reference frame) prefer a north-up alignment. Both types of maps are affected by the ability of user to perform mental rotations.
Dyslipidemia in children with type 2 diabetes vs. obesity.

Objective: To compare the frequency and severity of dyslipidemia between subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and non-diabetic obese group (OB) subjects, followed in a pediatric subspecialty clinic. Research design and methods: One hundred and four OB subjects seen consecutively by one physician and 67 pediatric subjects diagnosed with T2DM (negative antibodies) were screened from an institutional review board-approved database. Fifty-two T2DM and 75 OB subjects with fasting lipid profiles measured at one hospital’s laboratory were included. Results: Both OB and T2DM subjects were predominantly Mexican American. Comparing T2DM at diagnosis or uncontrolled (UC) and OB, mean ± SD age was 14.3 ± 2.3 and 11.4 ± 3.7 with body mass index-Z score of 2.02 ± 0.67 and 2.46 ± 0.45, respectively (both p 200 mg/dL (5.17 mmol/L) were 55.8, 22.7, and 10%; with low-density lipoprotein >130 mg/dL (3.36 mmol/L) were 39.4, 12.5, and 10%; with triglycerides >150 mg/dL (1.68 mmol/L) were 65.1, 38.7, and 12.5%; and with high-density lipoprotein <35 mg/dL (0.91 mmol/L) were 40, 22.2, and 10%. Over 80% of the T2DM subjects improved their lipid profile with improved glycemic control as hemoglobin A1c decreased from 10.85 ± 2.17 to 7.6 ± 2%. Conclusions: Dyslipidemia is a frequent comorbidity of obesity and T2DM, starting in childhood, and poses a major public health risk. Dyslipidemia in pediatric subjects with UC T2DM is significantly worse than in OB subjects but is similar to OB subjects when diabetes was better controlled. Earlier use of lipid-lowering drugs should be considered in pediatric T2DM patients who achieve tight glycemic control, yet their dyslipidemia persists.
SPECIFIC HEAT ANOMALY FOR H ≥ 28.5 T IN CeIrIn5

Recently Takeuchi reported a weak, 'metamagnetic-like' increase in the magnetization around 42 T in single crystals of CeIrIn5 for field in the c-direction. We report specific heat measurements on single crystal CeIrIn5, H parallel c-axis, measured in the dc hybrid magnet at NHMFL in Tallahassee between 1.4 and 10 K. A clear anomaly in C/T in 35 T is observed to peak at 1.8 K, with an entropy of 6% of RIn2. This anomaly grows in size and shifts upwards in temperature (both monotonically) with increasing H until at 45 T Tpeak=4.1 K, with the entropy associated with the transition equal to 14% of RIn2. C/T data at 32 T show3 only the high temperature side of the peak occurring above 1.4 K, while C/T data at 28.5 T show no anomaly down to 1.4 K. This is consistent with our Tpeak vs H data, which imply Tpeak → 0 at 26 T.
Polynomial time algorithm for computing the top Betti numbers of semi-algebraic sets defined by quadratic inequalities

For any fixed l > 0, we present an algorithm which takes as input a semi-algebraic set, S, defined by P1 ≥ 0,...,Ps ≥ 0, where each Pi ∈ R[X1,...,Xk] has degree ≤ 2, and computes the top l Betti numbers of S, bk-1(S), ..., bk-l(S), in polynomial time. The complexity of the algorithm, stated more precisely, is Σi=0l+2 (si k2O((l,s)). For fixed l, the complexity of the algorithm can be expressed as sl+2 k2O(l), which is polynomial in the input parameters s and k. To our knowledge this is the first polynomial time algorithm for computing non-trivial topological invariants of semi-algebraic sets in Rk defined by polynomial inequalities, where the number of inequalities is not fixed and the polynomials are allowed to have degree greater than one. For fixed s, we obtain by letting l = k, an algorithm for computing all the Betti numbers of S whose complexity is k2O(s)
Review of possible paths for abiotic methylation of mercury(II) in the aquatic environment

Abstract High concentrations of methylmercury in freshwater and marine fish lends an urgency to the problem of how inorganic mercury, the predominant pollutant, is converted to methylmercury in the aquatic environment. Numerous experiments by microbiologists suggest that biotic sediments are major sites for methylation of inorganic mercury and that sulfate-reducing bacteria contribute considerably to methylmercury production. However, the sufficient but low sulfate concentration needed for sulfate-reducing bacteria to produce methylmercury makes it difficult to explain its ubiquitous occurrence in coastal and deep sea marine organisms and sediments. In addition, the high concentration of mercury(II) added to samples allows only mercury-resistant species, which do not predominate in the aquatic environment, to survive. Finally, sterilization methods change chemistry as well as biology, and conclusions based on experiments comparing active and sterile sediments are not definitive. For these reasons there is a strong possibility that abiotic methylation of mercury(II) contributes to the formation of methylmercury. This review emphasizes potential abiotic methylation of mercury(II) by methylcobalamin, methyltin compounds, and humic matter. Although methylcobalamin readily methylates mercury(II) in non-environmental matrices, it is least likely of the three methyl donors because it is not abundant in the aquatic environment. In contrast methyltin compounds (mono-, di-, and trimethyltin) occur in water, biota, and sediments of the marine environment. All three methylate mercury(II) in seawater and may be involved in abiotic methylation. Humic matter is the most promising environmental methylating agent for several reasons. Its concentration in waters and sediments is high. It is associated with the solubility and thus mobility of mercury in freshwaters and marine waters, probably by complexation. In addition, several model studies have shown that humic matter effectively methylates mercury(II) forming methylmercury.
Characterization of the antigenic, immunogenic, and pathogenic variation of infectious bursal disease virus due to propagation in different host systems (bursa, embryo, and cell culture). II. Antigenicity at the epitope level.

In vitro and in ovo virus neutralization assays were conducted to assess the role of different host systems in infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) antigenic and immunogenic variation. Four different strains, two variant (1084 E and GLS) and two standard (Edgar and STC), were propagated separately in the bursa of Fabricius and embryos, and were compared with cell culture-adapted preparations of the homologous strains. Chicken polyclonal antisera were prepared against each IBDV and neutralizing antibody titres were determined. Normalized IBDV antibody concentrations were used in neutralization assays against homologous and heterologous IBDVs in 10-day-old specific pathogen free embryos. Both antigenic and immunogenic changes occurred in IBDVs evaluated, as evidenced by differences in the ability of normalized antibody to neutralize IBDV propagated in different host systems. Antibody induced by bursal-derived IBDV neutralized all isolates equally well, whereas antibody induced by cell culture-derived virus neutralized bursal-derived IBDV much less effectively.
The thermodynamics of bovine and porcine insulin and proinsulin association determined by concentration difference spectroscopy

Difference spectroscopy was used to determine the equilibrium constants and thermodynamic parameters for the monomer-dimer association of bovine and porcine insulin and bovine proinsulin at pH 2.0 and 7.0. At pH 2 delta G degree 25, delta S degree, and delta H degree for dimerization of bovine insulin were found to be -6.6 kcal/mol, -18 cal/mol-deg, and -12 kcal/mol, respectively. Porcine insulin behaved similarly to bovine insulin in its dimerization properties in that delta G degree 25, delta S degree, and delta H degree were found to be -6.8 kcal/mol, -14 cal/mol-deg, and -11 kcal/mol, respectively. At pH 7 delta G degree 25, delta S degree, and delta H degree for dimerization of bovine insulin were found to be -7.2 kcal/mol, -16 cal/mol/deg, and -12 kcal/mol, respectively. At pH 7.0 delta G degree 25, delta S degree, and delta H degree for dimerization of porcine insulin were -6.7 kcal/mol, -11.6 cal/mol-deg, and -10 kcal/mol, respectively. The similarity in the thermodynamic parameters of both insulin species at the different pH's suggests that there are minimal structural changes at the monomer-monomer contact site over this pH range. The dimerization of both insulin species is under enthalpic control. This may suggest that the formation of the insulin dimer is not driven by hydrophobic bonding but, rather, is driven by the formation between subunits of four hydrogen bonds in an apolar environment. At pH 2 delta G degree 25, delta S degree, and delta H degree for dimerization of bovine proinsulin were found to be -5.3 kcal/mol, -26 cal/mol-deg, and -13 kcal/mol, respectively. At pH 7 delta G degree 25, delta S degree, and delta H degree for dimerization of proinsulin were -5.9 kcal/mol, -4.2 cal/mol-deg, and -7.2 kcal/mol, respectively. Although the presence of the C-peptide on proinsulin does not drastically affect the overall free energy change of dimer formation (as compared to insulin), the other thermodynamic parameters are rather drastically altered. This may be because of electrostatic interactions of groups on the C-peptide with groups on the B-chain which are near the subunit contact site in the insulin dimer.
Toldt’s fascia flap: a new technique for repairing large diaphragmatic hernias

The most popular techniques for repairing large diaphragmatic defects involve the use of synthetic patches. We present an alternative approach using living tissue. We reviewed our cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) diagnosed within the first 24 h of life from 1991 to 2003. Toldt’s fascia (TF) flap was used to repair defects that were too large to repair primarily even though the anterior rim of the diaphragm was present. After confirming that a small medial muscle remnant of the diaphragm was present, its mesothelial covering was incised, and the incision was extended to the TF far enough to create a flap sufficiently large to repair the defect. The TF flap, consisting of the small medial muscle remnant, TF, peritoneum, and retroperitoneal connective tissue, was mobilized carefully from the ipsilateral kidney and adrenal gland, and the repair completed with interrupted sutures using nonabsorbable material. We used this TF flap approach in seven of 43 patients with CDH. Two had right-sided CDH. Six survived. The mean size of the diaphragmatic defects in the seven TF flap cases was 5.43±0.53×3.86±1.07 cm, which was significantly larger than the defects in direct primary repair cases (3.40±0.77×2.03±0.59 cm) (p<0.01). The six survivors had good outcomes, and none of them have had recurrence of herniation or required any additional surgical intervention (mean follow-up period: 4.7 years). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of TF being used to repair large diaphragmatic hernias. Our technique is simple and has proven to be reliable for durable restoration of the diaphragm, suggesting that it could reduce the dependence on synthetic patch repair, which is associated with certain long-term complications.
TEM characterization of U–7Mo/Al–2Si dispersion fuel irradiated to intermediate and high fission densities

This paper will discuss the results of TEM analysis that was performed on two samples taken from the low flux and high flux sides of the fuel plate with U-7Mo fuel particles dispersed in U-2Si matrix. The corresponding local fission density of the fuel particles and the peak fuel plate centerline temperature between the low flux and high flux samples are 3.32 x 10{sup 27} f/m{sup 3} and 90 C, and 6.31 x 10{sup 27} f/m{sup 3} and 120 C, respectively. The results of this work showed the presence of a bubble superlattice within the U-7Mo grains that accommodated fission gases (e.g., Xe). The presence of this structure helps the U-7Mo exhibit a stable swelling behavior during irradiation. The Si-rich interaction layers that develop around the fuel particles at the U-7Mo/matrix interface during fuel plate fabrication and irradiation become amorphous during irradiation. The change in bubble distribution at the high fission density suggests that the bubble superlattice is stable as the U-7Mo matrix remains crystalline. It appears that there is a threshold Si content in the fuel particle above which the U-Mo turns to amorphous under irradiation. The threshold Si content is approximately 8 at.% and 4 at.% for lowmore » flux and high flux condition, respectively.« less
Barriers and best practices for material management in the healthcare sector

The primary focus of the healthcare sector has been to provide patients with the best quality of care. Recently, the escalating cost of supplies and the severe competition among healthcare provider...
Spatial Variation of Plant‐Available Phosphorus in Pastures with Contrasting Management

Land application of animal manure, at rates based on soil nutrient content or crop requirements, optimizes nutrient recycling and minimizes offsite environmental impacts. The objective of this research was to characterize the spatial variation of plant-available P and other soil properties (C, N, and pH) in two pastures having contrasting grazing and poultry litter management. One site (Cellar Ridge) was a lightly grazed 6-ha tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pasture with limited poultry litter application and the other (Haxton) was a 9.5-ha tall fescue pasture with annual poultry litter application and intensive rotational grazing for 10 yr. Soil cores (0-0.15 m) were collected on a 30-m grid at both sites and analyzed for plant-available P (Mehlich-3 extract), total C and N (combustion method), and pH (1:1 water/0.01 M CaCl 2 ). Cellar Ridge had significantly less Mehlich-3 extractable P (32 vs. 341 mg kg -1 ), more acid pH (5.25 vs. 5.73), and significantly greater C (23.3 vs. 16.3 g C kg -1 ) and N (1.76 vs. 1.54 g N kg -1 ). Spatial dependence over approximately 1 to 3 lag distances with a consistent orientation (across ridge) was observed for all parameters at Cellar Ridge. No spatial dependence was observed for Mehlich-3 P, C, N, or pH at the Haxton site (all parameters exhibiting nugget effect). Ten years of poultry litter application likely eliminated spatial structure for these properties. Further research is needed to determine whether additional costs associated with grid sampling and variable rate litter application can be justified.
Effects of timed eyestalk ablation on molting in larvae of the snapping shrimp, Alpheus heterochaelis Say

Summary Eyestalk ablation at particular times during the second (2 and 20 h post-hatching) and third (10 h intervals up to 70 h) larval instars was studied with regard to effects on instar duration and mortality in the snapping shrimp, Alpheus heterochaelis. Ecdyses and deaths were monitored at hourly intervals during instar 2, every 2 h for instar 3, and at 4-h intervals for subsequent instars up to instar 6. Eyestalk ablation near the end of an instar resulted in increased mortality relative to larvae ablated earlier in the molting cycle. The second instar was lengthened by eyestalk removal during instar 2, while subsequent instars were accelerated significantly (up to 29%). Ablations during instar 3 did not significantly alter duration of that instar, but the next instar was significantly shorter (up to 18%). It was concluded that the Y-organ requires a full instar before becoming effective in shortening instar duration after release stom control by “molt-inhibiting hormone” (MIH) produced by the X-org...
Multimodal Semiosis in Science Read-Alouds: Extending beyond Text Delivery.

This study examines elementary teachers reading children’s science books aloud to students in the US. Our findings show that science read-aloud semiosis (meaning-making) extends beyond text delivery. In addition to making a written text orally available to students, teachers also deploy different types of gestures (pointing and iconic gesticulation) and pictorial representations (narrative and conceptual) as they scaffold students’ understandings. Further, teachers are shown to engage in two distinct forms of meaning-making: multimodal description and multimodal explanation. A conceptual framework is proposed that elementary science educators can use to systematically incorporate multimodality into aloud reading practices.
Update on current and future novel therapies for dry age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in developed countries. There are currently no cures, but there are promising potential therapies that target the underlying disease mechanisms of dry ARMD. Stem cells, ciliary neurotrophic factor, rheopheresis, ozonated autohemotherapy and prostaglandins show promise in stabilizing or improving visual acuity. Age-Related Eye Disease Study vitamins may reduce progression to severe ARMD. Adjuvant therapy like low vision rehabilitation and implantable miniature telescopes may help patients adjust to the sequelae of their disease, and herbal supplementation with saffron, zinc monocysteine and phototrop may be helpful. Therapies that are currently in clinical trials include brimonidine, doxycycline, anti-amyloid antibodies (GSK933776 and RN6G), RPE65 inhibitor (ACU-4429), complement inhibitors (ARC1905, FCFD4514S), hydroxychloroquine, intravitreal fluocinolone acetate and vasodilators like sildenafil, moxaverine and MC-1101...
Rules for Aging

In qualitative interviews and focus groups, older informants articulated "rules" for aging, Lhat is, principles for responding to age-related changes. Analysis of these rules distin- guished three basic types: those advocating resistance to aging; those urging acceptance and accommodation; and those encouraging con- lrol of one's thinkine: to sidesteo oainful reactions lo chanee and loss. Each type implies different assumptions about old age.
Accuracy of Anticardiolipin Antibodies in Identifying a History of Thrombosis Among Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

objective To measure the accuracy of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) in identifying a history of thrombosis among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or the primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). patients and methods Patients with SLE or PAPS who attended our rheumatology clinic between April 1992 and March 1994 were included in a retrospective analysis of the relationship between thrombotic events and aCL. All aCL measurements were performed in the same laboratory by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, blinded as to the presence or absence of thrombosis. The diagnostic accuracy of IgG, IgM, and IgA aCL was quantified by means of the receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (ROC AUC) for each isotype. Stratum-specific likelihood ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were calculated to define strata with optimal discriminant power. results: During the period of study, aCL was measured in 117 patients (113 SLE and 4 PAPS), of whom 24 (20.5%) had experienced thrombotic events. The ROC AUC ± the standard error for IgG aCL was 0.81 ± 0.05, signifying an 81% accuracy in the identification of a history of thrombosis. In contrast, the accuracy of the IgM and IgA aCL was significantly lower (0.60 ± 0.08 and 0.54 ± 0.07, respectively, P conclusions The IgG aCL determinations perform well in the identification of thrombosis in SLE or PAPS, while the IgM and IgA aCL have poor diagnostic accuracy. These findings may have implications for management of these patients.
Action of epinephrine on glucose uptake and glucose-6-phosphate in the dog heart in situ

Abstract These experiments were designed to test the hypotheses: (1) that epinephrine inhibits glucose utilization as a result of the inhibition of phosphorylation by glucose-6-phosphate (glucose-6-P); (2) that the increase in the concentration of this ester is correlated with the positive inotropic action of the amine. The investigations were conducted on anesthetized dogs to which saline or epinephrine (1 or 10 μg/kg min −1 ) were infused for 15 min. The chloride and glucose space of the right ventricle and its content of glucose-6-P and the activity of glycogen phosphorylase were measured. In the control series 6% of the total phosphorylase was in the a form, the glucose space was 14% and glucose-6-P was 0.4 mmolc/kg. After 1 μg epinephrine, left ventricular-contractile force increased 76% and the enzyme was 19% in the a form, but the glucose space and glucose-6-P remained unchanged. After 10 μg of the drug, contractile force did not increase further and phosphorylase was 93% active, the glucose space rose to 67% and glucose-6-P concentration was 0.74 mmole/kg. Similar results were found in fed and fasted dogs and after parcreatectomy. These results indicate that inhibition of glucose utilization was associated with glucose-6-P accumulation, but this was not correlated with augmentation of contractile force of the heart.
Determination of the Dynamic Electrophoretic Mobility of a Spherical Colloidal Particle through a Novel Numerical Solution of the Electrokinetic Equations

The standard equations developed to describe the electrophoretic motion of a charged particle immersed in an electrolyte subjected to an oscillating electric field are solved numerically with a new technique suitable for stiff systems. The focus of this work is to use this solution to determine the dynamic particle mobility, one of several quantities that can be extracted from these equations. This solution is valid from low frequencies to indefinitely high frequencies and has no restriction on zeta potential, double-layer thickness, or electrolyte composition. The solution has been used to calculate the dynamic electrophoretic mobility of a particle for a wide range of double-layer thicknesses and zeta potentials. The solution agrees with analytic approximations obtained previously by other authors under the conditions of a thin double layer and low zeta potential. The results are also consistent with calculations valid at frequencies where the ion diffusion length extends a significant distance beyond the double layer as obtained by another numerical technique.
Effect of colchicine time and concentration on mitosis of bone marrow cells from irradiated and unirradiated mice in vivo.

Abstract Mitotic activity in the bone marrow cells of irradiated and unirradiated mice was determined for various periods of exposure to colchicine (from 45 min to 3 h) and for concentrations of 1.2 and 4 μg/g body weight (b.w.). The mitotic activity was calculated from the relative number of metaphase cells in a chromosome preparation. Although maximum mitotic activity was observed following colchicine for 3 h at 4 μg/g, 3 h exposure at 2 μg/g resulted in sufficiently large numbers of well spread chromosomes for cytogenetic analysis. It was observed that in the irradiated mice, there were fewer bone marrow cells; however, these cells had a higher mitotic activity than the cells from the unirradiated mice.
Heterogeneity of Basal Keratinocytes: Nonrandom Distribution of Thymidine-Labeled Basal Cells in Confluent Cultures Is Not a Technical Artifact

Basal surface autoradiography of [3H]dThd-labeled, confluent, keratinocyte cultures reveals that proliferating cells have a nonrandom, patterned distribution. Unlabeled cells, likewise, appear nonrandomly in clusters. We show here that failure to detect DNA synthesis in some basal cells in culture is not an artifact caused either by physical separation of the labeled nuclei from the radiographic emulsion or by a diffusion barrier that would prevent [3H]dThd from reaching basal cells.
Architectural and histochemical analysis of the semitendinousus muscle in mice, rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits

The architectural and histochemical properties of the anatomically distinct compartments of the semitendinosus muscle (ST) of mice, rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits show that the ST is composed of two separate compartments aligned in series--a distal compartment (STd) and a proximal one (STp). The STp is further subdivided into a ventral head (STpv) and a dorsal head (STpd). The muscle fibers were arranged in parallel to the line of muscle pull within each compartment. The STd has the longest and the STpv the shortest fibers in all species. The physiological cross-sectional area and the estimated tetanic tension was greatest in the STd. Based on the staining pattern for myosin ATPase (alkaline preincubation) and an oxidative indicator (NADH or SDH), the STpv has the highest percentage of slow-oxidative (SO) or SO plus fast-oxidative-glycolytic (FOG) fibers of any portion of the muscle. The differences in fiber-type distributions and architectural designs of the separate compartments suggest a specialization of function of the individual compartments.
Proteins designed for challenging environments and catalysis in organic solvents

Abstract The discovery and application of protein design guidelines continue to enhance successfully the stability of proteins in hars environments such as elevated temperatures, extreme alkaline pH, or non-aqueous solvents. Highlights for the past year begin with changing charged residues at the protein surface-solvent interface to those with hydrophobic side chains to enhance the stability of enzymes in organic solvents such as dimethylformamide. Other variations on the protein surface theme include the discovery that surface decorations of carbohydrates, either synthetically conjugated, or naturally glycosylated during mammalian cell expression, can significantly affect protein stability. Protein design guidelines are beginning to be applied to the stabilization of antibodies and immunoglobulin fragments in an attempt to exploit the full potential of these proteins (catalytic or otherwise) in challenging environments. Finally, a calculated energy function for a mutated protein, consisting mostly of van der Waals' packing interactions, was found to directly correlate with the midpoint of thermal unfolding transitions for mutated versions of the protein, allowing some prediction of the effects of mutations on protein stability.
Scaling metabolic rate with body mass and inverse body temperature: a test of the Arrhenius fractal supply model

Summary 1How body mass and body temperature influence metabolic rate has been of interest for decades. Today that interest can be seen in the form of debates over the proper scaling coefficients, and the mechanistic underpinnings of allometric models for metabolic rate in relation to body mass and body temperature. We tested explicit assumptions built into what we term the Arrhenius fractal supply (AFS) model of these relationships. This model, and its assumptions, is foundational to the controversial Metabolic Theory of Ecology. 2In addition to predicting that the scaling exponent for body mass is 3/4, the AFS model originally predicted that metabolic responses to body temperature, measured as activation energies, should fall between 0·2 and 1·2 eV. More recently, the latter range was narrowed to 0·6 and 0·7 eV. 3To test the AFS's predictions, we used multiple regression of ln(metabolic rate) as a function of ln(body mass) and 1/(body temperature) to fit the best scaling exponent for body mass to nine data sets of many diverse species. 4For the majority of the data sets, in addition to not supporting a scaling exponent of 3/4, the analyses indicated that effects of body temperature sometimes fell outside the range of 0·6–0·7 eV, indicating that the predictions of the AFS model do not hold universally. 5Effects of body temperature, however, did fall within the range of 0·2–1·2 eV. To aid interpretation of these results, we transformed activation energies into Q10s. At ecologically realistic temperatures, the values of Q10 that approximate activation energies of 0·2–1·2 eV ranged from c. 1·4 to 6·1 (where 6·1 is clearly unreasonably high). Hence, any model that predicts activation energies between 0·2 and 1·2 eV does not appear to be an informative scaling model at the organismal level. 6The AFS model is foundational for the Metabolic Theory of Ecology. While we commend the attempt to incorporate scaling of metabolism into ecological theory, and the research it has inspired, we caution against using untested, and likely incorrect, assumptions as a foundation to a general theory of ecology. We recommend that scientists allow the data to determine the best model for incorporating energetics into ecological theory.
Modeling of Laser Coagulation of Tissue With MRI Temperature Monitoring

Light energy from a laser source that is delivered into body tissue via a fiber-optic probe with minimal invasiveness has been used to ablate solid tumors. This thermal coagulation process can be guided and monitored accurately by continuous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) since the laser energy delivery system does not interfere with MRI. This report deals with mathematical modeling and analysis of laser coagulation of tissue. This model is intended for "real-time" analysis of magnetic resonance images obtained during the coagulation process to guide clinical treatment. A mathematical model is developed to simulate the thermal response of tissue to a laser light heating source. For fast simulation, an approximate solution of the thermal model is used to predict the dynamics of temperature distribution and tissue damage induced by a laser energy line source. The validity of these simulations is tested by comparison with MRI-based temperature data acquired from in vivo experiments in rabbits. The model-simulated temperature distribution and predicted lesion dynamics correspond closely with MRI-based data. These results demonstrate the potential for using this combination of fast modeling and MRI technologies during laser heating of tissue for online prediction of tumor lesion size during laser heating.
The role of resale entry in promoting local exchange competition

Abstract This article examines the role of resale entry in achieving competition in local exchange telecommunications markets in the US under the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Contrary to the claims of many incumbent local exchange providers, we argue that: (1) resale entry produces direct competitive benefits; (2) resale entry will not reduce incumbent incentives to invest in the local network; and (3) resale entry will not reduce more beneficial facilities-based entry. We also examine avoided cost estimation issues in determining wholesale discounts.
Panel on integrating security concepts into existing computer courses

Recently, computer security has come to the forefront of public awareness. With the onslaught of worms such as Code Red, national (U.S.) concern has increased about cyber terrorism and the information infrastructure. One educational response has been the emergence of a number of computer security degree programs - at the undergraduate level, e.g., East Stroudsburg State University of PA, and at the graduate level, e.g., the Heinz School at Carnegie-Mellon University.The panel members were all participants in the Cyber security faculty development Workshop[1] held at Indiana University of PA in August, 2001. Among the goals of the workshop was the development of courses that would teach the theory and application of security, including the use of specially designed (quarantined) "attack" and "defend" computer labs. Additional goals include development of modules related to security for CS core courses, and an interdisciplinary minor for Computer Science and Criminology majors.It was the consensus of the panel participants that many institutions would be unable to implement special degree programs or tracks, and, in a significant number of cases, might be unable to immediately implement even one specialized course. Yet, all the participants also believed strongly that security-related content in our computer courses can, and should, be improved. Even if no security-based courses are added, major and non-major courses in computer science, CIS, etc., can do a better job of raising awareness of threats, vulnerabilities, and risks.Each panel member will address a specific course or sub discipline and describe how security was infused or added to the current curriculum. The intent is to foster discussion regarding appropriateness and pedagogy while relating individual experiences, successes and failures. Audience and panel members will be encouraged to discuss the relative merits of this approach.