cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Colectomy for patients with super obesity: current practice and surgical morbidity in the United States.

Abstract Background While minimally invasive surgery contributed to improved outcomes in bariatric surgery, less is known about current utilization trends and outcomes related to surgical technique for colorectal resections in super-obese patients (body mass index ≥50 kg/m2). Objective The aim of this study was to compare surgical modalities and short-term outcomes of patients with super obesity who underwent elective colectomy in the United States. Setting A retrospective review was performed of patients with super obesity who underwent elective colectomy between 2012 to 2018 using the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program data pool. Methods Patients were categorized into an open, laparoscopic, or robotic group. Baseline characteristics and perioperative outcomes including 30-day complications and length of stay were compared between the 3 groups. Furthermore, utilization trends of surgical modalities were assessed. Results Of 1199 patients, 338 (28.2%) had open, 735 (61.3%) laparoscopic, and 126 (10.5%) robotic colectomy during the study period, primarily for colon cancer (50.8%). Patients in the open group tended to have more baseline co-morbidities. Laparoscopic approach showed better risk-adjusted outcomes compared with open for postoperative ileus (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: .6, 95% confidence interval [CI; .383–.965]), overall medical complications (aOR: .4, 95%CI [.3–.8]), and length of stay (OR .6, 95% CI [.394–.968]). Trend utilization showed increasing utilization of the robotic platform over the study period, which was associated with less unplanned conversion to open (aOR .417, 95%CI [.199–.872]). Conclusion Laparoscopic colectomy provides advantageous outcomes over open surgery for colectomy in super-obese patients. The robotic platform has been increasingly used over time, and potential benefits need to be further studied.
Biofuel logistics network scheme design with combined data envelopment analysis approach

Abstract This paper studies the biofuel logistics network scheme (BLNS) design problem dealing with several decision variables, such as the biofuel facility location, allocation, delivering harvested biomass stocks to biofuel producing facilities, and distributing biofuels to the stations. Since building the biofuel facilities requires a huge amount of investments, designing an efficient BLNS will be essential to attract potential investors. We formulate the design problem as a multi-objective programming (MOP) model. Solving the MOP model would yield various network schemes based upon the weight given to each objective/goal. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) method could be applied to evaluate the efficiency of each BLNS generated by solving the MOP model. Several approaches based on the traditional DEA method emerge to overcome a critical weakness regarding discriminating power. This paper combines three well-known DEA methods to make the most use of each method’s strengths and to evaluate and identify the more efficient network schemes. Through a case study for South Carolina, we observe that the proposed procedure performs well in terms of designing efficient and robust BLNSs. The proposed procedure would enable the decision-makers to have more choices for BLNSs to consider before finally selecting the best scheme regarding efficiency, practicality, and feasibility.
Current Data and Trends on Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement and Retrieval

Vena cava filters are important yet controversial devices utilized to prevent pulmonary embolism (PE). Originally designed to replace more invasive inferior vena cava (IVC) interruption techniques (such as plication or clip placement), the first filters still required surgical cutdown on the jugular or femoral vein for insertion [1]. Over time, percutaneous placement became the norm, with a simultaneous increase in the overall number of filter insertions and dissemination of the procedure to interventional radiology and interventional cardiology. In the late 1990s, nonpermanent vena cava filters became commercially available, and filter utilization increased even more rapidly [2]. With more widespread use came increased awareness of complications associated with these devices [3]. The current vena cava filter environment is one of doubt and uncertainty, which is reflected in the decreasing utilization [4, 5]. Nevertheless, vena cava filters remain clinically important tools for protecting patients at risk of PE who cannot be managed with conventional strategies (anticoagulation) [6].
On Transversal Solidarity: An Approach to Migration and Multi-Scalar Solidarities:

This article develops a conceptualisation of transversal solidarity in relation to migration and migrants. It reflects different ways of practicing, organising and articulating solidarity. We proce...
Progression of Metastasis through Lymphatic System

Lymph nodes are the most common sites of metastasis in cancer patients. Nodal disease status provides great prognostic power, but how lymph node metastases should be treated is under debate. Thus, it is important to understand the mechanisms by which lymph node metastases progress and how they can be targeted to provide therapeutic benefits. In this review, we focus on delineating the process of cancer cell migration to and through lymphatic vessels, survival in draining lymph nodes and further spread to other distant organs. In addition, emerging molecular targets and potential strategies to inhibit lymph node metastasis are discussed.
The effects of acute and chronic exposure of ammonia on juvenile burbot (Lota lota) growth and survival

Abstract Burbot, Lota lota are a candidate species for commercial aquaculture because of their palatability and optimal growth at temperatures similar to those used in freshwater trout aquaculture. However, data on burbot environmental tolerances and requirements are sparse, especially with reference to water quality parameters relevant to aquaculture, such as un-ionized ammonia (UIA) concentration. We used a two-phased approach to evaluate the effects of un-ionized ammonia on the growth and survival of burbot. First, we measured the acute toxicity of ammonia to juvenile burbot (mean SL: 144 ± 6 mm; mean wet weight: 27.3 ± 3.4 g) and calculated a 96-h LC50 of 0.58 mg·L−1 UIA. We then measured the 60-d growth, food consumption rate, and performance of burbot (mean initial SL: 190 ± 6.9 mm; mean initial weight: 67.0 ± 4.5 g) reared in 0.00, 0.03, 0.06, 0.12, or 0.19 mg·L−1 UIA using a 20-tank flow-through system under optimal temperature (14.7 °C) and dissolved oxygen (DO >80% saturation) conditions. Elevated ammonia concentration significantly reduced daily food consumption and subsequent growth. Fish exposed to 0.03 and 0.06 mg·L−1 UIA showed temporal acclimation to UIA, achieving food consumption and growth rates on par with control fish after 30 days of exposure. The estimated effective UIA concentrations for 10 and 20% reductions in growth (EC10 and EC20) based on our data are: EC10 = 0.03 ± 0.006 mg·L−1 and EC20 = 0.050 ± 0.004 mg·L−1. We recommend rearing burbot under conditions that keep UIA levels ≤0.03 mg·L−1 based on our finding that above 0.03 mg·L−1 cause measurable reductions in growth rate.
Stream Salamanders are Relatively Tolerant of Salty Streams.

The application of road salt as a deicing agent is common, but investigations of potential negative effects of salt runoff on stream salamanders have been limited. Additionally, modern stormwater management practices should influence the delivery of salt ions to streams. We used data loggers in streams draining watersheds with and without stormwater management ponds and acute 96-h LC50 tests to investigate exposure of, and road salt toxicity among, two widespread salamanders in the Eastern USA, northern dusky salamanders (Desmognathus fuscus) and northern two-lined salamanders (Eurycea bislineata). In streams below stormwater ponds, base levels of conductivity were elevated throughout the year and elevated Cl− levels led to more frequent acute and chronic exceedances of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ambient water quality criteria for Cl− when compared to streams draining watersheds with no stormwater management ponds. However, five of the six streams studied had exceedance frequencies suggesting Cl− associated with road salt application represented a persistent threat to aquatic life. Larval stream salamanders were relatively tolerant of salt, not exhibiting any lethal effects over a 96-h period until chloride levels exceeded 5000 mg/L for both species, and concentrations in streams rarely exceeded these levels and only for very short periods of time. Our results suggest road salts are not having acute lethal effects on salamanders in the streams we studied, but exceedance of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ambient water quality standards for Cl− suggest the potential for sublethal and indirect effects of Cl− on salamander populations that require further study.
Current Practices in the Preclinical Safety Assessment of Peptides

There has been an explosion of peptides in drug development and there are currently dozens of marketed therapeutic peptides. The road map for developing peptides is by association to existing biopharmaceutical and/or new chemical entity guidance documents rather than a guidance that is specific for peptides. This article reviews the preclinical development experience across therapeutic peptides, highlighting what has gone before and some considerations for the future. Keywords: therapeutic peptides; biopharmaceuticals; species selection; genetic toxicology; toxicity testing; carcinogenicity testing
Incorporation of non-linear dynamics to the observability formulation of shipboard power systems

Perturbations in shipboard power systems can make controllers useless if improper control strategies are used. Incorporating the nonlinear dynamics of the shipboard power system in the control methodology is the solution to this problem. Before this solution is designed, the concept of nonlinear observability should be first investigated. The proposed observability formulation accounts for non-linearities and provides a more comprehensive observability determination. A simplified model of a shipboard power system that incorporates machines and power electronics converter dynamics is developed and the observability formulation as applied to this system model investigated. A measure of observability is presented through different case studies were loading condition effects are analyzed. This ultimately will lead to the development of system observers for dynamic state estimation and nonlinear control techniques, giving the power system designer/operator the ability to acquire knowledge related to the state of the system during transitions from the desired operating points.
A Review of Current Techniques for Measuring Muffler Transmission Loss

The most common approach for measuring the transmission loss of a muffler is to determine the incident power by decomposition theory and the transmitted power by the plane wave approximation assuming an anechoic termination. Unfortunately, it is difficult to construct a fully anechoic termination. Thus, two alternative measurement approaches are considered, which do not require an anechoic termination: the two load method and the two-source method. Both methods are demonstrated on two muffler types: (1) a simple expansion chamber and (2) a double expansion chamber with an internal connecting tube. For both cases, the measured transmission losses were compared to those obtained from the boundary element method. The measured transmission losses compared well for both cases demonstrating that transmission losses can be determined reliably without an anechoic termination. It should be noted that the two-load method is the easier to employ for measuring transmission loss. However, the two-source method can be used to measure both transmission loss and the four-pole parameters of a muffler.
Discovery of Novel CXCR2 Inhibitors Using Ligand-Based Pharmacophore Models.

The chemokine receptor CXCR2 is expressed on various immune cells and is essential for neutrophil recruitment and angiogenesis at sites of acute and chronic inflammation caused by tissue injury or infection. CXCR2 and its ligand, CXCL8, are implicated in a number of inflammation-mediated diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and cancer. Though the development of CXCR2-specific small-molecule inhibitors as anti-inflammatory agents has been pursued by pharmaceutical companies within the past decade, there are currently no clinically approved CXCR2 inhibitors. A pharmacophore model based on previously reported CXCR2 antagonists was developed to screen a database of commercially available compounds. Small-molecule compounds identified from the pharmacophore screening were selected for in vitro screening in a cell-based CXCR2-mediated β-arrestin-2 recruitment assay and further characterized in several cell-based assays and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung inflammation st...
Malignant melanoma and dermatofibrosarcoma in a 60-year-old patient with lifelong acrodermatitis enteropathica

The life course of acrodermatitis enteropathica is recorded in a 62-year-old white man. Initially saved in infancy by breast-feeding and good medical care, later in his twenties he responded well to diiodohydroxyquinoline (Diodoquin) therapy, his only residua being dermatitis, hoarseness, and short stature. Subsequently untreated, this patient years later developed not only a dermatofibrosarcoma but also a large atnelanotic malignant melanoma. Both were successfully excised. Subsequently, oral zinc therapy initiated for the first time cleared his acrodermatitis, which had been present for 60 years. It is suggested that this patient's malignancies developed as a result of an immune deficiency state typically found in acrodermatitis enteropathica. On this basis, acrodermatitis enteropathica may be viewed as having a malignant potential over the long term. The zinc-dependent nature of the immune deficit, however, suggests that lifelong daily zinc supplementation is an appropriate prophylactic measure.
What intact social cognition and social behavior reveal about cognition in the moderate stage of Alzheimer’s disease: A case study

This case study describes a person in the moderate stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and examines her intact social cognition and healthy, appropriate social behavior as reflected by the existence ...
Nanofer zvi: morphology, particle characteristics, kinetics, and applications

Nanofer zerovalent iron (nanofer ZVI) is a new and innovative nanomaterial capable of removing organic as well as inorganic contaminants in water. It displays a decrease in agglomeration, when it is coated with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). TEOS imparts an increase in reactivity and stability to nanofer ZVI. Characteristics of nanofer ZVI were determined using scanning electron microscope/electron dispersive spectroscope (SEM/EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Nanoparticle size varied from 20 to 100 nm and its surface area was in the range of 25–30 m2g−1. The present study examined its structure before and after kinetic experiments. Kinetic experiments indicated that adsorption of heavy metals [Pb (II), Cd (II), and Cu (II)] and TCE is very rapid during the initial step which is followed by a much slower second step. Removal rates of 99.7% for Pb (II), 99.2% for Cd (II), 99.9% for Cu (II), and 99.9% for TCE were achieved in less than 180 minutes. Lagergren models (LM), liquid film diffusion model (LFDM), and interparticle diffusion model (IDM) were used to understand the removal mechanism associated with nanofer ZVI. In this study, interactions of nanofer ZVI with individual metals as well as TCE are examined.
XYLEM ANATOMY AND HYDRAULIC CONDUCTANCE OF PSILOTUM NUDUM

Psilotum nudum (L.) Beauv. (Psilotopsida) has a simple, vascularized sporophyte with a dichotomously branching aerial axis. The number and lumen diameters of tracheids in the actinostele decrease in each subsequent branch, leading to an approximate halving of the measured hydraulic conductance (Kh) from segment to segment. To understand how the anatomy ofP. nudum affects Kh, a biophysical model based on the Hagen-Poiseuille relation was developed that incorporated lumen diameter, tracheid taper, pit cavities, and pit membranes. Using a technique previously developed for ferns, pit membrane resistance was determined by measuring water flow before and after dissolving the pit membranes with cellulase. Measured Kh was in good agreement with Kh calculated with the model after excluding thick-walled late metaxylem tracheids that dye studies showed were nonconducting. Model simulations showed that the approximately 40% overlap observed for tracheids of P. nudum was in the range leading to greatest conductance and that Kh decreased to half for 20% overlap. The model also showed that the pit membranes account for an increasing percentage of total resistance to water flow as the lumen diameter increases. Thus, the removal of such primary wall material and the evolutionary origin of vessels would have substantially increased Kh.
The applicability of the first-order grinding law to particles having a distribution of strengths

Abstract The applicability of the first-order law of grinding kinetics is widely observed. On the other hand, tests of compressive strengths of particles of a given size show a distribution of strengths, so that some particles appear weak and others strong, which would not lead to first-order kinetics of grinding. It is proposed that this paradox is partially resolved by considering the distribution of compressive strengths to arise from orientation of particles, so that a given particle would have an apparent distribution of strenghts if it could be fractured in different orientations.
Oxidative Phosphorylation in the Failing Dog Heart-Lung Preparation

Utilizing dog heart-lung preparations mitochondria were obtained from control preparations and from hearts failing spontaneously, or as a result of pressure-loading or venous inflow-loading. The mitochondria were compared with respect to their oxidative phosphorylating capacity. The data on the P:O ratios indicate that there is an uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria from hearts in spontaneous failure, and in the mitochondria of hearts failing as a result of pressure-loading. In the case of failure due to venous inflow-loading of the heart the mitochondrial P:O ratios are within the control range. The data definitely support the conclusion that in certain types of failure in the dog heart-lung preparation the energy generating or liberating mechanisms may be impaired. This conclusion is contrary to that in the literature based on measurements of high-energy compounds and oxygen consumption, namely, that energy liberation, including transfer of oxidative energy in the form useful for contraction, is not impaired in the failing heart.
The Polarguide-A Constant Resistance Waveguide Filter

A new type of waveguide filter is described which utilizes circular waveguide components. Through the use of circular polarization a particularly compact structure has been achieved. The features of the filter include constant input resistance, high power handling ability, and high efficiency. Although intended primarily for use as a vestigial sideband filter in the uhf television frequency range, the new filter should find application throughout the frequency range in which waveguide techniques are applicable.
Charge rearrangement in the GexPb1−x/Ge(111) interface

Abstract We have investigated a non-metal–metal transition, novel in-plane ordering and STM imaging contrast, all of which evolve as a function of Pb concentration in the two-dimensional solid solution GexPb1−x/Ge(111). The cause of these is a local charge rearrangement between the surface Pb and Ge adatoms.
An Efficient Synthesis of Dihydrojasmone Utilizing a Cationic [(Propargyl)dicobalt Hexacarbonyl] Complex

Abstract As part of a program to explore the organic chemistry of cobalt-stabilized propargyl cations 1, we recently found that these complexes readily and selectively α-alkylate ketones and ketone derivatives including TMS enol ethers and enol acetates2 (eq. 1).
Timing and controls on late Quaternary landscape development along the eastern Sierra El Mayor range front in northern Baja California, Mexico

Abstract The Sierra El Mayor–Sierra Cucapa mountain range in northern Baja separates the Colorado River delta from the Laguna Salada Basin and is important in terms of understanding the structural transition from the northern Gulf Extensional Province to the San Andreas system. One of the principal Quaternary landscape features of the eastern Sierra El Mayor–Sierra Cucapa is a prominent surface that slopes ~ 1–2° eastward towards the Colorado River Delta. Along the eastern side of the Sierra El Mayor and facing the Colorado River delta, but not along other piedmont mountain fronts that face the delta, this surface is terminated by a series of stepped terrace surfaces. The terrace surfaces are cut into fluvial–deltaic deposits from the Colorado River delta system and are capped by ~ 1 m thick gravels. Optically stimulated luminescence ages from interbedded coarse sands in the capping gravels of the upper surface and two of the inset terraces range from ~ 17 to 31 ka (average 24 ± 3 ka) but lack a systematic age trend from upper to lower surface. The underlying fluvial–deltaic deposits have older optically stimulated luminescence ages of 31 to 39 ka and suggest Colorado River delta deposition during the relatively stable interstadial of the Middle Wisconsinan substage (Marine Isotope Stage 3) when sea level was ca − 60 to − 80 m. Samples from depth-profiles in the capping gravels and from the top of the upper surface have a mean 10 Be terrestrial cosmogenic nuclide age of 59 ± 5 ka. When corrected for inheritance, an average age of ~ 21 ka is computed for exposure of the capping gravels on the upper surface and inset terraces, which is in the range of the optically stimulated luminescence burial ages. Both the upper surface and inset terraces formed 17–30 ka at a transition time from dry to relatively wet climate when increased aggradation caused alluvial fan development on the upper surface. Regionally, these surfaces correlate with the Q2c–Q3a age deposits of the southwestern North America alluvial fan and terrace deposits. Sea level was also falling rapidly at this time, which may have caused the Colorado River to become entrenched near the range front thus allowing rapid response and down-cutting to form the inset terraces on the east side of the Sierra El Mayor facing the delta. Assuming the 34 ka delta deposits graded to a base level that was − 60 to − 80 m during Marine Isotope Stage 3, the computed surface uplift rate for the eastern side of the Sierra El Mayor is ~ 2.1–2.7 mm/yr. This uplift may be accommodated on a fault or fault system that is a southward extension of the Mexicali spreading and seismic zone that is buried beneath the Colorado River delta east of the Sierra El Mayor. The uplift rates from this study are consistent with geologic and geodetic data for the Sierra El Mayor and Sierra Cucapa, and account for much of the missing extensional strain across the area.
Alterations in a voltage-gated K+ current during the differentiation of ML-1 human myeloblastic leukemia cells

A voltage-gated K+ current has been identified in ML1 human myeloid leukemia cells, with the use of the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. ML-1 cells proliferate in tissue culture as immature myeloblasts and can be induced to differentiate to nonproliferative monocyte/macrophages. In the myeloblastic cells, activation of the K+ current occurs upon depolarization of the membrane potential to above −40 mV; inactivation of this current is also voltage dependent and follows a simple exponential time course with a time constant (Ti) of 900 msec at 0 mV. The current is inhibited by 4-aminopyridine (IC50 of 80 μm at 0 mV), but is much less sensitive to tetraethylammonium of Ba2+. In cells exposed to the differentiation-inducer 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), dramatic alterations in the K+ current occur: upon exposure to 10 nm TPA during whole-cell recording, the amplitude of the voltage-activated current initially increases (within 4 min) and later decreases (at approximately 30–50 min). Upon addition of 0.5 nm TPA to cells in tissue culture, the current shows suppressed activation and accelerated inactivation in the early stages of differentiation (10-fold decrease in Ti at approximately 7 hr) and is completely suppressed in the later stages (3 days). Thus, this voltage-gated K+ current is suppressed early in the induction of differentiation and associated loss of proliferation in myeloid ML-1 cells exposed to TPA; this parallels the fact that channels of a. similar type are activated upon the stimulation of proliferation in lymphoid cells exposed to mitogens. Taken together, these findings suggest a role for voltagegated K+ channels in cell proliferation, and for their suppression in the loss of proliferation that accompanies differentiation.
A lean-server foundation for collaborative design

Abstract The design framework research community utilizes the Internet as a facilitator for collaborative activities. The ability to support coordination and high-level communication is imperative in any collaboratory. A novel approach using lean-servers is an alternative method for providing a functional server-side computing model that meets the implementation requirements for a collaboratory. The server brokers Internet requests directly within a design application by providing a gateway to the application's programming interface using a HyperText Transfer Protocol compliant layer. This allows requests to be managed directly by the application rather than requiring auxiliary services. Macros are used to provide content and context sensitive responses. A prototype system, called the Systems Programming Architecture for Collaborative Engineering, is described as one scenario for implementing the lean-server technology. Usability of the approach is demonstrated through a Design of Experiments example that is representative of modern design methods. This example also demonstrates coordination because it executes asynchronously with multi-user intervention at any time during the process. In hindsight, the lean-server approach is an enabling technology for collaborative design and focuses future research on methods for communicating reasoning, experience, and other information during design decision-making processes.
Ethical Judgments of College Students: An Empirical Analysis.

Abstract A considerable body of empirical research exists regarding factors that affect ethical decisionmaking in professional situations. This article examines the ethical judgments of college students as affected by four individual factors—gender, academic major, age, and religiosity. Findings from the study suggest that gender, academic major, and one dimension of religiosity—religious commitment—significantly influence the ethical judgments of college students. On the other hand, age and a second dimension of religiosity—religious affiliation—produced insignificant results.
Biological markers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis : help or hindrance?

Biological markers play an important role in the development of the understanding of a disease, its diagnosis and treatment. This is particularly true of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at this time. We need better biological markers for the diagnosis, for improved understanding of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms, and for assistance in new drug development. This review of currently available biological and surrogate markers in ALS discusses novel approaches to the use of such markers, and new drugs for the treatment of ALS.
Reduced delay sensitivity to process induced variability in current sensing interconnects

The effect of process induced variability in long global on-chip interconnects caused by critical dimension control and intrinsic fluctuation of transistor threshold voltage is analysed for current and voltage mode signalling. Projections in scaled CMOS technologies show that current sensing interconnects exhibit smaller mean delay and sensitivity to parameter fluctuations. The standard deviation of delay exhibits an increasing dependency on process variations at the low and high extremes of receiver to driver circuit resistance ratios. An experimental on-chip bus demonstrates the reduced delay variability in current sensing schemes.
Characterization of the effects of process parameters on macrosegregation in a high-pressure die-cast Magnesium alloy

Abstract Normal and inverse solute segregations have been reported to occur in several Al-alloys as well as in some other nonferrous alloys. Nonetheless, these phenomena have not been studied in high-pressure die-cast (HPDC) Mg-alloys. This contribution reports an experimental metallographic evidence of inverse surface macrosegregation in a HPDC AM60 Mg-alloy and the effects of process parameters on the extent of inverse segregation. It is observed that low gate velocity, low liquid metal temperature before casting, and application of intensification pressure lead to high extent of inverse macrosegregation at the cast surfaces of HPDC AM60 Mg-alloy. Unfortunately, this combination of HPDC process parameters is also often utilized to achieve low micro-porosity levels. Consequently, in such cases, the beneficial effects of low levels of micro-porosity on the fracture related mechanical properties might be nullified by the adverse effects of enhanced macrosegregation.
Treatment of Histoplasmosis and Blastomycosis

Prior to the development of ketoconazole, the treatment of systemic histoplasmosis and blastomycosis was limited to AMB. The convenience of oral dosing, combined with avoidance of the significant toxicities associated with AMB, make ketoconazole an attractive alternative for the treatment of selected forms of histoplasmosis and blastomycosis. Although high-dose (800 mg/day) ketoconazole is generally more effective than low-dose (400 mg/day), therapy should be initiated at the lower dose due to significantly more adverse effects at higher doses; the daily dose should be increased in patients with progressive disease. Caution should be exercised when ketoconazole is used to treat patients with GU tract disease and in patients with naturally occurring or pharmacologically induced achlorhydria. Thus, AMB remains the drug of choice for difficult to treat cases of histoplasmosis and blastomycosis; however, recent studies have established ketoconazole as the drug of choice in immunocompetent patients with non-life-threatening, non-meningeal H capsulatum and B dermatitidis disease.
Accommodative esotropia following surgical correction of congenital esotropia, frequency and characteristics.

This study was undertaken to look at the development of accommodative esotropia, which occurs following the surgical correction of congenital esotropia. A restrospective review was done on all congenital esotropia patients operated on by one of the authors from 1974 through mid-1984. The criterion of a minimum of 3 years postsurgical follow-up was met by 101 patients. Of these patients, 52 developed accommodative esotropia, 25 within 3 months of surgery and 27 from 3 to 60 months after surgery. The average preoperative refractive error in the early group was +3.90 and +1.95 in the later group. The average time to develop accommodative esotropia in this group with later onset was 27 months following the initial surgery. It would appear that if the preoperative refractive error is +3.00 or more, and especially if the preoperative deviation responds to spectacles with a reduction of 15 prism diopters or more, then it is very likely that glasses will be required for accommodative esotropia very soon following surgery. There appear to be no clues as to which patients will need glasses later for accommodative esotropia.
Mid/far-infrared photodetection based on resonant frequency up-conversion in coupled quantum wells

We propose and theoretically investigate mid/far-infrared photodetectors based on frequency up-conversion in a near-resonant cascade of interband and intersubband transitions in high optical nonlinearity asymmetric quantum well structures. Such structures can yield high detectivity and responsivity in the bandwidth of the order of 30% of a central frequency in the mid-infrared range. Resonant up-conversion detectors can be designed for both collinear and perpendicular pump and signal beams. They can be integrated with semiconductor pump lasers to yield compact devices. We present specific device designs based on GaAs/AlGaAs and InGaAs/AlInAs heterostructures and calculate their expected figures of merit.
1/f noise and RTS in advanced bipolar technologies

The low-frequency noise observed on advanced junction bipolar transistors consist of 1/f noise as well as Random telegraph Signals (RTS). In relatively small emitter-base junction areas, RTS is seen in the spectra which can be differentiated from the typical generation-recombination (gr) noise through time domain analysis. For most cases, the 1/f noise can be modeled primarily with a current noise source in the base SIB. There are cases, however, the noise originates primarily in the collector side due to SIC, which has been neglected in modeling equations. We have designed two different measurement and analysis systems where the effect of SIC and SIB can be differentiated and separately modeled through correlated noise measurements that are performed at the collector and base or collector and emitter. Cross-power spectral density, as well as coherence is used to extract different noise components. Variable temperature low-frequency noise measurements to extract the different components of SIB revealed that the diffusion noise due to mobility fluctuation, fluctuations in the recombination at the surface of the emitter/base depletion region, and fluctuations in the interfacial oxide tunneling barrier height, (and thus the tunneling probability of the carrier) are the components that need to be modeled. The results of the experimental data as well as modeling equations and techniques will be discussed.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Equity fund size and growth: Implications for performance and selection

Abstract Should individuals choose the largest or smallest equity funds for investment? This study explores the relationship of equity fund size to performance. Historical returns of large funds are found to be superior to their smaller peers. Yesterday's best performing fund's tend to become today's largest funds as individuals invest heavily in response to the communications about the fund's past success. But the findings suggest that, once large, equity funds do not outperform their peers. Especially for funds in aggressive growth objectives, the advantages of being small appear to outweigh the disadvantages. For individual investors wtih aggressive growth objectives, a strategy of investing in smaller funds may thus be wealth maximizing.
Differences in the fine specificity of anti-Ro (SS-A) in relation to the presence of other precipitating autoantibodies.

In sera from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus or Sjogren's syndrome, we determined the fraction of antibody that remained reactive with human Ro (SS-A) after absorption with bovine spleen extract, and the reactivity with the 60-kd and 54-kd red blood cell Ro (SS-A) bands by Western blot. Of the 3 groups of sera studied, those containing anti–Ro (SS-A) alone had the highest degree of reactivity with human Ro (SS-A) after absorption with bovine spleen extract, followed, in descending order, by sera containing anti–Ro (SS-A) and anti–La (SS-B), and sera containing anti–Ro (SS-A) and anti–nuclear RNP. The groups of sera could be distinguished on this basis. Sera with anti–Ro (SS-A) and anti–nuclear RNP could also be distinguished from the other 2 types of sera by their uniform and preferential reactivity with the 60-kd red blood cell Ro (SS-A), by Western blot analysis. These findings indicate that there are both qualitative and quantitative differences, associated with the presence of other autoantibodies, in the fine specificity of anti–Ro (SS-A) sera.
Effect of opioid blockade on insulin and growth hormone (GH) secretion in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: the heterogeneity of impaired GH secretion is related to both obesity and hyperinsulinism

Abstract Objective: To investigate the involvement of opioid tone, obesity, and hyperinsulinemia in GH secretion in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design: Controlled clinical study. Setting: Catholic University of Sacred Heart School of Medicine in Rome, Italy. Patient(s): Twenty-two patients with PCOS and 14 healthy, normally ovulating volunteers, matched for age and body mass index. Intervention(s): Patients underwent a GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) test and an oral glucose tolerance test before and after 4–5 weeks of treatment with 50 mg/d of naltrexone. Main Outcome Measure(s): Serum concentrations of GH, insulin, glucose, steroids, and gonadotropins, as well as the GH area under the curve (AUC-GH) and the insulin area under the curve (AUC-I), were measured before and after naltrexone treatment. Result(s): In patients with PCOS, the administration of naltrexone increased the GH response to the GHRH test without interfering with the insulin response to the oral glucose tolerance test. However, the GH response to the GHRH test was improved significantly only in lean patients with PCOS, whereas obese patients with PCOS did not show any improvement in GH secretion. In obese control subjects, the treatment reduced plasma basal insulin concentrations and increased the AUC-GH, whereas in lean control subjects, the treatment reduced the GHRH-induced response. In normoinsulinemic patients with PCOS, the GH response to the GHRH test increased significantly after treatment, whereas the AUC-I was not affected. In hyperinsulinemic patients with PCOS, treatment with naltrexone significantly reduced the AUC-I, whereas the AUC-GH increased only in lean hyperinsulinemic patients with PCOS. Conclusion(s): Naltrexone treatment improves GHRH-induced GH secretion in patients with PCOS. However, this GH response is heterogeneously represented in relation to both obesity and hyperinsulinism.
Tangent bundle for human action recognition

Common human actions are instantly recognizable by people and increasingly machines need to understand this language if they are to engage smoothly with people. Here we introduce a new method for automated human action recognition. The proposed method represents videos as a tangent bundle on a Grassmann manifold. Videos are expressed as third order tensors and factorized to a set of tangent spaces. Tangent vectors are then computed between elements on a Grassmann manifold and exploited for action classification. In particular, logarithmic mapping is applied to map a point from the manifold to tangent vectors centered at a given element. The canonical metric is used to induce the intrinsic distance for a set of tangent spaces. Empirical results show that our method is effective on both uniform and non-uniform backgrounds for action classification. We achieve recognition rates of 91% on the Cambridge gesture dataset, 88% on the UCF sport dataset, and 97% on the KTH human action dataset. Additionally, our method does not require prior training.
Salt Taste Sensitivity and Stimulus Volume: Effect of Stimulus Residuals

Sodium chloride (NaCl) stimulus residuals were seen to be greater after a large-volume NaCl rinse than after a small-volume rinse. Predicted changes in sensitivity dependent on adapting concentrations determined by residual levels were confirmed by signal detection R-index measures of sensitivity. R-index values were seen to be independent of the volume of the test water and NaCl stimuli used in their determination.
Absolute rate measurements for the reaction of the OH radical with diacetylene over the temperature range of 296–688K

Abstract Absolute rate constants have been measured for the reaction of the OH radical with diacetylene over the temperature range of 296–688K using a flash photolysis-resonance fluorescence technique. The best fit to the data is given by the following Arrhenius expression: k=1.11×10 −11 exp{ 410±300(cal/mole) RT } cm 3 molecule −1 s −1 . Thermodynamic calculations based on group additivity methods are used to infer probable product channels for the reaction. Since the reaction between the OH radical and diacetylene is thought to be a critical pathway for hydrocarbon oxidation in fuel rich flames, the present results have implications for models of such flames. These implications are discussed.
Airplane Landing Performance on Contaminated Runways in Adverse Conditions

effect of wind, the speed-dependent rolling-friction coefficient, and other important parameters. We have presented landing scenarios using average pilot techniques on ice-covered runways for which the Federal Aviation Administration wet-runway safety factor is not sufficient for a safe landing. This mathematical model and the simulation program can be used as an operational landing distance calculator. A sensitivity analysis was performed to estimate the significance of various parameters with the absolute maximum landing distance uncertainty estimated to be 100 ft.
The effects of time-out on the fluency of stutterers in group therapy

Abstract The effects of time-out from positive reinforcement were investigated in a group therapy situation. Subjects were 10 male stutterers. The specific contingency tested was permitting each member of the group to talk until he stuttered. With this contingency in effect, the amount of time that elapsed as well as the number of words uttered before the first stuttered word increased significantly. Clinical implications and an evaluation of the technique for general application are discussed.
A preliminary study to evaluate postural improvement in subjects with scoliosis: active therapeutic movement version 2 device and home exercises using the Mulligan's mobilization-with-movement concept.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine if the use of Active Therapeutic Movement Version 2 (ATM2) device and home exercises using the Mulligan’s mobilization-with-movement concept by subjects with scoliosis would result in postural improvement and to document any changes in trunk range of motion and quality of life. Methods Forty-three subjects between the ages of 12 to 75 years were recruited for the study. Each subject underwent a low back evaluation along with specific measurements for their scoliosis. Subjects participated in a 4-week intervention, 2 times a week consisting of treatment utilizing the ATM2 and were also given a home exercise program to mimic the specific movement(s) they performed on the ATM2. Photographic assessment of posture was taken before and after the intervention. Subjects were surveyed during the initial assessment and again at the final intervention using the following outcome measures: Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire, Short-Form Health Survey-36, Oswestry Disability Index, and a Numeric Pain Rating Scale. Results Results were significant for most of the variables measured. Subjects gained improvement in spinal ranges of motion for all directions except for flexion and extension (most subjects had reference range of flexion and extension at the beginning of the study). Most subjects had improved pelvic alignment after the intervention. Before and after photographs demonstrated improved posture. Subjective measurements of pain, disability, and quality of life improved. Conclusions Results of this preliminary study showed improvement for selected variables. The use of ATM2 and home exercises using the Mulligan’s mobilization-with-movement concept by subjects with scoliosis appears to be a potentially viable conservative treatment alternative to address various findings associated with scoliosis, including posture improvement.
Subliminals in the 2000 Presidential Election: Policy Implications of Applied Neuroscience

The controversial RATS commercial was aired during the 2000 presidential election campaign. It used a subliminal stimulus to attack Al Gore's Medicare plan and influence viewers in favor of George W. Bush's plan. This paper summarizes what scientific research has learned about subliminal stimuli, analyzes the RATS ad in depth to determine the intent of its producers, estimates the number of viewers exposed to the ad, and discusses its effect on them. The possible influence of subliminals on political discourse is discussed with reference to advances in technology and the proliferation of TV and Internet use.
High rate of malignant transformation in hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses

Background Controversy exists over the rate of malignant transformation of actinic keratoses (AKs) and, therefore, which treatment is indicated. Furthermore, it is not known to what degree each of the separate clinical subtypes of AKs become malignant. Objective Our purpose was to examine clinically diagnosed hyperkeratotic AKs and classify them histologically. Methods Fifty papular hyperkeratotic AKs on the dorsum of the hand, wrist, and arm, less than 1 cm in diameter, were identified in 43 patients. Histologic evaluation was conducted in a blinded fashion by two observers. Results Histologic examination showed 18 lesions (36%) to be invasive squamous cell carcinoma, whereas another seven (14%) were squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Proliferative AKs were the next most common lesion identified (26%), followed by hypertrophic (10%) and lichenoid (4%) AKs. Basal cell carcinomas (4%) and other benign lesions (6%) comprised the rest of the biopsy specimens. Conclusion It is possible to predict clinically, with greater certainty than previously realized, which AKs have a greater tendency toward malignant change. Clinical hyperkeratotic AKs less than 1 cm in diameter on the dorsum of the hand, wrist, or forearms of white patients have a malignancy rate of 50%. Lesions with this clinical description should be removed by shave biopsy, then by 35% trichloroacetic acid, then liquid nitrogen to a width and depth of 3 mm.
Sound localization of frequency‐modulated sinusoids by Old World monkeys

Directional hearing acuity, as measured by the minimum audible angle (MAA), was determined in four Old World monkeys, Macaca radiata. The acoustic stimuli were linear changes in frequency (sweeps) for different frequency ranges and sweep rates. The sweeps ranged between 0.5 and 1.3 kHz, at two durations, 100 and 200 ms. In upsweeps which began at 0.5 kHz and were 200 ms in duration, MAA decreased as sweep rate and frequency range increased. These thresholds were compared to MAAs of sweeps which traversed the same range of frequencies but at a different rate, to MAAs of sweeps with identical rates but over different frequency ranges, and to the MAAs of downsweeps. These comparisons indicated that range, and not sweep rate, exerts the greatest effect on the MAA. Interaural phase differences derived from the upper limits of the frequency range are discussed as potential FM localization cues.