cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interface Control of Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation Performance with Ni1–xFexOy Modified Hematite Photoanodes

In this work, Ni1–xFexOy coated hematite electrodes are investigated as a model system of different semiconductor/catalyst interfaces. We found that the photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of the electrodes strongly depends on both the way the hematite electrode is prepared and the composition of the catalyst. Two extreme behaviors are observed for electrodeposited hematite electrodes coated with different compositions of catalyst. In the case of Fe-rich catalyst (Ni0.25Fe0.75Oy), the performance is substantially enhanced compared to the bare electrode; however, the Ni-rich (Ni0.75Fe0.25Oy) catalyst inhibits the PEC performance. A combination of photoelectrochemical, intensity modulated photocurrent spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements collectively reveal the critical role that the interface states of the semiconductor and catalyst plays in controlling the key interfacial charge transfer and recombination reactions. The photogenerated holes are efficiently collected and...
Factors associated with patient no-show rates in an academic otolaryngology practice.

Objectives/Hypothesis Factors affecting access to healthcare is an expanding area of research. This study seeks to identify factors associated with no-show rates in an academic otolaryngology practice to improve clinical efficiency and patient access to care. Study Design Retrospective review. Methods A retrospective review of scheduled clinical appointments from February 1, 2015 to January 30, 2016 at a single academic otolaryngology department was performed. Statistical analysis was completed to examine the association of no-show rates with the following: otolaryngology subspecialty, clinic location (e.g., main campus vs. satellite), patient demographic factors, attending seniority, temporal factors, insurance types, rurality, and visit type. Results There was an overall no-show rate of 20% for 22,759 scheduled clinic visits. Satellite clinics had the highest no-show rates at 25% (P < .001). New patient visits had the highest no-show rate at 24% (P < .001). Among subspecialties, facial plastic surgery had the lowest no-show rate (12.6%), whereas Pediatrics had the highest (23%) (P < .001). No significant association between gender and no-show rates was observed (P = .29), but patients over 60 years old had the lowest no-show rate (12.7%, P < .0001). Patients with Medicaid (28%), Medicare (15.3%), and commercial insurance (12.9%) had significantly different overall no-show rates (P < .0001). Conclusions Increased clinic no-show rates are associated with satellite clinics, new patient visits, younger age, and insurance type. No-show rates varied among subspecialties. Further investigation is warranted to assess barriers to appointment compliance and to develop interventions to improve access to care. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 2017
Fabrication and Performance of MHD Electrodes

A brief presentation of the requirements for electrode module materials will perhaps afford some insight as to the reasons for selecting the development program for materials preparation and fabrication techniques described herein. A simple module may consist of three parts: a water cooled, metallic base which serves as the current collector and connector; an electronic conductor electrode which transfers electricity to the plasma; an electrical insulator to separate modules. The selection of electrode material is most critical and difficult. This material must have good electronic conductivity and should be a good electron emitter. It must be chemically resistant to and/or compatible with potassium seed, coal slag, and the insulator material at temperatures above about 1900°K; as well as being compatible with the base material at temperatures up to perhaps 1300°K. In addition to having a melting point above 2300°K, the material should exhibit good thermal shock resistance. Although the ideal electrode material has yet to be proven as part of a useful electrode module, progress has been made toward this goal.
The advantages, challenges, and critical aspects to achieving robust seals within hazardous location electrical installations

Explosion-proof conduit fittings, cable glands and connectors require a seal to limit the passage of flames and flammable gases and vapors. This paper will review currently available sealing technologies within the harsh and hazardous electrical market. Advantages and challenges of the various sealing technologies will be identified based on specific chemistries and environmental effects on sealing compound reliability. Additionally, critical installation best practices necessary to reduce risk and achieve robust and safe seals will be discussed.
Tumor number and comparative micro-array analysis of tumor and adjacent non-tumor intestinal tissue after iron supplementation in ApcMin/+ mice

To determine the effect of iron supplementation on tumor number and on gene expression of tumor and non-tumor intestinal tissue in an animal model of human familial adenomatous polyposis, 36 male C...
Infinicare framework for integrated understanding of health-related activities in clinical and daily-living contexts.

AbstractClinical and consumer health informatics interventions promise to transform health care, yielding higher quality, more accessible care at a lower cost. However, the potential of these interventions cannot be achieved if they are developed and rolled out in a disconnected way: clinic-based systems typically do not interface with home-based systems that capture patient-generated health-related data. The fragmentation between these interventions severely limits the benefits of all interventions; given that health care is a continuum between clinical and daily-living settings. We introduce the Infinicare framework, which posits that clinical health-related activities “shape” daily-living-based health-related activities and, conversely, that daily-living-based health-related activities “inform” activities in clinics. Non-alignment of activities across these diverse contexts yields systemic gaps. Workflow studies that capture health-related activities and characterise gaps between clinical and daily-liv...
Design Optimization of Hybrid FRP/RC Bridge

The hybrid bridge consists of a Reinforced Concrete (RC) slab supported by U-shaped Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) girders. Previous studies on similar hybrid bridges constructed in the United States and Europe seem to substantiate these hybrid designs for lightweight, high strength, and durable highway bridge construction. In the current study, computational and optimization analyses were carried out to investigate six composite material systems consisting of E-glass and carbon fibers. Optimization constraints are determined by stress, deflection and manufacturing requirements. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and optimization software were utilized, and a framework was developed to run the complete analyses in an automated fashion. Prior to that, FEA validation of previous studies on similar U-shaped FRP girders that were constructed in Poland and Texas is presented. A finer optimization analysis is performed for the case of the Texas hybrid bridge. The optimization outcome of the hybrid FRP/RC bridge shows the appropriate composite material selection and cross-section geometry that satisfies all the applicable Limit States (LS) and, at the same time, results in the lightest design. Critical limit states show that shear stress criteria determine the optimum design for bridge spans less than 15.24 m and deflection criteria controls for longer spans. Increased side wall thickness can reduce maximum observed shear stresses, but leads to a high weight penalty. A taller cross-section and a thicker girder base can efficiently lower the observed deflections and normal stresses. Finally, substantial weight savings can be achieved by the optimization framework if base and side-wall thickness are treated as independent variables.
Extensive clinical experience: Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis recovery after adrenalectomy for corticotropin-independent cortisol excess.

OBJECTIVE To identify predictors of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis recovery interval and severity of glucocorticoid withdrawal symptoms (GWS) in patients undergoing adrenalectomy for corticotropin-independent cortisol excess. DESIGN This is a retrospective study of patients with mild autonomous cortisol excess (MACE), moderate and severe Cushing syndrome (CS) who developed adrenal insufficiency after unilateral adrenalectomy between 1998 and 2017. RESULTS Adrenalectomy was performed in 81 patients (79% women, median age 52 years [IQR 42-62]). HPA axis recovery occurred at a median of 4.3 months (IQR 1.6-11.4) after adrenalectomy (severe CS vs moderate CS vs MACE: median 11.4 vs 2.8 vs 2.1 months, P 10 μg/dL or >276 nmol/L (9.7 vs 1.3 months if cortisol ≤10 μg/dL or ≤276 nmol/L, P 1 year (11.4 vs 2.8 months if ≤1 year); moon facies (11.4 vs 2.2 months if no rounding of the face); and myopathy (13.1 vs 2.7 months if no myopathy, P < 0.05). Patients with severe CS had a higher incidence of GWS compared to patients with MACE (66.7% vs 40.0%, P < 0.05) with a median of 1 and 0 events/patient, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The HPA axis recovery interval was the longest for patients with severe CS. Surprisingly, patients with moderate CS recovered their HPA axis as quickly as those with MACE. Glucocorticoid withdrawal symptoms were observed in all groups, with more events in patients with severe CS. This study emphasizes the need to counsel patients on expectations for HPA axis recovery and address intervention for GWS based on individual preoperative parameters.
An Autonomic Network: Synchrony Between Slow Rhythms of Pulse and Brain Resting State Is Associated with Personality and Emotions

The sympathetic system’s role in modulating vasculature and its influence on emotions and personality led us to test the hypothesis that interactions between brain resting-state networks (RSNs) and pulse amplitude (indexing sympathetic activity) would be associated with emotions and personality. In 203 participants, we characterized RSN spatiotemporal characteristics, and phase–amplitude associations of RSN fluctuations with pulse and respiratory recordings. We found that RSNs are spatially reproducible within participants and were temporally associated with low frequencies (LFs < 0.1 Hz) in physiological signals. LF fluctuations in pulse amplitude were not related to cardiac electrical activity and preceded LF fluctuations in RSNs, while LF respiratory amplitude fluctuations followed LF fluctuations in RSNs. LF phase dispersion (PD) (lack of synchrony) between RSNs and pulse (PDpulse) (not respiratory) correlated with the common variability in measures of personality and emotions, with more synchrony being associated with more positive temperamental characteristics. Voxel-level PDpulse mapping revealed an “autonomic brain network,” including sensory cortices and dorsal attention stream, with significant interactions with peripheral signals. Here, we uncover associations between pulse signal amplitude (presumably of sympathetic origin) and brain resting state, suggesting that interactions between central and autonomic nervous systems are important for characterizing personality and emotions.
Modelling of Transient Tests to Determine Thermal Properties of Fiberglass Insulations

Transient test methods for fibrous insulations require a sophisticated analysis technique because of the more rapid response of radiation heat transfer as compared to conduction, and because of the interaction between the two modes. A high-order combined-mode heat transfer model has been developed for this purpose, and benchmarked against experimental results. The model is capable of reproducing the experimental data to within 1.2°C throughout the duration of a transient test when the sample specific heat is corrected for moisture content. The model has yielded several interesting insights into transient testing techniques.
Doesn't everyone grieve in the abortion choice?

PIP: Brown, Elkins, and Larson's article on prolonged grieving after induced abortion properly alerts physicians to the need for vigilance to emotional difficulties following this procedure. However, the authors appear to have an implicit political agenda in publishing their material, and the absence of scientific method in the presentation of this material is reckless given the political volatility surrounding the abortion issue. The article is based on an analysis of 61 letters solicited by the pastor of a Protestant church in Florida known for its anti-abortion activities; only negative experiences were sought. Cited are long-term negative sequelae such as anger, loss, depression, masking of emotion, regret, shame, guilt, fantasizing, and suicidal ideation. It is impossible for the authors to make psychiatric diagnoses on the basis of letters alone. More importantly, these same reactions can be found, to an even greater extent, among women suffering forced continuation of an unwanted pregnancy and subsequent nonvoluntary parenthood. Feelings of guilt and loss can be expected both among women who choose to abort and those who opt to continue with an unplanned pregnancy. The very fact that abortion is legal in the US allows physicians to help those women who do experience emotional difficulties after the procedure.
Selective Adsorption of Aspartate Facilitated by Calcium on Brucite [Mg(OH)2]

Dissolved ions present in an aqueous environment may significantly improve biomolecule attachment at mineral surfaces through the formation of cooperative surface complexes. To test whether this phenomenon results in the selective adsorption of an organic species, we conducted batch adsorption experiments with an equimolar mixture of the amino acids aspartate, glycine, lysine, leucine, and phenylalanine onto powdered brucite [Mg(OH)2] at pH 10.2. We performed the batch experiments in triplicate both without and with 4.1 mM CaCl2. In experiments without CaCl2, we observed that up to 0.7 μmol m–2 of aspartate and about 0.4 μmol m–2 each of the remaining four amino acids adsorbed onto brucite. When we added CaCl2, we found that up to 1.6 μmol m–2 of aspartate selectively adsorbed onto the brucite surface relative to between 0.2 and 0.3 μmol m–2 of the other amino acids. We measured the brucite particle surface charge to be slightly positive without added CaCl2, but the surface charge becomes significantly mo...
Combined Embryonal Cell Carcinoma and Granulomatous Orchitis of the Testis

Testicular embryonal cell carcinoma is a germ cell tumor that can be poorly differentiated and quite aggressive. It is a fairly common carcinoma of the testis but is uncommonly found coexisting wit...
The Korteweg-de Vries equation on an interval

The initial-boundary value problem (IBVP) for the Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation on an interval is studied by extending a novel approach recently developed for the well-posedness of the KdV on the half-line, which is based on the solution formula produced via Fokas’ unified transform method for the associated forced linear IBVP. Replacing in this formula the forcing by the nonlinearity and using data in Sobolev spaces suggested by the space-time regularity of the Cauchy problem of the linear KdV gives an iteration map for the IBVP which is shown to be a contraction in an appropriately chosen solution space. The proof relies on key linear estimates and a bilinear estimate similar to the one used for the KdV Cauchy problem by Kenig, Ponce, and Vega.
Information on Bedtimes and Wake Times Improves the Relation Between Self-Reported and Objective Assessments of Sleep in Adults.

Study Objectives:To investigate the correlation between self-reported and objective measures of total sleep time (TST) in adults and examine whether sex, race/ethnicity, and weight status influence...
Ureteroscopic Management of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma

Upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) represents a difficult to treat oncologic entity. Although relatively uncommon, traditional treatment of UTUC with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) with lymph node dissection is associated with potential significant morbidity and mortality. With advancements in technology over the last few decades “nephron- sparing” approaches have been developed. While this used to be only reserved for “imperative” indications, nephron-sparing approaches are now becoming more feasible for the everyday urologist. In this chapter, ureteroscopic management of UTUC is discussed in detail including diagnosis of UTUC, ureteroscopic management strategies, and surveillance. The authors also discuss their diagnostic algorithm and tips and tricks for successful ureteroscopic management of UTUC.
Introduction: Summary of the Argument

This book is not about racism per se, but about the concept of racism, so I begin by explaining the difference between the phenomenon and the concept of racism. Racism is an empirical reality, a lived experience. The concept of racism is the nature of this reality, the nature of this lived experience. This distinction requires elaboration.
The Tristetraprolin Family of RNA-Binding Proteins in Cancer: Progress and Future Prospects.

Post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression plays a key role in cellular proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. Increasing evidence suggests dysregulated post-transcriptional gene expression as an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of cancer. The tristetraprolin family of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which include Zinc Finger Protein 36 (ZFP36; commonly referred to as tristetraprolin (TTP)), Zinc Finger Protein 36 like 1 (ZFP36L1), and Zinc Finger Protein 36 like 2 (ZFP36L2), play key roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Mechanistically, these proteins function by binding to the AU-rich elements within the 3′-untranslated regions of their target mRNAs and, in turn, increasing mRNA turnover. The TTP family RBPs are emerging as key regulators of multiple biological processes relevant to cancer and are aberrantly expressed in numerous human cancers. The TTP family RBPs have tumor-suppressive properties and are also associated with cancer prognosis, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. Herein, we summarize the various hallmark molecular traits of cancers that are reported to be regulated by the TTP family RBPs. We emphasize the role of the TTP family RBPs in the regulation of trait-associated mRNA targets in relevant cancer types/cell lines. Finally, we highlight the potential of the TTP family RBPs as prognostic indicators and discuss the possibility of targeting these TTP family RBPs for therapeutic benefits.
Abstract 4394: Utilizing pharmacokinetics and toxicity data in the translational drug interaction knowledgebase to bridge the phase I cancer drug combination studies

Multi-target drug combinations have become essential in overcoming de novo and acquired resistance to cancer therapy. However, pharmacokinetics (PK) and toxicity profiles are the largest valley of death for the combinatory drug therapy development. Although there is rich knowledge in the public domain data sources, it is not yet well integrated or readily available to investigators planning novel clinical trial designs. Incorporating the multitude of datasets available for each drug and drug target would allow for more rationale selection of dose levels and schedules in cancer clinical trial development. In this study, we conducted a feasibility study to demonstrate the utility of an integrated drug interaction knowledge base in the designing cancer drug combination phase 1 clinical trials. Methods: Phase 1 or 1b cancer trials reported in ClincalTrials.gov during 1/1/2018-12/31/2018 were used for target trial selection. The multiple interventions in the study were limited to small molecule cancer drugs and monoclonal antibodies. All the identified drugs/chemicals were normalized via DrugBank. Then, our TDIK(Translational Drug Interaction Knowledgebase) was used to assess whether it has sufficient data to infer drug combination PK or toxicity. The TDIK database has integrated PK and toxicity data from more than 1 million DDI evidence in DrugBank, 69,579 articles indexed in the PubMed, drug labels and our Cancer Drug Fraction of Metabolism Database. Results: 423 cancer drug combination phase I/Ib clinical trials were selected as target trials, in which 496 drug combinations were tested, and they include 487 distinct individual drugs. Among those 487 individual drugs, 221 have PK or toxicity data in TDIK. Among 496 drug combinations, 325 combinations have at least PK drug interaction or drug combination toxicity data. Conclusions: TDIK contains a significant amount of PK and toxicity data on cancer drugs and their combinations. It is a powerful tool in designing drug combination phase I trials. Citation Format: Lei Wang, Shijun Zhang, Lai Wei, Dwight H. Owen, Lang Li. Utilizing pharmacokinetics and toxicity data in the translational drug interaction knowledgebase to bridge the phase I cancer drug combination studies [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 4394.
Characterization of school of dentistry prerequisite courses and recommendations for admission

PURPOSE There is minimal research characterizing admission prerequisites courses across schools of dentistry. The purpose of this study was to typify didactic and laboratory course requirements and compare requirements based on institution demographics. METHODS In July 2019, the researchers evaluated websites from 76 North American dental schools to collect information on required and recommended courses, credit hour requirements, and institution demographics. Sub-group analyses evaluated differences in course and credit hour differences based on institution funding, degree program, location, and Carnegie Classification. RESULTS The most common required courses were general chemistry (97.4%), physics (93.4%), organic chemistry (92.1%), general biology (90.8%), communication (86.8%), and biochemistry (80.3%). The most common required laboratory courses were general chemistry (63.2%), organic chemistry (59.2%), general biology (55.3%), and physics (51.3%). Several institutions included unique course recommendations such as histology (40.7%), psychology (30.3%), art (18.4%), business (18.4%), sociology (15.8%), and embryology (14.5%). There were few differences based on institution classifications; however, differences were observed most often between institutions within and outside the United States. The study also identified 65.8% (n = 50) of schools have letter of recommendation requirements and 46.1% (n = 35) of schools require or recommend shadowing experiences with programs requesting a median of 60 hours (range 20-300 hours). CONCLUSIONS The study offers a contemporary characterization of prerequisite requirements and recommendations. In addition, the study raises critical questions about whether these standards reflect expectations for entering learners, if these requirements truly relate to learner success, and if these requirements prepare learners to be future-ready graduates.
Developing farmer typologies to inform conservation outreach in agricultural landscapes

Abstract Understanding factors that motivate conservation behavior among farmers is crucial to addressing societal, soil, water, and wildlife conservation goals. Farmers employ soil conservation practices to maintain agricultural productivity while minimizing impacts to water and wildlife in the long-term. The majority of conservation programs are voluntary in nature and some farmers are more willing and/or able to implement conservation practices than others. To inform the development of more effective conservation outreach and incentive programs, we created a farmer typology using data from three waves (2015, 2016, 2018) of a longitudinal survey of 358 farmers from Iowa, a highly productive agricultural state in the U.S. Midwest. Using multivariate analysis (Principal Component Analysis, and Cluster Analysis), we employed 26 summated scale variables measuring largely unobservable and latent constructs related to conservation, including awareness, attitudes, beliefs, and perceived motivations and barriers to practice adoption. Through this analysis, we identified four types of farmers-Conservationist, Deliberative, Productivist, and Traditionalist—based on the salient characteristics of each group. “Conservationist” farmers scored highest on measures of stewardship motivations and identity. “Deliberative” farmers appeared to be favorably disposed toward conservation, but also seem to consider agronomic and economic impediments more than other groups. “Productivist” farmers had the highest scores on profit motivation and emphasis on input use. “Traditionalist” farmers reported being heavily influenced by family members and scored highest on social and regulatory influence on conservation motivations. Detailed understanding of between-groups differences on key conservation-related factors can contribute to developing targeted messages for specific subgroups of a given population, potentially resulting in higher adoption of voluntary conservation programs in Iowa and beyond.
Time is of the Essence!: Retired Independent Directors’ Contributions to Board Effectiveness

Institutional investors, policy makers, and researchers have advocated for greater director independence in hopes of improving corporate governance and discouraging unethical behaviors such as corporate frauds, accounting irregularities, and other organizational failures. However, increasing demands upon directors and sitting CEOs, as well as constraints on the number of boards on which they can serve, has resulted in a dramatic increase in the use of retired independent directors (“RIDs”). Compared to other directors with full-time job demands, we argue that RIDs (who lack full-time primary employment) have lesser time constraints and greater attentional capacities with which to discharge their responsibilities, thereby improving overall board “bandwidth.” Using S&P 1500 firms for the period of 2000–2012, we find that enhanced board bandwidth associated with an increased proportion of RIDs on the board relates to greater resource provisioning through reducing costs of capital, improved monitoring through reducing disclosure-related weaknesses, and better accounting and market performance. We thereby advance traditional board bandwidth research by contemplating the available time that independent directors would have by virtue of being retired (i.e., whether a director lacks a “day job”) and relating this to board effectiveness.
CUPiD RT : Detecting Improper GPU Usage in Real-Time Applications

Computer-vision applications typically rely on graphics processing units (GPUs) to accelerate computations. However, prior work has shown that care must be taken when using GPUs in real-time systems subject to strict timing constraints; without such care, GPU use can easily lead to unexpected delays not only on the GPU device but also on the host CPU. In this paper, a software library is presented that can detect the improper use of GPUs for safety-critical computer-vision applications. This library was used to analyze several GPU-using sample applications available as part of OpenCV, a popular computer-vision library, revealing the presence of issues in all ten applications considered. Additionally, a case study is presented, detailing the response-time improvements to one of the applications when such issues are corrected.
Solvation Forces versus the Nano-colloidal Structural Forces under the Film Confinement: Layer to In-Layer Structural Transition in Wetting Solids Confinement and In-Layer Structural in Wetting Solids

Abstract This work reviews the origins, similarities, measurement techniques, and differences of the solvation and nano-colloidal oscillatory structural forces in confined domains. With an increasing confinement, the particles’ structural transition changes from 2D random layering to 2D crystalline packing, as observed experimentally and revealed by the radial distribution function (RDF). The 2D in-layer structural energy transition was estimated to be 1.8 kT using the Boltzmann normal distribution law. The transition from a 2D random structure away from the vertex to 2D cubic/hexagonal domains near the vortex was discontinuous and was confirmed by the particle density profile computed by an integral equation. The critical roles of the solvation and nano-colloidal oscillatory structural forces on the wetting and spreading of the simple liquids and complex liquids on solid surfaces are elucidated.
Building a Latino Civil Rights Movement: Puerto Ricans, African Americans, and the Pursuit of Racial Justice in New York City

At the beginning of this densely packed and thought-provoking monograph, Sonia Song-Ha Lee makes clear her book’s bold stance: “Puerto Ricans, I argue, were as vital as African Americans in shaping...
Treatment of relapsed multiple myeloma

Despite the therapeutic advances made in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) and the subsequent progress in outcome, this disease remains incurable for the large majority of patients. Cure in myeloma is considered as a relapse-free interval of at least 10–15 years and can be achieved either by full disease eradication (‘operational cure’), or alternatively by a return to a premalignant indolent monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or smoldering myeloma status.
Simulation of the Scale-Dependent Effects of Landscape Boundaries on Species Persistence and Dispersal

The relationships between life history characteristics and broad-scale patterns of species abundance were investigated with a model that simulates the dispersal of populations through heterogeneous landscapes. Movement was simulated on randomly generated landscapes and on forested landscapes digitized from aerial photographs. Simulation results indicated that population abundances will change suddenly near the critical threshold in habitat connectivity as predicted from percolation theory. The existence of critical thresholds is important for many management and conservation issues, but these thresholds suggest that data are required at spatial scales that are specific to the dispersal characteristics of the simulated population.
A double epidemic: crystal methamphetamine drug use in relation to HIV transmission among gay men.

Abstract Emerging research on methamphetamine use among gay men suggests that growth in the use of this drug could present serious problems for HIV/AIDS prevention within the gay community. This article summarizes current studies on the extent, role, and context of methamphetamine use among gay men and its relationship to high risk sexual behaviors related to HIV transmission. Methamphetamine is often used by gay men to initiate, enhance, and prolong sexual encounters. Use of the drug is, therefore, associated with particular environments where sexual contact among gay men is promoted, such as sex clubs and large “circuit” parties. Research with gay and bisexual men indicates that methamphetamine use is strongly associated with risky sexual behaviors that may transmit HIV. This relationship, coupled with emerging evidence that methamphetamine use is on the rise among gay men, suggests that the drug could exacerbate the HIV/AIDS epidemic among this community. The article offers recommendations for further ...
An evaluation of alternative designs for a grid information service

Computational grids consisting of large and diverse sets of distributed resources have recently been adopted by organizations such as NASA and the NSF. One key component of a computational grid is an information service that provides information about resources, services and applications to users and their tools. This information is required to use a computational grid and therefore should be available in a timely and reliable manner. In this work, we describe the Globus information service, describe how this service is used, analyze its current performance, and perform trace-driven simulations to evaluate alternative implementations of this grid information service. We find that the majority of the transactions with the information service are changes to the data maintained by the service. We also find that of the three servers we evaluate, one of the commercial products provides the best performance for our workload and that the response time of the information service was not improved during the single experiment we performed with data distributed across two servers.
State-of-the-art developments in accelerator controls at the APS

The performance requirements of the Advanced Photon Source (APS) challenge the control system in a number of areas. This paper reviews a few applications of advanced technology in the control and monitoring of the APS. The application of digital signal processors (DSPs) and techniques are discussed, both from the perspective of a large distributed multiprocessor system and from that of embedded systems. In particular, two embedded applications are highlighted, a beam position monitor processor and a DSP-based power supply controller. Fast data distribution is often a requirement. The application of a high-speed network based on reflective memory is also discussed in the context of the APS global orbit feedback system. Timing systems provide opportunities to apply technologies such as high-speed logic and fiber optics. Examples of the use of these technologies are also included. Finally, every modern accelerator control system of any size requires networking. Features of the APS accelerator controls network are discussed.
Screen Filters for Microirrigation

Screen filters are simple and economical filtration devices of various shapes and sizes that are frequently used for the removal of physical contaminants. They can be made of metal, plastic, or synthetic cloth enclosed in a special housing. Screen filters are recommended for the removal of very fine sand or larger sized inorganic debris from irrigation water. It is normally not effective to use screen filters for the removal of heavy loads of algae or other organic material typical in surface water supply, since screens clog rapidly, requiring too frequent cleaning to be practical. Selection of a filter depends on the type and amount of contaminants in the irrigation water, the type of emitters, the size of the irrigation system, and the desired management practices. Screen filters should be a primary choice when water is pumped from a well where the only filtration requirement is to remove mineral particulate matter. They are sufficient in the absence of organic contamination and in addition they are usually inexpensive and easy to maintain. Keywords: drip irrigation; trickle irrigation; microirrigation; strainer; screen; filtration; emitter clogging; plugging; irrigation water quality
The rate of onset of beta adrenergic blockade by the optical isomers of alprenolol

Abstract The influence of time of incubation and concentration of the optical isomers of alprenolol on their beta receptor blocking potencies have been investigated in guinea-pig atria and tracheal strips. Although, for equiactive concentrations, the effects of the more potent (−)-isomer lag behind those of the (+) form in time, equimolar concentrations appear to have similar equilibrium in each tissue. Antagonism develops sooner for both isomers in guinea-pig tracheal strips. The results indicate that short incubation periods with optical isomers of beta receptor antagonists may result in apparently dissimilar isomer-activity-differences between guinea-pig atria and trachea. Also, from similar equilibration profiles of (−)- and (+)-isomers in each tissue it appears that access (diffusion ) to the receptor sites may be a non-stereoselective process.
Estimation of coronary flow reserve: Can SPECT compete with other modalities?

SPECT can obtain CFR measurements, both globally and regionally. Positive SPECT results, as well as positive PET results, depend upon the tracer having a constant extraction fraction over the flow range being studied. SPECT approaches will probably not be as accurate as dynamic PET for estimation of CFR because spatial and timing resolution is poorer. Also, the radiopharmaceuticals may not track flow as effectively as O-15 water. The method presented by Sugihara et al is simpler than dynamic cardiac SPECT with compartment modeling; however, the technique works only for radiopharmaceuticals that act like microspheres. It is important that the extraction remain constant over a large flow range. The microsphere method also relies on not having any wash-out from the tissue from the time of injection to the time of measurement. Dynamic cardiac SPECT works best with radiopharmaceuticals that have high extraction. These radiopharmaceuticals are not as fast as the ideal flow tracer O-15 water. However, because of the inadequate timing resolutions of commercial SPECT systems, it would be virtually impossible to image such flow tracers.
Perceptions of past, present and future selves among children and adolescents

Children's and adolescents' projections of the self into the future and memories of the self in the past were compared with their current self-conceptions. In Study 1, 82 children and adolescents between the ages of 4 and 15 were asked to describe themselves and to describe themselves as they thought they would be in five years. The results indicated that, at all ages, subjects were more likely to think of their current selves than their future selves in terms of typical activities, personality characteristics and preferences. The future self was more likely to be described in terms of social relationships than the current self. In Study 2, perceptions of change and continuity in the self were examined by asking 88 children and adolescents between the ages of 9 and 18 to describe themselves as they were two and four years in the past, as they are now, and as they will be two and four years in the future. Subjects also estimated the similarity between their present selves and their past and future selves. Similarity between the present self and future selves was perceived to be higher than between past and present selves. Children and adolescents assert that with time they become more capable and physically attractive, develop better personalities and mature intellectually and emotionally, while simultaneously shedding undesirable personality, cognitive and emotional characteristics. The results are discussed in terms of their implications for personal narratives and social cognitive approaches to personality.
Programming of Human Monocytes by the Uteroplacental Environment

During human pregnancy, monocytes recruited to the uterus (decidua) are modified to promote immune defense and semiallogeneic pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to identify decidual factors involved in programming of monocytes into decidual macrophages by comparing the surface and secretory phenotypes of resting and interferon- gamma (IFN-gamma)-activated monocytes, unfractionated decidual cells, purified term decidual macrophages, and monocyte-derived macrophages. Surface markers for antigen presentation (HLA-DR, CD86), a membrane-bound cytokine interleukin (IL)-15, leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors (LILRB1, LILRB2), and secreted anti-inflammatory cytokines (transforming growth factor [TGF]-beta1 and IL-10) were assessed. The results demonstrate that differentiated, activated monocytes closely resemble but are not identical to decidual macrophages. In addition to differential IFN-gamma responsiveness, decidual macrophages were smaller than monocyte-derived macrophages and produced IL-10, which monocyte-derived macrophages did not. Only the unfractionated decidual cells secreted TGF-beta1. These results suggest that activation, differentiation, and decidual signals cooperate to program monocytes into the decidual macrophage phenotype.
CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS AND FIRM VALUE

Corporate communications are crucially important to a firm because effective communications will increase firm value.
Temporal lobe abscess in a patient with isolated fungal sphenoiditis.

Pathology References Isolated sphenoid sinusitis accounts for 2-3% of all sinus infections evaluated by radiologic imaging. Fungal sphenoiditis is present in approximately 5% of isolated sphenoiditis. The most common presenting symptom is frontal/retro-orbital headache; this occurs in roughly 70% of cases. Nasal obstruction is the next most common symptom presenting in 30% of cases. Noninvasive fungal sphenoid sinusitis rarely presents with serious complications. However, diplopia and/or transient vision loss have been the most severe reported complications and have been seen in up to 3% of cases. Intracranial extension and cerebral abscess is another serious complication of fungal sphenoiditis, and to our knowledge has not been reported until now. Intracranial extension from sinusitis is a rare but potentially fatal disease characterized by bony erosion of the skull base and fungal extension into the adjacent cavities, such as the orbit or cranial vault. It is usually associated with acute fulminant invasive fungal sinusitis (AFIFS) in the immunocompromised population, such as patients who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or solid organ transplant, those with HIV/AIDS or diabetes mellitus, or those who are undergoing treatment with chemotherapy or immunosuppressants.3, 4 However, this complication has now been shown to very rarely occur in immunocompetent individuals as well, and seems to be increasing in frequency in this population.4-7 Of the approximately twenty pathogenic fungi, the three most common fungal infections in the nasal sinuses are the opportunistic genera of Aspergillus, Mucor, and Candida, of which Aspergillus is the most prevalent organism.1, 8 While rare, each of these can invade the adjacent structures, with Mucor being the most invasive and requiring the most aggressive surgical treatments. Intracranial extension and abscess formation most commonly occurs from the frontal sinus to the frontal and frontoparietal areas of the brain. 4 The rarest occurrence of invasive fungal sinusitis is seen in the sphenoid sinus, due to only 2.7% of all sinus infections occurring there.9 The rarity of this infection in comparison to other sinuses is because of both the anatomical orientation of the sphenoid sinus receiving little directed airflow, and because the sinus mucosa is lined by relatively few glands, producing less mucus to serve as a reservoir for infection.10 When invasion does occur from the sphenoid sinus, it can occur through one of two mechanisms: retrograde thrombophlebitis through diploic veins of the skull, or by direct extension through normal anatomic pathways or wall erosion.11 The fungus can either enter the frontoparietal areas of the brain similar to extension from the frontal and ethmoid sinuses, or it can extend into the cavernous sinus, causing visual defects secondary to destruction of cranial nerves III, IV, V, and VI. Another potential site of invasion is the temporal lobe, which has rarely been documented.10, 11 Case Report
A simple stopping rule for declaring treatment ineffectiveness in clinical trials

We consider the problem of stopping a clinical trial before its scheduled termination due to the apparent ineffectiveness of the experimental therapy, as compared with a control. We propose a simple-to-implement, intuitive decision rule based on the unadjusted attained significance levels from any appropriate statistical test. The proposed procedure may be used at any time during the study as an aid to help determine whether the study of an experimental treatment should be terminated early with the conclusion of treatment ineffectiveness. Much of the power of the usual fixed-sample test is retained while maintaining the nominal test size.
Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry: A Psychosomatic Service in the General Hospital:

Consultation psychiatry, an outgrowth of the tenets of psychosomatic medicine that followed the departure from mental-hospital psychiatry to the general-hospital-based psychiatric units, is similar to those consultation services in other specialties available on medical-surgical wards. Its primary aim is to interpret the psychosocial phenomena of health and illness and to redirect the physician from disease- to patient-orientation and to a comprehensive approach.Its functions are diagnostic-therapeutic, instructional and research directed. The psychosomatic orientation is a sine qua non in the understanding of the psychosocial meaning of physical illness, its effect on psychic disability, the psychosocial adjustment of the patient and his family and his ability to adapt to illness and the hospital. An essential feature is the evaluation of the doctor-patient relationship, especially when severe illness requires serious interventions, including the consultation and its reciprocal effect upon the doctor-pat...
Effect of hypercapnia on coronary circulation

The relative importance of hypercapnia in the control of coronary circulation was examined in 42 anaesthetised open chest rabbits. Coronary blood flow was determined with 15 μ.m radioactive microspheres. When mean (SD) Paco2 was increased from 38(10) to 76(16) mmHg in six rabbits, the hypercapnia caused a 62% increase in coronary blood flow. When a similar degree of metabolic acidosis was induced in 12 rabbits for either 15 or 60 min, no changes in coronary blood flow occurred. No increases in coronary blood flow occurred during hypercapnia with propranolol, 2 mg/kg (n=12), with or without atrial pacing to maintain heart rate. Similarly, carotid denervation prevented the carbon dioxide induced increase in coronary blood flow in six rabbits. Haemodiluted rabbits (n=6) with a 40% replacement of blood showed no changes in coronary blood flow with hypercapnia. This was due to the 22% decrease in systolic pressure-time index, despite their intact sympathetic nervous system and reduced Bohr shift. Therefore, although carbon dioxide is a coronary vasodilator, both direct vasodilatation and sympathetic adrenergic activation must be intact in order for coronary blood flow to be increased.
Einstein observations of hot stars

Abstract Surveys with instruments on the Einstein Observatory have shown that essentially all 0 and B main sequence stars are X-ray sources as are many, if not all, 0B supergiants and Wolf-Rayet stars. The X-ray luminosities are sufficient to explain broad lines from the superionization stages seen in the UV spectra of the stars. High energy resolution spectra from the Solid State Spectrometer are shown to place severe constraints on various models for the location of the X-ray sources in the outer atmospheres of the stars. Coronal and embedded shock models for the X-ray emission are discussed and each is found to have some problems in explaining the X-ray emission of 0B stars. X-ray line emission of Si XIII and S XV in ς Ori is discussed and interpreted as arising from magnetically confined loops.
The Demand for Welfare Generosity

This paper estimates economic models of the determinants of state benefit levels in the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program using 1969-1992 data. These models have been extensively researched; however, the existing literature has produced an unacceptably wide range of estimates. Using alternative econometric procedures, this paper systematically examines both the specification assumptions underlying previous analyses as well as several additional specification issues. It is, therefore, able to replicate and reconcile estimates from previous studies and to provide updated, consensus estimates of the demand for welfare generosity. It finds that changes in the average level of income within states have small but statistically significant positive effects on benefits with the confidence bounds on the elasticity extending from 0.11 to 0.82. Changes in the effective price of redistribution are found to have, at most, weak negative effects with elasticities in the range of -0.14 to 0.02. These results are used to evaluate the effects of block grant provisions in the recently enacted welfare reform legislation.