cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A case-control study of non-monitored ECG metrics preceding in-hospital bradyasystolic cardiac arrest: implication for predictive monitor alarms.

Abstract Objectives We investigated whether additional electrocardiographic (ECG) metrics not available on current patient monitors could predict bradyasystolic cardiac arrest in hospitalized adult patients. Methods A retrospective case–control design was used to study eight ECG metrics from 22 adult bradyasystolic patients and their 45 control patients. The eight ECG metrics included heart rate, QRS width, interval from P-wave peak to QRS onset (PRp), heart rate-corrected interval from QRS onset to T-wave peak (QTpc), amplitude of QRS peak (rAmp), amplitude of P-wave (pAmp), amplitude of T-wave (tAmp), and absolute difference in the ECG amplitudes at QRS onset and offset divided by rAmp, that is, relative J-point amplitude (relJAmp). We derived the maximal true-positive rate (TPR) of detecting cardiac arrest at a globally minimal false-positive rate (FPR) for each metric and for the absolute slope values resulted from a linear fitting of the time series of these metrics. We also recorded the first time crossing the detection threshold to the time of arrest as lead time. Results Conditions of relJAmp > 20% and PRp > 196.6 ms, respectively, achieved a TPR of 22.7% and 27.3% with zero FPRs. The lead prediction time of these two conditions was 5.7 ± 6.8 hours and 8.0 ± 7.2 hours, respectively. Performance of triggers based on the absolute slope values depended on the window length used for linear fitting. rAmp slope of a 2-hour window, PRp slope of a 30-minute window, and relJAmp slope of a 2-hour window achieved the best TPR of 27.3% (FPR = 2.3%, lead time = 6.5 ± 5.7 hours), 14.3% (FPR = 0.0%, lead time = 10.9 ± 10.9), and 18.2% (FPR = 2.3%, lead time = 8.8 ± 9.8), respectively. McNemar test showed that only relJAmp > 20.0% is significantly different from the baseline trigger of HR > 149.3 bpm (p = 0.046). In addition, metrics-based and slope-based triggers were complementary as an “OR” combination of two single-metric triggers raised the TPR up to 45.4% with zero FPR. Conclusions It is feasible to compute additional metrics from continuous ECG from bedside monitors. These additional parameters can provide highly specific triggers for predicting bradyasystolic cardiac arrest. Complementary triggers based on the slope of trending of these ECG metrics can further increase the sensitivity without incurring false positives.
Graduate training in consultation and liaison

Abstract A survey of all graduate programs in psychology to determine the types of training available in consultation and liaison is discussed. While non‐APA approved graduate programs place more relative emphasis on training in consultation than do APA approved programs, the latter provide a greater range of practicum experiences than the former who tend to rely more on courses and seminars. The larger number of students typically enrolled in non‐APA programs are not typically compensated for by larger numbers of supervisors suggesting that their supervised experience in consultation is less intense than that of students enrolled in APA approved programs. Nevertheless, nearly twice as many graduates of non‐APA approved programs accept positions in which consultation and liaison is an important part of their duties than do graduates of APA approved programs.
Erectile dysfunction medication use among men seeking substance abuse treatment.

Abstract Few studies of erectile dysfunction (ED) medications use among heterosexual drug using or abusing men have been conducted. The aims of this study were to provide information on ED medication use prevalence, method of acquisition, and sexual effects among men seeking substance abuse treatment. A single time point cross-sectional anonymous survey was completed by 297 men over the age of 18 seeking substance abuse treatment at an outpatient clinic at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center in the Pacific Northwest. Mean age of participants was 49.7 years and 59.4% selfidentified as Caucasian. Alcohol (56.7%) and cocaine (26.1%) were the primary drugs of abuse. Lifetime use of ED medications was reported by 24% (95%CI = 8.6%, 39.4%) of men. Almost 69% of ED medication users reported obtaining ED medications from a physician. Fifty-nine percent of ED medication users reported taking the medications to enhance their sexual experience rather than to treat ED, which was marginally associated with stimulant use...
The growth and optimization of InPSb/InGaAs/InAsSb strained-layer superlattice emitters by metal organic chemical vapor deposition

We have prepared InAsSb/InGaAs strained-layer superlattices (SLS's) and InPSb confinement layers using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) for use as infrared emitters. X-ray diffraction was used to determine lattice matching as well as composition and structure of the SLS's. Photoluminescence linewidth and intensity were used as a measure of the quality of the structures. Typical FWHM were less than 10 meV. The presence of interface layers were indicated by broadened x-ray diffraction peaks for samples grown under non-optimized conditions. Two types of interfacial layers apparently due to a difference in composition at the interfaces were observed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The width of the x-ray peaks can be explained by a variation of the interfacial layer thicknesses. Optimized growth resulted in SLS's with narrow x-ray peaks and high radiative efficiency. Room temperature LEDs operating between 4-5 μm have been prepared.
Wave spectral transformation measurements at Sylt, North Sea

Abstract Wave spectra were measured in the nearshore region extending approximately 900 m from the shore at the Island of Sylt (North Germany) in the North Sea. The measurement covered two periods, one in May 1976 when the sea condition was considered normal in this region and the other period was during a storm in September 1978. The field results are presented and compared with numerical computations for energy transformation in shallow water, based on a numerical model developed by Shiau and Wang (1977). The field data supported the validity of the numerical model. The results suggest that, prior to wave breaking, the transformation of wave components is mainly influenced by shoaling and refraction. The bottom frictional effect could also be important in the energy-containing range. After breaking, turbulent generation due to wave instability seems to be the dominant mechanism of energy dissipation.
Cross-species neural transplants of embryonic septal nuclei to the hippocampal formation of adult rats

In the absence of immunosuppressive treatment, suspensions of cells from the developing septal region of mouse embryos were transplanted successfully into the denervated hippocampal formations of adult rat hosts. The longitudinal recovery of acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-containing fibers in the host was the index of transplant success. In transplant recipients, the fornix-fimbrial interconnection between the septum and hippocampal formation was severed unilaterally, and two 5 μl aliquots of cell suspension were injected into the hippocampal formations of host rats. Five sets of controls included one in which animals received no surgical intervention (Normal Controls), and another which was subjected to a sham operation (Sham Controls). The fornix-fimbria pathway was transected unilaterally in Lesion Control animals, while Hippocampal Controls received the same lesion plus two injections of non-cholinergic cells from the hippocampal formations of mouse embryos. Injection Controls were subjected to a fornix-fimbria transection and given two injections of debris and dead cells in saline. The cross-species transplants induced the return of a normal AChE laminar pattern in the recipient rats. The density of the laminar pattern, quantified with laser densitometry, was greatest in transplants that had survived for one week, but only in sections adjacent to the injection sites. Although the density decreased from the first through third weeks of survival, overall density of AChE staining stabilized from the fourth through 17th weeks of survival. Because the success rates of these cross-species transplants were similar to those reported for homogenic tissue, it was concluded that the rat brain is a suitable host for xenogenic transplants of septal. neurons from embryonic mice.
Interaction Between Subsystems Of Vision And Motion Planning In Unmanned Vehicles With Autonomous Intelligence

A structure of preprocessing is described corresponding to a planner strata of the "perception-cognition" interaction within the machine intelligence for an autonomous mobile vehicle. A terraine is represented via a polygonal map. Algorithms are described which transform such a map into a database which can be used by PLANNER to solve motion planning problem.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The field emission total energy distribution in the presence of adsorbates

Abstract The total energy distribution (TED) of field-emitted electrons from an adsorbate-covered metal surface is studied within the framework of the Anderson Hamiltonian, but taking overcompleteness of states into account. The correct asymptotic behavior of the adsorbate wavefunction, postulated in the previous work, is now established, and a numerical correction factor (~15) to the adsorbate induced current density is obtained.
Evaluating multiperiod survey forecasts of real net exports

Abstract Examination of the ASA-NBER survey data on real net exports indicates that the multiperiod professional forecasts are all unbiased. The short-term as well as the four-quarter-ahead forecasts are also rational, suggesting their usefulness in policy-making.
Limits on nonstandard top quark couplings from electroweak measurements.

We calculate the typical size of loop corrections to electroweak observables arising from nonstandard {ital Z{bar t}t} and {ital Wtb} vertices. We use an effective Lagrangian formalism based on the electroweak gauge gorup SU(2){sub {ital L}}{times}U(1){sub {ital Y}}{r_arrow}U(1){sub E}{sub M}. Limits on the nonstandard model top quark couplings from electroweak observables are presented and compared with previously obtained limits. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Fracture Toughness of Experimental Dental Composites Aged in Ethanol

Fracture toughness (KIc) is an intrinsic property which may be related to the ability of a restorative material to resist fracture and abrasion. This property may change for a dental composite restorative due to the effects of various oral solvents. The hypothesis to be tested was that aging in ethanol would cause a reduction in the fracture toughness of dental composites, and that the extent of this reduction might be dependent upon certain compositional variables. The fracture toughnesses of three series of experimental composites with various degrees of conversion, filler volume, and percent of silane-treated fillers were compared after the composites were aged for periods of one month and six months in 75% ethanol/water, a solvent which serves as a food-simulating liquid. An unfilled Bis-GMA/TEGDMA resin served as the control. All composites, with the exception of one subjected to a post-light-curing heat treatment, experienced a significant reduction (from 30 to 56%) in KIc after being aged in 75% ethanol for six months. A similar reduction in KIc of 58% for the unfilled resin suggested that the reduction for the composites was due to a weakening of the resin matrix, which facilitated crack propagation. A simultaneous reduction in microhardness was also demonstrated. One month of aging in ethanol also produced large reductions in KIc for specimens with insufficient cure and minimal filler volume, suggesting that the properties of the resin matrix predominated for these composites.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Influence of living area space on agonistic interaction in Telomian dogs.

This study tested the hypothesis that reducing the amount of living area space of a group of dogs leads to a greater frequency of agonistic interaction. Three litters of 6-month-old Telomians were tested in their 3 × 4 m home pen either in the full room or a 1.5 × 2 m section. The frequency of barks, growls, yelps, rushes, snaps, and bites were recorded daily for four 10-min periods: morning undisturbed, morning during feeding, afternoon undisturbed, and afternoon during bone competition. Results show that (1) most agonistic behavior was initiated and controlled by the dominant dogs, and (2) the level of agonistic interactions for any given condition was approximately the same regardless of area sizes. The data suggest that dogs reared together can form stable dominance orders which are not seriously disturbed even by severe crowding.
Isolation and partial characterization of the larval midgut trypsin from the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta Johannson (Lepidoptera: Sphingidale)☆

Abstract 1. 1. Affinity chromatography using ovomucoid and p-aminobenzamidine has been used to isolate the trypsin-like digestive protease from larval midgut homogenates and midgut content of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, Johannson. 2. 2. The enzyme is anionic and has a molecular weight of 24,000 as determined by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. 3. 3. Studies with inhibitors suggest the presence of both serine and histidine in the active site. 4. 4. Products obtained from the digestion of glucagon demonstrate preference for lysl and arginyl peptide bonds. 5. 5. The physical and catalytic properties of the enzyme are compared with those of other serine proteases having trypsin-like specificity.
The Energetic and Nutritional Contribution of Glucose and Glycine Taken up from Natural Sea Water by Adult Marine Mussels

. The removal of glycine and glucose by freshly collected adult Mytilus edulis was determined using radiolabeled substances added to ambient concentrations of dissolved organic materials in freshly collected natural sea water. Uptake rates were calculated for substrate concentrations of 0.5 μM glycine and 1.0 μM glucose and were compared with the animals' energy and nitrogen demands as measured by oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion rates. Respiration and ammonia excretion rates as well as cither glycine or glucose removal were all determined for the same animals. The mean respiration rate was 670μl O2 g-1h-1, the mean ammonia excretion rate 1.95 μg-at NH4-g-1 h-1. The calculated uptake rates were 0.48 μmol -g-1-h-1 for free amino acids and 0.44 μmol-g-1 h-1 for free simple sugars. Such uptake rates could have contributed roughly 13% of the mussels' energy requirements or 10% of the mussels' nitrogen requirements assuming the following conditions: 0.5 μM concentration of free amino acids, 1.0μM concentration of simple sugars, uptake of total amino acids at a rate based on a weighted removal rate of glycine, alanine, serine, and glutamic acid, and uptake of simple sugars at a rate equal to that of glucose removal. It is apparent that simple organic substances dissolved in sea water may be of some benefit to mussels, especially when the substances occur in concentrations typical of coastal sea water.
Transcatheter ablation of ectopic atrial tachycardia in young patients using radiofrequency current.

BACKGROUNDEctopic atrial tachycardia (EAT) is a reversible cause of cardiomyopathy but may be quite difficult to control with conventional therapy. Transcatheter ablation with radiofrequency current was tested as an alternative to medical or surgical treatment of this condition.METHODS AND RESULTSTwelve young patients (aged 10 months to 19 years) with drug-resistant EAT were treated with direct transcatheter ablation of the ectopic focus using radiofrequency (RF) energy. All had depressed left ventricular contractility by echocardiographic criteria, involving shortening fractions of 10-26% (median, 20%; normal, 28-35%). The EAT was mapped to the left atrium in seven cases and to the right atrium in five. Local atrial activation at the ectopic site preceded the onset of the surface P wave by 20-60 msec (median, 42 msec). Tachycardia terminated 0.5-13.0 seconds (median, 2.0 seconds) into a successful RF application. The ablation effectively eliminated EAT in 11 of 12 patients (92%), all of whom were dischar...
Acoustic mode with time-dependent phase velocity in photoexcited semiconductors

Using the Boltzmann equation, we study the collective modes of a photoexcited electron-hole plasma in a direct-gap, small-electron-mass semiconductor in which the electron distribution is evolving with time. In this situation, we find that there exists an acoustic mode of the electron-hole plasma with a time-dependent hase velocity. The phase velocity is approximately given by ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}_{\mathit{p},}$h/${\mathit{q}}_{\mathrm{s}\mathrm{c},}$e(t), where ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}_{\mathit{p},}$h is the hole plasma frequency and ${\mathit{q}}_{\mathrm{s}\mathrm{c},}$e(t) is the screening wave vector of the electron distribution ${\mathit{f}}_{\mathit{e}}$(v,t). As the electron distribution cools, the ${\mathit{q}}_{\mathrm{s}\mathrm{c},}$e(t) increases and hence the phase velocity of the mode decreases with time.
A facular model based on the wings of the Ca II lines

An approach is shown for using the extensive damping wings of the Ca II lines in a direct analysis of photospheric temperature structures. Questions concerning the formation of the Ca II wings are considered. The low angular resolution photoelectric observations reported by Shine and Linsky (1972) are used to derive the spatially averaged differences between faculae and the quiet sun. Data regarding a photospheric facula model are presented in a table.
The implications of out-of-pocket cost of cancer treatment in the USA: a critical appraisal of the literature

Advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment have led to increased societal costs and out-of-pocket patient cost. We reviewed the literature on the impact of out-of-pocket cancer care costs on the patient experience, and described efforts made to address these costs. A critical appraisal of articles published in the USA from 2004 to 2014 was performed. The literature revealed that even insured patients receiving anticancer therapy are vulnerable to financial distress, which can impel patients to borrow money, deplete their savings, or engage in cost-coping strategies including nonadherence to prescribed treatment. Additional research is required to define financial distress risk factors, patient-physician communication of the costs of cancer care, and supportive care models for patients and survivors with substantial financial burdens.
Indirect measurement of a laser communications bit-error-rate reduction with low-order adaptive optics

In experimental measurements of the bit-error rate for a laser communication system, we show improved performance with the implementation of low-order (tip/tilt) adaptive optics in a free-space link. With simulated atmospheric tilt injected by a conventional piezoelectric tilt mirror, an adaptive optics system with a Xinetics tilt mirror was used in a closed loop. The laboratory experiment replicated a monostatic propagation with a cooperative wave front beacon at the receiver. Owing to constraints in the speed of the processing hardware, the data is scaled to represent an actual propagation of a few kilometers under moderate scintillation conditions. We compare the experimental data and indirect measurement of the bit-error rate before correction and after correction, with a theoretical prediction.
A fast algorithm of critical power flow for reactive power balance and and its application in UHV grid

With the planning and constructing of the UHV grid of China, it is urgent to analysis the reactive power balance and its critical power flow for UHV grid. In the paper, firstly, the feasible reactive power balance principles are proposed; secondly, the quantitive relationship between the var demand and active power flow through the reactance element is analyzed in depth. Furthermore, only based on active power flow, the fast algorithm of substation-centered reactive power balance and its critical power flow is proposed. The algorithm can not only be applied into the fast quantitive analysis of the given power flow pattern, but also be used to obtain the sensitive relation curves between the critical power flows and the transformer load rates. Finally, the demand and the deployment of CSR(controllable shunt reactor) in a UHV transmission project are studied with the proposed algorithm, and the conclusions and recommended deployment schemes are given.
Research review of nongovernmental organizations' security policies for humanitarian programs in war, conflict, and postconflict environments.

ObjectivesTo identify the most and least commonly cited security management messages that nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are communicating to their field staff, to determine the types of documentation that NGOs most often use to communicate key security messages, and to distinguish the points of commonality and divergence across organizations in the content of key security messages.MethodsThe authors undertook a systematic review of available security policies, manuals, and training materials from 20 international humanitarian NGOs using the InterAction Minimum Operating Security Standards as the basis for a review framework.ResultsThe most commonly cited standards include analytical security issues such as threat and risk assessment processes and guidance on acceptance, protection, and deterrence approaches. Among the least commonly cited standards were considering security threats to national staff during staffing decision processes, incorporating security awareness into job descriptions, and ensuring that national staff security issues are addressed in trainings. NGO staff receive security-related messages through multiple document types, but only 12 of the 20 organizations have a distinct security policy document. Points of convergence across organizations in the content of commonly cited standards were found in many areas, but differences in security risk and threat assessment guidance may undermine communication between aid workers about changes in local security environments.ConclusionsAlthough the humanitarian community has experienced significant progress in the development of practical staff security guidance during the past 10 years, gaps remain that can hinder efforts to garner needed resources, clarify security responsibilities, and ensure that the distinct needs of national staff are recognized and addressed. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;7:241-250)
Evidence of catalytic production of hot atomic hydrogen in RF generated hydrogen/helium plasmas

Abstract A study of the line shapes of hydrogen Balmer series lines in RF generated low pressure He/H2 plasmas produced results suggesting a catalytic process between helium and hydrogen species results in the generation of ‘hot’ (ca. 28 eV) atomic hydrogen. Even far from the electrodes ‘hot’ atomic hydrogen was predominant in He/H2 plasmas. Line shapes, relative line areas of cold and hot atomic hydrogen (hot/cold > 2.5), were very similar for areas between the electrodes and far from the electrodes for these plasmas. In contrast, in Xe/H2 only ‘warm’ (
Contemporaneous X-ray and VLBI radio observations of the quasar NRAO 140

New observations and earlier ones are combined to present a time history of the X-ray emission and radio structure of the quasar NRAO 140 between 1978 and 1985. The compact radio structure reveals a jet composed of seven components, with two components closest to the 'core' separating superluminally from the core. The X-ray photoelectric absorption cutoff moved to significantly higher energy in 1980 compared to 1979 and 1985. This corresponds to an increase in the column density of cold gas along the line of sight in 1980. The X-ray absorption in 1979 and 1985 is consistent with that expected from H I and H2 in the Galaxy. The X-ray flux declined by about a factor of two between 1979 and 1985, while the flux density of the compact radio core declined by a similar factor between 1980 and 1984. This coincidence, combined with the statistical correlations between compact radio and X-ray fluxes of quasars, suggests that there is a direct causal connection between the compact radio core and the X-ray emitting region.
A Study of Transport Geometry on Heat/Mass Transfer and Polarization of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

The main objective of this paper is to examine the effects of transport geometry on the efficiency of an electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cell. A three-dimensional thermo-fluid-electrochemical model is developed to the influences of channel dimensions, rib width and electrolyte thickness on the temperature, mass transfer coefficients, species concentration, local current density and power density. Results demonstrate that decreasing the height of flow channels can significantly lower the average solid temperature and improve the cell efficiency due to higher heat/mass transfer coefficient between the channel wall and flow stream, and a shorter current path. However, this improvement is limited for the smallest channel. The cell with a thicker rib width and a thinner electrolyte layer has higher efficiency and lower average temperature. Numerical simulation will be expected to help optimize the design of a solid oxide fuel cell.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Cervical cancer with a rare umbilical metastases in prior surgical site

Abstract Introduction Port-site metastasis of cervical cancer is a relatively rare occurrence, and has been reported in the published literature as a pre-terminal event. Presentation of case We present the case of a 52-year-old female who was diagnosed with cervical cancer after presenting to our institution’s hospital with urinary symptoms not relieved by multiple treatments with antibiotics. To fully evaluate the extent of disease, positron emission tomography-computed tomography imaging was obtained, showing an area of mildly increased fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in her umbilicus. While undergoing external-beam radiotherapy treatment for her cervical cancer, she began to experience pain in the umbilicus associated with a mass. A biopsy was taken, revealing metastatic cervical cancer at the site of a previous port-site incision for a cholecystectomy that the patient underwent 18 months before the finding. Discussion Port-site metastasis have been reported following kidney, bladder, and colon cancer resections, with reports of cervical cancer cases being exceedingly rare. Several hypotheses have emerged as potential explanations for port-site metastasis. Conclusion To our knowledge, this represents the first reported case of a port-site metastasis to an incision site created for an unrelated laparoscopic surgery, performed well in advance of the diagnosis of cervical cancer.
CONGRESSIONAL RECRUITMENT AND REPRESENTATION

This is a study of the relationship between local political organization, candidate recruitment, and representation in the United States House of Representatives. It seeks to ascertain the effects which different systems of recruitment have upon the kinds of men who enter public life and the public policies they espouse. A case study of metropolitan Chicago is used to demonstrate the utility of this kind of analysis. The objective is to distinguish distinct systems of recruitment in the Chicago area, describe the factors associated with each, and note the consequences of each for representation in Congress.
Patterned cell culture inside microfluidic devices

This paper describes a simple plasma-based dry etching method that enables patterned cell culture inside microfluidic devices by allowing patterning, fluidic bonding and sterilization steps to be carried out in a single step. This plasma-based dry etching method was used to pattern cell-adhesive and non-adhesive areas on the glass and polystyrene substrates. The patterned substrate was used for selective attachment and growth of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells, NIH 3T3 mouse fibroblasts, and primary rat cortical neurons. Finally, we have successfully combined the dry-patterned substrate with a microfluidic device. Patterned primary rat neurons were maintained for up to 6 days inside the microfluidic devices and the neurons' somas and processes were confined to the cell-adhesive region. The method developed in this work offers a convenient way of micropatterning biomaterials for selective attachment of cells on the substrates, and enables culturing of patterned cells inside microfluidic devices for a number of biological research applications where cells need to be exposed to well-controlled fluidic microenvironment.
Reflections on Sigurd P. Ramfjord: his contributions to evidence-based periodontics.

1124 As a student, friend and colleague of Sigurd P. Ramfjord for almost 50 years it is a pleasure to reflect on some of his many contributions to periodontics. In many respects he practiced evidence-based principles long before the term “evidence-based” became a part of the recent emphasis on this approach to periodontics. What’s more, he applied the concept not only to clinical practice but to the conduct of research as well. How “Sig” came from another life and another country to become a major scientific figure1 in periodontics is an interesting series of events and associations that blended his curiosity about the nature of things with ongoing medical research at the University of Michigan.
Serum LH levels in prepubertal female pigs chronically treated with synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone-follicle stimulating hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH-FSH-RH).

A double—antibody radioimmunoassay utilizing a heterologous system specific for porcine luteinizing hormone (PLH) has been developed with rabbit antibovine LH serum as a first antibody. Porcine LH (LER-786-3) was used for iodination and as a reference standard. Reliable estimates of LH could be obtained in 200 pi of serum from immature pigs at any time. Porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), porcine thyroid- stimulating hormone, porcine adrenocorticotropic hormone or serum components per se did not affect measurements of LH. Ten prepubertal female pigs (mean wt 12.8 kg) were assigned randomly in equal numbers to a treated or control group. Treatment consisted of 16 im injections of 25 ng of pure synthetic LH and FSH releasing hormone (LH-RH/FSH-RH) in one ml of acidified saline or acidified saline only at 6–hr intervals over a period of 96 hr for treated and control animals respectively. Blood samples were collected via indwelling jugular catheters, at various times following each injection. Serum LH...
Dependence of FDG uptake on tumor microenvironment

Purpose: To investigate the factors affecting the 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose ( 18 F-FDG) uptake in tumors at a microscopic level, by correlating it with tumor hypoxia, cellular proliferation, and blood perfusion. Methods and Materials: Nude mice bearing Dunning prostate tumors (R3327-AT) were injected with 18 F-FDG and pimonidazole, bromodeoxyuridine, and, 1 min before sacrifice, with Hoechst 33342. Selected tumor sections were imaged by phosphor plate autoradiography, while adjacent sections were used to obtain the images of the spatial distribution of Hoechst 33342, pimonidazole, and bromodeoxyuridine. The images were co-registered and analyzed on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Results: Statistical analysis of the data obtained from these tumors demonstrated that 18 F-FDG uptake was positively correlated with pimonidazole staining intensity in each data set studied. Correlation of FDG uptake with bromodeoxyuridine staining intensity was always negative. In addition, FDG uptake was always negatively correlated with the staining intensity of Hoechst 33342. Conclusions: For the Dunning prostate tumors studied, FDG uptake was always positively correlated with hypoxia and negatively correlated with both cellular proliferation and blood flow. Therefore, for the tumor model studied, higher FDG uptake is indicative of tumor hypoxia, but neither blood flow nor cellular proliferation.
Emily Dickinson Revisited: A Study of Periodicity in Her Work

OBJECTIVE: Emily Dickinson, arguably one of America’s foremost poets, is characterized by critics as able to capture extreme emotional states in her greatest work. Recent dating of her poems offers the periodicity of her writing as a behavior that can be examined for patterns of affective illness that may relate to these states. METHOD: The bulk of Dickinson’s work was written during a clearly defined 8-year period when she was age 28–35. Poems written during that period, 1858–1865, were grouped by year and examined for annual and seasonal distribution. RESULTS: Her 8-year period of productivity was marked by two 4-year phases. The first shows a seasonal pattern characterized by greater creative output in spring and summer and a lesser output during the fall and winter. This pattern was interrupted by an emotional crisis that marked the beginning of the second phase, a 4-year sustained period of greatly heightened productivity and the emergence of a revolutionary poetic style. CONCLUSIONS: These data, sup...
Satellite methods underestimate indirect climate forcing by aerosols.

Satellite-based estimates of the aerosol indirect effect (AIE) are consistently smaller than the estimates from global aerosol models, and, partly as a result of these differences, the assessment of this climate forcing includes large uncertainties. Satellite estimates typically use the present-day (PD) relationship between observed cloud drop number concentrations (Nc) and aerosol optical depths (AODs) to determine the preindustrial (PI) values of Nc. These values are then used to determine the PD and PI cloud albedos and, thus, the effect of anthropogenic aerosols on top of the atmosphere radiative fluxes. Here, we use a model with realistic aerosol and cloud processes to show that empirical relationships for ln(Nc) versus ln(AOD) derived from PD results do not represent the atmospheric perturbation caused by the addition of anthropogenic aerosols to the preindustrial atmosphere. As a result, the model estimates based on satellite methods of the AIE are between a factor of 3 to more than a factor of 6 smaller than model estimates based on actual PD and PI values for Nc. Using ln(Nc) versus ln(AI) (Aerosol Index, or the optical depth times angstrom exponent) to estimate preindustrial values for Nc provides estimates for Nc and forcing that are closer to the values predicted by the model. Nevertheless, the AIE using ln(Nc) versus ln(AI) may be substantially incorrect on a regional basis and may underestimate or overestimate the global average forcing by 25 to 35%.
Cope's Rule, Hypercarnivory, and Extinction in North American Canids

Over the past 50 million years, successive clades of large carnivorous mammals diversified and then declined to extinction. In most instances, the cause of the decline remains a puzzle. Here we argue that energetic constraints and pervasive selection for larger size (Cope's rule) in carnivores lead to dietary specialization (hypercarnivory) and increased vulnerability to extinction. In two major clades of extinct North American canids, the evolution of large size was associated with a dietary shift to hypercarnivory and a decline in species durations. Thus, selection for attributes that promoted individual success resulted in progressive evolutionary failure of their clades.
Teaching a Social Psychology Course on the Web

Although use of the Web in teaching psychology courses is becoming increasingly popular, much of the published literature on the topic focuses on using the Web as a supplement to on-campus courses. I describe a completely Web-based social psychology course offered at my college and discuss the students' and instructor's reactions to the course.
Cataloguing in an Electronic Age

SUMMARY Examines the achievements in bibliographic control of the last thirty years and the strides made toward Universal Bibliographic Control. Discusses the intended and unintended effects of three standards-the MARC format, ISBD, and AACR. Analyzes the types of resources in cyberspace to be organized and their similarities to and differences from documents librarians already know. Suggests strategies for solving the seemingly insoluble problems of cataloging the Internet and predicts how metadata will evolve.
Polarimetric Microwave Remote Sensing of Hurricane Ocean Winds

We presented the analysis of Windsat data for hurricanes Isabel and Fabian in 2003. The polarimetric third and fourth Stokes parameter observations from the Windsat 10, 18 and 37 GHz channels were collocated with the ocean surface winds from the Holland wind model, the QuikSCAT wind vectors and the Global Data Assimilation System (GDAS) operated by the National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP). The collocated data were binned as a function of wind speed and wind direction, and were expanded by sinusoidal series of the relative azimuth angles between wind and observation directions. The coefficients of the sinusoidal series, corrected for atmospheric attenuation, have been used to develop an empirical geophysical model function (GMF). The Windsat GMF for extreme high wind compares very well with the aircraft radiometer and radar measurements.
Paired Field Placements: A Means for Collaboration.

In this qualitative study, pairs of preservice teachers were placed with single cooperating teachers in a 100-hour urban field placement. The question guiding this research was would preservice teachers collaborate in ways that contributed to their professional development and if so why, how, and to what end? Results from field notes, multiple observations, interviews, and work samples indicate that paired placements promoted multiple perspectives, led to increased dialogue about teaching and learning, and facilitated the implementation of student-centered pedagogies. Importantly, paired field placements have potential to nurture and develop skills of collaboration vital to current reform efforts.
Violence Against Immigrant Women The Roles of Culture, Context, and Legal Immigrant Status on Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence against immigrant women is at epidemic proportions, but research has only recently begun to address the concern. A review of the legal, medical, and social science research literature reveals little data, but that which exist demonstrate that immigrant women's cultures, contexts, and legal status (a) increase vulnerability for abuse, (b) are used by batterers to control and abuse immigrant women, and (c) create barriers to women seeking and receiving help. Data also reveal that immigrant culture and context offer resiliency factors through which programs and policy can be used to better serve these populations.
Effect of ketoconazole plus low-dose prednisone on progression of chronic renal failure.

Abstract Patients with any of four different types of chronic renal failure (CRF) (glomerular disease, interstitial nephritis, diabetic nephropathy, or polycystic disease) were observed using sequential determinations of glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Those whose GFR showed progression were either given ketoconazole 200 to 600 mg/d (to suppress cortisol production) plus prednisone 2.5 mg/d (to prevent anterior pituitary escape) and observed with the use of more GFRs, or were observed while four additional GFRs were determined before starting these drugs; some patients were subsequently withdrawn from these drugs and were observed using more GFRs. The effect of these drugs on rate of progression was estimated by a linear spline technique, using observations before, during, and (when available) after treatment. In 20 patients, sufficient data were obtained to estimate the magnitude of this effect. In seven patients with chronic glomerular disease, progressing at − 0.62 ± 0.12 mL/min/mo, progression slowed by 66% ± 12% ( P P P
Probabilistic analysis of data interleaving for reed-solomon coding in BCMCS

In cdma2000 1xEV-DO Broadcast and Multicast Services (BCMCS), Reed-Solomon coding is applied to the layers above the turbo code, and is particularly effective in correcting long bursts of errors. An additional block interleaving mechanism improves the performance of RS coding by increasing the time diversity, to an extent controlled by the width of the error control block (ECB), which converts error bursts into random patterns. We propose and evaluate a performance model of RS coding under varying conditions of Rayleigh fading on the broadcast channel, within the levels of block interleaving that the BCMCS specification allows. Simulation results show that our model predicts the performance of RS coding accurately. This evaluation will allow a service provider to determine the most efficient RS code for their target service quality, that maximizes the effective data-rate and minimizes the energy required for the RS decoding process.
A differential wavelet-based noise reduction approach to improve clustering of hyperspectral Raman imaging data

Raman spectral imaging has been widely used for extracting chemical information from biological specimens. One of the challenging problems is to cluster the chemical groups from the vast amount of hyperdimensional spectral imaging data so that functionally similar groups can be identified. Moreover, the poor signal to noise ratio makes the problem more difficult. In the paper, we introduce a novel approach that combines a differential wavelet based noise reduction approach with a fuzzy clustering algorithm for the classification of chemical groups. The discrimination of true spectral features and noises was facilitated by decomposing the spectral data in the differential wavelet transform domain. The performance of the proposed approach was evaluated by the improvement over the subsequent clustering of a dentin/adhesive interface specimen under different noise levels. In comparison with conventional smoothing algorithms, the proposed approach demonstrates better performance.
Predator removal and nesting waterbird success at San Francisco Bay, California

Abstract The efficacy of long-term predator removal in urbanized areas is poorly understood. The impact of predation on ground-nesting waterbirds, as well as predator abundance and composition in predator removal versus non-removal or reference sites were examined at South San Francisco Bay. The success of natural nests and predator activity was monitored using track plates, trip cameras, wire haircatchers and simulated nests. Removal sites had higher nest densities, but lower hatching success than reference sites. Predator composition and abundance were not different at the removal and reference sites for any predator other than feral Cat (Felis domesticus). Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) comprised the majority (84%) of predators removed, yet remained the most abundant predators in removal and reference sites. Urban environments provide supplemental food that may influence skunks and other nest predators to immigrate into vacancies created by predator removal. Based on the findings from this study, pr...
Tolerance of Three Juniper Species to Glyphosate

ADDITIONAL INDEX WORDS. herbicide, N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine SUMMARY. Glyphosate traditionally has been used by growers and landscapers as a nonselective herbicide; however, selective uses do exist. The use of glyphosate to control weeds in dormant and actively growing bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon )i s an example of selective weed control. Several ornamentals, including conifer species, have been known to exhibit good tolerance to over-the-top applications of glyphosate. Unfortunately, little published information exists on rates of glyphosate that may be used on specific ornamental species. The objective of this research was to determine the tolerance levels of three juniper species [‘Blue Pacific’ shore juniper (Juniperus conferta), ‘Blue Star’ juniper (Juniperus squamata), and ‘Parsoni’ juniper (Juniperus davurica)] to various rates of glyphosate. Research conducted in 2004 and 2005 indicated that injury to three juniper species did not exceed 23% with glyphosate rates up to 2.5 lb/acre.
The Youth Development Leadership Experience: Transformative, Reflective Education for Youthwork Practitioners

The Youth Development Leadership Master of Education (M.Ed.) Program, a professional studies graduate program in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at the University of Minnesota, has been in existence for twelve years. In this article, faculty describe the program philosophy, pedagogy, leadership, and curriculum; share insights into the student experience of youth development, and; reflect on the important lessons learned that have shaped the program over time as well as the challenges that continue today.
Advanced Optical Daylighting Systems: Light Shelves and Light Pipes

We present two perimeter daylighting systems that passively redirect beam sunlight further from the window wall using special optical films, an optimized geometry, and a small glazing aperture. The objectives of these systems are (1) to increase daylight illuminance levels at 4.6-9.1 m (15-30 ft) from the window aperture with minimum solar heat gains and (2) to improve the uniformity of the daylighting luminance gradient across the room under variable solar conditions throughout the year. The designs were developed through a series of computer-assisted ray-tracing studies, laser visualization techniques, and photometric measurements and observations using physical scale models. Bi-directional illuminance measurements in combination with analytical routines were then used to simulate daylight performance for any solar position, and were incorporated into the DOE-2.1E building energy analysis computer program to evaluate energy savings. Results show increased daylight levels and an improved luminance gradient throughout the year compared to conventional daylighting systems.
Continuous-wave operation of 780-nm AlGaAs/GaAs distributed feedback lasers

Short-wavelength DFB lasers with a GaAs substrate of 700-800-nm emission are desirable for devices in the fields of sensing and information processing with optics, such as a fiber-optic gyroscope, and also in optoelectric integration devices such as an integrated-optic disk pickup. However, there are some difficulties in fabricating the 700-800-nm AIGaAs/GaAs DFB lasers compared with the 1.55-μm InGaAsP/lnP DFB lasers. One greatest difficulty has been said to be that the oxidized film on the AIGaAs waveguide layer surface, which is formed easily in the etching process, makes it impossible to obtain high-quality successive layers.
Influences of an Evangelical Christian Worldview on Women’s Leadership Development

The ProblemA recent Pew Research Center report noted that 70.6% of U.S. American adults self-identify as Christian; 25.4% identify themselves as Protestant Evangelical. Historically, the worldview ...
Effects of Treatment with Thiamin Antagonists, Oxythiamin and Pyrithiamin and of Thiamin Excess on the Levels and Distribution of Thiamin in Rat Tissues

Levels of thiamin and its derivatives in brain, heart and liver were determined in control, thiamin-deficient, pyrithiamin-treated and oxythiamin-treated rats at various times after the start of treatment. With 10μg of thiamin/100g/day subcutaneously, rats rapidly lost thiamin from the tissues until growth maintenance levels were reached. Oxythiamin had a minimal further effect on tissue thiamin while pyrithiamin caused further marked reduction. With higher levels of thiamin intake, tissue thiamin levels increased with intakes of up to 150-200μg/ 100g/day after which they did not show any further significant increase. Levels of pyrithiamin above 50μg/ 100g/day for 20 days had only minimal further effect upon tissue thiamin levels over that with 50μg.
Cardiac imaging techniques: Which, when, and why

SUMMARY Although a variety of cardiac imaging methods are available, their effective use requires knowledge of their underlying principles, clinical applications, potential pitfalls, and expense. This review outlines, for the generalist, the basics of echocardiography, nuclear imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and provides insight into their appropriate use.