cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pattern recognition principles

The present work gives an account of basic principles and available techniques for the analysis and design of pattern processing and recognition systems. Areas covered include decision functions, pattern classification by distance functions, pattern classification by likelihood functions, the perceptron and the potential function approaches to trainable pattern classifiers, statistical approach to trainable classifiers, pattern preprocessing and feature selection, and syntactic pattern recognition.
Ventriculostomy-related infections: The performance of different definitions for diagnosing infection.

Introduction. Comparison of rates of ventriculostomy-related infections (VRIs) across institutions is difficult due to the lack of a standard definition. We sought to review published definitions of VRI and apply them to a test cohort to determine the degree of variability in VRI diagnosis. Materials and methods. We conducted a PubMed search for definitions of VRI using the search strings “ventriculostomy-related infection” and “ventriculostomy-associated infection.” We applied these definitions to a test cohort of 18 positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures taken from ventriculostomies at two institutions to compare the frequency of infection using each definition. Results. We found 16 unique definitions of VRI. When the definitions were applied to the test cohort, the frequency of infection ranged from 22 to 94% (median 61% with interquartile range (IQR) 56–74%). The concordance between VRI diagnosis and treatment with VRI-directed antibiotics for at least seven days ranged from 56 to 89% (median: 72...
Postharvest Handling and Processing Sources of Microorganisms and Impact of Sanitizing Procedures

This chapter examines the conventional belief that high microbial populations in produce, intact or minimally processed, can be reduced to safe levels with disinfecting technology that is presently available. The concept of a highly efficacious disinfection strategy is supported by laboratory studies using various sanitizing agents and methods that have yielded impressive results, some even with reduction to undetectable levels. Warm (50°C) chlorine solutions delayed browning and reduced initial populations of several groups of microorganisms naturally occurring on iceberg lettuce but enhanced microbial growth during subsequent storage. The effectiveness of ozone gas for the inactivation of microorganisms on the surfaces of fruits and vegetables is influenced by concentration, exposure time, RH, temperature, microbial load, and surface properties of the commodity. When heat-treated apples were purposely injured and inoculated with pathogens, the postsanitation growth of microorganisms was greater. Microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria that are not usually affected by high CO2 levels tend to predominate when MAP is used, actually prolonging shelf life by producing compounds that can inhibit spoilage bacteria. A new potential treatment strategy focuses on antimicrobial substances produced by selected vegetables and microorganisms. The information captured in the chapter suggests that the efficacy of sanitizers depends on the type of produce, the microorganism present, and the application system. The popular misconception that postharvest treatments can function as killing steps for contaminated produce or as significant reducers of indigenous microbial populations is discussed in the chapter.
Pterosaurs: Natural History, Evolution, Anatomy

Pterosaurs, the first vertebrates to evolve powered flight, ruled the skies from the mid-Triassic until the end-Cretaceous. Remarkably, despite dozens of popular books on dinosaurs, Witton's Pteros...
Behavioral health outcomes among adults: associations with individual and community-level economic conditions

Objective:This study examined the relationship between state and local economic conditions and serious psychological distress, substance use disorders, and mental health service utilization among adults in the United States.Methods:Using data from 21,100 adults who responded to the 2008–2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a nationally representative survey of the U.S. civilian noninstitutionalized population living in households, the study used multivariate methods to examine associations between selected macroeconomic conditions and behavioral health outcomes.Results:Living in states in the top three quartiles for serious mortgage delinquency rate and in counties in the top three quartiles for unemployment rate was associated with a lower likelihood of using mental health services among individuals experiencing serious psychological distress (adjusted relative risk [ARR]=.54, .52, and .73, and ARR=.58, .62, and .71, respectively, versus quartile 1). Individual-level characteristics were the prim...
CLONAL VARIATION IN PARAMECIUM III. HETEROGENEITY WITHIN CLONES OF IDENTICAL SEROTYPES

Clones of genetically uniform paramecia differ in the extent to which they retain the antigenic type of a common ancestor. Some are faithful and are considered stable. Others are unstable. Apparently there are two kinds of "unstable" clones. One is composed of cells all of which tend to produce subclones with some cells which have transformed to new serotypes. Other "unstable" clones apparently are really composed of two or more kinds of cells, each of which tends to yield subclones which are made up almost exclusively of cells of one serotype, although some of these subclones are not of the original serotype. Support for the existence of such heterogeneous unstable clones is presented, and several possible mechanisms to account for their existence are discussed.
Evidence for sulphate-controlled phosphorus release from sediments of aquatic systems

SEDIMENTS of aquatic systems play a critical part in controlling phosphorus loading to the water column1. Because P loading is an important determinant of productivity in aquatic systems, there has been keen interest in variables that influence P release from sediments. In disagreement with present theories1,2 our data from 23 different aquatic systems indicate that sulphate concentration of waters is an extremely important variable controlling P release from sediments. The increased P release from sediments at higher sulphate concentrations may help to explain why primary production in freshwater systems (with relatively low sulphate concentrations) tends to be P limited3, whereas in many saline systems (with high sulphate concentrations) production is often P sufficient4. Further, our results indicate that anthropogenically induced changes from atmospheric S inputs could, over time, alter the P cycle of aquatic systems.
Tracking of moving objects in scenery using subspace projection using independent component analysis

A system is developed for tracking moving objects though natural scenery. A technique is presented for performing change detection on imagery to determine the difference between two images or a sequence of images. Form there an algorithm is presented to detect the presence of a new object and/or the deletion of objects. Then the application of a Variable Structure Interacting Multiple Model tracking filter is presented. The method of performing change detection is based upon the concept of image subspace projection. A set of basis image maps are formed when combined with a mixing matrix can recreate the original image. The subsequent images are then projected into the base image. The projected images is then subtracted from the original image to perform the change detection. Spatial Filtering is applied to increase the contrast between the change and the background then an adaptive filter is then applied to pass the locations of changes in the images into the tracking filter. Tracking is performed through the use of multiple motion models. The filter's motion models are adaptive added or deleted as required by the moving object's dynamics. The moving object's state is estimated through extended Kalman filtering.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Retinal Arteriovenous Anastomoses in the Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Syndrome

A 15-year-old black girl had acute bilateral uveitis and other features of the Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome. Several months after the onset of her illness, she developed acquired retinal arteriovenous anastomoses in both eyes. By using fluorescein angiography, we documented that the anastomoses were collateral vessels developing in areas of damaged retinal pigment epithelium and retinal capillaries.
Baryons as solitons and mass formulae

Abstract It is shown that the Wess-Zumino term gives the right quantum numbers for the baryons, which appear as solitons in current algebra lagrangians. In these models, the mass formulae for the baryons are derived.
A statistical investigation of feasible network plans with compatibility matrix

Abstract When a project network consists of activities that have many alternatives and pairwise compatibility relationships, the task of finding feasible project plans and then finding the optimal project plan is a difficult one. This paper employs compatibility matrix approach and derives statistical relationships for the estimation of the mean number of feasible alternative plans and the estimation of standard deviation of number of such plans using statistical sampling and simulation. The estimates are obtained as functions of parameters related to the configuration of compatibility matrices and are independent of specific problems. Many situations in practice are amenable to 'solution’ by the compatibility matrix approach. The method explained in this paper has been applied to real-world project planning problems. Capital budgeting, process planning, manufacturing and production policy are some of the other areas where the results obtained through this research will prove useful.
A large general purpose scattering chamber

An inexpensive charged-particle scattering chamber has been constructed from a large obsolete dry ice trap. A removable platform mounted on a linear bearing contributes to the chamber's versatility and convenience. The chamber's construction permits cooling of solid state detectors to improve resolution and to make possible the utilization of marginal detectors. Electrical motors are used to change beam defining apertures, targets and detector angles. No movable vacuum seals are used in this design.
Stability of ultrathin alumina layers on NiAl(110)

By observing with low-energy electron microscopy whether individual alumina islands grow or shrink for different substrate temperatures and ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ pressures, we determine the stability of thin oxide layers on the NiAl(110) surface. At each temperature, a well-defined ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ pressure exists where islands do not change in size. Yet we conclude that the oxide cannot be in thermodynamic equilibrium with ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ gas and NiAl bulk, because the ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ pressures needed to attain this state are 20 orders of magnitude higher than expected. We discuss what kinetic processes can lead to the observed steady state, where the ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ pressure needed for stability differs greatly from thermodynamic predictions.
Intensivist perceptions of family-centered rounds and its impact on physician comfort, staff involvement, teaching, and efficiency

Abstract Purpose Our goal was to examine intensivists' perception of comfort, staff satisfaction, teaching, and efficiency with family-centered rounds (FCR). Materials and methods Surveys were sent to intensivists at Emory University. Responses of physicians that participate in FCR were compared with those who do not. Survey questions were developed using a 5-point Likert scale with 1 representing a negative response and 5 being positive. Results Of 46 surveys sent, there were 31 responses (response rate, 67%). Seventeen responses were from adult intensivists and 14 from pediatric. Sixteen respondees (52%) participate in FCR, whereas 15 respondents (48%) do not. There is a significant difference in physician comfort with the practice with an average score of 4.4 + 1.0 for those who participate and 2.7 + 1.7 for those who do not ( P = .002). There is also a significant difference in the perception of the impact of FCR on staff. Those who participate feel that it has a significantly greater positive impact on staff's involvement during rounds with an average score of 3.6 + 1.2 vs an average score of 2.3 + 1.2 for those who do not practice FCR ( P = .003). Those who participate in FCR have significantly more positive perception on its impact on patient outcomes with an average score of 3.8 + 1.1 compared with an average score of 2.9 + 1.3 for those who do not participate in FCR ( P = .05). There are no significant differences in perceptions on teaching and efficiency among participants and nonparticipants in FCR. Conclusions Participation in FCR is associated with an increase in perceived physician comfort, positive impact on staff involvement, and positive impact on patient outcome. Concerns over teaching and efficiency remain.
In vitro labeling of solid tissues with tritiated thymidine for autoradiographic detection of S-phase nuclei.

In vitro measurement of the thymidine labeling index (TLI) of solid tissues requires hyperbaric oxygenation and is potentiated by blockade of thymidylate synthetase by 5-fluoro-2′ -deoxyuridine (FUdR) to favor uptake of tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR). Hyperbaric oxygenation can be achieved in a simple system through injection of oxygen into rubber-stoppered test tubes. Incubations are carried out in Hanks' balanced salt solution in a shaker bath at 37 C for 4 hours; an FUdR concentration of approximately 1 μM is optimal. Autoradiographic exposure for 1 week or less is sufficient for TLI measurements on human tissues. with 3 to 4 atmospheres oxygen tension, incorporation of 3H-TdR is sufficient for TLI measurement throughout slices of tissue cut 1 mm thick or less. Mincing of tissue is not necessary, and the anatomic continuity seen in ordinary histological preparations is preserved. A gradient of labeling intensity is present from the surface to the interior of the tissue, but sufficient intensity of labeli...
Comparison of linear reconstruction techniques for 3D DPDW imaging of absorption coefficient

In this paper we examine the performance of a number of linear techniques for reconstructing the 3-D distribution of absorption coefficient within a highly scattering medium using the diffuse photon density wave (DPDW) approximation. The simulation consists of a coplanar array of sources and detectors at the boundary of an infinite slab medium. The primary difficulty in the linear reconstruction of the 3D volume from a 2D array of measurement is that the forward matrix is both underdetermined and ill-conditioned.
Emergency Department Bedside Ultrasonographic Measurement of the Caval Index for Noninvasive Determination of Low Central Venous Pressure

Study objective Among adult emergency department (ED) patients undergoing central venous catheterization, we determine whether a greater than or equal to 50% decrease in inferior vena cava diameter is associated with a central venous pressure of less than 8 mm Hg. Methods Adult patients undergoing central venous catheterization were enrolled in a prospective, observational study. Inferior vena cava inspiratory and expiratory diameters were measured by 2-dimensional bedside ultrasonography. The caval index was calculated as the relative decrease in inferior vena cava diameter during 1 respiratory cycle. The correlation of central venous pressure and caval index was calculated. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of a caval index greater than or equal to 50% that was associated with a central venous pressure less than 8 mm Hg were estimated. Results Of 73 patients, the median age was 63 years and 60% were women. Mean time and fluid administered from ultrasonographic measurement to central venous pressure determination were 6.5 minutes and 45 mL, respectively. Of the 73 participants, 32% had a central venous pressure less than 8 mm Hg. The correlation between caval index and central venous pressure was –0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI] –0.82 to –0.63). The sensitivity of caval index greater than or equal to 50% to predict a central venous pressure less than 8 mm Hg was 91% (95% CI 71% to 99%), the specificity was 94% (95% CI 84% to 99%), the positive predictive value was 87% (95% CI 66% to 97%), and the negative predictive value was 96% (95% CI 86% to 99%). Conclusion Bedside ultrasonographic measurement of caval index greater than or equal to 50% is strongly associated with a low central venous pressure. Bedside measurements of caval index could be a useful noninvasive tool to determine central venous pressure during the initial evaluation of the ED patient.
International trade openness and gender gaps in Pakistani labor force participation rates over 57 years

The extent of openness to international trade may alter incentives differentially by gender for labor force participation, particularly in economies in which gender differentials in human capital investments such as schooling are large and in which norms about gender behaviors are strong. This paper uses historical census data since 1951 and two recent Labor Force Surveys to investigate the impact of international trade openness on gender differences in labor force participation rates in broad occupational categories in Pakistan. The method used controls for average gender differences in these occupational categories and the unobserved factors that affect male and female labor force participation rates equally. The estimates indicate that increased international trade significantly reduces the gap between male and female labor force participation on average across all occupations. However, if responses are allowed to vary across seven broad occupational categories, the estimates suggest that the significa...
The interfacial activity of steroid hormones and synthetic estrogens.

Abstract From measurements of interfacial tension, the interfacial concentrations at water-heptane interfaces have been determined for testosterone, progesterone, deoxycorticosterone, hydrocortisone, diethylstilbestrol and estriol. In all cases save that of estriol, the interface becomes saturated at concentrations in the water phase that range from 5 · 10 −7 (for diethylstilbestrol) to 2 · 10 −4 moles/l (for hydrocortisone). From the experimentally determined areas occupied by the molecules at the interface, it is concluded that testosterone, progesterone, deoxycorticosterone and diethylstilbestrol lie more or less flat in the interface, while hydrocortisone lies on edge. These orientations are those which would be expected from the structures of the compounds. The force-area curves at large forces correspond to condensed films, and at lower forces to imperfect gaseous films. The applicability of these results to other steroid hormones and synthetic estrogens is considered, and the biological implications are discussed.
Some behavioral aspects of retrograde amnesia produced by hypothermia

Abstract In order to determine whether retention deficits following deep body cooling were attributable to punishment effects, disinhibition of a conditioned emotional response (CER), or loss of discriminated avoidance, 6 groups of albino rats received a single passive avoidance training trial in a black-white chamber. The groups differed as to whether they received pre-trial injections of strychnine sulphate, shock for entry into the black compartment, and/or post-trial hypothermia treatments. Testing was conducted 24 hr later. Both the duration of CER and the latency to enter the black chamber were recorded. Rats subjected to hypothermia immediately after the training trial showed marked deficits in retention. Administration of strychnine prior to training further reduced retention in cooled animals but had no effect on performance of controls. Data from non-shocked groups demonstrated that the single hypothermic treatment was not punishing. Since none of the shocked groups differed in CER duration, the performance decrement obtained in rats receiving hypothermia does not appear to be based upon disruption of conditioned motor suppression in this situation. These data support the view that hypothermia, serving as a retrograde amnesic agent, acts primarily upon discriminated avoidance behavior.
Ultrasound-assisted hydrolysis and gas chromatography–mass spectrometric determination of phenolic compounds in cranberry products

An ultrasound-assisted hydrolysis and gas chromatography-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) method has been developed for determination of phenolics in cranberry products. Prior to GC-MS separation and characterisation, the phenolics in samples were hydrolysed by hydrochloric acid with ultrasound-assistance, extracted with ethyl acetate, and derivatised with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA)+1% trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) reagents. The application of ultrasonication significantly accelerated the acidic hydrolysation of the conjugated phenolics. A baseline separation of the 20 phenolics and internal standard was achieved in 25min. Standard calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 0.0-50μg/mL and detection limits were 0.06-0.70μg/mL. Twenty phenolics were identified in cranberry samples and all of them occurred mainly in conjugated forms. Of those, the benzoic acid, quercetin, and myricetin were most abundant phenolics. The total phenolics were 12.4mg/g in cranberry fruits, 9.1mg/mL in 100% cranberry juice, and 11.1mg/g in cranberry sauces, respectively.
Oxidation of a critical methionine modulates DNA binding of the Drosophila melanogaster high mobility group protein, HMG‐D

HMG-D is a major high mobility group chromosomal protein present during early embryogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. During overexpression and purification of HMG-D from E. coli, a key DNA binding residue, methionine 13, undergoes oxidation to methionine sulfoxide. Oxidation of this critical residue decreases the affinity of HMG-D for DNA by three-fold, altering the structure of the HMG-D-DNA complex without affecting the structure of the free protein. This work shows that minor modification of DNA intercalating residues may be used to fine tune the DNA binding affinity of HMG domain proteins.
Planimetrie analysis of color images using least-squares and related algorithms*

A least-squares approach to the planimetric analysis of color scenes is furnished. The technique involves parallel processing in that all image points are involved simultaneously at every step of the processing. It is assumed that each object in the color scene has a unique spectral (color) signature. The end result of the processing is a vector whose components are the areas covered by the different objects in the scene. The technique requires only a simple optical system and can be easily automated. Procedures for finding the signatures that minimize the error variance are investigated. The theory is illustrated with a laboratory example.
In vitro primary culture of embryonic cells from the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis

When embryonic cells of boll weevils, Anthonomus grandis, were grown in primary cultures, large aggregates of cells developed the first week, pulsing actions were strong, and multiplication occurred. Then for 4–7 weeks, the tissues grew unattached, formed large aggregates, and continued to pulse and enlarge. Characteristically, the tissues developed spherical, membranous outgrowths, and cells developed peripherally and became multilayered; possibly, they possess an interior membrane. These latter growths resembled midgut cells.
Measuring correlated-electron effects with low energy alkaline earth ion scattering

Abstract A system of many electrons can display emergent phenomena beyond what would be predicted from the behavior of individual electrons. A method for triggering correlated electron behavior is to introduce a spin impurity into a metal, which causes the free electrons to respond collectively. In the present work, the unpaired valence electron on singly charged alkaline earth ions is used to provide the spin impurity during low energy ion scattering experiments. Previous calculations have suggested that electron correlations would result in an anomalous temperature dependence of the ion neutralization probability. The neutralization of magnesium (Mg) scattered from polycrystalline gold (Au) shows little dependence on temperature. Scattered strontium (Sr) does, however, show a marked temperature dependence of the neutralization that provides clear evidence of electron correlations. The results are discussed in terms of the velocity of the outgoing projectiles.
Zooarchaeology and Modernity in Iceland

This paper follows the lead of the increasing numbers of scholars utilizing the methods and theory of environmental archaeology within historical archaeology. This paper addresses the issue of “modernity” in early modern Iceland through the analysis of faunal assemblages from historic sites in Iceland. It examines the idea of modernity through the ideas of commoditization of animals as well as the improvement of domestic animals as seen through these faunal assemblages. There are a number of possible faunal indications of processes associated with modernity in the existing historic assemblages of Iceland though at least some of these have deep roots in the medieval period. Examining the idea of modernity through the faunal assemblages of historic-period Iceland both help refine the idea of modernity as well as reveal the medieval roots of much of what we term “modern”.
Framing the corporate responsibility-reputation linkage: The case of Tata Motors in India

Abstract This study, focusing on the emerging economy context of one of India's largest automotive companies, Tata Motors, analyzes the thematic framing of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate reputation. Five CSR frames are shown: institutionalization, community development, modernization, mainstreaming, and nation-building. Reputation is framed via: heritage, nationbuilding, technological advancement, global footprint, and responsibility. The findings suggest how firms may better align their CSR efforts with regular business, and their larger public relations campaigns with wider social perceptions of their responsibilities.
Pancreas transplantation: experience at University of Texas, Houston.

Abstract Introduction Diabetes mellitus is a spectrum of diseases characterized by the absence of glycemic control and the development of secondary complications. Type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent) accounts for a minority of cases, but it usually presents in younger age groups. This disease significantly affects quality of life. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the cases of pancreas transplantation performed at University of Texas, Houston, from February 2008 to August 2009. All patients received immunosuppression induction with thymoglobulin (1.5 mg/kg). We used 3 drugs for maintenance: tacrolimus, mycophenolic acid, and prednisone. All patients received cytomegalovirus prophylaxis. Results We transplanted 54 organs in 29 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The mean patient age was 42 years. Patients had diabetes mellitus type 1 for an average of 28.82 years and were on dialysis for an average of 2 years. Nineteen patients were male (65%). Complications ensued in 68% of cases (20 patients), 9 of which required surgical exploration (31%). We lost 3 pancreatic allografts. Discussion Pancreas transplant receipients constitute a unique population with a high risk of complications in the acute setting. During the first 3 months after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation the relative mortality risk is increased but after a year it has clear advantage over diabetic patients on dialysis waiting for a transplant. To date, 26 patients have functional pancreatic allografts and 29 are dialysis-free. Pancreas transplantation is a challenging procedure. Surgeons must be prepared to aggressively manage the possible complications.
Deposition and properties of high-velocity-oxygen-fuel and plasma-sprayed Mo-Mo 2 C composite coatings

Molybdenum thermal-spray coatings, dispersion strengthened by molybdenum oxides and molybdenum carbides, play an important role in industrial tribological applications. Traditionally, they have been prepared by plasma and wire flame spraying. High porosity and lower cohesion strength limit their application in situations where both galling and abrasion wear is involved. In this study, high-velocity-oxygen-fuel (HVOF) deposition of molybdenum and molybdenum carbide coatings was attempted. Deposition was achieved for all powders used. Composition, microstructure, mechanical, and wear properties of the HVOF synthesized coatings were evaluated and compared with plasma-sprayed counterparts. The HVOF coatings possessed a very good abrasion resistance, whereas plasma deposits performed better in dry sliding tests. Measurements showed a close relationship between the coating surface hardness and its abrasion resistance. Results also suggested correlation between molybdenum carbide distribution in the molybdenum matrix and the sliding friction response of Mo-Mo2C coatings.
The trouble with modernity: gender and the remaking of social theory

There is continued frustration over the failure of established social theory to be altered despite dramatic developments in women's lives and feminist theory. I argue that this process has been blocked by an overly static conception of society and gender itself. Close examination of the actual circumstances of African American and white women in the nineteenth- and twentieth-century United States reveals the relationship between gender and economic and political development has been a dynamic historical one, culminating recently in a radical transformation of women's lives and work. I develop the implications of this argument for older analytic divisions between work and home, or productive and reproductive labor, and for recent shifts in theory. Coherent grasp of the events currently altering women's lives provides a clear way to join gender with earlier theoretical concerns, as another moment of social transformation brought about by a still-unfolding process of economic and political development. Language: en
Using Blogs to Create Cybernetic Space Examples from People of Indian Origin

This article examines the phenomenon of blogging as a way to create a cybernetic space that is defined by the digital/virtual space of the blog discourse and the real space where the blogger is loc...
Surgical decompression and coil removal for the recovery of vision after coiling and proximal occlusion of a clinoidal segment aneurysm: technical case report.

Objective We present the case of a patient with continued deterioration of vision after endovascular treatment of an unruptured clinoidal segment aneurysm. In conjunction with a review of the literature, the findings in this case highlight the need for further refinements in our understanding of pathophysiological changes induced by coiling of cerebral aneurysms, especially those in aneurysms producing signs and symptoms relating to mass effect. Clinical presentation The patient is a 45-year-old man who presented with progressive vision loss. Imaging studies revealed a large, clinoidal segment aneurysm. The patient continued to experience progressive vision loss despite treatment with endovascular coiling, proximal occlusion, and high-dose steroid medication. Intervention The patient underwent a craniotomy for decompression of the optic nerve and for salvage of vision. Clipping of the distal vessel was performed, and the coil mass was removed. The patient experienced marked improvement of central vision after the surgical procedure. Conclusion Although endovascular treatment of aneurysms protects most patients from aneurysm rupture, this case illustrates the fact that coiling, followed by proximal occlusion, might fail to alleviate symptoms related to mass effect. Our experience in this case suggests that early surgical decompression may be indicated for patients presenting with progressive visual deterioration.
Predictors of HPV vaccine acceptability: A theory-informed, systematic review

Abstract Objective. To inform future human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programs, we systematically reviewed studies of HPV-related beliefs and HPV vaccine acceptability, organizing the findings using health behavior theory and cervical cancer risk factors. Methods. We searched Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO from 1995 to January, 2007 for studies of HPV beliefs and HPV vaccine acceptability among adolescents, young adults, and parents of adolescents in the United States. Results. We identified 28 studies. Most were small, cross-sectional studies of parents and adults. Most parents reacted positively to the possibility of vaccinating their daughters against HPV. Vaccination acceptability was higher when people believed the vaccine was effective, a physician would recommend it, and HPV infection was likely. Cost and, for 6% to 12% of parents, concerns that vaccination would promote adolescent sexual behavior were barriers to vaccination. African American, Hispanic, and white respondents were equally accepting of the HPV vaccine. Parents with lower levels of education reported higher vaccine acceptability. Many studies inadequately reported on other variables associated with cervical cancer mortality. Conclusions. HPV vaccine programs in the United States should emphasize high vaccine effectiveness, the high likelihood of HPV infection, and physicians' recommendations, and address barriers to vaccination.
MO‐D‐105‐07: Results of Applying FMEA and Fault Tree Analysis to the Online Incident Reporting Database

Purpose: As part of the continuous quality of care improvement, an internal online database for processing reported incidents was established. In 3 years, 710 incidents were reported by 5 clinics. We have ranked the fault trees of the reported incidents using the AAPM report TG‐100 Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) tools Methods: Risk Probability Number (RPN) generated as a Result of applying FMEA is based on the severity, probability of occurrence and probability of going undetected. The reports were sorted in two categories. Potentially affecting dose delivery, e.g. incorrect setup instructions; and deviations from an established workflow defined by policies and procedures (PP however, due to low occurrence only 4 instances, related to bolus placement, reached the RPN above 200. Review of current P&P reduced the RPN from 270 to 9. Periodic review, introduction of the new or revising the existing P&P had a dual effect: drop in dose‐affecting incidents and increased reporting of process deviations Conclusion: Analysis of reported incidents and review by the departmental QA committee is an essential part of any QA program. By defining the fault trees and applying FMEA to the reported incidents, we were able to reduce the RPN from an average of 150 for dose related incidents to 9, and for process variations from 295 to 28 on average. Event‐triggered revising of P&Ps and periodic review with staff of the existing P&P is an effective tool in incident reduction
Towards optimal surgical outcomes

Until relatively recently, quality in healthcare was difficult both to define and measure. Now that this is possible, healthcare providers must quickly adopt information technology to facilitate both the assessment of performance and improvement. Such improvements require recognition of the role of systems of care and the need to change these systems in order to improve performance. In the coming years, the tension between the pressure for quality improvement and the pressure for cost-containment is likely to increase.
Nonequilibrium structure during phase separation.

To establish the nature of the early stage structures that occur during phase separation, we studied solutions of a nonionic surfactant micellar solution (C/sub 12/E/sub 6/ in D/sub 2/O). We report the existence of long-lived nonequilibrium structures during shallow quenches along the critical isochore. The power-law scattering profile of these structures is consistent with ramified clusters with a fractal dimension D = 1.6 +- 0.1.
PROLONGED MAINTAINED REMISSIONS OF ADULT ACUTE NON-LYMPHOCYTIC LEUKAEMIA

Maintenance chemotherapy consisting of weekly oral 6-thioguanine and intramuscular cytosine arabinoside was administered to 24 adult patients with acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia in complete remission. The median duration of complete remission was 16-5 months, with 9 patients (38%) still in their first remission after 18--56 months. 33% of the patients have been in continuous remission for over 2 yr, 21% for over 3 yr, and 12-5% for over 4 yr. Median survival so far is 22-5 months. This maintenance regimen is well tolerated, is easily administered on an outpatient basis, and produces substantial numbers of long-term remissions.
Sperm aggregations in the spermatheca of female desmognathine salamanders (Amphibia: Urodela: Plethodontidae)

The alignment of sperm in a cloacal sperm storage gland, the spermatheca, was studied in female desmognathine salamanders by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Females representing nine species and collected in spring, late summer, and fall in the southern Appalachian Mountains contained abundant sperm in their spermathecae. The spermatheca is a compound tubuloalveolar gland connected by a single common tube to the middorsal wall of the cloaca. Sperm enter the common tube in small groups aligned in parallel along their axes, and continue in a straight course until encountering divisions of the common tube (neck tubules) or luminal borders of distal bulbs, which can act as barriers. Sperm may form tangles, in which small clusters retain their mutual alignment, at the branches of the neck tubules from the common tube, or in the lumen of the distal bulbs, where subsequent waves of sperm collide with sperm already present. The nuclei of some sperm from the initial group to encounter the walls of the distal bulbs appear to become embedded in secretory material on the luminal border or in the apical cytoplasm of the spermathecal epithelial cells. We propose that these sperm become trapped in the spermatheca and are ultimately degraded. J. Morphol. 238:143-155, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Motion vector dependent filter strength computation for high performance H.264 de-blocking loop filter

Block based video codec inevitably induce blocking artifacts due to discrete quantization approach. Blocking artifacts impairs subjective picture quality and coding efficiency. De-blocking loop filter reduces visually objectionable artifacts associated with the coding of macroblocks (MB) and their constituent sub-blocks. Filter operation is adaptive in nature and strength of filter (strong/weak) depends on quantum of introduced blocking artifact, measured through Boundary strength (BS). Out of 5 BS values (0,1,2,3,4), computation cost of motion vector (MV) and reference picture dependent BS=1 and BS=0 is in range of 21- 12 cycles for hardware based solutions. To meet 4k@60 fps performance LPF needs to finish each mb filter in 100 cycles and BS=1/0 computation will take minimum 12% of cycle budget. The paper proposes a novel approach to use hardware accelerator of entropy coding (ECD) to pre-calculate BS=1/0 value for LPF. The proposed scheme results in significant silicon area savings as well as reduction in processing cycles. The approach enables reaching performance goal of 4K@60 fps in TI's video engine (IVAHD2).
Case Study: Missed Diagnosis and Mistreatment of Unrecognized Comorbid Graves Disease

Comorbid medical conditions are known to complicate the course and treatment of psychiatric disorders. This case study provides the first published report of Graves disease exacerbating the symptoms of Tourette's disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The lack of diagnosis of the Graves disease compromised the efficacy of the treatment of Tourette's disorder and ADHD. This case study supports the need to the consider increased risk of a second immunoendocrinological disorder in the presence of diabetes mellitus type I, one of the several disorders that comprise the syndrome of polyglandular autoimmune endocrinopathy type II.
High Tech Counseling.

This article includes a discussion of technology's use in counseling at the beginning of the new millennium. It contains reviews and implications of several articles that appeared in the first issue of the Journal of Technology in Counseling and some recent technology-related developments by the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision and the American Counseling Association.
Association of change in depression and anxiety symptoms with functional outcomes in pulmonary rehabilitation patients

Abstract Objective Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has emerged over the last decade as an essential component of an integrated approach to managing patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We sought to examine how depression and anxiety symptom changes relate to disease-specific quality of life outcomes following PR. Methods We performed a cohort study of 81 patients with COPD who completed PR at a Veterans Administration Medical Center. Pulmonary rehabilitation consisted of supervised exercise training and education twice weekly for 8 weeks. Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventories (BDI and BAI) assessed symptom burden at baseline and completion of PR. We measured change in disease-specific quality of life using the dyspnea, mastery, emotion and fatigue domains of the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire Self-Reported (CRQ-SR) from baseline to completion of PR. Results Participants were 69.8±9.1 years old and all male. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) was 1.23±0.39 L. The CRQ-SR scores improved significantly: dyspnea (P Conclusion Addressing anxiety symptoms in PR patients may be indicated because disease-specific quality of life improvement appears to be associated with mood.
Elevated biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction/activation at ICU admission are associated with sepsis development

Widespread endothelial activation and dysfunction often precede clinical sepsis. Several endothelium-related molecules have been investigated as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and/or prognosis of sepsis, providing different results depending on study designs. Such factors include endothelial adhesion molecules like E- and P-selectin, and the intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular endothelial cadherin, growth factors such as Angiopoietin-1 and -2 and vascular endothelial growth factor, as well as von Willebrand factor antigen. We sought to investigate whether circulating biomarkers of endothelial activation/dysfunction measured at ICU admission are associated with subsequent sepsis development. Eighty-nine critically-ill patients admitted to a general ICU who met no sepsis criteria were studied. Plasma or serum levels of the above-mentioned endothelium-derived molecules were measured during the first 24h post ICU; acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores, age, sex, diagnostic category, and circulating procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were additionally measured or recorded. Forty-five patients subsequently became septic and 44 did not. Soluble (s) E- and P-selectin levels, circulating PCT, SOFA score and diagnostic category were significantly different between the two groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis associated elevated sE- and sP-selectin levels and SOFA with an increased risk of developing sepsis, while multiple Cox regression analysis identified sE- and sP-selectin levels as the only parameters related to sepsis appearance with time [RR=1.026, 95%CI=1.008-1.045, p=0.005; RR=1.005 (by 10 units), 95%CI=1.000-1.010, p=0.034, respectively]. When trauma patients were independently analyzed, multiple Cox regression analysis revealed sE-selectin to be the only molecule associated with sepsis development with time (RR=1.041, 95%CI: 1.019-1.065; p<0.001). In conclusion, in our cohort of initially non-septic critically-ill patients, high levels of the circulating endothelial adhesion molecules E- and P-selectin, measured at ICU admission, appear to be associated with sepsis development in time.
The Rebound of Private Zoning: Property Rights and Local Governance in Urban Land Use

NIMBY and regulatory takings are two well-known phenomena associated with land-use change in US cities. I claim that both are manifestations of what economists refer to as a ‘hold-up problem’ and analyze how fast-growing private zoning, namely the ground-lease system and common interest developments, have evolved to respond to these problems. My argument is based on two spatial facts: the consumption of local collective goods is bundled with land and property; property owners have only limited ex post mobility. By comparing five different combinations of property rights and land use control, I submit that private zoning is most efficient in relieving the agency problem in urban land use. Policy implications of NIMBY and equity issues of private zoning are also discussed.
Clinical aspects and predictors of mortality of Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia in a cohort of critically ill patients

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) pneumonia (PN) represents a serious complication of long-term hospitalization [1]. The aim of our study is to analyze the clinical characteristics and predictors of mortality of PAPN in critically ill patients.
WormSizer: High-throughput Analysis of Nematode Size and Shape

The fundamental phenotypes of growth rate, size and morphology are the result of complex interactions between genotype and environment. We developed a high-throughput software application, WormSizer, which computes size and shape of nematodes from brightfield images. Existing methods for estimating volume either coarsely model the nematode as a cylinder or assume the worm shape or opacity is invariant. Our estimate is more robust to changes in morphology or optical density as it only assumes radial symmetry. This open source software is written as a plugin for the well-known image-processing framework Fiji/ImageJ. It may therefore be extended easily. We evaluated the technical performance of this framework, and we used it to analyze growth and shape of several canonical Caenorhabditis elegans mutants in a developmental time series. We confirm quantitatively that a Dumpy (Dpy) mutant is short and fat and that a Long (Lon) mutant is long and thin. We show that daf-2 insulin-like receptor mutants are larger than wild-type upon hatching but grow slow, and WormSizer can distinguish dauer larvae from normal larvae. We also show that a Small (Sma) mutant is actually smaller than wild-type at all stages of larval development. WormSizer works with Uncoordinated (Unc) and Roller (Rol) mutants as well, indicating that it can be used with mutants despite behavioral phenotypes. We used our complete data set to perform a power analysis, giving users a sense of how many images are needed to detect different effect sizes. Our analysis confirms and extends on existing phenotypic characterization of well-characterized mutants, demonstrating the utility and robustness of WormSizer.