cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fourth to Sixth Grade Teachers’ Invented Real World Problems and Pictorial Representations for Fraction Division

Teaching fraction operations for conceptual understanding is a challenging task. For the topic of fraction division especially, teachers need support because teachers find this difficult to teach and elementary and middle school students struggle to learn this concept. Well-structured professional development can assist teachers in exploring their own understanding as well as how to incorporate multiple representations in their instruction. This naturalistic inquiry study investigated fourth to sixth grade teachers’ invented real-world problems and pictorial representations for fraction division. The teachers completed a written assessment focused on conceptual understanding of fraction operations through multiple representations at the beginning and conclusion of a weeklong professional development experience. The questions on the assessment were taken or modified from prior research studies. The results in this paper focus specifically on a task in which the teachers had to develop a real world story problem for 2½ ÷ ¾ and solve the problem by drawing a pictorial representation. The teachers showed statistically significant improvement on developing appropriate real-world problems and using pictorial representations to solve their problems. Implications for teachers’ usage of multiple representations are discussed along with needed structures for professional development targeted on fractions.
Generalized Hellinger metric and Audenaert's in-betweenness

Abstract Let σ and τ be Kubo-Ando means [1] . In this article we consider the in-betweenness property [2] for τ with respect to the generalized Hellinger metric induced by σ. That is, we show that when d σ represents the generalized Hellinger metric corresponding to σ, d σ ( A , A τ B ) ≤ d σ ( A , B ) .
A Critical Discourse Analysis of Haiti Earthquake Recovery in New York Times articles

The social constructions of the media after the 2010 Haiti earthquake arguably influenced disaster recovery, especially how and what projects were conceived, implemented, and evaluated. In this study of New York Times articles, we sought to learn how Haitians and foreign actors who are engaged in recovery are portrayed in print media. Our findings suggest the presence of hegemonic, disempowering discourse through themes that emphasize the expertise of outsiders and the proliferation of disaster capitalism. A counter-hegemonic, empowering discourse is evident through the acknowledgement of post-colonialist realities and the participation of Haitians in recovery. We discuss the meaning of these findings for social welfare policies, such as those set forth by the United States Agency on International Development (USAID), as well as social work practice and education.
Unpacking Medical Students’ Mixed Engagement in Health Systems Science Education

Phenomenon: Medical education is better aligning with the needs of health systems. Health systems science competencies, such as high-value care, population health, and systems thinking, are increasingly being integrated into curricula, but not without challenges. One challenge is mixed receptivity by students, the underlying reasons of which have not been extensively explored. In this qualitative study, we explored the research question: "How do students perceive health systems science curricula across all four years, and how do such perceptions inform the reasons for mixed quality ratings?" Approach: Following large-scale health systems science curricular changes in their medical school, we used students' open-ended comments obtained from course evaluations related to 1st-, 2nd-, and 4th-year courses and performed a qualitative thematic analysis to explore students' perceptions. We identified themes, synthesized findings into a conceptual figure, and agreed upon results and quotations. Findings: Five themes were identified: (1) perceived importance and relevance of health systems science education, (2) tension between traditional and evolving health systems science-related professional identity, (3) dissatisfaction with redundancy of topics, (4) competition with basic and clinical science curricula, and, (5) preference for discrete, usable, testable facts over complexity and uncertainty. The relationship between themes is described along a continuum of competing agendas between students' traditional mindset (which focuses on basic/clinical science) and an emerging medical education approach (which focuses on basic, clinical, and health systems science). Insights: Health systems science education can be viewed by learners as peripheral to their future practice and not aligned with a professional identity that places emphasis on basic and clinical science topics. For some students, this traditional identity limits engagement in health systems science curricula. If health systems science is to achieve its full potential in medical education, further work is required to explore the adoption of new perspectives by students and create activities to accelerate the process.
Inter- and intra-regional variation in intonation: An analysis of rising pitch accents and rootedness

Regional linguistic variation is a widely known characteristic of American English, with the American South as one of the many foci. However, in much of this literature, Appalachia is lumped together with other Southern varieties. Further, the vast sociolinguistic literature has documented intra-regional variation along socio-indexical lines. However, most variation studies have focused on vocalic variation at the expense of other sources of variation, which may have different patterns and meanings. The present study was designed to explore intonational variation in conversational speech in two varieties of American English: Appalachian and Southern. Additionally, the intra-regional variation in intonation present in Appalachian English was explored considering the rootedness (local place-based attachment) of speakers. The results revealed significant effects of regional dialect on both the quantitative and qualitative realization of pitch accent. Further, intra-regional variation was significantly impacted by socio-indexical aspects, including rootedness, of individual speakers. The findings from this study demonstrate that both region and socio-indexical features are expressed intonationally and also provide motivation for additional exploration of intonational variation across and within the regional varieties of American English.
The Price of Safety: The Evolution of Municipal Bond Insurance Value

Economic theory predicts that bond insurance lowers issuers’ financing costs by resolving asymmetric information and mitigating credit risk. With comprehensive data over the last 36 years, we find increasingly diminished empirical support for these models. The value of insurance in resolving asymmetric information beyond that resolved by credit ratings and other observable characteristics is economically minimal. The average gross value of insurance ranges 4 to 14 bps when bond insurers offer Aaa-rated coverage, with the value of insurance increasing in market competition. However, this gross value becomes insignificant after 2008 when Aaa-rated insurance no longer exists due to widespread downgrades and bankruptcies of bond insurers. Evidence suggests that the lack of insurance benefit in the post-crisis period is likely attributable to the deteriorated creditworthiness of insurance companies. Examining non-interest saving explanations for the continued use of insurance in the post-Aaa insurance market, we find evidence that issuers purchase insurance out of habit (especially those with low governance quality) and for the convenience it affords in a default event, but no evidence that insurance improves secondary market liquidity.
Delivery system can vary ventilatory parameters across multiple patients from a single source of mechanical ventilation.

BACKGROUND: Current limitations in the supply of ventilators during the Covid19 pandemic have limited respiratory support for patients with respiratory failure. Split ventilation allows a single ventilator to be used for more than one patient but is not practicable due to requirements for matched patient settings, risks of cross-contamination, harmful interference between patients and the inability to individualize ventilator support parameters. We hypothesized that a system could be developed to circumvent these limitations. METHODS AND FINDINGS: A novel delivery system was developed to allow individualized peak inspiratory pressure settings and PEEP using a pressure regulatory valve, developed de novo, and an inline PEEP 'booster'. One-way valves, filters, monitoring ports and wye splitters were assembled in-line to complete the system and achieve the design targets. This system was then tested to see if previously described limitations could be addressed. The system was investigated in mechanical and animal trials (ultimately with a pig and sheep concurrently ventilated from the same ventilator). The system demonstrated the ability to provide ventilation across clinically relevant scenarios including circuit occlusion, unmatched physiology, and a surgical procedure, while allowing significantly different pressures to be safely delivered to each animal for individualized support. CONCLUSIONS: In settings of limited ventilator availability, systems can be developed to allow increased delivery of ventilator support to patients. This enables more rapid deployment of ventilator capacity under constraints of time, space and financial cost. These systems can be smaller, lighter, more readily stored and more rapidly deployable than ventilators. However, optimizing ventilator support for patients with individualized ventilation parameters will still be dependent upon ease of use and the availability of medical personnel.
Plasma Metabolites in Early Sepsis Identify Distinct Clusters Defined by Plasma Lipids.

Author(s): Rogers, Angela J; Leligdowicz, Aleksandra; Contrepois, Kevin; Jauregui, Alejandra; Vessel, Kathryn; Deiss, Thomas J; Belzer, Annika; Liu, Tom; Lippi, Matthew; Ke, Serena; Ross, Erin; Zhou, Hanjing; Hendrickson, Carolyn; Gomez, Antonio; Sinha, Pratik; Kangelaris, Kirsten N; Liu, Kathleen D; Calfee, Carolyn S; Matthay, Michael A | Abstract: Unbiased global metabolomic profiling has not been used to identify distinct subclasses in patients with early sepsis and sepsis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome. In this study, we examined whether the plasma metabolome reflects systemic illness in early sepsis and in acute respiratory distress syndrome.DesignPlasma metabolites were measured in subjects with early sepsis.SettingPatients were admitted from the emergency department to the ICU in a plasma sample collected within 24 hours of ICU admission. Metabolic profiling of 970 metabolites was performed by Metabolon (Durham, NC). Hierarchical clustering and partial least squares discriminant clustering were used to identify distinct clusters among patients with early sepsis and sepsis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome.InterventionsNone.Measurements and main resultsAmong critically ill patients with early sepsis (n = 197), three metabolically distinct subgroups were identified, with metabolic subtype driven by plasma lipids. Group 1, with 45 subjects (23% of cohort), had increased 60-day mortality (odds ratio, 2; 95% CI, 0.99-4.0; p = 0.04 for group 1 vs all others). This group also had higher rates of vasopressor-dependent shock, acute kidney injury, and met Berlin acute respiratory distress syndrome criteria more often (all p l 0.05). Conversely, metabolic group 3, with 76 subjects (39% of cohort), had the lowest risk of 60-day mortality (odds ratio, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.22-0.86; p = 0.01) and lower rates of organ dysfunction as reflected in a lower Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (p l 0.001). In contrast, global metabolomic profiling did not separate patient with early sepsis with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (n = 78) from those with sepsis without acute respiratory distress syndrome (n = 75).ConclusionsPlasma metabolomic profiling in patients with early sepsis identified three metabolically distinct groups that were characterized by different plasma lipid profiles, distinct clinical phenotypes, and 60-day mortality. Plasma metabolites did not distinguish patients with early sepsis who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome from those who did not.
Glomus Jugulare and Carotid Body Tumors

Carotid body tumors and glomus jugulare tumors are the most common paragangliomas that occur in the head and neck. Many cases have been reported in the pediatric population. They are most likely benign. These tumors are usually slow growing. The most common presentation of carotid body tumors is an asymptomatic neck mass. Glomus Jugulare tumors usually present with pulsatile tinnitus and hearing loss. Symptoms related to cranial nerve involvement may be seen with both tumors. Paragangliomas that secrete catecholamines seem to occur more commonly in children. Jugulotympanic paragangliomas might be masked in children by symptoms of recurrent otitis media. Patients with suspected functional tumors should undergo biochemical testing and scintigraphy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic modality of head and neck paragangliomas in children. Biopsy of the mass should be avoided. Surgical resection is the main treatment of these tumors in young patients and early resection should be performed. Surgical morbidity is related to compromise of neurovascular structures, most commonly cranial nerve injury. Radiation therapy is another treatment option. The long term tumor control after resection is high and tumor recurrence is low.
Surgical treatment of anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss with the Latarjet procedure in active-duty military service members.

Abstract Introduction The arthroscopic Bankart repair in the setting of glenoid bone loss has high rates of failure. In patients with anterior glenoid bone loss, the Latarjet provides glenohumeral stability through restoration of the glenoid bone, the conjoint tendon acting as a sling on the subscapularis, and anterior capsulolabral repair. Active-Duty military personnel are at high risk for glenohumeral instability and have been equated to the contact athlete; most are young, male and engage in contact sports. The purpose of this study is to assess the return to full-duty rates in Active-Duty military personnel following the Latarjet for anterior glenohumeral instability with glenoid bone loss. Methods A retrospective review of all glenohumeral instability procedures were reviewed at a tertiary training hospital from June 2014 of June 2019. The patient population consisted of Active-Duty military personnel with glenoid bone loss and anterior glenohumeral instability, who were treated with a Latarjet. The primary outcome was return to full-duty status. Results There were 50 patients identified for the study. Four patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 46/50 (92.0%) patients eligible for this study. The average age at the time of the index procedure was 23.1 years. There average percent bone loss was 18.4%. Forty-one patients (89.1%) were able to return to full-duty status. Four patients (8.7%) sustained a recurrent dislocation following the Latarjet; all four dislocations occurred during a combat deployment. Four patients (8.7%) reported episodes of subluxation without dislocation. Forty-one patients (89.1%) reported that their shoulders felt stable and we found an average return to full duty at 5.3 months Conclusion In our Active-Duty military cohort, we found an 8.7% rate of recurrent instability after a Latarjet procedure, and 41 patients (89.1%) were able to return to full-duty status. In conclusion, the Latarjet procedure in the Active-Duty military population with anterior glenoid bone loss resulted in a high rate of return to duty, excellent functional outcomes, low rate of recurrent instability, and a low overall complication rate.
Critically Ill Neurologic Patients During The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Short Communication

Purpose We aimed to evaluate utilization of inpatient hospital and critical care services among critically ill neurologic patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. We hypothesized, based on prior observations among ischemic stroke patients, that there would be significant decline in critically ill neurologic patients presenting to hospitals during the pandemic which may impact outcomes. Methods We used TriNetX, a large research network, collecting real-time electronic medical records data. We extracted data on utilization of critical care and hospital inpatient services among cohorts of patients with common neurocritical conditions between January-June 2020 and compared it to data from similar time-frames in previous years. We also compared clinical outcomes, comprising need for intubation and 30-day mortality, among these cohorts. Results We found a 28.1% reduction in intensive care unit (ICU) admissions with critical neurologic illnesses in 2020 when compared to 2019 (8568 vs. 11,917 patients, p ​< ​0.0001) and a 34.4% reduction compared to 2018 (8568 vs. 13,064 patients, p ​< ​0.0001). However, there was no statistically significant difference in mortality (2020: 12.2 vs. 2019: 12.4%; p ​= ​0.7; vs. 2018: 12.6%; p ​= ​0.62) or intubation rates across the years among patients using critical care services. There was 1% increase in mortality among non-ICU patients with similar diagnoses in 2020 compared to previous years (2020: 3.9% vs. 2019: 2.9% vs. 2018: 3.1%; p ​< ​0.0001, p ​= ​0.0001), but no difference in intubation rates. Conclusion There was a significant reduction in hospital and ICU admissions among patients with acute neurologic emergencies in 2020, after onset of COVID-19 pandemic, compared to previous years. While we did not find a significant difference in mortality among patients admitted to the ICU, there was slightly higher mortality among non-ICU patients with same diagnoses in 2020 compared to previous years. Prospective evaluation and further investigation into the reasons for these trends is needed.
The Influence of the Agency Environment on Clinical Practice

In an in-depth, exptoaatoy sudy oj their petception of treatment in a famity ZeAvice agency, it wa6 found that clients stre4sed the impact o6 the agency', sociat and phyzicat envikonment on the hetping ptoces and it6 outcome. Workers, in contta t, took the enuinonment 6o& granted o had littte to say about it. Thi4 papeA di6cu46ez the findings and zeected practice impti~caton4. It has long been recognized that an agency's physical and social environment influences the nature and quality of services provided by its staff. Social work theorists with diverse orientations to practice have stressed that the agency setting should be viewed as an important part of the therapeutic process (cf. Hollis, 1972; Perlman, 1957; and Smalley, 1967). However, the Adapted from Chapter 10 of Anthony N. Maluccio, Learning from Clients: Interpersonal Helping as Viewed by Clients and Social Workers, copyright 1979 by The Free Press, A Division of Macmillan Publishing Company, Inc. By permission of the publisher.
Abstract 280: Association of Bystander CPR Rates with County-Level Median Household Income in Pennsylvania

Background: Each year, >300,000 people suffer from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in the U.S. Studies have shown that bystander CPR (BCPR) can greatly increase a victim’s chance of survival, yet the frequency of BCPR may vary as a byproduct of various demographic factors. Over 10,000 OHCAs occur in Pennsylvania each year across 67 counties. Objective: We sought to determine the association of bystander CPR rate with county-level median household income, as well as related factors, such as education level, persons below poverty status, and population density. Methods: Data were obtained from the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) for Pennsylvania from 1/2012-12/2013 to determine rate of BCPR and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) by county. Demographic information regarding education level, median household income and population density were obtained from 2010 U.S. Census data. Counties were grouped into quartiles by lowest to highest rates of BCPR. Results from the lowest-performing were compared to the highest-performing quartile, with statistical analysis using STATA v11 (StataCorp, College Station, Texas). Results: A total of 7137 cases were included distributed across 47 counties. Mean age of patients was 63.7 years, 40.1% were female, and VF/VT was the initial rhythm in 19.7%. Median BCPR rate for the lowest-performing quartile was 7% (IQR 0%-26.5%). Median BCPR rate for the highest-performing quartile was 50.4% (IQR 46.95%-56%). Median ROSC rate for the lowest-performing quartile was 1.5% (IQR 0%-20%). Median ROSC rate for the highest-performing quartile was 23.3% (IQR 20.8%-33.3%). Median household income in the lowest-performing quartile was significantly lower than in the highest-performing quartile ($43611 ± $5038 v $50225 ± $6661, p = 0.023). Education level, persons below poverty status, and population density were not shown to have a significant association with BCPR rate. BCPR rate was positively associated with ROSC rate (p=0.001). Conclusions: BCPR rates are significantly higher in counties with higher median household income. Higher BCPR rates are associated with higher rates of ROSC. These findings have important implications for statewide public health efforts to improve arrest survival.
Specificity determinants for bacteriophage λ DNA replication

Abstract Replication of bacteriophage λ DNA depends upon RNA synthesis near the origin of replication (“transcriptional activation”). Must this transcription involve any of the essential components of the origin control region, ori ? We have described previously ri c mutations that activate the replication origin when the normal transcription of the region is repressed. These mutations create new promoters for the initiation of RNA synthesis. We now show by genetic mapping and transcription in vitro that two of these ri c promoters lie outside of and direct transcription away from ori . The new startpoint for RNA synthesis in the mutant λri c 5 b lies at least 95 base-pairs from all known components of the origin control region. In the ri c derivatives of λ, the normal replication control elements, including ori , remain essential for replication. Furthermore, the specificity of the interaction between the initiator protein encoded by λ gene O and a target site in ori is retained. We conclude that the requirement for transcriptional activation may be spatially uncoupled by at least 95 base-pairs from the specific components of ori . In an Appendix to this paper, D. D. Moore and F. R. Blattner present a nucleotide sequence analysis of the mutations of λri c 5 b . The sequence changes are consistent with the startpoint of transcription observed in vitro and with known features of promoter structure.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Agricultural Drought in Sri Lanka: 1881-2010

A spatiotemporal analysis of two well-known agricultural drought indices, the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) and the Standardized Precipitation Index at a 9-month scale (SPI-9), is presented for Sri Lanka. The analysis was conducted based on monthly precipitation and temperature data from January 1881 to December 2010 using 13 stations distributed across the three climatic zones of the country. Principal component analysis shows that the first two principal components of PDSI and SPI-9 are spatially comparable and could physically represent the two main monsoons. A wavelet analysis of these principal components' scores for both indices indicates a stronger association between the Northeastern monsoon and El-Nino in recent decades. Correlation analysis with agricultural metrics suggests that different indices might be appropriate for each of the climatic zones in Sri Lanka. PDSI correlated best with the intermediate zone districts; SPI-9 correlated best with the dry zone districts; but neither index correlated well with the wet zone districts.
Constraints on the Expansion of the Global Food Supply

The human race now appears to be getting close to the limits of global food productive capacity based on present technologies. Substantial damage already has been done to the biological and physical systems that we depend on for food production. This damage is continuing and in some areas is accelerating. Because of its direct impact on global food production, injury and loss of arable land has become one of the most urgent problems facing humanity. Of these problems, this is perhaps the most neglected. Controlling these damaging activities and increasing food production must now receive priority and resources commensurate with their importance if humanity is to avoid harsh difficulties in the decades ahead.
Angiogenesis and hematological malignancies

Since the initial hypotheses on the importance of angiogenesis in the pathogenesis of cancer approximately 30 years ago, there have been major advances in the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of this complex process of new vessel formation. Among the multitude of factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has emerged as one of the most potent angiogenic factors, being implicated in the initiation of signal transduction responsible for cell proliferation, survival, migration and adhesion. Inhibition of VEGF and its signaling pathway offers a potential new molecular target in cancer therapy. This article reviews the role of angiogenesis and its mediators, particularly vascular endothelial growth factors, in hematological malignancies, as well as the potential use of anti-angiogenic therapies in the management of these conditions.
Living in Partner-violent Families: Developmental Links to Antisocial Behavior and Relationship Violence

Links between living in a partner-violent home and subsequent aggressive and antisocial behavior are suggested by the "cycle of violence" hypothesis derived from social learning theory. Although there is some empirical support, to date, findings have been generally limited to cross-sectional studies predominantly of young children, or retrospective studies of adults. We address this issue with prospective data from the Rochester Youth Development Study (RYDS), an ongoing longitudinal investigation of the development of antisocial behavior in a community sample of 1,000 urban youth followed from age 14 to adulthood. The original panel included 68% African American, 17% Hispanic, and 15% White participants, and was 72.9% male, and 27.1% female. Measures come from a combination of sources including interviews with parents, interviews with youth, and official records. We test the general hypothesis that there is a relationship between living in partner-violent homes during adolescence, and later antisocial behavior and relationship violence. Employing logistic regression and controlling for related covariates, including child physical abuse, we find a significant relationship between exposure to parental violence and adolescent conduct problems. The relationship between exposure to parental violence and measures of antisocial behavior and relationship aggression dissipates in early adulthood, however, exposure to severe parental violence is significantly related to early adulthood violent crime, and intimate partner violence. Our results suggest that exposure to severe parental violence during adolescence is indeed consequential for violent interactions in adulthood.
Immune Alveolar Hemorrhage

Liste des troubles immunologiques pouvant provoquer cette hemorragie, moyens de diagnostic et traitement
Finite Amplitude Interactions between Unstable Baroclinic Waves and Resonant Topographic Waves

Abstract Weakly nonlinear interactions between an unstable baroclinic wave and resonant topographic wave are investigated using asymptotic methods in a two-layer, quasi-geostrophic channel model on a midlatitude beta plane in the presence of sinusoidal topography and dissipation. The asymptotic analysis pivots about slightly supercritical, vertically sheared zonal flows for which the baroclinic wave is weakly unstable and the topographic wave nearly resonant. Two long time scales are required to describe the evolution of the baroclinic wave and zonal flow connections, while the topographic wave evolves only on the longest time scale. To facilitate the numerical analysis, the method of reconstitution is used to form amplitude and zonal flow equations on a combined time scale. Examination of the analytically derived amplitude evolution equations shows that the phase of the topographic wave relative to the mountain explicitly affects the nonlinear evolution of the baroclinic wave. In contrast, phase changes ...
Finite-precision analysis of the JPEG-2000 compression standard

This study describes a detailed study of the effect of finite precision computation on wavelet-based image compression. Specifically, we examine how the quality of the final decoded image is affected by various choices that a hardware designed will have to make, such as choice of wavelet (integer or real), fixed-point attributes (number of integer and fractional bits), and compression. The algorithm studied here is that adopted by the JPEG 2000 committee, and it uses trellis-coded quantization on the wavelet coefficients, followed by bit-plane coding.
On Hierarchical Diameter-Clustering and the Supplier Problem

Given a data set in a metric space, we study the problem of hierarchical clustering to minimize the maximum cluster diameter, and the hierarchical k-supplier problem with customers arriving online. We prove that two previously known algorithms for hierarchical clustering, one (offline) due to Dasgupta and Long and the other (online) due to Charikar, Chekuri, Feder and Motwani, output essentially the same result when points are considered in the same order. We show that the analyses of both algorithms are tight and exhibit a new lower bound for hierarchical clustering. Finally we present the first constant factor approximation algorithm for the online hierarchical k-supplier problem.
Development of 24 hour retention of escape learning in neonatal C3H mice

The development of 24-hr memory of an escape response in neonatal C3H mice was examined in 2 experiments. In experiment 1, separate groups of mice received 25 trials of escape training for 3 consecutive days (24 hour Inter-session-interval) beginning at 5, 7, and 9 days of age. Several different measures demonstrated witin-session improvement for all ages on all test days. However, between-session improvement which was not due to maturation did not occur until after 9 days of age. In experiment 2, separate groups of mice received 25 escape training trials at either 8 or 10 days of age, and were retested 24 hrs later. Comparisons of the retest scores with original training scores as well as with littermate controls without prior training experience, showed that 8-day old mice failed to show retention effects of prior training, whereas 10-day old mice performed better on the retention test than they had on original training, as well as better than controls without previous training. The results suggest that 24-hr memory of the escape task develops at 9–10 days of age in the C3H mouse.
Experimental Evaluation of a Surge Controller for an AMB Supported Compressor in the Presence of Piping Acoustics

This brief studies the active control of compressor surge using the thrust active magnetic bearing (AMB) in centrifugal compressors and it presents experimental test data to demonstrate the effectiveness of the control solution in industrial size equipment. A detailed step-by-step description is provided from the derivation of the surge model, to the implementation and experimental testing of the surge controller. To accurately represent the configurations found in industrial systems, the proposed surge suppression method is implemented integrally using common off-the-shelf components. During the design of the surge controller, special attention is paid to a possible conflict between the surge controller and the AMB's internal rotor levitation controller. Observations from the experimental surge testing demonstrate that the presented method is able to stabilize the compression system when operating in the unstable surge region, extending the stable flow range by over 21%. In practice, this allows the compressor to operate at the peak pressure/efficiency point, while maintaining a healthy surge margin as commonly prescribed in industrial compressors.
Efficacy and safety of class IC antiarrhythmic agents for the treatment of coexisting supraventricular and ventricular tachycardia

Thirty-three patients with concurrent supraventricular (SVT) and ventricular tachycardia (VT) were treated with class IC antiarrhythmic agents. Twenty-two patients had atrial fibrillation (17 with paroxysmal and 5 with chronic fibrillation), 1 patient had ectopic atrial tachycardia and 11 patients had reentrant paroxysmal SVT (8 with atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardia, 3 with atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia). Of 5 patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, 2 had only atrial fibrillation. Six patients had sustained VT and 27 had nonsustained VT. Twenty-nine patients had organic heart disease (16 with coronary artery disease, 8 with cardiomyopathy and 5 with valvular heart disease) and 4 had primary electrical disease. The mean ejection fraction was 40 +/- 14% (range 15 to 66%). The study population's arrhythmias were not controlled despite having received 2 to 5 (mean 3.1) previous drug trials. Eighteen patients were referred for treatment of SVT and 15 were referred for treatment of VT (mean symptom duration 107 months). Efficacy was determined in 13 of 33 patients with sustained SVT or VT by programmed electrical stimulation and in 20 of 33 by telemetry and 24-hour Holter response. Twenty-two flecainide and 15 encainide trials were conducted in the 33 patients. Four patients underwent trials with both drugs. Of 33 patients with coexisting SVT and VT, 15 (45%) were controlled with an IC agent alone and 3 continued therapy with an IC agent plus additional therapy (2 drugs, 1 antitachycardia pacing). During the follow-up period (mean 10.4 months), flecainide produced a complete response in 9 patients and encainide in 9 patients. SVT was not controlled in 7 patients and VT was not controlled in 7 patients. One patient had neither arrhythmia controlled. Atrial or ventricular proarrhythmia was seen in 9 of 33 patients (27%) (5 with ventricular and 4 with atrial arrhythmia). Noncardiac side effects were uncommon. Oral class IC agents may be effective therapy for some patients with coexisting VT and SVT of different mechanisms. Patients with such complex arrhythmias should be evaluated carefully because there is a potential for both atrial and ventricular proarrhythmia.
NEUROTROPHIN ROLES IN RETINAL GANGLION CELL SURVIVAL: LESSONS FROM RAT GLAUCOMA MODELS

The neurotrophin (NT) hypothesis proposes that the obstruction of retrograde transport at the optic nerve head results in the deprivation of neurotrophic support to retinal ganglion cells (RGC) leading to apoptotic cell death in glaucoma. An important corollary to this concept is the implication that appropriate enhancement of neurotrophic support will prolong the survival of injured RGC indefinitely. This hypothesis is, perhaps, the most widely recognized theory to explain RGC loss resulting from exposure of the eye to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Recent studies of NT signaling using rat glaucoma models, have examined the endogenous responses of the retina to pressure exposure as well as studies designed to augment NT signaling in order to rescue RGC from apoptosis following pressure-induced injury. The examination of these studies in this review reveals a number of consistent observations and provides direction for further investigations of this hypothesis.
Degradation of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone in buccal, liver, nasal and skin tissues

Abstract Degradation of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) in various pig tissues (i.e. buccal, liver, nasal and skin) and in their corresponding homogenates was determined. The degradation of LHRH followed apparent first-order kinetics. The degradation rates of LHRH in intact tissues were lower than in their corresponding homogenates. The lowest degradation rate [(0.15±0.01) × 103 min−1] was observed in intact skin tissue indicating that the skin has minimal proteolytic activity, thus decreasing the rate of LHRH degradation.
Prognostic nomogram for sunitinib in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND. In a randomized, phase 3 trial, sunitinib demonstrated superior efficacy over interferon-alfa as first-line therapy in patients with metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). On the basis of outcome data from that trial, the authors developed a nomogram for predicting the probability of 12-month progression-free survival for patients who received sunitinib therapy. METHODS. Three-hundred seventy-five patients who received sunitinib in the phase 3 trial were the subject of the current analysis. Nomogram pretreatment predictor variables included corrected serum calcium levels, the number of metastatic sites, hemoglobin levels, prior nephrectomy, the presence of lung and liver metastases, thrombocytosis, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, time from diagnosis to treatment, and serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase. Investigator-assessed progression-free survival was the predicted outcome endpoint. Internal validation of the nomogram consisted of quantification of the discrimination with the concordance index and assessment of calibration. RESULTS. One-hundred seventy-four of 375 patients (46%) who received sunitinib achieved an objective response, and the median progression-free survival was 10.8 months (95% confidence interval, 10.6-12.6 months). A nomogram for predicting the probability of 12-month progression-free survival for patients who received sunitinib therapy was constructed on the basis of a Cox regression model from 11 parameters that were determined before treatment. The concordance index was 0.633. CONCLUSIONS. A nomogram was developed from pretreatment clinical features to predict the probability of achieving 12-month progression-free survival with sunitinib therapy for metastatic clear-cell RCC. The authors concluded that independent validation of the nomogram and additional studies to identify tumor-specific prognostic factors are warranted. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Electromyography and the study of oropharyngeal swallowing.

The effectiveness of bolus transport and airway protection during the oropharyngeal stage of swallowing depends upon the execution of rapid, coordinated contractions of the muscles of the mouth, pharynx, and larynx. A commonly used method for studying the contractile properties of muscles is electromyography (EMG). At this time, however, the literature contains relatively few references to the application of electromyography for the study of the muscles associated with swallowing. The purpose of this paper is to briefly describe the theory and basic principles of electromyography, describe the current methods for recording myoelectric signals during swallowing, and to acquaint the reader with the present state of the art on clinical and research applications of EMG to swallowing. Because there is sufficient information in the speech science literature to assist the interested investigator in developing protocols for the EMG study of laryngeal muscles, the emphasis in the paper will be on recording from the pharynx.
Body protein losses estimated by nitrogen balance and potassium-40 counting.

Body protein losses estimated from N balance were compared with those estimated by 40K counting. Six nonlactating dairy cows were fed an adequate N diet for 7 wk, a low N diet for 9 wk, and a replete N diet for 3 wk. The low N diet contained high cell wall grass hay plus ground corn, starch, and molasses. Soybean meal was added to the low N diet to increase N in the adequate N and replete N diets. Intake was measured daily. Digestibilities, N balance, and body composition (estimated by 40K counting) were determined during each dietary regimen. During low N treatment, hay dry matter intake declined 2 kg/d, and supplement increased about .5 kg/d. Dry matter digestibility was not altered by N treatment. Protein and acid detergent fiber digestibilities decreased from 40 and 36% during adequate N to 20 and 2%, respectively, during low N. Fecal and urinary N also declined when cows were fed the low N diet. By the end of repletion, total intake, fiber, and protein digestibilities as well as N partition were similar to or exceeded those during adequate N intake. Body protein (N) loss was estimated by N balance to be about 3 kg compared with 8 kg by 40K counting. Body fat losses (32 kg) were large because of low energy digestibility and intake. Seven kilograms of body fat were regained during repletion, but there was no change in body protein.
A counterexample in the theory of random orders

We show that the 0–1 law fails in random orders of fixed dimension k, k≥3. In particular, we give an example of a first-order sentence ϕ, in the language of partial orders, which cannot have limiting probability 0 or 1 among random orders of dimension 3.
Effect of NADH-X on cytosolic glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase.

At pH 7.05 NADH-X prepared by incubating NADH with glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (E.C. 1.2.1.12) was a potent noncompetitive inhibitor, with respect to coenzyme, of NADPH oxidation by pure rabbit muscle cytosolic glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (E.C. 1.1.1.8) and also a potent inhibitor of NADPH oxidation catalyzed by this enzyme in a rat pancreatic islet cytosolic fraction. It was a much less potent inhibitor of NADPH oxidation catalyzed by this enzyme in a rat liver cytosolic fraction and of NADH oxidation catalyzed by this enzyme from all three sources. Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase purified from muscle cytosol contains tightly bound NADH-X, NAD, and ADP-ribose, each in amounts of about 0.1 mol per mole of enzyme polypeptide chain. A deproteinized supernatant of this enzyme contained these three ligands and produced the same type of inhibition of the enzyme described above for prepared NADH-X with a Ki, in the reaction with NADPH at pH 7.05, in the range of 0.2 microM with respect to the total concentration of ligands ([ADP-ribose] + [NAD] + [NADH-X] = 0. 2 microM). However, only the NADH-X component could account for the potent inhibition because NAD, ADP-ribose, and the primary acid product (which can be produced from NADH-X) each had a Ki considerably higher than 0.2 microM. Although at pH 7.05 NADH-X inhibited NADPH oxidation considerably more than NADH oxidation, the reverse was the case at pH 7.38. Since the enzyme purified from muscle contains tightly bound NADH-X, NADH-X might become attached to the enzyme in vivo where it could play a role in regulating the ratio of NADH to NADPH oxidation of the enzyme.
3D numerical simulation of partial breach dam-break flow using the LES and k–ϵ turbulence models

The shallow water equations, also known as the Saint Venant equations, are commonly used to simulate transient free-surface flows including dam-break and levee-breach flows. However, these solutions give inaccurate results in the near-field of dam-break flow. In this paper, 3D numerical simulations of dam-break flow are done using the large eddy simulation (LES) and the k–ϵ turbulence models with tracking of the free surface by the volume-of-fluid model. A computational fluid dynamics solver is utilized for this. Results are compared with published experimental data on dam-break flow through a partial breach as well as with results obtained by others using a shallow water model. The results show that both the LES and the k–ϵ modelling satisfactorily reproduce the temporal variation of the measured bottom pressure. However, the LES model captures better the free surface and velocity variation with time.
Solving algebraically explicit DAEs with the MANPAK-manifold-algorithms

Abstract Recently, the author introduced a package of algorithms, called MANPAK, for effective computations on implicitly defined submanifolds of R n . Here algebraically explicit differential algebraic equations (DAEs) are considered; that is, DAEs in which either the algebraic equations and/or the algebraic variables are explicitly specified. Existence proofs for several types of such DAEs of index one, two, and three are given, which directly suggest computational approaches. This is used in the development of solution algorithms for these DAEs, all of them intrinsically based on the MANPAK routines. Some numerical examples for the methods are included.
Transient structures of crystals and liquids: an x-ray diffraction and EXAFS study

CBr 4 in solution was excited with 266nm picosecond pulses and the spectra and kinetics of the excited states, intermediate and final products were recorded. A long lived CBr 4 dissociation transient characterized by a broad absorption band with a maximum at 480 nm was found to be a solvent stabilized ion pair, ( CBr, + // Br - ) solv . EXAFS experiments reveal the structure of CBr 4 and the final dissociation products in solution. Time resolved EXAFS studies are performed to detect and determine the structure of the dissociation intermediates as a function of time, with a resolution of a few picoseconds and 0.02 A. Transient lattice structures have been observed in metalic nano-crystals after been heated with pulsed laser excitation. The distortion of the lattice of Au (111) 150 nm thick film as a function of time after excitation has been measured.
Synaptotagmin 2 couples mucin granule exocytosis to Ca2+ signaling from endoplasmic reticulum.

Synaptotagmin 2 (Syt2) functions as a low affinity, fast exocytic Ca2+ sensor in neurons, where it is activated by Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated channels. Targeted insertion of lacZ into the mouse syt2 locus reveals expression in mucin-secreting goblet cells of the airways. In these cells, rapid Ca2+ entry from the extracellular medium does not contribute significantly to stimulated secretion (Davis, C. W., and Dickey, B. F. (2008) Annu. Rev. Physiol. 70, 487–512). Nonetheless, Syt2–/– mice show a severe defect in acute agonist-stimulated airway mucin secretion, and Syt2+/– mice show a partial defect. In contrast to Munc13-2–/– mice (Zhu, Y., Ehre, C., Abdullah, L. H., Sheehan, J. K., Roy, M., Evans, C. M., Dickey, B. F., and Davis, C. W. (2008) J. Physiol. (Lond.) 586, 1977–1992), Syt2–/– mice show no spontaneous mucin accumulation, consistent with the inhibitory action of Syt2 at resting cytoplasmic Ca2+ in neurons. In human airway goblet cells, inositol trisphosphate receptors are found in rough endoplasmic reticulum that closely invests apical mucin granules, consistent with the known dependence of exocytic Ca2+ signaling on intracellular stores in these cells. Hence, Syt2 can serve as an exocytic sensor for diverse Ca2+ signaling systems, and its levels are limiting for stimulated secretory function in airway goblet cells.