cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New Drugs for Scar Treatment

Cutaneous scar formation following injury is an exuberant fibro-proliferative event and causes aesthetic distress associated with functional problems for those afflicted. Traditionally, surgical revision of excessive hypertrophic scars is commonly performed. However, scar recurrence rate is high and surgical treatments are often combined with radiation therapy, corticosteroid injections, or with other noninvasive therapies. Pharmacological intervention of scar-promoting cellular activities has recently gained traction based on the emerging scientific evidence proving efficacy and safety of new therapeutics in preclinical studies. Ideal new drug therapies would be noninvasive, inexpensive, safe-to-use, and effective in prevention of scar formation. Recently, cytokine-based therapies and modulators of mechanotransduction are being evaluated for their anti-fibrotic properties in the reduction and prevention of scarring. Therapeutic potential of evidence-based new scar therapeutics holds promise toward improving the current wound and scar management practice.
Evaluating Deep Learning Algorithms for Real-Time Arrhythmia Detection

Cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and congestive heart failure, are the leading cause of death both in the United States and worldwide. The current medical practice for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases is not suitable for long-term, out-of-hospital use. A key to long-term monitoring is the ability to detect abnormal cardiac rhythms, i.e., arrhythmia, in real-time. In this paper, we present our work in designing real-time sensing, and evaluating machine learning algorithms for real-time arrhythmia detection. Most of the existing work applies machine learning algorithms to electrocardiogram (ECG) images to detect abnormal patterns. These approaches are not suitable for real-time processing due to high processing overhead. In our work, we treat data as time series, and evaluate various machine learning algorithms in terms of both learning and computational performance. Our experimental results show that the long short-term memory network (LSTM) has both high accuracy and efficiency, demonstrating great potential for online detection of arrhythmia.
Identification of Concomitant Iatrogenic Lower Extremity Lymphedema and Pelvic Lymphatic Leak on Lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT

Pelvic lymphatic leakage and lower extremity lymphedema are well-known complications of pelvic surgery or radiation therapy. We report a cervical carcinoma patient who, after hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy, developed concomitant lymphedema of the left lower extremity and a pelvic lymphatic leak identified on lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT.
A review of gender affirmation surgery: What we know, and what we need to know.

Abstract Background Gender-affirmation surgery is a rapidly growing field in plastic surgery, urologic surgery, and gynecologic surgery. These procedures offer significant benefit to patients in reducing gender dysphoria and improving well-being. However, the details of gender-affirmation surgery are less well-known to other surgical subspecialties and other medical subspecialties. The data behind gender-affirmation surgery are comparatively sparse, and due to the recency of the field, large gaps exist in the literature. Methods PubMed searches were carried out specific to gender-affirming mastectomies, vaginoplasty, vulvaplasty, mastectomy, metoidioplasty, and phalloplasty. Combinations and variants of “gender affirming,” “gender confirming,” “transgender,” and other variants were used to ensure broad capture. Historical articles were also reviewed. The data gathered were collated and summarized. Results Gender-affirmation surgery is generally safe. Complication rates for gender-affirming mastectomy and breast augmentation are very low, and complication rates for genital surgeries are also reasonably low. Gender-affirmation surgery decreases rates of gender dysphoria, depression, and suicidality, and significantly improves quality-of-life measures. Data regarding facial gender-affirming surgery are limited. There are very few patient-reported outcome measures specific to gender-affirmation surgery. Conclusion Although the data behind male-to-female gender-affirming surgery are more robust, there are significant gaps in the literature with respect to female-to-male surgery, surgical complication rates for genital surgery, facial masculinization and feminization, and patient-reported outcomes. We therefore present recommendations for further study.
MR IMAGING OF SOFT-TISSUE MASSES IN CHILDREN

SUMMARY There is general consensus on the value of MR imaging as a useful adjunct for evaluation of extent of soft-tissue masses in the pediatric population. In some cases, MR imaging can provide diagnostic information, but in most cases there are few definitive answers. Soft-tissue masses include a heterogeneous group of lesions, ranging from benign self-limited hematomas to highly malignant sarcomas. Because of its excellent soft-tissue contrast MR imaging has proved to be the most accurate noninvasive test for localizing, staging, and in some cases, characterizing these tumors. In 30% to 45% of all cases a specific histologic diagnosis can be suggested, and in these instances appropriate therapy may be instituted on the basis of the imaging findings. For those lesions where the MR appearance is nonspecific, even if benignity is suggested, a conservative approach is prudent. The only definitive
Citizen outsider: Children of North African immigrants in France: by Jean Beaman, Oakland, University of California Press, 2017, 170 pp., $34.95 (paperback), ISBN: 9780520294264

Jean Beaman’s Citizen Outsider (2017) addresses the experiences of middle-class second-generation North-African immigrants in Paris, and how processes of racialisation and racism affect their relat...
Comprehensive Basis-Set Testing of Extended Symmetry Adapted Perturbation Theory

Hybrid or "extended" symmetry-adapted perturbation theory (XSAPT) replaces traditional SAPT's treatment of dispersion with better-performing alternatives, while at the same time extending two-body (dimer) SAPT to a many-body treatment of polarization, via a self-consistent charge-embedding procedure. The present work presents a systematic study of how total interaction energies and also energy components converge with respect to the choice of Gaussian basis set in XSAPT. Pople-style basis sets, while very efficient, consistently afford errors > 1 kcal/mol with respect to benchmark interaction energies for standard data sets of noncovalent complexes, whereas Dunning's correlation-consistent basis sets and Karlsruhe basis sets perform much better. Hybrid treatments of dispersion afford must faster basis-set convergence as compared to traditional SAPT, and benchmark-quality results can be obtained using basis sets of triple-zeta quality, although the use of diffuse functions proves to be essential. The use of dimer Hartree-Fock calculations as a correction for higher-order induction can be performed in even smaller basis sets with negligible error, leading to a composite approach that offers speedups of 100x even for small systems.
MTJ-Based State Retentive Flip-Flop With Enhanced-Scan Capability to Sustain Sudden Power Failure

We present two non-volatile flip-flops (NVFFs) that incorporate magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJ) to ensure fast data storage and restoration from intentional and unintentional power outages. The proposed designs also facilitate enhanced scan mode testing capability by exploiting the nonvolatile latch to function as hold latch for delay testing. The proposed NVFF eliminates additional write drivers, and can operate at up to 2 GHz at 1.1 V, with 0.55 pJ of energy consumption in 22 nm predictive technology. We also address the issue of write asymmetry of MTJ through careful transistor upsizing to achieve near uniform write latency. A data-dependent power gating technique is proposed to mitigate the high static current during retention and back-to-back writing of the identical input data. The proposed gated NVFF achieves several orders of magnitude energy saving at the expense of 1.56X area compared to a standard enhanced scan flip-flop.
Heterochrony in Plants

Heterochrony refers to a change in the relative timing or rate of development of morphological features that occur in the ancestor and the descendant. This is an evolutionary concept that invokes shifts in developmental timing as a major force in the evolution of new forms. Keywords: phase change; juvenility; evolution; cleistogamy; flowering plants
Leptin prevents cognitive impairment in a rat model of postnatal growth restriction (137.4)

PGR is associated with impaired neurodevelopment, and lower serum leptin in preterm infants. We have demonstrated the same in a rodent model. As leptin is important in CNS myelination, we hypothesi...
Solar Wind Concentrator

The detailed bulk composition of the Sun, and hence of the solar wind, provides a fundamental data set for planetary science. In order to increase the solar wind implanted into an ultra-pure sample compared to the irreducible contaminants, we have designed a solar wind concentrator. A concentration factor of >20 is achieved by using an electro-optical design that is roughly analogous to an optical reflecting telescope with the additions of ion pre-acceleration and proton rejection. Detailed calculations and simulations using three separate approaches have been used to optimize and prove out the design. In addition, the critical mirror portion of the design was prototyped and tested; results of the prototype testing bear out the basic design of the concentrator and were used to further optimize the mechanical design. While never flown as a unit, all components of the concentrator have substantial flight heritage. The solar wind concentrator design is mature and ready for flight.
Nonparametric data reduction approach for large-scale survival data analysis

In the era of big data, analysis of complex and huge data expends time and money, may cause errors and misinterpretations. Consequently, inaccurate and erroneous reasoning could lead to poor inference and decision making, sometimes irreversible and catastrophic events. On the other hand, proper management and utilization of valuable data could significantly increase knowledge and reduce cost by preventive actions. In this field, time-to-event and survival data analysis is a kernel of risk assessment and have an inevitable role in predicting the probability of many events occurrence such as failure of a device or component. Thus, in the presence of large-scale, massive and complex data, specifically in terms of variables, applying proper methods to efficiently simplify such data before any analysis process is desired. In this paper we propose an applied data reduction approach which enables us to obtain appropriate variable selection in high dimensional and large-scale data in order to avoid aforementioned difficulties in decision making and facilitate survival data and failure analysis. This paper present applied data reduction and variable selection approach for risk assessment and decision making in complex large-scale survival data analysis.
Call blocking probabilities for dynamic and fixed assignment of a single channel in a linear cellular array

We consider the problem of assigning a single channel in a linear cellular array, and compare the call blocking probabilities for dynamic and fixed channel assignment (DCA and FCA). Our principal concern is the derivation of closed-form expressions for these blocking probabilities as a function of the array size and traffic load, assuming a Markov traffic model. The limiting behavior of the blocking probabilities for DCA and FCA relative to increasing array size and extreme traffic loads is also discussed. Moreover, it is shown that there is a unique cross-over traffic load such that DCA has a lower blocking probability than FCA for traffic loads less than the cross-over load, and vice versa.
Questioning Ramayanas: A South Asian Tradition/Seeking Mahadevi: Constructing the Identities of the Hindu Great Goddess.

Questioning Ramayanas:. South Asian Tradition. Paula Richman. ed. Berkeley: University of California Press, 2001. 452 pp. Seeking Mahadevi: Constructing the Identities of the Hindu Great Goddess. Tracy Pintchman. ed. Albany: State University of New York Press, 2001. 254 pp.
The effects of yohimbine on the pharmacokinetic parameters of detomidine in the horse.

Abstract Objective To describe the pharmacokinetics of detomidine and yohimbine when administered in combination. Study design Randomized crossover design. Animals Nine healthy adult horses aged 9 ± 4 years and weighing of 561 ± 56 kg. Methods Three dose regimens were employed in the current study. 1) 0.03 mg kg−1 detomidine IV (D), 2) 0.2 mg kg−1 yohimbine IV (Y) and 3) 0.03 mg kg−1 detomidine IV followed 15 minutes later by 0.2 mg kg−1 yohimbine IV (DY). Each horse received all three dose regimens with a minimum of 1 week in between subsequent regimens. Blood samples were obtained and plasma analyzed for detomidine and yohimbine concentrations by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Data were analyzed using both non-compartmental and compartmental analysis. Results The maximum measured detomidine concentrations were 76.0 and 129.9 ng mL−1 for the D and DY treatments, respectively. Systemic clearance and volume of distribution of detomidine were not significantly different for either treatment. There was a significant increase in the maximum measured yohimbine plasma concentrations from Y (173.9 ng mL−1) to DY (289.8 ng mL−1). Both the Cl and Vd for yohimbine were significantly less (6.8 mL minute−1 kg−1 (Cl) and 1.7 L kg−1 (Vd)) for the DY as compared to the Y treatments (13.9 mL minute−1 kg−1 (Cl) and 2.7 L kg−1 (Vd)). Plasma concentrations were below the limit of quantitation (0.05 and 0.5 ng mL−1) by 18 hours for both detomidine and yohimbine. Conclusion and clinical relevance The Cl and Vd of yohimbine were affected by prior administration of detomidine. The elimination half life of yohimbine remained unaffected when administered subsequent to detomidine. However, the increased plasma concentrations in the presence of detomidine has the potential to cause untoward effects and therefore further studies to assess the physiologic effects of this combination of drugs are warranted.
A Comparative Analysis of Social Learning and Social Control Theories in the Prediction of College Crime

This research examines the comparative ability of social control and social learning theories to predict crime on a college campus. Data were obtained from self-report surveys from the first wave of a longitudinal study at a liberal arts college in the Mid-Atlantic region. Results from correlation and regression analyses indicate that both social control and social learning components are related to crime and drug use, with the greatest amount of variance explained by models that include elements of both theories. Issues such as the temporal ordering of peer and individual delinquency and the similarity between belief and definitions are discussed.
Student and Teacher Predictions of Kindergartner's Basic Concept Mastery: How Valid are they?

The relationships among kindergarten children's basic concept mastery, their self-predictions of concept mastery, and their teacher's predictions of concept mastery were investigated using items from the Bracken Basic Concept Scale (BBCS) Form A, screening test. Results indicated the BBCS score mean was significantly lower than both the teacher's prediction mean (p < .001) and the self-prediction mean (p < .001); the teacher's prediction mean and self-prediction mean did not differ. While overpredicting scores, teachers showed moderate discriminative abilities in differentiating good from poor students; the teachers' prediction scores and the children's mastery scores correlated significantly (r = .41, p = .001). The kindergarten children failed to display this discriminative ability. Because teachers displayed the ability to rank performance of these kindergarten-aged children, we conclude they are able to provide useful information to school-based assessment teams when gross rankings are required. On th...
Specific Binding of Adamantane Drugs and Direction of their Polar Amines in the Pore of the Influenza M2 Transmembrane Domain in Lipid Bilayers and Dodecylphosphocholine Micelles Determined by NMR Spectroscopy

The transmembrane domain of the influenza M2 protein (M2TM) forms a tetrameric proton channel important for the virus lifecycle. The proton-channel activity is inhibited by amine-containing adamantyl drugs amantadine and rimantadine, which have been shown to bind specifically to the pore of M2TM near Ser31. However, whether the polar amine points to the N- or C-terminus of the channel has not yet been determined. Elucidating the polar group direction will shed light on the mechanism by which drug binding inhibits this proton channel and will facilitate rational design of new inhibitors. In this study, we determine the polar amine direction using M2TM reconstituted in lipid bilayers as well as dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. 13C−2H rotational-echo double-resonance NMR experiments of 13C-labeled M2TM and methyl-deuterated rimantadine in lipid bilayers showed that the polar amine pointed to the C-terminus of the channel, with the methyl group close to Gly34. Solution NMR experiments of M2TM in DPC mice...
The Price Responsiveness of Primary Producers: A Relative Supply Approach

In supply response studies of the agricultural sector, production and acreage have both been used as the dependent variable. For a perennial crop like rubber, where a tree takes six to seven years to mature and is then productive for about twenty-five years, there are obvious problems with using acreage. Moreover, acreage figures which exist for Liberian farms are estimated by an extremely crude method. On the other hand, since all Liberian rubber is sold to three processors paying identical prices, data on production and prices are very good. Several models have been used to deal with the
Comment on Stephen Vaisey’s “Socrates, Skinner, and Aristotle: Three Ways of Thinking About Culture in Action”

In this essay, I respond to Vaisey’s arguments on culture and cognition, noting our points of agreement and disagreement and posing new ideas for future research.
Rule-based query optimization in IRIS

In this paper we present the design and initial performance results of a rule-based query optimizer used in Iris, an object-oriented database system [3]. Query optimization methods are expressed as rules and the entire query process is carried out in a way analogous to the operation of production systems in AI. Two kinds of rules are used: the first kind transform a query, represented as a relational algebra expression, into an equivalent, but simpler, query; the second kind add information to the relational algebra representation to specify join order and data access methods. Preliminary results show that the speed of the query optimizer and the performance of the execution plans generated are comparable to those in a traditional relational database system.
Culture Clash? Apologies East and West

Following the 1 April 2001 plane collision over the South China Seas, China and the United States engaged in two weeks of intensive 'apology diplomacy'. What role did culture play in these events? Drawing on experimental findings in social and cross-cultural psychology, we argue against the pundits that essentialized cultural difference--and against those who denied that culture matters. Instead, we maintain that both cultural differences and cultural commonalties played a significant role in Sino-American apology diplomacy.
Two-photon-excited fluorescence spectroscopy of atomic fluorine at 170 nm

Two-photon-excited fluorescence spectroscopy of atomic fluorine is reported. A doubled dye laser at 286-nm is Raman shifted in H2 to 170 nm (sixth anti-Stokes order) to excite ground-state 2P(0)J fluorine atoms to the 2D(0)J level. The fluorine atoms are detected by one of two methods: observing the fluorescence decay to the 2PJ level or observing F(+) production through the absorption of an additional photon by the excited atoms. Relative two-photon absorption cross sections to and the radiative lifetimes of the 2D(0)J states are measured.
Control of ansa-zirconocene stereochemistry by reversible exchange of cyclopentadienyl and chloride ligands.

The reaction of Li2[Me2Si(3-R-C5H3)2] salts with Zr{Me3SiN(CH2)3NSiMe3}Cl2(THF)2 in THF quantitatively afforded rac-Me2Si(3-R-C5H3)2Zr{Me3SiN(CH2)3NSiMe3} zirconocenes with 100% stereoselectivity. NMR monitoring studies showed that these reactions initially form rac/meso mixtures, which undergo isomerization to pure rac. The isomerization requires Cp−enantioface exchange and is catalyzed by chloride ion, which reversibly displaces Cp- from Me2Si(3-R-C5H3)2Zr{Me3SiN(CH2)3NSiMe3}. Kinetic analyses for selected complexes showed first-order dependence of the isomerization rate on both metallocene and chloride concentrations. Reversible Cp-/Cl- exchange is also facile for {ansa-bis-Cp}ZrCl2 and nonbridged Cp2ZrCl2 complexes.
Mechanisms of N2O production following chloropicrin fumigation

Soil fumigation has recently been shown to affect the greenhouse gas balance by increasing emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O) following chloropicrin (CP) application. However, the exact mechanisms of this increase were not investigated. The purpose of this study was to elucidate potential mechanisms of CP-induced N2O production through laboratory incubations using chemical inhibitors (acetylene, antibacterial, antifungal, and oxygen), isotopically labeled 15N-CP, and pH modifications of a forest nursery soil. Results showed that N2O production increased by 12.6 times following CP fumigation. Microbial activity contributed 82% to the CP-induced N2O production, with the remaining 18% from abiotic processes as determined by incubation with sterilized soil. Inhibitor studies suggested that 20% of the N2O production was from bacteria and 70% from fungi. There were no significant differences in N2O production following CP fumigation under various levels of acetylene (0, 10, and 10 kPa), suggesting that traditional nitrification and denitification reactions did not significantly contribute to N2O production following CP fumigation. 15N labeled studies indicated that 12% of fumigant source N was incorporated into the produced N2O. No enrichment in N2 was observed, indicating that N2O was one of the terminal biotic mineralization products of CP. Production of N2O is aerobic and production rates increased with increasing oxygen concentrations. Our data strongly suggested that fungal mediated denitrification reactions under aerobic conditions were the primary mechanism for CP-induced N2O production.
STRATEGIC RESPONSES TO TODAY'S TURBULENT FINANCIAL MARKETS

Not since the Great Depression of the 1930s have the financial markets been so turbulent. Individuals, corporations, and financial institutions have taken some innovative steps to protect themselves.
Emotional intelligence: not much more than g and personality

Cognitive ability and personality have long played central roles in the investigation of determinants of human performance. Recently, the construct of emotional intelligence (EI) has emerged in the popular literature as an additional explanatory concept for human behavior and performance. The ability conceptualization of EI proposed by Mayer, Salovey, and their colleagues involves the perception, assimilation, comprehension, and management of emotions. Its proponents consider it to be distinct from either general cognitive ability (g) or personality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the construct validity of EI by examining its relations to g and the Big Five personality dimensions of Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. The observed correlation between scores on the Wonderlic Personnel Test (a measure of g) and EI was r=0.454. A regression model that included three predictors representing g, the Big Five dimension of Agreeableness, and sex showed an R of 0.617. After correction for unreliability the multiple correlation became 0.806, showing a strong relationship. Based on these results, we question the uniqueness of EI as a construct and conclude that its potential for advancing our understanding of human performance may be limited. Implications and suggestions for future studies are discussed.
Exorbitant CEO compensation: just reward or grand theft?

The failure of society to criminalize policies and practices of powerful organizations and individuals that are demonstrably harmful has been a central theme of the white collar crime literature since Sutherland. In recent years much commentary and criticism has been directed at vastly exorbitant compensation packages awarded to CEOs of major corporations and other major institutions. Although some criminal prosecutions have been pursued on the basis of allegations of fraud in relation to CEO compensation (e.g., the Dennis Kozlowski/Tyco case and the Conrad Black/Hollinger case), and some civil lawsuits demanding repayment of unjustifiably large CEO compensation have been initiated (e.g., the Richard Grasso/New York Stock Exchange case), most typically exorbitant CEO compensation packages result in neither criminal indictments nor civil lawsuits. This article explores the status of exorbitant CEO compensation as a criminological phenomenon, beginning with a typology of different views on such compensation. The contemporary scope of disproportionate compensation is reviewed, with the exponential increase in the gaps between the compensation of CEOs and those below them documented. Some of the different mechanisms along a continuum of legal to illegal for providing exorbitant CEO compensation are identified. Why is the awarding of exorbitant CEO compensation typically legal? What specific forms of harm arise from awarding exorbitant CEO compensation? Why do Corporate Board Compensation Committees award exorbitant CEO compensation? Indeed, what are the specifically criminogenic dimensions of Corporate Board decision-making that contribute to this process? What arguments can be advanced in favor of criminalizing exorbitant CEO compensation and against doing so? What specific practical constraints would have to be overcome to criminalize the awarding of exorbitant CEO compensation? If exorbitant CEO compensation has not been addressed traditionally as a form of white collar crime, what arguments can be advanced in favor and against doing so now? This article promotes attention to the exorbitant CEO compensation issue by white collar crime scholars, with a provisional addressing of the questions raised above.
The Wipp Pre-Disposal Phase Experimental Program

The WIPP is a transuranic waste disposal project of the U.S. Department of Energy and administered by the Carlsbad Area Office. The WIPP facility is a mined repository located near Carlsbad, New Mexico. It was developed and constructed 658 meters below the surface to demonstrate the safe, permanent isolation of transuranic radioactive wastes in a bedded salt formation. After the site selection phase and construction phase were completed, DOE embarked upon a pre-disposal experimental program phase. There are four major WIPP experimental program areas: shaft seals and rock mechanics; disposal room interactions; fluid flow and transport; and direct releases due to human intrusion. The Pre-Disposal Phase Experimental Program provided the necessary information to support the WIPP performance assessment process. The results of the program have been instrumental in demonstrating that the WIPP meets the regulatory requirements.
Topology optimization of planar cross-sections

Topology optimization provides a rigorous method for the conceptual design of structural components. In this note, a practical approach for solving topology optimization problems of planar cross-sections is discussed. A problem formulation involving the use of continuous design variables is presented, and a standard nonlinear programming algorithm is used to solve the optimization problem. Results of the technique for two examples are presented and compared to similar results in the literature.
Response of wetland vegetation to the post-1986 decrease in Lake St. Clair water levels: Seed-bank emergence and beginnings of the Phragmites australis invasion

Abstract Water-level fluctuations are critical for maintaining the diversity and resultant habitat value of wetland plant communities in the Laurentian Great Lakes. However, activation of the seed bank can also provide an opportunity for invasive species to displace native species, as occurred when common reed, Phragmites australis , expanded across many wetlands after lake levels receded following highs in 1997. Timing of the invasion process is not clear, however, as Phragmites propagules had to be present to exploit the exposed soils. A data set from Dickinson Island on the St. Clair River delta collected in 1988–1991, 1996 during a previous lake-level decline was analyzed to document prior Phragmites growth, as well as overall seed-bank response. Above-ground biomass was determined for all plants each year in randomly placed quadrats in a 5-ha area exposed when lake levels decreased by 0.65 m from 1986 to 1988. A total of 38 taxa were identified in 1988, but the number decreased, along with biomass of many species, as canopy-dominating Typha angustifolia and Phragmites increased in later years. Although Phragmites did not expand greatly until after the decline from the 1997 high, it likely inoculated the area with viable seed during the previous low. Because post-1997 lake levels were lower than those post-1986, they exposed a greater area for Phragmites colonization from seed; lake levels also remained low for a longer time. Differences in bathymetry below the 1986 and 1997 lake-level elevations likely played a role in greater post-1997 spatial expansion of Phragmites at other sites in the Great Lakes also. The next high lake level will likely be required to displace Phragmites , but the effect will be temporary.
Infection control in day-care centers: present and future needs.

Thirty to 40 years ago most children under 6 years of age were cared for in their homes by their mothers .l Today, more than 60% of women with young children are in the work force.’ More than 11 million children live fulltime or part-time in a variety of settings.2 The principal types of paid child day-care are licensed day-care centers (DCCs), smaller licensed and unlicensed day-care homes, and care by adults other than the parents in the child’s own home.* Day-care-acquired infectious diseases have been well documented in medical literature. Outbreaks of hepatitis A and infections caused by Giardia, Shigella, Salmonella, rotavirus, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli, Campylobacter, Yersinia, Entamoeba histolytica, and adenovirus have affected children, employees, and household contacts.3 During the first 5 weeks of enrollment in a day-care center, children have an average diarrhea attack rate of 25%.3 Even with the strictest supervision it is difficult to control active children who have runny noses. Children younger than 6 years of age are ideal hosts for enterorespiratory agentsP Their lack of prior exposure makes children particularly susceptible to infection, and their lack of hygienic practices enhances the spread of disease. Family members and the community at large are also at risk because children are often asymp-
Discordance in the histopathologic diagnosis of melanoma and melanocytic nevi between expert pathologists

The reliability of a diagnostic test depends on the reproducibility of the result. Many clinical diagnostic tests can be quantified with established ranges and standard deviations. Other tests are more subjective, such as those that depend on analysis of a visual image with an increased possibility of variance in the result. To study this variance, the authors analyzed the performance of expert pathologists in the interpretation of cutaneous melanocytic tumors. A panel of expert pathologists was convened to review anatomic pathology specimens from melanocytic tumors. Each pathologist submitted five specimens, from which 37 were selected for review. Only one slide was used for each case. All specimens were interpreted by each pathologist without consultation with each other. In addition to standard diagnostic terms, each specimen was designated as benign, malignant, or indeterminate. Statistical analysis was used to determine the degree of concordance. The combined kappa statistic for the eight observers and three possible outcomes (benign, malignant, or indeterminate) was 0.50. A kappa statistic of this magnitude, is defined as being moderate. In 62% of the specimens, there was unanimous agreement or only one discordant designation. Thirty-eight percent had two or more discordant interpretations. No single pathologist had a disproportionate number of discordant designations. This study mimics the consultation practice of anatomic pathology and shows the variability and discordance in diagnostic language and designation of biological behavior. The results suggest the criteria for the diagnosis of melanomas and melanocytic nevi need to be refined and more consistently applied.
Type 1A diabetes induced by infection and immunization.

Abstract Type 1A diabetes is an immune mediated disorder that results from progressive destruction of the islet β-cells in the setting of genetic susceptibility. Both MHC and non-MHC genes contribute to disease with class II HLA molecules major determinants of susceptibility or protection. The presence of multiple anti-islet autoantibodies is associated with a high risk of disease progression, and the first anti-islet autoantibodies may appear as early as the first year of life. Congenital rubella is the only infection clearly associated with the development of type 1A diabetes. With the ability to detect children in the first year of life activating autoimmunity, prospective studies may in the future document additional environmental factors either increasing or decreasing diabetes risk.
Ocular and neural distribution of feline herpesvirus-1 during active and latent experimental infection in cats

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) cause extensive intra-ocular and neural infections in humans and are closely related to Felid herpes virus 1 (FeHV-1). We report the extent of intra-ocular replication and the extent and morphological aspects of neural replication during the acute and latent phases of FeHV-1 infection. Juvenile, SPF cats were inoculated with FeHV-1. Additional cats were used as negative controls. Cats were euthanized on days 6, 10, and 30 post-inoculation. FeHV-1 was isolated from the conjunctiva, cornea, uveal tract, retina, optic nerve, ciliary ganglion (CG), pterygopalatine ganglion (PTPG), trigeminal ganglion (TG), brainstem, visual cortex, cerebellum, and olfactory bulb of infected cats during the acute phase, but not the cranial cervical ganglion (CCG) and optic chiasm. Viral DNA was detected in all tissues during acute infection by a real-time quantitative PCR assay. On day 30, viral DNA was detected in all TG, all CCG, and 2 PTPG. Histologically mild inflammation and ganglion cell loss were noted within the TG during acute, but not latent infection. Using linear regression, a strong correlation existed between clinical score and day 30 viral DNA copy number within the TG. The correlation between clinical score and day 30 viral DNA copy number suggests the severity of the acute clinical infection is related to the quantity of latent viral DNA. The histologic response was similar to that seen during HSV-1 or VZV infection. To the author’s knowledge this is the first report of FeHV-1 infection involving intraocular structures and autonomic ganglia.
What is the source of activation for working memory

Attentional processes that operate on the contents of memory to produce the activation that is described as working memory by Ruchkin et al. and others, involve a network of brain regions that include both prefrontal and parietal sites. This network appears to mimic the one that is activated by attentional processes that operate on information entering via the senses.
Creating the future: 'New directions' in American research universities

This paper assesses the causes and consequences of recent American efforts to configure the research university as an engine of economic and social change. Drawing upon interviews and strategic plans, the paper describes recent policies to encourage ‘interdisciplinary creativity’, in a context of increasing income from private gifts and endowments.
Dislocation interaction with semicoherent precipitates (Ω phase) in deformed Al–Cu–Mg–Ag alloy

Abstract The interaction between dislocations and semicoherent precipitates (Ω phase) is discussed. The investigation shows that the semicoherent precipitate is cut by dislocations during deformation. Conventional TEM and HRTEM observations demonstrate that shearing of precipitates by dislocations occurs by multiple cutting of the precipitate. A strengthening mechanism is proposed based on this observation. The general theory is not only applicable to the Ω precipitate in Al–Cu–Mg–Ag alloys, but also to semicoherent precipitates in other alloys.
The Age of Planetary Crisis: The Unsustainable Development of Capitalism

The final years of the twentieth century have revealed three critical conditions likely to dominate the history of the coming century: (1) economic stagnation and globalization; (2) environmental decline; and (3) the weakness of antisystemic movements. As economic conditions stagnate and environmental conditions worsen, the material bases will emerge for a new, much broader movement of global resistance; one in which the struggle of labor vs. capital will be joined with the struggle of life vs. capital.
The generalised dwell point location problem

This research presents a generalised procedure to determine the optimal dwell point location for an arbitrary service device within a defined region. Similar to some existing dwell point location research for material handling systems, this study models a generic system that responds to demands for service from a region defined by a bi-variate random vector over some predefined service region as well as from a particular point analogous to the Input/Output (I/O) location for an arbitrary material handling system. A step-by-step procedure is delineated for determining the optimal dwell point location for a generic system. Extensions to the model for systems with multiple point (I/O) locations as well as for systems with multiple service regions are also presented.
Hole structure of gray tin under tensile stress

Abstract The energy band structure for holes in gray tin under uniaxial tensile stress is discussed. It is shown that there is a region in the Brillouin Zone where the hole effective mass along the stress direction becomes negative. The structure of the constant energy surfaces is studied, and the number of holes contained in the energy surface is shown to obey a E 3 law for small energy E .
Helping patients with voiding dysfunction: What are our current options?

Patients with voiding dysfunction, such as overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome and non-obstructive retention, who have failed conservative treatment are candidates for sacral nerve stimulation (SNS). Sacral nerve stimulation was originally described by Tanagho and Schmidt.1 Medtronic received United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for Interstim in July 1998 for urge incontinence. To proceed with full implant, patients were initially tested with a percutaneous nerve evaluation (PNE). The percutaneous permanent tined lead (PPTL) was released in 2002 and is now the most commonly used procedure performed prior to a patient receiving a permanent implant.2 The advantage of the PPTL over PNE is higher implantation rates 88% versus 46%.3 Richard and colleagues used an interesting approach looking at the PNE as an adjunct to the PPTL and the implanted pulse generator implant. They performed a retrospective chart review of 106 patients who underwent 116 PNEs. Of these 116 patients, 62 (53%) had a successful PNE. Of these successful cases, 57 (92%) went on to an implant. Using the PNE allowed them to pre-select patients for PPTL, which increased their overall success.4 The authors address noteworthy considerations in their approach to SNS. The most worthwhile is the use of a 60% goal for symptom improvement compared to the standard 50%, which was an initial arbitrary goal. Some may argue we should consider an even higher improvement rate, possibly 70%. The authors astutely point out that the placebo success rate for anticholinergics can be as high as 60%, clearly explaining why some patients do not improve even after a full implant. Considering the significant expense of the product, elimination of the placebo effect would decrease cost, improve efficacy and prevent unnecessary procedures. Additionally, the authors discuss the prospect that using this three-stage approach may reduce the overall cost of SNS, as the cost of the PPTL staged approach is significantly less than a PNE. This may reduce the general cost to society; however, with the lower success rate of PNE, one cannot help but wonder if treatment is being withheld from some patients who are suffering. The authors should be commended for reviewing their data and trying to identify cost-efficient and more efficacious methods of providing care for their patients. A large multi-centre trial evaluating cost and efficacy would be optimal, but unfortunately improbable. As new treatment modalities enter the market, we must continue to assume the responsibility to weigh their costs and benefits to achieve the best outcomes for the greatest number of patients.
Convergence properties of iterative maximum-entropy spectral estimation

ABSTRACT In this paper we provide the results of an empirical investigation of iterative maximum entropy spectrum estimation in twodimensions. The Lim-Malik algorithm [71[81 is compared to the classical periodogram algorithm on a number of analytic aswell as practical two-dimensional signals. We study the convergence of the Lim-Malik algorithm and suggest some criterionto assure convergence in the two-dimensional case. 1. INTRODUCTIONThe maximum entropy method (MEM) was first introduced by Burg [1][2] to circumvent the untrue assumptions associated with classic spectral estimation techniques based on the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) [3]. Classic techniques use the FFT algorithm and assume that the signal is periodic after the last available sample, and that the autocorrelationfunction coefficients (ACF) are zeroes after the last available one. An extensive surveys of classic as well as modem spectrum estimation techniques can be found in [4] and [5]. The rational behind the MEM stems from the important fact that
Perceived control over personal goals in Russian and American college students

This study investigated cultural variations in perceived control over personal goals in Russian and American college students. Several appraisal dimensions of personal goals were studied including goals' importance, their attainability, and sources of control over goal attainment, such as self, others, luck, and fate. The association between assimilative (tenacious goal pursuit) and accommodative (flexible goal adjustment) control strategies and perceived attainability of goals was also examined. The results indicated that both Russian and American students gave higher priority to work- and education-related goals and lower priority to the familial goal. In both samples, the familial goal was the most influenced and health was the least influenced by luck/chance and fate. Overall, American students were more optimistic about the perceived probability to attain their goals, which may be affected by a cultural tendency for self-enhancement and positive outlook. Russian students had a stronger belief in control by luck/chance and fate over personal goals, which coincides with a less agentic orientation of Russian culture. Regardless of culture and goal content, goal importance was associated with greater perceived success in goal attainment. However, control strategies (assimilative and accommodative) as well as internal control differentially predicted perceived attainability of goals depending on the goals' content. For both Russians and Americans, perceived attainability of education-related goals was associated with assimilative strategies and internal control; leisure was associated with accommodative strategies and health-related goals were associated with internal control. Characteristics of cultural contexts accountable for crosscultural differences in perceived control over personal goals are discussed.
PIT-1 AND ITS NATURALLY OCCURRING GENETIC MUTATIONS; ANSWERS AND QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF PITUITARY DEVELOPMENT AND DISEASE

PIT-1 AND ITS NATURALLY OCCURRING GENETIC MUTATIONS; ANSWERS AND QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF PITUITARY DEVELOPMENT AND DISEASE
A geometrical treatment of singular trajectories

Abstract The nonlinear field equations often arising in geometrodynamical theories of matter generally exhibit nonremovable singularities. Assuming that the field equations are either (1) analytic, or (2) structurally stable, we show that the Christoffel symbols of the second kind have certain properties (4), (9). The singularities are such that wedge-shaped sets can be found containing n-parameter families of trajectories emanating from a given point on a singularity. In particular cases where the singularity is an isolated point, entire neighborhoods have been found, composed of trajectories. The latter situation is especially convenient in that a generalized tangent space can be defined, in which various manipulations of other field equations can be done (separation of variables, potential theory) and for which an exponential map can be set up. We show that under (4) the geodesies (trajectories) vary continuously with respect to limit tangent vectors at the singularity. Under a slightly stronger condition (23), trajectories vary differentiably with respect to limit tangent vectors. The limit tangent vectors are the elements of the generalized tangent space.
High - Mobility, Low Parasitic Resistance Si/Ge/Si Heterostructure Channel Schottky Source/Drain PMOSFETs

We have built high performance PMOSFETs on Si substrates using a Si/Ge/Si heterostructure channel and NiSi source/drain regions. These devices exhibit ~2X improvement in mobility and orders of magnitude increase in the drive current without adversely affecting the OFF state leakage. In conclusion, using a thin Ge layer within the inversion region of a Schottky Si - PMOSFET provides for higher hole mobility (~2X) and much higher drive currents due to almost zero barrier height to holes in the channel. Also the OFF state leakage is maintained at a low value because it is limited by the large barrier height in the wider bandgap Si and Ge quantization. The transistor hence, combines the advantages of high mobility, and low parasitic resistance and is an attractive candidate for scaling PMOSFETs into the sub-20nm regime.