cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Birth outcomes following immunization of pregnant women with pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine 2009-2010.

Abstract Background Following the H1N1 influenza pandemic in 2009, pregnant women were recommended to receive both seasonal (TIV) and H1N1 influenza vaccines. This study presents incidence of adverse birth and pregnancy outcomes among a population of pregnant women immunized with TIV and H1N1 vaccines at Kaiser Permanente Northern California during 2009–2010. Methods We telephone surveyed pregnant Kaiser Permanente Northern California members to assess non-medically-attended reactions following H1N1, TIV or both vaccines during 2009–2010 (n = 5365) in a separate study. Here we assessed preterm birth ( Results Results did not vary significantly between groups. Comparing H1N1 with TIV, incidence were similar for preterm births (6.37 vs 6.28/100 births), very preterm births (5.30 vs 8.29/1000 births), LBW (4.19 vs 2.90/100 births), very LBW (4.54 vs 5.52/1000 births), small for gestational age (9.99 vs 9.24/1000 births), spontaneous abortion (7.10 vs 6.83/1000 pregnancies), stillbirths (7.10 vs 4.57/1000 pregnancies), and congenital anomalies (2.66 vs 2.43/100 births). Conclusions Although constrained by small sample size, complex vaccine groups, and differential vaccine availability during 2009–2010, this study found no difference in adverse birth outcomes between H1N1 vaccine and TIV.
Which Road to Universal Coverage

The United States could extend insurance coverage by replacing the current system with a national, tax-financed system or by extending components of our public–private system to fill in coverage gaps. The latter approach would allow us to simultaneously tackle other needs.
A Systematic Review of Big Data Analytics Using Model Driven Engineering

In this era of information technology, there is a huge and excessive amount of fully distributed, structured and unstructured data which is usually referred as 'Big Data'. This data cannot be easily and directly used for business purposes due to its excessiveness nature. Therefore, it is required to intelligently process this large amount of data to extract desired information and examine pattern to make decisions and predictions for certain business objectives. In this context, Model Driven Engineering (MDE) techniques are frequently applied for Big Data analytics. This paper investigates the latest models, approaches and tools for Big Data analytics using model driven approaches. Particularly, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) is performed to select and analyze 24 researches published during 2010 to 2017. This leads to identify 18 models, 13 tools, and 10 approaches for big data analytics using model driven approaches. The findings of this SLR are highly valuable for the researchers, students and practitioners of the domain.
Electronic and Optoelectronic Devices Based on Semiconducting Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide (ZnO), in the single-crystal or high-purity polycrystalline thin film form, is emerging as an attractive material for optoelectronic devices operating in the visible and ultraviolet spectral regions and for electronic devices with high visible transparency. In this chapter, the crystalline, electronic, and optical properties of ZnO are reviewed, followed by the application of ZnO to light-emitting diodes, lasers, photodetectors, and thin-film transistors. Basic operating principles as well as a discussion of the current state of the art of these devices are presented.
Abstract TP346: Older Age is Not Associated With Worse Outcomes Following Decompressive Hemicraniectomy for Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Introduction: Despite low-quality evidence, decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) is commonly offered following large spontaneous IPH as a life-sparing measure. When done for large MCA stroke, older ...
Emergency Department Visits for Psychotropic-Related Adverse Drug Events in Older Adults With Alzheimer Disease, 2013-2014:

Background: More than 1.3 million emergency department visits have been associated with adverse drug events (ADEs) in older adults. Increasing Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevalence in the geriatric population poses an additive risk of ADEs because of the array of psychotropic medications prescribed for AD patients. Scant research has been conducted at a nationwide level on psychotropic-related ADEs in this population. Objective: This study aimed to determine the incidence and economic burden of psychotropic ADEs in the geriatric AD population compared with the non-AD geriatric population. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of geriatric AD patients who visited the ED in 2013 with a psychotropic-related ADE to determine the incidence and resource utilization of these events. The relationship between presence of AD and an ADE was analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Results: There were 427 969 Alzheimer's ED visits compared with 20 492 554 ED visits without. Of the AD cases, 1.04% were associated with at least 1 adverse event. AD cases more frequently were admitted as inpatients (64.90% vs 34.92%, P < 0.01). Common drug classes associated with AD-related ADEs were benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and autonomic nervous system-affecting agents (adrenergic agonists, antimuscarinic agents, anticholinergic agents). There was a significantly higher likelihood for Alzheimer's cases to experience any psychotropic-related adverse event (OR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.20, 1.82). Conclusion and Relevance: Alzheimer's patients more frequently experienced psychotropic-related adverse events and related adverse outcomes than older adults without Alzheimer's. Application of these findings should be implemented in protocol development to reduce future psychotropic-related adverse outcomes for this population.
The Unique Case of Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN: Locational Attainments and Segregation in the Twin Cities

The Minneapolis–St. Paul Metropolitan Area has a rapidly growing foreign-born population in part due to its high levels of refugee reception and migrants drawn to the burgeoning high-tech and manufacturing industries. As a result, the Twin Cities are unique in that every major racial group has a sizable foreign-born segment with a wide range of U.S. entry experiences and thus the area offers an opportunity to investigate the dynamics of locational attainments and segregation of a highly diverse non-White population. Accordingly, we examine the residential outcomes of Blacks, Latinos and Asians, investigate how nativity, socioeconomic gains, and acculturation translate into residential contact with Whites, and draw the link between these micro-level locational attainments and overall segregation patterns for the area. We find Latinos and Asians experience traditional spatial assimilation dynamics but a different pattern is seen for Blacks wherein foreign-born Blacks are less segregated than U.S.-born Blacks, reversing the expected role of nativity and acculturation and suggesting a more complicated story of ethnic stratification and assimilation supported by the segmented assimilation framework.
Family warmth, self-perception, social competence, and friendships in emerging adulthood

This study examines the factors influencing friendship quality during emergent adulthood. Data were collected on a sample of 393 college students (age range 18–22, M = 20.01). Nine multi-item measu...
Topical Approach to Delivering Targeted Therapies in Lymphedema Treatment: A Systematic Review.

It is estimated that 140 to 200 million people are affected by lymphedema worldwide. Many studies have proposed targeted therapies that can be delivered systemically or locally to treat lymphedema. Since lymphedema primarily affects the skin and subcutaneous tissues, topical approaches to therapy should be considered as an attractive proposition as they can avoid systemic complications. In light of this, we conducted a systematic review of publications that analyzed the use of topical approaches to delivering targeted therapies in the treatment of lymphedema. We hypothesized that topical approaches resulted in the satisfactory treatment of lymphedema. We conducted a systematic review of publications on PubMed. The main eligibility criterion was that the articles should primarily investigate the use of topical approaches to delivering targeted therapies in the treatment of lymphedema. Consequently, we excluded papers that investigated any other delivery approaches or medical conditions. Of the 174 potential studies found in the literature, six were found to fulfill our eligibility criteria. All these studies were experimental ones on small animals (mice). The authors generally proposed different types of therapies, which could be clustered into two main groups: 1) induction of lymphangiogenesis [vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) hydrogel or fibroblast growth factor]; and 2) modulation of inflammation (tacrolimus or topical collagen gel or troxerutin-phosphatidylcholine). All studies presented positive outcomes, demonstrating that topical therapy is a promising route for delivering growth factors and anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of lymphedema. However, studies were conducted under heterogeneous protocols, and the safe application of these therapies in humans has not been assessed. Further studies are necessary to confirm the benefits and safety of targeted topical therapy on patients with lymphedema.
Ponding of Rainwater on Flexible Roof Systems

The results of an analytic investigation of the response characteristics of flexible beams and combinations of beams subjected to liquid loads are described. An important dimensionless parameter is defined which becomes the significant variable to such problems. The effects of camber and sloped surfaces on the response is evaluated. The AISC criterion for rainwater ponding is examined critically and is shown to be incomplete. All results are presented to the form of graphs. A suggested design procedure is described.
Environmental Performance of Food and Beverage Firms in Merger and Acquisition Deals

We build upon existing theories of merger and acquisition (M&A) to examine the differences in environmental performance between targets and acquirers in the Food and Beverage processing (F&B) industry. In a cream-skimming strategy, acquiring a firm with better environmental performance may add to the acquirer’s existing green efforts and improve their environmental capabilities. In a turnaround strategy, an acquirer may buy businesses from a dirtier firm and later bring them up to the buyer’s environmental standard. Among a set of 13 M&A deals in the F&B industry, we identify deals where targets have poorer or better environmental performance (toxic chemical management) than their acquirers. Our finding suggests that, among the given set of firms, there is some evidence of improvements in the toxic chemical management rate of targets and acquirers.
Incident infection in high-priority HIV molecular transmission clusters in the United States.

Objective To identify correlates of incident HIV infection in rapidly growing HIV molecular clusters. Design Phylogenetic analysis of HIV public health surveillance data. Methods High-priority HIV genetic transmission clusters with evidence of rapid growth in 2012 (i.e. clusters with a pairwise genetic distance ≤0.005 substitutions/site and at least three cases diagnosed in 2012) were identified using HIV-TRACE. Then, we investigated cluster growth, defined as HIV cases diagnosed in the following 5 years that were genetically linked to these clusters. For clusters that grew during the follow-up period, Bayesian molecular clock phylogenetic inference was performed to identify clusters with evidence of incident HIV infection (as opposed to diagnosis of previously infected cases) during this follow-up period. Results Of the 116 rapidly growing clusters identified, 73 (63%) had phylogenetic evidence for an incident HIV case during the 5-year follow-up period. Correlates of an incident HIV case arising in clusters included a greater number of diagnosed but virally unsuppressed cases in 2012, a greater number of inferred undiagnosed cases in the cluster in 2012, and a younger time of most recent common ancestor for the cluster. Conclusion These findings suggest that incident infections in rapidly growing clusters originate equally from diagnosed but unsuppressed cases and undiagnosed infections. These results highlight the importance of promoting retention in care and viral suppression as well as partner notification and other case-finding activities when investigating and intervening on high-priority molecular transmission clusters.
Cyclically Adaptive Multilevel Gate Driving for Drain-Source Synchronous Rectifier Efficiency Improvement and Range Extension

In unidirectional LLC converters, synchronous rectification (SR) is a technique that can be implemented to minimize the conduction loss of the secondary-side LLC rectifier. In drain-source voltage-sensed SR, a premature turn off issue can be observed due to parasitics present in the drain-source voltage sensing loop. In this digest, a novel use of multilevel gate drivers (MLGDs) and digitally adaptive control for multilevel turn-off can be implemented to mitigate parasitic effects, boost efficiency and the applicable load range of drain-source SR. Multilevel gate driving boosts the sensed SR signal strength, extending the total SR conduction period. This driver can be combined with an adaptive delay block to maximize efficiency. Because the increased drain-source signal integrity is increased at the turn-off moment, this also prevents an oscillation issue at light loads. Overall rectifier efficiency is increased over a traditional gate driver or non-adaptive MLGD due to a reduction in parallel diode conduction from tuning the transition point. The concept of the adaptive multilevel gate driver is proposed, explained, and simulated in this paper. A discrete multilevel gate driver is built and an adaptive delay block designed in a FPGA and tested on a LLC-DCX resonant converter for proof of concept.
Re)centering Black Feminism Into Intersectionality Research

The current national awakening and acknowledgment that White supremacy, patriarchy, and capitalism are responsible for the disproportionate effect of coronavirus disease 2019 and of police brutality on Black or Indigenous people and other people of color, people with disabilities, and sexual and gender minorities have ignited a call to action for public health leaders As public health researchers, we must go beyond merely acknowledging the presence of structural racism and explicitly assess the effect of interconnected systems of oppression on health outcomes Intersectionality is an analytic framework that can be used to describe how people marginalized by structural inequities interact with these oppressive systems but only if implemented in the way it was envisioned by Black and Black lesbian feminists 1,2
Neurogenic TOS in Children

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS) describes a set of disorders related to symptomatic compression of the brachial plexus as it passes through the thoracic outlet into the arm. In children, nTOS is a rare and frequently delayed diagnosis due to the difficulty of communicating symptoms with adults and healthcare providers and decreased prevalence of the syndrome compared to adult nTOS. Additionally, nTOS is an uncommon variant of pediatric thoracic outlet syndrome, which is predominantly arterial or vascular in nature. In this chapter we review the presentation, associated radiographic and exam findings, and management for pediatric nTOS. We summarize the outcomes for pediatric nTOS reported in the literature to date, and also present our institutional experience managing these challenging and uncommon patients.
Antipsychotic Initiation Among Older Dementia Patients Using Cholinesterase Inhibitors: A National Retrospective Cohort Study.

Evidence regarding the initiation of antipsychotic medications across individual cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) to manage the behavioral symptoms of dementia is lacking. This study compared the risk of initiation of antipsychotic medications among older adults with dementia treated with the ChEIs donepezil, rivastigmine, or galantamine. This retrospective cohort study used multiyear (2013–2015) Medicare claims data involving Parts A, B, and D. The study sample included community-dwelling older adults (aged ≥ 65 years) with a diagnosis of dementia. The study identified new users of ChEIs and followed them for up to 180 days for antipsychotic initiation. The ChEIs included donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine, whereas antipsychotics included typical and atypical agents. Donepezil was used as the reference category as it is the most commonly used ChEI and only acts on acetylcholinesterase, whereas both rivastigmine and galantamine have dual mechanisms of action. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression compared the risk of and time to antipsychotic initiation among the three ChEIs, adjusting for other risk factors. The study cohort consisted of 178,441 older adults with dementia who were new users of ChEIs. A total of 23,433 (15.14%) donepezil users, 4114 (19.04%) rivastigmine users, and 324 (15.77%) galantamine users initiated antipsychotics. The mean time to antipsychotic initiation among patients who received antipsychotics was 109.29 ± 69.72 days for donepezil users, 96.70 ± 71.60 days for rivastigmine users, and 104.15 ± 72.53 days for galantamine users. The Cox regression analysis showed that rivastigmine (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20–1.34) was significantly associated with antipsychotic initiation compared with donepezil, whereas no significant difference was observed between galantamine and donepezil (aHR = 0.98; 95% CI, 0.81–1.20). The study found a 27% increased risk of antipsychotic initiation among users of rivastigmine compared with donepezil users. There was no difference between galantamine and donepezil for antipsychotic initiation. Although the limitations of the study should be considered, the results suggest that donepezil or galantamine may be more appropriate treatments for older patients with dementia, to minimize antipsychotic use.
Surgical Options in Treating Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament: Single-Center Experience.

Background Ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) of the cervical spine can lead to spinal stenosis and become clinically symptomatic. The optimal approach in addressing OPLL is a debated topic and dependent on factors such as preoperative lordosis and levels affected. Methods In this study, we retrospectively identified patients undergoing operative management for OPLL. Demographics, operative details, radiographic parameters, outcome measurements, and complications were compared between the different approaches for OPLL treatment. Results We identified a total of 44 patients with 16 undergoing laminoplasty (Plasty), 18 anterior corpectomy and diskectomy (Ant), and 10 laminectomy and instrumentation (Linst). Ant had least OPLL levels with median (range) 3 (2–5), compared with Plasty 4 (2–7) and Linst 4 (3–6). Plasty was associated with the shortest operative time and hospital stay. Ant showed significant correction in kyphosis from 0.5° (−13 to 16°) to 9.5° (−7 to 20°). There was loss in lordosis in Plasty and Linst. Sagittal balance significantly increased irrespective of surgical approach with the least increase in the Ant group. Complications were least in the Plasty group with similar overall improvement in outcome measurements. Conclusions All 3 approaches in the management of OPLL were associated with clinical improvement without 1 approach surpassing the others. Laminoplasty had the advantage of addressing more levels of stenosis than the anterior approach and was associated with a shorter operating time. Laminoplasty patients had a shorter hospital stay than those undergoing laminectomy and instrumentation and appeared to have fewer complications than the other approaches. Laminoplasty is the preferred approach in patients with preserved motion and lordosis, with the anterior approach effective in the correction of kyphosis.
Automated Registration of Vector Data to Overhead Imagery

The availability of open source, remote sensing-derived vector data has increased exponentially in recent years. Unfortunately, these vector data are rarely made available with the corresponding source images from which objects were extracted. As such, these derived datasets are commonly used in combination with target images which differ from the source. Satellite viewing geometry can cause objects, extracted from a source image, to appear shifted when overlaid with a target image. Whether for purely cartographic purposes, reusability of preexisting training labels, or any spatial analysis where spatial correspondence between vector and image are required, the following paragraphs outline a method to address this challenge through the automated registration of vector data to overhead imagery, including existing literature regarding this challenge, followed by a case study of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
The Conference: One Man’s View

Well, I have nothing to project, only to reflect. Obviously, I’m not going to rehash the whole Conference, I’ll just give you my opinion. A conference reflects the mood of its scientific societies and the establishment. They act as a kind of gauge of the atmosphere in the field. From this point of view, this Conference was quite a revelation. First of all, it was an extremely good Conference, I thought, probably also because it was small. Secondly, while I hate to bring politics into this, yet in my opinion the Conference was distinguished by a certain post-Watergate candor. People were really very candid and many were quite willing to admit their ignorance or inability to explain their data. They simply cited their results without any implications for theories. So, of course, I found that very refreshing.
Specific IgA-Gliadin Antibody as a Marker of Relapse in Coeliac Children on Gluten Challenge

AIM: In order to assess the value of IgA Antigliadin antibody (IgA-AGA) measurement to predict mucosal relapse in coeliac children during a gluten challenge, a retrospective study on 65 children (Group I) and subsequently a prospective study on 25 children (Group II) was undertaken.
MAGNETO-GRAVITY WAVES TRAPPED IN THE LOWER SOLAR CORONA

The possibility of trapped magneto-gravity waves in the lower solar corona with an open magnetic field is discussed. Intensity variations and/or Doppler shifts of relevant UV, EUV and x-ray spectral lines in the chromosphere, transition region and lower corona may reveal the existence of such low-frequency modes (with periods longer than ~ 1.5 hour). The spectrum may be either discrete or continuous depending on the reflection property of the narrow transition region. These modes can be utilized to probe the dynamics of the upper chromosphere, transition region and lower corona; they may also play an important role in coronal heating.
Is XTP Suitable for Distributed Real-Time Systems?

XTP is already recognized as a transport layer protocol for next-generation distributed systems; in this paper we examine the Xpress Transfer Protocol’s suitability for distributed real-time systems. Distributed real-time systems require a high degree of functionality as well as performance from their communication subsystem. In distributed real-time systems performance gains are typically made at the expense of service functionality . As a consequence many communication subsystems supporting real-time applications are based on MAC layer services. XTP promises high performance at the transport layer through efficient design and an eventual VSLI implementation, as well as a high degree of functionality , much of which is useful for distributed real-time systems. W e discuss the requirements on a subsystem in order to support communication in the realtime environment. We examine the features and functionality of XTP . Finally, we conjecture about how XTP meets the requirements of a distributed real-time system, and where it fails to do so.
Intraspinal drug delivery for chronic pain and spasticity: anatomic and physiologic considerations

Abstract The intraspinal approach for controlling pain and spasticity is a safe alternative for patients who failed other less invasive modalities. It is rapidly gaining popularity as a valuable tool for this subset of patients. The safety and availability of implantable devices has helped expand the use of this route. The success of this alternative treatment is highly dependent on the physician’s skills and knowledge of the functional anatomy of the spinal cord, its coverings and its supporting structures.
Geochemical factors controlling the mobilization of inorganic constituents from fossil fuel combustion residues: II. Review of the minor elements.

Past studies of the environmental aspects of fossil fuel waste disposal have focused on determining elemental concentrations, elemental distributions, and empirical rates of elemental extraction. The concentration data for the minor elements (i.e., As, B, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Mn, Hg, Mo, Ni, Se, Sr, V, and Zn) are extremely variable and are dependent on fuel composition and combustion processes. Studies of elemental extraction rates have provided empirical information on short-term leaching behavior that is relevant only to a specific waste sample. Extraction studies serve to characterize the initial states of wastes prior to disposal but generally have not provided information on the dominant weathering reactions that will control the long-term concentrations of minor elements in the disposal environment. We propose that a more useful approach for understanding leachate chemistry involves the consideration of the thermodynamics of specific dissolution/precipitation, adsorption/desorption, and redox speciation reactions that occur during weathering in addition to empirical data. Because fossil fuel wastes are composed of high-temperature solids that formed under conditions of combustion, this approach can be used to describe the reaction paths governing the alteration of the high-temperature solids to assemblages of secondary solids and aqueous species that are stable in weathering environments. The depiction of leaching behavior through solubility and speciation relationships rather than through empirical interpretations of extraction rates allows one to establish bounds for the aqueous concentrations of various elements, given information on the chemistry of waste solids and on physical and chemical conditions. The determination of thermodynamic data and application of those data to understanding the leachate chemistry of the minor elements in the disposal environment remains an area where much research is needed. Research supported by the Electric Power Res. Inst., Palo Alto, CA, under contract 2485-8.
Freshman English For Graduate Students: A Memoir and Two Theories

Sociologists typically have trouble writing. Experience in a seminar devoted to writing suggests that these troubles and the obscurity of much sociological prose arise from the social organization ...
Critical heat flux in helical coils with a circumferential heat flux tilt toward the outside surface

Abstract A study of the forced-convection boiling of R-113 in electrically heated coils with a substantial heat flux tilt toward the outside of the coils is reported. The circumferentially local subcooled critical heat flux (CHF) with a flux tilt is increased or decreased, when compared to a coil without a flux tilt at the same bulk fluid condition, depending on the relative magnitudes of the flux tilt, mass velocity and ratio of tube diameter to coil diameter ( d / D ). Generally, there are increases in the local CHF with decreasing mass velocity and d / D and with increasing flux tilt. The quality region CHF in a coil with a flux tilt is lower than the CHF in a coil without a flux tilt. The subcooled and quality region CHF condition (when unaffected by buoyancy) occurs at the inside surface of the coil and not at the location of highest heat flux. Operational problems, in particular upstream CHF conditions, may occur if a coiled tube is operated with low to moderate subcooling near the inlet and with moderately high heat fluxes.
Coronary Artery Disease in 116 Kindred with Familial Type II Hyperlipoproteinemia

Analysis of cardiovascular status in adult relatives of 116 kindred affected with familial hyperbetalipoproteinemia (type II hyperlipoproteinemia) was carried out to assess coronary artery disease (CAD) risk in relatives with type II (II) compared to unaffected family members. Over 90% of the 738 living relatives were interviewed by one investigator and 12 lead electrocardiograms were obtained. In these, and in 285 deceased relatives, physician and hospital records were utilized to determine CAD events by standard criteria. This study, the largest of its kind, permitted more precise and extensive determination of the CAD risk accompanying severe hyperbetalipoproteinemia than has heretofore been possible. CAD was diagnosed in 29.5% of II9s compared with 10.5% of normal relatives (N) ( P P P = .002). CAD death or myocardial infarction occurred in 10.1% of II9s compared with 1.8% of N9s ( P
Concurrent choice between cues for social interaction and amphetamine in adolescent male and female rats

of this age: Chinese, 13%; Asian Indian, 12%; Filipino, 22%; Vietnamese, 18%. With respect to the targeted migrant hypothesis, for 12–30 yr old Japan-born JA, estimated prevalence is 32%, for US-born JA counterparts, the corresponding estimate is 25% – i.e., noteworthy but not statistically significant. Note that 47% of Japanborn 12-30 yr old JA males were current smokers, as compared to 28% of the US-born JA. Conclusions: Against a background of remarkably large smoking prevalence estimates for some youthful subgroups in US, this study provides a range of novel estimates that are pertinent to 21st century tobacco control policies, and sets a stage for new research on migration and smoking. Financial support: T32DA021129 (WX); MSU(CLQ); K05DA15799 (JCA).
The Rose Rust Fungus, Phragmidium tuberculatum, is Widespread in the Americas: First Reports from California, Oregon, Massachusetts, and Honduras.

The rust fungus Phragmidium tuberculatum Jul. Mull. is a common pathogen on Rosa spp., on which all life cycle stages are formed. Symptoms occur in spring and may include distorted stems, yellow spots on the upper leaf surface, and a bright orange spore mass formed on the abaxial leaf surface. In late summer, sori become speckled with black as fascicles of teliospores develop. The current known distribution of P. tuberculatum is mostly limited to Europe with some occurrence in Asia and into Australasia (2). There is some documented occurrence in North America (Alaska, Connecticut, and Canada [2]), where most rose rust disease is attributed to P. mucronatum (Pers.) Schltdl. This study used a combination of molecular and morphological analyses on newly collected material from across North America (California: BPI877978, PURN7783; Oregon: BPI877980; Massachusetts: BPI877977; and Quebec: BPI877979) and herbarium material from South and Central America (Honduras: BPI864186; and Argentina: BPI843677; both previ...
Evolution in the past tense

Darwin's Dreampond: Drama on Lake Victoria. By Tijs Goldschmidt. (Translated by Sherry Marx-Macdonald.) MIT Press: 1996. Pp. 274. £21.50, $25.
On the existence of a reasonable upper bound for the van der waerden numbers

Abstract Numbers similar to those of van der Waerden are examined. We consider increasing sequences of positive integers { x 1 , x 2 , …, x n } either that form an arithmetic sequence or for which there exists a polynomial f ( x ) = Σ i = 0 n − 2 a i x i with a i ϵ Z , a n − 2 > 0, and x j + 1 = f ( x j ). We denote by q ( n ) the least positive integer such that if {1, 2, …, q ( n )} is 2-colored, then there exists a monochromatic sequence of the type just described. We give an upper bound for q ( n ), as well as values of q ( n ) for n ⩽ 5. A stronger upper bound for q ( n ) is conjectured and is shown to imply the existence of a similar bound on the n th van der Waerden number.
QORG: cloud-based queuing system with strong consistency

Message queuing enables asynchronous communications between loosely coupled components in large-scale distributed systems. Traditional enterprise queueing systems provide strong queuing consistency, but incur high cost and lack elasticity. Cloud-based queueing services are highly elastic and scalable at the cost of reduced consistency. We introduce QORG, a Queue reORGanization messaging system which brings the best of enterprise and cloud-based queuing techniques together. By maintaining a message caching layer and performing just-in-time prefetching of messages from the persistent queue layer, QORG enables fast retrieval of queued messages in FIFO order, without incurring additional overhead to enqueue and dequeue operations.
Microwave experiments on chaotic billiards

We describe experiments using billiard-shaped microwave cavities, to test ideas in quantum chaos. The experimental method for observing cavity resonances to obtain the eigenvalues, and the advantages and limitations of the techniques, including the influence of absorption, are discussed. An experimental technique to obtain a 2D mapping of the wavefunction is described. Results are displayed for 36 of the low-lying wavefunctions of a Sinai billiard cavity consisting of a central disc in a rectangular enclosure. The wavefunctions demonstrate the influence of classical periodic orbits (PO), of which there are two types: non-isolated PO, which avoid the central disc, and isolated PO, which hit the central disc. Scarred states, including those associated with isolated PO, are directly observed.
Fatigue property of semisolid A357 aluminum alloy under different heat treatment conditions

Effect of heat treatment conditions on fatigue property of a semisolid A357 aluminum alloy under cyclic tensile loading was investigated. Comparison of the fatigue property of the semisolid A357 under T5 and T6 heat treatment conditions with other aluminum alloys including conventional casting A357-T6 alloy and four wrought aluminum alloys: 2024-T4, 7075-T6, 5052-T6 and 6061-T6 was made. It is found that the fatigue strength of the semisolid A357 under both heat treatment conditions is much higher than that of the casting A357-T6 alloy, comparable to that of the 6061-T6, but lower than that of the 2024-T4 and 7075-T6. Two-parameter Weibull distribution of fatigue data for the semisolid A357 under the two heat treatment conditions was constructed to show the statistical significance in fatigue lifetime. Fatigue fracture surface of the semisolid A357 under T5 and T6 heat treatment conditions was examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM). In the stable crack propagation region, the semisolid A357-T5 shows fatigue damage species of severely deformed grains, void coalescence, striations and ridgelines, while the A357-T6 displays less plastic deformation as revealed by the fatigue damage features of intergranular cracks, and transgranular cleavage patterns.
The diagnosis of and emergent care for the patient with subarachnoid haemorrhage in resource-limited settings

Non-traumatic subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a neurosurgical emergency that may present similarly to a benign headache, yet poses high morbidity and mortality in what often times are young and otherwise healthy patients. While the diagnosis may be made via several different modalities, not all of these are available to every emergency physician. A high suspicion for SAH along with a good history and physical examination may best serve patients in these resource-limited settings. Adequate resuscitative and supportive care, combined with prompt transfer to a facility with neurosurgical capabilities is integral to optimizing patient outcomes.
Examining relations between interpersonal flexibility, self-esteem, and death anxiety

The relations between interpersonal flexibility, level of self-esteem, and death anxiety in college students were examined. The results indicated that interpersonal flexibility and self-esteem were positively related, but that interpersonal flexibility and death anxiety were not related to each other in a reliable manner. A significant negative relation was found between self-esteem and death anxiety.
Altered Flexibility affects Regulatory Functions of Cardiac α-Tropomyosin (α-Tm) in a Novel Transgenic Mouse Model Expressing α-Tm-D137L

α-Tropomyosin (αTm) is a coiled-coil protein that cooperatively binds actin filaments and serves as a nodal point in control of Ca2+-regulated cardiac muscle dynamics. The protein sequence of αTm consists of heptapeptide repeats of the form a-b-c-d-e-f-g, where a and d are generally apolar residues that mainly determine the stability of the coiled-coil. A highly conserved but unusual, charged Asp137 residue located in the hydrophobic interface (position d) is thought to destabilize the coiled coil and impart flexibility to the molecule. In in vitro and molecular dynamicsstudies, conversion of Asp137 to a more typical canonical Leu has been reported to alter flexibility of Tm and affect its function (1, 2). Our 1H-13C HSQC NMR spectra of reductively methylated αTm may suggest a long-range structural perturbation by the D137L mutation. In vitro motility assay showed an increase in velocity at saturating [Ca2+] suggesting a faster ADP-release rate. In addition to our in vitro studies, we investigated importance of the flexibility of αTm in ejecting hearts with our novel TG-αTm-D137L mouse model. Functional characterization of TG animals indicate altered in situ cardiac function with a reduced myofilament response to Ca2+, impaired systolic function and induction of a dilated phenotype. Our results show that altered flexibility causes a global structural change in αTm and significantly affects its regulatory functions in mice hearts. We suggest that altered cardiac αTm flexibility is an important initial pathophysiological alteration in its function.1. Sumida JP, Wu E, Lehrer SS. 2008. J Biol Chem 283: 6728-34.2. Moore JR, Li X, Nirody J, Fischer S, Lehman W. 2011. BioArchitecture 1: 250-255.
Comprehension of Abstract and Concrete Commands by High and Low Level Aphasic Subjects: Effects of Presentation Mode

This study examined the effects of live voice (LV), tape recorded (TR) and videotape recorded (VTR) presentations on high and low level aphasic subjects' auditory comprehension of abstract and concrete token test commands. Subjects' understanding of Token Test commands was not influenced significantly by mode of presentation. The performances of high-comprehension and low-comprehension aphasic groups was not significantly different. Analysis of weighted token test scores, but not plus-minus scores, showed subjects to perform significantly better on concrete than abstract token test commands. Clinical implications emerging from the study are 1) that the Token Test should probably be delivered by tape recorder to standardize presentation and 2) that the use of recorded stimuli may provide a valuable adjunctive means of providing auditory comprehension training for some aphasic clients.
Appliance rigid foams blown with cyclopentane and cyclopentane/isopentane blends

Since CFC 11 was eliminated from use in rigid foams in the mid 1990s, the blowing agent of choice in North America has primarily been HCFC 141b. In the USA, we are now faced with the phase-out of HCFC 141b by the year 2003. The blowing agent that will replace HCFC 141b must be non-ozone depleting and should also have low thermal conductivity and a low global warming potential. Hydrocarbons are some of the few blowing agents that meet these criteria and are approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to replace HCFC 141b in rigid polyurethane foams for appliance insulation [1]. Of the hydrocarbons being considered, cyclopentane is preferred, either by itself or in blends with other hydrocarbons. This is because of cyclopentane's favorable combination of low thermal conductivity, good solubility in polyols and reasonable boiling point, compared to other hydrocarbons. Not only is the thermal conductivity of cyclopentane lower than that of most other hydrocarbons, it is also lower than that of HFC 134a, another blowing agent which is approved for use after 2002. This paper will examine the effect of two important factors, both theoretically and experimentally, on cyclopentane blown foams. These factors are (1) the amount of blowing obtained from carbon dioxide that is formed from the reaction between water and isocyanate, and (2) the ratio of cyclopentane to isopentane, which is used as the hydrocarbon blowing agent.
Patterns of variability in the satellite microwave sounding unit temperature record: comparison with surface and reanalysis data

Principal component analysis is applied to global temperature records to study the differences in the patterns of variability between surface and troposphere. Surface, Microwave Sounding Unit (lower troposphere, channel 2 and channel 4) and National Centers for Environmental Prediction–National Center for Atmospheric Research reanalysis thickness data are studied in the common period 1979–2000. The patterns of variability are classified into geographical regions and compared. The series of their time coefficients are correlated to assess the existence of common and significant climate-change signals in the form of climatic trends. The objective is to identify the physical processes determining the records' variations and the differences between the surface and the satellite records that might be related to the discrepancy in their globally averaged trend. Major differences were found in the Tropics, where the surface warming is not paralleled in any other record. The surface record has two major patterns over the Tropics, one of which is connected to El Nino–southern oscillation. Satellite variability is instead described by only one pattern, most probably deriving from the merging of the two distinct patterns found for the near-surface records. In the eastern Antarctic a higher troposphere and lower stratosphere negative trend is found connected to ozone depletion. This signal prevails in the satellite record, despite evidence that it is confined only above 500 hPa. A pattern over Siberia is linked to the ‘Euro-Siberian oscillation’, i.e. the change in the pressure field determining the tracks of the Atlantic storms over the area Copyright © 2003 Royal Meteorological Society
Competition for related but nonidentical binding sites on the glycoprotein IIb-IIIa complex by peptides derived from platelet adhesive proteins

Abstract Two distinct sequences of amino acids, RGDS and HHLGGAKQAGDV, each inhibit the binding of fibrinogen, fibronectin, and von Willebrand factor to the platelet membrane glycoprotein IIb-IIIa complex. We have employed radiolabeled, photoactivatable aryl azide derivatives of the two sequences to explore the relationship between the binding sites for these peptides on the glycoprotein IIb-IIIa complex. Each probe specifically labeled only the glycoprotein IIb-IIIa complex of intact platelets. Since each peptide inhibited labeling of the receptor complex by the other, the peptides compete for binding sites on the receptor complex. However, the binding sites do not appear to be identical. Whereas the RGDS probe specifically labeled both glycoproteins IIb and IIIa, the HHLGGAKQAGDV probe specifically labeled only glycoprotein IIb.
Quantitative Determination of Amitriptyline in Blood

Abstract An assay was developed and standardized for amitriptyline and its hydroxylated tertiary amine metabolites in blood and other biological tissues. This method is capable of determining 5–15 ng of these compounds/ml and is based on reacting the drug as base with 9-bro-momethylacridine to form a quaternary product which, on photolysis, yields fluorescence in a stoichiometric fashion. The precision of the method is usually around ±5%.
Homosexual activity in male rats after p-Chlorophenylalanine: Effects of hypophysectomy and testosterone

Abstract Using immature Fisher rats, we found that only males which had been androgen-primed displayed male-male copulatory behavior as a result of p-chlorophenylalanine plus Pargyline treatment. Hypophysectomy of mature Sprague-Dawley males prevented any manifestation of sexual excitation using a similar treatment regimen. We have confirmed p -chlorophenylalanine and Pargyline-induced homosexual excitation in both mature, intact Fisher and Sprague-Dawley male rats. The data suggest that p -chlorophenylalanine plus Pargyline-induced homosexual excitation is dependent upon an intact pituitary in the adult male rat and, in addition, testosterone in the immature male rat.
Obese Gene Expression Alters the Ability of 30A5 Preadipocytes to Respond to Lipogenic Hormones

Leptin, the product of the ob gene, controls food-intake and weight loss in the ob mouse. Although the target(s) of the circulating leptin is presumed to be the brain which then orchestrates food-intake and weight loss, how leptin functions in the process of weight loss is unknown. In this report, we present evidence that ob gene expression in cultured cells suppresses acetyl-CoA carboxylase gene expression and lipid synthesis which are induced by hormone treatment. This is the first example in which leptin has been found to suppress defined biochemical reactions that contribute to lipid accumulation without the participation of the brain.
Multilayered open dielectric waveguide with a gyrotropic layer

Open dielectric waveguides with a gyrotropic layer have been studied with a view to find structures in which the nonreciprocity in the propagation constant is maximized. A prediction based on a qualitative analysis and numerical studies for confirming the theory are included.
Crossing the Color Line: Black Professional Men's Development of Interracial Social Networks

Sociologists have established that social networks often play an important role in hiring, promotions, and occupational mobility. For black workers, however, social networks can be racialized in ways that work to their disadvantage. In this paper, I consider how black professional men develop and maintain interracial social networks with white men and women. I argue that these networks are shaped by intersections of race and gender and are intentionally constructed in response to black professional men’s perceptions of their positioning within male-dominated occupations. Specifically, this paper examines how black men establish social networks with white men, their perceptions of how diverging levels of social capital shape these networks compared to their white male peers, and their observations of ways that women are less advantaged than they are in constructing social networks.