cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Let's Call the Whole Thing Off: Can States Abolish the Institution of Marriage

At several points in her characteristically acute discussion of the debate swirling around same-sex marriage, 1 Professor Nussbaum suggests that perhaps the best solution to the current controversy is for the state to abandon the business of conferring marital status: ―Might a good solution,‖ she asks, ―be for the state to back out of the expressive domain altogether, offering civil unions for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples?‖ 2 The state would replace marriage with a new nomenclature for officially recognizing family relationships, one that would not carry the baggage of tradition that marriage trails behind it like a car with tin cans tied to its bumper after a wedding. Professor Nussbaum‘s tentative proposal raises a number of intriguing issues. First, is it actually possible for a state to ―back out of the expressive domain altogether‖? Second, does the Constitution impose any constraints on a state‘s elimination of civil marriage? I have some skepticism that, as a practical matter, a state can actually avoid the expressive domain. To be sure, official adoption of terms like ―civil union‖ or ―domestic partnership‖ might contribute to the emergence of familial arrangements that depart in material ways from one or more aspects of ―traditional‖ marriage. 3 Calling a relationship a ―civil‖ union, for example, can
Investigating the impact of perturbed visual and proprioceptive information in near-field immersive virtual environment

We report the results of an empirical evaluation to examine the carryover effects of calibrations to one of three perturbations of visual and proprioceptive feedback: i) Minus condition (−20% gain) in which a visual stylus appeared at 80% of the distance of a physical stylus, ii) Neutral condition (0% gain) in which a visual stylus was co-located with a physical stylus, and iii) Plus condition (+20% gain) in which the visual stylus appeared at 120% of the distance of the physical stylus. Feedback was shown to calibrate distance judgments quickly within an IVE, with estimates being farthest after calibrating to visual information appearing nearer (Minus condition), and nearest after calibrating to visual information appearing further (Plus condition).
Thermal and Orographic Mesoscale Atmospheric Systems—An Essay

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses thermal and orographic mesoscale atmospheric systems. The development of quantitative modeling tools to understand and simulate thermal and orographic flows has developed on different tracks. Thermal mesoscale systems can be categorized into land and sea breezes, mountain-valley flows, lake-effect storms, and urban circulations. Thermally induced mesoscale circulations are strongly influenced by nonlinear advection and turbulent diffusion. By greatly simplifying the equations of motion, relatively economical simulations of airflow around and over terrain obstacles can be produced. This chapter concentrates on achievements made by using analytic and numerical modeling. These models suffered from either a need to input a substantial number of observations and/or a requirement to specify a priori the height at which the disturbance in the atmospheric flow due to the orography disappears. As a necessary condition for accurate simulations of airflow over rough terrain, the dominant topographic variations must be represented in the model. Even when the mesoscale system is strongly forced by terrain variability, a realistic specification of the state of the atmosphere for the initialization of model integration is essential for an accurate model simulation.
Association of calmodulin-dependent kinase II and its substrate proteins with neuronal cytoskeleton.

Publisher Summary The neuronal cytoplasm contains a diverse array of interconnecting filamentous and tubular elements. Increasing evidence suggests that the second messenger-dependent phosphorylation systems activated by calcium ions and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) are important regulators of the neuronal cytoskeleton. This chapter reviews the work that indicates that the phosphorylation of cytoskeletal proteins may mediate many of the physiological responses to calcium influx. The importance of calmodulin-dependent kinase activities in regulating cytoskeletal dynamics has been recognized for some time in the well-characterized case of myosin light chain kinase in smooth muscle. In the smooth muscle enzyme system, the phosphorylation of myosin light chains following the influx of calcium ions into the cell stimulates actin–myosin interactions, and thereby induces contraction. No such contractile process has been observed with calmodulin-dependent kinase activity in the brain, but recent evidence has demonstrated the association of brain calmodulin-dependent kinases with the neuronal cytoskeleton. The chapter presents evidence for calmodulin kinase II (CAMK II) phosphorylation of both core and projection proteins. The main cytoskeletally associated projection protein, microtubule-associated protein 2, is phosphorylated by both cyclic AMP-dependent and calmodulin-dependent kinases.
Aspiration in intubated premature infants.

A recent study has shown a 77% incidence of tracheal aspiration in children (mean age 13.4 months) who are intubated with uncuffed endotracheal tubes. To determine both the incidence of such aspiration among premature infants and whether continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has any preventive effect, 20 tracheally intubated neonates were evaluated for the presence of tracheal aspiration of orally placed Evan's blue dye. The overall incidence of aspiration was 80%. Eighteen of these infants were tested during both 4 cm and 6 cm H2O continuous positive airway pressure, and the incidences of aspiration were 72% and 50%, respectively, which is not a statistically significant difference (P less than .17). Ten of these 18 patients were also studied when 2 cm H2O was applied and 60% aspirated. Among all infants who aspirated, compared with those who did not, there was a small but statistically significant decrease in transcutaneous PO2 (P less than .05) as well as an increase in respiratory (P less than .001) and pulse (P less than .01) rates. It is concluded that tracheally intubated neonates frequently aspirate and that clinically useful levels of continuous positive airway pressure are not likely to prevent aspiration.
A multifaceted approach to calcium channel blocker overdose: a case report and literature review

Calcium channel blocker toxicity can be devastating. Initial therapy with fluid, calcium, and adrenoreceptor agonists should be prompt and novel therapies can be added if no response. Determining cardiogenic shock versus vasoplegia with echocardiogram or other hemodynamic monitoring may guide treatment options.
Association of hyperglycemia with increased mortality after severe burn injury.

Background: Hyperglycemia is commonly associated with the hypermetabolic stress response. However, persistent hyperglycemia may adversely affect wound healing and immunity. The purpose of this study was to assess any relationship between hyperglycemia and clinical outcome after severe burn injury. Methods: Survey of the medical records from January 1996 to July 1999 identified 58 pediatric patients with burns ≥ 60% body surface. Patients were categorized as having poor glucose control (n = 33) if ≥ 40% of all plasma glucose determinations were ≥ 7.8 mmol/L (140 mg/dL) and compared with patients deemed to have adequate glucose control (n = 25) in whom ≤ 40% of all glucose values were ≥ 7.8 mmol/L. Results: Despite similar age, burn size, caloric intake, and frequency of wound infection, patients categorized with poor glucose control had a significantly greater incidence of positive blood cultures (positive blood cultures/length of stay days, 0.42 ± 0.04 for hyperglycemia patients vs. 0.30 ± 0.03 for normoglycemia patients; mean ± SEM, p ≤ 0.05). This finding was especially prominent for blood cultures positive for yeast. Hyperglycemia patients had significantly less percentage of skin graft take than did the normoglycemic patients (percent take/operative procedure, 64 ± 9 for hyperglycemia patients vs. 88 ± 5 for normoglycemia patients; p < 0.05). Nine patients (27%) with persistent hyperglycemia died compared with only one death (4%) in patients with adequate glucose control (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: This association between poor glucose control, bacteremia/ fungemia, reduced skin graft take, and subsequent mortality in severely burned children may be related to a hyperglycemia-induced detriment in antimicrobial defense. Although this report fails to establish cause and effect, these findings suggest that aggressive maneuvers to normalize plasma glucose in critically injured patients may be warranted.
Factors influencing rates and products in the transformation of trichloroethylene by iron sulfide and iron metal.

Batch experiments were performed to assess (i) the influence of pH, solution amendments, and mineral aging on the rates and products of trichloroethylene (TCE) transformation by iron sulfide (FeS) and (ii) the influence of pretreatment of iron metal with NaHS on TCE transformation rates. The relative rates of FeS-mediated transformation of TCE to different products were quantified by branching ratios. Both pseudo-first-order rate constants and branching ratios for TCE transformation by FeS were significantly influenced by pH, possibly due to a decrease in the reduction potential of reactive surface species with increasing pH. Neither Mn2+, expected to adsorb to FeS surface S atoms, nor 2,2‘-bipyridine, expected to adsorb to surface Fe atoms, significantly influenced rate constants or branching ratios. FeS that had been aged at 76 °C for 3 days was completely unreactive with respect to TCE over 6.5 months, yet this aged FeS transformed hexachloroethane to tetrachloroethylene with a rate constant only sligh...
An off-center point explosion in a radially stratified medium - Kompaneets approximation

The Kompaneets (1960) approximation is applied to a blast in a medium that is radially stratified according to a power law. The basic equation is derived that gives the location of the shock front as a function of time. This equation is transformed by means of a conformal coordinate transformation into an equation in which the density variation of the medium does not appear. In the new coordinates, and the problem is reduced to that of a blast in a uniform medium, the solution of which is a set of concentric circles about the initial explosion point; in the transformed coordinates, the paths followed by points on the shock front are radial, making it possible to find the paths in the original coordinates. Using the new solution, the effect of the explosion is considered for a solid core embedded at the origin, and the extent of the core's surface that is affected by the blast is calculated.
Crystal structure, resistivity, magnetic susceptibility and heat capacity of a new dense Kondo system: CePtSi2.

We find that ${\mathrm{CePtSi}}_{2}$ crystallizes in the ${\mathrm{CeNiSi}}_{2}$-type orthorhombic structure with lattice parameters a=0.4288(2) nm, b=1.6718(4) nm, and c=0.4238(2) nm. The magnetic resistivity data show that the Ce in ${\mathrm{CePtSi}}_{2}$ has a doublet ground state according to the theory of Cornut and Coqblin. Above 100 K the inverse molar magnetic susceptibility follows a Curie-Weiss law, leading to an effective moment of 2.56${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}_{\mathit{B}}$ per cerium atom and a paramagnetic Curie temperature of -17 K. Down to 70 mK no sign of a transition into a state of long-range magnetic order or a superconducting state was detected by ac susceptibility measurements. The coefficient of the electronic specific heat has a maximum of about 1700 mJ/mol ${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ at 1.25 K.
A study of the presence of accessory foramina and the topography of molar furcations

Abstract Ninety-five maxillary and 100 mandibular first and second molar furcations were studied. All nutrient openings were observed topographically at 30× magnification in the furcation areas and tabulated. The incidence and prominence of intermediate bifurcation ridges occurring in the 100 mandibular molars were determined. Seventy-six per cent of all molars presented openings in the furcation area. Of these, maxillary molars presented an average of 2.51 foramina per furcation; mandibular molars presented 2.14 possible foramina. Intermediate bifurcation ridges were apparent in 76.8 per cent of the mandibular molars.
The Influence of Eccentricity, Contrast, and Angular Extent on the Perception of Peripheral Apparent Motion

Two experiments were performed to investigate the perception of peripherally presented apparent motion as a function of eccentricity of the stimulus, ambient illumination, gender, athletic ability, age, stimuli pattern (diamond, square), and angular extent of stimuli presentation. The experiment task for both studies was to determine the direction of apparent motion for a lighter than background stimulus target presented on a Braumbach perimeter. The results from experiment one indicated main effects for subjects, eccentricity, and age. The results from experiment two indicated main effects for subjects, eccentricity, and angular separation of the apparent motion.
A Problem Ignored: Dilution and Negation of Consumer Information by Antifactual Content

Current conceptions of consumer information do not consider types that may dilute or detract from facts available to consumers about products and services. The article discusses the nature and incidence of such antifactual content, identifies research and public policy that ignores the content but could benefit from recognizing it, and describes a role for the content in conceptualizing and better assessing consumer information, in order to provide researchers, regulators, advertisers, and consumers with more accurate evaluations.
Telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans with an associated myeloproliferative disorder

Telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans (TMEP) is a cutaneous form of mastocytosis. It has been rarely associated with an underlying myeloproliferative disorder. We report the case of a patient, while receiving treatment for thrombocytosis, with both platelet production and function inhibitors presented with TMEP. TMEP is often refractory to therapy; however, our patient responded to treatment with PUVA.
Tophaceous gout mimicking osteomyelitis: the value of musculoskeletal ultrasound in establishing the diagnosis.

The use of musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) in rheumatology is expanding rapidly worldwide.1 Recent studies and clinical experience have increasingly supported US that it can be of great value in the diagnosis of acute and chronic gout.2–5 Acute gouty arthritis is a frequent mimic of infection, and w
Native People's Rights

Ce sont de facteurs sociaux, economiques et politiques que depend la survie des populations indigenes. La protection de certains droits est consideree de premiere importance. L'auteur conclut dans cette optique qu'il est primordial d'acceder a une reconnaissance effective des droits des peuples indigenes et cela, par l'intermediaire de garanties constitutionnelles et de conventions internationales. Les peuples indigenes constituent une force vitale et doivent etre traites de facon a ce qu'ils se realisent
Cellular homologs of the avian erythroblastosis virus erb-A and erb-B genes are syntenic in mouse but asyntenic in man

Avian erythroblastosis virus, a retrovirus that causes erythroblastosis and sarcomas in infected birds, possesses two host cell-derived genes [viral (v) erb-A and erb-B]. Although v-erb-B seems to be responsible for oncogenic transformation, v-erb-A might have an enhancing effect on transformation. In chickens, the natural host for avian erythroblastosis virus, cellular (c) erb-A and erb-B genes appear to be unlinked, but their chromosomal locations in other species are unknown. To ascertain the chromosomal location of c-erb genes in man and mouse, we analyzed interspecies somatic cell and microcell hybrids by Southern filter hybridization techniques using specific v-erb-A and v-erb-B probes. We found c-erb-A sequences on human chromosome 17 (17p11----qter) and located c-erb-B on human chromosome 7 (7pter----q22). In contrast, both c-erb-A and c-erb-B reside on mouse chromosome 11.
Learning ethics in nursing and genetics: Narrative pedagogy and the grounding of values *

An approach to learning is proffered that simultaneously provides new ways of thinking about ethics and genetics. This approach, narrative pedagogy, looks toward the ground of ethics and values in nursing practice and genetics. The ground is Presented here as the beginning of questioning rather than an end, that is, questioning as a horizon, out of which new understandings for ethics and genetics can emerge. Copyright © 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company
Power handling capability of an SOI RF switch

In this study, we define and investigate the maximum power handling capability (Pmax) in an SOI RF shunt branch switch. One of the critical factor in the Pmax is the non-uniform voltage division across an OFF shunt branch. In this study we provide a simple analytical method to determine the stack voltage imbalance. The Pmax is characterized as a function of various parameters, such as, switch stack height, channel length, Gate and Body bias, and process parameters. Overall, we find that the Pmax can be improved by reducing stack imbalance as well as device leakage currents, namely, GIDL.
Incorporating memory constraints in the design of color error diffusion halftoning systems

We analyze color error diffusion with memory constraints. Color error diffusion requires the storage of error terms in an error buffer. We explore memory reduction by representing the error buffer in the YIQ space and allocating a finite number of bits to each channel. The error buffer is represented in a packed-bit format. This constrains the error buffer to a desired bit-width. However such a constraint degrades performance. The degradation is observed as an increase in perceived color quantization noise. We derive an optimal solution for the error filter coefficients which minimize the visual effect of the memory constraint. Our formulation allows the filter coefficients to be matrix-valued allowing cross-channel diffusion of color errors. The optimal filter depends on the color characteristics of the device, viewing distance and the specific bit allocations used for the error buffer and the the rendering frame buffer.
Hypothesis: the classification of epileptic seizures according to systems of the CNS

Several comprehensive classifications of the epilepsies and epileptic syndromes have been proposed and the purpose of the last one (1985) was to supplement the International Classification of Epileptic Seizures as accepted by the General Assembly of the International League Against Epilepsy in 1981. These efforts represent a major contribution to a difficult problem, which must be continued as further scientific advances permit. Categorization according to clinical seizure type is a logical approach, inasmuch as response to antiepileptic medication depends more on seizure type than on etiological or other factors. A limitation of this approach, however, has arisen as a result of the Commission's failure to relate clinical seizure types to the underlying neurophysiology that mediates them. This has resulted in the categorization of absence as a generalized form of seizure along with generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS). On the other hand, temporal lobe seizures (including automatisms) have been categorized as a complex form of partial seizures, which emphasizes their focal origin. It is the belief of the authors that a further clarification might be achieved, if a differentiation of seizure types is made with respect to the underlying CNS circuitry which mediates the sustained discharge that determines the clinical manifestations of each type. Focal origins, while significant, assume a secondary importance, since they do not explain the sustained discharge that mediates clinical seizure types, except in the case of elementary partial seizures (EPS) that remain discretely localized. In contradistinction to GTCS that essentially involve the entire CNS, absence and complex partial seizures (CPS) should be categorized as limited forms of seizures, mediated by bilateral, regional systems.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Two transformation models for estimating an ROC curve derived from continuous data

A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is a plot of two survival functions, derived separately from the diseased and healthy samples. A special feature is that the ROC curve is invariant to any monotone transformation of the measurement scale. We propose and analyse semiparametric and parametric transformation models for this two-sample problem. Following an unspecified or specified monotone transformation, we assume that the healthy and diseased measurements have two normal distributions with different means and variances. Maximum likelihood algorithms for estimating ROC curve parameters are developed. The proposed methods are illustrated on the marker CA125 in the diagnosis of gastric cancer.
The Self-Absorption Scale: Reliability and validity in non-clinical samples

The lack of a measure of self-absorption, an excessive, sustained, and rigid focus on the self, has limited progress in research on the role of attentional processes in psychopathology. We describe the development of a measure of self-absorption that yields scores for private and public self-absorption. Factor analyses indicated that the measure has a clean factor structure, with two correlated factors. In a preliminary validation study using non-clinical participants, we embedded the private and public self-absorption constructs in a nomological network of constructs that implicate attentional processes. Both forms of self-absorption are correlated with a wide array of constructs in a pattern that corresponds to the conceptual definition of the construct. They also evidence incremental validity over their self-consciousness counterparts in associations with key constructs. These preliminary findings provide a firm basis for investigations of the role of self-absorption in psychopathology.
International Cooperation as Interagency Cooperation: Examples from Wildlife and Habitat Preservation

Cooperation between two agencies presents much the same problem whether these agencies are found in different countries or in the same country. This similarity is generally overlooked because the issues over which agencies negotiate often differ—defense and trade policy at the international level, transportation or land use at the domestic level. Demonstrating the analytical similarity of international cooperation to domestic interagency cooperation requires holding issue area constant while allowing interstate and intrastate units to vary. To do this, I focus on cooperation over wildlife and habitat preservation at the domestic and international levels in the US and Canada. I explain this variation in cooperation in a simple theory in which agency goals and certain features of species interact. Variation between successful and unsuccessful cooperation in this issue area is governed solely by characteristics of the species and agency goals in each management unit, and does not depend on whether a problem is “international” or “domestic.” For scholars who think in terms of nation-states interacting in an anarchic international system, this points to a very different unit of analysis. For those who emphasize the domestic politics of international cooperation, this moves us away from executives constrained by legislatures to look at sub-units within each executive.
The relation between cavitation and platelet aggregation during exposure to high-intensity focused ultrasound.

Abstract Our previous study showed that high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is capable of producing “primary acoustic hemostasis” in the form of ultrasound (US)-induced platelet activation, aggregation and adhesion to a collagen-coated surface. In the current study, 1.1 MHz continuous-wave HIFU was used to investigate the role of cavitation as a mechanism for platelet aggregation in samples of platelet-rich plasma. A 5 MHz passive cavitation detector was used to monitor cavitation activity and laser aggregometry was used to measure platelet aggregation. Using spatial average intensities from 0 to 3350 W/cm 2 , the effects of HIFU-induced cavitation on platelet aggregation were investigated by enhancing cavitation activity through use of US contrast agents and by limiting cavitation activity through use of an overpressure system. Our results show that increased cavitation activity lowers the intensity threshold to produce platelet aggregation and decreased cavitation activity in the overpressure system raises the intensity threshold for platelet aggregation. (E-mail: poliachi@u.washington.edu)
A comparison of basaltic volcanism in the Cascades and western Mexico: compositional diversity in continental arcs

Abstract Many physical similarities between the Cascades and western Mexican subduction zones would lead one to believe that volcanism in these two arcs should be similar. Despite the fact that there are four basaltic lava series [calc-alkaline basalt (CAB), intraplate alkaline (IA) basalt, high-alumina olivine tholeiite (HAOT) and high K (lamprophyric and relatively dry potassic)] represented in these arcs, there are significant differences which remain difficult to explain. First is the occurrence of lamprophyric lavas in western Mexico but not the Cascades. Second is the occurrence of HAOT in the Cascades but not western Mexico. The presence of lamprophyric lavas in western Mexico, but not in the Cascades may be due to the presence of older metasomatized upper mantle beneath Mexico. Many explanations have been proposed for the origin of the IA- and HAOT-series including melting of depleted lithospheric mantle, both shallow and deep melting of asthenosphere, and melting of heterogeneous mantle. However, the most compelling and successful idea is that these series result from decompression melting of depleted and/or enriched asthenosphere. Models for the genesis of calc-alkaline basalt series are similar for both arcs — melting of a subduction modified mantle at depths near the base of the crust. Future studies must concentrate on unravelling the importance of source contamination (due to slab dehydration) and crustal contamination.
A Heterologous Prime-Boost Vaccination Strategy Comprising the Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain capB Mutant and Recombinant Attenuated Listeria monocytogenes Expressing F. tularensis IglC Induces Potent Protective Immunity in Mice against Virulent F. tularensis Aerosol Challenge

Francisella tularensis, the causative agent of tularemia, is a category A bioterrorism agent. A vaccine that is safer and more effective than the currently available unlicensed F. tularensis live vaccine strain (LVS) is needed to protect against intentional release of aerosolized F. tularensis, the most dangerous type of exposure. In this study, we employed a heterologous prime-boost vaccination strategy comprising intradermally administered LVS ΔcapB (highly attenuated capB-deficient LVS mutant) as the primer vaccine and rLm/iglC (recombinant attenuated Listeria monocytogenes expressing the F. tularensis immunoprotective antigen IglC) as the booster vaccine. Boosting LVS ΔcapB-primed mice with rLm/iglC significantly enhanced T cell immunity; their splenic T cells secreted significantly more gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and had significantly more cytokine (IFN-γ and/or tumor necrosis factor [TNF] and/or interleukin-2 [IL-2])-producing CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells upon in vitro IglC stimulation. Importantly, mice primed with LVS ΔcapB or rLVS ΔcapB/IglC, boosted with rLm/iglC, and subsequently challenged with 10 50% lethal doses (LD50) of aerosolized highly virulent F. tularensis Schu S4 had a significantly higher survival rate and mean survival time than mice immunized with only LVS ΔcapB (P < 0.0001); moreover, compared with mice immunized once with LVS, primed-boosted mice had a higher survival rate (75% versus 62.5%) and mean survival time during the first 21 days postchallenge (19 and 20 days for mice boosted after being primed with LVS ΔcapB and rLVS ΔcapB/IglC, respectively, versus 17 days for mice immunized with LVS) and maintained their weight significantly better (P < 0.01). Thus, the LVS ΔcapB-rLm/iglC prime-boost vaccination strategy holds substantial promise for a vaccine that is safer and at least as potent as LVS.
The evolution of abdominal compression in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Objective: To review the history of external abdominal compression as an adjunct to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), tracking the development of five major themes over the course of the 20th century: 1) augmentation of peripheral resistance by physical means, 2) risk of hepatic injury with abdominal compression, 3) counterpulsation vs sustained compression, 4) the abdominal pump mechanism, and 5) contact compression techniques. Methods: Literature retrieved from successive MEDLINE English-language searches was reviewed with a special emphasis on work and concepts highlighted by participants at the First Purdue Conference on Interposed Abdominal Compression-CPR, September 1992. Results: External abdominal compression of one form or another has been studied as a means of resuscitation by many investigators throughout the 20th century. Experimental and clinical studies have shown generally consistent evidence of hemodynamic augmentation by abdominal compression during various forms of CPR. Recent advances include a modified theoretical understanding of hemodynamic mechanisms and demonstration of clinical potential in humans. Inconsistencies in published results may be due to differences in mechanical techniques of abdominal compression. Based on these studies, a modified manual technique for “contact compression” of the abdominal aorta is recommended. Conclusions: A technique for left-of-center, angled compression of the abdominal aorta against the crest of the spine is recommended. Further well-supervised and controlled clinical trials using this standardized technique are warranted as a prelude to more widespread clinical application of abdominal compression in CPR.
From care plan to concept map: A paradigm shift

Abstract Nurses and nursing student must develop and write nursing care plan to provide and organize nursing interventions. Nursing care plans serve as a means of communicating patient care needs between members of the interdisciplinary care team. Traditional linear care plans did not met the educational and functional needs of current nursing students. In an effort to improve nursing students' clinical reasoning and recognition of interrelatedness of patient data, the traditional care plan format was changed to concept mapping. This article describes the integration of concept mapping in an Associate Degree Nursing program.
Determining the capacity of a transportation system—Passenger airlines

Abstract Capacity measurement is critical to the evaluation of the effectiveness with which existing output capabilities are being utilized, of the potential effects of re-allocating current facilities among the mix of products and services which the given system can provide, and of the prospective effects of investments in additional major capital goods. This paper illustrates how the multiple dimensions of capacity may be encompassed for complex transportation systems, as illustrated by passenger airlines.
Ion beam studies of H and He in metals

Abstract The use of ion beams to study hydrogen and helium in metals is demonstrated. The 3He (d,p)4He nuclear reaction previously has been used together with ion channeling to determine the lattice locations of ion-implanted D and 3He in tungsten. Preliminary results applying these techniques to helium bubble and blister formation in tungsten are also presented and show that changes attributed to helium bubble formation are observed in tungsten at a He fluence as low as 6 × 1016 He/cm2. The retention of ion-implanted deuterium in W, Au, and Pd surfaces is shown to be greatly enhanced by prior He ion-induced lattice damage. The amount of the damage trapping is also found to depend on whether the metal is in single crystal or polycrystalline form.
RESEARCH LETTER: Pre-hospital care in Valparaíso – an integrated emergency network within the San Antonio Regional Health Service in Chile

To the Editor: In 1993 Valparaiso San Antonio Health Service initiated an Organizational Development Programme that included all facilities, extending from the six major hospitals to the 26 primary care clinics of the region. The programme adopted Quality Management as its model, without discarding other concepts and methods of proven effectiveness (see Walton 1992; Al-Asaf 1993; Ishikawa 1993). In 1994 the Health Service Council identified the emergency care system as a model in need of great improvement and considered the incorporation of pre-hospital care as a top priority. The challenge was to implement a new system, affordable with a small budget, with greater satisfaction for staff and users, better coordinated and more responsive to local needs (see Ministere de la Sante 1992). Quality management techniques were used to adapt and develop a new model, essentially designed by local staff, based on the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) and other relevant literature (Burnett & Grover 1996; Grijseels et al. 1996; Gwinnutt & Driscoll 1996; Hu & Kao 1996; Jabbour et al. 1996; Boyington 1995). A ‘network’ model rather than a centralized one was chosen and implemented at a very low direct cost, optimizing existing resources.
Two puffs of 90 μg albuterol prior to 3% saline sputum induction results in less FEV-1 decline than single concentration 25 mg/ml methacholine challenge

BACKGROUND Assessment of sputum eosinophilia has shown benefit in the diagnosis and monitoring of asthma. However, the possibility of bronchospasm related to the hypertonic saline used in sputum induction appears to have limited this procedure's acceptance in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE Because the methacholine (MCH) challenge has been widely accepted as safe in the diagnosis of mild asthma, we sought to compare the safety of SI with 3% hypertonic saline following pretreatment with 2 puffs of 90 microg albuterol to that of a single concentration 25 mg/mL MCH challenge. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of 152 consecutive subjects, 57 with mild asthma and the remaining with other respiratory problems who had undergone both a SI and a MCH challenge at our single site tertiary care referral center. RESULTS Median reduction of FEV-1 in subjects with and without asthma (n=152) was 9.95% in the MCH group compared to 35% in the SI group (p value < 0.0001). FEV-1 was reduced in excess of 20% in 33 of 152 (21.7%) MCH challenge tests compared to 1 of 152 (0.66%) SI. Median reduction of FEV-1 in asthmatic subjects (n=57) was 17.86% in the MCH group compared to 32% in the SI group (p value < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS With regard to potential bronchoconstriction, we conclude that 2 puffs of 90 microg albuterol administered prior to 3% saline sputum induction results in less FEV-1 decline than single concentration 25 mg/mL MCH.
The advance of the retail health clinic market: the liability risk physicians may potentially face when supervising or collaborating with other professionals.

The first retail health clinic opened in Minnesota in 2001 after the frustration a father, and future MinuteClinic cofounder, experienced during a long wait at an urgent care center for treatment of his son’s strep throat.1 CVS Caremark Corporation, the largest retail pharmacy in the United States, acquired MinuteClinic in 2006, further strengthening the foothold of retail health care clinics throughout the country. During the first 5 years, the industry added only 29 clinics before rapidly increasing by more than 10-fold between 2006 and 2008.2 By 2008, the world’s largest retailer, Wal-Mart, had also entered the retail clinic market, adding to the almost 1000 clinics at that time.1 This accelerated trend reversed in 2009, reflected by the industry closing approximately 5% of outlets that year.2 As early as 2007, significant future growth in the market was expected, with predictions of up to 6000 clinics by the end of 2012.3 Despite this early optimism, as of June 2011, only a total of 1227 retail clinics are now in operation, slightly up from 1197 reported in February 2010.2-5 Although the overall profitability of these clinics has been questioned, recent health care reform efforts are forecast to increase consumer demand for retail health clinic services well into the future.2,3,6 A combination of newly insured individuals after implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) with an ongoing shortage of primary care physicians may lead to increased retail clinic use.3 The difficulty in access to health care practitioners that the newly insured may experience has raised fears that they will seek future care in expensive emergency department settings.2 A 2010 report exploring ways to reduce future health care costs in New York State argued that expanding access to retail health clinics could help reduce health care expenditures by $350 million between 2011 and 2020.2 To sustain economic viability, retail health clinic practice models largely rely on nonphysician practitioners to provide care. State regulations vary on the degree of physician oversight these practitioners require. With the predicted increased demand for care provided by retail clinics, the number of physicians who may be involved with supervising or collaborating with these practitioners will likely increase as well. Although no reported malpractice liability claim has been filed against a retail health clinic or their practitioners to date, physicians may find themselves at greater risk in the future. This commentary first describes the current financial and practice models in today’s retail health clinic environment. This sets the foundation for exploring the potential future liability risk impacting physicians contracted to oversee the care provided in the retail health clinic sector.
Good-in-good-out: Diet modification in chronic kidney disease

The pandemic of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has spurred intense interest in ways to retard the progression of renal failure and improve patient survival. Management of patients during the early stages of CKD influences their survival even after initiation of renal replacement therapy, such as
Symptom profile and asthma control in school-aged children

Background Children with poorly controlled asthma are at high risk of airway remodeling, sleep disruption, school absenteeism, and limited participation in activities. Objective To determine asthma prevalence and characterize disease severity and burden in school-aged children. Method A case-finding study was conducted via a multiple-choice questionnaire and asthma algorithm. Items used for analysis include physician diagnosis of asthma, symptom severity, and health care utilization. The χ 2 test was used to determine the significance of differences among cases. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of patient factors and asthma indicators. Results Of the 5,417 children surveyed, 1,341 (25%) were classified as being at risk of asthma. Of these asthma cases, 55% were positive by diagnosis and algorithm (active), 10% were positive per algorithm alone (suspected), and 35% were positive per diagnosis alone (nonactive). Only 14% of all asthma cases reported experiencing no respiratory symptoms ( Discussion Prevalence of active symptoms suggestive of poor asthma control was extremely high among urban, minority children enrolled in Arkansas' largest public school district. Poor asthma control greatly affects quality of life, including school attendance and performance. Interventions should raise expectations and emphasize the importance of achieving asthma control.
An Energy-Efficient, Adiabatic Electrode Stimulator With Inductive Energy Recycling and Feedback Current Regulation

In this paper, we present a novel energy-efficient electrode stimulator. Our stimulator uses inductive storage and recycling of energy in a dynamic power supply. This supply drives an electrode in an adiabatic fashion such that energy consumption is minimized. It also utilizes a shunt current-sensor to monitor and regulate the current through the electrode via feedback, thus enabling flexible and safe stimulation. Since there are no explicit current sources or current limiters, wasteful energy dissipation across such elements is naturally avoided. The dynamic power supply allows efficient transfer of energy both to and from the electrode and is based on a DC-DC converter topology that we use in a bidirectional fashion in forward-buck or reverse-boost modes. In an exemplary electrode implementation intended for neural stimulation, we show how the stimulator combines the efficiency of voltage control and the safety and accuracy of current control in a single low-power integrated-circuit built in a standard .35 μm CMOS process. This stimulator achieves a 2x-3x reduction in energy consumption as compared to a conventional current-source-based stimulator operating from a fixed power supply. We perform a theoretical analysis of the energy efficiency that is in accord with experimental measurements. This theoretical analysis reveals that further improvements in energy efficiency may be achievable with better implementations in the future. Our electrode stimulator could be widely useful for neural, cardiac, retinal, cochlear, muscular and other biomedical implants where low power operation is important.
Association of DNA synthesis with the nuclear membrane in sea urchin embryos.

THERE is considerable evidence implicating the cell membrane as the site for DNA replication in prokaryotic systems1–3. Several laboratories have considered the possibility that the nuclear membrane may serve a similar role in eukaryotes. This model has been supported by biochemical studies in various eukaryotic cell systems4–8. But, autoradiographic analyses in mammalian cells, that previously indicated that DNA synthesis was initiated at the nuclear membrane9,10, now provide the strongest evidence against an involvement of the nuclear membrane in DNA synthesis11–13. The sea urchin system presents several advantages for studies of DNA synthesis. On fertilisation a population of dormant unfertilised eggs begins a series of very rapid cellular divisions, the first three of which are naturally synchronous. Biochemical studies with this system have suggested that rapid replication of DNA occurs at a nuclear membrane site and that DNA may be associated with the site only during the period of DNA synthesis14. We therefore decided to undertake an autoradiographic study in the sea urchin embryo. The results presented here strongly support the role of the nuclear membrane in the synthesis of DNA.
Veterinary perspectives of infertility in male great apes

Diagnosis and therapy of infertility in male great apes is not extensively documented. Current suspicion that male infertility is a significant cause of reproductive failure in captive populations of great apes prompted this discussion of veterinary andrology in the ape. The differential diagnosis of infertility in the great ape must include consideration of the numerous pathways of psychoendocrine disease. We must develop methods of preventing and treating neurogenic as well as organic causes of infertility. The rationale for classifying problems of subfertility as primary testicular failure, secondary testicular failure, and normal testicular function is presented along with a current list of pharmacological compounds used to treat infertility. Specific pathological conditions and infections of the male reproductive tract that the veterinary clinician should be familiar with are presented. The implications of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydial urethritis, genital herpes, and Mycoplasma infection in the great ape are reviewed. The immunological aspects of male ape infertility and therapeutic regimens that may have application are briefly discussed. Our broadening responsibilities to enhance the successful breeding of apes in captivity dictate that the veterinary clinician expand his knowledge and ability to treat male infertility.
Drosophila SIN3 is required at multiple stages of development.

SIN3 is a component of a histone deacetylase complex known to be important for transcription repression. While multiple isoforms of SIN3 have been reported, little is known about their relative expression or role in development. Using a combination of techniques, we have determined that SIN3 is expressed throughout the Drosophila life cycle. The pattern of expression for each individual isoform, however, is distinct. Knock down of all SIN3 expression reveals a requirement for this protein in embryonic and larval periods. Taken together, the data suggest that SIN3 is required for multiple developmental events during the Drosophila life cycle. Developmental Dynamics 237:3040–3050, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Temporal weighting of interaural time and level differences in high-rate click trains

Temporal weighting functions (TWFs), quantifying sensitivity to interaural time differences (ITD) and interaural level differences (ILD) over the duration of brief stimuli, were measured in 6 normal hearing subjects using trains of 16 Gabor clicks centered at 4 kHz presented dichotically at 4 rates [inter-click intervals (ICI) of 10, 5, 2.5, and 1.25 ms]. Random ITD or ILD were imposed independently on each click in the train in separate conditions. The subject’s task was to discriminate the lateral position of the click train (“left” or “right”). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was then used to quantify the effectiveness or “weight” of each click according to individual click ITD or ILD. Although individual differences were evident, onset cues appeared to dominate at high rates. Onset dominance was apparent for both ITD and ILD at 1.25 ms ICI and for ITD at 2.5 ms ICI, but for neither cue at 5 or 10 ms ICI. Onset dominance was greater on average for ITD than ILD, although TWFs were qualitatively similar for the two cues. No evidence was found for “upweighting” of late-arriving ILD [Stecker, G. C., and Hafter, E. R. (2009), J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 125, 3914–3924].
Fears in children and adolescents: normative data.

Abstract The present study examined the frequency, intensity and factor structure of fear in boys and girls between 7 and 18 yr of age. All youths were administered the Revised Fear Survey Schedule for Children (FSSC-R). Results indicated that girls evinced quantitative and qualitative differences from boys in the intensity and structure of their self-reported fears. Chronological age differences were not found, however, suggesting that boys and girls across these age ranges reported a similar level and structure of fear. The present study establishes the utility of the FSSC-R for these various age ranges and provides valuable normative data regarding its use.
A Survey of Interconnection Networks

Concurrent processing depends on interconnection networks for communication among processors and memory modules. Various network topologies and switching strategies are covered here.