cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abnormal postoperative interventricular motion: New intraoperative transesophageal echocardiographic evidence supports a novel hypothesis

Abnormal interventricular septal motion is a frequent finding after cardiac surgery. However, the time course and underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Nineteen patients, mean age 54 years (range 20 to 82 years), were studied with intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography at five specific times: with the chest closed (baseline), with the chest open and the pericardium closed, with both chest and pericardium open, after cardiopulmonary bypass with the chest open, and after cardiopulmonary bypass with the chest closed. In each patient interventricular septal motion was recorded from the transgastric view; tricuspid annular motion and Doppler color flow mapping of tricuspid regurgitation were obtained from the four-chamber view. All the echocardiographic data were stored on videotape and were later viewed in random sequence by one investigator who was aware of the baseline stage but was blinded to the other stages. All patients had normal septal motion before cardiopulmonary bypass. After cardiopulmonary bypass, with the chest still open, 5 of 17 patients (29%) with adequate recordings had abnormal septal motion while 13 of 17 patients (76%) with adequate recordings had abnormal tricuspid annular motion. After chest closure, only three patients (14%) had normal septal motion and one patient (6%) had normal tricuspid annular motion. Significant tricuspid regurgitation was an infrequent finding in all cases. It is concluded that abnormal interventricular septal motion occurs after cardiopulmonary bypass and is related to abnormal tricuspid annular motion. We hypothesize that suboptimal right ventricular myocardial preservation impairs the motion pattern of the right ventricle, including the tricuspid anulus. This factor alone or with the addition of acute mechanical restriction of the edematous heart by the chest wall may impair right ventricular free wall motion sufficiently to cause recruitment of the interventricular septum toward the right ventricle to maintain right ventricular stroke volume.
Authigenic phillipsite in lacustrine sediments, Taylor Valley, Antarctica

Abstract During a time of more extensive alpine glaciation, small lakes existed at two locations on bedrock benches far above the floor of Taylor Valley. One of the lakes was dammed by an expanded alpine glacier, but the other was located in a bedrock basin which probably has been re-flooded on a number of occasions. Local volcanic activity produced vitric ash which was washed into the lakes and subsequently altered to the zeolite phillipsite in the alkaline, saline lake waters.
Phosphorylation of threonine 210 and the role of serine 137 in the regulation of mammalian polo-like kinase

The mammalian polo-like kinase (Plk) plays a critical role in M-phase progression. Plk is phosphorylated and activated by an upstream kinase(s), which has not yet been identified in mammalian cells. Phosphopeptide mapping and phosphoamino acid analyses of Plk labeled in vivo and phosphorylated in vitro by Xenopus polo-like kinase kinase-1 (xPlkk1) or by lymphocyte-oriented kinase, its most closely related mammalian enzyme, indicate that Thr-210 is a major phosphorylation site in activated Plk from mitotic HeLa cells. Although the amino acid sequence surrounding Ser-137 is similar to that at Thr-210 and is conserved in Plk family members, Ser-137 is not detectably phosphorylated in mitotic mammalian cells or by xPlkk1 in vitro. Nevertheless, the substitution of either Thr-210 or Ser-137 with Asp (T210D or S137D) elevates the kinase activity of Plk. The kinase activity of the double mutant S137D/T210D is not significantly different from that of T210D or S137D, demonstrating that substitution of both residues does not have an additive effect on Plk activity. Expression of the S137D mutant construct arrested HeLa cells in early S-phase with slightly separated centrosomes, whereas cells expressing wild type and T210D were arrested or delayed in M-phase. These data indicate that the Ser-137 may have an unexpected and novel role in the function of Plk.
Stomatal Opening in Isolated Epidermal Strips of Vicia faba. I. Response to Light and to CO2-free Air

This paper reports a consistent and large opening response to light + CO(2)-free air in living stomata of isolated epidermal strips of Vicia faba. The response was compared to that of non-isolated stomata in leaf discs floating on water; stomatal apertures, guard cell solute potentials and starch contents were similar in the 2 situations. To obtain such stomatal behavior, it was necessary to float epidermal strips on dilute KCl solutions. This suggests that solute uptake is necessary for stomatal opening.The demonstration of normal stomatal behavior in isolated epidermal strips provides a very useful system in which to investigate the mechanism of stomatal opening. It was possible to show independent responses in stomatal aperture to light and to CO(2)-free air.
Chlorine-catalyzed oxidative pyrolysis of methane : A parametric study

Abstract Conversion of methane and monochtoromethane to acetylene, ethane, and ethylene via homogeneous oxidative pyrolysis is investigated in an isothermal continuous flow reactor employing steam and/or oxygen as oxidizing agents. The effects of monochloromethane to methane ratio in the feed (0.304−9.981), reactor temperature (973−1423 K), and reactor space time (0.0−3.76 s) on product distribution in the reactor effluent are studied. Steam is shown to be a more effective oxidizing agent than oxygen as far as production of C2 species is concerned. Addition of steam in the feed suppresses formation of coke, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. The efficacy of oxidative pyrolysis with steam is demonstrated by the substantially high selectivity of C2 species (up to 74%).
The Exopolysaccharide Matrix A Virulence Determinant of Cariogenic Biofilm

Many infectious diseases in humans are caused or exacerbated by biofilms. Dental caries is a prime example of a biofilm-dependent disease, resulting from interactions of microorganisms, host factors, and diet (sugars), which modulate the dynamic formation of biofilms on tooth surfaces. All biofilms have a microbial-derived extracellular matrix as an essential constituent. The exopolysaccharides formed through interactions between sucrose- (and starch-) and Streptococcus mutans-derived exoenzymes present in the pellicle and on microbial surfaces (including non-mutans) provide binding sites for cariogenic and other organisms. The polymers formed in situ enmesh the microorganisms while forming a matrix facilitating the assembly of three-dimensional (3D) multicellular structures that encompass a series of microenvironments and are firmly attached to teeth. The metabolic activity of microbes embedded in this exopolysaccharide-rich and diffusion-limiting matrix leads to acidification of the milieu and, eventually, acid-dissolution of enamel. Here, we discuss recent advances concerning spatio-temporal development of the exopolysaccharide matrix and its essential role in the pathogenesis of dental caries. We focus on how the matrix serves as a 3D scaffold for biofilm assembly while creating spatial heterogeneities and low-pH microenvironments/niches. Further understanding on how the matrix modulates microbial activity and virulence expression could lead to new approaches to control cariogenic biofilms.
7.7.3 The Requirements Engineering Process Design for Six Sigma

Many software projects continue to be over budget, over schedule, and fail despite the tools created for managing the life cycle and the continuous improvement efforts. A great number of the problems in systems development projects is caused by poor requirements management processes. The failure to understand the reasons behind the low quality requirements, to understand the relationship between the quality of requirements and requirements engineering process, and to take no actions for increasing the quality of requirements by eliminating the causes behind those effects result in increased cost, low reliability and maintainability, and a system that does not meet the stakeholders' requirements. The aim of this research, the Requirements Engineering Process Design for Six Sigma (REDFSS), is to improve the quality of requirements using Six Sigma methodology along with a set of metrics and tools to identify the low quality requirements and offer corrective actions to overcome the quality issues and identify and eliminate the causes for defects and help requirements engineers to make better judgments.
The effect of lower body weight support on arterial wave reflection in healthy adults

Body weight support (WS) during treadmill exercise is used to rehabilitate orthopedic/neurological patients. WS lowers musculoskeletal strain and load. It compresses the lower body and increases intrathoracic volume. We studied short-term effects of WS on wave reflection indices using applanation tonometry during progressive WS of 25%, 50%, and 75% of body weight in 25 healthy men. WS decreased mean heart rate from 79 to 69 beats/min (P < .001). Peripheral and central mean arterial, systolic, and pulse pressures (PP) remained unchanged. There was a trend toward lower peripheral and central diastolic pressure. PP amplification ratio decreased significantly (P = .005). Reflected wave characteristics: Augmented pressure and index increased in a stepwise manner with WS (both P < .001). Both ejection duration and systolic duration of the reflected pressure wave (Atr) increased progressively (both P < .001). The round-trip travel time (Δtp) was unchanged. Left ventricular workload and oxygen demand: Left ventricular wasted pressure energy increased (P < .001), and the subendocardial viability ratio decreased (P = .005), whereas the tension time index remained unchanged. In normal men, WS acutely decreases the PP amplification ratio, increases the amplitude and duration of the reflected aortic pressure wave, and increases measures of wasted left ventricular pressure energy and oxygen demand.
Applications of field emission to chemisorption

Abstract A brief review of the principal applications of field emission techniques to chemisorption on metals is presented. These include work function measurements on single crystal planes, adsorbate diffusion, including diffusion on single planes, measurements of desorption rates and activation energies of desorption, field emission distributions, and finally the use of field emitters as sensitive detectors in desorption and reflection measurements.
Jacques Lacan and the Theory of the Human Subject: How Psychoanalysis Can Help Public Administration

Theoretical development in the field of public administration is impaired by its implicit, unacknowledged commitment to the incompatible ontology of economics. This ontological commitment restricts...
Use of the Rapid-Visco-Analyzer to Measure Starch Pasting Properties†. Part I: Effect of Sugars

The Rapid Visco-Analyzer (RVA) was used to measure the effects of dextrose, sucrose, corn syrup solids and polydextrose on maize, tapioca and wheat starch pasting properties. The addition of 1 part sugar: 1 part starch tended to decrease peak viscosity, whereas peak viscosity increased at higher sugar concentrations (up to 4 parts sugar: 1 part starch). Time to onset of viscosity increase and time to peak viscosity increased as sugar concentrations increased. Dextrose, sucrose and corn syrup solids increased the maximum setback viscosity, of the starches, but polydextrose reduced setback viscosity. As the molecular weights of the sugars increased, the effects generally increased for maize and tapioca starches but not for wheat starch. Pasting property parameters measured in the RVA concurred with data obtained using other viscometers or by other techniques previously reported. The RVA is useful as an alternative tool for studying starch pasting properties and the effects of food ingredients on starch performance.
Children's Use of the Wh Question Modal Auxiliary Placement Rule.

Abstract Three studies assessed children's knowledge of the wh question modal auxiliary placement rule by asking the children to imitate (and in Study 3 judge the correctness of) grammatical and ungrammatical model wh questions. The results suggest that children learn to apply this rule to questions beginning with one or two wh words, then to questions beginning with another wh word, and so on, rather than to all relevant question types simultaneously, indicating that the acquisition of this syntactic rule is initially relatively specific. However, the results also demonstrate that children overgeneralize the wh question modal auxiliary placement rule to how come questions, indicating that during the course of development this initially specific rule becomes generally productive. The theoretical implications of this specific-to-general developmental pattern are discussed.
Lithium-associated thyroiditis.

Objective: To report an unusual case of thyrotoxicosis caused by "silent thyroiditis" in a lithium-treated patient and to summarize all prior case reports of lithium-associated thyroiditis and comp...
Microsurgical management of male infertility.

Surgical techniques for the management of male infertility give some couples the chance to conceive naturally, without the aid of assisted reproductive technology (ART). In this article, microsurgical techniques for the treatment of obstructive azoospermina and varicocele are reviewed. Sperm retrieval methods for ART in men with nonobstructive azoospermia and in those for whom surgery is unsuccessful are also discussed. The introduction of microsurgical techniques has revolutionized the treatment of male infertility. As a result of technical advances and innovation over the past 10–15 years, previously infertile couples are now able to conceive naturally or to parent their own biological children with the aid of assisted reproductive technologies. This article reviews the indications, techniques, and outcomes of the various microsurgical procedures currently used to optimize male fertility. The most up-to-date methods of microsurgical vasal and epididymal reconstruction, sperm retrieval, and varicocele repair are discussed.
Psychophysiological disorders among buprenorphine patients

In this study, we examined the prevalence of 14 psychophysiological disorders among 114 opioid-dependent individuals (a sample that previously evidenced high rates of borderline personality) as well as the relationship between these disorders and borderline personality. In the aftermath of analyses, only migraine headaches (28.9%) and chronic pain (33.3%) demonstrated relatively high frequency rates in this sample. Only migraine headaches showed a significant relationship with the diagnosis of borderline personality symptoms. In conclusion, in an opioid-dependent population, the prevalence of psychophysiological disorders appears to be rather unremarkable.
Intraventricular cryptococcal cysts masquerading as racemose neurocysticercosis.

Abstract Background Cryptococcal infections of the CNS are infrequent in immunocompetent hosts. When present, they usually present as meningitis and hydrocephalus or as fungal masses called cryptococcomas. We report a case in which intraventricular cryptococcal cysts clinically and radiologically simulated the racemose form of neurocysticercosis. Case Description A 23-year-old man presented to the emergency department with a 1-week history of severe headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and some lethargy. A computed tomography scan revealed significant hydrocephalus. The patient was admitted to the hospital and immediately underwent a right ventriculostomy tube placement. CSF examination showed a meningitic pattern. Magnetic resonance imaging, including FLAIR images, showed multiple large cysts in the temporal horns of both lateral ventricles in addition to hydrocephalus. When an endoscopic left temporal cyst fenestration failed to decompress his trapped right temporal horn, he underwent placement of a left lateral ventricle to peritoneal shunt and a right temporal cyst to peritoneal shunt. ELISA test results for HIV-1 and -2 antibodies in the patient's serum were negative. His CD4 and CD8 counts were within normal limits. Multiple tests for CSF anticysticercal antibody using IgG ELISA gave unequivocally negative results. Latex agglutination tests detected Cryptococcus neoformans antigen in his CSF in titers of 1:1024, which progressively decreased in response to antifungal therapy. The patient underwent treatment with IV amphotericin B for 7 weeks, IV 5-FC for 2 weeks, and oral fluconazole for 5 weeks. At discharge, 3 consecutive CSF cultures were negative for bacteria and fungi. His neurologic status returned to baseline. Conclusions Cryptococcal CNS infections in immunocompetent hosts can mimic the intraventricular form of racemose neurocysticercosis. Distinguishing between the two is essential because the medical management of the 2 conditions is distinct from each other.
Photodynamic Therapy Of Cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used experimentally in cancer patients since 1976, with an estimated 3,000-4,000 patients treated world-wide, most since 1982. Phase III, comparative randomized clinical trials are under way for regulatory approval of Photofrin® II, a purified version of hematoporphyrin derivative (Hpd). Several recent advances in both the clinical application of PDT and basic understanding of mechanisms are noteworthy. For example, it is now recognized that the photosensitizer undergoes photobleaching during treatment which may provide a therapeutic advantage in treatment. Clinical trials using lower drug doses seem to be consistent with this expectation. Advances in light delivery systems and dosimetry have also been achieved. It is now clear that in at least some experimental animal tumors, destruction of the vasculature system in both the tumor and surrounding normal tissue is necessary for 'cure', a process which may involve release of inflammatory and other factors. It is unclear if this is relevant to humans. Because of the problem of cutaneous photosensitivity and other factors, a search for other photo-sensitizers is being carried out by several groups, with early encouraging results being reported for certain phthalocyanines, purpurins and others.© (1989) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
α2‐Macroglobulin synthesis by the human monocytic cell line THP‐1 is differentiation state‐dependent

Human alpha 2-macroglobulin (alpha 2M) is a broad spectrum proteinase inhibitor and cytokine carrier synthesized by a number of cell types including monocytes and macrophages. In this study, we report on the expression of alpha 2M by THP-1 cells. This monocytic cell line can be differentiated into a macrophage-like phenotype by treatment with interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). alpha 2M was synthesized by THP-1 cells at a rate of 75 ng/10(6) cells/24 h, as determined by Western blot analysis. After treating the cells with 500 U/ml of IFN-gamma or with 100 ng/ml PMA, the synthesis rate increased to 219 ng/10(6) cells/24 h and to 179 ng/10(6) cells/24 h, respectively. The same agents also increased alpha 2M expression, as determined by Northern blot analysis. When the alpha 2M receptor antagonist, receptor associated protein (RAP), was included in the THP-1 medium, the amount of alpha 2M recovered in the conditioned medium increased. This result suggests that THP-1-secreted proteinases react with secreted alpha 2M and that the resulting complexes are catabolized by the alpha 2M receptor, which is also called low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP). We conclude that alpha 2M synthesis by THP-1 cells depends on the state of cellular differentiation. Reaction of alpha 2M with secreted proteinases may have minimized previous estimates of the rate of synthesis of alpha 2M by certain cells in culture.
We Are Not Ready to Assess History Performance

Americans have never considered learning history to be an end in itself. Instruction about history and the development of political institutions (civics) has always been justified as an exercise that would produce better citizens, however blandly defined. Yet educators have never successfully explained how the content of history or civics curricula promotes the stated goal of good citizenship. Even when educators duck this problem of means and ends and treat history and civics instruction as an end in itself, they have no realistic expectations of what students should learn. Most definitions of student proficiency are corrupted by nostalgia for alleged past achievement levels that never existed.
Research and Industry Partnership in Nutrient Calculation Software Development

Abstract Research dietitians have unique computational needs not satisfied by currently available dietetic software. A nutrient calculation and food management software system called ProNutra was developed in partnership with researchers and industry from two National Centers for Research Resources (NCRR) at the National Institutes of Health Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants. Procedures involved in designing research diets were determined by interviewing researchers and specifications were written to facilitate the work described. Key tasks described by researchers included planning the study schedule, developing the diet prescription, planning menu(s) to match the prescription, describing the subjects, adjusting menu to subject needs, generating directions for preparing diets, calculating actual food consumption and exporting nutrient intake data for analysis. Linear programming was used to facilitate the design of diets to match nutrient prescriptions. Software has the potential to increase the accuracy and efficiency in diet design and provide standardization among centers conducting similar studies. Diet calculations were already computerized in all centers interviewed. The greatest savings in time expected from further computerization were from adjusting diets to meet a specific prescription, factoring diets to meet varying caloric needs of individual subjects and in generating specific instructions for kitchen personnel.
Certifying the reliability of software

A description is given of a procedure for certifying the reliability of software before its release to users. The ingredients of this procedure are a life cycle of executable product increments, representative statistical testing, and a standard estimate of the MTTF (mean time to failure) of the product at the time of its release. The authors also discuss the development of certified software products and the derivation of a statistical model used for reliability projection. Available software test data are used to demonstrate the application of the model in certification process.
Potentiation of reward by hunger is opioid mediated

In tests of frequency threshold for brain stimulation-induced feeding, naloxone (s.c.) did not affect the first in a brief series of threshold estimates but elevated subsequent estimates progressively. It was demonstrated that neither the time-course of drug action nor any cumulative disruptive effect of brain stimulation itself, accounts for the progressive elevation of threshold. Self-stimulation in 'feeding' electrodes was therefore studied, in combination with hunger manipulations, to inferentially evaluate naloxone's effect on feeding mechanisms. Results suggest naloxone's anoretic effect does not reflect heightened responsiveness of a satiety mechanism. Reversal by naloxone of the potentiating effect of hunger on self-stimulation, however, suggests the anoretic effect is due to blockade of an opioid process associated with hunger that otherwise enhances the reward value of food.
Two endogenous neuropeptides (SCPA and SCPB) produce a cAMP-mediated stimulation of cardiac activity inAplysia

1. Two endogenous neuropeptides (SCPA and SCPB) have recently been isolated fromAplysia tissue and sequenced (Fig. 1). 2. In the present study, we show that the SCPs excite isolatedAplysia hearts with a threshold below 10−11 M (Figs. 2, 4). The SCPs increase both the beat amplitude and heart rate in a manner similar to serotonin (Fig. 3), although the peptides are at least 10-fold more potent. The actions of the SCPs appear to be quite specific as several peptides with sequences moderately similar to the SCPs were completely inactive on the isolatedAplysia heart (Fig. 1). 3. The effects of serotonin on the heart appear to be mediated by an increase in cAMP levels primarily in the AV-valves (Mandelbaum et al. 1979). Long term incubation (5 min) with SCPB produces moderate increases in cAMP levels in the auricle and ventricle but not in the AV-valve (Table 1). We therefore determined if the contractile activity of the AV-valve was enhanced by SCPB. 4. SCPB increased the rate and amplitude of the contractions of an isolated spontaneously beating AV-valve in a manner similar to serotonin except that the responses to SCPB desensitized rapidly (within 2 min; Fig. 5). 5. cAMP determinations from AV-valves with shorter exposures to SCPB revealed very large increases (∼ 100-fold) with short exposures (15 s) that rapidly decreased to near control levels with longer exposures (within 2 min; Fig. 6). Thus, the effects of SCPB on cAMP levels and on the rate and amplitude of the AV-valve contractions showed similar kinetics. The effects of SCPB on cAMP levels in the ventricle were also time-dependent but much less so than for the valve (Fig. 6). 6. These data support the proposal that excitation of theAplysia heart is mediated by increased cAMP levels. To further test this proposal, we exposed the isolated AV-valve to the adenylate cyclase activator, forskolin. 10−5 M forskolin produced an increase in the rate and amplitude of valve contractions similar to that produced by serotonin or SCPB (Fig. 7). The response to forskolin did not desensitize. 7. Using a sensitive HPLC-bioassay procedure, neither SCPA nor SCPB were detected in the auricle, AV-valve, or ventricle. Furthermore, neither peptide could be detected in the blood using a procedure with a maximum sensitivity of 10−11 M. These findings suggest either that the SCPs regulate the heart at blood concentrations below 10−11 M, or that the heart is regulated by some other substance that is similar to the SCPs.
PHYSICAL GROWTH AND CURRENT HEALTH STATUS OF EXTREMELY LOW BIRTHWEIGHT INFANTS AND CONTROLS IN ADOLESCENCE. • 1655

PHYSICAL GROWTH AND CURRENT HEALTH STATUS OF EXTREMELY LOW BIRTHWEIGHT INFANTS AND CONTROLS IN ADOLESCENCE. • 1655
What have we learned from a 10-year experience with the lumina (Lupus in Minorities; Nature vs. nurture) cohort? Where are we heading?

Abstract Recently, there has been an awareness of the variable phenotypic expression of numerous disorders between individuals from different ethnicities, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) one of them. These disparities probably arise from the interaction between genetic and non-genetic (environmental, socioeconomic–demographic, cultural and behavioral) factors. To delineate the influence of these factors on SLE outcome, we established a multiethnic (Hispanic, African American and Caucasian) United States (US) early cohort (
Professional Competence Evaluation

Professionals are individuals who use technical or specialized knowledge and skill in service of the public welfare. The importance of evaluating the competence of professionals is transparent–to receive assurance that the services delivered by professional persons are effective and safe. Trustworthy evaluation of professional competence requires attention to the social conditions where such individuals work and to evaluation technology. This article addresses each of these issues and provides illustrations of professional competence evaluation from several fields.
Introducing high performance computing in digital library processing workflows

As larger collections need to be processed for digital library projects, libraries have to adopt technologies of scale. We present a case that involved creating image derivatives using High Performance Computing (HPC) resources. This experience opens up possibilities to conduct various processing tasks effectively and in reasonable time frames. Most importantly, it enables library IT staff access to cyberinfrastructure that can address the computing challenges of large-scale digital library projects.
Some reflections on the past and future of erosion

This review will focus on erosion by abrasive particles in the absence of corrosion. The importance of fluid flow conditions in the solution of practical erosion problems will be discussed and illustrated by an example. Our present understanding of the mechanisms of material removal in ductile and brittle solids will then be reviewed, and some areas which require additional insight will be identified. Finally, some thoughts on predicting the brittle-ductile transition in erosion will be presented.
On the free vibration of mono-coupled periodic distributed parameter systems

Abstract A new approach to the exact solution is given for the free vibration of a periodic structure comprised of a multiplicity of identical linear distributed parameter substructures, closely coupled through identical linear springs. The method used is an extension of a classical result for periodic discrete systems.
Constrained peptidomimetics: building bicyclic analogs of pyrazoline derivatives

Abstract A synthetic route has been developed for incorporating pyrazoline derivatives as proline surrogates in constrained X-Pro peptidomimetics. The route allows for the synthesis of dipeptide building blocks having either a six or seven-membered-ring annulated onto the pyrazoline moiety, as well as for the asymmetric synthesis of analogs having substituents on N-terminal side of the building block.
The role of surgery in the treatment of stage III non—small-cell lung cancer

Stage III, locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer represents an incredibly heterogeneous group of patients. The majority of patients are treated with curative intent, but optimal therapy is controversial and the role of surgery is not well defined. Consensus has shown that the majority of patients with IIIB disease are not amenable to resection. The exceptions are selected patients with tumor stage 4 (T4) by virtue of a satellite nodule or those with isolated invasion of the spine, superior sulcus, carina, or vena cava. Surgery is more widely used for stage IIIA disease. Patients with nodal stage 2 (N2) disease represent the largest population of patients in stage III. Increasing evidence supports the use of surgery as part of a multimodality approach for N2 disease. The impact of surgery is partially determined by the bulk of the mediastinal node involvement. Patients with micrometastatic disease and single-station nodal involvement have the greatest chance for cure, and surgery appears to play a significant role in their treatment. Patients with bulky multistation disease are frequently not amenable to complete resection and may be best approached with definitive chemotherapy and radiation. In addition, the ability to sterilize mediastinal lymph nodes with induction therapy correlates strongly with survival following resection, but the ideal induction regime that balances the safety and efficacy has yet to be determined.
Total Arch Replacement After a Failed Repair for Takayasu's Ascending Aortitis

The constellation of Takayasu's disease most commonly includes aortitis with resultant coarctations and aneurysm formation. Surgical repair of these lesions can be compromised by the chronic inflammation of Takayasu's arteritis. We present a case of a 22-year-old female with Takayasu's disease who had undergone an ascending and aortic hemiarch replacement then subsequently developed anastomotic dehiscence and re-expansion of the previous aneurysmal sac. Complete aneurysm resection and replacement of the ascending aorta and aortic arch was performed on repeated surgery.
Pediatric status epilepticus: how common is cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis in the absence of infection?

Abstract Purpose To determine the rate of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis among children presenting with status epilepticus (SE) without proven central nervous system infection. Method We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study of all patients aged one month to 21 years of age who were evaluated in a single pediatric emergency department (ED) for SE between 1995 and 2012. We limited our study to those children who had a CSF culture obtained and excluded those children with proven viral or bacterial infection. We defined SE in a patient who had a single seizure or a cluster of seizures without regaining consciousness which lasted 30min or longer. We defined CSF pleocytosis as a CSF white blood cells (WBC)>10cells/mm 3 and a peripheral leukocytosis as WBC≥15,000cells/mm 3 . We compared the rate of CSF pleocytosis between children with and without peripheral leukocytosis using the Fisher's exact test. Results We identified 289 ED visits for SE, of which 178 (62%) met study inclusion criteria. Seven children (4%, 95% confidence interval 1.7–8.2%) had CSF pleocytosis. More children with peripheral leukocytosis had CSF pleocytosis: (8.6% with peripheral leukocytosis vs. 0.9% without leukocytosis, p =0.01). Conclusion CSF pleocytosis is relatively uncommon among children with prolonged seizures, even in the presence of peripheral leukocytosis. Therefore, all children with CSF pleocytosis after status epilepticus need comprehensive evaluation for central nervous system infection.
A Wavelet-Based Fuzzy Data Fusion Scheme for Bearing Defect Severity Classification

This paper presents a fuzzy data fusion scheme for bearing defect severity classification. Instead of using time-domain features (e.g. peak value, root mean square, kurtosis) of the original signal as the inputs, wavelet transform was applied to the original signals as a data pre-processor. Defect-related features were filtered out from the corresponding wavelet coefficients. Next, fuzzifications on individual input features were performed to obtain individual decisions. Finally, data fusion was peformed to achieve an overall bearing defect severity classification. Three data fusion methods: voting, weighted decision, and fuzzy inference, were investigated. Experimental results have shown that the presented fuzzy data fusion scheme is more effective than traditional approaches using raw signals as the input features. In particular, the presented scheme has resolved conflicting decisions arising from single feature-based classification, thus improving the reliability of defect severity assessment.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
The capacity of benthos release panels to reduce the impacts of beam trawls on benthic communities

Abstract Ecosystem-based fishery management requires that both a fishery and the environment associated with that fishery should be sustainable. Beam trawling has widespread effects on the biomass, production and diversity of benthic communities and in some fisheries, the impact is deleterious. Beam trawls impact benthic communities because the ground gear crushes and dislodges animals on the seabed, and because animals are caught in the trawl and subsequently die. Based on a study of the relative performance of seven designs of benthic release panels in commercial beam trawl fisheries, we demonstrate that panel designs consisting of 150 mm × 5 mm o double polyethylene square mesh or 150 mm × 6 mm o single polyethylene square mesh, respectively, reduced invertebrate bycatches by 75 and 80%, and that >90% of the animals released survived. We conclude that the use of benthic release panels may reduce the overall environmental impact (expressed as invertebrate mortality) of beam trawl fisheries by 5–10% without affecting their profitability. Other techniques to reduce the environmental impact of beam trawling are also discussed.
Effects of initial alpha wave abundance and operant training procedures on occipital alpha and beta wave activity

Operant methods were used to increase differentially the abundance of occipital EEG waves in the alpha (8-12 Hz) and beta (above 13 Hz) frequency bands of naive undergraduate Ss in the presence of a discriminative stimulus. Ss were grouped by the amount of alpha wave activity in their pretraining EEG. Operant training with continuous reinforcement produced reliable and orderly changes in EEG spectra as a function of reinforcement contingency. Baseline alpha abundance predicted only the mean level of alpha output over trials, not the efficiency of training. Matched yoked controls showed no difference in EEG spectra between the two reinforcement conditions.
Model-based policy gradient reinforcement learning

Policy gradient methods based on REINFORCE are model-free in the sense that they estimate the gradient using only online experiences executing the current stochastic policy. This is extremely wasteful of training data as well as being computationally inefficient. This paper presents a new model-based policy gradient algorithm that uses training experiences much more efficiently. Our approach constructs a series of incomplete models of the MDP, and then applies these models to compute the policy gradient in closed form. The paper describes an algorithm that alternates between pruning (to remove irrelevant parts of the incomplete MDP model), exploration (to gather training data in the relevant parts of the state space), and gradient ascent search. We show experimental results on several benchmark problems including resource-constrained scheduling. The overall feasibility of this approach depends on whether a sufficiently informative partial model can fit into available memory.
Quality Improvement in Family Practice: A Recipe for Change

A new recipe is presented, splitting quality improvement into 4 levels. The Q1 level corresponds to the everyday processes that guide our daily work flow. Q2 corresponds to commonly thought of outcome measures such as HEDIS criteria. Q3 relates to the executive functions that permit seasoned clinicians to draw generalizations about care for individual patients by synthesizing large amounts of data from both psychosocial as well as classical history/physical sources. Finally Q4 reflects more population-based quality improvement activities. Examples are given for each. Each of these levels requires a different approach for improvement activities. Each must be seen in the context of an expanded "quality compass" and in the paradigm of the PLAN-DO-CHECK-ACT cycle of quality improvement. Finally, a practical application of how this could be instituted at a Family Practice residency is given.
Measuring Component-Based Systems Using a Systematic Approach and Environment

SOA applications are developed to implement serviceoriented workflows with service specifications. Most SOA applications are made of service-oriented components, which are built using standard specifications and interaction protocols. How to validate system performance and measure the non-function requirements and behaviors in a componentbased SOA application becomes a challenge for engineer. This paper focuses on the measurement of the component-based SOA systems in terms of service-oriented process speed, system reliability, throughput, and availability. The paper proposes a systematic solution to support the system level measurement for component-based SOA software, which extends our previous component level performance measurement. The paper presents a systematic solution using an event-based functional transition model as a performance evaluation model, and its evaluation metrics, such as system processing time, throughput, availability and reliability. It reports the basic functions and design of this solution, also presents a case study and application results. KEYWORDS: Component-based software engineering, SOA system engineering, performance evaluation, system measurement, and evaluation metrics.
Improving Middle School Student Engagement through Career-Relevant Instruction in the Core Curriculum.

ABSTRACT The authors assessed the effect of career-relevant instruction on school valuing and engagement of middle school students in a southern U.S. school district. Previous research and theory indicate students learn best when new knowledge is provided within the context of information students consider to be of value. The data come from a school-based randomized trial of the CareerStart intervention that was introduced in 7 of 14 middle schools, and include the initial 3 years of data for 3,493 students. The authors examined the effect of the CareerStart intervention and student-reported career-relevant instruction on psychosocial measures of school engagement and school valuing. After controlling for previous school engagement, demographic, socioeconomic, and academic factors, the analysis confirms that students in the treatment schools reported significantly higher levels of school valuing than students in the control schools, and students reporting greater career-relevant instruction indicated sign...
Reflection at a Sharply-Bounded Ionosphere

A quantitative description of the waves transmitted into and reflected from a sharply-bounded, anisotropic ionosphere with losses is given. Given curves show the effects of the earth's field and losses for a particular model of the nighttime E layer at vlf.
A complete normalized analysis of the current-fed series resonant DC/DC converter

A current-fed series resonant DC/DC converter is analyzed using a normalized third-order model. This model overcomes limitations of reduced second-order descriptions which do not include the effects of the output filter in the response of the circuit. The normalization procedure used simplifies the description of the converter as a function of basic parameters of the circuit, such as the switching-to-resonant frequency ratio and the normalized load parameter Q. A symbolic solution for the equations describing the converter is obtained and used to derive both large and small-signal sampled-data models. Sensitivities of the sampled state variables with respect to relative variations in the input current, switching-to-resonant frequency ratio, and Q are also obtained. >
Correlates of prescription drug market involvement among young adults.

Background While a significant minority of prescription drug misusers report purchasing prescription drugs, little is known about prescription drug selling. We build upon past research on illicit drug markets, which increasingly recognizes networks and nightlife as influential, by examining prescription drug market involvement.
Breast cancer risks in relatives of male breast cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have provided conflicting results concerning the familial effect of male breast cancer on breast cancer risks in female relatives. PURPOSE: We studied breast cancer risks in first-degree relatives of male patients and compared them with relatives of female patients. METHODS: Our study included 88 consecutively ascertained male patients and 320 of their first-degree relatives as well as 186 consecutively ascertained female patients and 633 of their first-degree relatives. Observed numbers of breast cancers in relatives were compared with the expected number derived from the Connecticut Tumor Registry. Multiple logistic regression analysis was also performed. RESULTS: Relatives of male patients exhibited a significant twofold increased risk when compared with expected rates and no difference in risk when compared with that of relatives of female patients. Prostate cancer in the family of a male patient resulted in a significant fourfold increased breast cancer risk compared with a risk of 1.4 in families with no history of prostate cancer. A family history of lung cancer, colon cancer, or melanoma had no effect on increasing risks of breast cancer. CONCLUSION: The familial effect of male breast cancer is the same as that of female breast cancer. IMPLICATIONS: Any estimates of breast cancer risk provided to individuals should also consider the occurrence of prostate cancer in the family, since prostate cancer appears capable of at least doubling the underlying twofold risk.
Intercluster Innovation Differentials: The Role of Research Universities

We explore the role of research universities in explaining intercluster innovation differentials. Drawing on the knowledge production function, our baseline hypothesis is that cluster innovative performance is determined by the cluster's endowment with financial, intellectual, and human capital. Leveraging fine-grained, longitudinal panel data tracking the population of medical device clusters in the USA over a 12-year time period (1990-2001), we demonstrate strong support for the notion of spatial heterogeneity in cluster innovative performance. In particular, research universities, which play a critical role by serving as a source of knowledge spillovers and producing graduates who disseminate tacit knowledge within a cluster, are a critical ingredient for innovative performance in a regional technology cluster.
Turbocharging DBMS buffer pool using SSDs

Flash solid-state drives (SSDs) are changing the I/O landscape, which has largely been dominated by traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) for the last 50 years. In this paper we propose and systematically explore designs for using an SSD to improve the performance of a DBMS buffer manager. We propose three alternatives that differ mainly in the way that they deal with the dirty pages evicted from the buffer pool. We implemented these alternatives, as well another recently proposed algorithm for this task (TAC), in SQL Server, and ran experiments using a variety of benchmarks (TPC-C, E and H) at multiple scale factors. Our empirical evaluation shows significant performance improvements of our methods over the default HDD configuration (up to 9.4X), and up to a 6.8X speedup over TAC.
InSAR constraints on the source parameters of the 2001 Bhuj earthquake

[1] We present InSAR results of the coseismic displacement field for the January 2001 Bhuj earthquake. Using InSAR data along multiple tracks, we determine the optimal source parameters of the earthquake. The deformation pattern is first modeled assuming uniform slip on an elastic dislocation. A grid search is used to constrain the source location and finiteness assuming a strike, rake, and dip consistent with seismic studies. An inversion for the distributed slip places oblique reverse slip at depth with strike-slip motion resolved at shallower depths. The estimated size of the event is Mw 7.6. Results also suggest that the postseismic response is minimal.