cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
When does invasive species removal lead to ecological recovery? Implications for management success

The primary goal of invasive species management is to eliminate or reduce populations of invasive species. Although management efforts are often motivated by broader goals such as to reduce the negative impacts of invasive species on ecosystems and society, there has been little assessment of the consistency between population-based (e.g., removing invaders) and broader goals (e.g., recovery of ecological systems) for invasive species management. To address this, we conducted a comprehensive review of studies (N = 151) that removed invasive species and assessed ecological recovery over time. We found positive or mixed outcomes in most cases, but 31% of the time ecological recovery did not occur or there were negative ecological outcomes, such as increases in non-target invasive species. Ecological recovery was more likely in areas with relatively little anthropogenic disturbance and few other invaders, and for the recovery of animal populations and communities compared to plant communities and ecosystem processes. Elements of management protocols, such as whether invaders were eradicated (completely removed) versus aggressively suppressed (≥90% removed), did not affect the likelihood of ecological recovery. Our findings highlight the importance of considering broader goals and unintended outcomes when designing and implementing invasive species management programs.
A routing and placement scheme for network function virtualization

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) are two paradigms that have attracted much attention in the networking field. The first permits the implementation of Network Functions (NFs) on commodity servers located in datacenters. The second facilitates the management and routing of network flows by controllers. While recent work has mostly explored the use of NFV and SDN with the goal of minimizing the resources to satisfy a set of requested NFs, the application of these two paradigms has not been studied in scenarios where resources are limited. Those scenarios are typical when parts of the network or datacenters fail. Hence, this paper presents an optimization scheme based on integer linear programming (ILP) for the joint routing and placement of virtual NFs problem. Given a set of requests, each consisting of NFs and end points of the traffic flow, the objective of the scheme is the maximization of the number of NFs satisfied. At the same, the scheme minimizes both the routing and infrastructure costs to satisfy the requests. While numerical results demonstrate that the proposed ILP can be used in small/medium-sized networks, the paper also presents a low-complexity greedy heuristic approach for large networks.
The Technique of Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy from the Perspective of a New User

Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is a valuable new technique for obtaining in vivo, real-time histology. As with any new endoscopic technique, training and practice are required for mastery. The specifics of the confocal endomicroscope are described in ▸ Chap. 4 (⊡ Fig. 4.1).
Letter by Houston et al regarding article, "Localized Optogenetic Targeting of Rotors in Atrial Cardiomyocyte Monolayers"

We read with great interest the article by Feola et al1 on investigating the mechanisms of rotor-guided ablation through optogenetic stimulation in monolayers of neonatal rat atrial cardiomyocytes. The authors optically map single stable rotors which could be reliably initiated in their homogeneous monolayers and report on the success rate of different light ablation approaches to terminate the rotors by localized conduction block. We previously studied similar rotor activity using high spatiotemporal resolution optical mapping in monolayers …
Osmosis and Regulation of Cell Volume

Publisher Summary This chapter aims to provide the basis for understanding regulation of cell volume through the exchange of water and solutes across the plasma membrane. The chapter explains water movement across model membranes in detail. Osmosis refers to the movement of fluid across a membrane in response to differing concentrations of solutes on the two sides of the membrane. The ultimate cause of osmosis is the reduction of the chemical potential of water in a solution. The chapter discusses three examples of isosmotic regulation of cell volume that illustrate some of the principles. Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium is discussed in more depth. The primary mechanism of regulatory volume decrease (RVD) in a number of cell types is activation of conductive pathways, is discussed in detail. The chapter discusses anisosmotic media, membrane potential, cytoskeleton, calcium, phosphorylation, mass action model, and macromolecular crowding under signaling pathways underlying RVD and regulatory volume increase (RVI). Although principles of the pump-leak or double-Donnan model are correct and still relevant to the regulation of cell volume, it has become apparent that neither the leak nor the pump is constant. Not only is the control of these fluxes more complex than originally envisioned, but a myriad of other transport processes also contribute to cell volume regulation. The regulation of cell volume under anisosmotic conditions is also discussed in the chapter. From the perspective of regulation of ion transport, much remains to be understood about how cells sense swelling and shrinking and how a cell decides on its optimal volume. There are unanswered questions concerning the regulation of volume regulatory ion transporters by cellular messengers, metabolic demands, and pathological states.
A37 Session 11: Cardiovascular Disease Intervention

Cardiac cryoablation continues to remain a powerful tool in the management of cardiac arrhythmias. Historically, cryoablation was reserved for arrhythmias that were high-risk for collateral damage with traditional radiofrequency (RF) ablation. However, the recent availability of the cryoballoon has permitted cryoablation technology to be applied to a larger population of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. As a result, cryoablation now accounts for greater than the historical 10–15% of all ablations. This review summarizes the recent clinical outcomes of cryoablation in managing supraventricular cardiac arrhythmias. Cumulatively, cryoablation is estimated to offer a 95–97% cure rate and a 9–11% recurrence rate when used for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT). Success appears to be related to catheter tip size with larger tips offering greater success. Peyrol et al. demonstrated that a larger tip 8 mm catheter results in outcomes that rival the best results from traditional RF ablation with reported 99% acute success and 5% long-term recurrence rate over 18 months. Success rates of 95–100% have been reported for atrioventricular tachycardia (AVRT); however, there is a higher recurrence rate of 20–30%. Atienze et al. performed a meta-analysis of patients with septal accessory pathways revealing an 84% acute success rate with a 21% recurrence rate. These results are inferior to those seen with RF. However, there were no reported cases of permanent AV block with cryoablation versus a 2.8% risk with RF. Data remains limited on ablating atrial tachycardia (AT) with no recent reports in the past year. 96% acute success and 12% recurrence have been previously reported. Manusama et al. have significantly contributed to the literature regarding the efficacy of cryoablation in treating typical atrial flutter. They have demonstrated a significant reduction in procedure time and number of lesions when ablating the cavotricuspid isthmus for typical atrial flutter with 10 mm and 15 mm cryoablation catheters. Overall success was reported 89% with minimal recurrence of Amazingly, there continues to be no reported cases of complete heart block requiring permanent pacemaker implantation with cryoablation when treating peri-AV nodal arrhythmias. Cryoablaton continues to gain traction as an alternative energy source for cardiac arrhythmia ablation. The advent of new catheters and mechanisms of cooling will continue to broaden the application of cardiac cryoablation as outcomes match or even excel those seen with RF.
Introduction to the Concept of Biobehavioral Dispositions

The biobehavioral dispositions generally equal or exceed in complexity the more complex of the basic functions considered in Unit 1. Thus, although the behavior function hierarchy is extended in the direction of “higher“ mental activity, there is no implication of sharp discontinuity between these first two areas (or, for that matter, between any areas in the total schema). The constitutional core of general intelligence could certainly have been included in this part, and the points made here about biobehavioral dispositions should certainly be understood to apply to that function. The decision to discuss intelligence in Unit I was based largely on its traditional association with the clinical definition of organic brain syndrome. Like intelligence, most of the functions to be considered next include central, integrative, as well as sensory and motor aspects and therefore fall to some degree under the laws of mass action and equipotentiality. These are not sharply localized in a particular brain area or system.
Parenting quality at two developmental periods in early childhood and their association with child development

Abstract Parenting quality—a child’s milieu of warmth, responsiveness, and stimulation—promotes a young child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. An unanswered question, however, is about the relative contributions of parenting quality in infancy and in early childhood to disparities in child cognitive and socioemotional development by age five, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Understanding these relationships could inform better targeting of parenting programs in LMICs to yield greater effect size and consistency in improvements in early childhood development. This longitudinal study examines parenting quality and early childhood development among 603 children from poor, rural communities in Mexico who were assessed during infancy (4–18 months) and prekindergarten (3–5 years). Parenting quality (low, moderate, or high) was measured using the HOME Inventory in infancy and the Family Care Indicators (FCI) during prekindergarten. Child development was assessed in infancy using the Extended Ages and Stages Questionnaire (EASQ) and the ASQ Socioemotional scale, and during prekindergarten with the McCarthy Scales of Children’s Abilities. We found that parenting quality measures above the 25th percentile during infancy and prekindergarten were independently and significantly associated with a 0.26–0.30 SD increase in McCarthy scores at ages 3–5 years in adjusted analyses. Parental warmth and responsiveness in infancy were significant predictors of child development at ages 3–5 years, but parental stimulating practices and availability of learning materials in the home were not. Conversely, during the prekindergarten period, parental stimulating practices were significant predictors of concurrent child development. Our findings support the importance parenting quality throughout early childhood, and that the effect of aspects of parenting may vary from infancy to prekindergarten. Programs targeting parents of young children should tailor their curriculum to the specific ages of the targeted children.
Modeling of Acute Rectal Toxicity to Compare Two Patient Positioning Methods for Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy: Can Toxicity Modeling be Used for Quality Assurance?

Purpose Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) allows for significant dose reductions to organs at risk in prostate cancer patients. However, the accurate delivery of IMRT plans can be compromised by patient positioning errors. The purpose of this study was to determine if the modeling of grade ≥ 2 acute rectal toxicity could be used to monitor the quality of IMRT protocols. Materials and methods 79 patients treated with Image and Fiducial Markers Guided IMRT (FMIGRT) and 302 patients treated with trans-abdominal ultrasound guided IMRT (USGRT) was selected for this study. Treatment plans were available for the FMIGRT group, and hand recorded dosimetric indices were available for both groups. We modeled toxicity in the FMIGRT group using the Lyman Kutcher Burman (LKB) and Univariate Logistic Regression (ULR) models, and we modeled toxicity in USGRT group using the ULR model. We performed Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis on all of the models and compared the Area under the ROC curve (AUC) for the FMIGRT and the USGRT groups. Results The observed Incidence of grade ≥ 2 rectal toxicity was 20% in FMIGRT patients and 54% in USGRT patients. LKB model parameters in the FMIGRT group were TD50=56.8 Gy, slope m=0.093, and exponent n=0.131. The most predictive indices in the ULR model for the FMIGRT group were D25% and V50 Gy. AUC for both models in the FMIGRT group was similar (AUC=0.67). The FMIGRT URL model predicted less than a 37% incidence of grade ≥ 2 acute rectal toxicity in the USGRT group. A fit of the ULR model to USGRT data did not yield a predictive model (AUC=0.5). Conclusion Modeling of acute rectal toxicity provided a quantitative measure of the correlation between planning dosimetry and this clinical endpoint. Our study suggests that an unusually weak correlation may indicate a persistent patient positioning error.
Accounts of Family Conflict in Home Hospice Care: The Central Role of Autonomy for Informal Caregiver Resilience:

End-of-life caregiving is a highly stressful experience often fraught with conflict and tension. However, little is known about the ways family conflict manifests for informal caregivers of home ho...
Assessment of pre-operative psychosocial function among people receiving left ventricular assist devices: A national survey of US LVAD programs.

Abstract Background The International Society for Heart & Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) guidelines for Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) includes assessment of four elements of psychosocial functioning prior to Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantation. Information about the practices and impact of assessments of psychosocial functioning are limited. Objective To describe the psychosocial function assessment practices used within US LVAD programs and the influence of psychosocial assessment results on clinical decisions for LVAD patient selection. Methods In 2017, a cross-sectional survey of LVAD programs listed in the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) (N = 164) was conducted to understand practices used for and the influence of psychosocial assessments for post-operative care planning decisions. Results Respondents included representatives of 69 LVAD programs from throughout the U.S. that implanted 64.8% of all U.S LVADs in 2016. More than 39 psychosocial screening instruments were used. Assessment of family, social and emotional support occurred most frequently (84.1% (n = 58) of programs assessed 100% of patients), but assessment was least likely to be conducted with standardized instruments (36.2%). Cognitive dysfunction was the least likely characteristic to be assessed (26.1% (n = 18) of programs assessed 100% of patients), but was most often conducted with standardized instruments (53.8% of programs). Twenty seven percent of programs used non-standardized instruments or patient observation. The influence of assessments on clinical decisions to implant an LVAD was most influential in the bridge to transplant pathway with 60% (n = 39) of respondents rating it very influential and least influential for patients in the destination therapy pathway with 39.4% (n = 26) of respondents. Conclusions Current psychosocial assessment practices in LVAD programs vary widely and often yield non-standardized, non-comparable data that may lead to variations in care and limit generation of an evidence base for decision making regarding psychosocial eligibility for LVAD implantation.
Future of platelet formulations with improved clotting profile: a short review on human safety and efficacy data

Background Platelet (PLT) transfusion is a widely used therapy in treating or preventing bleeding and hemorrhage in patients with thrombocytopenia or trauma. Compared to the relative ease of PLT transfusion, current practice for PLT storage at room temperature (RT) for up to 5 to 7 days is inefficient, costly, wasteful, and relatively unsafe. Study design and methods This study was a review of major advances in PLT derivative products with improved hemostatic potential and safety feature. Results Recent progress in understanding the PLT activation and host clearance mechanisms has led to reassessments of current and new storage conditions that employ refrigeration and/or cryopreservation to overcome storage lesions and significantly extend shelf life of PLTs with reduced risk of pathogen contamination. Discussion It is anticipated that future PLT preservation involving cold, frozen, and/or pathogen reduction strategies in proper PLT additive solutions will enable longer term and safer PLT storage.
On two-generator subgroups in SL2(Z), SL2(Q), and SL2(R)

Abstract We consider what some authors call “parabolic Mobius subgroups” of matrices over Z , Q , and R and focus on the membership problem in these subgroups and complexity of relevant algorithms.
Iodoacetate and 3-bromopyruvate modulate cell signaling to decrease the pancreatic cancer cell survival

4336 Cancer cells’ dependence on glycolysis for their energy requirements was suggested by Warburg in the1920’s (the Warburg hypothesis). There has been renewed interest to derived novel experimental paradigms using this hypothesis. In this study, we investigated the functional relation between the glycolytic pathway and tumor cell survival and proliferation by determining the effects on pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1) of two glycolytic enzyme inhibitors, iodoacetate (IAA), an inhibitor of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and 3-bromopyruvate (3BP), an inhibitor of hexokinase II (HKII). We hypothesized that IAA and 3BP inhibit the functional roles of GAPDH and HKII leading to decreased survival of pancreatic cancer cells. To test our hypothesis, we performed cell survival (MTT) assay on IAA- or 3BP-treated PANC-1cells and found that both inhibitors induced decreases in survival of PANC-1cells in a dose-related manner. However, IAA was approximately six times more potent than 3BP, the IC50 for IAA and 3BP being 3 and 17µM, respectively. To elucidate the putative mechanism of cell death induced by IAA and 3BP, we determined lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release from treated cells into the medium which correlates with the extent of necrotic cell damage/death. Our results revealed treatment with both inhibitors induced increases in cellular necrosis. However, although IAA is more potent than 3BP in lowering survival of PANC-1 cells, when the cells were treated at their respective IC50 concentrations, IAA produced no increase in the LDH release while 3BP induced 35% increase in the LDH release as compared to that in untreated cells. To assess the putative signaling mechanism(s) mediating the effects of IAA and 3BP on PANC-1 cells, western blot analysis was performed. We found that 3BP treatment of the cells reduced the expression of K-ras and phosphorylation of AKT but not that of ERK-1, whereas IAA treatment neither affected the expression of K-ras nor the phosphorylation of ERK-1 and AKT. We conclude that there may be a cross-talk between signaling pathways and glycolysis in regulating pancreatic cancer cell survival and death. Thus, a combination of agents that inhibit both glycolytic and signaling mechanisms may provide a novel approach to target pancreatic cancer effectively.
Shaking Things Up: The Influence of Women on the American Cocktail

At the beginning of the 20th century, much was changing for American women. Working toward the right to vote and the passage of Prohibition gave women a route into the public sphere and allowed them to contribute to political and social discourse. One such way women did this was by beginning to drink alcohol publicly. While drinking had always been seen as a male only activity, many women began drinking publicly during prohibition. This essay explores the way that a culture of commercialization and political and social liberation for women allows them to enter barrooms and fundamentally change drinking culture. This, in turn, affects the type of alcohol being served in bars of the time and The essay aims to explore how women’s response to prohibition shaped American drinking practice by examining three questions. First, how and why did where women were drinking change? Second, how and why did what women were drinking change? Third, what impact did the “where” and “what” of women’s drinking habits have on the evolution of the cocktail and American drinking culture overall? These questions are analyzed through newspaper articles and cocktail recipes from cocktails created and popularized in the period from 1920-1933 as well as by research on women’s history during the period.
Pediatric Ice Pop Administration to Improve Patient Experience Scores.

Abstract Objective To assess the impact on patient experience scores of giving an ice pop (Popsicle, Good Humor-Breyers, Oakland, CA) to patients in a pediatric emergency department (ED). Patients and Methods A prospective two-center trial was conducted at a tertiary academic pediatric ED and a community ED from January 1, 2018, through March 31, 2018. The intervention arm gave an ice pop to all eligible patients 0 to 14 years of age on even-numbered days versus conventional practice on odd-numbered days. Press Ganey top box scores were then compared. Results Of 4574 pediatric (0 to 14 years of age) patient visits, patient experience surveys were delivered to 1346 families (29.4%) and 152 were returned (11.3%). Eighty-four surveys were returned for even-numbered day visits and 68 for odd-numbered day visits. There was a significant increase in patient experience scores associated with ice pop administration days for questions that asked about doctor’s concern for comfort 70.2% versus 57.4% (P=.05), doctor’s courtesy 76.2% versus 61.8% (P=.04), and doctor taking time to listen 72.6% versus 57.4% (P=.03). Conclusion A low-cost intervention resulted in significantly increased patient experience scores in select domains. Popsicle administration was a simple intervention which was easily instituted in both academic and community ED settings. Further study should explore the durability of the effect.
How Do Decision Frames Influence the Stock Investment Choices of Individual Investors

This study examines whether the framing mode (narrow versus broad) influences the stock investment decisions of individual investors. Motivated by the experimental evidence, which suggests that separate decisions are more likely to be narrowly framed than simultaneous decisions, we propose trade clustering as a proxy for narrow framing. Using this framing proxy, we show that investors who execute more clustered trades exhibit weaker disposition effects and hold better-diversified portfolios. We also find that the degree of trade clustering is related to investors' stock preferences and portfolio returns. Collectively, the evidence indicates that the choice of decision frames is likely to be an important determinant of investment decisions.
Literalism in Statutory Interpretation: What Is It and What Is Wrong with It?

In two recent decisions — Bostock v. Clayton County and Niz-Chavez v. Garland — a majority of the Supreme Court claimed to apply a textualist approach to statutory interpretation, and a dissent charged the majority with applying “literalism” instead. But what is literalism and what, if anything, is wrong with it? This Essay borrows a few ideas from the philosophy of language to try to pin down a more precise sense in which the majority opinions in Bostock and Niz-Chavez were arguably literalistic. The opinions may have been literalistic in the sense that they failed to consider how context pragmatically enriched what the relevant statutes asserted by fixing the operative sense of a polysemous word. If that is right, then one problem with such a literalist approach is that it pushes controversial interpretive choices underground rather than giving a linguistic (or any other sort of) argument for those choices.
Quantized Landau level spectrum and its density dependence in graphene

Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy in a magnetic field was used to study Landau quantization in graphene and its dependence on charge carrier density. Measurements were carried out on exfoliated graphene samples deposited on a chlorinated SiO${}_{2}$ thermal oxide, which allowed for the observation of the Landau level sequences characteristic of single-layer graphene while tuning the density through the Si backgate. Upon changing the carrier density, we find abrupt jumps in the Fermi level after each Landau level is filled. Moreover, at low doping levels, a marked increase in the Fermi velocity is observed, which is consistent with the logarithmic divergence expected due to the onset of many-body effects close to the Dirac point.
Model matching using reduced-order dynamic compensator

A control design method is presented for model matching and stability robustness of a linear discrete-time system. The design algorithm uses a stability robustness component in addition to the matching error. The controller structure is initially specified as a reduced-order dynamic compensator. From the example, it is clear that the proposed robust state feedback design gives a large bound and larger matching error than the linear-quadratic regulator design. >
Structural basis for the signal transduction of erythropoietin

The structures of recombinant erythropoietin (r-HuEPO), the extracellular ligand-binding portion of erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and several novel peptides have been extensively studied using a variety of methods including X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) [1, 2] The receptor for EPO has been classified as a member of the class 1 cytokine receptor super family [3, 4]. EPOR is a transmembrane receptor that is activated when EPO binds to the extracellular portion of the receptor causing dimerization [5]. The dimerization of the extracellular portion of the receptor induces tyrosine kinase proteins associated with the cytoplasmic side of the receptor to initiate the signal transduction events that eventually cause the committed erythroid-colony-forming units (CFU-E) progenitor cells to eventually mature into red blood cells [6] (Fig. 1).
A formalism for conformance analysis and its applications

Software development is a dynamic process where engineers constantly refine their systems. As a consequence, all software artifacts and their logical relationships evolve. At times, the evolutionary changes may reduce the consistency of the software project and break semantic connections among documents. We use the term conformance to denote the state where the network formed by software documents and their relationships is in semantic harmony. Conformance analysis is the process of determining whether software documents and their logical relationships are in agreement. In our previous research, we have developed a formalism that can be used to verify strategies to conformance analysis. In this paper we describe modifications to that formalism, and its applications to build conformance analysis tools in an integrated development environment that is extensible to incorporate new conformance analysis strategies and to combine multiple strategies together.
One HAT size fits all

The structure of yeast Esa1 suggests that different families of histone acetyltransferases employ similar mechanisms of substrate binding and catalysis. Deletion studies used to optimize the protein for crystallization also emphasize the importance of Esa1 function within a larger, multiprotein HAT complex.
Invariants of Finite Reflection Groups

Let K be a field of characteristic zero. Let V be an n -dimensional vector space over K and let S be the graded ring of polynomial functions on V . If G is a group of linear transformations of V , then G acts naturally as a group of automorphisms of S if we define The elements of S invariant under all γ ∈ G constitute a homogeneous subring I(S) of S called the ring of polynomial invariants of G .
Morava K-theories of classifying spaces and generalized characters for finite groups

This paper is intended to be an informal introduction to [HKR], where we study the Morava K–theories (which will be partially defined below) of the classifying space of a finite group G and related matters. It will be long on exposition and short on proofs, in the spirit of the third author’s lecture at the conference. In Section 1 we will recall Atiyah’s theorem relating the complex K–theory of BG to the complex representation ring R(G). We will also define classical characters on G. In Section 2 we will introduce the Morava K–theories K(n)∗ and the related theories E(n)∗. In Section 3 we will state our main results and conjectures. Most of the former are generalizations of the classical results stated in Section 1. In the remaining five sections we will outline the proofs of our results. Section 4 is purely group–theoretic, i.e., it makes no use of any topology. In it we will prove our formula for the number χn,p(G) of conjugacy classes of commuting n– tuples of elements of prime power order in a finite group G. We have discussed this material with several prominent group theorists, but we have yet to find one who admits to ever having considered this question. In Section 5 we equate this number with the Euler characteristic of K(n)∗(BG). Our generalized characters are functions on the set of such conjugacy classes with values in certain p–adic fields. In Section 6 we recall the Lubin–Tate construction from local algebraic number theory. It uses formal group laws to construct abelian extensions of finite extensions of the field of p–adic numbers. We need it in Section 7 where we describe the connection between E(n)∗(BG) and our generalized characters. In Section 8, we prove a theorem about wreath products. A corollary of this is that our main conjecture (3.5) about K(n)∗(BG) holds for all the symmetric ∗Partially supported by the National Science Foundation †Partially supported by the NSF, the Sloan Foundation and the SERC ‡Partially supported by the NSF
Does Small High School Reform Lift Urban Districts? Evidence from NYC

We evaluate the effectiveness of small school reform as systemic reform in the nation’s largest school district, New York City. Using rich administrative data for four cohorts of students, we examine the extent to which graduation and testing outcomes improved for all students, not only those in small schools. Our findings show that high school outcomes improved overall, that these improvements were not driven solely by the positive effects observed in small schools, and that the results are robust to student characteristics and selection. Importantly, this paper provides insight into how the introduction of new small schools improves outcomes district-wide.
Educating Future Clinical Research Investigators: An 8-Week Clinical Research Education Course for Neurology Residents (P1.308)

Objective: The purpose of this research was to develop, implement, and evaluate an 8-week clinical research curriculum for neurology residents designed to increase both knowledge and self-perceived competency in research methodology, study design, and statistical analysis. Background: Lack of research education during residency can result in difficulty meeting accreditation requirements and contributes to the continued decline of future research investigators. Minimal research has been published on clinical research education programs for neurology residents and its effects on knowledge and self-perceived competency. Design and Methods: The curriculum was implemented over 8 weeks and was a pre-experimental one-group-pretest-posttest design to compare baseline research knowledge levels with residents9 self-perceived competency in research prior to intervention, as well as changes in both knowledge and self-assessed competency from baseline to 8-week follow-up. Descriptive variables, including gender, age, PGY level, future career plans, and history of prior research education, were collected and assessed for any potential impact on either measure. Results: Ten neurology residents participated. Findings revealed a statistically significant increase in both level of knowledge and self-perceived competency from baseline to follow-up (t= -3.210; p=0.012 and t= -2.558; p=0.034). Knowledge domains showing statistically significant improvements included Research Question & Hypothesis (t= -3.210; p=0.012), Variables & Measurement (t= -3.688; p=0.006), and Regulatory Requirements (t= -2.530; p=0.035). An analysis of individual resident scores revealed increases in overall knowledge ranging from 12.5% to 94.4%. Conclusions: This research provides a model for research education consisting of protected research education time, while addressing residency accreditation requirements, and demonstrated the importance of a research curriculum during residency by providing evidence that neurology residents still consider research as a possible career option and that neurology residents are interested in learning research skills during their residency training. Disclosure: Dr. McGee has nothing to disclose.
Examining neurocognitive function in previously concussed interscholastic female soccer players

Awareness of sport-related concussions in soccer has gained recent attention in the medical community. Interestingly, purposeful heading—a unique yet strategic and inherent part of soccer—involves repeated subconcussive blows to the head. We divided 210 female interscholastic soccer players into control (CON [never concussed]) and experimental (EXP [previously concussed]) groups. We assessed neurocognitive performance using the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics computer program before and after the players' competitive season. Headers were recorded at all sanctioned matches. Data were analyzed using a series of one-way analyses of covariance and t tests. Both groups essentially played in the same number of games (EXP = 16.1 vs. CON = 16.1) and had an equal number of total headers (EXP = 24.9 vs. CON = 24.3). Additionally, headers per game were surprisingly low in both groups (1.4 in EXP vs. 1.3 in CON). Unexpectedly, there were no significant differences between the EXP and CON groups across...
Evaluation of distortion of residuals in trend surface analysis by clustered data

Distortion is induced in multiple linear regression by clusters of data. The magnitude of this distortion is a function of the magnitude of the mean of the clustered data. The location and estimated amount of maximum induced distortion can be obtained by evaluating the surface in question with and without clusters. The difference between these surfaces is the induced distortion. Clustering of data points is common in map data and especially in subsurface information. The Albion-Scipio Trend, an oil and gas field in Southern Michigan, has 82 percent of the available data in clusters. Evaluation of the distortion indicates that the analysis contains a measureable amount of distortion but its small magnitude does not alter the structural interpretation of the area.
Purification and characterization of a novel subtype a3 botulinum neurotoxin.

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) produced by Clostridium botulinum are of considerable importance due to their being the cause of human and animal botulism, their potential as bioterrorism agents, and their utility as important pharmaceuticals. Type A is prominent due to its high toxicity and long duration of action. Five subtypes of type A BoNT are currently recognized; BoNT/A1, -/A2, and -/A5 have been purified, and their properties have been studied. BoNT/A3 is intriguing because it is not effectively neutralized by polyclonal anti-BoNT/A1 antibodies, and thus, it may potentially replace BoNT/A1 for patients who have become refractive to treatment with BoNT/A1 due to antibody formation or other modes of resistance. Purification of BoNT/A3 has been challenging because of its low levels of production in culture and the need for innovative purification procedures. In this study, modified Mueller-Miller medium was used in place of traditional toxin production medium (TPM) to culture C. botulinum A3 (CDC strain) and boost toxin production. BoNT/A3 titers were at least 10-fold higher than those produced in TPM. A purification method was developed to obtain greater than 95% pure BoNT/A3. The specific toxicity of BoNT/A3 as determined by mouse bioassay was 5.8 × 107 50% lethal doses (LD50)/mg. Neutralization of BoNT/A3 toxicity by a polyclonal anti-BoNT/A1 antibody was approximately 10-fold less than the neutralization of BoNT/A1 toxicity. In addition, differences in symptoms were observed between mice that were injected with BoNT/A3 and those that were injected with BoNT/A1. These results indicate that BoNT/A3 has novel biochemical and pharmacological properties compared to those of other subtype A toxins.
An unusual late presentation of a congenital diaphragmatic hernia

An unusual and late-presenting case of left Bochdalek diaphragmatic hernia is presented to highlight the fact that the timing and mechanism of presentation of the hernia remains obscure. In this case there were two previous admissions, initially for a left upper lobe lobectomy for congenital lobar emphysema and a subsequent admission for bronchiolitis. He then presented at the age of nine months, with acute respiratory distress and was diagnosed to have a left diaphragmatic hernia. This is the first case of a late- presenting congenital diaphragmatic hernia reported in association with a previous ipsilateral lobectomy for congenital lobar emphysema. A brief review of late -presenting congenital diaphragmatic hernias is given and an alternative theory is proposed for the mechanism of late presentation.
Effects of long-range links on metastable states in a dynamic interaction network

We introduce a model for random-walking agents on a two-dimensional periodic lattice, where the dynamic interaction network is defined using local short-range interactions and $E$ randomly added long-range interactions. With periodic states for agents and an interaction rule of repeated averaging, we numerically find two types of metastable states at low- and high-$E$ limits, respectively, along with consensus states. If we apply this model to opinion dynamics, metastable states can be interpreted as sustainable diversities in our societies, and our results then imply that, while diversities decrease and eventually disappear with more long-range interactions, other types of diverse states can appear under this rule when networks are almost fully connected.
Removal of an intragastric foreign body using the flexible fiberoptic esophagoscope

Still another clever maneuver for the endoscopic extraction of ingested foreign objects is described. An open safety pin was withdrawn from the stomach with no mucosal injury.
Consistency and Relativity in Selective Recall with Differing Ego‐Involvement

In appraising equal numbers of pro and con attitude-relevant statements, subjects created twice as many balanced as imbalanced structures, thus later also recalled more balanced information. However, relative to the available pools they created, they recalled proportionately more imbalanced than balanced information. Higher ego-involvement accentuated all of these processes. Instructional set and delay time did not alter the pattern, although immediate recall was superior. Recall results do not support simple selective hypotheses, favouring either agreed-with or attitude-favourable information. Selective recall for imbalanced information suggests revision of balance hypotheses tested previously by data reflecting larger pools of balanced structures created by subjects with ego-involving attitudes.
Structural biology: a new look for the APC.

Solving the structure of protein complexes is particularly challenging when they contain many subunits. In the case of the APC, a fruitful strategy has been to gain information by subtracting subunits. See Article p.227 and Letter p.274 The large size of the anaphase-promoting complex or cyclosome (APC/C) and its low natural abundance combine to make quantitative structural and mechanistic studies of the complex difficult. Two linked papers take on the challenge. Schreiber et al. have reconstituted the entire APC/C complex and, in combination with structural studies, provide a pseudo-atomic model for 70% of the complex. These results contribute towards a molecular understanding of the roles of individual subunits in APC/C assembly and their interactions with co-activators, substrates and regulatory proteins. Da Fonseca et al. present a cryo-electron microscopy structure of APC/CCdh1 bound to a D-box peptide substrate. The structure provides insight into the recognition and catalytic mechanism of APC/C substrates.
A vibrational investigation of several platinum and palladium cyclopentene complexes

Abstract Complete vibrational assignments of the complexes [Cl 2 Pt(C 5 H 8 )] 2 , [Br 2 Pt(C 5 H 8 )] 2 , [Cl 2 Pd(C 5 H 8 )] 2 and [Br 2 Pd(C 5 H 8 )] 2 have been undertaken from 1500 to 70 cm −1 . A reinvestigation of the cyclopentene spectrum was necessary and a new set of assignments is given. The v (CC) shifts down about 200 cm −1 for all the complexes and represents the largest shift observed for a Pd-mono-olefln complex. The shifts observed for the cyclopentene vibrations upon complexation as well as the fact that there are two platinum-carbon stretching frequencies but only one palladium-carbon stretching frequency is consistent with a strong π interaction in the platinum complexes leading to a bonding scheme and a predominantly σ interaction in the palladium complexes with the bonding scheme being the best description. It appears, however, that the total interaction, i.e. σ + π, is about the same in the complexes studied.
Travel by families with children possessing disabilities: Motives and activities

Abstract While research to understand the family as a leisure travel unit has received significant attention in recent years, little research has been undertaken on families of children with disabilities. This current study seeks to investigate the tourism motivation and activities of Korean families with disabled children through a sample of 161 such families. Utilizing a factor analysis, this study identified five motivational factors and seven activity factors. Among them, “physical competence (mastery) of disabled children” appeared to be the most important motivational factor for families of children with disabilities, while “sedentary outdoor activities” were revealed as the most prominent activity in which they engaged during family leisure trips. This study further examined the interrelationships between trip motivations and activity domains and identified significant linkages between the two. Also discussed are the theoretical and managerial implications of the findings, and recommendations for more effective service for these groups of families.
One-pot synthesis of arene-fused 2-acylcyclohexenones from propargylic carboxylates

From readily available propargylic carboxylates, two sequential transformations—gold-catalyzed tandem reactions and Sc(OTf)3-catalyzed cyclization—in a one-pot process led to the formation of 2-acylcyclohexenones with an electron-rich arene ring fused at the 4,5-positions.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation versus electroconvulsive therapy for major depression: preliminary results of a randomized trial.

Abstract Background: Many severely depressed patients do not benefit from or tolerate existing treatments. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been reported to benefit depression. We compared rTMS to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in severely ill, depressed patients. Methods: Twenty-five patients with a major depression (unipolar or bipolar) deemed clinically appropriate for ECT were randomly assigned to rTMS (10–20 treatments, 10 Hz, 110% motor threshold applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for a total of 10,000–20,000 stimulations) or a course of bitemporal ECT (4–12 treatments). The primary outcome measure was the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Young Mania Rating Scale (YMS), and Clinical Global Impression scale (CGI) were secondary measures. Minimal rescue medications were utilized. Results: Mean percent improvement on the baseline HDRS score did not significantly differ between the two treatments (i.e., 55% for the rTMS group vs. 64% for the ECT group [ p = ns]). With response defined as a 50% reduction from baseline and a final score ≤ 8 on the HDRS, there was also no significant difference between the two groups. We did not observe any differences between groups on the secondary measures. Conclusions: A 2–4 week randomized, prospective trial comparing rTMS to ECT produced comparable therapeutic effects in severely depressed patients.
Pre-B-cell colony-enhancing factor, a novel cytokine of human fetal membranes.

Objective: Our purpose was to determine whether pre-B-cell colony-enhancing factor (PBEF) is expressed in the human fetal membranes during normal gestation and parturition in the absence of infection and to show its effects on the expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8. Study Design: PBEF was immunolocalized in the fetal membranes from early pregnancy, at preterm, and at term. Its expression was quantitated by Northern analysis in separated uninfected amnion, chorion, decidua, and placenta of patients at term before labor and in full-thickness membranes before and after spontaneous labor at preterm and at term. Amnion-like epithelial (WISH) cells and fetal membrane explants were treated with recombinant PBEF (rhPBEF), and the expression of IL-6 and IL-8 was quantitated. Results: PBEF was immunolocalized throughout gestation in the amniotic epithelium and mesenchymal cells as well as the chorionic cytotrophoblast and parietal decidua. Northern analysis showed significantly more (P <.01) PBEF expressed in the amnion than in either chorion or placenta. Its expression increased after labor at both preterm and term and correlated with that of IL-8 (r = 0.87). rhPBEF treatment of WISH cells significantly increased IL-6 (P <.05) and IL-8 (P <.01) gene expression after 4 hours and of IL-8 protein after 24 hours (P <.01); similar 4-hour treatment of fetal membrane explants significantly increased IL-6 (P <.01) and IL-8 (P <.05) gene expression. Conclusion: PBEF is a novel cytokine constitutively expressed by the fetal membranes during pregnancy. It increased the expression of IL-6 and IL-8 and may be important in both normal spontaneous labor and infection-induced preterm labor. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:1051-8.)
Islamic expressions in a Christian text: crossing the linguistic barriers between religions. A case study of Lebanon in the interwar period

In countries such as Lebanon, with the historical presence of a variety of large religious communities, particular linguistic expressions may reveal the religious affiliation of the individual using them. This article analyses the opposite phenomenon: the purposeful use of expressions associated with other religious groups in the written discourse of an individual. This case study will explore the novel Būnā Anṭūn (Father Antun), written in 1937 by the journalist and author Karam Melhem Karam, in which the writer, who was a Maronite, constantly uses expressions associated with Islam. This article suggests that these expressions reflect the well-established multi-religious character of the society and that they are deliberately used as a way to rebel against an imposed sectarian social system.