cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Outpatient Diabetic Outcome During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Single Center Analysis

Background: Previous studies have shown that telemedicine is an effective alternative method for health care delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic has acutely stimulated expansion of telemedicine across the country. This study aimed to determine characteristics of telehealth visit and short term HbA1c outcome in patients with diabetes mellitus in endocrinology clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A single center retrospective chart review was conducted in all patients seen in endocrinology clinic for diabetes mellitus between 5/27/2020–7/20/2020. Data were extracted from electronic medical record. The primary research question is percentage of patients who achieved HbA1C ≤ 8% at 3 month follow up. Secondary research questions are characteristic of patients and clinic visits, diabetic technology usage, 3 month follow up mean HbA1c and HbA1c change. This project was approved by the institutional review boards. Results: Two hundred and six diabetic patients were seen: 72 (35%) in person, 49 (24%) phone visit, and 85 (41%) VDO visit. Mean age for patients adopted in person visit was 57 (SD 15) years, phone visit was 68 (SD 13) years and VDO visit was 54 (SD 18) years, p l0.001. Male percentage for in person, phone and VDO visit was 44%, 59% and 61% respectively, p 0.09. New consult visit percentage for in person, phone and VDO visit was 7%, 2% and 5% respectively, p 0.46. Percentage of patients using insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring for in person, phone and VDO visit was 33%, 43% and 54%, respectively, p 0.03. Baseline HbA1c was done in 89% (64/72) in person, 45% (22/49) phone and 52% (44/85) VDO visit. Among patients who had baseline HbA1c, average HbA1c was 8.6% (SD 1.8) for in person visit, 8.0% (SD 1.1) for phone visit and 8.1% (SD 1.8) for VDO visit, p 0.25. At 3 months, HbA1c was done in 38% of patients who had in person visit, 36% phone visit, and 43% VDO visit. Among patients who had 3 month follow up HbA1c, HbA1c ≤ 8% was achieved in 50%, 61% and 69% for in person, phone and VDO respectively, p 0.56. Mean 3 month follow up HbA1c was 8.1% (SD 1.3), 7.7% (SD 0.9) and 7.8% (SD 1.6) for in-person, phone and VDO visit respectively, p 0.47. Comparing mean HbA1c in patients who had both baseline and 3 month follow up HbA1c, changes were significant for in person visit 9.1% to 8.1% (p 0.01) and VDO visit 8.7% to 7.6% (p 0.01). No significant change in 3 month follow up HbA1c was observed in phone visit, 7.7% to 7.6% (p 0.88). Conclusions: This retrospective study showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, no differences in short term HbA1c outcome (3 month follow up mean HbA1c and percentage of patients who achieved HbA1c ≤ 8%) were observed among patients who adopted in-person and telehealth visit. Patients who adopted phone visit appeared to be older;and there was more diabetic technology usage (insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring) among patients who adopted telehealth (phone and VDO) compared to in person visit.
Digital and blended curriculum delivery in health professions education: an umbrella review with implications for Doctor of Physical Therapy education programs

Physical therapy education programs are incorporating digital delivery strategies into their curricula more than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. The literature on digital and blended strategies ...
Speech, song and the transparency of medium: A note on operatic metaphysics

Analyse de la distinction entre la chanson realiste et la chanson d'opera dans laquelle reside, selon Cone, l'ambiguite fondamentale de l'opera ( « The World of Opera and Its Inhabitants », 1989)
Post-surgical infections and perioperative antibiotics usage in pediatric genitourinary procedures.

Summary Background Post-surgical infections (PSIs) are a source of preventable perioperative morbidity. No guidelines exist for the use of perioperative antibiotics in pediatric urologic procedures. Objective This study reports the rate of PSIs in non-endoscopic pediatric genitourinary procedures at our institution. Secondary aims evaluate the association of PSI with other perioperative variables, including wound class (WC) and perioperative antibiotic administration. Study design Data from consecutive non-endoscopic pediatric urologic procedures performed between August 2011 and April 2014 were examined retrospectively. The primary outcome was the rate of PSIs. PSIs were classified as superficial skin (SS) and deep/organ site (D/OS) according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, and urinary tract infection (UTI). PSIs were further stratified by WC1 and WC2 and perioperative antibiotic usage. A relative risk and chi-square analysis compared PSI rates between WC1 and WC2 procedures. Results A total of 1185 unique patients with 1384 surgical sites were reviewed; 1192 surgical sites had follow-up for inclusion into the study. Ten total PSIs were identified, for an overall infection rate of 0.83%. Of these, six were SS, one was D/OS, and three were UTIs. The PSI rate for WC1 (885 sites) and WC2 (307 sites) procedures was 0.34% and 2.28%, respectively, p p = 0.0055). The rate of infections in WC1 procedures was similar between those receiving and not receiving perioperative antibiotics (0.35% vs. 0.33%). All WC2 procedures received antibiotics. Discussion Post-surgical infections are associated with significant perioperative morbidity. In some studies, PSI can double hospital costs, and contribute to hospital length of stay, admission to intensive care units, and impact patient mortality. Our study demonstrates that the rate of PSI in WC1 operations is low, irrespective of whether the patient received perioperative antibiotics (0.35%) or no antibiotics (0.33%). WC2 operations were the larger source of morbidity with an infection rate of 2.28% and a 6.7 fold higher increase in relative risk. Conclusions WC1 procedures have a rate of infection around 0.3%, which is independent of the use of perioperative antibiotics. WC2 procedures have a higher rate of infection, with a relative risk of 6.7 for the development of PSI, and should be the target of guidelines for periprocedural prophylaxis. Table . Infection occurrence rate based on surgical site. Surgical site Infection rate % (occurrences/total surgical sites) Overall Wound class 1 Wound class 2 Overall 0.83% (10/1132) 0.34% (3/885) 2.28% (7/307) Penis 0.85% (6/705) 0.42% (2/471) 1.71% (4/234) Abdominal 1.29% (3/232) 0% (0/159) 4.11% (3/73) Inguinal 0% (0/101) 0% (0/101) n/a Scrotal 0.64% (1/154) 0.64% (1/154) n/a
Metallic glasses: Cryogenic rejuvenation.

Thermal cycling of a metallic glass to cryogenic temperatures has been found to cause atomic-scale structural rejuvenation.
Review of US utility demand-side bidding programs. Impacts, costs, and cost-effectiveness.

Abstract In this study, we review utility experiences with demand-side management (DSM) bidding programs. Since 1987, about 35 US utilities have signed long-term contracts with developers of DSM resources (ie energy service companies and customers) to provide a quantity of demand and energy savings at specified prices. Total resource costs range between 5.4 and 8 cents/kWh for 10 DSM bidding programs where complete information on program costs is available. Almost all DSM bidding programs have been cost-effective compared with the utility's own supply-side alternatives, although there is substantial disagreement regarding the value of these programs compared with the utility's own DSM programs. In most bidding programs, payments to bidders account for between 70 and 90% of total program costs. Variation in winning bid prices is influenced primarily by DSM bid ceiling prices, differences in the mix of measures and markets targeted by developers, and the degree of performance risk borne by the DSM developer. Bids targeting residential customers averaged 6.2 cents/kWh compared with about 5.0 cents/kWh for commercial/industrial bids. We also compared the costs of acquiring lighting savings in DSM bidding contracts with a sample of 20 utility-sponsored commercial/industrial lighting programs. We found that, on average, total resource costs were slightly higher in bidding programs (6.1 vs 5.6 cents/kWh), although ratepayers bear significantly less performance risk in bidding programs compared with traditional utility-sponsored DSM programs.
Shareholder Enforced Market Discipline: How Much Is Too Much?

This Article considers the federal banking regulation regime implemented in response to the widespread bank failures of the 1980s and early 1990s. The first section of the Article examines the moral hazard problem created by the presence of the deposit insurance scheme and the market discipline debate that has attempted to correct the moral hazard problem. The Author argues that the law has evolved to make bank holding companies the primary enforcers of market discipline. The Article’s second section examines the specific regulatory changes that have been designed to create an incentive for bank holding companies to impose discipline on bank management. The source of strength doctrine, regulatory agreements, capital restoration plans, the elaboration of a general fiduciary duty to regulators, equitable subordination, cross-guarantee provisions, preferences, and fraudulent conveyances all are part of a strategy to make bank holding companies more responsible for bank failure. The third section of the Article looks at the potential effects of the regulatory scheme. The Author argues that the regulatory attempts to make bank holding companies the enforcers of market discipline are misguides because they will not achieve their intend effect. Instead, the banking industry will be saddled with excessive regulations that will place it at a competitive disadvantage relative to the other players in the financial services industry.
A compilation framework for distributed memory parallelization of data mining algorithms

With the availability of large datasets in a variety of scientific and commercial domains, data mining has emerged as an important area within the last decade. Data mining techniques focus on finding novel and useful patterns or models from large datasets. Because of the volume of the data to be analyzed, the amount of computation involved, and the need for rapid or even interactive analysis, data mining applications require the use of parallel machines. We believe that parallel compilation technology can be used for providing high-level language support for carrying out data mining implementations. Our study of a variety of popular data mining techniques has shown that they can be parallelized in a similar fashion. In our previous work, we have developed a middleware system that exploits this similarity to support distributed memory parallelization and execution on disk-resident datasets. This paper focuses on developing a data parallel language interface for using our middleware's functionality. We use a data parallel dialect of Java and show that it is well suited for data mining algorithms. Compiler techniques for translating this dialect to a middleware specification are presented. The most significant of these is a new technique for extracting a global reduction function from a data parallel loop. We present a detailed experimental evaluation of our compiler using a priori association mining, k-means clustering, and k-nearest neighbor classifiers. Our experimental results show that: 1) compiler generated parallel data mining codes achieve high speedups in a cluster environment, 2) the performance of compiler generated codes is quite close to the performance of manually written codes, and 3) simple additional optimizations like inlining can further reduce the gap between compiled and manual codes.
Aphids Associated with Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in the Matanuska Valley, Alaska

ABSTRACT Commercial lettuce fields in Alaska were surveyed for aphid infestations and species composition. Sixteen species were collected in green tile trap pans. The majority were Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach), Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas), and Pemphigus spp. Pemphigus populitransversus Riley, Subacyrthosiphon, and Cryptobium Hille Ris Lambers were added to Alaska collection records. Macrosiphum euphorbiae complex were the only aphids to colonize lettuce during the 1994 season. Seedlings were infested with aphids within four days of transplanting and more alates landed on 1–3 week old seedlings than on older plants. During the 1–3 week seedling period, more alates were recorded on head lettuce than leaf lettuce. Percent infested plants averaged 9.2 and 19.3 for leaf and head lettuce, respectively, during that period. Green tile trap pans were not effective indicators of aphid activity in lettuce fields under these test conditions.
Discrete Event Systems: Untimed Models and their Analysis

This article introduces the class of dynamic systems known as discrete event systems, which are characterized by event-driven transitions over a discrete set of states. The modeling formalism of automata is employed, and their language properties characterized. Parallel composition of automata is defined. Analysis of logical properties of discrete event systems modeled by automata is discussed, with a special focus on partially observed systems and event diagnosis using diagnoser automata. Keywords: discrete event systems; automata; languages; safety properties; blocking; parallel composition; observers; diagnosers
Student Peer Teaching: An Innovative Approach to Instruction in Science and Engineering Education

This paper reports the results of a pilot-study in a senior paper science and engineering class, of an innovative instructional method designed to foster student problem-solving and in-depth learning of material, namely, student peer teaching. We review related literature focusing on active learning methods in science and engineering education, describe the method of student peer teaching used in this pilot-study, present the evaluation method and results, and discuss implications for further development of this method of instruction. Results suggest that students were able to effectively teach significant curricular content. In addition, the method of student peer teaching served important purposes in helping students develop in-depth understanding and expertise in the issues related to their teaching session, as well as teaching and presentation skills which will be useful in their professional practice. However, students expressed concern that, while achieving in-depth learning of the content of their teaching session, they tended to focus on the content area of their teaching session at the expense of other content areas and may not have learned as well from other students as from the Professor. We recommend a modified structure for student peer teaching which incorporates cooperative learning methods; increased Professor involvement in class sessions, in the role of the mentor; and modifications in performance evaluation methods to ensure ongoing student monitoring of progress and self-assessment. The method of student peer teaching, in science and engineering education, combined with cooperative learning methods, is viewed as a major extension of cooperative learning methods, used in the service of preparation for professional careers.
Microcosm and Experimental Pond Evaluation of Microbial Community Response to Synthetic Oil Contamination in Freshwater Sediments

A multivariate approach was used to evaluate the significance of synthetic oil-induced perturbations in the functional activity of sediment microbial communities. Total viable cell densities, ATP-biomass, alkaline phosphatase and dehydrogenase activity, and mineralization rates of glucose, protein, oleic acid, starch, naphthalene, and phenanthrene were monitored on a periodic basis in microcosms and experimental ponds for 11 months, both before and after exposure to synthetic oil. All variables contributed to significant discrimination between sediment microbial responses in control communities and communities exposed to a gradient of synthetic oil contamination. At high synthetic oil concentrations (4,000 ml/12 m3), a transient reduction in sediment ATP concentrations and increased rates of oleic acid mineralization were demonstrated within 1 week of exposure. These transient effects were followed within 1 month by a significant increase in rates of naphthalene and phenanthrene mineralization. After initial construction, both control and synthetic oil-exposed microbial communities demonstrated wide variability in community activity. All experimental microbial communities approached equilibrium and demonstrated good replication. However, synthetic oil perturbation was demonstrated by wide transient variability in community activity. This variability was primarily the result of the stimulation of polyaromatic hydrocarbon mineralization rates. In general, microcosms and pond communities demonstrated sufficient resiliency to recover from the effects of synthetic oil exposure within 3 months, although polyaromatic hydrocarbon mineralization rates remained significantly elevated.
Matching Random Tree Models of Spatio-Temporal Patterns to Tables or Graphs

The problem of matching random tree models of multi-component patterns to tables or graphs containing components extracted from diverse data sources is considered. We focus on bi-level trees whose branches emanate from one root node and terminate on different leaf nodes. Node and branch attributes are treated as random variables. Tree nodes represent pattern components of specified types that occur in tables or graphs to be searched. For each item in the table or graph with a type match to the tree root, there is a set of components from the table or graph that are candidate leaves for optimal matches to the tree model. We adopt a view of optimal matches to random tree models as minimum cost assignments of candidate leaves to tree branches. Model-based formulas are derived for computing costs associated with assignments of specific candidate leaf components from tables or graphs to specific tree branches. We specify an ontology suitable for dynamic geo-spatial query problems in which (1) tree nodes represent physical objects or events on the ground (buildings, roads, communication transmissions...), and (2) branch attributes characterize, with uncertainty, distance or time separations between components, and angles between links connecting components. Our approach is used to search very large images for specific types of buildings in probabilistically constrained spatial arrangements, with the goal of ranking model matches for efficient inspection by human analysts.
Interfirm differences in scale economies and the evolution of market shares

Evolutionary and resource-based theories imply that firms in an industry with different resources and capabilities may differ in critical characteristics of their production functions, such as economies of scale. This paper measures these inter-firm differences in economies of scale and examines how they affect the subsequent evolution of the market share distribution in the money market mutual fund industry. The findings indicate that fund families with larger marginal benefits to increasing their scale do subsequently gain market share at the expense of their rivals, but that this effect diminishes as the fund family ages, perhaps as a consequence of imitation. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of type of dietary protein on acid-base status, protein nutritional status, plasma levels of amino acids, and nutrient balance in the very low birth weight infant.

Study objective: To determine the effect of the type of dietary protein (3.3 gm/kg per day) on acid-base status, protein nutritional status, plasma amino acid concentrations, and nutrient (nitrogen, fat, mineral, trace element) balance. Subjects: Preterm infants (birth weight ≤1250 gm, gestational age ≤32 weeks) with no evidence of systemic disease, who had achieved a minimal enteral intake of 110 kcal/kg per day by 21 days of age. Interventions: Each infant was fed three study formulas that differed only with respect to the ratio of whey to casein (60:40, 35:65, 18:82). Each formula was given for 1 week. At the end each week, blood was drawn and a 48-hour balance was determined. Main results: Late metabolic acidosis, uremia, and hyperammonemia were not observed. No differences in pH or serum bicarbonate were noted. Base excess was greater with the casein-predominant formula (18:82>35:65, 60:40) but remained within normal limits for the preterm infant. Plasma concentrations of threonine (60:40>35:65>18:82), phenylanine, and tyrosine (18:82>35:65> 60:40) differed. Nitrogen absorption (60:40 18:82), and phosphorus absorption (60:40 Conclusions: At an intake of 3.3 gm/kg per day, the type of dietary protein had little effect on metabolic status. Differences in plasma amino acid concentrations and nutrient balance suggest that a formula containing protein with a whey/casein ratio of 35:65 may be preferable to that with a whey/casein ratio of 60:40 or 18:82 for the very low birth weight infant.
Corrigendum to “Preliminary assessment of accident-tolerant fuels on LWR performance during normal operation and under DB and BDB accident conditions” [J. Nucl. Mater. 448 (2014) 520–533]

In Section 5.2, certain material properties for ‘‘FeCrAl oxide’’ were not modeled based on ‘‘stainless steel oxide’’ as indicated in the text. Instead, the ‘‘FeCrAl oxide’’ material properties were modeled using the default properties in MELCOR for ‘‘zirconium oxide’’. The properties affected are the FeCrAl oxide density, specific heat, enthalpy, thermal conductivity, melting point, and latent heat of fusion. Table 5.1 and Figs. 5.1a–d from Section 5.2 have been corrected below. As discussed below, the overall conclusions of the paper remain unchanged. For clarification, in the MELCOR code, the cladding and channel boxes are composed of a metallic and an oxidic material which are tracked separately. Bulk material properties are specified for the two materials. The metallic material which is predicted to be oxidized is converted into the oxide material. While oxidized FeCrAl contains a combination of different oxides, it is modeled as a single material with effective properties. The purpose of the paper is to provide a preliminary assessment of advanced fuel concepts over a range of operating and accident conditions. The discrepancy only affects the oxidic properties for FeCrAl used in the beyond design basis accident analyses (Section 5.0). As noted in the Conclusions section, the benefits
Dihydrotestosterone induces a sexual dimorphism in estrogen uptake by specific anterior pituitary cell types in vivo

Castrated male and female rats pretreated with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were injected i.v. with 3H-estradiol (E2). Nuclear uptake and retention of 3H-E2 was measured in each of five cell types of the anterior pituitary gland using a combined quantitative autoradiographic and immunocytochemical procedure. In non-pretreated groups, each cell type bound a characteristic amount of ligand but no sex differences were apparent. DHT pretreatment, however, caused a significant decrease in 3H-E2 retention by gonadotrophs in both males and females. The treatment also caused a decrease in binding by lactotrophs and somatotrophs, but only in the females. No other cell types were altered. Thus, androgen appears to modulate E2 binding and retention by pituitary cells in both a cell-type and sexdependent manner. Our results also indicate that the inhibitory effects of androgens on E2 binding by the pituitary gland is more complex than can be explained by simple competition for the estrogen receptor.
PRACTICAL TRAINING FOR COMPLIANCE OFFICERS: AN ASSESSMENT

The purpose of this paper is to examine the attitudes of financial service compliance officers towards the provision of practical training in specific aspects of regulatory development, criminal law and procedure which have a significant impact upon their role and function as compliance officers. The paper starts by considering the qualifications of financial service compliance officers, before setting out the aims and contents of a three‐day course designed for compliance officers. After describing the attendees on the course, it gives their assessment of the course and examines their attitudes to what is the proper role of the financial service compliance office.
Deviant nucleosomes: the functional specialization of chromatin

Regulatory proteins exist with strong sequence and structural similarities to the histone proteins. Molecular genetic and cell biological analyses suggest that these proteins are localized at particular sites within the chromosome. Their assembly into nucleosomal structures confers specialized functions to individual chromosomal domains.
Prospecting the proteome: identification of naturally occurring binding motifs for biarsenical probes.

Fluorescent biarsenical probes function by binding to peptide tags genetically engineered into a protein under study. We have found an improved, less rigid tag to bind FlAsH and other xanthene-based biarsenicals.
Teaching Hands-on Urban Forestry Health Assessment Using the Resistograph and the CTLA Method

Undergraduate students were instructed how to assess the health of 24 urban willow oak trees. Students received hands-on training using the Resistograph 400 on two sites: a depressional site and a well-drained site on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University in an upper division Urban Forestry course. Students followed the instructed and prescribed method of drilling three holes at 120 degree intervals at 3.5 feet in height above ground in each oak tree. Tree condition data were recorded on paper strips and analyzed in laboratory for percent decay measured for each sample. The results were averaged for the three samples per tree and the percent of soundwood was determined. Resistograph data were then analyzed by the students using SAS ANOVA for the 24 trees within the two sites. Results indicted a significantly higher amount of decay on the depressional sites compared to the well-drained sites. Data collected using the standard CTLA tree health assessment method indicated willow oaks in depressional sites had a significantly lower condition rating based on six measured tree variables. This study demonstrated that incorporating intensive hands-on instruction within an undergraduate student’s education increases retention rates, enhances their educational experience, and produces a more well-rounded urban forester.
A micromethod for the determination of hydrogen sulfide.

Abstract An analytical procedure suitable for the determination of soluble sulfide in the range of 10–100 μg of sulfide sulfur is described. The method is based upon procedures involving the precipitation of colloidal lead sulfide. stabilization and particle size control with gum arabic, and quantification in the photoelectric colorimeter. The method is simple, convenient, and rapid, and it has excellent precision in intermediary concentration ranges. It is useful where large numbers of samples must be analyzed simultaneously.
A Null Association between Active or Passive Cigarette Smoking and Breast Cancer Risk

The effect of smoking on breast cancer risk has been null in large, well-conducted cohort studies. In a previous study, we stratified the population into active smokers, passive smokers, and never-active never-passive smokers and modeled early life cigarette smoke exposures as causal and later life cigarette smoke exposure as preventive. We observed a complex association between cigarette smoke and breast cancer risk. Using a similar design and population, this study did not confirm the earlier result. Neither ever-active smoking (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.72, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.55-0.95) nor ever-passive smoking (adjusted OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.63-1.1) were strongly associated with breast cancer risk compared with never-active never-passive smoking. No patterns of effects were observed in subgroup analyses.
The activator-recruited cofactor/Mediator coactivator subunit ARC92 is a functionally important target of the VP16 transcriptional activator

The human activator-recruited cofactor (ARC), a family of large transcriptional coactivator complexes related to the yeast Mediator, was recently identified based on functional association with the activation domains of multiple cellular and viral transcriptional activators, including the herpes simplex viral activator VP16, sterol regulatory element binding protein, and NF-κB. Here we describe the biochemical purification and cloning of the 92-kDa ARC/Mediator subunit, ARC92, that is specifically targeted by the activation domain of the VP16 transactivator. Affinity chromatography using the VP16 activation domain followed by peptide microsequencing led to the identification of ARC92 as a specific cellular interaction partner of the VP16 activation domain. ARC92 associates with the VP16 activation domain in vitro and in vivo, and the VP16 binding domain of ARC92 is a strong competitive inhibitor of Gal4-VP16 in vivo. Moreover, small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of ARC92 in human cells results in selective inhibition of Gal4-VP16 gene activation. Taken together, our results suggest that ARC92 is a direct and specific target of the VP16 transactivator that serves in the context of the ARC/Mediator coactivator as an important transducer of transcription activating signals from the VP16 activation domain to the RNA polymerase II transcriptional machinery.
Cholesterol and cataracts

Inherited defects in enzymes of cholesterol metabolism and use of drugs which inhibit lens cholesterol biosynthesis can be associated with cataracts in animals and man. The basis of this relationship apparently lies in the need of the lens to satisfy its sustained requirement for cholesterol by on-site synthesis, and impairing this synthesis can lead to alteration of lens membrane structure. Lens membrane contains the highest cholesterol content of any known membrane. The Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, mevalonic aciduria, and cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis all involve mutations in enzymes of cholesterol metabolism, and affected patients can develop cataracts. Two established models of rodent cataracts are based on treatment with inhibitors of cholesterol biosynthesis. The long-term ocular safety of the very widely used vastatin class of hypocholesterolemic drugs is controversial. Some vastatins are potent inhibitors of cholesterol biosynthesis by animal lenses, can block cholesterol accumulation by these lenses and can produce cataracts in dogs. Whether these drugs inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis in human lenses at therapeutic doses is unknown. Results of clinical trials of 1-5 years duration in older patient populations indicate high ocular safety. However, considering the slow life-long growth of the lens and its continuing need for cholesterol, longterm safety of the vastatins should perhaps be viewed in units of 10 or 20 years, particularly with younger patients.
Complex retrieval of embedded IVC filters: alternative techniques and histologic tissue analysis.

We evaluated the safety and effectiveness of alternative endovascular methods to retrieve embedded optional and permanent filters in order to manage or reduce risk of long-term complications from implantation. Histologic tissue analysis was performed to elucidate the pathologic effects of chronic filter implantation. We studied the safety and effectiveness of alternative endovascular methods for removing embedded inferior vena cava (IVC) filters in 10 consecutive patients over 12 months. Indications for retrieval were symptomatic chronic IVC occlusion, caval and aortic perforation, and/or acute PE (pulmonary embolism) from filter-related thrombus. Retrieval was also performed to reduce risk of complications from long-term filter implantation and to eliminate the need for lifelong anticoagulation. All retrieved specimens were sent for histologic analysis. Retrieval was successful in all 10 patients. Filter types and implantation times were as follows: one Venatech (1,495 days), one Simon-Nitinol (1,485 days), one Optease (300 days), one G2 (416 days), five Gunther-Tulip (GTF; mean 606 days, range 154–1,010 days), and one Celect (124 days). There were no procedural complications or adverse events at a mean follow-up of 304 days after removal (range 196–529 days). Histology revealed scant native intima surrounded by a predominance of neointimal hyperplasia and dense fibrosis in all specimens. Histologic evidence of photothermal tissue ablation was confirmed in three laser-treated specimens. Complex retrieval methods can now be used in select patients to safely remove embedded optional and permanent IVC filters previously considered irretrievable. Neointimal hyperplasia and dense fibrosis are the major components that must be separated to achieve successful retrieval of chronic filter implants.
Synthesis of 2,3,10,11 -tetraalkoxy-substituted tetrahydrobenzo [a] naphtho [1,2-g] quinolizines

2 Four3,10,11-tetraalkoxy-substituted 5,6,15,15a-tetrahydro-8H-benzo[a]naphtho[1,2-g]-quinolizines were prepared by the Pictet-Spengler cyclization of the respective 1-(6,7-dialkoxy-2-naphthylmethyl)-6,7-dialkoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolines. The latter compounds were obtained by a chemical reduction of the corresponding dihydro compounds, which, in turn, were formed by a Bischler-Napieralski cyclization of the appropriate amides.
Influence of Commercial Diets on Quality Aspects of Cultured Gulf of Mexico Surgeon (Ancipenser oxyrinchus desotoi)

: Cultured sturgeons were fed commercially available diets formulated for hybrid bass, catfish, and trout. The impact of these diets in the quality of the edible muscle was investigated through determination of processing yields, proximate compositions, fatty acid profiles, muscle color, and sensory characteristics. Sturgeon fed the catfish diet were significantly smaller but dressed fillets (percent live weight) were similar for all feeds. Consumer visual acceptability scores were highest for fillets from fish fed the catfish diet, and color differences were determined. Sturgeon fillets from fish fed the trout diet presented a yellowish orange coloration instead of a pale pink coloration. Results show that the diets tested had no detrimental impact in the composition of sturgeon fillets.
Education and Socialization: A Complex Equation

Agroup of provocative and romantic critics (e.g. Illich, 1971; Goodman, 1969; and Reimer, 19,71) have proposed the radical reform, or even total abolition of our school systems. These proposals have excited interest in the press, in journals such as the New York Review, and in some academic quarters. But the proposals have not had noticeable impact on the educational R & D community. Despite the petulence underlying these writings, their authors are addressing a basic problem of all education: the articulation between childhood and adulthood. That is, the child is largely ignorant and undeveloped: how can educators and the education system help him move into productive adulthood? If the educational system is inadequate for the task, we will have, by definition, unhappy adults and an unhappy, unstable society. But the romantic critics are not the only writers who sense that modern learning and socialization systems provide poor articulation between childhood and adulthood. A growing number of historians and sociologists have been concerned with these issues, and have reached conclusions that tend in the same direction as those of the popular critics. This paper surveys these writings, suggests their interrelationships, and presents implications for research.
Diffuse Pancreatic Fibrosis: An Uncommon Feature of Multifocal Idiopathic Fibrosclerosis

Multifocal idiopathic fibrosclerosis (MIF) is a rare syndrome characterized by exuberant fibrosis involving diverse organ systems. MIF is manifest by varying combinations of the following conditions: mediastinal fibrosis, retroperitoneal fibrosis, orbital pseudotumor, Riedel's thyroiditis, and sclerosing cholangitis. Less common features of MIF include Dupuytren's contractures, lymphoid hyperplasia, Peyronie's disease, vasculitis, testicular fibrosis, and pachymeningitis. Fibrosis arising from the pancreas has been previously described in two patients with MIF. We report a 58-yr-old white man with MIF manifest as orbital pseudotumor, sclerosing cholangitis, lymph node hyperplasia, and diffuse pancreatic fibrosis.
A VR based intervention tool for autism spectrum disorder

Recently, there has been increased interest in using Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) in virtual reality (VR) applications [Friedman et al. 2010]. We describe an ongoing research in BCI-enabled immersive VR systems and the development of a VR-based intervention tool based on X3D for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) [Bellani et al. 2011; Munson and Pasqual 2012].
Brown adipose tissue sympathetic nerve activity is potentiated by activation of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1A/5-HT7 receptors in the rat spinal cord

In urethane-chloralose anesthetized, neuromuscularly blocked, ventilated rats, microinjection of NMDA (12 pmol) into the right fourth thoracic segment (T4) spinal intermediolateral nucleus (IML) immediately increased ipsilateral brown adipose tissue (BAT) sympathetic nerve activity (SNA; peak +492% of control), expired CO2 (+0.1%) heart rate (+48 beats min−1) and arterial pressure (+8 mmHg). The increase in BAT SNA evoked by T4 IML microinjection of NMDA was potentiated when it was administered immediately following a T4 IML microinjection of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, 100 pmol) or the 5-HT1A/5-HT7 receptor agonist, 8-OH-DPAT (600 pmol), (area under the curve: 184%, and 259% of the NMDA-only response, respectively). In contrast, T4 IML microinjection of the 5-HT2 receptor agonist, DOI (28 pmol) did not potentiate the NMDA-evoked increase in BAT SNA (101% of NMDA-only response). Microinjection into the T4 IML of the selective 5-HT1A antagonist, WAY-100635 (500 pmol), plus the 5-HT7 antagonist, SB-269970 (500 pmol), prevented the 5-HT-induced potentiation of the NMDA-evoked increase in BAT SNA. When administered separately, WAY-100635 (800 pmol) and SB-269970 (800 pmol) attenuated the 8-OH-DPAT-induced potentiation of the NMDA-evoked increase in BAT SNA through effects on the amplitude and duration of the response, respectively. The selective 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, ketanserin (100 pmol), did not attenuate the potentiations of the NMDA-evoked increase in BAT SNA induced by either 5-HT or 8-OH-DPAT. These results demonstrate that activation of 5-HT1A/5-HT7 receptors can act synergistically with NMDA receptor activation within the IML to markedly increase BAT SNA.
(Solid + liquid) phase equilibria in acetonitrile + tetrachloromethane, +trichloromethane, +trichlorofluoromethane, and +1,1,1-trichlorotrifluoroethane

Abstract Melting temperatures have been measured and (solid + liquid) phase diagrams constructed for acetonitrile + tetrachloromethane, +trichloromethane, +trichlorofluoromethane, and + 1,1,1-trichlorotrifluoroethane. All are simple eutetic systems with solid-phase transitions. The results are compared with the phase diagrams predicted from ideal-mixture behavior. All except “x CH 3 CN + (1 − x) CHCl 3 ’ show large positive deviations from ideality. We have measured the enthalpy of fusion of 1,1,1-trichlorotrifluoroethane with a Hart d.s.c. obtaining a value of (4.11 ± 0.05)kJ · mol−1. The enthalpy of fusion shows that 1,1,1-trichlorotrifluoroethane forms a plastic crystal before melting. The melting temperature is (287.52±0.05) K and a transition to the plastic crystal occurs at (148±2) K.
Improving Matrix Relationships in R&D Organizations – Marketing Support Services

This study examines the relationship between a support group (electronic fabrication) and the internal users of its services in a large government research laboratory recently converted to a matrix structure. The results reveal complex user decisions for selecting sources of support services and a frequent lack of knowledge of the support group's capabilities. Common usage of external sources of services suggests a need for more aggressive “marketing” by the internal group. Use of market research techniques reveals user decision criteria, decision-maker participation and perceptions of the support unit. It is concluded that results of the study provide management of the support group with information necessary to improve services and group image.
Multi-scattering and boundary effects in soil-structure interaction

Abstract This paper presents two applications of a coupled finite element and boundary element method (FEBEM) to two-dimensional, transient problems of scattering of elastic SH waves. One application concerns multi-scattering: examples are shown for scattering from two semi-cylindrical inclusions embedded in a half-plane and separated by a small distance. Responses of one inclusion in the time and frequency domains are compared with those associated with a single inclusion. The other application concerns the effect of the size of the finite element mesh and boundary on accuracy. Response of the flat foundation with rectangular shape and seated on a half-plane is analyzed. It is shown that while simple silent boundaries are quite effective for large models, Rayleigh damping cannot model radiation damping effectively.
Active control of combustion instability: theory and practice

One of the most successful applications of control technology in fluid systems is in the context of dynamic instability in continuous combustion systems. Models of combustion instability have been derived using both physically based and system-identification-based methods. Optimal, time-delay, and adaptive controllers have been designed using these models and demonstrated to lead to an order of magnitude improvement in a range of combustion rigs over empirically designed control methods. We present a survey of the existing theory that includes modeling and control of pressure instability in combustion systems and the practical applications of active control to date in small-, medium-, and large-scale combustion rigs.
Attribution of control and ego development: Marker variables for a model of foster care risk

Abstract Causal explanations for psychopathology among foster populations based solely on experiences surrounding foster placement have not been empirically supported. A contemporary developmental psychopathology perspective, however, guided this research, which proposed instead that organismic variables mediate stress experiences in the etiology of psychopathology. These studies of attribution of control and ego development identified foster risk marker variables, that is, personality characteristics pertinent to both foster status and psychopathology useful for assessing increased or decreased risk as a function of experiences. External attributions were greater among 62 foster than 41 home-reared adolescents. Early stages of ego development were more frequent among 28 foster than 31 home-reared adolescents. From known correlates and hypothesized causes of these characteristics a specific model of foster risk was proposed.
The Translation of Curriculum into Instruction

(1969). The Translation of Curriculum into Instruction. Journal of Curriculum Studies: Vol. 1, No. 2, pp. 115-131.
Identification of Novel Protein Kinase A Phosphorylation Sites in the M-domain of Human and Murine Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein-C Using Mass Spectrometry Analysis

Cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C) is a large multidomain accessory protein bound to myosin thick filaments in striated muscle sarcomeres. It plays an important role in the regulation of muscle contraction, and mutations in the gene encoding cMyBP-C are a common cause of familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young people.(1) The N-terminal domains including the C0, C1, cMyBP-C motif, and C2 domains play a crucial role in maintaining and modulating actomyosin interactions (keeping normal cardiac function) in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. The cMyBP-C motif or “M-domain” is a highly conserved linker domain in the N-terminus of cMyBP-C that contains three to five protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylation sites, depending on species. For the human isoform, three PKA sites were previously identified (Ser275, Ser284, and Ser304), while three homologous sites exist in the murine isoform (Ser273, Ser282, and Ser302). The murine cMyBP-C isoform contains an add...
Mitochondrial changes during the process of awakening from hibernation.

LIVER mitochondrial succinoxidase (SO) activity of hibernating hamsters is markedly lower than that of cold-acclimatized awake controls when assayed at the body temperature of the hibernating hamsters, 7° C1,2. However, when the same mitochondrial preparations are assayed at the body-temperature of awake hamsters, 37° C, no such difference is observed1,2. It is apparent that an SO-inhibiting substance or mechanism in the mitochondria of the hibernating animals operates at 7° C. but not at 37° C.
Clinical Issues in Working with Dual-Career Couples: Implications for Counselors

Dual-career couples represent a rapidly growing segment of the population of partners in the United States. These couples increasingly seek assistance from counselors in negotiating the particular stressors that arise from the dual-career lifestyle. In this article, common stressors facing dual-career couples are discussed. Implications for clinicians are drawn, and suggestions are made to assist counselors working with these couples.
An Evaluation of the Impact of Clinically Embedded Reading Rooms on Radiologist-Referring Clinician Communication

The aim of this study was to investigate whether locating reading rooms in clinical areas at a large tertiary care, academic hospital in the United States corresponds with increased rates of direct communication between radiologists and clinicians. Data recorded included the frequency, form, duration, and general purpose of communications. Two-tailed Fisher's exact tests were used to determine the statistical significance of differences between the frequencies of communication methods for the reading rooms included in the study. During the observation period, there were a total of 175 episodes of communication between radiologists and referring providers in the 4 study reading rooms. There was a highly significant difference ( P P = .4468). Although the purpose of this study was to assess the impact of reading room location on radiologists' communications with referring providers, several alternative hypotheses could also explain the results. The value of this study emerges from the documentation of the high degree of variability among institutions in communication practices among different kinds of radiologists and referring physicians. The extent of these different practices among the 4 reading rooms has important implications for future studies of communication patterns between radiologists and referring providers as well as for designing effective interventions to enhance the role of radiologists as consultants.
Effects of Lysine, Threonine and Methionine on Light-driven Protein Synthesis in Isolated Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Chloroplasts *

Light-driven incorporation of [14C]leucine (LEU) into protein in isolated pea chloroplasts was inhibited by 0.1 and 1 mM lysine (LYS), 0.1–10 mM threonine (THR) and 1 mM methionine (MET). Equimolar combinations of LYS plus THR were inhibitory at both 0.1 and 0.5 mM. Incorporation of [14C] aspartic acid (ASP) and [3H]tyrosine (TYR) was also reduced by 1 mM LYS or THR. In the cases tested, LYS and/or THR inhibitions were partially or fully reversed by 0.1 mM MET. [35S]MET incorporation was unaffected or stimulated by LYS and THR. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that MET is biosynthesized in isolated chloroplasts and that its synthesis is regulated by LYS and/or THR. Of 16 other amino acids tested at 1 mM, isoleucine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine and valine inhibited protein synthesis.