cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a Gender Affirming Surgery Class for Transgender and non-binary Patients and their Caregivers in an Integrated Healthcare Setting.

Background: Gender affirming surgeries are increasingly accessible to transgender and non-binary individuals due to changes in health care coverage policies and rising numbers of trained providers. Improved access to care has led to an increase in the number of individuals pursuing gender affirming surgeries. Little is known about how to optimally prepare patients for these surgeries. Aims: This evaluation examined attendees' assessment of a four-hour single-session class developed to prepare transgender and non-binary patients and their caregivers for gender affirming surgeries in a multi-disciplinary transgender clinic within an integrated health care system. Methods: A multi-disciplinary group of providers within a health maintenance organization in Northern California designed and facilitated two separate curricula, one for patients preparing for metoidioplasty/phalloplasty and the other preparing for vaginoplasty. Between November 2015 and June 2017, 214 patients and caregivers took one of the two versions of the class and completed the post-class survey evaluating perceived favorability of the class and preparedness regarding surgery options, complications and postoperative care. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the Likert scale questions, with 1 showing the least improvement and 5 showing the most. Results: Of the 214 patients and caregivers that completed the survey, the majority reported that they were better informed about their surgical options (mean: 4.4, SD: 0.7), more prepared for surgery (mean: 4.5, SD: 0.6), better informed about possible complications (mean: 4.5, SD: 0.7), and better understood their postoperative care needs (mean: 4.6, SD: 0.6). Of the respondents, 204 (95%) reported they would recommend the course to a friend preparing for gender affirming surgery. Discussion: Our findings demonstrate that a single-session class is a favorable method for preparing transgender and non-binary patients to make informed decisions regarding the perioperative gender affirming surgical process, from preoperative preparedness, to surgical complications, and postoperative care.
Fault-Tolerant Systolic Array Based Accelerators for Deep Neural Network Execution

Editor’s note: Systolic array is embracing its renaissance after being accepted by Google TPU as the core computing architecture of machine learning acceleration. In this article, the authors propose two strategies to enhance fault tolerance of systolic array based deep neural network accelerators. —Yiran Chen, Duke University
Ion Beam Sputtering of Optical Coatings for InP-and GaAs-based Laser Diodes

We report on the performance of ion beam deposited optical coatings for laser diodes. Our results demonstrate a precise control of deposition conditions to tailor thin film properties for anti-reflective and high-reflective coatings.
Perspective: the essential role of NMR in the discovery and characterization of intrinsically disordered proteins

The 2019 ISMAR Prize recognized NMR studies of disordered proteins. Here we provide a highly personal perspective on the discovery of intrinsically disordered proteins and the development and application of NMR methods to characterize their conformational ensembles, dynamics, and interactions.
“Rectification of Appetite” as Education of Desire Within “Moral” Virtue

So-called “moral” as opposed to “intellectual” virtue, in the tradition represented by Aquinas and potentially Aristotle, is not simply a disposition to do actions characteristic of the virtue, but a trait making someone reliably such as to act in that way. Such a trait requires education and shaping of desire, which in the tradition was called “rectification of appetite.” Such a trait cannot be imparted by instruction alone. The distinction of moral from intellectual virtue in Aquinas is discussed; moderation in eating is proposed as a concrete, available, and non-controversial example; and evidence of a similar viewpoint in Aristotle is considered.
It’s Time for World Architecture to Learn from Christopher Alexander: Discovering Humanity’s Relationship with the Universe

Abstract This is a commentary on Per Galle’s review of the work of Christopher Alexander. Galle covers the classic book A Pattern Language and the later four-volume The Nature of Order. Alexander spent many decades deriving a geometrical basis for beauty. The design tools he introduced create humane and living architecture, by adapting to the human body and sensibilities. Alexander discards the postwar ideology pretending that beauty is meaningless, subjective, existing only in the eye of the beholder. This provocative material re-defines architecture. Alexander has always struck a sympathetic chord with non-architects. Galle clarifies the innovative strands of Alexander’s thought for the average practitioner and reader. Implementing them could completely re-orient the way we build all over the world.
Stem Cell Metabolism and Diet.

Diet has profound impacts on health and longevity. Evidence is emerging to suggest that diet impinges upon the metabolic pathways in tissue-specific stem cells to influence health and disease. Here, we review the similarities and differences in the metabolism of stem cells from several tissues and highlight the mitochondrial metabolic checkpoint in stem cell maintenance and aging. We discuss how diet engages the nutrient sensing metabolic pathways and impacts stem cell maintenance. Finally, we explore the therapeutic implications of dietary and metabolic regulation of stem cells. Stem cell transition from quiescence to proliferation is associated with a metabolic switch from glycolysis to mitochondrial OXPHOS and the mitochondrial metabolic checkpoint is critically controlled by the nutrient sensors SIRT2, SIRT3, and SIRT7 in hematopoietic stem cells. Intestine stem cell homeostasis during aging and in response to diet is critically dependent on fatty acid metabolism and ketone bodies and is influenced by the niche mediated by the nutrient sensor mTOR. Nutrient sensing metabolic pathways critically regulate stem cell maintenance during aging and in response to diet. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying dietary and metabolic regulation of stem cells provides novel insights for stem cell biology and may be targeted therapeutically to reverse stem cell aging and tissue degeneration.
Porous Mass: Terra-Cotta Redefined Through Advanced Fabrication

Terra-Cotta Grotto prototype tests the bioclimatic conditioning and experiential qualities of a porous mass by digitally carving out walls from a stack of terra-cotta rain screen panels. The projec...
Banking System Failures in Developing and Transition Countries: Diagnosis and Prediction

Understanding what caused the recent costly wave of banking system failures in developing and transition economies is the key to preventing a recurrence. It is important to distinguish between epidemics of the macroeconomic and micro-economic varieties, and between these and the syndrome of endemic failure, associated with pervasive government involvement. Each type has its characteristic warning signs - the availability of the relevant indicators is discussed in some detail - and a comprehensive prevention policy must take account of each.(This abstract was borrowed from another version of this item.)
Rattus rattus (Black rat)

As we now know, there are two basic chromosome numbers for R. >rattus, one 42 (Folio 229) and the other 38. Apparently Robertsonian processes were involved in the establishment of the two karyotypes (3). Data are rapidly accumulating in regard to the distribution of these two basic numbers over the globe.
Wave normal angle and frequency characteristics of magnetosonic wave linear instability

Magnetosonic waves, also known as equatorial noise emission, can be unstable in the presence of ion ring velocity distribution of ring current population. Earlier studies have demonstrated that such instability can occur near proton harmonic frequencies and near perpendicular propagation with a narrow range of wave normal angle about 90° and that the waves may contribute significantly to electron acceleration in the radiation belt. However, this effect is sensitive to the values of wave normal angles. Instability characteristics in the regime of weak instability, in particular the dependence on the wave frequency and wave normal angle, is investigated for an ion ring distribution modeled by subtraction of two anisotropic Maxwellian distributions. It is found that two types of instabilities, resonant and nonresonant, occur near 90° wave normal angles. Physics of the two instabilities is explained and discussed. The resonant instability, occurring at a finite parallel wave number k∥, is caused by resonant protons near 90° pitch angle, while the nonresonant instability, occurring for a vanishing k∥, is driven by all thermal protons. A formula for the linear nonresonant instability is derived and generalized for an arbitrary ion distribution.
DOA estimation via eigenvector domain harmonic analysis

A novel robust high-resolution direction of arrival (DOA) estimation method is proposed. The proposed method is based on the fact that the signal eigenvectors of the covariance matrix are a linear combination of the direction vectors which contain the DOA information. By applying a high-resolution frequency estimation algorithm to an element sequence of a combination of signal eigenvectors, the proposed method has better performance at low SNR than conventional methods. For example, it is about 5 dB more robust to noise than spatial-smoothed MUSIC and spatial-smoothed minimum-norm. >
Graded LinClosure and its role in relational data analysis

We present graded extension of the algorithm LINCLOSURE. Graded LINCLOSURE can be used to compute degrees of semantic entailment from sets of fuzzy attribute implications. It can also be used together with graded extension of Ganter's NextClosure algorithm to compute non-redundant bases of data tables with fuzzy attributes. We present foundations, the algorithm, and illustrative examples.
Islamic Finance: Principles and Practice by Visser, H.

In the wake of the recent financial crisis, international business headlines questioned whether Islamic finance was insulated from the vagaries of interest rate sensitivity that plagues the convent...
ICEIMT: History and Challenges

ICEIMT was initiated as a multiactivity event to meaningfully address and partially solve a precise set of problems. The history behind the original activ-ity is reviewed in the context of the problem set. Now, as ICEIMT continues ten years later, the problem set has evolved to be immensely more difficult. That new agenda is defined.
Simulations of Carnival Rides and Rube Goldberg Machines for the Visualization of Concepts of Statics and Dynamics

Solid modeling is widely used as a teaching tool in summer activities with high school students. The addition of motion analysis allows concepts from statics and dynamics to be introduced to students in both qualitative and quantitative ways. Two sets of solid modeling projects – carnival rides and Rube Goldberg machines – are shown to allow the students creative freedom while challenging them to understand the physics of the simulated motion. Possible benefits of including similar motion simulations into engineering classes as exercises or in-class demonstrations are discussed.
Radio-frequency transparent dipole antennas

We present the concept of wideband radio-transparent dual-polarized dipole antennas, based on suppressing the scattering of dielectric or conducting rods with suitably designed cloaks. The antennas presented here show low scattering cross-sections at all angles for plane wave incidence, as demonstrated in a conventional reflector-based setup. At the same time, the antennas are shown to be good transmitting and receiving antennas. Compared to a conventional cylindrical dipole with same cross-section, the realized antennas show over 10 dB suppression over a 45% bandwidth, while efficiently radiating as a dual-polarized dipole.
Tungsten-containing polyhedral oligosilasesquioxanes: synthesis, structure and reactivity of (c-C6H11)7Si7O9(O3W[NMe2]3)

Abstract The reaction of the trisilanol (c-C6H11)7Si7O9(OH)3 (1) with an equimolar amount of W(NMe2)6 (2) produces the mixed amide/siloxide complex (c-C6H11)7Si7O9(O3W[NMe2]3) (5). The solid state structure of 5, as determined by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction study, contains a slightly distorted fac-octahedral WN3O3 unit with relatively short WN bonds [1.958(5) A]. The silasesquioxane framework easily accommodates the size and steric demands of the W(NMe2)3 substrate with SiOW = 162.4(3)° and WO = 1.947(4) A. Despite the obtuse SiOW linkages there does not appear to be exceptionally strong π-interactions between the oxygen atoms and the tungsten centre in this complex. Consistent with the steric bulk and poor electron donating capabilities of the siloxide ligand, complex 5 is relatively inert towards further protonolysis of the three remaining amide groups which are engaged in π-bonding to the metal centre.
The Global Geek: Language Training for IT Students' Study Abroad in Austria and Germany

Recognizing the global role of information technology, this article describes a USDOE-funded transatlantic mobility program in the area of IT project management. The project enhances intercultural as well as German language skills and promotes a mutual understanding of EU and US cultures. The relationship between IT and German-language programs addresses the MLA's recent appeal to language departments to train students in all disciplines in global readiness, cultural literacy, and the international exchange of knowledge and creativity. This article outlines the results of quantitative and qualitative assessments of the program's achievement of these goals.
Interendothelial gap size of subendocardial vs subepicardial capillaries

Abstract The intercellular endothelial junctions of subendocardial and subepicardial capillaries of rat ventricular myocardium have been studied following in vitro exposure to lanthanum and uranyl acetate staining en bloc. While the intercellular clefts of subendocardial capillaries are uniformly filled by tracer particles, the interendothelial clefts of subepicardial capillaries are only partially permeated by the tracer. The width of the gaps at junctional areas in these capillaries has been determined in the uranyl acetate-treated material. Mean gap distances for subendocardial capillaries are significantly larger than those of subepicardial capillaries. The functional implications of these observations are discussed.
An Ecological Perspective on Cumulative School and Neighborhood Risk Factors Related to Achievement.

Most educational reform programs, including No Child Left Behind, operate from the perspective that gaps in academic achievement can be reduced by improvements in the educational process directed by school administrators and teachers. This perspective ignores the ecological context in which underachieving schools are typically embedded. Using a developmental approach, we show that school-wide achievement of elementary school children in New York City, the nation's largest public school system, is better characterized by the accumulation of multiple risk factors within schools and within the neighborhoods where they are situated. School risk factors include teacher experience, teacher and student mobility, teacher absences, and school building quality. Neighborhood risk factors include proportion in poverty, parental educational attainment, proportion of single parents, housing quality, residential crowding, and neighborhood deterioration. Cumulative risk within each of these ecological domains, as well as their interaction, is significantly associated with school-wide achievement.
Profiles of glutamate and GABA efflux in core versus peripheral zones of focal cerebral ischemia in mice.

Efflux of glutamate during cerebral ischemia is known to contribute to brain cell death via processes of excitotoxicity. However, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is also released during ischemia, and may be protective. In this study, we used in vivo microdialysis to map the efflux of glutamate and GABA from central core and peripheral zones of focal ischemia in mouse brain. We show that the temporal profiles of glutamate and GABA efflux are significantly different in core versus peripheral zones. Calculation of glutamate/GABA ratios demonstrate that, in the core, there is a significant increase above baseline ratios during the first 30 mm of ischemia, which then rapidly renormalizes. In contrast, no significant changes in glutamate/GABA ratios were seen in the ischemic periphery. These data suggest that imbalances in glutamate versus GABA efflux may be an initial trigger of excitotoxic brain damage in the core but not the peripheral zones of focal cerebral ischemia.
An internal approach to covering groups

Abstract This note gives an account of normalizers and covering groups more general than both the F -normalizers and F -covering groups of Carter, Hawkes and Gaschutz and the X -normalizers and X -covering groups given by M. J. Prentice. The extended notions are used in an iterative scheme which produces covering groups from normalizers, and the rate of convergence of this method in the case of F -normalizers is compared with the rates of related procedures developed by Yen and by Fischer, Mann, and Graddon. The context is the theory of finite solvable groups.
FJOS: Practical, predictable, and efficient system support for fork/join parallelism

With the increasing use of multi- and many-core processors in real-time and embedded systems, software's ability to utilize those cores to increase system capability and functionality is important. Of particular interest is intra-task parallelism whereby a single task is able to harness the computational power of multiple cores to do processing of a complexity that is untenable on a single core. This paper introduces the design and implementation of FJOS, a system supporting predictable and efficient fork/join, intra-task parallelism. FJOS is implemented using abstractions that are close to the hardware, and decouples parallelism management, from thread coordination, yielding efficient fast-path operations. Compared to a traditional fork/join implementation, results show that FJOS has less overhead, is more scalable up to 40 cores, and can generally make better use of parallelism. We modify a response-time analysis to integrate system overheads to assess schedulability in a hard real-time environment, and design an effective algorithm for assigning task computation to cores. This assignment more than triples effective system utilization, and when implementation overheads are considered, FJOS maintains high system utilizations, thus providing a strong foundation for predictable, real-time intra-task parallelism.
Ethanol potentiates the GABAA-activated Cl− current in mouse hippocampal and cortical neurons

The effects of ethanol (1-80 mM) on GABA-activated Cl- current (IGABA) were studied in cultured mammalian hippocampal and cortical neurons. Patch-clamp recordings revealed that ethanol potentiated the Cl- current in a concentration-dependent manner (1-40 mM) in the majority of the cells studied. No higher degree of potentiation was found by increasing the concentration of ethanol to 80 mM. This study demonstrates that ethanol can potentiate IGABA in mammalian central neurons.
Output Flexibility-A Competitive Advantage for Small Firms

We explore three theoretical perspectives that look at output flexibility as a competitive advantage for small firms as was initially described by Stigler (1939). First, small firms are more willing to fluctuate their output. As a result: second, small firms can trade cost inefficiency with volume flexibility to increase their profits; third, output flexibility is a more viable source of competitive advantage in volatile and capital-intensive industries, and less viable in profitable industries. Indeed, the empirical analysis of over 3000 companies representing 83 industries during the 1979-87 time period supports our theoretical perspectives. Future research directions that combine firm flexibility and other strategic dimensions are discussed in the context of providing a general strategic framework for small firms competing against large ones.
Comparative Effectiveness of Two Penicillin Treatment Schedules in Pneumococcal Infections of Mice

SummaryThe therapeutic effects of penicillin injected every 12 hours into mice infected with pneumococci were compared with the effects of similar daily doses divided into 8 injections at intervals of 3 hours.With both treatment schedules the 100% curative daily dose and the PD50 daily dose were found to be similar.The significance of these findings is discussed.
Drug delivery of zinc to Barrett's metaplasia by oral administration to Barrett's esophagus patients.

Background: Delivery of a pharmacologically effective drug dosage to a target tissue is critical. Barrett’s epithelia are a unique challenge for drug delivery of orally administered zinc due to rapid transit down the esophageal lumen, incomplete absorptive differentiation of these epithelia, and the use of proton-pump inhibitor drugs abrogating intestinal uptake of supplemental zinc. Methods: Barrett’s esophagus patients were administered oral zinc gluconate (26 mg zinc twice daily) for 14 days prior to biopsy procurement. Barrett’s biopsies were analyzed for total zinc content by atomic absorption spectroscopy and by western immunoblot for cellular proteins known to be regulated by zinc. Results: Cellular levels of both the Znt-1 transport protein and the alpha isoform of PKC were over 50% lower in the zinc treatment group. Conclusion: Oral zinc administration can result in effective delivery of zinc to Barrett’s epithelia with resulting effects on intracellular signal transduction.
High risk congenital heart surgery and mechanical circulatory support as an alternative to heart transplantation in patients with end-stage adult congenital heart disease

Abstract The decreased trend in mortality after congenital heart surgery has resulted in a growing population of adults with congenital heart disease. Admissions for all types of adults with congenital heart disease have increased especially those in heart failure and in particular those with a failing Fontan circulation. These patients are the fastest growing cohort of heart failure patients currently presenting to congenital heart centers. Treatment options for these patients include Fontan conversion, ventricular assist devices, heart transplantation, and/or total artificial heart implantation. The use of virtual surgery software has improved our ability to offer a variety of mechanical devices to small adults with congenital heart disease and those with complex congenital anatomy for whom in the past certain devices were thought not to be an option. As device technology improves, we hopefully will be able to address this wave of young and middle aged adults with congenital heart disease and heart failure.
Requirements and principles for the implementation and construction of large-scale geographic information systems

This paper provides a brief survey of the history, structure and functions of 'traditional' geographic information systems (GIS), and then suggests a set of requirements that large-scale GIS should satisfy, together with a set of principles for their satisfaction. These principles, which include the systematic application of techniques from several subfields of computer science to the design and implementation of GIS and the integration of techniques from computer vision and image processing into standard GIS technology, are discussed in some detail. In particular, the paper provides a detailed discussion of questions relating to appropriate data models, data structures and computational procedures for the efficient storage, retrieval and analysis of spatially-indexed data.
“Pluto Has Been a Planet My Whole Life!” Emotions, Attitudes, and Conceptual Change in Elementary Students’ Learning about Pluto’s Reclassification

Learning about certain scientific topics has potential to spark strong emotions among students. We investigated whether emotions predicted students’ attitudes after engaging in independent rereading and/or rereading plus discussion about Pluto’s reclassification. Fifth and sixth grade students read a refutation text on Pluto’s reclassification. Participants were randomly assigned to either the reread independently or the reread plus discussion group. Results showed that students in both groups experienced attitude change and that change was sustained over time. Students reported experiencing more negative than positive emotions at pretest. Emotions, which became more positive after intervention, were predictive of students’ attitudes and attitude change. Implications for the role of emotions when learning about controversial topics are discussed.
Three High Threshold Calcium Channel Subtypes in Rat Corticotropes

In this study on highly enriched populations of cultured rat corticotropes, Ca ‘+ channel inhibitors were used to identify subtypes of the high threshold Ca”’ channel current under voltage clamp conditions. From a holding potential (-50 mV) that eliminated the low threshold T-type current, 52 2 4% of the total current in 10 mM Ba” ’ was mediated by dihydropyridine-sensitive L-type Ca” channels. Blockade of this current was half-maximal at a nifedipine concentration of 187 nM. w-Agatoxin-IVA (20 nM) maximally inhibited 28 t 3% of the total current. This high sensitivity to o-agatoxin-IVA indicates that this noninactivating current is mediated by P-type Ca”+ channels. A very high threshold, noninactivating current (23 ? 4% of the total BaZ ’ current) remained after maximal inhibition of L- and P-type Ca” + channels. This current was also resistant to toxins that inhibit N (o-conotoxin-GVIAJ- and Q (w-conotoxin-MVIICJ-type Ca” channels. Because this current had slow activation kinetics and voltage dependence very different from those ofthe L- and P-type currents in these cells, it was probably mediated by a third unclassified Ca”+ channel subtype (or subtypes). It is concluded that the high threshold current in corticotropes is due to the presence of at least three different Ca” ’ channel subtypes. (Endocrinology 136: 3916-3924,1995)
Effect of probe configuration on radiative heating during Jovian entry

The radiative heating to the probe's surface and the effects of the recession of the heat shield caused by this heating are analyzed for five initial probe configurations for a Jovian entry. The initial configurations are spherically capped, conical bodies and hyperboloids. The results show that severe blunting of the nose region occurs for all configurations due to ablation of the heat shield caused by the large radiative heating rates. Recession at the nose region can possibly cause a concavity at the stagnation point. Furthermore, the recession of the heat shield, especially for the spherically capped, conical bodies, will be underpredicted if the change in the probe's shape during the entry is neglected in an analysis.
The radiation-hydrodynamic ICF3D code

Abstract We describe the 3D high temperature plasma simulation computer code ICF3D which is being developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The code is portable; it runs on a variety of platforms: uniprocessors, SMPs, and MPPs. It parallelizes by decomposing physical space into disjoint subdomains and relies on message passing libraries such as MPI. ICF3D is written in the object oriented programming language C++. The mesh is unstructured and consists of a collection of hexahedra, prisms, pyramids, and/or tetrahedra. The hydrodynamics is modeled by the discontinuous finite element method which allows a natural representation of inherently discontinuous phenomena such as shocks. Continuous processes such as diffusion are modeled by conventional finite element methods. ICF3D is modular and consists of separate equation-of-state, hydrodynamic, heat conduction, and multi-group radiation transport (diffusion approximation) packages. We present results on problems relevant to Inertial Confinement Fusion which are obtained on a variety of computers, uniprocessors and MPPs.
Central adiposity and other anthropometric factors in relation to risk of macrosomia in an African American population.

Objective: Previous studies have consistently identified maternal obesity and gestational weight gain (GWG) as risk factors for macrosomia, but little is known about the effects of central adiposity and body fat distribution. Using self-reported data from the Black Women's Health Study (BWHS), a large follow-up study of US black women, we examined the risk of macrosomia in relation to prepregnancy waist circumference, prepregnancy waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), prepregnancy BMI, and GWG. Design and Methods: During 1995–2003, BWHS participants ages 21–44 years delivered 6,687 full-term singleton births (gestational age >37 weeks). We compared mothers of 691 infants weighing ≥4,000 g with mothers of 5,996 infants weighing <4,000 g. Generalized estimating equation models (GEE) that accounted for more than one birth per mother were used to estimate multivariable odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Independent of prepregnancy BMI, prepregnancy waist circumference was positively associated with risk of macrosomia (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.07–2.32, for ≥35.0 vs. <27.0 inches (≥88.9 vs. <68.6 cm); P trend = 0.04). As expected, prepregnancy BMI was also positively associated with macrosomia (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.25–2.41 for BMI ≥35.0 vs. 18.5–24.9 kg m−2). GWG above the amount recommended by the 2009 Institute of Medicine report was associated with an increased risk of macrosomia and the association was present in each category of prepregnancy BMI (18.5–24.9, 25.0–29.9, and ≥30.0 kg m−2; P trend <0.001). Conclusions: Our data suggest that overall obesity, high GWG, and high waist circumference are independent risk factors for macrosomia among US black women.
State-of-the-Art Surgical Approaches to the Treatment of Medically Refractory Ulcerative Colitis

Management of medically refractory ulcerative collitis (UC) is a significant challenge to the surgeon. Operative morbidity is high and the potential for mortality remains. Medical therapies have the potential to meaningfully improve the patient, or may dangerously delay and complicate surgery. Operative planning must appropriately address the patient’s acuity without losing sight of the patient’s long-term need for definitive surgical care and adequate functional outcome. State-of-the-art treatment hinges on prompt recognition of patients with acute severe UC, multidisciplinary coordination of medical therapy, and mature surgical judgment. Biologic therapies and minimally invasive surgical technologies represent the vanguard in UC. However, state-of-the-art treatment of acute severe UC is not employment of the newest drug or technology, but early performance of standard of care surgery, ileal pouch anal anastomosis, for every eligible patient. As the range of therapies available for UC continues to expand, the challenge for the surgeon is incorporating these new drugs and devices without losing sight of the standard of care.
Adaptation of the membrane lipids of a deep-sea bacterium to changes in hydrostatic pressure

The fatty acid composition of the cell membrane of the barophilic marine bacterium CNPT3 was found to vary as a function of pressure. Greater amounts of unsaturated fatty acids were present in bacteria growing at higher pressures. The results suggest adaptations in the membrane lipids to environmentally relevant pressures. This response to pressure appears to be analogous to temperature-induced membrane adaptations observed in other organisms.
State of evaluation: community health workers

Disparity groups, especially racial and ethnic minority groups, are at greater risk for poor health yet experience numerous obstacles in accessing health care. Community health workers (CHWs) are indigenous, trusted, and respected members of the underserved community. They can serve as a bridge between peers and health professionals. Use of CHWs has fluctuated since the federal government first endorsed their use for expanded health access to the underserved in the 1960s. National demands to eliminate health disparities and recent socioeconomic pressures have focused attention on use of CHWs to improve community health. Still, underutilization exists due to, in part, a lack of understanding of the CHW concept and a dearth of evaluation literature on CHWs. This article describes the CHW concept, provides a summary of CHW evaluation literature, and suggests quality care indicators to strengthen evaluation. The review of evaluation research relating to CHWs provides a preliminary state of the science for nurses to begin building an evidence-based practice. Quality of care indicators pertinent to CHW are summarized from the existing evaluation literature. The three best practice domains (therapeutic alliance, risk reduction and health care utilization) are proposed along with suggestions for using quality indicators to improve evaluation. A reduction in health disparities can occur with enhanced CHW utilization.
A Heat Transfer Analysis for Passively Cooled “Trumpet” Secondary Concentrators

Some practical questions associated with the use of hyperboloidal “trumpet” shaped terminal concentrators for use in solar thermal applications are addressed. Computer ray-trace calculations show that the flux distribution is strongly peaked over a small neck area at the exit of the trumpet, which will be subjected to a substantial thermal load. A quasi-transient heat transfer model has been developed to analyze the thermal behavior of passively cooled trumpets. The thermal analysis shows that simple techniques exist such that one can design passive secondary trumpets which will remain below safe temperature limits under normal operation for many applications. The wall thickness and its variation along the body of the bell-shaped shell from the exit are found to play an important role in controlling the temperature at all flux levels. As a check on the validity of the model, a set of electrical simulation experiments was conducted and excellent agreement was found.
Thermodynamic Consistency of Critical Field and Specific Heat Data for Superconducting Sn and In

The accuracy with which data satisfy the thermodynamic relations between the magnetic and calorimetric properties of a superconductor is considered. A procedure for calculating the ertropy and speciflc heat differences from critlcal field data is described. The results are compared with corresponding quantities derived from calorimetric measurements. Agreement is good over most of the temperature range of the observations. Critical field measurements are capable of yielding the changes in the thermodynamrc properties at the transition with an accuracy at least equal to that achieved in calorlmetric work. (auth)
The effect of phorbol esters on tumor cell sensitivity to macrophage-mediated cytostasis

Abstract Macrophage-mediated cytostasis was measured in a mouse syngeneic system where EL4 thymoma cells were found to be inhibited by C57B1/6 mouse macrophages. When tumor cells were pretreated with TPA, they became resistant to macrophage-mediated stasis. Nonelutriated as well as elutriated cells enriched in G1/early S and late S were sensitive to macrophage-mediated stasis. However, when elutriated cells were treated with TPA, cells enriched in G1/early S were rendered resistant to the cytostatic activity of macrophages whereas cells enriched in late S were not. The TPA effect on tumor cell susceptibility to stasis was found to be reversible and a nontumor-promoting phorbol ester, α-PDD, was ineffective.
What we have learned about early learning

SUMMARY In this paper the author explores how our ideas about early learning have developed over time and proposes a new view of pedagogy, that is not based on the traditional Model of Deprivation, but outlines a new model which goes beyond deprivation. The new model proposes that the child is not deprived of culture, rather the child is deprived of opportunities for creating culture and dealing with culture. In this new perspective the child is not viewed as passive but active. The aim of schools should be to provide an ‘enabling culture’ in which the child is involved in reinventing, refurbishing and refreshing the culture. The paper also identifies and explores 3 antinomies which have emerged as ideas about early learning developed; •the ‘individual realisation’ versus the ‘culture serving’ antinomy •the ‘talent centred’ versus the ‘tool centred’ antinomy •the ‘particularism’ versus the ‘universalism’ antinomy. It is argued that an exploration of these 3 antinomies can provide a useful basis for thinki...
Singularities in the collisions of almost-plane gravitational waves.

It is well known that when gravitational plane waves propagating on an otherwise flat background collide, they produce spacetime singularities. In this paper we consider the problem of whether (or under what conditions) singularities can be produced by the collision of gravitational waves with finite but very large transverse sizes. On the basis of (nonrigorous) order-of-magnitude considerations, we discuss the outcome of the collision in two fundamentally different regimes for the parameters of the colliding waves; these parameters are the transverse sizes (${\mathit{L}}_{\mathit{T}}$${)}_{\mathit{i}}$, typical amplitudes ${\mathit{h}}_{\mathit{i}}$, typical reduced wavelengths \ensuremath{\lambda}${\mathrm{/}}_{\mathit{i}}$\ensuremath{\equiv}${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathit{i}}$/2\ensuremath{\pi}, thickneses ${\mathit{a}}_{\mathit{i}}$, and focal lengths ${\mathit{f}}_{\mathit{i}}$\ensuremath{\sim}\ensuremath{\lambda}${\mathrm{/}}_{\mathit{i}}^{2}$/${\mathit{a}}_{\mathit{i}}$${\mathit{h}}_{\mathit{i}}^{2}$ (i=1,2) of the waves 1 and 2.
Observation of dipolar spin-exchange interactions with lattice-confined polar molecules

In a step towards developing a system in which to study quantum magnetism, the long-range dipolar interactions of polar molecules pinned in a three-dimensional optical lattice are used to realize a lattice spin model. The long-range dipolar interactions between polar molecules in ultracold molecular gases allow the spin dynamics to be fully decoupled from motion of the molecules — an attractive feature for the realization of lattice spin models for exploring quantum magnetism. Measured effects of such dipolar interactions have so far been limited to the modification of inelastic collisions and chemical reactions. Here the authors use dipolar interactions of polar molecules pinned in a three-dimensional optical lattice to realize a lattice spin model. The results open the possibility of realizing a wide range of spin models with long-range interaction, and lay the groundwork for future studies of many-body dynamics in spin lattices. With the production of polar molecules in the quantum regime1,2, long-range dipolar interactions are expected to facilitate understanding of strongly interacting many-body quantum systems and to realize lattice spin models3 for exploring quantum magnetism. In ordinary atomic systems, where contact interactions require wavefunction overlap, effective spin interactions on a lattice can be mediated by tunnelling, through a process referred to as superexchange; however, the coupling is relatively weak and is limited to nearest-neighbour interactions4,5. In contrast, dipolar interactions exist even in the absence of tunnelling and extend beyond nearest neighbours. This allows coherent spin dynamics to persist even for gases with relatively high entropy and low lattice filling. Measured effects of dipolar interactions in ultracold molecular gases have been limited to the modification of inelastic collisions and chemical reactions6,7. Here we use dipolar interactions of polar molecules pinned in a three-dimensional optical lattice to realize a lattice spin model. Spin is encoded in rotational states of molecules that are prepared and probed by microwaves. Resonant exchange of rotational angular momentum between two molecules realizes a spin-exchange interaction. The dipolar interactions are apparent in the evolution of the spin coherence, which shows oscillations in addition to an overall decay of the coherence. The frequency of these oscillations, the strong dependence of the spin coherence time on the lattice filling factor and the effect of a multipulse sequence designed to reverse dynamics due to two-body exchange interactions all provide evidence of dipolar interactions. Furthermore, we demonstrate the suppression of loss in weak lattices due to a continuous quantum Zeno mechanism8. Measurements of these tunnelling-induced losses allow us to determine the lattice filling factor independently. Our work constitutes an initial exploration of the behaviour of many-body spin models with direct, long-range spin interactions and lays the groundwork for future studies of many-body dynamics in spin lattices.
Symplectic-mixed finite element approximation of linear acoustic wave equations

We apply mixed finite element approximations to the first-order form of the acoustic wave equation. The semidiscrete method exactly conserves the system energy. A fully discrete method employing the symplectic Euler time method in time exactly conserves a positive-definite pertubed energy functional that is equivalent to the actual energy under a CFL condition. In addition to proving optimal-order $$L^\infty (L^2)$$L?(L2) estimates, we also develop a bootstrap technique that allows us to derive stability and error bounds for the time derivatives and divergence of the vector variable beyond the standard under some additional regularity assumptions.
Visualization and registration of three-dimensional E-field distributions in annual-phased-array applicators.

A testing system is presented allowing registration, digitization, and evaluation of three-dimensional power distributions rendered by annular-phased-array applicators in homogeneous liquid media. The system is based on a lamp phantom originally developed to visualize power distributions. Now the brightness distribution is registered via a charge-coupled devicecamera and transferred to a PC-based evaluation system outside the shielding room. An appropriate mechanical coupling of camera and sensor matrix probing the phantom was built in order to keep optical image conditions constant under movement. For visualization and evaluation commercially customized software was employed. The evaluation of the system shows the linearity between sensor signal and power density magnitude to be sufficient for evaluation and graphical representation of three-dimensional data sets. In a first practical application the testing system was employed to evaluate dependencies of power distributions as a function of frequency and phase settings on temperatures and, subsequently, the relevance of those results for clinical hyperthermia in a SIGMA-60 applicator (BSD-2000 system). Now, the system is ready to evaluate more complex multiantenna array applicators like the SIGMA-Eye applicator. The measuring system is particularly suitable for a fast comparison of APA applicators applied for a homogeneous medium. Implications for heterogeneous structures (like in patients) are then possible via modeling calculations.
Physical volcanology of the 2,050 bp caldera-forming eruption of Okmok volcano, Alaska

In the Aleutian volcanic chain (USA), the 2,050±50 bp collapse of Okmok caldera generated pyroclasts that spread over 1,000 km2 on Umnak Island. After expelling up to 0.25 km3 DRE of rhyodacitic Plinian air fall and 0.35 km3 DRE of andesitic phreatomagmatic tephra, the caldera collapsed and produced the 29 km3 DRE Okmok II scoria deposit, which is composed of valley-ponding, poorly sorted, massive facies and over-bank, stratified facies with planar and cross bedding. Geological and sedimentological data suggest that a single density current produced the Okmok II deposits by segregating into a highly concentrated base and an overriding dilute cloud. The dense base deposited massive facies, whereas the dilute cloud sedimented preferentially on hills as stratified deposits. The pyroclastic current spread around Okmok in an axisymmetric fashion, encountering topographic barriers on the southwest, reaching Unalaska Island across an 8-km strait on the east, and reaching the shoreline of Umnak in the other directions. A kinematic model (Burgisser and Bergantz, Earth Planet Sci Lett 202:405–418, 2002) was used to show how decoupling of the pyroclastic current was triggered by both sea entrance and interaction with the topography. In the former case, the dense part of the current and the lithics transported by the dilute cloud went underwater. In the latter case, topographical barriers noticeably decelerated both parts of the decoupled current and favored sedimentation by partial or complete blocking. The resulting unloading of the dilute current drastically reduced the runout distance by triggering an early buoyant lift-off.
Serum alanine aminotransferase in skeletal muscle diseases

Although elevation of the levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) following liver injury is well known, confusion exists concerning skeletal muscle injury as the cause of this rise. We reviewed the records of 16 patients who had muscle necrosis without evidence of liver disease. The patients were divided into three groups: extreme exercise, polymyositis, and seizures. All patients exhibited markedly elevated creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels consistent with muscle injury. In acute cases, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and ALT were both elevated, and the AST/ALT ratio was greater than 3, but this ratio approached 1 after a few days because of a faster decline in AST. In conclusion, this difference in half-life accounts for the comparable AST and ALT levels in our cases with chronic muscle injury.
Non-occurrence of lotusin in Lotus arabicus L.

IN 1901 Dunstan and Henry1 reported the occurrence of lotusin, the maltose cyanohydrin ether of lotoflavin (quercetin2), in air-dried samples of Lotus arabicus L. collected in Egypt. Nearly forty years later, Henry3 isolated lotaustralin (α-hydroxy-α-methyl-butyronitrile-β-D-glucose) from the same species.
Melan-A as a useful diagnostic immunohistochemical stain for the diagnosis of primary sinonasal melanomas.

Background Sinonasal melanomas are rare neoplasms whose diagnosis may require confirmatory immunohistochemical stains. S-100 protein and HMB-45, the stains most commonly used, have varying sensitivities and specificities. Melan-A, a more recent melanoma-specific marker, may prove helpful when S-100 protein and HMB-45 stains are negative or equivocal. Methods Seven cases of sinonasal melanoma were assessed for reactivity with Melan-A, S-100 protein and HMB-45. Results The study group consisted of two women and five men ages 40 to 83. Six of the neoplasms were strongly positive for S-100 protein. One case was negative for S-100 protein and HMB-45 but positive for Melan-A. HMB-45 staining varied between diffusely positive (three cases), focally positive (two cases), and negative (two cases). All cases were positive for Melan-A either diffusely (four cases) or focally (three cases). Conclusion Because Melan-A can be positive in cases that are S-100 protein or HMB-45 negative, it is a useful component in the immunohistochemical panel for the diagnosis of sinonasal melanomas. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 24: 52–55, 2002.