cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Delayed Return of Ejaculatory Function in Adolescent Males Treated With Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection and Adjuvant Therapy for Paratesticular Rhabdomyosarcoma.

Abstract Due to the rarity of the disease, adverse events related to ejaculatory function following the management of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma with multimodal therapy in adolescents are rarely discussed. Two patients, age 14 and 15 at time of diagnosis were treated with multimodal therapy with nerve-sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Each developed ejaculatory dysfunction during the treatment period, which resolved 1 year after completion of all therapies. We sought to assess the role of each component of multimodal therapy on the observed side effect and the potential for delayed recovery of function after cessation of all therapies.
Predicting Inpatient Status After Total Hip Arthroplasty in Medicare-Aged Patients.

Abstract Background The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has solicited comments regarding the removal of total hip arthroplasty (THA) from its inpatient-only list. The goal of this study is to develop and internally validate a risk stratification nomogram to aid in the identification of optimal inpatient candidates in this patient population. Methods The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was utilized to identify all patients >65 years of age who underwent primary THA between 2006 and 2015. Inpatient stay was the primary outcome measure, as defined by stay >2 days in length. The impact of numerous demographic, comorbid, and perioperative variables was assessed through a multivariable logistic regression analysis to construct a predictive nomogram. Results In total, 30,587 inpatient THAs and 17,024 outpatient THAs were analyzed. Heart failure (odds ratio [OR] 2.11, P = .001), simultaneous bilateral THA (OR 2.47, P 80 years (OR 2.91, P Conclusion Our model enabled accurate and simple identification of the best candidates for inpatient admission after THA in Medicare-aged patients. Given the increasing feasibility of outpatient THA coupled with the likelihood of THA being removed from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services inpatient-only list, this model provides a framework to guide discussion and decision-making for stakeholders.
Decision Tree Based Anomaly Detection for Remedial Action Scheme in Smart Grid using PMU Data

The advanced and persistent cyber threats facing the critical infrastructure such as the smart grid are exponentially rising which require sophisticated defense strategy. Remedial Action Scheme (RAS), also known as Special Protection Scheme (SPS), relies on the interconnected cyber physical system for automated protection which is exposed to the multitude of vulnerabilities. In this paper, we propose an innovative approach to develop an Intelligent Remedial Action Scheme (IRAS) which can detect and distinguish cyber attacks from the physical disturbances in smart grid and later take smart corrective actions as required to minimize the impact on system reliability and economy. Specifically, we have proposed the decision tree based anomaly detection methodology which can distinguish between the normal tripping during power line faults and malicious tripping attack on the physical relays in the context of RAS. The classification model is developed using differential features of voltage and current phasors. Next, as a proof of concept, we have implemented and validated the proposed methodology in cyber physical environment at Iowa State’s PowerCyber testbed. Finally, the proposed methodology is tested on modified IEEE 39 bus system in offline and real-time mode. Our experimental results show that the proposed method is efficient in detecting attacks and performing corrective actions within an acceptable time frame.
Isolation and characterization of (Ar)(F)B(OR)2Cs and (PN)CuAr complexes. Involvement of cationic copper(I) species during transmetalation of arylboron reagents with (PN)CuF

Abstract We report the synthesis and characterization of novel anionic arylfluoroborate, three-coordinate ligated arylcopper(I) and cationic ligated copper(I) complexes. We show through in situ 19F NMR monitoring that neutral arylboronate ester is more kinetically competent than anionic arylfluoroborate for transmetalation with (PN)CuF (PN = o-(di-tert-butylphosphino)-N,N-dimethylaniline). The transmetalation of the neutral arylboronate ester proceeds via a two-step process involving a cationic copper(I) species wherein an anionic arylfluoroborate is generated in situ as a competent aryl group transferring reagent.
An evaluation of non-ionic surfactants on the cytotoxicity and activity of poly(butyl acrylate/styrene) nanoparticle emulsions

Previous investigations in our laboratory have centered on polyacrylate nanoparticle aqueous emulsions and their application to antibacterial studies. It is found that residual in vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity associated with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), the surfactant used in the preparation, could not be completely avoided by purification. This paper summarizes our more recent findings on the use of non-ionic surfactants for preparing poly(butyl acrylate-styrene) nanoparticles in water and their effects on in vitro cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity. The best surfactants we found were Brij 30, Brij 56, and sorbitan monopalmitate. The optimum concentration of each surfactant was 3 wt%, although larger amounts can be used to form stable aqueous nanoparticle emulsions with very high zeta potential values (up to − 100 mV). These particular nanoparticle emulsions showed neither in vitro cytotoxicity nor any antibacterial activity against S. aureus or MRSA, up to at least 256 μg/ml. Dynamic light scattering experiments indicate that the average diameter of the nanoparticles is approximately 8 to 10× larger than those prepared using only SDS as the emulsifying surfactant. Co-mixing the three non-ionic surfactants with 1–3 wt% SDS provided for much smaller nanoparticles (40–75 nm, depending on the amount of SDS) while retaining excellent stability and homogeneity. Incorporation of N-methylthio β-lactam 1 into the nanoparticle matrix enabled antimicrobial growth inhibition against S. aureus and MRSA, due to the antibacterial agent rather than to the surfactant or the nanoparticle matrix.
Floor Map Images and Accessibility: Providing Equivalent Information with the User in Mind

AbstractThis case study describes the process of making library floor maps accessible in multiple formats for all users. Towson University applied universal design best practices and Web Content Ac...
Fully softened shear strength measurement and correlations

The fully softened strength (FSS) is usually the controlling shear strength for cut slopes in stiff-fissured fine-grained soils, shales, and claystones, engineered fill slopes, and compacted embankments with no prior slope movement. The FSS is used to model the shear strength of shallow slope soils because it represents the shear strength remaining after the effects of overconsolidation, compaction, desiccation, or other strengthening processes have been removed because of wet–dry cycles, applied shear stresses, stress relief, progressive deformation or failure, swelling, freeze–thaw cycles, weathering, or all of these. An empirical correlation is frequently desired for such slopes because the slopes can be long, such as a levee system, and the borrow material is not completely defined, which makes comprehensive testing difficult. This article presents the mode of shear for the FSS condition, a comparison of existing FSS correlations, power function coefficients to estimate the FSS envelope, and recommendations for modeling the stress-dependent FSS envelope in stability analyses.
Quantifying the Relationship Between Projects, Assignments and Grade in Computer Science I

Research Category/Full paper) – We analyzed the data collected in a Computer Science I course to quantify the relationship between programming projects, code-tracing assignments and course grade when online tests and closed lab instruction were used in the course. We found that completion of programming projects was positively and moderately correlated with course grade; each completed project contributed nearly one sign grade to the course grade; the grade of students who had completed at least a given number of projects was four sign grades better than of those who had not and the difference was statistically significant; the mean course grade ranged from F for those who had completed 1 or fewer projects to A- for those who had completed 9 or more projects; and completion of later projects was indicative of higher grade in the course. Similarly, completion of code-tracing assignments was positively, but weakly correlated with course grade; the grade of students who had completed at least a given number of assignments was one letter grade better than of those who had not, and the difference was statistically significant; and the mean course grade ranged from C- for those who had completed 6 or fewer assignments to B+ for those who had completed 11 or more assignments. Concurrence among the course objectives, classroom instruction, assessment techniques, programming projects and assignments may be a pre-requisite for obtaining the results of this study. (Abstract)
Genomic characteristics of echovirus 6 strains isolated from Henan province

2008年7-9月河南省多个地区出现以儿童为主的中枢神经系统感染性疾病暴发,证实为肠道病毒Echo6型感染[1].本研究筛选2株脑脊液分离株进行全基因组序列测定.1.材料与方法:(1)标本及毒株:2008年河南省开封市、洛阳市各1例病毒性脑炎患儿的脑脊液标本,经人横纹肌肉瘤细胞分离得到病毒,并经肠道病毒VP1区通用引物扩增,测序后鉴定为Echo6病毒,分别命名为Echo6/Henan/116/2008和Echo6/Henan/127/2008. 关键词：埃可病毒;全基因;序列分析
Does Best Value Procurement Cost More than Low-Bid? A Total Project Cost Perspective

Although construction owners have long utilized Best-Value (BV) procurement within alternative delivery, they have historically been less willing to do so when selecting contractor teams in traditi...
Preliminary Analysis on the Recruitment Process for Domestic Violent Extremist Groups

The rise of social media has coincided with the emergence of numerous domestic violent extremist groups with alt-right political ideologies in the United States and Europe. The current study analyzes patterns of communication in the Iron March dataset. Social network analysis was used to determine the most tightly connected users, and graph clustering shows the interactions between these influential users and other members of the forum. Our analysis shows a level of organization within the forum, and an adversarial approach to recruitment of new members, which was used to prevent infiltration by law enforcement and maintain the anonymity of participants. Users who completed the requirements for recruitment were permitted into other, more private, communication channels.
A New Decade for Diversity: Trends in Representation of Women at the Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons.

BACKGROUND In 2018, the Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons first Women in Plastic Surgery was established, reflecting the national trend to address the gender gap between men and women in surgery. Conferences, such as the annual NESPS, are important opportunities to increase visibility of female role models and resources to address deterrents to surgical careers. We thus sought to examine the participation and visibility of women in the NESPS over the last decade. METHODS Abstracts and programs from the NESPS regional conferences between 2013 and 2019 were accessed via the publicly available past meetings archives, and registration lists were provided by the NESPS. Registrants, panelists, speakers, moderators, and first author and senior author listed for each poster presentation, podium presentation was listed, sex was determined (male or female), and sex were aggregated by category of participation. Significance was set at a P value of less than 0.05. RESULTS Registration of women for the NESPS annual conferences was constant for 5 years (2013-2017), followed by an increase in female registrants from 27.1% in 2017 to 42.3% in 2019. Female representation among poster and podium presentations also increased from 2017 to 2019 (7.7%-23.3% poster presentations and 11.1%-23.4% podium presentations). Invited positions (speakers, panelists, and moderators) had a peak of 32.2% in 2017, but otherwise, there is no clear evidence of improved representation of women. CONCLUSIONS We found an increase in the proportion of female registrants at the annual NESPS conferences from 2013 to 2019. However, visibility of female participants fluctuated over the same period; addressing this represents one opportunity for closing the gender gap at the NESPS. As the percentage of female trainees continues to rise, we look to female faculty to continue to participate in educational events, such as the NESPS meeting, and to be present as role models for the growing new generation of female plastic surgeons.
Improving Time Series Classification Algorithms Using Octave-Convolutional Layers.

Deep learning models utilizing convolution layers have achieved state-of-the-art performance on univariate time series classification tasks. In this work, we propose improving CNN based time series classifiers by utilizing Octave Convolutions (OctConv) to outperform themselves. These network architectures include Fully Convolutional Networks (FCN), Residual Neural Networks (ResNets), LSTM-Fully Convolutional Networks (LSTM-FCN), and Attention LSTM-Fully Convolutional Networks (ALSTM-FCN). The proposed layers significantly improve each of these models with minimally increased network parameters. In this paper, we experimentally show that by substituting convolutions with OctConv, we significantly improve accuracy for time series classification tasks for most of the benchmark datasets. In addition, the updated ALSTM-OctFCN performs statistically the same as the top two time series classifers, TS-CHIEF and HIVE-COTE (both ensemble models). To further explore the impact of the OctConv layers, we perform ablation tests of the augmented model compared to their base model.
Thermal Enhancement Cartridge Heater Modified (Tech Mod) Tritium Hydride Bed Development Part I – Design and Fabrication

The Savannah River Site (SRS) tritium facilities have used 1st generation (Gen1) LaNi4.25Al0.75 (LANA0.75) metal hydride storage beds for tritium absorption, storage, and desorption. The Gen1 desig...
Strong Structural Controllability of Networked Dynamics

This chapter examines strong structural controllability of linear-time-invariant networked systems. We provide necessary and sufficient conditions for strong structural controllability involving constrained matchings over the bipartite graph representation of the network. An \(\mathcal{O}(n^{2})\) algorithm to validate if a set of inputs leads to a strongly structurally controllable network and to find such an input set is proposed. The problem of finding such a set with minimal cardinality is shown to be NP-complete. Minimal cardinality results for strong and weak structural controllability are compared.
A Review of Instruments on Cognitive Appraisal of Stress.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a review of theoretically based measures of cognitive appraisal, and discuss psychometric strengths and limitations. Background Understanding how an individual appraises stressful events becomes important when faced with alterations in mental health. Cognitive appraisals influence how an individual copes with stressful events and life crises that leads to changes in mental health. Measures on how an individual appraises a stressful event lack conceptual soundness and are limited by weak psychometric properties. Data sources Health and Psychosocial Instruments (HAPI) electronic database was searched using combinations of the key words cognitive appraisal, primary appraisal, secondary appraisal, appraisal of illness, appraisal of health, and stress appraisal. The quality of these instrument sources was assessed by published psychometric data in the primary source. Results Five instruments were found that measure cognitive appraisal as theoretically described: the Meaning of Illness Questionnaire, the Stress Appraisal Measure, the Appraisal of Illness Scale, the Cognitive Appraisal of Health Scale, and the Primary Appraisal/Secondary Appraisal scale. A description of each tool, including purpose, scoring, and psychometric support, is provided. Conclusion There are a limited number of instruments that measure cognitive appraisal as theoretically described. Theoretically sound instruments with established psychometric support are needed to make accurate inferences about the role of cognitive appraisal in the mental and physical health of individuals experiencing stress.
Steroidogenesis and testosterone metabolism in cultured principal cells from the ram epididymis.

To determine if ram principal cells can synthesize or metabolize testosterone, or metabolize other steroids present in rete testis fluid, principal cells from the initial segment, central caput, and proximal corpus epididymidis were isolated and cultured in a floating collagen matrix with medium containing 20% dialyzed rete testis fluid. In the first experiment, each matrix was washed twice in testosterone-free medium on day 2.8, transferred into culture medium containing 100 nM of a tritiated steroid and incubated for 4 hours at 34 C. The tritiated steroids were pregnenolone, 5-androstene-3β,17β-diol, progesterone, 4-androstene-3,17-dione, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone. Since testosterone was not formed from 5-androstene-3β,17β-diol or 4-androstene-3,17-dione, testosterone synthesis by ram principal cells is unlikely. Pregnenolone and 5-androstene-3β,17β-diol were not metabolized and only slight metabolism of dihydrotestosterone occurred. Progesterone, 4-androstene-3,17-dione, and testosterone were metabolized to 5α-reduced products tentatively identified as 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione and 5α-pregnan-3β-ol-20-one and/or 5α-pregnan-20α-ol-3-one; 5α-androstane-3,17-dione and 5α-androstan-3α-ol-17-one, and dihydrotestosterone, respectively. The second experiment evaluated testosterone metabolism by both cultured principal cells and minced epididymal tissue. On day 1 of culture, during 12 hours the accumulation of dihydrotestosterone in medium from cells of the central caput was 48 × and 1.1 × that in medium from cells of the initial segment and proximal corpus epididymidis. The difference (P > 0.01) persisted on days 3 and 6 of culture, although testosterone metabolism decreased. For 3-hour incubations of minced tissue, testosterone metabolism by tissue from the central caput was 3.6 ×, 1.3 x, and 0.9 × that of tissues from the initial segment, distal caput, and proximal corpus, respectively. Thus, testosterone metabolism in the initial segment is low compared with more distal regions.
HUMAN FACTORS IN HIGHWAY-TRANSPORT SAFETY

ACCIDENTS ARE ANALYZED FROM THE STANDPOINT OF HUMAN FACTORS AND ACCIDENT PRONENESS. MANY VARIABLES ARE RECOGNIZED THAT CONTRIBUTE TO MOTOR TRANSPORT ACCIDENTS. IMPROVEMENT CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH INCREASED VIGILANCE AND RESEARCH WITH REGARD TO THE DESIGN OF EQUIPMENT, THE SELECTION AND TRAINING OF PERSONNEL AND SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES. IT IS CONCLUDED THAT THE PREVENTION OF ACCIDENTS REQUIRES TEAMWORK OF (1) RESEARCH SPECIALISTS, (2) OPERATORS WHO ARE CONCERNED WITH ROUTINE SCHEDULING AND MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT, AND (3) THE MANAGEMENT GROUPS INTERESTED IN MAKING AN OPERATING PROFIT.
Whose quality of life? A commentary exploring discrepancies between health state evaluations of patients and the general public

There is often a discrepancy between quality of life estimates from patients and the general public. These discrepancies are of concern to the disability community, who worry that the public does not understand how valuable life can be for people with disabilities; policy planners, who must decide whose quality of life estimates to use in economic analysis; and practitioners and patients facing difficult medical decisions, who may have to worry that people have difficulty imagining unfamiliar health states. We outline several factors that may contribute to these discrepancies. Discrepancies might occur because patients and the public interpret health state descriptions differently – for example, making different assumptions about the recency of onset of the health state, or about the presence of comorbidities. Discrepancies might also arise if patients adapt to illness and the public does not predict this adaptation; because of response shift in how people use quality of life scales; because of a focusing illusion whereby people forget to consider obvious aspects of unfamiliar health states; because of contrast effects, whereby negative life events make people less bothered by less severe negative life events; and because of different vantage points, with patients viewing their illness in terms of the benefits that would result from regaining health, while the public views the illness in terms of the costs associated with losing good health. Decisions about whose values to measure for the purposes of economic analyses, and how to measure discrepancies, should take these potential contributing factors into account.
Psychological Reports: A Guide to Report Writing in Professional Psychology

Research on Reports. The Implicit Contract Between Reader and Writer. The Expository Process Model. Reporting Models and Linguistic Styles. The Report in Context. Organization and Content of the Report. Special Problems in the Specialties. Existing Research and Future Needs. Appendices. Glossary. References. Index.
¿República de voces o una voz de la República? Dialogismo y discurso socialista en La velada en Benicarló de Manuel Azaña

AbstractDesplazado indefinidamente a Barcelona por motivos de seguridad, entre finales de 1936 y mediados de 1937 Manuel Azana toma parte en una serie de entrevistas en el municipio castellonense de Benicarlo. Los encuentros que, en calidad de Presidente de la Republica, mantiene con hombres como Francisco Largo Caballero, Diego Martinez Barrio, y Lluis Companys le sirven de inspiracion para escribir un texto unanimemente considerado su testamento politico: La velada en Benicarlo. Escrita en forma de dialogo dramatico, esta obra presenta a un grupo de personajes de condicion e ideologia distintas intercambiando impresiones sobre el decurso de la Guerra Civil en una suerte de ejercicio de representatividad del espectro politico del momento. La critica ha celebrado este proposito y ha entendido el texto como un compendio de voces de la Segunda Republica a traves del cual Azana seria capaz de trascender su yo personal. Por el contrario, el presente articulo propone que la representatividad de la obra resulta...
Carbon cycle: Hoard of fjord carbon

Fjords account for less than 0.1% of the surface of Earth's oceans. A global assessment finds that organic carbon is buried in fjords five times faster than other marine systems, accounting for 11% of global marine organic carbon burial.
Fatigue performance of biodegradable magnesium–calcium alloy processed by laser shock peening for orthopedic implants

Abstract Permanent orthopedic implants made from titanium, stainless steel, or cobalt–chromium alloys cause stress shielding and lead to secondary surgery. Biodegradable magnesium–calcium (MgCa) alloys have the potential to minimize stress shielding as well as eliminate the need for secondary surgery. The critical technical challenge is that magnesium degrades rapidly in the human body. In order to slow the corrosion rate, surface treatments such as laser shock peening (LSP), shot peening, or burnishing have been reported in literature. Each of these surface treatments uniquely alters the surface integrity and consequent fatigue life. Even though surface treatments may be effective at slowing corrosion rates, it is important to ensure that they do not shorten fatigue life. The purpose of this study was to (1) develop a laser shock peening (LSP) surface treatment of a curved surface that adjusts the surface integrity of a MgCa alloy by varying the peening overlap ratio and (2) determine the effect of LSP on the fatigue life. Surface integrity was characterized by topography, microstructure, and microhardness. Fatigue life of laser peened and unpeened samples were measured by rotating bending fatigue tests. It was found that LSP increased the fatigue life of the peened MgCa samples. Implementing LSP at high overlap ratios reduced the surface pile-up which resulted in a higher fatigue life. The fractured surfaces of the peened samples exhibited striation patterns which were more pronounced at higher peening overlap ratios.
Short-Acting β-Adrenergic Antagonist Esmolol Given at Reperfusion Improves Survival After Prolonged Ventricular Fibrillation

Background— High catecholamine concentrations are cytotoxic to cardiac myocytes. We hypothesized that myocardial interstitial catecholamine levels are greatly elevated immediately after long-durati...
Clinical Narrative: Better to Light a Single Candle

The following is a clinical narrative that describes one nurse's attempt to motivate a patient who had recently sustained an injury that caused quadriplegia and the practice implications that arose from "silo" thinking between disciplines.
Cryptographic techniques for computers: Substitution methods

Abstract This paper deals with substitution cryptographic techniques which can be used to maintain the confidentiality of computerized information flies. A number of well-known techniques are adopted for computer usage including the Caesar, Bilinear, Homophonic, Vigenere, and Playfair method. An example of each method is discussed and the relative security acquired by each method is discussed.
Theoretical models of narcissism, sexuality, and relationship commitment

The present research examines the link between narcissistic personality and sexuality. Additionally, it explores how sexuality may inform the operation of narcissism within the context of close relationships. Two theoretical models, each addressing one of these issues, were evaluated empirically. Our first proposed model suggests that the agentic nature of narcissism explains why narcissism is linked to less restricted forms of sexual attitudes and behaviors (i.e., unrestricted sociosexuality). Our second proposed model suggests that a consequence of the sexual attitudes and behaviors associated with narcissism is low relationship commitment. Both of these models received empirical support. Discussion centers upon the theoretical implications and limitations of these models.
Reactive Oxygen Species Drives Myocardial Angiogenesis

Neovascularization, the natural physiological process of formation of new blood vessels, is extremely important for ameliorating the function of the heart that undergoes ischemic stress. This process is potentially important for the treatment of ischemic heart and limb diseases, which includes formation of capillaries (angiogenesis) and collateral arteries. Ischemia or coronary artery occlusion induces vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the experimental rat myocardial infarction model, and this molecule encourages development of coronary collateral circulation and retention of the blood supply to the ischemic area. Restoration of the blood supply to the ischemic area prevents cardiomyocyte death and cardiac remodeling. Among the various triggers and enhancers of angiogenesis, hypoxic or ischemic preconditioning, as well as pharmacologic agents such as statin and resveratrol, have been identified as important stimuli for the induction of new vessel growth. It has already been demonstrated that the VEGF family and its receptor system is the fundamental regulator in the redox cell signaling of angiogenesis. This review article will focus on the role of reactive oxygen species in the process of myocardial angiogenesis.
Urinary Incontinence in Children

A child aged 3 years or older with daytime as well as nighttime incontinence deserves a careful evaluation including an IVP, VCUG, possible urodynamic evaluation, and possible endoscopy. Although there are many possible causes for incontinence, an accurate diagnosis can usually be achieved with careful evaluation and structural abnormalities, if any, can then be corrected.
Studies on the effects of intrathalamically injected DADL and morphine on nociceptive thresholds and electroencephalographic activity: A thalamic δ receptor syndrome

Abstract Bilateral microinjections of DADL ( d -Ala 2 - d -Leu 5 -enkephalin) and morphine were carried out in rats in a systematic fashion at histologically identified medial and lateral thalamic sites. DADL produced a dose-dependent (1.5–15.0 nmol), naloxone-reversible (1 mg/kg, i.p.) increase in the hot-plate (HP), tail-flick (TF) and catalepsy (CAT) response latencies with a predominance of activity occurring at lateral as opposed to medial thalamic sites. These effects were seen within 5 min of microinjection. At a significant number of sites, DADL precipitated convulsive seizure activity. Equimolar doses of morphine had a negligible effect on nociceptive indices and were not productive of seizures even at sites where DADL was found to be active. To further examine seizure activity, rats were prepared with bilateral frontal cortical electrodes and microinjected also at medial and lateral thalamic sites with equimolar doses of DADL and morphine (15 nmol). DADL was found to produce electrographically definedseizures unaccompanied by convulsive motor behavior behavior (cataleptic seizures), as well as convulsive seizures. All animals in this group exhibiting analgesia and catalepsy had electrographic evidence of a seizure with markedly abnormal EEG tracings showing postictal spiking and changes in baseline frequency and amplitude. These seizures appeared to be naloxone-reversible. Morphine on the other hand was not productive of seizures, but did produce changes in electroencephalographic activity including spindle bursting, high-voltage slow-frequency activity as well as spiking. As noted, these changes were not associated with any effects on nociceptive measures.
Randomized comparison of laparoscopic and open lymphadenectomy in pigs

Objective: To compare the efficacy of open and laparoscopic lymphadenectomy and validate an objective model of lymph node retrieval using lymphangiography in pigs. Methods: Twenty-five pigs weighing 54–75 lbs were randomly assigned by side to open or laparoscopic pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy. Lymph node yield, quantified by a masked pathologist, operative time, complications, blood loss, and other variables were recorded. Lymphangiography was done, and radiographs were taken before and after lymph node harvesting. Statistical analysis used McNemar test for nominal data and paired Student t test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test for continuous variables. Results: Lymph node yields were a mean of 11.5 with a standard deviation of 2.8 for open and 15.3 ± 3.4 nodes for laparoscopic lymphadenectomy (P = .009). Mean operating time was 26.5 ± 5.3 minutes for open versus 54.9 ± 23.7 minutes for laparoscopy (P < .01). Mean blood loss was higher for laparoscopic cases, 35 mL for open versus 58 mL for laparoscopic lymphadenectomy (P = .048). The four major complications were evenly distributed between the two procedures. Lymphangiography was successful in 24 of 25 pigs. A total of 243 lymph nodes were identified with equal distribution by side. Lymphangiographic data correlated well with number of lymph nodes retrieved. Conclusion: In this randomized trial, laparoscopic lymphadenectomy was at least as effective as open lymphadenectomy, although operating time and blood loss were greater. Lymphangiography was a reliable, objective mode for documentation and assurance of lymph node recovery.
There is no horohalinicum

Species abundance declines to a minimum (the Artenminimum) between 5 and 8‰, not only in estuaries, but in all bodies of brackish water. Khlebovich (1968) examined published hydrochemical data for estuaries and concluded that sharp changes in the ionic composition of seawater diluted with fresh water occur at salinities below 5 to 8‰. He further argued that these ionic changes constitute a physico-chemical barrier between marine and freshwater faunas. Kinne (1971) gave the name “horohalinicum” to the segment of the salinity gradient between 8 and 5‰. We have re-examined the data used by Khlebovich (1968) and found that, in fact, while the ionic composition of diluted seawater changesslightly between 8 and 5‰, the changes in ionic ratios below 2‰ are much larger. Thus, the proposed physico-chemical barrier does not exist between 8 and 5‰; it cannot then explain the Artenminimum; and there is no basis for the horohalinicum concept of Kinne (1971). Two ecological explanations for the occurrence of the Artenminimum—a species-area effect and the stability-time hypothesis—are discussed and found to be inconsistent with published data on species distributions in brackish waters. The low species diversity of brackish water may be explained, in part, by two factors: few animals evolve those physiological mechanisms required for life in the variable habitat; and these species, which are very eurytopic, have low rates of speciation.
Angiographic embolization of posttraumatic hematobilia in a six-year-old boy.

Radiologic embolization has been effectively used to control hepatic arterial hemorrhage from a variety of causes, including trauma-related hematobilia (1–3). Although well described in adults, its reported use in pediatric trauma patients has been rare (one case) (3). A case of posttraumatic hematobilia controlled with angiographic embolization in a 6-year-old boy is reported here.
The Moderating Role of Gender Identity in Responses to Comedic Violence Advertising

Comedic violence advertising has been increasing in the United States, but many studies thus far have been content analytic in nature. To gain a better understanding of who will find comedic violence ads humorous and thus have favorable brand perceptions, two experimental studies were conducted with gender identity as an influential factor. In Study 1, masculine individuals responded more favorably to highly violent and humorous ads than feminine individuals did. Study 2 varied the violence level in the comedic violence ads and found that when violence was low both masculine and feminine individuals responded similarly to the comedic violence ad, but when violence was high masculine individuals responded more favorably than did feminine individuals. Perceived humor was found to be an important mediator of comedic violence ad processing. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are provided.
Spatial Abilities and the Effects of Computer Animation on Short-Term and Long-Term Comprehension

This study examined the effects on understanding of differing levels of visual presentations and spatial abilities with concepts involving time and motion. Subjects were presented with one of three levels of graphic presentations (no graphics, static graphics, animated graphics) which were crossed with two levels of spatial abilities (high, low). The purpose was to determine if the presentation viewed by the subjects affected levels of understanding. Results supported several predictions. As predicted, low-spatial-ability subjects receiving presentations with animation made significantly greater gains than low-spatial-ability subjects not receiving animation. On short-term comprehension, results showed that spatial ability was a statistically significant factor and on long-term understanding the type of presentation had a statistically significant effect on the subject's performance.
Risk of action tremor in relatives of tremor-dominant and postural instability gait disorder PD.

Background: Action tremor may be more prevalent in relatives of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) than in relatives of control subjects. This tremor could represent mild PD or essential tremor. An estimate of the risk of this condition in families of patients with PD is important when studying the genetics of PD. Objectives: To determine the risk of action tremor in first-degree relatives of probands with tremor-dominant PD (TD-PD) and postural instability gait disorder PD (PIGD-PD) compared with first-degree relatives of control probands. Methods: PD and control probands participated in a familial aggregation study of PD. The presence of action tremor in their relatives was ascertained from reports of one or more informants. Relatives who met diagnostic criteria for PD were excluded. Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for gender, education, race, and vital status (dead vs alive) of the relatives were used to assess the relative risk (RR) of action tremor in first-degree relatives of PD probands vs first-degree relatives of control probands. Results: There were 487 PD probands, 409 control probands, and 5,563 relatives. The risk of action tremor was higher in the relatives of TD-PD probands than in the relatives of control probands (RR = 2.14; 95% CI = 1.53 to 2.98) but not in the relatives of PIGD-PD probands compared with the relatives of control probands (RR = 1.81; 95% CI = 0.66 to 5.02). Conclusion: The risk of action tremor was increased in the relatives of PD probands, particularly when they had TD-PD. Whether the tremor in these relatives represents essential tremor or an isolated manifestation of PD requires further investigation.
Cytochemistry of Synapses: Selective Staining for Electron Microscopy

Material at synapses and in some synaptic vesicles becomes selectively stained when glutaraldehyde-fixed rat brain that has not been treated with osmium is stained with phosphotungstic acid. The material stained at synapses is distinct from the adjacent unstained synaptic membranes and has cytochemical properties of protein. The specialized spatial arrangement exhibited by this synaptic material suggests its close involvement in synaptic function.
Chronic kidney disease and life course socioeconomic status: A review

Socioeconomic status (SES) may modify the effect of well-established risk factors on the development of kidney disease. Yet, recently, a paradigm shift has occurred with an emphasis on the direct effect of SES on the development of disease. This article covers the role SES may play in initiating and promoting chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the United States, with an emphasis on life-course SES. The literature on SES and kidney disease is discussed. Life-course and social epidemiology approaches are described. Salient risk factors and markers that are associated with both SES and kidney disease early in life include diet, birth weight, and infant mortality. Risk factors associated with individual SES later in life include diabetes mellitus, hypertension, diet, smoking, alcohol, drug use, occupational and environmental exposures, infection, and access to health care. An argument is made for incorporating area-level SES measures. Future research should incorporate both individual and area-level SES and be placed in the context of the life course.
Photographic Analysis of Certain Letter Forms with Respect to Speed Changes and Stability

The photographic method of analyzing hand writing has been adapted to the purposes of this experiment. It has the advantage of being the most exacting and quantitatively suitable technique for the analysis of stability and speed. Some of the major specific measures in the determination of these characteristics are: duration and number of pauses, duration and speed of strokes and forms, percent of time to contact strokes, and percent of time to air strokes within the form. Stability in writing, meaning no change, deter ioration, or improvement of writing over a period of time, is measured in terms of changes in these specific measures.
An expanded phylogeny of Cuphea (Lythraceae) and a North American monophyly

A phylogenetic analysis of the New World genus Cuphea was conducted employing sequences from the nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and chloroplast trnL-trnF spacer and rpl16 intron. The analysis expands the number of Cuphea species from 53 in an earlier ITS study to 70 and adds two chloroplast data sets in order to generate a more complete and robust phylogeny and to test a previous result that suggested the presence of a large North American clade. Results reaffirm the monophyly of Cuphea with Pleurophora as the sister genus and recover a basal divergence event that mirrors the two subgenera of the current classification. Phylogenies of the two chloroplast regions are largely unresolved beyond the initial dichotomy and some resolution at the terminal and subterminal nodes. Based on the ITS phylogeny, five major clades are recognized. Subgenus Cuphea (Clade 1), defined morphologically by the synapomorphic loss of bracteoles, is sister to the much larger subg. Bracteolatae (Clades 2–5). Clades 2–4, comprising the South American and Caribbean species, grade successively to Clade 5, an exclusively North American lineage of 29 species. Among the 12 sections included in the study, only section Trispermum, a subclade of Clade 4, is monophyletic. Section Pseudocircaea is nested within Clade 3, which is largely equivalent to section Euandra. The North American endemic clade includes four sections, of which none are recovered as monophyletic in this study.
Transesophageal endoscopic myotomy (TEEM) for the treatment of achalasia: the United States human experience.

From our early experience with NOTES, our group has acquired familiarity with transesophageal submucosal dissection and myotomy in swine model, which allowed us to perfect a model to perform purely endoscopic transesophageal myotomy (TEEM) for the treatment of achalasia and apply it into clinical practice. This study was designed to assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of TEEM in a series of patients with achalasia. Under institutional review board approval, patients were enrolled on our study, where TEEM was offered as an alternative to laparoscopic or robotic Heller myotomy. The inclusion criteria were patients with achalasia confirmed by esophageal manometry, between age 18 and 50 years, and ASA class 2 or lower. The exclusion criteria were pregnancy, prior esophageal surgery, immunosuppression, coagulopathies, and severe medical comorbidities. The procedures were performed under general anesthesia, with the patient in supine position on positive pressure ventilation. With a GIF-180 (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) positioned at 10 cm above the GEJ, a mucosotomy was performed at the 2 o’clock position, and a submucosal space was developed caudally creating a controlled submucosal tunnel extending 2 cm distal to the GEJ. Upon completion of this tunnel the gastroesophageal lumen was inspected for mucosal integrity. The scope was then reinserted into the submucosal tunnel and using a triangle-tip knife, myotomy was performed starting at 5 cm above the GEJ and ending at 2 cm below the GEJ. During this process the circular muscle layer of the esophagus was carefully divided with preservation of the longitudinal layer. At the end of the procedure, the mucosal incision was closed longitudinally with endoscopic clips and surgical glue. Five patients underwent TEEM, with no perioperative complication. All patients reported significant improvement of their dysphagia immediately after the procedure. On the first postoperative day, all barium swallows showed disappearance of the classical bird beak taper, rapid emptying of contrast into the stomach, and absence of leaks. All patients were discharged on the second postoperative day on liquid diet. Two patients reported transient heartburn, which were well controlled with medications. The average preoperative GERD-HRQL was 20, which improved to 11.3 at 7 days postoperative and 2 at 30 days postoperative. To date, three patients have already returned for their 6-month follow-up, reporting adequate swallowing and low LES pressures on esophageal manometry (their mean preoperative LES resting pressure was 36.46 mmHg and residual pressure was 43.16 mmHg, whereas the 6-month follow-up mean LES resting pressure was 10.06 mmHg and residual pressure was 0.43 mmHg). TEEM seems to be safe, feasible, and effective for the treatment of patients with achalasia. Long-term data are still necessary for wide-spread utilization of this novel technique.
The oviductal sperm reservoir in domestic mammals

In all mammalian species studied to date, sperm cells are arrested in the caudal isthmus before ovulation to form an oviductal reservoir. When ovulation occurs, discrete numbers of sperm are released from this region and ascend to the ampulla where fertilization normally occurs. Experimental evidence indicates that the sperm reservoir is instrumental in delivering the appropriate number of sperm in the correct physiological state for normal fertilization. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of the sperm reservoir formation and functions in mammals. Sperm reservoir manipulation as a potential tool to improve reproductive performance is also discussed
Soil Water Retention Curve Description Using a Flexible Smooth Function

Water retention curves (WRC) play an essential role in characterizing soil hydraulic behavior. Numerous mathematical functions have been explicitly developed for modeling the WRC, a very recent example being a cubic spline approach using virtual data points. This study presents use of WRC functions that transition smoothly between straight-line asymptotes. We call them flexible functions. Flexible functions successfully represented a variety of WRCs, including some of rather high complexity. A reduction of root-mean-square error was often found in comparing flexible functions to other commonly used WRC functions. Integrations of the Mualem procedure for calculating relative hydraulic conductivity result in analytical expressions when using flexible functions as the WRC model. Conductivity calculated with these expressions agrees well with the RETC solution. Flexible functions are capable of representing dry regime behavior as well.
An Evaluation of Long‐term Stimulation Thresholds by Measurement of Chronic Strength Duration Curves

Successful long-term cardiac pacemaker therapy requires both reliable generator output and stable, altainable chronic stimulation thresholds. Strength duration curves, which display cardiac stimulalion thresholds as a function of impulse duration, provide needed data to evaluate more thoroughly acute and chronic lead thresholds. We measured chronic strength duration curves at the time of generator replacement in 47 patients with three different types of lead systems of variable geometry and surface area and compared these curves with acute strength duration curves measured at the time of initial lead implantation in 19 patients. We found that strength duration curves have a characteristic shape; however, chronic strength duration curves were shifted upward and to the right of acute strength duration curves, regardless of electrode tip surface area or geometric design. Our data suggest that variable pulse width exceeding 1 ms may not significantly reduce stimulation thresholds.
Nonhuman primates in behavioral toxicology: Issues of validity, ethics and public health

The small, but vital, niche of nonhuman primates in neurotoxicology is examined. Several models of sensory and cognitive function have been especially useful with primates. Their sensitivity to low doses is clear. The validity of data from these models is indicated by their high correlation with data from intoxicated and normal humans, by the degree to which they approximate job functions and other vital human performances, and by their ability to document specific changes in behavioral function which correlate well with morphological and biochemical effects. The use of primates for this research is justified by the absence of adequate alternatives using nonprimate species, in vitro tests or computer programs. A series of experiments on the effects of methylmercury is used to illustrate ethical and scientific issues concerning research with primates. Recent trends are illustrated by data with trimethyltin.