cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Salivary gland anlage tumor: molecular profiling sheds light on a morphologic question.

Objectives The salivary gland anlage tumor (SGAT), previously referred to as a “congenital pleomorphic adenoma” or a “squamous proliferative lesion,” is a rare, benign entity which presents within the first few months of life. It occurs almost exclusively in the nasopharynx or the posterior nasal cavity, and affected neonates typically present with respiratory distress and difficulty feeding. Despite this ominous clinical picture, the SGAT can be easily treated by surgical excision, with no recurrence reported in the limited cases available in the literature. Histologic examination of this lesion reveals a distinct biphasic composition containing both epithelial and mesenchymal elements. Although the clinical and histologic features of the SGAT are well-described, the etiology of this entity is still poorly understood. The SGAT is currently believed to be a hamartoma rather than a true neoplasm due to its benign nature and lack of reported recurrence following treatment, however molecular studies have yet to be performed to verify this claim. Findings We present three new cases of SGAT on which whole exome sequencing has been performed. Specific attention was given to variants affecting 964 cancer-related genes compiled from five sources: the Cancer Gene Census, Oncomine, and the targets of the cancer panels designed by the Columbia Combined Cancer Panel, Memorial Hospital for Cancer and Allied Diseases, and Foundation Medicine. In the current study, examination of the entire exome from the three cases shows no plausible sequence-level driver mutations. Conclusions Our demonstration of apparently normal exome sequences from the three cases provides molecular support for the concept of SGAT as a non-neoplastic process. These results enhance the characterization and understanding of this tumor, and illustrate the manner in which molecular studies may contribute to resolution of morphologic debates and impasses.
Frequency Response Study of U.S. Western Interconnection under Extra-High Photovoltaic Generation Penetrations

Increasing penetration levels of solar photovoltaic (PV) and the reduced inertia of inverter-based generation technologies have caught the attention of the electric power industry and academia in the United States. This paper conducts a comprehensive frequency response study of the Western Interconnection under high penetration levels of PV, which are up to 80% at the interconnection level and 100% at the regional level. Based on the 2022 Light Spring case, PV has been projected by areas for four PV penetration levels based on collected realistic PV distribution information. The overall system frequency response has been analyzed under different scenarios. In particular, the 100% regional PV penetration case has been developed to reveal local frequency issues in the Western Interconnection. The potential of using existing resources to improve frequency response has also been studied. New insights in this paper address the implications of the rapid deployment of solar generation in the Western Interconnection.
Modularity is not canonical

In 1998 the author showed that the canonical extension of a bounded modular lattice need not be modular. The proof was indirect, using a deep result of Kaplansky. In this note we give an explicit example.
Sustainability of non-fuel minerals in the U.S.: A Copper Stocks and Flows Analysis

Abstract Mined materials have constantly growing environmental footprints, as population and economic growth continue to increase demand, while ore grades continue to decline. Effective assessment of mineral sustainability, therefore, need to consider management of the entire life cycle of a material, from extraction through end of life and recycling to optimize circularity. This work will assess the sustainability of extraction and utilization of metal resources in the U.S. using copper as a case study. A stocks and flows model is developed for the complete copper life cycle, from extraction, processing, manufacturing, use, through end of life, which includes empirical data for all phases and includes a multi-year analysis. The identification and inclusion of complete end of life data in this materials flow analysis is a contribution to the knowledge base as existing models primarily predict this value based on use-phase lifetime, and do not include primary data. The model is used to identify specific life cycle phases that either enable or limit circularity of copper, and to provide guidance and insight to improve the sustainability of copper extraction and utilization.
Uncertainty Quantification in the Mechanical Response of Crystal Plasticity Simulations

Due to the uncertainty in calibrating the crystal plasticity (CP) model parameters, the present study quantifies the associated variability in the resulting mechanical response via a two-step process. First, a genetic algorithm framework is used to obtain the statistical distributions for the appropriate CP parameters. Second, those distributions are used in a first-order, second-moment method to compute the mean and the standard deviation for the stress along the loading direction ( $$ \sigma_{\text{load}} $$ ), plastic strain accumulation (PSA), and accumulated plastic strain energy density (Wp). The results suggest that a ~ 10% variability in $$ \sigma_{\text{load}} $$ and 20–25% variability in the PSA and Wp values may exist due to the uncertainty in the CP parameter estimation. Further, the contribution of a specific CP parameter to the overall uncertainty is path-dependent and varies based on the load step under consideration. The results of the present research will help practitioners to (1) identify the critical CP parameter(s) for a particular quantitative prediction of the mechanical response, (2) select appropriate experimental dataset(s) to calibrate the CP parameters, and (3) provide approximate variability in the crystal plasticity results which can propagate within a broader modeling framework.
Organometallic Catalysis: Formation of 1,3-Dioxolanes and Their Analogs Catalyzed by Methylrhenium Trioxide (MTO)

Methylrhenium trioxide (MTO) catalyzes several cycloaddition reactions. 1,3-Dioxolanes were obtained in good yields from the reactions of epoxides with aldehydes or ketones; the geometric configuration of the epoxide substituents remains unchanged in the product, which was shown to be the consequence of two configuration inversions in sequence. The independently known bis(alkoxy)rhenium complex formed from MTO and the epoxide is an intermediate that could be detected at a low level during the reaction; indeed, its formation limits the rate of the overall reaction. Related cycloaddition reactions are the formation of ketene acetals from diphenylketene and epoxides and of oxazolidines from aromatic imines and epoxides, both MTO-catalyzed.
An expectation operator for belief functions in the Dempster–Shafer theory*

The main contribution of this paper is a new definition of expected value of belief functions in the Dempster–Shafer (D–S) theory of evidence. Our definition shares many of the properties of the ex...
Vetting the Evidence: Librarian Involvement in a Health System Clinical Practice Council

Health-care systems are known to be complex organizations. Complexity often brings an unnecessary variation of care. Allina Health is a not-for-profit health-care system located in central Minnesot...
Lithium: Clinical Considerations

Lithium is available in the United States in the carbonate form and is marketed in the form of capsules or tablets containing 300 mg. Lithium carbonate is a white, light alkaline powder with the molecular formula Li2CO3 and molecular weight 73.89. This ion is an element of the alkali-metal group with atomic number 3, atomic weight 6.94, and an emission line at 671 nm on the flame photometer.
Single-port robotic left colectomy: first clinical experience using the SP robot (rSILS)

The single-port daVinci robot is a new platform designed to facilitate single-incision surgeries. The objective of this study was to describe the first clinical experience in colorectal surgery using a novel single-port robotic system and report its feasibility and safety. After Institutional Review Board approval was obtained and the study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, we performed single port robot-assisted left colectomy using the novel daVinci SP surgical system on two patients. The surgeries were completed through a single incision. The multichannel port accommodates a three-dimensional articulating camera and three double-jointed articulating instruments. The primary aim of this study was to report, for the first time in the USA, the technical feasibility of the procedure in the living human. The secondary aim was to report the outcomes including blood loss, number of incisions, number of dockings, docking time of the robot, incision length, operative time, console time, need for additional port and instrumentation, intraoperative complications, morbidity and mortality, time for tolerating diet, bowel function, and discharge. Both surgeries were completed without conversion through a single incision, 4.0 and 4.5 cm in size. Estimated blood loss was less than 60 ml in both cases. The robot was docked two and three times. Mean time to dock was 13 min (range 3–33 min). There were no intraoperative complications, no morbidity or death. Discharges occurred on postoperative days 2 and 3. Single-port robotic colectomy using the new robot is feasible and can be safely completed. The overall utility and functionality of the SP robot portends wide utilization and expansion of this technique. Careful development and analysis of the procedure outcomes, training, and cost will be necessary to properly advance the field.
Integrating 3D printing and self-assembly for layered polymer/nanoparticle microstructures as high-performance sensors

The development of highly sensitive, selective, and low-cost chemical sensors that can detect trace amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is essential for environmental sustainability and human health monitoring. Here, a layer-by-layer technique for selective deposition and aligned placement of nanoparticles dependent upon 3D printing-enabled surface patterns is demonstrated. A reasonable deposition density and the preferential alignment of nanoparticles, here carbon nanofibers (CNFs), produced a high-performance chemosensor that can detect low concentrations of VOCs in gas and liquid forms. The highly enhanced sensitivity and selectivity were attributed to efficient electron transport and inter- and intra-nanofiber hopping. This research sheds light on a method to develop rapidly prototyped chemosensors, which are desired for applications in nanocomposite reinforcement, design of supercapacitor and battery devices, thermal dissipation management, surface tension control, and drug delivery systems.
Exosomes are predominantly loaded with mRNA transcript encoding cytoplasmic proteins and exclude mRNA transcript encoding nuclear proteins

Abstract Exosomes are nanovesicles (~30-150 nm diameters) released via an endocytic pathway in almost all mammalian cell types. Exosomes are composed of a lipid bilayer membrane that encloses RNA, miRNA, proteins and DNA. This manuscript unravels how exosome cargo is collected by a highly precise process delineating two separate mRNA transcript entities encoding cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins separately. Ultracentrifuge isolated exosomes were directly converted into cDNA (Exo-cDNA), by a method developed in our laboratory. Cellular RNA was extracted from each cell line and cDNA was prepared (Cell-cDNA). We amplified mRNA transcripts translating cytoplasmic proteins CD10 and CXCR4 and mRNA transcripts translating nuclear proteins such as proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), CREB-BP, activation induced cytidine deaminase (AID), and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT). We amplified all four different mRNA transcripts (PCNA, CREB-BP, AID, and TdT) from cellular cDNA but none from exosomal cDNA (Exo-cDNA). These findings suggest that exosomes carry mRNA transcripts encoding cytoplasmic proteins only but mRNA transcripts encoding nuclear proteins could not be detected. This important observation could prove to be crucial for the exosome research community since it sheds light on one of the limitations relating to the use of exosomes as biomarkers in cancer biology and other diseases. Graphical Abstract
Fate of Staphylococcus aureus in cultured buttermilk, sour cream, and yogurt during storage

Five brands each of commercially produced cultured buttermilk, sour cream, and unflavored yogurt were inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus to contain initial numbers of approximately 102 and 105 organisms per gram. Inoculated products were stored at 7 and 23 C and were tested daily to determine numbers of viable staphylococci. Generally, products which contained initial numbers of 102 organisms per gram were free of viable staphylococci, or nearly so, within 24 hr regardless of storage temperature. When products were inoculated with higher numbers of the organism, survival was greatest in sour cream which was followed in order by buttermilk and yogurt. Yogurt samples with approximately 105 organisms per gram, initially, were free of viable staphylococci by the 2nd to 4th day of storage, whereas the organisms persisted in sour cream until the 4th to 7th day. Survival was markedly higher in one brand of sour cream and somewhat so in another. Temperature of storage had no obvious effect on survival of staph...
The latent characteristics that structure autocratic rule

Research on autocratic regimes in comparative politics and international relations often uses categorical typologies of autocratic regimes to distinguish among different forms of autocracy. This paper introduces historical data on dozens of features of dictatorships to estimate latent dimensions of autocratic rule. We identify three time-varying dimensions of autocracy that correspond to ideal types proposed in the literature: party dominance, military rule, and personalism. We show that dimensions of autocratic rule are orthogonal to commonly-used measures of democracy–autocracy, and compare these dimensions to existing typologies of autocracies, showing that time-varying information on personalism is unique. We discuss a measurement model of personalism and illustrate the time-varying features of this measure in applied research on conflict initiation and regime collapse.
How Do Local Government Finances Respond to the Opioid Epidemics? Evidence From Hydrocodone Rescheduling

The opioid epidemic has dramatically impacted communities across the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control statistics, more than 72,000 people died from an overdose in 2017, of which two-thirds were opioid-related. In this study, I address the effects of such an epidemic directly on the finances of local governments. Specifically, I use the exposure to hydrocodone prescriptions and the rescheduling among regulated substances by the DEA as a source of exogenous variation and compare results in three settings: standard difference-in-difference, and counterfactual created using nearest neighbors regression and generalized random forests. I find that the rescheduling led to an increase in health expenditures driven mainly by localities that are still, as of 2016, suffering the epidemics. This is consistent for the standard difference-in-difference as well as for the nearest neighbor regressions. A similar finding is obtained using generalized random forests with noisier estimates, however, heterogeneity is determined by race, education, and prevalence of rural population instead of overdose rates.
Competence and warmth stereotypes prompt mental illness stigma through emotions

Public stigma toward mental illness subgroups (11 mental illness subgroups and 2 subgroups perceived to have mental illness) was examined. Competence and warmth stereotypes were used to predict emotional reactions posited to mediate behavioral inclinations ranging from passive to active harm or facilitation. Fear mediated the relationship between low competence and warmth stereotypes and passive harm. Anger, and to a lesser extent fear, mediated the relationship between low warmth and active harm. Pity mediated the relationship between warmth and active facilitation. Neither envy nor admiration linked stereotypes to behavioral reactions. Results suggest that emotions share motivational direction with behavior, to approach or to avoid, rather than simply sharing valence. Implications for research on stigma toward mental illness subgroups are discussed.
Computation and measurement of electron circulation patterns in phase space

Summary form only given. We present numerical results and measurements of electron fluxes in phase space in a low-pressure inductively coupled plasma (ICP). Numerical results were obtained with a two-dimensional plasma model which resolves the ICP structure in radial and axial directions. The electron Boltzmann equation is solved for this spatially two-dimensional problem in the two-term and the effective field approximation. The electron flux pattern at constant energy are obtained from the anisotropy component of the electron distribution function (EDF). Measurement of the EDF were performed with a Langmuir probe mechanism.
Dietary trilinoelaidate: effects on organ fatty acid composition, prostanoid biosynthesis and platelet function in rats.

Incremental levels of trilinoelaidate (tt18:2) were fed to rats for 11 weeks and changes in lung and epididymal lipid fatty acid composition were determined, and concentrations of prostanoids in serum, lung and stomach fundus were measured. Platelet aggregation to various agonists was tested. In the lung there was a concomitant increase of linoelaidate corresponding to incremental dietary levels in all lipid classes (phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine-phosphatidylinositol and neutral lipids). Arachidonic acid in lung phosphatidylcholine was markedly decreased. Epididymis accumulated linoelaidate in only the neutral lipid fraction; no tt18:2 was found in any of the phospholipid classes. Serum prostanoid levels (thromboxane B2 and prostaglandins PGF2 alpha and PGE) were significantly decreased in rats fed high levels of tt18:2, but were not altered at lower levels of consumption; the concentrations of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha were not significantly altered at any level of tt18:2. Platelet responsiveness to various agonists was not significantly altered by incremental dietary trilinoelaidate, i.e., ADP, thrombin, collagen and calcium elicited similar aggregation responses. In conclusion, dietary trilinoelaidate at low levels of consumption, while being incorporated into various lipid classes, did not alter serum and tissue prostanoid levels or markedly affect platelet aggregation.
Motivation, Organizational Identification, and Experiences of the Quality Examiner

Little has been written about the role played by volunteer examiners within an organization in the success of quality assessment programs such as the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. Insight is provided into what motivations and influences, espe..
Mechanisms underlying AlCl3 inhibition of agonist-stimulated inositol phosphate accumulation: Role of calcium, G-proteins, phospholipase C and protein kinase C

Possible mechanisms of AlCl3-induced inhibition of agonist-stimulated inositol phosphate (IP) accumulation were investigated using rat brain cortex slices, synaptosomes or homogenates. Under conditions in which AlCl3 inhibits carbachol (CARB)-stimulated IP accumulation (Gp-mediated), AlCl3 did not affect CARB (100 microM)-induced decreases (Gi-mediated) in 30 microM forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation, suggesting that AlCl3 may be specific for Gp-mediated signal transduction. To determine whether AlCl3 interfered with Gp function and/or phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PiPLC) activity, effects of AlCl3 on CARB- and Ca(2+)-stimulated IP accumulation were examined in cortical synaptosomes. AlCl3 (500 microM) decreased CARB (1 mM)- and Ca2+ (20 microM ionomycin)-stimulated IP accumulation to 77 and 75% of control, respectively, suggesting that AlCl3 may not directly affect Gp activity, but does inhibit PiPLC activity. In cortical homogenates, AlCl3 (10-500 microM) inhibited hydrolysis of [3H]phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) by PiPLC in a concentration-dependent manner with an estimated IC50 of 100 microM. The effects of AlCl3 on modulation of IP accumulation by extracellular Ca2+ and PKC were also examined as potential mechanisms. Decreasing the extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]e) from 1.0 to 0.1 mM decreased CARB-stimulated IP accumulation in slices. AlCl3 (500 microM) decreased significantly 1 mM CARB-stimulated IP accumulation in 1.0 and 0.1 mM Ca2+ solutions; however, the effect of AlCl3 on IP accumulation did not depend on [Ca2+]e. In cortical slices, inhibition of 1 mM CARB-stimulated IP accumulation by 500 microM AlCl3 was not altered by the PKC activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PdBu, 1 microM), or the PKC inhibitor H-7 (10 microM), suggesting that AlCl3 does not interfere with IP accumulation by activation of PKC. Other studies found that AlCl3 (10-100 microM) inhibited PKC activity in a concentration-dependent manner in both cytosolic and membrane fractions of cortical homogenates with an estimated IC50 of 60 microM. These results support the hypothesis that AlCl3 inhibition of agonist-stimulated IP accumulation may be mediated by inhibition of PiPLC activity, rather than disruption of G-protein function or modulation of the IP signalling system by Ca2+ or PKC.
Comprehensive Cancer Control Partners’ Use of and Attitudes About Evidence-Based Practices

Introduction National Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (NCCCP) awardees are encouraged to work with partners (eg, nonprofit organizations) to develop and implement plans to reduce the cancer burden in their jurisdictions using evidence-based practices (EBPs). However, the extent of EBP use among awardees and their partners is not well understood. Methods From March through July 2012, we conducted a web-based survey of program partners referred by NCCCP program directors who were involved in implementation of cancer control plans. Results Approximately 53% of referred partners (n = 83) completed surveys, 91.6% of whom represented organizations. Most partners reported involvement in helping to identify (80.5%), adapt (81.7%), implement (90.4%), and evaluate (81.9%) EBPs. The factors rated most frequently as very important when selecting EBPs were "consistent with our organization's mission" (89.2%) and "cost-effective" (81.9%). Although most respondents said that their organizations understood the importance of using EBPs (84.3%) and had adequate access to cancer registry data (74.7%), few reported having sufficient financial resources to develop new EBPs (7.9%). The most frequently mentioned benefit of using EBPs was that they are proven to work. Resource limitations and difficulty adapting EBPs for specific populations and settings were challenges. Conclusions Our findings help indicate how NCCCP partners are involved in using EBPs and can guide ongoing efforts to encourage the use of EBPs for cancer control. The challenges of using EBPs that partners identified highlight the need to improve strategies to translate cancer prevention and control research into practice in real-world settings and for diverse populations.
Quorum sensing: fact, fiction, and everything in between.

Publisher Summary Quorum sensing was commonly referred to as autoinduction. Autoinduction was originally described for the Gram-negative marine organism Vibrio fischeri in early 1970s. The series of experiments conducted by Kempner and Hanson (1968) revealed induction of bioluminescence in freshly inoculated V. fischeri. There is no doubt that the practical applications of quorum-sensing research carry enormous potential; however, it is crucial to realize that the direction of scientific exploration has always been influenced by the opinions of the scientific community. There are numerous examples in the history of science of appealing yet inaccurate functional theories that directed research onto a path of ambiguity. The attempt to utilize the relatively simple AI-2 detection assay initiated numerous questions, which led to uncover conflicting theories in every major aspect of quorum-sensing research. The very function of quorum sensing is not completely clear. The evolution of this process in bacteria could possibly have been driven by the need to sense the flow dynamics of their immediate environment, as opposed to the need for a concerted response. Since multiple factors could influence the direction of development in evolution, both theories could be correct and therefore have a right for coexistence. Conversely, the theory of AI-2-mediated interspecies communication seems likely to remain weak or even fall apart from insufficient supportive results.
Relating to others

The role of relationships in life contexts of relationships developing relationships and developing people developing a steady and exclusive partnership managing relationships when relationships come apart putting relationships right overview.
An improved etchback planarization process using a super planarizing spin-on sacrificial layer

Summary form only given. An improved process that uses a novel thermal flow/thermal setting polymer that can planarize even the largest geometries after a reflow at 200 degrees C is described. The planarization properties of this novel polymer were determined by coating it over 1.0- mu m step heights of different widths. The step heights over the line structure before and after the polymer coating were measured using a profilometer. A 1.2- mu m thick coating was used in these studies. The planarization etch was carried out in a reactive-ion-etching system. The etch rates of SiON depended weakly on the oxygen content, while the etch rates of the new organic material are a strong function of the oxygen content. Due to local loading effects, the etch rate ratio of the polymer to the CVD dielectric film cannot be maintained at a 1:1 ratio as measured by test wafers. In fact, the ratio has to be considerably less than 1 to give a planarized surface. >
Strength and Crystalline Structure of Developing Acala Cotton

Single fiber strengths and crystalline structures of greenhouse-grown Maxxa Acala cotton fibers at varying stages of development and at maturity are reported and compared with those of SJ-2 cotton fibers. Single fiber breaking forces of the Maxxa variety increase most significantly during the fourth week of fiber development; these increases correlate to the 60 to 90 mg seed fiber weight range. The forces required to break single fibers are similar for the SJ-2 and Maxxa varieties through the end of the fourth week of development. Beyond 30 dpa, both single fiber breaking forces and tenacities of the Maxxa cotton fibers are higher than those of the SJ-2 cotton fibers. Four waxd peaks located near 2θ angles of 14.7, 16.6, 22.7, and 34.4° are characteristic of the 101, 101, 002, and 040 reflections of cellulose I, respectively. The 002 peak intensity increases greatly during cellulose biosynthesis, indicating improved alignment of the glucosidic rings and improved order of atoms located within the glucosidi...
Space-time coded wideband CDMA systems

In this paper, we consider utilizing the space-time codes in the wideband CDMA system. We assume that there are multiple resolvable paths in the frequency selective fading channel. Analytical results show that in addition to spatial diversity, another diversity gain called multipath diversity is achievable. Performance criterion for full space multipath diversity gain is analyzed. We consider both the case that the receiver has the ideal channel state information and the case that there are errors in the channel state information available to the receiver. A RAKE receiver is used in the CDMA system to gain the multipath diversity. We derive the generalized RAKE receiver structure for the space-time block coding (STBC) coded wideband CDMA systems. The simulation results demonstrate the additional gain guaranteed by the multipath diversity.
Behavioral Phenotyping of a Transgenic Caenorhabditis Elegans Expressing Neuronal Amyloid-β

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is rapidly reaching epidemic proportions in the United States, currently affecting more than 5 million individuals and predicted to affect 14 million by 2050. Despite a general consensus that the amyloid-beta (Abeta) protein plays a significant role in disease progression, the underlying pathology of the disease is not entirely clear. Caenorhabditis elegans is a simple organism that has been used as a model for basic mechanistic studies on the underlying pathological processes involved in AD. Previous studies from our labs demonstrated that transgenic C. elegans with muscle specific expression of human Abeta undergo rapid paralysis, and worms with neuronal expression of Abeta show deficits in chemotaxis to volatile chemicals. In this study, we evaluate the effect of neuron specific expression of Abeta on multiple neuronally controlled behaviors in a transgenic C. elegans. These worms demonstrate deficits in odorant preference associative learning behavior, and the serotonin-controlled behaviors experience-dependent learning and egg laying. These newly identified learning-deficit behavioral phenotypes in the neuronal Abeta C. elegans suggest that the model may be used to elucidate underlying pathological events related to development of AD and for pharmaceutical intervention.
Robust solution of algebraic process modelling equations

Abstract A robust solution method for the large-scale, structured sparse nonlinear algebraic equation systems involved in steady-state process modelling calculations is presented. The method retains rapid local convergence by embedding Newton's method within a branch and bound framework providing rigorous global convergence. The strategy invokes progressively more involved computations as needed, solving linear programs that combine local Jacobian and global bounding information to generate corrected search directions and assess region feasibility. Interval analysis techniques are employed to automatically generate bounding functions from the analytical expressions for the equations. Adaptive domain partitioning and a branch and bound structure provide a formal backtracking mechanism. Details of the algorithm are described, and the results of tests on both small problems and flowsheeting systems in a few thousand variables are presented. The tests demonstrate effective performance on a variety of process modelling problems. In large-scale problems, the importance of using efficient LP solution methods is evidenced.
Genetic Mechanisms Mediating Kisspeptin Regulation of GnRH gene Expression

Kisspeptins (Kiss) have been shown to be key components in the regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. In vitro studies have demonstrated an increase in GnRH gene expression by Kiss suggesting regulation of GnRH at both the secretory and pretranslational levels. Here, we define genetic mechanisms that mediate Kiss action on target gene expression. In vitro, sequential deletions of the mouse GnRH (mGnRH) gene promoter fused to the luciferase (LUC) reporter gene localized at kisspeptin-response element (KsRE) between -3446 and -2806 bp of the mGnRH gene. In vivo, transgenic mice bearing sequential deletions of the mGnRH gene promoter linked to the LUC reporter localized an identical KsRE. To define the mechanism of regulation, Kiss was first shown to induce nucleosome-depleted DNA within the KsRE, and a potential binding site for the transcription factor, Otx-2, was revealed. Furthermore, increased Otx-2 mRNA, protein, and binding to the KsRE after Kiss treatment were demonstrated. In conclusion, this work identified elements in GnRH-neuronal cell lines and in transgenic mice that mediate positive regulation of GnRH by Kiss. In addition, we show for the first time that Otx-2 is regulated by Kiss, and plays a role in mediating the transcriptional response of mGnRH gene.
Laser-excited hot-electron induced desorption: A theoretical model applied to NO/Pt(111)

Abstract We present a theoretical model for stimulated desorption due to the interaction of energetic substrate carriers with molecular adsorbates. The model is based on the premise that optically excited hot electrons scatter into an unoccupied valence electron resonance of the adsorbate, thus forming a temporary negative molecular ion which then experiences an enhanced attraction towards the substrate. Neutralization of the ion returns the adsorbed molecule to one of the continuum states of the molecule/substrate potential energy surface, possibly in an internally excited state. The consequences of such a model are worked out using semiclassical wave packet dynamics which, in the short time limit relevant to the present situation, can be brought to an analytic realization. The model provides considerable insight into recent experiments on the laser-induced desorption of NO from Pt(111).
Propagation, Transverse, Diffraction Effects, And Coherent Pump Dynamics In Three-Level Superfluorescence And Light Control By Light

Calculational results and analysis are presented and discussed for the effects of coherent pump dynamics, propagation, transverse and diffraction effects on superfluorescent (SF) emission from an optically-pumped three-level system. The full, co-propagational aspects of the injected pump pulse together with the SF which evolves are explicitly treated in the calculation. It is shown that the injection pulse initial characteris-tics can have a strong effect on the SF emission.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The subcellular distribution of endogenous and exogenous serotonin in brain tissue: comparison of synaptosomes storing serotonin, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid.

— We have studied the subcellular distribution of exogenous and endogenous serotinin in slices from the hypothalamus and midbrain of several species. In a procedure which appears to label the endogenous pools, tissue slices were incubated with low concentrations of [3H]5-HT (5 × 10-8 M), for 45 min, when there was apparent equilibrium between [3H]5-HT of tissue and medium. After the tissue slices were homogenized in 0-32 M-sucrose and subjected to differential centrifugation, the distribution of exogenous and endogenous 5-HT in pellets and supernatant fluid was similar. In some experiments, the crude mitochondrial pellets were resuspended in 0-32 M-sucrose, layered on linear, continuous density gradients of sucrose (1 -5-0-32 M), and centrifuged for short times (incomplete equilibrium centrifugation). The subcellular distribution of particulate tritium, total tritium, and particulate endogenous 5-HT was the same in portions of the gradients containing synaptosomes. The peak distribution of [3H]5-HT in sucrose gradients was separable from the peak for [14C]GABA by four to five fractions; potassium (a marker for cytoplasm occluded within synaptosomes) occurred in the regions of the gradients containing most of the labelled compounds. The distribution of monoamine oxidase activity (a mitochondrial marker) overlapped the distribution of [3H]5-HT after a 15 min centrifugation but appeared in denser regions of the gradient after centrifuging for 2 h. Particles containing [3H]5-HT and [I4C]NE were slightly but consistently separable in synaptosomal fractions isolated from the hypothalamus or midbrain of rat, guinea pig and hamster.
Linkages between international organizations and individuals: Three cases

The paper examines the two principal types of linkages between international organizations and individuals: the state‐centric and transnational patterns. The Hague Conference on Private International Law illustrates the first pattern; the Inter‐American Commission of Women and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the second. The organizations are evaluated and the targets of organization action, analyzed. Finally, a typology relating types of international organizations (by organizational characteristics) to targets is proposed.
Routine ileal intubation during screening colonoscopy: a useful maneuver?

Background The utility of routine ileoscopy as a component of screening colonoscopy is unclear. Many endoscopists believe that routine intubation of the terminal ileum is a requirement for a full-screening colonoscopy. The authors have hypothesized that routine ileal intubation during screening colonoscopy is of little diagnostic value. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed using a prospectively maintained colonoscopy database of patients identified as undergoing a screening colonoscopy. All had undergone intubation of the terminal ileum at a tertiary referral center. Those who had undergone screening colonoscopy at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) were entered prospectively into a database. The study identified 6,408 patients who met the criteria of having terminal ileal intubation at the time of screening colonoscopy. The main outcome measured was abnormality of the terminal ileum at ileal intubation. Results Ileoscopy showed grossly abnormal findings for only 1% of the patients, and pathologic abnormalities were identified for only 0.3% of all the patients. Conclusions The findings support the conclusion that intubation of the terminal ileum should not be a required part of screening colonoscopy.
A theory of application service provider (ASP) use from a client perspective

Since the late 1990s, "application service providers" (ASPs) have offered telecommunication-based application services. ASP use can be considered a type of IS outsourcing as well as the creation of an inter-organizational system, such as is created for electronic data interchange (EDI). We developed a theory of ASP adoption and use from the client's perspective based on analysis of primary and secondary data on ASP use and analysis of literature on IS outsourcing and EDI. We present a model and highlight similarities and differences between conventional IS outsourcing, ASP use, and EDI.
Utilization of Cardiothoracic Surgeons for Operative Penetrating Thoracic Trauma and Its Impact on Clinical Outcomes

Background Large series reporting outcomes for penetrating thoracic trauma have identified injury pattern and injury severity scoring as predictors of poor outcome. However, the impact of surgical expertise on patient outcomes has not been previously investigated. We sought to determine how often board-certified cardiothoracic surgeons are utilized for operative thoracic trauma and whether this has an effect on patient outcomes. Methods A level I trauma center registry was queried between 2003 and 2011. Records of patients undergoing surgery as a result of penetrating thoracic trauma were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, injuries, injury severity, utilization of a cardiothoracic surgical operative consult and outcomes were recorded. Patients operated on by cardiothoracic surgeons were compared with patients operated on by trauma surgeons using stepwise multivariate analyses to determine the factors associated with utilization of cardiothoracic surgeons for operative thoracic trauma and survival. Results Cardiothoracic surgeons were used in 73.0% of cases (162 of 222) over the study period. The use of cardiothoracic surgeons increased incrementally both overall (38.5% to 73.9%), and for emergent/urgent cases (31.8% to 73.3%). When comparing patients undergoing operation on an emergent/urgent basis by cardiothoracic versus trauma surgeons, there was no significant difference with regard to demographics, mechanism of injury, injury severity scoring, or surgical morbidity. Stepwise logistic regression showed the presence of a cardiothoracic surgeon to be independently associated with survival (odds ratio 4.70; p = 0.019). Conclusions Use of cardiothoracic surgeons for operative thoracic trauma increased over the study period. Outcomes for severely injured patients with elevated chest injury scores or decreased revised trauma scores may be improved with appropriate operative consultation with a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon.
Comparison of Melengestrol Acetate-Prostaglandin F2α to Syncro-Mate B for estrus synchronization in beef heifers

Three hundred and ten yearling heifers of various breeds were used in five trials to compare two estrus synchronization treatments. Treatment 1 consisted of Melengestrol Acetate-Prostaglandin F(2)alpha (MGA-PGF(2)alpha). Heifers were fed 0.5 mg MGA/head/d for 14 to 16 d. Sixteen or 17 d after the final MGA feeding, heifers were injected i.m. with 25 mg PGF(2)alpha. Treatment 2 consisted of Syncro-Mate B (SMB). Heifers were given a 9-d norgestomet implant plus an injection containing 3 mg norgestomet and 5 mg estradiol valerate i.m. at implant insertion. Heifers were observed for estrus at 6-h intervals for 120 h after the end of treatments and were artificially inseminated 12 to 18 h after observed estrus. Heifers synchronized with MGA-PGF(2)alpha and SMB had a similar (P > 0.10) estrous response (83.4 vs 90.2%) and a similar (P > 0.10) degree of synchrony (71.8 vs 79.0%) following treatment. However, the synchronized conception rate (68.7 vs 40.6%) and the synchronized pregnancy rate (57.3 vs 36.6%) were higher (P < 0.01) in MGA-PGF(2)alpha than SMB heifers. Breeding season pregnancy rates were similar in both treatment groups. Heifers in both groups that were classified as cycling prior to initiation of treatment had improved reproductive performance following synchronization compared with those classified as noncycling. Based on higher synchronized conception and pregnancy rates and lower labor requirements and drug costs, the MGA-PGF(2)alpha system appears to be a better method to synchronize estrus in beef heifers than the SMB system.
Beginning Antiretroviral Therapy for Patients with HIV

In this article, we review the options for initial antiretroviral therapy, including the data from clinical trials to support these choices and the factors to consider in selection of a regimen to best fit each patient.
EVOLUTIONARY CONSTRAINT AND ECOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES

One of the most important shifts in evolutionary biology in the past 50 years is an increased recognition of sluggish evolution and failures to adapt, which seem paradoxical in view of abundant genetic variation and many instances of rapid local adaptation. I review hypotheses of evolutionary constraint (or restraint), and suggest that although constraints on individual characters or character complexes may often reside in the structure or paucity of genetic variation, organism-wide stasis, as described by paleontologists, might better be explained by a hypothesis of ephemeral divergence, according to which the spatial or temporal divergence of populations is often short-lived because of interbreeding with nondivergent populations. Among the many consequences of acknowledging evolutionary constraints, community ecology is being transformed as it takes into account phylogenetic niche conservatism and the strong imprint of deep history.
Trends in Patron Use of Physical Media Materials and Subscription Online Media Databases at the University of Louisville: A Ten-Year Study

This study analyzes circulation trends of physical media materials (CDs, LPs, DVDs, and VHS tapes), as well as usage data of subscription online streaming media databases at the University of Louisville for the ten-year period of 2002–2011. As patron use of the library's subscription online streaming media databases such as Naxos Music Library and Alexander Street Press Classical Music Library has increased each year over the past decade, the circulation of physical media items has decreased significantly during the same time period.
Einstein's struggle for a Machian gravitation theory

Abstract The story of Einstein's struggle to create a general theory of relativity, and his early discontentment with the final form of the theory (1915), is well known in broad outline. Thanks to the work of John Norton and others, much of the fine detail of the story is also now known. One aspect of Einstein's work in this period has, however, been relatively neglected: Einstein's commitment to Mach's ideas on inertia, and the influence this commitment had on Einstein's work on general relativity from 1907 to 1918. In this paper published writings and archival material are examined, to try to reconstruct the details of Einstein's thinking about inertia and gravitation, and the role that Mach's ideas played in Einstein's crucial work on the general theory. By the end, a clear picture of Einstein's conceptions of Mach's ideas on inertia, and their philosophical motivations, will emerge. Several surprising conclusions also emerge: Einstein's desire for a Machian gravitation theory was the central force driving his work from 1912 to 1915, keeping him going despite numerous frustrating setbacks; Einstein's continued commitment to Mach's ideas in 1916–1917 kept him at work trying various strategies of modification of the field equations, in order to exclude anti-Machian solutions (including the addition of the cosmological constant in 1917); and as late as early 1918, Einstein was ready to call the whole General Theory a failure if no way of squaring it with Mach's ideas on inertia could be found. But by 1920 Einstein advocated a view that granted spacetime (under the name ‘ether’) independent existence with physical qualities of its own, a complete break with his earlier Machian views.
Developing sensitivity to correlated cues

Children of two grade levels (second and third, and fifth and sixth) and college adults (N=144) were presented random shapes of varying numbers of turns for tachistoscopic recognition. The relation between number of turns of the shapes and color of the shapes was either 1:1 or random. The children treated the correlated relation as a random pairing of cues. However, adults were sensitive to correlation; they showed significant improvement in their estimation of the shapes with correlated colors.