cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ambient-processable high capacitance hafnia-organic self-assembled nanodielectrics

Ambient and solution-processable, low-leakage, high capacitance gate dielectrics are of great interest for advances in low-cost, flexible, thin-film transistor circuitry. Here we report a new hafnium oxide-organic self-assembled nanodielectric (Hf-SAND) material consisting of regular, alternating π-electron layers of 4-[[4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]phenyl]diazenyl]-1-[4-(diethoxyphosphoryl) benzyl]pyridinium bromide) (PAE) and HfO2 nanolayers. These Hf-SAND multilayers are grown from solution in ambient with processing temperatures ≤150 °C and are characterized by AFM, XPS, X-ray reflectivity (2.3 nm repeat spacing), X-ray fluorescence, cross-sectional TEM, and capacitance measurements. The latter yield the largest capacitance to date (1.1 μF/cm2) for a solid-state solution-processed hybrid inorganic–organic gate dielectric, with effective oxide thickness values as low as 3.1 nm and have gate leakage <10–7 A/cm2 at ±2 MV/cm using photolithographically patterned contacts (0.04 mm2). The sizable Hf-SAND cap...
Fixation Techniques for Split Anterior Tibialis Transfer in Spastic Equinovarus Feet

Equinovarus of the foot is the most common lower extremity deformity following traumatic brain injury. We evaluated outcomes of the split anterior tibialis tendon transfer (SPLATT) for correction of equinovarus in 47 patients with hemiplegic traumatic brain injury and specifically studied differences in outcomes with two tendon fixation techniques. Seventeen patients constituting Group I underwent fixation with one technique and 30 constituting Group II had another technique. Patients in both groups had appropriate procedures based on dynamic electromyography and gait analyses. Both groups were demographically comparable. All 47 feet were corrected to plantigrade position. Thirty-six of 47 patients became brace-free at final followup. There was a notable decrease in the use of ambulatory aids and ambulatory status improved in both groups. There were three fixation-related complications in Group I and none in Group II. Surgical correction of the spastic equinovarus with SPLATT, in the appropriate patient, with or without associated tendon procedures helps to achieve and maintain correction, improves the ambulatory status of the patient, and eliminates the need for bracing in as much as 77% of patients. We recommend the Group II construct owing to the considerably lower complication rate.
Yugoslavia: Marching to the beat of a different drummer

The case of Yugoslavia in 1992 is a case of disintegration in Europe and a case of madness that affects European thought. It is a case that runs directly counter to the expectations of the theme of ‘European Integration and the European Mind’ discussed at the Aalborg conference. We must remember that what happens in northwest Balkans happens in Europe. The population, economy, philosophy, values and beliefs are part of Europe. The responsibility is part of Europe as well. The tragedy of the northwest Balkans cannot-be explained by rational, humanistic models. It is not the inevitable result of some dialectic, typology or developmental model. Furthermore, what happens is not the result of the actions of a discrete set of sick individuals whose elimination would make things right. What we have seen in the northwest Balkans is the failure of individuals, groups and nations to take responsibility for the course of history. We have seen a group of nations become captives to a set of dysfunctional historical myths. The responsibility for this failure includes those who have power in the region; it includes the people who live in the region. Most of all, the failure to take responsibility embraces all of us who believe in a civil society, rule of law, democratic pluralism, and individual rights and freedom and who did nothing when these basic freedoms were violated. In other words, all of us share part of the burden of this failure to take action. Our inaction in the Balkans has given a lie to the concept of European integration, as well as to the older values of equality, fraternity and freedom. Our inaction has been tantamount to permitting a police force in a city to decide that one of its neighbourhoods should be delivered to the hands of the criminally insane. The true tragedy of Yugoslavia, therefore, has been the politics of indifference to treat the madness around us.
Modified Generalized Loopback techniques

We consider different approaches to achieve survivability in optical Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) metropolitan area networks (MANs), where network topology needs to alter according to frequently changing demands, only protection switching methods are suitable that can easily adapt to changes in the network. Additionally, the survivability method should be efficient in terms of the use of network resources, and must be fast in recovery speed. Considering networks with wavelength converters, we propose two new techniques for such failure recovery in the networks: Modified Generalized Loopback method A, and method B. In method A, primary and backup paths share the same pair of fibers. Method A is suitable for networks with low link utilization. The excess capacity on the same fiber pair is used for protection. We show that our method (A), by eliminating the need for a separate pair of protection fibers, has considerable better resource utilization compared with the old generalized loopback method. Method B should be considered for networks with high link utilization. In this method, like the old generalized loopback method, an extra pair of fibers is used for protection (conjugate digraph). However, in our method B, we allow protection links use the main digraph as well, if backup links cannot be routed on the conjugated (backup) digraph due to too many simultaneous failures. We consider the recovery from multiple failures under modified generalized technique method B and will compare it with the old generalized loopback method.
Evaluation of 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine-biocytin as a new hepatobiliary imaging agent in mice coinjected with bilirubin

Abstract We evaluated 99m Tc-labeled mercaptoacetyltriglycine ( 99m Tc-MAG3)-biocytin as a hepatobiliary imaging agent in the absence and presence of bilirubin in mice. We then compared its pharmacokinetic parameters; peak liver/heart activity ratio ( r max ) and half clearance time (HCT) with those of 99m Tc-labeled diisopropyl-iminodiacetic acid ( 99m Tc-disofenin). Balb/c mice were injected intravenously with hepatobiliary agent ( 99m Tc-MAG3-biocytin or 99m Tc-disofenin) alone or in combination with bilirubin at two doses (7 and 14 mg/kg) dissolved in 5% human serum albumin. Images were acquired every 15 s for 30 min with a gamma-camera equipped with a pinhole collimator. Dynamic images showed rapid hepatic uptake of 99m Tc-MAG3-biocytin, with rapid clearance from the blood and rapid excretion via the biliary system. Its hepatic uptake was not affected by bilirubin coinjection, whereas 99m Tc-disofenin coinjected with bilirubin showed a higher blood background than 99m Tc-disofenin alone. These qualitative findings were reflected in pharmacokinetic parameters, r max and HCT. The r max was obtained from plots of time versus liver/heart activity ratios obtained in equal-area regions of interest over the heart and liver. The HCT was calculated from the hepatic clearance curve from plots of time versus liver activity. 99m Tc-MAG3-biocytin without bilirubin coinjection showed an r max of 8.9 ± 1.3 and an HCT of 399 ± 36 s. These values did not change even when 14 mg/kg of bilirubin were coinjected. By contrast, the parameters for 99m Tc-disofenin with bilirubin were significantly ( p r max was decreased from 7.9 ± 2.5 to 1.4 ± 0.2 and HCT was increased from 292 ± 32 s to 782 ± 133 s. 99m Tc-MAG3-biocytin hepatobiliary scintigraphy in mice is not affected by bilirubin coinjection, and this hepatobiliary agent appears to offer promise for estimating hepatic function in patients with high bilirubin levels.
Timing and location of rhodopsin expression in newly born rod photoreceptors in the adult teleost retina

Labeling of newly divided retinal cells with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and a rhodopsin mRNA probe revealed that rhodopsin is first expressed by new rod photoreceptors 2 days after cell birth in an adult cichlid fish. Most new cells that expressed rhodopsin had nuclei located in the vitreal half of the outer nuclear layer (ONL), lending further support to the hypothesis that movement from scleral to vitreal ONL is associated with rod differentiation.
Computer environments for design and designers

Abstract The mode of use of expert systems in design applications is significantly different from other application areas. First experience in the design domain suggests that expert systems will be employed on a design problem in a variety of functions. For example, they will be employed as consultants in generating architectural programs. They will also find an important critiquing role in the appraisal of proposals by the designer. There is evidence also that design automation, especially in design detailing, will be an important application. This paper reports on the work undertaken as part of the research programme ‘Designing and Design Knowledge in Architecture and Engineering’ (NSF Grant 98348). It investigated the application of knowledge engineering methods in a general computational environment for designers. A representative selection of four knowledge-based system tools or ‘shells’ were used in the study. The primary interest was to determine the performance of these software packages as the core element in a new genre of integrated KBDS (Knowledge-Based Design Systems). The final sections of the paper described the further work that remains to be done, including a methodology for acquisition of design knowledge.
Geochemistry and origin of early Proterozoic volcanic rocks from the Transvaal and Soutpansberg successions, South Africa

Abstract The early Proterozoic Transvaal (TR) and Soutpansberg (SB) successions in South Africa are composed of sediments and variable amounts of volcanic rocks. Volcanic rocks are chiefly tholeiitic in character and in some formations range from mafic to felsic in composition. Except for Machadodorp basalts, all volcanics exhibit Nb-Ta depletion relative to Th and REE. Machadodorp basalts are relatively depleted in incompatible elements and some exhibit flat to depleted LREE patterns like MORB. Andesites and more felsic volcanics in the TR succession can be related to associated basalts by shallow fractional crystallization. In terms of incompatible trace-element ratios, two and perhaps three mantle sources are required for TR-SB basalts. These sources may be part of an ancient subcontinental lithosphere beneath the Kaapvaal Craton which was variably enriched with a subduction-zone component during one or more episodes of arc collision prior to 3.0 Ga.
Use of two recipient lists for adults requiring heart transplantation.

Abstract Objective: An alternate (second) adult recipient list was used to match excluded potential recipients with nonstandard donor hearts that would otherwise be unused. Methods: The only absolute criterion for entering the alternate recipient list was age: 65 years old before 1998 and 70 years old after that. Group I consisted of alternates who underwent transplantation, and group II consisted of 401 contemporaneous recipients. Hearts were first offered to regularly listed patients. At least one of the following donor risks accounted for allocation to an alternate: coronary artery disease, reused transplanted heart, high-risk behavior, hepatitis seropositivity, decreased left ventricular ejection fraction, high inotropic requirement, left ventricular hypertrophy, age older than 55 years plus another risk, and small donor with no other matches. Results: Of 102 alternates, 82 were listed were because of age. After a median wait of 107 days, 62 alternates underwent transplantation. Median alternate recipient age was 67 years (vs 54 years, P P P =.04). Significant recipient predictors of early mortality on multivariable analysis (n = 463) were previous cardiac surgery (odds ratio 2.74, 95% confidence interval 1.37-5.48) and renal dysfunction (odds ratio 1.39, 1.10-176). Alternate listing did not independently predict early or late mortality. Late (>90 days) death rates per 1000 person-months were 4.3 and 3.6 for groups I and II (relative risk 1.2, 0.62-2.36). Conclusions: Use of two adult recipient lists facilitated allocation of unused donor organs. Satisfactory long-term survival supports the use of an alternate recipient list. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2003;125:49-59
THE OBLIGATION TO GIVE: A REPLY TO TANNER1

Divine giving, Kathryn Tanner suggests in her recent Jesus, Humanity and the Trinity, generates an obligation to give to the needy. This duty, she argues, is a duty to those in need, but not to God. This essay compares Tanner's proposal for the structure of human obligation with two other theological models, and suggests a revised version of her analysis. The obligation to give is reconceived as an obligation to God and self, as well as the needy neighbor. This account removes such charitable giving from the realm of purely supererogatory acts, but does not thereby eclipse the appropriateness of gratitude on the part of the recipient.
A quantitative histochemical study of lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities in the membrana granulosa of the ovulatory follicle of the rat

Using a microdensitometer, lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities were measured in the membrana granulosa of the rat ovulatory follicle. Ovaries were removed on each day of the oestrous cycle; oestrus, dioestrus-1, dioestrus-2, and proestrus; and enzyme activities measured in the membrana granulosa as a whole and in four regions within it: peripheral (PR), antral (AR), cumulus oophorus (CO) and corona radiata (CR). Throughout the cycle, lactate dehydrogenase activity was greatest in PR. On oestrus, lactate dehydrogenase activity was progressively less in AR, CO and CR. On dioestrus-1, activity was identical in AR and CO and less in CR. On dioestrus-2, activity was greater in AR than in CO or CR. By proestrus, activity was equal in AR, CO and CR. In the membrana granulosa as a whole, and in each region, lactate dehydrogenase activity declined as ovulation approached. In contrast, succinate dehydrogenase activity in the membrana granulosa as a whole and in PR was constant throughout the cycle. Activity fluctuated in the other regions. Succinate dehydrogenase activity on oestrus was greatest in PR, less in AR and CO and least in CR. On the remaining days, succinate dehydrogenase activity was greatest in PR and less but equal in the remainder of the membrana granulosa.
Definitions and nomenclature of nucleic acid structure components.

Abstract We report here recommendations for the definitions and nomenclature of nucleic acid structure parameters. These recommendations result from discussions at an EMBO Workshop on DNA Curvature and Bending held at Churchill College, Cambridge, in September 1988.
Nd:YAG laser-assisted modified Forssell's procedure for treatment of cribbing (crib-biting) in horses.

Objective— To report an neodymium:yttrium-aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser-assisted modified Forssell's surgical technique and outcome for treatment of cribbing (crib-biting) in horses. Study design— Retrospective clinical study. Animals— Ten adult horses with stereotypic cribbing behavior. Methods— Data were obtained from medical records and telephone conversations with owners, trainers, and veterinarians. Surgical technique involved an approximately 34-cm ventral median skin incision starting rostral to the larynx and extending caudally. A 10-cm section of the ventral branch of the spinal accessory nerve was removed, using an Nd:YAG laser at 25 W and continuous pulse with a contact, sculpted-fiber tip. After neurectomy, approximately 34-cm sections of the paired omohyoideus and sternothyrohyoideus muscles were removed starting 2 cm rostral to the ventral aspect of the larynx, at the basihyoid bone, using the Nd:YAG laser. Results— Median horse age was 7 years (range, 1 to 11 years). Median surgical time was 90 minutes (range, 75 to 130 minutes). Long-term outcome (range, 7 to 72 months) was available for all horses. None of the horses had cribbing behavior after surgery, and all returned to their previous use. Four horses had complications (two of which were unrelated to the surgical site), but all recovered fully. Conclusion— The successful outcome we obtained is better than reported previously using a modified Forssell's technique. Clinical relevance— Surgical treatment for cribbing by Nd: YAG laser-assisted myectomy and neurectomy resulted in an excellent prognosis for resolution of the stereotypical behavior with minimal complications.
Reopening of an obstructed third ventriculostomy: long-term success and factors affecting outcome in 215 infants.

OBJECT The role of reopening an obstructed endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) as treatment for ETV failure is not well defined. The authors studied 215 children with ETV closure who underwent successful repeat ETV to determine the indications, long-term success, and factors affecting outcome. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed the CURE Children's Hospital of Uganda database from August 2001 through December 2012, identifying 215 children with failed ETV (with or without prior choroid plexus cauterization [CPC]) who underwent reopening of an obstructed ETV stoma. Treatment survival according to sex, age at first and second operation, time to failure of first operation, etiology of hydrocephalus, prior CPC, and mode of ETV obstruction (simple stoma closure, second membrane, or cisternal obstruction from arachnoid scarring) were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier survival method. Survival differences among groups were assessed using log-rank and Wilcoxon methods and a Cox proportional hazards mode...
Repetitive nerve stimulation studies in the Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome

We compared changes in amplitude and area of surface recorded compound motor action potentials (CMAPs) during 20-Hz repetitive nerve stimulation and after maximum voluntary contraction in patients with the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), myasthenia gravis (MG), and normal controls. There was greater potentiation of CMAP amplitude after voluntary contraction than during 20-Hz stimulation in 10 of 14 LEMS patients; CMAP area increased more after exercise than during 20-Hz stimulation in all LEMS patients. Although abnormal potentiation of CMAP area and amplitude was seen in equal numbers of LEMS patients, more LEMS patients demonstrated a greater than 100% potentiation of CMAP area than of CMAP amplitude. We conclude that maximum voluntary contraction is preferable to brief 20-Hz RNS to demonstrate potentiation in LEMS because it is at least as sensitive and is less painful. Measurement of CMAP area in LEMS patients is not better than measuring the change in CMAP amplitude in demonstrating abnormal potentiation. Testing of a single hand muscle for potentiation in LEMS does not demonstrate abnormal potentiation in all LEMS patients.
Pygmy marmosets, Cebuella pygmaea, modify vocal structure in response to changed social environment

Abstract Abstract. Pygmy marmosets displayed plasticity in vocal structure over a 5-month study of nine individuals. Changes in acoustical structure of a contact call, the trill, were investigated when two unfamiliar, captive populations of monkeys were placed together in a common acoustical environment. Monkeys representing four age categories (infant, juvenile, subadult and adult) were studied in three time blocks: 9 weeks of no acoustical interaction, the first 4 weeks after contact and 6-10 weeks after contact. Analyses of variance showed that the monkeys made coextensive shifts in two frequency measures (bandwidth and peak frequency) making parallel vocal changes rather than converging on or diverging from one another's call form. Call duration initially showed distinct population differences that disappeared after acoustic contact between the populations. Comparable analyses of trills given by pygmy marmosets that did not experience novel social companions did not show significant changes. These results suggest greater vocal plasticity across age ranges than has been hitherto described for a non-human primate and suggest the importance of social factors in vocal architecture.
A clock-free chip set for high-sampling rate adaptive filters

As digital signal processing systems become larger and clock rates increase, the typical design approach using global clock synchronization will become increasingly difficult. The application of asynchronous clock-free designs to high-performance digital signal processing systems is one promising approach to alleviating this problem. To demonstrate this approach for a typical signal processing task, the system architecture and circuit design of a chip set for implementing high-rate adaptive lattice filters using the asynchronous design techniques is presented.
DOUGH CONDITIONERS FOR 12% SOY‐FORTIFIED BREAD MIXES

Dough conditioners in waxy solid and fluid forms were prepared by (1) reactions of starch or lactose with glycerol or propylene glycol; (2) alkoxylation of polyol glycosides with ethylene oxide or its mixture with propylene oxide; and (3) transesterification with methyl esters of oleic, stearic or palmitic acid or triglyceride mixtures. Dry mixes of these experimental dough conditioners were prepared by chilling and grinding the waxy conditioners to powder form and blending with defatted soy flour. Grinding of the waxy products was facilitated by incorporation of up to 10% fully hydrogenated soybean oil flakes (HSF). Fluid conditioners were added directly and blended with soy flour. When tested at the 0.5% level in 12% soy-fortified wheat bread, functional properties were the same whether the experimental dough conditioners were added to the bread formula either by dissolving in water or as a dry mix with the soy flour and wheat flour. Baking results were not affected by the incorporation of up to 10% HSF with the waxy products. The 12% soy-fortified bread containing waxy or fluid dough conditioner had substantially improved loaf volume, grain and crumb color when compared to control bread with no conditioner. FDA approval of these new dough conditioners for food use has not yet been obtained.
Patent Foramen Ovale Closure Let’s Keep the Heart in Mind

Setting aside the controversial questions of whether closing a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is indicated or effective for the prevention of recurrent stroke or the treatment of migraine headaches, what is the physiological impact of implanting a transcatheter device in the atrial septum? In this issue of Circulation , Wohrle and his colleagues address 1 aspect of this question, reporting the results of a study in which they assessed atrioventricular and semilunar valve function in 102 patients before and after transcatheter PFO closure.1 The authors evaluated valvar competence before, the day following, and 12 months after PFO closure and found no significant change in aortic regurgitation (AR) or regurgitation of the other cardiac valves. On their own, these findings might be passed off as predictable and modestly novel. Viewed in the context of a recent article by Schoen et al in Heart , however, they are noteworthy.2 Accordingly, to appreciate the study by Wohrle et al fully, it should be read as a counterpoint to the report by Schoen et al, which was a surprise to many in its description of new or increased AR in 10% of 170 patients who underwent transcatheter closure of a PFO and 9% of 70 in whom a device was placed to close an atrial septal defect.2 Article see p 3002 Before simply accepting the apparently contradictory findings of these 2 studies, however, it is worth acknowledging several basic methodological differences. The first difference is the means by which valvar regurgitation was assessed. In contrast to Schoen et al, who evaluated valvar function with transesophageal echocardiography 3, 6, and 12 months after catheterization, Wohrle et al assessed the function of the aortic and other valves with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Schoen et al graded AR according to a standard ordinal scale, …
Contemporary Applications of Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery: Technical Innovations and Limitations

Abstract Purpose Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive procedure used to transanally excise select benign and malignant tumors of the rectum. In properly selected patients, TEM can provide for decreased postoperative morbidity without compromising oncologic outcome. This report summarizes the recent literature concerning TEM, comprehensively analyzes the authors' experience with TEM, and describes recent technical innovations and indications. Patients and Methods Thirty-two consecutive patients scheduled for TEM were identified from our prospectively maintained colorectal service database. Clinicopathologic factors, postoperative complications, and oncologic outcomes were analyzed for all patients. In addition, a PubMed literature search was performed with use of the key words "transanal endoscopic microsurgery," "TEM," "rectal tumor," and "rectal cancer." Results Transanal endoscopic microsurgery was performed for rectal adenocarcinoma (n = 17; 53%), adenoma (n = 12; 38%), and carcinoid tumors (n = 3; 9%). Median tumor location was 9 cm from the anal verge (range, 3–15 cm). Of the 32 attempted TEM procedures, 27 (84%) were completed. Reasons for inability to complete TEM included narrow rectal lumen or contour of bony pelvis prohibiting passage of the operating proctoscope into the upper rectum and inability to maintain the proctoscope in the rectal lumen with carbon dioxide insufflation because of the distal location of the tumor. Innovations used in the excision of rectal tumors via TEM included the use of the harmonic scalpel, closure of the rectal defect with an extracorporeal slip knot, and a hybrid approach incorporating TEM and traditional transanal techniques. Conclusion Transanal endoscopic microsurgery provides for low morbidity and does not appear to impair oncologic outcome in properly selected patients.
Initial contact and subsequent adhesion of human neutrophils or monocytes to human aortic endothelial cells releases an endothelial intracellular calcium store.

BACKGROUND Increases in both leukocyte and endothelial cytosolic free [Ca2+] may be involved in intercellular adhesion by regulating the affinity of surface adhesion molecules or by facilitating transendothelial leukocyte migration. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of initial contact and subsequent adhesion of human neutrophils or monocytes on human aortic endothelial [Ca2+]. METHODS AND RESULTS Endothelial monolayers were loaded with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator indo 1 and exposed to isolated human peripheral blood neutrophils or to a cultured human monocyte cell line. A rapid, fourfold to fivefold increase in endothelial cytosolic [Ca2+] occurred within seconds of leukocyte contact. No increase in endothelial [Ca2+] occurred on contact of 18.25-microns inert microspheres, isolated red blood cells, or suspensions of cultured human aortic endothelial cells. In experiments performed on monolayers grown in 1-mm2 capillary flow tubes, the increase in endothelial cytosolic [Ca2+] on initial leukocyte contact was found to be related to the subsequent resistance to leukocyte detachment during exposure to arterial levels of shear stress (13.4 dyne.cm-2). The increase in endothelial cytosolic [Ca2+] during leukocyte contact was not inhibited in Ca(2+)-free buffer but was abolished by prior depletion of an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store by thapsigargin. Pretreatment of neutrophils with R15.7, a specific monoclonal antibody to the adhesion protein CD-18, inhibited the increase in endothelial cytosolic [Ca2+] on neutrophil contact. CONCLUSIONS Initial contact leading to subsequent adhesion of human leukocytes to human aortic endothelial cells releases an endothelial intracellular Ca2+ store. This may, in part, be mediated by specific adhesion proteins and may in turn regulate the affinity of surface adhesion molecules or facilitate transendothelial migration of leukocytes.
Nonlinearly coupled double chain systems

We report here on numerical studies of a pair of linearly coupled mass chains with nonlinear φ4 coupling between the two chains. General implications for double chain systems known to exist in nature such as DNA and RNA are discussed.
Enhancing literary understandings through young adult fiction

Young adult literature can be used to enhance students' understanding of literary techniques and concepts, providing a “transition” between children's and adult fiction. Two young adult novels—The Pigman andI am the Cheese—are used to illustrate the use of young adult novels to teach about literary elements such as tome, point of view, characterization, motif, symbolism, style, and structure.
Effect of undergraduate college major on performance in medical school.

PURPOSE: To determine whether choice of college major has any effect on performance in medical school. METHOD: The author analyzed data for 406 students enrolled in a combined baccalaureate-MD program at Brown University School of Medicine who had matriculated in medical school from 1989 to 1997, de
Morbidity associated with laparoscopic repair of suprapubic hernias.

Abstract Background Laparoscopic suprapubic hernia repair (LSHR) is frequently a technically difficult procedure. This is often due to extensive adhesions from multiple previous operations, the necessary wide pelvic dissection, and adequate mesh coverage with transfascial suture fixation. The aim of the current study was to document the complications and morbidity associated with the repair of suprapubic hernias. Methods A retrospective review of patients with complex suprapubic ventral hernias undergoing laparoscopic repair between 2003 and 2007 at 2 university-based practices by 1 surgeon at each facility was conducted. The operative techniques were similar and included dissection into the space of Retzius to mobilize the dome of the bladder, intraperitoneal onlay of mesh using a barrier mesh, careful tack fixation to the pubic bone and Cooper's ligaments, and extensive transfascial suture fixation of the mesh. Results A total of 47 patients were reviewed, 29 women and 18 men, with a mean age of 54 years. Patients averaged 3.5 previous abdominal surgeries (SD ±2.3) and had a mean body mass index (BMI) of 35.1 (SD ±7.5). Previous ventral hernia repairs had been performed in 57% of patients. Average defect size was 139.8 cm2 (SD ±126) and average mesh size was 453.8 (SD ±329.0), with an average hernia-to-mesh ratio of 3.2. Median length of stay was 3 days with a mean follow-up of 2.6 months (SD ±3.1). There were 18 complications (38%): symptomatic seroma (n = 4), prolonged ileus (n = 2), chronic pain (n = 2), postoperative urinary retention (n = 2), enterotomy (n = 1), intraoperative bladder injury (n = 1), postoperative urinary tract infection (n = 1), mesh infection (n = 1), rapid ventricular rate (n = 1), small bowel obstruction (n = 1), pulmonary embolism (n = 1), and pneumonia (n = 1). One patient required conversion to open ventral hernia repair, no injury was identified. Recurrence occurred in 3 patients (6.3%). The mechanisms of recurrence included reherniation at the level of the pubic tubercle, a lateral mesh recurrence in a patient with a high BMI and small abdominal excursion, and in a pregnant patient who developed a fixation suture hernia. Conclusions Laparoscopic suprapubic hernia repair is safe and effective with a relatively low recurrence rate, considering the complexity of the repair.
Atomic semantics of nonatomic programs

Abstract We argue that it is possible, and sometimes useful, to reason about nonatomic programs within the conventional atomic model of concurrency.
A new global operator for two-particle delta functions

A new type of global operator to be used in evaluating matrix elements of two-particle delta functions is introduced. It is based, like the Trivedi one-particle operator, on the Poisson equation and is easier to apply than the method of Hiller, Sucher and Feinberg. After a test in the helium isoelectronic sequence, the new method is applied successfully to the interesting problem of hyperfine structure in muonic helium.
Polar seas research in marine chemistry

Marine Chemistry research was conducted in the summer of 1971 and 1972 in the Greenland Sea and in December of 1972 in the Ross Sea. Techniques used to determine trace gases (carbon monoxide, Freon-11, methane) and mercury in sea water, sea ice and snow, and in the polar atmosphere are discussed. Methods for studying polar marine aerosols are outlined and the use of satellite imagery for the construction of air mass trajectories near the Antarctic continent is described.Results of the investigations are included.
Measuring the economic impact of human resource programs

Methods that allow estimating the dollar impact of human resource programs are now available to Industrial/Organizational (I/O) psychologists and other human resource professionals. Dollar estimates running into the tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars (and higher) have been established for various recruitment, selection and training programs across a wide variety of white and blue collar jobs. Most of this work has gone largely unnoticed by mainstream business communities due in large part to the inability of psychologists and other human resource professionals to communicate their research findings in a manner that is clear and credible to organizational decision makers and consistent with typical business conventions. It is concluded that I/O psychologists and other technical human resource professionals should place more emphasis on adequately communicating cost-benefit estimates to managers and other organizational decision makers, and that managers and organizational decision makers should routinely request such estimates from internal professional staff members and/or outside consulting firms.
Purification and characterization of NAD-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase from Dictyostelium discoideum

Abstract Isocitrate dehydrogenase ( threo - d s -isocitrate: NAD oxidoreductase (decar☐ylating) EC 1.1.1.41) from Dictyostelium dicoideum was purified 161-fold. The purified enzyme was NAD specific and required Mn 2+ for activity. Isocitrate consumption and 2-oxoglutarate and NADH production were stoichiometric; no NADH oxidase or glutamate dehydrogenase activities were detected. The pH optimum range for activity was pH 7.5–8.5. Reductive car☐ylation of 2-oxoglutarate with NADH could not be demonstrated. Lineweaver - Burk plots of data from initial velocity studies were linear. There was no evidence of allosteric control by reported effectors (AMP, ADP, citrate) of isocitrate dehydrogenase activity. The reaction was inhibited by NADH. The inhibition by NADH was competitive when either isocitrate or NAD was the variable substrate. 2-Oxoglutarate was not inhibitory at concentrations below 4 m m . The Michaelis constant ( K m ) and dissociation constant ( K ib ) for isocitrate were 0.16 m m ; and K m and dissociation constant ( K ia ) for NAD were 0.34 m m . The inhibition constant for NADH was 0.02 m m . The data are consistent with a rapid equilibrium random bi-bi reaction mechanism (Cleland nomenclature). The NAD-linked isocitrate dehydrogenase activity was also demonstrated in crude extracts of isolated mitochondria.
PROBLEMS WITH LEAD (Pb) SCREENING IN SICKLE CELL DISEASE (SSD)

Serious Pb toxicity in 4 children with sickle cell anemia (SS) with blood Pb 190μg/dl do not fit the numerical classification. Pb/EDTA mobilization was done on 6 patients with FEP > 60μg/dl and blood lead 60μg/dl can be associated with an increased Pb burden despite a blood Pb less than 40μg/dl.
A densitometer for analytical ultracentrifuge films utilizing the Gilford linear transport.

Abstract A scanning densitometer for ultracentrifuge films, based on the Gilford linear transport and recording spectrophotometer, is described. The width of the slit image formed on the plane of the film can be made as small as 15 μ The transport and photometric systems are sufficiently accurate that repeated tracings of the same film agree within the thickness of the pen line. Three scanning speeds are provided. The spectrophotometer remains available for its ordinary uses, as does the linear transport without dismounting the components from the optical bench rods. The cost is very moderate.
Techno-Security in an Age of Globalization: Perspectives from the Pacific Rim

This text assesses the changing dimensions of national security in a world where business and technology issues have moved to centre stage, and traditional military security issues seem to have receded due to the end of the Cold War.
Antisocial personality disorder in people with co-occurring severe mental illness and substance use disorders: clinical, functional, and family relationship correlates

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is an important correlate of substance abuse severity in the addiction population and in people with co-occurring serious mental illness and addiction. Because family members often provide vital supports to relatives with co-occurring disorders, this study explored the correlates of ASPD in 103 people with co-occurring disorders (79% schizophrenia-schizoaffective, 21% bipolar disorder) in high contact with relatives participating in a family intervention study. Clients with ASPD were more likely to have bipolar disorder and to have been married, but less likely to have graduated from high school. ASPD was associated with more severe drug abuse and depression, worse functioning, and less planning-based social problem solving. The relatives of clients with ASPD also reported less planning-based problem solving, worse attitudes towards the client, and worse mental health functioning. Client ASPD was associated with less long-term exposure to family intervention. The findings suggest that clients with ASPD in addition to co-occurring disorders are a particularly disadvantaged group with greater illness severity, more impaired functioning, and more strained family relationships. These difficulties may pose special challenges to delivering family intervention for this group.
Endoventricular pocket repair of type I myocardial rupture after mitral valve replacement: a new technique using pericardial patch, Teflon felt, and BioGlue

Left ventricular (LV) rupture is an infrequent but potentially lethal complication of mitral valve replacement and repair. We report the case of an 82-year-old man who underwent mitral valve replacement and the repair of an atrial septal defect. Both valve leaflets were excised and the annulus was extensively decalcified, followed by the implantation of a bioprosthetic valve. LV rupture was diagnosed after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). CPB was resumed and the bioprosthetic valve was removed. The patient then underwent a unique repair using a pericardial patch, Teflon felt (Meadox Medical Inc, Oakland, NJ), and BioGlue (CryoLife Inc, Kennesaw, GA). A second valve was implanted with a successful outcome.
Porous Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Alginate Gel Hybrid Construct for Neocartilage Formation Using Human Nasoseptal Cells

Background Limited options exist for the restoration of craniofacial cartilage. Autologous tissue or porous polyethylene is currently used for nasal and auricular reconstruction. Both options are associated with drawbacks, including donor site morbidity and implant extrusion. Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is a non-degradable flexible biocompatible polymer than can be engineered to mimic the properties of cartilage. The goal of this study was to engineer a biosynthetic hybrid construct using a combination of PVA-alginate hydrogels and human nasal septum chondrocytes. Materials and Methods Chondrocytes isolated from human nasal septum cartilage were expanded and mixed with 2% sodium alginate hydrogel. The chondrocyte-alginate mix was injected into a non-degradable porous PVA hydrogel, creating biosynthetic constructs. A group of these constructs were implanted into the subcutaneous environment of nude mice, while the other group was cultured in a spinner flask bioreactor system for 10 d and then implanted. After 6 wk in vivo, the histologic, biochemical, and biomechanical properties were examined. Results Histological analysis demonstrated sulfated glycosaminoglycans and deposition of collagen type II in constructs from both groups. Constructs cultured in the bioreactor system prior in vivo implantation demonstrated higher levels of DNA, glycosaminoglycans, and hydroxyproline. An increase of 22% in the compressive strength of the engineered constructs exposed to the bioreactor was also observed. Conclusion A novel porous PVA-alginate gel hybrid was used to successfully engineer human cartilage in vivo. A 10-d period of bioreactor culturing increased levels of DNA, glycosaminoglycans, hydroxyproline, and the compressive modulus of the constructs.
Can Empirical Demand Models Assist in CON Comparative Reviews? A Case Study in Florida

Certificate-of-Need (CON) programs for new hospital construction are intended to foster the best selection among competing hospital applications, given demands for hospital care in the community. Yet, the merits of CON depend in part on the quality of the comparative review process. This article examines a case study in Florida to illustrate the utility of empirical evaluations using patient choice models. I estimate such models to show how patients would respond to a change in hospital choices. By simulating the welfare effects of the proposed hospitals, I can further predict how prices of hospital care differ by applicant. Results suggest that empirical analysis using data on patient choice of hospitals may better inform the review process. At the same time, however, it may not give a unique ranking without additional analysis of the fixed costs of proposed services in the context of existing marketwide capacity.
Effect of surface polarity on water contact angle and interfacial hydration structure.

We perform molecular dynamics simulations of water in the presence of hydrophobic/hydrophilic walls at T = 300 K and P = 0 GPa. For the hydrophilic walls, we use a hydroxylated silica model introduced in previous simulations [Lee, S. H.; Rossky, P. J. J. Chem. Phys. 1994, 100, 3334. Giovambattista, N.; Rossky, P. J.; Debenedetti, P. G.; Phys. Rev. E 2006, 73, 041604.]. By rescaling the physical partial atomic charges by a parameter 0 ≤ k ≤ 1, we can continuously transform the hydrophilic walls (hydroxylated silica, k = 1) into hydrophobic apolar surfaces (k = 0). From a physical point of view, k is the normalized magnitude of a surface dipole moment, and thus it quantifies the polarity of the surface. We calculate the contact angle of water for 0 ≤ k ≤ 1. We find that, at least for the present homogeneous, atomically flat, and defect-free surface model, the magnitude of the surface dipole correlates with the contact angle in a one-to-one correspondence. In particular, we find that polar surfaces with 0 < ...
Agent-based workbench for on-the-fly sensor-data analysis

The emergent popularity of wireless sensor networks and cloud-computing services brings us new opportunities of integrating them for performing on-the-fly sensor-data analysis with as many computing resources as needed. Yet, users are required to integrate sensor networks and cloud services manually, and even to redesign their data-analyzing software for its parallelization. To alleviate these problems, we are developing an agent-based workbench that consists of three independent but interlinked software tools: (1) the AgentTeamwork-Lite job coordinator, (2) the MASS middleware library, and (3) the Connector elastic data channel. AgentTeamwork-Lite has each computing node exchange resource information with neighbors, and deploys a job with a mobile agent that searches for idle nodes. MASS allows programmers to view their applications as a series of interaction among autonomic computation entities that are dynamically mapped to a cluster of multi-core machines. Connector separates descriptions of network address, communication protocol, and data-sampling conditions from applications. It automatically streams and hands off sensor data to migrating jobs. This paper presents an overview of our workbench and its applicability to orchard business.
Analyzing the decentralization of health systems in developing countries: decision space, innovation and performance

Decentralization has long been advocated as a desirable process for improving health sys- tems. Nevertheless, we still lack a suAcient analytical framework for systematically studying how decen- tralization can achieve this objective. We do not have adequate means of analyzing the three key elements of decentralization: (1) the amount of choice that is transferred from central institutions to in- stitutions at the periphery of health systems, (2) what choices local oAcials make with their increased discretion and (3) what eAect these choices have on the performance of the health system. This article proposes a framework of analysis that can be used to design and evaluate the decentralization of health systems. It starts from the assumption that decentralization is not an end in itself but rather should be designed and evaluated for its ability to achieve broader objectives of health reform: equity, eAciency, quality and financial soundness. Using a ''principal agent'' approach as the basic framework, but incor- porating insights from public administration, local public choice and social capital approaches, the article presents a decision space approach which defines decentralization in terms of the set of functions and degrees of choice that formally are transferred to local oAcials. The approach also evaluates the incentives that central government can oAer to local decision-makers to encourage them to achieve health objectives. It evaluates the local government characteristics that also influence decision-making and implementation at the local level. Then it determines whether local oAcials innovate by making choices that are diAerent from those directed by central authorities. Finally, it evaluates whether the local choices have improved the performance of the local health system in achieving the broader health objectives. Examples from Colombia are used to illustrate the approach. The framework will be used to analyze the experience of decentralization in a series of empirical studies in Latin America. The results of these studies should suggest policy recommendations for adjusting decision space and incentives so that localities make decisions that achieve the objectives of health reform. # 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Characterization of Sialyltransferase in Noncancerous and Neoplastic Human Liver Tissue

When compared to uninvolved adjacent tissue, metastatic tumors in human liver appear to have significantly reduced sialytransferase activity. No significant kinetic differences (Michaelis constants, thermostability, and pH optima) between noncancerous and cancerous tissue sialytransferase were found. Mixing experiments between cancerous and noncancerous tissues indicated that inhibitors of sialytransferase activity were present in cancerous tissue. Subsequent experiments demonstrated increased levels of bound sialic acid in the tumor tissues. Inasmuch as futuin, a sialoglycoprotein, inhibits sialyltransferase activity, the increased levels of bound sialic acid in tumor tissue may be responsible for the reduced enzyme activity in these tissues.