cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of increasing carrion biomass on food webs

Abstract Carrion has well-documented effects on ecosystem processes, but how those effects change with increasing biomass, particularly with extreme amounts of carrion occurring during mass mortality events, is relatively unstudied. Traditional food web theory predicts basal resource availability is linked to bottom-up effects, which may support higher primary consumer biomass and food web diversity. Recycling efficiency increases with primary consumer diversity through niche differentiation and facilitation or potentially a sampling effect of having more species and functional groups. As carrion biomass increases, however, the carrion food web expands to include a more diverse community of secondary consumers that prey upon carrion obligates. With increases in vertical diversity of food webs, basal resource depletion generally decreases because primary consumers are preyed upon. Here we present empirical and previous literature evidence that indicates ecological interactions indeed change in response to increasing carrion biomass by increasing primary and secondary consumer diversity of species participating in carrion recycling. Our observations also indicate that rare and novel interactions emerge with extreme amounts of carrion. We pair previous literature with our observations to develop a theoretical basis for developing hypotheses and predictions concerning the relationship between carrion food webs and increasing biomass.
Quantification and Confirmation of Fifteen Carbamate Pesticide Residues by Multiple Reaction Monitoring and Enhanced Product Ion Scan Modes via LC-MS/MS QTRAP System.

In this research, fifteen carbamate pesticide residues were systematically analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry on a QTRAP 5500 system in both multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and enhanced product ion (EPI) scan modes. The carbamate pesticide residues were extracted from a variety of samples by QuEChERS method and separated by a popular reverse phase column (Waters BEH C18). Except for the current conformation criteria including selected ion pairs, retention time and relative intensities from MRM scan mode, the presence of carbamate pesticide residues in diverse samples, especially some doubtful cases, could also be confirmed by the matching of carbamate pesticide spectra via EPI scan mode. Moreover, the fragmentation routes of fifteen carbamates were firstly explained based on the mass spectra obtained by a QTRAP system; the characteristic fragment ion from a neutral loss of CH3NCO (−57 Da) could be observed. The limits of detection and quantification for fifteen carbamates were 0.2–2.0 μg kg−1 and 0.5–5.0 μg kg−1, respectively. For the intra- (n = 3) and inter-day (n = 15) precisions, the recoveries of fifteen carbamates from spiked samples ranged from 88.1% to 118.4%, and the coefficients of variation (CVs) were all below 10%. The method was applied to pesticide residues detection in fruit, vegetable and green tea samples taken from local markets, in which carbamates were extensively detected but all below the standard of maximum residue limit.
The Effects of Gender-Blind Sexism on Rape Myth Acceptance: Results From a Nationally Representative Study.

This study uses a diverse sample that is nationally representative with regards to race and gender (N = 2,000) in an attempt to replicate and confirm Stoll, Lilley, and Pinter’s previous finding that gender-blind sexism is correlated with rape myth acceptance. As in the original study, we hypothesized that higher scores on the Gender-Blind Sexism Inventory (GBSI) would be predictive of higher scores on Stoll et al.’s Rape Myth Acceptance Scale (RMA). Gender-blind sexism builds on previous models of contemporary sexism such as hostile and benevolent sexism, modern sexism, and neosexism. It also represents an extension of racialized social system theory that explores the ways contemporary sexism operates in an era of post-racial and post-gender politics via four frames: abstract liberalism, naturalization, cultural sexism, and minimization of sexism. Unlike in the original study, however, our sample also allowed us to control for scores on the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory (ASI), the Modern Sexism Scale (MS),...
Differentially private posterior summaries for linear regression coefficients

In Bayesian regression modeling, often analysts summarize inferences using posterior probabilities and quantiles, such as the posterior probability that a coefficient exceeds zero or the posterior median of that coefficient. However, with potentially unbounded outcomes and explanatory variables, regression inferences based on typical prior distributions can be sensitive to values of individual data points. Thus, releasing posterior summaries of regression coefficients can result in disclosure risks. In this article, we propose some differentially private algorithms for reporting posterior probabilities and posterior quantiles of linear regression coefficients. The algorithms use the general strategy of subsample and aggregate, a technique that requires randomly partitioning the data into disjoint subsets, estimating the regression within each subset, and combining results in ways that satisfy differential privacy. We illustrate the performance of some of the algorithms using repeated sampling studies. The non-private versions also can be used for Bayesian inference with big data in non-private settings.
On Finer Control of Information Flow in LSTMs

Since its inception in 1995, the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) architecture for recurrent neural networks has shown promising performance, sometimes state-of-art, for various tasks. Aiming at achieving constant error flow through hidden units, LSTM introduces a complex unit called a memory cell, in which gates are adopted to control the exposure/isolation of information flowing in, out and back to itself. Despite its widely acknowledged success, in this paper, we propose a hypothesis that LSTMs may suffer from an implicit functional binding of information exposure/isolation for the output and candidate computation, i.e., the output gate at time \(t-1\) is not only in charge of the information flowing out of a cell as the response to the external environment, but also controls the information flowing back to the cell for the candidate computation, which is often the only source of nonlinear combination of input at time t and previous cell state at time \(t-1\) for cell memory updates. We propose Untied Long Short Term Memory (ULSTM) as a solution to the above problem. We test our model on various tasks, including semantic relatedness prediction, language modeling and sentiment classification. Experimental results indicate that our proposed model is capable to at least partially solve the problem and outperform LSTM for all these tasks. Code related to this paper is available at: https://github.com/HangGao/ULSTM.git.
Extortion or cost-reduction: why do firms pay bribes?

Do firms bribe government officials to reduce their costs or do bribe payments arise because of extortion from government officials? Using three of the Business Environment and Enterprise Performance surveys of firms across several countries and employing various estimation methodologies, this paper considers how bribery is associated with the potential for the firm to find honest government officials. If firms that report greater opportunities to find honest officials pay lower bribes, then this is a sign that bribes come from extortion because the presence of such officials should not matter for firms wanting to pay bribes to reduce costs. I generally find evidence that bribes arise due to extortion although results somewhat weaken in the latest survey.
ENHANCED S-CONE SYNDROME: VISUAL FUNCTION, CROSS-SECTIONAL IMAGING, AND CELLULAR STRUCTURE WITH ADAPTIVE OPTICS OPHTHALMOSCOPY.

PURPOSE To describe in detail the phenotype of a patient with enhanced S-cone syndrome. METHODS We describe a 13-year-old boy who presented with blurred vision, vitreous cells, cystoid macular edema refractory to steroid treatment, and a negative uveitic workup. The patient underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, full-field electroretinograms (ffERG), automatic static perimetry and multimodal imaging with spectral domain optical coherence tomography, and adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO). RESULTS Spectral domain optical coherence tomography demonstrated cystoid macular edema and a hyperthick, delaminated midperipheral retina. Fluorescein angiography did not demonstrate macular leakage. Rod-mediated ffERGs were undetectable, and there was a supernormal response to short-wavelength stimuli compared with photopically matched longer wavelengths of light consistent with enhanced S-cone syndrome. Gene screening was positive for compound heterozygous mutations NR2E3: a known (c.119-2 A>C) and a novel (c.119-1G>A) mutation. By perimetry, sensitivities were normal or above normal for short-wavelength stimuli; there was no detectable rod-mediated vision. AOSLO demonstrated higher than normal cone densities in the perifoveal retina and evidence for smaller outer segment cone diameters. CONCLUSION Evidence for supernumerary cones (at least twice the normal complement) by AOSLO and spectral domain optical coherence tomography was associated with supernormal S-cone sensitivities and electroretinogram responses confirming previous in vivo findings in postmortem human specimens. Smaller than normal cones in enhanced S-cone syndrome may represent "hybrid" photoreceptors analogous to the rd7/rd7 murine model of the disease.
Arterial Tonometry in the Classroom.

The study of hemodynamic physiology utilizing traditional methods presents many challenges and limitations to educators. The goal of the educator is to provide the student with an adequate understanding of the basic hemodynamic anatomy and physiology governing blood flow, cardiac cycle and associated Korotkoff sounds, and the pathophysiology of vessel-related diseases. Several teachable moments reinforcing hemodynamic concepts are often overlooked when using traditional methods. The incorporation of arterial tonometry seeks to improve these shortcomings by offering a broader perspective of vascular physiology and introducing unique pathologies of the vasculature such as arterial stiffness and endothelial disorders.
Fiduciary Law and the Preservation of Trust in Business Relationships

This chapter explores the role of mandatory fiduciary obligations in preserving trust between business parties. Because contracts are inevitably incomplete, after investment there is always a risk of opportunism. While the parties could try to draft a more detailed agreement prohibiting various forms of opportunism, the very act of haggling over such protections may signal distrust, eliciting costly reactions (defensive measures/hedging/lack of intrinsic motivation) in the counterparty. In the absence of fiduciary protections, a vulnerable party may decide to forgo important protections against opportunism, not because such protections are suboptimal or hard to specify ex ante but because bargaining for them would signal distrust. By contrast, state-imposed fiduciary obligations remove the invocation of distrust by either party to the agreement. We further observe that while fiduciary protections can help prevent distrust among a small number of contracting parties, fiduciary protections may prove inadequate in some settings, especially in addressing horizontal conflicts between beneficiaries. The chapter concludes by observing that the limits of contract and fiduciary law leave a residual zone of vulnerability in which trust and other mechanisms of risk reduction play a significant role.
Musical Topoi in Brahms’s 7 Fantasien, Op. 116

A fair amount of literature has been published on the use of musical topics in the works of eighteenth-century composers, with the writings of Leonard Ratner and Wendy Allanbrook among the most inf...
Are We Overstating the Risk of Priapism With Oral Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors

Abstract Background Priapism is an adverse drug reaction (ADR) associated with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Aim The purpose of this study was to identify the true data about PDE5i-associated priapism to properly counsel patients. Methods We queried the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Reporting System Public Dashboard to identify cases of drug-induced priapism among medications commonly associated with priapism. Next, a systematic review and analysis of publications describing cases of drug-induced priapism were carried out. Outcomes The main outome of this study is incidence of PDE5i-induced priapism. Results We found 411 cases of drug-induced priapism secondary to Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra reported to the Food and Drug Administration since 1998. Compared with PDE5is, drug-induced priapism was 2.6 (n = 1,065) and 2.0 times (n = 817) more commonly reported for second-generation antipsychotics and the antidepressant/sleep aid trazodone, respectively. A total of 240 manuscripts describing cases of drug-induced priapism in patients with non-sickle cell disease were identified. PDE5i-induced priapism accounted for only 2.9% (n = 7) of drug-induced priapism cases. Second-generation antipsychotics (33.8%), a group of “other” medications (11.3%), and alpha-adrenergic antagonists (8.8%) accounted for the greatest percentage of published drug-induced priapism cases. Clinical Implications Extensive counseling about priapism as an ADR for PDE5i for the routine treatment of erectile dysfunction is likely unnecessary. Strengths & Limitations The study used national-level data to identify drug-induced priapism cases. Reported and published cases of drug-induced priapism may reflect more severe and atypical cases of this ADR, which may have underestimated our results. Conclusion PDE5i-induced priapism is a rare event. Drug-induced priapism should be attributed to a wider spectrum of medications that can cause this condition. Rezaee ME, Gross MS. Are We Overstating the Risk of Priapism With Oral Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors? J Sex Med 2020;17:1579–1582.
Sub-wavelength-width Space-Time Surface Plasmon Polaritons on Unpatterned Surfaces

We propose propagation-invariant pulsed surface plasmon polaritons at unpatterned metal-dielectric interfaces that are localized in all dimensions (transverse and longitudinal) and yet maintain sub-wavelength-widths by incorporating judicious spatiotemporal spectral correlations in the optical field.
The effect of age when initiating anti-seizure medication therapy on fragility fracture risk for children with epilepsy.

Abstract Background Anti-seizure medication (ASM) is necessary to manage epilepsy and often prescribed to children and adolescents, but can lead to iatrogenic effects, including bone fragility by altering bone metabolism. Disrupting bone metabolism during crucial developmental stages could have a lasting adverse effect on bone health. Therefore, the objective of this propensity score-matched, observational cohort study was to determine if age when initiating ASM therapy across developmental stages (from pre- to post-puberty) for individuals with epilepsy was associated with an increased risk of fragility fracture. Methods Data from 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2018 were extracted from Optum Clinformatics® Data Mart. Children aged 4–21 years at baseline with at least 5 years of continuous health plan enrollment were included to allow for a 1-year baseline and 4-years of follow-up. The primary group of interest included new ASM users (i.e., treatment naive) with epilepsy. The comparison group, no ASM users without epilepsy, was matched 1:14 to new ASM users with epilepsy for demographics and baseline fracture. To provide a proxy for developmental stages, age was categorized as 4–6 (pre-puberty), 7–10 (early puberty), 11–13 (mid-puberty), 14–17 (late puberty), and 18–21 (post-puberty). Crude incidence rate (IR; per 1000 person years) and IR ratio (IRR and 95% confidence intervals [CI]) were estimated for non-trauma fracture (NTFx) for up to 4-years of follow-up. Results Prior to stratifying by age group, the crude NTFx IR (95% CI) of 20.6 (16.5–24.8) for new ASM users with epilepsy (n = 1205) was 34% higher (IRR = 1.34; 95% CI = 1.09–1.66) than the crude NTFx IR (95% CI) of 15.4 (14.4–16.3) for no ASM users without epilepsy. The groups exhibited a different pattern of NTFx incidence with age, with new ASM users showing a more dramatic increase and peaking at 11–13 years, then decreasing with the older age groups. The crude IR and IRR were elevated for new ASM users with epilepsy compared to no ASM users without epilepsy for each age group (10% to 55% higher), but was only statistically significant for 11–13 years (IRR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.02–2.36). Conclusions Children with epilepsy initiating ASM therapy may be vulnerable to fragility fracture, especially when initiating ASM around the time of puberty. Clinicians should be aware of this age-related association and consider age-appropriate adjunct bone fragility therapies.
To Be from Another: Nature, Sexual Difference, and the Gift of Existence

This essay explores the relationship between nature, being, and sexual difference and argues that adequate understandings of each rise and fall with each other. The case is advanced that human sexual difference must be understood in terms of a union of modally distinct persons whose union neither destroys nor diminishes their alterity but rather augments it. Human sexual union is thus seen as like the intellectual union of knower of known. The unique and generative distinction that constitutes sexual difference provides a window through which one might look more deeply into nature as constituted of the fruitful union of essence and the Origin of all essence. Hence, the meaning of human sexual difference is found to be bound with the right understanding of nature and to open vistas that reveal the nature of being itself.
Association of a Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Program With Reduced Hospitalizations in Cancer Patients With COVID-19.

PURPOSE:The goal of this study was to assess the impact of an interdisciplinary remote patient monitoring (RPM) program on clinical outcomes and acute care utilization in cancer patients with COVID...
Compute-Capable Block RAMs for Efficient Deep Learning Acceleration on FPGAs

The density of FPGA on-chip memory has been continuously increasing with modern FPGAs having thousands of block RAMs (BRAMs) distributed across their reconfigurable fabric. These distributed BRAMs can provide a tremendous amount of on-chip bandwidth for efficient acceleration of data-intensive applications. In this work, we propose enhancing the ubiquitous FPGA BRAMs with in-memory compute-capabilities. As a result, BRAMs can act as normal storage units or their bitlines can be re-purposed as SIMD lanes executing bit-serial arithmetic operations. Our proposed architectural change results in 1.6× and 2.3× increase in the peak multiply-accumulate throughput of a large Stratix 10 FPGA, at a minimal cost of only 1.8% increase in the FPGA die size and no change to the BRAM’s interface to the programmable routing. Then, we present RIMA, a reconfigurable in-memory accelerator architecture for deep learning (DL) inference. RIMA exploits the proposed compute-capable BRAMs and the FPGA’s reconfigurability to achieve 1.25× and 3× higher performance compared to the state-of-the-art Brainwave DL soft processor for 8-bit integer and block floating-point precisions, respectively. In addition, RIMA implemented on a Stratix 10 FPGA enhanced with compute-capable BRAMs can achieve an order of magnitude higher performance compared to a same-generation GPU.
Intrahepatic Cholestasis, Refractory Epilepsy, Skeletal Dysplasia, Endocrine Failure, and Dysmorphic Features in a Child With a Monoallelic 2q24-32.2 Deletion Encompassing ABCB11.

We report a newborn who presented with multiple limb and facial anomalies, endocrine disorders, and progressively worsening low-GGT cholestasis. A liver biopsy revealed hepatocellular cholestasis w...
2 Geometrical Optics

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the geometrical optics. The chapter discusses the different type of optical systems. Optical systems are used to collect light from a variety of sources, transport information, and direct it to a large assortment of detectors. Optical systems often employ the use of cylindrical and toric surfaces. Spectacle lenses and anamorphic projection lenses are examples. The chapter deals with the basic tools needed to evaluate and to design optical systems. The basic laws of geometrical optics and image formation is discussed, A combination of refractive and reflective components is shown. In the design, the elements are considered as rotationally symmetric. The prism is used to provide an erect image and to direct viewing from the object to the observer. Many systems use gratings or dispersive prisms. Rotating polygons or holograms for laser scanners are becoming common in modern instruments. Quite often the systems are used over a wide spectral range, so mirrors are used rather than refractive elements. Aspheric surfaces are common in mirror systems. Mirror systems are usually something to avoid unless the problem requires large optics or a wide spectral range.
Abstract T MP70: Dense Households and Weak Social Networks Increase Risk of Recurrent Vascular Events

Background: Social isolation is associated with increased vascular events post stroke, but the role of living arrangements versus social networks on stroke outcomes has not been well explored. We aim to characterize these associations overall and by race-ethnicity. Methods: The Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment (SWIFT) study tested a stroke preparedness intervention on arrival times for stroke/TIA recurrence to the ED. Stroke/TIA patients able to consent were prospectively recruited and randomized. Baseline data collection included demographics, medical history, socioeconomic status (SES), and social support networks. Living arrangements were categorized as living alone, living with one or 2 people, or living with three or more people (dense household). Weak social support networks defined as 4 or less family or friend visits in past week. Participants were followed for a mean of 2.9 years. An outcome of vascular event was defined as stroke, TIA, MI, or death post enrollment. Multivariate logistic regression models examined the relationship between vascular outcomes, living arrangements and social support networks adjusting for demographics, health and SES. Results: Between 2005 and 2009 1193 participants were enrolled: mean age 63 years; 51% Hispanics, 26% whites, and 17% Blacks; 50% female; and 42% < high school education. Over 24% lived alone, 23% lived with spouse/partner only, and 21% lived in dense households. In adjusted logistic models, post stroke vascular events were associated with dense households [RR 1.5 (95% CI: 1.1 - 1.9)], and weak family networks [RR 1.9 (95% CI: 1.4 - 2.8)]. Stratifying by race-ethnicity, the results remained significant for Hispanics where dense households [RR 1.9 (95% CI: 1.3 - 2.6)], weak family networks [RR 2.8 (95% CI: 1.5 - 5.1)], and weak friend networks [RR 1.5 (95% CI: 1.0 - 2.5)] increased vascular events post stroke. Conclusion: Living in dense households can increase risk of vascular events post stroke, while stronger social support networks can decrease this risk especially among Hispanic stroke survivors. Future research is needed to explore the mechanism of these associations and to identify possible racial/ethnic tailored interventions based on living arrangements and social networks.
Environmental informatics - long-lead flood forecasting using Bayesian neural networks

Neural networks (NNs) are especially useful in exploratory data analysis to uncover and, or elucidate empirical relationships among data. Parameter estimation, the so-called "training" of neural networks is a variation of standard maximum likelihood estimation, whereby the optimal set of model parameters (the NN weights) maximizes the fit to the calibration (training) data set. In our previous applications of neural networks in hydrometeorology, we focused on the development of complex architectures of neural networks adapted to the characteristics of the available data (multisensor, multiresolution mix of ground-based and satellite observations). These architectures consist of large structures of simpler networks built to embody clearly defined hypothesis of functional relationships that are consistent with the underlying physical processes (rainfall and flood forecasting, wind, temperature and moisture profiles in the atmosphere, temporal evolution of cloud and storm morphologies). One challenge we have not addressed previously is how to quantify the uncertainty in NN-based forecasts or estimates. We begin to address this question through the use of Bayesian neural networks (BNNs) for long-lead flood forecasting (18-hours).
RNA structural analysis by evolving SHAPE chemistry

RNA is central to the flow of biological information. From transcription to splicing, RNA localization, translation, and decay, RNA is intimately involved in regulating every step of the gene expression program, and is thus essential for health and understanding disease. RNA has the unique ability to base-pair with itself and other nucleic acids to form complex structures. Hence the information content in RNA is not simply its linear sequence of bases, but is also encoded in complex folding of RNA molecules. A general chemical functionality that all RNAs have is a 2'-hydroxyl group in the ribose ring, and the reactivity of the 2'-hydroxyl in RNA is gated by local nucleotide flexibility. In other words, the 2'-hydroxyl is reactive at single-stranded and conformationally flexible positions but is unreactive at nucleotides constrained by base-pairing. Recent efforts have been focused on developing reagents that modify RNA as a function of RNA 2' hydroxyl group reactivity. Such RNA structure probing techniques can be read out by primer extension in experiments termed RNA SHAPE (selective 2'- hydroxyl acylation and primer extension). Herein, we describe the efforts devoted to the design and utilization of SHAPE probes for characterizing RNA structure. We also describe current technological advances that are being applied to utilize SHAPE chemistry with deep sequencing to probe many RNAs in parallel. The merging of chemistry with genomics is sure to open the door to genome-wide exploration of RNA structure and function.
Should recent experiences with CVOTs for oral hypoglycemic drugs allow us to rethink the regulatory paradigm

In response to a meta-analysis raising significant concerns over the cardiovascular safety of rosiglitazone, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a draft guidance directing sponsors of novel diabetes drugs to address cardiovascular risk, including large outcomes trials. Regulatory experience supports that outcomes trials, absent a clear signal of risk, may add reassurance, but also have significant consequences. The FDA should finalize this guidance, taking into account the regulatory experience since 2008.
The Role of Protein Kinase A Anchoring via the RIIα Regulatory Subunit in the Murine Immune System

Intracellular cAMP may inhibit T cell activation and proliferation via activation of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase, PKA. PKA signaling is maintained through interactions of the regulatory subunit with A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs). We demonstrated that T cells contain AKAPs and now ask whether PKA anchoring to AKAPs via the RIIα regulatory subunit is necessary for cAMP-mediated inhibition of T cell activation. We studied the immune systems of mice lacking the RIIα regulatory subunit of PKA (−/−) and the ability of cells isolated from these mice to respond to cAMP. Dissection of spleen and thymus from wild-type (WT) and −/− mice, single cell suspensions generated from these organs, and flow cytometry analysis illustrate that the gross morphology, cell numbers, and cell populations in the spleen and thymus of the −/− mice are similar to WT controls. In vitro, splenocytes from −/− mice respond to anti-CD3/anti-CD28 and PMA/ionomycin stimulation and produce IL-2 similar to WT. Cytokine analysis revealed no significant difference in Th1 or Th2 differentiation. Finally, equivalent frequencies of CD8 + IFN-γ producing effector cells were stimulated upon infection of WT or −/− mice with Listeria monocytogenes . These data represent the first study of the role of RIIα in the immune system in vivo and provide evidence that T cell development, homeostasis, and the generation of a cell-mediated immune response are not altered in the RIIα −/− mice, suggesting either that RIIα is not required for normal immune function or that other proteins are able to compensate for RIIα function.
Atomic and electronic structure and chemical reactivity of metal clusters

Abstract Platinum clusters were introduced into the crystals of a Y-zeolite, a porous silicoaluminate containing internal cavities called supercages with a diameter of 1.3 nm. Two kinds of samples were prepared by finishing their preparation at a low (490 K) or high (673 K) temperature. The corresponding clusters are denoted as L and H respectively. It was determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that the L clusters contain 20 atoms on the average. This critical finding by TEM led to a new interpretation of results obtained by means of a technique developed recently by the Fraissard group and based on 129 Xe NMR. According to the Fraissard technique, the same L clusters contain 16 atoms on the average. These values are compatible with the size determination of L clusters by X-ray techniques, EXAFS and WAXS. From the Fraissard technique, the H clusters contain 30 atoms. The X-ray techniques also confirm that the H clusters are larger than L clusters. The atomic and electronic structure of these clusters is discussed, together with their chemical and catalytic reactivity.
A totally computerized cardiac pacemaker surveillance system.

Abstract A completely on-line cardiac pacemaker surveillance system has been developed operating on an 8K PDP-12 minicomputer with disk. Personnel with no computer experience can supervise the automatic collection and analysis of pacer function data during patient clinic visits. Parameters analyzed include waveform analysis and adequacy of rate, sensing, and stimulus relative to the patient's spontaneously generated electrocardiogram. All data for a given pacemaker are stored for instant recall, and a comparative function report is generated immediately to aid staff evaluation of patients. The system is rapid, has added accuracy to pacemaker evaluation, and both facilitates and improves patient care. It is applicable to settings where sophisticated electronic equipment and large computer installations are not available, and could augment development of regional pacemaker data networks. Capabilities for full on-line analysis of telephonically transmitted pacer waveforms and electrocardiograms are currently being implemented.
The first intron of the human α2(I) collagen gene (COL1A2) contains a novel interferon-γ responsive element

Cell transfection assays have shown that several transcription factors can mediate interferon-gamma (INF-gamma) inhibition of the human alpha2(I) collagen gene (COL1A2) by binding distinct cis-acting elements in the proximal promoter. Recent transgenic work, on the other hand, has identified a strong repressor in the first intron of COL1A2 that includes a binding site for interferon regulatory factors (IRFs). Here we present evidence from cell transfection experiments indicating that this IRF-binding site (IF3) is a novel target of the pathways elicited by INF-gamma to blunt transcription from the COL1A2 promoter. First, we showed that INF-gamma stimulates the production of IRF-1 transcripts, as well as the formation of an IRF-1 containing complex at the FI3 element. Second, we demonstrated that IRF-1 over-expression inhibits COL1A2 promoter activity specifically through the action of FI3, in addition to decreasing the steady-state levels of the endogenous COL1A2 mRNA. Third, we documented that INF-gamma treatment of cultured fibroblasts increases binding of IRF-1 to FI3 in the endogenous COL1A2 gene. Together our findings further extend the list of transcription factors involved in INF-gamma inhibition of COL1A2 gene expression.
Multichip Module Technology

The paper describes the key design features and outlines the manufacturing process for multi-chip ceramic modules used in recently announced IBM products. Emphasis is placed on the thermal conduction module (TCM) which is used in the IBM 3081 computer and incorporates the most advanced substrate and module technologies at IBM. The 90 mm × 90 mm TCM substrate contains up to 32 ceramic layers and typically 130M of impedance controlled wiring to interconnect up to 118 LSI logic and array devices. The TCM is designed to provide a cooling capacity of up to 300W. Key manufacturing challenges are highlighted.
Learning the higher-order structure of a natural sound

Unsupervised learning algorithms paying attention only to second-order statistics ignore the phase structure (higher-order statistics) of signals, which contains all the informative temporal and spatial coincidences which we think of as ‘features’. Here we discuss how an Independent Component Analysis (ICA) algorithm may be used to elucidate the higher-order structure of natural signals, yielding their independent basis functions. This is illustrated with the ICA transform of the sound of a fingernail tapping musically on a tooth. The resulting independent basis functions look like the sounds themselves, having similar temporal envelopes and the same musical pitches. Thus they reflect both the phase and frequency information inherent in the data.*This paper was presented at the Workshop on Information Theory and the Brain, held at the University of Stirling, UK, on 4—5 September 1995
Chemical doping and intergranular magnetic-field effects in bulk thallium-based superconductors

Measurements of ac magnetic susceptibility of bulk ${\mathrm{Tl}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Ca}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{\mathit{y}}$ and compounds containing noble-metal additives were carried out to investigate the effects of chemical doping and penetration of magnetic field into the intergranular region. Significant enhancement of the intergranular critical current density was demonstrated in Tl-based ceramic superconductors with Au and Ag doping. Methods for convenient determination of the intergranular weak-link phase-locking temperature and average lower critical field in the bulk granular superconductors are discussed.
Accurate charge density data collection in under a day with a home X-ray source

Accurate charge density data for pentaerythritol were measured at 15 K in the laboratory in under a day using a Rigaku R-Axis Rapid high-power rotating-anode diffractometer with a curved image-plate detector, and open-flow liquid-helium cryostat. The experimental procedure and data treatment are briefly described, and data quality evaluated based on a number of criteria.
Clinical applications of transpulmonary contrast echocardiography

Abstract Background The recent development of new fluorocarbon-based echocardiographic contrast agents that are capable of opacification of the left-sided cardiac chambers after intravenous injection is a major new advance in diagnostic cardiac imaging. Methods and Results This is a review article focusing on these novel contrast agents, new echocardiographic imaging techniques to optimize their efficacy, and their clinical applications. Specific clinical applications of these agents are (1) enhancement of endocardial border definition to improve assessment of regional and global left ventricular function, (2) myocardial perfusion imaging by intravenous contrast echocardiography, (3) augmentation of spectral and color flow Doppler images, and (4) tissue-specific targeting of microbubbles for delivery of therapeutic agents. Conclusions New intravenous contrast agents offer the possibility to assess myocardial perfusion echocardiographically. It is also possible to use these agents for delivery of therapeutic agents, including gene therapy. (Am Heart J 1999;137:144-53.)
Postheparin plasma lipase activities in obesity: Failure to increase with adipose organ enlargement☆

Published studies have shown that overproduction of very low density lipoproteins is a major factor leading to hypertiglyceridemia in obesity. Few systematic studies of triglyceride removal or postheparin lipoprotein lipase activity (LPLA) in obesity have appeared. We have examined heparin-released lipoprotein triglyceride hydrolase activities in 12 lean and 12 obese age- and sex-matched volunteers after overnight fasting. Heparin doses were calculated to compensate for the disproportionality between body mass and plasma volume in obesity. Triglyceride hydrolase activities of hepatic (HTGLA) and extrahepatic (LPLA) origin were distinguished by in vitro inhibition of LPLA with protamine sulfate. Incremental heparin doses were given to each subject to determine lipase activities under conditions of maximal release and to define sensitivity to heparin-facilitated lipase release. Maximal postheparin LPLA and HTGLA (u/ml plasma or u/total plasma vol) were similar in lean and obese individuals despite a nearly three-fold increase in calculated adipose tissue mass in the obese. Since adipose tissue LPLA has been reported to increase in proportion to adipocyte size, the lack of difference in maximal postheparin LPLA was expected. There was an inverse correlation between plasma triglyceride concentration and LPLA/kg adipose tissue. These empirical observations may reflect relatively decreased heparin-releaseable (functional) LPLA in relation to adipose organ mass in obese subjects. The mechanism of this relationship has not been established.
Higher-functioning pervasive developmental disorders: rates and patterns of psychotropic drug use.

ABSTRACT Objective To explore the frequency, characteristics, and associated target symptoms of psychotropic drug use among subjects with higher-functioning pervasive developmental disorders (HFPDDs). Method A total of 109 children, adolescents, and adults (mean age = 13.9 years, SD = 6.9) consecutively seeking enrollment into the Yale Child Study Center's Project on Social Learning Disabilities were included in the study. Individuals in whom Asperger's disorder, autism, or pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified had been previously diagnosed and who had a documented Full Scale IQ > or= to 70 completed surveys on demographic, clinical, and medication history information. To naturalistically evaluate medication use patterns in this population, each drug class was analyzed with respect to demographic and clinical variables. Results In all, 55% of subjects were taking psychotropics, with 29.3% taking 2 or more medications simultaneously. Antidepressants were the most commonly used agents (32.1%), followed by stimulants (20.2%) and neuroleptics (16.5%). The clinical presentation of subjects taking psychotropic agents was heterogeneous, and most consistently included anxiety-related target symptoms (in 65% of medicated individuals). Conclusions Psychotropic medication use appears to be common among subjects with HFPDDs, yet not generally based on the results of empirical research. Clinical heterogeneity among treated subjects suggests that psychiatric comorbidity may be overlooked in this population.
Leukotriene B4 levels in rabbit maxillary sinusitis: limitations of the current model.

Since the late 1980s, the rabbit model for sinusitis has been widely used for experimental studies on sinusitis; however, the clinical relevance of these experimental data has been questioned. To e...
What Do You Mean, a Spot?: A Qualitative Analysis of Patients' Reactions to Discussions With Their Physicians About Pulmonary Nodules

Background More than 150,000 Americans each year are found to have a pulmonary nodule. Even more will be affected following the publication of the National Lung Screening Trial. Patient-doctor communication about pulmonary nodules can be challenging. Although most nodules are benign, it may take 2 to 3 years to rule out cancer. We sought to characterize patients' perceptions of communication with their providers about pulmonary nodules. Methods We conducted four focus groups at two sites with 22 adults with an indeterminate pulmonary nodule. Transcripts were analyzed using principles of grounded theory. Results Patients described conversations with 53 different providers about the pulmonary nodule. Almost all patients immediately assumed that they had cancer when first told about the nodule. Some whose providers did not discuss the actual cancer risk or explain the evaluation plan experienced confusion and distress that sometimes lasted for months. Patients were frustrated when their providers did not address their concerns about cancer or potential adverse effects of surveillance (eg, prolonged uncertainty, radiation exposure), which in some cases led to poor adherence to evaluation plans. Patients found it helpful when physicians used lay terms, showed the CT image, and quantified cancer risk. By contrast, patients resented medical jargon and dismissive language. Conclusions Patients commonly assume that a pulmonary nodule means cancer. What providers tell (or do not tell) patients about their cancer risk and the evaluation plan can strongly influence patients' perceptions of the nodule and related distress. We describe simple communication strategies that may help patients to come to terms with an indeterminate pulmonary nodule.
Protocols for data hiding in pseudo-random state

An emerging form of steganographic communication uses ciphertext to replace the output of a random or strong pseudo-random number generator. PRNG-driven media, for example computer animated backdrops in video-conferencing channels, can then be used as a covert channel, if the PRNG bits that generated a piece of content can be estimated by the recipient. However, all bits sent over such a channel must be computationally indistinguishable from i.i.d. coin flips. Ciphertext messages and even key exchange datagrams are easily shaped to match this distribution; however, when placing these messages into a continous stream of PRNG bits, the sender is unable to provide synchronization markers, metadata, or error correction to ensure the message's location and proper decoding. In this paper we explore methods for message transmission and steganographic key exchange in such a "coin flip" channel. We establish that key exchange is generally not possible in this channel if an adversary possesses even a modest noise budget. If the warden is not vigilant in adding noise, however, communication is very simple.
The Cumulative Effects of Acute Alcohol Consumption, Individual Differences and Situational Perceptions on Sexual Decision Making*

Objective: Past alcohol administration research has produced mixed findings regarding the role of acute alcohol consumption on sexual decision making. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a more complex theoretical model that places alcohol's acute effects in context, through the inclusion of background measures as well as affective and cognitive responses to the specific situation. Method: College students (90 men, 90 women) completed a survey that included measures of individual difference characteristics and past experiences; approximately 1 month later, they participated in an alcohol administration study. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three drink conditions (sober, placebo, alcohol), after which they read a story about a couple that wanted to have sex, but had no condoms available. Results: In hierarchical multiple regression analyses, acute alcohol consumption significantly predicted participants' perceived likelihood that they would have sex without a condom in such a situation...
Optically absorbing metallization

An electrode metallization is demonstrated that absorbs nearly all light incident upon it at specified wavelengths. This electrode may see application in reflective displays and spatial light modulators where stray light reflected off circuit metallization is deleterious. Reflection suppression of −35 dB is shown in a highly conductive metallization.
Chronic sinusitis in children with respiratory allergy: the role of antimicrobials☆

Abstract We evaluated the role of antimicrobials in the treatment of chronic maxillary sinusitis in children with respiratory allergy. Night and day cough, nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, postnasal drip, thick green nasal secretions, and negative nasal smears for eosinophils were commonly seen. Eighty-four children were treated in a double-blind manner with either amoxicillin, erythromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or an antihistamine decongestant (carbinoxamine maleate-pseudoephedrine HCl). Radiographic and clinical responses were best with amoxicillin, but trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was an adequate alternative. This study demonstrates that allergic children with chronic sinusitis with associated chronic respiratory symptoms are likely to respond clinically and radiologically with antimicrobial treatment.
Asn415 in the β11-β12 Linker Decreases Proton-dependent Desensitization of ASIC1

Neurons of the mammalian nervous system express the proton-sensing ion channel ASIC1. Low concentrations of protons in the normal range of extracellular pH, pH 7.4–7.3, shut the pore by a conformational transition referred as steady-state desensitization. Therefore, the potential of local acidification to open ASIC1 relies on proton affinity for desensitization. This property is important physiologically and also can be exploited to develop strategies to increase or decrease the channel response to protons. In a previous study (Li, T., Yang, Y., and Canessa, C. M. (2010) J. Biol. Chem. 285, 22706–22712), we found that Leu-85 in the β1-β2 linker of the extracellular domain decreases the apparent proton affinity for steady-state desensitization and retards openings, slowing down the time course of the macroscopic currents. Here, we show that Asn-415 in the β11-β12 linker works together with the β1-β2 linker to stabilize a closed conformation that delays transition from the closed to the desensitized state. Substitutions of Asn-415 for Cys, Ser, or Gly render ASIC1 responsive to small increases in proton concentrations near the baseline physiological pH.
Supplemental dietary protein for grazing dairy cows: reproduction, condition loss, plasma metabolites, and insulin.

Abstract An experiment was conducted over a 2-yr period to investigate the influence of grain crude protein (CP) and rumen undegradable protein (RUP) concentration on reproduction and energy status of dairy cows grazing annual ryegrass ( Lolium multiflorum ) and oats ( Avena sativa ). Holstein cows (n = 122) were blocked by calving group [partum (0 d postpartum) vs. postpartum (41±19 d postpartum at study initiation)] and assigned to grain supplements containing high CP [22.8% of dry matter (DM)], moderate CP (16.6%), or moderate CP (16.2%)] supplemented with RUP from blood meal and corn gluten meal. Postpartum condition loss was greater and first-service pregnancy rate was lower for partum-group cows receiving high CP grain supplements compared with control cows receiving moderate CP supplements. The RUP supplements reduced grain consumption, increased days to first estrus, and reduced first-service pregnancy rate of partum-group cows. The reproduction of postpartum group cows was unaffected by protein supplements. Plasma urea nitrogen was higher for cows fed high CP diets, but plasma ammonia nitrogen, glycated hemoglobin, nonesterified fatty acids, β-hydoxybutyrate, glucose, and insulin concentrations were similar to cows fed moderate CP. Excess postpartum condition loss, coupled with inconsistent protein supplement effects on days to first service and first-service pregnancy rate, suggest that energy deprivation may have contributed to the low fertility experienced by grazing cows in this study.