cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia After Discontinuation of Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors.

The Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKis) ibrutinib and acalabrutinib have led to durable responses for patients with both treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Many patients, however, ultimately discontinue BTKis due to toxicity or progressive CLL. This article reviews the two most common reasons for ibrutinib and acalabrutinib discontinuation, including adverse events as well as CLL progression. The data for specific CLL-directed therapies following BTKi discontinuation, including venetoclax, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors, cellular therapies, and ongoing clinical trials, are reviewed. An evidence-based sequencing algorithm for treatment of CLL following BTKi discontinuation is proposed.
Phased cycles

We define a phased graph G to yield an adjacency matrix A(G) having general magnitude-1 values in the same locations as the usual unphased case, but subject to the restriction that A be Hermitian. Some characteristics of phased cycles, their eigenspectra, their symmetry, and their net energy are contemplated and described.
Reformulation of the context of community based care

Community based care has traditionally been defined as residential location. An alternative is presented of including the patient's membership in multiple communities, both geographical and identificational. The literature on social supports is cited as a basis for social integration as a goal.
Sensitivity analysis of an asymmetric Monte Carlo beam model of a Siemens PRIMUS accelerator

72 1024x768 Normal 0 false false false The assumption of cylindrical symmetry in radiotherapy accelerator models can pose a challenge for precise Monte Carlo modeling. This assumption makes it difficult to account for measured asymmetries in clinical dose distributions. We have performed a sensitivity study examining the effect of varying symmetric and asymmetric beam and geometric parameters of a Monte Carlo model for a Siemens PRIMUS accelerator. The accelerator and dose output were simulated using modified versions of BEAMnrc and DOSXYZnrc that allow lateral offsets of accelerator components and lateral and angular offsets for the incident electron beam. Dose distributions were studied for 40 × 40 cm2 fields. The resulting dose distributions were analyzed for changes in flatness, symmetry, and off-axis ratio (OAR). The electron beam parameters having the greatest effect on the resulting dose distributions were found to be electron energy and angle of incidence, as high as 5% for a 0.25° deflection. Electron spot size and lateral offset of the electron beam were found to have a smaller impact. Variations in photon target thickness were found to have a small effect. Small lateral offsets of the flattening filter caused significant variation to the OAR. In general, the greatest sensitivity to accelerator parameters could be observed for higher energies and off-axis ratios closer to the central axis. Lateral and angular offsets of beam and accelerator components have strong effects on dose distributions, and should be included in any high-accuracy beam model.
Surgical treatment of impotence with small-carrion prosthesis: Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations

Since 1974, 900 patients with erectile dysfunction from various causes underwent implantation of a semi-flexible prosthesis, generally of the Small-Carrion type. The largest group had arteriosclerotic or hypertensive cardiovascular disease. The second largest group was composed of patients with diabetes mellitus. Those in the third group had undergone prostatectomy, cystectomy, or abdominal-perineal resection. For a large number of patients a diagnosis of psychogenic impotence was reached, mainly from the results of the history questionnaire and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. Complications were rare (8.1%). Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations include correct selection of prosthesis, rigorous antibiotic coverage, prevention or care of perforation, and possible need for reoperation. The results were almost uniformly successful. Psychogenic cases and instances of infertility related to the impotence are reviewed.
Market Power in U.S. Broadband Services

The U.S. telecommunications industry has come under scrutiny amid concerns that regulatory policies have been too permissive. These concerns are perhaps most prominent in the residential broadband market where there is a perception that the “duopoly” between telephone carriers (DSL suppliers) and cable TV operators (cable modem services) has given rise to anti-competitive behavior. The presence of market power is a testable hypothesis that cannot be deduced solely from market shares or price-cost margins. We develop an economic analysis that incorporates both static and dynamic factors to examine the extant marketplace evidence. The data suggest that “duopoly” broadband providers do not generate supra-competitive returns. Public policies to regulate broadband providers should be informed by these market conditions.
Probability based simulation of stern slamming design events

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of estimating stern slam loads for modern flat stern vessels. Due to their characteristic short duration and extreme local concentration, slam impact pressures prove to be particularly troublesome in the design of fast modern ships. Design methods are now evolving to include advanced nonlinear time-domain simulation that enables the approximation of these impact pressures. Computationally, however, these efforts are still very expensive and lower order modeling is frequently required to gain initial insights into the relevant physics.In this paper, the estimation of design impact loads due to the stern slam of a Joint High Speed Sealift (JHSS) concept hull is discussed, based on the Design Loads Generator (DLG). In the DLG method, a finite number of Fourier phase components is used to create an ensemble of response-tailored wave trains. The extreme response distribution from the ensemble approximates the exact extreme value distribution of a Gaussian random variable of the same random process. The wave elevations leading to these extreme values are then obtained via linear theory and subsequently used as inputs to the Large Amplitude Motion Program (LAMP), a nonlinear 3D time-domain seakeeping code to calculate stern slam impact.
An intrusion detection system for detecting phishing attacks

In this paper we present a hybrid system to protect private data from phishing attacks. Our solution uses intrusion detection methods to identify potential phishing emails then relies on web crawlers to validate or reject this suspicion. We also use external information coming through RDF Site Summaries (RSS) alerts about potential phishing sites. Our two-layered phishing detection system reside on the server of the organization, thus it is not vulnerable to blocking attacks targeting web browsers.
Implementing Constructive Real Analysis: Preliminary Report

In this paper we present the results of an investigation into the use of the Nuprl proof development system to implement higher constructive mathematics. As a first step in exploring the issues involved, we have developed a basis for formalizing substantial parts of real analysis. More specifically, we have: developed type-theoretic representations of concepts from Bishop's treatment of constructive mathematics that allow reasonably direct formalizations; used Nuprl's facility for sound extension of its inference system to implement automated reasoners for analysis; and tested these ideas in a formalization of rational and real arithmetic and of a proof of the completeness theorem for the reals (every Cauchy sequence converges).
Impact Analysis for Candidate Space Reactor Core Concept Designs for Potential Criticality Study

A hydrodynamics model has been developed to study extreme deformation of the space reactor system impacting on the ground with a high velocity. Two-dimensional geometry models for a monolithic core and a pinned core reactor have been developed with dynamic material models, including the material constitutive models and the equation-of-state models. Calculations have been performed for the reactor impacting onto dry sand at 230 and 150 m/s. A pinned core has a much larger fraction of gas volume in the reactor core and thus collapses faster than a monolithic core. The 150-m/s impact velocity case reveals that the gas coolant channels survive in a monolithic core even though the reactor is massively deformed. In a pinned core, however, most of the gas coolant region collapses with intact or partially collapsed fission product gas cores that are protected by solid UO2 fuel. Sand density varies as it is being compressed. Generally, sand beneath the impacting reactor has a higher density as it is compressed. In addition to consideration of global criticality, it is necessary to investigate local criticality. Because of nonuniform distribution of the gas coolant channels in a deformed monolithic core for the 230-m/s impact velocity case, it may bemore » possible to induce criticality locally in those regions where collapse is more severe. It is not straightforward to make an engineering judgment based solely on impact analysis regarding which core concept is more susceptible to criticality events. The current impact study reveals that a pinned core reactor collapses faster than a monolithic core reactor. A reactor that collapses faster is thought to be more susceptible to producing a criticality. However, a monolithic core reactor with much higher mass and kinetic energy develops much higher compaction in the dry sand beneath the reactor. This means that it is expected to better reflect fast neutrons from the bottom boundary where the sand density for a monolithic core impact becomes much higher than for a pinned core impact. It is strongly recommended that neutronics calculations be performed to determine the susceptibility of criticality for the massively deformed nuclear reactors including appropriate reflecting boundary conditions.« less
La transformación de la visión de John Quincy Adams sobre México

Este articulo analiza la actitud cambiante frente a Mexico de John Quincy Adams, de ser el primer arquitecto de la expansion territorial de Estados Unidos en la epoca nacional temprana hasta convertirse en ardiente defensor de la integridad territorial de Mexico en los anos treinta. El autor se plantea tambien la siguiente pregunta: ?Que nos dice la transformacion de John Quincy Adams sobre las relaciones mas amplias entre Estados Unidos y Mexico? El trabajo muestra como, durante la segunda decada del siglo XIX, en la busqueda de autosuficiencia y ampliacion territorial de Estados Unidos, Adams valoraba poco el potencial civico de Mexico y era ansioso de adquirir Texas y otros territorios mexicanos. Con su derrota en las elecciones de 1828, se convirtio en opositor de la expansion jacksoniana. Al resistir la expansion de la esclavitud –y la posibilidad de que la republica se convirtiera en un imperio conquistador- Adams se vio obligado, a pesar suyo, a defender la integridad de Mexico.
Operationalizing Biesta: Bringing Unique Beings Into Existence in Standardized Spaces

This essay details the authors’ attempts to implement a “Biestian” curriculum in a large, rural high school. Drawing on the work of Gert Biesta’s Beyond Learning: Democratic Education for a Human Future, the authors discuss a methodology that begins to satisfy Biesta’s theoretical underpinnings of what he calls a “humane education.” Acknowledging and rejecting Biesta’s warnings against turning his ideas into “technique,” the authors call for operationalizing democratic educational theorists despite their protestations, as refusing to do so allows neoliberal pedagogical reforms to maintain their hegemonic dominance. We focus on Biesta in particular as he is an established, highly regarded philosopher of educational practice and policy, and we believe theoretical work such as his is exactly the type of theory that must be turned into practice, despite his protestations.
Environmental motivation to switch to thermoacoustic refrigeration

Abstract Since modern refrigeration technologies were introduced in the early 19 th century, their use has significantly increased. In fact it is now almost impossible imagine life without refrigeration and air conditioning. Currently, cooling is primarily achieved with vapor compression machines that use a specific refrigerant that can be tailored to any required temperature level. To achieve these properties, blends of hydrogen, carbon, fluorine and chlorine in various mixing ratios are utilized. Depending on those ratios, the refrigerant exhibits a specific set of properties in regard to refrigeration, but also a global warming potential and an ozone depletion potential. Since the adverse effects of those substances have been discovered, the field of refrigeration is moving away from conventional refrigerants, constantly searching for better alternatives. Thermoacoustic refrigeration is such an alternative that can provide cooling to essentially any required temperature level without using any environmentally harmful substances. It is a niche technology that can be expanded into a broader market, primarily if the sizing problem can be solved. Currently, the most efficient thermoacoustic refrigerators are used in industrial settings. As an example, this work illustrates the benefits of this technology with a consideration of its Total Equivalent Warming Impact (TEWI) compared to conventional cooling in vehicles, which is shown to be a potential target application. Also, additional target applications are suggested.
Decision strategies for cerebral dysfunction IV: determination of cerebral dysfunction.

Abstract The present study examined the contribution of tests that compose the Impairment Index with regard to their ability to predict brain impairment. The investigation further examines the ability of various other tests, chosen because of their observed usefulness in detecting brain impairment. Subjects composing the brain damaged group (n = 298) were found to be impaired on both CT and EEG examinations. The pseudo-neurological control group (n = 193) consisted of patients referred for testing yet all non-neuropsychological tests were normal. Discriminant analyses were conducted to determine the weightings of each test as well as to determine the overall prediction accuracies of three groupings of tests. These analyses demonstrate that tests, not comprising the Impairment Index, are of predictive value in determining dysfunction: Thurstone Word Flunecy and a 60 minute delayed recall from the WMS. Overall prediction accuracies of the various test groupings ranged from 73.52% to 78.02%. No statistically significant reduction of accuracy resulted with cross validation. All tests of statistically predictive value and all prediction results with their corresponding discriminant formulas are reported as well as a discussion of the application of these findings.
The dietary antioxidant network and prostate carcinoma

vidence from epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory studies isgradually emerging supporting the concept that a complex inter-action between the host antioxidant defense system and dietary an-tioxidants may participate in the origin and progression of prostatecarcinoma. Although “antioxidant” hypotheses have long been pro-posed to underlie the development of many cancers,
FEMINISM AND URBAN IMAGERY

(1995). FEMINISM AND URBAN IMAGERY. Urban Geography: Vol. 16, Chinese Cities and Urbanization II, pp. 643-648.
We Could be Criticized! Policing and Risk Aversion

Rob Heaton is a serving police officer in Kent Police. He was awarded a M.Sc. degree in 1996 and Ph.D. in 2007. He has published several papers about the effects of policing upon crime rates, and the demands on the police service in relation to its resources.The term ‘risk aversion’ has become increasingly common throughout the public sector. In the context of policing, concerns have been expressed that risk aversion and related bureaucracy have become an impediment to the service in the fulfilment of its core functions. The article examines the reasons for the growth in risk aversion and its effects upon policing. Significant challenges have been recently made in the form of the Flanagan Report and subsequent Green and White Papers, together with the Home Office-sponsored ‘Reducing Bureaucracy in Policing’ report. The likelihood that these developments will halt or reverse the forces of risk aversion is assessed as uncertain.
High strength–toughness combination of melt intercalated nanoclay-reinforced thermoplastic olefins

We examine here the mechanical behavior and the micromechanism of fracture in impact tested neat and nanoclay-reinforced thermoplastic olefins, both of which have been processed under similar conditions. The reinforcement of thermoplastic olefins with nanoclay increases modulus and yields strength of the resulting nanocomposite and retains impact strength. The enhancement of modulus and yield strength is related to the reinforcement effect of nanoclay, while the retention of impact strength on reinforcement is attributed to the strong interaction between clay and polymer matrix. Both neat and clay-reinforced thermoplastic olefins are characterized by plastic deformation processes that involve ductile ploughing, fibrillation and voiding.
Oil shale anisotropy measurement and sensitivity analysis

Summary We have measured velocity anisotropy on 13 core samples from an organic shale oil reservoir with differential pressure up to 3000 psi. The pressure effect on velocities is generally stronger in direction normal to the bedding than along the bedding, and thus the anisotropy decreases with increasing differential pressure. P-wave anisotropy and vertical Vp/Vs ratio have good correlation with TOC content: the higher is the TOC content, the stronger is Pwave anisotropy and the lower is Vp/Vs ratio. The measured P-wave anisotropy is generally greater than Swave anisotropy. Sensitivity of c13 and  to errors in velocity and angle measurement were analyzed. From the sensitivity analysis we conclude that both the angle and velocity measurement around 45 o are critical for reliable anisotropy measurement. . Equipment
Localization of substance P-like immunoreactivity in the adult and developing goldfish retina.

Abstract Substance P-like immunoreactivity was localized to amacrine cells in both adult and developing goldfish retina using immunohistochemical techniques. These studies utilized a well-characterized monoclonal antiserum directed to substance P. Specificity was established by absorption of the anti-serum with 10 μ m synthetic substance P. Specific substance P-like immunoreactivity was localized within a seemingly distinct population of unistratified amacrine cells which were distributed in both central and peripheral retinal regions. The immunoreactive somata were located at the border of the inner nuclear layer and inner plexiform layer and were characterized by a round or ovoid somata which measured about 9μm in diameter. These immunoreactive amacrine cells typically had a single process which descended to and ramified within lamina 3 of the inner plexiform layer. Specific substance P-like immunoreactivity first appeared 60 h after hatching (stage 27) within both somata and processes located in differentiated retinal regions. No substance P-like immunoreactive somata or processes were observed in undifferentiated retinal regions. In retinas from stage 27 to 14 days after hatching, the immunoreactive somata were characterized by an ellipsoidal soma and a large nucleus devoid of immunoreactivity. These immunoreactive cells were also characterized by a single process that descended to and ramified within lamina 3 of the differentiated inner plexiform layer. At 30 days after hatching, the substance P-containing cells were identical in appearance to these same cell types observed within the adult retina.
Glycemic Response to Dietary Supplements in Cystic Fibrosis is Dependent on the Carbohydrate Content of the Formula

Background: Enteral formula feedings are frequently prescribed to cystic fibrosis (CF) patients to boost caloric intake. A substantial number of these patients are glucose intolerant and have severe respiratory compromise. Methods: To determine the effect of the carbohydrate content on glucose tolerance and respiratory function in glucose-intolerant CF patients with poor lung function, we examined the response to bolus feedings of five dietary supplements: a high-fat formula developed in our Clinical Research Center (CRC), Pulmocare, a high-carbohydrate formula developed in our CRC, Ensure Plus, and sugar-free Scandishake. Results: Glucose excursion in response to the formulas with the lowest carbohydrate content was significantly less than that found in response to formulas with higher carbohydrate content. Insulin levels were also markedly lower in response to the low-carbohydrate high-fat formulas. Glucose excursion, expressed as a percent of the response to the CRC high-fat formula, was 111% ± 12% for...
Generalized pustular psoriasis. A review of 63 cases.

• Background.— Sixty-three patients with generalized pustular psoriasis were hospitalized during a 29-year period. They were classified into four subgroups on the basis of onset and morphologic pattern of disease: acute (von Zumbusch), subacute annular, chronic (acral), and mixed. This division provides a better understanding of the variability of the disease and helps in choosing treatment. Observations.— The average age at onset was 50 years; male and female patients were affected about equally. In 11 patients, flares were precipitated by localized infections. Approximately one fourth of the patients had complications; most were superinfections. The average stay in the hospital was 30 days; factors correlating with a long hospitalization were hypocalcemia, female sex, and a previous history of psoriasis vulgaris or pustular psoriasis. Conclusions.— Whereas topical therapy was helpful, systemic medications were often needed. Coal tar, ultraviolet light, and psoralen—ultraviolet A may be effective; however, they must be used with caution, because they may exacerbate the disease. (Arch Dermatol.1991;127:1339-1345)
Initial moments and parameterizing transition for Rayleigh–Taylor unstable stochastic interfaces

A stochastic form of linear stability analysis is used to construct initial conditions for variable density moment closures for flows due to the unstable interface between two different density fluids. The material interface can be driven by a mechanism, such as gravity, a pressure gradient (Rayleigh–Taylor), or by a shock (Richtmyer–Meskoff). Initial moments for second moment closure strategies that carry the variables k, ⟨uiuj ⟩, Rij , ϵ, and ai for the hydrodynamical field and ⟨ρ2⟩, ⟨ρv⟩, and ϵρ, ϵρv for the material field are derived. The method produces a one-to-one correspondence between the initial conditions of a statistical model and the initial energy production – crucially important to the early time problem that sets up the late time problem and is not addressed in models for these flows. The analysis is applied to the Rayleigh–Taylor transition and turbulence problem. Several scalings emerge from the analysis that parameterize the initial condition dependence of RT turbulence on statistics of...
The unfolded-protein-response pathway in yeast

The accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) triggers the increased production of several ER-resident proteins. This signalling pathway exists in organisms as divergent as mammals and yeast, and is the only known example of an intracellular signalling system that links the ER and the nucleus. Recently, a transmembrane kinase similar in structure to growth-factor receptor kinases has been identified as a key component of the unfolded-protein-response pathway in yeast.
Long-term surgical versus functional Class II correction: A comparison of identical twins

ABSTRACT The purpose of this twin case comparison was to assess the short- and long-term effects of nonsurgical treatment vs orthognathic surgical treatment for Class II correction. Two identical t...
Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis with Nephrocalcinosis in a Patient with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome

Renal involvement is not uncommon in primary Sjogren’s syndrome; however, it is clinically insignificant in most cases. Distal renal tubular acidosis accounts particularly for the majority. While the underlying distal renal tubular acidosis is an important cause of nephrocalcinosis and urolithiasis, nephrocalcinosis is rarely a presenting feature of primary Sjogren’s syndrome. We report a 65-year-old woman who was diagnosed with distal renal tubular acidosis accompanied by primary Sjogren’s syndrome, according to nephrocalcinosis, which was incidentally identified by an abdominal ultrasonography during a medical examination.
A field study of knowledge workers’ use of interactive horizontal displays

To better understand the potential for horizontal surfaces in day-to-day work, we conducted a field study. We collected and analyzed over a month of use data from eight participants who used horizontal displays in conjunction with their existing office computer setups. Our analysis of the system logs, observations, and interview data from the study reveals clear differences in preference and use patterns for horizontal and vertical display configurations. Based on these findings, we formulate hardware and software design guidelines that would increase the utility of interactive horizontal displays for office scenarios.
Suspected microbial-induced sedimentary structures (MISS) in Furongian (Upper Cambrian; Jiangshanian, Sunwaptan) strata of the Upper Mississippi Valley

The Furongian (Upper Cambrian; Jiangshanian and Sunwaptan) Tunnel City Group (Lone Rock Formation and Mazomanie Formation), exposed in Wisconsin and Minnesota, represents a shallow-marine clastic environment during a time of exceptionally high sea level. Lithofacies from shoreface to transitional-offshore settings document deposition in a wave- and storm-dominated sea. Flooding of the cratonic interior was associated with formation of a condensed section and the extensive development of microbial mats. Biolamination, mat fragments, wrinkle structures, and syneresis cracks are preserved in various sandstone facies of the Lone Rock Formation, as is evidence for the cohesive behavior of sand. These microbial-induced sedimentary structures (MISS) provide unique signals of biological–physical processes that physical structures alone cannot mimic. The MISS are associated with a trilobite extinction event in the Steptoean–Sunwaptan boundary interval. This may support recent claims that Phanerozoic microbial mats were opportunistic disaster forms that flourished during periods of faunal turnover. Further investigation of stratigraphic, taphonomic, and other potential biases, however, is needed to fully test this hypothesis.
“Why me?”: Low-Income Women’s Poverty Attributions, Mental Health, and Social Class Perceptions

Although much is known about broad societal attitudes toward poverty, less is known about how women perceive their own poverty. We sought to examine the types of self attributions low-income women make about their poverty, as well as the association of self poverty attributions to women’s mental health and upward mobility beliefs. Using close-ended questions in a community sample of 66 low-income mothers from the Midwestern United States, we found these women were most likely to attribute their poverty to issues related to having children, their romantic relationships, and structural/government blame. The least endorsed attributions for poverty were fatalistic and individualistic reasons. Attributing one’s poverty to children and structural reasons was related to greater depression, and attributing one’s poverty to romantic relationships and structural reasons was related to greater anxiety. Moreover, attributing one’s poverty to children and romantic relationships was positively related to upward mobility beliefs, whereas individualistic attributions were negatively related to upward mobility beliefs. Understanding how women view their poverty and upward mobility can help to improve interventions and policies aimed at low-income women.
Financial Implications of Ventral Hernia Repair: A Hospital Cost Analysis

Complicated ventral hernias are often referred to tertiary care centers. Hospital costs associated with these repairs include direct costs (mesh materials, supplies, and nonsurgeon labor costs) and indirect costs (facility fees, equipment depreciation, and unallocated labor). Operative supplies represent a significant component of direct costs, especially in an era of proprietary synthetic meshes and biologic grafts. We aim to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of complex abdominal wall hernia repair at a tertiary care referral facility. Cost data on all consecutive open ventral hernia repairs (CPT codes 49560, 49561, 49565, and 49566) performed between 1 July 2008 and 31 May 2011 were analyzed. Cases were analyzed based upon hospital status (inpatient vs. outpatient) and whether the hernia repair was a primary or secondary procedure. We examined median net revenue, direct costs, contribution margin, indirect costs, and net profit/loss. Among primary hernia repairs, cost data were further analyzed based upon mesh utilization (no mesh, synthetic, or biologic). Four-hundred and fifteen patients underwent ventral hernia repair (353 inpatients and 62 outpatients); 173 inpatients underwent ventral hernia repair as the primary procedure; 180 inpatients underwent hernia repair as a secondary procedure. Median net revenue ($17,310 vs. 10,360, p < 0.001) and net losses (3,430 vs. 1,700, p < 0.025) were significantly greater for those who underwent hernia repair as a secondary procedure. Among inpatients undergoing ventral hernia repair as the primary procedure, 46 were repaired without mesh; 79 were repaired with synthetic mesh and 48 with biologic mesh. Median direct costs for cases performed without mesh were $5,432; median direct costs for those using synthetic and biologic mesh were $7,590 and 16,970, respectively (p < .01). Median net losses for repairs without mesh were $500. Median net profit of $60 was observed for synthetic mesh-based repairs. The median contribution margin for cases utilizing biologic mesh was −$4,560, and the median net financial loss was $8,370. Outpatient ventral hernia repairs, with and without synthetic mesh, resulted in median net losses of $1,560 and 230, respectively. Ventral hernia repair is associated with overall financial losses. Inpatient synthetic mesh repairs are essentially budget neutral. Outpatient and inpatient repairs without mesh result in net financial losses. Inpatient biologic mesh repairs result in a negative contribution margin and striking net financial losses. Cost-effective strategies for managing ventral hernias in a tertiary care environment need to be developed in light of the financial implications of this patient population.
A COMPARISON OF CHOLINESTERASE DISTRIBUTION IN THE CEREBELLUM OF SEVERAL SPECIES

PREVIOUS efforts in this laboratory have been directed toward systematic mappings of oxidative enzyme activity in the brain. A comparison of the distribution patterns of enzymes involved in glycolysis, citric acid cycle, and hexose-monophosphate shunt revealed almost monotonous similarity both among enzymes and among species; differences were subtle and observed only upon careful scrutiny (FRIEDE, FLEMING and KNOLLER, 1963). In contrast, the present article reports on an almost bewildering species variability in the distribution of acetylcholinesterase (AChE)? and non-specific cholinesterase (ChE)? in the cerebellum. The discussion of these observations lead to somc basic conclusions regarding central synaptic organization. Also, these findings demonstrate the fundamental importance of complete systematic mappings for a just study of the complex chemical architecture of the brain. MATERIAL AND METHODS The following species were used in this study: human, squirrel monkey, cat, cow, rabbit, rat, squirrel, hamster, mouse, pigeon, canary, and parakeet. At least four brains of each species were studied with the exception of monkey and canary, which two brains were available for each. The human material was from normal brains obtained between 5 and 10 hr after death. The animals were either anaesthesized with sodium pentobarbital, or decapitated, and the brains immediately removed. The procedure was as follows: 1) Blocks 2-3 mm thick were fixed in 10% neutral formalin at 4" for 3-4 hr. 2) 30p frozen sections were placed back into formalin for 30 min. 3) Sections were thoroughly washed in two changes of 0.4 M-tris-HC1 buffer, pH 7.0, at 4" for 6&90 min. Thorough rinsing was important for removing formalin which interferes with the reaction (HOLMSTEDT, 1957). 4) The inhibitor control sections were treated at room temperature for 30 min in M inhibitor solution in 0.4 M-tris-HCI buffer, pH 7-0. M solutions were prepared from lo-' M stock solutions. Eserine and BW stock solutions were aqueous and stored at 4"; DFP stock solution was in anhydrous propylene glycol, stored in a desiccator at room temperature. Inhibitor studies were done only for AChE, and the sections were transferred directly from the inhibitor solution to acetylthiocholine iodide incubation medium containing M of the inhibitor. 5) The composition of the incubation media based on the GEREBTZOFF (1959) method was: 0.2 M-tris-maleate buffer, pH 6.6, 44.0 ml; 3.75% glycine, 1.0 ml; 0.1 M-cupric acetate, 1.0 ml; acetyl or butyryl thiocholine iodide, 4.0 ml. All solutions were made up in glass distilled water; the
Factors associated with adherence to self-monitoring of blood glucose among persons with diabetes.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between demographic, biological, and psychosocial characteristics of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) among people with diabetes. Methods A total of 933 adults with diabetes were invited to participate in the study. A self-administered survey was used to address the study objective. Adherence to SMBG was assessed by comparing the number of glucose tests performed by the patient with the number recommended by the healthcare provider. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship among the variables. Results Adherence to SMBG was 52%. Approximately one third of the participants (n = 213) could be categorized as adherent to SMBG. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that study participants with type 1 diabetes who experienced fewer environmental barriers (e.g., lifestyle interference, inconvenience, painfulness, and cost) were significantly more adherent to SMBG (P Conclusions Adherence to SMBG was suboptimal. The most significant factors that interfered with adherence were having type 2 diabetes and environmental barriers. Knowing the importance of these factors may assist diabetes educators and other healthcare professionals in identifying people at risk for low adherence to SMBG and potentially long-term health complications.
Electrical design of a high speed computer package

A methodology for optimizing the design of an electrical packaging system for a high speed computer is described. The pertinent parameters are first defined and their sensitivities are derived so that the proper design trade-offs can ultimately be made. From this procedure, a set of rules is generated for driving a computer aided design system. Finally, there is a discussion of design optimization and circuit and package effects on machine performance.
Adenosine deaminase activity and superoxide formation during phagocytosis at different cell densities.

Abstract Direct proportionality between intracellular adenosine deaminase activity and superoxide generation during phagocytosis at cell densities between 0.1 and 10 million cells/ml has been observed. Since adenosine deaminase controls the amount of substrate available to xanthine oxidase, and the latter produces superoxide during turnover of its substrates, it is suggested that the purine salvage pathway is an important contributor to the superoxide requirement of macrophages. Because macrophages participate in many immune processes, it is proposed that this may be the basis for the association of adenosine deaminase deficiency with immunodeficiency.
The Impact of Age, Speech Style, and Question Form on Perceptions of Witness Credibility and Trial Outcome

The experiment examined the effects that witness age (6, 10, or 22 year old), witness speech style (powerful or powerless), and prosecuting attorney's questioning style (open-or closed-ended) have on perceived witness credibility and trial outcome. Potential jurors (N=276) read trial transcripts involving a murder. A significant age by speech style interaction revealed that speaking in a powerless manner was significantly more harmful to the adult witness' credibility than it was to the child witness' credibility. A Significant Age × Question Form interaction revealed that question form only had a significant effect on the 6-year-old's credibility. Finally, verdicts, guilt ratings, and the length of the sentence were significantly correlated with ratings of the witness' credibility.
New Chain Barium-126-Cesium-126

The neutron-deficient chain ${\mathrm{Ba}}^{126}$-${\mathrm{Cs}}^{126}$ has been produced from nitrogen-ion bombardments of indium in the 60-inch cyclotron, by the reaction ${\mathrm{In}}^{115}(\mathrm{N}, 3n)$. Studies have been made of this new chain with a 50-channel scintillation spectrometer, a scintillation coincidence spectrometer, and a time-of-flight mass spectrograph. Element assignments and genetic relations have been verified chemically, and the mass number assigned with the isotope separator. ${\mathrm{Ba}}^{126}$ decays principally by orbital electron capture with a half-life of 96.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2.0 minutes, and its daughter ${\mathrm{Cs}}^{126}$ is a positron emitter of 1.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2 minute half-life and electron capture branching of 18\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}4 percent. The decay of ${\mathrm{Cs}}^{126}$ proceeds by allowed transitions, \ensuremath{\sim}62 percent to the ground state of ${\mathrm{Xe}}^{126}$ and \ensuremath{\sim}38 percent to the first excited state at 385 kev. The positron spectrum has a maximum energy of 3.8\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.4 Mev. On the basis of its decay properties, ${\mathrm{Cs}}^{126}$ appears to have a groundstate configuration of (1+).
Quality Circles for School Districts.

(1985). Quality Circles for School Districts. The Educational Forum: Vol. 49, No. 3, pp. 323-330.
Examining the Adoption of Old-Age Security Programs in the Developing World

This study examines the adoption of income-tested old-age security programs and mandatory privatized security programs in developing nations from 1960 to 1999. Program data on more than one hundred nations are modeled using discrete-time logistic regression. Findings suggest that, for privatized programs, the level of democratization in a nation is an important predictor. Inertia of existing programs and the role of structural adjustment policies in the 1990s are also important in determining the likelihood of program adoptions of this type. For income-tested programs, the number of political strikes experienced by a nation is associated with program adoption. Results suggest that the study of social policy in the developing world is important for understanding processes behind the development of the welfare state.
Gas chromatographic resolution and elution orders of simple diastereomeric alkenes

Abstract An alkene in which the double bond is flanked by hydrocarbon asymmetric centers exists as a pair of diastereomers that often can be resolved by gas chromatography. The resolution of a series of such diastereomers on a bonded non-polar column is described. The elution order of the diastereomers, the variation of separation factors with the distance between the asymmetric centers, and the potential for using this information to analyze natural products for configuration and configurational purity are discussed.
The Impact of Relational Characteristics and Reasons for Topic Avoidance on Relational Closeness

Although research suggests that the act of topic avoidance itself has consequences for romantic partners, it seems equally likely that the antecedent conditions underlying these decisions to avoid certain topics also lead to important relational outcomes. Framed by communication boundary management theory, relationship characteristics, motivation for topic avoidance, and implications for relational closeness were examined. Findings indicate that relational commitment characteristics and individuals' reported rationale for topic avoidance are related to perceptions of relational closeness. These results illustrate the importance of understanding the underlying factors that motivate the decision to engage in topic avoidance and their impact on romantic relationships.
An Introduction to Wavelet Transform Tidal Analysis Methods

Continuous wavelet transforms (CWTs) provide an approach to understanding the numerous tidal phenomena that deviate markedly from an assumed statistical stationarity or exact periodicity inherent in traditional tidal methods. Use of wavelets allows determination of the degree of non-stationarity present in time series, such as estuarine and shelf currents, usually treated as stationary. Wavelets also provide a consistent analysis of tidal and non-tidal variance, a feature often essential for dynamical analyses of non-stationary tides. We summarize basic notions of the wavelet transform, also known as a perfect reconstruction filter bank or a multire solution analysis, contrast them with those of harmonic analysis and Fourier transforms, construct a continuous wavelet transform basis with a scale selection especially adapted to tidal problems, describe possibilities for analysis of scalar and vector quantities, define a criterion for knowledge of independence of process between adjoining scales, and illustrate use of wavelet tools with several examples. In contrast to the nearly periodic barotropic tide typical of coastal stations, this paper analyses processes that are in part tidally driven but non-stationary, e.g. baroclinic tidal currents, river tides, continental shelf internal tides, and some kinds of biological activity in the coastal ocean. In all cases, wavelet analysis provides a consistent, linear analysis of tidal and non-tidal variance and reveals features that harmonic analysis on a Fourier transform approach could not elucidate.
Recent drought phase in a 73-year record at two spatial scales: Implications for livestock production on rangelands in the Southwestern United States

Livestock producers on rangelands are interested in drought at spatial scales of pastures ( 3 fold to 40–65% of years but frequencies did not differ between SPI and SPEI; and the frequency of summer drought did not change after 1996. At the small-scale, the extent of drought increased in winter and water years and decreased in summer since 1996 when using SPEI, but did not change when using SPI. Since 1996, the chances of a management unit-sized drought patch (1–10 contiguous cells) increased in winter, water year, and summer when using SPEI; but not in summer when using SPI. Scaling relationships show extensive drought patches (>20% of large area) when the large-scale is near average conditions, and those patches are larger in summer than winter. Increased drought frequency and patchy spatial distribution of drought have implications for herd structure and herd movements among pastures to avoid economic losses and overgrazing in drought patches. We propose increased efforts to detect drought patches with on-site gauge networks and temperature monitoring as well as remote sensing of precipitation patterns and vegetation indices.
In SituColor Detection of α-L-Arabinofuranosidase, a “No-Background” Reporter Gene, with 5-Bromo-3- indolyl-α-L-arabinofuranoside

Abstract We describe the synthesis and use of 5-bromo-3-indolyl-α- L -arabinofuranoside (5-BI-ara) for the detection of α- L -arabinofuranosidase in bacterial colonies. Since the product of 5-BI-ara hydrolysis is an intensely colored indigo precipitate, it is a useful substrate forin situdetection of α- L -arabinofuranosidase activity. Here we show that colonies of anEscherichia colistrain expressing a recombinant α- L -arabinofuranosidase gene fromStreptomyces lividansare readily identified by visual inspection on bacterial plates containing 5-BI-ara. Use of 5-BI-ara should facilitate the detection of endogenous α- L -arabinofuranosidase activity in a variety of microorganisms. In addition, since α- L -arabinofuranosidase activity is not commonly found in a large number of bacteria, yeast, and animal cells, 5-BI-ara will be useful in exploring the use of genes coding for α- L -arabinofuranosidase as gene expression reporters in heterologous systems.
Asymptotic expansions for randomly censored survival data

Abstract Asymptotic expansions are derived for the posterior distribution of a data dependent function of the mean of randomly censored survival data. The main result is a correction term for the transformed variable. Applications to average and fixed parameter confidence intervals are discussed.
Reductions in type a behavior, anxiety, anger, and physical illness as related to changes in irrational beliefs: Results of a demonstration project in industry

A series of stress management workshops was conducted in a Rational-Emotive Therapy (RET) format for an entire department in a large corporation (N=49). The population was rather general, i.e., nonstudent, nonclinical, and nonvolunteer. Measures were obtained before the program began and three to four months following completion on the “dependent” variables of Type A behavior, anxiety, anger, depression, assertiveness, and physical illness symptoms, and on the cognitive “independent” variables of irrational beliefs. Major changes were obtained on all “dependent” measures supporting previous work on the usefulness of an RET approach in reducing various types of distress. Further, these changes were shown to be strongly related to changes in irrational beliefs and changing such irrational beliefs was the major focus of the program. It is concluded, therefore, that a fundamental assumption of Rational-Emotive Therapy and theory is given additional empirical support.
Host Defense and Tolerance: Unique Challenges in the Placenta

Mammalian gestation creates an immunological paradox wherein the body must balance tolerance of an allogeneic fetus with protection against invading pathogens. Pregnancy has long been considered a state of immune suppression that, while necessary for reproduction, increases a woman’s susceptibility to infection [1]. However, mothers bear the responsibility of the most important biological task: to carry and to nourish their offspring. It is therefore fitting that a more nuanced picture is emerging of a tightly regulated maternal immune system that balances awareness of the fetus with mechanisms to protect against pathogens and to sustain a healthy pregnancy [2]. Recent evidence indicates that innate placental defenses comprise one such mechanism. Subversion of these defenses by pathogens can lead to pregnancy complications such as preterm labor or vertical transmission with fetal morbidity or mortality [3]. The Danger Model posits that tissue damage rather than foreign antigens trigger inflammation [4]. This notion encompasses the paradox of mammalian pregnancy and suggests that infection-based loss of placental integrity may be the route to complications. Here we review recent evidence for innate placental barriers to infection and how these can be breached by pathogens.