cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Electrocochleography, Angular Insertion Depth, and Cochlear Implant Speech Perception Outcomes

OBJECTIVES Electrocochleography (ECochG), obtained before the insertion of a cochlear implant (CI) array, provides a measure of residual cochlear function that accounts for a substantial portion of variability in postoperative speech perception outcomes in adults. It is postulated that subsequent surgical factors represent independent sources of variance in outcomes. Prior work has demonstrated a positive correlation between angular insertion depth (AID) of straight arrays and speech perception under the CI-alone condition, with an inverse relationship observed for precurved arrays. The purpose of the present study was to determine the combined effects of ECochG, AID, and array design on speech perception outcomes. DESIGN Participants were 50 postlingually deafened adult CI recipients who received one of three straight arrays (MED-EL Flex24, MED-EL Flex28, and MED-EL Standard) and two precurved arrays (Cochlear Contour Advance and Advanced Bionics HiFocus Mid-Scala). Residual cochlear function was determined by the intraoperative ECochG total response (TR) measured before array insertion, which is the sum of magnitudes of spectral components in response to tones of different stimulus frequencies across the speech spectrum. The AID was then determined with postoperative imaging. Multiple linear regression was used to predict consonant-nucleus-consonant (CNC) word recognition in the CI-alone condition at 6 months postactivation based on AID, TR, and array design. RESULTS Forty-one participants received a straight array and nine received a precurved array. The AID of the most apical electrode contact ranged from 341° to 696°. The TR measured by ECochG accounted for 43% of variance in speech perception outcomes (p < 0.001). A regression model predicting CNC word scores with the TR tended to underestimate the performance for precurved arrays and deeply inserted straight arrays, and to overestimate the performance for straight arrays with shallower insertions. When combined in a multivariate linear regression, the TR, AID, and array design accounted for 72% of variability in speech perception outcomes (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS A model of speech perception outcomes that incorporates TR, AID, and array design represents an improvement over a model based on TR alone. The success of this model shows that peripheral factors including cochlear health and electrode placement may play a predominant role in speech perception with CIs.
Predicting stock splits with the help of firm-specific experiences

Evidence exists of abnormal stock returns at and following stock split announcements. The successful prediction of splits may therefore enhance investor returns, yet few studies attempt such forecasts. We note a neglected aspect of prior prediction studies—that companies enjoying a favorable stock market response to a previous split are more likely to split again. Firms in industries with a record of favorable post-split performance may also be more likely to split. We find that inclusion of these factors enhances split prediction accuracy. We also find that with these factors our split prediction model generates significant abnormal returns.
Prediction models for breast cancer prognosis among Asian women.

Background Robust and reliable prognosis prediction models have not been developed and validated for Asian patients with breast cancer, a rapidly growing yet understudied population in the United States. Methods We used longitudinal data from the Shanghai Breast Cancer Survival Study, a population-based prospective cohort study (n = 5042), to develop prediction models for 5- and 10-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). The initial models considered age at diagnosis, tumor grade, tumor size, number of positive nodes, TNM stage, chemotherapy, tamoxifen therapy, and estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status. We then evaluated whether the addition of modifiable lifestyle factors (physical activity, soy isoflavones intake, and postdiagnostic weight change) improved the models. All final models have been validated internally and externally in the National Cancer Database when applicable. Results Our final models included age at diagnosis, tumor grade, tumor size, number of positive nodes, TNM stage, chemotherapy, tamoxifen therapy, ER status, PR status, 6-month postdiagnostic weight change, interaction between ER status and tamoxifen therapy, and interaction between age and TNM stage. The internal validation yielded C-statistics of 0.76, 0.74, 0.78, and 0.75 for 5-year DFS, 10-year DFS, 5-year OS, and 10-year OS, respectively. The external validation yielded C-statistics of 5- and 10-year OS both at 0.78 for Chinese ethnicity, 0.79 for East Asian ethnicity, and 0.75 and 0.76 for all ethnic groups combined. Conclusion We developed prediction models for breast cancer prognosis from a large prospective study. Our prognostic models performed very well in women from the United States-particularly in Asian American women-and demonstrated high prediction accuracy and generalizability.
Using a Four-Phased Process When Implementing a Multisite Simulation Study

Abstract Multisite simulation studies are critical in nursing research as they allow researchers to obtain larger sample sizes, however, many components need to be addressed to ensure adequate compliance with research protocols. Multisite studies are important in research as they help promote generalizability. Many components go into successfully conducting multisite simulation studies. The purpose of this paper is to describe how the four-phase process of planning, project development, study execution, and dissemination of study findings were contributed to the success of this multisite simulation study. Locating sites that met inclusion criteria, keeping consistent communication with all sites, and ensuring that participants strictly follow the research protocol to maintain simulation fidelity were found to be important components of success in multisite studies.
[Patients' anxiety in intensive care units and its related factors].

Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe patients' anxiety in the ICU and to investigate related factors on the anxiety level. Methods An exploratory cross-sectional survey design was used. Forty-eight patients participated in the study. Questionnaires were asked to patients who had been cared in the ICUs. Results Related to the anxiety level, the mean of the total anxiety score was 5.47, and 60% of the patients had moderate or severe level of anxiety. Patients from the coronary care unit had a significantly higher level of anxiety than those from surgical intensive care unit or pulmonary surgery care unit. Moreover, significantly different levels of anxiety were found among patients who had been stayed for 2, 3, or 4 days. Conclusion Patients who were from the coronary care unit or had been stayed longer (up to 4 days) in the ICU were significantly associated with higher anxiety level.
Nutrient pollution alters the gut microbiome of a territorial reef fish

Human-induced nutrient pollution threatens coral reefs worldwide. Although eutrophication disrupts coral microbiomes, often leading to coral mortality, it is unknown whether eutrophication impacts the microbiomes of other coral reef organisms. Of particular interest are herbivorous fishes, whose algae consumption is critical in maintaining healthy corals. To examine the effects of eutrophication on fish gut microbiomes, we experimentally enriched territories of Stegastes nigricans, a predominantly herbivorous damselfish that farms turf algae. Using 16S RNA sequencing, we demonstrate that hindgut and foregut microbiomes have significantly higher alpha diversity in nutrient-enriched territories as compared to unenriched controls. S. nigricans gut microbiomes also exhibited significantly different compositions across treatments. In contrast, these changes were not observed in the microbiomes of the turf algae consumed by S. nigricans, indicating that the gut microbiome changes were autochthonous. Combined, our results provide a novel example of endogenous microbial shifts in wild vertebrates caused by simulated anthropogenic stress.
Surface Epithelial Tumors: Clinical Introduction

This chapter describes the important clinical aspects of epithelial ovarian neoplasms. The greatest risk factors for developing ovarian cancer are BRCA1 or BRCA2mutations and Lynch syndrome. The best method for obtaining a definitive diagnosis is surgical. Accurate intraoperative frozen section assessment is crucial; these frozen section results often determine the extent of the surgical procedure. If the frozen section result is malignancy, then a comprehensive staging procedure is required. This chapter outlines the most common diagnoses made on frozen section and includes key questions to be addressed by the pathologist at the time of frozen section assessment for masses confined to the adnexa(e) or with presumed metastasis. Since the decision whether or not to give adjuvant chemotherapy is directly related to stage at diagnosis and the grade of the tumor, this chapter provides pathologists with a list of key questions to assist in this determination.
“Differentiated citizenship” and the persistence of informal rural credit systems in Amazonia

Abstract In the Brazilian Amazon, the long-distance river trading system known as aviamento has linked commodity producers in remote areas to markets in urban centers since the colonial period. Based on a case study from the rural municipality of Labrea, this article explores continuities and changes in river trading from the point view of riverine residents and river traders. Geographic isolation and seasonal productive needs continued people’s dependence on river traders in 2008–2009, but they had greater choices due to increased access to information, mobility, and alternate markets. Expanded citizenship rights provided access to the vote and to education and other government services, but in a “differentiated” manner that still excluded many rural Amazonians. Given that agroindustry is currently the economic focus for Amazonian development, instead of forest product extraction, these rural producers continued to be forced to rely on informal river traders to meet their needs.
COORDINATION, FRAGILITY, HIGH-POWERED MONEY, AND THE LIQUIDITY TRAP: A "TOBINESQUE" PARABLE

This paper provides a simple model of fragility in which recession, triggered by demand for high-powered money, generates a liquidity trap. Moreover, in this liquidity trap parable, it is its assured store of value that is the critical attribute of high-powered money and not, perhaps, "liquidity services" per se at all. Thus, a rather "Tobinesque" liquidity trap is portrayed. The crucial ingredients in the model are simple, standard forms of production complementarities.
Patient relocation in the 6 months after hip fracture: risk factors for fragmented care.

Outcomes of hip fracture, which occurs in approximately 340,000 adults annually,1 are poor, despite most patients having access to an extended period of post-hospital care and rehabilitation covered by Medicare. In recent studies, 44% of patients developed one or more new permanent activity of daily living (ADL) limitations within 3 months after hip fracture,2 and mortality was 13.5% by 6 months after hip fracture.3 Fragmentation in care delivery after hip fracture may be a barrier to achievement of optimal outcomes. Patients receive care at multiple sites, in part influenced by Medicare payment policies. Short hospital lengths of stay result in a substantial proportion of patients being discharged with active clinical problems,4 and the majority of hip fracture patients are discharged to rehabilitation hospitals and nursing facilities.3 Many patients subsequently undertake an additional residential transition to home or to another setting for long-term care. Fluctuations in patients’ medical and functional status over time further exacerbate care fragmentation. Nearly one-third of hip fracture patients experience an acute illness that requires hospital readmission within 6 months of initial hospital discharge.5 Although hip fracture patients experience transitions between multiple care sites, including hospitals, rehabilitation units, nursing home units, and home, the incidence and patterns of relocation associated with hip fracture have not been well characterized. Studies have examined outcomes of hip fracture patients discharged to different postacute care locations,6–8 but studies that describe patterns of relocation during an episode of care are limited.9,10 The American Geriatrics Society11 and others12–14 have identified the care transition as a frequently poorly executed process with potentially harmful consequences for patients, and others have documented gaps in preventive care after hip fracture that care fragmentation might influence.15,16 Examination of patterns of care transitions is an important first step in identifying and preventing adverse consequences of transitions between care sites. The objectives of this study were to describe the incidence and patterns of relocation during the care of patients with hip fracture, identify factors associated with patient relocation, and examine possible adverse effects of relocation on outcomes after hip fracture. It was hypothesized that patient relocation is common after hip fracture and that it occurs in recognizable patterns. If relocations have the potential to cause harm, an association between number or pattern of relocations and physical function or mortality may be detectable. Finally, a subgroup of patients with greater risk of relocation may be a candidate group to target with intensive care coordination and care planning interventions.
Stability robustness bounds and robust stability for linear systems with structured uncertainty

Studies the robust stability of linear systems with highly structured uncertainty. A unified approach is proposed to obtain stability robustness bounds for structured uncertainty. A new set of robustness bounds, which unifies and improves previous well-known results, is obtained. As applications, a new set of robust stability conditions for a few classes of perturbed systems are derived.
Sr3ZnPtO6 and Sr3CdPtO6

The flux synthesis of single crystals of the isostructural compounds tristrontium zinc platinum hexaoxide, Sr3ZnPtO6, and tristrontium cadmium platinum hexaoxide, Sr3CdPtO6, is reported. The compounds adopt the pseudo-one-dimensional rhombohedral K4CdCl6 structure type, and feature chains of face-shared distorted ZnO6 or CdO6 trigonal prisms and PtO6 octahedra, surrounded by columns of Sr2+ ions. All transition metals are located on the threefold axis of symmetry, while the Sr2+ cations lie on twofold axes.
Relation between fractal dimension and performance of vector quantization

This paper shows that the performance of a vector quantizer is related to the intrinsic ("fractal") dimension of the data set for a perfectly self-similar object. Experiments are performed to confirm the result on synthetic and real data sets. Further to verify the result, we computed the slope and compared it to the estimate of the fractal dimension obtained using the correlation integral. However, the computation of the correlation fractal dimension is linear on the number of data points and significantly faster than vector quantization.
Conceptual design for sub-sea power supplies for extremely long motor lead applications

This paper describes one concept for providing electrical power from a surface generated power source to a sub-sea, medium voltage motor(s) in water depths up to 10000 feet, and up to 10 miles away from the source. Continuous and instantaneous voltage regulation becomes an absolute necessity to maintain proper motor input voltages for these extremely long motor lead applications, due to the very large change in voltage drop between no-load and full load in the feeder cable. The heart of the design concept is a state of the art medium voltage VFD, which can handle voltages from 2.4 kV up to 7.2 kV. It also has the capability to continuously change both the frequency as well as voltage, on the output side upon command. Best of all, this unique medium voltage VFD technology eliminates most of the problems usually attributed to VFD's, such as harmonics and load sensitive power factors on the front-end, plus "ringing" problems associated with the use of fast switching IGBTs in the inverter of pulse width modulation type VFDs, so no special filtering or isolation is required on either end, no matter how long the motor lead is. This VFD technology essentially turns an AC motor into a DC motor, which allows the use of a 1 to 1 ratio of generator capacity to motor(s) capacity, which is highly desirable for single motor applications. This will really help save on weight, space and the high costs associated with any offshore platform type of application.
A framework for estimating dynamic, unobserved effects panel data models with possible feedback to future explanatory variables

Abstract I show how to construct the likelihood function for the conditional maximum likelihood estimator in dynamic, unobserved effects models where not all conditioning variables are strictly exogenous. The method for handling the initial conditions problem appears to be novel, and offers a flexible, relatively simple alternative to existing methods.
Can Farmers of Burkina Faso Use Seasonal Rainfall Forecasts

In this article we bring anthropological reflections to bear on a recent event we participated in, whereby farmers and scientists came together to discuss the possibility of applying rainfall seasonal forecasts to improve agricultural production and livelihood security in West Africa. In so doing, We also report on the research findings from the project that organized this encounter and that we have been working with for the last three years. Our intent is to highlight the complexities and challenges inherent in this process of integrating scientific information and farmers' production decisions, while also pointing to practical issues to be considered in implementing such initiatives.
Identifying constructs and criteria for the diagnosis of premature ejaculation: implication for making errors of classification

OBJECTIVES To review the many definitions of premature ejaculation (PE), determine the essential elements that best define PE, and examine and discuss the consequences of errors of inclusion and exclusion in the diagnosis of PE. METHODS We reviewed recent evidenced-based studies that delineate the variables that best define PE, and the relationships between these factors. We then assessed the consequences of errors of measurement, inclusion and exclusion for setting the thresholds for the three variables. RESULTS PE can best be defined by a multidimensional set of criteria composed of three essential elements: (i) intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT); (ii) a lack of perceived self-efficacy or control about the timing of ejaculation; and (iii) distress and interpersonal difficulty related to the ejaculatory dysfunction. After delineating the variables, thresholds for each variable need to be determined. Carefully constructed thresholds attempt to minimize errors of inclusion and exclusion. However, even the best criteria cannot eliminate all error. The two types of errors in classification are, to some extent, inversely related: the more restrictive the criteria, the more likely that there will be errors of exclusion, whereas the more lenient the criteria the more likely there will be errors of inclusion. CONCLUSION Research and treatment protocols might use different threshold values for classification, as their goals might be different. For a PE research protocol, we suggest erring on the side of a more narrow definition as it would: (i) provide a more conservative, and we think, realistic prevalence of the disorder; (ii) help to establish PE as a bona fide sexual dysfunction rather than a 'life-style' issue for men seeking to enhance their sexual life; (iii) ensure greater confidence in the efficacy of existing and new treatment approaches; and (iv) strengthen the likelihood of acceptance by the regulatory authorities. Conversely, standard treatment protocols for PE might use more lenient criteria if the treatment has minimal adverse events and the degree of distress of the sufferer is high.
Winter Flounder "Antifreeze" Proteins: Synthesis and Ice Growth Inhibition of Analogs that Probe the Relative Importance of Hydrophobic and Hydrogen-Bonding Interactions

Two series of mutant polypeptides of the type I, 37-residue winter flounder “antifreeze” protein have been synthesized and analyzed by nanoliter osmometry, the “ice hemisphere” test, measurement of ice growth hysteresis and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. In series 1 peptides the central two threonines and all four threonines of the native protein were mutated to serine. In series 2 peptides two additional salt bridges (K7, E11 and K29, E33) were incorporated, and all four threonine residues in this sequence were mutated simultaneously to each of serine, valine, alanine, and glycine, respectively. The CD studies showed that all mutants are 100% helical in structure at low temperature, except for the glycine derivative which was estimated to be 70% α-helical. Dilute solutions of serine-substituted series 1 peptides showed no detectable, nonbasal faceting, or hysteresis behavior, indicating either no or extremely weak interaction with ice. The analogous serine-substituted mutant in series 2, as well a...
Terphenyl crowns: a new family of receptors containing ethereal canopies that direct potassium cation onto benzenoid platforms for cation―π interactions

We have synthesized three simple and versatile terphenyl crowns (TC) receptors containing ethereal canopies that direct a potassium cation for efficient cation–π interactions as established by 1H NMR spectroscopy and by isolation and X-ray crystallography of their K+ salts.
A sociotechnical exploration of infrastructural middleware development

While previous CSCW research has noted that computer scientists have their own research interests pertaining to cyberinfrastructure development projects, most have focused on the research imperatives of scientists. This qualitative, interview-based study investigates the perspective of computer scientists developing middleware software for cyberinfrastructures at two supercomputing centers. This paper examines how technologists develop and sustain middleware applications over time by leveraging expertise and partnering with different research domains in order to achieve long-term infrastructural goals.
Batch production time in a multi-stage system with material-handling consideration

In many production systems, batch jobs exist in the form of multiple, identical components. To facilitate movement between machines and simultaneous processing on several machines through several stages, the batch is usually split into unit loads or sub-lots. Such an operating mode improves resource utilization and batch completion time. Despite these benefits, published research dealing with the planning and control of unit-load-based manufacturing systems is still in the embryonic stage. In this paper, a model for the planning of production of a batch job through a multi-stage production system with multiple heterogeneous but functionally similar machines per stage is presented. The objective pursued is the minimization of batch manufacturing time. A dynamic programming based heuristic algorithm is developed for seeking a solution to the model. An example problem is described to demonstrate the procedure. The effect of changes in material-handling times, processing times, set-up times, and preparatory t...
A different convergence proof of the projective method for linear programming

We give a different proof of convergence of the polynomial-time algorithm for linear programming based on projective transformations.
Photoprotons from Oxygen

The cross section and angular distribution of the ${\mathrm{O}}^{16}(\ensuremath{\gamma}, p){\mathrm{N}}^{15}$ reaction have been obtained for photon energies between 13.5 and 18.7 Mev, i.e., below the expected position of the giant resonance. The angular distribution indicated that the reaction proceeded predominantly through electric quadrupole or magnetic dipole absorption of photons, even though electric dipole transitions are allowed by isotopic spin selection rules. Suggestions are made regarding this forbiddenness of electric dipole absorption.
Age, Evolution, and Dispersion of the Loose Groups of Blue Stars in the Northeast Radio Lobe of Centaurus A

The association of shocked gas and loose groups of young stars in the northeast radio lobe of Centaurus A (NGC 5128) provides direct evidence for shock-induced star formation. In this paper, we present UBV photometry of the blue stars based on observations made with the 2.5 m du Pont Telescope at Las Campanas Observatory. In a field covering 88 × 88, three groups are identified. Color-magnitude and color-color diagrams are plotted for each group. Two-color photometry of the many foreground field stars belonging to our own Galaxy indicates a foreground reddening EB-V = 0.14 mag ± 0.02 mag. The new photometry is compared with that carried out in a small section of the field with the Hubble Space Telescope. The HST frames, in conjunction with the ground-based material allow compact star clusters to be identified, some of which are exciting small H II regions. Positions, finding charts, and photometry are given for 50 stars with V < 23.0 mag and (B-V) < 0.4 mag. The brightest blue star, at V = 19.94 mag, has an estimated absolute visual magnitude MV = -8.2 mag, which is comparable to that of the brightest A-type supergiants in the Large Magellanic Cloud. Most of the blue stars lie just inside the 1.4 GHz contours of the large-scale jetlike feature recently detected by Morganti et al. It is suggested that rather than being a component of the jet that powers the radio lobes, this feature, which resembles a spiral arm of a normal galaxy, results from compression of ambient gas by the jet. Bolometric magnitudes and effective temperatures are derived for the bright blue stars and plotted. Isochrones based on the Geneva evolutionary tracks are fitted and indicate a significant age spread for the stars extending up to 15 million years. The older stars are distributed more widely than the younger stars indicating that star formation extends over time and that the blue stars eventually disperse into the extended stellar envelope of the galaxy.
Resurgence or Deterioration? The State of Cultural Unions in the 21st Century

The twenty-first century has brought crisis to organized labor in the United States—membership is diminishing, political influence is declining, and attitudes regarding unions are growing increasingly hostile. Cultural unions—which organize actors, musicians, and performers—have also seen shifts in influence and power. This article explores the contemporary state of two cultural unions. Both unions formed as bargaining agents for performing artists over 100 years ago. Through the lens of collective action theory, it is argued that the philosophy behind the initial development of the unions played a key role in the ability for success in the twenty-first century.
A compact filament-driven multicusp ion source

Abstract A compact filament-driven multicusp ion source has been studied using both hydrogen and helium. Three aspects of the source have been investigated: hydrogen ion species, axial energy spread and extractable current. An atomic ion fraction (H+) of approximately 30% could be obtained with a discharge power of 80 V and 3 A. A magnetic analyzer was used to determine the axial energy spread of the extracted (i.e. accelerated) ion beam species, and an electrostatic energy analyzer was used to determine the energy spread of the ions at the source exit. The energy spread of the extracted beam for the individual species of positive hydrogen ions (H+, H2+, H3+) and that for the negative hydrogen ions (H−) was measured as well. Energy spreads as low as 2.3 eV were obtained for H+, 2 eV for H2+, 1.7 eV for H3+, and 1 eV for H−. The axial energy spread in the source exit without extraction for hydrogen and helium was measured to be approximately 1 eV for both cases. The source can generate a hydrogen beam current density of approximately 12 mA/cm2.
Field-Ion Microscope Observations of Indirect Interaction between Adatoms on Metal Surfaces

From field-ion microscope kinetic and equilibrium experiments with rhenium adatoms on W(110) planes it is found that the interaction potential energy between two adatoms exhibits an oscillatory behavior. The cohesive energy between two adatoms is very small, only \ensuremath{\sim}0.16 eV at the closest separation. These observations are in general agreement with the indirect adatom interaction models as proposed and discussed by various investigators.
Observations of boll weevil midgut when fed natural food or on bacterially contaminated artificial diet

Abstract Boll weevils fed natural food had normal midgut morphology, but weevils fed bacterially contaminated artificial diet had deteriorated midguts which became progressively less functional with continued feeding on the diet. Reversal of the conditions occurred when the weevils were returned to natural food. This recovery did not take place, however, if the deterioration was too advanced. All strains of boll weevils had similar midgut responses. Cellular destruction in the midgut and loss of tissue function led to typical symptoms of starvation and desiccation during the first 10 days of adult life. Continued feeding upon contaminated food resulted in premature death. These observations show the importance of sanitation in mass-rearing procedures. It also may provide an explanation for subnormal boll weevil quality as reported by other authors who measured longevity, pheromone, and fatty acid production.
Innate immune performance and steroid hormone profiles of pregnant versus nonpregnant cottonmouth snakes (Agkistrodon piscivorus).

Abstract Squamates (lizards and snakes) have independently evolved viviparity over 100 times, and exhibit a wide range of maternal investment in developing embryos from the extremes of lecithotrophic oviparity to matrotrophic viviparity. This group therefore provides excellent comparative opportunities for studying endocrine and immune involvement during pregnancy, and their possible interactions. We studied the cottonmouth ( Agkistrodon piscivorus ), since they exhibit limited placentation (e.g., ovoviviparity), allowing comparison with squamate species hypothesized to require considerable maternal immune modulation due to the presence of a more extensive placental connection. Furthermore, the cottonmouth’s biennial reproductive cycle provides an opportunity for simultaneously comparing pregnant and non-pregnant females in the wild. We document significantly elevated concentrations of progesterone (P4) and significantly lower concentrations of estradiol (E2) in pregnant females relative to non-pregnant females. Pregnant females had lower plasma bacteria lysis capacity relative to non-pregnant females. This functional measure of innate immunity is a proxy for complement performance, and we also determined significant correlations between P4 and decreased complement performance in pregnant females. These findings are consistent with studies that have determined P4’s role in complement modulation during pregnancy in mammals, and thus this study joins a growing number of studies that have demonstrated convergent and/or conserved physiological mechanisms regulating viviparous reproduction in vertebrates.
Effect of anions on the catalytic activity of pig liver glycolic acid oxidase

Abstract 1. 1. Pig liver glycolic acid oxidase (glycolate: O2 oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.3.1) can function with either 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol (DCIP) (ν max = 1250 moles of glycolate per mole of flavin per min ) or O2 (ν max = 620 moles of glycolate per mole of flavin per min ) 9,10 as the electron acceptor. 2. 2. Straight-chain monocarboxylic acids are non-competitive inhibitors of this enzyme with either glycolate or glyoxalate as the variable substrate and DCIP as the electron acceptor. Dicarboxylic acids are competitive inhibitors when glycolate is the variable substrate but they are non-competitive inhibitors when glyoxalate is the variable substrate. Phosphate and arsenate cause enzyme activation. 3. 3. The binding affinity of the enzyme for monocarboxylic acids is proportional to the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl residue ( n ), and a straight line is obtained when log K i is plotted versus n. These results suggest that electrostatic and hydrophobic forces, associated with a positive charge and a hydrophobic region at the active site, contribute to the binding affinity of monocarboxylic acids. 4. 4. The binding affinity of the enzyme for oxalate is surprisingly high when compared with monocarboxylic acids. A decreased binding affinity is observed for other dicarboxylic acids as the number of carbon atoms increases. These results suggest that the complex of the enzyme with oxalate involves electrostatic interaction of both carboxylate groups of oxalate with two adjacent positively charged groups at the active site. A similar bidentate complex may explain the binding affinity of the enzyme for α-hydroxy acid substrates. 5. 5. Conditions under which non-competitive inhibition can approximate competitive inhibition are discussed to account for differences in the inhibition patterns observed when glycolate and glyoxalate are used as the variable substrate.
Effects of Serotonin Antagonists in Normal Subjects and Patients with Carcinoid Tumors

The pathogenesis of flushing attacks in patients with malignant carcinoid tumors is attributed to the direct pharmacologic effect of excessive amounts of circulating serotonin. It was hoped that potent serotonin antagonists might relieve symptoms of the carcinoid syndrome in the inoperable patient. The nature of flushing attacks was studied in carcinoid patients and the influence thereon of 3 serotonin antagonists, a benzyl analog of serotonin, bromo-lysergic acid diethylamide, and chlorpromazine. The systemic, subjective, and vascular effects of these antagonists in normal subjects were also investigated.
Changes in physiological attributes of ponderosa pine from seedling to mature tree

Plant physiological models are generally parameterized from many difference sources of data, including chamber experiments and plantations, from seedlings to mature trees. We obtained a comprehensive data set for a natural stand of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Laws.) and used these data to parameterize the physiologically based model, TREGRO. Representative trees of each of five tree age classes were selected based on population means of morphological, physiological, and nearest neighbor attributes. Differences in key physiological attributes (gas exchange, needle chemistry, elongation growth, needle retention) among the tree age classes were tested. Whole-tree biomass and allocation were determined for seedlings, saplings, and pole-sized trees. Seasonal maxima and minima of gas exchange were similar across all tree age classes. Seasonal minima and a shift to more efficient water use were reached one month earlier in seedlings than in older trees because of decreased soil water availability in the rooting zone of the seedlings. However, carbon isotopic discrimination of needle cellulose indicated increased water-use efficiency with increasing tree age. Seedlings had the lowest needle and branch elongation biomass growth. The amount of needle elongation growth was highest for mature trees and amount of branch elongation growth was highest for saplings. Seedlings had the highest biomass allocation to roots, saplings had the highest allocation to foliage, and pole-sized trees had the highest allocation to woody tissues. Seedlings differed significantly from pole-sized and older trees in most of the physiological traits tested. Predicted changes in biomass with tree age, simulated with the model TREGRO, closely matched those of trees in a natural stand to 30 years of age.
Polyprotein processing in picornavirus replication

The primary translation product of the picornavirus genome is a single large protein which is processed to the mature viral polypeptides by progressive, co- and post-translational cleavages. Replication of the picornaviruses is thus entirely dependent upon the proteolysis of viral precursor proteins. In poliovirus, two virus-encoded proteinases have been identified that catalyze all but the final cleavage of the viral polyprotein. The final processing event, maturation of the virion polypeptide VPO, appears to occur by an unusual autocatalytic serine proteinase-like mechanism. Proteolytic processing of viral precursor proteins is basically similar in all picornaviruses, but recently it has become clear that there are also important differences between these viruses. Understanding of the processing events in picornavirus replication may ultimately lead to the discovery of specific inhibitors of the viral enzymes that could prove clinically useful as anti-viral agents.
Automatic Data Processing

The problems of reducing telemetry signals from scientific earth satellites are assessed and an account is given of the factors governing the establishment of an automatic processing sequence. Some of the special features of the steps in this sequence are detailed, and an indication is given of the evolution in philosophy which has taken place since processing experience has accumulated. Final mention is given to some of the problems awaiting solution together with some of the plans under development for solving them.
The Effect of Germination on the Alkaloid Content of Nigella damascena Seed

Abstract A sensitive fluorometric procedure for the quantitative determination of damascenine was developed. A plication of the method to the viable seeds and to the germinated seedlings and seedcoats of Nigella damascena revealed that the alkaloid is metabolically inert. It failed to disa pear from the testas during germination and was not formed in the etiolated seedlings. Paper partition chromatography was utilized to verify the identity and homogeneity of damascenine.
Relationship between Tumor DNA Methylation Status and Patient Characteristics in African-American and European-American Women with Breast Cancer

Aberrant DNA methylation is critical for development and progression of breast cancer. We investigated the association of CpG island methylation in candidate genes and clinicopathological features in 65 African-American (AA) and European-American (EA) breast cancer patients. Quantitative methylation analysis was carried out on bisulfite modified genomic DNA and sequencing (pyrosequencing) for promoter CpG islands of p16, ESR1, RASSF1A, RARβ2, CDH13, HIN1, SFRP1 genes and the LINE1 repetitive element using matched paired non-cancerous and breast tumor specimen (32 AA and 33 EA women). Five of the genes, all known tumor suppressor genes (RASSF1A, RARβ2, CDH13, HIN1 and SFRP1), were found to be frequently hypermethylated in breast tumor tissues but not in the adjacent non-cancerous tissues. Significant differences in the CDH13 methylation status were observed by comparing DNA methylation between AA and EA patients, with more obvious CDH13 methylation differences between the two patient groups in the ER- disease and among young patients (age<50). In addition, we observed associations between CDH13, SFRP1, and RASSF1A methylation and breast cancer subtypes and between SFRP1 methylation and patient's age. Furthermore, tumors that received neoadjuvant therapy tended to have reduced RASSF1A methylation when compared with chemotherapy naive tumors. Finally, Kaplan Meier survival analysis showed a significant association between methylation at 3 loci (RASSF1A, RARβ2 and CDH13) and reduced overall disease survival. In conclusion, the DNA methylation status of breast tumors was found to be significantly associated with clinicopathological features and race/ethnicity of the patients.
A global perspective on the environmental impact of golf

The sport of golf has grown tremendously in the past three decades. It is now the leading sport in the world in terms of total economic expenditure, yet surprising little on golf has appeared in the academic sports studies literature. In particular, the impact of golf on the environment has been virtually absent from discussion. Golf takes place in the outdoors, yet golf course development and maintenance has involved many aspects that are deleterious to the environment. This article charts the impact of golf on the environment from an international perspective, particularly noting emerging differences in first and developing world countries.
Differences in Cardiac Management of Children by Pediatricians and Pediatric Cardiologists. † 526

To investigate the expanded role pediatricians have been encouraged to take for the evaluation and management of pediatric cardiac disease, we compared cardiac evaluation and management by pediatricians with pediatric cardiologists. We retrospectively reviewed all 69 BCH pediatric inpatients with a cardiac consult or echocardiogram from 11/94-10/95. 40 were evaluated and managed by a pediatrician (P) with access to echo- & electrocardiograms (no consult), and 29 were evaluated by a pediatric cardiologist (consult) but managed by a P. Cardiac management was reviewed for recommendations for: 1) cardiology follow-up; 2) medications; 3) family meeting: and 4) further procedures (electrophysiology study, Holter, tilt table, catheterization, or cardiac surgery). Data for all study patients (clinical, ECG, CXR, and echo results) were retrospectively reviewed and recommendations made by two pediatric cardiologists (PC1 & PC2) blinded to the consult status, actual management and clinical outcome of the patient. The frequency of recommendations of PC1 & PC2 were compared to each other and to the actual management as summarized below. PC1 & PC2 recommended all actions at a higher rate than the pediatricians; the discrepancy was consistent regardless of the initial cardiac consult status. PC1 & PC2 agreed with the pediatricians at a slightly lower rate than they did between themselves; the major discordance came when the pediatricians recommended no action. Although the clinical significance of these differences warrants further investigation, 2 questions are raised: 1) if concordance by PC1 and PC2 represents the gold standard for management, and they made many more recommendations than the P for the same patients, what is the need for these additional recommendations since there was not an apparent difference in outcome with limited follow-up; and 2) can pediatricians, with appropriate training and supervision, play an expanded role in the evaluation and management of pediatric cardiac disease?
Identification and Structural Characterization of the ALIX-Binding Late Domains of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus SIVmac239 and SIVagmTan-1

Retroviral Gag proteins contain short late-domain motifs that recruit cellular ESCRT pathway proteins to facilitate virus budding. ALIX-binding late domains often contain the core consensus sequence YPXnL (where Xn can vary in sequence and length). However, some simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) Gag proteins lack this consensus sequence, yet still bind ALIX. We mapped divergent, ALIX-binding late domains within the p6Gag proteins of SIVmac239 (40SREKPYKEVTEDLLHLNSLF59) and SIVagmTan-1 (24AAGAYDPARKLLEQYAKK41). Crystal structures revealed that anchoring tyrosines (in lightface) and nearby hydrophobic residues (underlined) contact the ALIX V domain, revealing how lentiviruses employ a diverse family of late-domain sequences to bind ALIX and promote virus budding.
CHARACTERIZATION OF THE SWINE SEX ODOR (SSO) COMPONENTS IN BOAR FAT VOLATILES

SUMMARY —Investigations were undertaken to characterize the volatiles collected from heated boar fat, particularly those components responsible for swine sex odor (SSO). Boar fat volatiles were collected by heating (to 150°C) the ground carcass fat in an all glass distillation apparatus with a liquid nitrogen trap attached. The condensed moisture and liquid nitrogen trap contents were combined and continuously extracted for 48 hr with diethyl ether. The ether was evaporated on a steam bath and the residue subjected to olfactory-gas chromatographic analysis by using a heated collection vent and a flame ionization detector. Using this analytical technique, a perspiration-like odor was detected resembling the SSO that normally emanates from heated boar fat. Further analysis using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer unit gave a molecular ion of 272 for this peak and major fragmentation ions identical to a 5a-androst-16-en-3-one standard. This standard was obtained by chromic acid oxidation of 3a-hydroxy-5a-androst-16-ene. Other types of odors were also noted in the boar fat volatile mixture, including those resembling perfume, wood, onion, musk and “Ivory” soap. This research demonstrated the presence of a unique smelling steroid accounting for the perspiration-like odor of heated boar fat. Furthermore, it has shown that the SSO component can be isolated directly from boar adipose tissue at normal cooking temperatures and atmospheric pressure.
Preventable or potentially preventable mortality at a mature trauma center.

Objective:The objective of this study was to analyze the preventable and potentially preventable deaths occurring at a mature Level I trauma center.Methods:All trauma patients that died during their initial hospital admission during an 8-year period (January, 1998 to December, 2005) were analyzed. T
Flight effects on noise from coaxial dual flow. II - Heated jets

This paper is a continuation of the study described in Part I and deals with the flight effects on noise from heated jets. The present work shows that coaxial exhaust flows with inverted profiles are much quieter than flows with conventional profiles. Among all possible coaxial configurations with only one of the streams heated conventional profile, inverted profile, and the variable stream control engine (VSCE) cycle - and holding constant mass flow and thrust, a VSCE cycle is the best possible engine cycle as it provides over 18-dB reduction in sound pressure level (as compared to noise from a conventional profile cycle) at all angles, both statically and in flight. The study also indicates that, if both the coaxial streams are heated unequally, a duct-burning profile, combined with the variable stream control engine (DB-VSCE) concept, gives rise to a powerful coaxial device which generates the least noise, both statically and in flight. This concept will be of paramount importance as one of the most variable nozzle designs of the future.
Performance Comparison of Volterra Predictor and Neural Network for Breathing Prediction

During radiation treatment of lung cancer patients, synchronization of treatment devices and tumor position has been a challenging task due to breathing-induced tumor motion and treatment device latency. One method to mitigate the impact of system latency is to determine the future tumor position. Breathing prediction presents a methodology to determine future tumor position indirectly. Different types of neural networks have been used to predict breathing behavior, but these networks are not able to adapt well to the irregular transient patterns in breathing dynamics. This paper utilizes a second order Volterra predictor for predicting regular and highly irregular breathing behaviors. This paper also compares the performance of Volterra predictor with that of a feed-forward backpropagation network. The results showed that the adaptive performance of the Volterra predictor is not significantly different from that of the neural network for all the breathing cases used in the study, and its ability to adapt to transient behavior greatly outperforms that of neural networks.