cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combining WMAP and SDSS Quasar Data on Reionization Constrains Cosmological Parameters and the Star Formation Efficiency

We present constraints on cosmological and star formation parameters based on combining observations of the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) and high-redshift quasars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). We use a semi-analytic model for reionization (Chiu and Ostriker 2000) that takes into account a number of important physical processes both within collapsing halos and in the intergalactic medium. Assuming that the efficiency of producing UV photons per baryon is constant, we derive a constraint of the form sigma_8 Omega_0^0.5~0.33 in a flat, Lambda-dominated universe with h=0.72, n=0.99, and Omega_b h^2=0.024. However, the calculated optical depth to electron scattering of tau_es~0.06 is well below the value found by WMAP of 0.17+/-(0.04~0.07) (Spergel et al 2003). Since the WMAP constraints on tau_es are somewhat degenerate with the value of the spectral index n, we then permit the primordial spectral index n to float and fix Omega_0 h^2=0.14, while normalizing the power spectrum using WMAP. In addition, we allow the UV-efficiency to have time-dependence. Combining the WMAP constraints with the quasar transmission data, our analysis then favors a model with tau_es=0.11^{+0.02}_{-0.03}, n=0.96^{+0.02}_{-0.03}$, implying sigma_8=0.83^{+0.03}_{-0.05} (95% confidence), and an effective UV-efficiency that was at least ~10x greater at z >> 6. These results indicate that the quasar and WMAP observations are consistent. If future observations confirm an optical depth to electron scattering tau_es~0.1, then it would appear that no more "exotic" sources of UV-photons, such as mini-quasars or AGNs, are necessary; but our analysis indicates that a determination of tau_es>~0.17 would require a more radical solution.
An excursion-set model for the structure of giant molecular clouds and the interstellar medium

The interstellar medium (ISM) is governed by supersonic turbulence on a range of scales. We use this simple fact to develop a rigorous excursion-set model for the formation, structure and time evolution of dense gas structures [e.g. giant molecular clouds (GMCs), massive clumps and cores]. Supersonic turbulence drives the density distribution in non-self-gravitating regions to a lognormal with dispersion increasing with Mach number. We generalize this to include scales ≳h (the disc scale-height), and use it to construct the statistical properties of the density field smoothed on a scale R. We then compare conditions for self-gravitating collapse including thermal, turbulent and rotational (disc shear) support (reducing to the Jeans/Toomre criterion on small/large scales). We show that this becomes a well-defined barrier crossing problem. As such, an exact ‘bound object mass function’ can be derived, from scales of the sonic length to well above the disc Jeans mass. This agrees remarkably well with observed GMC mass functions in the Milky Way and other galaxies, with the only inputs being the total mass and size of the galaxies (to normalize the model). This explains the cut-off of the mass function and its power-law slope (close to, but slightly shallower than, −2). The model also predicts the linewidth–size and size–mass relations of clouds and the dependence of residuals from these relations on mean surface density/pressure, in excellent agreement with observations. We use this to predict the spatial correlation function/clustering of clouds and, by extension, star clusters; these also agree well with observations. We predict the size/mass function of ‘bubbles’ or ‘holes’ in the ISM, and show that this can account for the observed H i hole distribution without requiring any local feedback/heating sources. We generalize the model to construct time-dependent ‘merger/fragmentation trees’ which can be used to follow cloud evolution and construct semi-analytic models for the ISM, GMCs and star-forming populations. We provide explicit recipes to construct these trees. We use a simple example to show that if clouds are not destroyed in ∼1–5 crossing times, then all the ISM mass would be trapped in collapsing objects even if the large-scale turbulent cascade were maintained.
Sexual Behavior Among US Adults: New Sex Partners and Number of Lifetime Sex Partners, NHANES 2013–2016 and NSFG 2011–2015

Sexual behavior information can provide context for understanding rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and inform potential impact of interventions. We used 2013–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 4930) and 2011–2015 National Survey of Family Growth (n = 16,643) data from sexually experienced 20–44-year old US females and males to estimate the number of lifetime and past year partners and percent with a new past year partner overall and by marital status, in 5-year age groups. Group differences were qualitatively assessed. Estimates from both surveys were comparable. The median number of lifetime sex partners ranged from 4.2 to 5.2 across age groups among females and was higher among older (9.1) than younger (4.6) males, persons with a new past year partner than those without, and persons widowed/divorced/separated/never married than those married/living with partner. Percents with ≥ 2 past year partners and a new past year partner were highest in the youngest age group and lower with age. Percent with a new past year partner was 19–46 percentage points higher in persons widowed/divorced/separated/never married (range 21.7–56.4%) compared to persons married/living with partner (range 2.7–12.4%). In the USA, there are differences in sexual behaviors by gender, age, and marital status. The percent of adults with a new sex partner is lower with increasing age; however, a portion of all subgroups reported having had a new sex partner in the past year indicating some adults remain at risk of acquiring an STI. These data can help inform policies for STI screening and other interventions.
Leading at the crossroads: Understanding how identity influences presidential communication for Black community college presidents

Research on leadership is historically biased, with little consideration for different experiences of leaders of color. In this study, we applied the integrated race and leadership framework (Ospina & Foldy, 2009) and utilized a case study approach focused on the context of institutional communication to analyze the experiences of six Black community college presidents. The study was guided by the overarching question of how racial identity guided what and how presidents communicated. Our findings indicate that these presidents of color viewed their communication through a social justice lens, while also recognizing their responsibility to the institution. Five themes were identified that highlight the strategies and approaches these presidents take when communicating to their campus, including: 1) a consciousness of who is listening, 2) a sense of racial battle fatigue, 3) a focus on local impact, 4) connection and support from the community, and 5) the skill of racial and social adaptation.
Impact of Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patient Attendance.

In response to Dr. Robert F. Kushners early observations in What COVID-19 is Teaching Us About Counseling for Weight Management (1), we providers at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, New York, and the Center for Weight Management at Scripps Health in San Diego, California, sought to explore the shifts in patient volume and attendance since telemedicine conversion (2). [...]obesity being a risk factor for increased COVID-19 severity could be incentivizing patients to prioritize obesity treatment (4). Disclosure: LA declared receiving consulting fees from, and serving on, advisory boards for ERX, Jamieson Laboratories, Pfizer, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, Janssen, UnitedHealth Group Ventures, and Gelesis;receiving research funding from Lilly, Janssen, Allurion, and Novo Nordisk;having an equity interest in Intellihealth, ERX, Zafgen, Gelesis, MYOS, and Jamieson Laboratories;and serving on a board of directors for MYOS, Intellihealth, and Jamieson Laboratories outside the doi: 10.1002/oby.23180 1 Division of Endocrinology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Comprehensive Weight Control Center, New York, New York, USA.
Uterus transplantation-questions and answers about the procedure that is expanding the field of solid organ transplantation

Uterus transplant is a new and rapidly evolving field of solid organ transplantation designed to help women with absolute uterine-factor infertility who desire to carry their own pregnancies. The advent of this procedure and human clinical trials of uterus transplantation have raised technical, clinical, and ethical questions. We address several questions about uterus transplantation based on available literature and the clinical experience at Baylor University Medical Center, which has the largest uterus transplant program in the United States.
Silver-impregnated hydrofiber dressing followed by delayed surgical closure for management of infants born with giant omphaloceles.

Abstract Objective We successfully employed silver-impregnated hydrofiber dressing for management of giant omphaloceles (GO) followed by delayed surgical closure. Study design Between 2005 and 2008, eight consecutive GO infants were cared for at Driscoll Children's Hospital. Four patients had additional congenital anomalies including Beckwith–Wiedemann (n=1), tetralogy of Fallot (n=1), pulmonary hypoplasia (n=1), and ruptured omphalocele (n=1). Infants underwent amnion epithelization using a silver-impregnated hydrofiber dressing over the course of several months followed by delayed surgical closure. Mean±SD of parameters including maternal age, gestational age, infant weight, size of GO, preoperative intubation, preoperative hospitalization, time to epithelization, days to surgical closure, postoperative hospitalization, postoperative intubation and months of follow-up were studied. Results Five patients underwent successful closure, 2 were lost to follow-up and 1 was lost because of withdrawal of support. The maternal age, gestation age and weight of infant were 28±5.3years, 34±4weeks and 2.5±0.62kg, respectively. The GO size was 11cm in length and 11cm in width, respectively. Preoperative hospitalization days were 78±74days. Preoperative intubation was 3.5±3.1days with 2 neonates requiring tracheostomy and home ventilation owing to additional congenital abnormalities. Time to epithelization was 2.9±0.9months. Days to surgical closure and postoperative hospitalization were 331±119days and 5±3.4days, respectively. Average follow-up was 37±27months. No treatment associated morbidities are noted. Conclusions Silver-impregnated hydrofiber mediated epithelization of GO followed by delayed surgical closure is safe for management of infants.
Pattern recognition metric for comparison of protein structures based on amino acid sequences.

Publisher Summary An increase in the number of reported protein primary sequences has increased the need to extract structural and functional information from them. This growing need has precipitated the emergence of computational methods for predicting the structure and function of a protein on the basis of its amino acid sequence. This chapter describes basic pattern recognition metric for direct comparison of protein structural patterns solely on the basis of amino acid sequences. The core of the comparison metric is easily automated because it does not require many generalized rules or subjective parameters, which might need to be optimally adjusted; instead, the metric requires only knowledge of the amino acid sequence of a protein. To overcome the limitations of predictive methods that require smoothing and the defining of structures, the comparison metric quantifies comparisons among homologous and heterologous residues between two sequences with a nonheuristic ranking approach. Because the assignment of gap penalties, like operating windows, requires a subjective judgment, gaps are not inserted to optimize the alignment of sequences before comparing them.
Toxicity to Chicks of Aspergillus and Penicillium Species Isolated from Moldy Pecans

Isolates of Aspergillus chevalieri, A. flavus, A. ochraceus, A. repens, and Penicillium funiculosum and complexes of P. citrinum-P. implicatum isolated from moldy pecan meats were toxic to chicks.
The Characterization of Chemically Modified Hemoglobins III. REACTION WITH VARIOUS N-SUBSTITUTED MALEIMIDES

Abstract The reaction of three N-substituted maleimides with horse oxy and deoxyhemoglobin has been studied. In all three cases, when the reactions were carried out with oxyhemoglobin, cooperativity between subunits was abolished (n = 1.0). When deoxyhemoglobin was used, cooperativity was reduced but not eliminated (n ∼ 2). A covalent bridge was introduced between cys F9(93)β (Perutz, M. F., J. Mol. Biol., 13, 646 (1965)) and his FG4(97)β when bis(N-maleimidomethyl)ether was reacted with horse oxyhemoglobin. When bis(N-maleimidomethyl)ether was reacted with deoxyhemoglobin, alkylation of one of the maleimide rings occurred at cys F9(93)β. The other maleimide ring did not react. Thus in contrast to oxyhemoglobin, no covalent bridge was formed in the protein. N-α-(bromoacetoxymethyl)maleimide (AM) reacted with horse oxyhemoglobin to link cys F9(93)β with val NA1(1)β'. This bridge decomposed rapidly leaving a carboxymethyl group on val NA1(1)β'. In the reaction of AM with deoxyhemoglobin, the ester bond in the reagent hydrolyzed after reaction with cys F9(93)β. Alkylation of the NH2 terminus of other β chains did not occur. N-α-(acetoxymethyl)maleimide, the monofunctional analogue of AM, reacted with both oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin at cys F9(93)β. It thus appears that the structure and functional properties of the derivatives depend on the ligand state of the hemoglobin used in the reaction with the maleimides.
Teaching and Learning at a Distance: Foundations of Distance Education Michael Simonson, Sharon Smaldino, Michael Albright, and Susan Zvacek, Eds

This book provides a comprehensive, up-to-date coverage of distance education (DE). Its audience consists of instructors and administrators in higher education, K–12, or business/industry. An impor...
A clinical guideline for intrauterine device use in adolescents.

PURPOSE: To present an evidence-based review of the data for and against the use of the intrauterine device (IUD) in adolescent females and to provide guidelines for selection of appropriate candidates. DATA SOURCES: Clinical research expert opinions and systematic reviews of IUD use in adolescents. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the IUD in adolescents has been questioned in the past as a result of concerns surrounding increased risks for pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in adolescents. Current research reveals no contraindications to IUD use based solely on age or parity and illuminates many benefits to use including a decrease in menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The U.S. adolescent pregnancy rates rose from 2005 to 2007 reversing a decade-long downward trend. Adolescents need safe effective user-friendly contraceptive methods. IUDs are a safe and effective option for adolescents and provide an additional contraceptive option for nurse practitioners to offer their patients to prevent unintended pregnancy and enhance adolescent sexual health and well-being. Proper selection of candidates for IUD use can mitigate clinical and legal risks associated with IUD use. (c)2012 The Author(s) Journal compilation (c)2012 American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Stable Two-Mode Operation of a Continuous-Wave Dye Laser Using a Michelson Mode Selector.

We have studied dual-mode operation of a cw standing-wave laser using an intracavity Michelson interferometer for mode control. We have phase locked the intermode difference frequency to a laboratory-frequency synthesizer, while scanning the optical frequency many gigahertz. Alternatively, one can tune one mode differentially by ±750 kHz while the other mode remains stabilized at the kilohertz level.1 These capabilities would be decisive for certain Ramsey fringe studies using longitudinal interaction.2
Density Functionals: Where Do They Come from, Why Do They Work?

Gradient-corrected or semi-local functionals (GGA's) have achieved the accuracy required to make density functional theory a useful tool in quantum chemistry. We show that local (LSD) and semi-local functionals work because they usefully model the exchange-correlation hole around an average electron, rather than by yielding accurate results at all electron positions. We discuss the system-averaged hole at small interelectronic separations, where such functionals are extremely accurate, and at large interelectronic separations, where the local approximation is incorrect for finite systems. We argue that the “on-top” hole density provides the missing link between real atoms and molecules and the uniform electron gas. We show how exchange-correlation potentials can be related to energies. We also discuss how the degree of nonlocality, i.e., the error made by LSD, is related to the spatial extent of the hole. Decomposing the energy by coupling-constant and spin, we find that the deeper the on-top hole is, the smaller the error in the local approximation to the energy. We use this insight to demonstrate that Hartree-Fock hybrid functionals do not consistently improve on GGA. A different hybrid invokes wavefunction methods for exchange and parallel-spin correlation, but we show that configuration interaction wavefunction calculations with limited basis sets for the Ne atom make the same relative errors in the antiparallel- and parallel-spin correlation energies, despite the lack of a Coulomb cusp in the parallel-spin correlation hole. Finally, we review a recent reinterpretation of spin density functional theory, which is preferable to the standard interpretation in certain cases of extreme nonlocality.
Effect of Recruiter on Attraction to the Firm: Implications of the Elaboration Likelihood Model

The effect of recruiter behaviors on organizational attractiveness is the focus of a growing body of literature. The elaboration likelihood model (ELM) is a promising model for generating research examining how and when recruiter behaviors will influence job applicant attitudes formed during the recruitment process. In this paper, the ELM is described and considered in relation to variables that affect job applicant ability and motivation to accurately process information about organizational and job attributes and assess their fit with a firm during the recruitment process. In addition, several recruiter behaviors and characteristics known to affect applicant attraction to the firm are discussed in terms of the ELM.
Retailing to foreign national consumers in the border zone: The impact of currency devaluation and cross-border competition

Abstract This study investigates the factors that affect how retailers in a border zone manage the elements of the retail mix with respect to foreign national consumers. Several hypotheses concerning the effects of competition from foreign retailers and currency devaluation(s) on variables of the retail mix and traditional measures of perceived retailer outcomes are advanced. Results indicate that while perceptions of devaluation have an impact on the planning of the retail mix as well as on perceived retail outcome measures, competition from foreign retailers is not perceived to be an important factor. Research and managerial implications are offered.
Analysis of Response Time Distributions

Response times are one of the most commonly collected dependent measures in empirical investigations of human cognition. Issues of response time analysis are becoming more important as models are developed that make explicit predictions about the shape of the response time distribution. This chapter addresses the general problem of response time analysis. First, I present the concept that response time data form a random sample from some distribution. I discuss how random variables are characterized, defining the density, distribution, survivor and hazard functions. I pay special attention to problems of estimation, including familiar issues involving central tendency (mean) and dispersion (variance) and the effects of outliers on these statistics. I also address parameter estimation in the context of specific models of the response time distribution. Methods for obtaining empirical estimates of the distribution, density and hazard functions are presented. Finally, in the last section of the chapter, I demonstrate and discuss the use of distributional analysis in testing processing models of cognition. Keywords: distribution; estimation; model testing; modeling; statistical procedures
Current Recommendations for Systemic Therapy of Recurrent and/or Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer

For palliation of patients with recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell cancer (R/M HNSCC), the major classes of commonly used cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents are platinum agents (cisplatin, carboplatin), taxanes (paclitaxel, docetaxel), and antimetabolic agents (methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil). Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody directed against the extracellular domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor, also shows modest activity against R/M HNSCC. Because the overall management of patients with R/M HNSCC often involves multidisciplinary input, this review focuses on data that help guide decision-making in scenarios in which palliative chemotherapy is planned. Avenues for ongoing research are also presented.
Expression of the Drosophila homeobox gene, Distal-less, supports an ancestral role in neural development.

Background: Distal-less (Dll) encodes a homeodomain transcription factor expressed in developing appendages of organisms throughout metazoan phylogeny. Based on earlier observations in the limbless nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and the primitive chordate amphioxus, it was proposed that Dll had an ancestral function in nervous system development. Consistent with this hypothesis, Dll is necessary for the development of both peripheral and central components of the Drosophila olfactory system. Furthermore, vertebrate homologs of Dll, the Dlx genes, play critical roles in mammalian brain development. Results: Using fluorescent immunohistochemistry of fixed samples and multiphoton microscopy of living Drosophila embryos, we show that Dll is expressed in the embryonic, larval and adult central nervous system and peripheral nervous system (PNS) in embryonic and larval neurons, brain and ventral nerve cord glia, as well as in PNS structures associated with chemosensation. In adult flies, Dll expression is expressed in the optic lobes, central brain regions and the antennal lobes. Conclusions: Characterization of Dll expression in the developing nervous system supports a role of Dll in neural development and function and establishes an important basis for determining the specific functional roles of Dll in Drosophila development and for comparative studies of Drosophila Dll functions with those of its vertebrate counterparts. Developmental Dynamics, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clear and Present Danger: Planning and New Venture Survival Amid Political and Civil Violence

Many entrepreneurs in developing economies face unstable environments due to violence and civil unrest. Yet, we know very little about how environments characterized by high levels of political and civil violence affect new venture processes and survival. Moreover, it is unclear whether standard theories about organizational strategy, such as planning, hold true in such environments. We explore these issues using a sample of 730 new ventures in Colombia from 1997 to 2001. We find that political and civil violence decreases firm survival, increases the benefits of incremental (operational) planning, and decreases the benefits of comprehensive (strategic) planning
Modeling cavity-backed apertures conformal to prolate spheroids using the finite element-boundary integral technique

The hybrid finite element-boundary integral (FE-BI) method is used to model the effects of curvature variation on the resonant input impedance of cavity-backed aperture antennas recessed in the surfaces of prolate spheroids of varying dimensions. In order to assess the validity of these results, the resonant input impedance of the conformal antenna, for the limiting cases of zero axial and azimuthal curvatures, are compared with the resonant input impedances of cavity-backed aperture antennas conformal to cylindrical and planar surfaces, respectively. Results for the input impedance associated with a patch antenna mounted in a cavity flush with the surface of a prolate spheroid is presented.
Atomic Physics and Related Subjects.: Communications to Nature.: The Diffraction of X-Rays by Vitreous Solids and its Bearing on their Constitution.

THE diffraction of X-rays by glasses has been the subject of many investigations during the last fifteen years, notably by Scherrer, Wyckoff, and Seljakow. Scherrer obtained broad diffraction bands similar to those obtained with liquids, whilst Wyckoff obtained, in general, more complicated patterns consisting of lines, bands, or lines superimposed on bands. The latest contributors to this subject are Parmelee, Clark, and Badger (Jour. Soc. Glass Technology, 13, 285; 1929), and Clark and Amberg (ibid., p. 290), who have also obtained broad diffraction bands for silica and felspar glasses. Quite apart from the Validity of any of these measurements, no previous workers appear definitely to have identified the diffraction bands with small crystallites in the glass.
Rapid prototyping in consumer product design

Why are only certain consumer products the hot gifts to give and to get each holiday season? Last year the digital camera and the iPod portable music player (and its MP3 clones) were perhaps the leading contenders. One part of the answer is they are deliberately designed to deliver a high-quality consumer experience. Or as my colleague in Japan, Noriaki Kano of the University of Tokyo, has said about the best products, they "surprise and delight" the first wave of consumers to use them. The next part of the economic cycle is that the products are praised in design magazines and by word-of-mouth; before long they are must-have items for perhaps millions worldwide.
A Potentially Realizable Quantum Computer

Arrays of weakly coupled quantum systems might compute if subjected to a sequence of electromagnetic pulses of well-defined frequency and length. Such pulsed arrays are true quantum computers: Bits can be placed in superpositionsof 0 and 1, logical operations take place coherently, and dissipation is required only for error correction. Operated with frequent error correction, such a system functions as a parallel digital computer. Operated in a quantum-mechanically coherent manner, such a device functions as a generalpurpose quantum-mechanical micromanipulator, capable of both creating any desired quantum state of the array and transforming that state in any desired way.
Ion beam surface modification of aluminum

Abstract Ion implantation, ion beam mixing and ion beam assisted deposition (of coatings) are three techniques which have been used to improve the pitting resistance of aluminum. Research involving the use of each of these three techniques is discussed in this paper.
Pressure mapping as a complement in clinical sitting analysis in children during activity

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether pressure mapping can be used as a complement in sitting analysis. The purpose was also to study test–retest reliability and to obtain reference values in healthy children. The children performed a structured activity sitting on the pressure mat. The variables studied in children 4–15 years of age were the mean pressure distribution of one half of the body in relation to the whole sitting surface and the transfer of the centre of pressure (COP) in target reaching in relation to the calculated mean COP when sitting still. The standard deviation for the mean COP was calculated and test–retest for reliability was performed. The results showed significant differences between the youngest children and children 8–15 years of age concerning the transfer of COP sideways and in standard deviation of mean COP sideways. The results for weight distribution, COP transfer sideways and deviation from mean COP sideways were repeatable and consistent with studies of post...
Teaching students with ASD: Does teacher enthusiasm make a difference?

There is a general belief that students perform better in an environment in which teachers exude enthusiasm. In elementary, secondary, and college settings, the display of teacher enthusiasm is associated with positive attitudes toward teachers, recall of information, and improved classroom behavior. Although the assumption that students perform better when teachers are enthusiastic is frequently extended to individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there is currently no published research on the topic. Research on social avoidance suggests that individuals with ASD may have no reaction or even respond negatively to teacher enthusiasm and thus perform better in conditions of low teacher attention. The current study was conducted to examine the effects of teacher enthusiasm on task performance for 12 students diagnosed with ASD. For each participant, performance on a matching task was measured during a high attention condition and during a low attention condition. Inspection of performance data indicated that out of 12 participants, only one demonstrated better performance under high teacher attention and one demonstrated better performance under low teacher attention. Interestingly, when experimenters who served as teachers in the study were asked to judge student performance, they stated that all students performed better with high teacher attention. Based on the findings of the current study, educators and parents of children with ASD are cautioned against attributing differences or changes in student performance to type and intensity of social attention provided during task instruction in the absence of conducting a functional analysis. Implications from the current study serve as a reminder to avoid oversimplifying the complex learning challenges of children with autism and reiterate the importance of obtaining continuous objective performance data. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fluctuating Asymmetry, Sexual Selection, and Survivorship in Male Dark-Winged Damselflies

We examined fluctuating asymmetry and morphology as they relate to reproductive success, territoriality, and relative survivorship in the dark-winged damselfly Calopteryx maculata. Fluctuating asymmetry was not correlated with any aspect of morphology in males, but it did predict mating status in males. Mating males showed significantly lower levels of forewing asymmetry than did non-mating males holding adjacent territories. While fluctuating asymmetry did not relate to survivorship or resource holding ability, body size did. Larger males were able to hold territories longer and lived longer than smaller individuals. We suggest that size is of greater importance in this species with regards to fitness and that fluctuating asymmetry may play a minor role by impacting short-term mating success.
Thyroglossal cysts in children

Of 69 cases of midline cervical swelling in children, the correct diagnosis was made in only 38 (55 per cent). Fifty cases of thyroglossal cyst or abscess were treated and 38 per cent suffered recurrence. Apart from failures in diagnosis, the main reasons for preventable recurrence were delay in surgery, failure to resect part of the body of the hyoid bone and a tendency to excise that portion of the duct above the level of the hyoid with insufficient surrounding muscle. In cases without florid abscess formation, the aim should be to perform a radical operation as soon as possible, then cure can be guaranteed at the first operation. Recurrence may occur many years after an apparent cure. Cysts in the submental region are not often recognized as being of thyroglossal duct origin.
Current-controlled, abyssal microtopography and sedimentation in Mozambique Basin, southwest Indian Ocean

Abstract The Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW) activity and the variations in the abundance and grain size of the terrigenous sediments, derived from Africa and Madagascar land masses, are reflected in different types of microtopography in the Mozambique Basin. In southerly areas, where the sediment supply is much less, the bottom-current activity has resulted in the presence of manganese nodules, a thin veneer of sediments, and the absence of sediment waves. Farther north, along the marginal areas of the basin where the fine-grained sediments from the Africa—Madagascar source have been supplied in abundance, wavy bedforms have been generated by AABW. Wavy bedforms do not exist even in the northerly areas if coarse-grained, turbidite sediments are present on the sea floor. The continuation of acoustic reflectors from the zone of turbidites in the central areas of the basin into the zone of sediment waves along the margins, and the lithology and structures in sediment cores from these zones suggest that the turbidity-current-fed, fine-grained sediments were deposited as wavy bedforms by AABW flow. Thus, sediment waves formed readily during Pleistocene times. The enrichment of quartz and displaced Antarctic diatoms, and the relatively low kaolinite/chlorite ratios in the sediments, the north-pointing current lineations on the sea floor, the lack of any perceptible sedimentary fill in the troughs of waves, and the dense nepheloid layer in the westerly areas of the Mozambique Basin, attest to the current-controlled sedimentation and generation of wavy bedforms during Holocene time also. The formation of sediment waves in the Mozambique Basin can be modeled after a fluvial antidune mechanism. This model envisages that internal waves, focussed on a benthic boundary layer cap, have been locked in phase with sediment waves in the presence of an 8–10 cm/sec current in the Mozambique Basin. A density contrast of 2·10 −6 g/cm 3 appears to exist at the tops of benthic boundary layers in the Mozambique Basin and is quite sufficient for supporting the internal waves. The densiometric Froude number calculated for a 60–280 m thick boundary layer in the basin is close to unity or greater, and is compatible with the antidune model.
Chicks use changes in luminance and chromatic contrast as indicators of the sign of defocus

As the eye changes focus, the resulting changes in cone contrast are associated with changes in color and luminance. Color fluctuations should simulate the eye being hyperopic and make the eye grow in the myopic direction, while luminance fluctuations should simulate myopia and make the eye grow in the hyperopic direction. Chicks without lenses were exposed daily (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) for three days on two consecutive weeks to 2 Hz sinusoidally modulated illumination (mean illuminance of 680 lux) to one of the following: in-phase modulated luminance flicker (LUM), counterphase-modulated red/green (R/G Color) or blue/yellow flicker (B/Y Color), combined color and luminance flicker (Color + LUM), reduced amplitude luminance flicker (Low LUM), or no flicker. After the three-day exposure to flicker, chicks were kept in a brooder under normal diurnal lighting for four days. Changes in the ocular components were measured with ultrasound and with a Hartinger Coincidence Refractometer (aus Jena, Jena, East Germany. After the first three-day exposure, luminance flicker produced more hyperopic refractions (LUM: 2.27 D) than did color flicker (R/G Color: 0.09 D; B/Y Color: -0.25 D). Changes in refraction were mainly due to changes in eye length, with color flicker producing much greater changes in eye length than luminance flicker (R/G Color: 102 μm; B/Y Color: 98 μm; LUM: 66 μm). Our results support the hypothesis that the eye can differentiate between hyperopic and myopic defocus on the basis of the effects of change in luminance or color contrast.
PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE (PC) SECRETION BY CULTURED FETAL RAT TYPE II PNEUMOCYTES

Purinooeptor and B-adrenergio agonists have been shown to stimulate PC secretion by adult rat type II cells. We have studied the influence of these agents on secretion by fetal type II cells. The cells were isolated by explant culture, cell dissociation, differential adhesion, type II cell aggregation, and monolayer culture. To study secretion the cells were incubated with [3H]-choline for 20h, followed by 90 minutes of exposure to varying concentrations of ATP or terbutaline. Purity of type II cell cultures ranged from 85 to 90%. Post culture viability was 97.3±0.2%. LDH release averaged 1.5%; no difference was observed between control and treated cultures. Baseline secretion of PC from the fetal cells was 0.63±0.11%. We observed dose dependent enhancement of secretion by both ATP and terbutaline. Maximal stimulation by ATP occurred at 10−4 M. At this dose secretion was 1.24±0.28% (97% increase). Maximal stimulation by terbutaline was observed at 10−5 M (75% increase). These data differ from those in adult rat type II cells in which baseline PC secretion ranged from 1% to 3%. ATP and terbutaline produced greater stimulation in adult cells (approximately 400% and 100% respectively) than in fetal cells. We conclude that fetal type II cells secrete PC. Baseline and stimulated secretion is lower in these cells than in adult cells. This suggests that although fetal and adult cells are morphologically similar, they are functionally different. (Supported by HD 07091, HL 19752, HL 31175.)
Systemic administration of CNI-1493, a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitor, blocks intrathecal human immunodeficiency virus-1 gp120-induced enhanced pain states in rats

Abstract Intrathecal administration of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 envelope glycoprotein, gp120, activates astrocytes and microglia to release products that induce thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Both pain states are disrupted by intrathecal CNI-1493, a p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase inhibitor. Whether CNI-1493, or any other p38 MAP kinase inhibitor, can cross the blood-brain barrier to affect spinal cord function is unknown. Given that several such drugs are in clinical trials, it is of interest to determine whether they may be potentially useful in treating centrally mediated pain. The aim of the present studies was to determine whether systemic CNI-1493 could block intrathecal gp120-induced thermal hyperalgesia and/or mechanical allodynia. Because p38 MAP kinase inhibition would be expected to prevent proinflammatory cytokine release and/or signal transduction, we sought to determine from the same animals the likely mechanism by which CNI-1493 blocks gp120-induced pain states. These studies show that systemic CNI-1493 blocks intrathecal gp120-induced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Because CNI-1493 did not block proinflammatory cytokine release, this may suggest disruption at the level of signal transduction. These studies provide the first evidence that systemic p38 MAP kinase inhibitors can prevent centrally mediated exaggerated pain states. Thus, CNI-1493 may provide a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of pain. © 2001 by the American Pain Society
Predator-mediated coexistence: an equilibrium interpretation

Abstract I have constructed a spatially distributed analytical model of predators, superior prey competitors, and inferior prey competitors, based on the limiting deterministic version of a simulation model by Caswell (1978). Persistence regions for the three populations are mapped in parameter space. Conceptually shrinking the system from infinite size (i.e. infinitely many spatial “cells”) to some finite size introduces demographic stochasticity, increasing the chance of extinction of one or more populations within a given time interval. But some of the finite (stochastic) system's behavior, such as any tendency to damp perturbations, can be related to the behavior of the deterministic system at the same location in parameter space.
Cost-effectiveness in the contemporary management of critical limb ischemia with tissue loss

Background The care of patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) and tissue loss is notoriously challenging and expensive. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of various management strategies to identify those that would optimize value to patients. Methods A probabilistic Markov model was used to create a detailed simulation of patient-oriented outcomes, including clinical events, wound healing, functional outcomes, and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) after various management strategies in a CLI patient cohort during a 10-year period. Direct and indirect cost estimates for these strategies were obtained using transition cost-accounting methodology. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs), in 2009 U.S. dollars per QALYs, were calculated compared with the most conservative management strategy of local wound care with amputation as needed. Results With an ICER of $47,735/QALY, an initial surgical bypass with subsequent endovascular revision(s) as needed was the most cost-effective alternative to local wound care alone. Endovascular-first management strategies achieved comparable clinical outcomes but at higher cost (ICERs ≥$101,702/QALY); however, endovascular management did become cost-effective when the initial foot wound closure rate was >37% or when procedural costs were decreased by >42%. Primary amputation was dominated (less effectiveness and more costly than wound care alone). Conclusions Contemporary clinical effectiveness and cost estimates show an initial surgical bypass is the most cost-effective alternative to local wound care alone for CLI with tissue loss and can be supported even in a cost-averse health care environment.
Studies in Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells: Migration and Participation in Repair of Cranial Injury after Systemic Injection

Background Adipose-derived stromal cells are a multipotent cell type with the ability to undergo osteogenic differentiation. The authors sought to examine whether systemically administered adipose-derived stromal cells would migrate to and heal surgically created defects of the mouse cranial skeleton. Methods Mouse adipose-derived stromal cells were harvested from luciferase-positive transgenic mice; human adipose-derived stromal cells were harvested from human lipoaspirate and labeled with luciferase and green fluorescent protein. A 4-mm calvarial defect (critical sized) was made in the mouse parietal bone; skin incisions alone were used as a control (n = 5 per group). Adipose-derived stromal cells were injected intravenously (200,000 cells per animal) and compared with saline injection only. Methods of analyses included micro-computed tomographic scanning, in vivo imaging system detection of luciferase activity, and standard histology. Results Migration of adipose-derived stromal cells to calvarial defect sites was confirmed by accumulation of luciferase activity and green fluorescent protein stain as early as 4 days and persisting up to 4 weeks. Little activity was observed among control groups. Intravenous administration of either mouse or human adipose-derived stromal cells resulted in histologic evidence of bone formation within the defect site, in comparison with an absence of bone among control defects. By micro-computed tomographic analysis, human but not mouse adipose-derived stromal cells stimulated significant osseous healing. Conclusions Intravenously administered adipose-derived stromal cells migrate to sites of calvarial injury. Thereafter, intravenous human adipose-derived stromal cells contribute to bony calvarial repair. Intravenous administration of adipose-derived stromal cells may be an effective delivery method for future efforts in skeletal regeneration.
Aging and sex-related changes in the biomechanical properties of the rabbit medial collateral ligament

The effects of aging and sex on the tensile properties of the rabbit medial collateral ligament (MCL) were examined. The femur-MCL-tibia complex (FMTC) of male and female rabbits, of representative ages before and after epiphyseal closure up to the onset of senescence (i.e., 3.5, 6, 12 and 36 months of age) were examined. A group of 48-month-old female rabbits was also tested. The specimens were tensile tested to failure in order to obtain both the load-elongation curve of the FMTC (structural properties) and the stress-strain curve of the MCL substance (mechanical properties). Significant increases in the linear stiffness, ultimate load and energy absorbed at failure of the FMTC were noted in both the males and females during skeletal maturation, but the FMTCs of the older rabbits began to show a slight decrease in these properties. The ultimate load of the FMTC for the male rabbits reached its plateau at approximately 6 months of age, while that of the females did not plateau until 12 months of age. The modes of failure correlated well with closure of the epiphyses in both sexes, i.e., tibial avulsion failure for the skeletally immature groups and mid-substance for the skeletally mature groups. The modulus of the MCL substance increased during maturation for both sexes until 12 months, and then gradually declined until 48 months. The tensile strength remained relatively constant after 12 months of age but was slightly reduced at 48 months for the females. Thus, the rate of skeletal maturation contributed in part to the differences in the tensile properties of both the male and female rabbits.
Nonprofit organizations' use of the internet: A content analysis of communication trends on the internet sites of the philanthropy 400

To evaluate the current status of communication and fundraising strategies on the Internet, a stratified random sample of the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s Philanthropy 400 was content-analyzed in mid-January 2005. Web sites were coded on variables identified in practitioner and scholarly literature on issues of accountability, fundraising practices, and interactive communication strategies. Chi-square analysis found that the top nonprofit organizations included copies of their annual reports, organizational goals, and mission statements, while second-tier organizations were more likely to use a sales approach by using e-commerce technology and terminology to process online donations.
Trends in Service Employment in Pacific Northwest Counties: 1974–1986

The Pacific Northwest has grown more rapidly than the U.S. in recent years, led by the expansion of services employment. However, there have been striking differences in the rates of growth of individual counties in the Northwest. These variations in growth rates are shown to be associated with the type of industrial structure found in groups of counties. Their growth is also shown to be related, in part, to changes in the economic base of individual counties, with services contributing a greater share to county exports in 1986 than in 1974.