cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resistivity-velocity transforms revisited

Velocity and density measured in a well are crucial for synthetic seismic generation which is, in turn, a key to interpreting real seismic amplitude in terms of lithology, porosity, and fluid. Because velocity and density curves are sometimes of poor quality, or simply absent in older wells, it is important to be able to reconstruct these curves from reliable measurements, such as resistivity and gamma-ray (GR). A recent example of this approach is by Xu et al. (2003) where mechanical compaction curves and velocity-porosity relations are used to reconstruct a full suite of the needed log data. The earliest attempt to reconstruct a sonic curve from resistivity is by Faust (1953), where both the velocity and resistivity are empirically related to depth and lithology. From these two relations an equation follows that links the sonic velocity to the depth and formation factor, where the formation factor is defined, as usual, as the ratio of the resistivity of water-saturated rock to the resistivity of water. ...
Abstract A91: Healthcare reform: Closing the health disparities gap. Where does patient navigation belong?

Background: Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death in the US among men. Although overall incidence and mortality has decreased over time, disparities still exist among racial/ethnic groups. Strategies to reduce disparities in cancer detection, treatment, and outcomes among racial/ethnic minorities and low-income patients have been gathering momentum with the introduction of patient navigation (PN) initiatives. The current advancement of medical knowledge and technology spurs a widening gap in healthcare delivery for racial/ethnical minorities and medically underserved populations for certain emerging state-of-the-art treatments. The controversy around the effectiveness of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal exam (DRE) as screening tools was cited as a possible reason for this information void, but research suggests that African American males rely on their physicians to recommend all needed tests/screenings. The study examined the current and potential roles of PN in the improvement of prostate cancer screenings among disadvantaged populations. Methods: A Longitudinal study design was conducted on males over 35 years of age to examine the role of patient navigation on equity of access to prostate cancer screening among disadvantaged populations since 2008 (n=1602). Patient's demographics, geographical location, PSA scores, and DRE scores, and the array of event types in which community engagement occurred were collected. Data were analyzed using comparison analyses. Results: Patient navigation allowed for greater utilization of health services among populations of rural origins (Urban: n=747; Rural: n=833). Mean PSA scores were within normal range, although mean PSA scores for non-whites residing in rural areas (1.45ng/mL) was slightly higher than non-whites in urban areas of the state (1.36ng/mL; p=0.03). The mean age was 54 years (Urban: 51 years; Rural: 56 years; p=0.001). Conclusions: Equity of access to cancer screenings among disadvantaged populations may be achieved with the utilization of patient navigation programs. Access to the health care system is a strong barrier which fosters disparities among disadvantaged populations. PN allows rural disadvantaged populations entry into the health care system at earlier stages, considering PSA as a proxy for disease. Health care reform lays the foundation for preventative programs such as patient navigation. Citation Format: Michael A. Preston, Katherine Glover-Collins, Dale Gray, Sharla Smith, Ronda Henry-Tillman. Healthcare reform: Closing the health disparities gap. Where does patient navigation belong? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A91.
Complex Formation between Azotobacter vinelandiiFerredoxin I and Its Physiological Electron Donor NADPH-Ferredoxin Reductase

In Azotobacter vinelandii, deletion of the fdxA gene, which encodes ferredoxin I (FdI), leads to activation of the expression of the fpr gene, which encodes NADPH-ferredoxin reductase (FPR). In order to investigate the relationship of these two proteins further, the interactions of the two purified proteins have been examined. AvFdI forms a specific 1:1 cross-linked complex with AvFPR through ionic interactions formed between the Lys residues of FPR and Asp/Glu residues of FdI. The Lys in FPR has been identified as Lys258, a residue that forms a salt bridge with one of the phosphate oxygens of FAD in the absence of FdI. UV-Vis and circular dichroism data show that on binding FdI, the spectrum of the FPR flavin is hyperchromatic and red-shifted, confirming the interaction region close to the FAD. Cytochrome c reductase assays and electron paramagnetic resonance data show that electron transfer between the two proteins is pH-dependent and that the [3Fe-4S]+ cluster of FdI is specifically reduced by NADPH via FPR, suggesting that the [3Fe-4S] cluster is near FAD in the complex. To further investigate the FPR:FdI interaction, the electrostatic potentials for each protein were calculated. Strongly negative regions around the [3Fe-4S] cluster of FdI are electrostatically complementary with a strongly positive region overlaying the FAD of FPR, centered on Lys258. These proposed interactions of FdI with FPR are consistent with cross-linking, peptide mapping, spectroscopic, and electron transfer data and strongly support the suggestion that the two proteins are physiological redox partners.
On stochastic optimal control

It is shown that, for a class of stochastic systems, i.e., those in which the cost increases as the distance between the stochastic and the deterministic controls increases, the optimal stochastic control is the conditional expectation of the deterministic control, given the measurement history.
Do Well-Capitalized Banks Take More Risk? Evidence from the Korean Banking System

The relationship between banks' capitalizations and risk-taking behaviors has been one of the central issues in the banking literature because of its implications on regulatory policies. Despite the fact that a considerable amount of studies have been conducted concerning the issue, neither empirical nor theoretical studies reach a consensus. The aim of this paper is to provide an empirical study on this issue on the basis of new hypotheses and methodologies not utilized in previous studies. We build a testing model that incorporates the different incentives of the three entities that affect the risk determination of a bank; namely regulatory agencies, shareholders, and management. The test results using data from the Korean banking system show apparent differences in risk-capitalization relationships across banks differentiated by the level of capitalization, and across publicly and non-publicly-traded banks. These results provide clear evidence that the risk-capitalization relationships are, indeed, sensitive to the relative forces of the three sources of influence in determining asset risk.
Influence of interferon γ on B cell replication

Semisolid agar culture techniques, recombinant murine gamma interferon, (Mu IFN gamma) and monoclonal anti-Mu IFN gamma antibodies were used to evaluate the role of interferon in mitogen-dependent B cell proliferation. Subtle, but significant, effects of interferon addition were noted when unseparated spleen cells were cultured. Depending on culture conditions, the cloning efficiency of the B cells was slightly increased by optimal concentrations of interferon. When the spleen cells were cultured over unstimulated peritoneal macrophages separated by an agar spacer, and especially when no other potentiators were added to the cultures, substantial enhancement of B cell proliferation routinely resulted. The mechanism of this effect was then investigated with macrophage depleted spleen cells as well as highly enriched, positively selected, B cell suspensions. Results of these experiments indicated that B cell replication can be modulated by direct interaction with interferon and again, the conditions of culture determined the magnitude and direction of the effect. Addition of anti-interferon antibodies, indomethacin, or interleukin 1 (IL-1) to the cultures did not influence the cloning efficiency of normal splenic B cells. Therefore, we found no evidence that endogenously produced interferon, prostaglandins, and IL-1 influence B cell colony formation. Since interferon stimulated macrophages dramatically improved B cell proliferation without direct cell contact, some other monokine may be involved. Therefore, gamma interferon can participate in humoral immune responses by influencing the expansion of activated B cells directly as well as indirectly via stimulation of macrophages.
The role of calcium in the mitotic stimulation of rat thymocytes by detergents, agmatine and poly-L-lysine.

Abstract Low concentrations of the detergents cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, dodecyl sodium sulphate, and Triton X-100 stimulate mitotic activity in rat thymocyte populations maintained in vitro. These compounds have no mitotic effect on cells maintained in calcium-free medium. The maximum mitotic activity in the presence of a detergent such as dodecyl sodium sulphate occurs when the CaCl2 concentration is 0.04 mM while the same activity in detergent-free medium occurs only when the CaCl2 concentration is 2.5 mM. Similarly, the organic cations agmatine and poly- l -lysine also stimulated mitosis in calcium-containing medium, but not in calcium-free medium. It is concluded that all these compounds stimulate mitosis only indirectly by sensitising the mitotically competent segment of a thymocyte population to the action of calcium.
Effect of heat processing of dried egg white on in vitro iron bioavailability.

Egg white (EW) was desugared, adjusted to either pH 7 or pH 9, and freeze-dried. Portions were held at 25°, 50°, 60°, 70° or 80°C for 1 wk. In vitro iron bioavailability (IVIB) was estimated by the method of Kane and Miller (1984) and no differences in IVIB were observed due to EW pH. IVIB of EW held at 50°, 60°, or 70°C was not different (P>0.05) than that of EW held at 25°C [9.87% dialyzable iron (DI)]; only the 80°C treatment led to IVIB lower (6.76% DI, P<0.05) than the 25°C control. Differential scanning calorimetry and nondissociating electrophoresis showed that native protein structure, including that of the iron-binding protein ovotransferrin, was maintained after the 70°C treatment but not after the 80°C treatment.
g-modes in zero-temperature neutron stars

Dans une etoile isentropique, consideree comme fluide parfait, les inhomogeneites chimiques perturbent certains modes g au-dela de la frequence zero. On etudie ce phenomene pour le cas idealise d'une temperature zero, d'un fluide parfait, pour des etoiles a neutrons
USE OF INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES TO ENHANCE THE HYDRAULIC DISINFECTION EFFICIENCY OF DRINKING WATER CONTACT TANKS

The focus of this study was to understand the complex nature of flow dynamics within water disinfection contact tanks and to use this understanding in the development of beneficial tank modifications. Methods involved in this process included the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and physical conservative tracer studies. Attempted tank alterations included the installation of baffles, inlet modification, and the use of industrial packing material. Tested modifications aimed at altering existing velocity fields in order to increase the hydraulic disinfection efficiency of a given system. Hydraulic efficiency was measured through the use of residence time distribution (RTD) curves and the well-known baffling factor (BF). The principle system that was investigated was a 1500 gallon rectangular concrete tank. A total of 37 baffling scenarios were tested using CFD. After several CFD models were experimentally validated, random packing material was placed within the tank at areas of high velocity and flow separation. Results suggest that the innovative use of industrial packing material and other modifications can significantly increase the hydraulic efficiency of small scale systems and that CFD can be used as a guide in this endeavor.
Expression of cytokine receptors and markers of differentiation in human papillomavirus-infected cervical tissues.

Abstract Human papillomavirus infection of the uterine cervix is associated with a spectrum of benign, premalignant, and malignant epithelial lesions, a process that appears to require the coordinated effects of secondary cellular and environmental events. We have used flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of the cellular markers for proliferation (interleukin-1, epidermal growth factor receptor, and transferrin receptor) and the markers of cellular differentiation (filaggrin and low-molecular-weight cytokeratin) in normal and human papillomavirus-infected human cervical tissues representing the natural range of human papillomavirus-induced disease. The results were correlated with the histologic grade of disease, human papillomavirus type, cellular deoxyribonucleic acid content, and cell cycle status. Interleukin-1 and transferrin receptor were slightly increased in high-grade dysplasias and in squamous cell carcinomas. Filaggrin expression was found to be inversely related and cytokeratin and epidermal growth factor receptor expression directly related to the degree of neoplasia. These findings indicate that cytokeratin and epidermal growth factor receptor are useful markers of cell proliferation in human papillomavirus-infected tissues and that their expression may directly increase as a result of infection.
761-2 Prognostic Value of Creatinine Kinase Elevation Following Elective Coronary Artery Interventions

Long term prognosis was evaluated in 250 consecutive pts (age 62 ± 12 years, 70% male) who developed creatinine kinase (CK) elevation following elective coronary artery interventions (balloon PTCA, directional coronary atherectomy, TEC atherectomy, and excimer laser). CK levels were obtained in all pts every 6 hours for at least 24 hours after PTCA. Median follow up was 2.5 yrs. (0.8, 43) and was obtained in 211 (85%) pts. Results Cardiac death occurred in 26/211 (12%) pts at 1.2 ± 1.3 years after intervention (range 0.0–4.0 years). Univariate predictors of cardiac death include peak total CK (p l 0.0008), age (p l 0.01), prior coronary artery bypass surgery (p l 0.04), and Q wave myocardial infarction after PTCA (p l 0.04). There were no differences in cardiac death rates between devices. Multivariate predictors of cardiac death were peak total CK (p l 0.0004) and age (p l 0.01). Actuarial survival was related to the degree of CK elevation as shown below: Download : Download high-res image (85KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions CK elevation following elective PTCA is associated with an increased risk of cardiac death at long term follow up. The degree of CK elevation and age are independent predictors of late cardiac death.
Direct Observation of Aminoglycoside−RNA Interactions by Surface Plasmon Resonance

The specificity of neomycin B and related aminoglycoside antibiotics in their interaction with the Rev responsive element (RRE) of HIV-1 mRNA has been studied by directly observing the aminoglycoside-RNA complexes using surface plasmon resonance. Several different RNA sequences, each with a biotin tag, have been prepared using T7 RNA polymerase-catalyzed transcription of synthetic DNA templates and have been immobilized on a streptavidin-coated surface for the binding study. The results indicate that neomycin B is not specific for the G-rich bubble region in RRE. Rather, it appears to interact with three different sites, each with a submicromolar dissociation constant, within the 67-nucleotide domain II of RRE. Further analysis of neomycin B binding with three short synthetic RNA hairpins showed binding with submicromolar affinity and 1:1 stoichiometry in each case. This suggests that neomycin B may generally bind with this affinity to regular A-form RNA or hairpin loops. The approach described here is generally useful for understanding the fundamental interactions involved in the specific recognition of nucleic acids by small molecules which is the basis of rational drug design.
Taxol Sensitizes Human Ovarian Cancer Cells to Radiation

Abstract Taxol is an exciting antineoplastic agent with a novel mechanism of action. This study was designed to explore the potential use of taxol as a radiation sensitizer. Three human ovarian cancer cell lines were used: BG-1, SKOV-3, and OVCAR-3. These cell lines were treated in the proliferative and confluent state with taxol doses of 0.0001X, 0.0005X, 0.001X, 0.005X, and 0.01X peak plasma concentration of taxol for 90 min and then irradiated either 24 or 48 hr later. Doses of cobalt were 0, 2, 5, 8, and 10 Gy. ATP bioluminescence assays were performed on Day 7 after irradiation. Survival data was fit to the linear-quadratic model and mean inactivation dose D was calculated. Data analysis with t test and analysis of variance was performed. Taxol was found to have a significant radiosensitizing effect on all cell lines. Proliferating cells were more sensitive to taxol, radiation, and the combination than confluent cells. Treatment of proliferating cells with taxol 48 hr prior to irradiation had a greater radiosensitizing effect than treatment 24 hr prior to irradiation. In summary, taxol is a potent radiosensitizer in ovarian cancer cell lines and should be considered for further study.
Conversion of acetohydroxamate and hydroxylamine to nitrite by intestinal microorganisms

We have investigated the ability of intestinal microorganisms from the rat, guinea pig and man to carry out heterotrophic nitrification. We have shown that some intestinal isolates can oxidize acetohydroxamate and hydroxylamine to nitrite. Moreover, one of the isolates, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, exhibited the greatest nitrifying activity reported in the literature.
Acute intravenous beta blockade as an adjunct to thrombolytic therapy

The Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction Trial (TIMI) IIB was a study of adjuncts to thrombolytic therapy. During the trial, 1390 patients without contraindication to beta blockade were treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and heparin within 4 h of the onset of myocardial infarction and then were randomly assigned to metoprolol (15 mg intravenously over 6 min, followed by two 50 mg oral doses on hospital Day 1 and 100 mg b.i.d. thereafter) or matching placebo. In patients assigned to placebo, oral metoprolol therapy was initiated on hospital Day 6. Although the intravenous/oral metoprolol regimen did not reduce overall mortality, there were significant reductions in recurrent ischemia (15.4 vs. 21.2%, p=0.005) and recurrent nonfatal infarction (2.3 vs. 4.5%, p=0.02). In 631 patients treated with 100 mg of tPA and metoprolol, there were no intracranial hemorrhages, but 3 of the 617 patients treated with 100 mg of tPA and placebo had an intracranial hemorrhage (p=0.08).
HIDA scan ejection fraction does not predict sphincter of Oddi hypertension or clinical outcome in patients with suspected chronic acalculous cholecystitis.

Hepatobiliary iminodiacetic scan with ejection fraction (HIDA EF) is used to evaluate chronic acalculous cholecystitis (CAC). A presumed etiology of CAC is sphincter of Oddi hypertension (SOH). In this study, we evaluated the value of HIDA EF to predict patient response to laparoscopic cholecystectomy and to identify SOH. A prospective study of 93 patients with biliary pain but without gallstones (CAC) who underwent preoperative HIDA EF was conducted. At laparoscopic cholecystectomy, transcystic antegrade biliary manometry was performed to determine the SO pressure. Patients were evaluated postoperatively for response to cholecystectomy. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated. The outcomes were compared with the clinical impression. Of the 93 patients with both HIDA EF and SOP measurements, 50 had abnormal EF (<35%); of these, 29 had SOH (SO pressure ≥40 mmHg). Of the 43 patients with normal HIDA EF, 30 had SOH. The sensitivity was 49%, specificity 38%, PPV 58%, and NPV 30%. Eighty-six of the 93 patients returned for follow-up evaluation. Follow-up ranged from 0 to 99 months, with a mean of 26.4 months. Overall, 73 patients (85%) improved. Of the 46 with abnormal HIDA EF, 42 (91%) improved. Of the 40 patients with normal HIDA EF, 31 (77.5%) improved. The sensitivity was 57.7%, specificity 69.2%, PPV 91.3%, and NPV 22.5%. Although the PPV of abnormal HIDA EF is high, it is not much better than the clinical impression. The sensitivity and specificity are marginal. The NPV is poor. Based on the review of these 93 patients, HIDA EF is not reliable for identifying CAC. We recommend that patients with normal HIDA EF have additional testing or consultation before ruling out CAC. HIDA EF does not predict SOH.
Resected pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma: clinicopathologic review and evaluation of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation in 38 patients

Pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma is a rare morphological variant of pancreatic adenocarcinoma with an especially poor prognosis. The purpose of this study is to identify clinicopathologic features associated with prognosis, assess whether the percentage of squamous differentiation in pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma is associated with an inferior prognosis, and examine the impact of adjuvant chemoradiation therapy on overall survival. Forty-five (1.2%) of 3651 patients who underwent pancreatic resection at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, between 1986 and 2007 were identified with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas with any squamous differentiation. All pathologic specimens were re-reviewed. Statistical analyses were performed on the 38 patients amenable to adjuvant chemoradiation therapy for whom clinical outcome data could be obtained. Median age was 68 years (61% male). Sixty-one percent underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. Median tumor size was 5.0 cm. Seventy-six percent of carcinomas were node positive, 37% were margin-positive resections, and 68% had 30% or more squamous differentiation. Median overall survival of the pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma cohort was 10.9 months (range, 2.1-140.6 months; 95% confidence interval, 8.2-12.5 months). Adjuvant chemoradiation therapy was associated with superior overall survival in patients with pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma (P = .005). Adjuvant chemoradiation therapy was associated with improved survival in patients with tumors 3 cm or larger and vascular or perineural invasion (P = .02, .03, .02, respectively). The proportion of squamous differentiation was not associated with median overall survival (<30% versus ≥30%, P = .82). Survival after pancreatic resection of pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma is poor. Treatment with adjuvant chemoradiation therapy is associated with improved survival. The proportion of squamous differentiation in resected pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma specimens does not appear to impact overall survival.
Effect of time of onset of rapid cooling on bovine milk fat hydrolysis.

Abstract Milk samples (n = 1818), collected from 261 cows, were used to evaluate effect of time of onset of rapid cooling on milk fat hydrolysis. Aliquots, either cooled immediately or after 1 h at ambient temperarure, were analyzed for FFA content after storage at 4°C for 48 h. Acid degree values for immediately cooled aliquots were higher than delayed cooled aliquots following adjustment for days in milk, days pregnant, milk yield, and SCC (.76 vs. .71). Correlation of .89 existed between aliquots; however, within a sample, aliquot response on cooling was variable in direction and magnitude. Immediate cooling enhanced lipolysis associated with increased days pregnant, decreased milk yield, and increased SCC. Consequently, effect of immediate cooling on milk fat hydrolysis was greater in milk collected from late lactation cows.
Generative learning structures and processes for generalized connectionist networks

Abstract Massively parallel networks of relatively simple computing elements offer an attractive and versatile framework for exploring a variety of learning structures and processes for intelligent systems. This paper briefly summarizes some popular learning structures and processes used in such networks. It outlines a range of potentially more powerful alternatives for pattern-directed inductive learning in such systems. It motivates and develops a class of new learning algorithms for massively parallel networks of simple computing elements. We call this class of learning processes generative for they offer a set of mechanisms for constructive and adaptive determination of the network architecture—the number of processing elements and the connectivity among them—as a function of experience. Generative learning algorithms attempt to overcome some of the limitations of some approaches to learning in networks that rely on modification of weights on the links within an otherwise fixed network topology, for example, rather slow learning and the need for an a priori choice of network architecture. Several alternative designs as well as a range of control structures and processes that can be used to regulate the form and content of internal representations learned by such networks are examined. Empirical results from the study of some generative learning algorithms are briefly summarized, and several extensions and refinements of such algorithms and directions for future research are outlined.
LOW THRUST POWER-LIMITED TRANSFER FOR A POLE SQUATTER

The problem of minimum fuel transfer in a central gravity field for power-limited low thrust propulsion has been studied by several investigators. Orbital averaging was used by Edelbaum in the co-axial and co-planar cases, and by Marec and Vinh for the general transfer between elliptical orbits. The co-latus rectum transfer, which has a complete analytical solution, can be applied to the Pole Squatter. Typical results for the evolution of the orbit parameters and the variation of the thrust acceleration along the orbit are shown.
Public real data repositories and measurement tools

Real network data is valuable and scarce. The efforts below are trying to do something for this. We provide a list of available tools and data for measurements in both wireless and wireline networks. To avoid lawsuits, we pledge ignorance: the sites are listed as is with no implicit guarantees of content. We just browsed through them briefly. For convenience, we created UCRchive, an electronic and extended version of the resources that are presented below. The original descriptions of the available resources was too large to include here. Site: http://networks.cs.ucr.edu/ucrchive/+ measurement.htm
Fluorous Synthesis of Hydantoin-, Piperazinedione-, and Benzodiazepinedione-Fused Tricyclic and Tetracyclic Ring Systems

Fluorous proline derivatives generated from one-pot, three-component [3+2] cycloaddition of azomethine ylides are employed for different post-condensation reactions to form hydantoin-, piperazinedione-, and benzodiazepinedione-fused tricyclic and tetracyclic ring systems. The high synthetic efficiency is achieved by conducting fast microwave reactions and easy fluorous-solid phase extractions for reaction mixture purifications. Methods developed for these novel drug-like heterocyclic compounds can be applied to diversity-oriented library synthesis.
Lungs from donation after cardiac death for transplantation

We read with interest the publication by Zych et al .[ 1] regarding lung transplantation from donation after cardiac death (DCD) donors. Concern that DCD lungs might be inferior to lungs from brain-dead donors appears to be significant barriers to widespread adoption. Our prior studies [2, 3], which also represent that a large portion of the national DCD lung transplantation experience, have been very favourable, and we advocate its utilization as a means of overcoming the donor shortage. We have approached selection, procurement and implantation of DCD organs in a fashion analogous to that for brain-dead donors with essentially no modification of our standardized protocols. There have been concerns about the timing and dosage of heparin for DCD lung harvest. Delayed heparin administration after cardiac death does not seem to affect thrombus formation in an animal model of lung procurement after cardiac death, and concerns about thrombosis appear unfounded [4]. We noted that the authors did not administer heparin prior to cardiac arrest. However, at this juncture, we routinely administer full-dose heparin prior to a withdrawal of support and hope to expand the pool to include donors in whom heparin is not permitted. We noticed that the authors had a higher primary graft dysfunction (PGD) 3 score on arrival to the intensive care unit in the DCD group, whereas in our series 91% of patients had PGD scores of 0 at T0, T24, T48 and T72 h. The survival in our series was 97% at 30 days, 91% at 1 and 2 years, respectively, and 71% at 3 and 4 years, and our growing experience suggests that recipient survival and early graft function using DCD lungs are excellent. Concerns about diminished organ quality are unwarranted, and the use of DCD lungs should be expanded. We whole-heartedly agree with the authors that DCD lungs are a valuable and excellent source of good quality organs for transplantation.
Integrating lay health care workers into the primary care team

Objective: �Todescribeacaremodelinwhichlay�"care� guides"�areintegratedintotheprimarycareteamto� helppatientswithchronicdiseaseandtheirproviders� achievecaregoals. •� Methods:��Careguidesareindividualswithoutformal� medicaltrainingwhoreceivebrieftrainingabout� chronicconditionsandbehaviorchange.� General� activitiesincludeeducatingandencouragingpatients� totakecontroloftheirillness,�supportingmedication� andtreatmentadherence,�andfacilitatingresolutionof� barrierstoqualitycare.� •� Results: �Thecareguidemodelcanimprovecarefor�
Topology aggregation for directed graphs

This paper addresses the problem of aggregating the topology of a sub-network in a compact way with minimum distortion. The problem arises from networks that have a hierarchical structure, where each sub-network must advertise the cost of routing between each pair of its border nodes. The straight-forward solution of advertising the exact cost for each pair has a quadratic cost which is not practical. We look at the realistic scenario of networks where all links are bidirectional, but their cost (or distance) in the opposite directions might differ significantly. The paper presents a solution with distortion that is bounded by the logarithm of the number of border nodes and the square-root of the asymmetry in the cost of a link. This is the first time that a theoretical bound is given to an undirected graph. We show how to apply our solution to PNNI, and suggest some other heuristics that are tested to perform better than the provenly bounded solution.
Decentralization and the Decline of the Central City: A Case Study of Demographic and Economic Change in Bridgeport, Conn.

. The fiscal crisis of particular central cities has been primarily caused by social and economic decentralization within metropolitan regions. This hypothesis is examined through a case study of the Bridgeport, Connecticut metropolitan region. Middle and upper income groups have moved from the central city of Bridgeport to its suburbs while the poor remain. Business and industry have also decentralized. These factors weaken the capacity of the central city to generate sufficient revenue from its declining share of the region's taxable resources. The central city must fund a wide range of services and faces, as all local governments do, increased costs. Because of these fundamental social and economic changes, the central city cannot meet its service commitments. Unless the existing system of public finance is altered, continued decline is inevitable.
Atmospheric concentrations of chlorinated solvents around a nuclear processing plant in colorado

Abstract Atmospheric concentrations of chlorinated solvents were determined in the vicinity of a major user of such compounds in Colorado. Samples were collected using Tenax absorbent and analysed by thermal desorption‐GC/ECD. Comparison of samples collected upwind and downwind of the plant revealed that on certain days there were significant releases of methyl chloroform and, to a lesser extent, carbon tetrachloride from the plant. There was no evidence for consistent releases of other chlorinated solvents.
Immunohistochemistry in ocular carcinomas.

Background: The distinction between ocular sebaceous carcinoma, poorly differentiated ocular squamous cell carcinoma and ocular basal cell carcinoma can be challenging. An appropriate immunohistochemical panel may help to differentiate these lesions. Methods: To determine the distribution and use of several immunostains in these specimens, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue from several of each was studied using an immunohistochemical technique. Results: Positive staining for cytokeratin (CK)7 was seen in 100% of sebaceous carcinomas, 77.8% of basal cell carcinomas and 67.7% of squamous cell carcinomas. One hundred percent of sebaceous and basal cell carcinomas were positive for cytokeratin CAM 5.2, while only 83.3% of squamous cell carcinomas were positive. Using epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), 100% of squamous cell carcinomas and 80% of sebaceous carcinomas were positive, while basal cell carcinomas were uniformly negative. One hundred percent of basal cell carcinomas and 80% of sebaceous carcinomas were positive for Ber-EP4, while all squamous cell carcinomas were negative. Finally, 77.8%, 20% and 16.7% of basal cell carcinomas, sebaceous carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas showed immunoreactivity for the androgen receptor. Conclusion: An EMA positive, Ber-EP4 positive immunophenotype supports sebaceous carcinoma, EMA positive, Ber-EP4 negative result supports squamous cell carcinoma and an EMA negative, Ber-EP4 positive result supports basal cell carcinoma.
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center

THE MASHANTUCKET PEQUOT MUSEUM AND RESEARCH CENTER. Mashantucket, Connecticut (Permanent Installation)
Layout driven logic restructuring/decomposition

The authors present techniques to integrate interconnection optimization with logic restructuring and technology decomposition phases of logic synthesis. The approach is based on a point placement of a Boolean network which is used to guide the synthesis process by providing accurate estimates on wiring area and delay. The placement solution is incrementally updated as intermediate Boolean nodes are extracted or eliminated during the decomposition or elimination procedures. Combining these techniques with layout-driven technology mapping makes it possible to produce a synthesis solution and a 'companion' placement solution for a given combinational logic circuit simultaneously. Using these techniques, circuits with smaller area and higher performance can be generated. >
Iterative restitution effects from heart rate variability

Action potential duration (APD) in the heart depends on the timing of the stimuli from SA node and the preceding diastolic interval (DI), the time it rested since the previous excitation. Such effects can be described by a random iterative map involving a heart rate dependent restitution function. In a steady state the stimuli form a stationary random process and iterative maps converge to stationary stochastic APD and DI sequences. We derive analytical expressions for major stochastic characteristics of such sequences (mean value, variance, etc). The results reveal a remarkable role of the slope of the restitution curve for the properties of the stationary output sequences. Our tentative computer simulations of the process corroborate our analytical results for relatively small heart rate variability.
Protracted elimination of cocaine metabolites in long-term, high-dose cocaine abusers

M ounting public concern about cocaine abuse has led to increased urine testing in drug treatment programs and in the workplace. Since cocaine is rapidly eliminated from plasma, urine tests for cocaine generally detect its principal metabolite, benzoylecgonine, rather than cocaine itself; cocaine is metabolized primarily to benzoylecgonine and ecgonine-methyl-ester by plasma esterases [1]. The elimination half-lives of both cocaine and benzoylecgonine have been well documented, with reported ranges of approximately 20 to 90 minutes for cocaine [2-4], and six to eight hours for benzoylecgonine [5]; the limit of detectability for benzoylecgonine has been estimated to be 60 hours after cocaine use [1]. This limit has resulted in a clinical axiom that the presence of benzoylecgonine in a person's urine proves that cocaine use has occurred within the past two to three days [6,7]. Consequently, continued detection beyond this time may have substantial personal or treatment implications. For example, continued abuse of cocaine after entering treatment may be grounds for forced discharge from many inpatient drug treatment facilities and outpatient methadone maintenance programs. Moreover, employees often receive warnings after initial detection of drug use; evidence of subsequent use may result in termination of employment. However, there are important but little recognized restrictions to clinical generalizations from the cited kinetic studies of cocaine disposition [1-5]. First, the data reported in these studies are derived from shortterm, single-dose studies rather than after repeated doses or during long-term cocaine administration. Second, doses administered in these studies were low compared with street doses used by many cocainedependent individuals. Third, the subjects generally lacked substantial histories of cocaine or other substance abuse. Consequently, these kinetic studies may not accurately reflect the disposition or metabolism of cocaine after extraordinarily high recent doses or massive total exposure. Some authors have suggested that cocaine disposition or metabolism may vary with the amount or frequency of drug intake [4,8]. However, clinical examples supporting this hypothesis have not yet been cited. We report herein on three cases of veryhigh-dose cocaine abuse, in which benzoylecgonine continued to be detected for 10 to 22 days after cessation of cocaine intake.
The Importance of the Group A Streptococcus Capsule in the Pathogenesis of Human Infections: A Historical Perspective

The virulence of group A streptococci (GAS) correlates closely with expression of its surface antigen, M protein, and its hyaluronic acid capsule. In studies of human GAS infection, the former has received considerable attention. For several decades, however, systematic identification of encapsulated virulent strains by the mucoid colonies they produce has been neglected in clinical studies. In part, this may be due to the capsule's evanescent expression on artificial media, its repression during convalescent carriage, lack of expertise in recognizing its colonial morphology, and the growing tendency for clinical laboratories to eschew throat cultures in favor of rapid laboratory tests for group A polysaccharide. Older and more recent studies are reviewed here that emphasize the capsule's basic role in infection. We believe that it is time to refocus newer clinical studies and techniques on achieving early recognition of potentially dangerous, heavily encapsulated strains of GAS for which spread may be prevented.
Natural history of nonoperative management for grade 4 and 5 liver and spleen injuries in children

Abstract Purpose Nonoperative management is standard treatment of blunt liver or spleen injuries. However, there are few reports outlining the natural history and outcomes of severe blunt hepatic and splenic trauma. Therefore, we reviewed our experience with nonoperative management of grade 4 or 5 liver and spleen injuries. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with grade 4 or 5 (high-grade) blunt liver and/or spleen injuries from April 1997 to July 2007 at our children's hospital. Demographics, hospital course data, and follow-up data were analyzed. Results There were 74 high-grade injuries in 72 patients. There were 30 high-grade liver and 44 high-grade spleen injuries. Two patients had both a liver and splenic injury. High-grade liver injuries had a significantly longer length of intensive care and hospital stay compared to high-grade spleen injuries. There were also a significantly higher number of transfusions, radiographs, and total charges in the high-grade liver injuries when compared to the high-grade splenic injuries. The only mortality from solid organ injury was a grade 4 liver injury with portal vein disruption. In contrast, there was only one complication from a high-grade splenic injury—a pleural effusion treated with thoracentesis. There were 5 patients with complications from their liver injury requiring 18 therapeutic procedures. Three patients (10%) with liver injury required readmission as follows: one 5 times, one 3 times, and another one time. Conclusions Patients with high-grade liver injuries have a longer recovery, more complications, and greater use of resources than in patients with similar injuries to the spleen.
Cost Minimization and Managing Soil Nutrient Loading: Conflict or Compromise?

The consolidation of agricultural operations over time has led to fewer, larger farms. For livestock operations, this consolidation has also led to higher animal concentrations and a greater incidence of production externalities. While nitrogen leaching problems are relatively well documented, phosphorus runoff is fast gaining attention as the next big nutrient-related environmental problem associated with large, highly concentrated livestock operations. One approach for managing soil nutrient loading on dairy farms is for farm or feed mill operators to better manage what they feed livestock. The results suggest that, at typical feed prices, slight reductions in nitrogen loading and significant reductions in phosphorous loading can be accomplished with minimal increases in the cost of dairy rations. An important implication of these results is that the model can be used as a performance standard to help producers and feed millers determine the cost and level of nutrient reduction that are possible. The approach also suggests which ingredients could be most problematic relative to nutrient excretion goals. Avec le temps, la consolidation des activites agricoles a donne naissance a des exploitations plus vastes mais moins nombreuses. Dans le secteur de l'elevage, cette consolidation a aussi debouche sur une plus grande densite de la population animale et une incidence plus marquee des couts de production externes. Si l'on possede une documentation relativement abondante sur la lixiviation de l'azote, celle du phosphore attire de plus en plus l'attention, car on y voit le prochain probleme majeur de pollution associe aux grands elevages a forte concentration d'animaux. Une facon d'aborder la surcharge des sols en elements nutritifs dans les fermes laitieres consiste a amener les producteurs ou les fabricants d'aliments du betail a preter une plus grande attention a ce qu'ils donnent aux animaux. Les resultats de l'etude laissent croire qu'au prix typique des aliments pour animaux, on pourrait reduire legerement la charge d'azote et sensiblement celle de phosphore en majorant de facon minime le prix des rations pour bovins laitiers. Ces resultats impliquent notamment qu'on peut se servir du modele comme norme de rendement afin d'aider les producteurs et les fabricants d'aliments aetablir la reduction de la concentration des elements nutritifs realisable et son cout. Cette methode indique aussi quels ingredients souleveraient le plus de difficultes en regard des objectifs d'excretion des elements nutritifs.
Compiling global name-space parallel loops for distributed execution

Compiler support required to allow programmers to express their algorithms using a global name-space is discussed. A general method for the analysis of a high-level source program and its translation into a set of independently executing tasks that communicate using messages is presented. It is shown that if the compiler has enough information, the translation can be carried out at compile time; otherwise; run-time code is generated to implement the required data movement. The analysis required in both situations is described, and the performance of the generated code on the Intel iPSC/2 hypercube is presented. >
Culturing Carotid Body Cells of Adult Cats

Recently patch clamp techniques or optical fluorometric techniques have been applied to freshly dissociated or cultured carotid body glomus cells to understand chemosensory mechanisms of the carotid body. Results were not consistent. The inconsistency of the available data may result from various reasons. Firstly, the studied cells might have been heterogeneous due to the difficulty of differentiating between dissociated glomus cells and sheath cells. Secondly, culture conditions may alter characteristics of the glomus cells. Thirdly, differences in the age and species used to generate the available data make the interpretation more difficult. The purpose of this study is to standardise our culture techniques to overcome these difficulties.
Respiratory emergencies in children.

Acute obstructive respiratory emergencies in children are a common cause of emergency department visits. The severity of these conditions ranges from mild, self-limited disease to life-threatening forms of rapidly progressive airway obstruction. A high index of suspicion is necessary for prompt diagnosis and treatment. This review discusses general principles of assessing and managing respiratory emergencies in children, as well as clinical characteristics and treatment of specific conditions such as croup, epiglottitis, bacterial tracheitis, retropharyngeal abscess, foreign bodies, and inhalational injuries.
Selection and Monitoring of Patients for Immunotherapy (Peptide Vaccines)

Immunotherapy has been, de facto, offering tremendous progress. Promising results in cancer treatment as well as in many other types of disease in both preclinical and clinical studies provide a new ray of hope to patients and their family members. However, “immunotherapy” is not a simple entity, but consists of different active or passive approaches, including cell-based therapy, antibody therapy, adoptive T-cell therapy, immune checkpoint blockade therapy, and vaccination (DNA, protein, and peptide). Although immunotherapy is established as one of the options in cancer treatment in addition to surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, the molecular mechanisms by which it works are not well clarified. In this chapter, we focus on a novel immunogenomics/immunopharmacogenomics approach to possibly provide useful information to select and monitor patients who receive cancer vaccine treatment.
Development of Noviomimetics as C-Terminal Hsp90 Inhibitors.

KU-32 and KU-596 are novobiocin-derived, C-terminal heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) modulators that induce Hsp70 levels and manifest neuroprotective activity. However, the synthetically complex noviose sugar requires 10 steps to prepare, which makes translational development difficult. In this study, we developed a series of “noviomimetic” analogues of KU-596, which contain noviose surrogates that can be easily prepared, while maintaining the ability to induce Hsp70 levels. Both sugar and sugar analogues were designed, synthesized, and evaluated in a luciferase reporter assay, which identified compound 37, a benzyl containing noviomimetic, as the most potent inducer of Hsp70.