cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preoperative β-blockade and hypertension in the first hour of functional endoscopic sinus surgery

Objectives/Hypothesis Local anesthetic with epinephrine is commonly injected into the nasal mucosa during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Systemic absorption of epinephrine following local injection may occur, resulting in a mild sympathetic response. This study seeks to determine whether an exaggerated sympathetic response to epinephrine is demonstrated in patients undergoing FESS treated preoperatively with established pharmacologic beta (β) adrenoceptor blockade. Study Design A retrospective analysis of adult patients undergoing FESS at a tertiary care university hospital. Methods The primary outcome was the occurrence of an exaggerated hypertensive response within the first hour of surgical time defined by a relative increase (>20%) in the first measured intraoperative systolic blood pressure (SBP) prior to induction of anesthesia, or a single SBP value above 200 mm Hg. A mixed effects logistic regression model was developed to identify independent predictors of an exaggerated hypertensive response and describe the variance in the outcome attributable to the surgeon and anesthesiologist. Results There were 2,051 patients identified. Independent predictors of an exaggerated intraoperative hypertensive event included: preoperative β-blocker use (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.33), female gender (AOR: 1.92), body mass index (AOR: 1.03), lower baseline SBP (AOR: 0.93), and advanced age (AOR: 1.03). The C statistic for the model was 0.8881. Conclusions Preoperative β-blocker use is an independent predictor of an exaggerated hypertensive response within the first hour of operative time. An exaggerated hypertensive effect should be anticipated in patients presenting for FESS with established pharmacologic β-blockade, and caution should be applied to use of epinephrine-containing solutions. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 127:1496–1505, 2017
An improved method for determining carrier densities via drive level capacitance profiling

We demonstrate that an analytic relationship between coefficients in the Taylor expansion of the junction capacitance can be exploited to yield more precise determinations of carrier densities in drive level capacitance profiling (DLCP). Improvements are demonstrated on data generated according to the DLCP theory and in measurements performed on a CuInxGa1–xSe2 device. We argue that the improved DLCP method is especially important for non-uniform devices, which are more susceptible to noise in the capacitance data used in DLCP because they require that the amplitude of the drive level be restricted. Importantly, the analysis does not require the collection of any data other than what is typically collected during a DLCP measurement while employing fewer independent parameters than the model that is typically used in DLCP. Thus, we expect that it will be readily adoptable by those who perform DLCP measurements.
PROGENY PRODUCTION AND DURATION OF DEVELOPMENT OF RUSTY GRAIN BEETLES, CRYPTOLESTES FERRUGINEUS (STEPHENS) (COLEOPTERA: CUCUJIDAE), ON CRACKED AND WHOLE CORN

Progeny production and duration of development of rusty grain beetles, Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens), maintained at 43 and 75% RH were determined on whole and cracked corn. Number of progeny ...
3.17 – Procedural Learning in Humans

Procedural learning refers to learning how to do something. In this chapter we examine the similarities between procedural learning of motor skills, cognitive skills, rules, and stimulus-response habits. Procedural learning is not necessarily accompanied by awareness of what has been learned, and this knowledge is usually difficult to verbalize. As procedural learning progresses, performance often becomes automatic, in that it does not require attentional resources. We discuss evidence from neuropsychological patients, neuroimaging, and transcranial magnetic stimulation that converges on a role for the basal ganglia in procedural learning. Different corticostriatal loops appear to be implicated during different phases of learning.
Pre-operative screening for asymptomatic bacteriuria and associations with post-operative outcomes in patients with spinal cord injury

Context: Screening for asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) before non-urologic surgery is common but of unclear benefit. Our aim was to describe pre-operative ASB screening and post-operative outcomes in patients with neurogenic bladder due to spinal cord injury (SCI).Methods: This was a descriptive retrospective cohort study of adults with SCI undergoing neurosurgical spine or orthopedic lower limb surgery from 10/1/2012-9/30/2014 at Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers. National VA datasets and medical record review was used to describe frequency of pre-operative ASB screening, presence of ASB, and association with post-operative surgical site infection, urinary tract infection, and hospital readmission.Results: 175 patients were included. Although over half of patients had pre-operative ASB screening, only 30.8% actually had pre-operative ASB. 15.2% of patients screened were treated for ASB with antibiotics before surgery. Post-operative urinary tract infection (UTI) or surgical site infection (SSI) occurr...
Acoustic communication in the Bocon toadfish ( Amphichthys cryptocentrus )

The soundscapes of many coastal habitats include vocalizations produced by species of the family Batrachoididae (toadfish and midshipman). We describe the calling and grunting behavior of male Amphichthys cryptocentrus, a tropical toadfish, and predict how these vocalizations are influenced by conspecifics. We recorded individual males, which produced broadband grunts and multi-note, harmonic “boatwhistle” calls. Grunts were either in combination with calls or stand-alone. We used a null model to test if these latter grunts were produced at random or in response to calls from conspecifics. The model supports the hypothesis that grunts were in response to calls from neighboring males, suggesting acoustic competition. Using the most conservative estimate of hearing abilities we predict that males responded to the second harmonic of neighbor’s calls (230 Hz) at amplitudes of approximately 100–125 dB re 1μPa2/Hz. We also observed that call and grunt rates increased when males were exposed to higher rates of acoustic activity from neighboring fish. Fish used grunts to respond to background calls that occurred at different amplitudes, suggesting they responded to the calls of multiple neighboring fish and not just the highest amplitude neighbor. This communication with multiple fish within hearing range suggests a communication network in which the spatial distribution of individual toadfish relative to one another will impact their vocal behavior. Thus, the density and distribution, and not just abundance, of these toadfish at a given site will influence the characteristics of the chorus and the role of this species in the local soundscape.
Noise, Impedance, and Single-Channel Currents

Our purpose in studying single-channel currents from excitable membranes is twofold. First, we want to describe the voltage- and time-dependence of the ionic currents that make up the action potential. Second, we want to understand how the channels actually work at the molecular level. When we achieve this we can answer the following questions. What channel properties are responsible for macroscopic properties of membranes (threshold, action potential shape, velocity of propagation, refractory period, spontaneous firing, anesthetic block, and so on)? How do macromolecules flip randomly between conducting and nonconducting states? What causes the kinetics of this random flipping to be voltage-dependent and time-dependent? How do macromolecules select some ions over others? What causes their conductance to be voltage-dependent? How do anesthetics and toxins work?
Multimaterial Cardiovascular Printing

Abstract Tissues are hierarchical structures comprising many different materials that allow them to sustain, and adapt to, demanding mechanical and chemical stresses. The location, amount, and presence of materials can vary depending on a particular disease state. Understanding the different materials that comprise these tissues gives insight into the diagnosis and prognosis of an individual, since ultimately such material properties dictate the function of these tissues. 3D printing has the advantage of fabricating complex structures using a layered approach. For cardiovascular applications, this technology can be used for a variety of purposes, such as 3D models to visualize anatomy, surgical planning for device deployment, and direct fabrication of tissue. The ability to 3D print multiple materials allows the printed part to better recapitulate the tissue being mimicked, whether for visualization or functional purposes. In this chapter, we will review the different tissue types that comprise the cardiovascular system and the current state of literature that utilizes multimaterial 3D printing for either clinical or research applications related to the cardiovascular system.
Delivery of Anti-miRNA for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Therapy Using RNA Nanoparticles Targeting Stem Cell Marker CD133.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive disease with a short median time from relapse to death. The increased aggressiveness, drug resistance, disease relapse, and metastasis are associated with the presence of stem cells within tumors. Several stem cell markers, such as CD24, CD44, CD133, ALDH1, and ABCG2, have been reported, but their roles in breast cancer tumorigenesis remain unclear. Herein, we apply RNA nanotechnology to deliver anti-microRNA (miRNA) for TNBC therapy. The thermodynamically and chemically stable three-way junction (3WJ) motif was utilized as the scaffold to carry an RNA aptamer binding to CD133 receptor and a locked nuclei acid (LNA) sequence for miRNA21 inhibition. Binding assays revealed the specific uptake of the nanoparticles to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) and TNBC cells. Functional assays showed that cancer cell migration was reduced, miR21 expression was inhibited, and downstream tumor suppressor PTEN and PDCD4 expressions were upregulated. In vitro and in vivo studies revealed that these therapeutic RNA nanoparticles did not induce cytokine secretion. Systemic injection of these RNA nanoparticles in animal trial demonstrated high specificity in TNBC tumor targeting and high efficacy for tumor growth inhibition. These results revealed the clinical translation potential of these RNA nanoparticles for TNBC therapy.
Prevalence of in vitro synergistic antibiotic interaction between fosfomycin and nonsusceptible antimicrobials in carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Purpose We assessed the synergistic potential of fosfomycin and parenteral antibiotics among carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRP). Methodology Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined by broth microdilution for all antibiotics except fosfomycin, for which the gradient diffusion strip (GDS) method was used. The GDS cross method was performed to assess interactions between fosfomycin and: aztreonam, cefepime, ceftazidime, ceftazidime/avibactam, ceftolozane/tazobactam, meropenem, piperacillin/tazobactam and tobramycin. Only organisms that were nonsusceptible to the second drug were assessed. Results Among 153 clinical isolates, the fosfomycin MIC50/90 was 48/≥1024 mg l-1 . Synergy was detected in 131/604 (21.7 %) fosfomycin-antibiotic combinations among 76 (49.7 %) isolates. Ceftazidime (42/81, 51.9%) and ceftolozane/tazobactam (7/14, 50.0%) displayed synergy most frequently. Meropenem susceptibility was restored in 21 (13.7 %) isolates. Antagonism was not observed. Conclusion Fosfomycin synergy was commonly observed in vitro among CRP. These data may guide the selection of combination antibiotic therapy. The susceptibility to other antibiotics was restored in combination with fosfomycin, warranting further in vivo evaluation.
Functional OCT angiography reveals early physiological dysfunction of hyaloid vasculature in developing mouse eye.

Hyaloid vascular system (HVS) is a transient capillary network nourishing developing eye. Better study of the HVS regression correlated with eye development is essential for in-depth understanding ...
Structural design and behavior of prestressed cable domes

Abstract A cable dome system is a spatial network of cables and struts that are pin-jointed, and whose forces are eventually brought to balance by a perimeter ring beam and supporting walls or columns. This paper provides insights about the structural design and behavior of prestressed radial-type cable domes. Through a study of parametric effects, the paper emphasizes careful selection of geometric parameters and cable prestressing forces. A simplified planar model equivalent to that of a three-dimensional model is derived for efficient analysis and design under symmetric loading conditions. The equivalent planar parameters are obtained using the geometrical and nodal force equilibrium relationships, and the Principle of Virtual Work. Results from planar analysis are compared and validated with the three-dimensional analysis results. The calculation of initial member sizes and initial cable prestressing forces is explained. This is followed by a discussion of the structural behavior of cable domes under asymmetric snow loads and wind uplift and the ensuing stability issues. The analysis results revealed that either strut buckling or overall system stiffness were the dominant limit states, the former being the governing limit state in domes with fewer hoops. A design enhancement in the form of cable-stayed struts is as such recommended to not only increase the strut buckling strength, but also to substantially increase a dome’s load bearing capacity.
Physical and elemental analysis of Middle East sands from recent combat zones

Objective: The lungs are uniquely exposed to the external environment. Sand and dust exposures in desert regions are common among deployed soldiers. A significant number of Veterans deployed to the Middle East report development of respiratory disorders and diseases.Materials and methods: Sand collected from Fallujah, Iraq and Kandahar, Afghanistan combat zones was analyzed and compared to a sand sample collected from an historic United States (U.S.) battle region (Fort Johnson, James Island, SC, Civil War battle site). Sand samples were analyzed to determine the physical and elemental characteristics that may have the potential to contribute to development of respiratory disease.Results: Using complementary scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), it was determined that Iraq sand contained elevated levels of calcium and first row transition metals versus Afghanistan and U.S. sand. Iraq sand particle texture was smooth and round, and particles were considerably smaller than Afghanistan sand. Afghanistan sand was elevated in rare earth metals versus Iraq or U.S. sands and had sharp edge features and larger particle size than Iraq sand.Conclusions: These data demonstrate significant differences in Iraq and Afghanistan sand particle size and characteristics. Middle East sands contained elevated levels of elements that have been associated with respiratory disease versus control site sand, suggesting the potential of sand/dust storm exposure to promote adverse respiratory symptoms. Data also demonstrate the potential for variation based on geographical region or site of exposure. The data generated provide baseline information that will be valuable in designing future exposure studies.
A monitoring report of brucellosis in Bayinguoleng Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang in 2014

Objective To explore the epidemic status and dynamic situation of brucellosis in Bayinguoleng Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture (Bazhou) of Xinjiang and to provide a basis for prevention and treatment of brucellosis. Methods According to human epidemiological investigation scheme of Brucella in Xinjiang, 30 villages and towns in four counties of Bazhou were selected, different exposed occupations were extracted, epidemiological case investigation and serological detection were conducted, and the occupation, age, gender distribution and clinical manifestations of brucellosis were investigated. Serological detection was based on the Rose Bengal plate agglutination test (RBPT) and standard tube agglutination test (SAT), with reference to the "Brucellosis Diagnostic Criteria" (WS 269-2007) for diagnosis. Results A total of 4 804 cases were investigated, of the 1 977 blood samples 384 were positive, positive rate was 19.42%; new-onset brucellosis was 374 cases and incidence was 7.79%, the patients were closely contacted with livestock or livestock products. The positive rate of farmers was 25.24% (258/1 022), students was 24.39% (20/82) and herdsmen was 15.11% (50/331). Positive rate of serological detection in different ages was statistically significant (χ2 = 13.15, P 0.05). Conclusions Bazhou epidemic situation of Brucella is rebounded. Farmers are lack of the cognition of Brucella in Xinjiang. Prevention and control of brucellosis need to be strengthened. Key words: Brucellosis; Epidemiology; Serology; Survey
Optical Synthesis by Spectral Translation

We present a technique for optical-frequency synthesis by four-wave-mixing spectral translation of a soliton microcomb in a second microresonator. We demonstrate broadly tunable translation by over 600 nm and explore parametric amplification of the microcomb.
Limits to biomass productivity during fed-batch cultivation of Laminaria saccharina female gametophyte cells in a stirred-tank photobioreactor

This study compared the growth of Laminaria saccharina female gametophyte filamentous cell suspension cultures in a stirred-tank photobioreactor under batch and fed-batch nutrient addition modes over a 48-day cultivation period. Cultures were grown on GP2 artificial seawater medium (0.75 mM nitrate, N:P = 16:1) at pH 8.3 without iron or copper. Total equivalent nutrient loadings ranged from 0.5X to 9.1X GP2 for batch cultivation and 1.3X to 10.4X GP2 for fed-batch cultivation at delivery rates of 0.0067–0.16 mmol N L−1 day−1 based on nitrate. The multicellular, L. saccharina filamentous clumps were dispersed to nominal size of 100 μm by mechanical blending (~ 16,000 rpm, 5 s) prior to inoculation. Fed-batch addition of all nutrients enhanced biomass productivity by a factor of two over a batch cultivation process at equivalent total nutrient loadings in a stirred-tank photobioreactor. Peak productivity through fed-batch cultivation was 57 mg DCW L−1 day−1, and average final biomass densities exceeded 1800 mg DCW L−1, vs. 30 mg DCW L−1 day−1 and 800–900 mg DCW L−1 for batch cultivation. However, there was a limit to biomass productivity enhancement at cumulative nutrient loadings greater than 3X GP2 that was not the result of insufficient CO2 or light delivery. It is suggested that the formation of large, multicellular clumps approaching 1-mm diameter during stirred-tank cultivation may have ultimately reduced biomass productivity during fed-batch cultivation under nutrient-replete conditions. Therefore, future bioreactor processing strategies might consider mechanical blending to disperse the filament clumps during the cultivation process.
Impact of Type of Treatment Center and Access to Care on Mortality and Survival for Skull Base Chordoma and Chondrosarcoma

Background In adults with skull base chordoma or chondrosarcoma, the impact of treatment center and access to care have not been well described in regard to perioperative mortality and survival. Methods A query of the National Cancer Database (NCDB) and review of 1,102 adults—488 with chordomas and 614 with chondrosarcomas—was performed. The Kaplan–Meier's product limit method and chi-square analysis, respectively, assessed overall survival and 30-day (30D) and 90-day (90D) mortalities. Results For 925 patients who had surgery and available mortality data, the 30D and 90D mortality rates were 0.9 and 1.5%. Lower education level (p = 0.0185) and treatment at a nonacademic facility (p = 0.016) were associated with increased risk of 90-day mortality. Median follow-up was 52 months and analysis was dichotomized by histology. For those with skull base chordoma, patients from a larger metro size (p = 0.002), age below the median 52 years (p ≤ 0.001), and private insurance ( 70 Gy, and utilize proton radiotherapy consistent across both disease subsets. Conclusion Higher educational attainment and treatment at an academic facility were associated with decreased 90D mortality for patients with skull base chordoma and chondrosarcoma. For those with skull base chordoma, larger metro size, younger age, and private insurance were associated with prolonged survival; for those with chondrosarcoma, it was treatment at a high-volume or academic medical center, younger age, higher income or education, and private insurance.
Localized characteristic velocity (c*) for rocket combustion analysis based on gas temperature and composition via laser absorption spectroscopy

In this work, a method for experimentally determining a local characteristic velocity, c*, is presented for purposes of analyzing rocket combustion progress based on in-situ laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) measurements of temperature and gas composition. Measuring c* from spatially-varying thermochemical properties provides an alternative to the classical c* evaluation, which uses global chamber pressure and mass flow rate measurements. Accordingly, the novel method provides more detailed insight to the underlying mechanisms (multi-phase thermochemistry, diffusive mixing, turbulence, etc.) governing combustion performance in the spatial domain. The method is demonstrated on an RP-2/O2 liquid-propellant rocket engine (LRE) and a PMMA/O2 hybrid rocket combustion experiment. Localized c* results for the LRE are obtained via in-chamber measurements of temperature, CO, and CO2 and are presented over a range of pressures (P = 28-83 bar) and mixture ratios (MR = 2.5-5). For the hybrid rocket combustion experiment, one-dimensional tomographic reconstruction techniques are used to spatially-resolve the flow-field thermochemistry and obtain spatially-resolved measurements of temperature, CO, CO2, and H2O. These measurements are compiled to obtain spatially-resolved c* images of the combustion zone. The c* results from both experiments are compared to the theoretical c* expected from chemical equilibrium, providing for a method to assess combustion performance or progress locally within the combustion zone.
Reforming solitary confinement: the development, implementation, and processes of a restrictive housing step down reentry program in Oregon.

BACKGROUND: Over the past decade there have been numerous and impassioned calls to reform the practice of solitary confinement in U.S. prisons. This article examines the development, implementation, and processes of a restrictive housing reentry program in the Oregon Department of Corrections. It draws on data from official documents, site observations, and interviews with 12 prison officials and 38 prisoners. The Step Up Program (SUP) seeks to improve the living conditions in restrictive housing over business-as-usual, alleviate physiological and psychological harms of solitary confinement, and use rehabilitative programming to increase success upon returning to the general prison population or community. RESULTS: The impetus to change the culture and structure of restrictive housing was primarily the result of internal administrative reform. Prisoners assigned at random to housing assignments offered accounts of their daily activities suggesting that the SUP provides more time out-of-cell and greater access to other services and activities. Program participants preferred the living conditions in the SUP because they had more opportunities for social interaction and incentives for compliant behavior. However, views on the value of programming among respondents were mixed. CONCLUSIONS: The launch of the SUP occurred in early 2020, which was soon followed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the program was never fully implemented as intended. As Oregon returns to more normal operations, it is possible that the SUP will be able to include even more out-of-cell time, greater socialization opportunities, and increased access to programming and other beneficial activities. As we await the opportunity to conduct prospective psychological and behavioral analyses, this study provides tentative support for the use of step down reentry programs in restrictive housing units. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework, Preparing adults in custody for successful reentry: An experimental study of a restrictive housing exit program in Oregon. Registered 4 October 2019, https://osf.io/t6qpx/.
New species and records of Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 from the southwestern margin of the Guiana Shield (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae: Acidocerinae).

The Neotropical water scavenger beetle genus Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 is a diverse lineage with 34 described species. Here, three new species from the southwestern margin of the Guiana Shield are described using an integrative approach combining adult morphology and molecular data: Chasmogenus clinatus sp. n. (Brazil: Amazonas, Venezuela: Amazonas), C. gironae sp. n. (Venezuela: Amazonas), and C. inpa sp. n. (Brazil: Amazonas). Examination of the male genitalia is essential for confident identifications and thus unassociated females may prove extremely difficult to identify. New distributional records in Brazil for C. acuminatus Smith & Short, 2020 are provided as well as habitus images of newly described species and an updated key to the species from Venezuela, Suriname, Guyana, French Guiana and northern Brazil.
Clinical profile of children incidentally found to have advanced kidney failure.

No data exist on the epidemiology of children incidentally diagnosed with advanced kidney failure (KF) during evaluation for non-specific symptoms. This is likely related to unrecognized symptoms and signs of CKD. The objective of our study was to evaluate incidentally diagnosed patients with advanced KF requiring long-term kidney replacement therapy (KRT). An IRB-approved retrospective chart review of children who started KRT with dialysis (hemo- or peritoneal) was conducted. Included were children with no prior knowledge or diagnosis of underlying kidney disease with chronic kidney disease (CKD) disease stage 4 (GFR 15–29 mL/min/1.73 m2) or 5 (GFR < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2) at initial presentation and started on chronic KRT within 2 months of presentation. Of 177 patients initiating KRT during the study period, 26 (15%) were categorized as incidental advanced KF. This cohort with mean age 12.25 years consisted of 42% males, 54% African Americans included 46% with glomerular, and 54% with non-glomerular etiology for kidney failure. Vomiting (42%) and fatigue (39%) were most common, while growth failure (19%) and hyperkalemia (7%) were less frequent on initial presentation. Anemia (100%), hypertension (96%), hyperparathyroidism (96%), and hyperphosphatemia (92%) were the most frequently seen CKD comorbidities. Chronic KRT was started within 24 h in 62% and within 2 weeks in 88% of the cohort. Under-diagnosis of patients with advanced KF is most likely related to milder non-specific clinical symptoms and normal growth in the majority of patients. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
Quantum-inspired Optical Super-resolution Adaptive Imaging

We present an adaptive imaging scheme, inspired by quantum estimation theory, to estimate the number, brightness and locations of point sources in a constellation. Our simulation results demonstrate that the adaptive scheme outperforms traditional imaging.
European Union enlargement and equity markets in accession countries

Abstract The announcement of the European Union enlargement coincided with a dramatic rise in stock prices in accession countries. This paper investigates the hypothesis that the rise in stock prices was a result of the repricing of systematic risk due to the integration of accession countries into the world market. We found that firm-level stock price changes are positively related to the difference between a firm's local and world market betas. This result is robust to controlling for changes in expected earnings, country effects and other controls, although the magnitude of the effect is not very large. The differences between local and world betas explain nearly 22% of the stock price increase.
Translating school health research to policy. School outcomes related to the health environment and changes in mathematics achievement

This paper describes an exploration of the relationship between mathematic achievement and the school health environment relative to policy-driven changes in the school setting, specifically with regard to physical education/physical activity. Using school-level data, the authors seek to understand the relationship between mathematics achievement and the school health environment and physical education minutes. This work provides a description of the aspects of the school health environment, an exploration of the interrelationships between school health and student achievement, and an assessment of the effects of the school health policy and practice on student performance and health status. Based on these findings, we identify additional research necessary to describe the relationship between obesity and learning in children.
Construction of An Unbiased Spatio-Temporal Atlas of the Tongue During Speech

Quantitative characterization and comparison of tongue motion during speech and swallowing present fundamental challenges because of striking variations in tongue structure and motion across subjects. A reliable and objective description of the dynamics tongue motion requires the consistent integration of inter-subject variability to detect the subtle changes in populations. To this end, in this work, we present an approach to constructing an unbiased spatio-temporal atlas of the tongue during speech for the first time, based on cine-MRI from twenty two normal subjects. First, we create a common spatial space using images from the reference time frame, a neutral position, in which the unbiased spatio-temporal atlas can be created. Second, we transport images from all time frames of all subjects into this common space via the single transformation. Third, we construct atlases for each time frame via groupwise diffeomorphic registration, which serves as the initial spatio-temporal atlas. Fourth, we update the spatio-temporal atlas by realigning each time sequence based on the Lipschitz norm on diffeomorphisms between each subject and the initial atlas. We evaluate and compare different configurations such as similarity measures to build the atlas. Our proposed method permits to accurately and objectively explain the main pattern of tongue surface motion.
A lifting theorem for symmetric commutants

Let T1,...,T, C B(H) be bounded operators on a Hilbert space NH such that TiT1 + . + TnTnT < I-H. Given a symmetry j on NH, i.e., j2 = j*j = I-, we define the j-symmetric commutant of {Ti,...,Tn to be the operator space {A C B(N): TiA = jATi, i = 1, ..., n}. In this paper we obtain lifting theorems for symmetric commutants. The result extends the Sz.-Nagy-Foias commutant lifting theorem (n = 1, j = I-H), the anticommutant lifting theorem of Sebestyen (n 1, j = -Ia), and the noncommutative commutant lifting theorem (j = Ia). Sarason's interpolation theorem for H' is extended to symmetric commutants on Fock spaces. 1. LIFTING THEOREM FOR SYMMETRIC COMMUTANTS Let F+ be the unital free semigroup on n generators s,... ., sr, and let e be its neutral element. For any o... sik E F+, we define its length 11 := k, and lel = 0. On the other hand, if Ti E B(H), i = 1,.. ., n, we denote T, :Til ... and Te := IH. Let us recall from [Pol], [Po2], and [Po4] a few results concerning the noncommutative dilation theory for n-tuples of operators. A sequence of operators T := [Ti,... , T], Ti E B(H), i = 1, ... , n, is called contractive (or row contraction) if TIT1* + *.. + TnTn < I-. We say that a sequence of isometries V := [VI, ... , 1V] on a Hilbert space IC D H is a minimal isometric dilation of T if the following properties are satisfied: (i VI VI* + + Vn Vn* < IK; (ii Vi* I = Ti* I i = 1, . . n; (iii) IC = VaEF+ VaH. Consider the full Fock space on n generators F2(Hn) := ClE Q Hm Secondary 30E05. The author was partially supported by NSF Grant DMS-9531954. ?2000 American Mathematical Society 1705 This content downloaded from 207.46.13.103 on Thu, 20 Oct 2016 04:32:19 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms
Anti-Bribery Legislation in the United States and United Kingdom: A Comparative Analysis of Scope and Sentencing

Lawmakers and prosecutors continue to take aim at a major subset of global corruption - corporate bribery of foreign government officials. Specifically, while the enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the United States has risen to new records, the United Kingdom has revolutionized its anti-bribery law following global criticism of its previously relaxed legal regime. Both U.S. and U.K. anti-bribery laws, furthermore, apply extraterritorially and have the capability to entangle even the largest multinational companies in their legal frameworks. These all-encompassing frameworks hold significant consequences for both corporations and their employees, but the increasing power of anti-bribery law raises important questions regarding the proper scope of legislation on the subject, as well as the sentencing approaches to these crimes.
Book Review: Jeff Benedict's "Little Pink House": The Back Story of the Kelo Case

Little Pink House is a fast paced account by Jeff Benedict of the events surrounding the 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Kelo v. City of New London. Along with tracking Benedict’s story line, this review also highlights some of the core legal and policy issues that are an important part of the story for law-trained readers. At the core of the tale is how Kelo and a handful of her neighbors challenged the New London Development Corporation’s (NLDC) use of eminent domain for the economic redevelopment of the Fort Trumbull neighborhood. A libertarian-inspired public interest law firm named the Institute for Justice (IJ) agreed to represent the beleaguered property owners.
Colchicine-binding protein from human platelets and its effect on muscle myosin and platelet myosin-like thrombosthenin-M.

Abstract A colchicine-binding protein was isolated from sonically treated platelets by ammonium sulfate precipitation (40 to 50% saturation), followed by elution from DEAE-Sephadex A-50 with a KCl gradient. Disc electrophoresis revealed one major protein band. This protein bound 0.042 µmole of colchicine per 100 mg; it lacked ATPase activity, but markedly altered the cation requirements for the ATPase activity of both muscle myosin and thrombosthenin-M, and when added to either muscle myosin or thrombosthenin-M, produced a rise in relative viscosity which fell sharply upon addition of ATP.
The New Face of Government: How Public Managers Are Forging a New Approach to Governance

Creating a New Face for Government The Shape and Scope of Changes in Government Forces Driving Changes in Government Preparing an Organization to Accept Change Patterns of Change in Government How Public Managers Shape and Direct Change How Technology Is Shaping the Face of Government Technology and Systems Change People and the Changing Face of Government Changing Government Work Processes How Delivery Changes Are Reshaping Government Expanding the Delivery Structure of Government How Knowledge Facilitates Change in Government Preparing for Change: Trouble at the Sheriff's Office References Appendix A: Organizational Assessment Instrument Appendix B: URLs for Various Federal E-Government Transformation Reports Index
Proofreading in Vivo: EDITING OF HOMOCYSTEINE BY AMINOACYL-tRNA SYNTHETASES IN ESCHERICHIA COLI(∗)

Editing reactions are an essential part of biological information transfer processes that require high accuracy, such as replication, transcription, and translation. The editing in amino acid selection for protein synthesis by an aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase, the first proofreading process discovered in the flow of genetic information, prevents attachment of incorrect amino acids to tRNA. Of numerous editing reactions studied in vitro, only one, editing of homocysteine by methionyl-tRNA synthetase, has also been demonstrated in vivo. It is therefore unclear to what extent editing of errors is physiologically relevant. Here we show that isoleucyl- and leucyl-tRNA synthetases also edit homocysteine by cyclizing it to homocysteine thiolactone in the bacterium Escherichia coli. These and other data also suggest that metabolite compartmentation or channeling governs which synthetase participates in editing in bacterial cells.
CHARACTERISTICS OF INFECTIOUS PANCREATIC NECROSIS VIRUS.

Malsberger, R. G. (Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pa.), and C. P. Cerini. Characteristics of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus. J. Bacteriol. 86: 1283–1287. 1963.—Infectious pancreatic necrosis virus of trout is an ether-stable virus unable to cause hemagglutination or hemadsorption. During multiplication, the latent period was 5 hr and was followed by a logarithmic phase of virus release terminating at 12 hr postinfection. The virus yield per infected cell averaged 300 tcid 50 . Autointerference was demonstrated on serial passage of undiluted seed virus. Infectivity was maintained on storage at 4 C for approximately 5 weeks after which the loss of infectivity became exponential. At −70 C, the decrease in infectivity was exponential through 36 weeks with a total loss of approximately 0.5 log 10 units. The virus is antigenic, and cross-neutralization occurred between the original isolate and a feral strain isolated from tissue cultures of apparently normal trout. The reported characteristics, together with the known size of 30 mμ, are all consistent with the characteristics of the Picornavirus group.
Cutting Edge: NKG2D-Dependent Cytotoxicity Is Controlled by Ligand Distribution in the Target Cell Membrane

Although the importance of membrane microdomains in receptor-mediated activation of lymphocytes has been established, much less is known about the role of receptor ligand distribution on APC and target cells. Detergent-resistant membrane domains, into which GPI-linked proteins partition, are enriched in cholesterol and glycosphingolipids. ULBP1 is a GPI-linked ligand for natural cytotoxicity receptor NKG2D. To investigate how ULBP1 distribution on target cells affects NKG2D-dependent NK cell activation, we fused the extracellular domain of ULBP1 to the transmembrane domain of CD45. Introduction of this transmembrane domain eliminated the association of ULBP1 with the detergent-resistant membrane fraction and caused a significant reduction of cytotoxicity and degranulation by NK cells. Clustering and lateral diffusion of ULBP1 was not affected by changes in the membrane anchor. These results show that the partitioning of receptor ligands in discrete membrane domains of target cells is an important determinant of NK cell activation.
Merging Models: Integrity, Dynamic Separation of Duty and Trusted Data Management

One of the most important responsibilities of a database management system (DBMS) is maintaining the integrity of data. Traditional database integrity mechanisms have evolved in DBMSs to fulfill this need, including transaction management to maintain consistent results when requests execute concurrently and explicitly asserted integrity constraints to limit the values deemed legal. DBMSs also provide access controls that limit who is permitted to modify data. Despite these controls, however, DBMSs are still vulnerable to integrity violations due to users modifying data in unexpected ways or abusing their access authorizations for fraudulent or malicious purposes. Recent work in generalized integrity models, such as the Clark-Wilson model [Clark 1987, Clark 1988] and separation of duty models [Sandhu 1988, Badger 1989], provides new approaches for addressing these additional integrity needs. This paper interprets the Clark-Wilson model in the context of a DBMS, in general, and of a trusted relational DBMS, in particular. It presents a layered policy for Clark-Wilson integrity and dynamic separation of duty, that can augment the conventional database integrity capabilities of a commercial trusted DBMS and can coexist with its existing policies. Building on existing models, our dynamic separation of duty model defines a general control structure and dynamic authorization capabilities. Clark-Wilson integrity and separation of duty are realized in the policy as interpreted in terms of DBMS objects and their interrelationships.
PROFESSIONAL AUTONOMY AND ORGANIZATIONAL CONSTRAINT: The Case of Engineers

Recent discussions of the professions agree on the centrality of autonomy to professionalism but disagree whether organizational employment is consistent with the maintenance of professionals' traditional autonomy. This article analyzes autonomy in the engineering profession with a view to discovering both whether engineers are able to maintain high levels of autonomy in an organizational context and whether autonomy is as central to job satisfaction among engineers as the literature suggests. The data used are drawn from a survey questionnaire mailed to a sample of 800 engineers in the Rochester, New York area in 1986. Two major findings are discussed. First, although engineers are subject to certain constraints, they do appear to maintain relatively high levels of professional autonomy, especially concerning how their jobs are actually carried out. Second, despite the high value engineers place on autonomy, its relationship to job satisfaction is not a simple one. The strong effect on job satisfaction of one type of autonomy (the ability to choose the projects on which one works) may be the result not of autonomy per se but whether engineers find their work interesting.
Blockage of the HERG human cardiac K+ channel by the gastrointestinal prokinetic agent cisapride

Cisapride, a gastrointestinal prokinetic agent, is known to cause long Q-T syndrome and ventricular arrhythmias. The cellular mechanism is not known. The humanether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG), whi...
An empirical typology of problem drinkers from the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test.

Abstract In a program of treatment for persons convicted of driving while intoxicated, data from 504 male participants were collected and analyzed to identify groups homogeneous with respect to symptoms and consequences of problem drinking as indicated on the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST). Cluster analysis of MAST responses yielded 7 such groups, differing in level and pattern of alcohol-related problems. This classification was shown: (a) to be homogeneous and reliable; (b) to discriminate effectively within several sets of external criteria — specifically, scales and profiles from the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and clinical ratings of reasons for drinking and of participation and outcome from treatment; and (c) to predict alcoholism criteria more powerfully than dimensional use of the MAST. Categorical representation of alcoholism from its psychosocial symptoms was shown to be a valid and valuable structural approach.
Letter to Cancer Center Directors: Progress in Quantitative Imaging As a Means to Predict and/or Measure Tumor Response in Cancer Therapy Trials

The purpose of this correspondence is to alertcancer center directors and their associated biomedical imaging pro-grams about recent progress in quantitative imaging as a means topredictand/ormeasuretumorresponsetodrugorradiationtherapy,adevelopmentthatiscriticalto(forexample)implementingadaptivetherapy trial designs. There have been a number of initiatives in thisarea by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the RadiologicalSociety of North America (eg, the Quantitative Imaging BiomarkersAlliance
Unsupervised learning and universal communication

Unsupervised learning may be modeled by an extreme version of the universal channel coding problem. Suppose a channel decoder knows only that a randomly generated block code is being employed at the other end of a discrete memoryless channel. The channel statistics, the codebook, the code distribution, the rate, the blocklength, and even the input alphabet are unknown. Using a novel decoding measure, it is shown that the channel outputs may be correctly clustered with vanishing error probability at all rates under capacity. Results provide theoretical motivation for certain heuristic clustering techniques and, more widely, suggest that there are gains to be had via non-pairwise similarity measures.
Tibial eminence fractures

We recommend a treatment algorithm for tibial eminence fracture management (Fig.11). Displaced and irreducible fractures require arthroscopic or open treatment based on surgeon preference. Objective sagittal plane laxity does not translate into long-term clinical or subjective instability. Every effort should be made to obtain the best possible reduction with stable fixation, when needed, to maximize function.
An update on the regulatory status of PDT photosensitizers in China

Numerous photosensitizers have been developed and evaluated in China. HiPorfin, a hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) received the first regulatory approval in the early 2000s. Aila, a topical formulation containing predrug 5-aminolevulinic acid, received the regulatory approval in 2007. Recently, new drug applications have been filed for several hematoporphyrin derivatives and a zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) derivative. This short report will summarize the current regulatory status of Chinese photosensitizers developed for photodynamic therapy (PDT).
What is the relationship between ultraviolet B and global incidence rates of colorectal cancer

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between ultraviolet B and global incidence of colorectal cancer, while controlling for relevant covariates. Linear regression was used to assess the relationship between latitude and incidence rates of colon cancer in 173 countries. Multiple linear regression was employed to investigate the relationship between ultraviolet B dose and colorectal cancer rates while controlling for per capita intake of energy from animal sources, per capita health expenditure, pigmentation, and life expectancy. Data on all variables were available for 139 countries. Incidence of colon cancer was highest in countries distant from the equator (R(2) = 0.50, p < 0.0001). UV B dose (p < 0.0001) was independently, inversely associated with incidence rates of colorectal cancer after controlling for intake of energy from animal sources, per capita health expenditure, pigmentation, and life expectancy (R(2) for overall model = 0.76, p < 0.0001). Consistent with previous research, UVB was inversely associated with incidence of colon cancer. Further research on vitamin D and prevention of colon cancer in individuals should be conducted, including studies of higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations than have been studied to date.