cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
86. EARLY IMPACT OF A HEALTH EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION CURRICULA ON RESIDENT KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND SKILL IN CROSS-CULTURAL CARE

Background GME programs that provide targeted training on the care of disadvantaged populations may result in improved cross-cultural care and decreased health disparities and patient discrimination. In 2018, the ACGME highlighted lack of formal education on knowledge and strategies to address health disparities as a national priority need. Currently, many residents do not receive training on structural competencies and biases that contribute to poor health, nor are they equipped with skills to advocate for patients who disproportionately experience inequity from structural and social determinants of health (SDOH). Design The HEDI curriculum at Cohen Children's Medical Center expands resident training to include sessions on: implicit bias, use of interpreters, health literacy, health disparities, community engagement, LGBTQ health, mistrust, racism, SDOH, cultural and structural competency. Prior to curriculum initiation, residents completed the validated Cross-Cultural Care Survey (CCCS). Trainees engage in monthly, interactive workshops and case-based simulations. Pre and post surveys assess resident knowledge, skill, and attitudes related to each session. Descriptive analyses and Fisher's Exact Test assess bivariate associations. Results Of the 49 residents who completed the CCCS, 67% felt unprepared to deliver cross-cultural care. 18% identified lack of experience and 30% reported inadequate training as barriers to delivering cross-cultural care. Attendance of at least 1 HEDI session was associated with a decrease in residents personal feeling of helplessness when caring for patients of different cultures (p Conclusion Early results from the HEDI curriculum show residents' improvement in preparedness and attitudes in providing cross-cultural care. Further research is warranted to examine whether curricular elements provide a long-term, sustained impact on resident knowledge, skills, and attitudes, which are necessary to combat and eliminate health disparities.
Role of the ocean in climate stabilization

Abstract The ocean has absorbed over 90% of the heat from recent anthropogenic greenhouse warming. This chapter reviews a variety of ocean-related methods for slowing down and eventually halting this warming. “Blue carbon” reservoirs store more carbon than terrestrial equivalents, although are still limited compared with global negative emissions needs. Oceanic carbon uptake could be augmented via iron fertilization, although this method presents challenges. Algal-based biomass energy with carbon capture and storage (ABECCS) offers opportunities for carbon-neutral fuel alternatives as well as for negative emissions. Total carbon dioxide removal potential is estimated at 15–33 Pg CO2/year by mid-century and 33–95 Pg CO2/year by the end of the century, which could offset current and projected CO2 emissions. ABECCS can also coproduce high-protein feed for aquaculture and reduce demand for agricultural land. Combined with effective ocean blue carbon management and terrestrial methods, ocean-based carbon removal can play a critical role in climate stabilization.
Salome Gluecksohn-Waelsch. 6 October 19077 November 2007

Salome Gluecksohn-Waelsch was a pioneer in establishing the field of mammalian developmental genetics, bringing together experimental embryology and genetics at a time when the role of genes in dev...
Scientific representation and dissimilarity

In this essay, I examine the role of dissimilarity in scientific representation. After briefly reviewing some of the philosophical literature which places a strong emphasis on the role of similarity, I turn to examine some work from Carroll and Borges which demonstrates that perfect similarity is not valuable in the representational use of maps. Expanding on this insight, I go on to argue that this shows that dissimilarity is an important part of the representational use of maps—a point I then extend to the case of scientific representation. Relying on some work from Latour, I argue that dissimilarity plays an essential role in representational practice, by providing novel forms of manipulation and use which affords the achievement of various epistemic and nonepistemic aims. After showing how this point connects to some other literature on scientific representation, I discuss some examples of the value of dissimilarity in the use of representational vehicles. Overall, I argue that to understand scientific representation, we will need to consider more than just similarity. We will need to explore dissimilarities as well.
Education and transformation: an argument for college in prison

This essay explores the dynamics of what it means to learn inside of a prison by featuring a narrative written by an individual who has been incarcerated for more than 20 years. The narrative explores the challenges and successes of earning a baccalaureate degree while in prison, including highlights from several courses and the overall significance of the college experience. The essay then features a dialogue between the incarcerated author and a university professor who teaches a course at the prison. The essay as a whole underscores the value of higher education in prison and the importance of supporting these types of programs.
Advancing Accessible 3D Design for the Blind and Visually-Impaired via Tactile Shape Displays

Affordable rapid 3D printing technologies have become key enablers of the Maker Movement by giving individuals the ability to create physical finished products. However, existing computer-aided design (CAD) tools that allow authoring and editing of 3D models are mostly visually reliant and limit access to people with blindness and visual impairment (BVI). In this paper I address three areas of research that I will conduct as part of my PhD dissertation towards bridging a gap between blind and sighted makers. My dissertation aims to create an accessible 3D design and printing workflow for BVI people through the use of 2.5D tactile displays, and to rigorously understand how BVI people use the workflow in the context of perception, interaction, and learning.
CAFA's Impact on Class Action Lawyers

The Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 (CAFA) reflected a profound mistrust of class action lawyers. Three years after its enactment, examination of lawyers' adaptation strategies offers an emerging picture of the statute's impact on class actions and class action lawyers. CAFA, like the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act a decade earlier, shifted class action practice in ways that appear likely to strengthen the upper tier of the plaintiff class action bar. CAFA has affected not only the division of labor between state and federal court, but also horizontal forum selection among federal courts and class action claim selection. Analysis of these effects suggests that CAFA is achieving some of its stated objectives but is unlikely to squelch class actions or to disempower leading members of the class action bar.
Upfront RVAD Strategy and Early Clinical Outcomes in LVAD Patients

Purpose Right ventricular failure (RVF) after LVAD is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. “Delayed right ventricular assist device (RVAD)”, as a surgical or percutaneous rescue strategy, carries high complication rates. We recently changed our practice and use “Upfront RVAD” (concurrent with LVAD implant) in selected high-risk pts (INTERMACS 1, severe RVF and renal failure). We sought to investigate the effect of this novel strategy on in-hospital mortality and adverse events. Methods We retrospectively reviewed consecutive pts who received primary LVAD implant between 1/2015 and 8/2019. This cohort was divided into 4 groups (Gs): G1- no evidence of RVF and no RVAD; G2 - RVF treated with inotropes >2 wks; G3 - Delayed RVAD; G4 - Upfront RVAD. Clinical outcomes included in-hospital mortality, renal replacement therapy (RRT), stroke and length of stay (LOS). Results 225 pts were enrolled in the study: G1 (n=117, 52%); G2 (n=48, 21.3%); G3 (n=26, 11.6%); G4 (n=34, 15.1%). Frequency of INTERMACS 1 profile was significantly different among groups: G1 10.3%; G2 8.3%; G3 11.5%; G4 51.4%; p=0.001. G4 had significantly lower albumin and longer bypass time compared to the other groups. RVAD strategy (Delayed (G3) vs. Upfront (G4)) and type (surgical vs. percutaneous) varied by implant year (Fig 1a). Mean time to Delayed RVAD (G3) was 2.54 (1-15) days. In-hospital mortality of pts in G4 was similar to G2 and numerically lower than G3. RRT and stroke were the highest in G3 and were similar in G4 vs.G2 (Fig 1b-d). Median (IQR) ICU LOS was G1 7(6-10); G2 15(10-21); G3 22(14-28); G4 20(14-41) days (p Conclusion In-hospital mortality, RRT and stroke events were markedly lower in pts who received Upfront compared to Delayed RVAD. Notably, despite the majority of Upfront RVAD pts being INTERMACS 1, mortality and adverse events were similar to those of pts treated with prolonged inotropes for RVF without RVAD support (
Uncertainty propagation in reduced order models based on crystal plasticity

Abstract In this work, an uncertainty propagation study is performed based on simulated ensembles of statistical volume elements (SVE) used to inform a reduced order internal state variable model, focusing on model form and uncertainties in numerical simulations. A rate-dependent polycrystal plasticity finite element model (CP-FEM) of cartridge brass is calibrated to room-temperature uniaxial tension testing data of an annealed sample. Model forms are considered with and without the inclusion of back stress in the CP model. Three sizes of SVE are explored for simulation uncertainty effects. Effects are explored with regard to the parameters of a Bammann–Chiesa–Johnson (BCJ) macroscopic viscoplasticity model, calibrated element-wise to SVEs from an ensemble modeled using CP-FEM simulations exploring quasi-static uniaxial tension. Variability in stress–strain response at multiple defined length-scales is measured. The selection of model form is discussed. The numerical simulation uncertainty of the model reduction process is quantified.
Comparison of Finite-Element and Finite-Difference Methods*

Publisher Summary The finite-element method starts with a variational statement of the problem and introduces piecewise definitions of the functions defined by a set of mesh point values. The finite-difference method starts with a differential statement of the problem and proceeds to replace the derivatives with their discrete analogs. In dynamics problems, finite-element equations are invariably integrated forward in time with finite-difference techniques rather than using a time dimension on an element and using the integration scheme that yields results. The finite-difference method has found the variational approach of the finite-element method useful in producing symmetric difference equations, the discrete analog of a system of self-adjoint differential equations, and something that has eluded finite-difference approximations for some time. The object in the finite-element method is to construct a family of functions with piecewise definitions over regions, in this case, intervals that are sufficiently general in character and in which the actual solution may be approximated as closely as desired.
Strategizing on behalf of social enterprises: the case of the Metropolitan Economic Development Association and Catalyst

This article adds to the literature on social enterprise by drawing on the strategy-as-practice tradition of strategy research. There, strategy is seen as something an organization does, not as som...
Prevalence of Osteoporosis Treatment and Its Effect on Post-Operative Complications, Revision Surgery and Costs After Multi-Level Spinal Fusion

Study Design:Retrospective cohort study.Objective:To study the prevalence of pre-operative osteoporosis treatment, and its effect on risk of ORC, revision surgery and costs in osteoporotic patients...
High-harmonic generation in solids

Abstract The last decade saw attosecond physics, traditionally focused on atomic and molecular gases, move rapidly into the condensed matter phase. This expansion was stimulated by experimental observation of high-harmonic generation (HHG) from solids. HHG, first observed in atomic gas a few decades ago, is a unique process underlying the creation of attosecond pulses and has many other applications involving imaging and controlling electron dynamics. Although insights from strong field atomic physics were instrumental to our understanding of HHG in solids, the unique properties of crystalline structure lead to a rich variety of new phenomena unique to solids. This has resulted in a rapid expansion of the field, as is evidenced by the growing body of research at the intersection of attosecond physics and condensed matter. Here, we review some notable advances over the past decade, highlighting open questions and some recent developments.
Report of the Texas peanut root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne haplanaria (Tylenchida: Meloidogynidae) from American pitcher plants ( Sarracenia sp.) in California

During the winter and spring of 2021, the root-knot nematodes were extracted from samples of galled roots of potted American pitcher plants (Sarracenia sp.). Samples were collected from a botanical garden nursery in Los Angeles County, California. The root-knot nematode was identified by molecular methods as Meloidogyne haplanaria. In the USA, M. haplanaria was initially found in Texas, and subsequently reported from Arkansas and Florida. Molecular characterization of the Californian M. haplanaria isolate was done using the analysis of the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA, ITS rRNA, mitochondrial l-rRNA, COI, and nad5 gene sequences. Some rRNA gene clusters of M. haplanaria were similar with those of M. arenaria. Possible hybridization events within mitotic parthenogenetic root-knot nematodes are discussed. This study confirmed that reliable diagnostics of M. haplanaria should be based on mtDNA sequence analysis. This is a first report of M. haplanaria from Sarracenia sp. and California. Consequently, this nematode was considered to be eradicated from this botanical garden nursery and the State of California.
Initial velocity and equilibrium kinetics of myokinase.

Abstract The mechanism of myokinase (ATP-AMP phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.4.3) from rabbit muscle has been investigated by studies of equilibrium isotope exchange and initial velocities. The mechanism for the myokinase reaction is random bi bi. Under most conditions, equilibrium isotope exchange between AMP and ADP is faster than that between ATP and ADP. The rate-limiting steps in the reaction include the dissociations of AMP, ADP, and ATP from the enzyme. Myokinase has two binding sites, one for magnesium-chelated nucleotides and the other for unchelated nucleotides. Michaelis constants for the four reactants are presented. AMP and ADP can form inhibitory complexes of the "dead end" type. Adenosine 5'-monosulfate is a competitive inhibitor with respect to AMP.
Generalizability and Validity of the Use of a Case Analysis Assessment to Make Visible the Quality of Teacher Candidates

The use of case analysis as an accountability measure for demonstrating teacher candidates' abilities to meet targeted course, institutional, and state teaching standards for student motivation and classroom management was evaluated. The findings supported the generalizability of case analysis ratings made using a standards-based scoring rubric, and the ratings were shown to differentiate levels of performance in accordance with those standards. Support for the content representativeness of the performance assessment was also obtained using criteria suggested by Crocker (1997), including the realism, frequency, necessity, and importance of the targeted teaching behaviors to actual teaching practice. The findings also provided initial support for the predictive validity of the case analysis assessment for appraising candidates' overall abilities to manage a public school classroom.
Abstract 29: Calcium/calmodulin-dependent Protein Kinase Kinase β (CaMKK β) is Neuroprotective in Stroke in Aged Mice

Background: CaMKK β is a major kinase activated by elevated levels of intracellular calcium. Our previous data has suggested that CaMKK β is neuroprotective after stroke in young mice as inhibition of this kinase aggravated stroke outcome. As aging is an important determinant of stroke outcomes, here we evaluated the functional role of CaMKK β in stroke in aged mice. Methods: Aged wild type (WT) males received intracerebral injections of lentiviral vectors carrying either CaMKK β (LV-CaMKK β) or GFP (LV-GFP) 7 days before middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO, 90 minutes). Acute infarcts and neurological deficits scores were then analyzed at 72 hours post MCAO. In chronic survival studies, aged male CaMKK β knockout (KO) and WT mice were subjected to 60 minutes MCAO. Following stroke, long-term behavioral assessments were continuously performed for 3 weeks in KO and WT mice until the sacrifice for tissue loss assessments. Results: Baseline levels of CaMKK β in aged brain were significantly lower when compared to that in young mice measured by Western Blots (Aged WT 0.66±0.06 vs. Young WT 1.00±0.05, n=3 p/g, p<0.05). Administration of LV-CaMKK β to WT mice increased levels of this protein in brain (LV-CaMKK β 1.65±0.11 vs. LV-GFP control 1.07±0.05, n=3 p/g, p<0.05). Further, LV-CaMKK β treatment reduced infarcts assessed 3 days after stroke (total: LV-CaMKK β 16.76± 3.16% vs. LV-GFP control 26.43±4.30%, n=7 p/g, p<0.05) and neurological deficits [LV-CaMKK β 1(1) vs. LV-GFP 2(1), median (interquartile range), n=7 p/g, p<0.05]. In chronic survival experiments, CaMKK β KO mice showed increased tissue loss in ipsilateral hemispheres measured at 3 weeks after stroke (tissue loss: Aged KO 20.59±1.90% vs. Aged WT 11.89±1.00%, n=6 KO, 7 WT, p<0.05). Additionally, KO mice had worsened functional recovery when compared to WT controls during 3 weeks survival measured by rotarod test, locomotor activity in an open field, and in the novel object recognition test. Conclusions: Our studies demonstrated that CaMKK β is neuroprotective in stroke in the aged. As the elderly population has worse functional recovery after stroke, our data suggested that this protein may be a potential target for reducing long term disability of stroke patients.
An Analysis of Accounting Professionals’ Work-Life Balance in the Post-Sarbanes-Oxley Era

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) of 2002 fundamentally changed the accounting profession and dramatically increased the workload of accounting professionals, resulting in lower work-life balance for a large segment of the accounting profession (Gullapalli 2005). At the same time, work-life balance has surpassed compensation and benefits as the most important factor in employee job satisfaction for accounting professionals (AICPA 2004). Yet, despite the importance of work-life balance issues in the accounting profession (AICPA 2011), prior research has not examined work-life balance perceptions across different segments of the accounting profession. In this study, we survey 1,063 accounting professionals from a wide range of organizational contexts to (1) empirically compare accounting professionals’ perceptions of work-life balance issues (i.e., work-family conflict, burnout, and AWAs) across large and small public accounting firms; (2) to compare audit professionals’ perceptions of work-life balance issues to the perceptions of tax professionals; and (3) to compare public accounting professionals’ perceptions of work-life balance issues to private accounting professionals’ perceptions. We find that accounting professionals at larger firms perceive higher levels of work-family conflict and job burnout compared to accounting professionals at smaller firms. Furthermore, although accounting professionals across all firm types (i.e., Big 4, mid-sized, and local firms) generally perceive similar levels of organizational support for AWAs, Big 4 accounting professionals perceive significantly lower levels of viability regarding the use of AWAs (i.e., Big 4 accounting professionals are less likely to believe that they could remain effective employees while using AWAs). We also find some evidence of within-firm workload stability given that we observe no significant differences between the perceptions of audit and tax professionals across our work-life balance measures. Finally, using open-ended participant responses, we offer several recommendations for firms to improve their work-life balance efforts.
COMPARISON OF ARGON PLASMA COAGULATION AND FORMALIN INSTILLATION IN THE TREATMENT OF RADIATION INDUCED HAEMORRHAGIC PROCTOCOLITIS

Background: Radiotherapy is routinely used in the treatment of pelvic malignancies and about 2–5% of these patients develop radiation-induced proctitis or proctocolitis. This complication of radiotherapy is treated in different ways. Two of these treatments, argon plasma coagulation (APC) and formalin instillation, have both been reported as to be successful modalities, but data comparing them are scarce. We conducted this study to compare these two treatment options. Methods: We reviewed the charts of patients who had radiation-induced proctocolitis and who were treated endoscopically at our tertiary care cancer centre with either APC or formalin instillation. Outcomes of the two treatments were compared in terms of bleeding control after the first session of treatment, the number of sessions required and the nal response to therapy. Results: Out of a total of 26 patients presenting with haemorrhagic radiation proctocolitis, 11 were treated with APC and 15 with formalin instillation. Success after the rst session was 53% in the formalin instillation group compared to 18% in the APC-treated group. On repeated sessions, the final response to both treatment modalities was comparable. Conclusion: Efficacy of APC and formalin instillation in the treatment of haemorrhagic radiation proctocolitis is comparable although formalin showed a better outcome after the first session. Key words: Argon plasma coagulation, formalin instillation, proctitis, radiation-induced colitis
Cholinergic mechanisms of analgesia produced by physostigmine, morphine and cold water swimming

This study concerns the cholinergic involvement in three experimental procedures which produce analgesia. Rats were given one of seven treatments: saline (1.0 ml/kg, i.p.); morphine sulfate (3.5, 6.0 or 9.0 mg/kg, i.p.); physostigmine salicylate (0.65 mg/kg, i.p.); warm water swim (3.5 min at 28 degrees C); and cold water swim (3.5 min at 2 degrees C). Each rat was tested on a hot plate (59.1 degrees C) once prior to and 30 min after treatment. Immediately after the last test the rats were killed with focussed microwave radiation. Levels of acetylcholine (ACh) and choline (Ch) in six brain areas (brain stem, cerebral cortex, hippocampus, midbrain, cerebellum and striatum) were analyzed by gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. Morphine (9.0 mg/kg), physostigmine and cold water swimming caused significant analgesia. Morphine elevated the levels of ACh in the cerebellum and striatum, cold water swimming--in the cerebellum, striatum and cortex, and physostigmine--in the striatum and hippocampus. Levels of choline were elevated by morphine in the cerebellum, cortex and hippocampus, while cold water swimming elevated levels of choline in the cerebellum, cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Physostigmine did not change levels of choline in any of the brain areas studied. These data suggest that the analgetic effects of morphine or cold water swimming may be mediated by components of the cholinergic system that differ from those involved in the analgetic effects of physostigmine.
Revising the Western Connecting Genre Rituals and American Western Revisionism in TV’s Sons of Anarchy

In this article, I analyze the TV show Sons of Anarchy (SOA) and how the cable drama revisits and revises the American Western film genre. I survey ideological contexts and tropes that span Western...
Substituent effects on the frontier molecular orbitais of aryl isonitriles

Abstract An investigation of the frontier molecular orbitais ofo- and p-RC6H4NC (R=H, CH3, NO2, F, Cl, CF3, OCH3) was carried out so that a thorough understanding of the intricacies of σ donation and π acceptance could be developed and used to modify subtly the electron density on metal centers. The results of this study-Indicate that the substituent position (ortho vs. para ) does alter the electron density in the ligand appreciably and that substitution of the phenyl ring with the groups indicated has a smaller effect on the σ-donating ability than it does on the π-accepting ability of the isonitrile ligand. The π-accepting abilities of the isonitrile ligands increase in the order o-, p-CH3OC6H4NC, o-, p-CH3C6H4NC, o-, p-C6H5NC, o-, p-FC6H4NC, o-, p-CF3C6NC, o-, p-ClC6H4NC, o-, p-NO2C6H4NC while the σ-donating ability decreases in this order. The energies of the σ-donor and π-acceptor orbitais are shown to correlate well with observed E 1 2 values of Cr(RC6H4NC)6 and Mn(RC6H4NC)6+1 complexes. This demonstrates how the theoretical results can be useful in understanding the observed physical properties of isonitrile-metal complexes.
Phase relations in the uranium-mercury system

Abstract Published data on the phase boundaries of the uranium-mercury system are inconsistent and incompatible with available thermodynamic data. In an attempt to resolve the observed discrepancies, differential thermal analyses (DTA) of alloys sealed in tantalum capsules were carried out. These data and X-ray and vapor pressure data were used to construct phase diagrams for constrained vapor conditions and for 1 atm pressure. The existence of the three compounds UHg4, UHg3 and UHg2 was confirmed and evidence for an additional compound, UHgx with x ≈ 1.0,is presented. DTA data indicate that this compound decomposes to β-uranium and UHg2 at 725 °C. The compounds UHg2, UHg3 and UHg4 decompose peritectically at 845, 735 and 455 °C, respectively. At 845 °C and a mercury vapor pressure estimated to be about 90 atm the compound UHg2 decomposes to γ-uranium and a mercury-rich liquid containing approximately 10 at.% uranium.
Using a Hydraulically Balanced Beam System in Control Education

This paper discusses a low cost solution to teaching controls in the laboratory through the use ofa novel balance beam. The balance beam provides a vehicle to study many aspects of both control implementation and control algorithms. Due to the complexity of the system, a full semester of laboratory exercises is provided for even advanced students. The flexibility of the system provides challenging exercises for different levels of education. A low overall cost translates to accessibility to more schools. The ability to achieve good tracking performance with a simple cascaded loop controller makes this an ideal tool for teaching controls in a laboratory setting.
Viremia in experimental Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

Inoculation of the buffy coat of blood from guinea pigs infected with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease resulted in passage of this disease to recipient animals. This demonstrates that there is a viremia in experimental Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. These findings suggest that the hematogenous route may be implicated in the human infection and that the disease may possibly be transmitted by blood transfusions.
Persistence of Daily Geopotential Heights over the Southern Hemisphere

Abstract An analysis has been made of the persistence of geopotential heights at 1000 and 500 mb over the Southern Hemisphere for both summer and winter seasons. The focus is on lagged autocorrelation T0 the effective time between independent samples and low order autoregressive (AR) models fit to the data. A red noise AR(1) model provides the best fit to the data over most of the domain, especially in midlatitudes. However, there are substantial areas where AR(2) and AR(3) processes provide the best fit and these areas are much the same at both levels and for both seasons. Over Antarctica low-frequency trends appear to provide persistence exceeding that of the red noise process and contribute to the higher order AR processes there. However, over Austalasia the AR(2) processes fit to the data imply a damped quasi-periodicity and T0 values less than for the corresponding red noise process. Such behavior may be linked to the 40–50 day oscillation of Madden and Julian. Smallest T0 values are found over the s...
Wavelength dependence of nitrate radical quantum yield from peroxyacetyl nitrate photolysis : Experimental and theoretical studies

The photolysis wavelength dependence of the nitrate radical quantum yield for peroxyacetyl nitrate (CH(3)C(O)OONO(2), PAN) is investigated. The wavelength range used in this work is between 289 and 312 nm, which mimics the overlap of the solar flux available in the atmosphere and PAN's absorption cross section. We find the nitrate radical quantum yield from PAN photolysis to be essentially invariant; Phi(NO3)(PAN) = 0.30 +/- 0.07 (+/-2sigma) in this region. The excited states involved in PAN photolysis are also investigated using ab initio calculations. In addition to PAN, calculations on peroxy nitric acid (HOONO(2), PNA) are performed to examine general photochemical properties of the -OONO(2) chromophore. Equation of motion coupled cluster calculations (EOM-CCSD) are used to examine excited state energy gradients for the internal coordinates, oscillator strengths, and transition energies for the n --> pi* transitions responsible for the photolysis of both PNA and PAN. We find in both molecules, photodissociation of both O-O and O-N bonds occurs via excitation to predissociative electronic excited states and subsequent redistribution of that energy as opposed to directly dissociative excitations. Comparison and contrast between experimental and theoretical studies of HOONO(2) and PAN photochemistry from this and other work provide unique insight on the photochemistry of these species in the atmosphere.
Protracted CRP Elevation after Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been linked to an inflammatory process detected through various biomarkers, including C-Reactive Protein (CRP). Early recurrence of AF within the first 3 months after curative AF ablation is not felt to reflect success or failure of the procedure. We hypothesized that this early recurrence is due to an inflammatory response to the ablation itself. We therefore sought to evaluate levels of CRP after AF ablation. Methods: We prospectively enrolled subjects undergoing AF ablation. A control group of patients undergoing ablation for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was also enrolled. Each patient had CRP drawn on the day of the procedure (prior to ablation) and during their first follow-up (median 49 days, interquartile range [IQR] 37–93) and second follow-up (median 147 days, IQR 141–257) clinic visits. Patient interviews were performed and medical histories reviewed for evidence of recurrent AF prior to the first follow-up. Results: CRP levels significantly increased from baseline to first follow-up in the AF ablation group (P = 0.0017). CRP did not significantly change after SVT ablation (P = 0.92). Seventeen (45%) of the AF subjects exhibited recurrence of AF prior to first follow-up. After adjusting for multiple potential confounders, AF ablation patients with recurrent AF prior to their first follow-up had a statistically significant greater odds of having an increase in CRP (OR 21, 95% CI 1.1–417, P = 0.045). Conclusions: AF ablation generates an inflammatory response that persists for several weeks. This inflammation may explain early recurrence of AF after curative ablation.
Prospective Business Teachers in the Classroom.

(1977). Prospective Business Teachers in the Classroom. The Journal of Business Education: Vol. 52, No. 5, pp. 222-224.
Office-based anesthesia: author's response to commentary.

TO THE EDITOR Dr. Halperin's commentary1 on my article2 (“Office-Based Anesthesia: Dispelling Common Myths,” published in the September/October 2008 issue of the Journal ) expands the controversy surrounding anesthesia care for complex surgery in the office setting. The anesthesia technique used at the facility at which I practice developed out of the need to provide adequate anesthesia/sedation for complex, sometimes lengthy, cosmetic surgeries without resorting to conventional general anesthesia. Therefore, we excluded invasive airway devices, paralysis, and vapors or gases. The infusion of propofol-ketamine (PK) to produce deep sedation while maintaining spontaneous ventilation, simple devices to supplement oxygenation, and multiple intercostal nerve blocks (ICNB) to produce truncal anesthesia quickly demonstrated to anesthesiologists and surgeons that these modalities were able to provide anesthesia safely. I was invited by Aesthetic Surgery Journal to submit an article specifically on the topic of PK in aesthetic surgery, which was felt to be of interest …
An investigation of noise spectra from sheathed and unsheathed air-acetylene flames

Abstract Noise power spectra are obtained for both background (-OH band) and analyte (Na) emission signals for two locations in sheathed and unsheathed air-acetylene flames. For locations low in the flame, a flowing gas sheath serves to best minimize flame instability; for positions high in the flame, a quartz sheath proves superior. Although no useful high frequency minima are observed in any noise spectra, the presence of strong fluctuations at discrete low frequencies (around 25 Hz) high in unsheathed and argon-sheathed flames urges the avoidance of these spectral regions whenever possible. Application of these findings to practical flame spectrometric analysis is discussed.
Almotriptan increases sustained pain-free outcomes in acute migraine: Results from three controlled clinical trials

Objective.—Evaluate the effect of almotriptan on sustained pain-free outcome in patients with acute migraine. Methods.—Three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of almotriptan for the treatment of acute migraine were examined. Two trials evaluated almotriptan 6.25 mg and 12.5 mg, and the third evaluated almotriptan 12.5 mg and sumatriptan 100 mg. Patients aged 18 to 65 years were instructed to take 1 dose of study medication at the onset of a moderate-to-severe migraine headache. A second dose was allowed for relapse. Sustained pain-free was defined as a decrease in pain severity from moderate or severe at baseline to no pain at 2 hours postdose and without relapse or the use of escape medication between 2 and 24 hours. Results.—A total of 1791 adult migraine sufferers were studied. The proportion of patients achieving a sustained pain-free state was significantly (P<.05) higher in the almotriptan 6.25-mg (21.7% to 22.5%) and 12.5-mg (24.6% to 27.6%) groups than in the placebo group (7.5% to 12.1%). The proportion of patients achieving a sustained pain-free state was comparable between almotriptan 12.5 mg (24.6%) and sumatriptan 100 mg (28.5%) and significantly (P<.05) greater than with placebo (12.1%). Among patients with severe baseline pain, a sustained pain-free state was achieved in significantly more patients (P<.05) with almotriptan 12.5 mg (17.3% to 20.9%) than with placebo (3.1% to 3.2%). Among those with moderate baseline pain, a sustained pain-free state was achieved in significantly more patients (P<.01) with almotriptan 12.5 mg (31.3% to 32.0%) than with placebo (10.2% to 16.1%). Conclusions.—Almotriptan 12.5 mg is significantly better than placebo and comparable to sumatriptan 100 mg for achieving a sustained pain-free state.
Ultrasound NDE imaging through reverberant layers via subspace analysis and projection

In ultrasonic flaw imaging through reverberant layers, the top layer not only induces strong reverberation clutter but also repeats the flaw echo, giving rise to echo multiples. The reverberation clutter often overwhelms the target echoes, rendering the imaging of material flaws extremely difficult. Furthermore, echo multiples may obscure the identification of actual targets, especially when there are a number of targets in the scene. The reverberation clutter and flaw echo multiples must be suppressed or sufficiently mitigated in order to enable proper flaw imaging. In this paper, a subspace-based approach is utilized to suppress the reverberation clutter, followed by predictive filtering to suppress echo multiples. The clutter, due to its significantly high strength relative to the flaw echoes, is captured in the signal subspace that corresponds to the dominant eigenvalues of the data covariance matrix. It can be suppressed by applying orthogonal clutter subspace projection. Predictive deconvolution method is then used to suppress flaw echo multiples and enhance the visibility of the true flaw echoes in the presence of noise and clutter remnants. The effectiveness of the proposed imaging-through-layer approach is demonstrated via synthesized array data using real measurements of reverberation clutter and flaw echoes.
Dissolution-guided wetting for microarray and microfluidic devices

The trapping of air bubbles presents a substantial impediment for the user in the increasingly widespread use of lab-on-a-chip products having microcavities in the forms of microwells, traps, dead ends and corners. Here we demonstrate a simple, effective, and passive method to eliminate air bubbles by coating hydrophilized microarray and microfluidic devices with a monosaccharide such as D-glucose or D-sorbitol, where the microcavities are filled with a conformal, elliptical, cone-shaped monosaccharide solid. These devices were stored in air for up to 6 months with a complete rewetting of the microcavities by dissolution of the monosaccharide with an aqueous solution.
Obstructive sleep apnea and severe maternal-infant morbidity/mortality in the United States, 1998-2009.

Study objectives A recent trend in increasing rates of severe maternal morbidity and mortality despite quality improvements has been noted. The goal of this study is to estimate the national prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pregnant women and examine associations between OSA and pregnancy-related morbidities, including in-hospital maternal mortality. Design A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis. Setting A nationally representative sample of maternal hospital discharges from 1998-2009. Patients or participants The analytic sample included 55,781,965 pregnancy-related inpatient hospital discharges. Interventions N/A. Measurements and results The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was used to identify hospital stays for women who were pregnant or gave birth. Among these women, we determined length of hospital stay, in-hospital mortality, and used International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes to identify OSA and other outcome measures. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the associations between OSA and each outcome. The overall rate of OSA was 3.0 per 10,000; however, the rate climbed substantially from 0.7 in 1998 to 7.3 in 2009, with an average annual increase of 24%. After controlling for obesity and other potential confounders, OSA was associated with increased odds of pregnancy-related morbidities including preeclampsia (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 2.2-2.9), eclampsia (OR, 5.4; 95% CI, 3.3-8.9), cardiomyopathy (OR, 9.0; 95% CI, 7.5-10.9), and pulmonary embolism (OR, 4.5; 95% CI, 2.3-8.9). Women with OSA experienced a more than fivefold increased odds of in-hospital mortality (95% CI, 2.4-11.5). The adverse effects of OSA on selected outcomes were exacerbated by obesity. Conclusions Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with severe maternal morbidity, cardiovascular morbidity, and in-hospital death. Targeted interventions may improve pregnancy outcomes in this group.
ANALYSIS OF SEGMENTATION ALGORITHMS FOR PAVEMENT DISTRESS IMAGES

Collection and analysis of pavement distress data is an important component of any pavement-management system. Various systems are currently under development that automate this process. They consist of appropriate hardware for the acquisition of pavement distress images and, in some cases, software for the analysis of the collected data. An important step in the automatic interpretation of images is segmentation, the process of extracting the objects of interest (distresses) from the background. We examine algorithms for segmenting pavement images and evaluate their effectiveness in separating the distresses from the background. The methods examined include the Otsu method, Kittler’s method, a modified relaxation method, and a method is based on a threshold estimated by regression analysis. Comparison of the algorithms on a data set of asphalt pavement images indicates that the relaxation and regression thresholding methods consistently outperform the other methods. The regression thresholding method has the potential to become the method of choice due to its computational advantage over the relaxation method.
Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes Simulation of a 2D Circulation Control Wind Tunnel Experiment

Numerical simulations are performed using a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) flow solver for a circulation control airfoil. 2D and 3D simulation results are compared to a circulation control wind tunnel test conducted at the NASA Langley Basic Aerodynamics Research Tunnel (BART). The RANS simulations are compared to a low blowing case with a jet momentum coefficient, C(sub u), of 0:047 and a higher blowing case of 0.115. Three dimensional simulations of the model and tunnel walls show wall effects on the lift and airfoil surface pressures. These wall effects include a 4% decrease of the midspan sectional lift for the C(sub u) 0.115 blowing condition. Simulations comparing the performance of the Spalart Allmaras (SA) and Shear Stress Transport (SST) turbulence models are also made, showing the SST model compares best to the experimental data. A Rotational/Curvature Correction (RCC) to the turbulence model is also evaluated demonstrating an improvement in the CFD predictions.
Linear viscoelasticity of an ultraphosphate glass

Abstract Linear viscoelastic stress relaxation and oscillatory shear experiments were performed on a mixed alkali ultraphosphate of composition 0.2Na2O+0.2Li2O+0.6P2O5 at temperatures in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature, Tg. The stress relaxation data were well described by a stretched exponential function G(t)=G 0 exp [−(t/τ)] β . β decreased with increasing temperature. Oscillatory shear experiments were performed to determine the complex mechanical moduli, G*(ω)=G′(ω)+iG′′(ω), as a function of angular frequency, ω. G′(ω) is the elastic modulus and G′′(ω) is the loss modulus. The breadth of G′′(ω), which is a direct measure of the distribution of relaxation times, increased with increasing temperature in the same temperature range. The temperature dependence of β and of G′′(ω) indicates a failure of thermorheological simplicity in this glass. The shear viscosities of the glass determined from G(t) and the zero shear viscosities determined from G′′(ω) were found to be in agreement.
The Tryptic Peptides and Terminal Sequences of the Protein from the Cowpea Strain of Tobacco Mosaic Virus

The use of ion exchange chromatography, gel filtration, and paper electrophoresis for the separation of the peptides obtained by tryptic digestion of the cowpea strain of tobacco mosaic virus protein is described. The amino acid compositions of the 13 tryptic peptides obtained were determined and accounted for 159 residues compared with the 158 found for type tobacco mosaic virus protein. The only tryptic peptide that cowpea tobacco mosaic virus protein and type tobacco mosaic virus protein have in common is asparaginyl-arginine despite the fact that the former is very similar to type tobacco mosaic virus protein in a number of its properties. The amino terminal sequence was found to be acetyl alanyl-tyrosine and the carboxyl terminal sequence was confirmed as alanine preceded by threonine.
Lamb Receives 2012 Luna B. Leopold Young Scientist Award: Response

It is my pleasure to be a part of the exciting community of Earth and planetary surface processes. In addition to the opportunities to participate in engaging and fundamental science, I enjoy our field because of collaborations with bright and fun people. In my short career I have had the pleasure to work with a number of colleagues, and I share this award with you.
THE AGE OF PEA TISSUE AND OTHER FACTORS INFLUENCING THE RESPIRATORY RESPONSE TO 2,4‐DICHLOROPHENOXYACETIC ACID AND DINITRO COMPOUNDS

IN A PREVIOUS publication the well-known selective action of 2,4-D as a weed-killer was shown to be reflected in its effect on respiration. The oxygen uptake by tissue from peas, for example, was stimulated by lower concentrations and to a greater degree than was that of the cereal grass, oats (Kelly and Avery, 1949). The experiments reported here were designed to give the following information concerning the respiratory response of peas to 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) as determined bv the Warburg respirometer: 1) penetration in relation to extent of freshly cut surface of tissue; 2) effect of age of tissue; 3) influence of starvation of tissue. An additional objective was to determine the extent to which pea tissue respiration is affected by certain other physiologically active compounds, namely dinitro compounds. The literature on the effects of 2,4-D and dinitro compounds on plant respiration has been reviewed previously (Kelly and Avery, 1949). Since then, Mitchell, et al. (1949) have reported 2,4-D in concentrations of 20 mg./I. and higher was inhibitory to the respiration of mature tomato stem tissue. Nance (1949) found that 2,4-D at 5 and 10 mg./I. had little influence on the respiration of wheat roots. Nickell (1949) correlating growth and respiration in Rumex virus tumor tissue grown in vitro found that 2,4-D stimulated and inhibited respiration in the same general range of concentrations that it affects pea tissue. Stenlid's experiments (1949b) show that pH may influence the effective concentration range of 2,4-D; at pH 4.5 the concentrations tested inhibited wheat root respiration, while at neutrality they stimulated it. In concentrations from 20-2000 mg./I. 2,4-D had a stimulating effect on the activity of indoleacetic acid oxidase from pea stems (Goldacre, 1949). The inhibitory effect of 2,4-D (2 mg./I. and above) on lupine root respiration was not reversed when respiratory intermediates were added (West and Henderson, 1950). Bonner's report (1949) that 2,4-dinitrophenol stimulated respiration of Avena segments in concentrations of from 1-5 mg./I. and inhibited' it at 10 mg./1. is of interest in view of the fact that a derivative of the compound, 2,4-dinitro-o-cyclohexylphenol, had previously been found to affect respiration in the same range of concentrations (Kelly and Avery, 1949). Stenlid (1949b) found that at acid pH (4.5) less dinitrophenol was required for stimulatory and inhibitory effects on
Surface analysis by photoionization of sputtered species with intense picosecond laser radiation

Abstract Intense ps laser radiation is used to photoionize sputtered atoms and molecules ∼ 1 mm above solid surfaces by nonresonant multiphoton ionization (NRMPI), followed by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. At intensities ≈ 1 x 1014 W/cm2 even red light at 650 nm can completely photoionize (saturate) elements having a high ionization potential (IP), such as atomic O and Ar, as well as elements of lower ionization potential. The ability to efficiently ionize all these elements translate into uniform and high detection sensitivities, and the ability to quantify elements over a great range of ionization potentials.