cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does SPECT/CT help discriminate between multi-gland and single gland disease cases of primary hyperparathyroidism?

1920 Objectives The surgical approach for patients with multi-gland disease (MGD) differs from that in patients with single gland disease (SGD) in hyperparathyroidism. This study was undertaken to determine the degree to which incorporating SPECT/CT (SCT) aids in discriminating between patients with MGD & SGD. Methods We retrospectively analyzed data of 250 patients who underwent MIBI parathyroid imaging. All patients had surgical & pathology confirmed results. In multiple repeated reading sessions, 2 experienced nuclear medicine physicians independently scored degree of confidence of lesions on a 5-point scale for pinhole early & late 99mTc-MIBI neck & 99mTcO4- thyroid imaging & image subtraction planar images (P), SPECT alone (S), SCT, planar with SPECT (PS), and planar with SCT (PSCT). We compared mean scores for multiple readers and multiple reading sessions, and the mean of all scores (ALL) against patients with MGD. Recognizing that readers assign lower scores for parathyroid MGD than SGD lesions of the same weight (Nuc Med Commun. 2012;33:43-50), we iteratively adjusted criteria for intermediate scores to optimize combined upper & lower thresholds for optimal discrimination of MGD cases. Results Accuracy to discriminate between MGD and SGD patients was significantly enhanced by adding the CT component to SPECT (70% versus 56%, p=0.002), but even higher accuracy was achieved by integrating all readings (84% versus 70%, p=0.002) (see Table). Furthermore, in predicting which patients had MGD or SGD, use of ALL scores yielded the highest degree of agreement (κ = 0.48) with the smallest differences (Δ = 3%) versus surgical findings (see Table). Conclusions While adding CT to SPECT did aid in discriminating between patients with MGD and SGD, the best technique utilized all readings, suggesting that in difficult cases it is advantageous to combine multiple readings from multiple readers to provide the most accurate information to surgeons planning parathyroid therapy.
Metaphor for Teaching: Good Teaching is Like Good Sex

Based on a real teaching experience in the classroom, the author reflects on the dynamics of gender, race/ethnicity, power, and privilege in the context of an undergraduate course in Christian sexual ethics. Through this analysis of pedagogical style and process initiated by a challenging moment at the midpoint of the semester, the author develops ten guiding principles for good teaching, using the metaphor that “good teaching is like good sex,” which emphasize the necessary elements and outcomes of a positive learning environment: intimacy, flexibility, creativity, satisfaction, care and attentiveness, vulnerability, fun and playfulness, reciprocity, full engagement, and risk-taking. This experience provided the foundation for planning and assessment for the author's courses since.
Connecting strength of state-based identity to globalization: Case studies of post-Soviet Estonia and Moldova

This thesis is an exploratory look into the relationship between the strength of statebased identities and globalization. I argue that the differences in the state-based identity of Estonia and Moldova help explain their relative openness towards globalization. State-based identity strength is indicated by three factors: First, common culture – a solid collective memory that ties past, current, and future identity to the state. Second, language – indigenous language reinforces state-based identity, whereas vestiges of empire and a language foisted on the people by outsiders indicates a weaker state-based identity. Thirdly, state policies – education, citizenship requirements, and public holidays are used to illustrate how the state communicates identity to the population and molds loyalty of the collective. I find Estonia has a stronger state-based identity and engages with globalizing influences, whilst the weaker state-based identity of Moldova epitomizes the defensive perception of global influences leading to undermining state-based loyalties, therefore Moldova concentrates on internal issues, and is less engaging with globalization.
Chapter 2 Myotonia Congenita

Abstract Myotonia is a symptom of many different acquired and genetic muscular conditions that impair the relaxation phase of muscular contraction. Myotonia congenita is a specific inherited disorder of muscle membrane hyperexcitability caused by reduced sarcolemmal chloride conductance due to mutations in CLCN1, the gene coding for the main skeletal muscle chloride channel ClC‐1. The disorder may be transmitted as either an autosomal‐dominant or recessive trait with close to 130 currently known mutations. Although this is a rare disorder, elucidation of the pathophysiology underlying myotonia congenita established the importance of sarcolemmal chloride conductance in the control of muscle excitability and demonstrated the first example of human disease associated with the ClC family of chloride transporting proteins.
Green Horizon: The Theory and Prospects of Thomas Lyson’s “Civic Agriculture”

parents cannot exit parenthood (p. 143). Similarly, Americans have increas ingly thought that all religions are acceptable, yet when you pick one, you are supposed to be fully committed to it (until you leave it for another). I, for one, have never thought of the literature on religious pluralism and religious switching in this insightful way. Fischer is somewhat less clear in showing the causes of the growth of vol untarism. While the goal is to show that this is the result of growing material security and comfort, this particular link is often implicit and not explicit. In some chapters, this link is discussed in the final paragraphs, and it is often hard to see how the cause led to the effect. For example, the growth of clubs and associations is well documented, Bu, why economic growth or increased material security would lead people to create clubs remains unclear. With increased material security, why did frontier Americans not take up whittling? That said, perhaps I demand too much in that it is hard to imagine exactly how Fischer would demonstrate this connection with the historical data avail able to him.
Regional Integration and Baltic Trade and Investment Performance

This paper analyzes the role of regional arrangements in trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) performance in the Baltics. While progress with transition is a key determinant of trade and FDI performance, regional arrangements with Western Europe have helped develop trade and transfer of technology, but have not yet led to export-related foreign direct investment toward the European Union. The main reasons for this are policy uncertainties, need for more progress with transition, and restrictions in the trade agreements, especially on the European Union side. Intra-Baltic integration has not yet led to substantial trade and FDI growth between the Baltics.
Geochemical modeling approach to predicting arsenic concentrations in a mine pit lake

Abstract Between 1968 and 1983, the North pit at the Getchell Mine, Humboldt County, NV, filled with water to form a lake. In 1983, water quality data were collected with the following results: As concentrations of 0.29 to 0.59 mg/L, pH of 7.1 to 7.9, SO 4 concentrations of 1490 to 1640 mg/L, and TDS of 2394 to 2500 mg/L. Using geochemical modeling techniques presented here, pit lake waters have been theoretically allowed to react for 8.5 a, the approximate time that the North pit had been completely full by 1983. Modeling results predict pH of 7.9 to 8.2, SO 4 concentrations of 1503 to 1644 mg/L, TDS of 2054 to 2366 mg/L, and As concentrations ranging from 0.57 in the hypolimnion to 96 mg/L in the epilimnion. In the epilimnion, model results do not match observed As concentrations, suggesting that mechanisms, such as precipitation of arsenate salts or adsorption to mineral surfaces, may control As levels in an actual pit lake system. Adsorption to Fe oxyhydroxide surfaces is questioned by the authors because of the low Fe content in the Getchell system, but adsorption to Al(OH) 3 (gibbsite) and clay mineral surfaces may be important in controlling natural As concentrations.
The model underlying the measurement of the impacts of the IIC on the end‐users

This article describes the Task‐Technology Fit model that provided the conceptual basis for the assessment of the impacts of the Integrated Information Center (IIC) on the end-users. The Model The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which the Integrated Information Center ( IIC ) , and the technologies and services which it provided, had a performance impact on faculty and students engaged in academic work. The center of focus is not the technologies, nor the organization, but the tasks of individuals in the target population, and the extent to which the technologies and the IIC supported those individuals at their tasks. The model which guided in this effort is the Technology-to-Performance model ( Goodhue, 1992; Goodhue, 1995; Goodhue & Thompson, 1995 ) , as shown in Figure 1. The Technology-to-Performance Chain incorporates insights from two lines of research: One focuses on predicting the utilization of technologies, and the second focuses on the performance impacts of the fit between task requirements and technology characteristics. By combining these two perspectives, and recognizing that technologies must be utilized and fit the task they support before they can have a performance impact, the Technology-to-Performance Chain creates a more accurate picture of the way in which technologies, user tasks, and utilization combine to create changes in individual performance. This new model is consistent with that proposed by Delone and McLean ( 1992 ) in that both utilization and user attitudes about the technology lead to individual performance impacts. It goes beyond the Delone and McLean model by being more explicit about the links between user attitudes, utilization, and performance, and by including the critical aspect of the technology fit to the task. Figure 1 can best be understood as a formal recognition
Behavioral self-help materials as an adjunct to nicotine gum☆

The present study assessed the incremental effectiveness of behavioral self-help materials specifically written to accompany nicotine gum. Subjects (187 women and 117 men) were randomly assigned either behavioral self-help booklets or a factual information pamphlet. All subjects received prescriptions for Nicorette from study physicians. Contrary to prediction, subjects provided self-help booklets fared no better than did subjects provided comparison pamphlets. Overall abstinence levels were encouraging, however. Nicotine gum users were far more likely than nonusers to maintain abstinence through 6-month follow-up. Perhaps self-help materials could be improved by condensing and simplifying content and by adopting a more attractive multicolored pictorial format.
Taxonomy of selected members of the ascomycete genus Capronia with notes on anamorph-teleomorph connections

The taxonomy of selected species of Cap- ronia is discussed and illustrations are provided for Capronia mansonii, C. moravica and C. pulcherrima. Capronia mansonii, known only from the ex-type strain (CBS 101.67), is distinct from CBS 528.86, a second strain identified as this species. Capronia mo- ravica is shown to be a synonym of C. pilosella. The taxonomic position of the strain identified as C. pi- losella that possesses a Cladosporium-like anamorph is discussed. Anamorphs belonging to the black yeast genera Exophiala, Ramichloridium and Rhinocladiella are associated predominantly with members of the Herpotrichiellaceae. In contrast, species possessing Cladosporium-like asexual states and anamorphs be- longing to the form-genus Phialophora are found in distantly related ascomycete families. These latter an- amorphs are not, therefore, indicative of close, phy- logenetic relationships within the Ascomycotina. Cap- ronia hanliniana is excluded from the Herpotrichiel- laceae, and the combination Venturia hanliniana is proposed.
MODEL-BASED LONG-RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING TOOL FOR NEW JERSEY

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) updates its long-range transportation plan every 5 years. The plan sets forth strategies, provides a framework for directing investment, and identifies financial resources needed to sustain the plan's vision. Setting the direction of a long-range transportation program revolves around forecasting future transportation conditions and managing investments to address future needs. An analysis tool was needed to help assess the impact of growth on the statewide transportation system and predict system performance based on multimodal strategic investments. The development and use of an analysis tool based on a travel demand model to assess congestion and mobility issues in 2025 are described. The analysis tool linked the state's three metropolitan planning organization (MPO) regional travel demand models to perform a statewide assessment. Although the models were run independently, methods were developed to provide a common basis for forecasting future travel...
On the origin and functions of hyphal walls and turgor pressure

The hyphal wall protects the pressurized cell against lysis, physical abrasion, chemical damage, and probably from other microorganisms and predatory invertebrates. Against these assets we can hypothesize costs for a cell that are associated with a wall. For example, phagocytosis is impossible, and the release of secreted molecules is complicated by the diffusional challenge presented by the mesh of microfibrils and interleaving wall polymers. A more controversial idea is that once delimited by a tough integument, growth becomes dependent upon the exertion of internal force to cause wall yielding, and most mycologists have posited turgor pressure as the origin of this force. In relation to growth then, it seems logical to suggest that fungal walls evolved to meet a multitude of needs, and that once a cell became walled, osmosis would automatically generate the turgor it required for growth.
Identification of an 11-kDa FKBP12-rapamycin-binding domain within the 289-kDa FKBP12-rapamycin-associated protein and characterization of a critical serine residue

Complexed with its intracellular receptor, FKBP12, the natural product rapamycin inhibits G1 progression of the cell cycle in a variety of mammalian cell lines and in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisae. Previously, a mammalian protein that directly associates with FKBP12-rapamycin has been identified and its encoding gene has been cloned from both human (designated FRAP) [Brown, E.J., Albers, M.W., Shin, T.B., Ichikawa, K., Keith, C.T., Lane, W.S. & Schreiber, S.L. (1994) Nature (London) 369, 756-758] and rat (designated RAFT) [Sabatini, D.M., Erdjument-Bromage, H., Lui, M., Tempst, P. & Snyder, S.H. (1994) Cell 78, 35-43]. The full-length FRAP is a 289-kDa protein containing a putative phosphatidylinositol kinase domain. Using an in vitro transcription/translation assay method coupled with proteolysis studies, we have identified an 11-kDa FKBP12-rapamycin-binding domain within FRAP. This minimal binding domain lies N-terminal to the kinase domain and spans residues 2025-2114. In addition, we have carried out mutagenesis studies to investigate the role of Ser2035, a potential phosphorylation site for protein kinase C within this domain. We now show that the FRAP Ser2035-->Ala mutant displays similar binding affinity when compared with the wild-type protein, whereas all other mutations at this site, including mimics of phosphoserine, abolish binding, presumably due to either unfavorable steric interactions or induced conformational changes.
Averaging Correlations: Expected Values and Bias in Combined Pearson rs and Fisher's z Transformations

Abstract R. A. Fisher's z (z'; 1958) essentially normalizes the sampling distribution of Pearson r and can thus be used to obtain an average correlation that is less affected by sampling distribution skew, suggesting a less biased statistic. Analytical formulae, however, indicate less expected bias in average r than in average z' back-converted to average rz' . In large part because of this fact, J. E. Hunter and F. L. Schmidt (1990) have argued that average r is preferable to average rz' . In the present study, bias in average r and average rz' was empirically examined. When correlations from a matrix were averaged, the use of z' decreased bias. For independent correlations, contrary to analytical expectations, average rz' was also generally the less biased statistic. It is concluded that (a) average rz' is a less biased estimate of the population correlation than average r and (b) expected values formulae do not adequately predict bias in average rz' when a small number of correlations are averaged.
Unusual features of the neck and middle-piece of snake spermatozoa.

In the course of an investigation on reptilian spermiogenesis, we have observed in the sperm of the king snake, Lampropeltis getulus, and the boa, Constrictor constrictor, a nonmitochondrial component of the middle-piece sheath that has not been reported heretofore. This component consists of conspicuous plaques of dense material interspersed among the mitochondria and spaced at irregular intervals along the length of the middle-piece. The plaques, along with the neck cylinder described earlier by Austin (1), are unique to snake sperm and it will be shown that both have a common origin from the coalescence of material first deposited in dense spherical granules in close topographical relationship to the ends of mitochondria that gather around the distal centriole and base of the tail at a late stage of spermiogenesis. The function of both the plaques and the neck cylinder in mature sperm is not clear, but possible functional implications will be discussed in light of homologies between snake sperm and mammalian sperm.
Swapnaushadhi: the embedded logic of dreams and medical innovation in Bengal.

Numerous medicines in South Asia have their origins in dreams. Deities, saints and other supernatural beings frequently appear in dreams to instruct dreamers about specific remedies, therapeutic techniques, modes of care etc. These therapies challenge available models of historicising dreams. Once we overcome these challenges and unearth the embedded logic of these dreams, we begin to discern in them a dynamic institution that enabled and sustained therapeutic change within a ‘traditional’ medical milieu.
Spiral Morphology of Boron Particles

IN recent work on the ultimate analysis of decaborane1 the permeability of palladium to hydrogen was utilized to separate the elements formed in the pyrolysis of this compound. Decaborane, contained in sealed palladium capsules, was decomposed by heating at 900° C., leaving a solid pyrolysis residue of boron containing approximately 0.5 atom per cent palladium. The residue was in the form of hard, shiny black granules (0.5–1.0 mm.), the X-ray diffraction pattern of which consisted of three diffuse rings.
Vectors of traumatic memories and mass-mediated representations of the ‘last’ Nazi trial of John Demjanjuk

This is an ideological critique of key vectors of memory that could have circulated during the Munich trial of John Demjanjuk. While many members of the mainstream press applauded the efforts of German prosecutors who seemed to be dispensing belated justice to Europe’s ‘second generation,’ the circulation of these select legal vectors left us truncated World War II histories. Moreover, the binary choices that were posed stood in the way of more comprehensive and nuanced studies of Stalinism, Nazi and collaborator culpability.
G350 of Escherichia coli RNase P RNA contributes to Mg2+ binding near the active site of the enzyme

Abstract G350 of Escherichia coli RNase P RNA is a highly conserved residue among all bacteria and lies near the known magnesium binding site for the RNase P ribozyme, helix P4. Mutations at G350 have a dramatic effect on substrate cleavage activity for both RNA alone and holoenzyme; the G350C mutation has the most severe phenotype. The G350C mutation also inhibits growth of cells that express the mutant RNA in vivo under conditions of magnesium starvation. The results suggest that G350 contributes to Mg2+ binding at helix P4 of RNase P RNA.
Dissociation of thermoregulation in cats with cytotoxic pontine lesions.

Abstract Neurons of the pontine tegmentum of the cat were lesioned by microinjection of ibotenic acid into the brainstem. The threshold ambient temperatures for heat-gain (shivering) and for heat-loss (panting) responses, together with brain and skin temperatures, were measured in intact animals and after the neurotoxic lesioning. After the lesioning the shivering threshold was altered but the panting threshold did not change. The results indicate that certain neurons involved in the shivering response reside in the pontine tegmentum. Neurons involved in the panting response, however, may lie outside the lesioned areas.
Formation, migration, and stability of extrasolar planetary systems

This paper presents recent results concerning the planet formation, planet migration, and the long term stability of planetary systems. Most stars are found in binary systems and binary companions can disrupt both planet formation and stability. We first consider the effects of outer binary companions on the late stages of terrestrial planet formation and show how planet formation depends on the binary periastron. We then consider migration mechanisms for giant planets. In this case, planet scattering produces the full range of orbital eccentricities, but is less effective in moving planets inward (decreasing their semi-major axes). Disk torques are effective at moving planets inward, but not at increasing the eccentricities. We explore a scenario in which disk torques act in concert with planet scattering to provide the full range of orbital elements observed in extrasolar planetary systems. Finally, we consider the longer term stability of Earth-like planets in binary systems; we find that nearly 50 percent of binaries allow for Earth-like planets to remain stable over the current (4.6 Gyr) age of our solar system.To search for other articles by the author(s) go to: http://adsabs.harvard.edu/abstract_service.html
Supplier diversity and supply chain management: A strategic approach

Abstract Although purchasing trends are moving toward consolidation, a strong economic argument can be made for supplier diversity. In fact, most Fortune 500 companies currently employ supplier diversity initiatives. If integrated into the overall corporate strategy, supplier diversity can become a source of competitive advantage for corporations. In order for such integration to successfully occur, however, the initiative must have top management commitment, a supportive culture, and the availability of champions to promote the proposal. Minority suppliers, in turn, need to realize that their failure or success in this highly competitive environment depends on their ability to continually develop overall competences, to be learning organizations, and to become increasingly attuned to and adept at building strategic alliances amongst themselves and with their corporate customers. In these respects, they can make use of intermediary organizations (such as local supplier councils) to improve their competences and competitive edge.
BaZrO3Thin Films For Humidity Gas Sensor

Microscale (MEMS) gas sensing devices for power plant and automobile exhaust gas are being developed. Bulk BaZrO3 has been previously found to be sensitive to H2O at high temperatures, but was never studied in a thin film form. This research thrust focuses on undoped BaZrO3 and doped BaZrO3 with Y. Thin films were deposited on oxidized n-type silicon substrates at room temperature from ceramic targets with an Ar sputtering ambient. Various deposition pressures and deposition powers were used for the initial investigation. The structural and electrical properties of the deposited films were characterized to investigate their relationships to the deposition process parameters. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to measure the crystal structure of the deposited films, and in particular was used to determine if any crystallographic texture is present in the films. XRD results indicate the as-deposited films are amorphous before annealing. Films sputtered with and without oxygen in the ambient were compared. The crystal structure and morphology of BaZrO3 and BaZrO3 doped with Y after annealing were also determined. The materials changed from amorphous to crystalline after annealing at temperatures of 800 °C and 1000 °C for 3 hours in forming gas (2% H2 balanced with Ar gas) and oxygen. Temperature was found to dominate over deposition conditions in determining the final film structure. Atomic force microscopy was used to examine the morphology of the thin films. Gas sensor test structures using a Pt thin film metallization for interdigitated electrode structures were fabricated for gas sensing measurements. The experiments with the completed test structures measured the materialsi¦ resistivity as a function of temperature and gas concentration. Both materials decrease in resistance with increasing temperature, which is consistent with ionic conduction. Some experiments tested the gas sensitivity and selectivity of the films to the target gas H2O vapor (humidity) and possible cross sensitive gases H2 and CO2. Both materials need further development to evaluate their suitability for thin film sensors. First, the films were found to be highly resistive, making characterization of the electrical properties very difficult. Second, O2 ambient annealing gas will be applied to compare the crystal structure and morphology of both films with an Ar ambient annealing process.
Sleep and Diabetes

Sleep apnea is clinically recognized as a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by recurrent apnea and/or hypopnea. Its prevalence ranges from 4% to 24%. It has been implicated as an independent risk factor for several conditions such as hypertension, stroke, arrhythmia, and myocardial infarction. Recently data has been emerging which suggests an independent association of obstructive sleep apnea with several components of the metabolic syndrome, particularly insulin resistance and abnormalities in lipid metabolism. We hereby review the salient features of the association between sleep and diabetes.
Computers: Computing at 4 degrees Kelvin: Superconducting technology and unconventional packaging herald an era of ultrafast, ultrareliable computers

The paper discusses the properties, operational requirements and obstacles facing the use of the Josephson junction in large scale technology. Discussion of this superconducting device leads to the realisation that its technological importance will increase greatly because of its amazing switching speed and low power dissipation leading to more efficient and denser packaging.
Characterization of the Factors that Determine the Effect of Sympathetic Stimulation on Heart Rate Variability

Heart rate variability analysis has been used to derive indices of sympathetic tone. As different sympathetic stimuli may give rise to divergent changes in heart rate variability, this study was designed to characterize the factors responsible for these divergent responses. Twelve healthy subjects (7 males, age 24.8 +/- 3.1 years) were evaluated. Five-minute electrocardiographic recordings were obtained at baseline, following upright tilt, and during isoproterenol infusion (25 ng/kg per min) under control conditions and following parasympathetic blockade. Data were acquired during spontaneous respiration and when breathing was timed with a metronome (15 breaths/min). Under control conditions, both upright tilt and isoproterenol infusion resulted in significant decreases in the SD and MSSD from baseline values of 69 +/- 3 ms and 64 +/- 5 ms to 48 +/- 4 ms and 21 +/- 5 ms during tilt and 44 +/- 4 ms and 20 +/- 5 ms during isoproterenol infusion, respectively. LF power also significantly increased from 0.47 +/- 0.17 ln (beats/min)2 at baseline to 1.90 +/- 0.20. In (beats/min)2 and 1.34 +/- 0.18. In (beats/min)2 during tilt and isoproterenol infusion, respectively. No change in HF power was noted. Following parasympathetic blockade, all heart rate variability parameters were significantly decreased. No significant change from baseline in the SD, MSSD, or HF power was noted with either tilt or isoproterenol infusion. The LF power increased only with tilt from a baseline value of -3.17 +/- 0.17 in (beats/min)2 to -0.41 +/- 0.19 in (beats/min)2. Similar changes were noted during spontaneous respiration and metronome breathing. These findings demonstrate that the response of the sinus node to beta-adrenergic stimulation depends on the mode of stimulation. In addition, the associated level of parasympathetic tone affects the observed changes in heart rate variability that are associated with sympathetic stimulation.
Microwave breakdown of antenna radomes at high altitudes

Abstract This paper presents data obtained from experimental measurements of antenna-radome breakdown using pulsed power at X-band frequencies and compares the results with those predicted by analysis. Parameters that were investigated experimentally are: antenna dimensions, radome depth, radome material, pulse width, pulse repetition frequency and pressure. The equivalent diffusion lengths calculated from the measured breakdown data depend on these parameters in a manner which has been incorporated into the theoretical analysis. Furthermore, it has been observed that the antenna breakdown power drops off sharply above a certain critical pulse repetition frequency. This behaviour is attributed to an increasing radome surface charge which is also taken into account in the analysis. The breakdown data have been reduced to generalized radome breakdown curves which permit the breakdown conditions to be determined for a wide range of parameters. The effects of a plasma sheath surrounding the antenna radome are briefly discussed and scaling laws appropriate to antenna-radome breakdown are outlined.
Social Support and Its Relation to Health: A Critical Evaluation

issues and problems related to the view that social support can moderate or reduce the adverse effects of stress on mental and physical health are discussed. Conceptual, methodological, and theoretical shortcomings of this body of research are presented. Research attention is directed toward the interactive process between provider and recipient of social support. Identification of factors involved in the receipt and offering of social support is essential for theory development. Recognition of individual differences in the giving, as well as taking, of social support is needed. The possibility is raised that the persistent belief in the power of social support to reduce stress, despite lack of convincing data, reflects a form of bias due to strong expectancies.
Assessing the impact of drug use on hospital costs

Objective. To assess whether outpatient prescription drug utilization produces offsets in the cost of hospitalization for Medicare beneficiaries. Data Sources/Study Setting. The study analyzed a sample (N=3,101) of community-dwelling fee-for-service U.S. Medicare beneficiaries drawn from the 1999 and 2000 Medicare Current Beneficiary Surveys. Study Design. Using a two-part model specification, we regressed any hospital admission (part 1: probit) and hospital spending by those with one or more admissions (part 2: nonlinear least squares regression) on drug use in a standard model with strong covariate controls and a residual inclusion instrumental variable (IV) model using an exogenous measure of drug coverage as the instrument. Principal Findings. The covariate control model predicted that each additional prescription drug used (mean=30) raised hospital spending by $16 (p<.001). The residual inclusion IV model prediction was that each additional prescription fill reduced hospital spending by $104 (p<.001). Conclusions. The findings indicate that drug use is associated with cost offsets in hospitalization among Medicare beneficiaries, once omitted variable bias is corrected using an IV technique appropriate for nonlinear applications.
Microstructure and properties of a refractory NbCrMo0.5Ta0.5TiZr alloy

Abstract A new refractory alloy, Nb 20 Cr 20 Mo 10 Ta 10 Ti 20 Zr 20 , was produced by vacuum arc melting. To close shrinkage porosity, it was hot isostatically pressed (HIPd) at T = 1723 K and P = 207 MPa for 3 h. In both as-solidified and HIPd conditions, the alloy contained three phases: two body centered cubic (BCC1 and BCC2) and one face centered cubic (FCC). The BCC1 phase was enriched with Nb, Mo and Ta and depleted with Zr and Cr, and its lattice parameter after HIP was a = 324.76 ± 0.16 pm. The BCC2 phase was enriched with Zr and Ti and considerably depleted with Mo, Cr and Ta, and its lattice parameter after HIP was estimated to be a = 341.0 ± 1.0 pm. The FCC phase was highly enriched with Cr and it was identified as a Laves C15 phase, (Zr,Ta)(Cr,Mo,Nb) 2 , with the lattice parameter a = 733.38 ± 0.18 pm. The volume fractions of the BCC1, BCC2 and FCC phases were 67%, 16% and 17%, respectively. The alloy density and Vickers microhardness were ρ = 8.23 ± 0.01 g/cm 3 and H v = 5288 ± 71 MPa. The alloy had compression yield strength of 1595 MPa at 296 K, 983 MPa at 1073 K, 546 MPa at 1273 K and 171 MPa at 1473 K. During deformation at 296 K and 1073 K, the alloy showed a mixture of ductile and brittle fracture after plastic compression strain of ∼5–6%. No macroscopic fracture was observed after 50% compression strain at 1273 K and 1473 K. Phase transformations and particle coarsening considerably accelerated by the plastic deformation occurred in the temperature range of 1073–1473 K.
Combined Buoyancy and Pressure-Driven Flow Through a Shallow, Horizontal, Circular Vent

Combined buoyancy and pressure-driven (i.e., forced) flow through a horizontal vent is considered where the vent-connected spaces are filled with fluids of different density in an unstable configuration (density of the top is larger than that of the bottom). With zero-to-moderate cross-vent pressure difference, Δp, the instability leads to bidirectional exchange flow between the two spaces, e.g., as in the emptying from the bottom of a liquid-filled can with a single vent opening. For relatively large Δp, the flow through the vent is unidirectional, from the high to the low-pressure space, e.g., as is the case when the can has a large enough second vent at the top. Problems of a commonly used unidirectional orifice vent flow model, with Bernoulli's equation and a constant flow coefficient, C D , are discussed. First, the orifice model does not predict bidirectional flows at zero-to-moderate Δp. Also, when Δp exceeds the critical value, Δp FL , which defines the onset of unidirectional or flooding flow, there is a significant dependence of C D on the relative buoyancy of the upper and lower fluids (i.e., C D is not constant). Analysis of relevant boundary value problems and of available experimental data leads to a mathematical vent flow model, which removes the problems of the orifice flow model. The result is a general algorithm to calculate flow through shallow, horizontal, circular vents under high-Grashof-number conditions.
Process and event modelling for conceptual design

Abstractions perform a fundamental role during product design, freeing a problem from reality into a representation more readily represented with engineering principles. Functional modelling provides such a representation for product design where customer needs are translated into a representation of elementary operations defining what a product must do to achieve a desired goal. With solely the generation of a functional model, the designer, however, runs the risk of failing to explicitly capture expected interactions and operations of the product as a whole. To that end, this paper presents a process modelling methodology consisting of model levels for the representation of product-related events and configurations based on current functional modelling techniques. Being based on functional modelling allows process modelling to integrate with functional modelling during conceptual design activities. The levels for the process model then collectively define customer needs related to how a product will be ...
Fast Surface Crystallization of Amorphous Griseofulvin Below T g

To study crystal growth rates of amorphous griseofulvin (GSF) below its glass transition temperature (T g) and the effect of surface crystallization on the overall crystallization kinetics of amorphous GSF. Amorphous GSF was generated by melt quenching. Surface and bulk crystal growth rates were determined using polarized light microscope. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and Raman microscopy were used to identify the polymorph of the crystals. Crystallization kinetics of amorphous GSF powder stored at 40°C (T g−48°C) and room temperature (T g−66°C) was monitored using XRPD. Crystal growth at the surface of amorphous GSF is 10- to 100-fold faster than that in the bulk. The surface crystal growth can be suppressed by an ultrathin gold coating. Below T g, the crystallization of amorphous GSF powder was biphasic with a rapid initial crystallization stage dominated by the surface crystallization and a slow or suspended late stage controlled by the bulk crystallization. GSF exhibits the fastest surface crystallization kinetics among the known amorphous pharmaceutical solids. Well below T g, surface crystallization dominated the overall crystallization kinetics of amorphous GSF powder. Thus, surface crystallization should be distinguished from bulk crystallization in studying, modeling and controlling the crystallization of amorphous solids.
Molecular characterization and testing in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a clinically and biologically heterogeneous group of neoplasms found in both the adult and pediatric populations. Many of the mutations that underlie AML pathogenesis have been elucidated and include both large-scale genomic events such as chromosomal additions, deletions, and translocations, as well as small-scale point mutations in tumorigenic genes. As patient prognosis and therapeutic decisions are largely determined by these genetic events, multifaceted genetic analysis of tissue sample from AML patients is required for proper diagnosis. Thus, an understanding of both the genetic events associated with AML and the testing modalities that assess these aberrations is essential for appropriate sample evaluation. Additionally, recognition of the molecular differences between adult and pediatric AML may provide insights into critical pathways involved in AML pathogenesis.
Maximizing step coverage during blanket tungsten low pressure chemical vapor deposition

Abstract A significant range of step coverages can be realized in the low pressure chemical vapor deposition of blanket tungsten films by either hydrogen reduction or silane reduction of tungsten hexafluoride, at a specified deposition rate. The step coverage realized in a single-wafer reactor (SWR) depends on the operating conditions used, e.g. feed flow rate ratios and reactant conversion level. The pseudosteady state approximation to the diffusion-reaction model is used to select the partial pressure ratios at the wafer surface which lead to a balance between reactant availability and consumption. The complete transient model is then used to demonstrate that the reactant pressure ratio obtained using this “availability analysis” maximizes the step coverage at a specified deposition rate. The reactant pressure ratio at the feature mouth is related to the inlet feed rate ratio and reactor conversion level for an SWR, assuming a well-mixed reactor. Guidelines for SWR operation are given to obtain the maximum step coverage for each system. In well-mixed reactors, the optimum feed ratio is a linear function of conversion, and approaches the stoichiometric ratio as the conversion approaches unity.
Quantum-inspired resonance for associative memory

Abstract A new kind of dynamics for simulations based upon quantum-classical hybrid is discussed. The model is represented by a modified Madelung equation in which the quantum potential is replaced by different, specially chosen potentials. As a result, the dynamics attains both quantum and classical properties: it preserves superposition and entanglement of random solutions, while allowing one to measure its state variables using classical methods. Such an optimal combination of characteristics is a perfect match for quantum-inspired information processing. In this paper, the retrieval of stored items from an exponentially large unsorted database is performed by quantum-inspired resonance using polynomial resources due to quantum-like superposition effect.
Integral correction of end-plate potentials: A useful alternative to peak amplitude correction☆

Abstract Validity of correction of peak amplitudes of end-plate potentials for non-linear summation of unit potentials may be affected by membrane capacitance and asynchrony of action of unit potentials. Compensatory adjustment for the opposing and interacting effects of these factors on the correction is difficult to calculate but may be circumvented by use of an integral correction procedure described here. This procedure involves correction of the voltage of the potential over its entire time course rather than at the peak only.
Molecular design of PhoE porin and its functional consequences

The three-dimensional structure of PhoE porin from Escherichia coli, negatively stained with uranyl acetate, has been determined by electron crystallographic techniques to a resolution of about 18 A. The structure shows that PhoE porin consists of trimeric stain-filled channels as the basic unit. The trimeric channels converge as they transverse the membrane but they do not merge. Our three-dimensional structure of PhoE porin indicates that there is a short, narrower segment of channel, which extends beyond the visible strain-filled portion of the channel. The map of glucose-embedded PhoE porin in projection normal to the membrane has also been determined to a resolution of 6.5 A. The projected map shows trimeric ring-like structures, which are presumably cylindrical domains of beta-sheet. At the 3-fold symmetry axis of the trimer, there is a low density region, which is suggested to be a site of lipopolysaccharide that is required for channel and bacteriophage receptor activities. The structural model of the PhoE monomer consists of a flattened cylinder with a large water-filled vestibule about 35 A long with an elliptically shaped opening that is 27 A along the major axis and 18 A along the minor axis. The vestibule has a narrower extension about 10 A long with an average diameter of about 10 A. The vestibule wall is formed by beta-sheet, which may have a large fraction of the beta-strands oriented normal to membrane. Our structural model provides a clue as to how the surface charges on the outer membrane may regulate the permeation of ionic solutes through the channel.
Kinetics of Infected Cell Appearance as a Determinant of Number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Infectious Units

In order to optimize detection of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1)-infected cells, the temporal appearance of virus antigens in newly infected H9 cell cultures was examined. Analyses were accomplished by indirect immunofluorescence labeling with each of 10 monoclonal antibodies and evaluation by flow cytometry. Of the antibodies examined, those specific for HIV-1 capsid protein p24, matrix protein p17, or their precursor molecule p55 allowed the earliest and most sensitive detection in infected cells fixed to allow detection of intracellular antigen. Discrimination of infected cells from uninfected cells was much less sensitive when three antibodies specific for HIV-1 glycoproteins were used to detect intracellular or cell surface antigen. In several experiments involving the time course of infection, we observed no differences in cell numbers between infected and uninfected H9 cultures initiated at identical cell concentrations. We hypothesized that it might be possible to quantitate infectious HIV-1 virions from the kinetics of infected cell appearance. Straight-line relationships between the log p24-positive cells and the time after infection were observed. These quantitative observations were employed to calculate the number of infectious units originally added to the culture that were capable of infecting H9 cells. The production of infectious virus, but not of cytopathic effects, was required. The results of this novel approach to the titration of infectious HIV-1 particles agreed well with those from median cell culture infective dose determination. This method could be employed with other infectious agents for which detection of cell-associated antigens is possible in cell cultures not destroyed by infection.
The generation of aerosols by accidents which may occur during plant-scale production of micro-organisms

Experiments have been performed to simulate accidents which may occur during large-scale production of micro-organisms. Four types of accident, which were considered to be the most likely to result in the greatest hazard to health, were simulated using a bacterial model. The accidents were all concerned with faults occurring in the operation of the microbial fermenter. Gross contamination of surfaces occurred in all experiments, but only three types of accident produced a measurable aerosol.
Otitis media: an update

Abstract Otitis media is a multifactorial disease involving microbiological agents, environmental risk factors and host characteristics. It is a highly prevalent childhood illness. The clinical presentation is typically not specific in younger children and the diagnosis is based on characteristics of the tympanic membrane, particularly mobility. The mainstay of management continues to be antibiotics, however, bacterial resistance to antimicrobial agents has influenced the pharmacological management of otitis media. Myringotomies and tympanostomy tube placement are indicated for specific cases of otitis media. Modification of environmental risk factors whenever possible is helpful. Further investigation of microbiological, immunological and genetic influences on this common childhood illness may play a role in shaping our management of otitis media in the next decade.