cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular epidemiologic characteristics of rotaviruses from infants and children with diarrhea in Harbin

Objective:To characterize the molecular epidemiology of rotavirus infection and the distribution of G and P serotype of rotavirus in Harbin.Application of rotavirus vaccine in northeast area of China provide epidemiologic background information.Methods:247 stool samples,collect from infants and children less than three years of age hospitalized of Harbin Children Hospital in 2007,were tested for rotavirus antigen by ELISA and G,P serotyping by Nested RT-PCR.Results:141(57.09%) rotavirus-positive samples were dected in 247(man 143,women 104) fecal specimens during the 2007.The positive rate of man is 51.05%(73/143),the positive rate of women is 65.28%(68/104).A peak age distribution of rotavirus diarrhea was 7 to 12 months old (70/141,49.65%).Rotavirus infection peaked in winter month(in January,November,December).Among 70 strains performed with G,P serotypes.Serotype G3 represented 42.86% of the G-typed sample predominating in 70 strains.Serotype G1 was the next most common,representing 27.14% of G-typed samples.3 stains were G4,1 stains was G2,1 stains was G9 and 8 strains were mixed.With P serotypes,16 strains were P[4],49 strains were P[8].21 strains were G3P[8] that the most common combined sterotypes,16 strains were G1P[8] that the next most common combined serotypes.Conclusion:Compared with men,women had a higher positive rate of rotavirus infection in Harbin.A peak age distribution of rotavirus diarrhea was 7 to 12 months old.Rotavirus serotype G3 and combined serotype G3P[8] were prevalent strains during the 2007,in Harbin.
Hyperekplexia, Apneas, Developmental Delay, and Genetic Correlations

Investigators at Swansea University and other centers in the UK, Australia, and Belgium studied the genotype-phenotype correlations in 97 individuals with a clinical diagnosis of hyperekplexia; 61 cases had mutations in GLRA1, 24 cases in SLC6A5 and 12 in GLRB.
Anal cancer – What is the optimum chemoradiotherapy?

Radical concurrent chemoradiotherapy with 5FU and Mitomycin C is the standard-of-care for squamous-cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA). Phase III trials combined radiation doses of 50-60 Gy with concurrent Fluoropyrimidines, Mitomycin C and Cisplatin in various doses and schedules. CRT is highly successful for early T1/T2 cancers, but results in appreciable late morbidities and still fails to control larger and node-positive tumours. Compliance to chemotherapy is important for local control. Modern radiotherapy techniques such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), rotational IMRT, image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) have enabled smaller margins and highly conformal plans, resulting in decreased radiation doses to the organs at risk and ensuring a shorter overall treatment time. These advances offer the potential for integrating higher doses of radiation, escalation of the currently used drugs and the safe use of other more novel agents with acceptable toxicity. In this chapter potential novel approaches are discussed in the context of SCCA.
Optical steering of thermally generated microbubbles in a liquid for targeted metallic nanoparticle delivery

A novel mathematical model is developed to investigate the behavior of thermally generated microbubbles in the presence of optical radiation to understand the mechanism of their steering. Forces acting on a bubble are studied in detail using a general force model. It has been proposed that these microbubbles with agglomerated metallic nanoparticles can be used for targeted drug delivery. The model can be extended to include the steering of bubbles with agglomerated silver or gold nanoparticles on their surface.
Europe's Growth Crisis: When and How Will It End?

This paper analyses Europe's growth problem. Recovery from the recent global financial crisis and ‘great recession’ has been slower than after previous recessions in most advanced countries and areas, especially Europe. But the European growth problem is structural in character and it started much earlier. This paper analyses the structural causes of the European growth problem, evaluates the policies that Europe adopted to overcome it, and concludes that even with the appropriate policies, the prospects for accelerating growth in Europe will be difficult, especially in the context of Brexit and the slowdown of world growth in general.
Carotid Reconstruction With Bovine Carotid Heterograft After En Bloc Resection of Squamous Cell Carcinoma With Direct Internal Carotid Invasion

We report a novel use of Artegraft (North Brunswick, NJ) bovine heterograft for carotid reconstruction after resection of a neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). A 65-year-old man presented with a large left neck SCC encasing and invading the cervical internal carotid artery (ICA). Computed tomography angiography revealed an incomplete Circle of Willis, and no viable vein conduit on duplex mapping. The patient underwent en bloc resection including portion of the cervical ICA followed by reconstruction with Artegraft which was well tolerated. This represents the first case report of tumor invasion of the ICA reconstructed using Artegraft as conduit.
Influenza Evolution: New Insights into an Old Foe

Influenza viruses steadily evolve to escape detection by antibodies, necessitating vaccine updates. A new study uses a massively parallel approach, deep mutational scanning, to catalogue antibody escape mutations. This approach defines potential pathways of viral evolution, beyond those already observed in natural infections, and may help predict its future directions.
P261 On call drama: DR-DQ associations strike back!

A 47-year-old Vietnamese man with prior failed renal allograft is selected for evaluation of a kidney from a deceased African American donor. Flow crossmatch with current and archived patient serum are negative. The antibody screen (SA Luminex assay) reveals Class I and II sensitizations but no DSA. Upon further analysis, however, there is concern for lab error based on well-established DR-DQ associations. The donor’s HLA typing includes DR7, DR8, DQ7, DQ8 – an unexpected pattern. DR7 is typically inherited with either DQ2 or DQ9; DR8 with DQ4, DQ6, or DQ7. Inheritance of both DR7 and DQ8 calls into question the validity of the results. This is particularly concerning given the patient’s very high level of sensitization to DQ2 (MFI 18780). Donor typing is repeated by SSP, confirming the initial rSSO results. Repeat cross match is negative. Transplantation proceeds. This case highlights unexpected HLA associations that can arise due to rare crossover events during meiosis. The probability of inheriting DQ8 along with DR7 is low, based on the close proximity of genes DRB1 and DQB1 within chromosome 6. According to allelefrequencies.net, the frequency of a haplotype containing DR7-DQ8 within an African American population is about 0.22%. We estimate the probability of meiotic crossover between DRB1 and DQB1 as 0.03%. While we do not have parental HLA typing for the deceased donor, he likely inherited DQ8 from a parent carrying DR4. Regardless of the origin of the donor’s DQ8, this case also illustrates the importance of questioning uncommon results, and performing confirmation with alternate testing modalities when such results present themselves.
Stimulation of type I interferon production and increased expression of HLA-DR by human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) following exposure to melphalan (MEL)

656 Administration of cyclophosphamide can augment cell-mediated immunity in experimental animals and humans, but the mechanism is unknown. Consistent with published observations in murine systems, we reported that exposure of human PBL to activated forms of CY - MEL or hydroperoxycyclophosphamide - induced expression of mRNA for type I interferons (Proc. AACR, 2003). Here we demonstrate that the induction of mRNA is followed by the production of alpha interferon protein and then by enhanced expression of HLA-DR. PBL obtained from a normal donor were exposed to various concentrations of MEL for 1 hour, then washed and incubated at 37° in tissue culture medium; then they were analyzed by flow cytometry for intracellular alpha interferon and for surface antigens. Cytoplasmic alpha interferon was detected after 16 hours and the fluorescence intensity was highest in PBL that had been exposed to MEL at concentrations of 0.1-1.0 uM. In contrast, MEL-treated PBL did not exhibit cytoplasmic staining for the cyokines, gamma interferon or interleukin-2. After 48-72 hours incubation of MEL-treated PBL, there was an increase in the percentage expressing HLA-DR: 5-15% in diluent-treated controls versus 25-50% in MEL-treated; the optimal MEL concentration was 1 uM. These PBL were separated into CD3+ and CD3(-) populations using antibody-coated magnetic beads and were analyzed by two-color flow cytometry. In both the CD3+ fraction (T cells) and the CD3(-) fraction (B cells and monocytes) MEL treatment resulted in an increased number of cells expressing HLA-DR: CD3+ fraction: diluent=4%, MEL=25%; CD3(-) fraction: saline=17%, MEL=50%). Moreover, in the MEL-treated CD3+ fraction there was an increase in the percentage of cells (diluent=3%, MEL=13%) expressing CD20, a traditional B-cell marker that is known to be co-expressed by a small subpopulation of T cells. Since the expression of both HLA-DR and CD20 is increased by alpha interferon, it is possible that this cytokine was the mediator of both phenotypic changes. Moreover, it is plausible that these in vitro observations reflect the physiologic effects of melphalan and cyclophosphamide after in vivo administration.
152 Exercise protocol for work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are easily mitigated and prevented by a specific exercise program that targets the various bodily systems involved in the condition. A telemedicine program will be discussed with a discussion of five (out of a sample of 200) cases with work-related musculoskeletal injuries. They were advised to follow a program based on the pathophysiology of these condition, and their symptom complex. A general protocol to target computer-related musculoskeletal symptoms has been developed through the successful treatment of these sufferers. A discussion of the differences in this protocol and the traditional care will follow.
Apoptotic cells at the crossroads of tolerance and immunity.

Clearance of apoptotic cells by phagocytes can result in either anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects or prostimulatory consequences through presentation of cell-associated antigens to T cells. The differences in outcome are due to the conditions under which apoptosis is induced, the type of phagocytic cell, the nature of the receptors involved in apoptotic cell capture, and the milieu in which phagocytosis of apoptotic cells takes place. Preferential ligation of specific receptors on professional antigen-presenting cells dendriticc cells) has been proposed to induce potentially tolerogenic signals. On the other hand, dendritic cells can efficiently process and present antigens from pathogen-infected apoptotic cells to T cells. In this review, we discuss how apoptotic cells manipulate immunity through interactions with dendritic cells.
Audible Independence and Binding

Leddington argues that one hears sound sources directly in hearing their sounds (the Heideggerian view), and that one does not hear sound sources indirectly by or in virtue of hearing their sounds (the Berkeleyan view). He argues that auditory experience presents sounds as bound to their sources (Phenomenological Binding) and thus not as independent from their sources (Phenomenological Independence), and he argues that auditory experience presents sound sources as being available for primitive demonstrative reference (Phenomenological Intimacy). He assumes that hearing is "through and through" a matter of hearing sounds (Sonicism). I argue in reply that Phenomenological Independence, Binding, and Intimacy are compatible. Perceptibly distinct things may appear bound in the manner of parts to a common whole, and perceptual awareness of parts may secure demonstrative reference to a whole. I propose that sounds audibly are constituent parts of events that audibly have sounds, and thus audition makes possible demonstrative reference to audible sound sources. In addition, I argue that this does not require accepting either the Berkeleyan or the Heideggerian view. These do not exhaust the options because Sonicism is not mandatory. It may be that not every episode of hearing a non-sound constitutively involves or depends upon a concurrent episode of hearing a sound. I conclude with a warning about the use of phenomenological claims that concern the apparent relations among objects of auditory awareness to draw a conclusion about the nature of the relationship (priority, dependence) that holds between auditory experiences of those objects.
Measuring trends in optometric practice: a study in Oregon.

BACKGROUND Considerable change has occurred in the United States, over the past several years, broadening the scope of optometry to include the treatment of ocular disease. This change has received a great deal of "press", however little has been done to measure actual trends occurring in the practice of optometry. A study was undertaken in 1991 to establish an accurate profile of optometric practice in the state of Oregon including trends over the past five years and those projected into the next five years. METHODS A sampling of all optometrist (465) in the state was done early in 1991, query being made as to five years back (1986) and five years ahead (1996) relative to various practice characteristics. The return rate was 51%. RESULTS It was found that general examinations, spectacles, and contact lenses are services offered by, essentially, every office. However, there is considerable variation, office-to-office, on all other services. Projections into the next five years forecast increased services in contact lenses, vision therapy, and the management/treatment of ocular disease. As to technology, trends indicate greater use of auto-refractors, auto-keratometers, automated visual fields, and binocular indirect opthalmoscopy. CONCLUSIONS Optometrists in Oregon are optimistic on the projected growth of particular services. While this outlook seems to be based on an existing patient base in most areas of care, it appears to assume that projected treatment privileges will attract a new and expanded base of patients relative to ocular disease.
ANALYSIS OF CROSS-BODY IMPEDANCE AT HOUSEHOLD VOLTAGE LEVELS

ABSTRACT This paper presents an investigation of cross-body impedances involved in electrical burn injuries at household voltage levels. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between cross-body impedance and geometry of contact surface, and to quantify the cross-body impedance as a function of duration of contact. A set of nine circular and elliptical stainless steel electrodes, ranging in area from 0.8 cm2 to 20.0 cm2 and in circumference from 1.6 cm to 28.0 cm, was used in the study. 100 Volts AC (60 Hz) was applied with a constant pressure across the hind quarters of anesthetized hogs, between an electrode and a 40 cm by 60 cm ground plate. Each hog, weighing approximately 70 kg, received 5 to 10 applications with a single electrode. Prior to application, the hind quarters of the subjects were shaved and no conducting medium was applied between the electrode and the skin. The resultant current - time relationships, with a constant applied voltage, are composed of three distinct phases: 1) an initial marked increase, 2) a period of gradually increasing current, and 3) a sharp fall-off in current. The minimum cross-body impedance occurs immediately before the fall-off in current, and delineates the second and third phases. The averge minimum cross-body impedance was 241.5 ohms (S.D. = 10.6) with the smallest electrode and 64.4 ohms (S.D. = 5.8) with the largest electrode. The average duration of current flow, from onset to cessation, was 23.8 seconds (S.D. = 5.6) with the smallest electrode and 308.8 seconds (S.D. = 123.8) with the largest electrode. The average applied energy over the duration of current flow was 761.5 joules (S.D. = 200.4) with the smallest electrode and 40,253.2 joules (S.D. = 15,730.4) with the largest electrode. The average applied power was 40.4 watts (S.D. = 1.7) with the smallest electrode and 131.3 watts (S.D. = 6.2) with the largest electrode. The study produces a qualitative assessment of the relationship between cross-body impedance and geometry of contact surface. An increase in electrode area, while maintaining a constant electrode circumference, resulted in a negligible change in minimum cross-body impedance. However, an increase in electrode circumference, while maintaining a constant electrode area, resulted in a decrease in minimum cross-body impedance. The results indicate that the circumference at the contact surface is more significant than the area of contact in establishing the minimum cross-body impedance. These results are supported by electrode studies in a saline tank, and theoretically in the literature.
A Maximum Entropy Approach for Estimating Nonlinear Dynamic Models

Given the objective of estimating the unknown parameters of a finite (and relatively small) data set, generated by some (possibly nonlinear) dynamic discrete time process, it is common to use a Kalman filter Maximum Likelihood (ML) approach, ML-type estimators or more recently a GMM (Imbens, Spady and Johnson, 1998) or BMOM (Zellner 1997, Tobias and Zellner 1997) estimators. All of the above ML-type methods (except the BMOM) require some distributional assumptions while the moment-type estimators require some data (or assumptions) on the moments of the underlying distribution that generated the data. Recently, Golan, Judge and Miller (1996) and Golan, Judge and Karp (1996) developed a Maximum Entropy (ME) framework for estimating dynamic models without distributional assumptions. In this paper the above ME formulation is extended for estimating nonlinear (chaotic) dynamic models. Under this new formulation, one views the errors as another set of unknown parameters to be estimated. Thus, for any data set, the estimation problem is ill-posed (under-determined) where the number of unknowns is always greater than the number of data points and therefore the ME approach is a natural way to estimate the parameters. After developing the basic primal entropy model, a computationally efficient dual, unconstrained approach is developed. Under this dual method, the optimization is done with respect to the Lagrange multipliers associated with each observation. The dual is also used to contrast this ME approach with the more traditional ML-type estimators. Statistics and inference procedures are developed as well. Monte Carlo and empirical results for estimating the parameters of noisy, chaotic systems are presented as well.
Gravity-Independent Upbeat Nystagmus in Syndrome of Anti-GAD Antibodies.

An autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system, stiff person syndrome, frequently presents with increased titers of 65KD anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) antibodies. The clinical phenomenology of this syndrome includes stiffness, ataxia, vertigo due to horizontal gaze-evoked and downbeat vertical nystagmus, and dysmetria of saccades and reaching movements. Here, we describe a novel phenomenology of syndrome of anti-GAD antibody, non-position-dependent upbeat nystagmus and superimposed horizontal gaze-evoked nystagmus. Lack of gravity dependence of primary position upbeat nystagmus, intense nystagmus on up-gaze, relatively stable gaze on downward orientation, and the exponentially decaying waveform suggests neural integrator dysfunction. The titer of anti-GAD in our patient (30 U/ml) was consistent with a variant called “low-titer anti-GAD syndrome”. In addition of presenting as an unusual manifestation of a rare neurological syndrome, this case presents a neurochemical correlate of upbeat nystagmus in GABA-mediated control system involving horizontal and vertical neural integrators. Furthermore, the variant of “low-titer anti-GAD syndrome” suggests that GABAergic system may be affected at lower level or antibodies, and/or the epitopes of antibody in those with full-blown clinical syndrome, but low titers of anti-GAD may be different.
PlantEAR: Functional Analysis Platform for Plant EAR Motif-Containing Proteins

The Ethylene-responsive element binding factor-associated Amphiphilic Repression (EAR) motifs, which were initially identified in members of the Arabidopsis ethylene response factor (ERF) family, are transcriptional repression motifs in plants and are defined by the consensus sequence patterns of either LxLxL or DLNxxP. EAR motif-containing proteins can function as transcription repressors, thus interacting with co-repressors, such as TOPLESS and AtSAP18, affecting the structure of chromatin by histone modifications and thereby repressing gene transcription. EAR motif-containing proteins are highly conserved across diverse plant species and play important roles in hormone signal transduction, stress responses and development, but they have not been identified in most plants. In this study, we identified 20,542 EAR motif-containing proteins from 71 plant species based on a Hidden Markov Model and orthologous gene search, and then we constructed a functional analysis platform for plant EAR motif-containing proteins (PlantEAR, http://structuralbiology.cau.edu.cn/plantEAR) by integrating a variety of functional annotations and processed data. Several tools were provided as functional support for EAR motif-containing proteins, such as browse, search, co-expression and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis as well as cis-element analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). In addition, basing on the identified EAR motif-containing proteins, we also explored their distribution in various species and found that the numbers of EAR motif-containing proteins showed an increasing trend in evolution from algae to angiosperms.
Are Analysts all Alike? Identifying Earnings Forecasting Ability

Investors and the financial media apparently believe that some Wall Street equity analysts research is superior to others. We examine whether such quality differentials exist, in terms of analysts ability to forecast earnings accurately, and whether these differentials are identifiable on an ex ante basis. The results suggest that there is some persistence in analysts forecast accuracy. In particular, forecast accuracy is associated with analyst experience, breadth of coverage, timeliness, and brokerage firm size. Analysts selected for All-Star status by industry publications also tend to have higher forecast accuracy. However, the differences in forecast accuracy do not produce material differences in the dollar magnitudes of forecast errors.
Student and School-level Predictors of Pharmacy Residency Attainment.

To the Editor: Lyons and colleagues recently evaluated the characteristics that affected the likelihood a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) graduate being accepted into a residency position during 2013 to 2015. Results from the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Graduating Student Survey
A Broadband Spectrum Channelizer with PWM-LO Based Sub-Band Equalization

A spectrum channelizer that employs a frequency-folded analog-to-digital converter (FF-ADC) is described. The design allows for downconversion and channelization of a broadband spectrum into contiguous sub-bands, by using polyphase downconversion, baseband analog-to-digital conversion, and sub-band separation through digital-domain harmonic rejection. The sub-bands are aliased at baseband in the polyphase paths. At baseband, the sub-bands with large signal power can reduce the effective ADC dynamic range available for those with lower power levels. An approach that employs pulse-width-modulated local oscillator (PWM-LO) waveforms in the polyphase paths, for equalizing the sub-bands at baseband, prior to digitization, is proposed to address this issue. The approach makes it possible to vary the spectral response of the FF-ADC with low signal-path complexity.
An ontological framework to improve surveillance of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have been proven to be linked to increased risks of a multitude of negative health outcomes and conditions when children reach adulthood and beyond. To better understand the relationship between ACEs and the associated health outcomes and eventually to pan and implement preventive interventions, access to an integrated coherent actionable data set is crucial. In this paper, we introduce a formal reusable ontological framework to capture the knowledge in the domain of Adverse Childhood Experiences to improve ACEs surveillance and response.
Towards a Framework for Validating Machine Learning Results in Medical Imaging: Opening the black box

In the medical imaging domain, non-linear warping has enabled pixel by pixel mapping of one image dataset to a reference dataset. This co-registration of data allows for robust, pixel-wise, statistical maps to be developed in the domain, leading to new insights regarding disease mechanisms [20]. Deep learning technologies have given way to some impressive discoveries. In some applications, deep learning algorithms have surpassed the abilities of human image readers to classify data. As long as endpoints are clearly defined, and the input data volume is large enough, deep learning networks can often converge and reach prediction, classification, and segmentation with success rates as high or higher than human operators [13]. However, machine learning, and deep learning algorithms are complex and interpretability is not always a straightforward byproduct of the classification performed. Visualization techniques have been developed to add a layer of interpretability. The work presented here compares a simplified machine learning workflow for medical imaging to a statistical map from a previous study to validate that the machine learning model used does indeed focus its attention on known important regions.
98. IMPROVING BRONCHIOLITIS MANAGEMENT WITH A CARE PATH

Background Bronchiolitis is the number one cause of hospitalization in children under 2 years of age. AAP guidelines emphasize that only supportive care is needed for bronchiolitis. Data obtained from our institution showed poor adherence to AAP guidelines. This project was undertaken with the goal of improving compliance with these guidelines. Aim Statement Our aim was to reduce length of stay (LOS) for admitted low risk patients with bronchiolitis, age 1-24 months, from 67 hours to Interventions A care path and respiratory score were adapted for our institution. Every patient admitted for bronchiolitis was assessed and given a score using respiratory rate, auscultation, and use of accessory muscles. All patients was ordered nasal suction, saline and reassessed. Persistently high scores resulted in escalation of care. The respiratory score and order set were built into the EMR. The care path was made hospital policy. Physicians, respiratory and nursing received education. Measures Data from patients age 1-24 months hospitalized with bronchiolitis from Nov - Dec 2017 were obtained. Excluded were those born Results Charts of patients with bronchiolitis from Jan to Dec 2018 were reviewed. Data were collected regarding LOS, PICU use, and use of chest x ray, albuterol, steroids, epinephrine and antibiotics. We saw an increase in cases in Sept-Dec 2018 with no increase in PICU use. Nov and Dec 2018 average LOS was Conclusions and Next Steps Conclusions and Next Steps With additional education and reinforcement, we hope to make the trend toward improved care for bronchiolitis the standard in our institution. Early observations after implementation of the care path indicate a reduced length of stay, but further data points are needed to know if this change will be sustained.
Pediatric tonsillectomy: A short-term and long-term comparison of intracapsular versus extracapsular techniques.

Abstract Objective To review a cohort of over 2500 patients and investigate the short and long-term outcomes of intracapsular as compared to extracapsular tonsillectomy, and show if the complication rates are comparable between methods. Study design A multicenter, retrospective chart review was conducted, evaluating pediatric tonsillectomies performed from 2004 to 2014. The electronic medical record was reviewed through December 2018, providing up to 14 years of follow-up data. Setting Two tertiary care, academic medical centers. Subjects and methods A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenotonsillectomy. A chart review was first performed of patients by a single surgeon (MEG) and then the analysis was repeated using enterprise data warehouse (EDW) to search for complications and interventions using International Classification of Diseases, ninth revision, (ICD-9) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. The second surgeon's patients (JLC) patients were added to increase the cohort. Patients were excluded from the review of long-term outcomes if there was less than two-year follow-up. Short-term outcomes examined included rate of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage and re-presentation for dehydration, while long-term outcomes included rates of peritonsillar abscess and tonsillar regrowth requiring revision tonsillectomy. Results A total of 2508 pediatric patients were identified who had undergone tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy. In 1456 (58.1%) of these patients, the intracapsular technique was used and in 1052 (41.9%) patients, the extracapsular technique was used. The mean documented follow-up time was 8.2 years. Thirty-five patients (1.4%) were identified with post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage, 2 of these patients (5.7%) with primary hemorrhage and 33 patients (94.3%) with secondary hemorrhage. 11 underwent intracapsular tonsillectomy and 24 underwent extracapsular tonsillectomy (p = 0.0042). The rate of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage with intracapsular tonsillectomy was 0.76%, compared to 2.3% in the extracapsular group. Three patients (0.12%) undergoing intracapsular tonsillectomy required revision tonsillectomy; no patients in the extracapsular group required revision surgery. Three patients (0.12%) developed peritonsillar abscess post-operatively, two following intracapsular tonsillectomy and one following extracapsular tonsillectomy. Conclusion This retrospective review comparing the intracapsular and extracapsular techniques for tonsillectomy provides further evidence of the benefits of this technique. It is worthwhile to continue offering intracapsular tonsillectomy to patients and their families during pre-operative discussions.
A Case for Abandoning the Federal Minimum Wage

For the past few years there has been a call to raise the Federal Minimum Wage to $15.00 per hour. The purpose of this article is to remind the reader that a wage earner receives the higher of the Federal, State, City, and in many cases the private sector company’s minimum wage. But more importantly, this article displays in chart form the strong correlation between each state’s cost of living and its minimum wage. Given the strong disparity in the cost of living amongst our 50 states, one can logically conclude that the imposition of a Federal “one-size-fits-all” minimum wage is probably inappropriate and that the minimum wage decision should be disaggregated to the States, Cities and Local Municipalities.
In Vitro Effects of Leaf Extracts from Brassica rapa on the Growth of Two Entomopathogenic Fungi.

This study aimed to determine the inhibitive or stimulatory effects of leaf extracts from two Brassica rapa subspecies on the hyphal growth of two well-known entomopathogenic fungi, Cordyceps fumosorosea and Beauveria bassiana. Extract concentrations of 50, 25, and 10% w/v based on leaf fresh weight were prepared from turnip (B. rapa subspecies rapa) and bok choy (B. rapa subspecies chinensis) leaves. Each concentration was individually incorporated into potato dextrose agar plates for in vitro bioassays. The center of each plate was inoculated with 20 µL of a fungal suspension that was allowed 24 h to soak into the agar before sealing the plates and incubating them at 25 °C under a 14-h photophase. The fungal colony perimeter was marked 5 days after inoculation on two perpendicular lines drawn on the bottom of each plate. Radial colony growth was measured from 4 marks per plate 5, 10, and 15 days later. Radial growth rates for both fungi were 1.3–2.0 and 0.9–1.4 times faster with bok choy and turnip extracts, respectively, at the 25% and 50% concentrations compared to the no-extract control treatment. Therefore, bok choy and turnip leaf extracts can stimulate entomopathogenic fungus growth within 15 days. Biochemical compounds in the extracts include sesquiterpenes, α-copaene, β-selinene, γ-gurjunene, calamenene, cubenene, and α-calacorene.
Atlas of Non-Gynecologic Cytology

1 Thyroid Normal Colloid nodule Cystic changes Hashimoto's/ chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis Reidel's thyroiditis Follicular neoplasm Papillary carcinoma Insular carcinoma Anaplastic carcinoma Metastatic tumors 2 Parathyroid Thyroglossal cyst Branchial cleft cyst Salivary glands 3 Other Head and Neck Lymph nodes Cysts of the jaw Orbital tumors Scalp tumors Tumors of the face 4 Lung Mediastinum Pleural cavity/peritoneal cavity 5 Other Organs Liver Pancreas Cysts Retroperitoneal FNA Adrenal Kidney Bladder Urine Cerebrospinal fluid Gastric FNAs Bone and soft tissue 6 Breast
Recovery of short, complex linear combinations via /spl lscr//sub 1/ minimization

This note provides a condition under which lscr1 minimization (also known as basis pursuit) can recover short linear combinations of complex vectors chosen from fixed, overcomplete collection. This condition has already been established in the real setting by Fuchs, who used convex analysis. The proof given here is more direct
Integrating data quality data into decision-making process: an information visualization approach

Poor data quality (DQ) has been a troubling issue within many organizations. Thus it is important for a decision-maker to be aware of the data quality of the information based on which he/she makes a decision. However, the mental integration of DQ metadata in to a decision process poses a significant cognitive challenge. A decision-maker could be overloaded and may not effectively take advantage of the DQ metadata [2]. This paper thus proposes a visualization approach to reduce the amount of cognitive resource required for such mental integration.
Scaffolding proteins: More than meets the eye

The accepted pathway of MAPK activation is through a three kinase phosphorelay arrangement. However, as [Johnson][1] explains in his Perspective, new work has established an alternative way for a MAPK called p38a to be activated ([ Ge et al .][2]). Apparently, a scaffolding protein called TAB1 that is devoid of any known catalytic activity is able to interact with p38a, inducing its autophosphorylation and consequent activation. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/295/5558/1249 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/295/5558/1291
Optimal Antenna and Signal Codesign for UWB Antenna Link

Low-cost and low-power consumption UWB radios require simple circuitry and efficient use of available resources such as prime power and spectrum. It is shown here that predistortion of the transmitter pulse according to a regularized inversion of the link transfer function is practical and leads to simple circuit implementation. In particular, there is no need for a correlation receiver and only a few bits are needed in the digital circuitry.
Cultural collisions in international joint venture decision making: a social constructionist perspective

Summary form only given. The author has explored the different social constructions associated with production technology among Japanese and American engineers and technical managers in start-up international joint ventures (IJVs) and has examined how these differences affect joint venture decisions. The data used are reports from critical incident interviews conducted in case studies of three Japanese-American manufacturing IJVs between October 1990 and March 1991. Simon (1976) proposes that administrative decision-making is composed of two premises: one based on purpose, the other based on scientific and practical knowledge about the effects of particular decisions, and that the final decision depends upon the relative weight placed on these two premises. In the case of international joint ventures, the present data suggest that the purposive element may not even be clear (or at least not equally clear) to all involved parties, and the practical knowledge about the effects of decisions is obscured when hidden cultural assumptions are at play. Thus differing conceptions of production technology issues may hinder technical and business decision-making in IJVs. >
Role of Adenosine Receptors in Evoking Venous Distension Reflex in Humans

Our prior work has shown that volume infusion (saline or albumin solution) into the veins of an occluded forearm induces venous distension and evokes reflex increases in muscle sympathetic nerve ac...
Altman’s Z-Score Models of Predicting Corporate Distress: Evidence from the Emerging Sri Lankan Stock Market

This study investigates the ability of three versions of Altman’s Z-Score model (Z, Z’, and Z”) of distress prediction developed in the U.S. to predict the corporate distress in the emerging market of Sri Lanka. The results show that these models have a remarkable degree of accuracy in predicting distress using financial ratios computed from financial statements in the year prior to distress. The overall success rate of 81% is observed using the Z”-Score. The out-of-sample evidence provided in this paper means that the Z-Score models seem to have a very good potential in evaluating the risk of corporate distress in smaller emerging markets as well.
Sources of "overadditivity" in prism adaptation.

In two experiments, tests of visual shift (VS), proprioceptive shift (PS), and negative aftereffect (NA)were made following 15-min exposure to 20-D (base-right) displacement. In Experiment 1, subjects engaged in saggital pointing (hand exposure) at single or multiple (three) exposure targets, while in Experiment 2, subjects experienced hand exposure or hallway exploration (hall exposure) factorially combined with single or multiple (three) NA test targets. In both experiments, additivity (VS+PS = NA) appeared for multiple target conditions while single target conditions produced “overadditivity” (VS+ PS >NA). This additivity effect for target conditions did not interact with exposure conditions in Experiment 2, although VS was greater in hall exposure and PS was greater in hand exposure. The presence of additivity with multiple targets was supported by a higher correlation between the NA test and each component test with multiple targets in both experiments. These results are interpreted as indicating two causes of overadditivity: specific motor response learning with single-exposure targets and association of a single NA test target with a cognitive shift in egocentric straight-ahead.
Estrogen tissue effects and adrenergic cardioprotection in hormone replacement therapy

Objective: To study whether the cardioprotective effect of estrogen on norepinephrine (NE) release parallels estrogen’s effects on reproductive tissues and serum hormone levels. Methods: Female F344 rats were ovariectomized (ovarx) or sham-operated at 3 months of age and given vehicle (0.1 mL/kg; 0.9% NaCl with 1% Tween 80). Conjugated equine estrogens (0.6 mg/kg), δ-8,9-dehydroestrone (0.2 mg/kg) or 17 α-dihydroequilenin (3 mg/kg) were added for 90 or 270 days. Estrogen action was evaluated by serum luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations, pituitary and uterine weights (UWs), and vaginal smears. Cardiac synaptosomes (resealed nerve terminals) were prepared from each heart, incubated with [3H]NE, and exposed to 50 mM of K+ to induce NE release. Results: As expected, UWs in sham-operated animals were sevenfold higher, compared with those of ovarx rats. Estrogen therapies increased UWs fourfold in ovarx animals at 90 days; however, after 270 days, the estrogen increased UWs such that they were similar to those of the sham rats. Serum LH levels and UWs paralleled the level of NE release at the synaptosome, because estrogen was able to protect the heart from excess NE better after 270 days than 90 days. Pituitary weights, vaginal smears, and serum LH demonstrated this difference as well. Conclusions: The cardioprotective action of estrogen on NE release seems to parallel its efficacy on reproductive tissue responses. The clinical significance of these findings requires further investigation.
Oblique hyperspectral radiometric phenomenology study

This paper examines several factors and attempts to understand the phenomenology and driving factors associated with exploitation of oblique hyperspectral imagery. The study takes advantage of established physical models such as the radiative transfer code MODTRAN, and simulation codes such as DIRSIG and FASSP (i.e., Forecasting and Analysis of Spectroradiometric System Performance). This paper studies the impact of a variety of parameters related to the oblique imaging problem. Topics include impact of path scatter and variation in upwelled radiance with azimuth view angle (i.e., amount of backscatter) in additional trade studies and material identification. Target detection is performed on DIRSIG 3D scenes where results are in the form of ROC curves. Lastly, required pixel fill factor is analyzed as it relates to sensor elevation angle, slant range, calibration error and object shade.
Differences in response to the aversive properties of ethanol in rats selectively bred for oral ethanol preference

Abstract A conditioned taste aversion (CTA) paradigm was used to determine whether aversion to the pharmacological effects of ethanol, apart from orosensory cues, can contribute to genetic differences in voluntary ethanol consumption. Four doses of ethanol, administered IP, were paired with the consumption of a 0.1% saccharin solution in rats from the alcohol-preferring (P) and alcohol-nonpreferring (NP) lines. Repeated pairings of saccharin and ethanol in a dose of 1.0 g/kg produced stronger and more prolonged aversion to saccharin in NP rats, compared with P rats, at comparable blood ethanol levels. A low dose of ethanol (0.25 g/kg) produced transient conditioned facilitation of saccharin consumption in P rats, but not in NP rats, at comparable blood ethanol levels. The results suggest that rats of the NP line find the postingestional effects of high-dose ethanol more aversive, and low-dose ethanol less reinforcing, than do rats of the P line. Genetic differences in voluntary ethanol consumption may be due, in part, to differences in aversion to the postingestional effects of ethanol.
Reciprocal parabrachial-cortical connections in the rat

The projection from the parabrachial nucleus (PB) to the cerebral cortex in the rat was studied in detail using the autoradiographic method for tracing anterograde axonal transport and the wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase (WGA-HRP) method for both anterograde and retrograde tracing. PB innervates layers I, V and VI of a continuous sheet of cortex extending from the posterior insular cortex caudally, through the dorsal agranular and the granular anterior insular cortex and on rostrally into the lateral prefrontal cortex. Within the prefrontal area, PB fibers innervate primarily layer V of the ventrolateral cortex caudally, but more rostrally the innervated region includes progressively more dorsal portions of the prefrontal area, until by the frontal pole the entire lateral half of the hemisphere is innervated. This projection originates for the most part in a cluster of neurons in the caudal ventral part of the medial PB subdivision, although a few neurons in the adjacent parts of the PB, the Kolliker-Fuse nucleus and the subcoeruleus region also participate. After injection of WGA-HRP into the PB region, retrogradely labeled neurons were found in layer V of the same cortical areas which receive PB inputs. The importance of this monosynaptic reciprocal brainstem-cortical projection as a possible anatomical substrate for the regulation of cortical arousal is discussed.
SOVIET URBAN GEOGRAPHY: A REVIEW OF RECENT INQUIRY

(1992). SOVIET URBAN GEOGRAPHY: A REVIEW OF RECENT INQUIRY. Urban Geography: Vol. 13, No. 1, pp. 87-96.
Evolution of senescence: Natural increase of populations displaying gompertz- or power-law death rates and constant or age-dependent maternity rates

Abstract Several hypothetical populations which differ in degrees of senescence are compared with respect to their rates of natural increase. The rate of natural increase is employed as a measure of selective advantage. The populations are characterized by their maternity and death rates, expressed as functions of age. Maternity rates are described by constant or quasi-human, age-dependent functions. Death rates are described by constant, Gompertzian (exponential) or power functions. Longevity functions, representing the probability of survival to a specific age, are obtained by integrating the death rate functions. The degree of senescence of a population is measured by the rapidity of ascent of its death-rate function or by the rectangularity of its longevity function. The increase in death rate late in life which constitutes senescence is compensated by a decrease in death rate early in life. The balance between the two changes in rate is, by assumption, such that the mean value of the longevity function is independent of the degree of senescence. This assumption makes it possible to separate the effects produced by the evolution of senescence from those caused by changes in longevity. The rate of natural increase is obtained by numerical solution of an integral characteristic equation. The results show that senescence is advantageous in all populations except those in which the maternity function is constant and the size is declining at a rapid rate. When the parameters entering into the longevity functions have values such that the functions approximate human longevity data, the improvement in the rate of natural increase resulting from senescence closely approaches limiting values obtained with the use of a precisely rectangular longevity function. Other results support the observation that reproduction at an early age confers greater selective advantage than equivalent reproduction later in life.
Dose response of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine and methylazoxymethanol acetate in the F 344 rat

Abstract Weanling male and female F 344 rats were given various doses of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) or methylazoxymethyl acetate (MAMAc), and were then held for 46–64 weeks in an effort to determine a dose response and establish a dose level which would produce a low level of intestinal neoplasia with a minimal number of tumors in other organs. DMH proved superior to MAM in this respect, although liver lesions were still observed with both compounds at the lowest carcinogenic intestinal dose.