cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does Surgical Approach Influence the Risk of Postoperative Infection After Surgical Treatment of Tibial Pilon Fractures

OBJECTIVES To determine whether a particular surgical approach or combination of approaches is a risk factor for infection. DESIGN Retrospective review. SETTING Two Level-1 trauma centers. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS Five hundred ninety pilon fractures in 581 patients (66% male) with a median age of 45 years were identified. INTERVENTION Open reduction internal fixation of pilon fractures. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Postoperative deep surgical site infection and risk factors for postoperative deep infection. RESULTS The most common primary surgical approach was medial (54%), followed by anterolateral (25%), anteromedial (11%), posterolateral (8%), and posteromedial (2%). A dual approach to the distal tibia was used in 18% of the cases. The overall deep infection rate was 19%. There was no association between primary surgical approach and development of infection (P = 0.19-0.78). Independent risk factors for infection were smoking (hazard ratio, 2.1; P < 0.001) and need for soft tissue coverage (hazard ratio, 6.9; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Surgical approach does not appear to be a significant risk factor for postoperative infection after open reduction internal fixation of distal tibial pilon fractures. When treating tibial plafond fractures, surgeons should select the approach they feel best addresses the specific fracture pattern. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Glucocorticoid and Estrogen Effects on the Nigrostriatal and Mesolimbic Dopaminergic Systems

Abstract The midbrain dopaminergic systems and their associated pathways are sensitive to circulating adrenal steroids and estrogens. Adrenal steroids exert modulatory effects on striatal neurons, suppressing at least one type of stereotyped behavior and facilitating certain aspects of motor activity in the rat, as well as producing “steroid psychosis” in some human subjects. Adrenal steroid Type II receptors are present in these brain areas, along with some Type I receptors. In rats, adrenalectomy and corticosterone replacement affect neuropeptide gene expression (enkephalin, tachykinin, cholecystokinin), and there are also indications of direct or indirect glucocorticoid effects on D1 and D2 receptor sensitivity and on DA turnover, although there is no information as to mechanisms by which these effects occur. Estradiol also affects the midbrain dopaminergic system, but its actions are complex, both time and dose dependent. Estrogen actions can be very rapid and occur in the absence of detectable intracellular estrogen receptors. Local membrane effects are strongly suggested, with differential actions of estradiol involving subsets of dopaminergic neurons.
Models and Impacts of Science Research Experiences: A Review of the Literature of CUREs, UREs, and TREs.

This is a comprehensive review of 307 papers published between 2007 and 2017 that include course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), undergraduate research experiences (UREs), and tea...
Resource Utilization and Factors Prolonging Hospitalization for Patients with Refractory and Relapsed B-Cell Lymphoma Receiving Axicabtagene Ciloleucel (Axi-cel)

Introduction Use of Axi-cel in patients with refractory and relapsed (R/R) large B-cell lymphoma (BCL) is associated with significant inpatient and outpatient resource utilization, which has not been systematically evaluated. We characterized resources used around Axi-cel infusion and identified factors that lead to longer hospitalization during the first 100 days of therapy. Methods We reviewed medical records of consecutive adult patients with R/R large BCL treated with Axi-cel at our center from May 2018 to June 2019. Resource utilization data were collected across 3 time points and sorted into categories that reflect inpatient and outpatient resources (Table 1). We evaluated the number of "days alive and out-of-hospital through Day 100 from cell infusion" (DAOH100), as a surrogate for institutional resource utilization and to identify factors leading to prolonged hospitalization. Results Axi-cel was used in 27 patients with R/R BCL; 18 were male (67%) with median age 63 years (IQR 48-68), median IPI 2 (IQR 2-3), 20 (74%) had ECOG PS The median length of stay for the initial hospitalization was 13 days (IQR 9-16) and through Day 100 was 16 days (IQR 12-30). Eight (30%) patients required ICU admission for a median of 2.5 days (IQR 1-9.8), while vasopressors, mechanical ventilation and dialysis were used in 6 (22%), 3 (11%) and 2 (7%) patients respectively. Patients had a median of 5 (IQR 3-7) outpatient clinic visits through Day 100. The median number of radiological studies and cardiac/neurological evaluation through Day 100 were 6 (IQR 4-11) and 1 (IQR 0-6) respectively. Pharmaceutical resources are summarized in Table 1. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and CAR-related encephalopathy syndrome (CRES) were seen in 22 (82%) and 20 (74%) patients, with ≥ Grade 2 CRS (Lee, et al) and CRES (CARTOX-10) in 16 (59%) and 13 (48%) patients respectively. By Day 100, 24 (89%) patients were alive and 4 (15%) had disease progression. The median DAOH100 were 84 days (IQR 69-88). DAOH100 were higher in patients with favorable ECOG PS ( Conclusion In this single institutional experience of using Axi-cel therapy for R/R BCL, we demonstrated utilization of substantial resources in terms of hospitalization, ICU stay, diagnostic studies and pharmaceutical products. Patients with favorable PS and no or minimal CRES spend a higher number of days at home (alive and out-of-hospital), in first 100 days of Axi-cel therapy.
Quantitative probing of the fast particle motion during the solidification of battery electrodes

Synchrotron x-ray tomography represents one of the most powerful imaging techniques that can visualize the three-dimensional microstructural complexity with a high spatial resolution. To date, however, the temporal resolution of this technique has been handicapped by the intrinsic limitations in the data acquisition speed and the lack of a suitable data processing method. The present study aims to fundamentally resolve this challenge by implementing a data analysis method that is based on differentiating discrete tomography reconstruction from a continuous scan reconstruction. With this methodological development, we capture and quantify the particle motion during the solidification of battery electrodes and reveal the statistics of the dynamically evolving motion in the drying process, which has been challenging to resolve. We discover that the particle motion exhibits a strong dependence on its geometric location within a drying electrode. Our results also imply that the final electrode quality can be controlled by balancing the solvent evaporation rate and the particle mobility in the region close to the drying surface.
Effects of Chemical and Morphological Structure on Biodegradability of Fibers, Fabrics, and Other Polymeric Materials

The biodegradability of polymers depends on several factors. However, the most critical aspects are the accessibility of the structure for moisture and enzyme diffusion and the capacity of the microbes in the environment to assimilate the final monomers. The accessibility of the polymer structure to enzymes and water depends primarily on crystallinity, hydrophobicity, and the steric effects of the side groups in the polymer backbone. In general, biologically synthesized polymers are readily biodegradable in natural environments but synthetic polymers are either less biodegradable or degrade very slowly. However, such generalizations should be avoided. To understand the compatibility of biomaterials and the environment, both the disintegration step of the biodegradation process and the assimilation and mineralization of these fragments by microorganisms must be investigated. Mineralization occurs when the oligomers and monomers assimilated within the cells are converted to CO2 and H2O (aerobic), and CO2, CH4, and H2O (anaerobic). Although the disintegration of the polymeric structure limits the biodegradation rate and is most easily detected, the final pieces may accumulate in the environment if they are not fully mineralized. Such accumulation could contribute to an issue with microplastics that may be much more difficult to address than the removal of macroscopic, large polymer-based debris.
EEG Color Mapping (Toposcopy)—Advantages and Pitfalls, Clinical and Research Perspectives

ABSTRACT.Many technicians and electroencephalographers (EEGers), particularly those who attend meetings, have been dazzled, perplexed, and possibly excited by the appearance of many new devices displaying the EEG and its processed result in the form of maps that are now rather commonplace at conventions. Since most of these are costly devices (Bickford and Allen 1986) many EEGers will want to know whether they should consider buying one of these instruments, whether they are for research purposes only, or have a useful and cost effective application in a neurologic practice.These are difficult matters to evaluate partly because the attractiveness and utility of a new device is at least partly dependent on the sensibilities and clinical interests of the neurologist. However this article aims at providing some guidelines that can assist you in the choice and application of these devices in your clinical laboratory.
Assessing the evolutionary structure of homeless network: Social media use, keywords, and influential stakeholders

Abstract This study seeks to understand how social media is used over time by a community network associated with the implementation of federal homeless policy in the U.S. In addition, this study explores the structure of the social media network that evolves over time. Drawing on previous social media and network research, longitudinal data from 2009 to 2013 was gathered from the Facebook page of a homeless network in the Dallas Metropolitan Area and the case was analyzed using social network analysis methods. Results indicate that the homeless network tends to use social media to raise awareness of homelessness issues, to market the homeless network, to solicit the help of stakeholders, and engage external stakeholders. In addition, the structure of the social media network tends to evolve into a set of reciprocal interactions among stakeholders.
(Mis)matching in physical attractiveness and women's resistance to mate guarding

Abstract Women (N = 692) in romantic relationships (average duration approximately two years) responded to an online survey. The women self-reported their own as well as their partners' physical attractiveness, revealing significant perceived matching in physical attractiveness, as well as a tendency to rate their partners as more attractive than themselves. The women completed the Resistance to Mate Guarding Scale as well as other measures of relationship attitudes and behaviors. Women who perceived themselves as more attractive than their mates more strongly resisted mate guarding; the strongest relationships were with the subscales of Covert Resistance Behaviors, Resisting Public Displays of Affection, and Avoiding Partner Contact. When women perceived themselves as more attractive than their mates, they also reported less commitment, more flirting with other men, more appealing dating alternatives, and more frequent thoughts about breaking up.
The Composition of the Cosmic Rays: An Update

The relative abundances of elements and/or isotopes in the cosmic radiation are the source of information on both the sites of cosmic ray origin and acceleration and the conditions in the interstellar medium through which the particles travel. Recent (1988–90) measurements and interpretations have provided new information on cosmic ray composition and source abundances. These new results are described and compared to previous work.
The rule of law

Purpose – This paper aims to explore complexities of compliance with international and customary law when faced with terrorist threats. The paper's thesis asserts that terrorism cannot be successfully repelled unless the legitimacy of international and domestic law is adhered to by states out of a sense of reciprocal obligation in accordance with the principle of pacta sunt servanda (pacts shall be respected).Design/methodology/approach – This paper examines US pronouncements in order to assess strategic validity.Findings – While the Middle East, particularly Iraq, has been the focus of the US “War on terrorism,” the paper suggests two questions: what has been the US response to terrorist threats in the Americas? Have US national security priorities post‐9/11 been unnecessarily diverted from the Americas where much needed support is promised but lacking, and instead have resources been concentrated far beyond domestic and international norms?Originality/value – The paper examines the US national security ...
NDE of Cylindrically Symmetric Components with Piezofilm Transducers

The flexible polymer piezofilms such as polyvinylidene fluoride[1] (PVDF) possess distinct advantages as ultrasonic transducers for inspecting cylindrically symmetric components, including rods, pipes, cladding, and tube interfaces. The flexibility and contour conforming nature of the film transducer ensure normal incidence and avoid mode conversion. In this work, PVDF transducers are used in several applications, including the evaluation of interfaces in coaxially extruded Zirconium/Zircaloy-2 tubes, the inspection of the clamping condition of Nitinol coupler and the detection of artificial flaws in Aluminum rods. Detailed description will be given for the valuation of an interface in a Zirconium/Zircaloy tube, on which the same transducer was used both as the transmitter and the receiver. The observed signals were analyzed and reflection coefficient as small as 0.006 was accurately measured. Comparison will be made with the measurement results of conventional transducers.
Distribution and biomarker of carbon-14 labeled fullerene C60 ([14C(U)]C60) in pregnant and lactating rats and their offspring after maternal intravenous exposure

A comprehensive distribution study was conducted in pregnant and lactating rats exposed to a suspension of uniformly carbon-14 labeled C60 ([14C(U)]C60). Rats were administered [14C(U)]C60 (~0.2 mg [14C(U)]C60 kg–1 body weight) or 5% polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-saline vehicle via a single tail vein injection. Pregnant rats were injected on gestation day (GD) 11 (terminated with fetuses after either 24 h or 8 days), GD15 (terminated after 24 h or 4 days), or GD18 (terminated after 24 h). Lactating rats were injected on postnatal day 8 and terminated after 24 h, 3 or 11 days. The distribution of radioactivity in pregnant dams was influenced by both the state of pregnancy and time of termination after exposure. The percentage of recovered radioactivity in pregnant and lactating rats was highest in the liver and lungs. Radioactivity was quantitated in over 20 tissues. Radioactivity was found in the placenta and in fetuses of pregnant dams, and in the milk of lactating rats and in pups. Elimination of radioactivity was < 2% in urine and feces at each time point. Radioactivity remained in blood circulation up to 11 days after [14C(U)]C60 exposure. Biomarkers of inflammation, cardiovascular injury and oxidative stress were measured to study the biological impacts of [14C(U)]C60 exposure. Oxidative stress was elevated in female pups of exposed dams. Metabolomics analysis of urine showed that [14C(U)]C60 exposure to pregnant rats impacted the pathways of vitamin B, regulation of lipid and sugar metabolism and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis. This study demonstrated that [14C(U)]C60 crosses the placenta at all stages of pregnancy examined, and is transferred to pups via milk. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rural Service-Learning on the Blue Bus: A Retrospective in Hopes of Advancing Transformative Civic Engagement in Higher Education

In this essay, I reflect on my experiences first as a college student more than 40 years ago, and then as a college instructor who spent 25 years teaching at an urban 2-year college. From what I learned in both settings, I offer reflections and questions designed to prompt campus discussions that can lead to the flourishing of high-impact service-learning experiences.
An Algebraic Approach to Modeling in Software Engineering

Our work couples the formalism of universal algebras with the engineering techniques of mathematical modeling to develop a new approach to the software engineering process. Our purpose in using this combination is twofold. First, abstract data types and their specification using universal algebras can be considered a common point between the practical requirements of software engineering and the formal specification of software systems[4]. Second, mathematical modeling principles provide us with a means for effectively analyzing real-world systems. We first use modeling techniques to analyze a system and then represent the analysis using universal algebras. The rest of the software engineering process exploits properties of universal algebras that preserve the structure of our original model.
Bovine intestinal calcium-binding proteins: Purification and some properties

Abstract 1. 1. Three separate calcium-binding proteins, all similar to the vitamin D3-dependent calcium-binding protein of the chick, have been isolated in high purity from bovine intestinal mucosa. All three proteins exhibit rapid electrophoretic migration rates on acrylamide gels and possess high affinities for calcium. One protein (major component) is always present in greater amounts than either of the others (termed “minor A component” and “minor B component”). 2. 2. The molecular weight of the major bovine component was found to be about 1.1·104 by calibrated gel filtration column chromatography. 3. 3. The calcium-binding activity of partially purified preparations was not affected by trypsin digestion but was rapidly and completely destroyed by incubation with pronase. Furthermore, moderate heat treatment of the supernatant solution from mucosal homogenates did not appreciably reduce calcium-binding activity of this fraction. 4. 4. An immunoassay system for bovine calcium-binding protein has been developed and shown to be specific for the three bovine components. Using this method, calcium-binding protein has also been detected in the bovine kidney. 5. 5. Preliminary results have indicated that, following prolonged storage, one of the bovine components (major) gives rise to the remaining two (minor A and minor B). This degradation occurs in purified preparations as well as in the crude supernatant solution and may indicate that only one of the components is native to the intestine.
The geomagnetic tail

A review is presented of the plasma sheet and lobe regions of the magnetotail, focusing principally on large-scale processes or microprocesses with some large-scale effects. Consideration is given to quiet and average structures, not necessarily related to activity phases, with quasi-steady convection aspects, and with the characteristics of dynamic phases including acceleration mechanisms and single particle aspects. Attention is given to various activity models, average and quiet time properties, properties and effects of magnetospheric convection, dynamics of the magnetotail, and the near tail, substorm current wedge.
Symbolic signal representation using nonlinear filtering

A symbolic modeling method is developed for images and imagelike signals based on their shape-size structure. A signal is represented as a minimal nonlinear superposition of simpler parts, namely, the symbols, which are translated and scaled shape patterns drawn from a finite collection. To obtain the model parameters, multiscale morphological openings and the related pattern spectrum are used to help decide which shape patterns exist in the signal and at which scales. Then the pattern locations are found via a local search at points of generalized morphological skeletons. This model is useful for signal abstractions and object recognition. >
Prevalence of and risk factors for hypoglycemic symptoms after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

Objective To determine the prevalence of and risk factors for postprandial hypoglycemic symptoms among bariatric surgery patients.
Criminal Justice Officials’ Views of Sex Offenders, Sex Offender Registration, Community Notification, and Residency Restrictions

Despite widespread media attention, research efforts, and political support, there is relatively little known about how individuals who are employed in the criminal justice system perceive the fairness, efficacy, and scope of policies aimed at sex offenders. The present study considers the attitudes and beliefs toward sex offenders and sex offender laws, including registration, community notification, and residency restrictions, held by a diverse sample of criminal justice officials who represent all three major components of the criminal justice system. Findings reveal that variation exists among types of criminal justice officials with respect to their perspectives on sex offenders, and most criminal justice officials endorse the implementation and enforcement of current sex offender laws, despite having doubts about their efficacy.
The ACR/NEMA Standard Data Dictionary: A Radiologist's Perspective

The ACR-NEMA Standard provides mechanisms by which a considerable amount of non-image information can be transmitted along with an image. Much of this information is similar to data currently managed by radiology information systems. However, the Standard does not provide methods by which the accuracy and consistency of these data can be maintained at a level that makes them usable for such important functions as billing or statistical analysis. A strategy by which extended versions of existing radiology information systems can be implemented with an ACR-NEMA-compatible PACS to provide data accuracy and consistency is discussed. The Standard also provides a mechanism to transmit the location and orientation of planar cross-sectional images. This will simplify obtaining measurements such as those necessary for stereotoxic techniques in CT, MRI or PET. However, the mechanism is not adequate to deal with the geometrical complexities of projection images. This creates an awkward situation for localizer images in CT and MRI. Extending the Standard to deal with projection images would not only remove this defect but also encourage the development of new quantitative applications in digital radiography.
Barriers and Facilitators to Public Health Insurance Enrollment in Newly Arrived Immigrant Adolescents and Young Adults in New York State

This study was designed to identify barriers and facilitators to enrollment in public health insurance programs in immigrant adolescents and young adults. Focus groups were held in English, Spanish and Mandarin to assess barriers and facilitators to insurance enrollment. Twenty-nine students participated in the focus groups, 11 Chinese speakers, 13 English speakers and 5 Spanish speakers. They were between the ages of 18 and 24. The major factors affecting failure to enroll were lack of correct information about enrollment process and qualifications, fear of being reported to immigration, and language barriers. In general, newly arrived students had less information and many more questions. Facilitators to enrollment included perceived need for health insurance, requiring help with medical care costs, and assistance with information gathering. To increase enrollment, we suggest school-based approaches to education and enrollment, increased presence of facilitated enrollers, and increased visibility of existing informational outlets.
Impact of multiple biopsy cores on predicting final tumor volume in prostate cancer detected by a single microscopic focus of cancer on biopsy

Abstract Objectives To compare the impact that the number of biopsy cores have on final pathologic findings when minimal disease is detected at biopsy. Discordance has been noted between transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy results and tumor volume even when minimal amounts of tumor are found on biopsy. Methods We identified patients who had undergone radical retropubic prostatectomy for a single microscopic focus of adenocarcinoma from a prospectively maintained surgical database. Patients were stratified into two groups: those with six biopsies or less and those with seven or more. The Gleason score, margin status, presence of extracapsular extension, and percentage of tumor volume were compared. Results A total of 102 patients in our database had a single microscopic focus of adenocarcinoma detected by needle biopsy. Of these patients, 65 underwent six or fewer biopsies and 37 underwent seven or more at transrectal ultrasonography. Of the 37 patients in group 2, 27 (73%) had a final tumor volume of less than 5% compared with 24 (37%) of 65 patients in group 1 ( P = 0.002). Of the group 2 patients, 15 (75%) with Stage T1c had an estimated tumor volume of less than 5% compared with only 11 (34%) in group 1 ( P = 0.01). No statistically significant difference was noted between the two groups for margin status, presence of extracapsular extension, or Gleason score. Conclusions A single microscopic focus of cancer obtained after multiple cores predicts for a significantly lower tumor volume on final pathologic examination across clinical stages. In the context of greater tissue sampling, the minimal disease designation may carry more predictive value and be a useful parameter in stratifying patients with Stage T1c and other good-risk factors with regard to surgical outcome.
The effect of different promoter-sequences on transient expression of gus reporter gene in cultured barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cells

The cauliflower mosaic virus 35S (35S) and the enhanced 35S (E35S) promoters fused with maize alcohol dehydrogenase (Adh1) intron1 or maize shrunken locus (sh1) intronl along with maize Adh1 and rice actin (Act1) promoters fused to their respective first introns were tested for transient expression of the E.coli β-glucuronidase (gus) reporter gene in cultured barley (Hordeum vulgare L) cells. The plasmids, carrying the respective promoterintron combinations to drive the gus fused to nopaline synthase (nos) terminator, were introduced into cultured barley cells using a particle gun. The rice Act1 promoter with its first intron gave the highest expression of all promoter intron combinations studied. This was followed by the E35S promoter and no significant differences were observed between the other two promoters tested. The rice actin promoter is now being used to drive selectable marker genes to obtain stably transformed cereal cells.
Ranking international cooperation and conflict events

A set of psychological laboratory experiments were conducted to refine a scale that could be used to study cognition and decision‐making in international cooperation and conflict events. The COPDAB scale, ranking international conflict and cooperation, was expanded and reanalyzed. The original 15 point scale was augmented to include four actors and three new categories for nuclear conflict. The new 18 point scale was used as a template to generate separate sets of action and message items. These items were administered in alternative orders and ranked by political science graduate students and psychology undergraduates. There were four major sets of findings. 1) Action and message items across all 18 ranks provided separate and similar scaling outcomes. 2) Cooperative items in the bottom 7 ranks continued to be difficult to rank properly. They were given cooperative values, but did not increase monotonically across experimental ranks. 3) Conflictual items in the top 10 ranks increased more regularly acros...
Physical Realizations of n >~ 4 Vector Models

It is pointed out that certain phase transitions which involve a doubling of the unit cell are described by $n$-component vector models with $ng~4$. In particular, it is noted that the structural transition in Nb${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ is described by an $n=4$ component model with some tetragonal anisotropy. The critical behavior of this model is studied to order ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}^{2}$, by the exact renormalization group in $d=4\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\epsilon}$ dimensions. It is found that the critical behavior is determined by a new, tetragonal, fixed point.
Backscattering enhancement of random discrete scatterers

A recent laboratory-controlled optical experiment demonstrates that a sharp peak of small but finite angular width is exhibited in backscattering from a random distribution of discrete scatterers. In this paper the phenomenon is explained by using a second-order multiple-scattering theory of discrete particles. The theory gives an angular width of the order of the attenuation rate divided by the wave number and is in agreement with experimental observations. The relations of the present results to past theories on backscattering enhancements are also discussed.
Different Pathways of Postreceptor Desensitization following Chronic Insulin Treatment and in Cells Overexpressing Constitutively Active Insulin Receptors

Abstract We have reported previously that substitution of the transmembrane domain of the insulin receptor with that of the erbB-2 oncogene (IRerbV→E) results in constitutive activation of the insulin receptor kinase. Compared to NIH3T3 cells overexpressing wild-type insulin receptors (IRwt), cells overexpressing IRerbV→E displayed a decrease in IRS-1 protein content by 55%, but basal tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1 was increased. This resulted in an increased association of IRS-1 with the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, increased phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity in anti-IRS-1 immunoprecipitates, constitutive activation of p70 S6 protein kinase, and an increased association of Grb2 with Shc in the absence of ligand. However, Grb2 association with IRS-1 could not be detected in the basal or insulin-stimulated states, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity could not be stimulated by insulin, epidermal growth factor, or platelet-derived growth factor. In contrast to IRerbV→E, the insulin receptor content and its tyrosine phosphorylation were significantly decreased in IRwt cells chronically stimulated (>24 h) with insulin. With decreased IRS-1 content, tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1 was decreased by over 75%, leading to decreased IRS-1-associated PI 3-kinase and Grb2. In addition, Grb2 association with Shc and activation of MAPK and the p70 S6 kinase were insensitive to insulin stimulation. By contrast, association of Grb2 with Shc and activation of MAPK, but not the p70 S6 kinase, could be stimulated by epidermal growth factor or platelet-derived growth factor. These data suggest that there are multiple levels of postreceptor desensitization to insulin action. These are used somewhat differently in these two different models, probably due in part to the difference in receptor down-regulation.
A simple analytical procedure to replace HPLC for monitoring treatment concentrations of chloramine-T on fish culture facilities

Abstract Concentrations of chloramine-T must be monitored during experimental treatments of fish when studying the effectiveness of the drug for controlling bacterial gill disease. A surrogate analytical method for analysis of chloramine-T to replace the existing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method is described. A surrogate method was needed because the existing HPLC method is expensive, requires a specialist to use, and is not generally available at fish hatcheries. Criteria for selection of a replacement method included ease of use, analysis time, cost, safety, sensitivity, accuracy, and precision. The most promising approach was to use the determination of chlorine concentrations as an indicator of chloramine-T. Of the currently available methods for analysis of chlorine, the DPD (N,N-diethyl-p-phenylenediamine) colorimetric method best fit the established criteria. The surrogate method was evaluated under a variety of water quality conditions. Regression analysis of all DPD colorimetric analyses with the HPLC values produced a linear model (Y=0.9602 X+0.1259) with an r2 value of 0.9960. The average accuracy (percent recovery) of the DPD method relative to the HPLC method for the combined set of water quality data was 101.5%. The surrogate method was also evaluated with chloramine-T solutions that contained various concentrations of fish feed or selected densities of rainbow trout. When samples were analyzed within 2 h, the results of the surrogate method were consistent with those of the HPLC method. When samples with high concentrations of organic material were allowed to age more than 2 h before being analyzed, the DPD method seemed to be susceptible to interference, possibly from the development of other chloramine compounds. However, even after aging samples 6 h, the accuracy of the surrogate DPD method relative to the HPLC method was within the range of 80–120%. Based on the data comparing the two methods, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has concluded that the DPD colorimetric method is appropriate to use to measure chloramine-T in water during pivotal efficacy trials designed to support the approval of chloramine-T for use in fish culture.
Postnatal expression of neurotransmitters, receptors, and cytochrome oxidase in the rat pre-Bötzinger complex

The pre-Botzinger complex (PBC) is postulated as the center of respiratory rhythmogenesis. Previously, we found a reduction or plateau of cytochrome oxidase (CO) activity in the PBC and other respiratory nuclei at postnatal days 3-4, despite a general increase of CO with age, suggesting a period of synaptic readjustment. The present study examined the expression of CO and a number of neurochemicals in the PBC at closer time intervals. At postnatal days 3-4 and, more prominently, at postnatal day 12, expression of CO, glutamate, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 1 was reduced, whereas expression of GABA, GABA(B) receptor, glycine receptor, and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptor subunit 2 was increased. These findings are consistent with our hypothesis that decreased CO activity is associated with an increase in inhibitory drive (mediated by GABA and glycine, their receptors, and possibly blockage of Ca(2+) entry by glutamate receptor subunit 2) and a decrease in excitatory drive (mediated by glutamate and its receptors). Our findings point to two critical periods during postnatal development of the rat when their respiratory system may be more vulnerable to respiratory insults.
Nicotine: linking smoking to abdominal aneurysms.

The link between tobacco use and aneurysms of the abdominal aorta is well established, but the specific mechanisms involved have remained elusive for decades. A new study indicates that nicotine is the major culprit in cigarette smoke and provides a common mechanism of aneurysm formation that may allow the development of drugs to treat this disease, for which currently only surgical treatments exist (pages 902–910).
PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF RECOVERY OF LITHIUM FROM BRINE WITH THE USE OF A SELECTIVE EXTRACTANT

Abstract Lithium requirements for battery and controlled thermonuclear fusion reactor uses in the next few decades may exceed the current availability of the mineral and brine reserves. It is thus prudent to search for new reserves and resources to satisfy these and other lithium applications in the future. It has been reported that the lithium content of smackover oilfield waters ranges in the order of 100–500 mg/l, and thus could represent a substantial reserve. A method is proposed to extract lithium from this source. Experimental evidence in the literature indicates that a specific chelating agent of the diketone type, dipivaloylmethane, has a specific selectivity toward lithium in the presence of other metal ions in aqueous solutions. Based in part on this unique property of dipivaloylmethane, a conceptual design of a full size plant is performed to extract lithium from the smackover brine. The study includes alternate flow sheet development, design information on the major units of the process, energy requirement and an economic analysis of a 10 6 kg Li/yr production facility. The economics of three different process concepts depends on the amount of water evaporated from the initial oilfield feed waters to concentrate the brine. Results as a function of production rates are indicated in a general manner.
Bacteremia Due to Haemophilus Infections: A Retrospective Study with Emphasis on the Elderly

We performed a retrospective study of all patients in a large health maintenance organization in Southern California who were identified as having positive blood cultures for Haemophilus organisms during a 20-month period (September 1990 to May 1992) to assess the incidence, presentation, and predisposing conditions of bacteremia due to these organisms and to examine some of the features of these infections in the elderly. Thirty-eight patients with bacteremia due to haemophilus infections were identified. Ten (26.3%) patients were 65 years of age or older. The incidence of bacteremic haemophilus infections in the elderly group was estimated at 2.7 per 100,000 individuals per year, which was almost three times greater than that for the younger age groups studied. When analyzed statistically, the presenting feature of the infection did not differ among age groups. Six patients died, four of whom were elderly. All six deaths were due to nontypable Haemophilus influenzae strains. Cancer was the only chronic underlying condition frequently found among the elderly patients. Three of 10 elderly patients lived in nursing homes ; all three were infected with nontypable H. influenzae strains, and all three died.
An automated method for the detection of field line resonance frequencies using ground magnetometer techniques

[1] This report describes an automated method developed to quickly and precisely determine field line eigenfrequencies from ground magnetometer data using the statistical properties of cross-phase and power ratio spectra. This new automated method allows for routine monitoring of field line resonant frequencies, and hence plasma mass density of the inner magnetosphere, with better temporal coverage and over longer intervals than previous studies, which were limited simply due to the time-consuming nature of making selections “by hand.” To demonstrate the usefulness of the automated procedure, 2 years of data from a pair of magnetometers in the MEASURE array at L = 1.74 were analyzed, and the annual variation in plasmaspheric density was observed. The equatorial mass density reaches a maximum in the Northern Hemisphere winter, and a minimum in summer, with winter values two to three times higher than in summer. This result confirms previous whistler observational studies and theoretical modeling studies.
Electron-Impact Excitation of Auto-Ionizing Levels in Cesium

Auto-ionizing states in Cs between 12 and 20 eV have been studied by electron impact. The retarding-potential-difference method was used to obtain an electron beam with energy spread of about 0.1 eV. To determine the threshold energies, inelastically scattered electrons were analyzed by the trapped-electron method. We have been able to identify about 20 levels, and the agreement with spectroscopic data is excellent. A peak appearing at 12.80 eV is probably due to the quartet states observed by Feldman and Novick.
Semiempirical electronic-structure calculations of the hydrogen-phosphorus pair in silicon.

We report the results of electronic-structure calculations on the hydrogen-phosphorus pair in silicon using the modified neglect of diatomic differential overlap (MNDO) method with a finite cluster. We find that the stable geometry for the defect has ${\mathit{C}}_{3\mathit{v}}$ point-group symmetry with the hydrogen located at the antibonding position of the silicon, which is, in turn, adjacent to the substitutional phosphorus. This prediction is consistent with a model inferred on the basis of infrared spectroscopy. We also calculate hydrogen vibrational frequencies of 2140 and 630 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, respectively, for the axial and perpendicular motions. These are considerably different than the values of 1555 and 809 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, assigned on the basis of infrared experiments. The physical characteristics of the defect and these differences are discussed.
Visibility and annoyance of LCD defective sub-pixels of different colors for different surrounds and positions

In this study we investigate the visibility and annoyance of simulated defective sub-pixels in a liquid crystal display (LCD). The stimulus was a rectangular image containing one centered object with a gray surround and a single defective pixel. The surround was either uniform gray or a gray-level texture. The target was a simulated discolored pixel with one defective sub-pixel (green, red or blue) and two normally functioning sub-pixels. On each trial, it was presented at a random position. Subjects were asked to indicate if they saw a defective pixel, and if so, where it was located and how annoying it was. For uniform surrounds, our results show that detection probability falls slowly for green, faster for red, and fastest for blue as background luminance increases. When detection probability is plotted against luminance contrast green defective pixels are still most detectable, then red, then blue. Mean annoyance value falls faster than detection probability as background luminance increases, but the trends are the same. A textured surround greatly reduces the detection probability of all defective pixels. Still, green and red are more detectable than blue. With the textured surround the mean annoyance tends to remain high even when detection probability is quite low. For both types of surrounds, probability of detection is least for targets in the bottom region of the image.
Low-temperature dielectric properties of KI:Ag + : Additional evidence for the coexistence of two elastic configurations

The observation of an anomalous temperature dependence in the dielectric constant of KI:${\mathrm{Ag}}^{+}$ at low temperatures supports the hypothesis that two elastic configurations coexist for this defect-lattice system.
Energy-resolved tandem and fourier-transform mass spectrometry

Abstract Both Fourier-transform mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry can be used to obtain the collision-energy dependence of MS/MS spectra- Qualitative agreement between the results of these methods is observed for the fragmentations of ionized propane. 2-pentanone. n-butylbenzene, n-propylbenzene and perfluoropropylene in the 1–50 eV range of collision energies. Both experiments are performed readily and serve as an information-rich means of characterizing particular mass-selected ions. When the results are plotted in the form of breakdown curves, good agreement is observed with available data obtained from photoion-photoelectron coincidence experiments and quasi-equilibrium theory. Agreement is also obtained for experiments in which ion internal energy is specified by selecting the scattering angle associated with collision-induced dissociation. Only for n-butylbenzene, in comparison with photodissociation, and for perfluoropropylene, in comparison with literature data for low-energy electron excitation, are serious discrepancies observed. Incomplete equilibration of excitation energy (non-ergodic behavior) is indicated.
Studies in Neotropical Leptoceridae (Trichoptera), a New Species of Amphoropsyche, with a Redescription of the Immature Stages of A. insularis (Flint)

The male and female of a new species of Amphoropsyche Holzenthal from Bolivia are described and illustrated. The new species is closest to A. quebrada Holzenthal and can be distinguished from it and other members of the genus by the presence of spinelike setae on abdominal segment X, the inferior appendages, and the phallic apparatus of the male genitalia. The larva of A. insularis (Flint) is redescribed and illustrated. It can be separated from other Neotropical leptocerids by the presence of secondary setae on the proand mesonota and two bands of flat, spinelike setae on the anal prolegs. The pupa of A. insularis is described and figured, representing the first description of a pupa of this genus.
Comorbid diabetes and the risk of progressive chronic kidney disease in HIV-infected adults: data from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study.

Introduction Approximately 15% of HIV-infected individuals have comorbid diabetes. Studies suggest that HIV and diabetes have an additive effect on chronic kidney (CKD) progression; however, this observation may be confounded by differences in traditional CKD risk factors.
Application of the Pitzer ion interaction model to isopiestic data for the Fe2(SO4)3-H2SO4-H2O system at 298.15 and 323.15 K

Recent isopiestic studies of the Fe2(SO4)3-H2SO4-H2O system at 298.15 K are represented with an extended version of Pitzer's ion interaction model. The model represents osmotic coefficients for aqueous {(1 - y)Fe2(SO4)3 + yH2SO4} mixtures from 0.45 to 3.0 m at 298.15 K and 0.0435 b $ y b $ 0.9370. In addition, a slightly less accurate representation of a more extended molality range to 5.47 m extends over the same y values, translating to a maximum ionic strength of 45 m. Recent isopiestic data for the system at 323.15 K are represented with the extended Pitzer model over a limited range in molality and solute fraction. These datasets are also represented with the usual "3-parameter" version of Pitzer's model so that it may be incorporated in geochemical modeling software, but is a slightly less accurate representation of thermodynamic properties for this system. Comparisons made between our ion interaction model and available solubility data display partial agreement for rhomboclase and significant discrepancy for ferricopiapite. The comparisons highlight uncertainty remaining for solubility predictions in this system as well as the need for additional solubility measurements for Fe3+-bearing sulfate minerals. The resulting Pitzer ion interaction models provide an important step toward an accurate and comprehensive representation of thermodynamic properties in this geochemically important system. B) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Reduction of populations of caged cabbage loopers by release of irradiated males.

A single relase (9:1 treated vs. untreated) of male Trichoplusia ni (Hubner) that had been irradiated with a substerilizing does of gama irradiation (15 krad) reduced an untreated cage population by 92% within 2 generations, When males were completely sterilized (30 krad) and released in the same manner, the reduction was only 82%. Increased control obtained with substerile makes is attributed to inheritance of sterility by the F1 progency; completely sterile makes can affect only the progency of the parent generation. Release of substerile male moths into a natural population appears to be practical method of insect control.
Bayesian variable assessment

Variable-selection regression methods are oriented towards selecting a single model as the vehicle for further inferences. The appropriate inference about variables not present in the selected model is unclear—the conclusion that they are unimportant and have no effect is unsatisfactory and may be misleading. Also, quite often, there will be a large number of subsets with nearly equal fit as measured by any of a number of regression criteria, making the selection of one subset all the more problematic. We propose that combining information across all models provides useful information that is usually ignored. Additionally, we feel the objective of the statistical analysis should not be to select a subset of variables for inclusion in a model, but to assess the role of each predictor variable in any relationship with the response. The term variable assessment we think is more descriptive of this objective. A single model is not desired necessarily, but an assessment of each variable. We develop a method fo...