cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Beyond the Hyperbolization Theorem

In this section we discuss various conjectures related to Thurston’s Hyperbolization Theorem. Our discussion is far from being comprehensive. We refer the interested reader to Kirby’s list of problems [Kir97] for more details.
The Enhancement of Student's Learning in Both Lower-Division and Upper-Division Classes by a Quiz-Based Approach.

In this study, an investigation into the proper use of weekly quizzes in chemical engineering program has been conducted. The traditional weekly homework assignments were replaced with weekly paper quizzes. Achievement levels of students were compared with those students who learn through traditional homework assignments only. The results show the quiz-based learning approach improves students’ learning in both lower division and upper division classes.
Concentrated emulsions as novel fat replacers in reduced-fat and low-fat Cheddar cheeses. Part 2. Large amplitude oscillatory shear behavior

Abstract Lower-fat cheeses with desirable texture can be difficult to produce. The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of concentrated emulsions as a fat replacer on the viscoelastic properties of reduced-fat (15% fat) and low-fat (6% fat) Cheddar cheeses. Concentrated emulsions were prepared by adding a fish gelatin–gum arabic mixture at pH 5.0 and 3.6 to olive oil at a water:oil ratio of 30:70 (w/w). Cheddar cheeses containing emulsions were made by adding the emulsions to skim milk after adding starter culture and before renneting and subsequent cheesemaking. Two control cheeses at each fat level were produced using either olive oil or cream. Cheeses containing emulsions showed greater nonlinearity under large amplitude oscillatory shear, and smaller critical stress and moduli values compared with controls at all storage timepoints. These results were ascribed to greater casein network discontinuity and more open spaces created by aggregated emulsion droplets.
Reconstruction of total parotidectomy defects with a de-epithelialized submental flap.

Objective Total parotidectomy yields a large surgical defect that leads to both cosmetic and functional deficits which can be addressed with reconstruction. We evaluated the role of a pedicled submental flap for this reconstruction. Methods We reviewed all submental flap reconstructions that were performed for total parotidectomy defects between 2014 and 2016. Data regarding harvest technique, postoperative complications, flap survival, and adjuvant treatment details were recorded. Subjective information regarding retained volume after reconstruction was also obtained. Results During the time period, eight patients were identified and in all cases the patients underwent total parotidectomy with facial nerve sacrifice. All patients were discharged within 2 days of hospitalization with no complications or concerns regarding the viability of the flap. All but one patient had radiation therapy. Results with 9.9- to 37.5-month follow-up (mean 22.0 months) show limited volume loss without major contour defect or ear deformity in the follow-up period. Conclusions Submental flap reconstruction is a feasible and reliable method for total parotidectomy defect. The inclusion of the mylohyoid muscle aids flap reliability and adds bulk. Inclusion of the dermis helps contour the overlying skin. The flap does not add morbidity or increased complexity intraoperatively or postoperatively. Level of evidence 4.
Noncooperative Bargaining Models

Classical game theory makes a fundamental distinction between cooperative and non-cooperative games. This distinction was first proposed by Nash [1950a, 1951], who defined cooperative games as games permitting both communication and enforceable agreements between the players, and defined noncooperative games as games permitting neither communication nor enforceable agreements. Later writers have found these definitions unsatisfactory because any two-way classification based on two different criteria at the same time is always logically problematic since it immediately poses the question, What about objects possessing the first property but lacking the second, and what about objects possessing the second property but lacking the first? [cf. Harsanyi, 1976, 100-105.]
Serial Changes in Right Ventricular Systolic Function Among Rejection-Free Children and Young Adults After Heart Transplantation.

Background Evolution of right ventricular (RV) systolic function after pediatric heart transplantation (HT) has not been well described. Methods We analyzed echocardiograms performed over the first year after HT among children and young adults who remained rejection-free. Ninety-six patients (median age 7.1 [0.1-24.4] years at HT) were included: 22 infants (≤1 year) and 74 noninfants (>1 year). Two-dimensional tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), tissue Doppler-derived tricuspid annular systolic velocity (S'), fractional area change (FAC), myocardial performance index (MPI), and two-dimensional speckle-tracking-derived RV global longitudinal (GLS) and free wall strain (FWS) were assessed. Results All measures of RV function were impaired immediately after HT and significantly improved over the first year: TAPSE z-score (–8.15 ± 1.88 to –3.94 ± 1.65, P Conclusions Although RV systolic function improved over the first year after HT in children and young adults without rejection, measures that assess longitudinal contractility remained abnormal at 1 year post-HT. These findings contribute to our understanding of RV myocardial contractility after HT in children and young adults and improve our ability to assess function quantitatively in this population.
Incorporation of Contingency Tasks in Task Allocation for Multirobot Teams

Complex logistics support missions require the execution of spatially separated information gathering and situational awareness tasks. Mobile robot teams can play an important role in the automated execution of these tasks to reduce mission completion time. Planning strategies for such missions must take into account the formation of effective coalitions among available robots and assignment of tasks to robots with the goal of minimizing the expected mission completion time. The occurrence of unexpected situations that adversely interfere with the execution of the mission may require the execution of contingency tasks so that the originally planned tasks may proceed with minimal disruption. Initially reported potential contingency tasks may not always affect mission tasks due to the uncertainty in the mission environment. When potential contingency tasks are reported, the planner updates its existing plan to minimize the expected mission completion time based on the probability of these contingency tasks impacting the mission, their impact on the mission, and other task characteristics. We describe various heuristic-based strategies to compute task allocations for robots for mission execution. We perform simulation experiments to compare them and analyze the computational performance of the best performing strategy. We show that the proactive approach to contingency task management outperforms both the conservative and reactive approaches. Note to Practitioners —The work reported in this article will be useful for deploying multirobot teams to support complex logistics missions spread over a large area where the robots must be prepared to handle contingencies that can adversely impact the mission. The proposed proactive approach can be used to handle contingencies in information gathering, surveillance, guarding, and situational awareness tasks to support safe and secure transportation of important assets through crowded areas. We use port operation as an illustrative example where unmanned surface and aerial vehicles can be useful in ensuring the safety and security of the ports. This is a computationally challenging problem. This article proposes heuristic algorithms to solve the task allocation problem among many different agents efficiently. The approach presented in this article integrates the available information regarding mission and contingencies, along with the resource constraints to plan the mission execution.
Associations Between the Physical Activity Vital Sign and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in High-Risk Youth and Adolescents.

Background:The physical activity vital sign (PAVS) is a simple, validated tool for assessing physical activity in adults that has not been previously studied in pediatrics.Hypothesis:Reported physi...
Sleep and Pain: the Role of Depression

Good nighttime sleep is essential for maintenance of optimal daytime functioning. When nighttime sleep is disrupted, there are countless associated daytime consequences. One of the more prominent daytime consequences of disrupted sleep is pain. While the association between sleep and pain has received great empirical attention, there is still much unknown. This paper aims to summarize and evaluate the state-of-the-science of the interrelations among sleep, pain, and mood. Cumulative scientific evidence suggests that nighttime sleep is associated with both daytime pain and daytime mood disturbances. A growing body of research indicates that disruptions in mood may be one mechanism through which sleep disruptions are related to daytime pain. The study of common biological substrates may shed additional light on the interrelations among sleep, pain, and mood. Mood represents an important link between sleep and pain. Future investigations would be well suited to appropriately sample a variety of indicators from the domains of sleep, pain, and mood. Studies that test triadic treatments that simultaneously address sleep, pain, and mood are needed.
A 51-Year-Old Woman With Pellets in the Sputum.

Case Presentation A 51-year-old woman with no comorbidities presented with a 3-month history of cough with mucopurulent expectoration and intermittent fever. Over the past 1 month, she complained of streaky hemoptysis and gave history of expectorating "whitish pellets" in the sputum on two occasions. She had developed progressive breathlessness for a week prior to presentation to our hospital. There was no history of chest pain or loss of weight or appetite. She was a nonsmoker and did not consume alcohol. She had received multiple courses of antibiotics at another center with no relief of symptoms.
Deep learning-enabled phenotyping reveals distinct patterns of neurodegeneration induced by aging and cold-shock

Access to quantitative information is crucial to obtain a deeper understanding of biological systems. In addition to being low-throughput, traditional image-based analysis is mostly limited to error-prone qualitative or semi-quantitative assessment of phenotypes, particularly for complex subcellular morphologies. In this work, we apply deep learning to perform quantitative image-based analysis of complex neurodegeneration patterns exhibited by the PVD neuron in C. elegans. We apply a Convolutional Neural Network algorithm (Mask R-CNN) to identify neurodegenerative sub-cellular protrusions that appear after cold-shock or as a result of aging. A multiparametric phenotypic profile captures the unique morphological changes induced by each perturbation. We identify that acute cold-shock-induced neurodegeneration is reversible and depends on rearing temperature, and importantly, that aging and cold-shock induce distinct neuronal beading patterns.
Food as Therapy for Frailty

Frailty in end-stage liver disease is a risk factor for mortality and other serious complications for transplant-waitlist patients. Multiple interventions have been studied to try to mitigate these effects by targeting contributors to frailty, most notably sarcopenia and hepatic encephalopathy. This review provides an evidence-based summary of interventions that have been recommended to prevent or reverse frailty and its contributors. Current nutritional recommendations for frailty in end-stage liver disease focus on mitigating the effects of ammonia toxicity, increased energy expenditure due to shifts in glucose metabolism, and micronutrient deficiency and supplementation. Data regarding targeted nutritional interventions for frailty in cirrhosis are limited. Current evidence supports increasing caloric intake, increasing protein intake, avoiding a fasting state, branched-chain amino acid supplementation, screening for and treating vitamin D deficiency, and to a lesser extent l-carnitine supplementation. Future randomized controlled trials are necessary to validate these interventions as modifiers of frailty.
Entanglement transitions as a probe of quasiparticles and quantum thermalization

The authors find that the entanglement between two subsystems in tripartite quantum states can reveal novel aspects of quantum thermalization. In particular, it can probe the presence or absence of long-lived quasiparticles. Systems without quasiparticles exhibit an ``entanglement transition'' from area to volume law as one tunes the subsystem volume fraction within a single representative state, a feature invisible in conventional schemes based on bipartite entanglement. Such a transition is absent in systems with quasiparticles.
Local Measurement-Based Protection Coordination System for a Standalone DC Microgrid

A reliable protection coordination system between the power electronic converters and solid-state device-based fast protection unit in a standalone dc microgrid supplied by a wave energy converter (WEC) and an energy storage unit is presented. A system model with solid-state circuit breakers is developed in Piecewise Linear Electrical Circuit Simulation (PLECS) to analyze the steady-state operation as well as faulted conditions. The effect of both resistive and constant power loads on a current-limited bus controlling converter behavior during an overload event is analyzed theoretically. Also, the variation in the WEC power output and its effect on bus voltage during overload are investigated. The analysis has led to a novel dual current–voltage feedback-based protection coordination system. The method does not require any communication between the solid-state circuit breakers and converters and eliminates the need for adaptive updating of the overcurrent threshold with varying renewable generation output. Bus capacitor discharge during a short-circuit is analyzed theoretically as well to formulate an instantaneous trip threshold selection utilizing device gate driver functionality. The proposed protection coordination system ensures rapid fault isolation and continued power delivery to the healthy segments. An SiC-based bidirectional, solid-state dc circuit breaker prototype is designed and fabricated, which has been used to implement the proposed protection method with a 380-V dc bus-based system.
"We Made Math!": Black Parents as a Guide for Supporting Black Children's Mathematical Identities

Black parents are often presumed to be uninvolved in their children’s education, especially in mathematics. These stereotypes are arguably sustained by White, middle-class expectations for parent engagement. This qualitative study challenges the dominant narrative by exploring the ways eight Black parents support their elementary-aged children’s mathematical identities. Although many scholars have examined the relationship between mathematics identity and academic outcomes, few have explored the role parents play in this identity development. Drawing on Martin’s (2000) mathematics identity framework and McCarthy Foubert’s (2019) Racial Realist Parent Engagement framework, the author argues that Black parents’ experiential knowledge of race and racism in mathematical spaces positions them to teach their children about the everyday importance and usefulness of mathematics. Using parent interviews and family observations, the author’s findings suggest the parents supported their children’s mathematics identities using four approaches: 1) pragmatic (emphasizing financial literacy and basic life skills), 2) aspirational (promoting math-intensive careers), 3) affirmational (sharing words of encouragement), and 4) race-conscious (applying mathematical concepts to lessons in Black history, culture, and anti-Blackness). Implications for educators are discussed, as parent identity support strategies may be useful for reform-oriented teachers seeking to foster positive mathematical identities in Black children.
The Human Side of (News) Engagement Emotion, Platform and Individual Agency

As news organizations continue to explore the opportunities and challenges presented by engagement with audiences across digital and social media platforms in the creation and sharing of news and i...
Fussiness and New-Onset Diarrhea for 2 Weeks in a 9-week-old Girl.

1. Andrew K. Boulos, MD* 2. Rachel A. Long, DO* 1. *University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Children’s Medical Center, Dallas, TX A 9-week-old girl with a normal perinatal course, who has been otherwise well, presents to the pediatric emergency department (ED) with a 2-week history of fussiness when lying supine. She has 3 days of decreased oral intake and loss of her social smile. She is brought to her pediatrician for inconsolability and new-onset diarrhea. A complete blood cell (CBC) count was performed revealing leukocytosis (white blood cell count, 40,000/uL (40 × 109/L), prompting referral to the ED. In the ED she develops a fever (102°F [38.9°C]). The remainder of her vital signs are as follows: heart rate, 170 beats/min; respiratory rate, 38 breaths/min; blood pressure, 98/62 mm Hg; and oxygen saturation 98% on room air. Her skin is warm and flushed, and she is crying inconsolably, with irritability consistently worsened by abdominal palpation, but no fullness or masses are appreciated. The perianal examination reveals slow leakage of thin, pink-tinged fluid from the anus without perianal fissures. The physical examination findings are otherwise normal. The CBC count is significant for a hemoglobin level of 8.5 g/dL (85 g/L) and a white blood cell count of 27,300/uL (27.3 × 109/L), with 53.4% neutrophils and 30.8% lymphocytes. Her C-reactive protein level and erythrocyte sedimentation rate are 16.6 mg/dL (166 mg/L) and 78 mm/hr, respectively. Fecal occult blood is positive. Initial laboratory evaluation includes a complete metabolic panel; lactate dehydrogenase; uric acid; urinalysis; nasopharyngeal multiplex polymerase chain reaction for respiratory viral pathogens; and cerebrospinal fluid cell count, glucose, protein, and smear, which are normal. A left lateral decubitus abdominal radiograph shows mild right colonic distention with a nonspecific air-fluid level (Fig 1). Abdominal ultrasonography reveals a hypoechoic mass arising in the presacral space (Fig 2). Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with intravenous gadolinium infusion reveals a multilobulated mass with central …
Older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Adults' Experiences With Discrimination and Impacts on Expectations for Long-Term Care: Results of a Survey in the Southern United States.

The number of older adults in the United States is projected to increase in coming years, including the number of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning (LGBTQ+) older adults re...
Magnetic resonance imaging-related programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunt valve setting changes occur often.

Patients with programmable ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt valves undergo multiple skull radiographs to evaluate for setting changes resulting from MRI. Our purpose was to determine the rates of inadvertent, MRI-related, programmable VP shunt valve setting changes. In this retrospective cohort with a study period of January 2015–December 2018, we reviewed the pre- and post-MRI skull radiographs of patients with programmable VP shunts and collected the following data: Demographics, commercial type of the valve used, magnetic field strength of the MRI device used, and whether a setting change occurred. We used the chi-square test to identify variables associated with valve setting change. We identified 210 MRI exposure events in 156 patients, and an MRI-related valve setting change rate of 56.7%. The setting change rate was significantly higher with higher magnetic field strength (p = 0.03), and with Medtronic Strata™ valves compared to Codman Hakim™ valves (p < 0.0001). Inadvertent, MRI-related shunt valve setting changes are frequent with valves that lack a locking mechanism. Therefore, we suggest that when feasible, the clinicians could opt to manually reprogram the valves after the MRI to the preferred setting without the need for pre- and post-MRI radiographs. We believe that this protocol modification could help reduce ionizing radiation exposure and cost. Manufacturers may consider incorporating locking mechanisms into the design of such devices in order to reduce the unintended setting change rates.
Spectral Asymptotics and Lamé Spectrum for Coupled Particles in Periodic Potentials

We make two observations on the motion of coupled particles in a periodic potential. Coupled pendula, or the space-discretized sine-Gordon equation is an example of this problem. Linearized spectrum of the synchronous motion turns out to have a hidden asymptotic periodicity in its dependence on the energy; this is the gist of the first observation. Our second observation is the discovery of a special property of the purely sinusoidal potentials: the linearization around the synchronous solution is equivalent to the classical Lame equation. As a consequence, all but one instability zones of the linearized equation collapse to a point for the one-harmonic potentials. This provides a new example where Lame’s finite zone potential arises in the simplest possible setting.
A synopsis of the South American Weberbauera (Brassicaceae)

twenty-two species are recognized in Weberbauera (Brassicaceae), and a key to distinguish them is given. Weberbauera dillonii, W. scabrifolia, and W. violacea are described and illustrated, and their
Autoimmune Pancreatitis: A Succinct Overview

Autoimmune pancreatitis is a rare type of chronic pancreatitis with characteristic clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic findings. Diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis is often challenging due to its low incidence and nonspecific clinical and radiologic findings. Patients with autoimmune pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer share similar clinical presentations, including obstructive jaundice, abdominal pain and weight loss. Due to these overlapping features, autoimmune pancreatitis patients are often misdiagnosed with pancreatic cancer and undergo unnecessary surgery. International consensus diagnostic criteria for autoimmune pancreatitis lists 5 cardinal features to establish the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis. These features include imaging, serology, other organ involvement, histopathology of the pancreas, and response to steroid therapy. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration is a routine diagnostic tool for pancreatic lesions. It is usually utilized to exclude a malignant process in autoimmune pancreatitis patients, since its role to establish a definitive diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis is often limited. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided-tru-cut biopsy and endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle using a large gauge needle (19 to 22 gauges) have been the preferred methods to obtain tissue samples for histologic evaluation. Lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates, fibrotic stroma, mildly atypical epithelial cells, periphlebitis, and obliterative periphlebitis are the common histologic findings of type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis. Meanwhile, granulocytic pancreatic ductal epithelial damage and ductal obliteration are the histologic characteristics of type 2 autoimmune pancreatitis. Immunohistochemical and molecular studies may be helpful to support the diagnosis of AIP in biopsy materials. Image: Permanent section of the fine needle aspirate showing venulitis.
The Ecology of Social Work Departments: Empirical Findings and Strategy Implications

Despite the fact that social work departments are dependent upon hospitals for resource and support, little research has been conducted to analyze organizational factors that promote or impede their development. The researchers hypothesized that departments are most likely to expand in hospital settings with missions that are supportive of clinical, preventive, and community-oriented services; that stress innovation' and that emphasize hospital-funded services and programs. Futher, it was hypothesized that social work services would be most likely to expand in settings where hospital administrators perceive them to be relevant to practical needs of the institution. Findings from a survey of 50 non-profit hospital in Los Angeles County in 1980 confirm these hypotheses and suggest that social workers need to use knowledge of the organizational context to develop high-level support for their departments.
Uterine pressure-flow relationships during early gestation

Placental and myoendometrial pressure-flow relationships were determined in 17 gravid ewes between 29 and 110 gestational days with the use of radioactive-labeled microsphere injections under flow meter guidance. Myoendometrial relationships were consistently curvilinear with convexity toward the flow axis. From 29 to 40 days, caruncular-cotyledonary relationships were similar to myoendometrial ones. After 50 days, the relationship was slightly but significantly curvilinear with convexity toward the pressure axis. From 42 to 50 days, responses were intermediate. The changes in caruncle-cotyledon vascular reactivity correlated with the onset and maturation of interdigitation of fetal and maternal tissues during definitive placentation. A hypothesis for these changes in vascular reactivity is presented.
Now you see it, now you don't!

NK cells become cytotoxic upon receiving a signal through their activation receptors. The orphan proteins H-60 and Rae1 have now been identified as ligands for the mouse NKG2D activation receptor. Remarkably they are inducible and may be blocked by a viral protein.
Synthesis of an Iron(II) Ethyl Complex Accompanied by Formation of an Unusual Dinitrogen-Ligated Iron(I) Hydride†

The reaction of [(PNP)FeCl]·C7H8 [PNP– = bis(2-(diisopropylphosphanyl)-4-methylphenyl)amido] with 1.0 equiv. of EtMgCl in Et2O under N2 produces the anticipated ethyl complex, [(PNP)FeEt] (1). However, the same reaction carried out using a slight excess of the Grignard, instead results in a mixture of species containing 1, but accompanied with formation of another iron-containing species. This species was identified by single X-ray diffraction studies, and IR spectroscopy to be the heterobimetallic complex, [(THF)2MgCl(μ-(N)-PNP)Fe(μ-H)N2] (2), a rare example of a FeI hydride complex. The formation of compound 2 is proposed to result from single-electron reduction of 1 by excess Grignard.
Do Not Forget Susac Syndrome in Patients with Unexplained Acute Confusion (P6.303)

OBJECTIVE: To report two patients with Susac syndrome presenting with acute confusion and abnormal neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings, both of whom were initially misdiagnosed. BACKGROUND: Susac syndrome is an unusual autoimmune endotheliopathy clinically characterized by the triad of encephalopathy, branch retinal artery occlusions (BRAOs), and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. The classic clinical triad may not be fully developed at initial presentation, even at the time MRI demonstrates characteristic central corpus callosum lesions. DESIGN/METHODS: We describe their clinical course, investigations, management, and follow-up. RESULTS: A 57-year-old woman had acute onset of confusion and was initially thought to have multiple strokes. MRI demonstrated restricted diffusion involving the splenium of the corpus callosum. CSF showed a protein level of 164mg/dl and 8 white blood cells (79% lymphocytes). Audiology showed asymmetric bilateral SNHL. Fluorescein angiography (FA) showed multiple bilateral BRAOs. Patient received corticosteroids and IVIG. At one month follow up, patient’s confusion had resolved. The second patient was a 32-year-old man who had acute onset of confusion. CSF demonstrated 24 white blood cells (87% lymphocytes) and a protein level of 234mg/dl. MRI demonstrated restricted diffusion involving the corpus callosum. Patient was discharged and re-hospitalized twenty days later where he was diagnosed with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Patient presented a third time with vision loss. FA demonstrated bilateral BRAOs. Audiology noted bilateral SNHL. He received IVIG and discharged on a prednisone taper and mycophenolate mofetil. At one month follow-up, patient’s confusion had resolved. CONCLUSIONS: We report two patients evaluated within one month of each other who presented with acute confusion associated with MRI and CSF abnormalities and were eventually diagnosed with Susac syndrome. Susac syndrome remains under-diagnosed and should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with unexplained confusional state associated with CSF pleocytosis/proteinorrachia and MRI callosal abnormalities. Disclosure: Dr. Star has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bruzzone has nothing to disclose. Dr. De Alba has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gill has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schneck has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for eMedicine. Dr. Schneck has received research support from NIH and Lundbeck. Dr. Biller has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases and Frontiers in Neurology.
Clinical utility of guanfacine extended release in the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common psychiatric illness in children and adolescents. Several stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine derivatives, are available to treat ADHD in pediatric patients. Nonstimulant medications are more preferred by some parents, other caregivers, and patients because they lack the abuse potential of stimulant medications. In the US, one available nonstimulant option is guanfacine extended release (XR). As a selective α2A adrenergic receptor, guanfacine acts on the central noradrenergic pathways and cortical noradrenergic targets to improve working memory and attention. The XR formulation of guanfacine, compared with the immediate-release formulation, is more effective for the long-term management of ADHD and is associated with fewer adverse effects. Available data also indicate that guanfacine XR is superior to atomoxetine and is as effective as the nonselective α2 adrenergic receptor agonist, clonidine XR. The most common adverse effects associated with guanfacine XR are somnolence, fatigue, bradycardia, and hypotension. Somnolence is the most often cited reason for discontinuation. Guanfacine XR is also labeled for use as an adjuvant to stimulant treatment for ADHD. A similar profile of adverse effects as reported with monotherapy is reported when guanfacine XR is “added on” to stimulant therapy with somnolence as the most commonly reported adverse event. This review discusses the clinical efficacy and patient preference of guanfacine XR based on available published data on the safety, relative effectiveness, and tolerance of this medication to treat ADHD.
Primary structure of rat plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase isoform 4 and analysis of alternative splicing patterns at splice site A.

Abstract We have determined the primary structure of the rat plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase isoform 4 (PMCA4), and have analysed its mRNA tissue distribution and alternative splicing patterns at splice site A. Rat PMCA4 (rPMCA4) genomic clones were isolated and used to determine the coding sequences and intron/exon organization of the 5'-end of the gene, and the remaining coding sequence was determined from PCR-amplified cDNA fragments. Pairwise comparisons reveal that the amino acid sequence of rPMCA4 has diverged substantially from those of rPMCA isoforms 1, 2 and 3 (73-76% identity) and from that of human PMCA4 (87%). Despite the high degree of sequence divergence between the two species, comparisons of intron and untranslated mRNA sequences with the corresponding human sequences confirm the identity of this rat isoform as PMCA4. Northern blot studies demonstrate that the PMCA4 mRNA is expressed in all rat tissues examined except liver, with the highest levels in uterus and stomach. A combination of PCR analysis of alternative splicing patterns and sequence analysis of the gene demonstrate that a 36 nt exon at site A is included in PMCA4 mRNAs of most tissues but is largely excluded in heart and testis. Alternative splicing of both the 36 nt exon and a previously characterized 175 nt exon at splice site C, each of which can be either included or excluded in a highly tissue-specific manner, leads to the production of four different PMCA4 variants ranging in size from 1157 to 1203 amino acids.
A value-driven approach to health care

Redefining Healthcare: Creating Value-Based Competition on Results, by Michael E. Porter and Elizabeth O. Teisberg. Boston: Harvard Business School Press, 2006. 506 pp., $35.00 cloth.
A Generic Approach to Proofs about Substitution

It is well known that reasoning about substitution is a huge "distraction" that inevitably gets in the way of formalizing interesting properties of languages with variable bindings. Most formalizations have their own separate definitions of terms and substitution, and properties about it. However there is a great deal of uniformity in the way substitution works and the reasons why its properties hold. We expose this uniformity by defining terms, substitution and α-equality generically in Coq by parametrizing them over a Context Free Grammar annotated with Variable binding information (CFGV). We also provide proofs of many properties about the above definitions (enough to formalize the PER semantics of Nuprl in Coq). Unlike many other tools which generate a custom definition of substitution for each input, all instantiations of our term model share the same substitution function. The proofs about this function have been accepted by Coq's typechecker once and for all.
A glossary of plant hair terminology

This is a compilation of English terms having to do with hairs and hairy surfaces of plants. The glossary is divided into two sections. Part I includes terms for types and attributes of individual hair kinds and hair clusters. Part II deals with kinds and characteristics of induments.
Judging books by their (lack of) covers

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into issues encountered in maintaining library technologies and electronic collections on a limited budget and with limited personnel.Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses real world experiences and data to report on collection development decisions as they relate to electronic resources in an era of shrinking budgets and changing user expectations.Findings – On‐demand access to platform‐independent information has altered user expectations and shifted the balance of power from the content providers to the content consumers. Academic libraries have been slow to adapt and are suffering as a consequence.Originality/value – This paper examines the colliding forces of progress and tradition as they relate to the provision of information resources in an academic library environment. The author employs real‐world circulation statistics to make a case for shifting the focus of collection development from printed books to ebooks.
An Ambitious Vision of Professional Development for Teachers

Administrators play a critical role in teachers’ professional development. An ambitious approach focuses on content, process, and context to ensure continuous improvement at the individual, collegi...
Combined therapy with inhaled nitric oxide and intravenous vasodilators during acute and chronic experimental pulmonary hypertension.

Both inhaled nitric oxide (NO) and IV vasodilators decrease pulmonary hypertension, but the effects of combination therapy are unknown.We studied the response to inhaled NO (100 ppm) alone, IV vasodilator alone, and combined therapy during acute (U46619-induced) and chronic (monocrotaline-induced) pulmonary hypertension in the pentobarbital-anesthetized rat. Vasodilator doses were 1.0, 3.2, 10, and 32 [micro sign]g [middle dot] kg-1 [middle dot] min-1 sodium nitroprusside (SNP); 50, 100, 150, 200, and 300 [micro sign]g [middle dot] kg-1 [middle dot] min-1 adenosine; or 25, 50, 150, 200, and 300 ng [middle dot] kg-1 [middle dot] min-1 prostacyclin. In the absence of IV vasodilator therapy, inhaled NO decreased mean pulmonary artery pressure without decreasing mean systemic arterial pressure. In both acute and chronic pulmonary hypertension, the addition of inhaled NO to the largest dose of adenosine or prostacyclin, but not of SNP, decreased pulmonary artery pressure. Because inhaled NO and SNP activate guanylyl cyclase and adenosine and prostacyclin activate adenylyl cyclase, the results suggest that adding inhaled NO to a vasodilator not dependent on guanylyl cyclase may produce additional selective pulmonary vasodilation. Implications: In therapy of pulmonary hypertension, inhaled nitric oxide should produce additional selective pulmonary vasodilation when combined with a vasodilator whose mechanism of action is not dependent on cyclic guanosine 3[prime],5[prime]-monophosphate. (Anesth Analg 1999;89:152-8)
Directed evolution of recombinase specificity by split gene reassembly

The engineering of new enzymes that efficiently and specifically modify DNA sequences is necessary for the development of enhanced gene therapies and genetic studies. To address this need, we developed a robust strategy for evolving site-specific recombinases with novel substrate specificities. In this system, recombinase variants are selected for activity on new substrates based on enzyme-mediated reassembly of the gene encoding β-lactamase that confers ampicillin resistance to Escherichia coli. This stringent evolution method was used to alter the specificities of catalytic domains in the context of a modular zinc finger-recombinase fusion protein. Gene reassembly was detectable over several orders of magnitude, which allowed for tunable selectivity and exceptional sensitivity. Engineered recombinases were evolved to react with sequences from the human genome with only three rounds of selection. Many of the evolved residues, selected from a randomly-mutated library, were conserved among other members of this family of recombinases. This enhanced evolution system will translate recombinase engineering and genome editing into a practical and expedient endeavor for academic, industrial and clinical applications.
Basal and stress-induced corticosterone levels in olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) in relation to their mass nesting behavior.

Adrenocortical responsiveness to turning stress was examined in wild, reproductively-active olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) in relation to their mass nesting (arribada) behavior. We hypothesized that the high sensitivity threshold (HST) observed in ovipositing sea turtles is associated with a diminished sensitivity of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to stressful stimuli in arribada females. We tested this hypothesis by determining whether arribada females exhibited an increased activation threshold of the HPA axis to an imposed stressor (turning stress). Mean basal corticosterone (B) and glucose levels were below 1.0 ng/ml and 60 mg/dl, respectively. Basal B remained unchanged throughout a 24-hr period in basking females. Most animals responded to turning stress with elevated mean B levels (up to 6.5 ng/ml after 6 hr) and no increase in circulating glucose. Nearly 50% of females (and none of the males) were refractory to the stimulation. Males exhibited the most rapid response, with B levels significantly elevated by 20 min over basal levels. Among females, arribada and solitary nesters exhibited a slower rate of response than basking, non-nesting animals. These results demonstrate that olive ridleys exhibit stress-induced changes in circulating B which are slower than those observed in most reptilian and in mammalian, avian, and piscine species. Furthermore, the presence of refractory females and the relatively slower increase in B in arribada and solitary nesters indicate a hyporesponsiveness of the HPA axis to turning stress in nesting olive ridleys. The hyporesponsiveness may be part of a mechanism to facilitate arribada nesting. J. Exp. Zool. 284:652-662, 1999.
On the Mechanism of Silicon Nitride Chemical Vapor Deposition from Dichlorosilane and Ammonia

Silicon nitride, Si 3N4, films have broad industrial applications, particularly in semiconductors and integrated circuit technology. 1 One common way for depositing the films is the reaction of dichlorosilane (DCS, SiH2Cl2) with ammonia (NH3). Optimization of the film deposition and properties often requires knowledge of gas-phase and surface reaction kinetics. The commonly used approach for deriving a mechanism and kinetics of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is based on experimental results combined with reasonable assumptions. The reaction rate parameters of the resulting gas-phase reactions and semiempirical deposition reactions are then fit to experimental film growth rate data in reactor simulations. 2-5 Such an approach, although useful, has serious limitations due to the lack of understanding of the reaction mechanism on a molecular level. Fundamental understanding of deposition chemistry can aid in implementation of new technologies and in obtaining films of high quality with respect to their structure and properties. 6 A few kinetic models available in the literature for silicon nitride deposition 2-5,7 are based on different assumptions about the mechanism of gas-phase and surface reactions. Surface reactions have been treated by assuming various forms for the conversion of adsorbed gas-phase reactants and intermediates into the final Si 3N4 film without considering possible elementary reactions. In the model suggested by Peev et al. 3 a single power-law expression, rate 5 k [SiH2Cl2] 0.49 [NH3] 0.46 (Freundlich adsorpbtion isotherm), has been used to fit to experimental data and no gas-phase reactions are considered. Roenigk and Jensen 2 have included gas-phase decomposition of DCS into dichlorosililene and hydrogen into their kinetic models, Eq. 1, in order to explain film nonuniformities and growth rate changes across the wafer during low pressure CVD growth. The formation of aminochlorosilane (ACS, SiH2(Cl)NH2) via direct reaction of DCS with ammonia, Eq. 2, was also considered as an alternative. Under the low pressure conditions studied, inclusion of this bimolecular reaction “gives less quantitative agreement with experimental data” 2 SiH2Cl2 r SiCl2 1 H2
Interface structure of photonic multilayers prepared by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition

Abstract The structures of substrate/layer, layer/layer, and layer/air interfaces in optical multilayers made using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) have been probed for the first time using X-ray reflectivity and neutron reflectivity. From the point of view of optical applications the interfaces are extremely sharp, sharper than is often achievable with the self-assembly of block copolymers or deposition techniques in which the polymer layers contact while in a fluid state. The average interface width, a I , between layers made from different precursors is about 40 A (16 A rms). The layer/layer interfaces are generally 2–3 times broader than the layer/air interfaces. Polymeric fluorocarbon films deposited on a Si substrate using PECVD with octafluorocyclobutane (OFCB) monomer show uniform scattering length density with depth except for a region of molecular thickness immediately adjacent to the substrate. Films made from deuterated benzene show uniform density throughout the film thickness.
Conformational Flexibility in the Allosteric Regulation of Human UDP-α-d-Glucose 6-Dehydrogenase

UDP-α-d-xylose (UDX) acts as a feedback inhibitor of human UDP-α-d-glucose 6-dehydrogenase (hUGDH) by activating an unusual allosteric switch, the Thr131 loop. UDX binding induces the Thr131 loop to translate ∼5 A through the protein core, changing packing interactions and rotating a helix (α6136–144) to favor the formation of an inactive hexameric complex. But how does to conformational change occur given the steric packing constraints of the protein core? To answer this question, we deleted Val132 from the Thr131 loop to approximate an intermediate state in the allosteric transition. The 2.3 A resolution crystal structure of the deletion construct (Δ132) reveals an open conformation that relaxes steric constraints and facilitates repacking of the protein core. Sedimentation velocity studies show that the open conformation stabilizes the Δ132 construct as a hexamer with point group symmetry 32, similar to that of the active complex. In contrast, the UDX-inhibited enzyme forms a lower-symmetry, horseshoe-...
The biogenesis and regulation of telomerase holoenzymes

Chromosome stability requires a dynamic balance of DNA loss and gain in each terminal tract of telomeric repeats. Repeat addition by a specialized reverse transcriptase, telomerase, has an important role in maintaining this equilibrium. Insights that have been gained into the cellular pathways for biogenesis and regulation of telomerase ribonucleoproteins raise new questions, particularly concerning the dynamic nature of this unique polymerase.
Myocardial Preconditioning: Characteristics, Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications

Perioperative myocardial ischemia and dysfunction re main prevalent after cardiac surgery despite the use of conventional measures to provide myocardial protec tion. Myocardial preconditioning is a powerful, endog enously regulated means of myocardial protection that may also have some clinical usage for patients undergo ing cardiac surgical procedures. The paradoxical con cept of using ischemia as a stimulus for myocardial protection has been studied extensively in animals and humans. The specific characteristics and constituents of preconditioning have been well identified. The mecha nism remains to be completely elucidated due to differ ences among species and experimental models. Some pharmacologic agents are capable of mimicking the classic mechanism of ischemic preconditioning. Pharma cologic and ischemic preconditioning may have signifi cant clinical use and therapeutic efficacy as a means of providing myocardial protection during cardiac surgery, especially in procedures that do not use cardiopleg...
U/Th dating by SHRIMP RG ion-microprobe mass spectrometry using single ion-exchange beads

Abstract We present a new analytical method for U-series isotopes using the SHRIMP RG (Sensitive High mass Resolution Ion MicroProbe) mass spectrometer that utilizes the preconcentration of the U-series isotopes from a sample onto a single ion-exchange bead. Ion-microprobe mass spectrometry is capable of producing Th ionization efficiencies in excess of 2%. Analytical precision is typically better than alpha spectroscopy, but not as good as thermal ionization mass spectroscopy (TIMS) and inductively coupled plasma multicollector mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Like TIMS and ICP-MS the method allows analysis of small samples sizes, but also adds the advantage of rapidity of analysis. A major advantage of ion-microprobe analysis is that U and Th isotopes are analyzed in the same bead, simplifying the process of chemical separation. Analytical time on the instrument is ∼60 min per sample, and a single instrument-loading can accommodate 15–20 samples to be analyzed in a 24-h day. An additional advantage is that the method allows multiple reanalyses of the same bead and that samples can be archived for reanalysis at a later time. Because the ion beam excavates a pit only a few μm deep, the mount can later be repolished and reanalyzed numerous times. The method described of preconcentrating a low concentration sample onto a small conductive substrate to allow ion-microprobe mass spectrometry is potentially applicable to many other systems.