cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulated joint infection assessment by rapid detection of live bacteria with real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Background: Although microbiological bacterial culture is currently considered the gold standard for diagnosis of septic arthritis, many studies have documented substantial false-negative and false-positive rates. The objective of this study was to determine whether real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction can be used to detect bacterial messenger RNA (mRNA) in synovial fluid as a way to distinguish live and dead bacteria as an indicator of active infection. Methods: Synovial fluid samples were obtained from twelve consecutive patients who presented with knee pain and effusion but no evidence of infection. Following assurance of sterility with plate cultures, each sample was inoculated with clinically relevant bacteria and incubated for twenty-four hours to simulate septic arthritis. Bacterial viability and load were assessed with cultures. Selected samples were also treated with a single dose of a combination of two antibiotics, vancomycin and gentamicin, and sampled at several time points. Total RNA isolated from each sample was analyzed in triplicate with one-step real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to detect mRNA encoding for the genes groEL or femC. Controls included sterile, uninoculated samples and inoculated samples analyzed with quantitative polymerase chain reaction without reverse transcription. mRNA content was estimated on the basis of detection limits as a function of serial dilutions and was expressed as a function of colony number in bacterial cultures and RNA content as determined spectrophotometrically. Results: All synovialfluid samples that had been inoculated with one of the four bacterial species, and analyzed in triplicate, were identified (distinguished from aseptic synovial fluid) with real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction; there were no false-negative results. All inoculated samples produced bacterial colonies on culture plates, while cultures of the aseptic samples were negative for growth. The detection limit of the one-step bacterial mRNA-based real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction varied depending on the bacterial species. A time-dependent decrease in the concentration of detectable bacterial mRNA was seen after incubation of bacteria with antibiotics. Conclusions: The direct quantification of the concentration of viable bacterial mRNA with real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction allows identification of both culture-positive bacterial infection and so-called unculturable bacterial infection in a simulated septic arthritis model. In contrast to conventional polymerase chain reaction, real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction minimizes false-positive detection of nonviable bacteria and thus provides relevant information on the success or failure of antibiotic therapy.
A clonal analysis of tergite development in Drosophila of ultraabdominal and paradoxical genotypes.

Abstract The developmental parameters of homeotic second abdominal anlage cells in flies with Ultraabdominal and paradoxical genotypes are compared with those of normal second abdominal anlage cells through the use of induced mitotic recombination to mark the clonal descendants of single anlage cells. Homeotic and normal second abdominal anlage cells show the same pattern of mitotic activity during development. The homeotic second abdominal anlage cells with Ultraabdominal genotype proliferate to the same extent as normal anlage cells during hemitergite formation. However, the proliferation of homeotic second abdominal anlage cells with paradoxical genotype is decreased due to the failure of some daughter cells either to divide or to differentiate normally. The number of anlage cells in a homeotic second abdominal histoblast with Ultraabdominal genotype is slightly smaller and more variable than that in a normal second abdominal histoblast. The number of anlage cells in a homeotic second abdominal histoblast with paradoxical genotype is much smaller and much more variable than that in a normal second abdominal histoblast. These results are discussed in relation to mechanisms governing cell determination. In addition, some aspects of pattern formation in incomplete homeotic second abdominal hemitergites are presented and discussed.
Heat exchanger optimization in a crude preheat train

Determining the sizes of heat exchangers which minimize the cost of a crude preheat train were investigated. SIMAN was used to simulate the system for different overdesign factors, and it was found out that the operating cost was minimized by maximiz ing the furnace coil outlet temperature.An overdesign factor of 10% yielded the best results; this is less than the 25% normally used in practice. This suggests that time- dependent simulation can lead to tighter control of overdesign in the design of process equipment under risk and uncertainty conditions. Time-dependent simulations are rarely used in the chemical process industry.
Comparison of Three Techniques for the Capture and Transport of Impounded Subyearling American Shad

Abstract A comparison of three techniques for the capture of impounded juvenile American shad (Alosa sapidissima; 50–100 mm total length) showed a 1-m-diameter entrainment net to be an order of magnitude more efficient than a black rectangular tank, which relied on a light source to attract the fish at night. A third technique, pond drawdown, was by far the most efficient, but it also resulted in high (>50%) short-term mortality. American shad captured by the first two techniques were transported a short distance and placed in circular holding tanks (1.22 or 2.44 m in diameter). After initial treatment with 0.5% sea salts for 1 d and continued culture in 13–15°C water, these fish schooled and fed normally within 1 week, and there was no mortality within 48 h after transfer. Weekly overall mortality rates ranged from 1.8 to 8.4%. Regression analysis showed a significant inverse relation between weekly mortality and number of fish per tank, suggesting that relatively large numbers offish in transport or hol...
Data base management system for assisted reproduction.

A substantial amount of data are generated from a single cycle of in vitro fertilization (IVF), gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT), or related techniques. Maintaining an accurate and timely record of the flow of information is complicated by provision of service to many patients concurrently, diverse origins of data, and the use of donor sperm, donor oocytes, and/or cryopreservation. We have developed a data base management system for use on a network of personal computers that takes into account the volume, intricacy, and specialized features of data generated by IVF and GIFT programs. The major products of the system are (1) compact, individual patient reports on virtually all details of each treatment cycle; (2) reports on aggregate data (e.g., monthly, quarterly, or yearly); (3) automated summaries for submission to the American Fertility Society National Registry; and (4) creation of raw data files of user-specified variables that could be used for statistical analysis.
Reverse genetic system for the analysis of parvovirus telomeres reveals interactions between transcription factor binding sites in the hairpin stem

The left-hand or 3'-terminal hairpin of minute virus of mice (MVM) contains sequence elements essential for both viral DNA replication at the left-hand origin (oriL) and for the modulation of the P4 promoter, from which the viral nonstructural gene cassette is transcribed. This hairpin sequence has proven difficult to manipulate in the context of the viral genome. Here we describe a system for generating mutant viruses using synthetic hairpin oligonucleotides and a truncated form of the infectious clone. This allows manipulation of the sequence of the left-hand hairpin and examination of the effects in the context of the viral life cycle. We have confirmed the requirement for a functional parvovirus initiation factor (PIF) binding site and determined that an optimized PIF binding site, with 6 bases between the half-sites, was actually detrimental to viral growth. The distal PIF half-site overlaps a cyclic AMP-responsive element (CRE), which was shown to play an important role in initiating infection, particularly in 324K simian virus 40-transformed human fibroblasts. Interestingly, reducing the spacing of the PIF half-sites, and thus the affinity of the binding site for PIF, increased viral fitness relative to wild type in 324K cells, but not in murine A9 cells. These results indicate that the relative importance of factor binding to the CRE and PIF sites during the establishment of an infection differs markedly between these two host cells and suggest that the suboptimal spacing of PIF half-sites found in wild-type virus represents a necessary reduction in the affinity of the PIF interaction in favor of CRE function.
When Was Petroleum First Noticed in United States?: GEOLOGICAL NOTES

Most authorities have accepted the discovery date of petroleum in this country as 1627 quoting a letter by Pere Joseph de la Roche Daillon which has been interpreted as referring to the famous oil spring near Cuba, New York. Daillon9s letter can hardly be taken as an authentic first reference as he probably didn9t get near the Cuba oil spring, and referred to "huile" rather than "petrole." The earliest actual reference was in 1656 when Jesuit missionaries came to Cayuga Lake and reported they had heard of a petroleum spring; this spring was noted in 1664 by Pierre Boucher.
The Effect of Curriculum on Inferences of Reading Performance and Improvement

In this study, 12 students receiving special education services were systematically monitored from two reading curricula concurrently throughout the academic year. Long range goal sampling was used to select measurement passages from two sources: their instructional reading program, which contained highly controlled vocabulary and the curriculum of the mainstream, representing a traditional basal. Paired t-tests were computed to ascertain whether the curriculum made an impact on several indices of performance, some of which were static (measured once, like first performance level in baseline) and others which were dynamic (measured over time, like the average slope of improvement throughout a phase). Although some differences in performance were significant in both static and dynamic indices, performance changes over time were quite comparable in both curricula.
Somatic treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Abstract Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related syndromes often present to physicians other than psychiatrists. These patients are difficult to recognize and even more difficult to treat and the abundance of therapeutic approaches available indicates that none is clearly effective in all cases. Patients frequently present with symptoms seemingly laden with unconscious symbolism and dynamic meaning; yet psychodynamic treatments, particularly if they are loosely structured and nondirective, rarely reduce the symptoms. Behavior therapy fares much better, particularly with compulsive rituals. Likewise, electroconvulsive therapy is not regarded as useful in the treatment of OCD. There are, however, a number of modalities that may be extremely helpful in the treatment of these patients. We review somatic treatments of OCD including medications, electroconvulsive therapy, and psychosurgery.
The child with cleft lip and palate: 20 years of progress

Abstract There are many indications that the child with cleft lip and palate today receives treatment that is greatly improved from that offered in 1960. Advances are evident in all aspects of treatment. On the other hand, specific concerns enumerated here are evidence of the need for additional study and research. The attention of all related disciplines is required if the next 20 years are to be equally productive.
Segregation of Na(+)-channel gene expression during neuronal-glial branching of a rat PNS-derived stem cell line, RT4-AC.

Abstract RT4 is a family of cell lines isolated from an ethylnitrosourea-induced rat peripheral neurotumor. RT4-AC cells express both excitable membrane and glial cell properties. In a process called cell-type conversion, RT4-AC cells segregate these properties to generate three distinct derivative cell types which have been classified as either nearonal (RT4-E and RT4-B) or glial (RT4-D). In this report we demonstrate that: (1) upon cell-type conversion, Na + -channel mRNA expression segregates primarily with the RT4 neuronal derivatives, (2) the SkM2 Na + -channel gene, which was originally isolated from rat muscle cDNA libraries, is the predominant gene expressed by the RT4 neuronal derivatives, (3) the three rat brain Na + -channel genes I, II, and III and the muscle-derived SkM1 gene are not the principal Na + -channel genes involved in the segregation, although very low levels of message of these genes are detected, and (4) the RT4 glial derivative expresses slightly higher levels of message from rat brain genes I and II than the neuronal derivatives. Since the RT4 cell lines were derived from a peripheral neurotumor these results present the possibility that the SkM2 gene may be important in vivo in the rat peripheral nervous system.
Alternatives to lifting concrete masonry blocks onto rebar: biomechanical and perceptual evaluations

This study examined the use of and barriers to H-block and high lift grouting, two alternatives to lifting concrete masonry blocks onto vertical rebar. Peak and cumulative shoulder motions were evaluated, as well as adoption barriers: H-block cost and stakeholder perceptions. Results indicated that using the alternatives significantly decreased peak shoulder flexion (p < 0.001). A case study indicated that building cost was higher with H-block, but the difference was less than 2% of the total cost. Contractors and specifiers reported important differences in perceptions, work norms, and material use and practices. For example, 48% of specifiers reported that use of high lift grouting was the contractor's choice, while 28% of contractors thought it must be specified. Use of H-block or high-lift grouting should be considered as methods to reduce awkward upper extremity postures. Cost and stakeholders’ other perceptions present barriers that are important considerations when developing diffusion strategies f...
Right Brain: We were all once “fixed and dilated”

I was the child neurology resident on service when we were asked to consult on a 27-week premature baby transferred to the intensive care nursery. The baby had developed Escherichia coli meningitis at 1 week of life. The referring pediatrics team described him as having “fixed and dilated” pupils with a “burst suppression” pattern on EEG. They appeared to have given up hope for the baby's recovery, telling the transport team, “I'm so glad you have an ethics team at your hospital that can help facilitate withdrawal of care.” I immediately felt the need to protect the baby as I listened to him being described in these terms. I was 26 weeks pregnant at the time. The baby was a gestational peer to my own baby, and I felt he was being profoundly misunderstood. I knew that developing in a darkened uterus, my baby's pupils were also “fixed and dilated” and his brain wave activity was also “burst suppressed” in appearance. At that age, all babies' are. Just like the neocortex, the brainstem develops over the course of gestation. As neurologists, we tend to think …
The Phenomena of Proton Transfer from Catalytic Oxides

Chemical processes that occur at the particle aqueous interface are properly termed colloidal when the particle is a material where one or more of its three dimensions lies within the range of 1-1000 nm. Nanoparticles which include porous materials and nanostructures that meet this requirement have been the subject of investigation from researchers from a variety of disciplines and their studies have been reported in the Journal of Colloid and Interface Science as well as other archival journals for many years. The chemical process of charge development on colloidal particles is, in general, determined by a plethora of complex physico-chemical properties of the particles' surfaces exposed to the surrounding aqueous environment. The existence of surface charge plays an essential role in the dispersity, flocculation properties, ion exchange capacity, dissolution, and deposition of cations and anions of synthetic and natural materials. In particular, recent advances in catalytic science have demonstrated that the "black art" of catalyst preparation does have a scientific basis. The objective of this article is to demonstrate that surface charge development (a consequence of proton transfer) as a function of pH, the so-called master variable, can identify specific domains of charge maxima. It is found that the number and strength of charged sites can be correlated with the catalytic properties of the studied materials, even though the reaction conditions are significantly different from those under which the surface charge was measured. Such findings are essential for the establishment of design and construction protocols and prediction of the performance of catalysts. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.
Hume and Conservatism.

Although David Hume's stature as a philosopher has rarely been questioned, his claims as a political theorist have fared less well. Jefferson showed deep hostility towards Hume's ideas, while John Adams could find agreement with only a few points. Later opinion has been less vehement but still reserved. Thomas Huxley thought Hume's political writings suggestive, but on the whole marred by an unabashed desire for literary success. In Sir Leslie Stephen's judgment Hume was guilty of a “cynical conservatism” that was at once superficial and unhistorical.More recent studies, such as those of Sabine and Halevy, have established more securely Hume's place in political thought but have left certain ambiguities. Sabine has coupled Hume with Burke as an opponent of eighteenth-century rationalism, while Halevy viewed him as a forerunner of the “philosophical radicalism” of Bentham, Adam Smith, James Mill, and Ricardo. To have fathered squabbling children is always something of an embarrassment, but particularly so when one is, like Hume, temperamentally averse to taking sides. It is true, nonetheless, that if a temporary distinction is made between Hume's doctrine and his influence, it is possible to maintain that his influence worked in two quite different directions. His inquires into causation, the role of reason, and the nature of moral judgments helped eventually to undermine the natural law structure of eighteenth-century liberalism, while his emphasis on utility as the test of institutions contributed an important ingredient to Benthamite liberalism.
Issue relevance and source credibility as a determinant of retention

Forty-four college students were randomly assigned to four groups in which they read a single communication varying in levels (high-low) of source credibility and issue relevance. Immediate retention was assessed by six questions contained on one of two randomly distributed questionnaires. Long-term retention assessment consisted of combining items on the immediate retention questionnaires—thus obtaining two measures, one for identical items and another for new items. Results indicated that source credibility and issue relevance interact with the high source credibility /high issue relevance group retaining a statistically significant greater amount of issue content than the high source credibility/low issue relevance and low source credibility/high issue relevance groups.
Treatment of premature ventricular complexes with acebutolol

Abstract The effect of intravenous acebutolol versus saline solution on frequent premature ventricular complexes was evaluated in a double-blind, randomized study in 20 patients, including 3 with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Frequent premature ventricular complexes were abolished or reduced by 75 percent or more in none of 12 patients given saline solution but in 18 of 20 patients (90 percent) given acebutolol ( P
Reconstitution of forskolin from a ring C dihydropyran-4-one degradation product thereof

Abstract Dihydropyran-4-one 2b, derived from the known degradation product 2a of forskolin 1, has been successfully converted into forskolin by a photochemical route.
Challenges in Optimizing Oral Communication in Children With Cochlear Implants

As the number of children with cochlear implants increases, more speech and hearing professionals will be called on to take leadership roles in developing specialized intervention and educational programs. Because of their graduate-level training in speech, language, and hearing disorders, speech-language pathologists and audiologists will increasingly find themselves viewed as "local experts" on cochlear implant issues. The articles in this forum support that role by addressing topics that are critical for serving children who have cochlear implants. Although cochlear implant technology clearly has impressive potential for improving the lives of deaf children, the actualization of those improvements requires informed and concerted effort from highly skilled professionals. It is hoped that the information in this clinical forum will enable readers to expand their knowledge base and clinical skills to meet the challenges of serving children who have cochlear implants.
Two different ways that hydrogen ions are involved in the thermodynamics and rapid-equilibrium kinetics of the enzymatic catalysis of S=P and S+H2O=P.

Abstract Hydrogen ions are involved in two different ways in the thermodynamics and rapid-equilibrium kinetics of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. The two ways are through p K s and through the production or consumption of hydrogen ions in the mechanism. These ways are examined for the catalyzed reactions S P and S + H 2 O P. Since the apparent equilibrium constant K ′ can be calculated from the kinetic parameters by use of the Haldane equation, the treatment of the effects of pH must be consistent in thermodynamics and kinetics. This leads to a new kind of Haldane equation that involves 10 pH or 10 − pH in addition to the kinetic parameters when hydrogen ions are produced or consumed. These concepts are applicable to more complicated reactions and rate equations. Derivations of equations for calculating these two types of pH effects are discussed in thermodynamics and rapid-equilibrium kinetics. A computer program is used to make four plots of apparent equilibrium constants and changes in the binding of hydrogen ions in the catalyzed reaction.
Negative regulation of cytosolic phospholipase A2 by melatonin in the rat pineal gland

In this paper evidence that supports a new role for melatonin as a negative endogenous regulator of cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) is presented. When rat pineal glands were incubated in culture, time-dependent release of arachidonic acid (AA) was observed, which was significantly inhibited by a known 85-kDa cPLA(2) inhibitor, methyl arachidonyl fluorophosphonate. Co-incubation with melatonin inhibited the AA release in a concentration-dependent manner, and this decrease was accompanied by a reduction of cPLA(2) protein and mRNA expression. Melatonin-receptor agonists, 2-iodo-N-butanoyl-5-methoxytryptamine and 5-methoxycarbonylamino-N-acetyltryptamine, also decreased AA release and cPLA(2) protein and mRNA levels, while pre-incubation with the melatonin receptor antagonists luzindole and 2-phenylmelatonin abolished the melatonin effect. In vivo, as melatonin production reflected a typical diurnal variation, endogenous non-esterified AA and cPLA(2) mRNA levels in the rat pineal gland showed an off-phase diurnal pattern in relation to melatonin levels. Intravenous administration of isoproterenol, which has been shown to elevate melatonin production, also decreased the levels of non-esterified AA and cPLA(2) mRNA significantly. Direct administration of melatonin to rats by intravenous injection decreased the levels of non-esterified AA, cPLA(2) protein and mRNA in rat pineal glands. In conclusion, melatonin endogenously down-regulates cPLA(2) expression, presumably through melatonin-receptor-mediated processes.
Management Preparation for Computer Automation: Emergent Patterns and Problems

This article analyzes the preparation being done by the management with regard to the implementation of computer automation. The study as well as supplementary information implies that management's...
Chemotherapy-related posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome.

Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a complex disorder with many hypothesized mechanisms. Here, Bhatt and colleagues present a patient who developed PRES subsequent to administration of chemotherapy. The authors discuss in detail the potential causative mechanisms for PRES, emphasizing the need for early recognition of the syndrome and prompt withdrawal of the offending agent in affected patients Background A 45-year-old woman with small-cell lung cancer presented to a hospital emergency department in an acute confusional state, with blurred vision and mild headache. Following progressively increasing lethargy, she subsequently became unresponsive to tactile and verbal stimuli. She had recently been started on chemotherapy with carboplatin and gemcitabine. Investigations Physical examination, imaging studies including brain MRI, noncontrast brain CT scans and magnetic resonance angiography, continuous EEG monitoring, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Diagnosis Posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES) related to chemotherapy, and nonconvulsive status epilepticus related to PRES. Management Withholding of chemotherapeutic agents, and antiseizure therapy for the status epilepticus.
A faculty program of assessment for a college level competency‐based communication core curriculum

This article describes the design and implementation of an assessment program for a college communication program that led to a new competency‐based curriculum with expanded assessment procedures.
BLUE CROSS‐BLUE SHIELD ADMINISTRATION COSTS: A STUDY OF NON‐PROFIT HEALTH INSURERS

The administrative costs of Blue Cross and Blue Shield are examined in this paper. The main finding is that the Blues appear to enjoy substantial managerial slack. This striking conclusion is based upon some rather circumstantial evidence. First, no economies of scale are found which is not true of the commercial insurers. Second, the variance in costs is much smaller for those costs associated with Medicare administration than for the Blues own business. Finally, despite the cost advantages of the merged organizational form, this is not the more prevalent form.
Soft decode-and-forward cooperative communication with distributed space-time coding

Abstract In existing soft decode-and-forward (SDF) cooperative communication systems, the source node is idling in the second time phase while the relay transmits the soft information. In fact, the source can transmit the hard information that cooperates with the relay's soft information using distributed space-time block codes (DSTBC). In this paper, we theoretically derive the detection performance in the second time phase by either using or not using the DSTBC based on the assumption that the soft information can be approximated by Gaussian distribution. This result also enables the optimal power allocation between the source and the relay in the second time phase. Finally, we show via simulation that the advantage of using DSTBC in the second time phase leads to the overall performance improvement of the coded cooperative system.
Discovery of a Neutral-to-Ionic Phase Transition in Organic Materials

A systematic study of mixed stacked organic charge-transfer compounds shows that these materials are either neutral or ionic and that they range from being near the neutral-ionic boundary to being far away. Under pressure, several neutral compounds near this boundary are found to undergo a reversible phase transition to an ionic ground state. This is the first observation of a neutral-to-ionic transition in any kind of material.
2nd International Conference on HIV Treatment Adherence

The 2nd International Conference on HIV Treatment Adherence was held from March 28–30, 2007, in Jersey City, NJ, USA. This was the second year the conference was jointly sponsored by the International Association of Physicians in AIDS Care and the National Institute of Mental Health. A similar HIV adherence conference entitled ‘Elements of Success’ had been held previously. The meeting was organized for physicians, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, social workers, researchers and other healthcare professionals interested in current HIV adherence research. The conference format included plenary sessions, workshops, oral abstract sessions, invited symposia and a poster display, allowing ample time for networking and meeting with colleagues from around the world. Attendees of the conference also had the opportunity to attend round table discussion groups organized by regions of interest, including Sub-Saharan Africa and the southeast USA; areas of interest including HIV stigma, disclosure issues and building international collaborations; and disciplinary groups for social workers, mental health professionals, nurses and pharmacists.
Simple context-free languages and free monadic recursion schemes

A context-free language is said to be simple if it is accepted by a single-state deterministic pushdown store acceptor that operates in real-time and accepts by empty store. While the problem remains open of deciding whether or not the language accepted by a deterministic pushdown store acceptor is simple, it is shown that this problem is equivalent to another problem in schemata theory. This question is that of determining whether or not a monadic recursion scheme has a strongly equivalent free scheme.
Estimating Multiplicative Regression Terms in the Presence of Measurement Error

Measurement error is a continuing concern for sociologists. A particularly nagging problem has been estimating regression coefficients of multiplicative effects when the component variables contain measurement error. Recently, Heise (1986) presented a corrected estimator for multiplicative terms containing measurement error. The research presented here extends Heise's work, and examines the use of an alternate corrected/constrained estimator proposed by Fuller (1980, 1987). The results of a Monte Carlo simulating give some support for Heise's findings, while providing further explanation for the behavior of estimators. The simulation focuses on small samples (n = 60 and n = 90), and examines the impact of different levels of measurement reliability on error correction procedures. Estimators are compared on the basis of bias, variance, root mean squared error, and singlesample inference accuracy. OLS is included as a benchmark. Results indicated only modest improvements over OLS in estimation using the cor...
Nutritional support and brain tissue glucose metabolism in poor-grade SAH: a retrospective observational study

We sought to determine the effect of nutritional support and insulin infusion therapy on serum and brain glucose levels and cerebral metabolic crisis after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We used a retrospective observational cohort study of 50 mechanically ventilated poor-grade (Hunt-Hess 4 or 5) aneurysmal SAH patients who underwent brain microdialysis monitoring for an average of 109 hours. Enteral nutrition was started within 72 hours of admission whenever feasible. Intensive insulin therapy was used to maintain serum glucose levels between 5.5 and 7.8 mmol/l. Serum glucose, insulin and caloric intake from enteral tube feeds, dextrose and propofol were recorded hourly. Cerebral metabolic distress was defined as a lactate to pyruvate ratio (LPR) > 40. Time-series data were analyzed using a general linear model extended by generalized estimation equations (GEE). Daily mean caloric intake received was 13.8 ± 6.9 cal/kg and mean serum glucose was 7.9 ± 1 mmol/l. A total of 32% of hourly recordings indicated a state of metabolic distress and < 1% indicated a state of critical brain hypoglycemia (< 0.2 mmol/l). Calories received from enteral tube feeds were associated with higher serum glucose concentrations (Wald = 6.07, P = 0.048), more insulin administered (Wald = 108, P < 0.001), higher body mass index (Wald = 213.47, P < 0.001), and lower body temperature (Wald = 4.1, P = 0.043). Enteral feeding (Wald = 1.743, P = 0.418) was not related to brain glucose concentrations after accounting for serum glucose concentrations (Wald = 67.41, P < 0.001). In the presence of metabolic distress, increased insulin administration was associated with a relative reduction of interstitial brain glucose concentrations (Wald = 8.26, P = 0.017), independent of serum glucose levels. In the presence of metabolic distress, insulin administration is associated with reductions in brain glucose concentration that are independent of serum glucose levels. Further study is needed to understand how nutritional support and insulin administration can be optimized to minimize secondary injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
An intrinsic viscosity‐molecular weight relation for polyacrylonitrile

Weight-average molecular weights and intrinsic viscosities in dimethyl formamide at 25° have been measured for four unfractionated low-conversion acrylonitrile polymers covering the molecular weight range 30 to 250 thousand. The results follow the equation:
Probabilistic methods of identifying genes in prokaryotic genomes: Connections to the HMM theory

In this paper, we review developments in probabilistic methods of gene recognition in prokaryotic genomes with the emphasis on connections to the general theory of hidden Markov models (HMM). We show that the Bayesian method implemented in GeneMark, a frequently used gene-finding tool, can be augmented and reintroduced as a rigorous forward-backward (FB) algorithm for local posterior decoding described in the HMM theory. Another earlier developed method, prokaryotic GeneMark.hmm, uses a modification of the Viterbi algorithm for HMM with duration to identify the most likely global path through hidden functional states given the DNA sequence. GeneMark and GeneMark.hmm programs are worth using in concert for analysing prokaryotic DNA sequences that arguably do not follow any exact mathematical model. The new extension of GeneMark using the FB algorithm was implemented in the software program GeneMark.fba. Given the DNA sequence, this program determines an a posteriori probability for each nucleotide to belong to coding or non-coding region. Also, for any open reading frame (ORF), it assigns a score defined as a probabilistic measure of all paths through hidden states that traverse the ORF as a coding region. The prediction accuracy of GeneMark.fba determined in our tests was compared favourably to the accuracy of the initial (standard) GeneMark program. Comparison to the prokaryotic GeneMark.hmm has also demonstrated a certain, yet species-specific, degree of improvement in raw gene detection, ie detection of correct reading frame (and stop codon). The accuracy of exact gene prediction, which is concerned about precise prediction of gene start (which in a prokaryotic genome unambiguously defines the reading frame and stop codon, thus, the whole protein product), still remains more accurate in GeneMarkS, which uses more elaborate HMM to specifically address this task.
Domain structure of vaccinia DNA ligase

The 552 amino acid vaccinia virus DNA ligase consists of three structural domains defined by partial proteolysis: (i) an amino-terminal 175 amino acid segment that is susceptible to digestion with chymotrypsin and trypsin; (ii) a protease-resistant central domain that contains the active site of nucleotidyl transfer (Lys-231); (iii) a protease-resistant carboxyl domain. The two protease-resistant domains are separated by a protease-sensitive interdomain bridge from positions 296 to 307. Adenylyltransferase and DNA ligation activities are preserved when the N-terminal 200 amino acids are deleted. However, the truncated form of vaccinia ligase has a reduced catalytic rate in strand joining and a lower affinity for DNA than does the full-sized enzyme. The 350 amino acid catalytic core of the vaccinia ligase is similar in size and protease-sensitivity to the full-length bacteriophage T7 DNA ligase.
Ice stalactites: comparison of a laminar flow theory with experiment

Recent field observations in the polar oceans show that the hollow tubes of ice called ice stalactites form around streamers of cold brine rejected by the growing sea ice. In a laboratory study of this process, we inject cold, dense brine a t a constant salinity, temperature and volume flux into an insulated tank of sea water held at its freezing point, then photograph the resultant stalactite growth. Because the inner wall temperature of the stalactite remains on the salinity-determined freezing curve, as the stalactite grows and the temperature deficit of the brine goes into the growth of ice, the inner wall melts to dilute and cool the adjacent brine back to its freezing point. This melting means that both the inner and outer stalactite radii increase with time. The radius of the stalactite tip, which is constant for each experiment, is shown to be controlled by the onset of a convective instability. If the tip becomes too large, overturning occurs and the sea-water intrusion freezes, reducing the radius of the tip so that the flow leaving the tip is marginally stable. Inside the stalactite, since the inner radius increases with time, both theory and experiment show the interior flow to be convectively unstable. The present study also derives a solution from the constant-heat-flux Graetz solution for the growth in both length and side-wall area of the stalactite. The experiments show that away from the stalactite base and the very beginning of the experiment this solution, with convection accounted for by an adjustable coefficient, describes the experimental growth. Finally, analysis of the experiments shows that as much as 50% of the ice represented by the cold brine does not go into the stalactite, rather the ice goes directly into the ocean as loose crystals.
The packed exponential connections network

PEC (Packed Exponential Connections) is a scalable interconnection network for parallel systems that meets many requirements for a large range of system sizes, i.e. from 16 to over 1,000,000 processors. A scalable network architecture must meet the following criteria: have a low average and maximum diameter to avoid communication latency; minimize routing contentions; have a constant number of ports per node and a simple wire layout to allow for expansion; be inherently fault tolerant; be subdividable for disjoint multi-user applications; and be able to handle a large range of algorithm implementations without adding undue overheads. Our initial research has shown that PEC can meet each of the above criteria within acceptable limits. Further investigation is required to confirm these preliminary results.
Heuristic Transfer in the Relationship Between Leadership and Employee Creativity

Prior research has revealed as many as 12 leadership constructs that influence employee creativity by affecting intrinsic motivation. However, little research has explored how leaders might improve...
Teaching Medical Anthropology

In the November 1977 issue of the Newsletter, we initiated a curriculum development effort with two major goals in mind: to provide the membership of the SMA with a series of "model courses" in the major medical anthropological subfields and to obtain an overview of medical anthropological training within departments of anthropology, a demographic map of personnel and programs available to students seeking specialized training in the subdiscipline. It is the latter goal that is addressed in this report. In attempting to locate the major teaching resources in medical anthropology, we created a survey questionnaire that was sent to all departments of anthropology listed in the 1976-77 and 1977-78 editions of the American An-
Changing the Way Employees Interact With Guests With Disabilities

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a disability awareness workshop and its effect on theme park employees. Two research questions were posed: Would employees who atte...
Efficient over-the-cell routing algorithm for general middle terminal model

A new class of cell models called Middle Terminal Model (MTM) has been proposed. In MTM, each cell contains two rows of terminals such that two terminals in a column of a cell are equipotential. Selecting an appropriate terminal row from two terminal rows available for each cell row in a standard cell design allows allocation of more over-the-cell area to the nets in congested channels. The MTM+V router is presented. It is an efficient router for MTM based standard cell designs, when vias are allowed in over-the-cell areas. The MTM+V router is based on two key algorithms, i.e., an optimal algorithm for terminal row selection and a greedy routing algorithm for over-the-cell and channel routing. >
Movers, Stayers, and Registration: Why Age is Correlated with Registration in the U.S.

Age is among the strongest predictors of political participation, yet it is also among the least well understood. We oer a probability model of participation in the U.S. voter registration system - the rst step in the voting process. In this model, people have a constant probability of registering to vote at any given time and a constant probability of moving. A strong relationship between age and participation arises simply as a byproduct of the rules of the registration system, namely that participation is voluntary and that it is residentially based. Specically, the probability that someone is registered increases over time (and thus with age) even when the probability of becoming registered is constant. A new, national random sample of 1.8 million voter registration records is employed to test the model. The model provides a theoretical foundation for the relationship between age and participation, identies the functional
Automated Assay for Fondaparinux (Arixtra) on the Dade Behring BCS XP

An assay for fondaparinux (Arixtra) is described based on a modified commercial assay for heparin. The assay is automated on a Dade Behring BCS XP (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Deerfield, IL) and uses the inhibition of activated factor X to quantitate the drug. The assay was unaffected by platelet contamination or the presence of warfarin. The assay was affected by the antithrombin level, and the value obtained in the assay decreased significantly when the antithrombin level was less than 60%. The assay is, however, not specific for fondaparinux. Specimens containing unfractionated or low-molecular-weight heparin will yield results by this assay that will not be an accurate estimation of concentration.
Maintaining perpetual synchrony in HeLa S3 culture

HeLa S3 cells in suspension culture are resynchronized in each successive generation by exposure to 0.25mM thymidine. The resynchronization approach appears to be superior to single- and double-block techniques because the period of effective inhibition of DNA synthesis is significantly shortened. Gram quantities of highly synchronous viable cells have been produced on a daily basis.
MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION: AN ANTHROPOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

This paper examines how the concept of multicultural education is translated into action within an inner city preschool. School policy, classroom organization, and the classroom experience of the children are analyzed. The data suggests that the concept of culture as used by teachers and staff has negative implications for program success. More importantly, the social relationships among school participants remain derivative of socioeconomic class distinctions in the larger society and consequently severely hamper the implementation of the goals of cultural pluralism embedded in the multicultural idea.
The inconvenient truth of elevated left atrial pressure and AF recurrence despite catheter ablation

Complex and progressive electrical and structural remodeling of the left atrium (LA) is critical to the formation of substrate for the maintenance and progression of atrial fibrillation (AF). Several well-known clinical conditions such as aging, hypertension, and heart failure create atrial substrate for AF. Lone AF is also associated with widespread and progressive atrial structural abnormalities, a process that is accentuated in persistent lone AF, suggesting a progressive remodeling process in the absence of structural heart disease. Atrial wall stretch (with atrial pressure as a surrogate) is an important mediator of atrial remodeling. Stretch-induced AF is mediated by mechanoelectrical feedback with increased gene expression of potassium channels, resulting in both abbreviation and spatial and temporal alternations in atrial action potential duration that is proarrhythmic. Furthermore, atrial stretch induces heterogeneous remodeling of atrial architecture characterized by cellular hypertrophy and de-differentiation, atrial fibrosis, and gap junction modulation. These changes promote widespread and site-specific atrial conduction slowing, conduction heterogeneity, and anisotropy, as well as creating lines of functional delay that facilitate circuitous wavefront propagation. Furthermore, atrial stretch may contribute to AF maintenance by stabilizing high-frequency rotors in the posterior LA and pulmonary veins (PVs). Atrial pressure and function is closely and intimately related to left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function. The atrium modulates LV filling through its reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function; in contrast, increased LA pressure may indicate increasing LV filling pressures or impaired LV relaxation. Although the relationship between atrial stretch and AF pathogenesis is well accepted, there is little data on the effect of atrial stretch on ablation outcomes, an area addressed in a contribution by Park et al in this issue of HeartRhythm. The authors postulated that increased left atrial pressure
Flying Protons in Linked Gramicidin A Channels

Different lines of evidence indicate that the mobility of protons in gramicidin A (gA) channels as well as in its SS dioxolane linked dimer (SS dimer) is comparable to the proton mobility in aqueous HCl solutions. Single-channel proton conductances in the SS dimer were measured under different experimental conditions. Bulk conductivities of HCl solutions were also measured. Ratios between calculated proton mobilities in the SS dimer and in aqueous solutions varied between 0.75 and 0.10 in the HCl concentration range of 10–6000 mM. Proton mobility in the SS dimer is profoundly affected by the lipid composition of the membrane. Attenuation of proton conduction in the SS dimer and in solution by methanol have similar characteristics. It is proposed that methanol partitions inside the pore of the SS dimer and attenuates proton conductance.