cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Colorectal Cancer Stage of Disease and Survival.

Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there are few data comparing outcomes between IBD and non–IBD-associated CRC. Methods Retrospective cohort study of patients with CRC identified from the Veteran Affairs (VA) Central Cancer Registry from 1998 to 2012 linked to national VA administrative claims to identify patients with IBD using a previously validated algorithm. The association between IBD status and stage of disease and overall risk of death were evaluated using multivariable logistic and Cox regression, respectively. Results Among 34,570 CRC patients, 217 had IBD. IBD patients were significantly younger for both colon and rectal cancer. IBD patients who developed rectal cancer were significantly more likely to present with locally advanced or metastatic disease (P = 0.007), but there was no difference in stage among patients with colon cancer. This difference persisted after multivariable adjustment (overall—odds ratio [OR] 1.40, 95% confidence interval [1.03-1.90]; colon—OR 1.22 [0.84-1.78]; rectum—OR 2.04 [1.22-3.40]). Total colectomy was more commonly performed among IBD patients. Overall, IBD was associated with a 52% increased risk of death (hazard ratio 1.52 [1.21-1.91]). Conclusions Although IBD is associated with more advanced stage at diagnosis for rectal cancer, it is associated with a worse survival primarily in patients with colon cancer. Further work is needed to better understand the reason for these observed differences between IBD and non-IBD patients and to better delineate the impact of endoscopic surveillance on CRC care and outcomes in IBD patients.
Local- and landscape-scale variables shape insect diversity in an urban biodiversity hot spot

Local community structure is shaped by processes acting at local and landscape scales. The relative importance of drivers operating across different spatial scales is difficult to test without observations across regional or latitudinal gradients. Cities exhibit strong but predictable environmental gradients overlaying a mosaic of highly variable but repeated habitat types within a constrained area. Thus, cities present a unique opportunity to explore how both local and landscape factors influence local biotic communities. We used insect communities to examine the interactions among local environmental variables (such as temperature and relative humidity), local habitat characteristics (such as plant community composition), and broad-scale patterns of urbanization (including biophysical, human-built, and socioeconomic variables) on local insect abundance, species richness, and species composition in Los Angeles, a hot, dry, near-desert city. After accounting for seasonal trends, insect species richness and abundance were highest in drier and hotter sites, but the magnitude of local environmental effects varied with the degree of urbanization. In contrast, insect species composition was best predicted by broad-scale urbanization trends, with the more native communities occurring in less urbanized sites and more cosmopolitan insects occurring in highly urbanized sites. However, insect species richness and abundance were >30% higher and insect composition was similar across sites that hosted either native or drought-tolerant plants, regardless of the degree of urbanization. These results demonstrate that urban insect biodiversity is a product of interacting mechanisms working at both local and landscape scales. However, local-scale changes to urban habitats, such as cultivating plants that are adapted to the natural environment nearest the city, can positively impact urban biodiversity regardless of location.
Preparation and Characterization of Gold-Titania Nanoparticles

We prepared gold-titania composite nanoparticles by the gas condensation method, and evaluated their physical and optical characteristics. The structure of obtained particles mainly showed that the gold particles, whose diameter ranged from 10 to 60 nm, were covered with spherical titania particles which were composite phases of anatase and rutile. The effect on the crystal structure and shapes of titania was not clearly observed by compounding with gold.
The Proteins in the Shell of Lingula

The development of mineralized hard parts in animals is a fairly recent development in geologic time. Five hundred and fifty million years ago fossils with mineralized skeletons appear in the geologic record. Although the source and form of minerals used by organisms is diverse, the assumption that vertebrates used calcium phosphate (CaPO4) and invertebrates use calcium carbonate (CaCO3) to form hard parts is useful and widespread.
How certain are our uncertainty bounds? Accounting for sample variability in Monte Carlo-based uncertainty estimates

Abstract It is common for model-based simulations to be reported using prediction interval estimates that characterize the lack of precision associated with the simulated values. When based on Monte-Carlo sampling to approximate the relevant probability density function(s), such estimates can significantly underestimate the width of the prediction intervals, unless the sample size is sufficiently large. Using theoretical arguments supported by numerical experiments, we discuss the nature and severity of this problem, and demonstrate how better estimates of prediction intervals can be achieved by adjusting the interval width to account for the size of the sample used in its construction. Our method is generally applicable regardless of the form of the underlying probability density function, and can be particularly useful when the model is expensive to run and large samples are not available. We illustrate its use via a simple example involving conceptual modeling of the rainfall-runoff response of a catchment.
Origin Storytelling in Faculty Well-being: A Pilot Study.

Background and objectives In 2020, approximately 47% of family physicians reported burnout. For physicians, professional burnout is implicated in damage to relationships, increased rates of alcohol and/or substance abuse, depression, and suicide. Professional isolation can be a major contributor to burnout. Organizational interventions targeted at promoting workplace community and collegiality have been effective in decreasing professional isolation. This study sought to decrease professional isolation and promote collegiality among family medicine faculty through an origin storytelling group. Methods Family medicine faculty of a residency program in the Midwestern United States were invited to participate in an 8-week origin storytelling group. At the end of the study, individual interviews were offered for participants to reflect on the perceived impact of the process. Additionally, 1 year poststudy, open-ended email responses were invited to assess lasting effects of collegiality. Results Fifty percent (12/24) of eligible faculty members participated in the study. Participants who completed one-on-one structured interviews shared their perspectives of the study, which allowed for the importance of the study and next directions to be identified. One-year postcompletion of the study, participants described continued changes they experienced from these groups, via open-ended, email response. Conclusion Storytelling groups can provide acceptable, valuable, and easily-implemented contributions to initiatives that enhance physician faculty well-being.
Hold My Beer: A Case Study of how Ransomware Affected an Australian Beverage Company

This case study follows the cybersecurity attack that impacted Lion, a large Australian beverage company with a portfolio of brands in beer, milk, wine, and other products. The ransomware attack, which impacted Lion in different phases, took place during a time of strained resources and increased restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper provides an overview of the warnings, events, and incidents leading up to the cyberattacks, and describes the impact to the company’s operations. This case shows the parallel and connected challenges that the company faced in dealing with the ransomware and the pandemic’s impact. While the cyber incidents had a significant impact on Lion’s operations, the organization appeared to recover from it and resume operations. The case is suitable for students and practitioners interested in cybersecurity or information systems topics and presents the compounded impacts of cyberattacks and the COVID-19 pandemic on firms.
Monitoring Fetal Well-Being in the Critical Care Setting

Pregnant patients constitute a small percentage of patients in the critical care setting, but when these patients do arrive in the unit, many questions emerge regarding the need for, extent of, and interpretation of the monitoring of the fetus. Appreciating fetal heart tracings begins with an academic understanding of the terminology used for descriptions, but then requires years of experience to develop the skill in the art of interpretation. Critical care physicians cannot be expected to have a comprehensive command of the skill set needed for this task. Pregnant patients in the critical care setting therefore require an interdisciplinary approach with the participation of an obstetrician on the team, particularly if the gestational age of the fetus is beyond the limits of viability. This chapter is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide to the assessment of fetal well-being. Rather, the aim of this chapter is to familiarize the critical care physician with some basic tools and terminology that obstetricians use in their assessments. This foundation will provide a context to aid in communication with the obstetric team and to deepen the critical care team’s understanding of the second patient—the fetus—under their care.
Role of TrkB during the postnatal development of the rat carotid body.

Abstract Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) supports innervation of the carotid body by neurons projecting from the petrosal ganglion. Although carotid body glomus cells also express TrkB, BDNF's high affinity receptor, the role of BDNF in carotid body growth and O 2 sensitivity has not been studied. Neonatal rats were treated with the TrkB antagonist K252a (100 μg kg −1 , i.p., b.i.d.) or vehicle on postnatal days P0–P6 and studied on P7. Carotid body volume was decreased by 35% after chronic K252a ( P −1 , i.p., b.i.d.). In contrast, single-unit chemoafferent responses to 5% O 2 , measured in vitro , were unaffected by chronic K252a administration. Normoxic and hypoxic ventilation, measured by head–body plethysmography, were also normal after chronic K252a administration, but acute K252a administration produced a slower, deeper breathing pattern during the transition into hypoxia. These data suggest that BDNF regulates postnatal carotid body growth but does not influence the development of glomus cell O 2 sensitivity.
A scope of the problem: Post-deployment reintegration challenges in a National Guard Unit

Background More Reserve and Guard members have been activated in the past few years than in any other time in history. In addition to the high rates of psychological and behavioral challenges among military personnel, there are other equally important post-deployment reintegration challenges. Post-deployment reintegration challenges are particularly important to Reserve and Guard members, who transition rapidly from civilian-military-civilian. Objective This study aims to describe the scope of challenges that a battalion of National Guard members (NGM) report experiencing after returning from a one-year deployment to Iraq. Method This article reports data from a sample of 126 NGM who recently returned from a one-year deployment to Iraq. The scope of post-deployment problems at baseline, 3- and 6-month post-deployment are presented. Results Overall, the rates of post-deployment psychological and behavioral problems were elevated upon returning from deployment and remained fairly constant for up to 6 months post-deployment. Approximately 30% of respondents were unsatisfied with their relationship and upwards of 30% reported family reintegration challenges. Conclusions Comparisons with similar research and implications for prevention and improvement of post-deployment quality of life are addressed.
Half-quantum vortex and d&#8257-soliton in Sr 2 RuO 4

Assuming that the superconductivity in Sr$_2$RuO$_4$ is described by a planar p-wave order parameter, we consider possible topological defects in Sr$_2$RuO$_4$. In particular, it is shown that both of the ${\hat d}$-soliton and half-quantum vortex can be created in the presence of the magnetic field parallel to the $a$-$b$ plane. We discuss how one can detect the ${\hat d}$-soliton and half-quantum vortex experimentally.
Rat mesangial α-endosulfine

Rat mesangial α-endosulfine. Background Sulfonylurea agents exert their physiologic effects via binding to specific sulfonylurea receptors (SUR) in adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (K ATP ) channels. Mesangial cells express K ATP and respond to sulfonylureas by altering glucose metabolism, elevating intracellular calcium and contracting. A putative endogenous sulfonylurea, α-endosulfine, has been demonstrated in diverse tissues and is a member of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-regulated family of phosphoproteins. This study investigates mesangial cell expression of ENSA , the gene encoding α-endosulfine, and its regulation by glucose. Methods Expression of rat glomerular and mesangial ENSA was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Northern analysis. In situ hybridization studies were carried out to investigate the presence and distribution of ENSA in kidney cortex. Expression of mesangial cell α-endosulfine was studied by immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, and confocal microscopy. Results RT-PCR with gene-specific primers and Northern blotting disclosed abundant expression of two major ENSA transcripts at 2.4kb and 1.2kb in whole rat kidney, kidney cortex, and mesangial cells. In situ hybridization of rat kidney demonstrated renal ENSA expression, particularly within glomeruli. Confocal microscopy revealed a diffusely granular, cytosolic distribution of α-endosulfine. High glucose concentrations increased ENSA expression by 24hours, an effect that persisted for at least 10days. Protein expression paralleled gene expression. Conclusion. ENSA and α-endosulfine are expressed in rat glomeruli and mesangial cell and gene and protein expression are up-regulated by a high glucose environment. α -Endosulfine has potential roles as a regulator of metabolism and contractility via mesangial cell K ATP .
A whistleblower's perspective on the Needleman case.

To the Editor.— It is remarkable that Herbert Needleman continues to attack me as a whistleblower in his case. Dr Ernhart and I reported suspicions of his misconduct. 1 His colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh found him guilty of deliberate misrepresentations 2 in his publications. From October 1990 to the present, Dr Needleman9s continuing troubles with scientific integrity have resulted from inquiries and investigations conducted serially by 1) Dr Ernhart and me, 2) the Office of Scientific Integrity at the National Institutes of Health (NIH-OSI), 3) the Inquiry Panel at the University of Pittsburgh, 4) the Hearing Board at the University of Pittsburgh, and 5) the Office of Research Integrity (ORI) at the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (successor to NIH-OSI).
Theistic Ethics : Toward a Christian Solution

Despite the theological and popularly conceived connections between religious devotion and moral living, the difficulties attending theological or religious ethicsthe attempt to tie ethics to theology or religion in some impottant sense-are myri· ad. Thanks largely to Enlightenment thought, morality has come to be construed as independent of God, so much so that the majority of moral philosophers today would without hesitation affirm that even if God exists, morality can exist apart from God-an ontological critique-and, if the precepts or dictates of morality can be known at all, they can be known apart from religious orthodoxy or theological reflection-an epistemological critique. Since the Enlightenment, at least, and in particular since Kan(s epistemological dualism, questions of religion and "speculative metaphysics" have often been consid· ered beyond the ken of rationality.' Kant's motivation, it has been suggested, was to spare religion from the rigorous scrutiny of the emerging science of his day; but the actual result proved to be detrimental to religious conviction, for it began to be por· !rayed as an inescapably subjective affair. Universal truth claims became harder to reconcile with this kind of epistemology, which is likely the inevitable while para· doxical effect of implicitly putting religion and science at odds. Religious truth claims tend to be increasingly construed as devoid of propositional content and rational evidence and are instead seen as empty faith claims rooted in a person's imagination or a group's collective psyche. The understanding of science and religion as essentially and historically opposed, incidentally, is largely mistaken. Although it is true that certain theologians and churchmen have historically stood in the way of scientific progress, it is far from true that all of them have, even a majority; and in fact, as Alfred North Whitehead has persuasively argued, the origins of modem science, such as faith in the orderliness of
Prevalence of Visually Significant Cataract and Factors Associated with Unmet Need for Cataract Surgery: Los Angeles Latino Eye Study

Purpose To estimate the prevalence of visually significant cataract in a US Latino population and to report predisposing, enabling, need, and health behavior characteristics associated with the unmet need for cataract surgery (UNCS). Design Population-based, cross-sectional study. Participants A total of 6142 Latinos 40 years and older from 6 census tracts in Los Angeles County, California. Methods Participants completed an in-home interview and a comprehensive eye examination that included assessment of lens opacification, using the slit lamp-based Lens Opacities Classification System II (LOCS II), and best-corrected visual acuity. Visually significant cataract was defined by any LOCS II grading ≥2, best-corrected visual acuity Main Outcome Measures Prevalence of visually significant cataract and odds ratios (ORs) for factors associated with UNCS. Results Of 6142 participants who completed the interview and clinical examination, 118 (1.92%) had visually significant cataract in at least 1 eye. Of the 344 participants who have needed cataract surgery, 118 (34.3%) had UNCS. Independent factors associated with UNCS included health behavior: having last eye examination ≥5 years ago compared with Conclusions Latinos in our study had a substantial UNCS. Because Latinos with specific health behavior and enabling characteristics were more likely to have UNCS, interventions aimed at modifying these characteristics may be beneficial in reducing the unmet need and thus reducing the burden of visual impairment related to cataract in the United States. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Regional and local increases in storm intensity in the San Francisco Bay Area, USA, between 1890 and 2010

[1] Studies of extreme precipitation have documented changes at the continental scale during the twentieth century, but few studies have quantified changes at small to regional spatial scales during the same time. We analyze historic data from over 600 precipitation stations in the San Francisco Bay Area (SFBA), California, to assess whether there have been statistically significant changes in extreme precipitation between 1890 and 2010. An annual exceedance probability analysis of extreme precipitation events in the SFBA, coupled with a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm, reveals an increase in the occurrence of large events. The depth-duration-frequency characteristics of maximum annual precipitation events having durations of 1 h to 60 days indicate on average an increase in storm intensity in the last 120 years, with the intensity of the largest (least frequent) events increasing the most. Mean annual precipitation (MAP) also increased during the study period, but the relative increase in extreme event intensity exceeds that of MAP, indicating that a greater fraction of precipitation fell during large events. Analysis of data from subareas within the SFBA region indicates considerable heterogeneity in the observed nonstationarity; for example, the 5 day, 25 year event exceedance depth changed by +26%, +16%, and −1% in San Francisco, Santa Rosa, and San Jose, respectively. These results emphasize the importance of analyzing local data for accurate risk assessment, emergency planning, resource management, and climate model calibration.
Viral load and short-term natural history of type-specific oncogenic human papillomavirus infections in a high-risk cohort of midadult women.

Oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) viral load may inform the origin of newly detected infections and characterize oncogenic HPV natural history in midadult women. From 2007 to 2011, we enrolled 521 25–65-year-old-female online daters and followed them triannually with mailed health and sexual behavior questionnaires and kits for self-sampling for PCR-based HPV DNA testing. Samples from oncogenic HPV positive women were selected for type-specific DNA load testing by real-time PCR with adjustment for cellularity. Linear or logistic regression models were used to evaluate relationships between viral levels, health and sexual behavior, and longitudinal oncogenic HPV detection. Type-specific viral levels were borderline significantly higher in oncogenic HPV infections that were prevalent versus newly detected (p = 0.092), but levels in newly detected infections were higher than in infections redetected after intercurrent negativity (p < 0.001). Recent sex partners were not significantly associated with viral levels. Compared with prevalent infections detected intermittently, the likelihood of persistent (OR = 4.31, 95% CI: 2.20–8.45) or single-time (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.03–1.71) detection increased per 1-unit increase in baseline log10 viral load. Viral load differences between redetected and newly detected infections suggest a portion of new detections were due to new acquisition, although report of recent new sex partners (a potential marker of new infection) was not predictive of viral load; oncogenic HPV infections in midadult women with new partners likely represent a mix of new acquisition and reactivation or intermittent detection of previous infection. Intermittent detection was characterized by low viral levels, suggesting that intermittent detection of persisting oncogenic HPV infection may be of limited clinical significance.
Early Diagnosis of Neonatal Sepsis

To better define the need for antibiotic therapy, several tests recommended as helpful in diagnosing neonatal sepsis were evaluated in 376 neonates during the first week after birth. The five most useful tests (with definitions of abnormality) were: band/total neutrophils (greater than or equal to 0.2); leukocyte count (less than 5,000/cu mm); latex-C-reactive protein (positive greater than 0.8 mg/100 ml); ESR (greater than or equal to 15 mm for the first hour); and latex haptoglobin (positive greater than 25 mg/100 ml). When these five tests were applied early (at the time infection was suspected and blood culture sent), 28 of 30 cases (93%) subsequently proven to have infection had two or more abnormal tests. This compares with only 24 of 320 babies (8%) with no subsequently documented evidence of infection. Of all babies who had two or more tests positive (n = 71), 39% had proven sepsis, and an additional 23% had "very probable" infection. The combination of leukopenia and an elevated band/total neutrophil ratio seems to be particularly predictive of sepsis (13 of 17 babies with this combination had proven sepsis). When less than two tests were positive, the probability that sepsis was not present was 99%. These simple, rapid tests require no special laboratory facilities and provide a valuable adjunct in the early detection of the neonate with sepsis.
Formatted voice messages in tactical communication

An approach is described in which message transmission devices do not transmit the speech waveform. Instead, the user must either enter a message into the device or select from a list of available messages. The device transmits indices which correspond to units of information; a unit might be a word, a phrase, or an entire message. These indices are converted to speech at the receiver. Data compression is inherent in the nature of the system. The amount of data transmitted per message depends directly on the possible number of indices which might be transmitted. The formatted message type of transmission device is text limited; the user must make a selection from a preexisting table of messages, without the ability of adding a new message to the message table. Flexibility is traded for data compression. In essence, formatted voice communication is a process of transmitting messages by indices. Since the speech output is recorded as a complete message, the complex issue of creating natural sounding speech from concatenated words is avoided. The major challenge is to design a system which has an easy-to-use input interface while incorporating a comprehensive message list. >
Investor Activism: Reshaping the Playing Field?

Shareholders of U.S. corporations historically tended towards rational apathy. Holding small blocks that were unable to affect the outcome of the vote and faced with the considerable costs associated with gathering sufficient information to make an informed decision, they adopted the so-called Wall Street Rule (it was easier to switch than fight). In the last 15 years or so, a growing number of commentators and investor activists have claimed that the rising importance of institutional investors has the potential to reshape the field by empowering shareholders to become active players in corporate governance.This paper situates investor activism in the so-called director primacy theory of corporate governance. In so doing, it demonstrates that the separation of ownership and control typical of U.S. public corporations has significant efficiency benefits. It then argues that shareholder activism threatens to undermine the advantages of director primacy without offering significant countervailing gains.Accordingly, the paper concludes that pending regulatory proposals to expand shareholder governance rights should be viewed with suspicion.
Muddling Through: The Anguish of Apprenticeship

As organisational development (OD) matures into an identifiable profession, concerns about the adequacy of training processes for members of the profession have emerged. The apprenticeship period serves a critical function in helping the novice learner discover what is expected of him or her in the field. An analysis of this developmental period may be most helpful to both experienced OD practitioners serving as sponsors for young OD professionals, as well as for those individuals “learning the ropes” as emergent OD professionals in a rapidly changing field. The experience of an apprentice‐in‐training on a large‐scale feedback project is described. A model of the apprenticeship period is highlighted using the concepts of role theory. Its implications for the sponsor and apprentice are assessed.
Mid-term follow-up of patients with transposition of the great arteries after atrial inversion operation using two- and three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging.

Background: Older patients with transposition of the great arteries who have undergone an atrial inversion procedure (ATRIAL-INV) are difficult to image by echocardiography. The surgical baffles are spatially complex. Objective: To test the hypothesis that two- and three-dimensional MRI can elucidate the spatially complex anatomy in this patient population. Materials and methods; Twelve patients with ATRIAL-INV, ages 16±4.5 years, underwent routine T1-weighted spin-echo axial imaging to obtain a full cardiac volumetric data set. Postprocessing created three-dimensional shaded surface displays and allowed for multiplanar reconstruction. Routine transthoracic echocardiography was available on all patients. Results: Three-dimensional reconstruction enabled complete spatial conceptualization of the venous pathways, and allowed for precise localization of a narrowed region in the upper limb of the systemic venous pathway found in two patients. This was subsequently confirmed on angiography. Routine MRI was able to image the full extent of the venous pathways in all 12 patients. Routine transthoracic echocardiography was able to visualize proximal portions of the venous pathways in eight (67%), the distal upper limb in five (42%), and the distal lower limb in four (33%) patients, and it was able to visualize the outflow tracts in all patients. Conclusion: Three-dimensional reconstruction adds important spatial information, which can be especially important in stenotic regions. Routine MRI is superior to transthoracic echocardiography in delineation of the systemic and pulmonary venous pathway anatomy of ATRIAL-INV patients at mid-term follow-up. Although transesophageal echocardiography is an option, it is more invasive.
Efficient eigenvalue calculations in radiative transfer

Abstract An efficient method is used to compute the eigenvalues required in a discrete-ordinates solution to a special class of radiative-transfer problems. The basis for this computation is an algorithm for finding eigenvalues of a matrix that consists of the sum of a diagonal matrix and a rank-one matrix, a form that can arise in a discrete-ordinates solution of some basic transport problems. To illustrate the efficiency of the approach, a radiative-transfer problem relevant to a non-gray model with scattering that allows complete frequency redistribution is discussed.
Beta decay in quark stars

It is shown that the energy flux, ${\stackrel{\ifmmode \dot{}\else \.{}\fi{}}{E}}_{T}$, from quark matter in "quark stars" due to the simple URCA process is roughly comparable to that from pion condensates even when quark-quark interaction (QQI) effects are ignored. The form of ${\stackrel{\ifmmode \dot{}\else \.{}\fi{}}{E}}_{T}$ is then independent of the ambiguous electron density and the effective gluon coupling in the "quark star" and accounts for the neutrino in momentum conservation. It is concluded that one need not invoke QQI to explain the recent null x-ray detection of "neutron"-star surface temperatures by the presence of a quark core.
Ethical blind spots: explaining unintentional unethical behavior

People view themselves as more ethical, fair, and objective than others, yet often act against their moral compass. This paper reviews recent research on unintentional unethical behavior and provides an overview of the conditions under which ethical blind spots lead good people to cross ethical boundaries. First, we present the psychological processes that cause individuals to behave unethically without their own awareness. Next, we examine the conditions that lead people to fail to accurately assess others’ unethical behavior. We argue that future research needs to move beyond a descriptive framework and focus on finding empirically testable strategies to mitigate unethical behavior.
Reduction of thermal residual stresses in advanced metallic composites based upon a compensating/compliant layer concept

A detailed parametric study is carried out to investigate the viability of the recently proposed compensating/compliant layer concept (i.e., the insertion of an interface material between SiC fiber and metal matrix to reduce or eliminate the residual stress buildup during cooling of the composite). The study uses a finite-element concentric cylinder model with generalized plane strain end conditions and free boundary conditions, assuming the SiC fiber to be isotropic and linear elastic and the compliant layer cylinder and matrix (Ti3Al + Nb) cylinder to be isotropic and bilinear elastic-plastic. Results show that a compensating/compliant layer acts to reduce in-plane residual stresses within the fiber and the matrix and, therefore, reduces radial cracking. However, this decrease in in-plane stresses is accompanied by an increase of longitudinal stress, which may initiate longitudinal cracking.
Randomized comparison of outcome after propofol-nitrous oxide or enflurane-nitrous oxide anaesthesia in operations of long duration

A randomized, prospective, comparative study was performed to evaluate induction characteristics, haemodynamic changes and recovery in 60 ASA I–II patients undergoing mainly gynaecological laparotomies with either propofol or thiopentone-enflurane anaesthesia. The propofol group (n = 30) received 2 mg · kg−1 propofol for induction of anaesthesia followed by propofol infusion. The thiopentone-enflurane group (n = 30) received thiopentone 4 mg · kg−1 for induction followed by enflurane (0.5–2 per cent). All patients received nitrous oxide (66 per cent)) in oxygen begun one minute after tracheal intubation, andfentanyl (1.5 μg · kg−1) four minutes prior to induction. Other drugs administered during or after anaesthesia were similar among the groups. Haemodynamic measurements were similar between propofol and enflurane groups except after tracheal intubation when the mean arterial pressure was lower in the propofol group (P < 0.05). The propofol group had significantly less (P < 0.01) emesis in the recovery room than the enflurane group. The propofol group experienced significantly less (P < 0.05) dizziness, depression/sadness and hunger than the enflurane group in the postoperative period as assessed with a visual analogue questionnaire. We conclude that propofol provided better outcome than enflurane in terms of these nonvital but annoying outcome measures after relatively long intra-abdominal operations.
Critical importance of large native trees for conservation of a rare Neotropical epiphyte

Summary The distribution of rare plants may be limited by environmental or density-dependent factors that reduce population growth and persistence. The relative importance of environmental limitations vs. the degree to which conspecifics influence recruitment may determine optimal management strategies for plants of conservation concern. We sowed seeds of a rare epiphytic orchid in trees from agricultural Costa Rican landscapes to ask how recruitment is influenced by established conspecific plants and the environment. We hypothesized that recruitment is positively influenced by conspecific plants. Conspecific adults were expected to be associated with favourable microhabitats and mycorrhizal fungi for germinating seeds, without creating unfavourably competitive conditions. Alternatively, we hypothesized that recruitment varies due to environmental differences among study sites or host trees, irrespective of adult proximity. We experimentally added 240 packets of seeds from 2 source populations into four naturally established populations. Germination was evaluated after five months. We used mixed models and conditional inference trees to evaluate results. Proximity to conspecific adults neither increased nor decreased germination. Instead, large native trees and microsites with more closed canopies supported significantly greater germination than smaller cultivated trees and microsites with more open canopies. Synthesis. Landscape changes that replace large native trees with a more homogenous array of cultivated species may not only reduce rare epiphyte populations directly, but also limit their ability to colonize disturbed secondary habitats. Because the habitat is the prime determinant of recruitment, large and often isolated native trees that act as refuges for rare epiphytes in disturbed landscapes should be a top priority for local conservation efforts.
Weber, Durkheim, and the comparative method

This essay compares and contrasts the means by which Durkheim and Weber dealt with methodological issues peculiar to the comparative study of societies, what Smelser has called "the problem of sociocultural variability and complexity." More specifically, it examines how Weber and Durkheim chose appropriate comparative units for their empirical studies. The approaches that Weber and Durkheim brought to theproblem of cross-cultural comparison have critical implications for more current procedures used in the comparative study of contemporary and historical societies.
Multiscale Modeling of Platelet Adhesion and Thrombus Growth

Our hemostatic system, when called to action, depends on the complex arrangement of a tightly regulated and extensive network of molecules with versatile functionality. Experimental methods have demonstrated marked improvement through enhanced condition-control and monitoring. However, this approach continues to provide limited explanations of the role of individual elements or of a specific component within the entire system. To fill this void, multiscale simulations based on high throughput computing and comprehensive mathematical models are showing their strength in not only revealing hidden physiological mechanisms but also predicting pharmacological/phenotypical outcome in hemostasis reactions based on quantitative analysis. In this review article, we present up-to-date computational methods that simulate the process of platelet adhesion and thrombus growth, compare and summarize their advantages and drawbacks, verify their predictive power, and project their future directions. We provide an in-depth summary of one such computational method—Platelet Adhesive Dynamics (PAD)—and discuss its application in simulating platelet aggregation and thrombus development.
Effects of Heloderma suspectum venom on blood coagulation.

Abstract The effect on blood coagulation of venom from the Gila monster Heloderma suspectum was studied in vivo and in vitro . Lethal and sublethal doses of venom failed to alter the clotting and prothrombin times of rabbit and cat blood in vivo . Venom mixed with freshly drawn blood from rabbits and cats had no effect on the clotting time. When venom was incubated with human, rabbit, and cat plasma for periods longer than 5 min, prothrombin time was prolonged. Placing venom in a boiling water bath for 15 min did not alter this.
The stunting syndrome in developing countries

AbstractLinear growth failure is the most common form of undernutrition globally. With an estimated 165 million children below 5 years of age affected, stunting has been identified as a major public health priority, and there are ambitious targets to reduce the prevalence of stunting by 40% between 2010 and 2025. We view this condition as a ‘stunting syndrome’ in which multiple pathological changes marked by linear growth retardation in early life are associated with increased morbidity and mortality, reduced physical, neurodevelopmental and economic capacity and an elevated risk of metabolic disease into adulthood. Stunting is a cyclical process because women who were themselves stunted in childhood tend to have stunted offspring, creating an intergenerational cycle of poverty and reduced human capital that is difficult to break. In this review, the mechanisms underlying linear growth failure at different ages are described, the short-, medium- and long-term consequences of stunting are discussed, and th...
A nonlinear autoregressive Volterra model of the Hodgkin---Huxley equations

We propose a new variant of Volterra-type model with a nonlinear auto-regressive (NAR) component that is a suitable framework for describing the process of AP generation by the neuron membrane potential, and we apply it to input-output data generated by the Hodgkin---Huxley (H---H) equations. Volterra models use a functional series expansion to describe the input-output relation for most nonlinear dynamic systems, and are applicable to a wide range of physiologic systems. It is difficult, however, to apply the Volterra methodology to the H---H model because is characterized by distinct subthreshold and suprathreshold dynamics. When threshold is crossed, an autonomous action potential (AP) is generated, the output becomes temporarily decoupled from the input, and the standard Volterra model fails. Therefore, in our framework, whenever membrane potential exceeds some threshold, it is taken as a second input to a dual-input Volterra model. This model correctly predicts membrane voltage deflection both within the subthreshold region and during APs. Moreover, the model naturally generates a post-AP afterpotential and refractory period. It is known that the H---H model converges to a limit cycle in response to a constant current injection. This behavior is correctly predicted by the proposed model, while the standard Volterra model is incapable of generating such limit cycle behavior. The inclusion of cross-kernels, which describe the nonlinear interactions between the exogenous and autoregressive inputs, is found to be absolutely necessary. The proposed model is general, non-parametric, and data-derived.
Characterization of complement-fixing activity and cross-idiotypes of rheumatoid factors in idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia

Abstract The complement-fixing activity, specificity for IgG, and cross-idiotypes of rheumatoid factors (RF) isolated from the mixed cryoglobulins of nine patients with idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia were determined. All were IgMκ and fixed complement. The RF complement-fixing activity did not correlate with hypocomplementemia or disease manifestations. The majority of RF belonged to the same cross-idiotype group. The RF from two of three patients with predominantly neurologic manifestations did not have any of the known cross-idiotypes and reacted better with rabbit IgG than with human IgG. The patients with neurologic manifestations also differed in that their serum complement was normal.
Bridge to cardiac transplantation: comparison of LVAD versus inotropic support

isolated RV dysfunction and severe hemodynamic compromise at our institution. Overall survival, duration of mechanical support, postRVAD hemodynamics, and RV function measured by echocardiography were analyzed. Results: Post-cardiotomy RV failure developed in patients after coronary artery bypass surgery alone or in combination with valve surgery (12), valvular surgery alone (5), aortic surgery (6), heart or lung transplantation (3), and pulmonary endarterectomy (4). Mean age was 58 15 years and 17 (57%) were female. Initial operation was emergent in 22 (73%) cases. Centrifugal pumps were used in 29 and Abiomed pump in one patient. Overall, 17 (57%) patients died on the assist device: 3 from sepsis, 2 from stroke, and 12 from an inability to wean from the RV device. RVAD was successfully weaned in 13 (43%) patients with a median duration of 5 days (range 2-8). Ten survived to hospital discharge. At post-RVAD removal, mean pulmonary artery pressure was 25 6 mmHg, cardiac output was 4 2L, and central venous pressure was 16 3 mmHg. Echocardiogram after RVAD removal showed normal RV function in 2 patients and 11 demonstrated improvement of RV hypokinesis. Our most recent experience, from 1997 to present, demonstrated an improved postoperative survival of 44% compared to 18% from the five preceding years. Conclusion: Post-cardiotomy RV failure patients requiring mechanical support continue to have high mortality. Survival has improved over the last several years due to advances in pharmacological treatment and RVAD support. For patients successfully weaned from the RVAD, residual RV dysfunction is compatible with survival. More liberal use of RV mechanical support may be indicated for patients with acute RV failure.
Metal Stimulation and Municipal Digester Thermophilic/Mesophilic Activity

Biomass from thermophilic and mesophilic digesters (four temperature-phased anaerobic digesters and one phased thermophilic digester) was assayed for potential methane production rate increases resulting from nutrient (Ni, Co, and Fe) addition. Furthermore, digester operations and biomass activities were compared. The majority (77%) of biomass samples benefited from nutrients, with propionate and acetate utilization rates increasing as much as 50 and 35%, respectively, after nutrient addition. Propionate utilization rates were more frequently stimulated by nutrient addition, demonstrating increased methane production rates of from 14 to 50% upon nutrient amendment. Others have observed difficulty achieving low propionate concentrations in municipal thermophilic digesters, especially at lower retention times. Trace nutrient supplementation is one method to increase propionate and acetate utilization in some municipal thermophilic as well as mesophilic digesters.
Invasive pancreatic function testing: a survey of methods and number of procedures performed in the United States

Invasive pancreatic function testing: a survey of methods and number of procedures performed in the United States
TRANSACTION COSTS, REGULATION, AND SUBCONTRACTING AT NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS

Abstract Monitoring problems, firm-specific assets, and regulation influence the relative costs in a firm's make-or-buy decision. At nuclear power plants, legal limits on radiation exposure are thought to be a significant factor in determining which tasks to subcontract. In an examination of 30 tasks at nuclear power plants from 1978 to 1986, contract employees are more often hired for tasks with higher radiation exposure, where monitoring is difficult, and where firm-specific assets are important.
Detecting perfect powers in essentially linear time

This paper (1) gives complete details of an algorithm to compute approximate kth roots; (2) uses this in an algorithm that, given an integer n > 1, either writes n as a perfect power or proves that n is not a perfect power; (3) proves, using Loxton's theorem on multiple linear forms in logarithms, that this perfect-power decomposition algorithm runs in time (log n) 1+o(1) .
Optical design of astronomical telescopes with large-scale computational methods by distributed processing on local area networks

The downhill simplex and simulated annealing algorithms are powerful design tools for optical systems that do not yield to analytic methods of optimization. Use of these numerical techniques have been frustrated by the shortage of computational resources available to investigators. To tap the latent computational resources available in even moderate sized local area networks (LAN's), we have developed software to operate flexibly, a LAN composed of UNIX workstations as a distributed processor for optical design optimization. We have developed a general purpose remote procedure call generator and subroutine library which allow simple specification and use of existing subprograms as remote procedures. This software provides a mechanism for modifying or developing large scientific and engineering applications with inherent parallelism for distributed processing on LAN's. We discuss the performance, bandwidth, and adaptability of this software as applied to the problem of grazing incidence optics design using the simulated annealing algorithm.