cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound measurement of anterior neck soft tissue thickness and its correlation with obstructive sleep apnea

Background : Excessive fat tissue deposition anterolaterally to the upper airway has been identified as a contributing factor to the development of OSA. 1 Objective : To explore the relationship of soft tissue thickness of the anterior neck, measured by ultrasonound, with the presence and severity of OSA. Study and Methods : Cross-Sectional Study. Ultrasound measurements of anterior neck thickness at the vocal cords(VC), thyroid isthmus(TI) and suprasternal notch(SN) were assessed in 106 patients in both supine and sitting positions. BMI, Neck circumference (NC) and Modified Mallampati score (MM) were obtained. All patients underwent a one-night polysomnogram where presence and severity of OSA were determined. Results : Ultrasound measurements of the anterior neck thickness at all levels were found to be positively correlated with AHI both in supine and sitting positions(table 1). In a multivariate linear regression analysis, anterior neck thickness at the level of the TI measured during supine(22.85 +/-9.41, 95% CI 4.18-41.51; p=0.017) and sitting (18.81 +/-8.29, 95% CI 2.36-35.26; p=0.025) positions remained positively and significantly correlated with AHI after correcting for age, BMI, NC, MM and gender. Conclusions : In our study group, ultrasound measurement of anterior soft tissue thickness at the level of the thyroid isthmus appears to be positively correlated with AHI. References : 1. Mortimore I.L. et al.AJRCCM 1998;157:280–3.
Capillary penetration around a hydrophobic filling material

Abstract Experiments on the penetration of an aqueous solution containing 14 C around wax fillings in extracted teeth were performed. Quantitative measurements of the relative amounts of penetration were assessed with a liquid scintillation spectrometer. Statistical tests were used to draw conclusions from the data. The evidence indicated that water penetration was prevented by coating the surface of the cavity with wax and using a wax filling. The development of a hydrophobic dental filling material is proposed.
Chiral symmetry at finite temperatures and densities in (2+1)-dimensional QED

Abstract We study finite-temperature and density effects on dynamical mass generation in QED 3 with many flavors. We find that at high temperatures and densities chiral symmetry is restored. The critical temperature and chemical potential are proportional to the dynamical fermion mass at zero temperature ( m ). We compute the ratios T c m and μ c m which are pure numbers independent of the number of flavors.
Differential Modulation of Brain Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Function by Cytisine, Varenicline, and Two Novel Bispidine Compounds: Emergent Properties of a Hybrid Molecule

Partial agonist therapies for the treatment of nicotine addiction and dependence depend on both agonistic and antagonistic effects of the ligands, and side effects associated with other nAChRs greatly limit the efficacy of nicotinic partial agonists. We evaluated the in vitro pharmacological properties of four partial agonists, two current smoking cessation drugs, varenicline and cytisine, and two novel bispidine compounds, BPC and BMSP, by using defined nAChR subtypes expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and human embryonic kidney 293 cells. Similar to varenicline and cytisine, BPC and BMSP are partial agonists of α4β2 nAChRs, although BMSP produced very little activation of these receptors. Unlike varenicline and cytisine, BPC and BMSP showed desired low activity. BPC produced mecamylamine-sensitive steady-state activation of α4* receptors that was not evident with BMSP. We evaluated the modulation of α4*- and α7-mediated responses in rat lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) neurons and hippocampal stratum radiatum (SR) interneurons, respectively. The LGN neurons were sensitive to a very low concentration of varenicline, and the SR interneuron responses were also sensitive to varenicline at a submicromolar concentration. Although 300 nM BPC strongly inhibited the ACh-evoked responses of LGN neurons, it did not inhibit the α7 currents of SR interneurons. Similar results were observed with 300 nM BMSP. Additionally, the bispidine compounds were efficacious in the mouse tail suspension test, demonstrating that they affect receptors in the brain when delivered systemically. Our data indicate that BPC and BMSP are promising α4β2* partial agonists for pharmacotherapeutics.
Inverse colloidal crystal microfiltration membranes

Abstract Uniform pore size, high porosity membranes are important for applications such as microfiltration and ultrafiltration, as well as for use as membrane adsorbers. In this work, uniform pore size, high porosity microfiltration membranes were developed using three-dimensionally ordered macroporous templates. A membrane casting cell was designed for self-assembly of silica spheres into a colloidal crystal template. The resulting close-packed colloidal crystal was infiltrated with a reactive monomer solution. After polymerization, the silica spheres were etched away, resulting in an inverse colloidal crystal (ICC) membrane with high porosity and uniform pores that are highly interconnected. ICC membranes have been fabricated with a range of pore sizes and thicknesses. The membrane casting cell facilitates easy variation of membrane thickness. The membrane pore size is varied by changing the diameter of the silica spheres used to prepare the colloidal crystal template. By changing the composition of the reactive monomer solution, membranes have been fabricated with different hydrophilicities. Following synthesis, the ICC membranes were tested in a commercially available stirred cell. Particle fractionation was studied in normal flow filtration experiments. For bi-disperse particle suspensions, significant passage of particles smaller than the membrane pore size was observed if the ratio of large to small particles was around 14.
Relating transverse ray error and light fields in plenoptic camera images

Plenoptic cameras have emerged in recent years as a technology for capturing light field data in a single snapshot. A conventional digital camera can be modified with the addition of a lenslet array to create a plenoptic camera. The camera image is focused onto the lenslet array. The lenslet array is placed over the camera sensor such that each lenslet forms an image of the exit pupil onto the sensor. The resultant image is an array of circular exit pupil images, each corresponding to the overlying lenslet. The position of the lenslet encodes the spatial information of the scene, whereas as the sensor pixels encode the angular information for light incident on the lenslet. The 4D light field is therefore described by the 2D spatial information and 2D angular information captured by the plenoptic camera. In aberration theory, the transverse ray error relates the pupil coordinates of a given ray to its deviation from the ideal image point in the image plane and is consequently a 4D function as well. We demonstrate a technique for modifying the traditional transverse ray error equations to recover the 4D light field of a general scene. In the case of a well corrected optical system, this light field is easily related to the depth of various objects in the scene. Finally, the effects of sampling with both the lenslet array and the camera sensor on the 4D light field data are analyzed to illustrate the limitations of such systems.
Ab Initio Computational Studies of Heterocycloalkynes: Structures, Natural Bond Orders, Ring Strain Energies, and Isomerizations of Cyclic Iminoboranes and Iminoalanes†

Ab initio calculations of series of cyclic iminoboranes and iminoalanes show that they adopt angularly distorted structures compared to the isoelectronic cycloalkynes. Natural bond order analyses indicate that the larger ring iminoboranes contain BN triple bonds, but the smaller ring iminoboranes and all the iminoalanes contain MN double bonds and a lone pair on the nitrogen atom. Group equivalent calculations confirm that cyclic iminoboranes and iminoalanes contain less ring strain energy than the corresponding cycloalkynes, but the data do not distinguish between doubly and triply bonded systems. Examination of the rearrangements of isomeric azacycloalkane borines to cyclic iminoboranes shows that they are exothermic, with moderate activation barriers. Thus, a way by which the heterocycloalkynes might be synthesized is suggested.
Mammalian tropoelastin: multiple domains of the protein define an evolutionarily divergent amino acid sequence.

Abstract We have recently derived the complete amino acid sequence of rat tropoelastin from a series of overlapping cDNA clones. Comparison of this protein sequence to bovine and human tropoelastin has revealed significant differences in the rates of evolutionary divergence of the various domains of tropoelastin. The overall rate of divergence of the hydrophobic domains of tropoelastin was twice as fast as the cross-link domains of the protein. Certain hydrophobic domains, however, are as conserved as cross-link regions, particularly the hydrophobic sequence coded for by exon 33, the only exon subject to alternate usage in all three mammalian species and the most conserved domain in rat, bovine and human tropoelastin. This conservation of sequence strongly suggests a more complex function for the hydrophobic region encoded by exon 33, beyond the elastic recoil characteristic of all hydrophobic domains of tropoelastin. A comparison of average rates of divergence of hydrophobic and cross-link domains of tropoelastin to functionallydefined domains of other structural proteins, such as collagen, has also revealed that overall, tropoelastin is a highly divergent amino acid sequence, comparable to proteins such as globin and the fibrino-peptides.
Relationship between airway phagocyte CD11b and CD14 expression and ozone-induced airway inflammation in human volunteers

Abstract Rationale Inhaled ozone, like endotoxin, induces airway neutrophilia in humans. We examined whether ozone-induced inflammation modifies airway macrophage mCD14 expression, and whether constitutive CD11b expression on circulating phagocytes predicts the magnitude of the neutrophil response following ozone exposure. Methods Twenty two (N=22) volunteers underwent controlled exposure to ozone (400ppb, 2hr) and to filtered air. Induced sputum and peripheral blood were collected before and after exposure. Results Induced sputum revealed marked neutrophilia, and flow cytometric analysis showed that mCD14 expression on airway macrophages and monocytes was significantly increased following ozone exposure. A significant and positive correlation (R=0.89, p=0.002) was found between baseline CD11b expression on blood phagocytes and ozone-induced airway neutrophilia. Conclusions Inhaled ozone enhances the expression of mCD14 on airway phagocytes in human volunteers and circulating CD11b predicts the magnitude of the airway neutrophil response following ozone exposure. CD11b may be a useful biomarker for predicting susceptibility to neutrophilic inflammation in the airway due to pollutants.
iPhone Apps for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): A Content Analysis

This study examined the content of current iPhone cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) apps to determine their adherence to 2010 American Heart Association (AHA) CPR Guidelines. Fifty apps were reviewed to determine presence and absence of individual guidelines. Data were statistically analyzed to determine app adherence to AHA guidelines related to cost and consumer ratings as well as which guidelines were most frequently missed. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed statistically significant variation in app adherence along the price continuum. An additional ANOVA comparing consumer ratings and app adherence reported statistically significant differences in app content along the consumer rating scale. These findings have important implications for public health professionals and potential areas for further study and improvement will be discussed.
Early lymphocyte reconstitution is associated with improved transplant outcome after cord blood transplantation.

Abstract Background aims Previous studies have shown that rapid recovery of the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) is associated with improved transplant outcomes after related and unrelated donor allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). No consistent association has been reported between lymphocyte recovery and transplant outcome after cord blood transplantation (CBT) Methods We reviewed the records of 40 consecutive CBT patients at our institution to determine the impact of lymphocyte recovery on transplant outcome Results The majority of patients (83%) received CBT for hematologic malignancies. Patients with ALC ≥150/μL at 30 days post-CBT had decreased non-relapse mortality (NRM) ( P =0.011) and improved survival ( P =0.013) compared with ALC P =0.011). ALC was positively correlated with the nucleated cell dose and inversely correlated with the patient's age. There was no relationship between disease risk, type of conditioning regimen, anti-thymocyte globulin and number of cord units on ALC recovery Conclusions Our results indicate that ALC 30 days post-CBT is a surrogate for engraftment, and that low ALC ( ex vivo -expanded natural killer cells using adoptive immunotherapy, which might improve outcome after CBT.
Tests of a new paper display for radiology images

Distributing a radiographic image with the verbal report would help to avoid misunderstanding and would aid the referring physician in understanding better the severity of the disease described. With magnetic resonance imaging it is customary in our practice to distribute a copy of the examination to the referring physician. Distributing a film copy of the image is expensive. Based on our initial experience with the Scitex paper printer, we believe that this system provides a paper image of sufficient quality that it would be acceptable as a referrer's copy. Paper copies are cheaper to produce and can be more easily filed with the remainder of the patient's paper based medical record. This presentation discusses the printing method employed by the Scitex printer, demonstrates comparisons between Scitex and laser print images, and discusses the current problems of interfacing the printer to image acquisition devices. As we develop our image management and communication system (IMAC), we anticipate that a need for hard copy images will remain. We discuss the role that we believe this paper printer serves in an IMAC film independent system.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Reproductive biology: fatty link to fertility.

A short delay in the attachment of embryos to the wall of the womb during early pregnancy adversely affects later developmental processes. New evidence reinforces the need for lipids to regulate this event.
A Systems-Based Approach to Intelligence Reform

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 prompted the most comprehensive changes to the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) since its creation via the National Security Act of 1947. Recent structural and organizational reforms, such as efforts to enhance information sharing and recruit speakers of hard-target languages, have also triggered new challenges to successful transformation. In light of the systemic problems facing the IC, this paper argues that systems engineering, a discipline increasingly useful in organizational change, offers a more efficient, holistic approach to the intelligence reform process than the status quo. Systems engineering views the IC as an integrated and interdependent system, whose value is primarily realized through the relationship among its components. The author makes the case that a systems-based approach to intelligence reform can enhance effectiveness while reducing the risk of unintended consequences. This article is available in Journal of Strategic Security: http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/jss/vol5/iss1/9 Journal of Strategic Security Volume 5 Issue 1 2012, pp. 63-84 DOI: 10.5038/1944-0472.5.1.5 Journal of Strategic Security (c) 2012 ISSN: 1944-0464 eISSN: 1944-0472 63 A Systems-Based Approach to Intelligence Reform Austen Givens Utica College, New York
Design and Characterization of Micropost-Filled Reactor to Minimize Pressure Drop While Maximizing Surface-Area-to-Volume-Ratio

Micropost-filled reactors are commonly found in many micro total analysis system applications because of their high surface area for the surrounding volume. Design rules for micropost-filled reactors are presented here to optimize the performance of the micro-preconcentrator, which is a component of a micro gas chromatography system. The dimensionless figure of merit is proposed to be used to minimize the pressure drop while maximizing the surface-area-to-volume-ratio for a given overall channel geometry of the micropost-filled preconcentrator. Two independent models from the literature are used to predict the pressure drop across the micropost-filled channels for low Reynolds number flows. The pressure drop can be expressed solely as a function of a design parameter, β = a/s, a ratio of a radius of each post and a half-spacing between two adjacent posts. Pressure drop measurements are performed to experimentally corroborate the pressure drop model and the optimization using the dimensionless figure of merit. As the number of microposts; for a given β increases in a given channel size, a greater surface-area-to-volume-ratio will occur for a fixed pressure drop. Therefore, increasing the arrays of posts with smaller diameters and spacing will optimize the microreactor for higher surface area for a given flow resistance, at least until Knudsen flow begins to dominate.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Utility of Suspended Solid Measurements for Storm-Water Runoff Treatment

In this paper alternative solutions are presented to solve problems associated with the measurement of total suspended solids (TSS) in storm-water runoff. Results revealed that the accuracy of TSS measurement is largely related to sample representativeness, particle size distribution (PSD), sampling pipette position, and sample mixing. In general, when the PSD in the runoff was mostly larger than 75 μm , the most accurate and reproducible results were obtained when samples were collected from a position of mid-depth and midway between the walls of the beaker and the vortex and mixed at speeds in the range of 600–700 rpm . For runoff samples with a PSD smaller than 75 μm , mixing at a higher rpm is not a significant factor. As long as the PSD in the TSS subsample is representative of the original sample, a strong correlation between TSS and suspended solid concentration can be achieved. The results showed that density was largely correlated with the organic content of the particles, and, in general, smalle...
Assessment of fracture healing by spectral analysis.

The ‘in vivo’ impulse response of long bones was investigated with the object of assessing the reliability of data taken under various conditions. The ultimate goal of the research is to develop a non-invasive method of monitoring the healing of long bones. A spectrum analyser was developed specifically for this investigation and is presented here.
Contribution of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor to exercise-induced vasodilation in health and hypercholesterolemia

The role of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in either the healthy circulation or in those with hypercholesterolemia is unknown. In healthy and hypercholesterolemic subjects, we measured forearm blood flow (FBF) using strain-gauge plethysmography at rest, during graded handgrip exercise, and after sodium nitroprusside infusion. Measurements were repeated after l-NMMA, tetraethylammonium (TEA), and combined infusions. At rest, l-NMMA infusion reduced FBF in healthy but not hypercholesterolemic subjects. At peak exercise, vasodilation was lower in hypercholesterolemic compared to healthy subjects (274% vs 438% increase in FBF, p=0.017). TEA infusion reduced exercise-induced vasodilation in both healthy and hypercholesterolemic subjects (27%, p<0.0001 and −20%, p<0.0001, respectively). The addition of l-NMMA to TEA further reduced FBF in healthy (–14%, p=0.012) but not in hypercholesterolemic subjects, indicating a reduced nitric oxide and greater EDHF-mediated contribution to exercise-induc...
Extensions of Lemke's algorithm for the linear complementarity problem

Lemke's algorithm for the linear complementarity problem fails when a desired pivot is not blocked. A projective transformation overcomes this difficulty. The transformation is performed computationally by adjoining a new row to a schema of the problem and pivoting on the element in this row and the unit constant column. Two new algorithms result; some conditions for their success are discussed.
Light scattering induced by turbulent flow

Light scattering induced by turbulent flow in seawater has been studied and the effect of seawater turbulence on the propagation of a collimated light beam has been characterized. Our approach is to describe the interaction of light with inhomogeneities in the refractive index (IRI) by solving Maxwell's equations. This set of equations is converted into the parabolized Helmholtz equation in the case of light propagating through water with IRI. We characterize the light scattering within a water parcel by the volume scattering function (VSF). Field measurements of small-angle VSF exhibit a sharp peak which is orders of magnitude greater than that obtained from either laboratory measurements or Mie calculations for suspended particles. Our computer simulations show that the volume scattering function obtained is indeed characterized by an exponential decrease with scattering angle and is in quantitative agreement with in situ observations in the case of high temperature variance dissipation, (chi) . It appears that 0(1 degree(s)) is the upper limit of turbulent induced light scattering in the ocean.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
An investigation of vortex rings from bursting bubbles

Abstract The air ejected from a bursting bubble forms a vortex ring as it rises. This process is believed to contribute to sea-to-air particle transfer since the vortex ring may entrain film drops and lift them above the water surface. The orientation, maximum height, and ejection speed of such vortex rings were studied from bubbles bursting in distilled water. They were made visible using the white mist made by frozen carbon dioxide in water. It is shown that the speed of these naturally produced vortex rings decays exponentially with time, and linearly with distance. For the roughly 3 to 6 mm diameter bubbles used in this study, vortex ring maximum height varies from 1 to 5 cm, respectively. The ejection speed of vortex rings is on the order of 80 cm/s in this bubble size range. A bubble may release as many as three vortex rings, but the single and double ring patterns are shown to be the most common.
Multi-hole defect photonic crystals with enhanced surface area for biosensing applications

Multi-hole defect (MHD) photonic crystal cavities functionalized with in situ synthesized DNA bioreceptors are demonstrated for biosensing applications. By significantly increasing light interaction with target biomolecules in the MHD region, improved detection sensitivity is achieved.
Baby, it's cold outside!

In this issue of Blood , Terrier and colleagues report on the largest cohort of patients with type II mixed cryoglobulinemia.[1][1] Steroids and rituximab appear to be the most effective therapy. More than 100 patients were treated with rituximab and almost 100 patients were treated with an
Infliximab retreatment in adults and children with Crohn’s disease: risk factors for the development of delayed severe systemic reaction

Infliximab retreatment in adults and children with Crohn's disease: risk factors for the development of delayed severe systemic reaction
Familial clustering of symptoms and disruptive behaviors in multiplex families with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

ABSTRACT Objective To examine familial clustering of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ADHD subtypes, symptoms, and oppositional behaviors in affected sibling pairs (ASPs) and their parents. Method One hundred thirty-two ASPs, ranging in age from 5 to 25 years and ascertained through clinic and volunteer referrals, were examined for DSM-IV ADHD subtypes, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder (CD) with the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime version (K-SADS-PL). Two hundred fifty-six parents in these families were assessed by means of the SADS-Lifetime version, Modified for the Study of Anxiety Disorders, Updated for DSM-IV (SADS-LA-IV), and the Behavioral Disorders supplement of the K-SADS-PL to determine ADHD, ODD, and CD. Results Fifty-five percent of families ascertained through an ASP have at least one parent with a lifetime diagnosis of ADHD. The frequency of ADHD in at least one parent was higher in families with at least one affected girl (63%) than in families with only affected boys (45%) ( p = .02). There was no evidence that affected siblings or parents within ASP families showed similar patterns of ADHD symptoms, such as ADHD subtype classification. In contrast, CD significantly clustered in ASP families. Conclusions The sex difference in prevalence of ADHD among ASPs is consistent with a model of inheritance in which girls require a greater loading of familial influences to develop ADHD. The lack of familial clustering of ADHD symptoms within ASP families suggests that hyperactive and inattentive symptoms reflect common familial underpinnings and not unique familial effects. In contrast, CD seems to reflect unique familial underpinnings distinct from those underlying ADHD.
Church service roles and anticipated support among older Mexican Americans

The purpose of this study is to see how feelings of anticipated support arise in church. Anticipated support refers to the belief that coreligionists will provide assistance in the future if the need arises. This model contains the following hypothesis: (1) people who affiliate with conservative Protestant congregations will be more deeply committed to their faith, (2) individuals who are more committed to their faith will attend church more frequently, (3) people who go to church more often will be more likely to occupy church service roles, (4) those who occupy church service roles will feel more highly valued by their coreligionists, (5) individuals who feel they are valued highly by fellow church members will receive more emotional support from them, and (6) people who receive more emotional support at church will have stronger anticipated support beliefs. Data from a nationwide survey of older Mexican Americans support these hypotheses.
Pediatric heart, heart-lung, and lung transplantation: Preoperative management

Abstract Before heart transplantation, comprehensive care is focused on aggressive treatment of heart failure with oral drugs. Intensive intravenous therapy is necessary in some children, and mechanical support of ventilation is required in extreme cases. Prophylactic anticoagulation is recommended in patients with severe ventricular dysfunction. In all patients, general well being and nutrition must be reevaluated frequently, and comprehensive family education and psychosocial support is essential. Outpatient care for children awaiting heart-lung or lung transplantations is similar, although those with cystic fibrosis require more extensive treatment of acute infections.
Effects of Diet on Growth and Survival of Larval Walleyes

Abstract The effects of diet quality on larval walleye (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum) growth and survival are described. The cyclopoid copepod Diacyclops thomasi consumed larval walleyes within 10 min at dense copepod concentrations and within 1 d at lower densities (500 organisms/L). At initial feeding, larval walleyes consumed both copepods and cladocerans 500-1,100 μm total length. Postlarva-II walleyes fed four different diets (minnow larvae, brine shrimp, and two size grades of zooplankton) for 6 d averaged 4.00 mg, 3.48 mg, 2.23 mg, and 1.92 mg (dry weight), respectively. No appreciable differences in survival (70-85%) were observed on these diets. During the first 3 weeks of life, the survival of walleye larvae at optimal conditions of diet, temperature, light, space, and density was 71% (range, 52-87%). The combined influence of higher water temperatures and smaller food organisms stimulated initial feeding 3 d sooner than previously reported for larval walleyes. Sufficient food and higher tempera...
A method of representing the nonisothermal effectiveness factor for fixed bed calculations

A parametric representation of the effectiveness factor for a first-order, nonisothermal irreversible reaction in a catalyst pellet has geen devised that amply covers the realistic range of parameters for the exothermic case. Given the Thiele modulus, Prater temperature, and dimensionless activation energy, the effectiveness factor can be recovered in about 1/1000 sec. (CDC 6600) to an accuracy of better than 5% over most of the range. When heat and mass transfer resistance at the surface is added the time required is about 0.03 sec. This makes fixed bed calculations more than 50 times faster than would otherwise be possible.
The Six Remaining Facts: Social Studies Content Knowledge and Elementary Preservice Teachers

Abstract This article explores and examines the social studies content knowledge that preservice teachers have about commonly studies historical figures. The data indicate that preservice teachers often have shallow and decontextualized understandings of historical individuals such as Christopher Columbus and Helen Keller, despite their being repeatedly studied in the preservice teachers' educational careers. The content knowledge gaps are not the significant finding, however; rather, it is the process of critical inquiry that speaks to the notion of human citizenship.
Can an aggregate assessment reflect the dynamics of a spatially structured stock? Snow crab in the eastern Bering Sea as a case study

Abstract The snow crab population in the eastern Bering Sea is panmictic, but it is spatially structured by inferred ontogenetic migrations, and fishing pressure is often spatially restricted by sea ice. This spatial structure is ignored when stock assessments are conducted, yet it is unclear if this omission influences management outcomes. We describe a process for evaluating the influence of spatial structure on the performance of stock assessments. This involves developing a spatial model which includes spatially explicit trends in recruitment, fishing mortality and rates of movement. The model is over-parameterized but provides good fits to the data for snow crab. It was used to simulate data sets to test the ability of a non-spatially structured (aggregate) assessment method in terms of estimating trends in abundance and fishing pressure in the presence of spatial structure. The aggregate assessment method performed well if survey selectivity was well known, but was unable to reliably represent the dynamics of the population without data on survey selectivity. Additional data on movement from tagging studies or winter surveys would be useful to improve the understanding of the influence of spatial structure on snow crab in the eastern Bering Sea.
PhaseQuant: A tool for quantifying tomographic data sets of geological specimens

Micro-CT is becoming an increasingly important tool for non-destructive analysis of rock specimens. One of the major challenges with micro-CT is to extract quantitative information as opposed to qualitative information from the datasets. In this paper, PhaseQuant - a new software tool for processing a micro-CT image stack - is introduced. PhaseQuant is an open source freeware distributed as an ImageJ plugin. PhaseQuant is a simple and easy-to-use software tool that comprises phase segmentation, phase measurement, validation and density calibration modules which together enable the user to follow a repeatable experimentation protocol for quantifying phases and components from a micro-CT image stack of rock specimens. The techniques used in the software tool are outlined in this paper along with some illustrative examples of application of the software to meteorites and rock cores. Detailed instructions on how to use the code are available on the Internet.^4
Loop Splitting for High Performance Computers

This paper discusses program transformations and algorithm modifications that reduce execution time of iterative methods for solv ing partial differential equations on high performance computers. Tech niques typically associated with par allel computers turn out to be essen tial to obtain optimal performance on current superscalar uniprocessors.
Community college as liminal space

Contemplative teaching can offer both teachers and students a middle way between two reigning fundamentalisms: the secularist one of nonadvocacy, relativism, and equivocation and the forced univocity of fundamentalism. Its antidote is the depth, relatedness, and even transcendence of a contemplative teaching style.
Analysis and design of high electron mobility transistors for THz signal generation

Generation of terahertz signals using solid-state devices has yet to be demonstrated above 1 THz. This paper presents modeling and optimization of a plasma mode High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) for operation beyond 3 THz. In designing this structure, we examine geometrical and electrical parameters and their impact on the resonance frequency. Preliminary results show that as much as 20% of the plasma mode energy can be coupled to free space radiation by optimizing the 2DEG channel modulation and grating periods. This should be compared to efficiencies at the low single digits for other solid state devices.
Major clinical events after coronary stenting. The multicenter registry of acute and elective Gianturco-Roubin stent placement. The Gianturco-Roubin Intracoronary Stent Investigator Group.

BACKGROUND Abrupt vessel closure and early reocclusion remain the principal vascular events underlying early recurrent ischemia complicating elective percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). Intracoronary stenting has been used to circumvent emergency bypass surgery after acute vessel closure and as an adjunct for the elective treatment of restenosis. The initial multicenter experience with the Gianturco-Roubin stent is presented, and predictors for early recurrent ischemic events are identified. METHODS AND RESULTS Data accrued from 639 serial patients undergoing emergency stenting for abrupt closure (n = 415; 65%) or elective deployment for restenosis (n = 224; 35%) from October 1989 through May 1991 were analyzed. The incidence of subsequent ischemic events, including death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and bypass surgery referral within 90 days of the procedure, was higher after acute deployment (20%) compared with elective stenting (9%; P = .0004). Although mortality within the two cohorts was the same (3%; P = NS), there were significant differences in the incidence of nonfatal myocardial infarction (5% versus 0.5%; P = .002) and bypass surgery (12% versus 6%; P = .02) between the acutely and electively stented patients, respectively. These events were significantly more common when the stent was undersized to the target vessel diameter (stent:artery ratio for event, 0.95 +/- 0.14 versus no event, 1.04 +/- 0.22; P = .0001) or when there was less expansion of the lesion by the deployed device (stent-to-lesion diameter ratio for event, 6.6 +/- 9.2 versus no event, 11.0 +/- 21.4; P = .0001). In a stepwise logistic regression model, acute stenting (odds ratio [OR], 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 2.4), multivessel disease (OR, 1.4; CI, 1.1 to 1.8), larger target lesion diameter (OR, 2.1; CI, 1.4 to 3.2), larger target vessel (OR, 2.9; CI, 1.7 to 4.7), and smaller stent size (OR, 6.1; CI, 3.0 to 12.3) were independent predictors of early, recurrent ischemic events. The presence of thrombus was associated with a higher event rate after elective stenting (OR, 2.3; CI, 1.06 to 5.4) but was not associated with a higher early event rate after acute stenting. CONCLUSIONS Early ischemic events are more common after acute stenting for abrupt or threatened closure than after elective deployment. These events may be avoided with careful attention to morphometric characteristics to avoid undersizing the stent to the target vessel and ensure adequate lesion expansion.
Forecasting Methods for HIV/AIDS and Aging

Recent treatment advances suggest that AIDS may be changing from a rapidly lethal,acute disease into a chronic disease process with lengthy periods of remission.Stochastic compartment models can describe AIDS progression, remission, andoverall survival. Such models can combine multiple data sources to estimate transitions through intermediate, unobserved disease states. Age/time AIDS mortality maybe combined with age/time AIDS incidence to generate an "observed" health eventdistribution, using maximum likelihood estimation. The models can project the futurebehavior of AIDS in an aging population. Transitions among intermediate diseasestates (i.e., components of the disease's "natural" and "treatment-altered" history) canbe evaluated as time-varying functions that reflect treatment efficacy. For example,the introduction of protease inhibitors to therapy with two nucleoside analoguessignificantly slows transitions between disease states. Persons infected, but success-fully treated, may develop organ damage,...
Permanent Gastrostomy As a Solution to Some Nutritional Problems in the Elderly

The number of elderly patients living in institutions is increasing. Many of them are unable to maintain an adequate nutritional status because of: 1) neurologic deficits that preclude normal swallowing; 2) obstruction of the upper gastrointestinal tract; or 3) a systemic disease that has produced profound anorexia. This report presents the data on 106 permanent-feeding gastrostomies, performed with low morbidity and low mortality. Use of a gastrointestinal anastomotic stapling device greatly facilitated the operation. The permanent gastrostomy offers an effective means of providing adequate nutrition for elderly patients who otherwise cannot maintain the necessary nutritional status.
Thermodynamics and kinetics of gelation in the poly(γ-benzyl α,l-glutamate)—benzyl alcohol system

Abstract Rigid rod-like liquid-crystalline polymers are currently in high demand because of their high modulus and rigidity, and good orientation properties. Gelation is an important phenomenon encountered in lyotropic solutions of polymeric liquid crystals, and this is manifested in fibre spinning and many biological systems. We will focus our attention on the behaviour of gels formed by the synthetic polypeptide, poly(γ-benzyl α , l -glutamate) (PBLG), in benzyl alcohol (BA). More basic than determining the phase boundaries are the questions concerning the definition and identification of the gel phase and the molecular origins of such a phase, along with the added complexity of the dynamics in each phase. In this work, we attempt to make a systematic study of each phase for the PBLG-BA system, using rheological, thermal and light scattering experiments.
Experimental Implementation and Capabilities of Fourier Transform Hydrodynamic Modulation Voltammetry

Reported is the first experimental implementation of Fourier transform hydrodynamic modulation voltammetry (FTHMV). Two different types of experiments are performed to illustrate the capabilities of the technique. First, the analytical utility of FTHMV is demonstrated by applying the technique to study the frequency response characteristics of mass‐transfer limited reduction of 2 mM ferric ion at a speed‐modulated rotating disk electrode. It is shown that FTHMV, performed using a square wave rotation rate modulation, is a fast and accurate method for characterizing the system's frequency response in a single experiment, and thus provides an excellent alternative to the common practice of performing many experiments one frequency at a time. The second application of FTHMV reported here is the analysis of nonlinearities in the mass‐transfer limited current to a rotating disk electrode modulated at a single frequency. We show that the magnitude of nonlinear harmonics induced by a sinusoidal rotation rate modulation has a power law form, where the nonlinear signal is proportional to the amplitude of the rotation rate modulation raised to the power of the harmonic component. Also discussed are the implications of time domain signal processing for improving the signal‐to‐noise performance of FTHMV.
Hall Effect and Specific Resistance of Silver Films

Hall Effect and Specific Resistance of Silver Films, 200 to 20 \ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\mu}. Thick.---In agreement with previous results, the specific resistance increased more and more rapidly with decreasing thickness, becoming infinite for about 20 \ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\mu}. On the other hand the Hall coefficient was found to be the same in the films as in the bulk metal. The thicknesses were computed from the weight of silver in each film, assuming the density that of the bulk metal. The films were obtained by chemical deposition.Theory of Electrical Conduction in Thin Films.---After discussing various proposed theories in the light of the above results, it is concluded that these and other facts are in harmony with the simple conception that the film consists of granules, each having the properties of the bulk metal, and that conduction occurs only along strings of granules in contact.Brashear Method of Depositing Silver Films.---Exceptionally hard films whose resistance, instead of decreasing, increased slightly with time, were obtained by using about four times the amount of sodium hydroxide specified.
The Internet and the Truth about Science

Even though sophisticated discussion of the nature of scientific claims is taking place in the academy, public school teachers of science and mathematics may harbor naive assumptions about the way that scientific processes function to construct the "truth." Reluctant to change their prior assumptions about science, such teachers may become vulnerable to information technologies (including "low-tech" media such as textbooks and films) that construe science as a collection of facts. An on-line lesson about constructivism provided a forum in which a group of teachers revealed well-established epistemologies seemingly inimical to the principles of conceptual change teaching. Further, the strategies used by the teachers to quell a potentially interesting debate provided preliminary evidence of differences in the motives for communication in virtual, in contrast to real, communities.
Reactions of bis(pentafluorophenyl)methylsilane with organolithium and grignard reagents

Abstract Bis(pentafluorophenyl)methylsilane (I) reacts with primary alkyllithium and Grignard reagents to give high yields of the pentafluorophenylmetallic species. The influence of steric factors upon the course of the reactions with a series of RLi and RMgX compounds including PhMgBr, i-PrMgBr and t-BuLi are considered.
Disparities in myocardial infarction case fatality rates among the elderly: the 20-year Medicare experience.

Background Case fatality rates after acute myocardial infarction (MI) have decreased markedly over the last 3 decades. Some subgroups may have benefited more than others, but this hypothesis has not been evaluated in a large nationally representative cohort. Accordingly, we sought to assess long-term temporal trends in mortality after hospitalization for MI and to assess whether these trends differ by sex, race, or age in a cohort of elderly patients. Methods We studied a cohort of 4.9 million Medicare beneficiaries ≥65 years hospitalized for MI between 1984 and 2003 and calculated the proportion that died inhospital, within 30 days, and within 1 year of hospitalization. We used multivariable risk models to estimate relative and absolute changes in case fatality rate according to race, sex, and age groups. Results After adjustment for age, sex, and race, between 1984 and 2003, there was a 54.3% (95% CI 53.7%-54.8%), 39.7% (95% CI 39.1%-40.3%), and 23.0% (95% CI 22.5%-23.5%) reduction in the risk of inhospital, 30-day, and 1-year mortality, respectively. Relative and absolute reductions were greater in whites than in blacks, with the biggest differences observed for 1-year mortality. Small and inconsistent differences were seen by sex after stratifying by race. Patients aged ≥90 years experienced the smallest relative reductions in case fatality rates, with the biggest differences observed for 1-year mortality. Conclusions Among US Medicare beneficiaries, short-term MI case fatality rates have decreased significantly in all groups, but more so among whites than blacks. Additional studies are needed to clarify the basis for these observations.
A Comparison of Female Mating Strategies in Pan troglodytes and Pongo spp.

Orangutans and chimpanzees differ in many aspects of their mating and social systems. Nevertheless, because both great apes require enormous maternal investment in offspring and because female reproductive potential is limited, female orangutans and chimpanzees should be selective of their mates, yet expected to exhibit anti-infanticide strategies such as mating with multiple males. We review and compare mating patterns in orangutans and chimpanzees to understand how these critical pressures are filtered through the different demands of the socioecology of each species. We highlight the variation in female mating behavior as a function of the proximity of ovulation. We conclude that both genera pursue tactics for paternity confusion by mating with multiple males and by mating cooperatively or even proceptively with nonpreferred partners when conception is unlikely. Mating selectivity is suggested by variation in proceptive behavior toward particular partners and by increased resistance of nonpreferred partners during the periovulatory period. Thus, data for both species support a mixed mating strategy whereby females shift their mating behavior in accordance with ovulatory status to accommodate the competing demands of mate selectivity and paternity confusion.
Plasmodium: electron microscopy of antigen preparations.

Abstract Five commonly used techniques (osmotic, saponin, enzymatic, French pressure cell, and immune lysis methods) for the isolation of malarial parasites from host erythrocytes are reviewed and discussed. It is concluded that the isolation of parasite antigens by any of these methods may be unsatisfactory due primarily to contamination of the final parasite preparations by host-erythrocyte membrane. Careful evaluation of such preparations requires light-microscopy followed by both low- and high-power electron microscopy.
HIV Education for Teens and Preteens in a High-Seroprevalence Inner-City Neighborhood:

In several New York City neighborhoods more than 1 in 10 adults and adolescents are infected with HIV. Children in these neighborhoods are exposed both directly and indirectly to the effects of the HIV epidemic. Exploratory group interviews were conducted to discover the HIV-related concerns of adolescent and preadolescent girls and boys living in a high-seroprevalence neighborhood and to specify the context within which children experienced those concerns. Results indicated that explanations about HIV focusing only on transmission and transmission prevention, whether in educational or family settings, may ignore compelling concerns of youth. Both risk of HIV and loss of neighbors and relatives to HIV permeate daily life but in a way that prevents open discussion. Children are eager to talk about social and personal issues regarding HIV.