cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does Fragmentation of Care in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Increase Patient Mortality

To evaluate health care fragmentation in patients with stage II and III rectal cancers. Fragmentation of care among multiple hospitals may worsen outcomes for cancer patients. National Cancer Database was queried for adult patients who underwent radiation and surgery for locally advanced (stage II–III) rectal adenocarcinoma from 2006 to 2015. Fragmented care was defined as receiving radiation at a different hospital from surgery. Descriptive statistics characterized patients, and survival probability was plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method and a Cox proportional hazards model. A total of 37,081 patients underwent surgery and radiation for stage II–III rectal cancer from 2006 to 2015 (24,102 integrated care vs. 12,979 fragmented care). Patients who received fragmented care (hazard ratio [HR] 1.105; 95% CI 1.045–1.169) had a higher risk of mortality. Patients who received at least surgery (HR 0.84; 95% CI 0.77–0.92) at academic hospitals had a lower risk of mortality. Academic hospitals had a higher proportion of patients with fragmented care (38.0 vs. comprehensive community 32.8% vs. community 33.8%, p < 0.001). Within academic hospitals, fragmented care portended worse survival (integrated academic 80.0% vs. fragmented academic 76.7%, p = 0.0002). Fragmented care at academic hospitals had increased survival over integrated care at community hospitals (fragmented academic 76.7 vs. integrated community 72.2%, p = 0.00039). In patients with stage II–III rectal cancer, patients who have integrated care at academic hospitals or at least surgery at academic centers had better survival. All efforts should be made to reduce care fragmentation and surgery at academic centers should be prioritized.
No Light, No Germination: Excitation of the Rhodospirillum centenum Photosynthetic Apparatus Is Necessary and Sufficient for Cyst Germination.

ABSTRACT Rhodospirillum centenum is a Gram-negative alphaproteobacterium that is capable of differentiating into dormant cysts that are metabolically inactive and desiccation resistant. Like spores synthesized by many Gram-positive species, dormant R. centenum cysts germinate in response to an environmental signal, indicating that conditions favor survival and proliferation. Factors that induce germination are called germinants and are often both niche and species specific. In this study, we have identified photosynthesis as a niche-specific germinant for R. centenum cyst germination. Specifically, excitation of wild-type cysts suspended in a nutrient-free buffer with far-red light at >750 nm results in rapid germination. This is in stark contrast to mutant strains deficient in photosynthesis that fail to germinate upon exposure to far-red light under all assayed conditions. We also show that photosynthesis-induced germination occurs in a carbon- and nitrogen-free buffer even in strains that are deficient in carbon or nitrogen fixation. These results demonstrate that photosynthesis not only is necessary for germination but is itself sufficient for the germination of R. centenum cysts. IMPORTANCE Environmental cues that signal Gram-positive spores to germinate (termed germinants) have been identified for several Bacillus and Clostridium species. These studies showed that germinants are niche and species specific. For example, Clostridium difficile spores sense bile salts as a germinant as their presence informs these cells of an intestinal environment. Bacillus fastidiosus spores use uric acid as a germinant that is present in soil and poultry litter as this species inhabits poultry litter. It is evident from these studies that dormant cells sample their environment to assess whether conditions are advantageous for the propagation and survival of vegetative cells. To date, a limited number of germinants have been defined for only a few Gram-positive spore-forming species. Beyond that group, there is scant information on what cues signal dormant cells to exit dormancy. In our study, we show that the versatile Gram-negative photosynthetic bacterium Rhodospirillum centenum uses light-driven photosynthesis, and not the availability of nutrients, to trigger the germination of dormant cysts. This use of light-driven photosynthesis as a germinant is surprising as this species is also capable of growing under dark conditions using exogenous carbon sources for energy. Consequently, photosynthetic growth appears to be the preferred growth mechanism by this species.
Wrongful Discharge in Violation of Public Policy: A Brief Overview of an Evolving Claim

In this article, Mr. Winterbauer examines the scope and the implica tions of the public policy exception to the employment-at-will rule. He dis cusses the relatively recent development of the doctrine and identifies the considerations that tend to influence the way in which courts apply it. He concludes that while there is considerable merit in a theory which prohibits employers from discharging employees for reasons that are contrary to public policy, the current parameters of the doctrine are so amorphous they deprive employers and employees alike of any meaningful standards against which to evaluate their own employment relationships.
Functional role of the V1/V2 region of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 in infection of primary macrophages and soluble CD4 neutralization.

We have examined the influence of the V1/V2 region of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) gp120 on certain biologic properties of the virus. We observed that on the genomic background of the T-cell-line-tropic strain, HIV-1SF2mc, both the V1 and V2 domains of the macrophage-tropic strain, HIV-1SF162mc, in addition to the required V3 domain, are necessary to attain full macrophage tropism. Furthermore, the V2 domain modulates the sensitivity of HIV-1 to soluble CD4 neutralization. Structural studies of recombinant and mutant envelope glycoproteins suggest that the function of the V1/V2 region is to interact with the V3 domain and confer on the envelope gp120 of HIV-1SF2mc a conformation more similar to that of the macrophage-tropic strain HIV-1SF162mc. The conformation of the envelope gp120 appears to be strain specific and plays an important role in determining HIV-1 tissue tropism and sensitivity to soluble CD4 neutralization. Images
Observed asymmetry in pp̄→π+K−K0/π−K+K̄0 and relation to reciprocity

Abstract The charge-asymmetry observed in a recent CPLEAR experiment was interpreted by the authors as a direct observation of T-noninvariance. While this is the simplest and most natural interpretation, and the observed effect agrees in sign and magnitude with theoretical expectation, adherents of T-invariance could argue that the effect observed by CPLEAR is entirely ascribable to TCP-noninvariance. This radical alternative could be excluded by sufficiently precise measurements on neutral kaon beta-decay. In any case, the CPLEAR experiment significantly restricts possible TCP-noninvariance in neutral kaon mixing.
A major genetic locus affecting resistance to infection with murine leukemia viruses. IV. Dose-response relationships in Fv-1-sensitive and resistant cell cultures.

The resistance to N- and B-tropic viruses controlled by the murine genetic locus Fv-1 was studied by dose-response analyses, using infectious center plating onto sensitive cells to determine the number of virus-producing cells. Three components contributing to the reduced plaquing efficiency on Fv-1 resistant cells were identified. First, the dose-response relations in Fv-1 resistant cells showed multiple-hit kinetics; most virus strains showed 2-hit kinetics, but the Gross Passage A virus gave 3-hit kinetics. This hitness factor is considered to represent the basic effect of Fv-1. Second, in many instances only a small fraction of Fv-1 resistant cells receiving the minimum required number of hits actually became virus producers. Third, only a fraction of the virus-producing cells registered as plaques when left in situ with resistant cells, due to the relative inefficiency of subsequent cycles of infection. Strain DBA/2 cells differed from those of other Fv-1n strains in showing only the hitness component. Fv-1nb hybrid cells showed multiple-hit dose-response curves with both N- and B-tropic viruses. Once infection has been established, virus yield from sensitive and resistant cells is similar.
Carr, Herman Y.: Early Years of Free Precession Revisited

The sections in this article are 1 Echoes in the Night and at Lunch 2 Sample Spinning and a New Type of Echo 3 Imaging and ‘Mental’ Fourier Transforms 4 Flow and Mysterious Even-Numbered Echoes 5 Epilogue 6 Biographical Sketch
Application of an image processing architecture for the Solar Orbiter SPICE instrument

The ongoing development of avionics to support the Spectral Imaging of the Coronal Environment (SPICE) Electronics Box (SEB) program as part of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Solar Orbiter mission has resulted in the development of an Image Processing Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) (IPF). The IPF is a single FPGA containing functions to communicate with a Front End Electronics (FEE) assembly/extreme ultraviolet camera, to apply data corrections on incoming pixels, and to compress the final image product for transmission to the ground. The IPF is used as part of a larger science “observation” campaign envisaged as a series of “studies” that are scheduled using a macro execution engine maintained by the Flight Software (FSW). A macro is a lookup table (LUT) stored in memory which contains a series of SPICE commands with relative time tags for each, which determines when each command is executed. This paper discusses the design and architecture of the IPF and associated controlling software employed to meet the various engineering and science requirements of the SPICE instrument.
The effects of inflammatory arthritis on bone remodeling

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) represents an excellent model for gaining insights into the adverse effects of inflammatory arthritis on skeletal remodeling. Bone erosions at the margins of diarthrodial joints represent the radiographic hallmark of RA. Histopathologic examination of the bone–pannus interface in patients with RA reveals the presence of a heterogeneous population of cells lining the bone surface, including multinucleated cells expressing the full phenotypic repertoire of osteoclasts, the cells that mediate bone resorption in physiologic remodeling. Further evidence implicating osteoclasts in the pathogenesis of marginal joint erosions is derived from animal models of inflammatory arthritis in which animals lacking the capacity to form osteoclasts fail to develop joint erosions. Studies have shown that the RA synovial tissue contains abundant osteoclast precursors and that the RA synovium is a rich source of factors with potent osteoclast differentiation and activation activity. Particular attention has focused on receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL), a member of the tumor necrosis factor ligand family, because of the requirement of this factor for osteoclastogenesis. RANKL is expressed by synovial fibroblasts and activated T cells in RA synovial tissues and in several different animal models of inflammatory arthritis, treatment with osteoprotegerin (the soluble receptor that inhibits RANKL activity) results in marked suppression of focal bone erosions. In addition, mice possessing the null mutation for RANKL are protected from focal bone destruction in the serum transfer model of inflammatory arthritis. An additional observation in patients with active RA is the absence of radiographic evidence of bone repair. This finding suggests that the processes that regulate coupling of bone resorption and formation under physiologic conditions have been disrupted and that the enhanced focal bone resorption is not matched by a compensatory increase in bone formation. In addition to the disordered focal bone remodeling associated with the synovial lesion, patients with RA also exhibit evidence of generalized axial and appendicular bone loss at sites that are distant from inflamed joints. Assessment of biochemical markers of bone turnover indicates that there is a generalized increase in bone resorption, and that there is a correlation between disease activity and the rate of systemic bone resorption. It is likely that this generalized skeletal bone loss is mediated by synovial cytokines with osteoclastogenic activity that enter the circulation and act as 'endocrine' factors to adversely affect systemic bone remodeling. Recent studies indicate that agents, such as the bisphosphonates, that target osteoclast-mediated bone resorption have the capacity to reduce not only generalized bone osteoporosis but also may have efficacy in retarding the progression of focal joint erosions.
Periprosthetic bone loss of the acetabulum. Classification and management

Periprosthetic bone loss, associated with failed acetabular implants, results in disruption of hip mechanics and complicates further reconstruction. To restore normal biomechanics and idealize implant loads, restoration of the normal center of rotation of the hip is recommended. Johnston et al have shown that medial, inferior, and anterior placement of the acetabular component minimizes prosthetic loading, whereas lateralizing the socket relative to the normal center greatly increases joint reactive forces. Since 1984, I have made every effort to restore the normal hip center, within reason, when dealing with the bony deficient acetabulum. In most every socket revision performed during this period, cavitary lesions have been addressed simply with particulate bone grafting or a larger component. To justify the use of structural allografts for the management of segmental defects, I believe the defect must involve the supporting rim, comprise the ability to obtain prosthetic stability, compromise the ability to restore normal hip mechanics, and be located in a high-stress area, i.e., posterior or posterior-superior. Smaller rim defects, in particular those located superior and anterior, can be ignored if they do not lead to prosthetic instability. Some alteration in hip mechanics can be tolerated to avoid structural allografting, but I have elected not to accept a superior translation of greater than 2 cm nor a medial defect that compromises the ability to lateralize the prosthesis adequately towards the normal center. When segmental defects exist while the prosthesis is well contained and stable in host bone (particularly superior and posterior), structural allografts are not necessary. A possible need for bone graft exists when there is questionable stability of the implant, i.e., a segmental defect combined with poor quality host bone, and when a major part of the posterior or superior rim of the component remains uncovered. The age and activity level of the patient enter into this formula at this point, and when the question exists in a younger patient, bone grafting should be performed. A definite need for structural allografting exists when component stability cannot be obtained in host bone, when there is a loss of the weight-bearing portion of the acetabular, particularly posterior, superior, or both, and when a major alteration of hip mechanics has occurred where no medial support or superior translation of greater than 2 cm has occurred. Prosthetic selection can affect the long-term results of acetabular reconstruction. Smooth-threaded components and bipolars have not performed well in revision acetabular surgery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Rational Bias and Herding in Analysts' Recommendations

Using a model without conflicts of interest and with identical information available to equity analysts, we show that bias and herding in their stock recommendations occur due to incentives provided by relative performance evaluation and top awards. Furthermore, these incentives also lead to dispersion of recommendations. In particular, and contrary to commonly held views, high dispersion is more likely to arise for stocks with low volatility, for which bold recommendations increase chances of attaining top analyst status. Our empirical analysis supports this negative relationship between return volatility and recommendation dispersion, especially for large stocks, for which less information asymmetry among analysts is likely.
Variation and Trends in Charges for Pediatric Care in Massachusetts Emergency Departments, 2000-2011.

Objectives Emergency department (ED) utilization by children is common and growing more expensive. Tracking trends and variability in ED charges is essential for policymakers who strive to improve the efficiency of the health care system and for payers who prepare health care budget forecasts. Our objective was to examine trends and variability in ED charges for pediatric patients across Massachusetts. Methods This was a comprehensive analysis of the statewide database containing all the visits of children aged 0 to 18 years evaluated in any of the state's EDs from 2000 to 2011, excluding patients with chronic medical conditions and those whose visits resulted in hospital admission. A validated system designed to specifically classify pediatric emergency patients into major diagnostic groups was used. Mean charges as well as interhospital variability of charges over time were examined for the most common diagnostic groups. Results Seventy-six hospitals provided emergency care in Massachusetts during the study period, with 6,249,923 pediatric patients treated and discharged. Statewide charges significantly increased from 2000 until 2007/2008, before plateauing or decreasing through 2011. There was no evidence that interhospital variability changed over time. With the exception of academic teaching status, no hospital-level factors emerged as consistent predictors of charges. Conclusions Charges for common pediatric emergency conditions varied widely across Massachusetts EDs, and hospital-level factors by and large could not consistently explain the variability. Although a plateau (and in some cases decrease) of statewide pediatric emergency health care charges was observed after 2007, no evidence was found that interhospital variability decreased. These data may be useful in the ongoing effort to reform the economics of health care delivery systems.
Psychometric Evaluation of an Integrated Assessment Procedure

The identification of supervisory and management potential has been an issue of priority in personnel selection for at least the past 40 years. Consequently, a wide variety of procedures have been ...
Power performance of a cascade endoreversible cycle

Abstract A cascade endoreversible cycle is defined as a cycle made by several endoreversible cycles. It utilizes different working fluids to obtain more nearly optimum conditions than could be attained by using a single working fluid endoreversible cycle in a large available temperature range. The performance of the cycle at its maximum output power condition is analyzed.
Numerical Models of the Circulation of the Atmosphere of Venus

Abstract The deep circulation of the atmosphere of Venus is simulated by means of two-dimensional numerical models. Two extreme cases are considered: first, rotation is neglected and the subsolar point is assumed to be fixed; second (and more realistically), the solar heating is averaged over a Venus solar day and rotation is included. For each case a Boussinesq model, in which density variations are neglected except when coupled with gravity, and a quasi-Boussinesq model which includes a basic stratification of density and a semi-gray treatment of radiation, are developed. The results obtained with the Boussinesq models are similar to those obtained by Goody and Robinson and by Stone. However, when the stratification of density is included and most of the solar radiation is absorbed near the top, the large-scale circulation is confined to the upper layers of the atmosphere during the 4×107 sec of simulated time. We cannot be sure that on a much longer time scale (109 sec) the circulation will not penetra...
Banking conduct before the European single banking license: a cross-country comparison

Abstract This paper estimates conduct and excess capacity of the banking industry in 15 industrialized countries in North America, Europe, and Asia during 1979–91. Significant market power was found in five countries and excess capacity was indicated in one country. The estimates were consistent with either contestability or Cournot oligopoly in most of these countries, while five countries were significantly more competitive than Cournot.
Comparison of region-of-interest analysis with three different histogram analysis methods in the determination of perfusion metrics in patients with brain gliomas.

PURPOSE: To compare routine ROI analysis and three different histogram analyses in the grading of glial neoplasms. The hypothesis is that histogram methods can provide a robust and objective technique for quantifying perfusion data in brain gliomas. Current region-of-interest (ROI)-based methods for the analysis of dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (DSC MRI) data are operator-dependent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 92 patients underwent conventional and DSC MRI. Multiple histogram metrics were obtained for cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume (CBV), and relative CBV (rCBV) maps using tumoral (T), peritumoral (P), and total tumoral (TT) analysis. Results were compared to histopathologic grades. Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney (MW) tests, Spearman rank correlation coefficients, logistic regression, and McNemar tests. RESULTS: The maximum value of rCBV (rCBV(max)) showed highly significant correlation with glioma grade (r = 0.734, P <0.001). The strongest histogram correlations (P <0.0001) occurred with rCBV(T) SD (r = 0.718), rCBV(P) SD(25) (r = 0.724) and rCBV(TT) SD(50) (r = 0.685). Multiple rCBV(T), rCBV(P), and rCBV(TT) histogram metrics showed significant correlations. CBF and CBV histogram metrics were less strongly correlated with glioma grade than rCBV histogram metrics. CONCLUSION: Histogram analysis of perfusion MR provides prediction of glioma grade, with peritumoral metrics outperforming tumoral and total tumoral metrics. Further refinement may lead to automated methods for perfusion data analysis.
On the minimization of the total generalized squared correlation of synchronous DS-CDMA

We characterize the total generalized squared correlation (TGSC) for a given signature sequence set used in uplink synchronous code division multiple access (S-CDMA) when channel state information is known perfectly at both transmitter and receiver. We give a definition of the TGSC based on the eigenvalues of Gram matrix associated to signature sequences set for multipath channels in the presence of the colored noise. Total squared correlation (TSC) and total weighted squared correlation (TWSC) measures are particular cases of TGSC. Modified alternating projection method and gradient flow method for minimizing TGSC (TSC, TWSC) in multipath channels and in the presence of the colored noise are investigated.
ERTS Imagery for Ground-Water Investigations

ERTS imagery offers the first opportunity to apply moderately high-resolution satellite data to the nationwide study of water resources. This imagery is both a tool and a form of basic data. Like other tools and basic data, it should be considered for use in ground-water investigations. The main advantage of its use will be to reduce the need for field work. In addition, however, broad regional features may be seen easily on ERTS imagery, whereas they would be difficult or impossible to see on the ground or on low-altitude aerial photographs. Some present and potential uses of ERTS imagery are to locate new aquifers, to study aquifer recharge and discharge, to estimate ground-water pumpage for irrigation, to predict the location and type of aquifer management problems, and to locate and monitor strip mines which commonly are sources for acid mine drainage. In many cases, boundaries which are gradational on the ground appear to be sharp on ERTS imagery. Initial results indicate that the accuracy of maps produced from ERTS imagery is completely adequate for some purposes.
Absolute and Relative Gains in International Relations Theory

The problem of absolute and relative gains divides neoliberal institutionalism and structural realism. The former assumes states focus primarily on their absolute gains and emphasizes the prospects for cooperation. The latter supposes states are largely concerned with relative gains and emphasizes the prospects for conflict. Existing work in international relations theory generally traces the differences between these two theories to different assumptions about states' preferences. Using a simple game-theoretic model, this essay offers a reformulation of the problem of absolute and relative gains that links changes in the states' behavior, the feasibility of cooperation, and especially the states' concern for relative versus absolute gains explicitly to changes in the constraints facing the states. Many of the differences between neoliberal institutionalism and structural realism appear as special cases of the model.
A Demonstration Database For Document Images

This paper reports on a recent effort at the Lister Hill National Center for Biomedical Communications where it is shown that a medical bibliographic database, when linked to a mini-computer's file handling software, can be used to build a demonstration database of document images. The images of the tables of contents from approximately fifty medical books were stored on magnetic disks. The medical bibliographic database, hosted on a remote mainframe computer, was linked to the minicomputer controlling the magnetic disks. The result is that users who do bibliographic searches on a particular medical subject may view, at their work station, the tables of contents and title page from selected citations. The result is also that the document image database is accessed and managed using pre-existing features of the bibliographic database and the minicomputer's operating system.
Assessing strategies for obtaining advanced engineering technologies with highly uncertain benefits

Comprehensive financial methods are presented which can evaluate alternative strategies for obtaining advanced engineering technologies, such as CAD/CAE, when the values of the benefits are highly uncertain or even unknown. The methods integrate traditional financial discounting procedures for known cost data with expert opinions for estimating benefit values and incorporate engineering performance improvement, project volumes ranging from one to infinity, various time horizons, and a comprehensive sensitivity analysis. Realistic strategies and actual case data are used to illustrate the procedures. Impacts from project volume, project benefit values and the selection of the financial evaluation criterion are discussed. >
Self-assembly of fluid-filled KHCO3 microfibers

Self-assembly of KHCO(3) fibers is observed when glassy oligomerized films of poly[(aminopropyl)siloxane] containing K(+) ions, denoted K(+)/poly-APS, are exposed to CO(2) and H(2)O. The fibers are crystalline, narrow (0.4-3 microm diam), high aspect ratio (up to at least 300), and, on the basis of Raman spectroscopy, dominated by KHCO(3). The fibers contain fluid that is dominated by aqueous potassium formate (KOOCH). A multistep phenomenological model is proposed to account for the self-assembly.
Limits on Yields in the Corn Belt

In total global production, corn (maize, Zea mays L.) is the most important food and feed crop. Of the 967 million metric tons produced in 2013, 36.5% were produced in the United States, mostly in the Midwest Corn Belt. The United States is by far the world's largest corn exporter, accounting for 50% of corn exports globally ( 1 , 2 ). Until recently, breeding and management have allowed farmers to increase the number of plants per acre without loss of yield per plant. On page 516 of this issue, Lobell et al. ( 3 ) use a detailed data set for farms across the Corn Belt, to show that increasing yields have been accompanied by rising drought sensitivity, with important implications for future crop yields.
The essentials of planning in the N.H.S.

The N.H.S. planning system, in striving to be both comprehensive and corporate has proved too complex for many non-specialist planners to appreciate. A simple model which defines all health service planning activities as either “central” or “local” is postulated and the essentials of each are described, The interpretation of guidance is isolated as a separate stage of local planning and is identified as a key role of Community Physicians within the system.
Citrate-gel synthesis and characterization of yttrium-doped multiferroic BiFeO3

Perovskite Bi1−x Y x FeO3 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.1) oxides were prepared by a citrate-gel method. The crystal structure examined by X-ray powder diffraction indicates that the samples were single-phase and crystallize in a rhombohedral (space group, R-3c no. 161) structure. The structural phase transition from rhombohedral to orthorhombic phase was observed at x = 0.10. Increase in magnetization was observed as a result of Y doping. The optical band-gap of (Bi, Y)FeO3 materials were determined. The observed increase in magnetization and low band-gap of (Bi, Y)FeO3 ceramics position them for potential magenotoelectric and photocatalytic applications, respectively.
Osmoregulation in some palaemonid prawns

1. The brackish-water prawn Palaemonetes varians and the marine prawns Leander serratus and L. squilla are hypotonic in normal sea water, the blood of these species showing osmotic pressures equivalent to 2·3, 2·8 and 2·6 % NaCl respectively, in an external medium of 3·5 % NaCl. 2. Palaemonetes varians is isotonic in water of about 2·0 % NaCl and the species is practically homoiosmotic, the difference in its osmotic pressure over a range of 5·0 % NaCl in the external medium being only 0·8-1·0 %. The species has a very wide range of tolerance from water that is nearly fresh to concentrated sea water equivalent to 5·2 % NaCl. 3. Leander serratus is much less homoiosmotic than Palaemonetes, and has a limited tolerance to dilution and concentration of the environment. Homoiosmoticity is maintained up to a dilution of 2·5 % in the external medium when isotonicity is reached; but in lower dilutions there is a steady decline in osmotic pressure and the regulatory mechanism evidently breaks down. 4. The osmotic behaviour of Leander squilla is very similar to that of L. serratus, but the homoiosmotic behaviour is more marked and it has greater tolerance to dilution of the environment. 5. When Leander and Palaemonetes are transferred to very dilute sea water, the internal osmotic pressure falls gradually for about 14-24 hr., varying according to the size of the individual. After the lowest value has been registered there is a slight rise, and a steady state is thereafter maintained. 6. Studies on the changes of weight of prawns when transferred to diluted media indicate that the integument (gills) is permeable to water and that, at least in Leander serratus, the amount of water entering is mainly responsible for the dilution of the blood. There is a similar fall in weight when prawns are transferred to concentrated media, due to loss of water.
H-closed extensions I

In this chapter we begin a detailed investigation of the set H(X) of all H-closed extensions of a space X. We begin by considering strict and simple extensions of a space. We then construct and study the Fomin extension σX of an arbitrary space X, the Banaschewski-Fomin-Sanin extension μX of a semiregular space X, and one-point H-closed extensions of locally H-closed spaces. Next we consider the interrelationships among certain partitions of σX\X and the poset structure of H(X). We characterize and study those f ∈ C(X,Y) that can be extended to a function κf ∈ C(κX,κY). The chapter concludes with the study of Θ-equivalent H-closed extensions.
Determination of γ-aminobutyric acid by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection

Abstract γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) has been determined in rat brain by derivatization with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid. The derivative and an internal standard, 2,4,6-trinitrophenyl-δ-aminovaleric acid, are extracted into toluene and separated by reversed-phase chromatography. Electrochemical reduction of these derivatives permits picomole measurements of GABA in microgram amounts of brain tissue.
Pulmonary vascular sling with tracheobronchial stenosis and hypoplasia of the right pulmonary artery

We present a case of pulmonary sling associated with tracheobronchial stenosis, and with hypoplasia of the right lung and right pulmonary artery. Radiologic studies showed evidence of pulmonary sling and hypoplasia of the right lung; associated hypoplasia of the right pulmonary artery was also present, but not recognized initially. Narrowing of the distal trachea and right main bronchus was present, not due to compression by the anomalous left pulmonary artery, but to congenital stenosis of the trachea and right main bronchus associated with complete cartilaginous tracheobronchial rings.
Molecular pathways in malignant pleural mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma, although uncommon, is highly lethal. There is a high correlation between associated environmental exposure factors, carcinogens, and its development. Carcinogenesis is also mediated by genetic defects that result in loss of tumor suppressors or over expression of proto-oncogenes. Factors such as the loss of CDK inhibition function, IGF stimulatory pathways, p14(ARF), p15(INK4b), p16(INK4a), p21, and p53 loss or mutation, VEGF and COX over expression are discussed. Correlations to potential therapeutic modalities are made.
Revisiting the Individual in Prehistory: Idiosyncratic Engraving Variation and the Neolithic Slate Plaques of the Iberian Peninsula

Experiments in replicating facsimiles of Late Neolithic engraved slate plaques from southwestern Iberia suggest that variation related to fine-motor skills is greater between individual engravers than within the work of a single engraver. This implies that the work of different individuals producing certain classes of material culture may be distinguishable on the basis of repetitive, idiosyncratic traits. These studies also generate otherwise unobtainable information about the experience of plaque making. We examine past and present methodological attempts to differentiate unconscious, individual styles from intentional, culturally mediated styles, and discuss why in some cases it is extremely difficult to separate such variation. We explore the link between individual variation and theoretical notions of the individual, and its implications for understanding the organization, transmission, and shared expression of ancient social practices.
Neural networks for ischemic stroke.

Background: To have uniform criteria for evaluating populations for prevalence of transient ischemic attack (TIA)/stroke, validated instruments are necessary for objective assessment and classification. Methods: Patient responses compatible with symptoms of TIA or ischemic stroke, obtained from participants in a substudy of the Asymptomatic Carotid Atherosclerosis Study, were used to program a neural network for each symptom. Models were designed for rapid classification into 1 of 7 outputs: no event, TIA, or stroke (in left carotid, right carotid, or vertebrobasilar). The networks were then tested by comparing decisions with a validated questionnaire used to access an independent data set of 381 patients. Results: There were 144 patients who reported sudden speech change, 89 with sudden vision loss, 67 with double vision, 189 with sudden numbness, 223 with episodic dizziness, and 108 with paralysis, for a total of 820 reported symptoms among the 381 patients tested. For each category, an equal number of individuals reporting "No" to these phenomena were randomly selected and analyzed. Neural network classification correlated with the diagnoses made by specially trained stroke clinicians (e.g., all who responded "No" were correctly classified as having no neurologic event). Ten symptomatic patients were misclassified, with the most common reason being incomplete data. After adjustment of the network logic, these misclassifications did not recur. Conclusion: Computer networks can be trained to produce a rapid and accurate classification of TIA or stroke by vascular distribution, enabling screening of populations for assessment of their incidence and prevalence.
Determination of nanoparticle vehicle unpackaging by MR imaging of a T2 magnetic relaxation switch

Non-invasive imaging of gene and drug delivery is an important tool in understanding the biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of vectors after in vivo administration. In this work, we demonstrate the utility of a multifunctional delivery vector comprised of polyethylenimine conjugated to ultrasmall, superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO). The conjugate (USPIO-PEI) is capable of complexing plasmid DNA into nanoparticles (SPIO-polyplex) with diameters approximately 100 nm and protecting the DNA from nuclease degradation. SPIO-polyplexes transfect cells with high efficiency and low toxicity. In addition, the T2 relaxation time of water enhanced by USPIO is shown to be a function of the packaging state of the vector. Thus, this material integrates capabilities of gene delivery with magnetic resonance (MR) contrast and also provides an MR-based read-out for vector unpackaging.
Transient Mass Transfer at the Rotating Disk Electrode

Transient mass transfer at the rotating disk has been investigated theoretically and experimentally for cathodic reduction of ferricyanide in the redox system ferricyanide-ferrocyanide with potassium hydroxide supporting electrolyte. It has been shown that overpotential-time predictions for the rotating disk are fitted very well for decay (current interruption) but poorly for build-up following switching on of constant current. As an explanation for this behavior, attention is directed to the inadequacy of the assumption that a radially independent concentration profile exists at the disk surface just at the start of galvanostatic current passage.
Arrhythmias induced by pacemaking on demand.

Abstract Five unusual arrhythmias which appeared in 9 patients with permanent transvenous Chardack-Greatbatch demand pacemakers are described. Escape-capture bigeminy, trigeminy, and the concertina effect were due to slight changes in the supraventricular and pacemaker rates. Changes in pacemaker rate were dependent upon variation in configuration of the preceding QRS complex. Post-extrasystolic pacemaker escape occurred in the presence of an ectopic supraventricular or ventricular impulse. Pacemaker ventriculophasic sinus arrhythmia occurred because of the possible influence of a pacemaker-induced ventricular complex on the rhythmicity of the sinus node. All patients were asymptomatic when the arrhythmias were recorded.
Charge-transfer excitons in anthracene crystals and their role in optical charge carrier generation

Abstract The energy of an electron-hole pair in anthracene is calculated for a complete range of separations and the resulting change-transfer exciton potentials are used to analyze optical charge carrier generation as a function of wavelength and temperature.
Molecular cloning of PARP (proline/arginine-rich protein) from human cartilage and subsequent demonstration that PARP is a fragment of the NH2-terminal domain of the collagen α2(XI) chain

We report the molecular cloning of a proline/arginine-rich protein (called PARP) from human cartilage using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and degenerate oligonucleotides based on the previously published amino acid sequence of bovine PARP [1]. Subsequently, a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed with poly(A)-rich RNA from human cartilage using a sense oligonucleotide derived from PARP and an anti-sense oligonucleotide derived from the known sequence of the human collagen α2(XI) chain [2]. Nucleotide sequencing of the PCR product demonstrated that PARP is a fragment of the NH2-terminal non-collagenous (NC3) domain of the collagen α2(XI) chain.
Carbonyl sulfide as an inverse tracer for biogenic organic carbon in gas and aerosol phases

[1] Carbonyl sulfide (COS) is a long-lived trace gas in the atmosphere with an oceanic source and a surface sink through the uptake by vegetation and soils. We demonstrate the use of COS as an inverse tracer for the impact of biogenic emissions on an air mass including the formation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Using airborne data from the summer of 2004 over the northeastern U.S., we find that air masses with reduced COS in the continental boundary layer had on average higher mixing ratios of biogenic VOCs (isoprene, monoterpenes, methanol) and their photo-oxidation products (methacrolein, methyl vinyl ketone, methyl furan and MPAN, a peroxyacyl nitrate derived from isoprene). Measurements of water-soluble organic carbon were only weakly correlated with COS, indicating that SOA formation from biogenic precursors was a small contribution to the total.
Drug treatment of colorectal cancer. Current status.

Drug therapy is most often used in colorectal cancer for palliation of metastatic disease. Current data also support the use of adjuvant chemotherapy following complete surgical resection in patients with locoregional lymph node metastases. The agent most widely used in the treatment of colorectal cancer is the antimetabolite fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil; 5-FU). This fluoridated pyrimidine has been available for over 30 years, yet to date no other single agent has proven to be more efficacious. Controversy exists about the most desirable schedule for administration of fluorouracil. Efforts have been made to improve upon its therapeutic index and efficacy by using the concept of biomodulation, in which chemicals which are not themselves active antineoplastic agents against colorectal cancer are administered with fluorouracil in an attempt to enhance the sensitivity of the cancer cell to fluorouracil. Biomodulation agents currently in use in clinical practice include leucovorin (calcium folinate), methotrexate, and interferon-α. Other biomodulation strategies are currently under investigation. Adding putatively active antineoplastic agents to fluorouracil to form combination chemotherapy regimens has not yielded convincingly superior results to treatment with fluorouracil alone, and the toxicities of many of these combination regimens have been formidable. Secondary therapies following failure of fluorouracil-based regimens have been similarly disappointing. Current areas of investigation into the chemotherapy of colorectal cancer include development of new agents, locoregional administration of chemotherapy, and manipulation of intrinsic drug resistance mechanisms of the cancer cells.
The Complete Guide to Hedge Funds and Hedge Fund Strategies

The Complete Guide to Hedge Funds & Hedge Fund Strategies is a thorough and inclusive book that examines hedge funds both pre- and post crisis while addressing all aspects of this alternative asset class. The fundamentals of the hedge fund industry as well as a detailed examination of every strategy are covered with examples, figures, and tables. The author also addresses UCITS compliant hedge funds, regulation, corporate governance in a post crisis world and how the Dodd–Frank Act provisions have affected the hedge fund industry.
Renal function in children undergoing cardiac operations.

Abstract Because we sometimes observed large amounts of uric acid crystals in the urine of infants and children after open-heart operations and since renal insufficiency from any cause can be a serious complication of cardiac procedures, 8 acyanotic and 5 cyanotic children were studied prospectively by comparing several preoperative and postoperative measures of renal function. There were no significant differences between the acyanotic and cyanotic groups in terms of age, time on cardiopulmonary bypass, or other preoperative variables. Postoperatively, children in both groups had a wide range of free water clearances (C H 2 O ), with some values in the range reported to be diagnostic of renal insufficiency in adults. Since none of these children had renal insufficiency by other criteria, C H 2 O may not be as reliable an indicator of renal insufficiency in children. The major difference between the cyanotic and acyanotic groups was seen in postoperative serum uric acid levels (S UA ); the mean S UA levels in the acyanotic and cyanotic groups were 5.3 ± 0.5 mg/dl (± standard error of the mean) and 10.4 ± 1.7 mg/dl (range, 8.0 to 15.5 mg/dl), respectively. Since the hyperuricemia in the cyanotic children could not be related to increased exogenous administration or decreased renal excretion, it is probably caused by increased endogenous production and may be related to the resolution of the cyanotic state.
The relationship between ATP hydrolysis and active force in compressed and swollen skinned muscle fibers of the rabbit.

We investigated whether the inhibition of force generation observed in compressed muscle fibers is accompanied by a coupled reduction in hydrolytic activity. Isometric force and rates of ATP hydrolysis (ATPase) were measured as functions of the relative width of chemically skinned skeletal muscle fiber segments immersed in relaxing (pCa>8) and activating (pCa 4.9) salt solutions. Osmotic radial compression of the fiber segment was produced (with little or no affect on striation spacing) by adding Dextran T500 to the bathing media. ADP as a product of ATP hydrolysis in fibers undergoing 10–15 min contractions was measured using high pressure liquid chromatography. Compression of the (initially swollen) fiber segment with dextran produced a slight (4%) increase in average active force and then, with further compression, a sharp decrease (with maximum around in situ width). With compression, the average ATPase of the fiber decreased monotonically, and with extreme compression (with 0.22 g dextran per ml), ATPase fell to a fifth of its level determined in dextran-free solution while force was abolished. The time course of active force development was described by the sum of two exponential functions, the faster of which characterized the rate of rise. Fiber compression (0.14 g dextran per ml) reduced the rate of rise of force ten-fold compared to that in dextran-free solution. Hindrance of cross movement is proposed to account for the inhibition of active force generation and (coupled) ATPase in compressed fibers.
K Bistro: a restaurant chooses the future

Purpose – This paper aims to study K Bistro and its future in Marion, Indiana. K Bistro is a new restaurant that opened in the spring of 2012. The owner, Chef David Kay, has extensive culinary experience. Originally from Marion, Indiana, he has served as head chef for Marriott and Hilton hotels across the country. Design/methodology/approach – Chef Kay recognized that there was a need for an upscale eatery in his hometown, and his passion for combining French cooking techniques with traditional Midwest cuisine has allowed him to introduce a new style of food to the area. Findings – While Marion has several fast food restaurants, it is typical for families to drive to neighboring cities when they want a nice meal to celebrate a special occasion. Chef Kay hopes to change this trend by offering a more convenient option to the Marion community. Originality/value – This is an original case study.
Can Bridged 1,6-X-[10]Annulenes (X = SiH2, SiMe2, PH, and S) Exist?

In contrast to the 1,6-X-[10]annulenes (X = CH2, O, NH) with delocalized forms (c), their X = PH and S counterparts favor the bisnorcaradiene structures (b). Forms b and c are close in energy with X = SiH2 and SiMe2. The computed nucleus independent chemical shifts (NICS), show both annulenes (c) and cyclic polyenes (a) to be aromatic. Strain-introduced structural localization, e.g., due to four bulky SiMe3 substituents, reduces but does not eliminate aromaticity.