cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elementary Scattering Theory

This chapter is concerned with developing the basic language to be used in describing nuclear reactions and with establishing some general properties that such descriptions must satisfy. We indicated briefly in section 2.15 how we obtain the solution of the Schrodinger equation for the scattering of a particle by a potential and how to use this wave function to obtain the scattering amplitude and cross-section. Here we show how the wave function and the Schrodinger equation need to be generalised to describe collisions between complex nuclei which allow inelastic scattering and rearrangement reactions. The construction of various models, by which we clothe the formal framework with physical ideas, is dealt with in a later chapter. Of course, we can do no more than summarise those features of scattering theory which are of particular importance to us here. More complete and detailed treatments can be found in quantum mechanics texts (e.g. Messiah, 1962; Merzbacher, 1961) and more advanced nuclear physics texts such as those listed in the references. Section 3.3 is somewhat more advanced than the rest of the material and could be omitted at first reading.
Identification of early-stage usual interstitial pneumonia from low-dose chest CT scans using fractional high-density lung distribution

A fully-automated computer algorithm has been developed to identify early-stage Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP) using features computed from low-dose CT scans. In each scan, the pre-segmented lung region is divided into N subsections (N = 1, 8, 27, 64) by separating the lung from anterior/posterior, left/right and superior/inferior in 3D space. Each subsection has approximately the same volume. In each subsection, a classic density measurement (fractional high-density volume h) is evaluated to characterize the disease severity in that subsection, resulting in a feature vector of length N for each lung. Features are then combined in two different ways: concatenation (2*N features) and taking the maximum in each of the two corresponding subsections in the two lungs (N features). The algorithm was evaluated on a dataset consisting of 51 UIP and 56 normal cases, a combined feature vector was computed for each case and an SVM classifier (RBF kernel) was used to classify them into UIP or normal using ten-fold cross validation. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) was used for evaluation. The highest AUC of 0.95 was achieved by using concatenated features and an N of 27. Using lung partition (N = 27, 64) with concatenated features had significantly better result over not using partitions (N = 1) (p-value < 0.05). Therefore this equal-volume partition fractional high-density volume method is useful in distinguishing early-stage UIP from normal cases.
Imaging self-luminous objects through a single optical fiber

We demonstrate the possibility of image transmission through a single optical fiber, where spatial positions are converted to spectral codes that span the full bandwidth of the object spectrum.
Validation of ozone intensities at 10 µm with THz spectrometry

Abstract This manuscript reports an effort to improve the absolute accuracy of ozone intensities in the 10 µm region via a transfer of the precision of the rotational dipole moment onto the infrared measurement. The approach determines the ozone mixing ratio through alternately measuring seven pure rotation ozone lines from 692 to 779 GHz. A multispectrum fitting technique was employed. The results determine the column with absolute accuracy of 1.5% and the intensities of infrared transitions measured at this accuracy reproduce the recommended values to within a standard deviation of 2.8%.
Learning sleep stages from radio signals: a conditional adversarial architecture

We focus on predicting sleep stages from radio measurements without any attached sensors on subjects. We introduce a new predictive model that combines convolutional and recurrent neural networks to extract sleep-specific subject-invariant features from RF signals and capture the temporal progression of sleep. A key innovation underlying our approach is a modified adversarial training regime that discards extraneous information specific to individuals or measurement conditions, while retaining all information relevant to the predictive task. We analyze our game theoretic setup and empirically demonstrate that our model achieves significant improvements over state-of-the-art solutions.
Home health nurse decision-making regarding visit intensity planning for newly admitted patients: a qualitative descriptive study

Despite patients referred to home health having diverse and complex needs, it is unknown how nurses develop personalized visit plans. In this qualitative descriptive study, we interviewed 26 nurses from three agencies about their decision-making process to determine visit intensity and analyzed data using directed content analysis. Following a multifactorial assessment of the patient, nurses relied on their experience and their agency's protocols to develop the personalized visit plan. They revised the plan based on changes in the patient's clinical condition, engagement, and caregiver availability. Findings suggest strategies to improve visit planning and positively influence outcomes of home health patients.
Macrophage Procoagulants, Fibrin Deposition, and the Inflammatory Response

In 1938, Menkin provided a comprehensive view of the inflammatory response: “Inflammation may be broadly defined as the complex vascular, lymphatic, and local tissue reaction elicited in higher animals by the presence of microorganisms or of nonviable irritants. It represents a basic reaction to injury, in which the deleterious agent tends to be localized and ultimately destroyed.” Menkin characterized several phases in the development of the inflammatory lesion beginning with increased fluid passage through the capillary endothelial wall and the formation of a fibrinous network which immobilizes the irritant. The lesion is then completed by the development of local thrombi, occlusion of draining lymphatics, and subsequent infiltration of leukocytes. Menkin proposed that the early fixation of the irritant allowed an interval during which leukocytes could assemble for the purpose of phagocytosis. Furthermore, these three phases—local fluid influx, fixation in a focal fibrinous meshwork, and progressive leukocyte infiltration—represent a necessary prelude to the development of immunity.
Phase Transitions in Artificial Atoms

Modern techniques of lithography make it possible to confine electrons to sufficiently small dimensions that the quantization of their energy and charge is easily observable. Whereas the artificial atoms so formed behave in many ways like natural ones, new physics is observed because their level spacing is smaller than that of natural atoms. In particular, a phase transition as a function of magnetic field between the spin singlet state and the spin polarized state has recently been observed in artificial atoms that is inaccessible at reasonable magnetic fields in natural atoms. We present a simple explanation of the physics of this transition.
Revolutionizing Estimation and Inference for Program Evaluation Using Bayesian Methods.

Background:Policy makers seek to replace the “thumbs up–thumbs down” of conventional hypothesis testing with statements about the probability that program effects on key outcomes exceed policy-rele...
Ontology-Based Knowledge Management System for Digital Highway Construction Inspection:

Inspection is critical to ensuring the quality of infrastructure construction. In recent years, state highway agencies (SHAs) have been facing the challenge of a shortage of experienced inspectors ...
Positive Youth Development for Youth With Disabilities in a Therapeutic Camp Setting

The purpose of this article is to describe the value of the outdoor camp experiences among youth with disabilities participating in an outdoor therapeutic camp. The focus of the analysis is to understand the dimensions of positive youth development amongst youth campers with disabilities. A total of 12 campers were interviewed, 6 male and 6 female. Emerging themes included: (a) social, (b) character building, and (c) self-confidence and provide linkages to positive youth development domains. Findings identified the benefits that youth receive from attending an outdoor therapeutic recreation camp program such as opportunities to interact with old and new friends, feeling like a member for the camp family, feeling accepted and able to be themselves. Other benefits included becoming more independent, autonomous, and more self-confident.
A comparison of chlorophyll a values obtained from an autonomous underwater vehicle to satellite-based measures for Lake Michigan

Abstract Accurate methods to track changes in lake productivity through time and space are critical to fisheries management. Chlorophyll a is the most widely studied proxy for ecosystem primary production and has been the topic of many studies. The main sources of chlorophyll a measurements are ship-based measures or multi-spectral satellite data. Autonomous underwater vehicles can survey large spatial extents approaching the scale of satellite data, but with the accuracy of ship-based water sampling methods. We use several statistical measures to compare measures of chlorophyll a collected in Lake Michigan with spatiotemporally matched satellite-derived measures of chlorophyll a from the MODIS Aqua multi-spectral sensor using NASA's OC3 and the Great Lakes Fit algorithms. Our findings show a near one to one relationship between AUV data and both satellite-derived data sets when the AUV data are coarsened to the resolution of the satellite data. A comparison of satellite-based chlorophyll a to AUV-derived chlorophyll summarized in discrete water depth bins suggested that, based on decreasing coefficients of determination, satellite estimates of chlorophyll accounted for the most variability in chlorophyll a concentrations in the upper 10 m of the water column, even though satellite sensors may detect past this depth.
E-131 Outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke in native american population: a preliminary study

Objectives The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the difference in the functional and neurological outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for an acute ischemic stroke (AIS), between Native Americans (NA) patients versus other ethnicities. Background There is scarcity of data regarding outcome of MT in NA population. Considering the dynamics of the state of New Mexico and a diverse patient population, we evaluated the difference in outcome between NA patients with comparison group representing other ethnicities. Methods This is a preliminary, observational retrospective case-control study. All NA patients who underwent MT for LVO from January 01, 2016 to December 31, 2018 at UNMH were included. Data was extracted from Cerner database at UNMH and was collected on secured Redcap™ database. Patients were categorized into NA vs comparison group (other ethnicities) into two groups, with the ratio of 1:4 respectively. Results A total of 35 patients who underwent MT at UNMH for an AIS were included in analysis: seven NA and 28 controls. Nine patients (NA=7) were directly admitted through ED while 26 were transferred from outside hospitals (NA=6). Prevalence of vascular risk factors, including Hypertension, hyperlipidemia, Coronary artery disease, Diabetes Mellitus was noticeably higher in NA than the comparison group. There was no statistical difference in the two groups with regards to median time interval from last known well (LKW) to groin puncture, and from LKW to reperfusion. The mortality was 14% in NA group and 4% in the comparison group. The median NIHSS on discharge between NA and comparison group was 13 and 15.5, respectively. The median mRS at 6 months follow up was 1 in NA and 2 in comparison group, however this was not statistically significant. Conclusion This is the first ever descriptive study evaluating outcomes in NA patients undergoing MT. Prevalence of vascular risk factors in NA was noticeably higher compared to the comparison group. Our retrospective study showed that Native American patients similar functional and neurological outcomes for thrombectomy. Disclosures A. Ikram: None. S. Suriya: None. M. Farooqui: None. O. Owens: None. A. Alvarado Arias: None. D. Sorte: None. A. Carlson: None. S. Ortega-Guiterrez: None. M. Torbey: None. A. Zafar: None.
Cholangioscopy Biopsies Improve Detection of Cholangiocarcinoma When Combined with Cytology and FISH, but Not in Patients with PSC

Single-operator cholangioscopy (SOC) has been suggested to be a cost-effective strategy for the detection of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). The aim of this study is to compare the performance characteristics of SOC-guided biopsies and transpapillary biopsies with standard sampling techniques for the detection of CCA. A retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing SOC between 1/2007 and 10/2018 at a single academic center was performed. Demographic, procedural, and outcomes data were recorded and analyzed using STATA 14.0. Sensitivity comparison between diagnostic tests was performed using exact McNemar test exclusively among patients with CCA. Two-sided p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Ninety-two patients were included; 36 (39.1%) with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), 41 (44.6%) with CCA, and median follow-up was 15.1 months. In the overall cohort, brush cytology demonstrated a sensitivity of 44.7% and increased with the addition of FISH (56.8%; p = 0.12), FISH with SOC-guided biopsy (71.4%; p = 0.03), and FISH with transpapillary biopsy (64.5%; p = 0.01). However, in patients with PSC, there was no significant improvement in sensitivity with the addition of SOC-guided biopsy or transpapillary biopsy in addition to FISH when compared to brush cytology. There was no difference in the rates of overall adverse events (14% vs. 23.2%; p = 0.27) or infection (3% vs. 4%; p = 0.83) in patients with and without PSC. SOC-guided and transpapillary biopsies improve sensitivity for the detection of cholangiocarcinoma in combination with other ERCP-based techniques compared to brush cytology alone. However, while safe, these modalities do not significantly improve the sensitivity for the detection of malignancy in PSC patients.
Medications Used in U.S. Emergency Departments for an Ankle Sprain: An Analysis of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey.

Abstract Background An ankle sprain is a common musculoskeletal injury treated in the emergency department. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation is the preferred method for managing the symptoms after an ankle sprain. However, many patients receive a medication, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or an opioid. Objectives We sought to quantify the type of medication(s) used for an ankle sprain and to examine those across age and sex. Methods This was a retrospective review of the publicly available data collected through the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 2006–2015. All cases with an isolated diagnosis of an ankle sprain were identified. Medication listed for each case was classified based on its detailed category and further explored across all 10 years, age, and sex. Results An estimated 9,052,678 ankle sprain visits occurred in emergency departments from 2006–2015. NSAIDs (56.1%) and opioid analgesic combination (28.4%) were the 2 most common medications. Regardless of the type, most medications were prescribed at discharge. The use of NSAIDs appears to have increased while opioid analgesic combinations decreased in 2010. NSAIDs were the most common medication identified with each age cohort; however, there was no apparent trend in medication for sex. Conclusions NSAIDs are the most common medication used for ankle sprain visits to the ED. Nevertheless, an opioid is also used at a relatively high rate for this injury. These findings provide awareness and opportunity to focus on strategies for reduction of opioid use.
Ensemble Modeling of Neurocognitive Performance Using MRI-Derived Brain Structure Volumes.

Prediction of cognitive performance from brain structural imaging data is a challenging machine learning topic. Participating in the ABCD Neurocognitive prediction challenge (2019), we implemented several machine learning models to solve this problem. Our results show superior performance from models relying on boosted decision trees and we find benefit from using two different sets of derived brain volumetric features. Lastly, across all models, we report an increase in performance by ensembling several different model types together in a final layer.
Simulation in Otolaryngology and Airway Procedures

Anesthesiologists and otolaryngologists share overlapping patient concerns because of the proximity of the surgical airway. While many surgical environments benefit from a collegial team dynamic, the characteristics of the otolaryngologic environment require a unique interdisciplinary collaboration for optimal patient outcomes. Patients undergoing head and neck surgery are at high risk of potentially devastating events if the airway is distorted due to pathologic conditions. Therefore, both specialties benefit from a shared understanding of each other’s practice. Team training in the form of interprofessional simulation education involving surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing is critical for patient safety in the operating room in general but more so in otolaryngology surgery. High-quality ENT anesthesia simulation training should provide clinicians with (1) deliberate practice of procedural skills and/or (2) familiarization with equipment and their failure modes, (3) management of basic and critical events associated with ENT patients and surgery, (4) interdisciplinary crisis resource management skills during head and neck surgery including decision-making under pressure and delegation of roles, and (5) debriefing, reflection, and valuable feedback.
Using Mobile Health Tools to Engage Rural Underserved Individuals in a Diabetes Education Program in South Texas: Feasibility Study

Background: Access to diabetes education and resources for diabetes self-management is limited in rural communities, despite higher rates of diabetes in rural populations compared with urban populations. Technology and mobile health (mHealth) interventions can reduce barriers and improve access to diabetes education in rural communities. Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) and financial incentives can be used with mHealth interventions to increase the uptake of diabetes education; however, studies have not examined their combined use for diabetes self-management in rural settings. Objective: This two-phase Stage 1 feasibility study aimed to use a mixed methods design to examine the feasibility and acceptability of an mHealth diabetes education program combining SBIRT and financial incentives to engage rural individuals. Methods: In Phase 1, we aimed to develop, adapt, and refine the intervention protocol. In Phase 2, a 3-month quasi-experimental study was conducted with individuals from 2 rural communities in South Texas. Study participants were individuals who attended free diabetes screening events in their community. Those with low or medium risk received health education material, whereas those with high risk or those with a previous diagnosis of diabetes participated in motivational interviewing and enrolled in the 6-week mHealth Diabetes Self-Management Education Program under either an unconditional or aversion incentive contract. The participants returned for a 3-month follow-up. Feasibility and acceptability of the intervention were determined by the rate of participant recruitment and retention, the fidelity of program delivery and compliance, and the participant’s satisfaction with the intervention program. Results: Of the 98 screened rural community members in South Texas, 72 individuals met the study eligibility and 62 individuals agreed to enroll in the study. The sample was predominately female and Hispanic, with an average age of 52.6 years. The feedback from study participants indicated high levels of satisfaction with the mHealth diabetes education program. In the poststudy survey, the participants reported high levels of confidence to continue lifestyle modifications, that is, weight loss, physical activity, and diet. The retention rate was 50% at the 3-month follow-up. Participation in the intervention was high at the beginning and dissipated in the later weeks regardless of the incentive contract type. Positive changes were observed in weight (mean -2.64, SD 6.01; P<.05) and glycemic control index (-.30; P<.05) in all participants from baseline to follow-up. Conclusions: The finding showed strong feasibility and acceptability of study recruitment and enrollment. The participants’ participation and retention were reasonable given the unforeseen events that impacted the study communities during the study period. Combining mHealth with SBIRT has the potential to reach individuals with need to participate in diabetes education in rural communities.
Crystallizing the Educational Implications of Jefferson’s Revolutionary Theory

The chapter is summative and seeks to crystalize the educational implications of Jefferson’s revolutionary theory outlined in previous chapters. The three essential features of the theory are described as: (a) the capacity to revise, (b) the capacity for dissent, and (c) the Spirit of 76 as a rhetorical trope and vehicle of certain “revolutionary” moral principles. Each of these three elements are subsequently discussed in terms of their ability to enhance the practice of civic education today.
In Patients with Membranous Lupus Nephritis, Exostosin-Positivity and Exostosin-Negativity Represent Two Different Phenotypes.

BACKGROUND In patients with secondary (autoimmune) membranous nephropathy, two novel proteins, Exostosin 1 and Exostosin 2 (EXT1/EXT2), are potential disease antigens, biomarkers, or both. In this study, we validate the EXT1/EXT2 findings in a large cohort of membranous lupus nephritis. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with membranous lupus nephritis, and performed immunohistochemistry studies on the kidney biopsy specimens against EXT1 and EXT2. Clinicopathologic features and outcomes of EXT1/EXT2-positive versus EXT1/EXT2-negative patients were compared. RESULTS Our study cohort included 374 biopsy-proven membranous lupus nephritis cases, of which 122 (32.6%) were EXT1/EXT2-positive and 252 (67.4%) were EXT1/EXT2-negative. EXT1/EXT2-positive patients were significantly younger (P=0.01), had significantly lower serum creatinine levels (P=0.02), were significantly more likely to present with proteinuria ≥3.5 g/24 h (P=0.009), and had significantly less chronicity features (glomerulosclerosis, P=0.001 or interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, P<0.001) on kidney biopsy. Clinical follow-up data were available for 160 patients, of which 64 (40%) biopsy results were EXT1/EXT2-positive and 96 (60%) were EXT1/EXT2-negative. The proportion of patients with class 3/4 lupus nephritis coexisting with membranous lupus nephritis was not different between the EXT1/EXT2-positive and EXT1/EXT2-negative groups (25.0% versus 32.3%; P=0.32). The patients who were EXT1/EXT2-negative evolved to ESKD faster and more frequently compared with EXT1/EXT2-positive patients (18.8% versus 3.1%; P=0.003). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of EXT1/EXT2 positivity was 32.6% in our cohort of membranous lupus nephritis. Compared with EXT1/EXT2-negative membranous lupus nephritis, EXT1/EXT2-positive disease appears to represent a subgroup with favorable kidney biopsy findings with respect to chronicity indices. Cases of membranous lupus nephritis that are EXT1/EXT2-negative are more likely to progress to ESKD compared with those that are EXT1/EXT2-positive.
Traumatic Genial Tubercle Fractures of the Mandible: Airway Concerns and Invasive Management-A Report of 2 Cases.

Traumatic genial tubercle fracture of the mandible is a rare event that may cause airway compromise owing to loss of the support to the base of the tongue. Over the last 70 years, only 7 known cases of traumatic genial tubercle fractures have been reported. We detail the surgical management of 2 traumatically induced genial tubercle fractures that involved varying levels of airway compromise. These 2 cases add to the limited body of knowledge of the surgical management of this rare and potentially fatal mandible fracture pattern.
A Case Study in Architectural Modelling: The AEGIS System

Software architecture is receiving increasingly attention as a critical design level for software systems. However, the current practice of architectural description is largely informal and ad hoc, with the consequence that architectural documents serve as a poor communication mechanism, are difficult to analyze, and may have very little relationship to the implemented system. In an attempt to address these problems several researchers have experimented with formalisms for architectural specification and modelling. One such formalism is Wright. In this paper we show how Wright can be used to provide insight into an architectural design by modelling a prototype implementation of part of the AEGIS Weapons System.
LUVOIR: Engineering Design & Technology Overview

The Large Ultraviolet / Optical / Infrared Surveyor (LUVOIR) is one of four large mission concepts being study by NASA in preparation for the 2020 Decadal Survey in Astronomy and Astrophysics. Over the past three and a half years, the LUVOIR Science and Technology Definition Team (STDT) and Study Office at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have developed a broad, compelling science case for LUVOIR, and detailed engineering point designs to achieve it. In this paper, we provide an overview of the two LUVOIR concepts: LUVOIR-A, a 15-m segmented, obscured aperture observatory, and LUVOIR-B, an 8-m segmented, unobscured aperture observatory. Both versions of LUVOIR cover a broad spectral range between 100 nm and 2.5 Âµm with a suite of imagers and spectrographs, including the High Definition Imager (HDI), the LUVOIR Ultraviolet Multi-object Spectrograph (LUMOS), and the Extreme Coronagraph for Living Planetary Systems (ECLIPS). LUVOIR-A will carry an additional fourth instrument, Pollux, a high-resolution UV spectropolarimeter being studied by the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Both versions of LUVOIR are also designed to be serviceable and upgradeable. We will also provide a summary of the LUVOIR technology development program, which identifies critical enabling technologies, enhancing technologies, and a development plan to mature those technologies to TRL 6.
Pediatric primary care and subspecialist providers' comfort, attitudes and practices screening and referring for social determinants of health.

BACKGROUND Early detection and management of poverty-related disorders is a recommended pediatric practice; however, little is known about variations of practice between pediatric primary care physicians and subspecialists. The objectives of this study were to assess (1) provider perceptions and attitudes toward caring for low-income children in an urban academic medical center, and (2) variations between primary care physicians and subspecialists in social and financial needs screening and referral practices for low-income children. DESIGN/METHODS Primary care providers (pediatric and family medicine) and subspecialists providing direct patient care in an urban academic medical center (response rate = 24 %, n = 85/356) completed a 24-item survey (adapted with permission from the AAP Periodic Survey of Fellows No.90) assessing feasibility and comfort screening and addressing social and financial needs, rates of screening for financial hardship, and referrals to local resources. Chi-square tests were performed. RESULTS Among respondents, 88 % (75/85) reported comfort caring for low-income children, while 28 % (24/85) reported comfort inquiring about social and financial needs and 34 % (29/85) referring to community resources. Primary care providers more commonly than subspecialists screened for childcare (80 % vs. 59 %, p = 0.04), parental: employment (84 % vs. 59 %, p = 0.01), education (40 % vs. 17 %, p = 0.02) and mental health (86 % vs. 46 %, p = 0.0001), and less commonly screened for transportation (47 % vs. 73 %, p = 0.01). Primary care providers more commonly referred for public health insurance (74 % vs. 39 %, p = 0.001), public food assistance (30 % vs. 12 %, p = 0.04), and adult mental health services (65 % vs. 44 %, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In an urban academic institution serving a population with high poverty rates, pediatric providers feel comfortable providing medical care for low-income children but lack comfort screening and addressing SDH. Though most feel it is their job to refer to resources, less than half felt it was feasible to screen for or address financial needs. Pediatric primary care providers report higher rates of screening and referring than subspecialists. Understanding variations in practice and perceptions among primary care providers and subspecialists may aid in creating interventions to increase screening and referral rates.
Investigating the PROMIS Physical Function and Pain Interference Domains in Elite Athletes.

Background:Multiple studies have demonstrated the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to be a responsive and efficient measure for ...
Central Receiver Costs for Electric Power Generation

In the near future, solar electric power will become cost-competitive with fossil-fueled electric power generation. Several factors will lower the cost of solar generated power over time while the cost of electricity from fossil-fueled plants will tend to rise. In this paper, the cost of electricity from various generating technologies located in the southwest United States are compared using a consistent set of assumptions for utility owned plants. It is shown that while the capital cost of a solar central receiver electric plant will remain much higher than a fossil-fueled plant of the same size, the levelized energy cost from the solar plant will be the lowest cost alternative by the mid-1990’s.
The role of extrapleural pneumonectomy in malignant pleural mesothelioma. A Lung Cancer Study Group trial.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is usually a fatal cancer for which operation has been the mainstay of treatment because chemotherapy and radiation are relatively ineffective. The choice of operation for malignant pleural mesothelioma remains controversial. Extrapleural pneumonectomy has been advocated because it allows complete removal of gross tumor and can be associated with long-term survival. To evaluate extrapleural pneumonectomy, we conducted a prospective multiinsritutional trial in patients with biopsy-proved previously untreated malignant pleural mesothelioma. Criteria for extrapleural pneumonectomy were (1) potentially completely resectable unilateral disease by computed tomography scan, (2) predicted postresection forced expiratory volume in 1 second >1 L/sec, and (3) no other major medical problems. Patients who were not candidates for extrapleural pneumonectomy had a more limited operation with or without adjuvant therapy or had nonsurgical treatment From September 1985 to June 1988 83 eligible patients (64 male, 19 female) were entered. The mean age for all patients was 59.7 years. Only 20 of the 83 patients (24%) underwent extrapleural pneumonectomy. Three of these 20 patients (15%) died postoperatively. The recurrence-free survival was significantly longer for the patients undergoing extrapleural pneumonectomy than for the other two groups (p = 0.03), but there was no difference in overall survival among the three groups. In univariate analyses, epithelial versus sarcomatoid and mixed histologic findings and platelet count
The Harvard Health-Careers Summer Program

Accelerated recruitment by all medical schools is essential to the overall goal of increasing the proportion of minority-group physicians within our population. In order to succeed, this activity must be complemented with efforts to enlarge the national pool of minority students interested in the health sciences.
The balance of the evidence on acid-base homeostasis and progression of chronic kidney disease.

Normalization of acid–base homeostasis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) holds promise for mitigating disease progression, but whether efforts should focus on patients with low serum bicarbonate or high dietary acid load is unknown. Vallet et al. report that low urinary ammonia excretion independently associates with increased progression in moderate CKD. Whether this finding implicates differences in endogenous acid production or the ability to excrete an acid load in the pathogenesis of progression requires further study.
Vitamin D deficiency and bone disease in patients with Crohn's disease

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Crohn's disease and the relationship of vitamin D status to metabolic bone disease have not been fully characterized. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was measured in 82 patients with Crohn's disease; 65% of Crohn's disease patients had a low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration; 25% had deficient levels (
Two-photon imaging of a magneto-fluorescent indicator for 3D optical magnetometry

We developed an optical method to visualize the three-dimensional distribution of magnetic field strength around magnetic microstructures. We show that the two-photon-excited fluorescence of a chained donor-bridge-acceptor compound, phenanthrene-(CH2)12-O-(CH2)2-N,N-dimethylaniline, is sensitive to ambient magnetic field strength. A test structure is immersed in a solution of the magneto-fluorescent indicator and a custom two-photon microscope maps the fluorescence of this compound. The decay kinetics of the electronic excited state provide a measure of magnetic field that is insensitive to photobleaching, indicator concentration, or local variations in optical excitation or collection efficiency.
Variability of DNA analysis by image cytometry

Two laboratories equipped with CAS 200 (Becton Dickinson Image Cytometry Systems, San Jose, CA) instruments participated in this study of variability of DNA analysis of bladder tumor specimens. Formalin fixed paraffin embedded specimens were disaggregated and centrifuged onto microscope slides from ten bladder tumor specimens and two specimens of normal urothelium. Sources of variability considered were Specimen, Slide, Run, Laboratory, and Error. Slides were systematically scanned and 200 cells measured followed by the operator selecting 100 nuclei with abnormal morphology. DNA index (DI) and hyperdiploid fraction (HDF) were calculated from the DNA frequency distributions. For systematic sampling, 92% of the variability was due to Specimen indicating that differences in HDF values between specimens reflect biological differences. With selective sampling, only 67% of the variability in HDF is due to Specimen differences. Other factors, Laboratory, Error, and Laboratory x Specimen interaction each accounted for approximately 10% of the variability. Similarly variability of DI with selective sampling was also higher, and less specimen dependent than systematic sampling. It is important that sampling schemes and selection criteria be carefully documented in order to control variability. Enriched (or selective) sampling for abnormal cells has the potential to increase sensitivity but specimen classification based on these measurements must depend on determination of the frequency of such cells in the total population.
Intermediate metallic phase in VO2 observed with scanning tunneling spectroscopy

This investigation focuses on the formation of nanoscale puddles of an intermediate metallic phase (IMP) in the metal–insulator transition (MIT) temperature regime of single-crystalline vanadium dioxide (VO2) nanowires. The electronic structure of VO2 nanowires was examined with scanning tunneling spectroscopy. The evolution of the local density of states of individual nanowires throughout the MIT regime is presented with differential tunneling conductance spectra and images measured as the temperature was increased. Our results show that the formation of an IMP plays an important role in the MIT of intrinsic VO2.
Dissociative ionization of H 2 , D 2 , and HD using electron-impact excitation

Kinetic-energy distributions of ion fragments from electron-impact bombardment of ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$, and HD have been measured at electron energies between 30 and 100 eV. In the case of ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ these distributions at 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} are interpreted as resulting from excitation of two autoionizing states of ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ ($^{1}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}^{+}$ and $^{1}\ensuremath{\Pi}_{u}$) and one repulsive state of ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}^{+}(^{2}\ensuremath{\Pi}_{u})$. The shapes of the kinetic-energy distributions for ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ from ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ and ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ from ${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$ are substantially different, and a strong preference for ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ over ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ fragments from HD was observed.
P2.086 Origins of Repeat Infections with Chlamydia Trachomatis (Ct) Among Heterosexual Men in Two Southern Cities in the United States

Background Recent clinical trials have reported high repeat infection rates (12%–14%) following 1 g azithromycin. These data suggest that single-dose azithromycin may be inadequate, but high repeat infections rates could also be explained by exposure to an original or new partner or retesting before DNA clearance. The purpose of this study was to examine the origins of repeat CT infections among men. Methods Men diagnosed with Ct by Gen-Probe Aptima Combo 2 at STD clinics in New Orleans, and Jackson, Mississippi were re-tested an average of 6 weeks after treatment with single-dose azithromycin. Detailed sexual behaviour histories were collected at baseline and follow-up via computer-assisted/self-administered interview and MLST genotyping was performed. Results Of 367 men with Ct, 222 returned for a f/u visit [mean of 45 days post-baseline (s.d. 13)] and 14/217 (6.5%) were positive. Of the 14, 36% reported sexual re-exposure to a baseline partner, 14% reported sexual exposure to a new partner, 7% reported sexual exposure to both, and 43% denied sexual re-exposure. Thus far MLST genotyping completed for 3 baseline-f/up positive pairs. Two pairs with the same genotype (E/39) reported sexual re-exposure to a baseline partner and the pair with a new genotype reported sexual exposure to a new partner (D/19 to C/15). Conclusion Early repeat infection rate among men with Ct in this study was lower than recently reported and about half could be explained by sexual re-exposure. Rates in the other two studies may have been inflated by high re-exposure rates or premature testing using NAAT since many of the participants were tested before 3 weeks. Studies that examine repeat infections should consider re-exposure/new exposure and retest when DNA clearance is assured. Our data does not support high treatment failure rates for 1 g azithromycin treatment of Ct.
Horizontal spread of activity in neocortical inhibitory networks

Abstract In the presence of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) and excitatory amino acid receptor blockers, GABAergic networks in the neocortex give rise to large spontaneous GABA-mediated depolarizations. We used voltage-sensitive dye techniques to explore the network properties of depolarizing GABA responses. Voltage-sensitive dye signals demonstrated that the superficial layers support the propagation of depolarizing GABA responses, with only minimal signals detected in deeper cortical layers. GABA responses propagated at a speed of 2.7 ± 0.2 mm/s, a rate intermediate to fast synaptic transmission and spreading depression. Changes in the extracellular potassium concentration altered the propagation speed of the depolarizing GABA response. Taken together, these data support a role for both direct synaptic action of GABA at GABA A receptors and nonsynaptic mechanisms in the generation and propagation of depolarizing GABA responses.
Effectiveness of Computer‐Assisted Instruction for Teaching Consumer Credit

This study tested the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) versus supervised reading for teaching consumer credit to secondary school home eco nomics students and investigated the effects of students' IQ, grade point average, attitude toward computers, and familiarity with computers on amount of information learned by subjects taught by CAI. A random sample of 68 students, randomly assigned to experimental and control groups, was drawn from a popu lation of 10th through 12th graders in a large rural high school. Analysis of covari ance, controlling for differences in IQ and grade level, was used to test differ ences in mean gain scores of pretest, posttest, and second posttest. Results indi cated that the experimental (CAI) group learned more between pretest and both posttests than did the control group. Results of three stepwise multiple regres sion analyses indicated that student learning via CAI did not vary by IQ, GPA, attitude toward computers, or familiarity with computers, which suggests that CAI is an effective teaching method for teaching consumer credit with diverse types of high school students.
Effects of Release Factor 1 on in Vitro Protein Translation and the Elaboration of Proteins Containing Unnatural Amino Acids

An in vitro protein synthesizing system was modified to facilitate the improved, site-specific incorporation of unnatural amino acids into proteins via readthrough of mRNA nonsense (UAG) codons by chemically misacylated suppressor tRNAs. The modified system included an S-30 extract derived from Escherichia coli that expresses a temperature-sensitive variant of E. coli release factor 1 (RF1). Mild heat treatment of the S-30 extract partially deactivated RF1 and improved UAG codon readthrough by as much as 11-fold, as demonstrated by the incorporation of unnatural amino acids into positions 25 and 125 of HIV-1 protease and positions 10 and 22 of E. coli dihydrofolate reductase. The increases in yields were the greatest for those amino acids normally incorporated poorly in the in vitro protein synthesizing system, thus significantly enhancing the repertoire of modified amino acids that can be incorporated into the proteins of interest. The substantial increase in mutant protein yields over those obtained wit...
Multiple motivational goals, values, and willingness to cheat

Abstract The fundamental importance of motives, values and goals to academic behaviour has been noted by many social theorists. This paper reports the results of a survey investigation on the relationship of gender, professional career aspirations and the combined influence of materialism, religiosity, and achievement goals on students’ willingness to cheat and their self-reported cheating behaviour. Participants were high school students (grades nine through twelve) from central Thailand (N = 2123, males = 43.6% and females = 56.4%). Results of path analysis showed that materialism and performance avoidance goals associated positively with student willingness to cheat and self-reported frequency of cheating behaviour in math classrooms. Cluster analysis found that materialism and performance goal orientations differentiated all of the participants into one of two clusters: A “high willingness to cheat” cluster, comprised of a high proportion of males and students aspiring to business, accountancy, and related professions and a “low willingness to cheat” cluster, comprised of a high proportion of females and students aspiring to teaching, medicine, and related professions. Results have been discussed with respect to identity and gender role socialization theories.
Prolongation of QTc intervals and risk of death among patients with sickle cell disease

Background Unexplained sudden death is common among patients with sickle cell diseases (SCD). QTc prolongation is a risk factor for fatal arrhythmias among adults. This study sought to identify the predictors for QTc prolongation and determine whether QTc prolongation is associated with increased mortality in patients with SCD. Methods We reviewed the electrocardiograms (EKG) and the transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) of 140 consecutive adults (>18 years) with SCD from October 1996 to January of 2012. QTc prolongation was categorized into three gender-specific categories based on previous publications. Stepwise regression was performed to evaluate QTc interval and mortality as dependent variables. Hemolytic burden as reflected in laboratory evaluation, diastolic, and systolic TTE variables were included in this model. Results In a stepwise regression analysis, only increased tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRV) (r = 0.483, P = 0.015) had a significant association with QTc interval. Among 49 (35%) patients, the QTc interval was persistently prolonged (PP) (>450 ms in men, >470 ms in women). Twenty-one patients (15%) died over 9 years of follow-up. PP QTc was associated with increased mortality (HR; 8.3 with 95% CI: 2.8–24.6, P < 0.001) compared with normal QTc. In stepwise regression analysis, along with increased TRV (P = 0.005) and acute chest syndrome (P < 0.001), prolonged QTc (P = 0.004) was independently associated with increased mortality. Conclusion Prolonged QTc among the patients with SCD is an independent risk factor for increased mortality.
Ion Channels and Neuronal Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis

What causes the signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS)? It is almost axiomatic to regard MS as a demyelinating disorder in which axonal conduction block, caused by loss of myelin, produces clinical deficits. In addition, during the past few years, increased attention has focused on axonal degeneration in MS. The available evidence suggests that demyelination provides a structural correlate for relapsingremitting disease while axonal degeneration, which may be associated with atrophy of the brain and spinal cord, produces nonremitting deficits. Neurons, of course, are the ultimate