cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The impact of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) events on firm value

To date, no research has examined the impact of events related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on the value of firms with publicly traded equity, despite the importance of this legislation to the economic and legal environments of business. To examine the impact of the ADA on firm valuation, we analyse ADA-related media events associated with publicly traded firms. We find that the effects of ADA-related events are concentrated in the retail industry, where firms interact more frequently with the public. We find some evidence that positive events result in positive cumulative abnormal returns, but we do not find corresponding returns for negative events. Furthermore, we show that returns accrue to firms with positive ADA events, irrespective of firm size.
Global dispersal reduces local diversity.

Metapopulation models and stepping–stone models in genetics are based on very different underlying dispersal structures, yet it can be difficult to distinguish the behaviour of the two kinds of models. We demonstrate a striking qualitative difference in the equilibrium behaviour possible with these two kinds of dispersal. If, in a local patch, there are multiple stable equilibria (and consequently an unstable equilibrium), we demonstrate that, for the spatial system with a metapopulation structure, at equilibrium every patch has to be near one of the stable equilibria. This contrasts with the clinal structure possible with a stepping-stone or continuous space model; thus the result can be used to deduce qualitative information about the form of dispersal from observations of allele frequencies.
Brief note a routing problem for a plant nursery

Abstract A large plant nursery routinely dispatches a truck to pick up plants required to fill orders. The plants are found in various beds throughout 600 acres. This paper considers the problem of efficiently routing the truck to pick up the plants. A mathematical model is developed, and solution procedures are discussed.
The role of prior pain experience and expectations on postoperative pain

Abstract The present study was designed to examine previous pain experiences as they relate to expectations of postoperative pain. In the study, 101 patients aged 55–87 (47 men, 54 women) participated in a structured interview that examined 13 factors thought to be associated with presurgical expectations of postsurgical pain. These factors relating to prior pain experience were identified from the literature as well as the experience of clinicians in the areas of anesthesiology, nursing and psychology. The two variables that correlated significantly (multiple r = 0.51) with pain expected postoperatively were: a single item from the general attitude questionnaire about pain (pain is to be expected after surgery even with medicine) and the total of the global ratings of past pain experience. A follow-up study will examine these variables in relation to actual pain experience.
Infanticide in 19th century France: a quantitative interpretation☆

Abstract Infanticide in 19th-century France is investigated by surveying historical evidence, and by modeling socio-economic explanations of changes in secondary sex ratios, disaggregated by region and legitimacy status. The estimated seemingly unrelated regression model suggests that, while women received less than equitable access to the benefits of mechanization during the period of French industrial expansion, the need for low-wage female and child labor in the textile industry helped to significantly reduce female infanticide.
Expansion capacity of doughs: methodology and applications

An instrument for measuring the expansion capacity of dough was developed based on the application of a known negative pressure and measurement of the height reached by the dough using a dough height tracker. At a negative pressure of 74 cm of Hg, the same maximum heights were reached after expansion at all stages of processing from after mixing to end of proof. For this negative pressure (74 cm Hg), the expanded dough heights measured immediately after mixing for doughs from 9 hard and 10 soft wheat flours coincided closely with the heights reached by corresponding baked loaves (r=0.99). Pizza doughs were also found to give a good correlation with baked pizza height (r=0.78, significant at 1% level). The method was used to obtain information about the timing of the effects of bromate addition and flour lipid extraction during processing. An increase in dough expansion capacity from bromate addition was observed only after the final proofing stage. Gas cell fineness of the bread crumb, measured by CrumbScan software, was decreased by bromate addition but gas cell elongation was increased. Effects of lipid removal were different. An increase in expansion capacity occurred at all processing stages and gas cell fineness of the bread crumb was increased. Expansion capacity appears to be an inherent property of a dough and may have potential as a rapid measurement to predict baking performance.
PHOTOPHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF NUCLEIC ACID COMPONENTS—1. THE PYRIMIDINES: THYMINE, URACIL, N, N‐DIMETHYL DERIVATIVES AND THYMIDINE

— Low-temperature (and some room temperature) absorption and emission, fluorescence and phosphorescence, data including quantum yields and lifetimes have been obtained from the title pyrimidine bases as a function of the nature of the solvent environment. Modest vibrational resolution has been observed for the first time in the absorption spectra, particularly for thymine and uracil. The excitation spectra also show structure. The quantum yields of fluorescence (φF) and phosphorescence are independent of the excitation wavelength. Thymine, thymidine and uracil have profoundly different photophysical properties in polar-aprotic vs polar-protic solvents. The N, N-dimethyl substitution of thymine and uracil produces photophysical changes comparable to the solvent change for the unsubsti-tuted bases. The species involved in the emission processes is the keto (lactam) form. It is probable that 1,3(n,π*) state(s) has(have) changed order relative to a lowest 1(π,π*) state as a consequence of both the solvent change and N, N-dimethyl substitution. The lowest triplet state is assigned as 3(n π*). We propose that an important factor contributing to the previously reported excitation wavelength dependence of φF and φT1 (φisc) for nucleic-acid components is the equilibrium coexistence of H-bonded and non-H-bonded forms each having different photophysical properties. Consideration is given of the impact of the significantly different photophysical properties of nucleic-acid bases as a function of the nature of the solvent upon the photochemical properties.
Modeling of liquid metal flow and heat transfer in delivery tube during gas atomization

Abstract A numerical model is developed to describe the flow and heat transfer behavior of liquid metals in a cold delivery tube during gas atomization. Numerical calculations for liquid In, Sn, Bi, Pb, Zn and Sb are performed to investigate the influence of processing parameters and material properties on the flow and cooling of the liquid metals, and to predict the minimum melt superheat that is necessary to prevent the liquid metals from premature solidification during delivery. Processing maps are developed to provide direct insight into the complex relationship between the minimum melt superheat, processing parameters and material properties. A quantitative correlation is derived from the numerical results by means of a regression analysis, which facilitates application of the numerical model. The calculated results reveal that the overpressure, tube length/diameter ratio, ambient temperature and thermal properties of the tube and liquid metals are the important factors influencing liquid metal flow and heat transfer. For the materials studied, the minimum melt superheat ranges from 0.001Tm to 0.17Tm, depending on the processing parameters and material properties. The dependence can be expressed usnig a correlation derived from the regression analysis such as ΔT T m =0.15 μU 2 kc pρΔP T m T g 0.1 L D 0.3 Increasing the overpressure can effectively decrease the minimum melt superheat, especially for a large tube length/diameter ratio and for materials possessing low densities. The minimum melt superheat asymptotically approaches its final steady value with increasing overpressure. The minimum melt superheat can also be decreased by reducing the tube length/diameter ratio, by selecting a smooth delivery tube with low thermal conductivity and a thick tube wall, and/or by enhancing the ambient temperature. Materials with high thermal conductivity, high thermal capacity and/or large density require a small melt superheat to prevent the liquid metals from premature solidification, while materials with high melting temperature and/or high viscosity require a large melt superheat.
Institutional change in Bulgaria: A socioeconomic approach

Abstract Three years after shock therapy and related transformation policies based upon an orthodox neoclassical perspective of economies have been suggested, encouraged, and induced throughout Central and East Europe (CEE) skepticism is mounting regarding their efficacy. Faced with depressed economies and rising poverty partly caused by these policies, political authorities, economists, and interest group leaders throughout CEE are openly questioning the wisdom of such measures. This is especially true in Bulgaria. Authorities there are in a good position now to take advantage of the lessons provided by the transformation experience of other nations and the emerging body of transformation literature to develop an appropriate theory for transformation and new policies to achieve their goals. This article first presents a summary of Bulgaria's current economic, social, and political conditions. There follows an identification of lessons Bulgaria can learn from three sources: the transformation experience of CEE nations, the development experience of both wealthy Western nations and underdeveloped nations, and recent theoretical analysis of the transformation process. These lessons will serve as the basis, within an appropriate theory of technological and institutional change, for the proposed Bulgarian transformation policy.
From Government to Governance: Implications for Social Work Administration

The way in which our society governs itself has undergone a quiet revolution over the last two decades. Society is in the midst of a paradigm shift from what is known as a “government” paradigm to what is being called a “governance” paradigm. This article seeks to inform social work administrators about the importance of the shift. First, some background is provided on the “dueling paradigms” of the 1980s and 1990s, from which the governance paradigm emerged. Next, the major characteristics of the governance paradigm are identified and contrasted with the older, more established government paradigm. The implications of the governance paradigm for social work administration are then discussed. Finally, the article concludes with some thoughts about changes in the educational preparation of social work administrators required by the ascendance of the governance paradigm.
Identification and imaging of Hot O2 (v″=2, 3, or 4) in hydrogen flames using 193 nm- and 210 nm-range light

Some simple molecules can be excited by light within the tuning ranges of ArF (193–194 nm) and KrF (247.8–248.8 nm) excimer lasers and their fluorescence has been previously used for imaging. Additional wavelength ranges should become available by Raman shifting. As a demonstration, we present excitation and fluorescence spectra from hot O2 obtained (a) with tunable 193 nm-range light and (b) with that light shifted into the 210 nm range. All measurements are via predissociative upper states. In the 193 nm range, results are compared with those of Andresen's group. In the 210 nm range, the light is tuned to various excitation wavelengths in the (5 ← 3), (8 ← 4), and (7 ← 4) bands of the B–X transition. The (7 ← 4) excitations are well separated and the (7 → v″) fluoresence spectrum is in accord with Franck-Condon calculations. The wavelengths tend to overlap for the (5 ← 3) and (8 ← 4) excitations and the fluorescence is weaker. State-specific two-dimensional fluorescence images of an H2-O2 flame are obtained in both wavelength ranges to illustrate the use of the method.
Some new acidopentaamminechromium(III) complexes

Abstract A convenient and fairly general preparative method is described for obtaining Cr(III) complexes of the type Cr(NH3)5X+2. The cases of X = F, Cl, and NCS represent known compounds, and those of X = acetato, dichloroacetato, trichloroacetato, and trifluoroacetato, new compounds which have been prepared by the proposed procedure. The absorption spectral features of all of the preparations are summarized.
Detecting selection bias, using propensity score matching, and estimating treatment effects: an application to the private returns to a master’s degree

Most research in the area of higher education is plagued by the problem of endogeneity or self-selection bias. Unlike ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, propensity score matching addresses the issue of self-selection bias and allows for a decomposition of treatment effects on outcomes. Using panel data from a national survey of bachelor’s degree recipients, this approach is illustrated via an analysis of the effect of receiving a master’s degree, in various program areas, on wage earning outcomes. The results of this study reveal that substantial self-selection bias is undetected when using OLS regression techniques. This article also shows that, unlike OLS regression, propensity score matching allows for estimates of the average treatment effect, average treatment on the treated effect, and the average treatment on the untreated effect on student outcomes such as wage earnings.
Azithromycin Monthly Pulse vs Daily Doxycycline in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease seen primarily in adolescent and young adults. As the treatment involves long term therapy with antibiotics, an agent with a long half life can be very useful in increasing the compliance. To evaluate the role of a monthly dose of azithromycin and compare it with daily doxycycline, we conducted this randomized comparative study. Sixty patients with moderate to severe acne were randomly assigned to two treatment groups, A & B. Patients in group A received 100 mg doxycycline daily in addition to topical 0.05% tretinoin cream, whereas patients in group B were given 500 mg azithromycin once a day for four days per month along with 0.05% topical tretinoin for a total of 12 weeks. Of the 60 patients, 22 in group A and 28 in group B were evaluated. The monthly dose of azithromycin was found to be as effective as daily doxycycline on a pure protocol basis and statistically significantly better than doxycycline by intention to treat analysis.
Use of a state regulation for adult vaccination.

Abstract Background Influenza and pneumococcal disease are major causes of vaccine-preventable death among the elderly. In an effort to raise immunization rates, New Jersey in 1999 adopted a regulation requiring hospitals to offer pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations to all inpatients aged 65 and over. This study examined the effect of implementation strategies on immunization rates within hospitals in 2000 and 2001. Methods Hospital infection control directors were surveyed and random chart review was conducted from a stratified sample of hospitals. The infection control director's assessment of their institution's success was a major outcome measure. Results Relatively few respondents thought their hospital has been successful in implementing new immunization protocols. Approximately 67% responded that they did not think physicians agreed with the “scope and nature” of the regulation. Physician attitudes led the list of barriers to implementation cited by respondents. Chart review revealed moderate amounts of immunization assessment performed by nurses, but virtually no evidence of physicians' orders for immunization. Conclusions Thus far, there is little evidence that the New Jersey regulation has resulted in a meaningful change in pneumococcal or influenza vaccination practices.
A measurement of Lagrangian velocity autocorrelation in approximately isotropic turbulence

By measuring the heat dispersion behind a heated wire stretched across a wind tunnel (Taylor 1921, 1935), the Lagrangian velocity autocorrelation was determined in an approximately isotropic, grid-generated turbulent flow. The techniques were similar to previous ones, but the scatter is less. Assuming self-preservation of the Lagrangian velocity statistics in a form consistent with recent measurements of decay in this flow (Comte-Bellot & Corrsin 1966, 1971), a stationary and an approximately self-preserving form for the dispersion were derived and approximately verified over the range of the experiment.Possibly the most important aspect of this experiment is that data were available in the same flow on the simplest Eulerian velocity autocorrelation in time, the correlation at a fixed spatial point translating with the mean flow (Comte-Bellot & Corrsin 1971). Thus, the Lagrangian velocity autocorrelation coefficient function calculated from the dispersion data could be compared with this corresponding Eulerian function. It was found that the Lagrangian Taylor micro-scale is very much larger than the analogous Eulerian microscale (76 ms compared with 6.2ms), contrary to an estimate of Corrsin (1963). The Lagrangian integral time scale is roughly equal to the Eulerian one, being larger by about 25 %.
Collateral Circulation and Survival Related to Gradual Occlusion of the Right Coronary Artery in the Pig

Studies of survival following ligation and gradual occlusion of the right coronary artery 5 mm. from its ostium have been made in 95 pigs. The pig was selected for the experiments because its coronary artery distribution closely resembles that of the human. Gradual occlusion was produced by constrictors made of a hygroscopic plastic. Survival following gradual occlusion is considered to be due to the development of collateral circulation. Comparisons of survival have been made in untreated animals and in animals treated with an orally administered, long-acting nitrate (pentaerythritol tetranitrate). Increased survival in the animals which received medication is thought to be due to the drug's acting as an aid to collateral circulation.
Inhibition of cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 expression by glucocorticoids in rat intestinal epithelial cells.

Abstract Background & Aims: Glucocorticoids are the most potent and widely accepted anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of pathological conditions of the gastrointestinal tract in part by inhibiting the synthesis of proinflammatory prostanoids and leukotrienes. Multiple forms of phospholipase A 2 may be associated with the production of these metabolites; this study focused on the molecular mechanism(s) by which glucocorticoids control expression of the arachidonyl-selective, cytosolic phospholipase A 2 (cPLA 2 ) in intestinal cells. Methods: Northern analysis, a transcriptional assay, and enzymatic evaluation were used to access expression of the cPLA 2 gene in rat small intestinal epithelial and mouse fibroblast cell lines treated with dexamethasone. Results: Basal cPLA 2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was repressed 75% in the presence of dexamethasone with a concomitant decrease in enzymatic activity. Nuclear runoff assays showed a marked decline in de novo cPLA 2 RNA synthesis, implicating a transcriptional mechanism associated with the dexamethasone-mediated suppression of cPLA 2 . Induced expression of cPLA 2 mRNA by several proinflammatory cytokines was blocked by cotreatment with dexamethasone. Conclusions: Glucocorticoids are capable of markedly altering basal and cytokine-stimulated cPLA 2 gene expression in intestinal epithelial cells, leading to a reduction in arachidonate pools in these cells. Dexamethasone-dependent inhibition occurs through a direct reduction of de novo cPLA 2 gene transcription. GASTROENTEROLOGY 1999;116:855-864
Effects of Emotional Response on Adherence to Antihypertensive Medication and Blood Pressure Improvement

Background. Developing interventions to improve medication adherence may depend upon discovery of novel behavioral risk factors for nonadherence. Objective. Explore the effects of emotional response (ER) on adherence to antihypertensive medication and on systolic blood pressure (SBP) improvement. Design. We studied 101 adults with diabetes and hypertension. The primary outcome, 90-day “percentage of days covered” adherence score, was determined from pharmacy refill records. The secondary outcome was change in SBP over 90 days. ER was classified as positive, negative, or neutral. Results. Average adherence was 71.6% (SD 31.4%), and negative and positive ER were endorsed by 25% and 9% of subjects, respectively. Gender moderated the effect of positive or negative versus neutral ER on adherence (interaction ); regardless of gender, negative and positive ER were associated with similarly high and low adherence, respectively, but males endorsing neutral ER had significantly higher adherence than their female counterparts (85.6% versus 57.1%, F value = 15.3, ). Adherence mediated ER's effect on SBP improvement: among participants with negative, but not positive or neutral, ER, increasing adherence and SBP improvement were correlated (Spearman’s , ). Conclusions. Negative, but not positive or neutral, ER predicted better medication adherence and a correlation between medication adherence and improvement in SBP.
Comparison of Hand Assisted and Standard Laparoscopic Radical Nephroureterectomy for the Management of Localized Transitional Cell Carcinoma

Purpose: Hand assisted laparoscopy affords the surgeon tactile sensation and blunt dissection, which are currently limited using the standard laparoscopic technique. Therefore, we compared standard and hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy for localized upper tract transitional cell carcinoma.Materials and Methods: The medical records of 27 patients who underwent standard (11) or hand assisted (16) laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy between April 1998 and January 2001 were retrospectively reviewed. The parameters of efficacy, efficiency, safety and convalescence were compared.Results: Mean patient age was 64 and 66 years (p = 0.72) in the standard and hand assisted groups, and the mean American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 2.5 and 2.7 (p = 0.64), respectively. All standard and 15 of the 16 hand assisted (94%) procedures were successfully completed via laparoscopy. Total operative time was more than 1 hour shorter for hand assisted than for laparoscopic radical nephroureterec...
Nature of ergodicity breaking in ising spin glasses as revealed by correlation function spectral properties

In this Letter we address the nature of broken ergodicity in the low temperature phase of Ising spin glasses by examining spectral properties of spin correlation functions C(ij) identical with . We argue that more than one extensive [i.e., O(N)] eigenvalue in this matrix signals replica symmetry breaking. Monte Carlo simulations of the infinite-range Ising spin-glass model, above and below the Almeida-Thouless line, support this conclusion. Exchange Monte Carlo simulations for the short-range model in four dimensions find a single extensive eigenvalue and a large subdominant eigenvalue consistent with droplet model expectations.
Angiotensin II–Induced Hypertension Increases Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression in Rat Aorta

Background We investigated the in vivo effects of angiotensin (Ang) II–induced hypertension on heme oxygenase (HO) mRNA and protein expression, activity, and localization in rat aortas. Methods and Results Infusion of Ang II (0.7 mg · kg−1 · d−1) increased HO-1 mRNA levels to 169±31%, 251±47%, 339±26%, and 370±74% of the control level at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after operation, respectively. The HO-1 protein level at 7 days was markedly upregulated, as was HO activity. Treatment with either losartan (25 mg · kg−1 · d−1) or hydralazine (15 mg · kg−1 · d−1), both of which prevented the Ang II–induced hypertension, blocked HO-1 mRNA upregulation. Norepinephrine infusion (2.8 mg · kg−1 · d−1) produced a degree of hypertension and degree of HO-1 mRNA upregulation similar to those of Ang II infusion, which was again blocked by treatment with hydralazine (382±18% and 150±30% of the control level, respectively). Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that HO-1 is expressed in medial smooth muscle and adventitial c...
Game cane: An assistive 3DUI for rehabilitation games

The objective of this research is to effectively design a cane interface for assistive and rehabilitative interactions in games. Current 3D interfaces for games are not usable for many populations with physical impairments and are often not adaptable to rehabilitation exercises (e.g., balance exercise, assistive device training). To address this, we present the design of a novel cane-based 3D interface for rehabilitation games. We report results from a user study, which offers insight into the future design and potential effectiveness of canes as rehabilitation game interfaces.
Chiari I Malformation: Association With Seizures and Developmental Disabilities:

Chiari I malformation, a congenital abnormality in which deformed cerebellar tonsils are displaced downward through the foramen magnum, commonly presents in patients with headache or symptoms of dysfunction of the cerebellum, brain stem, and cervical spinal cord. We report 11 children with Chiari I malformation who presented with seizures and developmental delay in motor or language function with or without autistic features. To our knowledge, an association between Chiari I malformation and seizures or neurodevelopmental deficits or both has not been previously reported. We believe that Chiari I malformation should not be considered an incidental finding in these patients, but may be a marker for subtle cerebral dysgenesis. Chiari I and II malformations may constitute a complex but continuous spectrum, related to the timing and severity of a shared underlying embryologic mechanism.
Declines in NIH R01 research grant funding.

In association with the National Caucus of Basic Biomedical Science Chairs, we have tracked funding of R01 grants ([1][1]–[3][2]). We found an R01 decline, which slows progress in fundamental research and deters bright young people from entering science. View this table: In 2006, we reported ([3
Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus (TMEV)-Induced Demyelination: A Model for Human Multiple Sclerosis

Numerous studies suggest that a viral infection, on the appropriate genetic background, may play an important pathogenetic role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). Among the several viral models of demyelination that have been investigated during the past two decades, Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV)-induced demyelinating disease has emerged as one of the best because, similarly to MS, it is based on a combined viral-immune pathogenesis. This review highlights the following salient features of this model. TMEV-induced demyelinating disease is a chronic process, lasting for the life of the animals. Lesions consist of well-demarcated plaques of demyelination, which are strictly related to the presence of mononuclear cell infiltrates. Myelin degeneration is not due to direct viral cytopathic effects, but is rather dependent on the host immune response. Susceptibility/resistance to the disease is genetically regulated, and multiple genes both in and outside the major histocompatibility complex appear to be involved. The best immunological parameter that correlates with susceptibility is the ability of a murine strain to mount a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response to one or more viral epitopes. The importance of the DTH response against the virus in the pathogenesis of the disease is supported by the prevalent role of TH1 T-helper cells, known to be responsible for DTH responses, in inflamed CNS tissues. The role of DTH responses in the pathogenesis of demyelination is supported by the presence of numerous macrophages in affected CNS and by a direct relationship between the number of macrophages, their persistence in tissues, and the severity of lesions. Macrophages, in addition, are the main reservoir of the virus in the CNS, and their infectability correlates with susceptibility to the disease process. It is hypothesized that following the DTH response to the virus, activated lymphocytes recruit other inflammatory cells, particularly macrophages, into the infected CNS tissues. These nonspecifically recruited cells would secrete a number of proinflammatory molecules and proteases that would destroy myelin as a "bystander effect."
Less apoptosis in patients with 5q-syndrome than in patients with refractory anemia

The WHO classification of hematological malignancies includes 5q-syndrome as a separate category within myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Clinically, patients with 5q-syndrome have a milder disease than patients with other MDS. The basis for this difference is not known. Identifying 5q-syndrome can be difficult because some of its morphologic and cytogenetic features are similar to those of other MDS. We compared apoptosis between 5q-syndrome and other refractory anemias. We found lower levels of apoptosis in 5q-syndrome as detected by less disruption of mitochondrial potential (P=0.008) and decreased annexin V positivity (P=0.01). Our results suggest that lower apoptosis in 5q-syndrome may explain the milder clinical course of the disease and distinguish 5q-syndrome from other MDS.
Steam‐Volatile Components from Freeze‐Dried Beef Stored at Room Temperature

SUMMARY Volatiles obtained from freeze-dried beef by distillation with steam at ordinary pressure aided by a stream of nitrogen were collected in cooling traps. An attempt to classify the volatile components and to follow the changes in the spectrum of volatiles was carried out with both gas-liquid chromatography and chemical analysis. Some of the components resolved by gas-liquid chromatography were tentatively identified as acetaldehyde, propanal, pentanal, hexanal, acetone, methyl-mereaptan, and methyl disulfide. Hydrogen sulfide was identified by chemiTa1 analysis.
Comparison of techniques for vesicourethral anastomosis:Simple direct versus modified vest traction sutures

Radical retropubic prostatectomy has become a mainstay surgical procedure in the treatment of cancer of the prostate. There has been controversy, however, regarding the most appropriate method of vesicourethral reconstruction. We examined the records of 692 consecutive patients who underwent a radical retropubic prostatectomy from 1978 through 1984 at the Mayo Clinic. Of these, 416 patients underwent a modified Vest procedure, and in 276 patients a direct simple anastomosis was fashioned. In comparing these two methods, our review showed no substantial difference in complications, including the rate of urinary incontinence.
Breaking from the Colonial Mold: Water Engineering and the Failure of Nation-Building in the Plain of Reeds, Vietnam

While many studies have examined American nation-building or modernization campaigns from diplomatic or strategic perspectives during the Second Indochina War, few have yet to consider how pre-existing social, technological, and environmental relationships often determined a given project’s chances of success or failure. This essay examines American nation-building projects—especially reclamation and settlement programs—in the Plain of Reeds, a vast wetland area about fifty kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City that since the French conquest of Vietnam in the 1860s had been a site for rebel movements and an important target for reclamation. When American advisors arrived in 1954, they encountered not only a deeply embedded insurgency with major bases in the area but also war-damaged infrastructure and engineering agencies and private contractors still deeply influenced by colonial arrangements. This colonial mold on social and environmental relationships constrained successive American programs and played a key role in the success or failure of specific efforts on the ground.
Clinical usefulness of multiplane transesophageal echocardiography: Comparison to biplanar imaging

The increased diagnostic usefulness of multiplane over biplane transesophageal echocardiography has not yet been conclusively determined. In this study the diagnostic yield of multiplanar and biplanar imaging was compared blindly by using the information content obtained from multiplane transesophageal echocardiography to that derived from biplanar type of imaging planes available in the multiplane echocardiography recordings in 80 patients with a variety of cardiac disorders. Among these patients 9 new abnormalities were identified by multiplane transesophageal echocardiography in 8 patients. Multiplane imaging yielded better delineation of 40 various lesions in 31 patients. Thus multiplane transesophageal echocardiography has a greater diagnostic yield than biplane imaging by depicting more lesions in 10% of patients and by enhanced delineation of the extent of pathologic characteristics in 39% of patients. This versatility, coupled with the ease of obtaining a vast assembly of imaging planes without undue probe manipulations, makes multiplane transesophageal echocardiography more useful than biplanar imaging.
Contact and current noise in β-alumina and NASICON ceramics

Abstract Experimental noise spectra of β-alumina and NASICON ceramics in contact with NAI propylene carbonate solution have been investigated. The noise of virgin contacts to both solid electrolytes decays exponentially with time. Low noise contacts can be established in a few hours. The current noise spectra show ƒ −3 2 and ƒ −2 dependence in β-alumina and NASICON, indicating bulk fluctuation arising from diffusion and reactions of the activated ions, respectively. Smaller correlation effects than in sodium β″-alumina are observed which may be the result of the lower density of mobile sodium ions in the conducting lattice of both β-alumina and NASICON.
Variational methods in radiative transfer problems

An efficient variational-iterative method is applied to the problem of diffuse reflection by a plane-parallel inhomogeneous atmosphere with isotropic scattering. The emergent intensity I(τ = 0; μ, μ0) with μ = μ0 corresponds to the maximum of an associated functional. It is, however, shown that I(τ = 0; μ, μ0) computed by the variational method alone has relatively large errors when μ ≠ μ0. Such deficiencies are removed by a combined variational-iterative method. The interdependence of the iterative and variational methods is also investigated. They are shown to play a complementary role to each other. The proper choice of trial functions is emphasized in light of computational efficiency and flexibility. Two distinct classes of trial functions: the polynomials, and the step functions are investigated as possible choices of trial functions. The latter choice is shown to be far more efficient in computation. Numerical results for both approximate emergent intensities and source functions are presented and found to be in good agreement with the exact solutions. Simple analytic two-step function approximations of the source function and intensities are also presented for the case of a two-layer inhomogeneous model.
Comparison of Cellulosic Ethanol Yields from Midwestern Maize and Reconstructed Tallgrass Prairie Systems Managed for Bioenergy

Maize- and prairie-based systems were investigated as cellulosic feedstocks by conducting a 9 ha side-by-side comparison on fertile soils in the Midwestern United States. Maize was grown continuously with adequate fertilization over years both with and without a winter rye cover crop, and the 31-species reconstructed prairie was grown with and without spring nitrogen fertilization. Both maize stover and prairie biomass were harvested in the fall. We compared amounts of cellulosic biomass produced and harvested, carbohydrate contents as measured by both dietary and detergent methods, and estimated cellulosic ethanol yields per hectare. From 2009–2013, the cropping system with the largest non-grain biomass yield was fertilized prairie, averaging 10.4 Mg ha−1 year−1 aboveground biomass with average harvest removals of 7.8 Mg ha−1 year−1. The unfertilized prairie produced 7.4 Mg ha−1 year−1 aboveground biomass, with average harvests of 5.3 Mg ha−1 year−1. Lowest cellulosic (non-grain) biomass harvests were obtained from continuous maize systems, averaging 3.5 Mg ha−1 year−1 when grown with, and 3.7 Mg ha−1 year−1 when grown without a winter rye cover crop, respectively. Unfertilized prairie biomass and maize stover had equivalent dietary-determined potential biomass ethanol yields at 330 g ethanol kg−1 dry biomass, but fertilized prairie was lower at 315. The detergent method did not accurately capture these differences. Over the five-year period of the experiment, unfertilized and fertilized prairie systems averaged 810 and 1,790 L potential cellulosic ethanol ha−1 year−1 more than the maize systems, respectively. Differences in harvested biomass accounted for >90 % of ethanol yield variation.
Getting Real: Reflecting on the New Look of National Park Service Maps

To make more inviting and understandable maps for general audiences, the U.S. National Park Service has been experimenting with cartographically realistic map design. Using rasterized geodata and unconventional image processing techniques, cartographic realism draws inspiration from traditional cartographic art, modern graphic design, observations of nature, and aerial photograph maps. The aim is to combine the best characteristics of imagery and maps into a more intuitive hybrid product. Discussed techniques include aquafication, texture substitution, illuminated relief, and outside land muting.
Sequential Sampling and Analysis of Renal Hydroxylase Activities of Cattle Given 1α-Hydroxyvitamin D3

A new method was developed for sequential sampling of bovine renal cortex. This method results in minimum hemorrhage and adhesions and provides sufficient renal cortex tissue for assay of 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1 alpha-, 24-, and 23-hydroxylase activities. Application of this procedure in calves and pregnant cows treated with 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3 is described. The success of these experiments suggests these techniques could be used to follow enzyme activities that control crucial aspects of vitamin D metabolism in normal peripartum cows and cows with milk fever or other diseases of mineral metabolism.
Gastrointestinal pacing: Will it work?

Abstract The Peri-Start gastrointestinal pacemaker has been investigated in a group of twenty patients undergoing abdominal surgery, a comparable group of twenty patients being used as controls. Effective gastrointestinal activity was measured by the first passage of flatus, and in no instance was the passage of flatus accelerated by such stimulation. The average period from the time of surgery to the passage of flatus was virtually identical in both groups.
Frequency modulation detection with simultaneous amplitude modulation by cochlear implant users

To better represent fine structure cues in cochlear implants (CIs), recent research has proposed varying the stimulation rate based on slowly varying frequency modulation (FM) information. The present study investigated the abilities of CI users to detect FM with simultaneous amplitude modulation (AM). FM detection thresholds (FMDTs) for 10-Hz sinusoidal FM and upward frequency sweeps were measured as a function of standard frequency (75-1000 Hz). Three AM conditions were tested, including (1) No AM, (2) 20-Hz Sinusoidal AM (SAM) with modulation depths of 10%, 20%, or 30%, and (3) Noise AM (NAM), in which the amplitude was randomly and uniformly varied over a range of 1, 2, or 3 dB, relative to the reference amplitude. Results showed that FMDTs worsened with increasing standard frequencies, and were lower for sinusoidal FM than for upward frequency sweeps. Simultaneous AM significantly interfered with FM detection; FMDTs were significantly poorer with simultaneous NAM than with SAM. Besides, sinusoidal FMDTs significantly worsened when the starting phase of simultaneous SAM was randomized. These results suggest that FM and AM in CI partly share a common loudness-based coding mechanism and the feasibility of "FM+AM" strategies for CI speech processing may be limited.
Effect of FGF-binding protein 3 on vascular permeability.

Fibroblast growth factor-binding protein 1 (FGF-BP1 is BP1) is involved in the regulation of embryonic development, tumor growth, and angiogenesis by mobilizing endogenous FGFs from their extracellular matrix storage. Here we describe a new member of the FGF-BP family, human BP3. We show that the hBP3 protein is secreted from cells, binds to FGF2 in vitro and in intact cells, and inhibits FGF2 binding to heparin. To determine the function of hBP3 in vivo, hBP3 was transiently expressed in chicken embryos and resulted in >50% lethality within 24 h because of vascular leakage. The onset of vascular permeability was monitored by recording the extravasation kinetics of FITC-labeled 40-kDa dextran microperfused into the vitelline vein of 3-day-old embryos. Vascular permeability increased as early as 8 h after expression of hBP3. The increased vascular permeability caused by hBP3 was prevented by treatment of embryos with PD173074, a selective FGFR kinase inhibitor. Interestingly, a C-terminal 66-amino acid fragment (C66) of hBP3, which contains the predicted FGF binding domain, still inhibited binding of FGF2 to heparin similar to full-length hBP3. However, expression of the C66 fragment did not increase vascular permeability on its own, but required the administration of exogenous FGF2 protein. We conclude that the FGF binding domain and the heparin binding domain are necessary for the hBP3 interaction with endogenous FGF and the activation of FGFR signaling in vivo.
Impact of clinical pharmacy services on patients in an outpatient chemotherapy academic clinic

Background. Assessing the role of the pharmacist in an outpatient oncology clinic requires quantification of parameters that are important to the patient and the healthcare system. Patient evaluations not only serve as benchmarks for a process; but may also predict behavior such as utilization of care, continuity with the provider, and compliance.Purpose. To identify the role of the patient–pharmacist relationship and enhance patient satisfaction with care, a survey tool was developed and utilized.Methods. A 20-item, 2-page survey tool was developed and administered to oncology patients actively receiving treatment at the Cancer Therapy & Research Center (CTRC) in San Antonio, Texas. Following approval from the Investigational Review Board, survey distribution began on December 1, 2009 and continued through February 2010. Basic social and demographic data were collected. Satisfaction with pharmacy service was assessed with questions on a Likert ranking scale detailing time spent with pharmacists, knowledg...
Pediatric Facial Nerve Rehabilitation

Abstract Facial paralysis is a rare but severe condition in the pediatric population. Impaired facial movement has multiple causes and varied presentations, therefore individualized treatment plans are essential for optimal results. Advances in facial reanimation over the past 4 decades have given rise to new treatments designed to restore balance and function in pediatric patients with facial paralysis. This article provides a comprehensive review of pediatric facial rehabilitation and describes a zone-based approach to assessment and treatment of impaired facial movement.
A Logistic Model of the Seasonal Migration Decision for Elderly Households in Arizona and Minnesota

While most previous studies of elderly migration have investigated permanent migration using Census data, this paper employs household (micro) data from statewide surveys conducted in Arizona and Minnesota to analyze seasonal migration as an economic decision. Estimation of logistic regression models for each state indicate income and age are important determinants, whereas these variables have not proven significant in previous studies based on aggregate data. The results lead to the conclusion that seasonal migration may be an integral part of a life cycle of elderly migration.
The effect of thyroxin upon the general metabolism of the intact chick embryo.

MURRAY (1927) demonstrated a decrease in metabolic rate per gram of body weight with age in the normal chick embryo. The only attempt to alter the metabolic rate by the administration of thyroxin and to measure it manometrically is that of Hanan (1928). Using doses ranging from 0.033 to 0.025 microgram, Hanan detected a rise in the carbon dioxide production beginning at the seventh day. The weight accretion curve was not altered. This paper will report the effect of thyroxin injected prior to incubation on growth, differentiation and metabolic rate of the chick during the incubation period. The manometric respirometer used in this study was of the constant-pressure differential type employed by Romanoff (1941). In principle it is similar to that described by Dixon (1934) and originally suggested by Adam (1920). The eggs used in this work were of the Barred Columbian strain from the University of Connecticut poultry farm.
A REVIEW OF THE SUSTAINABILITY OF RESIDENTIAL HOT WATER INFRASTRUCTURE: PUBLIC HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, AND CONSUMER DRIVERS

Abstract Residential water heating is linked to the primary source of waterborne disease outbreaks in the United States, and accounts for greater energy demand than the combined water/wastewater ut...
Extradural Myxopapillary Ependymoma: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

The cauda equina is the most frequent location for ependymomas, particularly the myxopapillary variant, which generally arises from the filum terminale. These tumors have a characteristic histopathologic pattern and are usually easily recognized. The occurrence of these tumors in an extradural, sacrococcygeal, or subcutaneous location may prove challenging, particularly in the absence of any obvious central nervous system connection. We describe two such extradural cases, one with multiple regional and distant metastases and the other with multiple recurrences. The origin of these tumors from subcutaneous sacrococcygeal ependymal rests is postulated on the basis of earlier reports. Clinical and histopathological features are described and a review of the literature is presented.
Taking garbage collection overheads off the critical path in SSDs

Solid state disks (SSDs) have the potential to revolutionize the storage system landscape, mostly due to their good random access performance, compared to hard disks. However, garbage collection (GC) in SSD introduces significant latencies and large performance variations, which renders widespread adoption of SSDs difficult. To address this issue, we present a novel garbage collection strategy, consisting of two components, called Advanced Garbage Collection (AGC) and Delayed Garbage Collection (DGC), that operate collectively to migrate GC operations from busy periods to idle periods. More specifically, AGC is employed to defer GC operations to idle periods in advance, based on the type of the idle periods and on-demand GC needs, whereas DGC complements AGC by handling the collections that could not be handled by AGC. Our comprehensive experimental analysis reveals that the proposed strategies provide stable SSD performance by significantly reducing GC overheads. Compared to the state-of-the-art GC strategies, P-FTL, L-FTL and H-FTL, our AGC+DGC scheme reduces GC overheads, on average, by about 66.7%, 96.7% and 98.2%, respectively.