cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An ab initio molecular orbital study of the potential energy surface of the N2H → N2 + H system

Abstract The N 2 H potential energy surface has been examined by ab initio molecular orbital theory using the 6-31G ** basis set with correlation energy evaluated by Moller—Plesset perturbation theory to fourth order. The Δ E for N 2 H → N 2 + H is −14.4 kcal mol −1 and the barrier to dissociation is 10.5 kcal mol −1 . Inclusion of zero-point vibrational energies reduces the barrier to 5.8 kcal mol −1 .
Myocardial fibrosis assessment by semiquantitative, point-counting and computer-based methods in patients with heart muscle disease: a comparative study.

Aims: No study has directly compared different histomorphometric methods of quantification of myocardial fibrosis. Therefore we compared the results of semiquantitative, point-counting and computer-based methods in the assessement of myocardial fibrosis in a consecutive series of endomyocardial biopsy samples from patients with heart muscle disease. Methods and results: Histological samples (at least three per patient) were obtained by endomyocardial biopsy from 11 patients with focal myocarditis and from 24 ambulatory patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, or during surgery in 10 patients who underwent partial left ventriculectomy. Samples were cut and stained with Masson-trichrome for better contrast. From each sample, a representative field was digitized, and the amount of fibrosis was assessed by semiquantitative scoring, by point-counting, and by computer-based software. Semiquantitative scoring correlated with both point-counting (Spearman's r = 0.69, P < 0.0001) and computer-based (Spearman's r = 0.83, P < 0.0001) methods. There was also a good correlation between point-counting and computer-based methods (r = 0.71, P < 0.0001). However, when compared with the point-counting method, the computer-based method overestimated percent fibrosis by 3.0 ± 6.7% (P = 0.004). This overestimation correlated with the mean percent fibrosis (r = 0.38, P = 0.014). Conclusions: Our data show good correlations between the three methods of myocardial fibrosis assessment. However, systematic differences between them emphasize that this should be taken into consideration when comparing results of the studies using different methods of fibrosis assessment.
Mapping the uninsured using secondary data: an environmental justice application in Dallas

Over the last 5 years, environmental justice (EJ) researchers have been calling for incorporation of health outcomes more directly into spatial studies of socio-demographics and environmental hazards. To date, researchers have not incorporated insurance status (an access to health care variable) in their models although access to care likely has an important association with the probability of health effects due to environmental exposures. As such, insurance status represents an important variable within spatial EJ studies focused on health, and the lack of spatially explicit access to care data is a critical limitation in the field. As a solution, we offer a method of using uninsured appendicitis cases, acquired secondarily from state hospital admissions data, to estimate rates of uninsurance at the zip-code level. We apply the technique to explore relationships between cancer risk from hazardous air pollutants and estimated rates of uninsurance, a previously unexplored phenomenon. Then, we compare the uninsurance findings to those related to poverty to illustrate how uninsurance, as a variable, compares to a more traditional socio-economic predictor used in EJ studies. The relationship between cancer risk from hazardous air pollutants and uninsurance is weaker than the relationship between risk and poverty, but both are statistically significant. As such, we conclude with a discussion of the importance of considering insurance status in spatial studies of EJ focused on health.
Cigarette Smoke Activates NFκB and Induces Muc5b Expression in Mouse Middle Ear Cells

Objectives—Cigarette smoke exposure is a significant risk factor in the development of otitis media (OM). Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is a ubiquitous transcription factor known to mediate cigarette smoke effects on gene regulation in multiple cell types. The MUC5B mucin gene contains several putative NF-κB sites in its promoter and is the predominant mucin expressed in human OM. We hypothesized that in vitro stimulation of a recently developed model system, murine middle ear epithelial cells (MEEC), with cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) activates NF-κB and subsequently induces Muc5b gene expression. Methods—Luciferase reporter assays, electromobility shift assays (EMSA), and quantitative microplate transcription factor assays (TFA) were performed to evaluate NF-κB activation with CSC in immortalized murine MEEC (mMEEC). Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) assays and quantitative real time RT-PCR were performed to determine whether time course CSC stimulation upregulates Muc5b mRNA levels in differentiated mMEEC. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to determine whether CSC activates the Muc5b promoter. Results—Reporter assays, EMSA, and TFA demonstrated three- to five-fold dose-dependent activation of NF-κB with CSC in mMEEC. CSC stimulation likewise increased Muc5b mRNA abundance and induced reporter activity 1.8- to 4.8-fold in plasmids containing −556 and −255 base pairs upstream of the Muc5b transcriptional start site in mMEEC. Conclusions—CSC activates NF-κB in immortalized MEEC. Furthermore, this activation correlates with CSC-induced Muc5b promoter activation and gene expression. Taken together, these results hint that much as in lung cells, the activation of mucins by cigarette smoke is mediated in part by NF-κB.
The search for an optimal interval between pretreatment dose of d-tubocurarine and succinylcholine.

A study was conducted to determine the optimal interval between the administration of d-tubocurarine (dTc) and succinylcholine (SCh) with regard to onset and duration of neuromuscular block and presence of fasciculations and postoperative myalgias.
Fluorinated deoxyglucose positron emission tomography imaging in progressive metastatic prostate cancer

Abstract Objectives. To correlate the abnormalities on computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and bone scan with fluorinated deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in patients with progressive metastatic prostate cancer, using a lesion-by-lesion analysis, and to preliminarily explore post-treatment changes in standard uptake value (SUV) with changes in prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Methods. A lesional analysis compared abnormalities on FDG-PET with those on CT/MRI or bone scan. Patients had rising PSA levels and progressive disease according to the imaging findings. Changes in the SUV were compared with the PSA changes in patients who had serial scans after treatment. Results. One hundred fifty-seven lesions in 17 patients were examined; 134 osseous lesions were evident on PET and/or bone scan, 95 lesions (71%) were evident on both, 31 (23%) were seen only on bone scan, and 8 (6%) were seen only on PET (adjusted McNemar’s chi-square = 8.32, P = 0.004). All but one of the lesions seen only on bone scan were “stable” compared with the previous bone scans. All lesions seen only on PET proved to be active disease on subsequent bone scans. Twenty-three soft-tissue lesions were present on CT/MRI or PET, or both; 9 (39%) lesions were evident on both and 14 (61%) were evident only on one imaging modality. In 9 (75%) of 12 cases in which serial PET scans were available, the SUV changed in parallel with the PSA level. Conclusions. FDG-PET can discriminate active osseous disease from scintigraphically quiescent lesions in patients with progressive metastatic prostate cancer, but it is limited in detecting soft-tissue metastases. Post-treatment changes in the SUV tend to correlate with changes in PSA.
A Multivariate Exponential Distribution

Abstract A number of multivariate exponential distributions are known, but they have not been obtained by methods that shed light on their applicability. This paper presents some meaningful derivations of a multivariate exponential distribution that serves to indicate conditions under which the distribution is appropriate. Two of these derivations are based on “shock models,” and one is based on the requirement that residual life is independent of age. It is significant that the derivations all lead to the same distribution. For this distribution, the moment generating function is obtained, comparison is made with the case of independence, the distribution of the minimum is discussed, and various other properties are investigated. A multivariate Weibull distribution is obtained through a change of variables.
Bioethics and the political distortion of biomedical science.

In late September 2001, I was asked to serve on the President's Council on Bioethics. My initial instinct was not to accept, because I was concerned that the Bush Administration would not be interested in considering fully the potential of certain controversial advances in basic biomedical research. Indeed, the administration was already on record as opposing federal funding for somatic-cell nuclear transplantation and therapeutic cloning. (Therapeutic cloning involves making early-stage preimplantation embryos for use as sources of stem cells, whereas reproductive cloning is the creation of cloned babies through the transfer of cloned embryos into a woman's uterus.) Two factors, . . .
The Constancy of Leopold's Land Ethic

Aldo Leopold's approach to environmental man- agement changed drastically between the early 1920s, when he advocated predator eradication, and 1944, when he drafted "Thinking Like a Mountain. " How are we to under- stand these changes? It is shown that, early in his career, Leopold developed the basic elements of a conservation ethic, borrowing key ele- mentsfrom the Russian organicistP. D. Ouspensky andfrom
Visual cortical neurons as localized spatial frequency filters

This paper relates to the receptive field properties of neurons in the primary visual cortex, i.e. the striate cortex, to current issues in spatial visual information processing. Particular attention is given to the fact that receptive field profiles of simple cells in the visual cortex often resemble even-symmetric or odd-symmetric Gabor filters; i.e. their receptive field profiles can be described by the product of a Gaussian and either a cosine or sine function. Their spatial frequency tuning is of medium bandwidth (~one octave) which is narrow enough for a cell to distinguish the third harmonic from the fundamental frequency for square-wave gratings of low spatial frequency. The responses of adjacent simple cells, tuned to the same spatial frequency, orientation, and direction, differ in their phase response to drifting sine-wave gratings by approximately either 90° or 180°. This latter result makes it possible to consider two adjacent simple cell pairs as operating like paired Gaussian-attenuated sine and cosine filters of Gabor filters for restricted regions of visual space. The entire set of simple cells provides a complete representation of the visual scene, yet each simple cell is unique in its response properties. At the complex cell stage, the cell's mean firing rate appears to represent the amplitude of a local Fourier coefficient, but phase information is seldom conveyed with much precision in the action potential code.
A natural approach to some cosmological problems

Abstract It is shown that the cosine potential energy naturally induced in theories with an antisymmetric rank two tensor field, provides a framework for understanding both inflationary cosmology and large scale structure. A new scenario for producing large scale structure, based on the late time effect of the Hawking temperature during inflation, is also proposed.
Too much of and less than a good thing: implications for managing IT professionals

The management of information technology (IT) professionals is an important managerial concern. The way that IT organizations manage their IT professionals is essentially manifested in their implementation of human resource management (HRM) practices, such as those related to work environment and career development opportunities, social support, compensation, and employment security. This paper briefly introduces person-environment (P-E) fit theory to explore what an IT professional wants from an employment arrangement and what is supplied by the employer. However, a criticism of P-E fit theory is that it does not specify the form of the relationship between P-E fit and other constructs, such as satisfaction and job search. In order to address this gap, the paper investigates both equity theory and prospect theory as possible explanations. Ultimately, prospect theory is used to develop illustrative hypotheses. The paper then describes the methodology that will be used to test these hypotheses. The results of the tests, when completed, will be used to suggest directions for managing IT professionals and future IT HRM theory development and testing.
Designing Basic Programs for Special Needs Plus General Proficiency

Students who begin the study of a foreign language in college are typically placed together in an omnibus course, regardless of individual professional and educational aims. This paper recommends that the basic courses be restructured, with separate tracks for students pursuing language study for differen t purposes. Three possible tracks are outlined: one for language majors, another for students preparing for international professions, and a third for students who need to fulfill the expectations implied by a language requirement. The Languages for International Professions Program at Arizona State University is described as an example for the preprofessional track
Advances in MR imaging for cervical spondylotic myelopathy

To outline the pathogenesis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), the correlative abnormalities observed on standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the biological implications and current status of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and MR spectroscopy (MRS) as clinical tools, and future directions of MR technology in the management of CSM patients. A systematic review of the pathogenesis and current state-of-the-art in MR imaging technology for CSM was performed. CSM is caused by progressive, degenerative, vertebral column abnormalities that result in spinal cord damage related to both primary mechanical and secondary biological injuries. The T2 signal change on conventional MRI is most commonly associated with neurological deficits, but tends not to be a sensitive predictor of recovery of function. DTI and MRS show altered microstructure and biochemistry that reflect patient-specific pathogenesis. Advanced imaging techniques, including DTI and MRS, show higher sensitivity to microstructural and biochemical changes within the cord, and may aid in management of CSM patients.
Estimation of a bivariate distribution function from incomplete observations

Kaplan and Meier (1958) give a maximum likelihood estimator of the distribution function based on a univariate right censored sample-Here we investigate the extension of their results to the case of bivariate right censored samples. Following Efron (1967), we provide "self-consistent" estimators for the bivariate distribution function.
Estimation of NBTI Degradation using IDDQ Measurement

Negative bias temperature instability (NBTI) has emerged as a major reliability degradation factor in nano-scale CMOS technology. In this paper, we analyze the impact of NBTI degradation in both the maximum operating frequency (fMAX) and the total standby leakage current (IDDQ) of digital CMOS circuits. Our analysis shows that due to NBTI, both fMAX and IDDQ reduce with time with a fix exponent of 1/6 (~t1/6). Based on this analysis, we develop temporal fMAX-IDDQ model and apply it to several ISCAS'85 benchmark circuits designed using BPTM 70nm file. Results show that fMAX and IDDQ can reduce by more than 8% and 30% in 3 years operation time, respectively. Furthermore, we show that fMAX and IDDQ degradations are highly correlated throughout the operating lifetime, and using this fact, one can avoid expensive fMAX testing and predict fMAX degradations as a function of IDDQ measures.
Perceptions of compliance with the profession’s ethical standards that address religion: A national study

Professional interest in spirituality and religion is growing. In light of this growth, the ethical standards designed to guide social workers' conduct in the area of religion have never been more important. This article explores perceptions of compliance with the profession's ethical standards that address religion among a sample of graduate students (N=303) affiliated with the National Association of Social Workers. Findings indicated relatively high levels of compliance. These perceptions were independent of a number of demographic, spiritual, and religious variables. Implications for social work education and practice are discussed.
Fungal colonization of exotic substrates in Antarctica

Throughout the history of polar exploration and up to recent times, wood and other exotic materials have been brought to the Antarctic continent and left there. While the possible transportation of exotic fungal species on these materials is sometimes considered, the effects of these exotic substrates on indigenous fungal communities have not been previously evaluated. This study reports results from seven plots where organic materials were used in baiting studies to determine the fungal diversity present in soils. Four plots were on islands in the Palmer Archipelago on the Antarctic Peninsula and three at Ross Island, Antarctica. Samples of sterile wood and cellulose with and without nutrients added were buried in soil and left for either two or four years before being removed and evaluated for fungal colonization. There was a significant increase in fungal colony-forming units (CFU) from soil in direct contact with introduced, sterile wood and cellulose substrates compared to background soil levels. The type of substrate, 2 or 4 year incubation period in the field, or nutrient addition did not have a significant effect on culturable densities in soil. Fungal abundance on soil adhering to substrates was found to be similar to that found in non-polar soils indicating that lack of organic material may be the most significant limiting factor affecting densities of Antarctic fungal populations. Based on a high degree of colonization, these exotic substrates appear to have a significant effect on indigenous soil fungal abundance.
Aromatic residues link binding and function of intrinsically disordered proteins

We have searched for intermolecular aromatic pairs in 77 protein–protein complexes of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) to understand the role of π–π interactions in protein–protein interactions involving IDPs. We found that 40% of the complexes possess at least one intermolecular pair of aromatic residues. Analysis of composition, characteristics, location and the contribution to the free energy of binding showed that π–π interactions substantially contribute to binding by working as anchor residues, conformational locks, and ready-made recognition motifs required for specific binding. By using available experimental data we show that π–π interactions play a variety of roles that link binding of IDPs and their function in the cell. The results presented in this study pave the way to understand in atomic detail the inner workings of IDPs interaction networks.
The maternal hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in the third trimester of human pregnancy

OBJECTIVE The third trimester of pregnancy is characterized by a mildly hyperactive hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, possibly driven by elevated circulating levels of corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) of placental origin. In-vitro studies have demonstrated that glucocorticoids and oestrogen stimulate while progesterone inhibits the expression of CRH mRNA and/or protein, suggesting that several potential interactions between the placenta and the HPA axis may exist. DESIGN AND PATIENTS To investigate the detailed pattern of circulating immunoreactive (ir) CRH, ACTH, cortisol, oestradiol and progesterone during the third trimester of pregnancy, plasma samples were drawn serially every 30 minutes from 22 healthy pregnant women (age 32.0 ± 1.1 years, mean ± SE) between the 34th and 36th week of gestation. Ten women had plasma samples drawn between 0800 h and 2000 h (daytime group), and 12 between 2000 h and 0800 h (night-time group). The hormone concentrations obtained were analysed for pulsatility by the Detect program, for detection of circadian rhythmicity by comparison between the first and second 6-hour periods within each group by Student's t-test, and for time-dependent correlations by cross-correlation analysis. RESULTS All five hormones were secreted in a pulsatile fashion. There was no apparent circadian rhythm of CRH or oes tradiol secretion, whereas there was a clear circadian rhythm in plasma ACTH, cortisol and progesterone secretion, with the latter in reverse phase (P<0.05). No significant correlations were observed between CRH and ACTH, whereas, as expected, ACTH and cortisol concentrations were strongly correlated with each other over time (r=0.32 and 0.70 at lag time 30 minutes for the daytime and night-time groups, respectively), with ACTH leading cortisol. A weak positive correlation was observed between CRH and cortisol concentrations for the night-time group at lag time 0 minute, suggesting that the latter may have a positive effect on the former in vivo CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that placental CRH, although pulsatile, drives quantitatively the maternal HPA axis in the third trimester of pregnancy in a non-circadian, non-pulsatile fashion. The maternal HPA axis is probably driven in a circadian and pulsatile fashion by another major ACTH secretagogue, most likely AVP of parvocellular paraventricular nucleus origin.
Optimization of combustion kinetic models on a feasible set

Abstract We introduce a new approach to optimizing combustion models by constraining the optimization not only to parameter uncertainties but also to the uncertainties in experimental data. Doing so assures that the best-fit solution produces a model whose predictions deviate the least from the experimental targets while remaining within their experimental uncertainties. The new method is built using the uncertainty-quantification framework of Data Collaboration, and hence allows one to examine the influence of parameter and experiment uncertainties on the optimal solution, and to identify experimental targets that are most difficult to match as well as model parameter values that are likely to be questionable. The proposed methodology is flexible to formulate a variety of objectives and thus to answer seemingly heuristic questions. The technique is demonstrated employing the GRI-Mech 3.0 kinetic model and 76 experimental targets.
Solid state evidence for π-complexation of sodium cation by carbon–carbon double bonds

Solid state evidence shows that neutral double bonds, attached to flexible sidearms of a lariat ether, serve as intramolecular π-donors for a ring-bound Na+ cation.
Effect of Female Culling and Age Distribution of the Dairy Herd on Profitability

Abstract Deterministic models were used to simulate four female culling systems: (1) selection at birth on estimated breeding value, (2) selection on estmated breeding value based only on the cow's own records, (3) selection of the youngest cows, and (4) selection during first lactation on estimated breeding value. Milk yield was the only trait considered in selection. Each cow selection system was replicated with three sire selection systems. The physical inputs and outputs from each system were evaluated economically in factorial groups of rearing costs, milk and feed prices over twenty 13-mo periods. Within sire systems 1 and 2 (from populations making approximately 1% of the mean genetic improvement each 13 mo), cow system 3 had the slowest rate of genetic and phenotypic improvement. Although differences in rate of improvement among the other three systems were small, cow system 2 usually had the fastest rate of genetic and phenotypic improvement. Within sire system 3 (approximately 2% genetic improvement per period), the rank of cow system 1 declined and the rank of cow system 3 improved because of the shorter generation interval. In the medium economic classes, system 2 usually, but not always, excelled in net profit; rate of gain in profit was proportional to the rate of gain in milk yield for all systems. At the high rearing cost, however, system 1 was the most profitable even with less production than systems 2 and 4. This resulted from the lower cow depreciation cost associated with system 1. At the low rearing cost, the systems ranked the same as they did for milk production: 2, 4, 1, 3.
Multiple androgenic abnormalities, including elevated free testosterone, in hyperprolactinemic women.

To investigate the basis of the hirsutism and elevated plasma dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) and/or DHA sulfate (DHAS) in hyperprolactinemic women, we measured androgen binding parameters and an extensive profile of plasma androgens in normal (NL) and hyperprolactinemic women (HYPRL). ACTH tests and dexamethasone (dex) suppression tests were performed in subgroups. Free testosterone levels were higher in HYPRL (13.1 ± 2.3 vs. 7.18 ± 0.72 pg/ml; P < 0.025), although total testosterone was comparable. This disparity was related to plasma testosterone- estradiol-binding globulin (TEBG) levels being one third lower in HYPRL (mean ± SE, 27.4 ± 4.0 nM) than in NL (41.2 ± 3.7 nM; P < 0.0125). Less striking elevations of plasma DHAS, androstenedione, and 11-deoxycortisol were found in HYPRL. Plasma total dihydrotestosterone [17β-hydroxy-5α-androstan-3-one (tDHT)7] was nearly 30% lower in HYPRL (11.2 ± 2.6 ng/dl) than in NL (15.6 ±1.3 ng/dl; P < 0.025), whereas free DHT was normal. Ratios of tDHT to precursors were ...
Sensitivity to Perceived Facial Trustworthiness Is Increased by Activating Self-Protection Motives:

Self-protection motives have been documented to influence a range of intergroup processes, including biased categorization of racially ambiguous targets as out-group members and a heightened ability to discriminate in-group from out-group members. In this work, the influence of self-protective states is extended to interpersonal processes. Specifically, in two experiments we demonstrate that activating self-protection motives (relative to a control experience) leads to more accurate detection of facial cues associated with trustworthiness. In Experiment 1, participants with salient self-protection concerns were better able to distinguish between faces pre-rated as appearing high and low in trustworthiness. In Experiment 2, we used dynamic cues associated with trustworthiness and found that participants with active self-protection goals more accurately distinguished genuine from false smiles. These results are among the first to document the influence of self-protection motives on interpersonal judgments, thereby expanding the scope and focus of fundamental motives research.
Design and synthesis of α-conotoxin GID analogues as selective α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists

The α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is an important target for currently approved smoking cessation therapeutics. However, the development of highly selective α4β2 nAChR antagonists remains a significant challenge. α-Conotoxin GID is an antagonist of α4β2 nAChRs, though it is significantly more potent toward the α3β2 and α7 subtypes. With the goal of obtaining further insights into α-conotoxin GID/nAChR interactions that could lead to the design of GID analogues with improved affinity for α4β2 nAChRs, we built a homology model of the GID/α4β2 complex using an X-ray co-crystal structure of an α-conotoxin/acetylcholine binding protein (AChBP) complex. Several additional interactions that could potentially enhance the affinity of GID for α4β2 nAChRs were observed in our model, which led to the design and synthesis of 22 GID analogues. Seven analogues displayed inhibitory activity toward α4β2 nAChRs that was comparable to GID. Significantly, both GID[A10S] and GID[V13I] demonstrated moderately improved selectivity toward α4β2 over α3β2 when compared with GID, while GID[V18N] exhibited no measurable inhibitory activity for the α3β2 subtype, yet retained inhibitory activity for α4β2. In this regard, GID[V18N] is the most α4β2 nAChR selective α-conotoxin analogue identified to date. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 102: 78–87, 2014.
Hardware requirements for optical circuit switched data center networks

Based on measurements of a prototype, we identify hardware requirements for improving the performance of hybrid electrical-packet-switched/optical-circuit-switched data center networks.
A Monetary Target Model: The Case of Taiwan

This paper proposes a methodology to estimate the monetary target and the probability of monetary intervention in Taiwan. The methodology is based on the estimation of a regime switching model. Empirical results show that a target band between 0.95 and 2.17 percent per month has been in effect, and most often the monetary authority has followed a non-interventionist policy. It is probable that the monetary authority engaged in an expansionary policy when intervention was warranted. Adjustments of the rediscount rate by the central bank were found to be consistent with the magnitude of the intervention pressure as predicted by the model.
Growing the representation of women in leadership: A business imperative IBM Microelectronics' PowerUp initiative

Over its 101 year history, IBM has had a strong commitment to diversity and the advancement of women. IBM hired women before women could vote in the United States, had documented CEO commitment to “same work for equal pay” decades before the Equal Pay Act, and had a woman Vice President in 1943. At IBM the commitment to diversity has been not just a moral imperative, but a business imperative.
Opting in to Online Professionalism: Social Media and Pediatrics

* Abbreviations: AMA — : American Medical Association The Council on Medical Student Education in Pediatrics (COMSEP) is committed to excellence in medical student education in pediatrics. This article continues our series on skills of, and strategies used by, great clinical teachers. Kind et al argue that the digital world provides a great opportunity for clinical educators to promote and enhance student education and model professionalism. They provide resources and tips to get started using this domain . —Susan Bannister, MD Editor-in-Chief, COMSEP Monthly Feature Social media can be described as a digital space for creating and sharing information with others, disseminating it widely and rapidly.1 It can extend real-life learning and relationships into a shared space to foster online connections and learning. Physicians and physicians-in-training are entering this digital environment with little guidance on best practices. Professionalism lapses online can have consequences not only for individuals but also for public trust in the medical profession.2 And yet, when used well , social media enriches the personal and professional lives of clinicians and learners. We’ll consider the risky (red) zone, the safe but go slow (yellow) zone, and the opt in to opportunity (green) zone to explain the challenges students may face and to outline how to teach and model professionalism in the use of social media. Several studies describe social media use by medical students,3,4 physicians,5,6 and medical educators.7 In 2012, 67% of online adults reported using Facebook, 20% LinkedIn, 16% Twitter, 15% Pinterest, 13% Instagram, and 6% Tumblr.8,9 These and other platforms allow users to connect through words, photos, audio, or videos in various ways: privately or publicly, synchronously or asynchronously, and uni- or multidirectionally. There are also less public avenues, such … Address correspondence to Terry Kind, MD, MPH, Children’s National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20010. E-mail: tkind{at}childrensnational.org; [@kind4kids][1] (Twitter) [1]: http://www.Twitter.com/kind4kids
The Impact of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy on the Histopathological Assessment of Thymomas: A Clinicopathological Correlation of 28 Cases Treated with a Similar Regimen

Twenty-eight patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy for invasive thymoma are presented. The patients were 16 men and 12 women between the ages of 23 and 75 years (mean = 50.8 years). All patients were treated with a similar modality consisting of three courses of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, cisplatin, and prednisone prior to their surgical resection. Grossly, all tumors were ill-defined invasive masses ranging in size from 5 to 18 cm in greatest dimension. Histological evaluation of the resected tumors showed a gamut of histological features, including necrosis, cystic changes, hemorrhage, histiocytic proliferation, calcifications, and cholesterol cleft granulomas in varying proportions. In addition, we found that some histological types of thymoma appeared to be affected less by neoadjuvant chemotherapy, while others, mainly those tumors with a more prominent lymphocytic component, showed more extensive histological changes. Based on the results of this study, it appears that the response to induction chemotherapy in thymomas may be determined by the histological characteristics of the tumor, with treatment-related changes being present predominantly in cases in which the tumor had a prominent lymphocytic component (WHO type B1 and B2), while tumor viability was highest in cases where the histological type corresponded to spindle cell and atypical thymomas (WHO types A and B3, respectively). In addition, it has to be noted that the histological changes attributed to treatment effect may also be seen in untreated tumors thereby not allowing for definitive separation of treated from nontreated thymomas.
Manipulating the Calcium Receptor

1In the current issue of JASN , Goodman et al . ([1][1]) describe their latest results from calcimimetic treatment. The ongoing investigations into the safety and use of these agents give promise of better management of the calcium/phosphate/bone metabolism problems that continue to trouble
Cost-effectiveness analysis of prenatal population-based fragile X carrier screening.

Objective To investigate the cost-effectiveness of a widespread prenatal population-based fragile X carrier screening program. Study design A decision tree was designed comparing screening versus not screening for the fragile X mental retardation protein 1 premutation in all pregnant women. Baseline values included a prevalence of fragile X mental retardation protein 1 premutations of 3.3 per 1000, a premutation expansion rate of 11.3%, and a 99% sensitivity of the screening test. The cost of the screening test was varied from $75 to $300. A sensitivity analysis of the probabilities, utilities, and costs was performed. Results The screening strategy would lead to the identification of 80% of the fetuses affected by fragile X annually. Assuming the cost of $95 per test and only one child, the program would be cost effective at $14,858 per quality-adjusted life-year. The screening strategy remained cost effective up to $140 per test and 1 child per woman or for 2 children per woman up to a cost of $281 per test. Conclusion Population-based screening for the fragile X premutation may be both clinically desirable and cost effective. Prospective pilot studies of this screening modality are needed in the prenatal setting.
Development and Implementation of a Hospital-Acquired Pressure Ulcer Incidence Tracking System and Algorithm

Abstract: Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) are a national concern due to patient morbidity, treatment cost, and reimbursement issues. Stages III and IV pressure ulcers (PUs) that occur during hospitalization are among the conditions considered preventable by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Harborview Medical Center (HMC), located in Seattle, WA, is a Level 1 trauma/burn center and safety net hospital serving diverse populations. HMC is committed to providing excellence in care including optimal skin care and PU prevention to people from all walks of life. At HMC a new system for monitoring daily PU incidence, completing monthly multidisciplinary intensive reviews on HAPUs, and application of an algorithm used to determine if HAPUs were avoidable was developed and implemented. This system has assisted HMC in addressing PU tracking, prevention, compliance with regulatory mandates and has improved skin-related outcomes.
Influence of Pheromone Trap Color on Capture of Lilac Borer Males

Color is important in optimizing capture rate of male lilac borers, Podosesia syringae (Harris), in pheromone traps. Significantly more moths were captured with black, brown, or red traps than with other trap colors tested. White traps were consistently poorest. Painting dark-colored traps with a contrasting band did not increase their effectiveness. Although dark-colored Pherocon® 1C traps were up to five times more effective than standard white traps, traps painted on the exterior only failed to catch significantly more borers than did solid white traps. These findings appear to result from attraction and orientation of pheromone-stimulated males to dark shapes, rather than male hesitancy to enter a white trap. The role of visual stiumli in the searching behavior of male clearwing moths is discussed.
Quantifying alosine prey in the diets of marine piscivores in the Gulf of Maine

The objectives of this work were to quantify the spatial and temporal distribution of the occurrence of anadromous fishes (alewife Alosa pseudoharengus, blueback herring Alosa aestivalis and American shad Alosa sapidissima) in the stomachs of demersal fishes in coastal waters of the north-west Atlantic Ocean. Results show that anadromous fishes were detectable and quantifiable in the diets of common marine piscivores for every season sampled. Even though anadromous fishes were not the most abundant prey, they accounted for c. 5-10% of the diet by mass for several marine piscivores. Statistical comparisons of these data with fish diet data from a broad-scale survey of the north-west Atlantic Ocean indicate that the frequency of this trophic interaction was significantly higher within spatially and temporally focused sampling areas of this study than in the broad-scale survey. Odds ratios of anadromous predation were as much as 460 times higher in the targeted sampling as compared with the broad-scale sampling. Analyses indicate that anadromous prey consumption was more concentrated in the near-coastal waters compared with consumption of a similar, but more widely distributed species, the Atlantic herring Clupea harengus. In the context of ecosystem-based fisheries management, the results suggest that even low-frequency feeding events may be locally important, and should be incorporated into ecosystem models.
Causes and Imaging Patterns of Tree-in-Bud Opacities

Background Multiple causes for tree-in-bud (TIB) opacities have been reported. However, to our knowledge the relative frequencies of the causes have not been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative frequency of causes of TIB opacities and identify patterns of disease associated with TIB opacities. Methods Cases with TIB opacities in the radiology report in 2010 were identified by searching the Radiology Information System. Medical records and CT scan examinations were reviewed for the causes of TIB opacities. Patterns of disease associated with TIB opacities were evaluated. Results Causes for TIB opacities were established in 166 of 406 (40.9%) cases. Respiratory infections (119 of 166, 72%) with mycobacteria (65 of 166, 39%), bacteria (44 of 166, 27%), viruses (four of 166, 3%), or multiple organisms (six of 166, 4%) were most common. Aspiration was the cause in 42 of 166 (25%). Alternating areas of normal lung with regions of small airways disease (TIB opacities, bronchiectasis) (random small airways pattern) was specific (0.92) for Mycobacterium avium complex infection. Nearly uniform distribution of bronchiectasis (widespread bronchiectasis pattern) was specific for "diseases predisposing to airway infection" (specificity 0.92), such as cystic fibrosis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, and immunodeficiency states. Consolidation and TIB opacities (bronchopneumonia pattern) were usually due to bacterial infection or aspiration. Dependent distribution (specificity 0.79) and esophageal abnormality (specificity 0.86) with TIB opacities were associated with aspiration. Chronicity of findings was associated with mycobacterial infection (P Conclusions TIB opacities are most often a manifestation of infections or aspiration. Patterns of disease can provide clues to the most likely diagnosis.
Stick Numbers and Composition of Knots and Links

We address the concept of stick number for knots and links under various restrictions concerning the length of the sticks, the angles between sticks, and placements of the vertices. In particular, we focus on the effect of composition on the various stick numbers. Ultimately, we determine the traditional stick number for an infinite class of knots, which are the (n,n-1)-torus knots together with all of the possible compositions of such knots. The exact stick number was previously known for only seven knots.
Echinocandin pharmacodynamics: review and clinical implications

Echinocandins have made a significant impact in the treatment of select invasive fungal infections, most notably invasive candidiasis and aspergillosis. However, treatment outcomes for such infections are still less than optimal, prompting an examination of dosing and administration techniques in an attempt to exploit known pharmacodynamic properties and improve outcomes. Echinocandins generally exhibit concentrationdependent, fungicidal activity against Candida spp. and fungistatic activity against Aspergillus spp. However, increasing drug concentrations of echinocandins above the organism’s MIC may result in a paradoxical increase in fungal growth as demonstrated in some in vitro and in vivo models (known most commonly as the ‘Eagle effect’). Therefore, the potential impact of dose escalations on improving the clinical efficacy of echinocandins based on in vitro and animal models are uncertain and are still being evaluated. In addition, such strategies have to consider the potential for increased treatment-related toxicities and costs. To date, published clinical studies (both superiority and non-inferiority) demonstrating the potential for dose-related improvements in treatment outcomes have been limited to mucocutaneous and oesophageal candidiasis. Further research is needed to determine if a role exists for optimizing echinocandin pharmacodynamics in various clinical settings.
Three-dimensional photolithographic micropatterning: a novel tool to probe the complexities of cell migration

In order to independently study the numerous variables that influence cell movement, it will be necessary to employ novel tools and materials that allow for exquisite control of the cellular microenvironment. In this work, we have applied advanced 3D micropatterning technology, known as two-photon laser scanning lithography (TP-LSL), to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels modified with bioactive peptides in order to fabricate precisely designed microenvironments to guide and quantitatively investigate cell migration. Specifically, TP-LSL was used to fabricate cell adhesive PEG-RGDS micropatterns on the surface of non-degradable PEG-based hydrogels (2D) and in the interior of proteolytically degradable PEG-based hydrogels (3D). HT1080 cell migration was guided down these adhesive micropatterns in both 2D and 3D, as observed via time-lapse microscopy. Differences in cell speed, cell persistence, and cell shape were observed based on variation of adhesive ligand, hydrogel composition, and patterned area for both 2D and 3D migration. Results indicated that HT1080s migrate faster and with lower persistence on 2D surfaces, while HT1080s migrating in 3D were smaller and more elongated. Further, cell migration was shown to have a biphasic dependence on PEG-RGDS concentration and cells moving within PEG-RGDS micropatterns were seen to move faster and with more persistence over time. Importantly, the work presented here begins to elucidate the multiple complex factors involved in cell migration, with typical confounding factors being independently controlled. The development of this unique platform will allow researchers to probe how cells behave within increasingly complex 3D microenvironments that begin to mimic specifically chosen aspects of the in vivo landscape.
The structure of ill-structured solutions: boundary objects and heterogeneous distributed problem solving

The paper argues that the development of distributed artificial intelligence should be based on a social metaphor, rather than a psychological one. The Turing Test should be replaced by the “Durkheim Test,” that is, systems should be tested with respect to their ability to meet community goals. Understanding community goals means analyzing the problem of due process in open systems. Due process means incorporating differing viewpoints for decision-making in a fair and flexible manner. It is the analog of the frame problem in artificial intelligence. From analyses of organizational problem solving in scientific communities, the paper derives the concept of boundary objects, and suggests that this concept would be an appropriate data structure for distributed artificial intelligence. Boundary objects are those objects that are plastic enough to be adaptable across multiple viewpoints, yet maintain continuity of identity. Four types of boundary object are identified: repositories, ideal types, terrain with coincident boundaries, and forms.
Low correlations between dividends and returns: the Alitalia 's case

In financial modeling, the return from dividends over the long term has been a significant contributor to the total returns produced by equity securities [1][2][3]. There is an abundance of empirical evidence which suggests that portfolios consisting of higher dividend yielding securities produce returns that are attractive with respect to lower yielding portfolios and to overall stock market returns over long measurement periods. Nevertheless, the dynamic of returns for equity securities with low (or no) dividend, over the medium period, shows some intriguing features. Which conditions lead to high returns? Which agent-based micro model can be used to explain the macro dynamic of returns? We study the value of Alitalia's stocks, in the period from October the 22-nd 2002 to October the 22-nd 2007. We use an agent-based model, based on chartist and fundamentalists behavior. We could sketch the results into two categories. 1. For low profitability firms (low or no dividends) we found distinctive variations in autocorrelations functions of returns just before growth of returns. 2. We use a novel qualification for returns, the return's closeness, to explain these variations on the whole the performance of returns.