cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A pilot study of lymphotrophic nanoparticle-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging technique in early stage testicular cancer: a new method for noninvasive lymph node evaluation.

Abstract Objectives To evaluate whether lymphotrophic nanoparticle-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (LNMRI) can be used as a method for detecting metastatic disease within retroperitoneal nodes in patients with testicular cancer. Methods Stage I testicular cancer patients were prospectively enrolled and underwent a pelvic MRI both before and 24 hours after intravenous ferumoxtran-10 administration. Nodal sampling was performed by computed tomography-guided biopsy or laproscopic surgery and reviewed by a pathologist without knowledge of the LNMRI results. Results In 18 patients, 42 nodes were sampled, of which 25 were benign and 17 were malignant. The sensitivity of LNMRI for malignant lymph node involvement was 88.2%, specificity was 92%, and the accuracy was 90.4%. On the other hand, the sensitivity of size criteria for detecting malignant nodes was 70.5%, the specificity was 68%, and the accuracy was 69%. Conclusions Lymphotrophic nanoparticle-enhanced MRI is safe and accurate for detecting nodal metastases in patients with testicular cancer. Lymphotrophic nanoparticle-enhanced MRI yields higher sensitivity and specificity when compared with unenhanced MRI or conventional CT scanning. Although our results are encouraging, the precise role of this tool in early stage testicular cancer remains to be determined.
Multivariate prediction of in-hospital mortality associated with coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Northern New England Cardiovascular Disease Study Group.

BACKGROUNDA prospective regional study was conducted to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality among patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). A prediction rule was developed and validated based on the data collected.METHODS AND RESULTSData from 3,055 patients were collected from five clinical centers between July 1, 1987, and April 15, 1989. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict the risk of in-hospital mortality. A prediction rule was developed on a training set of data and validated on an independent test set. The metric used to assess the performance of the prediction rule was the area under the relative operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Variables used to construct the regression model of in-hospital mortality included age, sex, body surface area, presence of comorbid disease, history of CABG, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, ejection fraction score, and priority of surgery. The model significantly predicted the occurrence of in-hos...
Gene regulation, quantitative genetics and the evolution of reaction norms

The ideas of phenotypic plasticity and of reaction norm are gaining prominence as important components of theories of phenotypic evolution. Our understanding of the role of phenotypic plasticity as an adaptation of organisms to variable environments will depend on (1) the form(s) of genetic and developmental control exerted on the shape of the reaction norm and (2) the nature of the constraints on the possible evolutionary trajectories in multiple environments. In this paper we identify two categories of genetic control of plasticity: allelic sensitivity and gene regulation. These correspond generally to two classes of response by the developmental system to environmental change: phenotypic modulation, in which plastic responses are a continuous and proportional function of environmental stimuli and developmental conversion, where responses tend to be not simply proportional to the stimuli. We propose that control of plasticity by regulatory actions has distinct advantages over simple allelic sensitivity: stability of phenotypic expression, capacity for anticipatory response and relaxation of constraints due to genetic correlations. We cite examples of the extensive molecular evidence for the existence of environmentally-cued gene regulation leading to developmental conversion. The results of quantitative genetic investigations on the genetics and evolution of plasticity, as well as the limits of current approaches are discussed. We suggest that evolution of reaction norms would be affected by the ecological context (i.e. spatial versus temporal variation, hard versus soft selection, and fine versus coarse environmental grain). We conclude by discussing some empirical approaches to address fundamental questions about plasticity evolution.
Bivariate Latent Variable Models for Clustered Discrete and Continuous Outcomes

Abstract We use the concept of a latent variable to derive the joint distribution of a continuous and a discrete outcome, and then extend the model to allow for clustered data. The model can be parameterized in a way that allows one to write the joint distribution as a product of a standard random effects model for the continuous variable and a correlated probit model for the discrete variable. This factorization suggests a convenient approach to parameter estimation using quasi-likelihood techniques. Our approach is motivated by the analysis of developmental toxicity experiments for which a number of discrete and continuous outcomes are measured on offspring clustered within litters. Fetal weight and malformation data illustrate the results.
The effect of nifedipine on skin flap survival in rats

Maintaining the viability of an extended skin flap remains one of the continuing challenges in reconstructive surgery. As flaps lengthen, viability becomes more unpredictable and necrosis of distal segments can occur. The specific mechanisms involved in determining flap survival remain unclear, but vasoconstriction within the flap microcirculation appears to play a significant role in regulating flap viability. Vasodilators have been used, with limited success, in an attempt to improve survival of ischemic skin flaps in rats. One such agent, nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, demonstrated conflicting results when used to improve rat skin flap survival, despite its potent vasodilating properties. A standard rat flap model was used to help clarify the potential of nifedipine to salvage ischemic skin flaps. Alterations in flap perfusion were assessed using a laser Doppler flowmeter and dermofluorometry in an attempt to characterize nifedipine's mechanism of action on flap preservation. Increased flap survival was demonstrated in treatment animals when compared to controls. Despite significant improvement in flap viability, perfusion measurements failed to confirm increased flow within the flap microcirculation. Although the mechanisms of action remain speculative, nifedipine may have important therapeutic potential in improving skin flap survival in a clinical setting.
On the Size of the Fe II-emitting Region in the AGN Arakelian 120

We present a reverberation analysis of the strong, variable optical Fe II emission bands in the spectrum of Ark 120, a low-redshift AGN which is one of the best candidates for such a study. On timescales of several years the Fe II line strengths follow the variations in the continuum strength. However, we are unable to measure a clear reverberation lag time for these Fe II lines on any timescale. This is due to the very broad and flat-topped nature of the Fe II cross-correlation functions, as compared to the Hβ response, which is much more sharply localized in time. Although there is some suggestion in the light curve of a 300 day response time, our statistical analysis does not pick up such a feature. We conclude that the optical Fe II emission does not come from a photoionization-powered region similar in size to the Hβ-emitting region, but we cannot say for sure where it does come from. Our results are generally consistent either with emission from a photoionized region several times larger than the Hβ zone, or with emission from gas heated by some other means, perhaps responding only indirectly to the continuum variations.
Patent Foramen Ovale: Echocardiographic Detection and Clinical Relevance in Stroke

This article reviews the main clinical aspects of patent foramen ovale (PFO), such as its prevalence in the population, the diagnostic techniques to detect its presence, its role as a risk factor for ischemic stroke of otherwise unexplained origin, and its controversial association with migraine. Some cofactors possibly involved in the association between PFO and stroke are discussed, along with the various therapeutic options to prevent recurrent cerebral ischemic events in stroke patients with a PFO.
Average channel capacity for RAKE receivers

The average channel capacity (in the Shannon sense) assigned to each user of a spread spectrum system operating in Rayleigh fading is estimated when optimum operation of a maximal ratio combining Rake receiver is assumed. As is shown, the derived expression fully conforms to the upper bound for the capacity of an ideal non-fading additive white Gaussian noise channel when the transmitted signal bandwidth tends to infinity, i.e. the Shannon limit, proving the validity of the presented analysis.
Interaction of Curing Temperature and Inherent Maturity Distributions on Descriptive Flavor of Commercial Grade Sizes of Florunner Peanuts

Abstract Windrow-dried Florunner peanuts were harvested and then cured with ambient air (maximum 35 C), ambient +8.4 C increase, and ambient +16.8 C increase in commercial drying operations. Peanuts from the drying wagons were stored inshell as farmers stock or shelled and then cold stored approximately five months before sensory evaluation. A panel trained in peanut flavor descriptive analysis evaluated peanuts from all commercial grade sizes which had been roasted to similar color. Differences between cold- and farmers stock-stored peanuts were not statistically significant and data were thus combined. Curing treatments produced differences in descriptive terms roasted peanutty, fruity fermented and sour. Fruity fermented intensity was noticeably higher in the medium and No. 1 grade sizes from the higher curing temperatures and roasted peanutty decreased in the No. 1 grade with increasing temperature. Significant differences in intensity of seven descriptors were consistently found among the grades with...
Skipping to new gene therapies for muscular dystrophy.

An approach that aims to correct RNA improves muscle function in a mouse model of a disease particularly recalcitrant to gene therapy: Duchenne muscular dystrophy ( pages 1009–1014 ).
Cytochemistry of peroxisomal enzymes in microbodies of the midgut of the honey bee, Apis mellifera

Abstract 1. 1. Ultrastructural analyses of the ventricular epithelium of the midgut of 5-day-old worker honey bees, Apis mellifera, revealed columnar cell microbodies. 2. 2. The peroxisomal marker enzymes, catalase and l -α-hydroxy acid oxidase, were localized in these microbodies which previously had been defined as holocrine secretory granules involved in dietary mineral regulation. 3. 3. Morphological and cytochemical assays suggest that the holocrine secretory granule arises from a microperoxisomal compartment involved in intermediary metabolism in the midgut of young adult honey bees.
Content Analysis of Online Discussion Forums: A Comparative Analysis of Protocols

The discussion forum is a significant component of online courses. Instructors and students rely on these asynchronous forums to engage one another in ways that potentially promote critical thinking, meaningful problem sovving, and knowledge construction. In spite of the importance of these forums, predominantly used methods for assessing the content and outcomes of these forums has often been limited to frequency counts and other quantitative measures. Only recently have researchers developed protocols for conducting meaningful qualitative analysis of online discussion forums. This study compares the application of two content analysis protocols for online discussion boards by applying both to the content of a one-week student-led discussion. Our analysis provides a detailed description of how to use both protocols and evaluates each for its strengths and weaknesses toward the overall goal of providing educators and researchers with valid tools for assessing discussion forum content.
Immunocytochemical analysis of the coiled body in the cell cycle and during cell proliferation.

Abstract Coiled bodies (CBs) are small, round structures found in the nucleoplasm of most eukaryotic cells. Human autoantibodies to a 80-kDa protein, p80-coilin, are immunohistologic markers for CBs. A polyclonal rabbit antiserum (R288) raised against recombinant p80-coilin was shown to have similar immunochemical properties as human autoantibodies and was used to analyze the expression of p80-coilin-associated CBs in cell cultures synchronized by double thymidine block, nocodazole arrest, serum starvation, or hormonal deprivation. By employing thymidine block and nocodazole arrest of HeLa cells, CBs were observed in immunofluorescent studies to be largest in size in the S and G2 phases of the cell cycle. These large CBs might have coalesced into one or two such structures per cell from smaller and more numerous CBs of three to eight per cell during the mid G1 phase of the cell cycle. No CB-like structures were observed in mitosis and early G1. However, immunoblotting analyses showed that the total amount of p80-coilin remained approximately the same throughout the cell cycle. When HeLa cells were separated into soluble and particulate fractions, p80-coilin was detected predominantly in the soluble fraction in mitosis and early G1, whereas it was present predominantly in the particulate fraction in late G1, S, and G2 when structurally distinct CBs were observed. In the analysis of CBs in two experimental models of cell proliferation (reversal of 3T3 serum starvation and FRTL-5 thyrotropin deprivation), proliferating cells contained larger, brighter, and more numerous CBs as well as a > 2-fold increase in the total amount of p80-coilin compared to that in quiescent cells. The expression of p80-coilin in quiescent cells induced to proliferate and the cyclic formation and breakdown of CBs might be consistent with the notion that CBs may be specialized centers related to the maturation of mRNA, but this evidence is indirect and needs further definitive study.
TORC2-dependent protein kinase Ypk1 phosphorylates ceramide synthase to stimulate synthesis of complex sphingolipids

Plasma membrane lipid composition must be maintained during growth and under environmental insult. In yeast, signaling mediated by TOR Complex 2 (TORC2)-dependent protein kinase Ypk1 controls lipid abundance and distribution in response to membrane stress. Ypk1, among other actions, alleviates negative regulation of L-serine:palmitoyl-CoA acyltransferase, upregulating production of long-chain base precursors to sphingolipids. To explore other roles for TORC2-Ypk1 signaling in membrane homeostasis, we devised a three-tiered genome-wide screen to identify additional Ypk1 substrates, which pinpointed both catalytic subunits of the ceramide synthase complex. Ypk1-dependent phosphorylation of both proteins increased upon either sphingolipid depletion or heat shock and was important for cell survival. Sphingolipidomics, other biochemical measurements and genetic analysis demonstrated that these modifications of ceramide synthase increased its specific activity and stimulated channeling of long-chain base precursors into sphingolipid end-products. Control at this branch point also prevents accumulation of intermediates that could compromise cell growth by stimulating autophagy.
Technologies for an Autonomous Wireless Home Healthcare System

We present a design study highlighting our recent technological developments that will enable the implementation of autonomous wireless sensor networks for home healthcare monitoring systems. We outline the power requirements for a commercially available implantable glucose sensor which transmits measurements to an external wireless sensor node embedded in the home. A network of these sensor nodes will relay the data to a base station, such as a computer with internet connection, which will record and report this data to the user. We explore the feasibility of powering these sensors using energy scavenging from both body temperature gradients and vibrations in the home, and discuss our developments in energy storage and low power consuming hardware.
Single Triangle Strip and Loop on Manifolds with Boundaries

The single triangle-strip loop generation algorithm on a triangulated two-manifold presented by Gopi and Eppstein (2004) is based on the guaranteed existence of a perfect matching in its dual graph. However, such a perfect matching is not guaranteed in the dual graph of triangulated manifolds with boundaries. In this paper, we present algorithms that suitably modify the results of the dual graph matching to generate a single strip loop on manifolds with boundaries. Further, the algorithm presented by Gopi and Eppstein (2004) can produce only strip loops, but not linear strips. We present an algorithm that does topological surgery to construct linear strips, with user-specified start and end triangles, on manifolds with or without boundaries. The main contributions of this paper include graph algorithms to handle unmatched triangles, reduction of the number of Steiner vertices introduced to create strip loops, and finally a novel method to generate single linear strips with arbitrary start and end positions
Adsorption phenomena in the NAD+/NADH system at glassy carbon electrodes

A variety of electrochemical approaches has been used to investigate the adsorption of NAD*, NADH and the NAD-NXD dimer from aqueous solution at glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) with supplementary studies of adsorption at pyrolytic graphite and platinum electrodes from aqueous media and at GCE from DMSO solution. The following hypotheses are advanced concerning the adsorption orientation: at carbon electrodes, on which NADH is not adsorbed, NAD’ produced by anodic oxidation of the NADH is first rapidly adsorbed in a planar configuration relative to the electrode surface, which is probably bound to the surface through the adenine moiety; there is then a relatively slow reorientation of the adsorbed NADH molecules to a perpendicular orientation relative to the electrode surface, which adsorbate is more tightly bound to the surface than the planar oriented adsorbate and which likely involves interaction between parallel adenine and pyridinium rings. Reduction (oneelectron-process) of NAD* at the GCE produces the NAD-NAD dimer, which, at a clean electrode surface, involves a diffusion-controlled process and an adsorption-controlIed process; the latter is due to formation of adsorbed dimer, which is more strongly adsorbed than NAD*. The dimer is oxidized at the GCE only if it is adsorbed_ The factors controlling and involved in the adsorption processes have been examined with particular reference to the use of anodic voltammetry for the analytical determination of NADH.
Impact of the supplementation of kidney mass on blood pressure and progression of kidney disease

Background. To test the hypothesis that nephron mass is an independent determinant of arterial pressure, the effects of augmenting renal mass by isograft transplantation were studied in the model of secondary hypertension. Methods. The effects of isograft transplantation or sham operation on blood pressure, proteinuria, remnant kidney mass, glomerular filtration rate and glomerulosclerosis were assessed in 5/6 nephrectomized (5/6 NPX) rats. Results. Systolic blood pressure was lowered on average by � 35 mmHg and glomerular hyperfiltration was attenuated in the remnant kidneys of transplant recipients. Markedly lower urinary protein excretion rates and glomerulosclerosis scores in the remnant kidney accompanied these supplemental transplants to values roughly one-third of those from sham-operated rats. Conclusions. The data show that reduced renal mass per se is the major factor in the development and maintenance of arterial hypertension and glomerular injury in 5/6 NPX rats and these changes can be reversed by supplementing renal mass. The data provide strong support for the notion that renal mass is a significant, independent determinant of arterial pressure.
Endpoint position control using biological concepts

A biologically inspired algorithm is refined for position control of a multilink robotic manipulator. In this approach, changes in joint angles are computed by a method of successive forward approximation in a manner that is naturally parallel and very simple. Improvements to the algorithm provide nearly uniform convergence for all motions regardless of direction and location in the workspace. Neural networks may be used to further improve trajectory control. >
Close genetic linkage between diabetes mellitus and kidd blood group.

Abstract 27 polymorphic genetic markers were analysed for possible linkage with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). The data set contained 71 families with at least one affected member each. Under three different genetic models for IDDM, evidence was found for linkage between the disease and two distinct sets of marker loci: three markers on chromosome 6 (HLA, properdin factor B, and glyoxalase-1), and the Kidd blood group locus. The families apparently do not fall into two groups, one exhibiting linkage to the HLA complex and the other to the Kidd locus. Thus, two distinct disease- susceptibility loci may be involved in the inheritance of IDDM.
Effect of sample clock jitter on IF-sampling IS-95 receivers

The development of inexpensive, wideband, high dynamic range ADCs has made feasible a new class of receivers based on direct IF undersampling techniques. This type of receiver architecture is characterized by high intermediate frequencies (IFs), often in the 100-250 MHz range. At these IFs the conventional theory shows that for non-spread modulation schemes a small amount of sample clock jitter can lead to significant phase modulation of the desired signal thus limiting the SNR at the ADC output. Unfortunately, the same theory cannot be directly applied to spread spectrum (SS) systems in which the IF SNR is very low. This paper shows that, neglecting adjacent channel interference, the principal effect of sample clock jitter in direct-sequence SS receivers is to reduce chip coherency during despreading. Results are derived relating the loss of receiver performance to the IF frequency and the ADC sample clock single-sideband phase noise density to carrier ratio. These results are then used to define sample clock jitter requirements for an exemplary IS-95 IF-sampling receiver.
Energy Efficient Techniques for Cooperative Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radios

This paper proposes two energy-efficient techniques suitable for cooperative spectrum sensing for cognitive radios. Cooperative spectrum sensing collects information from different users to make final decisions. The simplest information to be collected is the decision of each user, and this method is analogous to voting. First of all, we propose a voting scheme based on users' own confidence. Users vote only when they are confident about their spectrum sensing results. Simulation results show that about 10% to 40% of transmission energy can be saved compared to traditional voting schemes. Secondly, we propose a cluster-collect-forward scheme to save energy spent on vote-collection and information exchange. This scheme relies on clustering for vote-collection, and combing and forwarding for information propagation. Our scheme shows significant energy saving from 65% to over 95% compared to the broadcasting scheme. Besides, the processing time is only about half of the broadcasting scheme. Finally, these two proposed techniques can be easily combined to further improve the overall performance.
A review of commensal rodents and their control

(1973). A review of commensal rodents and their control. C R C Critical Reviews in Environmental Control: Vol. 3, No. 1-4, pp. 405-453.
Market power analysis in the EEX electricity market: An agent-based simulation approach

In this paper, an agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) approach is used to model the German wholesale electricity market. The spot market prices in the European Energy Exchange (EEX) are studied as the wholesale market prices. Each participant in the market is modeled as an individual rationality-bounded agent whose objective is to maximize its own profit. By simulating the market clearing process, the interaction among agents is captured. The market clearing price formed by agentspsila production cost bidding is regarded as the reference marginal cost. The gap between the marginal cost and the real market price is measured as an indicator of possible market power exertion. Various bidding strategies such as physical withholding and economic withholding can be simulated to represent strategic bidding behaviors of the market participants. The preliminary simulation results show that some generation companies (GenCos) are in the position of exerting market power by strategic bidding.
Enteral Feeding Patients With Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Patients with upper gastrointestinal obstructions were previously managed with gastric decompression and parenteral feeding. The authors present their experience in 50 patients with obstructions chiefly due to complicated severe acute (n = 31) or chronic cystic pancreatitis (n = 11) using a double-lumen nasogastric decompression and jejunal feeding tube system (NGJ) held in place with a nasal bridle that passes through the obstructed gastroduodenal segments, allowing distal jejunal feeding, and at the same time decompresses the stomach to prevent vomiting and aspiration. The tip of the jejunal tube was placed approximately 40 cm down the jejunum to maintain pancreatic rest. Duration of feeding ranged from 1-145 days (median 25 days); 19 patients were discharged home with tube feeds. Only 1 patient could not tolerate feeding and needed to be converted to parenteral feeding. Average tube life was 14 days, with replacement being needed most commonly for kinking or clogging of the jejunal tube (56%) or accidental dislodgement (24%). The obstruction resolved spontaneously in 60%, allowing resumption of normal eating. Of the patients with severe acute pancreatitis or pancreatic pseudocysts, pancreatic rest resulted in resolution of the disease without surgery in 87%, and need for surgery in the remainder was put off for 31-76 days. Seven patients died predominantly of complications of acute pancreatitis between 1 and 31 days. In conclusion, NGJ feeding provides a relatively safe conservative management for critically ill patients with upper gastrointestinal obstructions, reducing the need for surgery and parenteral feeding.
Evolving Role of Modern Structural and Functional MR Imaging Techniques for Assessing Neuropsychiatric Disorders.

Abstract Structural and functional MR imaging techniques play an important role in the modern assessment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Applications of MR imaging are reviewed for several types of mental illness. Morphometric MR imaging, functional MR imaging, and diffusion tensor MR imaging all make unique contributions to the evolution of basic understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness.
Theoretical study of relations between bay-region and K-region indices of carcinogenicity

It has been recognized for several years that the K-region index of Pullman and the bay-region carbocation delocalization energy (BCDE) of Jerina and co-workers are quantitatively correlated since they both succeed about equally well in rank-ordering the same class of molecules for degree of carcinogenicity. However, the underlying reasons for the correlation of these indices has been a puzzle since they refer to different (though related) molecules, and also to different regions on the molecules. In this study we first demonstrate that the K regions of a molecule can be distinguished as being “primitive” or “nonprimitive,” and that it is the primitive K regions that best correlate with BCDE. We then subject both BCDE and primitive K-region indices to a perturbational molecular orbital (PMO) analysis and demonstrate the existence of a formal correlation between their values. From this demonstration we obtain two interesting insights. The first is an understanding of the connection between overall molecular topology and magnitude of these indices (for example, why is a bay region more “active” when attached to a long straight chain of rings than when attached to a shorter straight chain or to a bent chain?). The second is the recognition that certain methyl substitutions must have correlated effects on these two indices while other methyl substitutions have uncorrelated effects.
Small Nodules Detected on Chest Radiography: Does Size Predict Calcification?

Study objectives: To determine whether the likelihood of lung nodule calcification can be predicted from nodule size as measured on a chest radiograph (CXR). Design: Retrospective review of CXRs of patients with lung nodules 7 mm in diameter (27 of 61 nodules [44%]; p < 0.005). Radiographs of 42 of the smallest nodules visualized on CXRs by the initial readers later were examined prospectively by different readers who did not have access to the CT images. Thirty of 33 of the calcified nodules (91%) but only 3 of 9 of the noncalcified nodules (33%) were detected (p < 0.005). These readers also recorded 40 additional small nodules that were not seen on CT scans, which were considered to be false-positives. Conclusions: Nodules detected on CXRs that measure < 7 mm in size are likely to be calcified or to represent a false-positive finding. (CHEST 2000; 118:610 ‐ 614)
Genetic Diversity of Chile (Capsicum Annuum Var. Annuum L.) Landraces from Northern New Mexico, Colorado, and Mexico

Abstract Four hundred years of chile (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) cultivation, together with concerns about losing genetic resources in their native agrohabitats, provide the pretext for collecting and preserving landraces of this species in New Mexico. The molecular analysis of these accessions provided a powerful means by which their genetic structures were characterized. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) molecular markers were used to compare the relative genetic diversity of native chile landraces to the genetic diversity found in commercially available cultivars in the United States as well as landraces from Mexico.
Overcoming Treatment Resistance in Depression

Treatment-resistant depression is commonly encountered by mental health professionals. Strategies for the treatment of resistant depression, including augmentation strategies and switching antidepressants, are reviewed. The potential advantages and disadvantages of each of these strategies are discussed.
Digital File Sharing and the Music Industry: Was There a Substitution Effect?

Several empirical studies exist that measure the impact of filesharing services on music sales, and most suggest that there was a negative impact on sales. Still, most of these studies do not examine (at the household level) whether consumers substituted out of music and into movies. This paper uses micro-level data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey (1998 through 2003) to test for this possible substitution effect. The data do not support the hypothesis that music consumers spent less on music because they spent more on either movie tickets or prerecorded movies (purchases or rentals).
Excellent Patient Care Processes in Poor Hospitals? Why Hospital-Level and Patient-Level Care Quality-Outcome Relationships Can Differ

Studies finding weak or nonexistent relationships between hospital performance on providing recommended care and hospital-level clinical outcomes raise questions about the value and validity of process of care performance measures. Such findings may cause clinicians to question the effectiveness of the care process presumably captured by the performance measure. However, one cannot infer from hospital-level results whether patients who received the specified care had comparable, worse or superior outcomes relative to patients not receiving that care. To make such an inference has been labeled the “ecological fallacy,” an error that is well known among epidemiologists and sociologists, but less so among health care researchers and policy makers. We discuss such inappropriate inferences in the health care performance measurement field and illustrate how and why process measure-outcome relationships can differ at the patient and hospital levels. We also offer recommendations for appropriate multilevel analyses to evaluate process measure-outcome relationships at the patient and hospital levels and for a more effective role for performance measure bodies and research funding organizations in encouraging such multilevel analyses.
Maryland's Affordable Housing Land Trust Act

On May 20, 2010, Maryland’s governor, Martin O’Malley, signed the Affordable Housing Land Trust Act (AHLT Act) into law. Its enactment marked the culmination of six years of advocacy by the University of Baltimore Community Development Clinic and by the Maryland Asset Building and Community Development Network. The AHLT Act authorizes a new method of creating and sustaining permanently affordable homeownership. By using the affordable housing land trust agreements outlined in the legislation, Maryland nonprofits and governmental agencies may now enter into enforceable long-term agreements with publicly subsidized low- and moderate-income homeowners to ensure that their homes remain affordable to other income-qualified homebuyers in the future. With the development of this essential tool for the creation of permanently affordable homes, Maryland has addressed key obstacles to preserving the affordable housing gains it has made through its pioneering efforts in community-based nonprofit housing development and inclusionary zoning.This article will explore the legal obstacles that advocates of permanently affordable homeownership in Maryland faced prior to this year’s statutory amendments, the dialogue that produced the final bill, and the way forward for permanently affordable housing in Maryland and elsewhere. Part I will give background about efforts to create permanently affordable homes and the difficulties presented by several legal doctrines common to many states and one unique to Maryland. Focusing on the legislation itself, Part II will describe the advocacy effort and stakeholder dialogue as well as the resulting bill that addressed a variety of concerns raised by the indefinite dedication of land to affordable homeownership. Part III will discuss how existing models of resale restrictions used by community land trust and inclusionary zoning programs can be adapted to meet the affordable housing land trust approach outlined in the statute. The article concludes with a discussion about the value of possible changes in the law of other states to support stewardship of housing affordability.
A Theoretical Model of Institutional Pluralism and Institutional Change

Institutional theorists are only beginning to systematically predict the influence of pluralism (Pache & Santos, 2011). Building on Besharov & Smith’s (in press) theory of institutional complexity, this paper aims to help fill that gap by linking the type of pluralism to the source and process of institutional change. I propose that different manifestations of pluralism (Besharov & Smith, in press) can explain and predict both the source of field-level institutional change, as well as the process through which embedded organizations or individuals, referred to as institutional actors, are likely to experience the change processes. In doing so, the paper develops a nascent theory of pluralistic change.
Changes in permeability of dog tracheal epithelium in response to hydrostatic pressure

We tested the hypothesis that, in asthma, the airway epithelial damage and leakage of blood proteins into the lumen are the result of edema and raised submucosal hydrostatic pressure. Sheets of dog tracheal epithelium were mounted in Ussing chambers, and the effects of transepithelial hydrostatic pressure differences (delta P) on conductance (G), [3H]mannitol flux (Jman), and fluorescein isothiocyanate-albumin flux (Jalb) were determined. delta P values of 20 cmH2O directed from the mucosal to submucosal side of the tissue (m----s) had no significant effects on G, Jman, Jalb, or tissue ultrastructure. delta Ps----m caused increases in conductance (G) with a maximal effect at approximately 20 cmH2O. delta Ps----m of 20 cmH2O significantly (P less than 0.05) increased G (4.3 +/- 0.6 to 10.6 +/- 1.6 mS/cm2), Jman s----m (18 +/- 5 to 411 +/- 54 nmol.cm-2.h-1), J(alb)s----m (0.3 +/- 0.1 to 6.0 +/- 2.0 micrograms.cm-2.h-1), and J(alb)m----s (0.7 +/- 0.3 to 1.8 +/- 0.4 micrograms.cm-2.h-1). Jman m----s was not affected. On removal of delta P, G and Jman s----m returned to preexposure values, though J(alb)s----m remained slightly elevated at 1.1 +/- 0.3 micrograms.cm-2.h-1. Morphologically, delta Ps----m caused dilation of lateral intercellular spaces, disruption of tight junctions, and submucosal edema. The large increases in s----m fluxes of albumin and mannitol are consistent with bulk flow of fluid toward the lumen via the areas of epithelial damage.
Drifting Gaussian processes with varying neighborhood sizes for online model learning

Computationally efficient online learning of non-stationary models remains a difficult challenge. A robust and reliable algorithm could have great impact on problems in learning control. Recent work on combining the worlds of computationally efficient and locally adaptive learning algorithms with robust learning frameworks such as Gaussian process regression has taken a step towards both robust and real-time capable learning systems. However, online learning of model parameters on streaming data - that is strongly correlated, such as data arriving along a trajectory - can still create serious issues for many learning systems. Here we investigate the idea of drifting Gaussian processes which explicitly exploit the fact that data is generated along trajectories. A drifting Gaussian process keeps a history of a constant number of recently observed data points and updates its hyper-parameters at each time step. Instead of optimizing the neighborhood size on which the GP is trained on, we propose to use several - in parallel - drifting GPs whose predictions are combined for query points. We illustrate our approach on synthetically generated data and successfully evaluate on inverse dynamics learning tasks.
HybridSAL relational abstracter

This paper describes the HybridSAL relational abstracter --- a tool for verifying continuous and hybrid dynamical systems. The input to the tool is a model of a hybrid dynamical system and a safety property. The output of the tool is a discrete state transition system and a safety property. The correctness guarantee provided by the tool is that if the output property holds for the output discrete system, then the input property holds for the input hybrid system. The input is in HybridSal input language and the output is in SAL syntax. The SAL model can be verified using the SAL tool suite. This paper describes the HybridSAL relational abstracter --- the algorithms it implements, its input, its strength and weaknesses, and its use for verification using the SAL infinite bounded model checker and k-induction prover.
Parity nonconservation in cesium

The standard model of the unification of the weak and electromagnetic forces predicts a parity nonconserving (PNC) interaction between the electrons and nucleons in an atom. Because this interaction does not conserve parity, it mixes the S and P wave functions in the atom. The mixing is only ~1 part in 1011 and hence is rather difficult to observe. However, precise measurements of this mixing provide an important test of the standard model. Cesium is a particularly valuable atom to measure, because, being an alkali atom, the calculations of its structure are more tractable than for other many-electron atoms.
AMP-Activated Protein Kinase and l -Arginine

l-Arginine (ARG) is a cationic, conditionally essential amino acid that is involved in numerous physiological processes [Durante et al. (Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 34:906–911, 2007)]. It plays an important role not only in removing ammonia from the body but also in cell division, wound healing, immune function, and hormone release. l-Arginine also serves as the precursor for the synthesis of l-Ornithine, l-Proline, polyamines, agmantine, creatine, and protein [Barbul (JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr 10:227–238, 1986); Wu and Morris (Biochem J 336:1–17, 1998)] (Fig. 3.1). But more significantly, ARG is known to be the exclusive substrate for nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which utilizes ARG to generate the signaling molecule, nitric oxide (NO) [Palmer et al. (Nature 333:664–666, 1988)].
Integrating big social data, computing and modeling for spatial social science

In the past decade, the social sciences are undergoing a dramatic shift toward analyzing ever-increasing amounts of large-scale diverse data with rich spatial, temporal, and thematic resolution (Sh...
Leadframe Mold Lock Study and Optimization for Flag Size Reduction using Finite Element Analysis and Reliability Testing for 3L SOT223 Package

Current design of 3L SOT223 leadframe would allow for a long bonding wires due to its large die attach flag design as compared to the die size. Long bonding wires have resulted in a number of subsequent process and assembly related problem such as wire sway, wire shorting and lifted wire. One way to reduce the wire length is by reducing the die attach pad (flag) size and at the same time redesigning the leads so they are extended into the package center. By doing this, the second bond positions on the lead are closer to the first bond on the die. This reduction in wire length would ultimately result in improved wire strength and integrity especially during epoxy mold compound flow sweeping on these wires. It would also results in cost saving by reducing the amount of wire used per unit of package. The new design has also resulted in reduced usage of copper material for the leadframe. However, it is suspected that the reduction in flag size will change the way stress acting on the die when mechanical and thermal stresses acting onto the package due to reduced contact area between the flag and mold compound. The need to study the effect of reducing the die attach flag on the die stress has prompted this study, which is to investigate if the proposed changes as mentioned above will result in a better stress performance of the die as compared to the current leadframe design. The approach used in this study is by using finite element analysis (FEA) modeling tool and doing reliability data to support the finding of the FEA analysis. The existing leadframe was designed with several locking features added to reduce thermal and mechanical stress on the die especially at trim and form process. These locking features are in the form of two round-shaped through hole and few v-grooves on all leads and the tab. Initial findings suggest that the new leadframe design would result in higher stress level especially due to mechanical loading, compared to the existing leadframe. This initial finding is based on the new leadframe with similar locking features (size and position) as the existing leadframe. Further analysis of the locking features has resulted in optimized locking features in terms of size and dimension, which resulted in leadframe with better stress performance compared to the existing leadframe. Reliability data fully supports this finding with improved delamination and other reliability indexes were achieved. This paper will discuss in great detail the approach used in solving the issue, the various design option considered as well as the optimization work and related engineering theory. It concludes that with optimized locking features, the new leadframe can perform equally better compared to existing leadframe, and more importantly, at the same time the requirement of shorter wire is met.
Public Attitudes Toward Legal Abortion, Euthanasia, Suicide, and Capital Punishment: Partial Evidence of a Consistent Life Ethic

Recent research suggests that public attitudes toward capital punishment are fundamentally value expressive rather than instrumental. This study explores the value-expressive basis of capital punis...
Espaços movediços e conflitantes na Manaus de Milton Hatoum

The ruinous spatial practices that took place in Manaus during the military dictatorship haunt Milton Hatoum’s 2005 Cinzas do Norte. The novel’s physical setting ensnares us in a game of piecing together how the city is meaningful both to the imaginary narrative and beyond the bounds of the novel. We discover, in this process, a Manaus in continuous flux, which defies representation and bears the marks of power struggles and historical violence. Manaus’s belle epoque architecture and the Cidade Flutuante are topoi that are significant to this game of spatial interpretation. The Cidade Flutuante is both a real neighborhood and a metaphor that suggests a vulnerable space, often eclipsed by the imposing heft of Manaus’s neoclassical belle epoque structures.
Abstract WMP70: Accuracy of Emergency Dispatcher Stroke Recognition When Employing a Stroke Screening Tool: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Emergency dispatchers are usually the first contact point for stroke patients accessing the healthcare system. Dispatcher stroke recognition is associated with better paramedic stroke...
Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Analysis

Visual expertise covers a broad range of types of studies and methodologies. Many studies incorporate some measure(s) of observer performance or how well participants perform on a given task. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis is a method commonly used in signal detection tasks (i.e., those in which the observer must decide whether or not a target is present or absent; or must classify a given target as belonging to one category or another), especially those in the medical imaging literature. This frontline paper will review some of the core theoretical underpinnings of ROC analysis, provide an overview of how to conduct an ROC study, and discuss some of the key variants of ROC analysis and their applications.
Monitoring Interactions Between Spontaneous Respiration and Mechanical Inflations

Pediatric and neonatal patients breathe spontaneously during mechanical ventilation. This involves the combination of two distinct controllers: the clinician-controlled mechanical pump (the ventilator) and the patient’s own respiratory muscle pump. The interactions between these two controllers can best be described by examining Newton’s equation of motion. $$ {P}_{\mathrm{T}}={P}_{mus}+{P}_{\mathrm{appl}}=\left(V\times {R}_{rs}\right)+\left(V\times {E}_{rs}\right) $$
Crevice scaling laws to investigate local hydrogen uptake in rescaled model occluded sites

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the effects of occluded site geometry and electrochemical conditions on local hydrogen production and uptake in a precipitation age-hardened Fe-13Cr-8Ni-2Mo-1Al stainless steel. The x2/gap scaling law, where x is the pit/crevice depth and “gap” is the pit/crevice width, was utilized to rescale the sizes of model pits from micrometer to millimeter-scale dimensions. Such rescaling enabled local hydrogen measurements as a function of rescaled pit depth. The rescaled pit specimens were potentiostatically charged under conditions where the pit mouth resided in the passive region and H uptake was possible given sufficient IR drop at a certain pit depth. Specimens were held under these conditions until uniformly charged from interior surfaces according to the H diffusivity in PH 13-8 Mo. Microreference electrode measurements recorded local pit potential as a function of pit depth, x, using a micrometer resolution positioning system. Rescaled pit specimens were exposed, removed, rinsed, stored in LN2, and sectioned radially for H analysis versus depth x. The pit exhibits a 150 mV potential drop from its mouth to its bottom. Most of the potential drop occurs in the first 10 mm of depth, consistent with the modeling results.