cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tight Glucose Control in Critically Ill Patients: Should Glucose Meters Be Used?

Measurement of blood glucose concentrations using portable, hand-held meters is used widely in patients with diabetes. Clinical settings include self-monitoring of blood glucose by patients, in doctors’ offices, in chronic care facilities, and in hospitals. More recently, evidence has emerged suggesting that tight glycemic control of nondiabetic patients in hospital intensive care units (ICUs)1 improves clinical outcomes. Based on this evidence, lowering blood glucose concentrations with insulin has become the standard of care in many ICUs and other hospital settings. In the vast majority of these patients, frequent measurements of blood glucose are performed with portable glucose meters, and the values are used to determine the dose of insulin. In this Q&A article, 5 experts in the field are asked to comment on the use of glucose meters in tight glycemic control. Greet Van den Berghe2 : This depends on the definition of “tight” and what is meant by “hospitalized.” Although there are numerous studies showing a strong association of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia with mortality in hospitalized patients (the nadir of the risk being associated with the “normal for age” fasting blood glucose range), the evidence from randomized controlled studies currently comes from those performed in ICU patients. The 3 studies that we performed in Leuven compared a “normal (fasting) for age” target for blood glucose [80–110 mg/dL (4.4–6.1 mmol/L) for adults, 70–100 mg/dL (3.9–5.6 mmol/L) for children, and 50–80 mg/dL (2.8–4.4 mmol/L) for infants] with a control group in which we assumed hyperglycemia to be a potentially beneficial adaptation. In the control group, we therefore used a “do not touch” approach unless glucose exceeded the renal threshold of 215 mg/dL (11.9 mmol/L). Blood glucose was measured with only 1 device, namely an ABL blood gas analyzer in the surgical and pediatric ICU studies and the HemoCue …
Effects of temperature and salinity acclimation of adults on larval survival, physiology, and early development of Lytechinus variegatus (Echinodermata: Echinoidea)

Larval survival and developmental rates of Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck) were determined as a function of temperature and salinity in two experiments by: (1) directly transferring fertilized eggs to 35, 30, 27.5, 25, 20, 15, and 10‰S seawater at 18 and 23°C, and (2) acclimation of adult sea urchins to the conditions described above for 1 to 4 wk prior to spawning. Developmental rates and percent survival of larvae prior to metamorphosis decreased at salinities below 35‰ (Q10 values for metamorphosis=0.380 to 0.384). Temperature and salinity significantly (P<0.05) affected metabolic rates of L. variegatus plutei. These results show that L. variegatus larvae are stenohaline when compared to larvae of other echinoderm species. LC50 values (‰S), developmental rates, and survival to metamorphosis indicate that acclimation of adult sea urchins to lower salinity prior to spawing and fertilization does not enhance development or survival of embryos exposed to low salinity.
A study of F2 region daytime vertical ionization fluxes at Millstone Hill during 1969

A study has been undertaken of the vertical fluxes of ionization in the F2 region over Millstone Hill (L = 3.2) utilizing incoherent scatter measurements of electron density, electron and ion temperatures, ion composition and vertical velocity, made over 24-hr periods twice per month during 1969. The paper presents the results for all these parameters on five representative days, and discusses the distribution of the vertical flux observed during the daytime at other times during the year. Near noon the downward flux reached a peak near 300 km with an average value of ∼3 × 109 el/cm2/sec in winter and ∼1.6 × 109 el/cm2/sec in summer. The difference is thought to be real and be caused by the higher loss rates prevailing in summer. Above 550 km there is usually a transition to upward flux, which appears to be fully established by 700 km and has an average value of the order of 5 × 107 l/cm2/sec. From ion composition measurements, it appears that this flux is carried almost entirely by O+ ions to at least ∼900 km, as the H+ ion concentration is small (<2% at ∼775 km altitude) in this region by day. While the value of the escape flux appears in fair agreement with theoretical estimates of the limiting flux for this portion of the sunspot cycle, the extremely low H+ concentrations do not appear to be in accord with existing models. The diurnal variation of the upward flux through 650 km exhibits an abrupt onset close to the time of sunrise at the 200 km level (χ = 103°). A reversal to downward flux usually begins before sunset, often in the early afternoon.
Structural Trends in the Southernmost North American Precambrian, Oaxaca, Mexico

Structures observed in a 1000 km2 area of Grenville age Precambrian metasediments near Oaxaca in southern Mexico record the effects of a single orogenic event that produced cylindroidal folds about axes with an average bearing of N. 32° W. and plunge of 26° NW. The orientation of this structural grain appears to provide support for previous proposals (based on geochronology) that a structural belt of Grenville age rocks extends southward from Texas into the Oaxaca area. Further interpretations based on these trends suggest that the Pacific boundary of the Oaxacan Precambrian terrane resulted from continental fragmentation and that adjustments associated with opening of the Gulf of Mexico have not reoriented significantly the Oaxaca area.
The wavelength-dispersive spectrometer and its proposed use in the Analytical Electron Microscope

The Analytical Electron Microscope (AEM) equipped with a wavelength-dispersive spectrometer (WDS) should have the ability to resolve peaks which normally overlap in the spectra from an energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS). With a WDS it should also be possible to measure lower concentrations of elements in thin foils due to the increased peak-to-background ratio compared with EDS. The WDS will measure X-ray from the light elements (4 less than Z less than 1O) more effectively. This paper addresses the possibility of interfacing a compact WDS with a focussing circle of approximately 4 cm to a modem AEM with a high-brightness (field emission) source of electrons.
A case study approach for developing a project performance evaluation system

Abstract Prior project management research has identified a wide variety of measures that describe the outcomes of a project and the input characteristics that impact outcomes. In practice however, project schedules are still used as the sole project performance measure in some firms. Although the use of project schedules is still a good practice for some companies, for other companies the use of project schedules as the sole project performance measure can result in industrial projects falling behind schedule and coming in over-budget. In order to examine how the evaluation of project performance can be improved, a two-step approach is documented that was used to design a new project performance evaluation system at Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies (FM&T) that would enable managers to audit a project and determine where improvements could be made. Lessons learned from the development of a project performance evaluation system at Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies are then discussed.
Exploring the relationship of second-trimester corticotropin releasing hormone, chronic stress and preterm delivery.

Objective. We examined the impact of chronic stress on the relationship between second-trimester serum corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) concentrations and preterm delivery (PTD) in working women.Methods. Birth records from mothers of 364 PTD and 730 controls in Southern California were linked to stored mid-pregnancy maternal serum analysed for CRH. Association of CRH with stressors reported in post-partum interviews was examined in cases and controls separately. Stratified multivariable logistic regression analyses examined moderating influence of seven chronic stressors on CRH in predicting PTD.Results. Mean log CRH was lower among women with chronic stressors. Chronic stressors were not related to an increased risk of PTD, but did strengthen the association of CRH with PTD. Adjusted for confounders, the odds of PTD were 1.5-times higher per unit increase in log CRH in the overall study population, but were two-to-three times higher in subjects who reported unfulfilling jobs, little sleep or strong ...
A policy making framework for resilient port infrastructure systems

Abstract This research is an effort to develop a Risk Management-based Decision Analysis (RMDA) framework based on the common fundamental elements that define the nature of resilience in Port Infrastructure Systems (PIS). While developing a systematic process for making strategic and investment decisions, RMDA guides the decision-makers to identify, analyze, and prioritize risks involved in PIS operations; to define ways for risk mitigation, plan for contingencies, and devise mechanisms for continuously monitoring and controlling risk factors and threats to the system; and to value the adopted resilience investment plans and strategies. Our suggested RMDA framework is a policy making tool that utilizes a Decision Tree Analysis (DTA) methodology for assessing the cost-effectiveness of the devised strategies.
Factors Predictive of Perioperative Myocardial Infarction during Coronary Operations

The diagnosis of perioperative myocardial infarction (PMI) in our patients was based upon electrocardiography, vectorcardiography, and postoperative enzyme changes. A group of 303 patients operated on between January and September, 1972, formed the basis of this study. Three groups were identified from among these patients. Group A was composed of 90 consecutive patients in whom MI was excluded by all criteria. Group B comprised 25 patients with proved MI and yielded the 8% incidence of MI among our patients. Group C included 34 patients with triple-vessel disease who did not sustain MI. Significantly more patients sustaining MI had preinfarction angina and severe coronary artery disease. The incidence of MI was also higher in patients with diffuse disease and those in whom the lesions could not be totally bypassed. A statistical correlation with longer pump runs and periods of anoxia was obtained. There was some suggestion that the preoperative location of the hypokinetic segment determined the site of MI in patients.
Identifying preschool children of alcoholic parents

“My mother was an alcoholic. She abused me from the time 1 was 4‐years‐old, and my problems showed up in nursery school. I wanted to make the babies cry for some unknown reason. I would go into the infant room and pull the babies’ hair. I didn't know why I wanted to hear them cry. I remember my mother used to pull my hair when she'd get drunk. She'd yank it for no reason. Now that I'm grown, I know I was angry with her for doing that to me. It was the only way I knew how to cry out for help. I was trying to show in an outside way the pain I was having on the inside. But nobody listened. I can still see the preschool teacher right in my face, nose‐to‐nose, and all the little kids surrounding her, and she was yelling at me. I was getting real upset because I had to go to the bathroom but the teacher wouldn't let me. She spanked me with a paddle as hard as she could, and the whole time I was using the bathroom while she was doing that. I'll never forget that as long as I live. And I'll never forget that pres...
Improving the quality of health care in the United States of America: the need for a multi-level approach.

Serious efforts to address quality require coordinated, multi-faceted, multi-level strategies that address the organisational environments and cultures that affect how care is provided. Most efforts over the past 50 years to improve the care provided by physicians and other clinicians have been individually rather than system based. Such individual interventions to modify physician behaviour typically have only modest effects whether considering the recognition and treatment of depression in primary care, following established practice guidelines, carrying out preventive interventions, monitoring and managing chronic illness appropriately, or managing pain and end-of-life care. It is increasingly recognised that quality of care is a property of health systems. Internal efforts to shape clinical routines, such as performance incentives and disease-management approaches, and external inducements and constraints that shape how clinical contexts are organised and function are equally relevant. Internal factor...
Spatially Resolved Stellar Populations of Eight Goods-South Active Galactic Nuclei at z ~ 1

We present a pilot study of the stellar populations of eight active galactic nucleus (AGN) hosts at z ~ 1 and compare with (1) lower redshift samples and (2) a sample of nonactive galaxies of similar redshift. We utilize K' images in the Great Observatories Origins Deep Survey South field obtained with the laser guide star adaptive optics system at Keck Observatory. We combine these K' data with B, V, i, and z imaging from the Advanced Camera for Surveys on Hubble Space Telescope to give multicolor photometry at a matched spatial resolution better than 100 mas in all bands. The hosts harbor AGNs as inferred from their high X-ray luminosities (LX > 10^42 erg s^–1) or mid-IR colors. We find a correlation between the presence of younger stellar populations and the strength of the AGN, as measured with [O III] line luminosity or X-ray (2-10 keV) luminosity. This finding is consistent with similar studies at lower redshift. Of the three Type II galaxies, two are disk galaxies and one is of irregular type, while in the Type I sample there are only one disk-like source and four sources with smooth, elliptical/spheroidal morphologies. In addition, the mid-IR spectral energy distributions of the strong Type II AGNs indicate that they are excited to Luminous InfraRed Galaxy (LIRG) status via galactic starbursting, while the strong Type I AGNs are excited to LIRG status via hot dust surrounding the central AGN. This supports the notion that the obscured nature of Type II AGNs at z ~ 1 is connected with global starbursting and that they may be extincted by kpc-scale dusty features that are by-products of this starbursting.
Rolling-ball analogue of coupled circuits

AN ELECTRIC SYSTEM consisting of two inductance-capacitance loops with negligible resistance, and inductively coupled together, has a dynamic analogue in the form of a freely rolling ball on an elevated surface, an example of which is sketched in Figure 1. The time integrals of the loop currents (q 1 and q 2 ) are used as displacements along co-ordinates x 1 and x 2 , with the loop currents themselves analogous to the velocity of the ball along those coordinates. The magnetic field energy becomes analogous to the kinetic energy of the ball if the scales of the co-ordinates are made proportional to the square roots of the corresponding self-inductances, and x 1 is inclined with respect to x 2 at angle β, the angle whose cosine is the coefficient of coupling.
Optimizing Treatment Outcomes in HIV-Infected Patients with Substance Abuse Issues

Drug abuse is associated with poorer virologic and clinical outcomes for patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Limited evidence, primarily from in vitro and animal studies, shows that some abused drugs (e.g., opioids) may have direct effects on HIV pathology and the immune response to infection, but the clinical effects are not known. Clinical data indicate that the primary effect of drug abuse on HIV disease progression is mediated via factors that may limit access and/or adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Drug abuse is associated with reduced adherence to HAART, which is strongly correlated with poorer virologic and clinical outcomes. However, the virologic and clinical effects of HAART are generally equivalent among drug abusers and non-drug abusers who adhere to therapy. These results underscore the importance of integrating medical and substance abuse interventions for HIV-positive drug abusers, to improve adherence to HAART and optimize outcomes of treatment for HIV infection.
Reconsidering the overjustification effect: A guide to critical resources

The overjustification effect is a popular phenomenon that is often reviewed in psychology courses. This effect refers to the observation that positive reinforcement reduces one's intrinsic motivati...
An improved relation for the effective elastic compliance of a film/substrate system during indentation by a flat cylindrical punch

Measurement of the mechanical properties of thin films on substrates by load and depth sensing indentation methods such as nanoindentation often requires accurate descriptions for the effective elastic compliance of the film/substrate system. Here, a simple modification of the commonly used solution derived by Gao et al. [H. Gao, C.H. Chiu, J. Lee, Int. J. Solids Struct. (1992) 2471] is presented, that significantly improves its accuracy and range of applicability, as demonstrated by comparison with finite element simulations.
Bronchiolar Complications of Connective Tissue Diseases

Inflammatory and fibrotic processes can involve the small airways (i.e., respiratory and terminal bronchioles) in several connective tissue disorders (CTDs). Obliterative (constrictive) bronchiolitis (OB) as well cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), previously termed bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia (BOOP), are well-recognized, albeit rare, complications of rheumatoid arthritis and other CTDs. Bronchiectasis has also been described in patients with CTDs. Among the various pathologic conditions, clinical, radiographic, and histologic features and prognosis differ markedly. Clinical features are often nonspecific, and sometimes patients may be asymptomatic. Diagnosing these disorders may be difficult. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is useful in detecting bronchiolar pathology, even when symptoms are minimal or absent. Surgical (open or thoracoscopic) lung biopsies can substantiate the diagnosis, but in some cases, the diagnosis can be affirmed less aggressively by appropriate imaging studies (e.g., HRCT) and transbronchial lung biopsies. Corticosteroids are highly efficacious for COP, but therapeutic options for OB are disappointing. Prophylactic antibiotics and good pulmonary hygiene remain the mainstay of therapy for patients with bronchiectasis.
Examination of penetration routes and distribution of ionic permeants during and after transscleral iontophoresis with magnetic resonance imaging

Previously, transscleral and transcorneal iontophoretic delivery was studied and compared to passive delivery and intravitreal injection using nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The objective of the present study was to employ MRI to further investigate the factors affecting transscleral iontophoretic delivery. In the present study, anodal and cathodal constant current transscleral iontophoresis were conducted with excised sclera in side-by-side diffusion cells in vitro and with rabbits in vivo. The total current and duration of application were 2 and 4 mA (current density 10 and 20 mA/cm2) and 20–60 min, respectively. The delivery and distribution of the model permeants manganese ion (Mn2+) and manganese ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid complex (MnEDTA2−) into the eye during iontophoresis were determined with MRI and compared with the results obtained in previous studies of subconjunctival injection and passive delivery. Both anodal and cathodal iontophoresis provided significant enhancement in ocular delivery compared to passive transport in the in vitro and in vivo experiments. Transscleral iontophoretic delivery was related to the position and duration of the iontophoresis application in vivo. Permeants were observed to be delivered primarily into the anterior segment of the eye when the pars plana was the application site. Extending the duration of iontophoresis at this site allowed the permeants to be delivered into the vitreous more deeply and to a greater extent than when the application site was at the back of the eye near the fornix. The present results show that electrode placement was an important factor in transscleral iontophoresis, and the ciliary body (pars plana) was determined to be the pathway of least resistance for iontophoretic transport. These new findings continue to support the utility of MRI as a noninvasive technique in ocular drug delivery research and testing.
The economic and predictive value of trading volume growth: a tale of three moments

This work studies long-horizon return predictability of volume growth realizations. High-mean volume growth is argued to reduce estimation risk and high volatility and skewness are interpreted as factors which increase estimation risk. It is found that stocks with high-mean trading volume growth during the past 12 months experience strong positive excess returns that do not reverse themselves over the next 5-years. Stocks with high volatility and skewness of excess turnover growth have negative future risk-adjusted returns which are economically significant. The conclusion is that increases in trading volume growth are predictive of future returns.
Near-Wall Stereo PIV Investigation of the Turbulent Channel Flow Over Rough-Walls

The near-wall turbulent flow in the rough-wall channel is of great significance in engineering applications, but remains a challenge for both experimental measurement and numerical modeling due to the complexity of the roughness geometry. For optical measurement techniques, e.g. PIV, obstruction by the roughness elements and reflection from the surface adversely affect the quality of near wall data. Our present study utilizes a facility containing a fluid with the same refractive index as the rough acrylic wall, making the interface almost invisible, and employs Stereo PIV to obtain the three-dimensional flow field in the vicinity of the roughness elements. The roughness shape is a uniformly distributed and closely packed, 0.5 mm high pyramid, corresponding to 95 wall units, with a pitch angle of 22.5 degrees. The length of the rough surface is sufficiently long to obtain self-similar roughness boundary layer, turbulent channel flow at a mean velocity of 3.8 m/s, with a clearly defined log layer. Results will include sample data of the complete flow, both around and above the roughness elements. Issues related to implementation of Stereo PIV in an index-matched facility will be discussed.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
DIRECTIONS IN HISTORICISM: LANGUAGE, EXPERIENCE, AND PRAGMATIC ADJUDICATION

. This article examines the current affirmation within theology of historicism, with its assumption that the historical realm, broadly construed, is the only arena of human activity and knowledge and its repudiation of traditional forms of foundationalism and correspondence theories of truth. The essay performs this task by analyzing the work of Gordon Kaufman and William Dean, setting forth their commonly shared historicism, pragmatism, and constructivist approaches to theology, as well as their differences concerning nonlinguistic dimensions of experience. The essay also focuses on the move by both thinkers to include nature in their understanding of history and to offer biocultural interpretations of human existence.
Factorable synthesis of Mealy-Moore sequential machines

The Mealy–Moore sequential machines' factoring is extended to triad and quatrad iteration cycles. A chain of distinguishable machines with a contractive mapping property is considered, and simplification of the machine structure results when the output network can be decomposed. Identifying the chain of machines as an exact sequence over the input-state product space, one is led to the conclusion that the exact sequence affords easy description of physical processes, but not to a logical synthesis.
Assigning value to medical algorithms: implications for personalized medicine

Genomic algorithms are typically multiple variable, mathematical equations that assign a score or probability to an event of clinical interest. Debate about the valuation of multianalyte algorithm assays highlights the gaps in best practices for valuing technologies. Decisions about valuation are partly about resolving scientific uncertainty, but also involve issues of social norms and political processes. More transparent discussion and understanding of beliefs about the valuation of algorithms would help reduce uncertainty and drive optimal investment in development and adoption of algorithms that improve social welfare; that is, affordably improving population health. Techniques have been evolving for greater public participation and engagement in such deliberations, which are to be encouraged in determining the valuation of genomic algorithms.
A new role for an ancient variable in Appalachia: Paradigm leveling and standardization in West Virginia

In many rural English-speaking communities, linguistic processes such as paradigm leveling come into direct conflict with social processes of standardization. In the US region of Appalachia, an analysis of past be leveling illustrates the progression of the sociolinguistic clashes between these forces. A quantitative sociolinguistic examination of leveled was (e.g., We was there) for 67 native Appalachian speakers was conducted to assess the status of past be in light of economic and educational improvements over the 20th century. The results indicate that leveled was declined sharply, with the youngest speakers demonstrating more standardized patterns. Although the overall rate of was leveling declined across apparent time, the rate of was contraction (e.g., We's there last night) increased, offering native Appalachians a reduced variant to contest the social push toward a fully standardized system.
The effect of higher order model decoupling capacitors in the design of a power delivery network

Decoupling capacitors are widely used in power delivery network (PDN) design to mitigate switching noise from the integrated circuit (IC). Besides, they also provide a low-impedance path to shunt the transient energy to ground at the IC source. Since a real capacitor includes both parasitic inductance and resistance associated with the interconnection and package of the capacitor resulting in an increase in impedance, adequate decoupling capacitances in a PDN design are essential. Often, a capacitor is represented with a higher order model (HOM) of resistance, inductance and capacitance in power delivery simulation. This paper presents the findings from an investigation into the PDN performance using various HOM decoupling capacitors of the same capacitance. The reasons for the different HOM values with the same capacitance include the form factor, manufacturing processes and the operating temperature of the capacitors. From the study, it was found that both the form factor and the differences in the capacitors manufacturing process can cause a significant difference in the impedance profile as well as the voltage droop whereas the operating temperature has a much less impact on the PDN performance.
Method of measuring charge distribution of nanosized aerosols

In this paper, we present the development of a method to accurately measure the positive and negative charge distribution of nanosized aerosols using a tandem differential mobility analyzer (TDMA) system. From the series of TDMA measurements, the charge fraction of nanosized aerosol particles was obtained as a function of equivalent mobility particle diameter ranging from 50 to 200 nm. The capability of this new approach was implemented by sampling from a laminar diffusion flame which provides a source of highly charged particles due to naturally occurring flame ionization process. The results from the TDMA measurement provide the charge distribution of nanosized aerosols which we found to be in reasonable agreement with Boltzmann equilibrium charge distribution theory and a theory based upon charge population balance equation (PBE) combined with Fuchs theory (N.A. Fuchs, Geofis. Pura Appl. 56 (1963) 185). The theoretically estimated charge distribution of aerosol particles based on the PBE provides insight into the charging processes of nanosized aerosols surrounded by bipolar ions and electrons, and agree well with the TDMA results.
Treatment with oleic acid reduces IgE binding to peanut and cashew allergens

Abstract Oleic acid (OA) is known to bind and change the bioactivities of proteins, such as α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin in vitro. The objective of this study was to determine if OA binds to allergens from a peanut extract or cashew allergen and changes their allergenic properties. Peanut extract or cashew allergen (Ana o 2) was treated with or without 5 mM sodium oleate at 70 °C for 60 min (T1) or under the same conditions with an additional overnight incubation at 37 °C (T2). After treatment, the samples were dialyzed and analyzed by SDS–PAGE and for OA content. IgE binding was evaluated by ELISA and western blot, using a pooled serum or plasma from individuals with peanut or cashew allergies. Results showed that OA at a concentration of 5 mM reduced IgE binding to the allergens. Peanut sample T2 exhibited a lower IgE binding and a higher OA content (protein-bound) than T1. Cashew allergen T2 also showed a reduction in IgE binding. We conclude that OA reduces the allergenic properties of peanut extract and cashew allergen by binding to the allergens. Our findings indicate that OA in the form of sodium oleate may be potentially useful as a coating to reduce the allergenic properties of peanut and cashew allergens.
The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Center: A Model of Multidisciplinary Management

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating, progressive motor neuron disorder that poses a myriad of clinical problems. Patients who have ALS are best cared for in a multidisciplinary fashion, with involvement of clinicians from various specialties, including neurology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, pulmonary medicine, clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners, physical and occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, dietitians, psychologists, social workers, and case managers. This article provides a summary of the current research into the rehabilitation of ALS, including the role of exercise, spasticity management, mood disorders, pain, and palliative care.
Perioperative complications in patients with anthracycline chemotherapeutic agents.

The anaesthetic records of 68 patients ranging in age from 0.5 to 22 years were reviewed to determine the incidence of perioperative cardiovascular complications in patients with a history of anthracrycline drug therapy. One hundred and eleven anaesthetics were retrospectively reviewed and seven cardiovascular complications (hypotension) were identified for an incidence of 6.3 per cent. Of these, only two could be definitely attributed to perioperative myocardial dysfunction. Both of these patients had a history of congestive heart failure. Three of four patients with a history of congestive heart failure developed complications. In evaluating possible preoperative predictions of perioperative cardiovascular complications, only a history of congestive heart failure bore a statistical significant relationship. There was no relationship between anaesthetic technique and perioperative cardiovascular complications. Two additional cardiovascular complications occurred more than 48 hours postoperatively and their significance is discussed.
Usefulness of fasting and postprandial duplex ultrasound examinations for predicting high-grade superior mesenteric artery stenosis.

Purpose A fasting duplex ultrasound examination of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) accurately detects high-grade (>70%) stenosis. It has been postulated that postprandial niesenteric duplex scanning may further stratify stenosis and improve the ability of a fasting examination to detect a high-grade stenosis. We performed fasting and postprandial duplex scanning of 25 healthy controls and 80 patients with vascular disease undergoing aortography to determine whether postprandial mesenteric duplex scanning provides information beyond a fasting study alone. Methods Patients with vascular disease were divided into three groups based on lateral aortography results: group 1, 0% to Results Mean fasting SMA PSV did not differ among controls and groups 1 and 2. Postprandial PSV increased significantly in all groups, but was not different among controls and groups 1 and 2. Mean fasting PSV was significantly higher, and the postprandial increase in PSV significantly lower, in group 3 compared with controls and with groups 1 and 2. Fasting niesenteric duplex scanning predicted 70% to 99% SMA stenosis, with 89% sensitivity, 97% specificity, 80% positive predictive value, 99% negative predictive value, and 96% accuracy. Corresponding values for postprandial scanning were 67%, 94%, 60%, 96%, 91%, and for the combination of normal fasting and postprandial scanning 67%, 100%, 100%, 96%, 96%, respectively. Conclusion Postprandial increases in SMA PSVs are blunted in patients with high-grade stenosis, but feeding velocities do not stratify between lesser degrees of stenosis. Both fasting and postprandial PSVs identify high-grade (>70%) stenosis. Their combination marginally improves fasting duplex scan specificity and positive predictive value. Postprandial scanning is not necessary for the diagnosis of high-grade stenosis if a fasting study identifies a PSV ≥275 cm/s. The combination of normal fasting and postprandial niesenteric duplex ultrasound scanning may effectively rule out high-grade SMA stenosis.
Location decision-making characteristics of foreign direct investment in the United States

Abstract After a rapid surge in the eighties and despite a decline in growth in the nineties, foreign direct investment in the United States remains significant. Billions have been spent by firms in selecting an investment site location, while billions more have been spent by communities in efforts to attract foreign investment. A survey of domestic and foreign manufacturing companies in the United States indicates that managerial differences across nationalities are evident in plant location decision-making which involves location information sources, preferred incentives, satisfaction levels, and location problems. Implications for manufacturing firm management, as well as economic development officials and policymakers can be derived from comparing foreign investors with their domestic counterparts.
On the isometry group of a compact flat orbifold

Let \(\Gamma \) be an \(n\)-dimensional crystallographic group. We prove that the group \(\mathrm{Isom}(E^n/\Gamma )\) of isometries of the flat orbifold \(E^n/\Gamma \) is a compact Lie group whose component of the identity is a torus of dimension equal to the first Betti number of the group \(\Gamma \). This implies that \(\mathrm{Isom}(E^n/\Gamma )\) is finite if and only if \(\Gamma /[\Gamma , \Gamma ]\) is finite. We also generalize known results on the Nielsen realization problem for torsion-free \(\Gamma \) to arbitrary \(\Gamma \).
Changes in occupational segregation by race and ethnicity in the USA

This paper analyses changes in segregation by race and ethnicity in the USA across 13 broad occupational groups over the period 1983–2002. It is found that overall segregation between Blacks and Non-Blacks modestly declined while overall segregation between Hispanics and Non-Hispancis significantly increased during this period. It is also found that Blacks and Hispanics remained underrepresented in higher-paying occupations and overrepresented in lower-paying occupations. However, Blacks tended to be less underrepresented in the former occupations and less overrepresented in the latter occupations than Hispanics.
Use of generalized population ratios to obtain Fe XV line intensities and linewidths at high electron densities

A generalized method for obtaining individual level population ratios is used to obtain relative intensities of extreme ultraviolet Fe XV emission lines in the range 284-500 A, which are density dependent for electron densities in the tokamak regime or higher. Four lines in particular are found to attain quite high intensities in the high-density limit. The same calculation provides inelastic contributions to linewidths. The method connects level populations and level widths through total probabilities t(ij), related to 'taboo' probabilities of Markov chain theory. The t(ij) are here evaluated for a real atomic system, being therefore of potential interest to random-walk theorists who have been limited to idealized systems characterized by simplified transition schemes.
Clinical Experience with Daptomycin for the Treatment of Patients with Documented Gram-Positive Septic Arthritis

Background:Septic arthritis is considered a rheumatologic emergency that can lead lo joint destruction and tong-term impairment of joint function, Daptomycin is bactericidal in vitro against Staphylococcus aureus, the primary pathogen associated with septic arthritis.Objective:To describe the use of daptomycin in patients with septic arthritis,Methods:Data were collected as part of the Cubicin Outcomes Registry and Experience (CORE) program, a retrospective, observational, multicenter study, to describe the clinical use of daptomycin. Efficacy at the end of daptomycin therapy was determined by each center's investigator(s) as cure, improved, failure, or nonevaluable. Patients who had a diagnosis of septic arthritis, excluding concomitant osteomyelitis, as well as a positive culture by needle aspirate or deep tissue biopsy, were selected from the combined 2005 and 2006 CORE database.Results:Twenty-two patients were included in this analysis. S. aureus was the most common pathogen isolated, with the majorit...
COSTLY BUYER SEARCH IN LABORATORY MARKETS WITH SELLER ADVERTISING

In this experiment, sellers simultaneously choose prices and advertising strategies. Buyers either purchase at an advertised price or search sequentially for other prices. In the unique symmetric equilibrium, sellers charge a high unadvertised price or advertise a price chosen from a lower interval. Increases in search or advertising costs raise equilibrium prices and affect equilibrium advertising intensity. Empirical results are consistent with most comparative static predictions. Sellers, however, price much lower and advertise more intensely than predicted. Consequently, market outcomes more closely resemble a perfect information, Bertrand-like equilibrium than the imperfect information, mixed strategy equilibrium with significant seller market power.
Maximum Average Violence: Underground Assaults on the South African Gold Mines, 1913–1965

In this article I argue that historically high levels of underground violence in South African gold mines can be only partially explained by general cultural factors such as masculinity or race; social factors such as corporal punishment in schools; political factors such as state support for whites; or spatial factors such as the dangers of working underground. All are relevant and important as background conditions, but for a complete explanation, attention must also be paid to production relations in the workplaces themselves. The article begins with a close analysis of the only complete set of extant archival transcripts on underground assaults, the evidence to the 1913 Native Affairs Department Commission of Inquiry into the Grievances of Workers at Crown Mines. I argue that much of the workplace violence at Crown Mines in 1913 was specific to a particular historical set of work conditions on that mine at that particular time, rather than providing typical evidence of the incidence of assault undergr...
Personal Software Process: a user's perspective

The paper discusses briefly what the Personal Software Process (PSP) entails from the point of view of a student that went through the requirements of the PSP course. The author completed this course as part of the requirements of the Master of Software Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The paper gives some background about the university and the role of the PSP in the mentioned masters program. It describes what the PSP course entails from a user's point of view. The results achieved by the author in terms of estimation, productivity, and quality are discussed. The paper also states the set of goals determined by the author at the end of the course. Finally, it concludes with the focal points that the author considers can be learned by going through the PSP course.
Substrate‐induced Thermal Stabilization of Lactase (Escherichia coli) in Milk

La β galactosidase d'E. coli est etudiee: sa thermostabilite est mesuree lorsque l'enzyme se trouve dans un simple tampon ou lorsqu'elle se trouve dans le lait. Un effet protecteur des composants du lait est mis en evidence et la recherche du ou des responsables (caseinate et proteines) est effectuee
Global metabolic profiling and its role in systems biology to advance personalized medicine in the 21st Century

Systems biology attempts to elucidate the complex interaction between genes, proteins and metabolites to provide a mechanistic understanding of cellular function and how this function is affected by disease processes, drug toxicity or drug efficacy effects. Global metabolic profiling is an important component of systems biology that can be applied in both preclinical and clinical settings for drug discovery and development, and to study disease mechanisms. The metabolic profile encodes the phenotype, which is composed of the genotype and environmental factors. The phenotypic profile can be used to make decisions about the best course of treatment for an individual patient. Understanding the combined effects of genetics and environment through a systems biology framework will enable the advancement of personalized medicine.
Aldol condensation of n‐butyraldehyde in a biphasic stirred tank reactor: Experiments and models

To model a biphasic stirred tank reactor, intrinsic reaction kinetics and interfacial area are required. In this study, reactor modeling for n-butyraldehyde aldol condensation was investigated under industrially relevent conditions. The interfacial area in the reactor was directly measured using a borescope system under appropriate temperature, NaOH concentration and rpm conditions. To estimate the interfacial area, a semiempirical correlation was developed, which provides good estimates within ±15% error. The reactor model based on two-film theory was developed, combining the interfacial area and intrinsic reaction kinetics reported in our prior work. The model was verified by reaction experiments in the range 0.05–1.9 M NaOH, 80–130°C, and 600–1000 rpm. The prediction errors using the interfacial area from direct measurements and the correlation were ±8% and ±15%, respectively, suggesting that the model accuracy may be improved with better interfacial area estimation. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 2228–2239, 2015
Entrepreneurial Traits and the Distribution of Poultry Farm Entrepreneurs in Delta State, Nigeria

The authors attempted to ascertain the entrepreneurial potential of poultry farmers in Delta State using farmers’ scores in six entrepreneurial traits measured on a five-point Likert scale. The study covered the population of 275 poultry farmers in the State. The objectives were to ascertain the level of entrepreneurial traits of Poultry farmers and to determine the distribution of poultry farm entrepreneurs by category, namely; low, average and high potential, across the three agricultural zones. The hypotheses tested were that entrepreneurial traits of poultry farmers were not above average and that there was no significant variation in poultry farmers’ entrepreneurial potentials across the three agricultural zones. Primary data were collected using copies of a structured questionnaire. By using analysis of variance and test of differences between a test value of 3.4, major findings were that poultry farmers were above average in three entrepreneurial traits but with significant variation across the zones; that entrepreneurial potential was generally below average, finally, that the three categories of poultry farm entrepreneurs were randomly distributed across the zones. The authors concluded that while there may not be any inherent biases in drawing sample of poultry farmers across the State for development projects purposes, there may be differences in cost implications for farmers’ entrepreneurial development.
Homonymous hemianopia and disc pallor after severe head injury.

Abstract A woman with a history of severe right-sided head trauma at age four is seen at age 20 with temporal lobe seizures, decreased vision in her right eye without an afferent pupillary defect and with a total left homonymous hemianopia. In addition, she has bilateral optic atrophy, worse on the left side. Arguments are presented with respect to the cause of the decreased visual acuity and the asymmetric optic atrophy.
Automated CAE tools for full custom design of bipolar analog ASICs

CAE tools for use in design of bipolar analog ICS with the analog FASTRACK design system are discussed. Two tools, device design and autogen, automatically design and lay out a full-custom transistor. The statistical analysis and modeling (SAM) tool is used to generate model parameter values for a variety of deterministic and statistical simulation modes. A tool for automated synthesis of IC macromodels (ASIM) is provided to create macro/behavioral models of analog and digital blocks for up to 100 times faster circuit-level simulation. >
Are There Circumstances in Which Phase 2 Study Results Should Be Practice-Changing?

New pharmaceuticals, innovative combinations of approved agents, and novel treatment modalities have resulted in a marked increase in the need for clinical trials. Evidence for treatment efficacy is best derived from large phase 3 randomized, controlled clinical trials. However, phase 3 investigations are lengthy and expensive, and consume patient resources. Furthermore, some diseases and treatment indications are rare, and adequate numbers of patients for a definitive phase 3 trial do not exist. Consequently, it is imperative for clinicians to understand phase 2 trial design, since their interpretation is required to apply the findings in clinical practice appropriately. The complexity of phase 2 studies is explored, including unique designs, possible use of randomization, and other key elements necessary for interpretation of phase 2 trials. Specific examples and application of these concepts are discussed in this review.
Organizational Behavior Management in the Private Sector: A Review of Empirical Research and Recommendations for Further Investigation

A survey of empirical research on organizational behavior management (OBM) organized around the employee behaviors influenced is presented. It is concluded that; OBM methods generally affect organizational behavior positively; OBM researchers must clarify the field's perception of the worker and individual differences; although emphasis should continue in individual (micro) behavior analysis, OBM should become more macro or systems oriented; and OBM researchers must determine if internal states such as cognitions fall within its domain.