cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Updated streamflow reconstructions for the Upper Colorado River Basin

[1] Updated proxy reconstructions of water year (October–September) streamflow for four key gauges in the Upper Colorado River Basin were generated using an expanded tree ring network and longer calibration records than in previous efforts. Reconstructed gauges include the Green River at Green River, Utah; Colorado near Cisco, Utah; San Juan near Bluff, Utah; and Colorado at Lees Ferry, Arizona. The reconstructions explain 72–81% of the variance in the gauge records, and results are robust across several reconstruction approaches. Time series plots as well as results of cross-spectral analysis indicate strong spatial coherence in runoff variations across the subbasins. The Lees Ferry reconstruction suggests a higher long-term mean than previous reconstructions but strongly supports earlier findings that Colorado River allocations were based on one of the wettest periods in the past 5 centuries and that droughts more severe than any 20th to 21st century event occurred in the past.
Degradation of Fiber-Reinforced Composite Materials at Cryogenic Temperatures, Part II—Multiaxial Fatigue

In an associated paper,1 cryogenic fatigue fracture of glass-fiber-reinforced composites subjected to in-phase, biaxial cyclic stresses has been studied. Both the fatigue fracture life and associated failure mechanisms in the composites have been examined. It has been discussed2 that in many cryogenic engineering applications of fiber-reinforced composites, the consideration of fatigue fracture alone is not adequate for a reliable design and that other parameters measuring progressive fatigue damage in the material may be needed also. Since many cryogenic composite devices and structures, which are usually under a complex pulsating state of electromagnetic and mechanical stresses, are designed on the basis of stiffness and/or stability considerations, naturally, degradation of stiffness or modulus of the composite material subjected to a complex state of cyclic stress is of critical importance. Furthermore, stringent requirements of maintaining a proper cryogenic temperature level to achieve optimum performance (for example, superconductivity) led to the consideration of hysteresis energy dissipation or internal damping in the material during cyclic loading.
EEG Characterization of a Cohort of Patients with Disorders of Consciousness: Linking Novel Research Results and Clinical Practice. (P1.277)

OBJECTIVE: (1) To characterize a cohort of patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) using conventional visual analysis of awake and sleep EEG. (2) To correlate EEG features with bedside behavioral and fMRI assessments of cognitive capacities. BACKGROUND: Behavioral scales used to establish diagnosis in patients with DOC are limited as they require observation of motor responses. In some instances, bedside diagnoses are challenged by fMRI or quantitative EEG demonstrations of higher cognitive capacities in patients with limited motor functions. However, translation of research results into clinical practice is constrained by complexity of study paradigms and analysis; costs and feasibility of data collection in larger number of patients and - as a consequence - unknown specificity and sensitivity of these methods. DESIGN/METHODS: Cohort study. 58 research admissions of 41 patients with DOC. Structured review of continuous video-EEG recordings (total of 2701 hours) to assess background, organization, focal slowing, epileptiform activity and elements of sleep architecture. Other reviewed clinical data: structural brain imaging (CT or MRI), FDG-PET, and standardized behavioral assessment (Coma Recovery Scale - Revised, CRS-R). 23 subjects during 32 admissions were also tested for fMRI evidence of command following using motor imagery paradigms. RESULTS: Awake and sleep EEG features only weakly correlated with bedside behavioral assessments. In contrast, all 4 subjects with evidence of covert cognition via fMRI had only mild EEG background abnormalities and had sleep spindles. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that relatively well-preserved wakeful EEG background and presence of sleep spindles are physiologic markers which correlate with higher cognitive capabilities. Visual EEG analysis has well-established criteria, is readily available and not constrained by the patient’s impaired motor output. Large-scale studies aimed to evaluate efficacy of widely available diagnostic tools in the assessment of likelihood of preserved cognition are warranted. Study Supported by: NIH RO1 HD051912, The James S McDonnell Foundation, The Charles A. Dana Foundation, The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Disclosure: Dr. Forgacs has nothing to disclose. Dr. Conte has nothing to disclose. Dr. Victor has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schiff has nothing to disclose.
Neural net generation of facial displays in talking heads

In this paper is proposed a hybrid face detector that combines the high processing speed of an Asymmetrical Adaboost Cascade Detector with the high detection rate of a Wavelet Bayesian Detector. This integration is achieved by incorporating this last detector in the middle stages of the cascade detector. Results of the application of the proposed detector to a standard face detection database are also presented.
A Structurally Unresolved Head Segment of Defined Length Favors Proper Measles Virus Hemagglutinin Tetramerization and Efficient Membrane Fusion Triggering

Paramyxoviruses include several insidious and ubiquitous pathogens of humans and animals, with measles virus (MeV) being a prominent one. The MeV membrane fusion apparatus consists of a receptor binding protein (hemagglutinin [H]) tetramer and a fusion (F) protein trimer. Four globular MeV H heads are connected to a tetrameric stalk through flexible linkers. We sought here to characterize the function of a 17-residue H-head segment proximal to the stalk that was unresolved in all five MeV H-head crystal or cocrystal structures. In particular, we assessed whether its primary sequence and length are critical for proper protein oligomerization and intracellular transport or for membrane fusion triggering. Extensive alanine substitutions had no effect on fusion triggering, suggesting that sequence identity is not critical for this function. Excessive shortening of this segment reduced or completely abrogated fusion trigger function, while length compensation restored it. We then characterized the mechanism of function loss. Mutated H proteins were efficiently transported to the cell surface, but certain alterations enhancing linker flexibility resulted in accumulation of high-molecular-weight H oligomers. Some oligomers had reduced fusion trigger capacity, while others retained this function. Thus, length and rigidity of the unresolved head segment favor proper H tetramerization and counteract interactions between subunits from different tetramers. The structurally unresolved H-head segment, together with the top of the stalk, may act as a leash to provide the right degree of freedom for the heads of individual tetramers to adopt a triggering-permissive conformation while avoiding improper contacts with heads of neighboring tetramers. IMPORTANCE Understanding the molecular mechanism of membrane fusion triggering may allow development of new antiviral strategies. The fusion apparatus of paramyxoviruses consists of a receptor binding tetramer and a fusion protein trimer. Structural analyses of the receptor binding hemagglutinin-neuraminidases of certain paramyxoviruses suggest that fusion triggering is preceded by relocation of its head domains, facilitated by flexible linkers. Having noted a structurally unresolved 17-residue segment linking the globular heads to the tetrameric stalk of the measles virus hemagglutinin (H), we asked whether and how it may facilitate membrane fusion triggering. We conclude that, together with the top of the stalk, the flexible linker keeps H heads on a leash long enough to adopt a triggering-permissive conformation but short enough to limit roaming and improper contacts with heads of neighboring tetramers. All morbillivirus H-protein heads appear to be connected to their stalks through a “leash,” suggesting a conserved triggering mechanism.
Parallel Processing a Three-Dimensional Free-Lagrange Code: a Case History

A three-dimensional, time-dependent free-Lagrange hy drodynamics code has been multitasked and autotasked on a CRAY X-MP/416. The multitasking was done by using the Los Alamos Multitasking Control Library, which is a superset of the CRAY multitasking library. Autotasking is done by using constructs which are only comment cards if the source code is not run through a preprocessor. The three-dimensional algorithm has pre sented a number of problems that simpler algorithms, such as those for one-dimensional hydrodynamics, did not exhibit. Problems in converting the serial code, orig inally written for a CRAY-1, to a multitasking code are discussed. Autotasking of a rewritten version of the code is discussed. Timing results for subroutines and hot spots in the serial code are presented and suggestions for additional tools and debugging aids are given. Theo retical speedup results obtained from Amdahl's law and actual speedup results obtained on a dedicated machine are presented. Suggestions for designing large parallel codes are given.
Which generation is believed to be intellectually superior and which generation believes itself intellectually superior

The question of which generation is believed to be intellectually superior, and which generation believes itself to be intellectually superior led to the interviewing of 317 adults equally divided among three generations. All generations agreed in believing that: a) the middle aged know the most in general and have the greatest problem-solving ability; while b) young adults have the greatest desire for intellectual stimulation (with the old the least); they make the most attempts to receive intellectual stimulation (with the old making the fewest); they have the most opportunities for intellectual stimulation (with the old having the fewest), and the young adults actually receive the most intellectual stimulation (while the old receive the least). Young adults' self-report indicated that they believed that they had the most opportunities for intellectual stimulation and also were more frequently in receipt of intellectual stimulation as compared with the self-reports of the middle aged and old.
Electronic effects on carbon monoxide dissociation from iron(II) tetraphenylporhyrins

We report the kinetics of CO binding to a series of substituted ferrous tetra(4-X-phenyl)porphyrins (X = CF3, Cl, H, CH3, OCH3) in DMSO solvent using a mixture of 1,2-DMI/1-MeIm as proximal base. The CO dissociation rate constant increases with electron donation of the substituent X; the aggregate Hammett ρ value is -0.38. Using a Swain-Lupton analysis we determine the electronic effects to be transmitted 67% by through-bond or field effect and 33% by resonance. These results indicate that there is significant conjugation between the phenyl rings and the porphyrin core of iron tetraphenylporphyrin systems.
The Gender Factor in Six- to Ten-Year-Old Children's Views of Occupational Roles:

Differences in children's acceptance of occupational roles that are traditionally sex-typed by society were explored for a sample of 270 elementary school children, 135 boys and 135 girls. The degree of sex-typing was high among all subjects. Children viewed occupations as the role of one sex or the other, according to traditional sex-typed views.
Increased ouabain-sensitive glycolysis of lymphocytes treated with phytohemagglutinin: Relationship to potassium transport

An early increase in lymphocyte plasma membrane K/sup +/ transport is essential for PHA stimulated lymphocytes to divide. Little is known about the specific source and amount of energy required to support the increased transport by activated lymphocytes. Since ouabain, a cardiac glycoside, specifically inhibits the transport ATPase, we have measured the decrement in glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid cycle activity when untreated and PHA treated lymphocytes were exposed to ouabain. This metabolic decrement represents the portion of metabolism associated with monovalent cation transport and closely related processes. Since TCA cycle activity accounted for only 0.2 percent of glucose consumption, aerobic glycolysis was the major source of energy, i.e., ATP, for increased transport. Approximately one-third of the total lactate production in both control and PHA stimulated lymphocytes was ouabain-sensitive. Ouabain sensitive lactate production in control, 105 ..mu..mol/10/sup 10/ cells/hour, increased 1.8-fold to 193 ..mu..mol/10/sup 10/ cells/hour after PHA treatment. Active K/sup +/ influx in similar cell populations increased from 40 ..mu..mol/10/sup 10/ cells/hour to 74 ..mu..mol/10/sup 10/ cells/hour (1.9-fold) after PHA treatment. The increment in ouabain-sensitive energy production and K/sup +/ transport were closely correlated and, therefore, 0.38 moles of K/sup +/ are transported for each mole of ATP generated inmore » both control and PHA treated cells. The increased requirement for transport related energy is provided by increasing the ouabain-sensitive ATP production rather than altering the efficiency of ATP transduction.« less
Properties of (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase in rat liver plasma membranes enriched with bile canaliculi

Abstract Liver plasma membranes enriched in bile canaliculi were isolated from rat liver by a modification of the technique of Song et al. (J. Cell Biol. (1969) 41, 124–132) in order to study the possible role of ATPase in bile secretion. Optimum conditions for assaying (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase in this membrane fraction were defined using male rats averaging 220 g in weight. (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase activity was documented by demonstrating specific cation requirements for Na+ and K+, while the divalent cation, Ca2+, and the cardiac glycosides, ouabain and scillaren, were inhibitory. (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase activity averaged 10.07 ± 2.80 μmol Pi/mg protei per h compared to 50.03 ± 11.41 for Mg2+-activated ATPase and 58.66 ± 10.07 for 5′-nucleotidase. Concentrations of ouabain and scillaren which previously inhibited canalicular bile secretion in the isolated perfused rat liver produced complete inhibition of (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase without any effect on Mg2+-activated ATPase. Both (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase and Mg2+-activated ATPase demonstrated temperature dependence but differed in temperature optima. Temperature induced changes in specific activity of (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase directly paralleled previously demonstrated temperature optima for bile secretion. These studies indicate that (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase is present in fractions of rat liver plasma membranes that are highly enriched in bile canaliculi and provide a model for further study of the effects of various physiological and chemical modifiers of bile secretion and cholestasis.
Effects of pretreatments on state of gallium and aromatization activity of gallium/ZSM-5 catalysts

Abstract Additional evidence is presented for the role of gallium reduction in preparing active Ga/ZSM-5 catalysts for alkane aromatization. The gallium in ion-exchanged ZSM-5, both with and without additional Ga 2 O 3 , can be reduced to Ga + , in the former case up to a limit determined by the number of anionic framework sites. An ion-exchanged, reduced catalyst exhibits similar redox behavior, and is as active for propane aromatization, as catalysts prepared from purely physical mixtures of Ga 2 O 3 and H-ZSM-5. Although reduction generates dispersed, active gallium species in zeolite channels, it is shown that for ethane dehydrogenation to aromatics the reduced (with hydrogen) Ga/ZSM-5 catalysts are not as active or selective as are materials which have been substantially reoxidized either by air or by traces of oxygen in inert gases. A combination of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies has been used to confirm that rapid reoxidation takes place at 550°C. However, the reoxidation does not regenerate β-Ga 2 O 3 , but rather a higher energy, dispersed Ga 3+ which appears to be optimal for production of aromatics from ethane. This form of Ga 3+ is stable under reaction conditio
Keck 1 deployable tertiary mirror (K1DM3)

We aim to build a new tertiary mirror (M3) and its mount for the 10 m Keck I (K1) telescope at the W. M. Keck Observatory (WMKO) to make its full observational capabilities available for time-sensitive scientific programs.. In contrast to the existing tertiary mirror and mount, the device will rapidly deploy and rotate the mirror to any instrument at a Nasmyth focus or, as desired, stow the mirror out of the light path to permit observations at the Cassegrain focus. In this manner, the K1 deployable tertiary mirror (K1DM3) will enable observations with any of the K1 instruments on any given night, and at any given time. The K1DM3 device will be integrated within the K1 telescope control system and WMKO has committed to a new operations model that takes full advantage of this new capability.
Analysis of raster scanning damage and conditioning experiments

The raster scan technique is used for large optics damage tests and laser conditioning. We show that the "effective area" concept enables the possibility to compare various scanning schemes and to use raster scan experiments for NIF optics damage prediction. It is shown that the hexagonal lattice of laser beam imprints yields optimal use of each shot for most of the typically used parameters. The effects of beam fluence fluctuations and pointing inaccuracies on experiments are evaluated. To analyze raster scan conditioning experiments, we introduce the concept of "effective dose," i.e. total dose averaged over a unit cell of the scan lattice. This allows various scanning schemes to be compared quantitatively.
Visualizing an information technology project: The role of powerpoint presentations over time

Using longitudinal field data, this paper examines the changing role of visual powerpoint media over the course of a large, multi-year information systems project in a regional U.S. bank. Existing research has generally focused on visual representation of relatively static objects in medical, scientific and engineering contexts, but projects are an inherently dynamic collection of activities-distributed over time and space-that progress through a beginning, middle and end. This analysis of the visual presentation material used in an IT project highlights the abstract nature of the referent (the project). The dominant presentation technology in use in this project was the powerpoint presentation; this paper analyzes the changes in the presentations over time, and inscription and conscription at different stages of the project.
Comprehensive Digital Imaging Network Project At Georgetown University Hospital

The radiology practice is going through rapid changes due to the introduction of state-of-the-art computed based technologies. For the last twenty years we have witnessed the introduction of many new medical diagnostic imaging systems such as x-ray computed tomo-graphy, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), computerized nuclear medicine, single pho-ton emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET) and more re-cently, computerized digital radiography and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other than the imaging systems, there has been a steady introduction of computed based information systems for radiology departments and hospitals.
UCLA Community College Review: Academic Literacy for English Language Learners

This study provides background information about English Language Learners (ELLs) and gives an overview of issues related to academic literacy. The article then considers how the institutional stru...
Binding of fluorescent lanthanides to rat liver mitochondrial membranes and calcium ion-binding proteins.

1. (1) Tb3+ binding to mitochondrial membranes can be monitored by enhanced ion fluorescence at 545 nm with excitation at 285 nm. At low protein concentrations (/s ⩽ 30μg/ml) no inner filter effects are observed. 2. (2) This binding is localized at the external surface of the inner membrane and is unaffected by inhibitors of respiration or oxidative phosphorylation. 3. (3) A soluble Ca2+ binding protein isolated according to Lehringer, A. L. ((1971) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 42, 312–317) also binds Tb3+ with enhanced ion fluorescence upon excitation at 285 nm. The excitation spectrum of the isolated protein and of the intact mitochondria are indicative of an aromatic amino acid at the cation binding site. 4. (4) Further characterization of the Tb3+-protein interaction revealed that there is more than one binding site per protein molecule and that these sites are clustered (< 20 A). Neuraminidase treatment or organic solvent extraction of the protein did not affect fluorescent Tb3+ binding. 5. (5) pH dependency studies of Tb3+ binding to the isolated protein or intact mitochondria demonstrated the importance of an ionizable group of pK > 6. At pH < 7.5 the amount of Tb3+ bound to the isolated protein decreased with increase in pH as monitored by Tb3+ fluorescence. With intact mitochondria the opposite occurred with a large increase in Tb3+ fluorescence at higher pH. This increase was not observed when the mitochondria were preincubated with antimycin A and rotenone.
Using Concept Maps and Interpretive Essays for Assessment in Mathematics

This study explored the use of student-constructed concept maps in conjunction with written interpretive essays as an additional method of assessment in three undergraduate mathematics courses. The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate the benefits of using concept maps and written essays to assess the “connectedness” of students' knowledge; to measure the correlation between students' scores on the concept maps and written essays, course exams, and final grade; and to document students' perception of the effect of this approach on their mathematical knowledge. Results indicated that concept maps, when combined with written essays, are viable tools for assessing students' organization of mathematical knowledge. In addition, students perceive this approach as enhancing their mathematical knowledge.
Silodosin: A selective α1A-adrenergic receptor antagonist for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Abstract Background: Silodosin is a new α 1 -adrenergic receptor antagonist that is selective for the α 1A -adrenergic receptor. It was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008 for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Objective: This article reviews the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, adverse effects, drug interactions, and dosage and administration of silodosin in adult male patients with BPH. Methods: A search of MEDLINE (1950–October 8, 2009), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–October 8, 2009), and the Iowa Drug Information Service database (1966–October 8, 2009) was conducted using the terms silodosin, KMD-3213, benign prostatic hyperplasia , and α 1 - adrenergic receptor antagonist . Reports of research and review articles published in English were identified and evaluated, and the bibliographies of these articles were reviewed for additional relevant publications. A search of the FDA Web site was performed, and abstracts and posters presented at scientific meetings of the American Urological Association were reviewed. Results: By antagonizing α 1A -adrenergic receptors in the prostate and urethra, silodosin causes smooth muscle relaxation in the LUT. Silodosin has greater affinity for the α 1A -adrenergic receptor than for the α 1B -adrenergic receptor (by a factor of 583), minimizing the propensity for blood pressure-related adverse effects mediated by α 1B blockade. In 3 controlled clinical studies in patients with BPH-related LUTS (1 published; 2 presented in the prescribing information and published in a pooled analysis), patients receiving silodosin at a total daily dose of 8 mg had significant improvements in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and maximum urinary flow rate (Q max ) compared with those receiving placebo (both, P 22%), and the incidence of orthostatic hypotension was low ( Conclusions: In the small number of clinical trials reviewed, silodosin was associated with significant reductions in IPSS and Q max compared with placebo. To determine whether silodosin's selectivity for the α 1A -adrenergic receptor translates into a clinical advantage relative to other available agents, long-term studies evaluating the comparative efficacy and tolerability of silodosin and other α 1 -blockers (specifically tamsulosin) are necessary.
The ketogenic diet: a review of the experience at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center

We undertook a retrospective analysis of epilepsy patients referred and treated for more than 6 months with the ketogenic diet during 1994-1999 at Connecticut Children's Medical Center. Outcome measures included antiepileptic drug number, seizure frequency, electroencephalogram background/paroxysmal activity, and adverse effects at 6 months and 1 year on the ketogenic diet. The final cohort included 24 of 48 referred patients (mean age, 6.5 years; range = 1-15 years of age). The etiology of epilepsy was equally divided between idiopathic and cryptogenic epilepsy and symptomatic epilepsy. Intention to treat analysis revealed that 35% (17 of 48) achieved more than 50% reduction in seizure frequency, and 8.5% (four of 48) were seizure-free by 6 months. A sustained 50% or greater reduction at 1 year was observed in 23% (11 of 48), and the same 8.5% (four of 48) remained seizure-free. None of these improvements were statistically related to age (P = 0.97), sex (P = 0.78), or epilepsy etiology (P = 0.80). The number of antiepileptic drugs used per patient decreased. Electroencephalogram at 1 year demonstrated an improvement in background in 31% (five of 16 patients) and a reduction in paroxysmal features in 37.5% (6 of 16 patients). Most adverse effects were mild, self-limited, and occurred early. Hyperuricemia (more than 6 mg/dL) was more persistent in three patients.
Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction

Advances in surgical technique and dental implant technology have benefitted both patients and practitioners alike. Earlier diagnosis and treatment, along with increased survival, has made it incumbent on the dental professional to be aware of what can be done for the formerly unrestorable patient. This cooperative team approach works to everyone's advantage.
Identification of opportunities for quality improvement and outcome measurement in pediatric otolaryngology.

Importance Despite increased emphasis on measuring safety outcomes and quality indicators for surgical care, little is known regarding which operative procedures should be prioritized for quality-improvement initiatives in pediatric otolaryngology. Objective To describe the 30-day adverse event rates and relative contributions to morbidity for procedures in pediatric otolaryngology surgery using data from the American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric database (ACS-NSQIP-P). Design, Setting, and Participants Analysis of records contained in the ACS-NSQIP-P 2011-2012 clinical database. The ACS-NSQIP-P is a nationwide risk-adjusted, clinical outcomes–based program aimed at measuring and improving pediatric surgical care. Fifty hospitals participated in the 2011-2012 ACS-NSQIP-P program. Medical records of patients who underwent tracked otolaryngologic procedures were accrued in the ACS-NSQIP-P database. These were inclusive of specific otolaryngologic surgical procedures and do not represent the entire spectrum of pediatric otolaryngology surgical procedures. Main Outcomes and Measures Individual 30-day adverse events, composite morbidity, composite serious adverse events, and composite hospital-acquired infections were compiled. Clinically related procedure groups were used to broadly evaluate outcomes. Procedures and groups were evaluated according to their relative contribution to otolaryngologic morbidity and their incidence of major complications. Results A total of 8361 patients underwent 1 of 40 selected otolaryngology procedures; 90% were elective; 76% were performed on an outpatient or ambulatory basis; and 46% were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class 2 cases. Individual 30-day adverse event rates were highest for return to the operating room (4%), surgical site infection (2%), pneumonia (1%), sepsis (1%), and reintubation (1%). The highest rates of composite morbidity were seen for tracheostomy in patients younger than 2 years (23%), airway reconstruction (19%), and tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy (2%). Airway reconstruction procedures had the highest rates of composite serious adverse events (16%), followed by tracheostomy (13%) and abscess drainage (5%). Tracheostomy (31%) and airway reconstruction (16%) made the largest relative contributions to composite morbidity rate of the procedures studied. Tracheostomy in patients younger than 2 years had the highest composite hospital-acquired infection rate (14%), followed by airway reconstruction procedures (11%) and tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy (2%). Conclusions and Relevance While the overall rate of major postoperative morbidity in pediatric otolaryngology is low, areas for targeted quality-improvement interventions include tracheostomy, airway reconstruction, mastoidectomy, and abscess drainage. Measurement of outcomes specific to otolaryngologic procedures will be necessary to further identify and measure the impact of quality-improvement initiatives in pediatric otolaryngology.
Inhibition of atrial fibrillation by low-level vagus nerve stimulation: the role of the nitric oxide signaling pathway

We examined the role of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway in low-level vagus nerve stimulation (LLVNS)-mediated inhibition of atrial fibrillation (AF). In 17 pentobarbital anesthetized dogs, bilateral thoracotomies allowed the attachment of electrode catheters to the superior and inferior pulmonary veins and atrial appendages. Rapid atrial pacing (RAP) was maintained for 6 h. Each hour, programmed stimulation was used to determine the window of vulnerability (WOV), a measure of AF inducibility, at all sites. During the last 3 h, RAP was overlapped with right LLVNS (50 % below that which slows the sinus rate). In group 1 (n = 7), LLVNS was the only intervention, whereas in groups 2 (n = 6) and 3 (n = 4), the NO synthase inhibitor N G-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) and the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin, respectively, were injected in the right-sided ganglionated plexi (GP) during the last 3 h. The duration of acetylcholine-induced AF was determined at baseline and at 6 h. Voltage–sinus rate curves were constructed to assess GP function. LLVNS significantly decreased the acetylcholine-induced AF duration by 8.2 ± 0.9 min (p < 0.0001). Both l-NAME and wortmannin abrogated this effect. The cumulative WOV (the sum of the individual WOVs) decreased toward baseline with LLVNS (p < 0.0001). l-NAME and wortmannin blunted this effect during the fifth (l-NAME only, p < 0.05) and the sixth hour (l-NAME and wortmannin, p < 0.05). LLVNS suppressed the ability of GP stimulation to slow the sinus rate, whereas l-NAME and wortmannin abolished this effect. The anti-arrhythmic effects of LLVNS involve the PI3K/NO signaling pathway.
Spectroscopy of the high-lying configurations in 210 Bi

Levels in210Bi were studied using the reaction209Bi(n, γ)210Bi thermal neutrons. Ten configurations were studied — the fourth through the thirteenth in order of increasing energy. Gamma rays from 63 to 4285 keV were observed using three different modes of observation. Fifty-seven states with energies, spins and parities were assigned to configurations in210Bi. The experimental multiplets were compared with the theoretical calculations of Kim and Rasmussen and Herling and Kuo.
The status of research in the lodging industry

Abstract This paper examines the scope, activities and need for research in the lodging industry. It reviews over seventy articles on hotel research and classifies them into the four categories of market research, operations management, personnel management and development. The literature review is followed by the results of a survey of 44 hotel chains in the U.S. to assess their research activities. The survey confirmed a generally held view that few hotel chains actually operate their own research departments; and where in-house research activities are performed, they deal mostly with operations and personnel problems on a short-run basis. Outside consultants, however, are frequently hired by hotel chains to do feasibility or market studies for expanding operations. Both the literature review and survey results indicate an increasing need for applied and basic research with both short- and long-term perspectives to assist decision-makers faced with complex and multiple marketing and operations problems in the hotel industry. Suggested areas for further research are included to stimulate interest among academic and industry researchers to conduct the needed studies.
Diversity in specificity of the extracellular proteinases in Lactobacillus helveticus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus.

Aims: To investigate the diversity in specificity of cell-bound extracellular proteinases in Lactobacillus helveticus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. Methods and Results: HPLC analysis of whole-cell preparations of 14 Lact. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and eight Lact. helveticus strains incubated with αs1-casein (f 1–23) detected at least six distinct proteolytic patterns. Differences between groups were found in both the primary and secondary specificity toward αs1-casein (f 1–23) and its breakdown products. No correlation was found between the o-phthaldialdehyde (OPA) general proteolysis analysis and αs1-casein (f 1–23) cleavage profiles. Conclusions, Significance and Impact of Study: Using the αs1-CN (f 1–23) method, six patterns of proteolysis were found in the dairy lactobacilli tested. Understanding the influence of Lactobacillus proteinase specificity on casein degradation should facilitate efforts to develop starter cultures that predictably improve the functional properties of Mozzarella cheese.
Humor in therapy: the case for training therapists in its uses and risks.

Abstract Formal humor training for therapists is proposed as an elective part of their academic curriculum. The paucity of rigorous empirical research on the effectiveness of this historically controversial form of clinical intervention is exceeded only by the absence of any training for those practitioners interested in applying humor techniques. A representative sample of its many advocates' recommendations to incorporate humor in the practice of psychological therapies is reviewed. Therapeutic humor is defined, the role of therapists' personal qualities is discussed, and possible reasons for the profession's past resistance to promoting humor in therapy are described. Research perspectives for the evaluation of humor training are presented with illustrative examples of important empirical questions. In addition to its potential salubrious effects on clients, therapeutic humor might have the positive side effect of preventing or minimizing professional burnout in therapists. This potentially major psych...
Growth and photodissociation of AgxC60 cation complexes

Abstract Gas-phase complexes of C60 with silver atoms and small silver clusters are produced in a molecular beam and studied with time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The cation complexes are produced in a laser vaporization cluster source using a silver rod coated with a sublimed film of C60. Cluster masses of the form [AgxC60]+ are observed for x = 1–5. Additionally, an intense mass is observed at Ag(C60)2+. Mass-selected photodissociation experiments probe the structure and bonding in these novel cluster species.
Addressing Residual Risk Issues at Anthrax Cleanups: How Clean is Safe?

Since the 2001 attacks in which Bacillus anthracisspores were mailed to various media offices and two U.S. Senators, considerable interest has focused on developing estimates of the risk of contracting inhalational anthrax from exposure to such spores. Credible risk estimates would have significant utility in establishing future cleanup goals for contaminated sites. To perform a meaningful risk assessment, one needs sufficient data to identify the hazards, conduct dose-response assessment, and assess exposure. This report reviews the existing data on mortality produced by Bacillus anthracisspores in laboratory animals and humans. In particular, it focuses on the 11 cases of inhalational anthrax resulting from the 2001 attacks and their impact on hazard identification activities. It also addresses factors that may contribute to increased risk among exposed populations and the sources of uncertainty in dose response analysis. The article examines the state of the science for assessing exposure levels to Bacillus anthracis spores and concludes that significant challenges exist to performing robust assessments of risk. This conclusion supports the policy position of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that there should be no growth of Bacillus anthracis spores from all postremediation environmental samples, for the cleanup of a site to be judged effective and for that site to be considered safe for reoccupancy. This has been the ultimate criterion for efficacy of cleanups performed in response to the 2001 anthrax attacks.
Effects of Feeding Diets with and without Fish Meal on the Production of Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Stocked at Varying Densities

Animal protein, generally fish meal, has traditionally been used in the diet of channel catfish. However, our previous research indicates that animal protein is not needed for growing stocker-size catfish to food fish when the fish are stocked at densities typical of those used in commercial catfish culture. Whether this holds when fish are stocked at high densities is not known; thus, we conducted an experiment to evaluate the effect of feeding diets with and without fish meal to channel catfish stocked in earthen ponds at different densities. Two 32% protein practical diets containing 0% or 6% menhaden fish meal were compared for pond-raised channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, stocked at densities of 14,820, 29,640, or 44,460 fish/ha. Fingerling channel catfish with average initial weight of 48 g/fish were stocked into 30, 0.04 ha ponds. Five ponds were randomly allotted for each fish meal level × stocking density combination. Fish were fed once daily to satiation for two growing seasons. There was a ...
Regulation of Hepatic Glucose Metabolism by Leptin in Pig and Rat Primary Hepatocyte Cultures

Direct effects of leptin on gluconeogenesis in rat hepatocytes are equivocal, and model systems from other species have not been extensively explored in assessing the regulation of glucose metabolism by leptin. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to compare the effects of leptin on gluconeogenesis in pig and rat hepatocyte cultures as well as to investigate an underlying mechanism of action at the level of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK). In rat hepatocytes, leptin exposure (3 h, 50 and 100 nM) attenuated glucagon-stimulated hepatic gluconeogenesis by 35 and 38% (P < 0.05), respectively. However, leptin did not produce any significant acute effect in pig hepatocytes. Leptin exposure for 24 h failed to produce any significant effect on gluconeogenesis in either rat or pig hepatocytes cultured in the presence of glucagon or dexamethasone. Mechanistically, there was a 25-35% decrease (P < 0.05) in glucagon-induced PEPCK mRNA levels in rat but not pig hepatocytes cultured with leptin. This effect on PEPCK mRNA was not due to an alteration in the relative abundance of the leptin receptor or the ability of PEPCK to respond to cAMP. The nonuniformity of the effects of leptin on gluconeogenesis in pig and rat hepatocytes indicates differences in leptin action between species. Furthermore, the unique action of leptin in porcine hepatocytes points to the utility of this model system for biomedical research and also underscores the value of comparative studies.
EPR/NMR co-imaging for anatomic registration of free-radical images.

While electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) enables spatial mapping of free radicals in the whole body of small animals, it solely visualizes the free-radical distribution and does not typically provide anatomic visualization of the body. However, anatomic registration is often required for meaningful interpretation of the EPRI-derived free-radical images. An approach is reported for whole-body, EPRI-based, free-radical imaging along with proton MRI in mice. EPRI instrumentation with a 750-MHz narrow band microwave bridge and transverse oriented electric field reentrant resonator, with automatic coupling control and automatic tuning control capability, was used to map the spatial distribution of nitroxide free radicals in phantoms and in living mice, while low-field proton MRI at 16 MHz was used to define the anatomic structure to register the EPR images. Small capillary tubes containing an aqueous radical label were used as markers to enable image superimposition. With this coregistration technique, the EPRI free-radical images were precisely registered, enabling assignment of the location of the observed free-radical distribution within the organs of the mice. This technique enabled differentiation of the distribution and metabolism of nitroxide radicals within the major organs and body sites of living mice.
Potential of using remote sensing for forecasting malaria in Tripura, India

This study examined the relationship between environmental factors and malaria epidemic. The objective is to use NOAA environmental satellite data to produce weather seasonal forecasts as a proxy for predicting malaria epidemics in Tripura, India which has the one of the highest endemic of malaria cases in the country. An algorithm uses the Vegetation Health (VH) Indices (Vegetation Condition Index( VCI) and Temperature Condition Index (TCI)) computed from Advance Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) data flown on NOAA afternoon poler orbiting satellite.. A good correlation was found between malaria cases and TCI two months earlier than the malaria transmission period. Principal components regression (PCR) method was used to develop a model to predict malaria as a function of the TCI. The simulated results were compared with observed malaria statistics showing that the error of the estimates of malaria is small. Remote sensing therefore is a valuable tool for estimating malaria well in advance thus preventive measures can be taken.
Intent-to-treat analysis for clinical trials: use of data collected after termination of treatment protocol

Following patients for a period of time after termination of treatment protocols is a common practice in clinical trials of drug treatments. After termination of the protocol treatment, patients are usually provided with medical care as deemed appropriate, e.g. different doses of the same drug, augmentation with other drugs, or different drugs. Data collected on patients when they are not in the treatment protocol are termed "off-treatment" data to be differentiated from "on-treatment" data that are collected while patients are in the treatment protocol. The purpose of the present paper is to describe some recent statistical methodological advances in the use of "off-treatment" data for intent-to-treat (IT) analysis using mixture models [Biometrics 52 (1996) 1002]. Two-piece spline models conditional on the protocol treatment dropout time are developed first. The two pieces of the spline model represent the on-treatment and off-treatment segments of data and are joined at the dropout time. The weighted average of the two-piece conditional models across realizations of the dropout times provides the mixture model for the pragmatic IT analysis. The weights are the estimates of the probabilities of the dropout times. The mixture model is amenable to an explanatory analysis which assumes that the patients remain on their assigned treatments. The model allows the parameters of the splines to depend on the dropout time. Statistical inference is based on bootstrap sampling procedures. We have illustrated this methodology using data from a drug trial comparing nortriptyline and paroxetine in the treatment of major depression in older patients.
The relationship between quality protein, lean mass, and bone health

Background The amount of quality protein (Essential Amino Acids (EAA): Protein) intake, and distribution of that protein to a meal, could play an important role with regard to lean mass (LM), bone mineral density (BMD), and bone mineral content (BMC). Research has demonstrated that muscle protein synthesis (MPS) is maximally stimulated at ~10g of EAA per meal (Cuthbertson, et al. 2005). A cross sectional study sought to determine the relationship between the amount of quality protein consumed in 24 hours and the amount of times the ~10g EAA threshold was reached at a meal, with respect to LM, BMD, and BMC.
A novel measurement fixture for characterizing USB 3.0 radio frequency interference

USB 3.0 running at 5 Gbps can radiate and interfere with the wireless communication technologies integrated in mobile computer designs. The interference degrades the wireless performance such as data throughput and results in bad user experience. It is important to define compliance test methods to ensure good designs in both system and component levels. In this paper, a new and simple test fixture and the measurement methods for USB 3.0 radio frequency interference compliance testing are proposed.
The rights and responsibilities of capital

Society is struggling to adapt to a new order of human needs and priorities, and a leading futurist questions whether traditional concepts of free enterprise, profit and private property can adequately cope with the complex pressures of dwindling resources, inflation, and unemployment.
Lactose flux occurs by differing mechanisms in the colon and jejunum of newborn piglets.

ABSTRACT: The unidirectional flux of 10− and 40-mM lactose was studied in newborn porcine jejunum and colon mounted in Ussing chambers. Polyethylene glycol 400 was used to measure passive paracellular permeability. The mucosal-to-serosal flux and the tissue accumulation of labeled lactose from the colon was similar to that of lactose-derived glucose from the jejunum. However, only jejunum showed a lactose-stimulated increase in short-circuit current. In jejunum, glucose was the sole sugar identified in the serosal bath, whereas in colon, only intact lactose was identified. Despite colonic lactose flux, polyethylene glycol oligomers were not found in the serosal bath, suggesting that they do not share the same route of absorption. Colonic lactose transport was nonsaturable between 1 and 40 mM. Under nongradient conditions, no net colonic lactose transport was observed. Cumulatively, these data suggest that the colon, unlike the jejunum, does not contain a glucose-galactose sodium cotransporter. The colon of the newborn piglet transports intact lactose at a flux equal to that of lactose-derived glucose by the small intestine, but by a different mechanism that is as yet undefined.
International Business Research Production: 1991-1995.

ABSTRACT This study examines productivity in seven international business journals from 1991 to 1995. The evidence suggests that international business research is highly competitive. Although a high percentage of articles are produced by U.S. authors, international research productivity is widespread across the globe. Further, there is an increasing trend in the percentage of foreign authors contributing international business research. This study also finds that there is a wide dispersion of productive institutions and individual authors.