cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pintail Comb Injury as a Rare Cause of Penetrating Temporal Bone Trauma With Facial Paralysis

We present a case of novel penetrating temporal bone trauma with a pintail comb causing facial paralysis. We describe a 42-year-old woman with acute facial paralysis, hearing loss, and dizziness following accidental tympanic membrane puncture. The patient underwent middle ear exploration with tympanoplasty and was found to have an intact but severely edematous facial nerve. The patient demonstrated less than 90% degeneration under electroneuronography and was treated medically without decompression, and by 6 months had exhibited complete resolution of facial nerve dysfunction with normal hearing. This case report highlights a unique cause of penetrating temporal bone trauma and supports the utility of electroneuronography in predicting the likelihood of recovery and need for decompression in patients where the facial nerve has obvious signs of trauma but remains grossly intact.
Outcomes of nonoperative management of acromial stress fractures after reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Abstract Introduction Acromial stress fractures (ASF) and stress reactions (ASR) are common complications after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), and have been shown to compromise outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcomes of patients with ASF and ASR treated nonoperatively. Methods A total of 958 patients that underwent RSA were retrospectively reviewed. 43 (4.5%) were found to have ASF and 56 (5.7%) were found to have ASR. ASF were defined by tenderness over the acromion with identified fracture on radiographic imaging, and ASR was defined as tenderness without radiographic evidence of fracture. Functional outcomes were assessed via American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Simple Shoulder Test (SST) and VAS (Visual Analog scale) pain at a minimum of 2 years after RSA and one year from diagnosis of acromial pathology. The ASF patients were matched 3:1 to RSA controls without acromial pathology based on age, sex, indication, and implant. Results Twenty seven ASF and 35 ASR patients met inclusion criteria with a mean follow-up of 50.3 months after surgery (range: 24-108 months). Symptom onset after RSA occurred at 8.1 ± 8.9 months (range: 0.8-49.8) in ASFs and 7.5 ± 6.8 months (range: 1.0-41.3) in ASRs (P = .700). The ASF group included 20 (74%) females with an average age of 71.8 years, and the ASR group included 30 (86%) females with an average age of 72.9 years. ASF patients had inferior outcomes compared to controls in ASES (57.8 vs. 76.0, P = .001), SANE (59.1 vs. 78.8, P = .001), SST (5.1 vs. 7.5, P = .001), and VAS (3.3 vs. 1.2, P = .002). Additionally, ASF patients had significantly worse scores compared to ASR patients by VAS Pain (3.3 vs 1.7, P = .020), ASES (57.8 vs. 76.7, P = .001), SANE (59.1 vs. 81.1, P = .001), and SST (5.1 vs. 7.5, P = .001). Patients with ASR had comparable pain and function to controls in ASES (P = .858), SANE (P = .508), SST (P = .956), and VAS (P = .264) scores. Twenty-one (77.7%) ASF patients experienced fracture displacement and 13 (48.1%) went on to nonunion. Conclusion Early follow-up of patients treated nonsurgically for ASF after RSA demonstrated worse pain and function compared to controls. The majority demonstrated further displacement after diagnosis and almost half developed a nonunion. Patients with ASR experienced temporary dysfunction with little impact on final outcome. Strategies to prevent and treat ASFs remain an area in need of innovation. Level of evidence Level IV; Case series
Verification & validation by docking: a case study of agent-based models of Anopheles gambiae

In this paper, using the technique of docking, we perform verification & validation (V&V) of agent-based simulation models that simulate the life cycle of Anopheles gambiae, the primary vector for malaria transmission. Working with one (out of several) particular version of the core conceptual simulation model, we perform: (1) verification between two separate implementations (Java & C++) built independently from the core model, and (2) validation by comparing these implementations to the core model. Incremental agreement in model output by iterative docking serves the purpose of increasing confidence to the core model and revealing conceptual errors in model-building, as well as to clarify concepts and eliminate semantic ambiguities. Results indicate that V&V should be performed in parallel, and the entire docking process should be iterative in nature, utilizing well-planned feedback from earlier implementations.
Water stress effects on toluene biodegradation by Pseudomonas putida

We quantified the effects of matric and solute water potential on toluene biodegradation by Pseudomonas putida mt-2, a bacterial strain originally isolated from soil. Across the matric potential range of 0 to -1.5 MPa, growth rates were maximal for P. putida at -0.25 MPa and further reductions in the matric potential resulted in concomitant reductions in growth rates. Growth rates were constant over the solute potential range 0 to -1.0 MPa and lower at -1.5 MPa. First order toluene depletion rate coefficients were highest at 0.0 MPa as compared to other matric water potentials down to -1.5 MPa. Solute potentials down to -1.5 MPa did not affect first order toluene depletion rate coefficients. Total yield (protein) and carbon utilization efficiency were not affected by water potential, indicating that water potentials common to temperate soils were not sufficiently stressful to change cellular energy requirements. We conclude that for P. putida: (1) slightly negative matric potentials facilitate faster growth rates on toluene but more negative water potentials result in slower growth, (2) toluene utilization rate per cell mass is highest without matric water stress and is unaffected by solute potential, (3) growth efficiency did not differ across the range of matric water potentials 0.0 to -1.5 MPa.
Local Time and Tanaka’s Formula

In this chapter B denotes a Brownian motion in ℝ. For each x ∞ ℝ we shall obtain a decomposition, known as Tanaka’s formula, of the positive submartingale |B — x| as the sum of another Brownian motion \(\hat B\) and a continuous increasing process L(·, x). The latter is called the local time of B at x, a fundamental notion invented by P. Levy (see [19]).
Size-Dependent Sensitivity of Three Species of Stream Invertebrates to pH Depression

Three species of stream invertebrates, the caddis fly Lepidostoma liba (Ross), the isopod Asellus intermedius (Forbes), and the snail Physella heterostropha (Say), were found to be highly vulnerable to depression to pH 4.0 with 70% sulfuric acid (H 2 SO 3 ) and 30% nitric acid (HNO 3 ) from a control pH of 6.7 to 7.2. This vulnerability was directly correlated to size with smaller individuals being much less tolerant to pH 4 depression than were larger individuals. Smaller size classes, including egg masses of P. heterostropha, were totally eliminated by exposure to pH 4. Survival increased as initial body mass increased past a threshold size (0.5 mg dry weight per individual for A. intermedius, 0.6 mg for L. liba, and at a shell length of 4 mm for P. heterostropha). Depression of pH from 7 to 4 also depressed growth rates for A. intermedius, and L. liba. This experiment was conducted in recirculating laboratory streams operated near ambient temperatures at 8-week intervals throughout the year.
Associations between the neuroendocrine and immune systems.

Organisms respond to infection with complex adaptations involving bidirectional communication between the immune and neuroendocrine systems. The idea of intercellular communication between the neuroendocrine and immune systems via common signal molecules has provided a conceptual framework for such crosstalk. The studies to date show that cells of the immune system contain receptors for neuroendocrine hormones and can also be considered a source of pituitary and hypothalamic peptides. The structure and pattern of synthesis of these peptides by leukocytes appear similar to neuroendocrine hormones, although some differences exist. Once secreted, these peptide hormones may function as endogenous regulators of the immune system as well as conveyors of information from the immune to the neuroendocrine system. The plasma hormone concentrations contributed by lymphocytes usually do not reach the levels required when the pituitary gland is the source, but because immune cells are mobile, they have the potential to locally deposit the hormone at the target site. Likewise, other studies show that cells of the neuroendocrine system contain receptors for cytokines and can also be considered a source of cytokines, particularly interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6. In the pituitary IL-1 beta coexists with thyroid stimulating hormone in a subpopulation of thyrotropes, suggesting it may have a role as a pituitary paracrine factor. The cytokines, including IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor, exert profound effects on hypothalamic pituitary axes. It is our hypothesis that the relay of information to the neuroendocrine system represents a sensory function for the immune system wherein leukocytes recognize stimuli that are not recognizable by the central and peripheral nervous systems (i.e., bacteria, tumors, viruses, and antigens). The recognition of such noncognitive stimuli by immunocytes is then converted into information and a physiological change occurs. Future studies into the physiological role that cytokines and neuroendocrine hormones have in these systems will be of considerable interest for both immunologists and endocrinologists.
Diverse in Name Only? Intercultural Interaction at a Multicultural University

This study analyzed the frequency and nature of intercultural contact among multicultural university students so as to explore the contextualized shape of intercultural interaction. Unlike past intercultural contact research, this study pushed beyond ascertaining if intercultural contact is being made to examining specific interactional details and topics that constitute already existing contact. We collected survey responses from 4 major racial/ethnic groups-Latino/as, Blacks/African Americans, Whites/European Americans, and Asian Americans-regarding the frequency and nature of intercultural interactions. The results indicate that each group engages in narrow interaction patterns with only 1 other major racial/ ethnic group and that most intercultural interaction occurs on campus in class or off campus at work. In addition, it suggests that individuals define intercultural contact in different and often contradictory ways.
Refractive surgery for accommodative esotropia: past, present, and future.

Introduction.Refractive surgery has the potential to be a definitive treatment for accommodative esotropia, yet it has not been widely embraced. This article reviews the current literature on refra...
Organ distribution and tumor uptake of liposome entrapped cis-bis-neodecanoato trans-R, R-1,2 diaminocyclohexane platinum (II) administered intravenously and into the proper hepatic artery

Blood and tissue levels of elemental platinum (Pt) were measured after the administration of a liposomally entrapped cisplatin analogue, cis-bis-neodecanoato-trans-R,R-1,2-diaminocyclohexane platinum (II) (L-NDDP). In mice bearing subcutaneous B16 melanoma tumors, Pt tumor levels were not significantly different in animals treated i.v. with an equimolar dose of L-NDDP or cisplatin. In rabbits bearing liver tumors of VX2 carcinoma, i.v. administration of L-NDDP resulted in 2- to 20-fold higher Pt levels in all tissues (including VX2 tumors) except the brain and peripheral nerve than in animals treated with an equimolar dose of cisplatin. Compared with i.v. administration, inoculation of either drug into the proper hepatic artery resulted in a severalfold increase of Pt levels in the VX2 tumors. Blood and other tissue levels were not substantially changed by intraarterial (i.a.) administration. These studies show that (1) multilamellar lipid vesicles can adequately deliver a lipophilic cisplatin analogue (NDDP) to nonphagocytic tumors when administered i.v. and (2) the inoculation of L-NDDP into the proper hepatic artery results in higher Pt tumor levels than with i.v. administration but does not decrease the systemic distribution of the drug.
The lizard family Teiidae: is it a monophyletic group?

The lizard family Teiidae is questioned and redefined. Two monophyletic groups, the family Teiidae (the macroteilds) and the family Gymnophthalmidae (the microteiids) are recognized. The teiids are suggested to be closely aligned with the Iguanomorpha while the gymnophthalmids are related to the lacertids.
Universal scaling of plateau width in the quantum Hall effect

Abstract The plateau width in the quantum Hall effect follows a general scaling rule with ΔB / B 0 2 being a constant for all the filling factors of integer intervals. This scaling rule can be derived based on the energy spectrum of two-dimensional electrons forming a crystal lattice in the presence of a strong magnetic field.
Binary fission via lnviscid Trajectories

Abstract We sketch an evolutionary picture which, unlike the classical picture, appears favorable to the hypothesis that close binary stars originate in the fission of a single slowly contracting protostar. The main differences from the classical picture are (1) evolution proceeds along certain families of Riemann ellipsoids, rather than along the Jacobi family and (2) the critical ellipsoid on the evolutionary trajectory suffers a deformation given by an ellipsoidal harmonic of order four, rather than of order three.
Distraction shrinks space

Research investigating how people remember the distance of paths they walk has shown two apparently conflicting effects of experience during encoding on subsequent distance judgments. By the feature accumulation effect, discrete path features such as turns, houses, or other landmarks cause an increase in remembered distance. By the distractor effect, performance of a concurrent task during path encoding causes a decrease in remembered distance. In this study, we ask the following: What are the conditions that determine whether the feature accumulation or the distractor effect dominates distortions of space? In two experiments, blindfolded participants were guided along two legs of a right triangle while reciting nonsense syllables. On some trials, one of the two legs contained features: horizontally mounted car antennas (gates) that bent out of the way as participants walked past. At the end of the second leg, participants either indicated the remembered path leg lengths using their hands in a ratio estimation task or attempted to walk, unguided, straight back to the beginning. In addition to response mode, visual access to the paths and time between encoding and response were manipulated to determine whether these factors would affect feature accumulation or distractor effects. Path legs with added features were remembered as shorter than those without, but this result was significant only in the haptic response mode data. This finding suggests that when people form spatial memory representations with the intention of navigating in room-scale spaces, interfering with information accumulation substantially distorts spatial memory.
Manipulation of texture by low-energy ion beams: Example ion assisted deposition of titanium nitride

Abstract The effects of the incident angle and ion current density on the texture of polycrystalline TiN films grown by low-energy nitrogen ion beam assisted deposition have been investigated. The titanium layers were deposited on silicon in high vacuum under 2 keV nitrogen ion bombardment at room temperature under selected incident angles of the assisting ion beam of 0°, 45° and 54.7°. In dependence on the ion current density the [001} fibre texture and the biaxial {111}, {001} and {011} textures were detected for the bombardment under the different incident angles. The preferred crystalline orientations are discussed on the base of the dominate influence of the ion beam and the deposited energy per atom on the orientation of the growing film.
No evidence of BRCA2 mutations in chromosome 13q-linked Utah high-risk prostate cancer pedigrees

Germline mutations in the BRCA2 gene have been suggested to account for about 5% of familial prostate cancer; mutations have been reported in 2% of early onset (i.e., ≤ 55 years) prostate cancer cases and a segregating founder mutation has been identified in Iceland (999del5). However, the role of BRCA2 in high risk prostate cancer pedigrees remains unclear. We examined the potential involvement of BRCA2 in a set offive high-risk prostate cancer pedigrees in which all prostate cases were no more distantly related than two meioses from another case, and the resulting cluster contained at least four prostate cancer cases. We selected these five pedigrees from a larger dataset of 59 high-risk prostate cancer pedigrees analyzed in a genome-wide linkage screen. Selected pedigrees showed at least nominal linkage evidence to the BRCA2 region on chromosome 13q. We mutation screened all coding regions and intron/exon boundaries of the BRCA2 gene in the youngest prostate cancer case who carried the linked 13q segregating haplotype, as well as in a distantly related haplotype carrier to confirm any segregation. We observed no known protein truncating BRCA2 deleterious mutations. We identified one non-segregating BRCA2 variant of uncertain significance, one non-segregating intronic variant not previously reported, and a number of polymorphisms. In this set of high-risk prostate cancer pedigrees with at least nominal linkage evidence to BRCA2, we saw no evidence for segregating BRCA2 protein truncating mutations in heritable prostate cancer.
What Makes Performance Feedback Seem Just? Synchronicity, Channel, and Valence Effects on Perceptions of Organizational Justice in Feedback Delivery:

Because organizations may increasingly utilize a variety of different methods to communicate with employees both on- and off-site, performance feedback may not continue to be bound to traditional face-to-face interaction. Knowing how channel and synchronicity may affect perceptions of feedback may be very useful to organizations and supervisors as the use of alternative work arrangements increases. This study was conducted to learn more about the delivery of performance feedback to employees and what would cause them to feel justly versus unjustly treated by their supervisors. Synchronicity, channel, and valence effects on perceptions of justice in feedback delivery were examined through a fully crossed 2 × 2 × 2 design of 447 participants. Findings suggest that positive feedback and delivery via phone call rather than text message were associated with higher perceptions of organizational justice. Practical implications for organizations are also addressed.
Abstract PR5: Identifying mechanisms of drug resistance to MAPK pathway inhibition via genome-scale rescue screens

The recent clinical success of RAF inhibitors in BRAF(V600E)-mutant malignant melanoma highlights the promise of targeted therapeutics as well as the inevitability of acquired drug resistance: responses are sustained for less than a year and all patients ultimately become drug resistant. To identify causative drug resistance genes in BRAF(V600E)-mutant melanoma, we have individually expressed over 14, 000 unique genes and queried their ability to affect sensitivity to a panel of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitors, including a RAF, MEK and ERK inhibitor, both as single agents or in combination (RAFi+MEKi). Out of this genome-scale collection, less than 1% of genes are sufficient to induce resistance to the MAPK pathway inhibitors tested. Here, we present the results of this rescue screen and extensive validation/characterization efforts that reveal a number of novel insights into mechanisms of drug resistance, melanoma biology and the MAPK signaling pathway. Additionally, the scale of this first-of-kind functional rescue screen permits its integration with existing genome characterization efforts, including melanoma sequencing studies, gene expression data and parallel functional assays to identify the most relevant genetic modifiers of resistance to MAPK pathway inhibition. This proffered talk is also presented as Poster B27 .
A Large Area, Tiled, Gyricon Display

We have demonstrated a large area, low power, thin (1.25 inches thick) Gyricon display using a tiled substrate. The tiles are 12 inch by 12 inch printed circuit boards. One tile carries an embedded processor to provide timing, control and image storage. Images are loaded over a high speed serial port.
Depolarization-induced suppression of GABAergic inhibition in rat hippocampal pyramidal cells: G protein involvement in a presynaptic mechanism

Summary Following postsynaptic activation of a pyramidal cell, the degree of GABAergic synaptic inhibition that the cell receives is reduced dramatically for many seconds. Previously, we found that induction of depolarizationinduced suppression of inhibition (DSI) required postsynaptic increases in intracellular [Ca 2+ ], but absence of a decrease in responsiveness to iontophoretically applied GABA left the mechanism of DSI expression uncertain. We investigated DSI with whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings in rat hippocampal slices. Bath-applied carbachol was ordinarily used to increase the spontaneous action potential-induced IPSCs (slPSCs) and enhance detectability of DSI; synaptically released ACh has the same effects. TTX-sensitive slPSCs are markedly reduced by DSI, whereas TTX-insensitive miniature IPSC amplitudes do not change, suggesting that DSI represents a retrograde influence on presynaptic GABA release. A lag (∼ 1 s) prior to maximal DSI and prevention of DSI by pertussis toxin pointed to a G protein-linked second messenger that may be presynaptic, since perturbation of postsynaptic G protein function did not alter DSI.
A memristive circuit model for p‐n junction diodes

A new simple lumped circuit model for junction diodes is presented. The model contains only 4 elements; namely, 2 controlled current sources, a nonlinear capacitor, and a memristor. Each component bears a simple relationship with the physical operating mechanisms inside the diode. The model is shown capable of simulating realistically the diode's dynamic behaviours under reverse, forward, and sinusoidal operating modes. Both the storage time and the fall time of the diode can be accurately predicted. The model is also shown capable of mimicking various second order effects due to conductivity modulation. In particular, the model is shown to exhibit a predominantly capacitive incremental impedance under small forward bias and a predominantly inductive impedance under large forward bias. Moreover, it includes the standard two-capacitor model as a special case.
Dual-catalyst aftertreatment of lean-burn natural gas engine exhaust

Abstract A dual-catalyst system for the reduction of NO with CH4 under lean conditions was investigated. The system is comprised of a mixed bed containing a Co/ZrO2 catalyst, active for the oxidation of NO to NO2, and a Pd/sulfated zirconia (SZ) catalyst that is active for the reduction of NO2 with CH4. Such a system is capable of taking advantage of higher reduction rates for NO2, as compared to NO, that have been previously observed. When simulated exhaust streams from lean-burn natural gas engines are used as feed, the dual-catalyst system is simultaneously active for the reduction of NOx and the oxidation of unburned hydrocarbons and CO.
Complications in tunneled CVL versus PICC lines in very low birth weight infants.

OBJECTIVE:Comparison of complications associated with tunneled central venous lines (TCVLs) versus peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in infants <1500 g. STUDY DESIGN:A retrospective cohort study at a university medical center. A total of 96 catheters were placed in 60 infants between 4/94 and 3/99. A retrospective review of these infants' medical record was done to review associated complications of catheter placement. RESULTS:Both groups had similar weights and gestational ages. The duration of catheterization was 28 days in TCVLs and 11 days in PICCs (p<0.05). Total, infectious, and mechanical complications between the two groups were similar. Survival function estimates showed no difference between the two groups up to the 15th day of catheterization. CONCLUSION:There is no difference in efficacy or associated complications between the two groups. If one could anticipate needing a catheter longer than 15 days, then a TCVL might be the better choice.
Charged OFETS: Tuning of threshold voltage and off-current of organic transistors for adaptable circuits and amplifiers

Printing processes like gravure and off-set are being developed for flexible logic circuits. Different devices with consistent properties are needed in single circuits. This can be achieved by embedding preset, tuning charges in the Organic Field Effect Transistor (OFET) gate dielectric. If desired, contrasting characteristics can be obtained for different devices in the same way. This reduces the number of steps involved in the printing process and makes the process more energy efficient. In this article we show shifting of threshold voltage by charging with a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) electron source. Writing specific amounts of charge on the dielectric and a corresponding shift in threshold voltage is seen. The sample preparation will be discussed in detail elsewhere.
The Stability of Perceived Pubertal Timing Across Adolescence

It is unknown whether perceived pubertal timing changes as puberty progresses or whether it is an important component of adolescent identity formation that is fixed early in pubertal development. The purpose of this study is to examine the stability of perceived pubertal timing among a school-based sample of rural adolescents aged 11-17 (N=6,425; 50% female; 53% White). Two measures of pubertal timing were used, stage-normative, based on the Pubertal Development Scale, a self-report scale of secondary sexual characteristics, and peer-normative, a one-item measure of perceived pubertal timing. Two longitudinal methods were used: one-way random effects ANOVA models and latent class analysis. When calculating intraclass correlation coefficients using the one-way random effects ANOVA models, which is based on the average reliability from one time point to the next, both measures had similar, but poor, stability. In contrast, latent class analysis, which looks at the longitudinal response pattern of each individual and treats deviation from that pattern as measurement error, showed three stable and distinct response patterns for both measures: always early, always on-time, and always late. Study results suggest instability in perceived pubertal timing from one age to the next, but this instability is likely due to measurement error. Thus, it may be necessary to take into account the longitudinal pattern of perceived pubertal timing across adolescence rather than measuring perceived pubertal timing at one point in time.
Effects of scheduling perceptions on attitudes and mobility in different part-time employee types

Abstract Recent research supports the existence of a typology of part-time employees with demographic and behavioral differences. This research suggests that part-timers should not be viewed as one homogenous group and that certain part-time employee groups have fixed external role attachments, while others have more flexible attachments. Applying the part-time typology and the classification of fixed versus flexible attachments from previous research, the current study examines differences in the relationships among scheduling perceptions, job attitudes, and employment mobility for part-timers. Consistent with Partial Inclusion Theory, we found that part-time workers classified as having more fixed outside role attachments have lower organizational commitment, job satisfaction, employment mobility, work status congruence, scheduling control, and scheduling satisfaction than those classified as having more flexible outside role attachments. Additionally, the flexibility of external role attachments moderates the relationship between scheduling variables and job attitudes and employment mobility. Implications for management and research are discussed.
PS1-14: Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Findings from the Mental Health Research Network Autism Registry Web Survey

Background/Aims Approximately 1 in 88 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a complex disorder characterized by impairment in social skills, communication, and cognitive and behavioral functioning. In order for policy makers and clinical managers to evaluate new approaches to treating and managing ASD, they need brief comprehensive outcome measures. One approach that could be useful in this context is measurement of health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), which provides a comprehensive picture of health status including an individual’s psychosocial, emotional, and physical wellbeing. This comprehensive approach is particularly important in conditions such as ASD that have multiple impacts on a person’s health. Few previous studies have examined HR-QOL in persons with ASD, and most of these studies have used small samples. The purpose of this analysis is to examine HR-QOL in a group of geographically- and racially/ethnically-diverse children with ASD who are enrolled in the Mental Health Research Network (MHRN) Autism Registry.
Distribution and status of manatees Trichechus spp. Near the mouth of the amazon river, Brazil☆

Abstract Interviews with hunters and collection of skulls indicate that Trichechus inunguis occurs throughout the region of the Amazon River estuaries from Amapa to the mainland of Para, including Ilha de Marajo and islands on its Atlantic coast. T. manatus has a disjunct distribution in Brazil, apparently occurring both on the coast of Amapa north of Cabo Norte and in the Rio Mearim (Maranhao) as well as further to the southwest; it seems to have been exterminated from the Atlantic coast of Para and is absent from the Marajo region. Continued subsistence hunting can best be controlled by destruction of illegal camboas (fence-like traps) which catch manatees at high tide. Areas deserving study are the coast and inland lakes of eastern Amapa, the only place in the world where two sirenian species might still be found in sympatry or immediate proximity, and the lower Rio Mearim in Maranhao, which may still contain a sizable population of T. manatus. Ecological studies in these areas should have particular relevance to hypotheses of sirenian evolutionary interactions, and manatee reserves should be established in both areas.
LET versus EMLA for Pretreating Lacerations: A Randomized Trial

Abstract. Objective: To compare the anesthetic efficacy of EMLA cream (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics) with that of LET solution (lidocaine, epinephrine, tetracaine) for pretreating lacerations prior to lidocaine injection. Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial in a convenience sample of 60 patients aged 1 to 59 years with traumatic lacerations. Eligible wounds were uncomplicated, clean lacerations ≤ 6 hours old. Finger and toe lacerations were excluded. At the time of initial presentation to triage, patients were randomized to LET or EMLA. A nurse applied the topical anesthetic into the laceration with a 5-mL syringe. A physician assessed the laceration edges for the presence of blanching and adequacy of anesthesia to a 27-gauge needlestick. Supplemental lidocaine was then infiltrated through the wound edges and the pain of infiltration was recorded by the patient (or guardian) on a 100-mm visual analog scale marked “most pain” at the high end. A sample of 44 patients had 90% power to detect a 20-mm difference in injection pain (two-tailed α= 0.05). Results: Sixty patients were randomized to LET (29) or EMLA (31). Median age was 8.5 years; 23% were female. Most lacerations were facial and closed with sutures. There was no difference in baseline characteristics between groups. More wounds treated with LET were anesthetic to a needlestick than wounds treated with EMLA (73% vs 40%, p = 0.01); however, there was no between-group difference in the median pain of lidocaine infiltration (LET—12 mm vs EMLA—13 mm, p = 0.89). Conclusions: Pretreatment of simple lacerations with LET or EMLA at the time of patient presentation results in similar amounts of pain of subsequent local infiltration of lidocaine
Similar luminescent behavior in an established rhenacarborane complex, [3,3-(CO)2-3-NO-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H11] and a new complex anion, [3,3,3-(CO)3-8-I-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H10]-

Abstract The compounds [3,3-(CO)2-3-NO-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H11] and [NEt4][3,3,3-(CO)3-8-I-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H10] have been shown to be emissive in MeTHF at 77 K, with λmax in the blue region of the visible spectrum. Emission from [3,3,3-(CO)3-8-I-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H10]–, which has been structurally characterized, is phosphorescent with a single exponential decay lifetime, τ=1.65 ms. The complex [3,3-(CO)2-3-NO-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H11] also emits in the solid state at 298 K and has been shown by diffuse-reflectance UV–vis measurement to have a band gap of 2.66 eV.
The eigenfilter for the design of linear-phase filters with arbitrary magnitude response

The author studies the design of linear-phase FIR (finite impulse response) digital filters to approximate linear-phase functions with arbitrary magnitude response. The design method is based on the computation of an eigenvector of an appropriate real, symmetric, and positive-definite matrix. The design of complex-coefficient linear-phase filters is shown to be an extension of the design of the real-coefficient filter. Several examples are presented which demonstrate the usefulness of the approach. >
Achieving Performance Isolation on Multi-Tenant Networked Clouds Using Advanced Block Storage Mechanisms

Multi-tenant cloud infrastructures are increasingly used for high-performance and high-throughput domain science applications. Various cloud platforms, such as OpenStack and Amazon EC2, along with research efforts, such as NSF GENI and FutureGrid have attracted scientists to these platforms with the promise of virtually infinite compute resources.This paper presents work toward providing better resource allocation accounting in multi-tenant cloud environments by understanding the subtle interference between network, compute, and storage resources. The experiments provide insight that help cloud administrators know how to best distribute virtual cores to physical cores considering the effect of advanced virtual network technologies on remote block I/O performance.The results show that SR-IOV network interfaces to an SSD iSCSI device can provide extremely fast block I/O with minimal CPU overhead and minimal performance interference between tenants. In addition, careful mapping of virtual computation to physical computational cores is critical to increasing performance isolation.
The spreading of a proton beam by the atmosphere

A simplified approximate expression is analytically derived for the spreading by charge exchange of a fine proton beam precipitating into the atmosphere. It shows in a simple way the dependence of proton beam spreading on atmospheric structure, collision data, primary particle energy, and pitch angle.
Fatty replacement of lymph nodes mimicking lymphoma relapse

A 70-year-old man was treated successfully for diffuse histiocytic lymphoma involving the left ilium and bone marrow. He received radiation therapy to the left hip for stabilization, then eight cycles of intense (COP-BLAM) chemotherapy. Restaging at the completion of therapy demonstrated a normal physical examination, laboratory values, bone scan, bone survey, and abdominal computerized tomographic scan. One month after restaging he developed rapidly enlarging lymphadenopathy. Biopsy of an axillary node showed complete fatty replacement without lymphoma, and the patient remains in remission 16 months later. Recent reports of residual masses after lymphoma therapy have demonstrated fibrous replacement, necrotic tissue, thymic hyperplasia, and vascular anomalies mimicking lymphadenopathy. Lymph node enlargement may be due to nonmalignant causes, including fatty replacement, and not due to recurrent lymphoma.
Preoperative Terminal Ileal and Colonic Resection Histopathology Predicts Risk of Pouchitis in Patients After Ileoanal Pull-Through Procedure

Objective This study seeks to compare the histopathology of preoperative terminal ileal and colonic resection specimens with pouch biopsies after the ileoanal pull-through (IAPT) procedure. Background Data Pouchitis is the most frequent complication of transanal continent reservoirs in patients after IAPT. Methods The authors conducted 751 consecutive pouch biopsies on 73 patients with inflammatory bowel disease or familial adenomatous polyposis who underwent IAPT by a single surgeon over a 10-year period. In this preliminary report, a pathologist, in blinded fashion, has graded 468 of the IAPT pouch biopsies and 67 of the patients' preoperative terminal ileal and colonic resection histopathology to date. Colonic histopathology was graded by the extent and severity of disease, terminal ileal and pouch histopathology by active inflammation, chronic inflammation, lymphocyte aggregates, intraepithelial lymphocytes, eosinophils, and villous blunting. Results Extent of colonic disease (gross and microscopic) was a significant predictor of active inflammation in subsequent IAPT pouch biopsy specimens. Also, the gross extent of colonic disease exhibited a significant linear association with pouch inflammation. However, the severity of colonic disease was not significantly predictive of active inflammation in subsequent IAPT pouch biopsies. Terminal ileal active and chronic inflammation were significant predictors of subsequent IAPT pouch inflammation. Although lymphocyte aggregates and intraepithelial lymphocytes were not predictive, terminal ileum eosinophils and villous blunting were significant predictors of active inflammation in subsequent IAPT pouch biopsy specimens. Conclusions Preoperative terminal ileal and colonic histopathology predicts active inflammation of pouches after IAPT. Patients who are preoperatively assessed to have extensive disease of the colon, ileal disease (backwash ileitis), or both appear to be at greater risk for the development of pouchitis after IAPT.
Fluorescence lifetime-based sensing of zinc in solution

Recently, we have described a fiber optic biosensor specific for zinc that transduces the presence of the metal as a shift in the emission of a fluorescent sulfonamide inhibitor that binds to a metalloenzyme, human erythrocyte carbonic anhydrase, if and only if the metal is present. Due to fiber photoluminescence and calibration issues, we decided to determine if comparable results could be obtained by sensing based on fluorescence lifetime changes, as recently described by Demas, Wolfbeis, Lakowicz, and others. Results of these experiments are included, as well as a discussion of the dynamic range of the method.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Trees for carbon sequestration or fossil fuel substitution: the issue of cost vs. carbon benefit

Abstract This study compares the costs and quantity of carbon mitigation by afforestation and fossil fuel substitution based on simple mathematical models of carbon stocks and flows assuming the growth conditions of trees in the southern US. Significant carbon benefit can be obtained by substituting biomass derived from short-rotation woody crops (SRWC) for coal or gasoline as opposed to sequestering carbon in standing trees. When biomass substitutes fossil fuel, the use of a given piece of land is not limited to just the period until the forest matures, as in the case of afforestation. At present high costs of existing biomass-based technologies and unavailability of cost-effective technologies (e.g., biomass-integrated gasifier/steam-injected gas turbine (BIG/STIG)) limits carbon sequestration to afforestation/reforestation for which the costs have been found to be modest. If growth rates of trees in afforested/reforested lands could be increased to the levels that are comparable to SRWC, more carbon benefit could be realized for a short-term horizon from afforestation than using biomass to displace fossil fuels. Carbon sequestered through afforestation projects can be used to earn carbon credits to meet carbon reduction targets through Kyoto mechanisms. As biomass-based technologies such as BIG/STIG or conversion of biomass to ethanol become commercially viable in the future, growing SRWC for substituting fossil fuels may become a cost-effective strategy to combat climate change.
A program generator for the incomplete cholesky conjugate gradient (ICCG) method with a symmetrizing preprocessor

Abstract This paper is an extension of our previous paper “A program generator for the Incomplete LU-decomposition-Conjugate Gradient (ILUCG) method” which appeared in Computer Physics Communications. In that paper we presented a generator program which produced a code package to solve the system of equations Ax = bb, where A is an arbitrary nonsingular matrix, by the ILUCG method. In the present paper we offer an alternative generator program which produces a code package applicable to the case where A is symmetric and positive definite. The numerical algorithm used is the Incomplete Cholesky Conjugate Gradient (ICCG) method of Meijerink and Van der Vorst which executes approximately twice as fast per iteration as the ILUCG method. In addition, we provide an optional preprocessor to treat the case of a not diagonally dominant nonsymmetric and nonsingular matrix A by solving the equation ATAx = ATb.
Bowling Ninepins in Tocqueville's Township

Despite elevating Alexis de Tocqueville to iconic status in our national debate on civic engagement, we have frequently neglected the range and depth of his associational thought. In this essay, I trace the early manifestations and evolution from 1828 to 1840 of his understanding of the commune or township, a featured source of public participation and cohesion within his larger associational lexicon. I show how his reflections on local liberties, in general, and the New England township, in particular, inspired and helped to shape both volumes of his Democracy in America. I emphasize the degree to which Tocqueville saw the participatory vector originating in the township's political life as galvanizing an ardent civic spirit leading to cultural, intellectual, and economic achievements. I conclude by seeking to connect lessons gleaned from Tocqueville's township to contemporary strategies to strengthen citizen participation.For their early encouragement and advice, I thank Clark Gilpin and David Tracy, leaders of the Brauer Seminar at the University of Chicago Divinity School where I presented an initial version of this essay in spring 1994. I am grateful to the late Francois Furet, who also commented upon that early paper, and Ralph Lerner, who read and notated each of its successive formulations, for their generous and sage oversight of my ensuing Tocquevillian studies. I also thank three anonymous reviewers and the editor of this journal for their comments and constructive criticisms.
A Survey of Ballistic Transfers to the Lunar Surface

In this study techniques are developed which allow an analysis of a range of different types of transfer trajectories from the Earth to the lunar surface. Trajectories ranging from those obtained using the invariant manifolds of unstable orbits to those derived from collision orbits are analyzed. These techniques allow the computation of trajectories encompassing low-energy trajectories as well as more direct transfers. The range of possible trajectory options is summarized, and a broad range of trajectories that exist as a result of the Sun's influence are computed and analyzed. The results are then classified by type, and trades between different measures of cost are discussed.
New aliphatic boronate ligands for affinity chromatography

Abstract Aliphatic boronates have not been used as ligands in boronate affinity chromatography, possibly because of their low stability. To fill this void, we have prepared three different boronate esters: 1-chloro-5-(3-dimethylaminophenoxy)pentane-1-boronate, 1-thiourea-5-(3-dimethylaminophenoxy)pentane-1-boronate and 1-acetamido-5-(3-dimethylaminophenoxy)pentane-1-boronate, the latter two of which have a hetero atom coordinated with the boron, creating a tetrahedral boronate. These were coupled to the hydroxylic matrix and their ability to interact with various catechols was tested. Chloroboronate gel bound a number of catechol derivatives, except dl -DOPA, quantitatively, but was rather unstable. Thiourea-boronate gel, on the other hand, was relatively stable, although chromatography using it failed. Acetamido-boronate gel did not bind catechol derivatives quantitatively, but did retard them differentially, a property which could be used for their separation. Acetamido-boronate gel was also more stable than chloro-boronate gel, although it was not stable enough for unlimited application.
Decision support system for integrating remote sensing in bridge condition assessment and preservation

Since the National Bridge Inventory (NBI) was first conducted, structural health monitoring (SHM) of U.S. bridge infrastructure has consisted largely of time and labor-intensive surveys with subjective results. In-situ and embedded sensors, while more reliable and accurate, can be costly and in many cases infeasible for SHM because they require installation in hard-to-reach places or during construction. Remote sensing (RS) technologies such as radar, electrooptical imaging and laser scanning may offer an innovative, cost-effective method of monitoring the dynamic conditions of U.S. bridges in real-time. While some RS techniques may be costly for state agencies to deploy on their own, RS imagery is available through government agencies or commercial vendors for moderate or no cost. How can disparate RS datasets be integrated with one another and with inventory data in a way that is meaningful to bridge asset management decision makers? This paper discusses the development and functionality of the Bridge Condition Decision Support System (DSS), a web-based asset management tool for bridge managers and inspectors. The DSS seamlessly merges bridge metrics from RS data with NBI inventory data allowing decision makers to compare up-to-date bridge condition metrics from multiple inputs as a time series. It enables analysis of RS and inventory data available through user-friendly web services which can also expose virtually unlimited server-side data processing. Using open-source software, the authors developed a scalable, spatially-aware bridge condition database with a fast and flexible server application programming interface (API) and a cross-browser compatible web mapping application written in Javascript.