cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Giant left atrial appendage aneurysm: A case of mistaken identity

Left atrial appendage (LAA) aneurysm is a rare condition that can be congenital or acquired. Most cases are discovered incidentally. However, the most frequent clinical presentations include supraventricular tachycardias and systemic embolization. Most cases in the literature were treated by resection of the LAA, and it has been recommended to perform LAA resection even in asymptomatic patients in order to prevent thromboembolic events. Here, we describe the safe, conservative management of a patient who was initially felt to have congenital partial absence of the left pericardium but at surgery the diagnosis of LAA aneurysm was established.
Association of nurse work environment and safety climate on patient mortality: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract Background There are two largely distinct research literatures on the association of the nurse work environment and the safety climate on patient outcomes. Objective To determine whether hospital safety climate and work environment make comparable or distinct contributions to patient mortality. Design Cross-sectional secondary analysis of linked datasets of Registered Nurse survey responses, adult acute care discharge records, and hospital characteristics. Setting Acute care hospitals in California, Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Participants The sample included 600 hospitals linked to 27,009 nurse survey respondents and 852,974 surgical patients. Methods Nurse survey data included assessments of the nurse work environment and hospital safety climate. The outcome of interest was in-hospital mortality. Data analyses included descriptive statistics and multivariate random intercept logistic regression. Results In a fully adjusted model, a one standard deviation increase in work environment score was associated with an 8.1% decrease in the odds of mortality (OR 0.919, p Conclusions We found that safety climate perception is not predictive of patient mortality beyond the effect of the nurse work environment. To advance hospital safety and quality and improve patient outcomes, organizational interventions should be directed toward improving nurse work environments.
A Checkpointing Model for Fault-Tolerant Real-Time Systems

Abstract A Fault-Tolerant Real-Time System must provide critical level of service in a timely manner in the presence of one or more hardware or software faults. This paper argues that support from the language, environment, and compiler is required. An integrated approach to providing this support through a novel data classification is proposed. This can in principle provide provide static guarantees of timeliness in a checkpointing real-time system, and for recovery and continued computation for up to one node or link failure.
The position of time estimation in a factor analysis and its relation to some personality variables

Two types of time estimation were included in a factor analysis of 40 different variables. The two estimates were found to have loadings on 4 of the 16 factors extracted. No “time sense” or “general time and speed” factor was found. Both estimates loaded on the intelligence factor and verbal estimate of working time loaded on a mania-depression factor and two additional factors. Stress and anxiety were not significantly related to the time estimates.
A "vaccine" against violence: coping power.

1. Kristi Cowell, MD 2. Sara Horstmann, MD 3. Jennifer Linebarger, MD 4. Philip Meaker, MD 1. Pediatric Residency Program at the University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 1. C. Andrew Aligne, MD, MPH, Section Editor, Co-Director 1. Pediatric Links to the Community Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY On a per capita basis, Rochester, New York, has a high homicide rate. The front page of the local newspaper has a new murder story on it almost weekly, and many of the victims and perpetrators are teens. Drs Cowell, Horstmann, Linebarger, and Meaker, while participating in the Child Advocacy Resident Education (CARE) track at the University of Rochester, decided to try to prevent violence in the community instead of just dealing with its consequences in the hospital. Their literature review revealed that the peak time children get into trouble is 3 pm to 6 pm and that the strongest predictor of teen violence is earlier aggressive behavior. (1)(2) Therefore, they decided to implement an after-school program focusing on aggressive fourth- and fifth-graders. When searching for evidence-based interventions, they …
Accommodating the disabled in library one-shots at York College/CUNY

The library is an academic department at York College of the City University of New York and offers one-shot classes in information literacy at the for all other academic departments at the college. Since these library classes are taught by library faculty rather than by the subject professors, it is quite possible that they would not be aware of, and therefore not accommodate, the disabled students who attend these specific information literacy classes. This article recommends best practices for teaching librarians who may need to make accommodations for the disabled while teaching these library classes, currently used at York’s library. The policy background that caused the library to do this is not only based in law but, as discussed here, it is also based in professional library policies put forward by the American Library Association. This article also reviews the history of services for the disabled in libraries.
The estimated impact of California’s urban water conservation mandate on electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions

In April 2015, the Governor of California mandated a 25% statewide reduction in water consumption (relative to 2013 levels) by urban water suppliers. The more than 400 public water agencies affected by the regulation were also required to report monthly progress towards the conservation goal to the State Water Resources Control Board. This paper uses the reported data to assess how the water utilities have responded to this mandate and to estimate the electricity savings and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions associated with reduced operation of urban water infrastructure systems. The results show that California succeeded in saving 524 000 million gallons (MG) of water (a 24.5% decrease relative to the 2013 baseline) over the mandate period, which translates into 1830 GWh total electricity savings, and a GHG emissions reduction of 521 000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (MT CO2e). For comparison, the total electricity savings linked to water conservation are approximately 11% greater than the savings achieved by the investor-owned electricity utilities' efficiency programs for roughly the same time period, and the GHG savings represent the equivalent of taking about 111 000 cars off the road for a year. These indirect, large-scale electricity and GHG savings were achieved at costs that were competitive with existing programs that target electricity and GHG savings directly and independently. Finally, given the breadth of the results produced, we built a companion website, called 'H2Open' (https://cwee.shinyapps.io/greengov/), to this research effort that allows users to view and explore the data and results across scales, from individual water utilities to the statewide summary.
A continuous-flow external ventricular assist device for cardiogenic shock: Evolution over 10 years.

Abstract Background The use of percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in the treatment of cardiogenic shock has increased. However, limitations in flow capability, ventricular unloading effect, durability, and mobility remain. We reviewed our single-center experience with continuous-flow external ventricular assist devices (VADs) to determine the role of temporary VADs for cardiogenic shock in the contemporary MCS era. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 252 patients who underwent continuous-flow external VAD insertion between January 2007 and December 2016. To investigate the change in indications, device configurations, and outcomes, we divided the cohort into 2 groups—2007 to 2011 (Era 1; n = 127) and 2012 to 2016 (Era 2; n = 125)—and compared early and late outcomes. Results Indications and device configurations changed significantly over time. The use of preoperative percutaneous MCS (53% vs 23%; P P P = .04). Overall survival at 1 year was 57% in Era 2 versus 43% in Era 1 ( P = .04). Conclusions Better outcomes in the recent era could be associated with the changes in practice patterns using continuous-flow external VAD in patients with refractory cardiogenic shock.
Biopower: Discipline, Symbolic Violence, and the Privilege of Hygiene

Foucault’s concept of biopower or “power over life” explains how Fayette’s management benefited from techniques of power that reinforced economic and gendered hierarchies. The politics of health paralleled the town’s economic hierarchy, as Fayette’s poorest workers were disproportionately affected by company policies regarding sanitation and health care. The upper classes invested extensively in medical paraphernalia and medicinal remedies, while the middle and working classes purchased substantially fewer of those items. The working-class neighborhood was adjacent to an industrial waste dump, which encroached upon residents’ houses. Legislative documentation, disciplinary institutions, surveillance, and symbolic violence created disciplined subjects of the company, although individuals had the freedom to improvise in their daily practices.
Chemical substitution in silica polymorph

Ion and electron probe analyses are presented for trace elements (Al, Na, K, Li, Ti) in quartz, tridymite, cristobalite and melanophlogite. Quartz and melanophlogite show low levels of trace elements relative to tridymite and cristobalite. The previously determined alpha-beta inversion temperature decreases as the Al content of quartz increases. For all silica polymorphs, Al is greater than or equal to Na + K + Li on an atom basis, with the excess Al probably balanced by H.
Enantioselective Synthesis of des-Epoxy-Amphidinolide N.

The synthesis of des-epoxy-amphidinolide N was achieved in 22 longest linear and 33 total steps. Three generations of synthetic endeavors are reported herein. During the first generation, our key stitching strategy that highlighted an intramolecular Ru-catalyzed alkene-alkyne (Ru AA) coupling and a late-stage epoxidation proved successful, but the installation of the α,α′-dihydroxyl ketone motif employing a dihydroxylation method was problematic. Our second generation of synthetic efforts addressed the scalability problem of the southern fragment synthesis and significantly improved the efficiency of the atom-economical Ru AA coupling, but suffered from several protecting group-based issues that proved insurmountable. Finally, relying on a judicious protecting group strategy together with concise fragment preparation, des-epoxy-amphidinolide N was achieved in a convergent fashion. Calculations disclose a hydrogen-bonding bridge within amphidinolide N. Comparisons of 13C NMR chemical shift differences usin...
Physiologic and Behavioral Pain Assessment Measures in Infants

There is significant evidence that shows that untreated pain in the neonatal and infant population can lead to worsening outcomes later in life. Thus, it is prudent to properly treat neonatal pain. However, in order to properly treat one’s pain, one must use a proper pain measurement tool to assess the child.
Dependence of Dislocation Energy on Interatomic Distance

Dislocations span over distances that are much larger than the interatomic distance b. Therefore, an asymptotic expansion of dislocation energy E as b→0 is of interest. In this paper, such asymptot...
Fruit drop in two kiwifruit varieties and the use of two Bacillus-based biofungicides

Recently, fruit drop in two green varieties of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa; VarA and VarB) has increased towards the harvest date. The efficacy of two biofungicides, applied post-flowering, to ameliorate the effects of early fruit drop in VarA and VarB during the 2017–18 growing season was tested. Treatments were applied to a single bay, with buffer bays and rows adjacent. Treatments were two different Bacillus-based biofungicide products; Serenade® Max (a.i. B. subtilis QST713 strain) and Triple-X® (a.i. B. amyloliquefaciens BS 1b). There was an untreated control. All fruits in the canopy, within the treated bay, were counted and recorded at 4-weekly intervals, over 5 months until harvest. At the VarA site, there was no statistical difference (P>0.1) in the percentage of fruit drop between the control (7%), Triple-X® (5%) and Serenade® Max (10%) treated vines. At the VarB site, fruit drop differed statistically (P<0.1) between Triple-X® treated vines (5%) and the control (10.5%), with Serenade® Max treated vines (6.5%) having intermediate fruit drop. The use of Triple-X® may be an option to assist with reducing fruit drop in kiwifruit.
Editorial: Increasing Access to Mental Health Care for Latinx Children: Moving in the Right Direction

The study reported by Brent et al.1 in this issue of JAACAP is an encouraging approach to potentially reducing mental health disparities. The response of Latinx youth to treatment for depression and anxiety in Brent and colleagues' studies is promising and can help explain why previous studies of Hispanic youth found lower rates of receiving depression care. Brent and colleagues' results of brief behavioral therapy (BBT) at 32 weeks are mostly in line with results of their original study2: BBT was superior to assisted referral to care (ARC) regarding treatment response and functioning. Like the original study, at week 32, ethnicity continued to moderate the effect of BBT on anxiety (but not depression), due to a lower response rate of Hispanics to assisted referrals to care than their non-Hispanic white counterparts. Findings demonstrated that Hispanics had a stronger response to BBT than assisted referral to outpatient care in comparison to non-Hispanic whites; however, at 32 weeks, ethnicity did not moderate BBT impact on functioning, suggesting that the treatment worked the same for non-Hispanic whites as for Hispanics. Such findings suggest that availability of services, identification of need, and easy navigation to mental health services might be some of the reasons for the persistent mental health access disparities among youth of color.
Low Frequency Responses of Condensed Matter

The lectures I shall give here will be based on recent works that I have been involved in during the last three years. These works have been the source of a number of articles in the literature. All of these are concerned with low frequency fluctuation, relaxation and dissipation phenomena of condensed matter. They include a collection of perhaps the oldest problems in condensed matter physics that have eluded satisfactory solutions. What I have done as the title suggests is to give a fundamental theoretical model based on new concepts that can successfully account for a host of these low frequency fluctuation, relaxation and dissipation phenomena. In this way, I have given them a unified physical description. Furthermore, I have made a rather comprehensive survey of experimental data, and extensive comparisons with the predictions of my universal theory. The function of this universal theory is not only to provide a unified physical basis for the low frequency properties but also to resolve the impasse in the interpretations of experimental data of several active research areas in solid-state physics today.
The dance of the dispossessed: on patriarchy, feminism and the practice of leisure science.

This article questions the wisdom of the patriarchal worldview underlying the practice of much contemporary social science. First, the assumptions informing such a worldview are challenged; the sep...
Rotation-sensitive quench and revival of coherent oscillations in a ring lattice

We consider ultracold atoms trapped in a toroidal trap with an azimuthal lattice for utility as a macroscopic simulator of quantum optics phenomena. We examine the dynamics induced by the adiabatic introduction of the lattice that serves to couple the normal modes as an analog of a laser field coupling electronic states. The system is found to display two distinct behaviors, manifest in the angular momentum---coherent oscillation and self-trapping---reminiscent of nonlinear dynamics yet not requiring interatomic interactions. The choice is set by the interplay of discrete parameters, the specific initial mode, and the periodicity of the lattice. However, rotation can cause continuous transition between the two regimes, causing periodic quenches and revivals in the oscillations as a function of the angular velocity. Curiously, the impact of rotation is determined entirely by the energy spectrum in the absence of the lattice, a feature that can be attributed to adiabaticity. We assess the effects of varying the lattice parameters and consider applications in rotation sensing.
Quantifying Sub-gridding Errors in Standard and Hybrid Higher Order 2D FDTD Simulations

Sub-gridding errors for a 2D Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) simulation are compared for both the standard FDTD and Hybrid higher order FDTD cases. Sub-gridding contrast ratios of 1:3, 1:9, 1:15, and 1:27 are considered and analyzed. A correlation is seen between the increase of contrast ratio with the increase of sub-gridding errors for both standard and hybrid cases. However, a trend of errors reduction when using hybrid formulations over standard formulations. is apparent for each contrast ratio.
Rational supererogation and epistemic permissivism

A number of authors have defended permissivism by appealing to rational supererogation, the thought that some doxastic states might be rationally permissible even though there are other, more rational beliefs available. If this is correct, then there are situations that allow for multiple rational doxastic responses, even if some of those responses are rationally suboptimal. In this paper, I will argue that this is the wrong approach to defending permissivism—there are no doxastic states that are rationally supererogatory. By the lights of contemporary linguistics, ‘rational’ is an absolute gradable adjective, and as such, can only be applied to things that satisfy the top of the scale of rationality. For this reason, it is not possible to believe what is rational while also failing to believe what is rationally optimal.
Depression Remission and Response Rates and Anxiety Response as a Predictor of Depression Response in a Community ECT Clinic

Objective: To assess depression response and remission rates with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in a community clinic and to identify factors predicting success in treatment. Methods: We identified 35 patients by a retrospective chart review with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder or depressive disorder not otherwise specified (according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV-TR) who were treated with an acute series of ECT at the Pine Rest ECT Clinic from March, 2014 to March, 2015. Clinical variables, demographics, depression response rates (based on Patient Health Questionnaire-9; PHQ-9), and anxiety response rates (based on Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item) were analyzed. Results: Depression response (defined as ≥ 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score) and remission rates (defined as final PHQ-9 score < 5) were 54.3% and 31.4%, respectively. This was a highly treatment resistant sample, with an average of 5.3 antidepressant failures prior to initiating ECT. Logistic regression analysis found that depression response rates were predicted by an improvement in anxiety symptoms (odds ratio 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.11, 1.78). Additionally, patients with initial severe anxiety scores were less likely than other patients to exhibit a response in depression (p = .027). Conclusion: Almost half of this sample of patients with treatment resistant depression did not respond to ECT in this community-based clinic. Patients who experienced a response in anxiety symptoms were more likely to experience a depression response while those with severe anxiety were less likely to respond.
SU-E-I-29: Care KV: Dose It Influence Radiation Dose in Non-Contrast Examination of CT Abdomen/pelvis?

Purpose: CARE kV is a tool that automatically recommends optimal kV setting for individual patient for specific CT examination. The use of CARE kV depends on topogram and the user-selected contrast behavior. CARE kV is expected to reduce radiation dose while improving image quality. However, this may work only for certain groups of patients and/or certain CT examinations. This study is to investigate the effects of CARE kV on radiation dose of non-contrast examination of CT abdomen/pelvis. Methods: Radiation dose (CTDIvol and DLP) from patients who underwent abdomen/pelvis non-contrast examination with and without CARE kV were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were scanned in the same scanner (Siemens Somatom AS64). To mitigate any possible influences due to technologists’ unfamiliarity with the CARE kV, the data with CARE kV were retrieved 1.5 years after the start of CARE kV usage. T-test was used for significant difference in radiation dose. Results: Volume CTDIs and DLPs from 18 patients before and 24 patients after the use of CARE kV were obtained in a duration of one month. There is a slight increase in both average CTDIvol and average DLP with CARE kV compared to those without CARE kV (25.52 mGy vs. 22.65 mGy formore » CTDIvol; 1265.81 mGy-cm vs. 1199.19 mGy-cm). Statistically there was no significant difference. Without CARE kV, 140 kV was used in 9 of 18 patients, while with CARE KV, 140 kV was used in 15 of 24 patients. 80kV was not used in either group. Conclusion: The use of CARE kV may save time for protocol optimization and minimize variability among technologists. Radiation dose reduction was not observed in non-contrast examinations of CT abdomen/pelvis. This was partially because our CT protocols were tailored according to patient size before CARE kV and partially because of large size patients.« less
SU-E-T-546: Modeling and Validation of the a New Proton Therapy System Using a Monte-Carlo Environment Optimized for Protons

8 particle histories were run. Results: Range measurements of the Monte-Carlo simulations matched the measured data within 1mm. Distal fall-off of the simulated fields matched within <1mm. Lateral penumbra and field size measurements of the standard-sized square and half-beam blocked fields matched within 1mm at all three planes compared. A small difference was seen in the in-air profiles at doses <0%. The suspected cause of the difference was the aperture shape. The measured data utilized a divergent aperture. The Monte-Carlo calculation used a non-divergent aperture. Conclusion: The validation measurements indicate that we were able to accurately model the MEVION s250 Proton therapy system using Monte-Carlo Calculations. This may reduce the commissioning time for future users. Purpose: Monte-Carlo modeling is an important tool for understanding the behavior of therapeutic proton beams in a heterogeneous media such as the patient. To gain confidence that a Monte-Carlo model is accurate in complex geometries and media, it must first be compared with measurement in simple situations. This study documents the validation of our Monte-Carlo Model. Methods: A model of the MEVION s250 Proton therapy system was created in the TOPAS Monte-Carlo environment using machine geometry and field shaping system information provided by the vendor.more » For each of 24 options, validation of the TOPAS model was performed by comparing the dose scored by TOPAS to the dose measurements obtained during the commissioning of the treatment planning system. The measurements compared consisted of: pristine peak depth-dose profiles, in-air profiles for a standard-sized square field (20cm×20cm or 10cm×10cm depending on the maximum field size for each option) at isocenter and at 20cm upstream and downstream of isocenter, and in-air profiles with a half-beam blocked aperture at isocenter and at 20cm upstream and downstream of isocenter. For all Monte-Carlo simulations,.« less
Innovation and the Challenge of Novelty: The Novelty-Confirmation-Transformation Cycle in Software and Science

Innovation requires sources of novelty, but the challenge is that not all sources lead to innovation, so its value needs to be determined. However, since ways of determining value stem from existing knowledge this often creates barriers to innovation. To understand how people address the challenge of novelty we develop a conceptual and an empirical framework to explain how this challenge is addressed in a software and scientific context. What is shown is that the process of innovation is a cycle where actors develop novel course of action and based on the consequences identified confirm what knowledge to transform to develop the next course of action. The performance of the process of innovation is constrained by the capacities of the artifacts and the ability of the actors to create and use artifacts to drive this cycle. By focusing on the challenge of novelty, a problem that cuts across all contexts of innovation, our goal is to develop a more generalized account of what drives the process of innovation
130 Gsample/s photonic analog to digital converter

Digital processing of the received signals in radar systems leads to higher performance and the ability to rapidly reconfigure such systems. Typically, the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is the major bottleneck in realizing the digital receiver. Time stretch (TS) preprocessing is a new photonic based approach that can potentially boost the capability of the available electronic ADCs (Coppinger et al, 1999; Bhushan et al, 2000). In this approach, the analog signal is imposed on a chirped optical carrier using an electro-optic modulator. This time to wavelength mapped signal is then dispersed and hence stretched in time prior to digitization by the electronic ADC. Time stretching increases the effective sampling rate and input bandwidth of the ADC. We demonstrate a photonic ADC with a time stretch preprocessor. The system has a sampling rate of 130 GSa/s and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 7 effective number of bits.
Material optimization with perpendicular anisotropy for closed-loop magnetic inductors

When considering magnetic circuits, like inductors, reluctance inevitably comes into play as a simple model to describe efficiency. Analogous to resistance in electrical circuits, reluctance around a closed loop corresponds to the ratio of the magnetic potential put into the circuit and the resulting flux; magnetic flux travels along the path of least reluctance (highest permeability). As such, the most efficient magnetic circuits guide flux along the shortest possible paths with lowest possible reluctance. These correspond to closed loops of high magnetic permeability. Closed loop magnetic inductors have been explored both for spiral coil [1-2] and solenoid [3] inductor designs, but in-plane flux-closed magnetic loops have not yet been achieved. Typical thin-film magnetic deposition methods yield uniaxial anisotropy, which has been shown to provide only linear high permeability regions. Orthogonal regions of the magnetic material with a relative permeability of unity provide little to no advantage over air. Thus, the flux does not preferentially close through the magnetic material [4]. Recently, various methods have been used to produce “isotropic” in-plane permeability [5], but results are strongly dependent on shape anisotropy and precision of the deposition angle with respect to the applied field. Simulations of closed-loop inductors show that having isotropic permeability is not enough; rather, the permeability must be both isotropic and much larger than that of air. By utilizing perpendicular anisotropy in Permalloy films, highly efficient, flux-closed magnetic inductors can be produced with truly isotropic in-plane permeability of 860 and frequency bandwidth up to about 780 MHz.
Second Order Interacting Multiple Model Algorithm for Systems With Markovian Switching Coefficients

An important problem is the estimation of the state of a linear system with Markovian switching coefficients. In this problem, the dynamics of the system is represented by multiple models which are hypothesized to be correct. The Interacting Multiple Model (IMM) algorithm is a novel approach to merging the different model hypotheses. In the IMM algorithm, the state estimate is computed under each possible model hypothesis over the most recent sampling period with each model using a different combination of previous model-conditioned estimates. In this paper, the second order Interacting Multiple Model (IMM2) algorithm is developed for estimating the state of a linear system with Markovian switching coefficients. In the IMM2 algorithm, the state estimate is computed under each possible model hypothesis over the two most recent sampling periods with each model hypothesis using a different combination of the previous model-conditioned estimates. Simulation results are given for a target tracking example to demonstrate the performance of the IMM2 algorithm relative to that of the IMM and second order Generalized Pseudo-Bayesian algorithms.
The impacts of natural disasters on global supply chains

This paper explores how global supply chains expand the risks of natural disasters and how natural disasters affect supply chain operations in the Asia-Pacific context.
Influence of calorimeter surface treatment on heat-transfer measurements in arc-heated test streams.

Enthalpy of gas stream, calorimeter surface treatment and heat transfer measurement errors in arc-heated tests
Smashing the Stack with Hydra: The Many Heads of Advanced Polymorphic Shellcode

Recent work on the analysis of polymorphic shellcode engines suggests that modern obfuscation methods would soon eliminate the usefulness of signature-based network intrusion detection methods [36] and supports growing views that the new generation of shellcode cannot be accurately and efficiently represented by the string signatures which current IDS and AV scanners rely upon. In this paper, we expand on this area of study by demonstrating never before seen concepts in advanced shellcode polymorphism with a proof-of-concept engine which we call Hydra. Hydra distinguishes itself by integrating an array of obfuscation techniques, such as recursive NOP sleds and multi-layer ciphering into one system while offering multiple improvements upon existing strategies. We also introduce never before seen attack methods such as byte-splicing statistical mimicry, safe-returns with forking shellcode and syscall-time-locking. In total, Hydra simultaneously attacks signature, statistical, disassembly, behavioral and emulation-based sensors, as well as frustrates offline forensics. This engine was developed to present an updated view of the frontier of modern polymorphic shellcode and provide an effective tool for evaluation of IDS systems, Cyber test ranges and other related security technologies.
Fat-Soluble Vitamin Nutriture in primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Abstract We measured serum levels of vitamins A, E, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, as well as levels of abnormal (des-γ-carboxy) prothrombin, in 52 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Decreased serum levels of retinol (vitamin A) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D and elevated levels of abnormal prothrombin were common in these patients and correlated with the histologic stage of the disease and with the clinical severity of disease as judged by elevated serum bilirubin levels and decreased serum albumin levels. The increased levels of abnormal prothrombin were due primarily to vitamin K deficiency but also, in part, to the severity of the liver disease itself. Vitamin E deficiency was rare. Only 1 patient had clinical manifestations of fat-soluble vitamin deficiency, night blindness, and gastrointestinal bleeding related to a marked prolongation of the prothrombin time. Deficiencies of fat-soluble vitamins are most likely to be present in jaundiced patients with long-standing, severe cholestasis. We suggest that fat-soluble vitamin status be determined in all patients with primary biliary cirrhosis by appropriate blood tests and that vitamin supplements be given only to those patients who require them.
Disappearance rate of spermatozoa from the ejaculate following vasectomy.

The authors contend that the end point for disappearance of sperm following vasectomy can be determined in a rapid and consistent manner. Bilateral vasectomy was performed with separate scrotal incisions on 13 men under local anesthesia. 1 1/2-2 cm of vas was resected. A preoperative semen specimen and 10 postoperative specimens were supplied as rapidly as possible. The mean number of days to collect the specimens was 15. An average of 68% of the sperm remaining in the vas distal to the vasectomy are ejaculated at each emission. Aspermia was demonstrated after 6-10 ejaculations following vasectomy.
Comprehensive genetic analyses reveal differential expression of spot blotch resistance in four populations of barley

Spot blotch, caused by Cochliobolus sativus, is an important disease of barley in the Upper Midwest region of the United States. The resistance of six-rowed malting cultivars like Morex has remained effective for over 40 years and is considered durable. Previous research on Steptoe/Morex (S/M), a 6x6-rowed doubled haploid (DH) population, showed that seedling resistance is controlled by a single gene (Rcs5) on chromosome 1(7H) and adult plant resistance by two quantitative trait loci (QTL): one of the major effect on chromosome 5(1H) explaining 62% of the phenotypic variance and a second of minor effect on chromosome 1(7H) explaining 9% of the phenotypic variance. To corroborate these results in a 2x6-rowed DH population, composite interval mapping (CIM) was performed on Harrington/Morex (H/M). As in the S/M population, a single major gene (presumably Rcs5) on chromosome 1(7H) conferred resistance at the seedling stage. However, at the adult plant stage, the results were markedly different as no chromosome 5(1H) effect whatsoever was detected. Instead, a QTL at or near Rcs5 on chromosome 1(7H) explained nearly all of the phenotypic variance (75%) for disease severity. To determine whether this result might be due to the genetic background of the two-rowed susceptible parent Harrington, we analyzed another DH population that included the same resistance donor (Morex) and another six-rowed susceptible cultivar Dicktoo (D/M). Three QTL conferred seedling resistance in the D/M population: one near Rcs5 on chromosome 1(7H) explaining 30%, a second near the centromere of chromosome 1(7H) explaining 9%, and a third on the short arm of chromosome 3(3H) explaining 19% of the phenotypic variation. As in the H/M population, no chromosome 5(1H) QTL was detected for adult plant resistance in the D/M population. Instead, three QTL on other chromosomes explained most of the variation: one on the short arm of chromosome 3(3H) explaining 36%, a second on the long arm of chromosome 3(3H) explaining 11%, and a third at or near Rcs5 on chromosome 1(7H) explaining 20% of the phenotypic variation. These data demonstrate the complexity of expression of spot blotch resistance in different populations and have important implications in breeding for durable resistance.
Cancer gene detection using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)

We describe the development of a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) method for cancer gene detection. The technology uses DNA gene probes based on SERS labels for gene detection. The detection method uses nanostructured metallic substrates as SERS-active platforms. The surface-enhanced Raman gene (SERGen) probes can be used to detect DNA targets via hybridization to DNA sequences complementary to these probes. The probes do not require the use of radioactive labels and have great potential to provide both sensitivity and selectivity. The usefulness of the SERGen approach and its applications in cancer gene diagnostics (e.g. BRCA1 breast cancer gene and BAX gene) is discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A practical synthesis of 3(S)-methyl-heptanoic acid from (S)-citronellol

Abstract Chiral 3-methyl-heptanoic acid is readily accessible by functional group manipulation of optically active citronellol. In principle, this approach is general and could be applied to the synthesis of chiral 3-methyl-alkanoic acids seven carbon atoms in length and longer.
Thermal Decomposition Behavior of Hydrated Magnesium Dodecahydrododecaborates

MgB12H12 is an intermediate in the hydrogen desorption and sorption processes of magnesium borohydride, which is an important candidate material for hydrogen storage. It is thus highly desirable to...
Implications of Part D for mentally ill dual eligibles: a challenge for Medicare.

Through the Part D drug program, Medicare has assumed responsibility for the prescription drug needs of beneficiaries and, consequently, for an important component of mental health treatment: psychotropic drugs. Managing the prescription drug benefits of mentally ill dual eligibles could challenge this new program. Efforts to balance quality assurance and cost-effectiveness will be complicated by this population’s vulnerability and high level of health care need, the uncertainties surrounding optimal psychotropic drug use, and the economic incentives of prescription-only insurers. We discuss the details and policy implications of this challenge.
Solar energy utilization by carbanion photolysis

Abstract Photolysis of a variety of hydrocarbon anions with visible or long wavelength UV light leads to several classes of photoreactions. Orbital topology-controlled anionic photorearrangements and the occurrence of photoinduced electron transfers may be general pathways for anionic excited states. These reactions find application in the utilization of solar energy either in photochemical energy storage reactions or in photoelectrochemical cells.
Fertility of Turkey Hens Correlated with Depth of Insemination

In a two year comparison of shallow insemination (two cm.) and deep insemination (seven cm.) involving both Large White and Bronze hens shallow insemination was superior to deep insemination for Large White hens. Shallow insemination of Large White hens resulted in a longer duration-of-fertility and a higher total fertility (P less than 0.01) than deep insemination. The mean fertiltity in a 51 day duration-of-fertility trial during early production was 56.1% following shallow insemination and 43.1% following deep insemination. Late in the breeding season the mean fertility was 39.7% and 27.4% for shallow and deep insemination, respectively. The mean duration-of-fetility was 40.4 days after shallow insemination and 31.2 days after deep insemination. Shallow insemination was superior to deep insemination whether hens were inseminated at 14 days or 28 day intervals. Fertility following shallow insemination of Bronze hens was not different from fertility following deep insemination. In a duration-of-fertility trial of Bronze hens, the mean fertility was 37.3% for shallow insemination and 39.8% for deep insemination. The mean duration-of-fertility were 51.2 days after shallow insemination and 47.0 days after deep insemination.
A Hormone-Dependent Module Regulating Energy Balance

Under fasting conditions, metazoans maintain energy balance by shifting from glucose to fat burning. In the fasted state, SIRT1 promotes catabolic gene expression by deacetylating the forkhead factor FOXO in response to stress and nutrient deprivation. The mechanisms by which hormonal signals regulate FOXO deacetylation remain unclear, however. We identified a hormone-dependent module, consisting of the Ser/Thr kinase SIK3 and the class IIa deacetylase HDAC4, which regulates FOXO activity in Drosophila. During feeding, HDAC4 is phosphorylated and sequestered in the cytoplasm by SIK3, whose activity is upregulated in response to insulin. SIK3 is inactivated during fasting, leading to the dephosphorylation and nuclear translocation of HDAC4 and to FOXO deacetylation. SIK3 mutant flies are starvation sensitive, reflecting FOXO-dependent increases in lipolysis that deplete triglyceride stores; reducing HDAC4 expression restored lipid accumulation. Our results reveal a hormone-regulated pathway that functions in parallel with the nutrient-sensing SIRT1 pathway to maintain energy balance.
Effects of behavioral training on the functioning of a profoundly retarded microcephalic teenager with cerebral palsy and without language or verbal comprehension. A case study.

Abstract I n previous investigations (Jacobson, Berger, Bergman, Millham and Greeson, 1971; Jacobson and Greeson, 1972), it was reported that as a result of the use of a behavior modification program, preschool children from poverty backgrounds demonstrated rapid conceptual acquisition. In addition, the Ss increased from the dull-normal to the normal range of intellectual functioning within approximately 20 hr of program participation. Since the increases in IQ found were most pronounced for children of lowest IQ (IQs = 46–83), the investigators hypothesized that the program would prove to be useful with Ss of greater cognitive and behavioral deficits than the initial population investigated. The present study reports the use of a variant of the conceptual acquisition program with an institutionalized, profoundly retarded microcephalic teenager with chronic brain syndrome and cerebral palsy. Prior to the study the boy demonstrated neither language nor an ability to comprehend and follow verbal directions.
Pilates for Improvement of Muscle Endurance, Flexibility, Balance, and Posture

Many claims have been made about the effectiveness of Pilates exercise on the basic parameters of fitness. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Pilates exercise on abdominal endurance, hamstring flexibility, upper-body muscular endurance, posture, and balance. Fifty subjects were recruited to participate in a 12-week Pilates class, which met for 1 hour 2 times per week. Subjects were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n = 25) or control group (n = 25). Subjects performed the essential (basic) mat routine consisting of ~25 separate exercises focusing on muscular endurance and flexibility of the abdomen, low back, and hips each class session. At the end of the 12-week period, a 1-way analysis of covariance showed a significant level of improvement (p <= 0.05) in all variables except posture and balance. This study demonstrated that in active middle-aged men and women, exposure to Pilates exercise for 12 weeks, for two 60-minute sessions per week, was enough to promote statistically significant increases in abdominal endurance, hamstring flexibility, and upper-body muscular endurance. Participants did not demonstrate improvements in either posture or balance when compared with the control group. Exercise-training programs that address physical inactivity concerns and that are accessible and enjoyable to the general public are a desirable commodity for exercise and fitness trainers. This study suggests that individuals can improve their muscular endurance and flexibility using relatively low-intensity Pilates exercises that do not require equipment or a high degree of skill and are easy to master and use within a personal fitness routine.
Outcomes after renal angioplasty and stent placement in hypertensive african americans with critical renal artery stenosis

Abstract P-162 Key Words: Hypertension, Renovascular Hypertension in African Americans, Angioplasty and Stent Placement
The Impact of EC2000 on Mechanical Engineering Curricula: A Follow-up Study

The Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) is recognized by the US Department of Education as the sole agency responsible for accreditation of educational programs leading to degrees in engineering, engineering technology, and related engineering areas. A new set of criteria for accreditation was established by ABET in the late 1990s, Engineering Criteria 2000 (EC2000). By 2001, all engineering programs were required to be accredited under the new criteria. The philosophy of EC2000 is to allow institutions and programs to define their mission and objectives to meet the needs of their constituents and enable program differentiation. Emphasis is placed on continuous improvement of programs based on the input of constituents and a process that links outcomes and assessment to program objectives. A preliminary study was conducted by the author in 2000 that looked at the initial effects of EC2000. It examined selected mechanical engineering programs to discern the impact of EC2000 on curricul...
The toxicologic and pharmacologic properties of amantadine hydrochloride

Abstract Amantadine HCl (1-adamantanamine HCl) is an antiviral drug effective against A 2 (Asian) influenza in animals and man. The acute oral LD50's of amantadine HCl were: guinea pig, 360 mg/kg; mouse, 700 mg/kg; and male rat, 1275 mg/kg. In the monkey, dog, and horse estimates of the LD50 ranged from >75 mg/kg to >500 mg/kg. Amantadine HCl was adequately tolerated on long term (6 months to 2 years) chronic administration to rats, dogs, and monkeys at doses more than 13 to 33 times the projected human doses without evidence of organ pathology. Central nervous system stimulation, anorexia, emesis and some convulsions at high doses were noted and were the direct or indirect cause of toxic manifestations including mortality. Studies in rats and rabbits revealed good reproductive tolerance and no indication of teratogenicity. Amantadine HCl caused several pharmacologic effects at relatively high doses including signs of central nervous system stimulation (increased spontaneous motor activity, antagonism of tetrabenazine-induced sedation), a mild, transient vasodepressor effect, some cardiac arrhythmias at high doses, some block of uptake of norepinephrine into labile stores (potentiation of norepinephrine vasopressor effect, block of phenethylamine vasopressor response, increase of myocardial contractile force, radioactive norepinephrine distribution studies, and antagonism of tetrabenazine effects), and a weak ganglionic-blocking effect. Amantadine HCl caused these effects at doses much higher than those employed in viral chemotherapy.