cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prophylactic cranial irradiation in elderly patients with small cell lung cancer: findings from a North Central Cancer Treatment Group pooled analysis.

Abstract Objectives To examine the efficacy of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) in elderly patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) (≥70years of age) from a pooled analysis of four prospective trials. Materials & Methods One hundred fifty-five patients with SCLC (limited stage, LSCLC, and extensive stage, ESCLC) participated in four phase II or III trials. Ninety-one patients received PCI (30Gy/15 or 25Gy/10) and 64 patients did not receive PCI. Survival was compared in a landmark analysis that included only patients who had stable disease or better in response to primary therapy. Results Patients who received PCI had better survival than patients who did not receive PCI (median survival 12.0months vs. 7.6months, 3-year overall survival 13.2% vs. 3.1%, HR=0.53 [95% CI 0.36–0.78], p =0.001). On multivariate analysis of the entire cohort, the only factor that remained significant for survival was stage (ESCLC vs. LSCLC, p =0.0072). In contrast, the multivariate analysis of patients who had ESCLC revealed that PCI was the sole factor associated with a survival advantage (HR=0.47 [95% CI 0.24–0.93], p =0.03). Grade 3 or higher adverse events (AEs) were significantly greater in patients who received PCI (71.4% vs. 47.5%, p =0.0031), with non-neuro and non-heme being the specific AE categories most strongly correlated with PCI delivery. Conclusions PCI was associated with a significant improvement in survival for our entire elderly SCLC patient cohort on univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis suggested that the survival advantage remained significant in patients with ESCLC. PCI was also associated with a modest increase in grade 3 or higher AEs.
Catastrophe Theory in Macroeconomics

The Great Depression stimulated a major outbreak of theorizing with respect to the origins of macroeconomic fluctuations. Of course the dominant work of this period was Keynes’ (1936) The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money which inspired the view that such business cycles could be eliminated by the appropriate application of aggregate demand management policies.1 Both bitter historical experience, as well as a variety of theoretical critiques, have since seriously weakened this view. Whether these cycles are exogenous or endogenous, regular or irregular, rational or irrational, or whatever, few are now so sanguine regarding our ability to utterly eliminate them.2
Saturated and Unsaturated Flow to Parallel Drains

Richards equation for transient two-dimensional flow during drainage was solved using numerical methods and the solutions compared to solutions of the more approximate Boussinesq equation. The effect of field variability of the soil properties on solutions to the Richards equation was also examined. For the cases studied, the hydraulic head distributions predicted by the Richards equation were in general agreement with the D-F assumptions except for times near t = 0. Convergence near drainage ditches is more critical immediately after drainage begins than for latter times. It results in a surface of seepage for ditches and water standing over the drain for drain tubes. When convergence near the drain is accounted for, solutions to the Boussinesq equation can be used to adequately predict drawdown for design purposes. Unless enough measurements are made to define field-effective values of the unsaturated soil-water properties, there is little to be gained by solving the Richards equation rather than using simpler approximate methods for drawdown prediction.
Interactive Citation Workbook for The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation, 2015 Edition

The annually revised ICW uses a building-block approach to learning citation. Individual chapters include explanatory text with examples, a checklist summary of the text, and a citation exercise for practicing and reinforcing the rules covered in the chapter. Students can complete a citation exercise either in their ICW Workbook or in the online Workstation, accessible via Lexis Advance. Doing the exercises online provides immediate feedback for both correct and incorrect answers.
Porous Metals as a Hard Tissue Substitute. Part II. Porous Metal Properties

There is a need in anatomical restoration for a reliable, long-term method for attaching artificial materials to living tissue. The advantages and disadvantages of porous metals for attachment are discussed, and several porous metal types are compared. A unique porous metal called Void Metal Composite (VMC) is described. Preliminary data are reported on ingrowth and interface shear strength of VMC implanted 12 months in cat femora. Additionally, data are reported for interface strength in shear and cyclic loading for 6 week implants in goat femora.
North Carolina trial practice

As the first comprehensive, book-length treatment of trial advocacy in the state, North Carolina Trial Practice is an essential aid to the North Carolina practitioner. Professor Carol B. Anderson examines exhaustively both the substantive & procedural aspects of trial practice in North Carolina. She picks up where other books end at the courthouse door. She examines each element of a trial in detail, from opening statement to closing argument, from witness preparation to cross examination & impeachment.
GSK-3 Inhibition Sensitizes Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells to 1,25D-Mediated Differentiation

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D), the biologically active form of vitamin D, is widely considered a promising therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) based on its ability to drive differentiation of leukemic cells. However, clinical trials have been disappointing in part to dose-limiting hypercalcemia. Here we show how inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) can improve the differentiation response of AML cells to 1,25D-mediated differentiation. GSK3 inhibition in AML cells enhanced the differentiating effects of low concentrations of 1,25D. In addition, GSK3 inhibition augmented the ability of 1,25D to induce irreversible growth inhibition and slow the progression of AML in mouse models. Mechanistic studies revealed that GSK3 inhibition led to the hyperphosphorylation of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), enabling an interaction between VDR and the coactivator, SRC-3 (NCOA3), thereby increasing transcriptional activity. We also found that activation of JNK-mediated pathways in response to GSK3 inhibition contributed to the potentiation of 1,25D-induced differentiation. Taken together, our findings offer a preclinical rationale to explore the repositioning of GSK3 inhibitors to enhance differentiation-based therapy for AML treatment. Cancer Res; 76(9); 2743-53. ©2016 AACR.
Tobacco Mosaic Virus Replicase and Replicative Structures

SUMMARY The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (replicase) mediating the replication of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) has been investigated in a number of laboratories over a period of 20 years. Cell-free enzyme preparations have been prepared which can continue the synthesis of nascent complementary RNA, initiated in vivo; however, the enzyme does not require, nor does it respond to, exogenous viral RNA as a template. The presence in plants of a virus-stimulated, host-encoded RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) has added confusion to this field; it is now generally conceded, however, that this enzyme is not the TMV replicase. Our recent studies have emphasized several aspects of TMV RNA replication. We have examined the nature of TMV replicative structures synthesized in vitro by utilizing a partially purified enzyme preparation isolated from TMV-infected tobacco tissue. Radiolabelled products of the reaction were analysed on agarose gels and fractions with the predicted electrophoretic migration and nuclease sensitivities of replicative form (RF) and replicative intermediate (RI) were isolated. These fractions were hybridized to a collection of bacteriophage M13 clones containing portions of the TMV genome of both plus and minus polarity. The nascent synthesis in the RI-like molecules was restricted to the plus viral strand, while the new synthesis in the RF-like molecules was of both plus and minus polarity. Solubilization of the membrane-bound replicase with the non-ionic detergent CHAPS has yielded complexes which remain in solution after high-speed centrifugation. The solubilized replication complexes have been utilized as starting material for enzyme purification by Sepharose 4B gel filtration chromatography. The intracellular site of synthesis of TMV RNA has been reinvestigated in the light of reports suggesting a nuclear site of replication. The conclusion for nuclear synthesis has been based on fractionation of subcellular homogenates of virus-infected leaves or mesophyll protoplasts and identification of virus-related proteins associated with these fractions. In our studies, however, we conclude that these procedures can be misleading in that the 126 000 Mr TMV protein (and replicase activity) were found in all fractions of the homogenate analysed. Double-stranded TMV RNA, on the other hand, was barely detectable in preparations of purified nuclei; instead it was concentrated in the post-nuclear supernatant, suggesting that the nucleus is not the site of TMV RNA synthesis.
Unique sequence of pernicious anemia, polycythemia, and acute leukemia.

The development of three primary blood dyscrasias, namely, pernicious anemia, polycythemia vera, and acute myeloblastic leukemia, in one patient has been reported.
Slow Virus Infections

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, together with some other neurologic disorders, fits the definition of a “slow infection” in requiring an incubation period of years (rather than days or weeks), and its viral origin now appears to be confirmed by the recovery of an agent resembling measles virus from cultures of affected brain material. The probable natural history of the disease is delineated.
Effective management of hospitalized patients--established role of hospitalists in the USA.

OBJECTIVES Summarize and present benefits of effective management of inpatients in US hospitals by hospitalists and discuss the possible implications for healthcare system in Slovakia. BACKGROUND Inpatient or hospital-based internal medicine started to separate from traditional office-based medicine about a decade ago. Today, hospitalist programs are an integral part of most progressive hospitals in the US and the value of such programs is well documented. METHODS Literature review and analysis of Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa hospitalist program. RESULTS Hospitalists improve the quality of care for hospitalized patients, use fewer resources and decrease the length of stay. In 1998 there were 2,000 hospitalists and in 2005 there were more than 15,000 hospitalists in more than 1,800 programs throughout the US. It is projected that by the end of the decade there will be more than 30,000 hospitalists in the US. Mercy Hospital started its hospitalist program in 1999 with one hospitalist and by July 2006 the program will expand to six physicians. The average daily census for a hospitalist is 20 patients and the average length of stay is 3 days. In 2003, with 874 median new admits and consults per year per hospitalist, one hospitalist was able to save approximately dollars 400,000/year compared to the traditional internal medicine model. CONCLUSION Hospitalists are the fastest growing specialty in the US. In addition to the care of medical illnesses including subspecialty and surgical consults, hospitalists also serve as stewards of hospital systems. They improve quality, patient safety, efficient use of resources and reduce variation in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches (Tab. 2, Fig. 3, Ref. 10).
Climate Change and ENSO Effects on Southeastern US Climate Patterns and Maize Yield.

Climate change has a strong influence on weather patterns and significantly affects crop yields globally. El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has a strong influence on the U.S. climate and is related to agricultural production variability. ENSO effects are location-specific and in southeastern U.S. strongly connect with climate variability. When combined with climate change, the effects on growing season climate patterns and crop yields might be greater than expected. In our study, historical monthly precipitation and temperature data were coupled with non-irrigated maize yield data (33–43 years depending on the location) to show a potential yield suppression of ~15% for one °C increase in southeastern U.S. growing season maximum temperature. Yield suppression ranged between −25 and −2% among locations suppressing the southeastern U.S. average yield trend since 1981 by 17 kg ha−1year−1 (~25%), mainly due to year-to-year June temperature anomalies. Yields varied among ENSO phases from 1971–2013, with greater yields observed during El Nino phase. During La Nina years, maximum June temperatures were higher than Neutral and El Nino, whereas June precipitation was lower than El Nino years. Our data highlight the importance of developing location-specific adaptation strategies quantifying both, climate change and ENSO effects on month-specific growing season climate conditions.
Performance and hot-carrier reliability of deep-submicrometer CMOS

Results of a comprehensive study of the performance and hot-carrier reliability of CMOS devices with channel length ranging from submicrometer to deep-submicrometer are presented. It is found that the advantage of n-MOSFETs over p-MOSFETs in driving capability diminishes with scaled device dimensions. The saturation transconductance of deep-submicron MOSFETs degrades even at moderate gate bias because of the high field effect. When using V/sub CC//I/sub DSAT/ as the measure for gate delay, the degradation in gate delay caused by lowering the power supply voltage is found to be less significant as device dimension is scaled down to 0.1 mu m. The hot-carrier generation and hot-carrier-induced device degradation of deep-submicron CMOS are extensively investigated. >
Localization analysis and dimensional scaling in a disordered optical waveguide

Anderson localization properties of a disordered optical waveguide are studied using the mode-width probability density function (PDF). The scaling and convergence of the PDF with the transverse size of the waveguide is explored.
Outcomes for men under 65 with high-risk prostate cancer with Medicaid versus private insurance.

198Background: Increased Medicaid coverage, due to the Affordable Care Act, has been hypothesized to reduce racial disparities. We therefore examined the association between private insurance vs. Medicaid, race, and outcomes for the treatment of high-risk prostate cancer (CaP) among men < 65 years old. Methods: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program identified 116,853 men < 65 diagnosed with CaP from 2007-2011. Multivariable logistic regression modeled the association between insurance status (IS) and stage at presentation. Among men with high-risk CaP, the associations between IS and receipt of definitive therapy (DT) and prostate cancer-specific mortality (PCSM) were determined using multivariable logistic and Fine and Gray competing-risks regression models, respectively. Results: Compared to privately insured men, those with Medicaid were more likely to present with metastatic disease (Mets) (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 5.79; 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.25-6.40; P < 0.001). Among men ...
Level-specific amputations and resulting regenerative outcomes in the mouse distal phalanx.

Mouse digit tip regeneration involves an intricate coordinated regrowth of the terminal phalanx, nail, dermis and epidermis. During this time, regenerating digits undergo wound healing, blastema formation, and differentiation. However, the regenerative response of the digit is dependent on the level of the amputation. Amputation of 60% P3 removal results in no regeneration. This level-dependent regenerative ability of the mouse digit provides a comparative model between regeneration and non-regeneration that may enable identification of specific factors critical to regeneration. Although the ability to create regenerating and non-regenerating conditions has been well established, the regenerative response between these regions ("intermediate" zone) has received less scrutiny, and may add insight to the regenerative processes, including the degree of histolysis, and the level of blastema formation. The objective of this study is then to compare the regeneration capacity between amputation levels within the regenerating ( 60%) regions. Results indicated that regenerative and intermediate amputations led to significant histolysis and blastema formation of the distal phalanx 14 days post-amputation. Unlike the regenerating digits, intermediate amputations led to incomplete regeneration whereby regrowth of the digits were not to the levels of the intact or regenerating digits. Non-regenerating amputations did not exhibit significant histolysis or blastema formation. Remarkably, the histolytic process resulted in day 14 P3 lengths that were similar regardless of the initial amputation over 19%. The differences in histolysis, blastema formation and injury outcomes were also marked by changes in the number of proliferating cells and osteoclasts. Altogether, these results indicate that although intermediate amputations result in histolysis and blastema formation similar to regenerating digits, the resulting cellular composition of the blastema differs, contributing to incomplete regeneration.
A View of Business Requirements on Distributed Data Processing Systems

Abstract In introducing this author’s view to the discussion of similarities and differences between distributed data processing systems and distributed computer control systems, this paper discusses some of the key requirements in the business environment highlighting the need for some degree of central control over the DDP environment.
Optimal timing for elective resection of asymptomatic congenital pulmonary airway malformations

Abstract Purpose We sought to determine optimal timing for CPAM resection within the first year of life. Methods We queried the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program pediatric database from 2012 to 2015 for elective CPAM resections on patients less than 1year of age. Patients were divided by age in months: 1–3 (n=57), 4–6 (n=135), and 6–12 (n=214). Patient operative variables and 30-day postoperative outcomes were compared. Results A total of 406 patients were included with no differences in demographics or comorbidities. Median operative time increased with each older age category (115min, 152min, 163min, respectively; p Conclusion Elective CPAM resections are equally safe in patients 1–12months of age. Earlier resection including both open and thoracoscopic resection is associated with decreased operative time. Level of Evidence IIc, Outcomes Research.
Analysis of Circuit Noise and Non-Ideal Filtering Impact on Energy Detection Based Ultra-Low-Power Radios Performance

With the coming of age of the Internet of Things, demand on ultra-low power (ULP) radios will continue to boost tremendously. Circuit imperfections, especially in power hungry blocks, i.e., the local oscillators (LO) and band pass filters (BPFs), pose a real challenge for ULP radios designers considering their tight power budget. This brief presents an investigation on the effects of circuit non-idealities on the bit-error rate performance of on-off keying and Gaussian frequency-shift keying energy detection (ED)-based wakeup radios. In particular, this brief analyzes the impact of phase noise and frequency offset in the LO, BPFs bandwidth and roll-off, noise figure on ULP receivers’ performance. This brief contributes to the ongoing research in designing ULP wireless nodes by demonstrating the tradeoffs between these non-idealities and the receiver’s sensitivity level and selectivity and show some design guidelines for ED-based ULP radios.
Do the poor want to be regulated? Public opinion surveys on regulation in the United States, 1981–2002

Recent research has demonstrated that public regulation of private economic activity often has regressive effects. Despite those effects, poorer Americans show strong support for a variety of regulations in public opinion surveys. I use the database of survey questions from 1981 to 2002, assembled by Martin Gilens, to identify 85 questions that deal with economic regulation. Poorer Americans support regulation on most issues, and they often favor regulatory intervention more than Americans at the median or upper income levels. I also use similar questions from surveys of economists to suggest the possibility of rational irrationality on the part of low-income Americans when they disagree with economists.
Multivariate Chemical Data Assimilation

We present an overview of the mathematical formalism of data assimilation applied to photochemical atmospheric models. Examples of Kaiman filter and variational assimilation analysis are presented along with time-dependent linearization and error covariance matrices for a typical stratospheric chemical system described in the Chapter Introduction to Atmospheric Photochemical Modelling.
Phospholipid Bilayer Assembly: Facilitated Transmembrane Movement of Phosphatidylcholine

The transmembrane movement of phospholipids is a fundamental step in membrane assembly and intracellular lipid sorting. Phospholipid synthesis occurs on the cytoplasmic surface of the endoplasmic reticulum. Translocation to the lumenal surface is required for assembly of the bilayer. Studies employing a spectrophotometric assay to measure the transmembrane movement of phosphatidylglycerol and diacylglycerol analogs in phospholipid vesicles revealed half-times of greater than 8 days and less than 15 seconds, respectively. The hypothesis that rat liver microsomes possess a “PC flippase” was tested by determining whether sn 1,2-dibutyroylphosphatidylcholine (diC4PC) was transported into the lumen. This compound was chosen for study because it retains the polar head group, the portion of PC unable to spontaneously move across the membrane. Since diC4PC is water soluble, standard transport methods could be applied. DiC4PC uptake into the microsomal lumen was saturable, time dependent and proportional to the amount of microsomes employed. An intact permeability barrier was required. DiC4PC transport was inhibited by structural analogs (but not sn-2,3-diC4PC) and was inhibited by proteases and protein modification reagents. Transport of diC4PC was not observed across PC vesicles or red cell membranes where PC movement is slow. The transport of diC4PC is a protein facilitated process. It is inferred that the same system functions in PC translocation in the assembly of the endoplasmic reticulum bilayer.
Different efficacy in vitro of hemoglobin based oxygen carriers and red cells.

A vast literature exists which either theoretically explores the mechanism of oxygen delivery from blood to the surrounding tissues [1,3], or simulates oxygen delivery and absorption by red cells suspension and cell free hemoglobin solutions using artificial capillary systems [4,6]. Very little is known about the physiologic efficiency of cell free hemoglobin solutions to sustain life of isolated organs and tissues. We thought that the oxygen dependent transport of metabolites across ileal mucosa, superfused in Ussing chambers, could be used to test the efficacy of hemoglobin based oxygen carriers [7].
Time-resolved PIV measurements in a low-aspect ratio facility of randomly packed spheres and flow analysis using modal decomposition

This work experimentally investigated the flow characteristics in a facility with randomly packed spheres at a low-aspect ratio of 4.4. Velocity fields in the near-wall region and in the pores between spheres were obtained by employing the matched-index-of-refraction (MIR) and time-resolved particle image velocimetry (TR-PIV) techniques for Reynolds numbers of 340, 520, and 720. From the obtained TR-PIV velocity vector fields, flow characteristics including first- and second-order statistics, such as mean velocity, root-mean-square fluctuating velocity, and Reynolds stress profiles, were computed. The effects of the wall enclosure and Reynolds numbers on the flow patterns were investigated by comparing the computed flow statistics and evaluating two-point cross correlations of the velocities measured adjacent to and far from the wall. Comparisons of the mean velocities, root-mean-square fluctuating velocities, and Reynolds stress component showed an increase in flow mixing and turbulent intensity in the gaps between spheres in the packed bed. The re-circulation-region sizes, however, were found to be independent from an increase in Reynolds numbers. Finally, flow modal decompositions, such as the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) and dynamic mode decomposition (DMD), were applied to the vorticity fields extracted from sub-regions located near and far from the wall to reveal the most dominant POD and DMD flow structures.
Targeting epigenetic mechanisms for chronic visceral pain: A valid approach for the development of novel therapeutics

Background Chronic visceral pain is persistent pain emanating from thoracic, pelvic, or abdominal origin that is poorly localized with regard to the specific organ affected. The prevalence can range up to 25% in the adult population as chronic visceral pain is a common feature of many visceral disorders, which may or may not be accompanied by distinct structural or histological abnormalities within the visceral organs. Mounting evidence suggests that changes in epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the top-down or bottom-up sensitization of pain pathways and the development of chronic pain. Epigenetic changes can lead to long-term alterations in gene expression profiles of neurons and consequently alter functionality of peripheral neurons, dorsal root ganglia, spinal cord, and brain neurons. However, epigenetic modifications are dynamic, and thus, detrimental changes may be reversible. Hence, external factors/therapeutic interventions may be capable of modulating the epigenome and restore normal gene expression for extended periods of time. Purpose The goal of this review is to highlight the latest discoveries made toward understanding the epigenetic mechanisms that are involved in the development or maintenance of chronic visceral pain. Furthermore, this review will provide evidence supporting that targeting these epigenetic mechanisms may represent a novel approach to treat chronic visceral pain.
Summoned to Service by TOFF Funds and Aristocratic Bells

‘Von’ Mises contemptuously asserted that the university ‘enterprise’ of economic political science held a ‘strong attraction to halfwits.’ It is, however, usual to presume that a ‘free’ market Professor of Economics has genuinely earned the educational qualifications that underpin their title. It is also unusual (and possibly praiseworthy) for a University Professor of Economics to have failed to gain university admission or to have failed their undergraduate degree in economics. But when pattern recognition (and thus pattern prediction) reveals a school-based portal, does this suggest that the Austrian business model aims to reduce the transaction costs of acquiring educational qualifications? According to the George Mason University Professor of Economics, Don Boudreaux (a Cafe Hayek blogger and one of Hayek’s ‘secondhand dealers in opinion’): ‘Scientific data undermine’ the ‘assertion’ that ‘Secondhand smoke kills!’ And according to the co-founder of the Mises Institute, Llewellyn Rockwell Jr., there was a final ‘free’ market solution to externalities: ‘anyone who is personally harmed, or his business damaged, by air pollution ought to be able to sue to stop it, and receive damages.’ But as his fellow, Mises Institute co-founder, Murray Rothbard, observed (when feeling helpless in the face of what he asserted were Charles Koch’s crimes): ‘How do you sue a billionaire?’ (Frontlines May 1981). Hayek encouraged his ‘secondhand dealers in opinion’ to use the ‘knowledge’ that externalities had been invented by a Soviet agent—despite knowing that this ‘knowledge’ had been promoted by a fraud. And ‘free’ market promoters openly express contempt for those they have colonised—when they think that only the ideologically correct are listening. This chapter suggests that we need a systematic study of the social origins and psychological predispositions of Austrian School recruits.
Can we expect improvements in outcomes with centrifugal vs axial flow left ventricular assist devices in patients transitioned from extracorporeal life support

Background Several patient-related characteristics have been associated with inferior outcomes following durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation in patients transitioned from venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO). The impact of LVAD pump type used is less well-known. Methods We compared outcomes between patents who received axial and centrifugal flow LVADs following stabilization with VA ECMO. Results From January 2011 to December 2018, we implanted 28 LVADs in patients transitioned from VA ECMO. This included 17 axial flow devices (HeartMate II LVAD, Abbott Laboratories, Chicago, IL) and 11 centrifugal flow pumps (eight HeartWare HVADs; Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN and three HeartMate 3 LVAS pumps; Abbott Laboratories, Chicago, IL). There was no difference in hospital mortality (23.5% vs 18.2%, P = .74) or 1-year survival (P = .31) between the devices. There were no differences in adverse event rates between the two pump types, apart from a higher rate of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients who received centrifugal flow pumps (1.44 events per 100 patient-months vs 14.67 events per 100 patient-months, P = .010). Preimplantation levels of alanine aminotransferase (hazard ratio [HR], 1.001; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.000 to 1.002; P = .004) and elevated serum creatinine level (HR, 3.480; 95% CI, 1.121-10.807; P = .031) emerged as significant predictors of decreased 1-year survival. Conclusions Preimplantation optimization of end-organ function is the single most important determinant of successful post-LVAD survival in patients transitioned from extracorporeal life support. There is no association of pump type with LVAD outcomes up to 1-year post implantation.
Cloud-based multi-media systems for patient education and adherence: a pilot study to explore patient compliance with colonoscopy procedure preparation

Technology based patient education and adherence approaches are increasingly utilized to instruct and remind patients to prepare correctly for medical procedures. This study examines the interaction between two primary factors: patterns of patient adherence to challenging medical preparation procedures; and the demonstrated, measurable potential for cloud-based multi-media information technology (IT) interventions to improve patient adherence. An IT artifact was developed through prior design science research to serve information, reminders, and online video instruction modules to patients. The application was tested with 297 patients who were assessed clinically by physicians. Results indicate modest potential (43.4% relative improvement) for the IT-based approach for improving patient adherence to endoscopy preparations. Purposively designed cloud-based applications hold promise for aiding patients with complex medical procedure preparation. Health care provider involvement in the design and evaluation of a patient application may be an effective strategy to produce medical evidence and encourage the adoption of adherence apps.
Update in Genetics and Surgical Management of Primary Congenital Glaucoma

Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) continues to be an important cause of visual impairment in children despite advances in medical and surgical treatment options. The progressive and blinding nature of the disease, together with the long lifespan of the affected population, necessitates a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology of PCG and the development of long-lasting treatment options. The first part of this review discusses the genetic features and makeup of this disorder, including all currently identified genetic loci (GLC3A, GLC3B, GLC3C and GLC3D) and relevant protein targets important for trabecular and Schlemm canal dysgenesis. These target molecules primarily include CYP1B1, LTBP2, and TEK/Tie2 proteins. Their potential roles in PCG pathogenesis are discussed with the purpose of bringing the readers up to date on the molecular genetics aspect of this disorder. Special emphasis is placed on functional implications of reported genetic mutations in the setting of PCG. The second part of the review focuses on various modifications and refinements to the traditional surgical approaches performed to treat PCG, including advances in goniotomy and trabeculotomy ab externo techniques, glaucoma drainage implant surgery and cyclodiode photocoagulation techniques that ultimately provide safer surgical approaches and more effective intraocular pressure control in the 21st century.
A Competitive System: Graduate Student Recruitment in STEM and Why Money May Not be the Answer

Doctoral student recruitment is a dynamic, complex, and under-researched phenomenon. There is steep competition between programs for recruiting students with large amounts of resources at stake, es...
Let's Put Computers into the Mathematics Curriculum.

I propose a rather drastic restructuring of the traditional high school mathematics curriculum for those students who plan to go to college. Whereas this proposal is aimed primarily at the college-bound stu dent, it should encourage everyone to study more mathematics. The heart of the proposal is to delete plane geometry as a required course in the traditional academic sequence and to re place it with a year-long course in com puter programming. My reasons for mak ing this proposal are based on my experiences as a college teacher. Students often study only two years of mathematics in high school. They have usually studied firstyear algebra and plane geometry. One year of algebra is grossly inadequate for the study of mathematics in college. Bear in mind that most college curricula require the knowledge of mathematics beyond the first-year-algebra level. For example, engi neering and science majors require calcu lus. Psychology majors and sociology ma jors are usually required to take a statistics course. All education majors take some col lege-level mathematics, and business ma jors are often required to take a calculus se quence. By the time students get to college, many have forgotten most of the algebra they did learn. I believe plane geometry is in the cur riculum for historical reasons. I can recall reading about how the formal reasoning, the use of logic, and the mental discipline required to prove theorems in plane geom etry would do wonders for the student's in tellect. I don't think such claims have ever been proved. It is true that in the study of plane geometry, one is introduced to mathematical thinking, that one learns the rudiments of logic, and that one must be disciplined; but very few people ever go into a discipline that uses mathematical thinking, and there are certainly many other ways to learn about logic that do not involve the study of plane geometry. I would classify mathematical thinking as a form of problem solving. It involves the analysis of given information and the synthesis of the information to discover new facts. This type of reasoning is very difficult. I know of no better way of in troducing it to students than through the use of computers. In addition, computer programs must be very logically con structed. They are, in fact, a proof of the computability of some result. It goes without saying that computers demand discipline. One cannot deviate one iota from the pre scribed rules of syntax (the computer lan guage) or else one is presented with an er ror message. Let me try to illustrate some of these ideas. In algebra we teach students how to solve quadratic equations. I presume that the usual procedure is to show them how to complete a square on sample problems and then to do it in general to derive the stan dard quadratic formula
Modelling the Resolution Gain in Ptychographic Structured Modulation Microscopy

The effects of system geometry and diffuser properties on image recovery are investigated theoretically and through simulation. Recovered resolution improves as the sample-diffuser distance decreases and as the diffuser profile bandwidth increases.
Eliminating the Blackacre Opportunity Cost Through Experiential Learning: Using 'Targeted Fact Environments' in First-Year Lawyering Skills Courses

Using Targeted Fact Environments ("TFEs") in First Year Lawyering Skills ("FYLS") classes, particularly in service to an area non-profit, and at essentially no additional cost, would create a more relevant first-year experience, inform and energize an entire captive cohort on issues of import to our communities and to the practice of law, provide a public service, help our students make a difference in the first year, and avoid or eliminate the Blackacre opportunity cost. This TFE path would further crystallize some of the recent literature on ways to incorporate FYLS into doctrinal courses, or meld FYLS and clinical courses, or create more practice-ready graduates, or improve our relevance and footprint in our communities, or help meet enhanced ABA scrutiny, or enhance pro bono service mindsets, or all of the above. What Dean would oppose teaching the same skills now taught in FYLS while simultaneously gaining so many other benefits? Law schools cannot afford the Blackacre opportunity cost any longer, and as part of the shift toward experiential learning and practice-ready graduates, law schools should adopt TFEs in FYLS courses. The time is now. The cost is minimal. The benefits are clear and substantial. The choice is yours.
Foraging Behavior of Female Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Based on Visual Cues

The attraction of blow flies to different resources can be affected by their ovarian development. For this study, the foraging behavior of the blow fly Calliphora terraenovae Macquart (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and attraction to visual cues mimicking flower colors were examined. Naive blow flies that have not fed on protein and do not have eggs to lay should be attracted to flower colors that represent nectar resources, such as white, pink, yellow. Naive male and female blow flies were put into experimental cages and exposed to seven flower water representing various colors for 24 h. After 24 h, the flies were removed and assorted by sex. Based on the results, both male and female flies preferred the color purple. Female flies preferred purple as well, but also showed preference for pink. By understanding the color preference of adult blow flies, forensic entomologists can further their understanding of attraction to various resources, whether for nutrients or as potential oviposition sites.
The X-ray photoelectron spectra of inorganic molecules—VIII[1, 2]: Compounds of scandium(III), scandium(III) oxide and complexes with organic oxygen donor molecules

Abstract The X-ray photoelectron spectra of ten compounds of scandium(III) are reported. Spectra were recorded with the samples exposed to a ‘zero’ volt electron flux to reduce to a minimum any surface charging effects. Where appropriate scandium 2 p , oxygen 1 s and carbon 1 s binding energies were measured. The scandium 2 p binding energies were found to be relatively insensitive to the environment about the central scandium atoms. Oxygen 1 s and carbon 1 s binding energies are discussed in terms of the known or presumed structure of the compounds. In the case of Sc 2 O 3 and Sc 2 (C 2 O 4 ) 3 . 6H 2 O, “satellite” peaks were observed on the high binding energy side of the scandium 2 p doublets. The possible origin of these satellites is discussed.
Nitrogen fertilization of wheat residue affecting nitrous oxide and methane emission from a central Ohio Luvisol

Fertilization of wheat (Triticum aestivum, L.) residue applied to degraded soils has shown promise as an option to restoring soil organic C (SOC) stocks, but the impact of the practice on N2O and CH4 emissions is not clear. It was hypothesized that, in addition to the mulch-induced soil wetness conditions favorable for N2O and CH4 formation, emission of these gases will be stimulated due to increased availability of mineral N and interference of NH4+ with CH4 oxidation in soils. During the period February–November 2000, fluxes of N2O and CH4 were monitored in a plant-free central Ohio Crosby soil (fine, mixed, mesic Aeric Ochraqualf) amended for 4 years with wheat straw (bare, 0; low, 8 Mg ha–1 year–1; and high, 16 Mg ha–1 year–1) without and with N fertilization (244 kg N ha–1). The average annual N2O fluxes were 1.1 kg N2O-N ha–1 in the unfertilized and 4.1 kg N2O-N ha–1 in the fertilized treatments. Annual N2O emission (Y, mg N2O-N m–2) was strongly correlated to the maximum daily flux (X, mg N2O-N m–2 day–1; Y=48.3X−58.1, R2=0.85, P<0.001) recorded on experimental plots. These flux maxima occurred at spring thaw in the unfertilized, and 6–30 days after fertilization in the fertilized treatments. Net CH4 uptakes were measured on some occasions; overall, however, all the treatments were net CH4 emitters with annual rates of 3.6, 4.9 and 5.1 kg CH4-C ha–1 in the bare, low and high residue treatments, respectively. No significant effect of fertilization and mulch rate on CH4 fluxes was found, but temperature and landscape position appeared as strong controllers. Regardless of treatments, the highest CH4-emitting plots were located in a minor depressional area at the experimental site. A comparison of SOC gain and N2O and CH4 emission expressed as CO2-equivalents indicates that the residue treatments have a net CO2-mitigating effect, but since C sequestration rates are expected to decrease with time, that positive effect will likely vanish after 7 and 12 more years in the fertilized and unfertilized residue treatments, respectively.
Immediate postoperative imaging after uncomplicated endoscopic approach to the anterior skull base: is it necessary?

Background Postoperative imaging is frequently performed to assess for intracranial complications following anterior skull base (ASB) surgery. However, there is little data to suggest that radiologic studies change the management of complications. In this study, the utility of postoperative imaging within 72 hours after uncomplicated ASB surgery was examined. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of 143 patients who underwent endoscopic ASB surgery between 2007 and 2013 at Loyola University Medical Center. The main outcomes measures included the ability of head computed tomography (CT) scan to identify postoperative complications and hallmark symptoms associated with complications. Results Seventy-nine patients underwent postoperative imaging within 72 hours of the initial surgery. The most common finding was pneumocephalus (35/79; 44%). Expanding pneumocephalus requiring surgical intervention developed in 3 cases. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak was the most common complication, occurring in 22 of 143 (15%) of the patients. Of the 24 patients who developed a postoperative complication, all had clinical signs or symptoms indicative of the need for surgical or medical intervention. The positive predictive value for a head CT scan to detect a complication was 12%, negative predictive value was 92%, and sensitivity and specificity were 63% and 48%, respectively. Conclusion Routine postoperative imaging may be unnecessary after uncomplicated endoscopic ASB surgery because (1) it may not alter patient management; (2) it may not detect the most common complication (CSF leak); and (3) when imaging is positive, the patient has clinical symptoms suggesting a need for intervention.
Accelerating quality improvement within your organization: Applying the Model for Improvement

Abstract Objective To discuss the fundamentals of the Model for Improvement and how the model can be applied to quality improvement activities associated with medication use, including understanding the three essential questions that guide quality improvement, applying a process for actively testing change within an organization, and measuring the success of these changes on care delivery. Data sources PubMed from 1990 through April 2014 using the search terms quality improvement, process improvement, hospitals, and primary care. Study selection At the authors' discretion, studies were selected based on their relevance in demonstrating the quality improvement process and tests of change within an organization. Summary Organizations are continuously seeking to enhance quality in patient care services, and much of this work focuses on improving care delivery processes. Yet change in these systems is often slow, which can lead to frustration or apathy among frontline practitioners. Adopting and applying the Model for Improvement as a core strategy for quality improvement efforts can accelerate the process. While the model is frequently well known in hospitals and primary care settings, it is not always familiar to pharmacists. In addition, while some organizations may be familiar with the "plan, do, study, act" (PDSA) cycles—one element of the Model for Improvement—many do not apply it effectively. The goal of the model is to combine a continuous process of small tests of change (PDSA cycles) within an overarching aim with a longitudinal measurement process. This process differs from other forms of improvement work that plan and implement large-scale change over an extended period, followed by months of data collection. In this scenario it may take months or years to determine whether an intervention will have a positive impact. Conclusion By following the Model for Improvement, frontline practitioners and their organizational leaders quickly identify strategies that make a positive difference and result in a greater degree of success.
The structure-property relationships of LLDPE–EVOH blend films fabricated by multiplication extrusion

Abstract The blend of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) with weight fraction of 50–50 is extruded through a series of multipliers to fabricate thin films. Different numbers of multipliers are utilized to tailor the morphology of the extruded blend films. We discover that as the number of multipliers increases, the blend film morphology evolves dramatically. The elongated and layer-like structure is gradually replaced by well-dispersed nano-blend morphology when the number of multipliers reaches eight. The domain size of each component decreases due to the effect of multiplication process. This is because during the multiplication process, multipliers behave similar to static mixers that physically break the elongated and layer-like structure of LLDPE and EVOH into tiny domains. Along with the morphological evolution, the physical properties of the extruded blend films change greatly. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and wide angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) are utilized to investigate the morphology and crystalline structure of the blend films. Oxygen gas permeability and water vapor transport rate (WVTR) are measured by MOCON units. The transmission rate and mechanical properties are studied by the UV–vis and a mechanical tensile stretcher (MTS) respectively. We report that both oxygen permeability and WVTR increase as the number of multipliers increases. The transparency is improved as more multipliers are used. The last but not the least, tensile mechanical behaviors gradually become isotropic at different deformation directions as the morphology changes.