cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CHEMICAL MECHANISM OF SONIC, ACID, ALKALINE AND ENZYMIC DEGRADATION OF DNA.

The sonic degradation of T2 DNA in an H 18 OH-enriched medium occurs by approximately 90% C-O bond rupture and by 10% P-O bond rupture. Possible C-C bond rupture has been excluded by the close correlation of molecular weights obtained by sedimentation velocity and by techniques of alkaline phosphatase-inorganic phosphate release. Less than 10% of the DNA backbone scissions can result from removal of nitrogenous bases and subsequent elimination. Both hydrolysis in 0·2 N -H 2 SO 4 at 100°C and hydrolysis in 0·1 or 0·2 N Ba(OH) 2 −0·5 N -NaOH at 100°C of T2 DNA or salmon sperm DNA occur partially by P-O and partially by C-O bond rupture. Alkaline hydrolysis results in more P-O bond rupture than acid hydrolysis. DNase hydrolysis of DNA occurs by P-O bond rupture.
The effect of pre‐wetting on liquid penetration performance of surgical gown fabrics

This paper presents the results of a study to explore the effects of pre‐wetting of the inner and outer surface of surgical gown materials on their resistance to subsequent penetration. Two gown fabrics currently in common use, one disposable and one reusable, were tested for liquid penetration following standard procedures specified for categorizing surgical gown protection levels. Synthetic blood, simulated human perspiration, and isopropyl alcohols were used as challenge liquids. Significant results from independent‐samples t‐test analysis indicated that the dry–wet condition of surgical gown fabrics is a significant factor in barrier efficacy. Protection of the wearer may be compromised by gown fabric wetness from blood or other liquids in the surgical environment or by the wearer’s perspiration. Protocols for replacement of surgical gowns may need to take these factors into account.
Effect of estradiol-17, β on the magnitude and distribution of uterine blood flow in nonpregnant, Oophorectomized Ewes

Effect of Estradiol-17, β on the Magnitude and Distribution of Uterine Blood Flow in Nonpregnant, Oophorectomized Ewes
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis can infect and cause mortality in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has been identified as a causative agent in the precipitous decline of amphibians worldwide. Studies on the fungus including its ability to infect and kill the host require use of frogs, a precious resource. Therefore, the development of an alternate host model to study the virulence of the fungus would be useful. Here, we show that Bd can cause mortality in the nematode Caenorhabditiselegans. Incubation of Bd with C. elegans resulted in greater than 70% mortality in the nematodes over a period of 24 h. Fluorescence microscopy using propidium iodide, a fluorescent dye used to determine cell viability, and tactile assays were used to discriminate between live and dead nematodes. These observations suggest that C. elegans may be a useful model organism to study the pathogenicity and virulence mechanisms of Bd.
Chemical modification of the surface of poly(dimethylsiloxane) by atom-transfer radical polymerization of acrylamide

The chemical modification of the surface of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), which was made using Sylgard 184 with polyacrylamide by atom-transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), was investigated by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to characterize the functional groups on the surface. A UV−ozone plasma generator was used to oxidize the surface of the PDMS for time periods ranging from 2 to 30 min. The resulting silanol groups were reacted with a gaseous trichlorosilane bearing an initiator for atom-transfer radical polymerization, (1-trichlorosilyl-2-m-p-chloromethylphenyl)ethane, and subsequent atom-transfer radical polymerization with acrylamide was carried out in water. Damage to the material became evident after 30 min. Attenuated total internal reflectance FTIR showed that the amount of polyacrylamide bound to the surface reached a maximum after 15 min of oxidation, suggesting that the surface silanols reached a maximum concentration at this time. The surface exhibited a 20-fold impr...
Pediatric indications for deep brain stimulation.

Purpose Based on the success of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of adult disorders, it is reasonable to assume that the application of DBS in the pediatric population is an emerging area worthy of study. The purpose of this paper is to outline the current movement disorder indications for DBS in the pediatric population, and to describe areas of investigation, including possible medically refractory psychiatric indications.
Sequential Concentration of Bacteria and Viruses from Marine Waters using a Dual Membrane System

The ability to rapidly and effectively concentrate diverse microbes is an essential component for monitoring water quality at recreational beaches. The purpose of this study was to develop a 0.45 microm pore size dual membrane system, which can sequentially concentrate both viruses and bacteria. The top PVDF membrane was used to filter bacteria by physical straining while the bottom HA membrane retained viruses through adsorption. The recovery of this system was assessed using test organisms: enterococci and somatic coliphage. Volumes of 100 to 400 mL of unspiked and sewage-spiked beach water were filtered through both types of membranes. The PVDF membrane recovered statistically equivalent amounts of enterococci when compared to traditional membranes. All of the coliphage passed through the PVDF membrane, while 22% passed through the HA membrane. Increasing the volume from 100 to 400 mL did not significantly influence recoveries. Up to 35% of coliphage was eluted from the bottom membrane using beef extract solution. Rinsing bottom membranes with 0.5 mmol L(-1) H(2)S0(4) was found to deactivate somatic coliphage. This research demonstrates the potential of using a dual membrane adsorption system for the concentration of both bacteria and viruses from recreational beaches. A proposed bi-layer filtration system can be designed for simultaneous bacteria and virus filtration. Future experiments should focus on measurements utilizing additional bacteria and viruses.
The Creation of a Synchronous Learning Environment to Support a Study Abroad Program for Nursing Majors at a Traditional Liberal Arts University

In response to an increased need for Spanish-speaking and culturally competent nurses, a small private undergraduate-only liberal arts university implemented a semester-long study abroad program for nursing majors in Barcelona, Spain. Prior to the creation of this program, study abroad for nursing students was limited because of prelicensure requirements and limitations of a traditional nursing curriculum. Students studying in Spain enroll in four courses—including two core nursing courses delivered using Polycom hardware and telepresence software by nursing faculty who remain in the United States, a Spanish language course, and one general education course taught either by the University's Spain Director or by an experienced Spanish professor. Participants live with host families and participate in clinical and community observational experiences in Spanish health care agencies. Students then complete direct patient care requirements upon return to the United States. To our knowledge, no other undergraduate-only institution offers a semester-long study abroad experience for nursing majors embedded within the curriculum using synchronous learning; we believe our Spain program, which is in its fourth year being open to nursing majors, is truly an innovative approach to establish cultural competence for undergraduate nursing majors that could serve as a model for other schools of nursing and health disciplines.
Study of correlations with ions (theory)

Abstract This paper surveys our current knowledge of the nature of angular and radial correlations between electrons in doubly-excited states of atoms, with special emphasis on the ions H − and N 5+ . Strong correlations are observed in these systems, particularly at high excitation. The states fall into two classes depending on the type of radial correlations in them. Negative and positive ions display many common features but also differ in important respects in one class of states.
CMOS fully differential second-generation current conveyor

The design of a CMOS fully differential second generation current conveyor is presented. The proposed circuit was designed to incorporate the current sensing technique into a fully differential version of a differential difference amplifier (DDA). A low power class AB circuit realisation has been implemented in 1.2 /spl mu/m CMOS technology. A variable gain amplifier (VGA) designed to incorporate the circuit has been shown to exhibit constant, low power consumption and constant, wide bandwidth at different gain settings. Experimental results of the proposed circuits are presented.
Validation of a Doppler guide wire for intravascular measurement of coronary artery flow velocity.

BACKGROUNDAn improved intravascular ultrasonic Doppler device could aid the clinical assessment of coronary hemodynamics. We evaluated a new device consisting of a 12-MHz piezoelectric transducer integrated onto the tip of a 0.018-in. flexible, steerable angioplasty guide wire.METHODS AND RESULTSDoppler spectra were recorded in model tubes with pulsatile blood flow and in-line electromagnetic flowmeter. In four straight tubes (i.d., 0.79-4.76 mm), the time average of spectral peak velocity (APV) was linearly related to blood flow (QEMF) (r2 greater than or equal to 0.98 for each tube). A Doppler-derived quantitative flow estimate (QD) was calculated as the product of vessel cross-sectional area and mean velocity, with mean velocity estimated as 0.5 x APV. The slope of QD versus QEMF for the four tubes was near unity. APV was less accurate in a 7.94-mm straight tube and in tortuous segments. In four dogs, the left circumflex coronary artery (LCx) was perfused from the femoral artery via a cannula with in-l...
Variation in utilization of cardiac procedures in the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system: Effect of race

Abstract Objectives. Utilization rates for cardiac catheterization and cardiac surgery in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system were studied to determine whether racial diierences existed in a delivery plan in which access is not determined by patient finances. Background. Prior studies have demonstrated significant differences in utilization of cardiac diagnostic and therapeutic resources by white and black patients. Reasons for the reduced utilization by black patients include socioeconomic, biologic and sociocultural effects. Methods. Computerized discharge records of 30,300 patients with coronary artery disease and 1,335 patients with valvular heart disease who were discharged from any of 172 VA Medical Centers between October 1, 1990 and September 30, 1991 were studied. Results. For patients with coronary artery disease, utilization rates of cardiac catheterization were significantly greater for white patients (503.4 procedures/1000 patients) than for black patients (433.2/1000 patients), with a relative odds ratio of 1.33, Rates for surgery (179.0 vs. 124.5/1,000 patients) were also greater for whites for blacks, with a relative odds ratio of 1.53. For the subset with valve disease, the catheterization rate was significantly greater for whites than for blacks (575.4 vs. 432.6 procedures/1,000 patients), with a relative odds ratio of 1.78. Surgical rates were not significantly different (423.8 vs. 354.6 operations/ 1,000 patients). Racial differences for both catheterization and surgery varied widely as a function of geographic region and the level of complexity of the local VA facility. Conclusions. Racial differences in resource utilization exist in a health care system in which economic influences are minimized. The pattern of these differences depends on numerous variables and suggests both biologic and sociocultural factors as underlying causes.
Radiochemical studies on the photofission of thorium

The relative yields of thirteen products resulting from the photofission of ${\mathrm{Th}}^{232}$ have been determined radiochemically. Photofission was induced by a 69-Mev synchrotron bremsstrahlung beam. The photofission yield curve was shown by these data to have two peaks, occurring approximately at nucleon numbers 91 and 138 with values of 6.9 percent. The peak-to-valley ratio was 10 and the half-width of the peaks was 12. Symmetry of the curve about nucleon number of 114.5 indicated the average emission of approximately three neutrons. The results were compared with other photofission data and the yield curves of other fission processes.
The Intra-S Phase Checkpoint Protein Tof1 Collaborates with the Helicase Rrm3 and the F-box Protein Dia2 to Maintain Genome Stability in Saccharomyces cerevisiae*

The intra-S phase checkpoint protein complex Tof1/Csm3 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae antagonizes Rrm3 helicase to modulate replication fork arrest not only at the replication termini of rDNA but also at strong nonhistone protein binding sites throughout the genome. We investigated whether these checkpoint proteins acted either antagonistically or synergistically with Rrm3 in mediating other important functions such as maintenance of genome stability. High retromobility of a normally quiescent retrovirus-like transposable element Ty1 of S. cerevisiae is a form of genome instability, because the transposition events induce mutations. We measured the transposition of Ty1 in various genetic backgrounds and discovered that Tof1 suppressed excessive retromobility in collaboration with either Rrm3 or the F-box protein Dia2. Although both Rrm3 and Dia2 are believed to facilitate fork movement, fork stalling at DNA-protein complexes did not appear to be a major contributor to enhancement of retromobility. Absence of the aforementioned proteins either individually or in pair-wise combinations caused karyotype changes as revealed by the altered migrations of the individual chromosomes in pulsed field gels. The mobility changes were RNase H-resistant and therefore, unlikely to have been caused by extensive R loop formation. These mutations also resulted in alterations of telomere lengths. However, the latter changes could not fully account for the magnitude of the observed karyotypic alterations. We conclude that unlike other checkpoint proteins that are known to be required for elevated retromobility, Tof1 suppressed high frequency retrotransposition and maintained karyotype stability in collaboration with the aforementioned proteins.
Late Holocene aeolian activity in the Cimarron River valley of west¿central Oklahoma

Abstract This investigation uses a multidisciplinary approach including geomorphic surface mapping, soil stratigraphic analysis, radiocarbon dating and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating to investigate the chronology of soil formation and aeolian activation periods recorded in ridge dune deposits as well as the spatial variability of aeolian processes during active aeolian episodes. This study shows that aeolian landforms superimposed on fluvial terraces adjacent to the Cimarron River in southeastern Major County and northwestern Kingfisher County, Oklahoma are the product of distinct late Holocene climatic conditions, in which periods of dune activity are episodic and accumulation of sediments is relatively rapid. Soil-forming processes operated on the stabilized dunes during intervening periods. We also demonstrate that the synthesis of geomorphic techniques, soil stratigraphy, 14C dating and OSL dating can provide complimentary and high-resolution data about aeolian activity in the Southern Plains.
A NEW OCCURRENCE OF THE “HYDROZOAN” RADIOTRABECULOPORA RETICULATA FAN, RIGBY, AND ZHANG, 1991 IN THE PERMIAN OF CALIFORNIA

Examples of the “hydrozoan” Radiotrabeculopora reticulata Fan, Rigby, and Zhang, 1991 have been recently recovered from Lower Permian rocks in the Inyo Mountains, Owens Valley area, of east-central California by G. Linder and C. Stevens. That genus and species were originally described from the Middle Permian (Leonardian-Lower Guadalupian) Maokou Formation from western Hubei, China, by Fan et al. (1991). This the first report of the genus and species from North America. The fossils were collected from Unit 7 of the Owens Valley Group, U.S. Geological Survey Map I-1932 (Stone et al., 1989). This unit represents a carbonate buildup composed of wackestones, packstones, and grainstones that formed on an uplift composed of an Upper Carboniferous-lowermost Permian deepwater limestone sequence. Basinward, this unit lenses into rocks that accumulated in deeper water. Fossils from Unit 7, in order of abundance, include pelmatozoan parts, epimastoporid and phylloid algae, and fusulinids. Tubiphytes Maslov, 1956, bryozoans, and the “hydrozoans” are much less common, and brachiopods and corals are rare. Algae are abundant throughout the section, becoming dominant in the upper part, where they are associated with the “hydrozoans.” The thickness of the buildup from which the “hydrozoans” were collected ranges up to at least 180 m, the maximum thickness observed in the general area. Specifically the “hydrozoans” were collected from the central part of the westernmost outcrop of Unit 7, near its contact with alluvium, at an elevation of about 2,160 m (7,100 feet), north of Conglomerate Mesa, in the Ubehebe Peak 15′ Quadrangle, Inyo County, California (Fig. 1). Fusulinids collected from the same locality include only Chalaroschwagerina Skinner and Wilde, 1965 (Fig. 2.5–2.8), indicating a late Wolfcampian age for the occurrence. Figure 1 —Index map to the fossil locality in the Inyo Mountains, from which the Wolfcampian “hydrozoans” reported here were collected. Base …
Synthesis and Study in 23 Metal-La-Cu-O Systems

Abstract High-pressure, high-temperature synthesis of LaCuO 3 , the substituted series La 1- x M x CuO 3 , where M = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Pb, Sc, Y, Pr, Nd, TI, Sb, Bi, Ti, Zr, or Ce, and LaCu 1- x M 1 x O 3 , where M 1 = Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, Ag, or TI, was undertaken. The rhombohedrally distorted perovskite structure of LaCuO 3 was found to persist in the following systems, where the number in parentheses is the maximum x : Ag (1.0), Ba (0.8), Bi (0.6), Ca (0.8), Ce (0.4), Co (1.0), Cr (0.2), Fe (0.2), Mg (0.8), Nd (0.4), Ni (1.0), Pr (0.4), Sb (0.2), Sc (0.2), Sr (0.8), Ti (0.1), Zr (0.8). This structure was not found with Y, Pb, or Zn at any level of substitution, although Zn did permit formation of this structure when Ni was used instead of Cu. This structure was detected at the x = 0.6 level with TI, but not at x = 0.4 or 0.8. Samples were tested for superconductivity effects by magnetic susceptibility, without positive results. The synthesis stability region of P-T space for LaCuO 3 was found to be above 1200°C at pressures above 5 GPa. Stability of LaCuO 3 at ambient pressure was studied by differential thermal analysis, and an endothermic phase change to a tetragonal structure was noted around 400°C. The relationship of these results to the high-temperature superconducting copper oxide ceramics is discussed.
Harm to females increases with male body size in Drosophila melanogaster

Previous studies indicate that female Drosophila melanogaster are harmed by their mates through copulation. Here, we demonstrate that the harm that males inflict upon females increases with male size. Specifically, both the lifespan and egg-production rate of females decreased significantly as an increasing function of the body size of their mates. Consequently, females mating with larger males had lower lifetime fitness. The detrimental effect of male size on female longevity was not mediated by male effects on female fecundity, egg-production rate or female-remating behaviour. Similarly, the influence of male size on female lifetime fecundity was independent of the male-size effect on female longevity. There was no relationship between female size and female resistance to male harm. Thus, although increasing male body size is known to enhance male mating success, it has a detrimental effect on the direct fitness of their mates. Our results indicate that this harm is a pleiotropic effect of some other selected function and not an adaptation. To the extent that females prefer to mate with larger males, this choice is harmful, a pattern that is consistent with the theory of sexually antagonistic coevolution.
Relationship of Heliothis zea predators, parasitoids and entomopathogens to canopy development in soybean as affected by Heterodera glycines and weeds

The influence of canopy development in soybean on the survival of corn earworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), egg and larval stages and population dynamics of arthropod fauna were evaluated in field trials during 1986–88 in eastern North Carolina. Soybean canopy size decreased as soybean cyst nematode, Heterodera glycines Ichinohe (Nematoda: Heteroderidae), initial population densities increased. Plant species composition of the soybean canopy was affected by weed population densities. Mortality of H. zea larvae due to parasitism and infection with entomopathogens was greater in closed canopy and (or) weedy soybeans than in very open and (or) weed free soybeans. Predation and parasitism of corn earworm eggs were similar across nematode and weed density treatments. Natural enemy populations increased to highest levels during July in closed canopy and (or) weedy soybeans, coinciding with availability of largest prey population reservoirs. A delay in colonization of very open and (or) weed free soybeans by beneficial arthropods until mid to late August allowed greater H. zea larval survival than in closed canopy and (or) weedy soybeans. Arthropod species richness was generally greatest in closed canopy and (or) weedy soybeans during mid to late July, with differences becoming nonsignificant in August and early September. Mean and maximum ambient temperatures were higher and relative humidities lower in open canopy than in closed canopy plots. These conditions were less favorable for development of pathogens and natural enemies.
Inhibition of DNA alkylation damage with inorganic salts.

Human exposure to alkylating agents metabolized from tobacco- and food-borne carcinogens occurs regularly. Dietary inorganic compounds such as selenium and vanadium have been shown previously to provide chemoprotective benefits in rat and human trials. Here, we present biochemical data on the ability of inorganic compounds to protect DNA from alkylation damage. An enzyme cleavage assay is used to observe alkylated DNA. Simple salts (e.g., NaCl or NiCl2) did not prevent DNA alkylation, whereas anionic oxo species (e.g., Na2SeO4 or Na3VO4) did inhibit alkylation. We propose that these oxo species behave as nucleophilic targets for the electrophilic alkylating agents, thereby preventing DNA damage.
Preparation of the metastable high pressure γ-R2S3 phase (REr, Tm, Yb and Lu) by mechanical milling

The preparation of the metastable crystalline high pressure polymorphs of R 2 S 3 , where R≡Er, Tm, Yb and Lu, was investigated at room temperature by mechanical milling (MM). For Er 2 S 3 and Yb 2 S 3 the pure metastable high pressure γ-phases were obtained by MM whereas for the Tm 2 S 3 and Lu 2 S 3 samples the metastable high pressure γ-phases coexisted with the corresponding equilibrium ambient polymorphic phase.
The effect of source and sink thermal resistance on thermoelectric generator performance

A static analysis of the thermoelectric generator is necessary in order to specify the electrical loading condition for maximum energy conversion efficiency and to determine the corresponding efficiency. Ioffe has done this for the simple case of a single p-n junction thermocouple, and his analysis has been extended to include the effect of temperature dependent parameters by Borrego, Lyden, and Blair.1,2 Harman has considered a cascade generator and has shown how its design can be optimized.3
An Inexpensive Method for Programming Stimuli Using Magnetic Tape

Apparatus for encoding and decoding stimuli using magnetic tape is described. The decoder is a frequency specific audio switch constructed from a five channel resonant reed relay; the encoder is a tape recorder. This apparatus allows the advantages of magnetic tape yet is inexpensive to construct.
Progression of Electroclinical Changes in Complex Partial Status Epilepticus: Filling in the Blanks

Treiman has described five electroclinical stages through which the EEG progresses during generalized convulsive status epilepticus (GCSE). The EEG can show similar patterns in patients with complex partial status epilepticus (CPSE), but there is no agreement as to whether the different patterns seen in the human EEG result from a similar orderly progression through similar stages. We report the case of a patient in CPSE whose EEG passed progressively through two of the earlier stages described by Treiman. This case of EEG progression in a single patient suggests that CPSE can progress through stages analogous to those in GCSE.
Application of the three-dimensional triangular-prism hpq adaptive finite element to plate and shell analysis

Abstract The paper presents some non-standard information on the algorithm of a three-dimensional hpq triangular-prism finite element as applied in the presented research, including the shape functions definition, definitions of the geometry and displacement field, and a description of the numerical integration. The main part of the paper describes methodology and results of the numerical research on application of the element to plate and shell analysis. It contains justification of three plate and shell examples as well as the results of numerical tests, including such aspects as limits of the solution, locking phenomena, h-, p- and q-convergence, influence of mesh anisotrophy, numerical stability, etc.
Integration of Taguchi's Method and Particle Swarm Optimization for Electromagnetic Global Optimization

In this study, four optimization techniques, Taguchi's method [1], classical particle swarm optimization (PSO) [2], OA-PSO, and PSO-Taguchi's method, are investigated for performance comparison. To compare the performance of different approaches, test functions and a ten-element, unequally-spaced linear array are used as examples. Since random values are used in PSO-based approaches, 200 independent runs are conducted in each approach for statistical analysis. Numerical results and statistical analysis show that Taguchi's method can reach the global optimum quicker than other approaches; OA-PSO is more robust than classical PSO. (6 pages)
Diffusion of innovation: communicating to improve training and employee development

Diffusion of innovation is used to measure and assess change. Understanding the communication channel within diffusion of innovation can help human resource management representatives manage change. This study uses a mixed methodology to identify and compare the goals, expectations, and perceived outcomes stakeholders held for the Faculty Development Institute (FDI). They had similar expectations for the outcomes during and/or immediately following the initial workshop, but differed in their expectations of the long-term outcomes.
Reduced-Coordinate Presentation of the Emission of Thermal Radiation by Solids

A reduced-coordinate presentation is devised for the emission of thermal radiation by solid materials. When experimental data are plotted on the reduced coordinates, a temperature-independent curve is obtained and the data for each substance needs only a single parameter for full description. These results may be used to predict emittance of sufficient accuracy for estimation purposes with a minimum number of experimental observations.
Mouse lung damage from exposure to 30 khz ultrasound

Two hundred and seventy mice were evaluated at three exposure durations (5, 10 and 20 min) and at six peak acoustic pressure levels (0, 65, 80, 87, 100 and 145 kPa) with 15 mice per exposure condition, at an ultrasonic frequency of 30 kHz modulated at 120 Hz. Threshold acoustic pressure levels for hemorrhage in mouse lung exposed for the three exposure durations appear to be in the range of 100 kPa. There did not appear to be a strong dependency on exposure duration. When compared to a study with mice in the megahertz frequency range (Child et al. 1990), it appeared that the threshold values followed a square root of frequency dependency, suggesting that the concept of the Mechanical Index (AIUM/NEMA, 1992), although developed for pulsed ultrasound conditions, may be extended to frequencies well below the diagnostic ultrasound frequency range.
Management of Complications of Dupuytren Contracture

This evidence-based article discusses the current management options of Dupuytren disease and strategies to avoid and manage any potential complications. Treatment options include fasciectomy, needle fasciotomy/aponeurotomy, and collagenase injection. Complications include digital nerve and artery injury, flexor tendon injury, skin fissures and wound healing complications, hematoma, infection, flare reaction/complex regional pain syndrome, and recurrence. Complication rates, prevention, and management differ with each treatment modality. A detailed understanding of each of these options allows hand surgeons to select the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
An Investigation of the Relationship Between Actual and Apparent Gasoline Thickness in a Uniform Sand Aquifer

A common effort involved in the remediation of contamination by petroleum hydrocarbons in porous media is the monitoring and volume estimation of the immiscible hydrocarbon fluid. The apparent free product thickness indicated by a standard monitoring well is typically much greater than the actual free product thickness in the surrounding soil. This results in significant errors in estimates of drainable fluid (product) volume, which in turn leads to inaccuracies (i.e., over design, improper pump sizing, etc.) with remediation system design. An equation to predict actual thickness was developed using heterogeneous fluid flow mechanics and hydrostatics. This equation is: tg= t(l – Sg) - ha, where tg= actual formation free product thickness, t = apparent (well bore product) thickness, Sg= specific gravity of petroleum hydrocarbon (gasoline in this research), and ha= distance between the ground-water table and the free product in the formation. The developed theory was compared to data collected from a physical model which simulated field conditions. The theory was used to estimate product thickness in the model, and then these estimates were statistically tested for accuracy. The theoretical slope, (1 – Sg), was not statistically different from the regression slope at test levels of α= 0.05 and α= 0.01, while the theoretical intercept (ha) was statistically different at α– 0.05 and α– 0.01. The discrepancy between the theoretical intercept and the regression intercept was probably due to either an incorrect assumption that ha= hc (hc= average wetting capillary rise), or an incorrect laboratory measurement of hc. The effects of water-table fluctuations were also studied. A rising water table caused a decrease in apparent thickness and an increase in actual thickness, and vice versa. No theoretical equation was developed for the effects of water-table fluctuations, but it was reasoned that hysteresis of the saturation curve and adsorption were the primary factors in the observed trends. Finally, the developed theoretical equation was compared to the results of previously published predictive methods and experiments. The comparison was made by calculating percent error and using a chi-square statistic. The developed theory was found to be the best predictor of actual product thickness for both laboratory data sets used.
Catalytic decomposition of toluene using a biomass derived catalyst

Abstract Pine bark biochar generated by slow pyrolysis (950 °C) was used as a low cost catalyst to decompose toluene (model tar compound) over a temperature range of 600–900 °C. Relative to thermal cracking, fractional toluene conversion increased from 13 to 94% when increasing temperatures from 600 to 900 °C (2500 ppmv, SV = 0.76 s− 1, 3.8 g catalyst) and Arrhenius analysis indicated an activation energy of 91 kJ/mol, comparable to that of synthetic catalysts (e.g., 80.24 kJ/mol for Ni/Mayenite and 196 kJ/mol for olivine) and lower than that of thermal cracking (356 kJ/mol). The reaction rate for toluene decomposition increased linearly from 550 to 700 °C with a concentration range of 1000–4600 ppmv indicating a first order rate law with respect to toluene. Benzene was detected as a potential intermediate in the decomposition of toluene with selectivity ranging from 0 to 28% at temperatures from 600 to 900 °C respectively, and its formation increased with increasing toluene conversion. Toluene conversion ranged between 40 and 95% with benzene selectivity from 0 to 20% at 800 °C during catalyst longevity studies of 6 days. These results indicate that biochar generated from slow pyrolysis of pine bark at high temperature can be used as a low cost catalyst for tar removal from syngas. However, the tar removal rates using the biochar catalyst were lower than that of olivine and nickel based catalysts indicating the need to increase catalytic activity.
Photonic Integrated Circuits for Communications, Signal Processing, and Computing Applications

This paper describes PICs realized on semiconductor platforms (InP, Si, etc) to support future communication and computing systems integrated on a chip. Integration of lasers, mux/demux, micro-resonators, optical switches will be described.
Isolation and characterization of cDNA from renal tubular epithelium encoding murine Rantes

Isolation and characterization of cDNA from renal tubular epithelium encoding murine Rantes. We have been interested in identifying proinflammatory molecules which might play a role in attracting monocytes and T cells to the kidney. Some of the new intercrines are potential candidates. In this report we have isolated cDNA encoding murine Rantes (MuRantes) from renal tubular epithelium (MCT cells). MuRantes is a 91 amino acid member of the -C-C- or intercrine β subgroup of the Scy superfamily. The amino acid sequence for mature MuRantes was deduced from its coding cDNA and was found to be 90% homologous to its mature human counterpart (HuRantes). MCT epithelium expresses a single mRNA transcript for MuRantes of ∼1100 bp. The MuRantes protein could be detected in cell lysates of MCT epithelium by western blotting and in the cytoplasm of MCT cells by immunofluorescence using a polyclonal antibody generated against HuRantes fusion protein. A search protocol using MuRantes-specific primers and cDNA amplification revealed that mRNAs for MuRantes are expressed additionally in syngeneic mesangial cells (MMC cells), whole kidney, liver, and spleen, as well as in nephritogenic antigen-specific CD4 + helper and CD8 + effector T cells. cDNA amplification studies also demonstrated a significant elevation in mRNA transcripts encoding MuRantes in response to the stimulation of MCT epithelium with TNFα and IL-1α in culture, but not with TGFβ, γIFN, or IL-6. Our findings indicate that proximal tubular epithelium is an authentic source of MuRantes, and that transcripts encoding MuRantes are responsive to the modulating influence of paracrine factors having a known role in the development of parenchymal injury.
Antenatal Pharmacokinetics and Placental Transfer of N-Acetylcysteine in Chorioamnionitis for Fetal Neuroprotection

Objective To determine the pharmacokinetics (PK) and placental transfer of intravenous (IV) N -acetylcysteine (NAC) in mothers with a clinical diagnosis of chorioamnionitis (CA) and determine the PK of IV NAC in their infants. Study design In this prospective, double-blind study IV NAC 100 mg/kg/dose or saline was administered within 4 hours of CA diagnosis to pregnant women ≥24 weeks' gestation and then every 6 hours until delivery. Maternal PK and placental transfer were determined with maternal blood and matched maternal and cord venous blood. Neonatal PK estimates were determined from IV NAC (12.5-25 mg/kg/dose) administered every 12 hours for 5 doses. Noncompartmental analyses were performed for maternal and neonatal PK estimates. Results Eleven mothers (5 preterm, 6 near-term) and 12 infants (1 set of twins) received NAC. Maternal clearance (CL) of NAC was faster than in nonpregnant adults, with a terminal elimination half-life of 1.2 ± 0.2 hours. The NAC cord to maternal ratio was 1.4 ± 0.8, suggesting rapid placental transfer and slower rate of fetal CL. Neonatal PK estimates for near-term compared with preterm infants showed a significantly shorter terminal elimination half-life (5.1 vs 7.5 hours, respectively) and greater CL (53.7 vs 45.0 mL/h/kg, respectively). Conclusions Maternal CL and placental transfer of NAC was rapid, with umbilical cord concentrations frequently exceeding maternal concentrations. The administration of NAC to mothers with CA achieves predictable NAC plasma concentrations in the fetus, indicating that antenatal neuroprotection may be possible for these newborns at high risk for neuroinflammation.
Essential hypertension and membrane lithium transport in depressed patients

Na+-Li+ countertransport activity in erythrocytes has previously been reported to be decreased in certain patients with mood disorders, but increased in essential hypertensives and possibly their first-degree relatives. The present investigation examines specific parameters of Na+-Li+ countertransport in relation to both affective disorder and essential hypertension. Depressed patients having a personal or family history of essential hypertension had significantly higher Vmax and fractional lithium release values than did other patients or control subjects. Values of K 1/2 did not differ among the groups. Essential hypertension in experimental subjects or their families may complicate attempts to study human erythrocyte (RBC) lithium transport in depressed patients.
Effects of unsignaled delays of reinforcement on fixed-interval schedule performance

Abstract Key pecking of pigeons was maintained by a fixed-interval (FI) 61-s schedule. The effects of resetting and nonresetting unsignaled delays of reinforcement then were examined. The resetting delay was programmed as a differential-reinforcement-of-other-behavior schedule, and the nonresetting delay as a fixed-time schedule. Three delay durations (0.5, 1 and 10 s) were examined. Overall response rates were decreased by one and 10-s delays and increased by 0.5-s delays. Response patterns changed from positively accelerated to more linear when resetting or nonresetting 10-s delays were imposed, but remained predominantly positively accelerated when resetting and nonresetting 0.5- and 1-s delays were in effect. In general, temporal control, as measured by quarter-life values, changed less than overall response rates when delays of reinforcement were in effect. The response patterns controlled by FI schedules are more resilient to the nominally disruptive effects of delays of reinforcement than are corresponding overall response rates.
Transport of two non-metabolized nucleosides, deoxycytidine and cytosine arabinoside, in a sub-line of the L1210 murine leukemia.

Abstract Transport of cystosine arabinoside and deoxycytidine was examined in a subline of the L1210 murine leukemia unable to metabolize either nucleoside. At 37°, uptake of these nucleosides was unaffected by metabolic inhibitors, but apparently saturable. A cell/medium distribution ratio of 1 was achieved, within 1 min of incubation, except at the highest nucleoside level tested (25 mM). Kinetic studies were mainly carried out at 0°, at which temperature nucleoside uptake was slowed and both saturability and structural specificity of nucleoside transport could readily be demonstrated. Nucleoside exist was non-linear at both 0° and 37°, i.e. a rapid phase of loss was followed by a much slower phase. The fast phase was inhibited by UO22+ at either temperature. At 0°, the rapid phase exit of cytosine arabinoside or deoxycytidine could be inhibited by high intracellular levels of certain other nucleosides indicating that a process with structural specificity and saturability was involved.
Oscillatory pairing of fermions in spin-split traps

As a means of realizing oscillatory pairing between fermions, we study superfluid pairing between two fermion ``spin'' species that are confined to adjustable spin-dependent trapping potentials. Focusing on the one-dimensional limit, we find that with increasing separation between the spin-dependent traps, the fermions exhibit distinct phases, including a fully paired phase, a spin-imbalanced phase with oscillatory pairing, and an unpaired fully spin-polarized phase. We obtain the phase diagram of fermions in such a spin-split trap and discuss signatures of these phases in cold-atom experiments.
Handwritten document age classification based on handwriting styles

Handwriting styles are constantly changing over time. We approach the novel problem of estimating the approximate age of Historical Handwritten Documents using Handwriting styles. This system will have many applications in handwritten document processing engines where specialized processing techniques can be applied based on the estimated age of the document. We propose to learn a distribution over styles across centuries using Topic Models and to apply a classifier over weights learned in order to estimate the approximate age of the documents. We present a comparison of different distance metrics such as Euclidean Distance and Hellinger Distance within this application.
Confirmation of K-Momentum Dark Exciton Vibronic Sidebands Using 13C-Labeled, Highly Enriched (6,5) Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

A detailed knowledge of the manifold of both bright and dark excitons in single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is critical to understanding radiative and nonradiative recombination processes. Exciton–phonon coupling opens up additional absorption and emission channels, some of which may “brighten” the sidebands of optically forbidden (dark) excitonic transitions in optical spectra. In this report, we compare 12C and 13C-labeled SWCNTs that are highly enriched in the (6,5) species to identify both absorptive and emissive vibronic transitions. We find two vibronic sidebands near the bright 1E11 singlet exciton, one absorptive sideband ∼200 meV above, and one emissive sideband ∼140 meV below, the bright singlet exciton. Both sidebands demonstrate a ∼50 cm–1 isotope-induced shift, which is commensurate with exciton–phonon coupling involving phonons of A1′ symmetry (D band, ω ∼ 1330 cm–1). Independent analysis of each sideband indicates that both sidebands arise from the same dark exciton level, which lies a...
The polar lower thermosphere

Abstract The Earth's mesosphere and lower thermosphere are the least explored regions of the Earth's atmosphere. The observations that have been made in this region, however, indicate that it is a dynamically active region, especially the polar lower thermosphere where most of the auroral energy that impacts the Earth's atmosphere is deposited. This energy is redistributed globally by the thermospheric wind system and there are important dynamic, chemical, radiational, and electrodynamic couplings that occur between the lower thermosphere and the middle atmosphere. There are also couplings with the upper thermosphere, ionosphere, and magnetosphere. A brief review of the available observations important for understanding global dynamic processes in the lower thermosphere is given. Results of simulations made with the NCAR thermosphere/ionosphere general circulation model (TIGCM) are presented to illustrate interactions of polar lower thermospheric chemistry and dynamics. The calculations show that major neutral gas constituents' (O2, N2, and O) number densities in the lower thermosphere are influenced primarily by dynamics, whereas the minor neutral constituents of the odd nitrogen system are influenced by both dynamics and chemistry. Furthermore, both major and minor constituent number density changes, as well as temperature changes, have an important influence on the electron number density distributions in the thermosphere. Results of time-dependent simulations with the TIGCM also suggest that a significant amount of NO is generated in the lower thermosphere during disturbed geomagnetic conditions which could be transported to the middle atmosphere. It is important to consider both chemistry and dynamics in determining the transport of constituents between the mesosphere and thermosphere.
Inhibition of gamma-aminobutyric acid release from rat cerebral cortex slices by barbiturate anesthesia.

Amobarbital and pentobarbital anesthesia inhibited the potassium-stimulated, Ca-dependent release of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) from rat cerebral cortex slices during incubation in vitro. Inhibition of GABA release was not found when slices were prepared from rats shortly after they awakened from amobarbital anesthesia. Phenobarbital anesthesia did not affect the release of GABA.
The polity of academic medicine: Evidence-based democracy

The authors consider the empirical data examining relationships between democratic governance and organizational success. There is overwhelming evidence that democratically run organizations excel in key parameters of success, such as business valuation, productivity, responsiveness, innovation, decision making, and worker morale and satisfaction. A review of physician surveys shows that discontent with academic administration is a major contributor to faculty turnover. Other data indicate that the basic concepts justifying autocratic governance of a department are deeply flawed and that autocratic governance is counterproductive. The authors conclude that the democratic governance of academic departments is the only model that is scientifically valid and would greatly enhance all missions of academic medicine in the 21st century.
Greedy Sensor Selection under Channel Uncertainty

Estimation in resource constrained sensor networks where the fusion center selects a fixed-size subset from a pool of available sensors observing the states of a linear dynamical system is considered. With some probability, the communication between a selected sensor and the fusion center may fail. It is shown that when the fusion center employs a Kalman filter and desires to minimize a function of the error covariance matrix, sensor selection under communication uncertainty can be cast as the maximization of a submodular function over uniform matroids. We propose a computationally efficient greedy sensor selection scheme achieving performance within (1 -1/ e ) of the optimal non-adaptive policy. Additionally, we propose an efficient adaptive greedy algorithm which achieves (1-1/e) of the optimal adaptive policy. Structural features of the problem are exploited to reduce the complexity of the greedy selection algorithms. We analyze the complexity and present simulation studies which demonstrate efficacy of the proposed techniques.
Chelation of neurotoxic zinc levels does not improve neurobehavioral outcome after traumatic brain injury

Increases of synaptically released zinc and intracellular accumulation of zinc in hippocampal neurons after traumatic or ischemic brain injury is neurotoxic and chelation of zinc has been shown to reduce neurodegeneration. Although our previous studies showed that zinc chelation in traumatically brain-injured rats correlated with an increase in whole-brain expression of several neuroprotective genes and reduced numbers of apoptotic neurons, the effect on functional outcome has not been determined, and the question of whether this treatment may actually be clinically relevant has not been answered. In the present study, we show that treatment of TBI rats with the zinc chelator calcium EDTA reduces the numbers of injured, Fluoro-Jade-positive neurons in the rat hippocampus 24 h after injury but does not improve neurobehavioral outcome (spatial memory deficits) 2 weeks post-injury. Our data suggest that zinc chelation, despite providing short-term histological neuroprotection, fails to improve long-term functional outcome, perhaps because long-term disruptions in homeostatic levels of zinc adversely influence hippocampus-dependent spatial memory.