cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theory of half‐collision cross sections

Standard Lippmann–Schwinger theory does not apply to decay of metastable or unstable states due to failure of the adiabatic hypothesis. In the Fock–Tani representation, discrete unstable states can be described by state vectors orthogonal to the asymptotic states representing their decay fragments, and a decay/formation interaction is exhibited explicitly as a portion of the total interaction Hamiltonian. This allows a straightforward derivation of a generalized Lippmann–Schwinger “half-collision” differential decay cross section without the need of projection operators. It reduces in first order to the product of a resonance line shape by a Golden Rule matrix element squared. In the general case the line shape is non-Lorentzian and the matrix element factor contains final-state interaction contributions. The exact expression is expected to be applicable to a variety of processes such as predissociation, autoionization, and Auger effect. The derivation employs the van Hove resolvent formalism to exhibit the dependence of the cross section on the complex self energy of the decaying state.
Dendritic Cell Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptor-3 Regulates Th1–Th2 Polarity in Kidney Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury

Dendritic cells (DCs) are central to innate and adaptive immunity of early kidney ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI), and strategies to alter DC function may provide new therapeutic opportunities. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) modulates immunity through binding to its receptors (S1P1–5), and protection from kidney IRI occurs in S1P3-deficient mice. Through a series of experiments we determined that this protective effect was owing in part to differences between S1P3-sufficient and -deficient DCs. Mice lacking S1P3 on bone marrow cells were protected from IRI, and S1P3-deficient DCs displayed an immature phenotype. Wild-type (WT) but not S1P3-deficient DCs injected into mice depleted of DCs prior to kidney IR reconstituted injury. Adoptive transfer (i.e., i.v. injection) of glycolipid (Ag)-loaded WT but not S1P3-deficient DCs into WT mice exacerbated IRI, suggesting that WT but not S1P3-deficient DCs activated NKT cells. Whereas WT DC transfers activated the Th1/IFN-γ pathway, S1P3-deficient DCs activated the Th2/IL-4 pathway, and an IL-4–blocking Ab reversed protection from IRI, supporting the concept that IL-4 mediates the protective effect of S1P3-deficient DCs. Administration of S1P3-deficient DCs 7 d prior to or 3 h after IRI protected mice from IRI and suggests their potential use in cell-based therapy. We conclude that absence of DC S1P3 prevents DC maturation and promotes a Th2/IL-4 response. These findings highlight the importance of DC S1P3 in modulating NKT cell function and IRI and support development of selective S1P3 antagonists for tolerizing DCs for cell-based therapy or for systemic administration for the prevention and treatment of IRI and autoimmune diseases.
Autophagy modulation: a target for cancer treatment development

Purpose Regulation of cellular death is a complex method to maintain cellular homeostasis by protecting against oncogenic development and by recycling damaged cellular debris. Dysregulation of autophagy cellular death is common among a wide range of cancers and presents challenges to current treatment options. This review will evaluate current methods to directly and indirectly modulate autophagy to prevent cancer and to overcome resistance to anticancer therapy.
Black Power, Soft Power: Floyd McKissick, Soul City, and the Death of Moderate Black Republicanism

For a long time, we too have been talking about ... enlisting private enterprise in the solution of our great social problems, about profi ts as the great motive power of our fantastically productive economy. What many of the black militants now are saying, in eff ect, is this: We believe you, and now we want a chance to apply those same principles in our own communities. Our reply should not be to reject this request, but to seize upon it—and to respond to it. —Richard Nixon on Black Enterprise, “Bridges to Human Dignity: A Nationwide Radio Address,” April 25, 1968
Quantitative Assessment of Intrinsic Regional Myocardial Deformation by Doppler Strain Rate Echocardiography in Humans

To the Editor: We have read with interest the recent report of Edvardsen et al1 in which left ventricular regional peak systolic strain values measured by ultrasound were correlated with the corresponding strain data extracted by 3-dimensional tagged MRI. The study showed an overall acceptable agreement between the 2 techniques for several myocardial segments in both normal and pathological myocardium and for both radial and longitudinal deformation. Although the longitudinal deformation parameters measured were in agreement with prior results, the radial values were not. Indeed, in this study, Lagrangian radial strain in the posterior wall of healthy volunteers was measured to be 18±9% and 17±6% by ultrasound and MRI, respectively. However, previously reported studies using standard M-mode echocardiography had found radial maximal systolic Lagrangian strain values of 69±23%.2 The discrepancy between these values and the ones published in the study of Edvarsen et al1 could, in theory, be attributed …
Avian community structure along elevational gradients in the northeastern United States

Breeding birds were censused along four elevational gradients in the Adirondack Mountains, New York, and the Green Mountains, Vermont. The bird communities of the four gradients were basically similar in species composition, richness and amplitude patterns. Three measures of species diversity decreased with increasing elevation. Low-elevation communities contained higher proportions of rare species and the relative abundances conformed to the broken-stick distribution. At higher elevations the communities showed greater dominance and the dominance-diversity curves approached geometric series. The species characteristic of high-elevation communities had the broadest altitudinal distributions. The upper and lower distributional limits of most species were independent of one another except at “ecotones” where marked changes in vegetation structure occurred. On each mountain, slightly more than half of the species’ limits coincided with ecotones. This is a significantly greater proportion than has been found in similar studies of tropical forest bird communities. In further contrast to tropical communities, we found no convincing cases of altitudinal competitive exclusion between species. Interspecific competition in the past seems to have been translated primarily into differences in habitat selection by temperate forest birds. Many of the differences between temperate forest breeding bird communities and tropical ones can be understood in terms of the migratory nature of most of the temperate species and the lower species richness in temperature forests.
Functional Adaptation to Loading of a Single Bone is Neuronally Regulated and Involves Multiple Bones

Regulation of load-induced bone formation is considered a local phenomenon controlled by osteocytes, although it has also been hypothesized that functional adaptation may be neuronally regulated. The aim of this study was to examine bone formation in multiple bones, in response to loading of a single bone, and to determine whether adaptation may be neuronally regulated. Load-induced responses in the left and right ulnae and humeri were determined after loading of the right ulna in male Sprague-Dawley rats (69 ± 16 days). After a single period of loading at −760μe, −2,000μe, or −3,750μe initial peak strain, rats were given calcein to label new bone formation. Bone formation and bone neuropeptide concentrations were determined at 10 days. In one group, temporary neuronal blocking was achieved by perineural anesthesia of the brachial plexus with bupivicaine during loading. We found right ulna loading induces adaptive responses in other bones in both thoracic limbs when compared to sham controls, and that neuronal blocking during loading abrogated bone formation in the loaded ulna and other thoracic limb bones. Skeletal adaptation was more evident in distal long bones, when compared with proximal long bones. We also found that the single period of loading modulated bone neuropeptide concentrations persistently for 10 days. We conclude that functional adaptation to loading of a single bone in young rapidly growing rats is neuronally regulated and involves multiple bones. Persistent changes in bone neuropeptide concentrations after a single loading period suggest that plasticity exists in the innervation of bone.
Carcass composition, feed intake, and feed efficiency following long-term selection for four-week body weight in Japanese quail.

Abstract A study was conducted to determine BW, feed intake, feed efficiency, and carcass composition changes following 51 generations of selection for high 4-wk BW in Japanese quail. Quail lines utilized were the P line selected for high 4-wk BW on a normal 28% CP diet and the unselected base population (C line) from which the P line originated. Body weight, feed intake, and feed efficiency data were collected daily from 1 to 28 days, whereas percentage carcass water, ash, protein, and total lipid data were obtained at 0, 4, 7, 10, 14, 21, 28, 42, and 56 days of age. Body weights of P line quail were significantly (P Carcass composition determinations revealed significant (P
Autos over Rails: How US Business Supplanted the British in Brazil, 1910–28

The dynamics of Brazil's transportation sector early in this century reveal much about how and why US industries conquered the Brazilian market and established a sound basis for investment. Especially during the 1920s, US companies responded to the transportation needs of Brazil's rapidly growing economy and won the major share of its automobile and truck markets. This was crucial because of the automobile's central role as a leading sector of the world's economy during this period. Sales and then direct investment by US firms in automobile assembly plants placed US business on a more secure foundation than British investment, prominent in a sector losing the vitality exhibited in the nineteenth century: railroads. Rail systems slowed their extension into the immense Brazilian interior while the automobile flourished, promoted by a powerful Brazilian lobby for automobilismo reinforced by efforts of US business and government. This process illustrates how the Brazilians' interpretation of their economic needs coincided with pressures exerted by US industry to create a permanent US presence within Brazil's economy. How Henry Ford replaced Herbert Spencer as the foremost symbol of industrialism in early twentieth century Brazil sheds light on the personal and political dynamics of international business competition.1Rapid economic growth in the early twentieth century thrust a host of new local and regional demands upon Brazil's woefully inadequate transportation sector. Capital formation rose without interruption from 1901 onwards and reached very high levels immediately prior to World War I; more than 11,000 industrial firms producing over 67% of the economy's 1920 industrial output came into being between 1900 and 1920.
Barriers and facilitators of medication reconciliation processes for recently discharged patients from community pharmacists' perspectives.

Abstract Background Community pharmacists play a vital part in reconciling medications for patients transitioning from hospital to community care, yet their roles have not been fully examined in the extant literature. Objectives The objectives of this study were to: 1) examine the barriers and facilitators community pharmacists face when reconciling medications for recently discharged patients; and 2) identify pharmacists' preferred content and modes of information transfer regarding updated medication information for recently discharged patients. Methods Community pharmacists were purposively and conveniently sampled from the Wisconsin (U.S. state) pharmacist-based research network, Pharmacy Practice Enhancement and Action Research Link (PEARL Rx). Community pharmacists were interviewed face-to-face, and transcriptions from audio recordings were analyzed using directed content analysis. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) guided the development of questions for the semi-structured interviews. Results Interviewed community pharmacists ( N = 10) described the medication reconciliation process to be difficult and time-consuming for recently discharged patients. In the context of the TPB, more barriers than facilitators of reconciling medications were revealed. Themes were categorized as organizational and individual-level themes. Major organizational-level factors affecting the medication reconciliation process included: pharmacy resources, discharge communication, and hospital resources. Major individual-level factors affecting the medication reconciliation process included: pharmacists' perceived responsibility, relationships, patient perception of pharmacist, and patient characteristics. Interviewed pharmacists consistently responded that several pieces of information items would be helpful when reconciling medications for recently discharged patients, including the hospital medication discharge list and stop-orders for discontinued medications. Conclusions The TPB was useful for identifying barriers and facilitators of medication reconciliation for recently discharged patients from community pharmacists' perspectives. The elucidation of these specific facilitators and barriers suggest promising avenues for future research interventions to improve exchange of medication information between the community pharmacy, hospitals, and patients.
Properties of Phosphorus-Doped Poly-SiGe Films for Microelectromechanical System Applications

P-doped SiGe films were deposited and characterized in terms of their electrical and mechanical properties. Si 1-x Ge x with x = 0.6-0.8 was deposited with deposition rates of 70-100 A/min at 450-550°C. Films with Ge content of 600°C, the stress changed to 100-200 MPa tensile due to the intrinsic stress relief and the thermal expansion difference between the films and the silicon substrate. In a cantilevered beam, the stress gradient through the film thickness made the as-deposited films curl downward. The stress could be reduced with appropriate annealing. With optimized deposition and annealing conditions, n-type SiGe microelectromechanical systems structures were fabricated to show feasibility of their integration with underlying multilayer poly-Si microstructures.
An Analysis of Availability Distributions in Condor

In this article, we investigate the dynamics exhibited by the production Condor pool at the University of Wisconsin with the goal of understanding its distributional properties. Condor is a cycle-harvesting service originally designed to launch and control "guest" user jobs (in batch mode) on idle workstations. Since its inception in 1985, however, it has expanded to include the ability to run in dedicated mode on clusters, to "glide in" to systems that are not strictly dedicated to Condor, and to "flock" jobs from one site to another based on pre-determined service level agreements (SLAs). Thus it has developed from an enterprise-wide desktop system into a full-fledged global computing infrastructure over its lifetime.
Tolterodine–Warfarin Drug Interaction

OBJECTIVE:To report two cases of warfarin therapy in which the addition of tolterodine resulted in prolonged international normalized ratios (INRs).CASE SUMMARY:Two patients, each receiving warfarin for stroke prophylaxis in association with chronic atrial fibrillation, developed adverse effects after the initiation of tolterodine for urinary disorders. Other medications for concurrent medical diagnoses had remained unchanged. One patient had an episode of prostatitis, which was treated with levofloxacin immediately prior to tolterodine initiation. The warfarin dosage had remained constant for many weeks in both patients prior to and during the tolterodine trials. In each patient, the initiation of tolterodine was associated with a significant increase in the patient's INR measured 10–14 days later. Thus, tolterodine was ineffective in both patients and was discontinued one to two days before the elevated INRs were determined during routine clinic visits. INRs determined approximately two weeks after tolt...
Risk factors for pulmonary complications in the postoperative head and neck surgery patient

Background Pulmonary complications are a primary source of increased cost and morbidity in surgically treated head and neck cancer patients. This study investigates potential risk factors related to postoperative pulmonary complications (pneumonia, adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and prolonged mechanical ventilation) in head and neck cancer patients. Methods. Data from 144 major head and neck procedures performed at the University of Washington between 1985 and 1991 were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to evaluate preoperative and perioperative variables identified as potential risk factors for postoperative pulmonary complications. Results. Fifteen percent of patients had a postoperative pulmonary complication, (n = 21: 18 postoperative pneumonia; 2 ARDS; and 4 prolonged ventilation). The most common pneumonia pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus (62%). Univariate analysis identified smoking and weight loss as significant factors associated with pulmonary complications. The variables preoperative blood urea nitrogen, white blood cell count, and operative chest flap closure all approached but did not reach significance. Multivariate analysis of a subgroup of patients identified smoking history and perioperative antibiotic choice as the only independently significant variables. Conclusions. Patient smoking history was the primary variable related to postoperative pulmonary problems, with evidence of increasing risk with increased exposure. Other variables added only limited additional risk association information after multivariate analysis.
Robotic tumbling locomotion

In this paper we introduce tumbling, a relatively unexplored method of locomotion in which the robot utilizes net body rotations while ambulating. Tumbling for mobile robots is attractive in that it can enable increased mobility on smaller scales, often while reducing hardware requirements. As motivation for this interesting form of locomotion we provide a geometric analysis of a vertical step climbing task, one that tumbling robots perform well with respect to their size and complexity. In addition to our analysis we present results of a hardware experiment with a tumbling robot performing the task for varying combinations of frictional coefficients at the step and ground.
Intelligent automated control of life support systems using proportional representations

Effective automatic control of Advanced Life Support Systems (ALSS) is a crucial component of space exploration. An ALSS is a coupled dynamical system which can be extremely sensitive and difficult to predict. As a result, such systems can be difficult to control using deliberative and deterministic methods. We investigate the performance of two machine learning algorithms, a genetic algorithm (GA) and a stochastic hill-climber (SH), on the problem of learning how to control an ALSS, and compare the impact of two different types of problem representations on the performance of both algorithms. We perform experiments on three ALSS optimization problems using five strategies with multiple variations of a proportional representation for a total of 120 experiments. Results indicate that although a proportional representation can effectively boost GA performance, it does not necessarily have the same effect on other algorithms such as SH. Results also support previous conclusions that multivector control strategies are an effective method for control of coupled dynamical systems.
FluoroSim: a visual problem-solving environment for fluorescence microscopy

Fluorescence microscopy provides a powerful method for localization of structures in biological specimens. However, aspects of the image formation process such as noise and blur from the microscope's point-spread function combine to produce an unintuitive image transformation on the true structure of the fluorescing molecules in the specimen, hindering qualitative and quantitative analysis of even simple structures in unprocessed images. We introduce FluoroSim, an interactive fluorescence microscope simulator that can be used to train scientists who use fluorescence microscopy to understand the artifacts that arise from the image formation process, to determine the appropriateness of fluorescence microscopy as an imaging modality in an experiment, and to test and refine hypotheses of model specimens by comparing the output of the simulator to experimental data. FluoroSim renders synthetic fluorescence images from arbitrary geometric models represented as triangle meshes. We describe three rendering algorithms on graphics processing units for computing the convolution of the specimen model with a microscope's point-spread function and report on their performance. We also discuss several cases where the microscope simulator has been used to solve real problems in biology.
Mid-infrared wavelength conversion in silicon waveguides using ultracompact telecom-band-derived pump source

Using probe and pump waves derived from ultra-compact telecom optical fibre sources, scientists perform four-wave mixing in silicon waveguides in the spectral region beyond 2 µm, achieving mid-infrared wavelength generation of 2388 nm over a bandwidth of 630 nm on a silicon chip.
Endogenous mucosal antiviral factors of the oral cavity.

The oral cavity represents a unique site for mucosal transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Unlike other mucosal sites, the oral cavity is rarely a site of HIV transmission despite detectable virus in saliva and oropharyngeal tissues of infected persons. One reason for this apparent paradox is the presence of endogenous mucosal antiviral factors. Innate inhibitory molecules, such as virus-specific antibodies, mucins, thrombospondin, and soluble proteins, have been identified and partially characterized from saliva. A recent addition to the growing list is secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), an ∼12-kDa non-glycosylated protein found in serous secretions. Physiologic concentrations of SLPI potently protect adherent monocytes and activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells against HIV-1 infection. SLPI levels in saliva and semen but not breast milk approximate levels required for inhibition in vitro. Characterization of SLPI and other endogenous antiviral molecules may enhance our understanding of factors influencing mucosal HIV-1 transmission.
A note on the angular dispersion of a fluid line element in isotropic turbulence

The mean-square angular displacement of a fluid material line element is expressed as an integral of the corresponding angular velocity in material coordinates, with forms like those in Taylor's (1921) linear displacement analysis. Measurements using a hydrogen-bubble tracer in isotropic turbulence show that the mean-square angular velocity of a line is of the same order of magnitude as the mean-square vorticity, and that its ‘Lagrangian’ integral time scale is of the order of the inverse of the r.m.s. vorticity. The angular velocity of a line element is also formulated in spatial co-ordinates. Finally, the connexion between angular dispersion and the approach toward isotropy is pointed out.
Simulation models of ecological economics developed with energy language methods

The energy-systems language method of modelling and simula tion, because of its energy con strained rules, is a means for trans ferring homologous concepts be tween levels of the hierarchies of nature. Mathematics of self-organi zation may justify "emulation" as the simulation of systems overview without details. Here, these methods are applied to the new fields of "ecological economics" and "ecological engineering." Since the vitality of national economies depends on the symbiotic coupling of environmental resources and human economic behavior, the energy language is adapted to develop overview models of nations relevant to public policies. An overview model of a developing nation is given as an example with simulations for alternative policies. Maximum economic vitality was obtained with trade for external resources, but ultimate economic carrying capacity and standard of living was determined by indige nous resources, optimum utilization and absence of foreign debt.
Climatic origins predict variation in photoprotective leaf pigments in response to drought and low temperatures in live oaks (Quercus series Virentes).

Climate is a major selective force in nature. Exploring patterns of inter- and intraspecific genetic variation in functional traits may explain how species have evolved and may continue evolving under future climate change. Photoprotective pigments play an important role in short-term responses to climate stress in plants but knowledge of their long-term role in adaptive processes is lacking. In this study, our goal was to determine how photoprotective mechanisms, morphological traits and their plasticity have evolved in live oaks (Quercus series Virentes) in response to different climatic conditions. For this purpose, seedlings originating from 11 populations from four live oak species (Quercus virginiana, Q. geminata, Q. fusiformis and Q. oleoides) were grown under contrasting common environmental conditions of temperature (tropical vs temperate) and water availability (droughted vs well-watered). Xanthophyll cycle pigments, anthocyanin accumulation, chlorophyll fluorescence parameter s and leaf anatomical traits were measured. Seedlings originating from more mesic source populations of Q. oleoides and Q. fusiformis increased the xanthophyll de-epoxidation state under water-limiting conditions and showed higher phenotypic plasticity for this trait, suggesting adaptation to local climate. Likewise, seedlings originating from warmer climates had higher anthocyanin concentration in leaves under cold winter conditions but not higher de-epoxidation state. Overall, our findings suggest that (i) climate has been a key factor in shaping species and population differences in stress tolerance for live oaks, (ii) anthocyanins are used under cold stress in species with limited freezing tolerance and (iii) xanthophyll cycle pigments are used when photoprotection under drought conditions is needed.
Model for the combined effects of temperature, initial pH, sodium chloride and sodium nitrite concentrations on anaerobic growth of Shigella flexneri

A fractional factorial design was used to measure the effects and interactions of temperature (12-37 degrees C), initial pH (5.5-7.5), NaCl (0.5-4.0%) and NaNO2 (0-1000 ppm) on the anaerobic growth kinetics of Shigella flexneri in Brain-Heart Infusion broth. Anaerobic conditions were established by flushing the culture flasks with N2. A total of 375 cultures representing 124 variable combinations were analyzed, with growth curves being generated using the Gompertz equation. Growth rates decreased with decreasing temperature, decreasing pH and increasing NaCl level. NaNO2 in combination with low temperature, low pH and high NaCl content effectively inhibited S. flexneri. Response surface analysis was used to obtain models for estimating the growth of S. flexneri in terms of temperature, initial pH, and NaCl and NaNO2 concentrations. A third-order equation using the natural logarithm transformations for the Gompertz B and M terms gave reasonable estimates of bacterial growth in response to any combination of the variables studied within the specified ranges.
“Paradox Lost”: Skeletal Ontogeny of Indostomus paradoxus and Its Significance for the Phylogenetic Relationships of Indostomidae (Teleostei, Gasterosteiformes)

Abstract How wilt thou reason with them, how refute Their idolisms, traditions, paradoxes? John Milton, Paradise Regained, 1671 On the Use of Ichthyology Utility will always be found to depend more on the degree of attention to any subject connected with science, than on the nature of the subject itself; yet it is a common remark that this, or that, is important or frivilous, according as we happen to be acquainted with it. When we find any branch of science regarded as useless, we may be assured that, contrary to ordinary expectation, it will prove the most productive field we can enter. Science, indeed, can only be useful where it has been cultivated, and its principles worked out; practical results will then follow in proportion to the pains taken to develop them. John McClelland (1839: 457) On the basis of an ontogenetic series of Indostomus paradoxus, we test characters that have been proposed for the phylogenetic placement of this enigmatic taxon. Contrary to previous authors, we found that the body...
Business Social Responsibility: Mortgage and Credit Marketing in Low-Income Communities

Increasingly, banks and other lending institutions have come under fire for failing to market their credit services adequately in lower-to-moderate income communities. An important dimension of the ongoing debate about the responsibility of banks centers on recently released federal study which reveal the existence of significant disparities in lending and marketing of credit and mortgage services to low-to-moderate income and minority communities. In this connection, I would seek to verify this assertion by analyzing the federal report and other available data. While a large number of studies have examined the phenomenal inequity that characterize marketing and lending of credit services in lower income communities, no studies have examined the underlying factors or the benefits of a proactive compliance policy. This article will discuss these factors from the Legislative, Industrial and Consumer perspectives and provide some insights and examples of proactive compliance policy with the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 and the Financial Institution Recovery Reporting and Enforcement Act of 1989 (CRA/FIRREA).
Editorial: Reproducibility in Research: A Cautionary Tale and Lessons Not Learned

The 1970s and 1980s were a transformative period for neuroendocrine research. During these 2 decades, many of the hypothalamic peptides regulating pituitary hormone secretion were identified and the field exploded with studies characterizing the spectrum of their biological activities. In the race to these exciting discoveries, discordant results were published regarding the central actions of the newly discovered GH-releasing factor (GRF). Two groups reported a biphasic effect of central administration of human GRF with low doses suppressing and high doses stimulating GH release in rats (1, 2). In contrast, a third group reported that administration of both low and high doses of human GRF inhibited GH secretion (3). Through meticulous scientific detective work, the source of the discrepancy was uncovered and, in the best scientific tradition, promptly published (4). Chemical characterization of the peptide that produced GH inhibition at all doses demonstrated that the putative GRF peptide consisted predominantly of corticotropin-releasing factor. Furthermore, use of new GRF samples reproduced the previously reported stimulatory effect on GH. Although how the original sample became contaminated is not known (4, 5), the source of this error is irrelevant for the purpose of scientific progress: the truth was discovered and revealed.
Abstract 18141: Is There Systolic Myocardial Mechanical Dysfunction in Patients With Different Degrees of Diastolic Dysfunction and Normal Ejection Fraction?

Introduction: Diastolic dysfunction has been characterized in relation to the relaxation and compliance properties of the left ventricle; limited information exists regarding its relationship to systolic function as assessed by deformation imaging. Objectives: To determine if there is left ventricular systolic dysfunction detected by global longitudinal strain (GLS) measured by two dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis with different degrees of diastolic dysfunction and normal ejection fraction (EF). Methods: Consecutive biopsy-proven AL patients with preserved EF (≥ 55%) who had a comprehensive echocardiogram performed and strain analysis were included. Cohort was divided into 5 groups according to the different grades of diastolic dysfunction: Group 0: normal filling pressures; Group 1: abnormal relaxation; Group 2: pseudo-normal pattern; Group 3: reversible restrictive; Group 4: fixed restrictive. Images were acquired and performed on a Vivid 9 from the 3 apical views, and analyzed on vendor-specific software (Echo-PAC, GE). GLS was averaged from the 16 segments, and their means compared by ANOVA and each pair with Student’s t test. Results: A total of 858 patients were included, mean age was 63.7 years ± 10.1, and 61.5% were male. From those, 205 (24%) were in group 0; 299 (35%) in group 1; 255 (30%) in group 2; 65 (7%) in group 3; and 34 in group 4 (4%). GLS means measurements were -18.95 ± 2.4, -16.86 ± 3.4, -15.60 ± 3.9, -12.31 ± 3.0, and -10.48 ± 3.3, respectively (P Conclusions: Longitudinal systolic mechanical function is progressively impaired in AL amyloid patients as diastolic dysfunction progresses, despite normal EF. This systolic dysfunction provides insights into the intrinsic relationship between the components of the cardiac cycle.
Metal-on-Metal Hybrid Surface Arthroplasty: Two to Six-Year Follow-up Study

Background: Following the reintroduction of metal-on-metal articulating surfaces for total hip arthroplasty in Europe in 1988, we developed a surface arthroplasty prosthetic system using a metal-on-metal articulation. The present study describes the clinical and radiographic results of the first 400 hips treated with metal-on-metal hybrid surface arthroplasties at an average follow-up of three and a half years. Methods: Between November 1996 and November 2000, 400 metal-on-metal hybrid surface arthroplasties were performed in 355 patients. All femoral head components were cemented, but only fifty-nine of the short metaphyseal stems were cemented. The patients had an average age of forty-eight years, 73% were men, and 66% had a diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Clinical and radiographic follow-up were performed at three months postoperatively and yearly thereafter. Results: The majority of the patients returned to a high level of activity, including sports, and 54% had activity scores of >7 on the University of California at Los Angeles activity assessment system. Kaplan-Meier survivorship curves demonstrated that the rate of survival of the components at four years was 94.4%. For patients with a surface arthroplasty risk index score of >3, the rate of survival of the components at four years was 89% compared with a rate of 97% for those with a score of ≤3. The patients with a higher risk index were 4.2 times more likely to undergo revision to a total hip replacement at four years. Twelve hips (3%) had a revision to a total hip replacement. Seven of the twelve hips were revised because of loosening of the femoral component, and three were revised because of a femoral neck fracture. Substantial radiolucencies were seen around sixteen uncemented metaphyseal femoral stems. No femoral radiolucencies were observed among the hips in which the metaphyseal stem was cemented. The most important risk factors for femoral component loosening and substantial stem radiolucencies were large femoral head cysts (p = 0.029), patient height (p = 0.032), female gender (p = 0.005), and smaller component size in male patients (p = 0.005). Conclusions: The preliminary experience with this hybrid metal-on-metal bearing is encouraging. Optimal femoral bone preparation and component fixation are critical to improving durability. The metal-on-metal hybrid surface arthroplasty is easily revised to a standard femoral component if necessary. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic study, Level IV (case series [no, or historical, control group]). See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Thermal transport in Cu2ZnSnS4 thin films

The stability of kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) under a range of compositions leads to the formation of a number of stable defects that appear to be necessary for high efficiency photovoltaic applications. In this work, the impact of the presence of these defects on the thermal conductivity of CZTS thin films has been explored. Thermal conductivities of CZTS thin films, prepared by pulsed laser deposition with differing compositions, were measured from 80 K to room temperature using the 3ω-method. The temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity indicates that the phonon mean free path is limited by strain field induced point defect scattering from sulfur vacancies in sulfur deficient thin films. The sulfurization of these films in a 10% N2 + H2S ambient at 500 °C increased the sulfur content of the films, reducing the concentration of sulfur vacancies, and produced a negligible change in grain size with an unexpected factor of 5 increase in phonon boundary scattering. This, along with anisotropies in the x-ray diffraction peak profiles of the sulfurized films, suggests that the phonon mean free path in sulfurized films is limited by the presence of cation exchange induced stacking faults. The resulting room temperature thermal conductivities for sulfurized and sulfur deficient thin films were found to be 4.0 W/m K and 0.9 W/m K, respectively.
Extensor Tendon Rupture Following Osteoarthritis of the Distal Radio-Ulnar Joint

We experienced four cases of extensor tendon rupture following primary osteoarthritis of the distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ). They included three males and a female, whose ages ranged from 56 to 80 years (average 69 years).In all the cases, roentogenograms showed osteoarthrotic changes of the DRUJ and dorsal subluxation or dislocation of the ulnar heads.Tendon transfers were done in three cases, in addition to Darrach's operation in one case and a Sauve-Kapandji operation in another case. Friction at the ulnar head and its osteophytes caused the extensor tendons to rupture.
Traumatic upper arm defect treated with latissimus dorsi muscle transposition

Transfer of the latissimus dorsi muscle was useful in restoring contour and function to a child's acutely injured upper extremity. The procedure provided protection for exposed vital structures. A split-thickness skin graft covered the exposed muscle. Transposition of the latissimus dorsi insertion was not necessary to obtain adequate elbow flexion.
The Formation of TiN-Encapsulated Cu Interconnects

A TiN(0)-encapsulated copper structure was made by annealing a Cu-10 at%Ti alloy film evaporated on a SiO2/Si(100) substrate in N2 or NH3 ambiente. During thermal cycling, the tensile stress in the nitridated films is in the range of 200 to 800 MPa. The stress relaxation depends on the cooling cycle and the presence of interlayer between film and substrate. A fast heating rate (70°C/min.) to 550°C in an NH3 ambient can effectively suppress the formation of Cu3Ti and enhance the TiNx(0) formation near the surface of the copper film. This self-encapsulated Cu structure exhibits good adhesion to SiO2 and oxidation resistance. A fully encapsulated Cu fine line structure can be achieved by annealing a Cu-10at%Ti alloy film in an Ar ambient at 550°C and then in an NH3 ambient at 550°C to form TiOx/Ti5Si3 adhesion layer and TiN(O) layer, respectively.
The Surgical Management of Paralytic Deformity of the Foot in Children with Myelomenigocele

We operated six children (ten feet) with myelomeningocele. The average age at operation was 8 years 5 months (range, 5 years 6 months to 11 years 4 months), and mean follow-up period was 1 year 10 months (range, 6 months to 3 years). Of ten feet, calcaneovalgus was found in five feet, calcaneovarus in three and calcaneus in two.Combined operation that consisted of soft-tissue procedures (soft-tissue division, tendon transfer, tenodesis) and bony procedures (arthrodesis, osteotomy) was performed in seven feet. Three feet were operated without bony procedure. Besides these, four supramalleolar osteotomies were performed to the valgus deformity of the ankle due to shortening of the fibula. Satisfactory results were obtained in seven feet but three were unsatisfactory.In conclusion, we considered that the combined operation, especially extra-articular arthrodesis of the talo-calcaneal joint was necessary for the satisfactory result.
Ultrasonic diagnosis in complex congenital heart disease

Sequential segmental analysis must be used for echocardiography in complex congenital heart diseses. Three segments including atria, ventricles and great arteries should be carefully examined. Meanwhile, atrio-ventricular connection and ventricular-arterial connection should be both determined. Thus, a complete accurate echocardiographic diagnosis for complex congenital heart disease can be made.
The development of auditory feedback monitoring. I. Delayed auditory feedback studies on infant cry.

Vocal cry samples of 20 normal newborn infants were recorded under two test conditions: synchronous auditory feedback and a 200 msec delay in auditory feedback (DAF). Averages for cry duration, pau...
Test Reactive Systems with Büchi-Automaton-Based Temporal Requirements

A reactive system is expected to interact with its environment constantly, and its executions may be modeled as infinite words. To capture temporal requirements for a reactive system, Buchi automaton has been used as a formalism to model and specify temporal patterns of infinite executions of the system. A key feature of a Buchi automaton is its ability of accepting infinite words through its acceptance condition. In this paper, we propose a specification-based technique that tests a reactive system with respect to its requirements in Buchi automaton. Our technique selects test suites based on their relevancy to the acceptance condition of a Buchi automaton. By focusing the testing efforts on this key element of a Buchi automaton that is responsible for accepting infinite words, we are able to build a testing process driven by the Buchi automaton specified temporal properties of a reactive system. At the core of our approach are new coverage metrics for measuring how well a test suite covers the acceptance condition of a Buchi automaton. We propose both weak and strong variants of coverage metrics for applications that need tests of different strengths. Each variant incorporates a model-checking-assisted algorithm that automates test case generation. Furthermore our testing technique is capable of revealing not only bugs in a system, but also problems in its requirements. By collecting and analyzing the information produced by a model-checking-assisted test case generation algorithm, our approach may identify inadequate requirements. We also propose an algorithm that refines a requirement in Buchi automaton. Finally, we conduct a thorough computational study to evaluate the performance of our proposed criteria using cross-coverage comparison and fault sensitivity analysis. The results validate the strength of our approach on improving the effectiveness and efficiency of testing, with test cases generated specifically for temporal requirements.
Collection and analysis of butyltin compounds in air at nanogram-per-cubic-meter levels.

An analytical method for determining butyltin chlorides in air at low nanogram-per-cubic-meter levels was developed. Butyltin chlorides investigated were mono-n-butyltin trichloride (MBTC), di-n-butyltin dichloride (DBTC), and tri-n-butyltin chloride (TBTC). These tin chlorides were trapped on cartridges packed with Porapak-N, eluted with methylene chloride containing 0.3% HCI, hydridized with sodium borohydride, and analyzed by capillary gas chromatography with flame photometric detection. On the basis of a 20 m 3 sample, a detection limit of 0.05 ng/m 3 can be achieved.
Far field scattering from bodies of revolution

By use of approximations based on physical reasoning radar cross-section results for bodies of revolution are found. In the Rayleigh region (wavelength large with respect to object dimensions) approximate solutions are found. Examples given include a finite cone, a lens, an elliptic ogive, a spindle and a finite cylinder. In the physical optics region (wavelength very small with respect to all radii of curvature) Kirchhoff theory and also geometric optics can be used. When the body dimensions are only moderately large with respect to the wavelength, Fock or Franz theory can be applied, and examples of the circular and elliptic cylinder are presented. In the region where some dimensions of the body are large with respect to the wavelength and other dimensions are small with respect to the wavelength, special techniques are used. One example, the finite cone, is solved by appropriate use of the wedge-like fields locally at the base. Another example is the use of traveling wave theory for obtaining approximate solutions for the prolate spheroid and the ogive. Other results are obtained for cones the base perimeter of which is of the order of a wavelength by using known results for rings of the same perimeter.
Límites Constitucionales al Endeudamiento Público: Aplicación al caso venezolano desde una perspectiva de Public Choice (Constitutional Limits to Public Debt: Venezuelan Experience Review from A Public Choice Perspective)

Spanish Abstract: ?Como limitar el endeudamiento publico? ?Limites y restricciones constitucionales son suficientes? Son dos de las preguntas que pretende contestar este trabajo a partir de una revision de los trabajos del area de Public Choice en el tema de endeudamiento. La literatura revisada indica que los gobiernos siempre buscaran la forma de evadir y hasta modificar los limites y restricciones al endeudamiento. Pero tambien se senala en la literatura que no tener dichos limites resulta en un escenario peor. Finalmente, exploramos el caso venezolano y las posibilidades de incorporar una reforma constitucional de este tipo.English Abstract: How to limit public debt? Constitutional limits and restrictions are enough? This paper try to answer these two questions, starting from reviewing Public Choice works area on public debt. The literature reviewed indicates that government oficials always seek ways to evade and to modify the limits of public debt. But it also pointed out in the literature that have no such limits resulting in a worst case scenario. Finally, we explore the case of Venezuela and the possibilities of incorporating this type of constitutional reform.
Rapid prototyping a school-based health program in the developing world

Abstract Basic sanitation and hygiene can prevent roughly a million deaths a year. This study examines the rapid prototyping of a pilot school-based handwashing, safe water, and sanitation program in Chennai, India. Our content analysis identified challenges in the classroom (Localization; Curriculum supplies; Program implementation; Communication and language; and Teacher commitment), factors outside the class but within the school (School administration and support and Hygiene and sanitation facilities and supplies) and factors outside the school such as family and slum conditions. We report on the pilot, the barriers it faced, and the changes we made in pursuit of a sustainable school-based health program.
Experimental transmit beamforming using a circular canonical family bound to a locus of quadric roots

This work examines the array behavior of a quadric circular canonical family bound to the locus of zeros of n-sphere and n-ball geometry. This topological family is investigated for its total variability suitable for a wide variety of mobile autonomous systems. The generation of sum and difference beam radiation patterns is of particular interest in this work, and is explored in detail along with simulated and measured scan behavior for further developments.