cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Water Sorption by Dried Dairy Products Stabilized with Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Abstract The difficulty in spray drying mixtures of fruit juices or flavorings, insoluble proteins, whey solids, and sucrose that have been stabilized by the addition of small amounts of carboxymethyl cellulose or other food grade gums cannot be attributed to unique water sorption capacities. Such products sorb water in quantities reflecting the water sorption capacities normally exhibited by the components of the mix. Sorption isotherms for mixtures primarily of whey solids and soy flour, were not affected appreciably by carboxymethyl cellulose in the mix. A composite sorption isotherm constructed for a dried milk-orange juice product from data obtained separately for the orange juice solids, milk solids, sucrose, and carboxymethyl cellulose was similar to the experimental sorption isotherm for the dried product. These data and observations during drying can be rationalized with the theory that hydrocolloid stabilizers increase the intermolecular structuring of water which reduces its rate of diffusion and evaporation during terminal stages of drying.
Homotropic Allosteric Regulation in Monomeric Mammalian Glucokinase

Glucokinase catalyzes the ATP-dependent phosphorylation of glucose, a chemical transformation that represents the rate-limiting step of glycolytic metabolism in the liver and pancreas. Glucokinase is a central regulator of glucose homeostasis as evidenced by its association with two disease states, maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) and persistent hyperinsulinemia of infancy (PHHI). Mammalian glucokinase is subject to homotropic allosteric regulation by glucose-the steady-state velocity of glucose-6-phosphate production is not hyperbolic, but instead displays a sigmoidal response to increasing glucose concentrations. The positive cooperativity displayed by glucokinase is intriguing since the enzyme functions as a monomer under physiological conditions and contains only a single binding site for glucose. Despite the existence of several models of kinetic cooperativity in monomeric enzymes, a consensus has yet to be reached regarding the mechanism of allosteric regulation in glucokinase. Experimental evidence collected over the last 45 years by a number of investigators supports a link between cooperativity and slow conformational reorganizations of the glucokinase scaffold. In this review, we summarize advances in our understanding of glucokinase allosteric regulation resulting from recent X-ray crystallographic, pre-equilibrium kinetic and high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance investigations. We conclude with a brief discussion of unanswered questions regarding the mechanistic basis of kinetic cooperativity in mammalian glucokinase.
Treatment Program Progress: Reliability and Predictive Validity of the Treatment Program Progress Rating Scale

In this study, the authors evaluated the psychometric properties of the Treatment Program Progress (TPP) rating scale, a brief instrument that assesses counselor ratings of patient response to 12-step-oriented substance abuse treatment interventions. In both 3- and 5-day-per-week outpatient programs, the TPP bad good internal consistency reliability. However the TPP demonstrated good interrater reliability and strong predictive validity only in the 5-day program. These preliminary results suggest that the TPP may be used to identify outpatients who are at heightened risk for early dropout, but only when raters have frequent opportunities to observe the patients (i. e., more than 3 times per week).
Temporal Differences in Causes of Mortality After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation.

Background The risk of device-related adverse events leading to death is abundant and ever-present after left ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation. Very few data specifically examine the causes of death related to length of time after VAD implantation. Methods Between October 2004 and February 2013, 493 patients (395 male, 80%) underwent primary continuous-flow VAD implantation at our institutions. The median age at implantation was 60 years (range, 18–79 years), and 301 patients (62%) underwent bridge to transplantation. Results Follow-up was available for all patients (median, 13 months) for a total of 717 patient-years of support. There were 132 deaths during follow-up (median, 8 months; early, 5.5 years) after VAD implantation. The patients were grouped according to temporal occurrence of deaths: (1) early (30-day or index hospitalization) in 34 of 132 patients (26%), (2) between hospital dismissal and 6 months in 29 of 132 patients (22%), (3) 6 months to 1 year in 14 of 132 patients (11%), and (4) after 1 year in 55 of 132 patients (42%). The causes of death (%) at each time period are presented; the most common early cause was right ventricular failure/multisystem organ failure in 18 of 34 patients (61%); from dismissal to 6 months, and 6 months to 1 year, cerebral hemorrhage in 6 of 29 patients (21%) and 4 of 14 patients (29%), respectively; after 1 year, cerebral hemorrhage in 12 of 55 patients (22%) and right ventricular failure/multisystem organ failure in 11 of 55 patients (20%). Conclusions The causes of death vary according to time after VAD implantation. Understanding the temporal relationship of causes of mortality after VAD implantation is critical to the identification of varying specific risks in an effort to avoid morbidity, which may ultimately detract from a durable VAD outcome.
Microstructure of dense thin sheets of γ-TiAl fabricated by hot isostatic pressing of tape-cast monotapes

Abstract A powder metallurgy route based on hot isostatic pressing (HIP) of tape-cast monotapes was used for the direct fabrication of dense thin sheets (250–300 μm thick) of gamma titanium aluminide (γ-TiAl). Polarized light microscopy revealed a fine-grained microstructure (average grain size ∼3 μm) but a few isolated larger grains (∼20 μm) were also present. The primarily metastable α 2 microstructure of the rapidly solidified starting powder transformed to the equilibrium near-γ microstructure during HIP at 1100 °C. Chemical analysis revealed that the dense sheet had a carbon content of 0.13 wt.%, which was only 0.04 wt.% higher than that of the starting powder, but the oxygen content was significantly higher, presumably introduced during the decanning step. The hardness measured using Vickers microindentation technique was 384 ± 9 HV. Manipulation of the as-HIPed microstructure was performed by heating for up to 1 h in flowing argon at temperatures (1170–1385 °C) below and above the alpha transus (1355 °C). Below 1250 °C, limited grain growth and no discernable change in the as-HIPed (near-γ) microstructure occurred. Sheets heated to 1320 °C and 1365 °C had a duplex microstructure of γ and α 2 grains, with some lamellar grains. Except for a thin surface layer (20–30 μm thick), the microstructure of the heat-treated sheet was uniform, but a fully lamellar microstructure was not achieved even after heating for 1 h at 1385 °C.
Is angiotensin system blockade indicated in the elderly

Evidence supporting the renal benefits of angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers in elderly patients without proteinuria is lacking. However, until such data are available, if tolerated, these medications should continue to be used in this patient population because of their potent effect on blood pressure.
Effects of homo-epitaxial LaAlO3 layer on microstructural properties of SrTiO3 films grown on LaAlO3 substrates

Abstract Effects of homo-epitaxial LaAlO 3 (LAO) layer on microstructural properties of SrTiO 3 (STO) films grown on LAO substrates have been investigated. The STO films were deposited by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on LAO (100) substrate with and without a homo-epitaxial LAO (HE–LAO) layer. The microstructure of the STO films was examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM). TEM and HREM studies indicate the HE–LAO layer contains a much higher density of structural defects than the LAO substrate and the STO films grown on its top. In addition, the STO films deposited with the HE–LAO layer have a reduced planar defect (boundary) density relative to those films deposited directly on the LAO substrate. The reduced planar defect density in the STO film is strongly correlated with the previously observed improvement in microwave properties of devices based on these films.
Further studies of bifurcations and chaotic orbits generated by iterated function systems

Abstract In a recent paper [S. Bahar, Chaotic orbits and bifurcation from a fixed point generated by an iterated function system, Chaos, Solitons & Fractals , 5 , 1001–1006 (1995)], we described bifurcation from a fixed point generated by an iterated function system (IFS), as well as the generation of ‘chaotic’ orbits by an IFS. In what follows, we will discuss unusual and quite interesting patterns of bifurcation from a fixed point in an IFS system, as well as the routes to chaos taken by IFS-generated orbits.
Stigma and Discrimination: Perspectives From Mexican and Puerto Rican Mothers of Children With Special Needs

The purpose of this study was to investigate the experiences of stigma-related discrimination in 50 Puerto Rican and Mexican single mothers of young children with disabilities. Mothers were interviewed on issues related to raising a child with disabilities. This was a preliminary exploration of the stories mothers told specifically related to discrimination. A qualitative analysis of the transcripts revealed clear evidence of discrimination as a result of culture, disability, and a combination of culture and disability. Professionals and strangers were responsible for the majority of the discrimination. Experiences were related to the higher number of interactions with service providers, lack of English language proficiency, being the solitary caregiver for their child with a disability, their status of “other,” and the internalization of that status.
Using technology in teaching: using integrated computer tools for data acquisition, data analysis and modeling in introductory physics courses

Describes how Dickinson College (Carlisle, Pennsylvania, USA) has redesigned the teaching methods in introductory physics courses to take advantage of findings in physics education research and introduce students to the use of modern computer tools. Applications include data analysis, graphing and curve fitting; calculations and modeling; video analysis; and microcomputer‐based laboratory tools.
Status of applied biological control of soil-borne plant pathogens

Abstract During the last 15 years a great amount of information has been accumulated on the ecology and physiology of soil-borne plant pathogens around the world. Despite this, very few cases of applied biological or cultural control have been reported. Although soil-borne plant pathogens are widely spread and economically important, only a small fraction of plant pathologists and soil microbiologists has devoted full time in the applied phases of biological control. The number of publications on applied control during the last 10 years in two journals surveyed is exceptionally small. The status of applied biological control of root diseases is considerably less favorable than the situation in entomology where much progress has been made during the last 10 years. The status of biological control (narrowly or broadly defined) of soil-borne pathogens is described here and several examples of applied control are cited. Future prospects for research on the ecology and biological control are also discussed.
Executive share ownership, trading behavior, and corporate control: Evidence from top management turnover during financial distress

Abstract While company stock ownership can encourage wealth-maximizing behavior among managers, we argue that ownership allows entrenchment of managers who own a large enough stake to reduce the possibility of their dismissal. We call this the manager-entrenchment hypothesis. Supporting evidence exists in our study showing that managers with a larger share ownership have a lower probability of removal, and when the removal of an executive becomes imminent, executives who accumulate additional shares decrease their likelihood of replacement. We conclude that individual managers can use large shareholdings and the purchase of additional shares to influence the mechanisms of corporate control.
Surgical treatment of anatomical stress incontinence

The condition Stress Incontinence may be classified as (a) anatomical (AI) and (b) due to intrinsic sphincter damage (ID). While anatomical incontinence is due to anatomical malposition of a normal sphincteric unit in intrinsic damage, the sphincteric unit is abnormal (damaged from multiple surgery, radiation, neurologic disease, etc). The goal of surgery for AI is to reposition the bladder neck and urethra in a high, fixed retropubic position without obstruction. With improvements in the surgical techniques and a better understanding of the anatomical landmarks a clear trend has evolved in recent years toward vaginal approach. Important principles of the vaginal approach include mobilization or the urethra and bladder neck, precise placement of the suspension sutures in sturdy tissue (endopelvic fascia), fingertip guidance of a ligature carrier through the retropubic space, cystoscopy control and tying the sutures without tension. The advantages are simplicity, less morbidity and providing equal or better results than the abdominal approach. AI is only a symptom of pelvic prolapse and concomitant pathology like rectocele, enterocele and uterine prolapse should be addressed at the time of surgical repair. The pathophysiology, classification and different modalities of treatment for anatomical incontinence are discussed.
Non-equilibrium pattern selection in particle sedimentation

Abstract In this paper, we explain some well known experimental observations in fluid solid interaction from a thermodynamic perspective. In particular we use the extremum of the rate of entropy production to establish the stability of specific patterns observed in single and multiparticle sedimentation in an infinite fluid and the sedimentation of spheres in the presence of walls. While these phenomena have been explained numerically, there is no known rigorous theoretical argument to establish the stability of the observed configurations. We provide a very convincing theoretical basis using entropy based arguments that are considered by several scientists as the underlying theme of nature, life and evolution. In the absence of many rigorous examples for the entropy production principle, our paper advances this argument and lends it much credibility. In addition to looking at the rate of entropy production, we also put forth a very plausible heuristic argument based on the thermal gradients in the systems being studied, which could be the underlying causal principle for many known patterns in nature.
New Estimates of Undocumented Mexican Migration and the Probability of Apprehension

Using a new source of data, we estimate the probability of apprehension among Mexican migrants attempting to cross into the United States without documents. Over the period 1965-1989 we found an average apprehension probability of .35, confirming earlier estimates. We then applied annual probabilities to estimate the gross volume of undocumented Mexican migration and adjusted these figures to derive estimates of the net undocumented inflow.
Perspective taking combats the denial of intergroup discrimination

Abstract Despite the continuing, adverse impact of discrimination on the lives of racial and ethnic minorities, the denial of discrimination is commonplace. Four experiments investigated the efficacy of perspective taking as a strategy for combating discrimination denial. Participants who adopted a Black or Latino target's perspective in an initial context were subsequently more likely to explicitly acknowledge the persistence of intergroup discrimination than were non-perspective takers (Experiments 1–3) or participants who adopted a White target's perspective (Experiment 1). Perspective taking also engendered more positive attitudes toward a social policy designed to redress intergroup inequalities (i.e., affirmative action), and this relationship was mediated by increased recognition of discrimination (Experiments 2a and 2b). Increased identification with the targeted outgroup, as reflected in automatic associations between the self and African Americans, was found to underlie the effect of perspective taking on sensitivity to discrimination (Experiment 3). The collective findings indicate that perspective taking can effectively combat discrimination denial.
Managing organizational data resources: quality dimensions

Little guidance has been available to organizations interested in addressing the necessary dimensions of data resources management to ensure data quality in increasingly encountered situations when data usage crosses system boundaries. The basic concept of metadata quality as a foundation for data quality engineering is proposed, as well as an extended data life cycle model consisting of eight phases: metadata creation, metadata structuring, metadata refinement, data creation, data utilization, data assessment, data refinement, and data manipulation. This extended model will enable further development of life cycle phase-specific data quality engineering methods. The paper also expands the concept of applicable data quality dimensions, presenting data quality as a function of four distinct components: data value quality; data representation quality; data model quality; and data architecture quality. Each of these, in turn, is described in terms of specific data quality attributes.
Defining the challenges for C3H6/C3H8 separation using polymeric membranes

The separation of olefins from paraffins is energy intensive, and consequently polymer membrane based separations have been considered as an attractive alternative. Although much research has been conducted on polymer membranes for the C3H6/C3H8 separation in recent years, no comprehensive review exists that considers and evaluates all of the available literature data. A review is necessary in order to define the challenges that must be overcome to achieve adequate separation performance using polymer membranes. The goal of this paper is to present the experimentally observed C3H6/C3H8 upper bound based on available literature data, as well as C3H6/C3H8 permeation measurements reported herein. A mathematical prediction of the C3H6/C3H8 upper bound curve was also developed, and it compares very well to the most credible experimentally observed C3H6/C3H8 upper bound.
Spinning Electrons and the Structure of Spectra

GOUDSMIT and Uhlenbeck have suggested that the structure of multiple lines in spectra can be made much more comprehensible if it is assumed that the electron itself has a magnetic moment of one Bohr magneton (eh/4mc) and an angular momentum of one-half unit (h/4), which can orient itself in various ways with respect to the normal to the electron orbits. Goudsmit and Uhlenbeck point out (Naturwissenschaften, Nov. 20, 1925) that to obtain such a magnetic moment from the rotation of a Lorentz electron about its axis, there would have to be a peripheral velocity greatly exceeding the speed of light. It can also be easily seen that the magnetic energy with its resulting mass would be much greater than the electrical energy. These difficulties do not seem to be easy to overcome by any small modification of the classical model of the electron. It appears, however, that an entirely different picture of electronic structure, based on the idea of light quanta, is capable of giving a consistent explanation of the energy of the electron, and also of predicting the values of some of the electronic constants.
Degenerate two-wave mixing based energy transfer and phase modulation in colloid CdSe quantum dots

Colloid CdSe quantum dots have been synthesized and their photonic application as a two-wave mixing medium has been demonstrated. Large energy transfer from a strong pump beam to a weak signal beam has been observed and possible application in group velocity manipulation has been discussed.
Making contact with artful CD-ROMs

CD-ROMs have only seriously begun to surface on the art scene in the last few years. Paradoxically, CD-ROMs came into their own as an artful medium by using existing media and reconfiguring and articulating them together in new ways. One of the crucial moments of this articulation is the moment of interactivity, the moment during which these constitutive media are fundamentally disrupted. To discuss the reconfiguring and rearticulation of existing media in CD-ROM art, I have chosen a number of examples from Contact Zones: The Art of CD-ROM, a traveling exhibition curated by Timothy Murray of Cornell University. This exhibition, which is itself a landmark in the CD-ROM's emergence as an art form, is impressive in its scale-more than 50 CD-ROMs from 18 countries. Until this exhibition reaches a venue near you, you can get a sense of its richness and the provocative questions it opens through its Web presence, http://contactzones.cit.cornell.edu/.
Political market failure? The effect of government unity on energy technology policy in industrialized democracies

Abstract When do governments implement technology policies that allow society to solve social problems at a lower cost? Focusing on the case of energy, we argue that in industrialized democracies, severe social problems provoke an effective technology policy response when the government is unified. A unified government can easily strike the bargains required to secure political support for new technology programs. We test this theory against data on public energy research and development (R&D) in 22 OECD countries, 1980–2006. We find that as government fractionalization increases in a country, the sensitivity of public energy R&D to wasteful energy use, which presents economic and environmental difficulties to the society, declines. The analysis reveals a new reason for ineffective technology policies and contributes to the broad literature on political market failure.
Hybrid power systems for autonomous MEMS

This paper describes the design of a hybrid power system for use with autonomous MEMS and other microdevices. This hybrid power system includes energy conversion and storage along with an electronic system for managing the collection and distribution of power. It offers flexibility and longevity in a compact package. The hybrid power system couples a silicon solar cell with a microbattery specially designed for MEMS applications. We have designed a control/interface charging circuit to be compatible with a MEMS duty cycle. The design permits short pulses of 'high' power while taking care to avoid excessive charging or discharging of the battery. Charging is carefully controlled to provide a balance between acceptably small charging times and a charging profile that extends battery life. Our report describes the charging of our Ni/Zn microbatteries using solar cells. To date we have demonstrated thousands of charge/discharge cycles of a simulated MEMS duty cycle.
Electric field of a 2D elliptical charge distribution inside a cylindrical conductor

By combining the method of images with calculus of complex variables, we provide a simple expression for the electric field of a two-dimensional (2D) static elliptical charge distribution inside a perfectly conducting circular cylinder. The charge distribution need not be concentric with the cylinder.
Functional receptors for the insulinotropic hormone glucagon-like peptide-I(7–37) on a somatostatin secreting cell line

Glucagon-like peptide-I (7–37) [(GLP-I(7–37)] is an instestinal peptide hormone that has potent insulinotropic activities in vivo in response to oral nutrients. In the isolated perfused pancreas, and in vitro in cultured B cells, GLP-I(7–37) receptor binding and GLP-I(7–37)-induced cAMP generation and harmone secretion was studied using cell lines producing insulin/B cell (βTC-1), glucagon/A cell (INR1G9) and somatostatin/D cell (RIN 1027-B2). [125I]GLP-I(7–37) bound specifically to both B and D cells but not to A cells. GLP-I(7–37) induced cAMP-formation in B and D cells with a maximum response at 10 nmol/l(B cells) or at 100 nmol/l (D cells). Insulin secretion from perifused B cells was stimulated by GLP-I(7–37) (maximum at 10 nmol/l) and 10 nmol/l GLP-I(7–37) released somatostatin from perifused D cells, GLP-I(7–37) did not influence cAMP or glucagon secretion from A cells. These data indicate that pancreatic B and D cells, but not the A cells are influenced directly by GLP-I(7–37) via binding to specific receptors. Our findings support a model of physiologic regulation of insulin secretion whereby GLP-I(7–37) released from the intestine in response to oral nutrients potently stimulates insulin secretion via an endocrine mechanism that in turn may be dampened by a feed-back suppression by the release of somatostatin. In addition, suppression of the secretion of glucagon, a hormone whose actions are counter-regulatory to those of insulin, may occur by paracrine mechanisms involving GLP-I(7–37)-mediated stimulation of both insulin and somatostatin secretion.
Optical rotatory dispersion of mucopolysaccharides and mucopolysaccharide–dye complexes

Anomalous optical rotatory dispersion (ORD) is induced in symmetric dyes when bound in metachromatic complexes with chondroitin sulfates (ChS) and kerato sulfate (KS) from mammalian and shark origin as well as with heparin (H) providing inference that secondary structures exist in these biopolymers. The induced rotation occurs in the absorption band of the bound dye and differs in shape and/or spectral position from the classical Cotton effect seen with single optically active chromophores. The AO:ChS complex has an induced ORD curve similar to that of the exciton band of a helical polymer. Strength of the induced rotations with methylene blue increases with the degree of metachromasy of the 1:1 complex. The sense of the MB Cotton effects may depend upon the conformations of the repeating dimeric units, since MB complexes with ChS (alternating 1-3,1-4 β-glycosides) give (+) effects while MB:H (1-4 α-glycosides) have (−) effects in the γ band region. Preliminary evidence for the occurrence of Cotton effects with the mucopolysaccharides themselves in the ultraviolet region was obtained. The sign of the Cotton effect for ChS-C is (−), trough about 45.9 kK., crossover about 48.8 kK. whereas that for H is (+), peak about 50.4 kK.
Simulation of an Electrostatically Driven Microinjector

This paper presents results of analytical and numerical simulations of an electrostatically actuated microfuel injector. The electrostatic-structural coupling, efficiency of valves, and net flow rate of the pump are calculated using analytical relations and compared with numerical simulations. One way to increase flow rate is to increase the stroke volume, which may lead to large deflection of the diaphragm. Thus, the membrane load deflection relationship is no longer linear and when coupled to the inherently nonlinear fluid behavior leads to a complex problem. We used numerical methods to solve for the fluid-structure interaction and the large deflection of the membrane, and studied the effect of actuation frequency on the net flow rate.
Cloning of a lymphoid-specific cDNA encoding a protein binding the regulatory octamer DNA motif

An octamer DNA sequence plays a critical role in directing transcription of immunoglobulin genes in B lymphocytes. A new technique of direct binding of radioactive DNA was used to screen a complementary DNA expression library from the BJAB cell line in lambda gt11 phage to derive molecular cDNA clones representing a putative B lymphocyte-specific octamer binding protein. The plaques were screened with DNA containing four copies of the octamer sequence and positive phage recombinants were identified. The fusion protein produced on inducing a lysogen of one phage bound to a monomeric octamer probe. The cDNA insert from this phage hybridized to messenger RNA found in B lymphocytes, but not in most other cells. Thus, this cDNA derives from a gene (oct-2) that specifies an octamer binding protein expressed preferentially in B lymphocytes, proving that, for at least one gene, a cell-specific transcription factor exists and its amount is controlled through messenger RNA availability.
Starting a Lifelong Learning Institute: A Firsthand Perspective

ABSTRACT This article describes in a firsthand perspective the process of creating a Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI). What was to become a University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute began in 2002 as a project for a small group of undergraduate students and one graduate student. This article describes the year of start-up leading to the first semester of a new lifelong learning program.
Intervention for individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: treatment approaches and case management

Exposure to alcohol in utero is considered to be the leading cause of developmental disabilities of known etiology. The most severe consequence of such exposure, fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), is characterized by a distinct constellation of characteristic facial anomalies, growth retardation, and central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. Some individuals with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) do not meet the full criteria for FAS, but instead are diagnosed with partial FAS, alcohol related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND), or alcohol related birth defects (ARBD). The entire continuum of effects from PAE is increasingly being referred to under the umbrella term of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). An extensive body of research has documented major cognitive, behavioral, adaptive, social, and emotional impairments among individuals with FASDs. Although FAS was identified in the U.S. over 35 years ago, the development, evaluation, and dissemination of evidence-based interventions for individuals with FASDs have lagged behind significantly. Encouragingly, however, in recent years there has been a marked increase in efforts to design and test interventions to remediate the impairments associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. This article will review treatment needs and considerations for individuals with FASDs and their families, current empirically tested treatment approaches, case management issues, and suggestions for future directions in research on the treatment of FASDs.
WE-A-BRB-01: Robotic Brachytherapy Demonstration: Implant of HDR Brachytherapy Needle Configuration Computer-Optimized to Avoid Critical Structures Near the Bulb of the Penis

Purpose: To develop a robotic system to implant high dose rate brachytherapy (HDR‐BT) needle configurations meeting clinical dose objectives while avoiding puncture of non‐target structures. This system consists of (1) a robotic needle insertion device, (2) needle and dose planning software, and (3) a human with no clinical experience. Methods: Acubot‐RND is a joy‐stick controlled 7‐DoF stereotactic needle insertion robot with a remote center of motion (RCM) allowing needle pivot around the RCM point. For this project, a digital needle coordinate input and execution system was developed to replace the analog joy‐stick control. Custom pelvic phantoms were built, CTimaged, and contoured. A custom needle‐geometry optimization engine was used to generate a planned needle configuration (PNC) within the robot workspace and tailored to the phantom anatomy. Configurations of parallel and angulated needles (up to 53 deg. from parallel) were instructed to avoid puncture of the critical structures near the penile bulb (CSNB). The PNC was transferred to Acubot for sequential insertion. After each insertion, the robot released the needle in place. Needle stylets were passed through the needle and deposited in the phantom during needle retraction by the human user making the implanted needle configuration (INC). Results: Two phantoms were implanted using the robotic system. Post‐implant CT were obtained, puncture avoidance of the CSNB, pubic arch, and urethra confirmed, and the INC digitized for treatment plan generation. Satisfaction of RTOG‐0321 clinical dose objectives was verified and quantitatively compared against a phantom implant performed by an experienced physician. Conclusions: A clinically‐ relevant roboticbrachytherapy workflow able to avoid the CSNB and guide needles behind the pubic arch while meeting clinical dose requirements was demonstrated. Operation of this system mitigates some reliance on brachytherapy implant expertise. This workflow is valid for both PPI and HDR‐BT. Supported by American Cancer Society Grant #IRG‐97‐150‐13.
Predictors of Persistence for Developmental Math Students in a Community and Technical College System.

At two-year public community colleges, the 2011 three-year persistence rate was 23.9%. From 1988 to 2006, between 40% and 60% of all first-time community college students were referred to and enrolled in at least one developmental education course. More students begin college underprepared in mathematics than any other subject area, and only about half of all students enrolled in developmental mathematics successfully completed such a course. In 2009, only 26% of Kentucky high school graduates reached the benchmark in mathematics; nonetheless, 74% “indicated an interest in obtaining a bachelor’s degree or higher” (ACT, Inc., 2009, p. 5). For students in Kentucky and many other states to earn a degree, persisting beyond developmental mathematics is a necessity. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between demographic, academic, and work and family factors and persistence to the next semester for six cohorts of students enrolled in Basic Algebra at Kentucky’s public two-year community a...
Reduced-order constrained optimization in IMRT planning

This paper presents a new algorithm for constrained intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) planning, made tractable by a dimensionality reduction using a set of plans obtained by fast, unconstrained optimizations. The main result is to reduce planning time by an order of magnitude, producing viable five field prostate IMRT plans in about 5 min. Broadly, the algorithm has three steps. First, we solve a series of independent unconstrained minimization problems based on standard penalty-based objective functions, 'probing' the space of reasonable beamlet intensities. Next, we apply principal component analysis (PCA) to this set of plans, revealing that the high-dimensional intensity space can be spanned by only a few basis vectors. Finally, we parameterize an IMRT plan as a linear combination of these few basis vectors, enabling the fast solution of a constrained optimization problem for the desired intensities. We describe a simple iterative process for handling the dose-volume constraints that are typically required for clinical evaluation, and demonstrate that the resulting plans meet all clinical constraints based on an approximate dose calculation algorithm.
On human cognition and the design of information systems

Abstract For almost two decades, cognitive style has been employed as a factor in the explanation of human interaction with computer systems. However, previous findings based on its use have proven inconclusive. The experiment discussed here utilized 101 subjects who were presented with four tasks. Cognitive style was assessed for each subject, as were the cognitive processes utilized in each task solution. The results demonstrate the fallacy of using cognitive style to explain task-based performance and offer evidence suggesting that cognitive process may better explain differences in human performance across multiple tasks.
Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase Resistance in the ICU:

Despite the recent focus on gram-positive infections in the intensive care unit (ICU), gram-negative resistance mechanisms continue to challenge the critical care practitioner. A recent national surveillance study of United States ICUs found Escherichia coli, Enterbacter species, Klebsiella species, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa represented 72% of all gram-negative bacilli recovered. E coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter species are significant producers of a β-lactamase that inactivates almost all β-lactam antibiotics, so-called extended-spectrum β-lactamases or ESBLs. Many clinical laboratories may not test for ESBL-production in these organisms, thus clinicians may be unaware of the rising incidence of this plasmid-mediated resistance mechanism. Since initial reports of ESBLs in the 1980s, investigators have found an association with ESBL-producing organisms and the critically ill population. Risk factors for ESBL-related infection in the ICU include arterial, central-venous, and urinary-cathete...
Heavy metals distribution in Jamaica Bay sediments

Ninety-two sediment samples collected at 53 stations in Jamaica Bay from November 1970 to October 1973 were analyzed for Pb, Cr, V, Cu, Cd, Zn, Ni, Co, and percent organic carbon (ORC). Selected samples were analyzed for Hg. The concentrations of all metals correlate with each other and with organic carbon. Vanadium, cobalt, and nickel stand out as a separate component and are enriched relative to other metals in areas affected by petroliferous pollution. The metal concentrations are strongly influenced by the strength of tidal currents and proximity to pollution sources. Amount of rainfall and/or season affects metal concentrations in Grassy Bay (a deep restricted body of water within Jamaica Bay).
Growth and Reproduction of the Mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis, in Relation to Temperature and Ration Level: Consequences for Life History

The allocation of energy to growth and reproduction, in relation to temperature and food availability, was investigated in laboratory experiments with the mosquitofish,Gambusia affinis. At constant temperature of 20, 25 and 30°C and ad libitum feeding, specific growth rates increased with increasing temperature at 1.7, 3.1 and 3.4% dry mass day−1, respectively. Growth rates in a cycling temperature regime (20–30°C,\(\bar x = 25^ \circ C\)) were faster than in a 25°C constant temperature. As temperature increased from 20 to 30°C, mean age at first reproduction decreased from 191 to 56 days and brood size and mass of offspring increased significantly. Interbrood interval was also temperature dependent; estimates at 25 and 30°C for females >1000 mg were 22.6 and 18.6 days, respectively. Interbrood interval could not be calculated at 20°C. Although fitness was highest at 30°C, females at 25°C invested a greater proportion of surplus energy (growth and reproduction) to reproduction (38%) than at 20 (17%) or 30°C (36%) during the 32-week study. Fish at cooler temperatures began reproduction at a smaller size.
Performance of miniaturized direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) devices using micropump for fuel delivery

Abstract A fuel cell is a device that can convert chemical energy into electricity directly. Among various types of fuel cells, both polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) can work at low temperature (
Mixed-mode, high-cycle fatigue-crack-growth thresholds in Ti-6Al-4V: Role of bimodal and lamellar microstructures

Mixed-mode, high-cycle fatigue-crack growth thresholds are reported for through-thickness cracks (large compared to microstructural dimensions) in a Ti-6Al-4V turbine blade alloy in both lamellar and bimodal microstructural conditions. Specifically, the effect of combined mode I and mode II loading, over a range of phase angles (β=tan −1 (ΔK II/ΔK I) from 0 to 62 deg (ΔK II/ΔK I∼0 to 1.9), is examined at a load ratio (ratio of minimum to maximum loads) of R = 0.1 and a cyclic loading frequency of 1000 Hz in ambient-temperature air. When the mixed-mode, crack-driving force is characterized in terms of the strain-energy release rate (ΔG), incorporating contributions from both the applied tensile and shear loading, the threshold for fatigue-crack growth is observed to increase significantly with the applied mode-mixity (ΔK II/ΔK I) for both microstructures, an effect attributed to enhanced crack-tip shielding. The pure mode I threshold, in terms of ΔG TH, is observed to be a lower bound (worst case) with respect to mixed-mode (I + II) behavior. For large crack sizes, the threshold fatigue-crack growth resistance of the lamellar structure is observed to be superior to that of the bimodal material for all phase angles investigated. Consideration of mode I fatigue-crack growth thresholds for small cracks in these same microstructures suggests that this rank ordering of mixed-mode fatigue resistance may not hold for crack lengths that are comparable to microstructural size scales. Examination of the fatigue-crack wake indicates that, for the lamellar microstructure, the path of crack extension is significantly influenced by the local microstructure over length scales on the order of the relatively coarse lamellar colonies (∼500 µm). Comparatively, the crack path in the bimodal material is more strongly influenced by the applied crack-driving force. This disparity in behavior is attributed primarily to the relatively heterogeneous crack-growth resistance of the coarse lamellar microstructure.
Separation of surface and bulk components in MOS-C generation rate measurements

Abstract From a survey of the MOS-C literature it is concluded that the problem of separating generation rate components, specifically separating the depletion region and lateral surface components, is either ignored or handled improperly. Herein a separation technique, the subtraction method, is introduced after considering possible alternative approaches. Detailed consideration is given to the underlying conceptual basis, advantages, and limitations of the technique. Finally, sample experimental results derived from both annealed and unannealed structures are presented primarily to illustrate the subtraction method procedure.
Management of Urinary Tract Infections in Infants and Children

One hundred one pediatric patients with urinary tract infections (UTI) were evaluated during 129 visits to our emergency department or ambulatory clinics. The primary objectives of this study were to assess the pattern and appropriateness of the use of antibiotics, in infants and children with UTI. Choice of antibiotics and decision to initiate empiric antibiotic therapy were made appropriately. Continuation of antibiotics despite negative urine culture reports and incomplete antibiotic orders were identified in many cases. Although signs and symptoms of UTI were documented in all cases, genitalia examination was performed in less than 50 percent of cases. The methods of urine collection were poorly documented in many cases. The follow-up evaluations were not available in 80 of 129 cases. These results suggest that discontinuation of antibiotics after receiving reports of negative urine culture, completion of antibiotic orders, documentation of therapy and physical or laboratory data, recommendation for genitalia examination, and follow-up evaluation in all patients may improve the quality of management of UTI in children.
Micron-sized, high aspect ratio bulk silicon micromechanical devices

The fabrication of high-aspect-ratio microstructures having widths of approximately=1 mu m and thicknesses exceeding 10 mu m for application in a variety of microsensors and microactuators is reported. The fabrication process utilizes deep etching of fine features into boron-diffused bulk silicon wafers using chlorine- and fluorine-based reactive ion etching techniques. These wafers are then electrostatically bonded to glass wafers which have been previously patterned with metal interconnect. The wafers are finally etched in an ethylenediamine pyrocatechol solution that frees the microstructures. The process requires a total of three masking steps (two for silicon and one for glass), is single-sided, and has high yield. Structures with thickness-to-width ratios greater than 10:1 have been fabricated using this process. Electrical measurements have shown that very large deflections (>7 mu m) are possible at voltages as low as 25 V. >
Aerosol and Biological Sampling of a Ventilation Fan-bank Modified with Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation and Improved Filter Holders:

Two independent modifications were made to one of two identical side-by-side filter banks for a large air-handler: (1) new filter holders, intended to provide a better seal and (2) ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lamps, intended to control microbiological growth. Total system efficiency testing with optical particle counters was performed to determine the effectiveness of the new filter holders. The efficacy of the UVGI lamps was determined through biological surface and air sampling. Results indicated that the side with the new filter holders was about 3.4% more efficient per year during the 22-month sampling period, whereas the coil chamber with the UVGI lamps had less biological contamination than the corresponding control chamber for over 75% of the sampling days.
Endothelial differentiation of diabetic adipose-derived stem cells.

Abstract Background Diabetic (DM) patients frequently lack autologous vascular tissue required for revascularization procedures and dialysis access creation. We have developed a tissue-engineered graft that uses adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) as endothelial cell substitutes. Here, we compare DM versus nondiabetic (NDM) ASC in terms of isolation efficiency, proliferation, commitment toward endothelial lineage, and seeding onto the luminal surface of a graft. Methods ASC were isolated from liposuction specimens of vascular surgery patients. Proliferation was assessed by constructing growth curves over 14 d. ASC were differentiated in endothelial growth medium (EGM2). Endothelial commitment was assessed by measuring endothelial cell-specific gene expression (CD31, von Willebrand factor) and by cord formation on Matrigel. Finally, ASC were seeded onto a vascular scaffold, flow conditioned, and imaged with confocal microscopy. Results Diabetes did not alter ASC isolation efficiency (224,028 ± 20,231 cells/g adipose for DM ( n = 53) versus 259,345 ± 15,441 cells/g adipose for NDM ( n = 145; P = 0.21). Growth curves for DM ( n = 6) and NDM ( n = 6) also appeared similar. After culture in EGM2, upregulation of CD31 and von Willebrand factor message was observed in NDM; these markers were found within the primary cultures of DM but no upregulation was observed after culture in EGM2. Both groups exhibited similar cord formation on Matrigel and retention to vascular scaffolds. Conclusions Isolation and proliferation studies suggest that adipose is a promising source of stem cells for tissue engineering in the DM population. The angiogenic potential of DM ASC appears intact; however, differences in acquisition of endothelial cell markers suggest that differentiation may be inhibited or delayed by diabetes.