cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Flexible Esophagoscopy and Fluoroscopically Guided Dilation

This chapter describes the endoscopic procedures for dilation of esophageal strictures. This includes an introduction that outlines the indications, risks, alternatives, key steps, equipment needed, and variations in technique for the procedure, namely the use of balloon dilators versus esophageal bougies. A template operative dictation is then included, which provides the reader with a detailed operative report similar to what would be found in the patient medical record. A description is provided of the following critical concepts for this procedure: identifying the stricture and passing a guidewire, selection of dilating equipment, and inspection for perforation.
Spectral feedback control of turbulent spectra in a wind tunnel

Longitudinal flow velocity control was conducted in the Andrew Fejer Unsteady Wind Tunnel to produce velocity spectra that emulate atmospheric turbulence. A louver mechanism placed at the downstream end of the test section determines the resistance to the flow by varying the louver deflection angle, and hence changes the test-section velocity. The test-section flow velocity was decomposed into an adjustable mean flow $$u_0$$ and a fluctuation $$u'$$ , which were respectively controlled by the mean louver deflection angle and the oscillations of the louvers about that mean angle. A linear interpolation of the static map of the test-section flow speed with respect to the louver deflection angle was used as an open-loop controller for the longitudinal flow velocity. A feedback loop that measures the velocity spectrum over a short time interval constructed a closed-loop controller, which controls the mean flow speed as well as the amplitudes over a range of individual frequencies within the fluctuation spectrum. The spectral feedback approach was tested by generating the longitudinal velocity components of von Karman turbulence spectra and Dryden turbulence spectra. The controller proved to be capable of controlling the gust frequency with a bandwidth of 7 Hz given the current hardware configuration.
Multi-scale analysis of aligned ZnO nanowires reinforced hybrid composites under three-point bending

This paper presents novel multi-scale modeling and failure analysis of hybrid carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites enhanced by zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires. Vertically aligned ZnO nanowi...
Optimizing Civilian Response Strategy Under an Active Shooting Incident

Active shooting (AS) violence poses a serious threat to public safety. Most importantly, this number is increasing at an alarming rate over the last few years. Unfortunately, the knowledge base on attack detection and civilian response strategy under an AS incident are very limited. Such a lack of understanding hinders the development of effective training modules, response, and mitigation strategies (for both civilians and law enforcement officers) for an event that is highly unpredictable and unfolds quickly (typically in less than 5 min). To fill this gap in the literature, this article proposes an innovative mathematical model which captures several important features (e.g., capacity of the facility and individual choices, heterogeneity of individual behavioral and choice sets, restriction on choice sets depending on the location of the shooter and facility orientation, and many others) which are essential for appropriately characterizing and analyzing the response strategy for civilians under an AS exposed environment. We demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model by implementing the effectiveness of the RUN.HIDE.FIGHT. program in an academic environment. Results indicate that cognitive delay, the initial distribution of the civilians, and building configurations (e.g., location and number of entrances/exits) play a significant role in the safety of civilians under an AS incident.
Improving Dynamic Leakage Suppression Logic with Forward Body Bias in 65nm CMOS

This paper investigates the effect of body biasing on the leakage and delay of dynamic leakage suppression (DLS) logic. We present a brief theoretical analysis of the impact of body biasing on DLS logic as well as measurements from a test chip in 65nm CMOS. Results show that forward body biasing can reduce delay by up to 41X with negligible impacts on leakage.
A numerical modeling study of a Montana thunderstorm. I - Model results versus observations involving nonelectrical aspects. II - Model results versus observations involving electrical aspects

Model results and the observed cloud behavior are examined in terms of nonelectrical and electrical aspects of a thunderstorm. The characteristics of the two-dimensional, time-dependent atmospheric electricity model used to simulate the cloud observations of July 19, 1981 in Miles City, Montana are described. The interactions of the dynamics and microphysics of the cloud with the charge separation mechanisms are analyzed. It is observed that the model accurately represents many of the observed characteristics of the cloud; however, the cloud base height, maximum liquid water content, and the time from first formation of precipitation until it reaches the ground are not accurately modeled. It is found that the model adequately represents the electrical field structure of the cloud and the electrical field strengths.
Overview of Meta-analyses Investigating Vibrotactile versus Visual Display Options

The literature is replete with studies that investigated the effectiveness of vibrotactile displays; however, individual studies in this area often yield discrepant findings that are difficult to synthesize. In this paper, we provide an overview of a comprehensive review of the literature and meta-analyses that organized studies to enable comparisons of visual and tactile presentations of information, to yield information useful to researchers and designers. Over six hundred studies were initially reviewed and coded along numerous criteria that determined appropriateness for meta-analysis categories. Comparisons were made between conditions that compared (a) adding a tactile cue to a baseline condition, (b) a visual cue with a multimodal (visual and tactile) presentation, and (c) a visual cue with a tactile cue. In addition, we further categorized within these comparisons with regard to type of information, that ranged from simple alerts and single direction cues to more complex tactile patterns representing spatial orientation or short communications.
In-vivo occlusal caries prevention by pulsed CO2-laser and fluoride varnish treatment—A clinical pilot study

Background and Objectives High caries prevalence in occlusal pits and fissures warrants novel prevention methods. An 86% reduction in dental enamel smooth surface demineralization in-vivo following short-pulsed 9.6 µm-CO2-laser irradiation was recently reported. The objective of this study was to conduct a blinded 12-month-pilot clinical trial of occlusal pit and fissure caries inhibition using the same CO2-laser irradiation conditions. Study Design/Materials and Methods Twenty subjects, average age 14 years, were recruited. At baseline, second molars were randomized into test and control groups, assessed by International Caries Detection & Assessment System (ICDAS-II), SOPROLIFE light-induced fluorescence evaluator in daylight and blue-fluorescence mode and DIAGNOdent. An independent investigator irradiated test molars with a CO2-laser, wavelength 9.6 µm, pulse-duration 20 µs, pulse-repetition-rate 20 Hz, beam diameter 800 µm, average fluence 4.5 ± 0.5 J/cm2, 20 laser pulses per spot. At 3-, 6- and 12-month recall teeth were assessed by ICDAS, SOPROLIFE and DIAGNOdent. All subjects received fluoride varnish applications at baseline and 6-month recall. Results All subjects completed the 3-month, 19 the 6-month and 16 the 12-month recall. At all recalls average ICDAS scores had decreased for the test and increased for the control fissures (laser vs. control, 3-month: −0.10 ± 0.14, 0.30 ± 0.18, P > 0.05; 6-month: −0.26 ± 0.13, 0.47 ± 0.16, P = 0.001; 12-month: −0.31 ± 0.15, 0.75 ± 0.17, P < 0.0001; mean ± SE, unpaired t-test) being statistically significantly different at 6- and 12-month recalls. SOPROLIFE daylight evaluation revealed at 6- and 12-months statistically significant differences in changes between baseline and recall for test and control molars, respectively (laser vs. control, 6-month: 0.22 ± 0.13, 0.17 ± 0.09, P = 0.02; 12-month: 0.28 ± 0.19, 0.25 ± 0.17, P = 0.03). For SOPROLIFE blue-fluorescence evaluation mean changes in comparison to baseline for the control and the laser treated teeth were also statistically significant for the 6- and 12-month recall. Conclusion Specific microsecond short-pulsed 9.6 µm CO2-laser irradiation markedly inhibits caries progression in pits and fissures in comparison to fluoride varnish alone over 12 months. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:302–310, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth hormone deficiency in HIV-infected children following successful treatment with highly active antiretroviral therapy

Growth failure is common in children with untreated HIV, although growth hormone (GH) deficiency is rare. Treatment with highly active antiretroviral therapy usually results in resumption of normal growth. We report the cases of 2 children with growth failure despite stable full suppression of viremia who were found to be GH deficient.
Dispersion of edge states and quantum confinement of electrons in graphene channels drawn on graphene fluoride

Graphene is an excellent conductor, while graphene fluoride is a wide band-gap semiconductor. We propose the formation of graphene channels embedded in graphene fluoride as a method to induce quantum confinement of charge carriers in graphene. In particular, we study the electronic structure of graphene channels drawn on the fluoride along two high-symmetry directions: the armchair and zigzag orientations. The zigzag channels are found to have dispersive one-dimensional edge bands, contrary to the case of ribbons and channels drawn on graphane, where the edge state is flat close to the Fermi level and has a very large effective mass. The effective mass of this one-dimensional edge state can be controlled by electrostatic interactions at the edge of the channel. This result indicates that the mobility of these channels can be controlled by a localized gate voltage. The armchair channel is found to be metallic or semiconducting depending on the width of the channel, in agreement with ribbons and hydrogen-limited channels.
Modeling the Measurements of QoS Requirements in Web Service Systems

The new technology of Web services is beginning to impact the global business approaches and trends in which the services are being offered and consumed. The advancement of Web services and its wide spread use require that its quality of service (QoS) components to be highly dependable and robust. It is clear that one of the major inevitable challenges facing the business organizations today is to provide adequate QoS aspects for Web services. This paper gathers together the various techniques that can be used for measuring and optimizing the major QoS requirements for Web services proposed by the World Wide Consortium (W3C), while presenting a methodology to build QoS-aware Web services. A software model was designed and implemented to test a Web service and perform the experiments to quantitatively measure the QoS requirements involved in a Web service. Various modeling tests and experiments were designed and conducted to illustrate the proposed QoS measurement metrics. The techniques discussed in this paper can be incorporated into the planning, design, implementation, deployment, operational and maintenance phases during a Web service development lifecycle.
Bile duct destruction by 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane does not block the small hepatocyte‐like progenitor cell response in retrorsine‐exposed rats

Liver regeneration after surgical partial hepatectomy (PH) in retrorsine-exposed rats is accomplished through the outgrowth and expansion of small hepatocyte-like progenitor cells (SHPCs). The cells of origin for SHPCs and their tissue niche have not been identified. Nevertheless, some investigators have suggested that SHPCs may represent an intermediate or transitional cell type between oval cells and mature hepatocytes, rather than a distinct progenitor cell population. We investigated this possibility through the targeted elimination of oval cell proliferation secondary to bile duct destruction in retrorsine-exposed rats treated with 4,4-diaminodiphenylmethane (DAPM). Fischer 344 rats were treated with 2 doses (30 mg/kg body weight) retrorsine (at 6 and 8 weeks of age) followed by PH 5 weeks later. Twenty-four hours before PH, select animals were given a single dose of DAPM (50 mg/kg). Treatment of rats with DAPM produced severe bile duct damage but did not block liver regeneration. Oval cells were never seen in the livers of DAPM-treated retrorsine-exposed rats after PH. Rather, liver regeneration in these rats was mediated by the proliferation of SHPCs, and the cellular response was indistinguishable from that observed in retrorsineexposed rats after PH. SHPC clusters emerge 1 to 3 days post-PH, expand through 21 days post-PH, with normalization of the liver occurring by the end of the experimental interval. Conclusion: These results provide direct evidence that SHPC-mediated liver regeneration does not require oval cell activation or proliferation. In addition, these results provide strong evidence that SHPCs are not the progeny of oval cells but represent a distinct population of liver progenitor cells. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;46:1611-1619.)
Comparison of capacitive and inductive bone stimulation devices. Analysis of sinusoidal electromagnetic fields.

Recent experiments indicate that both inductive and capacitively generated electromagnetic fields can be used to non-invasively stimulate bone formation in osteotomies and fracture non-unions. However, very little is known about the mechanisms which produce this effect in either type of field. In order to provide information relative to elucidating such mechanisms, as well as some insight into the problems associated with clinically applying either system, a comparative analysis of the two types of fields is presented. In each case the electrical and magnetic components of the field are defined, along with its total energy flux and the electrical currents induced in the tissue. Also, pertinent electrical factors related to its generation are calculated. The electric field strength and currents in the two devices can be about the same, but important differences exist in the geometry of the electric field and its temporal relationship to the magnetic field. These results are discussed relative to current experimental data and eventual clinical application.
Pharmacological Management of Cluster Headache

Cluster headache is a distinct clinical and epidemiological entity. The International Headache Society criteria for the diagnosis of cluster headache requires at least 5 attacks of severe, unilateral, orbital, supraorbital and/or temporal pain lasting 15 to 180 minutes. Attacks should occur at a frequency ranging from 1 every other day to 8 per day. The pain should be associated with at least 1 of the following: conjunctival injection, lacrimation, nasal congestion, rhinorrhoea, forehead and facial sweating, miosis, ptosis or eyelid oedema. Cluster headache can be divided into 2 clinical entities: episodic cluster headache and chronic cluster headache.
Developmental regulation of regenerative specificity in the bullfrog

Abstract The accuracy with which motor axons reinnervate the hindlimb following ventral rhizotomy was studied in the bullfrog ( Rana catesbeiana ) by mapping the locations within the lumbar lateral motor column of motoneurons retrogradely labeled with horseradish peroxidase. At early stages of development, axons regenerate to the correct hindlimb region. In older tadpoles and frogs, axons appear to regenerate to targets determined by basal lamina tubes, which persist in the distal nerve stump after the severed nerve fiber degenerates. Basal lamina tubes develop at the stages when regenerative specificity is no longer expressed. These results led to the hypothesis that guidance cues may be present in older animals, and axons may be capable of responding to these cues, but are prevented from doing so because they are confined in basal lamina tubes. Results obtained from crossstage hindlimb transplants are consistent with this hypothesis.
A survey of blood transfusion practices of gynecologic oncologists.

Abstract Objective: To survey the attitudes of gynecologic oncologists about indications for blood transfusion, and compare them to current recommendations about transfusion practice. Methods: With the permission of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists (SGO), a study questionnaire was mailed to 548 members and candidates in their directory. The questions asked about transfusion threshold before chemotherapy, following ovarian debulking, and after endometriosis surgery. Indications for transfusion were assessed using a qualitative/quantitative scale. Responses were analyzed with respect to years of SGO membership and practice setting using the χ 2 test and analysis of variance. Results were compared to the 1992 guidelines for transfusion of the American College of Physicians (ACP). Results: Two hundred eighty-five forms were returned (52% of total). Fifty-one percent of respondents were in full-time academic positions; 36% were in private practice. Sixty-one percent were full SGO members, and 35% were candidates. The average prechemotherapy transfusion threshold (TT) was a hemoglobin concentration (hgb) of 7.9 ± 0.7 g/dl (g). At that level the mean transfusion was 1.9 ± 0.5 units of packed red blood cells (U). For the ovarian debulking scenario, the mean postoperative TT was 8.1 ± 0.8 g with a mean transfusion of 1.9 ± 0.4 U. For the endometriosis case, the mean TT was 7.0 ± 0.8 g, with a mean transfusion of 1.9 ± 0.5 U. Analysis showed no difference in practice based on years of SGO membership or practice setting. Conclusion: A majority of the gynecologic oncologists surveyed offers transfusion at levels of anemia similar to ACP recommendations, but frequently transfuse more units than recommended. A substantial minority does not follow the guidelines at all.
Evaluation of active thermal control options for Space Station

An analysis of various Space Station (MSS) active thermal control systems options under consideration because of their potential low weight, efficiency and reliability is reported. The study addressed ordinary and diode-action body mounted radiators, thermal storage, the area and pumping power requirements for single-phase cooling of cold plates, and single-phase and two-phase active cooling loops. The base configuration considered was a core MSS formed by four habitable modules on which are mounted heat pipe radiators articulated to be always edge-on to the sun. A simulation was performed which accounted for the available heat sinks, several thermal loads and the heat rejection capability. No benefits were found with diode-action radiators if the solar absorption is 0.1 or less, although diode-action heat pipes will maintain a higher level of performance in the presence of coating degradation. Thermal storage becomes important only with radiator coating degradation. Water can be up to three times as efficient as Freon as a heat transfer medium. Finally, single-phase cooling offers a lower system mass than two-phase cooling if varying temperature heat loads can be accommodated.
Habenular α5 nicotinic receptor subunit signalling controls nicotine intake

Genetic variation in CHRNA5, the gene encoding the α5 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit, increases vulnerability to tobacco addiction and lung cancer, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Here we report markedly increased nicotine intake in mice with a null mutation in Chrna5. This effect was 'rescued' in knockout mice by re-expressing α5 subunits in the medial habenula (MHb), and recapitulated in rats through α5 subunit knockdown in MHb. Remarkably, α5 subunit knockdown in MHb did not alter the rewarding effects of nicotine but abolished the inhibitory effects of higher nicotine doses on brain reward systems. The MHb extends projections almost exclusively to the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN). We found diminished IPN activation in response to nicotine in α5 knockout mice. Further, disruption of IPN signalling increased nicotine intake in rats. Our findings indicate that nicotine activates the habenulo-interpeduncular pathway through α5-containing nAChRs, triggering an inhibitory motivational signal that acts to limit nicotine intake.
Effect of thermal annealing induced by p-type layer growth on blue and green LED performance

Abstract We investigated the electrical and structural qualities of Mg-doped p-type In 0.01 Ga 0.99 N and GaN layers grown under different growth conditions by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. It was found that we obtained a lower hole concentration and rough surface by reducing the growth temperature down to 930 °C in the case of p-GaN. A slight improvement of the hole concentration was obtained for Mg-doped In 0.01 Ga 0.99 N grown at 840 °C, but this was accompanied by pit formation on the surface. In 0.19 Ga 0.81 N/GaN and In 0.25 Ga 0.75 N/GaN multiple-quantum-well (MQW) light-emitting diodes (LED) with such different p-layers were also grown. It was found from photoluminescence studies that the optical and structural properties of the MQW in the LED structure were improved by reducing the growth temperature of the p-layer due to reduced thermal annealing effect of the active region during p-layer growth. However, it was also found the electroluminescence intensity was lower for the LEDs with p-In 0.01 Ga 0.99 N layers grown at 840 °C.
Short-Term Outcomes of Ablation Therapy for Hepatic Tumors: Evidence from the 2006–2009 Nationwide Inpatient Sample

Background Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of hepatic tumors has been increasingly used across the United States. Whether treatment-related morbidity has remained low with broader adoption is unclear. We conducted this study to describe in-hospital morbidity associated with RFA for hepatic tumors and to identify predictors of adverse events in a nationally representative database.
Complexity of focal spikes suggests relative epileptogenicity.

Summary: The EEGs of 39 children with focal or multifocal spikes were subjected to singular value decomposition (SVD) as provided by a commercial software program. We noted that in children with spikes but no clinical seizures the variance accounted for by the first component averaged 91.9%, whereas in children with seizures it was 68.0% (p < .001). The first component accounted for 85.4% in children with single spike foci, for 71.5% in those with multifocal spikes, and for 61.4% (p < 0.002) in those with both focal spikes and generalized spike-wave complexes. Spikes in the frontal and frontopolar areas were the most complex, suggesting that at least in children they tend to be the partial expression of a generalized seizure tendency rather than a result of strictly local pathology.
Experimental observation of a ''convective cell'' in electron phase space in an inductively coupled radio-frequency plasma

Spatially resolved two-dimensional Langmuir-probe measurements of energy-resolved electron fluxes have been performed in an inductively coupled radio-frequency plasma. A flux pattern reminiscent of a “convection cell” in energy-configuration space has been observed. The measurements are interpreted in terms of a total-energy picture of the plasma electrons.
Building temporal structures in a layered multimedia data model

The Layered Multimedia Data Model (LMDM) aids in the specification of multimedia compositions by dividing the problem into smaller, more manageable pieces. In this paper we describe the lower two layers of the LMDM, the Data Definition Layer, which allows the specification of multimedia objects in a database, and the Data Manipulation Layer, which allows the specification of temporal structures built from those objects. Several examples demonstrate the advantages of the layered paradigm: simple specifications, and modular, reusable components.
The power of the prize: How an emerging prize culture helped shape journalistic practice and professionalism, 1917–1960

This historical analysis considers the role the Pulitzer Prizes played in shaping modern journalistic practices by helping determine standards of quality for newspapers. Using entry and jury materi...
Multi-summer climatology of cumuli at SGP site: vertical structure

We perform a case study for estimating the impact of the vertical distribution of cloud fraction on the normalized cloud radiative forcing (CRF) using a decade-long (2000-2009) high resolution dataset of cloud macrophysical and radiative properties. This dataset is developed for fair-weather cumuli (FWC) observed at the U.S. Department of Energy's Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Southern Great Plains (SGP) site. The design of the case study reduces effects associated with non-cloud factors, such as the diurnal changes of aerosol loading and solar zenith angle. The results of the case study suggest that the impact of the vertical cloud structure can be substantial. Therefore, taking into account the vertical distribution of clouds would be beneficial for more comprehensive parameterizations aimed to portray the complex interactions between clouds and radiation more accurately.
Foaming polystyrene with a mixture of CO2 and ethanol

Use of mixtures of blowing agents in thermoplastic foam extrusion has been an industrial practice for a long time. However, it has gained renewed interest in the past few years due to the introduction of difficult-to-process alternative gases, targeted as potential replacement for the banned ozone-depleting blowing agents. Reasons for blending physical foaming agents (PFA) are numerous. The incentives may be economical, environmental, or technical. With respect to that latter factor, blending suitable PFAs is often regarded as providing a better control of processing conditions. For example, a specific PFA could be selected for its inflation performance and blended with other co-blowing agents chosen for their stabilizing role. Although a considerable amount of work has been done in that area, very little information has been disclosed in open literature.Carbon dioxide (CO2) has been reported as an interesting candidate for low-density polystyrene (PS) foaming, although the required concentrations are ass...
Sediment problems in lake mead and downstream on the Colorado River

This paper gives an outline of the effects on the regimen of the river only in part foreseen, which were produced by the construction of Hoover Dam on the great sediment-carrying Colorado. The effects fall in two categories: (1) The many phenomena that occur in an arid region when a great lake, more than a hundred miles long and in places more than 600 feet deep, storing almost two and one-half average years' yield of the watershed, is created within a few years. The phenomena have to do with the distribution within the volume of the reservoir of the great incoming sediment load, with the travel of the incoming water through the stored volume, of the stratification of the lake due to temperature and salinity, and, finally, to the seismic effect of the great accumulated weight. (2) The phenomena occurring on the river above, and particularly below, the dam when the river bed adjusted to a sediment-laden stream is suddenly forced to accommodate a flow of clear water, and when the yearly fluctuations of flow from flood to drouth are changed to an almost steady discharge. The sedimentation survey of Lake Mead, formed by Hoover Dam, undertaken in 1947–1950, yielded, for the first time, precise data on the travel and deposition of sediment, on the circulation of the water within the lake, and on the general subsidence of the Earth's crust caused by the weight of the water. The paper gives an outline of the main results of the survey pending the publication of a complete report. The paper also gives an outline of the 20 years' accumulation of data on the regimen of the Colorado River below Hoover Dam the changes which have taken place because of the construction of the dam, and the physical work which has been executed and is still in progress so as to help the river to adjust itself to the new conditions.
Anionic-zwitterionic mixed micelles in micellar electrokinetic chromatography: sodium dodecyl sulfate-N-dodecyl-N,N-dimethylammonium-3-propane-1-sulfonic acid.

A zwitterionic surfactant, N-dodecyl-N,N-dimethylammonium-3-propane-1-sulfonic acid (SB-12), was used in combination with an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), to form a novel pseudostationary phase for use in micellar electrokinetic chromatography. This mixed micellar system was characterized in terms of analyte retention, selectivity, efficiency, elution range, and resolution; and compared to results obtained using only SDS. A typically used SDS concentration, 20 mM, was chosen as a reference to which comparisons could be drawn. With 20 mM SDS, the optimum concentration range of 10–20 mM SB-12 provided efficiencies that were 2–4 times greater than with SDS alone, with minimal (<15%) changes in the elution range and electroosmotic flow. The addition of 40 and 60 mM SB-12 also resulted in efficiencies on average of 600 000–800 000 theoretical plates/m, but at a significant reduction in the elution range and peak capacity. Retention factors (k′) for the various neutral analytes increased by 20% with addition of 10 mM SB-12 and by approximately 60% with addition of 40 and 60 mM SB-12, while operating currents remained constant as SB-12 was added. Geometrical isomers p-nitrotoluene and m-nitrotoluene, that co-eluted with 20 mM SDS, were baseline resolved with the addition of 10 mM SB-12; in addition, methylene selectivity was greatest at this composition. No capillary wall interactions or coating effects were observed with the SDS—SB-12 mixed micellar system, in contrast to previously studied anionic—non-ionic mixed micellar system, SDS—Brij 35. Consequently, migration times were very repeatable (⩽ 1.2% R.S.D.).
Teaching about Family Law: Activities for the High School Classroom

(1993). Teaching about Family Law: Activities for the High School Classroom. The Social Studies: Vol. 84, No. 3, pp. 122-130.
Market assessment of industry and firm earnings information

Abstract This study examines the timing of security returns associated with industry-wide earnings and firm-specific earnings. We predict and find that returns associated with differences in performance across industries begin and end earlier than returns associated with differences in firm-specific performance within industries. To earn abnormal profits, a trading strategy based on forecasts of future earnings would require earlier predictions of industry-wide earnings than of firm-specific earnings.
Lipoxygenase as a versatile biocatalyst

This review of lipoxygenase and lipoxygenase pathway enzymes focuses on the potential for the efficient production of useful compounds. Although the existence of lipoxygenase has been inown for many years, only recently has there been progress toward understanding the conditions required to improve yields and immobilize its activity. Maintaining a high O2 tension is necessary to obtain good yeilds of hydroperoxides; whereas, partial anaerobic conditions can lead to hydroperoxide decomposition. Fatty hydroperoxides, obtained from lipoxygenase action, can serve as precursors for further transformation by either enzymes or chemical reactions. Well over one-hundred products from lipoxygenase-generated hydroperoxides of linoleic acid alone have been described. Examples will be given of the formation of fatty acids with epoxide, hydroxy, ketone, cyclic, and multiple functional groups. The cleavage of fatty hydroperoxides into short-chain aldehydes and alcohols also will be described. Many of the products have biological activity, suggesting a significant physiological function for lipoxygenase.
Age-related changes in expression and activity of DNA polymerase α: some effects of dietary restriction

DNA polymerase alpha (pol alpha) purified from human diploid fibroblasts (HDF) and from livers of C57BL/6N mice showed age-related decreases in: (1) mRNA levels; (2) the amount of enzyme isolated per cell; and (3) enzyme activity (HDF); as well as: a) the amount of enzyme isolated; b) the specific activity; and c) the enzyme fidelity (liver). Hepatic pol alpha from dietary restricted (DR) mice exhibited less of a decline in specific activity and copied synthetic DNA templates with relatively higher fidelity than did enzymes from animals fed ad libitum (AL). Pol alpha from fetal-derived HDF exhibited increased expression compared with aged donor-derived HDF, with both fetal and old cell pol alpha in normal cells being expressed at lower levels than in their transformed cell corollaries. Treatment of human pol alpha from aged donor-derived HDF with a pol alpha accessory protein isolated from log phase murine cells resulted in increased pol alpha binding of DNA and increased pol alpha activity. However, highly active pol alpha isolated from fetal-derived or transformed HDF, or from transformed murine cells, showed little or no activity enhancement in the presence of accessory protein. These data indicate that, as a function of increased age, there is a decrease in pol alpha expression and specific activity in HDF, as well as decreases in specific activity and fidelity of pol alpha in essentially amitotic murine hepatic tissues. Dietary restriction impedes the age-related declines in both activity and fidelity of hepatic pol alpha in mice. The data further indicate that transformation of slowly dividing HDF is associated with increased expression of pol alpha, but suggest that increased expression alone is not sufficient to explain the difference in polymerase activity levels between parental and transformed HDF. Lastly, the data suggest that interaction of pol alpha with an essential accessory protein may be altered as a function of age, an alteration that appears to be correlated with the decline in pol alpha DNA binding and specific activity.
Comparison of Observed Retroreflectivity Values with Proposed FHWA Minimums

Until recently, no federal guidance existed on the retroreflectivity of highway signs, and the replacement policy has been left to the discretion of local officials. FHWA has now published a proposed set of minimum retroreflectivity requirements for traffic signs. The proposed minimum retroreflectivity values published by FHWA were compared with retroreflectivity values observed from signs with ASTM Type III sheeting in the state of Indiana. Research found that approximately 4% of signs scheduled for removal in 2000 or 2001 were below the proposed FHWA minimums. Having different retroreflectivity minimums for different speeds and sign sizes unnecessarily complicates the proposed minimums. Using the single most conservative retroreflectivity value for each color would be sufficient.
Dynamical Studies Of A Temperature-Sensitive Mutant Of The Tryptophan Repressor Protein, L75F-TrpR

The overall research goal of these NMR dynamic studies is to enhance our knowledge of the dynamical properties of the tryptophan repressor (TrpR) protein and to establish the origin of flexibility changes that take place in TrpR mutants which exhibit conservative single point amino acid replacements that lead to altered L-trp and/or DNA binding properties.A second objective is to understand how differential flexibility modulates L-tryptophan (L-trp) co-repressor binding to TrpR, and may be at the origin of the non-local long-range effects observed in the temperature-sensitive (ts) mutant of the tryptophan repressor protein, L75F-TrpR, which cannot simply be rationalized by small structural changes in the 3D fold of L75F-TrpR when compared to the 3D structure of wild-type (WT) TrpR.We have undertaken 15N NMR relaxation studies to investigate the motional properties of backbone amides in the apo and L-trp bound (holo) forms of L75F-TrpR in solution and to compare the dynamical properties of mutant TrpR to that of wild type repressor. We have identified interesting differences between the flexibility profile of WT-TrpR vs. L75F-TrpR. The overall picture that emerges is that although both proteins exhibit similar ps-ns motion patterns for many residues in the core helices (i.e. helices A, B, C, and F) differences are detected in the DNA binding region (i.e. helix D-turn-helix E motif).
Treating VOC-Contaminated Gases in Activated Sludge: Mechanistic Model To Evaluate Design and Performance

A mechanistic model based on independently measurable mass transfer and biokinetic parameters was developed to describe the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contained in air sparged into activated sludge (suspended growth) gas treatment reactor. The critical mass transfer parameters are the VOC mass transfer coefficient (Klavoc), VOC Henry's coefficient (H) and diffusion coefficient in water, gas flow rate per unit reactor area, and liquid depth. The Klavoc is equal to the oxygen Kla (KlaO2) multiplied by the ratio of the VOC to oxygen diffusivity coefficients in water raised to the power n. Depending on the system power intensity, n ranges from 0.5 to 1.0; 1.0 provides a conservative design. Biokinetic parameters of importance include the Monod coefficients, biomass yield and endogenous decay coefficients, and solids retention time (SRT). The model accurately predicted BTEX removal from air diffused into a 2-L, 40-cm deep lab-scale reactor. Based on the model, a 2-m deep gas treatment reactor...
Multimodal imaging of growth and rapamycin-induced regression of colonic adenomas in apc mutation-dependent mouse.

We demonstrate that rapamycin can induce regression of adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) mutation-dependent colonic adenomas in genetically engineered mice (CPC;Apc). An endoscope was used to visualize adenomas in CPC;Apc mice weekly for 10 weeks. The lesion surface areas were measured using a distance gauge and digitally generated grid. Coronal scans were performed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to localize adenomas, and tumor volumes were measured from regions of interest drawn on consecutive axial scans. Rapamycin (5 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally daily for 5 weeks. Endoscopy and MRI were performed weekly to monitor adenoma regression. Caliper measurements and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed on adenomas postmortem. Dimensions from n = 30 adenomas in n = 7 animals were measured. Adenoma surface areas on endoscopy correlated with volumes on MRI and with postmortem caliper measurements, R2 = 0.84 and R2 = 0.81, respectively. The mean adenoma doubling times on endoscopy and MRI were 0.95 ± 0.14 and 1.21 ± 0.16 weeks, respectively. The minimum detectable adenoma surface area and volume on endoscopy and MRI was 0.69 mm2 and 1.76 mm3, respectively. On histology, the rapamycin-treated adenomas showed limited regions of dysplasia. Rapamycin therapy resulted in much lower mammalian target of rapamycin signaling and cell proliferation. Lower expression of phospho-S6 and reduced numbers of Ki67-positive cells were seen on IHC compared to vehicle-treated lesions. Endoscopy can be validated by MRI as a robust methodology for quantitative monitoring of therapy, representing a promising approach for future preclinical efforts to assess utility of novel colorectal cancer prevention strategies.
An analysis of proposed U.S. Navy Shipborne waste handling practices to address MARPOL Annex V provisions

In 1987, the United States ratified Annex V of the MARPOL Protocol. Under the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act of 1987 (P.L. 100–220), the U.S. Navy was ordered to observe the MARPOL Annex V provisions for solid waste disposal at sea by 1994. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 (P.L. 103–160), however, allows some U.S. Navy vessels until December 31, 2008 to comply. In accordance with Annex V, disposal of any solid waste is to be prohibited in designated Special Areas—the Antarctic Sea, Baltic Sea, Black Sea, Wider Caribbean Region (which includes the Gulf of Mexico), Mediterranean Sea, Middle Eastern Gulfs Area (which includes the Persian Gulf), North Sea, and Red Sea. The U.S. Navy is considering new waste‐handling procedures in the hope that overboard discharge of nonhazardous solid wastes will meet the primary objectives of Annex V and, in particular, will be acceptable in the Special Areas. This plan would require a continued exemption for the U.S. Navy from A...
Early gene response to hepatic ischemia reperfusion.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to define the differences in heat shock protein (hsp)70, albumin, α 1 -acid glycoprotein (AGP), and CCAAT enhancer binding proteins (C/EBP) α and β mRNA between hepatic ischemia and reperfusion, and to begin to explore C/EBP protein production. These genes have been found important in the hepatic response to lipopolysaccharide and inflammation. In two experiments, Sprague-Dawley rats underwent temporary occlusion of the median and left hepatic lobe vasculature. The first experiment included a single sham-operated group and ligation of the right hepatic lobes during reperfusion. It compared 30 and 60 min ischemia to 2 h reperfusion. The second experiment included a sham-operated group for every time point, and the right hepatic lobes were not ligated during reperfusion; a 30-min ischemia group was compared to 2-, 5-, and 24-h reperfusion groups. Total RNA from the ischemic lobes was analyzed by Northern hybridization for hsp70, albumin, AGP, and C/EBPα and β. C/EBPα and β proteins were compared by Western blotting. Differences in experimental design played an important role in interpretation of results. hsp70 mRNA began to increase during ischemia. Albumin mRNA remained constant during ischemia and reperfusion. The ischemic hepatocyte nucleus is not quiescent and retains the ability to upregulate certain genes, e.g., hsp70. Changes in mRNA in response to hepatic ischemia/reperfusion occur rapidly. Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion does not recapitulate the classic acute phase response; albumin is not downregulated during reperfusion.
Neuronal and behavioral correlations in the medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens during cocaine self-administration by rats.

Up to 31 neurons per animal were simultaneously recorded from the medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens in 15 rats during i.v. cocaine self-administration sessions, using a multi-channel, single-unit recording technique. Alterations of neuronal activity (both excitatory and inhibitory) were found a few seconds before each lever press for cocaine infusion; we have called these pre-lever press neuronal activations "anticipatory responses". A detailed video analysis revealed that these neuronal firing alterations were associated with specific portions of the behavioral sequence performed before each lever press in both recording areas. Some of the simultaneously recorded neurons displayed similar firing patterns in relation to a given behavioral episode within the behavioral sequence (turning, raising head, etc.), while others fired at different times relative to each behavioral event. Cross-correlational analyses revealed inter-regional and intra-regional correlated firing patterns between pairs of simultaneously recorded medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens neurons. This correlated firing occurred in the neurons with and without anticipatory responses, although the incidence of correlations between anticipatory neuron pairs was much higher than that between non-anticipatory neuron pairs (18.4% vs 3.6%). Many correlated neuron pairs displayed a time lag in the peak of correlational activity that indicated a temporal sequence in correlated activity. In contradiction to our hypothesis, the temporal pattern of correlation reveals that there are more cases in which nucleus accumbens neurons fired ahead of medial prefrontal cortex neurons. The results suggest that multiple mesocorticolimbic neuronal circuits may code sequential steps during the behavioral sequence performed to obtain an infusion of cocaine. The observed correlated firing between the medial prefrontal cortex and the nucleus accumbens indicates that dynamic, coherent activity occurs within the mesocorticolimbic circuit. Because this circuit is hypothesized to drive drug-seeking behavior, we suggest that this correlated firing between the nucleus accumbens and the medial prefrontal cortex may participate in the control of cocaine self-administration. In addition, the finding that correlated activity within the nucleus accumbens more often precedes that of the medial prefrontal cortex suggests that the nucleus accumbens may play a prime role in the initiation of cocaine self-administration.
Mechanical instabilities in the b.c.c. lattice and the beta to omega phase transformation

Abstract The beta to omega phase transformation in certain titanium and zirconium alloys can be accomplished formally by subjecting the b.c.c. lattice to a transverse sinusoidal displacement wave of wave vector 1 3 〈112/t>, crystallographically equivalent to a 1 3 〈111〉 longitudinal wave. The instability of this particular mode corresponds to negative eigenvalues of the dynamical matrix of the “average” b.c.c. crystal in the vicinity of the point 1 3 〈112〉 in the first Brillouin zone. By mapping out the regions of negative eigenvalues, one can reproduce the essential features of electron diffraction patterns obtained from asquenched Zr-Ti alloys. The positions and shapes of the ω reflections and the corresponding diffuse intensity are predicted correctly.
Do varicoceles really affect male fertility

Varicoceles account for up to 40% of male factor infertility, yet nearly two-thirds of men with varicoceles are fertile. What’s a clinician to do? Two things, really: Understand what causes varicoceles and appreciate the benefits of repair.