cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Light scattering in brain slices measured with a photon counting fiber optic system.

Measurements of intrinsic optical signals (IOSs) from neural tissue, commonly with a reflection-type or transmittance-type set-up, have been used increasingly to study physiological events. Even for the same event, however, such as spreading depression (SD) or osmotic challenge, signals of opposite polarities (increase or decrease) have been obtained by different investigators using similar set-ups under similar conditions. The origin of the inconsistencies is still unknown. It is suggested here that the inconsistencies may be caused by artifacts associated with tissue surface scattering. The main goal of this paper was to present a photon counting fiber optic (PCFO) system designed to exclude surface artifacts and predominantly measure the light scattering (LS) within the tissue. Experiments on rat neocortical slices under osmotic challenges demonstrated the consistency of the PCFO data: hypertonic challenge always increased LS signal while hypotonic challenge decreased it, as long as the challenge did not induce SD. Under strong osmotic challenge (−100 mOsm), the signal suddenly reversed the polarity at the onset of SD induced by the challenge and continued to increase until the challenge was removed. When SD was blocked by high [Mg2+]o, the LS signal remained decreased during the −100 mOsm challenge. A spectroscopic study with the PCFO system showed that the spectrum of tissue scattering was almost a flat function in most of the visible range (650–470 nm) with a maximum at 500 nm and a rapid drop at 450 nm.
High-power, widely-tunable Cr 2+ :ZnSe master oscillator power amplifier systems

We demonstrate high-power Cr2+:ZnSe master oscillator power amplifier (MOPA) pure continuous wave (CW) laser systems with output power of 14 W and amplifier gain greater than 2X. In addition, we develop a theoretical model for this type of amplification and show single-knob tunability at high powers over 400 nm.
The fate of the label during gluconeogenesis from [1-14C]pyruvate in isolated rat liver

Abstract When livers from fasted rats were perfused with [1- 14 C]pyruvate, the mean ratios of specific radioactivities were: phosphoenolpyruvate to malate, 0.42 (S.D., 0.06; N = 6), 3-phosphoglycerate to malate, 1.15 (S.D., 0.17; N = 6); and 3-phosphoglycerate to phosphoenolpyruvate, 2.86 (S.D., 0.70; N = 6). Aspartate was labeled to such a limited extent relative to malate as to make it appear an insignificant intermediate in the conversion of pyruvate to glucose. These observations fail to support current concepts of gluconeogenesis from pyruvate and are consistent with the view that undiscovered enzyme reactions or compartmentation phenomena, or both, are also operative.
Electrofluidic Gating of a Chemically Reactive Surface

We consider the influence of an electric field applied normal to the electric double layer at a chemically reactive surface. Our goal is to elucidate how surface chemistry affects the potential for field-effect control over micro- and nanofluidic systems, which we call electrofluidic gating. The charging of a metal-oxide−electrolyte (MOE) capacitor is first modeled analytically. We apply the Poisson−Boltzmann description of the double layer and impose chemical equilibrium between the ionizable surface groups and the solution at the solid−liquid interface. The chemically reactive surface is predicted to behave as a buffer, regulating the charge in the double layer by either protonating or deprotonating in response to the applied field. We present the dependence of the charge density and the electrochemical potential of the double layer on the applied field, the density, and the dissociation constants of ionizable surface groups and the ionic strength and the pH of the electrolyte. We simulate the responses...
Constraint forces in holonomic mechanical systems

Abstract Constraint forces play important roles in the dynamic formulation of mechanical systems. In robotic and locomotion systems, implementing, maintaining, and deliberately violating contact and support conditions require either on-line sensing of constraint forces or indirect computation of them. In this paper three different methods for calculating constraint forces are compared with respect to computational complexity and accuracy, and computation time. In the first two methods, the nonlinear constraint equations and the system dynamic equations are combined such that the resulting set of equations is uniquely solvable for the constraint forces. In the third method, the mechanical system is embedded in a higher-dimensional state space, chosen in such a way that the constraint equations are linear in the new state of the system. Consequently the computation of the constraint forces simplifies. The complexity of the three methods and the computation time for a particular computer can be inferred from an operation count. The accuracy of the individual method is estimated by providing an upper bound of the relative error and the relative residual of the computed constraint forces.
On structure and spin Hamiltonian parameters of exchange-coupled ion pairs

Abstract The parameters in the spin Hamiltonian of isolated exchange-coupled paramagnetic ion pairs are derived through the application of the Wigner-Eckart theorem. The results are applied to two cases that have been studied experimentally. It is shown that for the axially symmetric ions, there is only one geometric configuration for a pair which will result in an isotropic ESR spectrum. The structure predicted from the ESR data of one such Cu 2+ ion pair in Cu 2+ -Y zeolites agrees completely with X-ray findings.
A batch membrane reactor for laboratory studies

A membrane reactor consisting of two recirculating flow systems connected via a membrane module has been constructed and used to study the dehydrogenation of cyclohexane. When the reactor is operated differentially it is possible to obtain the same information that is generated when using more conventional steady flow reactors. The batch system has the advantages of easily varying the ratio of membrane area to reactor volume and sampling a very wide range of effective Damkohler numbers. These are important variables in design studies. This ability has been demonstrated for the dehydrogenation of cyclohexane. The batch system reproduced results from studies using a more conventional flow reactor. In addition, with the batch reactor it was possible to experimentally confirm predictions that were based upon computer simulation but which were outside the range of experimental study for the conventional reactors used.
DIELECTRIC-BARRIER DISCHARGE INITIATED GRAFTING TO ENHANCE FIBER CHARGE

ABSTRACT This study examines the use of dielectric-barrier discharge (DBD) treatment for in situ grafting of maleic acid, sorbic acid, succinic acid, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid onto a fully bleached kraft paper (BKP). Conductometric titrations and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis indicated that DBD treatment facilitated in situ grafting of maleic acid onto BKP fibers in a heterogeneous fashion. However, little incorporation of succinic acid or 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and no incorporation of sorbic acid was detected. No changes to the amount of maleic acid grafted to the fiber were seen with increased DBD treatment intensity.
Student Scholarship Competition Manuscripts: Relevance, Rigor, and Promise

I am very pleased to introduce two articles by winners of the 1999 Society for Clinical Trials (SCT) student scholarship competition. The competition was initiated and funded by the late Thomas Chalmers for the 1985 SCT meeting and has been held annually ever since. The first chair of the Student Scholarship Committee was Curt Meinert, followed by Frank Rockhold and Ted Karrison. I took over the chair from Ted in 1995 and retired from it and the committee after the 1999 meeting. In its current form three entrants are selected on the basis of the proffered three-page “extended abstracts.” The winners are then invited to present their results at the next SCT meeting, with all expenses paid, and are asked to submit complete manuscripts. The following articles are edited versions of these. Based on the manuscripts and presentations, the Student Scholarship Committee awards a further cash prize which is named after Dr. Chalmers in honor of his founding role. Information about entering can be found at the society’s website: ,,http://www.sctweb.org/... The stated goal of the competition is to encourage student interest in the society. I can affirm by observation (if readers will forgive anecdotal evidence in this journal) that it is successful—I know active members, myself among them, whom it introduced to the society. If nothing else, the competition allows three students each year to attend one meeting, learn about the range of research in clinical trials, and have others learn of their research. But I believe that further benefits are entailed. Many winners are from overseas. They gain contacts with society members even if they are not able to consistently attend future meetings. All entrants (and this year there are thirty!) learn that research in clinical trials is a viable and valued option for them, a point that is not always communicated in the occasionally rarified atmosphere of graduate education. Lastly, benefits to meeting attendees should not be minimized. Student presentations are among the most innovative and carefully prepared they are likely to see. The articles by Brian Wiens and Debashis Ghosh in this issue are examples of research which ought to be of interest to clinical trial practitioners. I believe their most important characteristic, as indicated by its place in the title of this commentary, is relevance. Each development addresses important aspects of the current conduct of clinical trials. For example, Ghosh discusses the analysis of trials in which outcomes may be repeated. For some areas in which randomized trials have the longest history, such as cancer,
Intergallery Living Polymerization Using Silicate-Anchored Photoiniferter. A Versatile Preparatory Method for Exfoliated Silicate Nanocomposites

Living free radical polymerization of a variety of monomers using dithiocarbarmate photoiniferter modified silicate gave dispersed polymer/silicate nanocomposites, even for nanocomposites with very high silicate contents (7−63 wt %). Thus, nanocomposites containing polystyrene, poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(tert-butyl methacrylate), and poly(methyl methacrylate-b-styrene) of controlled molecular weight, architecture, and polydispersity were prepared. Dispersion and random orientation of the silicate layers in the polymer matrix were confirmed by both wide-angle X-ray diffraction and transmission (TEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). One principal finding is that exfoliated nanocomposites with very high silicate contents (above 20 wt %) could be used as nanoadditives or masterbatches to prepare all kinds of nanocomposites by simple blending without always having to begin from scratch. The exfoliation remained stable to subsequent thermal processing. The storage modulus of PMMA/silic...
Analysis of operation delay and execution rate constraints for embedded systems

Constraints on the delay and execution rate of operations in an embedded application are needed to ensure its timely interaction with a reactive enviroment. We present a static analysis of the timing constraints satisfiability by a given system design consisting of interacting hardware and software components. We use this analysis to evaluate the effect of individual timing constraints on system design issues, such as the choice of the software runtime system, bounds on loop, invocations, and the hardware-software synchronization operations. We show, by example, the use of static analysis techniques in the design of embedded systems.
An allele of the mouse mutant dystonia musculorum exhibits lesions in red nucleus and striatum.

Abstract A spontaneously occurring allele of the mouse mutant dystonia musculorum exhibits pathology in the brain as well as in the dorsal root ganglia. In every mutant examined coarse neurons of the red nucleus (which give rise to the rubrospinal tract) exhibited pathological features. In addition, generally less severe and somewhat asymmetric abnormalities occurred in the striatum. Thus, the motor abnormalities seen in the animals may be attributable to multiple pathological alterations.
Global Optimization for Multiple Transmitter Localization

We propose a global optimization approach to locating multiple transmitters within a geographic area. A set of sensor nodes are assumed to be present in the region and to measure total power received at their respective locations. These measurements are communicated to a processing node, which uses particle swarm optimization to find the transmitter locations that minimize the difference between the true received power and the estimated power based on the chosen propagation model. Clustering is used to generate initial estimates of the transmitter locations, thereby increasing the likelihood that the particle-based optimizer reaches the global minimum. Simulation results show that global optimization is an effective method for multiple transmitter localization and that generating "smart" initial conditions via clustering can yield an average performance improvement of over 25% compared to random initial conditions.
Nematode development: Evolutionary detours of a pivotal cell

The anchor cell plays a central role in organizing the reproductive structures of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Recent studies show that significant alterations in the origin, function and fate of this key regulatory cell have occurred during the course of nematode evolution.
Influence of display, task, and organismic variables on indices of monitoring behavior

Abstract The effects of a number of variables known to influence monitoring behavior are reviewed. The principal models for such behavior are considered in the light of the findings. It is suggested that all of these have merit in explaining some of the data and that none of them satisfactorily explain all of them.
A continuous-review inventory model with random disruptions at the primary supplier

Abstract We consider a continuous-review inventory problem for a retailer facing constant customer demand for a single product. This retailer is assumed to follow the well known and widely used order-up-to policy in making replenishment decisions, and can order from two suppliers who differ in reliability and costs. Supplier 1, the primary supplier, is cheaper, but is subject to random disruptions. Supplier 2, the backup supplier or the contingent source, is more expensive, but is perfectly reliable. If Supplier 1 is available when the inventory level at the retailer reaches the reorder point, the retailer orders from Supplier 1. Otherwise, it will wait for a while to see if Supplier 1 can recover from the disruption quickly. If so, it will still get replenishment from Supplier 1 to take advantage of its lower charge. However, the retailer will reroute to the backup supplier if Supplier 1 still does not recover from the disruption when the cap of waiting (the maximal waiting time of the retailer if Supplier 1 is disrupted) is reached. We analytically study the optimal sourcing and replenishment decisions at the retailer, and the impacts of various problem parameters on the optimal decisions. We also conduct extensive numerical experiments to compare different sourcing and replenishment decisions the retailer can make and get further managerial insights into the problem.
Products That Kill and Corporate Social Responsibility: the Case of U.S. Defense Firms.

Scholars of corporate social responsibility (CSR), which refers to the responsibilities of a firm to society in four domains: economic, legal, ethical, and discretionary, have typically excluded defense firms from their research, mainly on ideological grounds. This study challenges these assumptions and measures the CSR orientations of managers of defense firms. The findings reveal the orientations of defense firm managers to be consistent with those of other corporate populations, though the highly regulated environment of defense contracting causes some differences. The findings help to redeem the social standing of defense firms, and by implication, their employees and the military members who use their products, from unwarranted antimilitary biases.
Inactivation of serine: glyoxylate and glutamate: glyoxylate aminotransferases from tobacco leaves by glyoxylate in the presence of ammonium ion

Serine:glyoxylate and glutamate:glyoxylate aminotransferases (SGAT and GGAT), which catalyze the formation of glycine from glyoxylate during photorespiration, have been purified >300-fold from tobacco leaf extracts. Incubation with glyoxylate in the absence of amino acid substrate resulted in the time- and concentration-dependent inhibition of the partially purified enzymes. The second order rate constants for glyoxylate inhibition were 1.25 and 0.175 per millimolar per minute for SGAT and GGAT, respectively. The enzymes of highest specific activity were not inhibited by 5 millimolar glyoxylate alone but when 1 millimolar NH(4) (+) was added to 1 millimolar glyoxylate for 10 min in the absence of amino donor, SGAT was irreversibly inhibited more than 50%. GGAT was inhibited 50% in 10 minutes by 15 millimolar NH(4) (+) and 1 millimolar glyoxylate. By itself, NH(4) (+) was a reversible inhibitor; SGAT and GGAT were inhibited 50% at 6 millimolar and 50 millimolar, respectively. The irreversible inhibition occurred only with glyoxylate and NH(4) (+) added together; oxalate, formate, acetaldehyde, pyruvate, hydroxypyruvate, and alpha-ketoglutarate did not inhibit either in the presence or absence of NH(4) (+). Glyoxylate and NH(4) (+) could form a carbinolamine which is a serine analog and might bind irreversibly to the enzymes. Under conditions in vivo in which reassimilation of NH(4) (+) is reduced or blocked, the activity of SGAT may be inhibited and if glyoxylate is available, as in leaf peroxisomes, irreversible inhibition may occur.
Somnambulistic actions during the sleep with slow EEG waves

An neun Schlafwandlern wurden 48 ganznachtige EEG- und Verhaltensbeobachtungen durchgefuhrt. 65 mal wurde Aufrichten und Aufsitzen, 9 mal vollstandiges Aufstehen und Gehen beobachtet. Alle diese somnambulen Handlungen geschahen wahrend der Schlafstadien 2, 3 und 4, und hatten keine zeitliche Beziehung zu den paradoxen Schlafphasen (Stadium 1 mit raschen Augenbewegungen).
Temporally inhomogeneous scattering theory

A theory of scattering for the time dependent evolution equations dudt = iHj(t)u, j = 0, 1 (∗) is developed. The wave operators are defined in terms of the evolution operators Uj(t, s), which govern (∗). The scattering operator remains unitary. Sufficient conditions for existence and completeness of the wave operators are obtained; these are the main results. General properties, such as the chain rule and various intertwining relations, are also established. Applications include potential scattering (H0(t) = −Δ, Δ denoting the Laplacian, and H1(t) = −Δ + q(t, ·)) and scattering for second-order differential operators with coefficients constant in the spatial variable (Hj(t) = ∑m, k = 1n amk(j)(t)(∂2∂xm ∂xk) + bj(t) for j = 0, 1).
The groups of order 128

Abstract For any positive integer N , there are a finite number of non-isomorphic groups of order N . This paper deals with the 2358 groups of order 128. Their classification into families is presented, with the number of groups in each family and some of their properties.
Tree-ring evidence of past climatic variability

The increasingly visible impact of climatic variability on human affairs lends a sense of urgency to the task of better understanding the workings of the Earth's climatic system. Actual instrumental observations of climate are relatively short, and we must therefore turn to other sources for information about past climates to help develop and test the models that may enable us to predict climatic anomalies such as prolonged droughts or a series of severe winters. Tree -rings are one of the best sources of climatic proxy information. They can provide long, accurately dated, year-by-year records at many points around the globe, and bridge the gap between recent instrumental or historical data and the longer but more generalised geological records. Variations in the width of annual rings reflect the influence of climatic factors that limit the biological processes governing ring formation within a tree. Study of reconstructions of long records of a variety of climatic and related variables, such as temperature, precipitation, stream runoff and barometric pressure over periods of several hundred to several thousand years strongly suggests that the climate of the past century or so is not representative of the conditions that have frequently prevailed over long periods. Proxy records are thus a great help in our efforts to anticipate or predict future climate, which may be significantly different from the recent climatic past.
Culture studies of Ruppia maritima L. in bicarbonate- and sucrose-based media

Abstract Media were compared for culture of the estuarine plant Ruppia maritima L. The best inorganic nutrient amendment was based on f/2 basal enrichment salts in artificial seawater. Using f/2 basal enrichments, Ruppia maritima could be grown in media where either bicarbonate or sucrose was provided as the major carbon source. The cytokinin 2iP (6[γ,γ-dimethylallylamino]-purine) stimulated more growth than BA (N6-benzylaminopurine) in sucrose-based cultures. There was no significant effect of cytokinin addition in cultures growing in a bicarbonate-based medium. The addition of five vitamins did not improve growth. In an f/2 medium with bicarbonate as the carbon source, a pH of 7.5 appears to be adequate. Use of f/2 nutrient salts resulted in more growth than f/4 nutrients. These data suggest that the seagrass R. maritima grows well in a completely inorganic medium. Ruppia maritima appears to show physiological characteristics of an opportunistic species: minimal nutritional requirements and no requirements for complex exogenous growth substances. Cultures of this seagrass would be useful for a number of physiological, biochemical and environmental restoration studies.
Programming language support for replication in fault-tolerant distributed systems

Replication is the primary means of achieving high availability in fault-tolerant distributed systems. Multicast or group communication is a useful tool for expressing replicated algorithms and constructing highly available systems. But programming language support for replication and group communication is uncommon.This position paper discusses three language constructs---functional mapping, iterators, and streams---that can be used for replicated communication at the programming language level. These mechanisms are evaluated using a set of essential and desirable properties.
Lichen photosynthesis in relation to CO2 concentration

Photosynthetic CO2 dependencies were measured for six lichen species, representing a variety of morphologies and collected from widely different habitats. All curves exhibited a linear increase in photosynthesis with increasing CO2 concentrations at the lower range of CO2 values, but little photosynthetic variation with increasing CO2 concentrations at the upper range of CO2 values. Half maximal CO2 concentration estimates varied from 147–440 μl CO2·l1, but had broadly overlapping confidence intervals. We conclude that lichen CO2 dependencies are basically similar to those reported for higher plants and discuss the reasons why widely varying results have previously been published.
Quantum scattering time and its implications on scattering sources in graphene

We determine the quantum scattering time ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{q}$ in six graphene samples with mobility of $4\text{ }400l\ensuremath{\mu}l17\text{ }000\text{ }{\text{cm}}^{2}/\text{V}\text{ }\text{s}$ over a wide range of carrier density $(1.2lnl6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{12}/{\text{cm}}^{2})$. ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{q}$ derived from Shubnikov--de Haas oscillation ranges $\ensuremath{\sim}25--74\text{ }\text{fs}$, corresponding to a single-particle level broadening of 4.5--13 meV. The ratio of the transport to quantum scattering time ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{t}/{\ensuremath{\tau}}_{q}$ spans 1.5--5.1 in these samples, which can be quantitatively understood combining scattering from short-ranged centers and charged impurities located within 2 nm of the graphene sheet. Our results suggest that charges residing on the ${\text{SiO}}_{2}$ surface play a dominant role in limiting carrier mobility in current samples.
Complexity at the junction

[Comment on An et al, page 1284][1]In this issue of Blood , An and colleagues demonstrate the interesting finding that depletion of the junctional complex protein tropomyosin from erythrocyte membranes leads to membrane instability. The erythrocyte membrane is a remarkable structure with unique
STEREOSELECTIVE PREPARATION OF THE ENDO-2-PHOSPHORUS SUBSTITUTed BICYCLO[2.2.1]HEPTANE SYSTEM

The secondary phosphonate ester endo-2-(diethoxyphosphoryl)bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane 6 was prepared in stereoselective fashion for the first time by hydrogenation of 2-(diethoxyphosphoryl)bicyclo[2.2.1...
Extracytoplasmic Stress Responses Induced by Antimicrobial Cationic Polyethylenimines

The ability of an antimicrobial, cationic polyethylenimine (PEI+) to induce the three known extracytoplasmic stress responses of Escherichia coli was quantified. Exposure of E. coli to PEI+ in solution revealed specific, concentration-dependent induction of the Cpx extracytoplasmic cellular stress response, ~2.0–2.5-fold at 320 μg/mL after 1.5 h without significant induction of the σE or Bae stress responses. In comparison, exposure of E. coli to a non-antimicrobial polymer, poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), resulted in no induction of the three stress responses. The antimicrobial small molecule vanillin, a known membrane pore-forming compound, was observed to cause specific, concentration-dependent induction of the σE stress response, ~6-fold at 640 μg/mL after 1.5 h, without significant induction of the Cpx or Bae stress responses. The different stress response induction profiles of PEI+ and vanillin suggest that although both are antimicrobial compounds, they interact with the bacterial membrane and extracytoplasmic area by unique mechanisms. EPR studies of liposomes containing spin-labeled lipids exposed to PEI+, vanillin, and PEO reveal that PEI+ and PEO increased membrane stability, whereas vanillin was found to have no effect.
On Shannon's Almost Uniform Distribution

This report describes a new digital differential analyzer (DDA) technique for computing equations of the form f(x)=c/x (c=constant), which was developed to solve a problem posed by the Systems Laboratory. The major advantages of this new method over conventional DDA methods are: a much smaller truncation error because only one integration is performed, and reduced size of the equipment, since it requires only one Y register and one time-shared adder.
Systematic implications of sesquiterpene lactones in the subtribe melampodiinae

Abstract Within the tribe Heliantheae of the Asteraceae, the genetic boundaries of the subtribe Melampodinae have recently been drastically revised by Stuessy. The number of genera within the subtribe has been reduced and new generic groupings have been established. The present study correlates the distribution of sesquiterpene lactones found in these genera with the newly revised subtribal boundaries. The genera Acanthospermum, Melampodium, Polymnia and Sigesbeckia produce predominantly melampolide-type sequiterpene lactones. Limited chemical data support Stuessy's removal of the genera Desmanthodium, Clibadium and Ichthyothere from the subtribe Melampodiinae. The occurrence of melampolide-type sesquiterpene lactones in members of the genera Tetragonotheca (Helianthinae) and Enhydra (Ecliptinae) indicate a possible position of these genera in the Melampodiinae.
Molecular basis of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a malignant arrhythmia syndrome linked to mutations in the cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2) and calsequestrin (CASQ2). RyR2 and CASQ2 are parts of the multimolecular Ca2+ release channel complex that is present on the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) to support myocyte Ca2+ cycling and contractile activity. Whereas RyR2 operates as a Ca2+ release channel, the SR Ca2+ binding protein CASQ2 plays a dual role by serving as a SR Ca2+ buffer and by regulating RyR2 function. Essential to stable Ca2+ cycling, SR luminal Ca2+-dependent control of RyR2 activity by CASQ2 contributes to RyR2 deactivation and to the development of a temporary refractory state that occurs after each Ca2+ release. Accumulating evidence suggests that the CPVT mutations act by reducing the extent and shortening the duration of Ca2+ signaling refractoriness, thereby promoting untimely SR Ca2+ release and arrhythmogenic delayed afterdepolarizations in cardiac myocytes. Similar mechanisms may apply to arrhythmias during various conditions, including heart failure and ischemic heart disease, associated with acquired defects in components of the Ca2+ release channel complex.
Fenestration of a Gore Helex Septal Occluder device in a patient with diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle.

We report successful deployment of a fenestrated Helex Septal Occluder in a 46-year-old lady with a moderate-sized secundum atrial septal defect and elevated left-ventricular end diastolic pressure secondary to renovascular hypertension. Initial balloon occlusion of the defect lead to significant rise in left atrial pressure. Creation of a 4-mm fenestration offered controlled decompression of the left atrium while reducing the atrial shunt considerably. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cardiac rehabilitation exercise and self-care for chronic heart failure.

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is highly prevalent in older individuals and is a major cause of morbidity, mortality, hospitalizations, and disability. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) exercise training and CHF self-care counseling have each been shown to improve clinical status and clinical outcomes in CHF. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of CR exercise training alone (without counseling) have demonstrated consistent improvements in CHF symptoms in addition to reductions in cardiac mortality and number of hospitalizations, although individual trials have been less conclusive of the latter 2 findings. The largest single trial, HF-ACTION (Heart Failure: A Controlled Trial Investigating Outcomes of Exercise Training), showed a reduction in the adjusted risk for the combined endpoint of all-cause mortality or hospitalization (hazard ratio: 0.89, 95% confidence interval: 0.81 to 0.99; p = 0.03). Quality of life and mental depression also improved. CHF-related counseling, whether provided in isolation or in combination with CR exercise training, improves clinical outcomes and reduces CHF-related hospitalizations. We review current evidence on the benefits and risks of CR and self-care counseling in patients with CHF, provide recommendations for patient selection for third-party payers, and discuss the role of CR in promoting self-care and behavioral changes.
Federal budget deficits, interest rates, and international capital flows: A further note

Abstract This note empirically examines the impact of federal budget deficits on the nominal long term rate of interest in the United States. The analysis adopts a loanable funds model that includes net international capital inflows. The analysis allows for endogeneity of the capital flows variable and also allows for the Federal Reserve policy shift of October,1979–October, 1982. The instrumental variables estimate finds that federal deficits do raise the long term nominal rate of interest, despite the effects of capital flows, which dampen the interest rate impact of the federal deficit.
On the Utilization of the Escape Phenomenon to Realize New Mass Detectors

In this work, we demonstrate the concept of a new type of mass sensor detector. The detector is designed to act as a switch that is triggered if the measured mass exceeds a threshold value. The basic idea of the proposed switch is based on utilizing the escape phenomenon that the nonlinear electrostatic force introduces to the dynamics of a capacitive microcantilever. The detector is excited electrostatically with a frequency near the primary or the sub-harmonics (twice the natural frequency) resonances a way from the instability frequency band (escape phenomenon). By absorbing a threshold mass of a target material, the natural frequency of the cantilever will change in a way that it starts to oscillate in the unstable zone and hence hits the substrate. This action could be utilized to activate, for example, an alarming system indicating that the measured material has exceeded the allowable threshold mass (concentration) value.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Mechanical Circulatory Support

1. Emery, RW, Joyce LD. Directions in cardiac surgery. J Cardiac Surg 1991;6:400-14. 2. Goldenberg IF. Nonpharmacologic management of cardiac arrest and cardiogenic shock. Chest 1992;102:596S-616S. 3. Rowles JR, Mortimer BJ, Olsen DB. Ventricular assist and total artificial heart devices for clinical use in 1993. ASAIO J 1993;39:840-55. 4. Sapirstein JS, Pae WE Jr, Rosenberg G, Pierce WS. The development of permanent circulatory support systems. Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1994;6:188-94. 5. Griffith BP, Guest editor. The Third International Conference on Circulatory Support Devices for Severe Cardiac Failure. Ann Thorac Surg 1996;61:281-498. (This supplement contains the proceedings of the symposium.)
The GATA factor Serpent cross-regulates lozenge and u-shaped expression during Drosophila blood cell development

The Drosophila GATA factor Serpent interacts with the RUNX factor Lozenge to activate the crystal cell program, whereas SerpentNC binds the Friend of GATA protein U-shaped to limit crystal cell production. Here, we identified a lozenge minimal hematopoietic cis-regulatory module and showed that lozenge-lacZ reporter-gene expression was autoregulated by Serpent and Lozenge. We also showed that upregulation of u-shaped was delayed until after lozenge activation, consistent with our previous results that showed u-shaped expression in the crystal cell lineage is dependent on both Serpent and Lozenge. Together, these observations describe a feed forward regulatory motif, which controls the temporal expression of u-shaped. Finally, we showed that lozenge reporter-gene activity increased in a u-shaped mutant background and that forced expression of SerpentNC with U-shaped blocked lozenge- and u-shaped-lacZ reporter-gene activity. This is the first demonstration of GATA:FOG regulation of Runx and Fog gene expression. Moreover, these results identify components of a Serpent cross-regulatory sub-circuit that can modulate lozenge expression. Based on the sub-circuit design and the combinatorial control of crystal cell production, we present a model for the specification of a dynamic bi-potential regulatory state that contributes to the selection between a Lozenge-positive and Lozenge-negative state.
An on-line method for the determination of lead and lead isotope ratios in fresh and saline waters by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Abstract A previously reported on-line ICP-MS method for the determination of lead and other trace elements in seawater has been re-examined to determine its suitability for the determination of lead isotope ratios (206Pb/207Pb and 207Pb/208Pb) in fresh and saline natural waters. A detection limit of 0.9 ng l for total lead (for a 5 ml sample) was achieved. Precision of isotope ratio data was 0.2–0.3% RSD at a Pb concentration of 1 μg l , and was still better than 2% at concentrations of only 10–40 ng l in seawater certified reference materials (CRMs). For all three natural water CRMs examined, measured precision was very close to the limit predicted by counting statistics.
Epoxy bond and stop-etch (EBASE) technique enabling backside processing of (Al)GaAs heterostructures

Abstract The epoxy bond and stop-etch (EBASE) technique enables both the frontside and the backside processing of very thin (∼3000A) GaAs/AlGaAs epitaxial layer structures. Using this technique, a conventionally processed epitaxial layer structure is inverted and epoxied to a new host substrate. The original substrate is removed leaving only the original epitaxial structure expoxied to the host substrate. The exposed backside of the epitaxial structure may then be processed. Because the structures fabricated using this technique are so thin, mesas, Schottky gates, and ohmic contacts may be defined in close proximity both above and below the active device layers.
On the minimax solution of multiple linear-quadratic problems

Multiple linear-quadratic problems are studied. A set of coupling Riccati equations is derived for vector-valued-cost-to-go. A minimax solution of multiobjective convex problems is proven to be an equalizer strategy. This permits the development of a new algorithm for finding the minimax solution for multiple linear-quadratic problems. >
Driving anger: correlates and a test of state-trait theory

A survey and field study evaluated predictions from state-trait theory applied to driving anger. Trait driving anger, the propensity to become angry when driving, correlated positively with anger in frequently occurring driving situations and in day-to-day driving and with aggressive and risky behaviors while driving. Although not correlated with crash rates or moving violations, trait driving anger correlated with crash-related conditions such as loss concentration, loss of vehicular control, and close calls. Results generally supported predictions from state-trait theory and the construct validity of the Driving Anger Scale, as well as mapping correlates of the disposition to become angry while driving.
Reaction-times of methadone treated ex-heroin addicts.

The reaction-times (r.t.'s) of 18 male and 9 female out-patients under treatment with methadone for heroin addiction, were compared with those of control subjects who were either non-drug users or had recently been withdrawn from narcotic drugs. Three different r.t. tests were used: a simple visual, simple choice and a multiple discrimination, multiple choice r.t. The median r.t.'s of subjects tolerant to average doses of 100 mg of methadone per day were either equal to or shorter than those of control subjects. Analysis of the data revealed that the source of r.t. differences may be ascribable to superior signal detection or possibly decision time (pre-motor components) rather than limb transport time components of the total reaction-time.
A note on the Ewald-Oseen extinction theorem

Abstract The Ewald-Oseen extinction theorem is derived in a new and general form that is applicable to any medium. The usual form of the extinction theorem appears as a special case of the general formulation. It is shown that the extinction theorem is a consequence of the Helmholtz-Kirchhoff integral theorem.
Sorption Nonlinearity for Organic Contaminants with Diesel Soot: Method Development and Isotherm Interpretation

An experimentally practical and precise flocculation-based method was developed, tested, and applied to determine phenanthrene and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene sorption with NIST SRM 2975 diesel particulate matter. Following an initial equilibration period, polyaluminum chloride (PACI) solution was added to the sorption tubes in order to facilitate the formation of flocculated aggregates of soot particles. After separation of the solids through centrifugation, supernatant concentrations were determined as with conventional batch methods. The flocculation-based method was tested on three kinds of soot and then used to evaluate sorption kinetics and equilibrium with SRM 2975. Kinetic results showed that wetting of the soot required more than 20 days, but that 60 days was sufficient to achieve equilibration with both water and phenanthrene. Sixty-day isotherms for both phenanthrene and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene were strongly nonlinear. At approximate 10(-3) of solubility, carbon-normalized distribution coefficients (Koc) were 10-20 times higher than those for absorption to sediment organic matter. Measurements at closer to solubility indicated much lower Koc, suggesting a total sorption capacity at aqueous solubility that is of similar magnitude to that in sediment organic matter. Independent analysis of extractable hydrocarbons suggests that absorption into a native hydrocarbon phase was not a major component of sorption.
Teaching psychotherapy outcome research methodology using a research-based checklist

Contemporary psychotherapy has been besieged by demands calling for evidence of its efficacy and for greater accountability of those who practice it. Thus, it u important for students to understand the special methodological problems associated with this type of research and to appreciate the important link between research and practice. This article summarizes a checklist of guidelines I use to teach students the basics of psychotherapy outcome research in several courses (e.g., abnormal, clinical, and even introductory psychology). The checklist is research-based and draws on techniques employed in recent representative psychotherapy outcome research studies. I suggest several variations in the pedagogical use of the checklist. Student evaluations support the usefulness of the checklist as a teaching tool
Hepatic resection for metastatic neuroendocrine carcinomas

Background Metastatic neuroendocrine malignancies frequently cause incapacitating endocrinopathies, and metastases predominant in the liver. Hepatic resection of metastases from such tumors is attractive because the natural history of neuroendocrine tumors is protracted, clinical severity of the endocrinopathy correlates with tumor volume, and local and intrahepatic growth characteristics often allow complete resection. Patients and methods To define the role of hepatic resection for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors, the records of 74 patients who underwent hepatic resection for such tumors between 1984 and 1992 were reviewed. Neuroendocrine tumors were classified by site of origin and clinical endocrinopathy. Survival, and type and duration of symptomatic response, were assessed as the major outcomes of this study. Results There were 50 carcinoid, 23 islet-cell, and 1 atypical neuroendocrine tumors. Resections included 36 hemihepatectoinies or extended hepatectomies and 38 nonanatomic resections. Thirty-eight primary tumors were resected concomitantly. Perioperative mortality was 2.7% and morbidity was 24%. Four-year survival was 73%. Overall postoperative symptomatic response rate was 90% with a mean duration of response of 19.3 months. Conclusions Hepatic resection for metastatic neuroendocrine malignancies is safe, provides effective palliation, and probably prolongs survival.
U.S. Mental Health Policy: Addressing the Neglect of Asian Americans

Although Asian Americans are proportionally the fastest-growing ethnic group in the United States, federal mental health policies have neglected their special needs. U.S. federal mental health policy has shifted in the past 50 years from an emphasis on increasing accessibility to treatment to improving the quality of care and focusing on the brain as the basis of mental illness. However, the mental health needs of Asian Americans have been a relatively low priority. Myths about Asian Americans that have led to the general neglect of their mental health needs are that they: (a) are a small group; (b) are a successful group and do not experience problems; and (c) do not experience mental health disparities. Nevertheless, Asian Americans are a significant proportion of the population which experiences acculturative stress and discrimination that are often associated with psychopathology. However, Asian Americans who experience psychopathology are less likely than other groups to use mental health services. Political efforts must be made to get Asian Americans into positions of leadership and power in which they can make decisions about mental health policy priorities.
Measurement of intracranial pressure in children: a critical review of current methods

Assessment of intracranial pressure (ICP) is essential in the management of acute intracranial catastrophe to limit or actively reduce ICP. This article provides background information and reviews the current literature on methods of measuring ICP in children. Indications for ICP measurement are described for children with traumatic brain injury, shunt insertion or malfunction, arachnoid cyst, craniosynostosis, and prematurity. Various methods of ICP monitoring are detailed: non-invasive, indirect (lumbar puncture, visual-evoked potentials, fontanelle compression, and optic nerve sheath), and direct assessment (ventricular cannulation, and epidural, subdural, and intraparenchymal devices). Normal levels of ICP will depend on the age and position of the child during monitoring. This article provides clinical and research-based evidence in this area where there is currently limited guidance.
History, Commemoration, and Belief: Abraham Lincoln in American Memory, 1945-2001

Ever since Maurice Halbwachs's pioneering work, most scholars have been content to explore collective memory through texts and commemorative symbolism. Assuming that a study of collective memory ha...
The Year in Review: Rheumatology:

Pharmacologic management of rheumatoid arthritis has been a subject of extensive research within the last several years. Novel nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have entered the arena offering e...
A comparison of ionization-chamber and water-calorimeter dosimetry for high-energy x rays.

The temperature-regulated, flexible, water calorimeter developed in the authors' laboratory was shown previously to yield a dose-to-water from 4-MV x rays that is in very close agreement with ionization measurements made in accordance with the AAPM dosimetry protocol. The range of beam energies for this type of comparison has been increased to include {sup 60}Co, and 4-, 6- and 25-MV x rays. The grand mean of the ratios of doses obtained from the calorimeter and ionization chamber, the Cal/Ion ratio, for the four beam energies studied is 1.001{plus minus}0.001. As no significant trend with beam energy was detected, it is concluded that the calorimeter and ionization chamber yield equally accurate results. Because the calibration of the calorimeter depends solely upon the accuracy with which water temperatures in the range 2--10 {degree}C can be measured, and dose is given by the product of the specific heat of water and the temperature change produced by irradiation, the water calorimeter has the potential to place radiation dosimetry on a much firmer foundation than presently exists.
Infrared spectroscopy of the Li+(H2O)Ar complex: the role of internal energy and its dependence on ion preparation

The internal energy or effective temperature of cluster ions has become an important issue in characterizing the structures observed in these species. This report considers the role played by the method of ion preparation (laser vaporization—supersonic expansion versus ion impact—evaporative cooling) in governing the internal energy of a specific species, Li+(H2O)Ar. Vibrational predissociation spectroscopy of the O–H stretch modes revealed rotational features, which were used to characterize the structure and effective rotational temperature of the cluster ion. In addition, the impact of the lithium ion on the H2O molecule was analyzed in terms of the vibrational frequency shifts, relative IR intensities, and H2O geometry.