cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Delayed complication secondary to unsuccessful deployment of the StarClose device

ABSTRACT The introduction of vascular closure devices (VCD) such as the StarClose device, has been an innovative step in interventional procedures. Earlier post-procedure ambulation, reduced hematoma formation, the time to hemostasis and the need for blood transfusion have been achievable. 1 Few case reports describe complications following deployment of the StarClose device, resulting in acute ischemia. Here we present a unique case of unsuccessful deployment of the StarClose device in a patient following an elective right superficial femoral artery angioplasty, resulting in delayed deterioration of the patient's symptoms, necessitating surgery months after the initial intervention.
Humility, Not Doubt: A Reply to Adam Kobler

In Punishment and Moral Risk, Professor Adam Kolber argues provocatively that reasonable retributivists lack the requisite certainty to justify the infliction of criminal punishment. Specifically, he maintains that the familiar “beyond a reasonable doubt” (“BARD”) standard for a criminal conviction sets a high bar for certainty that should also inform our confidence levels about the morality of punishment. To meet this “justificatory standard of proof,” according to Kolber, retributivists must have very high confidence in a series of supporting propositions that constitute the retributive justification — that people generally have free will; that the infliction of punishment by the state is an appropriate response to wrongdoing; and that we can realistically analyze a person’s background to determine what punishment is deserved. In addition to these general propositions, Kolber contends, the retributivist must also be highly confident that a specific defendant’s conduct was wrongful; that law enforcement and judicial proceedings in the defendant’s case were generally just; and that the defendant’s punishment is proportional and not excessive relative to the benefits of inflicting it. Kolber’s project serves as a sensible reminder about the need for moral humility in the domain of criminal justice. As Jeffrie Murphy has observed, “If we can overcome our comforting self-deceptions about our own wisdom and goodness, we will surely realize how limited are our cognitive powers to read the heart of another and how great is our potential for evil . . . .” But whereas Murphy sought to counter the tendency for arrogance and smugness to infect our institutions of punishment — a too-ready willingness to adopt an us-them mentality toward offenders — Kolber aims to undermine retributivism altogether by miring it in doubt and uncertainty. In what follows, I take issue with several aspects of Kolber’s argument, focusing especially on the nature of moral truth and moral responsibility. In particular, I argue that Kolber has made a kind of category mistake by attempting to apply mathematical confidence levels to various moral propositions, that he misunderstands the significance of controversy in evaluating moral truth, and that he misjudges the relevance of the free-will determinism debate for moral responsibility. Finally, in response to Kolber’s suggestion that retributivism might be saved from obsolescence by combining it with consequentialism in a “portfolio of beliefs,” I argue that this concedes too much to the consequentialist worldview. A duly humble retributivist need not succumb to the allure of Kolber’s dubious algorithms.
Effects of different sodium salts and nitrogen sources on the production of 3-hydroxybutyrate and polyhydroxybutyrate by Burkholderia cepacia

The effects of NaCl, Na2SO4, Na2HPO4, and Na3C6H5O7 on the production of 3-hydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxybutyrate, and by-products by Burkholderia cepacia. Proper addition of Na3C6H5O7 can significantly promote the production of 3-hydroxybutyric acid and polyhydroxybutyrate. The concentration, productivity, and yield of 3-hydroxybutyrate were increased by 48.2%, 55.6%, and 48.3% at 16 mM Na3C6H5O7. The increases of 80.1%, 47.1%, and 80.0% in the concentration, productivity, and yield of polyhydroxybutyrate were observed at 12 mM Na3C6H5O7. Na2SO4 and Na2HPO4 also have positive effects on the production capacity of 3-hydroxybutyrate and polyhydroxybutyrate within a certain range of concentration. NaCl is not conducive to the improvement of fermentation efficiency. Compared with a single nitrogen source, a mixed nitrogen source is more conducive to enhancing the production of 3-hydroxybutyrate and polyhydroxybutyrate.
Inclusive Education for Students with Hearing Impairmentin Pakistan: Communication & Socialization Challenges at Higher Education

Inclusive higher education is a way to protect the academic rights of young students with hearing impairment. Multiple challenges faced by students with hearing impairment (SWHI) at the higher education institutes (HEIs) affect the inclusive higher education in Pakistan. This study used a questionnaire to explore the challenges faced during communication and socialization by SWHI in the HEIs.Inclusion in Pakistan's HEIs is a recent phenomenon for all persons with hearing impairment (HI); however, HEIs are not wholly prepared to meet this challenge. Studies reported that SWHI face multiple problems in HEIs worldwide during admission, learning, social adjustment, and assessment. There are a few HEIs in Punjab, Pakistan offering admission to SWHI. So, it is highly desirable to highlight the opinion of teachers and students about the communication and socializationproblems of SWHIin these HEIs. Descriptive research method was used to collect data from 48 teachers and 246 SWHI studying in the HEIs ofPunjab, Pakistan. Census sampling technique was used to gather the data; moreover, the differences in the opinions of teachers and students were measured using the t-test. The findings of the study highlighted that SWHI enrolled in various programs facecommunication and socialization problems, such as the non-availability of sign interpreters and note-takers and the lack of direct communication with teachers.
The Thermal State of Earth's Core

Earth9s core consists of a molten outer layer surrounding a solid inner core, but models suggest that earlier in Earth9s history, the core was completely molten. In his Perspective, Buffett discusses the current knowledge of heat flows at the core-mantle boundary, which drive Earth9s magnetic field. Today9s heat flows are reasonably well understood, but the thermal history of Earth9s core remains unclear. To determine when Earth9s core solidified, better knowledge of the partitioning of radiogenic elements and more reliable estimates of the power requirements for Earth9s magnetic field are required.
Evaluation of Regression Analysis Based Building Hourly Thermal Load Prediction Algorithms Under Climate Change

This study presents performance of two ARX (auto-regressive with exogenous, i.e., external, inputs) building hourly thermal load prediction models under influence of climate change. ARX building thermal load prediction models are of particular interest not only for their higher prediction accuracy but also for computational efficiency. Precise thermal load prediction is a significant aspect of energy planning for mixed energy distribution systems in regional and national level as well as in intelligent building energy management and control. However, in order to ensure reliability, prediction models should be able to account for influence from climate change in the upcoming years. Performance and robustness of the models over five consecutive years have been evaluated. A case study with medium office reference building in Atlanta, GA has been carried out to demonstrate prediction accuracy of both models over the period utilizing a widely accepted building energy simulation software. Results have been evaluated using statistical criteria to quantify the effect of climate change on prediction accuracy.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Chapter 4 Growth and development in trade models

Publisher Summary Growth and development are used interchangeably. Growth has the connotation of simply more of everything, while development is taken to refer to some qualitative transformation or structural shift. In practice, the development aspect of trade theory arises from the attempt to address problems regarded as of major significance for the less developed countries of the world economy. These have ranged from the infant industry problem of Hamilton and list to the terms of trade problem. The insights and concerns of these critics of orthodox doctrine have led to a number of attempts, sympathetic and otherwise, to handle these issues analytically. This chapter provides an overview on Ricardian theory and considers some neglected aspects of Ricardo's ideas on trade and growth, based on his analysis of the distributive shares. It discusses Arthur Lewis three-good Ricardian model of the terms of trade and Emmanuel's concept of unequal exchange. It also reviews neoclassical theory, which contains the major mainstream literature on growth and trade, with discussions on comparative statics, dynamics, and the concept of immiserizing growth and foreign investment. It also discusses various theoretical aspects of trade and development issues, including analyses of infant industry protection, two-gap models, the open dual economy, and an extensive discussion of recent work on North–South models.
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)

Marriage and family therapies (MFTs) are psychological interventions designed to alter the functioning between two or more individuals within a family. MFTs differ from individual therapies in a variety of ways. Therapeutic processes and outcomes of MFTs are often complex due to the dynamic nature of therapies involving multiple individuals. Family therapies are discussed with regard to the types of problems that can be addressed, therapeutic approaches, and effectiveness of treatments. Marital therapies are discussed with regard to the context of the intimate relationship, therapeutic modalities, and effectiveness of treatments. Moreover, primary, secondary, and tertiary marital interventions are discussed with regard to treatment procedures, foci, and efficacy. Keywords: family; family therapy; love; marriage; therapy
Stability in the Full Two-Body Problem

Stability conditions are established in the problem of two gravitationally interacting rigid bodies, designated here as the full two-body problem. The stability conditions are derived using basic principles from the N-body problem which can be carried over to the full two-body problem. Sufficient conditions for Hill stability and instability, and for stability against impact are derived. The analysis is applicable to binary small-body systems such as have been found recently for asteroids and Kuiper belt objects. In this paper, some classical results from the N-body problem are applied to the problem of two interacting rigid bodies, each with an arbitrary gravity field. Such a problem can serve as a model for the dynamics of a binary small-body system, such as an asteroid or a Kuiper belt object, especially during the early stages of its evolution following a disruptive impact or planetary flyby. The specific interest expressed in this paper concerns the long term stability of the binary against disrup- tion (escape) or impact. Stability against disruption for this problem is essentially Hill stability, and we find sufficient conditions for this stability and sufficient con- ditions for violation of this stability. Necessary conditions are more difficult, and this is explained. In the N-body problem, stability against impact is often related to Lagrange stability which restricts both the positions and velocities of the bodies to be bounded. For interacting point masses, such a restriction guarantees that impact will not occur. However, for rigid bodies with distributed mass, impacts can occur with finite velocity; thus we introduce a definition called stability against impact (SAI). We find sufficient conditions for SAI in the full two-body problem.
On Counterproductive Changes

The Hidden Costs of Clean Election Reform . By Frederic Charles Schaffer . Cornell University Press, Ithaca, NY, 2008. 263 pp. $35, £17.95. ISBN 9780801441158. In this consideration of detrimental effects of election reform, Schaffer discusses both what has gone wrong in the past and what can be done to head off potential problems in future changes.
The Functional Regulation of Finance

How should we think about regulating our dynamically changing financial system? Existing regulatory approaches have two temporal flaws. The obvious flaw, driven by politics and human nature (and addressed in other writings), is that financial regulation is overly reactive to past crises. This article addresses a less obvious flaw: that financial regulation is normally tethered to the financial architecture, including the distinctive design and structure of financial firms and markets, in place when the regulation is promulgated. In order to effectively address future crises, this article argues, financial regulation must transcend that time-bound architecture. This could be done by regulating the underlying economic functions of the financial system — the provision, allocation, and deployment of financial capital — as well as the financial system’s capacity to serve as a network within which those functions can be conducted. The article analyzes how to design and implement such a “functional” approach to financial regulation. Although this approach is primarily normative, it provides regulatory ordering principles that should have practical utility — not only as a set of standards to inform actual regulatory design but also as a counterweight to the prevailing view that macroprudential regulation of systemic risk can be adequately served by an ad hoc assortment of regulatory “tools.”
Positive Correlation Between Pancreatic DNA Damage and Species Specificity in Response to N-Nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine

N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine (BOP), a potent pancreatic carcinogen in hamsters that has failed to induce pancreatic tumors in rats, was studied for its effects on the DNA of both rat and hamster pancreas in order to relate DNA damage (as measured by alkaline elution) to carcinogenicity in vivo. At doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg BOP/kg, extensive DNA damage was detected in male Syrian golden hamster pancreas but Lewis rat pancreatic DNA was not affected. Only at doses of 100 mg BOP/kg or greater could pancreatic DNA damage in the rat be detected. DNA damage was also observed in both rat and hamster livers at 10, 20, and 40 mg BOP/kg. Alkaline elution analysis of DNA from isolated rat and hamster acinar cells treated in vitro with BOP revealed that only hamster acinar cell DNA was damaged. Rat acinar cell DNA was unaffected at all doses examined, up to 200 micrograms BOP/ml medium. Unscheduled DNA synthesis studies in cultured acinar cells confirmed the observations that BOP is genotoxic to hamster but not to rat acinar cells. The results strongly suggested that rat pancreas did not have the ability to metabolically activate BOP, which accounted for lack of both BOP-induced DNA damage and carcinogenicity in the rat.
Reaction of Sodium Aminohippurate with Folin’s Reagent

In the Lowry method for protein, 1 mg of p -aminohippurate gives a color equivalent to 0.6 mg of protein. This method should not be used on fluids from patients receiving p -aminohippurate.
Give your bootstrap the boot: using the operating system to boot the operating system

One of the slowest and most annoying aspects of system management is the simple act of rebooting the system. The sysadmin starts from a known state $the OS is running - and hands the computer over to an untrustworthy piece of software. With enough nodes involved, there is a certain chance that the process will fail on one of them. Bootstrapping is well named - it takes the system down to a low level, from which return is uncertain. It would be much better if we could use the known, trusted OS software to manage the boot process. The OS can apply all its power to the problem of locating, verifying, and loading a new OS image. Error checking and feedback can be far more robust. We discuss five systems for Linux and Plan 9 that allow the OS to boot the OS. These systems allow for the complete elimination of old-fashioned bootstrap.
EXCITATION AND DYNAMICS OF PULSES IN COUPLED FIBER ARRAYS

Abstract We consider a system of nearest neighbor linearly coupled nonlinear Schrodinger equations. The system models a coupled array of optical fibers in the anomalous dispersion regime. In the infinite array case, a sharp power threshold for the excitation of a coupled array soliton (nonlinear ground state) is found. For the periodic array (ring geometry), a soliton is excited for arbitrary values of the power. Coupled array solitons are nonlinearly dynamically stable. As the power increases, the coupled array solitons become increasingly peaked in amplitude, localized on the lattice as well as temporally compressed. As the power tends to infinity, a rescaled limit of the ground state converges to a pure one-soliton. The results provide a mathematical theory for the observations of previous investigators made by computer simulations.
The first elementary particle

The electron is 100 years old this year. Of all the elementary particles, it is by far the most familiar, useful and venerable. But is it elementary? And what other particles are elementary?
Role of mast cell chymase in the extracellular processing of big-endothelin-1 to endothelin-1 in the perfused rat lung

Abstract Previous studies of endothelin-1 (ET) synthesis have shown that some cultured endothelial cells secrete an intermediate product, big-endothelin-1 (bigET), suggesting that the processing of secreted bigET to ET may be physiologically significant. In this study, two pertinent ET converting enzyme activities, mast cell chymase I (EC 3.4.21.39) and a phosphoramidon-sensitive, neutral metalloprotease, were identified in a rat lung particulate fraction. We perfused rat lungs with bigET and chymostatin or phosphoramidon to study the relevance of these two proteases to the processing of extracellular bigET in vivo . Addition of compound 48 80 (a compound which activates mast cells, causing degranulation and release of chymase) to the perfusion buffer greatly increased hydrolysis of exogenously added bigET to ET.ET formation was inhibited completely by 32 μM chymostatin, whereas inhibition by 50 μM phosphoramidon was incomplete and variable. Perfusate histamine levels were used to monitor the extent of mast cell degranulation, and inhibition of ET production by phosphoramidon was attributed to inhibition of degranulation, per se . There was a direct correlation between perfusate ET and histamine levels in both control and phosphoramidon-treated (but not chymostatin-treated) lungs. Our results suggest that chymase from lung mast cells is capable of physiologically relevant extracellular processing by bigET to ET in the perfused rat lung.
RELATIONSHIP OF BIRTHWEIGHT TO RISK OF INFANTILE OBESITY

Data were analyzed on weight-for-height and birthweight of over 17,000 infants age 1 to 24 months in Arizona. Birthweights between 2500 and 3500 grams were associated with a significantly lower risk of obesity (defined as over the 94th %ile of weight-for-helght for age and sex) than lower or higher birthweights. This pattern was especially marked for Black infants and was less marked but also significant (p<.05) for Whites and Spanish-Americans. The relationship did not hold for American Indians, for whom risk of obesity increased linearly with birthweight. Birthweight reflects in part the degree to which the fetal phenotype is buffered against environmental stress. Thus infants whose birthweights are far from the mean may be relative developmental hyper-responders and thus, in an environment which overfeeds, at higher risk of obesity.
Informal and Formal Help-Seeking Decisions of Stalking Victims in the United States

A large body of criminal justice research has investigated the decisions made by system actors, especially police, judges, and prosecutors. A growing area of research interest has focused on the de...
Three new mesoamerican species of Miconia (Melastomataceae)

Miconia centrosperma andM. santaritensis from Panama, andM. stevensiana from Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica, are described, illustrated, and compared with their presumed relatives.
Prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Previous reports have demonstrated that oral mucosa and periodontal lesions occur in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis [UC]). It is unknown whether periodontal disease is an occasional or regular finding in these patients. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The periodontal status of 107 consecutive patients seeking treatment for inflammatory bowel disease was assessed. Examination of the mid- and mesiobuccal aspects of one quadrant on one jaw and the contralateral quadrant of the opposite jaw revealed the 93.5% of the CD patients and 95.1% of UC patients had at least one site with probing attachment loss of 2 mm or greater, and a mean probing attachment loss 1.4 +/- 0.9 mm and 1.5 +/- 1.0 mm, respectively. We found that 28.3% of CD patients and 29.5% of UC patients possessed at least 1 site with a pocket probing depth of 4 mm or greater; the mean pocket probing depth in these patients was 2.4 +/- 0.2 mm and 2.3 +/- 0.2 mm, respectively. Compared with the assessment of Oral Health of United States Adults, IBD patients revealed a 11.9% higher prevalence (P less than or equal to 0.01) but 0.6 mm lower severity (P less than or equal to 0.01) of periodontal disease. The magnitudes of these differences suggest no clinical implications for the management of periodontal disease in IBD subjects.
THEORY OF SURFACE ENHANCED RAMAN SCATTERING : A PROSPECTIVE VIEW

Abstract : Theoretical understanding of the origins of strong Raman signals from molecules near roughened Ag, Cu, and Au surfaces has progressed to the point where the action of two very different types of process are recognized. There is chemical enhancement that is apparent only for chemisorbed species, as for example, specifically adsorbed anions on Ag electrodes. The chemical mechanism is poorly understood, however, ingenious ideas and concepts have been advanced, including localization of electron-hole pair states and optically driven charge transfer between adsorbate and metal, to model aspects of the chemical enhancement. The second and best understood process is the enormous enhancement of the incoming and outgoing radiation fields at the surface resulting from lightening rod geometries and the excitation of localized surface plasmon modes. Calculations show that for special geometries, very high (approximately 1,000,000 - 10,000,000) enhancement factors are possible in confined regions. (Author)
Human tumor models in the severe combined immune deficient (scid) mouse.

Purpose: To test a number of established human tumor cell lines and early passage breast cancer (UACC2150) and melanoma cells (UACC1273) for growth in the scid mouse and the tumors' response to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Methods: Established melanoma (A375, C81-61), colon (SW480), lung (A549), lymphomoblastoid leukemia (LCL-B), promyelocytic leukemia (HL60), prostate (PC-3, DU145), and breast (MCF7) cell lines were injected at subcutaneous (s.c.), intraperitoneal (i.p.), or mammary fat pad (MFP) sites. Tumor volume growth curves and survival curves were established for the various tumor cell lines. Carmustine (BCNU), cisplatin (CDDP), cyclophosphamide (CPA), doxorubicin, dacarbazine (DTIC), tamoxifen and vincristine were injected s.c. or i.p.. The chemotherapeutic drug effects on tumor volumes and survival were determined. Results: Tumor growth occurred with each cell type. After i.p. injection, 90% mortality occurred within 26 to 60 days except for the early passage melanoma cell line UACC1273 with which mortality occurred within approximately 90 days. In the MCF7 breast model, treatment with tamoxifen (P < 0.001) and CPA (P < 0.0001) resulted in significant tumor growth delay compared with control groups. BCNU and CDDP resulted in significant tumor growth delays relative to control in SW480 colon cancer (P < 0.0014) and A375 melanoma (P < 0.0001) models, respectively. CPA and doxorubicin improved survival in the HL60 leukemia model (P = 0.0018). Conclusions: These scid mouse human tumor models appear to reflect the clinical situation in that clinically active chemotherapeutic drugs are similarly active in the scid mouse models. Therefore, the scid mouse models may be useful for testing new chemotherapeutic agents against various human cancer types.
Effect of Algal Exudates on Substratum Selection by Motile Telotrochs of the Marine Peritrich Ciliate Vorticella marina

SYNOPSIS. Several species of marine peritrichs are found as epiphytes on small strands of filamentous green and red algae affixed to the substratum of marine intertidal rock pools. In pools located along the coast of Narragansett Bay, the motile vorticellid telotrochs appear to show a substratum selection for specific algae. Exudation products by marine algae have distinct differences; some Phaeophyta have particularly high values for dissolved organic matter (DOM), and for phenolic compounds. Algal exudates appear to influence population growth of vorticellids. The mean survival percentage of vorticellid populations increased with exposure to exudates from Cladophora gracilis, Polysiphonia harveyi and Polysiphonia lanosa; and decreased with exposure to those of Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus spiralis and Scytosiphon lomentaria. Telotroch settlement of Vorticella marina was enhanced by exudates of Cladophora gracilis, Polysiphonia harveyi and Polysiphonia lanosa, but was reduced by exudates of Ascophyllum nodosum, and was prevented by exudates of Fucus spiralis and Scytosiphon lomentaria. Algal exudates were obtained by allowing photosynthetic activity of the experimental algae for 6 hr. The exudates were filtered and the concentration of DOM, total phenols and carbohydrates determined. The filtered seawater containing the exudate was placed in a box-type plastic dish on which the vorticellids had colonized. Survival percentages and the percentage of population due to telotroch settlement were calculated. This investigation indicates that algal exudates may exert a significant influence on the selection of substrata by vorticellid telotrochs and suggests that the ecologic stability of a given rock pool may be considerably lessened by a high level of Phaeophtya and the consequent reduction of Aufwuchs species.
Advertising budgeting practices in agribusiness: The case of farmer cooperatives

Abstract The present study explores the complex issue of budgeting for advertising by agribusinesses. An empirical study of U.S. diversified and marketing agricultural cooperatives is utilized in this exploratory study. The findings suggest that agribusiness cooperatives tend to utilize the more economic/rational build-up method of advertising budgeting.
Hypothetical stages in the evolution of modern ducks and flamingos

Abstract A re-evaluation of the evolutionary stages in modern ducks and flamingos is permitted by recent discoveries of large concentrations of the Eocene avian fossil Presbyornis pervetus from Wyoming. Presbyornis was originally described as a new family, genus and species of recurvirostrid shorebird. Recent discoveries of nearly complete elements (including the skull) of this species show it to be a mosaic, combining characters primarily of the modem avian orders Charadrii-formes (shorebirds), ducks and allies (Anseriformes), and living flamingos (Phoenicopteriformes). Thus, living flamingos are mosaics, combining characters primarily of the shorebirds and the ducks and allies. Presbyornis is probably a temporal relict (like the anthracosaur Seymouria ), structurally close to the ancestry of both modern ducks and modern flamingos, and was derived from shorebird ancestry.
Practical Solutions for Pumping Tests in Carbonate‐Rock Aquifers

The validity of standard methods of aquifer test analysis as applied to wells in consolidated-rock aquifers has long been a subject of debate. In a recent investigation of the carbonate-rock aquifer in northwestern Ohio, 76 wells were drilled and tested. Control and detailed analysis of such a large number of pumping tests afforded an excellent opportunity to evaluate various techniques. The data from each test were analyzed by the standard analytical methods. The results were viewed with varying degrees of confidence, but realistic values for hydraulic properties usually were obtained. Step-test data were analyzed by three methods of which a graphical solution is preferred. It was believed in most instances that the CQ2. relationship gave an adequate approximation of well loss for the practical range of pumping rates. Once dewatering occurs, the hydraulic response of a given well may change drastically and well-loss computations may give meaningless values. However, the analysis reveals the depth of major water-yielding zones. Step-test data can also be used to predict well yields when drawdown relationships are distorted by dewatering effects. Time-drawdown data are preferred for the determination of hydraulic properties of carbonate-rock aquifers. Data from the pumped well are considered valid for calculating aquifer transmissivity unless dewatering has occurred. Realistic values of transmissivity can be determined by using recovery data wherein distorted relationships caused by dewatering are minimized. The analysis of time-drawdown data from a fully-penetrating observation well provides what are believed to be the most reliable values for aquifer transmissivity and storage coefficient. It is best to employ regional concepts where possible and not become bogged down with minor inconsistencies in the test data.
Planning and Selecting Multiobjective Projects by Goal Programming

ABSTRACT. A multiple goal planning approach is proposed as a solution to the public water resources project selection problem. The goal programming technique enables a comprehensive water resources model. The model considers both economic and environmental objectives and may be implemented with data which are available to project planners.
Evaluation of hemoglobin interference in capillary heel-stick samples collected for determination of neonatal bilirubin

Abstract Objective: In this study, we determined the assay performance criteria necessary to produce acceptable results for ≥ 98% of neonate bilirubin samples collected by capillary heel-stick. Study design and methods: We determined serum free hemoglobin levels in 151 heel-stick serum samples to determine the hemolysis level. We then tested the effect of hemolysis on total bilirubin levels determined by four commercially available assays. Results: The mean level of serum free hemoglobin was 1.62 g/L. Of the serum total bilirubin assays tested, the Total Bilirubin Special (Roche Diagnostics) and the TBILI (Roche Diagnostics) reagents did not show significant interference at the concentrations of free hemoglobin observed in ≥ 98% of heel-stick samples. The Vitros Bu/Bc slide (Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics) showed significant interference only at normal bilirubin concentrations; while the Bilirubin DPD reagent (Amresco Inc.) showed significant interference starting at hemoglobin concentrations of 1.0 g/L. Conclusions: Bilirubin assays that are not sensitive to ∼ 6 g/L free hemoglobin should provide accurate results for most samples obtained via capillary heel-stick. Of the four assays tested, the Bilirubin DPD reagent (Amresco Inc.) was the most susceptible to the presence of free hemoglobin and will result in a higher rejection rate of neonate capillary heel-stick samples.
Waveguiding in polycrystalline GaP grown on SiO2 by molecular beam deposition

Loss measurements at a wavelength of 632 nm are presented for optical waveguides fabricated in polycrystalline GaP grown directly on SiO2. Devices fabricated in poly-GaP on diamond are also shown.
Optimal Therapy for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Blast Crisis: Current Concepts

Abstract The past 4 decades have seen the emergence of multi-agent chemotherapy, intensive AML-type induction therapy, stem cell transplantation, and novel tyrosine kinase inhibitors as potential treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia blast crisis (CML-BC). With the possible exception of allogeneic transplantation in a selected number of patients, none of these treatment strategies have impacted substantially on the dismal survival of CML-BC to date. This article will review the lessons learned from 4 decades of clinical trials in CML-BC and make recommendations for future research directions.
Regulation of lipid droplet-associated proteins following growth hormone administration and feed restriction in lactating Holstein cows.

Abstract Lipid metabolism plays a crucial role in the adaptation of dairy cows to periods of energy insufficiency. The objective of the current study was to determine if lipolytic proteins are consistently regulated when energy mobilization is stimulated by different factors. We evaluated 2 models of altered energy balance in mid-lactation Holstein cows, including feed restriction (FR) and administration of bovine growth hormone (GH), by quantifying the abundance and (or) phosphorylation of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), perilipin (PLIN), and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). For GH administration, adipose tissue and blood samples were collected 4d before and 3 and 7d after administration of GH (n=20 cows). Similarly, adipose and blood samples were obtained 6d before and 1 and 4d after initiation of FR (n=18 cows). Estimated net energy balance decreased and nonesterified fatty acid concentration increased in both experimental models. Decreased ATGL and PLIN protein abundance was observed with GH administration and FR. Additionally, the abundance of phosphorylated HSL Ser565 decreased in both models. Decreased abundance of phosphorylated PLIN was observed with GH administration, but not FR. Decreased ATGL protein abundance appears to be a consistent response to energy insufficiency in lactating cows, as this response was also described with negative energy balance at the onset of lactation. In contrast, the abundance of PLIN protein and phosphorylation of HSL using antibodies targeting serine residue 565 of HSL (HSL Ser565 ) were altered in the current research, but not at the onset of lactation. Our findings demonstrate that lipolysis is altered through the regulation of multiple proteins, and that this regulation differs according to physiological state in lactating cows.
Studies on the neuroendocrine, somatic and behavioral effectiveness of testosterone and its 5α reduced metabolites in Swiss-Webster mice

Abstract In this series of studies we examined the relative potency of testosterone and three of its 5α reduced metabolites using Swiss-Webster mice. Dihydrotestosterone and 3α-androstanediol were found to be more potent in feedback suppression of gonadotropin secretion than testosterone and 3β-androstanediol as assessed by inhibition of ovarian compensatory hypertrophy and by production of testicular atrophy. All four of these androgens were potent stimulators of seminal vesicle growth with dihydrotestosterone > 3 α -androstanedione > 3 β -androstanediol > testosterone. When dissolved in propylene glycol vehicle testosterone was by far the most effective stimulator of male sexual behavior, followed by 3β-androstanediol and finally 3α-androstanediol. Dihydrotestosterone failed to stimulate sexual behavior when dissolved in this vehicle; however, when dissolved in an oily vehicle dihydrotestosterone was nearly as potent as testosterone.
Surface modification of silica nanopowders in microwave plasma

In this work, surface modification of nanopowders in microwave plasma process was demonstrated. In order to obtain silica nanopowder with polymeric coating, a two-step microwave process was designed. 3-Aminopropyltrimethoxysilane was used as the surface modifier. Transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy have been used for the direct microstructural imaging and chemical analysis of surface modified-silica nanopowders. The silica nanopowders were uniformly coated with a thick layer of amino-silane. Surface modification in microwave plasma is a simple, direct and easy to control process without using any solvents. The surface modified-silica nanopowders can be incorporated directly into polymer matrix for the preparation of hybrid nanocomposite materials.
On the solution for the elastic response of involute bodies

Abstract A recent model to treat the elastic response of bodies of revolution possessing axisymmetric material structure, but otherwise arbitrary heterogeneous anisotropic elastic behavior, is examined in detail. Of particular interest is the derivation of the end conditions appropriate to the particular numerical solution technique employed (finite difference) because of the difference between the numbers of field equations and boundary conditions. It is felt that the procedure adopted may have much wider application than the present usage. The response of involute bodies is featured in this work as the illustrative problem of a frustrum of an involute cone under a constant temperature change is considered. A thorough comparison is made between the predictions given by the present model and those from the PATCHES-III finite element code, with generally favorable results.
Mechatronics Laboratory at UMES: A Platform to Promote Synergy in Education and Research Across Disciplinary Boundaries

Mechatronics is the synergistic integration of mechanics, instrumentation and control, software engineering and information technology. As such it integrates well with not only the modern evolution of mechanical engineering curricula but has wide and growing manifestation in the new generation of industrial products as well as children’s toys. The present set-up of the laboratory consists of an industrial SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) robot equipped with machine vision capability for guidance, inspection and recognition associated with robotic manipulation of parts. An open loop stable vibration control platform, an open loop unstable inverted pendulum and a dual water tank system interfaced with appropriate sensors and actuators provide capabilities for learning both analog and digital control of systems belonging to the solid mechanics and fluid mechanics fields. Modern software tools that include graphical programming capability using Simulink and compilation via Real time Windows Target, Real time Workshop (all from Mathworks) and Visual C++ (Microsoft) allow for developing and executing variety of control algorithms on these systems. Capabilities for remote operation of these systems over the internet have also been implemented. The laboratory facilities provide education and research capability at the interfaces of traditional disciplinary boundaries. The laboratory is also equipped with LEGO MINDSTORM and LEGO DACTA products as well as the MIT Handyboard for exploration of mechatronics and robotics activities for prospective engineers and K-12 students.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Sequence Stratigraphy—Concepts and Applications: Norwegian Petroleum Society, Special Publication No. 8

As prefaced by the authors, this special publication of the Norwegian Petroleum Society (NPF) stems from a conference, titled “Predictive High Resolution Sequence Stratigraphy,” sponsored by the society. The first half of the book consists of six studies dedicated to a conceptual overview of sequence stratigraphy and stratigraphic simulation applications and philosophies, while the second half focuses on 12 studies covering high-resolution sequence descriptions relating to the distribution and modeling of hydrocarbon reservoirs in the North Sea basin.While the high-resolution theme is beautifully developed and illustrated in regards to conveying the characteristics of reservoir sands, the supporting modeling studies are somewhat limited, showing a strong emphasis on two-dimensional geometric formulations. Simulations are presented for depositional stratigraphic systems in locales such as the United States, North and Barents Sea basins, and Bangladesh.
Effects of Stimulus Blocking, Light Scattering, and Distortion on Multifocal Electroretinogram

Abstract Purpose: To investigate how the multifocal electroretinogram (ERG) is altered in conditions of blocking, light scattering, or distortion of the stimulus that are seen in ocular pathologies. Methods: A central 40°-diameter stimulus pattern consisting of 61 hexagons was presented on a cathode ray tube monitor at a rate of 75 Hz according to the pseudo-random binary M sequence by the Veris computer program. Localized responses corresponding to each hexagon and ERG topographies were displayed on the computer screen. Central scotoma was simulated by blocking the central area of the stimulus, visual field constriction by blocking the outer area of the stimulus, mild cataract by using acrylic filters that caused light scatter, and epiretinal membrane by using a wavy plastic plate that produced metamorphopsia. Results: The responses from the blocked area were nonrecordable whether blockage was central or peripheral; responses from the adjacent unblocked area had a larger amplitude when large areas of the stimulus were blocked. The light scatter that decreased vision from 20/20 to 20/70 did not significantly decrease response amplitudes. Responses from areas in which the stimulus pattern was distorted were minimally affected. Conclusions: The results show that the system records local ERGs from the macula and outside the macula. It can detect the area where the stimulus is blocked. Moderate light scattering and distortion do not cause loss of local ERG characteristics.
An experimental study of the effect of gas density on the distortion and breakup mechanism of drops in high speed gas stream

Abstract High velocity, gas-assisted liquid drop atomization processes were investigated under well-controlled experimental conditions at elevated gas densities and room temperature. A monodisperse stream of drops which are generated by a vibrating-orifice drop generator was injected into a transverse high velocity gas stream. The gas density and air jet velocity were adjusted independently to keep the Weber numbers constant. The Weber numbers studied were 72, 148, 270, and 532. The range of experimental conditions studied included the three drop breakup regimes previously referred to as bag, stretching/thinning and catastrophic breakup regimes. High-magnification photography was taken to study the microscopic breakup mechanisms in high velocity gas flow fields. When the Weber number is held constant at different gas densities and jet velocities, the results show that the microscopic breakup process is similar, even at high gas densities. At low Weber numbers, the photographs confirmed the existence of the bag breakup regime. The stretching/thinning breakup regime was observed for Weber numbers between 150 and 270. At Weber number = 532, the breakup in the catastrophic breakup regime occurred.
Growth of ZnO films on C-plane (0001) sapphire by pulsed electron deposition (PED)

Abstract Thin films of ZnO on C -plane (0 0 0 1) sapphire (α-Al 2 O 3 ) substrates were grown by pulsed electron beam deposition (PED). Intense electron pulses, approximately 0.8 J/70 ns pulse produced by a channelspark pulsed electron source at a rate of 10 Hz were used to ablate sintered polycrystalline ZnO targets at an oxygen pressure of 15 mTorr. During growth, the sapphire substrate temperature was maintained at 700 °C. A 15 min growth produced a 250 nm film, as measured by a Dektak profilometer. Measurements by X-ray diffraction indicate c -axis oriented films. Cathodoluminescence (CL) data show strong band edge emission. Optical absorption data indicate a sharp band edge with clearly visible exciton absorption at room temperature, and resolved A and B excitons at 77 K. Thus, pulsed electron beam deposition of ZnO films is shown to be a viable technique for producing high quality ZnO films.
Perinatal selenium exposure decreases spontaneous liver tumorogenesis in CBA mice

This study was designed to investigate the influence of neonatal selenium (an anticarcinogenic agent) exposure on spontaneous liver tumor formation in adult mice. Pregnant CBA mice were administered selenium during the last week of pregnancy and for ten days following parturition. Selenium significantly reduced the incidence of spontaneous hepatomas in adult male progeny, while having no effect on the lower hepatoma incidence in adult females. The data indicate that neonatal selenium alters hepatoma incidence in a sex-dependent manner. This study represents the model of neonatal cancer prevention.
Differential regulation of endocannabinoid synthesis and degradation in the uterus during embryo implantation

Preimplantation embryo development to the blastocyst stage and uterine differentiation to the receptive state are prerequisites for embryo implantation. Burgeoning evidence suggests that endocannabinoid signaling is critical to early pregnancy events. Anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine) and 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol) are two major endocannabinoids that bind to and activate G-protein coupled cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. We have previously shown that a physiological tone of anandamide is critical to preimplantation events in mice, since either silencing or amplification of anandamide signaling causes retarded development and oviductal retention of embryos via CB1, leading to deferred implantation and compromised pregnancy outcome. Whether 2-AG, which also influences many biological functions, has any effects on early pregnancy remains unknown. Furthermore, mechanisms by which differential uterine endocannabinoid gradients are established under changing pregnancy state is not clearly understood. We show here that 2-AG is present at levels one order of magnitude higher than those of anandamide in the mouse uterus, but with similar patterns as anandamide, i.e. lower levels at implantation sites and higher at interimplantation sites. We also provide evidence that region- and stage-specific uterine expression of N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and sn-1-diacylglycerol (DAG) lipase alpha (DAGLalpha) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) for synthesis and hydrolysis of anandamide and 2-AG, respectively, creates endocannabinoid gradients conducive to implantation. Our genetic evidence suggests that FAAH is the major degrading enzyme for anandamide, whereas COX-2, MAGL and to some extent COX-1 participate in metabolizing 2-AG in the pregnant uterus. The results suggest that aberrant functioning of these pathways impacting uterine anandamide and/or 2-AG levels would compromise pregnancy outcome.
When Should Endometrial Polyps Be Treated

Endometrial polyps are localized intrauterine overgrowths of endometrial glands and stroma covered by a surface epithelium. They occur singularly or in multiples, may be sessile or pedunculated, and range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size. They are common, present in 7.8%–41% of women. Their detection has increased with the advent of high-resolution transvaginal sonography, saline-infusion ultrasonography, and hysteroscopy. Polyps are encountered in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Many women are asymptomatic, while others present with abnormal bleeding patterns. Most polyps are benign, but hyperplastic and malignant polyps also may occur. Appropriate management of endometrial polyps includes observation, medication, and surgery. Treatment of these lesions should be tailored to each patient based on their symptoms, menopausal status, risk of malignancy, and fertility desires.