cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Short- and long-term impact of an inpatient quality improvement initiative: results of the CABG-GAP Practice Improvement Project.

PURPOSE: A significant percentage of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery leave the hospital without appropriate preventive medications. Little is known about this prevention gap and its solutions. We studied the short- and long-term impacts of a quality improvement (QI) project aimed at reducing this prevention gap. METHODS: A sequential 3-phase QI project was performed in patients undergoing CABG surgery in Olmsted County, MN, from April 2001 to March 2002. In phase 1 (n = 213), cardiovascular surgery team members were given a pocket reminder card with preventive medication guidelines. In phase 2 (n = 182), monthly team feedback reports were added. In phase 3 (n = 199), a "refrigerator magnet" patient reminder card listing prescribed medications was added. A baseline comparison group (n = 305) was selected randomly from patients undergoing CABG surgery in 2000. Patient receipt of preventive medications and all-cause mortality were compared. RESULTS: Prescription of lipid-lowering medications (LLM) increased with each incremental QI tool as compared with baseline (P < .001). Nonsignificant trends were noted for aspirin, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and [beta]-blockers. At 1 year, the use of LLM was similarly high in all groups and was associated with cardiac rehabilitation use. Short- and long-term mortality rates did not differ between study groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our inpatient QI tools resulted in early, high LLM use, but the treatment advantage of the interventions was erased by 1 year and no survival benefit was noted. Our study illustrates the importance of tracking long-term outcomes in QI projects and suggests that outpatient cardiac rehabilitation is associated with long-term use of LLM.
Changing the Exchange The Dynamics of Knowledge Worker Ego Networks

Knowledge creation is a collective and social activity, and a large body of research has established that knowledge creation by researchers (knowledge workers) is influenced by their direct exchange partners. We examine why knowledge worker ego networks are structured as they are, but also why and how knowledge worker networks change over time. We examine two changes to knowledge workers’ ego networks: the addition of new direct exchange partners and the deletion of existing direct exchange partners. Our study offers important evidence that two network dimensions (tie strength between ego and his or her alters, and the level of connectivity among ego’s alters) provide distinctive insight into how networks change. Importantly, our study provides evidence that three critical components of the knowledge creation process—access to diverse and redundant resources, shared experiences and tacit mutual understanding to develop the resources, and previous knowledge creations—act as causal mechanisms behind network...
Abstract 1867: The natural product sulforaphane protects epidermal tissue from individuals at increased risk for melanoma from the effects of UV radiation

Our study focuses on the design and testing of melanoma-prevention strategies for use in high-risk populations. Individuals who have germline loss-of-function (LOF) mutations at the highly polymorphic MC1R locus are at 4-fold increased risk for melanoma. Much of this increase likely arises from the loss of MC1R-mediated upregulation of antioxidant, DNA repair, pigment synthesis and anti-apoptotic pathways that protect epidermal melanocytes from the mutagenic effects of UV radiation. We have found that the natural product sulforaphane (SF) protects normal human melanocytes in culture from UV-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress in the absence of MC1R stimulation by its ligand α-MSH. This led us to propose that SF might be useful for protecting the skin of human subjects with LOF MC1R mutations from the harmful effects of UV light. We have sequenced MC1R in volunteers both with and without the red hair phenotype that is typical for humans with LOF mutations. Sequencing was necessary in all volunteers because many individuals with heterozygous LOF mutations do not have the signature pigmentary phenotype, but are still at increased (2-fold) risk for melanoma. Shave biopsies were harvested from those with either wild-type MC1R or two LOF alleles. The epidermal tissues were treated ex vivo with UV and/or SF then analyzed histologically and by qPCR. We found that SF ameliorated many of the effects of UV radiation in tissues from donors with LOF MC1R. This study demonstrates the promise of SF as an agent for protection of human skin in individuals with high-risk MC1R genotypes from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1867. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1867
Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Impairment of Pial Vessel Autoregulation in Rats

ABSTRACT: To examine the mechanisms of autoregulatory impairment in meningitis, we studied the effects of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) on pial vessels during hemorrhagic hypotension in rats, using a cranial window technique. We prepared cranial windows in barbiturate-anesthetized, mechanically ventilated rats. Artificial cerebrospinal fluid or 105 Hib in cerebrospinal fluid (n = 7 each group) was suffused over the pial surface. Pial arteriolar diameter was measured hourly for 4 h. Autoregulation was assessed as the ability of pial arterioles to dilate in response to graded hemorrhagic hypotension at 2 and 4 h. Pial arterioles exposed to Hib dilated progressively to 149 ± 27% of baseline at 4 h. Vessel diameter in the Hib group was significantly greater than in the control group beginning at 2 h. Autoregulation was progressively impaired in Hib-exposed rats compared with control rats [−5.85 ± 1.38 versus −8.02 ± 2.02 and −3.82 ± 1.57 versus −8.53 ± 1.72% dilation/kPa fall in mean arterial blood pressure at 2 and 4 h, respectively (p < 0.05)]. These data suggest that autoregulation is impaired in pial arterioles exposed to Hib because involved vessels have a finite dilatory capacity and are close to maximal dilation before hypotensive challenge.
Growth and carcass characteristics of lambs grazing cowpea, sudangrass or fed in drylot

Abstract A trial was conducted (1990–1993) to compare growth and carcass characteristics of lambs grazing cowpea with those lambs grazing sudangrass or fed corn/soybean meal or corn/whole cottonseed in drylot. The trial was conducted in the Midwest region of the USA from the end of July (mid summer) until the middle of October (fall) of each year. Each trial consisted of 48 lambs that were divided equally into 12 lambs per treatment. Total gain of lambs grazing cowpea was 14.2 ± 0.45 kg which was greater ( P P 2 ) than lambs grazing sudangrass (15.5 ± 0.44 kg, 41.3 ± 0.54%, 13.9 ± 0.44 cm 2 ), fed corn/soybean meal (20.6 ± 0.44 kg, 47.7 ± 0.54%, 14.8 ± 0.44 cm 2 ), or fed corn/whole cottonseed (19.1 ± 0.44 kg, 43.7 ± 0.54%, 14.4 ±0.44cm 2 ). Lambs grazing cowpea did not differ ( P > 0.05) from drylot lambs in backfat, retail cuts, kidney-pelvic fat percentage, live weight, and yield grade. In conclusion, cowpea can be used as an alternative feed source for finishing lambs during the summer months and early fall in the Midwest region of the USA.
Molecular dynamics study of the transport properties of perovskite melts under high temperature and pressure conditions

Abstract The transport properties of perovskite melts by molecular dynamics in the temperature range from 3000 to 6000 K and pressure range from 5.1 to 78 GPa were studied. Shear viscosities, coefficients of self-diffusion, infrared absorption spectra, and vibrational densities of states were calculated. Shear viscosities were computed through generalized mean-squared displacement of momenta. Shear viscosity estimates ranged from3 × 10−2to5 × 10−2 P and did not vary significantly with temperature. The activation energy found for shear viscosity was about 38 kJ/mol. Our results showed that the Stokes-Einstein relationship between shear viscosity and self-diffusion did not hold. Activation energies of 139, 184, and 166 kJ/mol found for self-diffusion of Mg, Si and O atoms, respectively, at 5 GPa agree with experimental estimates. ForP > 15 GPa andT = 4500 K, activation volumes of 4.9, 2.9 and 1.3 cm3 were found. The main peaks of the infrared spectrum are shifted towards lower frequencies with increasing pressure, while the peak frequency of the density of states moves up for higher pressures. The shift of infrared absorption peaks is due to coordination changes of the silicon atoms from four- to five-fold and six-fold and has been observed experimentally. Changes of Si from four-fold coordination atP = 5 GPa to five- and six-fold coordinations at high pressure around 70 GPa were found.
Syntheses of novel C-9 and C-10 modified bioactive taxanes

Abstract A method has been developed for the syntheses of hitherto unreported C-9 and C-10 modified taxanes. These analogs demonstrated excellent to good cytotoxicity against B 16 melanoma cells.
Composting Short Paper Fiber with Broiler Litter and Additives: Part I: Effects of Initial pH and Carbon/Nitrogen Ratio On Ammonia Emission

Short paper fiber (SPF), a by-product of the paper mill industry, was cocomposted with broiler litter (BL) to determine decomposition rate and NH3-N loss as functions of C/N ratio and pH of the compost mixes. The SPF generally had a high C/N ratio >200 while the BL, consisting of bedding material (sawdust) and poultry manure, had a low C/N ratio of 10–12. A total of seven series (27 tests) of pilot-scale studies were conducted using two different SPFs mixed with BL. Additives used for pH control were alum (aluminum sulfate), HiClay® Alumina and sulfuric acid. Mixing ratios [SPF/(SPF+BL), kg/kg(dry basis)] used were 0.8 to 0.4. Test conditions were C/N of 17 to 49, pH of 6.6 to 8.3, initial temperatures of −1 to 22°C, composting temperature of 60°C, water content of 50-55% w.b. and remixing two times per week. Composting temperature was controlled using forced ventilation with a high/low fan setting. Composting trials lasted two weeks. Ammonia loss, O2, CO2, compost temperatures and dry solids loss were me...
Impedance of metal-solid electrolyte interfaces☆

The impedance of metal-solid electrolyte junctions display a characteristic frequency dependence in both the real and imaginary terms which can be represented by Z(ω) = B(jω)−n over several decades in ω, where 0<n<1. Impedance measurements on cells using β- and β″-alumina at temperatures from -134 to 400°C combined with scanning electron and optical microscopy of bare and metallized electrolyte surfaces show that the value of the frequency exponent n depends on the surface microstructure and sample temperature. Two recent models based on (1) the fractal geometry of a rough interface and (2) a porous interface provide a qualitative explanation of the experimental results.
Absorption Coefficients of Nitrogen Oxide in the Vacuum Ultraviolet

Using a photoelectric method described previously, absorption coefficients of nitrogen oxide were measured in the spectral region 1100–2300A. Pressures from 0.3- to 100-mm Hg were used in the absorption cell with LiF windows. A continuous absorption spectrum was found in the region 1100–1400A where the absorption coefficients varied from about 40 cm−1 to 200 cm−1. At the Lyman alpha line of hydrogen at 1216A the value was 67.5 cm−1. A number of weak diffuse bands was also observed in the same region. These bands suggest preionization, since they appeared at wavelengths below about 1320A. The relative intensity distribution of the known bands (β, δ, ∊, γ) at longer wavelengths were obtained at various pressures and are discussed.
Separation of Newcastle Disease and Infectious Bronchitis Viruses in Mixed Infections

Abstract RESPIRATORY diseases of poultry may present confused symptomatic pictures. The isolation of any one etiological agent often fails to explain all the symptoms observed. Simultaneous exposure of a susceptible host to two viruses may result in a dual infection, virus exaltation or viral interference (Schlesinger, 1952). Dual viral infections have been observed in human medicine when separate organs and tissues have been infected by localizing viruses. In addition the observation of two types of inclusions has demonstrated the presence of two separate viruses within a single cell. Intranuclear herpetic and cytoplasmic vaccinal inclusions were observed within a single cell by Anderson (1942) and Syverton and Berry (1947). West (1952) observed intranuclear inclusions of laryngotracheitis virus and cytoplasmic Bollinger bodies of fowl pox virus in a single cloacal epithelial cell as the result of a simultaneous vaccination. Brandly (1950) suggested the possibility of mixed respiratory viral infections in poultry. He suggested …
Solitary (Localized) Pleural Mesothelioma: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

A few of the primary pleural mesotheliomas are benign. These tumors are localized. They can vary greatly in size. The majority are biologically benign lesions. The application of the techniques of tissue culture to the study of such tumors has considerably helped to clarify the origin of these tumors and their relation to the more common diffuse malignant variety. Review of the English literature since 1942 reveals the reporting of approximately 152 cases of localized pleural mesotheliomas in addition to the authors' two cases. The tumor is usually adequately treated by conversative resection or excision except when there is invasion of contiguous structures. The latter requires more radical treatment.
The pharmacology of MS 222 (ethyl-m-aminobenzoate) in squalus acanthias

Abstract 1. Ninety-five per cent of the drug was cleared via the gills in 2 hours with a clearance of 10·7 ml. per kg. per minute. Plasma t1/2 was 56 minutes, renal excretion being ∼5 per cent of injected drug and metabolites. The volume of distribution was that of body water. 2. About 5 per cent was metabolized to m-aminobenzoic acid and m-acetylaminobenzoic acid, which were excreted via the kidney at a rate similar to glomerular filtration. A small fraction was also converted to the N-acetyl derivative which was excreted across the gill. 3. Given intravenously, the drug did not produce anaesthesia, but when administered via the gills anaesthesia occurred rapidly. 4. The immobilization of the fish appears to be a consequence of high arterial blood levels. The evidence suggests that anaesthesia is due to events at the neuromuscular junction.
Maximization of nonlinear fluorescence from ultrasmall (⩽2 nm) semiconductor quantum dots to be used for deep tissue imaging

We propose the use of ultrasmall semiconductor quantum dots (USQDs) for specialized bio-imaging applications, and discuss methods for enhancing fluorescent signals from USQDs to be used for two-photon-absorption based deep tissue imaging. In particular, we report optimizing the excitation wavelength for two-photon absorption-induced fluorescence (TPAF) in CdSe/ZnS SQDs and demonstrate a 68-fold enhancement in the fluorescence signal when the TPAF excitation wavelength is changed from 900 nm to 780 nm.
Roles of Catalytic Domain Residues in Interfacial Binding and Activation of Group IV Cytosolic Phospholipase A2

Group IV cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) has been shown to play a critical role in eicosanoid biosynthesis. cPLA(2) is composed of the C2 domain that mediates the Ca(2+)-dependent interfacial binding of protein and the catalytic domain. To elucidate the mechanism of interfacial activation of cPLA(2), we measured the effects of mutations of selected ionic and hydrophobic residues in the catalytic domain on the enzyme activity and the membrane binding of cPLA(2). Mutations of anionic residues located on (Glu(419) and Glu(420)) or near (Asp(436), Asp(438), Asp(439), and Asp(440)) the active site lid enhanced the affinity for cPLA(2) for anionic membranes, implying that the electrostatic repulsion between these residues and the anionic membrane surface might trigger the opening of the active site. This notion is further supported by a biphasic dependence of cPLA(2) activity on the anionic lipid composition of the vesicles. Mutations of a cluster of cationic residues (Lys(541), Lys(543), Lys(544), and Arg(488)), while significantly enhancing the activity of enzyme, abrogated the specific activation effect by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P(2)). These data, in conjunction with cell activity of cPLA(2) and mutants transfected into HEK293 cells, suggest that the cationic residues form a specific binding site for PtdIns(4,5)P(2) and that the specific PtdIns(4,5)P(2) binding is involved in cellular activation of cPLA(2). Also, three hydrophobic residues at the rim of the active site (Ile(399), Leu(400), and Leu(552)) were shown to partially penetrate the membrane, thereby promoting membrane binding and activation of cPLA(2). Based on these results, we propose an interfacial activation mechanism for cPLA(2) which involves the removal of the active site lid by nonspecific electrostatic repulsion, the interdomain hinge movement induced by specific PtdIns(4,5)P(2) binding, and the partial membrane penetration by catalytic domain hydrophobic residues.
Toll Network Capacity Calculator: Operations Management and Assessment Tool for Toll Network Operators:

A performance assessment tool was developed to assist managers and operators of highway networks containing toll collection facilities. The toll network capacity calculator (TNCC) quantifies a toll facility's ability to process traffic. The calculator can also help engineers who are designing toll facilities to serve highway systems adequately. TNCC determines the maximum amount of traffic that a collection facility can handle. In addition, TNCC may be used for disruption management during lane closings, incidents, or maintenance checks. Furthermore, TNCC may be employed as a planning tool and a performance assessment tool by predicting the impact of surging traffic volumes during special events. The performance of a toll facility was determined from plaza characteristics such as lane number, lane type, and processing rates. The results of the calculations met constraints set by the characteristics of the arriving traffic. For example, variables such as the percentage of arrivals that were electronic toll...
Jaina monks from Mathura: literary evidence for their identification on Ku ā a sculptures

Among the thousands of Jaina images found throughout India, those from Mathura produced during the Kuṣāṇa period are unique, for they alone contain representations of unclothed Jaina ascetics holding a single small piece of cloth in such a way as to cover their nudity. These curious figures cannot be identified with monks of the present-day Jaina sects of the Digambaras, who practise total nudity, or of the Śvetāmbaras, who wear two long pieces of unstitched white cloth wrapped around their bodies and occasionally a white blanket over their left shoulders. The veteran art-historian, the late Dr. U. P. Shah, in Aspects of Jaina art and architecture briefly mentions these figures, noting that ‘nowhere in the above references from Śvetāmbara as well as Digambara texts do we come across a reference to those figures on the siṃhāsanaof a Jina which we find in a number of sculptures of the Kuṣāṇa period from the Kaṅkāli Tīlā.’ Subsequently, in Jaina-Rūpa-Maṇḍano, he calls these figures ardhaphālakas (monks with partial covering) and speculates that these figures might be Yāpanīya monks, another Jaina sect that is now extinct, and states that these figures need further investigation. In addition to Shah, N. P. Joshi has also discussed these ardhaphālaka images. He states that ‘all the monks seen in the bas-reliefs, except one known to me, seem to belong to the Ardhaphālaka sect. … Besides the monks seen in the bas-reliefs, those hovering in the air (vidyā cāraṇas) or seen on some of the śilāpaṭṭāsare all Ardhaphālakas. This suggests that during the pre-Christian and early Christian centuries a large number of Jainas at Mathura followed this sect’.
FOOD MANIPULATION AND MINIMAL CHANGE NEPHROTIC SYNDROME (MCNS)

It has been proposed that MC NS is due to a variety of causes including hypersensitivity to inhalants, drugs, insects' sting, and/or foods. To test the latter, a study was undertaken in patients with MC NS (defined clinically and/or by biopsy) resistant to or dependent on corticosteroids or with frequent relapses (as defined by ISKDC). A response to dietary manipulation (improvement or worsening) was defined as the presence of acute and marked changes in 24 hr proteinuria (within 5 days, lasting>48 hr, increased≥4 fold or decreased to≤1/4). Most patients had simultaneous changes in weight, edema, urine output and serum albumin. Prior to the study period, all medications were discontinued; subsequently, no corticosteroids or immunesuppressors were administered until discharge from the protocol. 24 patients (age range 2-13 years) were studied over a 5 year period (1974-1979). 12 patients (50%) completed the study and had a response most likely as the result of dietary manipulation. 8 patients had no significant changes and 4 had incomplete studies. In conclusion: (1) observed changes probably were not due to spontaneous remission or relapse; (2) some patients did improve with dietary manipulation and no medications; (3) results obtained suggest need for further study to identify MC NS patients who would improve with dietary manipulation; (4) further study also is required to attempt quantitation of changes and objective conclusions.
Ultraviolet phototherapy in psoriasis with hydrophilic ointment alone or with crude coal tar

Plaques of 12 psoriatic patients treated with crude coal tar and ultraviolet irradiation were compared with symmetric areas treated with the same ultraviolet light (UVL) source and a hydrophilic ointment vehicle. Of the 12 patients, 10 received 75–100% clearing at both sites regardless whether the tar or the vehicle was applied. Treatment three times weekly was as effective as five times weekly. It was uncertain if the addition of UV-A irradiation to the UVL system in a small group using tar had a more beneficial effect.
Fast-forward projection approach for 3D iterative metal artifact suppression

Despite the advance in iterative reconstruction methods for reducing metal artifacts, Feldkamp (FDK) based algorithms continue to be the most widely used CT reconstruction in medicine. While computationally efficient, FDK performs poorly in the presence of metallic objects. Projection-completion algorithms have been used to suppress metallic artifacts and, hence, improve image quality in FDK reconstruction. Here, we present a threedimensional adaptive filtering method that performs projection completion. It takes into account the metal content fraction in the voxel and applies a correction in the projections. This algorithm uses a fast, simple, forward-projection method to obtain accurate metal probability regions in the projection space. We compare our results with those obtained using projection completion by linear interpolation on a dental cone-beam CT.
Propagation in unstable and plane-mirror optical resonators

It is shown that propagation in an unstable resonator can be expressed in a form similar to that applicable to a plane-mirror resonator, but with the magnification appearing as a scaling parameter.
Model ordinance for development on karst terrain: Kentucky, USA

Until the recent economic slowdown, development in rural areas was increasing at a rapid rate in Kentucky and resulting in development pressure on less desirable lands, including large areas of karst land. Most damage caused by karst geologic hazards is from groundwater pollution, cover-collapse sinkholes, and sinkhole flooding. The economic costs of karst-related geologic hazards have been estimated to be $20 million annually in Kentucky. The Kentucky Geological Survey drafted a model ordinance to guide development in karst for the purpose of reducing economic and environmental losses from karst geohazards. The text of the ordinance provides a wide range of ideas for planning and zoning agencies to adopt as needed. The final draft of the model ordinance was completed in the fall of 2008 and went through a thorough technical and editorial review, both internally at KGS and among other karst researchers. An effort was made to find an attorney to volunteer time to review the document, but we were not successful. The decision was made to move forward and send copies to 70 fiscal courts or planning and zoning boards. It was reasoned that any adopted ordinance derived from this document would be reviewed by their attorneys, regardless of previous reviews. To date the response has been poor. Only two agencies have contacted KGS for further information.
Transactions section: Large electric-arc furnaces — Performance and power supply

ELECTRIC arc furnaces are desirable loads for power systems, and are becoming more and more used for producing high-grade alloy steels, as well as for other types of steel. The authors believe that the data in this article will be of value and assistance to others in the solution of similar problems. It is necessary in connecting large electric arc furnaces onto power systems that it be done in such a manner that neither the voltage changes, caused by the violent and rapid load swings of these furnaces, will interfere with other load of the furnace customer nor be permitted to reflect back into the system in such a manner as to interfere with service to adjacent customers. Also precautions must be taken so that such widely fluctuating loads will neither interfere with the operations of any of the equipment on the power system nor interfere with any interconnection with adjacent power companies. Further, precautions must be taken so that voltage regulation caused by large short-time loads will not be too great.
A technique for the determination of enantiomeric amino acids in biological samples.

Racemic amino acids can be separated into their enantiomers by means of gas-liquid chromatography. The most applied technique, today, is the conversion of chiral compounds into diastereoisomers with optically active reagents and subsequent chromatography on conventional optically inactive stationary phases. In previous studies it has been realized that this technique is associated with various problems. We studied the use of optically active stationary phases for separating enantiomers directly via a diastereo- isomeric association complex. The optically active stationary phases employed are N- and C-terminal substituted dipeptides of the type N-trifluoroacetyl-dipeptide-cyclohexyl esters and have been synthesised by the I-hydroxibenztriazole dicyclohexylcarbodiimide method.
The effect of van der Waals and charge induced forces on bed modulus of elasticity in ac/dc electrofluidized beds of fine powders¿a unified theory

Abstract Perturbation theory is applied to an ac electrofluidzed bed of fine powder (glass and FCC) using electric field bubble control to infer the relation between interparticle forces (microscale) and the bulk bed modulus of elasticity (macroscale). Electrostatically induced and permanent van der Waals forces are modeled in a unified theory with bulk fluidized bed behavior. The extrapolation of the electric field to zero strength gives the permanent bed force and bulk bed modulus of elasticity as limiting cases. The resulting equations involve atomic as well as macros-scale parameters. The charge induced forces are identified through the bed modulus of elasticity as a function of the applied electric field strength. The semi-empirical approach is based on the principle that the conservation equations for the perturbed fluidized bed become unstable at the onset of bubbling giving characteristic eigenvalues for the bed modulus, a condition that is readily identifiable experimentally. Eigenvalues from the one-dimensional linearized conservation equations for the fluidized state are examined for growth, neutrality, or decay from the perturbation, which together with bed data are evaluated at bubbling conditions to give the bed modulus of elasticity. Both Richardson–Zaki and Carman–Kozeny bed expansion models of fluidization are examined. The former approach is found to give self-consistent results in which the bed modulus varies linearly with the electric field strength. The results are extended to dc beds as a limiting case of zero field frequency. The modulus of elasticity (a macroscopic bed property) is finally related to particle charge separation at the particle level through an interparticle force model applicable to ac–dc electric fields.
Demonstration of Molecular Assembly on Si (100) for CMOS-Compatible Molecule-Based Electronic Devices

In this work, we establish the potential of a UV-promoted direct attachment of alkanes with alcohol and thiol linkers to the silicon (100) surfaces for use in molecular electronic devices with increased potential for integration with existing CMOS technologies. Characterization of the self-assembled monolayers via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, spectroscopic ellipsometry, and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy shows that the films assembled on the Si (100) are comparable in quality, aliphatic monolayer coverage, and extent of substrate oxidation to those assembled on the more extensively studied Si (111) crystal face. Simple Si (100)-based electronic devices fabricated with the monolayers exhibited molecule-dependent electrical characteristics. These data highlight the effectiveness of the assembly on Si (100), the ability to fabricate enclosed Si (100)-based molecular devices, and the potential for the future integration of these devices with more conventional technologies.
Conjugated linoleic acids and CLA-containing phospholipids inhibit NO formation in aortic endothelial cells.

This study examined the effects of five CLA isomers and the non-conjugated LA on nitric oxide (NO) production, an important modulator of vasodilation, inflammation, and cytotoxicity. Bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) were pretreated with pure CLAs (c9, c11-, c9, t11-, t9, t11-, t10, c12-, c11, c13-CLA) and the non-conjugated c9, c12-analog, then stimulated by the ionophore A23187 followed by fluorescence monitoring of NO production. CLAs (5 μM) decreased NO formation in the range of 20–40% relative to non-fatty acid-treated controls with the t9, t11- and t10, c12-CLAs being the most effective. The inhibitory effect of either of these CLAs was not time dependent over a 120 min time interval. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) play crucial roles in membrane structure and cell signaling. Since CLAs are usually esterified in these phospholipids (PLs), the effects of three CLA-containing PLs and 2-linoleoyl-PC on NO production by A23187-stimulated BAECs were also examined. c9, t11-CLA-PC and 2-linoleoyl-PC dose-dependently inhibited NO production over a 60–1,000 μM concentration range whereas c9, c11-CLA-PC and c9, t11-CLA-PE were ineffective. Both c9, t11-CLA-PC and linoleoyl-PC exhibited a time-dependent decrease in NO production from 5 to 120 min. The results of the present study suggest that the influence of several C18 polyunsaturated fatty acids incorporated into cellular phospholipids on the A23187-induced formation of NO by BAECs is strongly dependent on the positional and geometric nature of the double bonds.
Intrinsic retroviral reactivation in human preimplantation embryos and pluripotent cells

The human endogenous retrovirus HERVK is normally silenced, but here the surprising discovery is made that in early human embryo development it is expressed, producing retroviral-like particles. The open reading frames encoded by the human endogenous retrovirus HERVK are normally transcriptionally silenced. Joanna Wysocka and colleagues report that HERVK is expressed during early human embryo development from the eight-cell stage to the pre-implantation epiblast, leading to the production of retrovirus-like particles. They further show that the process of human embryonic stem cell derivation silences HERVK expression, and that in pluripotent cells an HERVK accessory protein (Rec) can bind cellular RNAs and appears to induce an antiviral defence response. Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are remnants of ancient retroviral infections, and comprise nearly 8% of the human genome1. The most recently acquired human ERV is HERVK(HML-2), which repeatedly infected the primate lineage both before and after the divergence of the human and chimpanzee common ancestor2,3. Unlike most other human ERVs, HERVK retained multiple copies of intact open reading frames encoding retroviral proteins4. However, HERVK is transcriptionally silenced by the host, with the exception of in certain pathological contexts such as germ-cell tumours, melanoma or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection5,6,7. Here we demonstrate that DNA hypomethylation at long terminal repeat elements representing the most recent genomic integrations, together with transactivation by OCT4 (also known as POU5F1), synergistically facilitate HERVK expression. Consequently, HERVK is transcribed during normal human embryogenesis, beginning with embryonic genome activation at the eight-cell stage, continuing through the emergence of epiblast cells in preimplantation blastocysts, and ceasing during human embryonic stem cell derivation from blastocyst outgrowths. Remarkably, we detected HERVK viral-like particles and Gag proteins in human blastocysts, indicating that early human development proceeds in the presence of retroviral products. We further show that overexpression of one such product, the HERVK accessory protein Rec, in a pluripotent cell line is sufficient to increase IFITM1 levels on the cell surface and inhibit viral infection, suggesting at least one mechanism through which HERVK can induce viral restriction pathways in early embryonic cells. Moreover, Rec directly binds a subset of cellular RNAs and modulates their ribosome occupancy, indicating that complex interactions between retroviral proteins and host factors can fine-tune pathways of early human development.
Synthesis and positron emission tomography studies of carbon-11-labeled imatinib (Gleevec)

Introduction Imatinib mesylate (Gleevec) is a well known drug for treating chronic myeloid leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Its active ingredient, imatinib ([4-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)methyl]-N-[4-methyl-3-[[4-(3-pyridyl)-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]phenyl]benzamide), blocks the activity of several tyrosine kinases. Here we labeled imatinib with carbon-11 as a tool for determining the drug distribution and pharmacokinetics of imatinib, and we carried out positron emission tomography (PET) studies in baboons.
Global transmission channels for international bank lending in the 2007–09 financial crisist

Abstract During a financial crisis, credit provision by international banks may be affected by three global channels: changes in willingness to lend from increased economic uncertainty, in funding availability from interbank liquidity markets, and in solvency from weakened balance sheets. In this paper, we examine the extent to which each channel affected bank lending in developing countries during the global financial crisis of 2007–09. We find evidence that the liquidity and uncertainty channels were important, although lending sensitivity to these channels remained unchanged during the crisis. We also find heterogeneity in the lending behavior of European versus U.S. banks.
Fluorescence in situ hybridization of cytologic specimens from Barrett's esophagus: a pilot feasibility study.

Background Endoscopic brush cytology is a promising surveillance technique for Barrett's esophagus. However, there is a need for ancillary biomarkers to increase the sensitivity of cytology and to allow identification of patients at increased risk for disease progression. The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of fluorescence in situ hybridization of endoscopic brush cytology specimens and to determine if there are specific chromosomal changes in cytologic specimens from patients with cancer that are not present in patients without dysplasia. Methods Archival cytology slides from 16 patients with Barrett's esophagus were studied: 8 negative for dysplasia and 8 positive for adenocarcinoma. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to detect two alterations: HER-2 gene (17q11.2-q12) and 20q13.2 region amplification. Observations For 7 of 8 adenocarcinoma cases, there was amplification/aneusomy of at least one of the two analyzed regions by fluorescence in situ hybridization. None of the samples negative for dysplasia were abnormal for either of the two genomic regions studied. Conclusions Fluorescence in situ hybridization is feasible by using routine Barrett's esophagus cytologic specimens. Differences in genomic makeup can be detected in cells from patients negative for dysplasia and in those with adenocarcinoma.
Role of vortices in voice production: normal versus asymmetric tension.

Objectives: Decreasing the closing speed of the vocal folds can reduce loudness and energy in the higher frequency harmonics, resulting in reduced voice quality. Our aim was to study the correlation between higher frequencies and the intraglottal vorticity (which contributes to rapid closing by producing transient negative intraglottal pressures). Methods: Using six excised canine larynges (three with symmetric and three with asymmetric, periodic vocal fold motion), intraglottal vorticity was calculated from 2D velocity fields measured using particle imaging velocimetry. Results: There is a strong correlation between intraglottal vorticity and acoustic energy in the higher frequencies; in periodic asymmetric motion, the vorticity and higher frequencies are both reduced. Conclusions: For unilateral vocal fold paralysis, these findings suggest one reason why periodic, asymmetric motion, may produce an abnormal voice. Further study will help determine when and why reinnervation, as opposed to medialization, may result in better voice quality. Laryngoscope, 119:216–221, 2009
Measures of agreement: A single procedure

An assessment of measurement agreement made by devices, laboratories, or raters is important in medical practice and research. The setting in which each randomly selected subject is rated by the same two raters raises assorted questions regarding rate agreement. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) is one measure of reliability. The paired t-test can be used to evaluate the overall ratings or bias of the two raters, while their variances can be assessed with Pitman's test. The Bradley-Blackwood test can be used for a simultaneous test of their means and variances. A single method that provides results for these approaches is proposed and the bivariate confidence ellipse is suggested to provide boundaries for dispersion.
Effect of immune bovine milk on Streptococcus mutans in human dental plaque.

Abstract The use of a mouthrinse of bovine milk containing antibodies to Streptoccus mutans resulted in an initial reduction in the numbers of recoverable Strep. mutans in a group of 9 individuals. Ten volunteers who used control bovine milk that contained no antibody activity to Strep. mutans had variable levels of plaque Strep. mutans . In addition, after culture on Mitis Salivarius and Gold's agar, the plaque Strep. mutans from subjects who used the immune bovine milk rinse formed smaller colonies than those from pre-treatment plaque and from all plaque samples of subjects who used the control rinse.
Effects of synthetic versus natural colloid resuscitation on inducing dilutional coagulopathy and increasing hemorrhage in rabbits.

Background: On the basis of logistic benefits of colloids over crystalloids, the U.S. military selected Hextend for resuscitation of combat casualties in the field. We investigated the effects of resuscitation with this fluid, as well as other colloids, on coagulation and uncontrolled bleeding in rabbits subjected to a splenic injury. Methods: Anesthetized male New Zealand white rabbits (33 kg ± 0.2 kg) were divided into three groups and subjected to hypothermia (35°C ± 0.5°C) and ∼40% iso-volemic blood exchange (hemodilution) with Hextend (H); Dextran70 (D); or 5% human albumin (A) solution (n = 8/group). Complete blood count, arterial blood gas, and coagulation values were measured before and after hemodilution. Laparotomy was performed and a standard splenic injury causing uncontrolled hemorrhage was made. Rabbits were resuscitated (25 mL/kg) with the same colloid used for hemodilution to restore baseline blood pressure. Animals were monitored for 2 hours or until death. Blood loss and survival times were measured. Results: There were no differences among groups in pH, Hct, fibrinogen, or platelets before or after hemodilution. Hct, fibrinogen, and platelets were reduced by 45% to 60% in all groups. Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time were prolonged in all the rabbits with the greatest increase in A group. Thrombelastograph (TEG) analysis showed longer initial reaction (R) and clotting (K) times, slower clotting rate and lower clot strength in H and D than A diluted blood. R time was faster and K time remained unchanged in A group after hemodilution. Thrombin generation potential and peak concentration of thrombin were unchanged in A samples but significantly reduced in H and D diluted samples. Subsequent splenic injury led to almost equal blood losses (∼54 ± 1 mL/kg) in H and D groups, which were higher (p < 0.01) than in A rabbits (37 ± 4 mL/kg). This resulted in death of 100% (H), 75% (D), and 50% (A) of the rabbits with significant difference in survival time among the groups. Conclusion: TEG and thrombin generation assays identified more severe coagulopathy development with H and D than A dilution, whereas plasma PT and activated partial thromboplastin time measurements did not differentiate between these colloids. These results suggest that resuscitation with albumin maintained coagulation function, decreased blood loss, and improved survival time compared with the synthetic colloids.
PENETRATING CARDIAC INJURIES

Penetrating cardiac injuries pose a tremendous challenge to any trauma surgeon. Time, sound judgment, aggressive intervention, and surgical technique are the most important factors contributing to positive outcomes. This article extensively reviews the history, surgical management, and techniques needed to deal with these critical injuries. This year commemorates the one hundredth anniversary of the first successful repair of a cardiac injury.
Integration of CdTe–ZnO nanocomposite thin films into photovoltaic devices

Abstract Quantum-scale semiconductor nanoparticles offer unique, size-dependent optical and electronic properties of import to enhanced photovoltaic conversion efficiency. The present study addresses the integration of CdTe nanocrystal assemblies, used as spectral sensitizers, into thin film photovoltaic heterojunction devices. CdTe nanocrystals, embedded in an electrically active ZnO matrix, form a nanocomposite offering control of both spectral absorption and photocarrier transport behavior through the manipulation of nanophase assembly (ensemble effects). A sequential RF-magnetron sputter deposition technique affords the control of semiconductor nanophase spatial distribution relative to the heterojunction plane in a hybrid, ZnO–P3HT test structure. Energy conversion performance, ( J – V and quantum efficiency (QE) response) was examined as a function of the location of the CdTe nanophase absorber region using both 1-D device modeling (SCAPS) and the experimental examination of analogous P3HT–ZnO based hybrid thin film devices. Enhancement in simulated QE over a spectral range consistent with the absorption region of the CdTe nanophase (i.e. 400–475 nm) is confirmed in the experimentally determined external quantum efficiency (EQE). Moreover, a trend of decreasing efficiency in this spectral range with increasing separation between the CdTe nanophase region and the heterojunction plane is observed. The results are interpreted in terms of carrier scattering/recombination length mitigating the successful transport of photocarriers across the junction.
Independent theory versus direct simulation of radiation heat transfer in packed beds

Radiation heat transfer in packed beds of relatively large spherical particles is considered. The common practice is to follow the theory of independent scattering as long as C/λ/s > 0.5, where C is the average interparticle clearance andλ the wavelength. The single particle properties are related to the radiative properties of the bed by volume averaging. The equation of transfer is then solved by an approximate method such as the method of discrete ordinales or the two-flux method. In this study, the Monte Carlo method is used to examine the thermal radiative transfer through packed beds of large (geometric range) particles. Opaque, semi-transparent and emitting particles are considered. The results are compared to the independent theory and to the available experimental results, and they indicate that the independent theory fails even when this C/λ criterion is satisfied. The success of independent theory in systems with low porosities, noted by previous researchers, is shown to be either a special ease existing only for a small range of the optical properties or arising due to some unjustifiable assumptions. For the same radiative particle properties, the deviation from the independent theory is shown to increase with decrease in the porosity. This deviation can be significant even for porosities as high as 0.935.
Radionuclide assessment of ventricular performance during propranolol withdrawal prior to aortocoronary bypass surgery

Abstract The effects of oral propranolol upon left ventricular performance were assessed in 18 patients with angiographically documented coronary artery disease in whom propranolol was tapered prior to elective aortocoronary bypass surgery. Left ventricular ejection fraction, ejection rate, and regional wall motion were obtained on three occasions with first-pass radionuclide angiocardiographic techniques. Patients were studied at peak propranolol dose (±SEM) 224±29 mg./day; serum propranolol level, 85±22 ng./ml.), intermediate dose (99±9 mg./day; serum propranolol, 30±6 ng./ml.), and 24 hours following discontinuation of propranolol therapy. Heart rate increased significantly (62±2.3 vs 67±3.0 vs 73±2.3 beats/minute, p 0.05). There was no significant change in ejection fraction (59.1±2.4 vs 60.4±2.0 vs 59.2±2.5 per cent) or ejection rate 2.80±0.18 vs 2.87±0.18 vs 2.92±0.20 sec. −1 ) as propranolol was tapered (p>0.05). No patient demonstrated a change in regional wall motion in response to propranolol withdrawal. The results of this study suggest that oral proparanolol in commonly used clinical dosages does not significantly affect radionuclide measures of left ventricular performance in the basal state.