cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Promising New Chemotherapeutant for Use in Treatment of Fusarium solani Infections in Penaeid Shrimp

A commercially available microbicide, composed of 5-Chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiPzolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, was tested for its in vivo effectiveness in controlling pathogenicity and mortalities in the marine shrimp Penaeus stylirostris, caused by the fungus Fusurium solani. Sub-adult shrimp (100% with Fusurium lesions) were treated with the microbicide at levels of 5.0 and 7.5 ppm (Trial 1) and with 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 ppm (Trial 2), and each compared to a non-treated control. In Trial 1, treatments were administered during the first 9 days of the 22 day experiment, approximately every other day as 8 h static baths. The mean levels of Fusarium lesions on Day 22 for the 0, 5.0 and 7.5 ppm treatments were 87%, 25% and 13%, respectively. Statistically both levels of treatment (5.0 and 7.5 ppm) had significantly lower levels of Fusurium lesions when compared to the controls. In Trial 2, treatments of the microbicide were administered (8 h static bath) every seventh day over the course of the 64 day experiment. The Day 64 mean Fusarium lesion levels for the 0, 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 ppm treatments were 54%, 59%, 10% and 7%, respectively. Treatment with 2.5 and 5.0 ppm reduced the prevalence of Fusarium lesions to statistically lower levels when compared to the 0 and 1.0 ppm treatments. The microbicide had earlier been reported to be highly toxic to fish. The use of activated charcoal filters on the microbicide-treated effluent appeared to remove any residual compound from the water. The data in the present study indicate a possible inverse relationship between the level of “BG 101” and growth rate. The data from both trials suggest that periodic treatment over a longer test period could limit or eliminate Fusurium lesions, which are known to be the potential cause of substantial mortalities, particularly in captive broodstock populations.
A tool to organize instructions at discharge after treatment of asthmatic children in an emergency department.

Asthma exacerbations continue to be a major cause of visits to emergency departments (ED). Comprehensive care in the outpatient setting, with planning for early intervention for exacerbations, can reduce emergency visits. Thus, a major goal of ED intervention is to establish a link between the patient and the provider of ongoing asthma care, where complete education can be achieved and reinforced over time. When designing the Asthma 1-2-3 Plan discharge teaching tool for the ED, consideration was given to educational format, readability, patient population, and setting in which education was to be delivered. To evaluate use of the plan, ED records of patients enrolled in a separate asthma study, the Neighborhood Asthma Coalition (NAC), were audited for two 8-month intervals, May-December 1993 (before initiation of the plan) and May-December 1994 (starting 1 month after completion of pilot testing on the plan in the ED). To evaluate effectiveness of the plan, records of physicians who cared for children in...
Current trends of polymer/liquid-crystal dispersions (Invited Paper)

This paper reviews the current development of the PDLC technology. The original PDLC films using isotropic binders have been substituted by anisotropic binders for the purpose of indices match between the low molecular weight liquid crystals and the binders. A wide- viewing-angle light shutter was produced using a side-chain liquid crystalline epoxy polymer as binder. Recently, a new type of polymer-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystal dispersion (PSCLCD) containing less than 5 wt% of the binder in the dispersion systems was developed. Three different operation modes of cell devices were obtained at zero field: normal-mode, reverse-mode and bistable mode.
Proteus: Geology, shape, and catastrophic destruction

Least-squares fits to the two available limb profiles of Proteus yield a sphericity close to unity; the visual irregularity is due to a degree of surface roughness comparable to that of Hyperion and the smaller icy satellites. A network of streaks that can be interpreted as tectonic troughs cuts the surface of Proteus, and is organized concentrically around either one of the two nearly-coincident Proteus-Neptune of Pharos axes of symmetry. If the streaks are tectonic, they may be due to tidal stresses generated by a past change in Proteus' equilibrium orientation. The streaks may also be disruptive-stress fractures.
Cloud-Screening and Quality Control Algorithms for the AERONET Database

Abstract Automatic globally distributed networks for monitoring aerosol optical depth provide measurements of natural and anthropogenic aerosol loading, which is important in many local and regional studies as well as global change research investigations. The strength of such networks relies on imposing a standardization of measurement and processing, allowing multiyear and large-scale comparisons. The development of the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) for systematic ground-based sunphotometer measurements of aerosol optical depth is an essential and evolving step in this process. The growing database requires the development of a consistent, reproducible, and system-wide cloud-screening procedure. This paper discusses the methodology and justification of the cloud-screening algorithm developed for the AERONET database. The procedure has been comprehensively tested on experimental data obtained in different geographical and optical conditions. These conditions include biomass burning events in Brazil and Zambia, hazy summer conditions in the Washington DC area, clean air advected from the Canadian Arctic, and variable cloudy conditions. For various sites our screening algorithm eliminates from ∼20% to 50% of the initial data depending on cloud conditions. Certain shortcomings of the proposed procedure are discussed.
Integrated pest management approach for a new pest, Lacanobia subjuncta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), in Washington apple orchards.

Bioassays of Lacanobia subjuncta (Grote and Robinson) larvae established baseline LC50 values and identified the potential of reduced-risk, organophosphate replacement and naturally derived insecticides (eg chloronicotinyls, spinosyns, oxadiazines, insect growth regulators, microbial insecticides and particle films) to control this pest. The toxicities of these products were compared with those of organophosphate, carbamate, chlorinated cyclodiene and synthetic pyrethroid insecticides used in the management of lepidopteran pests in Washington apple orchards. Field trials were conducted comparing candidate insecticides to conventional alternatives. Several new insecticides (eg spinosad, methoxyfenozide, indoxacarb and an aluminosilicate particle film) proved to be effective for the management of L subjuncta. We summarize the goals and challenges of developing an integrated pest management program for new and resurgent pests as insecticide tools continue to change, and propose a hypothesis for the sudden increase in pest status of L subjuncta based on organophosphate tolerances. The role of novel insecticides with unique modes of action in resistance management and the encouragement of biological control are also discussed.  2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Using the Glucometrics Website to Benchmark ICU Glucose Control Before and After the NICE-SUGAR Study

Prior to 2009, intensive glycemic control was the standard in main intensive care units (ICUs). Glucose targets have been recalibrated after publication of the NICE-SUGAR study in that year, followed by updated guidelines that endorsed more moderated control. We sought to determine if the prevalence of hyperglycemia in US ICUs had increased after the NICE-SUGAR study's results were reported. We used data from hospitals submitted to the Yale Glucometrics™ website to assess mean blood glucose values, percentage of blood glucose within various ranges, and the prevalence of hypo- and hyperglycemic excursions, based on the patient-day method, comparing the pre- to post-NICE-SUGAR time period. Among more than a total of 2 million blood glucose determinations, comprising 408 790 patient-days, median patient-day blood glucose decreased from 144 mg/dL to 141 mg/dL (P < .001) in the pre- versus post-NICE-SUGAR time period. The percentage of patient days with a mean blood glucose of 110-179 mg/dl increased from 58.3 to 63.6%. The percentage of patient-days with either hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dl) or severe hyperglycemia (≥300 mg/dl) decreased during this time. Our results suggest that glycemic control in US ICUs has improved when comparing time periods before versus after publication of the NICE-SUGAR study. We found no evidence that fewer hypoglycemic events were achieved at the expense of more hyperglycemia.
Cation–Pi interactions in the crystal structures of alkali metal calixarene complexes

Abstract Calixarenes are widely used molecular scaffolds that have found broad application in supramolecular chemistry. Generally, binding interactions between calixarenes and cations involve the phenolic oxygen atoms as donor groups. In principle, however, the arenes could stabilize cations by cation–pi interactions. Several suggestive examples from the literature are reported here along with the solid state structure of a compound designed to explore the cation–pi interaction between a calixarene receptor and Na+ cation.
3D-shaded surface rendering of gadolinium-enhanced MR angiography in congenital heart disease.

Background. Gadolinium-enhanced three-dimensional (3D) MR angiography is a useful imaging technique for patients with congenital heart disease. Objective. This study sought to determine the added value of creating 3D shaded surface displays compared to standard maximal intensity projection (MIP) and multiplanar reformatting (MPR) techniques when analyzing 3D MR angiography data. Materials and methods. Seventeen patients (range, 3 months to 51 years old) with a variety of congenital cardiovascular defects underwent gadolinium-enhanced 3D MR angiography of the thorax. Color-coded 3D shaded surface models were rendered from the image data using manual segmentation and computer-based algorithms. Models could be rotated, translocated, or zoomed interactively by the viewer. Information available from the 3D models was compared to analysis based on viewing standard MIP/MPR displays. Results. Median postprocessing time for the 3D models was 6 h (range, 3–25 h) compared to approximately 20 min for MIP/MPR viewing. No additional diagnostic information was gained from 3D model analysis. All major findings with MIP/MPR postprocessing were also apparent on the 3D models. Qualitatively, the 3D models were more easily interpreted and enabled adjacent vessels to be distinguished more readily. Conclusion. Routine use of 3D shaded surface reconstructions for visualization of contrast enhanced MR angiography in congenital heart disease cannot be recommended. 3D surface rendering may be more useful for presenting complex anatomy to an audience unfamiliar with congenital heart disease and as an educational tool.
Structure-Activity of Tetrad-forming Oligonucleotides as a Potent Anti-HIV Therapeutic Drug

Abstract Recently, we have described the design and characterization of oligonucleotides containing only G and T bases,i.e. T30695 and T30177, that are potent inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) replication in culture (Jing, N., Rando, R. F., Pommier, Y., and Hogan, M. E. (1997)Biochemistry 36, 12498–12505). To understand that observation and to rationalize the generally high thermal stability of oligonucleotide folding for these compounds, we have used NMR methods, coupled to molecular modeling, to obtain a high resolution structure model for T30695, which is the most potent of the integrase inhibitors that have been identified thus far. Modeling and NMR data obtained in the presence of Li+ ions show that T30695 assumes an intramolecular fold with a distorted G-octet core and a set of three open, partially disordered loops. This is referred to as Li+-form structure. The NMR-based model suggests that, upon coordination with three K+ equivalents, the central G-octet becomes more regular and that the loop domains become orderly and compact. This is referred to as K+-form structure. Based upon the assay of inhibition of HIV-1 integrase, T30695 demonstrated a strong inhibition of HIV-1 integrase activity as the K+-form structure, but a poor inhibition of HIV-1 integrase activity as the Li+-form structure. The structure/activity analysis suggests that the K+-induced conformation transition of the tetrad-forming oligonucleotides, such as T30695 andT30177, plays a key role in inhibition of HIV-1 integrase activity.
Visualizing Simulated Construction Operations in 3D

Simulation modeling and visualization can substantially help in designing complex construction operations and in making optimal decisions where traditional methods prove ineffective or are unfeasib...
Parallel concatenated Gallager codes

A class of concatenated codes called parallel concatenated Gallager codes (PCGCs) in which low density parity check (LDPC) codes are used as the component codes is presented. Simulation results for PCGCs that outperform comparable LDPC codes in an AWGN channel are also presented.
Dynamic epithelia of the developing vertebrate face

A segmental series of endoderm-derived pouch and ectoderm-derived cleft epithelia act as signaling centers in the developing face. Their precise morphogenesis is therefore essential for proper patterning of the vertebrate head. Intercellular adhesion and polarity are highly dynamic within developing facial epithelial cells, with signaling from the adjacent mesenchyme controlling both epithelial character and directional migration. Endodermal and ectodermal epithelia fuse to form the primary mouth and gill slits, which involves basement membrane dissolution, cell intercalations, and apoptosis, as well as undergo further morphogenesis to generate the middle ear cavity and glands of the neck. Recent studies of facial epithelia are revealing both core programs of epithelial morphogenesis and insights into the coordinated assembly of the vertebrate head.
Application of a finite initial separation limit to the concentration gradient model of fluorescence quenching in liquids

Abstract The Stern-Volmer equation in the Smoluchowski-Collins-Kimball approximation is modified by the use of a most probable nearest neighbour separation as an upper integration limit of the time-independent flux equation. The resulting relationship provides a description of the experimental relative fluorescence yield for 111 data points in 12 systems with an overall average deviation of 2.3%, and affords realistic estimates of the relative diffusion coefficient and (in the diffusion-controlled limit) the encounter diameter.
Binary Function Clustering Using Semantic Hashes

The ability to identify semantically-related functions, in large collections of binary executables, is important for malware detection. Intuitively, two pieces of code are similar if they have the same effect on a machine's state. Current state-of-the-art tools employ a variety of pair wise comparisons (e.g., template matching using SMT solvers, Value-Set analysis at critical program points, API call matching, etc.) However, these methods are unshakable for clustering large datasets, of size N, since they require O(N^2) comparisons. In this paper, we present an alternative approach based upon "hashing". We propose a scheme that captures the semantics of functions as semantic hashes. Our approach treats a function as a set of features, each of which represent the input-output behavior of a basic block. Using a form of locality-sensitive hashing known as Min Hashing, functions with many common features can be quickly identified, and the complexity of clustering is reduced to O(N). Experiments on functions extracted from the CERT malware catalog indicate that we are able to cluster closely related code with a low false positive rate.
Transforming Probabilities With Combinational Logic

Schemes for probabilistic computation can exploit physical sources to generate random values in the form of bit streams. Generally, each source has a fixed bias and so provides bits with a specific probability of being one. If many different probability values are required, it can be expensive to generate all of these directly from physical sources. This paper demonstrates novel techniques for synthesizing combinational logic that transforms source probabilities into different target probabilities. We consider three scenarios in terms of whether the source probabilities are specified and whether they can be duplicated. In the case that the source probabilities are not specified and can be duplicated, we provide a specific choice, the set {0.4, 0.5} ; we show how to synthesize logic that transforms probabilities from this set into arbitrary decimal probabilities. Further, we show that for any integer n ≥ 2, there exists a single probability that can be transformed into arbitrary base-n fractional probabilities. In the case that the source probabilities are specified and cannot be duplicated, we provide two methods for synthesizing logic to transform them into target probabilities. In the case that the source probabilities are not specified, but once chosen cannot be duplicated, we provide an optimal choice.
Characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from human vocal fold fibroblasts

Objectives/Hypothesis: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) originally isolated from bone marrow (BM), are fibroblast-looking cells that are now assumed to be present in the stromal component of many tissues. MSCs are characterized by a certain set of criteria, including their growth culture characteristics, a combination of cell surface markers, and the ability to differentiate along multiple mesenchymal tissue lineages. We hypothesized that human vocal fold fibroblasts (hVFF) isolated from the lamina propria meet the criteria established to define MSCs and are functionally similar to MSCs derived from BM and adipose tissue. Study Design: In vitro study. Methods: hVFF were previously derived from human vocal fold tissues. MSCs were derived from adipose tissue (AT), and BM of healthy donors based on their attachment to culture dishes and their morphology and expanded in culture. Cells were analyzed for standard cell surface markers identified on BM-derived MSCs and the ability to differentiate into cells of mesenchymal lineage (i.e., fat, bone, and cartilage). We investigated the immunophenotype of these cells before and after interferon-γ (INF-γ) stimulation. Results: hVFF displayed cell surface markers and multipotent differentiation capacity characteristic of MSCs. Furthermore, these cells exhibited similar patterns of expression of human leukocyte antigen and costimulatory molecules, after stimulation with INF-γ compared to MSCs derived from BM and AT. Conclusions: Based on our findings, hVFF derived from lamina propria have the same cell surface markers, immunophenotypic characteristics, and differentiation potential as BM- and AT-derived MSCs. We propose that vocal fold fibroblasts are MSCs resident in the vocal fold lamina propria. Laryngoscope, 2010
Hydrogen storage tanks for vehicles: Recent progress and current status

Abstract Hydrogen storage is an important enabler for fuel cell vehicles. This brief summary provides an overview of the state of the art in the engineering of hydrogen storage tanks over a wide range of technologies as reported in the open literature. Significant progress has been made in hydrogen storage. In many of the alternate storage techniques full scale experimental systems have been built and tested. In some cases these systems can supply hydrogen at required rates under most conditions, but further refinement is needed. At present, compressed gas cylinders and, to a lesser extent, cryogenic tanks remain the storage systems closest to commercialization in vehicles.
The effects of concentration on partitioning of flexible chains into pores

Abstract Equilibrium partitioning between bulk solution and pores was investigated by computer experiment using the Monte Carlo technique. In a multichain athermal system, self-avoiding walks of up to 60 steps were generated on a simple cubic lattice with variable pore size and chain concentration. The results demonstrate that the constraints imposed by the pores and/or neighbouring chains reduce the chain entropy. The entropy related parameter, the partition coefficient K (the equilibrium pore-to-bulk concentration ratio) increases linearly with bulk concentration o. A maximum concentration dependence of K was found for large pores characterized by a coil-to-pore dimension ratio λ of about 0.1–0.3. In this range the increase in bulk concentration brings about a dramatic enhancement of partitioning into pores. The results of computer experiments are compared with predictions of hard-sphere solutes theory and with static and gel-chromatographic measurements of the partitioning equilibrium. The implications of the concentration-dependent coefficient K for hindered transport of flexible polymers inside pores are briefly discussed.
Alkali-stable RNA fragments from Chlorella

Abstract RNA was extracted from synchronous Chlorella pyrenoidosa cells at the stage of rapid cell expansion prior to nuclear division by a modified phenol method. RNA samples were hydrolyzed with KOH and applied to DEAE-cellulose columns. The columns were washed with 0·01 M Tris, pH 7·6 until the eluate contained no u.v.-absorbing material. The retained materials were eluted with a NaCl gradient. Three u.v.-absorbing fractions were distinguished by their order of elution; A, B, and C, respectively. They constituted 9, 2·5, and 1 per cent of the total hydrolysates as judged by absorption. Hydrochloric acid- and spleen phosphodiesterasehydrolysates of the fractions were analyzed by column chromatography and paper electrophoresis. Two thirds of fraction A nucleosides and nine-tenths of fraction B nucleosides contained 2- o -methylribose. Fractions A and B were predominantly composed of purine nucleotides in 3′-5′-phosphodiester linkage. In fraction A the guanosine and cytidine were 2′- o -methylated, while the adenosine was not so substituted. Fractions A and B were dialyzable, but C was not, and exhibited hyperchromicity. Fraction C was also not dialyzable after RNase treatment and yielded only one nucleotide when hydrolyzed with spleen phosphodiesterase. About 95 per cent of this nucleotide was present as the 2′- o -methyl derivative. Acid hydrolysis of fraction C yielded only one u.v.-absorbing compound which appeared to be a free base. All three fractions gave orcinol reactions, but no diphenylamine reaction, 2,3-di- o -methylribose was synthesized and was also found to give an orcinol reaction.
Depth Analysis of Fatty Acids in Two Caribbean Reef Corals

Total fatty acid compositions of colonies of two hermatypic, reef-building corals collected during the day-time over a depth range of 21 m were determined to assess the effect of depth-related environmental factors upon the lipid content of these organisms. No systematic changes were found, suggesting a steady-state balance between algal and animal lipogenesis in these symbiotic partnerships. Stephanocoenia michelinii, a day and night feeder, contained lipids indicative of external dietary sources such as copepods, whereas Montastrea annularis, a night feeder, did not.
PINK1 drives Parkin self-association and HECT-like E3 activity upstream of mitochondrial binding

Genetic studies indicate that the mitochondrial kinase PINK1 and the RING-between-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin function in the same pathway. In concurrence, mechanistic studies show that PINK1 can recruit Parkin from the cytosol to the mitochondria, increase the ubiquitination activity of Parkin, and induce Parkin-mediated mitophagy. Here, we used a cell-free assay to recapitulate PINK1-dependent activation of Parkin ubiquitination of a validated mitochondrial substrate, mitofusin 1. We show that PINK1 activated the formation of a Parkin–ubiquitin thioester intermediate, a hallmark of HECT E3 ligases, both in vitro and in vivo. Parkin HECT-like ubiquitin ligase activity was essential for PINK1-mediated Parkin translocation to mitochondria and mitophagy. Using an inactive Parkin mutant, we found that PINK1 stimulated Parkin self-association and complex formation upstream of mitochondrial translocation. Self-association occurred independent of ubiquitination activity through the RING-between-RING domain, providing mechanistic insight into how PINK1 activates Parkin.
Vitamin D3-sensitive Ca45 binding by microsomal preparations from chick intestinal mucosa

Abstract The preparation of a microsomal fraction from chick intestine which binds calcium by an adenosine triphosphate-dependent process has been described. The amount of Ca45 bound by this preparation was decreased by added vitamin D3 but not by similar concentrations of added vitamin D2, 7-dehydrocholesterol, or ergosterol. Although binding of Ca45 was dependent on added ATP, no effect of vitamin D3 on ATPase activity was detected.
Alternate Approach to Approximating Deteriorated Steel Beam End Capacity

Corrosion of steel beams caused by deicing media is a common problem in northern and mountainous regions of the United States. A common problem is deterioration of steel beam ends in the web and flange near or directly above the bearing area. This results in decreased shear capacity, web-crippling, and web-buckling capacity. This paper presents the results of a study sponsored by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to provide the structural analyst with a simplified, accurate, rapid, and slightly conservative approach for computing the reduced capacity of a rolled steel section. The approach is based on the results of several hundred three-dimensional finite element analyses for a suite of 16 typical steel bridges. The most common shapes and locations for steel beam end deterioration were identified by reviewing detailed inspection reports. Finite element analyses for the steel beam ends with simulated damage of various sizes and shapes was performed with the finite element software ABAQUS. A...
A nonlinear oscillation problem

where the function F(t, X) is defined for t E [0, co), x E (0, cc) and has there the following properties: (a) F(t, X) > 0; (b) F(t, x) is continuous in x for fixed t; (c) in a neighborhood of every x in (0, co), F(t, x) satisfies a uniform Lipschitz condition. -4 solution of (1) is said to be nonoscillatory if, for a > 0, the number of its zeros in (a, DJ) is finite. The equation itself is said to be nonoscillatory if all its solutions have this property. We note here that the conditions imposed onF(t, X) are not quite sufficient to guarantee that any local solution of (1) can be extended to the entire interval (0, co) ([3], [2]), and it may therefore seem to be advisable to use a different definition of nonoscillation. However, this is not necessary. An elementary argument [2] shows that, under our assumptions onF(t, x), a solution of (1) which cannot be continued to the right of a point b must necessarily have an infinite of zeros in a left neighborhood of b. A nonoscillatory solution can thus ipso facto be continued throughout the interval (0, co). Simple examples show that some solutions of an equation of type (1) may oscillate, while others do not ([.5], [6]). Accordingly, one is led to the consideration of two different types of nonoscillation conditions: those which insure the existence of at least one nonoscillatory solution, and those which guarantee that the equation is non-oscillatory. While a number of conditions of the first type are known ([I], [4], [.5], [6]), h t e only criterion of the second type found in the literature seems to be the following condition: If, for OL > 0,
THE SPREAD OF ENGLISH

The Alchemy of English: The Spread, Functions and Models of Non-native Englishes. By Braj B. Kachru.
Variability in the wave climate of the North Pacific: links to interannual and interdecadal variability

Variability in the wave climate of the North Pacific is of interest from many perspectives including coastal management, near-shore engineering, sediment transport and beach erosion, and maritime safety. Recent results document variability in North Pacific winter wave heights (both averages and extremes) over the past 40-50 years as seen in hindcasts produced with wave models driven with winds from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) reanalysis. This variability is marked by changes at a variety of time scales ranging from inter-annual to multi-decadal, the latter dominated by an upward trend in wave heights over much of the eastern North Pacific. It is of interest to link these changes to the dominant modes of circulation variability over the North Pacific, most notably El Nin/spl tilde/o-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Pacific inter-decadal variability (often referred to as the Pacific Decadal Oscillation or PDO). During El Nin/spl tilde/o episodes, and during periods when the PDO index is high, North Pacific winter cyclones tend to be stronger and tend to track farther to the south and east. Such changes in cyclone behavior have important effects on wave climate. This note examines how ENSO and PDO variability are reflected in hindcast North Pacific winter wave climate [as seen in a 50-year hindcast with the WAVEWATCH III model]. To give an example how changes in the large-scale wave climate are expressed in regional coastal waters, results are also shown from a derivative data set created by transforming 3-hourly hindcast deep-water wave spectra from a point just off Point Conception into the Southern California Bight. Other results, most relevant to multi-decadal changes, come from a statistically derived hindcast for the winter North Pacific from 1899-2000 using techniques similar to those applied in the wave trends study in the North Atlantic.
Making a New Deal: Industrial Workers in Chicago, 1919-1939

Preface Introduction 1. Living and working in Chicago in 1919 2. Ethnicity in the New Era 3. Encountering mass culture 4. Contested loyalty at the workplace 5. Adrift in the Great Depression 6. Workers make a New Deal 7. Becoming a union rank and file 8. Workers' common ground Conclusion.
SU-FF-J-62: Calculation of Delivered Dose From Calypso Tracking Data: And Subsequent Evaluation of Reasonable Treatment Interruption Tolerance Limits

Purpose: Calypso is a recently introduced prostate positioning technique which can be used to localize and track prostate position during radiation therapy. In this study the compositedelivereddose based on daily Calypso tracking‐data‐stream and different tolerance limits were calculated. Method and Materials: All IMRTtreatment plans were calculated using Corvus treatment planning system. Two IMRT plans which have PTV margins of 5mm and 3 mm were computed for a prostate cancer patient. Compositedoses for 22 fractions were computed based on daily Calypso tracking‐data for both plans. Compositedoses based on Calypso tolerance shifts were computed for two tolerance levels: 5mm and 3mm. For each level, compositedoses for eight combinations of tolerance shifts were computed. The maximum, mean, minimum doses for CTV, PTV, bladder and rectum were recorded. The volumetric coverage of CTV, PTV, bladder, and rectum for 100% and 95% prescription dose were calculated, along with that of bladder and rectum for 65Gy and 40Gy. Results:Compositedoses based on Calypso tracking‐data‐stream for both 5mm and 3mm PTV margins were similar to the original plan. The difference of maximum, mean, and minimum doses for CTV, PTV, bladder, and rectum was less than 1.3%. The volumetric coverage difference of CTV, PTV, bladder, and rectum for 100% and 95% prescription dose was less than 1.1%, as was of bladder and rectum for 65Gy and 40Gy. For 5mm PTV margin, the prescription dose coverage of CTV volume for compositedose of eight combinations of tolerance shifts for both 3mm and 5mm was over 99.5%. For 3mm PTV margin, that coverage was 98.6% and 88.6% for 3mm and 5mm composite shifts respectively. Conclusion: A realistic prediction of deliveredcompositedose can be calculated using tracking‐data‐stream provided by Calypso. Calculated compositedoses were agreed with the planed doses.
The Decline of TURP—An Irish Experience:

Summary Objective Transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) was once the commonest therapeutic urological surgery performed and the unequivocal gold standard treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). However, efficacious pharmacological therapy and improved understanding of the history of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have impacted upon this. The aim of our study was to assess the transformation in TURP practice in Ireland over the past decade by comparing numbers of the operation being performed over two different time periods (1996–1998 vs. 2001–2003). Methods Numbers of discharges of patients with procedure code TURP (ICD-9-CM 60.2) between 1996–1998 and 2001–2003 were obtained from the National Hospital Inpatient Enquiry database. Population data were obtained from National Censuses. Calculations were expressed per 100,000 of male population ≥50 years of age. Results The number of TURPs performed has fallen from a national average of 587.16/annum/100,000 male population ≥50 years of age between 1996 and 1998 to 371.54/annum/100,000 male population ≥50 years of age between 2001 and 2003, a drop of ∼40%. Furthermore, each health board region has witnessed sizeable declines. Conclusions The Irish experience of LUTS treatment mirrors that across developed nations globally. We believe potentially serious implications exist for standards of care, clinical practice and training.
PRACTITIONERS IN THE CLASSROOM: THE VIEW FROM ONE SIDE

Putting practitioners into the classroom to teach graduate public administration courses is a practice about which surprisingly little has been written. The issues raised in this article are the practitioners role in teaching MPA courses. The author examines three important considerations when practitioners become teachers. First, the method of teaching is explored with special attention being given to case-study type approaches. Next, the authority worlds of academics and practitioners are compared with several differences being highlighted. Finally, the image world of practitioners is examined with a keen eye being placed on critical analysis.
Triplex-directed modification of genes and gene activity

Oligonucleotides offer enormous potential for manipulating gene function in cells and, as such, constitute a promising new class of pharmaceutical agents. Oligonucleotides that form triple helices (triplexes) at specific DNA sequences in defined genes can be used to reduce transcription selectively, to introduce site-specific mutations or to stimulate gene-specific targeted recombination.
Future Impact of Manpower Needs on Ophthalmology Training Programs

Current projections for ophthalmology manpower needs in the year 2000 suggest that the number of new ophthalmologists trained should be frozen at 500 a year. Factors that would cause a need to train more ophthalmologists would be a shorter workweek or workyear, an increased length of time for each patient visit, universal comprehensive health insurance, an earlier age of retirement, and an increased incidence of eye disease. The factor that would most likely reduce the need for new ophthalmologists would be the transfer of primary eye care delivery to nonophthalmologists. Modulation of resident numbers should be based on peerjudged program quality, not on geography or government edict.
An analysis of the relations between fluorescence and photochemistry during photosynthesis

Abstract The dynamics of transfer and trapping of singlet excitation energy in photosynthetic systems have been analysed in terms of several models of the pigmented tissue. The formulations of Joliot and of Vredenberg and Duysens have been derived as special examples of a more general case. Published data on the relation between the yield of chlorophyll (or bacteriochlorophyll) fluorescence and the state of the energy-trapping molecules have been compared with theoretical predictions in an effort to decide what conclusions are afforded about the architecture of the photosynthetic tissue. It is concluded that in photosynthetic bacteria the migration of a singlet excitation quantum in the light harvesting bacteriochlorophyll aggregate extends over at least seven trapping molecules of the type P870, P985, etc.
Intra-minority Intergroup Relations in the Twenty-First Century

Recent projections indicate that by the year 2050, racial minorities will comprise more than 50 percent of the U.S. population. That is, the United States is expected to become a “majority-minority” nation. This essay adopts a social psychological approach to consider how these dramatic demographic changes may affect both racial minorities and white Americans. Specifically, drawing from theoretical work on social identification, the essay examines the likely psychological meaning (if any) of a majority-minority nation for racial minorities' self-concepts and the resulting effects on their evaluations of members of other racial minority groups. In addition, the potential reactions of white Americans to the possibility of becoming a numerical minority are explored. Drawing on reactions to the election of Barack Obama as the first black president of the United States, the authors conclude by discussing the implications of America's shifting racial demographics for the U.S. racial hierarchy.
Framing China and the world through the Olympic opening ceremonies, 1984–2008

This essay focuses on the coverage of the past seven Olympic Opening Ceremonies (1984–2008) through the lens of one national broadcaster: China Central Television (CCTV), which has been the sole Ol...
Coherence between atmospheric teleconnections and Mackenzie River Basin lake levels

Abstract Lake Athabasca (LA), Great Slave Lake (GSL) and Great Bear Lake (GBL) lie within the Mackenzie River Basin (MRB), with GBL and GSL being the ninth and tenth largest lakes in the world by volume. How these lake levels fluctuate in time is important in management of the Peace-Athabasca delta, the ecology of these lakes, and for estimating sediment flux. The understanding of how the MRB lake levels interact with atmospheric teleconnections at different time scales may permit enhanced prediction of MRB water levels. Here we compare five teleconnections (North Pacific (NP), Pacific North American (PNA), Pacific Decadal (PDO), El Nino (MEI) and Arctic Oscillations (AO)) with lake water levels using a squared coherence analysis to determine over what timescales these teleconnections play statistically significant roles within the basin. The relevance of these interactions is then examined using power spectral analysis. We find PNA plays a considerable role in the southern half of the MRB over the interdecadal timescale. In contrast, PDO, despite having large interdecadal fluctuations, plays little role in the interdecadal lake water level fluctuations. Over the 1.1–3 year timescale, several teleconnections also show coherence with lake levels but are of less importance due to small water level fluctuations over that timescale. The coherence between LA and GSL water levels is also reduced over the 1.1–3 year timescale and may be related to flow regulation by the W. A. C. Bennett dam.
Evaluating information assurance strategies

The information revolution has provided new and improved capabilities to rapidly disseminate and employ information in decision-making. Enhancing and enabling for today's modern industry, these capabilities are critical to our national infrastructures. These capabilities, however, often rely upon systems interconnected throughout the world, resulting in potentially increased vulnerability to attack and compromise of data by globally dispersed threats.This paper develops a methodology facilitating the generation of information assurance strategies and implementing measures to assess them. Upon reviewing key factors and features of information assurance, value focused thinking is used to develop an information assurance analysis framework.
The role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of CF lung disease.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease is characterized by a self-perpetuating cycle of airway obstruction, chronic bacterial infection, and vigorous inflammation that results in structural damage to the airway. CF patients have a predilection for infection with a limited spectrum of distinctive bacteria that initiate a vigorous inflammatory response which is more harmful than protective. The airway epithelial cell, which normally expresses the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), directs the inflammatory response. Defects in CFTR are associated with increased production of proinflammatory mediators including IL-8, a potent neutrophil chemoattractant that stimulates the influx of massive numbers of neutrophils into the airways. These neutrophils are the primary effector cells responsible for the pathological manifestations of CF lung disease. Documented deficiencies in immuno regulatory molecules such as IL-10 likely contribute to the generation of the excessive and persistent inflammatory response. Since inflammation is a key contributor to the pathogenesis of CF lung disease, anti-inflammatory therapy must assume a larger role in CF until a cure is discovered. To date, attention has focused primarily on the therapeutic potential of systemic and inhaled corticosteroids and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen. Development of new anti-inflammatory therapies that impact intracellular signaling pathways and cell-cell communication molecules likely will have the greatest impact on limiting the excessive production of the inflammatory mediators in the CF lung, thereby slowing the decline in lung function and improving survival.
The optical excitation spectra of impurity atoms in metals and on metal surfaces

Abstract Electronic excitations of adsorbates on metal surfaces, like those of impurities in the bulk metal, couple the local electronic configurations of the excitation center to the plasmon, phonon and electron-hole pair creation processes of the host metal. In this paper we discuss the basic excitation spectra of metal-adsorbate and metal-impurity complexes. The experimental parallel between adsorbate and impurity spectra is traced for certain especially simple systems, notably halogens, rare gases, alkali impurities and divalent metal atoms, interacting with alkali metal substrates. These experiments focus particular attention on the problem of electron-hole pair creation in the excitation process (the “X-ray edge” problem), which does not appear to he even qualitatively comprehended at present, and on the problem of charge-transfer excitations at adsorbates on metals, for which a semiquantitativc understanding appears to be at hand.
Branched chain amino acid therapy in liver disease.

Patients with hepatic cirrhosis often are malnourished and wasted. If portal-systemic encephalopathy (PSE) develops, restriction of dietary protein in an attempt to treat encephalopathy may further promote negative nitrogen balance. There is considerable interest in providing nutritional supplements to patients with cirrhosis and PSE which would lead to improvement in nitrogen balance while improving or at least not worsening PSE. Amino acid supplements designed to correct the abnormal amino acid pattern characteristically found in patients with cirrhosis and PSE are under investigation as potential therapeutic agents. The levels of the branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) are decreased in almost all patients with cirrhosis and PSE. The exact mechanism for the reductions in BCAA concentrations is unknown. Furthermore, aromatic amino acids (AAA) and methionine (MET) concentrations are usually increased in these patients. It has been suggested that BCAAs and neutral amino acids compete for transport across th...
The Synergy Between Percutaneous Therapies and Noninvasive Diagnostic Imaging

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts . [(1)][1]—Aristotle In only the past few years, we have witnessed innovations in percutaneous coronary intervention and noninvasive imaging that promise to “disrupt” the treatment and diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD). At first glance
A protease-resistant form of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein 4 inhibits IGF-1 actions.

Smooth muscle cells (SMC) secrete a serine protease that cleaves insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (IGFBP)-4 into fragments that have low affinity for IGF-1. When IGFBP-4 is added to monolayer cultures of cell types that do not secrete this protease, IGF-1 stimulation of DNA synthesis is significantly inhibited. In contrast, if cell types that secrete this protease are used, IGFBP-4 is a much less potent inhibitor. These studies were conducted to determine whether proteolysis of IGFBP-4 accounted for its reduced capacity to inhibit IGF-1-stimulated DNA synthesis. The cleavage site in IGFBP-4 that the SMC protease uses was determined to be lysine120, histidine121. A protease-resistant mutant form of IGFBP-4 was prepared, expressed, purified, and tested for biologic activity using porcine SMC cultures. Addition of the protease-resistant mutant resulted in inhibition of DNA and cell migration responses to IGF-1. The inhibition was concentration dependent and was maximal when 500 ng/ml (20 nm) ...
Atomic resolution observations of the point defect structure of depleted zones in ion-irradiated metals

Abstract The point defect structure of individual depleted zones (DZs) created by a variety of different projectile ions, with energies in the range 15–90 keV, was studied employing the field-ion microscope technique [1–9]. The irradiations were performed in situ at a temperature of less than. 15 K in the case of tungsten and 40 K for platinum. The fluence was always less then 10 13 ions cm −2 , so that each depleted zone detected was created by a single energetic projectile ion. The following variables were studied: (1) the effect of varying the initial energy of the projectile ion at constant projectile mass; (2) the effect of varying the projectile mass at constant initial energy of the projectile ion; and (3) the non-linear effects produced by employing dimer ions (W + 2 and Ag + 2 ). The analyses of the depleted zones consisted of measuring and/or determining the following quantities: (1) the number of vacancies per DZ; (2) the spatial distribution of self-interstitial atoms around the DZs in the case of tungsten; (3) the dimensions of the DZs; (4) the vacancy concentration per DZ; (5) the radial distribution function of the vacancies within each DZ; (6) the radiation damage profiles due to the cumulative effects of many DZs; and (7) the non-linear effects produced by the dimer irradiations. The results are discussed and compared with different analytical theories and computer simulations of the primary state of radiation damage.
Changes in the Adult Vertebrate Auditory Sensory Epithelium After Trauma

Auditory hair cells transduce sound vibrations into membrane potential changes, ultimately leading to changes in neuronal firing and sound perception. This review provides an overview of the characteristics and repair capabilities of traumatized auditory sensory epithelium in the adult vertebrate ear. Injured mammalian auditory epithelium repairs itself by forming permanent scars but is unable to regenerate replacement hair cells. In contrast, injured non-mammalian vertebrate ear generates replacement hair cells to restore hearing functions. Non-sensory support cells within the auditory epithelium play key roles in the repair processes.
The nature of phosphogypsum impurities and their influence on cement hydration

Abstract The effects of phosphogypsum on mortar and concrete with respect to setting time and compressive strength are presented. The influence of the phosphogypsum impurities is discussed, and synthetic surrogate phosphogypsums are studied to duplicate the behavior noted with phosphogypsum. A mechanism for the action of these impurities is postulated, and proposals for beneficiation of the impure material are presented.