cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimum-Weight Design for Pressure Vessels Reinforced With Inextensible Fibers

Strong, lightweight pressure vessels can be constructed by winding glass fiber around supporting shells. Zickel1 and Fraser2 have discussed some of the advantages of isotensoid designs, in which every fiber is under the same tension, and geodesic designs, in which the fibers lie along geodesics on the supporting shell. The shell is taken to be cylindrically symmetrical. Zickel1 considered fibers lying along geodesics which intersect the equator of the shell at a single given angle, and derived the shape of the surface for which the design is isotensoid as well as geodesic. Fraser2 extended this work by considering designs with several families of fibers, intersecting the equator at various given angles, and again derived the surface shape for which the design is isotensoid.
Parametric studies of carbon erosion mitigation dynamics in beryllium seeded deuterium plasmas

Abstract The characteristic time of protective beryllium layer formation on a graphite target, τBe/C, has been investigated as a function of surface temperature, Ts, ion energy, Ei, ion flux, Γi, and beryllium ion concentration, cBe, in beryllium seeded deuterium plasma. τBe/C is found to be strongly decreased with increasing Ts in the range of 550–970 K. This is thought to be associated with the more efficient formation of beryllium carbide (Be2C). By scanning the parameters, a scaling expression for τBe/C has been derived as τ Be / C [ s ] = 1.0 × 10 - 7 c Be - 1.9 ± 0.1 E i 0.9 ± 0.3 Γ i - 0.6 ± 0.3 exp ( ( 4.8 ± 0.5 ) × 10 3 / T s ) , where cBe is dimensionless, Ei in eV, Γi in 1022 m−2 s−1 and Ts in K. Should this scaling extend to an ITER scenario, carbon erosion of the divertor strike point region may be reduced with characteristic time of ∼6 ms. This is much shorter than the time between predicted ITER type I ELMs (∼1 s), and suggests that protective beryllium layers can be formed in between ELMs, and mitigate carbon erosion.
Efficient testing of simulation V&V for closed-loop operations

An essential element of simulation verification and validation (V&V) involves thorough testing of all required functional and physical interfaces to the units under test (UUT). Charles Stark Draper Laboratory (CSDL) has developed and applied an efficient methodology to test simulations which involves automatically generating test software, scripts, and procedures by extracting information directly from system design tools. This process ensures consistency between the simulation interfaces and the UUT, and expedites the test and verification of those interfaces, which in turn allows the simulation to be updated and delivered to users more quickly. This paper describes the application of this process to the simulation of a manned space vehicle. The vehicle simulation is used to test and integrate avionics and software as they evolve throughout the entire program life cycle. The design of the simulation must therefore also evolve in parallel with the software and avionics architecture and interfaces. The simulation supports other vehicle development and training operations, which impose additional interface requirements. In order to provide these capabilities, the simulation must support many types of interfaces, and it must operate in several operating modes. The operating modes of the simulation include: Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Processor-in-the-Loop (PIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL). Given the range of operational modes and interfaces involved, and the required flexibility of the simulation system, it is desired to design the test procedures in a similar manner. The tests must be able to verify the system-level requirement on the simulation to conform to the vehicle signal interface control document (ICD). With a CSDL-developed module, embedded queries are inserted into scripts used to generate test files, test data, and analysis scripts for the testing process. Each of three modes described above (SIL, PIL, and HIL) are tested. The primary driver for design of the testing process is automation. It is desired to minimize the manpower needed for the performance of the test procedure. By taking advantage of the vehicle signal database, SIL and PIL testing and verification are nearly entirely push-button endeavors from generation of the version-dependent test files for commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) testing tools through validation of the data exchanged over the interface. Verification of the design of the HIL test with respect to the required electrical characteristics and data formatting is done utilizing a combination of COTS hardware and software design programs. CSDL utilizes a COTS modular platform to host an internal embedded computer along with multiple input/output boards to emulate the HIL interfaces. This modularity enables the team to quickly respond to altered interfaces or data specifications. The user interface portion allows the user to easily identify and manipulate signals sent to the simulation and real-time verification of those received.
The role of phosphate compounds in thaw contraction and the mechanism of thaw rigor

Abstract 1. Frozen frog sartorius muscles, when thawed rapidly, contracted in 5 sec performing up to 300 g·cm external work per g muscle. The contraction was characterized by a release of Ca2+ and rapid utilization of ATP. 2. In muscles pre-treated with 0.38 mM FDNB in a bicarbonate saline solution the efficiency based on the total ATP used was 17.3 ± 1.8 g·m work per μmole (4% at −10 kcal per mole ATP being split to ADP). In addition to the actomyosin ATPase, the following enzyme systems were found to be active: adenylate kinase, adenylate deaminase and the formation of hexose monophosphates. ATP: creatine phosphotransferase was completely inhibited. The muscles went rapidly into rigor while much active tension was maintained. 3. In untreated aerobic muscles, the thaw contraction used ATP and phosphorylcreatine. This was followed by a phase of lengthening under the load and rigor developed only 20–30 min later at 24°. This pre-rigor phase was accompanied by increased levels of ADP. 4. When rigor developed (both FDNB-treated and untreated muscles) the sarcoplasmic level of ADP was very low. Thus, the development of rigor requires the absence of both ADP and ATP.
Dominating Knowledge: Development, Culture, and Resistance.

Stephen A. Marglin: Towards decolonization of the mind Tariq Banuri: Development and the politics of knowledge: A critical interpretation of the social role of modernization Tariq Banuri: Modernization and its discontents: A cultural perspective on the theories of development Frederique Apffel Marglin: Smallpox in two systems of knowledge Ashis Nandy, & Shiv Visvanathan: Modern medicine and its non-modern critics: A study in discourse Arjun Appadurai: Technology and the reproduction of values in rural Western India Stephen A. Marglin: Losing touch: The cultural conditions of worker accommodation and resistance
A Particle Filter for Inverse Lagrangian Prediction Problems

Abstract The authors present a numerical method for the inverse Lagrangian prediction problem, which addresses retrospective estimation of drifter trajectories through a turbulent flow, given their final positions and some knowledge of the flow field. Of particular interest is probabilistic estimation of the origin (or launch site) of drifters for practical applications in search and rescue operations, drifting sensor array design, and biochemical source location. A typical solution involves a Monte Carlo simulation of an ensemble of Lagrangian trajectories backward in time using the known final locations, a set of velocity estimates, and a stochastic model for the unresolved flow components. Because of the exponential dispersion of the trajectories, however, the distribution of the drifter locations tends to be too diffuse to be able to reliably locate the launch site. A particle filter that constrains the drifter ensemble according to the empirical dispersion characteristics of the flow field is examine...
Early repair of episiotomy dehiscence associated with infection.

Abstract OBJECTIVE : The purpose of our study was to examine early repair of episiotomy dehiscences in a large urban hospital setting serving a predominantly indigent population. STUDY DESIGN : Since September 1, 1989, we have proceeded with early repair in the immediate postpartum period. The medical records of 34 of 35 patients who underwent early repair were reviewed. RESULTS : Of the 34 patients, 21 (62%) had midline and 13 (38%) had mediolateral episiotomies. Dehiscence was associated with episiotomy infection in 27 (79%) of the 34 patients: 18 (86%) in the midline group and 9 (69%) in the mediolateral group. Repair was accomplished from 3 to 13 days ( = 6.4) after dehiscence. Successful repairs were accomplished in 32 (94%) of 34 patients. Two (6%) patients with initial third-degree episiotomies had a subsequent breakdown of their repairs and were allowed to heal by secondary intention. CONCLUSIONS : Although most dehiscences in our population were associated with infection, early repairin this population is associated with a satisfactory outcome in the vast majority. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1992;167:1104–7.)
Comparative study of the size and shape of human anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments

As an important step toward determination of the function of cruciate ligaments, the cross-sectional shapes and areas of the anterior cruciate, posterior cruciate, and meniscofemoral ligaments were evaluated in situ within the same knee with use of a laser micrometer system. Measurements were made in eight human cadaveric knees at five levels along the midsubstance of each ligament, with the knee at 0 degree, 30 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees of flexion. The posterior cruciate ligament was found to be widest in the medial-lateral direction, whereas the anterior cruciate ligament usually was larger in the anterior-posterior direction. The cross-sectional shapes of the anterior cruciate ligament generally were noted to be more circular along the entire midsubstance than were those of the posterior cruciate ligament. In contrast, the cross-sectional shapes of the posterior cruciate ligament were more circular near the tibia, becoming progressively more elongated toward the femur. The meniscofemoral ligaments were more circular than the cruciate ligaments, with an occasional medial-lateral widening similar to that of the posterior cruciate ligament. The cross-sectional area of both the cruciate ligaments changed along the length of the midsubstance, with the anterior cruciate ligament becoming slightly larger distally and the posterior cruciate ligament enlarging proximally. The angle of flexion of the knee was not found to have a significant effect on the cross-sectional areas of the ligaments but was noted to alter the cross-sectional shapes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Shuttle radar mapping with diverse incidence angles in the rainforest of Borneo

Abstract Shuttle Imaging Radar-B (SIR-B) images, obtained at two different incidence angles were analysed for discrimination and mapping of vegetation in the rainforest of Borneo. In an area of coastal lowland three units of forest canopy and two units of open surface cover were distinguished and mapped. The backscatter characteristics of the units were compared and analysed by ratioing digital image data of sample sites against digital data of reference sites. The ratios show that the backscatter for each surface unit is clustered in separate, mostly non-overlapping, domains at both incidence angles. Different rates of change with incidence angle indicate a strong angular dependence in the dominant backscatter mechanism of swamp that is not apparent for the other units. A corresponding digitally coregistered Landsat multispectral scanner (MSS) image helped to verify the spatial distribution of the mapped units in the coastal lowland. In the interior upland three major forest species associations that hav...
Relationship‐oriented characteristics and individual salesperson performance

One of the recent trends in sales research has been a growing focus on relationally based buyer‐seller interactions. Although existing sales literature is in general agreement as to the theoretical composition of buyer‐seller relationships, a lack of empirical evidence exists for the interrelationships of various aspects of relational selling (e.g. customer orientation, adaptability, and service orientation) on individual salespersons’ performance. Investigates the effect of these relational selling characteristics on the performance of individual salespeople. The results show a positive relationship exists between customer orientation and actual performance as measured by average annual sales dollars. Implications of the results for sales managers and sales researchers are discussed.
Systematics of the spider genus Metabus O. P.‐Cambridge, 1899 (Araneoidea: Tetragnathidae) with additions to the tetragnathid fauna of Chile and comments on the phylogeny of Tetragnathidae

The spider genus Metabus (Tetragnathidae) previously included nine species: the type M. gravidus O. P.-Cambridge, 1899 – junior synonym of Leucauge ocellata (Keyserling) – from Central America and eight species from Chile. In this paper, the classification of the Metabus species-complex is revised, and two new genera, with three new species and five new combinations, are described. Allende gen. nov. is created for four Chilean species not congeneric with the type of Metabus: the type A. puyehuensis sp. nov., A. patagiatus (Simon) comb. nov., A. nigrohumeralis (F. O. P.-Cambridge) comb. nov. and A. longipes (Nicolet) comb. nov. Further additions to the Chilean fauna are under the new genus Mollemeta gen. nov.– created for M. edwardsi (Simon) comb. nov.– and three new species of Chrysometa: C. acinosa sp. nov., C. levii sp. nov. and C. maitae sp. nov.Metabus now includes four species: M. ocellatus (Keyserling) comb. nov., M. debilis (O. P.-Cambridge) comb. nov., M. ebanoverde sp. nov. and M. conacyt sp. nov. All of these species were included in a phylogenetic analysis of 38 tetragnathid and 12 orbicularian outgroup terminals scored for 105 morphological and behavioural characters. The results suggest that Metabus as previously circumscribed is polyphyletic. The phylogenetic relationships within tetragnathids are briefly discussed. © 2007 The Linnean Society of London, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2007, 151, 285–335.
Effect of beta-glucan level in oat fiber extracts on blood lipids in men and women.

An active hypolipidemic component in oats, the soluble fiber beta-glucan, has been concentrated in an oat fiber extract. The oat fiber extract has been used to replace fat in food products. This study was designed to determine if moderate levels of oat fiber extract could be incorporated into a typical diet and whether plasma lipids could be reduced by the amount of beta-glucan added to the diet.Oat fiber extracts containing low (1% by weight) or high (10% by weight) beta-glucan were fed to 23 mildly hypercholesterolemic subjects (seven men and 16 women). A maintenance diet was fed for 1 week followed by diet containing an oat extract for 5 weeks each in a crossover pattern. Five percent of the energy from fat in the maintenance diet was replaced with the oat extract in the experimental diets. Caloric intake was adjusted to try to maintain each subject's initial weight. Fasting blood was collected several days apart after separate 12 hour fasts the end of each period. Plasma was analyzed for triglycerides...
Reactions of organic disulfides and gold(i) complexes.

Gold-thiolate/disulfide exchange reactions of (p-SC6H4Cl)2 with Ph3PAu(SC6H4CH3), dppm(AuSC6H4CH3)2, and dppe(AuSC6H4CH3) 2 were investigated. The rate of reactivity of the gold-thiolate complexes with (p-SC6H4Cl)2 is: dppm(AuSC6H4CH3)2>> dppe(AuSC6H4CH3)2>Ph2PAu (SC6H4CH3). This order correlates with conductivity measurements and two ionic mechanisms have been evaluated. 1H NMR experiments demonstrate that in the reaction of dppm(AuSC6H4CH3)2 with (p-SC6H4Cl)2, the mixed disulfide, ClC6H4SSC6H4CH3, forms first, followed by the formation of (p-SC6H4CH3)2. The rate law is first order in (pp-SC6H 4Cl)2 and partial order in dppm(AuSC6H4CH3)2. Results from electrochemical and chemical reactivity studies suggest that free thiolate is not involved in the gold-thiolate/disulfide exchange reaction. A more likely source of ions is the dissociation of a proton from the methylene backbone of the dppm ligand which has been shown to exchange with D2O. The implications of this are discussed in terms of a possible mechanism for the gold-thiolate/disulfide exchange reaction.
The figural problem solving and problem finding of professional and semiprofessional artists and nonartists

Abstract: The processes of finding a solution to a stated problem and those employed in formulating a problem prior to determining a solution strategy are implied by the behaviors observed in the manipulation of figural symbol systems. Sixty adult participants agreed to be videotaped while given two measures of spatial visualization, a figural problem‐solving activity, and two games which required defining a problem prior to producing a result. When groups, defined by their experience in producing ideas in art, were compared, traditional quantitative measures of performance yielded few significant differences. However, multivariate analyses of the observed qualitative variables resulted in significant differences. Theoretical and educational implications are discussed.
Echocardiographic diagnosis of cardiac allograft rejection.

Abstract Current echocardiographic methods are promising for detection of rejection either as an increase in LV mass or a decrease in LV compliance. Both increased mass and decreased compliance during rejection may be mediated by the common mechanism of edema. Edema will appear specifically as increased wall volume in quantitative echocardiograms and, through decreased LV compliance, will be reflected in doppler-derived indices of diastolic filling. Initial difficulties with quantitative echocardiography related to image quality have largely been resolved. These have been replaced by concern for factors independent of rejection that affect LV mass, including hypertrophy due to hypertension or denervation-induced catecholamine hypersensitivity, and secondary effects of the immunosuppressive agents. An additional difficulty with quantitative echocardiography is that convenience for the patient is offset by the labor-intensive nature of planimetry-based analysis that has not yet been supplanted by fully automated methods. Diastolic function abnormalities within the early months following transplantation are indicators of acute rejection. However, their value in the long-term management of transplantation recipients may be diminished by effects of myocardial fibrosis, hypertension-induced hypertrophy, and accelerated coronary atherosclerosis. Analysis of echocardiographically derived indices of diastolic function is also a labor-intensive process that may not be economically feasible in the clinical setting. Echocardiography does have unique advantages for characterizing the functional changes accompanying late-onset chronic rejection. At the present time, echocardiographic techniques cannot replace endomyocardial biopsy; however, echocardiography can be a useful adjunct in the monitoring of patients for acute rejection. Clinical experience has demonstrated that both increased LV mass and abnormalities of doppler-derived indices of diastolic function can herald the onset of acute rejection in some patients that may be missed by standard techniques of immunological surveillance. Experience is insufficient to define whether different sensitivities of echo measurements and endomyocardial biopsy are statistical anomalies or reflect specific differences in the physiology of rejection. Similarly, it is unclear whether poor clinical results frequently seen in such instances reflect a fundamental property of the rejection episode or relatively late detection and treatment. A combined echocardiographic approach that includes measurement of LV mass, ultrasound tissue characterization, and evaluation of diastolic function would lead to further understanding of the interrelationship between the anatomical and physiological changes in the transplanted heart. The applications of echocardiography to the study of the cardiac allograft are multiple, and can be expected to increase as technology continues to improve.
Extending the domain of APL

This paper explores connectivity mechanisms between APL and other languages and applications available on a modern computer system. The design, implementation, and application of APL facilities such as shared variables, auxiliary processors, external names, file subsystems, and namespaces, as they are implemented in IBM's APL2 product, are discussed and compared.
Beat-to-beat three-dimensional ECG variability predicts ventricular arrhythmia in ICD recipients

Background Methodological difficulties associated with QT measurements prompt the search for new electrocardiographic markers of repolarization heterogeneity. Objective We hypothesized that beat-to-beat 3-dimensional vectorcardiogram variability predicts ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in patients with structural heart disease, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, and implanted implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs). Methods Baseline orthogonal electrocardiograms were recorded in 414 patients with structural heart disease (mean age 59.4 ± 12.0; 280 white [68%] and 134 black [32%]) at rest before implantation of ICD for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. R and T peaks of 30 consecutive sinus beats were plotted in 3 dimensions to form an R peaks cloud and a T peaks cloud. The volume of the peaks cloud was calculated as the volume within the convex hull. Patients were followed up for at least 6 months; sustained VA with appropriate ICD therapies served as an end point. Results During a mean follow-up time of 18.4 ± 12.5 months, 61 of the 414 patients (14.73% or 9.6% per person-year of follow-up) experienced sustained VA with appropriate ICD therapies: 41 of them were white and 20 were black. In the multivariate Cox model that included inducibility of VA and use of beta-blockers, the highest tertile of T/R peaks cloud volume ratio significantly predicted VA (hazard ratio 1.68, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 2.80; P = .046) in all patients. T peaks cloud volume and T/R peaks cloud volume ratio were significantly smaller in black subjects (median 0.09 [interquartile range 0.04 to 0.15] vs. median 0.11 [interquartile range 0.06 to 0.22], P = .002). Conclusion A relatively large T peaks cloud volume is associated with increased risk of VA in patients with structural heart disease and systolic dysfunction.
HT and CVD prevention. from myth to reality.

Abstract Menopausal hormone therapy has no evidence-based role for the primary or secondary prevention of coronary heart disease. Coronary prevention should involve lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions documented as beneficial in randomized clinical trials and promulgated in national guidelines.
A micromethod for silica-gel column chromatography of urinary organic acids

Abstract Silica-gel column Chromatographic method for the quantitative determination of micro-quantities of 12 different, physiologically most important, organic acids in mixtures, as well as in human and rat urine samples, is described. This method is simple, accurate, rapid, and has a high degree of sensitivity. It yields a high percentage of recovery and the results are reproducible. The identity of the acids separated by this technique has been repeatedly confirmed by paper chromatography; known pure acids were compared with those eluted from the silica-gel column used in this method.
Column access of a bubble lattice: column translation and lattice translation

The use of a regular array. or lattice, of magnetic bubbles for the storage of information requires two kinds of functions: the read-write functions involving the generation and discrimination of bubbles with different wall structures, and the access functions involving the insertion and removal of bubbles at selected locations in the lattice. In a column-accessed bubble lattice device, accessing is accomplished by first translating the lattice to position the desired column of bubbles in an input-output access channel and then translating this column along the channel to a detector area outside of the lattice while simultaneously introducing new bubbles from a generator area at the other end of the channel. An analysis of the influence of device design parameters on access rate indicates that the most important parameters are the column translation rate and lattice capacity. A device is described that was designed to study the translation of a lattice of bubbles and of a single column of bubbles within the lattice. Quasistatic operating margins and dynamic measurements of this test device indicate that the column-access configuration provides feasible means for the rapid access of bubbles from a lattice.
James-Stein shrinkage to improve k-means cluster analysis

We study a general algorithm to improve the accuracy in cluster analysis that employs the James-Stein shrinkage effect in k-means clustering. We shrink the centroids of clusters toward the overall mean of all data using a James-Stein-type adjustment, and then the James-Stein shrinkage estimators act as the new centroids in the next clustering iteration until convergence. We compare the shrinkage results to the traditional k-means method. A Monte Carlo simulation shows that the magnitude of the improvement depends on the within-cluster variance and especially on the effective dimension of the covariance matrix. Using the Rand index, we demonstrate that accuracy increases significantly in simulated data and in a real data example.
Decision Support for Consumer Direct Grocery Initiatives

Many companies with consumer direct service models, especially grocery delivery services, have found that home delivery poses an enormous logistical challenge due to the unpredictability of demand coupled with strict delivery windows and low profit margin products. These systems have proven difficult to manage effectively and could benefit from new technology, particularly to manage the interaction between order capture and order delivery. In this article, we define routing and scheduling problems that incorporate important features of this emerging business model and propose algorithms, based on insertion heuristics, for their solution. In the proposed home delivery problem, the company decides which deliveries to accept or reject as well as the time slot for the accepted deliveries so as to maximize expected profits. Computational experiments reveal the importance of an approach that integrates order capture with order delivery and demonstrates the quality and value of the proposed algorithms.
Lipid organization in peripheral nerve: Natural abundance carbon-13 NMR spectroscopy on intact tissues

Summary Native structures of peripheral nerve myelin can directly be observed by carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy after dissecting epineurial and perineurial tissue sheaths from the endoneurium. NMR spectra of the intact endoneurial tissue describe a highly ordered and largely immobilized lipid phase in the myelin membrane which is in marked contrast to the fluid-like lipid distribution in the intracellular lipid droplets of epineurium and perineurium. Membrane reconstitution experiments with total endoneurial lipids, but without protein, suggest a primary role of the lipids in myelin bilayer assembly. Reconstitution experiments also indicate that polar lipid-protein interactions in native myelin involve the CH2-N function of choline phospholipids, in particular.
Clinical implications of aging physiology

The increasing biologic uniqueness of older persons requires an individualized approach to their medical care. The physician must be aware of his or her own attitudes and beliefs regarding aging and death and how these views influence the physician-patient relationship. The physician must understand how older persons behave when they are ill and know how to interpret a changing constellation of multiple disease possibilities and interrelationships. The physician requires knowledge skills and the willingness to carefully evaluate each individual situation and to formulate a specifically tailored care plan. Because of the magnitude and complexity of medical, psychological, and social problems in older persons, the physician must cooperate with other members of the health care team. The accumulation and constant refinement of these skills defines the maturity and scientific grounding of the physician.
MOCVD epitaxial growth of single crystal GaN, AlN and AlxGa1-xN

Ga begins to deposit from a stream of trimethylgallium (TMG) in H2 at a minimum temperature of 475‡C. Addition of sufficient amounts of NH2 results in the growth of textured polycrystalline GaN on basal plane sapphire substrates above 500‡C. A minimum temperature of 800‡C is required for the epitaxial growth of GaN on the substrate. Under similar conditions, but with the TMG replaced with trimethylaluminum (TMA), polycrystalline A1N begins forming at 400‡C (in the absence of NH3,, the TMA starts pyrolyzing at 300‡C), but single crystal growth of A1N requires a temperature of at least 1200‡C. Epitaxial single crystal layers of Alx Ga1-x N can be grown in the temperature range 800−1200‡C, tne minimum temperature being approximately proportional to x, but preferential deposition of A1N on the hot walls of the reactor (>400‡C) precludes precise control of the alloy composition. This predeposition of A1N can be retarded by keeping the walls below 400‡C by using a water-cooled jacket, by rapid flow-rates, or by injecting the TMA through a nozzle close to the surface of the substrate.
The Development of a Public-Private Partnership to Improve HIV/AIDS Consumers' Access to Quality Health Information

The Consumers' Boston AIDS Information Outreach Project (CBAIOP) was implemented to improve access to health care information for HIV/AIDS consumers in Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. The Project, sponsored by the Boston University Medical Center Library and the Boston Public Health Commission AIDS Program, included three primary components: (1) information skills workshops for HIV/AIDS consumers, (2) a Web site with quality-filtered links to HIV/AIDS information resources, and (3) a Web-based information skills tutorial. This article provides an overview of the project and discusses the impact of collaborative programs on improved information-access and information-seeking skills for HIV/AIDS and other health care consumers.
The origin of cholecystokinin terminals in the basal forebrain of the rat: Evidence from immunofluorencence and retrograde tracing

Abstract The origins of cholecystokinin (CCK) fibers in the olfactory tubercle, nucleus accumbens and amygdala of the basal forebrain of the albino rat were studied with combined immunofluorescence and fluorescent retrograde tracing techniques. In each case, the majority of the CCK innervation arises topograpically from subpopulations of neurons in the substantia nigra-ventral tegmental area of the midbrain. This ascending CCK input to the forebrain appears to exceed the amount of descending CCK input from the cortex. In this regard, the CCK innervation of limbic structures is quite different from that of the neostriatum. It has been reported that the CCK innervation of the neostriatum is derived primarily from piriform cortex as a descending corticostriatal projection. Limbic structures, on the other hand, are primarily innervated by ascending CCK, as well as local circuit, projections.
Breast cancer among Alaska Native women potentially exposed to environmental organochlorine chemicals.

Objectives. To determine if an increased rate of breast cancer in Alaska Native women is related to their consumption of a subsistence diet that may contain p,p’-dichlorodiphenylethylene (DDE) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Study Design. A retrospective case control design. Methods. We analyzed banked serum collected between 1981 and 1987 from 126 Alaska Native women, including 63 case women who subsequently developed breast cancer and 63 age-matched control women who remained cancer-free. Serum was analyzed for DDT, DDE, 13 other chlorinated pesticides, and 28 PCB congeners. Results. The geometric mean for p,p’-DDE levels among case women was 8.67 ppb (95% Confidence Interval 7.48, 10.04); among control women, the geometric mean was 7.36 ppb (6.53, 8.30). The geometric mean for total PCB levels among case women was 4.55 ppb (3.61, 5.74) and for control women, the geometric mean was 6.10 ppb (4.73, 7.86). Cancer status and total PCB levels varied across ethnicity (i.e., Eskimo, Aleut, and Indian) but DDE levels were uniform among these ethnic groups. Using conditional logistic regression analysis to adjust for potential confounders (e.g., ethnicity, family history of breast cancer, parity), we found an odds ratio of 1.43 (0.46, 4.47) for the highest tertile of DDE exposure and 0.42 (0.07, 2.38) for the highest tertile of total PCB exposure. Conclusions. Although the results are limited by small sample size and restricted risk factor information, our findings of higher DDE levels, but lower PCB levels among women with breast cancer are consistent with previous research. Our results confirm exposure to organochlorines among Alaska Native women but do not identify these exposures as a significant risk factor for breast cancer. International Journal of Circumpolar Health 65:1 2006 Keywords: breast cancer, Alaska Natives, organochlorines, persistent organic pollutants, environmental pollution
An attempt to analyze multi-unit recordings

Abstract In neurophysiological experiments it is sometimes desirable or inevitable to record signals from several units simultaneously with a single electrode. In either case, one wishes to separate the recorded spike potentials with regard to their sources. A “single” unit must be defined either on the basis of spike wave form, or on an operational basis by means of recurring patterns in spike discharge. The first approach can be and has been pursued by means of special electronic equipment. The second approach usually requires a search for a meaningful operational criterion, and can be aided materially by the use of an appropriate computer system. This note illustrate the use of a computer system in two attempts to analyze complex data in which spike potentials from several neurons were involved. If spike potentials from several units are recorded simultaneously with a single electrode, digital computers with graphic display facilities may be used to advantage to separate the signals from the various units rapidly. Two simple methods for separation are discussed, one using the wave shape, the other using operational criteria. These methods are illustrated by applications to research in the fly and cat central nervous systems.
Spectrographic determination of selenium in stibnite

Stibnite, Sb2S3, is present in low-temperature ore deposits of many genetic types. It occurs as the principal ore mineral in most antimony deposits, which contain only small amounts of other metals. The mineral is associated with arsenic, mercury, and thallium sulfides in Carlin-type gold deposits in which stibnite contains as much as 15 mol percent As2S3. Preliminary studies by routine spectrographic analysis indicate that stibnite contains several hundred micrograms per gram of such other elements as copper, lead, zinc, bismuth, cadmium, mercury, thallium, silver, tellurium, and selenium. These elements, especially selenium, volatilize from the arc so rapidly that it becomes extremely difficult for the optical system to detect and record their emission spectra. Therefore, we have developed a new set of analytical conditions that optimize the determination of these volatile elements. We report here on a quantitative spectrographic method suitable for the determination of selenium in a few milligrams of stibnite and applicable in evaluating the compositional variations of selenium in stibnite over a wide range of sample sizes and concentrations.
Pressure dependence of thin polycrystalline silicon carbide diaphragm resonators

Square poly cry stalline 3C silicon carbide (poly-SiC) thin diaphragms with large aspect ratios (i.e., side length to thickness: L/t ∼ 600) are explored as a structural material for micromechanical resonators. The effects of varying pressure on the characteristics of multiple resonant modes are studied. Load-deflection tests reveal a Young's modulus of E Y = 344 ± 13 GPa and a residual (built-in) stress of σ 0 = 113 ± 10 MPa. Cyclic loading tests of the diaphragms show no changes in E Y and σ 0 values after over 30,000 cycles. Resonance measurements of the diaphragms at approximately 5mTorr show peaks with quality (Q) factors of Q's « 14,000 and 45,000 for the first two flexural resonance modes at 85.5kHz and 137.6kHz. With increasing pressure, the measured resonance frequencies shift higher (i.e., stiffening), by approximately 1.7kHz or 1.9% for the 85.5kHz peak, and 1.8kHz or 1.3% for the 137.6kHz peak. Meanwhile, Q's are observed to decrease to ∼400 at 20Torr for the 85.5kHz resonance and to ∼3600 at 2Torr for the 137.6kHz resonance. Simultaneously as the pressure increases, the peak amplitude of the resonance reduces by 97% for the mode at 85.5kHz, and by 93% for the 137.6kHz resonance. These characteristics may be exploited for resonant pressure sensing using poly-SiC.
New device and technique for application of irreversible electroporation for focal rectal ablation

Purpose Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a non thermal ablation technique whose working mechanism allows the sparing of extracellular matrix and lumen structures within the ablated region. This makes IRE a potentially valuable tool for the debulking, palliation or for the treatment of rectal tumors while providing quality of life benefits over surgical resection and anastomosis. However, there is a lack of devices and knowledge as to how this therapy can be delivered for focal ablation in the rectum. Materials and Methods CT-guided IRE ablations were performed using a specially designed endorectal electrode probe. A monopolar probe with a grounding pad was used to create 10 ablations in 5 pigs, and a bipolar probe was used to create 2 ablations in a single pig. Numerical simulations were used to identify two treatment settings, one that would result in the ablation of just the mucosal layers and a second setting that would cause transmural ablation of the rectal wall. Each treatment setting was attempted once in each animal. The pigs were sacrificed acutely and the rectum was removed for pathological analysis. Results Treatment proceeded normally with minimal rectal bleeding, no treatment related complications or perforation of the rectum. 9 of the 10 monopolar lesions and both bipolar lesions were successfully located and extracted. All lesions evidenced uniform coagulative necrosis with mild inflammation and hyperemia. There was a sharp demarcation between ablated and adjacent normal tissue. The lesions corresponded in shape and the depth of penetration to the values predicted using numerical simulation. Lesions created with the lower treatment setting resulted in complete ablation of the mucosal layers with superficial or no injury to muscularis propia. Lesions created with the higher treatment setting resulted in uniform ablation with transmural necrosis of the rectal wall. Conclusion An endorectal probe can be used to safely deliver IRE treatment and create controlled focal lesions in the rectal wall. Treatment parameters can be determined through numerical modeling to control the depth of penetration of the lesion and an endorectal electrode probe be used to deliver the treatment.
Tree-species range shifts in a changing climate: detecting, modeling, assisting

In these times of rapidly changing climate, the science of detecting and modeling shifts in the ranges of tree species is advancing of necessity. We briefly review the current state of the science on several fronts. First, we review current and historical evidence for shifting ranges and migration. Next, we review two broad categories of methods, focused on the spatial domain, for modeling potential range shifts and future suitable habitat: empirical species-distribution models and more process-based simulations. We propose long-term demography studies as a complementary approach in the time domain when sufficient data are available. Dispersal and successful migration into newly suitable habitat are key mechanisms constraining range shifts. We review three approaches to estimating these processes, followed by a discussion of the potential for assisted migration. We conclude that there have been significant recent advances on several fronts but there are still large uncertainties that need further research.
Intermediate Coupling as Encountered in Some of the p -Shell Nuclei

The manner in which a transition into intermediate coupling, between the extremes of ($\mathrm{jj}$) coupling and ($\mathrm{LS}$) coupling, accounts for much of the failure of the ($\mathrm{jj}$) coupling shell model in the light nuclei of the $p$-shell is illustrated by some typical examples. The set of secular equations for the configurations ${p}^{2}$ and ${p}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$ applying to ${\mathrm{Li}}^{6}$+${\mathrm{He}}^{6}$ and to ${\mathrm{N}}^{14}$+${\mathrm{C}}^{14}$ is sufficiently simple to be worked out in detail. In the configuration ${p}^{8}$ which applies to ${\mathrm{C}}^{12}$+${\mathrm{B}}^{12}$ the states are much more numerous and the equations are too complex to be solved in detail, but the solutions for the low states of interest may be treated by approximate methods, relying on some knowledge of the asymptotic behavior in the extremes. The general features of observed energy spectra for ${p}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$ and for ${p}^{8}$ are both compatible with the intermediate coupling scheme with the same ratio $\frac{a}{K}\ensuremath{\approx}5$ of the spin-orbit coupling parameter $a$ to the "exchange integral" $K$, which separates multiplets. The criterion for whether the spectrum of the low states slightly resembles ($\mathrm{LS}$) coupling, as it does in ${\mathrm{C}}^{12}$+${\mathrm{B}}^{12}$, rather than ($\mathrm{jj}$) coupling, as in ${\mathrm{N}}^{14}$+${\mathrm{C}}^{14}$, is not just the value of $a$ relative to $K$ but the magnitude of $a$ relative to the multiplet separations provided by $K$ in ($\mathrm{LS}$) coupling, which are exceptionally large among the low states of ${\mathrm{C}}^{12}$.
Leptin's activity on the hydroxyl radical: a possible link to the oxidative stress-related endothelial vasodilation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

Purpose: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity, whereas the underlying mechanism is still eluding, the thought participants are chronic intermittent hypoxia with consequent increase in the reactive oxygen species, leading to endothelial cell damage and dysfunction in these patients. As the hydroxyl radical (•OH) mediates the vascular smooth muscle relaxation, identification of its scavengers might reveal sentinel markers of decreased vascular responsiveness and worse long-term comorbid outcome. We therefore assessed leptin’s scavenger effect on ·OH using the electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) method. Methods: The ·OH was generated by the Fenton reaction in the presence of spin-trap 5-diethoxyphosphoryl-5-methyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) with various concentrations of leptin (0.25, 2.5, and 25 µg/ml) and without leptin. EPR spectrometer settings were: modulation frequency, 100 kHz; X band microwave frequency, 9.5 GHz; microwave power, 20 mW (milliwatts); modulation amplitude, 1.0 G (gauss); time constant, 160 s; scan time, 200 s; and receiver gain, 1 × l05. EPR signal intensity between 3,440 and 3,540 G of measurements taken in at least three separate experiments was reported. Mannitol, a known ·OH scavenger, at 100 mM significantly decreased the DMPO–OH adduct formation and was used as the active-control agent. Results: Leptin added to aqueous solutions at all concentrations was associated with a statistically significant decrease in EPR signal compared with controls due to its scavenging activity towards the •OH. Conclusions: Leptin could be further investigated as a sentinel biomarker of decreased vascular responsiveness and future risk of atherosclerotic disease in obese OSA patients.
Human acellular dermal matrix for closure of a contaminated gynecologic wound.

Abstract Background. Polypropylene mesh for abdominal wall reconstruction increases the risk of postoperative complications in previously irradiated patients or patients with contaminated operative fields. A novel alternative, acellular dermal matrix, easily incorporates into native tissue when used for fascial reconstruction, forming a strong repair with minimal adhesions and lower infection rates. Case. We describe a patient previously treated with radiation for cervical cancer who presented with a contaminated operative field due to enteral spillage and pelvic infection. Acellular dermal matrix was used as part of a stepwise secondary closure of a large fascial defect in the anterior abdominal wall that was the result of repeated surgical procedures. Conclusion. Use of acellular dermal matrix rather than traditional polypropylene mesh should be considered for patients with contaminated or irradiated operative fields.
Assessing the accuracy of neonatal and postneonatal mortality: A comparison of cause-and period-specific infant mortality rates

This article investigates how well neonatal and postneonatal mortality—two period-specific rates—approximate endogenous and exogenous infant mortality—two cause-specific rates. The period-specific measures are assumed to be equivalent to cause-specific rates and are used interchangeably in the social science literature. We test this assumption, find variances with it, discuss what implications this holds for those studies that have relied on period-specific mortality rates, and suggest directions for future research with cause-specific infant mortality.
The Alliance for Cellular Signaling Plasmid Collection A Flexible Resource for Protein Localization Studies and Signaling Pathway Analysis

Cellular responses to inputs that vary both temporally and spatially are determined by complex relationships between the components of cell signaling networks. Analysis of these relationships requires access to a wide range of experimental reagents and techniques, including the ability to express the protein components of the model cells in a variety of contexts. As part of the Alliance for Cellular Signaling, we developed a robust method for cloning large numbers of signaling ORFs into Gateway® entry vectors, and we created a wide range of compatible expression platforms for proteomics applications. To date, we have generated over 3000 plasmids that are available to the scientific community via the American Type Culture Collection. We have established a website at www.signaling-gateway.org/data/plasmid/ that allows users to browse, search, and blast Alliance for Cellular Signaling plasmids. The collection primarily contains murine signaling ORFs with an emphasis on kinases and G protein signaling genes. Here we describe the cloning, databasing, and application of this proteomics resource for large scale subcellular localization screens in mammalian cell lines.