cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinetics for birefringence changes in thermally coagulated rat skin collagen

Thermal fusion or welding of collagen-rich tissues involves the thermal denaturation of collagen which is reflected by changes in birefringence intensity in histologic sections. The weld bond between two severed edges is formed when the apposed ends of the collagen fibrils unravel during heating then re-entwine during the cooling phase. Thermal coagulation of collagen can be described as an end point of a kinetic rate process of thermal damage which is linear with time of exposure and exponential with temperature. The kinetic rate coefficients, A (s-1) and E (J/mole), have been experimentally determined for birefringence loss in rat skin collagen heated in vitro -- A equals 1.606 X 1045 and E equals 3.06 X 105. Loss in collagen birefringence is a rare quantitative indicator of thermal damage; in this case, the structural alteration in tissue native-form collagen. The kinetic model coefficients were derived from exposure times between 600 and 6000s over the temperature range 45 to 90 degree(s)C. Room temperature control specimens were also analyzed for comparison.
Spatial price equilibrium, distribution center location and successive over-relaxation

A spatial price equilibrium problem is modeled which allows piecewise linear convex flow costs, and a capacity limit on the trade flow between each supply/demand pair of regions. Alternatively, the model determines the locations of intermediate distribution centers in a market economy composed of separate regions, each with approximately linear supply and demand functions. Equilibrium prices, regional supply and demand quantities, and commodity flows are determined endogenously. The model has a quadratic programming formulation which is then reduced by exploiting the structure. The reduced model is particularly well suited to solution using successive over-relaxation.
Picosecond electrical soliton oscillators & THz electronics

Short-duration electrical pulses with picosecond temporal width play important roles in ultrafast time-domain metrology (sampling and time-domain reflectometry). They can be also used as carrier signals in communication and radars. In addition, such short pulses have components in the lower portion of the THz gap, and can be used as a THz generator.
Bone morphogenetic protein-2 induces proinflammatory endothelial phenotype

The transforming growth factor-beta superfamily member bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) is up-regulated in atherosclerotic arteries; however, its effects on the endothelium are not well characterized. Using microdissected coronary arterial endothelial cells (CAECs) and cultured primary CAECs, we demonstrated endothelial mRNA expression of BMP-2 and BMP-4. The proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha and H2O2 significantly increased endothelial expression of BMP-2 but not BMP-4. In organ culture, BMP-2 substantially decreased relaxation of rat carotid arteries to acetylcholine and increased production of reactive oxygen species, events inhibited by pharmacologically blocking protein kinase C (PKC) or NAD(P)H oxidase. BMP-2 activated nuclear factor-kappaB in CAECs, and BMP-2 and BMP-4 substantially increased adhesion of monocytic THP-1 cells, which was reduced by pharmacologically inhibiting p42/44 MAP kinase pathway (also by siRNA down-regulating ERK-1/2) or PKC. Incubation of rat carotid arteries with BMP-2 ex vivo also increased adhesion of mononuclear cells to the endothelium, requiring p42/44 MAP kinase and PKC. Western blotting showed that in CAECs and carotid arteries BMP-2 elicited phosphorylation of p42/44 MAP kinase, which was reduced by blocking MAP kinase kinase and PKC. Collectively, expression of BMP-2 is regulated by proinflammatory stimuli, and increased levels of BMP-2 induce endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and endothelial activation. Thus, the proinflammatory effects of BMP-2 may play a role in vascular pathophysiology.
Exchange of proteins during immunofractionation of chromatin.

Abstract The migration and rearrangement of chromosomal proteins during immunofractionation of chromatin has been investigated. Oligonucleosomes from two different chromatins, chicken erythrocyte or rat liver, were mixed with oligonucleosomes from the other species which had been depleted of histones H 1 H 5 and high mobility group proteins (HMGs). The mixture was treated with buffers of various ionic strengths and immunofractionated on an anti-H1∘/H5 or anti-HMG-17 IgG-Sepharose column. The type of DNA, which was retained as the bound fraction on the column, was determined by slot blot analysis using nick-translated repetitive DNA probes from either chicken or rat. The results indicate that in low ionic strength buffers (i.e., below 40 mM NaCl), there is very little exchange of either histone H5 or HMG-17 among nucleosomes and therefore we suggest that it is possible to fractionate nucleosomes according to their antigenic content.
Brief focal cerebral ischemia that simulates transient ischemic attacks in humans regulates gene expression in rat peripheral blood.

Blood gene expression profiles of very brief (5 and 10 mins) focal ischemia that simulates transient ischemic attacks in humans were compared with ischemic stroke (120 mins focal ischemia), sham, and naive controls. The number of significantly regulated genes after 5 and 10 mins of cerebral ischemia was 39 and 160, respectively (fold change >/=mid R:1.5mid R: and P<0.05). There were 103 genes common to brief focal ischemia and ischemic stroke. Ingenuity pathway analysis showed that genes regulated in the 5 mins group were mainly involved in small molecule biochemistry. Genes regulated in the 10 mins group were involved in cell death, development, growth, and proliferation. Such genes were also regulated in the ischemic stroke group. Genes common to ischemia were involved in the inflammatory response, immune response, and cell death-indicating that these pathways are a feature of focal ischemia, regardless of the duration. These results provide evidence that brief focal ischemia differentially regulates gene expression in the peripheral blood in a manner that could distinguish brief focal ischemia from ischemic stroke and controls in rats. We postulate that this will also occur in humans.
The use of mesh in gynecologic surgery.

The aim of this review was to compare properties of the most commonly used synthetic meshes and describe their use in gynecologic procedures. An Ovid search of the English literature from 1966 to the present was carried out, together with a hand search ofIndex Medicus from 1950 to 1965. Articles involving the use of mesh in surgical procedures or comparative studies of the different mechanical properties of mesh are included. Overviews from urogynecologic texts and surgical texts are also included. All studies in this review consisted of retrospective case series (21 suburethral sling articles, 15 sacrocolpopexy articles, and five pelvic sling articles). No randomized prospective trials were available. Outcome variables, including cure rates and mesh-related complications, are reviewed and compared. Conclusions show that long-term success of the suburethral sling with synthetic mesh ranges from 61% to 100%, and the success rate of the abdominal sacrocolpopexies using mesh ranges from 68% to 100%. Mesh-related complications rates are frequent, with up to a 35% removal rate and 10% sinus tract formation for suburethral slings and 9% erosion rate for sacrocolpopexy. The ideal synthetic mesh material for pelvic surgery, one that induces minimal foreign-body reaction with minimal risk of infection, rejection and erosion, has yet to be developed.
Multimodal detection of affective states: a roadmap through diverse technologies

One important way for systems to adapt to their individual users is related to their ability to show empathy. Being empathetic implies that the computer is able to recognize a user's affective states and understand the implication of those states. Detection of affective states is a step forward to provide machines with the necessary intelligence to appropriately interact with humans. This course provides a description and demonstration of tools and methodologies for automatically detecting affective states with a multimodal approach.
Some Problems with Applying Content Validity Evidence to Assessment Center Procedures

Reviewing Equal Employment Opportunity Commission regulations and judicial opinion, we argue that it is appropriate to use content validity evidence in defense of an employment selection procedure only when current performance is of interest. Because assessment center simulations for first-level supervisors are commonly used to select individuals who will need training and additional experience before they perform adequately, evidence of the job relatedness of such simulations will have to be based on other validation strategies. We suggest some alternative validation strategies in keeping with EEOC guidelines.
Graph theory based parametric influences applied to torsional vibration analysis

A graph-based technique to simulate and analyze parametric influences in torsional systems is presented. The system properties such as polar inertia, torsional stiffness, are represented by a directed graph. The theory of qualitative and quantitative influences is used to develop a technique which predicts the direction of change and accurate estimates of parametric values. Both qualitative and quantitative estimates provide important clues (direction of change and the estimated quantitative change) to vary parametric values. This technique is especially useful for estimating parametric influences on the overall system response and for generating a number of alternate design options. This is complementary to classical methods and conventional finite element method and is validated through examples related to free vibrations of torsional systems. Results presented here show that the estimates obtained using the proposed technique are more accurate compared to those obtained in previous research. Future directions in the context of complex design reasoning systems are also highlighted.
Cellular manufacturing & the concept of total quality

Abstract The purpose of this project is to outline a clear and concise process associated with the development of cellular production systems for the manufacture of shock absorbers. This process will utilize lean manufacturing techniques including: Just-In-Time, product-oriented layouts featuring “U” or “L” shaped configurations and single piece part flow based on the concept of takt time.
On 2-modular representations of the symmetric groups

Abstract Let G = GL n denote the general linear group of invertible n × n matrices with entries in an algebraically closed field F of characteristic 2. We prove the existence of certain composition factors in the restriction to GL n − k × GL k of some polynomial G-modules. As a consequence, we resolve the final case of the problem, addressed by Jantzen and Seitz, of when an irreducible modular representation of the symmetric group S n remains irreducible upon restriction to the Young subgroup S n − k × S k .
A Bayesian Two-Part Latent Class Model for Longitudinal Medical Expenditure Data: Assessing the Impact of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Parity

In 2001, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management required all health plans participating in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program to offer mental health and substance abuse benefits on par with general medical benefits. The initial evaluation found that, on average, parity did not result in either large spending increases or increased service use over the four-year observational period. However, some groups of enrollees may have benefited from parity more than others. To address this question, we propose a Bayesian two-part latent class model to characterize the effect of parity on mental health use and expenditures. Within each class, we fit a two-part random effects model to separately model the probability of mental health or substance abuse use and mean spending trajectories among those having used services. The regression coefficients and random effect covariances vary across classes, thus permitting class-varying correlation structures between the two components of the model. Our analysis identified three classes of subjects: a group of low spenders that tended to be male, had relatively rare use of services, and decreased their spending pattern over time; a group of moderate spenders, primarily female, that had an increase in both use and mean spending after the introduction of parity; and a group of high spenders that tended to have chronic service use and constant spending patterns. By examining the joint 95% highest probability density regions of expected changes in use and spending for each class, we confirmed that parity had an impact only on the moderate spender class.
Extent of hepatic resection does not correlate with toxicity following adjuvant chemotherapy.

Background In patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer, survival can be increased by hepatic resection. Treatment with hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) and systemic chemotherapy following resection may further increase survival and decrease recurrence, but may also result in hepatic and systemic toxicity. This article will address the question of whether large hepatic resections resulting in a greater loss of healthy liver predisposes patients to developing toxicity from the subsequent chemotherapeutic regimens. Design Retrospective analysis of 88 patients who underwent liver resection of colorectal metastases followed by adjuvant HAI and systemic chemotherapy and whose computerized tomography (CT) scans were done at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). Liver volumes were calculated from CT scans and used to determine the percentage change in healthy liver volume between the pre- and post-operative CT scans. Hepatic and systemic toxicities were defined according to the Common Toxicity Criteria of the National Cancer Institute. Results Patients experienced a mean percentage decrease in healthy liver tissue of 17% (range: 57% decrease to 32% increase) at an estimated 1 month after resection and at the initiation of chemotherapy. In a logistic regression model using percentage change in the healthy liver volume as a continuous variable, no significant association was revealed between percentage of healthy liver resected and diarrhea (P = 0.47), leukopenia (P = 0.37), neutropenia (P = 0.31), high bilirubin (P = 0.27), or alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.79). Conclusions A greater loss of healthy liver following resection of hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer does not seem to predispose to the development of toxicity from adjuvant HAI and systemic chemotherapy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:85–90. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Finite-sized gas bubble motion in a blood vessel: non-Newtonian effects.

We have numerically investigated the axisymmetric motion of a finite-sized nearly occluding air bubble through a shear-thinning Casson fluid flowing in blood vessels of circular cross section. The numerical solution entails solving a two-layer fluid model---a cell-free layer and a non-Newtonian core together with the gas bubble. This problem is of interest to the field of rheology and for gas embolism studies in health sciences. The numerical method is based on a modified front-tracking method. The viscosity expression in the Casson model for blood (bulk fluid) includes the hematocrit [the volume fraction of red blood cells (RBCs)] as an explicit parameter. Three different flow Reynolds numbers, ${\mathrm{Re}}_{\mathrm{app}}={\ensuremath{\rho}}_{l}{U}_{\mathrm{max}}d∕{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{\mathrm{app}}$, in the neighborhood of 0.2, 2, and 200 are investigated. Here, ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{l}$ is the density of blood, ${U}_{\mathrm{max}}$ is the centerline velocity of the inlet Casson profile, $d$ is the diameter of the vessel, and ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{\mathrm{app}}$ is the apparent viscosity of whole blood. Three different hematocrits have also been considered: 0.45, 0.4, and 0.335. The vessel sizes considered correspond to small arteries, and small and large arterioles in normal humans. The degree of bubble occlusion is characterized by the ratio of bubble to vessel radius (aspect ratio), $\ensuremath{\lambda}$, in the range $0.9\ensuremath{\leqslant}\ensuremath{\lambda}\ensuremath{\leqslant}1.05$. For arteriolar flow, where relevant, the Fahraeus-Lindqvist effects are taken into account. Both horizontal and vertical vessel geometries have been investigated. Many significant insights are revealed by our study: (i) bubble motion causes large temporal and spatial gradients of shear stress at the ``endothelial cell'' (EC) surface lining the blood vessel wall as the bubble approaches the cell, moves over it, and passes it by; (ii) rapid reversals occur in the sign of the shear stress (+ \ensuremath{\rightarrow} \ensuremath{-} \ensuremath{\rightarrow} +) imparted to the cell surface during bubble motion; (iii) large shear stress gradients together with sign reversals are ascribable to the development of a recirculation vortex at the rear of the bubble; (iv) computed magnitudes of shear stress gradients coupled with their sign reversals may correspond to levels that cause injury to the cell by membrane disruption through impulsive compression and stretching; and (v) for the vessel sizes and flow rates investigated, gravitational effects are negligible.
Operations strategy: A literature review

Abstract Competitive pressures on American business have created the need for improved understanding and practice of operations strategy. Over the past 20 years some 80 articles and several books have been written on the subject. These writings, while diverse in nature and placement, serve to shape what we know about operations strategy and the opportunities for improved practice and meaningful research. This paper examines an underlying argument that exists within the literature that proper strategic positioning or aligning of operations capabilities can significantly impact competitive strength and business performance of an organization. The discussion is organized around four related premises: (1) that there exists a strategic, as opposed to a tactical, view of operations, (2) that there must be some synergistic process of integrating business and operations strategic issues, (3) that there are operations decision or policy areas which demonstrate strategic opportunities, and (4) that conceptual structures exist by which to target and focus operations strategy. The paper concludes that the literature and emerging research support each of these premises to varying degrees. The authors believe that further understanding of these premises could be benefited by more careful and consistent definition of operations strategy concepts and terminology, by more attention being placed on the content and process of operations strategy, by more empirical study, and finally by more emphasis being placed on service operations strategy.
The role of iron in Libby amphibole-induced acute lung injury and inflammation

Complexation of host iron (Fe) on the surface of inhaled asbestos fibers has been postulated to cause oxidative stress contributing to in vivo pulmonary injury and inflammation. We examined the role of Fe in Libby amphibole (LA; mean length 4.99 µm ± 4.53 and width 0.28 µm ± 0.19) asbestos-induced inflammogenic effects in vitro and in vivo. LA contained acid-leachable Fe and silicon. In a cell-free media containing FeCl(3), LA bound #17 µg of Fe/mg of fiber and increased reactive oxygen species generation #3.5 fold, which was reduced by deferoxamine (DEF) treatment. In BEAS-2B cells exposure to LA, LA loaded with Fe (FeLA), or LA with DEF did not increase HO-1 or ferritin mRNA expression. LA increased IL-8 expression, which was reduced by Fe loading but increased by DEF. To determine the role of Fe in LA-induced lung injury in vivo, spontaneously hypertensive rats were exposed intratracheally to either saline (300 µL), DEF (1 mg), FeCl(3) (21 µg), LA (0.5 mg), FeLA (0.5 mg), or LA + DEF (0.5 mg). LA caused BALF neutrophils to increase 24 h post-exposure. Loading of Fe on LA but not chelation slightly decreased neutrophilic influx (LA + DEF > LA > FeLA). At 4 h post-exposure, LA-induced lung expression of MIP-2 was reduced in rats exposed to FeLA but increased by LA + DEF (LA + DEF > LA > FeLA). Ferritin mRNA was elevated in rats exposed to FeLA compared to LA. In conclusion, the acute inflammatory response to respirable fibers and particles may be inhibited in the presence of surface-complexed or cellular bioavailable Fe. Cell and tissue Fe-overload conditions may influence the pulmonary injury and inflammation caused by fibers.
Expectations of and Attitudes toward Counseling: A Comparison of Asian International and U.S. Graduate Students

This study examined Asian international graduate students’ expectations of and attitudes toward counseling by using U.S. graduate students as a comparative reference group. Survey data from 189 Asian international and 186 U.S. students were subject to analyses. Results indicated that Asian international students, in comparison with U.S. students, indicated less exposure to counseling, less self-perceived need for counseling, greater discomfort/shame with counseling, less openness to counseling, a greater preference for a directive style, and a greater preference for a flexible counseling format. Language and cultural concerns were barriers to seeking counseling. Implications for culturally responsive services were discussed.
From "Traditional" to "Mass Fashion System" Dress Among Men in a Turkish Village

The dress forms for men of Comlekci, a village in southwestern Turkey, have been changing throughout the twentieth century, and occur in three stages. Following the Turkish republican revolution after World War 1, the European-style suit was widely adopted by rural men. Although adoption of these garments seemed to signal westernization and secularization of rural society, the dress forms were appropriated by the traditional culture and became readily identifiable as traditional village dress. This mode of dress was retained with little change until the second transitional stage began in the 1960s. This change was a result of improved communications, increased interaction with the money economy, and increased availability of consumer goods. These economic changes permitted the introduction of commercially produced clothing, with the final stage of full conversion to a mass fashion system of dress for the men of Comlekci occurring by the 1990s.
Interruption of a transforming growth factor α autocrine loop in Caco-2 cells by antisense oligodeoxynucleotides☆

Abstract Background & Aims: We have previously shown that Caco-2 cell proliferation is driven by basolateral membrane epidermal growth factor receptors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether autocrine production of transforming growth factor α (TGF-α) activates these receptors and stimulates proliferation using antisense oligodeoxynucleotides. Methods: Caco-2 cells grown on microporous membranes or Jurkat cells were exposed to conventional or 5′ cholesterol-modified oligodeoxynucleotides synthesized with random, antisense, or missense base sequences. Indices of proliferation were measured, including [ 3 H]thymidine or [ 3 H]uridine uptake for studies of short-term stimulation and the methylthiotetrazole assay as an index of cell number increase over longer periods. Secretion of TGF-α by cells was detected using a soft agar bioassay. Results: Incubation with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides inhibited TGF-α secretion compared with controls. Random and missense oligodeoxynucleotides had no effect on proliferation. The TGF-α antisense oligodeoxynucleotides markedly inhibited proliferation, an effect that was abolished by adding TGF-α to the medium. Oligonucleotides had no effect on Jurkat cells, a lymphocytic cell line lacking epidermal growth factor receptors. Cholesterol-modified oligodeoxynucleotides were more effective and specific than unmodified oligodeoxynucleotides. Conclusions: Caco-2 cell proliferation is driven by autocrine stimulation of epidermal growth factor receptors by TGF-α. This mechanism may be effectively inhibited by antisense oligodeoxynucleotides, particularly those modified by the 5′ attachment of cholesterol.
Message from panel chairs

COMSNETS has a long tradition of excellent and well-attended panel discussions from leaders in the industry and academia. This year, we continue this tradition with three thought-provoking panels on a broad range of topics. We hope that these panels, each of which will be held on a different day of the main conference program, will be interesting to the attendees.
Lipoprotein-hyaluronate associations in human aorta fibrous plaque lesions.

Abstract Lipoproteins and glycosaminoglycans were isolated from human aorta fibrous plaque lesions by isotonic saline extraction and treatment with elastase. Hydrolysis by elastase, using suitable inhibitors of nonspecific proteases, yielded about twice the amount of cholesterol and four times more GAG than saline extraction. Bio-Gel A-50m column chormatography of elastase-solubilized materials gave a fraction which contained lipoproteins of 1.006 and 1.063 floating densities and hyaluronic acid. Immunologically the lipoproteins resembled serum apoB-containing lipoproteins. Two species of hyaluronates with estimated molecular weights of 400,000 and 75,000 were observed. In addition to hyaluronate, elastase solubilized other GAG which were not associated with lipoproteins. Association of hyaluronate as the only GAG in the elastase-solubilized lipoprotein fraction emphasizes the important role that hyaluronate may play in the aggregation or entrapment of macromolecules such as lipoproteins in the arterial connective tissue matrix.
Improved lower bounds for the link length of rectilinear spanning paths in grids

We give improved lower bounds on the link length of spanning paths in a d-dimensional grid of size n. Kranakis et al. conjectured that the optimal link length is (1 + 1(d − 1))nd − 1, but gave lower bounds not substantially larger than nd − 1; we give a lower bound of (1 + 1(2d))nd − 1 for all d > 2.
Differences in basal levels of CREB and NPY in nucleus accumbens regions between C57BL/6 and DBA/2 mice differing in inborn alcohol drinking behavior.

An increasing body of evidence suggests that genetic factors play a role in alcohol drinking behaviors. C57BL/6J (C57) mice innately consume larger amounts of alcohol compared to that consumed by DBA/2J (DBA) mice. Furthermore, alterations in cAMP-responsive element binding (CREB) protein function in the brain have been implicated in alcohol drinking behaviors. The present investigation examined innate expression and phosphorylation of CREB in various brain structures of C57 and DBA mice. It was found that CREB expression and phosphorylation was lower, specifically in the shell structure of the nucleus accumbens, in C57 mice compared to that in DBA mice. CREB expression and phosphorylation were similar in other brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens core and the cortical, amygdaloid, hippocampal, and striatal structures of C57 and DBA mice. The expression of a cAMP-inducible gene, neuropeptide Y (NPY), was also investigated in the nucleus accumbens region of C57 and DBA mice. It was found that in C57 mice, NPY protein levels were lower in the shell but not in the core structure of the nucleus accumbens compared to that in DBA mice. It was also found that C57 mice are not innately anxious, but they consume larger amounts of alcohol than do DBA mice. Because the shell structure of the nucleus accumbens has been implicated in reward mechanisms of alcohol, it is possible that lower CREB function in this brain structure may be in part associated with the excessive alcohol drinking behavior of C57 mice. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Generalized integral transforms and convolution products on function space

In this paper, we use a Gaussian process to define a generalized integral transform (GIT) and a generalized convolution product (GCP) of functionals defined on a function space. We establish the existence and some properties for the GIT, the GCP and the inverse integral transform. Finally, we prove a Fubini theorem for the GIT and the GCP.
Verification of Calculated Skin Doses in Postmastectomy Helical Tomotherapy

Purpose To verify the accuracy of calculated skin doses in helical tomotherapy for postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). Methods and Materials In vivo thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were used to measure the skin dose at multiple points in each of 14 patients throughout the course of treatment on a TomoTherapy Hi·Art II system, for a total of 420 TLD measurements. Five patients were evaluated near the location of the mastectomy scar, whereas 9 patients were evaluated throughout the treatment volume. The measured dose at each location was compared with calculations from the treatment planning system. Results The mean difference and standard error of the mean difference between measurement and calculation for the scar measurements was −1.8% ± 0.2% (standard deviation [SD], 4.3%; range, −11.1% to 10.6%). The mean difference and standard error of the mean difference between measurement and calculation for measurements throughout the treatment volume was −3.0% ± 0.4% (SD, 4.7%; range, −18.4% to 12.6%). The mean difference and standard error of the mean difference between measurement and calculation for all measurements was −2.1% ± 0.2% (standard deviation, 4.5%: range, −18.4% to 12.6%). The mean difference between measured and calculated TLD doses was statistically significant at two standard deviations of the mean, but was not clinically significant (i.e., was Conclusions The mean of the measured TLD doses agreed with TomoTherapy calculated TLD doses within our clinical criterion of 5%.
Excision of Malignant Melanoma Overlying a Pacemaker

Background With the increasing number of patients with implantable cardiac devices, dermatologic surgeons must be increasingly familiar with the types of devices and potential interference by surgical procedures. Observations We report the excision of a 1 cm malignant melanoma in situ occurring on the skin directly overlying the patient's pacemaker. Conclusions Successful excision of malignant lesions in the setting of implantable cardiac devices requires an understanding of pacemaker implantation anatomy following well-established guidelines for electrosurgery in the setting of implantable cardiac devices and careful coordination with cardiac and anesthesia specialists. ANNE M. CHAPAS, MD, DENNIS LEE, MD, AND GARY S. ROGERS, MD, HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS.
Autopilot: adaptive control of distributed applications

With increasing development of applications for heterogeneous, distributed computing grids, the focus of performance analysis has shifted from a posteriori optimization on homogeneous parallel systems to application tuning for heterogeneous resources with time varying availability. This shift has profound implications for performance instrumentation and analysis techniques. Autopilot is a new infrastructure for dynamic performance tuning of heterogeneous computational grids based on closed loop control. The paper describes the Autopilot model of distributed sensors, actuators, and decision procedures, reports preliminary performance benchmarks, and presents a case study in which the Autopilot library is utilized in the development of an adaptive parallel input/output system.
Genetic search for Golomb arrays

Genetic search with a decision level chromosome is used to search efficiently for Golomb (1982) arrays. A Golomb array A is a binary array with three values for its discrete autocorrelation function; M, the number of ones in A for no offset, 1 when there is partial overlap, and 0 otherwise. In one dimension, A is known as a Golomb ruler. The method yields improvement because the genetic search considers only feasible solutions in the most likely portion of the search space. Each chromosome bit represents a decision to place a one in an iterative construction. The representation includes all possible arrays. Since the chromosome bits represent binary decisions in the search space, genetic operations (such as crossover and mutation) always result in feasible descendent chromosomes. Experimental results include comparison to previously known search methods and several new arrays. These results indicate that the proposed search is significantly more efficient than prior methods.
HYDROFOIL DESIGN AND OPTIMIZATION FOR FAST SHIPS

The paper presents a multi-discipli nary design/optimization method for the conceptual design of a hydrofoil based fast ship. The method is used to determine the maximum achievable lift-to-drag ratio (L/D) of an isolated foil-strut arrangement (hopefully greater than 50) at high transit speeds (greater than 75 knots) while lifting masses of 5,000 and 10,000 tons. First, the tools necessary for the study are presented. They comprise a panel method to compute threedimensional flows around arbitrary configurations with a model for the free surface, a foil cross-section optimization tool, a strut crosssection design tool, and a structural analysis tool. The computational tools are then integrated into a multi-disciplinary design/optimization approach, which is applied to the design of single foil and biplane configurations. Results show that the goal of L/D = 50 is achievable for 75 knots (assuming that techniques can be developed for reducing the skin friction drag to a quarter of its nominal value) and, that for 90 knots, L/D ratios around 45 can be reached. The corresponding break horsepower requirements for 10,000 tons are around 130 khp and less than 200 khp, respectively.
Tempo and mode of early animal evolution: inferences from rocks, Hox, and molecular clocks

One of the enduring puzzles to Stephen Jay Gould about life on Earth was the cause or causes of the fantastic diversity of animals that exploded in the fossil record starting around 530 Ma—the Cambrian explosion. In this contribution, we first review recent phylogenetic and molec- ular clock studies that estimate dates for high-level metazoan diversifications, in particular the or- igin of the major lineages of the bilaterally-symmetrical animals (Bilateria) including cnidarians. We next review possible ''internal'' triggers for the Cambrian explosion, and argue that pattern formation, those processes that delay the specification of cells and thereby allow for growth, was one major innovation that allowed for the evolution of distinct macroscopic body plans by the end of the Precambrian. Of potential ''external'' triggers there is no lack of candidates, including snow- ball earth episodes and a general increase in the oxygenation state of the world's oceans; the former could affect animal evolution by a mass extinction followed by ecological recovery, whereas the latter could affect the evolution of benthic animals through the transfer of reduced carbon from the pelagos to the benthos via fecal pellets. We argue that the most likely cause of the Cambrian ex- plosion was the evolution of macrophagy, which resulted in the evolution of larger body sizes and eventually skeletons in response to increased benthic predation pressures. Benthic predation pres- sures also resulted in the evolution of mesozooplankton, which irrevocably linked the pelagos with the benthos, effectively establishing the Phanerozoic ocean. Hence, we suggest that the Cambrian explosion was the inevitable outcome of the evolution of macrophagy near the end of the Marinoan glacial interval.
Student Numbers and Sustaining Courses and Fields in Ph.D. Programs

Many agricultural economics departments are concerned about the vitality of their PI1.D. programs. A particular problem is insufticient st~ldent numbers to justify teaching certain courses or fields. As a consequence, much faculty time can be spent debating alternative progratn structures without any real idea of the likelihood that a proposed program structure will succeed. This article presents a framework for deriving sorlle analytical and empirical results for alternative Ph.D. program structures. A downloadable program is used to generate some representative results that will hopefully help others minimi~e speculations and time spent in committee or departmental meetings.
Documented traditional cardiovascular risk factors and mortality in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Background Although documented traditional cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and dyslipidemia) increase the risk of developing coronary artery disease, their influence on the treatments and outcomes of patients with non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) has not been fully elucidated. Methods Using data from the CRUSADE Quality Improvement Initiative, we sought to characterize the effect that the absence of documented traditional risk factors has on inhospital treatments and outcomes in a population of patients with NSTEMI treated in routine practice. We compared clinical characteristics and inhospital outcomes according to the presence and number of risk factors in 74 220 patients with NSTEMI (defined as creatine kinase–MB and/or troponin I/T values above the local upper limit of normal) treated in 476 US hospitals from January 2001 through March 2004. Results The 7755 (10.5%) patients with no documented traditional risk factors on admission were less likely to receive short-term guideline-recommended therapies and revascularization procedures. Despite a higher prevalence of normal left ventricular function and insignificant angiographic coronary artery disease, these patients had a slightly higher risk of adjusted inhospital mortality (odds ratio 1.15, 95% CI 1.03-1.29) compared with patients with any combination of risk factors. Conclusions Patients without documented traditional cardiovascular risk factors represent 10.5% of the non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction population. Because the absence of documented traditional risk factors does not yield a favorable prognosis, further study is needed to delineate the effects of the interplay between novel and documented traditional risk factors and treatment differences on the outcomes of these patients.
Investigation of the carrier dynamics of strain compensated InGaAsN quantum wells

A quantum dot-like behavior in the dynamics of carrier recombination is observed in InGaAsN quantum wells at temperatures at and below /spl sim/ 150 K. At higher temperatures defect recombination plays a dominant role.
A Spitzer* Infrared Radius for the Transiting Extrasolar Planet HD 209458b

We have measured the infrared transit of the extrasolar planet HD 209458 b using the Spitzer Space Telescope. We observed two primary eclipse events (one partial and one complete transit) using the 24 micrometer array of the Multiband Imaging Photometer for Spitzer (MIPS). We analyzed a total of 2392 individual images (10-second integrations) of the planetary system, recorded before, during, and after transit. We perform optimal photometry on the images and use the local zodiacal light as a short-term flux reference. At this long wavelength, the transit curve has a simple box-like shape, allowing robust solutions for the stellar and planetary radii independent of stellar limb darkening, which is negligible at 24 micrometers. We derive a stellar radius of R(sub *) = 1.06 plus or minus 0.07 solar radius, a planetary radius of R(sub p) = 1.26 plus or minus 0.08 R(sub J), and a stellar mass of 1.17 solar mass. Within the errors, our results agree with the measurements at visible wavelengths. The 24 micrometer radius of the planet therefore does not differ significantly compared to the visible result. We point out the potential for deriving extrasolar transiting planet radii to high accuracy using transit photometry at slightly shorter IR wavelengths where greater photometric precision is possible.
Highly efficient, charge balanced blue phosphorescent OLEDs employing wide band gap host with p-i-n architecture

In this study we report the use of a wide band gap host host p-bis (triphenylsilyly) benzene (UGH2) for Iridium (III) bis [(4, 6-difluorophenyl)-pyridinato-N, C2'] picolinate (FIrpic) based devices. The wide band gap host serves to confine the charge carriers in the emitting layer. Also the high triplet energy of the host efficiently confines all the excitons on the dopant molecules. A systematic effort is made to enhance the performance of blue phosphorescent organic light emitting diodes using the UGH2 host. The device performance of the intrinsic device was further enhanced by incorporation of a p-i-n architecture to tune the charge balance in the device.
Critical Care Echocardiography: Acute Left Ventricular and Valvular Dysfunction

A rapid bedside critical care echocardiography (CCE) exam performed by an intensivist can provide an accurate dynamic assessment of left ventricular (LV) and valvular function and accordingly help direct resuscitative efforts. Basic CCE is goal oriented and uses five basic views (parasternal long and short axis, apical four-chamber, subxiphoid, and inferior vena cava views). The focus with basic CCE is to identify major, catastrophic causes of left ventricular failure or valve dysfunction that would affect the hemodynamic status of the critically ill patient. Advanced CCE, on the other hand, requires a comprehensive evaluation of hemodynamic parameters, mastery over image acquisition, and complete understanding of Doppler evaluation. The global visual assessment is the most common method used to estimate LV systolic function. LV systolic function can be categorized as normal, hyperdynamic, moderate dysfunction, or severe dysfunction. The estimation of stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO) by echocardiography can also be a useful method for the assessment of LV systolic function in the critically ill patient. Valve function can be assessed using 2D echocardiography and color Doppler. Although goal-directed echocardiography can be invaluable in the care of critically ill patients, it is also paramount to recognize common pitfalls of CCE that can lead to flawed interpretations. With proper training and competence, intensivists can incorporate the findings from CCE into bedside clinical management strategies.
Informix under CONTROL: Online Query Processing

The goal of the CONTROL project at Berkeley is to develop systems for interactive analysis of large data sets. We focus on systems that provide users with iteratively refining answers to requests and online control of processing, thereby tightening the loop in the data analysis process. This paper presents the database-centric subproject of CONTROL: a complete i>online query processing facility, implemented in a commercial Object-Relational DBMS from Informix. We describe the algorithms at the core of the system, and detail the end-to-end issues required to bring the algorithms together and deliver a complete system.
A Lightweight, Inexpensive Benthic Core Sampler for Use in Shallow Water

ABSTRACT The design of a lightweight, inexpensive sediment corer is described. The device has been used successfully to sample attached algae from sand, peat, and mud substrata in water depths up to 4 m. With this device, the sediment-water interface can be visualized in the core. Fabrication requires no special skills and involves materials that are readily available at most hardware stores. Comparisons of chlorophyll a samples collected with this corer vs. a commercially available piston corer at two sites revealed no significant differences in chlorophyll a concentration when using the described sediment corer.
Effect of Temperature and Salinity on Growth Performance in Anadromous (Chesapeake Bay) and Nonanadromous (Santee-Cooper) Strains of Striped Bass Morone saxatilis

Abstract During the first year of life of Striped Bass Morone saxatilis, the effect of estuarine habitat use on growth rate is poorly understood. In a split-plot experiment, growth and feeding rates were compared between anadromous (Chesapeake Bay) and nonanadromous (Santee-Cooper) broods of juvenile striped bass (45–90 days posthatch) exposed to a range of salinity levels (0.5, 7, and 15 ppt) and temperatures (20, 24, and 28 C). At 28 C, which best simulated the summertime conditions of young juveniles, Chesapeake Bay fish showed highest growth performance. For this temperature and strain, growth was approximately 40% higher at 7 ppt than at 0.5 or 15 ppt. Santee-Cooper juveniles showed no response to salinity. Over combined temperature and salinity levels, Chesapeake Bay juveniles experienced 22% higher growth rates than did Santee-Cooper juveniles, supporting a proposal that early growth rates are inversely related to latitude. Because salinity had a strong effect on Chesapeake Bay striped bass growth ...
More Bang for Your Design Protection Money: A Report on the Hague Agreement Third Meeting of Experts

The Hague Agreement Concerning the International Deposit of Industrial Designs (Hague Agreement) offers a cost effective way to obtain international design protection, but it has certain provisions that have prevented adherence by the U.S. to any of its versions. It was my privilege to represent the American Bar Association, Section of Patent, Trademark and Copyright Law (ABA) at the third meeting of experts on the development of a revised text for the Hague Agreement (Draft Act). This meeting was held at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland, on April 26 to 30, 1993.In addition to serving as a report on the third meeting, this article should serve as a working document to help prepare for the next meeting of experts. Another feature of this report is a detailed review of the protection cost under the Draft Act. It is very important that design owners and practitioners understand the tremendous opportunity for relatively low cost international design protection provided by the Hague Agreement. It is this greater “bang” for your design protection the money that attracts a lot of U.S. interest in the Hague Agreement revision.Third meeting highlights are presented in section II, followed by a brief description, in section III, of the proposed system including a helpful diagram. The topics on which agreement has been reached, in principle, are listed in section IV. Major issues needing further discussion are reviewed in section V. Fees for typical protection situations are discussed in section VI. The report conclusion, section VII, summarizes the steps needed to complete successfully the Draft Act.The primary document for the third meeting was the WIPO Draft Act containing the proposed articles and explanatory notes. All citations in this report will be to that document, unless otherwise stated. WIPO prepared a report on the meeting that is quite useful. The accomplishments of the second meeting of experts, held in 1992, are reviewed in my recent article that is a very helpful source of background information.
Modeling O-Star X-Ray Emission-Line Profiles: Fitting a Parameterized, Spherically-Symmetric Wind Model to Chandra Spectra

X-ray emission from hot (0and B-type) stars is a long-standing astrophysical puzzle. High-resolution x-ray spectroscopy of hot stars resolves emission line profile shapes, offering direct insight into the dynamics and spatial distribution of the x-ray-emitting plasma. The 0 supergiant ( Puppis shows broad, blueshifted, and asymmetric line profiles, generally consistent with the wind-shock picture of OB star X-ray production. Here, for the first time, this is demonstrated quantitatively by fitting a spherically-symmetric phenomenological wind model to a Chandra spectrum of ( Puppis. The results of the fits to eight lines are presented here. Statistically good fits to seven of the lines are achieved, with extracted parameters providing constraints on the amount of absorption in the wind and the minimum radius of x-ray emission. The results indicate that a modest amount of wind attenuation is required, which is inconsistent with previous theoretical calculations of continuum optical depths . The implications of these results are discussed in light of other recent observational and theoretical work.