cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Model Experiments in Red Cell Rheology: The Mammalian Red Cell as a Fluid Drop

The rheology of the individual erythrocyte has recently received increased attention in the fields of rheology (1,2,3), microcirculation (4,5) as well as in the field of hematology (e.g. 6,7). Traditional concepts regarding the red cell as a flexible disc have shown to be inadequate to explain many of the observed flow phenomena.
Long-term pelvic organ prolapse recurrence and mesh exposure following sacrocolpopexy

Large, long-term studies are needed to compare pelvic organ prolapse (POP) recurrence and mesh exposure following all modes of sacrocolpopexy (open, robotic, and laparoscopic). We hypothesized that the prevalence of recurrent POP and mesh exposure does not differ between modes of sacrocolpopexy. This is a retrospective cohort study with a cross-sectional, prospective survey. Participants were surveyed regarding complications, retreatments, and symptoms following sacrocolpopexy. Baseline characteristics, POP recurrence, mesh exposure, and survey responses were compared. A total of 709 participants met the criteria. Median time from sacrocolpopexy to last follow-up for all participants was 0.5 years (2 days to 13.4 years). 15.0% experienced recurrent stage 2 or greater POP or underwent retreatment (open 11.7% [95% CI 7.8–17.2%]; robotic 21.1% [95% CI 15.6–27.9%]; laparoscopic 13.8% [95% CI 10.6–17.9%]; p = 0.03). After adjusting for baseline differences there was no significant difference among groups (p = 0.30). 5.3% experienced mesh and/or suture exposure (mesh n = 19, suture n = 10, mesh and suture n = 8) with no significant difference among groups (open 7.7% [95% CI 4.6–12.5%]; robotic 3.6% [95% CI 1.7–7.6%]; laparoscopic 4.9% [95% CI 3.1–7.7%]; p = 0.20). Median time from sacrocolpopexy to survey completion was 6.5 (1.6–13.4) years. 9.2% reported evaluation or treatment for recurrent POP (open 6.3% [95% CI 2.1–16.8%]; robotic 12.5% [95% CI 6.9–21.5%]; laparoscopic 8.5% [5.1–13.8%]; p = 0.44). 6.9% reported evaluation or treatment for mesh exposure (open 6.0% [95% CI 2.1–16.2%]; robotic 3.9% [95% CI 1.3–10.7%]; laparoscopic 8.6% [5.2–13.9%]; p = 0.38). Objective and patient-reported long-term prevalence of POP recurrence and mesh exposure are low following all modes of sacrocolpopexy.
Enhanced Productivity With Lockout/Tagout Alternatives: Exploring Alternative Protective Measures

Unquestionably, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) saves lives in all manufacturing and processing segments, but it can also be a drain on productivity. Additionally, some types of diagnostic and setup work require active power sources, which can lead to workers bypassing LOTO procedures. LOTO alternative protective measures (APMs) that are compliant with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA's) minor servicing exception (MSE) present an opportunity to enhance productivity and help reduce the incentive for workers attempting to bypass critical safety procedures. This article explores the use of LOTO APMs, how they can improve productivity, their safety and financial benefits, and the appropriate locations for their use.
Midlife falls are associated with increased risk of mortality in women: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III.

Abstract Objectives Falls are a public health concern for older adults but are also common among midlife adults. However, the consequences of falls occurring during midlife are not well understood. Methods This investigation assessed the relationship between falls and mortality among midlife adults using survey data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 1,295), linked to the National Death Index. The relationship between recurrent falls (≥2 falls) in the past year and 10-year death rate was assessed using survey-weighted Cox regression. Results Nearly 20 % of adults who died within 10 years of their interview date were recurrent fallers at the time of interview. For women only, recurrent fallers had more than 4-fold increased hazard of death within 10 years compared to non-recurrent fallers (HR = 4.41; 95 % CI:2.24,8.68). Conclusions Findings suggest that midlife women are particularly vulnerable to adverse outcomes following recurrent falls. Fall prevention efforts should include efforts targeted at midlife women.
Effect of relative humidity on the reaction kinetics in rubidium silver iodide based all-solid-state battery

Abstract Our previous study on a rechargeable rubidium silver iodide (RbAg4I5) based all-solid-state battery showed an exponential increase of the performance with increasing relative humidity (RH). Here, we investigated the effect of humidity on the electrochemical reaction kinetics at the Ag/RbAg4I5 anode and graphite/RbAg4I5 cathode using three-electrode cells. Four-electrode electrochemical impedance (EIS) measurements were conducted to evaluate the ionic conductivity of the solid electrolyte. The results unveiled that the ionic conductivity varied 4% between 35% and 100% RH in consistence with the variation of series cell resistances of the half cells. On the other hand, linear sweep voltammetry measurements of the anode and cathode half cells showed that increasing the RH from 35% to 100% increased the exchange current density by three orders of magnitude. The relationship between the water vapor adsorption and reaction kinetics was established by introducing water vapor adsorption isotherms. A proportionality was observed between the exchange current density and the number of water layers adsorbed at the electrolyte/electrode interface and a model was proposed to explain the impact of water adsorption on the electrochemical kinetics. These results suggest that the all-solid-state battery operates effectively when exposed to a high humidity environment and can be used for the applications requiring high reliability.
Role of Early Drying Cracks in the Shrinkage Size Effect of Cement Paste

AbstractStandardized shrinkage models for concrete incorporate a function which depends on the ratio of volume to sample surface. These empirically calibrated functions are rationalized based on no...
Coinfection of Streptococcus pneumoniae reduces airborne transmission of influenza virus

Abstract Secondary bacterial infection, especially with Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn), is a common complication in fatal and ICU cases of influenza virus infection. During the H1N1 pandemic of 2009 (H1N1pdm09), there was higher mortality in healthy young adults due to secondary bacterial pneumonia, with Spn being the most frequent bacterial species. Previous studies in mice and ferrets have suggested a synergistic relationship between Spn and influenza viruses. In this study, we used the ferret model to study whether airborne transmission of H1N1pdm09 was influenced by coinfection with two Spn serotypes: type 2 (D39) and type 19F (BHN97). We found that coinfected animals experienced more severe clinical symptoms as well as increased bacterial colonization of the upper respiratory tract. In contrast, we observed that coinfection resulted in reduced airborne transmission of influenza virus. Only 1/3 animals coinfected with D39 transmitted H1N1pdm09 virus to a naive recipient compared to 3/3 transmission efficiency in animals infected with influenza virus alone. A similar trend was seen in coinfection with BHN97, suggesting that coinfection with Spn reduces influenza virus airborne transmission. The decrease in transmission does not appear to be caused by decreased stability of H1N1pdm09 in expelled droplets in the presence of Spn. Rather, coinfection resulted in decreased viral shedding in the ferret upper respiratory tract. Thus, we conclude that coinfection enhances colonization and airborne transmission of Spn but decreases replication and transmission of H1N1pdm09. Our data points to an asymmetrical relationship between these two pathogens rather than a synergistic one. Significance Airborne transmission of respiratory viruses is influenced by many host and environmental parameters. The complex interplay between bacterial and viral coinfections on transmission of respiratory viruses has been understudied. We demonstrate that coinfection with Streptococcus pneumoniae reduces airborne transmission of influenza A viruses by decreasing viral titers in the upper respiratory tract. Instead of implicating a synergistic relationship between bacteria and virus, our work demonstrates an asymmetric relationship where bacteria benefit from the virus but where the fitness of influenza A viruses is negatively impacted by coinfection. The implications of exploring how microbial communities can influence the fitness of pathogenic organisms is a novel avenue for transmission control of pandemic respiratory viruses.
COVID-19 Crisis, Bankruptcy Risk, and Transition Dynamics

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many firms to the edge of bankruptcy and revived concerns of a prolonged/deep recession. The government has introduced various policies to mitigate its economic impact. We build a continuous time heterogeneous agent model to study (i) corporate bankruptcy risks, and (ii) the transition dynamics of the economy. This general framework is applied for understanding the implications of the COVID-19 economic crisis. The higher the bankruptcy rate, the faster the transition towards the new long run steady state. Transition speed decreases as the mass of firms in the upper tail of the net worth distribution increases. While broad fiscal policies are relatively more effective in reducing bankruptcy risks, monetary policies of providing market liquidity are more effective in generating faster transition dynamics.
Kathryn Anderson, grand dame of developmental biology

One of the most inspirational scientists we have ever known found her own inspiration in the pages of Life magazine. In a 2016 interview with one of us, Kathryn Anderson (1952–2020) mentioned that “in eighth grade, an article caught my eye about human development with a really beautiful picture of a human fetus. That really captured my imagination” (1). Her imaginative mind was thenceforth hooked, and the body of work on embryonic development and patterning that resulted over the next five decades was simply outstanding and represents contemporary biology at its finest. Kathryn spent decades discovering the genes and proteins that interact during embryonic development to control embryonic patterning in both Drosophila and mice. Her work with genetic screening led to seminal discoveries, including genes controlling the body plan of the Drosophila embryo, the immune response in fruit flies and mammals, and the early development of mammalian embryos. But beyond her sophisticated science lay a woman inspired: Inspired to be a leader, a confident mentor, and a steady hand in the careers of so many trainees and fellow faculty colleagues. Dr. Kathryn Anderson in her laboratory. Image credit: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Kathryn used elegant unbiased genetic screening and mutant/transgenic analysis to attack and solve important questions in developmental genetics. Her work established that the early Drosophila embryo’s development is largely under the control of maternally provided products, with a switchover to largely zygotic control after … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence may be addressed. Email: neillu{at}mskcc.org. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Translating Analytical Techniques in Geochemistry to Environmental Health

From human health exposure related to environmental contamination to ancient deep-Earth processes related to differentiation of the Earth’s geochemical reservoirs, the adaptability of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has proven to be an indispensable standard technique that transcends disciplines. Continued advancements in ICP-MS, including improved auxiliary applications such as laser ablation (LA), ion/liquid chromatography (IC), automated pre-concentration systems (e.g., seaFAST), and improved desolvating nebulizer systems (e.g., Aridus and Apex) have revolutionized our ability to analyze almost any sample matrix with remarkable precision at exceedingly low elemental abundances. The versatility in ICP-MS applications allows for effective interdisciplinary crossover, opening a world of analytical possibilities. In this communication, we discuss the adaptability of geochemical techniques, including sample preparation and analysis, to environmental and biological systems, using Pb isotopes for source apportionment as a primary example.
Computed Tomography Angiography for Aero-digestive Injuries in Penetrating Neck Trauma; A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES Management of hemodynamically stable patients with penetrating neck trauma (PNT) has evolved in recent years with improvements in imaging technology. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) encompassing all zones of the neck has become part of the standard diagnostic algorithm for PNT patients who do not require immediate surgical intervention for vascular or aerodigestive injuries (ADI). Several studies have demonstrated favorable operating characteristics for CTA at excluding arterial injuries; however, consensus as to CTA's ability to detect ADI is lacking. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO registration number CRD42019133509) to answer the question Is CTA sufficient to rule out ADI in hemodynamically stable PNT patients without hard signs? METHODS Investigators independently searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science from their inception to August 2020 for the search terms "penetrating neck injuries" and "CT scan." To be included, studies required sufficient data to construct a 2×2 table of CTA for ADI. The operating characteristics of CTA for detecting ADIs are reported as sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios (LRs), with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Bias in our studies was quantified by QUADAS-2. RESULTS Our search identified 1,242 citations with seven studies with moderate to high risk of bias meeting our inclusion/exclusion criteria and encompassing 877 subjects with an ADI prevalence of 13.4%. CTA for ADI had sensitivity of 92% (95% CI = 85% to 97%), specificity of 88% (95% CI = 85% to 90%), positive likelihood ratio of 12.2 (95% CI = 4.6 to 32), and negative LR of 0.14 (95% CI = 0.05 to 0.37). Of the 26 identified esophageal injuries across our studies that were diagnosed by either swallow studies or surgical exploration, five (19%, 95% CI = 8.1% to 38.3%) were initially missed by CTA. CONCLUSION CTA alone is not sufficient to exclude esophageal injuries in PNT. Because delayed diagnosis is associated with increased morbidity, additional diagnostic interventions should be undertaken if there is remaining concern for esophageal injury.
Evaluation of postoperative outcomes in patients following multi-level surgical reconstructions with the use Avive™ soft tissue membrane on nerve after traumatic injury of the upper extremity and lower extremity:

Background:Treatment of patients with traumatic axonotmesis presents challenges. Processed human umbilical cord membrane has been recently developed with improved handling and resorption time compa...
Safety Impact of Connected Vehicles on Driver Behavior in Rural Work Zones under Foggy Weather Conditions

Work zone safety is one of the paramount goals of the safety community. Safety in WZs is a particular concern under foggy conditions as they represent an exogenous factor contributing to high varia...
Multi-parametric MRI of the Proximal and Distal Nerves of the Leg: Longitudinal Findings in Patients with Inherited Neuropathies (P1.432)

Objective: To develop a multi-parametric set of MRI tools for assaying human nerve pathologies in vivo, with the longer-term goal of establishing biomarkers of disease progression. Background: We previously demonstrated magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) MRI in proximal nerves assay myelin content changes (demyelination and axonal loss), relating to disability in patients with inherited neuropathies. Here, we scanned individuals with Hereditary Neuropathy with Liabilities to Pressure Palsies (HNPP) in the proximal and distal nerves longitudinally to assess the ability of MTR to detect change over time. We additionally performed fat-water (Dixon) MRI to assess fat replacement following deinnervation. Design/Methods: MTR/Dixon values were measured in four HNPP individuals (36–65 y.o.) proximal to the knee and ankle at two time points (12.2 months apart). Age/gender-matched controls were scanned for comparison at the first time point. MTR maps were estimated using our previously published method, and mean slice-wise MTR values were calculated for sciatic/tibial nerves. For Dixon, the entire muscle was segmented and the median fat percentage (Fper) tabulated. Results: At the first scan, mean (±SD) MTR values demonstrated a length-dependent effect, with higher values in the sciatic nerve (39.24±2.93%) relative to the tibial nerve (36.20±1.97%). In the second session, this length-dependent effect was reduced in the thigh (36.01±1.66%) compared to the ankle (35.15±2.03%). Fper values also detected changes over time in the thigh (session 1/2=8.76/7.01%) and ankle (8.87/7.34%). Significant differences between patients and matched controls were not observed, which may be indicative of the mild impairment in the HNPP cohort and/or the small sample size. Conclusions: Multi-parametric MRI may detect length-dependent pathological changes in the proximal and distal nerves of the leg of individuals with inherited neuropathies. We are enrolling a larger cohort of patients to: 1) quantitatively compare the responsiveness of each measure to disease progression and 2) correlate findings with neuropathy scores. Study Supported by: NIH/NIBIB K25-EB13659 Disclosure: Dr. Pridmore has nothing to disclose. Dr. Simmons has nothing to disclose. Dr. Li has nothing to disclose. Dr. Dortch has nothing to disclose.
Highly-Accurate Difference Schemes for Solving Hyperbolic Problems

This paper deals numerically with the hyperbolic problem (HP): $$\frac{{{\partial ^2}u}}{{\partial {t^2}}} = \frac{{{\partial ^2}u}}{{\partial {x^2}}}, 0 < x < 1,0 \leqslant t \leqslant T$$ (1.1) $$u\left( {0,t} \right) = {f_1}\left( t \right), u\left( {1,t} \right) = {f_2}\left( t \right),$$ (1.2) $$u\left( {x,0} \right) = {g_1}\left( x \right), \frac{{\partial u}}{{\partial t}}\left| {_{t = 0} = {g_2}\left( x \right)} \right.,$$ (1.3) where the consistency conditions are satisfied, i.e., g 1(0) = f1(0)and g(l) = f 2(0).
Rare-earth organic complexes for polymer optical fiber and waveguide amplifiers

Summary form only given. There has been much recent interest in rare-earth-doped fibers and waveguides for their application in amplifiers and lasers. However, nearly all of the host materials used so far have been inorganic glasses and crystals, considering the utility of polymer optical fibers and waveguides, rare-earth-doped polymer systems are also of interest. One way to incorporate rare-earth ions into polymers is to encapsulate the ions in organic chelates and dope these complexes directly. The potential of two types of rare-earth chelates, tetrakis(dibenzoylmethide) (D/sub 4/) and tetrakis(benzoylbifluoroacetonate) [(BTF)/sub 4/], have been evaluated by studying their radiative properties using a Judd-Ofelt treatment.
The Effects of Ascending, Descending, and Fixed Criteria on Student Performance and Attitude in a Mastery-Oriented Course.

This study examined whether the criteria for mastering unit quizzes in a mastery-oriented course should increase, decrease, or remain fixed across units. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three treatments, one in which mastery criteria on unit quizzes gradually increased, a second in which mastery criteria gradually decreased, and a third in which mastery criteria remained fixed. Results indicated that students in the fixed criterion condition proceeded through the course at the steadiest pace and performed better than the other students on the unit quizzes they mastered. In addition, the vast majority of subjects indicated that they preferred the fixed criterion condition. These results strengthen the notion that the level of performance expected of students in a mastery-oriented course should not vary across units.
Unsuccessful Suicide Attempt of a 15 Year Old Adolescent with Ingestion of 5000 mg Modafinil

Modafinil (Provigil) is a wake-promoting drug approved for patients with narcolepsy or other causes of excessive daytime sleepiness. Each pill is 100 to 200 mg; maximal daily dose of modafinil in adults is 400 mg (the medication is not approved by the FDA for children younger than 16 years of age). We report the case of an adolescent who attempted to commit suicide by ingesting 50 pills of modafinil. The medication was prescribed for her mother to treat symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. Approximately 2 hours following ingestion the patient complained of headache, nausea and abdominal pain. Her ECG demonstrated prolonged QTc interval. Observation for 72 hours revealed 24 hours of inability to sleep, tachycardia, and dyskinesia. There was no deterioration of kidney or liver functions, and no change in complete blood count or blood pressure.
Mects of Low-Temperature Ammonium Perchlorate Decomposition on the Ballistic Properties of a CTPB Propellant

The objective of the subject work was to characterize the effect of the low-temperature condensed-phase decomposition (LTD) of ammonium perchlorate (AP) on the ballistic properties of a CTPB propellant. Propellants were prepared from three chemically altered AP oxidizers, differing widely in initial LTD rate, but having essentially identical particle size distributions. Other physiochemical properties of the propellants were maintained constant during processing. The three oxidizers were as follows, in order of increasing initial LTD rate: 1) AP cocrystallized with (NH4)2 HPO4, 2) recrystallized control, and 3) AP cocrystallized with KC1O3. Experimental evidence is cited for the probable absence of phosphate-induced catalysis of the high-temperature decomposition of AP. Despite a demonstrated tenfold spread in isothermal LTD weight loss rates of the special oxidizers used in the three propellants, these differences had no measurable effects on strand burning rate, critical P extinction characteristics, low-pressure deflagration limit, burning-rate temperature sensitivity, or ignition delay time.
Critical issues in bioartificial liver development

End-stage liver disease accounts for over 30,000 deaths annually in the United States. Orthotopic liver transplantation is the only clinically proven treatment for patients with end-stage liver failure. A limitation of this therapy is a shortage of donor organs available. This donor organ shortage is exacerbated by the fact that the number of patients listed for transplantation has continued to increase. As a result, there has been a continuing increase in the number of patients who die waiting for a donor liver. Extracorporeal bioartificial liver devices consisting of viable hepatocytes have the potential to provide temporary support for patients with fulminant hepatic failure, thereby serving as a "bridge" to transplantation. In some patients, this temporary support would allow the native liver to regenerate function, eliminating the need for transplantation and the resulting lifelong immunosuppressive therapy, all of which translates into a cost savings to the health care system. Although the bioartificial liver device is a promising technology for the treatment of liver failure, significant technical challenges remain in order to develop systems with sufficient processing capacity and of manageable size. An overview of the critical issues in the development of bioartificial liver devices is discussed.
X-Ray Computed Tomography and Nondestructive Evaluation of Clogging in Porous Concrete Field Samples

This study aims to investigate and quantify the fraction of clogging in pervious concrete samples cored from parking lots. Image observation, analysis, and processing of representative cores retrieved from parking lots enabled qualitative relation of porosity with clogging. Porosity profiles obtained from processing of computed tomography (CT) scanned images were used to assess the nature and extent of clogging. Significantly lower porosity values were computed for old cores compared to newer ones. It was also observed that samples manifested clogged behavior because of high cement paste (mortar) content. Porosities of samples were calculated, for comparison using a gravimetric method and the clogged fraction in the cores was quantified by recalculating porosities of specimens scanned after vacuum cleaning. X-ray CT scanning proved a useful tool to study clogging, and the clogged fraction varied from 1.48% in sample PL 12-1 to 11.15% in sample QP 45-3.
Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Assay of the 18O Enrichment of Water as Trimethyl Phosphate

We have developed an assay for determining the 18O enrichment of water in biological fluids. Urine, plasma, or whole blood is reacted with phosphorous pentachloride to yield phosphoric acid. Derivatization of phosphoric acid with diazomethane generates trimethyl phosphate. The enrichment of trimethyl phosphate is nearly four times that of water and is assayed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (electron impact ionization). Yang et al. (1998, Anal. Biochem. 258, 315-321) assayed the 2H enrichment of body water after exchange with acetone, by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The combination of our 18O method and the 2H method of Yang et al. allows one to measure energy expenditure via "doubly labeled" water (2H(2)O + H(2)18O), using small samples of body fluids. These techniques were used to measure energy expenditure in mice, in which the 18O enrichment of body water can be monitored down to 0.025%.
The New Cost Management Culture: Where Are We Going?

Cost managent has developed a whole new culture, says our special guest editor. He comments on where that culture is today—and where it's headed.
Web-Based Surveys Facilitate Undergraduate Research and Knowledge.

The author presents Web-based surveying as a valuable tool for achieving quality undergraduate research in upper-level economics courses. Web-based surveys can be employed in efforts to integrate undergraduate research into the curriculum without overburdening students or faculty. The author discusses the value of undergraduate research, notes some of the challenges to achieving substantive undergraduate research, and describes the use of Web-based surveys in an environmental issues in public policy course.
Interactions of a new antimitotic agent, NSC-181928, with purified tubulin.

Abstract We have examined interactions of tubulin with ethyl 5-amino-1,2-dihydro-3-[( N -methylanilino)methyl]pyrido[3,4- b ]pyrazin-7-ylcarbamate (NSC-181928), a drug with structural similarity to nocodazole, although its aromatic nucleus has a 1-deaza-7,8-dihydropteridine structure. NSC-181928 potently stimulates tubulin-dependent GTP hydrolysis. In 1.0 M glutamate, a reaction condition in which tubulin has significant endogenous GTPase activity, NSC-181928 was more stimulatory than nocodazole or colchicine; and in 0.1 M glutamate, a condition in which tubulin hydrolyzes little GTP, the activity of NSC-181928 approached that of taxol, an agent which induces tubulin polymerization. NSC-181928, however, did not induce tubulin polymerization, but like nocodazole inhibited both polymerization and the binding of colchicine to tubulin.
Glucose and free fatty acid metabolism in perfused hearts of normal and hypothyroid monkeys (Saimiri sciureus)

Abstract 1. 1. Uptake and metabolism of glucose-U- 14 C and palmitate, and glucose-free fatty acid interactions were studied in isolated perfused hearts of normal and hypothyroid squirrel monkeys. 2. 2. The isolated perfused monkey hearts readily extracted glucose and palmitate. 3. 3. Myocardial glucose metabolism in the squirrel monkey appeared to be inhibited at multiple sites, particularly oxidation, by long-chain fatty acid. 4. 4. Over 80 per cent of gulcose label recovered in heart lipids was in the phospholipid fraction. 5. 5. Little effect of hypothyroidism on glucose-fatty acid interactions in squirrel monkey hearts was observed.
Natural language searching

Many professional searchers and end‐users do not use the controlled vocabulary terms when formulating their queries, despite there being software solutions in various online information retrieval services to guide users to the most appropriate terms. Two search software packages (KnowledgeFinder and PubMed) have been developed to allow users natural language access to their queries. These are discussed and evaluated.
Oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides with 1, 3-dibromo-5, 5-dimethylhydantoin in the presence of hydrated silica gel

Chemo selective oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides with 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin in dichloro-methane in the presence of hydrated silica gel has been developed. Decomposition of the bromosulfonium salt intermediate produced in this reaction to the product is facilitated by the water present in hydrated silica gel. Hydrated silica gel, as the source of necessary water, expanded the scope of oxidation reactions of sulfides to sulfoxides with N-halogenated reagents by allowing a wider range of protic and aprotic solvents. Also, the heterogeneous nature of this oxidation procedure made the product isolation easy. The procedure presented here is very simple, fast, and oxidizes a wide variety of sulfides that were difficult to achieve by many N-halo reagents in the past.
Nets and partially balanced designs

Abstract The use of nets in constructing partially balanced designs of Latin square type is well-known, but the potentialities of this technique have not apparently been fully utilized as yet. This paper settles a number of open questions concerning the existence of multiple or unique solutions for such designs.
Cranial Approach to the Humerus for Repair of Fractures in Horses and Cattle

A cranial approach to the humerus was developed for application of a compression plate for repair of comminuted humeral fractures in a weanling foal, a calf, a heifer, and a mature cow. An incision was made from the cranial portion of the greater tubercle of the humerus to the radius. The cranial aspect of the humerus was exposed by retraction of the brachiocephalicus muscle and blunt dissection between the biceps brachii and brachialis muscles. A second plate was applied laterally in the heifer and cow by retraction of the brachialis muscle and elevation of the extensor carpi radialis muscle. Successful fracture reduction, alignment, and stabilization were achieved in all four animals.
Laboratory analyses of corona discharges

Abstract An experimental research program was conducted to characterize corona generation from different electrode geometries in a range of conditions comparable to those found in electrostatic precipitators. A wire-parallel plate device and a wire-cylinder device were used to monitor the spatial distribution and temporal stability of corona discharges. Visual observations of corona phenomena were made with a sensitive video camera. Conditions that were varied in the experiments included temperature, corona electrode design, corona polarity, and method of energization. Measurements of the distributions of corona current and statistical analyses permit an assessment of the impact of corona electrode design on electrostatic precipitator performance. A description of the laboratory apparatus and a summary of experimental results is included.
A Model for the Loss of Oxidative Stability of Engine Oil During Long-Trip Service, Part I: Theoretical Considerations

A model for the loss of oxidative stability of engine oil is presented in which the oil in an operating engine is assumed to be in one of three categories: oil which is lost from the system, oil in which the oxidative stability is reduced or lost as a consequence of exposure to harsh conditions, and the bulk of the oil which is neither lost nor reacted. Graphical examples are presented to show how various events or conditions in an engine, for example, oil consumption, oil additions, residual oil from the previous oil change period, and the presence of contaminants in the oil, affect the oil's oxidative stability. Presented at the 46th Annual Meeting in Montreal, Quebec, Canada April 29–May 2, 1991
Nucleofection and primary culture of embryonic mouse hippocampal and cortical neurons.

Hippocampal and cortical neurons have been used extensively to study central nervous system (CNS) neuronal polarization, axon/dendrite outgrowth, and synapse formation and function. An advantage of culturing these neurons is that they readily polarize, forming distinctive axons and dendrites, on a two dimensional substrate at very low densities. This property has made them extremely useful for determining many aspects of neuronal development. Furthermore, by providing glial conditioning for these neurons they will continue to develop, forming functional synaptic connections and surviving for several months in culture. In this protocol we outline a technique to dissect, culture and transfect embryonic mouse hippocampal and cortical neurons. Transfection is accomplished by electroporating DNA into the neurons before plating via nucleofection. This protocol has the advantage of expressing fluorescently-tagged fusion proteins early in development (~4-8hrs after plating) to study the dynamics and function of proteins during polarization, axon outgrowth and branching. We have also discovered that this single transfection before plating maintains fluorescently-tagged fusion protein expression at levels appropriate for imaging throughout the lifetime of the neuron (> 2 months in culture). Thus, this methodology is useful for studying protein localization and function throughout CNS development with little or no disruption of neuronal function.
Intelligent image processing for machine operator safety

This paper describes the use of intelligent image processing as a machine tool operator safety technology. One or more color, linear array cameras are positioned to view the critical region(s) around a machine tool. The image data is processed to provide indicators of an operator danger condition via color content, shape content, and motion content. The data from these analyses is then sent to a threat evaluator. The purpose of the evaluator is to determine if a danger condition exists based on the analyses of color, shape, and motion, and on `knowledge' of the specific environment of the machine tool. The threat evaluator employs fuzzy logic as a means of dealing with uncertainty in the vision data.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Thin inclusion approach for modelling of heterogeneous conducting materials

Experimental data show that heterogeneous nanostructure of solid oxide and polymer electrolyte fuel cells could be approximated as an infinite set of fiber-like or penny-shaped inclusions in a continuous medium. Inclusions can be arranged in a cluster mode and regular or random order. In the newly proposed theoretical model of nanostructured material, the most attention is paid to the small aspect ratio of structural elements as well as to some model problems of electrostatics. The proposed integral equation for electric potential caused by the charge distributed over the single circular or elliptic cylindrical conductor of finite length, as a single unit of a nanostructured material, has been asymptotically simplified for the small aspect ratio and solved numerically. The result demonstrates that surface density changes slightly in the middle part of the thin domain and has boundary layers localized near the edges. It is anticipated, that contribution of boundary layer solution to the surface density is significant and cannot be governed by classic equation for smooth linear charge. The role of the cross-section shape is also investigated. Proposed approach is sufficiently simple, robust and allows extension to either regular or irregular system of various inclusions. This approach can be used for the development of the system of conducting inclusions, which are commonly present in nanostructured materials used for solid oxide and polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEMFC) materials.
The Uniformly Moving Edge Dislocation

The classical elastostatic displacement field has a biharmonic character conveniently expressed by the Papkovich-Neuber formula. This can be readily transformed into the superposition of two distinctive biharmonic components. These can be exhibited as the limits of uniformly moving wave fields, which are then coupled together to provide an acceptable resultant field. Our approach has been successfully applied to recover Easons', solution for a uniformly moving point force, and it is here applied to recover Eshelby's solution for a uniformly moving edge dislocation.
Quantified contribution of design for manufacturing to yield at 28nm

Yield is the single most important criterion which drives the economics of our industry, impacting the bottom line directly. It is a well understood fact that both foundries and fabless companies have an extremely strong interest in achieving high yield as quickly as possible to meet the economies of scale and rapid time to market. At the 28nm node and below, implementation of DFM is believed to be particularly critical to enable a fast yield ramp. Quantification of the yield impact of various DFM enhancements is crucial to drive the appropriate design tradeoffs. In this paper we present an analysis of yield impact of DFM features over the duration of technology and product yield ramp for the 28nm node. Yield has inherent variation due to nature of its dependency on multiple factors and stages which makes it difficult to attribute yield signal to a small action in a long chain of event, from design to fabrication, leading to successful yield. We created a set of designs in 28nm, with and without DFM, where DFM changes were done only opportunistically. After finishing these designs, both the unmodified and the DFM enhanced layouts were placed side by side on the test chip reticles. Both instances got tested over long time for yield evaluation on silicon to create enormous amount of data which we analyzed and present in this paper. For analysis of all this data, we compare different statistical methods to understand the same and present challenges faced using these methods. We conclude with successful application of Matched Pair statistical method that quantified yield sensitivity to the DFM design changes.
Effect of guest/host interactions on photoinduced electron transfer reactions

Abstract The driving force dependence for the photoinduced electron transfer (ET) from ∗ Ru(phen) 3 2+ (phen = 1.10-phenanthroline) to several cationic M(phen) 3 ″+ complexes (MCo, Ni, Rh, Cr; n = 2, 3) has been measured in water and in the presence of polyanionic microheterogeneous environments. The anionic host utilized in this study are poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) and calf-thymus DNA. In water the driving force dependence of the observed rates, plot of log( k q ) versus ΔG (Marcus plot), reaches a plateau corresponding to the rate of diffusion of the reactants. Qualitatively, the Marcus plot is shallower in the case of PSS compared to that measured in DNA and water. This behavior is explained in terms of differences in bimolecular ET kinetics between the DNA and PSS systems.
Geographic and genetic variation in death-feigning behavior in the flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum.

Five recently collected wild strains of the flour beetle,Tribolium castaneum, from Spain, Japan, and the United States were tested for phenotypic differences in the proclivity toward death feigning and in the duration of feints. Subsequently, the genetic basis for the observed geographic differences was established by within-strain and betweenstrain reciprocal crosses of the two most divergent strains. The results indicate that simple additive genetic factors are involved in the transmission of this behavior, with no detectable differences between sexes or evidence of maternal effects.
CONTACT - Nanotechnology Research for Air Force Applications

The CONTACT program (consortium for nanomaterials for aerospace commerce and technology) is a cooperative nanotechnology research program in Texas. The partners include the US Air Force Research Laboratory, five campuses of the University of Texas (Brownsville, Pan American, Arlington, Austin, and Dallas), the University of Houston, and Rice University. The program aims to develop and commercialize new nanotechnology materials and processes for the Air Force and the aerospace industry through the collaborative efforts of the intellectual centers of the consortium. Research is focused on four areas of aerospace research demand: adaptive coatings and surface engineering, nano energetics, electromagnetic sensors, and power generation and storage. This paper provides insight into the projects including work on novel sensors, energetic materials and composites.
Speech recognition and understanding

This tutorial will introduce the main concepts behind modern speech recognition and understanding systems. The state-of-the-art and the assumptions and limitations of current technology will be presented. The emphasis will be on describing an end-to-end system and how the different components fit together. No background in speech technology will be assumed.
A new series of advanced 3Cr-Mo-Ni steels for thick section pressure vessels in high temperature and pressure hydrogen service

A new series of 3Cr-Mo-Ni steels has been developed for use in thick section pressure vessels, specifically for coal conversion (high temperature and high pressure hydrogen) service. The new steels rely on minor alloy modifications to commercial 2.25Cr-1Mo (ASTM A387 Grade 22 Class 2) steel. Based on evaluations in relatively small heats (55 kg), the experimental alloys, which employ additions of Cr, Ni, Mo, and V, with Mn at 0.5 wt pct and C at 0.15 wt pct, display improved properties compared to commercial steels. Specifically, they show significantly improved hardenability (i.e., fully bainitic microstructures following normalizing of 400-mm (16-in.) plates), enhanced strength (i.e., yield strengths exceeding 600 MPa), far superior hydrogen attack resistance and better Charpy V-notch impact toughness, with comparable tensile ductility, creep rupture resistance and temper embrittlement resistance. The microstructural features contributing to these improved mechanical properties are briefly discussed.
Digital Adaptive Flutter Suppression and Simulation Using Approximate Transonic Aerodynamics

A digital adaptive controller, using a trailing edge control surface, is introduced for the active flutter suppression of wings undergoing time varying flight conditions. The aeroservoelastic syste...
Anhydrous lanthanide Schiff base complexes and their preparation using lanthanide triflate derived amides.

The complex bis-5,5‘-(1,3-propanediyldiimino)-2,2-dimethyl-4-hexen-3-onato samarium bis(trimethylsilyl)amido is a solvent- and halide-free anhydrous, monomeric lanthanide Schiff base complex. It was synthesized from triflate-derived homoleptic Sm[N(TMS)2]3 and isolated in excellent yields and analytical purity. For larger rare earths, only dimers were observed using analogous reaction pathways.
State-of-the-art flexible hysteroscopy for office gynecologic evaluation

Abstract Study Objective To evaluate office flexible hysteroscopy without anesthesia with regard to pain, inconvenience, and cost. Design A survey of patients to evaluate the level of pain they experienced during office hysteroscopy, and a comparison of costs for these procedures with those of hospital dilatation and curettage. Setting Office-based hysteroscopy suite in the outpatient building of a tertiary institution. Patients Women referred to this institution for gynecologic evaluation between February 1992 and December 1993. Intervention Diagnostic flexible hysteroscopy without anesthesia, cervical dilatation, or paracervical block. Measurements and Main Results A total of 417 women (mean age 42 yrs, range 16–84 yrs; 78 postmenopausal) were referred for evaluation during the study period. The most common indication for referral was abnormal uterine bleeding (86%). Hysteroscopy could not be completed in 29 women (7%), primarily because of cervical stenosis. Pain ratings obtained from 387 patients were as follows: easily acceptable discomfort, minimal discomfort during procedure, 133 (34.5%); acceptable discomfort, uncomfortable but easily bearable, 86 (22.2%); tolerable discomfort, equivalent to menstrual cramps and spasms, 106 (27.4%); barely tolerable pain, tolerable for short time only, 48 (12.4%); and intolerable pain, severe enough to stop the procedure before completion, 14 (3.6%). A single adverse event, a postprocedure temperature elevation, was easily treated with oral antibiotics. No pathology was identified in 183 (43%) of the women; 95 (22%) had polyps and 90 (21.5%) had fibroid tumors. The average duration of a procedure was 5 minutes. The charge for office hysteroscopy was $475. Conclusion Flexible office hysteroscopy without anesthesia was well tolerated by the majority of women. In addition, the procedure is far less expensive and time consuming than when it is performed in an operating room. We believe that it is a safe, well-tolerated, and cost-effective procedure of great diagnostic value.
Thalidomide promotes metastasis of prostate adenocarcinoma cells (PA-III) in L-W rats.

Abstract Two contradictory actions have been ascribed to thalidomide relative to tumor metastasis: immunosuppression and antiangiogenesis. The latter effect was determined with basic fibroblast growth factor in a rabbit cornea micropocket assay system. The prostate adenocarcinoma (PA-III) transplanted tumor line in Lobund-Wistar (L-W) rats produces a tumor at the subcutaneous implant site from which tumor cells metastasize uniformly only through lymphatic channels through the heart to the lungs in which secondary tumors develop. L-W rats were implanted with PA-III cells and administered, by gavage, thalidbmide (50 mg/kg body wt per day) in corn oil. Control rats with PA-III cells were administered corn oil. Autopsy examinations on day 30 revealed that the thalidomide-treated rats developed more metastatic tumor foci in the lungs than in the controls.
EFFECTS OF SAME AND CROSS-MODAL INTERFERENCE ON RECALL OF WORD LISTS

This research examined with 48 undergraduates the effects of same and cross-modal interference in the recall of word lists. The modalities were visual and auditory for both type of presentation and type of interference. A two-way analysis of variance indicated a main effect for type of interference, with auditory interference significantly decreasing recall for both visual and auditory word lists. There was no interaction between mode of presentation and mode of interference.