cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The isotopic composition of postshield lavas from Mauna Kea volcano, Hawaii

Abstract The postshield eruptive stage of Mauna Kea volcano, Hawaii, can be divided into an early basaltic substage, the Hamakua Volcanics, containing picrites, ankaramites, alkalic and tholeiitic basalt, and a hawaiite substage, the Laupahoehoe Volcanics, containing only hawaiites and rare mugearites. Cumulate gabbroic xenoliths in Laupahoehoe Volcanics have isotopic ratios similar to the Hamakua Volcanics, and these gabbros provide constraints on the crustal evolution of Mauna Kea lavas. Because of the small variation in87Sr/86Sr (0.70335–0.70362),143Nd/144Nd (0.51297–0.51308) and206Pb/204Pb (18.306–18.440), lavas from both substages must contain relatively fixed proportions of depleted, enriched and primitive mantle components. In addition, there is Sr, Nd and Pb isotopic overlap between tholeiitic and alkalic Hamakua basalts. However, the steep207Pb/204Pb vs.206Pb/204Pb arrays of postshield lavas from Mauna Kea, West Maui and Haleakala volcanoes and the existence of rare samples with high207Pb/204Pb up to 15.548, requires an unusual component in some Hawaiian lavas. This component is unlikely to be derived from sediments or MORB lithosphere, and it may be a minor plume component. Lavas erupted during the postshield stage of Mauna Kea volcano do not define a systematic temporal trend of varying87Sr/86Sr and143Nd/144Nd. This result contrasts with the temporal trend defined by lavas from Haleakala Volcano and provides evidence for important differences between the origin and evolution of different Hawaiian volcanoes. However, the Laupahoehoe Volcanics trend to lower206Pb/204Pb ratios than the Hamakua Volcanics. As inferred for other Hawaiian volcanoes, this trend reflects a larger proportion of a depleted component in the youngest lavas. Finally, postshield lavas from Mauna Kea have relatively highCe/Pb (40 ± 4 in 28 Mauna Kea lavas) when compared with most oceanic basalts, and this ratio may be more variable in oceanic island lavas than previously recognized.
A multivariate model of ErbB network composition predicts ovarian cancer cell response to canertinib

Identifying the optimal treatment strategy for cancer is an important challenge, particularly for complex diseases like epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) that are prone to recurrence. In this study we developed a quantitative, multivariate model to predict the extent of ovarian cancer cell death following treatment with an ErbB inhibitor (canertinib, CI-1033). A partial least squares regression model related the levels of ErbB receptors and ligands at the time of treatment to sensitivity to CI-1033. In this way, the model mimics the clinical problem by incorporating only information that would be available at the time of drug treatment. The full model was able to fit the training set data and was predictive. Model analysis demonstrated the importance of including both ligand and receptor levels in this approach, consistent with reports of the role of ErbB autocrine loops in EOC. A reduced multi-protein model was able to predict CI-1033 sensitivity of six distinct EOC cell lines derived from the three subtypes of EOC, suggesting that quantitatively characterizing the ErbB network could be used to broadly predict EOC response to CI-1033. Ultimately, this systems biology approach examining multiple proteins has the potential to uncover multivariate functions to identify subsets of tumors that are most likely to respond to a targeted therapy.
Comparative aspects of neoplastic invasion of the brain

This review of the invasion of the human brain by tumors is based upon a comparative approach. The taxonomic distribution of a structure of the CNS to be considered a brain is present in the following taxonomic groups: Mollusca (Cephalopoda, Pulmonata) Sipunculida, Echiurida, Annelida, Arthropoda and Vertebrata (fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals). The comparative approach (inter-, and intraspecies specific) provides a more informative, indicative, understanding of invasion of the human brain; especially in view of the morphological and functional heterogeneity of structures playing a role in the neoplastic invasion to and from the brain. It can be distinguished among primary invasiveness (as cancer in situ) and local recurrence on the one hand and remote spreading, such as metastasis, on the other. A review of the recent literature arranged according to tumor types is provided and comparative conclusions elucidated, especially to underline the tumor specificity of the invasion of brain tumors, especially the second or intra-species specific approach is therapeutically important. This is set forth against a background of epidemiology and species specificity. Due to the lack of bony skull capsule an extensive knowledge of the brain of cephalopod molluscs with its functional and morphological similarity to the human eye, and also that of the pulmonate Helix pomatia, the vineyard snail, could well serve as excellent oncologic models. Some conclusions can be drawn dealing with the theoretical possibility of first appearance of the different and heterogeneous components of the complicated structure known as brain including its supporting accessory organs during phylogeny.
Influenza virus respiratory infection and transmission following ocular inoculation in ferrets.

While influenza viruses are a common respiratory pathogen, sporadic reports of conjunctivitis following human infection demonstrates the ability of this virus to cause disease outside of the respiratory tract. The ocular surface represents both a potential site of virus replication and a portal of entry for establishment of a respiratory infection. However, the properties which govern ocular tropism of influenza viruses, the mechanisms of virus spread from ocular to respiratory tissue, and the potential differences in respiratory disease initiated from different exposure routes are poorly understood. Here, we established a ferret model of ocular inoculation to explore the development of virus pathogenicity and transmissibility following influenza virus exposure by the ocular route. We found that multiple subtypes of human and avian influenza viruses mounted a productive virus infection in the upper respiratory tract of ferrets following ocular inoculation, and were additionally detected in ocular tissue during the acute phase of infection. H5N1 viruses maintained their ability for systemic spread and lethal infection following inoculation by the ocular route. Replication-independent deposition of virus inoculum from ocular to respiratory tissue was limited to the nares and upper trachea, unlike traditional intranasal inoculation which results in virus deposition in both upper and lower respiratory tract tissues. Despite high titers of replicating transmissible seasonal viruses in the upper respiratory tract of ferrets inoculated by the ocular route, virus transmissibility to naive contacts by respiratory droplets was reduced following ocular inoculation. These data improve our understanding of the mechanisms of virus spread following ocular exposure and highlight differences in the establishment of respiratory disease and virus transmissibility following use of different inoculation volumes and routes.
The Posteruptive Maturation of Teeth II. Normal Posteruptive Maturation of Hamster Teeth

SYNOPSIS IN INTERLINGUA LE MATURATION POSTERUPTIVE DEL DENTES. II. LE NORMAL MATURATION POSTERUPTIVE DEL DENTES DEL HAMSTER.-Esseva studiate alterationes del morphologia e del resistentia contra acido in adamante de dentes del hamster in correlation con le crescente etate del dentes. Un progressivemente plus spisse strato de adamante con crescente densitate e resistentia contra acido se formava e progredeva in le direction del pulpa con le avantiamento del etate del dente. Le accrescite spissitate e densitate—e, presumitemente, le decrescite permeabilitate-de ille strato es grossiermente in parallela con le declino del activitate cariogene in dentes de hamster durante le avantiamento del etate del animal. Simile alterationes in dentes human explica possibilemente le decrescente susceptibilitate pro carie con le progresso del etate. In le interesse del disveloppamento de methodos pro le acceleration del resistentia contra carie, il es proponite que dentes del hamster es usate pro studiar le possibilitate d...
Supercurrent anomaly in a supersymmetric gauge theory

It is demonstrated that an anomaly exists for the supercurrent in a supersymmetric non-Abelian gauge theory. Since no gauge particle is coupled to the current, the anomaly does not alter the renormalizability of the theory. Some consequences of the anomaly are discussed.
Effects of double-humped axial heat flux variation on the stability of two-phase flow in heated channels

Abstract Stability analysis of two-phase flow in heated channels with double-humped axial heat flux variation, relevant to boiling water nuclear reactors, has been carried out. Single-phase and two-phase flow equations are linearized about the steady-state solution, and the stability of the fixed points is studied in frequency domain. Effects of symmetric and asymmetric double-humped axial heat flux variation on stability has been determined. Results are presented as stability boundaries in parameter space and as bifurcation diagrams. It is found that whether a channel with single-humped heat flux variation becomes more or less stable as the heat flux is replaced by an equivalent double-humped profile, actually depends upon other system parameters, such as the channel inlet subcooling. For example, for low inlet subcooling, a channel with symmetric double-humped heat flux variation is less stable than another channel with single-humped heat flux variation (same total heat flux), whereas, the trend is reversed for high inlet subcooling.
Fibronectin and Fibronectin Receptors in Lung Development

Fibronectin (FN) is a cell adhesive extracellular matrix protein highly expressed in developing lungs. Although the role of FN in lung development remains to be elucidated, several observations suggest that it plays important roles in many developmental processes. In vitro, FN can affect the migration, proliferation, differentiation, and even apoptosis of various cell types, all considered necessary for organogenesis. The cellular effects of FN are primarily mediated by cell surface heterodimeric receptors of the integrin family. Ligand binding to these receptors triggers the activation of intracellular signaling events responsible for alterations in gene transcription and, ultimately, cell function. Immunohistochemical analysis of embryos revealed increased deposition of FN during the pseudoglandular stage of lung development, coinciding with the period of branching morphogenesis. This observation, together with the strategic location of FN around developing airways predominantly at cleft sites, suggests a role in airways formation. This hypothesis is supported by studies showing that reagents capable of preventing FN-FN receptor binding inhibit branching morphogenesis in murine lung explants. Less is known about the potential role of FN in other aspects of lung development. However, in vitro studies suggest that FN may affect vessel formation, alveolar epithelial cell differentiation and lung growth and maturation.
Pain associated with transabdominal chorionic villus sampling--anticipated versus actual.

Objective. To assess anticipated and perceived pain associated with transabdominal chorionic villus sampling (TA CVS).Methods. Sixteen consecutive patients completed 0 (no pain) to 10 (excruciating pain) visual analog scales before and after TA CVS.Results. Anticipated pain (5.1 ± 2.9) and perceived pain (5.5 ± 3.2) were similar (p = 0.42) and moderate. Actual pain was less in five (31%), the same in six (38%), and greater in five (31%) compared to anticipated pain.Conclusions. These baseline data are useful for patient counseling and designing interventional trials to decrease procedural pain. TA CVS is associated with moderate perceived pain.
Two dimensional imaging of photodesorbed species from surfaces and the desorption dynamics

Abstract A two dimensional imaging method to study the energy and the angular distributions of photodesorbed species is described. Initial results for NO adsorbed on Pt(111) excited by 193 nm laser pulses are presented to illustrate the versatility of the technique. The results are compared with other studies and the desorption dynamics is briefly discussed with available data.
Template-assisted fabrication of salt-independent catalytic tubular microengines.

A simplified template-assisted layering approach for preparing catalytic conical tube microjet engines based on sequential deposition of platinum and gold on an etched silver wire template followed by dicing and dissolution of the template is described. The method allows detailed control over the tube parameters and hence upon the performance of the microengine. The recoiling bubble propulsion mechanism of the tubular microengine, associated with the ejection of internally generated oxygen microbubbles, addresses the ionic-strength limitation of catalytic nanowire motors and leads to a salt-independent movement. Similar rates of bubble generation and motor speeds are observed in salt-free and salt-rich media (at elevated ionic-strength environments as high as 1 M NaCl). Plating of an intermediate nickel layer facilitates a magnetically guided motion as well as the pickup and transport of large (magnetic) “cargo”. Surfactant addition is shown to decrease the surface tension and offer a more frequent format...
Microchip-based integration of cell immobilization, electrophoresis, post-column derivatization, and fluorescence detection for monitoring the release of dopamine from PC 12 cells.

In this paper, we describe the fabrication and evaluation of a multilayer microchip device that can be used to quantitatively measure the amount of catecholamines released from PC 12 cells immobilized within the same device. This approach allows immobilized cells to be stimulated on-chip and, through rapid actuation of integrated microvalves, the products released from the cells are repeatedly injected into the electrophoresis portion of the microchip, where the analytes are separated based upon mass and charge and detected through post-column derivatization and fluorescence detection. Following optimization of the post-column derivatization detection scheme (using naphthalene-2,3-dicarboxaldehyde and 2-β-mercaptoethanol), off-chip cell stimulation experiments were performed to demonstrate the ability of this device to detect dopamine from a population of PC 12 cells. The final 3-dimensional device that integrates an immobilized PC 12 cell reactor with the bilayer continuous flow sampling/electrophoresis microchip was used to continuously monitor the on-chip stimulated release of dopamine from PC 12 cells. Similar dopamine release was seen when stimulating on-chip versus off-chip yet the on-chip immobilization studies could be carried out with 500 times fewer cells in a much reduced volume. While this paper is focused on PC 12 cells and neurotransmitter analysis, the final device is a general analytical tool that is amenable to the immobilization of a variety of cell lines and analysis of various released analytes by electrophoretic means.
Enhancing Quality in Psychiatry with Psychiatrists (EQUIPP)--results from a pilot study.

Objectives To pilot a pharmacist-led, patient centered medication management program. Design Prospective, single arm trial. Setting Academic geriatric psychiatry outpatient clinic. Participants Outpatients at least 65 years old, proxy available if demented, and on two or more psychiatric medications. Intervention A clinical pharmacist completed a baseline medication review and made evidence-based recommendations that were implemented by the pharmacist after discussion with the physician. The pharmacist made a minimum of monthly contact for 6 months to review medications and related issues. Measurements The primary outcome was the change in number of medication related problems over time (3 and 6 months) as defined by a predetermined classification system. Results The mean age of the 27 patients was 75 years, 10 of whom required a proxy to participate. On average, patients had nine chronic conditions and were taking 14 medications. The mean number (SD; range) of medication related problems at baseline was 4.1 (2.2; 0–8) and at 3 and 6 months were 3.6 (2.4, 0–9) and 3.4 (2.1; 0–8), respectively. Most follow-up problems were new (80% and 89% at 3 and 6 months, respectively). Conclusion Using a pharmacist to deliver a medication management program was feasible and addressed existing problems. New problems, however, developed over a short interval (3–6 months), suggesting that ongoing intervention is required.
Disseminating ASD Interventions: A Pilot Study of a Distance Learning Program for Parents and Professionals

There is a need for the adaptation of training in evidence-based interventions to non-traditional methods, particularly for individuals working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). An internet-based self-directed distance learning program was created to teach reciprocal imitation training, a naturalistic behavioral intervention aimed at increasing imitation in children with ASD. A single-subject multiple-baseline design study evaluated the effect of the program on changes in therapist (sample 1) and parent (sample 2) knowledge and behavior, and changes in child behavior. Adult participants improved their knowledge and use of the intervention techniques, and child participants improved their rates of imitation. Results suggest that a self-directed distance learning program may be effective for disseminating evidence-based practices to individuals working with children with ASD.
Genetic Engineering in Streptomyces roseosporus to Produce Hybrid Lipopeptide Antibiotics

Daptomycin is a lipopeptide antibiotic produced by a nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) in Streptomyces roseosporus. The holoenzyme is composed of three subunits, encoded by the dptA, dptBC, and dptD genes, each responsible for incorporating particular amino acids into the peptide. We introduced expression plasmids carrying dptD or NRPS genes encoding subunits from two related lipopeptide biosynthetic pathways into a daptomycin nonproducing strain of S. roseosporus harboring a deletion of dptD. All constructs successfully complemented the deletion in trans, generating three peptide cores related to daptomycin. When these were coupled with incomplete methylation of 1 amino acid and natural variation in the lipid side chain, 18 lipopeptides were generated. Substantial amounts of nine of these compounds were readily obtained by fermentation, and all displayed antibacterial activity against gram-positive pathogens.
Non-line-of-sight mobile station positioning algorithm using TOA, AOA, and Doppler-shift

Location estimation in wireless communications systems experiencing purely non-line-of-sight propagation paths is an open problem. In this paper, a novel least squares algorithm is presented to estimate the location of a mobile station (MS) experiencing purely non-line-of-sight communication with at least one base station (BS) by using the time of arrival (TOA), angle of arrival (AOA), and Doppler-shift (DS) measurements collected at the BS. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the estimation accuracy and improvement over existing methods.
Comparative bond strengths of light-cured, heat-cured, and autopolymerizing denture resins to denture teeth

Standard and interpenetrating polymer network acrylic resin denture teeth were milled into cylinders 8 mm in diameter and processed against cylinders of the three different resins. The specimens were reduced by milling to a diameter of 6 mm in the region of the tooth-resin interface and thermocycled for 24 hours. Specimens were then subjected to tensile loading until fracture. Group means were compared by using the Duncan multiple range test at the 5% level of significance. The strongest bond occurred between the heat-cured resin and the standard acrylic resin teeth. Intermediate strength was achieved with the heat-cured resin to the IPN teeth and the autopolymerizing resin to both types of teeth. Lowest strength was measured with the light-cured resin to both types of teeth.
3D Reconstruction of the Source and Scale of Buried Young Flood Channels on Mars

Outflow channels on Mars are interpreted as the product of gigantic floods due to the catastrophic eruption of groundwater that may also have initiated episodes of climate change. Marte Vallis, the largest of the young martian outflow channels (<500 million years old), is embayed by lava flows that hinder detailed studies and comparisons with older channel systems. Understanding Marte Vallis is essential to our assessment of recent Mars hydrologic activity during a period otherwise considered to be cold and dry. Using data from the Shallow Radar sounder on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, we present a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of buried channels on Mars and provide estimates of paleohydrologic parameters. Our work shows that Cerberus Fossae provided the waters that carved Marte Vallis, and it extended an additional 180 kilometers to the east before the emplacement of the younger lava flows. We identified two stages of channel incision and determined that channel depths were more than twice those of previous estimates.
Observational Study in Ten Beauty Salons: Results Informing Development of the North Carolina BEAUTY and Health Project:

Researchers from the North Carolina BEAUTY and Health Project conducted an observational study in 10 North Carolina beauty salons to gain insight into naturally occurring conversations between cosmetologists and customers, and to assess features of the salon environment that might be used to inform the development of salon-based health promotion interventions. Results revealed that the social environment of a salon is a place where cosmetologists and customers talk openly about many subjects, including health. Information, advice, appraisal, humor, and empathy are typically shared in these health conversations. Several features of the physical environment of the salon may be mobilized to support health--access to healthy foods, snacks, and beverages; smoking restrictions; and availability of print or video materials, signs, or displays that include healthy messages. Implications for planning salon-based health promotion interventions--including the training of licensed cosmetologists to deliver health messages--are discussed in light of these findings.
Embodying Emotions: What Emotion Theorists Can Learn from Simulations of Emotions

Cognitively-oriented theories have dominated the recent history of the study of emotion. However, critics of this perspective suggest the role of the body in the experience of emotion is largely ignored by cognitive theorists. As an alternative to the cognitive perspective, critics are increasingly pointing to William James' theory, which emphasized somatic aspects of emotions. This emerging emphasis on the embodiment of emotions is shared by those in the field of AI attempting to model human emotions. Behavior-based agents in AI are attempts to model the role the body might play in the experiencing of emotions. Progress in creating such behavior-based models that function in their environments has been slow, suggesting some potential problems with Jamesian alternatives to cognitive perspectives of emotions. Heidegger's and Merleau-Ponty's conceptions of embodiment are suggested as alternatives to James' and as means for addressing the shortcomings of the cognitive perspective.
Space Requirements for Wheeled Mobility Devices in Public Transportation: Analysis of Clear Floor Space Requirements

Recent research on the anthropometry of wheeled mobility devices and their users (n = 369) indicates that the current dimensions for clear floor area prescribed in U.S. accessibility standards for transportation are inadequate for accommodating many users of wheeled mobility devices, especially those who use power chairs and scooters. The current report presents anthropometry data for determining the dimensions of clear floor area on the basis of occupied device length and width to achieve a specified level of physical accommodation. The implications of the findings and the need to revise guidelines for accessible public transportation systems are discussed. The transportation industry as well as mobility device manufacturers, vendors, and prescribers should understand the limitations of current standards and become involved in the dialogue about how to improve them.
Application of strong fluctuation random medium theory to scattering of electromagnetic waves from a half-space of dielectric mixture

The strong fluctuation random medium theory is applied to calculate scattering from a half-space of dielectric mixture. The first and second moments of the fields are calculated, respectively, by using the bilocal and the distorted Born approximations, and the low frequency limit is taken. The singularity of the dyadic Green's function is taken into account. Expressions for the effective permittivity for the full space case are derived. It is shown that the derived result of the effect permittivity is identical to that of the Polder and van Santern mixing formula. The correlation function of the random medium is obtained by using simple physical arguments and is expressed in terms of the fractional volumes and particle sizes of the constituents of the mixture. Backscattering coefficients of a half-space dielectric mixture are also calculated. Numerical results of the effective permittivity and backscattering coefficients are illustrated using typical parameters encountered in microwave remote sensing of dry and wet snow. It is also shown that experimental data can be matched with the theory by using physical parameters of the medium as obtained from ground truth measurements.
Toward a Biased Competition Account of Object-Based Segregation and Attention

Because the visual system cannot process all of the objects, colors, and features present in a visual scene, visual attention allows some visual stimuli to be selected and processed over others. Most research on visual attention has focused on spatial or location-based attention, in which the locations occupied by stimuli are selected for further processing. Recent research, however, has demonstrated the importance of objects in organizing (or segregating) visual scenes and guiding attentional selection. Because of the long history of spatial attention research, theories of spatial attention are more mature than theories of other visual processes, such as object segregation and object attention. In the present paper, I outline a biased competition account of object segregation and attention, following similar accounts that have been developed for spatial attention (Desimone and Duncan, 1995). In my biased competition account, I seek to understand how some objects can be segregated and selected over other objects in a complex visual scene. Under this account, there are two sources of visual information that allow an object to be processed over other objects: bottom-up information carried by the physical stimulus and top-down information based on an observer's goals. I use the biased competition account to combine many diverse findings from the object segregation and attention literatures into a common framework.
Intermediate storage in noncontinuous processes involving stages of parallel units

A model is developed to study holdup in intermediate storage as a function of system parameters such as processing unit delay times. General results concerning the periodicity of the required storage volume, the allowable unit delay times, and the calculation of the volume are presented. Analytical expressions for the limiting volume are obtained for several special network configurations. A simple upper bound is derived for purposes of quick estimates of the limiting volume for the general case, and a gradient based algorithm is reported for obtaining the minimum volume schedule for general networks.
Segregation of optic axons based on central target: the medial optic tract in Rana pipiens.

Abstract The retinofugal projection to the nucleus of Bellonci (nB) was examined in Rana pipiens using both anterograde and retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Following HRP injection into the nB, retrogradely labeled optic axons formed a discrete fascicle that crossed the lateral margin of the anterior diencephalon. We have designated this branch of the retinofugal pathway as the “medial optic tract.” HRP-positive, medial optic tract axons projecting to nB occupied the rostral and most dorsal portion of the optic chiasm. The present findings indicate that within the optic chiasm, retinal axons are sorted according to their final destinations.
Kinetic two-dimensional modeling of inductively coupled plasmas based on a hybrid kinetic approach

In this paper, we present a two-dimensional (2-D) kinetic model for low-pressure inductively coupled discharges. The kinetic treatment of the plasma electrons is based on a hybrid kinetic scheme in which the range of electron energies is divided into two subdomains. In the low energy range the electron distribution function is determined from the traditional nonlocal approximation. In the high energy part the complete spatially dependent Boltzmann equation is solved. The scheme provides computational efficiency and enables inclusion of electron-electron collisions which are important in low-pressure high-density plasmas. The self-consistent scheme is complemented by a 2-D fluid model for the ions and the solution of the complex wave equation for the RF electric field. Results of this model are compared to experimental results. Good agreement in terms of plasma density and potential profiles is observed. In particular, the model is capable of reproducing the transition from on-axis to off-axis peaked density profiles as observed in experiments which underlines the significant improvements compared to models purely based on the traditional nonlocal approximation.
Quality of Internet information in pediatric otolaryngology: a comparison of three most referenced websites.

Abstract Objective Patients commonly refer to Internet health-related information. To date, no quantitative comparison of the accuracy and readability of common diagnoses in Pediatric Otolaryngology exist. Study aims: (1) identify the three most frequently referenced Internet sources; (2) compare the content accuracy and (3) ascertain user-friendliness of each site; (4) inform practitioners and patients of the quality of available information. Methods Twenty-four diagnoses in pediatric otolaryngology were entered in Google and the top five URLs for each were ranked. Articles were accessed for each topic in the three most frequently referenced sites. Standard rubrics were developed to include proprietary scores for content, errors, navigability, and validated metrics of readability. Results Wikipedia, eMedicine, and NLM/NIH MedlinePlus were the most referenced sources. For content accuracy, eMedicine scored highest (84%; p p p Conclusions Knowledge of the quality of available information on the Internet improves pediatric otolaryngologists’ ability to counsel parents. The top web search results for pediatric otolaryngology diagnoses are Wikipedia, MedlinePlus, and eMedicine. Online information varies in quality, with a 46–84% concordance with current textbooks. eMedicine has the most accurate, comprehensive content and fewest errors, but is more challenging to read and navigate. Both Wikipedia and MedlinePlus have lower content accuracy and more errors, however MedlinePlus is simplest of all to read, at a 9th Grade level.
New Product Exploration Under Environmental Turbulence

This study identifies two organizational factors that foster explorative products, willingness to cannibalize and future-oriented market scanning, and examines whether the relationships of these factors with exploration are contingent on environmental turbulence in customer, competitor, and technological sectors. The study analyzes data from 145 U.S. public manufacturing firms to examine the relationship between the two organizational factors and the degree to which the firms pursue explorative new products---new products that are meaningfully distinct from competing alternatives. Results suggest that both willingness to cannibalize and future-oriented market scanning promote explorative new products. The relationship of willingness to cannibalize with explorative products is stronger under customer turbulence. In contrast, the relationship of future-oriented market scanning with explorative products is weaker under customer and competitive turbulence and stronger under technological turbulence. The study concludes that the two organizational factors promote explorative new products, but their effectiveness is contingent on turbulence in different sectors of the firm's environment.
Qualitative Sample Extensiveness in Health Education Research

The use of qualitative methods is increasing in the health education literature, and there is need for more information on these methods and their use. This investigation looks at qualitative sampling practices as reported in the 93 qualitative or mixed-method studies published in Health Education & Behavior from 1980 to 2000. It focuses particularly on the extensiveness of sampling in this research (i.e., the volume and diversity of information collected about the phenomenon of interest). Among these studies, individual interviews averaged 104 ± 134 informants(range 2 to 720) and 92 ± 39 minutes. Focused group interviews averaged 10 groups (range 1 to 40) and 90 ± 25 minutes. Observational studies usually occurred in multiple sites and involved approximately 16 to 24 months of fieldwork. Document analysis extensiveness varied considerably on a variety of indicators. Future qualitative research would benefit from more complete consideration and fuller reporting of sample extensiveness.
Faculty Productivity and Costs: A Multivariate Analysis.

There is increasing pressure on higher education to document results and to rationalize them within specific budgetary constraints. At margin, how much can universities influence the productivity of faculty through budgetary allocations? Are allocations for senior faculty more or less productive than for junior faculty, and in which sectors of performance — teaching, research, or services to the university and the community? A methodology is presented for analyzing faculty productivity and costs at the level of a department or school. Its application provides mixed support for the notion that university administrators can use annual budget decisions to influence faculty productivity and costs.
Inactivation of viruses by coherent excitations with a low power visible femtosecond laser

Background Resonant microwave absorption has been proposed in the literature to excite the vibrational states of microorganisms in an attempt to destroy them. But it is extremely difficult to transfer microwave excitation energy to the vibrational energy of microorganisms due to severe absorption of water in this spectral range. We demonstrate for the first time that, by using a visible femtosecond laser, it is effective to inactivate viruses such as bacteriophage M13 through impulsive stimulated Raman scattering.
LOCAL MINIMA AND GRADIENTS OF STIFFNESS AND CONDUCTIVITY AS INDICATORS OF STRENGTH REDUCTION OF BRITTLE-ELASTIC MATERIALS

It is often suggested in literature to use change in the effective elastic properties (stiffness loss) as an indicator of reduction of strength due to defects such as cracks and pores. We argue that the key parameter is not the reduction of the average (over the specimen) stiffness but its local minimal values caused by formation of defect clusters. These defect clusters can be identified by the emergence of spatial gradients of elastic stiffness on a smaller scale. A convenient tool of detecting these gradients is provided by the elasticity-conductivity connection: the electric conductance gradient is usually easier to measure than the stiffness gradient. This concept is supported by computational and experimental results reported in two accompanying papers published in the present issue (by Sevostianov et al and Caiulo and Kachanov).
Guest Editorial Applications of Optical Instrumentation in Medicine

Exciting developments are underway in x-ray, radio-nuclide and optical imaging for medical diagnosis. Many of these developments were discussed this past November in Chicago at the Second SPIE Technology Utilization Seminar on Application of Optical Instrumentation in Medicine. As examples of these discussions, five papers have been selected for inclusion in this issue of Optical Engineering. All papers presented at the seminar are printed in the Seminar Proceedings.
Photovoltage Effects of Sintered IrO2 Nanoparticle Catalysts in Water-Splitting Dye-Sensitized Photoelectrochemical Cells

Water-splitting dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cells (WS-DSPECs) utilize high surface area TiO2 electrodes functionalized with light absorbing sensitizers and water oxidation catalysts. Because water splitting requires vectorial electron transfer from the catalyst to the sensitizer to the TiO2 surface, attaching both sensitizer and catalyst to TiO2 in the correct sequence and stabilizing them under photoelectrochemical conditions has been a challenging problem. Rutile-phase IrO2 nanoparticles can be deposited directly on the TiO2 electrode by adsorbing citrate-capped amorphous IrOx and then sintering at 450 °C. Electrodes functionalized with these nanocrystalline particles show higher activity than those made from ligand-capped amorphous IrOx without sintering. In the WS-DSPEC, the Coulombic efficiency for oxygen evolution from the sintered nanoparticle photoelectrodes was near unity. The loading of colloidal IrOx and IrO2 particles onto the porous TiO2 electrodes was quantified by neutron activation...
PERK mediates eIF2α phosphorylation responsible for BACE1 elevation, CREB dysfunction and neurodegeneration in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Emerging evidence suggests that aberrant phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor-2α (eIF2α) may induce synaptic failure and neurodegeneration through persistent translational inhibition of global protein synthesis. However, elevated phospho-eIF2α also paradoxically causes translational activation of a subset of messenger RNAs such as the β-secretase enzyme, β-site APP-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) repressor, activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). Therefore, we tested whether genetic reduction of the eIF2α kinase PERK may prevent these deleterious events and mitigate Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like neuropathology and cognitive impairments in the 5XFAD mouse model. PERK haploinsufficiency blocked overactivation of the PERK-eIF2α pathway, as evidenced by significant reductions in phosphorylation of PERK and eIF2α, in 5XFAD mice. PERK haploinsufficiency was sufficient to rescue memory deficits and cholinergic neurodegeneration in this AD model. Notably, PERK haploinsufficiency also prevented BACE1 elevations, resulting in reduced levels of amyloid-β peptides and plaque burden in 5XFAD mice. Moreover, CREB dysfunction was restored in PERK(+/-)·5XFAD mice concomitant with reversal of ATF4 upregulation. Together, these findings suggest that PERK may be a disease-modifying therapeutic target to prevent multiple memory-disrupting mechanisms associated with AD.
Characterization of the L-Lactate Dehydrogenase from Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen and the proposed causative agent of localized aggressive periodontitis. A. actinomycetemcomitans is found exclusively in the mammalian oral cavity in the space between the gums and the teeth known as the gingival crevice. Many bacterial species reside in this environment where competition for carbon is high. A. actinomycetemcomitans utilizes a unique carbon resource partitioning system whereby the presence of L-lactate inhibits uptake of glucose, thus allowing preferential catabolism of L-lactate. Although the mechanism for this process is not fully elucidated, we previously demonstrated that high levels of intracellular pyruvate are critical for L-lactate preference. As the first step in L-lactate catabolism is conversion of L-lactate to pyruvate by lactate dehydrogenase, we proposed a model in which the A. actinomycetemcomitans L-lactate dehydrogenase, unlike homologous enzymes, is not feedback inhibited by pyruvate. This lack of feedback inhibition allows intracellular pyruvate to rise to levels sufficient to inhibit glucose uptake in other bacteria. In the present study, the A. actinomycetemcomitans L-lactate dehydrogenase was purified and shown to convert L-lactate, but not D-lactate, to pyruvate with a K(m) of approximately 150 microM. Inhibition studies reveal that pyruvate is a poor inhibitor of L-lactate dehydrogenase activity, providing mechanistic insight into L-lactate preference in A. actinomycetemcomitans.
Reliability of Measurements with Semmes-Weinstein Monofilaments in Individuals with Diabetes

The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of measurements with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments as presented with a six piece foot kit. Sixteen females and six males who had diabetes and ranged in age from 47 to 95 years were tested three times during one session: two times by one tester to determine intratester reliability and another time by a second tester to determine intertester reliability. During each of these times the participants were tested for the sensation to a point of pressure with one to six monofilaments on nine sites of the right foot. Since Spearman correlation coefficients of the measurements of only two sites for intratester reliability and three sites for intertester reliability represented good reliability, the measurements overall did not demonstrate an adequate level of reliability. When the data were re-organized, Kappa values of all of the sites demonstrated substantial levels of agreement or excellent agreement for the determination of absence of protective sensa...
Foreign Currency Risk Management Practices In U.S. Multinationals

Todays multinational companies face potentially significant economic exposure to changing exchange rates. One way to manage such currency risk is through the use of foreign exchange derivatives. This paper examines how foreign exchange derivatives are used by U.S. multinationals. Recent studies report that the use of foreign exchange derivatives varies across U.S. multinationals and may depend on a variety of influences, including industry membership. We develop a model to explain these variations in the amounts of derivatives used in terms of differences in foreign currency exposure. The results are consistent with our expectations. In particular, the evidenced pertaining to a sample of 654 U.S. multinationals for the 1990-1994 period indicates that the notional amounts of foreign exchange derivatives are positively associated with the degree of foreign involvement, which proxies foreign currency exposure. Moreover, the results are not sensitive to industry membership or other interfirm differences. The findings of this paper are important because they contribute to a better understanding of the foreign currency risk management practices in U.S. multinationals.
Male With Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence

A 58-yr-old active man is 18 mo postradical retropubic prostatectomy for prostate cancer, 6 mo post-artificial urethral sphincter placement for stress urinary incontinence, and 3 mo postsphincter removal (all components) for cuff erosion and infection. He is currently totally incontinent, requiring 10 thin pads per day. Cystoscopy shows no urethral strictures and no bladder neck contracture. His prostate-specific antigen (PSA) has started to rise. Metastatic evaluation is negative. No radiation is planned. Hormonal ablation was discussed and may be instituted in the future if the PSA continues to rise. The patient states that the incontinence is ruining his life.
Monopole Search at IBM: Present Status and Future Plans

A novel magnetic monopole detection scheme using superconducting high-order planar gradiometers has been successfully designed and tested. A prototype of two parallel gradiometers monitored by two independent SQUIDs was built and operated for a period of more than 5 months. With no monopole events observed, it established an upperbound of monopole flux of 1.7 × 10−10 cm−2 sr−1 s−1 at a 90% confidence level. A larger detector of six planar gradiometers on the facets of a parallelopiped with a coincident detection area 40 times that of the prototype is currently running. A flux bound of 2.0 × 10−11 cm−2 sr−1 s−1 at a 90% confidence level has been established by this detector as of February 1984. An even larger detector with a coincident detection area about 3 m2 is now in the planning stage.
Expression of the Multidrug-Resistance Gene Product, P-Glycoprotein, In Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Response-driven retrospective analysis of 382 adult ECOG patients with de novo AML for prognostically significant antigen profiles revealed that expression of P-glycopro-tein (Pgp) by >36.5% of blast cells predicted for failure to achieve complete remission (p=0.0026). In a univariate analysis of Pgp and the stem cell antigen CD34 in combination, response was inversely associated with the degree of expression of the two antigens in that the complete remission rate was 72% when blast cells were negative for both Pgp and CD34, 53% if one antigen was positive and 38% with double antigen positivity (p<.0001). In terms of associations with specific cytogenetic abnormalities, both Pgp and CD34 were characteristically absent in t(15;17) acute promyelocytic leukemia, while positivity for antigens was significantly more likely in patients whose blast cells contained a del(5q)and/or del(7q)(p=.0038). These data suggest that the unfavorable prognosis of patients with del(5q) or del(7q) may be attributed to, at least in part, a high degree of immaturity (CD34 positivity) and the expression of multidrug resistance.
Incorporating User Preferences in Collaborative Traffic Flow Management

This paper presents a preferred route selection method that includes a concept of credit points for improving collaboration between participants in Traffic Flow Management. The notion of expending credit points by users to prioritize their flights is considered for selecting alternate flight routes. Starting with a simple scenario containing a few flights, the paper presents four route selection modes for each flight, a sequential approach and aggressive, moderate and conservative user behaviors. Flights were simulated based on selected routes, with an automated system monitoring airspace constraints. With the current fidelity of the experiments, adopting a moderate or conservative approach appears to provide more benefit than being an aggressive user when all flights depart at the same time. Additionally, two different traffic scenario data (current and three times the current traffic) were used in the dynamic case to assess the utility of such a concept with timevarying schedules. Results indicate that the current implementation with moderate user behavior handles these traffic scenarios in a reasonable time and satisfies the airspace constraints.