cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pathologic comparison of laparoscopic versus open radical retropubic prostatectomy specimens.

Abstract Objectives To compare the pathologic evaluation of 60 sequential laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) specimens with 60 sequential and 60 stage and grade-matched open radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) cohort specimens. Methods Of 68 patients undergoing LRP, 3 requiring open conversion and 5 receiving neoadjuvant hormonal therapy were excluded, leaving 60 for analysis. Among 72 sequential open RRP specimens, 60 from patients not receiving neoadjuvant hormonal therapy and without nodal metastases were analyzed. A third cohort of 60 RRP specimens matched with the LRP specimens for clinical stage and biopsy grade was also evaluated. Results The specimen weight and preoperative serum prostate-specific antigen level were similar for each cohort, and approximately 75% of patients from each cohort were clinical Stage T1c. Forty-six LRP and matched open RRP (76.7%) and 39 sequential open RRP (65%) specimens were biopsy Gleason sum 6, and the remainder were primarily Gleason sum 7. The pathologic grade and stage distribution were similar for each cohort. Ten LRP (16.9%) and 12 open RRP (20%) specimens from each cohort had positive inked margins (P > 0.10). Positive apex margins were noted in 3, 7, and 7 and multiple positive margin sites in 0, 5, and 6 of the LRP, matched open RRP, and sequential open RRP specimens (P Conclusions Pathologic evaluation of the LRP and open RRP specimens from patients not receiving neoadjuvant hormonal therapy demonstrated similar overall positive margin rates, but LRP had a lower rate of apex and multiple-site positive margins.
Nanoscale gap fabrication and integration of carbon nanotubes by micromachining

This paper presents new techniques for fabricating nanoscale gaps based on microlithography and the assembly of a carbon nanotube (CNT) across a gap. A sharp nanoscale gap was fabricated by the controlled over-etching of an Al thin film. The etching process was monitored by measured resistance, and a nanoscale gap (∼20 nm) was fabricated. A rounded gap was also created by using a lift-off process on a bridge pattern with a metal layer. The smallest gap created by this method was 150 nm. An ac electric field was used to deposit single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) dispersed in a liquid across the prepared gaps. A highly oriented assembly was obtained for the deposition across this round gap. It was also demonstrated that a single multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) could be directionally deposited across a microscale gap when guided by a biased ac electric field. Compared with chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods, suggested assembly procedure can be performed at a room temperature, thus providing more process freedom. Various configurations for device application and fundamental experiments can be conceived using the proposed method.
Use of a wireless system to measure invasive arterial blood pressure in ponies - preliminary study.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the feasibility and functionality of intra-carotid wireless device implantation in ponies, and to investigate its short-term complications. Study design Prospective preliminary study. Animals Five mixed breed, adult, intact male ponies weighing 104 ± 28.8 kg (mean ± SD) underwent surgery. Arterial blood pressure data were continuously collected from four animals. Methods General anesthesia was induced on two consecutive days. On the first day, an intra-arterial wireless device was implanted in the right carotid artery. On the next day, a transcutaneous intra-arterial catheter was placed in the left facial artery. Data from both sources were collected. Post-mortem examination was performed. Results Surgical time was 27.1 ± 11.85 minutes. All catheters remained in place with some extra vascular migration. Complications included mild seroma and hematoma. Conclusion The wireless system allowed continuous monitoring in ponies throughout anesthesia and at rest and may allow for the recording of arterial blood pressure and heart rate when it would be difficult to achieve with a conventional system (e.g. during recovery from anesthesia). Clinical relevance The wireless invasive blood pressure monitor may allow continuous measurements when only intermittent measurements would be feasible with a wired system.
An Agent‐Based Model of Entrepreneurial Behavior in Agri‐Food Markets

Rapid technological innovation and globalization have led to increasingly complex agri-food supply chains and networks, and uncertain agri-food markets. Given this type of competitive environment, management scholars have argued that agri-food firms that adopt capabilities for entrepreneurship will outperform firms that do not. We use agent-based simulation methods to explore this hypothesis. Agent-based models are particularly relevant in this study as they allow for the explicit simulation of the entrepreneurial behaviors and firm interactions that lead to wealth creation. In our analysis, we find that entrepreneurial capabilities of alertness, risk-taking, and efficiency vary in their effect on firm performance given alternative agri-food strategic landscape configurations. L'innovation technologique rapide et la mondialisation ont donne lieu a des chaines d'approvisionnement agroalimentaire et a des reseaux de plus en plus complexes ainsi qu'a des marches agroalimentaires incertains. Compte tenu de ce type d'environnement concurrentiel, les specialistes en gestion soutiennent que les entreprises agroalimentaires qui possedent des capacites entrepreneuriales surclasseront celles qui n'en possedent pas. Nous avons utilise des modeles de simulation multi-agent pour etudier cette hypothese. Les modeles multi-agent sont particulierement pertinents dans la presente etude puisqu'ils permettent la simulation explicite de comportements entrepreneuriaux et d'interactions entre firmes qui engendrent la creation de richesse. Les resultats de notre analyse ont montre que les capacites entrepreneuriales, telles que la vigilance, la prise de risque et l'efficacite, ont des repercussions variees sur la performance d'une firme en raison de differentes configurations strategiques du paysage agroalimentaire.
The power capability of ultracapacitors and lithium batteries for electric and hybrid vehicle applications

Abstract There is much confusion and uncertainty in the literature concerning the useable power capability of batteries and ultracapacitors (electrochemical capacitors) for various applications. Clarification of this confusion is one of the primary objectives of this paper. The three approaches most often applied to determine the power capability of devices are (1) matched impedance power, (2) the min/max method of the USABC, and (3) the pulse energy efficiency approach used at UC Davis. It has been found that widely different power capability for batteries and ultracapacitors can be inferred using these approaches even when the resistance and open-circuit voltage are accurately known. In general, the values obtained using the energy efficiency method for EF = 90–95% are much lower than the other two methods which yield values corresponding to efficiencies of 70–75%. For plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicle applications, the maximum useable power density for a lithium-ion battery can be higher than that corresponding to 95% efficiency because the peak power of the driveline is used less frequently and consequently charge/discharge efficiently is less important. For these applications, the useable power density of the batteries can be closer to the useable power density of ultracapacitors. In all cases, it is essential that a careful and appropriate measurement is made of the resistance of the devices and the comparisons of the useable power capability be made in a way appropriate for the application for which the devices are to be used.
Deepening the Connections: Liberal Education and Global Learning in College:

Kevin Hovland and Carol Geary Schneider champion the importance of a twenty-first-century liberal education and provide examples of essential learning outcomes that make global and civic learning central and pervasive.
X-Ray FEL Induced Double Core-Hole and High Charge State Production

We report novel results on multiple photoionization of the N2 molecule by femtosecond x-ray pulses from the Linac Coherent Light Source free electron laser. Ion spectroscopy reveals the ionization and dissociation dynamics, including a molecular mechanism of frustrated absorption that suppresses the formation of high charge states at short pulse durations. Auger and photo-electron analysis of double core hole production (through absorption of two photons on the time scale shorter than the Auger decay) agrees well with theory for the case of both K-shell holes on the same N atom, and gives an experimental upper bound for the relative contribution in case of one core hole on each N atom.
Electronic structure of oxygen-terminated zigzag graphene nanoribbons: A hybrid density functional theory study

The size-dependent electronic structure of oxygen-terminated zigzag graphene nanoribbons is investigated using standard density functional theory (DFT) with an exchange-correlation functional of the generalized gradient approximation form as well as hybrid DFT calculations with two different exchange-correlation functionals. Hybrid DFT calculations, which typically provide more accurate band gaps than standard DFT, are found to predict semiconducting behavior in oxygen-terminated zigzag graphene nanoribbons; this is in distinct contrast to standard DFT with (semi)local exchange-correlation functionals, which have been widely employed in previous studies and shown to predict metallic behavior. (Semi)local exchange-correlation functionals employed in standard DFT calculations cause unphysical delocalization of lone pairs from the oxygen atoms due to self-interaction errors and lead to metallic behavior. Hybrid DFT calculations do not suffer from this spurious effect and produce a clear size-dependent band gap. Appreciable fundamental band gaps $(\ensuremath{\sim}1\text{ }\text{eV})$ are found for the smallest ribbons (two zigzag rows); the band gap decreases rapidly with increasing ribbon width, resulting eventually in a zero band-gap semiconductor at about 4--5 zigzag rows. This finding could have useful implications for molecular electronics, in particular, since oxygen-terminated zigzag graphene nanoribbons are thermodynamically stable unlike their hydrogenated counterparts. More generally, through a concrete example, this study suggests caution when employing (semi)local functionals in DFT studies of functionalized graphene/graphene derivatives when the functional groups contain electron lone pairs.
Use of intensive lipid-lowering therapy in patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome: an analysis of 65,396 hospitalizations from 344 hospitals participating in Get With The Guidelines (GWTG).

Objectives The study aimed to analyze the use of intensive lipid-lowering therapy (I-LLT) at discharge in a broad population of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Background Early and intensive statin therapy in ACS has been shown to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Utilization and predictors of I-LLT among hospitalized ACS patients are not known. Methods The GWTG database was analyzed for ACS-related hospitalizations from 2005 to 2009. The use of I-LLT (defined as dose of statin or combination therapy likely to produce >50% reductions in low-density lipoprotein [LDL]) and less intensive lipid-lowering therapy (LI-LLT) at discharge was assessed. Baseline characteristics and temporal trends in LLT were compared in these 2 treatment groups. Results Of 65,396 patients receiving LLT, only 25,036 (38.3%) were treated with an I-LLT regimen. Mean total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides were significantly higher in the I-LLT group. Even among those with LDL >130 mg/dL, 50% or less received I-LLT. Predictors of I-LLT at discharge included LLT before admission, hyperlipidemia, prior coronary artery disease, increasing body mass index, and in-hospital percutaneous coronary intervention. Although there was some temporal improvement in the rate of I-LLT from 2005 to 2007, a decline in use of I-LLT was noted in 2008 and 2009. This was attributed to a sharp reduction in use of ezetimibe in combination with statin, without corresponding increases in intensive statin monotherapy. Conclusions In a large cohort of patients admitted with ACS, most of the eligible patients were not discharged on I-LLT. These data suggest the need for better implementation of guideline-recommended intensive statin therapy in patients with ACS.
Pathophysiology, impact, and management of hyponatremia.

Hyponatremia's effects can be insidious, particularly in patients with heart failure, cirrhosis, and pneumonia. Appreciating its prevalence in hospitalized patients, recognizing its symptoms, characterizing its etiology, and employing appropriate management promptly will help reduce morbidity and mortality among hyponatremic patients. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2012; 7:S1–S5. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Intraparticle protein diffusion effect on gradient elution chromatography

Abstract The diffusion of proteins in adsorbent particles is an important step in gradient elution processes used for protein purification. A mathematical model, which takes into account the combined effects of axial dispersion, film mass-transfer resistance, intraparticle diffusion and adsorption equilibrium, was used to simulate the gradient elution process in a diethylaminoethyl ion-exchange chromatography. The effects of three important factors: intraparticle diffusivity, adsorbent particle diameter, and linear gradient slope on the separation of β-lactoglobulin A and β-lactoglobulin B were investigated individually. The restricted diffusion correlation was used to estimate protein intraparticle diffusivities in polymer matrices using the molecular weight of the protein and the polymer concentration (Boyer, P. M. and Hsu, J. T. AIChE J. 1992, 38, 259). The combined effects of these three factors on the resolution of β-lactoglobulin A and β-lactoglobulin B separation were also studied. A general strategy for design and optimization of gradient elution process for biochemical separations was suggested based on our investigation.
Scattering of electromagnetic waves by circular dielectric-coated conducting cylinders with arbitrary cross sections

Approximation method for determining scattering properties of electromagnetic waves by circular dielectric-coated conducting cylinders with arbitrary cross section
Nutrition and Somatomedin: II. Serum Somatomedin Activity and Cartilage Growth Activity in Streptozotocin-diabetic Rats

Since diabetes mellitus is a condition in which poor growth occurs despite elevation of plasma GH, we have attempted to determine if poor growth in diabetes, as in malnutrition, could be associated with a decrease in somatomedin activity. Young male rats were rendered diabetic with intravenous streptozotocin (STZ). The growth activity of their cartilage was estimated by 35 SO 4 incorporation in vitro, and somatomedin (SM) activity in their serum was determined by the stimulation of SO 4 incorporation by cartilage from hypophysectomized rats or normal young pigs. Cartilage growth activity was significantly decreased 24 hours after STZ and fell to hypopituitary levels after 48 hours. The decreased growth activity could not be attributed to decreased cartilage responsiveness to SM, since incubation of diabetic cartilage with normal rat serum (normal SM) resulted in significant stimulation of cartilage SO 4 incorporation. SM in diabetic serum decreased to hypopituitary levels 24 hours after STZ, and decreased further after 48 hours. The decrease in SM and cartilage growth activity was not prevented by the administration of high doses of bovine GH. The fall in bioassayable SM appeared to be due in part to the presence of an SM inhibitor in the diabetic serum, since addition of diabetic serum to normal serum decreased to measurable SM in the normal serum. Administration of insulin to diabetic rats 48 hours after STZ led to significant increases in SM and cartilage growth activity, and insulin therapy 24 hours after STZ prevented the decreases in SM and cartilage growth activity which occurred without insulin. Thus, acute STZ-induced diabetes in rats was associated with a significant decrease in both serum SM and cartilage growth activity; these changes were not ameliorated by administration of GH, and insulin therapy could both prevent and reverse the fall in SM and cartilage growth activity. From these observations, we conclude that (1) that fall in somatomedin activity and cartilage growth activity associated with STZ-induced diabetes appears to be due to insulin deficiency and (2) growth failure in diabetes, as in malnutrition, may be due to decreased somatomedin activity.
DNA molecular photonics

Synthetic DNA conjugates in which one or both ends of a short duplex is capped by a stilbene chromophore have been prepared and characterized crystallographically. Selective excitation of the chromophore can be used to initiate electron transfer processes in which a nucleobase serves as either an electron donor or an electron acceptor. These processes include hole- and electron injection and hole migration. The dynamics of these processes and its dependence on distance, driving force, and base sequence have been investigated by means of femtosecond time-resolved spectroscopy. Duplexes with identical chromophores at both ends have been used to study both the dynamics of electron transfer processes and exciton coupling between the two chromophores by means of circular dichroism spectroscopy. Duplexes with different chromophores can also be used to study distance dependence of both electron transfer and exciton coupling.
A versatile suite of strong authenticated key agreement protocols for body area networks

Authenticated key agreement protocols are increasingly being applied to wireless communications for initial security setup. They were, however, traditionally developed one by one without regard to the structural and computational differences between one protocol and another. This paper addresses a rising need for implementing, in a single device, multiple key agreement protocols authenticated with different means and hence suitable to a variety of device configurations. It presents three elliptic curve based key agreement protocols with authentication via hidden public key transfer, pre-shared password, and numerical display, and with only fractional variations from a common unauthenticated base protocol. It also analyzes their security. These protocols have been adopted into a new IEEE standard on wireless body area networks (BAN); they are applicable to other wireless networks as well.
On and Off the Field: Fußballkultur in England und Deutschland/Football Culture in England and Germany

The title of this book leads to the expectation that it will define, compare and contrast the football culture of the two countries in a historical context – so necessary, as far as Germany is conc...
Decision participation in public and private organizations

In recent years, there has been a convergence of democratic theory and management theory regarding the importance of participation in strategic decision making. In both the public and private sectors, the goal of increasing participation has been sought as a means to: (1) enhance the wisdom and effectiveness of decision-makers in crafting policy, and (2) secure the support of key actors in an organizations environment. Reform efforts, such as reinventing government and re-engineering the corporation, often have a goal of increasing participation by changing the structure of the organization. Despite the apparent enthusiasm for participation, it is not as easy to achieve as it might seem. Studies of the strategic decision-making process suggest that structural adaptations are not a particularly effective route to increase participation. In this study I examine participation in the strategic decisions of public and private organizations. A survey of 368 senior managers in public and private organizations is used to examine a model that relates participation to the decision type, the structure of the organization and the environment in which the decision is made. In doing so, I also examine the influence of internal (employees) and external (elected officials) participation in the decision processes of public and private organizations. The degree to which a decision falls under public and legal scrutiny, and the amount of “red tape” found in the organization prove to be critical factors influencing the amount of participation.
Effect of Shape on Thermal Fracture

For radial steady-state heat flow through hollow circular cylinders, the usual application of thermoelastic theory indicates that the heat flow per unit length to cause fracture (Wmax) is simply the product of two factors: M, characterizing the material, and S, the shape. Studies sponsored by the Atomic Energy Commission are in progress at Battelle Memorial Institute to evaluate the practical worth of this relationship. In this paper, attention is given to its validity for cylinders with both circular and noncircular cross sections and to measuring the effect of dimensions on S for circular cylinders. Thermal fracture experiments on circular cylinders of two ceramics indicated the manner in which S varies with the ratios of dimensions which define the shape. Changing all dimensions by factors up to 1.6, with these ratios constant, had no noticeable effect on S. Using theorems derived by Biot, it is shown that the product relationship is expected to hold for a considerably wider variety of shapes than the simple circular tube. Experimental results from tubes having cross sections with a circular inner boundary and a circular or square outer boundary support the product relation. Information was obtained on the shape factor for these cross sections and for similar tubes with a triangular outer boundary.
A mechanism for tectonic deformation on Venus

In the absence of identifiable physiographic features directly associated with plate tectonics, alternate mechanisms are sought for the intense tectonic deformation observed in radar images of Venus. One possible mechanism is direct coupling into an elastic lithosphere of the stresses associated with convective flow in the interior. Spectral Green's function solutions have been obtained for stresses in an elastic lithosphere overlying a Newtonian interior with an exponential depth dependence of viscosity, and a specified surface-density distribution driving the flow. At long wavelengths and for a rigid elastic/fluid boundary condition, horizontal normal stresses in the elastic lid are controlled by the vertical shear stress gradient and are directly proportional to the depth of the density disturbance in the underlying fluid. The depth and strength of density anomalies in the Venusian interior inferred by analyses of long wavelength gravity data suggest that stresses in excess of 100 MPa would be generated in a 10 km thick elastic lid unless a low viscosity channel occurring beneath the lid or a positive viscosity gradient uncouples the flow stresses. The great apparent depth of compensation of topographic features argues against this, however, thus supporting the importance of the coupling mechanism. If there is no elastic lid, stresses will also be very high near the surface, providing also that the viscosity gradient is negative.
Gene Correction Reduces Cutaneous Inflammation and Granuloma Formation in Murine X-Linked Chronic Granulomatous Disease

Our laboratory previously demonstrated that X-linked chronic granulomatous disease (X-CGD) mice develop exaggerated inflammatory responses and form granulomas following intradermal challenge with sterile Aspergillus fumigatus (AF) hyphae. In this study, we examined the efficacy of retroviral-mediated gene transfer (RMGT) into X-CGD bone marrow stem cells in preventing this abnormal inflammatory response. Sterile AF or saline was injected subcutaneously into the ears of wild-type, female X-CGD carrier, X-CGD, or X-CGD mice chimeric for varying numbers of either wild-type or RMGT-corrected neutrophils. Intradermal AF induced marked inflammation at both 3 and 30 d in the X-CGD mice, but not in the carriers or the wild-type mice. Similar to wild-type mice, chimeric X-CGD mice with >20% oxidase-positive neutrophils displayed a minimal and self-limited inflammatory response. Inflammation in chimeric (both wild-type and RMGT-corrected) mice with <15% oxidase-positive neutrophils was also improved compared to X-CGD mice, although still abnormal. This is the first evidence that partial correction of NADPH oxidase activity by gene therapy is likely to be beneficial in reducing or preventing the chronic inflammatory complications of CGD patients if sufficient numbers of RMGT-corrected neutrophils are obtained.
Reward magnitude and a comment

Marrero, Davis, and Seago (1973) have questioned the findings by McCain and others that performance differences between large- and small-reward groups disappear after extended training. Comments are made regarding their criticisms and experiment. Two studies in which a small-reward group ran slower early in acquisition and slightly faster than a large-reward group after extended training are also presented.
The cosmological density of baryons from observations of 3He+ in the Milky Way

Primordial nucleosynthesis after the Big Bang can be constrained by the abundances of the light elements and isotopes 2H, 3He, 4He and 7Li (ref. 1). The standard theory of stellar evolution predicts that 3He is also produced by solar-type stars2, so its abundance is of interest not only for cosmology, but also for understanding stellar evolution and the chemical evolution of the Galaxy. The 3He abundance in star-forming (H II) regions agrees with the present value for the local interstellar medium3, but seems to be incompatible4,5,6 with the stellar production rates inferred from observations of planetary nebulae7, which provide a direct test of stellar evolution theory8. Here we develop our earlier observations9,10, which, when combined with recent theoretical developments in our understanding of light-element synthesis and destruction in stars11,12,13,14, allow us to determine an upper limit for the primordial abundance of 3He relative to hydrogen: 3He/H = (1.1 ± 0.2) × 10-5. The primordial density of all baryons determined from the 3He data is in excellent agreement with the densities calculated from other cosmological probes. The previous conflict is resolved because most solar-mass stars do not produce enough 3He to enrich the interstellar medium significantly.
High-performance CMOS variability in the 65-nm regime and beyond

Recent changes in CMOS device structures and materials motivated by impending atomistic and quantum-mechanical limitations have profoundly influenced the nature of delay and power variability. Variations in process, temperature, power supply, wear-out, and use history continue to strongly influence delay. The manner in which tolerance is specified and accommodated in high-performance design changes dramatically as CMOS technologies scale beyond a 90-nm minimum lithographic linewidth. In this paper, predominant contributors to variability in new CMOS devices are surveyed, and preferred approaches to mitigate their sources of variability are proposed. Process-, device-, and circuit-level responses to systematic and random components of tolerance are considered. Exploratory, novel structures emerging as evolutionary CMOS replacements are likely to change the nature of variability in the coming generations.
Sensitization of sodium appetite: evidence for sustained molecular changes in the lamina terminalis

Animals with a history of sodium depletions exhibit increases in salt intake, a phenomenon described as the sensitization of sodium appetite. Using a novel experimental design, the present experime...
Emerging pharmacological strategies in the fight against cocaine addiction.

Cocaine addiction continues to be an important public health problem worldwide. At present, there are no proven pharmacotherapies for cocaine addiction. The studies reviewed here revealed a number of emerging targets for cocaine pharmacotherapy. First, disulfiram, a medication with dopaminergic effects, reduced cocaine use in a number of clinical trials. Second, GABA medications, tiagabine and topiramate, were found promising in clinical trials. Third, a β-adrenergic blocker, propranolol, may be effective especially among cocaine-addicted individuals with high withdrawal severity. Fourth, treatment with a stimulant medication, modafinil, has reduced cocaine use. Last, a cocaine vaccine that slows entry of cocaine into the brain holds promise. These promising findings need to be further tested in controlled clinical trials.
Performing the Looking-Glass Self: Avatar Appearance and Group Identity in Second Life

This article explores avatar appearance of 211 individuals in the virtual world Second Life (SL). Through analysis of observations, online interviews, and a survey, it examines the ways that players use avatars to perform self contextualized by group identities, from gender, race, and sexuality to specific communities, such as furries or role players. Drawing on literature from fashion and dress, we examine how players choose avatar appearance in relation to participation or alignment with groups and their prevailing social norms. We found that although Second Life provides unprecedented freedom in appearance, local social contexts, as much as external ones, created powerful boundaries and expectations, leading many participants to seek socially acceptable appearance that would be interpreted in certain ways as part of their interactions.
PASSER II-84 Microcomputer Environment System—Practical Signal-Timing Tool

The development of the PASSER II‐84 microcomputer environment system is summarized. It was designed in research conducted jointly by the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) and the Texas Department of Highways and Public Transportation (SDHPT) in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Significant enhancements were made so traffic engineers at virtually any location could analyze traffic operation problems efficiently. The study combined microcomputer technology and newest PASSER II‐84 for traffic engineering applications. This maximizes progression and reduces delay, stops, and fuel consumption in optimizing arterial operations. A PASSER II‐84 microcomputer environment system was developed for MS DOS‐ and PC DOS‐based microcomputers. Program documentation and revised input and output management programs were also implemented in this system.
Circular Dichroism Imaging Microscopy: Application to Enantiomorphous Twinning in Biaxial Crystals of 1,8-Dihydroxyanthraquinone

A microscope was constructed for imaging circular dichroism of heterogeneous anisotropic media. To avoid linear biases that are common with electronic circular polarization modulation, we chose a retrogressive solution: mechanical light modulation by rotating a linear polarizer with respect to a quarter wave plate continuously tuned by tilting to the operating wavelength. Our comparatively slow technique succeeds with near-perfect circular input and signal averaging using a CCD camera. We have applied the method to anomalously birefringent crystals of 1,8-dihydroxyanthraquinone that are shown to have intergrown mirror image domains, undetected by X-ray diffraction because the twinning complexity renders differences in anomalous dispersion, already small, unreliable. The origin of the anomalous birefringence and the assignment of the absolute configuration are discussed.
Chemisorption of oxygen and of nitric oxide on cellulosic chars

Abstract Cellulose chars have been subjected to chemisorption reactions in the temperature range 100–200°C in oxygen and nitric oxide (nitrous oxide did not chemisorb). The products of chemisorption reactions were analyzed by temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) using combined thermogravimetry and mass spectrometry. The results show that nitric oxide is much more reactive than oxygen in chemisorption reactions, although separately we have found that cellulose chars gasify at a higher rate in oxygen. The results of this study are discussed in terms of possible mechanisms of surface oxidation and desorption.
Conjugate transport in polymer melt flow through extrusion dies

A numerical study is carried out on the conjugate thermal transport in polymer and food melts flowing through extrusion dies. The simulation is performed to determine the influence of conduction through the die wall and of the thermal boundary conditions on the transport in the fluid and on the conditions at the outlet. An extrusion die with a uniform temperature or heat transfer coefficient specified at the outer surface is considered. It is found that, because of conduction in the solid wall, important physical variables such as centerline velocity, pressure drop, bulk temperature of the fluid and shear experienced by the fluid are strongly affected by the boundary conditions, as well as by the wall thermal conductivity and thickness. Channels of different geometries are used for the study. The flow in a circular straight tube with constant wall thickness is studied first. Flow and thermal transport in different, constricted, channels are studied next. Different wall materials are also considered. Comparisons with some experimental results are presented, indicating good agreement. The fluids considered in this study are highly viscous, polymer melts. Due to high viscous dissipation and temperature-dependent viscosity, the flow and heat transfer are coupled and the problem is quite complicated. The results show that, for some operating conditions, the bulk temperature can be high enough to cause significant heat transfer from the fluid to the wall. The downstream variation in the pressure and temperature are calculated. The thermal boundary conditions are found to have a strong influence on the temperature field and thus on the flow. The general dependence of pressure drop on temperature, flow rate, and geometry is investigated. Several other basic aspects of this problem are also discussed.
Modeling the collapse of coiled material

After processing many strip materials are wound or coiled. Winding the material on a mandrel under tension introduces residual stresses in the coil. These stresses and interlayer movement can lead to large deformation and collapse of the coil. Here a finite element analysis is used to examine the stresses and deformation in large coils. A nonlinear jointed material model is used to represent the interlayer sliding and opening. The analysis of coils under different boundary conditions shows that patterns of coil deformation resembling coil collapse can occur.
Hydrogen Peroxide Stimulates the Epithelial Sodium Channel through a Phosphatidylinositide 3-Kinase-dependent Pathway

Recent studies indicate that oxidative stress mediates salt-sensitive hypertension. To test the hypothesis that the renal epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is a target of oxidative stress, patch clamp techniques were used to determine whether ENaC in A6 distal nephron cells is regulated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In the cell-attached configuration, H2O2 significantly increased ENaC open probability (Po) and single-channel current amplitude but not the unit conductance. High concentrations of exogenous H2O2 are required to elevate intracellular H2O2, probably because catalase, the enzyme that promotes the decomposition of H2O2 to H2O and O2, is highly expressed in A6 cells. The effect of H2O2 on ENaC Po was enhanced by 3-aminotriazole, a catalase inhibitor, and abolished by overexpression of catalase, indicating that intracellular H2O2 levels are critical to produce the effect. However, H2O2 did not directly activate ENaC in inside-out patches. The effects of H2O2 on ENaC Po and amiloride-sensitive Na+ current were abolished by inhibition of phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). Confocal microscopy data showed that H2O2 elevated phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PI(3,4,5)P3) in the apical membrane by stimulating PI3K. Because ENaC is stimulated by PI(3,4,5)P3, these data suggest that H2O2 stimulates ENaC via PI3K-mediated increases in apical PI(3,4,5)P3.
Predicting GPU Performance from CPU Runs Using Machine Learning

Graphics processing units (GPUs) can deliver considerable performance gains over general purpose processors. However, GPU performance improvement vary considerably across applications. Porting applications to GPUs by rewriting code with GPU-specific languages requires significant effort. In consequence, it is desirable to predict which applications would benefit most before porting to the GPU. This paper shows that machine learning techniques can build accurate predictive models for GPU acceleration. This study presents an approach which applies supervised learning algorithms to infer predictive models, based on dynamic profile data collected via instrumented runs on general purpose processors. For a set of 18 parallel benchmarks, the results show that a small set of easily-obtainable features can predict the magnitude of GPU speedups on two different high-end GPUs, with accuracies varying between 77% and 90%, depending on the prediction mechanism and scenario. For already-ported applications, similar models can predict the best device to run an application with an effective accuracy of 91%.
Auscultatory mean blood pressure.

This study examined the relationship between direct mean arterial blood pressure and cuff pressure for the maximum acoustic index calculated from the Korotkoff sounds in the dog. The acoustic index was computed by summing the squares of amplitudes in each Korotkoff sound complex, thereby providing a measure of acoustic energy content. Mean arterial pressure was compared with cuff pressure for the maximum acoustic index. Ten mongrel dogs were fitted with appropriately sized blood-pressure cuffs containing a microphone mounted inside the bladder and positioned over the brachial artery. The Korotkoff sounds, cuff pressure, and direct arterial pressure were recorded over a range of mean arterial pressures (23 to 155 mm Hg), achieved by manipulating the depth of anesthesia with halothane. It was found that cuff pressure at the maximum acoustic index overestimated mean arterial blood pressure by a mean of 14% (range, -8 to + 30%).
Consequences of altered isoprenylation targets on a-factor export and bioactivity.

Abstract Cysteine-containing amino acid sequences (CAAX, CC, and CXC; C is cysteine, A is any aliphatic amino acid, and X is any amino acid) are targets for the attachment of C15 (farnesyl) and C20 (geranylgeranyl) isoprenoids to peptides and proteins by specific prenyltransferases. Although much work has centered on the enzymatic mechanisms of these enzymes, the biological consequences of the differential isoprenylation they catalyze remain to be elucidated. Farnesylation of the a-factor mating pheromone of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a known prerequisite for its biological activity and its secretion through a pathway utilizing the yeast STE6 protein, a homolog of the mammalian multidrug resistance (MDR) P-glycoprotein. We generated specific mutations in the a-factor gene to encode isoprenylation targets for geranylgeranylation [Cys-Val-Ile-Leu (CVIL) and Ser-Val-Cys-Cys (SVCC)] in place of the natural farnesylation motif [Cys-Val-Ile-Ala (CVIA)]. The a-factors containing these modified prenylation sites were successfully exported by a STE6-dependent mechanism. Furthermore, these peptides, as well as synthetic geranylgeranyl a-factor, retained bioactivity. Chromatographic comparisons of synthetic and biosynthetic pheromones suggest that, in vivo, a peptide substrate containing the geranylgeranylation target CVIL can be both farnesylated and geranylgeranylated. These results clearly demonstrate that in vivo (i) different prenyltransferases may recognize the same substrate; (ii) both farnesylated and geranylgeranylated a-factor peptides are substrates for export via STE6, a MDR-like protein; and (iii) farnesylated and geranylgeranylated pheromones are both biologically active.
“Recovered memory” therapy for eating disorders: Implications of the Ramona verdict

“Recovered memory therapy” for eating disorders and other psychiatric conditions seeks to help the patient recover repressed memories of childhood sexual abuse and other traumatic experiences. Through this technique, it is hoped that the patient can work through these experiences to achieve relief from shame, body dissatisfaction, and symptoms of depression and eating disorders. However, this method was questioned in the recent Ramona case, where a father successfully sued two therapists and a hospital for allegedly implanting false memories of childhood sexual abuse in his bulimic daughter. The testimony and verdict in this case recall the principle of primum non nocere: Although it is clearly reasonable to consider an unproven therapeutic technique in an attempt to relieve human suffering, the potential risk of the technique—in this case the possible induction of false incest memories—must be weighed carefully against the technique's expected benefits. © 1996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
How generation affects source memory.

Generation effects (better memory for self-produced items than for provided items) typically occur in item memory. Jurica and Shimamura (1999) reported anegative generation effect in source memory, but their procedure did not test participants on the items they had generated. In Experiment 1, participants answered questions and read statements made by a face on a computer screen. The target word was unscrambled, or letters were filled in. Generation effects were found for target recall and source recognition (which person did which task). Experiment 2 extended these findings to a condition in which the external sources were two different faces. Generation had a positive effect on source memory, supporting an overlap in the underlying mechanisms of item and source memory.
Catalytic Mechanism and Performance of Computationally Designed Enzymes for Kemp Elimination

A series of enzymes for Kemp elimination of 5-nitrobenzisoxazole has been recently designed and tested. In conjunction with the design process, extensive computational analyses were carried out to evaluate the potential performance of four of the designs, as presented here. The enzyme-catalyzed reactions were modeled using mixed quantum and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations in the context of Monte Carlo (MC) statistical mechanics simulations. Free-energy perturbation (FEP) calculations were used to characterize the free-energy surfaces for the catalyzed reactions as well as for reference processes in water. The simulations yielded detailed information about the catalytic mechanisms, activation barriers, and structural evolution of the active sites over the course of the reactions. The catalytic mechanism for the designed enzymes KE07, KE10(V131N), and KE15 was found to be concerted with proton transfer, generally more advanced in the transition state than breaking of the isoxazolyl N-O bond. On the basis of the free-energy results, all three enzymes were anticipated to be active. Ideas for further improvement of the enzyme designs also emerged. On the technical side, the synergy of parallel QM/MM and experimental efforts in the design of artificial enzymes is well illustrated.
The role of cytoskeletal integrity in cellular transformation

The cytoskeleton appears to function as a linkage between the nuclear and the plasma membranes, permitting environmental stimuli acting at the cell membrane to be transmitted to the nucleus for initiation of an appropriate response. This interplay can account for cases of temporary phenotypic reversions in transformed cell lines, where a deficient cytoskeleton prevents the cell membrane and nucleus from acting in a coordinated manner. Implications for the clinical aspects of cancer therapy are briefly discussed.
Apoptosis and Chemical Carcinogenesis

Long recognized as a normal component of organogenesis during development, apoptosis (programmed cell death) has recently been implicated in alterations of cell growth and differentiation. Tissue homeostasis is normally maintained by a balance between cell division and cell death, with apoptosis often functioning in complement to cell growth. Thus, antithetical parallels in chemical carcinogenesis can be drawn between apoptosis and the proliferative events more commonly addressed. While enhanced cell replication may contribute to an increased frequency of mutation, apoptosis within a tissue may counteract chemical carcinogenesis through loss of mutated cells. Many strong carcinogens act as tumor promoters, selectively expanding an initiated cell population advantageously over surrounding cells. Similarly, chemicals with a selective inhibition of apoptosis within an initiated population would offer a growth advantage. In contrast, chemicals causing selective apoptosis of initiated cells would be expected to have an anticarcinogenic effect. Selective apoptosis, in concert with cell-specific replication, may explain the unique promoting effects of different carcinogens such as the peroxisome-proliferating chemicals, phenobarbital, and 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachloro-dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Cell turnover, both cell growth and cell death, is central to the process of chemically induced carcinogenesis in animals and understanding its impact is a critical determinant of the relevance of chemically induced effects to man.
A Multivariable Excitation Controller Design for a Multi-Machine Power System

The performance of a multivariable robust controller based on linear quadratic gaussian with loop transfer recovery (LQG/LTR) design methodology is investigated in a multi-machine power system (MMPS). This type of controller is known to provide good damping, noise and disturbance rejections. The model of the MMPS is based on generalized Heffron-Phillips linear model which has the feature of allowing for representation of frequency and voltage dependent IQMIS. Non-linear simulation was performed to show the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
In Memoriam: Ralph Shabetai, MD

The world of cardiology has lost a great scientist, teacher, physician, and friend: Ralph Shabetai, who died on October 15, 2010. Dr. Shabetai’s interest in the heart developed from a very young age in his hometown of Manchester, England, as both he and his twin brother had heart murmurs. Evaluations by many consultants disclosed a wide range of opinions about the significance of the murmurs as well as about the twins’ prognoses. Ralph became fascinated with biology and specifically with the circulation of the frog while in grade school. He went on to medical school in Edinburgh, Scotland, and subsequently moved to the United States to the University of Cincinnati and the University of Kentucky. Like his mentors at these institutions, Ralph soon became a great clinician-scientist. Dr. Shabetai’s first paper, “Pulsus Paradoxus,” was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation in 1965. It roved to be a seminal work, as were many of Ralph’s 165 ublications. He wrote numerous papers on the pericardium n health and disease in both humans and nonhumans. His xperimental investigations on the pericardium involved emodynamic and Doppler echocardiographic studies in ifferent animal species, including teleost fishes (also nown as sharks!). Dr. Shabetai wrote 70 book chapters nd a single-authored textbook titled The Pericardium, first ublished in 1981 and revised in 2003. This book is considered a “classic” and remains a major reference for those seeking to learn about pericardial disease. Dr. Shabetai was recognized internationally and well appreciated as an expert in pericardial, myocardial, and valvular heart disease and heart failure. He was a master physiologist and an expert and curious investigator. He used cardiac catheterization, hemodynamics, Doppler, echocar-