cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract TP226: Predictors and Impact of Paramedic Recognition of Hemorrhagic Stroke

Introduction: Utilization of EMS is associated with faster emergency department evaluation and treatment of patients with stroke, especially among EMS-recognized patients. However, most research fo...
Molecular structures of human ACAT2 disclose mechanism for selective inhibition.

Summary Endoplasmic reticulum-localized acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferases (ACAT), including ACAT1 and ACAT2, convert cholesterol to cholesteryl esters that become incorporated into lipoproteins or stored in cytosolic lipid droplets. Selective inhibition of ACAT2 has been shown to considerably attenuate hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in mice. Here, we report cryogenic electron microscopy structures of human ACAT2 bound to its specific inhibitor pyripyropene A or the general ACAT inhibitor nevanimibe. Structural analysis reveals that ACAT2 has a topology in membranes similar to that of ACAT1. A catalytic core with an entry site occupied by a cholesterol molecule and another site for allosteric activation of ACAT2 is observed in these structures. Enzymatic assays show that mutations within sites of cholesterol entry or allosteric activation attenuate ACAT2 activity in vitro. Together, these results reveal mechanisms for ACAT2-mediated esterification of cholesterol, providing a blueprint to design new ACAT2 inhibitors for use in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
The effect of shear stress on protein conformation: Physical forces operating on biochemical systems: The case of von Willebrand factor

Macromolecules and cells exposed to blood flow in the circulatory tree experience hydrodynamic forces that affect their structure and function. After introducing the general theory of the effects of shear forces on protein conformation, selected examples are presented in this review for biological macromolecules sensitive to shear stress. In particular, the biochemical effects of shear stress in controlling the von Willebrand Factor (VWF) conformation are extensively described. This protein, together with blood platelets, is the main actor of the early steps of primary haemostasis. Under the effect of shear forces >30 dyn/cm², VWF unfolding occurs and the protein exhibits an extended chain conformation oriented in the general direction of the shear stress field. The stretched VWF conformation favors also a process of self aggregation, responsible for the formation of a spider web network, particularly efficient in the trapping process of flowing platelets. Thus, the effect of shear stress on conformational changes in VWF shows a close structure-function relationship in VWF for platelet adhesion and thrombus formation in arterial circulation, where high shear stress is present. The investigation of biophysical effects of shear forces on VWF conformation contributes to unraveling the molecular interaction mechanisms involved in arterial thrombosis.
An object-oriented integration testbed for process planning and production scheduling

Integration of process planning and production scheduling is a critical issue to achieving the maximum potential of advanced manufacturing systems. Process planning used to be performed without concurrent considerations on production con­ straints; hence the resultant plans were vulnerable on shop floor. While many studies attempt to create integration architectures and/or algorithms, little has been done success­ fully in developing a testbed for examining different integration approaches. This paper presents an object-oriented model for the integration testbed with which different integra­ tion algorithms can be examined. Three generic orthogonal OMT models-object model, dynamic model, and functional model-are constructed, and a prototype for the testbed is implemented with object-oriented programming. A simulation study is carried out to examine the effectiveness of several integrated and nonintegrated planning algorithms. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Integrated Comput Aided Eng 4: 319-335, 1997
Regional alterations in purkinje cell density in patients with autism.

Neuropathological studies, using a variety of techniques, have reported a decrease in Purkinje cell (PC) density in the cerebellum in autism. We have used a systematic sampling technique that significantly reduces experimenter bias and variance to estimate PC densities in the postmortem brains of eight clinically well-documented individuals with autism, and eight age- and gender-matched controls. Four cerebellar regions were analyzed: a sensorimotor area comprised of hemispheric lobules IV–VI, crus I & II of the posterior lobe, and lobule X of the flocculonodular lobe. Overall PC density was thus estimated using data from all three cerebellar lobes and was found to be lower in the cases with autism as compared to controls, an effect that was most prominent in crus I and II (p<0.05). Lobule X demonstrated a trend towards lower PC density in only the males with autism (p = 0.05). Brain weight, a correlate of tissue volume, was found to significantly contribute to the lower lobule X PC density observed in males with autism, but not to the finding of lower PC density in crus I & II. Therefore, lower crus I & II PC density in autism is more likely due to a lower number of PCs. The PC density in lobule X was found to correlate with the ADI-R measure of the patient's use of social eye contact (R2 = −0.75, p = 0.012). These findings support the hypothesis that abnormal PC density may contribute to selected clinical features of the autism phenotype.
Large Mode Area Yb-Doped Photonic Bandgap Fiber Lasers

A ytterbium-doped all-solid photonic bandgap fiber laser with an approximately 50µm core diameter has been demonstrated with an efficiency of ~70% and good beam quality (M2<1.2)
A STOCHASTIC COST VOLUME PROFIT ANALYSIS

In most models dealing with the cost-volume-profit analysis, the costs and price are usually assumed to be deterministic variables. In this paper, we build such models by explicitly assuming that they are stochastic variables. We then evaluate a number of statistical properties of these models and, in turn, consider the usefulness of the models for a short term financial analysis.
9.5L: Late-News Paper: Overdrive Method for TN-mode LCDs—Recursive System with Capacitance Prediction -

Overdrive reduces response time between gray levels of a TFT-LCD to a single refresh duration. Popular charge-compensational driving is not sufficient for TN-mode. With simulation, we found that problems in overdrive including overshoot are caused by the delay of brightness change from capacitance change. An appropriate overdriving circuit is proposed.
A model of the productivity of the mallard duck

Abstract This paper describes a stochastic computer model that simulates recruitment of the mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) under different habitat conditions and management scenarios. The model incorporates several environmental phenomena and biological relations that affect mallard recruitment. Major events include arrival of mallards in the spring, daily survival of hens, initiation of nests, selection of nest sites, survival of nests until hatching, and survival of broods until fledging. The model was originally developed as a tool for synthesizing the results of research. Subsequently, we applied the model to a variety of management situations. We also describe the sources of estimates used in the model, evaluate its sensitivity to input parameters, and review some practical applications.
Determining the weak phase γ in the presence of rescattering

Abstract We suggest a new technique to determine the CKM phase γ without neglecting the (soft) final state rescattering effects. We use (time integrated) B meson decay rates to π 's and K 's. A set of five Δ S =0 (or one Δ S =0 and four Δ S =1) decay rates is used to compute the strong phases and magnitudes of the tree level and penguin contributions as functions of γ . These are used to predict a Δ S =1 (Δ S =0) B d / s decay rate as a function of γ (using SU (3) symmetry). The measurement of this decay rate then gives γ . We illustrate this technique using different cases. Most of the decay modes we use are expected to be accessible at the B -factories ( e + e − or hadron machines).
Group A streptococcal necrotizing fasciitis of the psoas muscle.

Abstract Group A streptococci are common colonizers of the skin and upper respiratory tract. Serious infections of the respiratory tract as well as the skin and soft tissue are common. Highly virulent Group A streptococci are not infrequently the cause of invasive, life-threatening infections. Necrotizing fasciitis is uncommon and rarely the result of Group A streptococci. Necrotizing fasciitis of the psoas from Group A streptococci has been reported as a complication in patients with colon cancer perforation or peritonitis. We report the first case of Group A streptococcal necrotizing fasciitis of the psoas muscle not associated with peritonitis or colon perforation. (Heart Lung® 1999;28:219-21)
Switchable Diamine Surfactants for CO2 Mobility Control in Enhanced Oil Recovery and Sequestration

Abstract The design of switchable amine surfactants for CO2 EOR in carbonate reservoirs at high temperatures is challenging because of the increase in the pH due to dissolution of calcium carbonate at acidic conditions. The increased pH hinders the protonation of the surfactant and its aqueous solubility. In this work, the addition of a second amine headgroup ensured that C16-18 N(EO) C3N(EO)2 is soluble in 22%TDS brine at neutral pH conditions. Also, captive bubble tensiometry measurements confirmed the activity of the surfactant at the C-W interface by large reduction in the interfacial tension coupled with high adsorption. Also, the surfactant generated viscous foam that can stabilize the displacement front in CO2 EOR processes and decrease the mobility of CO2 for enhanced CO2 sequestration.
Demeclocycline as a contrast agent for detecting brain neoplasms using confocal microscopy.

Complete resection of brain tumors improves life expectancy and quality. Thus, there is a strong need for high-resolution detection and microscopically controlled removal of brain neoplasms. The goal of this study was to test demeclocycline as a contrast enhancer for the intraoperative detection of brain tumors. We have imaged benign and cancerous brain tumors using multimodal confocal microscopy. The tumors investigated included pituitary adenoma, meningiomas, glioblastomas, and metastatic brain cancers. Freshly excised brain tissues were stained in 0.75 mg ml−1 aqueous solution of demeclocyline. Reflectance images were acquired at 402 nm. Fluorescence signals were excited at 402 nm and registered between 500 and 540 nm. After imaging, histological sections were processed from the imaged specimens and compared to the optical images. Fluorescence images highlighted normal and cancerous brain cells, while reflectance images emphasized the morphology of connective tissue. The optical and histological images were in accordance with each other for all types of tumors investigated. Demeclocyline shows promise as a contrast agent for intraoperative detection of brain tumors.
Apprehension and fear: Learning a sense of sexual vulnerability

Feminist theory and the sociological thinking of Gagnon and Simon (1973) complement each other in predicting the causes of a sense of sexual vulnerability in adult women. Using these theoretical perspectives, the authors predicted that females rather than males would be the targets of active efforts to instill a sense of sexual vulnerability, and that the effects of these efforts would be revealed most strongly in adult females rather than in children. An interview was used to collect data on the frequency and content of warnings received by men and women as children and as adults, the source of the warnings, and how concerned respondents felt as a result of the warnings. Results indicate that as children, neither female nor male respondents recall receiving many warnings of sexual danger, nor do they recall feeling much concern during childhood about potential sexual assault or harassment. Males continue to report low levels of warnings and fear as adults. However, adult women report much higher levels of both warnings and fear of sexual assault than either their adult male counterparts reported, or than they themselves felt as children. These results support other findings which suggest that gender differences in sexual socialization occur largely in adolescence, rather than in early childhood.
Wide-beam reconstruction half-time SPECT improves diagnostic certainty and preserves normalcy and accuracy: A quantitative perfusion analysis

Filtered back-projection (FBP) has been a standard in SPECT imaging. Newer iterative reconstruction algorithms have been shown to improve image quality and shorten acquisition time by taking into account statistical nature of raw data and using resolution recovery (RR). Wide-beam reconstruction (WBR) is an iterative algorithm with RR and adaptive noise control. We prospectively investigated outcome of WBR half-time SPECT on diagnostic certainty, accuracy and normalcy by quantitative perfusion analysis in comparison to full-time FBP images. 434 patients underwent rest 201Tl/stress 99mTc-sestamibi full-time (20 s/stop, FBP) followed by a half-time (10 s/stop, WBR) SPECT. 34 patients underwent an angiogram within 90 days of SPECT. Diagnostic certainty was based on summed stress scores (SSS, 5-point/17 segments): normal if SSS ≤ 1, equivocal if SSS = 2-3, and abnormal if SSS ≥ 4. Perfusion defects were normalized to a percent of total myocardium, and expressed as %LV = defect SSS/maximal SSS × 100% with maximal SSS of 28 for left anterior descending (LAD), and of 20 for right coronary (RCA) and left circumflex (LCX). Change in %LV (Δ%LV = %LV FBP − %LV WBR) was evaluated for diagnostically discordant versus concordant scans. SSS and %LV demonstrated very good correlation. There were significantly fewer equivocal scans with WBR (38 vs 151 FBP, P < .0001). Most discordant scans were equivocal FBP SPECT becoming normal with WBR (123/151). Δ%LVLAD for discordant studies was greater for women (5.4% ± 4.2%, P < .001), while Δ%LVRCA,LCX (4.4% ± 5.1%, P < .001; 1.2% ± 5.0%, P = .04) were greater for men. Normalcy rate was 91.4% for FBP and WBR with more definitely normal WBR studies (84.5% vs 43.9% for FBP, P < .0001). There were no differences in sensitivity (FBP 84.2%, WBR 81.6%), specificity (FBP 54.6%, WBR 63.6%), and accuracy (FBP, WBR 77.6%). Quantitative perfusion analysis suggests that adaptive noise control with WBR improves uniformity of myocardium comparing to FBP techniques, and results in improved diagnostic certainty while preserving normalcy and accuracy.
Murine Model for Cystic Fibrosis Bone Disease Demonstrates Osteopenia and Sex-Related Differences in Bone Formation

As the incidence of cystic fibrosis (CF) bone disease is increasing, we analyzed CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) deficient mice (CF mice) to gain pathogenic insights. In these studies comparing adult (14 wk) CF and C57BL/6J mice, both bone length and total area were decreased in CF mice. Metaphyseal trabecular and cortical density were also decreased, as well as diaphyseal cortical and total density. Trabecular bone volume was diminished in CF mice. Female CF mice revealed decreased trabecular width and number compared with C57BL/6J, whereas males demonstrated no difference in trabecular number. Female CF mice had reduced mineralizing surface and bone formation rates. Conversely, male CF mice had increased mineralizing surface, mineral apposition, and bone formation rates compared with C57BL/6J males. Bone formation rate was greater in males compared with female CF mice. Smaller bones with decreased density in CF, despite absent differences in osteoblast and osteoclast surfaces, suggest CF transmembrane conductance regulator influences bone cell activity rather than number. Differences in bone formation rate in CF mice are suggestive of inadequate bone formation in females but increased bone formation in males. This proanabolic observation in male CF mice is consistent with other clinical sex differences in CF.
Optical chirality and its interaction with matter.

We introduce a measure of the local density of chirality of the electromagnetic field. This optical chirality determines the asymmetry in the rates of excitation between a small chiral molecule and its mirror image, and applies to molecules in electromagnetic fields with arbitrary spatial dependence. A continuity equation for optical chirality in the presence of material currents describes the flow of chirality, in a manner analogous to the Poynting theorem for electromagnetic energy. ``Superchiral'' solutions to Maxwell's equations show larger chiral asymmetry, in some regions of space, than is found in circularly polarized plane waves.
Rheological Factors for Bentonite Suspensions

The flow behavior of bentonite colloidal suspensions is given in terms of the stress-strain relations with respect to variables of concentration, suspension medium, hydrogen-ion concentration, temperature, and the successive application of shear stress. Repeated cycling (successive reruns of upcurve and downcurve) caused thixotropic hysteresis loops which decreased in size to a final constant and reproducible flow curve. A hysteresis loop did not appear for a mixture of less than 20 wt% bentonite and glycerin. The flow curves are discussed in terms of bondings in “cardhouse” and “blockhouse” models for dilute and concentrated suspensions respectively. Eyring's rate theory of viscosity is discussed briefly in terms of the well-known generalized viscosity equation which was applied successfully to given flow curves. Physical and chemical characterizations are compared in terms of thixotropic flow models for aqueous, glycerol, and oil (Bentone grease) suspensions.
Improving Diagnostic Accuracy: Simple Statistical Nomograms to Interpret Medical Literature

Authors of medical diagnostic literature frequently report sensitivity and specificity as measures of the quality of an evaluative study. However, these representations are easily misinterpreted by clinicians to be indicative of the prospective value of a test as predictive of the presence (positive predictive value, PPV) or absence of disease (negative predictive value, NPV). Although these phenomena are related, the mathematical expression and, therefore, the conclusions are more complex. Using algebraic methods, we derived simplified formulas to determine PPV, NPV, and accuracy (A). These general terms were solved by constraining individual variables, resulting in the development of curves that may be used routinely to analyze medical diagnostic literature. Equations for PPV, NPV, and A were generated by using sensitivity, specificity, and incidence/prevalence as the dependent variables. These equations have been employed to generate representative graphs of PPV, NPV, and A and to clarify trends in these features with respect to commonly reported data. These simplified equations allow clinicians to determine the utility of diagnostic studies in prospect, despite having only sensitivity, specificity, and incidence or prevalence of disease.
Locally compact subgroups of the spectrum of the measure algebra III

The maximal ideal space of the measure algebra of a locally compact abelian (LCA) group has the structure of a compact commutative semitopological semigroup (separately continuous multiplication). Idempotents in the semigroup correspond to certain algebraic projections on the measure algebra. In this paper we study the maximal groups about certain idempotents.
Temperature-Sensitive Mutants of Influenza Virus. IV. Induction of Interferon in the Nasopharynx by Wild-Type and a Temperature-Sensitive Recombinant Virus

volunteers. The amount of interferon in the NP washes of these volunteers was 15-fold less than that induced by wild-type virus. In addition, interferon was detected for a shorter period in men infected with the ts-1[E] virus. There was a strong correlation between the level of virus multiplication and the amount of interferon induced in the NP washes by either the ts or wild-type virus. In vitro, the ts and wild-type viruses had similar sensitivities to interferon; in addition, under conditions that were permissive for the ts virus (34 C), it stimulated as much interferon and interference in tissue culture as wild-type virus. It appeared that the low levels of interferon induced in the nasopharynx by the ts virus in vivo were a consequence of the low level of virus multiplication at that site. Furthermore, the mechanism(s) responsible for the attenuation of this ts virus does not seem to be related to an increased production of interferon in the nasopharynx or to an enhanced sensitivity of this virus to interferon.
Haemolymph protein patterns in developing tobacco hornworm larvae

Abstract Quantitative changes in haemolymph proteins from each physiological phase of the last three larval instars of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta , were studied by means of disk electrophoresis. Twelve anodical migrating protein bands were found, six of which occurred only sporadically. Total protein concentration increased from pharate third instar to late fifth instar larvae, then decreased slightly in the pharate pupal stages. Some individual bands showed cyclic patterns within each instar similar to the overall cyclic pattern of total protein, whereas other bands showed different patterns or no pattern.
Influence of Lithium Salts on the Discharge Chemistry of Li–Air Cells

In this work, we show that the use of a high boiling point ether solvent (tetraglyme) promotes the formation of Li2O2 in a lithium–air cell. However, another major constituent in the discharge product of a Li–air cell contains halides from the lithium salts and C–O from the tetraglyme used as the solvent. This information is critical to the development of Li–air electrolytes, which are stable and promote the formation of the desired Li2O2 products.
Topology Optimization of Energy Harvesting Skin Structure Utilizing Harmonic Vibration

This paper presents a piezoelectric energy harvesting skin (EHS) design using topology optimization. EHS was motivated to embody a power-generating skin structure by attaching thin piezoelectric patches onto a vibrating skin for the purpose of self-sustainable health monitoring with wireless sensors. In this paper the hybrid cellular automata (HCA) algorithm is involved to optimize piezoelectric material distribution on a harmonically vibrating skin structure. Valid computational (finite element) models for vibrating structure are constructed, and the optimal piezoelectric material distribution is found on a surface of the structure. The piezoelectric material is modeled with penalization, and the optimal density and poling direction is found per each piezoelectric finite element using HCA algorithm. HCA algorithm demonstrated its ability to find the optimal design for piezoelectric material to yield maximum power output.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Does Early Mentorship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Make a Difference? The Klingenstein Third-Generation Foundation Medical Student Fellowship Program

There is a critical shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the United States. Increased exposure, through mentorship, clinical experiences, and research opportunities, may increase the number of medical students selecting child and adolescent psychiatry (CAP) as a career choice. Between 2008 and 2011, 241 first-year participants of a program to increase exposure to CAP, funded by the Klingenstein Third-Generation Foundation (KTGF) at 10 medical schools completed baseline surveys assessing their opinions of and experiences in CAP, and 115 second-year participants completed follow-up surveys to reflect 1 year of experience in the KTGF Program. Students reported significantly increased positive perception of mentorship for career and research guidance, along with perceived increased knowledge and understanding of CAP. Results suggest that the KTGF Program positively influenced participating medical students, although future studies are needed to determine whether these changes will translate into more medical students entering the field of CAP.
Non-existence of black-hole solutions for the electroweak Einstein–Dirac–Yang/Mills equations

We consider a static, spherically symmetric system of a Dirac particle interacting with classical gravity and an electroweak Yang?Mills field. It is shown that the only black-hole solutions of the corresponding coupled equations must be the extreme Reissner?Nordstr?m solutions, locally near the event horizon. This work generalizes a series of papers published by F Finster, J Smoller and S-T Yau.
Cyclic Pursuit or “the Three Bugs Problem”

(1971). Cyclic Pursuit or “the Three Bugs Problem”. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 78, No. 6, pp. 631-639.
Photoluminescence assessment of solar cell materials

Abstract Photoluminescence is a technique useful to the understanding of semiconductors. The emission spectrum reveals the relative distribution of states that are linked by radiative transitions. The kinetics of the radiative process indicate how localized the transitions may be. The emission efficiency measures the importance of non-radiative competing processes that are detrimental to carrier survival. In this paper we discuss the photoluminescence of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H), we consider the importance of hydrogen, the role of doping and the effect of temperature and we point out where this measurement technique may be useful to the improvement of solar cell performance.
Signal transduction alterations in peripheral nerves from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

We have previously determined the presence of muscarinic receptors and the expression of several G proteins in homogenates and myelin fractions from rat sciatic nerves. In the present study we investigated whether changes in several signal transduction pathways in peripheral nerves might be responsible for some of the biochemical abnormalities (e.g., phosphoinositide metabolism) present in sciatic nerves from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Sciatic nerves from 5 week diabetic rats that were prelabelled with [3H]-myo-inositol displayed a significant increase in the basal release of inositol mono- and bis-phosphate, while carbamylcholine-stimulated release was significantly smaller. Basal- and forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity was significantly decreased in sciatic nerve homogenates from diabetic animals. However, we were unable to detect any significant differences in the levels of cAMP in intact nerves or in nerve segments that were incubated in the presence or absence of forskolin. ADP-ribosylation experiments showed that in sciatic nerves from experimentally diabetic rats there was a significant increase in the ADP-ribosylation catalyzed by cholera and pertussis toxins. Measurements of the levels of alpha-subunits of G proteins revealed that the expression of Gq/11 alpha, Gs alpha, and Gi-3 alpha was increased by 30 to 50%. These results indicate that during the course of experimental diabetes, peripheral nerves exhibit an abnormal production of inositol phosphates and cAMP, together with an abnormal expression and/or function of G proteins. One of the consequences of such alterations is the diminished release of inositol phosphates triggered by muscarinic agonists in diabetic sciatic nerves.
THE ROLE OF PERSONALITY IN TREATMENT OUTCOME FOR DRUG INVOLVED OFFENDERS

This study examines the relationship of personality characteristics to drug treatment effectiveness for prison releasees. Prison releasees from two drug treatment programs (an out‐patient setting and a therapeutic community setting) are compared with each other and to releasees from a comparison group. Treatment success is measured 6 months after release from prison in terms of 1) abstinence of illicit drug use and 2) lack of recidivism. The data are analyzed using logistic regression with demographic, criminal history, past drug use, psychological, and treatment measures included in the equations. Findings suggest that several personality dimensions are related to treatment effectiveness, sometimes in unexpected ways. The findings also reveal that different personality characteristics are associated with each of the two measures of treatment success. The results are discussed in terms of policy implications for treatment programs.
Interaction of Sulfur with Au/Pt(111) and Ag/Pt(111) Surfaces: Photoemission Studies

The reaction of sulfur with Au/Pt(111) and Ag/Pt(111) surfaces has been investigated using high-resolution photoemission spectroscopy with synchrotron radiation. The valence spectra of S/Au/Pt(111) and S/Ag/Pt(111) surfaces display weak signals at binding energies between 1.8 and 0 eV. The adsorption of S induces a large decrease in the density of states displayed by the bimetallic surfaces around the Fermi level. This phenomenon may be responsible for the decrease in chemical and catalytic activity that accompanies sulfur poisoning. In S/Au/Pt(111) surfaces, sulfur does not form compounds with Au or Pt. Au forms three-dimensional clusters, while S segregates into two-dimensional islands of high local coverage where it is bonded to hollow and bridge sites of the Pt substrate. In S/Ag/Pt(111) surfaces, silver reacts with sulfur and promotes the synthesis of platinum sulfides. The formation of silver and platinum sulfides makes possible the adsorption of large amounts of sulfur on Ag/Pt(111) surfaces. The S...
Relationship between patient report and physician assessment of urinary incontinence severity.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between patient report and physician assessment of urinary incontinence severity and to compare these assessments to a validated severity instrument. Study Design: A sequential sample of 153 women with urinary incontinence was enrolled over 12 months. Patients completed a detailed health questionnaire that included a medical comorbidity scale, 12-item short-form health survey (SF-12) the incontinence quality of life instrument, the PRIME-MD patient health questionnaire, and a patient incontinence severity assessment. The patient incontinence severity assessment is a single question that asks the patient to rate the severity of her incontinence symptoms on a 5-point Likert scale (range: 1 [mild] to 5 [severe]). After the physicians completed a detailed history, a physical examination, and a review of a 3-day voiding diary, they assigned a physician incontinence severity assessment score. The physician incontinence severity assessment is a physician rating of the severity of the patient's incontinence on a 5-point Likert scale (range: 1 [mild] to 5 [severe]). A validated severity index was computed and used for comparison. This is a multiplicative index that is based on frequency (4 levels) and amount of leakage (2 levels), which yields an index value of 1 to 8. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated for patient incontinence severity assessment, the physician incontinence severity assessment scores, and the severity index values. Chi-square tests were used to determine differences between patient incontinence severity assessment and physician incontinence severity assessment ratings. Results: Spearman correlation coefficients for patient incontinence severity assessment and physician incontinence severity assessment were 0.62 ( P P P Conclusion: There is a high correlation between patient report and physician assessment of urinary incontinence severity. Both patient reports (patient incontinence severity assessment) and physician assessments (physician incontinence severity assessment) correlate well with a validated severity index. The agreement between patient and physician ratings is very high for mild incontinence but decreases as incontinence severity progresses. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;189:76-80.)
Optimization of Instrumental Parameters in an Automated Nonflame Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometer

A fully automated nonflame atomic fluorescence (AF) spectrometer has been constructed to facilitate a critical study of how the atomization process is affected by varying the experimental parameters. A hot wire loop atomizer is evaluated and fully optimized for atomic fluorescence spectrometry. A laboratory minicomputer or a hardware logic control system directs the spectrometer operation, including sample delivery to the atomizer, application of electrical current to heat the atomizer, data acquisition, and mathematical analysis of the data. The relative standard deviation of the data is 4 to 7%. Under most conditions on-line data processing allows variation and optimization of the parameters in real time. The optimum parameters for a platinum loop AF spectrometer are presented along with typical analytical data.
Model for the neuromuscular complications of systemic lupus erythematosus

The purpose of this study is to evaluate nerve and muscle physiology and histopathology in a murine lupus model. Muscle strength, compound muscle action potentials (distal latency and amplitude), proximal limb muscle, sciatic nerve and joint specimens were studied in MRL/lpr (lupus model) and MRL/++ (control) mice. MRL/lpr mice showed decreased muscle strength (P<10-6 Wilcoxon rank sum), lower compound muscle action potential mean amplitude and prolonged distal latency (P = 0.005 and 0.042, Mann-Whitney U-test), and muscle and nerve inflammation (P = 0.002 and P = 0.037, Fisher's exact test) compared with MRL/++ mice. The MRL/lpr strain evaluated in this study demonstrated muscle weakness, abnormal motor nerve conduction studies and inflammation of both muscle and nerve. These features make it an excellent model for studying the neuromuscular complications of lupus.
Estimate of the dust attrition of granular activated carbons

Abstract The dust attrition of granular activated carbon is identified as a particleto-particle wear process between moving particles of the activated carbon. A simple vibration test is described in which a sample container with a wire mesh bottom is vibrated at a known acceleration. A constant air flow is withdrawn beneath a particulate-grade glass filter and the weight of dust deposited on the filter determined after six sequential vibration periods of 10 min each. The rate of dust attrition is then calculated. The experimental parameters that influence the attrition results are the vibrational acceleration, the particle size distribution, the time on the vibrator and, above all, the source of the activated carbon.
V → R, T energy transfer processes in vibrationally excited pentafluorobenzene using a Hg tracer absorption method

Abstract A new technique based upon the Doppler and Lorentz broadening of the isotopic and hyperfine Hg multiplet lines near 254 nm was used to monitor the translational equilibration of vibrationally excited pentafluorobenzene (PFB). Excitation was achieved with a pulsed CO 2 infrared laser focused into a cell containing PFB and a trace amount of Hg. Rates of V→ R, T energy transfer were found to be linearly dependent on both the excitation energy and the pressure of PFB. Excitation energies were independently determined by the Hg absorption technique and by measuring the change in absorption by the PFB at 254 nm. For PFB ∗ -PFB ∗ collisions, the average energy transferred per collision divided by the average excitation energy of the colliding pair, 〈Δ〉/ 〈 E 〉, is0.0133±0.0016.
Multi-layer configuration for the cathode electrode of polymer electrolyte fuel cell

This paper conducts a one-dimensional theoretical study on the electrochemical phenomenon in the dual-layer cathode electrode of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) with varying sub-layer thicknesses, and further extends the analysis to a triple-layer configuration. We obtain the explicit solution for a general dual-layer configuration with different layer thicknesses. Distributions of the key quantities such as the local reaction current and electrolyte overpotential are exhibited at different ratios of the ionic conductivities, electrochemical kinetics, and layer thicknesses. Based on the dual-layer approach, we further derive the explicit solutions for a triple-layer electrode. Sub-layer performances are plotted and compared. The results indicate that the layer adjacent to the electrolyte membrane may contribute a major part of the electrode faradic current production. The theoretical analysis presented in this paper can be applied to assist electrode development through complicated multi-layer configuration for cost-effective high performance electrodes.
Homing and summer feeding site fidelity of Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) in the Gulf of Alaska, established using satellite-transmitting archival tags

Abstract A total of 48 adult Pacific halibut were tagged in the Gulf of Alaska using Pop-up Archival Transmitting (PAT) tags. Fish were tagged during 2005 while on their summer feeding grounds and the tags programmed to release from their host fish (pop-up) exactly 365 days after deployment, thus providing a full year's environmental data (depth, temperature, and light levels) as well as each fish's location the summer after tagging. Nine tags were recovered by the commercial fleet substantially in advance of their pop-up dates, eight prematurely released from their host fish, and six failed to report to satellites on their programmed date. For halibut that escaped the fishery and whose tags broadcast reliable endpoint locations ( n = 23) or were recaptured by the commercial fishery close to their pop-up date ( n = 2), 80% were located within 20 km of their initial tagging location after 1 year at liberty. Depth records confirmed that most of these fish ( n = 15; 60% of all tag recoveries) had actively homed to their summer grounds after spending winter in deep water at the shelf edge, as opposed to simply remaining near their tagging location throughout time at liberty. The rate of site fidelity observed here is further corroborated by an ongoing Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagging study, suggesting that summer site fidelity and homing are likely to be general characteristics across recruited ages, as well as being interannually persistent. Homing provides a strong mechanism to establish and maintain population substructure, and high rates within a population have implications for ongoing research, interpretation of historical fishery trends, and conceptual models of population structure.
Postoperative oral amiodarone as prophylaxis against atrial fibrillation after coronary artery surgery

Abstract Objective: To assess the prophylactic effect of postoperative oral amiodarone on the incidence and severity of atrial fibrillation (AF) after coronary artery surgery. Design: Prospective, randomized, blinded, controlled study. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Patients who had coronary artery surgery (n = 200). Interventions: Patients in group 1 (n = 100) received oral amiodarone, 15 mg/kg, 4 hours after arrival in the intensive care unit, followed by 7 mg/kg/d until hospital discharge. Patients in group 2 (n = 100) received placebo. Measurements and Main Results: Incidence, duration, and recurrence of new episodes of AF and maximal ventricular rate response were recorded from day 0 until hospital discharge. Side effects related to amiodarone and complications induced by new-onset AF were noted. The incidence of new-onset AF (12% v 25%) and maximal ventricular rate response (120 ± 21 beats/min v 135 ± 24 beats/min) were significantly lower in the amiodarone group. There were no side effects related to the administration of amiodarone. The incidence of complications induced by AF was comparable between the 2 groups. Conclusion: Postoperative prophylactic oral amiodarone after coronary artery surgery is safe and effective in reducing the incidence of new-onset AF and maximal ventricular rate response. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Individual and Group Meaning: Exploring the Reciprocal Relation

Abstract Group construct systems were defined through application of a group construct grid that elicited types of groups in which an individual had participated or closely observed. The Group Grid was administered at the beginning and the end of a 4-month graduate class. The meanings of groups to participants were interpreted by examining changes in Group Grids over time and in relation to high and low levels of group performance. The meaning of individuals to the group was assessed by peer evaluations given at the end of the project. High and low levels of peer evaluation were then predicted by an individual's Group Grid measures. The most consistent findings were that greater variation in application regarding types of groups and characteristics about groups showed strong associations with both high levels of group performance and high levels of peer evaluation. Suggestions are given for future research
Enhanced calcium transport by sarcoplasmic reticulum in mild cardiac hypertrophy

Cardiac hypertrophy is associated with changes in sarcoplasmic reticulum function which may depend on the method of hypertrophy induction, its severity, acuteness, and duration. To assess the effects of mild, pressure-overload hypertrophy on Ca2+ transport capacity of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum, abdominal aortic constriction was produced in adult rats. This resulted in a mild degree of hypertrophy (22% increase in left ventricle/body weight ratio compared to sham-operated controls). The effect of hypertrophy on the sarcoplasmic reticulum was assessed 6 weeks after the operation. The yield of microsomal protein was increased in hypertrophied hearts (1.43 ± 0.2 mg/g vs. 1.1 ± 0.1 mg/g in controls) and was associated with enhanced Ca2+ uptake (107 ± 3.2 nmol Ca2+ mg−1 min−1 vs. 63 ± 1 in controls, P < 0.01) and Ca2+ ATPase activity (60 ± 1.8 nmol Pi mg−1 min−1 vs. 35 ± 1.2 in controls, P < 0.01). The steady-state levels of the phosphoprotein intermediate [EP] of the transport ATPase were higher in operated animals (1.61 ± 0.2 nmol/mg vs. 1.1 ± 0.1 nmol/mg) without a change in the Ca2+-, ATP-, or pH-dependency. The rate of [EP] dephosphorylation was, however, significantly faster in the hypertrophied animals. These results indicate that, in this model of cardiac hypertrophy, Ca2+ transport by the sarcoplasmic reticulum is enhanced and may be an important determinant of contractile performance.
Nature is changing in more ways than one

using the bogus pipeline to examine sex differences in self-reported sexuality. J. Sex Res. 40, 27–35 19 Mascie-Taylor, C.G.N. (1988) Assortative mating for psychometric characters. In Human Mating Patterns (Mascie-Taylor, C.G.N. and Boyce, A.J., eds), pp. 61–82, Cambridge University Press 20 Bereczkei, T. and Csanaky, A. (1996) Mate choice, martial success, and reproduction in a modern society. Ethol. Sociobiol. 17, 17–35
Lattice Boltzmann simulation of snow crystal growth in clouds

[1] The Lattice Boltzmann (LB) method can be used to simulate aspects of chemical reactions such as mineral precipitation from a fluid phase or condensation from a vapor phase. The LB method has the advantage of allowing the shape of the condensing phase to evolve depending on local conditions rather than being specified, so that the controls on condensed phase grain shape can be studied simultaneously with the controls on chemical composition and growth rate. We have used the LB approach to simulate the growth of ice crystals from water vapor-oversaturated air as a first step in developing methods for treating more complex chemical reaction problems, including isotopic effects. The formation of ice crystals (i.e., snow) in air is a classic problem in diffusion-limited crystal growth. There are many complexities, but the process is attractive for modeling purposes because it involves only one chemical component and there is abundant information on reaction kinetics and the relationships between crystal morphology and growth conditions. In this paper we describe the LB approach used, and address strategies for properly conserving mass at a surface of a growing “crystal,” the scaling of the calculations to the actual physical problem, and the conditions for growth of dendritic versus compact crystals.
An Analysis of the Coal Mining Industry in the United States

The coal mining industry is a vital economic sector for many countries including the United States (US). Coal is the primary fuel for electricity generation in the US and it is the cheapest and most abundant source of energy. The production of coal increased significantly from 573 million tonnes in 1978 to nearly 1.1 billion tonnes in 2006. This paper provides an overview of coal reserves in the US and an analysis of the coal industry's historical data with respect to the number of mines, total production, productivity, the number of employees, and safety and environmental records. It then discusses the issues challenging the coal industry regarding its future, including accurate estimation of reserves, regulatory limitation on carbon dioxide emissions, mine workers' safety, mine productivity, and resource optimization, as well as current efforts to address them.
Geysering Generated by Large Air Pockets Released through Water-Filled Ventilation Shafts

One potential problem affecting below-grade storm-water storage tunnels is the occurrence of geysering, which is defined as the return of conveyed water to grade. Most investigations to date have linked this occurrence with inertial oscillation of the water within vertical shafts. Another mechanism that can lead to geysering is the release of air and water through ventilation towers. This study presents a systematic investigation on geysering caused by the release of large air pockets through partially water-filled ventilation towers. Parameters considered in the study included the water level in the ventilation tower, air-phase pressure head, and ventilation tower diameter. An important parameter in geysering was the diameter of the ventilation tower. A simplified numerical model was developed to simulate the experiments; it was able to reproduce the essential features of the experiments.
TNF- and Cancer Therapy-Induced Apoptosis: Potentiation by Inhibition of NF-κB

Many cells are resistant to stimuli that can induce apoptosis, but the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. The activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) by tumor necrosis factor (TNF), ionizing radiation, or daunorubicin (a cancer chemotherapeutic compound), was found to protect from cell killing. Inhibition of NF-kappaB nuclear translocation enhanced apoptotic killing by these reagents but not by apoptotic stimuli that do not activate NF-kappaB. These results provide a mechanism of cellular resistance to killing by some apoptotic reagents, offer insight into a new role for NF-kappaB, and have potential for improvement of the efficacy of cancer therapies.