cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant docetaxel/estramustine prior to radical prostatectomy or external beam radiotherapy in high risk localized prostate cancer: a phase II trial.

Abstract Background Patients with locally advanced or organ confined, high risk, prostate cancer are at significant risk of having disease recurrence despite definitive local therapy. We evaluated the 2-year progression-free survival of subjects treated with chemotherapy administered prior to definitive therapy with surgery or radiation. Patients and methods Patients ( n = 24) with locally advanced and high risk localized prostate cancer were treated with neoadjuvant docetaxel 36 mg/m2 i.v. weekly for 3 weeks and estramustine 140 mg orally 3 times daily for 3 consecutive days every 28 days prior to definitive treatment with prostatectomy or radiation. Results All evaluable patients, except 1, completed the proposed cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with minimal dose reductions or delays. Of the 22 evaluable patients, 12 underwent radical prostatectomy and 10 underwent external beam radiation therapy. Twenty-one of 22 patients achieved a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) reduction > 25%. There were no pathologic complete responses. With a median follow-up of 24 months, the 2-year progression-free survival was 45%. Conclusions Our findings support the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with men with high risk, locally advanced prostate adenocarcinoma, although the relative contributions of androgen deprivation therapy and docetaxel cannot be determined. The effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in preventing prostate cancer relapses should be studied in a randomized trial.
Penile purpura as a manifestation of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus.

: Heightened public and professional awareness of the sexual abuse of children demands that physicians be able to distinguish lesions associated wtth sexual abuse from those caused by primary skin disor-ders. Purpura to an occasional manifestation of pediatric lichen aderosus et atrophicus (LSA), especially when the vulva is affected. We report a 12-year-old boy with penile purpura that occasioned a consideration of sexual abuse but proved to be due to LSA.
Constraints in naming parts of the Tree of Life

There are now overlapping codes of nomenclature that govern some of the same names of biological taxa. The International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) uses the non-evolutionary concept of a "type species" to fix the names of animal taxa to particular ranks in the nomenclatural hierarchy. The PhyloCode, in contrast, uses phylogenetic definitions for supraspecific taxa at any hierarchical level within the Tree of Life (without associating the names to particular ranks), but does not deal with the names of species. Thus, biologists who develop classifications of animals need to use both systems of nomenclature, or else operate without formal rules for the names of some taxa (either species or many monophyletic groups). In addition, the ICZN does not permit the unique naming of many taxa that are considered to be between the ranks of genus and species. Hillis and Wilcox [Hillis, D.M., Wilcox, T.P., 2005. Phylogeny of the New World true frogs (Rana). Mol. Phylogenet. Evol. 34, 299-314] provided recommendations for the classification of New World true frogs that utilized the ICZN to provide names for species, and the PhyloCode to provide names for supraspecific taxa. Nonetheless, they created new taxon names that followed both sets of rules, to avoid conflicting classifications. They also recommended that established names for both species and clades be used whenever possible, to stabilize the names of both species and clades under either set of rules, and to avoid conflicting nomenclatures. Dubois [Dubois, A., 2006. Naming taxa from cladograms: a cautionary tale. Mol. Phylogenet. Evol., 42, 317-330] objected to these principles, and argued that the names provided by Hillis and Wilcox [Hillis, D.M., Wilcox, T.P., 2005. Phylogeny of the New World true frogs (Rana). Mol. Phylogenet. Evol. 34, 299-314] are unavailable under the ICZN, and that the two nomenclatural systems are incompatible. Here, I argue that he is incorrect in these assertions, and present arguments for retaining the established names of New World true frogs, which are largely compatible under both sets of nomenclatural rules.
Liquid Nitrogen Tests of a Torus Coil for the Jefferson Lab 12-GeV Accelerator Upgrade

A magnet system consisting of six superconducting trapezoidal racetrack-type coils is being built for the Jefferson Lab 12-GeV accelerator upgrade project. The magnet coils are wound with Superconducting Super Collider-36 NbTi strand Rutherford cable soldered into a copper channel. Each superconducting toroidal coil is force cooled by liquid helium, which circulates in a tube that is in good thermal contact with the inside of the coil. Thin copper sheets are soldered to the helium cooling tube and enclose the superconducting coil, providing cooling to the rest of the coil pack. As part of a rigorous risk mitigation exercise, each of the six coils is cooled with liquid nitrogen (LN2) to 80 K to validate predicted thermal stresses, verify the robustness and integrity of electrical insulation, and evaluate the efficacy of the employed conduction cooling method. This paper describes the test setup, the tests performed, and the findings.
System Design and Calibration of a Continuous Flow Apparatus for Kinetic Studies

A heat exchange apparatus is described to determine reaction kinetics of fluid food constituents during continuous flow. During operation fluids are exposed to well defined thermal treatments. The thermal evaluation method associated with the apparatus allows a variety of effects to be examined rapidly (i.e. pH, supporting media, level of concentration, temperature range etc.). In addition, kinetic data generation at processing conditions simulating actual conditions (velocities, Reynolds numbers, Nusselt numbers, shear stress at the wall, etc.) is possible. Description of the design and calibration procedure is given. Design flexibility allows for constituent examination at any time-temperature range useful to the food processor.
NO2 EXPOSURE FROM VEHICLES AND GAS STOVES

Estimates of health impacts of reduced NOx emissions from vehicles in the Chicago area show that transportation policy has little power to affect total exposure to NO2. Even large decreases in outdoor NO2 concentrations may only produce small decreases in health effects attributable to NO2 exposure. Daily histories of exposure to NO2 were constructed, based on assumptions about time spent at home, commuting, shopping, and at work. Outdoor NO2 concentrations were estimated using EPA's Climatological Dispersion Model (CDM); concentrations in vehicles were estimated from assumptions about relationships among region‐average concentrations, concentrations on highways, and inside: outside concentration ratios in vehicles. Indoor concentrations were estimated from assumptions about infiltration rates and emissions from gas cooking stoves in homes. The resulting exposures for different commuting patterns show that exposures in homes having gas stoves dominate total daily exposure.
On minimal vanishing algebras

I. Let G be a locally compact group with left invariant Haar measure m. For any measurable subset S of G, define Ls to be the closed subspace of LI(G) consisting of all functions which vanish (a. e.) on the complement of S. When L s forms an algebra, it is called a vanishing algebra. A vanishing algebra L s is said to be minimal if L s ~ 0 and if, whenever L T is a vanishing algebra such that L r c Ls, then L r = L s or L r --~ 0. In this note we shall prove the following theorems.
The Combined Effects of the Expansion of Primary Health Care and Conditional Cash Transfers on Infant Mortality in Brazil, 1998–2010

Objectives. I examined the combined effects of access to primary care through the Family Health Program (FHP) and conditional cash transfers from the Bolsa Familia Program (BFP) on postneonatal infant mortality (PNIM) in Brazil.Methods. I employed longitudinal ecological analysis using panel data from 4583 Brazilian municipalities from 1998 to 2010, totaling 54 253 observations. I estimated fixed-effects ordinary least squares regressions models with PNIM rate as the dependent variable and FHP, BFP, and their interactions as the main independent variables of interest.Results. The association of higher FHP coverage with lower PNIM became stronger as BFP coverage increased. At the means of all other variables, when BFP coverage was 25%, predicted PNIM was 5.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.95, 5.53) for FHP coverage = 0% and 3.54 (95% CI = 2.77, 4.31) for FHP coverage = 100%. When BFP coverage was 60%, predicted PNIM was 4.65 (95% CI = 4.36, 4.94) when FHP coverage = 0% and 1.38 (95% CI = 0.88, 1.89) wh...
Treatment of infected tunneled venous access hemodialysis catheters with guidewire exchange

Treatment of infected tunneled venous access hemodialysis catheters with guidewire exchange. Cuffed venous access catheters have become commonplace for hemodialysis access. The major complications of these catheters are catheter thrombosis, catheter fibrin sheathing and infection. When catheter associated bacteremia occurs treatment with antimicrobial therapy alone has been unsuccessful in providing acceptable cure rates. Failed antimicrobial therapy exposes the patient to the risks of prolonged bacteremia, while the alternative, catheter replacement at a new site can lead to central venous stenosis and compromise future long-term upper extremity access. Catheter guidewire exchange when the tunnel tract is clinically not infected theoretically allows the preservation of future access sites and yields a higher treatment success rate while avoiding temporary non-cuffed access placement. We report a series of 23 cases of hemodialysis patients with tunneled cuffed catheters and bacteremia related to the catheter who were treated with the exchange of a new catheter over a guidewire combined with three weeks of systemic antibiotics. Patients eligible for the study required no evidence of tunnel tract infection and defervescence within 48 hours of antimicrobial therapy. Technique failure was defined as repeat infection from any organism within 90 days of catheter exchange. Four patients (18%) redeveloped bacteremia within 90 days of the exchange. The bacteremias developed at 4, 19, 63 and at 74 days days after the exchange. Guidewire exchange in combination with intravenous antibiotics in cases of catheter related bacteremia has an acceptable rate of treatment success and is a viable treatment option in a carefully selected patient population.
Testing knowledge of human gross anatomy in medical school: An applied contextual‐learning theory method

The traditional gross anatomy laboratory experience, with modifications in evaluations that we outline later, meets the criteria of contextual-learning theory, expands the repertoire of core objectives we identify for our students, and may increase the likelihood of cognitive permanence of anatomical data. Our subjects included approximately 54 first-year medical students from each of three sequential class years (1996, 1997, 1998). As an alternative to more typical written and practical exams, examinations in a major portion of our gross anatomy program consist of two approximately 30 minute oral expositions by each student to his or her peers and a faculty member. Students demonstrate specific detail on cadaver, x-ray, cross sections, or a model. Clinical applications, spatial relationships, nomenclature, and functions are strongly emphasized. The results of this teaching approach to the utilization of anatomical knowledge in clinical situations requires further assessment; however, new attributes have been afforded our students with implementation of the present program: First, students learn anatomical detail equally well as the students of the more traditional system (based on board exam results). Second, students who completed the program indicate that this approach provides a useful simulation of what is expected later in their training. Third, students gradually gain confidence in verbal presentation, they demonstrate cognitive synthesis of separate conceptual issues, they retain information, and they are quite visibly more enthusiastic about anatomy and its importance in medicine. Our program demonstrates that the learning of applicable human anatomy is facilitated in a contextual-learning environment. Moreover, by learning anatomy in this way, other equally beneficial attributes are afforded the medical student, including, but not limited to, increases in communication skills, confidence in verbal presentation, synthesis of anatomical concepts, appreciation of the clinical importance of anatomy, and the general development of professionalism. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Analytical description of a Fabry-Perot spectrometer. 4: Signal noise limitations in data retrieval; winds, temperature, and emission rate

A quantitative investigation of the effects of noise inherent in the signal received by the detector of a Fabry-Perot spectrometer has been carried out in detail. The study also includes the effects of the instrumental profile width and the presence of unwanted continuum radiation in the signal, such as background radiation and detector dark current. The results show the spectrum of the noise in the transform plane to have a quantitative description in terms of the instrumental and line shapes as well as the signal strength, or emission rate, of both the line profile and the unwanted radiation. The magnitude and shape of this noise spectrum not only limits in a known quantitative manner the amount of useful information available from a given measured profile, but it also provides information on the profile itself, thus allowing for more information to be obtained from the measurement than would otherwise be possible. A detailed example is given for the retrieval of winds, temperature, and emission rate from line profile measurements, and it is quantitatively shown how the (noise) limited information available from a measured profile appears as uncertainties of determination. These uncertainties are shown to be dependent on the signal strength, more correctly the noise inherent in this signal, as well as the shapes and relative widths of the line and instrumental profiles, with the temperature uncertainty showing the most sensitivity to these factors. Although in some cases the results are qualitatively obvious, their quantitative nature allows the design of experiments for least uncertainty and/or define the limitations inherent in such experiments.
Further observations on the comparative antirachitic value of crystalline vitamin D administered in milk, corn oil, or in propylene glycol

Summary In order to determine the prophylactic dosage of crystalline vitamin D, as well as the influence of the menstruum on the effectiveness of this antirachitic substance, 441 young infants were given, at the beginning of the winter, 145, 290, or 1,450 U.S.P. X (revised, 1934) units of crystalline vitamin D incorporated in 28 ounces of milk, in 7 drops of corn oil, or in 7 drops of propylene glycol. At the end of the winter the incidence of rickets among these various groups of infants was determined by roentgenologic examination of the wrists. The results of this investigation demonstrated that in infants receiving crystalline vitamin D in the daily ration of milk, rickets developed less frequently than in those receiving a comparable number of units of this antirachitic agent in 7 drops of corn oil or of propylene glycol. An explanation was thus offered for the greater effectiveness, from the standpoint of rat units, of irradiated milk and yeast milk, as compared with viosterol. It was found that 1,450 units of crystalline vitamin D in oil daily protected 41 of 42 infants against rickets, and this may be regarded as a satisfactory protective dose. The addition of 332 U.S.P. units of crystalline vitamin D to the quart of milk provided a highly satisfactory antirachitic milk inasmuch as only 1 of 51 infants receiving milk of this unitage developed rickets.
Reversible pH Changes in Cells of Chlamydomonas reinhardi Resulting from CO2 Fixation in the Light and Its Evolution in the Dark

Illumination of a suspension of Chlamydomonas reinhardi causes an increase in the pH of the medium which is reversed in the dark. This pH change is a manifestation of CO(2) uptake in the light and its evolution in the dark. Simultaneous measurements of pH changes and oxygen evolution reveal that the photosynthetic coefficient approaches one.Intact cells of F-60, a mutant strain of C. reinhardi that lacks an active phosphoribulokinase, do not exhibit the light-dependent pH increase or oxygen evolution. However, chloroplast fragments prepared from the cells of the mutant strain exhibit a normal "proton pump" activity.The light-dependent pH increase shown by intact cells can be inhibited by KCN, by uncouplers of photosynthetic phosphorylation, and by Dio-9. It is markedly increased upon the addition of potassium bicarbonate, and all inhibitors tested inhibit the pH increase in both the presence and absence of potassium bicarbonate.The results of the present work negate the conclusion of other workers that the light-dependent pH changes in intact cells of C. reinhardi (and probably in other algae as well) are due to the operation of the "proton pump."
Polygon construction to investigate melting in two-dimensional strongly coupled dusty plasma

The polygon construction method of Glaser and Clark is used to characterize melting and crystallization in a two-dimensional (2D) strongly coupled dusty plasma. Using particle positions measured by video microscopy, bonds are identified by triangulation, and unusually long bonds are deleted. The resulting polygons have three or more sides. Geometrical defects, which are polygons with more than three sides, are found to proliferate during melting. Pentagons are found in liquids, where they tend to cluster with other pentagons. Quadrilaterals are a less severe defect, so that disorder can be characterized by the ratio of quadrilaterals to pentagons. This ratio is found to be less in a liquid than in a solid or a superheated solid. Another measure of disorder is the abundance of different kinds of vertices, according to the type of polygons that adjoin there. Unexpectedly, spikes are observed in the abundance of certain vertex types during rapid temperature changes. Hysteresis, revealed by a plot of a disorder parameter vs temperature, is examined to study sudden heating. The hysteresis diagram also reveals features suggesting a possibility of latent heat in the melting and rapid cooling processes.
Wisconsin card sorting test dimensions in schizophrenia: Factorial, predictive, and divergent validity

This study explored the factor structure of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Scores from 197 participants with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were subjected to an exploratory factor analysis that yielded three factors: Perseveration, Nonperseverative Error, and Inefficient Sorting. Comparison with two previous factor analyses revealed remarkable factorial invariance. Correlations with subject and illness characteristics, symptom dimensions, and work performance demonstrated predictive and divergent validity for the three factors. However, a representative item from each factor yielded similar correlations with very little loss of power suggesting that the factors are composed of highly redundant items. When data reduction is necessary, schizophrenia researchers are justified in using three variables: perseverative error, nonperseverative error, and failure to maintain set, to represent WCST performance.
IL-1 receptor blockade prevents fetal cortical brain injury but not preterm birth in a mouse model of inflammation-induced preterm birth and perinatal brain injury.

Problem Exposure to intrauterine inflammation, associated with preterm birth, has been linked to a devastating spectrum of neurobehavioral disorders. Mechanisms of this injury are unknown. Using a mouse model of intrauterine inflammation, we have observed a disruption of fetal neuronal morphology along with a marked elevation of interleukin (IL)-1β in the fetal brain and placenta. In this study, we hypothesized that IL-1 plays a key role in perinatal brain injury. Method of study Utilizing a mouse model of inflammation-induced preterm birth, we investigated the role of IL-1 in fetal cortical injury as well as preterm birth. In these studies, dams received systemic treatment with IL-1 receptor antagonist prior to administration of intrauterine inflammation. Results Systemic maternal antagonism of IL-1 improved fetal cortical neuronal injury associated with the exposure to intrauterine inflammation, without affecting the phenotype of preterm birth. IL-1 receptor antagonist blocked activation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in perinatal cortex, a key enzyme implicated in neurotoxicity. Conclusion Our data suggest that fetal cortical brain injury and preterm birth may occur by divergent mechanisms. Furthermore, our studies indicate maternal administration of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) blocked neuronal nitric oxide synthase activation observed in the brain cortex and, we speculate, that this alteration in activation leads to demonstrated decreased neurotoxicity.
Accurate DNA fragment sizing by capillary electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescence array for detection of sequence specificity of DNA damage.

Cancer has been linked to mutations within specific codons in genes that code for critical biomolecules such as tumor suppressor proteins (e.g., p53). Activated metabolites like benzo[a]pyrenediol epoxide act on preferred nucleotide sequences of DNA, and such mutations have been identified in cancers. DNA reaction site identification depends on accurate analysis of oligonucleotide fragment sizes produced by strand breakage at the damaged sites. Herein, we report a new method for DNA fragment sizing using capillary electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescence detection (CE-LIF). Absolute sizing accuracy and speed are achieved by utilizing a CE-LIF array with two-color fluorescence detection. Accuracy depends on correcting results with commercial standards by referring them to primary standards with the same sequences and identical labels as sample fragments. The method is demonstrated by detection of a [...GGCGCGCAG...] G reaction site for styrene oxide on an oligonucleotide representing the CYP1B1 gene...
Pattern recognition: neural networks in perspective

Invariant pattern recognition will be a problem facing neural networks for some time, and the challenge is to overcome the limitation of Hamming distance generalization. Four representative architectures that are able to generalize are reviewed. The architectures are the backpropagation network, the ART architecture, the dynamic link architecture, and associate memories. Image representation, segmentation, and invariance are discussed. >
Decreased Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) and Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) in Individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Introduction: There is support for the role of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the etiology of mood disorders. Recent research has shown that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) modulates GABAergic inhibition and seizure susceptibility. This study was designed to determine and correlate plasma levels of HGF and GABA as well as symptom severity in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Subjects and methods: Plasma from 15 individuals with OCD (9 males, 6 females;, mean age 38.7 years) and 17 neurotypical controls (10 males, 7 females; mean age 35.2 years) was assessed for HGF, GABA, urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), and urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) concentration using enzyme-linked immunosorbest assays ELISAs. Symptom severity was assessed in these OCD individuals and compared with HGF and GABA concentrations. Results: In this preliminary study, individuals with OCD had significantly decreased HGF levels, decreased plasma levels of GABA and decreased uPA. We found that both uPA and uPAR levels correlate with HGF. Both low uPA and low uPAR levels correlate with high symptom severity in individuals with OCD. Low GABA levels in OCD individuals also correlate with high symptom severity. Discussion: These results demonstrate a preliminary association between HGF, GABA, uPA levels, and OCD and suggest that plasma GABA and uPA levels are related to symptom severity in individuals with OCD.
Quality of video streaming in 38 GHz millimetre-wave heterogeneous cellular networks

The quality of video streaming in 38 GHz millimetre-wave heterogeneous main-cell and small-cell networks in terms of signal-to-interference-noise ratio is analysed. According to numerical simulation results, the impacts of interference from small-cells on the quality of video streaming in main-cells are numerically measured and analysed.
Radioactive labeling of the Golgi apparatus by micro-injection of individual amebae.

Abstract Individual amebae were injected with a solution of 3H-mannose or 3H-galactose. In electron microscope radioautographs prepared at intervals between 30 min and 2 h after the injection, silver grains were heavily concentrated over the Golgi apparatus. The results show that it is feasible to label amebae with radioactive precursors by micro-injection of single cells. These results also suggest that the Golgi apparatus plays a role in assembly of a carbohydrate-rich substance, possibly part of the ameba surface coat.
Craniopharyngiomas in children

Forty-three children with craniopharyngiomas were operated upon at The Neurological Institute of New York between 1952 and 1977. The removal was thought to be total in 14 children and subtotal in 20, and cyst aspiration/biopsy was performed in 9 cases. Radiation was given as part of the initial therapy in 6 children after subtotal removal and to 8 others after aspiration/biopsy. There was 1 postoperative death. All children with tumors thought to have been removed totally are alive. The 10-year actuarial survival rates are 52% for subtotal removal alone and 87% for subtotal removal plus radiation. Tumors have recurred by 10 years in half of those thought to be totally removed, in more than 90% of those subtotally removed, and in less than 25% of those at risk after subtotal removal and radiation therapy. Tumors recurred in 22 children, and 17 underwent reoperation. Total removal was obtained in 4 cases, and 5 had radiation after subtotal removal. Radiotherapy alone was used in 2 cases. Recurrences usually occurred within 2 years. However, after "total" removal recurrences were quite delayed. Our data indicate that total removal allows excellent survival rates and that some of these children are potentially cured. The attempt at total removal did not inflict a severe hypothalamic or visual burden on these children. Where total removal is not possible, further therapy, either radiation or reoperation, will be required. Radiation dramatically decreased recurrence and improved survival after subtotal removal.
Transient velocity measurements in a turbomachine with independently rotating components

A method was developed for burst type laser velocimeter systems to be used for the highly unsteady but periodic velocity fields found in multi-component turbomachines, in which the components rotate at different speeds. Velocity signals are measured in the stationary frame, translated into the rotating frame, and organized by the relative angular positions of all independent components of the turbomachine. This method requires the angular position of all rotating components of the turbomachine to be measured at the instant a velocity signal is processed by the LV system. Because the flow field is periodic, large sample sizes can be obtained for every instantaneous registration of the components of the turbomachine. By properly 'sorting' the recorded data, one is able to correlate unsteady interaction of two or more components. The method was applied to an automotive torque converter turbine inlet. A torque converter has three components that rotate at different speeds: pump, turbine, and stator. Tests were run for a turbine speed of 881 rpm and a pump speed of 1100 rpm. Results from the tests were used to produce a 'movie' with 37 'frames' of the time dependent three- directional velocity vector fields at a rotating turbine inlet passage as the upstream pump blade passed. A strong influence of the pump on the turbine inlet velocity field is shown. Namely, the jet-wake region generated by the pump is identified as an unsteady inlet condition to the turbine.
The chemistry of palladium complexes: VI. Studies on the palladium(II)-catalyzed decomposition of vinyl acetate☆

Abstract The kinetics and mechanism of the palladium(II)-catalyzed decomposition of vinyl acetate to give acetaldehyde and acetic anhydride were studied. The experiments were performed in acetic acid in the presence and absence of excess chloride, nitrile, and water, which served either as promoters or inhibitors for the decomposition reaction. Rate constants are plotted and tabulated for a variety of reaction conditions and a mechanism that is supported by deuterium studies is proposed.
Large-area transition radiation detectors for cosmic-ray observations in space

The characteristic dependence of x-ray transition radiation on the Lorentz factor of the parent particle can be utilized in cosmic-ray observations on balloons or in space in order to discriminate between relativistic electrons and hadrons, or to determine the energy spectra of heavy cosmic-ray nuclei at very high energies. To obtain statistically meaningful results, exposure factors of the instruments of the order of 100 - 1000 m2sr days are essential. While the intrinsic weight of transition radiation detectors is low, this requires novel approaches and precludes the use of heavy pressurized containers for the instrument. We have developed a system using large arrays of xenon filled proportional tubes as detectors which can operate in a zero pressure environment. We shall discuss this design and present results from prototype evaluations. Finally, we shall describe the capabilities of a practical detector system that will measure the elemental composition and individual energy spectra of heavy cosmic ray nuclei up to energies around 1015 eV.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Exploratory results for a mission specialist interface in micro unmanned aerial systems

This paper presents a human-robot interaction (HRI) exploratory study of a dedicated Mission Specialist interface for micro unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Current HRI findings from the micro UAS literature suggest that a Mission Specialist role requires a small, mobile, and visual interface that is dedicated and software-based. A literature survey of humanrobot team modeling, human-machine interaction technologies, and interaction principles applicable to micro UAS, resulted in an identified HRI investigation framework, five synthesized design guidelines, and a system architecture for a dedicated Mission Specialist interface. The interface was implemented and evaluated through an exploratory field study involving 16 specialized emergency responders. Observations from the study suggested that with refinements, a dedicated Mission Specialist interface could be a useful tool for future HRI studies to explore role performance in micro UAS.
Targeted tailored management of the breast cancer patient at risk for harboring a germline mutation-current trends affecting the selection of patients considering surgical prophylaxis for breast cancer.

n Abstract: Recent reports have documented the increasing use of mastectomy in women with breast cancer otherwise amenable to breast conservation. Similarly, other reports document an increase in the number of women undergoing contra-lateral prophylactic mastectomy for a single unilateral breast cancer. These trends are abetted by increasing use of MRI, inadequate risk counseling, and patient fear. Adequate and reliable risk assessment and genetic counseling are indispensable for the appropriate and personalized treatment of these individuals. In all of these instances, such counseling should be instituted well before the patients are submitted to any surgical intervention. An algorithm is presented which permits the orderly selection of patients who may benefit from such aggressive surgical intervention. n
Comparison of adjusted and unadjusted marginal probabilities for estimating binomial parameters in observational studies

In this study, we demonstrate how generalized propensity score estimators (Imbens’ weighted estimator, the propensity score weighted estimator and the generalized doubly robust estimator) can be used to calculate the adjusted marginal probabilities for estimating the three common binomial parameters: the risk difference (RD), the relative risk (RR), and the odds ratio (OR). We further conduct a simulation study to compare the estimated RD, RR, and OR using the adjusted and the unadjusted marginal probabilities in terms of the bias and mean-squared error (MSE). Although there is no clear winner in terms of the MSE for estimating RD, RR, and OR, simulation results surprisingly show thatthe unadjusted marginal probabilities produce the smallest bias compared with the adjusted marginal probabilities in most of the estimates. Hence, in conclusion, we recommend using the unadjusted marginal probabilities to estimate RD, RR, and OR, in practice.
A High-Efficiency Multidetector System for Tumor Scanning

A high-efficiency detector system developed especially for medical imaging has three speciall cut Ge(Li) coaxial detectors (total volume 249 cm3). At 122 keV, the peak efficiency is 93% of that of a 7.6 × 7.6 cm NaI (T1) detector. Degradation of the paralleled energy resolution is avoided and resolution is improved by 35% over that of conventional output-summing techniques by gating the detector outputs. In effect this multiplexes them to a single line output.
Optical resolution of 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(9-phenanthryl)ethanol via enzymatic alcoholysis of its activated ester

Practical lipase LIP (Pseudomonas aeruginosa)-catalyzed optical resolution of 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(9-phenanthryl)ethanol (TFPE), which is a sterically hindered secondary alcohol, has been performed. The method was used effectively for the first enzymatic preparation of both enantiomers of TFPE via lipase-catalyzed enantioselective alcoholysis of its chloroacetate ester. A simple procedure was developed for separating the S-alcohol product from the unreactive R-chloroacetate ester and for hydrolyzing the latter to obtain the R-alcohol. Using a similar procedure, the optical resolution of 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(1-naphthyl)ethanol (TFNE) was achieved as well.
The regional effects of CO2 and landscape change using a coupled plant and meteorological model

A meteorological model, the Regional Atmospheric Modelling System (RAMS), and a plant model, the General Energy and Mass Transfer Model (GEMTM), are coupled in this study. The integrated modelling system was used to investigate regional weather conditions in the central grasslands of the USA for three experimental scenarios: d land cover is changed from current to potential vegetation; d radiative forcing is changed from 1 3 CO2 to 2 3 CO2 ;a nd d biological CO2 partial pressures are doubled. Results indicate that the biological effect of enriched CO2, and of land-use change exhibit dominant effects on regional meteorological and biological fields, which were observed for daily to seasonal time scales and grid to regional spatial scales. Simulated radiation impacts of 2 3 CO2 were minimal, with interactive effects between the three experimental scenarios as large as the radiational impact alone. Model results highlight the importance of including 2 3 CO2 biological effects when simulating possible future changes in regional weather.
In vitro inhibition of the metabolism and mutagenicity of benzo(a)pyrene and benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol by naphthazarin and other naphthol derivatives.

Abstract Among naphthol derivatives tested in the Ames assay, 5,8-dihydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone or naphthazarin was found to be the most effective inhibitor of benzo(a)pyrene mutagenicity. The inhibitory activity is due in part to the redox cycling of naphthazarin with the concommitant transfer of reducing equivalents from NADPH to molecular oxygen, thus diverting electrons from cytochrome P-450 enzymes. Metabolite separations showed a decrease in microsomal metabolism of benzo(a)pyrene and of benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol upon addition of naphthazarin. Since both NADP and dicoumarol inhibited the naphthazarin-stimulated non-stoichiometric consumption of NADPH and oxygen then naphthazarin redox cycling probably involves both DT-diaphorase and NADPH cytochrome P-450 reductase.
Axonal projections and synapses from the supratrigeminal region to hypoglossal motoneurons in the rat.

Abstract Neural circuits from the supratrigeminal region (Vsup) to the hypoglossal motor nucleus were studied in rats using anterograde and retrograde neuroanatomical tracing methodologies. Iontophoretic injection of 10% biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) unilaterally into the Vsup anterogradely labeled axons and axon terminals bilaterally in the hypoglossal nucleus (XII) as well as other regions of the brainstem. In the ipsilateral XII, the highest density of BDA labeling was found in the dorsal compartment and the ventromedial subcompartment of the ventral compartment, where BDA labeling formed a dense, patchy distribution. Microinjection of 20% horseradish peroxidase (HRP) ipsilaterally or bilaterally into the tongue resulted in retrograde labeling of XII motoneurons confined to the dorsal and ventral compartments of the hypoglossal motor nucleus. Under light microscopical examination, BDA-labeled terminals were observed closely apposing the somata and primary dendrites of HRP-labeled hypoglossal motoneurons. Two hundred and sixty-five of these BDA-labeled terminals were examined at the ultrastructural level. One hundred and twelve BDA-labeled axon terminals were observed synapsing with either the somata (39%, 44/112) or the large or medium-size dendrites (61%, 68/112) of retrogradely labeled hypoglossal motoneurons. Axon terminals containing spherical vesicles (S-type) formed asymmetric synapses with HRP-labeled hypoglossal motoneuron dendrites. In contrast to this, F F -type axon terminals, containing flattened vesicles, formed symmetric synapses with both the somata and dendrites of HRP-labeled hypoglossal motoneurons with a preponderance of the contacts on their somata. Axon terminals containing pleomorphic vesicles (F P -type) were noted forming both symmetric and asymmetric synapses with HRP-labeled hypoglossal motoneuron somata and dendrites. The present study provides anatomical evidence of neuronal projections and synaptic connections from the supratrigeminal region to hypoglossal motoneurons. These data suggest that the supratrigeminal region, as one of the premotor neuronal pools of the hypoglossal nucleus, may coordinate and modulate the activity of tongue muscles during oral motor behaviors.
Risk Factors, Causes, and the Economic Implications of Unplanned Readmissions Following Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract In order to identify risk factors for readmissions following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and the causes and financial implications of such readmissions, we analyzed clinical and administrative data on 1583 consecutive primary THAs performed at a single institution. The 30-day readmission rate was 6.51%. Increased age, length of stay, and body mass index were associated with significantly higher readmission rates. The most common re-admitting diagnoses were deep infection, pain, and hematoma. Average profit was lower for episodes of care with readmissions ($1548 vs. $2872, P =0.028). If Medicare stops reimbursing for THA readmissions, the institution under review would sustain an average net loss of $11,494 for episodes of care with readmissions and would need to maintain readmission rates below 23.6% in order to remain profitable.
PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) activation following brain ischemia is independent of unfolded nascent proteins

Transient global brain ischemia results in an immediate inhibition of protein translation upon reperfusion. During early brain reperfusion protein synthesis is inhibited by alpha subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2alpha) phosphorylation by the PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK). Normally, PERK is held in an inactive, monomeric state by the binding of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone GRP78 to the lumenal end of PERK. The prevailing view is that ER stress leads to the accumulation of unfolded proteins in the ER lumen. GRP78 dissociates from PERK to bind these accumulated unfolded proteins, leading to PERK activation, phosphorylation of eIF2alpha, and inhibition of translation. To determine if an increase in unfolded nascent proteins following transient brain ischemia contributes to PERK activation, protein synthesis was blocked by intracerebral injection of anisomycin prior to induction of ischemia. Anisomycin inhibited protein synthesis by over 99% and reduced newly synthesized proteins in the ER to approximately 20% of controls. With an ER nearly devoid of newly synthesized proteins, PERK was still activated and was able to phosphorylate eIF2alpha in CA1 neurons during reperfusion. These data strongly argue that PERK activation is independent of the large increase in unfolded nascent proteins within the ER following transient global brain ischemia.
Mouse allergen exposure and mouse skin test sensitivity in suburban, middle-class children with asthma☆

Abstract Background Exposure to mouse allergen is prevalent in inner-city homes and is associated with an increased risk of mouse skin test sensitivity in inner-city children with asthma. Objective To determine the distribution of mouse allergen and its relationship to mouse skin test sensitivity in a primarily suburban, middle-class population of asthmatic children. Methods Children with asthma, 6 to 17 years old, were recruited from 3 pediatric practices located in counties surrounding the city of Baltimore and from 1 practice located within the city limits. Participants underwent skin prick testing and completed a baseline questionnaire. Their homes were inspected, and settled dust samples were collected for allergen analysis. Results Two hundred fifty-seven of 335 (76.7%) participants resided outside the city, and 53.7% had annual incomes >$50,000. Mouse allergen was detected in 74.9% of bedrooms, and 13.1% were sensitized to mouse. Lower maternal education (odds ratio [OR], 2.17; 95% CI, 1.28-3.67), city residence (OR, 5.39; 95% CI, 2.23-13.02), and higher bedroom cockroach allergen levels (OR, 9.61; 95% CI, 1.17-79.03) were independent predictors of high bedroom mouse allergen. The risk of mouse skin test sensitivity increased with increasing bedroom Mus m 1 exposure (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.04-1.96, with each increase in quartile), and dog skin test sensitivity was a strong independent predictor of mouse skin test sensitivity (OR, 7.23; 95% CI, 3.03-17.22). Conclusion Mouse allergen exposure is common among suburban, middle-class asthmatic children. Increasing bedroom levels of Mus m 1 and dog skin test sensitivity are risk factors for mouse skin test sensitivity.
A flight simulator for general anesthesia training

Abstract A simulator of general anesthesia is described. It consists of an integrated set of physiologic computer models and a graphics display. The model predicts many of the physiologic and pharmacodynamic changes associated with general anesthesia. It is a multiple model consisting of circulatory, respiratory, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic models and their interactions. The model can account for many pathologic states of the cardiorespiratory system plus poor renal and hepatic function. Both intravenous and inhalation agents are included. Examples of its capabilities are presented, including pharmacokinetic changes associated with thiopental administration to a hypovolemic subject, administration of oxygen in several pulmonary pathologic conditions, and a simulation of an induction using fentanyl or thiopental. The model, combined with the graphics interface, becomes a realtime simulator useful for training students and residents.
Special Properties Imparted to the 9-Phosphabicyclo[6.1.0]nonatriene system by a P-(2,4,6-tri-t-butylphenyl) substituent; 17O NMR spectrum of a bicyclic phosphirane oxide

Abstract 9-(2,4,6-Tri-t-butylphenyl)-9-phosphabicyclo[6.1.0]nona-2,4,6-triene gave an observable P-oxide with t-butyl hydroperoxide. Decomposition occurred by expulsion of the phosphorus fragment, possibly as ArPO, rather than by the expected ring expansion to a phosphonin oxide. The 17O NMR shift of 18.0 is the most upfield known for a phosphine oxide.
Frequency Response of Nonproportionally Damped, Lumped Parameter, Linear Dynamic Systems

Modal analysis is used to transform the governing equations of motion to the respective modal coupled equations of motion. The Laplace transform is performed to transfer to the frequency domain. The modal coupling is then analyzed through coupling terms. A criterion in the form of nonproportionality indices is developed, in order to measure the extent of the modal coupling and to predict the error introduced by neglecting this coupling either partially or completely. An attempt to interpret the frequency spectrum of the modal coupling is also made
The use of234Th/238 disequilibrium to examine the fate of particle-reactive species on the Yangtze continental shelf

Measurements of234Th (t1/2 = 24.1d) in water column and seabed samples from an area near the mouth of the Yangtze River (People's Republic of China) provide the following information: (1)|Most of the234Th in waters near the mouth of the Yangtze River is in particulate form, and horizontal transport and sedimentation of234Th-bearing particles dominate the234Th budget in this area. A model incorporating processes in at least two dimensions is required to understand the fate of particle-reactive species on the Yangtze continental shelf. (2)|The residence times of particle-reactive species (with respect to scavenging) range from 0.3 days (nearshore) to 4.0 days (offshore). The residence times (with respect to removal to the seabed) range from 0.5 day (nearshore) to 11.0 days (offshore). (3)|Scavenging residence times for234Th decrease as the concentration of suspended particles increases. The time for removal of234Th to the seabed increases with distance from shore (a variable which integrates such factors as scavenging rate, bathymetry, and frequency of resuspension).
Anesthetic efficacy of lidocaine/meperidine for inferior alveolar nerve blocks.

The authors, using a crossover design, randomly administered, in a single-blind manner, inferior alveolar nerve blocks using 36 mg of lidocaine with 18 μg of epinephrine or a combination of 36 mg of lidocaine with 18 μg epinephrine plus 36 mg meperidine with 18 μg of epinephrine, at 2 separate appointments, to 52 subjects. An electric pulp tester was used to test for anesthesia, in 4-minute cycles for 60 minutes, of the molars, premolars, and central and lateral incisors. Anesthesia was considered successful when 2 consecutive 80 readings were obtained within 15 minutes and the 80 reading was continuously sustained for 60 minutes. Using the lidocaine solution, successful pulpal anesthesia ranged from 8 to 58% from the central incisor to the second molar. Using the lidocaine/meperidine solution, successful pulpal anesthesia ranged from 0 to 17%. There was a significant difference (P < .05) between the lidocaine and lidocaine/meperidine solutions for the lateral incisors through the second molars. We conclude that the addition of meperidine to a standard lidocaine solution does not increase the success of the inferior alveolar nerve block.