cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effects of a Mechanical Thrombolytic Device on Normal Canine Vein Valves

PURPOSE To determine if the Arrow-Trerotola Percutaneous Thrombolytic Device (PTD) causes damage to normal vein valves. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten lateral saphenous veins in five dogs were studied with descending venography with use of a wedge balloon catheter positioned above 48 valves (demonstrating 51 valves) before and after five antegrade passes each with an over-the-wire (0.025-inch), 6.5-F, 9-mm-diameter PTD. Vein diameters were 3.2–11.4 mm (mean, 5.9 mm). Contrast matter was injected at incremental rates from 3 to 15 mL/min during continuous pressure monitoring. Imaging was performed with digital subtraction angiography at a rate of 1 frame/sec. The time to valve reflux was determined by noting the frame at which reflux was first seen through the valve. The time to reflux and pressure required to reflux were compared before and after the PTD passes. All vessels were explanted and evaluated histologically for presence or absence of endothelial loss, thrombus formation, inflammation, or valve degeneration. Four veins in two animals were studied with venography to determine the variability of the venographic method. These veins thrombosed during venography and therefore served as positive pathologic controls. In two animals, one vein was studied with venography and one was not studied to provide pathologic controls. RESULTS With use of two physiologic tests of valve function, 77% of valves had minimal or no damage as assessed by valve competency and 80% had minimal or no damage as demonstrated by the change in the pressures the valve can withstand before reflux. Twenty-six of 51 valves (51%) had no difference or later reflux after PTD use. Thirteen (26%) refluxed 1 second earlier after PTD use and 12 (23%) refluxed ≥2 seconds earlier (six at 2, four at 3, and two at 4). Four of the six valves with more than a 2-second difference in reflux times were in valves with diameters less than 4.2 mm. All these vessels were smaller than 7 mm in diameter. Twenty-one of 48 valve levels (44%) had no difference or sustained higher pressures before reflux after PTD use. Seventeen (36%) had a pressure drop of CONCLUSION The antegrade use of the PTD across normal canine vein valves does not cause physiologically significant damage in valves 7 mm or larger in diameter in this animal model.
Messenger RNA Degradation: Beginning at the End

The mechanisms responsible for mRNA decay in mammalian cells, and how specific sequence elements accelerate decay, are unknown. Recent work indicates that 'ARE' instability elements recruit the exosome to promote rapid 3'-to-5' degradation of the mRNA.
Dimensional analysis in field theory

Dimensional Transmutation (the breakdown of scale invariance in field theories) is reconciled with the commonsense notions of Dimensional Analysis. This makes possible a discussion of the meaning of the Renormalisation Group equations, completely divorced from the technicalities of renormalisation. As illustrations, I describe some very familiar QCD results in these terms.
T lymphocyte differentiation in vitro in ataxia telangiectasia associated with lymphosarcoma.

Summary Markers for T lymphocytes and in vitro differentiation of PBL and marrow cells under the influence of human thymic extract were studied in a patient with ataxia telangiectasia. Certain populations of cells from blood and marrow could be differentiated in normal controls and in our patient by human thymic extract to develop characteristic markers for T lymphocytes.
Inhabiting Soviet Modernity

Books reviewed in this article: Buchli, Victor, An Archaeology of Socialism. Materializing Culture
General internal medicine.

Studies provide convincing evidence that lowering cholesterol with statin drugs improves outcomes.-Controversy regarding calcium channel blockers in the treatment of hypertension.-Balancing risks and benefits of anticoagulants.
Lysine Adsorption on Cation Exchange Resin. III. Multicolumn Adsorption/Desorption Operation

Abstract A model previously developed to describe ion exchange equilibria, kinetics, and column dynamics of lysine adsorption on a strong acid cation exchanger is extended to simulate the cyclic adsorption/desorption of lysine in a multicolumn, simulated countercurrent system. The system simulated comprises an adsorption zone, a desorption zone, and two zones where unadsorbed feed components and excess desorbent are removed. Multiple columns are distributed among the four zones in different simulated countercurrent schemes, including a scheme that allows recycling of excess desorbent and another where the lysine recovery yield is enhanced at low flow rates by lowering the pH in the last column of the adsorption zone. Model predictions are validated by comparison with experimental results obtained in an eight‐column bench scale apparatus and a parametric study is conducted with the model to determine the effects of critical design variables. This research was supported by Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
Trait Self-Esteem, Positive and Negative Events, and Event-Specific Shifts in Self-Evaluation and Affect

Relations between trait self-esteem and event-specific shifts in self-evaluation and affect were explored in two studies of undergraduates (Ns = 170 and 198). Participants were exposed to eight scenarios in which they received positive or negative self-relevant information. In both studies, low trait self-esteem participants anticipated larger negative shifts in global self-evaluation, greater negative generalization across areas of self-concept, and more negative affect after negative events. Trait self-esteem did not consistently predict reactions to positive events. Implications of the findings for the measurement of self-concept stability and affect and for the maintenance and treatment of low trait self-esteem are discussed.
Comparison of Empirical Learning Curves in Programmed Instruction at Different Ability Levels

Reanalysis of data for individual and group learning curves of mental retardates supported the relevance of intelligence and past experience in learning.
Compositional factors affecting NOx emissions from Ohio coals

A series of controlled combustion experiments has been performed on nine bituminous coals that represent the types of coals typically used from the State of Ohio, and one bituminous coal from Kentucky with a high percentage nitrogen content. The coals were combusted in a drop tube reactor at 1200 °C, a gas residence time of 0.5 s, and an air/fuel ratio (A/F) of 1.1. The steady-state NOx emission levels for each coal were determined and compared to the coals' composition, including their volatile matter, fixed carbon, and nitrogen content. A relationship was developed based on the coal's compositional factors and defined as FF=αFCVM−β(No) where FF is the coal's fuel factor, α and β are constants, FC is the coal's fixed carbon, VM is the volatile matter, and No is the nitrogen percentage, all on a dry, ash-free (daf) basis. This relationship was shown to predict the relative NOx emission values of the 10 coals (relative NOx emissions were determined by normalizing the actual NOx emissions for each coal to the concentration of the coal with the lowest measured NOx concentration) when the values of α and β are 550 and 92, respectively. In addition, when the heat content of the coals was considered, a linear relationship still exists between the relative NOx emission levels and the coal's chemical properties. Possible explanations for this behavior are given in the text. These results may be useful in determining the type of similar-rank coals to burn in a particular combustor to reduce NOx emissions.
On the descent of Levi factors

Let G be a linear algebraic group over a field k of characteristic p > 0, and suppose that the unipotent radical R of G is defined and split over k. By a Levi factor of G, one means a closed subgroup M which is a complement to R in G. In this paper, we give two results related to the descent of Levi factors. First, suppose l is a finite Galois extension of k for which the extension degree [l : k] is relatively prime to p. If G /l has a Levi decomposition, we show that G has a Levi decomposition. Second, suppose that there is a G-equivariant isomorphism of algebraic groups $${R \simeq Lie(R)}$$ – i.e. R is a vector group with a linear action of the reductive quotient G/R. If $${G_{{/k}_{sep}}}$$ has a Levi decomposition for a separable closure k sep of k, then G has a Levi decomposition. Finally, we give an example of a disconnected, abelian, linear algebraic group G for which $${G_{{/k}_{sep}}}$$ has a Levi decomposition, but G itself has no Levi decomposition.
Interferometric study of cosmic line emission at OH frequencies.

Interferometric observation of cosmic emission at OH frequency, noting emission source dimensions
Coronal Magnetic Field Topology over Filament Channels: Implication for Coronal Mass Ejection Initiations

The magnetic field topology at the coronal mass ejection (CME) source regions has been one of the major focuses of CME initiation models. While the "breakout" model requires a quadrupolar magnetic topology in the solar corona to enable an eruption, other models have shown that a bipolar magnetic topology can be the source region of a CME. In this paper, we use observational data and a potential field source surface model to investigate the magnetic field topology over CME productive quiescent filaments. A total of 80 quiescent filament-associated CME events during 1996-2004, spanning almost one solar cycle, with angular width ≥80° are selected for this study. We found both bipolar topology and quadrupolar topology at CME source regions. This observational test of the assumptions of theoretical CME models suggests that bipolar topology is more common overall and in each year. The total occurrence ratio between quadrupolar and bipolar topology is about 1 : 3 with this selection of events. On the rising phase of the solar cycle, there is mostly bipolar topology, but on the declining phase, there is a mixture of both bipolar and quadrupolar topology. The bipolar topology occurrence has no clear solar cycle dependence. The quadrupolar topology occurrence peaks on the declining phase in the current solar cycle 23.
Microvascular complications of diabetes

Several theories of the pathogenesis of microvascular complications of diabetes (diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy) have been proposed: (1) generation of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress, (2) activation of polyol pathway, (3) formation of advanced glycation end products, (4) induction of flux through the hexosamine pathway, (5) altered expression and action of growth factors, and (6) activation of protein kinase C. Based on these theories, specific interventions are feasible to prevent the development of diabetic complications even if satisfactory euglycemic control is not achieved.
Early Devonian conodonts from Prince of Wales Island, southeastern Alaska

Early Devonian conodonts from 11 localities on Prince of Wales Island and adjacent small islands, southeastern Alaska, include Pandorinellina optima (Moskalenko), Pandorinellina exigua philipi (Klapper), Pandorinellina exigua exigua (Philip), Pandorinellina? boucoti (Klapper), Pelekysgnathus serratus Jentzsch, Pelekysgnathus cf. P. klamathensis Savage, Pelekysgnathus n. sp., Eognathodus sulcatus sulcatus Philip, Eognathodus sulcatus kindlei Lane and Ormiston, Eognathodus sulcatus n. ssp. A, Eognathodus sulcatus n. ssp. B, Ozarkodina eberleini Savage, Kimognathus alexeii Mashkova, Kimognathus n. sp. A, and Kimognathus n. sp. B. The occurrences indicate that Lower Devonian deposits are widespread on Prince of Wales Island. On Wadleigh Island, Zlichovian, and probably older, deposits underlie Eifelian beds of the Wadleigh Limestone, previously thought to include limestone only of Middle and Late Devonian age. The Early Devonian faunas of this part of southeastern Alaska contain species characteristic of Cordilleran North America. There are strong affinities with Nevada, eastern Australia, and central Asia, but lesser affinities with central and eastern Europe. Affinities with eastern North America and western Europe are relatively weak. Regional variations in conodont color alteration indices suggest that the southern half of Prince of Wales Island has a different post-Devonian thermal history from the northern half.
Emergency medical service providers' experiences with traffic congestion.

Abstract Background The population's migration from urban to suburban areas has resulted in a more dispersed population and has increased traffic flow, possibly resulting in longer emergency response times. Although studies have examined the effect of response times on time to definitive care and survival, no study has addressed the possible causes of slowed response time from the point of view of emergency medical services (EMS) first responders. Objectives To assess the variables most commonly associated with increased emergency response time as described by the opinions and views of EMS first responders. Methods A total of 500 surveys were sent to randomly selected individuals registered as first responders with the Alabama Department of Public Health, and 112 surveys were returned completed. The survey included questions regarding roadway design, response to emergency calls, in-vehicle technology aimed at decreasing travel time, and public education regarding emergency response. Results Respondents reported traveling on city streets most often during emergency calls, and encountering traffic more often on interstates and national highways. Traffic congestion, on average, resulted in nearly 10 min extra response time. Most agreed that the most effective in-vehicle technology for reducing response time was a pre-emptive green light device; however, very few reported availability of this device in their emergency vehicles. Public education regarding how to react to approaching emergency vehicles was stated as having the greatest potential impact on reducing emergency response time. Conclusion The results of the survey suggest that the best methods for reducing emergency response times are those that are easy to implement (e.g., public education).
Towards predicting Protein-Protein Interactions in novel organisms

Machine learning methods are often used to predict Protein-Protein Interactions (PPI). It is common to develop methods using known PPI from well-characterised reference organisms, drawing from that organism data for inferring a predictive model and evaluating the model. We present evidence that this practice does not give a meaningful indication of the model's performance on genetically distinct organisms. We conclude that this practice cannot be applied to proteins inferred from the genetic sequence of a novel organism for which no PPI data is available, and that there is need for evaluating such methods on organisms distinct from their training organisms.
Structure and magnetism of quasicrystalline and crystalline Al 1-x Mn x alloys

We have performed x-ray structural studies of quenched and annealed ${\mathrm{Al}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Mn}}_{x}$ alloys in the range of $0.14\ensuremath{\le}x\ensuremath{\le}0.20$. The quenched samples exhibit a coexistence of Al with an icosahedral phase, the latter having a maximum volume fraction at $x=0.20$. Magnetic susceptibility measurements for $x=0.14 \mathrm{and} 0.20$ show a dramatically enhanced magnetic moment in the icosahedral phase ($p=0.747 \mathrm{and} 1.27, \mathrm{respectively}$) as compared to the annealed samples ($p=0 \mathrm{and} 0.617, \mathrm{respectively}$). The increase of magnetic moment per Mn ion with increasing Mn concentration indicates a range of stoichometries and microstructures over which the icosahedral phase can exist.
Quantum Hall effect in a bulk crystal.

We have observed remarkably flat Hall plateaus (step ratios . . .5:4:3:2:1) with correspondingly sharp peaks in the magnetoresistance in the Bechgaard salt (TMTSF${)}_{2}$${\mathrm{PF}}_{6}$. This highly anisotropic conductor exhibits magnetic-field-induced spin-density-wave (FISDW) states at low temperatures and pressures above about 6 kbar. Unlike previous measurements on similar materials we find almost complete confirmation of the theoretical model for the FISDW transitions, their quantum Hall effects, and the predicted high-field semiconducting state.
Heat and mass transfer in metal hydride beds for heat pump applications

Heat and mass transfer in a metal hydride bed is modeled. The mode includes heat conduction, hydrogen flow governed by Darcy's law modified for the transitional flow regime, and sorption kinetics assuming that diffusion across the hydride is the rate limiting step. The model parameters are established for LaNi4.7Al0.3 alloy using available experimental data. Parametric calculations for a space vehicle heat pump application show the competing effects of heat transfer, hydrogen flow and sorption kinetics limitations. The effect of augmenting heat conduction is demonstrated. Optimum bed thicknesses appear limitations. The effect of augmenting heat conduction is demonstrated. Optimum bed thicknesses appear to be in the range 10–20 mm for a 3 min absorption time and kb = 1.3 ∼ 5 W m−1 K−1.
Why mental disorders are just mental dysfunctions (and nothing more): some Darwinian arguments

Abstract Mental disorders are often thought to be harmful dysfunctions. Jerome Wakefield has argued that such dysfunctions should be understood as failures of naturally selected functions. This suggests, implicitly, that evolutionary biology and other Darwinian disciplines hold important information for anyone working on answering the philosophical question, ‘what is a mental disorder?’. In this article, the author argues that Darwinian theory is not only relevant to the understanding of the disrupted functions, but it also sheds light on the disruption itself, as well as on the harm that attends the disruption. The arguments advanced here are partially based on the view that a core feature of Darwinism is that it stresses the environmental relativity of functions and dysfunctions. These arguments show a very close empirical connection between social judgments (values) and dysfunctions (psychopathology), which is of interest for psychiatric theory. Philosophically, they lead to the conclusion that the concept of mental disorder is identical to the concept of mental dysfunction. Consequently, it is both misleading and redundant to conceptualize mental disorders as ‘harmful dysfunctions’, and not simply as ‘mental dysfunctions’.
A new multivariate normality goodness of fit test with graphical applications

Abstract A new procedure for assessing distributional assumptions of multivariate data, with graphical applications, is presented and illustrated using a real industrial example. The procedure is based on transforming the multivariate sample into a set of uncorrelated samples and representing the order statistics of each transformed sample by linked vectors in a two dimensional space.
A Method for Calculating Bacterial Deposition Coefficients Using the Fraction of Bacteria Recovered from Laboratory Columns

To determine if a practical relationship exists between the easily determined fractional recovery of bacteria and the deposition coefficient, useful for predictive modeling, an analytical solution to a nondimensional transport equation incorporating bacterial deposition was integrated. A nonlinear relationship between the dimensionless deposition coefficient (κ1) and fraction of bacteria recovered (fr) was observed, and this relationship was shown to be affected by dispersion. This theoretical relationship was tested for its utility using observed data from a suite of column experiments. The predicted relationship between κ1 and fr was reflected quite well by the experimental data. The results indicate that a simple measurefractional recovery of bacteriacan be used to obtain an accurate value for the dimensionless deposition coefficient.
Molecular phylogenies and historical biogeography of a circumtropical group of gastropods (Genus: Nerita): implications for regional diversity patterns in the marine tropics.

Abstract To determine how historical processes, namely speciation, extinction, and dispersal, have contributed to regional species diversity patterns across the marine tropics, we examined the biogeographical history of a circumtropical genus of intertidal gastropods. A species-level phylogeny of Nerita, representing approximately 87% of extant species, was developed from 1608 bp of mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (ATPSα) markers. Phylogenetic relationships generally corresponded to prior classifications; however, comprehensive sampling revealed a number of previously undetected ESUs. Using the resulting tree as a framework, we combined geographical distributions and fossil evidence to reconstruct ancestral ranges, produce a time-calibrated chronogram, and estimate diversification rates. Analyses revealed two monophyletic eastern Pacific + Atlantic (EPA) clades, each of which likely split from an Indo-West Pacific (IWP) sister clade prior to an early Miocene Tethys Seaway closure. More recent diversification throughout the IWP appears to have been driven by both vicariance and dispersal events; EPA diversity has been further shaped by speciation across the Central American Seaway prior to its closure and dispersal across the Atlantic. Despite the latter, inter-regional dispersal has been rare, and likely contributes little to regional diversity patterns. Similarly, infrequent transitions into temperate regions combined with reduced diversification rates may explain low diversity in West and South Pacific clades. Since origination, Nerita diversification appears remarkably constant, with the exception of a lag in the late Eocene–early Oligocene and elevated rates in the late Oligocene–early Miocene. However, a comparison among regions suggested that IWP clades have experienced, on average, higher rates of speciation. Fossil evidence indicates that the EPA likely witnessed greater extinction relative to the IWP. We propose that regional differences in species diversity in Nerita have been largely shaped by differential rates of speciation and extinction.
Mutations in the Endo Domain of Sindbis Virus Glycoprotein E2 Block Phosphorylation, Reorientation of the Endo Domain, and Nucleocapsid Binding

Exposure of the carboxyl terminus (endo domain) of Sindbis virus membrane glycoprotein E2 to the cell cytoplasm is critical for the interaction of the nucleocapsid with viral envelope proteins in modified cell membranes. We have shown that the endo domain of PE2/E2 is initially translocated into membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum and subsequently drawn back into the cell cytoplasm during virus assembly. We suggested that phosphorylation of PE2/E2 might be responsible for the reorganization of the PE2/E2 carboxyl terminus. To test this hypothesis, two potential phosphorylation sites in the endo domain of E2, Thr398 and Tyr400, were changed by site-directed mutagenesis. Virus structural proteins are produced at normal levels in BHK-21 cells transfected with RNA containing the double mutation, nucleocapsids are formed, and the envelope proteins are exported from the endoplasmic reticulum; however, no virus is produced. The double mutation prevents phosphorylation of PE2/E2, and electron microscopy of cells transfected with the double mutant RNA reveals no attachment of nucleocapsids to cell membranes. The double mutation blocks exposure of the carboxyl terminus of E2 to the cytoplasm. Revertants of the double mutant to virus production all restored tyrosine at position 400 and restored the ability of the E2 protein to be phosphorylated. Although the threonine at position 398 is conserved among the alphaviruses, no revertant restored threonine at this position.
Spectral decomposition by wavelet approximation to the Karhunen-Loeve transform

There are a wide variety of reasons to link spectroscopy with time-series analysis1 and hence with the theory of random processes. While it remains true that the dominant harmonic analysis of spectroscopy is distributional Fourier theory, there are nonetheless good rationales for exploring other decompositions such as the one explored here (the canonical decomposition). One reason which motivates us the the necessity of discriminating tissue types by color spectrum. rfo do this efficiently, one seeks to mininiize the number of characteristic discriininants which describe the spectrum. By treating the spectrum as an instance of a random process, it is well-known that the eigenvalues ) of its canonical decomposition (or Karhunen-Loeve decomposition) , when ordered in decreasing order () )'2 )3 . . .) will typically decay very rapidly, and it follows that usually only the first few (ordered) eigenvalues are needed to characterize the spectrum.
Leafhopper Comparative Genomics - Identifying Similarities and Differences across Leafhopper Vectors of Xylella fastidiosa

Abstract. Insects in the order Hemiptera are considered the second most important group of plant pathogen vectors, after aphids as agriculture crop pests. Genomic approaches are providing new information on the genetic basis of biology, behavior, and refinement of their phylogenetic classification. Three leafhopper species, important as vectors of plant pathogenic bacteria referred to as Xylella fastidiosa (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), were examined by comparison of the available expressed sequence tags, ∼43,400 ESTs from three leafhopper species (Hunter datasets, NCBI). These species are vectors of the plant-pathogenic bacterium, Xylella fastidiosa (Wells et al.) the causal agent of Pierce's disease of grapevine. A tentative look at the gene expression across these three leafhopper species, the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar), blue-green sharpshooter, Graphocephala atropunctata (Signoret), and black-winged sharpshooter, Oncometopia nigricans (Walker), were analyzed. After compar...
Unconstrained isosurface extraction on arbitrary octrees

This paper presents a novel algorithm for generating a watertight level-set from an octree. We show that the levelset can be efficiently extracted regardless of the topology of the octree or the values assigned to the vertices. The key idea behind our approach is the definition of a set of binary edge-trees derived from the octree's topology. We show that the edge-trees can be used define the positions of the isovalue-crossings in a consistent fashion and to resolve inconsistencies that may arise when a single edge has multiple isovalue-crossings. Using the edge-trees, we show that a provably watertight mesh can be extracted from the octree without necessitating the refinement of nodes or modification of their values.
Hummingbird feather sounds are produced by aeroelastic flutter, not vortex-induced vibration

SUMMARY Males in the ‘bee’ hummingbird clade produce distinctive, species-specific sounds with fluttering tail feathers during courtship displays. Flutter may be the result of vortex shedding or aeroelastic interactions. We investigated the underlying mechanics of flutter and sound production of a series of different feathers in a wind tunnel. All feathers tested were capable of fluttering at frequencies varying from 0.3 to 10 kHz. At low airspeeds ( U air ) feather flutter was highly damped, but at a threshold airspeed ( U *) the feathers abruptly entered a limit-cycle vibration and produced sound. Loudness increased with airspeed in most but not all feathers. Reduced frequency of flutter varied by an order of magnitude, and declined with increasing U air in all feathers. This, along with the presence of strong harmonics, multiple modes of flutter and several other non-linear effects indicates that flutter is not simply a vortex-induced vibration, and that the accompanying sounds are not vortex whistles. Flutter is instead aeroelastic, in which structural (inertial/elastic) properties of the feather interact variably with aerodynamic forces, producing diverse acoustic results.
Travel: A Long-Range Goal of Retired Women

The authors surveyed retired persons (predominately women) with regard to their immediate, intermediate, and long-range activities following retirement. As predicted, leisure travel emerged as a frequent long-range goal for persons retired more than 5 years. The travel activity preferences of long-retired older women present challenges and opportunities to both researchers and marketers. Length of trips and frequency of trips have been predicted from regression models, with trip length in particular being well predicted by the problem of daily life hassles. A theoretical model of continued post-retirement travel is presented as a variant of Solomon's opponent process theory of affect (R. L. Solomon, 1980). The authors suggest that to the degree that places traveled to are varied and different, older people may remain stimulated and continue to enjoy retirement.
CTLA4 mediates antigen-specific apoptosis of human T cells.

Abstract The regulation of T cell-mediated immune responses requires a balance between amplification and generation of effector function and subsequent selective termination by clonal deletion. Although apoptosis of previously activated T cells can be induced by signaling of the tumor necrosis factor receptor family, these molecules do not appear to regulate T-cell clonal deletion in an antigen-specific fashion. We demonstrate that cross-linking of the inducible T-cell surface molecule CTLA4 can mediate apoptosis of previously activated human T lymphocytes. This function appears to be antigen-restricted, since a concomitant signal T-cell receptor signal is required. Regulation of this pathway may provide a novel therapeutic strategy to delete antigen-specific activated T cells.
Resources for Toxicologic and Radiologic Information and Assistance

Most approaches toward chemical and radiological/nuclear (CRN) incidents focus on the clinical skills of the first receiver. These skills are certainly important and are addressed throughout this article. Management skills are often overlooked. The following are basic competencies in information management for the emergency medicine physician to handle large-scale CRN incidents: planning information; incident management information; toxicant management; disposition/definitive care management; and recovery management. Information management and synthesis are crucial throughout the phases of the disaster cycle: planning, response, mitigation, and recovery.
Antidepressants and HIV infection: Effect of lithium chloride and desipramine on HIV replication

There is increasing evidence that depression occurs in a significant number of individuals with HIV infection. Consequently, antidepressant medication treatment is often prescribed in an attempt to alleviate depressive symptoms and improve the quality of life. However, psychopharmacologic agents have direct effects on the immune system. Therefore we studied the effects of lithium chloride and the tricyclic antidepressant, desipramine, on HIV replication in T lymphocytes in culture. The effect of lithium on reverse transcriptase activity was also studied in vitro. Neither lithium nor desipramine had an effect on HW replication, and lithium had no effect on virus-associated reverse transcriptase activity. Although these results suggest that lithium and desipramine can be used without adverse effects on HIV replication for the treatment of depression in HIV-infected individuals, in vivo effects can not be ruled out by these in vitro findings. Depression 1:205-209 (1993). © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Determination of Naltrexone and 6-β-Naltrexol in Plasma by Solid-Phase Extraction and Gas Chromatography-Negative Ion Chemical Ionization-Mass Spectrometry

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) and a one-step derivatization are combined with gas chromatography-negative ion chemical ionization-mass spectrometry to simplify a previously reported method for the determination of naltrexone and its metabolite, 6-beta-naltrexol, in human plasma. Deuterated isotopomers of naltrexone and 6-beta-naltrexol are used as internal standards. After SPE, the extracts are derivatized with pentafluoropropionic anhydride at room temperature to form predominantly the bispentafluoropropionyl derivative of naltrexone and the trispentafluoropropionyl derivative of 6-beta-naltrexol. The derivatized extracts are analyzed by monitoring ion currents at m/z 633 (naltrexone), m/z 636 (naltrexone-2H3), m/z 633 6-beta-naltrexol), and m/z 640 (6-beta-naltrexol-2H7). Control plasma samples containing 0.3, 3, or 30 ng/nl of each analyte were analyzed for precision and accuracy with the following results: intra-assay, the percentage of target concentrations were 107-113% for naltrexone and 107-120% for 6-beta-naltrexol, and the coefficients of variation (CVs) were 3.1-6.3% for naltrexone and 3.1-5.7% for 6-beta-naltrexol; interassay, the percentage of target concentrations were 103-110% for naltrexone and 110-113% for 6-beta-naltrexol, and the CVs were 6.1-9.1% for naltrexone and 5.9-9.1% for 6-beta-naltrexol. At the limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.1 ng/ml, both analytes quantified within 20% of the target concentration with CVs less than 17%. The extraction recoveries determined at 0.3 and 30 ng/ml were 79 and 80% for naltrexone and 76 and 75% for 6-beta-naltrexol. Bench-top stability tested with concentrations of 0.3 and 3.0 ng/ml did not decrease more than 10% from the zero-hour controls at 3, 6 and 24 h. Selectively was determined using plasma from six donors and none showed interfering peaks greater than 22% of the LOQ for naltrexone and 53% of the LOQ for 6-beta-naltrexol. Using this method, naltrexone and 6-beta-naltrexol were readily detected in plasma specimens collected 5.5 h after oral doses of 25 or 100 mg naltrexone. Following discontinuation of treatment, naltrexone was detected 30 h after the 100-mg dose, whereas 6-beta-naltrexol was detected 125 h after both the 25- and 100-mg doses.
Biofouling and corrosion of stainless steels in natural waters

The noble shift in corrosion potential to values between +300 and +400 mV SCE and the accompanying increase in cathodic current density and polarization slope at mild cathodic potentials that develop during microbial colonization of passive metals, are collectively known as ennoblement. This phenomenon is of concern as the noble shift in the corrosion potential may lead to pitting corrosion. We have demonstrated, by growing pure cultures of manganese oxidizing bacteria (MOB) Leptothrix discophora SP-6 under well defined conditions, that microbial deposition of manganese oxides causes ennoblement of 316L stainless steel (SS). Exposing 316L corrosion coupons in lakes and streams supported this conclusion; the rate and extent of ennoblement were positively correlated with the rates of deposition and the amounts of biomineralized manganese oxides deposited on the surfaces of the SS corrosion coupons. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses of the deposits from the ennobled coupons revealed a mixture of manganese oxides, as expected. Many natural waters can support growth of MOB. When manganese-oxidizing biofilms accumulate on surfaces of passive metals there is a potential for manganese redox cycling on the metal surface. This process is initiated by depositing minute amounts of manganese oxides on the metal surface. These microbially deposited manganese oxides are then reduced by the electrons derived from anodic dissolution of the metal: the metal is corroding and the manganese oxides are reduced to divalent manganese ions. However, since the manganese ions are liberated within the manganese-oxidizing biofilm, the manganese ions are immediately reoxidized, and the cycle continues.
Supporting learning through spatial information presentations in virtual environments

Though many researchers have suggested that 3D virtual environments (VEs) could provide advantages for conceptual learning, few studies have attempted to evaluate the validity of this claim. A wide variety of educational VEs have been developed, but little empirical evidence exists to help researchers and educators determine the effectiveness of these applications. Additional evidence is needed in order to decide whether VEs should be used to aid conceptual learning. Furthermore, if there is evidence that VEs can support learning, developers and researchers will still need to understand how to design effective educational applications. While many educational VEs share the challenge of providing learners with information within 3D spaces, few researchers have investigated what approaches are used to help learn new information from 3D spatial representations. It is not understood how well learners can take advantage of 3D layouts to help understand information. Additionally, although complex arrangements of information within 3D space can potentially allow for large amounts of information to be presented within a VE, accessing this information can become more difficult due to the increased navigational challenges. Complicating these issues are details regarding display types and interaction devices used for educational applications. Compared to desktop displays, more immersive VE systems often provide display features (e.g., stereoscopy, increased field of view) that support improved perception and understanding of spatial information. Additionally, immersive VE often allow more familiar, natural interaction methods (e.g., physical walking or rotation of the head and body) to control viewing within the virtual space. It is unknown how these features interact with the types of spatial information presentations to affect learning. The research presented in this dissertation investigates these issues in order to further the knowledge of how to design VEs to support learning. The research includes six studies (five empirical experiments and one case study) designed to investigate how spatial information presentations affect learning effectiveness and learner strategies. This investigation includes consideration for the complexity of spatial information layouts, the features of display systems that could affect the effectiveness of spatial strategies, and the degree of navigational control for accessing information. Based on the results of these studies, we created a set of design guidelines for developing VEs for learning-related activities. By considering factors of virtual information presentation, as well as those based on the display-systems, our guidelines support design decisions for both the software and hardware required for creating effective educational VEs.
Abstract TP13: CT Perfusion-Guided Patient Selection for Acute Stroke Intervention Reduces In-Hospital Mortality

Background and Purpose: Perfusion studies are increasingly used to triage acute stroke patients for endovascular recanalization therapies. However, the potential benefit of such an approach remains unproven. We compared the safety and efficacy of computed-tomography-perfusion-(CTP)-guided to time-guided mechanical recanalization in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. Methods: A comparative analysis was conducted on 132 patients, 94 undergoing CTP-guided and 38 undergoing time-guided (maximum 8 hours from symptom onset) mechanical recanalization at our institution. The rates of recanalization, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), in-hospital mortality, and overall clinical outcomes were compared. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine predictors of in-hospital mortality. Results: The two groups were comparable with respect to baseline characteristics with the exception of longer mean time interval from stroke onset to endovascular intervention in the CTP group (7.2 vs. 4.3 hours, p=0.006). The rate of partial-to-complete recanalization did not differ between the CTP and the non-CTP group (78.7% vs. 81.6%, respectively, p=0.71). Symptomatic and overall ICH occurred respectively in 8.5% and 18.1% in the CTP group versus 15.8% and 31.6% in the non-CTP group (p=0.06). The overall in-hospital mortality rate was significantly lower in the CTP group (15.9% vs. 36.8%, p=0.040). Likewise, mean modified Rankin Scale at discharge was 3.8 in the CTP group versus 4.4 in the non-CTP group (p=0.042). In multivariable analysis, CTP-based patient selection was an independent negative predictor of in-hospital mortality (OR= 3.2; 95% CI, 1.2-8.2; p=0.01). Conclusions: CTP-based patient selection was associated with lower ICH and mortality rates, with better overall patient outcomes. Our results suggest a significant benefit with CTP-guided patient selection and support the implementation of CTP-based protocols for triage of AIS patients for recanalization therapies.
Non-directed aromatic C-H amination: catalytic and mechanistic studies enabled by Pd catalyst and reagent design.

This manuscript describes the systematic development of pyridine-type ligands, which promote the Pd catalyzed, non-directed amination of benzene in combination with novel, hydroxylamine-based electrophilic amination reagents. DFT calculations and mechanistic experiments provide insights into the factors influencing the arene C–H amination protocol.
Sequence analysis of the sta 56 genes from the laboratory-preserved and the isolated strains from Fujian province of Orientia tsutsugamushi Karp strain

To compare the differences in sequences of the,sta 56 gene of the laboratory-preserved and two isolated strains from Fujian province,the genomic DNAs of different strains of Qrientia tsutsugamushi were extracted from the infected Vero cells,and their open reading frames(ORF) of the sta 56 gene were amplified and sequenced.Phylogenetic tree was constructed on the sta 56 gene of 15 strains.It was found that the sequences of the sta 56 genes of long term-preserved Karp strain showed 98% of identity with that of the reference strain.There were only two different nucleotides detected between the sequences of two locally isolated strains FQ and NA strain,showing 96% of consensus sequences with Karp strain.These results indicates that the sta 56 gene of the long term-preserved Karp strain has undergone some variations after numerous passages,and the two locally isolated strains,FQ and NA strain,showing sequence variations are belong to the Karp strain.
Transmission of nonA/nonB hepatitis during coagulation pyelolithotomy.

AbstractThe use of coagulum for renal stone surgery is an important yet less frequently used tool in the urological armamentarium. We report the first documented case of transmission of viral hepatitis during coagulum pyelolithotomy. We review the basic tenets of its use, with a brief discussion of the blood-borne transmission of viral particles and risk of hepatic injury with volatile anesthetic agents, and propose the continued safe use of coagulum by autologous donation of cryoprecipitate.
Fatigue fracture of the tarsal navicular.

Fatigue fracture of the tarsal navicular is an uncommon and unusual vertical type of fracture which may require special roentgenographic views and laminagraphy for detection. This type of fracture has not been previously reported in man. Two cases of fatigue fracture of the tarsal navicular in male high-school athletes have been presented. One of these fractures healed with plaster-cast immobilization and the other was treated by open reduction and internal fixation.
Gene-Environment Interplay, Interpersonal Relationships, and Development: A Volume Introduction

A vast majority of research has typically examined interpersonal relationships as “environmental factors.” More recently, behavioral genetics research has demonstrated that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to variation in interpersonal relationships. The current volume addresses the role of both genetic and environmental influences on interpersonal relationships at different key stages across the lifespan. Specifically, this volume discusses the extent to which genetic and/or environmental influences contribute to specific types of interpersonal relationships (e.g., parent-child, sibling, peer, work, and marital relationships) at different across childhood and adulthood. Finally, the function of genes (e.g., gene expression and telomere length) in relation to interpersonal relationships across the lifespan is discussed.
Enhancement in excitonic absorption for GaAs/AlGaAs multiple-quantum-well structures under external anisotropic strain

We report 25% enhancement in heavy-hole excitonic absorption due to simultaneous compression and tension along two perpendicular directions. The anisotropic absorption characteristics are created in a GaAs/AlGaAs multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structure by differential thermal expansion1 between LiTaO3 and GaAs. The anisotropic excitonic-absorption feature of this device is important for polarization-sensitive applications. The quantum-confined Stark effect of the resulting strained GaAs/AlGaAs MQW will also be discussed.
Multi-Beam MIMO Prototype for Real-Time Multiuser Communication at 28 GHz

The rapid proliferation of data hungry devices is creating a bandwidth crisis, with aggregate data rates expected to increase 1000 fold between 2010 and 2020. Millimeter-wave (mmW) systems operating in the 30-300 GHz band are poised to meet this exploding demand through large bandwidths and high-dimensional MIMO operation. However conventional MIMO techniques result in prohibitively high complexity, and existing phased array based mmW prototypes are only capable of supporting a single beam. In this paper, we report new results on a Continuous Aperture Phased (CAP) MIMO prototype system that uses a lens array for analog multi-beamforming to achieve near-optimal performance with a dramatically lower transceiver complexity. We discuss the main components of the CAP-MIMO prototype design and present initial experimental results on an FPGA-based real- time implementation of a point-to-multipoint multiuser link at 28 GHz. Directions for future research and development are also briefly discussed.
Compressed imagery detection rate through map seeking circuit, and histogram of oriented gradient pattern recognition

This research investigates the features retained after image compression for automatic pattern recognition purposes. Many raw images with vehicles in them were collected for these experiments. These raw images were significantly compressed using open-source JPEG and JPEG2000 compression algorithms. The original and compressed images are processed with a Map Seeking Circuit (MSC) pattern recognition algorithm, as well as a Histogram of Oriented Gradient (HOG) with Support Vector Machine (SVM) pattern recognition program. Detection rates are given for these images that demonstrates the feature extraction capabilities as well as false alarm rates when the compression was increased. JPEG2000 compression results show preservation of the features needed for automatic pattern recognition which was better than the JPEG standard image compression results.
Physiologic and Pathophysiologic Effects of Angiotensin in the Heart and Vessel Wall

Angiotensin II (Ang II) exerts a majority of its known cardiovascular activities through the AT1 receptor. This receptor is a member of the 7-transmembrane superfamily and it exerts its actions via coupling to various G-proteins. Its downstream effectors include adenylate-cyclase, various phospholipases and ion channels. Moreover, various tyrosine kinase pathways have been reported to be activated by the AT1 receptor which result in the stimulation of the early response genes controlling cell growth. This action has been observed in several cell lines including cardiac myocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells. Moreover, studies strongly implicate the renin angiotensin system in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Therefore, blockade of this system should influence not only vascular tone but may also have dramatic effects on vascular and cardiac structure.