cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Double abdomen induction with low UV-doses inSmittia spec. (Chironomidae, diptera): Sensitive period and complete photoreversibility.

In embryos of the chironomid midgeSmittia spec., UV-irradiation of anterior pole regions results in double abdomen formation. In this abnormal body pattern, head and thorax are replaced by a mirror image of the abdomen. Irradiation at a particular stage between nuclear migration and blastoderm formation, and with the anterior pole facing the UV-beam, yields 100% double abdomens after a minimum UV-dose (140 J·m−2 at 285 nm wavelength). By subsequent exposure to light of longer wavelength, embryos can be reprogrammed so that they develop normally again. The irradiation procedure described is suitable for programming large numbers of embryos for double abdomen formation, with a minimum of side effects and virtually complete photoreversibility.
Necessary and sufficient conditions on the parameters of 1-D Gaussian Markov processes

The valid parameter space of infinite- and finite-length (1-D noncausal) Gaussian Markov (GM) processes is investigated. For the infinite-length process, the authors show that the valid parameter space admits a simple description. The procedure the authors present to obtain such a description is readily implementable for any order process. The authors apply this procedure to a nontrivial special class, namely, the second-order 1-D GM processes. The authors obtain a simple and complete description of the valid parameter space for this class, which they observe to be considerably larger than the one implied by the previously known sufficient condition. For the finite-length process, it is shown that the valid parameter space does not admit a simple description. The set of conditions for the infinite-length process, however, serves as a good set of sufficient conditions for the finite-length case. The results readily apply to 2-D Gaussian Markov random fields (GMRFs) with a separable autocorrelation. >
ISOLATION OF A CYTOCHROME P450 3A CDNA SEQUENCE (CYP3A30) FROM THE MARINE TELEOST FUNDULUS HETEROCLITUS AND PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSES OF CYP3A GENES

A reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) protocol, using degenerate PCR-primers specific to highly conserved regions of mammalian CYP3A genes, was employed to amplify a 400 base pair cDNA fragment from Fundulus heteroclitus liver RNA. The 124 amino acid sequence deduced from this cDNA sequence was aligned with corresponding sequences from representative members from the CYP1, 2, 3, and 4 gene families retrieved from the GenBank database. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using distance-matrix and maximum parsimony methods. The F. heteroclitus sequence and all mammalian CYP3A sequences cluster together when compared to sequences of members of CYP gene families 1, 2, and 4. This fish sequence was 57 to 70% identical to the corresponding region of mammalian CYP3A genes. These data indicate that the sequence obtained from F. heteroclitus represents a teleost fish CYP3A gene and it has been designated CYP3A30.
SU-C-500-07: Material Interface Behavior of the Eclipse Modulated Spot Scanning Proton Algorithm

Purpose: Evaluate the accuracy of the Eclipse proton dose calculation at high and low density material interfaces. Methods: A phantom designed to test the Eclipse algorithm accuracy at material interfaces was developed. The phantom is a 40-cm water cube with two slab heterogeneities (dense bone and air). The materials abut at the central-axis and dose from a single 144.7-MeV beam spot along and spanning the interface was calculated. Depth and thickness of the slabs were varied to examine effects on beam termination and penetration of the bone. The dose distributions were compared using a variety of metrics. Results: The most notable observed difference was the presence of three Bragg peaks in Eclipse versus two in Geant4. The proximal peak corresponds to the range associated with the presence of the bone and the distal to that of the air. Eclipse calculates an intermediate peak of substantial intensity. The depth of this peak scales linearly with the thickness of the slabs, but is independent of the slab depth. Intensity of the peak decreases with increasing thickness, but is constant with depth. The energy loss associated with this peak causes a decrease (∼45%) in the intensity of the distal peak. The distal peak locations agree to within 2-mm, while the proximal peaks are deeper in Eclipse by ∼5-mm for all shallow slabs and 1.6-mm for the deep slab. Intensity of the proximal peaks differed by 2–5% with the greatest difference observed with the deep slab. Conclusions: Large discrepancies were identified in the Eclipse spot scanning proton dose calculation algorithm relative to Monte Carlo calculations in the presence of a material interface. These differences are much greater than those observed in a homogenous phantom. Further investigation is necessary to determine the impact of these discrepancies on patient dose calculations under clinical conditions.
Electrochemical reactivity of 2,2',5,5'-tetrahydroxybiphenyl and related compounds adsorbed at pt (111) surfaces: studies by eels, leed, auger spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry

Abstract Adsorption and surface electrode reactions of a family of compounds containing the hydroquinone moiety, namely 2,2',5,5'-tetrahydroxybiphenyl (THBP), 2,5-dihydroxy-4-methylbenzylmercaptan (DMBM) and hydroquinone (HQ), have been studied at well-defined Pt (111) surfaces by means of cyclic voltammetry assisted by electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), Auger electron spectroscopy and low-energy electron diffraction (LEED). Packing densities of THBP measured by Auger spectroscopy indicated adsorption predominantly with the rings parallel to the surface, although reversible electroactivity of the layer increased with increasing THBP concentration, indicating a small fraction of verticallyoriented molecules. In contrast, DMBM is adsorbed entirely through its sulfur atom with its ring perpendicular to the surface; the pendant 2,5-diphenyl moiety in adsorbed DMBM was reversibly electroactive. Adsorbed HQ was not reversibly electroactive at any adsorbate concentration. Vibrational spectra of the adsorbed species were obtained by means of EELS, and were compared with the infrared spectra of the parent compounds in KBr. EELS and IR spectra were closely similar except where adsorption changed the nature of the molecule: based upon virtual absence of the characteristic EELS O-H stretching band (near 3500 cm −1 ), the phenolic hydroxyl hydrogens of HQ and the horizontallyoriented form of THBP were removed upon adsorption, as was the mercaptan sulfhydryl hydrogen of DMBM. The EELS bands of polar groups such as OH are not broadened to the same extent as in the IR spectra of the solid compounds, evidently due to lesser intermolecular hydrogen bonding among such groups at the surface. LEED observations indicated that the THBP layer was structurally diffuse, while HQ formed a Pt (111) (3×3)-HQ adlattice and DMBM formed a Pt (111) (23 0.5 × 2 0.5 )R30 °-DMBM adlattice at packing densities slightly below saturation. Adsorbate orientation and mode of surface bonding exert a systematic influence on the product distribution of electrocatalytic oxidation of these well-characterized adsorbed organic intermediates, based upon cyclic voltammetry and potential-step chronocoulometry experiments. Also, these results have revealed that evacuation does not alter the composition or electrochemical properties of the chemisorbed layer formed from solution.
DNA binding specificity of the wheat bZIP protein EmBP-1

Abstract EmBP-1 is a wheat DNA binding protein of the basic leucine zipper (bZIP) class of transcription factors implicated in the mechanisms of abscisic acid mediated gene activation. Understanding the role of EmBP-1 in regulating gene transcription requires elucidation of its DNA binding specificity. The binding of EmBP-1 was studied using gel shift selection of DNA from random sequence pools. DNA binding sites were identified by sequencing of a selected pool and by cloning and sequencing individual sites. The binding sites were compared by mobility shift assay and DNase I footprinting, which show that EmBP-1 binds to a family of sequences with varying degrees of affinity. The highest affinity site bound by EmBP-1 is the palindrome GCCACGTGGC. EmBP-1 also binds several other sequences with high affinity, however most of these are asymmetric. While nearly all sequences bound by EmBP-1 contain an ACGT core sequence, EmBP-1 can also bind at least two sites with altered cores. These results provide a basis for comparing the DNA binding specificity of EmBP-1 with those of other plant bZIP proteins and provide insight into the possible target sites which EmBP-1 might bind in vivo.
Union decertification election outcomes: Bargaining unit characteristics and union resources

Previous analysis using aggregate data has concluded that union decertification activity is “exclusively a product of market conditions.” We employ data disaggregated by local (county) labor market which permits a preliminary investigation of the importance of potential nonmarket influences that are not measurable using aggregate data, namely, the type of bargaining unit, the type of union, the type of employer, and proxies for union resources. It also allows a more precise specification of the labor market characteristics previously found to influence decertification. Our results confirm the importance of market conditions in decertification activity and outcomes, but they also suggest that the likelihood of decertification is much greater in independent unions and in industry-county combinations in which the typical employee works part-time and has limited alternative income opportunities. Institutional characteristics of the union and employer, individual characteristics of bargaining unit members, and local economic conditions are important determinants of decertification.
An assimilation analysis of clinician-assisted emotional disclosure therapy with survivors of intimate partner sexual assault

This study examined clinician-assisted emotional disclosure therapy among college women with a history of intimate partner sexual assault. Assimilation analysis, a method for tracking client movement in psychotherapy, was used to document changes in dominant and submissive voices during clients’ disclosure of the trauma. Self-blame, traditional gender-role assumptions, and internalized rape myth ideology emerged as prominent themes in clients’ formations of problem statements. The two case studies presented illustrate the difficulty in clearly formulating experiences of intimate partner sexual assault as problematic, integrating submissive and dominant voices and empowering adaptive voices that speak for the well-being and self-assertion of the individual. Implications for psychotherapy with survivors of intimate partner sexual assault are discussed.
High-Resolution Simulations of Wintertime Precipitation in the Colorado Headwaters Region: Sensitivity to Physics Parameterizations

AbstractAn investigation was conducted on the effects of various physics parameterizations on wintertime precipitation predictions using a high-resolution regional climate model. The objective was to evaluate the sensitivity of cold-season mountainous snowfall to cloud microphysics schemes, planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes, land surface schemes, and radiative transfer schemes at a 4-km grid spacing applicable to the next generation of regional climate models.The results indicated that orographically enhanced precipitation was highly sensitive to cloud microphysics parameterizations. Of the tested 7 parameterizations, 2 schemes clearly outperformed the others that overpredicted the snowfall amount by as much as ~30%–60% on the basis of snow telemetry observations. Significant differences among these schemes were apparent in domain averages, spatial distributions of hydrometeors, latent heating profiles, and cloud fields. In comparison, model results showed relatively weak dependency on the land surfa...
Assembleability Analysis Using GapSpace Model for 2D Mechanical Assembly

The most fundamental, and perhaps most important, task in tolerance analysis is to test whether or not the components with tolerances are actually able to fit together. This problem doesn’t get much explicit attention because it is implicitly included in current tolerance analysis methods. However, for complex assemblies, especially for over-constrained assemblies, the implicit assumptions of assembly may not be valid. This paper proposes an assembly model, called GapSpace, which can capture the necessary and sufficient conditions needed to execute assembleability analysis. Assembleability analyses for both nominal components and those with tolerances are presented using the GapSpace model. Both worst case and statistical analyses are performed. The model and its attendant solution methods are more suitable to GD&T tolerancing than traditional plus/minus tolerancing.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
International Market Reentry: A Review and Research Framework

Abstract Firms may exit international markets because of various factors, such as changes in the market's environment, dissatisfaction, lack of achievement of objectives, or extreme competition. Exiting a foreign market permanently, however, may not always be the best decision. In some cases reentering the same market can be rewarding for firms vying for global expansion and growth. The authors present a knowledge utilization framework for international market reentry, along with an international market reentry matrix that encompasses host country attractiveness, risk, and firm resources and capabilities. The article qualitatively evaluates a sample of firms for their return to previously exited international markets and discusses the lessons learned from their experience.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection due to Serratia marcescens

Serratia marcescens is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacillus that is most often associated with infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, wounds, and bloodstream. Infections of the central nervous system (CNS) with this pathogen are exceedingly infrequent. Even more rare is the association of S. marcescens with infections of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts. To the best of our knowledge, we describe in this report not only the first case of a VP shunt infection by S. marcescens in an adult, but also the first case of a VP shunt infection by this organism in the absence of bowel perforation.
ENHANCED REVERSE SATURABLE ABSORPTION AND OPTICAL LIMITING IN HEAVY-ATOM-SUBSTITUTED PHTHALOCYANINES

The reverse saturable absorption and optical limiting response of metal phthalocyaninies can be enhanced by using the heavy-atom effect. Phthalocyanines containing heavy metal atoms, such as In, Sn, and Pb show nearly a factor of two enhancement in the ratio of effective excited-state to ground-state absorption cross sections compared to those containing lighter atoms, such as Al and Si. In an f/8 optical geometry, homogeneous solutions of heavy metal phthalocyanines, at 30% linear transmission, limit 8-ns, 532-nm laser pulses to less than or equal to 3 (micro)J (the energy for 50% probability of eye damage) for incident pulses up to 800 (micro)J.
Electrocardiographically indicated cardiovascular disease in sleep-disordered breathing

The evidence for a role of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in cardiovascular disease (CVD) is inconclusive and limited to clinic-based studies or population-based studies using historical CVD data. The authors investigated cross-sectional association of SDB, assessed by overnight polysomnography and described by frequency of apnea/hypopnea episodes (Apnea–Hypopnea Index, AHI), with screen-detected CVD consisting of cardiologist-confirmed, electrocardiographically indicated coronary artery disease (ECG-CAD), left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG-LVH), arrhythmias, and conduction abnormalities in a general population. Using multiple logistic regression with adjustments for covariables, there was no significant association of AHI with ECG-CAD, ECG-LVH by voltage, arrhythmias, or conduction abnormalities. There was, however, an association between AHI and ECG-LVH by Cornell criteria. Using AHI as categorical variable, the adjusted odds of ECG-CAD in AHI ≥ 5 vs <5 was increased, but not significantly, at 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67, 2.51. The adjusted odds of ECG-LVH by Cornell criteria in AHI ≥ 15 vs <5 was significant at 3.19, 95% CI 1.16, 8.76. The authors found a weak or no association between screen-detected CVD and sleep apnea, but did find a threefold increased odds of screen-detected LVH, using Cornell criteria, in moderate or worse SDB. These findings contribute to accumulating evidence of possible association between CVD and sleep apnea in the general population and underscore the need to better understand how SDB affects cardiovascular pathology.
Self-esteem as an influence on occupational choice and occupational satisfaction

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role of self-esteem in occupational choice behavior. It was predicted that self-esteem would be positively related to the degree of self-occupational congruence, and that self-esteem would moderate the relationship between congruence and occupational satisfaction. It was also predicted that self-esteem would moderate the relationship between occupational satisfaction and several indices of social influence. Participants in the study were 228 college undergraduates. Although the relationship between self-esteem and congruence was nonsignificant, the moderating effects of self-esteem did receive some support. It was tentatively concluded that high self-esteem persons tend to look at their own needs and relevant attributes in determing the satisfaction with their occupational choice, whereas low self-esteem persons look more toward external cues.
Recombinant Human Growth Hormone (rhGH) Downregulates Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Burns

Introduction. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) have both been shown to increase albumin serum concentrations after major injury. However, the effect of rhGH on HGF production after injury is unknown. We postulated that rhGH effects constitutive protein concentrations by inducing HGF expression. Methods. In order to determine a dose response, 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats received three different concentrations of rhGH 1, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg and a saline treatment. Rats were sacrificed 10 days after burn and serum albumin and HGF plasma concentrations were measured. Eighty male Sprague-Dawley rats received a 60% TBSA third-degree scald burn injury and were randomly divided into three groups, control, burn plus saline treatment, or burn plus rhGH treatment (2.5 mg/ kg SQ qD). Rats were sacrificed 2, 5, 7, and 14 days after burn, and serum albumin, plasma, and hepatic tissue HGF concentrations were determined (ELISA, Institute of Immunology, Tokyo, Japan). Results, At 10 days postburn serum albumin levels were significantly increased with rhGH 2.5 mg/kg treatment (P < 0.05); however, HGF plasma concentrations were significantly decreased with a dose of 5 mg/ kg of rhGH compared to control and rhGH 1.0 mg/kg (P < 0.05). Serum albumin concentrations decreased immediately after burn and remained low until at least the 14th day after injury. RhGH-treated animals had higher levels of albumin on Day 7 after burn (P < 0.05). Plasma HGF levels decreased immediately after burn, but increased after the second day postburn. Beginning on the 5th day after injury, HGF levels in non-rhGH-treated rats were significantly higher compared to those in rhGH-treated rats (P < 0.05). Hepatic tissue HGF concentrations were higher in non-rhGH-treated rats compared to rhGH treated animals 7 days after burn (P < 0.01). Conclusion. Although rhGH treatment improves constitutive protein synthesis, rhGH decreases HGF concentration in a dose-dependent manner. The improvements in constitutive protein concentrations do not occur via a HGF dependent pathway.
Cohen cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation: is a one-year postoperative renal ultrasound scan necessary after normal initial postoperative ultrasound findings?

Objectives To determine the utility of the 1-year postoperative renal ultrasound scan in children undergoing uncomplicated Cohen cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation. Methods A retrospective review of 108 patients (233 ureters) who had undergone uncomplicated Cohen cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation during a 6.5-year period with a postoperative follow-up of 1 year was performed. Renal ultrasound scans were obtained at 1 month and 1 year postoperatively. Results Of the 108 patients who had undergone ureteral reimplantation, 26 patients (24%) had mild to moderate hydronephrosis at 1 month postoperatively. Of these 26 patients, 20 had preexisting hydronephrosis and 6 had new hydronephrosis. Of the 20 patients with preoperative hydronephrosis, 19 (95%) had similar hydronephrosis on the 1-month postoperative ultrasound scan and in 1 (5%), the hydronephrosis had resolved. At 1 year, 13 (69%) of the 20 patients with preoperative hydronephrosis had stable hydronephrosis, and it resolved in 6 (31%). In the 6 patients with new-onset hydronephrosis at 1 month postoperatively, the hydronephrosis had resolved by 1 year in 4 patients (67%) and was mild in 2 (33%). Three patients developed transient obstruction requiring stent placement. Conclusions It has been recommended that a renal ultrasound scan be obtained in children 1 year after open ureteral reimplantation to rule out delayed obstruction. Our results suggest this is of low yield in patients with uncomplicated open ureteral reimplantation.
[Comment on “Natural and man-made hazards”]“Hazards Session” wins support

Joseph V. Smith's ‘Hazards session’ proposal (Eos, September 14, Forum section) was very interesting and well worth serious consideration by AGU. Scientists should become more active in public affairs, especially in providing the scientific facts that can contribute to rational public decisions. The proposed special sessions would have even more impact if they were followed by a published summary that could be presented to appropriate public officials. In addition to the list provided by Smith, there are a number of hydrologic hazards, such as floods, that could be considered. A hazard of special interest to me is land subsidence, or land-surface sinking. To a large extent this is a man-induced hazard resulting from the withdrawal of water, oil, or gas from subsurface zones and which can create, for example, such serious conditions as the 9m (29 ft) of subsidence that has occurred since 1925 in the San Joaquin Valley, California (see cover). Because subsidence frequently occurs so subtly and slowly that it does not make news headlines, the public doesn't become concerned until the situation is of crisis proportions.
The potential influence of organizational and personal variables on customer‐oriented selling

Recent research investigating customer‐oriented selling has indicated that greater attention needs to be focused on organizational or personal antecedents influencing customer‐oriented selling behaviors. Similar to most other departments, a selling department’s environment would include its goals, objectives, and culture, as well as the behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes of top and middle management. Through its corporate culture and environment, the organization’s expectations and requirements are transmitted to its employees, who then implement the organization’s policies and carry out organizational strategies. Therefore, it is apparent that both individual internal environment perceptions and managerial leadership styles could possibly have a significant impact on the level of customer‐oriented selling behavior exhibited by salespeople. Three organizational or personal variables likely related to customer‐oriented selling are examined in the present study. The variables include sales manager leadership style, psychological climate, and empowerment. Each of the variables, and an explanation of its expected relationship with customer‐oriented selling, is explored. Implications for managers from these potential relationships are also provided.
The Instructional Dynamics of a Bilingual Teacher One Teacher's Beliefs About English Language Learners

This article discusses the qualitative study of a bilingual teacher's practice in working with a student with a learning disability. The author first examines student demographics as they specifically relate to the achievement of Latino school children and then segues to an examination of the nature of instruction provided to English language learners and the beliefs associated with one teacher's instructional practices.
The immersed boundary-lattice Boltzmann method for solving fluid-particles interaction problems

A new computational method, the immersed boundary-lattice Boltzmann method, is presented. This method is a combination and utilizes the most desirable features of the lattice Boltzmann and the immersed boundary methods. The method uses a regular Eulerian grid for the flow domain and a Lagrangian grid to follow particles that are contained in the flow field. The rigid body conditions for the fluid and the particles are enforced by a penalty method, which assumes that the particle boundary is deformable with a high stiffness constant. The velocity field of the fluid and particles is solved by adding a force density term into the lattice Boltzmann equation. This novel method preserves the advantages of LBM in tracking a group of particles and, at the same time, provides an alternative and better approach to treating the solid-fluid boundary conditions. The method also solves the problems of fluctuation of the forces and velocities on the particles when the "bounce-back" boundary conditions are applied. This method enables one to simulate problems with particle deformation and fluid-structure deformation. Its results are validated by comparison with results from other methods.
Referral patterns for the treatment of facial trauma in teaching hospitals in the United States.

Abstract Purpose: The management of facial trauma is considered an integral part of the training of several specialties, including general plastic surgery, otolaryngology, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. Referral patterns of patients who have sustained facial trauma to these various specialty services, however, vary at different institutions according to physician preferences and protocols. The purpose of this project was to examine the referral patterns of facial trauma in the United States at teaching hospitals. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire survey of physician-chiefs of emergency or trauma services at teaching hospitals was carried out. Scenarios involving a variety of facial injury patterns were presented, and a hypothetical referral was requested. In addition, questions regarding preferences and opinions regarding the various services were included. Results: Most teaching hospitals had a formal protocol for the referral of patients with facial injuries. With the exception of mandible fractures, referral patterns for patients with facial injuries were relatively even across the 3 specialties. Interestingly, only 56% of respondents would seek the same referral for themselves or relatives in the same way as they would refer a patient based on their in-house protocol. In regard to timeliness, efficiency, and perceived competency in the handling of facial trauma, oral and maxillofacial surgery had statistically significant higher scores than otolarygology and plastic surgery, which were not statistically distinguishable between each other. Conclusions: All 3 specialties appear to be involved in the management of facial trauma at teaching institutions in the United States; therefore, it seems unlikely that any one specialty will be singled out as the sole provider of these services at all institutions. © 2003 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofacial Surg 61:557-560, 2003
Visualizing time-varying features with TAC-based distance fields

To analyze time-varying data sets, tracking features over time is often necessary to better understand the dynamic nature of the underlying physical process. Tracking 3D time-varying features, however, is non-trivial when the boundaries of the features cannot be easily defined. In this paper, we propose a new framework to visualize time-varying features and their motion without explicit feature segmentation and tracking. In our framework, a time-varying feature is described by a time series or Time Activity Curve (TAC). To compute the distance, or similarity, between a voxel's time series and the feature, we use the Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) distance metric. The purpose of DTW is to compare the shape similarity between two time series with an optimal warping of time so that the phase shift of the feature in time can be accounted for. After applying DTW to compare each voxel's time series with the feature, a time-invariant distance field can be computed. The amount of time warping required for each voxel to match the feature provides an estimate of the time when the feature is most likely to occur. Based on the TAC-based distance field, several visualization methods can be derived to highlight the position and motion of the feature. We present several case studies to demonstrate and compare the effectiveness of our framework.
Hydrocarbon blend membranes with suppressed chemical crossover for redox flow batteries

A hydrocarbon blend membrane consisting of an acidic polymer (sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone), SPEEK) and a basic polymer (polysulfone-2-amide-benzimidazole, PSf-ABIm) has been prepared and assessed in vanadium redox flow batteries (VRBs). The vanadium ion (VO)2+ permeability through the blend membrane is about 50 times lower than that of Nafion 117 and 4 times lower than that of the plain SPEEK. The Coulombic efficiency and energy efficiency of the single cell with the blend membrane are higher than those with Nafion and plain SPEEK membranes. The blend membrane also shows better chemical stability than plain SPEEK. The results demonstrate that blend membranes of this type are promising for VRBs.
Trends in Surgical Management of Stress Urinary Incontinence Among Female Medicare Beneficiaries

Objective To describe trends in the surgical management of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in the United States from 2002 to 2007. Methods As part of the Urologic Diseases of America Project, we analyzed data from a 5% national random sample of female Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older. Data were obtained from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services carrier and outpatient files from 2002 to 2007. Women who were diagnosed with urinary incontinence identified by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Edition (ICD-9) diagnosis codes and who underwent surgical management identified by Current Procedural Terminology, Fourth Edition (CPT-4) procedure codes were included in the analysis. Trends were analyzed over the 6-year period. Unweighted procedure counts were multiplied by 20 to estimate the rate among all female Medicare beneficiaries. Results The total number of surgical procedures remained stable during the study period, from 49,340 in 2002 to 49,900 in 2007. Slings were the most common procedure across all years, which increased from 25,840 procedures in 2002 to 33,880 procedures in 2007. Injectable bulking agents were the second most common procedure, which accounted for 14,100 procedures in 2002 but decreased to 11,320 in 2007. Procedures performed in ambulatory surgery centers and physician offices increased, although those performed in inpatient settings declined. Hospital outpatient procedures remained stable. Conclusion The surgical management of women with SUI shifted toward a dominance of procedures performed in ambulatory surgery centers from 2002 to 2007, although the overall number of procedures remained stable. Slings remained the dominant surgical procedure, followed by injectable bulking agents, both of which are easily performed in outpatient settings.
Towards automatic construction of staged compilers

Some compilation systems, such as offline partial evaluators and selective dynamic compilation systems, support staged optimizations. A staged optimization is one where a logically single optimization is broken up into stages, with the early stage(s) performing preplanning set-up work, given any available partial knowledge about the program to be compiled, and the final stage completing the optimization. The final stage can be much faster than the original optimization by having much of its work performed by the early stages. A key limitation of current staged optimizers is that they are written by hand, sometimes in an ad hoc manner. We have developed a framework called the Staged Compilation Framework (SCF) for systematically and automatically converting single-stage optimizations into staged versions. The framework is based on a combination of aggressive partial evaluation and dead-assignment elimination. We have implemented SCF in Standard ML. A preliminary evaluation shows that SCF can speed up classical optimization of some commonly used C functions by up to 12× (and typically between 4.5× and 5.5×).
"Whippets"-induced vitamin B12 deficiency and dorsal column degeneration.

A 32 year old pregnant woman at 11 th week gestation presented with 2 weeks of progressive gait difficulty and ascending weakness. Patient admitted to recreational inhalation of nitrous oxide from whipped-cream bulbs “whippets”. On examination, she had mild weakness in her extremities. Laboratory examination was significant for a low serum cobalamin (vitamin B12) level. Furthermore, homocysteine and methylmalonic acid were elevated. Parietal cell and intrinsic factor antibodies were negative. She was started on vitamin B12 injections and transferred to an acute rehabilitation facility.
A New Approach to Assess the Retention of Allergen (Der f 1 and Der p 1) on Anionic and Nonanionic Cotton Bedding Sheets After a Vigorous Sequential Cleaning Regime as Assessed by ELISA

Anionic surfaces can interact with a variety of biological molecules and when used on bedding material may have the potential of binding with and sequestering protein allergens such as those produced by dust mites. However, no method exists to evaluate the efficacy of this claim. The purpose of this study was to develop a method using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to evaluate the capability of anionic treated cotton bedding sheet material to retain medically important dust mite allergens in direct comparison with nonanionic cotton bedding sheet material from a single manufacturer. Anionic, and nonanionic cotton bedding sheets were challenged singularly with water suspended pulverized dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae, water suspended pulverized dust mite D. pteronyssinus, or water alone as a negative control. All dried inoculums were subjected to four sequential extraction series using water in the first two separate extractions and water with surfactant in the last two separate extractions. ...
Parkinsons disease and the control of size and speed in handwriting

Abstract This experiment investigated whether Parkinsons disease (PD) patients experience problems in producing stroke size, stroke duration or both, in a handwriting task. Thirteen PD patients and 15 elderly controls wrote four patterns of varying complexity on a digitizer .tablet. The participants were instructed to execute the writing movements: at a normal size and speed; as fast as possible; two times larger than normal; and two times larger and as fast as possible. PD patients had no difficulty increasing speed while maintaining size and had no difficulty increasing size while maintaining speed. However, they showed significantly smaller size increases in the two times larger condition as compared to the elderly controls. The conditions were also simulated by a neural network model of normal and PD movement control that produced a stroke pattern that approximated the experimental data. For the instructions used, the results suggest that when patients scale speed, they have no difficulty controlling force amplitude, but when they scale stroke size, they have a problem controlling force amplitude. Thus, PD patients may have reduced capability to maintain a given force level for the stroke time periods tested with the instructions.
Clinical outcomes of ED patients with bandemia.

Abstract Background Although an elevated white blood cell count is a widely utilized measure for evidence of infection and an important criterion for evaluation of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, its component band count occupies a more contested position within clinical emergency medicine. Recent studies indicate that bandemia is highly predictive of a serious infection, suggesting that clinicians who do not appreciate the value of band counts may delay diagnosis or overlook severe infections. Objectives Whereas previous studies focused on determining the quantitative value of the band count (ie, determining sensitivity, threshold for bandemia, etc.), this study directs attention to patient-centered outcomes, hypothesizing that the degree of bandemia predisposes patients to subsequent negative clinical outcomes associated with underappreciated severe infections. Methods This retrospective study of electronic medical records includes patients who initially presented to the emergency department (ED) with bandemia and were subsequently discharged from the ED. These patients were screened for repeat ED visits within 7 days and death within 30 days. Results In patients with severe bandemia who were discharged from the ED, there was a 20.9% revisit rate at 7 days and a 4.9% mortality rate at 30 days, placing severely bandemic patients at 5 times significantly greater mortality compared to nonbandemic patients ( P = .032). Conclusion Our review of patient outcomes suggests that the degree of bandemia, especially in the setting of concurrent tachycardia or fever, is associated with greater likelihood of negative clinical outcomes.
Towards an automated checked baggage inspection system augmented with robots

We present a novel system for enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of checked baggage screening process at airports. The system requirements address the identification and retrieval of objects of interest that are prohibited in a checked luggage. The automated testbed is comprised of a Baxter research robot designed by Rethink Robotics for luggage and object manipulation, and a down-looking overhead RGB-D sensor for inspection and detection. We discuss an overview of current system implementations, areas of opportunity for improvements, robot system integration challenges, details of the proposed software architecture and experimental results from a case study for identifying various kinds of lighters in checked bags.
Formalisms for Electron Exchange Kinetics in Aqueous Solution, and the Role of Ab Initio Techniques in Their Implementation

Formalisms suitable for calculating the rate of electron exchange between transition metal complexes in aqueous solution are reviewed and implemented in conjunction with ab initio quantum chemical calculations which provide crucial off-diagonal Hamiltonian matrix elements as well as other relevant electronic structural data. Rate constants and activation parameters are calculated for the hex-aquo Fe2 +-Fe3+ system, using a simple activated complex theory, a non-adiabatic semi-classical model which includes nuclear tunnelling, and a more detailed quantum mechanical method based on the Golden Rule. Comparisons are made between calculated results and those obtained by extrapolating experimental data to zero ionic strength. All methods yield similar values for the overall rate constant (a 0.1 L/(mol-sec)). The experimental activation parameters (δHd and δSd) are in somewhat better agreement with the semi classical and quantum mechanical results than with those from the simple activated complex theory, thereby providing some indication that non-adiabaticity and nuclear tunnelling may be important in the Fe2+/3+ exchange reaction. It is concluded that a model based on direct metal-metal overlap can account for the observed reaction kinetics provided the reactants are allowed to approach well within the traditional contact distance of 6.9 a. 6 figures, 7 tables.
In Situ-Grown ZnCo2O4 on Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Air Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Lithium-Oxygen Batteries.

Although lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) batteries have great potential to be used as one of the next generation energy storage systems due to their ultrahigh theoretical specific energy, there are still many significant barriers before their practical applications. These barriers include electrolyte and electrode instability, poor ORR/OER efficiency and cycling capability, etc. Development of a highly efficient catalyst will not only enhance ORR/OER efficiency, it may also improve the stability of electrolyte because the reduced charge voltage. Here we report the synthesis of nano-sheet-assembled ZnCo2O4 spheres/single walled carbon nanotubes (ZCO/SWCNTs) composites as high performance air electrode materials for Li-O2 batteries. The ZCO catalyzed SWCNTs electrodes delivered high discharge capacities, decreased the onset of oxygen evolution reaction by 0.9 V during charge processes, and led to more stable cycling stability. These results indicate that ZCO/SWCNTs composite can be used as highly efficient air electrode for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. The highly enhanced catalytic activity by uniformly dispersed ZnCo2O4 catalyst on nanostructured electrodes is expected to inspire
Landscapes of triumphalism, reconciliation, and reclamation: memorializing the aftermath of the Dakota-U.S. War of 1862

The Dakota-U.S. War of 1862 resulted in the largest mass public execution in U.S. history and the forced exile of Dakota people from their homeland. Drawing on work on memorials and commemoration in cultural geography, we explore how events in the immediate aftermath of the conflict have been remembered and marked in the landscape of southern and central Minnesota. Through three case-studies we show how various material practices and discourses of remembrance have emerged in different communities at different times and on different scales. While markers and statuary commemorating Taoyateduta (Chief Little Crow) in the town of Hutchinson represent a triumphalist discourse, memorials at the site of the mass public hanging of 38 Dakota warriors in Mankato have sought reconciliation and mutual forgiveness between European Americans and Dakota people. Unlike these permanent site-specific memorials, the biennial Dakota Commemorative March physically retraces the 150-mile forced march of Dakota women, children, ...
Study on Mathematical Model of Radial Runout Error

According to the standard definition of radial circular error, set up any space surface radial runout errors of least squares mathematics model. The coordinate origin of the model can be freely selected, nor equal angle interval among discrete sampling points. Analysis by computer simulation, results show that the model developed is right and pratical. On the basis of mathematical models, using four direct algorithm for unconstrained optimization, radial runout errors can be evaluated in accordance with the minimum conditions. Mathematical models can be used for three-coordinate measuring machine and also available for other intelligent instrument for measuring parts of the radial runout errors.
Pulmonary Function in Obese Subjects With a Normal FEV1/FVC Ratio

Study objective To determine pulmonary function test (PFT) profile and respiratory muscle strength (RMS) of a group of obese individuals who did not have evidence of obstructive airway disease or other underlying diseases affecting their respiratory system. Design Prospective, open. Setting PFT laboratory, VA Medical Center. Participants Sixty-three consecutive obese (body mass index greater than 27.8 kg/m 2 ) male subjects without overt obstructive airway disease (FEV 1 /FVC ratio greater than 80%). Measurements and results Standard PFTs and maximum static inspiratory (PImax) and expiratory (PEmax) mouth pressures were determined. RMS was calculated from the following formula: (PImax+PEmax):2. Two distinct groups were identified, those with normal maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) (>80% predicted) and those with low MVV. Both inspiratory and expiratory flow rates (FVC, FEV 1 , forced expiratory flow at 50% vital capacity [V50], maximum inspiratory flow rate [MIFR]), lung volumes (vital capacity [VC], inspiratory capacity [IC], expiratory reserve volume), PImax, and RMS were significantly lower, and residual volume/total lung capacity (RV/TLC) ratio was significantly higher in obese subjects with low MVV compared with those in whom MVV was normal. MVV correlated significantly with FVC, FEV 1 , V 50 , MIFR, TLC, VC, IC, RV/TLC, and RMS; the strongest correlation was with MIFR (r=0.76, p Conclusions Standard PFTs allow recognition of a subgroup of obese subjects without overt obstructive airway disease who have more severe lung dysfunction, the marker of which is a low MVV. Peripheral airway abnormalities may be responsible for these observations.
Antifungal susceptibility testing. New technology and clinical applications.

The state of the art for susceptibility testing of yeasts is comparable with that of bacteria. Standardized methods for performing antifungal susceptibility testing are reproducible, accurate, and available in clinical laboratories. The development of quality control limits and interpretive criteria for a limited number of antifungal agents provides a basis for the application of this testing in the clinical laboratory. A proficiency testing program is available as a quality assurance measure for laboratories and has documented steady improvement among laboratories using the NCCLS method. As with antibacterial agents, surveillance programs are now in place using reference quality testing methods to monitor antifungal resistance trends on a global scale. It is clear that antifungal susceptibility testing can predict outcome in several clinical situations. Susceptibility testing is most helpful in dealing with infection caused by non-albicans species of Candida, and susceptibility testing of azoles is increasingly important in the management of candidiasis in critically ill patients. Susceptibility testing also has been standardized for filamentous fungi that cause invasive infections. Studies are ongoing to further refine this approach and evaluate the in vivo correlation with the in vitro data for molds. Future efforts must be directed toward establishing and validating interpretive break-points for licensed antifungals such as amphotericin B, and for new antifungals that are not yet licensed. Finally, procedures must be optimized for testing non-Candida yeasts (e.g., C. neoformans) and molds.
Russia's Power and Alliances in the 21st Century

Russia's power resources have recovered significantly since the start of the twenty-first century and with that recovery the Kremlin has become more assertive in pursuing its great power ambitions. To remain a great power, however, even a regional one, Russia has to recover its economy and learn to exploit its comparative advantages, such as expertise in energy and military affairs and memberships in international organisations.