cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Stability of the Classical Nusselt Problem of Film Condensation and Wave Effects

Accurate steady and unsteady numerical solutions of the full two-dimensional (2D) governing equations for the Nusselt problem (film condensation of quiescent saturated vapor on a vertical wall) are presented and related to known results. The problem, solved accurately up to film Reynolds number of 60 Re60, establishes various features of the well-known steady solution and reveals the interesting phenomena of stability, instability, and nonlinear wave effects. It is shown that intrinsic flow instabilities cause the wave effects to grow over the well-known experiments-based range of Re30. The wave effects due to film flow’s sensitivity to ever-present minuscule transverse vibrations of the condensing surface are also described. The results suggest some ways of choosing wall noise—through suitable actuators—that can enhance or dampen wave fluctuations and thus increase or decrease heat transfer rates over the laminar-to-turbulent transition zone. DOI: 10.1115/1.2198249
Street children in North and Latin America: preliminary data from Proyecto Alternativos in Tegucigalpa and some comparisons with the U.S. case.

The decade of the 1980s witnessed a dramatic transformation in the character of homelessness in the United States and elsewhere in the developed world. Whereas in previous decades the U.S. homeless were predominantly older, largely white, brokendown alcoholic men (or at least were stereotypified as such), today a sizable fraction are women and children. Indeed, women, children, and youth now comprise more than three-eighths of the total homeless population of the United States (Wright 1989). As the U.S. homeless have come to be comprised of proportionally more women and children, so have they come more and more to resemble the street populations of the Third World, where homelessness, family disorganization, exploitation, and abandonment of children have become increasingly important problems during the past decade.
Nonenzymatic Functions of Acetylcholinesterase Splice Variants in the Developmental Neurotoxicity of Organophosphates: Chlorpyrifos, Chlorpyrifos Oxon, and Diazinon

BackgroundOrganophosphate pesticides affect mammalian brain development through mechanisms separable from the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzymatic activity and resultant cholinergic ...
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the mediastinum

Fine-needle aspiration is a useful technique to identify neoplasms of many sites, such as breast, thyroid, and lung. Thirty-two mediastinum aspirates from 29 patients were reviewed. Five aspirates yielded insufficient material. Five aspirates were of benign lesions. Four aspirates were suggestive of but not diagnostic of malignancy. Eighteen aspirates contained malignant cells; in 13 of these, a definite cell type was identified, which usually was metastatic lung carcinoma; in five instances, the cell type could not be unequivocally identified. Complications were minimal, two instances of pneumothorax (6.3 percent) and two of hemoptysis (6.3 percent). No deaths or hemorrhage occurred. In 16 of the 29 patients (55 percent), thoracotomy was avoided because of fine-needle aspiration biopsy. It is concluded that fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the mediastinum is a safe, useful diagnostic tool. This procedure may obviate the need for thoracotomy in persons with inoperable cancer, thus lowering medical costs and length of hospital stay.
Gas-phase reactivity and molecular modeling studies on triply protonated dodecapeptides that contain four basic residues

Gas-phase deprotonation and hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange reactions for ions from three model dodecapeptides were studied by Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. Molecular dynamics calculations were employed to provide information on conformations and Coulomb energies. The peptides, (KGG)4, (K2G4)2, and K4G8, each contain four high basicity lysine residues and eight low basicity glycine residues; however, in the present work only three lysine residues were protonated. Proton transfer reactions with a series of reference amines revealed apparent gas-phase acidities in a narrow range of 207.3-209.6 kcal/mol, with deprotonation efficiencies following the order [K4G8 + 3H]3+ > [(KGG)4 + 3H]3+ > [(K2G4)2 + 3H]3+. The three ions also react similarly with d4-methanol: each exchanged a maximum of 23-25 of their 25 labile hydrogens, with the first 15-17 exchanges occurring at rate constants of (1.6-2.6) x 10(-11) cm3 molecule-1 s-1. The experimental results agree with molecular modeling findings of similar conformations and Coulomb energies for the three peptide ions. The [M + 3H]3+ data are compared to data obtained previously in our laboratory for the "fully" protonated [M + 4H]4+ (Zhang, X.; Ewing, N. P.; Cassady, C. J. Int. J. Mass Spectrom. Ion Phys., in press). For (KGG)4 and (K2G4)2, there is a marked difference in H/D exchange reactivity between 3+ ions and 4+ ions. The 4+ ions, which have diffuse conformations, slowly exchange only 14 hydrogens, whereas their more compact 3+ counterparts exchange 23-25 hydrogens at a 5-times greater rate. In contrast, the 3+ and 4+ ions of K4G8 have similar compact conformations and exchange reactivity. The results indicate that a multiply hydrogen-bonded intermediate between the deuterating reagent and the peptide ion is necessary for facile H/D exchange. The slower, incomplete H/D exchange of [(KGG)4 + 4H]4+ and [(K2G4)2 + 4H]4+ is attributed to the inability of their protonated lysine n-butylamino groups (which extend away from the peptide backbone) to form this intermediate.
Advancing Interprofessional Education: A Qualitative Analysis of Student and Faculty Reflections

Interprofessional education (IPE) is imperative when training health professions students to practice in an environment requiring a team based approach. IPE has not been widely practiced in the United States (US) since its immergence in the 1970’s and waning in the 1980’s.Contemporary curricula, instruction, and IPE activities still need to be tested. This report focuses on the analysis of qualitative feedback collected from faculty and students participating in IPE activities, designed for first year health professions students in the Fall 2010 (n=542), and Fall 2011 (n=555). An interprofessional research team conducted analysis using an immersion/crystallization framework. Eight major themes emerged from comments provided through evaluations of the IPE activities. Students expressed a desire to learn more about roles, skills, and responsibilities of other professions and wanted additional IPE opportunities integrated throughout their education. Skill level of small IPE group facilitators emerged as an important component for successful IPE activities. Lessons learned through this analysis will guide future augmentation of interprofessional activities locally and can be applied at other medical campuses.
Outcome Prediction by MMPI in Subtypes of Anorexia Nervosa

Sixty-seven discharged, chronically anorectic inpatients were followed eight to 60 months after discharge at normal weight: 39 with anorexia nervosa, restricting subtype (ANR), and 27 with anorexia nervosa, bulimic subtype (ANB). The groups did not differ demographically. ANB patients produced more elevated MMPI profiles; they were distinguished by profile type as well as by discriminant function analysis, which identified ANB patients as higher in both depression and impulsivity. Outcome criteria, i.e., follow-up weight, bulimic behavior, social functioning, revealed that 39% of all patients maintained treatment gains while 61% relapsed. Forty-nine percent of ANR patients maintained improvement, compared with only 22% of ANB. Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) profiles did not predict outcome across all patients, but did within each subtype. Successful ANR patients were more distressed and dramatic, while greater distress and impulsivity predicted failure among ANB. Prediction of ability to maintain improvement after inpatient treatment was markedly enhanced by first classifying anorectics into clinical subtypes. Higher subjective distress predicted negative outcome in one group and positive outcome in the other. These results may clarify apparent contradictions in the literature and contribute to more focused treatment.
Power-law to Power-law Mapping of Blazar Spectra from Intergalactic Absorption

We have derived a useful analytic approximation for determining the effect of intergalactic absorption on the γ-ray spectra of TeV blazars the energy range 0.2 TeV < Eγ < 2 TeV and the redshift range 0.05 < z < 0.4. In these ranges, the form of the absorption coeffcient τ (Eγ) is approximately logarithmic. The effect of this energy dependence is to steepen intrinsic source spectra such that a source with an approximate power-law spectral index Γs is converted to one with an observed spectral index Γo Γs + ΔΓ(z) where ΔΓ(z) is a linear function of z in the redshift range 0.05-0.4. We apply this approximation to the spectra of 7 TeV blazars.
The growth of dendrites in the mammalian brain

The histological features of developing dendrites are analyzed in age-graded series of cats, rats, rabbits, and opossums with the Golgi techniques. Growth cones and filopodia are consistent features of growing dendrites in the sensory nuclei, motor cranial nerve nuclei, brain stem reticular formation, cerebellar cortex, midbrain tectum, thalamus, hypothalamus, striatum, olfactory bulb, hippocampus, pyriform lobe, and neopallium. Terminal dendritic growth cones occur at the tips of dendrites; preterminal growth buds occur on the dendritic shafts. Filopodia are conspicuous on the growth cones and buds, but they occur on the dendritic shafts, also. Terminal growth cones, preterminal growth buds, and filopodia associate with incipient dendritic branches. Growth cones and filopodia generally disappear when the neurons are completely differentiated. But some dendritic growth cones persist after the rest of the brain is mature and consequently may be involved in learning and other plastic changes in neural function. The analysis illustrates the following general trends in neural ontogeny, none of which are expressed without modifications and qualifications. The dendrites of the specific types of neurons differentiate in typically circumscribed periods, which occur in a fixed sequence. Within, a specific neuronal population there may be regional gradients in the degree of dendritic differentiation. Within the same region the dendrites of large cell bodies tend to differentiate before those of small cell, bodies. The dendrites of Golgi Type II neurons differentiate later than neurons with long axons from the same thalamic nucleus. In the afferent sensory systems the neurons nearer the peripheral receptors usually begin their differentiation before those nearer the cerebral cortex. The dendrites of phylogenetically older neuronal groups tend to differentiate earlier than those of more advanced or more highly specialized groups. The dendrites and the other post-synaptic surfaces of the neurons differentiate in conjunction with the particular afferent axonal end-branches that are destined to synapse with the dendrites. Dendritic differentiation may be instigated by the afferent axons, controlled by local physico-chemical conditions, and guided by contact with the afferent axonal end-branches.
Management of sleep disturbance associated with atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common childhood skin disease that also affects adults. Sleep problems are frequently associated with AD and negatively affect both patients and their families. Although this problem is well recognized, there are currently limited studies of patients with AD to guide clinical management of sleep disturbances. This targeted review will inform clinicians of the potential therapeutic agents available to manage sleep disturbances and will review literature relevant to improving the sleep of children and adults with AD. On the basis of our clinical experience and the limited data available, we provide a suggested algorithm for clinicians treating sleep problems associated with AD, but clearly more studies are needed to both further characterize the sleep of patients with AD and to test the efficacy and effectiveness of candidate agents in clinical trials.
Time pattern study for a dynamic-type air cushion

In this study, we explore and improve a dynamic-type air cushion system's time pattern in inflation and deflation to achieve an optimal effect of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment. Via analysis and experiments, we found that a two-phase air cushion's optimal, or best, time pattern, which provides its users the most comfort, has an identical inflation and deflation time for the individual phases with their operation durations complementing each other, and the time pattern with the individual phases' inflation time being overlapped with each other ranks second in usage comfort. The time pattern with the two phases' deflation durations being overlapped with each other ranks the lowest in usage comfort.
Targeting Microvasculature for Neuroprotection after SCI

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is characterized by secondary degeneration, which leads to tissue loss at the epicenter and subsequent functional deficits. This review provides insight into the pathophysiology of microvascular dysfunction and endothelial cell loss, which are among the earliest responses during the first postinjury day. The enigmatic role of the angiogenic response in the penumbra around the lost tissue, which occurs during the first 2 weeks, is also discussed. The importance of stabilizing and rescuing the injured vasculature is now well-recognized, and several pharmacological and genetic treatments have emerged in the past few years. We conclude with suggestions for future experimental research, including development of vascular-selective treatments and exploitation of genetic models. In summary, vascular dysfunction following SCI is an important contributor to neurological deficits, as proposed long ago. However, there now appears to be new and potentially powerful opportunities for treating acute SCI by targeting the vascular responses.
Double-folding model analysis of deuteron elastic scattering

Abstract The applicability of the Daehnick et al. global deuteron potential and the validity of treating the deuteron as a spin- 1 2 particle has been investigated. A wide range of deuteron elastic scattering data has been fitted with a double folding model utilizing the M3Y interaction. An average normalization of = 0.87 ± 0.05 was found for the interaction. Some evidence was found for a possible energy and mass dependence of N.
A comparison of human and automated instruction of autistic children

While it appears reasonable to assume that the autistic child might benefit from the development of programmed instruction and teaching machines to teach imitation, concepts, and receptive vocabulary skills, no systematic research to date has seriously investigated such possibilities. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of automated versus teacher-controlled instruction in the education of autistic children. Four autistic children, each with extreme deficits in language, social, and self-care behaviors, were trained on a matching-to-sample task under three different instructional situations within an intrasubject replication design and multiple baseline procedure. Analysis of the data showed the following results: (1) The teacher, manually operating the teaching machine, was able to teach and maintain the matching-to-sample task; (2) the same autistic children did not acquire or maintain the task when taught by the machine alone; and (3) the teacher alone (without the machine) was able to teach and maintain the task. The results suggest that automated instruction may, at least, serve as a valuable aid to teachers of autistic children. However, before machines can be used without the participation of a trained teacher, further research appears necessary. Several areas, including the role of motivation in automated instructional settings, the saliency and effectiveness of reinforcers, and the importance of controlling antecedent stimulus conditions and off-task behavior are discussed as areas of primary concern in the development of automated instruction for autistic children.
Long-term impact of medicare managed care on patients treated for coronary artery disease

Background Planned health insurance reform promises and has started to cut reimbursement to Medicare managed care (MMC) plans. If such plans provide better care, adjusting for possible better health of their enrollees, then such reimbursement changes may have unforeseen quality consequences. Objectives To examine whether long-term follow-up outcomes of patients who receive intensive interventional care for coronary artery disease differed by Medicare plan type. Research design Patient-level postdischarge outcomes were multivariate adjusted logistic functions of a patient's insurance type at time of index admission. Data were retrospective secondary percutaneous coronary intervention data from Pennsylvania with 35,417 index admissions in 2004 to 2005 and in-state follow-up hospitalizations within 12 months and in-state death within 3 years of discharge. Results MMC insured patients had a consistently estimated 3-year survival benefit (relative risk of death 0.91; P value 0.003) compared with traditional Medicare traditional fee for service patients. Results were robust to propensity score stratification, subset analyses, and rich controls for observed confounders. Implausibly large associations (between an unmeasured confounder and both insurance status and outcomes) would have to be hypothesized to fully explain the observed survival benefit. Conclusions Among a large number of Pennsylvanian elderly patients, receiving a very common therapeutic procedure for highly prevalent disease, being insured with MMC was associated with a clinically meaningful long-term survival benefit. Impending health insurance reform that changes the relative attractiveness of MMC plans may have unintended consequences on outcome quality.
Patent information services in Trinidad and Tobago

Abstract This paper describes the patent information services offered in Trinidad and Tobago by the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) — a national institution — and the Patent Information and Documentation Unit of the Caribbean Documentation Centre of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean.
Orbital Theory of Heterolytic Fragmentation and Remote Effects on Nitrogen Inversion Equilibria

From a molecular orbital study of model systems we derive the electronic requirements for the Grob fragmentation. The necessary condition for an allowed fragmentation in an X-C1-C2-C3-N system, or the amino cation +C1-C2-C3-N is the level ordering A below S. This in turn is set by maximal through-bond coupling of the empty cation orbital and the nitrogen lone pair. The conformational dependence of through-bond coupling is exactly that derived by Grob, namely parallel orientation of the cation orbital (or the C-X bond), the C2-C3-σ-bond, and the N-lone-pair. When the C1-C2-C3 and C2-C3-N angles are small, the through-space interaction dominates, reversing the level ordering to S below A, and consequently makes the fragmentation forbidden even though the conformational requirements for it are met. Ring closure becomes allowed. Some examples exploiting this result are presented, as well as procedures for enhancing through-bond coupling and thus fragmentation. The through-bond-effect has also kinetic consequences, allowing the definition of a new type of remote neighbouring group participation operative through bonds and not by direct overlap. The position of equilibria in nitrogen inversion processes should also be influenced by remote substituents which are π-acceptors or donors.
Brain temperature in the calliope hummingbird ( Stellula calliope ): a species lacking a rete mirabile ophthalmicum

1. Hypothalamic and colonic temperature were simultaneously measured in the calliope hummingbird (Stellula calliope). The vascular anatomy of the temporal region of these birds was also examined. 2. At air temperatures below 36°C, calliope hummingbirds regulated their body temperature between 35.6 and 40.6°C. At higher air temperatures, colonic temperature increased. 3. Brain temperature was lower than body temperature at high colonic temperatures (>39.5°C). The body-to-brain temperature difference in birds with high body temperatures averaged 0.73°C and remained relatively constant at all colonic temperatures above 39.5°C. 4. At body temperatures below 39.5°C, brain temperature of calliope hummingbirds exceeded colonic temperature by an average of 1.38°C. The possible explanations for this observation are discussed. 5. Calliope hummingbirds lack arete mirabile ophthalmicum, the countercurrent arterial-venous heat exchanger responsible for brain cooling in other birds. 6. Brain cooling in calliope hummingbirds apparently depends on heat exchange between arterial blood flowing to the brain, and cool venous blood returning from evaporative and convective surfaces at sites other than therete mirabile ophthalmicum.
Pseudopotential calculations for Na2+, Na and Na2−☆

Abstract Potential curves have been computed for five states of Na 2 + , five states of Na 2 and two states of Na 2 − using a pseudopotential approach. The results are consistent with the accepted attribution to a 3 Π state of the perturbations observed in transitions involving the A 1 Σ u state of Na 2 , and the stability of the Na 2 − ion is established.
Synthesis and Properties of a New Polyether Ketone

A new polyether ketone has been synthesized (via addition polymerization) by reacting N,N′-bispropargyl-4,4′-diaminobenzophenone and Bisphenol A. The polymer is soluble in both polar and ketonic solvents. The inherent viscosity data indicates the molecular weight of the polymer to be low and thermogravimetric analysis suggests it to be a fairly thermostable polymer.
Ureteroscopic retrieval of proximallylocated ureteral stents

Indwelling self-retaining ureteral stents are important for the maintenance of urinary drainage in the ureter threatened by obstruction by neoplasm, edema, or calculus. Proximal migration of the stent into the ureter prevents simple cystoscopic retrieval and necessitates removal by other techniques. In this series both rigid and flexible ureteroscopes were used to remove stents from locations ranging from the renal pelvis to the distal ureter in 16 patients. Three-pronged wire graspers was the retrieval instrument most frequently used. Stents were removed in all patients without complication. Ureteroscopy provides the most convenient and least invasive technique for removing stents proximally located in the upper urinary system.
DEFINING QUALITY: ALTERNATIVES AND IMPLICATIONS

The search for a universal definition of quality has yielded inconsistent results. Such a global definition does not exist; rather, different definitions of quality are appropriate under different circumstances. In this article, we trace the evolution of quality definitions and describe the trade-offs inherent in accepting one definition of quality over another. The implications of using various definitions of quality in future research also are discussed.
Schottky barrier formation on InP(110) passivated with one monolayer of Sb

Abstract To passivate InP(110) surfaces chemically and electrically, we have investigated a new method using one monolayer of Sb as an interlayer at metal-semiconductor interfaces. Prior work has established that one monolayer of Sb ideally terminates InP(110) by providing a surface which satisfies all chemical bonds and is lattice matched. The deposition of one monolayer of Sb followed by annealing near 300°C gives nearly the flat band condition for both n- and p-type InP, with a residual band bending of less than 0.2 eV. To make Schottky barriers on these surfaces, we have deposited five metals (Au, Pd, Ag, Cu, and Al). We have found that (1) Au and Ag are non-reactive and form big clusters, and (2) Pd, Cu, and Al are reactive on these surfaces. Although Schottky barrier heights on n-InP without an Sb interlayer range from 0.3 to 0.55 eV, those with an Sb interlayer range from 0.49 to 0.82 eV. By using this method, we have first succeeded in obtaining a technologically important large Schottky barrier height of about 0.82 eV at Au/n-InP(110) interfaces.
Novel formation of a bridged bicyclic furan by rearrangement of a tetrahydroxydecalinone

Abstract In the course of a synthetic approach to the arisugacins, we prepared the tetrahydroxydecalinone 8a (which exists as the hydroxytetrahydrofuran 8b ) by a straightforward route from hydroxy-β-ionone. On treatment with mesyl chloride and base, the desired mesylate 9 was not formed but rather 8ab underwent a novel rearrangement to produce the bridged bicyclic furan 10 in excellent yield. A reasonable mechanism for the rearrangement is presented involving a retro-aldol reaction, a base-catalyzed β-elimination, and final furan formation from a β-hydroxymethyl enone.
Preventing a Vocabulary Lag: What Lessons Are Learned From Research

This article discusses why early and sustained vocabulary development is important for listening and reading comprehension development and presents findings from 8 studies implemented with children of mostly low socioeconomic status in settings from day care to first grade. Program interventions were based on learning new vocabulary developed out of storybook read-alouds and not with word-reading approaches. Practitioners and researchers may find it quite useful to implement the vocabulary-learning procedures with low-vocabulary children or English language learners in their own settings. We offer a number of suggestions and implications for future research based on conversational interactions and the findings of the 8 investigations.
Management of catheter-induced venous thrombosis

Catheter-induced venous thrombosis remains a significant problem in current clinical practice. A high level of biocompatibility of the materials used to manufacture the existing venous access devices has not eliminated catheter-induced venous thrombosis. Similarly, catheter bonding with anticoagulants or their systemic use, while in some instances having a favorable effect on the incidence, has not eliminated this problem. The focus of this article is on discussion of the various factors that influence formation of catheter-induced venous thrombosis. Also discussed is the management of this clinical problem, and a useful algorithm is outlined.
Formation of the first monolayer of CdSe on Au(111) by electrochemical ALE

Abstract Electrochemical ALE (ECALE), the electrochemical analog of atomic layer epitaxy (ALE), is being developed. Central to ALE is the formation of atomic layers of the elements using surface limited reactions, in a cycle. In electrochemistry another name for a surface limited electrodeposition reaction is underpotential deposition (UPD). In ECALE, compound thin films are formed an atomic layer at a time by using UPD, in a cycle. In the study presented here the formation of the first monolayer of CdSe on Au(111) is described. The first step in the ECALE cycle is the formation of an atomic layer of Se via UPD. UPD of Se resulted in a surface composed of domains of domains of two structures: a (√3 × √3)R30° structure at 1 3 coverage, and a close packed layer of square eight membered Se rings. The ring structure consists of three domains, each rotated by 120°. Formation of a single structure, homogeneously covering the whole surface proved difficult due to the kinetics of the UPD process. Subsequent deposition of a Cd atomic layer resulted in formation of a CdSe structure with a (3 × 3) unit cell, and 4 9 coverage of both Cd and Se. A structure proposed to account for the unit cell and coverages, consists of a slice out of the bulk wurtzite structure for CdSe laid onto the Au(111) substrate, where twice the surface lattice constant for CdSe matches up with three times the Au interatomic spacing.
Tensile deformation of 2618 and AlFeSiV aluminum alloys at elevated temperatures

The present study experimentally characterizes the effects of elevated temperature on the uniaxial tensile behavior of ingot metallurgy 2618 Al alloy and the rapidly solidified FVS 0812 P/M alloy by means of two constitutive formulations: the Ramberg/Osgood equation and the Bodner-Partom (1975) incremental formulation for uniaxial tensile loading. The elastoplastic strain-hardening behavior of the ingot metallurgy alloy is equally well represented by either formulation. Both alloys deform similarly under decreasing load after only 1-5 percent uniform tensile strain, a response which is not described by either constitutive relation.
Stimulation of oviposition and successful rearing ofTelenomus heliothidis [Hym.: Scelionidae] on nonhosts by use of a host-recognition kairomone

Through use of a recognition kairomone, the parasitoidTelenomus heliothidisAshmead is induced to oviposit and successfully develops in nonhost eggs.T. heliothidis successfully develops in the eggs ofSpodoptera frugiperda (Smith) andPhthorimaea operculellaZeller, but fails to develop in eggs ofAnthonomus grandisBoheman. Both sexes of the parasitoid are produced from the nonhosts, and development time is the same as in a natural host such asHeliothis virescens F. The use of recognition kairomones could be of great use in artificial rearing of nongeneralist parasitoids suchT. heliothidis.
A rebuttal to "A comment to 'Normalization of urinary pteridines by urine specific gravity for early cancer detection' [Clin. Chim. Acta 435 (2014) 42-47]".

Abstract We really appreciate the comments from Drs. Reibnegger and Fuchs regarding our recent publication “Normalization of urinary pteridines by urine specific gravity for early cancer detection [Clin. Chim. Acta 435 (2014) 42–47]”. In their letter, Drs. Reibnegger and Fuchs identify several potential concerns regarding our recent publication [1] that evaluated the normalization performance of urine specific gravity (USG) and urinary creatinine with respect to the diagnostic properties of selected pteridines in discerning aggressive and benign breast cancers. Their letter not only provides unique insights that are both relevant and helpful to many researchers engaging in similar studies, but also provides a wonderful opportunity for us to address these potential concerns that may also be shared by other readers. We addressed all of the comments by Drs. Reibnegger and Fuchs in this letter.
The management of hypercalcemia of malignancy

Hypercalcemia (HCM) occurs in 10–15% of all malignancies, predominantly in patients with solid tumors. This metabolic complication leads to significant morbidity and impairment of quality of life. Recent insights into the pathophysiology of HCM include an understanding of the role of parathyroid-hormone-related peptide and several cytokines secreted by tumors. The osteoclast plays a central role as the final common pathway through which these hormones and cytokines act to cause bone lysis. These findings have led to the development of new treatment strategies. Foremost among these has been the introduction of agents such as the newer bisphosphonates and gallium nitrate, which are potent inhibitors of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. The clinician can now choose from an array of therapeutic approaches based on a consideration of the mechanisms of action, individual clinical circumstances, efficacy, toxicities and costs of available agents. In addition to their use in the management of HCM, non-toxic drugs that effectively inhibit osteoclast function, such as the bisphosphonates, are playing an emerging role in the palliative treatment of the more common clinical problems of painful lytic bone metastases and osteoporosis.
An intermodulated fluorescence study of the A2Σ−-X2Πi band system of copper monoxide

Abstract Several lines in the A 2 Σ − ( v = 0)- X 2 Π i ( v = 0) visible band system of gas phase copper monoxide have been measured at sub-Doppler resolution using the technique of intermodulated fluorescence. The copper nuclear magnetic hyperfine splitting is clearly resolved. The observations were fitted to an effective Hamiltonian model and values of the magnetic hyperfine parameters of b F = −0.0302 cm −1 for the A state and d = 0.0024 cm −1 for the X state were determined. An interpretation of these values in terms of the proposed electronic configurations of these states is presented.
Accumulation of immunoglobulin G at focal sites of inflammation.

To evaluate the factors responsible for the accumulation indium-111 immunoglobulin Gr (111InIgG) at sites of inflammation, sequential measurements of tissue blood volume, interstitial fluid volume and accumulation of radiolabelled albumin and IgG were made in rats following Escherichia coli infection in the thigh. Compared with normal thigh muscle, there was ∼two-fold increase in interstitial fluid volume and ∼ 1.5-fold increase in plasma and red blood cell volumes in infected muscle. For both proteins, there was a fivefold increase in influx rate constant (kin) in infected muscle. In normal muscle, the interstitial fluid concentration of labelled human serum albumin (111In-HSA) was significantly higher than that of 111In-IgG (P<0.01). In contrast, the concentrations in infected muscle were nearly identical. The concentration ratios (infected to normal muscle) were 1.7:1 for HSA and 3:1 for IgG. These data suggest that the infection imaging properties of 111In-IgG are related to expansion of the space available to macromolecules in infected tissue and increased transport into this space. At clinically important imaging times (24–48 h after injection), the higher target-to-background ratio of 111In-IgG compared with 111In-HSA is not due to the higher accumulation IgG in infected tissue but rather to the higher accumulation of HSA in normal tissue.
Alignment and geometrical effects on Stueckelberg interference structure in cross sections for inelastic collisions involving Rydberg atoms.

A theoretical study of Stueckelberg interference structure in inelastic, state-changing integrated cross sections for collisions of low-Rydberg Na ([ital n][lt]10) atoms with ground state He atoms is reported. The dependence of the Stueckelberg interference structure on orbital geometry and alignment of the initial state is predicted. Interference oscillations are found in the cross sections for both initial [ital ns] and [ital np] states; in the latter case, the features show considerable sensitivity with respect to variations in the spatial alignment of the principal axis of the electron charge distribution at some collision velocities and near isotropy at others.
High-Power High-Reliability High-Q Switched RF MEMS Capacitors

This paper presents an RF MEMS switched-capacitor suitable for tunable filters and reconfigurable matching networks. The switched-capacitor results in a capacitance ratio of 1.5?2 depending on the design, and a very high-Q (> 225) at X to Ku-band frequencies. The switched-capacitor has been tested at 1 W of RF power at 8 GHz for > 11 billion cycles under hot-switched conditions and a uni-polar actuation voltage of 0?50 V, with virtually no change in the C-V curve. The measured switching and release time is 8 ?s. The main reason for this reliability performance is the absense of all dielectric layers in the RF MEMS capacitor.
A boundary Nevanlinna-Pick problem for a class of analytic matrix-valued functions in the unit ball

Abstract We solve a tangential boundary interpolation problem with a finite number of interpolating points for a multivariable analogue of the Schur class. The description of all solutions is parametrized in terms of a linear fractional transformation whose entries are given explicitly in terms of the interpolation data.
The mechanism of synthesis of fatty acids by the pigeon liver enzyme system

Abstract The evidence in support of the postulation of three major sites of binding of acetyl and two of malonyl groups to the pigeon liver fatty acid synthetase is critically reviewed. Analyses of the chemical properties of these sites, when free and when esterified with acetyl or malonyl groups, and analyses for the amino acids present in the peptides containing these sites, has led to their identification as the SH groups of 4′-phosphopantetheine and cysteine and the hydroxyl group of a hydroxyamino acid. The enzymatic synthesis of other enzyme-bound intermediates of fatty acid synthesis has also been effected, and the sites of binding of each intermediate to the protein has been determined. From data on the sites of binding of intermediates to the fatty acid synthetase and the order of transfer from one site to another a mechanism of fatty acid synthesis is postulated.
The Utah State University Gauss-Markov Kalman Filter of the Ionosphere: The Effect of Slant TEC and Electron Density Profile Data on Model Fidelity

Abstract The Utah State University (USU) Gauss–Markov Kalman filter (GMKF) of the ionosphere uses the Ionosphere Forecast Model (IFM) to provide the background ionosphere, and a Kalman filter using Gauss–Markov relaxation to specify deviations from this background. The USU GMKF can assimilate up to four different types of data: total electron content (TEC) determined from various ground stations and global positioning system (GPS) satellite combinations; in situ electron densities; electron density profiles (EDPs) from ground-based radars; and certain optical emissions. In this work, results from the GMKF for several cases with varying combinations of slant TEC and EDP data during a 30-day study period (days 080–110, 2004) are presented. Assimilation of slant TEC from as many as 335 globally distributed GPS ground stations is shown to significantly improve the comparison to independent measures of vertical TEC over the oceans and N m F 2 at the Bear Lake Observatory (BLO). Assimilation of only ionosonde data is seen to improve the global TEC comparison over the no-data case, but introduces a bias in model N m F 2 results owing to the specifics of the EDP handling in this version of the GMKF. Assimilation of both slant TEC data and EDPs from 19 ionosondes is shown to produce the best comparison to the BLO N m F 2 measurements while maintaining the fidelity of the global TEC comparison. Increasing the number of GPS stations without improving the grid resolution does not improve the TEC result, and may degrade the N m F 2 comparison unless correlations between separate measurements are properly handled.
Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of infections during pregnancy: implementation of recommended interventions, United States, 2003–2004

Objective The objective of the study was to describe prenatal screening, positive test rates, and the administration of indicated interventions for hepatitis B, rubella, syphilis, group B streptococcus (GBS), chlamydia, and gonorrhea in the United States using 2 population-based surveys. Study Design Both surveys abstracted demographic, prenatal, and delivery data from a representative sample of delivering women in 10 states. Analyses accounted for the complex sampling design. Results Among the 7691 and 19,791 women in the 2 studies, screened proportions before delivery were more than 90% for hepatitis B and rubella, 80% for syphilis, 72-85% for GBS, and less than 80% for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Inadequate prenatal care was the strongest factor associated with no screening. Administration of interventions indicated by positive test results was variable but generally low. Conclusion Improved prenatal screening and administration of indicated treatments or interventions, particularly for syphilis, GBS, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, will further protect newborns from infection.
Chromosome 7 aneusomy in metaplastic breast carcinomas with chondroid, squamous, and spindle-cell differentiation

Metaplastic breast carcinomas (MBCs) are basal-like tumors that frequently express epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) via an unknown underlying genetic mechanism. In this study, the EGFR/CEP7 gene copy number in 17 MBCs with chondroid, squamous, and spindle-cell differentiation showing EGFR expression by immunohistochemistry was analyzed using fluorescence in situ hybridization. All cases had a balanced EGFR/CEP7 ratio. EGFR gene amplification was not observed in any case. Monosomy was found in 25% and polysomy in 12.5% of carcinomas with chondroid differentiation. All spindle-cell carcinomas and 50% of squamous carcinomas showed trisomy. Comparison with CEP7 copy number revealed aneusomy of chromosome 7, as opposed to increases or decreases specific to the EGFR gene or 7p. Although no direct correlation between EGFR expression by immunohistochemistry and aneusomy was observed, cases with a score of 3+ showed a higher frequency of EGFR gene copy gain. In the absence of EGFR amplification, chromosome 7 aneusomy might be a useful criterion for the determination of potential candidates for EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor clinical trials.
Layered Uranium(VI) Hydroxides: Structural and Thermodynamic Properties of Dehydrated Schoepite α-UO2(OH)2.

The structure of dehydrated schoepite, α-UO2(OH)2, was investigated using computational approaches that go beyond standard density functional theory and include van der Waals dispersion corrections (DFT-D). Thermal properties of α-UO2(OH)2, were also obtained from phonon frequencies calculated with density functional perturbation theory (DFPT) including van der Waals dispersion corrections. While the isobaric heat capacity computed from first-principles reproduces available calorimetric data to within 5% up to 500 K, some entropy estimates based on calorimetric measurements for UO3·0.85H2O were found to overestimate by up to 23% the values computed in this study.
Influence of high energy radiation on the oxidation of oleic acid and methyl oleate. II. Sites of oxygen attack

1. The hydroperoxides formed by the γ-irradiated autoxidations of methyl oleate at 7.5°C. and 56°C. have been characterized. The mono- and dicarboxylic acids produced by γ-irradiated autoxidation at 56°C. and by cobalt-catalyzed γ-irradiated autoxidation at 73°C. have also been examined. 2. The hydroperoxides were found to be a mixture of the 8-, 9-, 10-, and 11-hydroperoxidooleates in both samples. They were present in the order 10>11> 9>8. 3. Evidence is presented for the presence of octanoic, nonanoic, octandioic, and nonandioic acids in the 56°C. autoxidation. Octanoic and nonanoic acids were also present in the cobalt-catalyzed autoxidation. 4. No significant departure from non-irradiated autoxidations was found.
Editor’s Introduction: Semiotics and Sociology

This article provides a brief summary of the individual papers in the issue, indicating their logical and thematic connections as well as their relationship to Charles S. Peirce’s semiotics and Norbert Wiley’s model of ‘the semiotic self.’ The significance of the articles for the future development of sociology is also considered.
Age cohort differences in the nonmedical use of prescription zolpidem: findings from a nationally representative sample.

Abstract Background Recent warnings from the FDA have highlighted the potential risks associated with zolpidem use. These risks may be especially acute in nonmedical users of zolpidem, but little work has examined the characteristics of such nonmedical users. This study aims to investigate the correlates of nonmedical use of zolpidem (NUPZ) across the lifespan and potential age cohort-based differences in NUPZ correlates. Methods Data from the 2009–2011 versions of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health were used (n = 174,667). Analyses used weighted design-based logistic regressions to examine a set of substance use and mental health correlates within five separate age cohorts and differences in correlate magnitude between these cohorts. Results Most examined substance use and mental health variables were significant correlates of NUPZ, though odds ratio (OR) magnitude tended to drop with increasing age. Age-based differences were most apparent for substance use correlates of both lifetime and past year NUPZ, with significantly higher ORs in adolescent nonmedical users. Mental health variables operated more consistently across age, with OR magnitudes that were generally in the same range, regardless of age cohort. Conclusions Age-based differences in NUPZ correlates suggest motives may change for NUPZ through the lifespan, though this cannot be established with the cross-sectional data used in this work. Clinicians screening for NUPZ should emphasize such screening in high-risk individuals with substance use and/or mental health problems.
Some criteria for reliability growth

Abstract The sequence of failures of a system is assumed to be modelled by a stochastic point process. Criteria for the reliability growth of such a system are introduced. The relationships between the criteria are deduced and preservation of the criteria under the formation of series systems is discussed.
Coplanar patch antenna fed at the non-radiating edge

In this paper, the feeding characteristics of a coplanar patch antenna (CPA) fed at the nonradiating edge (NRE) are discussed. Specifically, the variation of input impedance with the feed location along the NRE has been studied. From these studies, the optimal feed location at the NRE has been obtained for matching the CPA to a 50 /spl Omega/ coplanar waveguide (CPW) feed line. The return loss of the fabricated antenna was measured to be 32 dB at the resonant frequency of 3.575 GHz. Design, simulation and measurements of this antenna are discussed here.
Automated seed localization from CT datasets of the prostate

With the increasing utilization of permanent brachytherapy implants for treating carcinoma of the prostate, the importance of accurate post-treatment dose calculation also increases for assessing patient outcome and planning future treatments. An automatic method for seed localization of permanent brachytherapy implants, using CT datasets of the prostate, has been developed and tested on a phantom using an actual patient planned seed distribution. This method was also compared to results with the three-film technique for three patient datasets. The automatic method is as accurate or more accurate than the three film technique for 1 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm contiguous CT slices, and eliminates the inter- and intra-observer variability of the manual methods. The automated method improves the localization of brachytherapy seeds while reducing the time required for the user to input information, and is demonstrated to be less operator dependent, less time consuming, and potentially more accurate than the three-film technique.
There cannot be two omnipotent beings

We argue that there is no metaphysically possible world with two or more omnipotent beings, due to the potential for conflicts of will between them. We reject the objection that omnipotent beings could exist in the same world when their wills could not conflict. We then turn to Alfred Mele and M.P. Smith’s argument that two coexisting beings could remain omnipotent even if, on some occasions, their wills cancel each other out so that neither can bring about what they intend. We argue that this argument has an absurd consequence, namely having to regard an utterly powerless being as omnipotent.