cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Higgs-boson–photon production at [Formula presented] colliders

We present cross sections for the reaction {mu}{bar {mu}}{r_arrow}H{gamma} over a range of {mu}{bar {mu}} collider energies. The amplitudes for this process receive tree level contributions and one-loop contributions, which are of comparable magnitude. The tree level amplitudes are dominated by helicity non-flip terms and the one-loop amplitudes are dominated by helicity flip terms. As a consequence, the interference terms between the tree level and one-loop contributions are negligible. For a 500 GeV {mu}{bar {mu}} collider, the cross section for H{gamma} associated production approaches 0.1 fb. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
Continual Expression of Rab5(Q79L) Causes a Ligand-Independent EGFR Internalization and Diminishes EGFR Activity

The amount of cell-surface Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) available to secreted ligand (EGF) dictates a cell's ability to mediate cell proliferation, differentiation or migration. Multiple factors regulate EGFR cell-surface expression including the rates of protein synthesis and protein degradation, and the endocytic trafficking of both stimulated and unstimulated EGFR. Rab5 is a 25 kDa protein that is localized to the plasma membrane and the early endosome. Its exact molecular function, however, remains controversial. We have used stable and transient expression systems in HeLa cells to examine the consequence of continual, overexpression of wild-type and activated mutants of rab5 on EGFR localization and signaling. Continual expression of constitutively activated mutants of rab5 causes a ligand-independent redistribution of EGFRs into intracellular vesicles that can not be blocked with an antagonistic antibody. The net result is a decrease in the level of cell-surface EGFRs available for ligand stimulation. Thus, rab5 activation regulates EGFR signaling by facilitating the internalization of the unliganded EGFR.
Combining prediction, syntactic analysis and semantic analysis in Chinese sentence analysis

This paper describes a system for the analysis of Chinese language that incorporates several heuristic techniques for reducing ambiguities. Heuristic knowledge about "characteristic" words is used to predict a partial syntactic structure of sentence before doing global analysis. More than one prediction may exist, the system chooses the best combination of compatible partial predictions. Backtracking is evoked if acontradiction is later detected, producing a different choice of predictions. Semantic constraints are used for translating phrase structure into case structure Rules are written to independent modules for word classes. An object-oriented scheme organizes the rules into layers, according to their priorities of application. A preference score is calculated at each step of processing, giving a synthetic evaluation of both syntactic plausibility and semantic plausibility. The scores of partial results steer a priority-driven parser towards the most plausible sentence structure, instead of generating all the possible results and afterwards making the choice. An experimental system based on these techniques has been built and tested on over one hundred sentences selected from published material. The results were very successful. The number of trees required to be produced in order to obtain a correct analysis was typically reduced from several hundred to under ten.
A Glial Spin on Neurotrophins

Glial cells in the nervous system are responsible for ensheathing the axons of neurons in myelin. However, the positive and negative signals regulating myelination remain obscure. In a Perspective, [Hempstead and Salzer][1] discuss new work ([Cosgaya][2] et al .) that identifies the neurotrophin BDNF and its receptor p75 as positive modulators of myelination by Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/298/5596/1184 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/298/5596/1245
Dry mass changes in germinating spores of Diplodia maydis

The dry mass of two-celled Diplodia maydis spores was measured both before and after germination by quantitative interference microscopy. The dry mass of spores declined approximately 50% during germination. However, the dry mass of germinating spores plus the dry mass of their germ tubes was greater than the dry mass of spores before germination. We conclude that the germinating spores absorbed nutrients released from non-germinating spores.
A brief introduction to coronal 'loops'

A discussion is presented of elementary aspects of the physics of coronal loops, in order to more securely approach the question of their existence. It is noted that the time-scales for pressure equilibration are far shorter than typical cooling times in loop structures, and that the loop structures are accordingly in pressure balance with their surroundings. Those surroundings, however, are dark, implying a decreased density and gas pressure outside the bright loops. It is deduced that the loop interiors must have a weaker magnetic field than the gas immediately outside them.
ACTION SPECTRA FOR MODIFICATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI B/r MENAQUINONE BY NEAR‐ULTRAVIOLET AND VISIBLE RADIATIONS (313–578 nm)*

–Menaquinone-8 (MQ-8) was irradiated in vivo in Escherichia coli B/r and in vitro after extraction from E. coli B/r, using monochromatic radiation in the range 313–578 nm. Within experimental error, the action spectra for loss of chromatographic mobility after irradiation in vivo and in vitro agree with each other and with the absorption spectrum of pure MQ-8. The MQ-8 is extremely sensitive to near-UV light (300–380 nm), showing an F37in vivo at 334 nm of 1.3 kj/m2, a value 15 times lower than that required for growth delay, and 150 times lower than that for killing, of E. coli B/r. The quantum yield for this reaction in vivo at 334 nm has the very high value of 0.26. The high sensitivity of MQ-8 suggests involvement in near-UV-induced effects on the plasma membrane.
Small animal lung imaging with an in-line X-ray phase contrast benchtop system

We present the results from a benchtop X-ray phase-contrast (XPC) method for lung imaging that represents a paradigm shift in the way small animal lung imaging is performed. In our method, information regarding airway microstructure that is encoded within speckle texture of a single XPC radiograph is decoded to spatially resolve changes in lung properties such as microstructure sizes, air volumes, and compliance, to name a few. Such functional information cannot be derived from conventional lung radiography or any other 2D imaging modality. By computing these images at different time points within a breathing cycle, dynamic functional imaging can be potentially achieved without the need for tomography.
Rapid typing of tandemly repeated hypervariable loci by the polymerase chain reaction: application to the apolipoprotein B 3' hypervariable region.

Abstract The 3' flanking region of the apolipoprotein B (apoB) gene contains a hypervariable region consisting of a variable number of tandemly repeated short A + T-rich DNA sequences (VNTRs). We present a general method that utilizes the polymerase chain reaction to rapidly and accurately type this and other VNTR loci. We use tailored oligonucleotides and thermostable Taq polymerase to amplify the targeted region. The amplification products are directly visualized after agarose gel electrophoresis. Twelve alleles were readily identified in a sample of 125 unrelated individuals. The alleles differ with respect to the length of the amplified gene region. This genetic variability is inherited in an autosomal codominant manner. DNA sequence data indicate that individual alleles differ in the number of repeat units and the sensitivity of the technique is such that alleles differing in length by only 32 base pairs are readily distinguishable. A system of nomenclature based on the number of repeat units is suggested; an allele containing 37 repeat units is designated 3' beta 37, one containing 35 units is 3' beta 35, and so on. The frequency distribution of the 12 apoB VNTR alleles is bimodal with peaks at 37 and 47 repeat units and a nadir near 43 repeat units. We estimate that the 3' apoB VNTR locus has a heterozygosity index of 0.75 and a polymorphic information content of 0.73. It is a highly informative marker for genetic linkage studies on chromosome 2 and clinical and epidemiological studies involving the apoB gene. The high sensitivity and inexpensive nature of this technique make it superior to traditional Southern blot analysis for typing the 3' apoB VNTR. The method described is also directly applicable for rapid typing of other VNTRs in the human genome.
Development and validation of the endorsement of the hookup culture index.

Although researchers have examined the predictors and outcomes of the behavioral aspect of “hooking up,” typically defined as casual, commitment-free sexual encounters, research has not yet examined the extent to which young people endorse the culture associated with hooking up. Based on the argument that there is a set of understood rules and assumptions associated with hooking up, this article describes the development of an instrument to measure college students' endorsement of the hookup culture. Results from two studies found that five factors represent endorsement of the hookup culture: (a) a belief that hooking up is harmless and best without emotional commitment, (b) a belief that hooking up is fun, (c) a belief that hooking up will enhance one's status in one's peer group, (d) a belief that hooking up allows one to assert control over one's sexuality, and (e) a belief that hooking up is a reflection of one's sexual freedom. The index also had acceptable internal reliability, and performed well on...
Precision medicine: an approach to R&D for delivering superior medicines to patients

Pharmaceutical R&D productivity has declined over the last decade despite increasing investments. Recent trends, however, indicate a potential reversal of this trend fueled by a wave of new biologics, vaccines and highly selective NCEs directed against targets validated by human genetics, focus on new disease areas including orphan and genetic diseases and more precise tailoring of medicines to their target populations.
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for isolated adrenal metastasis from cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endometrial adenocarcinoma

Metastatic spread of gynecologic neoplasms to the adrenal gland is a rare condition. There is no consensus on the role of adrenalectomy for metastatic gynecologic neoplasms, given its extremely low incidence. We present two patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy for an isolated adrenal metastasis, one originating from squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, and the other from endometrial adenocarcinoma.
Tonsillitis, Peritonsillar and Lateral Pharyngeal Abscesses

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are occasionally called on to diagnose, treat, and rule out peritonsillar abscesses. In this article, the anatomy of the peritonsillar area, its contents, surgical approaches, and possible complications are discussed.
Lung hernia following robotic-assisted mitral valve repair.

Lung hernia is an uncommon diagnosis characterized by lung tissue protruding through a chest wall defect. It may occur spontaneously, as a congenital defect, as a result of trauma, or as a postsurgical complication. We describe the occurrence of lung hernia and subsequent successful herniorraphy in two patients following robotic-assisted mitral valve repair. (J Card Surg 2012;27:460-463)
Rate-limited mass transfer of octane, decane, and dodecane into nonionic surfactants solutions under laminar flow conditions

Abstract A key component to predicting the success of utilizing surfactants to enhance the removal of organic liquids from soil system is quantifying micellar solubilization kinetics. In this study, a flow reactor was employed to investigate the influence of surfactant ethoxylate chain length on the rates of solubilization of octane, decane, and dodecane in micellar solutions of a homologous series of purified dodecyl alcohol ethoxylates. Effluent concentration data were fit using a finite element model utilizing a linear-driving-force model to represent mass transfer at the interface. For flow rates between 0.1 and 2 ml min−1, mass transfer coefficients ranged from 5 × 10−8 to 7 × 10−7 m s−1 and did not vary in a systematic way with either solute structure or surfactant ethoxylate chain length and were lower than those found in pure water. Correlations developed for the Sherwood number based on diffusion coefficients of surfactant micelles containing organic material (organic-laden micelle) exhibit a velocity dependence similar to that found for systems based on aqueous diffusion. These results suggest that under gentle flowing conditions, the mass transfer is limited by diffusion of the organic-laden micelle. Although these trends are specific for this experimental system, the results demonstrate the importance of selecting the proper diffusion coefficient when modeling surfactant solubilization processes.
Export of Labrador Sea Water from the subpolar North Atlantic: A Lagrangian perspective

Abstract Results from 59 acoustically tracked RAFOS floats obtained during 2003–2008 are analyzed here to study the spreading pathways of Labrador Sea Water (LSW) from the subpolar to subtropical North Atlantic. An earlier paper based on a subset of these float data presented evidence of a potentially important interior pathway for the southward spreading of LSW. Here those results are reinforced with the full data set and new information on LSW pathways around the Grand Banks is presented. About 70% of the RAFOS floats were expelled into the ocean interior east of the Grand Banks and meandered slowly eastward toward the mid-Atlantic ridge, a pathway observed previously with profiling floats. Less than 10% was advected continuously around the Grand Banks by the Deep Western Boundary Current (DWBC). A larger fraction (∼17%) drifted into the subtropical interior from the Tail of the Grand Banks, suggesting that this pathway is at least if not more important than the DWBC pathway for the export of LSW to the subtropics. RAFOS floats released closest to the continental slope at 700 m depth were more likely to rapidly reach subtropical latitudes, mainly because they drifted through Flemish Pass, a 1100 m deep channel between the Grand Banks and the Flemish Cap, which protects fluid parcels from being swept off the continental slope by meanders of the North Atlantic Current. A statistical comparison of the RAFOS trajectories with more than 5000 simulated floats obtained from the Family of Linked Atlantic Models Experiment (FLAME) high-resolution ocean general circulation model reveals a similar pattern of LSW spreading. The RAFOS and simulated floats are also used to show that contrary to a previous modeling study, the isobaric RAFOS floats do not underestimate the amount of LSW that continuously follows the DWBC around the Grand Banks compared to isopycnal floats. These results have implications for the connectivity of the deep limb of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation between the subpolar and the subtropical North Atlantic.
Long Term Vision Creates Perspective

Column Editor's Note. Leaders need to develop long term perspectives if they are to be successful in leading their organizations into the future. A vision is a good start but the leader needs to be able to anticipate developments, opportunities, changes, and finances if they are to guide their organization through a changing landscape. Successful leaders are able to develop insights into the future and position their organization to positively interact with their environment. While some of these skills are intuitive, leaders are able to develop a long term perspective through several strategies. Interested authors are invited to submit articles for this column to the editor at farrell@uwyo.edu.
Integrated Circuit Radar And Radiometric Sensors

AbstractThe use of integrated circuit techniques for millimeter wave transducers has now moved from a researchcuriosity to an engineering discipline. Microstrip is the preferred transmission media to demonstrate a widevariety of RF component functions. For applications involving precision weapon systems, a soft substrate ispreferred since it provides lower cost, improved survivability, and functional versatility when compared withthe traditional hard candidates such as quartz. The MESFET is rapidly emerging as a key building block formonolithic supercomponents up to a frequency of approximately 40 GHz. Both planar and conformal antennas arebeing developed again based on a soft substrate with photolithographic processing. The marriage of planarintegrated circuit transceivers with thin, planar antennas is providing a new generation of low cost, produc-ible and miniature millimeter wave transducers for demanding systems requirements.IntroductionMillimeter waves generally have three unique characteristics that make them useful for precision weapon
Genetic variation in space and time in a population of ponderosa pine

The genetic structure of a population of Pinus ponderosa was studied using seven electrophoretically-detectable protein loci. This population is composed of six groups of trees, which differ significantly from each other in their genetic constitutions. The results imply that the population is composed of groups of individuals assembled into genetically-related family units. Whenever such family clusters have been documented in other studies, marked inbreeding has also been noted as a consequence. In this population, no inbreeding is detectable. The groups also differ from one another in several characteristics which have genetic consequences within the population as a whole. These characteristics include age structures, seed output, level of infestation by woolly aphids and extent of damage by deer browsing. The population was also divided into four age classes which do not differ markedly from one another in their genetic characteristics. This suggests that genetic differentiation in time is much less marked than differentiation in space.
General Time Elements for the Two Body Problem

When integrating a perturbed two-body problem, very often the propagation of the numerical error is reduced by using a new time variables defined by dt/ds=|q|n, (|q| is the radial distance,t the time). This paper introduces a time element for such transformations, i.e., a new variabletn is defined so that dtn/ds=1+ (perturbing terms) andt=Fn(tn), whereFn is a known function. The time element equation should be useful in reducing the error in the determination of the timet.Fn is given explicitly forn=1, 3/2, 2, 5/2 and 3, and a general expression is given for other values.
Effects of 4-tertiary butylphenol on the tyrosinase activity in human melanocytes.

Vitiligo is a common dermatological disorder characterized by the development of complete pigment loss from focal lesions that tends to increase in size over time. The etiology of vitiligo, resulting in the disappearance of functional melanocytes from involved skin, is not clearly understood. As a consequence, no satisfactory therapy has been developed. A subtype of vitiligo, termed 'occupational' or 'contact' vitiligo, is increased in individuals who are exposed to materials containing phenolic derivatives, such as 4-tertiary butylphenol (4-TBP). Phenolic derivatives are structurally similar to tyrosine, the initial substrate of tyrosinase in the biochemical synthesis of melanin. Therefore, it has been proposed that phenolic derivatives compete with tyrosine for hydroxylation by tyrosinase and interfere with the completion of melanin synthesis and/or generate cytotoxic intermediates. Our results demonstrated that 4-TBP competitively inhibited both tyrosine hydroxylase and dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) oxidase activities of tyrosinase, i.e., the first two catalytic steps in the biochemical conversion of tyrosine to melanin in cultured human melanocytes. This inhibition occurred at concentrations that did not influence the viability of melanocytes. The tyrosinase activity inhibited by 4-TBP was recovered after removing the treatment. 4-TBP did not affect the function of other enzymes, such as succinate-tetrazolium reductase, acid phosphatase and sulfatase. Since depigmentation occurred without a cytotoxic response after exposure of melanocytes to low concentration of 4-TBP, it is unclear whether the interaction between 4-TBP and tyrosinase leads to the destruction of the melanocytes in 'contact/occupational' vitiligo.
Aerodynamic Model Reduction Through Balanced Realization

ERODYNAMIC model reduction based on internal balancing is examined for incompressible potential flow and is shown to allow signification reduction in model complexity. The technique wa sv alidated against classical two-dimensional incompressible unsteady results, as well as an aeroelastic flutter boundary calculation. In particular, new insight is given into the relationship between balanced aerodynamic states and the fundamental physics of airfoil and wing motion. The form of the principal retained states suggests that the physics of a few dominant limiting-case airfoil motions characterize the flow. Comparison with exact solutions for a twodimensional case are shown to illustrate this point. A popular technique for aerodynamic model reduction is to per
Small-Angle Neutron Scattering Analysis of the Structure and Interaction of Triblock Copolymer Micelles in Aqueous Solution

We report analysis of an extensive set of small angle neutron scattering intensity distributions from triblock copolymer micelles in aqueous solutions. We investigated two Pluronics, P84 (PEO19 PPO43 PEO19) and P104 (PEO27 PPO61 PEO27), in an entire range of disordered spherical micellar phases both in temperature and in concentration. At room temperature, both poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) are hydrophilic but at elevated temperature, PPO becomes significantly less hydrophilic, thus creating a thermodynamic driving force for micellization. It has been known that the resultant spherical micelle consists of a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic corona region. In this paper, we propose a “cap-and-gown” model for the microstructure of the micelle, taking into consideration the polymer segmental distribution and water penetration profile in the core and corona regions. We take into account the intermicellar correlation using an adhesive hard sphere model of Baxter. With this combine...
Investigation on the solid electrolyte interface formed on pyrolyzed photoresist carbon anodes for C-MEMS lithium-ion batteries

Carbon-microelectromechanical systems (C-MEMS) obtained from the pyrolysis of patterned photoresists are a powerful solution for the miniaturization of energy storage/conversion devices such as fuel-cells and microbatteries. The 3D shapes and the high aspect ratio of the resulting carbon structures are critical factors in applications where specific surface area plays a key role. Furthermore, lithographic techniques used in the C-MEMS technology may solve the downscaling problems of conventional carbon manufacturing techniques. The application of C-MEMS as a lithium-ion battery anode has already been demonstrated in our previous work. It is well known that a protective film, referred to as the solid electrolyte interface (SEI), forms on carbonaceous materials used as negative electrodes in commercial lithium-ion batteries. The passivating film forms during the first battery charging cycle. Detailed SEI investigations of this film, made up of electrolyte decomposition products, have not been explored yet. In this paper the evolution of the pyrolyzed carbon/electrolyte interface functioning as a lithium-ion battery anode is studied and discussed in detail.
The effects of oxygen and copper impurities on the structure of amorphous germanium

Abstract We investigated the structural changes which occur with the incorporation of oxygen into amorphous thin films of germanium. The oxygen content of the films was from 1 at.% to a maximum of 10 at.%. The scattered electron intensity for films containing 10 at.% O is similar to that for pure films, but the first amorphous halo is shifted from |s| = 1.923 A −1 to |s| = 1.88 A −1 , where |s| = 4π sin θ/λ and s is the momentum transfer vector. For lower oxygen concentrations this shift of the first amorphous halo is proportional to the oxygen content of the films. The radial distribution function of the oxygen-containing films has additional correlation peaks at 1.74, 2.98 and 4.83 A which are not observed for pure films. From these results we conclude that the effect of the oxygen is to form regions in the random network structure with interatomic distances which resemble those in the tetragonal phase of GeO2 (with some distortions), with the films remaining single-phase, homogenous and amorphous. Films which contain both 10.5 at.% O and 3.4 at.% Cu are shown to be phase separated and to contain widely spaced microcrystal up to 100 A in diameter.
Pessary use in advanced pelvic organ prolapse.

The objective of this study was to review our experience with pessary use for advanced pelvic organ prolapse. Charts of patients treated for Stage III and IV prolapse were reviewed. Comparisons were made between patients who tried or refused pessary use. A successful trial of pessary was defined by continued use; a failed trial was defined by a patient’s discontinued use. Thirty-two patients tried a pessary; 45 refused. Patients who refused a pessary were younger, had lesser degree of prolapse, and more often had urinary incontinence. Most patients (62.5%) continued pessary use and avoided surgery. Unsuccessful trial of pessary resorting to surgery included four patients (33%) with unwillingness to maintain, three patients (25%) with inability to retain and two patients (17%) with vaginal erosion and/or discharge. Our findings suggest that pessary use is an acceptable first-line option for treatment of advanced pelvic organ prolapse.
Reply: Remarks on Natural Convection as a Heat Engine

Abstract Emanuel and Bister discussed results of numerical experiments in which the radiative cooling rate of the atmosphere was arbitrarily specified. They suggested that the scaling theory for atmospheric convection proposed by Renno and Ingersoll is not consistent with these results and proposed an alternative theory. Klein, in turn, argued that the results of these numerical experiments are consistent with the scaling theory proposed by Renno and Ingersoll. The author shows further evidence in support of Klein’s arguments. Furthermore, it is shown that the alternative scaling theory proposed by Emanuel and Bister, though interesting, possesses a thermodynamic inconsistency.
13fJ/bit probing-resilient 250K PUF array with soft darkbit masking for 1.94% bit-error in 22nm tri-gate CMOS

A 250K probing-resilient PUF array with measured 2GHz operation and total energy consumption of 13fJ/bit at 0.9V, 25°C is fabricated in 22nm tri-gate CMOS. Hybrid PUF circuit with integrated load modulation and run- time soft dark-bit mask generation enables identification of unstable PUF bits with 100% accuracy, eliminating the need for multiple voltage/temperature characterization while also reducing bit-error down to 1.94%. Transient behavior of the hybrid PUF cell, along with the use of balanced local clock routing improves resiliency to invasive power-up probing attacks by 75%.
The relative contributions of examination-taking coping strategies and study coping strategies to test anxiety : A concurrent analysis

Both examination-taking coping strategies and study coping strategies are determinants of test anxiety. This study examines the contributions made by these two types of coping strategies on the anxiety/performance relationship, under two types of examination conditions. Twenty-six graduate students, who were enrolled in an intermediate-level statistics course, were assigned randomly to either an untimed or a timed examination condition. Both types of coping strategies made a significant contribution in explaining variance in test anxiety. Overall, students in the timed condition performed more poorly than did students in the untimed condition. A significant interaction was found between examination-taking coping strategies and examination condition: Students with poor coping strategies did not perform as well in the timed as in the untimed condition. No such interaction was found between study coping strategies and examination condition. The results appear consistent with an information-processing interpretation, which suggests that different processes related to test anxiety affect examination performance. Implications for counselors assisting students with inadequate coping strategies are discussed.
Effect of preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation ventilation days and age on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survival in critically ill children.

Abstract Purpose The aim of the study is to test the effect of age and preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation (pre-ECMO) days of ventilation on ECMO survival in the pediatric population. Methods Retrospective analysis of noncardiac, pediatric (age >30 days) ECMO patients for the period January 1984 to June 2006. Pre-ECMO demographic, ventilatory, and lung injury severity variables were modeled with stepwise logistic regression to estimate survival probabilities associated with pre-ECMO ventilation duration and patient age. Patients were excluded from review for the following: pre-ECMO cardiac arrest, pre-ECMO ventilation of more than 30 days (chronic), or multiple runs on ECMO. Results For the period of review, 2550 patients met inclusion/exclusion criteria. The population had a mean age of 3.6 ± 5.1 years (median age, 1 year). The mean pre-ECMO days of ventilation were 5.2 ± 4.9 (median, 4 days). The overall survival probability was 58.6%. The mean oxygen index and Pao 2 /Fio 2 ratio were 62.2 ± 48.2 and 95.5 ± 48.2, respectively. The population overall demonstrated a statistically significant, exponential decline in survival as pre-ECMO days of ventilation increased ( P Conclusions In the pediatric population, survival decreases significantly as pre-ECMO ventilator days increase. Survival is also inversely related to patient age. Thus, patient age and duration of ventilation should be considered when evaluating suitability for ECMO.
Regulation of intestinal IgA responses

The intestine harbors enormous numbers of commensal bacteria and is under frequent attack from food-borne pathogens and toxins. A properly regulated immune response is critical for homeostatic maintenance of commensals and for protection against infection and toxins in the intestine. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) isotype antibodies function specifically in mucosal sites such as the intestines to help maintain intestinal health by binding to and regulating commensal microbiota, pathogens and toxins. IgA antibodies are produced by intestinal IgA antibody-secreting plasma cells generated in gut-associated lymphoid tissues from naive B cells in response to stimulations of the intestinal bacteria and components. Research on generation, migration, and maintenance of IgA-secreting cells is important in our effort to understand the biology of IgA responses and to help better design vaccines against intestinal infections.
A discussion about the significance of absorbance and sample optical thickness in conventional absorption spectrometry and wavelength modulated laser absorption spectrometry: an alternative view

I must disagree with the general premise of this paper w1x, that laser-based modulation techniques cannot measure absorbance in the conventional manner. In the introduction of the paper, the authors state ‘‘laser-based modulation techniques in fact do not measure exactly the same physical quantities as conventional AAS techniques do’’. They further state ‘‘it is neither straightforward, nor extremely convenient, to compare a technique that measure the difference between the signals ‘on’ and ‘off’ resonance to an entity that is defined in terms of the logarithm of the ratio of the two intensities’’, and ‘‘Absorbance is not as natural for the modulated laserbased absorption techniques’’. These statements are inaccurate. First, all modulation techniques measure intensity, either with a photomultiplier tube or a solid state detector. Converting intensity to absorbance is a matter of signal processing. Second, processing methods for converting the ‘on’ and ‘off’ resonance to absorbance have been in the literature for 25 years. The key to computing absorbance is to measure the resonance signal (I yI), and the magnitude of I . Finally, expressing 0 0 measured signals in absorbance, the IUPAC standard, places laser-based modulation techniques on the same theoretical basis as all the other absorption techniques. In 1976, Zander, O’Haver and Keliher w2x measured ‘on’ and ‘off’ line resonance intensities (I yI) for atom0 ic absorption signals using a continuum source and an echelle spectrometer equipped with a quartz refractor plate sited behind the entrance slit. The resonance signals were detected in real-time with a lock-in amplifier. After completion of an experiment, the source intensity, I , was measured while atomizing a blank. The source 0
Airport noise modelling and aircraft scheduling so as to minimize community annoyance

Abstract A mathematical model of the annoyance created at an airport by aircraft operations is developed. The model incorporates population distribution considerations around an airport and the annoyance caused by aircraft noise. The objective function of this model corresponds to seeking to minimize total population annoyance created by all aircraft operations in a 24-hour period. Several factors are included in this model as constraint relationships. Aircraft operations by type and time period are upper bounded. Demand for flight services is incorporated by including lower bounds on the number of operations by type of aircraft, runway used and time period. Also upper bounds on the number of operations for each runway are included. The mathematical model as formulated is recognized as corresponding to a nonlinear integer mathematical programming problem. The solution technique selected makes use of a successive linear approximation optimization algorithm. An especially attractive feature of this solution algorithm is that it is capable of obtaining solutions to large problems. For example, it would be feasible to attempt the solution of problems involving several thousand variables and over 500 linear constraints. This suggested solution algorithm was implemented on a computer and computational results obtained for example problems.
Making smart IT choices: a bridge between theory and practice

Public managers often find themselves intimidated by Information Technology (IT) initiatives due to the high failure rates. However, well conceived, designed and implemented IT initiatives can be an affordable solution to organizational challenges. This article presents one of these cases, in which a small office of a New York State agency hired a graduate assistant to start a small scale IT initiative that is helping them deal with one of their major challenges. The article examines some of the major challenges that have been identified by the Information Technology Management academic literature and guides the reader through the strategies used to overcome them.
Ray-based Picture of Propagation-invariant Beams

Beams whose transverse intensity profile is preserved under propagation up to a rigid transformation (scaling, rotation, or displacement), such as HG, LG, IG, Airy and Bessel beams, are described in terms of rays. This description clarifies their behavior and shows a surprising amount of hidden geometry. Article not available.
Corrosion Resistance of Thiol- and Alkene-Passivated Germanium Nanowires

The corrosion resistance of organic monolayer-coated germanium (Ge) nanowires was tested by exposure to various harsh chemical treatments, including boiling water, concentrated sulfuric acid, and hydrogen peroxide. The Ge nanowires were grown by the supercritical fluid−liquid−solid (SFLS) process with in situ thermal hydrogermylation or thiolation, with alkyl monolayer coatings of varying chain length, from 6 to 18 C atoms. All of these nanowires exhibited almost-imperceptible surface oxidation in air or water, and degraded only when exposed to the harshest oxidative conditions. Nanowires with monolayers attached through Ge−C and Ge−S bonds exhibited similar corrosion resistance, except when exposed to peroxide, in which case the alkylated nanowires were more resistant to oxidation.
Open reduction internal fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures augmented with autogenous bone graft versus bioresorbable calcium phosphate: a comparative study

Background Recent studies have demonstrated that nonoperative treatment of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures have a high prevalence of symptomatic malunion and nonunion with nonoperative treatment [Hill et al. J Bone Joint Surg Br 79: 537–539, 1997; Mckee et al. J Trauma 47: 616, 2001; Simon Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 20: 521–525, 2010]. Although good results have been demonstrated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), complications still exist thus fixation was augmented. This retrospective study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) augmented with bioresorbable calcium phosphate (BCP) cement compared with standard autogenous bone grafting (ABG) of acute displaced, midshaft clavicle fractures.
Clathrate hydrate of oxygen: does it occur in deep-sea fish?

Abstract Oxygen exists in the swimbladder of some deep-sea fish at partial pressures that are more than twice the hydrate equilibrium pressure in water. Observations suggest that no hydrate forms to depths of 3500–4000 m. At greater depths, gas secretion may not occur because of the formation of hydrate.
Gaussian-beam-induced photorefractive birefringence and its application to radio-frequency signal excision

For Gaussian-beam-induced optical limiting based on photoconductive field shielding of electro-optic (EO) birefringence, power-limiting notch widths may be accurately determined by considering the power-limiting threshold for the photorefractive crystal where excess charge accumulates. With sufficient optical intensity the space-charge field completely screens the externally applied electric field, and only a small diffusion field remains. The upper limit of light intensity attenuation is the extinction ratio for the combination of polarizers and EO crystal.
What has happened to cardiac MRI

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has made significant technical advances over the past 20 years. There has been a steady increase in the number of scientific publications. Recent trends show that the rate of publications is increasing more rapidly for cardiology departments than for radiology departments. In examining PubMed citations, the majority of publications continue to be authored by both cardiologists and radiologists. Despite the growing research interest, relatively few clinically indicated cardiac MRI examinations are performed compared with competing tests. Competing technology and relatively poor reimbursement may in part explain the slow acceptance of cardiac MRI.
Collagen receptors mediate early events in the attachment of epithelial (MDCK) cells.

Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells kept in suspension culture for 12–15 hr displayed high-affinity binding sites for125I-lathyritic (soluble) collagen (120,000/cell,K D =30nm) and preferred collagens types I and IV over laminin or fibronectin as substrates during the first hour of attachment. On the other hand, after 4 hr, attachment to all four substrates was equally efficient. Upon challenge with a collagen substrate, the high-affinity sites were rapidly recruited on it (T1/2=6 min). Their occupancy by soluble collagen triggered the exocytosis of a second large population of low-affinity collagen binding sites that included laminin and seems to be involved in a second cell-attachment mechanism. These results are compatible with a twostep model of MDCK cell attachment to the substrate: first, via high-affinity collagen binding sites, and second, via laminin of cellular origin.
Power profiling of a reduced data movement algorithm for neutron cross section data in Monte Carlo simulations

Current Monte Carlo neutron transport applications use continuous energy cross section data to provide the statistical foundation for particle trajectories. This "classical" algorithm requires storage and random access of very large data structures. Recently, Forget et al.[1] reported on a fundamentally new approach, based on multipole expansions, that distills cross section data down to a more abstract mathematical format. Their formulation greatly reduces memory storage and improves data locality at the cost of also increasing floating point computation. In the present study we determine the hardware performance parameters, including power usage, of the multipole algorithm relative to the classical continuous energy algorithm. This study is done to guage the suitability of both algorithms for use on next-generation high performance computing platforms.
Nitric oxide: a downstream mediator of calcium toxicity in the ischemic cascade

Loss of cellular calcium homeostasis or the production of nitric oxide (NO) have been cited as possible mechanisms that may contribute to neuronal degeneration during ischemia. We therefore examined whether cellular calcium blockade, using the agent HA1077, was protective during anoxia in hippocampal neuronal cell cultures, and whether the in vitro effects of this drug were linked to the NO pathway. Administration of the agent during anoxia was neuroprotective in neuronal cell culture. In contrast, HA1077 did not protect hippocampal neurons during NO exposure. In addition, inhibition of NO synthesis in conjunction with HA1077 application during anoxia did not significantly increase survival beyond the maximum protection afforded by HA1077 alone. These results suggest that calcium may be an initial messenger in the ischemic cascade, but that subsequent neuronal degeneration is dependent upon the NO pathway.
Clinical problems of postoperative pulmonary vascular disease

The younger the patient with a large left to right shunt at the time of operation, the greater the likelihood that pulmonary vascular resistance will fall to normal thereafter. In older patients, the degree to which the pulmonary vascular resistance is elevated before operation is a critical factor determining operability and prognosis. Patients at particularly high risk for the development of significant pulmonary vascular obstruction early in life are those with certain forms of cyanotic congenital heart disease, such as complete transposition of the great arteries with ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus, and truncus arteriosus. Other conditions in which pulmonary vascular obstruction appears to progress rapidly include large ventricular septal defect, complete atrioventricular canal defect and left to right shunt lesions in an environment of high altitude or associated with unilateral pulmonary arterial absence of the Down's syndrome. In this report the framework is reviewed for recognizing that important pre- and postnatal modifiers of the pulmonary vascular bed may be lesion-dependent. Thus, the growth and development of the pulmonary vascular bed during fetal and early postnatal life, as well as the morphologic alterations described in detail by Heath and Edwards, are likely to determine the ultimate intensity and magnitude of pulmonary vascular obstruction. Commentary is also provided concerning the management of patients with high pulmonary vascular resistance during pregnancy and delivery, their response to exercise, and the possibility of medical treatment designed to reduce pulmonary vascular resistance, and perhaps prolong life and enhance its quality.
Tribological durability of silane monolayers on silicon.

We report the frictional performance and long-term tribological stability of various alkyl silane monolayer films on silicon by using pin-on-disk tribometry at ambient conditions. We show that the ...
Theoretical investigation of the gas-phase reactions of CrO(+) with ethylene.

The potential energy surfaces associated with the reactions of chromium oxide cation (CrO+) with ethylene have been characterized using density functional, coupled-cluster, and multireference methods. Our calculations show that the most probable reaction involves the formation of acetaldehyde and Cr+ via a hydride transfer involving the metal center. Our calculations support previous experimental hypotheses that a four-membered ring intermediate plays an important role in the reactivity of the system. We have also characterized a number of viable reaction pathways that lead to other products, including ethylene oxide. Due to the experimental observation that CrO+ can activate carbon−carbon bonds, a reaction pathway involving C−C bond cleavage has also been characterized. Since many of the reactions involve a change in the spin state in going from reactants to products, locations of these spin surface crossings are presented and discussed. The applicability of methods based on Hartree−Fock orbitals is also...
Human prostaglandin EP3 receptor isoforms show different agonist-induced internalization patterns

The human prostaglandin EP3 receptor comprises eight isoforms that differ in carboxyl-tail. We show here that the isoforms are trafficked differently. When expressed in HEK293 cells, the isoforms located to the cell surface, although a fraction of some remained in the cell. Upon prostaglandin E2 stimulation, EP3.I internalized almost completely, EP3.II, EP3.V, EP3.VI and EP3.f internalized to a lesser extent and EP3.III and EP3.IV did not internalize. Both EP3.I and EP3.f internalized with β-arrestin and internalization were blocked by a dominant negative form of Eps15, a clathrin-associated protein. Although EP3.II internalized, β-arrestin did not translocate with the receptor and internalization was not blocked by mutant Eps15. EP3.V and EP3.VI internalized to discrete areas of the cell with β-arrestin.
Copper-catalyzed diboration of ketones: facile synthesis of tertiary alpha-hydroxyboronate esters.

The diboration of ketones with the (ICy)CuOt-Bu catalyst was developed to provide access to tertiary α-hydroxyboronate esters. The (ICy)CuOt-Bu catalyst was generated in situ with (ICy)CuCl and NaOt-Bu to afford a more efficient catalyst than the preformed (ICy)CuOt-Bu. These conditions result in the diboration of various ketones in toluene at 50 °C in 2−22 h. Treatment of the resulting products with silica gel affords the corresponding α-hydroxyboronate esters.
Investigation of Relative Mobile Phone Size Preference Using Interactive Genetic Algorithms

There are 4.6 billion mobile phone subscriptions worldwide, yet relatively little is known about what leads to a highly desirable phone design. This study employed an Interactive Genetic Algorithm (IGA) to identify the relative importance of physical factors in mobile phone design, calculating factor preference ratios and the limits of user discriminability between levels of the factors. Ten participants interacted with a GUI running the IGA to iteratively evolve their preferred design. Screen size, button spacing, and phone radius were varied independently. Results showed that users strongly preferred their final designs over initial ones, validating the use of an IGA in this application. Vertical screen size and button spacing were significantly different between the first and last iterations. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed horizontal screen size preference varied between participants, and vertical screen size and phone radius were correlated. Future research needs are discussed, including ...