cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanics-based formulation for modeling of ultra high-performance fiber reinforced concrete material using bonded discrete elements

Abstract Ultra High-Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) possesses high strength and ductility relative to traditional concrete. As a relatively novel material, utilization of UHPFRC generally requires comprehensive studies on feasibility and applicability, where numerical modeling techniques become more convenient and cost-effective as compared to laboratory or field testing. In this study, a numerical model based on the bonded discrete element method is developed to simulate mechanical behaviors of UHPFRC materials. The formulation consists of three major components, which correspond to physical counterparts of fine aggregates, the cementitious matrix, and embedded steel fibers. A mechanics-based derivation is presented that facilitates calibration of the associated constitutive parameters. As validation of the numerical modeling and demonstration of the calibration procedure, results from laboratory experiments conducted on UHPFRC specimens are reproduced via simulation. In addition, parametric studies targeting the effect of particle size and packing are carried out to assess framework robustness.
Formation of Porous Structures by Directional Solidification of the Eutectic

Directional solidification of eutectics has self assembly characteristics that can fabricate two dimensional periodic arrays of two or more phases. The ordering of the phases can be utilized as a "lithographic technique" to produce parats structures for fabrication of miniature devices. Directional solidification by the Bridgman technique was applied to the eutectic system Si-TiSi 2 . Patterned growth of TiSi 2 rods occur in the silicon matrix during solidification. Micro-channel strucaure of pilar arrays of TiSi 2 was produced by silicon dissolution by KOH. Average rod diameter was 2.5 μm with 99% of the population falling in the 2-3 μm range. The inter-rod spacing ahowed small dependence upon growth rate, varying from 4.3 μm to 5.7 μm. Colony fomution could not be alppraaed for composition at and around the eutectic invariant point due to low thermal gradiont to growth rate ratio and contarmination from the crucible.
SERUM ANTIBODIES IN STAPHYLOCOCCAL DISEASE.

Serum antibody titers to the staphylococcal Muller factor and alpha-hemolysin were determined in population groups of various ages and in maternal-cord serum pairs. There was evidence for placental transmission of antibodies and after 2 years of age most persons demonstrated antibody to both of these staphylococcal extracellular products. Antibody titers in patients with staphylococcal lesions were usually in the upper range of those found in the normal population of similar age, but no striking or consistent elevation of titers was observed in association with or following staphylococcal disease. Exceptions, due in part perhaps to age, were found in patients with staphylococcal pneumonia whose sera often contained no measurable antibody and in certain patients with recurrent skin infection whose sera contained alpha-hemolysin antibodies but failed to demonstrate Muller factor antibodies. The general similarity of antibody titers in patients with staphylococcal lesions to those in normal persons suggests that the antibody response to staphylococcal Muller factor and to alpha-hemolysin is little different after a staphylococcal lesion than after nasal or cutaneous colonization. These findings emphasize that, in addition to antibodies to toxins, presently ill-defined cellular bactericidal mechanisms are necessary for complete defense against staphylococcal disease.
Graphics-to-video encoding for 3G mobile game viewer multicast using depth values

Towards the goal of streaming mobile network game sequences in standard compliant video to thousands of game observers, a specialized video encoder called grencoder that takes 3D game graphics as input is discussed. In particular, we present a framework that increases the visual quality of regions of interest (ROI) of the video by performing intelligent mode selection during h.263+ video encoding. The regions of interest are identified by extracting the depth values of pixels in the frame buffer made available when 3D objects are projected to a 2D surface during rasterization. Results show that by performing ROI mode selection, PSNR of test sequence slightly increases while subjective quality of nearby objects increases noticeably.
Traditional and Electronic Monitoring from an Organizational Justice Perspective

Performance monitoring was reviewed from an organizational justice perspective. Several predictors of perceived fairness were derived from this review and tested using employed respondents from eight different organizational settings (N = 301). Analyses confirmed that the predictors accounted for significant variance in perceived fairness in both electronically monitored and traditionally monitored work environments. These predictors were labeled monitoring consistency, knowledge of performance from monitoring, monitoring control, and justifications for monitoring.
Cryogenic Systems Integration Model (CSIM)

The Cryogenic Systems Integration Model (CSIM) is a Microsoft Windows® 95 based software tool for the simulation and analysis of spacecraft cryogenic mechanical refrigeration thermal control systems. Previous experience has shown that cryogenic systems exhibit large analytical uncertainties. Historically, cryogenic thermal integration has been critical and often inadequately considered during the preliminary design phase resulting in significant revisions and system penalties. CSIM development was initiated in response to the need for an efficient method for the preliminary design and parametric analysis of spacecraft cryogenic mechanical refrigeration systems.
Atmospheric Electrodynamics in the US: 1987–1990

Atmospheric electrodynamics research is summarized, focusing on three general areas: the ionosphere as a source for middle atmospheric electrodynamics, regional and global scale electrodynamics, and thunderstorms and lightning. New or improved instrumentation techniques which have furthered atmospheric electrodynamics research are also discussed.
Spectral memory & other applications of spatial-spectral holography

Optical devices have been slower to mature than those based purely on electronics. Yet optical interactions offer a number of unique capabilities expected to support entirely new classes of devices-devices offering unprecedented performance in communications, computing, and data storage applications. In the present work, optical devices based on the interaction of light with frequency-selective recording materials are discussed. A frequency-selective recording material has the capability of supporting multiple independent recording channels. Each channel is addressed by light within a specific narrow band of optical frequencies. In some materials, operative at cryogenic temperatures, millions of distinct spectral channels are available. Through the mechanism of persistent spectral hole-burning, light can be employed to transiently or even permanently modify the absorptive or dispersive properties of the recording material within a selected channel. Such modifications provide a means of recording multiple bits of optical information within single spatial locations. Spectral multiplexing of information has clear potential in information storage systems. Less obviously, the ability to spectrally encode information provides an enabling basis for ultrahigh speed, content-controlled, all-optical switching devices operable at data speeds up to the Terabit/sec level.
A neuroprosthesis for restoration of shoulder function in C5-C6 tetraplegia

Subjects with spinal cord injury at the C5 level have very little or no control over shoulder motions that move the arm towards the midline of the workspace. This limits their ability to perform daily activities in that part of the workspace, reducing their independence and quality of life. A shoulder neuroprosthesis based on functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) has been implemented and evaluated in an individual with C5 tetraplegia to restore shoulder horizontal flexion and adduction function lost to paralysis. The shoulder moments produced by the stimulated muscles were found to be similar in magnitude to maximum voluntary moments generated by antagonistic muscles, indicating that this neuroprosthesis will be adequate to provide increased function by use of retained voluntary control of the antagonistic muscles.
Variation of Cell-free Translation Profiles Among Pathogenic Strains of Soybean Mosaic Virus

Cell-free translation products from isolates representing soybean mosaic virus (SMV) strains G1 to G7 and G7a, along with several other SMV isolates, were analyzed. SMV RNAs were translated in both rabbit reticulocyte lysates and wheat germ extracts, yielding approximately 20 translation products for each strain from each translation system. Comparison of translation profiles by the presence or absence of proteins allowed for the formation of distinctive groups from each cell-free translation system. Groupings formed by analysis of products from rabbit reticulocyte lysates correlated with pathogenicity; groupings formed by analysis of products from wheat germ extracts had no apparent biological significance.
Some Factors Explaining Variations in Rents of Downtown Apartments for 49 Cities of the World

There exists a substantial variation in apartment rents between cities of the world. Several factors must contribute to inter-city variations in rents. This paper presents an empirical identification and measurement of some of the relevant factors explaining the variations in rents between a sample of forty-nine cities. The results of our empirical analysis show that the variables which explain inter-city variations in rents are: population size, costs of public and private intra-urban transport, tax assessments, and social insurance contributions.
Norms of assertion

Recently attention has been paid to the epistemic requirements for proper assertion. The most popular account has been the knowledge account, that we can only properly assert what we know. Others have criticized the knowledge account and argued that the norm of assertion is truth, belief, or assertion of what it is reasonable to believe.
THE KINETICS OF PENETRATION : IV. DIFFUSION AGAINST A GROWING POTENTIAL GRADIENT IN MODELS.

In a model consisting of a non-aqueous layer (representing the protoplasm) placed between an inner, more acid, aqueous layer (representing the sap) and an outer, more alkaline, aqueous solution (representing the external solution bathing a living cell) the penetration of potassium creates an outwardly directed potential against which potassium continues to diffuse inward, thereby increasing the outward potential. This continues until the steady state is reached. The potassium sets up less potential in entering than in escaping and the net result is an outwardly directed potential. A similar process appears to take place in certain living cells.
RPE65 gene delivery restores isomerohydrolase activity and prevents early cone loss in Rpe65-/- mice.

PURPOSE. Recent in vitro evidence has shown that RPE65 is the isomerohydrolase that converts all-trans retinyl ester to 11-cis retinal, the chromophore for visual pigments in vertebrates. Homozygous RPE65 knockout (Rpe65 -/- ) mice lack 11-cis retinoids and have early cone degeneration. The purpose of this study is to determine whether RPE65 gene delivery restores the isomerohydrolase activity and normal profile of endogenous retinoids in Rpe65 -/- mice. METHODS. Adenovirus-expressing RPE65 (Ad-RPE65) was injected into the subretinal space of Rpe65 -/- mice. The expression of RPE65 was determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. The isomerohydrolase activity was measured in vitro in eyecup homogenates. Endogenous retinoid profile in the eyecups was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Photoreceptor-specific gene expression was determined with real-time RT-PCR. Cone degeneration was determined by cone-specific staining and counting cones in flatmounted retina. RESULTS. High levels of RPE65 expression from the Ad-RPE65 injection generated robust isomerohydrolase activity in the eyecup of Rpe65 -/- mice, at levels comparable to those in wild-type (wt) mice. Consequently, the RPE65 gene delivery resulted in substantial amounts of 11-cis retinal in Rpe65 -/- mice. The RPE65 gene delivery prevented the downregulation of cone-specific genes, including both cone opsins and cone tranducin a subunit in Rpe65 -/- mice. Moreover, the Ad-RPE65 injection also prevented massive cone degeneration at early ages of Rpe65 -/- mice. CONCLUSIONS. RPE65 gene delivery generates isomerohydrolase activity and restores retinoid profile in Rpe65 -/- mice. Regeneration of 11-cis retinal is essential for survival of cone photoreceptors.
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 with multiple system degeneration and glial cytoplasmic inclusions

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is a dominantly inherited progressive neurological disorder characterized by neuronal degeneration and reactive gliosis in the cerebellum, brainstem, spinocerebellar tracts, and dorsal columns. Multiple system atrophy is a sporadic progressive neurological disorder with degeneration and gliosis in the basal ganglia, cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal autonomic nuclei, and with argyrophilic glial cytoplasmic inclusions. We describe 4 members of a family with the SCA1 mutation and a dominantly inherited progressive ataxia in which autopsy examination of 1 member showed neuropathological changes typical of multiple system atrophy, including glial cytoplasmic inclusions. In this patient, magnetic resonance imaging revealed marked brainstem and cerebellar volume loss and mild supratentorial generalized volume loss. Positron emission tomography with [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose revealed widespread hypometabolism in a pattern found in sporadic multiple system atrophy and not in dominantly inherited olivopontocerebellar atrophy. Positron emission tomography with [11C]flumazenil revealed normal benzodiazepine receptor distribution volumes, similar to those seen in sporadic multiple system atrophy. Two other family members still living had similar changes in the imaging studies. The findings in this family suggest that the SCA1 gene mutation can result in a disorder similar to multiple system atrophy, both clinically and neuropathologically.
Laser-Induced Fluorescence Photogrammetry for Dynamic Characterization of Membrane Structures

Photogrammetry has proven to be a valuable tool for static and dynamic profiling of membrane-based inflatable and ultralightweight space structures. However, the traditional photogrammetric targeting techniques used for solid structures, such as attached retroreflective targets and white-light dot projection, have some disadvantages and are not ideally suited for measuring highly transparent or reflective membrane structures. In this paper, we describe a new laser-induced-fluorescence-based target generation technique that is more suitable for these types of structures. We also present several examples of noncontact noninvasive photogrammetric measurements of laser-dye doped polymer membranes, including the dynamic measurement and modal analysis of a 1 m X 1 m aluminized membrane.
Coherent Imaging Spectroscopy of a Quantum Many-Body Spin System

Quantum simulators, in which well-controlled quantum systems are used to reproduce the dynamics of less understood ones, have the potential to explore physics inaccessible to modeling with classical computers. However, checking the results of such simulations also becomes classically intractable as system sizes increase. Here, we introduce and implement a coherent imaging spectroscopic technique, akin to magnetic resonance imaging, to validate a quantum simulation. We use this method to determine the energy levels and interaction strengths of a fully connected quantum many-body system. Additionally, we directly measure the critical energy gap near a quantum phase transition. We expect this general technique to become a verification tool for quantum simulators once experiments advance beyond proof-of-principle demonstrations and exceed the resources of conventional computers.
Self's Dark Circle: The Home-Founding Journey in Paul Theroux's The Mosquito Coast and Stephen Minot's Ghost Images

(1989). Self's Dark Circle: The Home-Founding Journey in Paul Theroux's The Mosquito Coast and Stephen Minot's Ghost Images. Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction: Vol. 30, No. 4, pp. 227-238.
Risk, Opportunism, and Structural Holes: How Headhunters Manage Clients and Earn Fees

Headhunters find candidates for jobs. They are paid by their clients—employers—when the candidates they generate accept job offers. Headhunters, therefore, resemble other third-party agents or brok...
Prediction of drug sensitivity in individuals with atypical serum cholinesterase based on in vitro biochemical studies.

Abstract V max and K m values with twenty-five “atypical” and thirty-seven “usual” cholinesterase human sera were determined for the cholinesterase substrates procaine, tetracaine, benzoylcholine, o -nitro-phenylbutyrate, α-naphthylacetate and aspirin. Aspirin was demonstrated to be a substrate for serum cholinesterase. For each of these substrates the ratio of V max substrate to V max benzoylcholine was found to be similar with atypical and usual cholinesterase sera. Therefore, we concluded that the respective turnover numbers for atypical and usual cholinesterase were the same. Both atypical and usual cholinesterase sera had turnover numbers of 255 min −1 for procaine, 74 min −1 for tetracaine, 7200 min −1 for aspirin in the presence of 50 mM CaCl 2 36,000 min −1 for α-naphthylacetate, and 48,000 min −1 for o -nitrophenylbutyrate, at 25° in 0.1 M Tris-Cl buffer, pH 7.4. A comparison of K m values for atypical and usual cholinesterase indicated that the positively charged substrates, as well as aspirin in the presence of CaCl 2 , showed a lower affinity with atypical than with usual cholinesterase, while neutral esters had nearly the same K m for atypical and usual cholinesterase. These results imply that individuals with atypical cholinesterase will hydrolyze therapeutic doses of positively charged substrates and aspirin at reduced rates, but neutral substrates should be hydrolyzed at normal rates.
A Comparative Study of a Cyclic AMP-Like Compound Isolated from Higher Plants and Adenosine 3′,5′-Pyrophosphate Found in the Red Alga Porphyra perforata

Adenosine 3′,5′-pyrophosphate, previously isolated from the red alga Porphyra perforata, possesses biological properties similar to those of a cyclic AMP-like compound isolated from higher plants. Both compounds are potent inhibitors of bovine cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase and bovine phosphodiesterase.
Treatment of pediatric hodgkin lymphoma.

We are increasingly successful in the treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma. Current risk adapted trials seek to maintain the excellent efficacy of older therapies, while simultaneously limiting their late toxicities. Current management of early stage/favorable disease involves the use of two to four cycles of tailored chemotherapy, often followed by low-dose, involved field radiation. Those with intermediate and advanced stage disease require more intense chemotherapy and radiation regimens. Functional imaging using [18F]-2 fluoro-D-2-deoxyglucose is increasingly used to determine complete vs. partial response and to detect relapse. Given the success of primary therapy, retrieval of patients remains a highly individualized challenge. The majority of children failing combined-modality treatment undergo high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell rescue, oftentimes with consolidative radiotherapy.
Analysis of Cyclic Fatty Acid Monomer 2-Alkenyl-4,4-dimethyloxazoline Derivatives by Gas Chromatography−Matrix Isolation−Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy

Recently, cyclic fatty acid monomers (CFAMs) were isolated from heated flaxseed (linseed) oil and analyzed as methyl ester (ME) derivatives by capillary gas chromatography−matrix isolation−Fourier ...
Frizzled-7 and limb mesenchymal chondrogenesis: Effect of misexpression and involvement of N-cadherin

Products of the Frizzled family of tissue polarity genes have been identified as putative receptors for the Wnt family of signaling molecules. Wnt-signaling is implicated in the regulation of limb mesenchymal chondrogenesis, and our recent study indicates that N-cadherin and related activities are functionally involved in Wnt-7a-mediated inhibition of chondrogenesis. By using an in vitro high-density micromass culture system of chick limb mesenchymal cells, we have analyzed the spatiotemporal expression patterns and the effects on chondrogenesis of RCAS retroviral-mediated misexpression of Chfz-1 and Chfz-7, two Frizzled genes implicated in chondrogenic regulation. Chfz-1 expression was localized at areas surrounding the cartilaginous nodules at all time points examined, whereas Chfz-7 expression was limited to cellular aggregates during initial mesenchymal condensation, and subsequently was down-regulated from the centers toward the periphery of cartilage nodules at the time of chondrogenic differentiation, resembling the pattern of N-cadherin expression. Chondrogenesis in vitro was inhibited and limited to a smaller area of the culture upon misexpression of Chfz-7, but not affected by Chfz-1 misexpression. Analyses of cellular condensation and chondrogenic differentiation showed that the inhibitory action of Chfz-7 is unlikely to be at the chondrogenic differentiation step, but instead affects the earlier precartilage aggregate formation event. At 24 hr, expression of N-cadherin, a key component of the cellular condensation phase of chondrogenesis, was delayed/suppressed in Chfz-7 misexpressing cultures, and was limited to a significantly smaller cellular condensation area within the entire culture at 48 hr, when compared with control cultures. Chfz-1 misexpressing cultures appeared similar to control cultures at all time points. However, neither Chfz-1 nor Chfz-7 misexpression affected mesenchymal cell proliferation in vitro. These results suggest that Chfz-7 is active in regulating N-cadherin expression during the process of limb mesenchymal chondrogenesis and that Chfz-1 and Chfz-7 are involved in different Wnt-signaling pathways.
Electromigration in Sintered Nanoscale Silver Films at Elevated Temperature

Sintered nanoscale silver is a promising interconnection material for semiconductor devices because it provides improved joint properties compared with solder and wire bonds. It has higher electrical and thermal conductivity and is capable of higher operating temperature. Joints with die shear strength above 20 MPa can be formed at around 250°C even without applied pressure. Sintered silver joints were also found to be an order of magnitude more reliable than solder joints and wire bonds. In this work, the electromigration behavior of sintered nanosilver material under conditions of high applied current density and elevated temperature was investigated. Thin strips of sintered nanosilver formed on ceramic substrates were tested under current densities exceeding 150 kA/cm2 at temperatures of 150°C and above. Results based on the percentage change in sample resistance showed that the sintered silver lasted at least ten times longer than aluminum wire bonds. Examination of failed strips revealed that hairline cracks formed during sintering were the main cause of failure. Otherwise, defect-free samples exhibited a 10-fold increase in lifetime over wire bonds under similar conditions.
Effects of experimental forest management on a terrestrial, woodland salamander in Missouri

Successful multi-use planning for forested landscapes requires an understanding of timber management effects on wildlife species. Lungless, woodland salamanders depend on forested habitats and are sensitive to changes in temperature and moisture associated with many forestry practices. Additionally, woodland salamanders are territorial and have relatively low vagility, making it unlikely that they can successfully migrate to more favorable habitat when the surrounding forest is harvested. Therefore, we examined the abundance of the Western Slimy Salamander, Plethodon albagula, in an experimentally manipulated forest in central Missouri. We used artificial cover object searches to compare salamander abundance in three replicate treatments that were clear-cut then burned to reduce maple regeneration, clear-cut and not burned, partially harvested, and un-manipulated control forest. We captured a total of 300 Western Slimy Salamanders between April 2007 and September 2011. We found significantly fewer salamanders in the burn and clear-cut treatments compared with the partial and control treatments. We also found a lower proportion of juveniles and had fewer recaptures in the burn and clear-cut than in the partial and control treatments. Consistent with other studies of woodland salamanders, our results suggest that for at least the first 7 years post-harvest, clear-cutting is detrimental to woodland salamander populations. This initial reduction in abundance combined with the further reduced proportion of juveniles may have longer lasting effects even as the forest regenerates. Finally, it appears that timber harvest resulting in limited canopy thinning may be compatible with maintaining populations of Western Slimy Salamanders in Missouri.
Nonequilibrium lattice models: Series analysis of steady states

A perturbation theory for steady states of interacting particle systems is developed and applied to several lattice models with nonequilibrium critical points near an absorbing state. The expansion is expressed directly in terms of the kinetic parameter (creation rate), rather than in powers of the interaction. An algorithm for generating series expansions for local properties is described. Order parameter series (16 terms) and precise estimates of critical properties are presented for the one-dimensional contact process and several related models.
The "case" of George Frideric Handel.

George Frideric Handel was the first of the great entrepreneurial composers. Giants often become the centers of myth, and Handel was no exception. The Handelian myths include serious solemn religio...
Methionine metabolism in mammals: the biochemical basis for homocystinuria.

Abstract Three genetic disorders result in “homo-cystinuria”. Of these, cystathionine synthase deficiency is the most common. Impairment of N 5 -methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase, due to either deficient coenzyme synthesis (derangement of B 12 metabolism) or to reduced substrate availability (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency), is the basis for the other two forms. Analyses of the pathobiochemistry caused by these defects is essential for the development of rational and appropriate therapy. Such studies have the additional benefit of illuminating the pattern of methionine metabolism in the normal human.
Violence on Inpatient Psychiatric Units: State of the Science:

BACKGROUND: The current thrust toward evidence-based practice requires the use of systematic evaluations of clinically relevant research to guide practice.OBJECTIVE:The aim of this systematic liter...
The Isnād and the Production of Cultural Memory: Ibn Abbās as a Case Study

The reputation of Abd Allāh b. Abbās as the greatest early exegete of the Qurān began as a product of Abbasid propaganda. Even his biography is suspect. To focus exclusively on the issue of authenticity, however, is to neglect the cultural memory he represents within Sunni Muslim tafsīr . Within the matn s of the thousands of hadīth s attributed to him, he is the mythic embodiment, the cultural memory, of the acceptable range of diversity that “re-collects” and helps unify the (Sunni) Muslim community. The Isnād s also preserve an independent cultural memory. In them, Ibn Abbās is the embodiment of an ideal: he stands as the cipher for the exegetical methodology that bases itself on the Qurān and on the Prophet and his Companions. The Ibn Abbās of the Isnād s represents the connection to and communication with these sources of knowledge that the Ibn Abbās of the matn s seems to have rarely employed.
Use of inhaler devices in pediatric asthma.

Inhalation is the preferred route for asthma therapy, since it offers a rapid onset of drug action, requires smaller doses, and reduces systemic effects compared with other routes of administration. Unfortunately, inhalation devices are frequently used in an empirical manner rather than on evidence-based awareness.A wide variety of nebulizers are available. Conventional jet nebulizers are highly inefficient, as much of the aerosol is wasted during exhalation. However, incorporating an extra open vent into the system has considerably increased the amount of drug that patients receive. Breath-assisted open vent nebulizers limit the loss of aerosol during exhalation, but are dependent on the patient's inspiratory flow. Ultrasonic nebulizers produce a high mass output and have a short nebulization time, but are inefficient for delivering suspensions or viscous solutions. Adaptive aerosol delivery devices release a precise dose that is tailored to the individual patient's breathing pattern. Nebulizers have several drawbacks, and their use should be limited to patients who cannot correctly manage other devices.Pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDI) are practical, cheap and multidose. However, there are several problems with their use. Breath-actuated MDI are easy to use and can be activated by very low flow. However, young children may not be able to use them efficiently. Dry powder inhalers (DPI) are portable and easy to use. They are indicated either for rescue bronchodilator therapy or for regular treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. The use of spacers reduces oropharyngeal deposition and improves drug delivery to the lung. Spacers do not require patient coordination, but some general rules must be followed for their optimal use.Thus, the choice of a delivery device mainly depends on the age of the patient, the drug to be administered and the condition to be treated. Proper education is also essential when prescribing an inhalation device.
Swarm motility of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is inhibited by compounds from fruit peel extracts.

Significance and Impact of the Study: Controlling the spread of food-borne pathogens in moist environ- ments is an important microbial food safety issue. Isolation of compounds from agricultural waste (such as fruit peels) that would control spread of human pathogens was explored using Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium as a model organism. Pomegranate peels offer great potential as a bioactive repellent for pathogenic micro-organisms. Abstract Controlling spread of human pathogens on fresh produce is a top priority for public health reasons. Isolation of compounds from agricultural waste that would control spread of human pathogens was explored using Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium as a model organism. In the environment, micro-organisms migrate as a 'community' especially when they move on moist surfaces. This type of motility is characterized as swarming motility. We examined extracts from agricultural waste such as soya bean husk, peels of orange, pineapple, avocado and pomegranate for antiswarming activity. Avocado and pineapple peels showed moderate (~40%) inhibition of swarming motility while pomegranate peel extract had high antiswarming activity (~85% inhibition) and was examined in further detail. Although the pomegranate peel extract was acidic, swarm-inhibitory activity was not due to low pH and the peel extract did not inhibit growth of Salmonella. Among the key swarm motility regulatory genes, class II (fliF, fliA, fliT and fliZ) and class III (fliC and fliM) regulators were downregulated upon exposure to pomegranate peel extract. Pomegranate peels offer great potential as a bioactive repellent for pathogenic micro-organisms on moist surfaces.
Rupture of the Radial Collateral Ligament of the Metacarpo-Phalangeal Joint of the Index Finger: A Report of Three Cases

We have diagnosed and treated three patients with complete rupture of the radial collateral ligament of the metacarpo-phalangeal joint of the index finger. Rupture of the radial collateral ligament of the metacarpo-phalangeal joint occurs most commonly in the little finger and has not previously been reported in the index finger. Operative treatment is recommended in all cases, due to the significant stresses placed on the radial side of the M.P. joint of the index finger.
Risk and the Press

Press reporting is instrumental in creating public attitudes towards technological risk and related problems of health, and in shaping the policy agenda. This paper uses examples from the coverage of the health effects of dioxin, to explore some characteristics of risk reporting. It suggests how risk reporting reflects both, the constraints of journalism and the attitudes of scientists and industrial sources of information as they seek to manipulate press coverage of risk through increasingly sophisticated public relations.
Persistent improvement of cardiovascular risk factors in spontaneously hypertensive rats following early short-term captopril treatment.

This study was designed to determine whether an improvement in cardiovascular risk factors persists in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) following withdrawal of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I) treatment. SHR were given deionized drinking water or captopril solution from four to sixteen weeks of age. At twelve weeks of age, rats from each group were instrumented with radiotelemetry devices for continuous monitoring of blood pressure. Mean arterial blood pressure was significantly lower in captopril-treated SHR during treatment (92±2 vs 147±1 mm Hg), and at twelve weeks after treatment withdrawal (131±2 vs 158±2 mm Hg). In addition, proteinuria, renal vascular resistance, plasma triglyceride levels, fasting glucose levels, postprandial insulin levels, and heart weights were significantly reduced in the treated SHR compared to control SHR, at time-points between three to seven months after captopril withdrawal. Our findings indicate that short-term administration of an ACE-I during the de...
Sequence and Regional Distribution of the mRNA Encoding the α2 Polypeptide of Rat γ‐Aminobutyric AcidA Receptors

A cDNA from a rat hippocampal cDNA library encodes an isoform of the alpha polypeptide of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)/benzodiazepine (BZ) receptor. Its deduced amino acid sequence is 96% identical to that of the alpha 2 polypeptide of the bovine GABAA receptor. The polypeptide has features shared by all previously reported GABAA receptor alpha polypeptides and shares 71-76% identity with previously described rat alpha polypeptides. Most of the differences lie in the presumed extracellular and intracellular domains. On Northern blots, the alpha 2 cDNA detects two mRNAs, which are found in cortex, hippocampus, and striatum, brain regions enriched in pharmacologically defined "BZ type II" receptors. Other workers have previously shown that the alpha polypeptides of the GABAA receptor largely determine the BZ binding properties of reconstituted receptors. The distribution of alpha 2 mRNAs in rat brain suggests that the alpha 2 subunit may indeed be involved in the BZ type II receptors.
Methylene excitation energies, transition probabilities, and frequency dependent polarizabilities

Abstract The electronic structure of the low-lying valence states of the polyatomic free radical methylene (CH 2 ) is investigated at two different geometries using multiconfigurational self-consistent field (MC SCF) and multiconfigurational random phase approximation (MC TDHF MC RPA) techniques. Oscillator strengths and polarizabilities of CH 2 are also examined with the MC TDHF MC RPA.
A note on the symmetric and non-symmetric modes of bounded plasmas†

In this note the dispersion relations of the two modes which can exist in a non-homogeneous and anisotropic plasma bounded by two planes are discussed. It was found that there is qualitatively agreement for both modes. In addition, a new propagating band was found at the intermediate value of the ratio ωc/ωpo.
Regulation of the prepronociceptin gene and its effect on neuronal differentiation

Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (NOP/OFQ) is the endogenous ligand for the NOP receptor and is processed from a precursor protein in the family of opioid peptides. Prepronociceptin (ppN/OFQ) mRNA has been shown to be upregulated by an increase in cAMP, a treatment that leads to differentiation of NS20Y neuroblastoma cells. Although a large increase in endogenous ppN/OFQ mRNA upon cAMP stimulation can be shown in cellular systems, a similar increase cannot be expressed in pGL3 luciferase vector containing 1.3 kb proximal promoter, suggesting that a larger portion of the sequence or a different chromatin structure is necessary for a fully functional promoter. The induction of ppN/OFQ mRNA by cAMP appears to be mediated by a cAMP-response element. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays show that CREB is recruited to the promoter region upon treatment of NS20Y cells with dibutyryl cAMP. In addition, the production of ppN/OFQ mRNA is regulated by histone acetylation, also through CREB, as the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor trichostatin A increases both CREB binding to the promoter and ppN/OFQ mRNA expression. In rat progenitor and mouse neuroblastoma cell lines, agents that increase ppN/OFQ mRNA expression also induce neurite outgrowth, suggesting a close relationship between ppN/OFQ and cellular differentiation.
Atmospheric chemistry of the monoterpene reaction products nopinone, camphenilone, and 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene

Rate constants for the gas-phase reactions of OH radicals with nopinone (6,6-dimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptan-2-one) and camphenilone (3,3-dimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one) and for the reactions of 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene with OH and NO3 radicals and O3 have been measured at 296±2 K. The rate constants (cm3 molecule−1 s−1 units) obtained were, for reaction with the OH radical: nopinone, (1.43±0.37)×10−11; camphenilone, (5.15±1.44)×10−12; and 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene, (1.29±0.33)×10−10; for reaction with the NO3 radical: 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene, (1.05±0.38)×10−11; and for reaction with O3: 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene, (1.50±0.53)×10−16. These data are used to calculate the tropospheric lifetimes of these monoterpene atmospheric reaction products.
Comparison of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty outcome and hospital costs for low-volume and high-volume operators☆

Abstract Whether higher operator case volume is associated with improved percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) clinical and cost outcomes is the subject of this study. Hospital volume-related improvement in clinical outcomes has been shown for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and PTCA. Physician case volume-related differences in clinical outcomes have not been clearly demonstrated, and differences in hospital costs have not been examined. For clinical and cost outcomes, risk-adjusted analysis of differences in PTCA outcomes has not been reported. In addition, controversy exists about the appropriate annual case volume considered adequate to maintain skills and achieve optimal clinical outcomes in performing PTCA procedures. We studied 2,350 PTCAs performed between March 1, 1991, and February 28, 1994. Physicians were divided into 2 volume groups: high (≥50 cases/year) and low (
Machine Vision Based Surface Finish Inspection for Cutting Tool Replacement in Production

A quick and reliable assessment of machined surface finish is required for quality control in shop floors. This paper presents a machine-vision-based approach to inspect the turned surface in finishing operations. The distribution pattern from a laser scattering image is used to characterize the topography of the surface finish and to set criteria for cutting tool replacement. Compared with conventional surface inspections, this approach gives a feasible solution to assure machined surface finish and to establish reasonable criteria for cutting tool replacement in production.
Altered electrophoretic mobilities of some erythrocytic enzymes as a function of their age.

A NUMBER of recent reports1,2 have indicated that the in vitro storage of human red blood cells leads to an increased electrophoretic mobility of some enzymes (for example, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, acid phosphatases) when compared with the mobility of the same enzyme obtained from fresh blood. This finding parallels that previously reported for haemoglobin derived from fresh or stored red cells3.
The Dead Baby

The ghosts of Nazi history haunted my work with a German patient. The burnt landscape of the unresolved tragedy between Nazis and Jews saturated our work with transgenerational excess of unspeakable violence. My patient came to discover that she has not been able to avoid reenacting a horrific cycle of crime and punishment. Together we struggled to maintain solidarity and narrate history despite a pull towards reenacting an international tribune. The case brings to the fore the challenge of maintaining an ongoing analytic space and subjective sovereignty when powerful collective issues flood the field. When such a space is created, psychoanalytic work has the potential to join the forces that mend history.
Conservative management of placenta percreta with involvement of the ileum.

A woman with hemorrhagic placenta percreta involving the ileum was successfully managed by repair of the anterior uterine wall and segmental ileal resection with primary reanastamosis.
SOP for pathway inference in Integrated Microbial Genomes (IMG)

One of the most important aspects of genomic analysis is the prediction of which pathways, both metabolic and non-metabolic, are present in an organism. In IMG, this is carried out by the assignment of IMG terms, which are organized into IMG pathways. Based on manual and automatic assignment of IMG terms, the presence or absence of IMG pathways is automatically inferred. The three categories of pathway assertion are asserted (likely present), not asserted (likely absent), and unknown. In the unknown category, at least one term necessary for the pathway is missing, but an ortholog in another organism has the corresponding term assigned to it. Automatic pathway inference is an important initial step in genome analysis.
An electromechanical hypothesis for ciliary coordination in ciliated protozoa.

Abstract A new electrochemical hypothesis is proposed to explain ciliary coordination. The hypothesis states that, whenever a cilium beats, the membrane immediately surrounding the cilium is strained. The strain allows a local increase in ionic permeability so ions may flow down an electrochemical gradient and trigger activity in nearby cilia not in a refractory state.
Single-balloon enteroscopy effectively enables diagnostic and therapeutic retrograde cholangiography in patients with surgically altered anatomy.

Background In patients with surgically altered anatomy, ERCP is often unsuccessful. Single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE) enables deep intubation of the small bowel, permitting diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP in this subset of patients. Objective To determine the effectiveness of SBE in performing endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) in patients with surgically altered anatomy. Design Case series. Setting Large quaternary-care center. Patients Thirteen patients (11 women) underwent 16 SBE procedures with ERCP. Patient anatomy consisted of Whipple (n = 3), hepaticojejunostomy (n = 3), Billroth II (n = 1), and Roux-en-Y (n = 9). Interventions Patients with surgically altered anatomy in whom standard ERCP techniques had failed or were not possible underwent ERC by using SBE with initial therapeutic intent. Main Outcome Measurements Success rates of diagnostic ERC and therapeutic ERC in those patients who required biliary intervention. Procedure-related complications were also assessed. Results Diagnostic ERC was successful 12 (92.3%) of 13 patients and in 13 (81.3%) of 16 cases. Therapeutic ERC was required in 10 patients in whom diagnostic ERC was first accomplished, and therapeutic ERC was successful in 9 (90%) of 10 patients. Biliary interventions included balloon dilation (n = 4), stone extraction (n = 2), sphincterotomy (n = 4), removal of a surgically placed stent (n = 3), and stenting (n = 2). Two patients developed pancreatitis after therapeutic ERC. Median follow-up was 53 days (range 22-522 days). Overall procedural success in an intent-to-treat analysis by case was 75%. Limitation Single-center experience. Conclusion SBE enables diagnostic and therapeutic ERC in most patients with altered anatomy. SBE-assisted therapeutic ERC may be associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis. Improvement of the available equipment is necessary to perform more efficient and effective biliary interventions.
Simulation of Static Flying Attitudes with Different Heat Transfer Models for a Flying-Height Control Slider with Thermal Protrusion

The thermal flying height control (TFC), aka dynamic fly height (DFH), technique has been recently used in the head disk interface of hard disk drives to obtain a lower head-media spacing. The air bearing cooling effect, i.e., the heat conduction between the slider and the air film, has been incorporated in the numerical thermal–mechanical simulation of the slider’s static performance. However, the heating effect of the viscous dissipation of the air flow has not been considered yet. In this article, both effects are included in the simulation of a flying slider with its flying height controlled by thermal protrusion, and different models for the air bearing cooling are used to obtain the slider’s static flying attitudes. The simulation results directly show that the air bearing cooling is dominant compared with the viscous heating. All of the air bearing cooling models, including a recent one that considers the dependence of the air molecular mean free path on the air temperature, have simulation results close to each other. The largest relative difference in the simulated flying height is less than 9% even when the transducer flying height is lowered to below 2 nm.
COMBINED EFFECTS OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION, CARCASS POSTURE AND INSULATED BAGS ON RAM LAMB TENDERNESS

Thirty-six ram lambs fed a high roughage diet from weaning to 6 months of age and 48 kg body weight at slaughter were assigned randomly to six postmortem (PM) treatments: (1) control; (2) carcasses placed in insulated bags (B) for 24h PM; (3) carcasses suspended via the coccygeal vertebrae (P); (4) electrical stimulation (ES); (5) ES combined with B for 24 h PM; and (6) ES combined with P for 1.5 h poststimulation then suspended via the achilles tendon. Stimulation improved shear values for the longissimus and rectus femoris muscles. Method B without ES reduced shear values for the Longissimus, Semimembranosus, biceps femoris and rectus femoris. Use of method P without ES reduced shear values for the longissimus and semimembranosus. Combining ES with method B reduced shear values for all the muscles evaluated. Similar results were found when combining ES with method P.
A study of the polarization of the light emitted by incandescent solid and liquid surfaces

In spite of the prodigious activity of physicists during the first three quarters of this century in attacking the problems of reflection, refraction, and polarization in all their different phases, both from the side of experiment and that of mathematical theory, the problem of polarization of light by emission seems to have received comparatively little attention. Although the fact that incandescent solids and liquids emit, at oblique angles of emergence, partially polarized light, was discovered more than seventy years ago, it does not appear even to-day to be very generally known. Few, even of the more complete text-books on physics, make any mention of the fact.