cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stress ulcer disease in the burned patient

Stress-induced ulcers of the stomach and duodenum in massively burned patients, otherwise known as Curling's ulcers, result from a defect in the mucosal barrier to secreted acid. The etiology of this defect is related, at least in part, to mucosal ischemia, which is aggravated by hypotension, sepsis, and hypoxia. Early prophylactic administration of antacids and cimetidine, either singly or in combination, has significantly reduced the occurrence of the life-threatening complications of these lesions. When preventive measures have failed or have not been utilized and massive bleeding or perforation has occurred, these complications of Curling's ulcer appear to be best treated by gastric resection combined with vagotomy.
Sex and Grade Level Differences in Marijuana Use among Youth.

A total of 54,361 students in seventh through twelfth grades completed a survey examining the impact of perceived harm of marijuana use, ease of access in obtaining marijuana, and perceived parent/peer disapproval of marijuana use on youth involvement in annual and recent marijuana use. Results indicated that 1 in 6 (16%) students used marijuana in the past year, while 1 in 10 (10%) used marijuana in the past month. Students at highest risk for marijuana use were those who felt use was not harmful/somewhat harmful, felt it was easy/very easy to access marijuana, and had parents/peers who did not disapprove of use. Findings can assist prevention specialists to more thoroughly understand how perceived harm, ease of access, and parent/peer disapproval affect marijuana use among youth. Consistent parent-child communication on marijuana use should be encouraged.
Demography of the intertidal brown alga Pelvetia fastigiata in Southern California, USA

The demography of Pelvetia fastigiata was studied from 1973 through 1977 in the intertidal zone near La Jolla, California, USA. Populations were usually small and relatively stable as new recruits replaced older individuals that were lost; however, in 1977 high recruitment substantially increased total abundances. The survivorship of recruits was similar regardless of the season or year of recruitment. Mortality rates decreased with age, and the mean life expectancy continued to increase for at least 1 yr. Losses of juveniles were high; 50% lived 80 d and only 9% survived to the age of first reproduction (about 1.5 yr). Plants present at the start of the study had higher survivorship rates than new recruits, 19 and 7%, respectively, living more than 3 yr. Individuals within aggregations of large plants lived longer than most dispersed individuals, and aggregations remained intact throughout the study in spite of low recruitment. Established individuals had low mortality rates and populations probably relied on these persistent individuals for reproduction.
Surface modification and functionalization of semiconductor quantum dots through reactive coating of silanes in toluene

We have reported a general method for biocompatible modification and multi-functionalization of semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) through direct reaction of organic silanes on the surface of semiconductor QDs. Functionalized QDs, including CdSe/ZnS, CdSe/CdS core/shell and PbS QDs, have been prepared at high concentration up to 10−4 M in homogeneous media, i.e. toluene. Fluorescence spectra and TEM images indicate that the modified QDs exhibit strong fluorescence and single particle features, respectively. Fluorescence images show that biocompatible CdSe/ZnS QDs are internalized into SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells after hydrophilic modification. Additionally, methacrylate-modified QDs have been used as monomers for radical polymerization.
SQL query optimization through nested relational algebra

Most research work on optimization of nested queries focuses on aggregate subqueries. In this article, we show that existing approaches are not adequate for nonaggregate subqueries, especially for those having multiple subqueries and certain comparison operators. We then propose a new efficient approach, the nested relational approach, based on the nested relational algebra. The nested relational approach treats all subqueries in a uniform manner, being able to deal with nested queries of any type and any level. We report on experimental work that confirms that existing approaches have difficulties dealing with nonaggregate subqueries, and that the nested relational approach offers better performance. We also discuss algebraic optimization rules for further optimizing the nested relational approach and the issue of integrating it into relational database systems.
Assembly and Distributive Action of an Archaeal DNA Polymerase Holoenzyme

The assembly and enzymatic ability of the replication DNA polymerase holoenzyme from Sulfolobus solfataricus (Sso) was investigated using presteady-state fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays coupled with functional and structural studies. Kinetic experiments reveal that ATP binding to replication factor C (RFC) is sufficient for loading the heterotrimeric PCNA123 [proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)] clamp onto DNA that includes a rate-limiting conformational rearrangement of the complex. ATP hydrolysis is required for favorable recruitment and interactions with the replication polymerase (PolB1) that most likely include clamp closing and RFC dissociation. Surprisingly, the assembled holoenzyme complex synthesizes DNA distributively and with low processivity, unlike most other well-characterized DNA polymerase holoenzyme complexes. We show that PolB1 repeatedly disengages from the DNA template, leaving PCNA123 behind. Interactions with a newly identified C-terminal PCNA-interacting peptide (PIP) motif on PolB1 specifically with PCNA2 are required for holoenzyme formation and continuous re-recruitment during synthesis. The extended tail-like structure of the C-terminal PIP motif in PolB1 is revealed alone and when bound to DNA using small-angle X-ray scattering allowing us to develop a model for the holoenzyme complex. This is the first detailed kinetic description of clamp loading and holoenzyme assembly in crenarchaea and has revealed a novel mode for dynamic processivity that occurs by a polymerase exchange mechanism. This work has important implications for processive DNA replication synthesis and also suggests a potential mechanism for polymerase switching to bypass lesions.
An improved process for development and testing of vena caval filters: The percutaneous steel Greenfield filter

Abstract Background. The purpose of this study was to develop a reduced profile stainless steel Greenfield filter with an over-the-wire delivery system and to compare its performance with the existing Food and Drug Administration-approved Greenfield filters. In addition, we wanted to standardize a system for evaluating filter prototypes. Methods. Percutaneous stainless steel filters with various hook configurations were evaluated for efficacy and safety in four in vitro modules designed to reproduce potential liabilities experimentally. Animal studies to assess thrombus capture and resolution, filter stability, migration, and hemodynamics were completed in 4 dogs and 38 sheep. Results. Mathematical modeling suggested that hook angle was the most relevant factor in improving resistance to migration. Prototypes that varied with respect to hook length and angle were evaluated in both the in vitro testing unit and in sheep. The stainless steel filter with two downward directed hooks provided clot capture comparable with the current Greenfield filter, maintenance of flow, and resistance to fatigue and corrosion while providing significant resistance to migration and penetration (p Conclusions. The percutaneous stainless steel Greenfield filter with the alternating hook design provides a reduced profile device that can be placed over a wire to improve positioning. The use of a standardized testing system reduced both the time and cost of bringing this new device to the market.
Survey to investigate pet ownership and attitudes to pet care in metropolitan Chicago dog and/or cat owners

The aims of this descriptive cross-sectional study were to investigate dog and cat acquisition and attitudes toward pet care among residents of the Chicago area (zip codes 60600-60660); to compare data obtained from owners of shelter-acquired pets with those of residents who acquired their pets from other sources; to compare data from dog owners with cat owners; and to compare pet health practices among the respondents of different zip code income groups. In-person surveys administered at five pet store locations collected data from 529 respondents, representing 582 dogs and 402 cats owned or continuously cared for in the past 3 years. Median household income data for represented zip codes was also obtained. Shelters were the most common source of cats (p<0.01) and were the second most common source of dogs. Cats were more likely to have been acquired as strays, while dogs were more likely to have been acquired from friends/family/neighbors, pet stores, breeders or rescue organizations and to be kept as outdoor-only pets (p<0.01). More cats were kept per household than dogs (dogs mean=1.32/household; cats mean=1.78/household; p<0.01). Pet owners were most commonly 'very likely' (5 on a 1-5/5 Likert scale) to administer all hypothetical treatments discussed, although cat owners were less likely to spend time training their pet (p=0.05). Cat owners were less likely to have taken their pet to a veterinarian for vaccinations or annual physical exams (p<0.01). Shelter-acquired cats were significantly more likely to have been taken by their owners to the veterinarian for annual exams (p=0.05) than cats obtained as strays. Owners of shelter-acquired pets were at least as willing as other respondents to administer hypothetical treatments and pay ≥$1000 for veterinary treatment. Respondents from site #3 lived in zip codes that had relatively lower median household incomes (p<0.01) and were less likely to spend ≥$1000 on their pets than those at the four other sites (p<0.01). Over 90% of pet owners from all acquisition categories expressed very high levels of attachment (≥8-10/10 on a Likert scale), except for owners of cats acquired as strays (84.9%) or from the 'other' category (75.0%). Survey respondents commonly acquired their pets from shelters and those who did were at least as willing to pay for and provide veterinary care as respondents who owned pets acquired from other sources. The data collected provides a snapshot of the attitudes of survey respondents in the Chicago area toward pet acquisition and care.
SU‐D‐213CD‐03: Live Video‐Guided Volumetric Tracking of Respiration Motion

Purpose: To introduce video surfaceimaging guidance in synchronization with 4D cone‐beam CT(CBCT) scans, and in combination with respiration‐ gated or target‐tracked dose delivery to treat mobile tumors, without collaterally damaging nearby critical structures. Methods: The approach uses the concept that the integral of balanced forces over the moving surfaces is directly proportional to the lung volume changes. The respiratory motions, representing the lung volume variations, were measured with the dynamic volume under the moving surfaces of the thorax and abdomen. Sequential surfaceimages on several patients and volunteers were acquired for the feasibility study. Respiratory motions were repeatedly measured on volunteers undertaking a quiet (normal) or a forced (deep) breath. The dynamic volume under the moving surfaces were robustly fitted with a linear trend and a trigonometric wave function that was compared with the fitted curves for target moving trajectories derived from forty 4D‐CBCT scans. Results: A large chest wall superior‐outward movement was the unique characteristic of a forced breath that had doubled the volume variations and elongated the respiration period from quiet breath of ∼4 seconds to >6 seconds. Under a quiet breath, target motion trajectories could be easily described by single sine functions that were consistent with dynamic surface volume modeling except for having different motion amplitudes. The accuracy in synchronization of the real‐time surface motion with respiration motion was within the measurement uncertainty of ∼2 mm. Conclusions: The analytical results with a hypothetical single sine platform allow us to accurately predict internal target motion with use of real‐time video images. Synchronization of dynamic volume with respiratory motion appears applicable for association of 4D medical imaging with 4D videoimaging.
Effects of enkephalin and morphine on rat globus pallidus neurons.

Abstract This study was conducted in order to compare the effects of microiontophoretically-applied morphine and met-enkephalin (met-ENK) on spontaneous and/or glutamate-evoked activity of single globus pallidus (GP) neurons in locally anesthetized, paralyzed rats. The predominant effect of both morphine and met-ENK was a depression of pallidal neuronal activity. While very few GP neurons were excited by morphine ( 2 89 ), a small population of neurons was excited by met-ENK ( 16 89 ). Both the inhibitory and excitatory responses produced by morphine and met-ENK could be attenuated by the microiontophoretic application of naloxone. It was also found that morphine and met-ENK did not affect all GP neurons in a similar manner. When applied to the same neurons, morphine elicited depression in 11 of 16 GP neurons which were excited by the application of met-ENK. In contrast, neither of two GP neurons excited by morphine in this study displayed inhibition upon application of met-ENK. Thus the microiontophoresis of morphine and met-ENK to single GP neurons has demonstrated that these two substances can produce opposite effects when applied to the same neurons and suggests that two functionally distinct types of opiate receptor may exist within rat GP, one which mediates the inhibitory effects of morphine and met-ENK, possibly the classical mu (μ) receptor, and one that is preferentially selective to met-ENK and which mediates the excitatory effects of opiates within this region, possibly the classical delta (δ) receptor.
Load and Length Regulation of Cardiac Energetics

Crossbridge cycling and consequent energy utilization during contraction are subject to physiologic regulation by load and length; the length effect on the sensitivity of troponin C to a given [Ca2+]i is an important, newly defined mechanism for this length regulation in cardiac muscle. Further, energy utilization persists throughout the cardiac contraction, demonstrably for isometric contractions initiated at optimal length, and is continuously modulated by length changes during variably loaded twitch contractions. The extent, rate, and time of load-induced length changes during myocardial contraction appear to be the primary variables affecting crossbridge activity and energetics. Load and length regulation of the properties of the heart represents a remarkably simple and direct biological response to the physiologic input and role in this organ. This mechanism is utilized by the heart in response to its dynamic loading environment both for long-term adaptation of cardiac mass to chronic load alterations, as discussed here recently (23), and for short-term adaptation of cardiac mechanics and energetics to instantaneous load alterations, as discussed above. It is probably no coincidence, given their central physiologic importance, that both of these most basic adaptive responses of the heart are simultaneously coming to be understood at the molecular level.
Neurobiology: New player in pain

Long-term pain must be accompanied by long-term alterations in neuronal signalling — but what causes the changes? In rats, immune-like spinal cells are implicated, together with a molecule new to the field of pain.
Transonic equivalence rule involving lift and shocks

For aerodynamic configurations with sufficiently high lift, the transonic equivalence rule must be modified for both linear and nonlinear lift contributions. The latter analyses show that for a thin wing having swept leading edges, with smooth lift and thickness distributions, the outer-flow region has a nonlinear structure determined principally by an equivalent line source and a line doublet. Apart from serving as a helpful guide to conceptual aerodynamic design, the equivalence rule and its extension can be useful in transonic wind-tunnel corrections, as well as studying sonic-boom impact at low-supersonic flight speed. We re-examine the inner and outer solutions and their matching and clarifie the accuracy levels of the theory with consideration of the higher order corrections and shock discontinuities in the outer flow.
Built environment instruments for walkability, bikeability, and recreation: Disability and universal design relevant?

BACKGROUND: Despite a plethora of instruments that measure the built environment with respect to its effect on potential physical activity, little is known about how relevant these instruments are for people with disabilities (PWDs). OBJECTIVE: This review comprises an in-depth review of instruments related to the built environment and physical activity, as well as an examination of such instruments to determine their applicability for PWDs. METHODS: In this paper, the term "built environment" refers to human-made structures (e.g., urban and rural design characteristics, recreational structures) that may facilitate or impede an individual's ability to be physically active. A content analysis was conducted on 95 instruments measuring walkability, bikeability, and recreation with respect to disability and universal design (UD) relevance. Instruments were also cataloged according to other dimensions, including psychometric properties, data collection modalities, and impact or use. RESULTS: Roughly one third of all instruments include some disability-specific items, and only a few UD principles are consistently demonstrated across all instruments. Psychometric information is available for approximately one half of the instruments. Most instruments use objective/audit methods of data collection, with less using subjective/perceived and Geographic Information System (GIS) methods. With respect to instrument impact/use, just over one half of the instruments have articles cited in the peer-reviewed literature. CONCLUSIONS: Recommendations for new and revised built environment instruments include more focus on specific disability populations, incorporation of all UD principles, as well as attention to psychometric quality and measurement specificity. Language: en
Polymer and biopolymer mediated self-assembly of gold nanoparticles.

Gold nanoparticle–polymer composites are versatile and diverse functional materials, with applications in optical, electronic and sensing devices. This tutorial review focuses on the use of polymers to control the assembly of gold nanoparticles. Examples of synthetic polymers and biopolymers are provided, as well as applications of the composite materials in sensing and memory devices.
One-Dimensional Hydrogen Bonded Polymers Based on C-Methyl-Calix[4]Resorcinarene and a Crystal Engineering Design Strategy

Abstract The X-ray crystal structures of co-crystals involving C -methylcalix[4]resorcinarene 1 and exo -bidentate pyridines 2 are reported. The components assemble such that the calixarenes adopt a C 2v conformation and the pyridines serve as bifunctional hydrogen bond acceptors. In the case of linear bridging units, 4,4′-bipyridine 2a and 4,4′-dipyridyl butanedioate 2b , the assembly process yields 1D wave-like hydrogen bonded polymers 4a and 4b , respectively, which include guest solvent molecules within 1 . In the case of an angular bridging unit, pyrimidine 2c , the assembly process yields a 1D chain 5 which exhibits self-inclusion. Thermal analysis of 4a demonstrates that the thermal behavior of these compounds is independent of the nature of the included guest, the solvent-included lattices being stable up to 190°C.
Redefining Humanitarian Intervention: The Historical Challenge of R2P

Through analyzing the various factors in R2P's genesis and expansion as an international norm, this article contends that the office of the UN Secretary-General has provided steady backing of R2P, allowing for its ongoing consideration within the UN bureaucracy and among member states. In this respect, R2P has been able to assert itself in a meaningful way, with member states compelled to revisit the central tenets of the norm within the General Assembly and special dialogues. The office of the Secretary-General has clearly interpreted R2P as a strong and effective reinforcement of Article 1 of the UN Charter and the overall UN mandate, using the norm to more strongly anchor existing UN principles and values.
Applications of symbol manipulation in theoretical physics

This paper surveys the applications of symbolic computation techniques to problems in theoretical physics. Particular emphasis is placed on applications in quantum electrodynamics where the most activity has occurred.
Multiorgan System Dysfunction in the Chylomicronemia Syndrome

Objective:To describe an extreme presentation of the chylomicronemia syndrome resulting in multiorgan system dysfunction.Patient:A 40-year-old African American male with no past medical history presented with multiorgan system dysfunction manifested by acute respiratory failure and acute kidney injury. He was noted to have very-high triglyceride levels (>5000 mg/dL) at admission.Interventions:An echocardiogram showed normal cardiac function. Amylase and lipase were normal. We confirmed the chylomicronemia syndrome with a triglyceride assay. The associated hyperviscosity was treated with plasmapheresis to reduce the plasma triglyceride level.Results:After 3 sessions of plasmapheresis, his triglyceride levels were significantly reduced, his oxygenation improved, and his acute kidney injury resolved. He was successfully extubated on day 7 of the intensive care unit stay. His diabetes and hypertriglyceridemia were newly diagnosed and drug therapy was instituted with home discharge on day 14.Conclusions:Severe...
HIGH NOON FOR THE RISING SUN

Hidden liabilities, now coming to light, are putting a different spin on Japan's reputation as an arrogant competitor and forcing a painful structural transformation.
Optic neuritis secondary to sphenoethmoiditis: surgical treatment.

Much has been written in literature regarding orbital complications of sinus disease, but recent literature on optic neuropathy secondary to sinusitis is scarce.l Optic neuritis is generally defined as an inflammatory neuropathy of the optic nerve usually associated with infectious, inflammatory, compressive, neoplastic, or vascular processes. Degeneration or demyelination of the optic nerve occurs and leads to vision loss. It has been reported that multiple sclerosis is the most common cause of optic neuritis, and that most patients with optic neuritis without infectious etiology will actually later develop multiple sclerosis.’ The occurrence of optic neuritis secondary to paranasal sinus disease is very rare. A definite etiology in up to 50% of patients can never be determined even after long term observation3 When optic neuritis is associated with clinical signs and symptoms of orbital inflammation, and evidence of sinus disease on radiologic examination, the decision for surgical sinus exploration and drainage is straightforward. On the other hand, the presentation of isolated optic neuritis with posterior sphenoethmoiditis can pose a diagnostic dilemma, and many clinicians discount this association entirely.’ Complete visual loss under these circumstances has been described;4 however, the pathophysiological explanation of such extension of inflammation and sinus infection to
Study of the effects of structural properties on the photoluminescence behavior of erbium thin films

Erbium oxide is a promising candidate for possible applications as Si-based light emitting devices in nanoscale electronics. The current report presents findings pertaining to the effects of the structural properties of erbium-based thin films on their photoluminescence characteristics. Erbium metal films were deposited on silicon via electron beam evaporation followed by thermal oxidation. The effects of post-deposition annealing conditions on the structural and optical properties of the thin films were examined using a variety of techniques, such as spectroscopic ellipsometry, xray diffraction, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was shown that the thin films evolved as function of thermal treatment from an Er-rich to an ErO-rich (700°C) to an Er2O3-rich (900°C) phase due to an increase in oxygen incorporation with higher oxidation temperatures. At temperatures ≥ 1000°C, out-diffusion of silicon from the substrate led to the formation of erbium monosilicate. Furthermore, the photoluminescence spectra of these various phases were measured, and the correlation between structural properties and luminescence characteristics will be discussed in this paper.
Tendon Rupture Associated With Simvastatin/Ezetimibe Therapy

A case of spontaneous biceps tendon rupture in a physician during therapy with the combination of simvastatin and ezetimibe (Vytorin) is reported. Rechallenge produced tendinopathy in the contralateral biceps tendon that abated with drug discontinuation. Tendon rupture generally occurs in injured tendons. Physiological repair of an injured tendon requires degradation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix through matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Statins are known to inhibit MMPs. It was hypothesized that statins may increase the risk of tendon rupture by altering MMP activity. In conclusion, statins may increase the risk of tendon rupture by altering MMP activity.
Post-heparin Lipolytic Activity and Blood Platelets

THERE have been several reports indicating a possible interrelationship between plasma lipoprotein lipase activity and blood platelets. Mitchell1 and Gardikas et al.2, using changes in the optical density of plasma as indicators of lipolytic activity, have reported an inhibition of lipoprotein lipase activity by platelets. The presence of platelets contributes materially to plasma turbidity, however, and the changes in optical density, particularly proportionate changes, may not be an accurate measure of lipase activity. Hollett and Nestel3 have shown that the clearing activity after administration of heparin, as measured by changes in optical density, and lipolytic activity, as determined by glycerol production, do not necessarily parallel each other. More recent results indicate that the lipoprotein lipase activity and “stickiness” of blood platelets are both altered in human cardiovascular disease4. We therefore decided to reinvestigate the relationship between lipoprotein lipase and blood platelets using heparin as an inducer and the release of free fatty acids (FFA) as a measure of the lipolytic activity.
Phenotypic plasticity and social environment

When individual organisms can differ phenotypically in ways that do not depend on the existence of genotypic differences among the individuals, they are said to be phenotypically plastic. Enhanced individual reproductive success in physically variable and/or uncertain environments is the conventional explanation for evolution of genetically based phenotypic plasticity. But this conventional wisdom seems inadequate in view of theoretical models demonstrating that individual ability to change sex, reproductive strategy, or location can evolve by natural selection in a stable, saturated, physically uniform habitat. I generalize these results to include the case of phenotypic plasticity. My models show that phenotypic plasticity can be evolutionarily stable in physically unvarying habitats as a consequence of social interactions. This approach to phenotypic plasticity challenges the accepted view that plasticity of phenotypes is non-adaptive or an adaptation to physical factors alone, and that natural selection cannot normally affect the mode of maintenance of phenotypic variation. The models may also offer additional perspectives on the evolution of sexual reproduction.
Input buffer requirements for round robin polling systems

Abstract A packet switched network that can be modeled as a round robin polling system with nonzero switchover times is considered. The input traffic is assumed to obey the (σ, ϱ) regularity conditions recently proposed by Cruz [ IEEE Trans. Inform. Theory 37 (1) (1991) 114–141]. These conditions are particularly applicable to traffic from open loop flow control mechanisms, such as the leaky bucket . For partially gated service, upper and lower bounds are provided for buffer requirements to insure no data loss. The bounds are extended to gated and exhaustive service and are modified to provide bounds on guaranteed network delays. Using the bounds, it is demonstrated that partially gated service requires nearly minimal buffering when incoming traffic approaches the capacity of the network. It is also demonstrated that open loop flow control can improve the buffer requirements and guaranteed delays of the network significantly.
Effect of Strain Amplitude And Frequency On Compressional And Shear Wave Velocities And Amplitudes In Sandstones

A series of experiments have been carried out on sandstone samples with wide range of porosities and permeabilities in order to investigate the influence of strain amplitude and frequency on compressional and shear velocities and attenuation of sedimentary granular rocks. Low frequency velocity data was obtained from uniaxial stress cycling measurements that were conducted at a frequency of Hz at different levels of strain amplitude from 1 to Attenuation information was obtained at Hz from the stressstrain hysteresis observed in the cycling measurements. Compressional velocity data was collected at various stresses using four different transducer/receiver sets with frequencies 50 KHz, 100 KHz, 180 KHz and 1 MHz. The strain amplitudes for all four types of ultrasonic measurements are in the range of Shear velocities were simultaneously recorded at 1 MHz. Compressional wave amplitude data were collected at a few selected stresses in order to obtain attenuation at ultrasonic frequencies. Velocities calculated from the static moduli increase as average stress is increased. The dry velocities are very sensitive to strain amplitude. As strain amplitude increases, both compressional and shear velocities decrease. When the velocities calculated from the static moduli (102 Hz) are plotted together with the velocities measured using the 50 KHz, 100 KHz, 180 KHz and 1 MHz transducers, velocity dispersion is clearly observed. However, differences between static velocities and velocities measured from 50 KHz to 1 MHz can not be explained on the basis of the frequency dependence alone. Differences between the strain amplitudes of the measurement techniques is believed to be one of the major causes of dispersion observed in the dry rocks used in this study.
IS HISPANIC RACE AN IMPORTANT PREDICTOR OF TREATMENT FAILURE FOLLOWING RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY FOR PROSTATE CANCER

ABSTRACTPurpose:: Hispanic-Americans are the fastest growing minority group in the United States. Many studies have compared prostate cancer treatment outcomes between black and white men, but few such studies have been done with Hispanic men. We compared clinical and pathological features as well as the treatment failure rate of radical prostatectomy in contemporaneously treated groups of Hispanic and white men with prostate cancer.Materials and Methods:: Between 1995 and 2002, 136 Hispanic men and 315 white men underwent radical prostatectomy. Treatment failure was defined as having a prostate specific antigen (PSA) of 0.2 or greater more than 8 weeks after surgery or receiving any adjuvant therapy. Known predictors of failure and race were evaluated for their ability to predict treatment failure.Results:: Median followup was 32 months for Hispanic and 36 months for white patients. Hispanic men were older, had a higher percentage of abnormal rectal examinations, Gleason 7 tumors and preoperative PSA lev...
Change Detection in Laser-Scanned Data of Industrial Sites

As laser scanners become widely used in 3D data acquisition of industrial sites, one challenging problem emerges: given two data of the same site scanned/modeled at different times, how can we tell the difference between the two? In this paper, we formulate this problem as the 3D change detection problem, and propose a novel method for detecting object-level changes. In general, we notice that the changes can be viewed as the inconsistency between the global alignment and the local alignment. Therefore, we propose a change detection framework that comprises global alignment, local object detection and a novel change detection method. Specifically, we propose a series of change evaluation functions for pair wise change inference, based on which we formulate the many-to-many object change correlation problem as the weighted bipartite matching problem which could be solved efficiently. Finally, we demonstrate the feasibility of our approach through experiments on both synthetic and real industrial datasets.
Effect of chemisorbed oxygen on char reactivity

Many workers have demonstrated that a substantial amount of oxygen can be chemisorbed to form oxide layers on carbon surfaces in the course of chemical oxidation reactions (Laine et al., 1963; Walker et al., 1965; Puri, 1970). This communication reports results of a set of experiments conducted to explore how such deposited oxygen affects the intrinsic reactivity and the pore enlargement in a series of bituminous chars. The five char samples used in this study were prepared from a single coal under various pyrolysis conditions, following the procedures set forth by Su and Perlmutter (1984) and labeled as samples B to F in the earlier work. Air oxidation of each sample was carried out at 673 K. At desired conversion levels (15, 30, 45, 60 and 75%), reaction was terminated within 1 min by purging nitrogen through the TGA reaction chamber. After 10 min without any detectable further weight loss at 673 K, the temperature of the nitrogen purge was rapidly raised to 1,223 K within 3 min and held at that temperature for 10 min. Substantial weight loss was observed during this heat treatment, most of it occurring before the temperature reached 1,173 K. Greater weight loss was observedmore » at greater conversion levels for all the chars tested.« less
Abstract 3387: Characterization of the role of the type 2C phosphatase Ppm1d (Wip1) in metastasis

Ppm1d (Wip1) is a member of the magnesium-dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase family, and is considered to be an oncogene. Previous work from our lab showed that Ppm1d null mice were remarkably more resistant to oncogene driven mammary tumorigenesis. In human tumors, PPM1D amplification and overexpression are observed in multiple tumor types. In addition PPM1D amplification has often been associated with poorer prognosis than the counterpart with normal PPM1D level. Overexpression of Ppm1d in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) and in transgenic mice showed enhanced cell transformation and accelerated cancer progress. However it remains to be determined whether Ppm1d facilitates the metastasis processes. In order to address this question our lab generated a cross strain of Wip1 null and Grm1 trangenic mice. Grm1 Tg is a well-characterized mouse model for melanoma and the mice with the Grm1 transgene develop metastasis of melanoma with high frequency. Ppm1d deficiency dramatically reduced the metastasis in Grm1 Tg mice. We observed less migration efficiency in the melanoma cells with Ppm1d gene knock-down. We are investigating the known Ppm1d downstream pathways and also other signaling events to determine the potential mechanism(s). We are also extending the study to another tumor type system to determine if the pro-metastatic effect of Ppm1d is melanoma specific or not. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3387.
Optical and transport properties of a-Si:H,F/a-Si,Ge:H,F superlattices

Abstract We present dark conductivities and photoconductivities of compositional superlattices (SL) with a-Si:H,F barrier and a-Si,Ge:H,F well layers measured parallel and perpendicular to the plane of the layers. The optical absorption spectra, photogenerated hole collection and electron drift data in these structures are also reported. The optical gaps E opt of the superlattices with high germanium concentration in the well are determined by the well layer's band gap. Quantum confinement is observed for narrow wells. The electronic transport properties of the superlattices perpendicular to the SL planes result from an interplay of two phenomena that are absent from bulk materials: the presence of barriers which the carriers can cross by either tunneling through or being thermally emitted over, and the quantum and/or structural effects of sandwiching a very thin layer (20 – 50 A) of alloy between two a-Si barrier layers. The hole (μτ) p of the superlattices, measured by photocurrent collection, is approximately independent of E opt . The electron time-of-flight (μτ) n of the superlattices decreases with E opt and is determined primarily by thermal emission over the a-Si:H,F barriers.
Image compression based on task-specific information

Compression is a key component in imaging systems hat have limited power, bandwidth, or other resources. In many applications, images are acquired to support a specific task such as target detection or classification. However, standard image compression techniques such as JPEG or JPEG2000 (J2K) are often designed to maximize image quality as measured by conventional quality metrics such as mean-squared error (MSE) or Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR). This mismatch between image quality metrics and ask performance motivates our investigation of image compression using a task-specific metric designed for the designated tasks. Given the selected target detection task, we first propose a metric based on conditional class entropy. The proposed metric is then incorporated into a J2K encoder to create compressed codestreams ha are fully compliant with the J2K standard. Experimental results illustrate that the decompressed images obtained using he proposed encoder greatly improve performance in detection/classification tasks over images encoded using a conventional J2K encoder.
A Review of the Manuals for BMDP and SPSS

Abstract Objectives for the review of a user guide of a statistical computing package are presented. Sixteen major categories are used to compare the capabilities described in the BMDP and SPSS guides. This is followed by additional specific comments on each package and its guide. It is hoped this review will stimulate interest in developing standards for user guides, in reviewing such guides, in evaluating statistical computing capabilities, and in improving these capabilities. It is also hoped this paper will contribute to the understanding of these two fine statistical packages.
Effectiveness of Ketone Level on Seizure Control

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: Determine the effect of the level of ketosis on seizure control The ketogenic diet is one of the oldest forms of treatment for seizure control. The diet is designed to maintain ketosis which helps to reduce seizure activity and has improved seizure control in 50–70% of children in past research studies. Limited research has been conducted to determine if the level of ketosis has any effect on seizure control. A retrospective study involving 51 patients (29 male, 22 female) was conducted to determine what effect urine and serum ketone levels have on seizure control and if there is a correlation between urine and serum ketone levels. Age of participants ranged from 2–18 years (median age: 6 years). In this study, 82% (42) of the individuals maintained ketone levels between 80–160mg/dl; 43% (18) were seizure free, 50% (21) had reduced seizures and 7% (3) showed no change in seizure control. For the 16% (8) of the study participants who maintained ketone levels of 40–80mg/dL; one was seizure free, 5 had reduced seizures and 2 showed no change in seizure control. Two percent (1) maintained only trace amounts of ketones, however the seizures were decreased. B -hydroxybutyrate (BHB) was available for 31% (16) of the individuals in this study. BHB is one of three serum ketone bodies. Because of its greater concentration and stability relative to acetoacetate and acetone, BHB may become a more reliable guide in monitoring the effect of the diet. BHB > 1.0 resulted in a urine ketone level > 40mg/dL. A rise in BHB values did not reflect a direct correlation with a rise in urine ketone levels. Trace ketone levels were seen when BHB was between 0–1. The results of this study indicate that high ketone levels will benefit patients on the ketogenic diet through eliminating or reducing seizures when a trained registered dietitian supervises this diet to ensure optimal ketone levels. Further studies are necessary to identify the appropriate urine and BHB levels needed for maximum success on the ketogenic diet as well as to determine what correlation exists between urine and blood ketone levels.
Selecting fixed-charge groups for electron-based peptide dissociations

Abstract Fixed-charge groups based on pyridiniummethylcarboxamide moieties are analyzed by electronic structure theory calculations at combined B3LYP-PMP2 and CCSD(T) levels of theory to establish the ion recombination energies and thermodynamic and kinetic stability of radicals after electron capture. The fixed-charge pyridinium groups carry electron-donating and electron-withdrawing substituents and have higher recombination energies than protonated peptides, as modeled for (GK + H)+ and (GR + H)+. The pyridinium and peptide radicals formed by electron attachment have overlapping manifolds of electronic states that may allow for unidirectional or reversible intramolecular electron transfer in charge-tagged peptides. The pyridinium groups have moderate kinetic stabilities toward dissociation by N–CH2 bond cleavage after electron attachment. Alkylammonium ions coordinated to 18-crown-6-ether show extremely low recombination energies and may represent a special kind of charge tags. Electron attachment to [CH3NH3…18-crown-6-ether]+ complex forms a dipolar species resembling an organic electride, in which the ionic alkylammonium core is surrounded by a crown-solvated electron.
Photoswitchable Oligonucleotide-Modified Gold Nanoparticles: Controlling Hybridization Stringency with Photon Dose

We describe a new class of stimulus-responsive DNA-functionalized gold nanoparticles that incorporate azobenzene-modified oligonucleotides. Beyond the classic directed assembly and sensing behaviors associated with oligonucleotide-modified nanoparticles, these particles also exhibit reversible photoswitching of their assembly behavior. Exposure to UV light induces a trans-cis isomerization of the azobenzene which destabilizes the DNA duplex, resulting in dissociation of the nanoparticle assemblies. The isomerization is reversible upon exposure to blue light, resulting in rehybridization and reassembly of the DNA-linked nanoparticle clusters. We show that perfectly complementary and partially mismatched strands exhibit clearly distinguishable photoinduced melting properties, and we demonstrate that photon dose can thus be used in place of temperature or ionic strength to control hybridization stringency with the ability to discriminate single-base mismatches.
Pulsed Radiation From A Parabolic Reflector

We consider a transient point dipole current turned on at time zero, with the time-derivative being discontinuous at zero. This point current source generates an electromagnetic field incident on a perfectly conducting smooth surface having a boundary. Surface current is induced in the conductor, producing a scattered field. The objective is to analyze the leading edge of the scattered field. Cases are shown in which the edge singularity is strong enough to generate an electromagnetic missile. This report includes a rigorous formulation of the problem in terms of Maxwell's equations and a review of the incident and scattered wave fronts associated with these equations. These fronts are used to extract information about the leading edge of the scattered field. A "tangent-plane" approximation is studied and applied to a case of a bounded paraboloidal reflector illuminated by a transient point dipole. This results in a missile with a radiated energy den-sity that drops off as slowly as the inverse logarithm of the distance. Steps toward the establishment of bounds on the error of the approximation are described.
High-dose epidural infusion of opioids for cancer pain: Cost issues

The safety and efficacy of intraspinal opioids as therapy for selected patients with cancer pain are well-established. The choice of the appropriate drug is influenced by many variables that are to date incompletely elucidated. The cost of therapy is an increasingly important component of decision-making. This report describes the management of a patient who achieved excellent pain control with the administration of epidural sufentanil and bupivacaine. Daily Average Wholesale Price for sufentanil was, however, $698. Until the data comparing the efficacy of different epidurally administered opioids in the treatment of cancer pain are available, we suggest that treatment with more costly opioids be reserved for patients for whom analgesia cannot be achieved after maximizing epidural morphine analgesia with aggressive side-effect management.
Preparation and colorimetric analysis of L-canavaninosuccinic acid.

Abstract Improved procedures for the preparation and colorimetric assay of l -canavaninosuccinic acid, a structural analog of l -argininosuccinic acid, are presented.
The virtual node layer: a programming abstraction for wireless sensor networks

The Virtual Node Layer (VNLayer) programming abstraction provides programmable, predictable automata--virtual nodes--emulated by the low-level network nodes. This simplifies the design and rigorous analysis of applications for the wireless sensor network setting, as the layer can mask much of the uncertainty of the underlying components. In this paper, we define a general VNLayer architecture, and then use this framework to design a practical VNLayer implementation, optimized for real-world use. We then discuss our experience deploying this implementation on a testbed of hand-held computers, and in a custom-built packet-level simulator, and present a sample application--a virtual traffic light--to highlight the power and utility of our abstraction. We conclude with a survey of additional applications that are well-suited to this setting.
The tetrad effect: The thiocyanate complex stability constants of some trivalent actinides☆

Abstract A solvent extraction technique, using bis(2-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid as the extractant, was employed to examine the formation of Am(III), Cm(III), Bk(III), Cf(III), and Es(III) thiocyanate complexes in a NaSCNNaClO 4 medium at ionic strength I = 1·0 M and pH = 2·00. Mathematical analysis of the data led to the conclusion that the mono-, di-, and trithiocyanate species exist in the thiocyanate concentration range studied in this work. Values of the overall stability constants β 1 , β 2 , and β 3 were calculated. As the atomic number of the actinides increased, the β 1 values exhibited a gradual increase in stability, which is consistent with the expected effect on complex stability due to the actinide contraction. The β 2 values decreased rapidly across the series from americium to einsteinium, with a concomitant increase in β 3 . In addition, there was evidence of the tetrad effect in the β 3 values, and this led to the tentative conclusion that the Act(SCN) 3 (where Act = Am, Cm, Bk, Cf, and Es) complexes are of the inner-sphere type. The thermodynamic parameters of the Am(III) thiocyanate complexes were calculated from temperature dependence measurements. The enthalpy and entropy changes were used to aid in the distinction between inner-sphere and outer-sphere complex formation.