cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An ensemble clinical and MR-image deep learning model predicts 8-year knee pain trajectory: Data from the osteoarthritis initiative

Abstract Objective We applied data-driven feature learning to classify the presence and 8-years incidence of knee pain from MRI. Design We analyzed the data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative. Self-reported pain scores from knees with chronic pain were used to generate binary labels for the pain presence. A 3D DenseNet was then trained to classify the presence of pain from sagittal intermediate-weighted 2D turbo spin-echo fat suppression MRI. Next, functional principal component analysis (FPCA) was performed to model the temporal patterns of pain incidence among non-symptomatic knees at baseline. Bayesian Gaussian mixture models was fitted to the FPCA scores to identify clusters of pain trajectories. Cluster membership were used as labels and learned by the 3D DenseNet from MRI only and MRI combined with clinical features. Results The pain presence and pain incidence prediction models included 14,606 and 3,828 samples, respectively. The pain presence classification model achieved an AUC of 0.898 (95%CI: 0.882-0.914). We identified two distinct subtypes of the temporal progression of pain score: stable (87%) and worsening group (13%). Our model showed high performance in subtype classification using both imaging and clinical features (AUC: 0.794 [95%CI: 0.761-0.823]). Conclusion Our data-driven approach showed high performance in extracting MRI features associated with chronic knee pain presence and incident knee pain. Our results provide a basis for a more comprehensive quantitative analysis of MRI to uncover latent relationships between OA imaging and knee pain. Further studies are needed to improve our understanding of the extracted features.
Therapeutic Strategies in Cushing’s Disease

Endogenous Cushing’s syndrome (spontaneous hypercortisolism) is a rare condition. Its general incidence is 2–5 new cases per million of population per year, with a female to male preponderance of 9 to 1, and approximately 10% of the cases occurring during childhood and adolescence. The clinical manifestations of the syndrome are due to glucocorticoid excess frequently combined with mineralocorticoid and/ or adrenal androgen excess. One of the earliest signs in almost all patients with Cushing’s syndrome is obesity, mostly truncal, characterized by facial rounding and plethora and associated with the entire spectrum of the dysmetabolic syndrome (insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, carbohydrate intolerance and/ or diabetes mellitus type II) and its cardiovascular complications. It is important to suspect the diagnosis, since, in many cases, the signs and symptoms are subtle, and, it may take several months or years for the full clinical picture to develop. The diagnostic evaluation of the syndrome is complicated and still challenges the skills of physicians. Correct differential diagnosis, which is achieved by biochemical, imaging and catheterization studies, usually leads to successful treatment and cure. Early diagnosis is significant for prevention of the chronic deleterious effects of hypercortisolism.
Nosotras parimos ¿Nosotras decidimos en la atención sanitaria embarazo, parto y puerperio? (Maribel Blázquez Rodríguez)

Nosotras Parimos ?Nosotras decidimos en la atencion sanitaria al embarazo, parto y puerperio?, es la publicacion de la investigacion que Maria Isabel Blazquez Rodriguez realizo para su tesis doctoral1, la cual fue premiada con el Premio de Investigacion Victoria Kent que convoca el Seminario de Estudios Interdisciplinarios de la Mujer de la Universidad de Malaga, en su edicion de 2009.
A low-cost class-E power amplifier with sine-wave drive

We present a 400 W class-E amplifier for industrial applications. The transistor is the International Rectifier IRFP450LC power MOSFET. The amplifier operates at 13.56 MHz and uses a drive level of 12 W to attain a drain efficiency of 86% and an overall efficiency of 84%. All harmonics are more than 40 dB below the carrier.
The Modern Utility of Ford's Colonial Map of Barbados, 1674

Richard Ford's 1674 map of colonial Barbados was one of the first economic maps of the British Empire, and, as such, plays a strong role in cartographic history. Ford's map contributes insights into further layers of colonial history, especially when combined in a geographic information system (GIS) with data from the Barbados Census of 1679 and modern elevation data. Settlement patterns were examined using the data of sugar mills from Ford's map with elevation and aspect information to determine whether there was a preference for building location. Further issues of artistic and realistic constraints on mapping accuracy were also examined. The accuracy of Ford's map comes into question when it is compared with the census of 1679. Ford's map claims to show every plantation on the island, but this is not verified by the census, which lists five times the number of planters. This deeper examination of the underutilized data from a printed map not only assesses the legitimacy of the map, both in terms of acc...
AFLP analysis of genetic diversity within a jackfruit germplasm collection

Twenty-six jackfruit accessions, one interspecific hybrid, champedak, and one breadfruit accession were analyzed using amplified fragment length polymorphic (AFLP) markers to determine the degree of genetic diversity within the Fairchild Tropical Garden (FTG) germplasm collection. Of the 30 primer pairs evaluated, 12 were identified for collection screening based on number and quality of polymorphic fragments. A total of 187 AFLP markers were scored using the 12 primer pairs, 92 (49.2%) being polymorphic. All accessions could be uniquely identified using the 12 primer pairs. Among the jackfruit accessions, similarity coefficients ranged from 0.567 to 0.950; the accessions also shared a large number of monomorphic fragments (54.9%). Cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) grouped all of the jackfruit accessions with south-east Asian origins into one major cluster with little bootstrap support for groupings within the cluster. The Indian accessions were grouped in a different cluster, as did the hybrid and the breadfruit accession. The AFLP marker based analysis indicates that limited genetic diversity exists within this collection. These observations are in agreement with the phenotypic evaluation and suggest that new accessions be obtained from the center of origin for the species.
Cell Differentiation and Its Control in the Vertebrate Epidermis

SYNOPSIS Patterns of cell differentiation in the general body epidermis of veitebrates vary from class to class and within certain classes In fish,a multiplicity of non keratinued differentiated cells are found overthe body Then presence is readily explained on the basis each arising from a distinctive precursor in the germinal layer In amphibians and mammals all cells foim alpha keratin In birds and some reptiles beta keratin is found over some parts ofthe body and alpha keratin is found elsewhere These regional differences are probably based on certain spicific dermal influences In the epidermis of squamate reptiles, the fate of cells that have left thegerminal layei alternates between synthesis of ben oi alpha keratin in a manner unique among the vertebrates Theie is evidence to suggest that feedback loops within the epidermis coupled to specific patterns of cell behavior in the geiminal layer aie important in legulating the lemaikable switch in piotein synthetic pathways
Correlation between crack growth rate and fracture mode transitions in low density polyethylene

Abstract : Fatigue crack propagation rates in low-density polyethylene as a function of stress intensity factor were found to exhibit a discontinuity in the range Delta K = 0.4-0.6 MPa Zeta m. Within this range the FCP rate decreased with increasing Delta K. Fractographic examination revealed significant differences in the appearance of the fracture surfaces corresponding to values of Delta K below and above the transition range. While the reason for this behavior is not clear, the nucleation and growth of voids was involved throughout-the voids being smaller at low values of Delta K than at higher values. (Author)
The kinetics of Fe(II) complexation by Ferrozine in seawater

Abstract The kinetics of Fe(II) complexation by Ferrozine (FZ), the disodium salt of 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-bis(4-phenylsulfonic acid)-1,2,4-triazine, in seawater was studied over a range of pH, salinity and temperature, and the following rate equation was observed: − d[Fe(II) d t =k c [ Fe (II)][ FZ ] 3 The overall complexation rate constant, kc, was determined from pH 6.0 to 8.4 (at S = 36‰ and T = 24°C), for S = 0–36‰ (at 24°C and pH 7.0) and for T = 15–32°C (at S = 36‰ and pH 7.0). The results have been fitted to an equation of the form log k c = log k c −[ 1.064I 1 2 (1+I 1 2 )] +0.1106I where log K O c =16.184−[ 792.2 T( K ) ] (T (K) = 273.15 + T (°C)) at pH 7.0 with a standard deviation of 0.013. The energy of activation for the overall rate constant is 15.2 ± 0.6 kJ mol−1. A possible mechanism of complexation is proposed. The slight decrease in kc with increasing pH can be explained by the decrease in the percentage in free Fe2+ as a result of hydrolysis of Fe(II) with increasing pH. The change in ionic strength is the major component causing the decrease of kc with increasing salinity. The oxidation rate constant of Fe(II) above pH 8 has been determined simultaneously with the complexation rate constant. This provides an approach to determine the Fe(II) oxidation rate in natural waters, especially at high pH. There is competition between the complexation and oxidation of Fe(II) during the formation and dissociation of the Fe(II)(FZ)3 complex. The dissociation rate constant was (2.16 ± 0.02) × 10−3 min−1 at S = 36‰ , pH 8.1 and T = 24°C. This kinetic study leads to an improved understanding of Fe(II) analysis based on the Fe(II)(FZ)3 complex.
Testing Goodness of Fit for the Poisson Assumption When Observations are Not Identically Distributed

Abstract Tests for detecting negative binomial departures from a Poisson model are studied for the one-way-layout and regression-through-the-origin cases. Approximations to the null and alternative distributions of these test statistics are presented. Locally optimal tests and tests suggested in the literature are compared in terms of asymptotic relative efficiency. Small sample comparisons are included.
Rationalization of errors from two techniques measuring the velocity of ultrasound in liquids

Abstract Two techniques for measuring the velocity of ultrasound in liquids are described, with reference to their inherent systematic errors. One technique is absolute, the other relative. Using the different functional forms of the systematic errors, a data transformation analysis is employed to rationalize and consequently reduce them. The velocity in water is assumed, and results are presented for the velocity of ultrasound in n-heptane, ethanol, n-hexadecane, 1M, 2M and 4M aqueous solutions of sodium chloride.
Exchangeable Soil Calcium May Not Reliably Predict In-season Calcium Requirements for Enhancing Potato Tuber Calcium Concentration

Previous research has provided evidence that Ca is transported to the tuber along with water via the roots on stolons and tubers. Several studies have documented that in-season Ca application can increase tuber Ca concentration and reduce storage rot and internal defects such as hollow heart, brown center, and internal brown spot. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between preplant soil test Ca levels and the tuber Ca concentration. Recommendation for Ca application in potato production guides are not necessarily geared towards tubers unique nutritional needs. In general, for potato production, Ca applications are recommended only if pre-plant soil exchangeable Ca is below 300 mg kg−1. Studies were conducted in two soil types, namely loamy sand (Hancock location) and silt loam (Antigo location). The pre-plant soil Ca for the loamy sand tested at 285–563 mg kg−1 and the silt loam tested at 530–1,340 mg kg−1 of exchangeable Ca. Five cultivars were grown with or without in-season Ca applications of 168 kg ha−1. At Hancock, 30 separate trials were conducted between the years 1999–2006, whereas at Antigo, 15 separate trials were conducted between the years 1995–1998. The tuber Ca concentration increased in 38 of the 45 total trials carried out in both locations. This increase in tuber Ca concentration varied among cultivars and seasons but had no relationship with soil Ca. This increase in tuber CA concentration occurred even when pre-season exchangeable Ca tested at over 1,000 mg kg−1. These results suggest that testing for exchangeable Ca in these soils is not a good (or reliable) predictor of tuber Ca needs.
Semiquantitative Measurement of Cytomegalovirus DNA in Lung and Heart-Lung Transplant Patients by in Vitro DNA Amplification

We report the cases of two lung transplant recipients (one heart-lung and one single lung) who eventually developed cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonitis after documentation of increasing CMV DNA titers in sequential bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. To our knowledge, this is the first report that semiquantitation of PCR-amplified DNA can detect an increase in CMV DNA titer in BAL specimens prior to the onset of clinical symptoms or detection of infection by traditional techniques in lung transplant patients. The results obtained in these two cases suggest that DNA titer measurement on sequential BAL samples may differentiate latency from active viral replication and, thus, provide an opportunity for clinical intervention before the development of overt clinical symptoms.
Capacitive sensing testability in complex memory devices

Printed circuit boards (PCB) with soldered-down arrays of advanced memory devices are growing more common and present a class of difficult testing problems to PCB manufacturing. With the large memory capacities now available, memory expansion connectors are less necessary, and many products have reduced form factors (thinness) that means upright memory DIMM arrays are being phased out. When memory devices are soldered down, they become part of the board test problem, where in the past it was only necessary to test the empty sockets that would later be populated with memory. This paper discusses a Design-for-Test (DFT) technology that can be easily applied to memory devices which is independent of the silicon, and only impacts the design of the package the memory is placed within. This means DFT can be retrofitted to memories already in production without a costly silicon design change.
Emerging Antidementia Drugs: A Preliminary Ethical View

What ethical concerns regarding the application of new antidementia compounds are pertinent to the best interests of patients with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers? Based on collected preliminary anecdotal accounts, these concerns are important and should be considered carefully by clinicians, researchers, and families.
Full dynamic screening calculation of hot electron scattering rates in multicomponent semiconductor plasmas

Abstract The total scattering rate of a single energetic electron in the conduction band of GaAs in the presence of a non-equilibrium electron-hole plasma is calculated using different approximations for the screening effects of the free carriers. The best agreement with recent experimental results is obtained when full dynamic screening is taken account of (exactly within the random phase approximation), including the lattice polarizability.
Low-noise magnetic sensing for marine munitions characterization

Because the recovery of underwater munitions is many times more expensive than recovering the same items on dry land, there is a continuing need to advance marine geophysical characterization methods. To efficiently and reliably conduct surveying in marine environments, low-noise geophysical sensors are being configured to operate close to the sea bottom. We describe systems that are deployed from surface vessels via rigid or flexible tow cables or mounted directly to submersible platforms such as unmanned underwater vehicles. Development and testing of a towed configuration has led to a 4 meter wide hydrodynamically stable tow wing with an instrumented top-side assembly mounted on the stern of a surface survey vessel. An integrated positioning system combined with an instrumented cable management system, vessel and wing attitude and wing depth measurements to provide sub-meter positional accuracy in up to 25 meter water depths and within 1 to 2 meters of the seafloor. We present the results of data collected during an instrument validation survey over a series of targets emplaced at measured locations. Performance of the system was validated through analyses of data collected at varying speeds, headings, and height above the seafloor. Implementation of the system during live-site operations has demonstrated its capability to survey hundreds of acres of marine or lacustrine environment. Unique deployment concepts that utilize new miniaturized and very low noise sensors show promise for expanding the applicability of magnetic sensing at marine sites.
Recombination-deletion between homologous cassettes in retrovirus is suppressed via a strategy of degenerate codon substitution.

Transduction and expression procedures in gene therapy protocols may optimally transfer more than a single gene to correct a defect and/or transmit new functions to recipient cells or organisms. This may be accomplished by transduction with two (or more) vectors, or, more efficiently, in a single vector. Occasionally, it may be useful to coexpress homologous genes or chimeric proteins with regions of shared homology. Retroviridae include the dominant vector systems for gene transfer (e.g., gamma-retro and lentiviruses) and are capable of such multigene expression. However, these same viruses are known for efficient recombination–deletion when domains are duplicated within the viral genome. This problem can be averted by resorting to two-vector strategies (two-chain two-vector), but at a penalty to cost, convenience, and efficiency. Employing a chimeric antigen receptor system as an example, we confirm that coexpression of two genes with homologous domains in a single gamma-retroviral vector (two-chain single-vector) leads to recombination–deletion between repeated sequences, excising the equivalent of one of the chimeric antigen receptors. Here, we show that a degenerate codon substitution strategy in the two-chain single-vector format efficiently suppressed intravector deletional loss with rescue of balanced gene coexpression by minimizing sequence homology between repeated domains and preserving the final protein sequence.
The Family Context of Italian Infant Care.

This descriptive study of Italian infant care is based on a year‐long investigation of 20 infants and their families in a small town one hour north of Rome, Italy. Foci of the study included infant social interactions as observed in the home environment, parental attitudes regarding child care and development, and an ethnographic study of family life within the community. Results revealed a high level of social density in infant care environments, a homogeneity of expectations and strategies of parenting, and an emphasis on physical well‐being.
Approximating solutions to linear and nonlinear differential equations by the method of maximum entropy

A technique to approximate the solution to linear and nonlinear boundary value problems is developed and numerical examples are presented. The technique is based on the method of maximum entropy with moments of the differential equation used as constraints. The method is very general and has the advantage that additional information can be fed into the solution, such as the function's domain or the positivity or negativity of the solution. The technique should find applications in approximating solutions to equations which may or may not contain noise and as an alternative to finite difference and Fourier series solutions and may have applications to large scale simulations.
Biological interactions maintain the boundaries between kelp forests and urchin barrens in the Aleutian Archipelago

This study used benthic surveys and manipulative experiments to examine (1) if boundaries between kelp forests and urchin barrens exist at multiple locations spanning the Aleutian Archipelago, (2) if these boundaries are spatially stable, and (3) how changes in algal density within the kelp forests influence the ability of urchins to invade them. Our results demonstrate that sharply punctuated kelp forest-urchin barren boundaries occur throughout the Archipelago, and they are spatially stable for at least 2 years. Further, when all macroalgae were experimentally removed from the kelp forest side of the boundaries, urchins rapidly moved into these clearings and excluded macroalgae for up to 2 years. However, these movements were not observed where 75% or less of the macroalgae was removed (leaving 25% or more in place), suggesting that even low macroalgal abundances can prevent urchins from invading the kelp forests. Further, urchin densities were negatively related to kelp density, again indicating that kelp can reduce urchin densities. While the ability of urchins to overgraze kelp forests is widely known, our results indicate that kelp can inhibit urchins, that these inhibitory influences are a widely recurrent phenomenon, and that this interaction is important to maintaining kelp forests across the Aleutians.
Reflex Tachycardia Due to Temporary Coronary Occlusion in the Conscious Dog

Reflex increases in heart rate which occurred during 1-minute occlusions of the left circumflex coronary artery were studied in conscious dogs. The results indicated that occlusion produced tachycardia (latency to onset 8.5 seconds) preceded by a rise in left atrial pressure (7.2 seconds) and followed by a small fall in arterial pressure (19.5 seconds). Bilateral baroreceptor denervation indicated that the onset of the changes in heart rate could not be accounted for by subtle baroreceptor sensitivity, although the peak response was much reduced (from 34.0 beats/min to 17.5 beats/min), indicating that the magnitude of the response did depend on intact baroreceptors. Beta-receptor blockade with propranolol or cardiac sympathectomy reduced the peak response from 34.0 beats/min to 16.1 beats/min or 12.2 beats/min, respectively. Vagal blockade with atropine reduced the response to 5.3 beats/min, indicating that the remainder of the response was carried in the vagus. Responses were much reduced after barorecep...
The Road to Disunion: Volume II, Secessionists Triumphant, 1854–1861 – By William W. Freehling

This book completes the author's massive two‐volume opus on the South's path to the Civil War, begun fifteen years earlier with The Road to Disunion: Volume I, Secessionists at Bay, 1776–1854. No m...
Hardware or Wetware: What Are the Possible Interactions of Pedagogy and Technology in the Classroom?.

Student response systems have received much attention over the past few years. This easy-to-use technology has been marketed as a great way to enhance the student experience in the classroom throug...
Fractals and the Universe.

Many examples of fractal geometry are seen in the field of Astronomy, from nearby objects such as our Sun, to phenomena at intermediate length scales in our Galaxy such as the distribution of masers. This paper will give many examples of various length scales and finally concentrates on the largest scales which can be probed in our universe, with analyses of locations of galaxies. It has been known for some twenty years that the distribution of galaxies on small scales is fractal. This is seen in analyses which indicate that both galaxies and their clusters are power law correlated (a signature of fractal behavior). At larger length scales the distribution is supposed to exhibit a so-called correlation length and was thought to then become homogeneous—except for occasional fluctuations. More data and subsequent analysis have shown that these fluctuations are anything but occasional, as structures are seen to exist on length scales up to the maximum scales which can be probed with the new data. By reanalyzing the data, with methods that are particularly suited to fractal distributions, one finds no correlation length at all—indicating that the fractal structure may extend up to perhaps the largest length scales possible. Analysis also indicates that when galaxy masses are considered, the distribution may be multifractal. These conclusions have serious implications for many subfields in astrophysics today, from galaxy formation to the Robertson-Walker metric of spacetime.
Magnetic nanostructures: Overcoming thermal fluctuations

The storage density of computer hard drives has increased to the point that magnetic recording media is cheaper than paper. Yet there are limits to this technology. As they decrease in size, magnetic 'bits' become thermally unstable, providing a challenge to further miniaturization.
Electrical coupling efficiency of inductive plasma accelerators

A single-stage pulsed inductive plasma accelerator is modeled as an inductive mass-driver. The plasma is treated as a rigid slug, which acts as the armature. The system is a transformer, with the drive coil serving as the primary and the slug as the secondary. We derive a set of coupled dynamic-circuit equations, which depend on five dimensionless coefficients, and on the functional form of the mutual inductance profile, M (z). For a given coil geometry, M (z) was determined experimentally and compared to the results of calculations carried out with QuickField. The equations are solved with various coefficient values, in order to determine the conditions that yield high efficiencies. It was found that the coupling efficiency can be quite high and likely scales with power, although this does not preclude operation at lower power with acceptable efficiency. The effect of an imbedded magnetic bias flux, as for the case of a plasmoid thruster, was also included in the calculations.
Variable expression of histocompatibility antigens on tumor cells

During the last decade the H-2 major histocompatibility complex (MHC) has become the focal point of cellular immunology, with emphasis on its role in regulating the magnitude and specificity of T cell responses. The studies reviewed in this paper add to the growing realization that the MHC may also determine the antigenicity and immunogenicity of tumor-associated antigens. It is imperative that appropriate assays be developed to analyse human tumors for variations in histocompatibility antigen expression and to determine the exact genetic and molecular mechanisms involved. A thorough understanding of the variable expression of histocompatibility antigens on tumor cells should have far-reaching consequences for the concept of immunesurveillance and for the design of effective immunotherapeutic procedures.
A filtered ASTA property

Recently, the PASTA (Poisson Arrivals See Time Averages) property has been extended to ASTA (Arrivals See Time Averages) by eliminating the need for Poisson arrivals and weakening the LAA (Lack of Anticipation Assumption). This paper presents a strengthening of ASTA under the original LAA of Wolff. We consider a stochastic processX with an associated point processN that admits a stochastic intensity and satisfies LAA. Various authors have noted in various contexts that ASTA holds if and only if the arrival intensity is state independent. For a class of point processes that includes doubly stochastic as well as ordinary Poisson processes, we prove that the point process obtained by restricting the processX to any given set of states not only has the same intensity but also the same probabilistic structure as the original point process. In particular, if the original point process is Poisson, the new point process is still Poisson with the same parameter as the original point process. For a discrete-time version, of interest in its own right, we provide a simple proof of a strengthened version of ASTA in discrete time. Unlike other discrete-time versions of ASTA, ours is valid for point processes with stationary but not necessarily independent increments. The continuous-time results are obtained using martingale theory. A corollary is a simple proof of PASTA under conditions that require only that the relevant limits exist. Our results may also provide some insight into characterizing Poisson flows in queueing systems.
Intuitive sense of number correlates with math scores on college-entrance examination

Many educated adults possess exact mathematical abilities in addition to an approximate, intuitive sense of number, often referred to as the Approximate Number System (ANS). Here we investigate the link between ANS precision and mathematics performance in adults by testing participants on an ANS-precision test and collecting their scores on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), a standardized college-entrance exam in the USA. In two correlational studies, we found that ANS precision correlated with SAT-Quantitative (i.e., mathematics) scores. This relationship remained robust even when controlling for SAT-Verbal scores, suggesting a small but specific relationship between our primitive sense for number and formal mathematical abilities.
Phantom vestibular perception: Unfeasible or unnoticed?

AbstractObjective: Phantom percepts frequently accompany the loss or damage of body parts or sensation, and have been described for virtually everything except for the vestibular system. Is it possible that phantom vestibular percepts exist and explain some cases of chronic dizziness, or is there something unique to the vestibular system that forbids this? Study design: This review surveyed the literature for any references to phantom vestibular perceptions. This was followed by a broader survey of phantom phenomena. Areas of focus were hearing, the limbs, and vision, and these were theoretically related to the vestibular system. Results: There apparently are no references to vestibular phantoms. There is robust research on tinnitus, phantom limb syndrome, and phantom eye syndrome. There are similar features and proposed aetiological models among these syndromes. Conclusion: It is within reason that vestibular phantom percepts exist, but to date have gone unnoticed due to the subjective nature of vestibul...
Interaction of pH-Sensitive Liposomes With Blood Components

AbstractAvoidance of lysosomal degradation of drugs entrapped in liposomes has been one of the major efforts in liposome research. The achievement of high drug deliver}' efficiency using pH-sensitive liposomes over the pH-insensitive liposomes has greatly influenced our strategies in liposome drug delivery. The success of pH-sensitive liposomes in delivering compounds such as fluorescence dye, anti-cancer reagents, toxins and DNA to target cells with high efficiency in vitro shows a great potential to apply the same strategy to in vivo systems. Using human plasma as a simplified model for blood, we have systematically examined the interaction of pH-sensitive liposomes composed of dioleoylphosphatidyl-ethanolamine (DOPE) and oleic acid (OA) with plasma components. Our results show that the bilayer structure of liposomes in plasma depends on their sizes. Small liposomes (d 600nm) were rapidly lysed upon the exposure to plasma. Such differe...
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis of poly(vinylidene fluoride)—poly(vinyl acetate) blends

Abstract Compatible polymer blends are formed by the combination of two or more polymers to produce a homogeneous, single-phase mixture. Compatibility is dependent on the existence of strong, non-dispersive intermolecular interactions between specific chemical groups of the component polymers. Infrared spectroscopy can detect these molecular interactions from differences between the blend spectrum and the spectra of the component polymers. These differences may include shifts in the absorption frequency, increases in the band width and changes in the absorptivity of the bands which occur on blending. Spectral data processing techniques such as factor analysis, difference spectroscopy and least-squares curve fitting can then be applied to characterize these interactions. The compatibility of poly(vinylidene fluoride)-poly(vinyl acetate) (PVF2-PVAc) blends was studied as a function of thermal treatment and blend composition. The degree of interaction within the blends was found to be greater in the samples heat treated at 175°C than in those heat treated at 75°C. For both sets of samples, there occurred a general increase in the degree of interaction with a corresponding increase in the PVF2 concentration. Further, the interaction contribution did not decrease over a period of 24 days, which indicated that no detectable phase separation had occurred. It was also determined that the samples heat treated at 75°C had a more homogeneous distribution of the interactions between the PVF2 and PVAc molecules.
Perovskite-related intergrowth cathode materials with thin YSZ electrolytes for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells

Abstract The electrochemical performances of solid oxide fuel cells with thin yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolytes and YSZ/Ni anodes were studied with two intergrowth oxides cathodes (Sr 2.7 La 0.3 Fe 1.4 Co 0.6 O 7−δ and LaSr 3 Fe 1.5 Co 1.5 O 10−δ ) and the results compared to a related perovskite cathode (La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.5 Fe 0.5 O 3−δ ). It was found that cells produced with LaSr 3 Fe 1.5 Co 1.5 O 10−δ exhibited peak power densities close to 0.75 W cm −2 , despite the relatively modest electrical conductivity of this compound. In contrast, cells produced with Sr 2.7 La 0.3 Fe 1.4 Co 0.6 O 7−δ and La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.5 Fe 0.5 O 3−δ cathodes both exhibited peak power densities of less than 0.4 W cm −2 . The greater performance for the cells produced with LaSr 3 Fe 1.5 Co 1.5 O 10−δ may be attributed to a higher catalytic activity for this compound or to an improved adhesion of the cathode to the interlayer/electrolyte.
Development of chemical sensing platforms based on sol-gel-derived thin films : origin of film age vs performance trade-offs

We present a detailed investigation on the evolution and performance of sol−gel-derived thin films as used for chemical sensing platforms. In order to develop an understanding of how the sol−gel ma...
El Puente: transnationalism among Cubans of English-speaking Caribbean descent

This article examines intra-Caribbean migration and transnationalism through the case of anglophone Caribbean immigrants and their descendants in Cuba. In seeking an explanation for the resurgence of English-speaking Caribbean associations in Cuba during the 1990s, it explores the historical trajectory of this group from the time of arrival through the 1959 Revolution to the present. In addition to providing a narrative of the experience of this particular group of Anglo-Caribbean/Afro-Latin American/African diasporic subjects and illuminating the continuities and discontinuities in transnational practices over time, I argue that this case of West Indian Cubans expands the notion of the transnational social field itself beyond the sending and receiving countries, particularly for those who lived in Guantanamo and worked on the US naval base. I also argue that this case clearly, and perhaps dramatically, demonstrates the primacy of the state in regulating transnational processes and provides insights into ...
Type-safe cast: (functional pearl)

In a language with non-parametric or ad-hoc polymorphism, it is possible to determine the identity of a type variable at run-time. With this facility, we can write a function to convert a term from one abstract type to another, if the two hidden types are identical. However, the naive implementation of this function requires that the term be destructed and rebuilt. In this paper, we show how to eliminate this overhead using higher-order type abstraction. We demonstrate this solution in two frameworks for ad-hoc polymorphism: intensional type analysis and type classes.
Robust Nonlinear Attitude Control of Flexible Spacecraft

This paper presents an approach to large-angle rotationalmaneuvers of a spacecraft-beam-tip body configuration based onnonlinear invertibility and linear feedback stabilization. A controllaw Ud is derived for the decoupled control of attitude angles, lateralelastic deflections, slopes due to bending and angular deflection dueto torsion at the tip of the beam using torquers and force actuators.For the stabilization of the elastic modes, a linear feedback controllaw us is obtained based on a linearized model augmented with aservocompensator. Simulation results are presented to show thatlarge slewing and elastic mode stabilization can be accomplished.
Calcification of glutaraldehyde cross-linked collagen in bladder neck injections in children with incontinence: a long-term complication.

Purpose: We report the incidence of calcifications developing at the bladder neck/urethra in pediatric patients treated with glutaraldehyde cross-linked collagen for urinary incontinence.Materials and Methods: We reviewed charts of patients treated with glutaraldehyde cross-linked collagen injections for urinary incontinence between 1994 and 1999. Etiology of incontinence, pertinent medical history, operative details and postoperative imaging were examined.Results: Of 31 patients 4 (13%) had development of submucosal calcifications in the bladder neck/urethra. All 4 patients had received multiple injections of glutaraldehyde cross-linked collagen for incontinence secondary to neurogenic bladder. The calcifications were confirmed surgically. Pathology reports available for 2 of 4 patients showed chronic inflammation without dysplasia or malignant changes. Mean followup was significantly different between calcified and noncalcified cases (10.3 vs 7.2 years, p = 0.009), as was total volume of collagen inject...
Reversing the WHO crisis: transparent priority matching of global needs with donor objectives

Since its creation in 1948, the World Health Organization has been involved in a variety of successful global health initiatives. Legge identifies the “substantial shortfall in the funds available for basic administrative functions” that is now limiting WHO’s effectiveness.1 He stresses that the three decade freeze on “assessed contributions” has left WHO beholden to voluntary donors and recommends persuading member states to “untie” their donations to increase WHO’s …
Partitioning Responsibility for the Evaluation of the Conseqyences of Assessment Programs

How can the enterprise of looking at the consequences of testing in America be moved forward? What are the responsibilities of the key actors? How can we accumulate the evidence that we need?
Brownian Dynamics Simulations of Polyalanine in Salt Solutions

The distribution and dynamics of the mobile monovalent ion atmosphere around polyalanine in aqueous solution at various ionic strengths have been simulated by the Brownian dynamics method. Initial simulations of pure sodium chloride solutions were performed to examine the influence of the choice of nonbonded cutoff distance on simulation results. Simulations were then performed to study how different conformations of polyalanine affect the distribution and dynamics of the mobile monovalent ion atmosphere. We found that it was necessary to use a nonbonded cutoff >30 A in order to get reliable results for the ion pair radial distribution functions, the ionic polarizabilities, and the auto time-correlation functions of the collective dipole moments of the sodium chloride solutions. We also found that α-helical polyalanines preferentially bound sodium ions at 0.1 M sodium chloride concentration. The preferential binding of sodium ions was still noticeable but less pronounced when the polyalanines were in the ...
Oscillating magnetic field-actuated microvalves for micro- and nanofluidics

The feasibility of using tunable magnetic nanoparticles embedded in cylindrical hydrogel materials as a flow regulator via thermo-mechanical gating is studied within microfluidic channels. Ferromagnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) encapsulated within a thermo-sensitive polymer network (-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM)) was polymerized inside 300 µm diameter micro-capillary tubes. An oscillating magnetic field range 20–125 Oe, (100–1000 kHz) was used to induce heat and control the valving action. Valving action was effectively regulated by modulating the magnetically responsive PNIPAM networks (MPNIPAM) and thereby physically regulating the harmonics (swelling and shrinking) of the polymer monolith inside the microchannel. Magnetic properties in terms of saturation magnetization, remanence and coercivity of the designed system have been extracted for data accuracy. The optimum concentration of NIPAM monomer in the polymer matrix and the embedded nanoparticles yield ~80% volume shrinkage inside the microchannel, which is close to the undoped PNIPAM system, without compromising the oscillating field induced heating. Very importantly, the oscillating field-actuated de-swelling response time is ~3 s, which is significantly faster than the thermal actuation, and in addition the microvalve exhibits a faster response time compared with the macrovalve (MPNIPAM monolith inside 1500 µm diameter channel). The enhanced shrinkage rate and the actuation efficiency might be ideal for many biomedical applications, including synergistic application of heat and sustained releasing capability of chemotherapeutic agents.
Effects of calcium on a parathyroid hormone-sensitive adenylate cyclase inhibitor.

Inhibition of parathyroid hormone (PTH)-sensitive adenylate cyclase by {Nle-8, Nle-18, Tyr-34} bPTH-(3–34) amide was studied in thyroparathyroid-ectomized dogs. The inhibitory effect was shown to be markedly enhanced by the addition of calcium ions into the in, vitro assay system. At 0.1 mM Ca2+, complete inhibition by the antagonist was obtained. Chelation of exogenous Ca2+ by EGTA eliminated the Ca2+-induced inhibition. Both the basal and hormone-stimulated activities were decreased in the presence of 0.1 mM Ca2+, whereas the addition of EGTA increased both activities. Our results suggest that Ca2+ modulates canine renal PTH-sensitive adenylate cyclase and its inhibition by substituted bPTH-(3–34).
Chaos and God's Abundance: An Ontology of Variety in the Divine Life

The primordial chaos of Genesis 1 may be understood as the Pandemonium Tremendum (or PT), the infinite field of variety or abundance wirhin God. The concept of variety is taken from Claude Shannon's theory of communication. Especially significant is Shannon's notion that communication is the limitation of variety through decision processes. In one model of the divine life suggested by the theory, the PT is the boundless source of potential reaped by an agential God in the act of creation as a communication process. Other models for creation include the PT in a biased mode and creatures themselves as decision agents.
Physical properties and compact analysis of commonly used direct compression binders.

This study investigated the basic physico-chemical property and binding functionality of commonly used commercial direct compression binders/fillers. The compressibility of these materials was also analyzed using compression parameters derived from the Heckel, Kawakita, and Cooper-Eaton equations. Five classes of excipients were evaluated, including microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), starch, lactose, dicalcium phosphate (DCP), and sugar. In general, the starch category exhibited the highest moisture content followed by MCC, DCP, lactose, and finally sugars; DCP displayed the highest density, followed by sugar, lactose, starch, and MCC; the material particle size is highly processing dependent. The data also demonstrated that MCC had moderate flowability, excellent compressibility, and extremely good compact hardness; with some exceptions, starch, lactose, and sugar generally exhibited moderate flowability, compressibility, and hardness; DCP had excellent flowability, but poor compressibility and hardness. This research additionally confirmed the binding mechanism that had been well documented: MCC performs as binder because of its plastic deformation under pressure; fragmentation is the predominant mechanism in the case of lactose and DCP; starch and sugar perform by both mechanism.
Condensation of Freon-114 in the Presence of a Strong Nonuniform, Alternating Electric Field

The condensation of Freon-114 in the presence of a nonuniform, alternating, 60-cycle, electric field was examined experimentally. The condensing surface was a grounded, cooled flat plate, and the electric field was produced by applying a voltage to a second plate placed above the first. Voltages up to 60 kv were imposed, and nonuniformities in the field were created by varying the angle between the plates. Analytical predictions were made of the expected heat-transfer rate, and reasonable agreement with the experimental data was obtained for voltages less than 40 kv. Above 40 kv the results were unpredictable, but increases in the heat-transfer coefficient as high as ten times that for no field were obtained.
Spatial and temporal distributions of epiphytic diatoms growing on Thalassia testudinum Banks ex König: relationships to water quality

The spatial and temporal distributions of the epiphytic diatom flora on Thalassia testudinum was described within the Florida Bay estuary and at one Atlantic site east of the Florida Keys over a 1-year period. Species of the genus Mastogloia dominated the epiphytic diatom flora (82 out of 332 total species). Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) and Analysis of Similarity (ANOSIM) revealed four distinct spatial assemblages and two temporal assemblages. Eastern and western Florida Bay assemblages were identified within the estuary. The eastern diatom assemblage was characterized by high relative abundances of Brachysira aponina and Nitzschia liebetruthii, while the western assemblage was characterized by the abundance of Reimerothrix floridensis, particularly during summer. Two diverse and distinct marine assemblages, one located in the Gulf of Mexico along the western edge of Florida Bay and the other behind the Florida reef tract in the Atlantic Ocean, were also identified. Analysis of the spatial distribution of diatoms and water quality characteristics within Florida Bay suggest that these assemblages may be structured by salinity and nutrient availability, particularly P. The Gulf of Mexico and the western Florida Bay assemblages were associated with higher water column salinities and TP concentrations and lower DIN concentrations and TN:TP ratios relative to the eastern Florida Bay assemblage. The temporal variation in diatom assemblages was associated with water temperature, though temporal indicator species were few relative to the number of spatial indicators.
IMPROVING ON THE BASIC EGG: THE M‐C CLOZE

An open-ended cloze procedure was modified by item-analytical and error-analytical techniques. A short (33 items) multiple-choice (M-C) test was the result of that modification. The new test was administered as an experimental adjunct to an established placement examination at a large university in the eastern United States. The M-C cloze took less than twenty minutes to administer and score, yet rivaled the placement accurary of the much longer placement examination. Substantial correlation was found between the M-C cloze and the sub-tests of the placement examination. The study provides evidence for the feasibility of vastly reducing the time spent in placement testing in established English as a second language programs without sacrificing the quality of the information derived from that testing.