cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Where Does Ultrasound Stand in Technology Assessment and Outcomes Research: Issues, Methods, and Questions

Although diagnostic ultrasound has been widely applied for various clinical conditions and diseases, its clinical effectiveness remains less well defined. Technology assessment can be applied to ultrasound and includes several criteria such as techologic capability, range of possible uses, diagnostic accuracy, impact on health care providers, therapeutic impact, and patient outcome. A review of each of these criteria is provided to raise sonographer awareness as to the need for further reserch in this area.
Monohydroxylated metabolites of the K2 synthetic cannabinoid JWH-073 retain intermediate to high cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) affinity and exhibit neutral antagonist to partial agonist activity

Abstract K2 and several similar purported “incense products” spiked with synthetic cannabinoids are abused as cannabis substitutes. We hypothesized that metabolism of JWH-073, a prevalent cannabinoid found in K2, contributes to toxicity associated with K2 use. Competition receptor binding studies and G-protein activation assays, both performed by employing mouse brain homogenates, were used to determine the affinity and intrinsic activity, respectively, of potential monohydroxylated (M1, M3–M5) and monocarboxylated (M6) metabolites at cannabinoid 1 receptors (CB1Rs). Surprisingly, M1, M4 and M5 retain nanomolar affinity for CB1Rs, while M3 displays micromolar affinity and M6 does not bind to CB1Rs. JWH-073 displays equivalent efficacy to that of the CB1R full agonist CP-55,940, while M1, M3, and M5 act as CB1R partial agonists, and M4 shows little or no intrinsic activity. Further in vitro investigation by Schild analysis revealed that M4 acts as a competitive neutral CB1R antagonist ( K b ∼ 40 nM). In agreement with in vitro studies, M4 also demonstrates CB1R antagonism in vivo by blunting cannabinoid-induced hypothermia in mice. Interestingly, M4 does not block agonist-mediated responses of other measures in the cannabinoid tetrad ( e.g. , locomotor suppression, catalepsy or analgesia). Finally, also as predicted by in vitro results, M1 exhibits agonist activity in vivo by inducing significant hypothermia and suppression of locomotor activity in mice. In conclusion, the present study indicates that further work examining the physiological effects of synthetic cannabinoid metabolism is warranted. Such a complex mix of metabolically produced CB1R ligands may contribute to the adverse effect profile of JWH-073-containing products.
Hydration Dynamics Near a Model Protein Surface

The evolution of water dynamics from dilute to very high concentration solutions of a prototypical hydrophobic amino acid with its polar backbone, N-acetyl-leucine-methylamide (NALMA), is studied by quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation for both the completely deuterated and completely hydrogenated leucine monomer. The NALMA-water system and the QENS data together provide a unique study for characterizing the dynamics of different hydration layers near a prototypical hydrophobic side chain and the backbone of which it is attached. We observe several unexpected features in the dynamics of these biological solutions under ambient conditions. The NALMA dynamics shows evidence of de Gennes narrowing, an indication of coherent long timescale structural relaxation dynamics. The translational and rotational water dynamics at the highest solute concentrations are found to be highly suppressed as characterized by long residential time and slow diffusion coefficients. The analysis of the more dilute concentration solutions models the first hydration shell with the 2.0 M spectra. We find that for outer layer hydration dynamics that the translational diffusion dynamics is still suppressed, although the rotational relaxation time and residential time are converged to bulk-water values. Molecular dynamics analysis of the first hydration shell water dynamics shows spatially heterogeneous water dynamics, with fast water motions near the hydrophobic side chain, and much slower water motions near the hydrophilic backbone. We discuss the hydration dynamics results of this model protein system in the context of protein function and protein-protein recognition.
Oil formation and fluid convection in Railroad Valley, NV: a study using cosmogenic isotopes to determine the onset of hydrocarbon migration

Abstract The onset of hydrocarbon migration is a critical question for the understanding of the formation processes of oil reservoirs. We present here first results on the use of cosmogenic isotopes to address this question. We tested the application of 129 I and 36 Cl determinations on oil field brines from Railroad Valley, NV, where several oil fields exist in close association with geothermal activity. Residence times in the reservoir rocks calculated using the 129 I system in oil field brines coexisting with oils in Railroad Valley range from 6–24 Ma. This range is shifted to 7–28 Ma if the fissiogenic contribution from reservoir rocks is taken into account. The spread in residence times indicates that oils were separated from source regions at different times during the evolution of fluid convection. The longest residence time is interpreted as the onset of fluid convection in this region. This corresponds well with the dating of structural activity in Railroad Valley, a likely mechanism for geothermal activity in this region.
Multiple Sourcing and Procurement Process Selection with Bidding Events

We examine the procurement process selection problem of a large industrial buyer who employs reverse auctions for awarding procurement contracts. We contrast two classes of commonly used strategies under multiple sourcing; namely, single-stage reverse auctions, and two-stage processes where price-quantity adjustments between the buyer and the suppliers follow a first-stage reverse auction. Deriving bounds of efficiency for these two classes of procurement processes under convex supplier production costs, we present insights on the conditions under which each class is preferable for the buyer. Considering the effect of contracting and processing costs, a single-stage process is likely to be preferable to a two-stage process when the number of bidding suppliers is high, especially when capacity is rigid. A two-stage process with one information transfer in the second stage may be the preferred procurement mode when production is highly scalable, i.e., when the marginal production cost increase with increased production is small. When the number of suppliers is low, the effect of a decrease in production scalability depends on the current scalability level. For high scalability levels, a decrease in production scalability may decrease the efficiency of both single-stage and simple two-stage processes, whereas for low scalability levels, it tends to increase efficiency for both of these process classes. A decrease in production costs makes employing simple processes more attractive when production is highly scalable or when supplier capacity is rigid. For intermediate production scalability, however, a cost decrease may make employing two-stage processes with multiple information transfers in the second round preferable for the buyer.
Three-Dimensional Cognitive System for Quick Perception and Inspection of Mechanical Part Using Computer Tomography

Summary The paper deals with a new method for the efficient and autonomous perception and inspection of three dimensional geometry of a mechanical part. The method developed is based on a high power X-ray CT (Computer Tomography) applied image capturing and three dimensional computer image processing. The system was developed such that a geometric model of the part can automatically be reconstructed as a computer software model with newly developed algorithms which can autonomously perceive three dimensional geometry features of the part. The feasibility of the proposed method was successfuly demonstrated by the experiments using the developed system.
Nekton use ofVallisneria americana Michx. (Wild celery) beds and adjacent habitats in Coastal Louisiana

We compared nekton use ofVallisneria americana Michx. (submerged aquatic vegetation, SAV) with marsh shoreline vegetation and subtidal nonvegetated bottom (SNB) using a 1-m2 drop sampler in the oligohaline area of Barataria Bay, Louisiana. Mean densities of most abundant species were significantly different among six habitat types. Harris mud crabRhithropanopeus harrisii, Ohio shrimpMacrobrachium ohione, blue crabCallinectes sapidus, daggerblade, grass shrimpPalaemonetes pugio, white shrimpLitopenaeus setiferus (fall), rainwater, killifishLucania parva, naked gobyGobiosoma bosc, code gobyGobiosoma robustum (fall), speckled worm eelMyrophis punctatus (fall), and gulf pipefishSyngnathus scovelli (spring), were much more abundant, and species richness also was greater, inVallisneria than over SNB.Vallisneria supported densities of most species that were similar to those in marsh vegetation, although naked goby and gulf pipefish were more abundant inVallisneria, and speckled worm eel and saltmarsh topminnowFundulus jenkinsi were more abundant in marsh. Within theVallisneria bed, densities of Harris mud crab, rainwater killifish, and speckled worm eel were higher at sites near the marsh (SAV Inside Edge) than at sites more distant from the marsh (SAV Outside Edge), and Ohio shrimp (fall) densities were higher in the interior of the bed than along the edges. The mean size of blue crab was larger in marsh thanVallisneria and large inVallisneria than SNB. White shrimp did not differ in size among habitat types.Vallisneria beds may provide an important nursery habitat for young blue crab and white shrimp that use oligohaline estuarine areas. These SAV beds can provide an alternative structural habitat to emergent vegetation during periods of low water, becauseVallisneria occurs in the subtidal and generally persists throughout the year on the Gulf coast. Species whose young thrive in low-salinity waters and also depend on structure would benefit most fromVallisneria habitat in estuaries.
Malignant epithelioid pleural mesothelioma versus peripheral pulmonary adenocarcinoma: a histochemical, ultrastructural, and immunohistologic study of 103 cases.

Abstract The distinction between malignant epithelioid pleural mesothelioma (MEPM) and peripheral adenocarcinoma of the lung with pleural invasion (PAL) continues to represent a diagnostic challenge in selected cases. In order to provide comparative data on histologic, histochemical, and immunohistochemical features of these neoplasms, we analyzed 51 ultrastructurally categorized MEPMs and 52 PALs with the periodic acid-Schiff-diastase (PAS-D), mucicarmine, and colloidal iron stains, and a panel of immunohistologic reagents. Antibodies to cytokeratin, vimentin, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), Leu M1, the B72.3 antigen, blood group isoantigens (BGI), placental alkaline phosphatase, amylase, S100 protein, and Clara cell antigen were used, as applied to paraffin sections with the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex technique. Ultrastructural studies revealed long, branching microvilli in MEPM cells in all cases, with length-to-diameter ratios (LDR) or 10:1 or more. In contrast, PAL manifested short, nonbranching microvilli with LDR of 8:1 or less. Reactivity with PAS-D and mucicarmine stains was strictly confined to PAL, and hyaluronidase-sensitive colloidal iron-positivity was restricted to MEPM. However, only 63% and 41% of these respective neoplasms demonstrated such histochemical reactivity. Immunohistologic results correlated well with electron microscopic classification. All MEPMs and PALs were reactive for cytokeratin; in addition, the majority of tumors in each group expressed EMA, and a minority were reactive for vimentin. In adenocarcinomas of the lung, Leu M1 was observed in all cases, CEA was apparent in 96%, B72.3 labeled 84%, and BGI were present in 67%; all PALs expressed at least two of these determinants, but none was seen in any mesothelioma. The other markers included in this study also were observed in some PAL cases, but not in MEPM. These findings suggest that immunohistology parallels electron microscopy in efficacy in the diagnostic separation of MEPM and PAL. Using antibodies to leu M1, CEA, and the B72.3 antigen, reactivity for at least two of these three markers appears to exclude a diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma. The other glycoproteinaceous, oncoplacentofetal, and cytoplasmic antigens we studied can be used to reinforce such a determination, since their distribution is confined to adenocarcinomas.
Mr perfusion studies with t1‐weighted echo planar imaging

The T1 perfusion model has worked well in brain functional studies where flow changes are measured. Using selective and nonselective inversion pulses, a new method has been developed to study steady-state brain blood flow. The authors obtained flow-sensitive images using selective inversion and flow-insensitive images using nonselective inversion. Subtraction of flow-insensitive images from flow-sensitive images gave us flow-weighted images with good gray-white flow contrast in cortical gray matter as well as in the thalamus and basal ganglia. Fitting T1S of flow-insensitive and flow-sensitive images allowed us to obtain preliminary results of brain blood flow maps. Two specific problems can seriously affect the accuracy of the brain blood flow values and the gray-white flow contrast of brain blood flow maps. These are the problems of the partial volume effect of CSF and gray matter, and the difference between blood T1 and white matter T1. The authors discuss in detail the character of these problems and present a number of approaches to manage such problems.
Striking a balance in fragile X

In fragile X syndrome, the absence of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) allows the production of certain proteins to go unchecked in the brain. A recent study in mice suggests that bringing excessive translation into balance may provide a key to treating this syndrome (pages 1473–1477).
Comparison of oxygen bomb method to other methods for measuring oxidative stability of peanuts and peanut products

The active oxygen method of the American Oil Chemists' Society has been used extensively to evaluate the oxidative stability of fats and oils. The AOM lacks versatility, however, in that it can be used for only a few products such as lard and vegetable oils. Experience in our laboratory has shown that results also can differ widely, even on the same sample. Recent work with the oxygen bomb at the National Peanut Research Laboratory has shown that it is both reliable and accurate when compared to other methods for measuring the oxidative stability of peanuts and peanut products. Results with the oxygen bomb were compared to the active oxygen method and iodine value of the peants.
Recoverable polyimide resins

Synthese de polyimides (durcissement thermique de bismaleimide de dithio-4,4' aniline) dans lesquels les liaisons disulfures peuvent etre rompues par reduction et reformees par oxydation
In vitro assessment of 3-T MRI issues for a bioabsorbable, coronary artery scaffold with metallic markers.

Abstract Objective Coronary artery stents are made from metallic mesh and, therefore, to ensure patient safety, these implants must be evaluated to determine risks associated with MRI. Recently, bioabsorbable scaffolds, which have metallic markers, have been developed for use in the coronary arteries. Because of the metallic materials, these implants may present issues for patients undergoing MRI. Therefore, the objective of this investigation was to assess MRI issues (i.e., magnetic field interactions, MRI-related heating, and artifacts at 3 T) for a new bioabsorbable, coronary artery scaffold with metallic markers. Methods A bioabsorbable, coronary artery scaffold (Mirage Microfiber Scaffold) underwent assessments for magnetic field interactions, MRI-related heating, and artifacts at 3-Tesla using standard techniques. MRI-related heating was evaluated with the scaffold placed in a gelled-saline-filled phantom and MRI was performed at an MR system reported, whole body averaged SAR of 2.9 W/kg for 15 minutes. Artifacts were characterized using T1-weighted spin echo and gradient echo, pulse sequences. Results There were no magnetic field interactions. The highest temperature rise was 1.6 °C (highest background temperature rise, 1.6 °C). Artifacts were relatively small in relation to the size and shape of this coronary artery scaffold. Notably, the lumen of the scaffold could be visualized on the GRE pulse sequence. Conclusion The results demonstrated that the coronary artery scaffold is acceptable (or “MR conditional,” using current MRI labeling terminology) for a patient undergoing an MRI procedure at 3 T or less. To our knowledge, this is the first bioabsorbable, coronary artery scaffold that has been evaluated for MRI issues.
A method of dosimetry for irregularly shaped fields.

Abstract The calculation of an effective equivalent square treatment area for an irregularly shaped field, using the table of equivalent squares from B.J.R. Supplement 11 3 is explained. Depth doses obtained using this calculated area are compared with experimentally measured values; the results obtained indicate that the method, which is simple enough to be used by technologists, is sufficiently accurate for routine use in treatment planning.
The Development of a Performance Evaluation Instrument for Upward Evaluation of Supervisors by Subordinates.

Abstract The performance evaluation of a supervisor usually relies solely on the observations and judgments of the supervisor's supervisor. However, the validity of performance evaluations could be unproved if a variety of sources were consulted: One of these sources is the supervisor's subordinate. This article provides a detailed discussion of how a valid and reliable instrument for upward appraisal was developed at the Dayton-Montgomery County (Ohio) Public Library.
Adducin forms a bridge between the erythrocyte membrane and its cytoskeleton and regulates membrane cohesion

The erythrocyte membrane skeleton is the best understood cytoskeleton. Because its protein components have homologs in virtually all other cells, the membrane serves as a fundamental model of biologic membranes. Modern textbooks portray the membrane as a 2-dimensional spectrin-based membrane skeleton attached to a lipid bilayer through 2 linkages: band 3–ankyrin–β-spectrin and glycophorin C–protein 4.1–β-spectrin.1–7 Although evidence supports an essential role for the first bridge in regulating membrane cohesion, rupture of the glycophorin C–protein 4.1 interaction has little effect on membrane stability.8 We demonstrate the existence of a novel band 3–adducin–spectrin bridge that connects the spectrin/actin/protein 4.1 junctional complex to the bilayer. As rupture of this bridge leads to spontaneous membrane fragmentation, we conclude that the band 3–adducin–spectrin bridge is important to membrane stability. The required relocation of part of the band 3 population to the spectrin/actin junctional complex and its formation of a new bridge with adducin necessitates a significant revision of accepted models of the erythrocyte membrane.
A putative donor of S-cytoplasm and its distribution among open-pollinated populations of onion.

Cytoplasmic-genic male-sterility systems are used to economically produce hybrid onion seed. Previous studies have indicated that the source of cytoplasmic male sterility discovered in 1925 by Jones (S-cytoplasm) may be an alien cytoplasm. Restriction enzyme analysis of the chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) revealed five polymorphisms between S and normal (N) fertile cytoplasms. S-cytoplasm was different from the Allium species closely related to the bulb onion, and cladistic estimates of phylogenies supported introduction from an unknown species. S-cytoplasm was identical for all polymorphisms in the cpDNA to ‘Pran’, a triploid viviparous onion. ‘Pran’ shares morphological characteristics with ‘Italian Red 13–53’, the single plant source of S-cytoplasm. Densiometric scans of autoradiograms revealed that 12 of 31 open-pollinated populations of onion possessed S-cytoplasm and that introgression may have occurred since the discovery of S-cytoplasm.
Dermal toxicity of topical (-)epigallocatechin-3-gallate in BALB/c and SKH1 mice

(-)Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the major polyphenolic component of green tea, inhibits experimental chemical and physical carcinogenesis, yet little toxicological data has been reported. Therefore, we performed studies on the dermal toxicity of EGCG applied in an ointment formulation in mice. Female BALB/c mice were dehaired with a topical depilatory and administered 75 microl EGCG in hydrophilic Ointment U.S.P. at three concentrations (10, 3, and 1%, all w/w) daily for 30 days. At the 10% concentration, gross toxicity was manifested by the formation of erythema and papular lesions by day 5. A 7% reduction in weight was observed by day 15. No toxicity was observed at the two lower concentrations or in the vehicle control group. Also, no toxicity was observed when mice were dehaired by shaving. This study was repeated in female SKH1 mice, an outbred hairless strain that does not require depilation. No toxicity was observed in the SKH1 mice, indicating that daily topical EGCG appears non-toxic in normal skin. However, use of topical depilatories may potentiate dermal toxicity of EGCG.
Geometric derivation of string field theory from first principles: Closed strings and modular invariance

We present an entirely new approach to closed-string field theory, called Igeometric string field theory R, which avoids the complications found in Becchi-Rouet-Stora-Tyutin string field theory (e.g., ghost counting, infinite overcounting of diagrams, midpoints, lack of modular invariance). Following the analogy with general relativity and Yang-Mills theory, we define a new infinite-dimensional local gauge group, called the unified string group, which uniquely specifies the connection fields, the curvature tensor, the measure and tensor calculus, and finally the action itself. Geometric field theory, when gauge fixed, yields an entirely new class of gauges called the interpolating gauge which allows us to smoothly interpolate between the midpoint gauge and the end-point gauge (``covariantized light-cone gauge''). We can show that geometric string field theory reproduces one copy of the Shapiro-Virasoro model. Surprisingly, after the gauge is broken, a new Iclosed four-string interactionR emerges as the counterpart of the instantaneous four-fermion Coulomb term in QED. This term restores modular invariance and precisely fills the missing region of the complex plane.
An O( n log n ) algorithm for the zoo-keeper's problem

We consider the zoo-keeper's problem which asks for the shortest closed zoo-keeper's path starting at a given point of the zoo and touching all the cages in the zoo. We present an O(n log n) time algorithm for the zoo-keeper's problem where n is the input size. The algorithm is based on a new data structure called the floodlight tree. We extend the approach to answer zoo-keeper's queries where one wants to find a zoo-keeper's path with a fixed start point, but an arbitrary final point. We show that zoo-keeper's queries can be answered in optimal time O(logn+K) where K is the output size.
17-AAG, an Hsp90 inhibitor, causes kinetochore defects: a novel mechanism by which 17-AAG inhibits cell proliferation

The Hsp90 inhibitor 17-allylaminogeldanamycin (17-AAG), which is currently in clinical trials, is thought to exert antitumor activity by simultaneously targeting several oncogenic signaling pathways. Here we report a novel mechanism by which 17-AAG inhibits cell proliferation, and we provide the first evidence that HSP90 is required for the assembly of kinetochore protein complexes in humans. 17-AAG caused delocalization of several kinetochore proteins including CENP-I and CENP-H but excluding CENP-B and CENP-C. Consistently, 17-AAG induced a mitotic arrest that depends on the spindle checkpoint and induced misalignment of chromosomes and aneuploidy. We found that HSP90 associates with SGT1 (suppressor of G2 allele of skp1; SUGT1) in human cells and that depletion of SGT1 sensitizes HeLa cells to 17-AAG. Overexpression of SGT1 restored the localization of specific kinetochore proteins and chromosome alignment in cells treated with 17-AAG. Biochemical and genetic results suggest that HSP90, through its interaction with SGT1 (SUGT1), is required for kinetochore assembly. Furthermore, time-course experiments revealed that transient treatment with 17-AAG between late S and G2/M phases causes substantial delocalization of CENP-H and CENP-I, a finding that strongly suggests that HSP90 participates in kinetochore assembly in a cell cycle-dependent manner.
An initial study of the fine fragmentation fly ash particle mode generated during pulverized coal combustion

The emission of ambient particulate matter that is less than 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter from commercial coal combustion sources may represent a greater risk of inhalation into human and animal respiratory systems than emission of larger particles. In addition, there is lower removal efficiency in flue gas particle collection equipment for these smaller particles that may also increase deposition in the downwind environment and subsequent migration into the water table. Recent results suggest that pulverized coal fly ash particle formation is best described as a tri-modal particle size distribution that includes a submicron fume region, a fine fragmentation region centered at approximately 2.0 μm diameter, and a bulk fragmentation region. A fundamental understanding of the mechanisms leading to the formation of the fine fragmentation region and of how this formation influences toxic trace metal partitioning is an important step to mitigating the environmental impact of coal combustion. Results are presented related to some of the factors related to this issue. An extensive SEM examination of fly ash particles in the fine fragmentation region indicates that these particles appear to have a much larger effective surface area compared to supermicron particles due to irregularities such as fractures, stretching, and shedding. These particles also appear to be more reactive with oxy-anion trace elements, such as arsenic and selenium, which may be important in understanding the dominant mechanism related to trace element partitioning during pulverized coal combustion.
MO-D-BRC-08: Improving the McKinnon-Bates 4D-CBCT Reconstruction Algorithm through Prior Destreaking

Purpose: On‐board 4D cone‐beam computed tomography(CBCT) is being actively pursued to help guide radiotherapy treatments of lungtumors. Among the existing 4D‐CBCT methods, the McKinnon‐Bates algorithm (MKB) has the advantage of being computationally efficient and not requiring additional scan time compared to a conventional 3‐D acquisition taking on the order of 1 minute. The resulting images, however, can suffer from temporal hysteresis and ghosting artifacts that hinder tumor delineation and determination of motion trajectories. This work describes an improvement to the MKB algorithm that reduces or eliminates the ghosting artifacts and restores tumor conspicuity in the lungs. Methods: Temporal blurring and ghosting are identified as being caused by motion‐induced streaks in the 3D image that serves as the MKB prior and which, ideally, should be a time‐averaged image of all respiratory phases. A prior destreaking method, using tissue thresholding and boundary erosion operations, is then proposed to remove the streaks without introducing new artifacts in the final phase images. The method is tested on simulated data using the XCAT phantom and on in vivo data from lungtumor patient. Image quality improvements are assessed in moving and static tissue. Results: The prior destreaking technique successfully removed motion‐induced streaks from the prior images, and the subsequent MKB reconstructions provided accurate spatial and temporal information. The lungtumor patient exhibited +/ −6 mm of diaphragm motion that was not seen in the original MKB reconstruction, but was clearly recorded after prior destreaking was employed. Phantom images were similarly improved. Conclusions: The MKB algorithm is enhanced by destreaking the prior image, and the proposed thresholding‐ and erosion‐based technique is proven to be effective and efficient. This approach enables 4D‐CBCT images to be acquired and reconstructed in a sufficiently short period of time forIGRT. All authors are employees of Varian Medical Systems.
Equilibrium incentives for most-favored customer clauses in an oligopolistic industry

Abstract This paper analyzes the economics of contemporaneous most-favored customer clauses (MFCC) in a non-cooperative n-firm oligopoly. In the first stage of a two-stage game, each firm independently decides whether to adopt MFCC; in the second stage, firms set prices non-cooperatively, given the first stage choices. In contrast to work on retroactive MFCC by Cooper [The RAND Journal of Economics (1986, 17, 377–388)], our analysis shows that not adopting MFCC can be a dominant strategy. The difference between our results and Cooper's highlights important differences between retroactive and contemporaneous MFCC and suggests that MFCC are a less powerful facilitating practice than retroactive MFCC. Our analysis also sheds new light on Grether and Plott's [Economic Inquiry (1984, 22, 497–507)] experimental results regarding the effects of MFCC on average industry prices.
The port community: an American view

LAND USE (PUBLIC, PRIVATE, NON-PORT), SERVICES (LONGSHORE, PILOTS, CUSTOMHOUSE BROKERS, FUMIGATION), PORT AUTHORITIES
A novel all-optic tunable long-period grating using a unique double-cladding layer

In this paper, a novel all-optic tunable filter based on long-period grating (LPG) with a unique double-cladding layer structure is implemented. The LPG that has an ultra-thin silica inner cladding layer and a dye-doped liquid crystal outer cladding layer is tuned by photochemical driving liquid-crystal molecular reorientation. The unique feature of this tunable filter is that there is no contact electrodes required, which may make the fabrication of tunable filter easier.
An approach to dose measurement for total body irradiation.

PURPOSE An approach is proposed to allow the interpretation of diode measurements on patients receiving total body irradiation (TBI) in opposed lateral fields as midplane dose measurements. METHODS AND MATERIALS This technique consists of making measurements on both entrance and exit sides of any ray path along which the midplane dose is desired. The diode on the entrance side is calibrated so that its output is indicative of the dose delivered at the depth of maximum dose along the ray. The diode on the exit side is calibrated so that its output represents the dose that would have been delivered to that depth had the medium (the patient) been semi-infinite. Because these two measurements lie along the same ray, they are related by a simple depth-dose equation from which the effective absorption coefficient (mueff) can be determined. The dose at the midplane is calculated using this mueff in a similar equation. RESULTS The validity of this approach was checked with measurements at isocenter and at the TBI distance using a polystyrene phantom. In both cases, the calculated midplane dose was within reasonable experimental error (range approximately +/- 2% on average) of the measured dose. Measurements on eight patients showed the excellent reproducibility of entrance surface measurements (standard deviation [SD] approximately +/- 1%), compared to that of midplane measurements (SD approximately +/- 4%) and exit surface measurements (SD approximately < or = 8%). Midplane doses determined from these equations confirmed that dose inhomogeneity using this opposed lateral technique is on the order of +/- 10% with highest doses delivered to the calves and lowest to the lungs. CONCLUSION Recent measurements made on TBI patients have shown that a commercial eight-diode system can be used successfully to measure the dose delivered to the midplane within an accuracy of approximately +/- 4%. The reproducibility of entrance surface measurements (approximately +/- 1%) shows that such measurements provide the accuracy required for quality assurance purposes.
Trends in Socioeconomic and Racial/Ethnic Inequalities in Self-Assessed Health, Disability, and Mental Health in California: Findings from CHIS 2001–2011

Despite growing interest in health inequalities across socioeconomic and racial/ethnic groups, research remains scarce on the subject for California. The purpose of this study is to assess magnitude and trends in socioeconomic and race/ethnicity inequalities in self-assessed health, disability, and psychological distress. This study used the population-representative sample aged 45 and older (n = 181,964) in 2001–2011 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). Based on poverty as socioeconomic position and race/ethnicity as nominal social group, health inequalities and the trend over time were examined by estimating population-weighted measures on both absolute and relative terms. The most economically disadvantaged Californians showed the highest rates of poor self-assessed health, disability, and serious psychological distress for the entire study period. Socioeconomic health inequalities have widened in poor self-assessed health over time for women, while the inequalities appeared to narrow for disability and psychological distress for both men and women. Race/ethnicity inequalities in disability widened considerably for men and women, while those of psychological distress declined from 2005 to 2011. Socioeconomic and race/ethnicity health inequalities are present and persistent in California. Trends in health inequalities appear to reflect potential impact of recent financial crisis and legislative changes in California. Consistent measurement and monitoring of health inequalities are needed to develop socioeconomic and health policies that address health inequalities in California.
La aplicación de la teoría de Piaget sobre desarrollo cognitivo a la educación

(1981). La aplicacion de la teoria de Piaget sobre desarrollo cognitivo a la educacion. Journal for the Study of Education and Development: Vol. 4, Monografia Number 2: PIAGET, pp. 144-162.
2009–2010 Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Coverage Among College Students From 8 Universities in North Carolina

Abstract Objective: The authors sought to describe the 2009–2010 seasonal influenza vaccine coverage of college students. Participants: A total of 4,090 college students from 8 North Carolina universities participated in a confidential, Web-based survey in October–November 2009. Methods: Associations between self-reported 2009–2010 seasonal influenza vaccination and demographic characteristics, campus activities, parental education, and e-mail usage were assessed by bivariate analyses and by a mixed-effects model adjusting for clustering by university. Results: Overall, 20% of students (range 14%–30% by university) reported receiving 2009–2010 seasonal influenza vaccine. Being a freshman, attending a private university, having a college-educated parent, and participating in academic clubs/honor societies predicted receipt of influenza vaccine in the mixed-effects model. Conclusions: The self-reported 2009–2010 influenza vaccine coverage was one-quarter of the 2020 Healthy People goal (80%) for healthy per...
The Bicarbonate Ion in Solid Solution in Alkali Halides: An Optical Filter at 10.6 μm

When single impurity ions go into solid solution in alkali halide crystals, very narrow absorption bands appear in the infrared spectra of these materials. These narrow bands arise from the isolation of the individual impurity ions in the crystal lattice. Such bands have a bandwidth of 2 to 6 cm−1 at room temperature and 0.5 to 2.0 cm−1 at liquid nitrogen temperature. The frequency of the band shifts 2 to 4 cm−1 higher at liquid nitrogen temperature.
Steady‐state diffusion of point defects in the interaction force field

The diffusion equation including the drift term due to the long-range interaction between a point defect and a spherical sink is solved numerically for the steady-state concentration of point defects. The effective capture radius of a sink is calculated from the flux integral of point defects, and the biased flux of interstitials over vacancies to an infinitesimal dislocation loop is obtained from the effective capture radii. Effects of temperature, point defect parameters, and elastic properties of the medium on the kinetics of vacancy-inter-stitial recombination and of dislocation loop growth are discussed. Die Differentialgleichung fur Driftdiffusion wird nulnerisch gelost und die stationare Punktfehlerkonzentration fur den Fall langreichweitiger Wechselwirkung zwischen Punktfehlern und einer spharischen Senke bestimmt. Der effektive Einfangradius wird aus dem integralen Punktfehlerstrom berechnet. Insbesondere wird der Strom von Zwischengitteratomen und Leerstellen zu einer infinitesimalen Versetzungsschleife bestimmt. Es wird der Einflus der Temperatur, der Punktfehlerparameter und der elastischen Eigenschaften des Mediums auf die Rekombination und auf die Wachstumskinetik der Versetzungsschleife diskutiert.
Electron Densities for Homonuclear Diatomic Molecules from the Thomas-Fermi-Dirac Theory

Electron densities are calculated from approximate solutions to the Thomas-Fermi-Dirac equation for homonuclear diatomic molecules. The accuracy of expectation values calculated from these densities is assessed. In general, one obtains fair agreement with self-consistent-field and experimental results, but this is insufficient when a property is a difference between electronic and nuclear contributions. An important example is the Hellmann-Feynman force on a nucleus, the net force necessarily being repulsive, as for closed-shell atoms. Forc and energy results for such a situation are compared with experiment. Finally, it is shown that a modified theory, previously applied to atoms, gives improvement in expectation values depending on the electron density near the nuclei.
Fresh frozen plasma and platelet transfusion for nonbleeding patients in the intensive care unit: benefit or harm?

Objective:Whereas restrictive red cell transfusion has become a standard of care for the critically ill, evidenced-based indications for use of other blood components such as fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelet transfusions are limited. We searched the National Library of Medicine PubMed database
On-Line Estimation of Molecular Orientation in Polypropylene Fibers Using Polarized Raman Spectroscopy

Polarized Raman spectra obtained at different points along the spin line during pilot-scale melt spinning of polypropylene fibers are presented for the first time. Measurements of the 841/809 cm-1 band intensity ratio for these fibers with varying draw are made and shown to correlate with birefringence. The effect of sample throughput and take-up velocity on real-time polarized Raman spectra of these fibers is also discussed. On the basis of the results obtained it is confirmed that the ratio of the 841/809 cm-1 band intensities can be used to estimate the molecular orientation in polypropylene fibers.
A 0.4-to-3GHz digital PLL with supply-noise cancellation using deterministic background calibration

Digital phase-locked loops (DPLLs) have recently emerged as a viable alternative to classical charge-pump analog PLLs [1–4]. By obviating the need for a large loop filter capacitor and a high-performance charge pump, DPLLs offer area savings and easier scalability to newer processes. The ability to reconfigure the digital loop filter dynamically offers flexibility in setting the loop response and helps to optimize the locking behavior of the DPLL [1]. However, conflicting bandwidth requirements to simultaneously suppress TDC quantization error and oscillator phase noise mandate either a high-resolution TDC or a low-noise oscillator to minimize jitter [2]. Further, much like in an analog PLL, the ring oscillator is susceptible to supply noise, which especially limits the jitter performance of a DPLL integrated into a large digital system. A low-dropout regulator is commonly used to shield the DCO from supply noise at the expense of additional area, power, and voltage headroom [3]. Alternatively, an open-loop supply-noise cancellation scheme can operate at a lower supply voltage, but its accuracy is highly sensitive to process variations [5]. Analog foreground calibration compensates for process variation but is susceptible to voltage, temperature, and frequency variations [6]. In this paper, we present a deterministic test-signal-based background calibration scheme that leverages the highly digital nature of the DPLL to adaptively cancel the supply noise in the DCO. The prototype DPLL achieves nearly perfect supply-noise cancellation over an output frequency range of 0.4 to 3GHz while consuming 2.65mW at 1.5GHz.
Some political determinants of economic growth: Theory and empirical implications

Abstract This work studies the effects of the political environs on economic growth. The theoretical result from a mathematical model suggests that regime instability, political polarization, and government repression all have a negative impact on economic growth. A cross-sectional analysis of 88 countries over the period of 1974–1990 provides preliminary confirmation of three implications derived from the theoretical model.
Management of hypertension in the setting of acute ischemic stroke.

The optimal management of blood pressure in the first 24 hours of ischemic stroke remains a controversial topic. Most patients are hypertensive at presentation and subsequently experience a spontaneous decline in blood pressure. Decreasing penumbral blood flow and exacerbating vasogenic edema are significant concerns in whether to treat blood pressure elevations. Although an initially elevated blood pressure has been associated with poor outcome, attempts to acutely lower blood pressure are also associated with worsened outcomes. Thus, the current approach in acute ischemic stroke is permissive hypertension, in which antihypertensive treatment is warranted in patients with systolic blood pressure greater than 220 mm Hg, receiving thrombolytic therapy, or with concomitant medical issues. The use of predictable and titratable medications that judiciously reduce (∼ 10% to 15%) the initial presenting mean arterial pressure is recommended in these situations. Future study must define optimal blood pressure goals, likely on an individual basis.
Uptake and Fate of Ascorbic Acid‐2‐Phosphate in Infiltrated Fruit and Vegetable Tissue

Ascorbic acid-2-phosphate (AAP) and ascorbic acid (AA) were infiltrated into apple and potato tissue to control browning. Apple tissue absorbed more AAP and AA than potato under similar conditions. AAP hydrolysis by endogenous acid phosphatase (APase) yielded AA which accumulated or became oxidized to dehydroascorbic acid, depending on the rate of hydrolysis and browning tendencies of samples. APase activity varied greatly with commodity, method of sample preparation and sample pH. Variation in the ability of AAP to inhibit browning in different products could be explained by these factors.
Preparation of Long-Chain Poly(Methylphenylsilane)

Abstract A long chain poly(methylphenylsilane) has been synthesized and characterized It is shown to be of high molecular weight and to have appreciable solubility in common solvents.
Dietary urea for dairy cattle IV. effect on reproductive hormones

Abstract Effects of continuous free-choice feeding of urea in blended rations on reproductive hormones were compared during three consecutive reproductive periods. Urea nitrogen replaced plant nitrogen as follows for Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively: 0, 22 and 45% from insemination to mid pregnancy, 0, 8 and 16% thereafter until 2 weeks before first calving, and 0, 18 and 36% precalving and during lactations. Dietary urea was consistently associated with significantly increased progesterone in blood plasma at all periods. In contrast, estrogen was significantly lower in urine of Group 3 during Days 1 to 18 after first insemination as heifers, but not at second calving or during Days 1 to 18 after insemination for third pregnancy. Plasma estrogen was significantly lower in Group 3 than Group 1 only during the first pregnancy. Group 2 was intermediate. Length of first gestation was subnormal in Groups 1 and 2. It was concluded that dietary urea caused differences in reproductive hormones which were improtant only during the first pregnancy as heifers.
Mitochondrial DNA Variation and the Evolution of Robertsonian Chromosomal Races of House Mice, Mus Domesticus

The house mouse, Mus domesticus, includes many distinct Robertsonian (Rb) chromosomal races with diploid numbers from 2n = 22 to 2n = 38. Although these races are highly differentiated karyotypically, they are otherwise indistinguishable from standard karyotype (i.e., 2n = 40) mice, and consequently their evolutionary histories are not well understood. We have examined mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence variation from the control region and the ND3 gene region among 56 M. domesticus from Western Europe, including 15 Rb populations and 13 standard karyotype populations, and two individuals of the sister species, Mus musculus. mtDNA exhibited an average sequence divergence of 0.84% within M. domesticus and 3.4% between M. domesticus and M. musculus. The transition/transversion bias for the regions sequenced is 5.7:1, and the overall rate of sequence evolution is approximately 10% divergence per million years. The amount of mtDNA variation was as great among different Rb races as among different populations of standard karyotype mice, suggesting that different Rb races do not derive from a single recent maternal lineage. Phylogenetic analysis of the mtDNA sequences resulted in a parsimony tree which contained six major clades. Each of these clades contained both Rb and standard karyotype mice, consistent with the hypothesis that Rb races have arisen independently multiple times. Discordance between phylogeny and geography was attributable to ancestral polymorphism as a consequence of the recent colonization of Western Europe by mice. Two major mtDNA lineages were geographically localized and contained both Rb and standard karyotype mice. The age of these lineages suggests that mice have moved into Europe only within the last 10,000 years and that Rb populations in different geographic regions arose during this time.