cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Control of experimental contact sensitivity.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses controls operative in the expression of experimental contact sensitivity. The events leading to contact sensitivity, including the essential reactivity of the antigen with self molecules, the involvement of Langerhans cells of the skin, and the eventual development of effector T lymphocytes are presented. The chapter focuses on several mechanisms influencing the extent of a sensitivity response. Controlling factors include (1) route and amount of antigen presentation, which to a great degree determine whether sensitization or tolerance will develop, (2) production of soluble suppressor substances that may accompany tolerogenic regimes of antigen administration, (3) formation of inhibitory antiidiotypic antibodies, and (4) development of T suppressor cells. These multiple regulatory mechanisms operating in contact sensitivity are quite similar to those involved in other cellular immune responses as well as in humoral responses and are in keeping with the general elaborate regulation controlling immunity. The chapter describes the regulatory and suppressive mechanisms that control the induction, magnitude, expression, or duration of the contact allergic reaction. Experimental contact sensitivity is a highly regulated immune response. Sensitization depends upon application of reactive antigens that couple covalently to self tissues.
Sodium-induced efflux of calcium from brain microsomes. Biphasic effect of sulphydryl reagents.

— 1 A microsomal preparation from rat brain accumulated 45Ca in the presence of ATP. The uptake of calcium was associated with a corresponding uptake of 32P from [γ-32P]ATP, with a 32P:45Ca molar ratio of about 0·65. 2 Microsomes that were first loaded with 46Ca lost radioactivity during a subsequent incubation in the absence of ATP; efflux of previously accumulated 32P (from ATP) corresponded with the calcium efflux. By contrast, the uptake of 14C from [8-14C]ATP was far less than of 32P, and the efflux did not follow calcium efflux. Thus the movement of 32P probably represented the phosphate anion in association with calcium. Calcium efflux diminished with increasing pH up to 8·6. 3 Sodium specifically increased the rate of efflux of previously accumulated calcium. This sodium-induced efflux was associated with a corresponding efflux of 32P (from ATP) and had a pH optimum near 7·8. It was not accompanied by a change in the amount of retained adenine nucleotides nor in the pattern of ATP metabolites, and was unaffected by ouabain or oligomycin. 4 Low concentrations of certain sulphydryl inhibitors blocked the sodium-stimulated efflux with little effect either on efflux in the absence of sodium or on 45Ca accumulation. 5 Higher concentrations of these inhibitors, associated with an increase binding of the reagent, caused a generalized efflux of 45Ca and an inhibition of accumulation. The lipid solubility of a series of mercurial reagents corresponded with efficacy in promoting efflux; this suggested that this second class of reactive sites lay within a lipoidal permeability barrier.
High-speed quantitative karyotyping by flow microfluorometry.

We describe a new flow-system technique for highspeed quantitative karyotyping. Metaphase chromosomes are isolated from cells, stained with a DNA-specific fluorochrome, and individually measured for stain content at rates up to 105/min in a flow microfluorometer. The resulting distribution contains quantitative information about the relative frequency of occurrence and the chromosomal DNA content of the measured chromosomes. Such analyses of Chinese hamster chromosomes are in good agreement with independent results from scanning cytophotometry and with cytogenetic observations of the banded chromosomes. Analyses of two karyotypicaliy different clones of Chinese hamster M3-1 lines provide the quantitative characterization of two stable translocations. Initial data on human chromosomes are presented and agree well with results of scanning cytophotometry and suggest potential clinical applications as preparative and instrumental techniques improve.
Ventromedial hypothalamus modulates fat mobilisation during fasting

THE weight of adipose tissue is regulated by both hormonal and neural mechanisms1,2. The sympathetic nerve fibres which innervate adipose tissue3 enhance lipolysis when stimulated4,5. Denervation, on the other hand, slows the rate of fatty acid mobilisation during fasting6,7 and complete exclusion of the sympathetic nervous system is followed by an increase in weight8. The possibility that the medial or lateral hypothalamus (LH) is involved in modulating the sympathetic innervation to fat tissue has been suggested by the discovery that bilateral injury to the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) attenuated fatty acid mobilisation after stress9. If either of these hypothalamic areas were involved in regulating lipolysis, then unilateral denervation of the abdominal adipose tissue might produce effects qualitatively similar to unilateral hypothalamic injury. We have tested this hypothesis and report here that unilateral abdominal sympathectomy or an ipsilateral ventromedial hypothalamic lesion impairs lipolysis during fasting but that a lateral hypothalamic lesion is without effect.
The galactic halo.

Galactic halo origin and evolution postulated from chemical evolution assuming stellar evolution details
Pellucid marginal degeneration with superior corneal thinning

PURPOSE: Pellucid marginal degeneration is a noninflammatory thinning disorder typically involving the inferior cornea. We describe a patient with superior corneal thinning similar to classic pellucid marginal degeneration. METHODS: An 80-year-old man was evaluated for high astigmatism. RESULTS: The right superior cornea had a prominent band of thinning with ectasia. Both inferior corneas had characteristic zones of thinning without inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: Superior pellucid marginal corneal degeneration should be considered in the differential diagnosis of superior corneal ectatic disorders.
Distribution of GSH and GSH cycle enzymes in black sea bass (Centropristis striata)

Abstract 1. 1. Tissue extracts were prepared from black sea bass kidney, liver, brain, red blood cells and muscle; each of the extracts was analyzed for the following glutathione (GSH)-dependent enzyme activities: Se-dependent and Se-independent GSH-peroxidases, GSH reductase, γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase, GSH-S-transferase and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase. 2. 2. Each of the black sea bass tissues possessed an active complement of GSH-metabolizing enzymes in a relative distribution similar to that reported for other species including mammals. 3. 3. Tissue GSH concentrations were of the same magnitude as those reported for mammalian tissues.
German intelligence: Religious revival in Soviet territory

(1977). German intelligence: Religious revival in Soviet territory. Religion in Communist Lands: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 27-30.
Cell culture modeling to test therapies against hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress and injury.

The concept that oxidative stress is a key mediator of nerve injury in diabetes has led us to design therapies that target oxidative stress mechanisms. Using an in vitro model of glucose-treated dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in culture, we can examine both free radical generation, using fluorimetric probes for reactive oxygen species, and cell death via the TUNEL assay. The cell culture system is scaled down to a 96-well plate format, and so is well suited to high-throughput screening. In the present study, we test the ability of three drugs, nicotinamide, allopurinol, and α-lipoic acid, alone and in combination to prevent DRG neuron oxidative stress and cell death. This combination of drugs is currently in clinical trial in type 1 diabetic patients. We demonstrate independent effects on oxidative stress and neuronal survival for the three drugs, and neuronal protection using the three drugs in combination. The data strengthen the rationale for the current clinical trial. In addition, we describe an ...
Conservation laws and the numerical solution of ODEs, II

Abstract Many physical systems described by an initial-value problem for a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) conserve physical quantities, such as the net charge or total energy, as the system evolves. Typical codes for the numerical solution of the ODEs will not conserve these quantities, and this can lead to solutions which are not even qualitatively correct. One way to impose conservation laws is to perturb the numerical solution at each step of the integration. A simple theory is developed in this paper which tells how this should be done so as to guarantee convergence of codes based on one-step methods. It is also easy to interpret the effect on the accuracy of the perturbations.
On the hydrodynamic interaction of two spheres oscillating in a viscous fluid. — I. Axisymmetrical case

This paper deals with the problem of the viscous flow induced by two spheres oscillating in a direction parallel to their central line. The effect of the hydrodynamic interaction of the spheres on the steady streaming has been studied analytically at high frequency by the method of matched asymptotic expansions. It has been found the structure of the steady streaming and the forces acting on the spheres in this complicated flow, depending on the values of the parameters of the problem. Typical flow fields and forces acting on the spheres are shown graphically.
Ubiquitin-Dependent Lysosomal Membrane Protein Sorting and Degradation

As an essential organelle in the cell, the lysosome is responsible for digestion and recycling of intracellular components, storage of nutrients, and pH homeostasis. The lysosome is enclosed by a special membrane to maintain its integrity, and nutrients are transported across the membrane by numerous transporters. Despite their importance in maintaining nutrient homeostasis and regulating signaling pathways, little is known about how lysosomal membrane protein lifetimes are regulated. We identified a yeast vacuolar amino acid transporter, Ypq1, that is selectively sorted and degraded in the vacuolar lumen following lysine withdrawal. This selective degradation process requires a vacuole anchored ubiquitin ligase (VAcUL-1) complex composed of Rsp5 and Ssh4. We propose that after ubiquitination, Ypq1 is selectively sorted into an intermediate compartment. The ESCRT machinery is then recruited to sort the ubiquitinated Ypq1 into intraluminal vesicles (ILVs). Finally, the compartment fuses with the vacuole and delivers ILVs into the lumen for degradation.
Staining algal pyrenoids with carmine after fixation in an acidified hypochlorite solution.

Pyrenoids but not nucleoli are clearly stained with propionocarmine after a special fixation. The pyrenoid is distinguished as the largest dark purple, intracellular body that stains homogeneously. The general procedure is as follows: unicells and filaments are collected by centrifugation and any liquid discarded; cells are fixed 5 rain in a mixture of 10 volumes of 50% ethanol, 10 of concentrated HC1, and 5 of Clorox; washed in 95% ethanol 3 times or more to remove all chlorophyll and fixative; mordanted for 5 min with a suitably adjusted concentration of ferric propionate in 50% propionic acid (reddish orange in color); stained 5 min in 0.5% carmine in 50% propionic acid heated in a boiling water bath. The material is mounted in 50% propionic acid. The results are reproducible when material is processed in centrifuge tubes and when the optimum time in the mordant and stain is determined for a particular species and then repeated accurately. This technique was successful in staining pyrenoids of all of t...
Electronic and vibrational spectra of two-dimensional quasicrystals

The tight-binding electronic structure of two-dimensional quasicrystals is studied numerically for three patterns of Penrose tiling with up to 426 vertices. According to the range of interactions, three different models are considered. For the simplest model, two different interactions are assigned to long and short edges of the Penrose tile. Energy spectra show several significant gaps whose width and position depend on the relative strength of the interactions. The cumulative density of states is linear in energy at the band edge, indicating the existence of the Van Hove singularities. The energy spectra for other models show similar band gaps and singularities, though the density of states is asymmetric. Participation ratios are examined. When the relative strength of interactions becomes small, significant numbers of states become localized. Lattice vibration perpendicular to the plane is studied in the harmonic approximation for the simplest model. The vibrational spectra show gaps and singularities similar to the electronic spectra.
Traumatic arteriovenous fistula 52 years after injury

Untreated traumatic arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) have been associated with aneurysmal dilatation of the involved artery and vein, congestive heart failure, and limb ischemia. Open surgical repair of these lesions can be challenging due to the elevated venous pressure and surrounding inflammation. This case report describes a hybrid open and endovascular approach to treatment of a traumatic AVF in the right groin, presenting with aneurysmal ileo-femoral arteries and veins and pulmonary hypertension. It provides a rare look at the natural history of a traumatic AVF over 50 years following the initial injury.
PQ benchmarking in the Era of the Smart Grid

This paper presents the need for improved PQ benchmarking in advance of the changes portended by the so-called Smart Grid as well as from new and changing loads. It also presents a summary of the key phenomena to be studied and a basic approach for summarizing these phenomena. Finally, it highlights current and voltage harmonics as a key area of interest due to field observations.
Evaluation of strengthening through laboratory testing of FRP rehabilitated bridge decks after in-service loading

Abstract This paper provides details of an investigation into strengthening efficiency of FRP rehabilitated bridge deck slabs through tests conducted on slab sections cut from a bridge just prior to demolition. Thus the deck sections (one unstrengthened, and two strengthened using FRP composites) were subjected to routine traffic prior to removal and testing. A systems identification technique was used to match the response of the finite element model with that of the test specimen obtained through forced vibration based dynamic modal tests. Available analytical models and design guidelines were used to predict the response and capacity of such field representative specimens. The test results validated the efficacy of FRP strengthening as a means of life extension and demonstrate the feasibility of rehabilitation for two different modes of intended response. The predictions were found to closely match the actual response of the test specimens. The use of infrared (IR) thermography as a tool for damage/defect detection as well as in monitoring the progression of damage was also demonstrated. Finally, the equivalent capacity of the bridge deck slabs was computed based on a local–global modeling approach.
Novel Technique of Renal Entrapment for Morcellation

ABSTRACTPurpose: Renal entrapment for morcellation can be a difficult task, often necessitating additional port placement and awkward maneuvering as well as concern with specimen sack breakage. We describe a novel technique that combines the best features of existing technology to allow easy entrapment and safe morcellation.Materials and Methods: We combined a 15 mm. EndoCatch II (United States Surgical Corp., Norwalk, Connecticut) introducer and frame with an 8 × 10-inch LapSac (Cook Urological, Spencer, Indiana) to facilitate entrapment with a strong reliable specimen sack. The LapSac is sutured in place onto the frame of the EndoCatch device with 3-zero sutures. The device is then rearmed and lubricated prior to introduction.Results: The described modification greatly enhances our ability more rapidly and easily to entrap nephrectomy specimens prior to tissue morcellation. No additional ports are needed and no morbidity has resulted from the use of the modified entrapment device. Introduction and deplo...
Short segment involvement of the common bile duct in pancreatic carcinoma

Short segment involvement of the midportion of the common bile duct by pancreatic carcinoma is common. It is generally not appreciated on transhepatic cholangiograms or during percutaneous drainage procedures since the uninvolved distal duct is rarely opacified. This pattern helps explain the ease of passing guidewires beyond the initial point of obstruction during drainage procedures. Knowledge of this anatomy may also have diagnostic and therapeutic significance. In some situations a special effort to opacify the distal duct may be warranted.
Functional identification of the promoter of SLC4A5 , a gene associated with cardiovascular and metabolic phenotypes in the HERITAGE Family Study

The sodium bicarbonate cotransporter gene SLC4A5, associated earlier with cardiovascular phenotypes, was tested for associations in the HERITAGE Family Study, and possible mechanisms were investigated. Twelve tag-single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) covering the SLC4A5 gene were analyzed in 276 Black and 503 White healthy, sedentary subjects. Associations were tested using a variance components-based (QTDT) method with data adjusted for age, sex and body size. In Whites, rs6731545 and rs7571842 were significantly associated with resting and submaximal exercise pulse pressure (PP) (0.0004 <P<0.0007 and 0.002<P<0.003 respectively). Additionally, rs6731545 was associated with submaximal-exercise systolic blood pressure (SBP) and rate pressure product (P=0.002, both). New associations between rs6731545 and submaximal-exercise VO2 (P=0.003), rs7587117 and rs7571842 and VCO2 (0.0005<P<0.0009) and rs828853 and VE (P=0.002) were found. All these associations had a FDR<0.05. Single-marker associations were confirmed in haplotype analyses. Using in silico analysis, evidence was found for a main and an alternative promoter for SLC4A5. Specific promoter activity was experimentally confirmed using reporter constructs targeting both promoters in three physiologically relevant cell lines. Re-sequencing of 32 individuals having opposite homozygotes for rs7571842 and rs6731545 and exhibiting significantly different phenotypes showed no SNPs in the alternative promoter and no differences between the groups with SNPs in the main promoter. Also, of all known SLC4A5-coding SNPs, only one synonymous SNP was detected. Summarizing, the observed associations with resting and submaximal-exercise cardiovascular and metabolic traits in the HERITAGE Family Study are likely due to neither variation in the promoter nor known coding SNPs of SLC4A5.
SIGNIFICANCE AND SUBSTANCE: AN EXAMINATION OF EXPERIMENTAL EFFECTS

The dimension of obtained effect size (OES) was examined in this report. The 1977 volumes of Communication Monographs, Human Communication Research, and the Journal of Communication were reviewed, and a comparison of OES magnitude, reporting, and interpretation was conducted. Additional data gleaned from the 1975, 1976, and 1978 volumes of Human Communication Research were also included. The magnitude of experimental effects was relatively high in Communication Monographs and Human Communication Research. The number of authors reporting OES was most pronounced in Human Communication Research. The role of OES in relation to significance was discussed, and some recommendations for the reporting of data were advanced.
Intussusception with incarceration of a cystadenoma of the appendix: Case report and review of the complications of appendiceal adenomas

Fifty benign epithelial neoplasms were encountered during the examination of more than 30,000 appendectomy specimens in the Laboratory of Surgical Pathology, Columbia University. In 44 cases, the neoplasms were papillary cystadenomas; in 11 of these cases, there were complications, all thought to have been caused by abnormal accumulations of mucus. We have reported a unique case of an incarcerated intussusception, and attempted to explain the pathogenesis of this unusual complication. We have also summarized the existing medical literature on the subject of intussusception of adenomatous lesions of the appendix.
Effect of contrast on CFF and apparent brightness.

Critical flicker frequency and apparent brightness of a foveal test field were determined as functions of the luminance of an adjacent inducing field. Apparent brightness measurements were obtained by a binocular comparison method. Inducing luminance was varied through a range of 4.4 log units at each of three test-luminance levels: 0.55, 1.57 and 2.47 log ft-L. The apparent brightness of the intermittent test field, determined at the flicker-fusion threshold, continuously decreased as inducing luminance was raised. CFF, on the other hand, varied in a complex manner: increasing initially, reaching a maximum, and then declining. Over a wide range of inducing luminance, the enhancement of CFF was accompanied by a decrease in apparent brightness. This induced divergence is radically different from the parallel changes in CFF and apparent brightness that occur when test luminance is varied. It was hypothesized that entoptic stray light played a minor role, but that spatial inhibition in the retina could account for both the rise and the fall in CFF as well as the concomitant decrease in apparent brightness.
Database development from spectral mixture analysis for use in biogenic emission models

Abstract A methodology designed to generate a spatial data layer which can be used as input to a forest biogenic emission model is described. A geographic information system was utilized to integrate forest inventory data of varying spatial resolutions including field assessments of forest species composition, color infrared aerial photography, Landsat Thematic Mapper Imagery, and Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer imagery These data were used to calibrate a series of least squares linear mixture models capable of generating detailed information describing the spatial distribution of eight forest species group cover types within a three state study site encompassing North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, USA.
Analysis of a New All-Inside Versus Inside-Out Technique for Repairing Radial Meniscal Tears

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare gap formation, strength, and stiffness of repaired radial tears of the meniscus treated using a new all-inside technique versus a traditional inside-out suture technique. Methods Radial tears were created in 36 fresh-frozen porcine menisci. Repairs were performed using a novel all-inside suture-based meniscal repair device or an inside-out technique. The repairs were tested for cyclic loading and load to failure. The displacement, response to cyclic loading (100, 300, and 500 cycles), and mode of failure were recorded, and the construct's stiffness was calculated. Results The all-inside repairs using the novel device resulted in a significantly lower displacement (gap formation) after 100, 300, and 500 cycles ( P = .002, P = .001, and P = .001, respectively). The ultimate load to failure was significantly greater for the all-inside repairs (111.61 N v 95.01 N; P = .03). The all-inside repairs showed greater stiffness (14.53 N/mm v 11.19 N/mm; P = .02). The all-inside repairs failed most often by suture breakage (suture failure). The inside-out repairs failed most commonly when the suture pulled through the tissue (tissue failure) ( P Conclusions For repair of radial tears of the meniscus, the vertical suture configuration created by the all-inside technique resulted in lower displacement, higher load to failure, and greater stiffness compared with the horizontal inside-out technique. Clinical Relevance In a porcine specimen meniscus repair model, the biomechanical properties of a vertical all-inside technique were superior to that of a horizontal inside-out technique. Future studies of biomechanical and clinical outcomes in human meniscal repairs with this device are warranted to explore whether this repair method is valuable to clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Stem cell research has only just begun.

It is true that no adult stem cell has yet been shown to differentiate as effectively as embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into several cell types that show great promise for treating some diseases. However, contrary to some statements in Gretchen Vogel's News Focus article “Can adult stem cells suffice
Beliefs about Language Learning and Their Relationship to the Ability To Integrate Information from Word Parts and Context in Interpreting Novel Kanji Words.

This study explores the relationship between the strategies second language learners use to interpret unfamiliar words in a target language, and their general epistemological beliefs (i.e., beliefs about the nature of knowledge) and beliefs specifically about language learning. More specifically, this study examines how learner beliefs are related to the ability to combine information from word parts and context in interpreting novel semantically semitransparent kanji compounds (i.e., words consisting of 2 or more Chinese characters). Forty-seven English-speaking learners of Japanese completed both a belief questionnaire and a 72-item multiple-choice kanji compounds test. Results indicate modest but statistically significant correlations between (a) belief in the simplicity of knowledge and a tendency to overrely on a single source of information, (b) avoidance of ambiguity and overreliance on kanji clues, and (c) perception of the difficulty of kanji learning and greater use of contextual clues. These findings suggest that language learners' word inference strategies at least partially reflect their beliefs about learning in general and language learning in particular.
From Biostereometrics To The Comprehension Of Form

Biostereometrics transcribes a biological surface into a large sample of coordinate triples for the ordinary points borne there. For measurement of shape, the accidents of this sampling must be eliminated and the transcription replaced by a few geometric descriptors. More of these latter are available for the task of significant morphometric comparison than the literature acknowledges. For instance, the information to be gleaned from each landmark on the surface includes, in addition to the locus itself, at least eight more parameters of the curving surface there. These concisely represent bulges, ridges, sags, and other ordinary features of form by new tensor descriptors which, though wholly different-looking from the biostereometric coordinate record, derive therefrom. In this analysis, growth is distortion of one surface into another, and its natural descriptor, expressing how all loci are growing apart from each other, is the symmetrized derivative of the distortion mapping.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Control of enantiomer migration order in capillary electrophoresis separations using sulfobutyl ether beta-cyclodextrin

Abstract The control of enantiomer migration order in capillary electrophoresis (CE) by use of sulfobutyl ether betacyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) was investigated. At high pH, electroosmotic flow (EOF) dominated and the enantiomer most strongly associated with the anionic cyclodextrin was detected last. At low pH (and reversed polarity), EOF was minimal and SBE-β-CD functioned as a carrier. Under such conditions, the enantiomer migration order for a neutral chiral compound was reversed. Factors involved in optimization (cyclodextrin and organic modifier concentration) were studied. The impact of migration order on quantitation of low levels (below 1%) of one enantiomer in the presence of the other was also investigated. The precision of peak area ratios (minor/major enantiomer) was evaluated for samples of both enantiomers run by each method. The migration of minor before major enantiomer yielded better quantitation precision in each case.
Notes on the asteraceae of the Southeastern United States

Nomenclatural innovations are validated inAster, Chrysopsis, Eupatorium,Gaillardia, Helianthus, Prenanthes, Silphium, andSolidago. The genusChrysopsis is maintained as distinct fromHeterotheca, andHelianthus smithii Heiser is reduced to synonymy underH. microcephalus Torr. & Gray.
Decidability and Essential Undecidability

There are a number of open problems involving the concepts of decidability and essential undecidability . This paper will present solutions to some of these problems. Specifically: (1) Can a decidable theory have an essentially undecidable, axiomatizable extension (with the same constants)? (2) Are all the complete extensions of an undecidable theory ever decidable? We shall show that the answer to both questions is in the affirmative. In answering question (1), the decidable theory for which an essentially undecidable axiomatizable extension will be constructed is the theory of the successor function and a single one-place predicate. It will also be shown that the decidability of this theory is a “best possible” result in the following direction: the theory of either of the common diadic arithmetic functions and a one-place predicate; i.e., of addition and a one-place predicate, or of multiplication and a one-place predicate, is undecidable. Before establishing the main result, it is convenient to give a simple proof that a decidable theory can have an axiomatizable (simply) undecidable extension. This is, of course, an immediate consequence of the main result; but the proof is simple and illustrates the methods that we are going to use in this paper.
Smart Sleeping Policies for Energy Efficient Tracking in Sensor Networks

We study the problem of tracking an object that is moving randomly through a dense network of wireless sensors. We assume that each sensor has a limited range for detecting the presence of the object, and that the network is sufficiently dense so that the sensors cover the area of interest. In order to conserve energy the sensors may be put into a sleep mode with a timer that determines the sleep duration. We assume that a sensor that is asleep cannot be communicated with or woken up. Thus, the sleep duration needs to be determined at the time the sensor goes to sleep based on all the information available to the sensor. The objective is to track the location of the object to within the accuracy of the range of the sensor. However, having sleeping sensors in the network could result in tracking errors, and hence there is a tradeoff between the energy savings and the tracking errors that result from the sleeping actions at the sensors. We consider the design of sleeping policies that optimize this tradeoff.
Retroperitoneoscopic varicocelectomy in children and adolescents.

Abstract Background/Purpose In the pediatric population the failure rate of sclerotherapy for the treatment of varicocele has been reported to be up to 35%. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of retroperitoneoscopic varicocelectomy (RV) in children and adolescents. Methods A total of 97 patients were operated on for left-sided varicocele using the retroperitoneoscopic approach between January 1999 and July 2003. Median age was 12.3 years (range, 6-16 years). A 10-mm subcostal retroperitoneoscopic port was used. The operation was performed through an operative laparoscope according to Palomo's technique, with the mass division of spermatic vessels after bipolar coagulation below the renal vein. Elective conversion to laparoscopic transperitoneal varicocelectomy was performed in cases of difficulties in identifying the vessels. The postoperative follow-up included clinical and ultrasound assessment (range, 6-48 months). Results A total of 17 (17.6%) patients needed elective conversion to laparoscopic transperitoneal varicocelectomy. In RV, the mean operative time was 28 minutes (range, 15-55 minutes), the mean hospital stay was 2 days, persistence rate was 11.2%, and hydrocele occurrence was 6.2%. Conclusions Our results indicate that the RV is an acceptable technique to achieve the high division of the spermatic vessels. The advantage of this anatomic approach is its very low invasiveness.
Assessment of the relationship between Contegra conduit size and early valvar insufficiency.

Background Contegra bovine jugular vein (BJV) conduit results vary widely, and little attention has been directed at assessment of early conduit insufficiency. Conduit insufficiency is graded subjectively, and criteria vary. Several studies have used branch pulmonary artery flow reversal (BPAFR) to define severe conduit insufficiency. BJV valves are larger than human pulmonary valves of similar diameter. We hypothesize that anatomic differences between BJV and human pulmonary valves limit the use of BPAFR in the evaluation of BJV competence. Our purposes were to (1) assess the prevalence of early and 6-month BJV conduit insufficiency in our patients, (2) determine if conduit size affects BJV competence, and (3) determine if BPAFR is a specific discriminator of severe conduit insufficiency. Methods We reviewed 135 BJV conduits. One cardiologist blinded to original reports reviewed postoperative and 6-month echocardiograms. Conduits were grouped by size: group 1, 12 to 14 mm (n = 51), and group 2, 16 to 22 mm (n = 84). Moderate or greater insufficiency was considered clinically significant. Results Early conduit insufficiency was common in group 1 (37%) and rare in group 2 (5%, p p = 0.02). At follow-up, insufficiency worsened in group 1 but was stable in group 2. Conclusions Early conduit insufficiency is common and worsens with follow-up in small BJVs. Conduit insufficiency is limited in larger sizes and remains stable. BJV exhibits BPAFR commonly in the absence of significant conduit insufficiency. BPAFR should not be used as a primary criterion for grading insufficiency in BJV conduits.
Quantification of Benzo[a]pyrene-Guanine Adducts in in vitro Samples by LC Tandem Mass Spectrometry with Stable Isotope Internal Standardization

Abstract Benzo[a]pyrene, after metabolic activation, is known as one of the most potent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that cause a carcinogenic effect. When benzo[a]pyrene is activated by one-electron oxidation to its radical cation, it binds to either the C-8 or N-7 of guanine on DNA and forms depurinated adducts. A sensitive liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method coupled with a stable isotope internal standard was developed for detection and quantitative analysis of benzo[a]pyrene with DNA adducts. In vitro samples were analyzed by our method. The method provides structural confirmation of the adduct, as well as quantitative analysis with accuracy, confidence, isomeric specificity, and precision to measure biologically relevant levels in small sample sizes.
High Resolution Molecular Imaging with Čerenkov-Excited Luminscence Scanned Imaging (ČELSI)

Using high energy x-rays to excite Cerenkov emission in tissue, it is possible to achieve high resolution optical molecular imaging at depths of a few centimeters, while delivering low radiation doses.
Ocean viscosity and climate

[1] The impacts of parameterized lateral ocean viscosity on climate are explored using three 120-year integrations of a fully coupled climate model. Reducing viscosity leads to a generally improved ocean circulation at the expense of increased numerical noise. Five domains are discussed in detail: the equatorial Pacific, where the emergence of tropical instability waves reduces the cold tongue bias; the Southern Ocean, where the Antarctic Circumpolar Current increases its kinetic energy but reduces its transport; the Arctic Ocean, where an improved representation of the Atlantic inflow leads to a better sea-ice distribution; the North Pacific, where the more realistic path of the Kuroshio leads to more realistic temperatures across the midlatitude Pacific; and the northern marginal seas, where stronger boundary currents lead to significantly less sea-ice. Although the ocean circulation and sea-ice distribution improve, the oceanic heat uptake, the poleward heat transport, and the large scale atmospheric circulation are not changed significantly. In particular, the improvements to the equatorial cold tongue did not lead to better representation of tropical precipitation or El Nino.
A Multi-site Validation Trial of Radioactive Seed Localization as an Alternative to Wire Localization

This study aims to validate radioactive seed localization (RSL) as an alternative to wire localization (WL) in the operative excision of nonpalpable breast lesions. Eligible patients were recruited sequentially. A sample of 99 patients treated with WL was compared to the next 383 patients treated with RSL. Margins were considered "negative" if > or =2 mm from in-situ and invasive disease. Pain and convenience scores were recorded on a 10-point scale. Patient characteristics and histology were similar. The lesion and localization device were retrieved in all patients. Margins of the first specimen were negative in 73% of RSL patients, versus 54% of WL patients (p < 0.001). A second operation was required in 8% of RSL patients to achieve negative margins, versus 25% of WL patients (p < 0.001). Pain scores were not statistically different. However, the RSL group had higher convenience scores (p = 0.015). RSL is safe, effective, and compared to WL, reduces the rates of intraoperative re-excision and reoperation for positive margins by 68%. Patient satisfaction is improved with RSL. We strongly favor RSL over WL.
Parallel microgenetic algorithm design for photonic crystal and waveguide structures

We have developed a powerful parallel genetic algorithm design tool for photonic crystal and waveguide structures. The tool employs a small-population-size genetic algorithm (microgenetic algorithm) for global optimization and a two-dimensional finite-difference time-domain method to rigorously design and optimize the performance of photonic devices. We discuss the implementation and performance of this design tool. We demonstrate its application to two photonic devices, a defect taper coupler to connect conventional waveguides and photonic crystal waveguides, and a sharp 90° waveguide bend for low index contrast waveguides.
Feeding response of Aphis pomi, Myzus persicae, and Amphorophora agathonica to phlorizin

Abstract Phlorizin, a phenolic compound present only in the apple genus, Malus , was found to be neutral as a probing stimulus to Aphis pomi , an apple feeder, but was a probing deterrent to the non-apple feeding aphids, Myzus persicae and Amphorophora agathonica . Phlorizin was an ingestion deterrent to all three species although the threshold was lower for A. pomi . Apple can be utilized as a host by A. pomi since it feeds in the phloem which appears not to contain phlorizin.
SPECIALIZATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING ACTIVITIES AMONG UPPER LEVEL EXECUTIVES

The purpose of this paper is to introduce new evidence of the extent to which, and circumstances under which, upper-level executives specialize their environmental scanning activities according to their hierarchical levels and functional areas. Results suggest that neither of these two role variables is closely or consistently related to the focus or overall amount of scanning. Patterns differed across the three industries studied.
The balance of the exclusive economic zone: Navigation, pollution, and compulsory settlement of disputes

This paper analyzes the nature of the balance between coastal state rights to control activities in the exclusive economic zone and the freedoms of all states to use the zone. It explores the difficulties in maintaining that balance and the contribution that compulsory third-party settlement of disputes could make in this regard.
Refraction Seismics with AN Anisotropic Overburden: a Graphical Method of INTERPRETATION*

An analytical expression for the time-distance curve of seismic waves travelling in a medium consisting of intrinsically anisotropic layers with arbitrarily dipping plane interfaces can be given in terms of the “co-ordinates” of the interfaces (length h of the perpendicular from the shotpoint to the interface, strike ν and dip α of the interface) if for each layer the velocity is given as a function of the orientation of the wave normal. The interpretation of the time-distance curve is understood as the inverse process, namely finding an expression for the co-ordinates in terms of some characteristics of the time-distance curve, e.g. intercept times and apparent velocities. In addition, it is useful to know where the “limiting ray”, which is the ray connecting shotpoint and last geophone, enters and leaves a specific layer, for it is only on the medium between these two points that information can be obtained by interpretation. As ray and wave normal do not generally coincide in anisotropic media, the location of these points cannot be calculated from the co-ordinates and the direction of the wave normal without recourse to the functional dependence between the directions of ray and wave normal. An analytical solution of this problem would involve the solution of a number of equations, implicitly containing several parameters. Successive approximation would be rather cumbersome. Instead, a graphical method is proposed which yields all pertinent information without calculation.
Transurethral vaportrode electrovaporization of the prostate: Physical principles, technique, and results

Abstract Objectives This is a study to evaluate technique, efficacy, and safety of a new electrosurgical instrument (Vaportrode) in management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods Forty-two symptomatic BPH patients form the subject of this study. Preoperative and postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), peak flow rates (PFR), postvoid residual urine (PVR), operative details, and complications were recorded in each patient. Baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up data were used for analyses. Results Results reveal that transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate (TUEVP) is a reasonable procedure to treat symptomatic BPH, and at 6 months, this procedure results in 68% reduction in IPSS, 128% improvement in PFR, and 58% reduction in PVR. Even in patients who are in retention prior to TUEVP, at 6 months the IPSS is 7.7, PFR is 20.4 cc/s, and PVR reduces to 130 cc. The procedure is well tolerated without any significant short-term complications. Conclusions The results of this modality in improving the symptoms and PFR in symptomatic BPH patients in the short term appear promising. Advantages over transurethral resection (TUR) of the prostate and laser prostatectomy include familiarity of the transurethral route, lack of need for high-cost laser equipment and fibers, excellent intraoperative hemostasis, lack of bleeding or fluid absorption, and ability to cause a predictable TUR-like prostate defect at the end of the procedure. Further studies involving larger numbers of patients and longer follow-up are warranted to assess further the utility of this procedure.
On the Measurement of Interfirm Power in Channels of Distribution

Based in part on previous research reported in the marketing channels literature, an approach for measuring interfirm power is developed which centers on power's hypothesized sources. Within a dyad...
Geomagnetic excursions and climate change

Rampino argues that although Kent (1982) demonstrated that the intensity of natural remanent magnetism (NRM) in deep-sea sediments is sensitive to changes in sediment type, and hence is not an accurate indicator of the true strength of the geomagnetic field, it does not offer an alternative explanation for the proposed connections between excursions, climate, and orbital parameters. Kent replies by illustrating some of the problems associated with geomagnetic excursions by considering the record of proposed excursions in a single critical core. The large departure from an axial dipole field direction seen in a part of the sample is probably due to a distorted record; the drawing and storage of the sample, which is described, could easily have led to disturbance and distortion of the record.
Incorporating multiple SVMs for automatic image annotation

In this paper, a novel automatic image annotation system is proposed, which integrates two sets of support vector machines (SVMs), namely the multiple instance learning (MIL)-based and global-feature-based SVMs, for annotation. The MIL-based bag features are obtained by applying MIL on the image blocks, where the enhanced diversity density (DD) algorithm and a faster searching algorithm are applied to improve the efficiency and accuracy. They are further input to a set of SVMs for finding the optimum hyperplanes to annotate training images. Similarly, global color and texture features, including color histogram and modified edge histogram, are fed into another set of SVMs for categorizing training images. Consequently, two sets of image features are constructed for each test image and are, respectively, sent to the two sets of SVMs, whose outputs are incorporated by an automatic weight estimation method to obtain the final annotation results. Our proposed annotation approach demonstrates a promising performance for an image database of 12000 general-purpose images from COREL, as compared with some current peer systems in the literature.
Cancer in older men: A gender-based review

Cancer is a common condition of the older male. Risk factors for developing a malignancy include genetic, environmental and life style features. Cancer epidemiology and prognosis differ depending on the age and gender of the population being studied. In the group of men older than 65 years, the most common malignant tumors are prostate, lung, colon and pancreatic cancer. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of the tumor when it is diagnosed, and the decision for therapeutic versus palliative interventions will depend upon the functional status, comorbidity and personal wishes of the patients.
Unearthing the Roots of the Terpenome

Although terpenoid synthases catalyze the most complex reactions in biology, these enzymes appear to play little role in the chemistry of catalysis other than to trigger the ionization and chaperone the conformation of flexible isoprenoid substrates and carbocation intermediates through multistep reaction cascades. Fidelity and promiscuity in this chemistry (whether a terpenoid synthase generates one or several products), depends on the permissiveness of the active site template in chaperoning each step of an isoprenoid coupling or cyclization reaction. Structure-guided mutagenesis studies of terpenoid synthases such as farnesyl diphosphate synthase, 5-epi-aristolochene synthase, and γ-humulene synthase suggest that the vast diversity of terpenoid natural products is rooted in the facile evolution of α-helical folds shared by terpenoid synthases in all forms of life.
Role of Atomic Electronics in f-Element Bond Formation: Bond Energies of Lanthanide and Actinide Oxide Molecules

Metal oxide molecules are of particular interest from both a scientific and technological perspective in view of their elementary nature and role in such processes as high-temperature vaporization....
Management of patients with syncope and cardiac arrhythmias in an emergency department observation unit

Syncope is an ideal condition for the emergency observation setting because of its difficulty in diagnosis, many causes, high liability, and variable diagnostic approaches. Hospital admissions can be averted with appropriate patient selection for a short-term observation period. Atrial fibrillation is a common presenting condition in the emergency department. With aggressive management, the appropriately selected patient can have restoration of sinus rhythm and be safely discharged home.