cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metal plasma immersion ion implantation and deposition (MPIII and D) using a metal plasma electron evaporation source (MPEES)

Abstract This paper describes a new type of metal plasma source for metal plasma immersion ion implantation and deposition (MPIII and D). The source is termed as Metal Plasma Electron Evaporation Source (MPEES). In certain aspect, its operation resembles electron beam evaporation, but the difference is that the electrons in MPEES are generated from the metal vapor plasma. They, in turn, also ionize the metal vapor to obtain the plasma. The system starts with an Ar plasma to evaporate and ionize metal vapor. Once the system is stabilized, Ar is turned off and the metal plasma sustains on its own. Then by combining this metal plasma source with conventional Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation and Deposition (PIII and D), we obtained Metal Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation and Deposition (MPIII and D). Using this system, we have implanted and coated Cr and Ti on test Si samples. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) have shown that Cr and Ti have been implanted into a large area of about 90 cm in diameter. The new technology can be applied to many areas such as in tribology to address wear, corrosion and fatigue issues, and in metallurgy for alloying materials that cannot be obtained using conventional methods. In this paper, we will describe the principle of the plasma source, source design considerations, and MPIII and D system set up and operation. Preliminary test data will also be presented.
The influence of leader-keyman relations on combat crew effectiveness.

The relation between the leader's interpersonal attitudes and the effectiveness of military combat crews is investigated. Two types of leader attitudes are considered: a generalized attitude toward co-workers, derived by asking the S to predict personality test responses of most and least preferred co-workers; and, the leader's sociometric preference for a particular co-worker. Studies with B-29 bomber crews and Army tank crews indicate that psychological distance between accepted leaders and their keymen is related to effective teamwork. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)
Overcoming “aspirin resistance” in MPN

In this issue of Blood , Pascale and colleagues show that biochemical resistance to aspirin in patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) can be reversed by twice-daily dosing.[1][1] The cardiovascular protective effect of aspirin is ascribed to its ability to irreversibly inactivate cyclo-
Near-road air quality monitoring: Factors affecting network design and interpretation of data

The growing number of health studies identifying adverse health effects for populations spending significant amounts of time near large roadways has increased the interest in monitoring air quality in this microenvironment. Designing near-road air monitoring networks or interpreting previously collected near-road monitoring data is essential for transportation system planning, environmental impact assessments, and exposure assessments in health studies. For these applications, care must be taken in determining the pollutants of interest for both air quality and health assessments. In addition, planners and data analysts need to evaluate and understand the potential influence of the roadway type, design, and presence of roadside structures on the potential transport and dispersion of traffic-emitted pollutants on these air quality and health evaluations. This paper summarizes key factors related to the collection and interpretation of near-road air quality data from the perspective of the pollutants of interest and the location of the monitoring sites.
The external heavy atom effect on radiative and radiationless transitions from the benzophenone-sensitized triplet of some perdeuterated and perprotonated aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract The relative quantum yields of the sensitized phosphorescence of perdeuterated and perprotonated naphthalene, phenanthrene and biphenyl have been studied in solvents that contain heavy atoms. It has been found that the quantum yields of the perdeuterated and perprotonated molecules are approximately equal in the presence of a heavy atom solvent. This result may be interpreted as implying that the radiationless rates for these isotopically substituted molecules become essentially equal if the spin-orbit coupling of the singlet and triplet manifolds is substantially increased.
5S RNA AND TRANSFER RNA SYNTHESIS IN GERMINAL VESICLE OOCYTES AND DURING HORMONALLY‐INDUCED MEIOTIC MATURATION OF STARFISH OOCYTES

The incorporation of 3H-guanosine as 3H-GMP into 5S RNA and into transfer RNA (tRNA) was examined in isolated large germinal vesicle oocytes, in isolated mature ootids and during and subsequent to hormonally (l-methyladenine)-induced meiotic maturation in the starfish, Asterias forbesii.Purified soluble RNA1 preparations at each stage were fractionated by electrophoresis on 10% polyacrylamide gels, while high molecular weight RNAs were resolved by subjecting total RNA samples to electrophoresis on 2.4% acrylamide+0.5% agarose gels. The results showed that large germinal vesicle oocytes, containing a single compact nucleolus, synthesize 5S RNA and tRNA as well as the previously-reported (1, 23-26) nucleolar rRNAs. In contrast, during and subsequent to hormonally-induced meiotic maturation, after germinal vesicle braekdown and nucleolar dissolution, the synthesis of 5S RNA and tRNA continues in the absence of detectable high molecular weight rRNA synthesis.
Nanotechnology. Molecules join the assembly line.

Making patterns from molecular building blocks sounds like child's play, but has been surprisingly difficult to do. A new approach to assembling molecules into patterns may ultimately lead to molecule-based devices.
A shock-tube determination of the SiO /A 1 Pi - X 1 Sigma +/ transition moment

The sum of the squares of the electronic transition moments for the A 1 Pi - X 1 Sigma + band system of SiO has been determined from absorption measurements conducted in the reflected-shock region of a shock tube. The test gas was produced by shock-heating a mixture of N2O, SiCl4, and Ar, and the spectra were recorded photographically in the 260-290-nm wavelength range. The values of the sum as a function of internuclear distance between 2.8 and 3.3 Bohr were determined by comparing the measured absorption spectrum with that produced by a line-by-line synthetic-spectrum calculation which accounted for instrumental broadening. The value of the sum so deduced at an internuclear distance of 3.0 Bohr was 1.0 + or - 0.3 atomic units.
Mathematical modeling of a flat-membrane-controlled release device

The closed form solution to a mathematical model of a flat membrane device successfully predicts the release profile of benzoic acid. Physically, the device consists of a given concentration of benzoic acid in octanol (reservoir) bounded by a microporous flat film (Cellgard 2400) with water-filled pores. The prediction shows excellent agreement with the experimentally derived release profile (maximum difference < 10%). Predicted results are obtained from the use of the steady state plus the first term of the transient solution (infinite series) and with the use of the first nonzero eigenvalue.
Conformational and thermodynamic properties of peptide binding to the human S100P protein.

S100P is a member of the S100 subfamily of calcium-binding proteins that are believed to be associated with various diseases, and in particular deregulation of S100P expression has been documented for prostate and breast cancer. Previously, we characterized the effects of metal binding on the conformational properties of S100P and proposed that S100P could function as a Ca2+ conformational switch. In this study we used fluorescence and CD spectroscopies and isothermal titration calorimetry to characterize the target-recognition properties of S100P using a model peptide, melittin. Based on these experimental data we show that S100P and melittin can interact in a Ca2+-dependent and -independent manner. Ca2+-independent binding occurs with low affinity (Kd ≈ 0.2 mM), has a stoichiometry of four melittin molecules per S100P dimer and is presumably driven by favorable electrostatic interactions between the acidic protein and the basic peptide. In contrast, Ca2+-dependent binding of melittin to S100P occurs with high affinity (Kd ≈ 5 μM) has a stoichiometry of two molecules of melittin per S100P dimer, appears to have positive cooperativity, and is driven by hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, Ca2+-dependent S100P-melittin complex formation is accompanied by significant conformational changes: Melittin, otherwise unstructured in solution, adopts a helical conformation upon interaction with Ca2+-S100P. These results support a model for the Ca2+-dependent conformational switch in S100P for functional target recognition.
Waste not, want not: a viral RNA degradation product modulates west nile virus pathogenesis.

In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe , Pijlman et al. define the structure and mechanism of generation of a small viral noncoding RNA present in flavivirus-infected cells that has a marked impact on the fate of infected cells and virulence in vivo.
The capacity value of solar generation in the Western United States

We compare reliability- and capacity factor-based methods of estimating the capacity value of solar power plants. Our results show that solar plants can have long-term capacity values ranging between 46% and 95% of maximum capacity, depending on the solar technology, plant configuration, and location. We also show that the capacity-factor based methods provide reasonable approximations solar capacity values.
A New Method for the Synthesis of Cyclic Ethers

HETEROCYCLIC compounds having four members in the ring are difficult to prepare, and are generally less well known than the 3-, 5- and 6-membered rings of the same type. In the cyclic ethers, for example, oxetanes have been studied relatively little compared to oxiranes and tetrahydrofurans.
Comparison of hamstring lengthening with hamstring lengthening plus transfer for the treatment of flexed knee gait in ambulatory patients with cerebral palsy

Purpose Children with spastic diplegic and hemiplegic cerebral palsy frequently ambulate with flexed knee gait. There has been concern that hamstring lengthening used to treat this problem may weaken hip extension. This study evaluates the primary outcome of hamstring transfer plus lengthening in comparison with traditional hamstring lengthening in treating flexed knee gait in ambulatory patients with cerebral palsy.
Sanfilippo syndrome, type D: a spectrophotometric assay with prenatal diagnostic potential.

Sanfilippo syndrome, type D (MPS IIID), is characterized by moderate physical abnormalities, pro- gressive mental deterioration, and deficient activity of N- acetylglucosamine 6-sulfate sulfatase, a lysosomal hydro- lase involved in the degradation of heparin, keratan sulfate, and heparan sulfate. To date, demonstration of the enzyme deficiency typically relies on a radiolabeled trisaccharide substrate derived from heparan sulfate. In our study, we have developed a spectrophotometric assay for the deter- mination of N-acetylglucosamine 6-sulfate sulfatase activ- ity using the monosaccharide, N-acetylglucosamine 6-sul- fate, as substrate. The reaction mixture was incubated for 6 h at 37°C and, after Dowex chromatography, released N-acetylglucosamine was measured by a modification of the method of Reissig. Assay conditions were optimized for cultured skin fibroblasts and primary cultures of am- niotic fluid cells. The pH optimum for each was 5.5. The assay was linear for 24 h and up to 0.1 absorbance units. Activities of the three known MPS IIID skin fibroblast cell lines were more than 4 SD below the skin fibroblast control mean and more than 5 SD below the control mean for amniotic fluid cells. An enzyme deficiency in cultured amniotic fluid cells of the same magnitude as the skin fibroblasts of the known patients would be detectable and, therefore, prenatal diagnosis by this method is feasible. (Pediatr Res 26:462-466, 1989) Abbreviations
Improved quadratic elements

A general method to formulate improved quadratic elements is presented. Derivation of the method is based on more accurate shape functions that take into account effects of governing differential equations. These new shape functions have the same form as those of the standard eight-node quadratic element. Therefore, they may be easily adapted into existing programs. The new quadratic element is compared with both standard and standard condensed quadratic elements. To show relative merits of different quadratic elements eigenvalue tests are performed. Several examples ranging from field problems, plane stress and bar vibration are used to demonstrate the applicability of this approach.
Fixed points for pairs of mappings in d complete topological spaces

Several important lnetric space fixed point theorems are proved for a lnrge class of non-metric spaces. In some cases the metric space proofs need only minor changes. This is surprising since the distance function used need not be symmetric and need not sa.tisfy the
A non-parametric method for fast joint rate-distortion optimization of motion estimation and DFD coding

Exact joint rate-distortion (RD) optimization of motion estimation and displaced-frame-difference (DFD) signal coding is highly computationally complex. We propose a low-complexity but effective search scheme. Major complexity reduction is achieved by: (1) eliminating suboptimal displacement vector (DV) candidates from joint optimization, and (2) using a dynamic programming algorithm to optimize DFD coding. DV candidate elimination is based on predicting the order of the RD-Lagrange costs. Order prediction is found to be much more reliable than using parametric functions to predict the exact cost values. In comparison with an H.263 test model, with advanced prediction mode enabled, the proposed scheme furnishes up to about 1 dB of PSNR improvement.
Factors that affect the frequency of thioguanine-resistant lymphocytes in mice following exposure to ethylnitrosourea

The frequency of thioguanine(TG)-resistant lymphocytes in mice treated with ethylnitrosourea (ENU) was followed for a period of 51 wk using our clonogenic assay [Jones et al, 1985a,b]. The effects of dose (0-58 mg/kg), time since treatment (2-51 wk), dose rate (5 weekly X 11.7 mg/kg versus 1 X 58 mg/kg), and age at time of treatment (3 vs 15 mo) on the frequency of TG-resistant, concanavalin A-responsive spleen cells were evaluated. The frequencies of TG-resistant spleen cells were generally dose responsive for 51 wk after exposure to ENU. They also were dependent upon the time that had elapsed since treatment with ENU, increasing to maximal values at 10 wk as previously reported [Jones et al, 1985a], and holding essentially stable at values of approximately 20% of the maximum frequency from week 15 until at least week 40 for the 3-month-old mice. Fractionation of 58 mg ENU/kg into 5 weekly doses did not affect the frequency of ENU-induced TG-resistant cells detected in the spleen but did increase the rate of appearance in the spleen, and the efficiency of induction by the unit dose, of TG-resistant cells. The mice exposed to ENU at 15 mo of age appeared to have a 4-fold reduction in the rate of increase in frequency of ENU-induced TG-resistant spleen cells. One set of control mice was found to have a 10-fold elevated frequency of TG-resistant cells in both the spleen and thymus, indicating that mutations can occur in stem cells of untreated animals.
Evasion-resistant network scan detection

Popular network scan detection algorithms operate through evaluating external sources for unusual connection patterns and traffic rates. Research has revealed evasive tactics that enable full circumvention of existing approaches (specifically the widely cited Threshold Random Walk algorithm). To prevent use of these circumvention techniques, we propose a novel approach to network scan detection that evaluates the behavior of internal network nodes, and combine it with other established techniques of scan detection. By itself, our algorithm is an efficient, protocol-agnostic, completely unsupervised method that requires no a priori knowledge of the network being defended beyond which hosts are internal and which hosts are external to the network, and is capable of detecting network scanning attempts regardless of the rate of the scan (working even with connectionless protocols). We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method on both live data from an enterprise-scale network and on simulated scan data, finding a false positive rate of just 0.000034% with respect to the number of inbound flows. When combined with both Threshold Random Walk and simple rate-limiting detection, we achieve an overall detection rate of 94.44%.
Decentralized extended-backstepping control of power systems

In this paper backstepping controller with additive nonlinear damping term is applied for stability enhancement of multi-machine power systems through excitation control. The decentralized control scheme is practical in systems especially when couplings are handled appropriately. Couplings between generators through transmission lines are modeled and considered as external disturbance through each plant. Controller design, extended-backstepping, is based on a recursive technique to obtain stabilizing control via Lyapunov function. Additive nonlinear damping (extended term) is used to counteracts the effect of disturbance. Parameter settings for the controller are obtained with particle swarm optimization technique. Results on 50 machines 145 buses show that extended-backstepping controllers effectively stabilize the system for severe contingencies in comparison with conventional power system stabilizer.
"Near" and "far" in language and perception.

A major interest in cognitive science is the relationship between linguistic and perceptual representations of space. One approach to exploring this relationship has been to investigate aspects of the linguistic encoding of space that correspond closely to aspects of the visual system. Another approach, which does not contradict the first but rather complements it, is to investigate ways in which linguistic and visual representations of space are different. This paper pursues the second approach by arguing that the distinction between proximal and distal demonstratives (e.g. this vs. that, here vs. there) does not correspond to an independently established distinction between near and far space in the visual system but is instead based on language-internal factors. Recent neuropsychological and neurophysiological studies suggest that the brain contains separate mechanisms for representing, on the one hand, near or peripersonal space which extends roughly to the perimeter of arm’s reach and, on the other hand, far or extrapersonal space which expands outward from that boundary. In addition, crosslinguistic research suggests that it is very common for languages to have two basic types of demonstrative terms — proximal and distal. This parallelism raises the possibility that the linguistic distinction may derive from the perceptual distinction. However, several arguments support the contrary view that the two distinctions are independent of one another. A substantial proportion of languages in the world have demonstrative systems that divide space into three or more egocentrically-grounded regions, thereby violating the two-way perceptual contrast. Even more importantly, empirical studies of how demonstratives are used in ongoing discourse in different languages suggest that they do not encode quantitative spatial information such as within vs. beyond arm’s reach; instead, they specify abstract semantic notions that, when combined with the unique pragmatic features of communicative contexts, allow speakers to make a virtually unlimited range of spatial distance contrasts. Thus, demonstratives constitute an interesting case of divergence between linguistic and perceptual representations of space. q 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
A conductive polymer pressure sensor

The authors have characterized the performance of the commercially available Interlink pressure sensor. The sensor costs less than $1. It is 0.25-mm thick, is light and flexible, and can be customized for a wider range of applications. The resistance-versus-pressure characteristic of the sensor is logarithmic. The operating range is from 0 to 2 MPa. The hysteresis is 8% and the nonrepeatability is less than 7% of full scale. The temperature drift is -0.5%/ degrees C of full scale. Using the Interlink sensors and electronics, the authors developed a portable data acquisition system to monitor the pressure under the bony prominences of the feet during normal gait. The advantages and drawbacks of the sensor are indicated. >
The use of leukoreduced red blood cell products is associated with fewer infectious complications in trauma patients.

Abstract Background Clinical studies suggest that leukocytes in banked blood may increase infectious complications after transfusion. However, these investigations included few injured patients. Therefore, the effect of the use of leukoreduced red blood cell (RBC) products in this patient population is unknown. In addition, large numbers of RBC transfusions are frequently required in the treatment of patients with hemorrhagic shock, which may have a more profound effect on infectious risk. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of prestorage leukoreduction on infectious complications in injured patients. Methods A retrospective before-and-after cohort study was conducted at an urban level 1 trauma center. A policy of using leukoreduced RBC products commenced in January 2002. Patients treated from March 2002 through December 2003 received leukoreduced RBC products. Those transfused from March 2000 through December 2001 served as controls. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years, survival ≥2 days after admission, and transfusion of ≥2 U RBCs within 24 hours of admission. There were 240 patients in the leukoreduction group, and 438 patients in the control group. Multivariate logistic regression controlling for age, sex, injury severity, and number of transfusions was used to determine if leukoreduction status was an independent predictor of infectious complications. Subset analysis was performed on patients receiving massive transfusion (ie, >6 units in 24 hours; n = 168). Results Patient demographics and injury severity characteristics were similar during both treatment periods. Overall, those patients receiving leukoreduced RBC products had a 45% reduction in nosocomial pneumonia (odds ratio [OR] .55; 95% confidence interval [CI] .33–.91) and a significant reduction in the development of any type of infection (OR .48; 95% CI .31–.73). In the massive-transfusion subset, the OR for development of any infection was .33 (95% CI, .15–.73), and the OR for the development of pneumonia was .29 (95% CI, .11.76) in those patients receiving leukoreduced RBC products. There were no differences in mortality within the overall- or massive-transfusion subset analyses. Conclusion Prestorage leukoreduction is associated with a reduction of infectious complications in injured patients. Furthermore, this protective effect appears more pronounced in patients receiving massive transfusion (>6 U packed RBCs).
The Independent Production of Culture: A Digital Games Case Study

Throughout the community of game players, developers, and journalists, the term ``independent'' is used in a number of ways to describe a type of development next to, or juxtaposed with, the mainstream process of creating, marketing, distributing, and playing digital games. Yet, this ``independence'' is something quite different from what the literature on independent, alternative, oppositional, radical, or otherwise nonmainstream media tends to suggest or advocate. The contemporary context of game design and development practices throughout the industry forces us to rethink assumptions about independence and autonomy in creative labor, about the communicative practices between media companies across the entire business spectrum of the global media industry, and about diversity or homogeneity in the production of culture. In this article, we aim to articulate more precisely what it means to create, work in, and give meaning to independent computer and video game production.
Extensive introduction to VHDL and PLDs in the sophomore year

As system courses move into the undergraduate curriculum, students must learn earlier how to create designs with hardware description languages (HDLs). A majority of current logic design textbooks, however, contain only supplemental sections on VHDL or Verilog. These sections, if covered by faculty, are usually integrated with the traditional logic design topics. While this methodology may work for some students, a majority can find it difficult to learn both logic design basics and a hardware description language at the same time. This paper describes a more extensive introduction to VHDL and programmable logic devices (PLDs) in the sophomore year through a second logic design course. By having this course early in the curriculum, students have been able to use their knowledge in upper-level microelectronics and systems courses, and have acquired quality internships after their sophomore year.
Input Test Data Volume Reduction for Skewed-Load Tests by Additional Shifting of Scan-In States

Test data compression methods reduce the input test data volume by allowing compressed tests to be stored on a tester. Additional reductions in the input test data volume can be achieved if each stored test is used for producing several different tests. Skewed-load tests create a unique opportunity to expand a stored test into several different skewed-load tests by continuing to shift the scan-in state for one or more additional clock cycles. This opportunity for test data volume reduction beyond test data compression is introduced in this paper. The paper describes a procedure that starts from a given skewed-load test set. The procedure removes tests from the test set and recovers the fault coverage by applying several tests based on every stored test.
White Matter Microstructure and Atypical Visual Orienting in 7-Month-Olds at Risk for Autism

Specific differences in visual orienting, critical in social-cognitive development, are associated with differences in white matter microstructure of the splenium.
Long-term data archiving.

Long term data archiving has much value for chemists, not only to retain access to research and product development records, but also to enable new developments and new discoveries. There are some recent regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11), but good science and good business both benefit regardless. A particular example of the benefits of and need for long term data archiving is the management of data from spectroscopic laboratory instruments. The sheer amount of spectroscopic data is increasing at a scary rate, and the pressures to archive come from the expense to create the data (or recreate it if it is lost) as well as its high information content. The goal of long-term data archiving is to save and organize instrument data files as well as any needed meta data (such as sample ID, LIMS information, operator, date, time, instrument conditions, sample type, excitation details, environmental parameters, etc.). This editorial explores the issues involved in long-term data archiving using the example of Raman spectral databases. There are at present several such databases, including common data format libraries and proprietary libraries. However, such databases and libraries should ultimately satisfy stringent criteria for long term data archiving, including readabilitymore » for long times into the future, robustness to changes in computer hardware and operating systems, and use of public domain data formats. The latter criterion implies the data format should be platform independent and the tools to create the data format should be easily and publicly obtainable or developable. Several examples of attempts at spectral libraries exist, such as the ASTM ANDI format, and the JCAMP-DX format. On the other hand, proprietary library spectra can be exchanged and manipulated using proprietary tools. As the above examples have deficiencies according to the three long term data archiving criteria, Extensible Markup Language (XML; a product of the World Wide Web Consortium, an independent standards body) as a new data interchange tool is being investigated and implemented. In order to facilitate data archiving, Raman data needs calibration as well as some other kinds of data treatment. Figure 1 illustrates schematically the present situation for Raman data calibration in the world-wide Raman spectroscopy community, and presents some of the terminology used.« less
Did contrast nephropathyin RAPPID really occur

Ever since Tepel et al. [(1)][1]first reported that n -acetylcysteine (NAC) was effective in preventing radiocontrast-induced nephropathy (RCIN) in patients undergoing computed tomography, there has been considerable debate regarding the ideal strategy to prevent RCIN. Several studies have suggested
Integrating multipoint remote area x-ray safety monitor☆

Abstract A multiple point remote area safety monitor for X-rays (or gamma radiation) above 50 keV is described. It is designed for use with sources having duty cycles ranging from steady state (e.g. a radioactive source) to a pulse 100 μsec long repeated every 40 sec (e.g. a pulsed X-ray source). Radiation rates from background and dark current equivalent to 0.06 mR/hr to an instantaneous peak of 8 000 000 mR/hr are handled with a departure from linearity of at most 25% at the highest rate. Long term fatigue in the photomultipliers may cause loss of sensitivity at average rates above 36 mR/hr. Peak pulse current limitations in the photomultiplier further reduce the acceptable average rate if the radiation burst duration is less than 100 μsec, repeated every 40 sec, at an average intensity of 20 mR/hr. The radiation is detected by a commercial plastic scintillator and photomultiplier. Output of the photomultiplier is integrated directly by an operational amplifier and polystyrene capacitor. Radiation dose for one day is recorded on a strip chart recorder with a three cycle logarithmic scale from 0.1 to 100 mR.
Liftability of Mod p Cusp Forms of Parallel Weights

We present a vanishing theorem for automorphic line bundles on good reduction bers of PEL-type Shimura varieties (including all noncompact ones). As a consequence, we deduce that for a good prime p no smaller than the dimension of a PEL-type Shimura variety, any mod p cusp form of positive cohomological parallel weight is liftable to characteristic zero.
Nitroimidazoles in the canine prostate, vagina, and urethra

Diffusion of metronidazole and tinidazole in canine prostatic secretion was studied and compared to the diffusion of metronidazole into the canine vagina. This particular comparison was made because prostatic secretion represents an acidic environment in contrast to the canine vagina which has a basic pH. Metronidazole reached significantly higher concentrations in the prostatic secretion (PS) than in plasma (P). No differences were found in the concentrations of tinidazole in P and PS. Plasma and prostatic interstitial fluid (PIF) concentrations of both drugs showed no differences either. However, the PS/P and PIF/P ratios of metronidazole were significantly higher than the corresponding ratios of tinidazole. Metronidazole concentrations in the canine vagina and urethra were significantly lower than the plasma concentrations, possibly because of the basic pH environment. These findings suggest a possible advantage in using metronidazole over tinidazole in aerobic and Trichomonas vaginalis prostatitis and vaginitis in acidic environments. However, clinical studies comparing the two drugs should be carried out in order to establish if this is of clinical importance.
Transparent mullite ceramics from diphasic aerogels by microwave and conventional processings

Transparent mullite ceramics were developed by both microwave and conventional sintering of compacts starting with a diphasic aerogel near 1300°C. Both sintering processes were carried out in air at ambient pressure. The conventionally sintered sample was essentially non-crystalline, whereas the microwave sintered sample was highly crystalline mullite. Using a xerogel of the same composition, no transparency was achieved under the same conditions. The results indicate that the agglomeration-free microstructure of the starting aerogel was the key for achieving the transparency. The achievement of transparent mullite ceramics by microwave processing is attributed to the rapid-heating, accelerated-mullitization, enhanced densification, and limited grain-growth of the diphasic mullite gel in the microwave field.
ISOPARAMETRIC GRADED FINITE ELEMENTS FOR NONHOMOGENEOUS ISOTROPIC AND ORTHOTROPIC MATERIALS

Graded finite elements are presented within the framework of a generalized isoparametric formulation. Such elements possess a spatially varying material property field, e.g. Young's modulus (E) and Poisson's ratio () for isotropic materials; and principal Young's moduli (E11,E22), in-plane shear modulus (G12), and Poisson's ratio (12) for orthotropic materials. To investigate the influence of material property variation, both exponentially and linearly graded materials are considered and compared. Several boundary value problems involving continuously nonhomogeneous isotropic and orthotropic materials are solved, and the performance of graded elements is compared to that of conventional homogeneous elements with reference to analytical solutions. Such solutions are obtained for an orthotropic plate of infinite length and finite width subjected to various loading conditions. The corresponding solutions for an isotropic plate are obtained from those for the orthotropic plate. In general, graded finite elements provide more accurate local stress than conventional homogeneous elements, however, such may not be the case for four-node quadrilateral (Q4) elements. The framework described here can serve as the basis for further investigations such as thermal and dynamic problems in functionally graded materials. ©2002 ASME
Chemical shift of Tl205 and degree of covalency in thallous halide cesium halide solid solutions

Abstract The chemical shift δ of Tl 205 in the solid solutions Tl(Cl-Br), (Tl-Cs)Cl, and (Tl-Cs)Br is investigated as a function of the mole fraction x of TlBr, and Cs X , respectively. In all three systems, an increase of − δ(x) is observed with respect to pure Tl X . The change of δ( x ) is interpreted in terms of a slight change of the small degree of covalent participation in the predominantly ionic bonds between Tl + and the halide ions.
Sensory topography of the oral cavity and the impact of free flap reconstruction: A preliminary study

Background. The purpose of this prospective ran- domized study was to (1) assess the computerized pressure- specific sensorydevice (PSSD) as a tool for measuring oral cavity sensation, (2) establish a topographic sensory map of the oral cavity, and (3) objectively evaluate postoperative sensory recovery of noninnervated oral cavity free flap reconstruction. Methods. Twenty-three healthy control subjects were re- cruited to test four intraoral sites and the volar forearm. Sen- sory scores were evaluated for consistent trends between an established sensory tool, the Semmes Weinstein Monofilament (SWM), and the PSSD. Sensory control values were then com- pared with those of 18 patients who underwent reconstruction of the oral cavity with a noninnervated microvascular free flap. Results. The SWM testing demonstrated the lowest sensory thresholds in the lower lip, followed by the lateral tongue, buccal mucosa, and central tongue. The PSSD also demonstrated the lowest sensory thresholds in the lower lip followed by the lateral tongue; however, the central tongue demonstrated a lower sensory threshold than did the buccal mucosa. The neotongue of patients with noninnervated free flaps demonstrated inferior sensation compared with the native tongue (p < .05). Conclusions. We have established normal sensory values for the oral cavity, skin of the volar forearm, and noninnervated free flap tissue within the oral cavity. Although discrepancies exist between the data derived from the SWM and the PSSD, the PSSD represents a reliable, sensitive, and easy method for assessing sensation of the oral cavity. Furthermore, PSSD testing is not affected by saliva or movement. A 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 884-889, 2004
An Examination of Pre-Purchase Information-Search Tendencies of an Immigrant Population

Abstract Perhaps because immigration is currently one of the most hotly debated issues in America (e.g., Kuttner 2004), there is little appetite, especially lately, in the academic literature for an examination of some of the more serious, but lesser known issues that go along with this key demographic factor. These currently ignored issues nonetheless have serious implications for businesses (Crock 2004), the government (Bernstein et al. 2004), public-policy makers (Magnusson and Kripalani 2003) and social-service providers (Dobbs 2004), among others. One such much ignored, albeit serious issue is that of how immigrants gather information to solve problems (including those of consumption) in their new host culture. This issue has been barely investigated in the academic literature, though anecdotal evidence from the popular press show that it has serious implications for marketers (Vence 2002), public-policy makers (Aldrich and Variyam 2000) and social-service providers (Stewart 1996), among others. Cons...
Extent of peptide cross-linking in the peptidoglycan of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Abstract The extent of peptide cross-linking in peptidoglycan (PG) isolated from various strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was examined. Purified PG, specifically labeled in the peptide moiety with [3H]diaminopimelic acid (DAP) and labeled in the glycan with [14C]glucosamine and [14C]muramic acid, was digested completely with Chalaropsis B muramidase. Gel filtration of the digest on connected columns of Sephadex G-50 and G-25 revealed four well-defined peaks corresponding to soluble PG fragments and containing a constant ratio of 3H to 14C. On the basis of (i) KD values, (ii) amino acid composition, (iii) free amino group analysis of [3H]DAP residues, (iv) borohydride reduction, (v) the β-elimination reaction, (vi) high-voltage electrophoresis, and (vii) paper chromatography in various solvents, the PG fragments were identified as un-cross-linked disaccharide peptide monomer, typical of chemotype I PG, and the corresponding peptide cross-linked dimers, trimers, and tetramers. The percent cross-linking of PG basically reflects the percentage of DAP residues that are involved in peptide cross-linking bonds. This value was estimated from the distribution of labeled fragments that resulted from the enzymatic digestion of PG and was confirmed by the analysis of free amino groups in [3H]DAP of intact PG. Although there were subtle, strain- and medium-dependent differences in percent cross-linking, these values varied only over a relatively narrow range (36 to 44%). The percent cross-linking of PG in the prototype strain, RD5, grown in a standard gonococcal medium (LGCB+) was 41.0 ± 2.0%. This is a relatively high degree of peptide cross-linking for a gram-negative bacterium. We also confirmed previous observations that the extent of PG cross-linking among isogenic gonococci was higher in strains, e.g., FA140 and FA136, carrying loci that govern increased resistance to multiple drugs.
ALIGNING ACCOUNTABILITY AND AWARENESS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE IN OPERATIONS

This study assesses internal drivers of a firm’s level of environmental awareness, including methods for incorporating environmental objectives into the strategic planning of operations, communication of objectives throughout the organization, and deployment of accountability to operating personnel and managers for environmental performance. Challenges firms may encounter in motivating and holding employees and process owners accountable for environmental performance are discussed, as well as a potential for inconsistencies between management’s espoused theories and theories in use. A case study of a steel manufacturer is used to determine how accountability for and awareness of environmental objectives can be operationally implemented.
Quantifying environmental stress-induced emissions of algal isoprene and monoterpenes using laboratory measurements

Abstract. We report here production rates of isoprene and monoterpene compounds (α-pinene, β-pinene, camphene and d-limonene) from six phytoplankton monocultures as a function of irradiance and temperature. Irradiance experiments were carried out for diatom strains (Thalassiosira weissflogii and Thalassiosira pseudonana), prymnesiophyte strains (Pleurochrysis carterae), dinoflagellate strains (Karenia brevis and Prorocentrum minimum), and cryptophyte strains (Rhodomonas salina), while temperature experiments were carried out for diatom strains (Thalassiosira weissflogii and Thalassiosira pseudonana). Phytoplankton species, incubated in a climate-controlled room, were subject to variable light (90 to 900 μmol m−2 s−1) and temperature (18 to 30 °C) regimes. Compared to isoprene, monoterpene emissions were an order of magnitude lower at all light and temperature levels. Emission rates are normalized by cell count and Chlorophyll a (Chl a) content. Diatom strains were the largest emitters, with ~ 2 × 10−17 g(cell)−1h−1 (~ 35 μg (g Chl a)−1 h−1) for isoprene and ~ 5 × 10−19 g (cell)−1 h−1 (~ 1 μg (g Chl a)−1) h−1) for α-pinene. The contribution to the total monoterpene production was ~ 70% from α-pinene, ~ 20% for d-limonene, and 250 μmol m−2 s−1) irradiance. Measurements revealed different patterns for time-averaged emissions rates over two successive days. On the first day, most of the species showed a distinct increase in production rates within the first 4 h while, on the second day, the emission rates were overall higher, but less variable. The data suggest that enhanced amounts of isoprene and monoterpenes are emitted from phytoplankton as a result of perturbations in environmental conditions that cause imbalance in chloroplasts and force primary producers to acclimate physiologically. This relationship could be a valuable tool for development of dynamic ecosystem modeling approaches for global marine isoprene and monoterpene emissions based on phytoplankton physiological responses to a changing environment.
Protective Effect of Combined Allopurinol and Verapamil Given at Reperfusion in Severe Renal Ischemia

This study investigates the role of verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, combined with allopurinol, a xanthine-oxidase inhibitor, when given at reperfusion afer severe renal ischemia injury in the...
Automated highway radar guidance antenna and system testing results

The Ohio State University ElectroScience Laboratory participated along with the Center for Intelligent Transportation Research as one of six teams to demonstrate an automated highway concept at the National Automated Highway Demo at San Diego in August, 1997. The forward looking radar concept which was demonstrated used a FSS highway stripe. This paper begins by describing the (patented) highway stripe and the forward-looking radar guidance concept. The radar system as implemented for automated guidance is described and present measured results on the system antenna array and on the system itself are given. In addition, results of the demonstration in San Diego are discussed. The forward-looking radar guidance concept is intended to be one more application for the wide variety of forward-looking radars which are being investigated by the automobile community. The FSS Highway Stripe provides an inexpensive way to create a strong echo with a unique signature, attached to the highway, so that the forward-looking radar can be used as an all-weather guidance sensor for an automated automobile. The radar used a monopulse guidance architecture. The antenna array used a single transmit horn, and a matched pair of receive horns, all vertically polarized. All three antennas were nestled into the composite front bumper beam. Performance data on the antennas and the steering sensing information are presented. The radar system was a chirp radar covering a frequency spectrum of 10 to 11 GHz. The narrow frequency of the FSS radar stripe occurred at 10.95 GHz, allowing its signature to be distinguished from the return of vehicles and other objects out in front of the vehicle. Radar system measured results in the highway situation are presented.
Research on U.S. Military Women: Recruitment and Retention Challenges and Strategies.

ABSTRACT Objectives: To examine literature on recruitment and retention of military women in research studies as an underrepresented, and potentially marginalized, population. Methods: A literature search was conducted to examine challenges, identify potential barriers and facilitators, and to inform strategies for recruitment and retention of military women in research studies. This search was supplemented by findings in military-specific databases and discussions with Military Women's Health Research Interest Group subject matter experts. Results: Ten articles addressed research recruitment and retention challenges and strategies in marginalized/underrepresented populations, providing an effective context to inform research recruitment and retention in military settings. Research with military women is often challenged by logistical, cultural, social, ethical, and methodological issues, which may hinder exploration of potentially sensitive issues. Discussion: Researchers must consider military-specific ...
Public health consequences of hazardous substance releases.

Information collected on events and public health consequences can indicate trends in temporal and spatial distribution, chemical releases, and morbidity and mortality of emergency events. This knowledge will be useful in training first responders, planning preparedness for such events, and formulation of guidelines and policies. The impact of such training or policies should reduce both the number of events (primary prevention) and the morbidity and mortality associated with these events (secondary prevention). HSEES is the first comprehensive, state-based surveillance system of hazardous substance releases and public health consequences. Successful implementation of the system requires an active, state-based approach that uses multiple data sources and collects information in a consistent format. Good working relationships between agencies are of paramount importance for obtaining notification about events and information for the lengthy data-collection form. The system is more sensitive in recording hazardous substance releases than any existing single national database, as shown through quality-control evaluations in which HSEES data are compared with events reported to other databases. Consistency in data reporting is further evaluated by case studies sent to states on a regular basis. The five states that participated during the first 2 years of surveillance were not randomly selected. However, with additional states participating in HSEES, the representativeness of surveillance data will improve for making national estimates. Language: en
Teaching Mohamedou Ould Slahi's Guantánamo Diary in the Human Rights and Literature Classroom

This essay provides a case study of Slahi's Guantanamo Diary in order to demonstrate how a literary approach to contribute to the study of human rights by both demonstrating the necessity of human rights discourses and the ways in which they must be reconsidered in the current geopolitical moment. More specifically, I argue that reading the book in its larger legal and political context unveils the ideologies that promote torture in the name of state security. And, it offers a rebuttal to those ideologies through a critical analysis of the distribution of legal personhood and literary subjectivity in the context of Guantanamo.