cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Asymmetry of neuroleptic-induced rigidity: development of quantitative methods and clinical correlates.

Abstract Twenty-six medicated schizophrenic patients and 14 normal controls underwent laboratory assessment for the presence and asymmetry of neuroleptic- induced rigidity to evaluate the sensitivity, reliability, and validity of a quantitative procedure. Measures of muscle stiffness were made in the upper extremeties. Results indicated that 65% of the patients exhibited pathological rigidity. Moreover, 76% of these patients exhibited asymmetric rigidity, while the remaining 24% exhibited bilateral symptoms. Newly treated patients exhibited a greater laterality of rigidity toward the right side compared with patients who were on stable treatment regimens for at least 3 months. Since parkinsonism reflects dopamine receptor blockade by neuroleptic medication, probably in the striatum, we suggest that the lowered susceptibility of the right striatum to drug-induced parkinsonism supports the hypothesis that striatal dopaminergic activity may be asymmetric and more marked in the right striatum among recently treated patients.
Religions of China in Practice

This third volume of "Princeton Readings in Religions" demonstrates that the "three religions" of China - Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism (with a fourth, folk religion, sometimes added) - are not mutually exclusive: they overlap and interact with each other in a rich variety of ways. The volume also illustrates some of the many interactions between Han culture and the cultures designated by the current government as "minorities". Selections from minority cultures here, for instance, are the folktale of Ny Dan the Manchu Shamaness and a funeral chant of the Yi nationality collected by local researchers in the early 1980s. Each of the forty unusual selections, from ancient oracle bones to stirring accounts of mystic visions, is preceded by a substantial introduction. As with the other volumes, most of the selections here have never been translated before. Stephen Teiser provides a general introduction in which the major themes and categories of the religions of China are analysed. The book represents an attempt to move from one conception of the "Chinese spirit" to a picture of many spirits, including a Laozi who acquires magical powers and eventually ascends to heaven in broad daylight; the white-robed Guanyin, one of the most beloved Buddhist deities in China; and the burning-mouth hungry ghost. The book concludes with a section on "earthly conduct".
Measurement of debt servicing capacity: An application of discriminant analysis

In the last ten years, there have been at least 21 instances of 11 countries which experienced such severe difficulties in servicing their international debt that they negotiated with creditor countries to postpone payments of interest or principal (see table 1). The amount of debt service rescheduled has been considerable, probably in the order of $2 billion. In some cases these negotiations were preceded by a period in which arrears of payments occurred (see Frank and Cline (1969) for more details). The debt reschedulings have taken two different forms. The so called Paris and Hague Club negotiations and the Ghanaian reschedulings are most often described as “ad hoc informal meetings of the major creditors.” The creditor countries in these negotiations have done their best to maintain the idea that debt relief is not an institution but a very serious and unique event whenever it occurs. The recent trend toward the .use of consortia, which are also responsible for the pledging and coordination of the regular flows of financial aid, has resulted in the erosion of the ad hoc concept. India, Indonesia, and Turkey are now in a situation which promises periodic rescheduling meetings.
Availability of mRNA for translation during normal and transcription-blocked development

Abstract Cell-free incorporation of amino acids into proteins has been studied in systems prepared from developing sea urchins. The incorporation given by preparations from normal embryos has been compared at several stages of development, pre- and post-gastrulation. These experiments were run in parallel with studies on systems from embryos whose RNA synthesis has been blocked, ab initio, with dactinomycin. 1. 1. Incorporation was followed with l -[14C]leucine when translation of endogenous mRNA was to be examined, and with l -[14C]phenylalanine when poly U was employed as artificial messenger. In the latter cases, incorporation was a measure of peptide-bond synthesis potential, while the incorporation of leucine in optimized systems lacking poly U provided a measure of the endogenous messengers available for translation at each stage. 2. 2. In systems prepared from embryos exposed continuously to dactinomycin, the endogenous messenger RNA was all of “maternal” origin, i.e., synthesized during oogenesis and surviving into the period of embryogenesis. 3. 3. By the test employed, mRNA availability increases very rapidly during the first cleavage cycle of normal embryos. From the very low values characteristic of unfertilized eggs, the incorporation rates rise until at telophase they are close to those given by blastula preparations. The remainder of the increase has appeared by the 32-cell stage. From blastula to gastrula, some further increases occur. 4. 4. Preparations from embryos with transcription blocked give an essentially identical type of changing incorporation up to the blastula stage. Thereafter, failure of morphogenesis is accompanied by a steady decline in available endogenous mRNA, with values approaching zero at the time that normal embryos would be gastrulating. 5. 5. This decline in messenger availability cannot be ascribed to nonspecific injury by the drug to the cells nor to their potential for peptide-bond synthesis, since that potential, as measured by poly U translation, is unaffected.
Dissecting the impact of sleep and stress on the cortisol awakening response in young adults

Cortisol rises precipitously upon awakening, in what has been called the cortisol awakening response (CAR). Atypical CARs have been linked to a number of negative health outcomes. Yet, our understanding of the possible mechanisms creating these associations remains unclear. Both stress and sleep can influence CAR, and may potentially explain its links to health. However, these factors also impact each other, and their influence on CAR has rarely been studied simultaneously. In order to differentiate their effects, this study examined the impact of daily life hassles, anticipatory stress, and subjectively reported sleep on CAR among 58 college students. Self-reported stress and sleep, as well as salivary cortisol (collected during the first hour after awakening) were obtained across two consecutive days. Total sleep time predicted CAR magnitude, but daily hassles and anticipatory stress did not after accounting for the effect of sleep. Lower total sleep time was associated with lower awakening cortisol and greater CAR. These results provide further evidence for the impact of sleep insufficiency on CAR, and suggest future efforts to use CAR as a stress biomarker should take the impact of sleep into consideration.
How Whites Play Their Race Card: Drylongso Stories Reveal “the Game”:

This article analyzes the “self-portrait” rendered through interviews with blacks in John Langston Gwaltney's Drylongso to highlight a theory of whiteness and race from the standpoint of “drylongso...
Coaxial flow mixer for real‐time monitoring of cellular responses in flow cytometry

Improved time resolution of kinetic cellular events in flow cytometry is demonstrated by using a coaxial flow-mixing device integrated within a flow-injection (FI) system. The instrument is used in combination with a Becton Dickinson FACS Analyzer for on-line reagent addition, rapid sample mixing, and temperature control of cell suspensions. The coaxial flow device can instantaneously (<60 ms) mix reagent and sample streams, allowing cytometric analysis of subsecond events to be performed. Kinetic measurements can be performed on the FACS analyzer in a variable time range of from 100 ms to 3 min. The system also allows the collection of unlimited cellular events at a specific incubation time point. Because the system operates continuously and no boost in core flow is required, disturbances of flow conditions are avoided. The capabilities of the flow injection cytometer have been demonstrated by the determination of internal [Ca2+]i mobilization in Jurkat T lymphocytes per fused internally with INDO-1 and stimulated by ionomycin. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The trigeminal nerve in the baboon

The definitive course, relations, branches and communications of the extramedullary part of the trigeminal nerve in baboons are described and illustrated. The nerve was dissected in five animals and the location of all related parasympathetic ganglia was verified microscopically. Variable branching patterns were observed in some areas of the nerve field. Comparisons are made with other primates including man.
Evidence of proviral clearance following postpartum transmission of an ovine lentivirus.

Abstract Lentiviral transmission by transfer of infected colostrum and/or milk is considered to be highly efficient. In this study, postpartum transmission of ovine progressive pneumonia virus (OPPV) from 10 naturally infected ewes to their 23 lambs was followed from the perinatal period throughout a four-year period. The lambs were allowed to suckle from their dam from birth through 32 weeks of age. Virus was tracked by virus isolation, quantitative PCR (qPCR), and anti-OPPV antibody responses as measured by cELISA. Cell-associated OPPV was isolated from colostrum/milk cells in 7 out of 10 ewes and provirus envelope (env) loads ranged 8 to 105 copies/μg DNA in colostrum/milk cells from the 10 ewes using qPCR. Provirus env loads were also detected in the peripheral circulation of 21 lambs at 8 weeks and two lambs at 22 weeks. The qPCR product at 8 weeks was confirmed as the transmembrane (tm) gene of OPPV by cloning and sequencing. Both cELISA titers ranging from 325 to 3125 and cross-neutralizing antibody titers ranging from 6 to 162 to seven different OPPV strains were found in the colostrum of the 10 ewes. Furthermore, cELISA titers in serum from lambs remained detectable through 32 weeks following the clearance of provirus at 24 weeks. After 32 weeks, both provirus and anti-OPPV antibody responses have subsequently remained undetectable through 4 years of age. These data suggest the clearance of cell-associated lentiviruses from lamb circulation after passive transfer of antibody via colostrum.
Microcantilever sensing arrays from biodegradable, pH-responsive hydrogels.

Biodegradable, pH-responsive hydrogels composed of poly(methacrylic acid) crosslinked with varying molar percentages of polycaprolactone diacrylate were synthesized. The equilibrium swelling properties of these pH-responsive materials were studied. Methods were developed to incorporate these novel hydrogels as sensing components in silicon-based microsensors. Extremely thin layers of hydrogels were prepared by photopolymerization atop silicon microcantilever arrays that served to transduce the pH-responsive volume change of the hydrogel into an optical signal. Organosilane chemistry allowed covalent adhesion of the hydrogel to the silicon beam. As the hydrogel swelled, the stress generated at the surface between the hydrogel and the silicon caused a beam deflection downward. The resulting sensor demonstrated a maximum sensitivity of 1 nm/5.7×10−5 pH unit. Sensors were tested in protein-rich solutions to mimic biological conditions and found to retain their high sensitivity. The existing theory was evaluated and developed to predict deflection of these composite cantilever beams.
Real-Time Image Processing Using A Self-Pumped Phase Conjugate Mirror

Real-time 'exclusive or' operation obtained with an interferometer using a self-pumped phase conjugate mirror is reported. Also, results of image subtraction, intensity inversion and image differentiation are shown. Methods of extending the operation to higher order differentiation and of obtaining the Laplacian are discussed.
Exact multi-anyon wave functions in a magnetic field☆

Abstract We present a systematic analysis of the N-body problem for anyons in the presence of an external magnetic field. We find exact N-particle anyonic wave functions which are eigenstates of both energy and angular momentum. We prove the general belief that multi-anyon wave functions fall into two classes. Our wave functions are generated algebraically by the action of symmetrized step operators on two base states. For a generic statistics parameter we identify those combinations of step operators which produce wave functions satisfying the appropriate physical statistics and regularity conditions. For the special case of integer statistics parameter (i.e. bosons or fermions), all combinations are allowed and give all the usual Slater multi-particle states. We also present certain classes of anyonic wave functions in closed functional form.
Long-term weight-loss maintenance: a meta-analysis of US studies

BACKGROUND Current perception is that participants of a structured weight-loss program regain all of their weight loss within 5 y. OBJECTIVE The objective was to examine the long-term weight-loss maintenance of individuals completing a structured weight-loss program. DESIGN Studies were required to 1) have been conducted in the United States, 2) have included participants in a structured weight-loss program, 3) have provided follow-up data with variance estimates for > or =2 y. Primary outcome variables were weight-loss maintenance in kilograms, weight-loss maintenance as a percentage of initial weight loss, and weight loss as a percentage of initial body weight (reduced weight). RESULTS Twenty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Successful very-low-energy diets (VLEDs) were associated with significantly greater weight-loss maintenance than were successful hypoenergetic balanced diets (HBDs) at all years of follow-up. The percentage of individuals at 4 or 5 y of follow-up for VLEDs and HBDs were 55.4% and 79.7%, respectively. The results for VLEDs and HBDs, respectively, were as follows: weight-loss maintenance, 7.1 kg (95% CI: 6.1, 8.1 kg) and 2.0 (1.5, 2.5) kg; percentage weight-loss maintenance, 29% (25%, 33%) and 17% (13%, 22%); and reduced weight, 6.6% (5.7%, 7.5%) and 2.1% (1.6%, 2.7%). Weight-loss maintenance did not differ significantly between women and men. Six studies reported that groups who exercised more had significantly greater weight-loss maintenance than did those who exercised less. CONCLUSIONS Five years after completing structured weight-loss programs, the average individual maintained a weight loss of >3 kg and a reduced weight of >3% of initial body weight. After VLEDs or weight loss of > or =20 kg, individuals maintained significantly more weight loss than after HBDs or weight losses of <10 kg.
Relation of Gothic arch apex to dentist-assisted centric relation

These data suggest that the widely held belief that thumb pressure can position the mandible consistently more posterior than the position indicated by the Gothic arch apex is unfounded. Furthermore, this study provides no evidence to support the contention that the dentist-assisted jaw relation is more reproducible than the relation indicated by the Gothic arch apex.
Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for the Treatment of Achalasia: An Analysis

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the esophagus, characterized by aperistalsis of the esophageal body and incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Treatment of achalasia is currently aimed at decreasing the resting pressure in the LES. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an emerging novel endoscopic procedure for the treatment of achalasia with initial data suggesting an acceptable safety profile, excellent short-term symptom resolution, low incidence of postprocedural gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and improvement in manometric outcomes. Further prospective randomized trials are required to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of this promising technique compared to other treatment modalities for achalasia. In this review we outline the technical aspects of POEM, summarize the available data on safety and outcomes, and suggest future directions for further advancement of this minimally invasive approach for the treatment of achalasia.
The Use of Cold Therapy After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction A Prospective, Randomized Study and Literature Review

We performed a randomized, prospective study to assess the effectiveness of postoperative cold therapy in patients who had anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions. Drain output, length of hospital stay, range of motion, and use of pain medication were all assessed. Patients were randomized into one of four groups after surgery. Group 1 patients had a cooling pad applied to the knee postoperatively and set at a temperature of 40 degrees to 50 degrees F, Group 2 had the cooling pad set at 70 degrees to 80 degrees F, Group 3 received ice packs, and Group 4 received no cold therapy of any kind. The skin temperatures in Groups 1 and 3 were significantly lower than the skin temperatures in Groups 2 and 4 (P < 0.001). The length of hospital stay, range of motion at discharge, use of oral and intramuscular pain medicine, and drain output were not significantly different between groups. No complications related to the type of cold therapy were seen in any group. Thus, both ice packs and cooling pads significantly decreased knee temperature, but we found no objective benefits in the early postoperative course due to this decrease in temperature.
Interannual hydroclimatic variability and its influence on winter nutrient loadings over the Southeast United States

It is well established in the hydroclimatic literature that the interannual variability in seasonal streamflow could be partially explained using climatic precursors such as tropical sea surface temperature (SST) conditions. Similarly, it is widely known that streamflow is the most important predictor in estimating nutrient loadings and the associated concentration. The intent of this study is to bridge these two findings so that nutrient loadings could be predicted using season-ahead climate forecasts forced with forecasted SSTs. By selecting 18 relatively undeveloped basins in the Southeast US (SEUS), we relate winter (January-February-March, JFM) precipitation forecasts that influence the JFM streamflow over the basin to develop winter forecasts of nutrient loadings. For this purpose, we consider two different types of low-dimensional statistical models to predict 3-month ahead nutrient loadings based on retrospective climate forecasts. Split sample validation of the predictive models shows that 18–45% of interannual variability in observed winter nutrient loadings could be predicted even before the beginning of the season for at least 8 stations. Stations that have very high coefficient of determination (> 0.8) in predicting the observed water quality network (WQN) loadings during JFM exhibit significant skill in predicting seasonal total nitrogen (TN) loadings using climate forecasts. Incorporating antecedent flow conditions (December flow) as an additional predictor did not increase the explained variance in these stations, but substantially reduced the root-mean-square error (RMSE) in the predicted loadings. Relating the dominant mode of winter nutrient loadings over 18 stations clearly illustrates the association with El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions. Potential utility of these season-ahead nutrient predictions in developing proactive and adaptive nutrient management strategies is also discussed.
Regulation of cell-cell communication mediated by connexin 43 in rabbit myometrial cells.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the rapid regulation of cell-cell communication by using the microinjection of purified cAMP-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A), the Caz+-phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase C), or the inhibitor proteins (PKI and CKI) that are, respectively, specific for each of these enzymes. Gap junction phenotypes of myometrial tissue and cells were studied by means of immunocytochemistry with antibody to connexin 43 (al; Cx43). Cells were enzymatically disaggregated from myometrium of nonpregnant, mid-pregnant (Day 14), and late-pregnant (Day 29) rabbit uteri (n = 8 per group) and seeded at high density such that after 4 days, cultures had the appearance of a cross-sectioned myometrium. Purified proteins and their subunits were microinjected, and intercellular communication was evaluated by monitoring Lucifer Yellow dye transfer. Cultures were treated with 0.5 mM 8Br-cAMP (8-bromo adenosine 3',5' cyclic monophosphate) or 10 1 M OAG (1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol), which, respectively, activate protein kinase A and protein kinase C. Immunoreactive Cx43 and cell-cell communication were examined 5 min to 2 h later. Cx43 was detected in myometrial cryosections and cultured cells by indirect immunofluorescence, and its expression increased with gestation. Exposure to 8Br-cAMP increased the amount of immunoreactive Cx43. Basal dye transfer was minimal in nonpregnant cells, increased in cells of mid-pregnant uteri, and was maximal in late-pregnant cells. Treatment with 8Br-cAMP enhanced transfer in mid- and late-pregnant cells but had no obvious effect on cells from nonpregnant animals. OAG treatment inhibited dye transfer in greater than 95% of the cells tested irrespective of pregnancy status. PKI inhibited cell-cell communication within 2 min and up to 40 min. Injection of free catalytic subunit of protein kinase A following PKI inhibition restored communication within 2-3 min, with maximal transfer in 4-5 min. Protein kinase C inhibited communication, which resumed in < 3 min after injection of CKI. We conclude that rabbit myometrial cells engage in Cx43-mediated cell-cell communication and that this process increases during pregnancy. Further, activators of protein kinase A or injected free catalytic subunit rapidly enhances cell-cell communication, whereas activators of protein kinase C or the enzyme itself diminishes this process.
Living donor liver transplantation for neonatal hemochromatosis using non-anatomically resected segments II and III: a case report

Introduction Neonatal hemochromatosis is the most common cause of liver failure and liver transplantation in the newborn. The size of the infant determines the liver volume that can be transplanted safely without incurring complications arising from a large graft. Transplantation of monosegments II or III is a standard method for the newborns with liver failure.
Atherosclerosis Progression in LDL Receptor–Deficient and Apolipoprotein E–Deficient Mice Is Independent of Genetic Alterations in Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1

Abstract—Impaired fibrinolysis has been linked to atherosclerosis in a number of experimental and clinical studies. Plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) is the primary inhibitor of plasminogen activation and has been proposed to promote atherosclerosis by facilitating fibrin deposition within developing lesions. We examined the contribution of PAI-1 to disease progression in 2 established mouse models of atherosclerosis. Mice lacking apolipoprotein E (apoE−/−) and mice lacking the low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR−/−) were crossbred with transgenic mice overexpressing PAI-1 (resulting in PAI-1 Tg+/apoE−/− and PAI-1 Tg+/LDLR−/−, respectively) or were crossbred with mice completely deficient in PAI-1 gene expression (resulting in PAI-1−/−/apoE−/− and PAI-1−/−/LDLR−/−, respectively). All animals were placed on a western diet (21% fat and 0.15% cholesterol) at 4 weeks of age and analyzed for the extent of atherosclerosis after an additional 6, 15, or 30 weeks. Intimal and medial areas were dete...
Development of a gastroretentive pulsatile drug delivery platform

Objectives To develop a novel gastroretentive pulsatile drug delivery platform by combining the advantages of floating dosage forms for the stomach and pulsatile drug delivery systems. Methods A gastric fluid impermeable capsule body was used as a vessel to contain one or more drug layer(s) as well as one or more lag-time controlling layer(s). A controlled amount of air was sealed in the innermost portion of the capsule body to reduce the overall density of the drug delivery platform, enabling gastric floatation. An optimal mass fill inside the gastric fluid impermeable capsule body enabled buoyancy in a vertical orientation to provide a constant surface area for controlled erosion of the lag-time controlling layer. The lag-time controlling layer consisted of a swellable polymer, which rapidly formed a gel to seal the mouth of capsule body and act as a barrier to gastric fluid ingress. Key findings By varying the composition of the lag-time controlling layer, it was possible to selectively program the onset of the pulsatile delivery of a drug. Conclusions This new delivery platform offers a new method of delivery for a variety of suitable drugs targeted in chronopharmaceutical therapy. This strategy could ultimately improve drug efficacy and patient compliance, and reduce harmful side effects by scaling back doses of drug administered.
A boundary controller based on linear infinite dimensional system for station keeping of a tethered satellite system

In this paper, we look at an unique way of station keeping of a tethered satellite system. We design the boundary control based on the infinite dimensional model of the system dynamics. A linearized infinite dimensional system is obtained from the linearization of the nonlinear infinite dimensional system around the system relative equilibrium configuration. A boundary control is proposed for the stabilization of this linearized partial differential equation system and its stability analysis is performed using Lyapunov functions. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed controller on the linear and non-linear systems. The proposed boundary controller does not constrain the tension in the tether to be positive.
Diagnosing Monthly Mean Boundary Layer Properties from Reanalysis Data Using a Bulk Boundary Layer Model

Abstract The mixed-layer approach to modeling the planetary boundary layer (PBL) is particularly well suited to inversion-topped PBLs, such as the stratocumulus-topped boundary layer found off the west coast of America in the subtropical Pacific Ocean at northern and southern latitudes. However, a strong temperature inversion near 850 hPa (the trade wind inversion) is not confined to the stratocumulus regimes, but has been observed over most parts of the subtropical–tropical Pacific Ocean. In this paper, the authors test the ability of a simple bulk boundary layer model (BBLM) to diagnose entrainment velocity, cumulus mass flux, and surface latent heat flux from monthly mean reanalysis data. The PBL depth is estimated from Geoscience Laser Altimeter System data. The model is based on the conservation equations for mass, total water mixing ratio, and moist static energy. The BBLM diagnoses entrainment velocities between 1 and 8 mm s−1 in the stratocumulus and trade wind regions, with increasing rates towar...
A novel high throughput reconfigurable FPGA architecture

With increased logic density due to the shift towards Deep Submicron technologies (DSM), FPGAs have become a viable option for implementing large designs. However, most commercial FPGAs, due to their general purpose architectural nature, cannot handle designs which require very high throughput. In this paper, we propose a novel high throughput FPGA architecture which tries to combine the high-performance of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and the flexibility afforded by the reconfigurability of FPGAs. This architecture utilizes the concept of 'Wave-Steering' and works best for designs which are highly regular and have almost equal delays along all paths. It has enormous potential in Digital Signal and Image Processing applications since a good portion of these applications are regular in nature. Preliminary results for some commonly used DSP designs are encouraging and yield throughputs in the neighborhood of 770 MHz in 0.5m CMOS technology.
Uniforms in the Middle School: Student Opinions, Discipline Data, and School Police Data

This study investigated public middle school students' opinions on the benefits of wearing a school uniform. A review of related literature is provided along with results of the opinions obtained from 604 seventh- and eighth-grade middle school students attending a public school in Nevada that had recently initiated a school uniform policy. Improvements in discipline data and school police data were also examined. Results highlighted the perceived benefits (i.e., decreases in discipline, gang involvement, and bullying and increases in safety, ease of going to school, confidence, and self-esteem) of wearing a uniform to school, as reported by students through a survey instrument. The results focus on gender, grade level, and racial/ethnic differences in students' responses. Few significant differences were found. One benefit was found between genders, six benefits between grade levels, and three benefits related to racial/ethnic groups.
Characterizing Spatial Dynamics of Bifurcation to Alternans in Isolated Whole Rabbit Hearts Based on Alternate Pacing

Sudden cardiac death instigated by ventricular fibrillation (VF) is the largest cause of natural death in the USA. Alternans, a beat-to-beat alternation in the action potential duration, has been implicated as being proarrhythmic. The onset of alternans is mediated via a bifurcation, which may occur through either a smooth or a border-collision mechanism. The objective of this study was to characterize the mechanism of bifurcation to alternans based on experiments in isolated whole rabbit hearts. High resolution optical mapping was performed and the electrical activity was recorded from the left ventricle (LV) epicardial surface of the heart. Each heart was paced using an "alternate pacing protocol," where the basic cycle length (BCL) was alternatively perturbed by ±δ. Local onset of alternans in the heart, BCL(start), was measured in the absence of perturbations (δ = 0) and was defined as the BCL at which 10% of LV exhibited alternans. The influences of perturbation size were investigated at two BCLs: one prior to BCL(start) (BCL(prior) = BCL(start) + 20 ms) and one preceding BCL(prior) (BCL(far) = BCL(start) + 40 ms). Our results demonstrate significant spatial correlation of the region exhibiting alternans with smooth bifurcation characteristics, indicating that transition to alternans in isolated rabbit hearts occurs predominantly through smooth bifurcation.
Experimental Study on the Synthesis of Titanium and Tantalum Nitrides in the Self-Propagating Regime

Abstract A detailed experimental study of the synthesis of transition metal nitrides via combustion reactions between gaseous nitrogen and the respective metal powders at elevated pressures is presented. Two representative combustion reactions were studied: between tantalum and nitrogen, which proceeds without the formation of any liquid phase, and between titanium and nitrogen, which is accompanied by melling of the reactant titanium powder. The effects of nitrogen pressure, metal particle size, porosity of the metal sample and dilution of the solid phase on the combustion characteristics were studied and optimum conditions for the synthesis of the respective nitrides were determined. Values of the apparent activation energies for the two reactions were extracted, based on combustion characteristics measurements.
Effect of Verification Bias on Screening for Prostate Cancer by Measurement of Prostate-Specific Antigen

Background The sensitivity and specificity of a screening test are biased when disease status is not verified in all subjects and when the likelihood of confirmation depends on the test result itself. We assessed the screening characteristics of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurement after correction for verification bias. Methods Between 1995 and 2001, 6691 men underwent PSA-based screening for prostate cancer. Of these men, 705 (11 percent) subsequently underwent biopsy of the prostate. Under the assumption that the chance of undergoing a biopsy depends only on the PSA-test result and other observed clinical variables, we used a mathematical model to estimate adjusted receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) curves. Results Adjusting for verification bias significantly increased the area under the ROC curve (i.e., the overall diagnostic performance) of the PSA test, as compared with an unadjusted analysis (0.86 vs. 0.69, P<0.001, for men less than 60 years of age; 0.72 vs. 0.62, P=0.008, for men...
Radiation Protection in the Era of Helical CT: Practical Patient Based Programs for Decreasing Patient Exposure

Practical methods are described in this review for the practicing radiologist to minimize radiation dose to patients particularly with reference to multidetector helical computed tomography. Technical, educational, and management methods are outlined in detail as well as their rationale. Preliminary results of this comprehensive program are also outlined after the first year of its institution.
Tetracycline-induced immune hemolytic anemia.

Two episodes of immune hemolysis occurring following the administration of tetracycline-HCI are reported. The patient was found to be symptom-free and to have normal hematologic studies during drug-free intervals. The antigenic specificity of the drug-red blood cell complex was proven by conventional AGT results, as well as the more sensitive Polybrene technique. An in vitro technique for conjugation of tetracycline with human red blood cells is described which provides cells suitable for use for the detection of this unusual antibody.
Variant actions and phase structure in lattice gauge theory

We study a simple generalization of Wilson's SU(2) lattice gauge theory. In various limits the model reduces to the usual SU(2), SO(3), or ${Z}_{2}$ models. Using Monte Carlo techniques on a four-dimensional lattice, we follow the known SO(3) and ${Z}_{2}$ first-order transitions into the phase diagram. They merge at a triple point and continue together to a critical end point. The peak in the specific heat of the SU(2) model is a shadow of this nearby singularity.
Session 18 — Data converter techniques

This session presents six papers covering advanced data converter techniques across different architectures, including successive approximation, time-interleaved, folding, VCO-based, and non-uniform sampling ADCs.
Esophageal symptoms, manometry, and histology before and after antireflux surgery: a long-term follow-up study.

Abstract Antireflux surgery has been shown to relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux for many years postoperatively, but long-term follow-up studies with more objective measurements of reflux are uncommon. We studied 25 patients with reflux preoperatively and 8 mo postsurgery. Thirteen patients were studied a third time 69 mo postoperatively. Each study included symptom assessment, reflux testing, suction biopsy of the esophagus, and esophageal manometry. Of 23 patients with preoperative heartburn, 15 had none, and 6 had Jess severe heartburn at the early postoperative study. This symptomatic improvement was accompanied by significant changes in acid-reflux scores (1624 patients became negative or improved), esophageal biopsy appearance (1219 converted from abnormal to normal), and lower esophageal sphincter pressures (mean pressure increased from 7.0 to 14.8 mm Hg). At the late follow-up, only 213 patients had the return of heartburn, and patient satisfaction remained high. Nonetheless, at the late postoperative study, 49 patients with no early postoperative reflux had positive tests; 58 patients whose biopsies had become normal were again abnormal; and the mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure decreased significantly to 10.9 mm Hg. We conclude that it is reasonable to expect 5–6 yr of relief from heartburn after antireflux surgery. However, the late postoperative objective deterioration is of concern and suggests that further refinement of surgical technique may be necessary.
Growth hormone activity in human pregnancy

Abstract The serum sulfation factor, which is thought to be an index to growth hormone activity, is not increased in normal, pre-eclamptic, or diabetic pregnant women in late pregnancy. In cord blood, the serum sulfation factor is somewhat lower than in control or maternal sera. The fact that the serum sulfation factor is not increased in late pregnancy does not prove that growth hormone activity is not increased. The sulfation factor is only an indirect index and there are other hormonal features of pregnancy that might well vitiate the assay.
Production and characterization of mammalian cells reversibly arrested in G1 by growth in isoleucine-deficient medium.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the production and characterization of mammalian cells reversibly arrested in G 1 by growth in isoleucine-deficient medium. An extremely interesting and important class of cells in man exists under normal conditions as a pool of nonproliferating cells, arrested in the postmitotic phase of the cell cycle. Under appropriate conditions, these cells can be stimulated either to differentiate, thereby irreversibly losing reproductive capacity or to resume cycle traverse for a limited number of divisions, ultimately accumulating again in a state of G 1 arrest. Regulation of mammalian cell proliferation in vivo is an extraordinarily complex process mediated by a multiplicity of interacting operations of ill-defined nature. Because of the complexity of regulation in vivo , it would be desirable to obtain a simpler in vitro model system.
Swimming capabilities of Mesozoic marine reptiles; implications for method of predation

Body shape and mode of swimming were major factors that affected the swimming capabilities of Mesozoic marine reptiles. By estimating the total drag and the amount of energy available through metabolism, the maximum sustained swimming speed was calculated for 115 marine reptile specimens. Calculated sustained swimming speeds range from 1.8 to 2.7 m/sec, but are probably too high by as much as a factor of two. Mesozoic marine reptiles were probably much slower than modern toothed whales. The diversification of fast, agile teleost fish in the Cretaceous may have therefore contributed to the decline of the marine reptiles.Long-bodied reptiles appear to have had slower sustained swimming speeds than deep-bodied forms of the same length. For a given length, ichthyosaurs were probably faster sustained swimmers than plesiosaurs, and plesiosaurs were probably faster sustained swimmers than crocodiles and mosasaurs. This suggests that the long-bodied forms probably used an ambush technique to capture prey, to maximize the range of possible prey and to minimize competition with the faster pursuit predators.
The Activity Coefficients of Hydrofluoric Acid in Water from 0 to 35 °C.

The mean stoichiometric activity coefficients of hydrofluoric acid in aqueous solutions have been calculated from measurements of electrolytic conductivity, the electromotive forces of galvanic cells without liquid junction, and the freezing-point depression. Values obtained from freezing-point depressions were converted to values for 25 °C using known values of the heats of dilution and apparent molal heat capacities of aqueous solutions of hydrofluoric acid of various concentrations. It is also shown that values for the concentrations of the various ionic species in hydrofluoric acid, namely, H+, F-, HF 2 ¯ , and HF depend on the functions used to represent the ionic activity coefficients whereas values of the mean activity, a H + a F - , are independent of such functions. Values of the pH of various concentrations of hydrofluoric acid are given for temperatures of 0 to 35 °C; these, likewise, are nearly independent of activity-coefficient function used to obtain values for the ionic concentrations.
A Covering Theorem

(1973). A Covering Theorem. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 80, No. 4, pp. 410-411.
Synthesis of Carbon, Silicon, and Boron-nitride Nanostructures via Microwave Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition

Carbon, silicon nitride and boron nitride nanostructures were synthesized using microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Both scanning and transmission electron microscopies and x-ray diffraction were used to observe the morphology and structures while energy dispersive x-ray was used to determine the composition of the nanostructured materials. Bamboo-like multiwalled carbon nanotube structures were observed while silicon nitride showed novel needle-like solid structures. All materials were deposited using a thin film iron catalyst seeded on either silicon with reactive plasma gases containing either a mixture of methane and ammonia or ammonia. A general discussion of the nucleation and growth mechanisms for the various materials will also be included.
Responses of central vestibular neurons to sinusoidal yaw rotation in compensated macaques after unilateral labyrinthectomy

After vestibular labyrinth injury, behavioral measures of vestibular function partially recover through the process of vestibular compensation. The present study was performed to improve our understanding of the physiology of macaque vestibular nucleus neurons in the compensated state (>6 wk) after unilateral labyrinthectomy (UL). The responses of neurons to sinusoidal yaw rotation at a series of frequencies (0.1–2.0 Hz) and peak velocities (7.5–210°/s) were examined to determine how the behavior of these cells differed from those in animals with intact labyrinths. The sensitivity of neurons responding to ipsilateral rotation (type I) did not differ between the intact and injured sides after UL, although this sensitivity was lower bilaterally after lesion than before lesion. The sensitivity of neurons that increase firing with contralateral rotation (type II) was higher ipsilateral to the UL than before lesion or in the nucleus contralateral to the UL. UL did not increase asymmetry in the responses of individual type I or II neurons to ipsilateral vs. contralateral rotation, nor does it change the power law relationship between neuronal firing and level of stimulation. Increased sensitivities of contralesional type I neurons to the remaining vestibular nerve input and increased efficacy of inhibitory vestibular commissures projecting to the ipsilesional vestibular nucleus appear to be responsible for recovery of dynamic function of central vestibular neurons in compensated animals. The portion of type I neurons on the ipsilesional side is reduced in compensated animals, which likely accounts for the asymmetries in vestibular reflexes and perception that characterize vestibular function after UL.
Morpholine Nitrosation To Better Understand Potential Solvent Based CO2 Capture Process Reactions

The amine assisted CO2 capture process from coal fired power plants strives for the determination of degradation components and its consequences. Among them, nitrosamine formation and their emissions are of particular concern due to their environmental and health effects. The experiments were conducted using morpholine as a representative secondary amine as a potential CO2 capture solvent with 100 ppm standard NO2 gas to better understand the nitrosamine reaction pathways under scrubber and stripper conditions. The role of nitrite in the nitrosation reaction was probed at elevated temperatures. The effects of different concentrations of nitrite on morpholine were evaluated. Formation rate, decomposition rates, activation energy, and the possible reaction pathways are elaborated. Thermal stability tests at 135 °C indicated the decomposition of nitrosamines at the rate of 1 μg/(g h) with activation energy of 131 kJ/mol. The activation energy for the reaction of morpholine with sodium nitrite was found as 10...
The Evolution of Video Technologies for Distance Learning

This paper describes distance learning technologies utilized by the Stanford Instructional Television Network (SITN), the largest single university provider of televised graduate-level engineering and computer science courses in the world. Using a variety of delivery methods, SITN provides engineers, scientists, and technical managers throughout the U.S. and worldwide a means to extend their education without leaving their workplace by delivering to them graduate engineering courses, degree and certificate programs, short courses, and research seminars. Programming originates from ten specially designed studio classrooms each equipped as a complete TV studio utilizing robotically controlled TV cameras, special-effects generators, student microphones, return-video monitors, and return-audio circuits from the distant sites.
Advances in shock timing experiments on the National Ignition Facility

Recent advances in shock timing experiments and analysis techniques now enable shock measurements to be performed in cryogenic deuterium-tritium (DT) ice layered capsule implosions on the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Previous measurements of shock timing in inertial confinement fusion (ICF) implosions were performed in surrogate targets, where the solid DT ice shell and central DT gas were replaced with a continuous liquid deuterium (D2) fill. These previous experiments pose two surrogacy issues: a material surrogacy due to the difference of species (D2 vs. DT) and densities of the materials used and a geometric surrogacy due to presence of an additional interface (ice/gas) previously absent in the liquid-filled targets. This report presents experimental data and a new analysis method for validating the assumptions underlying this surrogate technique.
Sacrococcygeal yolk sac carcinoma: Imaging findings during treatment

Sacrococcygeal teratomas and their malignant counterparts (germ cell tumors) are the most common solid tumors in neonates. Prompt diagnosis is essential because the frequency of malignant transformation increases from 10–20 % in neonates to 67 % in patients over 2 months of age. Cross-sectional imaging has largely replaced surgical exploration for staging these tumors and assessing their response to chemotherapy. Radiologists must be familiar with changes in the imaging findings of these tumors during and after treatment so that they can advise clinicians regarding the efficacy of therapy and the presence or absence of recurrent disease. From our study, magnetic resonance imaging appears to be a better modality for assessing sacral invasion and metastases and distinguishing fibrotic masses from recurrent tumor.
A study of modern Linux API usage and compatibility: what to support when you're supporting

This paper presents a study of Linux API usage across all applications and libraries in the Ubuntu Linux 15.04 distribution. We propose metrics for reasoning about the importance of various system APIs, including system calls, pseudo-files, and libc functions. Our metrics are designed for evaluating the relative maturity of a prototype system or compatibility layer, and this paper focuses on compatibility with Linux applications. This study uses a combination of static analysis to understand API usage and survey data to weight the relative importance of applications to end users. This paper yields several insights for developers and researchers, which are useful for assessing the complexity and security of Linux APIs. For example, every Ubuntu installation requires 224 system calls, 208 ioctl, fcntl, and prctl codes and hundreds of pseudo files. For each API type, a significant number of APIs are rarely used, if ever. Moreover, several security-relevant API changes, such as replacing access with faccessat, have met with slow adoption. Finally, hundreds of libc interfaces are effectively unused, yielding opportunities to improve security and efficiency by restructuring libc.