cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In situ TEM measurement of electrical properties of individual BaTiO3 nanocubes

We report on the measurement of the electrical properties of individual pristine and doped BaTiO3 nanocubes by using in situ transmission electron microscopy with a two-electrode configuration. The dimensions of the nanocubes tested are between 10 and 20 nm, which rendered their in situ electrical characterization challenging. We characterized 4%Cr and 5%La (atomic percentage) doped BaTiO3 nanocubes and compared them with the properties of pristine BaTiO3 nanocubes synthesized by the same solvothermal method. We found that the resistance of all three types of nanocubes when displayed in log-scale shows a nearly linear dependence on the applied electric field (R2 ≥ 0.95) over a wide range of electric fields (50–900 kV/cm). Compared with pristine BaTiO3 nanocubes, the resistance of both 4%Cr and 5%La doped nanocubes showed reduced variation rates with respect to the electric field, with 5%La doping, demonstrating a better reduction in the variation rate. By developing techniques capable of evaluating the properties of individual BaTiO3 nanocubes, we expect that our work to open the door to the use of BaTiO3 nanomaterials in the design of future multilayer ceramic capacitors with improved volumetric efficiency and ferroelectrics-enabled nanodevices with advanced functionality.
The immunogenetics of viral antigen response is associated with sub-type specific glioma risk and survival

Background Multiple studies have implicated infections in glioma susceptibility, but the evidence remains inconsistent. Genetic variants in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region modulate host response to infection and have been linked to glioma risk. In this study we leveraged genetic predictors of antibody response to 10 viral antigens to investigate the relationship and glioma risk and survival. Methods Genetic reactivity scores (GRS) for each antigen were derived from genome-wide significant (p<5x10-8) variants associated with immunoglobulin G antibody response in the UK Biobank cohort. We conducted parallel analyses of glioma risk and survival for each GRS and HLA alleles imputed at two-field resolution using data from 3418 glioma patients and 8156 controls. Results Genetic reactivity scores to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) ZEBRA and EBNA antigens and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) VP1 antigen were suggestively associated with glioma risk and survival (unadjusted p<0.05). GRSZEBRA and GRSMCV were associated in opposite directions with risk of IDH wild type gliomas (Odds ratio ORZEBRA=0.91, p=0.007 / ORMCV=1.11, p=0.005). GRSEBNA was associated with both increased risk for IDH mutated gliomas (OR=1.09, p=0.04) and improved survival (Hazard ratio HR=0.86, p=0.01). HLA-DQA1*03:01 was significantly associated with decreased risk of glioma overall (OR=0.85, p=3.96x10-4) after multiple testing adjustment. Conclusion This first systematic investigation of the role of genetic determinants of viral antigen reactivity in glioma risk and survival provides insight into complex immunogenomic mechanisms of glioma pathogenesis. These results may also inform applications of antiviral based therapies in the treatment of glioma.
Localization of Distal Retinal Activity with the Transretinal ERG

A wide range of normal human scotopic ERG responses obtained in background adaptation are compactly represented by Rushton H2 curves; (1) sensitivity and (2) scaling of response size are two separable adaptive properties of both a- and b-waves (Vision Research 18, 1978). A similar H2 analysis of ERG responses from developing rat retina in background adaptation was done to determine age related changes in a- and b-wave sensitivity and scaling. Correlations of developing ERG to maturing distal retina suggest anatomical sites in photoreceptors and outer plexiform layer which influence sensitivity and scaling of ERG responses. Furthermore, ERG studies of background adaptation in a strain of mutant mouse (pcd) having progressive retinal degeneration which begins in the photoreceptor inner segments have revealed sensitivity and scaling changes which are clearly distinguishable from normal. We have now devised an abbreviated procedure which allows rapid assessment of sensitivity and scaling of human ERG responses in conditions of background adaptation ranging from dark to those which saturate the psychophysical increment threshold. In human retinal diseases localization of the site of early degeneration in rods may become possible through this technique.
Tagged Probe Interval Graphs

A generalization of interval graph is introduced for cosmid contig mapping of DNA. A graph is a tagged probe interval graph if its vertex set can be partitioned into two subsets of probes and nonprobes, and a closed interval can be assigned to each vertex such that two vertices are adjacent if and only if at least one of them is a probe and one end of its corresponding interval is contained in the interval corresponding to the other vertex. We show that tagged probe interval graphs are weakly triangulated graphs, hence are perfect graphs. For a tagged probe interval graph with a given partition, we give a chordal completion that is consistent to any tagged interval completions with respect to the same vertex partition. Forbidden induced subgraph lists are given for trees with or without a given vertex partition. A heuristic that construct map candidates is given for cosmid contig mapping.
A Rental System for Administration of Athletic Clothing

(1930). A Rental System for Administration of Athletic Clothing. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 1, No. 8, pp. 24-53.
Functional electrical stimulation leg cycle ergometer exercise: training effects on cardiorespiratory responses of spinal cord injured subjects at rest and during submaximal exercise.

This study investigated the cardiorespiratory (CR) responses at rest and during submaximal (0-W) functional electrical stimulation (FES)-induced leg cycle ergometer (LCE) exercise prior to and following a progressive intensity FES-LCEa exercise training program in spinal cord injured (SCI) subjects. Seven quadriplegics and six paraplegics participated in FES-LCE training three sessions per week for approximately 12 weeks (36 sessions). Monitored CR responses, including oxygen uptake (VO2), pulmonary ventilation (VE), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), arteriovenous O2 difference (a-vO2), blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), total peripheral resistance (TPR), and cardiac output (Q), were determined before and after training. Power output (PO) increased significantly (p < .05) over the duration of the training program, indicating increased in strength and endurance of the paralyzed muscles used. Respiratory responses were not significantly altered by training in both groups. FES-LCE training significantly increased resting HR and SBP in quadriplegics and lowered SBP, DBP, and MAP in paraplegics. In both groups, HR and BP during submaximal exercise significantly decreased and SV and Q significantly increased after completion of the training program. These results suggest that FES-LCE training improves peripheral muscular and central cardiovascular fitness in SCI subjects. Posttraining HR and BP may also be more stable in quadriplegics and alleviate hypotension. This therapeutic exercise may ultimately lead to improved rehabilitation outcome and reduced stress during activities of daily living, and possibly reduce the risks for secondary CR disabilities.
Tri-band patch antenna for small GPS polarimetric arrays

A novel compact GPS tri-band microstrip antenna, which is compatible to small GPS polarimetric arrays, is described. Test results confirm that good performance over the three bands of interest is obtained.
Determining the optimum configuration for monolithic wafer scale integration

An analysis of the best technology implementation using 100,000 system gates was performed. Four selection criteria for each of the six technologies were chosen as; minimum circuit board area, minimum power dissipation, maximum MTBF, and the combination of these three. Categories evaluated were; 1) if cost was not a factor; 2) if minimal development cost was a factor; 3) if production cost was a factor; and 4) if the development cost amortized over the production quantity added with the production unit cost (total life cycle cost) was a factor. WSI shows up as the overall best technology implementation.
Selection of pupation habitats by oriental fruit fly larvae in the laboratory.

We performed a series of laboratory experiments to determine the effects of shade, soil moisture, and soil compaction on the selection of pupation habitats by wandering late-instar Oriental fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). Larvae showed a strong preference toward pupating in shaded rather than brightly lit areas, in moist rather than dry soil, and in soil with larger particle sizes. These behavioral preferences are likely to lead to clumped distribution of Oriental fruit fly pupae in natural habitats. The implications of this for management of localized populations by chemical and biological methods are discussed.
An Open-Label Trial of Memantine for Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Background. Studies using standard neuropsychological instruments have demonstrated memory deficits in patients with PTSD. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of the N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist memantine in veterans with PTSD and cognitive impairment. Methods. Twenty-six veterans with PTSD and cognitive impairment received 16 weeks of memantine in an open-label fashion. Cognition was assessed using the Spatial Span, Logical Memory I, and Letter-Number Sequencing subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scale III and the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). RBANS measures attention, language, visuospatial skills, and immediate and delayed memories. The Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A), Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (Q-LES-Q), and Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) were secondary outcome measures. Results. There was a significant improvement in RBANS, both total and subscale scores (P < 0.05), over time. There was a reduction in total CAPS scores, avoidance/numbing symptoms (CAPS-C) and hyperarousal symptoms (CAPS-D), HAM-D, Q-LES-Q, and SDS scores. However, there was no reduction in reexperiencing (CAPS-B) and HAM-A scores. Memantine was well tolerated. Conclusions. Memantine improved cognitive symptoms, PTSD symptoms, and mood in veterans with PTSD. Randomized double-blind studies are needed to validate these preliminary observations.
Temporal Belief Revision Rationalized by Plausibility Orderings

Within the class of structures introduced in [G. Bonanno, Axiomatic characterization of the AGM theory of belief revision in a temporal logic, Artificial Intelligence, 171 (2007), 144-160] we consider the subclass satisfying the property that, for every state-instant pair (omega,t), there is an ordering of the set of states that rationalizes the revised beliefs at every (omega,t') where t' is an immediate successor of t. We characterize this class both semantically and syntactically.
Improved harmony search from ensemble of music players

A music phenomenon-inspired algorithm, harmony search was further developed by considering ensemble among music players. The harmony search algorithm conceptualizes a group of musicians together trying to find better state of harmony, where each player produces a sound based on one of three operations (random selection, memory consideration, and pitch adjustment). In this study, one more operation (ensemble consideration) was added to the original algorithm structure. The new operation considers relationship among decision variables, and the value of each decision variable can be determined from the strong relationship with other variables. The improved harmony search algorithm was applied to the design of water distribution network. Results showed that the improved algorithm found better solution than those of genetic algorithm, simulated annealing, and original HS algorithm.
Antibodies to granulocytic ehrlichiae in cattle from Connecticut.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) with a purified recombinant 44-kDa protein and indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) staining methods incorporating whole-cell antigens of the human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) agent were used to detect antibodies to Ehrlichia phagocytophila genogroup organisms in cattle sera. The cattle lived in tick-infested areas of Connecticut, USA and were healthy at the times blood samples were collected in 1990, 1999 and 2000. Of the 339 serum samples analysed, 40 (12%) and 15 (4%) were positive by ELISA and IFA, respectively. Western immunoblots of a subset of sera verified antibody reactivity of six serum samples, positive by ELISA with titres of 640–2560, to a protein with a molecular mass of c. 44 kDa. Although seroprevalence rates were low, cattle were exposed to the HGE agent at different sites and should be monitored for anaemia, leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, especially if there is evidence of unexplained decreased milk production. Different serological testing methods should be used to detect immunoglobulins.
Growth and Maintenance of Chick Embryo Fibroblasts (CEF)

Primary cultures of chick embryo fibroblasts (CEF) are widely used for the cultivation of viruses. Protocols for the growth and maintenance of CEF cells in the laboratory are provided.
Teaching Time Investment: Does Online Really Take More Time than Face-to-Face?.

Enrollments in online programs are growing, increasing demand for online courses. The perception that teaching online takes more time than teaching face-to-face creates concerns related to faculty workload. To date, the research on teaching time does not provide a clear answer as to the accuracy of this perception. This study was designed to investigate which aspects, if any, are more time consuming for instructors teaching in the online environment. Time logs were kept by four online instructors (eight classes) and six on-campus instructors (six classes) through six weeks of the 15-week semester. Results indicated that, overall, face-to-face teaching required more time per student, but certain aspects of online teaching take considerably more time per student than in the face-to-face classroom.
REGULATION OF TOPOGRAPHIC PROJECTION BY THE EPH FAMILY RECEPTOR BSK (EPHA5) AND ITS LIGANDS

Topographic projection is a general feature of brain architecture and is critical for appropriate information processing and coding. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanisms that govern topographic organization. The Eph family receptor tyrosine kinases and ligands have recently been implicated in the specification of topographic maps. We have shown that Bsk, an Eph family receptor, and its ligands are expressed in a complementary fashion in neurons and targets, respectively, in several neural systems. For example, in the hippocampus, Bsk is expressed in an increasing lateral to medial gradient. In contrast, at least three different ligands, viz., Elf-1, LERK3/Ehk1-L, and AL-1/RAGS/LERK7, are transcribed in complementary (opposing) gradients in the hippocampal subcortical target, the lateral septum. However, the spatial and temporal distribution of the ligands are different, such that combinatorially they specify the full target region during development. Consistent with a key role in hippocamposeptal topographic projection, the ligands selectively inhibit the growth of the topographically inappropriate medial hippocampal neurites but sustain the growth of the appropriate lateral neurites. Our studies indicate that the interaction of Bsk and its ligands restricts the receptor-positive medial neurons to the topographically appropriate, ligand-poor dorsal septal target. In addition to the hippocamposeptal system, Bsk and its ligands are also expressed in afferents and targets of several other systems, including the olfactory and the retinotectal systems. Consequently, Bsk and its ligands may play important roles in neuron-target interactions in multiple neural circuits.
Site-independent expression of the chicken βA-globin gene in transgenic mice

THE level of expression of exogenous genes carried by transgenic mice typically varies from mouse to mouse and can be quite low. This behaviour is attributed to the influence of the mouse chromatin near the site of transgene integration1,2. This 'position effect' has been seen in transgenic mice carrying the human β-globin gene. It was however, abolished when DNase I hypersensitive sites (normally found 65 to 44 kilobases (kb) upstream) were linked to the human β-globin transgene3–5. Thus, the upstream DNA (previously named a dominant control or locus activation region, now denoted a locus control region) conferred the ability to express human β-globin at high levels dependent on copy number on every mouse carrying the construct. We report here an investigation of chicken βA-globin gene expression in transgenic mice. A 4.5-kb fragment carrying the βA-globin gene and its downstream enhancer6–9, without any far upstream elements, is sufficient to ensure that every transgenic mouse expresses chicken globin messenger RNA at levels proportional to the transgene copy number. Thus the chicken DNA elements that allow position-independent expression can function in mice. In marked contrast to the human β cluster, these elements are no farther than 2 kb from the gene. The location of the elements within the cluster demonstrates that position independence can be mediated by DNA that does not define a gene cluster boundary.
Spectral imagery in the far ultraviolet: results from a sounding rocket experiment

We describe a new technique of space based spectral imagery for a spinning platform. The technique uses tomographic inversion to produce a 2D spectral image using a novel imaging spectrograph. The spectrograph uses a single optical element with a large field of view. Our technique delivers high throughput due to continuous observation of the scene at all wavelengths. The challenge of spectral imaging is to obtain 3D information from a time series of 2D data. In our technique, we obtain spectral information along one detector dimension, while two dimensions of spatial information are combined into the second dimension of the detector for each time step. With the spin axis of the spacecraft located at the center of the scene, we recover the 2D of spatial information from a series of these individual 'snapshots'. We will report on the results obtained on May 8, 1997 by a sounding rocket experiment using this technique in the 80- 140nm wavelength range, on the Scorpio constellation.
Wavelength Bandwidth and Other Design Aspects for Film–Substrate Reflection Polarizers

The performance characteristics of film-substrate reflection polarizers consisting of an absorbing film on a metallic substrate are investigated. Monochromatic polarized light is obtained for certain discrete values of incidence angle and film thickness, corresponding to given values of the optical constants and the wavelength. The departures from perfect polarization due to operation at off-design wavelengths are examined. Three additional criteria are also employed to appraise polarizer quality. It is found that by proper choice of the extinction coefficient of the film, all four criteria of quality can be satisfied. For substrates having intermediate values of reflectance, very small film extinction coefficients appear to be appropriate. When the substrate is highly reflecting, somewhat larger extinction coefficients are required.
Cannabinoid withdrawal in mice: inverse agonist vs neutral antagonist.

Previous reports shows rimonabant’s inverse properties may be a limiting factor for treating cannabinoid dependence. To overcome this limitation, neutral antagonists were developed, to address mechanisms by which an inverse agonist and neutral antagonist elicit withdrawal. The objective of this study is to introduce an animal model to study cannabinoid dependence by incorporating traditional methodologies and profiling novel cannabinoid ligands with distinct pharmacological properties/modes of action by evaluating their pharmacological effects on CB1-receptor (CB1R) related physiological/behavioral endpoints. The cannabinergic AM2389 was acutely characterized in the tetrad (locomotor activity, analgesia, inverted screen/catalepsy bar test, and temperature), with some comparisons made to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Tolerance was measured in mice repeatedly administered AM2389. Antagonist-precipitated withdrawal was characterized in cannabinoid-adapted mice induced by either centrally acting antagonists, rimonabant and AM4113, or an antagonist with limited brain penetration, AM6545. In the tetrad, AM2389 was more potent and longer acting than THC, suggesting a novel approach for inducing dependence. Repeated administration of AM2389 led to tolerance by attenuating hypothermia that was induced by acute AM2389 administration. Antagonist-precipitated withdrawal signs were induced by rimonabant or AM4113, but not by AM6545. Antagonist-precipitated withdrawal was reversed by reinstating AM2389 or THC. These findings suggest cannabinoid-precipitated withdrawal may not be ascribed to the inverse properties of rimonabant, but rather to rapid competition with the agonist at the CB1R. This withdrawal syndrome is likely centrally mediated, since only the centrally acting CB1R antagonists elicited withdrawal, i.e., such responses were absent after the purported peripherally selective CB1R antagonist AM6545.
The homogeneity ranges, order-disorder transition, and structures of the nonstoichiometric monosulfides of zirconium

Abstract Two structures are known for defect zirconium monosulfides, the hypostoichiometric sulfide with the WC-type structure and the hyperstoichiometric sulfide with a NaCl-type superstructure. The approximate (±0.02 forS/Zr) homogeneity limits for the phases were determined for carefully equilibrated samples cooled to room temperature. The order-disorder transition in hyperstoichiometric monosulfide was observed to occur at about 1250°C (±about 20°C), and the refined superstructure was determined to be the CdCl 2 vacancy ordering by Rietveld full-profile analysis.
Utilities of gossip across organizational levels

Gossip is a subject that has been studied by researchers from an array of disciplines with various foci and methods. We measured the content of language use by members of a competitive sports team across 18 months, integrating qualitative ethnographic methods with quantitative sampling and analysis. We hypothesized that the use of gossip will vary significantly depending on whether it is used for self-serving or group-serving purposes. Our results support a model of gossip derived from multilevel selection theory that expects gossip to serve group-beneficial rules when rewards are partitioned at the group level on a scale that permits mutual monitoring. We integrate our case study with earlier studies of gossip conducted by anthropologists, psychologists, and management researchers.
Field Tests of an Airborne Remote Sensing Technique for Measuring the Distribution of Liquid Water in Convective Cloud

Abstract A comparison has been made between the distribution of liquid water in maritime cumulus clouds deduced from radiometric measurements below cloud base and that measured directly by penetrating the clouds at various altitudes. Because the clouds available during the field program were changing quite rapidly, the comparison could only be made on a statistical basis and at coarse spatial resolution. However, on this basis excellent agreement was observed between liquid water values given by the direct and the remote sensing techniques.
Lymph Node Analysis in Esophageal Resection: American College of Surgeons Oncology Group Z0060 Trial

Background The American Joint Committee on Cancer staging of esophageal cancer has been criticized for not establishing a minimum standard for lymphadenectomy, and for relying on location of nodes involved rather than their number. The objective of this study was to review the current practice of American surgeons with regard to lymph node assessment during esophageal resection. Methods The operative and pathology reports of patients who underwent staging by computed tomography and fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography and subsequent resection for esophageal cancer (multiinstitutional American College of Surgeons Oncology Group Z0060 trial) were analyzed. Results One hundred forty-five patients underwent resection. Operative and pathology reports were unavailable in 11 patients. The results of the remaining 134 resections (Ivor-Lewis, n=64; transhiatal, n=59; other, n=11) were reviewed. Overall, 13 ± 9 (mean ± standard deviation) lymph nodes were evaluated per patient. More lymph nodes were evaluated in patients undergoing Ivor-Lewis (15 ± 9) than transhiatal esophagectomy (9 ± 7; p p Conclusions There is considerable variability and room to improve in the extent of resection and pathologic evaluation of esophagectomy specimens. A uniform standard for esophageal cancer resection is warranted to improve the precision and value of pathologic staging.
The enzymatic oxidation of Desferal to a nitroxide free radical.

Abstract Desferrioxamine mesylate (Desferal), a transition metal ion chelator, has been used to inhibit the in vitro redox cycling of transition metal ions. ESR spectroscopy was utilized to detect and identify Desferal's one-electron oxidation product. We demonstrate that a horseradish peroxidase/H2O2 system, a xanthine oxidase/hypoxanthine system, and a hydroxyl radical-generating system are all capable of oxidizing Desferal to a nitroxide free radical. The same 9-line ESR spectrum (g = 2.0065, aN = 7.85 G, aH(2) = 6.35 G) was detected in all of the above systems. We, therefore, stress that care must be taken when using Desferal as a transition metal ion chelator to keep its concentration low enough to minimize these reactions, or to use a different metal ion chelator.
Heat capacity measurements from 10 to 300 K and derived thermodynamic functions of lyophilized cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae including the absolute entropy and the entropy of formation at 298.15 K

Abstract Heat capacity measurements using an adiabatic calorimeter have been made from 7 to 310 K on a carefully prepared specimen of lyophilized cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast). From these measurements, a value of 1.304 J K−1 g−1 has been obtained for the absolute entropy of yeast cells at 298.15 K, based on third-law calculations. Chemical analysis of the cells yielded an empirical chemical formula for the cellular stoichiometry, which has been expressed as an ion-containing carbon mole, (ICC-mol). A value of 34.167 J K−1·ICC-mol−1 for the absolute entropy of this mass of cells and of −151.46 J K−1·ICC-mol−1 for the entropy of formation has been calculated. The absolute entropy/g of the yeast cells falls within the range of those for simple biological molecules like sugars and amino acids and more complex biopolymers like proteins. We conclude that the thermodynamic effect of cellular organization in the dried cells is negligible.
Parasite presence acts as a proximate cue in the nest-site selection process of the solitary digger wasp, Ammophila dysmica (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae)

Nest-site selection by the solitary ground-nesting wasp Ammophila dysmicaMenke was studied during 1982–1986 in California's Sierra Nevada Mountains. Digging females detected and discriminated among members of a complex of insect intruders, including a number of predators and parasites. In response to some natural enemies, wasps sometimes permanently abandoned nests under construction. These selective nest abandonments reduced the mean number of cleptoparasitic chrysidid wasps, Argochrysis armillaBohart, attending the excavation of completed nests. The number of A. armillaattending a nest excavation correlated positively with the probability of nest parasitism by this species. Selective nest abandonment may reduce parasitism rates.
Commentary on ‘Topical treatments for cutaneous warts’

This is a commentary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Gibbs S, Harvey I. Topical treatments for cutaneous warts. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD001781. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001781.pub2. Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Summary article. Copyright © 2011 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Neutron-Diffraction Study of Dilute Chromium Alloys with Iron

Results of neutron-diffraction studies of Cr-rich Cr(Fe) alloys are presented. The addition of Fe to Cr lowers the Ne\'el temperature, increases the amplitude of the magnetization wave, and increases the wave vector of the magnetization wave until it becomes commensurate with the chemical periodicity. A first-order phase change is seen in a Cr(2.3% Fe) specimen near 240\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K.
The role of Polish environmental funds: Too generous or too restrictive?

In many countries, and particularly in the economies in transition in Central and Eastern Europe, public environmental funds play an important role in financing environmental investments. These funds provide subsidized financing through grants and soft loans in response to market failures that limit environmental investors' access to capital markets or poorly account for the benefits of environmental improvements. The principal question explored in the paper is whether environmental funds are too generous or too selective in co-financing environmental projects. The authors conducted a survey of applicants whose applications to Polish environmental funds were rejected following appraisal by the funds in 1994. Applicants were contacted to determine whether they had been able to close the financing 'gap' by the end of 1995 that had resulted from the rejection of their application by the Fund. Survey results indicate that a large majority of respondents have secured substitute gap financing and proceeded with their planned investments, suggesting that the fund's assistance was not essential for these projects to be implemented. Generally, the financing gap had been closed by financing from another environmental fund, from own resources, and less frequently from the same fund (after resubmitting a modified proposal). Only in few instances have proposed projects been abandoned.
The role of sulfur in the air embrittlement of nickel and its alloys

A mechanism leading to the embrittlement of nickel and its alloys following high temperature air exposure is proposed. This mechanism involves the internal oxidation of sulfides to oxides, accompanied by a release of embrittling sulfur onto the grain boundaries. The mechanism is shown to work in a model system of nickel containing MnS precipitates, in which a ring of internal oxidation 250 µm in depth forms during 200 hours air exposure at 1000 °C. Auger analysis shows very high sulfur levels on grain boundaries within this region, but also reveals considerable sulfur concentrations beyond it. This massive release of free sulfur had the effect of rendering the alloy brittle over the entire temperature range investigated (25 to 1000 °C). The contribution of this mechanism to the known air embrittlement of pure nickel (Ni270) and a nickel base superalloy (IN738) is investigated. Although enhanced O/Ni peak height ratios were observed in the air exposed samples of both materials, the only significant sulfur concentrations were observed on the surfaces of grain boundary cavities formed in Ni270. However, the starting sulfur levels were extremely low in both cases, and the mechanism may contribute to high temperature air embrittlement in other systems.
Crystallization Characteristics Of Phase Change Nanoparticle Arrays Fabricated By Self-Assembly Based Lithography

Phase change nanodot arrays were fabricated using self-assembly diblock copolymer template PS-b-PMMA (polystyrene-poly (methyl-methacrylate)) and studied by time resolved X-ray diffraction. The size of the nanodots was less than 15nm in diameter with 40nm spacing. This method is quite flexible regarding the patterned materials, and can be used on different substrates. The crystallization behavior of small scale phase change nanodot arrays was studied for different materials, such as Ge15Sb85, Ge2Sb2Te5 and Ag and In doped Sb2Te. It was found that the nanodots had higher crystallization temperatures compared to their corresponding blanket films and crystallized over a broader temperature range.
The complications of high-dose corticosteroid therapy in neurosurgical patients: a prospective study.

We studied prospectively the complications of high-dose corticosteroid administration in 121 consecutive neurosurgical patients. Dexamethasone was begun in a daily dosage of 16 mg in 36 patients, 40 mg in 43 patients, and 80 mg in 42 patients, with an antacid, and was appropriately tapered. There were three major complications (incidence, 2.4%), with 1 death definitely attributable to corticosteroid therapy (0.8%). Two of the major complications occurred in patients with previous or concurrent upper gastrointestinal disease. Nineteen patients who were maintained on long-term (mean 206 – 56 days) daily doses of 40 mg or more for the treatment of malignant brain tumors remained free of complications. There was no evidence that increased intracranial pressure, diminished level of consciousness, or higher dosage schedules increased the risk. High-dose dexamethasone therapy is safe in neurosurgical patients. One must use caution, however, when the history suggests gastrointestinal erosive disease.
Viral Diagnostics and Antiviral Therapy in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Viral infections are important causes of morbidity and mortality in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Some viruses, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal viruses, are acquired from the healthcare or community in the midst of or after HSCT. Other viruses, such as the herpes-virus family, establish latency after resolution of primary infection but then may reactivate during the immunosuppression that occurs with HSCT. Due to the improved sensitivity and turn-around time with PCR-based molecular diagnostic methods, traditional viral diagnostic methods such as viral culture and rapid shell vial are rapidly being replaced or supplemented. Prophylactic and preemptive strategies are increasingly used to limit reactivation of viruses that have established latency. Improvements in diagnostics result in earlier viral detection and antiviral initiation which may improve outcomes. Newly identified viruses such as human metapneumovirus are being increasingly recognized as pathogens in HSCT recipients. Treatment strategies for viral pathogens continue to change as our understanding of these viral diseases improves.
Minimal Delay Traffic Grooming in WDM Optical Star Networks

All-optical networks face the challenge of reducing slower opto-electronic conversions by managing assignment of traffic streams to wavelengths in an intelligent manner, while maximizing the bandwidth resources utilization. This challenge becomes harder in networks closer to the end users that have insufficient data to saturate single wavelengths as well as traffic streams outnumbering the usable wavelengths. Traffic grooming has been proposed as a possible solution in the network closer to the end users. However, it requires costly traffic analysis at access nodes. We study the problem of traffic grooming that reduces the need to analyze traffic, for a class of network architecture mostly used by Metropolitan Area Networks; the star network. We first prove that the problem is NP-hard, then provide an efficient greedy heuristics that can be used to intelligently groom traffics at the LANs to reduce latency at the access nodes. Simulation results show that our greedy heuristics achieves a near-optimal solution.
Creating the taste of place in the United States: can we learn from the French?

In the United States, there is a growing awareness of the implications of our globalized food system, a system that incorporates all manner of agriculture, food distribution, food processing and transformation, and consumption. The ever increasing distance between where our food is produced and where it is consumed has helped spur a movement to develop a system of place based foods. Right now multiple models are in play, including farmers markets, community supported agriculture, and the localvore movement. This article will do a close examination of another model from France, the French system of appellation d’origine controlee (AOC); nationally regulated by the French Ministry of Agriculture it supports and protects foods and drinks with unique links to particular territories. The AOC system is based on geographically distinct and historically specific food and drink found throughout France. By closely examining one AOC product—Comte cheese produced in the rural agricultural region in Jura—the authors consider the possibilities for an AOC-style system in the United States.
Knowledge-Based Segmentation Of Texture Images With Application To Seismic Data Interpretation

In this paper, we discuss two control schemes, based on (1) centrally controlkd region-growing and (2) iterative quadtree splitting, for incorporating knowledge-based processes into the- segmentation of texture images. An important feature of these two schemes is that knowledge about the nature of the images is directly involved in the partition process rather than being used afterwards to label the resulting segments of the partition. Prototype systems which we implemented for the automatic interpretation of seismic sections are described in detail. A specific application of these systems on a test section of real seismic data from the Gulf of Mexico is presented. Test runs on the data have shown that both schemes give a much improved segmentation result over the one obtained by a conventional approach.
Phase-Switched All-Optical Flip-Flops Using Two-Input Bistable Resonators

We show that switching between the two stable states of an optical flip-flop, made using a two-input Kerr resonator, can be realized through pure phase modulation. The proposed switching mechanism is compatible with cross-phase modulation induced by set and reset pulses for realization of an ultrafast, passive, all-optical memory element.
Absence of potassium conductance in central myelinated axons.

Two voltage-dependent changes in ionic permeability are responsible for the action potential in squid giant axon1. The depolarization phase of the action potential is due to an initial increase in sodium ion permeability, and repolarization is primarily the result of a later increase in potassium permeability. However, voltage-clamp experiments on mammalian peripheral nodes of Ranvier indicate that potassium conductances (gk) may be minimal or lacking for intact mammalian peripheral myelinated axons2–4. Repolarization for these fibres has been explained in terms of a rapid sodium inactivation and large leakage current3. When the myelin around these fibres is acutely disrupted, an immediate and prominent gk appears4. Following demyelination, gk blocking agents have been shown to reduce late outward currents that are not present in normal myelinated fibres5. This suggests that K+ channels are present in the axonal membrane under the myelin but are ‘masked’ in normal peripheral myelinated axons. Previous studies have not investigated the presence or role of K+ channels in central myelinated axons. We here establish that gk is not detectable in mammalian dorsal column axons.
Incidence of postvitrectomy macular edema using optical coherence tomography.

Objective To evaluate the incidence, effect on visual recovery, and predisposing risk factors of postvitrectomy macular edema (ME). Design Prospective cohort study. Participants One-hundred nine eyes undergoing nonemergent vitrectomy surgery. Methods Eyes were evaluated for postoperative day 1 inflammation, 1-month retinal thickness using optical coherence tomography, and preoperative and 1-month postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Macular edema was defined as central subfield thickness ≥272 μm. Main Outcome Measures Retinal thickness, inflammation, and BCVA. Results Incidence of ME on optical coherence tomography was 47% (95% confidence interval [CI], 37%–56%). Mean 1-month visual acuity improved 3.3 lines (0.33 logarithm of minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] units) to 20/80 +1 (0.58±0.46 logMAR units) from 20/150 –2 (0.91±0.63 logMAR units) before surgery ( P 3 , respectively. Severity of postoperative inflammation predicted retinal thickness at 1 month ( P P = 0.02). Eyes with greater reduction in CSF (or CPT) from baseline experienced more rapid visual recovery ( r = –0.36; 95% CI, –0.61 to –0.06; P = 0.02). Conclusions Postvitrectomy ME is common and delays visual recovery. Degree of postoperative inflammation is an important risk factor for ME and, in this series, was increased in the setting of intraocular epinephrine. Efforts to reduce or prevent inflammation after vitrectomy should be beneficial and therefore are encouraged. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Using intermediate pT measurements for investigating hadron production at RHIC

We report preliminary results on identified hadrons using the ring imaging Cerenkov (RICH) and the time projection chamber (TPC) of the STAR detector. We aim to investigate hadron production mechanisms in high energy heavy-ion collisions as a function of transverse momentum (p T ) and centrality for strange and non-strange flavours. We demonstrate the ability of the RICH which allows identification of π, K, p in the intermediate p T region, complementing the linear energy loss method (dE/dx) of the TPC. Preliminary measurements for Au+Au collisions at √s = 200 GeV performed with the RICH, such as hadron spectra and baryon-to-meson ratios as a function of both p T and collision centrality, are compared to models proposing different hadron production mechanisms.
Initial experience with Dargent's operation: the radical vaginal trachelectomy

Abstract Objective. To report on our initial experience with radical vaginal trachelectomy for patients with early-stage cervical cancer. Methods. Data on patients undergoing radical vaginal trachelectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy from 11/01 to 12/06 were collected in a prospective database. Results. Forty-three women with early-stage cervical cancer were operated on with the intent of fertility preservation with radical vaginal trachelectomy. Median age was 31 years (range, 20–40 years). FIGO stage for the group was: IB1, 28; IA2, 7; IA1 with lymphovascular invasion, 8. Histologic type included: squamous, 24; adenocarcinoma, 16; adenosquamous, 3. Parity for the group was: nullipara, 35; one child, 7; two children, 1. Median BMI was 24 kg/m 2 (range, 19–42 kg/m 2 ). Two patients (5%) underwent completion hysterectomy due to extensive endocervical disease. The median OR time was 330 min (range, 220–480 min). Median pelvic lymph node count was 25 (range, 9–52). Median hospital stay was 3 days (range, 3–7 days). Four patients (9%) required a second intervention for a perioperative complication. Five patients (12%) underwent adjuvant chemoradiation for pathologic risk factors determined on final pathology. Eleven (79%) of 14 women who were trying to get pregnant were able to conceive. Four (36%) required assisted reproductive techniques to conceive. Four patients delivered by cesarean section after 35 weeks and four patients are currently pregnant. With a median follow-up of 21 months in patients treated with trachelectomy alone, we have had one recurrence. Conclusions. Radical vaginal trachelectomy can be incorporated into gynecologic oncology practices and appears to be a reasonable option for patients with early cervical cancer who desire to maintain their fertility. It should be discussed with candidate patients during preoperative consultation.
Multiple heparanases are expressed in polymorphonuclear cells.

Background. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans are complex cell surface molecules containing polysaccharides called heparan sulfate. Lysosomes, platelet granules, and neutrophils (polymorphonuclear cells) contain heparanases that degrade heparan sulfate. There are at least two groups of heparanases: connective tissue–activating-peptide (CTAP-III) and mammalian heparanase (hpa). The purpose of this study was to quantify the expression of both CTAP-III and hpa in neutrophils and their heparanase activity. Materials and methods. Neutrophils were isolated from whole blood, total RNA collected, and reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) performed. Primers were designed for CTAP-III and hpa-1 sequences from GenBank. Neutrophil lysate underwent Western blot analysis (and quantification) with antibodies to the C-terminus of CTAP-III and the 50-kDa subunit of hpa1. Chromatography separated these components of lysate, which were then tested for heparanase activity. Results. Both CTAP-III (281 bp) and hpa-1 (485 bp) messenger RNA (mRNA) were expressed equally by neutrophils with use of quantitative RT-PCR. By Western blot analysis, a CTAP-III-like protein was detected at 80 kDa, and hpa-1 was detected as a 50-kDa protein, with expression not significantly different (P > 0.05). Heparanase activity was significantly different (P < 0.0001) for the 50-kDa hpa-1 protein (1.51 × 10−6 μmol/min) and the 80-kDa CTAP-III-like protein (0.85 × 10−6 μmol/min). Conclusions. Human neutrophils express mRNA and protein for both a CTAP-III-like protein and hpa-1. Although expressed in similar quantity for mRNA and protein, Hpa-1 was more active as heparanase than the CTAP-III-like protein. With more than one class of heparanase in their granules, neutrophils may be able to modify different kinds of heparan sulfate chains.
Sensor integration architectures for homeland security

Achieving effective Homeland Security requires the instantiation of automatic, intelligent and vigilant systems of systems, which integrate a diverse array of sensor, signal, and information processing technologies. While the cost and performance envelopes of in-situ and remote sensing systems continuously improve, synergistically combining these sensory inputs to provide actionable, utilitarian information presents significant but tractable architecting challenges. This paper explores Homeland Security 's critical enabling sensing technologies. It also examines and analyzes in greater depth critical communication and information infrastructure challenges. Only when new communications frameworks, which aggregate relevant data, generate and disseminate mission-critical information products, will we achieve the kind of tailored situational awareness Homeland Security requires.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
COMPARATIVE STUDIES ON THE NITROGEN SOLUBILITY OF MUNG BEANS, PEA BEANS AND RED KIDNEY BEANS

SUMMARY The effect of pH and some salts on the extraction of nitrogenous matter from mung beans, pea beans and red kidney beans has been studied. The nitrogen solubilities of these beans were found to be strongly pH-dependent. The amount of nitrogen extracted at alkaline pH is greater than that produced at either neutral or acidic PH. Minimum points of nitrogen dispersion occurred at pH 4.0. Salts dispersed more nitrogenous constituents from the beans than did water. Dilute solutions of sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, calcium chloride and magnesium chloride were found to have an inhibitory effect on the dispersion of the nitrogenous matter of the beans. Alkaline salts such as sodium carbonate, disodium phosphate and sodium citrate appeared to be fairly effective dispersing agents, and the exact amount of nitrogen extracted was dependent upon the concentration of the salt solution.