cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of surrounding medium on radio frequency (RF) heating uniformity of corn flour

Abstract Radio frequency (RF) heat treatment holds great potential for packaged food powder pasteurization by providing rapid and volumetric heating with a high penetration depth. Edge and corner overheating create high temperature differences throughout the product, which is a major drawback in its industrial applications. In this study, the effect of the surrounding media (air, DI water, and soybean oil), medium level, heating mode, electrode gap, and heating time on the heating uniformity was investigated by determining the thermal distributions, heating uniformity index, and heating rate at the top and middle layers of RF heated corn flour. The thermal images indicated that less edge and corner overheating occurred when corn flour container was immersed in soybean oil. A higher heating rate (7.77 and 9.86 °C/min at the top and middle layers, respectively) and a better heating uniformity (as indicated by lower heating uniformity indices: 0.047 and 0.037 at the top and middle layers, respectively) were obtained for the corn flour heated in soybean oil with an 11 cm electrode gap compared to those heated in air. The study proposed a method for improving the heating uniformity of RF heated food powders which can be easily implemented in industrial applications of RF treatment.
Probabilistic effects of porosity and chemical kinetics on the shock initiation of an octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) based explosive

We investigate the effects of porosity and chemical reactivity on the shock initiation of an HMX (octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine)-based polymer bonded explosive due to thin flyer impact using two-dimensional mesoscale simulations. Microstructural samples are computationally generated, and the calculated shock response is compared to experiments. The sample dimensions are 0.1 × 1.05 mm2, and each sample accounts for grain scale heterogeneities, including randomized grain morphology and pore spacing. Simulations are performed using the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian multi-physics code ALE3D. Chemistry and equation of states are handled with LLNL's thermochemical code Cheetah. We employ a modified Arrhenius-based chemical kinetics model that scales the temperature exponent fitting parameter with flyer shock conditions. This new model is calibrated to the mean response of experimental shock initiation thresholds for three separate Kapton flyer thicknesses. A simplified shock initiation criterion is proposed, which classifies the macroscale initiation response based on cross-sectional temperature profiles of the shocked sample. This criterion is used to further investigate the probabilistic response of the sample to variations in the mean porosity and chemical kinetics rate, and we find an inverse correlation between the shock pressure and the confidence interval of the experimental threshold velocity. The methodology presented in this work for quantifying the probabilistic nature of shock initiation is material agnostic. These mesoscale studies may be used to inform continuum scale models and expedite the development of future, tailored energetic formulations.
Total Synthesis of Himastatin

The synthesis and study of antibiotic natural products with unique structures and mechanisms of action represents a proven strategy to combat the public health crisis posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The natural product himastatin is an antibiotic with an unusual homodimeric structure that presents a significant synthetic challenge. We report the concise total synthesis of himastatin by a newly developed final-stage dimerization strategy that was inspired by a detailed consideration of its biogenesis. Combining our bio-inspired dimerization approach with a modular synthesis enabled expedient access to a number of designed derivatives of himastatin, including synthetic probes that provide insight into its antibiotic activity.
Primary care physicians' knowledge, attitude and perception towards homosexuality in Singapore

Abstract Aims This study aim to gain insights into attitudes, acceptance and knowledge levels among family physicians toward homosexual people, which are important as they may affect care among this at-risk group. Methods An anonymized self-administered questionnaire in English was posted with the assistance of the College of Family Physicians Singapore in February 2015 to its 1 529 members with self-addressed, pre-stamped envelopes for replies. The questionnaire included demographic questions such as age group, gender, religion, ethnicity, marital status and place of practice. Questions and scales that measured attitude, acceptance, knowledge and perception of colleagues who are homosexual were also included in the questionnaire. Results 451 responses (29.5%) were obtained, of which 441 were valid (28.84%). About 52.8% of participants were found to have negative, 8.9% neutral and 38.3% positive attitudes toward homosexuality. Most (75.6%) were accepting of homosexuals, with 9.3% neutral and 15.1% not accepting. Knowledge levels were poor, with a mean score of 6.9 out of a maximum of 13. A strong correlation was found between the attitudes towards lesbians and gay men (ATLG) and acceptance of homosexuals scales (r = 0.69, P Conclusion Despite majority of family physicians having negative attitudes towards homosexuality, most are able to accept homosexuality. With better education in sexual orientation in the medical educational curriculum, the increase in knowledge will lead to better care for people with homosexuality.
Carbon nanotube electron sources for electron microscopes

Publisher Summary Electron sources were constructed from individual multi walled carbon nanotubes with closed caps and thoroughly cleaned surfaces. Nanotubes from both chemical vapor deposition growth and arc discharge growth were investigated. These emitters provide a highly stable emission current up to a threshold current of a few microamperes. At too-large currents several processes occurs such as splitting, breaking, and cap closing. The emission process is field emission for a work function of 5eV. The electron optical performance is highly beneficial for use of carbon nanotubes as high-brightness point sources in electron microscopes and advantageous with respect to state-of-the-art electron sources. The industrial process is needed to mount a closed-cap carbon nanotube inside an electron miroscope so that it provides an electron beam with a cone around the optical axis of the microscope. This requires not only that the carbon nanotube is mounted in a direction parallel to the optical axis, but also that the cap structure is defined such that the electrons are emitted primarily in a forward direction.
Examining the Echolalia Literature: Where Do Speech-Language Pathologists Stand?

Purpose Echolalia is a common element in the communication of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Recent contributions to the literature reflect significant disagreement regarding how echolalia should be defined, understood, and managed. The purpose of this review article is to give speech-language pathologists and others a comprehensive view of the available perspectives on echolalia. Method Published literature from the disciplines of behavioral intervention, linguistics, and speech-language intervention is discussed. Special areas of focus include operational definitions, rationales associated with various approaches, specific procedures used to treat or study echolalic behavior, and reported conclusions. Conclusions Dissimilarities in the definition and understanding of echolalia have led to vastly different approaches to management. Evidence-based practice protocols are available to guide speech-language interventionists in their work with individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Racial Minorities Are More Likely Than Whites to Report Lack of Provider Recommendation for Colon Cancer Screening

Racial Minorities Are More Likely Than Whites to Report Lack of Provider Recommendation for Colon Cancer Screening
Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is defined as measurable bleeding from a source distal to the ligament of Treitz. LGIB is a broad term used to encompass the spectrum of symptoms ranging from minimal bleeding noticed on bathroom tissues associated with hemorrhoids to massive bleeding encountered with diverticular hemorrhage. Etiologies range from the rare small-bowel tumors to the frequently identified diverticular sources. To complicate matters further, the bleeding may be intermittent, leading to a challenging diagnostic and management dilemma.
Insider Ownership and Pension Funding: An Empirical Analysis

Few prior studies of pension funding have considered the agency conflicts that might affect pension plan management and the role of pension plans within the overall capital structure of firms. The primary purpose of this study is to determine if a relation exists between the level of insider ownership and pension plan funding levels. More specifically, the study examines whether managers make pension funding decisions based on overall corporate financial policies and if the decision varies depending on the degree of insider ownership. The results of the study suggest that pension plan funding levels are affected by the levels of managerial stock ownership, but that the relation is non-linear. At the lowest levels of insider ownership, a signifi- cant and negative relation exists. However, at moderate levels of insider ownership, a positive relation is observed. Finally, no relation is observed at insider ownership levels above 10 percent. This may be a result of the competing effects offsetting one another. These results are consistent with both the alignment of interest hypothesis and the managerial entrenchment hypothesis regarding the impact of insider owner- ship and provide evidence that managers do make pension funding decisions based
Outcome of anesthetic management for children with craniofacial deformities

Background: The challenge for anesthetic management for children with craniofacial deformities is to develop com- prehensive anesthetic care. The purposes of this study were to review the authors' experience with airway management and ventilator support and evaluate outcome during the perioperative period among these patients at the Tawanchai Center, Srinagarind Hospital. Methods: A retrospective (2005-2009), descriptive study was conducted to analyze the anesthetic management and perioperative outcomes among children with craniofacial deformities at the Tawanchai Center. Techniques for airway management included direct laryngoscope (DL), DL with stylet, fiber-optic bronchoscope (FOB), laryngeal mask airway, retrograde intubation, a combination of these techniques and more than one anesthesiologist. Results: Forty-five children with craniofacial deformities were classified as having the following: craniosynostosis; craniofacial microsomia; Treacher-Collins syndrome (TCS); coloboma of the eye, heart defects, atresia choanae, retarded growth and/or development, genital and/or urinary abnormalities, ear abnormalities and deafness (CHARGE) syndrome; frontoethmoidal encephalomeningocele; Pierre Robin sequence; and craniofacial cleft. Most of the patients underwent induction of anesthesia by inhalation of an anesthetic agent. The children with TCS were the most difficult group with regard to airway management with DL view (13%), and multiple airway accessories and intubation techniques were needed. The two most common methods for management of difficult airway obstructions were the use of stylet and FOB. No complications occurred during intubation and minor complications were observed during the perioperative period. Conclusion: A successful outcome depended on the provision of interdisciplinary craniofacial team management, comprehensive anesthetic evaluation and management, well-informed and cooperative children and supportive family members.
Current issues and future trends in surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma

alone (P < 0.001), with minimal loss in specificity. The variable effectiveness of ultrasound may be related to differences in operator experience and technique, with many patients in the United States receiving their ultrasound examinations in local community centers instead of tertiary care centers. Furthermore, the ability of ultrasound to accurately visualize the liver in patients with morbid obesity or a very nodular liver may be impaired. In contrast to current guidelines, these studies suggest that AFP may play an important role in HCC surveillance among patients with cirrhosis. It is clear that better surveillance tools, including more accurate biomarkers or more cost-effective advanced imaging with low or no risk of radiation, are necessary to help improve the sensitivity of finding tumors at an early stage. Des-c carboxyprothrombin (DCP) and lectin-bound AFP (AFP-L3%) are two potential biomarkers that have been proposed. In a nested case-control study among patients in the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-Term Treatment Against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) Trial, DCP and AFP had sensitivities of 74% and 61%, respectively, for HCC at any stage, which was increased to 91% by using the two markers in combination. 8 However, AFP was demonstrated to be more sensitive than DCP and AFP-L3% for the diagnosis of early HCC in a large, multicenter case-control study. 9 Further studies are necessary to better evaluate the role of new biomarkers, including AFP-L3% and DCP, prior to their routine use in clinical practice. Some studies have proposed that computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be more sensitive as alternative imaging studies for the detection of HCC. A systematic review found that the sensitivity of CT for HCC at any stage was 68% (95% confidence interval [CI], 55%-80%) and that of MRI was 81% (95% CI 70%
Managing Individual Performance: A Strategic Perspective

Designing and implementing an approach to managing employees that ensures they are a source of sustainable competitive advantage is the objective of "strategic human resource management". A strategic human resource management system reflects the concerns of multiple stakeholders, is linked to the organization's specific business strategy, represents an integrated and coherent set of HR practices, and it is continuously monitored, evaluated and revised . This chapter describes the implications of these four features of strategic human resource management (HRM) systems, focusing on organizations pursuing strategies that require innovation . We show how an integrated HRM system addresses four major tasks : managing behaviors, managing motivation, managing competencies, and managing opportunities . After illustrating how these tasks are shaped by a strategy of innovation, we consider some of the key challenges that arise when applying this framework . Finally, we note that the performance management system should be monitored and evaluated to assess how effectively it (a) sends a clear, consistent message to employees and (b) represents the concerns of multiple stakeholders. Taking corrective action based on performance against these goals is essential for the organization's continuous learning and improvement .
Placental transmission and fetal distribution of saccharin.

Abstract Radioactive saccharin administered by intravenous infusion to rhesus monkeys in late pregnancy was found to cross the placenta rapidly but to a limited extent. It was distributed to all fetal tissues with the exception of the central nervous system but did not appear to be concentrated in any particular tissue. In contrast to its rapid excretion by the maternal kidney, saccharin was cleared very slowly by the fetus, and appreciable fetal levels were still present nearly 5 hours after the infusion ended and 2 hours after maternal levels became negligible. Though no evidence of adverse fetal effects of saccharin has been reported, the slow rate of fetal clearance suggests that considerable accumulation might result from repetitive maternal ingestion.
Pneumonia in Rats Due to Infection with Corynebacterium kutscheri

A spontaneous outbreak of infection with C. kutscheri occurred in a commercial rat colony. Clinical signs were emaciation, hyperpnea, nasal and ocular encrustations, humping of the back, sluggishne...
The Virgin Mary in the Ministry of Jesus and the Early Church according to the Earliest Life of the Virgin

In 1986, Michel van Esbroeck published a remarkable new Life of the Virgin that not only is among the most profound and eloquent Mariological writings of early Byzantium but also presents a useful compendium of early apocryphal traditions about Mary. Some of the Life's episodes are already well known from their original sources, such as the Protevangelium of James and the early dormition apocrypha, but many other extrabiblical traditions appearing in this Life of the Virgin are not otherwise attested in early Christian literature. This is true especially of the section that overlaps with the gospels, where the Life expands the canonical narratives in ways unprecedented (to my knowledge) in Christian apocryphal literature. By writing Mary into the story at key points and augmenting several of her more minor appearances, the Life portrays Mary as a central figure in her son's ministry and also as a leader of the nascent church. The result is a veritable “Gospel of Mary” in the section of the Life that emphasizes Mary's essential contributions to her son's earthly mission and her leadership of the apostles in the early Christian community: the Life gives a brief account of the same events recorded in the canonical gospels, but with the Virgin Mary brought to the fore at nearly every instance. The origins of these traditions are not entirely clear, and while they may be the work of the Life's author, it is equally possible that they reflect now lost apocryphal traditions about Mary that once circulated in late antiquity. In any case, the attention that this earliest Life of the Virgin lavishes on the activities of Mary and other women as important leaders in the formation of Christianity is rather striking and quite exceptional among the literature of Christian late antiquity. In its emphasis on the roles played by these women it represents a surprising ancient predecessor to much of the recent work in New Testament scholarship to recover the importance of women in the early Christian movement.
Purification and functional characterization of the human N-CoR complex: the roles of HDAC3, TBL1 and TBLR1

Corepressors N-CoR and SMRT participate in diverse repression pathways and exist in large protein complexes including HDAC3, TBL1 and TBLR1. However, the roles of these proteins in SMRT–N-CoR complex function are largely unknown. Here we report the purification and functional characterization of the human N-CoR complex. The purified N-CoR complex contains 10–12 associated proteins, including previously identified components and a novel actin-binding protein IR10. We show that TBL1/TBLR1 associates with N-CoR through two independent interactions: the N-terminal region and the C-terminal WD-40 repeats interact with the N-CoR RD1 and RD4 region, respectively. In vitro, TBL1/TBLR1 bind histones H2B and H4, and, importantly, repression by TBL1/TBLR1 correlates with their interaction with histones. By using specific small interference RNAs (siRNAs), we demonstrate that HDAC3 is essential, whereas TBL1 and TBLR1 are functionally redundant but essential for repression by unliganded thyroid hormone receptor. Together, our data reveal the roles of HDAC3 and TBL/TBLR1 and provide evidence for the functional importance of histone interaction in repression mediated by SMRT–N-CoR complexes.
Effect of isolation and conspecific presence in a novel environment on corticosterone concentrations in a social avian species, the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata)

Zebra finches are a highly social and monogamous avian species. In the present study, we sought to determine the effect of social isolation (separation from the flock) in a novel environment with and without a conspecific present on the adrenocortical activity of paired and unpaired individuals of this species. With regard to paired birds, we hypothesized that the presence of the mate during isolation from the group would act as a social buffer against the stressful effects of isolation. We observed that 10 but not 30 minutes of social isolation resulted in elevated concentrations of corticosterone in unpaired and paired male zebra finches in comparison to baseline concentrations of corticosterone. Furthermore, the presence of a mate during isolation in a novel environment did not have a buffering effect against increases in corticosterone concentrations. Additionally, to compare concentrations of corticosterone in response to isolation (in a novel environment) to a previously well-established stressor, we subjected groups of birds to restraint. We observed that 10 or 30 minutes of restraint led to significantly higher concentrations of corticosterone as compared to baseline. Finally, to rule out the possibility that merely handling a bird would result in significantly elevated concentrations of corticosterone as compared to baseline samples, we measured corticosterone concentrations 10 or 30 minutes after handling involving capture and release only. Our results suggest that handling alone might have contributed to the elevation of corticosterone in birds exposed to 10 minutes but not 30 minutes of restraint. Handling by itself did not account, however, for the elevated corticosterone in birds socially isolated for 10 minutes.
CHEMISTRY OF BAKED POTATO FLOUR: FURTHER IDENTIFICATION OF HETEROCYCLIC COMPOUNDS IN THE VOLATILE FLAVOR OF BAKED POTATO

The gas chromatographic fractions of a baked potato flavor which was isolated from 540 lb of Idaho Russet Burbank potatoes were analyzed by infrared and mass spectrometry. A large number of heterocyclic compounds were identified. This paper reports the identification of 9 furans, 2 oxazoles, 3 thiophenes, 2 pyrroles, 2 pyridines, 1 dioxolane, and 1 trioxane. It was noted that heterocyclic compounds with formyl or acetyl substituents had aromas with nutty characteristics.
Acoustic Backscatter System (ABSS): The instrument and some preliminary results

Abstract A self-contained, self-recording system for measuring acoustic backscatter from suspended particulates is described. Designed to utilize particulate backscatter, both as a means for estimating burden and for mapping hydrodynamic processes, the ABSS has been deployed at 5 km depths at the HEBBLE site. Two systems, operating at different frequencies, encompass the range of spatial scales encountered in the Benthic Boundary Layer (BBL). A typical set of recorded profiles is presented and explained. The Autonomous Tripod Vehicle (ATV) on which the ABSS is deployed is also described.
Using Vehicles to Challenge Antisleeping Ordinances

Homeless people who sleep on city streets are subject to regulation practices that target their appearance, status, and behavior. Vehicle living affords a private sleeping area, yet occupants are still frequently cited for sleeping in public. The right to sleep has recently become controversial, as cities that do not provide adequate shelter cannot legally outlaw public sleeping. This article uses interviews, surveys, and municipal court trial data to present an ethnographic case study of the vehicle community in Santa Barbara, CA. Like many California coastal cities, the visible presence of homeless people is troubling to citizens, city officials, and tourists who seek unfettered access to beaches and shopping areas. Homeless people who sleep in these areas see their vehicles as essential for personal survival, as a way of escaping negative public attention, and as a way of arguing for social legitimacy.
Issues in Integration of Design and Manufacturing for Mechatronics

Design for manufacture (DfM) has made significant strides by recommending incremental changes to design details. As DfM is pushed further upstream in the design process, it becomes an integral part of design. In the earliest stages of design, designers must consider the manufacturing implications of all of their decisions and trade them against other aspects of design performance. We present a decision-based framework for system-level DfM that focuses on the entire design process. To examine this methodology, we present issues arising from the development of an integrated design process for mechatronic products that includes both DfM evaluations and heuristic DfM design practices as ways to shape the early design process. Integrating DfM into design search must happen at the system level, doing so requires improving the overall design synthesis process.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Functional forms for the negative binomial model for count data

Abstract This note develops an encompassing model for two well known variants of the negative binomial model (the NB1 and NB2 forms). We conclude with an application of the proposed model using the data employed in a recent health care study.
A new Dual-hemostat technique to facilitate the closure of small laparoscopic trocar incisions.

Background: The introduction of any surgical procedure brings with it new technical challenges. The use of laparoscopy offers patients a reduction in pain and better cosmesis. However, over time, new technical challenges associated with laparoscopic surgery are becoming more evident. In particular, the closure of the small trocar site fascial incisions is often awkward and time consuming. The aim of this article is to introduce a closing procedure that facilitates the safe approximation of the abdominal fascia in these wounds. Method: One hemostat is used to visualize the fascia of one side of the wound and separate the fascia from the underlying abdominal viscera. Another hemostat retracts the opposite side of the wound. The suture needle is passed through the fascia and between the open tips of the hemostat. The tips of the second hemostat grasp the driven needle and carry it out of the wound. Conclusion: The use of two hemostats to close these wounds not only facilitates the closure but is also probably safer than the standard technique.
Valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide: pharmacology and clinical efficacy

Background: Valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide is a combination of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist and diuretic indicated for hypertensive patients as initial therapy and those not controlled on monotherapy. Objective: To evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and clinical efficacy of valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide in hypertension therapy and other cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: Review of current literature. Results: Valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide has been shown to be superior to its individual components in randomized controlled studies of patients with moderate-to-severe hypertension and in patients who did not respond to monotherapy. When compared to amlodipine, valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide was shown to have a similar rate of the combined outcome of morbidity and mortality. Valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide has also been studied in specific patient populations, such as diabetics, obese, elderly, black hypertensives and hypertensives with further cardiovascular risk factors, and has been shown to ...
MO‐D‐108‐09: Perturbation of Tissue Density Is An Important Metric to Be Considered When Planning for Respiratory Motion Management for Lung Proton Therapy

Purpose: AAPM TG 76 report suggests 5mm tumor motion as the threshold of motion mitigating techniques such as gating or breath‐holding. However, for proton therapy, plan quality can change significantly due to change in tissue density along the beam path independent of tumor motion. In this work, we introduce our in‐house software used for respiratory motion assessment and demonstrate its application for selected patients. Methods: During the 4DCT simulation, an observer estimated the magnitude of tumor motion. Later, the max‐inhale (T0) and max‐exhale (T50) phases were registered using in‐house deformable image registration (DIR) software. The deformation vectors of voxels contained in the internal target volume (ITV) plus 5mm space were used to calculate the mean distance traveled by the tissue in direction that is both perpendicular and parallel to the beam axis. Furthermore, tissue density perturbation was measured as follow: the difference in water‐equivalent thickness (WET) between T0 and T50 were calculated by ray‐tracing along the beam path from the patent skin to the distal surface of the ITV. The observer and DIR measured tumor motion, and the absolute mean differences of WET were compared using Spearman rank correlation. Results: A total of 15 lung cases were studied. The observer measured motion was ranged from 6‐13mm while DIR measurement showed 4‐17mm. The average WET difference was range from 3–9mm. No correlation was observed between observer measured and WET change (rho = 0.16). A positive correlation was observed between DIR and the WET change (rho = 0.7). Conclusion: Our Result: indicates that the change in tissue density due to the breathing motion is as important as tumor motion itself when considering treatment planning strategy for lung proton therapy. Therefore, tissue perturbation due to breathing motion should be measured along with tumor motion when planning for respiratory management. This project is supported by grant P01CA021239 from the National Cancer Institute.
Surgery for Esophageal Cancer: Quality of Life Matters

Esophageal cancer and its treatment have a profound impact not only on a patient’s length of life, but quality of life as well. Dysphagia, weight loss, and eating restrictions are frequent sequelae of both the disease and its treatment. In this issue, investigators from the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam examined quality of life before and after resection for distal esophageal cancers. 1 They found that among preoperative patients, the quality-of-life physical symptom scale predicted postoperative overall survival independent of the tumor length and endoscopic ultrasound T-stage. After surgical resection, the quality-of-life pain scale, social function, and activity level predicted overall survival independent of pathological T-stage and N-stage. Clearly, self-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) adds predictive value to our best available preoperative and postoperative prognosticators. The challenge is how to use this information. One important benefit of quality-of-life research is to help evaluate the outcomes of different therapies, such as the analysis by the same investigators who examined quality of life after transhiatal compared with transthoracic esophagectomy. 2 It is intriguing to speculate about what mechanisms may underlie the effects of HRQoL on overall and diseasespecific survival. These speculations may help to generate hypotheses for further investigation that may help further understand tumor biology. One mechanism of these interactions may be that quality of life is a marker for occult metastatic disease. Recent advances in serum proteonomics in gastrointestinal cancer patients suggest that even among patients thought to have localized disease, cancer-associated proteins can be detected within the serum. 3 It would be reasonable to assume that even localized tumors, in patients with imaging negative for distant disease, might elaborate serum factors that would adversely affect quality of life. As this field grows and specific proteins are identified, it will be interesting to see whether the age-old problem of cancerassociated cachexia can be more fully understood. Health-related quality of life may also be a window into the patient’s host response to their neoplasm. Social function, activity level, and pain may be surrogates for their ability to recover from surgery and the presence of major or subclinical surgical complications. Postoperative decrements in quality of life may also be a marker for postoperative complications, which are known to affect quality of life and alter prognosis, even subsequent to the perioperative period. 4,5 On the other hand, social function and activity level may be related to cancer-related alterations in circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythm alterations and social function are related in complex ways: social cues help to reset the biological clock, while disruptions in circadian and sleep cycle patterns tend to affect social interactions. It been shown, for instance, that cancer patients exhibit abnor
Exploiting sensitive laser-induced fluorescence detection on electrophoretic microchips for executing rapid clinical diagnostics.

Fluorescence is used as a sensitive detection technique for current clinical diagnostics procedures involving slab gel separations of DNA. In transferring electrophoretic separations to smaller formats, first capillaries and then microchips, the size of the sample being separated has decreased considerably, making it necessary to routinely detect a few hundred molecules of each component in the sample. Laser-induced fluorescence detectors provide high sensitivity and can be employed in both direct and indirect modes to detect clinically relevant compounds. A number of examples show that there is no loss of clinical diagnostic capability in moving these analyses to microchip devices. Microchips also allow for parallel processing of samples by incorporating multiple channels in a single device, with a number of strategies possible for using LIF detection in these multiplex systems. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new automated urine fentanyl immunoassay: technical performance and clinical utility for monitoring fentanyl compliance.

Abstract Background Opiate and other drugs of abuse screening assays have been available for many years, and successfully utilized for monitoring patient medication compliance and for detecting misuse. However, immunoassays designed to rapidly detect the highly potent synthetic opioid, fentanyl, have not been available. Methods We evaluated a new fentanyl homogeneous enzyme immunoassay (HEIA) (Immunalysis Corporation) for its ability to accurately detect fentanyl in 307 urine samples from patients prescribed chronic opioid therapy. Samples were screened by HEIA and confirmed by LC–MS/MS and ELISA for diagnostic comparison. HEIA precision and interference studies were performed. Results HEIA diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 97%, 99%, and 99%, respectively, in comparison with LC–MS/MS and ELISA. HEIA detected 37 of the 38 LC–MS/MS positive samples identified in our initial evaluation, including some that contained very low levels of fentanyl, Conclusions The HEIA urine fentanyl assay allows for rapid and accurate fentanyl detection, illustrating its utility in monitoring fentanyl compliance and abuse.
Transition from spin-glass to single impurity behavior in CdMnTe.

Abstract The magnetization of polycrystal Cd1−x Mnx Te has been measured from 2K down to 10 mK in a field of 10 0e for samples with Mn concentrations x of 5%, 1% and 0.05%. The two most concentrated samples show a broad transition from a paramagnetic to a spin glass phase. The most dilute sample does not show such transition but it shows hyperfine interaction effects characteristic of single impurities.
Photoelectron imaging of small silicon cluster anions, Sin- (n=2―7)

Photoelectron imaging experiments were conducted on small silicon cluster anions, Sin− (n=2–7), acquired at a photon energy of 3.49 eV (355 nm). Electronic transitions arising from the anion ground states are observed, and the evaluated vertical detachment energies agree well with previous measurements and theoretical calculations. The anisotropy β parameters have also been determined for each unique feature appearing in the photoelectron angular distributions at the employed photon energy. Separate calculations using density functional theory are also undertaken to determine the relative atomic orbital contributions constructing the interrogated highest occupied and low-lying molecular orbitals of a specific cluster. A method to interpret the observed cluster angular distributions, term the β-wave approach, is then implemented which provides quantitative predictions of the anisotropy β parameter for partial wave emission from molecular orbitals partitioned by varying contributions of atomic orbital angular momenta. Highlighted in the β-wave analysis is the ability of discriminating between disparate molecular orbitals from two nearly isoenergetic structural isomers of opposing point group symmetry for the Si4− and Si6− cluster ions, respectively.
Control of ion distortion in field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry via variation of dispersion field and gas temperature.

Field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) has emerged as an analytical tool of broad utility, especially in conjunction with mass spectrometry. Of particular promise is the use of FAIMS and 2-D ion mobility methods that combine FAIMS with conventional IMS to resolve and characterize protein and other macromolecular conformers. However, FAIMS operation requires a strong electric field, and ions are inevitably heated by energetic collisions with buffer gas molecules. This may induce ion isomerization or dissociation, which distort the separation properties of FAIMS (and subsequent stages) or reduce instrumental sensitivity. As FAIMS employs a periodic waveform, whether those processes are controlled by ion temperature at maximum or average field intensity has been debated. Here we address this issue by measuring the unfolding of compact ubiquitin ion geometries as a function of waveform amplitude (dispersion field, ED) and gas temperature, T. The field heating is quantified by matching the...
Effects of Florida's Personal Fitness Course on cognitive, attitudinal and physical fitness measures of secondary students: a pilot study.

Sammary.-The effects of Florida's Personal Fitness Course were studied on 60 secondary students' cognitive achievement, physical fitness, and attitude toward physical activity. Significant improvement in knowledge of fitness concepts, selected physical fitness parameters, and over-all attitude toward participation in physical activity suggests the course was effective. Recent legislation within the state of Florida has mandated extensive educational reform which cuts across the various curricula offered to secondary students. One area affected by this legislation is physical education. The RAISE Bill (Raising Achievement in Secondary Education) requires one-half credit in physical education to include the attainment, maintenance, and assessment of personal physical fitness (3). As of the 1985-86 school year, students must successfully complete this course to qualify for graduation. The main attitude toward this course from legislative education committees was one of cautious optimism. The general feeling was that a personal fitness course was warranted and would play an essential role in the total education of Florida's secondary students. However, many of the legislators expressed concern over the quality of instruction physical educators would provide and to what extent the students would benefit. The charge before the physical education profession in the state of Florida was to demonstrate that the Personal Fitness Course2 would benefit secondary students. Since the course includes cognitive, attitudinal, and physical fitness components, these areas would be subject to accountability. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to determine what effects Florida's Personal Fitness Course would have on these students with regard to these areas through their participation in the course during its pilot year. Three school systems, who had opted to initiate the Personal Fitness Course one year before the state mandated implementation date, participated in the study. From the total number of students enrolled in the course in each school, 60 students were randomly selected for inclusion. The teachers assigned
The 63Cu(p, p′γ)63Cu and 65Cu(p, p′γ)65Cu reactions at 6.5 MeV

Abstract The gamma-ray de-excitation of the first five excited states of 63 Cu and 65 Cu was studied by means of the 63, 65 Cu(p, p′γ) 63, 65 Cu reactions. Thin-film targets of copper enriched in 63 Cu and 65 Cu, respectively, were bombarded with a 6.5 MeV proton beam from the MIT-ONR Van de Graaff generator. A gamma spectrum for each level was obtained in coincidence with protons of the right energy, as determined by a high-intensity magnetic spectrometer designed in this laboratory. Measured relative intensities of the de-excitation gamma rays were not corrected for angular correlation effects. The experimental results provide evidence for spin and parity assignments of 5 2 − to the 1412 keV fourth excited level of 63 Cu and to the 1623 keV fourth excited level of 65 Cu. A striking over-all similarity in the decay schemesof the two nuclei is observed.
Synthetic molecules that fold into a pleated secondary structure in solution

THE construction of synthetic molecules that fold or assemble predictably into large, well defined structures represents a fertile area of chemistry. Many supramolecular systems have been reported that self-assemble as a result of non-covalent interactions1-7; and the control of higher-order protein structure by de novo design has also been demonstrated8,9. Protein secondary structural motifs have also been stabilized by incorporating artificial groups that impose constraints on the folded architecture10-12. Here we describe the synthesis of molecules that will fold in water into a pleated structure, as a result of interactions between alternating electron-rich donor groups and electron-deficient acceptor groups. We verify the pleated structure using absorption and NMR spec-troscopy. Donor-acceptor interactions have been used previously to engineer specific supramolecular geometries2,13, and are energetically favourable in organic as well as in aqueous solutions. But whereas previously such interactions have been used to effect self-assembly of distinct molecules, our results show that they can also determine the secondary structure of complex synthetic molecules in solution.
Technical Change and the Equilibrium Profit Rate in a Market with Sequential Bargaining

The Marxian theory of the tendentially falling rate of profit is shown to be consistent with a competitive equilibrium scenario for labor markets in which wages are determined by sequential bargaining within a stationary matching process. The central result establishes that if trade is possible, there exists a set of individually rational capital-using, labor-saving technical innovations which lower the equilibrium rate of profit if adopted universally. The model yields as an important special case wage conditions under which the universal adoption of any such innovation reduces the equilibrium rate of profit.
Educated by Initiative: The Effects of Direct Democracy on Citizens and Political Organizations in the American States

Educated by Initiative: The Effects of Direct Democracy on Citizens and Political Organizations in the American States. By Daniel A. Smith and Caroline J. Tolbert. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press, 2004. 252p. 22.95 paper.Throughout the mid-1980s, empirical state-level initiative studies were sufficiently rare that David Magleby's now classic book (Direct Legislation: Voting on Ballot Propositions in the United States, 1984) addressed topics as varied as the status of direct democracy laws, the impact of various cues on voting choices, and the readability of ballot pamphlets. Research on the initiative process subsequently burgeoned, and direct democracy has become one of the most widely considered aspects of state politics. Quantitative studies have focused especially on the substantive impact of the initiative process on public policy, as well as on the extent to which campaign contributions influence electoral outcomes.
Chemical Composition of Fog Water and Interstitial Aerosol in Berkeley, California

Abstract Fog water and interstitial particles were sampled at Berkeley, California, during foggy periods in the summer of 1986. The sampling site received marine fog advected from the San Francisco Bay. Samples of ambient particulate material (total aerosol) were collected using a filter sampler with a heated inlet. Concentrations of Na + , K + , NH 4 , Cl, NO 3 and SO 4 2 were measured in the particles and fog water, for which pH was also measured. Black carbon aerosol was determined on the filter samples using optical attenuation. The marine fog showed the influence of mixing and chemical reaction with anthropogenic pollutants Twenty-six percent of the black carbon was present in fog droplets, indicating that incorporation of combustion particles into fog droplets had occurred. Anthropogenic particulate species were not scavenged by fog water as efficiently as sea-salt components. Non-sea-salt SO 4 2 was enhanced in the total aerosol during fog compared to dry conditions, and this observation has been interpreted as evidence for heterogeneous production of SO 4 2 in fog. The fog had elevated SO 4 2 and NO 4 levels compared to sites closer to the ocean. Sufficient NH 3 (g) was available to neutralize the increased acidity from anthropogenic H 2 SO 4 and HNO 3 so that the median pH was 4, as compared to pH 2.2 observed in Los Angeles fog water under more polluted conditions. Loss of Cl from the fog or its precursor aerosol was enhanced compared to other measurements of San Francisco Bay Area fog at more remote locations.
What's in a Name? Interior Design and/or Interior Architecture: The Discussion Continues

Allison Carll White, Ph.D., is a Professor in the School of Interior Design in the College of Design at the University of Kentucky. She also holds a joint appointment in the graduate program in the Department of Historic Preservation. Allison has published extensively on various aspects of the design profession, with a special focus on the need to promote the value of interior design. She became an IDEC Fellow in 1999 and currently serves as the chair of IDEC's College of Fellows. Allison also has served as a reviewer and a Publication Board member for the Journal of Interior Design. In 2000, Allison was made a Fellow of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) after serving as the director of the Education and Research Forum and president of the IIDA Foundation.
Microdetermination of gasoline in potable waters by gas chromatography.

Abstract Gasoline is extracted with 10 ml of hexane from 21 of potable water. The hexane solution is analyzed on an SE30 column with flame ionization detection. Gasoline can be differentiated from other petroleum cuts and quantitated to a level of 0.25 d/l with a relative standard deviation of ± 10%.
Gibbsian segregating alloys: a potential solution to minimize collector degradation

A critical issue for EUV lithography is the minimization of collector degradation from intense plasma erosion and debris deposition. Reflectivity and lifetime of the collector optics will be dependent on surface chemistry interactions between fuels and various mirror materials, in addition to high-energy ion and neutral particle erosion effects. An innovative Gibbsian segregation (GS) concept has been proposed to create self-healing, erosion-resistant collector optics. A Mo-Au GS alloy was developed on silicon using a DC dual-magnetron co-sputtering system. A thin Au segregating layer was maintained through segregation during exposure, even though overall erosion was taking place. The reflective material, Mo, underneath the segregating layer remains protected by the sacrificial layer, which is lost due to preferential sputtering. The two dominant driving gradients are temperature and surface concentration (surface removal flux). Both theoretical and experimental efforts were performed to test the suitability of the GS alloy as EUV collection optics, and to elucidate the underlying physics behind it. Results show a strong enhancement effect of temperature, while only a weak effect of surface removal rate on GS performance. When segregation-erosion equilibrium is reached, the surface remains smooth while showing good erosion resistance and maintaining a substantially better reflectivity as compared to the continuous degradation observed in a pure Mo mirror. Further research is recommended.