cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A nonlocal fracture criterion and its effect on the mesh dependency of GraFEA

Recently, Khodabakhshi et al. (Meccanica 51(12):3129–3147, 2016. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11012-016-0560-6 ) presented a new method (by the name GraFEA) capable of studying fracture based on edge breakage within a classical FEA scheme which combines the best features of FEA and bond-breakage methods in a single framework. In this study, an attempt is made to investigate the mesh dependency of GraFEA by a set of numerical examples, and it is shown that using a local fracture criterion for edge failure will yield mesh-dependent results, as is already well known. A physically motivated nonlocal fracture criterion is implemented along with the edge breakage model, and its efficacy in eliminating the mesh sensitivity is investigated. The nonlocal criterion introduces a length scale into the problem. It is shown that by increasing the magnitude of the length scale parameter from zero, the damage pattern moves from localized fracture to diffuse damage pattern, yet with complete material separation (fracture) across a certain plane. It is shown by numerical results that, as expected, the introduction of the nonlocal fracture criterion eliminates the issue of mesh sensitivity, and thus predictions of the approximate crack paths and damage zone can be done within the classical FEA framework without the need for special formulations.
The Spectrum of Drug-Induced Interstitial Lung Disease

Drug-induced interstitial lung disease (DI-ILD) is a very challenging topic both clinically and academically. With the advent of new immunotherapy and ever-growing arsenal of chemotherapeutic and biologic agents for a variety of conditions, it is paramount for the clinician to assess for the development of pulmonary toxicity before irreversible lung damage occurs. In this review, we have summarized the literature and describe the most commonly implicated agents and also describe new and rare causes of DI-ILD. Bleomycin and amiodarone remain the most frequent culprits of DI-ILD. Proteasome inhibitors have been observed to cause pulmonary toxicity in some patients. GM-CSF has also emerged as a cause of DI-ILD in recent years. Nitrofurantoin is commonly associated with DI-ILD in the class of antimicrobial agents, with both acute and chronic toxicity described. Anti-TNF drugs, in particular, etanercept and infliximab, are the overwhelming offenders among the biologic agents. In addition, methotrexate has been widely associated with lung injury, especially in those with underlying rheumatoid arthritis. Over 300 drugs are known to be associated with DI-ILD, and risk factors for the development of DI-ILD are not well understood. Radiographic patterns and histological patterns do not correlate well, and the data on treatment response to glucocorticoid therapy remains variable. Early identification, removal of the offending agent, and elimination of other causes of lung injury remain paramount in the approach to DI-ILD.
The Effectiveness of a Distance Peer Mentor Training Program with Military Spouses with Children with Autism

Several researchers have described a training for mentorship programs; however, few studies have examined the effects of mentor training on mentor knowledge of communication strategies taught in the training. This investigation developed and tested a distance peer mentor training for military spouses with children with autism. Results indicated prospective military spouse mentors scored significantly higher on training assessments than those in the comparison group, demonstrating they acquired knowledge and skills from the online training. Further, military spouse mentors in the training group felt the training was useful and helped prepare them to mentor other military spouses. This pilot investigation demonstrated a brief, online peer mentor training may be used to train peer mentors.
Use of Maple and Möbius in an Undergraduate Course on Cryptography

A senior undergraduate course on cryptography for computer science majors that combines the use of conventional materials with Maple worksheets and Mobius modules is in development. The design intent and impact of the Maple-based materials on course conduct is discussed. Pedagogical and practical considerations are discussed along and initial impressions given regarding benefits and difficulties in using the tools.
A risk-based model to assess environmental justice and coronary heart disease burden from traffic-related air pollutants

Communities need to efficiently estimate the burden from specific pollutants and identify those most at risk to make timely informed policy decisions. We developed a risk-based model to estimate the burden of black carbon (BC) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) on coronary heart disease (CHD) across environmental justice (EJ) and non-EJ populations in Allegheny County, PA. Exposure estimates in census tracts were modeled via land use regression and analyzed in relation to US Census data. Tracts were ranked into quartiles of exposure (Q1-Q4). A risk-based model for estimating the CHD burden attributed to BC and NO2 was developed using county health statistics, census tract level exposure estimates, and quantitative effect estimates available in the literature. For both pollutants, the relative occurrence of EJ tracts (> 20% poverty and/or > 30% non-white minority) in Q2 – Q4 compared to Q1 progressively increased and reached a maximum in Q4. EJ tracts were 4 to 25 times more likely to be in the highest quartile of exposure compared to the lowest quartile for BC and NO2, respectively. Pollutant-specific risk values (mean [95% CI]) for CHD mortality were higher in EJ tracts (5.49 × 10− 5 [5.05 × 10− 5 – 5.92 × 10− 5]; 5.72 × 10− 5 [5.44 × 10− 5 – 6.01 × 10− 5] for BC and NO2, respectively) compared to non-EJ tracts (3.94 × 10− 5 [3.66 × 10− 5 – 4.23 × 10− 5]; 3.49 × 10− 5 [3.27 × 10− 5 – 3.70 × 10− 5] for BC and NO2, respectively). While EJ tracts represented 28% of the county population, they accounted for about 40% of the CHD mortality attributed to each pollutant. EJ tracts are disproportionately skewed toward areas of high exposure and EJ residents bear a greater risk for air pollution-related disease compared to other county residents. We have combined a risk-based model with spatially resolved long-term exposure estimates to predict CHD burden from air pollution at the census tract level. It provides quantitative estimates of effects that can be used to assess possible health disparities, track temporal changes, and inform timely local community policy decisions. Such an approach can be further expanded to include other pollutants and adverse health endpoints.
Relationship between distension-contraction waveforms during esophageal peristalsis: effect of bolus volume, viscosity, and posture

High-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) in its current form assesses only the contraction phase of peristalsis. Degree of esophageal distension ahead of contraction is a surrogate of relaxation and can be measured from intraluminal esophageal impedance measurements. The characteristics of esophageal contractions, i.e., their amplitude, duration, velocity, and modulating factors, have been well studied. We studied the effect of bolus volume and viscosity and posture on swallow-induced distension and contraction and the temporal relationship between the two. HRM impedance recordings of 50 healthy subjects with no esophageal symptoms were analyzed. Eight to ten swallows of 5 and 10 mL of 0.5 N saline and a viscous bolus were recorded in the supine and Trendelenburg positions. Custom-built computer software generated the distension-contraction plots and numerical data of the amplitudes of distension (cross-sectional area) and contraction, and the temporal relationship between distension and peak contraction. The hallmarks of distension waveforms are that 1) distension peak, similarly to contraction, travels the esophagus in a peristaltic fashion, and the amplitude of distension increases from the proximal-to-distal direction; 2) the amplitude of distension is greater with 10 mL than with 5 mL and greater in Trendelenburg than in supine posture; and 3) bolus viscosity increases the amplitude of distension and alters the temporal relationship between distension and contraction waveforms. We describe the characteristics of esophageal distension during peristalsis and the relationship between distension and contraction in a relatively large cohort of normal subjects. These data can be used to compare differences between normal subjects and patients with various esophageal motility disorders in future studies.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We studied esophageal distension (surrogate of inhibition) ahead of contraction during peristalsis from intraluminal esophageal impedance measurements. Esophageal distension, similarly to contraction, travels the esophagus in a sequential manner, and the amplitude of esophageal distension increases from proximal to distal direction in the esophagus. Bolus volume, viscosity and posture have significant effects on the amplitude of distension and its temporal relationship with contraction.
Bronchus compression relieved by patent ductus arteriosus stenting.

Background Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stenting is evolving as an alternative to surgical aorto-pulmonary shunts for infants with ductal-dependent pulmonary blood flow. Given anatomical proximity, the PDA can compress the ipsilateral bronchus. We report a case series of four patients with bronchial compression by a tortuous PDA who underwent PDA stenting. Methods Our four patients received PDA stents for ductal-dependent pulmonary blood flow despite preprocedure imaging evidence of bronchial compression. We reviewed the cross-sectional chest imaging to assess the degree of bronchial compression and the variables that affect it, namely PDA size, PDA tortuosity, and the anatomical relationship between the compressed bronchus and the PDA. Results Three out of the four patients had postprocedure imaging, and all showed relief of the previously seen bronchial compression. Post-PDA stenting patients had a smaller and straight PDA with significant lateralization away from the compressed bronchus. None of the four patients developed symptoms of bronchial compression poststenting. Conclusions Our study suggests that pre-existing bronchial compression does not preclude PDA stenting. Stent placement in an engorged and tortuous PDA led to significant improvement in pre-existing bronchial compression. Improvement may be attributed to PDA shrinkage, straightening, and lateralization. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Clinical Trial Visits in the Age of COVID-19: Implementation of Research Participant Safety Measures

The COVID-19 pandemic is having a major impact on how current clinical trials are being conducted in the U.S. Researchers have experienced the effects of COVID-19 through the halting and delaying of clinical trials, the lack of personal protection equipment (PPE), the closing of clinical sites, and a decrease in participant recruitment. Many clinical trials will have more missing data because of a participant's inability to attend in-person visits, discontinuation of trial activities, or interruption of time-sensitive study collection data due to COVID-19. All of these events affect the data quality of trials. Government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and National Institutes of Health (NIH) have issued recommendations for investigators conducting clinical trials to combat the spread of COVID-19 and to maintain data integrity. Institutions sponsoring clinical trials have also provided guidelines to continue, modify, or pause research studies that are essential to ensure participant and research team safety. Key recommendations include implementing telehealth appointments, wearing a protective mask and face shield, quarantining for 14 days if exposed to COVID-19 or having traveled, and, if possible, maintaining a 6-foot distance. It is also recommended that investigators implement COVID-19 screening questionnaires prior to and during on-site visits. This includes participants and research personnel completing a temperature check and questionnaire screen before in-person data collection. This article will discuss the challenges encountered by researchers conducting clinical trials and provide resources and examples to assist investigators during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A multi-level weighted alarm security system for passenger and checked-baggage screening

Persistent and ever-changing threat of terrorism has led to the evolution of security systems in the air transportation industry. Passenger and checked-baggage screening prior to boarding an aircra...
A low-dispersion Fabry-Perot cavity for generation of a 30 GHz astrocomb spanning 140 nm

For broadband filtering of a frequency comb, ultra-low dispersion mirrors with reflectivity 99.2–99.6% are fabricated and characterized. A Fabry-Perot cavity is constructed, and used to filter 140 nm of optical bandwidth to 30 GHz.
Antitrust Analysis of Bundled Discounts

The Third Circuit's decision in Lepage's v. 3M created a great deal of uncertainty about the legality of so-called bundled discounts - i.e., discounts (or rebates) conditioned upon purchasing multiple products from disparate product markets. This paper, prepared for a joint Department of Justice/Federal Trade Commission hearing on single-firm exclusionary conduct, describes the competitive risk bundled discounts present, summarizes and critiques the six leading approaches courts and commentators have proposed for evaluating the legality of such discounts, and proposes an alternative evaluative approach.
Off-Pump Versus On-Pump Coronary Bypass Surgery

To the Editor: A careful, randomized study of coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) concluded that, “in selected patients, off-pump CABG [OFFCABG] is safe and yields short-term cardiac outcomes comparable to that of on-pump CABG [ONCABG].”1 Despite this positive interpretation, OFFCABG had no benefit in these highly selected patients in the ways in which it was most expected: intensive care unit stay, stroke, atrial fibrillation, quality of life, and hospital cost. The authors attribute lower creatine kinase muscle-brain isoenzyme release in OFFCABG patients to less ischemia from individual coronary artery clamping, compared with the global ischemia often used during ONCABG. Actually, local vessel clamping is also appropriate (and is even more convenient) during ONCABG.2 Alternatively, ONCABG can be done with brief periods of intermittent global ischemia,3 thus gaining the benefits of ischemic preconditioning. It is also disappointing that the patients and their …
Paleotemperatures and ice volume of the past 27 Myr revisited with paired Mg/Ca and 18O/16O measurements on benthic foraminifera

[1] We explore the applicability of paired Mg/Ca and 18O/16O measurements on benthic foraminifera from Southern Ocean site 747 to paleoceanographic reconstructions on pre-Pleistocene timescales. We focus on the late Oligocene through Pleistocene (27–0 Ma) history of paleotemperatures and the evolution of the δ18O values of seawater (δ18Osw) at a temporal resolution of ∼100–200 kyr. Absolute paleotemperature estimates depend on assumptions of how Mg/Ca ratios of seawater have changed over the past 27 Myr, but relative changes that occur on geologically brief timescales are robust. Results indicate that at the Oligocene to Miocene boundary (23.8 Ma), temperatures lag the increase in global ice-volume deduced from benthic foraminiferal δ18O values, but the smaller-scale Miocene glaciations are accompanied by ocean cooling of ∼1°C. During the mid-Miocene phase of Antarctic ice sheet growth (∼15–13 Ma), water temperatures cool by ∼3°C. Unlike the benthic foraminiferal δ18O values, which remain relatively constant thereafter, temperatures vary (by 3°C) and reach maxima at ∼12 and ∼8.5 Ma. The onset of significant Northern Hemisphere glaciation during the late Pliocene is synchronous with an ∼4°C cooling at site 747. A comparison of our δ18Osw curve to the Haq et al. [1987] sea level curve yields excellent agreement between sequence boundaries and times of increasing seawater 18O/16O ratios. At ∼12–11 Ma in particular, when benthic foraminiferal δ18O values do not support a further increase in ice volume, the δ18Osw curve comes to a maximum that corresponds to a major mid-Miocene sea level regression. The agreement between the character of our Mg/Ca-based δ18Osw curve and sequence stratigraphy demonstrates that benthic foramaniferal Mg/Ca ratios can be used to trace the δ18Osw on pre-Pleistocene timescales despite a number of uncertainties related to poorly constrained temperature calibrations and paleoseawater Mg/Ca ratios. The Mg/Ca record also highlights that deep ocean temperatures can vary independently and unexpectedly from ice volume changes, which can lead to misinterpretations of the δ18O record.
Dismantling Large Bank Holding Companies for Their Own Good and for the Good of the Country

This paper suggests that bank holding com- panies are in fact "financial malls." I demonstrate the problems that they pose for the financial system, not only by size but by inefficient and inappropriate concentra- tion. The article suggests restructuring of bank holding companies by introducing more market discipline to the various "shops" in the mall as well as concentrating services for the purpose of efficiency. The article con- cludes with the suggestion that rather than imposing a restructure by law, it may perhaps be possible to entice managements that look to the long-term future to fol- low a restructure voluntarily.
Analysis of dietary data

A reliable dietary analysis system is a requirement for accurate nutritional analysis of dietary data. Information provided in this paper can be used to assist with the development of new systems or with evaluation of existing systems. Development of a dietary analysis system for research usually beings with a food composition data set from USDA. Major sources of data to insert for missing values include USDA (provisional data released from the USDA Nutrient Data Bank prior to final data processing), food companies, and the scientific literature. Calculations can be used for estimating nutrient content of some foods. Other components of a dietary analysis system include the method for computerizing the dietary data and the software for making conversions and producing reports. Several resources exist to help researchers develop reliable systems.
Examination of liner stability during magnetic implosion using experiments and simulations

Los Alamos has been conducting a number experiments to examine dynamic properties of materials using high-energy pulse power generator systems. These experiments are conducted in a Z-pinch configuration typically with an outer aluminum liner to carry the current, develop the acting force, and act as the driving element. The peak magnetic fields produced by these systems have ranged from 0.5 to 1.7 mega gauss. The onset of what has been called Magneto-Raleigh-Taylor (MRT) instabilities in the outer aluminum liner, when excessive current is applied, has been considered a limitation on the design of these liners. However, in several cases where the material of the liner was calculated to be completely melted the outside liner surface remained stable. Analysis of the data from this and several other experiments and comparison to 1D MHD simulations has already permitted us to examine how the drive conditions on this aluminum layer appear to effect the likelihood of onset of these instabilities. Additionally, careful variations of drive conditions, initial liner surface conditions, and EOS properties (including conductivity) suggest two phenomenons that appear to cause onset of instability. First, while the nature of the instability may still be fundamentally driven by the acceleration of a fluid interface, the effect may be drastically accentuated by the onset of liquid to vapor phase change if the material is allowed to approach too closely to the saturated liquid line. Furthermore, several observed cases which remained stable even after melting suggest that there may be drive conditions which maintain the aluminum at densities and temperatures above the saturated liquid line and significantly delay the onset of MRT instabilities. Second, the gradient of distribution of forces within the melted liner may also impact the growth of instabilities. We will also present the results of 2D simulations of these conditions and examine in greater detail the apparent mechanisms by which these instabilities grow.
Initial cost analysis of a desalination process utilizing hydrotalcite and permutite for ion sequestration.

An initial cost analysis of a proposed desalination process was performed. The proposed process utilizes tailored inorganic ion exchangers, hydrotalcite and permutite, to sequester anions and cations from a brackish water solution. Three different process scenarios were considered: (1) disposal of the spent exchangers as dry waste (2) conventional chemical regeneration, and (3) acid regeneration of permutite coupled with thermal (550 C) regeneration of hydrotalcite. Disposal of the resin and conventional regeneration are not viable options from an economic standpoint. Applying limited data and optimistic assumptions to the third scenario yielded an estimate of $2.34/kgal of product water. Published values for applying conventional reverse osmosis to similar water streams range from $0.70 to $2.65/kgal. Consistent with these baseline values, the Water Treatment Estimation Routine, WaTER, developed by the United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation produced a cost estimate of $1.16/kgal for brackish water reverse osmosis.
Specific pattern of gadolinium enhancement in spondylotic myelopathy

Objective To highlight a specific under-recognized radiological feature of spondylotic myelopathy often resulting in misdiagnosis. Methods Patients evaluated between January 1, 1996 and December 31, 2012 who met the following criteria were included: (1) spondylotic myelopathy was suspected, (2) gadolinium enhancement was detected, and (3) spinal surgery was performed. Results Fifty-six patients (70% men) whose median age was 53.5 years (range = 24–80) were included. Spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (cervical in 52; thoracic in 4) revealed longitudinal spindle-shaped T2-signal hyperintensity (100%) and cord enlargement (79%) accompanied by a characteristic pancakelike transverse band of gadolinium enhancement in 41 (73%), typically immediately caudal to the site of maximal spinal stenosis. Forty (71%) patients were initially diagnosed with neoplastic or inflammatory myelopathies, and decompressive surgery was delayed by a median of 11 months (range = 1–64). Spinal cord biopsy in 6 did not reveal any alternative diagnosis. Ninety-five percent were stable or improved. Gadolinium enhancement persisted in 75% at 12 months, raising concern about the accuracy of the initial diagnosis. Twenty patients required a gait aid (36%) at last follow-up (median = 60 months, range = 10–172). The need for a gait aid preoperatively (p = 0.005), but not delay of surgery, predicted the need for gait aid at final follow-up. Interpretation Transverse pancakelike gadolinium enhancement associated with and just caudal to the site of maximal stenosis and at the rostrocaudal midpoint of a spindle-shaped T2 hyperintensity suggests that spondylosis is the cause of the myelopathy. Persistent enhancement for months to years following decompressive surgery is common. Recognition is important to prevent inappropriate interventions or delay in consideration of a potentially beneficial decompressive surgery. Ann Neurol 2014;76:54–65
The combination of propranolol and magnesium does not prevent postoperative atrial fibrillation.

Abstract Background . Atrial fibrillation is a common complication of cardiovascular surgery. β-Blockers have been shown to decrease the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation. However, the use of magnesium is more controversial. It was our hypothesis that adjunctive magnesium sulfate would improve the efficacy of β-blockers alone in the prevention of postoperative atrial fibrillation. Methods . We prospectively randomized 167 coronary artery bypass patients (mean age 61 ± 10 years, 115 men) to receive propranolol alone (20 mg four times daily) or propranolol and magnesium (18 g over 24 hours). Magnesium was begun intraoperatively, and propranolol was started on admission to the intensive care unit. Results . Using an intention-to-treat analysis, the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation was 19.5% in the propranolol-treated patients and 22.4% in propranolol + magnesium-treated patients ( p = 0.65). Because combination therapy resulted in an excess of postoperative hypotension, which required withholding doses of propranolol, an on-treatment analysis was also performed. In this analysis, the incidence of atrial fibrillation was still not significantly different (18.5% in propranolol-treated patients and 10.0% in propranolol + magnesium-treated patients, p = 0.20). Conclusions . Adjunctive magnesium sulfate, in combination with propranolol, does not decrease the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation.
Histamine2 receptor blocker in the treatment of protamine related anaphylactoid reactions: two case reports

Two case reports are described of acute anaphylactoid reactions following the administration of protamine to reverse the anticoagulation effect of heparin in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The administration of cimetidine seemed to reverse the anaphylactoid reaction after conventional treatment with epinephrine, H1 receptor blocker, and steroids had failed. We recommend that H2 receptor blockade be included with other drugs in the treatment of anaphylactoid reactions following protamine, and possibly after anaphylactoid reactions associated with other substances.
Another BOLD role for astrocytes: coupling blood flow to neural activity

Increased local blood flow in response to neural activity is critical for brain function and the basis for functional imaging. Takano et al. now show that in vivo, astrocytes are central in translating neural activity into vasodilation via a mechanism involving COX1 metabolites.
SCHOOL COUNSELOR DOGMATISM AND VOCATIONAL IDENTITY

Summary.-23 school counselors were ranked according to scores on the Rokeach Dogmatism Scale. Rhos were computed between the Dogmatism Scale scores and the following scales: Opinionnaire on Attitudes Toward Education, Thurstone Interest Schedule's Executive and Humanitarian scale scores, and the Minnesota Teacher Attitude Inventory. No relationship between counselor rigidity and vocational identity (criteria1 measures) was observed. This study examines the relationship between counselor rigidity and vocational identity. Thus, will counselors who are flexible and open identify with those factors which are supposedly the attributes of an open-minded counselor? Will the rigid counselor possess traits other than those which are ascribed to the competent counselor? Current research is quite limited. Russo, Kelz, and Hudson (1964) reported a high positive relationship between measured "openmindedness" and ratings of counselors. However, Patterson (1967) has questioned some counselor-education programs, "Characteristics of students may be differentially susceptible to change by graduate education . . . this change, toward a less authoritarian and more accepting attitude appears to occur in noncounselor as well as counselor student~, however, and thus cannot be attributed specifically to the counselor education program." Rosen (1967) also questioned the outcomes of counselor training programs and indicated that such training might increase counselors' rigidity and conformity; thus, the counselor would encourage clients to conform to demands not consistent with their personal needs. McGreevy ( 1967) suggested that extensive experience in working with people in school senings leads to the development of a firm viewpoint that is detrimental to learning new and different approaches. A conclusion of the Buchheimer, Goodman, and Sirclls study of empathy (1965) was that schools did not seem to be an empathic milieu. They found counselors demanded that the student respond in terms of the need of the school or the situation rather than in terms of the need or interest of the counselee. Silper and Kaplan (1967) compared the work valoes of male school counselors, business school students, machinist students, and Peace Corps teacher trainees and found that among the four groups, school counselors scored lowest in intellectual stimulation, independence, achievement, and management. This led to the following questions upon which this research is based: (1) Will trainees who score low on the Rokeach Dogmatism Scale, score high on the Attintde Toward Education Scale? (2) Will trainees who score high on the Rokeach Dogmatism Scale also score high in Executive interests on the Thurstone Interest Schedule? (3) Will trainees who score high on the Rokeach
New Technologies and Concepts for Low Loss Radiation Hardened DC/DC Converters

Two new low loss radiation hardened technologies for DC power conversion are reported: a pulse width modulator and a digital isolator. Both are shown to be superior to currently available components used in radiation hardened DC/DC converters in terms of both power efficiency and radiation hardness. A method for combining the two technologies to maximize their benefit in DC/DC converter applications is described.
Outcomes of Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) Post Heart Transplant (HT)

Purpose ARVC outcomes post-HT pts have not been well studied. Criteria were established in 1994 & revised in 2010. We sought to better characterize ARVC pts in a national cohort. Methods and Materials 30605 HT-only pts were identified from UNOS (1994-2011). Exclusions (24%): Results There were 65 ARVC & 30540 non-ARVC pts (2% restrictive, 2% hypertrophic, 44% dilated, 47% ischemic, 7% other). ARVC pts were younger (p=0.0002) with less VAD use (p=0.001), decreased pulmonary artery pressures (p=0.0001), & associated with higher PRA (p Table ). Survival (1, 5 & 10y) was: ARVC (87, 80, 80%) & non-ARVC (87, 72, 53%) ( Figure ). Unadjusted HR for all-cause mortality was 0.57 (0.31-1.06). After adjustment: 0.77 (0.40-1.48, p=NS). ARVC survival was similar to hypertrophic, dilated & other while significantly better than restrictive & ischemic (1B). Conclusions This is the largest reported series of ARVC post-HT survival. Survival was similar to non-ARVC pts, with improved survival over ischemic & restrictives. ARVC was associated with less VAD use & lower filling pressures, suggestive of predominant right ventricular dysfunction.
Isospin dependence of pion absorption by nucleon pairs in the He isotopes

Abstract We calculate the relative absorption ratio of a pion by T = 0 and T = 1 nucleon pairs in the He isotopes measured recently by Ashery et al. Standard theory based on Δ-isobar intermediate excitations agrees with the experimental observation that for energies around the resonance, pion absorption by a T = 1 nucleon pair is strongly suppressed.
Metabolism of 1,2-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane and 1-Fluoro-1,2,2-trichloroethane: Electronic Factors Govern the Regioselectivity of Cytochrome P450-Dependent Oxidation

1,2-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane (HCFC-141) and 1,1,2-trichloro-2-fluoroethane (HCFC-131) were chosen as models to study the regioselectivity of halogenated alkane metabolism. Metabolites in the urine o...
Finite Element Modeling and Analysis of Large Pretensioned Space Structures

Pretensioned structures have great potential for providing the required size, stiffness, and packaging efficiency for large deployable space structures such as radio antenna, radar, and solar reflectors. These structures, however, are difficult tomodel correctly using standard numerical techniques, such as finite element analysis, and the current lack of literature on a robust modeling methodology can lead to analysis errors and wasted time. This paper details the static and dynamic behavior of pretensioned systems in their analytical forms and demonstrates how that behavior can be characterized using commercially available finite element software. This study was performed using ABAQUS Standard/CAE, but the methodology could be applied to any of the major finite element packages. A simple cable–beam system and a pretensioned truss structure are analyzed to verify the methodology and illustrate its suitability tomodeling the behavior of complex pretensioned structures. This paper provides an introduction and overview to modeling and analyzing pretensioned space structures for analysts and engineers familiar with modern finite element methods.
Validation of an improved abnormality insertion method for medical image perception investigations

ABSTRACT The ability to insert abnormalities in clinical tomographic images makes image perception studies with medical images practical. We describe a new insertion technique and its experimental validati on that uses complementary image masks to select an abnormality from a library and place it at a desired location. The me thod was validated using a 4-alternative forced-choice experiment. For each case, four quadrants were simultaneously displayed consisting of 5 consecutive frames of a chest CT with a pulmonary nodule. One quadrant was unaltered, while the other 3 had the nodule from the unaltered quadrant artificially inserted. 26 different sets were generated and repeated with order scrambling for a total of 52 cases. The cases were viewed by radiology staff and resi dents who ranked each quadrant by realistic appearance. On average, the observers were able to co rrectly identify the unaltered quadrant in 42% of cases, and identify the unaltered quadrant both times it appeared in 25% of cases. Consensus, defined by a majority of readers, correctly identified the unaltered quadrant in only 29% of 52 cases. For repeats, the consensus observer successfully identified the unaltered quadrant only once. We conclude that the insertion method can be used to reliably place abnormalities in perception experiments. Keywords: Abnormality insertion, medical image perception, tomographic studies 1. INTRODUCTION Perception studies with actual medical images are difficult becau se of the lack of control of the images and because of the lack of truth data. Clinically normal images may contain a number of benign entities that could act as distractors and otherwise desirable target abnormalities may not be located in suitable locations. As a result, the collection of usable clinical cases for perception research is time cons uming and often requires making compromises. To circumvent these problems, we have developed software that allows the manipulation of images to remove or introduce
Determination of peroxidative halogenation in mixtures of chloride and bromide

Abstract A method for the differentiation of chlorinated and brominated products from peroxidative oxidation of mixtures of the halides is presented. Chlorination or bromination of monochlorodimedone (MCD) by fungal chloroperoxidase (CPO) was measured by loss of MCD absorbance. Although the V max was similar for both halides [∼0.08 m m (2 min) −1 ], the apparent K m for chlorination was 10 times greater than that for bromination (5.88 vs 0.67 m m ). Chlorination was also quantitated as I 3 − produced from N -chlorotaurine and I − . The V max [0.076 m m (2 min) −1 ] and apparent K m (6.31 m m ) determined by this method agreed with those determined with MCD. Selective reduction by H 2 O 2 of the I − oxidizing potential of N -bromotaurine allowed determination of the brominated product from the difference between the amounts of halogenated MCD and N -chlorotaurine. The brominated product predominated at saturating and at physiologic halide levels. Hence, it is suggested that Br − plays a significant role in halogenation even though in vivo levels of Cl − are equal to or greater than 1000 times those of Br − .
Phagocytosis and nitroblue tetrazolium reduction in uremia.

Nachweis, dass neutrophile Leukozyten von Uramikern verglichen mit Gesunden eine unveranderte Fahigkeit zu Phagocytose und Reduktion von Nitroblau Tetrazolium besitzen.
Percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy in patients with severe kyphoscoliosis.

Because transseptal catheterization is felt to be contraindicated in patients with severe kyphoscoliosis, there have been no reports of percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy performed in such patients. This report describes percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy in three patients with severe thoracic kyphoscoliosis, with special emphasis on the transseptal puncture technique. Biplane right atrial angiography and the contrast septal flush method are very useful in landmark selection for a safe transseptal puncture. © 1993 Wiiey-Liss, Inc.
The influence of El Niño-Southern Oscillation events on the northern hemisphere 500 hPa circumpolar vortex

The relationship between El Nino, the Southern Oscillation, and their joint effect (ENSO), and Northern Hemisphere 500 hPa midlatitude circulation for the 1946–1994 observational record is determined. Seasonally standardized vortex positions at a spatial resolution of 5° longitude are correlated with an equatorial Pacific sea surface temperature anomaly index and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI). The 500 hPa circumpolar vortex is consistently expanded over the central Pacific during and for the entire year following warm ENSO periods. The vortex is contracted over North America concurrently with warm ENSO and to a lesser degree during the following season. Expansion/contraction variability is also evident over east Asia, although the linkages to warm or cold ENSO are weak. Sea surface temperatures have a stronger association with the vortex than does the SOI.
Effect of High Load on Statistical Fatigue of Unnotched Graphite/Epoxy Laminates*

The purpose of this paper is to verify experimentally the theoretical model for predicting the effect of the high load (or proof load) on the fatigue behavior of unnotched composite laminates. It is confirmed by the present test program that a specimen is guaranteed to survive a certain number of load cycles as predicted by the theoretical model, after the specimen has survived a high load or proof load prior to fatigue loading. The correlation between the test results and the theoretical distributions of the fatigue life and the residual strength due to the effect of high load is satisfactory.
Cold-dark-matter cosmology with non-Gaussian fluctuations from inflation.

Non-Gaussian primordial fluctuations for structure formation may be generated during the inflationary epoch from the nonlinear interaction of two scalar fields with gravity. Semianalytical stochastic inflation calculations are described for nonlinear long-wavelength evolution in 3+1 dimensions. Long-wavelength fields are governed by a single equation, the separated Hamilton-Jacobi equation. Typically, non-Gaussian fluctuations arise when the scalar fields pass over a sharp feature in their potential surface. The subsequent evolution of these primordial fluctuations are calculated as scales reenter the horizon during the radiation-dominated and matter-dominated eras of the cold-dark-matter scenario. Contour maps for the linear density perturbation as well as the gravitational potential are displayed at the present epoch. In qualitative agreement with observations, one can construct models with enhanced sheetlike structures on the scale of ${\ensuremath{\sim}25h}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ Mpc. The cleanest test of non-Gaussian fluctuations will hopefully occur in the near future from large-angle microwave-background anisotropy experiments.
The Structure of Cosmic-Ray Air Showers

Bursts of ionization occurring in each of two thin-walled unshielded ionization chambers were measured at Chicago (elevation 190 meters), with the same apparatus used at Echo Lake (elevation 3100 meters). A comparison of the size-frequency distribution curve for bursts occurring in a single chamber at Chicago with the corresponding curve observed at Echo Lake shows that the altitude dependence for bursts containing more than 50 particles is similar to the altitude dependence of large air showers measured with Geiger-M\"uller counters. In contrast to this, the altitude dependence for the largest bursts is much greater. The ratio of the coincident burst rate to the single chamber burst rate is as low at Chicago as at Echo Lake. If one assumes the validity of the cascade theory of showers and of the theory of multiple scattering of electrons in air, one must conclude from these data that showers exhibiting these narrow regions of high particle density cannot originate close to the top of the atmosphere. The data presented in this paper, together with the data of Lapp and of Carmichael, show that the slope of the size-frequency distribution curve for bursts in a single chamber is dependent upon the chamber wall.
Studies for a 1-MW pulsed spallation source in the United States

Abstract Feasibility studies of pulsed spallation neutron sources based on 1-MW (time-average) proton beams are underway in the United States. This paper describes the background for these studies, summarizes the main parameters of the designs and discusses some of the physics and engineering issues relating to high power pulsed spallation sources.
Les coachs, ni muets ni inactifs face à la dimension critique de leur travail !

Alors que le role social et organisationnel du coaching pratique dans les organisations fait l’objet de debats, cet article montre que les coachs francais sont loin d’y rester muets ou inactifs. Ces praticiens identifient en effet dans leur travail deux dimensions critiques, institutionnelles et individuelles, qui se traduisent pour certains par des comportements specifiques. Cette etude contribue alors a interroger la dimension critique intrinseque du coaching.
In search of reliable usage data on the WWW

The WWW is currently the hottest testbed for future interactive digital systems. While much is understood technically about how the WWW functions, substantially less is known about how this technology is used collectively and on an individual basis. This disparity of knowledge exists largely as a direct consequence of the decentralized nature of Web. Since each user of the Web is not uniquely identifiable across the system and the system employs various levels of caching, measurement of actual usage is problematic. This paper establishes terminology to frame the problem of reliably determining usage of WWW resources while reviewing current practice and their shortcomings. A review of the various metrics and analyses that can be performed to determine usage is then presented. This is followed by a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of the hit-metering proposal [8] currently in consideration by the HTTP working group. Lastly, new proposals, based upon server-side sampling are introduced and assessed against the other proposal. It is argued that server-side sampling provides more reliable and useful usage data while requiring no change to the current HTTP protocol and enhancing user privacy.
The effect of hematocrit and leukocyte adherence on flow direction in the microcirculation.

We sought to characterize how adherent leukocytes at the vessel wall, and the presence of erythrocytes, alter the streamlines (paths) of blood flow in the postcapillary venules. We directly visualized blood flow and leukocyte–endothelial cell interactions in postcapillary venules located in the cremaster muscle of anesthetized mice. Fluid streamlines were visualized by perfusing the cremaster muscle tissue with 0.5-micron fluorescent beads suspended in either buffer or whole blood, to examine the effect that erythrocytes have on the directionality of flow. Acute inflammation was induced in some animals by pretreatment of the vessels with tumor necrosis factor-α. To quantify the flow direction, the average deflection angle was defined as a scalar metric. Tracer bead trajectories were measurably altered by the presence of systemic levels of hematocrit, determined in each animal to be about 45%. Deviation from undirectional flow was also found to: (i) decrease with increasing vessel diameter, and (ii) increase with the number of adherent leukocytes. Fluid streamlines in the presence or absence of leukocyte adhesion or red cells agreed qualitatively with those obtained from theoretical calculations of blood flow using multiparticle adhesive dynamics. The microscale characteristics of venular flow are significantly altered during inflammation or changes in local hematocrit.
Ionization Following Beta Decay in Krypton-85

Following beta decay in the 9.4-year radioactivity of ${\mathrm{Kr}}^{85}$, the product rubidium atoms are found to be distributed in the following charge spectrum (figures in percent): charge 1, 79.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.0; charge 2, 10.9\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2; charge 3, 3.9\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1; charge 4, 3.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1; charge 5, 1.51\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07, charge 6, 0.66\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04; charge 7, 0.40\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02; charge 8, 0.19\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02; charge 9, 0.093\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01; charge 10, 0.026\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.006; charge 11, unobservable. An interpretation is made in terms of the "shaking off" of extranuclear electrons by the sudden change by +1 in the nuclear charge, the intensity of the charge-2 ions being taken as a direct measure of the probability of "shake-off" from the combined $4s$ and $4p$ shells. The combined intensities of charge 3 and higher are correspondingly equated to the summed probabilities of primary ionizations in the $n=1, 2, \mathrm{and} 3$ shells.
Administrative avenues to democratic governance: the balance of supply and demand

SUMMARY Governance interventions have evolved to a much greater emphasis on the demand side of good or democratic governance. This article discusses the need for an appropriate balance between both the demand and the supply sides. In short, while citizens need to demand, governments need to respond; both are capable of some supply; and none of these should be taken for granted. The pros and cons of a balanced approach are discussed, as well as the risks of imbalance. The article also begins to explore what a balanced approach might look like, arguing that balanced approaches incorporate a reorientation and expansion of various mechanisms of control: hierarchic/bureaucratic mechanisms are reoriented to embrace and promote democratic principles and opportunities for exit and voice; market mechanisms are exploited wherever possible; and clan mechanisms based on trust and repeated interaction are introduced and emphasized. Brief examples demonstrate that operationalizing a balanced approach entails consensus building through a series of negotiations among key stakeholders. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. THE CHANGING VIEWS OF GOVERNANCE The evolutioti of the developtnetit field detnonstrates an evolution of attitudes vis-avis the state and its role in developtnent. In the early days of development theory and practice the state was seen as the primary vehicle to development. Given the legacies of colonization, in particular, governments were viewed as possessing abilities and advantages that were not readily available in the private sector. These included, for example, managerial skills, scale and information. This emphasis on government as the primary development actor was based not only on the presumption of such advantages, but also on 'naive political perceptions' of how governments operate (Tanzi, 1997). These included assumptions that the government's primary aim was to promote social welfare, the public sector was monolithic with clear and transparent policy processes, policy decisions were reversible, and policymakers had full control over policy instruments. Disillusion with government's performance has led not only to a more realistic view of what government actually does and how it operates, but also to a growing