cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Noninvasive estimation of cardiac output with nonprescribed breathing.

A noninvasive method to estimate cardiac output\(\dot Q\) without special patient cooperation was developed by modifying a previous acetylene-helium (C2H2−He) rebreathing technique (ART). Estimation of\(\dot Q\) using ART is based on a single-compartment model that is valid only under prescribed breathing; e.g., fast, deep breathing, and emptying of the rebreathing bag on each breath. To make the ART less dependent on subject cooperation, a more sophisticated mathematical model and estimation method are needed. For this purpose, we modeled the C2H2 and He concentration dynamics at the mouth over successive breaths using a multi-compartment model. This model takes into account the effects of breathing pattern, compartmental volumes, and gas solubility. From computer simulations and sensitivity analysis, we found that\(\dot Q\) could be estimated from the available data with adequate precision. Our model and estimation method were tested on a group of six normal adult subjects, at rest and during submaximal exercise (75 watts). Estimates of\(\dot Q\) from our new method (6.5±0.4 L/min at rest, 12.5±0.4 L/min at 75 watts) were in agreement with those obtained using a previous ART (7.0±0.3 L/min at rest, 12.6±0.5 L/min at 75 watts). We conclude that this approach promises to provide reliable estimates of\(\dot Q\) in patients (e.g., children and elderly), at rest and during exercise, without the need of prescribed breathing patterns or changes in rebreathing bag volume.
Integrating Hume's Accounts of Belief and Justification

Hume's claim that a state is a belief is often intertwined—though without his remarking on this fact—with epistemic approval of the state. This requires explanation. Beliefs, in Hume's view, are steady dispositions (not lively ideas), nature's provision for a steady influence on the will and action. Hume's epistemic distinctions call attention to circumstances in which the presence of conflicting beliefs undermine a belief's influence and thereby its natural function. On one version of this interpretation, to say that a belief is justified, ceteris paribus, is to say that for all that has been shown the belief would be steady in its influence under suitable reflection. On a second version, it is to say that prima facie justification is an intrinsic property of the state, in virtue of its steadiness. These versions generate different understandings of the relationship between Parts iii and iv of Book I of the Treatise.
Determination of the accuracy of truncated Leiden and Berlin virial expansions for pure gases

Abstract The accuracy of truncated virial EoS to represent pure gas properties was studied in detail for the residual properties (Z−1), ln φ and (HR/RT). The Leiden or density expansion was examined with truncation after the second virial coefficient B and also after the third virial coefficient C and compared with the same truncation of the Berlin or pressure expansion. First a Lennard–Jones gas was studied followed by the real gases of methane, carbon dioxide and steam. The results showed conclusively the superiority of the Leiden form, whether above or below the critical temperature. Moreover, the Leiden truncation after B was competitive with the Berlin truncation after C. Tends were further noted in that the enthalpy residual is especially partial to Leiden form in comparison to the compressibility factor and fugacity coefficient, whereas Berlin forms appear to gain some improvement with molecular complexity.
PARITY OF THE PARTITION FUNCTION AND TRACES OF SINGULAR MODULI

We prove that the parity of the partition function is given by the "trace" of the Hauptmodul for at points of complex multiplication. Using Hecke operators, we generalize this to relate the Hecke traces of to the partition function modulo 2. We then prove that the generating function for these Hecke traces is equal to the logarithmic derivative of the level 6 Hilbert class polynomial. Finally, we give a procedure involving Hilbert class polynomials for computing the parity of the partition function, and make some speculations about the distribution of these universal polynomials modulo class polynomials.
Histological specificity of respiratory pigments—I. Comparisons of the coelom and muscle hemoglobins of the polychaete worm travisia pupa and the echiuroid worm arhynchite pugettensis

Abstract Ion-equalized samples of hemoglobins from the blood vessels, coelomic erythrocytes, and the body-wall muscles of the polyuchaete Travisia pupa indicate that these proteins are biochemically distinct on the basis of oxygen equilibria and denaturation. The differences in oxygen affinity suggest the following oxygen transfer system: paradopial gills, via the blood, then to the coelom, and finally to the body-wall musculature. The oxygen affinities of all three pigments are exceedingly high, as might be expected for an animal that lives in an extremely oxygen-deficient environment and is markedly sensitive to oxygen poisoning even at atmospheric oxygen partial pressures. Ion-equalized preparations of hemoglobin from the coelomic erythrocytes and the body-wall muscles of the echiuroid Arynchite pugettensis have distinct oxygen equilibria. The oxygen affinity of both pigments is much lower than those of Travisia hemoglobins. The muscle hemoglogin has a lower oxygen affinity than the coelomic pigments. Lack of informatiion on the respiratory physiology of the rare echiuroid Arhynchite and absence of data on the intracellular oxygen equilibria of the hemoglobins render the physiological interpretation of these results difficult, even though it is clear that biochemical tissue specificity of hemoglobin occurs in this worm, as well as in Travisia.
Odor detection performance of rats following d-amphetamine treatment: A signal detection analysis.

The effects ofd-amphetamine sulfate (0.2, 0.4, 0.8, and 1.6 mg/kg SC) on the odor detection performance of 16 adult male Long Evans rats was assessed using high precision olfactometry and a go/no-go operant signal detection task. The drug or saline was administered every 3rd day in a counterbalanced order, with the injections occurring 5 min before each 260-trial test session. Relative to saline, enhanced detection performance to the target stimulus (ethyl acetate), as measured by a non-parametric signal detection index (SI), was observed following administration of 0.2 mg/kg of the drug, whereas decreased detection performance was observed following administration of 1.6 mg/kg of the drug. Significant increases in the responsivity index (RI) occurred at the higher drug dosages for the lower odorant concentrations. In addition, small but statistically significant increases in the latency to respond in the presence of the odor (i.e., S+ response latency) were present at the higher drug dosages. Overall, these data suggest that (a) odor detection performance is enhanced by low doses of amphetamine, (b) odor detection performance is depressed by moderate doses of amphetamine, and (c) drug-related alterations in response criteria occur following the administration of moderate doses of amphetamine.
Study on Spatial Structure of Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration and Its Effects on Urban and Rural Regions

The Yangtze River delta urban agglomeration of China has experienced a significant development bloom in the last 30 years. To explore the spatial structure, a series of methods have been applied in...
Measurement Precision of the Sex-Role Egalitarianism Scale: A Generalizability Analysis

The Sex-Role Egalitarianism (SRE) Scale, recently developed to measure attitudes toward the equality of males and females, consists of two 95-item forms assessing attitudes across five domains of adult life. In this study, a three-facet (items, forms, and testing occasions) random effects generalizability analysis was used to evaluate the precision of each of the domain measures. Ninety-seven male and female psychology students, business students, and senior citizens completed both SRE forms on two separate occasions. Estimates of variance components, generalizability coefficients, and error were computed and examined for indications of measurement precision when generalizing over items, forms, and occasions. Two additional data collection designs are proposed and discussed, with estimates of precision and error presented for varying numbers of levels of the facets of interest.
X Chromosome Dosage Compensation

In mammals, flies, and worms, sex is determined by distinctive regulatory mechanisms that cause males (XO or XY) and females (XX) to differ in their dose of X chromosomes. In each species, an essential X chromosome-wide process called dosage compensation ensures that somatic cells of either sex express equal levels of X-linked gene products. The strategies used to achieve dosage compensation are diverse, but in all cases, specialized complexes are targeted specifically to the X chromosome(s) of only one sex to regulate transcript levels. In C. elegans, this sex-specific targeting of the dosage compensation complex (DCC) is controlled by the same developmental signal that establishes sex, the ratio of X chromosomes to sets of autosomes (X:A signal). Molecular components of this chromosome counting process have been defined. Following a common step of regulation, sex determination and dosage compensation are controlled by distinct genetic pathways. C. elegans dosage compensation is implemented by a protein complex that binds both X chromosomes of hermaphrodites to reduce transcript levels by one-half. The dosage compensation complex resembles the conserved 13S condensin complex required for both mitotic and meiotic chromosome resolution and condensation, implying the recruitment of ancient proteins to the new task of regulating gene expression. Within each C. elegans somatic cell, one of the DCC components also participates in the separate mitotic/meiotic condensin complex. Other DCC components play pivotal roles in regulating the number and distribution of crossovers during meiosis. The strategy by which C. elegans X chromosomes attract the condensin-like DCC is known. Small, well-dispersed X-recognition elements act as entry sites to recruit the dosage compensation complex and to nucleate spreading of the complex to X regions that lack recruitment sites. In this manner, a repressed chromatin state is spread in cis over short or long distances, thus establishing the global, epigenetic regulation of X chromosomes that is maintained throughout the lifetime of hermaphrodites.
Rethinking modern political theory: Essays, 1979–83

(1986). Rethinking modern political theory: Essays, 1979–83. History of European Ideas: Vol. 7, No. 6, pp. 701-702.
Metal bipolar plates for PEM fuel cell—A review

The polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) based fuel cells are clean alternative energy systems that hold excellent potential for cost effectiveness, durability, and relatively high overall efficiency. PEM fuel cell is recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as the main candidate to replace the internal combustion engine in transportation applications. Metallic bipolar plates and membrane electrode assembly (MEA) are two crucial components of a PEM power stack and their durability and fabrication cost must be optimized to allow fuel cells to penetrate the commercial market and compete with other energy sources. The bipolar plates perform as the current conductors between cells, provide conduits for reactant gases flow, and constitute the backbone of a power stack. They are commonly made of graphite composite for high corrosion resistance and good surface contact resistance; however their manufacturability, permeability, and durability for shock and vibration are unfavorable in comparison to metals. On the other hand, various methods and techniques must be developed to combat metallic corrosion and eliminate the passive layer that causes unacceptable reduction in contact resistance and possible fouling of the catalyst and the ionomer. Thus recently metallic bipolar plates have received considerable attention in the research community. This paper offers a comprehensive review of the research work conducted on metal bipolar plates to prevent corrosion while maintaining a low contact resistance.
Images of god and friends of god: the holy icon as document

Information studies, from origins in the field of docu mentation, has long been concerned with the questior What is a document? The purpose of this study is to examine Christian icons--typically tempera paintings on wooden panels--as information objects, as documents: documents that obtain meaning through tradition and standardization, documents around which a sophisticated scaffolding of classification and categorization has developed, documents that highlight their own mate riality. Theological arguments that associate the icon with the Incarnation are juxtaposed with theories on the materiality of the document and "information as thing." Icons are examined as visual and multimedia documents all icons are graphic; many also incorporate textual information. Icons emerge as a complex information resource: a resource--with origins in the earliest years of Christianity--that developed over centuries with accompanying systems of standardization and classification, resource at the center of theological and political differences that shook empires, a primarily visual resource within a theological framework that affords the visual equal status with the textual, a resource with enduring relevance to hundreds of millions of Christians, a resource that continues to evolve as ancient and modern icons take on new material forms made possible through digital technologies. And crist was all, by reason as I preve, Firste a prophete by holy informacion, And by his doctryne, most worthy of byleve. --John Lydgate. Life of OurLady. IV. II. 309-311 We confess and proclaim our salvation in word and images. --Kontakion of the Sunday of Orthodoxy
Depth of emotional experience and outcome.

Abstract The relationship between theme-related depth of experiencing (EXP) and outcome was explored in experiential therapy with depressed clients. The study sought to investigate whether depth of EXP predicts outcome, whether change in depth of EXP over therapy predicts outcome, and how these factors compare with the therapeutic alliance as predictors of outcome. The sample consisted of 35 clients, each of whom received 16 to 20 weeks of therapy. Themes that had emerged across therapy were identified. Depth of EXP was measured in relation to themes in one early session and in three sessions sampled from blocks across the last half of therapy. Analyses revealed that EXP on core themes in the last half of therapy was a significant predictor of reduced symptom distress and increased self-esteem. EXP did not correlate significantly with changes on the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems. EXP on core themes also accounted for outcome variance over and above that accounted for by early EXP and alliance.
Exact calculation of one-dimensional irreducible integrals

One-dimensional irreducible integrals (βk) are computed in the form of Mayerf-function polynomials for a general interparticle potential. Obeisance to the exact specification of the irreducible integral definition produces regularities in the interaction of star graphs with the integration process. Tables of βk fork ⩽ 5 and test solutions are presented.
Enumeration and characterization of arsenate-resistant bacteria in arsenic free soils

Abstract The numbers of arsenate-resistant bacteria present in four different soils were determined. Counts were typically in the order of 10 6 arsenate-resistant colony forming units g −1 of soil, accounting from 7 to 50% of the total viable count. Arsenate-resistant bacteria obtained from woodland soil and leaf litter were further characterized. 16S rRNA sequence analysis revealed that these bacterial isolates represented six bacterial groups including the Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. Almost all of these isolates were bacteria that have not previously been shown to tolerate arsenic. Some of these bacteria were capable of growth when exposed to high levels of arsenate (over 250 mM), although arsenite tolerance was much lower. These results support the suggestion that arsenate-resistant bacteria are common in natural environments and may play an important role in arsenic cycling in soils.
DIETARY APPROACHES TO THE TREATMENT OF THE OVERWEIGHT PEDIATRIC PATIENT

A review of recently published studies on the dieting practices of children and adolescents examines the impact those practices are having on the overall health of youth who are overweight and those who are not. Recommendations for improving the nutritional quality of children's diets are made based on the food consumption patterns of youngsters ages 2 to 18 years. If implemented, these recommendations would lower calories, fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, while improving nutrient density. Guidelines for the treatment of childhood overweight from four organizations are presented in chart form.
WE-A-103-01: Ultrasound

Ultrasound quality control (QC) testing is often over‐looked in ultrasound imaging practice because there are few regulations requiring regular QC of these systems. Many sites rely on the manufacturer's preventive maintenance program to ensure these systems are functioning optimally. However, the regulatory climate is changing, placing emphasis on safe and effective imaging practice. Regular QC testing of ultrasound equipment is a valuable tool that helps ensure proper function and good image quality in ultrasound imaging. This two‐hour session is organized in two parts. The first hour will cover the basic concepts of ultrasound performance measurement, including the tests that are recommended for acceptance and annual testing as well as routine QC, the rationale for these tests, and specific testing methods. It will also include what the physicist needs to know about ultrasound accreditation. The next hour includes two presentations related to quantitative assessment of ultrasound QC. First presented is the work of the AAPM working group on Quantitative B‐mode Ultrasound QC Test Development. This group has designed software intended to aid in the evaluation of transducer element condition. The second presentation will demonstrate use of a user‐friendly automation software, developed at the University of Wisconsin, for periodic rapid quality assurance (QA or QC) using the tissue‐mimicking conical window phantom described last year. The phantom has been designed specifically for determination of three basic parameters. A method for organizing an electronic filing system for paperless recording of results will also be described. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand what constitutes an effective ultrasound QC program. 2. Achieve familiarity with common ultrasound QC test methods and phantoms. 3. Understand what the physicist needs to know about ultrasound program accreditation. 4. Learn about a public software tool being developed by the AAPM Ultrasound Subcommittee to detect and assess transducer uniformity artifacts. 5. Learn about a user‐friendly automation software tool to address the most‐recommended ultrasound QC tests.
The influence of proximal stem geometry and surface finish on the fixation of a double-tapered cemented femoral stem.

Abstract In this study, the in vitro fixation of four otherwise identical double-tapered stem-types, varying only in surface finish (polished or matte) and proximal stem geometry (with or without flanges) were compared under two conditions. First, four specimens of each stem type were tested with initially bonded stem–cement interfaces, representing early post-operative conditions. Then, simulating conditions a few weeks to months later, stems were implanted in unused synthetic femurs, with a thin layer coating the stem to prevent stem–cement adhesion. Per-cycle motions were measured at both cement interfaces throughout loading. Overall, surface finish had the smallest relative effect on fixation compared to flanges. Flanges increased axial fixation by 22 μm per-cycle, regardless of surface finish ( P =0.01). Further, all stems moved under dynamic load at the stem–cement interface during the first few cycles of loading, even without a thin film. The results indicate that flanges have a greater effect on fixation than surface finish, and therefore adverse findings about matte surfaces should not necessarily apply to all double-tapered stems. Specifically, dorsal flanges enhance the stability of a tapered cemented femoral stem, regardless of surface finish.
Examination of Veterans Affairs Disability Compensation as a Disincentive for Employment in a Population-Based Sample of Veterans Under Age 65

Purpose Concerns that disability benefits may create disincentives for employment may be especially relevant for young American military veterans, particularly veterans of the recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan who are facing a current economic recession and turning in large numbers to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for disability compensation. This study describes the rate of employment and VA disability compensation among a nationally representative sample of veterans under the age of 65 and examines the association between levels of VA disability compensation and employment, adjusting for sociodemographics and health status. Methods Data on a total of 4,787 veterans from the 2010 National Survey of Veterans were analyzed using multinomial logistic regressions to compare employed veterans with two groups that were not employed. Results Two-thirds of veterans under the age of 65 were employed, although only 36 % of veterans with a VA service-connected disability rating of 50 % or higher were employed. Veterans who received no VA disability compensation or who were service-connected 50 % or more were more likely to be unemployed and not looking for employment than veterans who were not service-connected or were service-connected less than 50 %, suggesting high but not all levels of VA disability compensation create disincentives for employment. Results were similar when analyses were limited to veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Conclusions Education and vocational rehabilitation interventions, as well as economic work incentives, may be needed to maximize employment among veterans with disabilities.
Intercellular connections between germ cells in the developing human ovary.

An electron microscopic examination of human fetal ovaries reveals the presence of intercellular bridges between developing germ cells. The bridges are characterized by a band of electron-dense material beneath the lateral limiting membrane, and cell organelles are seen within the confines of these connections. Their general morphology is similar to that described in ovaries of other species. The possible functional significance of these connections is discussed.
A single unit digital flexor tendon prosthesis.

Historically, the surgical repair of serious injuries to the flexor tendons of the hand have met with loss than satisfactory clinical results. In an attempt to solve this problem, studies have been made on the design and testing of a Dacron polyester tendon prosthesis for complete replacement of the digital flexor tendon. The prosthesis attaches proximally at the anatomical musculotendon junction via collagen ingrowth into a fabric structure and in a similar manner distally via bone ingrowth at the anatomical insertion site. These fabrics are continuous with the tendon body of the prosthesis consisting of an inextensible braided cord which is silicone rubber coated to prevent tissue adherence in the glide zone of the tendon bed. An added benefit of the prosthesis is a simple means of length adjustment which can easily be carried out on the operating table. Studies have been performed in both dogs and chickens which indicate that sufficient tissue ingrowth occurs at both the distal and proximal anastomoses for retention of full load bearing capability in these animals and that postoperative adhesions are negligible, if present at all. Full prostheses have been implanted in dogs for periods of over 1 year and in chickens for 2 months. The chicken is the preferred animal model as a tendency for extensive scar tissue generation was shown in the dog. Both in vivo mechanical testing and histological characterizations have been made on sacrificed animals which have received the full prostheses.
The canine lymphoid system: a study of the effect of surgical excision.

A detailed study of the lymph node anatomy of the dog is presented, and a technique for surgical excision of the thymus, spleen, and all gross lymph nodes is described. The dissections were performed after intravenous administration of pontamine blue to living animals. Major excision of the lymphoid tissue of the dog led to a modest prolongation of skin allograft survival, but it did not lead to a further increase in the allograft prolongation achieved with 6-mercaptopurine immunosuppression when these two measures were used simultaneously. Neither did lymphadenectomy alter the leucopenia or toxicity of 6-mercaptopurine when node excision was performed immediately prior to initiation of drug therapy. The transient nature of both the lymphopenia produced and the alteration of allograft response after lymphadenectomy suggest that there is another major contributor to the circulating lymphocyte pool. It is suggested that this may well be the lymphoid tissue in the intestinal wall. The surgical preparation described is proposed as a model for the study of lymphoid tissue depletion and regeneration in the dog.
Characterization of P-channel power trench MOSFETs with polycrystalline silicon germanium gate electrode for faster switching

Abstract Electrical switching characteristics using polycrystalline silicon–germanium (poly-Si l− x Ge x ) gate for P-channel power trench MOSFETs was investigated. Switching time reduction of over 22% was observed when the boron-doped poly-Si gate was replaced with a similarly boron-doped poly-SiGe gate on the P-channel power MOSFETs. The fall time ( T f ) on MOSFETs with poly-SiGe gate, was found to be ∼11 ns lesser than the poly-Si gate MOSFET which is ∼60% improvement in switching performance. However, all the switching improvement was observed during the fall times ( T f ). The reason could be the higher series resistance in the switching test circuit masking any reduction in the rise times ( T r ). Faster switching is achieved due to a lower gate resistance ( R g ) offered by the poly-SiGe gate electrode as compared to poly-silicon (pSi) material. The pSi gate resistance was found to be 6.25 Ω compared to 3.75 Ω on the poly-SiGe gate measured on the same device. Lower gate resistance ( R g ) also means less power is lost during switching thereby less heat is generated in the device. A very uniform boron doping profile was achieved with-in the pSiGe gate electrode, which is critical for uniform die turn on and better thermal response for the power trench MOSFET. pSiGe thin film optimization, properties and device characteristics are discussed in details in the following sections.
Chaos in Chua's circuit

The simplest autonomous electronic circuit which can become chaotic was proposed recently by Chua. The objective of this paper is to describe a wide variety of bifurcation and chaotic phenomena observed experimentally from this circuit.
Differences in patient and clinic characteristics at CARE Act funded versus non-CARE Act funded HIV clinics.

The Ryan White CARE Act supports comprehensive care to persons with HIV infection. With an annual budget of over $1 billion, it is the largest federally funded programme for HIV care in the USA. We analysed data from the HIV Costs and Services Utilization Study, a nationally representative sample of HIV patients. Patient data were collected in 1996–97 and clinic data were collected in 1998–99. We examined whether CARE Act funded clinics differed from other HIV clinics in (1) the characteristics of their patients, and (2) their organization, staffing, and services. We found that patients at CARE Act clinics were younger, less educated, poorer, and more likely to be female, non-white, unemployed, uninsured, and have heterosexual contact as an HIV risk factor, compared to patients at other HIV clinics. CARE Act clinics tended to specialize in HIV care, had more infectious disease specialists, had fewer total patients, and provided more support services (e.g. mental health, nutrition, case management, child c...
The emergence of movement units through learning with noisy efferent signals and delayed sensory feedback

Abstract Rapid human arm movements often have velocity profiles consisting of several bell-shaped acceleration–deceleration phases, sometimes overlapping in time and sometimes appearing separately. We show how such sub-movement sequences can emerge naturally as an optimal control policy is approximated by a reinforcement learning system in the face of uncertainty and feedback delay. The system learns to generate sequences of pulse-step commands, producing fast initial sub-movements followed by several slow corrective sub-movements that often begin before the initial sub-movement has completed. These results suggest how the nervous system might efficiently control a stochastic motor plant under uncertainty and feedback delay.
Three-Dimensional Thermal Analysis for Laser Assisted Milling of Silicon Nitride Ceramics Using FEA

Laser assisted machining (LAM) is one promising method for ceramic machining. In this paper, a three-dimensional heat transfer and thermal stress analysis is completed using commercial FEA software (ANSYS) to gain some insights on the thermal aspects for laser assisted milling. The transient temperature distribution was analyzed for a silicon nitride (Si3 N4 ) ceramic workpiece undergoing a translating laser heat source which simulates the heating environment of the slot-milling operation with LAM. The effects of the operating parameters, such as laser power, laser beam diameter, laser preheat time and laser translating speed, were investigated. The thermal stresses induced from the steep temperature change and the effects of the operating parameters on thermal stresses were investigated. Additionally, the maximum-normal stress failure theory for brittle materials were employed to predict the possibility of cracking on ceramic workpiece due to thermal stresses.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Multi-phase nanocrystalline Al alloy with superior strength and modulus at elevated temperatures

A multiphase nanocrystalline Al93Fe3Cr2Ti2 alloy containing 30 vol% intermetallic particles was prepared via mechanical alloying, followed by hot extrusion. Systematic compressive tests and modulus measurements were performed as a function of temperature and strain rate. High strengths and moduli at both ambient and elevated temperatures were demonstrated. The results clearly indicated that the multiphase nanocrystalline Al93Fe3Cr2Ti2 alloy has great potential for structural applications. Furthermore, the strength of the multiphase nanocrystalline Al alloy at both room and elevated temperatures increased with the decrease in the grain size, suggesting that diffusional creep is suppressed in this alloy, even though the grain size of the alloy is below 100 nm.
Endometrial Cancer Surgery Costs: Robot vs Laparoscopy

Abstract Study Objective To compare surgical costs for endometrial cancer staging between robotic-assisted and traditional laparoscopic methods. Design Retrospective chart review from November 2005 to July 2006 (Canadian Task Force classification II-3). Setting Non-university-affiliated teaching hospital. Patients Thirty-three women with diagnosed endometrial cancer undergoing hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and pelvic and paraaortic lymph node resection. Interventions Patients underwent either robotic or traditional laparoscopic surgery without randomization. Measurements and Main Results Hospital cost data were obtained for operating room time, instrument use, and disposable items from hospital billing records and provided by the finance department. Separate overall hospital stay costs were also obtained. Mean operative costs were higher for robotic procedures ($3323 vs $2029; p Conclusion Robotic surgery costs were significantly higher than traditional laparoscopy costs for staging of endometrial cancer in this small cohort of patients.
Using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Data for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Programs

An effective state heart disease and stroke prevention program must be able to monitor changes in heart disease and stroke risk factors of the state population. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a state-based telephone survey, has been an important source for monitoring health-related factors and evaluating the success of programs. The BRFSS currently includes modules on hypertension and cholesterol screening and awareness, cardiovascular disease preventive practices, and recognition of the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke as well as relevant modules on fruit and vegetable intake, physical activity, tobacco use, and diabetes. Publication topics included monitoring risk factors and clinical services, assessing progress toward national goals, assessing health disparities, and health status and health-related quality of life issues. States have used the BRFSS data for monitoring health risks in the state, assessing state and national health objectives, determining and providing data for public health campaigns, providing information for legislative proposals, and providing information that helps to initiate collaboration. Major methodologic issues involve validating self-reported data against direct measurement and assessing the effects of changes in telecommunications. As Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) national heart disease and stroke prevention program and each state health department program develop, state and even local level data will become more important to measure the burden of disease and program impact. State heart disease and stroke prevention programs are encouraged to work closely with state BRFSS coordinators to obtain vital information to measure the burden of heart disease and stroke in their state and to be able to measure program impact on addressing the first and third leading causes of death in the U.S.
Differentiable structure for direct limit groups

A direct limit\(G = \mathop {\lim }\limits_ \to G_\alpha\) of (finite-dimensional) Lie groups has Lie algebra\(\mathfrak{g} = \mathop {\lim }\limits_ \to \mathfrak{g}_\alpha\) and exponential map exp G : g→G. BothG and g carry natural topologies.G is a topological group, and g is a topological Lie algebra with a natural structure of real analytic manifold. In this Letter, we show how a special growth condition, natural in certain physical settings and satisfied by the usual direct limits of classical groups, ensures thatG carries an analytic group structure such that exp G is a diffeomorphism from a certain open neighborhood of 0∈g onto an open neighborhood of 1 G ∈G. In the course of the argument, one sees that the structure sheaf for this analytic group structure coincides with the direct limit\(\mathop {\lim }\limits_ \to\)Cω(Gα) of the sheaves of germs of analytic functions on theGα.
Improved Neurological Outcome With Continuous Chest Compressions Compared With 30:2 Compressions-to-Ventilations Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in a Realistic Swine Model of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest

Background— The 2005 Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care changed the previous ventilations-to-chest-compression algorithm for bystander cardiopulmonary re...
Variable time discretization for a time-dependent shortest path algorithm

This paper introduces a variable time discretization strategy for a time-dependent A∗ shortest path algorithm. The strategy is aimed at determining the optimal memory allocation for time-dependent travel times data in order to achieve a desirable compromise between accuracy and memory usage. The proposed strategy is based on the dispersion index of the travel times/costs over the entire analysis period, as a result, producing different intervals for each link. The links with travel times that have a higher variance and a lower mean will need to have a shorter time discretization length due to greater fluctuation in travel times. The proposed strategy is implemented in the time-dependent A∗ algorithm and tested with a numerical experiment on a Tucson, AZ, traffic network. The results show that with the same amount of computer memory usage, the proposed variable time discretization strategy achieves much higher accuracy than that of uniform time discretization.
Convergent and concurrent validation of four measures of assertion

This study examined the relationship among the College Self-Expression Scale (CSES), the Dominance Scale of the California Psychological Inventory (Do), role-play assessment, and peer ratings of assertion. Peer ratings served as the criterion measure. Fifty-three members of a college sorority completed the CSES and the Do Scale, role played eight scenes requiring an assertive response, and rated each other on a five-point scale of assertion. Peer ratings were significantly correlated with the Do Scale and the CSES. A significant correlation was also obtained between the CSES and the Do. Role-play ratings were not significantly related to any measure. Results are discussed in terms of convergent and concurrent validity for the Do and CSES as measures of assertion. A precautionary note is presented regarding the use of role-play assessment for measuring assertion and as a behavioral validation procedure.
Effects of habitat quality and wildfire on occupancy dynamics of Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)

ABSTRACT Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) are a mechanism used for conserving land and often have an umbrella species associated with them. We conducted occupancy surveys for an umbrella species, the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica), from 2004 to 2009 in San Diego County, California, focusing on preserve lands associated with HCPs. We investigated the effects of habitat quality classification, elevation, distance to coast, and heat load on gnatcatcher occupancy, extinction, and colonization probabilities. Our work focused on these factors throughout the range of this species in San Diego County where, through conservation agreements, a preserve system has been assembled addressing management considerations at a landscape scale. In addition, a large wildfire in 2003 burned 17,044 ha, roughly 1/3 of preserve lands, thus we were able to investigate the recolonization process associated with this event. We found that occupancy increased with habitat quality and over time, b...
The relation of DNA and protein synthesis to the meiotic-mitotic transition in the zygote of Urechis caupo

Abstract In Urechis eggs fertilization results in a two- to fourfold increase in protein synthesis which can be completely inhibited by cycloheximide. This inhibition does not prevent normal meiosis, chromosome decondensation, or pronuclear fusion. It does inhibit DNA synthesis and first cleavage if the drug is added up to 55 min postfertilization. If added after this time, first cleavage proceeds normally but second cleavage is inhibited. Artificially activated eggs do not show an increase in the level of protein synthesis, but do undergo normal meiosis and first S. However, they do not form a mitotic apparatus and divide. These results are discussed in the context of the nuclear and macromolecular state of the unfertilized egg and the requirements for meiosis and mitosis.
Transcription Initiation at Its Most Basic Level

The structure of the initiator binding protein from the primitive eukaryote Trichomonas vaginalis reveals how a single protein can orchestrate promoter recognition, RNA polymerase II recruitment, and start site selection, and provides an evolutionary link with transcription initiation in higher eukaryotes.
Predicting DNA recognition by Cys2His2 zinc finger proteins

Motivation: Cys2His2 zinc finger (ZF) proteins represent the largest class of eukaryotic transcription factors. Their modular structure and well-conserved protein-DNA interface allow the development of computational approaches for predicting their DNA-binding preferences even when no binding sites are known for a particular protein. The ‘canonical model’ for ZF protein-DNA interaction consists of only four amino acid nucleotide contacts per zinc finger domain. Results: We present an approach for predicting ZF binding based on support vector machines (SVMs). While most previous computational approaches have been based solely on examples of known ZF protein–DNA interactions, ours additionally incorporates information about protein–DNA pairs known to bind weakly or not at all. Moreover, SVMs with a linear kernel can naturally incorporate constraints about the relative binding affinities of protein-DNA pairs; this type of information has not been used previously in predicting ZF protein-DNA binding. Here, we build a high-quality literature-derived experimental database of ZF–DNA binding examples and utilize it to test both linear and polynomial kernels for predicting ZF protein–DNA binding on the basis of the canonical binding model. The polynomial SVM outperforms previously published prediction procedures as well as the linear SVM. This may indicate the presence of dependencies between contacts in the canonical binding model and suggests that modification of the underlying structural model may result in further improved performance in predicting ZF protein–DNA binding. Overall, this work demonstrates that methods incorporating information about non-binding and relative binding of protein–DNA pairs have great potential for effective prediction of protein–DNA interactions. Availability: An online tool for predicting ZF DNA binding is available at http://compbio.cs.princeton.edu/zf/. Contact: mona@cs.princeton.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Estimating the surface area and volume of a general 3D shape

A new method for estimating the analog surface area and the volume of a general 3D shape is presented. The proposed method takes advantage of known boundary estimation techniques for 2D shapes, which would eliminate most, if not all, of the complex interpolation procedures and estimation schemes employed by the conventional methods. After taking into consideration the variation of digital boundary with shape orientations, the estimated perimeters are used to measure the lateral area of the 3D shape through single integration. The same approach can be applied to estimating the volume of the 3D shape.
Endocrine and Lipid Responses to Chronic Androstenediol-Herbal Supplementation in 30 to 58 Year Old Men

Objective: The effectiveness of an androgenic nutritional supplement designed to enhance serum testosterone concentrations and prevent the formation of dihydrotestosterone and estrogen was investigated in healthy 30 to 58 year old men.Design: Subjects were randomly assigned to consume a nutritional supplement (AND-HB) containing 300-mg androstenediol, 480-mg saw palmetto, 450-mg indole-3-carbinol, 300-mg chrysin, 1,500 mg gamma-linolenic acid and 1,350-mg Tribulus terrestris per day (n = 28), or placebo (n = 27) for 28 days. Subjects were stratified into age groups to represent the fourth (30 year olds, n = 20), fifth (40 year olds, n = 20) and sixth (50 year olds, n = 16) decades of life.Measurements: Serum free testosterone, total testosterone, androstenedione, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol, prostate specific antigen and lipid concentrations were measured before supplementation and weekly for four weeks.Results: Basal serum total testosterone, estradiol, and prostate specific antigen (PSA) concentratio...
Quantitative proteomics analysis reveals molecular networks regulated by epidermal growth factor receptor level in head and neck cancer.

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is overexpressed in up to 90% of head and neck cancer (HNC), where increased expression levels of EGFR correlate with poor prognosis. To date, EGFR expression levels have not predicted the clinical response to the EGFR-targeting therapies. Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying anti-EGFR-induced antitumor effects may shed some light on the mechanisms of HNC resistance to EGFR-targeting therapeutics and provide novel targets for improving the treatment of HNC. Here, we conducted a quantitative proteomics analysis to determine the molecular networks regulated by EGFR levels in HNC by specifically knocking-down EGFR and employing stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC). Following data normalization to minimize systematic errors and Western blotting validation, 12 proteins (e.g., p21, stratifin, and maspin) and 24 proteins (e.g., cdc2 and MTA2) were found to be significantly upregulated or downregulated by EGFR knockdown, respectivel...
75.2L: Late‐News Paper: A Passive‐Matrix Inorganic LED Array as a Projection Source

State-of-the-art LEDs are the brightest controllable light source known with optical intensities greater than 40W/cm2. When patterned into an array, LEDs function as both the light source and image generator for projection systems, increasing light path efficiencies by 5-10X. We fabricate a monolithically integrated 10 × 10 LED passive matrix, which validates the potential of LED arrays as projection sources.
Endophyte Effects on Growth and Persistence of Tall Fescue along a Water-Supply Gradient

Ecophysiology of the endophyte (Acremonium coenophialum Morgan-Jones and Gams)-tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) association needs to be understood in order to promote environmental fitness traits of the association while reducing its deleterious effects on ruminants. Our objective was to determine the influence of endophyte on drought stress tolerance, persistence, and yield components of field-grown tall fescue on a Typic Hapludalfs soil. A water supply gradient was established during 1988 and 1989 with line-source irrigation on established populations of 0 and 80% endophyte-infected tall fescue. Whole plots consisted of endophyte infection status, across which a gradient of water was applied in a strip-split fashion with eight replicates [...]
Minimization of the maximum peak-to-peak gain: the general multiblock problem

A comprehensive study of the general l/sub 1/-optimal multiblock problem and a new linear programming algorithm for computing suboptimal controllers are presented. By formulating the interpolation conditions in a concise and natural way, the general theory is developed in simpler terms and with a minimum number of assumptions. In addition, further insight is gained into the structure of the optimal solution, and different classes of multiblock problems are distinguished. This leads to a conceptually attractive, iterative method for finding approximate solutions. >
Migrating to Relational Systems: Problems, Methods, and Strategies

ABSTRACT In this review, migration refers to the process of moving from non-relational to relational without manually rewriting all existing applications. The paper illustrates the migration method and process, surveys the current migration products, and discusses managerial issues for making the migration process effective. The discussion of these issues will help the practitioner in planning migration projects. Keywords: Relational Migration, Relational Data Bases, Legacy Systems, Data Conversion, Language Transformation, Data Propagation
Bone Regeneration Around Immediate Implants Utilizing a Dense Polytetrafluoroethylene Membrane Without Primary Closure: A Report of 3 Cases

Case reports document successful use of a high-density polytetrafluorethylene membrane to augment horizontal defects associated with immediately placed implants. This membrane, which is designed to withstand exposure (not require primary closure) to the oral cavity because it is impervious to bacteria, reduces the need for advanced flap management to attain primary closure. Thus, the surgical aspect is less complex and the mucogingival architecture of the area can be maintained. These cases demonstrate successful use of this application and provide evidence for controlled clinical trials to further evaluate this technique.