cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ASTER spectral analysis and lithologic mapping of the Khanneshin carbonatite volcano, Afghanistan

Advanced Spaceborne Thermal and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data of the early Quaternary Khanneshin carbonatite volcano located in southern Afghanistan were used to identify carbonate rocks within the volcano and to distinguish them from Neogene ferruginous polymict sandstone and argillite. The carbonatitic rocks are characterized by diagnostic CO3 absorption near 11.2 μm and 2.31–2.33 μm, whereas the sandstone, argillite, and adjacent alluvial deposits exhibit intense Si-O absorption near 8.7 μm caused mainly by quartz and Al-OH absorption near 2.20 μm due to muscovite and illite. Calcitic carbonatite was distinguished from ankeritic carbonatite in the short wave infrared (SWIR) region of the ASTER data due to a slight shift of the CO3 absorption feature toward 2.26 μm (ASTER band 7) in the ankeritic carbonatite spectra. Spectral assessment using ASTER SWIR data suggests that the area is covered by extensive carbonatite flows that contain calcite, ankerite, and muscovite, though some areas mapped as ankeritic carbonatite on a preexisting geologic map were not identified in the ASTER data. A contact aureole shown on the geologic map was defined using an ASTER false color composite image (R = 6, G = 3, B = 1) and a logical operator byte image. The contact aureole rocks exhibit Fe2+, Al-OH, and Fe, Mg-OH spectral absorption features at 1.65, 2.2, and 2.33 μm, respectively, which suggest that the contact aureole rocks contain muscovite, epidote, and chlorite. The contact aureole rocks were mapped using an Interactive Data Language (IDL) logical operator. A visible through short wave infrared (VNIR-SWIR) mineral and rock-type map based on matched filter, band ratio, and logical operator analysis illustrates: (1) laterally extensive calcitic carbonatite that covers most of the crater and areas northeast of the crater; (2) ankeritic carbonatite located southeast and north of the crater and some small deposits located within the crater; (3) agglomerate that primarily covers the inside rim of the crater and a small area west of the crater; (4) a crater rim that consists mostly of epidote-chlorite-muscovite–rich metamorphosed argillite and sandstone; and (5) iron (Fe3+) and muscovite-illite–rich rocks and iron-rich eolian sands surrounding the western part of the volcano. The thermal infrared (TIR) rock-type map illustrates laterally extensive carbonatitic and mafic rocks surrounded by quartz-rich eolian and fluvial reworked sediments. In addition, the combination of VNIR, SWIR, and TIR data complement one another in that the TIR data illustrate more laterally extensive rock types and the VNIR-SWIR data distinguish more specific varieties of rocks and mineral mixtures.
In vivo thyroid vibro-acoustography: a pilot study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of a noninvasive ultrasound-based method, vibro-acoustography (VA), for thyroid imaging and determine the feasibility and challenges of VA in detecting nodules in thyroid. Our study included two parts. First, in an in vitro study, experiments were conducted on a number of excised thyroid specimens randomly taken from autopsy. Three types of images were acquired from most of the specimens: X-ray, B-mode ultrasound, and vibro-acoustography. The second and main part of the study includes results from performing VA and B-mode ultrasound imaging on 24 human subjects with thyroid nodules. The results were evaluated and compared qualitatively. In vitro vibro-acoustography images displayed soft tissue structures, microcalcifications, cysts and nodules with high contrast and no speckle. In this group, all of US proven nodules and all of X-ray proven calcifications of thyroid tissues were detected by VA. In vivo results showed 100% of US proven calcifications and 91% of the US detected nodules were identified by VA, however, some artifacts were present in some cases. In vitro and in vivo VA images show promising results for delineating the detailed structure of the thyroid, finding nodules and in particular calcifications with greater clarity compare to US. Our findings suggest that, with further development, VA may be a suitable imaging modality for clinical thyroid imaging.
ROLE OF ALLOPURINOL IN REDUCING CEREBRAL HVPOXIC-ISCHEMIC INJURY DURING REOXYGENATION-REPERFUSION

Oxidation of hypoxanthine (HX) by xanthine oxidase (XO) has been hypothesized to be a potential source of oxygen-derived free radicles (O2−) during reoxygenation-perfusion of hypoxic-ischemic organs. Allopurinol (Al), a XO inhibitor, can reduce reperfusion injury. During hypoxia-ischemia, components of the mitochondrial electron-transport chain become reduced. With reoxygenation-reperfusion O2− are generated. A Near Infrared Spectroscope (Niroscope) was used to continuously monitor changes in cytochrome aa3 (Cytaa3), blood volume (BV), saturated Hb (HbO) and desaturated (HB-) in 24 rats. The rats were divided into 2 groups (Gp). Gp1 (12). Wt=286±38 g (m±SD) received Al (dose 200 mg/kg IP) and was subjected to 1/2 hr period of 9.7%O2 followed by 100%O2 GP2 (12). Wt=282±4lg (m±SD) was subjected to the same 2 periods of FiO2 but without prior Al Results: Gp1 With administration of 9.7% O2, Cytaa3 became more reduced, by as much as 100% of total labile signal (TLS), with concomitant fall in BV and HbO and rise in Hb. With administration of 100% O2, Cytaa3 became more oxidized with concomitant rise in BV and HbO and fall in Hb. Gp2. During the hypoxic period (9.7%O2) the changes in Cytaa3, BV, HbO and Hb- were similar to those obtained in Gp1. However on reoxygenation with 100% O2 the Cytaa3 remained reduced despite increases in BV and HbO and fall in Hb-. To evaluate the role of HX and XO in these changes, an additional 6 rats on 100% O2 were infused with I. HX (dose calculated 10 provide a plasma concentration 30 μM/dl). 2.HX with Arabinose (dose 2-4 ml of 1.6 M Sol.) 3. HX + XO (I unit) Infusion of HX, and XO, with or without arabinose, did not result in any change in cytaa3 Our results suggest that allopurinol protect the mitochondrial electron-transport chain from O2− during reoxygenation-reperfusion following cerebral hypoxic-ischemic injury probably by scavenging O2− rather than by inhibition of xanthine oxidase.
Towards a Design Framework for Bi-Level Estimation of Turning Energy for Parts and Assemblies

This paper presents a computational framework for calculating turning energy for parts and assemblies, at two levels — early design stage and manufacturing stage. At the early design stage such energy estimation can be used to redesign the part and assemblies for manufacturing energy efficiency. At the manufacturing stage, allocation of resources based on energy efficient process planning and scheduling aids in reducing the carbon emissions of the product due to manufacturing energy production. For computing the turning energy, at the early design stage, first removal volume for turning operations for a part is identified. Then, material data and the removal volume are used to calculate a range of turning energy for manufacturing the part. If dealing with an assembly, then the above computations are applied to each individual parts and total turning energy is computed for the assembly. Energy hogging parts/features are identified based on percent contribution, which is then used to suggest parts for re-design. Application of statistical analysis and allocation of turning energy for identifying re-design parts is also explored. Re-design at the early design stage is performed at two levels — form (geometry and shape) and material. At the manufacturing stage, turning energy calculations can be utilized for optimizing the process plans. Although the framework presented in this paper is applied only to turned parts and assemblies, it can also be applied to machined parts and assemblies.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
A numerical model for simulating two-phase flow through porous media

Abstract A numerical model is developed for flow of immiscible and incompressible fluids through porous media, representing subsurface oil reservoirs. The spatial domain is discretized by using finite element theory, and the element matrices are obtained by Galerkin‘s method. The resulting nonlinear equations are solved in the time domain by subdividing the total simulation time into small time increments and approximating the variation of the variables by a polynominal of time within each time increment. The coefficients of the polynominal are determined iteratively. The iterative algorithm is presented for a linear and quadratic approximation. The method is demonstrated for two-phase flow through a homogeneous square domain. Results of a sensitivity study conducted to investigate the effect of the type of element, mesh configuration, size of time increment adopted, and the order of approximation used on the accuracy, convergence, and computational efficiency of the results predicted are presented. The results are also compared to those of another method.
Molecular phenotype of airway side population cells

Lung epithelial-specific stem cells have been localized to discrete microenvironments throughout the adult conducting airway. Properties of these cells include pollutant resistance, multipotent differentiation, and infrequent proliferation. Goals of the present study were to use Hoechst 33342 efflux, a property of stem cells in other tissues, to purify and further characterize airway stem cells. Hoechst 33342 effluxing lung cells were identified as a verapamil-sensitive side population by flow cytometry. Lung side population cells were further subdivided on the basis of hematopoietic (CD45 positive) or nonhematopoietic (CD45 negative) origin. Nonhematopoietic side population cells were enriched for stem cell antigen-1 reactivity and expressed molecular markers specific to both airway and mesenchymal lineages. Analysis of the molecular phenotype of airway-derived side population cells indicates that they are similar to neuroepithelial body-associated variant Clara cells. Taken together, these data suggest that the nonhematopoietic side population isolated from lung is enriched for previously identified airway stem cells.
Management Science, Ecology, and the Quality of Life: The Law and the Legal Process

The Law and the Legal Process are important ingredients in any attempt to insert “Quality of Life” inputs within an environmental control system. This paper discusses the interface between Environmental Concern and the Legal Process. It does not focus on current legislative enactments and proposals but rather upon the ontological constraints.
Talking Back: Teaching and Learning through Autobiographies in Multicultural Education

This research essay is intended to situate the curriculum in my multicultural education courses – of talking back through autobiographical inquiry – within real schools, a site where curriculum theorists rarely situate their work. The literature by curriculum theorists that precedes my study generally has focused on how pre-service teachers in multicultural education courses are changed (or not) as a result of course readings, discussions, and critical autobiographical reflection, all of which happen within the confines of the university classroom. My research essay extends the work of curriculum theorists on autobiography in education by focusing on the ways in which pre-service teachers use autobiographical inquiry to reflect on the impact of the context of real public schools and K-12 students on their constructions of themselves as teachers. In my extension of this work, I draw on bell hooks’ notion of “talking back” as an overarching framework in analyzing the autobiographical reflections of pre-serv...
Stark’s conjecture over complex cubic number fields

jjSystematic computation of Stark units over nontotally real base fields is carried out for the first time. Since the information provided by Stark's conjecture is significantly less in this situation than the information provided over totally real base fields, new techniques are required. Precomputing Stark units in relative quadratic extensions (where the conjecture is already known to hold) and coupling this information with the Fincke-Pohst algorithm applied to certain quadratic forms leads to a significant reduction in search time for finding Stark units in larger extensions (where the conjecture is still unproven). Stark's conjecture is verified in each case for these Stark units in larger extensions and explicit generating polynomials for abelian extensions over complex cubic base fields, including Hilbert class fields, are obtained from the minimal polynomials of these new Stark units.
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography for Breast Imaging

This article reviews the many modalities used today in the screening and diagnostic work-up of breast cancer, the second most common cause of cancer (after skin cancer) and the second most common cause of cancer death (after lung cancer) in women in the United States today. Newer technologies in breast imaging are also described, in particular the Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) as developed at the University of Rochester Medical Center. CBCT is a three-dimensional imaging modality which has potential in the screening and diagnostic work-up of women who may have breast cancer. Pilot studies show good coverage of the breast with adequate visualization of parenchymal detail and acceptable radiation dose in comparison with the gold standard of mammography.
PARAMETER EVALUATION FOR MODELING MULTICOMPONENT MASS TRANSFER IN FIXED-BED ADSORBERS

The short-bed adsorber (SBA) method developed by Weber and Liu for determination of mass transport parameters for single-component adsorbate systems in fixed-bed adsorbers has been extended to the simultaneous determination of the characteristic mass transport parameters for individual solutes in multiple-component systems. The external film transfer coefficients so obtained include the effects of pertinent process variables which can not be incorporated in coefficients developed from standard correlation procedures, such as the roughness and topography of the adsorbent and solute-solute interactions in the liquid. In like fashion, mutual solute interferences in intraparticle mass transport and competition for available adsorption capacity, either or both of which may affect intraparticle surface diffusivities and neither of which can be quantified mechanistically, can be adequately incorporated in SBA-measured values for surface diffusion coefficients in multiple-component systems.
iii) Congenital hand anomalies

Summary This is a review of congenital anomalies of the hand, taking into account the development of the upper limb, the known aetiological factors and classification of these disorders. The principles of their management are described.
Signal arrival times

A femtosecond electromagnetic pulse propagating in a linear dispersive medium is analyzed in phase spaces of (space, wave number) and (time, frequency). First moment densities are computed as eigenvalues of differential operators acting on Hilbert ray representations of the pulse in relevant domains. These moment densities are used as metrics in the relevant phase spaces to measure the local mean values and their deviations in position and wavenumber, and in time and frequency. For example, arrival times of the pulse over its spectral content are computed as the mean arrival time at a particular frequency to within one half the local deviation at that frequency. These metrics on the pulse are compared to the relevant phase space Wigner distribution.
Connexin 26 and 30 genes mutations in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Objectives: Connexin proteins play an important role in cell-to-cell communication. Mutations in the genes that encode for these connexins may potentially lead to dysfunction in mucociliary clearance predisposing to chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) or recurrent acute rhinosinusitis (RARS). The objective of this study was to assess for the presence of connexin 26 and 30 gene mutations in patients with CRS and RARS. Study Design: Prospective case series. Methods: Forty-six consecutive patients who were diagnosed with CRS or RARS at a single tertiary care facility were included in the study. Patients with known dysfunction in mucociliary clearance were excluded. The following clinical data were collected: age, gender, duration of disease and age at onset, personal history of otitis media and/or sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), and family history of paranasal sinus disease and SNHL. Buccal swab deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) specimens were sequenced for connexin 26 and 30 genes. Results: The study group consisted of 32 females and 14 males, 8 children and 38 adults. Adequate sequencing of connexin 30 gene was possible in all 46 specimens, but in only 19 specimens for connexin 26 gene. Connexin 30 gene mutations were not detected in any of the 46 specimens. Two of the 19 specimens had heterozygous mutations in the connexin 26 gene; there was one V371 mutation and one 35dG mutation. Both patients were adults; the patient with 35dG mutation had SNHL. Conclusion: Mutations in connexin 26 and 30 genes are rare in patients with CRS or RARS and do not seem to play a contributory role in the pathogensis of these disorders.
Diacylglycerols stimulate short-circuit current across frog skin by increasing apical Na+ permeability.

The phorbol ester TPA (12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate) stimulates baseline Na+ transport across frog skin epithelium and partially inhibits the natriferic response to vasopressin. The effects are produced largely or solely when TPA is added to the mucosal surface of the tissue. Although TPA activates protein kinase C, it has other effects, as well. Thus, the biochemical basis for the effects and the ionic events involved have been unclear. Furthermore, the physiologic implications have been obscure because of the sidedness of TPA's actions.
Novel Highly Fluorinated Perfluorocyclobutane-Based Phosphazene Polymers for Photonic Applications

Novel cyclophosphazenes containing aryl trifluorovinyl ether functional units together with the corresponding perfluorocyclobutane (PFCB) phosphazene polymers have been synthesized and characterized. These polymers have desirable properties for low optical loss waveguide applications. The monomers used in this study were prepared from sodium 4-(trifluorovinyloxy)phenoxides and cyclophosphazenes with fluorinated alkoxy or aryloxy side groups. The resulting polymers, produced by 2π + 2π cyclopolymerization of the aromatic trifluorovinyl ether moieties, showed good chemical stabilities and high thermal stabilities (Td up to 330 °C). Tough and transparent thin films of these polymers were readily prepared by solvent-free processes using spin-coating of the monomers. By adjusting the ratio of monomers, the refractive index of the polymers could be controlled from 1.4528 to 1.5187 at 1550 nm, with exceptionally low birefringence of Δn = 0 to 0.0003 ± 0.0002. A propagation optical loss lower than ∼0.25 dB/cm at ...
Single unit analysis of the posteroventral cochlear nucleus of the decerebrate cat

Abstract Single unit recordings were obtained in the cochlear nuclear complex of the unanesthetized, decerebrate cat. Sixty-six of 282 units were localized to the posteroventral cochlear nucleus, 17 from the multipolar cell area and 49 from the octopus cell area. Spontaneous rates ranged from less than 1 to 75 spikes per second in the multipolar cell area and from less than 1 to 135 spikes per second in the octopus cell area. Poststimulus time histograms revealed four response types, at the best frequency, in the posteroventral cochlear nucleus. These responses were: (1) primary-like (maximum response shortly after the stimulus onset, followed by a reduction in activity to a steady state); (2) chopper (similar to primary-like but with multiple peaks in the first 10–15 milliseconds); (3) onset-ex (onset response followed by a low level of excitation); and (4) onset-in (onset response followed by inhibition). The onset-in responses represented the first observations of inhibition, at best frequency, for onset units in the mammalian cochlear nuclear complex. Analysis of interspike interval distributions showed that both spontaneous and driven activity consisted of irregular intervals for all four response types. Activity-intensity functions for primary-like, chopper and onset-ex units showed monotonie increases with increases in stimulus intensity. Activity-intensity functions for onset-in units were non-monotonic. Latency-intensity functions for primary-like, chopper and onset-ex units exhibited monotonie decreases with increases in intensity. Latency-intensity functions for onset-in units were non-monotonic. In contrast to primary-like, chopper and onset-ex units, onset-in units do not retain the intensity and temporal information coded in the eighth nerve, as least for stimuli above 2 kilohertz. It is hypothesized that a depolarization block, caused by the massive eighth nerve input to octopus cells, is responsible for the inhibition observed from onset-in units.
Clearance of calcium across in situ perfused placentas of intrauterine growth-retarded rat fetuses.

ABSTRACT: Maternofetal clearance of 45Ca and 51Cr-EDTA (diffusional marker) were simultaneously measured across in situ perfused placentas of intrauterine growthretared (IUGR) and control rat fetuses on d 20 of gestation. IUGR was induced by uterine artery and vein ligation on d 17 of gestation. Control fetuses and their placentas were taken from sham-operated dams. We hypothesized that calcium transfer would be impaired across placentas of IUGR fetuses. The mean body wt of IUGR fetuses was 42% lower, and the mean nose-anus length was 16% lower than those of control fetuses. The mean total calcium content of IUGR fetuses was significantly lower than that of control fetuses, but not when it was normalized to body wt. The mean maternal whole blood ionized calcium concentration was not significantly different in the two groups. The materno-fetal clearance of 45Ca across IUGR placentas was significantly lower than that across control placentas (IUGR=35.2 ± 1.9 μL/min/g placenta, mean ± SEM; control=93.1 ± 12 μl/min/g placenta, p<0.002). In contrast, the maternofetal clearance of 51Cr-EDTA, the reference diffusional marker, was not significantly different across IUGR and control placentas. We conclude that maternofetal transfer of calcium is reduced across placentas of IUGR rat fetuses.
Development and application of tidal creek ecosystem models

Abstract Tidal creek ecosystems integrate the coastal landscape by linking upland environments to the coastal ocean. These ecosystems feature a combination of sinuous creek beds with wide lateral wetlands interspersed with mud flats and oyster reefs. Previous studies demonstrated negative relationships between habitat quality and indicators of watershed urbanization. However, predicting trends in ecological robustness for a number of irregularly branched tidal ecosystems with different watershed attributes, material inputs, and flushing is a difficult task. This study began to address this task by using a simulation framework to assess water column and sediment ecological processes in two distinct tidal creek ecosystems in South Carolina (Malind Creek versus Okatee Creek). Biogeochemical cycling in these creeks fluctuates with hourly, daily, and seasonal changes in tidal exchange, freshwater and material inputs, and autochthonous primary production. Over 2 years simulation based on 2001–2002 input data an estimated 4–5 times more freshwater entered Okatee Creek than Malind Creek even though Okatee Creek watershed and basin areas are only 2.5X larger. Phytoplankton consumed approximately 70% of all water column dissolved nitrogen annually with autochthonous production the primary source of particulate and dissolved organic carbon (OC) to the sediments. Okatee Creek had approximately 7X the net deposition of OC to the sediments were it combined with sediment microalgal biomass to drive benthic secondary production. Differences in physical transport in salt marsh dominated tidal creeks influence the capacity to process, transform, and sequester introduced materials. Modifications to the simulation model will include improved depth, volume, and tidal exchange for more realistic prediction of effective concentrations. This modeling framework connects watershed and atmospheric material loading to estuarine productivity, has been used to assess differences in ecosystem metabolism with changes in environmental drivers, and provides the foundation for a suite of sub-models to forecast the potential effects of relative sea level rise for a variety of nearshore environments.
Pedological memory in forest soil development

Abstract Individual trees may have significant impacts on soil morphology. If these impacts are non-random such that some microsites are repeatedly preferentially affected by trees, complex local spatial variability of soils would result. A model of self-reinforcing pedologic influences of trees (SRPIT) is proposed to explain patterns of soil variability in the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas. SRPIT postulates that trees are preferentially established on patches that are nutrient-rich and rock fragment poor relative to adjacent sites. The biomechanical effects of trees on soil, and decomposition of roots then maintain and reinforce the rock fragment and nutrient differences relative to surrounding soils, increasing the likelihood of successful future tree establishment. The links hypothesized in the SRPIT model are dynamically unstable, which would be necessary for the self-reinforcing mechanisms to operate. Soil variability in 16 study plots is dominated by local, within-plot variability, pointing to highly localized biological effects and consistent with the SRPIT model. Within each 0.127 ha plot, 4–11 different series, and 4–9 different rock fragment classes were found. Of the 10 paired pits at each plot, 3–7 pairs had different series in pits typically less than 1 m apart. On average, each of the 16 plots had 6.3 different soil types, 6 different rock fragment classes, and 60% of the sample pairs differing in soil series. Richness–area analysis of soil series, and of rock fragment classes, both indicate that pedodiversity is dominated by within-plot rather than between-plot variability. The vertical variations in the concentration of rock fragments in 40 of 58 soil pits is consistent with redistribution of soil material by tree throw, and there is also evidence of rock fragment displacement by tree growth and deposition in stump holes. Overall, results suggest that soil morphological effects of individual trees are an important source of soil spatial variability in forests, and that such effects are non-random over time. Thus even relatively homogeneous areas may be characterized by tree-rich patches which support repeated generations of trees, and tree-poor patches which more rarely host trees.
Ventricular tachycardia as the initial manifestation of ischemia: Documentation of a Mechanism presaging sustained tachyarrhythmias.

VLAY, S.C.: Ventricular Tachycardia as the Initial Manifestation of Ischemia: Documentation of a Mechanism Presaging Sustained Tachyarrhythmias. Nonsustained ventricular tachycardia was the initial and only clinical manifestation of myocardial ischemia in a 64-year-old woman evaluated for new onset palpitations. There was no ECG or echocardiographic evidence of ischemia but emergent coronary angiography revealed critical lesions. After angioplasty and stenting of the right coronary artery, ventricular ectopy disappeared. This report documents a mechanism of initiation of sustained ventricular arrhythmias.
Objectives to direct the training of emergency medicine residents on off-service rotations; radiologic imaging 1: Plain films.

Abstract Interpretation of radiologic images is an essential skill for the emergency physician. This is the first of two sets of objectives for an off-service rotation in radiology. It covers the interpretation of plain films. The second series will address commonly used, but more sophisticated, imaging modalities including the use of contrast materials, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. This set of objectives may be used to guide a one-month radiology rotation or serve as part of a teaching program integrated with didactic training and emergency department experience.
Discovery of Kilohertz Quasi-periodic Oscillations from 4U 1820–303 with Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer

We have detected high-frequency (HF) quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) from the low-mass X-ray binary 4U 1820-303 during observations performed in 1996 October using the Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer. The QPOs are visible when the source occupies the low-state luminosity range LX = 2.4-3.1 × 1037 ergs s-1 (2-20 keV, at 6.4 kpc); the centroid frequency of the main QPO peak varies between 546 ± 2 Hz and 796 ± 6 Hz and is tightly correlated with the source count rate. The measured QPO widths are typically ~20 Hz, with mean rms amplitude 4.1% ± 0.3%. At the upper end of this luminosity range a second significant QPO peak appears with frequency 1065 ± 7 Hz, width 40 ± 20 Hz, and rms amplitude 3.2% ± 0.8%. When both QPOs are visible simultaneously, the difference between their frequencies is 275 ± 8 Hz. When the source brightens beyond LX = 3.1 × 1037 ergs s-1 (~10% of the Eddington limit for a helium-rich envelope), neither QPO is detected. Neither the magnetospheric beat frequency model nor the sonic point model of HF QPOs provides a perfect explanation of the phenomenology we observe. These results represent the first detection of kilohertz QPO activity in a globular cluster X-ray binary, and provide a new method of directly comparing the properties of cluster and noncluster neutron star binaries. If the highest QPO frequency we observe is identified with the marginally stable orbit in the accretion disk, the neutron star mass may be ~2 M☉, 35%-50% more massive than usually assumed. This may have consequences for the current evolutionary scenarios for this source and also for the debate about the evolution of millisecond pulsars in globular clusters.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the rhesus monkey brain: use for stereotactic neurosurgery

Standard stereotactic procedures rely upon external cranial landmarks and standardized atlases for localization of subcortical neural regions. Magnetic resonance imaging permits the visualization of the neural structure of the brain in vivo. A stereotactic instrument compatible with a magnetic resonance unit was constructed and together with magnetic resonance imaging a procedure was developed that overcomes the limitations and inaccuracies of the traditional stereotactic methods and allows accurate and reliable localization of subcortical targets in the rhesus monkey brain.
Activation and phosphorylation adipose tissue hormone-sensitive lipase by cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase

Abstract 1. 1. Hormone-sensitive lipase purified approximately 100-fold from rat adipose tissue was activated 50 to 100% by incubation with cyclic AMP, ATP-Mg2+ and a protein kinase preparation from rabbit muscle. Activation of this purified lipase depended totally on addition of protein kinase and both cyclic AMP and ATP. The apparent Km for cyclic AMP was 1.1 · 10−7 M; that for ATP was 5 · 10−6 M. 2. 2. In the presence of [ψ-32P]ATP, activation was accompanied by transfer of radioactivity to lipase and the bound radioactivity showed properties compatible with those of serine O-phosphate. The time course for phosphorylation closely paralleled that for lipase activation. The apparent Km for cyclic AMP in the phosphorylation reaction was the same as that for activation within experimental error. No phosphorylation was observed in the absence of cyclic AMP, but there was a small but significant degree of phosphorylation not dependent on added protein kinase. 3. 3. In cruder fractions full activation was obtained on addition of cyclic AMP and ATP-Mg2+ alone, presumably reflecting the presence of sufficient endogenous protein kinase in these fractions. 4. 4. When tissue had been exposed to epinephrine before homogenization neither the cruder fractions nor the purified lipase could be activated. 5. 5. These results strongly support the conclusion that hormonal activation of adipose tissue lipase is mediated by cyclic AMP, that the cyclic AMP acts via protein kinase, and that the conversion of inactive lipase is linked to enzyme phosphorylation. The possibility that the high-molecular-weight lipase preparation includes other enzymes, specifically a “lipase kinase” analogous to Krebs' phosphorylase b kinase, cannot be ruled out.
The Effect of Depuration on Transmission of Aeromonas salmonicida between the Freshwater Bivalve Amblema plicata and Arctic Char

Abstract A model system was used to study bacterial fish pathogen transmission between the freshwater bivalve Amblema plicata and two strains (Nauyuk and Labrador) of Arctic char Salvelinus alpinus. Aeromonas salmonicida, the cause of fish furunculosis, was readily transmitted from Arctic char to A. plicata and vice versa via simple cohabitation. Clinical furunculosis was artificially established in Nauyuk Arctic char via horizontal exposure to Labrador Arctic char that received intraperitoneal injections of A. salmonicida. After the Nauyuk Arctic char began to die, A. plicata were placed in the tank with the fish. After 33 d of cohabitation, a group of 10 A. plicata was cultured, and A. salmonicida was isolated from all 10. The remaining A. plicata were transferred to other tanks being supplied with specific-pathogen-free water. At 1, 5, 15, and 30 d after transfer, 60 uninfected Labrador Arctic char were cohabitated with the A. plicata. Transmission of A. salmonicida from A. plicata to the Arctic char w...
Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Mitrofanoff Appendicovesicostomy Technique and Outcomes of Extravesical and Intravesical Approaches

Abstract Background With growing experience in pediatric robotic surgery, select centers are now performing robot-assisted, laparoscopic Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy (RALMA). Objective We present our technique and outcomes of RALMA with or without enterocystoplasties and compare stomal outcomes between two different approaches of the appendicovesical anastomosis: an extravesical (EV) anterior bladder approach and an intravesical (IV) posterior bladder approach. Design, setting, and participants Data from 18 children who have undergone RALMA since 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. RALMA was performed by one surgeon in an academic setting. Surgical procedure The appendix was anastomosed on the posterior wall of the bladder intravesically when concomitant enterocystoplasty was done. Otherwise, the appendix was anastomosed extravesically on the anterior wall of the bladder. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis The primary outcome measured was the overall continence rate. Secondary outcomes included the overall complication rate and stomal complications. Results and limitations The entire cohort included 18 patients (10 IV, 8 EV). The mean overall operative time was 494.1min. The mean overall length of hospitalization was 5.2 d. There were five immediate, postoperative complications (all Clavien grade 1): three postoperative ilea, one stomal site infection, and one clogged suprapubic catheter. Median follow-up was 24.2 mo. The overall stomal continence rate was 94.4%. One patient from the IV group required dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer for stomal incontinence. Among the eight patients in the EV cohort, there was one stomal complication of stomal stenosis (Clavien grade 1). Among the 10 patients in the IV cohort, there were two stomal complications requiring revisions (both Clavien grade 3): parastomal hernia and stomal stenosis. Limitations of the study include retrospective design, small number of patients, and lack of direct comparison of approaches given the nature of the surgery. Conclusions Our updated outcomes of RALMA with or without enterocystoplasty continue to be encouraging, with a 94.4% continence rate. We believe that anterior EV reimplantation is a feasible option in isolated RALMA.
Magnetic-field tuning of the frequency and sensitivity response of a magnetoelastic biosensor

Magnetoelastic sensors exhibit a characteristic resonance frequency upon the application of an alternating magnetic field. In this research, magnetoelastic material was fabricated into micro-sized sensors coated with JRB7 phages to specifically detect Bacillus anthracis spores. Research had shown that the sensor's resonant frequency decreases linearly as its mass increases. As spores are captured, the mass increases. A high mass-sensitivity of up to 7.5 Hz/pg allowed this sensor's use in applications requiring accurate sensing of a very low concentration of B. anthracis spores. A B. anthracis spore weighs about 2 picograms. Two different sizes of sensors, 2000×400 μm and 1000×200 μm, were used in this study. The resonant frequency and the sensitivity of the sensors were found to vary under different magnitudes of DC biasing magnetic field. It was found that both the resonant frequency and the Q-value of the sensed signal increase with an increase of the magnitude of the DC magnetic field until they approach magnetic saturation. As the magnetic field was changed from low to high, it was observed that the signal amplitude increased to a maximum and then decreased to undetectable. Finally, real-time detection of B. anthracis spores is performed under the optimum magnetic field condition.
Virtual engineering approaches in product and process design.

Virtual prototyping techniques are being extensively used in industry world wide, as they provide cross-functional evaluation at a lower cost, enable engineers to consider downstream issues earlier in the product design cycle, as well as facilitate better communication of product/process design issues among engineers of varying backgrounds. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review on virtual prototyping research efforts in various engineering domains, including design and manufacturing.
Reliable evacuation planning via demand inflation and supply deflation

This paper presents an evacuation route planning model that both accounts for demand uncertainty (i.e. the number of evacuees) as well as capacity uncertainty (i.e. the road capacities). To ensure reliability, the model plans for more evacuees (i.e. demand inflation) and less road capacity (i.e. supply deflation). A major contribution is that we provide a framework to determine the amount of demand inflation/supply deflation necessary to ensure a user-specified reliability level. The model is shown to be a natural generalization of previously proposed evacuation models. A small numerical case study reveals the key characteristics of the model.
Homeomorphically irreducible spanning trees

We show that if G is a graph such that every edge is in at least two triangles, then G contains a spanning tree with no vertex of degree 2 (a homeomorphically irreducible spanning tree). This result was originally asked in a question format by Albertson, Berman, Hutchinson, and Thomassen in 1979, and then conjectured to be true by Archdeacon in 2009.
Degradation of Yttria Stabilized Zirconia Thermal Barrier Coatings by Molten CMAS (CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2) Deposits

In advanced gas turbine engines that operate in a dust-laden environment causing ingestion of siliceous debris into engines, thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are highly susceptible to degradation by molten CMAS (calcium-magnesium alumino silicate) deposits. In this study, the degradation mechanisms other than the commonly reported thermomechanical damage are investigated with an emphasis on the thermochemical aspects of molten CMAS induced degradation of TBCs. Free-standing yttria stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) TBC specimens in contact with a model CMAS composition were subjected to isothermal heat treatment in air at temperatures ranging from 1200°C to 1350°C. Phase transformations and microstructural development were examined by using x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Starting at 1250°C, the molten CMAS readily infiltrated and dissolved the YSZ coating followed by reprecipitation of zirconia with a different morphology and composition that depends on the local melt chemistry. Significant amount of Y2O3 depleted monoclinic ZrO2 phase evolved from CMAS melt that dissolved ť-ZrO2 was evident. Thus the mechanism of dissolution and reprecipitation due to molten CMAS damage resulted in destabilization of the YSZ with disruptive phase transformation (t’  f + m).
Tracking Control of Limit Cycle Oscillations in an Aero-Elastic System

Limit cycle oscillations (LCOs) affect current fighter aircraft and are expected to be present on next generation fighter aircraft. Current efforts in control systems designed to suppress LCO behavior have either used a linear model, restricting the flight regime, require exact knowledge of the system dynamics, or require uncertainties in the system dynamics to be linear-in-the-parameters and only present in the torsional stiffness. Furthermore, the aerodynamic model used in prior research efforts neglects nonlinear effects. This paper presents the development of a controller consisting of a continuous robust integral of the sign of the error (RISE) feedback term with a neural network (NN) feedforward term to achieve asymptotic tracking of uncertainties that do not satisfy the linear-in-the-parameters assumption. Simulation results are presented to validate the performance of the developed controller.
Measuring Stress Before and During Pregnancy: A Review of Population-Based Studies of Obstetric Outcomes

Mounting evidence from clinic and convenience samples suggests that stress is an important predictor of adverse obstetric outcomes. Using a proposed theoretical framework, this review identified and synthesized the population-based literature on the measurement of stress prior to and during pregnancy in relation to obstetric outcomes. Population-based, peer-reviewed empirical articles that examined stress prior to or during pregnancy in relation to obstetric outcomes were identified in the PubMed and PsycInfo databases. Articles were evaluated to determine the domain(s) of stress (environmental, psychological, and/or biological), period(s) of stress (preconception and/or pregnancy), and strength of the association between stress and obstetric outcomes. Thirteen studies were evaluated. The identified studies were all conducted in developed countries. The majority of studies examined stress only during pregnancy (n = 10); three examined stress during both the preconception and pregnancy periods (n = 3). Most studies examined the environmental domain (e.g. life events) only (n = 9), two studies examined the psychological domain only, and two studies examined both. No study incorporated a biological measure of stress. Environmental stressors before and during pregnancy were associated with worse obstetric outcomes, although some conflicting findings exist. Few population-based studies have examined stress before or during pregnancy in relation to obstetric outcomes. Although considerable variation exists in the measurement of stress across studies, environmental stress increased the risk for poor obstetric outcomes. Additional work using a lifecourse approach is needed to fill the existing gaps in the literature and to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms by which stress impacts obstetric outcomes.
Localization of connexin43 in rat kidney

Localization of connexin43 in rat kidney. The localization of connexin43 (Cx 43) in rat kidney was investigated by the indirect immunofluorescence technique with polyclonal antisera raised against Cx 43. Cx 43 is a gap junction protein expressed in a variety of tissues. The typically punctuated gap junction immunofluorescence (GJI) was observed in the renal arterial and arteriolar system. In the renal artery the GJI was concentrated in the media. In the juxtamedullary nephrons, the GJI is particularly abundant in the vascular bundles. There is abundant GJI in the extraglomerular mesangium while in the afferent arteriole GJI appears decreased. Abundant GJI was observed in the inner medullary collecting ducts and pelvic epithelium. The localization of Cx 43 immunofluorescence observed in this study is only in partial agreement with the results of ultrastructural investigations on the distribution of gap junctions in the kidney. An extensive tight junctional system has been demonstrated in the collecting duct system. However, gap junctions have been reported to be absent. Further studies to resolve this discrepancy are required.
Transplantation for hilar cholangiocarcinoma

1. Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) have a 8 to 12% risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). 2. Cytologic techniques for aneuploidy such as digital image analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization increase the detection rate for CCA. 3. Survival following resection for CCA is 20% to 40% at 5 years. 4. Survival following liver transplantation for unresectable, perihilar CCAs, mass lesion if present <3 cm, is greater than 80% at 5 years. 5. Patients with intrahepatic CCAs are not eligible for liver transplantation.
Effect of Ring Fusion on the Electronic Absorption and Emission Properties of Oligothiophenes

A series of fused-ring oligothiophenes were synthesized by a combination of Stille and oxidative coupling reactions. Compounds with the same number of double bonds, but varying in extent of planarization, display a similar longest wavelength absorption maximum in solution. However, the introduction of sulfur linkages into these oligothiophenes leads to a blue shift of the maximum emission wavelength and a correspondingly smaller Stokes shift.
Method of Determining the Spin and Parity of a Pion-Hyperon Resonance

The reaction sequence, ${M}_{1}+{N}_{1}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{Y}^{*}+{M}_{2}$; ${Y}^{*}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}Y+{\ensuremath{\pi}}_{1}$; $Y\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{N}_{2}+{\ensuremath{\pi}}_{2}$ is considered, where ${M}_{1}$ and ${M}_{2}$ are spin-zero mesons, ${N}_{1}$ and ${N}_{2}$ are nucleons, $Y$ is a $\ensuremath{\Lambda}$ or ${\ensuremath{\Sigma}}^{+}$ particle, and ${Y}^{*}$ is a pion-hyperon resonance of spin \textonehalf{} or $\frac{3}{2}$. The general form of the angular distribution of the particles ${\ensuremath{\pi}}_{1}$ and ${N}_{2}$ is written down under the assumption that final state interactions between the meson ${M}_{2}$ and the ${Y}^{*}$ decay particles may be neglected. If any polarization of the hyperon $Y$ exists, the spin and parity of the resonance ${Y}^{*}$ may be determined from this angular distribution. The structure of the spin density matrix of the ${Y}^{*}$ is discussed.