cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intra-particle migration of mercury in granular polysulfide–rubber-coated activated carbon (PSR-AC)

Abstract The depth profile of mercuric ion after the reaction with polysulfide–rubber-coated activated carbon (PSR-AC) was investigated using micro-X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) imaging techniques and mathematical modeling. The μ-XRF results revealed that mercury was concentrated at 0–100 μm from the exterior of the particle after 3 months of treatment with PSR-AC in 10 ppm HgCl2 aqueous solution. The μ-X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopic (μ-XANES) analyses indicated HgS as a major mercury species, and suggested that the intra-particle mercury transport involved a chemical reaction with PSR polymer. An intra-particle mass transfer model was developed based on either a Langmuir sorption isotherm with liquid phase diffusion (Langmuir model) or a kinetic sorption with surface diffusion (kinetic sorption model). The Langmuir model predicted the general trend of mercury diffusion, although at a slower rate than observed from the μ-XRF map. A kinetic sorption model suggested faster mercury transport, which overestimated the movement of mercuric ions through an exchange reaction between the fast and slow reaction sites. Both μ-XRF and mathematical modeling results suggest mercury removal occurs not only at the outer surface of the PSR-AC particle but also at some interior regions due to a large PSR surface area within an AC particle.
Low-temperature phosphorescence spectrometry of some pharmaceutical compounds

Abstract The low-temperature (77 K) phosphorescence values of several pharmaceutical compounds are presented. The analytical figures of merit for 30 compounds are reported using a mixture of ethanol/water as solvent. The limits of detection are found to range from 2 to 200 ppb for most of them with a blank average standard deviation of 15%. The spectral band half-widths of excitation and emission of all compounds are also reported.
Pollen count variability

Abstract Rationale Daily pollen counts provide a snapshot of the atmosphere for a given area and typically represent the average daily concentration from a single sampler. However, a great deal of variability exists within the atmosphere due to the diurnal rhythms of pollen discharge, fluctuations related to weather events, spatial effects, sampler function, and methods of analysis. Methods This study examined temporal and spatial variability of pollen from two Burkard spore traps placed approximately 2.0 m apart on a roof approximately 12 m above ground level. Methods of analysis were also examined. Samples were analyzed for the ragweed season from Aug 15, 1997 to Oct 26, 1997. Spore trap flow rates were maintained at 10 L/min. Results Analysis showed a significant correlation between the daily concentrations (r=0.97, p Conclusion Pollen counts represent an estimate of the atmospheric pollen levels rather than absolute numbers. Although it is not possible to routinely analyze multiple samples or to use multiple methods, the clinical significance of the atmospheric variability should always be considered.
Warn me now or inform me later: Drivers' acceptance of real-time and post-drive distraction mitigation systems

Vehicle crashes caused by driver distraction are of increasing concern. One approach to reduce the number of these crashes mitigates distraction by giving drivers feedback regarding their performance. For these mitigation systems to be effective, drivers must trust and accept them. The objective of this study was to evaluate real-time and post-drive mitigation systems designed to reduce driver distraction. The real-time mitigation system used visual and auditory warnings to alert the driver to distracting behavior. The post-drive mitigation system coached drivers on their performance and encouraged social conformism by comparing their performance to peers. A driving study with 36 participants between the ages of 25 and 50 years old (M=34) was conducted using a high-fidelity driving simulator. An extended Technology Acceptance Model captured drivers' acceptance of mitigation systems using four constructs: perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, unobtrusiveness, and behavioral intention to use. Perceived ease of use was found to be the primary determinant and perceived usefulness the secondary determinant of behavioral intention to use, while the effect of unobtrusiveness on intention to use was fully mediated by perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. The real-time system was more obtrusive and less easy to use than the post-drive system. Although this study included a relatively narrow age range (25 to 50 years old), older drivers found both systems more useful. These results suggest that informing drivers with detailed information of their driving performance after driving is more acceptable than warning drivers with auditory and visual alerts while driving.
Tribochemical Applications of High-Intensity Ultrasound: Sonochemical Production of Intermetallic Coatings in Heterogeneous Media

An energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) study of binary mixtures of mixed composition metal powders exposed to high-intensity ultrasound in decane indicates that metal particles are fused by the action of ultrasound and develop intermetallic coatings. The principal mechanism behind both processes is interparticle collision caused by the rapid movement of particles propelled by shockwaves generated at cavitation sites. By examination of systems with differing metallurgical compatibilities (Ni/Co, Cu/Cr, and Cu/Mo), it has been determined that the intermetallic coatings are generated by both adhesive wear and direct impact. The mechanisms of ultrasound-induced coatings are discussed.
Achieving the American Dream: Facilitators and Barriers to Homeownership among Immigrants

Abstract As of March 2003, the immigrant population in the United States (US) has reached 33.5 million individuals. Finding a way out of poverty is very difficult for many immigrants due to both individual and institutional barriers to savings and asset accumulation. Given that the primary sources of wealth among native-born households is through homeownership, it is only fitting that foreign-born households would also wish to achieve the “American Dream.” This paper outlines significant supports and barriers to savings and, more importantly, homeownership among US immigrants. Several suggestions for asset-based policy development for immigrants are also included in the discussion. By examing these concepts, policy practitioners can learn how to improve economic well-being for current immigrants and future generations of Americans.
Lane Utilization at Two-Lane Arterial Approaches to Double Crossover Diamond Interchanges

Double crossover diamond (DCD) interchanges, also known as diverging diamond interchanges, are popular and promising alternative interchanges that are increasingly being implemented nationwide. One unique feature of a DCD interchange is that through movements on the arterial road have to cross each other twice to complete their movements, while enabling left-turn movements from the arterial to the freeway to proceed without stopping at the downstream intersection. Consequently, interchanges with heavy left-turn movements are good candidates for DCD implementation. This unique feature of a DCD interchange means that there is a need to research lane utilization at the upstream approach intersection of DCD interchanges, as the lane use could be unbalanced. This unbalanced lane utilization could have a significant effect on operations at the first crossover and the interchange as a whole. This study examined lane utilization factors provided in the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 (HCM) for conventional diamond i...
Ammonium removal in constructed wetlands with recirculating subsurface flow: removal rates and mechanisms

From June 1993 through February 1994, the removal of NH4-N was evaluated in constructed wetlands at the TVA constructed wetland research facility in Muscle Shoals, AL. The objectives were to determine rates for NH4-N removal and speculate on potential mechanisms for removal. Nine constructed wetland cells were used with approximate dimensions of 9.1 × 6.1 × 0.6 m3 and a recirculating subsurface flow system in a gravel base. Treatments consisted of an unplanted (WO=control) and two polycultural planting schemes (P1= Scirpus acutus, Phragmites communis and Phalaris arundinacea ; P2= Typha sp., Scirpus atrovirens georgianus and Scirpus cyperinus ) replicated 3 times. Salt solutions were added and recirculated in each cell resulting in initial concentrations of 50 and 300 mg l−1 of NH4-N and COD, respectively, when fully diluted with wetland water. Salts were added to wetlands approximately every 6 weeks with the first addition on June 1, 1993 and the last addition on February 9, 1994 for a total of 6 time periods (times I, II, III, IV, V and VI). The COD of the waters was removed at rates ranging from 5.5 to 10 g/m2/d during times I through IV with no discernible difference amongst the planting treatments. Wetland cells with P1 were more efficient at removing NH4-N (1.1 g/m2/d) than P2 (0.6 g/m2/d) or WO (0.5 g/m2/d) at time I with differences decreasing by time IV (0.3 to 0.7 g/m2/d). During the winter (times V and VI), there were no differences in NH4-N removal amongst planting treatments with an average removal rate of 0.35 g/m2/d. There was a seasonal change in NH4-N removal in all the treatments, with the change most noticeable in the planted cells. The removal of NH4-N in WO was speculated to be due to a combination of sorption onto gravel, microbial assimilation, and nitrification at the air-water interface. The extra NH4-N removal in the planted cells diminished in the winter because the removal was most likely due to a combination of enhanced nitrification from O2 transport and NH4-N uptake mediated by seasonal macrophyte growth.
Iterative triangulation: a theory development process using existing case studies

Abstract To cope with the growing frequency and magnitude of changes in technology and managerial methods, Operations Management (OM) researchers have been calling for greater employment of field-based research methods. A notable example is grounded theory development using original case studies. Based on in-depth examinations of `real-world' operations conditions, case studies potentially improve the relevance and workability of resulting OM theory. However, developing original case studies requires considerable time and expense, straining research resources and often limiting the number of operations settings that can be studied and compared during induction. Existing case studies offer a potentially effective and efficient means for comparing complex and disparate operations settings. This paper proposes a novel theory development process, termed iterative triangulation, for tapping this potential. Iterative triangulation employs systematic iterations between literature review, case evidence, and intuition. The process enhances theory creativity, utility, and validity by deliberately increasing the diversity and quantity of literature reviewed, of cases found, of conjectures examined, and of conjecture selection criteria. Comparing and contrasting emerging constructs and theory across case settings refines conceptual definitions and strengthens internal validity, enhancing testability of resulting theory. A study of advanced manufacturing technology design illustrates the method.
Neurotrophic Factors and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Recent evidence from animal models of diabetes and human diabetic subjects suggests that the reduced availability of neurotrophic factors may contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Of these proteins, nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, neurotrophin (NT-3) and NT-4/5 appear to be important for the development and maintenance of peripheral neurons, but others, including insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), may also be involved. Studies with NGF, NT-3, IGF-I and IGF-II both in vitro and in animal models of neuropathies (including DPN) suggest that these factors ameliorate nerve degeneration. Recombinant human NGF is the first neurotrophic factor to enter clinical trials for DPN and is currently being tested in two phase III studies.
Neuropsychiatric complications of aging with HIV

Persons over age 50 are not only aging with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection but also represent a high proportion of new HIV infections. Neuropsychiatric symptoms, including depression, cognitive impairment, and substance abuse, are very common in individuals infected with HIV. However, there is little understanding of the relationship between these HIV-related comorbid conditions in newly infected elderly patients compared to uninfected elderly and those who have survived after 20 years of HIV/AIDS. We summarize the current theories and research that link aging and HIV with psychiatric illnesses and identify emerging areas for improved research, treatment, and patient care.
Pt thin films on stepped SrTiO3 surfaces: SrTiO3(6 2 0) and SrTiO3(6 2 2)

Abstract As a first step in understanding Pt growth on chiral SrTiO 3 surfaces we have examined Pt adsorption on the stepped SrTiO 3 (6 2 0) and SrTiO 3 (6 2 2) surfaces using plane-wave density functional theory. We find that for both stepped SrTiO 3 surfaces Pt adsorbs more strongly along the step versus the terrace. We also report on the interface strength of Pt slabs on both terminations of SrTiO 3 (6 2 0) and (6 2 2). We find that the interface strength is considerably larger than found for Pt slabs on the low-Miller index SrTiO 3 surfaces. Our results indicate that step-flow growth of Pt that retains the underlying morphology of the stepped SrTiO 3 surface is likely to be favored over island nucleation on terraces. This preliminary work indicates that the growth of thin metal films on chiral metal oxides may be a viable approach to producing cheap chiral metal surfaces.
Examination of Gravity Waves Associated with the 13 March 2003 Bow Echo

AbstractNumerical simulations of the 13 March 2003 bow echo over Oklahoma are used to evaluate bow echo development and its relationship with gravity wave generation. Multiple fast-moving (with speeds of 30–35 m s−1) gravity waves are generated in association with fluctuations in the first vertical mode of heating in the convective line. The surface impacts of four such waves are observed in Oklahoma Mesonet data during this case. Observations of surface pressure surges ahead of convective lines prior to the bowing process are reproduced; a slower gravity wave produced in the simulation is responsible for a prebowing pressure surge. This slower gravity wave, moving at approximately 11 m s−1, is generated by an increase in low-level microphysical cooling associated with an increase in rear-to-front flow and low-level downdrafts shortly before bowing. The wave moves ahead of the convective line and is manifested at the surface by a positive pressure surge. The pattern of low-level vertical motion associated...
A personal computer programmable sine-wave generator

A programmable sine-wave generator has been developed that permits microcomputer control of both discrete and continuous variations in the frequency and amplitude of auditory, visual, or vibrotactile stimuli. The function and design of the sine-wave generator as a peripheral to the Apple II/FIRST system are detailed. Moreover, adaptations of the basic sine-wave circuit are briefly described for interfacing it with other microcomputers (e.g., the IBM PC and compatibles), and for altering the waveform, range, and resolution of the output. Sample programs in Apple II/FIRST and Applesoft BASIC for controlling signal frequency and amplitude are used to illustrate the simplicity of programmable control. The sine-wave generator has many of the capabilities of commercially available ones, at a fraction of the cost.
Sex Hormones and Their Relation to Tumors

In an earlier period it was shown that an ovarian hormone interacting with hereditary factors is responsible for the development of mammary gland carcinoma in mice. It was shown, furthermore, that the number and age of the mice so affected depend in a quantitative manner on the length of time during which the hormone has a chance to act on the recipient tissue, or, expressed differently, on the total quantity of hormone given off during this period. By diminishing this time and the quantity of hormone, the incidence of tumors can be diminished proportionately, and if a certain threshold has been reached the appearance of tumors can be prevented altogether. Strains and families of mice can be separated, which, in accordance with their hereditary characteristics, respond with very unequal readiness to approximately the same quantity of hormone. An analysis of the sexual cycle made it appear probable that, of the two ovarian hormones, it is the follicular hormone which is responsible for this effect. These investigations have also shown that a relatively small quantity of the hormone, sufficient to induce estrus if acting at regular intervals, is enough to accomplish the carcinomatous transformation of normal mammary gland tissue in that number of individuals which accords with the degree of the hereditary tendency of the family or strain to which they belong. From these investigations it seemed probable that in males mammary gland cancer appears only exceptionally because here the amount of available estrin remains below the threshold. During this period, therefore, the first attempts were made to produce mammary gland carcinoma in male mice (1) by means of transplantation of ovaries into castrated males, and towards the end of this period Murray (2), who also used this method, succeeded in a number of cases.
A Grazing Incidence Extreme Ultraviolet Spectrometer For Use With A Diverging Beam

Attention is given to the 100-350 A performance of a grazing incidence spectrometer configuration that accepts a diverging beam for the conduct of moderate resolution spectroscopy. Assuming a focal ratio of 10 for the diverging beam, the first optic of the configuration is an off-axis ellipsoid that is used at grazing incidence to refocus the diverging beam and increase the focal ratio. A detailed study is made of the performance of a plane, straight-groove, variable-line-space grating; the aberrations are evaluated analytically and verified by geometrical ray tracing. System resolution is a function of telescope image quality. An optimum design is found by varying six parameters and maximizing the average resolution over the bandpass. The spectrometer can be located far from the optical axis, and fed by a small grazing incidence pick-off mirror.
A single parameter representation of hygroscopic growth and cloud condensation nucleus activity – Part 3: Including surfactant partitioning

Abstract. Atmospheric particles can serve as cloud condensation nuclei in the atmosphere. The presence of surface active compounds in the particle may affect the critical supersaturation that is required to activate a particle. Modelling surfactants in the context of Kohler theory, however, is difficult because surfactant enrichment at the surface implies that a stable radial concentration gradient must exist in the droplet. In this study, we introduce a hybrid model that accounts for partitioning between the bulk and surface phases in the context of single parameter representations of cloud condensation nucleus activity. The presented formulation incorporates analytical approximations of surfactant partitioning to yield a set of equations that maintain the conceptual and mathematical simplicity of the single parameter framework. The resulting set of equations allows users of the single parameter model to account for surfactant partitioning by applying minor modifications to already existing code.
Ostwald ripening in a system with a high volume fraction of coarsening phase

Experiments on the coarsening behavior of two-phase mixtures in a model Pb-Sn system are reported. This system fulfills most of the assumptions of theory and has the particular advantage that all the materials parameters necessary for a comparison between the experimentally measured and theoretically predicted coarsening kinetics are known. We have examined the coarsening of Sn-rich and Pb-rich solid phases in contact with eutectic liquid in the volume fraction solid range above approximately 0.6 where the development of a solid skeletal structure inhibits sedimentation. Particle intercept distributions are measured and found to be time independent when scaled by the average intercept. This invariance is interpreted as evidence that scale factor coarsening is present. The intercept distributions are in good agreement with the predictions of theory. Measurements of average intercept diameter as a function of time establish unambiguously that the coarsening follows the theoretically predictedt 1/3 kinetics. The coarsening rate constants are measured as a function of volume fraction solid and are found to exceed the values calculated from theory using the known thermophysical properties of the Pb-Sn system by factors ranging from approximately 2 to 5.
Ultrasonic output from the excised rat larynx

The source of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) produced by rats is thought to be within the larynx. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if the rat larynx is capable of producing ultrasounds with the full range of frequencies reported in vivo. Acoustic output of excised rat larynges with and without vocal fold constriction was measured. At biologically-reasonable airflow rates and pressures, only larynges with a constriction produced the full range of ultrasounds reported in vivo, providing support for the hypothesis that a constriction within the larynx is likely the source of rat USVs.
Tacrolimus and Mycophenolate Mofetil Provide Effective Immunosuppression in Rat Laryngeal Transplantation

Objectives/Hypothesis Tacrolimus is efficacious in several transplantation settings. Some studies have demonstrated improved results using combination therapy with mycophenolate mofetil. Our primary objective was to evaluate the efficacy and optimal dosing of tacrolimus in preventing rejection, using an established rat model of laryngeal transplantation. Further, the ability of mycophenolate to allow lower dosing of tacrolimus while achieving equivalent immunosuppression was investigated. Study Design A dosage efficacy study with 10 experimental arms was conducted. Methods Dosage groups were 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.6 mg/kg tacrolimus alone and 0.1 mg/kg tacrolimus combined with 15 mg/kg mycophenolate mofetil, 0.1 mg/kg tacrolimus combined with 30 mg/kg mycophenolate mofetil, 0.1 mg/kg tacrolimus combined with 40 mg/kg mycophenolate mofetil, 0.2 mg/kg tacrolimus combined with 15 mg/kg mycophenolate mofetil, 0.2 mg/kg tacrolimus combined with 30 mg/kg mycophenolate mofetil (30 d only), and 0.2 mg/kg tacrolimus combined with 40 mg/kg mycophenolate mofetil. Each group contained 8 to 10 rats. Grafts were harvested for histopathological analysis on day 15 or 30 after transplantation. Histopathological appearance of the graft was blindly graded according to an established scale. Dosage groups were compared on rejection score using Wilcoxon's rank sum test and the Jonckheere-Terpstra test for trend. Results There was a significant association between increasing dose of tacrolimus and decreasing rejection score at both 15 and 30 days (P <.001). In the groups treated with 0.1 mg/kg T, an increasing dose of mycophenolate was associated with lower rejection scores at both 15 and 30 days (P = .001). In the group treated with 0.2 mg/kg T, there was no evidence that the addition of mycophenolate resulted in lower rejection at 15 days. However, at 30 days, combination therapy with increasing doses of mycophenolate was associated with decreasing rejection score (P = .002). Conclusions Tacrolimus is an effective immunosuppressive agent for laryngeal transplantation. Mycophenolate mofetil allows lower doses of tacrolimus to be used while preserving graft viability in the early post-transplantation period.
Distribution of sample mean when observations are correlated

It i s well known that even if the sample observations are correlated and not normal, the sample mean is normal in 1arge samples. But how large is large? This question i s investigated in this paper. In particular , the relation between the rate of convergence and the correlation property of the observations i s explored. It i s observed that the correlation, in general, retards the rate of convergence.
Metabolism of α-naphthoflavone by rat, mouse, rabbit, and hamster liver microsomes

The metabolism of alpha-naphthoflavone (ANF) was studied in hepatic microsomes from rats, mice, rabbits, and hamsters, species in which ANF exerts its biological activities. The major metabolites produced by all species were ANF-5,6-oxide, ANF-6-phenol, and ANF-7,8-dihydrodiol. Minor metabolites produced by all species were ANF-5,6-dihydrodiol, ANF-7-phenol, and ANF-9-phenol. In general, the total rates of metabolism were similar within all species: 22-32 nmol ANF metabolized/15 min/mg protein. Mouse liver microsomes were approximately 1.7 to 2.9 times as active as the other species on a nanomole of cytochrome P-450 basis. The major sites of enzymatic oxidation were the 5,6 and 7,8 bonds of ANF where for all species, 49-71% and 15-46% of the total metabolism occurred, respectively.
The Effect of Profound Levels of Hypothermia (Below 14°C) on Canine Cerebral Metabolism

The goal of this study was to determine the temperature coefficient (Q10) for canine CMRO2 at temperatures below 14°C. Eight dogs were anesthetized with halothane for surgical preparation. The animals were placed on total cardiopulmonary bypass and CBF was measured by direct sagittal sinus outflow. Duplicate measurements were taken at 37, 13, and 7°C. The EEG became isoelectric at a temperature of 12.0 ± 0.8°C. The Q10 between 13 and 7°C was 2.19 ± 0.59. With rewarming to 37°C, cerebral metabolic variables returned to control levels. Brain biopsies taken at the end of the study yielded normal values for brain energy stores. We conclude that the Q10 for CMRO2 at temperatures between 7 and 37°C can be profoundly affected by the state of cerebral function as reflected by the EEG. In the absence of EEG activity, an expected Q10 value of 2.2 reflects only the direct effect of temperature on the rates of biologic reactions.
Multidimensional scaling and threshold graphs

Abstract A set of data has a Guttman scale if and only if a corresponding graph is a threshold graph. In this paper we relate the concepts of disjunctive and conjuctive Guttman scales, and biorder dimension to the threshold dimension of a graph. For those graphical properties that can be tested in polynomial time, the comparable Guttman scaling techniques can be performed in polynomial time. Fast algorithms are provided for computing a Guttman scale, and the conjunctive and disjunctive dimension of data with no 3-crowns. We define an extended Guttman scale to indicate strength of agreement, dominance, etc., and show that this, too, exists if and only if a particular graph is a threshold graph.
Score, rank, or evaluation: Does type of performance feedback make a difference?

Abstract Three kinds of information—a score, rank, or evaluation—were presented to subjects as feedback about their performance on a task measuring financial ability. The information was given under conditions where subjects anticipated working either alone or in a group on a similar ability-relevant task. As predicted, in the alone condition favorable evaluative information produced higher ability estimates than either scores or ranks. Only under conditions of expected group interaction did rank information produce ability estimates comparable to evaluative information. Subjects receiving raw scores generally made lower ability estimates than subjects receiving the other two types of information. The selection of riskier and more difficult future tasks was associated with higher ability evaluations. Relevance of these results to pupil evaluation in a school setting was discussed.
Improved hemostasis in hemophilia mice by means of an engineered factor Va mutant

Summary Background Factor (F)VIIa-based bypassing not always provides sufficient hemostasis in hemophilia. Objectives To investigate the potential of engineered activated factor V (FVa) variants as bypassing agents in hemophilia A. Methods Activity of FVa variants was studied in vitro using prothrombinase assays with purified components and in FV- and FVIII-deficient plasma using clotting and thrombin generation assays. In vivo bleed reduction after the tail clip was studied in hemophilia A mice. Results and conclusions FVa mutations included a disulfide bond connecting the A2 and A3 domains and ones that rendered FVa resistant to inactivation by activated protein C (APC). ‘superFVa,’ a combination of the A2-A3 disulfide (A2-SS-A3) to stabilize FVa and of APC-cleavage site mutations (Arg506/306/679Gln), had enhanced specific activity and complete APC resistance compared with wild-type FVa, FVLeiden(Arg506Gln), or FVaLeiden(A2-SS-A3). Furthermore, superFVa potently increased thrombin generation in vitro in FVIII-deficient plasma. In vivo, superFVa reduced bleeding in FVIII-deficient mice more effectively than wild-type FVa. Low-dose superFVa, but not wild-type FVa, decreased early blood loss during the first 10 min by more than two-fold compared with saline and provided bleed protection for the majority of mice, similar to treatments with FVIII. During the second 10 min after tail cut, superFVa at high dose, but not wild-type FVa, effectively reduced bleeding. These findings suggest that superFVa enhances not only clot formation but also clot stabilization. Thus, superFVa efficiently improved hemostasis in hemophilia in vitro and in vivo and may have potential therapeutic benefits as a novel bypassing agent in hemophilia.
Repeat Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection for Metastatic Testis Cancer

ABSTRACTPurpose: We report pathological results, perioperative complications and patient outcome in 21 men after repeat retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for metastatic testis cancer.Materials and Methods: We reviewed an institutional tumor registry at our cancer center and identified 417 patients who underwent retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testis cancer during a 21-year period. Of these 417 patients 21 underwent repeat retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. We reviewed preoperative patient characteristics, operative data and pathological findings from repeat lymphadenectomy, and determined patient disease status, morbidity and mortality after surgery.Results: We identified viable germ cell tumor in 5 patients (24%), teratoma in 14 (67%) and fibrosis or necrosis only in 5 (24%). Intraoperatively subadventitial dissection of the aorta occurred in 2 cases, which was severe enough in 1 to require an aortic graft. The most common postoperative complications were prolonged ileus or partial bowe...
The Molecular Basis for Recognition of CD1d/α-Galactosylceramide by a Human Non-Vα24 T Cell Receptor

CD1d-mediated presentation of glycolipid antigens to T cells is capable of initiating powerful immune responses that can have a beneficial impact on many diseases. Molecular analyses have recently detailed the lipid antigen recognition strategies utilized by the invariant Vα24-Jα18 TCR rearrangements of iNKT cells, which comprise a subset of the human CD1d-restricted T cell population. In contrast, little is known about how lipid antigens are recognized by functionally distinct CD1d-restricted T cells bearing different TCRα chain rearrangements. Here we present crystallographic and biophysical analyses of α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) recognition by a human CD1d-restricted TCR that utilizes a Vα3.1-Jα18 rearrangement and displays a more restricted specificity for α-linked glycolipids than that of iNKT TCRs. Despite having sequence divergence in the CDR1α and CDR2α loops, this TCR employs a convergent recognition strategy to engage CD1d/αGalCer, with a binding affinity (~2 µM) almost identical to that of an iNKT TCR used in this study. The CDR3α loop, similar in sequence to iNKT-TCRs, engages CD1d/αGalCer in a similar position as that seen with iNKT-TCRs, however fewer actual contacts are made. Instead, the CDR1α loop contributes important contacts to CD1d/αGalCer, with an emphasis on the 4′OH of the galactose headgroup. This is consistent with the inability of Vα24− T cells to respond to α-glucosylceramide, which differs from αGalCer in the position of the 4′OH. These data illustrate how fine specificity for a lipid containing α-linked galactose is achieved by a TCR structurally distinct from that of iNKT cells.
On Architecture Design, Congestion Notification, TCP Incast and Power Consumption in Data Centers

With rapid deployment of modern data center networks (DCNs), many problems with respect to DCN architecture, congestion notification, TCP Incast, and power consumption have been observed. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive survey of the most recent research activities in DCNs, with emphasis on the network architecture design, congestion notification algorithms, TCP Incast, and power consumption. We describe in detail the architecture of a typical modern DCN. Furthermore, we investigate the challenges of the typical tree-based hierarchical DCN architecture encountered today and the requirements for the optimal DCN architecture, and we classify the proposed DCN architectures into switch-centric topology and server-centric topology. A section is also devoted to describe some newly proposed DCN architectures. We present a brief overview of the TCP Incast problem along with previously proposed solutions. We also review the recent energy-efficient solutions to minimize the power consumption in DCNs. Finally, we outline possible future research topics in DCNs.
Thyroid Hormone Concentrations In Critically III Canine Intensive Care Patients

Summary Alterations in thyroid indices in critically ill dogs were studied retrospectively to determine the incidence of the euthyroid sick syndrome and to assess its prognostic relevance to survival. Sixty-seven dogs were classified as euthyroid bases on a TSH stimulation test. Forty-one of 67 (61%) of the euthyroid dogs had low baseline serum T4 concentrations (<1.5 ug/dl) and 38 of 67 (56%) of the euthyroid dogs had low baseline serum T3 concentrations (<75 ng/dl). There was no significant difference between either the baseline or the post-stimulation serum T4 concentrations when values of dogs that survived were compared with those that died. There was, however, a significant difference (P<0.05) between both the baseline and the post-stimulation values for T3 when survivors (100.3± 81 ng/dl, 143± 66 ng/dl) and non-survivors (64.2 ± 17.1 ng/dl, 96.6 ± 38.3 ng/dl) were compared. The euthyroid sick syndrome occurs commonly in critically ill dogs. Further, the extent of depression of serum concentrations of T3 may be correlated to mortality.
Bubble dynamics and spontaneous compactification

As a laboratory for studying dimensional reduction in inhomogeneous spacetimes, we consider several five-dimensional models in which a bubble of a spacetime with a small compact dimension is sewn to a spacetime with all five dimensions macroscopic. Obliging the five-dimensional metric to be well behaved at the domain boundary constrains the parameters of the composite spacetimes under study. Given a suitable potential, it is possible that the domain wall is created by the rapid variation of the size of the compact dimension. Then it is appropriate to reduce the five-dimensional theory to an effective four-dimensional theory in which the size of the compact dimension plays the role of a scalar field. It is the effective four-dimensional metric which must be well defined at the domain boundary. We discuss several models of this latter type including some in which there is no singular contribution to the effective energy-momentum tensor even at the domain boundary.
Magnetic Fields in Small Ferrite Bodies with Applications to Microwave Cavities Containing Such Bodies

The microwave magnetic field in a small ferrite sphere and thin circular cylinder is found in first approximation. In a circularly polarized exciting field the internal field is again circularly polarized. The ratio of the internal field to the exciting field is 3(?±?+2)-1 for the sphere and 2(?±?+1)-1 for the cylinder. When the exciting field is linearly polarized the internal field is elliptically polarized. The expressions derived are applied to the calculation of the detuning and change of Q of microwave resonators containing ferrite spheres, cylinders and discs. Conversely they provide a means for the calculation of the elements of the permeability tensor from the experimentally observable change in cavity characteristics. The ferromagnetic resonant frequencies calculated from the present formulas are in agreement with those obtained by Kittel by the use of demagnetizing factors.
Correspondence of document file structures to discipline structures

Abstract Online data bases might be more valuable to users if their structures more closely matched those of the disciplines represented by the data bases. To explore this concept, a structure for the field of tropical medicine was derived from the interrelationships of signs and symptoms of 37 tropical diseases. A similar structure was derived for the interrelationships of sign and symptom index terms applied to articles on these topical diseases in the MEDLINE data base. The poor correlation of the two structures led to the suggestion that rigorous indexing of articles with sign and symptom index terms or check tags would enhance the usefulness of the data base. Similar studies could be envisioned for other disciplines and data bases.
Improvements in whole muscle and myocellular function are limited with high-intensity resistance training in octogenarian women

Advanced sarcopenia is prevalent among octogenarian women; yet little is known about myocellular quality and plasticity in this cohort. The aim of this investigation was to examine single muscle fiber contractile function and whole muscle characteristics before and after 12 wk of high-intensity progressive resistance training (PRT) in very old (85 ± 1 yr) women (OW, n = 6). Young women [YW (21 ± 2 yr old), n = 9] were included as a control group. Whole muscle strength [1 repetition maximum (RM)] and size (CT scans) were assessed before and after PRT. Functional experiments (size, peak force, velocity, and power) were performed on vastus lateralis myosin heavy chain (MHC) I and IIa muscle fibers before and after PRT. With PRT, 1-RM strength increased (P < 0.05) in YW (36%) and OW (26%). Thigh muscle cross-sectional area increased (5%) in YW (P < 0.05), but thigh muscle did not hypertrophy in OW. Before PRT, there were no differences in single-fiber parameters between YW and OW. With PRT, MHC IIa fiber size (28%), peak force (31%), and power (28%) improved, but no changes were observed in MHC I fibers, in YW (P < 0.05). There were no improvements in MHC I or IIa single-fiber function in OW. These data show that the myocellular functional profile in OW is similar to that in YW but that OW have a blunted hypertrophic response to PRT at the whole muscle and myocellular level. The limited myocellular plasticity in OW with PRT contrasts with that in YW and previous PRT studies in elderly women only a decade younger. These data suggest that attempts to greatly enhance skeletal muscle mass and function should begin before 80 yr of age.
Automatic generation of system-level dynamic equations for mechatronic systems

Abstract This paper presents a novel methodology for deriving the dynamic equations of mechatronic systems from component models that are represented as linear graphs. This work is part of a larger research effort in composable simulation. In this framework, CAD models of system components are augmented with simulation models describing the component's dynamic behavior in different energy domains. By composable simulation we mean the ability to automatically generate system-level simulations through composition of individual component models. This paper focuses on the methodology to create the system-level dynamic equations from a high-level system description within CAD software. In this methodology, a mechatronic system is represented by a single system graph. This graph captures the interactions between all the components within and across energy domains—rigid-body mechanics, electrical, hydraulic, and signal domains. From the system graph, the system-level dynamic equations can be derived independently of the underlying energy domains. In the final step, we reduce and order the dynamic equations for efficient computation. The complete modeling process is illustrated with an example of a missile seeker.
Are Prophylactic Antibiotics Necessary for Anterior Nasal Packing in Epistaxis

Editor’s Note: Emergency physicians must often make decisions about patient management without clear-cut data of sufficient quality to support clinical guidelines or evidence-based reviews. Topics in the Best Available Evidence section must be relevant to emergency physicians, are formally peer reviewed, and must have a sufficient literature base to draw a reasonable conclusion but not such a large literature base that a traditional “evidence-based” review, meta-analysis, or systematic review can be performed.
Evolutionary effects of density-dependent selection in plants

The evolution of traits that affect genotypic responses to density regulated resources can be strongly affected by population dynamics in ways that are unpredictable from individual viability or reproduction potentials. Genotypes that are most efficient in utilizing energy may not always displace less efficient ones, and the evolution of energy allocation strategies may not always favour reproductive fitness because of their effects on destabilizing population growth rates. Furthermore, genetic polymorphisms in single loci that affect such traits can be maintained in populations with stable, periodic changes in population size and gene frequencies in the absence of heterozygote superiority. In fact, in the models investigated in this paper, the polymorphism is maintained, even in the absence of equilibrium genotypic frequencies.
Role of M mode echocardiography in congenital aortic stenosis

Abstract M mode ultrasonic recognition of a bicuspid aortic valve or congenttally stenotic aortic valve rests on detection of the following criteria: eccentricity index, increased leaflet thickness, multiple diastolic cusp lines and presence of a central systolic line. In this investigation, M mode ultrasonic tracings from 118 children were interpreted by evaluators who did not know the diagnosis. Twenty-eight records from children with aortic valve stenosis (25 with a bicuspid valve and 3 with a tricuspid valve), were intermixed with records of 90 children with a catheterization-proved normal aortic valve to determine how many criteria were present in each tracing. Additionally, tracings were reviewed for overall visual appearance of the criteria, without measurement, to attempt to identtty those with an abnormal aortic valve. Finally, all echoes were viewed simultaneously and ranked from the most normal in appearance to the most abnormal aortic valve image. Rankings were then compared with measured pressure gradients across the aortic valve. An eccentricity index value greater than 1.5, thought to be indicative of a bicuspid aortic valve, was found in 29 percent of patients with aortic stenosis and 20 percent of normal children. Mean eccentricity index values for the two groups were statistically similar. Increased leaflet thickness was not detected in any tracing. Multiple diastolic cusp lines were present in 64 percent of patients with aortic stenosis and 60 percent of normal children. None of these criteria were sensitive or selective for dlagnosing aortic stenosis from an M mode tracing of a given patient. On the basis of subjective visual appearance, 39 percent of tracings of patients with aortic stenosis were identified correctly. No useful correlation existed between the ranking an M mode tracing received for degree of valve normality or abnormality and the aortic pressure gradient. This investigation shows that M mode echocardiography of the aortic valve, despite prior recommendations to the contrary, has limited usefulness in diagnosing congenital aortic stenosis.
Bright light produces Fos-positive neurons in caudal trigeminal brainstem

Excessive discomfort after exposure to bright light often occurs after ocular injury and during headache. Although the trigeminal nerve is necessary for light-evoked discomfort, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon, often referred to generally as photophobia, are not well defined. Quantitative Fos-like immunoreactivity (Fos-LI) was used to determine the pattern of neuronal activation in the caudal brainstem after bright light stimulation and, secondly, whether a neurovascular mechanism within the eye contributes to this response. Under barbiturate anesthesia, male rats were exposed to low (1 x 10(4) lx) or high intensity (2 x 10(4) lx) light delivered from a thermal neutral source for 30 min (30 s ON, 30 s OFF) and allowed to survive for 90 min. Intensity-dependent increases in Fos-LI were seen in laminae I-II at the trigeminal caudalis/cervical cord junction region (Vc/C1) and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS). Fos-LI also increased at the trigeminal interpolaris/caudalis transition (Vi/Vc(vl)) and dorsal paratrigeminal (dPa5) regions independent of intensity. Intravitreal injection of norepinephrine greatly reduced light-evoked Fos-LI at the Vc/C1, dPa5 and NTS, but not at the Vi/Vc transition. Lidocaine applied to the ocular surface had no effect on Fos-LI produced in trigeminal brainstem regions. These results suggested that multiple regions of the caudal trigeminal brainstem complex integrate light-related sensory information. Fos-LI produced at the dPa5 and NTS, coupled with norepinephrine-induced inhibition, was consistent with the hypothesis that light-evoked activation of trigeminal brainstem neurons involves an intraocular neurovascular mechanism with little contribution from neurons that supply the ocular surface.
When is a Solution Politically Feasible? Maglev Rail and Intercity Traffic Congestion

More and more people are using planes, trains, and automobiles. Traffic congestion plagues both highways and airports, making travel between cities more problematic with the passage of time. Gridlock and winglock are becoming part of American life. High-tech solutions to congestion exist. One is the maglev train, which can reach speeds of up to 300 mph (486 kph). This article examines 2 periods in the last 30 years in which maglev was considered as a possible solution to transportation congestion. However, in both instances, the coupling was not made between problem and solution. It is argued that although technicalfeasibility and economics are crucial, a successful solution requires three political elements: affordability, acceptability, and accessibility. The failure of maglev is explained in terms of the requisite components of a successful solution.
Molecular approaches to analysis of X-linked immunodeficiencies.

Although the X-linked immunodeficiencies—X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (XSCID), Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS), X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome and X-linked hyper IgM syndrome—have been mapped to loci distributed throughout the X chromosome, they have several features in common that suggest that they might be members of a gene family: (i) all are maintained in the population at approximately the same gene frequency; (ii) expression of each defect is limited to the hematopoieticsy stem; (iii) atypical forms of each disorder have been described; and (iv) obligate carriers of these disorders are normal by all immunologic criteria. The failure of carriers of XLA, XSCID, and WAS to show signs of their gene defects can be explained by the preferential use of the normal, nonmutant X as the active X in the cell lineages affected by the gene defects. These three disorders also share an additional feature; in boys with XLAX, SCID, or WAS there is asynchronous exp...