cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Trouble with Triads

Both Dobereiner’s original atomic weight triads and the recent atomic number triads are critically evaluated and found to be neither necessary nor sufficient to determine the degree of relatedness among the chemical elements. Mendeleev’s revision of the triad concept to include both vertical and horizontal triads and to interpolate various properties rather than to determine chemical relatedness is also reviewed.
Ergothioneine: A Stress Vitamin with Anti-Aging, Vascular and Neuroprotective Roles?

Significance: Ergothioneine (ET) is an unusual sulfur containing amino acid derived from histidine, acquired predominantly from the diet. Its depletion is associated with deleterious consequences i...
Multicultural iteration: Swedish National Day as multiculturalism-in-practice

This paper examines the creation of ‘national day’ in Sweden in order to understand how such a holiday works to shape the Swedish nation's relationship with diversity. Analyzing parliamentary debates and press coverage, the author finds that official national day coverage tends to invest the nation with progressive and multicultural meanings, foregrounding immigrant voices. However, this multiculturalism is polysemic, vague and subject to contestation, both from far right ‘traditionalists’ seeking to ‘protect’ Swedishness from outside influences and cosmopolitans who see the nation as outdated and dangerous. The creation of a new national holiday can be seen as a ‘democratic iteration’ wherein democracy is restated and reinvested with meanings, and new lines of cleavage are drawn, and also as a ‘multicultural iteration’ where multiculturalism is invested with new meaning. Finally, the author argues that multiculturalism benefits from polysemy in that the concept can then adapt to changing circumstances, and, thus, survive.
DNA Electrochemistry Shows DNMT1 Methyltransferase Hyperactivity in Colorectal Tumors

DNMT1, the most abundant human methyltransferase, is responsible for translating the correct methylation pattern during DNA replication, and aberrant methylation by DNMT1 has been linked to tumorigenesis. We have developed a sensitive signal-on electrochemical assay for the measurement of DNMT1 activity in crude tissue lysates. We have further analyzed ten tumor sets and have found a direct correlation between DNMT1 hyperactivity and tumorous tissue. In the majority of samples analyzed, the tumorous tissue has significantly higher DNMT1 activity than the healthy adjacent tissue. No such correlation is observed in measurements of DNMT1 expression by qPCR, DNMT1 protein abundance by western blotting, or DNMT1 activity using a radiometric DNA labeling assay. DNMT1 hyperactivity can result from both protein overexpression and enzyme hyperactivity. DNMT1 activity measured electrochemically provides a direct measure of activity in cell lysates and, as a result, provides a sensitive and early indication of cancerous transformation.
The Oligomycin-sensitive Adenosine Diphosphate-Adenosine Triphosphate Exchange in an Inner Membrane Matrix Fraction of Rat Liver Mitochondria

Abstract In the absence of added Mg++, the inner membrane matrix fraction of rat liver mitochondria catalyzed an oligomycin-sensitive ADP-ATP exchange reaction but failed to catalyze significant transphosphorylations between the following substrate pairs: UDP-UTP, CDP-CTP, GDP-GTP, ADP-UTP, ADP-GTP, and ADP-ADP. The inner membrane matrix ADP-ATP exchange was inhibited by low concentrations of not only oligomycin, but also aurovertin, 2,4-dinitrophenol, sodium oleate, carbonylcyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone, atractyloside, p-chloromercuribenzoate, Ag+, Ca++, Sr++, and a salicylanilide-uncoupling agent. Phosphate in excess of 4.0 mm inhibited the ADP-ATP exchange, whereas lower concentrations of this anion were without effect. Large decreases of oligomycin-sensitive ADP-ATP exchange activity accompanied loss of acceptor control of respiration in the inner membrane matrix brought about by the following mild procedures: incubation at 37°, freezing and thawing, and titration with Mg++. Lubrol WX completely inhibited the oligomycin-sensitive exchange. In the absence of added Mg++, the inner membrane matrix also catalyzed an inorganic orthophosphate-ATP exchange reaction and oxidative phosphorylation at significantly high rates. Concentrations of atractyloside, oligomycin, and 2,4-dinitrophenol which maximally inhibited the ADP-ATP exchange also provided maximal inhibition of these activities. These findings strengthen the hypothesis that the oligomycin-sensitive ADP-ATP exchange is catalyzed by an enzyme system normally participating in oxidative phosphorylation. It is suggested that this enzyme system is most likely a highly ordered membrane complex containing, at the minimum, the mitochondrial ATPase, an oligomycin sensitivity-conferring factor, and a divalent cation.
Abstract 15660: Insulated Radiofrequency Ablation Catheter

Background: Radiofrequency RF ablation utilizes low-voltage to deliver high frequency electrical energy to myocardial tissue to create permanent lesions. RF delivery systems are rudimentary in design and deliver energy at 360 degrees from the tip surface allowing for dissipation of energy. We propose a design modification to current radiofrequency ablation catheters by insulating a portion of the ablation catheter tip, which improves efficiency of RF delivery and requires less RF power. Hypothesis: An insulated portion of the ablation catheter will concentrate the flow of energy toward the non-insulated side, increasing temperature and lesion size compared with a standard catheter. Methods: Three catheter tips were insulated using silicone based material to cover half their surfaces. These included a 4mm, 8mm, and an open-irrigated tip catheter. The insulated catheter was compared to its standard counterpart. Energy was delivered to myocardial tissue submerged in a saline bath heated to 37°C at 20 watts (W) for 60 seconds. Measurements of lesion depth and temperatures at 3mm and 5mm depth were compared between the catheter types. Results: At 20W, lesion depths were significantly larger for the insulated 4mm, 8 mm, and irrigated tip catheters, compared to their counterpart (Table). Peak temperatures at 3 and 5 mm depths were significantly higher for the insulated 4mm, 8 mm, and irrigated tip catheters, compared to their counterpart (Table). Conclusion: By insulating the tip of an RF ablation, efficiency of RF delivery is increased, with larger lesion sizes and higher temperatures. Lower powers can be used with insulated catheters to create lesion depths similar to those seen with standard catheters at higher power.
Duality and the Geometry of the Income and Substitution Effects

The geometry of the Hicks-Slutsky income and substitution effect is framed in terms of the consumers expenditure function and expenditure equation and thus can be studied with-out resorting to the indifference map of a direct utility function.
MeV energy ion implantation and its device applications in InP

MeV energy Si, S, Be, B, Fe, and Co implantations were performed in the energy range 0.4-20 MeV to obtain buried/thick n- or p- or high-resistance layers in InP. The first four range statistics have been established for these dopants in this energy range. Optimum annealing conditions have been established. Electron concentrations as high as 2 /spl times/ 10/sup 18/ cm/sup -3/ have been obtained. B, Fe, and Co implantations gave high resistivity layers. The usefulness of MeV implantation was demonstrated in the fabrication of vertical positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN) and varactor diodes. >
Review: Breeding common bean for resistance to insect pests and nematodes

Singh, S. P. and Schwartz, H. F. 2011. Review: Breeding common bean for resistance to insect pests and nematodes. Can. J. Plant Sci. 91: 239–250. Various insect pests and nematodes cause severe losses (35–100%) globally to the yield and quality of dry and green common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). The objectives of this review are to briefly describe major insect pests and nematodes in the Americas, breeding strategies and methods used, and research progress achieved. We also describe integrated genetic improvement for resistance to multiple insect pests and nematodes and cultivar development. Breeding for resistance to one insect pest or nematode at a time has been practiced in most instances. Backcross, pedigree, and bulk-pedigree breeding methods have been used. Considerable progress has been made in genetics and germplasm enhancement for resistance to bean pod weevil (Apion godmani Wagner), tropical bruchid (Zabrotes subfasciatus Boheman), leafhoppers (Empoasca kraemeri Ross and Moore), and root- knot...
Abstract 13: The PCI Choice Decision Aid for Stable Angina: A Randomized Trial.

Background: Although percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not been shown to reduce the risk of death and myocardial infarction (MI) for stable coronary artery disease (CAD), many patients believe that PCI is a life-saving procedure. PCI for stable CAD is known to improve patients’ quality of life more rapidly than medications alone. We conducted a randomized trial to assess the impact of a decision aid (DA) compared to usual care (UC) for the treatment of stable CAD when there is a choice between PCI and optimal medical therapy (OMT). Methods: The PCI Choice trial was a prospective, randomized trial comparing the effects of DA versus UC. The DA was designed with a user-centered approach for an in-visit consultation, involving patients and clinicians throughout the development process. The final DA included information on myocardial infarction (MI), death and quality of life outcomes for PCI with OMT vs. OMT alone in the treatment of stable angina, stratified by angina type. Risks of procedure, bleeding, stent thrombosis, and need for future procedures were also depicted. The primary outcome was patient knowledge, measured by pre- and post-visit surveys. Additional outcomes included decisional conflict, patient satisfaction, preferred decision making style, and treatment decision. Results: A total of 110 patients were enrolled; mean age was 68.3 years and 26% of patients were women. At baseline, most patients had CCS Class I/II angina and were on a mean of two anti-anginal medications (2.3, SD 1.2). Knowledge increased among patients receiving DA compared to UC (63% vs. 44% p=0.0003). Specific knowledge about the impact of PCI for stable angina on death and MI was higher in both groups compared to prior studies (54% DA, 46% UC, p=0.45; 12% prior). Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the DA group vs. UC (72% vs 40%, p=0.004). Decisional conflict was greater than in non-procedural DA trials, and was not different between the two arms (p=.43). Following exposure to DA, patients’ preference for sharing decision making tended to change more with DA (55% to 65%) than with UC (56% to 59%). While the proportion of patients choosing PCI over OMT was nearly half in both groups, there were fewer patients that remained undecided with DA (18% vs. 4%; p=0.14 overall difference). Conclusions: Exposure to a DA for the choice of PCI vs. optimal medical therapy in stable CAD improved patient knowledge and satisfaction and decreased uncertainty, without reducing the rate of PCI. Use of the DA in a larger patient population may further delineate impact on outcomes such as treatment choice, geographic variation and cost.
Progressive increase in ice loss from Greenland

[1] Laser altimeter measurements over Greenland show increasing thickening rates above 2000 m, reflecting increasing snowfall in a warming climate. But near-coastal thinning rates have increased substantially since the mid 1990s, and net mass loss more than doubled from an average of 4–50 Gt yr−1 between 1993/4 and 1998/9 to 57–105 Gt yr−1 between 1998/9 and 2004. This increasing trend is very similar to findings from independent mass-budget studies, but differs widely from ERS radar altimeter results. This may result from limitations associated with the large ERS footprint over sloping and undulating surfaces that typify fast, narrow glaciers where thinning is most pronounced.
Evaluation of a multicomponent intervention package to increase summer work experiences for transition-age youth with severe disabilities

Early work experiences have been advocated as an important avenue for equipping youth with disabilities with the skills, attitudes, opportunities, and aspirations needed to transition successfully ...
Group goals and group performance

Many studies show that groups can be used to improve group performance, but a comprehensive explanation for this effect has not been proposed. In this paper, we discuss the social and psychological processes and behavioural responses believed to produce the group goal effect. Actions that managers can take to facilitate the effect are also described.
Impact of breast cancer on anti-mullerian hormone levels in young women

Young women with breast cancer face treatments that impair ovarian function, but it is not known if malignancy itself impacts ovarian reserve. As more breast cancer patients consider future fertility, it is important to determine if ovarian reserve is impacted by cancer, prior to any therapeutic intervention. A cross-sectional study was conducted comparing if ovarian reserve, as measured by anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and inhibin B (inhB), differed between 108 women with newly diagnosed breast cancer and 99 healthy women without breast cancer. Breast cancer participants were ages 28-44 and were recruited from two clinical breast programs. Healthy women ages 30-44 without a history of infertility were recruited from gynecology clinics and the community. The median age (interquartile range) was 40.2(5.5) years for breast cancer participants and 33.0(4.6) years for healthy controls. The unadjusted geometric mean AMH levels (SD) for breast cancer participants and controls were 0.66(3.6) and 1.1(2.9) ng/mL, respectively. Adjusting for age, body mass index, gravidity, race, menstrual pattern, and smoking, mean AMH levels were not significantly different between breast cancer participants and healthy controls (0.85 vs. 0.76 ng/mL, p = 0.60). FSH and inhB levels did not differ by breast cancer status. In exploratory analysis, the association between AMH and breast cancer status differed by age (p-interaction = 0.02). AMH may be lower with breast cancer status in women older than 37. In younger women, AMH levels did not differ significantly by breast cancer status. Among the youngest of breast cancer patients, ovarian reserve as measured by AMH, FSH, and inhibin B did not differ significantly from healthy women of similar age. In older breast cancer patients, ovarian reserve may be adversely impacted by cancer status. These findings support the potential success and need for fertility preservation strategies prior to institution of cancer treatment.
The interactive effects of self-perceptions and job requirements on creative problem solving

Over the years, researchers have focused on ways to facilitate creativity in the workplace by looking at individual factors and organizational factors that affect employee creativity (Woodman, Sawyer, & Griffin, 1993). In many cases, the factors that affect creativity are examined independently. In other words, it is uncommon for researchers to look at the interaction among individual and organizational factors. In this study, it is argued that to get a true understanding of how to maximize creativity in the workplace, organizational researchers must look at the interaction between organizational factors and individual factors that affect employee creativity. More specifically, the current study looked at an individual's perceptions about his or her ability to be creative (i.e., individual factor) and perceptions of requirements for creativity in the workplace (i.e., an organizational factor). The results indicated that individuals who have a high belief about their ability to be creative (an individual factor) were most creative when they also perceived requirements for creativity in the workplace (an organizational factor). Furthermore, individuals who had low perceptions of creative ability were still able to perform creatively when they had high perceptions of requirements for creativity. This suggests that, to maximize creativity, organizations should focus on both individual and organizational factors that affect employee creativity.
Complete Endoscopic Closure of Gastrotomy After Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery Using the NDO Plicator

Background The NDO Plicator is a device developed for endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by approximation of tissues together with a double-pledgeted U-stitch. It was theorized that this device may facilitate transgastric natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) because closure of the transgastric defect remains a key component for advancement of this new technology.
INFORMATION-THEORETIC CHARACTERIZATION OF QUANTUM CHAOS

Hypersensitivity to perturbation is a criterion for chaos based on the question of how much information about a perturbing environment is needed to keep the entropy of a Hamiltonian system from increasing. We demonstrate numerically that hypersensitivity to perturbation is present in the following quantum maps: the quantum kicked top, the quantum baker's map, the quantum lazy baker's map, and the quantum sawtooth and cat maps.
The crystal structure of calcium succinate monohydrate

The crystal structure of calcium succinate monohydrate, Ca(C4H4O4)·H2O, has been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystals are monoclinic witha=11.952(2),b=9.691(2),c=11.606(2)A, β=108.81(1)°, space group C2/c,Z=8,V=1272.49 A3,dm=1.80, anddc=1.818 Mg m−3. The structure was refined by full-matrix least-squares techniques toR=0.027,Rw=0.040, for 829 reflections with1≥3δ(I). Ca is coordinated to seven oxygen atoms, and the coordination polyhedron is best described as a pentagonal bipyramid. One carboxylate group in the succinate ion is bonded to three different Ca ions, forming a four-membered chelate ring with one Ca ion is bonded to three different Ca ions, forming a four-membered chelate ring with one Ca ion and unidentate bridge bonds to two other Ca ions. The other carboxylate group is bonded to two Ca ions through unidentate bonds. The structure is highly polymeric. The general structural features are nearly identical to those of calcium adipate monohydrate.
Some Aspects of Midlevel Vortex Interaction in Tropical Cyclogenesis

The mechanisms by which mesoscale midlevel vortices that form in the stratiform anvil regions of mesoscale convective systems develop downward in the atmosphere are explored in the context of tropical cyclone genesis. Using simple two- and three-dimensional models, a theory for the processes by which midlevel vortices may interact both with each other, and with their large-scale environment in order to develop a storm-scale vortex, is developed. It is found that absorption of the circulation of one vortex by another results in a vortex of greater horizontal and vertical extent. Embedding the vortices in an enhanced vorticity environment such as might be found in the monsoon trough results in more efficient merger and greater downward development of the circulation associated with the merged vortex.
Innovative Coastal Research in Qatar: Improving Geological and Reservoir Modeling

Maximizing recovery in oil and gas fields relies on geological models that realistically portray the spatial complexity, composition, and properties of reservoir units. Present day arid climate coastal systems, like the coastline of Qatar provide analogues for depositional and diagenetic processes that control reservoir quality in ancient reservoirs. Many major reservoirs in Qatar and the Middle East formed under conditions that are remarkably similar to those shaping the Qatari coastlines of today. Major controls on coastal sedimentation patterns are: 1) coastline orientation, 2) wind, wave and tidal energy, 3) climate, 4) relative sea level, 5) depositional relief, and 6) sediment sources. Strong NW prevailing winds (Shamal winds) drive shallow marine circulation patterns, creating four very distinct depositional profiles: windward, leeward, oblique, and protected. Windward coastlines are marked by reef development and intertidal sheet and beach sands. The leeward coast profile is dominated by an eolian sediment supply, as sand dunes are blown into the sea. Along windward and oblique coastlines, shoreface hardgrounds stabilize circulation patterns, creating mud-prone areas of stromatolites and mangroves. Protected coastlines are characterized by finer-grained peneroplid sands and low-relief beaches. Grain size, composition, and dimensions of coastal sands vary due to wave energy. Coastal deposits are equally affected by high-frequency oscillations in sea level. Approximately 6,000 years ago, sea level was about 2 to 4 meters higher than it is currently and the Qatari coastline was up to 10km inland. Most coastal deposits and sabkhas are relicts of this ancient highstand in sea level. Punctuated sea-level drops to present day level have led to the formation of seaward-stepping beach spit systems. Sedimentation patterns and their diagenetic overprint were studied in detail at the coastal sabkha of Mesaieed, which represents an oblique coastal system relatively to the predominant wind direction. Detailed field mapping, radiocarbon age dating analyses, and the integration of geotechnical borehole data, as well as data from numerous shallow pits allowed reconstructing the thickness of the Holocene, the dating and spatial reconstruction of the progradational pattern of the beach spits relative to the varying sea level, and the mapping of the amount and distribution of porosity destroying gypsum. The observed spatial complexity and heterogeneity of modern coastal systems are important aspects to be considered for conditioning three-dimensional geological models. Modern depositional systems along the Qatar coastline, like the one studied at the Mesaieed sabkha, are particularly useful as analogs for conditioning subsurface data sets in geologic (static) and reservoir (dynamic) models.
Mechanisms controlling differential promoter-occupancy by the yeast forkhead proteins Fkh1p and Fkh2p: implications for regulating the cell cycle and differentiation

The roles of DNA and Mcm1p interactions in determining the overlapping and distinct functions of the yeast cell cycle regulatory transcription factors Fkh1p and Fkh2p were examined. Full-length recombinant Fkh1p and Fkh2p were purified and their binding to bona fide promoters examined in vitro. Each protein bound a variety of target promoters with similar specificity in vitro, consistent with the observation that these proteins bind common promoters in vivo. However, in vivo, the Fkh1p and Fkh2p occupied different target promoters to different extents, suggesting that each was primarily responsible for controlling a different set of genes. Additional in vitro studies provided a mechanistic explanation for this differential promoter-occupancy. Specifically, the Fkh2p, but not the Fkh1p, was capable of binding cooperatively with Mcm1p. The Mcm1p-Fkh2p cooperative binding was enhanced by, but did not require, the presence of a Mcm1p-binding site within a target promoter. Consistent with these data, Mcm1p was present at Fkh-controlled promoters in vivo regardless of whether they contained Mcm1p-binding sites, suggesting a role for Mcm1p at promoters not thought previously to be under Mcm1p control. Analysis of Fkh1p and Fkh2p binding to promoter targets in vivo by use of mutant strains indicated that the two proteins compete for promoter-occupancy at a number of target promoters. We postulate that Fkh1p and a stable Fkh2p/Mcm1p complex compete for binding to target promoters and that the levels and/or binding activity of Fkh1p, but not Fkh2p, are most limiting for promoter-occupancy in vivo. Interestingly, the in vitro DNA-binding assays, using a variety of promoter targets, revealed that bona fide Fkh target promoters contained two or more Fkh-binding sites that allowed the Fkh1p and Fkh2p proteins to form multiple protein-DNA complexes in vitro. Multiple Fkh-binding sites may be a distinguishing feature of bona fide Fkh promoters in yeast and other organisms.
Effect of dietary corn, coconut, and menhaden oils on lipoprotein, liver, and heart membrane composition in the hypercholesterolemic rabbit

Abstract The relative capacities of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid-containing diets (PUFA) to modify chemical composition in plasma lipoproteins, liver membrane, and heart phospholipids and to thereby modulate lipoprotein and membrane fluidity were studied in the rabbit. Stock diet-fed New Zealand rabbits were made hypercholesterolemic by feeding a casein-based, semi-purified diet containing coconut oil. Subsequent replacement of the coconut oil with corn or menhaden oil caused reduction or elevation, respectively, of blood cholesterol levels. Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) became progressively less fluid following transfer from the PUFA containing low fat stock diet to the coconut oil diet. Subsequent corn oil feeding induced significant increases in VLDL and LDL, but not HDL, fluidities. Menhaden oil feeding did not affect lipoprotein fluidity. Liver membranes were less fluid in corn oil-fed and menhaden oil-fed than in coconut oil-fed rabbits. Despite these differences in lipoprotein and membrane fluidity the amount of rabbit 125I-LDL capable of binding to liver membranes from the animals was not affected by the dietary fat modifications. Fatty acyl compositions were affected by the diets. Heart and liver phospholipids showed extensive incorporation of n-3 fatty acids and deletion of linoleate in the menhaden oil-fed animals. Dietary effects on lipoprotein phospholipid fatty acids were statistically significant but not as pronounced as in these tissues.
Lysosomal enzymes in aquatic species. IV. Distribution and particle properties of muscle lysosomes of the lobster, Homarus americanus.

Abstract 1. 1. Cathepsin D and aryl sulphatase enzyme activities were compared from skeletal muscle homogenates of tail and cheliped closer muscles. 2. 2. Tail muscle homogenates demonstrated latent acid hydrolytic enzyme activities. 3. 3. Fractionation of total homogenates by differential centrifugation and post-nuclear extracts by isopycnic-zonal centrifugation demonstrates the presence of lysosomes which can be partially separated from mitochondria.
Hypnotically-induced deconditioning: reconstruction of memories in the treatment of phobias.

Abstract A new technique using reconstruction of memory was developed for the treatment of phobic clients. Clients are hypnotized and age-regressed back to the original traumatic event. Through hypnotic guided imagery/fantasy, their memories are then replaced with constructed memories of neutral or positive events. The technique is illustrated in three clients in whom severe phobic reactions were successfully eliminated or reduced in one or a few sessions.
Change in Rind, Flesh, and Juice Color of Blood Oranges Stored in Air Supplemented with Ethylene or in Oxygen‐Enriched Atmospheres

Ruby, Tarocco, and Sanguinello blood oranges were stored 4 wk at 15°C in flowing air, 20 ppm ethylene in air, 40% O2+ 60% N2, or 80% O2+ 20% N2, followed by storage in air. Ethylene caused rind color of Ruby and Tarocco oranges to become deeper orange while 80% O2 caused rind of Ruby and Sanguinello oranges to be paler orange than when stored in other atmospheres. Ethylene deepened red color of the flesh and juice of Ruby and Tarocco oranges, but high O2 more intensely deepened the red color of flesh and juice of all three cultivars. Total soluble solids content, total acidity, or pH of the juice was not affected. Fruit stored in the ethylene atmosphere developed off-flavor.
Water and sediment transport of channel-flat systems in a mesotidal mudflat: Willapa Bay, Washington

Abstract The muddy tidal flats of southern Willapa Bay, Washington are tidally dominated and receive little direct freshwater input. We use data from instruments deployed in channels of different size and on their adjacent flats to investigate the hydrodynamics and sediment dynamics of each morphological setting under a range of seasonal and meteorological conditions, including rain and wind events. Interaction between the morphology of the channel/flat complex and tidal water-level variations produces well-defined velocity pulses during both flooding and ebbing tides. These pulses represent about 27% of the total along-channel water transport and 35% of the suspended-sediment transport of the system. Maintenance of continuity produces the velocity pulse, and pulse magnitude is determined by tidal range. Wind alters the flow regime in channels and on the flat, enhancing over-flat ebb flow in this study location while decreasing ebb-pulse intensity. Wind speed was positively correlated with minimum suspended-sediment concentration. Precipitation falling directly on flats was found to erode flat sediment, which subsequently formed a temporary deposit in the adjacent channel. Residual along-channel water transport in channels and on nearby flats was flood dominant under all seasonal conditions sampled, and sediment flux was flood dominant during winter and spring deployments.
Ease of donning surgical gloves: An important consideration in glove selection

It is a commonly held belief among physicians that powder free surgical gloves are more difficult to don than cornstarch powdered gloves. This difficulty is supposedly enhanced when the physician's hands are wet, a situation commonly encountered when regloving during surgical procedures. This investigation dispels these beliefs by demonstrating that the forces required to don powder free gloves do not differ significantly from those required to don gloves coated in cornstarch lubricant. Moreover, Biogel, a new powder free glove with an inner hydrogel lining, is shown to don easily and safely without ripping, even with wet hands, a circumstance not encountered with other gloves.
A double ϵ-expansion for planar models with two phase transitions

Abstract The two-dimensional planar model in the presence of either constant or random symmetry-breaking fields, which locally select p preferred directions, undergoes two phase transitions for certain values of p . A systematic renormalization of the sine-Gordon field theory describing these systems is carried out using a double expansion in the deviation from the upper critical temperature and in the temperature difference between the two transitions. A complete description is obtained of the phase diagram for threefold symmetric random field.
Fenofibrate-Induced Elevation in Serum Creatinine

Fenofibrate, a fibric acid derivative, is used as adjunctive therapy with diet for treatment of hyperlipidemia. Side effects include gastrointestinal complaints and, rarely, elevations in liver function tests. According to the drug's package insert, elevations in serum creatinine may occur; although, no postmarketing case reports of fenofibrate-induced elevations in serum creatinine are on file with the manufacturer. Fenofibrate was the probable cause of elevations in serum creatinine concentrations in six patients at our clinic. As the implications of these elevations may be serious, routine serum creatinine monitoring is recommended at baseline and 1-2 months after starting fenofibrate.
Laser shock wave treatment of polycrystalline diamond tool and nanodiamond powder compact

Laser shock processing (LSP) of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tools and nanodiamond powder compacts was conducted using a 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at peak power densities in the range of 4 to 18 GW/cm2 and pulse repetition rates of 1 to 10 Hz. The PCD tools were directly procured from the tool manufacturer while nanodiamond powder compacts were prepared in the laboratory by cold die press forming and annealing using a powder mixture of nanodiamond, 8 wt.% cobalt, and 10 wt.% agar–agar as the binder. The samples were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, micro-indentation, and optical profilometer. Results indicate that LSP induced diamond purification, inhomogeneity of phases in PCD, densification in nanodiamond compact, phase transition to various amounts of sp3 and sp2 carbon forms, and an increase in hardness and surface roughness.
Albertona balkanica from Early Miocene of Snegotin (Serbia) – implications for the distribution and evolution of Miocene Ochotonidae

Abstract Remains of Albertona balkanica from the Early Miocene clays of eastern Serbia have shifted the range boundary of this species in direction of Central Europe. The peculiarities in tooth morphology were used for comparison and defining of the possible evolutionary connection with other representatives of fossil Ochotonidae . Due to the similarity with fauna of Aliveri in Greece, the association of small mammals of Snegotin (which includes Albertona ) was included in the MN4 zone.
Becoming Southern : The jews of Savannah, Georgia, 1830-70

L'A. etudie l'emigration juive du Nord vers le Sud de l'Amerique du Nord entre 1830 et 1870. A cette fin, il focalise son attention sur la communaute juive de Savannah en Georgie. C'est le probleme plus large du Sudisme qui se pose ici, et de ses consequences dans la Guerre de Secession. Il s'agit d'evaluer l'implication des juifs dans cet antagonisme
Reliability, maintainability and cost-effectiveness: A bibliographical note

Abstract In a system, the level of performance is highly dependent on the reliability and maintenance, which are in turn constrained by the cost. In this note, a short overview on reliability and maintainability is given, and the influence of system cost is outlined. Finally, a list of books on reliability and maintainability is complied.
Postnatal Change in Inhibitory Regulation of Intestinal Motor Activity in Human and Canine Neonates

Motor activity was recorded in 19 preterm infants three times during the first postnatal month. There was a paucity of small intestinal motor quiescence during fasting in the first postnatal week; however, its duration significantly increased with postnatal age (p < 0.03). Although fasting motor patterns changed with postnatal age, motor responses to feeding were present within the first few days of life. Motor activity was also recorded weekly in 11 newborn dogs for 6 wk. Intestinal motor quiescence was also absent during fasting for the first postnatal week but it significantly increased with postnatal age (p < 0.002). As in the human preterm infant, a motor response to feeding was present within the first few days of life. Plasma concentrations of gastrin and peptide YY during fasting were low in the preterm human and canine neonate during the first postnatal week but plasma concentrations of both peptides increased with postnatal age. Although plasma concentrations of gastrin were low during fasting for the first postnatal week, plasma concentrations of gastrin increased significantly postprandially compared with fasting (p < 0.05). We conclude that motor quiescence during fasting becomes a more prominent feature of newborn intestinal motor function postnatally. In addition the release of two peptides that regulate motor patterns also change postnatally. Thus, postnatal changes in motor patterns and peptide release change in a parallel fashion in human preterm neonates and canine neonates.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Rat femoral vein‐to‐vein grafts as a microvascular practice model: Factors that influence patency

The rat femoral vein has become a standard model for microvascular anastomosis practice as well as for research investigations into various manipulative influences upon venous patency. Although vein grafts to the rat artery are the focus of many experimental studies, few reports have investigated vein-to-vein grafts. This study examines the short-term patency (1-3 days) of vein grafts interpositioned to the rat femoral vein. Several factors are studied for their ability to alter the patency rate. The results indicate that patency is difficult to achieve following the creation of a second serial anastomosis (construction of a vein-to-vein graft). Systemic heparin consistently improves patency rates, and trends toward increased patency are seen for reduction in longitudinal tension of the repaired vessel. It is also implied that a deeper understanding of venous hemodynamics and thrombotic events may lead to improved methodologies in the clinical applications of microvenous repairs. These results indicate that rat vein-to-vein grafts may provide a challenging microvascular training model, while introducing the novice microsurgeon to some of the complicating factors encountered with microvascular grafting.
On the collision kernels for gas mixtures

Abstract Integral representations of the linearized Boltzmann equation facilitate the direct analysis of and numerical studies of gas flows, and have been available for both simple gases and dilute gases since the work of Hilbert (1912) and Enskog (1917). Williams (1976) reported general representations associated with mixtures of arbitrary composition using integrations on delta functions. An alternate derivation of these representations is given here and the results agree fully with those of Williams. The derivation of these representations involves a considerable increase in difficulty over the related results for simple gases and dilute gases regardless of the method used. The agreement between these two independent derivations is important because the representations that are obtained are critical to the continuing development of the theory for gas mixtures and for obtaining numerical solutions to specific problems.
Analytical modeling of PWAS in-plane and out-of-plane electromechanical impedance spectroscopy (EMIS)

This paper discusses theoretical analysis of electro-mechanical impedance spectroscopy (EMIS) of piezoelectric wafer active sensor (PWAS). Both free and constrained PWAS EMIS models are developed for in-plane (lengthwise) and outof plane (thickness wise) mode. The paper starts with the general piezoelectric constitutive equations that express the linear relation between stress, strain, electric field and electric displacement. This is followed by the PWAS EMIS models with two assumptions: 1) constant electric displacement in thickness direction (D3) for out-of-plane mode; 2) constant electric field in thickness direction (E3) for in-plane mode. The effects of these assumptions on the free PWAS in-plane and out-of-plane EMIS models are studied and compared. The effects of internal damping of PWAS are considered in the analytical EMIS models. The analytical EMIS models are verified by Coupled Field Finite Element Method (CF-FEM) simulations and by experimental measurements. The extent of the agreement between the analytical and experimental EMIS results is discussed. The paper ends with summary, conclusions, and suggestions for future work.
A Strong Inference Approach to Causal Factors in Foreign Language Learning: A Response to MacIntyre

MacIntyre (1995, p. 90) takes the position that language anxiety plays a significant causal role in creating individual differences in foreign language (FL) learning. He suggests that our Linguistic Coding Differences Hypothesis (LCDH), which posits that language aptitude is the pTImary source of individual differences in FL achievement, reduces affective vaTIables to a position "devoid of explanatory power." Our response defends our position that language aptitude is likely to account for the largest part of the vaTIance in FL learning. We also descTIbe ways in which affective vaTIables can influence FL learning, although the instances in which they play a causal role is likely to be small. We also suggest that both methodological and conceptual difficulties exist with theoTIes that attTIbute affective and social context vaTIables in FL learning to causal factors. We then propose ways in which MacIntyre and others could counter our argument and posit that a "Strong Inference" approach to research on the vaTIables affecting FL learning would be beneficial to the FL field.
New detector concept for x-ray imaging using edge-on illuminated porous plates

Scanning X-ray imaging systems provide significant reduction in the detected scatter radiation, cover large areas, and potentially offer high spatial resolution. Applications of one dimensional (1D) gaseous detectors and 'edge-on' illuminated silicon strip detectors for scanning slit imaging systems are currently under intensive investigation. In this work we investigate an 'edge-on' illuminated Porous Plate (PP) detector concept for applications in diagnostic X-ray imaging. As opposed to the existing X-ray imaging detectors, 'edge-on' PP detectors can provide a combination of high stopping power, high physical charge amplification, superior spatial resolution and flexible pixel shape. One common type of PP is Microchannel Plate (MCP). It has previously been investigated as a detector in surface-on illumination mode for medical X-ray imaging. However, its detection efficiency was determined to be too low for medical imaging applications. Using 'edge-on' illumination mode for MCPs with optimized structural parameters, it is possible to reach high detection efficiency. The characteristics of 'edge-on' MCP detectors are compared with the currently available X-ray imaging detectors. Possible use of other PP materials such as Porous Dielectrics, Microspheric Plates, a-Si based MCPs, Micro columnar and Micro granular Dielectrics are discussed. An 'edge-on' illuminated MCP detector for scanning X-ray imaging system is being developed in our laboratory. The details of this system and the read out electronics will be described.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Micro-array development for cell secretion studies

We are focusing on the development of a biochip which will enable massively parallel amperometric measurements on single cells for exocytosis studies. Initial prototypes have been fabricated with picoliter-sized wells which roughly conform to the shape of the cells. The electrochemical measurement using the prototype devices can capture a large fraction, approximately 80%, of the catecholamine release with millisecond temporal resolution. With this prototype device, cells must be manually positioned into the micro-wells by a micromanipulator. Therefore, two new designs incorporating three dimensional microfluidic structures have been developed for automatic cell positioning. One design is based on thin silicon diaphragms with picoliter-sized well arrays, while another has 1μm silicon nitride membranes. Both designs have through-membrane holes and are designed in such a way that the cells will be automatically positioned onto electrodes once a suitable pressure differential is applied between the two sides of the thin diaphragms. Details of the microfabrication process for both designs will be presented in this paper as well as results of automatic cell positioning tests.
Gas-phase reactivity of HS2H+· and S2+·: an investigation of the gas basicity and proton affinity of HS2·

Abstract The reactions of HS2H+· with the series of reference bases: H2S, CH2O, C3H3F3O (1,1,1-trifluoropropanone), C2H5I, C6H4F2 (o-difluorobenzene), HCO2H, C4H8 (trans-2-butene), c-C3H6, n-C3H6, CH3OH, CH3SH, and C2H5OH, with proton affinities ranging from 168.5–185.6 kcal/mol, have been investigated with a selected ion flow tube (SIFT) to bracket the gas basicity (GB) and proton affinity (PA) of the hydrothiosulfeno radical (HS2·). The recently developed thermokinetic method of Bouchoux et al. [Int. J. Mass Spectrom. Ion Processes 153 (1996) 37] applied to the data gives GB(HS2·) = 169.8 ± 2.2 kcal/mol and PA(HS2·) = 178.0 ± 2.4 kcal/mol, consistent with but more accurate than the simple bracketing procedure. The proton affinity is used to calculate the enthalpy of formation of HS2·, giving ΔHf○298(HS2·) = 25.0 ± 2.5 kcal/mol; this result is compared with the relatively few other reported determinations of this quantity. The HS2· radical is of potential importance to chemical processes in interstellar clouds (ISC), as well as to fuel refinery and atmospheric chemistry. The HS2H+· reactions and a parallel study of the reactions of S2+· are discussed.
Promotion effects of air and H2 nonthermal plasmas on TiO2 supported pd and Pd-Ag catalysts for selective hydrogenation of acetylene

Selective hydrogenation of acetylene in rich ethylene was investigated over uncalcined, air plasma, and H2 plasma Pd/TiO2 and Pd−Ag/TiO2 catalysts. Air and H2 plasma treatments have different modif...
Efferent connections of the lateral hypothalamic area of the rat: An autoradiographic investigation

Abstract The efferent projections of the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) at mid-tuberal levels were examined with the autoradiographic tracing method. Connections were observed to widespread regions of the brain, from the telencephalon to the medulla. Ascending fibers course through LHA and the lateral preoptic area and lie lateral to the diagonal band of Broca. Fibers sweep dorsally into the lateral septal nucleus, cingulum bundle and medial cortex. Although sparse projections are found to the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus, a prominent pathway courses to the dorsal and medial parvocellular subnuclei of the paraventricular nucleus. Labeled fibers in the stria medullaris project to the lateral habenular nucleus. The central nucleus of the amygdala is encapsulated by fibers from the stria terminalis and the ventral amygdalofugal pathway. The substantia innominate, nucleus paraventricularis of the thalamus, and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis also receive LHA fibers. Three descending pathways course to the brainstem: (1) periventricular system, (2) central tegmental tract (CTT), and (3) medial forebrain bundle (MFB). Periventricular fibers travel to the ventral and lateral parts of the midbrain central gray, dorsal raphe nucleus, and laterodorsal tegmental nucleus of the pens. Dorsally coursing fibers of CTT enter the central tegmental field and the lateral and medial parabrachial nuclei. The intermediate and deep layers of the superior colliculus receive some fibers. Fibers from CTT leave the parabranchial region by descending in the ventrolateral pontine and medullary reticular formation; some of these fibers sweep dorsomedially into the nucleus tractus solitarius, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, and nucleus commissuralis. From MFB, fibers descend into the ventral tegmental area and to the border of the median raphe and raphe magnus nuclei.
National health insurance: A new imperative

When viewed from the perspective of the policy analyst, observed inequities in the access to health services and the rising costs of physician and hospital care are among the most important issues confronting the American health delivery system. Recognizing that publicly financed health insurance programs result in a more equitable distribution of medical services, this paper focuses on the components of a national health insurance scheme that not only offers a comprehensive range of benefits but also employs prospective payment and a set of financial incentives to control the costs of care provided by physicians, hospitals, and other health facilities. The national health insurance program proposed in this paper is designed to eliminate or reduce unwarranted expenditures on plant and equipment; the responsibility for approving and funding capital acquisitions is also regarded as an integral component of the program.