cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic versus conventional radial artery harvest--is smaller better?

BACKGROUND: We sought to assess our initial experience with the recently introduced technique of endoscopic radial artery harvest (ERH) for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). METHODS: Data were prospectively collected on 108 consecutive patients undergoing isolated CABG with ERH, and compared to 120 patients having conventional harvest (CH). Follow-up was achieved in 227 patients (99%). At the time of follow-up the severity of motor and sensory symptoms, as well as cosmetic result in the harvest forearm, were subjectively graded using a 5-point scale. Grade 1-- high intensity deficits, poor cosmetic result. Grade 5 -- no deficits, excellent cosmetic result. RESULTS: Hospital mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke rates were similar between the groups. Follow-up mortality, reintervention rate, and average angina class were also similar. Harvest time was longer in the ERH group (61 +/- 24 min vs. 45 +/- 11 min, p < 0.001). Three patients in the ERH group were converted to CH and one radial artery was discarded. There were no vascular complications of the hand in either group. Average score of motor (ERH 4.4 +/- 0.9, CH 4.2 +/- 1.0) or sensory symptoms (ERH 3.7 +/- 1.1, CH 3.8 +/- 1.2) were similar. In the CH group sensory deficits were observed in the distribution of both the lateral antebrachial cutaneous and the superficial radial nerves (SRN). In contrast, sensory deficits in the ERH group were limited to the distribution of the SRN. Cosmetic result score was higher in the ERH group (ERH 4.2 +/- 1.0, CH 3.1 +/- 1.4, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: ERH is safe. It is technically demanding with a significant learning curve. Motor and sensory symptoms are not completely eliminated by using a smaller incision, but cosmetic results are clearly superior.
Information concealment in the theory of vertical integration

Abstract A model of vertical integration is proposed in which the motive for vertical integration lies in the concealment of information to other firms, rather than uncovering of a new information. Since a vertically integrated firm trades internally rather than making publicly observable market transactions, vertical integration offers an opportunity for the integrated firm to turn previously observable market data into private information. It will be shown that when the acquisition cost of input is uncertain, the ex ante profit of a downstream firm will increase if the ex post realized value is private information, thereby providing a theory of vertical integration based on strategic information concealment. Welfare implications of vertical integration are also considered. Finally, we demonstrate that the vertically integrated firm will adopt an inefficient sourcing rule when there are alternative, but inferior input suppliers.
An improved dynamic programming algorithm for the single-machine mean absolute deviation problem with a restrictive common due date

In 1991, Hall et al. showed that the problem of minimizing the mean earliness and tardiness of n jobs scheduled on a single machine around a restrictive common due date is NP-complete. They proposed a pseudo-polynomial dynamic programming algorithm, called Optcet, for identifying an optimal schedule. This paper points out that two of the three subroutines in Optcet can be eliminated and, consequently, the total computational effort can be reduced significantly.
The link between basing self-worth on academics and student performance depends on domain identification and academic setting

Two studies showed that the link between how much students base their self-worth on academics and their math performance depends on whether their identification with math was statistically controlled and whether the task measured ability or not. Study 1 showed that, when math identification was uncontrolled and the task was ability-diagnostic, basing self-worth on academics was unrelated to the students' math performance. When math identification was controlled, however, the more students based self-worth on academics the worse their math performance. Study 2 showed that, when math identification was uncontrolled and the task was ability non-diagnostic, the more students based self-worth on academics the better their math performance. When math identification was controlled, however, students' level of basing self-worth on academics was unrelated to math performance. These results held for females and males even when gender was made salient. In both studies, higher math identification linked to better math performance.
Mixing Pesticide with Water Concurrently with Spraying12

A need to mix insoluble, dry pesticides with water concurrently with spraying led to equipment design, fabrication, and testing. Results of laboratory and field valuations indicated that this equipment could be used instead of conventional sprayers. There were no significant differences between this and conventional equipment for controlling corn earworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie), on sweet corn.
Nervous system-derived chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans regulate growth cone morphology and inhibit neurite outgrowth: a light, epifluorescence, and electron microscopy study.

Proteoglycans influence aging and plasticity in the nervous system. Particularly prominent are the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), which are generally inhibitory to neurite outgrowth. During development, CSPGs facilitate normal guidance, but following nervous system injury and in diseases of aging (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), they block successful regeneration, and are associated with axon devoid regions and degenerating nerve cells. Whereas previous studies used non-nervous system sources of CSPGs, this study analyzed the morphology and behavior of sensory (dorsal root ganglia) neurons, and a human nerve cell model (SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells) as they contacted nervous system–derived CSPGs, using a variety of microscopy techniques. The results of these qualitative analyses show that growth cones of both nerve cell types contact CSPGs via actin-based filopodia, sample the CSPGs repeatedly without collapse, and alter their trajectory to avoid nervous system–derived CSPGs. Turning and branching are correlated with increased filopodial sampling, and are common to both neurons and Schwann cells. We show that CSPG expression by rat CNS astrocytes in culture is correlated with sensory neuron avoidance. Further, we show for the first time the ultrastructure of sensory growth cones at a CSPG-laminin border and reveal details of growth cone and neurite organization at this choice point. This type of detailed analysis of the response of growth cones to nervous system–derived CSPGs may lead to an understanding of CSPG function following injury and in diseases of aging, where CSPGs are likely to contribute to aberrant neurite outgrowth, failed or reduced synaptic connectivity, and/or ineffective plasticity. Microsc. Res. Tech. 54:273–286, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Unsupervised learning of contextual constraints in neural networks for simultaneous visual processing of multiple objects

A simple self-organizing neural network model, called an EXIN network, that learns to process sensory information in a context-sensitive manner, is described. EXIN networks develop efficient representation structures for higher-level visual tasks such as segmentation, grouping, transparency, depth perception, and size perception. Exposure to a perceptual environment during a developmental period serves to configure the network to perform appropriate organization of sensory data. A new anti-Hebbian inhibitory learning rule permits superposition of multiple simultaneous neural activations (multiple winners), while maintaining contextual consistency constraints, instead of forcing winner-take-all pattern classifications. The activations can represent multiple patterns simultaneously and can represent uncertainty. The network performs parallel parsing, credit attribution, and simultaneous constraint satisfaction. EXIN networks can learn to represent multiple oriented edges even where they intersect and can learn to represent multiple transparently overlaid surfaces defined by stereo or motion cues. In the case of stereo transparency, the inhibitory learning implements both a uniqueness constraint and permits coactivation of cells representing multiple disparities at the same image location. Thus two or more disparities can be active simultaneously without interference. This behavior is analogous to that of Prazdny's stereo vision algorithm, with the bonus that each binocular point is assigned a unique disparity. In a large implementation, such a NN would also be able to represent effectively the disparities of a cloud of points at random depths, like human observers, and unlike Prazdny's method© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Quartz shielding of sub-10 μm zircons from radiation damage-enhanced Pb loss: An example from a metamorphosed mafic dike, northwestern Wyoming craton

Abstract The coupling of two new approaches enabled acquisition of in situ U–Pb data from zircons as small as 5 μm in a metamorphosed mafic dike from the Northern Madison Range, Montana. Despite negligible zircon yield by mineral separation, automated mineralogy rapidly identified >375 sub-20 μm zircons in a single thin section. Subsequently, zircon crystals were dated using modifications to the conventional SIMS technique to preferentially collect secondary ions emitted from a domain a few microns in size within the ∼20 μm diameter analysis pit. This approach allowed analysis of zircons too small to be dated by standard SIMS and TIMS methods. U–Pb data define a discordia array with upper and lower intercepts of 1753±9 Ma and 63±8 Ma, respectively (1 σ error, MSWD=1.5). We interpret the upper intercept to reflect zircon growth during high-temperature and high-pressure metamorphism (800 °C, 1.2 GPa) based on textural relationships between the dated zircons and the peak metamorphic assemblage. The lower intercept is attributable to the thermal pulse associated with emplacement of the nearby ca. 75 Ma Tobacco Root batholith. Percent discordance is linked with both textural setting and U concentration. Zircons located along grain boundaries or within fractured host grains display a positive correlation between U (1049–2817 ppm) and percent discordance (12–82%) that is consistent with radiation damage-enhanced Pb loss. In contrast, three zircons housed completely within unfractured quartz yield the most concordant analyses of the dataset (≤7% discordant), despite U concentrations comparable to highly discordant matrix grains. This relationship suggests that the included zircons were shielded from Pb loss by the encapsulating quartz crystals. The results imply that targeting zircons located completely within unfractured host phases may aid in isolating earlier portions of geologic histories. The primary geological implication of this dataset is to increase the documented extent of Paleoproterozoic high-grade metamorphism in the northwestern Wyoming craton.
The respiration during the moult cycle of Crangon vulgaris (Fabr.) (Crustacea, natantia)

Abstract The respiratory rate of the brackish water shrimp Crangon vulgaris (Fabricius) was found to be lowest in the intermoult stages C - D1, and the rate increased by a factor of 2.5 up to the proecdysis stage DJ and the postecdysis stage A. At the moult (ecdysis) a short and violent outburst of activity when the old exoskeleton was thrown off increased the oxygen consumption still more. The increased respiration before and after ecdysis is explained by a higher permeability which leads to more work in the regulation of the inner milieu of the animal.
Role of chaperones in antigen processing.

(2000). Role of Chaperones in Antigen Processing. Immunological Investigations: Vol. 29, No. 2, pp. 101-104.
Observed Associations between the Solar Interior, Corona, and Solar Wind

Using polarized brightness (pB) measurements made by the High Altitude Observatory (HAO) Mauna Loa Mk III K-coronameter, we investigate the daily changes of path-integrated density at1.15 R-circle dot.
A decade of progress in the use of electronic tubes: Part II — In other than the field of communication

IN comparison with the communication field, the use of electronic devices in other industry has played an entirely different role. In communication in general and in radio in particular, tubes and tube developments have been basic to most improvements. They have been truly called the “heart” of nearly all radio apparatus. In other industry, however, they have in general had to supplant other methods and to compete in highly developed fields of electrical engineering.
Abstract B51: Ligand-independent EphA2 signaling through Akt is preferentially activated in prostate cancer bone metastases and is important for tumor growth

Abstract Prostate cancer progression to castration-resistance (CRPC) and metastasis represent the major challenges to effective prostate cancer therapy. PI3 kinase/Akt pathway activation has been linked to CRPC progression and metastasis, but the precise mechanisms have only been partially determined. Recently, we discovered that ligand-independent activation of the EphA2 receptor tyrosine kinase by Akt on a serine 897 site (S897) promotes cell migration and invasion, while stimulation with its ligand, ephrin-A1, downregulates EphA2 and inhibits migration and invasion. In the current study, we sought to determine whether ligand-independent EphA2 activation by Akt is linked to prostate cancer metastasis and progression to CRPC through biochemical and immunohistochemical analyses. Analysis of a panel of human prostate cancer tissues revealed EphA2 overexpression and increased S897 phosphorylation primarily in bone metastases, the primary metastatic site. Similarly, EphA2 was overexpressed in human cell lines from bone and brain metastases, but not in those from lymph node metastasis or primary tumor. Further analysis in a PTEN-deletion mouse model of aggressive prostate cancer revealed increased S897 phosphorylation in prostate glands from PTEN-null mice, compared to wild type prostate glands. To determine the potential link of EphA2 phosphorylation to CRPC progression, we compared S897 phosphorylation in xenograft tumors from both LAPC9 androgen-dependent and castration-resistant prostate cancer cell lines and found increased S897 phosphorylation in tumors from castration-resistant cells. Finally, abolishing S897 phosphorylation through the S897A point mutation inhibited growth of PC3 prostate cancer cells in a xenograft mouse model. Our study supports a link between ligand-independent EphA2 activation and prostate cancer progression and metastasis to bone, as well as primary tumor growth, highlighting a potential new mechanism involved in malignant prostate cancer progression. Citation Format: Aaron Petty, Hui Miao, Hong Guo, Colm Morrissey, Arul Chinnaiyan, Hong Wu, Bingcheng Wang. Ligand-independent EphA2 signaling through Akt is preferentially activated in prostate cancer bone metastases and is important for tumor growth [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Prostate Cancer Research; 2012 Feb 6-9; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(4 Suppl):Abstract nr B51.
CONTRIBUTION OF THE PROTHROMBIN FRAGMENT 2 DOMAIN TO THE FUNCTION OF FACTOR VA IN THE PROTHROMBINASE COMPLEX

The prothrombinase complex assembles through reversible interactions between factor Xa, factor Va and acidic phospholipid-containing membranes in the presence of calcium ions. This complex catalyses the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin through two proteolytic steps. We have used prethrombin 2 as a substrate analog for the first cleavage reaction of prothrombin activation (cleavage at Arg323-Ile324) catalyzed by the prothrombinase complex and have also relied on the known ability of prethrombin 2 to interact tightly but reversibly with fragment 2 or fragment 1.2. The kinetics of cleavage at Arg323-Ile324 have been assessed with these substrate analogs to investigate the contribution of cofactor-substrate interactions mediated by the fragment 2 domain to the ability of factor Va to enhance the catalytic efficiency of factor Xa within the prothrombinase complex. Initial velocity measurements indicated that the rate of prethrombin 2 cleavage by the factor Xa-PCPS binary complex was increased by a factor of approximately 1300 upon the addition of saturating concentrations of factor Va to assemble prothrombinase. Although the measured initial velocity was higher when either fragment 2 or fragment 1.2 was present, the factor Va-dependent enhancement in initial rate (2600- and 1500-fold) was comparable in each case. Steady state kinetic constants were obtained using prethrombin 2, prethrombin 2 plus fragment 2, and prethrombin 2 plus fragment 1.2 as substrates. For each substrate, the addition of saturating concentrations of factor Va to the Xa-PCPS binary complex led to increases in catalytic efficiency of between 1000 and 9000-fold. The kcat/Km for prethrombin 2 cleavage by prothrombinase was essentially identical to that obtained for prethrombin 2 saturated with fragment 2. Thus, comparable accelerating effects of factor Va are observed independent of the presence of the fragment 2 domain in the substrate. The results indicate that interactions between factor Va and the substrate mediated by the fragment 2 domain do not contribute in a dominant way to the ability of factor Va to enhance the catalytic efficiency of factor Xa within the prothrombinase complex.
HyperImmunoglobulin E Syndrome: Clinical and Immunologic Evaluation within One Family 41

Hyper IgE syndrome (HIE) is characterized by recurrent staphylococcal deep-seated infections, mucocutaneous candidiasis, chronic eczematous dermatitis, bone fractures, and coarse facies. A father and two daughters (now 1 and 5 yrs old) with classical manifestations of HIE provided a unique opportunity for early and sequential evaluation of clinical and immunologic parameters. Extremely high serum IgE may be caused by abnormalities in T lymphocyte function and cytokine production. Measurements of T cell populations and cytokines that control IgE production, IL-4 and IFN-γ, have found variable results in HIE. In this family, IgE levels were 0 - 100 IU/ml in the first year of life, rising to >36000 at 4 yrs in one child. T cell responses to mitogens and antigens were already decreased. In the first year, the absolute CD 4 counts were increased (mean 5670) with normal percentages due to elevated total lymphocyte counts. CD8 counts near the lower limit of normal (mean 600) resulted in elevated CD4:CD8 ratios (range 5 to 11). Naive CD4CD45RA and committed CD4CD45RO showed a normal pattern: CD45RA decreased with age while CD45RO increased. Neutrophil dysfunction, especially in chemotaxis, also is reported in HIE. Assessment of neutrophil receptors showed a significantly decreased expression of the CD11b/CD18 heterodimer at 38%/35% for the younger child and 33%/45% for the older girl. In contrast, neutrophils from their father expressed CD11b/CD18 at normal levels. FcRIII(CD16) expression on neutrophils showed a strikingly different pattern: both children had a dual population of cells. 25-45% of neutrophils had decreased expression at 50% control, but 75-55% of cells had greatly upregulated FcRIII from 3.4 to 67 times normal. The father had a single population of FcRIII at 180% of control. Changes in IgE levels, T lymphocytes, and the expression of neutrophil receptors within this family suggest an age-related pattern. These findings may help in understanding the functional abnormalities, and potentially to identify the genetic defect in this rare primary immunodeficiency syndrome.
Whither the Nuevomexicanos: The career of a southwestern intellectual discourse, 1907–2004

Abstract Since the end of the Mexican American War in 1848, the Hispanic natives of New Mexico have been part of the greater Mexican American category, but at the turn of the 20th century, many of them began denying their Mexican heritage, ideologically claiming to be “Hispanos,” or “Spanish Americans,” instead. This renaming movement precipitated a debate among academics and social researchers over the true ethnic heritage of the Nuevomexicanos. This article reviews the major statements in this “discourse of intellectuals” since it began in 1907, noting the moments when ideas reflected the temper of their times, and highlighting the different conceptual standpoints that were taken in the aim of defining Nuevomexicano heritage. It concludes by cautioning about theory which would presume to define essential ethnicity.
Carcinoid Tumors of the Lung

Resection of typical bronchial carcinoid was carried out in 203 patients. The average age was 48 years, and the sex distribution was approximately equal. Bronchoscopy was the most definitive diagnostic procedure, even though 15% of the tumors were located in the segmental bronchus or beyond. Conservative resection including local removal of the lesion was the treatment of choice, but distal suppuration and location of the tumor necessitated pneumonectomy in 54 (27%) of the patients. The incidence of metastasis was 5% (11 patients), and the overall hospital mortality was 3%. Of patients who qualified for follow-up, 94% survived 5 years, and of those who were asymptomatic preoperatively, 98% survived 5 years. The 10- and 25-year survival rates for the group as a whole were 87 and 66%, respectively.
Relative Potency of Percutaneously Absorbed Corticosteroids in the Suppression of Pituitary-Adrenal Function *

We have previously shown that corticosteroids, when applied to diseased skin under an occlusive dressing, may be absorbed through the skin in quantities sufficient to cause systemic response (1, 2). Similar findings have been reported by several other investigators (3, 4, 5, 6). Suppression of pituitary-adrenal function, as indicated by decreases in plasma Cortisol and urinary steroid levels, has appeared to be the most sensitive indicator of the systemic pharmacologic activity of synthetic corticosteroids.
New galactic population class

It has been found that galactic gamma rays come from regions in which molecular hydrogen is dense and in which 'population I' objects are predominantly found. An interpretation of the existence of such regions leads to a proposal for a change in the Baade classification scheme. 'Population I' is to include all the objects associated with the H2 clouds. A new class, 'population 0' is to refer to the regions, relatively richer in atomic hydrogen, which lie further from the galactic center.
Effect of Insulin on the Metabolism of Circulating Maltose

ACirculating maltose and glucose are similarly metabolized in the rat. It has been suggested that circulating maltose is first hydrolyzed to glucose intravascularly. Nonfasting adult male rats were injected iv with 0.5 ml of 10% maltose-l-14C (0.5 μCi) or 10% glucose-1-14C (0.5 μCi) with or without 0.2 U of cystalline insulin. Expired CO2 was collected for 6 hr. In similar experiments on fasting rats, the epididymal fat pads were removed 1 hr after injection, total lipid extracted, and incorporation of radioactivity determined. The percentage of injected 14C expired as 14CO2 was the same for glucose (49%) and for glucose plus insulin (47%), and also for maltose (59%) and for maltose plus insulin (59%). Insulin effected a more rapid oxidation of both sugars. An earlier peak specific activity for expired 14CO2 was observed for glucose plus insulin, 47 ± 26 min (mean ± standard deviation) than for glucose alone, 85 ±37 min (p <0.01), and for maltose plus insulin, 70 ±20 min, than for maltose alone, 100 ± 15 ...
Stress Corrosion Crack Growth in Type 316 Stainless Steel in Supercritical Water

Abstract A crack growth rate test on a compact tension specimen of Type 316 (UNS S31600) stainless steel was conducted in pure water under both subcritical and supercritical conditions. The crack g...
Evolution of hydrogen gas from nicotinamide nucleotides by Proteus vulgaris.

Abstract Cells of Proteus vulgaris , which contain an active hydrogenase, were unable to reduce NAD + or NADP + with H 2 . On anaerobic incubation with the cells, these nucleotides gave rose to about 3 moles eacg of H 2 and CO 2 per mole of nucleotide. The source of these two gases was shown to be the ribose moieties of the nicotinamide nucleotides which are liberated when the nucleotides penetrate the cells and are enzymatically split. The ribose 5-phosphate which is formed is fermented to yield H 2 and CO 2 . Reduced nicotinamide nucleotides gave rise to only 1.5 mole of each gas per mole of nucleotide suggesting that the ribose-nicotinamide linkage is not split. NMN + , ATP, ADP, adenosine and inosine all produced about 1.5 mole each of H 2 and CO 2 when added anaerobically to Proteus vulgaris , while NMNH, ribose and ribose 5-phosphate produced no gas.
An empirical Kp-dependent global auroral model based on TIMED/GUVI FUV data

Abstract In this paper, a new empirical formulation of the mean energy and energy flux of precipitating electrons in the auroral oval is presented. Global far ultraviolet (FUV) observations by Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED)/Global Ultraviolet Imager (GUVI) (N 2 Lyman–Birge–Hopfield small (LBHS) 140.0–150.0 nm and Lyman–Birge–Hopfield long (LBHL) 165.0–180.0 nm) are used to estimate the mean energy (Eo) and energy flux ( Q ) of precipitating electrons based on an auroral model (Boltzman Three Constituent—B3C) and airglow model (Atmospheric Ultraviolet Radiance Integrated Code—AURIC). For the first time, a FUV-based and Kp-dependent model of global auroral products (Eo, Q ) was developed using 4 years (2002–2005) of GUVI data and Epstein function fitting. This FUV-based model covers all Kp ranges (0–9). Due to the large spatial coverage of FUV auroral images, the FUV measurements lead to a more consistent estimation of the auroral hemispheric power. The model described here will be useful in a number of applications: global ionosphere/thermosphere simulations, space weather forecasting and nowcasting, and global ionospheric models.
Requirements for machine learning in expert systems (abstract)

As Dietterich pointed out at the 1989 Machine Learning Workshop, the field needs analyses of the kinds of tasks that require machine learning (ML), and of the suitability of existing ML techniques for solving real problems. An area often mentioned as one that would benefit from ML is that of expert systems. Learning from experience could alleviate the knowledge acquisition “bottleneck”. Although there have been some impressive successes in learning practical knowledge from examples, existing ML techniques lack the power to learn to conduct different phases of an expert “consultation”. There are usually many dozens of variables to consider in an expert task, and their relevance changes as the consultation evolves. ML systems such as ID3, AQ11, and neural networks bog down quickly as extraneous variables are introduced. It is not practical to submit all data derived from an example consultation to such programs, expecting them to produce monolithic knowledge structures. Based on our work in developing a diagnostic expert system, we offer suggestions for future work in ML. One is that the system be given knowledge that is easily available from a human expert. The ML program should be given a “proto-rule” for a specific decision, indicating the most relevant variables to be used by the rule and its “roughcut” logic. Such knowledge can be gotten from an expert quickly. ML routines can then edit the logic and consider other variables as examples are considered. Search is reduced drastically. Other suggestions include ways to combine ML techniques.
Solvent effects during multicomponent ion uptake into a Nafion cation-exchange membrane

Abstract A multicomponent ion partition coefficient model has been used to predict competitive alkali metal ion uptake into a Nafion ® cation-exchange membrane from solvents composed of methanol, methanol/water, and acetonitrile/water. The analysis was similar to that used previously for monovalent and divalent uptake and transport in Nafion, where the membrane was modeled as an array of parallel cylindrical pores of constant radius with a continuous distribution of fixed charges along the pore wall. Ion–ion electrostatic interactions, electric-field induced solvent dipole alignment, and ion solvation free energy effects were taken into account. In the present study, the model was modified to account for a different solvent composition in the membrane, as compared to that in the external solution (solvent uptake data were collected experimentally). The model accurately predicted competitive K + /Na + uptake from methanol and methanol/water mixed solvents and Cs + /K + uptake selectivities for acetonitrile/water solvents. In the latter case, model calculations suggested that some acetonitrile absorbed into the amorphous PTFE phase of Nafion, when the external acetonitrile concentration was greater than 33 vol%. The addition of water to methanol caused a drop in the potassium/sodium selectivity (to its pure water value), whereas the addition of acetonitrile to water caused the Cs + /K + selectivity to decrease.
Using the patient's history to estimate the probability of coronary artery disease: a comparison of primary care and referral practices.

Abstract purpose: According to probability theory, the interpretation of new information should depend on the prior probability of disease. We asked if this principle applies to interpreting the history in patients with chest pain. We compared the prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients who had similar histories but who came from populations with different disease prevalence. patients and methods: We studied two high-disease-prevalence populations (patients referred for coronary arteriography) and two low-disease-prevalence populations (patients from primary care practices). We used clinical characteristics of one arteriography population to develop a logistic rule for estimating the probability of coronary artery narrowing. The number of clinical findings determined the logistic score, which was proportional to the prevalence of CAD. results: The prevalence of CAD was much lower in the primary care population than in the arteriography population, even when patients with similar logistic scores, and thus similar clinical histories, were compared. conclusion: A clinician must take account of the overall prevalence of disease in the clinical setting when using the patient's history to estimate the probability of disease. Failure to observe this caution may lead to errors in test selection and interpretation.
Determination of oxytetracycline levels in rainbow trout serum on a biphenyl column using high-performance liquid chromatography.

Abstract We developed a simple and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography method on a biphenyl column to determine oxytetracycline (OTC) levels in rainbow trout serum. The assay used deproteination, filtration, and subsequent separation on a reverse-phase biphenyl column, with UV detection at 355 nm. OTC (7.8–7.9 min) was completely resolved from structurally similar riboflavin (10.4–10.5 min), a common feed supplement. Estimated limits of detection and quantitation of OTC were 0.01 and 0.04 μg/mL, respectively. The average recovery for OTC was 102% with a R.S.D. of 8.34%. Calibration standards were linear from 0.01 to 10 μg/mL.
Structural effects of carbon monoxide coordination to carbon centers. π and σ bindings in aliphatic acyl versus aromatic aroyl cations

The binding of carbon monoxide to carbon centers has been examined with two series of aromatic and aliphatic oxocarbonium ions that are successfully isolated as crystalline and highly reactive (hygroscopic) aroylium and acylium salts with poorly coordinating counteranions. X-Ray crystallographic analyses at −150 °C afford precise structural parameters for the characteristic linear carbonyl bond (rCO) and the bond to the carbon centers (rCα). The correlations of these structural parameters evaluated for alkyl (Me, Et and i-Pr) and aryl (p-Me, 2,4,6-trimethyl, p-MeO and p-fluorophenyl) oxocarbonium ions with the corresponding carbonyl stretching frequencies in the solid-state (reflectance) IR spectra yield valuable insight into the binding mode of carbon monoxide. Most noteworthy is the synergic (π–σ) bonding in aroylium structures in contrast to the mainly σ bonding in acylium structures that are organic mimics for carbon monoxide bonding in classical and nonclassical metal carbonyls, respectively.
A Case of Diverticular Perforation in a Young Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis on Methotrexate

Background. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate (MTX), are associated with gastrointestinal toxicity. MTX inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, but it is unclear if polymorphisms of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene predict toxicity. Case. We describe a 33-year-old male with polyarticular rheumatoid arthritis who developed sigmoid diverticular perforation while receiving methotrexate, folic acid, prednisone, and naproxen. He tested heterozygous for the C677T allele MTHFR gene. Discussion. Rheumatoid arthritis and its treatments are associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal disease. In one study, perforation was highest among individuals with concomitant exposure to NSAIDs, nonbiologic DMARDs, and glucocorticoids. Multiple mutations of the MTHFR gene have been identified, but their association with MTX toxicity is unclear. This case adds to a growing body of literature that could help inform the treatment of others in the future.
Vocal and anatomical evidence for two-voiced sound production in the greater sage-grouse centrocercus urophasianus

Greater sage-grouse, Centrocercus urophasianus , have been a model system in studies of sexual selection and lek evolution. Mate choice in this species depends on acoustic displays during courtship, yet we know little about how males produce these sounds. Here we present evidence for previously undescribed two-voiced sound production in the sage-grouse. We detected this `double whistle' (DW) using multi-channel audio recordings combined with video recordings of male behavior. Of 28 males examined, all males produced at least one DW during observation; variation in DW production did not correlate with observed male mating success. We examined recordings from six additional populations throughout the species' range and found evidence of DW in all six populations, suggesting that the DW is widespread. To examine the possible mechanism of DW production, we dissected two male and female sage-grouse; the syrinx in both sexes differed noticeably from that of the domestic fowl, and notably had two sound sources where the bronchi join the syrinx. Additionally, we found males possess a region of pliable rings at the base of the trachea, as well as a prominent syringeal muscle that is much reduced or absent in females. Experiments with a live phonating bird will be necessary to determine how the syrinx functions to produce the whistle, and whether the DW might be the result of biphonation of a single sound source. We conclude that undiscovered morphological and behavioral complexity may exist even within well-studied species, and that integrative research approaches may aid in the understanding of this type of complexity.
Notation and performance in Bartók’s folksong settings for the piano and in his vocal music

Performance markings in the vocal lines of Bartok’s compositions are surprisingly sparse compared to how carefully the instrumental parts are furnished with detailed instructions to indicate the desired interpretation. The few markings in vocal parts, especially in the folksong settings, are mostly meant to create special effects. One possible explanation for this discrepancy might be found in the spontaneous, simple performance of the folk singers Bartok came across during his research. He presumably intended his vocal folksong settings to be performed in the same unaffected way that characterized the original folk performance. Comparison of recordings of folksongs and the sound recordings that preserved Bartok’s vocal folksong settings with the composer at the piano can put this assumption to the test.
Product differentiation during continuous-flow thermal gradient PCR.

A continuous-flow PCR microfluidic device was developed in which the target DNA product can be detected and identified during its amplification. This in situ characterization potentially eliminates the requirement for further post-PCR analysis. Multiple small targets have been amplified from human genomic DNA, having sizes of 108, 122, and 134 bp. With a DNA dye in the PCR mixture, the amplification and unique melting behavior of each sample is observed from a single fluorescent image. The melting behavior of the amplifying DNA, which depends on its molecular composition, occurs spatially in the thermal gradient PCR device, and can be observed with an optical resolution of 0.1°C pixel−1. Since many PCR cycles are within the field of view of the CCD camera, melting analysis can be performed at any cycle that contains a significant quantity of amplicon, thereby eliminating the cycle-selection challenges typically associated with continuous-flow PCR microfluidics.
Dielectrophoretic Focusing of Microparticles in Curved Microchannels

Focusing particles into a tight stream is usually a necessary step prior to counting, detecting and sorting them in microfluidic devices such as flow cytometers [1] and continuous-flow separators [2]. The diverse approaches to particle focusing may be classified as active or passive ones in nature. Active focusing utilizes external force field(s) to manipulate particles other than the force to pump the particle solution. This category covers the conventional sheath flow focusing method and the various sheathless focusing methods where a transverse acoustic, AC dielectrophoretic, or magnetic force must be externally imposed. Passive focusing exploits the geometric topology-induced internal force(s) to alter the particle motion. So far dielectrophoretic, hydrodynamic and inertial forces have been demonstrated to focus particles [3]. Here, we introduce a novel passive particle focusing technique in electrokinetic flow through curved microchannels. This focusing stems from the cross-stream dielectrophoretic motion induced by channel curvatures [4], and is demonstrated in a serpentine and a spiral microchannel.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Topographical characteristics and shear bond strength of tooth surfaces cut with a laser-powered hydrokinetic system.

Abstract Statement of problem. Erbium lasers, specifically Er;YAG and Er,Cr;YSGG that emit in the near red wavelengths, cut both enamel and dentine. Bonding to these cut surfaces with composites has not been assessed for all laser systems. Purpose. This investigation assessed the shear bond strength of composite bonded to tooth structure treated with an Er,Cr;YSGG–powered hydrokinetic system (HKS, Millennium system) and then was compared with surfaces treated with a carbide bur. Material and methods. Extracted human molars were cut into enamel and dentin with both systems. Nonetched and acid-etched subgroups were evaluated. Shear bond strength was measured with an Instron test machine with a knife-edge loading head. In addition, SEMs were evaluated. Results. There were no significant differences in shear bond strength between etched bur cut (23.3 ± 2.5 MPa), etched laser-cut enamel (23.7 ± 4.5 MPa), and nonetched laser-cut enamel (20.5 ± 2.8 MPa). For nonetched enamel, bond strength values for laser-cut surfaces were significantly higher than the bur-cut surfaces (8.7 ± 4.3 MPa). Bond strength differences for dentin between bur (14.3 ± 1.7 MPa) and laser cuts (11.5 ± 4.3 MPa) were not significant ( P =.03). SEM revealed that laser cutting of enamel did not cause formation of a smear layer. Conclusion. There were no significant differences in shear bond strength between etched bur-cut, etched laser-cut, and nonetched laser-cut enamel. With nonetched enamel, bond strength values for nonetched laser-cut surfaces were significantly higher than for the bur-cut surfaces. No bond strength differences between bur and laser cutting existed for dentin. Similar topography was observed for bur and laser prepared surfaces of etched enamel and nonetched dentin. (J Prosthet Dent 1999:82:451-5.)
Optical transpose interconnection system architectures.

The optical transpose interconnection system uses a simple pair of lenslet arrays to implement a one-to-one interconnection that is useful for shuffle-based multistage interconnection networks, mesh-of-trees matrix processors, and hypercubes.
One‐Step Synthesis of Highly Water‐Soluble Magnetite Colloidal Nanocrystals

A high-temperature solution-phase hydrolysis approach has been developed for the synthesis of colloidal magnetite nanocrystals with well-controlled size and size distribution, high crystallinity, and high water solubility. The synthesis was accomplished by the hydrolysis and reduction of iron(III) cations in diethylene glycol with a rapidly injected solution of sodium hydroxide at an elevated temperature. The high reaction temperature allows for control over size and size distribution and yields highly crystalline products. The superior water solubility is achieved by using a polyelectrolyte, that is, poly(acrylic acid) as the capping agent, the carboxylate groups of which partially bind to the nanocrystal surface and partially extend into the surrounding water. The direct synthesis of water-soluble nanocrystals eliminates the need for additional surface modification steps which are usually required for treating hydrophobic nanocrystals produced in nonpolar solvents through the widely recognized pyrolysis route. The abundant carboxylate groups on the nanocrystal surface allow further modifications, such as bioconjugation, as demonstrated by linking cysteamine to the particle surface. The monodisperse, highly water-soluble, superparamagnetic, and biocompatible magnetite nanocrystals should find immediate important biomedical applications.
Multiwalled carbon nanotube-based hydrogen gas sensors

Hydrogen sensitivity of as-deposited multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) was investigated. The MWNTs were directly coated between microfabricated gold electrodes by a catalytic chemical vapor deposition at 600degC using methane as the monomer. The MWNTs exhibited a higher response > 50% and faster response than conventional metal oxides-based gas sensors in law temperature range of 150-300degC. Furthermore, the selectivity of MWNT-based sensors for hydrogen was investigated with respective to methane. It was found that the sensor signals were in opposite direction when methane was introduced. These phenomena clearly indicated that the MWNTs had a capability to determine hydrogen selectively from hydrogen and methane mixture. In a practical application, hydrogen always emits to the atmosphere with methane or other hydrocarbons. Therefore, the proposed sensor has a capability to determine hydrogen in a hydrogen and methane (or hydrocarbon) gas mixture. In this paper, experimental results are analyzed in scientific and technological view points.
Environmental Chemical Exposure May Contribute to Uterine Cancer Development Studies with Tetrabromobisphenol A

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a widely used flame retardant, caused uterine tumors in rats. In this study, TBBPA was administered to male and female Wistar Han rats and B6C3F1/N mice by oral gavage in corn oil for 2 years at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg. TBBPA induced uterine epithelial tumors including adenomas, adenocarcinomas, and malignant mixed Mullerian tumors (MMMTs). In addition, endometrial epithelial atypical hyperplasia occurred in TBBPA-treated rats. Also found to be related to TBBPA treatment, but at lower incidence and at a lower statistical significance, were testicular tumors in rats, and hepatic tumors, hemangiosarcomas (all organs), and intestinal tumors in male mice. It is hypothesized that the TBBPA uterine tumor carcinogenic mechanisms involve altered estrogen levels and/or oxidative damage. TBBPA treatment may affect hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase-17β (HSD17β) and/or sulfotransferases, enzymes involved in estrogen homeostasis. Metabolism of TBBPA may also result in the formation of free radicals. The finding of TBBPA-mediated uterine cancer in rats is of concern because TBBPA exposure is widespread and endometrial tumors are a common malignancy in women. Further work is needed to understand TBBPA cancer mechanisms.
Best Practice Guidelines on Prevention Practice, Research, Training, and Social Advocacy for Psychologists

Preventive interventions have been shown to successfully aid the development of children, youths, and adults and avert maladjustment in individuals at risk for negative outcomes. Continued scientific advancement of preventive interventions is crucial to further the health of U.S. children, youths, and families. This article presents 15 best practice guidelines on prevention practice, research, training, and social advocacy for psychology. These guidelines articulate clear standards and a framework for moving the profession toward improving the well-being of a greater number of individuals and communities. The guidelines are intended to assist psychologists in evaluating their preparation for engaging in prevention work and in furthering their understanding through increased knowledge, skills, and experience in prevention.
The Silence Bleating! of the Lambdas: Comment

Alston and Chalfant&s least squares test for functional form is biased. A valid test is derived for both univariate and multivariate regression models. An estimation method to account for endogenous left- and right-hand-side current-period budget shares in the Rotterdam and LA-AIDS models is presented. Alston and Chalfant&s strenuous rejection of the LA-AIDS model in favor of the Rotterdam model is not supported by their data.
Cysteine protease inhibitor e64 reduces the rate of formation of selenite cataract in the whole animal

The purpose of this experiment was to test the effectiveness of E64 in prevention of selenite nuclear cataract in the whole animal. E64 is an inhibitor of cysteine proteases such as calpain (EC.3.4.22.17). In the whole animal, daily intraperitoneal injection of E64 was mildly effective in slowing the rate of formation of selenite nuclear cataract, although prevention was not permanent. Frequency of the nuclear cataract in selenite group at 5 days post selenite injection was significantly decreased from 40% to 17% in the selenite + E64 group, and the density of cataract in the Se + E64 group was reduced. However, crystallins and calpain were still degraded in the selenite + E64 group. E64 was more effective against selenite cataract when present continuously during lens culture, where it slowed the rate of formation of nuclear opacity. Amelioration of cataract occurred both in vitro and in vivo even though lens calcium concentrations were elevated. The results supported the idea that application of calpain inhibitor is beneficial in prevention of rodent selenite cataracts.
Some qualitative properties of sampled-data control systems

The authors consider sampled-data control systems which consist of an interconnection of a continuous-time nonlinear plant and a digital controller which has quantizers (but is otherwise linear), along with the required interface elements (A/D and D/A converters). In the present paper the authors study the qualitative effects of the quantizers and the plant nonlinearities of these systems.
Preconcentration techniques for trace analysis via neutron activation

A review is given of the methods that have been proposed for enrichment of trace elements in samples that are to be analysed by neutron-activation methods. The emphasis is on classification of methods, with full illustrations by means of practical examples.