cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distribution of Neoplasms and Other Diseases in Marine Fishes Relative to the Discharge of Waste Water

This study was based on an examination of approximately 290,000 fishes that comprised 151 species collected from southern California coastal waters, 1969 to 1976. Approximately 5 percent of the fishes were affected with external signs of disease, such as fin erosion, tumors, color anomalies, and attached macroparasites. Fin erosion diseases were reported in the greatest number of species and occurred at the highest frequencies. Fin erosion in Dover sole is the only disease that appears to be directly associated with discharge of municipal waste waters in southern California. It occurs primarily at one site, the Palos Verdes shelf, and appears to result from exposure to contaminated sediments at that site. The occurrence of skin tumors on young Dover sole covers an even wider geographic area, and the disease is quite similar to that which affects pleuronectids as far north as Bristol Bay, Alaska. The lack of association with specific waste discharge conditions coupled with an apparent relation to the life cycle of the Dover sole suggest that changes in waste discharge practices will have little impact on the prevalence of these tumors unless the changes affect survival rates and distributional patterns of young fish. The lack of infestation of Pacificmore » sanddabs by the parasite P. cincinnatus at Palos Verdes is curious and deserves further study. It is possible that the high levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons in the tissues of bottom fish at Palos Verdes are inimical to this and, possibly other, attached macroparasites.« less
Herpes simplex virus 1 late gene expression is preferentially inhibited during infection of the TAF250 mutant ts13 cell line.

Abstract A key component of the polymerase II transcription machinery is the transcription factor TFIID, a complex that contains the TATA-box binding protein and several (10–12) associated factors designated as TAFs (TBP-associated factors). ts13 cells, which contain a temperature-sensitive mutant in TAF250, the largest subunit of TFIID, exhibit promoter-specific defects in gene expression at the nonpermissive temperature, suggesting that individual TAFs are required for transcription of specific subsets of eukaryotic genes. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) does not replicate in ts13 cells at the nonpermissive temperature, but the point at which the replicative process is blocked is not known. We used the TAF250 defect in ts13 cells to investigate the role of TAF250 in the expression of HSV-1 genes of each temporal class. At a low m.o.i., expression of most immediate-early mRNAs is reduced at the nonpermissive temperature, and consequently, there is little expression of early genes and no viral DNA replication. In contrast, at high m.o.i., expression of immediate-early genes is unaffected by the TAF250 defect and is not dependent on de novo viral protein synthesis. Early genes and early proteins are produced under these conditions, and viral DNA replication ensues, albeit at somewhat reduced levels. In contrast, late gene expression and late protein synthesis are severely restricted, even in the presence of appreciable viral DNA replication. Thus the lack of late protein synthesis is responsible for the inability of HSV-1 to replicate in ts13 cells at the nonpermissive temperature. Further, it appears that late viral gene expression may be preferentially inhibited by the TAF250 mutation in ts13 cells.
Guided ion beam studies of the reactions of with D2: cluster–deuteride bond energies as a chemical probe of cluster electronic structure

Abstract The kinetic energy dependencies of the reactions of chromium cluster cations, Cr n + (n=2–14) , with D 2 are studied in a guided ion beam mass spectrometer. The observed products are Cr n D + (n=2–14) and Cr n D 2 + (n=6–14) . All reactions are observed to exhibit thresholds, except for formation of the dideuteride product for Cr n + (n=6–8) . Threshold analyses of the endothermic reactions reveal binding energies for the first deuterium atom to the cluster ions as a function of cluster size. The Cr n + –D bond energies are compared to previously determined metal–metal bond energies, D 0 (Cr n + –Cr). The bond energies of Cr n + –D exhibit odd–even oscillations with n that parallel those of Cr n + –Cr. These trends support our earlier suggestion that bonding in Cr n + clusters, at least for n =2–11, are governed by electronic factors.
A Composite Microsphere/Nanofiber Controlled Release System for Fibrous Tissue Engineering

Fibrous tissues are characterized by a dense, ordered collagenous structure that defines their unique and anisotropic mechanical properties. These properties are critical for tissue function, and are compromised in instances of injury and tissue degeneration. To improve repair, engineering methods based on electrospinning have produced aligned and anisotropic scaffolds composed of biodegradable nanofibers that can serve as templates for new tissue formation [1]. For example, the slow degrading polyester, poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) can be formed into aligned arrays that direct cell alignment and ordered ECM deposition, with construct mechanical properties that increase with time [2]. We have further modified these structural templates via the fabrication of multi-polymer composites, with different mechanical properties and degradation profiles provided by different component materials [3]. For example, inclusion of a sacrificial poly-ethylene oxide (PEO) fiber element, followed by its removal (via hydration) increases the porosity of the remaining PCL network and expedites cell infiltration [4].Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Impaired verbal reasoning and constructional apraxia in subjects with right hemisphere damage

In addition to causing visuospatial deficits, damage to the right cerebral hemisphere also impairs other cognitive abilities, including those requiring higher-order aspects of language. The present study used a standardized test battery to examine the relationship between visuospatial abilities and comprehension of narrative material in subjects having unilateral right hemisphere damage (RHD). In a series of 41 consecutively admitted RHD subjects, impairments in abstracting information from narrative passages were as prevalent and as severe in magnitude as constructional apraxia. Moreover, the extent of the visuospatial and linguistic impairments were highly correlated. Although age, educational levels, and degree of premorbid brain atrophy were all found to influence performance, analysis of a select subgroup of the population established that the covariation of visuospatial and verbal impairments is related to right hemisphere damage per se. Clinically, these findings may be of significance for understanding the pervasive cognitive impairments that are often evidenced by RHD patients.
Urban Errands: The means of mobility

Premising that both mobility and technology are co-constituted by gender, this article analyzes, through two day-long in situ interviews, the activities of two American women, one in Portland and the other in Manhattan. The author examines how mobility as a social and material system undergirds the use of new technologies such as cell phones. Furthermore, the article examines how possibilities for civic life circulate among these aspects of environmental, technological and social infrastructures.
Sexual and physical abuse : Do they compromise drug treatment outcomes ?

Histories of sexual and physical abuse are frequently reported by individuals participating in substance abuse treatment, these experiences may be associated with psychopathology and poor drug treatment outcomes. This paper presents the findings from a longitudinal study of 330 subjects participating in 26 outpatient treatment programs. Sexual abuse among women was associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and PTSD, while physical abuse was associated with fewer psychological disturbances. For men, sexual abuse was associated only with anxiety. Physical abuse was associated with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and PTSD. However, no significant association was found between sexual and physical abuse, and lower levels of treatment participation or drug use at follow-up. These findings indicate that there is a complex connection between abuse, psychopathology, treatment participation, and relapse. Clinical and research implications of these findings are discussed.
Angiotensin II-NAD(P)H Oxidase-Stimulated Superoxide Modifies Tubulovascular Nitric Oxide Cross-Talk in Renal Outer Medulla

The source of superoxide (O2*-) production and cell-to-cell interactions of O2*- and nitric oxide (NO) in response to angiotensin II (AngII) were studied by fluorescence microscopic techniques to image rat renal outer medullary microtissue strips. Changes in intracellular O2*- were determined by dihydroethidium-ethidium ratios, and NO was determined with 4,5-diaminofluorescein diacetate. AngII (1 micromol/L) significantly increased O2*- in the isolated, medullary thick ascending limb (mTAL). These responses were inhibited by the superoxide dismutase mimetic 4-hydroxytetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPOL) and by the NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitors diphenylene iodonium and apocynin. AngII did not increase O2*- in either pericytes of isolated, intact vasa recta (VR) or pericytes of VR with a disrupted endothelium, even when surrounded by mTAL. However, AngII did increase O2*- when the tissue strips were preincubated with the NO scavenger 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (carboxy-PTIO), indicating that cross-talk of O2*- from mTAL to the VR occurred but was normally inhibited by NO. Also, tissue O2*- reduction by TEMPOL increased the diffusion of NO from mTAL to the pericytes, indicating that cross-talk of NO from the mTAL to the VR is also inhibited by O2*-. We conclude that AngII stimulates O2*- production in mTAL via the NAD(P)H oxidase pathway and that interactions of O2*- and NO ultimately determine the effectiveness of in situ free-radical cross-talk between the mTAL and the VR.
Increased threat of tropical cyclones and coastal flooding to New York City during the anthropogenic era

In a changing climate, future inundation of the United States' Atlantic coast will depend on both storm surges during tropical cyclones and the rising relative sea levels on which those surges occur. However, the observational record of tropical cyclones in the North Atlantic basin is too short (A.D. 1851 to present) to accurately assess long-term trends in storm activity. To overcome this limitation, we use proxy sea level records, and downscale three CMIP5 models to generate large synthetic tropical cyclone data sets for the North Atlantic basin; driving climate conditions span from A.D. 850 to A.D. 2005. We compare pre-anthropogenic era (A.D. 850-1800) and anthropogenic era (A.D.1970-2005) storm surge model results for New York City, exposing links between increased rates of sea level rise and storm flood heights. We find that mean flood heights increased by ∼1.24 m (due mainly to sea level rise) from ∼A.D. 850 to the anthropogenic era, a result that is significant at the 99% confidence level. Additionally, changes in tropical cyclone characteristics have led to increases in the extremes of the types of storms that create the largest storm surges for New York City. As a result, flood risk has greatly increased for the region; for example, the 500-y return period for a ∼2.25-m flood height during the pre-anthropogenic era has decreased to ∼24.4 y in the anthropogenic era. Our results indicate the impacts of climate change on coastal inundation, and call for advanced risk management strategies.
Chronic obstructive lung disease and posttraumatic stress disorder: current perspectives.

Background Several studies have reported on the co-occurrence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and psychiatric conditions, with the most robust evidence base demonstrating an impact of comorbid anxiety and depression on COPD-related outcomes. In recent years, research has sought to determine if there is a co-occurrence between COPD and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as for associations between PTSD and COPD-related outcomes. To date, there have been no published reviews summarizing this emerging literature. Objectives The primary objective of this review was to determine if there is adequate evidence to support a co-occurrence between PTSD and COPD. Secondary objectives were to: 1) determine if there are important clinical considerations regarding the impact of PTSD on COPD management, and 2) identify targeted areas for further research. Methods A structured review was performed using a systematic search strategy limited to studies in English, addressing adults, and to articles that examined: 1) the co-occurrence of COPD and PTSD and 2) the impact of PTSD on COPD-related outcomes. To be included, articles must have addressed some type of nonreversible obstructive lung pathology. Results A total of 598 articles were identified for initial review. Upon applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, n=19 articles or abstracts addressed our stated objectives. Overall, there is inconclusive evidence to support the co-occurrence between PTSD and COPD. Studies finding a significant co-occurrence generally had inferior methods of identifying COPD; in contrast, studies that utilized more robust COPD measures (such as a physician exam) generally failed to find a relationship. Among studies that examined the impact of PTSD on COPD-related outcomes, there was more consistent evidence that PTSD affects the perception of respiratory symptom burden and management. In addition, methods for measuring an important confounder (smoking) were generally lacking. Conclusion There is inconclusive evidence to support the co-occurrence of COPD and PTSD. There was stronger evidence implicating PTSD as an important comorbidity impacting COPD management. Further research is needed to: 1) determine whether or not COPD and PTSD are likely to be comorbid, and 2) further elucidate the mechanisms connecting PTSD and COPD-related outcomes.
Strabismus surgery: what's next?

T he art and science of strabismus surgery has been essentially static for decades. Outside of incremental advances, such as graded surgery or adjustable sutures, the essence of the strabismus surgeon’s work is the same: weaken overacting muscles by recession; strengthen underacting muscles by resection or advancement. To some extent, this approach has been effective. But few would argue that our results are predictable, reliable, or permanent. In fact, a review of the recent literature suggests just the opposite. Trigler and Siatkowski report a horizontal reoperation rate of 34% overall for children with infantile esotropia. An astonishing 67% required reoperation if the initial surgery was performed at 15 months of age or earlier. Ekdawi and colleagues, in a population-based study of children requiring surgery for intermittent exotropia with long-term follow-up, found that only 46% were successfully aligned (\10) at 5 years postoperatively, and this decreased to 14% by 15 years. In a similar study of children with infantile esotropia, Louwagie and colleagues found a 66% reoperation rate 20 years after initial surgery. In his recent editorial in this Journal, Repka summarized the state of our art by saying, ‘‘Realignment after strabismus surgery is not as good as we would like and not as stable.’’ What might contribute to such poor long-term outcomes? Incisional surgery of the extraocular muscle insertions may have unintended but deleterious biomechanical consequences that affect function over the long term. We know, for example, that surgery that alters the effective length of the muscle and the arc of contact of the muscle with the globe affects the lever arm of the muscle, and therefore the rotational force that the muscle can exert on the globe. Although this may accomplish the surgeon’s wishes in the near term, the long-term consequences of the surgery are far less predictable because extraocular muscle tonus may change with time. The child who has good alignment after bilateral medial rectus muscle recession may be a setup for consecutive exotropia if the excessive esotonus that gave rise to the esotropia declines over time, rendering the recessed medial rectus muscles incapa-
Technology Challenges in Responding to Biological or Chemical Attacks in the Civilian Sector

Increasingly sophisticated technologies are needed for counterterrorism responses to biological and chemical warfare agents. Recently developed detection and identification systems are characterized by increased sensitivity, greater automation, and fewer false alarms. Attempts are also under way to reduce the cost and complexity of field-deployable systems. A broad range of decontamination reagents for equipment and personnel is emerging, but decontamination of large buildings, inaccessible spaces, and sensitive equipment remains problematic.
Non-invasive evaluation of energy loss in the pulmonary arteries using 4D phase contrast MR measurement: a proof of concept

Background: The repair surgery of congenital heart disease (CHD) associated with the right ventricular (RV)-pulmonary artery (PA) pathophysiology often left patients with critical post-operative lesions, leading to regurgitation and obstruction in the PAs. These lesions need longitudinal (with time) assessment for monitoring the RV function, in order for patients to have appropriate treatment before irreversible RV dysfunction occurs. In this research, we computed energy loss in the branch PAs using blood flow and pressure drop data obtained from 4D phase contrast (PC) MRI, to non-invasively quantify the RV-PA pathophysiology. Methods: 4D PC MRI was acquired for a CHD patient with abnormal RV-PA physiology, including pulmonary regurgitation and PA stenosis, and a subject with normal RV-PA physiology. The blood velocity, flow rate, and pressure drop data, obtained from 4D PC MRI, were used to compute and compare the energy loss values between the patient and normal subjects. Results: The pressure drop in the branch PAs for the patient was �1.3 mmHg/s and �0.2 mmHg/s for the RPA and LPA, respectively, and was larger (one order of magnitude) than that for the control. Similarly, the total energy loss in the branch PAs for the patient, -96.9 mJ/s and �16.4 mJ/s, for the RPA and LPA, respectively, was larger than that for the control. Conclusions: The amount of energy loss in the pulmonary blood flow for the patient was considerably larger than the normal subject due to PA regurgitation and PA stenosis. Thus, we believe that the status of RV-PA pathophysiology for CHD patients can be evaluated non-invasively using energy loss endpoint.
Ridge belts; evidence for regional- and local-scale deformation on the surface of Venus

Models for the formation of the ridge belt fan assemblage on Venus are evaluated through consideration of the orientation, spatial distribution, topographic expression, and wavelengths of observed tectonic surface features. A compressional mechanism is favored for long wavelength deformation corresponding to the spacing of ridge belts (300 - 400 km). However, short wavelength ridges and grooves (10 - 20 km) that are contained within belts and trend parallel to them are likely to be compressional and extensional, and to reflect both regional and local stress fields. It is hypothesized that large-scale (much greater than ridge spacing) early-stage mantle downwelling is the source of regional compression responsible for the establishment of the long wavelength of deformation.
Industrial Equipment Spectrum Signatures

This paper presents a survey of the radiation characteristics (spectrum signatures) of electrical and electronic equipment such as rectifiers, welders, power lines, switching devices, ignition systems, induction heaters, and electric motors. Several equipment signatures were compiled from reports on interference. The reports indicated that some industrial activities radiate strongly enough to cause interference at ranges up to a few miles and that most of the energy is concentrated in the low-frequency portion of the spectrum. The equipment was measured at very low frequencies at the Douglas Aircraft Company, Santa Monica, Calif., using Stoddart Aircraft Radio Company receivers. Graphs of the measurements show strong and unique signatures in the SLF and ULF (30 - 3000 cps) bands.
Oblique shock reflection from an axis of symmetry: shock dynamics and relation to the Guderley singularity

Oblique shock reflection from an axis of symmetry is studied using Whitham's theory of geometrical shock dynamics, and the results are compared with previous numerical simulations of the phenomenon by Hornung (2000). The shock shapes (for strong and weak shocks), and the location of the shock-shock (for strong shocks), are in good agreement with the numerical results, though the detail of the shock reflection structure is, of course, not resolved by shock dynamics. A guess at a mathematical form of the shock shape based on an analogy with the Guderley singularity in cylindrical shock implosion, in the form of a generalized hyperbola, fits the shock shape very well. The smooth variation of the exponent in this equation with initial shock angle from the Guderley value at zero to 0.5 at 90° supports the analogy. Finally, steady-flow shock reflection from a symmetry axis is related to the self-similar flow.
Preclinical ROC studies of digital stereomammography

Reports the diagnostic performance of observers in detecting abnormalities in computer-generated mammogram-like images. A mathematical model of the human breast is defined in which breast tissues are simulated by spheres of different sizes and densities. Images are generated by casting rays from a specified source, through the model, and onto an image plane. Observer performance when using two viewing modalities (stereo versus mono) is compared. In the stereo viewing mode, images are presented to the observer (wearing liquid-crystal display glasses), such that the left eye sees the left image only and the right eye sees the right image only. In this way, the images can be fused by the observer to obtain a sense of depth. In the mono viewing mode, identical images are presented to the left and right eyes so that no binocular disparities will be produced by the images. Observer response data are evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to characterize any difference in detectability of abnormalities (in either the density or the arrangement of simulated tissue densities) using the two viewing modes. The authors' experimental results indicate the clear superiority of stereo viewing for detection of arrangement abnormalities. For detection of density abnormalities, the performance of the two viewing modes is similar. These preliminary results suggest that stereomammography may permit easier detection of certain tissue abnormalities, perhaps providing a route to earlier tumor detection in cases of breast cancer. >
Eine Basis für die Orbitalsymmetrieregeln

Der Einflus der Molekulsymmetrie auf die Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit wird mit einem Verfahren untersucht, das chemische Reaktionen als elektronische Ubergange zwischen Edukt- und Produktzustanden betrachtet, wobei diese Zustande durch quasiadiabatische Potentialflachen beschrieben werden. Fur diese Ubergange werden unter Verwendung des molekularen Hamilton-Operators Auswahlregeln hergeleitet. Der vollstandige Hamilton-Operator weist keine brauchbare Symmetrie auf; die Vernachlassigung von Nicht-Born-Oppenheimer-Termen, von Spin-Bahn-Kopplungstermen und anderen Drehimpulskopplungstermen ergibt einen approximierten Hamilton-Operator und fuhrt zu Auswahlregeln, welche die Basis der Woodward-Hoffmann-Regeln bilden. Dieser Ansatz bietet eine Alternative zu den adiabatischen Potentialflachen, den Reaktionskoordinaten und der Theorie des Ubergangszustandes, die bei der Diskussion der Woodward-Hoffmann-Regeln ublicherweise zugrunde gelegt werden. Daruber hinaus lassen sich mit diesem Ansatz Verletzungen der Symmetrieregeln besonders gut diskutieren und konzertierte von nichtkonzentrierten Reaktionen unterscheiden.
A new algorithm for interactive graphics on multicomputers

As nonshared-memory multiple instruction, multiple data (MIMD) systems become more common, it becomes important to develop parallel rendering algorithms for them. These systems, known as multicomputers, can produce data sets so large that it is difficult to visualize the data on conventional graphics systems, especially if the visualization proceeds in tandem with the calculation. Parallel systems must run interactive graphics to allow convenient visualizations of their computations. While few parallel systems currently have a frame buffer that will support interactive rendering, such systems should be more common in the future. This article describes an algorithm suited for interactive polygon rendering, where the model's image on screen generally has frame-to-frame coherence. The algorithm uses this coherence to perform load-balancing calculations in parallel with the other calculations. The algorithm also uses an optimized version of personalized all-to-all communication, where all processors communicate with all other processors. >
Translational mobility of the membrane intercalated particles of human erythrocyte ghosts. pH-dependent, reversible aggregation.

This paper demonstrates the translational movement along the plane of the human erythrocyte ghost of the membrane particles exposed by freeze-fracture. The membrane particles can be aggregated by incubation of the ghosts in media with a pH in the vicinity of 5 5 or 3 5. The particles are disaggregated in neutral and alkaline media (pH 9 5) and also at pH 4.5 Aggregation of the particles at pH 5.5 is reversible, prevented by prefixation in glutaraldehyde and by media of high ionic strength. Particle aggregation occurs within 2–4 min. These results are consistent with the concept that the erythrocyte ghost membrane is a planar fluid domain formed by a bilayer membrane continuum which is interrupted by localized, yet mobile, proteic intercalations.
Standard Setting, Intellectual Property Rights, and the Role of Antitrust in Regulating Incomplete Contracts

A large and growing number of regulators and academics, while recognizing the benefits of standardization, view skeptically the role standard setting organizations (SSOs) play in facilitating standardization and commercialization of intellectual property rights (IPRs). Competition agencies and commentators suggest specific changes to current SSO IPR policies to reduce incompleteness and favor an expanded role for antitrust law in deterring patent holdup. These criticisms and policy proposals are based upon the premise that the incompleteness of SSO contracts is inefficient and the result of market failure rather than an efficient outcome reflecting the costs and benefits of adding greater specificity to SSO contracts and emerging from a competitive contracting environment. We explore conceptually and empirically that presumption. We also document and analyze changes to eleven SSO IPR policies over time. We find that SSOs and their IPR policies appear to be responsive to changes in perceived patent holdup risks and other factors. We find the SSOs’ responses to these changes are varied across SSOs, and that contractual incompleteness and ambiguity for certain terms persist both across SSOs and over time, despite many revisions and improvements to IPR policies. We interpret this evidence as consistent with a competitive contracting process. We conclude by exploring the implications of these findings for identifying the appropriate role of antitrust law in governing ex post opportunism in the SSO setting.
A study of sea emission models for WindSat

Three physical models for the microwave polarimetric brightness temperature of the sea surface are reviewed and compared. Two of these models are based on the composite surface theory, but use slightly different forms for the sea surface spectrum. The third model is based on a small slope approximation. All models are shown to predict similar zeroth, first, and second harmonic azimuthal variations of sea brightness and to show reasonable agreement with empirical results. However some discrepancies exist that is examined.
Fault protection and ride-through scheme for MVDC power distribution systems utilizing a supervisory controller

The paper proposes a protection scheme for zonal MVDC systems that allows fault isolation and ride-through of unfaulted zones. A Supervisory Controller coordinates the actions of mechanical contactors and a switching power converter to achieve the protection and reconfiguration function necessary in MVDC systems. Experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and performance of the approach.
Requirements elicitation and elicitation technique selection: model for two knowledge-intensive software development processes

By its very nature, software development consists of many knowledge-intensive processes. One of the most difficult to model, however, is requirements elicitation. This paper presents a mathematical model of the requirements elicitation process that clearly shows the critical role of knowledge in its performance. One meta-process of requirements elicitation, selection of an appropriate elicitation technique, is also captured in the model. The values of this model are: (1) improved understanding of what needs to be performed during elicitation helps analysts improve their elicitation efforts, (2) improved understanding of how elicitation techniques are selected helps less experienced analysts be as successful as more experienced analysts, and (3) as we improve our ability to perform elicitation, we improve the likelihood that the systems we create meet their intended customers' needs. Many papers have been written that promulgate specific elicitation methods. A few have been written that model elicitation in general. However, none have yet to model elicitation in a way that makes clear the critical role played by knowledge. This paper's model captures the critical roles played by knowledge in both elicitation and elicitation technique selection.
Development of a tool to evaluate geropsychology knowledge and skill competencies.

Background Workforce shortages to meet the mental health needs of the world's aging population are well documented. Within the field of professional geropsychology in the U.S.A., a national conference was convened in 2006 to delineate competencies for psychological practice with older adults and a training model for the field. The conference produced the Pikes Peak Model of Geropsychology Training. The Council of Professional Geropsychology Training Programs (CoPGTP) aimed to produce a competency evaluation tool to help individuals define training needs for and evaluate progress in development of the Pikes Peak professional geropsychology competencies. Methods A CoPGTP task force worked for one year to adapt the Pikes Peak Model geropsychology attitude, knowledge, and skill competencies into an evaluation tool for use by supervisors, students and professional psychologists at all levels of geropsychology training. The task force developed a competency rating tool, which included delineation of behavioral anchors for each of the Pikes Peak geropsychology knowledge and skill competencies and use of a developmental rating scale. Pilot testing was conducted, with 13 individuals providing feedback on the clarity and feasibility of the tool for evaluation of oneself or students. Results The Geropsychology Knowledge and Skills Assessment Tool, Version 1.1, is now posted on the CoPGTP website and is being used by geropsychology training programs in the U.S.A. Conclusions The evaluation tool has both strengths and limitations. We discuss future directions for its ongoing validation and professional use.
Study of Participation Barriers in Family-Focused Prevention: Research Issues and Preliminary Results:

There is a growing body of literature which argues for more research on barriers to participation in family-focused interventions, particularly among at-risk families. Following a review of research needs and issues suggested by the literature, this article presents results from a study which 1) evaluates reasons for decisions against participation in a family-focused prevention intervention project and 2) compares characteristics of intervention project participants with those of non-participants. Data on reasons for refusing participation were collected from non-participants during a recruitment telephone interview and via a mail survey. Results indicated that the most frequent reasons given for decisions against participation concerned intervention time demands and research-related requirements such as videotaping. There were no significant differences between participants and non-participants on any sociodemographic variables. Analyses of the relationships between reasons for participation refusal and...
Modified apical dissection for early continence after radical prostatectomy

A prospective evaluation of urinary continence in 83 consecutive patients undergoing radical prostatectomy using a modified apical urethral dissection is described. Using this technique, complete continence has been achieved in 88%, with stress incontinence in 11% and total incontinence in 1%. Continence was achieved in less than 1 week to a maximum of 16 weeks, with 17% dry during the first week, 53% dry by 6 weeks, and 81% by 3 months. Median time to continence was 5 weeks. Median age of the continent patients was significantly lower than that of incontinent patients. Neither the number of neurovascular bundles resected, the need to reconstruct the vesical neck, nor the number of anastomotic sutures used affected the rate of continence. The described technique, which incorporates the fascia posterior to the urethra into the vesicourethral anastomosis, results in earlier continence after radical prostatectomy, and thereby lessens the morbidity of this procedure. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
QCM viscometer for bioremediation and microbial activity monitoring

A quartz crystal microbalance has been used to monitor the polymer production of a bacterial population in liquid medium. The increasing amount of produced polymer corresponds to an increase in the viscosity of the liquid, which is directly measurable as the fluid contacts the surface of the quartz crystal in the sensor system. This procedure is being developed as a novel method for measuring microbial polymer production and growth of an environmental isolate obtained from river sediment contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. This measurement technique may be used to monitor growth characteristics of unknown anaerobic bacteria when used in conjunction with other currently employed microbiological test methods, such as spectrophotometry, to measure turbidity. In the presence of glucose, a novel, strictly anaerobic bacterial isolate, designated strain JEL-1, produces a viscous, as yet unidentified, polymer. In defined minimal media containing amino acids and glucose under a nitrogen gas atmosphere, copious quantities of this polymer are produced. This research investigates the corresponding increase in quantity of the polymer produced by JEL-1 as well as the polymer production rate in a controlled liquid medium.
Prospective Randomized Comparison of 1-Day versus 3-Day Application of Topical Levofloxacin in Eliminating Conjunctival Flora:

PURPOSE. To compare efficacy of a 1-day versus 3-day application of topical levofloxacin in reducing ocular surface bacteria. METHODS. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, 100 volunteer patients (50 per group) were assigned to receive topical 0.5% levofloxacin four times daily for 1 day or 3 days. Conjunctival cultures were obtained prior to (T0) and after the application of antibiotics (T1). Additionally, all patients received topical levofloxacin at 5-minute intervals for three applications (T2), followed by two drops of topical 5% povidone-iodine (T3). Conjunctival cultures were obtained at timepoints T2 and T3. R ESULTS. A 1-day application of topical levofloxacin significantly reduced (p = 0.0004) the number of eyes with positive conjunctival cultures from 41 eyes (82%) to 23 eyes (46%). Similarly, a 3-day application significantly reduced (p = 0.0001) the positive culture rate from 37 eyes (74%) to 17 eyes (34%). Two drops of povidone-iodi ne further reduced the positive culture rate for both groups to 20% (10 eyes for each group). There was no significant difference in positive culture rate between the 1-day and 3-day groups at T0 (p = 0.4689), T1 (p = 0.3074), T2 (p = 0.6706), or T3 (p = 1.000). C ONCLUSIONS. The application of topical 0.5% levofloxacin for 1 or 3 days significantly reduced the number of eyes with positive conjunctival cultures. The addition of 5% povidone-iodine further eliminated bacteria from the conjunctiva. The application of levofloxacin for 1 day appears to be as effective as a 3-day application. (Eur J Ophthalmol 2007; 17: 689-95)
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) acts intracellularly to cause the transdifferentiation of avian neural crest-derived Schwann cell precursors into melanocytes

We previously found that cultured neural crest-derived cells from embryonic quail peripheral nerves, which consist mostly of Schwann cell precursors, gave rise to melanocytes following treatment with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) or 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Here, we show that antisense deoxyoligonucleotides targeted against two regions of the bFGF mRNA transcript blocked this TPA-induced transdifferentiation of Schwann cell precursors. Neither sense nor scrambled antisense control oligonucleotides had any effect in this regard. TPA increased bFGF protein expression in cell lysates but not in conditioned media from these cultures, and this expression was localized to the nucleus and cytoplasm. Furthermore, bFGF-neutralizing antibodies and inositol-hexakisphosphate (InsP6) both inhibited pigmentation caused by exogenous bFGF, but had no affect on TPA-induced melanogenesis, suggesting that bFGF is not released by these cells. These data indicate that bFGF is necessary for the TPA-induced transdifferentiation of Schwann cell precursors into melanocytes and that bFGF acts via an intracrine mechanism.
Laser Machining Analysis

This chapter surveys many of the most important theoretical works in laser surface heating, drilling, cutting, grooving and three-dimensional machining found in recent literature which are based on an understanding of the physics of laser/material interaction. These process models are needed in order to choose correct operating parameters and to implement closed-loop process control. These works entail both analytical and numerical modelling to find relationships between operating parameters, temperature distribution and erosion front geometry. The phenomena occurring during laser machining processes, such as plasma formation, creation of striations, and changes in surface absorption of laser beam energy are also explained in a theoretical context.
Mittlere Schwingungsamplituden eines X2Y2-Molekülmodells mit C2h-Symmetrie: Anwendung auf dastrans-Difluordiazin

Es wurde eine Methode zur Berechnung der mittleren Schwingungsamplitudenquadrate fur das Modell einesX2Y2-Molekuls mit C2h-Symmetrie unter Verwendung von Symmetriekoordinaten entwickelt und analytische Ausdrucke fur die verschiedenen mittleren Amplitudenquadrat-Grosen in Termen der symmetrisierten Matrizen der mittleren Amplitudenquadrate abgeleitet. Diese Methode wurde zur Bestimmung der mittleren Schwingungsamplituden sowohl der gebundenen wie auch der nicht gebundenen Atompaare destrans-Difluordiazins bei 298°K aus beobachteten Raman- und Infrarotgrundschwingungsfrequenzen und Angaben zur Molekulstruktur angewendet. Daruber hinaus wurden die molaren Grosen der thermodynamischen Funktionen unter Annahme eines starren Rotator—harmonischen Oszillator-Modells fur den Temperaturbereich 200 bis 2000°K berechnet. Die Ergebnisse der Berechnungen werden kurz diskutiert.
Research ethics in The Union: an 8-year review of the Ethics Advisory Group.

The Ethics Advisory Group (EAG) of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) was established in 2004 with the mandate to provide ethical guidance on The Union’s research at national and international levels and to promote ethical standards in lung health services. Similar to other ethics committees, its role within The Union in research is to safeguard the dignity and rights of study participants and ensure that appropriate ethical standards are applied.1–3 Details of the activities and procedures of the EAG have been described elsewhere.4 The EAG consists of six members from several countries (current members are in Africa, Asia, North America and Australia), each with different professional backgrounds, and all with extensive experience in health and social care and systems. They meet once a year during the Union Conference on World Lung Health, and conduct reviews by e-mail and by tele-conferencing if needed. Updates in bioethics and research ethics are organised regularly and relevant papers are circulated among members. The EAG reviews every research protocol in which a Union staff member or consultant is the principal researcher, an intended co-author or a named collaborator, or if The Union funds or sponsors the study. Through a formal application process, the EAG evaluates the societal value of the study; methods used (poor science is unethical); informed consent procedures and forms; risks to participants; confidentiality of participant and record information; the involvement of local communities, local researchers and local health services; local ethics committee approval; and plans for disseminating study results. Studies involving record reviews and existing data without the direct involvement of human subjects are reviewed by the EAG through an expedited procedure by the Chairperson or designate. All other studies are reviewed by the full committee. If the EAG has concerns and suggestions about ethical issues, these are communicated to the applicants and approval provided when the necessary revisions to the study protocols are made. Approvals for record review studies generally take a few days, for other reviews up to 2 weeks. The objective of this article is to describe applications for ethics review of protocols made to the EAG in the 8-year period from 2005 to 2012 in terms of 1) annual numbers, 2) the Union departments in which the proposals originated, 3) regions and countries where studies were to be conducted, 4) topics to be studied, 5) study designs, 6) problems encountered by the EAG, and 7) review outcomes.
A Simulation Environment for Individual Blade Control Helicopters

®for the analysis of individual blade controlled helicopter dynamics and the design of fault tolerant control laws for this configuration. The environment includes the dynamics of a Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter fitted with individual blade actuators for full authority and modeling of several types of actuator failure. The implementation of a conventional swashplate configuration allows the comparative analysis of the performance of the conventional swashplate configuration versus individually-controlled blades under failure conditions. Nomenclature α Y = Blade segment angle of attack α TRANS = Transformed blade segment angle of attack Ω T = Nominal rotor speed Θ ,Φ ,Ψ = Euler angles γ = Yaw angle for the airspeed over a given blade segment θblade = Total blade angle due to inputs θ0 = Blade input due to collective θtwist = Blade input due to blade twist θfail = Blade input due to the Individual Blade Control θvs
T84 cells: anion selectivity demonstrates expression of Cl- conductance affected in cystic fibrosis.

The T84 cell line possesses an adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)-activated Cl- conductance and expresses high levels of the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene product, implicating it as a good model for CF research. To evaluate whether T84 Cl- conductance properties are consistent with those described in CF target epithelial, we used transepithelial measurements (verified by selective permeabilization of the basal membrane) to determine the apparent anion selectivity properties of the apical and basolateral membranes of stimulated and unstimulated T84 cells. Unstimulated epithelial cells were almost electrically inert, having a low transepithelial voltage (Vt; -6 mV, apical surface negative), a small equivalent short-circuit current (Isc,(eq.) 2.2 microA/cm2), a very high transepithelial resistance (Rt; 2,500 omega.cm2), and poor anion permselectivity properties at both membrane surfaces (0.8 less than PX/PCl- less than 1.1), where X is NO3-, Br-, I-, or gluconate. When stimulated with forskolin (10(-6) M), Vt increased 8-fold, Isc(eq) increased 30-fold, Rt fell to one-third of unstimulated values, and the apical surface became highly anion selective, i.e., NO3- (1.4) greater than Br- (1.2) greater than Cl- (1.0) greater than I- (0.7) greater than gluconate (0.0), where numbers in parentheses are PX/PCl-. I- was less permeable than Cl- and probably directly inhibits the anion conductance, since Rt was substantially greater after I- substitution than after substitution with the impermeable anion gluconate. Bumetanide (10(-4) M) significantly attenuated the response of Vt to anion substitutions at the basal membrane surface, indicating that the effects of substitution were predominantly on the Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl- cotransporter.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Carotid Surgery for Cerebral Ischemia

Changing concepts of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of strokes have led to the use of endarterectomy as a preventive measure, particularly in patients with transient ischemic attacks. Selection of patients, and diagnostic and surgical techniques are discussed.
Is It the Difference a Day Makes? Bereaved Caregivers' Perceptions of Short Hospice Enrollment

Abstract Context Hospice enrollment for less than one month has been considered too late by some caregivers and at the right time for others. Perceptions of the appropriate time for hospice enrollment in cancer are not well understood. Objectives The objectives of the study were to identify contributing factors of hospice utilization in cancer for ≤7 days, to describe and compare caregivers' perceptions of this as "too late" or at the "right time." Methods Semistructured, in-depth, in-person interviews were conducted with a sample subgroup of 45 bereaved caregivers of people who died from cancer within seven days of hospice enrollment. Interviews were transcribed and entered into Atlas.ti for coding. Data were grouped by participants' perceptions of the enrollment as "right time" or "too late." Results Overall, the mean length of enrollment was MLOE = 3.77 (SD = 1.8) days and ranged from three hours to seven days. The "right time" group (N = 25 [56%]) had a MLOE = 4.28 (SD = 1.7) days. The "too late" group (N = 20 [44%]) had a MLOE = 3.06 (SD = 1.03) days. The difference was statistically significant (P = 0.029). Precipitating factors included: late-stage diagnosis, continuing treatment, avoidance, inadequate preparation, and systems barriers. The "right time" experience was characterized by: perceived comfort, family needs were met, preparedness for death. The "too late" experience was characterized by perceived suffering, unprepared for death, and death was abrupt. Conclusion The findings suggest that one more day of hospice care may increase perceived comfort, symptom management, and decreased suffering and signal the need for rapid response protocols.