cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sign Detection Based Text Localization in Mobile Device Captured Scene Images

Sign text is one of the most seen text types appearing in scene images. In this paper, we present a new sign text localization method for scene images captured by mobile device. The candidate characters are first localized by detecting closed boundaries in the image. Then, based on the properties of signboard, the convex regions that contain enough candidate characters are extracted and marked as sign regions. After removing the false positives using the proposed layer analysis, the candidate characters inside the detected sign regions are yielded as sign text. A sign text database with 241 images captured by a mobile device was used to evaluate our method. The experimental results demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.
Irrigation in Regenerative Endodontic Procedures

The developing dentition is at risk for pulpal necrosis due to trauma and developmental dental anomalies such as dens evaginatus. Loss of an immature permanent tooth in young patients with mixed dentition can be devastating, leading to loss of function, malocclusion, and inadequate maxillofacial development. These teeth traditionally have been treated with apexification procedures using either long-term calcium hydroxide treatment or immediate placement of a mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) apical plug. Although these treatments often result in the resolution of signs and symptoms of pathosis, they provide little to no benefit for continued root development. Thus, immature teeth treated with these procedures are considered in a state of “arrested development,” and no further root growth, normal pulpal nociception, and immune defense should be expected.
Expression of Mammary Tumor Virus Proteins in Preneoplastic Outgrowth Lines and Mammary Tumors of BALB/cV Mice

A subline of BALB/c mice, designated BALB/cV, has been segregated which exhibits an intermediate mammary tumor incidence and which harbors a unique milk-transmitted virus. Six stable hyperplastic alveolar nodule outgrowth lines were established from chemical carcinogen-treated and hormonally stimulated mice. Tumor incidences exhibited by the individual preneoplastic lines ranged from 22 to 95%; no differences in tumor-producing capability were observed when lines were transplanted in virus-negative (BALB/c) or virus-positive (BALB/cV) animals. Viral antigen expression was monitored using antisera prepared against C3H mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) proteins. The preneoplastic lines exhibited more virus antigenpositive cells in a peroxidase-antiperoxidase immunocytochemical assay than did primary tumors which arose from the hyperplastic alveolar nodule transplants. Analysis of BALB/cV preneoplastic and tumor tissue by metabolic labeling and by protein electroblotting methodologies revealed that viral precursor and structural proteins were expressed in both types of tissue; the polypeptides were similar in molecular weight to those encoded by exogenous MMTVs. These studies demonstrate that the coding capacity of the BALB/cV isolate of MMTV is similar to that of known MMTV isolates and that each of the BALB/cV structural polypeptides shares group-specific antigenic determinants with the analogous protein encoded by MMTV from the C3H mouse. The hyperplastic outgrowth lines established in the BALB/cV subline provide an additional system for the study of mammary tumorigenesis.
A robust large signal non-quasi-static MOSFET model for circuit simulation

This work introduces a surface-potential-based compact non-quasi-static (NQS) MOSFET model that solves the current continuity equation, works in all regions of MOSFET operation (including accumulation, depletion, and inversion regions) and can be implemented into SPICE-based circuit simulators. The new model is obtained by extending the previously reported spline-collocation method and has been implemented in Verilog-A code. The study of NQS effects in several important circuits is included and the model is verified by comparison with direct numerical solution of the continuity equation.
Gutgold, Nichola D. The Rhetoric of Supreme Court Women: From Obstacles to Options

The Rhetoric of the Supreme Court characterizes the institution as having “received little attention in the press and scant academic consideration for their communication styles and rhetorical stra...
Localized Weathering: Implications for Theoretical and Applied Studies

In situ quantification of localized weathering processes on basalt flows in New Mexico and Hawaii demonstrates that small-area factors can be more important than other more readily observable factors. Further, it demonstrates that the factorial concept of the Pope Boundary-Layer weathering model is partially solvable, that organic weathering can accentuate glass weathering (with implications for climate models and storage of nuclear waste), and that silica coatings are not a simple solution for the preservation of stone monuments. Enhancement of glass weathering by lichens on the McCartys flow, El Malpais National Monument, New Mexico, remains restricted to a half-millimeter directly underneath the lichen-covered surface. In contrast, although the inorganic rock coating of silica glaze reduces weathering directly underneath the coating by up to nine times rates found in uncoated locales, silica glaze can almost double variability in weathering along its margins.
Interactive Design and Verification: A Message Switching Network Example

Traditionally, program verification systems have inadequately supported the incremental aspects of designing and verifying programs. For example, they provide only minimal assistance in determining what previous work is affected by changes to specifications. Problems of this general nature arise frequently and pose difficult challenges for the user. This paper describes and illustrates how several such problems have been largely overcome by a recently developed program verification system.
A population-based analysis of contemporary patterns of care in younger men (<60 years old) with localized prostate cancer.

Purpose To analyze patterns of care in younger patients (<60 years old) with localized prostate cancer and to identify factors associated with selection of therapy using a large, population-based database.
“Mind the Gap: Using Derivatives Overlays to Hedge Pension Duration”: Author Response

This material comments on “Mind the Gap: Using Derivatives Overlays to Hedge Pension Duration”.
Study of EMIC wave excitation using direct ion measurements

With data from Van Allen Probes, we investigate electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave excitation using simultaneously observed ion distributions. Strong He band waves occurred while the spacecraft was moving through an enhanced density region. We extract from helium, oxygen, proton, and electron mass spectrometer measurement the velocity distributions of warm heavy ions as well as anisotropic energetic protons that drive wave growth through the ion cyclotron instability. Fitting the measured ion fluxes to multiple sinm-type distribution functions, we find that the observed ions make up about 15% of the total ions, but about 85% of them are still missing. By making legitimate estimates of the unseen cold (below ∼2 eV) ion composition from cutoff frequencies suggested by the observed wave spectrum, a series of linear instability analyses and hybrid simulations are carried out. The simulated waves generally vary as predicted by linear theory. They are more sensitive to the cold O+ concentration than the cold He+ concentration. Increasing the cold O+ concentration weakens the He band waves but enhances the O band waves. Finally, the exact cold ion composition is suggested to be in a range when the simulated wave spectrum best matches the observed one.
Bending analysis of thick bimodular laminates by higher-order individual-layer theory

Abstract The stress, deflection, and neutral-surface behaviour is investigated for cylindrical bending and rectangular plate bending of thick laminates of composite materials having soft transverse shear moduli and different elastic properties depending on whether the fibre-direction strains are tensile or compressive. The higher-order individual-layer laminate theory, previously developed by the present investigators, treats each layer separately using an independent higher-order displacement field. Numerical results for single-layer plates and laminates having all edges simply supported and subjected to sinusoidally distributed normal pressure are obtained and compared with results from Pagano's elasticity theory and other approximate plate theories. The predictions of the present theory show better agreement with the elasticity-theory results than any of the other approximate theories.
Nutritional problems and solutions for the modern health epidemic

Over the last few decades, the incidence and prevalence of chronic diseases – particularly obesity, diabetes, and cancer – has continued to rise, affecting hundreds of millions of people around the world. Since the 1980s, for instance, the incidence of diabetes in the United States has increased by 133% [1] , while worldwide obesity has more than doubled [2] . The growing threat of chronic diseases to global health calls for more effective measures to stop the health epidemic. To this end, the root causes must be addressed. Although many factors may be involved, ranging from genetics to lifestyle, chronic disease is very much a matter of disordered metabolism, which can be profoundly affected by the nutrients we eat. The association of chronic disease with nutrient metabolism points to the possibility of certain dietary or nutritional factors as underlying causes of today’s health epidemic. In my opinion, any dietary factors considered as the causes should satisfy two key criteria: (1) a shift (increase or decrease) in the intake of the particular nutrients correlates with an increase in the prevalence of chronic disease, and (2) the nutrients play a determining role in the key pathological processes, such as chronic low-grade inflammation and increased lipogenesis, that are the common mechanisms for chronic diseases. The Bellagio Report by Simopoulos et al. [3] and the latest update published in this issue [4] highlight two potential causes that may account for the upward trend of chronic disease incidence and prevalence during the last century. The first cause may be an increase in the dietary intake of omega-6 fatty acids and a decrease in the dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids. These changes in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid intake have dramatically shifted the omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in both our diet and bodies from the human evolutionary ratio of ∼ 1: 1 to the modern dietary ratio ranging from 10: 1 to 50: 1, due to the industrialization of agriculture, processed foods, grain-fed livestock, and the increased consumption of vegetable oils [5] . This shift in the omega-6/omega-3 ratio has profound implications on human health, as these two classes of essential fatty acids are key components of cellular Published online: March 4, 2015
CONSER's Aggregator Survey and the Work of the PCC Task Group

ABSTRACT The author presents the results of the December 1998 CONSER “Survey on Providing Access to Serial Titles within Aggregator Databases.” Major findings include 71% of respondents desiring to see full-text serial titles incorporated into the online catalog and nearly 75% interested in acquiring record sets. Also included are an analysis of the numerous survey comments received, strategies toward creating the necessary records and integrating them into OPACs, examples of aggregator analytic records, and other background information on the work of the Program for Cooperative Cataloging's Task Group on Journals in Aggregator Databases.1
Renocila Heterozota, a New Cymothoid Isopod, With Notes On Its Host, the Anemone Fish, Amphiprion Akallopisos, in the Seychelles

[Ein neuer cymothoider Isopode, Renocila heterozota, wird beschrieben. Er kommt auf der vorderen dorsalen Korperregion des Anemonenfisches, Amphiprion akallopisos, im Gebiet der Seychellen vor. Gewohnlich leben ein Weibchen und ein kleines Mannchen zusammen, und zwar meist auf der linken Seite des Wirtstieres. R. heterozota ist nicht auf Amphiprion-Populationen anderer Lokalitaten des Indischen und Pazifischen Ozeans festgestellt worden. Etwa 5% der bei den Seychellen beobachteten Amphiprion waren infiziert. Wie sein Wirtstier so wird auch R. heterozota durch Kontakt mit den Tentakeln der Anemone Radianthus ritteri nicht beeinflust. Eine erweiterte Diagnose von Renocila und ein Schlussel zu den 5 bekannten Arten wird vorgelegt., Ein neuer cymothoider Isopode, Renocila heterozota, wird beschrieben. Er kommt auf der vorderen dorsalen Korperregion des Anemonenfisches, Amphiprion akallopisos, im Gebiet der Seychellen vor. Gewohnlich leben ein Weibchen und ein kleines Mannchen zusammen, und zwar meist auf der linken Seite des Wirtstieres. R. heterozota ist nicht auf Amphiprion-Populationen anderer Lokalitaten des Indischen und Pazifischen Ozeans festgestellt worden. Etwa 5% der bei den Seychellen beobachteten Amphiprion waren infiziert. Wie sein Wirtstier so wird auch R. heterozota durch Kontakt mit den Tentakeln der Anemone Radianthus ritteri nicht beeinflust. Eine erweiterte Diagnose von Renocila und ein Schlussel zu den 5 bekannten Arten wird vorgelegt.]
Normal Standards for Amplitude of Ballistocardiograms Calibrated by Force

Normal standards for ballistocardiogram amplitude have been estimated by statistical methods from a series of 194 healthy men and women. The application of new knowledge of the genesis of ballistocardiograms has resulted in normnal standards with a smaller scatter than those previously formulated, and so the ability to detect cardiac abnormality has been correspondingly increased.
Investigation of the Binding of Isoform-Selective Inhibitors to Prostaglandin Endoperoxide Synthases Using Fluorescence Spectroscopy†

Prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase (PGHS) is a heme protein that catalyzes the committed step in prostaglandin and thromboxane biosynthesis. Two isoforms of PGHS exist, a constitutive form termed ...
Osteopontin and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Association: A Probable Gene-Gender Interaction

Osteopontin (SPP1) is an important bone matrix mediator found to have key roles in inflammation and immunity. SPP1 genetic polymorphisms and increased osteopontin protein levels have been reported to be associated with SLE in small patient collections. The present study evaluates association between SPP1 polymorphisms and SLE in a large cohort of 1141 unrelated SLE patients [707 European-American (EA) and 434 African-American (AA)], and 2009 unrelated controls (1309 EA and 700 AA). Population-based case-control association analyses were performed. To control for potential population stratification, admixture adjusted logistic regression, genomic control (GC), structured association (STRAT), and principal components analysis (PCA) were applied. Combined analysis of 2 ethnic groups, showed the minor allele of 2 SNPs (rs1126616T and rs9138C) significantly associated with higher risk of SLE in males (P = 0.0005, OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.28-2.33), but not in females. Indeed, significant gene-gender interactions in the 2 SNPs, rs1126772 and rs9138, were detected (P = 0.001 and P = 0.0006, respectively). Further, haplotype analysis identified rs1126616T-rs1126772A-rs9138C which demonstrated significant association with SLE in general (P = 0.02, OR = 1.30, 95%CI 1.08-1.57), especially in males (P = 0.0003, OR = 2.42, 95%CI 1.51-3.89). Subgroup analysis with single SNPs and haplotypes also identified a similar pattern of gender-specific association in AA and EA. GC, STRAT, and PCA results within each group showed consistent associations. Our data suggest SPP1 is associated with SLE, and this association is especially stronger in males. To our knowledge, this report serves as the first association of a specific autosomal gene with human male lupus.
The angular distribution of the isomeric ratio of the 197Au (p, pn) 196Au reaction with 400 MeV protons

Abstract The angular distribution of the isomeric ratio from the 197Au (p, pn) 196Au reaction has been radiochemically determined. The average 196mAu to 196gAu isomeric ratio is 0·18±0·06 and appears to be rather constant with respect to the laboratory recoil angle. This is interesting because the reaction mechanism has been postulated to change as a function of this recoil angle. It is therefore concluded that the two predominant mechanisms must give approximately the same isomeric ratio. A calculation of the isomeric ratio which assumes a clean knockout mechanism agrees rather closely with the experimental value. Another calculation which assumes the inelastic scattering followed by evaporation 3echanism indicates that the excited (p, pn′) nucleus is in a spin state which differs from the target nucleus by about 4·5 ℏ units.
Geostationary satellite link availability of airborne communication nodes

Satellite links are essential for an airborne communication node to maintain connectivity to the global information grid (GIG) infrastructure. Satellite links may not always be available due to the limited antenna scanning capability and the aircraft's maneuvering. Link outage can be alleviated by increasing the scanning capability, which may be realized by placing more antennas on the aircraft. This leads to several important questions in the system design: in order to keep the links highly available, how many antennas are needed? How much scanning capability of each antenna is required? And where should these antennas be installed on the aircraft? In this paper, we propose a novel analysis approach to address these issues. The analysis is based on the aircraft-centric geometric framework. The link availability is computed and averaged over all the aircraft locations, which are assumed uniformly distributed in the earth coverage footprint of a geostationary satellite. The analysis also provides guidelines to configure the antennas for the desired link availability
Electrochemical behavior of cationic complexes incorporated in clay coatings on graphite electrodes

Donnees de voltammetrie cyclique, en particulier, sur les reactions redox d'Os(bpy) 3 (ClO 4 ) 2 avec bpy=bipyridine-2',2, de Co(tpy) 2 Cl 2 avec tpy=terpyridine-2,2',2'', incorpores dans un revetement de montmorillonite sur une electrode de graphite
Serial immunologic studies in recipients of hepatic allografts

Abstract Thirty recipients of hepatic allografts had serial immunologic evaluations. Prior to transplant, patients had marked depression of lymphocyte subsets and impaired in vitro immunoglobulin synthesis, while phytohemagglutinin responsiveness was similar to that of controls. Following transplantation and introduction of cyclosporine and low-dose steriod therapy, there was a significant decline in both T cell subsets, but only the T4 population remained significantly depressed throughout the entire study period. The T4:T8 ratio in 5 patients who experienced acute rejection episodes was 1.4 ± 0.6 prior to transplant. It increased to a mean of 2.0 ± 0.6 by the time the diagnosis of rejection was made. By contrast, 12 subjects transplanted during a similar time period who did not demonstrate rejection had a T4:T8 ratio of 4.0 ± 3.9 prior to transplant which fell to 1.5 ± 0.6 ( P
Yield, quality and nitrogen fertilizer recovery of standard and semi-dwarf spring wheat as affected by sowing date and fertilizer rate

Because of environmental and economic constraints, we need to determine the effects of nitrogen fertilizer application on nutrient availability and fertilizer recovery, especially in regions of limited rainfall. This study was conducted to provide information on effects of N rate on yields and N recovery by standard and semi-dwarf spring wheats (Triticum aestivum L.) sown at two dates.Ammonium nitrate was applied to spring wheat at rates up to 272 kg N/ha each year for 4 consecutive years. Only grain was removed from the plot at harvest. Wheat types did not differ in grain yields, but these yields were significantly reduced in 2 of 4 years by late sowing. Average grain yields for late sowing were greatest at 34 kg N/ha, but yields for early sowing approached maximum at the 68 kg N for semi-dwarf wheat and 136 kg N/ha for the standard wheat.Semi-dwarf wheat was lower than standard wheat in grain and flour protein concentration and baking absorption. Late sowing (May 30) reduced test weights, flour yield and baking absorption, but increased wheat protein concentration as compared with early sowing (April 30). Leaching of fertilizer N below the 90 cm depth ranged from 152 to 378 kg/ha at the 272 kg N/ha/year rate, and was greater for the late than for the early sowing. Fertilizer N that could be accounted for averaged 87 and 82% for early and late seeding respectively. Water-use efficiency was reduced by late sowing.Soil-water extraction by wheat to the 120 cm depth was greater for high N rates.These 4-year results showed that semi-dwarf and standard wheats had only slight differences in total grain production. Also, for efficient use of applied fertilizer and available soil water, wheat should be sown in the spring as soon as soil and weather conditions permit.
Stability analysis of a rotating flexible system

We analyse here the equations of motion of a planar body consisting of a rigid body with attached flexible rod. These equations take the form of coupled ordinary and partial differential equations. We analyse the equations both with and without centrifugal stiffening effects. Using the ‘energy-momentum’ method, we analyse nonlinear stability of the equilibria in each case. We also analyse the Hamiltonian and Poisson bracket structure of the system as well as the energy-momentum map and associated relative equilibria.
Characteristics of children with asthma who are enrolled in a Head Start program.

Abstract Background Asthma is an increasing public health concern that disproportionally affects children. In 1998, the Centers for Disease Control identified children aged 0 to 4 years as the "driving force" behind climbing rates of asthma-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Despite the significant asthma burden in preschool children, few studies characterize this population. Objective This study identifies and characterizes children at risk for asthma who are enrolled in a local Head Start program. Methods Caregivers of 368 children aged 3 to 5 years who were identified by using an asthma survey were recruited. Data were collected on demographics, health care use and access, medication use, symptoms, and trigger exposure. Exposure to tobacco smoke was determined by urinary cotinine and allergen sensitization by skin prick test. Results At baseline, 64% of the children had more than 1 emergency department visit for asthma in their lifetime, whereas 31% had more than 1 visit in the previous 6 months. Caretakers reported smoking in 37% of households with cotinine exceeding 20 ng/mg in 27% of the sample. Twenty-one percent reported symptoms consistent with intermittent asthma, and 79% reported symptoms consistent with persistent asthma. Forty-five percent of the children reported nighttime symptoms more than 1 night per week. Seventy-one percent had positive test results for more than 1 allergen, and 42% had positive test results for more than 3 allergens. Only 32% of children with persistent asthma had both rescue and controller medications. Conclusion Children with asthma enrolled in a Head Start program have significant environmental tobacco smoke exposure, are highly atopic and symptomatic, and do not receive appropriate medication treatment. Overall, children in the study had poor asthma control. This high-risk group could benefit from case management programs.
Organophosphate poisoning-induced intermediate syndrome: can electrophysiological changes help predict outcome?

Cynthia Aaron discusses the possible clinical implications of a new study evaluating electrophysiological changes in a cohort of patients with organophosphate poisoning.
Sputtered thin films of Pb1−xSnxTe for potential infrared detector applications

Abstract Thin films of Pb1−xSnxTe were sputter deposited on amorphous substrates. Both their electrical as well as optical characteristics were studied. Deposition conditions which control the carrier type and density were identified. Carrier concentrations in the 1015 cm−3 range were achieved in unannealed films. D*BBS around 106 cm Hz 1 2 W−1 were observed in the photoconductive mode.
Faceted and Vertically Aligned GaN Nanorod Arrays Fabricated without Catalysts or Lithography

Monocrystalline, vertically aligned and faceted GaN nanorods with controlled diameter have been synthesized by selective organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) onto GaN exposed at the bottom of pores in silicon dioxide templates patterned by reactive ion etching through self-organized porous anodic alumina films. This process is free of foreign catalysts, and the nanorod diameter control is achieved without the need for low-throughput nanolithographic techniques. The use of conventional OMVPE growth conditions allows for the straightforward adaptation of conventional doping and heterostructure growth as will be necessary for the fabrication of nanorod-based strain-relaxed electrically pumped lasers and light-emitting diodes.
Cholesterol Esterase Stimulation by Luteinizing Hormone in Luteinized Rat Ovaries

Cholesterol esterase activity was measured in luteinized ovarian tissue from immature superovulated rats. Enzyme activity was determined from the rate of appearance of lmitic acid-l-14C, hydrolyzed from a cholesteryl pa lmitate-l-14C substrate during 30 min of incubation at 37 C. Direct proportionality of incubation time with hydrolysis and enzyme concentration with reaction velocity was established for the enzyme assay system. Esterase activity was present in all subcellular fractions but most enzyme activity was found in the 100,000 ×g defatted supernatant fraction. LH 10 ng), administered iv 1 hr before sacrifice, resulted in a highly significant (p <.001) increase esterase activity over saline-injected controls. suspension of 1500 ×g pellet from homogenized luteal tissue was incubated in the presence of ATP (1.7×10-3M), theophylline (10-3M) and LH or saline; the supernatant fractions from these incubations when added to the usual 100,000 ×g supernatant fraction produced no differences in esterase acti...
Low-energy X-ray Spectra of Sco X –1 and Four Sagittarius Sources

Low energy X ray spectra of Sco X-1 and Sagittarius sources measured by Be and Al window proportional counters during rocket flight
Acute toxicity of nitrite to larvae of the giant Malaysian prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Abstract Static bioassays of up to 8 days duration were performed on 10–14-day-old larvae ranging in weight from 80 to 140 μ g/larva. The 24-, 96- and 192-h LC 50 values were 130, 8.6 and 4.5 mg NO 2 -N/l respectively. The highest concentrations of nitrite in which no mortality occurred were 9.7 and 1.4 mg/l in a 24- and 168-h period. There was a significant difference in weight of control larvae compared with those exposed to 1.8 mg/l for 8 days.
Maternal plasma corticotropin-releasing hormone associated with stress at 20 weeks’ gestation in pregnancies ending in preterm delivery

Abstract Objective: This study tested the hypothesis that maternal stress is associated with elevated maternal levels of corticotropin releasing hormone and activation of the placental-adrenal axis before preterm birth. Study Design: In a behavior in pregnancy study, 524 ethnically and socioeconomically diverse women were followed up prospectively and evaluated at 3 gestational ages: 18 to 20 weeks, 28 to 30 weeks, and 35 to 36 weeks. Maternal variables included demographic data, medical conditions, perceived stress level, and state anxiety. Maternal plasma samples were collected at each gestational age. Eighteen case patients with spontaneous onset of preterm labor were matched against 18 control subjects who were delivered at term, and their samples were assayed for corticotropin-releasing hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and cortisol by means of radioimmunoassay. Statistical tests were used to examine mean differences in these hormones. In addition, the relationship between stress level and each hormone was tested with a Pearson correlation coefficient and hierarchic multiple regressions in each group. Results: Patients who had preterm delivery had significantly higher plasma corticotropin-releasing hormone levels than did control subjects at all 3 gestational ages ( P P P P Conclusion: Maternal plasma levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone are significantly elevated at as early as 18 to 20 weeks' gestation in women who are subsequently delivered preterm. Changes in corticotropin-releasing hormone between 18 to 20 weeks' gestation and 28 to 30 weeks' gestation are associated with maternal age and stress level at 18 to 20 weeks' gestation. Maternal stress and corticotropin-releasing hormone levels may be potential markers for the patient at risk for preterm birth. Activation of the placental maternal pituitary-adrenal axis is consistent with the classic endocrine response to stress. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1999;180:S257-63.)
Penile Prosthetic Surgery for Peyronie's Disease: Defining the Need for Intraoperative Adjuvant Maneuvers

ABSTRACT Introduction There are a number of accepted approaches to the patient with Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction (ED), including penile prosthesis surgery. During prosthesis surgery for Peyronie's disease some men are left with residual curvature upon maximum device inflation. This analysis was undertaken to define how often and in which patients, intra‐operative adjuvant maneuvers are required. Methods Men undergoing penile prosthesis surgery for combined Peyronie's disease/ED constituted the study population. Residual curvature >10° was deemed to warrant the use of a secondary maneuver to correct curvature. In this analysis, plaque release incisions were utilized and grafting was performed only if there was overt exposure of the prosthesis. Results 36 men were included in the analysis. All patients with preoperative curvatures ≤30° had complete resolution of the penile curvature with full inflation of the prosthesis alone. Of patients who had >45° curvature preoperatively, 86% needed plaque incision to achieve adequate penile straightening. Grafting was required in only 5.5% patients and both of these patients had preoperative curvature >60°. Conclusions In 61% of patients with combined Peyronie's disease/ED in this study, the placement of a three‐piece inflatable penile prosthesis alone corrected the penile curvature. 86% of patients requiring plaque incision had preoperative curvatures >45°. This information should enable surgeons to plan such operations more effectively and to counsel patients more comprehensively prior to operative intervention.
Nanopatterned quantum dot active region lasers on InP substrates

We employ an alternate approach to Stranski-Krastanow (SK) QD formation involving the use of nanopatterning with diblock copolymers combined with selective MOCVD growth, enabling QD formation over large surface areas intended for device application. This approach allows for increased control over the QD size and distribution and elimination of the problematic wetting layer associated with SK QDs. Cross-sectional TEM studies of the nanopatterned QD active regions confirm the absence of a wetting layer, and AFM/SEM measurements indicate high QD densities are achieved (>6x10 10 cm -2 ). Furthermore, the process is applicable to large surface coverage, showing promise for implementation into long wavelength (λ = 1.3-1.5μm) sources employing either lattice-matched or strained QDs. Preliminary device results demonstrate LT (up to 170K) InP-based laser operation from devices employing patterned lattice-matched InxGa1- xAs QD (~ 20 nm dia.) active regions. The formation of high density compressively strained InAs QDs on InP substrates is also demonstrated using the nanopatterning and selective growth process.
Intraoperative myocardial protection: a comparison of blood and asanguineous cardioplegia.

Abstract Cardiac arrest was achieved in 84 patients using asanguineous cardioplegia and in 97 patients using cold blood potassium cardioplegia. The patient groups were similar in age, sex ratio, and preoperative risk factors. Other than the cardioplegic solution used, the conduct of each operation was identical. There were no differences in mean total pump time (118 minutes for the asanguineous cardioplegia group versus 117 minutes for the cold blood cardioplegia group) or cross-clamp time (73.5 versus 70 minutes, respectively). However, the blood cardioplegia group had a greater number of distal anastomoses per patient (3.9 versus 3.7; p 2 ), 38 of 84 patients given asanguineous cardioplegia versus 25 of 97 patients given blood cardioplegia required inotropic support up to 24 hours postoperatively ( p p
Naloxone inhibits and morphine potentiates the adrenal steroidogenic response to ACTH

The administration of morphine to hypophysectomized rats potentiated the steroidogenic response of the adrenal cortex to exogenous adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) in a dose-dependent fashion. Conversely, the opiate antagonist naloxone inhibited the adrenal response to ACTH. Naloxone pretreatment also antagonized the potentiating effect of morphine on ACTH-induced steroidogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Neither morphine nor naloxone, administered to hypophysectomized rats, had any direct effect on adrenal steroidogenesis. These adrenal actions were stereospecific since neither the (+)-stereoisomer of morphine, nor that or naloxone, had any effect on the adrenal response to ACTH. The administration of human beta-endorphin to hypophysectomized rats had no effect on the adrenal corticosterone concentration nor did it alter the response of the adrenal gland to ACTH. These results indicate that morphine can potentiate the action of ACTH on the adrenal by a direct, stereospecific, dose-dependent mechanism that is prevented by naloxone pretreatment and which may involve competition for ACTH receptors on the corticosterone-secreting cells of the adrenal cortex.
Interview: Progress and promise in the therapy of lung cancers

Dr Mark Kris* speaks to Marco De Ambrogi, Commissioning Editor: Dr Mark Kris is currently serving as William and Joy Ruane Chair in Thoracic Oncology at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center (NY, USA), where he has been on the staff since 1983. He also is a Professor of Medicine at the Weill Cornell Medical College (NY, USA). After serving as Chief of the Thoracic Oncology Service at MSK Cancer Center since 1990, Dr Kris has recently been named Lead Physician for the MSK–IBM Watson Collaboration. He specializes in thoracic malignancies including lung cancer, thymoma and cancers of an unknown primary site. His research interests include targeted therapies for lung cancer, multimodality therapy, the development of new anticancer drugs and symptom management with a focus on preventing emesis, the most dreaded side effect of cancer and cancer treatment. Dr Kris received his medical degree from Cornell University Medical College, completed residencies at the New York Hospital Cornell Medical Center/...
Borehole stresses created by downhole seismic sources

This paper analyzes the stresses created by downhole acoustic sources used for crosshole or reverse VSP data acquisition. The pressures created by downhole sources may be as large as p1∼70 bars which cannot affect intact steel casing. However, such pressures might in principle either (A) crack the cement radially through excessive hoop stress pH, or (B) loosen the cement from the casing through an excessive value of shear stress prz.
A decade of change—risk profiles and outcomes for isolated coronary artery bypass grafting procedures, 1990–1999: a report from the STS National Database Committee and the Duke Clinical Research Institute

Abstract Background . The Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Adult Cardiac Database is the largest voluntary clinical database in medicine. Using this database we examined changes in the risk profile of patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and their outcomes during the decade 1990 to 1999. Methods . Trends in 23 preoperative risk factors were tracked for CABG cases during this decade. Using a multivariate logistic risk model, we also determined the degree to which operative risk and risk-adjusted operative mortality changed during this 10-year interval. Results . Between 1990 and 1999, 1,154,486 patient records were harvested by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Adult Cardiac Database for isolated CABG procedures performed at 522 Society of Thoracic Surgeons participant sites in the United States and Canada. Over time, CABG patients were more likely to be older (mean age 63.7 in 1990, 65.1 in 1999), of female gender (25.7% women in 1990, 28.7% in 1999), and have a history of smoking, diabetes mellitus, renal failure, hypertension, stroke, chronic lung disease, New York Heart Association functional class IV, and three-vessel disease ( p p Conclusions . Patients referred for isolated CABG are significantly older, sicker, and have a higher risk than a decade ago. Despite this, CABG mortality rates have declined substantially. These results highlight the excellent progress in the care of CABG patients achieved during the past decade.
Differential accumulation of four phaseolin glycoforms in transgenic tobacco.

An intron-less phaseolin gene [15] was used to express phaseolin polypeptides in transgenic tobacco plants. The corresponding amounts of phaseolin immunoreactive polypeptides and mRNA were similar to those found in plants transformed with a bean genomic DNA sequence that encodes an identical β-phaseolin subunit. These results justified the use of the intron-less gene for engineering of the phaseolin protein by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis. Each and both of the two Asn residues that serve as glycan acceptors in wild-type phaseolin were modified to prevent N-linked glycosylation. Wild-type (βwti−) and mutant phaseolin glycoforms (βdgly 1, βdgly 2 and βdgly 1,2) were localized to the protein body matrix by immunogold microscopy. Although quantitative slot-blot hybridization analysis showed similar levels of phaseolin mRNA in transgenic seed derived from all constructs, seed from the βdgly 1 and βdgly 2 mutations contained only 41% and 73% of that expressed from the wild-type control; even less (23%) was present in seed of plants transformed with the phaseolin βdgly 1,2 gene. Additionally, the profile of 25–29 kDa processed peptides was different for each of the glycoforms, indicating that processing of the full-length phaseolin polypeptides was modified. Thus, although targeting of phaseolin to the protein body was not eliminated by removal of the glycan side-chains, decreased accumulation and stability of the full-length phaseolin protein in transgenic tobacco seed were evident.
Double-Layer Capacitance of Carbide Derived Carbons in Sulfuric Acid

Nanoporous carbons obtained by selective leaching of Ti and Al from Ti2AlC, as well as B from B4C, were investigated as electrode materials in electric double-layer capacitors. Cyclic voltammetry tests were conducted in 1 M H2SO4 from 0-250 mV on carbons synthesized at 600, 800, 1000, and 1200°C. Results show that the structure and pore sizes can be tailored and that the optimal synthesis temperature is 1000°C. Specific capacitances for Ti2AlC CDCs and B4C CDCs were 175 and 147 F/g, respectively, compared to multiwall carbon nanotubes and two types of activated carbon, measured herein to be 15, 52, and 125 F/g, respectively. © 2005 The Electrochemical Society. @DOI: 10.1149/1.1921134# All rights reserved.
Endless versatility in the biotechnological applications of Kluyveromyces LAC genes

Most microorganisms adapted to life in milk owe their ability to thrive in this habitat to the evolution of mechanisms for the use of the most abundant sugar present on it, lactose, as a carbon source. Because of their lactose-assimilating ability, Kluyveromyces yeasts have long been used in industrial processes involved in the elimination of this sugar. The identification of the genes conferring Kluyveromyces with a system for permeabilization and intracellular hydrolysis of lactose (LAC genes), along with the current possibilities for their transfer into alternative organisms through genetic engineering, has significantly broadened the industrial profitability of lactic yeasts. This review provides an updated overview of the general properties of Kluyveromyces LAC genes, and the multiple techniques involving their biotechnological utilization. Emphasis is also made on the potential that some of the latest technologies, such as the generation of transgenics, will have for a further benefit in the use of these and related genes.
Electrical resistivity and radiation damage in boro-hydro-nitride X-ray lithography mask substrates

Abstract The dc electrical resistivity of LPCVD boro-hydro-nitride films was measured for various film deposition parameters, and was found to be directly related to the optical transparency as well as the mechanical stress of the x-ray mask membranes prepared from these films. The influence of the film's hydrogen and boron content on electrical resistivity is also being reported. Experimental results describe the effect of x-ray radiation on the film's chemical composition, Young's modulus and electrical resistivity. Radiation effects relevant to x-ray lithography, which are mechanical distortion and optical transparency of the mask membranes prepared from those films, are also described. Experimental evidence suggests that the radiation damage relevant to x-ray lithography in the mask membranes is directly related to their initial electrical resistivity (measured before irradiation).
Communication in young children with fragile X syndrome: a qualitative study of mothers' perspectives.

Purpose To provide descriptive and qualitative information about communication in young children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and about how families react to and accommodate communication differen...
Axon Regeneration: Electrical Silencing Is a Condition for Regrowth

A recent study in primary sensory neurons shows that electrical activity--mediated through L-type voltage-gated calcium channels--could suppress axon growth after injury.
Sensory-Perceptual Factors in Reaction Time in Relation to Age

(1972). Sensory-Perceptual Factors in Reaction Time in Relation to Age. The Journal of Genetic Psychology: Vol. 121, No. 2, pp. 173-177.
A Friedländer approach to novel 1,10-phenanthrolines and their use as ligands for Ru(II) and Cu(I)

Abstract A six step synthesis of 8-amino-7-quinolinecarbaldehyde from 8-hydroxyquinoline has been developed. This aminoaldehyde undergoes Friedlander condensation with ketones to form 2-substituted 1,10-phenanthrolines and 1,2-diketones to form 2,2′-bi-(1.10-phenanthroline)s. A tetramethylene derivative of the latter class of compounds forms a helical dinuclear complex with Cu(I).
COLdb, a database linking genetic data to molecular function in fibrillar collagens

Fibrillar collagens are ubiquitous proteins essential for the structural integrity of bones, skin, blood vessels, and other tissues. Mutations in collagen genes result in disorders including osteogenesis imperfecta, chondrodysplasias, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, but the molecular basis for the heterogeneity of clinical phenotypes is not well understood. A more complete understanding of the relationship between sequence and phenotype requires synthesis of multiple facets of collagen structure and function. To facilitate such an analysis, we developed COLdb, a freely available database integrating collagen biological and physicochemical properties with known variants. A Web-based, interactive, graphical user interface displays the data as annotations on the collagen protein sequences. Collagen gene-level data are provided as custom tracks for display in the UCSC genome browser. COLdb currently includes 35,582 data points spanning collagen types I, II, and III, and, importantly, users can add their own data to the display. The database is the first comprehensive integration of disparate functional information on the three major fibrillar collagens, and the first electronic collection of mutations in the COL2A1 gene.
Exact decomposition of a Gaussian-averaged nonlinear function.

We derive an exact formula for the decomposition of Gaussian spatially averaged experimental data. The true nonlinear functional dependence of a physical parameter on the local light intensity can be obtained.
Stable and metastable phase equilibria and reactions in the SiO2-αAl2O3 system

Abstract Procedures in the preparation of specimens in this system are critical due to the difficulty of nucleating αAl2O3 when the silicate liquid is not saturated with Al2O3 even though it may be supersaturated relative to crystalline αAl2O3, and the ease with which mullite growing from an alumino-silicate melt during cooling accomodates an excess of Al2O3. Metastable phase compositions and microstructures occur commonly. As a result, misinterpretations of experimental data have occurred in published reports. Stable and metastable phase equioibria diagrams in the αAl2O3SiO2 system are presented.
Particle-size effects in single-electron tunnel systems

It is seen that in single-electron systems with finite-size particle distributions there is a direct correlation between a given distribution and its single-electron conductance peak spacing. In this paper we discuss the geometry, capacitance, and size distribution of particles in single-electron tunnel systems, the latter two as manifest in their tunneling characteristics.
Hybrid extreme point tabu search

Abstract We develop a new hybrid tabu search method for optimizing a continuous differentiable function over the extreme points of a polyhedron. The method combines extreme point tabu search (EPTS) with traditional descent algorithms based on linear programming. The tabu search algorithm utilizes both recency-based and frequency-based memory and oscillates between local improvement and diversification phases. The hybrid algorithm iterates between using a descent algorithm to find a local minimum and tabu search to improve locally and then move to a new area of the search space. The descent algorithm acts as a form of intensification within the tabu search. This algorithm can be used on many important classes of problems in global optimization including bilinear programming, multilinear programming, multiplicative programming, concave minimization, and complementarity problems. The algorithm is applied to two practical problems: the quasistatie multi-rigid-body contact problem (QCP) in robotics and the global tree optimization (GTO) problem in machine learning. We perform computational experiments on problems of significant real world dimensions: the smallest machine learning problem tested has on the order of 10485 extreme points. The results show our method obtains high quality solutions both by comparison with the embedded descent algorithm and by comparison to a version of tabu search that does not make use of descent.