cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrorheological material based non-homogeneous adaptive beams

In this study, the semi-active vibration control capabilities of electrorheological (ER) material based axially non-homogeneous adaptive beams were investigated. The adaptive nature of such beams was achieved by controlling the pre-yield rheology of ER material in response to varying applied electric field levels. The beams focused on were designed in a way that can allow for independent control of the electric field levels applied to four sections of the beam. The cross-sectional configuration was based on sandwiching of the ER material between the elastic faceplates. Controllability of the four sections was achieved by selectively coating electrically non-conductive elastic faceplates with a conductive material. Narrow insulated regions were left between adjacent adaptive sections. A vibration model was developed based on thin-plate theory, and the transverse continuous vibration response of the non-homogeneous ER adaptive beam was studied. The developed model was applied to each region of the axially non-homogeneous beam separately. Continuity in the response of the overall structure was achieved by appropriate coupling of the adjacent regions. The resulting analytical model was able to predict the structural vibration response in the forms of natural frequencies, mode shapes, loss factors and the transverse vibration response at any location on the beam surface as functions of excitation frequency and applied electric field levels. Vibration control capacity of the ER adaptive beam was illustrated by emphasizing mode shape control. The structure was subjected to on and off position electric field configurations at each section. The `on' state was defined as an applied electric field of 3.5 kV and the `off' state was actually 0.5 kV . Based on the on/off conditions at each section, various electric configurations were selected for the overall adaptive beam. Variations in the mode shape amplitude and geometry were studied for the selected electric field configurations. Natural frequencies and loss factors of the structure were predicted for each configuration. Controllability of the non-homogeneous ER adaptive beam was observed.
Healing of polytetrafluoroethylene arterial grafts is influenced by graft porosity

Abstract The importance of porosity in synthetic arterial graft healing has not been adequately defined. To determine the effect of porosity on graft healing, we measured the extent of cellular response at late times in 4 mm internal diameter polytetrafluoroethylene grafts of varying porosity (between 10 and 90 μm internodal distance) inserted into the arterial system of baboons. After 1 and 3 months the grafts were retrieved and examined for endothelial coverage, intimal thickening, and endothelial cell and smooth muscle cell proliferation. The pattern of intimal healing with endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells was only related to porosity in the sense that there was an abrupt switch in the pattern of healing as porosity was increased from 30 to 60 μm. In low porosity grafts (10 and 30 μm internodal distances) endothelial coverage of the luminal surface was incomplete and, along with intimal thickening, was limited to graft near the anastomosis. In high porosity grafts (60 and 90 μm internodal distances) luminal endothelial coverage was complete, and intimal thickening was uniformly distributed throughout the graft. The highest porosity graft studied (90 μm) developed areas of focal loss of endothelial cells at late time periods. In this limited series there does appear to be an optimal porosity for polytetrafluoroethylene grafts near 60 μm, since 10 and 30 μm grafts fail to achieve luminal endothelial cell coverage, and 90 μm grafts exhibit instability of the intima with focal endothelial cell loss. (J VASC SURG 1990;11:838-45.)
COMPUTATION OF THE INITIALLY UNKNOWN BOUNDARIES OF FLOW FIELDS GENERATED BY LOCAL EXHAUST HOODS

Local exhaust hoods are important in controlling contaminants in the workplace. To predict hood effectiveness, it is important to have knowledge of the airflow field that it generates. Currently, there are theoretical models adequate for predicting the flow fields of hoods with flanged openings. These models are solutions of Laplace's equation in terms of the velocity potential. Comparison of experimental and theoretical values of air velocities show good agreement. With the exception of the plain slot, no such models are available for plain hoods or other hoods with complex geometries. This paper explores the feasibility of approximating the equal air velocity contours for any local exhaust hood by assuming that these contours are also equipotential contours. A slot configuration, for which an analytical model is available, was used to evaluate the accuracy of the assumption. Starting with a good approximation for the 15% velocity contour, three other boundaries were generated. The procedure used in gene...
The Genesis of Bilaterality Among Two Divisions of Chippewa1

IN THE literature on culture change in North America there is extensive material describing movement from unilineal to bilateral forms of social organization. Siouan, Algonkian and Candoan tribes of the MississippiMissouri valley and Muskogeans and Iroquoians in the southeast have been described by Eggan, Spoehr and others as gravitating to bilateral forms in kinship and social structure. On the Plains where the bilateral band became in almost all tribes the most effective unit of social organization, there have been posited earlier unilineal structures on the basis of analysis of kinship terms and of historical and ecological factors. In the Southwest and Northwest unilineal organization has been weakened during historical times (Eggan 1937; 1950:241-242, 316-317; 1955 503ff; Spoehr 1947; Driver 1961:308, 315, 601). Even in areas long thought to have been characterized by bilateral norms, the Basin and the Arctic, recent research has developed an opposing theory, namely, that in precontact times the units of social organization were unilineal descent groups. Service, on the basis of statements by Jenness, Stefansson and others, as well as his own research in early sources, has presented compelling arguments for the prior existence of patrilocal band groups among the Shoshone and the Eskimo. Service attributes the fragmental family organization of recent times to shrinkage of population and resources in both areas and, in the Basin, the location of horseless groups in refuge areas into which they were driven by congeners fortunate enough to have obtained horses (1962:94-107; 1963:76). Service also questions the aboriginality of composite bands among sub-arctic Algonkians and Athabascans among others, and cites recent ethnohistorical studies to indicate that forms structured on
Mini-flank supra-11th rib incision for open partial or radical nephrectomy.

Authors from New York describe their experience with a supra-11th rib mini-flank incision as a practical alternative to traditional open or laparoscopic nephrectomy. They used a small 8-cm incision and found that it did not compromise cancer, and gave excellent cosmetic results. OBJECTIVE To report our approach to partial (PN) or radical nephrectomy (RN) using a supra-11th mini-flank incision, as the widespread availability of advanced imaging has increased the detection of incidental, lower-stage renal tumours that are generally amenable to resection using smaller incisions. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included 167 consecutive patients undergoing PN/RN for renal tumours treated between February 2000 and March 2003 using the supra-11th rib mini-flank approach. Variables analysed were age, gender, nephrectomy type (PN vs RN), operative duration, estimated blood loss (EBL), hospital stay, tumour size and location, pathological stage and histology, perioperative transfusions, and complications. Patients undergoing PN were examined for ischaemia type (cold, warm, none) and duration of renal artery clamping. The interval after surgery to initiate solid diet and discontinue patient-controlled analgesia, and overall pain control, were analysed and compared between PN and RN. RESULTS In all, 133 patients (80%) underwent PN and 34 (20%) RN, at a median age of 61.7 years. The median operative duration was 2.9 h, the EBL 400 mL, tumour size 3.2 cm and median hospital stay 5 days. At a median follow-up of 18.2 months, there were seven (4%) late complications: six patients had a flank bulge and one had a reducible hernia. Surgical margins were negative in 164 (98%) patients. CONCLUSIONS The supra-11th rib mini-flank incision offers a practical alternative to traditional open or laparoscopic PN or RN. Using a small (8 cm) incision with no rib resection, this approach affords optimum exposure without compromising cancer control, with excellent cosmetic results and a lower risk of late complications at the wound site.
On Nuclear Quadrupole Moments

The correction to nuclear quadrupole moments on account of the quadrupole moment induced in the electron shells has been obtained by solving the Schroedinger equation for the perturbed core wave functions for Li, Al, and Cl. The correction factor by which the average $〈\frac{1}{{r}^{3}}〉$ over the valence electron function in the equation for the quadrupole coupling should be multiplied to take account of the induced effect is 1.11, 0.83, and 0.68, respectively. The previously described Thomas-Fermi calculation of this effect has been carried out for 13 additional elements.
Deforestation and its effects on forest-nesting birds in the Florida Keys.

Uplands in the upper Florida Keys are covered by a tropical, seasonal deciduous forest containing many plant species found nowhere else in the continental United States. Before European settlement there were 4816 ha of seasonal deciduous forest in the keys. By 1991 the extent of this seasonal deciduous forest had decreased by 41%, the number of fragments increased by an order of magnitude, and the acreage in large fragments decreased by 84%. To examine the effects of fragment size on the presence of breeding birds, we censused bird populations of singing males that occurred in 27 forests that ranged in size from 0.2 ha to more than 100 ha. We also examined the occurrence of forest-breeding species at road-stop census points relative to nine measures of habitat around these points. Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis) and Black-whiskered Vireos (Vireo altiloquus) were found singing in virtually all fragments. The distribution of Red-bellied Woodpeckers (Melanerpes carolinus) occurred independently of the size of forest fragments but was positively correlated with other measures of forest area. Great Crested Flycatchers (Myiarchus crinitus) occurred independently of fragment size and showed no correlations with other measures of habitat. White-eyed Vireos (V. griseus) were not present in fragments smaller than 2.3 ha. Northern Flickers (Colaptes auratus) were not present in fragments smaller than 3.5 ha, but their numbers showed the highest positive correlations with the percentage of area in lawns and were negatively correlated with measures of total forest area. Yellow-billed (Coccyzus americanus) and Mangrove (C. minor) Cuckoos were absent from fragments smaller than 7.5 ha and 12.8 ha, respectively. the effective habitat loss for the four “area-sensitive” species exceeds the actual loss of deciduous forest. To maintain viable populations of species native to the seasonal deciduous forests of the Florida Keys will require protection of additional acreage of upland habitat from deforestation. A network of reserves that maintains dispersal possibilities among the remaining larger forest fragments is crucial.
Effect of NaCl and mannitol on plasma membrane proteins in corn roots

The short-term effects of NaCl and mannitol stress on plasma membrane (PM) polypeptides from corn roots (Zea mays L.) were determined using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis following radiolabeled amino acid incorporation. After 2.5 hours, both stress treatments altered synthesis of several polypeptides. Changes included up-regulation of some polypeptides with concomitant down-regulation of others. Some changes were unique to the stress treatment while others were common to both NaCl and mannitol. No new polypeptides appeared in either case. Pulse-chase experiments following 0.5-hours and 2.5-hours incubation periods with radiolabeled amino acids did not reveal differences in turnover of PM polypeptides. The results support the contention that altered synthesis of PM proteins under stress may contribute to the alteration of membrane function.
Latin American Constitutions: Nominal and Real

IF THE DRAFTING of democratic constitutions serves as preparation for practice in the art of popular government then, indeed, Latin Americans are well prepared. Since gaining independence the twenty republics have essayed a grand total of 1861 magna cartae, or an average of 9.3 each. A breakdown per country reveals the following: Argentina 4; Bolivia 14; Brazil 5; Chile 7; Colombia 6; Costa Rica 7; Cuba 2; Dominican Republic 22; Ecuador 16; El Salvador 10; Guatemala 5; Haiti 18; Honduras 10; Mexico 5; Nicaragua 8; Panama 3; Paraguay 4; Peru 12; Uruguay 4; and Venezuela 24. Today thirteen of the Latin American republics are governed by constitutions adopted since 1940, and only two antedate World War J.2 There seems to be no end to constitution making. This points up an anomaly: on the one hand apparent devotion to constitutionalism as a cure for national problems, and on the other, lack of respect for constitutional mandates. Nowhere are constitutions more elaborate and less observed. Politically, Latin Americans seem to be unqualified optimists, for the long succession of constitutional failures has never dampened hopes that the perfect constitution-a cure-all for national ills-will be discovered eventually.
'Life' not critical?

SIR - Bak et al. have presented evidence that the cellular automaton, the 'game of life', develops into a self-organized critical state, characterized by a D(T)^(-1.6) distribution of times T required for the lattice to return to equilibrium following a random single-site perturbation. This power law implies an infinite expected equilibration time .
Using X-Ray Absorption to Assess Moisture Movement in Cement-Based Materials

This paper discusses the use of x-ray absorption as a technique for measuring fluid transport in cementitious systems. First, the paper describes how a material’s x-ray attenuation spectrum can be combined with composite modeling concepts to determine the extent of moisture movement (wetting or drying) that can be measured in cementitious systems. Second, the paper discusses the influence of beam power (voltage and current) and camera integration time on the variation in the measured x-ray intensity. Third, the paper discusses two devices for measuring the transmitted x-ray intensity (camera and detector) to describe differences in their measurements and resolution. Finally, a demonstration is provided to show how x-ray absorption can be used to detect moisture ingress and determine the transport properties of the material under evaluation.
Optical properties of PV backsheets: key indicators of module performance and durability

Polymeric backsheets are an important component affecting the performance and durability of photovoltaic modules. The optical properties of the backsheet should be considered in the design and performance of a photovoltaic module and the stability and durability of optical properties have an impact on power, safety and appearance. Changes in optical properties in fielded modules and accelerated durability testing are compared. IR analysis was conducted on various backsheet materials in accelerated durability testing and compared to outdoor performance to better understand the relevant chemical changes and associated degradation mechanisms. The connection between optical properties and chemical changes is discussed.
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG): Indications and technique

The technique of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, popularized over the last two decades, is a safe and effective method of providing assisted alimentation for patients unable to maintain oral nutrition. Traditionally performed by gastroenterologists and general surgeons, the technique is now gaining acceptance among otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons as an important surgical skill. The procedure is based on a knowledge of flexible esophagoscopy and the Seldinger technique. This article describes basic equipment, patient selection, and a straightforward method of placing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes. Uncommon but potentially serious complications associated with the procedure will be discussed. As trained endoscopists often involved with the comprehensive care of patients with swallowing disorders, otolaryngologists are ideally suited to perform this procedure.
Modeling layout tools to derive forward estimates of area and delay at the RTL level

Forward estimates of area and delay facilitate effective decision-making when searching the solution space of digital designs. Current estimation techniques focus on modeling the layout result and fail to deliver timely or accurate estimates. This paper presents a novel approach to deriving these area and delay estimates at the RTL level by modeling the layout tool, rather than the layout result. This approach uses machine learning techniques to capture the relationships between general design features (i.e., topology, connectivity, common input, and common output) and layout concepts (i.e., relative placement). Experiments illustrate the formulation of the training set for machine learning in this domain, and also show how we can derive different tool models. Finally, they show how we can use the resultant model to derive forward estimates of area and delay in real-world designs.
Characteristics and survival of patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with and without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Our objective was to determine the characteristics and survival of patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) with and without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). A cancer registry and AIDS registry linkage for San Diego County was performed in October 1998 as part of a national multicentre study. We performed Kaplan-Meier analysis to compare survival in NHL patients with and without AIDS, after matching for age, sex, and race/ethnicity. We performed logistic regression to determine which patient and tumour characteristics were significantly associated with 1-year survival. Of the 4361 cases of NHL, 324 (7%) had AIDS and 4037 (93%) were not known to have AIDS. Patients with AIDS were more likely to have extranodal, high-grade, and disseminated NHL diagnosed by non-histologic means and were less likely to have received chemotherapy. Patients with AIDS and NHL who survived at least 1 year had less advanced disease stage and received chemotherapy. The median survival in patients with AIDS was 4 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 4-5) and 95 months (95% CI: 58-157) in patients without AIDS (P<0.001). Although these patients with AIDS-related NHL were unlikely to survive, the highly active antiretroviral agents currently used may improve outcomes in future patients.
Reinforcement learning based dynamic power management with a hybrid power supply

Dynamic power management (DPM) in battery-powered mobile systems attempts to achieve higher energy efficiency by selectively setting idle components to a sleep state. However, re-activating these components at a later time consumes a large amount of energy, which means that it will create a significant power draw from the battery supply in the system. This is known as the energy overhead of the “wakeup” operation. We start from the observation that, due to the rate capacity effect in Li-ion batteries which are commonly used to power mobile systems, the actual energy overhead is in fact larger than previously thought. Next we present a model-free reinforcement learning (RL) approach for an adaptive DPM framework in systems with bursty workloads, using a hybrid power supply comprised of Li-ion batteries and supercapacitors. Simulation results show that our technique enhances power efficiency by up to 9% compared to a battery-only power supply. Our RL-based DPM approach also achieves a much lower energy-delay product compared to a previously reported expert-based learning approach.
Variation in Developmental Rate on Different Hosts and Overwintering of the Sweetpotato Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae)

Time required for Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) to complete development from egg to adult at 26.7 ± 1°C was influenced by the host to which it was confined. Development was completed in 30% less time on lettuce, cucumber, eggplant, and squash than on broccoli or carrot. Five new hosts (carrot, guar, guayule, alfalfa, and lettuce) on which B. tabaci may complete its development are reported. Two-week lettuce leaf samples indicate one generation was completed from 27 October 1983 to 4 January 1984 under field conditions in the southern California desert. Field crops may serve as important overwintering hosts.
Concerted role of carboxylesterases in the potentiation of carbofuran toxicity by iso–OMPA pretreatment

Pretreatment of rats with the nonspecific esterase inhibitor iso‐OMPA (1 mg/kg sc) 1 h prior to carbofuran (2,3‐dihydro‐2,2‐dimethyl‐7‐benzofuranyl N‐methylcarbamate, 0.5 mg/kg sc) administration potentiated carbofuran toxicity by more than threefold. Neither iso‐OMPA nor carbofuran in the given doses produced any gross toxic signs. Rats receiving combined treatment, however, showed severe hypercholinergic signs (salivation, tremors, muscle fasciculations, and convulsions) within 5–10 min following carbofuran administration, and the severity was comparatively greater than that observed with an acute dose of carbofuran (1.5 mg/kg sc). Rats pretreated with iso‐OMPA (0.5 mg/kg) died within 10–15 min following the acute dose of carbofuran (1.5 mg/kg). Each drug when given alone (1.0 mg/kg iso‐OMPA, 0.5 mg/kg carbofuran) caused a significant (p < .01) inhibition of carboxylesterase (CarbE) activity in brain structures (cortex, stem, striatum, and hippocampus), skeletal muscle (hemi‐diaphragm), liver, and plasm...
A State Machine Architecture Optimized For Sequential Control

State transition techniques have shown the greatest potential as a synthesis technique for sequential control; however, to maximize the efficiency of these techniques, a new programmable controller software architecture must be developed. The sequential controller design described in this paper utilizes a state machine and state table architecture. The sequential controller is capable of implementing control algorithms based on either Petri net, state transition diagram, or functional state table descriptions.
Retrospective correction for T1-weighting bias in T2 values obtained with various spectroscopic spin-echo acquisition schemes.

Abstract Localized tissue transverse relaxation time ( T 2 ) is obtained by fitting a decaying exponential to the signals from several spin-echo experiments at different echo times (TE). Unfortunately, time constraints in magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) often mandate in vivo acquisition schemes at short repetition times (TR), that is, comparable with the longitudinal relaxation constant ( T 1 ). This leads to different T 1 -weighting of the signals at each TE. Unaccounted for, this varying weighting causes systematic underestimation of the T 2 's, sometimes by as mush as 30%. In this article, we (i) analyze the phenomenon for common MRS spin-echo T 2 acquisition schemes; (ii) propose a general post hoc T 1 -bias correction for any (TR, TE) combination; (iii) show that approximate knowledge of T 1 is sufficient, since a 20% uncertainty in T 1 leads to under 3% bias in T 2 ; and consequently, (iv) efficient, precision-optimized short TR spin-echo T 2 measurement protocols can be designed and used without risk of accuracy loss. Tables of correction for single-refocusing (conventional) spin-echo and double refocusing, such as, PRESS acquisitions, are provided.
Anthrax Toxin Uptake by Primary Immune Cells as Determined with a Lethal Factor-β-Lactamase Fusion Protein

Background To initiate infection, Bacillus anthracis needs to overcome the host innate immune system. Anthrax toxin, a major virulence factor of B. anthracis, impairs both the innate and adaptive immune systems and is important in the establishment of anthrax infections. Methodology/principal findings To measure the ability of anthrax toxin to target immune cells, studies were performed using a fusion of the anthrax toxin lethal factor (LF) N-terminal domain (LFn, aa 1-254) with beta-lactamase (LFnBLA). This protein reports on the ability of the anthrax toxin protective antigen (PA) to mediate LF delivery into cells. Primary immune cells prepared from mouse spleens were used in conjunction with flow cytometry to assess cleavage and resulting FRET disruption of a fluorescent beta-lactamase substrate, CCF2/AM. In spleen cell suspensions, the macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells showed about 75% FRET disruption of CCF2/AM due to cleavage by the PA-delivered LFnBLA. LFnBLA delivery into CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was lower, with 40% FRET disruption. When the analyses were done on purified samples of individual cell types, similar results were obtained, with T cells again having lower LFnBLA delivery than macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. Relative expression levels of the toxin receptors CMG2 and TEM8 on these cells were determined by real-time PCR. Expression of CMG2 was about 1.5-fold higher in CD8+ cells than in CD4+ and B cells, and 2.5-fold higher than in macrophages. Conclusions/significance Anthrax toxin entry and activity differs among immune cells. Macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells displayed higher LFnBLA activity than CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in both spleen cell suspension and the purified samples of individual cell types. Expression of anthrax toxin receptor CMG2 is higher in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, which is not correlated to the intracellular LFnBLA activity.
Group B streptococcal infections

This review provides an overview of the scope, presentation, and management of group B streptococcal perinatal infections. Recently described information, including changes in the epidemiology, the emergence of serotype V, and the decline in early-onset infections after implementation of guidelines for maternal intrapartum chemoprophylaxis, is emphasized.
Trajectory and Predictors of Alliance in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Youth Anxiety

Multilevel growth analysis was used to establish the shape of change (mean growth trajectory) for youth- and therapist-rated alliance in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxious youth and to identify between-youth predictors of alliance trajectory. Youth (N = 69; ages 7–17; 52.2% female) and their parents participated in an empirically supported CBT protocol. Therapists rated alliance each session and youth every four sessions. Data were fit to four growth models: linear, quadratic, a dual slope, and a novel “alliance rupture” model. Two-level models were estimated to examine the effect of youth age, sex, pretreatment symptom severity, diagnostic comorbidity, early treatment factors (use of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), and coping styles (engagement, disengagement, and involuntary coping). A dual slope model fit therapist data best, whereas youth data did not evidence systematic growth. Two-level growth models identified that pretreatment anxiety severity predicted higher initial allianc...
The red algal epiphytes Microcladia coulteri and M. californica (Rhodophyceae, Ceramiaceae). II. Basiphyte specificity

The phenomenon of basiphyte specificity in the settlement and growth of the red algal epiphytes Microcladia californica Farl. and M. coulteri Harv. was examined by studying the interface with their respective basiphytes and by cross-inoculation experiments. Microcladia californica attaches only to the surface of its single basiphyte Egregia menziesii (Aresch.) Turn. whereas M. coulteri penetrates the tissue of a wide range of basiphytes. The pattern of primary rhizoid development in both epiphytes determines the mode of attachment and may influence the range of basiphytes possible for each epiphyte. Cross-inoculation experiments show that Microcladia californica is not able to colonize the basiphytes of M. coulteri, Iridaea and Prionitis, or Ulva. The mechanisms by which these algae restrict the growth of epiphytes include short life-span, “cuticle peeling” and chemical defense. Microcladia coulteri, which naturally colonizes Iridaea and Prionitis, has evolved mechanisms to counteract the antifouling effects of those basiphytes. The question of why Egregia is the exclusive substratum for M. californica remains undetermined. However, Egregia may provide the appropriate ecological conditions and a surface topography conductive to M. californica spore settlement and growth.
Septate gallbladder with cholelithiasis: a cause of chronic abdominal pain in a 6-year-old child.

Abstract This report describes the case of a 6-year-old girl with septate gallbiadder and cholelithiasis without cholecystitis, an uncommon condition associated with chronic abdominal pain. The absence of smooth muscle components within the gallbladder septae supports an embryogenic abnormality that may have occurred early during the maturation of the gallbladder lumen. In concert with other predisposing factors, the septa may have induced gallstones and, thus, the patient's symptoms. Although rare, gallbladder abnormalities may cause abdominal pain in children and should be included in the differential diagnosis. Early ultrasound should be obtained as part of a workup if gallbladder abnormalities are suspected. Elective cholecystectomy is curative.
Real time surface infrared spectroscopy in the study of surface reaction kinetics

Abstract With recent improvements in both Fourier Transform and dispersive infrared spectrometers, surface sensitivities have been achieved which are sufficient for time-resolved surface infrared Spectroscopy. This time-resolved capability, along with high spectral resolution (better than 10 cm −1 ), and the ability to probe through high ambient pressures, has enabled infrared spectroscopy to be successfully applied to the study of surface reaction kinetics. For example, time-resolved infrared absorption features in the 1200 cm −1 to 2300 cm −1 region were used in an investigation of oscillatory oxidation of carbon monoxide over a platinum foil catalyst under ambient pressures up to 600 Torr. Adsorbed carbon monoxide and gas-phase carbon dioxide were measured simultaneously, with time resolution of 600 msec per spectrum. In addition, broadband reflectance measurements were used to infer adsorbed oxygen levels from the same real time spectra. These measurements indicated a slow, periodic variation in the number of active sites on the catalyst, in phase with the variations in reaction rate. Parallel studies (Auger and IR) of a Pt foil in UHV suggested that periodic variation in the surface carbon level drives the activity and reaction rate oscillations. The time resolution and high pressure capability of surface infrared Spectroscopy were critical for achieving in-situ measurements on all relevant time scales. Other recents applications of surface infrared spectroscopy, including improvements in time resolution (down to tens of milliseconds per spectrum) will also be discussed.
Human Relations Training for Middle Management: A Reply

A letter to the editor is presented in response to a criticism of the article “Human Relations Training for Middle Management: A Field Experiment,” published in the June 1971 issue.
Redistribution of reactive odd nitrogen in the lower arctic stratosphere

In-situ measurements of total reactive odd nitrogen NO(y), were made from the NASA DC-8 aircraft in the lower arctic stratosphere during the 1989 Airborne Arctic Stratospheric Expedition. Throughout January and February, NO(y) mixing ratios were typically between 0.5 and 3 parts per billion by volume (ppbv) at altitudes between 10 and 12.5 km. During several flights late in the mission, events of unusually light NO(y) occurred with mixing ratios up to 12 ppbv at these altitudes. Simultaneous measurements of N2O, O3, and H2O during these events suggest that large changes in NO(y) are not expected. The elevated NO(y) values are interpreted as a vertical redistribution of NO(y) in the lower stratosphere resulting from gravitational sedimentation of aerosol particles containing HNO3. No evidence of the redistribution of H2O is noted, consistent with observations of denitrification without dehydration higher in the stratosphere.
Mental Health Literacy and Postpartum Depression: A Qualitative Description of Views of Lower Income Women

The purpose of this study is to understand mental health literacy (MHL) (Jorm, 2000) in lower income women postpartum and share participant experiences of recognizing and seeking help for depressive symptoms. Focus group textual data were received from 25 participants who completed a weight and psychosocial health longitudinal study. Iterative content data analysis using Jorm's framework provided thematic understandings descriptive of MHL. Women recognized behavioral changes indicating mental distress, but fears prevented them from seeking help, and some resorted to risky behaviors. This framework could guide providers to identify women who may benefit from early intervention for postpartum depressive symptoms.
Contract Labor, Sugar, and Technology in the Nineteenth Century

Throughout the world for most of the nineteenth century cane sugar was produced on plantations, most frequently with either slave labor or, after slavery was ended, with contract laborers brought in from other low-income countries. This paper details the diverse sources and recipients of nineteenth-century contract labor movements, relating them to political and economic factors. Shifts in the ethnic composition of the plantation labor force are indicated. Late nineteenth- century transitions in the nature of sugar production are noted, and questions raised about their implications for the study of the relations between institutional and technological changes.
Dilemma of stage II colon cancer and decision making for adjuvant chemotherapy.

from Precision Therapeutics. All other authors have not Disclosure Information outside the scope of this work Wexner are paid consultants for Lifebond, Mederi T and Asana Medical. Dr Berho is also a paid consultant Wexner is also a paid consultant for Century Medical, G nence Devices, Inc, Karl Storz Endoscopy America, Nova maceutical, Polyganics, Renew Medical, Salix Therapeu Medical; Dr Wexner also owns patents and receives roy dien, Karl Storz, novoGi, and Unique Surgical Innovatio in LifeBond and novoGI; and has a financial arrangem Medical, EZ Surgical, Intuitive Surgical, and Neatstitch
Effect of Route of Administration of Human Recombinant Factor VIII on Its Immunogenicity in Hemophilia A Mice

Factor VIII is a multi-domain glycoprotein and is an essential cofactor in the blood coagulation cascade. Its deficiency or dysfunction causes Hemophilia A, a bleeding disorder. Replacement using exogenous recombinant Factor VIII (FVIII) is the first line of therapy for Hemophilia A. Immunogenicity, the development of binding (total) and neutralizing (inhibitory) antibody against administered protein is a clinical complication of the therapy. There are several product related factors such as presence of aggregates, route and frequency of administration and glycosylation have been shown to contribute to immunogenicity. The effect of route of administration of FVIII on antibody development in Hemophilia A is not completely understood. Here we investigated the effect of route of administration (s.c. or i.v.) on immunogenicity in Hemophilia A mice. The total and inhibitory titers were determined using ELISA and modified Bethesda Assay respectively. The results indicated that s.c. is more immunogenic compared to i.v. route in terms of total antibody titer development (binding antibodies) but no significant differences in inhibitory titer levels could be established. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 98:4480–4484, 2009
Identification of α-fetoprotein as an autoantigen in juvenile Batten disease

Humoral autoimmunity against glutamic acid decarboxylase has been described in juvenile Batten disease patients and in the Cln3(-/-) mouse model. To obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the repertoire of antigens targeted, we examined the reactivity of Cln3(-/-) mouse sera to brain proteins from fetal, postnatal and adult rats. Among the candidate antigens identified was alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein that has altered expression in several nervous system disorders and hepatic malignancies. Moreover, AFP levels were upregulated in the brains and livers of postnatal day 14 Cln3(-/-) animals. Sera from 31 juvenile Batten disease patients revealed the presence of anti-AFP autoantibodies in juvenile Batten disease male patients (12/13) and female patients (8/18). While these findings provide more evidence that autoimmunity is an active component of juvenile Batten disease, the gender-apparent difference evidenced by patients with regard anti-AFP antibodies may underlie variation in progression and clinical manifestations in this disorder.
Synthesis of titanium nitride powders under glow discharge plasma

Abstract Titanium nitride powders have been produced in the temperature range of 973–1273 K by using a glow discharge plasma (ionnitriding). Structures of the nitrided powders have been characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that fine powder particles were fully nitrided at 1173 K for 16 h whereas coarse powder particles retained some of the nitrogen stabilized α-phase. Powders nitrided at lower temperatures and for shorter times showed thin layers of titanium nitride followed by stabilized α-phase and transformed β-phase.
Revision of the Neotropical weevil genus Phymatophosus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

The genus Phymatophosus includes seventeen species of Neotropical Cryptorhynchinae, with hosts in the plant family Cucurbitaceae; P. scapularis Champion and P. atropos (Boheman) are seed predators of species of Cayaponia and Fevillea, respectively; P. squameus Faust is a stem borer of Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz (chuchu or chayote). The species are keyed, described, and illustrated, their distributions mapped; they are arranged in five species-groups: leucomelas-group, albocaudatus Hustache, camelus (Fiedler) comb.n., dysmorphus sp.n., leucomelas (Boheman) comb.n., scops (Pascoe) comb.n., semialbus (Fiedler) comb.n.; egregius-group, akestra sp.n., egregius sp.n., enodis sp.n.; scapularis-group, balloui sp.n., bufo sp.n., scapularis Champion (= multicristatus Champion syn.n., = variegatus Fiedler syn.n.); squameus-group, squameus Faust, verrucula sp.n., verutus sp.n.; atropos-group, atropos (Boheman), lachesis (Fiedler) comb.n. The apparent sister-group of Phymatophosus is the latisquamis group of the Neotropical tylodine genus Pseudomopsis Champion.
Second-Order-Cone Constraints for Extended Trust-Region Subproblems

The classical trust-region subproblem (TRS) minimizes a nonconvex quadratic objective over the unit ball. In this paper, we consider extensions of TRS having extra constraints. When two parallel cuts are added to TRS, we show that the resulting nonconvex problem has an exact representation as a semidenite program with additional linear and second-order-cone constraints. For the case where an additional ellipsoidal constraint is added to TRS, resulting in the \two trust-region subproblem" (TTRS), we provide a new relaxation including second-order-cone constraints that strengthens the usual SDP relaxation.
Putting escape analysis to work for software testing

Developed primarily for optimization of functional and object-oriented software, escape analysis discerns information to determine whether the lifetime of data exceeds its static scope. We demonstrate how to apply escape analysis to software engineering tasks. In particular we present novel software testing and retesting techniques for object-oriented software which utilize escape analysis. We exploit a combined pointer and escape analysis that is able to identify how individual objects allocated in one region of a program interact with other regions of a program. The analysis framework increases flexibility and scalability as testing coverage can be targeted to a specific arbitrary region of a program, followed by integration testing that can be focused on particular sets of objects escaping the region. We demonstrate how regression testing can be performed utilizing this framework. We believe such a flexible framework becomes increasingly beneficial as applications become more component-oriented.
Cytochemical studies of acid phosphatase in etching cells of boring sponges

Etching cells of boring sponges effect the excavation of calcium carbonate substrates by partial chemical dissolution. They are characterized by the same features found in active osteoclasts, the cells which effect bone resorption in vertebrates. These similarities include a region of numerous cell processes and a system of cytoplasmic bodies, vesicles, and vacuoles which are structurally connected with a tubular system and with extra-cellular channels (Pomponi, 1979). An extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, and lysosomes indicate that a lysosomal system is operative (Pomponi, 1979). The lysosomal system has been implicated as the primary mechanism in the destruction of calcined tissue by osteoclasts (Vaes, 1968; Hancox, 1972, Gothlin & Ericsson, 1976; Holtrop & King, 1977). Vaes (1968) proposed that acid hydrolases of lysosomes are active in the resorption of the organic matrix of bone.
Evaluation of Protein Reduction and Lysine Supplementation of Production Diets for Channel Catfish

Abstract A 2-year continuous production trial was conducted in earthen ponds to evaluate lysine supplementation of practical diets as a means of reducing the need for total dietary protein and limiting the nitrogenous waste production of channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus. Fingerling channel catfish with an initial weight of 34.1 g were stocked in twelve 0.04-ha ponds in early summer at a density of 24,710 fish/ha. The experimental diets consisted of three practical diets containing 30% crude protein (control), 25% crude protein, or 25% crude protein supplemented with 0.5% lysine·HCl to provide the same level of lysine as the control diet. Each diet was fed to fish in four replicate ponds to apparent satiation once a day when water temperature was greater than 15°C. Ponds were top-harvested three times during the study with a 4.1-cm-mesh grader seine to remove marketable fish. The yields of marketable fish at each harvest period were not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by diet. Following each harvest, ...
Supervised Classification for Extracting Biomedical Events

We introduce a supervised approach for extracting bio-molecular events by using linguistic features that represent the contexts of the candidate event triggers and participants. We use Support Vector Machines as our learning algorithm and train separate models for event types that are described with a single theme participant, multiple theme participants, or a theme and a cause participant. We perform experiments with linear kernel and edit-distance based kernel and report our results on the BioNLP'09 Shared Task test data set.
Towards a Dynamic Theory of the State and Civil Society in the Development Process

This paper employs the concepts of the state and civil society to explain the development process. It theorizes development as a dynamic and non-continuous process of state- civil society interaction. It argues that sustainable development initially requires a strong developmentalist state that allows for the growth of a vibrant civil society. At some point in this process, civil society will muster enough strength to challenge the state. If this transitional stage is successfully managed, the two forces will reach a balance of power that allows the country to enter the sustainable development stage, also characterized by democracy. The paper illustrates the theory through historical analysis and concludes by drawing out the theory's planning and policy implications.
Viscous flow past a flexible fibre tethered at its centre point : vortex shedding

Motivated by a laboratory experiment reported in Alben, Shelley & Zhang (Nature, vol. 420, 2002, p. 479), we performed simulations of an elastic fibre anchored at its centre point and immersed in a flowing viscous incompressible fluid by the immersed boundary (IB) method. We focus on the influence of some dimensionless parameters on vortex shedding from the fibre for Re in the range [30, 800]. Three sets of simulationswere designed to investigate the influence of Reynolds number Re, dimensionless fibre flexure modulus b, and dimensionless fibre length on vortex shedding. According to the simulation results, Re, b, and each has a significant influence on the structure of shed vortices. However, Re has little influence on the vortex shedding frequency. With the increase of dimensionless bending modulus, the dimensionless vortex shedding frequency (fvs) and the critical Reynolds number (Rec) decrease approximately as power-law functions. Both fvs and Rec increase approximately linearly as dimensionless fibre length increases.
Comparison of rotational relaxation rate laws to characterize the Raman Q-branch spectrum of CO at 295 K

Abstract We test the ability of the energy corrected sudden (ECS), modified exponential gap (MEG) and the statistical power-exponential gap (SPEG) rate laws to characterize line broadening and line interference in the CO Q-branch at 295 K. All three rate laws fit the experimental linewidth data. The ECS law is found to predict too much spectral collapse. The MEG and SPEG laws both adequately model spectral collapse, but with different implications about the role of dipolar and quadrupolar symmetry forces in CO:CO line broadening. From semiclassical calculations of CO linewidths, we conclude that the SPEG law with a restriction to even ΔJ changes is the more physically correct model.
Bilobe flap with auricular cartilage graft for nasal alar reconstruction

Abstract Objective To report outcomes for reconstruction of the nasal ala using a bilobe flap in combination with an auricular cartilage graft. Study design Case series with chart review. Setting Academic tertiary care medical center. Subjects and methods Data were obtained by a retrospective review of patients treated by a single surgeon (SPM) from January 2013 to December 2014. Patients were included who underwent reconstruction of the nasal ala using a bilobe flap in combination with an auricular cartilage graft. Clinical notes and postoperative photographs were reviewed to evaluate post-operative outcomes including flap viability, presence of iatrogenic lateral nasal wall insufficiency, alar retraction, and patient and surgeon reported satisfaction with aesthetic outcome. Results A total of 7 patients (3 male, 4 female) met inclusion criteria. Patient age ranged from 34 to 71 years (mean: 55 years). Follow-up time ranged from 1 to 12 months (mean: 6.3 months). All defects were located within 5 mm of the alar margin. Defect size ranged from 6 to 15 mm in largest diameter (average 11 mm). There were no incidences of flap loss, alar retraction, or iatrogenic lateral wall insufficiency, and all patients had results deemed aesthetically satisfactory by both the patient and surgeon. Conclusions Defects of the nasal ala can be successfully reconstructed using a bilobe flap in combination with an auricular cartilage graft with excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes.