cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiple time scales analysis for the Kramers-Chandrasekhar equation with a weak magnetic field☆

Abstract A functional approach, similar in spirit to that used by Bogoliubov in his studies of the BBGKY hierarchy, is used to derive the Smoluchowski equation from the Kramers-Chandrasekhar equation in the presence of a weak external magnetic field. A multiple time scales expansion is then used to solve the Kramers-Chandrasekhar equation as an initial value problem, thus allowing us to calculate the reduced initial data for the Smoluchowski equation. The relationship of the functional approach and the multiple time scales is discussed.
Adaptive Rigidity-Based Formation Control for Multirobotic Vehicles With Dynamics

In this brief, we introduce a graph rigidity-based, adaptive formation control law for multiple robotic vehicles moving on the plane that explicitly accounts for the vehicle dynamics while allowing for parametric uncertainty. We consider a class of vehicles modeled by Euler-Lagrange-like equations of motion. The control is designed via backstepping, and exploits rigid graph theory and the structural properties of the system dynamics. A Lyapunov analysis shows that the desired formation is acquired asymptotically. A five-vehicle simulation is used to illustrate the proposed formation acquisition control.
Supersolvable and modularly complemented matroid extensions

Finite point configurations in projective spaces are combinatorially described by matroids, where full (finite) projective spaces correspond to connected modular matroids. Every representable matroid can in fact be extended to a modular one. However, we show that some matroids do not even have a modularly complemented extension. Enlarging the class of ’ambient spaces‘ under consideration, we show that every matroid has a finite (but huge) supersolvable extension. In rank 3, we prove that every matroid can be extended to a modularly complemented one—it is conjectured that one can even construct an extension that is modular (a finite projective plane).
Preventive asthma medication discontinuation among children enrolled in fee-for-service Medicaid

AbstractObjective: Local-area studies demonstrate that preventive asthma medication discontinuation among Medicaid and Children’s-Health-Insurance-Program (CHIP) enrolled children leads to adverse outcomes. We assessed time-to-discontinuation for preventive asthma medication and its risk factors among fee-for-service Medicaid/CHIP child beneficiaries. Methods: National-Health-Interview-Survey participants (1997–2005) with ≥1 Medicaid- or CHIP-paid claims when 2–17 years old (n = 4262) were linked to Medicaid-Analytic-eXtract claims (1999–2008). Multivariate Cox proportional-hazards models to assess time-to-discontinuation (i.e. failing to refill prescriptions <30 d after previous supplies ran out) included demographic factors and medication regimen (inhaled corticosteroids [ICS], long-acting β2-agonists, leukotriene modifiers, mast cell stabilizers, and monoclonal antibodies). Results: Sixty-three percent discontinued preventive asthma medications by 90 d after the first prescription. Adolescents and todd...
Modeling time-lagged reciprocal psychological empowerment–performance relationships.

Employee psychological empowerment is widely accepted as a means for organizations to compete in increasingly dynamic environments. Previous empirical research and meta-analyses have demonstrated that employee psychological empowerment is positively related to several attitudinal and behavioral outcomes including job performance. While this research positions psychological empowerment as an antecedent influencing such outcomes, a close examination of the literature reveals that this relationship is primarily based on cross-sectional research. Notably, evidence supporting the presumed benefits of empowerment has failed to account for potential reciprocal relationships and endogeneity effects. Accordingly, using a multiwave, time-lagged design, we model reciprocal relationships between psychological empowerment and job performance using a sample of 441 nurses from 5 hospitals. Incorporating temporal effects in a staggered research design and using structural equation modeling techniques, our findings provide support for the conventional positive correlation between empowerment and subsequent performance. Moreover, accounting for the temporal stability of variables over time, we found support for empowerment levels as positive influences on subsequent changes in performance. Finally, we also found support for the reciprocal relationship, as performance levels were shown to relate positively to changes in empowerment over time. Theoretical and practical implications of the reciprocal psychological empowerment-performance relationships are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved).
Wrist arthrodesis with excision of the proximal carpal bones using the Ao/ASIF wrist fusion plate and local bone graft.

We present our series of 17 patients who underwent wrist arthrodesis with excision of the proximal row carpal bones using the AO wrist fusion plate and local bone graft obtained from the excised proximal carpal row. All patients were evaluated using a questionnaire to assess pain, function, ability to perform an occupation and satisfaction with the procedure. The mean follow-up was 17 months, at which time all the fusions had united. Clinical outcome scores showed that 14 and 15 of the 17 patients achieved good or excellent results with regard to their current condition and clinical improvement, respectively. Four patients required secondary surgery, two for fractures and two for instability of the distal radio-ulnar joint unrelated to the wrist fusion.
Superconducting bolometer array architectures

The next generation of far-infrared and submillimeter instruments require large arrays of detectors containing thousands of elements. These arrays will necessarily be multiplexed, and superconducting bolometer arrays are the most promising present prospect for these detectors. We discuss our current research into superconducting bolometer array technologies, which has recently resulted in the first multiplexed detections of submillimeter light and the first multiplexed astronomical observations. Prototype arrays containing 512 pixels are in production using the Pop-Up Detector (PUD) architecture, which can be extended easily to 1000 pixel arrays. Planar arrays of close-packed bolometers are being developed for the GBT and for future space missions. For certain applications, such as a slewed far-infrared sky survey, feedhorn-coupling of a large sparsely-filled array of bolometers is desirable, and is being developed using photolithographic feedhorn arrays. Individual detectors have achieved a Noise Equivalent Power (NEP) of ~10-17 W/√Hz at 300mK, but several orders of magnitude improvement are required and can be reached with existing technology. The testing of such ultralow-background detectors will prove difficult, as this requires optical loading of below 1fW. Antenna-coupled bolometer designs have advantages for large format array designs at low powers due to their mode selectivity. We also present a design and preliminary results for an enhanced-dynamic-range transition edge sensor suitable for broadband ultralow-background detectors.
Symmetrically increased uptake of Ga-67 citrate in the breasts: a patient with liver cirrhosis.

A 63-YEAR-OLD man presented with liver cirrhosis with ascites and splenography. He was referred to our department for performance of a whole body scan of gallium (Ga-67) citrate. In addition to bilateral diffusely increased radioactivity in the lung fields, liver atrophy, and splengography, the gallium scan revealed 2 symmetrically round foci with intense radioactivity in the anterior aspects of the lower chest (Fig 1). His chest x-ray revealed no active lung lesion. The patient had marked breast hypertrophy, but no breast mass or inflammatory signs were noted on the physical examination. This incidental finding on the gallium scan was thought to be caused by gynecomastia, presumably because circulating estrogens are not inactivated in patients with liver cirrhosis. Common 1) Physiological conditions a) Postpartum 1-7 b) Pregnancy 8,9 c) Puberty I,l~ 2) Drug induced a) Estrogen TM ~,~ b) Oral contraceptives containing estrogens 2 c) Reserpine 2 d) Tofranil 2 e) Meprobamate 2 f) Prochlorperazine 2.13,14 g) Phenothiazines 8 h) Metoclopramide 13,14 i) Chlorpromazine 14,2s 3) Gynecomastia a) Orchiectomy 8,12,16,17 b) IdiopathiO s c) Liver cirrhosis Uncommon 1) Renal Failure 2 2) Obesity 2 3) Postabortion 4 4) Idiopathic galactorrhea 8,19 Rare 1) Breast augmentation with silicon 2~ 2) Choriocarcinoma 22 3) Non-African Burkitt's lymphoma 23 4) Neonate with breast feeding 24 5) Hypothalamic granuloma 25
Toward a New Paradigm for the Management of Obesity.

Abstract Reduced calorie regimens lead to an adaptive response that reduces the body's daily energy needs, and to hormone and enzyme changes that lead to enhanced rates of fat storage following caloric restriction. There is no sound evidence to support a causal relationship between excess caloric intake and development of obesity, yet virtually all outpatient treatments for obesity are based on strategies to reduce caloric intake. The programs subsequently fail at long-term weight control, while at the same time exposing participants to substantial psychological and physiological dangers. It is time for a new paradigm in weight management that focuses primarily on reducing the percentage of calories in the diet from fat, and on increasing the level of physical activity. It has been shown that many individuals can lose weight at a satisfactory rate (one pound per week) by combining physical activity with a change in the composition of the diet that involves less fat. In working toward the goal of dietary f...
Intelligent monitoring and communication system

Intelligent monitoring systems must be capable of quickly acquiring large volumes of real time data from largely unmanned structures and/or equipment, discern patterns within that data which indicate both normal operating status and service needs along with occurrence of any 'unusual events' with potential for failure. The system must automatically enter the status data into maintenance software, and if required, send an alarm so corrective action can be taken prior to catastrophic failure.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A Colorless Election: The 2005 Presidential Election in Kazakhstan, and What It Means for the Future of the Opposition

The most surprising result of the presidential election in Kazakhstan was not Nazarbayev’s victory, but the weakness of the opposition.
The development of capillaries in the villi of early human placentas.

Electron microscopic examinations have been made on 32 early human placentas, seven of which ranged from 7 to 11 weeks menstrual age. In avascular villi, well developed basal laminae separate the trophoblast from their connective tissue cores. At such stages, only undifferentiated mesenchymal cells occur in the stroma. Vessels develop by attachment of two or more of the mesenchymal cells to each other by localized desmosomal contacts, thus forming a real or potential capillary lumen between their apposed plasma membranes. Other mesenchymal cells approach these primitive tubes, enclasp them as pericytes, and thrust processes between adjacent endothelial cells at their attachment points. The capillary enlarges, therefore, by incorporation of mesenchymal pericytes between adjacent endothelia. Mitoses occur in the pericytes but not in early endothelial cells. Hofbauer cells differentiate in the stroma concomitantly with the appearance of capillaries.
Supreme Court Support for the Solicitor General: the Effect of Presidential Appointments

HE purpose of this study is to assess whether the Supreme Court has been responsive to one aspect of its political environment, the executive branch. The measure of responsiveness used is the support by the Court for the position taken by the solicitor general (SG) in amicus curiae briefs. The solicitor general is the representative of the national government in Court. As will be discussed below, his position generally cannot differ by much from that of the President. Thus, the degree of support by the Court for the solicitor general can be seen as a measure of political responsiveness to the executive branch.
Patterns of mother and father play with their 8-month-old infant: A multiple analyses approach.

Parent—infant toy play was studied in 24 families of first-born 8-month-olds. Videotapes of dyadic parent—infant play in a laboratory were coded for predominant forms of play and the sequencing and timing of beahviors. With the exception of high amount of father physical play, there were few parental sex differences in measures of behavior duration. However, father and mother behavior was differential with respect to sequence, particularly in their responses to infant attentional cues, with mothers showing greater responsiveness than fathers to changes in infant-looking behavior.
Colopexy as a treatment option for the management of acute transverse colon volvulus: a case report

Transverse colon volvulus is an uncommon acute surgical presentation associated with a higher rate of mortality than volvulae at other locations along the colon. Surgical resection or correction is the only treatment, and various methods have been described in case report literature to relieve the volvulus and prevent recurrence. We present the case of a 25-year-old Caucasian woman who was admitted with a three-day history of abdominal pain, absolute constipation and abdominal distension. Subsequent radiographic and computed tomography imaging revealed right-sided colonic dilatation suggestive of a volvulus. An emergency laparotomy was performed during which the dilated proximal bowel was decompressed and colopexy executed by using the greater omentum to fix the transverse colon at the hepatic and splenic flexures. Volvulus of the transverse colon is rare but must form part of the clinician's differential diagnosis when encountering a patient with suspected bowel obstruction, especially in younger patients with no previous surgical history. Laparotomy is the treatment of choice and the technique of using the greater omentum as a fixing point for redundant bowel to the lateral abdominal wall is an option that may be considered especially when the bowel appears viable.
Amber facts and fancies

Amber is a water-insoluble tree resin which has attained a stable state after various changes due to loss of volatile constituents, processes such as oxidation and polymerization, and lengthy burial in the ground. The botanist is not concerned with the length of time to reach this state. It may take a year, a thousand years, a million years or more. The geologist considers amber to be a fossil tree resin, "fossil" meaning evidence of prehistoric life. The resin, then, must have been exuded from the tree at least before recorded history. The purist places even more restrictions upon the term amber. For him "true amber" is that fossil resin containing as much as 3% to 8% succinic acid (hence, known as succinite) and coming from trees which flourished along the shores of the Baltic Sea as long ago as 60,000,000 years. Gem-dealers and jewelers obviously are purists, since one pays the highest prices for Baltic amber. The geologist works to establish the age of the deposits in which the amber is found. He also attempts to characterize the amber by its physical and chemical properties, and leans heavily upon aid from organic chemists to accomplish this. The botanist, naturally, is interested chiefly in the botanical sources of amber. Interdisciplinary studies are needed to bring the answers to all groups of investigators.
Administration of G--CSF plus dexamethasone produces greater granulocyte concentrate yields while causing no more donor toxicity than G--CSF alone.

BACKGROUND: G-CSF with or without dexamethasone is becoming the standard agent for mobilizing granulocytes for transfusion. The purpose of this study was to determine if the toxicities of G--CSF with or without dexamethasone are offset by greater collection yields and to define the minimum interval that should separate sequential collections. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty donors were studied on three occasions. They were given either dexamethasone (8 mg, by mouth) plus a placebo injection, G--CSF (5 microg/kg, given subcutaneously) plus placebo capsules, or G--CSF plus dexamethasone. Granulocytes were collected by apheresis. A donor symptom survey was administered, and cell counts and blood chemistries were assessed before collection and 1, 2, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days after collection. RESULTS: More granulocytes were collected when G--CSF was given than when dexamethasone was given (41.1 +/- 20.4 x 10(9) vs. 21.0 +/- 10.0 x 10(9); p<0.001), but the use of G--CSF plus dexamethasone produced the greatest yields (67.1 +/- 22.0 x 10(9); p<0.002). When the donors were given dexamethasone alone, 58 percent experienced at least one symptom, compared to 85 percent of those given G--CSF and 75 percent of those given G--CSF plus dexamethasone. In all three regimens, platelet counts fell 19 percent to 24 percent after collection and remained below baseline for 7 to 14 days. Granulocyte counts returned to baseline within 3 to 7 days, but, in all three regimens, a mild granulocytopenia occurred 21 days after collection. With each of the regimens, blood chemistries changed, but the changes were mild and most returned to baseline within 7 days; however, changes in albumin, bilirubin, and AST persisted until 28 days after collection. CONCLUSION: These results support the use of G--CSF plus dexamethasone in granulocyte donors. G--CSF plus dexamethasone resulted in greater granulocyte yields than either agent alone and was associated with donor symptoms and changes in blood cell counts and chemistries similar to those seen with G--CSF alone or dexamethasone alone. Granulocytes can be safely collected a second time after a 7-day interval; however, for regular donors, it may be best to separate collections by 4 weeks.
Coherence-converted population transfer FTMW-IR double resonance spectroscopy of CH3OD in the OD-stretch region

Abstract Rotationally selected infrared spectra of jet-cooled CH 3 OD have been recorded and analyzed in the OD-stretch region (2710–2736 cm −1 ). The observed spectra are obtained by monitoring three E -species microwave transitions (1 −1 ← 1 0 at 18.957 GHz, 2 −1 ← 2 0 at 18.991 GHz, and 3 −1 ← 3 0 at 19.005 GHz) in a narrowband cavity Fourier transform microwave spectrometer, using the background-free coherence-converted population transfer technique. Of the four upper state subbands observed, two ( K ′ = 0 and −2) are split by perturbations. The E -species deperturbed band origin is at 2718.1 cm −1 . The deperturbed reduced term values follow a pattern similar to the ground state. This allows the J ′ = 0 torsional tunneling splitting to be estimated as 2.1 cm −1 , which can be compared to 2.6 cm −1 in the ground state.
Differential Diagnosis of Renal Tumors With Clear Cytoplasm: Clinical Relevance of Renal Tumor Subclassification in The Era of Targeted Therapies and Personalized Medicine.

Context.—The World Health Organization classification of renal tumors synthesizes morphologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings to define more than 40 tumor types. Of these, clear cell (...
Scaling behaviour in the dynamics of an economic index

THE large-scale dynamical properties of some physical systems depend on the dynamical evolution of a large number of nonlinearly coupled subsystems. Examples include systems that exhibit self-organized criticality1 and turbulence2,3. Such systems tend to exhibit spatial and temporal scaling behaviour–power–law behaviour of a particular observable. Scaling is found in a wide range of systems, from geophysical4 to biological5. Here we explore the possibility that scaling phenomena occur in economic systemsa-especially when the economic system is one subject to precise rules, as is the case in financial markets6–8. Specifically, we show that the scaling of the probability distribution of a particular economic index–the Standard & Poor's 500–can be described by a non-gaussian process with dynamics that, for the central part of the distribution, correspond to that predicted for a Levy stable process9–11. Scaling behaviour is observed for time intervals spanning three orders of magnitude, from 1,000 min to 1 min, the latter being close to the minimum time necessary to perform a trading transaction in a financial market. In the tails of the distribution the fall-off deviates from that for a Levy stable process and is approximately exponential, ensuring that (as one would expect for a price difference distribution) the variance of the distribution is finite. The scaling exponent is remarkably constant over the six-year period (1984-89) of our data. This dynamical behaviour of the economic index should provide a framework within which to develop economic models.
Expediting return of bowel function after colorectal surgery.

Abstract Background Postoperative ileus is the main determinant of the length of hospital stay after colorectal surgery. Our objective was to analyze modifiable factors, including polyethylene glycol administration, associated with the return of bowel function. Methods A retrospective review of all patients who underwent elective open partial colectomy from 2004 to 2006 at a single institution. Results The time to the first bowel movement with and without oral intake within 48 hours postoperatively was 76 hours versus 134 hours ( P P = .001); and with and without frequent ambulation it was 78 hours versus 95 hours ( P = .012). With postoperative nasogastric tube drainage, the time to the first bowel movement was 22 hours longer ( P = .002). Conclusions These data confirm previous findings supporting no nasogastric tube drainage, early feeding, and frequent ambulation after colorectal surgery. Additionally, our data suggest a strong association ( P = .001) between the use of polyethylene glycol and the early return of bowel function.
High-throughput synthesis and direct screening for the discovery of novel hydrolytic metal complexes.

Abstract A ‘combinatorial catalysis’ strategy was utilized to both rapidly synthesize organometallic complexes and to screen them for catalytic activity in chemical reactions. The application of this strategy has yielded several metal-complexes that catalyze the hydrolysis of carboxylic acid esters efficiently.
A Preformulation Strategy for the Selection of Penetration Enhancers for a Transungual Formulation

Onychomycosis is associated with the cutaneous fungal infection of the nail and the nail folds (skin surrounding the nail). It is therefore important to target drug delivery into the nail folds along with nail plate and the nail bed. Systematic and strategic selection of the penetration enhancers specific for the skin and the nail is discussed. Twelve penetration enhancers were screened for their ability to improve solubility, in vitro nail penetration, in vitro skin permeation, and in vitro skin penetration of the antifungal drug ciclopirox olamine. In contrast to transdermal drug delivery, the main selection criteria for skin penetration enhancer in topical drug delivery were increased drug accumulation in the epidermis and minimal permeation across the skin. Thiourea improved the solubility and nail penetration of ciclopirox olamine. It also showed enhancement in the transungual diffusion of the drug. Propylene glycol showed a 12-fold increase in solubility and 3-fold increase in epidermal accumulation of ciclopirox olamine, while minimizing the transdermal movement of the drug. Thiourea was the selected nail permeation enhancer and propylene glycol was the selected skin penetration enhancer of ciclopirox olamine. A combination of the selected enhancers was also explored for its effect on drug delivery to the nail and nail folds. The enhancer combination reduced the penetration of ciclopirox in the skin and also the permeation through the nail. The proposed preformulation strategy helps to select appropriate enhancers for optimum topical delivery and paves way towards an efficient topical formulation for passive transungual drug delivery.
Iris pigmentation in domestic pigeons

Analysis of the records of iris color in the University of Wisconsin colony reveals that a simple autosomal recessive factor is responsible for the pearl condition as opposed to the normal orange of wild-typeColumba livia. The symboltr for the pearl factor, as proposed byBessmertnaja (1928), will be retained.
Intensive inpatient treatment of young adult chronic patients

Young adults with chronic mental disorders have become a major concern among mental health professionals during the past decade. Many of these patients require frequent hospitalizations, are noncompliant with treatment, experience behavioral crises that threaten themselves or others, abuse drugs and alcohol, and alienate their families and support systems. The authors describe an intensive inpatient program for young adult chronic patients who have repeatedly failed to respond to community-based and standard state hospital care and appear to need extended institutional care. The program, which integrates psychiatric and rehabilitation strategies, has succeeded in increasing the amount of time these patients remain in the community. Although the goal for such patients remains a community-based treatment program, the value of an extended period of active inpatient treatment for some patients may be overlooked in current planning for them.
Peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations in patients with herpes genitalis.

Abstract Peripheral blood samples from 52 women including 16 with herpes genitalis and 36 healthy persons were studied to enumerate subpopulations of lymphocytes. T lymphocyte counts were done by SRBC rosette tests and B lymphocytes by immunobead rosette tests using antibody-coated polyacrylamide beads. It was found that the mean percentage of «active T lymphocytes was significantly less in the patients with herpes genitalis than in the controls (herpes genitalis; 13.9 ± 6.8%, controls; 25.0 ± 8.3%, p
Genetic and Chlorophyll Studies of a Yellow-Green Mutant in Muskmelon.

Chlorophyll-deficient individuals have been reported in most species of plants studied intensively by genetic methods. The majority of these chlorotic types have been shown to be the expression of a single gene mutation. However, there is a large group of types that exhibit maternal inheritance, and transmission of the deficiency to their offspring is conditioned by the cytoplasm. Until rather recently most workers have been content to report the hereditary nature of the individual deficiencies and their end results without attempting to analyze the physiological effects upon the plant. The chief hindrance to analytical and quantitative studies of the pigments has been the laborious, complicated, and time-consuming methods for their extraction, chemical separation, and identification. Comparatively rapid and simple techniques are now available for the extraction of chlorophyll from plant tissues and the quantitative determination of the chlorophyll components a and b. Highkin (6) working with barley analyzed eight apparently chlorophyll-deficient types (called chlorinas) of known genetic constitution. One mutant was entirely lacking in chlorophyll b. Another had a higher total chlorophyll content than normal green plants. Two were found to be similar to normal green plants in total chlorophyll content and in the ratio of chlorophyll a to chlorophyll b. This indicates that a deficiency of pigments other than chlorophyll may determine the chlorotic appearance of some of these plants. Three others were evidently chlorotic because of low chlorophyll content, and one extremely chlorotic type was completely lacking in chlorophyll. Various types of chlorophyll-deficient plants are of fairly common occurrence in inbred lines and segregating progenies of muskmelons, Cucumis melo L. The writer has studied the genetics of several of these deficiencies. The present report discusses the mode of inheritance and the physiological effects of the gene controlling one of them.
Electronic structure of a quasiperiodic system.

The general solution of a Schr\"odinger equation with a quasiperiodic potential in $n$ dimensions is obtained. A boost technique is presented, which will transform the problem to the solution of a periodic pseudo-Schr\"odinger equation in $n+m$ dimensions, to which Floquet-Bloch theory is applicable. We show that the eigenfunctions of the original problem and the boosted problem are related to each other by a simple radon transform, and the eigenvalues are exactly equal. We identify the hierarchical gap structure in the energy spectrum observed in numerical simulations and we show that the location of gaps can be indexed by the reciprocal wave vector given by the diffraction pattern of the quasicrystal. The position and the magnitude of the gaps so predicted are in qualitative agreement with numerical simulations.
Comparison of Tissue Oxygenation Profiles Using 3 Different Methods of Vascular Control During Porcine Partial Nephrectomy

Objectives To compare oxygenation profiles and renal function outcomes between 3 methods of vascular control during porcine partial nephrectomy. Methods To create a solitary kidney model, 18 pigs were subjected to a laparoscopic nephrectomy. Following a 7-day recovery, a contralateral open partial nephrectomy was performed with vascular control by either total renal artery clamping (TRAC, n=6), partial renal artery clamping (PRAC, n=6), or selective renal parenchymal clamping (SRPC, n=6). Renal partial oxygen pressure (rPO 2 ) was monitored using a Licox probe. Serum creatinine was assessed on day 0 and postoperative days 3 and 7. Pigs were sacrificed on the seventh day and the kidney sent for pathological examination. Results Intraoperative oxygenation profiles demonstrated a lower percentage decline ( P = .01), longer interval to nadir ( P = .04), improved percentage recovery of baseline rPO 2 ( P = .04), and a shorter duration to recover baseline rPO 2 ( P = .03) in the PRAC and SRPC groups than in the TRAC. Despite not occluding the renal vasculature, the SRPC group experienced declines in rPO 2 profiles of almost 50% from baseline. Serum creatinine levels increased significantly more in the TRAC group at days 3 and 7 ( P = .04 and .01, respectively). Histological examination demonstrated patchy inflammation of parenchyma in all groups. Conclusions The rPO 2 monitoring may provide a novel means to allow real-time assessment and titration of kidney perfusion during partial nephrectomy. PRAC and SRPC demonstrate favorable renal oxygenation profiles compared with TRAC. Interestingly, SRPC kidneys experienced a significant decline in tissue oxygenation profiles. Further work is necessary to better delineate the mechanism underlying this decline.
An Evaluation Of Low Light Level Television For Breast Cancer Detection

A low light level electronic imaging system is being developed to be used in a mass screening program for breast cancer detection in asymptomatic women. In this technique a mammographic image formed from an x-ray beam collimated by a scanning slit is converted to an intensified visible image which is viewed by a high resolution isocon television camera. The signal which is displayed on a small flat-faced cathode ray tube is photographed onto 70 mm roll film. Some advantages of the system for mass screening are its low cost of operation, ability to eliminate detection of scattered x-rays, short examination time, small format film images, low radiation exposure to the breast and the capability of electronic image processing. The limiting resolution of the system has been measured using lead test patterns and a phantom containing small diameter wires. In these experiments the electronic technique clearly demonstrated a 50u wire and barely detected a 25u wire. Extensive studies of the imaging properties of the system indicate that the image quality is limited chiefly by the television noise. In a clinical study, the ratio of the radiation exposure for the electronic method compared to that for the Lo-Dose film screen technique was measured at 0.17 + 0.06. At this level of exposure, the quality of the images was adequate to demonstrate cancers, calciTications, tumors, skin thickening, and trabecular structure. Calcification can be demonstrated, but at this Stage of development, very fine calcifications are not adequately visualized.
THETA CONSTANTS, MODULI, AND COMPACT RIEMANN SURFACES

Abstract One of the classical tools for the study of moduli of compact Riemann surfaces is the Riemann theta function. Preliminary results were announced earlier1 which established relations between two kinds of theta constants on a compact Riemann surface of genus 2. In this note we generalize the results there obtained. The main theorem is as follows: A sufficient condition for [Formula: see text] to be independent of [Formula: see text] is that [Formula: see text] for the 2g-2(2g-1 - 1) characteristics [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] ranges over all odd g - 1 characteristics.
Dendritic cells at the interface of innate and acquired immunity: the role for epigenetic changes

Dendritic cells (DC) are known to be essential immune cells in innate immunity and in the initiation of adaptive immunity. The shaping of adaptive immunity by innate immunity is dependent on DC unique cellular functions and DC-derived effector molecules such as cytokines and chemokines. Thus, it is not surprising that numerous studies have identified alterations in DC number, function, and subset ratios in various diseases, such as infections, cancers, and autoimmune diseases. Recent evidence has also identified that immunosuppression occurring after severe systemic inflammation, such as found in sepsis, is a result of depletion in DC numbers and a later dysfunction in DC activity. This correlation suggests that the sustained DC dysfunction initiated by life-threatening inflammation may contribute to the subsequent immunoparalysis, potentially as a result of the long-term maintenance of an abnormal gene expression pattern. In this review, we summarized the present information regarding altered DC function after a severe, acute inflammatory response and propose a mechanism, whereby epigenetic changes can influence long-term gene expression patterns by DC, thus supporting an immunosuppression phenotype.
Intermittent and continuous haloperidol regimens produce different types of oral dyskinesias in rats.

Rats were administered equivalent doses of haloperidol for either 28 days or 8 months using one of two different drug regimens: intermittent (i.e., weekly injections) or continuously (via drinking water and osmotic mini-pumps). Oral movements were determined by human observers and by a computerized video analysis system, which determined number and amplitude of jaw openings and closings (computer-scored movelets "CSMs") as well as the slope (amplitude/duration) and frequency spectrum (fourier transform) of oral activity. The two drug groups developed distinctively different changes over time. Continuous administration resulted in late-onset oral activity changes at 1-3 Hz and withdrawal increases in CSMs, a pattern expected of tardive dyskinesia. Intermittent treatment produced a primed dystonia-like pattern: large amplitude CSMs which had steep onset slopes and a peak energy at 4-7 Hz. These results demonstrate the importance of drug regimen in determining the type of neuroleptic-induced dyskinesias which develop with prolonged neuroleptic treatment in rodents.
An 85-year-old man with a lung mass.

(CHEST 2004; 125:1121–1123) A n 85 year-old man was seen in consultation for an abnormal chest radiographic finding. His medical history was remarkable for hypertension, glaucoma, and lifelong dysarthria due to cerebral palsy. In recent years, signs of early dementia had developed, and he had to use a walker because of an unsteady gait. A chest radiograph after a recent fall showed an abnormality, which prompted the consultation. At the time of evaluation, he complained of dyspnea on exertion and intermittent nonexertional retrosternal chest pain of 6-months duration. He denied cough, fever, hemoptysis, or weight loss. On review of systems, he complained of dyspepsia and long-standing constipation. His medications included an antihypertensive, timolol eye drops, calcium carbonate for dyspepsia, and psyllium for constipation. He had quit smoking cigarettes 56 years ago. On examination, his vital signs were normal. His neck was fixed in flexion, and marked kyphosis was evident. Crackles were present at the lung bases bilaterally. The remainder of the examination was unremarkable. Laboratory tests including a CBC and chemistry panel were unremarkable. The chest radiograph (Fig 1) showed a noncalcified mass in the right upper lobe. A CT scan of the chest was performed (Fig 2).
An exploratory data analysis (EDA) of the paths of moving animals

Abstract This work presents an exploratory data analysis of the trajectories of deer and elk moving about in the Starkey Experimental Forest and Range in eastern Oregon. The animals’ movements may be affected by habitat variables and the behavior of the other animals. In the work of this paper a stochastic differential equation-based model is developed in successive stages. Equations of motion are set down motivated by corresponding equations of physics. Functional parameters appearing in the equations are estimated nonparametrically and plots of vector fields of animal movements are prepared. Residuals are used to look for interactions amongst the movements of the animals. There are exploratory analyses of various sorts. Statistical inferences are based on Fourier transforms of the data, which are unequally spaced. The sections of the paper start with motivating quotes and aphorisms from the writings of John W. Tukey.
Fine-scale structure of pheromone plumes modulates upwind orientation of flying moths

IN studies of moths flying upwind to a pheromone source, attention has focused on the influence on flight orientation of the composition1,2 and concentration3,4 of the chemical message, and of changes in the visual environment5,6 and in wind speeds7–9. The chemical signal must be intermittent for moths to fly upwind10–12, when they usually follow a zigzag track, the evident expression of a self-steered counterturning programme13,14. The integration of counterturning and optomotor anemotaxis allows insects to polarize the zigzags upwind in odour plumes10,15. Not all moths, however, zigzag along a plume16,17. It has been suggested that the propensity to zigzag or to fly straight upwind is related to the frequency at which males encounter pheromone filaments that comprise the plume, as well as the male's latency of response, characteristic for each moth species, to both the onset and loss of contact with filaments18. Here we present evidence that flight manoeuvres are dictated by the interactions of the male with individual odour pulses. We use Cadra cautella, the almond moth, to show how the structure of an odour plume19,20 can greatly modify the flight track. Males following either turbulent or mechanically pulsed plumes fly faster and straighter upwind, and locate sources more frequently than males following continuous narrow plumes. Males also fly straighter upwind to fast-pulsed plumes than to slow-pulsed plumes. The temporally modulated interplay between counterturning and optomotor anemotaxis that is induced by the plume's structure therefore seems to explain the manoeuvres and resultant flight track shapes made by C. cautella males when flying upwind towards a pheromone source.
Immunotargeting of catalase to the pulmonary endothelium alleviates oxidative stress and reduces acute lung transplantation injury

Vascular immunotargeting may facilitate the rapid and specific delivery of therapeutic agents to endothelial cells. We investigated whether targeting of an antioxidant enzyme, catalase, to the pulmonary endothelium alleviates oxidative stress in an in vivo model of lung transplantation. Intravenously injected enzymes, conjugated with an antibody to platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, accumulate in the pulmonary vasculature and retain their activity during prolonged cold storage and transplantation. Immunotargeting of catalase to donor rats augments the antioxidant capacity of the pulmonary endothelium, reduces oxidative stress, ameliorates ischemia-reperfusion injury, prolongs the acceptable cold ischemia period of lung grafts, and improves the function of transplanted lung grafts. These findings validate the therapeutic potential of vascular immunotargeting as a drug delivery strategy to reduce endothelial injury. Potential applications of this strategy include improving the outcome of clinical lung transplantation and treating a wide variety of endothelial disorders.
Vascular changes in rat hippocampus following a high saturated fat and cholesterol diet.

The long-term effects of a diet rich in saturated fat and cholesterol on the hippocampus were evaluated in this study. It has previously been shown that this type of diet is detrimental to health, particularly affecting peripheral organs such as the heart and liver. However, effects on the brain have not been fully evaluated. This study focused on the hippocampus, a brain region instrumental for learning and memory and vulnerable to ischemic damage. Reduced blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity and increased microgliosis were observed in the hippocampus of rats fed a high-saturated-fat and cholesterol (HFHC) diet for 6 months. Interestingly, an increase in hippocampal protein levels of occludin, a tight junction protein, was found in HFHC-treated rats as well. Further investigation revealed decreased expression of the occludin protein in blood vessels and increased expression in the dentate gyrus hilar neurons and mossy fibers of the hippocampal cornus ammonis 3 in HFHC-treated rats. Our results show alterations in BBB integrity and expression of tight junction proteins after long-term exposure to HFHC diet in rats. These findings may suggest a biologic mechanism for previously observed behavioral deficits occurring in rats fed this diet.
Normal cardiac output in the conscious young spontaneously hypertensive rat: Evidence for higher oxygen utilization

Summary Cardiac output was determined using the Fick Principle in conscious young female (9–12 weeks of age) spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and in age- and sex-matched normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) controls. Oxygen consumption was measured by the closed circuit method using a spirometer and arterio-venous oxygen content was determined by the method of Van Slyke. Mean aortic blood pressure (P
Tunable sensors for process-aware voltage scaling

VLSI circuits usually allocate excess margin to account for worst-case process variation. Since most chips are fabricated at process conditions better than the worst-case corner, adaptive voltage scaling (AVS) is commonly used to reduce power consumption whenever possible. A typical AVS setup relies on a performance monitor that replicates critical paths of the circuit to guide voltage scaling. However, it is difficult to define appropriate critical paths for an SoC which has multiple operating modes and IPs. In this paper, we propose a different methodology for AVS which matches the voltage scaling characteristics of a circuit rather than the delays of critical paths. This fundamental change in monitoring strategy simplifies the monitoring circuitry as well as the calibration flow of conventional monitoring methods. To enable the proposed methodology, we study voltage scaling characteristics of digital circuits. Based on our analyses, we develop design guidelines as well as design monitoring circuits which have tunable voltage scaling characteristics. Our experimental results show that this methodology can be used for AVS with a simplified calibration flow.
Nitroprusside inhibits calcium-induced impairment of red blood cell deformability.

Background Red blood cell (RBC) deformation is critical for microvascular perfusion and oxygen delivery to tissues. Abnormalities in RBC deformability have been observed in aging, sickle cell disease, diabetes, and preeclampsia. Although nitric oxide (NO) prevents decreases in RBC deformability, the underlying mechanism is unknown. Study Design and Methods As an experimental model, we used ionophore A23187–mediated calcium influx in RBCs to reduce their deformability and investigated the role of NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and KCa3.1 (Gardos) channel blockers on RBC deformability (measured as elongation index [EI] by microfluidic ektacytometry). RBC intracellular Ca2+ and extracellular K+ were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and potassium ion selective electrode, respectively. Results SNP treatment of RBCs blocked the Ca2+ (approx. 10 μmol/L)-induced decrease in RBC deformability (EI 0.34 ± 0.02 vs. 0.09 ± 0.01, control vs. Ca2+ loaded, p < 0.001; and EI 0.37 ± 0.02 vs. 0.30 ± 0.01, SNP vs. SNP plus Ca2+ loaded) as well as Ca2+ influx and K+ efflux. The SNP effect was similar to that observed after pharmacologic blockade of the KCa3.1 channel (with charybdotoxin or extracellular medium containing isotonic K+ concentration). In RBCs from KCa3.1–/– mice, 10 μmol/L Ca2+ loading did not decrease cellular deformability. A preliminary attempt to address the molecular mechanism of SNP protection suggests the involvement of cell surface thiols. Conclusion Our results suggest that nitroprusside treatment of RBCs may protect them from intracellular calcium increase–mediated stiffness, which may occur during microvascular perfusion in diseased states, as well as during RBC storage.
Vertical Oviposition Preferences of the Asian Tiger Mosquito, Aedes albopictus, In Temperate North America

As a hyperaggressive mosquito that is also a public health threat, Aedes albopictus (Skuse), the Asian tiger mosquito, is a major priority for control efforts. We examine one aspect of Ae. albopictus biology: oviposition height. Field-based research in an urban habitat was conducted to determine if a height preference exists for this species. Larval and egg counts showed a significant preference for oviposition at ground level (0 m) compared to heights of 1, 2, 3, or 4 m (P < 0.01). An experiment conducted under semi-field conditions supported our conclusion of oviposition preference at ground level (P < 0.001), and further defines the search image needed by mosquito control personnel when dealing with this invasive species.
Stand-off detection of chemical analytes with passive chemo-sensing IR absorbers

We present several designs for the infrared stand-off detection of passive chemo-sensing absorbers. Two absorbers are implemented as Salisbury Screen Absorbers (SSA) and the third design is implemented using a novel actuated Electromagnetic Band Gap (EBG) structure. Both approaches signal the presence of a chemical analyte via considerable changes in reflectivity. This change is subsequently detected by a thermal imaging camera which operates in the 8–12µm range. In addition to the ease of implementation that results from using ambient lighting, our designs feature a large contrast between states, scalability for long stand-off distances and a wide field of view (FOV). Both designs types are optimized for best performance via a Genetic Algorithm (GA) [1].