cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Prognostic Utility of Intraoperative Allograft Vascular Inflow Measurements in Donation After Circulatory Death Liver Transplantation.

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) liver transplantation improves deceased donor liver use and decreases waitlist burden, albeit at an increased risk of biliary complications and inferior graft survival. Employing liver vascular inflow measurements intraoperatively permits allograft prognostication. However, its use in DCD liver transplantation is hitherto largely unknown and further explored here. DCD liver transplantation patient records at a single center from 2005 to 2018 were retrospectively scrutinized. Intraoperative flow data and relevant donor parameters were analyzed against endpoints of biliary events and graft survival. A total of 138 cases were chosen. The incidence of cumulative biliary complications was 38%, the majority of which were anastomotic strictures and managed successfully by endoscopic means. The ischemic cholangiopathy rate was 6%. At median thresholds of a portal vein (PV) flow rate of 0.04, both variables were independently associated with risk of biliary events (P = 0.01 and 0.04, respectively). Graft survival was 90% at 12 months and 75% at 5 years. Cox regression analysis revealed a PV flow rate of <50 mL/minute/100 g as predictive of poorer graft survival (P = 0.01). Furthermore, 126 of these DCD livers were analyzed against a propensity-matched group of 378 contemporaneous donation after brain death liver allografts (1:3), revealing significantly higher rates (P < 0.001) of both early allograft dysfunction (70% versus 30%) and biliary complications (37% versus 20%) in the former group. Although flow data were comparable between both sets, PV flow and BC were predictive of biliary events only in the DCD cohort. Intraoperative inflow measurements therefore provide valuable prognostication on biliary/graft outcomes in DCD liver transplantation, can help inform graft surveillance, and its routine use is recommended.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham COVID‐19 Collaborative Outcomes Research Enterprise: Developing an institutional learning health system in response to the global pandemic

Introduction Methods Results Discussion Conclusion As a local response to the COVID‐19 global pandemic, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) established the UAB COVID‐19 Collaborative Outcomes Research Enterprise (CORE), an institutional learning health system (LHS) to achieve an integrated health services outcomes and research response.We developed a network of expertise and capabilities to rapidly develop and deploy an institutional‐level interdisciplinary LHS. Based upon a scoping review of the literature and the Knowledge to Action Framework, we adopted a LHS framework identifying contributors and components necessary to developing a system within and between the university academic and medical centers. We used social network analysis to examine the emergence of informal work patterns and diversified network capabilities based on the LHS framework.This experience report details three principal characteristics of the UAB COVID‐19 CORE LHS development: (a) identifying network contributors and components;(b) building the institutional network;and (c) diversifying network capabilities. Contributors and committees were identified from seven components of LHS: (a) collaborative and executive leadership committee, (b) research coordinating committee, (c) oversight and ethics committee, (d) thematic scientific working groups, (e) programmatic working groups, (f) informatics capabilities, and (g) patient advisory groups. Evolving from the topical interests of the initial CORE participants, scientific working groups emerged to support the learning system network. Programmatic working groups were charged with developing a comprehensive and mutually accessible COVID‐19 database.Our LHS framework allowed for effective integration of multiple academic and medical centers into a cohesive institutional‐level learning system. Network analysis indicated diversity of institutional disciplines, professional rank, and topical focus pertaining to COVID‐19, with each center leveraging existing institutional responsibilities to minimize gaps in network capabilities.Incorporating an adapted LHS framework designed for academic medical centers served as a foundational resource supporting further institutional‐level efforts to develop agile and responsive learning networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Learning Health Systems is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Inexpensive Equipment for Innovative Games

(1977). Inexpensive Equipment for Innovative Games. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 48, No. 7, pp. 28-28.
Re-Conceptualizing ASD within a Dimensional Framework: Positive, Negative, and Cognitive Feature Clusters.

Introduction of the National Institute of Mental Health's Research Domain Criteria and revision of diagnostic classification for Autism Spectrum Disorder in the latest diagnostic manual call for a new way of conceptualizing heterogeneous ASD features. We propose a novel conceptualization of ASD, borrowing from the schizophrenia literature in clustering ASD features along positive, negative, and cognitive dimensions. We argue that this dimensional conceptualization can offer improved ability to classify, diagnose, and treat, to apply and predict response to treatment, and to explore underlying neural and genetic alterations that may contribute to particular feature clusters. We suggest the proposed conceptualization can advance the field in a manner that may prove clinically and biologically useful for understanding and addressing heterogeneity within ASD.
Identification and Confirmation of an Exonic Splicing Enhancer Variation in Exon 5 of the Alzheimer Disease Associated PICALM Gene

Summary Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory and cognitive impairment and is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. A number of genome wide association studies and subsequent replication studies have been published recently on late onset AD (LOAD). These studies identified several new susceptibility genes including phosphatidylinositol-binding clathrin assembly protein (PICALM) on chromosome 11. The aim of our study was to examine the entire coding sequence of PICALM to determine if the association could be explained by any previously undetected sequence variation. Therefore, we sequenced 48 cases and 48 controls homozygous for the risk allele in the signal SNP rs3851179. We did not find any new variants; however, rs592297, a known coding synonymous SNP that is part of an exonic splice enhancer region in exon 5, is in strong linkage disequilibrium with rs3851179 and should be examined for functional significance in Alzheimer pathophysiology.
Endocrine regulation of terminal muscle differentiation: Atrophy and degeneration of the intersegmental muscles of Lepidoptera

The intersegmental muscles of the Lepidoptera pass through three separate, sequential differentiated states during pharate adult development: status quo; atrophy; degeneration. Each of these developmental programs is characterized by a distinct morphology, physiology and endocrine responsiveness. The factors responsible for regulating these differentiative changes are ecdysteroids. In Manduca sexta, the haemolymph ecdysteroid titre declines in a circadian-modified fashion during the last three days of adult development, which parallels the maturation of the intersegmental muscles. Abdomen-ligation, which causes a precipitous decline in the ecdysteroid titre, causes the precocious atrophy and degeneration of these muscles, whereas injection of, or infusion with, 20-hydroxyecdysone greatly delays such changes. While the terminal differentiation of the epidermis and nervous system is also regulated by ecdysteroids, endocrine manipulations have suggested that the development of the intersegmental muscles is independent of these tissues. In the silkmoth Antheraea polyphemus, ecdysteroids are also responsible for regulating intersegmental muscle differentiation, but eclosion hormone (a peptide) acts as the proximal trigger for the activation of the degeneration program. The declining ecdysteroid titre initiates the atrophy program and subsequently determines the timing of both release of eclosion hormone and intersegmental muscle sensitivity to the peptide. Eclosion hormone then acts directly on the muscles, via cGMP, to activate the degeneration program. Ecdysteroids appear to prevent premature muscle degeneration by regulating a biochemical step distal to both the eclosion hormone receptor and the rise in cGMP.
Prediction of Non-Isothermal Oxidation of Magnetite Pellets

Magnetite concentrate is pelletized and then hardened by elevated-temperature oxidation to hematite, to produce pellets for ironmaking. Previous work showed that the rate of oxidation is under mixed control of gaseous mass transfer of molecular oxygen through the pellet pores, and solid-state diffusion into the oxidizing grains. Because of the partially limiting role of solid-state diffusion, concentrate size distribution strongly affects pellet oxidation. Previously, a simple mixed-control model was formulated to describe isothermal oxidation. In that model, the main effect of concentrate size distribution was on the plateau level of oxidation which is reached at a given temperature. However, the extent of plateau oxidation increases with increased temperature, requiring a more complex model for non-isothermal oxidation. In this paper, predictions of the non-isothermal model confirm the strong effects of concentrate size distribution and oxygen enrichment. In particular, a greater fraction of coarse magnetite particles would be beneficial, decreasing the size of the macroscopic unoxidized pellet core.
Outcome in low-birth-weight infants (750 to 1,500 grams): a report on 164 cases managed at Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California.

Abstract A series of 164 infants, weighing 750 to 1,500 grams, managed at Children's Hospital from January 1, 1972, to December 31, 1975, was studied. Of the 164 infants, 62% (102) survived. Obstetric factors associated with decreased survival were lower gestational age, fetal distress in labor, and breech presentation. Neonatal factors associated with decreased survival were lower birth weight, low Apgar scores, severe respiratory distress syndrome, intracranial hemorrhage, seizures, and sepsis. Of the infants who died, 62% did so within the first 48 hours of life, and 90% within the first 12 days of life. Eighty-two infants were followed for 1 year or longer, and 56 were followed for more than 4 years. Among the 82 infants, cerebral palsy occurred in seven, and less serious neurological handicaps developed in seven additional infants. Of the infants followed for 4 years or longer, 82% were neuroiogically and developmentally normal. Obstetric factors did not correlate with neurological handicaps; neonatal factors that did correlate were severe respiratory distress syndrome and seizures. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia occurred in 6.5% of inborn infants and in 14.2% of infant transfers.
Droplets Speeding on Surfaces

How fast a droplet will spread on a solid surface depends on the surface tension gradient and the wettability. The temperature dependence of the surface tension is exploited in a so-called Marangoni flow, but capillary forces can counteract this type of flow. Wasan et al. highlight the report by Danielet al., who have devised a method for harnessing the capillary flow such that it enhances the Marangoni flow. They achieve droplet speeds of up to 1.5 meters per second. The concept may be of interest in applications involving coatings, adhesion, and heat transfer.
The influence of positive affect on consideration set formation in memory-based choice

Although prior research has examined whether positive affect can impact consideration set size in stimulus-based choice, unknown to this point is whether affective influences also characterize memory-based consideration processes. This distinction is important insofar as consideration in memory-based choice entails psychological processes (including those involving the accessibility of brands) that are unique to choice undertaken in memory-based settings. Experiment 1 provides an initial demonstration of positive affect’s ability to shape memory-based consideration by documenting that positive (versus neutral) affect leads to larger consideration sets. Two additional experiments extend these findings by showing that the influence of positive affect on consideration set size is moderated by characteristics of brands (typicality) and consumers (regulatory focus). Experiment 2 demonstrates that this increase in memory-based consideration set size is attributable to a greater number of atypical, but not typical, brands being considered under positive affect. Experiment 3 documents the moderating effect exerted by consumers’ regulatory focus by showing that the ability of positive affect to increase consideration set size is more likely for consumers high (but not low) on promotion focus. The theoretical and managerial implications of these findings are discussed as are suggestions for future research.
A sequence-specific concept identification model: Infra-structure for the Bower and Trabasso theory

Abstract A concept identification model is presented for the purpose of predicting trial by trial performance as a function of the specific stimulus sequence. For different randomly selected sequences with equal probability, the model reduces to the Bower and Trabasso theory (Section I–III). Experiment 1 tests the model by studying the amount of stimulus change from Trial 2 to Trial 3, Trials 1 and 2 having involved identical stimuli on both trials for all subjects (Section IV). Experiment 2 tests the model on a 24-trial task in which the stimulus sequence was the same for all subjects versus one in which the stimuli were randomized (Section V). Partial conformity to theory was found in each experiment (Section VI). Because of difficulties observed with the original sequence-specific model, a two-trial memory model was developed for use with Experiment 2. Improved, though not fully adequate, predictions resulted. Assuming unequal salience of hypotheses was detrimental to the fits; assuming that some persons are in the conditioned state at the beginning of the experiment had only a slight advantage (Sections VII–VIII).
Deviatoric stress in a diamond anvil cell using synchrotron radiation with two diffraction geometries

Deviatoric stress in a diamond anvil cell with gold as a pressure and stress indicator is measured by two complementary techniques using synchrotron radiation. The first method employs a white X-ray beam using energy dispersive X-ray diffraction. The incident X-ray beam is parallel to the load axis and the diffraction pattern is recorded at a low two-theta angle. Using powder diffraction patterns of polycrystalline gold, we measured the elastic strain of two crystal planes oriented normal to the diffraction vector. Stresses nearly parallel and perpendicular to the load axis can be calculated by stress-strain tensor relationship. The other method uses a monochromatic wiggler X-ray beam. In this case, the diamond cell is oriented so that the incident beam is perpendicular to the load axis. The diffraction pattern is recorded on an image plate area detector. Elastic strains responding to stresses perpendicular and parallel to the load axis can be measured and stresses of the same orientations can be calculated from the strain data. These measurements provide a lower bound of the actual differential stresses in a diamond cell. With these techniques, we can measure stress distribution in a less deviatoric gasketted sample and determine yield strength of mantle materials at high pressures and temperatures.
A KINETIC STUDY OF THE ABSORPTION OF ALKALI CATIONS BY BARLEY ROOTS.

The absorption of inorganic salts by plant roots and other biological systems depends upon metabolic processes. When absorption proceeds against a concentration gradient, an expenditure of metabolically derived energy is obviously required. In some systems, such as barley roots, even absorption along a concentration gradient is negligible under conditions of arrested metabolism; and the concentration of the salt in the sap fails to reach the level of the outside solution (12, 13, 17). The absorption process is characterized by a considerable degree of selectivity. The discrimination on the part of living cells between potassium and sodium is particularly striking. Most living cells accumulate potassium in preference to sodium, even when the external environment is rich in sodium and poor in potassium. The view has come to the fore in recent years that both the role of metabolism and the specificity in the absorption process can best be accounted for by assuming that ion binding compounds are generated by metabolic processes. General reviews which make this point include those by Ussing (29), Robertson (25), and Steinbach (27). Osterhout (22) has succinctly stated some of the problems for whose solution such a concept would be useful. Osterhout (22) and Jacobson and Overstreet (14) have outlined several properties which the ion binding compounds must possess to account for characteristic features of the absorption process. These workers also stress the need for assuming that the complex is labile and breaks down again, releasing the ions. Cowie et al. (5), Roberts et al. (23), Conway et al. (4), Eddy et al. (7), and Eddy and Hinshelwood (8, 9) have investigated the problem of ion binding in microorganisms, arriving at similar views. Roberts and his co-workers (23, 24) and Eddy and co-workers (7, 8) have related the binding of alkali cations to carbohydrate metabolism, and Bolton and Roberts (1) have produced evidence that the hexose phosphates are responsible for the binding of potassium in Escherichia coli. The hypothesis that the absorption of inorganic ions involves their combination with binding compounds forms the basis of the present study. Evidence will be presented for the existence of several distinct reactive sites involved in the binding of alkali cations by barley roots. It will be demonstrated that there are large differences in the affinity of these sites for various cations.
Virtualizing power distribution in datacenters

Power infrastructure contributes to a significant portion of datacenter expenditures. Overbooking this infrastructure for a high percentile of the needs is becoming more attractive than for occasional peaks. There exist several computing knobs to cap the power draw within such under-provisioned capacity. Recently, batteries and other energy storage devices have been proposed to provide a complementary alternative to these knobs, which when decentralized (or hierarchically placed), can temporarily take the load to suppress power peaks propagating up the hierarchy. With aggressive under-provisioning, the power hierarchy becomes as central a datacenter resource as other computing resources, making it imperative to carefully allocate, isolate and manage this resource (including batteries), across applications. Towards this goal, we present vPower, a software system to virtualize power distribution. vPower includes mechanisms and policies to provide a virtual power hierarchy for each application. It leverages traditional computing knobs as well as batteries, to apportion and manage the infrastructure between co-existing applications in the hierarchy. vPower allows applications to specify their power needs, performs admission control and placement, dynamically monitors power usage, and enforces allocations for fairness and system efficiency. Using several datacenter applications, and a 2-level power hierarchy prototype containing batteries at both levels, we demonstrate the effectiveness of vPower when working in an under-provisioned power infrastructure, using the right computing knobs and the right batteries at the right time. Results show over 50% improved system utilization and scale-out for vPower's over-booking, and between 12-28% better application performance than traditional power-capping control knobs. It also ensures isolation between applications competing for power.
A user input and analysis tool for information architecture

The EZSort tool helps interface designers organize information for Web sites based on users' expectations gathered from card sorting exercises. It includes two packages: Usort and EZCalc. Usort provides a simple user interface for the card sort study participants to group cards by direct manipulation within a Graphical User Interface. EZCalc analyzes the card sort data gathered from Usort using cluster analysis statistical tool and generates tree diagrams that present clearly the page groupings suggested by the data. The output diagrams from EZCalc feature directly adjustable criteria bars and dynamic feedback on the resulting groupings. This tool is available for download from the IBM Ease of Use Web site.
Trust between Regulators and the Regulated: A Case Study of Environmental Inspectors and Facility Personnel in Virginia

The relationships between environmental inspectors and the facility personnel at regulated firms are often presumed to be adversarial, and this assumption affects the design and implementation of environmental regulations. However, closer examination of these relationships challenges this fundamental assumption of adversarial relations in environmental policy. Interviews with 44 inspectors and regulated officials throughout Virginia found that the interactions between these two categories of actors are positive. Over 90 percent of the interviewees were positive about their interactions with one another, and inspectors and regulated officials alike indicate that they trust the other. These findings are compelling because they contest common assumptions, and, as such, they provoke debate regarding the fundamental notions concerning the interactions between regulators and the regulated on the frontlines of environmental regulation. La relacion entre los inspectores medioambientales y el personal de las instalaciones en las companias reguladas se supone, por lo general, antagonista, y este supuesto impacta el diseno y la implementacion de las regulaciones medioambientales. Sin embargo, una revision mas detallada de estas relaciones cuestiona dicho supuesto. Entrevistas realizadas a 44 inspectores y funcionarios bajo regulacion a lo largo de Virginia encontraron que las interacciones entre estas dos categorias de actores son positivas. Mas del 90 por ciento de los entrevistados tuvieron una respuesta positiva en relacion a sus interacciones con la otra parte, y tanto los inspectores como los funcionarios bajo regulacion indicaron que confiaban los unos en los otros. Estas conclusiones refutan los razonamientos habituales y, de ahi, que provocan debate en lo que se refiere a las nociones fundamentales acerca de las interacciones entre los reguladores y los regulados en el frente de la regulacion medioambiental.
Definitive landmarks for reproducible tibial tunnel placement in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract The purpose of this prospective study was to define constant anatomic intraarticular and extraarticular landmarks that can be used as definative reference points to reproducibly create a tibial tunnel for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction that (1) results in an impingement-free graft in full extension without an intercondylar roofplasty; (2) positions the tibial tunnel's intraarticular orafice sagittally central in the original ACL insertion without visually guessing; (3) positions the tibial tunnel such that the sagittal tunnel-plateau angle is parallel with the sagittal intercondylar roof-plateau angle in full extension to minimize shear seen by the graft at the tibial tunnel inlet, and by doing so; (4) maximizes tunnel length to avoid patellar tendon graft-tunnel length mismatch allowing for endosteal interference screw fixation on both sides of the joint. Anatomic dissections in 50 knees showed the ACL sagittal central insertion point on the intercondylar floor averages 7 mm (range 7 to 8 mm) sagittally anterior to the anterior margin of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) with the knee flexed 90° such that the PCL may be used as a reliable reference landmark for locating the ACL sagittal central insertion. This constant relationship was found to be independent of knee size. Extraarticularly, beginning the tibial tunnel sagittally 1 cm above the superior (sartorial) border of the pes anserinus insertion and coronally 1.5 cm posteromedial from the medial margin of the tibial tubercle along the superior surface of the pes, directed toward the sagittal central ACL insertion, led to a sagittal tunnel-plateau angle that averaged 68°(range 64° to 72°) with a corresponding tunnel length that averaged 58 mm (range 50 to 65 mm) in 23 knees. This data correlated well with data obtained clinically in a series of 50 consecutive ACL reconstructions using intraarticular PCL and extraarticular pes anserine-medial tibial tubercle referenced tibial tunnels in which postoperative full extension lateral radiographs confirmed a sagittal tunnel-plateau angle parallel or near parallel with the intercondylar roofplateau angle in all cases averaging 68° ± 3.8°. Tibial tunnel length averaged 60 mm (range 52 to 66 mm) and in no case was there a patellar tendon autograft-tunnel length mismatch.
Beyond Signal-Detection Theory

Assessment of image quality is an important and long-standing problem. To the user of a medical imaging system, it is important to be able to determine the expected performance of the system in various clinical applications. For the system designer, it is important to know how alteration of various design parameters influences performance.
Stem-cell therapy for renal diseases

Significant attention is currently directed to the biological and therapeutic capabilities of stem cells for developing novel treatments for acute and chronic kidney diseases. To date, viable sources of stem cells for renal therapies include adult bone marrow and embryonic tissues, including the metanephric mesenchyme and mesonephros. Native adult kidney stem cells have yet to be identified. Systemically introduced stem cells can engraft in sites of renal disease and injury to show donor phenotypes. Stem cells can differentiate into cells similar to glomeruli, mesangium, and tubules in the kidneys. The impact of stem-cell engraftment and differentiation on renal function presently is unknown. Identification of renal diseases treatable with stem-cell therapies is expected to evolve as stem-cell technologies advance. Methods of modifying stem cells to improve homing, differentiation, and integration into host tissues need further characterization. Ethical and legal controversies about embryonic research and cloning are shaping the regulation and funding of stem-cell research for kidney diseases. Scientific and clinical understanding of stem cells and their potential for renal treatments are in the early stage of development. This field offers great promise, and there are significant opportunities for future investigation in clinical, biological, and ethical aspects of stem-cell therapy for kidney diseases.
The Biomechanics of Erections: Modeling the Penis as a One-Comparment Pressurized Vessel vs. Modeling it as a Two-Compartments Pressurized Vessel

Previous biomechanical models of the penis that have attempted to simulate penile erections have either been limited to twodimensional geometry, simplified three-dimensional geometry or made inaccurate assumptions altogether. Most models designed the shaft of the penis as a one-compartment pressurized vessel fixed at one end, when in reality it is a two-compartments pressurized vessel, in which the compartments diverge as they enter the body and are fixed at two separate points. This study began by designing simplified two-dimensional and three-dimensional mod
Monoclonal antibodies against nuclear casein kinase NII (PK-N2).

A monoclonal antibody was produced against the nuclear casein kinase II (PK-N2)* isolated from rat liver. The antibody was of the IgM class, and showed immunoreactivity towards the higher molecular weight subunit (41K Da) of the protein kinase in Western blots. The antibody was equally reactive towards the PK-N2 isolated from rat ventral prostate indicating that it can recognize the enzyme from different tissues of the rat. The antibody also detected the cytosolic casein kinase II (CK-2) suggesting significant similarity of the antigenic domains in the two forms of this protein kinase. No binding was detected with the nuclear or cytosolic casein kinase I (PK-N1 and CK-1). The antibody did not inhibit the enzyme activity or directly precipitate the enzyme, but when coupled to an affinity matrix and cross-linked with dimethylpimelimidate, it was capable of removing nearly all the PK-N2 activity from solution.
Synthesis and characterization of polyphosphazene homopolymers and copolymers

The preparation of polyphosphazene random and block copolymers bearing trifluoro-ethoxy and alkoxyalkoxy groups by the anionically initiated polymerization of phosphor-animines and poly(diarylphosphazene)s from phosphine azide intermediates is discussed. The properties of these materials were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, wide-and small-angle X-ray scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, dielectric relaxation spectroscopy, single crystal X-ray and electron diffraction, density measurements and optical microscopy, and were correlated with molecular architecture, molecular weight, composition and side groups structure.
Two-dimensional image reconstruction with spectrally-randomized ultrasound signals

An ultrasound imaging method using unfocused frequency-randomized transmissions and image reconstruction from data received by a single element is experimentally demonstrated. The elements of an ultrasound imaging array are randomly assigned different frequencies and driven by a multicycle sinusoidal burst. The resulting acoustic field is spectrally unique and target localization is possible based on the a priori knowledge of this field. A 64-element phased array driven by arbitrary waveform generators is used in the experiments. Transmission frequencies range from 2.00 to 2.64 MHz with 10 kHz resolution. One element of the array is reserved for receiving backscattered signals and an image is reconstructed from the signals received by this single element. Reconstruction is based on cross-correlation of the received data with transmitted bursts to obtain radial elliptical projections. Multiple projections are obtained from single received data, which are back-projected to obtain an image. Successful target localization is made possible through multiple frequency-randomized acquisitions. The performance of the method is measured using images of a single point target. These images are quantified and analyzed in terms of their point spread function (PSF) and SNR. Optimum imaging parameters, such as the number of acquisitions, transmit burst length, and number of possible receivers, are obtained through further analysis of SNR. Images obtained with the frequency-randomized transmission method compared well with the performance measurements of a typical B-mode acquisition. It is demonstrated that the frequencyrandomized method provides images superior to B-mode images in terms of PSF. The two-point discrimination threshold is measured to be 2 mm in the lateral and azimuth directions.
Probabilistic asymptotic analysis of stochastic online scheduling problems

In the stochastic online scheduling environment, jobs with unknown release times and weights arrive over time. Upon arrival, the information on the weight of the job is revealed but the processing requirement remains unknown until the job is finished. In this paper we consider the objective of minimizing the total weighted completion time. With the assumptions that job weights are bounded, machine capacity is adequate, and processing requirements are bounded and identical and independently distributed across the machines and jobs, we show that any nondelay algorithm is asymptotically optimal for the stochastic online single machine problem, flow shop problem, and uniform parallel machine problem. Our simulation studies of these stochastic online scheduling problems show that two generic nondelay algorithms perform very well as long as the number of jobs is larger than 100.
506 PROSPECTIVE STUDY OF RISKS OF COMPLICATION IN 6,424 PROCEDURES IN PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY

A prospective study of risks in upper intestinal endoscopy, liver biopsy, proctosigmoidoscopy, rectal biopsy, esophageal motility, intraesophageal pH probe tests and liver biopsy was conducted at 25 medical centers during an 18 month period from April 1, 1978 to October 1, 1979. 5,840 procedures were reported: 2046 upper intestinal endoscopies; 1,120 small intestinal biopsies; 1,400 proctosigmoidoscopies; 842 rectal biopsies; 432 esophageal motility and Tuttle tests, and 584 liver biopsies. Completeness of reporting varied from 88 to 99% of all procedures at participating centers. Total numbers of procedures varied from 5 to 50 per month. Some centers did not do all procedures. 20 of 25 institutions reported doing all the procedures. 5 of 25 did no esophageal function tests. Complications occurred in 1.7% of upper intestinal endoscopies; .5% of small intestinal biopsies; .2% of proctosigmoidoscopies; 1% of rectal biopsies, .3% of esophageal function tests and 4% of liver biopsies. Bronchospasm, transient respiratory arrest and phlebitis secondary to sedation were the commonest complications in those undergoing endoscopy; fever and sedation complications were commonest in small intestinal biopsy;only 1 hemorrhage requiring transfusion and 1 perforation were reported in this group. Fever and perforation of the rectum were the only serious complications at proctosigmoidoscopy. Rectal bleeding requiring transfusion and fever were the only complications in rectal biopsy and aspiration pneumonia and transient respiratory arrest the only ones in esophageal function tests. Liver biopsy had the greatest risk of complication with bleeding, pneumothorax and pain the 3 major complications. Invasive diagnostic procedures in pediatric gastroenterology patients may be done with a low risk of complications. Information gained outweighs risk of procedures.
Growth and cell population kinetics of single and multiple KHT sarcomas.

KHT sarcomas were implanted in syngeneic C3H/Km mice either as single intradermal tumors on the flank or as nine or ten intradermal tumors on the back. The growth curves of the single and multiple tumors were indistinguishable throughout the accurately measurable volume range. The cell population kinetics of the single and multiple tumors, examined by the per cent labeled mitoses technique, were not significantly different in any respect. The cell population kinetics in the center and periphery of the single tumors were examined separately and found to be the same.
Current understanding of pitting and crevice corrosion and its application to test methods for determining the corrosion susceptibility of nuclear waste metallic containers

Abstract A review of crevice and pitting corrosion mechanism and testing techniques is given to understand the fundamental problems involved in determining corrosion rates of alloys to be used as nuclear waste containers. The mechanisms are broken down into two sections, initiation and propagation of the crevice or pit. Theories of initiation include the absorbed ion displacement model, ion migration or penetration model and the breakdown-repair model. Experimental results concerning the initiation period include a discussion of the kinetics of initiation, the critical potential for breakdowns, and experimental factors affecting the initiation. The theories of pit and crevice corrosion propagation are mentioned as well as factors affecting propagation. Several experimental techniques are discussed that are useful in determining the probability of pitting and/or crevice corrosion of alloys. In assessing the lifetime of the metallic container, accelerated tests are required. With this in mind the testing techniques concentrate on electrochemical techniques and various modifications of these basic techniques. Although susceptibility of alloys to pitting and crevice corrosion can be determined readily, initiation time and propagation rates are not as straightforward particularly over 1000 years. Nevertheless several testing techniques exist that may be used to determine these important values.
Electron transfer in the complex of membrane-bound human cytochrome P450 3A4 with the flavin domain of P450BM-3: The effect of oligomerization of the heme protein and intermittent modulation of the spin equilibrium

Abstract We studied the kinetics of NADPH-dependent reduction of human CYP3A4 incorporated into Nanodiscs (CYP3A4–ND) and proteoliposomes in order to probe the effect of P450 oligomerization on its reduction. The flavin domain of cytochrome P450-BM3 (BMR) was used as a model electron donor partner. Unlike CYP3A4 oligomers, where only 50% of the enzyme was shown to be reducible by BMR, CYP3A4–ND could be reduced almost completely. High reducibility was also observed in proteoliposomes with a high lipid-to-protein ratio (L/P = 910), where the oligomerization equilibrium is displaced towards monomers. In contrast, the reducibililty in proteoliposomes with L/P = 76 did not exceed 55 ± 6%. The effect of the surface density of CYP3A4 in proteoliposomes on the oligomerization equilibrium was confirmed with a FRET-based assay employing a cysteine-depleted mutant labeled on Cys-468 with BODIPY iodoacetamide. These results confirm a pivotal role of CYP3A4 oligomerization in its functional heterogeneity. Furthermore, the investigation of the initial phase of the kinetics of CYP3A4 reduction showed that the addition of NADPH causes a rapid low-to-high-spin transition in the CYP3A4–BMR complex, which is followed by a partial slower reversal. This observation reveals a mechanism whereby the CYP3A4 spin equilibrium is modulated by the redox state of the bound flavoprotein.
Adenosine stimulates canine retinal microvascular endothelial cell migration and tube formation

Purpose. To evaluate the effects of adenosine and related substances on events that occur during vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, using in vitro assays.Methods. Adenosine (ADO), inosine (INO, an adenosine catabolite), and 5′-(N-ethylcarboxamido) adenosine (NECA, an adenosine agonist) were evaluated for their effect on the proliferation of canine retinal microvascular endothelial cells (DRME), using a cell count assay. Also, these substances and ADO receptor selective agonists and antagonists were evaluated in an assay for DRME chemokinesis by measuring random migration into a wound made in a confluent cellular monolayer. Finally, the effects of these substances on DRME cord formation were evaluated in a 3-dimensional collagen gel. Bovine retinal extract (RE) was used as a positive control for all assays.Results. There was no effect on proliferation of DRME by any of the substances related to adenosine, but VEGF yielded a 30% stimulation of proliferation. Retinal extract, 10 μM ADO and 1.2 nM VEGF stimulat...
HIGH AIRWAY PRESSURE INDUCED LUNG INJURY IS NOT PREVENTED BY PERFLUOROCARBON ASSOCIATED GAS EXCHANGE (PAGE). 2037

Healthy lungs subjected to mechanical ventilation with high airway pressure-high tidal volume develop high permeability edema. We investigated whether the same type of ventilation on perfluorocarbon filled lungs would result in similar damage. Adult rats (350- 500 gm) (BW) were randomized to intermittent positive pressure ventilation with low inspiratory pressure (PIP)- tidal volume (VT) (IPPV) or high pressure - high tidal volume(HIPPV). Within each group, half were randomized to have their lungs initially filled with perfluorocarbon (PF)(APF-140, Air Products and Chemicals. Allentown PA) to functional residual capacity (1ml/100gm BW). Rates were 60 and 25 breaths/ min for the low VT and high VT groups. Arterial blood gases, lung compliance(Cdyn) and pulmonary airway resistance (Raw) were serially measured. After 30 min, the animals were sacrificed and wet and dry lung weights measured to assess extravascular lung water (Qwl) (corrected for lung hemoglobin and fluorocarbon content). Microvascular permeability was assessed by the 30-min 125I-albumin uptake by the lungs and measured as lung (extravascular) albumin space (Alb.Sp). PF normo-ventilation required higher PIP for normocapnea because of significantly higher Raw but did not result in more lung injury. There was no protective effect of PF at high volume ventilation. Table
Jaundice, Choledocholithiasis, and a Nondilated Common Duct

In two cases of jaundice due to choledocholithiasis, the biliary tree was not dilated on skinny-needle transhepatic cholangiography. Visualization of the biliary tree before arriving at a diagnosis in certain cases of jaundice is needed. (JAMA240:1983-1984, 1978)
Histologic evaluation of an immediately loaded titanium provisional implant retrieved after functioning for 18 months: a clinical report.

Abstract Histologic evaluation of a single immediately loaded titanium provisional implant that was in function for 18 months revealed 81.3% bone-to-implant contact of the surface evaluated, whereas 9.6% of the implant surface evaluated was opposed by marrow and 9.1% by connective tissue. The bone appeared to be in active remodeling stage and in close contact with the implant surface. (J Prosthet Dent 2003;89:331-4.)
A joint acoustic and phonological approach to speech intelligibility assessment

While current models of speech intelligibility rely on intricate acoustic analyses of speech attributes, they are limited by the lack of any linguistic information; hence failing to capture natural variability of speech sounds and confining their applicability to average intelligibility assessments. Another important limitation is that the existing models rely on the use of reference clean speech templates (or average profiles). In this work, we propose a novel approach to speech intelligibility by combining a biologically-inspired acoustic analysis of peripheral and cortical processing with phonological statistical models of speech using a hybrid GMM-SVM system. The model results in a novel scheme for speech intelligibility assessment without the use of reference clean speech templates, and the model predictions strongly correlate with scores obtained from human listeners under a variety of realistic listening environments. We further show that the proposed model enables local level tracking of intelligibility and also generalizes well to multiple speech corpora.
The measurement of H2SO4 and other sulfate species at Tuxedo, New York with a thermal analysis flame photometric detector and simultaneously collected quartz filter samples

A study of major atmospheric particulate sulfate species was conducted during 30 July 1980–1983 September 1980 in Sterling Forest, a rural area in Tuxedo, NY, not affected by major local sources of pollution. In situ measurements of total sulfate, sulfuric acid and ammonium sulfate ammonium bisulfate were made using Thermal Analysis-Flame Photometric Detection (TA-FPD). These measurements were compared to the total sulfate and strong acid (H+) concentration measured in simultaneously collected 12 h, treated quartz filter samples. The concentration of NH4HSO4 was inferred from the difference between the total strong acid concentration and the sulfuric acid measurements, so that total sulfate and acid concentrations could be balanced. A major sulfate pollution episode occurred during the period of 27–29 August. The concentration of H+ showed an excess above that necessary to account for the TA-FPD H2SO4 measurement, indicating the presence of NH4 HSO4. The maximum 12 h average concentrations of H2SO4, NH4HSO4 and (NH4)2SO4 were 5.18, 11.42 and 10.08 μg m−3 as SO42− respectively, and were measured from 9:15 to 21:15 on 28 August. The study demonstrated the usefulness of concurrent measurements of airborne particulate sulfate by filter extraction and TA-FPD to identify acidic sulfate species.
Intracranial aneurysms in klippel-trenaunay/weber syndromes: case report.

OBJECTIVE We present a comprehensive review of intracranial aneurysms in Klippel-Trenaunay and Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndromes (KTS/KTWS), and examine factors influencing the risks of surgery vs conservative management. CLINICAL PRESENTATION A 58-year-old physician with KTS affecting the right extremities presented with left hemispheric cerebellar stroke and was discovered to harbor four intracranial aneurysms of the posterior circulation: fusiform mid and distal BA (2.6 x 2 x 2 cm), fusiform right proximal P1 (2 x 1.3 x 1.3 cm), fusiform right distal P1 (2.8 x 2.7 x 2 cm), and saccular left distal posterior inferior cerebellar artery (2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 cm). Ten years later he had an infarct in the paramedian distribution of the basilar artery and a right internal capsule stroke. Two months later, he developed hydrocephalus, ultimately presenting in status epilepticus 4 months later secondary to ongoing aneurysm expansion and mass effect. INTERVENTION Systemic anticoagulation for acute thrombosis with possible distal arterioarterial embolization from giant P1 aneurysms. Ventriculoperitoneal shunting for hydrocephalus. The patient died within 9 days after admission and 10 years after the initial discovery of aneurysms. CONCLUSION Strict control of modifiable risk factors compromising vascular integrity and periodic neuroimaging are warranted in KTS/KTWS patients. KTS/KTWS patients are hypercoagulable, and may be predisposed to aneurysm thrombosis with increased risk for distal arterial microembolization. Stroke-related morbidity secondary to distal arterioarterial aneurysm thrombus embolization and acute aneurysm thrombosis may be decreased with systemic anticoagulation in this patient population. KTS/KTWS patients have significantly higher rates of DVT and PE than the general population, and should be classified in the high-risk category for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. Both endovascular and open cerebrovascular techniques have been used successfully in KTS/KTWS patients with intracranial aneurysms.
PILOT payments: a potential revenue source for public libraries

Purpose – To inform library administrators about the funds generated from tax‐exempt entities intended to support various government services, such as libraries.Design/methodology/approach – Using New York State in general, and the Brentwood Public Library in particular, the article illustrates the amount of revenue collected with the intent of funding local libraries.Findings – While substantial funds are collected from tax‐exempt entities, often the portion intended to support public libraries does not find its way to the libraries they support.Originality/value – Alerts library administrators to the possibility that they may not be receiving all the revenue that has been collected to support their institutions.