cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Financial risk, hospital cost, and complications and comorbidities in medical non-complications and comorbidity-stratified diagnosis-related groups

A number of methods are being studied to modify and improve the accuracy of the Medicare Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) hospital classification system. This study analyzed resource consumption for 2,431 medical Medicare patients in the 53 non-complicating condition-stratified (i.e., non-complication and comorbidity) medical DRGs. Resource consumption per patient increased as the number of complications and comorbidities per patient per DRG increased, as measured by total hospital cost, hospital length of stay, the number of diagnoses and procedures per patient, the percent outliers, and mortality. Patients with more than four complications and comorbidities generated significant financial risk ($5,667 loss per patient) under DRG reimbursement. This study raises the question of the equity of DRG reimbursement for the medical non-complication and comorbidity-stratified DRGs. A method for DRG adjustment based on complications and comorbidities should be implemented by Congress to assure equitable payment for patients in these medical DRGs.
On spherical harmonics based numerical quadrature over the surface of a sphere

It has been suggested in the literature that different quasi-uniform node sets on a sphere lead to quadrature formulas of highly variable quality. We analyze here the nature of these variations, and describe an easy-to-implement least-squares remedy for previously problematic cases. Quadrature accuracies are then compared for different node sets ranging from fully random to those based on Gaussian quadrature concepts.
Combined occurrence of chyloperitoneum and chylothorax after surgery and chemotherapy for Wilms' tumor

Chyloperitoneum is an extremely rare complication of abdominal surgery in children and a combined occurrence of chylothorax and chyloperitoneum after abdominal surgery has never been reported in children. Chylous ascites usually occurs as a result of operative trauma to the thoracic duct, cisterna chyli, or its tributaries. About one third of all patients with chylous ascites after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection also develop secondary chylothorax. Diaphragmatic defects have been shown to be responsible for the occurrence of chylothorax secondary to chyloperitoneum. Congenital diaphragmatic weakness may result in evagination of the peritoneum causing diaphragmatic blebs, the rupture of which results in the movement of the peritoneal fluid into the pleural cavity. In the authors' patient, the rent in the diaphragm that occurred during surgery was probably responsible for the chylothorax. The role of chemotherapy, if any, in the pathophysiology of this complication is unknown. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a simple and effective treatment for postoperative chylous effusions. Surgical treatments such as abdominal exploration for the repair of leaking lymphatics and peritoneovenous shunt should be reserved for patients who fail TPN.
Crucial Role of Drosophila Neurexin in Proper Active Zone Apposition to Postsynaptic Densities, Synaptic Growth, and Synaptic Transmission

Neurexins have been proposed to function as major mediators of the coordinated pre- and postsynaptic apposition. However, key evidence for this role in vivo has been lacking, particularly due to gene redundancy. Here, we have obtained null mutations in the single Drosophila neurexin gene (dnrx). dnrx loss of function prevents the normal proliferation of synaptic boutons at glutamatergic neuromuscular junctions, while dnrx gain of function in neurons has the opposite effect. DNRX mostly localizes to the active zone of presynaptic terminals. Conspicuously, dnrx null mutants display striking defects in synaptic ultrastructure, with the presence of detachments between pre- and postsynaptic membranes, abnormally long active zones, and increased number of T bars. These abnormalities result in corresponding alterations in synaptic transmission with reduced quantal content. Together, our results provide compelling evidence for an in vivo role of neurexins in the modulation of synaptic architecture and adhesive interactions between pre- and postsynaptic compartments.
Preliminary design and evaluation of a multi-axis ankle-foot prosthesis

The human gait shows significant differences in the ankle movements during turning and sidestep cutting compared to straight walking, especially in frontal plane. This suggests that the next advancement in lower extremity assistive devices is to extend their design and control to the frontal plane. In this paper, the concept of a multi-axis powered ankle-foot prosthesis is introduced and its feasibility is shown by a proof of concept prototype of a cable-driven, multi-axis ankle-foot prosthesis. The design kinematics and its ankle joint's mechanical impedance in non-load bearing conditions are evaluated and discussed. It is shown that the developed prototype is capable of closely mimicking the ankle movements in both sagittal and frontal planes during turning and walking on straight path with passive mechanical impedance in sagittal and frontal planes comparable to the ones of the human ankle.
Surface priming and the self-assembly of hydrogen-bonded multilayer capsules and films

We present a systematic study of how growth of hydrogen-bonded multilayers is affected by the substrate shape and charge as well as by the deposition conditions of a polycation precursor layer. We ...
Mössbauer transmission and scattering for arbitrary polarizations

Abstract Polarization effects in Mossbauer experiments are discussed using an S -matrix and densitymatrix formalism. Equations are derived for both Mossbauer transmission and scattering. The generality of the formalism is demonstrated by extending the discussion to include interference between Mossbauer and electronic scattering.
FORMATION OF UNREDUCED POLLEN BY AN IMPATIENS HAWKERI PLATYPETALA INTERSPECIFIC HYBRID

The Impatiens hawkeri Bull. × I. platypetala Lindl. hybrid 7851–1 was studied for characteristics of unreduced pollen. When I. hawkeri × platypetala 7851–1 (2n= 24) was crossed as a pollen parent to I. hawkeri × aurantiaca Tangeglow (2n= 24), offspring contained somatic chromosome numbers ranging from 2n= 30 to 2n= 36. In root-tip cells of each of these offspring, there were 4 I. aurantiaca chromosomes, as expected after normal meiosis of the seed parent Tangeglow. This result showed that unreduced pollen was contributed by 7851–1. Additionally, a study of 7851–1 micropores showed that, at the tetrad stage, 76% of cello were dyads, and microspores forming from dyads of 7851–1 were noticeably larger than microspores forming the tetrads. An examination of pollen meiosis in 7851–1 showed that the meiotic mechanism for unreduced pollen formation was parallel spindles in the second meiotic division. As a seed parent, 7851–1 was sterile both in crosses and by self pollination. As a pollen parent, 7851–1 was successfully crossed only to seed parents containing I. aurantiaca chromosomes, indicating that I. aurantiaca is a bridging species in interspecific crosses involving I. hawkeri and I. platypetala. The implications for breeding New Guinea Imputiens (I. hawkeri) cultivars using interspecific hybridization are discussed.
Increased rates of obesity among African Americans confirmed, but the question of why remains unanswered

(1996). Increased rates of obesity among African Americans confirmed, but the question of why remains unanswered. Ethnicity & Health: Vol. 1, No. 4, pp. 313-315.
Cuticular hydrocarbons of the yellowheaded spruce sawfly, Pikonema alaskensis

Cuticular hydrocarbons of adult yellowheaded spruce sawflies, Pikonema alaskensis (Rohwer) (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae) were analyzed. Saturated hydrocarbons in males and females included n-alkanes and 2-methyl-, 3-methyl- and internally branched methylalkanes. The most abundant hydrocarbons were unsaturated: (Z)-9-pentacosene in males and (Z)-9-heptacosene in females. Additional (Z)-9-alkenes, traces of 6-, 7-, 8- and 10-alkenes, (Z,Z)-6,9-alkadienes and traces of alkatrienes were also found in both sexes. Pheromonally active (Z,Z)-9,19-alkadienes amounted to approx. 10% of the hydrocarbons in females but only to a maximum of approx. 0.1% in males. The amount of these dienes per female increased from 10.2 μg at 0–0.5 days old to 25.0 μg at 5–5.5 days old. These dienes were located on wings, legs, heads, thoraces and abdomens. They were also identified in field-collected mated females. The amount of (Z,Z)-9,19-dienes as a percentage of total hydrocarbons remained relatively constant with respect to age, location on body or occurrence of mating.
Effects of child maltreatment and inherited liability on antisocial development: an official records study

Objective Evidence is steadily accumulating that a preventable environmental hazard, child maltreatment, exerts causal influences on the development of long-standing patterns of antisocial behavior in humans. The relationship between child maltreatment and antisocial outcome, however, has never previously been tested in a large-scale study in which official reports (rather than family member reports) of child abuse and neglect were incorporated, and genetic influences comprehensively controlled for. Method We cross-referenced official report data on child maltreatment from the Missouri Division of Social Services (DSS) with behavioral data from 4,432 epidemiologically ascertained Missouri twins from the Missouri Twin Registry (MOTWIN). We performed a similar procedure for a clinically ascertained sample of singleton children ascertained from families affected by alcohol dependence participating in the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA; n=428) to determine whether associations observed in the general population held true in an "enriched" sample at combined inherited and environmental risk for antisocial development. Results For both the twin and clinical samples, the additive effects (not interactive effects) of maltreatment and inherited liability on antisocial development were confirmed and were highly statistically significant. Conclusions Child maltreatment exhibited causal influence on antisocial outcome when controlling for inherited liability in both the general population and in a clinically ascertained sample. Official report maltreatment data represents a critical resource for resolving competing hypotheses on genetic and environmental causation of child psychopathology, and for assessing intervention outcomes in efforts to prevent antisocial development.
Postdeployment: a military nurse's journey.

AbstractBackground: Although being deployed gives military nurses opportunities for personal and professional growth, their psychological equilibrium is often strained more than they thought imaginable. Limited research has focused on how soldiers and families cope with the disappointment of the pos
A comparison of the response of hand and facial muscles to non‐depolarising relaxants

Summary This study compares the response of the muscles of the hand to those of the face during non-depolarising neuromuscular blockade. It was found that observation of the facial muscles was misleading both in terms of degree of neuromuscular blockade and adequacy of reversal.
OUTCOME AT HOSPITAL DISCHARGE OF PRETERM MULTIPLE BIRTHS. † 1253

A previous study from our institution (Obstet Gynecol 1992;80:436) had shown that very low birth weight twins (TW) had comparable discharge outcomes to singletons of similar birth weight (BW) and gestational ages (GA). Data are scarce for outcomes of higher order multiples (HOM). Our aim is to describe outcomes of preterm multiple births at discharge and compare TW [n=342] to HOM[triplets (n=96) and quadruplets (n=12)]. Data were collected for all consecutive multiple births between 1/1/90 to 11/30/96. Statistical analyses were done using chi square or student's t test, as appropriate. Race and gender distribution in the two groups were comparable. Mortality for TW and HOM was not significantly different, 5% for TW and 1.9% for HOM. Outcomes data are shown in the table as mean ± sem or percentages. (*p < 0.05, †p < 0.0001). [PS = prenatal steroids, CS = Cesarean section, LOS = length of stay]
Interactional parallel processing in neural nets

The following problem is solved. For a given sequence of associations (I/sub 1/, Y/sub 1/), (I/sub 2/, Y/sub 2/), . . ., (I/sub K/, Y/sub K/) (which are pairs of polar vectors) find a matrix W which solves the equations I/sub k/*W= rho /sub k/Y/sub k/, k=1, 2, . . ., K, with positive coefficients rho k. The solution is found in an explicit form and the condition for the existence of W is stated. If the matrix W is implemented as the weight matrix in a two-layer neural network, the associations (I/sub k/, Y/sub k/) are executed infallibly; the respective computer simulation is described. The algorithm producing W can be implemented in the form of a self-programming of the network, but a layer of hidden neurons is postulated. The three-layer model and the process of self-programming are presented. >
Anatomical and enzymic studies of leaves of a C3 × C4Flaveria F1 hybrid exhibiting reduced photorespiration

Abstract Flaveria pringlei exhibits C 3 CO 2 compensation concentration (Г) values averaging 53 μl CO 2 /l at 21% (v/v) O 2 and 25 ± 2°C. When this species is hybridized with the C 4 species, F. brownii (male) ( Г = 6 μ l CO 2 / l ), the F 1 hybrid plants exhibit an average Г value of 31 μl CO 2 /l at 21% O 2 . Although light micrographs of leaf cross-sections show that the leaves of the hybrid plants possess the mesophyll arrangement characteristic of F. pringlei leaves, the hybrid plants have some bundle-sheath chloroplasts. However, the numbers of these organelles do not appear to be intermediate with respect to the numbers in the parents and are closest to the small number present in the bundle-sheath cells of F. pringlei leaves. The activities of key C 4 enzymes (in μmol · mg Chl −1 · h −1 ) are: phospho enol pyruvate (PEP) carboxylase, 121; pyruvate, orthophosphate (P i ) dikinase, 26; NADP-malate dehydrogenase, 2529; and NADP-malic enzyme, 82. All of these activities are substantially higher than in F. pringlei , but are only 7–10% of those in F. brownii (with the exception of the NADP-malate dehydrogenase activity). These data suggest that a C 4 cycle might be operating to a limited extent in the hybrid plants resulting in reduced photorespiration. Whether or not C 4 photosynthesis occurs in these hybrid plants, they represent the first reported C 3 × C 4 F 1 hybrids to exhibit reduced Γ-values. This cross and its reciprocal should be useful models for studying the anatomical and biochemical factors determining the development of limited C 4 photosynthesis in C 3 species.
Instrumented in-reactor test capabilities in FFTF

Abstract Fusion materials research and development requires high neutron fluxes coupled with a large irradiation volume. Both of these needs can be provided by the Fast Flux Test Facility. The Materials Open Test Assembly, the vehicle used for materials irradiations in the FFTF, is described.
Ceramide dissociates 3'-phosphoinositide production from pleckstrin homology domain translocation.

Numerous hormones, cytokines and transforming oncogenes activate phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI-3K), a lipid kinase that initiates signal transduction cascades regulating cellular proliferation, survival, protein synthesis and glucose metabolism. PI-3K catalyses the production of the 3′-phosphoinositides PtdIns(3,4) P 2 and PtdIns(3,4,5) P 3 , which recruit downstream effector enzymes to the membrane via their pleckstrin homology (PH) domains. Recent studies have indicated that another signalling lipid, the sphingolipid ceramide, inhibits several PI-3K-dependent events, including insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and growth-factor-stimulated cell survival. Here we show that ceramide analogues specifically prevent the recruitment of the PtdIns(3,4,5) P 3 -binding proteins Akt/protein kinase B (PKB) or the general receptor for phosphoinositides-1 (GRP1). Specifically, the short-chain ceramide derivative C2-ceramide inhibited the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated translocation of full-length Akt/PKB, as well as truncated proteins encoding only the PH domains of Akt/PKB or GRP1. C2-ceramide did not alter the membrane localization of the PH domain for phospholipase Cδ, which preferentially binds PtdIns(4,5) P 2 , nor did it affect the PDGF-stimulated production of PtdIns(3,4) P 2 or PtdIns(3,4,5) P 3 . Interestingly, a glucosylceramide synthase inhibitor, 1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholinopropan-1-ol (PDMP), shown previously to increase intracellular ceramide concentrations without affecting PI-3K [Rani, Abe, Chang, Rosenzweig, Saltiel, Radin and Shayman (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270 , 2859–2867], recapitulated the inhibitory effects of C2-ceramide on PDGF-stimulated Akt/PKB phosphorylation. These studies indicate that ceramide prevents the translocation of certain PtdIns(3,4,5) P 3 -binding proteins, despite the presence of a full complement of PtdIns(3,4) P 2 or PtdIns(3,4,5) P 3 . Furthermore, these findings suggest a mechanism by which stimuli that induce ceramide synthesis could negate the fundamental signalling pathways initiated by PI-3K.
How should forensic anthropologists correct national weather service temperature data for use in estimating the postmortem interval

This study examines the correlation between site-specific and retrospectively collected temperature data from the National Weather Service (NWS) over an extended time period. Using iButton Link thermochrons (model DS1921G), hourly temperature readings were collected at 15 sites (1 validation; 14 experimental) from December 2010 to January 2012. Comparison between the site-specific temperature data and data retrieved from an official reporter of NWS temperature data shows statistically significant differences between the two in 71.4% (10/14) of cases. The difference ranged between 0.04 and 2.81°C. Examination of both regression and simple adjustment of the mean difference over extended periods (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 9 months) suggests that on the timescale typical in forensic anthropology cases neither method of correction is consistent or reliable and that forensic anthropologists would be better suited using uncorrected NWS temperature data when the postmortem interval is extended
Pulsed Laser and Ion Beam Surface Modification of Sintered, Alpha-SiC

Pulsed laser annealing and ion beam mixing have been used as surface modification techniques to enhance the physical properties of polycrystalline α-SiC. Thin Ni overlayers (20 nm - 100 nm) were evaporated onto the SiC surface. The specimens were subsequently irradiated with pulses of a ruby or krypton fluoride (KrF) excimer laser or bombarded with high energy Xe+ or Si+ ions. Both processes are non-equilibrium methods and each has been shown to induce unique microstructural changes at the SiC surface which are not attainable by conventional thermal treatments. Under particular (and optimum) processing conditions, these changes considerably increased the mechanical properties of the SiC; following laser irradiation, the fracture strength of the SiC was increased by as much as 50%, but after ion beam mixing, no strength increase was observed. High resolution cross-section transmission electron microscopy (X-TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Rutherford backscattering techniques were used to characterize the extent of mixing between the Ni and the SiC as a result of the surface modification.
New drugs for chemotherapy-naive patients with extensive-disease small cell lung cancer.

Abstract To improve the survival of patients with small cell lung cancer, there is a need for new and effective agents to treat this disease. These agents include paclitaxel, docetaxel, topotecan, irinotecan, vinorelbine, gemcitabine, and amrubicin. In previously untreated small cell lung cancer patients the response rate for these effective drugs ranges from 27% to 79%. Median survival ranges from 6.6 to 12 months. The major toxicity for these agents is leukopenia. Studies are ongoing to evaluate the efficacy of combination chemotherapy using new agents either together or with other known effective drugs for the treatment of small cell lung cancer.
Nondestructive characterization of corrosion protective coatings on aluminum alloy substrates

This paper describes the initial phase of the development of a nondestructive, multi-sensor approach for detecting, quantifying and monitoring degradation of organic coatings applied to aircraft aluminum frame structures. Two ultrasonic techniques are discussed: the well-established pulse/echo scanning acoustic microscopy, employing a 200 MHz transducer with a focusing lens and, as a proposed alternative, continuous acoustic wave measurements with a probe in contact to the sample. The High spatial and depth resolution of scanning acoustic microscopy provides the possibility to obtain information about coating inhomogeneities, e.g. density variations due to non uniform curing of the polymeric coating or interface voids, e.g. sites of weak adhesion. This is achieved by altering the probe/sample-distance, i.e. changing the focus point of the lens. Since the echoes from the topsurface and the interface can be separated, thickness measurements are possible, too. However, only down to a thickness of 10 - 15 micrometer. Here, continuous acoustic wave measurements can be considered to be a good alternative for acoustic measurements in the pulsed regime. The method enables very accurate thickness evaluation, but can not reach the excellent lateral resolution of scanning acoustic microscopy.
Applying formal verification to the AAMP5 microprocessor: a case study in the industrial use of formal methods

Formal specification combined with mechanical verification is a promising approach for achieving the extremely high levels of assurance required of safety-critical digital systems. However, many questions remain regarding their use in practice: Can these techniques scale up to industrial systems, where are they likely to be useful, and how should industry go about incorporating them into practice? This paper discusses a project undertaken to answer some of these questions, the formal verification of the microcode in the AAMP5 microprocessor. This project consisted of formally specifying in the PVS language a Rockwell proprietary microprocessor at both the instruction-set and register-transfer levels and using the PVS theorem prover to show the microcode correctly implemented the instruction-level specification for a representative subset of instructions. Notable aspects of this project include the use of a formal specification language by practicing hardware and software engineers, the integration of traditional inspections with formal specifications, and the use of a mechanical theorem prover to verify a portion of a commercial, pipelined microprocessor that was not explicitly designed for formal verification.
Microstructures, Mixed Layering, and Polymorphism of Chlorite and Retrograde Berthierine in the Kidd Creek Massive Sulfide Deposit, Ontario

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was utilized to determine the origins of berthierine and chlorite in the core of the footwall alteration zone of the Kidd Creek massive sulfide deposit, Ontario. TEM images show lamellar intergrowths of packets of berthierine, mixed-layer chlorite/berthierine, Fe-Mg chlorite, and relatively Fe-rich chlorite that contain dislocations, stacking faults, kink bands, and gliding along (001). Interstratification of packets of berthierine and chlorite with one to several tens of layers commonly is associated with terminations of a layer of chlorite by two layers of berthierine. Layers in adjacent domains of berthierine and chlorite are continuous across interfaces that transect their common {001} planes. High-strain zones that cut across cleavage planes, consisting of distorted layers and lens-shaped pores, are associated with stacking faults and gliding along cleavage planes in chlorite crystals. Similar features separate interstratified chlorite/berthierine of different structures and textures, implying development of such composite grains after deformation of chlorite. Electron diffraction patterns show that the chlorite is an ordered one- or two-layer polytype or a one-layer polytype with semi-random stacking, and that the berthierine is a one-layer polytype with semi-random stacking epitaxially intergrown with chlorite. Coexisting chlorite and berthierine have nearly identical ranges of compositions, containing Si ≅ 5, Al ≅ 6, and Fe ≅ 6.5–8.5 pfu, and minor, variable Mg and Mn contents, in formulae normalized on the basis of 20 total cations. This implies polymorphism among Fe,Al-rich members of the serpentine and chlorite groups. In one of the samples, berthierine and mixed-layer chlorite/berthierine coexist with chlorite having two compositional ranges, including Fe-rich chlorite with a relatively wide range of Fe-Mg contents, and a dominant Fe-Mg chlorite. In another sample, compositionally homogeneous Fe-rich chlorite is associated with berthierine and mixed-layer chlorite/berthierine; Fe-Mg chlorite was not detected. The microstructural relations and the presence of coexisting polymorphs, complex mixed layering, heterogeneous polytypism, and wide ranges of mineral compositions are consistent with replacement of chlorite by berthierine under non-equilibrium retrograde conditions, in contrast to the generally assumed prograde origin for other berthierine occurrences.
Mechanism of Cell Death Caused by Complex I Defects in a Rat Dopaminergic Cell Line

Defects in the proton-translocating NADH-quinone oxidoreductase (complex I) of mammalian mitochondria are linked to neurodegenerative disorders. The mechanism leading to cell death elicited by complex I deficiency remains elusive. We have shown that expression of a rotenone-insensitive yeast NADH-quinone oxidoreductase (Ndi1) can rescue mammalian cells from complex I dysfunction. By using the Ndi1 enzyme, we have investigated the key events in the process of cell death using a rat dopaminergic cell line, PC12. We found that complex I inhibition provokes the following events: 1) activation of specific kinase pathways; 2) release of mitochondrial proapoptotic factors, apoptosis inducing factor, and endonuclease G. AS601245, a kinase inhibitor, exhibited significant protection against these apoptotic events. The traditional caspase pathway does not seems to be involved because caspase 3 activation was not observed. Our data suggest that overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by complex I inhibition is responsible for triggering the kinase activation, for the release of the proapoptotic factors, and then for cell death. Nearly perfect prevention of apoptotic cell death by Ndi1 agrees with our earlier observation that the presence of Ndi1 diminishes rotenone-induced ROS generation from complex I. In fact, this study demonstrated that Ndi1 keeps the redox potential high even in the presence of rotenone. Under these conditions, ROS formation by complex I is known to be minimal. Possible use of our cellular model is discussed with regard to development of therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases caused by complex I defects.
AC conductivity of nanoporous metal-oxide photoanodes for solar energy conversion

The temperature- and frequency-dependent ac conductivity of nanoporous metal-oxide semiconductors commonly used in technologies for solar photoconversion is analyzed by using a model based on fluctuation-induced tunneling conduction (FITC). The model takes into account voltage fluctuations of potential barriers that limit electron transport at nanoparticle contact junctions. In contrast to previous models, quantitative agreement over the entire temperature range studied is found by using the FITC model based on a single set of parameters. Guidelines for the design of new materials for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and solar photocatalysis are discussed.
Polarity of T Cell Shape, Motility, and Sensitivity to Antigen

T cell activation requires contact with APCs. We used optical techniques to demonstrate T cell polarity on the basis of shape, motility, and localized sensitivity to antigen. An intracellular Ca2+ clamp showed that T cell shape and motility are extremely sensitive to changes in [Ca2+]i (Kd = 200 nM), with immobilization and rounding occurring via a calcineurin-independent pathway. Ca2+ dependent immobilization prolonged T cell contact with the antigen-presenting B cell; buffering the [Ca2+]i signal prevented the formation of stable cell pairs. Optical tweezers revealed spatial T cell sensitivity to antigen by controlling placement on the T cell surface of either B cells or alpha-CD3 MAb-coated beads. T cells were 4-fold more sensitive to contact made at the leading edge of the T cell compared with the tail. We conclude that motile T cells are polarized antigen sensors that respond physically to [Ca2+]i signals to stabilize their interaction with APCs.
Genetic and familial factors in essential hypertension and related traits

The health significance of essential hypertension “high blood pressure of undefined origin” is well established. It is a major factor contributing to coronary heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. It directly affects about one in five Americans. Factors which are known to be associated with blood pressure include: body composition as it relates to overall mass and fat mass; physiological variables involving the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems; biochemical variables such as renin, aldosterone, kallikrein, lipids, and lipoproteins, etc.; environmental variables such as sodium intake, heavy metals, and noise; and psychological variables involving personality type and mental stress. There is a definite, well-established genetic involvement in hypertension, but specific genetic mechanisms remain a mystery. Familial aggregation occurs for many of the associated traits listed above. For some, specific polymorphic major genes have been identified, but for others genetic factors are unidentified. Essential hypertension is undoubtedly a heterogeneous group of diseases with the common end result of elevated blood pressure. Because of its health significance, there is considerable interest in identifying genetic mechanisms resulting in essential hypertension. One area that currently shows some potential for the identification of a specific genetic mechanism is related to the transmembrane transport of sodium and potassium cations.
Human fetal membranes inhibit spontaneous uterine contractions.

Fetal membranes are postulated to play a role in paracrine signaling during the initiation of labor in women. We developed a dual chamber-fetal membrane-uterine muscle model to study the effect of human fetal membranes on spontaneous uterine contractions. In this model, full-thickness fetal membranes (amnion, chorion, and maternal decidua) are sealed into a Plexiglass chamber. The membranes partition the chamber into a maternal and fetal compartment. Chorion and decidua face the maternal side, and amnion faces the fetal side. An estrogenized rat uterine muscle strip is anchored into the maternal side as a bioassay to measure effects of fetal membranes on uterine contractions. Fetal membranes cause a 40% decrease in uterine contractions compared to basal condition (no membranes). Inhibition is reversible after removal of the membranes. The inhibition is specific to the chorion/decidual side because reversal of membranes with amnion toward the muscle did not show inhibition. Uterine contractions did not cha...
Silicon homoepitaxy using photochemical vapor deposition: a reflection high energy electron diffraction and transmission electron microscopy study

Abstract Defect characterization of epitaxial silicon films grown on Si(100) lightly boron-doped wafers by low temperature photochemical vapor deposition using ArF excimer laser decomposition of Si 2 H 6 is discussed. The film morphology and crystallinity were investigated by defect etching-Nomarski optical microscopy, reflection high energy electron diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The growth parameters such as laser power, Si 2 H 6 partial pressure and substrate temperature were varied to study the dependence of crystallinity on these parameters. Single-crystal films with a very low defect density were obtained at 0.08-0.7 W laser power, 5–20 mTorr Si 2 H 6 partial pressure and 250–350°C substrate temperature.
Thermoelastic equation of state of molybdenum

We report some high P-T diffraction experimental results on molybdenum using synchrotron x-ray and time-of-flight neutron-diffraction techniques. Unit-cell dimensions, measured up to $P=10\mathrm{GPa}$ and $T=1475\mathrm{K},$ were derived from the refinement results and fitted to a high-temperature third-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state. The derived thermoelastic parameters for molybdenum are: isothermal bulk modulus ${K}_{T0}=266(9)\mathrm{GPa}$ with a pressure derivative of bulk modulus $\ensuremath{\partial}K/\ensuremath{\partial}P=4.1(9),$ temperature derivative of bulk modulus $\ensuremath{\partial}K/\ensuremath{\partial}T=\ensuremath{-}3.4(9)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}2}\mathrm{G}\mathrm{P}\mathrm{a}/\mathrm{K},$ volumetric thermal expansivity $\ensuremath{\alpha}=a+bT$ having $a=1.32(14)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}{\mathrm{K}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ and $b=1.26(15)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}8}{\mathrm{K}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}2}.$ Further, all of the previous experimental data involving shock wave, ultrasonic, thermal-expansion measurements were also analyzed and fitted to a high-temperature Birch/Vinet equation of state (EOS) and the thermal pressure approach of Mie-Gr\"uneisen EOS, respectively. With the greatly extended P-V-T data coverage, we refined the thermoelastic parameter set for molybdenum as isothermal bulk modulus ${K}_{T0}=268(1)\mathrm{GPa}$ with pressure derivatives of bulk modulus $\ensuremath{\partial}K/\ensuremath{\partial}P=3.81(6),$ $\ensuremath{\partial}{K}^{2}/\ensuremath{\partial}{P}^{2}=\ensuremath{-}1.41(13)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}2},$ temperature derivative of bulk modulus $\ensuremath{\partial}K/\ensuremath{\partial}T=\ensuremath{-}2.13(31)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}2}\mathrm{G}\mathrm{P}\mathrm{a}/\mathrm{K},$ volumetric thermal expansivity $\ensuremath{\alpha}=a+bT$ having $a=1.31(10)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}{\mathrm{K}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ and $b=1.12(11)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}8}{\mathrm{K}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}2},$ and an invariant of $\ensuremath{\alpha}{K}_{T}=5.43(5)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}\mathrm{G}\mathrm{P}\mathrm{a}/\mathrm{K}$ over a wide P-T range. We have conducted a neutron-diffraction study at simultaneous high pressures and high temperatures. Thermal vibrations of atoms (Debye-Waller factors) of molybdenum were derived as a function of pressure and temperature. The experimental results of thermoelastic equation of state parameters are compared with previous experimental data derived from shock wave and ultrasonic elasticity measurements.
On Monte Carlo Testing of Logic Tree Networks

It is shown that by a proper selection of the probabilities of 0 and 1 at the inputs, the efficiency of random test generation can be improved. This correspondence includes some results describing the testing of actual logic networks used in a computer.
Modeling, analysis, and simulation of an optical time-division multiple-access network architecture

An optical time-division multiple-access (OTDMA) network architecture has been proposed which has the potential of avoiding electronic processing of signals at the aggregate network bandwidth. New specifications for the optical components used in this OTDMA network architecture will be required before a practical system is realized. In this paper, we present a model of the OTDMA architecture that relates parameters at the device level such as carrier mobility, physical geometry, charge trapping, and carrier-concentration to system-level performance measured such as bit error rate and noise margin. We present mathematical models of the devices in the system. These models are interconnected into a system-level Monte Carlo simulation model of the OTDMA architecture. The photoconductive AND device, a critical component in the OTDMA receiver, is modeled as a time-varying circuit element (conductance) in a microstrip transmission line. Device-level physics of the photoconductor is incorporated into the microstrip model via a time-varying conductance. We base the simulation model of the AND device on the explicit second order Adams-Bashforth formulation. Alternative simulation modeling approaches, including feed-forward artificial neural networks, are also used with excellent results. Simulation of the OTDMA network is in good agreement with our approximate analysis, in addition to laboratory measurements.
Public Health Nursing for America's Children

By history, public health nursing and child health have been closely connected With current health problems of children and the need for childhood prevention of adult problems, the need for this connection continues. The Minnesota model for public health nursing can be applied to conceptualize the needed education and practice.
Acute exposure to 17α-ethinylestradiol disrupts audience effect on male–female interactions in Betta splendens

Abstract Endocrine disrupting chemicals can negatively impact the morphology and behavior of organisms inhabiting polluted waters. Male-typical behaviors are often reduced after exposure, suggesting that exposure may have population-level effects. One way in which exposure may exert population-level effects is by interfering with communication within a network of individuals. Acute exposure to the estrogen mimic 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) disrupts the ability of male Siamese fighting fish, Betta splendens , to modify their behavior during male–male interactions when an audience is present. However, it is unknown whether audience effects during male–female interactions may be similarly altered. To examine this, male–female pairs that were given an acute exposure to EE2 or remained unexposed interacted in the presence of a female, male, or no audience. Sex differences were found between unexposed males and females. More interactant-directed gill flaring was displayed by control males when a male audience was present while control females performed this behavior more in the presence of an audience, regardless of sex. Both males and females in the control group performed more interactant-directed tail beats in the presence of a female audience. EE2 exposure made all audience effects disappear as treated males and females did not differ in their responses between audience types. These results demonstrate that acute exposure to EE2 may disrupt behavioral adjustments to audience type within a social network. This disruption may, in turn, influence population dynamics in this species as both males and females use information obtained from observing interactions in later encounters with the observed individuals.
Performance Assessment of Three Commercial Assays for Direct Detection of Bacillus anthracis Spores

Bacillus anthracis , the cause of anthrax, has been used as a bioterrorism agent. Because the isolation and identification of B. anthracis by culture can take days, first response units (hazardous materials [HAZMAT], firemen, police, and hospital personnel) desire a quick and easy test that can be
Monitoring of aldicarb residues in Long Island, New York potable wells

After aldicarb residues were detected in Long Island, New York ground water in 1979, the manufacturer agreed to provide carbon filters for potable wells exceeding the New York guideline of 7 μg/L. Analyses of samples taken from these wells in the past six years indicate aldicarb residue levels are declining in Long Island groundwater. Of the 1,218 wells which received carbon filters in 1980–1981, 55% no longer contain residues exceeding 7 μg/L (an additional 24% could not be sampled during 1984–1985). Although approximately 2,500 homes have received filters through October, 1986, the total number of wells with residues exceeding 7 μg/L is now about 1,400. The results suggest that by the end of the decade only a small number of potable wells will contain aldicarb residues above 7 μg/L.
Acoustic schwannoma and pregnancy: A DNA flow cytometric, steroid hormone receptor, and proliferation marker study

For a long time, it has been speculated that pregnancy stimulates the growth of acoustic schwannomas. To test this hypothesis, immunohistochemical stains for estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were performed. Flow cytometric studies for DNA ploidy and S-phase fraction determinations were also performed. The study subjects included 6 female patients with unilateral acoustic tumors; at the time of tumor removal, 1 woman was pregnant and the other 5 women were 2 to 10 months postpartum. The age-sex-matched control group consisted of 6 men and 12 nonpregnant women, all with acoustic schwannomas similar in size to those of the study group. The study found no statistically significant association between the presence or quantity of estrogen or progesterone receptors and pregnancy, DNA ploidy, proliferation indices, or clinical data. Based on PCNA indices, large tumors tended to be less "biologically active" than small lesions (P < .01). The authors concluded that pregnancy does not significantly stimulate the cellular growth of acoustic schwannomas.
Robust observer for uncertain linear systems

A new technique for designing robust observers for perturbed linear systems is presented. The observer design uses intermediate inputs in a manner reminiscent of the virtual inputs of the backstepping technique. The resulting observer is robust since the estimated state converges to the actual state despite model uncertainties. A position control of a DC motor model perturbed by load torque and parameter variations is used as a demonstration example.
Differential unroofing within the central metasedimentary Belt of the Grenville Orogen: constraints from 40Ar/39Ar thermochronology

An 40Ar/39Ar thermochronological investigation of upper greenschist to granulite facies gneiss, amphibolite and marble was conducted in the Central Metasedimentary Belt (CMB), Ontario, to constrain its cooling history. Incremental 40Ar/39Ar release spectra indicate that substantial differential unroofing occurred in the CMB between ∼ 1000 and ∼ 600 Ma. A consistent pattern of significantly older hornblende and phlogopite 40Ar/3Ar cooling ages on the southeast sides of major northeast striking shear zones is interpreted to reflect late displacement due to extensional deformation. Variations in hornblende 40Ar/39Ar age plateaus exceeding 200 Ma occur over distances less than 50 km with major age discontinuities occurring across the Robertson Lake shear zone and the Sharbot Lake mylonite zone which separate the Sharbot Lake terrane from the Elzevir and Frontenac terranes. Extensional displacements of up to 14 km are inferred between the Frontenac and Elzevir terranes of the CMB. No evidence for significant post argon-closure vertical displacement is indicated in the vicinity of the Perth Road mylonite within the Frontenac terrane. Variations of nearly 100 Ma in phlogopite 40Ar/39Ar plateau ages occur in undeformed marble on either side of the Bancroft Shear Zone. Phlogopites from sheared and mylonitized marble within the shear zone yield 40Ar/39Ar diffusional loss profiles, but have older geologically meaningless ages thought to reflect incorporation of excess argon. By ∼ 900 Ma, southeast directed extension was occurring throughout the CMB, possibly initiated along previous zones of compressional shearing. An easterly migration of active zones of extension is inferred, possibly related to an earlier, overall easterly migration of active zones of regional thrusting and easterly migration of an ancient subduction zone. The duration of extensional shearing is not well constrained, but must have ceased before ∼ 600 Ma as required by the deposition of overlying undeformed Cambrian and/or Ordovician sedimentary rocks.
Emergency Department Shift Change Is Associated With Pneumonia in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background and Purpose—Emergency department (ED) nurses play a pivotal role in early acute ischemic stroke patient management. We hypothesized that patients exposed to ED nursing shift changes (SC) may develop pneumonia (PNA) more frequently and have worse early outcomes than do patients who have continuity of care until stroke unit admission. Methods—Consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients presenting to our ED were studied using chart review and prospectively collected registry data. We evaluated the association of patient presence during an ED SC (ie, 07:00–08:00, 19:00–20:00) with length of stay in the ED, PNA rates, and early outcome measures (discharge disposition, modified Rankin Scale score, and death). Results—Three hundred sixty-six consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients met the criteria. Of those, 54.9% were present during an SC. After adjusting for baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, admission glucose, and intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator, patients present d...
The effects of light on foliar chemistry, growth and susceptibility of seedlings of a canopy tree to an attine ant

Summary. Seedlings oflnga oerstediana Benth. (Mimosaceae) growing in three different light environments (the understory, tree-fall gaps and full sun) were tested for differences in chemistry (nutrients and tannins), woundinduced increases in tannins, growth, and susceptibility to leaf-cutter ants, Atta cephalotes (L.) (Formicidae: Attini). I hypothesized that seedlings of L oerstediana would contain higher concentrations of tannins when growing in high light conditions and, therefore, would be less susceptible to leaf-cutter ants. Foliar concentrations of condensed tannins were much higher in plants growing in full sun compared to those growing in the understory. The concentrations of condensed tannins did not increase following damage. Despite higher concentrations of condensed tannins in sun foliage, leaf-cutter ants found these leaves more acceptable. The preference for sun leaves was consistent with higher concentrations of foliar nutrients. I suggest that the magnitude of the increase in condensed tannins was not great enough to override the benefits of increased concentrations of foliar nutrients. Finally, based on these results and those of others, I suggest that foraging by leaf-cutter ants may be an important factor determining patterns of succession in early successional habitats.
C-O-H SPECIATION IN PISTON-CYLINDER EXPERIMENTS

The effects of packing materials on H infiltration into sample capsules during pistoncylinder experiments has been examined using samples of oxalic acid dihydrate, silver oxalate, and pure carbon dioxide. Mass scans revealed that as much as several mole percent carbon monoxide, accompanied by H20, can result from a reaction between H and carbon dioxide in experiments using all three reactants. A measurable 0 isotopic shift was detected in carbon dioxide samples where carbon monoxide was detected. Traditional means for measuring C-O-H volatile composition at the end of piston-cylinder experi~ents will not ident~fYthis chemical change in the volatile composition and may result m erroneous determmation of fluid composition. Glass and witherite packing materials effectively maintaineda lowfH2 around the samples.