cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Autoradiographic studies of tobacco mosaic virus inoculations on host and non-host species

Abstract Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), labeled with C 14 , was used to inoculate host and non-host species. Autoradiographs were prepared from the inoculated, sectioned leaves. Large clusters of virus (β tracks) adhered to the exposed basal septa of broken trichromes in Nicotiana species as shown in previous experiments. Collapse of the foot cell followed by necrosis of adjacent tissues marked lesion formation, and virus clusters and trichome remnants were regularly present. Lesions in Phaseolus vulgaris var. Pinto were frequently associated with virus clusters at the ruptured base of the short stiff trichomes. Similar damage with P. vulgaris var. Beka showed smaller virus clusters, but no lesions were formed in this non-host of TMV. In Datura stramonium, Lycopersicon esculentum, Cucumis sativus , and Gomphrena globosa , the long trichomes were often torn or broken off at the basal cell. All these damaged areas accumulated virus particles. Inoculation of Chenopodium amaranticolor removed the glandular hairs and basal cells, exposing the basal septa on the foot cells. The surface of these leaves frequently bore scattered virus particles. Among non-hosts, Vigna sinensis showed rupture of the epidermis where a few virus particles collected, but Pisum sativum rarely showed damage or track clusters. The results suggest that damage associated with trichomes is implicated in the infection sites in hosts of TMV. Virus accumulation on ruptured epidermis and broken trichomes of non-hosts indicates that susceptibility is determined by other factors. Limitations of the autoradiographic method are discussed.
Interactive object modeling & labeling for service robots

We present an interactive object modeling and labeling system for service robots. The system enables a user to interactively create object models for a set of objects. Users also provide a label for each object, allowing it to be referenced later. Interaction with the robot occurs via a combination of a smartphone UI and pointing gestures.
Existential Beliefs, Social Satisfaction, and Well-Being Among Catholic, Jewish, and Protestant Older Adults

Religiousness, spirituality, and existential beliefs are important sources of well-being yet neither their specific effects nor group variation in them is well understood. In a sample of more than 1,000 older adults, we found that certain existential beliefs or concerns (fear of God, death anxiety, belief in life after death, concerns about being mourned) are correlates of well-being in older adults and differed across religious groups. Protestants reported better well-being than Catholics and Jews. Differences in social satisfaction and existential concerns partially explained these differences, which were not explained by demographics. These results suggest the importance of studying well-being and religion in a way that appreciates the differences among religious groups and further of looking at the specific beliefs of different groups.
Prevalence of shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes at public access watershed sites in a California Central Coast agricultural region

Produce contaminated with enteric pathogens is a major source of foodborne illness in the United States. Lakes, streams, rivers, and ponds were sampled with Moore swabs bi-monthly for over two years at 30 locations in the vicinity of a leafy green growing region on the Central California Coast and screened for Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes to evaluate the prevalence and persistence of pathogen subtypes. The prevalence of STEC from 1,386 samples was 11%; 110 samples (8%) contained E. coli O157:H7 with the highest prevalence occurring close to cattle operations. Non-O157 STEC isolates represented major clinical O-types and 57% contained both shiga toxin types 1 and 2 and intimin. Multiple Locus Variable Number Tandem Repeat Analysis of STEC isolates indicated prevalent strains during the period of study. Notably, Salmonella was present at high levels throughout the sampling region with 65% prevalence in 1,405 samples resulting in 996 isolates with slightly lower prevalence in late autumn. There were 2, 8 and 14 sites that were Salmonella-positive over 90%, 80% and 70% of the time, respectively. The serotypes identified most often were 6,8:d:-, Typhimurium, and Give. Interestingly, analysis by Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis indicated persistence and transport of pulsotypes in the region over several years. In this original study of L. monocytogenes in the region prevalence was 43% of 1,405 samples resulting in 635 individual isolates. Over 85% of the isolates belonged to serotype 4b with serotypes 1/2a, 1/2b, 3a, 4d with 4e representing the rest, and there were 12 and 2 sites that were positive over 50% and 80% of the time, respectively. Although surface water is not directly used for irrigation in this region, transport to the produce can occur by other means. This environmental survey assesses initial contamination levels towards an understanding of transport leading to produce recalls or outbreaks.
Synthesis and characterization of amplified DNA in oocytes of the house cricket, Acheta domesticus (Orthoptera: Gryllidae).

At a time in the life cycle when a large proportion of the oocytes of Acheta incorporate 3H-thymidine into an extrachromosomal DNA body, synthesis of a satellite or minor band DNA, the density of which is greater than main band DNA, is readily detected. Synthesis of the satellite DNA is not detectable in tissues, the cells of which do not have a DNA body, or in ovaries in which synthesis of extrachromosomal DNA by the oocytes is completed. The DNA body contains the amplified genes which code for ribosomal RNA. However, less than 1 percent of the satellite DNA, all of which appears to be amplified in the oocyte, is complementary to ribosomal 18S and 28S RNA. In situ hybridization demonstrates that non-ribosomal elements, like the ribosomal elements of the satellite DNA, are localized in the DNA body.
Future Directions in Manufacturing Science

The mission of the SRC is to (1) enhance the competitiveness of the U.S. semiconductor industry through the support of university and institutional research and education, personnel training and the development of skills required by industry, and the identification of key industry/government issues with recommendations for appropriate university research and/or independent industry/government response. Emphasis is on a core program that is directed to (1) the creation and maintenance of a generic research base in integrated circuit technologies in the U.S. university community, (2) ensuring a continuing supply of highly qualified students to support the growth and continuing innovation within the industry (and the faculty required to educate them), and (3) the broadening of the U.S. university base of microelectronics research and education through establishment of centers of excellence, seeding of new efforts, and development of new curricula.
Study of optically induced effects due to bending and twisting using the vector finite-element method

We study the effects of macroscopic bends and twists in an optical waveguide and how they influence the transmission capabilities of a waveguide. These mechanical stresses and strains distort the optical indicatrix of the medium, producing optical anistropy. The spatially varying refractive indices are incorporated into the full-wave Maxwell's equations. The governing equations are discretized by using a vector finite-element method cast in a high-order finite element approximation. This approach allows us to study the complexities of the mechanical deformation within a framework of a high-order formulation that can, in turn, reduce the computational requirement without degrading its performance. The optical activities generated, total energy produced, and power loss due to the mechanical stresses and strains are reported and discussed.
Intensity based nonparametric image registration

Image registration is used widely in applications for mapping one image to another. Existing image registration methods are either feature-based or intensity-based. Feature-based methods first extract relevant image features, and then find a geometrical transformation that best matches the two corresponding sets of features extracted from the two images. Because identification and extraction of image features is often a challenging and time-consuming process, intensity-based image registration, by which the mapping transformation is estimated directly from the observed image intensities of the two images, has received much attention recently. In the literature, most existing intensity-based image registration methods require a parametric form of the mapping transformation, which is restrictive for certain applications. In this paper, we propose an intensity-based image registration method without requiring such a parametric form. By this method, the mapping transformation can be nonparametric, and it can even be discontinuous at certain places in the design space. Numerical examples show that it is effective in various applications.
Molecular surface electrostatic potentials and local ionization energies of Group V–VII hydrides and their anions: Relationships for aqueous and gas-phase acidities

We have computed ab initio HF/6-31+G* electrostatic potentials and average local ionization energies on the molecular surfaces of the Group V–VII hydrides and corresponding anions of the first three rows of the periodic table. The surfaces were defined to be specified contours (0.002 or 0.001 au) of the molecular electronic density. The most negative potentials, VS,min, and lowest ionization energies ĪS,min, were located and determined. Their magnitudes separately satisfy limited correlations with gas-phase protonation enthalpies and aqueous pKa values. Our results indicate that VS,min, and ĪS,min are complementary, the former reflecting electrostatic factors and the latter being related to charge transfer/polarization. More general relationships for protonation enthalpies are obtained when both VS,min and ĪS,min are explicitly included. Solution-phase and gas-phase acidities are shown to correlate very well if electrostatic effects are explicitly taken into account. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The status of the K-BKZ model within the framework of materials with multiple natural configurations

In this paper we show how the K-BKZ model fits in within a thermodynamic framework for describing the response of materials undergoing dissipative processes. The K-BKZ model is shown to arise naturally within this framework by choosing appropriate forms for the stored energy and the rate of dissipation for describing the material. It is also shown that by relaxing some of the assumptions that lead to a K-BKZ model, it is possible to derive a host of other fluid models that are generalizations of the K-BKZ model.
1742 TREATMENT OF AIDS ASSOCIATED LYMPHOID INTERSTITIAL PNEUMONITIS WITH INTRAVENOUS GAMMAGLOBULIN AND PREDNISONE

6 children with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and biopsy proven lymphoid interstitial pneumonitis were treated on a protocol of intravenous gammaglobulin and corticosteroids. Indications for therapy were a clinical history of severe and/or recurrent episodes of respiratory distress responsive to intravenous antibiotics and hypoxemia persisting after resolution of the acute illness. Hypoxemia was defined as a pO2>70 torr on three determinations. Therapy consisted of an initial period of loading with intravenous gammaglobulin. Duration and dosage of loading varied with the severity of the clinical circumstances. Corticosteroids were then initiated at 1-2 mg/kg/day and tapered to 0.75-1.0mg/kg on alternate days within 6-8 weeks. Prior to therapy the mean alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient (AaDO2) was 47 torr and the mean pO2 was 52 torr. After one month of therapy the mean AaDO2 was 21 torr and pO2 was 80 torr. At three months follow-up AaDO2 was 15 torr and pO2 79 torr. In the two patients treated for twelve months, AaDO2 and pO2 remained stable at 16 torr and 89 torr respectively. In vitro immunologic responses were not suppressed by the alternate day corticosteroid treatment.
The reproducibility of A40/K40 age determinations

Techniques used in A40/K40 age determinations are discussed. The reproducibility of the method as studied by replicate determinations on the same sample and on different samples from a rock unit is within five per cent of the age of the rock. A40/K40 age determinations are given for a group of samples, and the results are compared with ages obtained in other laboratories using the same samples.
DNA-PK phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 is required to prevent apoptosis in retinal endothelial cells cultured in high glucose.

Purpose. The goal of this study was to determine whether Compound 49b stimulates insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) activation in retinal endothelial cells (REC) through DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK).
The problem of choosing between predicate and function notation for problem representation

This article is the sixteenth of a series of articles discussing various open research problems in automated reasoning. Here we focus on choosing between the use of predicates and the use of functions for representing information to an automated reasoning program. The problem proposed for research asks one to find criteria that dictate the most effective choice of notation-functions or predicates-for presenting the question to be studied. The criteria must reflect the close coupling between inference rule, strategy, and representation. We suggest possible test problems for evaluating a proposed solution to this research problem.
On the asymptotic behavior of the independence number of a random (n, n)-tree

An (r, s)-tree is a connected, acyclic, bipartite graph withr light ands dark vertices. Uniform probability is assigned to the space,Γ(r, s), of (r, s)-trees. In this paper, we apply the probabilistic method to determine bounds for the vertex and the edge independence numbers for almost all (n, n)-trees inΓ(n,n). Consequently, we find that for almost all (n, n)-trees the percentage of dark vertices in a maximum matching is at least 72%.
Mechanical Properties of a Ceramic Coating With VEM Infiltration

In order to determine the mechanical properties of materials suitable for use as coatings on structural or gas turbine components, it is often necessary to conduct testing on coated specimens, with the properties of the coating then to be extracted from the response. A methodology for extracting material properties from comparisons of resonant frequencies and system loss factors for coated and uncoated beams, which is applicable even when the desired properties (storage and loss modulus) have a strong dependence on the amplitude of cyclic strain, is summarized and applied to the determination of the material properties of an air plasma sprayed alumina-titania blend ceramic to which a viscoelastic material has been added by vacuum infiltration. Tests were conducted at both room and elevated temperatures. Material properties obtained from specimens with three coating thicknesses are compared and show that values obtained for the stiffness (storage modulus) decrease with increasing coating thickness, but that values obtained for the measure of dissipative capacity (loss modulus) are essentially independent of thickness. Addition of the infiltrate was found to double the storage modulus and to increase the loss modulus at room temperature by factors of up to 3, depending on the amplitude of cyclic strain. The storage modulus of this infiltrated coating appears to diminish with increasing depth into the coating, suggesting dependence on the amount of infiltrate present. The loss modulus, however, appears to be comparatively insensitive to the amount of infiltrate present. Results from a limited investigation of the influence of increased temperature on the properties of the infiltrated coating show decreases in storage modulus with temperature, and a maximum in the loss modulus at a temperature determined by the temperature dependent properties of the specific viscoelastic material used as the infiltrate.
Orientational dynamics of transient molecules measured by nonequilibrium two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy

Transient two-dimensional infrared (2DIR) spectroscopy is applied to the photodissociation of Mn2(CO)10 to 2 Mn(CO)5 in cyclohexane solution. By varying both the time delay between the 400 nm phototrigger and the 2DIR probe as well as the waiting time in the 2DIR pulse sequence, we directly determine the orientational relaxation of the vibrationally hot photoproduct. The orientational relaxation slows as the photoproduct cools, providing a measure of the transient temperature decay time of 70 ± 16 ps. We compare the experimental results with molecular dynamics simulations and find near quantitative agreement for equilibrium orientational diffusion time constants but only qualitative agreement for nonequilibrium thermal relaxation. The simulation also shows that the experiment probes an unusual regime of thermal excitation, where the solute is heated while the solvent remains essentially at room temperature.
Inhibitory conditioning in honeybees

Honeybees were rewarded with sucrose solution for choosing AX(a grey target, X, labelled with a distinctive stimulus, A) rather than ABX (a grey target labelled both with A and with another distinctive stimulus, B)–AX+/ABX– training. Tests of independent groups made after such training showed a clear preference not only for AX over ABX, but also for ABX over BX, and for X over BX. These experiments, along with some earlier ones to which they bring a new perspective, provide persuasive evidence, previously lacking, of inhibitory conditioning in honeybees.
Geochemistry of Precambrian mafic dikes, central Bighorn Mountains, Wyoming, U.S.A.

Abstract Precambrian quartz dolerites and metadolerites of the central Bighorn Mountains form dikes that intrude a Precambrian metamorphic and igneous terrane typical of the Laramide uplifts of the middle Rocky Mountains. They have a restricted range of major- and trace-element compositions and are typical of basalts in the middle stages of tholeiitic fractionation. Fractionation in the direction of iron enrichment occurred by removal of plagioclase. Average element concentrations of the two groups are nearly identical to one another, are comparable to those in Archean metabasalts from numerous shield areas, and are intermediate between those of modern oceanic tholeiites and continental tholeiites. These average concentrations suggest a depth of magma generation and thickness of crust intermediate between those for the oceanic and continental environments.
Solution method for the lidar equation

In order to increase the spatial resolution of a lidar system without shortening the laser pulses a new signal evaluation method procedure is proposed. The convolution type lidar equation is approximated by a system of linear equations which can easily be solved. For reducing the noise the evaluation of a series of pulses is investigated. A numerical simulation of the proposed scheme is presented which clearly shows the increase of spatial resolution.
Structured coalescent with nonconservative migration

We study the ancestral process of a sample from a subdivided population with stochastically varying subpopulation sizes. The sizes of the subpopulations change very rapidly (almost every generation) with respect to the coalescent time scale. For haploid populations of size N , one coalescence time unit corresponds to N generations. Coalescence and migration events occur on the same time scale. We show that, when the total population size tends to infinity, the structured coalescent is obtained, thus confirming the robustness of the coalescent. Many population structure models have been shown to converge to the structured coalescent (see Herbots (1997), Hudson (1998), Nordborg (2001), Nordborg and Krone (2002), and Notohara (1990)).
A technique for rigid fixation of methyl methacrylate cranioplasty: the vault-locking method

BACKGROUND Current treatment of difficult to reach lesions of the central nervous system favors extensive bone removal for improved visualization and access with minimal brain retraction. Particularly in the posterior fossa, bone is often removed piecemeal, and a standard craniotomy flap is not always available for simple reattachment. Cranioplasty with methyl methacrylate is used to provide cosmesis and neural protection. A method for the fixation of methyl methacrylate cranioplasty is described, and the results of technique application in 30 patients during a 14-month period are reported. METHODS A series of notches are burred in the cancellous margin of the surrounding cranium, preserving the inner and outer tables. Methyl methacrylate is applied to the defect. Overflow of methyl methacrylate into the notches assures solid fixation. The resultant construct resembles the locking mechanism of a bank vault. No mesh, wire, or miniplates are required. Prolene buttresses may be placed through the outer table of the notches to identify their location, should removal of the plasty be required. Removal of the outer table over the notches facilitates rapid removal. RESULTS Solid plasty and good cosmesis occurred in all patients. There were no infections or complications related to this technique. CONCLUSIONS Firm fixation, molding and hardening in situ, and technical ease are potential advantages over established methods of cranioplasty.
Mark–recapture estimates of recruitment, survivorship and population growth rate for the screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax

Pradel model mark-release-recapture estimates of survivorship, phi, recruitment, f, and the rate of density-independent population growth, lambda, are presented for eight mark-recapture studies of the screwworm Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) from Costa Rica, totalling 19 573 released and 4476 recaptured flies. Corroborative estimates of survivorship and the rate of population growth based on an extensive review of the literature are also reported. Weighted-mean +/- standard error of the mean (SEM) mark-release-recapture estimates of survivorship, recruitment and the rate of population growth were phi = 0.798 +/- 0.008, f = 0.193 +/- 0.008 and lambda = 1.005 +/- 0.002, respectively. Population doubling time was estimated from lambda at 139 days. Estimates of phi and lambda from the literature both exceeded those calculated by mark-recapture methods and estimates of population doubling times were consequently shorter.
Dietary lithium induces regional increases of mRNA encoding cysteine string protein in rat brain.

Lithium salts are used to treat manic-depressive disorders; however, the mechanism by which lithium produces its therapeutic benefit remains obscure. The action of lithium may involve alterations of proteins important for regulating synaptic function. In this context, we observed recently that lithium at therapeutically relevant concentrations enhanced expression of cysteine string protein (csp) at the level of both mRNA and protein, in cell culture and in rat brain. Several lines of evidence have shown that csps are vital components of the regulated secretory pathway. We were interested whether lithium modulates expression of csp in specific brain regions. To study this issue, we analyzed the effects of chronic lithium administration (21 days) on csp mRNA levels in rat brain using in situ hybridization. Densitometric analysis revealed that lithium upregulated csp mRNA in several brain areas that are important for mood and behavior. This effect may be germane to understanding the beneficial action of lithium in mood disorders. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Old Faithful Model for Radiolytic Gas-Driven Cryovolcanism at Enceladus

A new model is presented on how chemically driven cryovolcanism might contribute to episodic outgassing at the icy moon Enceladus and potentially elsewhere including Europa and Kuiper Belt Objects. Exposed water ices can become oxidized from radiolytic chemical alteration of near-surface water ice by space environment irradiation. In contact with primordially abundant reductants such as NH3, CH4, and other hydrocarbons, the product oxidants can react exothermically to produce volatile gases driving cryovolcanism via gas-piston forces on any subsurface liquid reservoirs. Radiolytic oxidants such as H2O2 and O2 can continuously accumulate deep in icy regoliths and be conveyed by rheological flows to subsurface chemical reaction zones over million-year time scales indicated by cratering ages for active regions of Enceladus and Europa. Surface blanketing with cryovolcanic plume ejecta would further accelerate regolith burial of radiolytic oxidants. Episodic heating from transient gravitational tides, radioisotope decay, impacts, or other geologic events might occasionally accelerate chemical reaction rates and ignite the exothermic release of cumulative radiolytic oxidant energy. The time history for the suggested "Old Faithful" model of radiolytic gas-driven cryovolcanism at Enceladus and elsewhere therefore consists of long periods of chemical energy accumulation punctuated by much briefer episodes of cryovolcanic activity. The most probable sequence for detection of activity in the current epoch is a long evolutionary phase of slow but continuous oxidant accumulation over billions of years followed by continuous but variable high activity over the past 10(exp 7)-10(exp 8) years. Detectable cryovolcanic activity could then later decline due to near-total oxidation of the rheologically accessible ice crust and depletion the accessible reductant abundances, as may have already occurred for Europa in the more intense radiation environment of Jupiter's magnetosphere. Astrobiological potential of Enceladus could correspondingly be higher than at Europa due to a less extreme state of oxidation and greater residual abundance of organics.
Search complexity and resource scaling for the quantum optimal control of unitary transformations

The optimal control of unitary transformations is a fundamental problem in quantum control theory and quantum information processing. The feasibility of performing such optimizations is determined by the computational and control resources required, particularly for systems with large Hilbert spaces. Prior work on unitary transformation control indicates that (i) for controllable systems, local extrema in the search landscape for optimal control of quantum gates have null measure, facilitating the convergence of local search algorithms, but (ii) the required time for convergence to optimal controls can scale exponentially with the Hilbert space dimension. Depending on the control-system Hamiltonian, the landscape structure and scaling may vary. This work introduces methods for quantifying Hamiltonian-dependent and kinematic effects on control optimization dynamics in order to classify quantum systems according to the search effort and control resources required to implement arbitrary unitary transformations.
Sodium Concentration of Selected Dairy Products and Acceptability of a Sodium Substitute in Cottage Cheese

Abstract Twenty-five samples of cottage cheese collected from processors and local markets in Tennesse in a 2-day period contained an average of 4.57mg sodium/g. Samples collected over longer time had an average concentration of 3.78mg sodium/g, and lowfat cottage cheese had an average of 3.22 mg/g. Buttermilk contained an average of 1.14mg sodium/g; regular vanilla ice cream averaged .83 mg/g, and "no stabilizer added" vanilla ice cream had an average of .59 mg/g. Sodium in lowfat chocolate milk averaged .83 mg/g and French onion dip 5.33 mg/g. One brand of yogurt contained .76 mg/g and another brand 1.69 mg/g. A salt substitute containing equal concentrations of sodium chloride and potassium chloride was used in the creaming mixture for cottage cheese. Taste panel results showed that cottage cheese containing 1.26% sodium chloride, 1.26% salt substitute, or .63% of each had similar flavor scores.
Hypothermia tolerance in guinea pigs with experimental myasthenia gravis.

Abstract Hypothermia tolerance was studied in guinea pigs with experimental myasthenia gravis induced by immunization with homologous thymus extract and Freund's complete adjuvant. Untreated guinea pigs and guinea pigs immunized with liver extract and Freund's complete adjuvant served as controls. Thymus-immunized guinea pigs survived to a significantly lower temperature at asystole than did the liver-immunized controls. This finding is consistent with a slight diminution in temperature maintenance mechanisms in guinea pigs with experimental autoimmune thymitis. The observed increase in hypothermia tolerance may be due to impaired shivering as a consequence of the partial neuromuscular block demonstrable in the myasthenia gravislike state.
Induction of surface exclusion (entry exclusion) by Streptococcus faecalis sex pheromones: use of monoclonal antibodies to identify an inducible surface antigen involved in the exclusion process.

Abstract The Streptococcus faecalis plasmid pCF-10 is representative of a class of plasmids that enables its host cells to respond to sex pheromones produced by other S. faecalis cells. The pheromone response has been previously shown to result in increased conjugal plasmid transfer, cell clumping, and multiple cell-surface antigenic changes. To test for other effects of pheromone induction, cells carrying pCF-10 were used as recipients in matings with an isogenic donor strain carrying a derivative of pCF-10, tagged with a transposon to provide an additional selective marker. Pheromone induction of the "male recipients" decreased their recipient ability by a factor of 10-300 in comparison to uninduced cells or plasmid-free recipients. These results indicate that an entry exclusion (surface exclusion) function, similar to that described in studies of plasmids in Gram-negative bacteria, is induced during the S. faecalis pheromone response process. The exclusion operates only against homologous plasmids. Immunological, biochemical, and genetic experiments using monoclonal antibodies reactive with C130, the predominant protein antigen associated with the pheromone response of cells carrying pCF-10, indicate that this antigen is involved in surface exclusion. The data also support the notion that synthesis of C130 involves a posttranslational modification of a precursor of C130 to a final product of higher molecular weight form.
Developments in the durability of FRP-concrete bond

Abstract Externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer composites (FRP) are widely used for the repair and strengthening of concrete structures. Since loads are transferred to FRP through its bond with the concrete substrate, its integrity in aggressive outdoor environments is critically important. This paper provides an overview of recent developments: it reviews findings from exposure studies, reports on advances in deterioration modeling, identifies non-destructive methods suitable for field evaluation, and addresses emerging developments in design, specifications and product approval. Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) is the most widely used material in infrastructure applications and therefore its durability is the primary focus of the paper.
Pediatric Crohn's disease: risk factors for postoperative recurrence

OBJECTIVE: Postoperative recurrence of Crohn’s disease in adults has been extensively studied; however, the course of Crohn’s disease after surgery in children has not been well defined. The aim of this study was to examine the postoperative course of pediatric Crohn’s disease and the factors that may predict early postoperative recurrence. METHODS: We identified 100 resective surgeries in 79 children with Crohn’s disease seen at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia between 1978 and 1996. A retrospective, multivariable analysis of factors potentially influencing postoperative clinical recurrence was performed. Preoperative and postoperative height measurements were compared, and z scores were computed for height-for-age. Two-tailed t test was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Clinical recurrence rates were 17% at 1 yr, 38% at 3 yr, and 60% at 5 yr. Patients with colonic Crohn’s disease had a significantly shorter postoperative recurrence-free interval (median 1.2 yr) than patients with ileocecal (median 4.4 yr) or diffuse disease (median 3.0 yr) (p = 0.01). On multivariable analysis, a high Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index at the time of surgery (p = 0.01) and preoperative use of 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) (p < 0.005) were also independently associated with higher postoperative recurrence rates. There was a significant improvement in z scores for height (p = 0.04) after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: In children undergoing resective surgery for Crohn’s disease, high rates of postoperative Crohn’s disease recurrence are associated with severe disease at the time of surgery, colonic Crohn’s disease, and the preoperative use of 6-MP. Patients who require preoperative use of 6-MP are likely to suffer from a more aggressive disease and would benefit from postoperative 6-MP prophylaxis. Height growth was improved after intestinal resection for Crohn’s disease.
Effects of an adult's presence and praise on young children's performance

Abstract The separate effects of praise from an adult and the presence of that adult on preschool children's performance rate change at a simple motor task were studied for 32 4-year-old children of each sex. Following a base-line minute during which the experimenter was present but nonresponsive to the subject, the child was assigned to one of four experimental groups for the next 5 min in which the experimenter: (a) either made supportive comments or remained nonresponsive, and (b) either remained present or was absent behind a screen. The session was completed by a 5-min extinction phase in which the base-line conditions were reinstituted. The major finding was that performance increased under both adult praise and adult presence, with the effects being additive: performance increase was highest when the adult was present and praising the child, and lowest (actually decreasing) when the adult was absent and nonresponsive to the child. The reintroduction of the experimenter during extinction also facilitated performance. The results were related to previous research on both social reinforcement and imitation, and several developmental changes were hypothesized for the effects of both adult reactions and an adult's presence.
A new species of the morid genus gadella (teleostei: gadiformes) from the galápagos islands

A new species of deepwater morid fish,Gadella thysthlon, is described on the basis of five specimens from the Galapagos Islands. It differs from other species ofGadella by its low dorsal and anal fin ray counts (8+56–58 and 64–66 respectively), moderate number of gill rakers (4–5+9–11), small luminous organ that is closer to the anus than the interventral line, and its dark body, bright red-orange median fins with dark bases, and melanophores on the tongue apex and the palatal midline.
Prevention of severe neurologic events in the thrombolytic era

The occurrence of various forms of severe neurologic events has been increasingly reported in acute myocardial infarction patients receiving thrombolytic therapy. Strokes have long been known to complicate acute myocardial infarction. The recent attention on severe neurologic events has focused primarily on probable cerebral bleeds. The various forms of severe neurologic events that clinicians are confronted with have unique features and characteristics that will be delineated. The incidence of these events and patient risk factors for cerebral ischemia and cerebral hemorrhage will be outlined. Guidelines that should be adopted to minimize the chance of a patient's suffering a severe neurologic event while at the same time maximizing the number of patients who receive this lifesaving therapy are summarized.
The impact of the soil environment on the growth of root systems

Abstract There are numerous environmental factors that can influence the growth and function of plant root systems. The impact of some of the major soil-related factors such as soil temperature, soil water, soil air, soil strength, and soil nutrient supply on the development of roots is reviewed. Emphasis has been placed on the interaction of these factors with each other and with the genetic diversity inherent in plant roots in determining the impact of the soil environment on root growth and ultimately on plant productivity.
Recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma is relatively chemoresistant.

Abstract Purpose Previous studies have suggested that low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma is more chemoresistant to first-line or neoadjuvant chemotherapy than high-grade serous carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to further characterize this chemoresistance in recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma. Methods From a 1990–2007 search of the departmental databases at our institution, we identified recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma patients; abstracted chemotherapy response information from the medical records of those whose disease was: 1) histologically-confirmed, 2) measurable or evaluable, and 3) treated with chemotherapy; and retrospectively reviewed these data. Response was determined based on modified RECIST. Time to progression and overall survival were also calculated. Results We identified 58 evaluable patients with recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma who received 108 separate chemotherapy regimens ("patient-regimens"), which produced 4 responses—(1 complete and 3 partial; overall response rate, 3.7%). The overall response rate for the platinum-sensitive cohort was 4.9%, and for the platinum-resistant cohort, 2.1%. Stable disease was observed in 65 (60.2%) of 108 patient-regimens. Median overall survival was 87.1 months. The median time to progression was 29.0 weeks (34.7, platinum-sensitive cohort; 26.4, platinum-resistant cohort) ( P =0.32). Conclusions Compared with high-grade ovarian cancers, recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma appears relatively chemoresistant. Whether the latter's high rate of stable disease owes more to the tumor's biology or the influence of chemotherapy remains unclear. Based on these findings, phase II trials of novel targeted agents in recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma are warranted.
Are fibroblast growth factors regulators of myogenesis in vivo

Recent advances in understanding of skeletal muscle differentiation implicate fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) as regulators of myogenesis; however, the identity and actions of factors that repress myogenesis in vivo remain to be established. This review will focus on the fibroblast growth factor family and the evidence for its role in regulating myogenesis in culture and in vivo.
Acquisition of hearing aids and assistive listening devices among the pediatric hearing-impaired population

Abstract Sufficient access to health care is of concern to the indigent population in the US and to their health care providers. This study was undertaken to elucidate the rate of the follow-up among lower socioeconomic hearing-impaired pediatric patients who had received a recommendation for hearing aids and/or assistive listening devices. Our question was, would the families’ financial situation have a negative effect on the acquisition of hearing aids and assistive listening devices? Fifty patients, age 0–18 years, who had been seen in our clinic over 2 years were evaluated via a telephone survey. The survey consisted of seven questions, including whether or not the devices or aids were obtained, what type was purchased, where the device was being used, and the child’s apparent performance with the device. Eighty-two percent of our patients were on TennCare, a state mandated Medicaid HMO system. Two-thirds of these TennCare patients are at or below the poverty level and the remaining one-third is either disabled or uninsurable according to the Aid for Dependent Children (AFDC) with indeterminate income. In addition the TennCare organization did not cover hearing amplification equipment for these children. The study showed that the majority of the patients did follow-up as recommended. Furthermore, this equipment is easily obtainable for the pediatric indigent population due to financial resources available in the community outside the mandated Medicaid system.
Elderly casino gambling behavior: marketing implications.

ABSTRACT More elderly individuals are gambling, and, as the “Baby Boomers” age, the elderly will represent an increasingly important customer for casinos. Regression analysis was used to determine whether southern Nevada elderly were more likely to gamble in casinos than the non-elderly. Overall, the elderly were not more likely to gamble than the non-elderly, but elderly females were more likely to gamble than non-elderly females. The typical elderly female gambler was a recent arrival to southern Nevada, smoked cigarettes, had no college education, and was not low income. Casinos should develop strategies to market to the elderly female gambler that focus on personal safety, socialization, and basic gambling education.
Optimal job fragmentation

It has been recently discovered that on an unreliable server, the job completion time distribution function (df) can be heavy-tailed (HT) even when job size df is light-tailed (LT) [1, 5]. A key to this phenomenon is the RESTART feature where if a job is interrupted in the middle of its processing, the entire job needs to restart from the beginning, i.e., the work that is partially completed is lost. A standard mechanism for reducing the job completion time in an unreliable service environment is checkpointing [3, 4, 6]. We view checkpointing as a job fragmentation operation, where the server processes one fragment of the job at a time. If the server becomes unavailable, say due to failure, then only the work corresponding to the fragment being processed at the time of failure is lost. In this paper, we are motivated by the question: Can fragmentation ‘lighten’ the tail df of the completion time? In Section 3, we provide sufficient conditions on the fragmentation policy that gives rise to LT completion time so long as the job size df is LT. We then characterize the optimal fragmentation policy seeking to minimize the expected job completion time. This policy requires a priori knowledge of the job size. We then describe a sub-optimal fragmentation policy that is blind to the job size and is provably very close to optimal. We also describe the asymptotic tail behavior of the job completion time df under both policies. Assuming the server unavailability periods are LT, both policies produce LT completion times when the job size df is LT. For the case of regularly varying job size df, the job completion time under both policies is regularly varying with the same degree - this is the lightest possible asymptotic tail behavior (in the degree sense).
Suppression of calcium release by calcium or procaine in voltage clamped rat skeletal muscle fibres

1. Calcium transients were measured in fast-twitch rat skeletal muscle fibres stretched to 3.7-4.0 microns per sarcomere, and voltage clamped at a holding potential of -80 mV using the double-seal Vaseline gap technique. Resting calcium was monitored with fura-2 and the calcium transients were measured with antipyrylazo III. The rate of release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum was calculated from the calcium transient records. The temperature was 14-17 degrees C. 2. The steady-state calcium dependence of inactivation of release was studied with a two-pulse protocol in which 200 ms prepulses of different amplitudes elevated the internal calcium concentration to various levels. The inactivation of release was then measured in the test pulse that followed the prepulses. The calcium concentration at which the inactivation of release are half-maximal was approximately 0.22 microM, the average number of bound calcium ions needed to cause inactivation was about three per release channel and the amount of release that could be inactivated was, on average, 2.48 times the steady level of release during the test pulses. 3. Procaine (0.3mM) reversibly decreased the amplitude and the rate of rise of the calcium transient. Both the peak and the steady level of release were decreased by about 50%. The shape of the release waveform was not modified.
Immigrant Health Inequalities in the United States: Use of Eight Major National Data Systems

Eight major federal data systems, including the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS), National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), National Survey of Children's Health, National Longitudinal Mortality Study, and American Community Survey, were used to examine health differentials between immigrants and the US-born across the life course. Survival and logistic regression, prevalence, and age-adjusted death rates were used to examine differentials. Although these data systems vary considerably in their coverage of health and behavioral characteristics, ethnic-immigrant groups, and time periods, they all serve as important research databases for understanding the health of US immigrants. The NVSS and NHIS, the two most important data systems, include a wide range of health variables and many racial/ethnic and immigrant groups. Immigrants live 3.4 years longer than the US-born, with a life expectancy ranging from 83.0 years for Asian/Pacific Islander immigrants to 69.2 years for US-born blacks. Overall, immigrants have better infant, child, and adult health and lower disability and mortality rates than the US-born, with immigrant health patterns varying across racial/ethnic groups. Immigrant children and adults, however, fare substantially worse than the US-born in health insurance coverage and access to preventive health services. Suggestions and new directions are offered for improvements in health monitoring and for strengthening and developing databases for immigrant health assessment in the USA.
Snapping biceps femoris tendon treated with an anatomic repair

Three patients were seen for pain and snapping over the lateral aspect of their symptomatic knee during deep knee flexion. On physical examination, each patient had subluxation of the long head of the biceps over the lateral aspect of the fibular head. Each patient underwent an anatomic repair of the torn anterior arms of the short and long biceps femoris to their anatomic insertion sites with suture anchors. All patients had normal return of function without pain or further subluxation events.
Creep crack growth in power plant materials

Economic considerations have made it desirable to extend the 30 to 40 year operating life of power plants by another 10 to 20 years. Crack growth at elevated temperatures is an important consideration in estimating the remaining life, determining operating conditions and deciding inspection criteria and intervals for power plant materials. This paper presents an overview of high-temperature crack growth phenomenon in such materials. The focus is on various techniques used for characterizing creep crack growth (CCG) and creep-fatigue crack growth (CFCG) in high-temperature materials. The collection of data, their analysis and the interpretation of results is discussed in detail, especially for CFCG laboratory testing. The discussion is primarily focussed on creep-ductile materials such as those used in power plant applications. Special considerations for elevated temperature crack growth in weldments are also presented. Finally, the application of these concepts to the life prediction of power plant components is also discussed.
Does it Get Easier to Use an EHR? Report from an Urban Regional Extension Center

BACKGROUND Little is known about whether more experience with an electronic health record (EHR) makes it easier for providers to meaningfully use EHRs.