cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Origin of Reddened and Melted Zones in Pleistocene Sediments of the Olorgesailie Basin, Southern Kenya Rift

Hardened red zones and rare melt rocks are puzzling and rare features in the Middle Pleistocene sediments of the Olorgesailie Formation of the southern Kenya Rift. We propose that combustion metamorphism and melting produced these zones. This is evidenced by field observations, chemical composition, X-ray diffraction and melting experiments. Plant-rich beds and disbursed plant matter served as fuel. Probably lightning generated surface fires that ignited carbonaceous beds exposed in gullies. The burning then proceeded underground. Melt rocks and red thermally metamorphosed zones within beds distinguish combustion metamorphism from reddening of paleosols by surface vegetation fires. Diagenetic oxidation has removed much of the carbonaceous material from the paleosols and marsh deposits, except where they are included in dense metasediments. Extraordinarily high temperatures of about 1200°C, which are essential to producing the melt rocks, required plant matter buildup, burial of the plant fuel under at most a few metres of sediment, and then rapid burning under dry conditions. This sequence of events points to one or more extreme droughts between 601,000 and 493,000 years ago, the period represented by upper Member 12 and Member 13 of the Olorgesailie Formation. Combustion metamorphism was not recognized in early studies at Olorgesailie, partly because it is not a widely taught nor published subject. Other Pleistocene East African basins and similar sites may contain as yet unrecognized products of combustion metamorphism that may prove of paleoclimatological importance.
Neuropeptide Y in hamster limbic nuclei: Lack of colocalization with substance P

Abstract The medial nucleus of the amygdala (Me), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), and medial preoptic area (MPOA) regulate copulation in the male hamster. The present study identified neuropeptide Y-immunoreactive (NPY-IR) neurons in the BNST and Me with the greatest concentration in the posteromedial and posteriordorsal subdivisions of these nuclei, respectively. NPY-IR fibers are found in all three nuclei with dense plexi of NPY-IR varicosities in the most medial subdivisions. Substance P neurons are also densely concentrated in the posterior BNST and Me; however, no neurons contained both peptides. Thus, NPY and substance P neurons comprise two distinct populations within the BNST and Me of the hamster.
Image intensification with color capability

Image intensifiers applied to low light level phenomena provide outputs restricted to the color of the output phosphor. In many applications the ability to provide an image in color, or even color information, is desirable. A design of an intensifier system that can present images in color is described. A feasibility demonstration is presented, utilizing an intensified grating spectroscope.
Dental injury associated with anesthesia: a report of 161,687 anesthetics given over 14 years.

Abstract Study Objective To determine the frequency, outcomes, and risk factors for dental injury related to anesthesia. Design Case-control study. Setting Tertiary-care university hospital. Patients Patients who had a perianesthetic dental injury between August of 1989 and December 31, 2003. Measurements A 1:2 case control study was done to identify the frequency, outcomes, and risk factors for dental injury. Perianesthetic dental injuries were defined as any notable change to the patient's dentition during the perianesthetic period that may or may not have required dental consultation or treatment. Main Results Seventy-eight patients with perianesthetic dental injury were identified. The incidence of dental injury was one per 2,073 anesthetics. Eighty-six percent of dental injuries were discovered by the anesthesia provider. Maxillary incisors were the most frequently injured teeth. The most commonly reported injuries were enamel fracture, loosened or subluxated teeth, tooth avulsion, and crown or root fracture. Patients with poor dentition or reconstructive work, whose tracheas were moderately difficult or difficult to intubate, were at much higher risk (approximately 20-fold) of dental injury than those with good dentition and found to be easy to intubate. Among those whose tracheas were easy to intubate, patients with poor dentition or reconstructive work were 3.4 times more likely to have dental injuries related to anesthesia. Conclusions Dental injury is one of the most common adverse events reported in association with anesthesia. Risk factors include preexisting poor dentition or reconstructive work and moderately difficult to difficult intubation.
Dakin's solution: past, present, and future.

ABSTRACTDakin’s solution has been used for almost a century. It is a dilute solution of sodium hypochlorite, which is commonly known as household bleach. When properly applied, it can kill pathogenic microorganisms with minimum cytotoxicity. This article reviews its history and discusses how evolvin
Energy Intensity of Water: Literature Suggests Increasing Interest Despite Limited and Inconsistent Data

Water agencies use energy to pump, treat, and distribute potable water. Wastewater treatment plants use energy to collect, treat, and discharge wastewater. The energy intensity of water—the energy embedded in a unit of water delivered—varies considerably depending on the water source, the location and size of the agency’s service area, and the treatment technology employed. The frequency at which agencies collect energy use data also varies, as does the degree to which those data are available. Available estimates of the energy intensity of water also vary greatly. There is a growing recognition within the water and energy communities that new water supplies will likely be increasingly energy intensive and that water conservation efforts will thus result in energy savings. As a result, there is increasing interest in understanding baseline energy use, projected energy use, and opportunities for reducing energy consumption by water and wastewater agencies. The collection of additional, more consistent and more granular data is essential to gaining this understanding.”Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Iron concentration reduced in ventral pallidum, globus pallidus, and substantia nigra by GABA-transaminase inhibitor, gamma-vinyl GABA.

Abstract Recent histochemical studies indicate that there is considerable overlap of brain areas accumulating iron in oligodendrocytes with those in which GABA neurons terminate. The ventral pallidum, globus pallidus, substantia nigra and cerebellar nuclei are iron-rich areas, receive GABA-containing efferents, and have high concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamic acid decar☐ylase (GAD). The present study examines the efect of disruption of the metabolism of GABA on the accumulation of iron in GABAergic projection sites. Gamma-vinyl GABA, an enzyme activated inhibitor of GABA-transaminase, was injected unilaterally into the globus pallidus and adjacent striatum or into the substantia nigra of the rat brain. Additional animals received unilateral injections of saline into the same areas or an electrocoagulation lesion of the globus pallidus and surrounding striatum. Two days after injection or lesion all animals were perfused and 40 μm sections of the brain were processed with the Perls' + diaminobenzidine (DAB) histochemical method for iron. The intensity of iron stain was measured with densitometry. Gamma-vinyl GABA injection into the striatum/pallidum resulted in a significant reduction in iron concentration in the ipsilateral ventral pallidum, globus pallidus and substantia nigra. Gamma-vinyl GABA injected into the substantia nigra reduced iron in the injection site. This study provides evidence that the presence of iron in the brain is related to the utilization of GABA.
Permethrin Resistance in Lycoriella mali (Diptera: Sciaridae)

Four colonies of Lycoriella mali (Fitch) collected from different mushroom farms in southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware were examined for resistance to topically applied permethrin in laboratory studies. Low to moderate (8- to 47-fold at LD50) resistance was discovered in all four colonies compared with a reference strain not previously exposed to permethrin. Resistance at the LD95 was from 34- to 67-fold. The LC95 of three of the colonies was approximately equal to the field rate for permethrin, whereas one colony’s LC95 was below the field rate. Slopes of the dose-mortality lines of the four colonies ranged from 0.82 to 1.31, suggesting a potential for higher levels of resistance in these populations with continued selection pressure. The large concentration of mushroom farms in the area, short generation time of L. mali , numerous applications of permethrin, and history of pesticide use are likely to have influenced the development of resistance to permethrin in this species.
Clinician’s Guide to Diagnostic Imaging

493 Objectives Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common neurological disease for which no PET tracers are available. Tracers are in development for inflammation (TSPO ligands) and myelin but no tracers exist for demyelinated axons, the hallmark of MS. Potassium (K+) channels in myelinated axons are normally located beneath the myelin sheath. During MS, myelin becomes damaged leaving these channels exposed. K+ channel blockers, such as 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), are used clinically to enhance axonal conduction and improve neurological function. Here, we explore the possibility that 4-AP analogs can be used to image demyelination. Our goals: - Show that 4-AP has higher uptake in demyelinated areas over myelinated areas in animal models of MS. - Develop fluorinated derivatives of 4-AP and routes to label these molecules with 18F. - Conduct PET imaging studies using [18F] 4-AP in rats and monkeys. Methods - [14C] 4-AP was administered to live demyelinated and control mice and the uptake in white matter was measured using autoradiography. - Fluorinated derivatives of 4-AP were synthesized and their binding affinity compared with 4-AP. - A route for 18F labeling of our lead compound was developed. - PET imaging studies in demyelinated rats and monkeys are ongoing. Results 4-AP and the fluorinated derivative 3-F-4-AP show significantly higher uptake in demyelinated areas over normally myelinated white matter. These molecules permit distinguishing demyelinated animals from controls using autoradiography. The SUV ratio in brain over blood for 3-F-4-AP 1h post injection is >2. A novel synthetic strategy for 18F labeling of 3-F-4-AP has been developed comprising aromatic nucleophilic substitution followed by reduction. We expect to have microPET results by June 2015. Conclusions We have identified the first compound whose uptake increases upon demyelination, which is also brain permeable and metabolically stable. This compound is based on an approved drug for MS. This compound is a promising PET tracer for demyelinating conditions. Research Support NMSS, NIH/NINDS
Lean and ultralean stretched propane–air counterflow flames

Stretched laminar flame structures for a wide range of C{sub 3}H{sub 8}-air mixtures vs hot products are investigated by laser-based diagnostics and numerical simulation. The hot products are produced by a lean H{sub 2}-air premixed flame. The effect of stretch rate and equivalence ratio on four groups of C{sub 3}H{sub 8}-air flame structures is studied in detail by Raman scattering measurements and by numerical calculations of the major species concentration and temperature profiles. The equivalence ratio, f, is varied from a near-stoichiometric condition (f=0.86) to the sublean limit (f=0.44) and the stretch rate varies from 90 s{sup -1} to near extinction. For most of these C{sub 3}H{sub 8}-air lean mixtures, hot products are needed to maintain the flame. The significant feature of these flames is the relatively low flame temperatures (1200-1800 K). For this temperature range, the predicted C{sub 3}H{sub 8}-air flame structure is sensitive to the specific chemical kinetic mechanism. Two types of flame structures (a lean self-propagating flame and a lean diffusion-controlled flame) are obtained based on the combined effect of stretch and equivalence ratio. Three different mechanisms, the M5 mechanism, the Optimized mechanism, and the San Diego mechanism, are chosen for the numerical simulations. None of themore » propane chemical mechanisms give good agreement with the data over the entire range of flame conditions. (author)« less
Time-contingent change in infanticide and parental behavior induced by ejaculation in male mice

About 50% of sexually-naive male CF-1 mice (Mus musculus) commit infanticide (kill young). But, 80-90% of male mice commit infanticide between 1-4 days after mating. Between 12 and 50 days after mating infanticide is inhibited and most males (80-100%) behave parentally toward young (they build a nest, retrieve and groom the young, and hover over the young to keep them warm). Beginning at 60 days after mating, infanticide is again facilitated and parental behavior is inhibited (70-80% of males commit infanticide). The facilitation and inhibition of infanticide as a function of time after mating is mediated by the act of ejaculating rather than by mounting and intromitting during mating or by cohabiting with a female either before or after mating. The experience of committing infanticide either prior to mating or within the first 4 days after mating does not influence the facilitation of parental behavior that occurs 12 days after mating. But, repeated contact with young after males become parental serves to maintain parental behavior for an extended period of time. The age of the young (newborn-20 days old) utilized as stimulus animals does not influence these time-dependent changes in the behavior of male mice after ejaculation. This phenomenon is unique in that a response (infanticide) to a novel stimulus (young) is facilitated, then inhibited, and then facilitated again as a function of time between an event (ejaculation) and exposure to the novel stimulus.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Conducting Probe Tips

We describe a method for producing and characterizing electrically connected single-wall carbon nanotube scanned-probe tips. The stable contact resistance, of the order of 100 kΩ, makes these tips suitable for conducting probe applications. The nanotubes, grown by chemical vapor deposition, are mounted on the end of metal-coated (gold and platinum) silicon tips, using the “pick-up” method. Electrical characterization is carried out by lowering the tube into a liquid mercury contact and measuring the current through the tube as a function of applied bias voltage and immersion depth. This allows assessment of the magnitude and stability of the contact resistance, as well as identification of metallic and semiconducting tubes. It also offers a new geometry for investigating the transport properties of a nanotube as a continuous function of its conducting length.
Automatic Film Processing In Diagnostic Radiology Problems And Solutions

The effects of variations in processor operation on the diagnostic quality of radiographs are discussed. Many processing problems are related to the design of the processor, the external water regulation system, and maintenance of the machine. Means of improving processor operation and a method of establishing a quality control program are presented.
Reoperations for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease: An Analysis of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Congenital Heart Surgery Database

In this descriptive analysis, data in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Congenital Heart Surgery Database pertaining to patients who underwent reoperative cardiac surgery were analyzed. Practice patterns and outcomes are described. Reoperative cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease is common, with one third of index operations in the database occurring subsequent to prior cardiothoracic operation(s) performed on cardiopulmonary bypass. This analysis suggests that a history of previous cardiac surgery does not independently confer a significant incremental risk of operative mortality, but that patients with greater number of previous operations appear to be at higher risk.
Metabolomics and Cardiovascular Biomarker Discovery

BACKGROUND: Metabolomics, the systematic analysis of low molecular weight biochemical compounds in a biological specimen, has been increasingly applied to biomarker discovery. CONTENT: Because no single analytical method can accommodate the chemical diversity of the entire metabolome, various methods such as nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS) have been employed, with the latter coupled to an array of separation techniques including gas and liquid chromatography. Whereas NMR can provide structural information and absolute quantification for select metabolites without the use of exogenous standards, MS tends to have much higher analytical sensitivity, enabling broader surveys of the metabolome. Both NMR and MS can be used to characterize metabolite data either in a targeted manner or in a nontargeted, pattern-recognition manner. In addition to technical considerations, careful sample selection and study design are important to minimize potential confounding influences on the metabolome, including diet, medications, and comorbitidies. To this end, metabolite profiling has been applied to human biomarker discovery in small-scale interventions, in which individuals are extremely well phenotyped and able to serve as their own biological controls, as well as in larger epidemiological cohorts. Understanding how metabolites relate to each other and to established risk markers for diseases such as diabetes and renal failure will be important in evaluating the potential value of these metabolites as clinically useful biomarkers. SUMMARY: Applied to both experimental and epidemiological study designs, metabolite profiling has begun to highlight the breadth of metabolic disturbances that accompany human disease. Experimental work in model systems and integration with other functional genomic approaches will be required to establish a causal link between select biomarkers and disease pathogenesis.
ORBITAL MOTION UNDER CONTINUOUS TANGENTIAL THRUST

The effect of continuous tangential thrust on the orbital motion and mass loss of a vehicle initially in a circular orbit is investigated analytically. It is shown that, for a thrust-to-weight ratio of greater than 0.16175, escape speed will eventually be reached along an unwinding spiral trajectory. For lower thrust-to-weight ratios, escape speed is never attained, and the flight path oscillates around a logarithmic spiral trajectory. Formulas are obtained for the approximate orbital motion and time of flight along each type of trajectory and for mass loss due to expenditure of rocket propellant.
Deciphering the role of histidine 252 in mycobacterial adenosine 5'-phosphosulfate (APS) reductase catalysis.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate reductase (APR) catalyzes the first committed step in sulfate reduction for the biosynthesis of cysteine and is essential for survival in the latent phase of tuberculosis infection. The reaction catalyzed by APR involves the nucleophilic attack by conserved Cys-249 on adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate, resulting in a covalent S-sulfocysteine intermediate that is reduced in subsequent steps by thioredoxin to yield the sulfite product. Cys-249 resides on a mobile active site lid at the C terminus, within a K(R/T)ECG(L/I)H motif. Owing to its strict conservation among sulfonucleotide reductases and its proximity to the active site cysteine, it has been suggested that His-252 plays a key role in APR catalysis, specifically as a general base to deprotonate Cys-249. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we have changed His-252 to an alanine residue and analyzed the effect of this mutation on the kinetic parameters, pH rate profile, and ionization of Cys-249 of APR. Interestingly, our data demonstrate that His-252 does not perturb the pKa of Cys-249 or play a direct role in rate-limiting chemical steps of the reaction. Rather, we show that His-252 enhances substrate affinity via interaction with the α-phosphate and the endocyclic ribose oxygen. These findings were further supported by isothermal titration calorimetry to provide a thermodynamic profile of ligand-protein interactions. From an applied standpoint, our study suggests that small-molecules targeting residues in the dynamic C-terminal segment, particularly His-252, may lead to inhibitors with improved binding affinity.
Comparative Rates of Heat Release from Five Different Types of Test Apparatuses

Previously reported rates of heat release using five different bench-scale test methods are compared with each other and against a limited series of large- scale tests. The materials tested were lo...
Towards the development of a bioartificial pancreas: effects of poly-L-lysine on alginate beads with BTC3 cells.

Abstract A bioartificial tissue construct that consists of insulin-secreting cells entrapped in an alginate/poly- l -lysine (PLL) matrix offers a promising approach for the treatment of type I diabetes. Use of transformed cells has been proposed as a solution to the cell availability problem posed by islets. The growth characteristics of transformed cells in their sequestered environment and the effects of PLL on their metabolic and secretory activities have not yet been characterized. Our data demonstrate that mouse insulinoma βTC3 cells proliferate while they are entrapped in both PLL-free and PLL-coated alginate beads. During this process, cell aggregates develop in the bead periphery, which increase in number and size with time. PLL is crucial for the long-term in vitro structural stability of beads, and it does not appear to affect the metabolic and secretory activities of entrapped βTC3 cells. The implications of these findings in the development of a bioartificial pancreatic construct based on transformed cells are discussed.
A Polaris logistics model

Abstract : This paper presents a basic loss minimization model which has been applied in varying contexts for Polaris logistics problems. Definitive results are obtained in a general framework which extends the classic newsboy problem in two principal directions. First, probability distributions for demand are unrestricted. Second, a general framework for 'penalties' or 'premiums' is introduced to permit formulation of possibly non-convex loss functions. The main result is a constructive existence theorem for minimum values of these general expected loss functions. (Author)
Fluctuations in the delocalization level of eigenstates and thermalization

Using full exact diagonalization, we study the transition to chaos in one-dimensional gapless bosonic and fermionic systems. We show that the strength of the integrability-breaking term required for the emergence of a Wigner–Dyson distribution and for reduced fluctuations of delocalization measures decreases with system size. We discuss how these results relate to the onset of thermalization in isolated quantum many-body systems.
Spiritual distress of military veterans at the end of life.

Objective: Although combat experiences can have a profound impact on individuals' spirituality, there is a dearth of research in this area. Our recent study indicates that one unique spiritual need of veterans who are at the end of life is to resolve distress caused by combat-related events that conflict with their personal beliefs. This study sought to gain an understanding of chaplains' perspectives on this type of spiritual need, as well as the spiritual care that chaplains provide to help veterans ease this distress. Method: We individually interviewed five chaplains who have provided spiritual care to veterans at the end of life in a Veterans Administration hospital. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed based on “grounded theory.” Results: Chaplains reported that they frequently encounter veterans at the end of life who are still suffering from thoughts or images of events that occurred during their military career. Although some veterans are hesitant to discuss their experiences, chaplains reported that they have had some success with helping the veterans to open up. Additionally, chaplains reported using both religious (e.g., confessing sins) and nonreligious approaches (e.g., recording military experience) to help veterans to heal. Significance of results: Our pilot study provides some insight into the spiritual distress that many military veterans may be experiencing, as well as methods that a chaplain can employ to help these veterans. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings and to examine the value of integrating the chaplain service into mental health care for veterans.
Cryoablation: Mechanism of Action and Devices

Cryoablation refers to all methods of destroying tissue by freezing. Cryoablation causes cellular damage, death, and necrosis of tissues by direct mechanisms, which cause cold-induced injury to cells, and indirect mechanisms, which cause changes to the cellular microenvironment and impair tissue viability. Cellular injury, both indirect and direct, can be influenced by four factors: cooling rate, target temperature, time at target temperature, and thawing rate. In this review, the authors describe the mechanisms of cellular injury that occur with cryoablation, the major advantages and disadvantages of cryoablation compared with other thermal ablation techniques, and the current commercially available cryoablation ablation systems.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Structure of Mixed Chloride−Selenide Tungsten Cluster Complexes

The first examples of mixed halide−chalcogenide hexatungsten clusters as the molecular complexes, [W6Se8-xClx(PEt3)6]+, were prepared via the reaction of W6Cl12 with Na2Se and PEt3 in refluxing toluene. Single crystals of the mixed chloride−selenide cluster cationic complexes were grown from chloroform solution. The structures of two crystals from different preparations, using Na2Se and K2Se as reagents, were determined and found to have different compositions, [W6Se7.0Cl1.0(PEt3)6][Cl(CHCl3)6] and [W6Se6.4Cl1.6(PEt3)6][Cl(CHCl3)6], respectively. In the latter case the crystal contains both the 20-electron cluster [W6Se7Cl(PEt3)6]+ and the 21-electron cluster [W6Se6Cl2(PEt3)6]+ in the mole fractions 0.40 and 0.60, respectively. The two crystals were isomorphous: hexagonal, R3, Z = 3, a = 18.921(4) A, c = 21.275(4) A and a = 18.908(5) A, c = 21.306(5) A, respectively. The bridging chlorine and selenium atoms are disordered over all the bridging ligand sites in both structures. In the unique [Cl(CHCl3)6]-...
Integrated Guided-Wave Photodiode Using Through-Absorber Quantum-Well-Intermixing

A high-speed, high-saturation power photodiode compatible with a relatively simple monolithic integration process is described. The detector is comprised of an intrinsic bulk absorption layer, an electron drift region, and a field termination layer, and is grown above a main waveguide core comprised of a number of quantum wells, which are used as the active region of a phase modulator. Through-absorber quantum-well-intermixing is used to blue-shift the bandedge of the underlying quantum wells, reducing the optical losses of that material. The detectors demonstrate quantum efficiency, input saturation power, and 3-dB bandwidth of 50 GHz.
A reinterpretation of the data from the NASA Stratosphere‐Troposphere Exchange Project

Data obtained during the NASA Stratosphere Troposphere Exchange Project (STEP) Mid-Latitude Field Experiment displayed laminae of ozone, water, and condensation nuclei in the stratosphere in association with a mid-latitude stratosphere-troposphere folding event. Danielsen et al. (1991) constructed cross sections of these observations, and interpreted these quasi-horizontal laminae as evidence of ultra-low frequency gravity waves. We use a new technique to show that these laminae could have resulted from differential advection, rather than transport by ultra-low frequency gravity waves. This new technique uses reverse domain filling back trajectories on multiple isentropic surfaces in conjunction with modified potential vorticity to reveal the qualitative details of the constituent laminae.
Light-front Hamiltonian dynamics of proton-deuteron scattering.

The problem of elastic proton-deuteron scattering at medium energies is examined within the framework of light-front Hamiltonian particle dynamics. Deuteron wave functions and off-shell nucleon-nucleon scattering amplitudes from models which fit {ital NN} data are used as input. The contributions to cross section and spin observables from single and double scattering are calculated.
An Analysis of Some Relationships Between Post and Boolean Algebras

The fundamentals of Post algebras are presented and Post and Boolean functions are examined. A functional representation is developed that facilitates the comparison of Post and Boolean algebras. Based on this representation, relationships between finite, higher-order (that is, more than 2-valued) Boolean algebras and functions in these algebras and finite, higher-order Post algebras and their corresponding functions are develop.
An Intraday Examination of the Components of the Bid–Ask Spread

Using transactions data for a sample of NYSE stocks, we decompose the bid–ask spread (BAS) into order–processing (OP) and asymmetric information (AI) components using the techniques of George, Kaul, and Nimalendran (1991) and Madhavan, Richardson, and Roomans (1997). McInish and Wood (1992) demonstrate that the intraday behavior of BASs can be explained by variables measuring activity, competition, risk, and information. We investigate whether these variables explain the behavior of the OP and AI components of the spread over the trading day. We conclude that, on balance, the variables that determine the aggregate BAS also determine its intraday components.
Positive impact of a breast-health triaging system on breast-care access and physician satisfaction

Abstract Objective Minority patients are at risk for delayed breast cancer treatment. Using nonsurgical breast specialists could improve access but requires appropriate referral to ensure prompt cancer care. Our objective was to evaluate a referral triage system in a combined medical/surgical breast health program (BHP). Methods A triage system based on imaging findings, examination, and patient age was instituted. An advanced practice nurse managed referrals and a prospective database. Referring providers were surveyed after 2 years. Results From 2003 to 2006, 4,840 referrals were made to surgeons (57%) and nonsurgeons (43%). Breast cancers were found in 8.5% of patients. Referral error occurred in 4 cancer patients (.1%). BHP-referred patients had significantly shorter times to surgical appointment (10 days) than non-BHP referrals (45 days). A referring provider survey indicated 96% satisfaction. Conclusions A breast-care triage system expedited cancer care resulting in physician satisfaction and increased referrals.
Functional Properties of Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC] Proteins

A protein concentrate (71.45% protein on a dry weight basis) was prepared from winged bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC] seeds. Solubility of the protein concentrate was minimal at a pH of 4.0. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) of the bean flour proteins and protein concentrate indicated 9 subunits each, with apparent molecular weight ranges of 27,000–380,000 and 14,200–143,000 daltons, respectively. Least gelation concentrations and water and oil absorption capacities of the seed flour and the protein concentrate were determined. Emulsion and foaming properties of the protein concentrate were investigated. Effect of moist heat on seed protein digestibility was assessed in vitro. Protein concentrate had lower tannins and trypsin, chymotrypsin, and α-amylase inhibitory activities compared to bean flour.
Validity and power of tests when groups have been balanced for prognostic factors

Abstract The significance level and power of analysis of variance and covariance techniques are compared using a computer-simulated experiment. We consider cases assigned to groups by randomization or ‘minimization’, a technique designed to prevent chance imbalance of baseline prognostic variables. The results show that unless analysis of covariance is used for significance testing, the minimization technique can yield invalid tests. Analysis of variance is less powerful with minimization than with randomization when the treatment means are not very different. When analysis of covariance is used, both minimization and randomization will provide an acceptable test of significance, and are more powerful than analysis of variance. In addition, the analysis of covariance, is slightly more powerful with minimization than with randomization. It is suggested that minimization should be considered for group assignment only if all variables used in minimization are also to be used as covariate.
The occurrence of acetylcholine in the two-spotted mite, Tetranychus telarius L.☆

Abstract The occurrence of acetylcholine in the two-spotted mite has been demonstrated. By paper chromatography, paper electrophoresis, pharmacological bioassay, and by its reaction with hydroxylamine-ferric chloride it has been established that the biologically active substance found occurring in the mites is identical with acetylcholine itself.
Mechanistic Studies of Olefin and Alkyne Trimerization with Chromium Catalysts: Deuterium Labeling and Studies of Regiochemistry Using a Model Chromacyclopentane Complex

A system for catalytic trimerization of ethylene utilizing chromium(III) precursors supported by diphosphine ligand PNP^(O4) = (o-MeO−C_6H_4)_2PN(Me)P(o-MeO−C_6H_4)_2 has been investigated. The mechanism of the olefin trimerization reaction was examined using deuterium labeling and studies of reactions with α-olefins and internal olefins. A well-defined chromium precursor utilized in this studies is Cr(PNP^(O4))(o,o‘-biphenyldiyl)Br. A cationic species, obtained by halide abstraction with NaB[C_6H_3(CF_3)_2]_4, is required for catalytic turnover to generate 1-hexene from ethylene. The initiation byproduct is vinylbiphenyl; this is formed even without activation by halide abstraction. Trimerization of 2-butyne is accomplished by the same cationic system but not by the neutral species. Catalytic trimerization, with various (PNP^(O4))Cr precursors, of a 1:1 mixture of C_2D_4 and C_2H_4 gives isotopologs of 1-hexene without H/D scrambling (C_6D_(12), C_6D_8H_4, C_6D_4H_8, and C_6H_(12) in a 1:3:3:1 ratio). The lack of crossover supports a mechanism involving metallacyclic intermediates. Using a SHOP catalyst to perform the oligomerization of a 1:1 mixture of C_2D_4 and C_2H_4 leads to the generation of a broader distribution of 1-hexene isotopologs, consistent with a Cossee-type mechanism for 1-hexene formation. The ethylene trimerization reaction was further studied by the reaction of trans-, cis-, and gem-ethylene-d_2 upon activation of Cr(PNP^(O4))(o,o‘-biphenyldiyl)Br with NaB[C_6H_3(CF_3)_2]_4. The trimerization of cis- and trans-ethylene-d_2 generates 1-hexene isotopomers having terminal CDH groups, with an isotope effect of 3.1(1) and 4.1(1), respectively. These results are consistent with reductive elimination of 1-hexene from a putative Cr(H)[(CH_2)_4CH═CH_2] occurring much faster than a hydride 2,1-insertion or with concerted 1-hexene formation from a chromacycloheptane via a 3,7-H shift. The trimerization of gem-ethylene-d2 has an isotope effect of 1.3(1), consistent with irreversible formation of a chromacycloheptane intermediate on route to 1-hexene formation. Reactions of olefins with a model of a chromacyclopentane were investigated starting from Cr(PNP^(O4))(o,o‘-biphenyldiyl)Br. α-Olefins react with cationic biphenyldiyl chromium species to generate products from 1,2-insertion. A study of the reaction of 2-butenes indicated that β-H elimination occurs preferentially from the ring CH rather than exo-CH bond in the metallacycloheptane intermediates. A study of cotrimerization of ethylene with propylene correlates with these findings of regioselectivity. Competition experiments with mixtures of two olefins indicate that the relative insertion rates generally decrease with increasing size of the olefins.
Osteochondrosis of the Canine Tibiotarsal Joint

This article reviews previous literature and current conclusions regarding osteochondrosis dissecans in the canine tarsus since it was first reported only 20 years ago. Breed, signalment, and clinical characteristics can greatly aid the clinician in suspicion of this condition. Specific radiographic techniques for confirmation of osteochondrosis are discussed. Treatment options, expectations, and specific surgical approaches are reviewed.
The Effect of Physical Aging on the Time-Dependent Properties of Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Annealing in nitrogen below the glass transition temperature T(g) is found to affect the matrix-dominated physical properties of postcured, (+ and -45)2s specimens of Thornel 300 carbon fiber/Fiberite 934 epoxy composite as well as neat Fiberite 934 epoxy resin. The damping behavior, stress-relaxation rate and enthalpic state of the matrix material are found to decrease as functions of annealing time. The time-dependent change in physical properties is explained on the basis of free-volume collapse related to the physical aging of the nonequilibrium glassy network of epoxy. Such physical aging in network epoxy has been demonstrated to be thermoreversible through the monitoring of its kinetics by differential scanning calorimetry, stress relaxation tests, and dynamic mechanical analysis.
Effect of neighboring perturbations on drop coalescence at an interface

Coalescence at a quiescent silicone oil/water glycerine interface was investigated for water/glycerine drops with Bond number ∼7 and Ohnesorge number = 0.01 using high-speed imaging and time-resolved tomographic particle image velocimetry. In addition to a single drop case, three perturbation cases were considered corresponding with a second drop, a solid particle wetted in oil, and a solid particle wetted in water/glycerine placed adjacent to the coalescing drop. Each perturbing object caused an initial tilting of the drop, influencing its rupture location and eventual collapse behavior. Once tilted, drops typically ruptured near their lowest vertical position which was located either toward or away from the perturbing object depending on the case. The initial retraction speed of the ruptured film was higher for drops initially tilted at significant angles, and the local variations in retraction speed correlated well with the expected variations in local film thickness. The drop fluid always collapsed aw...
Estimated pediatric radiation dose during CT.

State-of-the-art CT scanners typically display two dose indices: CT dose index (CTDIvol [mGy]) and dose length product (DLP [mGy-cm]) based on one of two standard CTDI phantoms (16- or 32-cm diameter) used in the calculation of CTDIvol. CTDIvol represents the radiation produced by the CT scanner, not the radiation dose to an individual patient. Pediatric radiologists, aware of this discrepancy, have requested a method to estimate the CT patient dose based on the size of the pediatric patient or small adult. This paper describes the method developed by AAPM Task Group 204 to provide a better estimate of CT patient dose. These improved estimates of patient dose provide radiologists with a practical tool to better manage the radiation dose their patients receive. In the future, size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) received by the patient should be included in the patient’s electronic medical record to help radiologists better assess risk versus benefit for their patients.
Ceramide and sphingomyelinases in the regulation of stress responses

Ceramide and other sphingolipids are now recognized as novel intracellular signal mediators. One of the important and regulated steps in the metabolism of sphingolipids is the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin into ceramide by sphingomyelinases. Whereas some studies suggest a role for acid sphingomyelinase in cell regulation, several lines of investigation suggest that neutral sphingomyelinase (N-SMase) plays a critical role in stress responses including apoptosis. Recently the advanced purification of neutral membrane-bound magnesium-dependent sphingomyelinase from rat brain was reported on. The specific activity of the purified N-SMase was increased by approximately 3000-fold over the rat brain homogenate, and it is specifically activated by phosphatidylserine. In cells, N-SMase may be coupled to either the redox state and/or glutathione metabolism. The significance of N-SMase and ceramide in stress responses is discussed.
Spectral properties of the exterior transmission eigenvalue problem

The exterior transmission eigenvalue problem arises naturally when one considers the scattering of point sources situated in a cavity by the penetrable nonabsorbable boundary of the cavity. Here we show that for constant index of refraction the exterior transmission eigenvalues form a discrete set and for the case of a spherically stratified medium the eigenvalues (both real and complex) uniquely determine the index of refraction.
The use of random chimeragenesis to study structure/function properties of rat and human P450c17.

The microsomal 17alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase cytochrome P450 (P450c17) catalyzes the 17alpha-hydroxylase reaction required to produce cortisol, the major glucocorticoid in many species and the 17,20-lyase activity required for the production of androgens in all species. Utilizing the technique of random chimeragenesis we have attempted to map regions of primary sequence that contribute to the species-specific biochemical differences between rat and human P450c17. We have previously reported significant differences between rat and human P450c17 in their activities, stability and substrate-dependent coupling efficiencies even though they share 68% amino acid identity. Identification of the regions of primary sequence that contribute to each of these properties would be helpful in understanding the structure/function relationships in this enzyme. A single plasmid containing the cDNAs encoding both enzymes in a tandem orientation was constructed. This plasmid was linearized at unique restriction sites and used to transform Escherichia coli. A three-step screening protocol identified five chimeras with a uniform distribution of 5' rat and 3' human sequence. All chimeric proteins yield the characteristic reduced-CO difference spectra, indicating proper folding. The chimeras exhibit a range of stability and activities that are not consistent with the degree of parental primary sequence. A chimera containing 301 N-terminal rat P450c17 amino acids and lacking the rat P450c17 phenylalanine 343, had the highest lyase activity. Generation of these functional rat/human chimeras suggests that the tertiary structures of rat and human P450c17 are sufficiently conserved to allow proper folding of chimeric enzymes. However, the properties of these chimeras did not permit identification of a region of primary sequence that contributes to a species-specific property of rat and human P450c17. Stability of these chimeras and insight into the presence of secondary structural elements is discussed.
Standard Error of Ability Estimates and the Classification Accuracy and Consistency of Binary Decisions

While estimation bias is a primary concern in psychological and educational measurement, the standard error is of equal importance in linking key aspects of the assessment structure, especially when the assessment goal concerns the classification of individuals into categories (e.g., master/non-mastery). In this paper, we show analytically how standard error of ability estimates affects expected classification accuracy and consistency when the decision is binary. When standard error decreases, the conditional classification accuracy and consistency increase. Given an examinee population and a cut score, smaller standard error over the entire latent trait continuum guarantees higher overall expected classification accuracy and consistency. We were also able to show the interrelationship between standard error, the expected classification consistency, and reliability. Utilizing the relationship between standard error and expected classification accuracy and consistency, we derive the upper bounds of the overall expected classification accuracy and consistency of a fixed-length computerized adaptive test. The lower bound of the expected classification accuracy and consistency is also derived given a number of stopping rules of variable-length computerized adaptive testing. Implications of these analytical results on operational tests are discussed.
Experimental investigation of a two-dimensional cylindrical sampler

Abstract A particle trajectory tracing method is used to measure the aspiration efficiency of a two-dimensional cylindrical sampler at various orientations relative to the freestream flow direction. The experiments are performed at three different velocity ratios ( U o U s = 0.36, 1 and 1.43 ) and five different angles (0, 30, 45, 60 and 90°). U o is the freestream velocity and U s is the sampler suction flow velocity. The particle sizes included in the study range from 20 to 60 μm in aerodynamic diameter. When the sampler is facing the wind (0°), the experimental data are in very good agreement with previous numerical calculations and previous semi-empirical model predictions. Based on the experimental data, an improved model is obtained for angles from 0 to 90° by modifying slightly the currently accepted semi-empirical model.
GaAs SCHOTTKY BARRIER MIXER DIODES FOR THE FREQUENCY RANGE 1-10 THz~

Recent technological advances have made possible the development of heterodyne receivers with high sensitivity and high spectral resolution for frequencies up to 3,000 GHz (3 THz). These receivers rely on GaAs Schottky barrier mixer diodes to translate the high-frequency signal to a lower frequency where amplification and signal processing are possible. In the frequency range from 1–10 THz several new effects will limit diode performance. These effects are discussed and guidelines for diode design are presented.
Chemical Analysis of 1,2,3,4-Butanetetracarboxylic Acid

Polycarboxylic acids have been the most promising durable press finishing agents for cotton to replace traditional formaldehyde-based reagents. Among the various polycarboxylic acids investigated in recent years, 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) has been the most effective crosslinking agent. Cottons treated with BTCA have shown superior durable press performance with high levels of laundering durability. In this research, we analyze a reagent grade and an industrial grade BTCA using elemental analysis and acid-base titration. The titration data indicate that the industrial grade product contains approximately 95% BTCA. The two BTCA products are studied by FTIR and FT-Raman spectroscopy, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR), mass spectroscopy (MS), and liquid chromatography/mass spectros copy (LC/MS). All the instrumental analysis data indicate the low level of impurities in the industrial BTCA. Cotton fabrics treated with the two products show similar durable press performance, indica...