cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
POMDP filter: pruning POMDP value functions with the Kaczmarz iterative method

In recent years, there has been significant interest in developing techniques for finding policies for Partially Observable Markov Decision Problems (POMDPs). This paper introduces a new POMDP filtering technique that is based on Incremental Pruning [1], but relies on geometries of hyperplane arrangements to compute for optimal policy. This new approach applies notions of linear algebra to transform hyperplanes and treat their intersections as witness points [5]. The main idea behind this technique is that a vector that has the highest value at any of the intersection points must be part of the policy. IPBS is an alternative of using linear programming (LP), which requires powerful and expensive libraries, and which is subjected to numerical instability.
Squamous metaplasia of the canaliculi associated with 5-fluorouracil: a clinicopathologic case report

Abstract Objective To illustrate a newly recognized histopathologic change in a patient with canalicular obstruction after weekly administration of 5-fluorouracil for colon cancer. Design Interventional case report. Methods A full-thickness section of canaliculus was obtained during surgical repair. Main outcome measure Histopathologic changes in the specimen. Results The prominent histologic feature of the canalicular specimen was severe squamous metaplasia with narrowing of the lumen. Conclusion Canalicular obstruction may follow systemic use of 5-fluorouracil due to squamous metaplasia.
Online Learning in Higher Education in Sub-Saharan Africa: Ghanaian University Students' Experiences and Perceptions.

This study adopted a qualitative case-study approach to examine the attitudes, experiences, and perceptions of undergraduate students who were enrolled in an online, collaborative learning course at a Ghanaian private university. Data sources included surveys, student and instructor journal entries, email records, individual interviews, and Web-server logs. The study found that the students did not respond favorably to online constructivist teaching approaches such as asynchronous discussions and ill-structured project-based learning activities, and perceived collaborative online learning within their context as a complex, more demanding and time-consuming experience.
Diffuse neonatal hemangiomatosis: a case report

Diffuse neonatal hemangiomatosis (DNH) is a rare condition characterized by the presence of numerous cutaneous and visceral hemangiomas that become manifest at birth or within the neonatal period . The cutaneous lesions are generalized, vary from 0.5 to 1.5 em in diameter, and often range from 50 to 500 in number. Visceral lesions are most commonly found in the liver, CNS, intestine, and lungs . Skeletal involvement also has been reported. Approximately 60% of infants with DNH die during the first few months of life due to high-output cardiac failure, hemorrhage, or CNS involvement [1 ] . Steroid therapy is thought to accelerate involution of these lesions and has raised prospects for long-term survival [2] . This report describes the usefulness of MR imaging in demonstrating the numerous intracranial hemorrhages seen in DNH . MR imaging was much more sensitive than CT in demonstrating these lesions and also was more specific in showing the characteristic sedimentation levels seen with subacute hemorrhages. Other imaging examinations con­ firmed the presence of additional hemangiomas in the long bones and liver. Despite a stormy course over the first 2 weeks of life , this infant responded successfully to steroid therapy and is doing well at 16 months of age.
Weekly phase shifts of rhythms self-reported by almost feral human students in the USA and Spain.

Abstract Eleven students in the USA and fifteen students in Spain wrote their wake-up and to-sleep times on forms for a month. The subjects reported large day-to-day phase shifts of magnitude comparable to those of travelers and shiftworkers. All individuals exhibited some large phase shifts of their day-to-day wake-up and to-sleep times (largest shift average, 4.54 hours; range, −12.7 to +13.9 hours). The students had daily cycles and weekly cycles in their wake-up and to-sleep times. Synchrony (entrainment) with the 24-hour environment was achieved by large weekly phase advances (individual averages ranged 1.2–4.8 hours) rather than by small daily adjustments. There was considerable variation in awake time: there were 2–3 hour differences between individuals, and there were 3.2 hour differences depending on day of the week. Alarm use appeared to be the Zeitgeber, in contrast to laboratory studies which show light and social Zeitgebers for humans. There was a 4 hour difference between the Spanish and USA students which was attributed to the 5 hour difference in time zones. Wake-up time and prior to-sleep time were interdependent.
Visually evoked cortical responses to the on- and off-set of patterned light in humans.

Averaged evoked cortical potentials were investigated as a function of the on- and off-set of patterned light (white polka-dots on black background) and the density and sharpness of contours. Six adult human subjects viewed patterned stimuli which were illuminated once every 1.3 sec for 600 msec. Contour density and sharpness was varied by varying the size and distance between polka-dots (0–35 min of arc) and induced refractive error (0–5 diopters). Analyses of variance indicated that dot-size and between-dot-distance significantly influenced the amplitude of early and late components of evoked responses to both the on-and off-set of pattern (P < 0.01). In general, response amplitude progressively decreased as a function of decreased distance between elements and increased refractive error. The results were discussed in terms of lateral inhibition and the size of receptive field centers of on- and off-center cells in the visual system of animals.
Comparing stratospheric aerosols from El Chichón and Mount Pinatubo using AVHRR data

One of the key factors in assessing the climatic impact of the Mount Pinatubo eruption of June 15, 1991, is the relative size of this eruption as it compares with other eruptions. As a first approximation, the climatic changes observed after those earlier eruptions can be used to predict the changes to be expected from the more recent eruption. Ideally this intercomparison should be done with a common measurement system. Data from the advanced very high resolution radiometer (AVHRR) onboard the NOAA polar orbiting environmental satellite can be used to compare the optical properties of the aerosol layer produced by the two most recent major volcanic eruptions, El Chichon, early-April 1982, and Mount Pinatubo, mid-June 1991. In this paper, we use the error introduced into the multi-channel sea surface temperature (MCSST) fields by the volcanically-produced stratospheric aerosol layer to make a relative comparison of the size of the two eruptions. We also use aerosol optical thickness (AOT) estimates from the visible reflectance channel of the AVHRR to verify that the MCSST errors are indeed related to aerosol particle concentration in the stratosphere. During the first three months following both eruptions, these comparisons reveal that Mount Pinatubo introduced slightly less than twice (1.6 to 1.9) the amount of aerosol into the stratosphere as El Chichon.
Analytic improvement of Sossi's Q function.

Sossi’s Q function is the critical kernel in the Fourier transform technique for multilayer thin film design. Using an operator formalism, a new Q function is analytically derived; we show that it is identical to an expression recently used by Bouard. The new Q function should find use in the design of high rejection transmission filters.
The Northern Zoogeographical Regions

THE facts of zoogeography are so involved, and often apparently contradictory, that a skilful dialectician with the requisite knowledge can make a plausible argument for antithetical postulates. Prof. Heilprin, being a skilful dialectician and well informed, has submitted a pretty argument in favour of the union of the North American or “Nearctic” and Eurasiatic or “Palaearctic” regions (Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Phila., 1882, pp. 316–334, and NATURE, vol. xxvii. p. 606), but Mr. Wallace has, with perfect justness it seems to me, objected to his proposition (NATURE, vol. xxvii. pp. 482, 483). As Prof. Heilprin's arguments have not been entirely met, however, permit me to submit some further objections to his views.
Extracellularly activated nanocarriers: a new paradigm of tumor targeted drug delivery.

One of the main goals of nanomedicine is to develop a nanocarrier that can selectively deliver anticancer drugs to the targeted tumors. Extensive efforts have resulted in several tumor-targeted nanocarriers, some of which are approved for clinical use. Most nanocarriers achieve tumor-selective accumulation through the enhanced permeability and retention effect. Targeting molecules such as antibodies, peptides, ligands, or nucleic acids attached to the nanocarriers further enhance their recognition and internalization by the target tissues. While both the stealth and targeting features are important for effective and selective drug delivery to the tumors, achieving both features simultaneously is often found to be difficult. Some of the recent targeting strategies have the potential to overcome this challenge. These strategies utilize the unique extracellular environment of tumors to change the long-circulating nanocarriers to release the drug or interact with cells in a tumor-specific manner. This review ...
The mitotic machinery as a source of genetic instability in cancer.

Development and growth of all organisms involves the faithful reproduction of cells and requires that the genome be accurately replicated and equally partitioned between two cellular progeny. In human cells, faithful segregation of the genome is accomplished by an elaborate macromolecular machine, the mitotic spindle. It is not difficult to envision how defects in components of this complex machine molecules that control its organization and function and regulators that temporally couple spindle operation to other cell cycle events could lead to chromosome missegregation. Recent evidence indicates that the persistent missegregation of chromosomes result in gains and losses of chromosomes and may be an important cause of aneuploidy. This form of chromosome instability may contribute to tumor development and progression by facilitating loss of heterozygocity (LOH) and the phenotypic expression of mutated tumor suppressor genes, and by favoring polysomy of chromosomes that harbor oncogenes. In this review, we will discuss mitotic defects that cause chromosome missegregation, examine components and regulatory mechanisms of the mitotic machine implicated in cancer, and explore mechanisms by which chromosome missegregation could lead to cancer.
The role of multiple gas—solid collisions in the catalytic decomposition of formic acid

Abstract An improved version of a low pressure free-molecular flow reactor is described. Use of a macroscopic, geometrically well-defined analog of a catalyst pore enables one to combine the multiple gas—solid collision effects of a high pressure supported catalyst with the detailed flow characterization available in a vacuum system. Simulations of the molecular trajectories within the reactor produce a relationship between an observed integral conversion and the probability of reaction when a gas molecule strikes the surface; low reaction probabilities are integrated experimentally in a manner which makes them readily observable. The Pt and Cu catalysed decomposition of formic acid was studied in two different reactor geometries at temperatures between 300°C and 450°C. The probability of reaction per collision on these surfaces was found to be independent of the collisional history and could be described by the relationships: Pr = 1.12 × 10 4 exp (− 16000/ R g T ) (platinum) Pr = 2.52 × 10 5 exp (− 21600/ R g T ) (copper). These probabilities are consistent with single collision experiments performed on various crystals and wires if the accommodation coefficient for the single collision is less than unity. No information on the molecular mechanism of decomposition was obtained.
Lateral hypothalamic mediation of spinal reflex facilitation during salt arousal of drinking

Abstract Monosynaptic reflex discharges were evoked in the fifth lumbar ventral root of rat by synergistic stimulation of cut nerves to both heads of the gastrocnemius muscles. Small volumes of intracarotid injections of hypertonic solutions (NaCl, KCl, CaCl 2 , mannitol and sorbitol) produced a graded facilitation (increased amplitude of the monosynaptic component) of reflex discharges which persisted for 23 min. The facilitation did not occur in spinalized, decerebrate, adrenalectomized animals or in animals in which bilateral lateral hypothalamic lesions produced a temporary aphagia and relatively permanent adipsia. Results of intracarotid injections of hypertonic solutions and electrical stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus are also discussed.
Neutral lipids induce critical behavior in interfacial monolayers of pulmonary surfactant.

We have shown previously that lateral compression of pulmonary surfactant monolayers initially induces separation of two phases but that these remix when the films become more dense (1). In the studies reported here, we used fluorescence microscopy to examine the role of the different surfactant constituents in the remixing of the separated phases. Subfractions containing only the purified phospholipids (PPL), the surfactant proteins and phospholipids (SP&PL), and the neutral and phospholipids (N&PL) were obtained by chromatographic separation of the components in extracted calf surfactant (calf lung surfactant extract, CLSE). Compression of the different monolayers produced nonfluorescent domains that emerged for temperatures between 20 and 41 °C at similar surface pressures 6−8 mN/m higher than values observed for dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), the most prevalent component of pulmonary surfactant. Comparison of the different preparations showed that the neutral lipid increased the total nonfluo...
Performance Characteristics Of A 4-Bit 828-Megasamples/Sec Electro-Optic Analog-To-Digital Converter

An electrooptic A/D converter which utilizes optical sampling and which is capable of converting analog signals with bandwidths up to 414 MHz is under development. A device has been fabricated and individual bit channels tested using a beat-frequency technique. The operational principles, converter structure and testing results are summarized.
Analysis of PWM Z-Source DC-DC Converter in CCM for Steady State

Steady-state analysis of pulse-width modulated (PWM) Z-source dc-dc converter operating in continuous conduction mode (CCM) is presented. Voltage and current waveforms, and their corresponding expressions describing the steady-state operation of the PWM Z-source dc-dc converter have been presented. The input-to-output dc voltage transfer functions, both for ideal and non-ideal PWM Z-source dc-dc converter have been derived. The minimum Z-network inductance required to ensure CCM operation is derived. The voltage ripple due to filter capacitor and its ESR, and their individual effects on the the overall output voltage ripple have been derived and analyzed. Expressions for power loss in each of the components of the PWM Z-source dc-dc converter has been determined. Using the expressions derived to determine the power losses, an expression for the overall efficiency of the PWM Z-source dc-dc has been derived. An example PWM Z-source dc-dc converter is considered. A laboratory prototype is built and the theoretical analysis is in good agreement with the experimental results.
Analyses of B, Ga, Rb and K in two deep-sea sediment cores; consideration of their use as paleoenvironmental indicators

Abstract Analyses are presented for B, Ga, Rb and K in a South Atlantic and an Equatorial Atlantic deep-sea sediment core. These modern deep-sea clays differ from some ancient marine shales and modern shallow water marine clays in the relative abundance of B, Ga and Rb, and particularly in B concentration. Boron concentration is shown to be independent of salinity and of potassium in pelagic clays; other factors possibly influencing boron content are suggested. The variation in B concentration of deep-sea clays implies that the use of the relative concentrations of B, Ga and Rb as indicators of the pelagic environment may not always be feasible; complementary data regarding the chemistry and lithology will be required.
On groups of odd prime-power degree that contain a full cycle

We prove that a transitive group of odd prime-power degree such that every minimal transitive subgroup is cyclic is either doubly transitive (and hence known) or contains a normal Sylow p-subgroup.
Development of a Spatially-Filtered Method for Calculation of Multiphase Flow

Computer simulations of multiphase flows are currently limited to two distinct regimes: Fluid elements that are much larger than the computational grid cells can be modeled using fully-resolved calculations, and fluid elements that are much smaller than the grid cells can be modeled using point-particle approximations. However, many flows involve fluid elements for which neither of these limits is appropriate. For simulations of spray atomization, in particular, the grid size needs to be small enough to resolve the details of the injected fluid stream, yet resolving the smallest droplets produced would require an impossibly large number of grid points. To simulate spray atomization or other flows with a wide range of fluid element sizes, then, it is necessary to develop a computational framework that can bridge the fully-resolved and point-particle regimes. The development of such a framework is the topic of this paper. We begin by borrowing the mathematical framework of “large-eddy simulations” of turbulence—the equations for the flowfield are mathematically filtered, producing a set of equations which are smooth above a certain size and contain a set of terms which model the effects of the smaller scales. Because the filtering provides a mathematically valid smoothing of the fluid interfaces, it is also a natural way of simulating fully-resolved fluid elements on a fixed grid. The subfilter-scale terms can be shown to be zero in the fully-resolved limit, and so fully-resolved simulations provide an appropriate test of the basic filtered-multiphase method, independent of the complex subgrid modeling that would be necessary for unresolved elements. In anticpation of future calculations of droplets, we demonstrate the method with two-dimensional calculations of fluid cylinder oscillations, and compare the results to an analytical solution.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Insights into Protein Compressibility from Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Isothermal compressibility based on molecular dynamics simulations in a normal temperature and pressure (NTP)−Gibbs ensemble is estimated for five solvated globular proteins (bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor, trypsin, ribonuclease A, HEW lysozyme, and α-lactalbumin), as well as bulk water, using the TIP3P model. Protein intrinsic isothermal compressibilities were calculated from molecular total volume fluctuations and averages using the statistical definition of compressibility. A new and efficient method was developed for calculating protein total molecular volume based on an atomic van der Waals radius extension algorithm. The calculated isothermal compressibilities are in good agreement with experimental data (the correlation coefficient is 0.94). The main source of volume fluctuation is the free volume inside the protein, whereas variations in overlap of atomic van der Waals volume are less of a factor. Proteins with low packing density tend to have high compressibility, but packing density alone c...
The Ethics of Pitcher Retaliation in Baseball

In this essay, I discuss whether it is ever permissible for pitchers to retaliate against hitters by trying to hit them. I begin by discussing Socrates’ argument in the Crito that retaliation is never justified. I consider alternatives to Socratic pacifism and then suggest that retaliation is permissible only if someone on the retaliator’s team has been wrongfully harmed by someone on the other team. I then examine three scenarios (1): a pitcher retaliates because the batter (or a teammate) has recently had great success against him (2); a pitcher retaliates because the batter has dishonored (a) the pitcher or (b) the game of baseball; and (3) a pitcher retaliates because a member of the pitcher’s team has been hit by the opposing team’s pitcher. I argue that retaliation is impermissible in (1) and (2), but permissible in (3). My conclusions regarding (1) and (2) are at odds with the prevailing practice of the game; my conclusion regarding (3) is at odds with rule 8.02(d) of major league baseball: “The pitcher shall not intentionally pitch at the batter.”
Fuentes y funciones de los excrementos a lo divino en "Los afectos espirituales" de la Madre Castillo (1671-1742)

This article explores Los afectos espirituales , written by Mother Castillo, feminine text as an example of proper monastic literature of the time. The text uses the metaphor of excrement to the representation of human sin and, if “sin female”.
Evaluating the importance of accessibility to congestion response using a GIS-based travel simulator

This paper examines the effect of accessibility on individual response to unexpected traffic delays and congestion. The dataset used was collected by means of a travel simulator developed within a geographic information system (GIS) environment. The simulator models a commute trip where congestion takes place, and subjects are asked to respond by making a choice among alternative courses of action. Available alternatives for dealing with the unexpected traffic delay include changing the location of the planned activities or changing the activities to be performed. Accessibility to the new locations and to the different activities is computed using a cumulative measure. Analysis using CHAID tree technique found that accessibility is a good predictor of subjects' choice when responding to unexpected traffic delays.
Characterization of a conserved apoptotic marker expressed in Caenorhabditis elegans phagocytic cells

Abstract We have identified and characterized a monoclonal antibody, F2-P3E3, that recognizes a Caenorhabditis elegans apoptotic epitope expressed within phagocytic cells, which is conserved in four other nematode species. In C. elegans, F2-P3E3 staining requires both programmed cell death and phagocytosis. We show that the F2-P3E3 epitope is expressed within embryonic intestinal cells, which act as phagocytes but do not undergo programmed cell death. F2-P3E3 staining is present within LMP-1::GFP labeled organelles in the intestinal primordium and is coincident with persistent DNA that has been phagocytosed in nuc-1(−) embryos, suggesting that it labels phagosomes. While apoptotic events are typically isolated in C. elegans, F2-P3E3 staining is commonly found within adjacent cells. This observation suggests that F2-P3E3 might recognize an epitope expressed in multiple cells in response to signals from a single corpse. F2-P3E3 represents a new tool for studying cell death in C. elegans.
ULTRACENTRIFUGATION STUDIES OF YELLOW FEVER VIRUS.

1. It was possible to study in the ultracentrifuge by optical methods the behavior of yellow fever virus particles directly in the unaltered serum from infected monkeys. 2. The virus showed an extremely high light absorption in the spectral range of 320 to 440 mµ, which seemed to be its intrinsic property. In a 1 cm. thickness of fluid, the small amount of virus present in unaltered infective serum absorbed about as much light (approximately 25 per cent) in the middle of this range as did all the normal serum proteins present in a combined concentration some 1000 times as great. 3. The concentration of virus in the unaltered serum was found to be of the order of 0.00005 gm. per cc. 1 cc. of a 10–9 dilution, which, as has been shown, may constitute a minimal infective dose for monkeys, would contain approximately 10,000 virus particles. The probability that most of the virus particles were in the inactive form is discussed. 4. In infective serum having a viscosity of 14 millipoises, the particles sediment with a blurred boundary at rates lying between approximately 18 and 30 x 10–13 cm./sec./dyne. Evidence indicates that this spread is the result of an aggregation or association phenomenon. 5. Computations of size are in approximate agreement with those made from ultrafiltration studies. On the assumption that the density of the virus particle is near that of protein, its volume is computed to be at least that of a spherical particle having a diameter of 12 mµ. An assumed density of 1.15 gm. per cc. yields a diameter of 19 mµ, considering the shape as spherical.
Nitrous oxide emission from simulated overland flow wastewater treatment systems

Abstract Nitrous oxide evolution was measured from overland flow models receiving daily applications of municipal wastewater with NH 4 + -N concentration in the wastewater of 10 or 47 μgN ml −1 . The amount of N 2 O evolved from the system ranged from 0.07 to 1.3 mg N day −1 , or 1.5–25.5 kg N ha −1 yr −1 , respectively. Liming the soil or increasing the NH 4 + -N in the wastewater increased the emission of N 2 O from the system. The N evolved as N 2 O did not exceed 1.2% of the applied NH 4 + -N, indicating N 2 to be the major denitrification end product in the overland flow wastewater-treatment system.
Identification in computer networks

To communicate across a network system, entities within the system need to be able to identify one another. An identifier usually takes the form of a name or an address. Conventions for the assignment of these identifiers and their resolution affect many aspects of network design. Identification is thus a crucial issue for network architecture and standardization. In this paper, our discussion is first devoted to the semantics of names, addresses, and routes, with emphasis on the relationships among them. We then examine the implications of layered network architecture, syntactic differences of identifiers, and broadcast communication. Finally, we turn our attention to naming and addressing in large dynamic networks.
Note on axial-shear and contour vibrations of prisms

Abstract Exact solutions of the equations of the linear theory of elasticity are given for axial-shear modes of vibration of an isotropic, prismatic bar whose normal section is an equilateral triangle or has the equilateral triangle as a module. A family of contour modes is also described for bars with a rhombic section formed of two equilateral triangles and with sections having the rhombus as a module.
Time course of pathologic changes in kidney allografts of positive crossmatch HLA-incompatible transplant recipients.

Background Recipients of incompatible allografts are at increased risk of graft loss. We hypothesized that analysis of sequential biopsies from these grafts could define progression of graft lesions and identify features predictive of progression. Methods We studied the time course of histologic injury in 745 kidney graft biopsies from 129 patients transplanted with a positive crossmatch human leukocyte antigen-incompatible kidney between 2000 and 2010 (follow-up of 1-9 years). Results Graft survival was 98% at 1 year and 80% at 5 years after transplantation. Throughout follow-up, 70% of patients experienced rejection, with 52% showing subclinical rejection in the first year. Cell-mediated rejection was more frequent than antibody-mediated rejection throughout follow-up. Transplant glomerulopathy (TxGN; cg≥1) developed in 47% of patients over the period of the study, as early as 3 months in a few patients. TxGN was preceded by glomerulitis in more than 90% of cases, with a median time interval of 12 months. Glomerulitis and detectable posttransplantation donor-specific antibodies were risk factors for TxGN (P Conclusions Despite good graft survival, a significant incidence of biopsy-proven rejection occurred in this subset of closely monitored human leukocyte antigen-incompatible recipients throughout follow-up. Microcirculation inflammation, particularly glomerulitis, irrespective of C4d, is associated with a high risk of development of TxGN at 1 year.
Numerical ages for Plio-Pleistocene glacial sediment sequences by 26Al/10Be dating of quartz in buried paleosols

Abstract We describe a method for dating Plio-Pleistocene sediments by analysing 26 Al and 10 Be in quartz from buried paleosols. The method amounts to a generalization of the technique of “burial dating,” which has previously been used to date river sands deposited in caves as well as fluvial terraces. We (a) measure nuclide concentrations at multiple depths in the paleosol; (b) use the geologic context of the sample to construct an exposure/burial history (an “exposure model”) that can be used to predict the nuclide concentrations in the samples as a function of whatever unknown parameters are of geological interest (e.g., the ages of geologic units); and then (c) find the parameters in the exposure model that result in the best fit between predicted and observed nuclide concentrations. We apply the method to a paleosol developed on the uppermost till in eastern Nebraska, which is buried by several middle to late Pleistocene loess units, the ages of some of which are known independently. The lowest loess unit, whose age was not previously known, was deposited 0.58±0.12 Ma, and the till was emplaced 0.65±0.14 Ma, which agrees with existing age constraints from paleomagnetic measurements and the position of the Lava Creek ash in the regional stratigraphy. The most important source of uncertainty in these age determinations is the analytical uncertainty in 26 Al and 10 Be measurements; uncertainties in either the nuclide production rates or the geologic model are comparatively unimportant.
Lithium sputtering from lithium-coated plasma facing components in the NSTX divertor

Lithium sputtering yields and gross impurity influxes from lithium-coated graphite and molybdenum plasma facing components (PFCs) have been analyzed for the first time in the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) divertor during H-mode NBI-heated discharges. Motivated by the beneficial effects of lithium conditioning on discharge performance and reproducibility, evaporative lithium coatings were the routine wall conditioning technique in NSTX. Neutral lithium sputtering yields from solid lithium coatings in NSTX were found to be consistent with values reported from test stand experiments from deuterium-saturated lithium (with sputtering yields Y Li ∼0.03–0.07 Y Li ∼ 0.03 – 0.07 ). Temperature-enhanced lithium sputtering was observed on lithium-coated graphite and molybdenum as a result of PFC heating by both embedded heaters and incident plasma heat flux, leading to Y Li ∼0.1–0.2 Y Li ∼ 0.1 – 0.2 for surface temperatures above the lithium melting point.
The critically ill child with novel H1N1 influenza A: a case series.

Objective: To describe the presentation, course, and outcome of critically ill children with novel H1N1 influenza disease. Design: Retrospective case series. Setting: Pediatric intensive care unit in an urban tertiary academic center. Patients: Thirteen consecutive patients admitted between June 2009 and August 2009 and known or subsequently found to be infected with novel H1N1 influenza A. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: Clinical, laboratory, and radiographic data were reviewed. The patients were predominantly male (62%), aged 5 months to 21 yrs, and most (92%) had known risk factors for severe disease. Direct fluorescent antibody testing had a high false-negative rate (62%) and delayed treatment in some cases. The respiratory illness presented clinically with both bronchoconstriction and alveolar consolidation to varying degrees. Bacterial superinfection occurred frequently (23%). Forty-six percent of patients required mechanical ventilation and 23% required inotropic support for hypotension. None of the patients in this series required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Intensive care unit length of stay did not differ between an early (within 48 hrs) oseltamivir treatment group (length of stay, 4.2 ± 4.4 days) vs. a late treatment group (length of stay, 6.8 ± 8.8 days). All patients survived to hospital discharge. Conclusions: Underlying chronic illness (especially respiratory illness) seems associated with critical novel H1N1 influenza disease in children. Respiratory manifestations are highly variable among patients and within a single patient involving both bronchoconstriction and alveolar disease. Therapies must be individualized and rapidly adjusted. The duration of critical illness was not different between early and late treatment groups. Whether this is reflective of sample size or indicative of the importance of therapeutic intervention at any time early during infection in critically ill patients is unclear. Bacterial superinfection was more common than previously reported for seasonal influenza A. Moderate novel H1N1 influenza disease, including respiratory failure and hypotension, had 100% survival in our series.
DIRECT-CHANNEL RESONANCES IN ANTIPROTON--PROTON ELASTIC SCATTERING.

The effect of a direct-channel resonance on antiproton-proton elastic scattering is investigated. The differential cross section has a nonresonant term, a pure resonant term, and an interference term. It is not possible to say much about the interference term. The angular shape of the pure resonant term depends upon the resonance quantum numbers $C$ and $P$, as well as the spin $J$, but in general resembles the square of the Legendre polynomial ${P}_{J}(\ensuremath{\theta})$. The possibility of a background amplitude in the resonant partial waves affects the enhancements in the total elastic and total cross sections.
A proteomic workflow for discovery of serum carrier protein-bound biomarker candidates of alcohol abuse using LC-MS/MS

The diagnosis and care of patients with alcohol abuse and dependence is hampered by a lack of sensitive and specific screening and monitoring tests. Proteomics is a good approach to search for biomarkers of alcohol abuse. Serum carrier protein-bound proteins have attracted significant interest because they remain a relatively un-mined region of the proteome. In the present study, a proteomic workflow including LC-MS/MS with enrichment of serum carrier protein-bound biomarkers technique was applied to profile the changes in quality and quantity of serum carrier protein-bound proteins for the discovery of novel biomarker candidates of alcohol abuse. In total, 311 proteins identified with high confidence were discovered to be bound to serum carrier proteins. Complement isoforms, Ig fragments, and apolipoprotein family proteins are the main serum carrier-bound proteins. Protein quantification analysis with and without concern as to gender revealed that gender is a critical consideration for biomarker development in alcohol abuse. Identified proteins not previously associated with alcohol abuse include gelsolin, selenoprotein P, serotransferrin, tetranectin, hemopexin, histidine-rich glycoprotein, plasma kallikrein, and vitronectin. Altered abundance of these proteins suggests that they may be potential novel biomarkers for alcohol abuse.
The effect of trimethadione on brain energy metabolism and EEG activity of the conscious rat exposed to HPO

The use of trimethadione (TMO) as a protector in hyperbaric oxygen toxicity in the conscious rat has been examined in detail. The oxidation-reduction state of pyridine nucleotides was measured simultaneously with the EEG activity from the surface of the brain cortex. From the data obtained, a few parameters were calculated. The results show that in TMO-treated animals the time to the onset of convulsions, the time to the onset of NADH oxidation-reduction cycles, and the survival time were significantly longer than in the control group. The effect of TMO on the EEG shows that the tonic phase of the convulsive activity was almost completely abolished.
Deformation behaviour in α/β two-phase super-plastic brass

α/β brass consists of hard α and soft β phase in its superplastic temperature range. Because of the difference between their mechanical properties, the superplastic behaviour of the alloy differs from that of other single-phase and quasi-single-phase alloys. The mechanical properties and microstructure of leaded α/β brass during superplastic deformation were studied and the mechanism is discussed. It is shown that the boundary diffusion controls the superplastic deformation process and boundary sliding is the main deformation mechanism; there is little deformation in the α-phase, and intragranular slip as the accommodating mechanism mainly occurs in β-phase in the superplastic range. It is also shown that the bulk diffusion dominates the deformation process, and intragranular slip is the main mechanism in the non-superplastic range.
Analysis of magneto-optic Kerr effect signals from convergent Gaussian beams

The method uses an amplitude summation of plane-wave elements of the incident beam over all possible angles of incidence and over all azimuths. The Gaussian nature of the beam is dealt with by incorporating an amplitude modulation function into the integration process. Numerical results of the calculation demonstrate clearly that the shot-noise limited signal/noise ratio has a rather weak dependence upon the numerical aperture of the beam, a result consistent with reported experimental observation (see G.A. Connell et al. 1983). >
Library return on investment: Defending the contingent valuation method for public benefits estimation

Abstract Many library return on investment (ROI) studies have been conducted in the United States. Most rely on “cost savings” approaches to determine the marginal benefits of library services. These methods fail to logically have a meaningful relationship to theoretical benefits estimation. Adaptations of the contingent valuation method (CVM) to this application are discussed in reference to the well-known National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration panel guidelines and recent literature. A CVM technique is used to estimate median annual household benefits for Minnesota public library services. Results indicate that CVM likely leads to more conservative estimates than “cost savings” approaches, which is probably due to the realities of available substitutes and low patron marginal benefits from additional transactions. Evidence is provided to limit the usual concerns of the utilized methodology. Focusing on programs for low income and education households may create higher returns more directly attributable to these services.
17q21.31 Microdeletion associated with infantile spasms

Patients with 17q21.31 microdeletions frequently have neurologic abnormalities, especially seizures. This report is of a child with a deletion in this location who developed infantile spasms, a seizure type not specifically described in this syndrome. FISH analysis of parental blood metaphases demonstrated that the deletions occurred de novo. The deleted region encompasses the previously defined critical region for the 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome, and includes the gene encoding for corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1, a protein implicated in hyperexcitability, and potentially in infantile spasms. Treatment with ACTH led to spasm cessation, consistent with its expected repression of CRH levels, which should be augmented by CRHR1 deletion, although this response was transient.
The photochemical carbonylation of benzene, and hydrogenation and hydrosilation of benzaldehyde catalyzed by ruthenium(O) complexes

Abstract The activation and functionalization of an arene C-H bond is achieved in the photochemical carbonylation of benzene catalyzed by the ruthenium-(O) complexes RuCl(CO)(NO)(PPh 3 ) 2 , Ru(CO) 3 (PPh 3 ) 2 and Ru(CO) 4 (PPh 3 ). Under the carbonylation conditions, both RuCl(CO)(NO)(PPh 3 ) 2 and Ru-(CO) 3 (PPh 3 ) 2 convert to Ru(CO) 4 (PPh 3 ). The amount of benzaldehyde formed is limited by the unfavorable thermodynamics of the carbonylation reaction, C 6 H 6 + CO → C 6 H 5 CHO, which has Δ G 0 298 of + 1.7 kcal mol −1 . Both Ru(CO) 3 (PPh 3 ) 2 and Ru(CO) 4 (PPh 3 ) catalyze the photochemical hydrogenation and hydrosilation of benzaldehyde as well. While coupling of either of these reactions with the carbonylation of benzene produces an overall reaction which is thermodynamically favorable, the use of CO/H 2 and CO/-HSiEt 3 mixtures does not dramatically improve the yield of benzene carbonylation products.
The Solubility of Calcium Phosphate in Fresh Milk

Summary A calculation has been made of the calcium ion concentration of normal fresh milk. This calculation is based on recent experimental results bearing on the mutual effects of hydrogen, calcium, phosphate and citrate ions on one another. A calculation of the ion product (Ca ++ )×(HPO 4 = ) in normal fresh milk gives a value less than that of the corresponding solubility product. Experimental evidence as to the validity of the method of calculation is offered in the form of an experiment in which the precipitation of calcium phosphate was prevented by the presence of citrate. It is concluded that the solubility of calcium phosphate in milk is affected by the amount of citrates present and that this effect is probably specific.
Effect of adrenalectomy and cortisone replacement on the lipolysis in fat tissue and fat cells

Studies on the norepinephrine-stimulated lipolytic system of rat epididymal fat tissue and fat cells revealed that adrenalectomy causes two lesions in the lipolytic system:
The primary health care provider's role in sexual assault prevention.

The prevention of sexual assault has traditionally been considered a criminal justice issue, but current epidemiologic and medical research has identified risk factors and sequelae that warrant greater attention from the medical community. Population-based research over the past decade has identified a much higher incidence of sexual victimization than was previously described in government reports. Furthermore, the perpetrator is often known to the victim. Recent research has also confirmed that the sequelae of victimization have far-reaching effects on the physical, psychological, and behavioral functioning of victims, their families, and partners. The definition of sexual assault has expanded to encompass a variety of forced sexual activity including childhood sexual abuse, date rape, marital rape, as well as sexual assault by an acquaintance or stranger. While the medical community has addressed the importance of identifying women with a history of abuse or assault, little attention has been directed toward sexual assault prevention. Standard preventive medicine principles provide the framework within which guidelines and recommendations may be established to aid the primary care provider in primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of sexual assault. This article describes current findings regarding the scope of sexual assault, rationale for using a preventive approach, and recommendations for prevention efforts that can be implemented by the primary care provider.
Teaching aid demonstrations

The rapid expansion of the electrical sciences is reflected in the engineering curriculum where a concentration on theory at the expense of experimentally derived knowledge has left the student's grasp of fundamental principles in a shaky condition. Teaching aids can help anchor the student to bedrock principles and facts while his head spins in the mists of theory
Cultural Beliefs about Disability in Practice: Experiences at a Special School in Tanzania

This article examines cultural beliefs and values about disability in one Tanzanian community and the influence of those beliefs on a school for children with disabilities. The larger ethnographic study examined the role of beliefs in the community and the development of the school curriculum. This study used the models of disability as a framework for classifying and understanding the different belief systems present. The study was conducted in a rural community in Tanzania at a school for children with developmental disabilities. In this community, multiple models of disability were present, but the socio-cultural and pluralistic models were most prevalent. Beliefs centred about the causes of disability, God’s plan or role in the community, and a mixture of Christian, Muslim, and traditional beliefs. Participants saw the school staff as integral to influencing beliefs about disability in the community through their presence and outreach efforts.
Electron redistribution in disulfide bonds under torsion

The origin of the conformational preference of acyclic disulfides is elucidated with population analyses and electron density maps of extended Huckel wave functions for HSSH and H3CSSCH3. Overlap population between the sulfurs is greatest when the dihedral angle about the S-S bond is near 90° because the negative contributions from the repulsive interactions of the lone-pair electrons are minimized in this conformation. Electron density maps are introduced to illustrate the rearrangement of the valence electrons in HSSH when the molecule is formed from the isolated atoms and the redistribution which occurs when the molecule is twisted about the S-S bond. A “C”-shaped distribution is found for the lone-pair clouds around each sulfur. The spacing between these clouds and the transfer of density away from the sulfurs toward the hydrogens are enhanced when the dihedral angle is near 90°.
Detection of in Vivo synthesis of polycistronic mRNAs of vesicular stomatitis virus

The in vivo synthesis of polycistronic transcripts of vesicular stomatitis virus in human amnion U cells and mouse L cells was detected by RNA blot hybridization. Within the molecular weight range resolved by this gel electrophoresis system, all possible combinations of sequentially linked messages were observed, as identified by their patterns of hybridization and their apparent molecular weights. Actinomycin D pretreatment of mouse L cells did not affect the frequency or size of polycistronic messages, nor did these differ between L cells and U cells. Vesicular stomatitis virus polycistronic transcripts were synthesized in vivo in a roughly uniform distribution, except for the NS-M dicistronic mRNA, which was much more frequent. Most of the polycistronic RNA species were found to be poly(A)+, but at least one, the tetracistronic molecule N-NS-M-G, was clearly poly(A)-. Analysis of RNA following treatment with RNase H in the presence of oligo(dT) indicated that the in vivo-synthesized poly(A)+ polycistronic species NS-M, M-G, and N-NS-M had poly(A) tracts at their 3' molecular termini but not internally at their intercistronic junctions.
First-order unbinding transition of an interface in two dimensions

A two-dimensional model describing the unbinding of an interface from an attracting substrate, induced by a defect line in the bulk, is proposed. It contains Abraham's model as a special case. Although only short-range interactions are present, a sharp first-order unbinding transition is shown to take place. The model is formulated in terms of both the solid-on-solid model and Ising spins. Thermodynamic properties are evaluated exactly in both cases. The average interface distance from the substrate and the full magnetization profile are calculated in the solid-on-solid version. The first-order transition is discussed in light of Cahn's wetting criterion.
A theoretical study of MR sensors in vertical recording

Abstract We have investigated the theoretical linear density resolution of an MR head, shielded or unshielded, reading a vertical medium, with or without underlayer. The shielded MR has a high - 3 dB density. Dibit bitshift is much smaller with maximum-slope than with zero-crossing detection. Finally, presence of an underlayer degrades linear resolution.