cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimized Flashlamp Pumping of Disc Amplifiers

Disk amplifier design for inertial fusion lasers has evolved with changing fusion-driver requirements from a primary emphasis on gain to a primary emphasis on efficiency. In this paper we compare Shiva and Nova amplifiers to a developmental amplifier (SSA) and show greater than a two-fold improvement in efficiency over past designs under all operating conditions. Experiments to optimize the efficiency of the SSA show that preionization of the flashlamps produces significant benefits and that the packing fraction of lamps is more important than the flashlamp reflector shape. They also show that the optimized flashlamp pulselength and reflector geometry depend on the desired stored energy in the laser medium. We have demonstrated a 7% storage efficiency at a stored fluence per disk of 0.5 J/cm2 (stored energy density of 0.06 J/cm3) and 4% at 2.0 J/cm2 (0.25 J/cm3). Comparison of SSA measurements with storage-efficiency calculations show that our flashlamp model accurately predicts the single-pass pumping of disk amplifiers.© (1986) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
From the Special Issue Editors: Business Intelligence

The field of business intelligence (BI) has a vast and rich history. It finds its roots in the areas of decision support system, executive information systems, and data warehousing. While BI means ...
The Impact of Perforation Geometry on Acoustic Damping Attributes of a Perforated Liner With Bias Flow

Acoustic damping properties of perforated liners are highly dependent on a number of variables which can be categorized as “flow variables” such as the extent and Mach number of grazing flow as well as bias flow and “geometric variable” such as the shape of the hole which can be rectangular, cylindrical, conical with diverging or converging nozzle, thickness to radius ratio, radius to hole spacing ratio and hole orientation which can be normal to or inclined with respect to the perforated plate. Many of these variables were not incorporated in previous studies.Theoretical and empirical approaches have provided the foundation for understanding the damping properties of liners but they are based on certain simplifying assumptions making them inadequate in addressing the more realistic conditions encountered in industrial applications. These limitations have highlighted the importance of numerical methods for studying damping behavior of liners. Acoustic attributes of perforated plates (mainly in terms of impedance which is a frequency-dependent complex quantity) as a function of non-dimensional variables like Reynolds, Strouhal, Mach, and Helmholtz numbers have been studied by various researchers, including the authors, using a variety of numerical tools starting from the simple 1D network scheme based on linear acoustics and the wall compliance concept introduced by Howe all the way to the computationally intensive Large-Eddy Simulations (LES) and Scaled Adaptive Simulation (SAS) reconstructing the full unsteady turbulent structures. Although the impacts of some geometry variations such as hole inclination angle and diameter, in conjunction with various fluid dynamic parameters, have been investigated using 1D network tools, the focus of LES has been mainly on analysis of a single circular hole with periodic boundary conditions as the representation of multi-perforation (assuming the perforations are spaced far enough from each other so that there is no interaction between neighboring holes). There is certainly a need for thorough investigation of the acoustics impact of these geometric parameters as well as shape of the holes using LES.In an on-going research we are extending the numerical modeling work on characterizing the acoustic damping attributes of a perforation, beyond the current state of the art, by including the geometric variables including hole size, shape, orientation, and radius to thickness ratio, amongst others, in the study. In this paper, following a short review of the research conducted in the recent past for comprehension of the acoustic-vortex interaction mechanism in perforated liners resulting in acoustic absorption, we present the findings on the impact of thickness/radius ratio on the acoustic damping attribute of a perforation. The verification of the CFD results are done by comparing the data with analytical solutions.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Ionic control of renal gluconeogenesis III. The effects of changes in pH, pCO2, and bicarbonate concentration

Abstract The effect of changing pH, pCO2 and HCO3− concentration upon the formation of glucose from a variety of substrates, and the rates of decarboxylation of these substrates was studied in isolated rat renal tubules. A decrease in pH whether brought about by an increase in pCO2 or a decrease in HCO3− concentration led to an increase in glucose production from citrate, glutamine, glutamate and α-ketoglutarate but not from malate or pyruvate. Conversely an increase in pH, whether due to an increase in HCO3− concentration or a decrease in pCO2, led to an inhibition of glucose formation from all substrates. An increase in pH brought about by an increase in HCO3− concentration produced a greater inhibition than an increase in pH brought about by a decrease in pCO2. In both instances alkalosis was associated with a decrease in cellular ATP content. In the case of both citrate and α-ketoglutarate, the rate of substrate disappearance followed the same pattern as glucose production, but in the case of malate and pyruvate their rates of disappearance decreased with a fall in pH even though glucose formation did not change, and their rates of disappearance did not change when pH was increased even though glucose production fell markedly. A change in total HCO3− concentration from 30 to 15 mM, maintaining a constant pH of 7.2±0.02, resulted in an increase in glucose formation from citrate, glutamine, and α-ketoglutarate but not from malate or pyruvate. This increase was less than that seen after the pH fell. When HCO3− concentration was raised from 30 to 60 mM, at constant pH, there was a fall in rate of glucose formation from all substrates. This fall was comparably to that seen in respiratory alkalosis but less than that seen in metabolic alkalosis. These data, plus data from measurements of metabolic concentrations under different conditions of pH, pCO2 and HCO3− concentration and measurements of substrate decarboxylation in both tubules and isolated renal mitochondria, led to the conclusions that when pH is lowered either by a fall in HCO3− or an increase in pCO2, the major regulator of gluconeogenesis is H+ concentration which acts to inhibit citrate synthetase and activate both isocitrate and succinate dehydrogenase, all mitochondria enzymes. Conversely, a decrease in H+ concentration could account for only part of the changes observed in alkalosis. The fall in H+ concentration led to a decrease in ATP concentration which led in turn to an inhibition of phosphoglycerate kinase. In addition, an increase in HCO3− concentration has a specific inhibitory effect upon phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, a cytosolic enzyme.
A comparison of the WPPSI and Stanford‐Binet intelligence scale (1972) among lower SES black children

The study compared the performance of 35 lower SES black kindergarten children on the WPPSI and the 1972 Norm Edition of the Stanford-Binet, Contrary to the findings of previous investigations before the restandardization of the Binet, the WPPSI was found to yield a significantly higer mean IQ than the Binet. While there were no sex differences. significant age-related differences were found. Results were interpreted as suggesting that the WPPSI might be a more appropriate measure of cognitive ability for black children of lower socioeconomic status.
Analysis of the effects of manufacturing errors on the accuracy of dual-elbow and elbow manipulators☆

Abstract The geometry of the robotic structure directly influences the positional and orientational capabilities of a manipulator. Among the existing robot geometries, the ideal dual-elbow and elbow manipulators are the most prevalent because of their excellent posing abilities and because they provide the maximum dextrous and reachable workspaces for a given total link length. These geometries, however, are very sensitive to small manufacturing errors that distort their ideal arrangement of joint axes and impact on their accuracy. In this paper, realistic dual-elbow and elbow geometries, incorporating modeled manufacturing errors are considered and their accuracy is contrasted and compared. A set of criteria consisting of statistical measures is developed to evaluate the performance of the realistic geometries in terms of accuracy. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the realistic dual-elbow geometry for the same amount of distortion and dictate its use, especially for high-precision applications.
Variation in question asking during cancer clinical interactions: A potential source of disparities in access to information

Abstract Objective To investigate whether patient demographic characteristics and patients’ companions influence variation in patient question asking during cancer clinical interactions, thus representing a potential disparity in access to information. Methods Data included 109 oncologist–patient–companion interactions video recorded at a comprehensive cancer center. Interactions were observed and analyzed using the Karmanos Information Seeking Analysis System (K-ISAS). Results Significant relationships were found between patient race/ethnicity and question asking. Black patients asked fewer questions and a smaller proportion of direct questions (relative to the total frequency of questions) than White patients. Black patients were also less likely to have companions present during the interaction, which resulted in fewer questions asked on Black patients’ behalf. Conclusion Differences in question asking by Black and White patients suggest that Black patients may receive less information from their oncologists than White patients. Practice/research implications Patients should be encouraged to ask more questions and more direct questions and to bring a companion to the interaction to assist them in gaining information from their physician. Future research is needed to investigate ways to eliminate this potential source of disparities in access to information.
Further studies of a zinc-air cell employing a packed bed anode Part III: Improvements in cell design

A laboratory-scale zinc-air cell described previously has been redesigned with the intention of improving its performance. The zinc was present as a packed bed of 600 µm particles and in this concept the electrolyte and particles are replaced with fresh ones at the end of discharge, permitting the use of a monofunctional air electrode. The improved design had a reduced electrolyte volume on the air side of the cell and better electrical connection to the bed of particles, along with more conveniently located conduits for electrolyte flow driven by natural convection. When discharged at room temperature under the Simplified Federal Urban Driving Schedule (SFUDS) regimen (modified to eliminate regenerative braking) the cell yielded energies that were 2.8 times higher than the original cell (Part I). Increasing the cell temperature (up to 55°C) was found to bring further improvements. Natural convection was shown to be necessary for good cell performance.
EFFECTS OF SELECTED CATALYSTS ON KINETIC PARAMETERS OF THE CARBON-STEAM REACTION

A comparison has been made between the catalytic effects of two groups of elements on the steam gasification of carbon: the alkaline earths and noble transition metals of Group VIII. Spectroscopically pure graphite was selected as a model carbon because it consists of well-defined crystals with a large number of atoms located in basal planes, which, without a catalyst, are of low reactivity. Moreover, foreign atoms which can enhance or inhibit catalysis are eliminated. Local overheating is prevented by the endothermic reaction with steam. It is not possible to distinguish unambiguously reaction-rate increases associated with a lowering of the activation energy and those caused by an increase of the reaction-site density. Thus conclusions about the mode of catalyst action are by necessity tentative. However, evidence from electron micrographs, in connection with elemental maps and theoretical calculations indicates that catalysis in the case of alkaline earths can be explained essentially by an increase of...
A mathematical model for synergistic eukaryotic gene activation

The precise biochemical mechanism underlying the synergistic action of gene activators on eukaryotic transcription has eluded a solution, largely because of the technical difficulties inherent in analyzing the mechanics of a 2.5 MDa complex comprising greater than 50 polypeptide components. To complement the biochemical approach we have employed mathematical modeling as a means to understand the mechanism of synergy. Parameters relevant to activated transcription were varied in a simple biochemical system and the data were compared to the transcriptional response predicted by a multi-component statistical model. We found that the model achieved a consistent, semi-quantitative description of the measured transcriptional response, and enabled the characterization and measurement of thermodynamic parameters in the in vitro system. The results provide evidence for the existence of cooperativity in the activation process beyond what would be predicted from one current model suggesting that activators function solely by simple recruitment of the general transcription machinery to the promoter.
Loss of the polycomb mark from bivalent promoters leads to activation of cancer-promoting genes in colorectal tumors.

In colon tumors, the transcription of many genes becomes deregulated by poorly defined epigenetic mechanisms that have been studied mainly in established cell lines. In this study, we used frozen human colon tissues to analyze patterns of histone modification and DNA cytosine methylation in cancer and matched normal mucosa specimens. DNA methylation is strongly targeted to bivalent H3K4me3- and H3K27me3-associated promoters, which lose both histone marks and acquire DNA methylation. However, we found that loss of the Polycomb mark H3K27me3 from bivalent promoters was accompanied often by activation of genes associated with cancer progression, including numerous stem cell regulators, oncogenes and proliferation-associated genes. Indeed, we found many of these same genes were also activated in ulcerative colitis patients where chronic inflammation predisposes them to colon cancer. Based on our findings, we propose that a loss of Polycomb repression at bivalent genes combined with an ensuing selection for tumor-driving events plays a major role in cancer progression.
Designation of the TARP syndrome and linkage to Xp11.23-q13.3 without samples from affected patients†

The Robin sequence is a well-known cause of cleft palate and can be sporadic or familial, isolated or syndromic. We present a four-generation family with a lethal disorder inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern that includes Talipes equinovarus, Atrial septal defect, Robin sequence, and Persistence of the left superior vena cava. We have designated this disorder “TARP” syndrome. All affected males die in infancy of unknown causes. An X-chromosome linkage scan was performed using 14 unaffected members of a single large family and 40 STRP markers. The gene was mapped to an 11-cM region in Xp11.23-q13.3. Markers DXS1003 and DXS8092 flank the region and three-point linkage analyses revealed a maximum LOD score of 2.75 at marker DXS1039. We have designated this locus as TARP. This locus was mapped without genotyping any affecteds and demonstrates that rare, lethal disorders can be evaluated by genetic linkage, even when no affected probands are available for study. Published 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
On the application of micromechanics to the prediction of macroscopic thermal residual stresses in short‐fiber reinforced polyetheretherketone

A micromechanics theory is outlined for predicting the elastic and thermoelastic properties of dispersed, short fiber systems. This micromechanics theory is then applied to the prediction of macroscopic thermal residual stresses in a poly(etheretherketone). (PEEK)-glass. Fiber system, in an effort to determine the influence of crystallinity on residual stress development.
Biofeedback effect on electromyography responses in patients with spinal cord injury

Abstract Objective: To determine if electromyography (EMG) biofeedback procedures using an operant conditioning paradigm could significantly increase voluntary EMG responses from the triceps muscles of long term cervical spinal cord injured individuals. Design: Intervention study with before-after trial measurement with each subject as its own control. Setting: University outpatient clinic. Participants: One hundred individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries C6 or higher that were greater than 1-year duration, and who had less than normal strength and recordable EMG activity from the triceps, and who had reached a plateau in return of function. The first 100 individuals meeting this criteria who presented sequentially for EMG testing and biofeedback were included. No subjects were deleted from the sample. Intervention: Muscle strength and surface EMG recording during attempts at elbow extension were obtained. The EMG pretest data were derived from the highest average recorded voluntary EMG response from the triceps during elbow extension. One 45-minute treatment session of EMG biofeedback for the triceps in an operant conditioning paradigm was provided for each of the 100 subjects. Seventy-five subjects received an average of 3 additional biofeedback treatment sessions. The posttest EMG data were derived from EMG measurements of the triceps during attempts at elbow extension from the 45-minute biofeedback treatment session and from the last additional biofeedback treatment session in a similar manner to the pretest procedures. Main Outcome Measures: A significant increase in EMG activity occurred from the triceps ( p p Conclusions: the results suggest the efficacy of biofeedback for increasing voluntary EMG responses in long term spinal cord injury patients.
Development and application of lidar technology for environmental studies

At NOAA's Earth System Research Laboratory, lidar systems have been developed and applied to environmental probing for more than three decades. Progressing from early investigations of atmospheric turbidity and winds employing ruby and CO2 lasers, current work is focused on the application of sensors to measure atmospheric properties important for improving air quality understanding and forecasting, and quantifying important climate forcing mechanisms. Additionally, lidar systems are being used for probing the ocean to observe fish schools and marine mammals for research on estuarine health. Here we briefly describe development and applications of lidar systems for characterizing winds and turbulence in the atmosphere, distribution and transport of ozone and aerosol concentrations in urban areas, and inventory of fish stocks in coastal water.© (2007) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Putting risk into perspective: The US medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use

Unintended pregnancy remains a considerable problem in the United States, with health risks for both mother and infant. These risks may be increased among women with medical conditions, for whom pregnancy can lead to severe adverse outcomes. Highly effective and safe contraceptive methods are available to prevent unintended pregnancy. However, women with medical conditions and their providers also may be concerned about potential risks associated with contraceptive method use. Evidence-based guidance documents can be helpful tools for clinicians to efficiently use evidence and put risks into perspective. The US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2010, provides evidence-based recommendations for the safety of contraceptive use among women with medical conditions and other characteristics. While some contraceptive methods pose risks for some women, these must be considered in context and weighed against such considerations as the absolute risk of adverse events and the risks associated with pregnancy. Most women, even women with medical conditions, can safely use highly effective methods of contraception and promoting their use will further efforts to reduce unintended pregnancy.
Serum Lactate Is a Better Predictor of Short-Term Mortality When Stratified by C-reactive Protein in Adult Emergency Department Patients Hospitalized for a Suspected Infection

Study objective We determine whether C-reactive protein (CRP) adds prognostic value to serum lactate levels when assessing mortality risk in emergency department (ED) patients admitted for a suspected infection. Methods This was an observational cohort of unique adult patients (≥21 years of age) who had lactate and CRP testing in the ED and were admitted for a suspected infection during a 1-year period. All data were collected through retrospective chart review. The study site is an urban teaching hospital with an approximate annual census of 95,000 patients. The endpoint was 28-day inpatient mortality. Results One thousand one hundred forty-three patients had lactate and CRP testing in the ED, an admitting diagnosis of infection, and complete records. Twenty-eight-day inpatient mortality for patients with both a lactate level greater than or equal to 4.0 mmol/L and CRP level greater than 10.0 mg/dL was 44.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 32.5% to 55.5%), for lactate greater than or equal to 4.0 mmol/L and CRP less than or equal to 10.0 mg/dL, it was 9.7% (95% CI 2.7% to 16.7%), and for lactate level less than 4.0 mmol/L, it was 9.1% (95% CI 7.3% to 10.9%). In a logistic regression model that included patient demographics and Charlson score, as well as 4 separate dichotomous variables that were positive only in subjects with (1) serum lactate greater than or equal to 4.0 mmol/L and CRP level greater than 10.0 mg/dL, (2) lactate level greater than or equal to 4.0 mmol/L and CRP level less than or equal to 10.0 mg/dL, (3) lactate level less than 4.0 mmol/L and CRP level greater than 10.0 mg/dL, and (4) lactate level less than 4.0 mmol/L and CRP level less than or equal to 10.0 mg/dL (as reference), patients with both a lactate level greater than or equal to 4.0 mmol/L and CRP greater than 10 mg/dL had an increased risk of 28-day inpatient mortality (odds ratio 12.3; 95% CI 6.8 to 22.3). Conclusion In this cohort, patients with both an increased CRP level and hyperlactatemia had a higher mortality rate than patients with abnormalities of either laboratory test in isolation.
Gas/Solvent-Induced Transformation and Expansion of a Nonporous Solid to 1:1 Host Guest Form

Both gas (CO2, N2O and propane) and solvent (CS2 and acetone) molecules can induce the transformation and expansion of the guest free thermodynamic form of p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene to a 1:1 host:guest form.
Racing and Erasing the Playboy: Slang, Transnational Youth Subculture, and Racial Discourse in Brazil

This article explores the complex negotiation of race, class, and space that surrounds the Brazilian Portuguese slang term 'playboy.' It is argued that youth use this slang term to grapple with transnational debates around race and to make sense of their nation's situation of stark inequality. Poor black male youth, in particular, use this social label to challenge their marginalization from the Brazilian nation-state, constructing themselves as more empowered racial and political subjects. Yet their more controversial semantic shifts are reinterpreted by dominant society, erasing the race of the playboy and diffusing their critique of Brazil's alleged racial democracy.
Spectroscopic observations of Fermi-degenerate aluminum compressed and heated to four times solid density and 20 eV

Abstract Shock waves generated by temporally shaped laser ablation compressed and heated Al to ρ = 11 ± 5 g/cm3 and 20 ± 2 eV. The inferred density and temperature demonstrate that highly compressed, Fermi-degenerate plasma can be created by tuning the temporal pulse shape of the laser drive intensity. The density and temperature of these plastic-tamped Al plasmas in the warm dense matter regime were diagnosed using the Stark-broadened, Al 1s–2p absorption spectral line shapes. These observations represent the forefront of opacity measurements for warm dense matter and are important for high energy density physics and inertial confinement fusion.
Background levels of 226Ra in the lower troposphere

Abstract 226Ra concentrations in precipitation, surface air and soil samples are presented. Natural 226Ra in the atmosphere is attributed mainly to wind entrainment of surface soils and vegetation. Estimates of the pollutant contribution of 226Ra in the atmosphere over the U.S. from coal-burning power plants range from 2.5 to 28% of the 226Ra present in the lower troposphere.
Application of the advanced communications technology satellite for teleradiology and telemedicine

The authors have an in-kind grant from NASA to investigate the application of the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) to teleradiology and telemedicine using the JPL developed ACTS Mobile Terminal (AMT) uplink. This experiment involves the transmission of medical imagery (CT, MR, CR, US and digitized radiographs including mammograms), between the ACTS/AMT and the University of Washington. This is accomplished by locating the AMT experiment van in various locations throughout Washington state, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Hawaii. The medical images are transmitted from the ACTS to the downlink at the NASA Lewis Research Center (LeRC) in Cleveland, Ohio, consisting of AMT equipment and the high burst rate-link evaluation terminal (HBR-LET). These images are then routed from LeRC to the University of Washington School of Medicine (UWSoM) through the Internet and public switched Integrated Serviced Digital Network (ISDN). Once images arrive in the UW Radiology Department, they are reviewed using both video monitor softcopy and laser-printed hardcopy. Compressed video teleconferencing and transmission of real-time ultrasound video between the AMT van and the UWSoM are also tested. Image quality comparisons are made using both subjective diagnostic criteria and quantitative engineering analysis. Evaluation is performed during various weather conditions (including rain to assess rain fade compensation algorithms). Compression techniques also are tested to evaluate their effects on image quality, allowing further evaluation of portable teleradiology/telemedicine at lower data rates and providing useful information for additional applications (e.g., smaller remote units, shipboard, emergency disaster, etc.). The medical images received at the UWSoM over the ACTS are directly evaluated against the original digital images. The project demonstrates that a portable satellite-land connection can provide subspecialty consultation and education for rural and remote areas. The experiment is divided into three phases. Using the ACTS fixed-hopping beam, phase one involves testing connection of the AMT to medical imaging equipment and image transmission in various climates in western and eastern Washington state. The second phase involves satellite relay transmissions between the Inmarsat satellite and the ACTS/AMT through a ground station in Hawaii for medical imagery originating from either Okinawa, Japan or Kwajalein, in the Pacific. The third phase involves extended use of the ACTS steerable beam in Washington state, Idaho, Montanan and Oregon.
Angular Dependence of the Interaction Energy Between the N Lone Pair of Amines and a Proton: Relevance to Drug-Receptor Systems

Ab initio molecular orbital calculations with a 4-31G basis set have been performed to study the angular dependence of the interaction energy between a lone electron pair of nitrogen and a proton. In this study ammonia and trimethylamine were used as models of biologically active amines. A proton was used as a model of an electrophilic site at the receptor. Results obtained confirm previous indications that the energy required to bend the proton from the lone pair direction decreases markedly as the two species are further separated from one another. Implications regarding the interactions of drugs and hormones at specific receptors are discussed.
The pharmacotherapy for pit viper envenoming in the United States: a brief retrospective on roots, recurrence, and risk.

The report by Bush and colleagues ( “ Comparison of F(ab ’ ) 2 versus Fab antivenom (AV) for pit viper envenomation: A prospective, blinded, multicentre, randomized clinical trial ” ) 1 in this issue of Clinical Toxicology presents the results of a controlled Phase-3 study comparing the therapeutic effi ciency of two Fab AVs, equine-derived F(ab ’ ) 2 and ovine-derived Fab (Fig. 1), for treating pit viper (crotaline) envenomation. The study was conducted at 18 clinical sites and included envenoming attributed to at least 12 identifi ed crotaline species with the majority (102) of bites ascribed non-specifi cally as “ rattlesnake ” or “ unidentifi ed ” bites. Most of the 114 patients ultimately included in the three study groups (F(ab ’ )2/F(ab ’ ) 2 , F(ab ’ ) 2 /placebo, and Fab/ Fab) exhibited characteristics reasonably representative of commonly encountered envenomed patients in the US, for example, predominantly white males with a median age between 32.9 and 45.6 years. Children aged less than 10 years, and mostly in the F(ab ’ ) 2 /F(ab ’ ) 2 group, were also included. The study by Bush et al. (2014) 1 provides encouraging support for the clinical effi ciency of F(ab ’ ) 2 AV against North American pit viper venoms, as their study reports a notably lower percentage of patients who experienced late coagulopathy when respectively comparing the F(ab ’ ) 2 /placebo (5.3%) and F(ab ’ ) 2 /F(ab ’ ) 2 (10.3%) groups with the Fab/Fab (29.7%) group. Also, although the overall adverse event incidence was similar in the F(ab ’ ) 2 /F(ab ’ ) 2 and Fab/Fab groups, adverse events associated with coagulopathy or hemorrhage (e.g., petechiae and gingival bleeding) were reported in 8.1 – 9.3% of those in the F(ab ’ ) 2 /placebo and F(ab ’ ) 2 /F(ab ’ ) 2 groups in comparison to 24.4% in the Fab/Fab group. Of the nine patients who reportedly experienced serious adverse events, two-thirds were in the F(ab ’ ) 2 /F(ab ’ ) 2 group, but the authors indicate that all of these were not associated with the AVs, and provide several examples supporting their assertion. There were no reported life-threatening anaphylactic reactions in any of the groups. The authors thus reported an absolute risk reduction of 19.5% (F(ab ’ ) 2 /F(ab ’ ) 2 ) to 24.5% (F(ab ’ ) 2 /placebo), thereby
Phytic acid treatments for pre-peeled potatoes

Pre-peeled potatoes dipped for one minute in 0.7 per cent solution of phytic acid or 0.5 per cent calcium phytate and 1000 ppm sulphur dioxide and packed in polyethylene bags were not discolored after 16 days storage at 40–42° F.
Noninfarct vascular dementia and Alzheimer dementia spectrum

Abstract Vascular dementia is an overarching superordinate category of which multiinfarct vascular dementia is only one subtype. To contribute to the definition of vascular dementia, method involved investigation of mental status, oral language and comprehension in 81 consecutive vascular patients comprising two vascular samples: cerebral infarct sample ( n =43) and cerebral noninfarct sample ( n =38). To determine baseline, method also involved investigation of 36 demographically equivalent normal elderly. Results indicate both vascular samples performed significantly worse than normal elderly. Results further indicate there were no robust, reliable, significant differences between cerebral infarct and cerebral noninfarct patients. The lack of significant differences between cerebral infarct and cerebral noninfarct vascular samples brings into focus the ambiguous transition between diffuse, generalized disease and the multifocality underlying the vascular dementia–Alzheimer dementia spectrum. Cross-cutting infarct and noninfarct vascular populations were vascular factors of arteriosclerosis, abnormal blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, abnormal electrocardiogram, peripheral vascular disease, and other variables implicated in the distal causality of both infarct and noninfarct vascular dementias. Results indicate cerebral infarction is not the only path to the final common phenotype of vascular dementia. Vascular dementia is reconceptualized so as to include noninfarct vascular dementia: vascular dementia caused by underlying vascular factors other than cerebral infarction. It is suggested that one form of the subtype of noninfarct vascular dementia is Alzheimer-type vascular dementia.
Cellular targets of antilymphocyte antibodies in AIDS and LAS.

Abstract Many patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and lymphadenopathy syndrome (LAS) have serum antilymphocyte antibodies. The targets of these antibodies are neither sex nor HLA directed. There is disagreement about the cell subset at risk. We examined the cellular specificity of antilymphocyte antibodies from AIDS and LAS patients by microcytotoxicity on positively selected lymphocytes, by using double-labeling immunofluorescence, and by using well-characterized continuous cell lines as targets. We find that most AIDS LAS patients have antibodies to T and B cells, that immunofluorescence is somewhat more sensitive than microcytotoxicity, and that the antibodies are directed to both T4+ and T4− lymphoid cells.
Calcium signaling components of oscillating invertebrate neurons in vitro

We have studied the Ca(2+) dynamics of bursting-spiking neurons in the lobster stomatogastric ganglion. Neurons in this ganglion undergo spontaneous oscillations in membrane voltage with a period of 1-10 s in situ. We found that neurons isolated from the ganglion and filled with the fluorescent calcium indicator Fluo-4 show simultaneous changes of membrane potential and cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](I)). These Ca(2+) signals are highly heterogeneous both in terms of amplitude and time constants. They showed variable spatial distributions with the soma exhibiting low and slow signals, and a region in the process with large and fast signals. Ca(2+) transients in the processes are dependent on external Ca(2+) and can be blocked by Co(2+), but not other, more specific Ca(2+) current blockers. Rather, nifedipine a known Ca(2+) current blocker, affects the distribution of the Ca(2+) signal, which suggests a specific localization of Ca(2+) channels. Although the signal is not absolutely dependent on action potentials, it is greatly reduced when action potentials are blocked by tetrodotoxin. Termination of the signal depends only slightly on Ca(2+) buffering mechanisms such as mitochondria, Ca(2+)/Na(+) and Ca(2+)/H(+) exchangers. We also demonstrate the presence of caffeine-sensitive internal stores in stomatogastric ganglion cells. The store distribution is different but overlaps with the voltage-dependent distribution. The maximal caffeine-activated Ca(2+) signal is in the soma and it is smaller in the processes. Unlike the voltage-activated Ca(2+) signal this signal is not blocked by Co(2+). Nevertheless, the two types of signal interact during caffeine application. This unique spatial separation of two Ca(2+) sources may have important functional implication.
An Exploratory Comparison of Three Methods of Memory Assessment with the Intracarotid Amobarbital Procedure

Abstract This paper has two objectives. The first is to compare three methods of amobarbital memory assessment in 172 adults prior to epilepsy surgery. The three methods are significantly different from one another and there was only a moderate degree of concordance between them; concordance depended upon the method, the side of surgery, and the side of speech. The second objective of the paper is to evaluate the relative abilities of the methods to differentiate, prior to surgery, patients who did and who did not suffer mild to moderate postoperative losses in verbal memory following surgery. To meet this objective, a subsample of patients was selected based on the presence or absence of this type of memory loss. Significant differences in the ability of the amobarbital methods to identify the patients at risk for postoperative memory loss were observed, with the method assessing recall memory during drug presence having the best prediction rate.
Stent-assisted coiling of wide-necked aneurysms in the setting of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage: experience in 65 patients.

Background Stent-assisted coiling in the setting of subarachnoid hemorrhage remains controversial. Currently, there is a paucity of data regarding the utility of this procedure and the risks of hemorrhagic and ischemic complications. Objective To assess the utility of stent-assisted coil embolization and pretreatment with antiplatelet agents in the management of ruptured wide-necked aneurysms. Methods A retrospective study of 65 patients with ruptured wide-necked aneurysms treated with stent-assisted coiling. Patients with hydrocephalus or a Hunt and Hess grade ≥ III received a ventriculostomy before endovascular intervention. Patients were treated intraoperatively with 600 mg of clopidogrel and maintained on daily doses of 75 mg of clopidogrel and 81 mg of aspirin. The Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) score was recorded at the time of discharge. We identified major bleeding complications secondary to antiplatelet therapy and cases of in-stent thrombosis that required periprocedural thrombolysis. Results Of the aneurysms, 66.2% arose within the anterior circulation; 69.2% of patients presented with hydrocephalus or a Hunt and Hess grade ≥ III and required a ventriculostomy. A good outcome (GOS of 4 or 5) was achieved in 63.1% of patients, and the overall mortality rate was 16.9%. There were 10 (15.38%) major complications associated with bleeding secondary to antiplatelet therapy (5 patients, 7.7%) or intraoperative in-stent thrombosis (5 patients, 7.7%). Three (4.6%) patients had a fatal hemorrhage. Conclusion Our findings suggest that stent-assisted coiling and routine treatment with antiplatelet agents is a viable option in the management of ruptured wide-necked aneurysms.
International capital mobility: net versus gross stocks and flows

Abstract Feldstein and Horioka (1980) observed that net capital flows have been small in relation to domestic saving and investment flows for OECD countries in the post-war period, which they interpreted as evidence of low capital mobility. This paper argues that the correlation between gross domestic and international financial flows can be a better indicator of capital mobilitythan net capital flows. Contrary to the conventional wisdom among international economists, gross flows have been small in relation to gross domestic asset creation for OECD countries, although by this measure the degree of capital mobility increased in the 1980s.
Response to "What do Klein et al. tell us about test scores in Texas?"

Wherein the authors reply to Toenjes, Vol. 13 No. 36 "What do Klein et al. tell us about test scores in Texas?"
The Effect of Ion Implantation on the High Temperature Deformation of Molybdenum

Thin sheet specimens of molybdenum have been ion implanted and subjected to high temperature deformation at different initial stresses. Implantation with heavy ions causes a reduction in resistance to high temperature deformation at high stress levels but little effect at low stress levels. Carbon implantation on the other hand causes a marked increase in high temperature deformation resistance at high stress levels but, again, almost no effect at low stress levels. Transmission electron microscopy has been performed to determine the structures produced by implantation and implantation plus annealing. The test results can be explained by consideration of the nature of the damage introduced by ion implantation.
Migrating a Digital Library to a Private Cloud

A private cloud deployment of an infrastructure as a service (IaaS) clusteris a cost effective solution to many small and intermediate digital libraries and maybe companies. As a working online digital library search engine, the physical infrastructure of CiteSeerX represents many of the clusters for a typical digital library in terms of size and functionalities. CiteSeerX used to run on a cluster consisting of eighteen loosely coupled physical machines. In this work we share the experiences and lessons learned through migrating CiteSeerX into a private cloud environment using virtualization technique. We also discuss alternative solutions including a public cloud deployment using Amazon EC2 and EBS services. We found that the private cloud via virtualization is a better model for a digital library system like CiteSeerX. We also report system status, activities and proposed variations after the new system has been running for over half a year.
Spatially Resolved Heat Transfer and Friction Factors in a Rectangular Channel With 45-Deg Angled Crossed-Rib Turbulators

Spatially resolved Nusselt numbers, spatially averaged Nusselt numbers, and friction factors care presented for a stationary channel with an aspect ratio of 4 and angled rib turbulators inclined at 45 deg with perpendicular orientations on two opposite surfaces. Results are given at different Reynolds numbers based on channel height from 10,000 to 83,700. The ratio of rib height to hydraulic diameter is 078, the rib pitch-to-height ratio is 10, and the blockage provided by the ribs is 25% of the channel cross-sectional area. Nusselt numbers are given both with and without three-dimensional conduction considered within the acrylic test surface. In both cases, spatially resolved local Nusselt numbers are highest on tops of the rib turbulators, with lower magnitudes on flat surfaces between the ribs, where regions of flow separation and shear layer reattachment have pronounced influences on local surface heat transfer behavior. The augmented local and spatially averaged Nusselt number ratios (rib turbulator Nusselt numbers normalized by values measured in a smooth channel) vary locally on the rib tops as Reynolds number increases. Nusselt number ratios decrease on the flat regions away from the ribs, especially at locations just downstream of the ribs, as Reynolds number increases. When adjusted to account for conduction along and within the test surface, Nusselt number ratios show different quantitative variations (with location along the lest surface), compared to variations when no conduction is included. Changes include: (i) decreased local Nusselt number ratios along the central part of each rib top surface as heal transfer from the sides of each rib becomes larger and (ii) Nusselt number ratio decreases near corners, where each rib joins the flat part of the test surface, especially on the downstream side of each rib. With no conduction along and within the test surface (and variable heat flux assumed into the air stream), globally-averaged Nusselt number ratios vary from 2.92 to 1.64 as Reynolds number increases from 10,000 to 83,700. Corresponding thermal performance parameters also decrease as Reynolds number increases over this range, with values in approximate agreement with data measured by other investigators in a square channel also with 45 deg oriented ribs.
Aging and immunity in nonhuman primates: I. Effects of age and gender on cellular immune function in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Immunity declines with advancing age. Lymphocyte proliferation, natural killer cell activity, and antibody response to tetanus toxoid vaccination were evaluated in cohorts of rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) aged 2-36 years in order to characterize senescent changes in immune function. The results were analyzed in accordance with host age. Lymphocyte proliferation was generally low in older monkeys, especially males. Lymphocytes from old male monkeys responded significantly less to test mitogens than did those of old female (P<.05) or young males and females (P<.01). Natural killer cell function was similarly decreased in old monkeys; however, for this function there was no apparent gender difference. Antibody response to tetanus vaccine was less in older monkeys but was also low in several of the younger moskeys. These data confirm our expectation that, like other mammalian species, the rhesus monkey shows a decline in immune function with age and demonstrate further that the changes are more marked in males. Rhesus monkeys, therefore, are suitable for the investigation of mechanisms of immune senescence.
Interleukin 15 skews monocyte differentiation into dendritic cells with features of Langerhans cells.

Langerhans cells (LCs) represent a subset of immature dendritic cells (DCs) specifically localized in the epidermis and other mucosal epithelia. As surrounding keratinocytes can produce interleukin (IL)-15, a cytokine that utilizes IL-2Rγ chain, we analyzed whether IL-15 could skew monocyte differentiation into LCs. Monocytes cultured for 6 d with granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and IL-15 differentiate into CD1a+HLA-DR+CD14−DCs (IL15-DCs). Agents such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α, and CD40L induce maturation of IL15-DCs to CD83+, DC-LAMP+ cells. IL15-DCs are potent antigen-presenting cells able to induce the primary (mixed lymphocyte reaction [MLR]) and secondary (recall responses to flu-matrix peptide) immune responses. As opposed to cultures made with GM-CSF/IL-4 (IL4-DCs), a proportion of IL15-DCs expresses LC markers: E-Cadherin, Langerin, and CC chemokine receptor (CCR)6. Accordingly, IL15-DCs, but not IL4-DCs, migrate in response to macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-3α/CCL20. However, IL15-DCs cannot be qualified as “genuine” Langerhans cells because, despite the presence of the 43-kD Langerin, they do not express bona fide Birbeck granules. Thus, our results demonstrate a novel pathway in monocyte differentiation into dendritic cells.
The importance of decisions and free-choice attitude change: A curvilinear finding

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to determine the effect of decision importance on free-choice attitude change. It was predicted that the magnitude of the free-choice effect would be a quadratic function of the importance of the decision: The greatest change was expected following a decision of moderate importance, while decisions of high and low importance were expected to produce less change. In the first experiment, subjects were asked to choose a gift subscription to one of several magazines. Importance was manipulated by varying the length of the subscription. In the second experiment, subjects were asked to endorse their preferred candidate for a political office. Importance was manipulated by varying the office for which the candidates were vying and the use to which the subjects' selections would be put. The results of both studies were consistent with the predictions. The implications of the quadratic findings for subsequent research were discussed.