cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using Eco-Guilt to Motivate Environmental Behavior Change

Informed by research on trait empathy and eco-guilt and their impacts on environmental behaviors, this paper explores whether the themes from a pro-environment video game spur environmental behavio...
DOES THE NUMBER OF PATELLOFEMORAL INSTABILITY EPISODES CORRELATE WITH THE PREVALENCE AND SEVERITY OF CHONDRAL AND OSTEOCHONDRAL LESIONS IN PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT PATIENTS

Disclosures:NoneBackground:Current literature indicates that the risk of chondral and osteochondral injuries following patellofemoral instability events ranges from 40 to 96%. It is unclear based o...
Compliant and Large-Strain Twisted String Actuators using Supercoiled Polymers

Twisted string actuators (TSAs) can produce linear motions by converting the electric motor’s rotary motion. TSAs exhibit high power density, energy efficiency, and translational force. However, a common challenge in utilizing TSAs as soft and compliant actuators is to simultaneously increase their compliance and maximum strain. Previous studies predominantly utilized strings with high stiffness. Recent studies attempted to use strings with low stiffness with a sacrifice of maximum strain, especially under large loading conditions. In this paper, a novel strategy is proposed to simultaneously increase the compliance and maximum strain of TSAs. By replacing stiff strings with stretchable and coiled nylon strings, called supercoiled polymer (SCP) strings, the compliance of the TSA is increased. Furthermore, by heating the TSA with SCP strings through Joule heating, additional linear contraction is obtained. The fabrication procedure of the proposed TSA is provided. Experimental characterizations of stiffness and actuation properties are conducted with different actuator configurations and loading conditions. Experiments confirm the enhanced performance of the proposed TSA using SCPs.
A Data Science Expert Social Network: From Personal Follower List to Social Network Structure

The researchers combined two lists of 28 favorite “data science experts to follow on Twitter” to seed a Twitter network and analyze whether the recommended experts were indeed amongst the most influential “data science experts” on Twitter. They analyzed the resulting Twitter network to find the most important nodes in terms of popularity, quality of connections, types of roles played, such as bridges, and node ability to quickly spread information. They found that only some of the recommended experts appeared most influential given the network analysis. They also found that the experts on the list landed mainly in two sub-groups. Starting with a writer's favorite list of experts may be helpful in seeding a more comprehensive list.
Methanol toxicity: An unintended consequence of the covid-19 pandemic

Introduction: Although “parent alcohols” such as methanol and ethylene glycol are relatively non-toxic, they can lead to profound toxicity after being metabolized by alcohol dehydrogenase. Methanol poisoning is characterized by a high anion gap metabolic acidosis and can have a variety of central nervous system manifestations ranging from inebriation to coma and seizures, with afferent pupillary defect a sign of advanced methanol poisoning. Early recognition and treatment are key. Here we present a case of severe methanol toxicity secondary to hand sanitizer ingestion early in the COVID-19 pandemic. Case: A 54-year-old man with a history of alcohol use disorder presented to the Emergency Department after being found down and unresponsive near the front door of his home. Earlier that day he was “acting strange” according to his girlfriend. She left their home to get help, and upon her return found him in the front yard unresponsive and having seizure activity. Upon arrival to the Emergency Department he was afebrile, hypotensive, and tachycardic. He was unresponsive so he was emergently intubated. Physical exam was significant for asymmetric, dilated, and fixed pupils. Labs were significant for a bicarbonate of 5, potassium of 7.2, an anion gap of 28, and an osmolar gap of 177. His methanol level was 396. Despite dialysis he progressed to multi organ failure and his family decided to transition to comfort care, soon after which he expired. After further questioning it was discovered that he had been drinking hand sanitizer in an effort to get intoxicated as they were out of alcohol in the house. The bottle found in the home was reported to the FDA. Upon their review it was removed from store shelves due to methanol contamination and potential risk to others. It is believed that this brand of hand sanitizer was a new brand sold during the COVID-19 pandemic shortage and had a false ingredient label. Discussion: This patient had many of the characteristic signs and symptoms of methanol poisoning and was an unfortunate example of how devastating the outcome can be. However, it also highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic has had many unintentional medical consequences as a result of socioeconomic health disparities, the challenge of treating substance abuse disorder, and poorly regulated consumer products.
An immune-competent, replication-permissive Syrian Hamster glioma model for evaluating Delta-24-RGD oncolytic adenovirus.

Background Oncolytic adenoviruses are promising new treatments against solid tumors, particularly for glioblastoma (GBM), and preclinical models are required to evaluate the mechanisms of efficacy. However, due to the species selectivity of adenovirus, there is currently no single animal model that supports viral replication, tumor oncolysis, and a virus-mediated immune response. To address this gap, we took advantage of the Syrian hamster to develop the first intracranial glioma model that is both adenovirus replication-permissive and immunocompetent. Methods We generated hamster glioma stem-like cells (hamGSCs) by transforming hamster neural stem cells with hTERT, simian virus 40 large T antigen, and h-RasV12. Using a guide-screw system, we generated an intracranial tumor model in the hamster. The efficacy of the oncolytic adenovirus Delta-24-RGD was assessed by survival studies, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were evaluated by flow cytometry. Results In vitro, hamGSCs supported viral replication and were susceptible to Delta-24-RGD mediated cell death. In vivo, hamGSCs consistently developed into highly proliferative tumors resembling high-grade glioma. Flow cytometric analysis of hamster gliomas revealed significantly increased T-cell infiltration in Delta-24-RGD infected tumors, indicative of immune activation. Treating tumor-bearing hamsters with Delta-24-RGD led to significantly increased survival compared to hamsters treated with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Conclusions This adenovirus-permissive, immunocompetent hamster glioma model overcomes the limitations of previous model systems and provides a novel platform to study the interactions between tumor cells, the host immune system, and oncolytic adenoviral therapy; understanding of which will be critical to implementing oncolytic adenovirus in the clinic.
Social Motives for Sharing Conspiracy Theories

The spread of conspiracy theories has significantly hindered our ability to deal with crises related to the pandemic, climate science, and many other political and social issues. Therefore, it is crucial to understand why people share conspiracy theories. Recent work suggests that people share misinformation because they are inattentive. Across three preregistered studies (total N=1,560 Prolific workers), we show that people also knowingly share misinformation to advance social motives. We find that when making content sharing decisions, people make calculated tradeoffs between sharing accurate information and sharing information that generates more social engagement. Even though people know that factual news are more accurate than conspiracy theories, they expect sharing conspiracy theories to generate more social feedback (i.e. comments and “likes”) than sharing factual news. Lastly, in an interactive multi-round content-sharing paradigm, we find that people are very sensitive to the social feedback they receive in the environment. Giving more positive social feedback for sharing conspiracy theories significantly increases people’s tendency to share these conspiracy theories that they do not believe in. Our findings substantially develop our understanding of why and when individuals are most likely to share conspiracy theories. These findings also make important contributions to understanding and curbing the spread of misinformation.
Suicide Risk Among Hospitalized Versus Discharged Deliberate Self-Harm Patients: Generalized Random Forest Analysis Using a Large Claims Data Set.

Introduction Suicide rates are extremely high among emergency department patients seen for deliberate self-harm. Inpatient hospitalization is often recommended for these patients, but evidence on the suicide prevention impacts of hospitalization is scarce. Confounding by indication and challenges to implementing randomized designs are barriers to advances in this field. Methods Investigators used 2009–2012 statewide data on 57,312 self-harm emergency department patients from California, linked to mortality records. Naive 12-month and 30-day suicide risks were estimated among patients who were hospitalized versus those who were discharged. Then, generalized random forest methods were applied to estimate the average treatment impacts of hospitalization on suicide, conditioning on observable covariates. Associations were calculated separately for sex- and age-specific subgroups. Analyses were conducted in February 2019–August 2021. Results In naive analyses, suicide risk was significantly higher in hospitalized than in discharged patients in each subgroup. In 12-month models accounting for the observed covariates through generalized random forest methods, hospitalized male patients had 5.4 more suicides per 1,000 patients (95% CI=3.0, 7.8), hospitalized patients aged 10–29 years had 2.4 more suicides per 1,000 (95% CI=1.1, 3.6), and those aged ≥50 years had 5.8 more suicides per 1,000 (95% CI=0.5, 11.2) than corresponding discharged patients. Hospitalization was not significantly associated with suicide among female patients or patients aged 30–49 years in generalized random forest analyses. Patterns were similar in 30-day generalized random forest models. Conclusions Emergency department personnel intend to hospitalize self-harm patients with high suicide risk; this study suggests that this goal is largely realized. Analyses that control for confounding by observable covariates did not find clear evidence that hospitalization reduces suicide risk and could not rule out the possibility of iatrogenic effects.
Shopping Behavior: a Cross-Cultural Comparison

Historically retailers have been used to catering to consumers in their domestic market. However, this situation is no longer true. There has been a growth in the number of international retailers, most of whom originated in advanced industrialized countries like the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and Japan. Such examples include - entry of Sears into Mexico, South America, Spain, and Japan; entry of Walgreens into Mexico. Another trend emerging in the United states is the growing ethnic diversity of its own population.
Fractal applications in biology: scaling time in biochemical networks.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes some of the terms and concepts of modern dynamical systems theory, including chaotic dynamics and fractals, with suggested applications. Although chaos and fractals are different concepts that should not be confounded, they intersect in the field of modern nonlinear dynamics. The general motivation for biologists to examine chaotic dynamics and fractal geometries arises from recognition that most of physics addresses only simple systems, no matter how elaborate the mathematical apparatus seems to the uninitiated. The chapter explores the possible relevance of fractals to the understanding of both structure and function in biology. It is hypothesized that biological systems are not inherently noisy but follow state-determined dynamics (motion and change) of the deterministic chaotic class. Their chaotic dynamics produce their marginal stability, many of their structures, and their fractal organization of time. Fractals can pertain to the organization of both space and time. In the case of generating fractal trees as computer images of this recursion, if the parameters remain constant through various generations of branching, a somewhat regular tree that looks like a bracken fern is obtained, but if the parameters for the branchings are random, then very irregular shapes are obtained. In the mathematical generation of fractals by recursion rules, the orders of magnitude from zero to infinity are permitted. Classic Fourier-based spectral analysis consists of fitting time history data with a linear series of sines and cosines.
Implementing a practical fuelwood conservation policy: The case of Sri Lanka☆

Abstract Despite the almost universal recognition of the importance of fuelwood conservation and management in developing countries, the formulation and implementation of practical programmes has proved to be difficult. This paper describes the recent experience in Sri Lanka in establishing a National Fuelwood Conservation Programme (NFCP) within the overall context of a national energy strategy (NES). Among the important factors leading to a workable policy consensus were institutional reforms and the use of simple but plausible models to demonstrate the dire consequences of inaction.
Effects of Self-Appraisal Information, Appraisal Purpose, and Feedback Target on Performance Appraisal Ratings

This experiment investigated the effects of three factors on performance appraisal ratings: self-appraisal information, appraisal purpose, and feedback target. Two hundred and three subjects rated a subordinate's performance on a clerical task subsequent to receiving either a high or low self-assessment. They were told they would provide performance feedback either to the experimenter (organizational agent) or their subordinate, and their ratings would be used either for an administrative decision or developmental feedback. Performance ratings were significantly higher when subjects received a favorable subordinate self-assessment than when self-assessments were unfavorable. A significant interaction was found between feedback target and the appraisal purpose. Implications for the use of self-appraisals in organizations were discussed.
Properties of a Particulate Chitin Synthetase from Mucor rouxii

Abstract The properties and behavior of a "microsomal" (100,000 x g particles) chitin synthetase of Mucor rouxii were investigated. The enzyme utilizes uridine diphosphate N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) as glycosyl donor and is strongly and specifically activated by free N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GlcNAc). A variety of GlcNAc analogues were tested as activators but were found ineffective. A small proportion of free GlcNAc was incorporated into chitin; however, the activation of chitin synthetase by GlcNAc is probably an allosteric effect. Seemingly, UDP-GlcNAc is also a positive allosteric effector of the enzyme. Diacetylchitobiose was also synthesized in the reaction mixtures. However, the kinetics of its formation do not support the proposal that this dimer is an intermediate in chitin synthesis. Added primer was not essential for the operation of the microsomal chitin synthetase. Nevertheless, addition of higher N-acetylchitodextrins produced large stimulations indicative of primer shortage in the particles. Certain lipid extracts of M. rouxii proved to be highly stimulatory for chitin synthesis. However, efforts to obtain evidence for a lipid intermediate proved negative. Chitin synthetase was also stimulated by ATP, CTP, and GTP but UDP was inhibitory. Optimum pH was about 6.5. The enzyme was exceedingly susceptible to Mg++ concentration. Microsomal chitin synthetase was relatively stable in the frozen state if suspended in phosphate buffer but not in Tris buffer. Mitochondrial (10,000 x g) enzyme, by contrast, rapidly decayed under similar conditions.
The reactions of CCl2FO2 with NO and NO2 and the thermal decomposition of CCl2FO2NO2

CCl2FO2 radicals are produced in the stratosphere from the oxidation of CCl2F radicals produced from the photodissociation of CCl3F. The reactions of CCl2FO2 with NO and NO2 were studied by steady state photolysis at 1 atm and 286-305 K. The reactions were CCl2FO2 + NO yields CCl2FO + NO2 and CCl2FO2 + NO2 (+M) yields CCl2FO2NO2 (+M) with k3/k4 = 0.58 plus or minus 0.10 over this temperature range.
A model browser for biosimulation.

The complexities of biological simulation present difficulties with modeling and experimenting. Simulators process models represented as code, whereas biologists think about abstract models. Our ModelBrowser addresses this difficulty through interactive visualization. Variables and equations appear as a directed graph of nodes and edges, and the user can search and browse this graph by performing queries on metadata associated with the variables and the connectivity of the edges. The browser also supports a hierarchical categorization of the variables, such as by an ontology. We believe that the ModelBrowser will help biologists reason about code in the context of the abstract model, so that they can understand and modify others’ code and debug their own.
The army special operations aircraft integrated avionics subsystem-an operational perspective

The authors focus on integration techniques utilized to enhance an operator interface and contain pilot workload within acceptable levels. The US Army MH-47E and MH-60K special operations aircraft (SOA) provide the capability to perform the Army's clandestine, deep-penetration missions in adverse weather, at night, over any terrain which the aircraft can traverse. The inherent complexity of this mission required an extensive avionics subsystem (IAS). The ultimate success of any integrated system hinges on the ability of the operators to access system capabilities and interpret system data in a timely fashion. Through the use of workload-reducing integration techniques, the IAS design has allowed capabilities to be successfully managed by a two-operator aircrew. >
Electrophoretic separation of esterases of Alaria marcianae (La Rue, 1917) (Trematoda).

1. 1. Disc electrophoresis was used to determine the esterase isoenzymes present in adults of the strigeoid trematode Alaria marcianae (La Rue, 1917). 2. 2. Eight esterase bands were found with α-naphthyl acetate as the substrate and Fast Blue RR as the dye. 3. 3.|From results obtained with inhibitors, four different types of esterases were tentatively identified; cholinesterase (one band), ali-esterase or B-type (one band), arylesterase or A-type (2 bands) and acetylesterase or C-type (4 bands).
Integrated infrared sensor system for on line monitoring of thermally sprayed particles

AbstractThe structure and properties of thermally sprayed coatings depend directly on the state of the particles before impact on the substrate or the already deposited coating layers. Monitoring particle parameters can thus provide a unique tool for optimising coating properties as well as controlling spraying processes during coating deposition. In this paper, a new optical sensing device for on line monitoring of temperature, velocity, diameter, and trajectory of in flight particles during coating production is described. Thermal radiation emitted by in flight particles is collected by a sensing head that can be attached to the gun providing continuous monitoring of the spray process. The collected radiation is transmitted through optical fibres to a detection cabinet located away from the dusty environment around the operating spray gun. Tests were carried out on two identical plasma torches with significant differences in deposition efficiency. Measured particle flowrates were in agreement with effic...
Structural and magnetic studies on rare-earth compounds RNiAl and RCuAl

Abstract RNiAl and RCuAl crystallize with the Fe 2 P structure. This structure type is less densely packed than the Laves phases. Most of these materials order ferro-magnetically at low temperature but ErNiAl and TmNiAl, which according to the de Gennes function should exhibit relatively weak ferromagnetism, are shown to be subtle metamagnets. The presence of the crystalline electric field is felt rather strongly by the 4ƒ shells of Pr and Nd in this environment so that these materials are exchange enhanced ferromagnets.
Vaginismus and failed in vitro fertilization

Abstract The new reproductive technologies have allowed many couples battling infertility to achieve a viable pregnancy. There are couples, however, with serious treatable sexual difficulties, such as vaginismus, who may use these expensive technologies to bypass normal intercourse and conceive without ever consummating the sexual relationship. A couple with 11 years of unconsummated marriage came to our clinic after two unsuccessful inseminations and two failed In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycles performed at another center. After reviewing the history and careful physical examination, the patient was diagnosed with vaginismus. She was referred to sex therapy, where after eight sessions she was able to achieve penetration and enjoy a satisfactory sexual life with her husband. After resolution of vaginismus she became pregnant without further painful and costly interventions. The purpose of this case review is to suggest greater collaboration between sex therapists, gynecologists and primary care practiti...
Shear layer instabilities in low-density transverse jets

The near-field shear layer instabilities forming in round transverse jets of variable (reduced) densities relative to the crossflow are investigated through gas-phase experiments. Jets composed of helium and nitrogen mixtures are injected from a converging nozzle mounted flush with an injection wall into air crossflow, allowing the jet-to-crossflow density ratio S to be varied between 1.00, the equidensity case, and 0.14, at constant jet Reynolds number Re j = 1,800. Jet-to-crossflow momentum flux ratios J are examined in the range $$\infty>J\geq5$$ at incremental values of the density ratio S. The results of single-component hotwire measurements in the jet shear layer indicate that a transition to global instability likely occurs as J is brought below approximately 10, and/or as S is brought below approximately 0.45–0.40. This observation appears to link many previous independent studies of both equidensity transverse jets and low-density free jets, which may become globally unstable under alteration of J and S, respectively. However, the dynamical character of the transition to global instability in the low-density transverse jet displays differences under independent variation of J and S, which may indicate the predominance of different modes.
The internal disclosure policies of private-sector employers: An initial look at their relationship to employee whistleblowing

Whistleblowers have usually been treated as outcasts by private-sector employers. But legal, ethical, and practical considerations increasingly compel companies to encourage employees to disclose suspected illegal and/or unethical activities throughinternal communication channels. Internal disclosure policies/procedures (IDPP's) have been recommended as one way to encourage such communication.
A new method of compensation using pole-zero cancellation applied to the design of a voltage-controlled buck converter

Three design methods for compensation of a voltage-control buck converter are (1) a single dominant pole; (2) two real zeros, two real poles; and (3) two complex zeros and two real poles. The paper will give the design procedure and equations for the three circuits , allowing designers to pick the Q of the system, the bandwidth, and the dc gain. The comparison was made for an amplifier gain of 100. The filter elements and the load were the same in all cases. Dynamic damping was used to give a filter Q of 0.707 to optimize the transient response to dynamic load changes. The frequency response was 350 Hz for the dominant-pole case for an optimized flat response, and 1000 Hz with an approximate flat response for the other two cases. Because all systems had an approximately flat response, the expected differences were seen in the rise time caused by frequency-response differences and, particularly , in the sensitivity of the response to changes in the values of the filter inductance, capacitance, and load resistance. Sensitivities were determined for each element.
Nonpharmacologic treatment of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias

Numerous nonpharmacologic modalities have been introduced for the management of patients with life-threatening arrhythmias. These include cardiac pacing, insertion of an automatic internal cardiac defibrillator (AICD), cardiac electrosurgery, and catheter ablative techniques. Each modality is effective; AICD shows particular promise because it has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in decreasing the incidence of sudden cardiac death in patients with malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Each modality also has its limitations or contraindications. Nonpharmacologic antiarrhythmic therapy represents an important advance against the serious public health problem of sudden cardiac death.
Literature Review: Update on Amphetamine Neurotoxicity and Its Relevance to the Treatment of ADHD:

Objective: A review of amphetamine treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was conducted, to obtain information on the long-term neurological consequences of this therapy. Met...
Quantitative Determination of Lactic and Succinic Acids in Frozen Whole Eggs by Gas‐Liquid Chromatography

SUMMARY— Frozen whole egg containing known amounts of lactic and succinic acids were evaluated using gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) and AOAC (1960) procedures. The acids were isolated from the whole egg samples by liquid-liquid extraction, evaporated to dryness, and refluxed for 2 hr with 1-butanol and HCI and chromatographed as their butyl ester derivatives, along with an internal standard. Peak heights and responses relative to butyl decanoate as an internal standard were used to calculate acid concentrations in the whole egg samples. Lactic acid recovered from whole egg samples by GLC procedures ranged from 98% at the low concentration (0.43 mg/100 g egg) to 99% at the high concentration (47.70 mg/100 g egg). Succinic acid recovered from whole egg samples by GLC procedures ranged from 103% at the low concentration (1.22 mg/100 g egg) to 98% at the high concentration (73.20 mg/100 g egg). Acid recoveries from whole egg samples by GLC procedures were as accurate, and generally less variable, than those recovered by AOAC (1960) procedures.
How has Indian Federalism Done

Two tropes have dominated discussions of Indian federalism: fiscal and constitutional. Isolated exceptions aside, scholars have not linked India’s federalism to comparative theories of nationalism,...
The Role of Mass Balance Equations in Growth Mechanics Illustrated in Surface and Volume Dissolutions

Growth mechanics problems require the solution of mass balance equations that include supply terms and account for mass exchanges among constituents of a mixture. Though growth may often be accompanied by a variety of concomitant phenomena that increase modeling complexity, such as solid matrix deformation, evolving traction-free configurations, cell division, and active cell contraction, it is important to distinguish these accompanying phenomena from the fundamental growth process that consists of deposition or removal of mass from the solid matrix. Therefore, the objective of this study is to present a canonical problem of growth, namely, dissolution of a rigid solid matrix in a solvent. This problem illustrates a case of negative growth (loss of mass) of the solid in a mixture framework that includes three species, a solid, a solvent, and a solute, where the solute is the product of the solid dissolution. By analyzing both volumetric and surface dissolutions, the two fundamental modes of growth are investigated within the unified framework of mixture theory.
Role of the Met-Tyr-Trp cross-link in Mycobacterium tuberculosis catalase-peroxidase (KatG) as revealed by KatG(M255I).

Catalase-peroxidases (KatGs) are bifunctional enzymes possessing both catalase and peroxidase activities. Four crystal structures of different KatGs revealed the presence of a novel Met−Tyr−Trp cross-link which has been suggested to impart catalatic activity to the KatGs. To decipher the individual roles of the two cross-links in the Met−Tyr−Trp adduct, we have focused on recombinant Mycobacterium tuberculosis KatG(M255I). UV−visible spectroscopic and mass spectrometric studies of the peptide fragments resulting from tryptic digestion of KatG(M255I) confirmed the presence of the single Tyr−Trp cross-link, as well as a 2e- oxidized form which is postulated to be an intermediate generated during Met−Tyr−Trp cross-link formation. KatG(M255I) lacking the Tyr−Trp cross-link was also prepared, and incubation with peroxyacetic acid, but not 2-methyl-1-phenyl-2-propyl hydroperoxide, resulted in complete formation of the Tyr−Trp cross-link. A mechanism for Tyr−Trp autocatalytic formation by KatG compound I is prop...
Left Ventricular Performance During Muscular Exercise in Patients with and without Cardiac Dysfunction

The LVEDP, cardiac output, and V o o2 were measured before and during supine muscular exercise in 38 patients. The normal pattern, established in seven patients without left ventricular dysfunction, consisted of an exercise factor [see Equation in PDF File], an LVEDP during exercise of less than 12 mm Hg, and little change or a decrease in LVEDP, which was accompanied in most instances by an increase in the stroke volume. In the majority of 31 patients with various cardiac lesions, but without valvular regurgitation, measurement of the LVEDP before and during exercise permitted the definition of normal or abnormal left ventricular function when the status of the left ventricle could not have been ascertained from other measurements. Thus, in most of the patients with mitral stenosis and abnormal resting hemodynamics, the pattern of left ventricular function during exercise was considered to be normal. Among the patients with aortic stenosis or left ventricular myocardial disease and elevated resting LVEDP, two types of abnormal performance of the left ventricle were identified. In some patients, an increase in LVEDP was accompanied by an increase in stroke volume, and this response was termed "abnormal left ventricular dynamics"; in the remaining patients, an increase in LVEDP and no change or a fall in stroke volume occurred and this response was termed "depressed left ventricular function." It is concluded that determination of the LVEDP before and during exercise adds importantly to measurements of the changes in cardiac output and O 2 consumption in characterizing left ventricular performance. The method employs standard catheterization techniques and appears to provide a practical and useful means for evaluating the functional status of the left ventricle in patients with and without myocardial dysfunction.
The hemoglobins of Artemia salina. IV. A model for genetic control of hemoglobin 1, hemoglobin 2, and hemoglobin X.

Two loci account for all genetic variation resulting in difference in electrophoretic mobility in three hemoglobins (Hb1, Hb2, and HbX) in the hemolymph of the brine shrimp. Four α alleles and nine β alleles have been studied. In shrimps of all genotypes and in electrophoresis in media with varying degrees of molecular sieving, Hb2 is approximately equidistant from Hb1 and HbX. A shrimp heterozygous at both loci has a three-banded Hb1, a four-banded Hb2, and a three-banded HbX. We conclude that Hb2 contains n α-polypeptides and n β-polypeptides. Hb1 contains 2n α-polypeptides. HbX contains 2n β-polypeptides. During electrophoresis, the three native hemoglobins undergo reversible dissociation to n subunits. Subunits with the same charge reassemble to migrate as molecules of the same size as the native molecules. Although there is no evidence for an additional polypeptide in the three hemoglobins, we cannot exclude such a possibility. If it exists, it is under three constraints: (1) it must be present in equal amounts in each of the three hemoglobins; (2) it must have the same molecular weight as the α- and β-polypeptides; and (3) it must be free of genetic variation (detectable by electrophoresis).
Neural controllers for electrical power steering systems

Modern electric cars require electrical power steering systems (EPAS). Many control algorithms where employed in this field. Some of these controllers exhibit robustness and stability problems for certain road conditions. Neural networks are known for their ability to imitate systems and stay stable if operation conditions change. In this paper we use neural controllers to imitate the Hoo controller we have already designed to control the EAPS system. We collect the Hoo performance signals and use them as training data for the suggested neural controllers. Fuzzy Adaptive Resonance Theory (fuzzy ARTMAP) and back propagation neural controllers are used in this paper to do the control act. The performance of each controller is recorded for comparison purposes.
Management of Hernias in Pregnancy

Background Even though groin and umbilical hernias are rare in adult women, the rarer cases of pregnant women presenting with hernias create distinct challenges to treatment planning. The course of hernias in pregnant women, the effect of hernias on delivery, and the timing of elective herniorrhaphy have not been established. To date, there have been no published series establishing that postpartum repair of umbilical and groin hernias that develop in pregnancy is safe and acceptable. Study Design From September 2004 to July 2006, 12 female patients with groin or umbilical hernias occurring during pregnancy presented to a single surgeon at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. All patients later underwent postpartum herniorrhaphy and were enrolled retrospectively. All patients underwent either open umbilical or inguinal hernia repair primarily or using a plug-and-patch method (Bard Mesh PerFix Plug; Davol) in an ambulatory setting. Mean longterm followup was 17 months. Results Mean age of the patients was 35 years (range 27 to 41 years). The most common type of hernia was inguinal (58%). The predominant side was right (86%). None of the patients had an associated diagnosis or clinically significant medical history. All patients were evaluated, operated, and followed up by the same surgeon. Neither incarceration nor strangulation occurred in any patient before or after delivery. None required hospitalization or emergent hernia repair. Patients did not experience any delivery complications. All patients underwent elective postpartum open hernia repair with sedation and local anesthesia (4 to 52 weeks postpartum; mean 22 weeks postpartum). No patient experienced any perioperative or postoperative complications. None of the patients experienced a hernia recurrence. Four patients had subsequent uncomplicated pregnancies. Conclusions This series lends support to the "watchful waiting" strategy during pregnancy, with a plan for postpartum herniorrhaphy. Elective, postpartum hernia repair provides similar results to the nonpregnant population.
Transfer of rewarded responses in personality judgments

A total of 108 students in five high-school psychology classes judged 32 facial photographs on four personality traits. Students worked in pairs, one making the judgments (“performing”), the other checking correct answers (“observing”) when the experimenter called them out after all subjects had judged the face on all four traits (emotionality, intelligence, shyness, and sincerity). Students traded roles after the first 16 items. Male performers selected previously correct traits more often than did male observers when they were asked to select the “most outstanding” trait for each face in a subsequent test. This result provides some support for the predicted strengthening by reward with information controlled. No difference occurred for females.
Absolute intensity measurements of the CO2 bands 401III←000 and 411III←010

Abstract The absolute intensities of the transitions 401 III ←000 and 411 III ←010 of CO 2 have been measured from spectra obtained under high resolution. Both the vibration-rotation line intensities and the integrated band intensities are reported. The rotationless transition moment of 401 III ←000 is deduced and a vibration-rotation interaction factor F ( m ) = 1+(4.92×10 −4 ) m +(4.4×10 −7 ) m 2 is determined. The values obtained are: S Band (401 III ←000) = (25.54±0.22)×10 −5 cm −2 atm (293 K) −1 , | R 000 401 III | = (1.87±0.02)×10 −4 D, and S Band (411 III ←010) = (1.83±0.13)×10 −5 cm −2 atm (293 K) −1 .
Myasthenia gravis: Dental treatment considerations

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that presents challenges for the dental practitioner. Facial and masticatory muscles may be involved and complicate dental treatment. Exacerbations of the skeletal muscle weakness and fatigability that characterize this disorder can be precipitated by certain medications used in dentistry. A review of 47 dental treatment episodes in 16 patients with myasthenia gravis was undertaken to identify neuromuscular responses to dental treatment and post-dental treatment medical therapy required for control of resultant exacerbations of muscular weakness. Neuromuscular sequelae occurred in 5 treatment episodes for four different patients. Management considerations and drug precautions are discussed.
Reactive scavenging of pollutants by rain: a modeling approach

Abstract An Eulerian model for rain scavenging of pollutants (Kumar, 1985) has been extended to take into account the processes of absorption of multiple pollutant species and chemical reactions within the raindrops. Model simulations have been performed to compare the rates of S(IV) oxidation by O 3 and H 2 O 2 . A comparison of these two oxidation paths indicates that for raindrops, oxidation by O 3 can be the dominating path at pH values near or above 4.7. However, oxidation by H 2 O 2 will dominate at lower pH values. Oxidation of S(IV) catalyzed by Fe(III) and Mn(II) is potentially a very important path but there are many uncertainties regarding the magnitude and the pH dependence of the reaction rates as well as the presence of catalytic synergism between Fe(III) and Mn(II). At lower temperatures, solubilities of SO 2 , O 3 and H 2 O 2 increase while the rate constants for oxidation reactions decrease. Model simulations indicate that, all other conditions remaining the same, [SO 4 −2 ] in raindrops would increase at lower temperatures but [NO 3 − ], which is produced solely as a result of HNO 3 absorption, would not change. The lower [SO 4 −2 ] in winter rains is thus, most likely, a result of the limited availability of oxidants. As a result of model simulations, it was also found that formaldehyde (HCHO) does not bind any appreciable amount of S(IV) in raindrops and that the [SO 4 −2 ] and [S(IV)] in raindrops are not affected by the presence of HCHO in the atmosphere.
Ion Beam Effects on the Formation of Semiconductor Nanoclusters

Silicon rich silica films were deposited by coevaporation of silica and silicon with and without simultaneous ion bombardment. The Si-silica ratios are correlated to changes of index of refraction and shifts in an asymmetric stretching mode IR absorption. Photoluminescence between 550 and 600 nm is observed for all films which is attributed to SiO 2 defects. After annealing this photoluminescence peak shows a shift to 750 nm and an increase in intensity, indicating the formation of silicon nanoclusters. This effect is more pronounced for samples prepared without ion beam treatment. ERD measurements show a correlation of photoluminescence with the presence of hydrogen in the films. The microstructure of these films were investigated by TEM. Photoluminescence from the Si nanoclusters in the films is optimized when the arrival rate of Si/silica is slightly less than 0.4.
The Pathway for Processing Leader-Derived Peptides that Regulate the Maturation and Expression of Qa-1b

Qa-1b and its human homolog, HLA-E, predominantly bind leader peptides derived from other class I molecules. Their presentation is TAP-dependent and proteasome-independent. We demonstrate that Dd targeted to the cytosol does not generate the Qa-1b peptide epitope even in the presence of lactacystin. Cells expressing herpes virus ICP-47 block the generation of this epitope, demonstrating that TAP functions in the transport of the peptide from cytosol to ER. This reveals a pathway for antigen presentation of leader peptides that involves translocation of a protein to the ER where its leader is cleaved followed by its release into the cytosol and transport back into the ER. Further, it ensures that Qa-1b expression mirrors the normal expression of class Ia molecules.
Emergency pediatric chest radiology

Both traumatic and nontraumatic pediatric emergencies relating to the chest may be encountered in the emergency room, but nontraumatic problems probably are more common. This communication deals with the salient points used to identify and diagnose nontraumatic pediatric emergencies on initial radiographic studies.
A mechanism for sediment resuspension by internal solitary waves

A mechanism whereby internal solitary waves can lead to enhanced resuspension in coastal regions is presented. The mechanism involves the creation of a local region of separated flow in the boundary layer under the footprint of a wave. This region is susceptible to a global instability which leads to a coherent dynamics in which gradients in the normal and tangential stresses acting on the bottom surface are increased tenfold. Such increased bottom stresses and the spatio-temporal character of the flow combine to produce conditions favorable for resuspension.
The statistical relationship between weather-type frequencies and corn (maize) yields in southwestern Pennsylvania, USA

Abstract Several synoptic climatological classification techniques are used to relate atmospheric circulation and corn (maize) yields in two regions in southwestern Pennsylvania. The July frequency of occurrence of just one climate type is found to correlate highly with corn yield over a 10-year period. The correlation coefficients obtained through this approach are substantially higher than those obtained through more traditional methods relating yield to temperature and precipitation. While the synoptic climatological approach to yield prediction does not make the biological relationship between climatic factors and corn growth explicit, other features in addition to high correlations recommend it: the model does not require specification of particular climate variables and its emphasis on atmospheric circulation makes the approach more useful for climate change research than those based on simple weather observations without reference to atmospheric dynamics.
Microprocessor-Just Another Circuit Element

A brief analysis of the trends in computer education are given, followed by one philosophy of microcomputer usage in the laboratory. This philosophy is based upon the premise that design techniques for computer-based systems should be integrated throughout electrical engineering curricula, and that microcomputers provide a convenient vehicle for computer experimentation.
Coulomb excitation of vibrational-like states in 166−170Er

Abstract Direct E2 and E3 Coulomb excitation of 2+ and 3− states with 14 MeV 4He ions on isotopically enriched targets of 166Er, 168Er and 170Er has been measured by means of γ-ray spectroscopy. Several 2+ states and 3− octupole vibrational states were identified in each nucleus. The B(Eλ, 0 → J = λ) is obtained for excitation of each state, and information is given on the reduced transition probabilities for the different decay modes of these states. The experimental results are compared with theoretical predictions of nuclear models describing these states.
Concomitant changes in mitochondria and intermediate filaments during heat shock and recovery of chicken embryo fibroblasts

Utilizing video-enhanced differential interference contrast microscopy of chicken embryo fibroblasts, we observed dramatic changes in the localization and morphology of mitochondria shortly after cells were subjected to a mild heat shock. At normal temperatures mitochondria were distributed in the cell cytoplasm as elongated, tubular, and dynamic organelles but upon heat shock they moved to the perinuclear region and formed a tight ring of short swollen and—in some cases—fused vesicles. Vital dye staining of mitochondria with rhodamine 123 and indirect immunofluorescence staining with antibodies against the mitochondrial-matrix protein, HSP 60, confirmed these results. Using cells double labeled with antibodies to vimentin and the HSP 60 protein, we found that the changes in mitochondria were accompanied by perturbations of the intermediate filament network that we and others have reported previously for heat shocked cells. Microtubules remained largely unaltered by our heat shock treatment and the redistribution of intermediate filaments and mitochondria occurred even in the presence of taxol, a microtubule stabilizing drug. The effects of heat shock on mitochondria were reversed when cells were returned to normal temperatures and their recovery to their normal state coincided with return of normal intermediate filament morphology. This recovery was blocked in cells treated with actinomycin D during heat shock, a result indicating that a heat shock protein may be required for recovery. These data are consistent with previously published observations that mitochondria are associated with the intermediate filament network but they extend this interaction to a cell system responding to a physiological stress normally experienced by the intact organism.
In situ transmission electron microscopy study on the epitaxial growth of CoSi2 on Si(111) at temperatures below 150 C

We report an in situ transmission electron microscopy study on the epitaxial growth of CoSi2 on Si(111) from a 10-nm-thick amorphous mixture of Co and Si in the ratio 1:2 which was formed by codeposition of Co and Si near room temperature. Nuclei of CoSi2 are observed in the as-deposited film. These nuclei are epitaxial and extend through the whole film thickness. Upon annealing, these columnar epitaxial CoSi2 grains grow laterally at temperatures as low as 50 °C. The kinetics of this lateral epitaxial growth was studied at temperatures between 50 and 150 °C. The activation energy of the growth process is 0.8±0.1 eV.
Soliton squeezing at the gigahertz rate in a Sagnac loop.

We demonstrate what is to our knowledge the first all-fiber squeezing experiment. A balanced Sagnac loop is used, and a record 6.1±0.2 dB of noise reduction below shot noise has been obtained without stabilization. A gigahertz Er-doped fiber laser and a high-power double-clad Er–Yb amplifier have been developed to suppress guided acoustic-wave Brillouin scattering and to make possible the all-fiber configuration.
Novel properties of ultrathin oxide films: NiO supported on Al2O3

Ultrathin NiO films have been prepared on an Al2O3(0001) surface, supported on a Mo(110) or Re(0001) substrate. The electronic and chemical properties of these NiO films have been studied using electron energy loss spectroscopy (ELS), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), and infrared reflection adsorption spectroscopy (IRAS). TPD and IRAS of adsorbed CO show that the chemical properties of the thin ( 10 monolayers) NiO films. The electronic structure, however, for NiO films with thicknesses between 0.5 and 28 ML are indistinguishable by ELS. Heating monolayer NiO on Al2O3 to 800 K in vacuum leads to a substantial reduction of NiO to metallic Ni.