cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic analysis of future climate scenarios applied to urban flooding in the Chicago metropolitan area

Past heavy precipitation events in the Chicago metropolitan area have caused significant flood-related economic and environmental damages. A key component in flood management policies and actions is determining flood magnitudes for specified return periods. This is a particularly difficult task in areas with a complex and changing climate and land-use, such as the Chicago metropolitan area. The standard design storm methodology based on the NOAA Atlas 14 and ISWS Bulletin 70 has been used in the past to estimate flood hydrographs with variable return periods in this region. In a changing climate, however, these publications may not be accurate. This study presents and illustrates a methodology for diagnostic analysis of future climate scenarios in the framework of urban flooding, and assesses the corresponding uncertainties. First, the design storms are calculated using data downscaled by a regional climate model (RCM) at 30-km spacing for the present and 2050s under the IPCC A1Fi (high) and B1 (low) emissions scenarios. Next, the corresponding flood discharges at six watersheds in suburban Chicago are estimated using a hydrologic event model. The resulting scenarios in flood frequency were first assessed through a set of diagnostic tests for precipitation timing and frequency. The study did not reveal any significant changes in the 2050s in the average timing of heavy storms, but their regularity decreased. The average timing did not exhibit any significant spatial variability throughout the region. The precipitation frequency analysis revealed distinct differences between the northern and southeastern subregions of the Chicago metropolitan area. The quantiles in the northern subregion averaged for 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year return periods exhibited a 20% and 16% increase in daily precipitation for scenarios B1 and A1Fi, respectively. The southeastern subregion, however, exhibited a decrease of 12% for scenario B1 and a minor increase of 3% for scenario A1Fi. The hydrologic effects of changing precipitation on the flood quantiles were illustrated using six small watersheds in the region. The relative increases or decreases in precipitation translated into even larger relative increases or decreases in flood peaks, due to the nonlinear nature of the rainfall-runoff process. Simulations using multiple climate models, for longer periods, finer spatio-temporal resolution, and larger areal coverage could be used to more accurately account for numerous uncertainties in the precipitation and flood projections.
Human Auditory-Evoked Response: Specific Effects of Signal Strength and Performance Criterion.

Computer-averaged auditory-evoked responses were recorded from the scalp of seven human Sa in order to study the effects of both low-signal levels and different performance criteria upon specific components of the waveform. Noise bursts of −2, 0. +2. or +6 dB seDl8tion level (SL) were presented contingent upon the S’s correct bisection of a temporal interval as the degree of accuracy required from him was systematically varied. Analyses of variance indicated that a positive peak in the waveform at a latency of approximately 300 msec increased in amplitude as the stringency of the performance criterion increased but showed no change as signal strength varied. The negative peak at approximately 125 msec latency increased with increasing signal strength but remained constant as the stringency of the performance criterion was varied.
Prospective evidence for a reciprocal relationship between sense of control and depressive symptoms following a flood

The purpose of this research is to test a feedback loop between sense of control and depressive symptoms within the context of a flood. Prospective cohort data were gathered from 1735 individuals that assessed the respondent's state prior to experiencing a flood. Path analysis is used to test for a reciprocal association between change in sense of control and change in depressive symptoms. The flood was indirectly associated with sense of control through depressive symptoms. Sense of control was negatively associated with change in depressive symptoms, and depressive symptoms were negatively associated with change in sense of control. Experiencing a flood is associated with more depressive symptoms, which in turn may undermine the sense of control over one's life. Likewise, lower sense of control associated with a flood is related to higher depressive symptoms. A reciprocal model not only implies that sense of control and depressive symptoms may mutually affect one another, but also that stressors may indirectly affect sense of control through depressive symptoms, which could lead individuals to be more vulnerable to future stress. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bethanechol-induced water intake in rats: possible mechanisms of induction.

Acute administration of the parasympathomimetic agent, bethanechol, at 2, 4, 8 and 12 mg/kg body wt, IP, induced drinking and increased urine output of rats in a dose-dependent fashion. The first significant increases in both water intake and urine output above that of controls occurred when 4 mg/kg was administered. The drinking and increased urine output in response to administration of 8 mg bethanechol/kg was inhibited by atropine sulfate (3 and 6 mg/kg, IP). In addition, the 0-adrenergic antagonist, propranolol (6 mg/kg, IP, administered 30 min prior to treatment with bethanechol), inhibited bethanechol (8 mg/kg, IP)-induced drinking. Urine output, however, was unaffected by propranolol. Further, the angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitor, captopril, inhibited significantly the drinking response, but not the increased urine output, accompanying administration of bethanechol (8 mg/kg). The effect of bethanechol and the beta-adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol (25 Ag/kg) separately and in combination, on water intake was also studied. Both compounds increased water intake but they exerted no interactive effect when administered simultaneously. Administration of bethanechol (8 mg/kg) to conscious rats was also accompanied by a significant reduction in both mean blood pressure and heart rate that reached minimal levels within 10 min after treatment. Both responses had returned to control level by one hour after treatment. These results suggest that bethanechol induces drinking in rats by way of the renin-angiotensin system.
An active-passive piezoelectric absorber for structural vibration control under harmonic excitations with time-varying frequency, Part 2: Experimental validation and parametric study

In Part 1 of the paper, a new high-performance active-passive hybrid piezoelectric absorber concept was presented. This design is an attractive alternative to semi-active absorbers for the purpose of suppressing harmonic excitations with variable frequency. In this paper (Part 2), the effectiveness of the new absorber design is first demonstrated through experimental investigations. Parametric studies are then carried out to illustrate how the performance of the new design is affected by the design parameters and excitation characteristics. In these studies, two state-of-the-art control methods are used as baselines for comparison with the new absorber design, and it is shown that the proposed design offers superior performance and efficiency compared to these methods.
Incision and loop drainage: a minimally invasive technique for subcutaneous abscess management in children

Abstract Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes after a minimally invasive approach to pediatric subcutaneous abscess management as a replacement for wide exposure, debridement, and repetitive packing. Methods A retrospective study was performed of all children who underwent incision and loop drainage for subcutaneous abscesses between January 2002 and October 2007 at our institution. Technique Two mini incisions, 4-5 mm each, were made on the abscess, as far apart as possible. Abscess was probed, and pus was drained. Abscess was irrigated with normal saline; a loop drain was passed through one incision, brought out through the other, and tied to itself. An absorbent dressing was applied over the loop and changed regularly. Results One hundred fifteen patients underwent drainage procedures as described; 5 patients had multiple abscesses. Mean values (range) are as follows: age, 4.25 years (19 days to 20.5 years); duration of symptoms, 7.8 days (1-42 days); length of hospital stay, 3 days (1-39 days); duration of procedure, 10.8 minutes (4-43 minutes); drain duration, 10.4 days (3-24 days); and number of postoperative visits, 1.8 (1-17). Bacterial culture data were available for 101 patients. Of these, 50% had methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus , 26% had methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus , and 9% streptococcal species. Of the 115 patients, 5 had pilonidal abscesses, 1 required reoperation for persistent drainage, and 1 had a planned staged excision. Of the remaining 110 patients, 6 (5.5%) required reoperation—4 with loop drains and 2 with incision and packing with complete healing. Conclusion The use of loop drains proved safe and effective in the treatment of subcutaneous abscesses in children. Eliminating the need for repetitive and cumbersome wound packing simplifies postoperative wound care. Furthermore, there is an expected cost savings with this technique given the decreased need for wound care materials and professional postoperative home health services. We recommend this minimally invasive technique as the treatment of choice for subcutaneous abscesses in children and consider it the standard of care in our facility.
Punctuated Evolution Induced by Ecological Change

Despite the realization that common evolutionary patterns involve rapid morphological change, theoretical discussions of the ecological conditions necessary for such transitions are rare. An understanding of such conditions must be central to a reconciliation of the theories requiring novel mechanisms for punctuated evolution with theories based on population genetics. I develop an ecological context for evolutionary change of morphological characters important in resource use. The complexity observed in natural situations is reflected by a bimodal resource distribution. Intraspecific competition can produce rapid evolutionary change under these conditions. Furthermore, ecological situations that induce transitions can result from the species' foraging activities as well as from fluctuations in the environmental conditions. Thus, common ecological conditions coupled with well-known evolutionary processes can produce patterns observed in the paleontological record.
Strength-duration properties of single units driven by electrical stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus in rats

Cathodal strength-duration functions were measured for 27 single units which were driven by electrical stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus. The distribution of chronaxies of these units showed four clusters at about 0.1, 0.25, 0.4 and 0.5 msec. These chronaxies are not fundamentally different from those previously reported for peripheral nerve. Two units fired repetitively during a long-duration stimulation pulse. Anodal strengitation. The data are discussed with reference to behaviorally determith duration properties were obtained from 14 units. Four units were not excited by anodal pulses of any strength or duration, four were excited during an anodal pulse (anode-make excitation) but not at the termination of the pulse (anode-break excitation), and six showed both anode-make and anode-break excitation. The data are discussed with reference to behaviorally determined strength-duration functions for brain stimulation reward.
EPR studies of heterocyclic boron compounds

EPR STUDIES OF HETEROCYCLIC BORON COMPOUNDS G. R. Eaton* Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge~l Massachusetts 02139 (Received ~ A ~ i l 1972) In spite of their potential utility in elucidating electronic properties, epr measurements involving boron-containing radicals have been limited to triaryl boron anion radicals (i), bipyridine (2), and pyridine (3) stabilized boron radicals, and boron hydride anion radicals (4). The latter are the only radicals for which clear evidence for interaction of more than one boron with the electron spin was reported. In liB NMR studies the liB chemical shift is indicative of the number and type of groups bound to the boron atom (5). It is of interest to determine whether the coupling of boron to the odd electron in radical species is as useful a probe of the electronic environment of the boron atom. If so, the range of studies possible in this area will be greatly expanded. This paper reports an epr study of a heterocyclic boron radical which is a member of a series of considerable potential generality. Preparation of Compounds. The 2,5-dihydroxy-p-benzoquinone ester of diphenylborinic acid (I) was made by published methods (6).
SU-E-T-347: Validation of the Condensed History Algorithm of Geant4 Using the Fano Test

Purpose: To validate the condensed history algorithm and physics of the Geant4 Monte Carlo toolkit for simulations of ionization chambers (ICs). This study is the first step to validate Geant4 for calculations of photon beam quality correction factors under the presence of a strong magnetic field for magnetic resonance guided linac system applications. Methods: The electron transport and boundary crossing algorithms of Geant4 version 9.6.p02 were tested under Fano conditions using the Geant4 example/application FanoCavity. User-defined parameters of the condensed history and multiple scattering algorithms were investigated under Fano test conditions for three scattering models (physics lists): G4UrbanMscModel95 (PhysListEmStandard_option3), G4GoudsmitSaundersonMsc (PhysListEmStandard_GS), and G4WentzelVIModel/G4CoulombScattering (PhysListEmStandard_WVI). Simulations were conducted using monoenergetic photon beams, ranging from 0.5 to 7 MeV and emphasizing energies from 0.8 to 3 MeV. Results: The GS and WVI physics lists provided consistent Fano test results (within ±0.5%) for maximum step sizes under 0.01 mm at 1.25 MeV, with improved performance at 3 MeV (within ±0.25%). The option3 physics list provided consistent Fano test results (within ±0.5%) for maximum step sizes above 1 mm. Optimal parameters for the option3 physics list were 10 km maximum step size with default values for other user-defined parameters: 0.2 dRoverRange, 0.01 mm final range, 0.04 range factor, 2.5 geometrical factor, and 1 skin. Simulations using the option3 physics list were ∼70 – 100 times faster compared to GS and WVI under optimal parameters. Conclusion: This work indicated that the option3 physics list passes the Fano test within ±0.5% when using a maximum step size of 10 km for energies suitable for IC calculations in a 6 MV spectrum without extensive computational times. Optimal user-defined parameters using the option3 physics list will be used in future IC simulations to calculate beam quality correction factors under the presence of a magnetic field. Elekta-MD Anderson Research Agreement
Evolutionary implications of developmental instability in parthenogenetic drosophila mercatorum. I. Comparison of several strains with different genotypes.

SUMMARY Natural populations of sexually reproducing Drosophila mercatorum are capable of a very low rate of parthenogenesis, but this mode of reproduction has apparently never characterized an entirely asexual population in this species. The high abortion rate observed in laboratory parthenogenetic lines suggests that developmental constraints may cause the failure of this trait to spread in nature. To investigate the basis of this developmental instability and how it may affect the evolution of parthenogenesis in natural populations, early embryonic development was compared between one sexual and four parthenogenetic laboratory strains of D. mercatorum. There is a large amount of variation within a given parthenogenetic strain, suggesting that parthenogenesis is associated with a general breakdown of developmental stability. There is relatively little variation among different parthenogenetic strains, suggesting that most abortions are due to a feature inherent to parthenogenetic reproduction rather than a feature of a particular genome. Likewise, there is little variation between parthenogenetic and sexual strains in the causes of abortions, suggesting that the developmental problems encountered by parthenogenetic lineages are not unique to parthenogens. Thus, the failure of parthenogenesis to spread within D. mercatorum can be attributed to no particular developmental constraint per se operating after the initiation of embryogenesis. However, the overall increase in all developmental problems that occurs with the transition from sexual to parthenogenetic development suggests that the high degree of developmental instability associated with parthenogenesis may be considered a developmental constraint in its own right.
Simultaneous determination of lactose and glucose in milk using two working enzyme electrodes

Abstract Lactose and glucose concentrations were determined simultaneously by using a measuring-cell containing lactose and glucose electrodes made by mixing β-galactosidase/glucose oxidase and glucose oxidase, respectively, with carbon paste. The glucose electrode responds to glucose alone, while the lactose electrode measures the sum of glucose and lactose. Lactose concentration was calculated by subtracting the glucose concentration from the reading of the lactose electrode. The present dual-working electrode system permitted the determination of lactose and glucose concentrations simultaneously from a single measurement over a linear range of 0.1–2.5 mM. Furthermore, it enabled the determination of lactose concentration in milk in the presence of glucose to be carried out more precisely and with a higher degree of sensitivity than the conventional calorimetric method.
Calcium carbonate measurements in the surface global ocean based on Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer data

[1] We describe a two-band algorithm for the remote quantification of the ocean's suspended calcium carbonate (also known as particulate inorganic carbon (PIC)), based on normalized water-leaving radiance at 440 and 550 nm. We tested this algorithm using ship-derived and satellite-derived results from a variety of marine environments. From this validation work we calculated the overall accuracy of the satellite-based PIC estimates, assuming different timescales and space scales for binning. After performing the validation work we applied the two-band algorithm to water-leaving radiance data from 2002, sampled by Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)/Terra (a 36-band satellite spectrometer designed to observe land, ocean, and atmosphere), and we derived seasonal, global maps of the standing stock of pelagic PIC as well as particulate organic carbon (POC). These data, along with limited observations on the turnover time of calcium carbonate coccoliths in the euphotic zone, provide some new insights into global rates of pelagic calcite production.
Meteor induced ridge and trough formation and the structuring of the nighttime E-region ionosphere

[1] When meteor-generated plasma trails diffuse into the ionosphere they create large ambipolar electric fields mainly perpendicular to the Earth's geomagnetic field (B) and extending many kilometers from the trail along B. These fields will cause ionospheric plasma to collect into ridges extending from the trail along B, enhancing the density by as much as a factor of 2, and they will also remove up to 90% of the plasma on each side of the ridge. We predict that meteor-induced density perturbations may fill as much as 20% of the ionosphere between 95 and 120 km altitude. This paper presents simulations and theory to show how meteors produce plasma ridges and troughs. We estimate the extent of these as a function of altitude and meteor density. This process may explain observations of extensive nighttime E-region density structures made by rockets and radars.
Time effects in earnings of faculty members

Abstract Empirical analyses of salary discrimination among university faculty members typically use data from a single cross-section. However, if earnings profiles exhibit instability over time, comparison of individuals from a cross-section will not reflect actual life-cycle earnings differences. In this paper we compare relative earnings by sex estimated from cross-section and longitudinal data samples. The results indicate substantial differences in estimated male-female salary ratios.
Use of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor to reverse anergy in otherwise immunologically healthy children

Background T-cell anergy, as measured by delayed hypersensitivity skin testing, is associated with increased susceptibility to infection. Because the repertoire of effects of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) includes enhancement of antigen processing and presentation by antigen-presenting cells, GM-CSF has been used to augment immune function in human immunodeficiency virus–induced and other viral illness–induced immune dysfunction and to affect positively immune function in a wide variety of disorders. Objective To attempt reversal of T-cell anergy using GM-CSF in 3 otherwise immunologically healthy children with severe recurrent and persistent viral respiratory tract infections and in one child with recurrent bacterial sepsis. Methods After written informed consent and baseline data were obtained, the study participants were administered 3 two-week cycles of GM-CSF. Delayed hypersensitivity skin testing and laboratory tests were repeated 2 weeks after the third cycle and subsequently as clinically indicated. Results All 4 children developed delayed hypersensitivity by skin testing, and all demonstrated markedly decreased number and severity of infection. Improvement persisted in all patients for at least 1 year. A single cycle of additional treatment in 2 patients reestablished delayed hypersensitivity and decreased infection, both of which persisted throughout the follow-up period of 4 or more years. Conclusions GM-CSF treatment reversed T-cell anergy in 4 children. Reestablishment of delayed hypersensitivity was associated with a significant decrease in infection. Although further studies will be needed, use of GM-CSF should be considered as an immune modulator in patients with T-cell anergy and recurrent infections.
Strategies of obligate intracellular parasites for evading host defences

During the course of establishing infection in a susceptible host, obligate intracellular parasites evade host defence mechanisms before, during and after entry into host cells. Before entry they circumvent the lytic activity of the complement cascade, during cell entry they avoid being killed by toxic oxygen metabolites and after entry they escape nonoxidative killing mechanisms such as degradation by lysosomal hydrolases. Different intracellular parasites, exemplified here by Leishmania spp, Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii, undermine host defences at each step by various strategies that ultimately ensure their targeting to, and survival in, an appropriate intracellular compartment.
Transition operators in electromagnetic-wave diffraction theory. II - Applications to optics

The theory developed by Hahne (1992) for the diffraction of time-harmonic electromagnetic waves from fixed obstacles is briefly summarized and extended. Applications of the theory are considered which comprise, first, a spherical harmonic expansion of the so-called radiation impedance operator in the theory, for a spherical surface, and second, a reconsideration of familiar short-wavelength approximation from the new standpoint, including a derivation of the so-called physical optics method on the basis of quasi-planar approximation to the radiation impedance operator, augmented by the method of stationary phase. The latter includes a rederivation of the geometrical optics approximation for the complete Green's function for the electromagnetic field in the presence of a smooth- and a convex-surfaced perfectly electrically conductive obstacle.
Power Systems for Auxiliary Drives in Steam-Electric Stations

ASTEAM-ELECTRIC power station in general consists not only of such major items as boiler equipment, steam-turbine-generator units and condensers, but also of many auxiliaries. These auxiliaries now have come to be almost exclusively a-c-motor-driven, although steam-driven auxiliaries are used occasionally in some topping installations where their use improves the heat cycle and in other cases for stand-by service. Since the reliability of a station can be no better than the reliability of its auxiliaries, the power-supply system for these auxiliaries, as well as the associated motors and control, become important items in the design of a steam-electric-power station.
Major Facility Overhauls at LAMPF

The Clinton P. Anderson Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) is a linear proton accelerator designed to operate at 800 MeV and 1.0 mA. It has been operating at power levels above 200 microamperes since February of 1976 and now routinely operates near the design level. This paper outlines the problems encountered with the original target cell components, the repairs required since 1976, and specifically details the steps involved in the complete replacement of the vital target cell components. These components include target boxes, collimators, main beam line magnets, and the front-end magnets of the secondary beam lines. The A-2 target cell was replaced in the spring of 1983 and the A-1 target cell was replaced in the spring of 1984. Both have operated satisfactorily since their completion, with only minor difficulties. The overhaul and total component replacement in the beam stop area (A-6) was completed in early May 1985 and has just been placed in operation. The upgrade, in addition to the replacement of the beam stop and the vacuum-to-air window with state-of-the-art designs, provides a greatly increased capability of both proton and neutron irradiation of materials.
Nucleate boiling on two cylinders in line contact

Abstract Nucleate boiling from the restricted geometry between two cylinders in line contact is studied. The pool boiling experiment is conducted using water and two small-diameter tubes brought together through either twisting or tying. It is found that nucleate boiling is significantly enhanced in the restricted regions between the two tubes, particularly in those regions with openings facing upward. This enhancement is due to a favorable thermal environment in terms of the liquid temperature profile inside the restricted geometry. This phenomenon is explained based on the well accepted nucleate boiling theory. The difference among data of different tube orientations is also discussed.
Design and Analysis of a Double Superimposed Chamber MEMS Micropump

The mathematical model of a double chamber pump is obtained by dividing the problem in two separate ones. The first that considers inertia force and viscous loss in relation of actuation pressure and frequency is obtained, and then a model of the nozzle/diffuser elements is introduced. The value of the flow rate obtained from the first model is then introduced in the second to determine the loss coefficients starting from geometrical properties and flow velocity. Then the loss coefficients obtained are used in the first model to obtain a new value of flow rate. These two models have been implemented in a Matlab® code that numerically reaches convergence repeating the cycle above. Using this model is possible to predict performances of the micropump only from geometrical properties and actuation parameters, without assumptions about the loss coefficients. A similar model is obtained for a single-chamber pump with geometrical dimensions equal to each chamber of the double chamber pump, and the results from both the models are then compared for equal applied actuation pressure and frequency. Results gives for our pump a max flow working frequency that is about 30% lower than the single chamber design, with the same applied pressure on the membrane, same geometry of parts and materials, and a max flow rate that is about 140% of the single chamber max flow in max flow conditions. For lower frequencies flow rate is more than twice, and maximum membrane deflection smaller up to 20% less. These results can change due to geometrical and material properties. Finally the influences of every significant geometrical property on flow rate, maximum flow frequency, loss coefficients and membrane strain are examined, and the nozzle/diffuser initial width and chamber side length are founded to be the most important dimension.© 2005 ASME
Transport Rates of the Helium II Film Over Various Surfaces

Liquid helium II film transport over various surfaces has been studied by a new method in which a cylindrical capacitor using liquid helium as the dielectric is employed as a depth gauge. Changes in liquid level resulting from film transport produce changes in capacitance which in turn cause frequency changes in a high frequency circuit. The details of this method are described. The film transport rates, measured to 1.25\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, were found to depend on the substrate; at 1.25\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, the highest rate observed was 51\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$/cm sec for etched copper and the lowest, 7.5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$/cm sec for glass. The rates were also measured over iron in the magnetized and unmagnetized state and over a superconductor in the superconducting and in the normal state. No differences were noted. In the latter case the thermal conductivity of the container is abruptly changed and the absence of an effect supports the view that heat transfer plays no significant role in determining the transport rate.
Memory impairment exhibited by veterans with Gulf War Illness

Roughly 26–32% of US veterans, who served in the first Gulf War, report suffering from chronic health problems (Golomb, 2008, Proceedings of the National Academies of Science, 105, 4295). The present study investigated the memory deficits reported by these ill Gulf War veterans (GWV) using a face–name associative memory paradigm administered during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The fMRI data confirmed memory performance on the memory task to be related to the amount of activation in the left hippocampus observed during the study. In addition, ill-GWV demonstrated decreased memory performance relative to unaffected GWV on this memory test, providing evidence of memory deficits using an objective measure of memory.
Temporal changes of aortic neck morphology in abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Objectives This study characterized temporal changes in the infrarenal aortic aneurysm neck in patients with small, untreated abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Methods Patients with infrarenal AAA who had contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans separated by >6 months were identified and their images reviewed. Infrarenal neck diameter and length were measured along with aneurysm diameter. Comparisons between the interval CT scans were made and analysis of factors affecting neck changes performed. Results Sixty patients met inclusion criteria with an imaging interval of 3.8 years (median, 3.4 years; range, 0.75-9.6 years). During the interval, there was an increase in proximal and distal neck diameters of 1.1 mm (SD, 2.2) (0.28 mm/y) and 1.0 mm (SD, 3.0) (0.26 mm/y), respectively. During the same interval, the neck length decreased by 4 mm (SD, 11) (1 mm/y). A neck length of P = .001). Conclusion The natural history of the aneurysm neck is one of expansion and shortening that will not affect most patients under surveillance. Patients with marginal neck lengths (range, 15-20 mm) at the initial imaging are more likely to experience loss of neck length that may negatively affect endovascular suitability.
Localization of Murine Macrophage Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase to Mouse Chromosome 11

There are at least three distinct nitric oxide (NO) synthase genes. Brain and endothelial NO synthases are constitutively synthesized, while NO synthase is inducible by cytokines in macrophages. We have utilized a backcross of (C57BL/6J x Mus spretus) x C57BL/6J to map the inducible NO synthase (Nos2). We report the chromosomal mapping of Nos2 to mouse chromosome 11, 3.3 cM proximal to Scya2. 10 refs., 1 tab.
Acquisitions and collection development: Cooperation in a changing environment

A la fin de 1986, une analyse de l'etat des prix des publications en serie a ete menee par l'Universite du Michigan en collaboration avec plusieurs agences de courtage. Les resultats indiquent que seule une faible proportion des titres represente la somme consacree a l'acquisition des periodiques
The Virginia partnership for nanotechnology education and workforce development

The University of Virginia (UVA) has partnered with universities in Virginia for the sharing of graduate nanotechnology courses by distance learning technology. With the other schools, UVA has developed a four semester sequence of shared courses. The program provides students at the schools and at companies with access to a broader set of nanotechnology course offerings than previously available. The program shares several types of courses. Some courses were previously available only to students at one institution because the only faculty expert was resident there. Some courses were previously common at all institutions but consuming significant faculty resources, with faculty teaching just a few students at their institution. Now, new courses are being developed, team-taught courses are being offered, and fully on-line courses are becoming available. While opening educational opportunities, this program has challenged the participants. Faculty are being asked to alternate teaching assignments with colleagues at other institutions. Departments are being asked to accept instruction from faculty at neighboring institutions. On-campus students are being asked to take classes offered over the commodity Internet. Working engineers are grappling with the challenge of taking graduate courses while working full time jobs. These challenges and some proposed solutions will be discussed.
Retrograde trans-posterior communicating artery snare-assisted rescue of lost access to a foreshortened pipeline embolization device: complication management

Background and importance The Pipeline embolization device (PED; Covidien Vascular Therapies, Mansfield, Massachusetts) is a promising, yet experimental, vascular reconstruction device for the treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms. We present a PED-related complication and describe a salvage strategy. Clinical presentation A 64-year-old woman underwent PED-assisted parent vessel reconstruction for her giant cavernous internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm. During placement of the first PED, the proximal part of the PED foreshortened and was displaced into the aneurysm sac. Multiple subsequent attempts to recatheterize the PED failed, and, ultimately, distal access through and beyond the PED was lost. Therefore, completion of the Pipeline construct by stacking PEDs for definitive treatment was prevented. Retrograde access of the PED was gained from the distal ICA through a microwire that was advanced from the basilar artery through the posterior communicating artery. The microwire from the distal ICA was grasped with a snare from the proximal ICA and pulled down to the cervical ICA. The opened snare around the microwire was used as a lasso to advance a microcatheter from the cervical ICA through the PED to regain distal access. Five more PEDs were used to achieve complete parent vessel reconstruction and aneurysm obliteration. Conclusion Maintaining distal access is critical until the entire parent vessel is reconstructed, especially when multiple PEDs are required. The salvage technique described may help regain distal access if it is lost during the procedure.
Enantioselective chemisorption on a chirally modified surface in ultrahigh vacuum: adsorption of propylene oxide on 2-butoxide-covered palladium(111).

The enantioselective chemisorption of (S)- and (R)-propylene oxide is measured on a Pd(111) surface chirally modified using (S)- and (R)-2-butanol. Reflection−absorption infrared spectroscopic (RAI...
Phenylethyl isothiocyanate induces apoptotic signaling via suppressing phosphatase activity against c-Jun N-terminal kinase

Dietary isothiocyanates induce apoptosis in various cancer cell lines through a c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)-dependent mechanism. We found that phenylethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) was capable of inducing JNK activation and apoptosis in prostate cancer cell lines with distinct p53 statuses. PEITC induced JNK-mediated apoptotic signaling via a different pathway than that used by DNA-damaging agents, because genotoxicresistant LNCaP prostate cancer cells were equally sensitive to PEITC as parental LNCaP cells. PEITC did not induce significant MKK4 or MKK7 activation and did not activate JNK directly, suggesting that JNK and JNK upstream kinases are not primary targets of PEITC. The JNK dephosphorylation and inactivation rates were decreased in cells exposed to PEITC. Expression levels of M3/6, a JNK-specific phosphatase, were down-regulated by PEITC via a proteasome-dependent mechanism. Taken together, our data suggest that PEITC activates JNK through suppression of JNK dephosphorylation and that PEITC may be an alternative therapeutic agent for cancers that are resistant to genotoxic agents. This study also reveals that JNK phosphatases are potential targets for the development of novel cancer therapeutic agents.
Seasonal variation in the statistics of photosynthetically active radiation penetration in an oak-hickory forest

Abstract The seasonal variability in the frequency distribution (FD) and higher order moments (e.g., standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis) of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) penetration in an oak—hickory forest were examined. In a leafless, wintertime forest the FD is unimodal and skewed. In a leafing forest, the FD is highly variable and is strongly skewed. This results from higher solar elevation angles enhancing PAR penetration and new, expanding leaves causing penumbral shade and scattering the incoming radiation. The FD of PAR in the fully-leafed canopy is unimodal in the upper canopy, bimodal below crown closure and unimodal in the subcanopy trunkspace. Low solar elevation angles and leaf senescence cause the FD of PAR in the autumnal canopy to be uniformly distributed, as is indicated by its low kurtosis. FDs of PAR also provide a means of estimating sunlit leaf area. Estimated values of sunlit leaf area below crown closure agree within 15% with theoretical estimates derived with a negative binomial distribution.
Orientation discrimination sensitivity of single units in cat primary visual cortex.

Responses of visual cortex (area 17) neurons to moving oriented stimuli were recorded from anesthetized cats. The variance of response (SD2) to repeated identical stimuli was directly proportional to response magnitude (R), (SD2 =C2R). The values of C were not found to differ significantly between different types of cortical cells. The relationship predicts that the coefficient of variation (SD/R) will be smallest near the peak of the tuning curve, indicating that the peak response is most reliable for detecting an orientation but not necessarily the most sensitive to a change in orientation. Tuning curves and response variability were then examined to determine the orientation at which the neuron was most sensitive to changes in stimulus orientation using signal detection theory. The discrimination index (d′ = [R1-R2J/SD) for a 1 degree change in stimulus orientation was greatest along the flanks of the tuning curve. In order to generalize the experimental data, response distributions derived from a model of cells with parameters based on experimental data were examined to determine the minimal discriminable change in stimulus orientation. Changes of stimulus orientation between 0.6 and 5 deg of arc could be detected from single responses of a single cell by an optimal observer with 75% accuracy if the orientation change was centered at the most sensitive part of the tuning curve.
The Fate of Type II Odontoid Fractures after Posterior Atlantoaxial Fusion: Where Does Healing Occur?

Background Anderson and D'Alonzo type II odontoid fractures often require surgical intervention. Our goal was to understand the pattern of healing in patients who had a posterior atlantoaxial fusion for a type II odontoid fracture. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of patients who underwent posterior atlantoaxial instrumentation and fusion for a type II odontoid fracture at our institution between 1987 and 2011. Patients who had fusion evaluation by computed tomography (CT) scan ≥3 months after surgery were included. Surgical technique included placement of a posterior bone graft with transarticular screws, C1 lateral mass and C2 pars/pedicle screw construct, or a combination of screw fixation techniques. Postoperative CT scans were reviewed to determine the site where fusion occurred. Results Sixty-four patients underwent posterior atlantoaxial instrumentation and fusion for type II odontoid fractures, 12 of whom had fusion evaluation by CT scan. A total of 11 of 12 patients had fusion across the fracture site, 2 across the C1–C2 joint, and 11 at the posterior graft site. All 12 patients had at least one site of fusion. Conclusions There is a high rate of fusion across the fracture site of a type II odontoid fracture after posterior atlantoaxial fixation. In young patients with acute type II fractures who are not candidates for anterior screw fixation, posterior atlantoaxial instrumentation without fusion may be sufficient for fracture healing, thus allowing for the possibility of implant removal and preservation of C1–C2 motion.
IVA_5M numerical method for analysis of three-fluid multi-component flows in boundary-fitted multi-blocks

This paper presents a numerical solution method for multi-phase flow analysis based on local volume and time averaged conservation equations. The emphasis of this development was to create a computer code architecture that absorb all the constitutive physics and functionality from the past 25 years development of the three fluid multi-component IVA-entropy concept for multi-phase flows into a boundary fitted orthogonal coordinate framework. Collocated discretization for the momentum equations is used followed by weighted averaging for the staggered grids resulting in analytical expressions for the normal velocities. Using the entropy concept analytical reduction to a pressure-velocity coupling is found. The performance of the method is demonstrated by comparison of two cases for which experimental results and numerical solution with the previous method are available. The agreement demonstrates the success of this development.
2006 Special Issue: Analyzing and shaping human attentional networks

In this paper we outline a conception of attentional networks arising from imaging studies as connections between activated brain areas carrying out localized mental operations. We consider both the areas of functional activation (nodes) and the structural (DTI) and functional connections (DCM) between them in real time (EEG, frequency analysis) as important tools in analyzing the network. The efficiency of network function involves the time course of activation of nodes and their connectivity to other areas of the network. We outline landmarks in the development of brain networks underlying executive attention from infancy and childhood. We use individual differences in network efficiency to examine genetic alleles that are related to performance. We consider how animal studies might be used to determine the genes that influence network development. Finally we indicate how training may aid in enhancing attentional networks. Our goal is to show the wide range of methods that can be used to suggest and analyze models of network function in the study of attention.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of Alternative Stress Management Interventions in Persons with HIV Infection.

Research in psychoneuroimmunology suggests that immunosuppression associated with perceived stress may contribute to disease progression in persons with HIV infection. While stress management interventions may enhance immune function, few alternative approaches have yet been tested. This randomized clinical trial was conducted to test effects of three 10-week stress management approaches--cognitive-behavioral relaxation training (RLXN), focused tai chi training (TCHI), and spiritual growth groups (SPRT)--in comparison to a wait-listed control group (CTRL) among 252 individuals with HIV infection. Using repeated measures mixed modeling, the authors found that in comparison to the CTRL group, (a) both the RLXN and TCHI groups used less emotion-focused coping, and (b) all treatment groups had augmented lymphocyte proliferative function. Despite modest effects of the interventions on psychosocial functioning, robust findings of improved immune function have important clinical implications, particularly for persons with immune-mediated illnesses.
Valuing interdependent multi-stage IT investments: A real options approach

In this paper, we use the market asset disclaimer assumption and develop a binomial lattice based real options model to include cash flow interdependencies between multi-stage information technology (IT) investments. Using a simple two-stage IT investment problem with interdependent cash flows, we apply the binomial lattice based real options model to obtain combined valuation of the two-stage IT investment. In addition to investment valuation, our experience with the two-stage IT investment valuation suggests that the binomial lattice based real options model provides a powerful decision aid tool for appropriate timing, delaying and abandoning of the second-stage IT investment.
Considerations in the long-term management of asthma in ambulatory patients.

Purpose. The goals of treatment and drug therapies used for long-term asthma control, classification of the disease by severity, and treatment based on severity are reviewed, with an emphasis on recent controversies in treatment approach and safety concerns. Summary. Patient education and written asthma self-management and action plans are essential components of asthma treatment because of the need for patients to acquire substantial knowledge and skills in self-care. Inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective long-term-control therapy and usually suffice as monotherapy for mild persistent asthma. Adding a long-acting, inhaled β2 agonist to the inhaled corticosteroid is preferred for moderate and severe persistent disease despite safety concerns. Omalizumab use is limited to selected patients with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma and an inadequate response to inhaled corticosteroids. Conclusion. The long-term control of asthma requires substantial patient knowledge and skill. Persistent disease is best managed by inhaled corticosteroids and if it is moderate or severe, long-acting, inhaled β2 agonists in combination with inhaled corticosteroids.
Norgold Russet, a new, early maturing potato variety with good type and scab resistance

Norgold Russet is an early maturing, oblong to long, russet-skinned variety with a high degree of resistance to common scab. Field trials have shown that Norgold Russet is highly adapted to the midwest and several other potato producing areas in the United States and Canada. Yield trials in the midwest have shown Norgold Russet to compare favorably with Irish Cobbler in yield but superior to Early Gem and Russet Burbank. When tested in North Dakota, dry matter of Norgold Russet as determined by specific gravity will average approximately 21.0%. Norgold Russet is a good baking and boiling potato, producing a cooked product that is exceptionally white and mealy.