cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An ab initio fragment orbital theory (AFOT) for molecules: Application to some platinum poly-ynes

Abstract The AFOT formalism, which treats a molecule fragment by fragment, has hitherto been restricted to primarily π-electron systems. The method has been successfully applied to calculate the energetics and two-photon absorption properties of several organic molecules. The present work extends the formalism to include organometallic compounds, allowing non-π like valence framework. The extension also allows the use of effective core potentials (ECP). We apply the present modified AFOT formalism to calculate the low-lying excited states of a series of platinum poly-yne oligomers. Comparison with experiment indicates the suitability of the model for such compounds.
Thermal Conductance of Individual Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes

This work presents an experimental study of phonon transport in individual suspended single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Through the use of a micro fabricated device consisting of two adjacent suspended membranes, each with a platinum resistance heater and thermometer, the thermal conductance of several individual SWCNTs has been directly measured over the temperature range of 100 to 490 K. The effects of Umklapp phonon-phonon scattering remain weak and the thermal conductance remains roughly proportional to the calculated ballistic conductance throughout the temperature range. The macroscopic thermal conductance increases with temperature throughout the temperature range indicating static scattering processes or contact thermal resistance dominate transport in this regime. These results are an order of magnitude lower than the predicted ballistic thermal conductance calculated for a defect-free (18,0) nanotube. The results contrast with thermal conductance measurements reported using a high-bias DC self heating method. The discrepancy is discussed in terms of the differences in the contact thermal resistance, defects, and measurement methods.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Low-noise CCD signal recovery

A new circuit is described for the suppression of 1/f amplifier noise and floating diffusion reset noise in CCD imagers. Results are equivalent to correlated double sampling but only a single clock pulse is required. Noise measurements for the RCA SID504, 403 × 512 imager are presented.
Effect of Combined Locally Delivered Growth Factors and Systemic Sildenafil Citrate on Microrecanalization in Biodegradable Conduit for Vas Deferens Reconstruction

Objective To investigate the effect of the combination of locally delivered growth factors and oral sildenafil citrate on cross-conduit microrecanalization. Methods A total of 42 rats were divided into 7 groups. Of the 42 rats, 6 underwent bilateral vasectomy and bilateral end-to-end vasovasostomy and 12 underwent bilateral vasectomy. Of the latter 12, 6 received sildenafil citrate orally (10 mg/kg/d) for 24 weeks and 6 received placebo. A total of 24 rats underwent bilateral vasectomy and bilateral reconstruction with implantation of a 5-mm biodegradable conduit that bridged the 2 vasal ends. Of the 24 rats with conduits, 12 also had 250 pg of transforming growth factor-β and 12.5 pg of platelet-derived growth factor-β sustained release nanoparticles placed in immediate proximity to the conduit. The remaining 12 rats with conduits (6 without growth factors and 6 with growth factors) also received sildenafil citrate orally (10 mg/kg/d) for 24 weeks; the others received placebo. The reconstructed segments were harvested for histologic examination at 24 weeks. Results Five of 6 primary vasovasostomy and no vasectomy-only rats sired litters. Significantly more microcanals per conduit were observed in rats receiving sildenafil citrate: without growth factors, 3.9 vs. 0 canals/conduit (P Conclusion Orally administered sildenafil citrate enhances formation of microcanalization after postvasectomy reconstruction using a biodegradable conduit in a rat model. Locally delivered growth factors appear to increase the number of microcanals.
CTS 2010 plenary speech: Adventures in the cyber-commons — A classroom for the playstation generation

A cyber-commons is a technology-enhanced meeting room that supports local and distance collaboration, promoting group-oriented problem solving. The centerpiece of our newest cyber-commons classroom is a large tiled LCD display wall with 20 gigabits of networking. Making this kind of advanced technology available to students for their classes as well as their casual meetings allows us to prototype how advanced visualization infrastructure will impact future classrooms and meeting rooms. This talk will discuss five years of experiences with the cyber-commons and related technology.
Species differences in pharmacodynamics: Some examples

Appreciation of species variation in response to drugs is essential for the most effective application of available drugs in each species. Such variation may be due to differences in responding systems in different species. These may be: anatomical or histological differences; differences in receptor type and distribution; or differences in the nature and distribution of intermediary substances. This paper discusses examples of species differences in response related to pharmacodynamics, concentrating on 4 groups of substances: namely substances (1) involved in anaphylactic reactions, (2) acting on the sympathetic nervous system, (3) affecting the central nervous system, and (4) with effects on the reproductive system. Species variation in responses to immunostimulants and antibiotics are also referred to. Theoretically the responses of different species to a given drug might be predicted from a full understanding of the pharmacology of the drug and of comparative physiology, biochemistry and anatomy. In practice this is frequently not possible.
Versatile Electronic Measurement System for Studying Probing and Feeding Behavior of Piercing and Sucking Insects

We present the design of a versatile electronic measurement system (EMS) for studying probing and feeding behavior of piercing and sucking arthropods. This flexible EMS may be used in studies of arthropods that feed on plant tissues as well as those that feed on animal tissues. This EMS may be constructed to monitor behavior of as many as four arthropods simultaneously, using any one of four different signal frequencies. In addition, electrical information originating at each arthropod may be transferred to as many as four different recording and analytical devices at the same time. These may include a strip-chart recorder, a computer, an oscilloscope, and an audio system. We suggest methods for storage and analysis of EMS data using a microcomputer.
Double-vacancy excitations in the L atomic levels of Pr and Sm

Discontinuities resulting from the simultaneous creation of two electronic vacancies in the $L$ atomic shells of praseodymium and samarium were observed in the x-ray absorption spectra of these elements. These discontinuities were identified as being the results of the double excitations ($2{s}^{\ensuremath{-}1}+2{p}_{\frac{1}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$), ($2{s}^{\ensuremath{-}1}+2{p}_{\frac{3}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$), and ($2{p}_{\frac{1}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}+2{p}_{\frac{3}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$), and their measured energies were found to be in good agreement with the results of relativistic Hartree-Fock-Slater calculations. The magnitude of these discontinuities, although difficult to determine, is about fifty times smaller than the magnitude of the discontinuity at the ${L}_{3}$-absorption edge of the element.
Facial nerve schwannomas of the cerebellopontine angle: the mayo clinic experience.

Background There is often controversy regarding the optimal management for patients with facial nerve schwannomas (FNSs) of the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). Methods The clinical and radiological outcomes in 14 patients with CPA FNS were retrospectively reviewed. Results Patients underwent resection with anatomic nerve preservation (n = 3), facial-hypoglossal nerve anastomosis (n = 4), gamma knife radiosurgery (GKS) (n = 6), or observation (n = 1). A total of 83% of tumors that underwent GKS were stable or decreased in size. No patient who underwent resection showed evidence of tumor recurrence; the tumor under observation remained unchanged with normal facial function at the time of the last follow-up. Facial function was decreased in 57%, stable in 14%, and improved in 29% of those who underwent microsurgery. A total of 67% of patients who underwent GKS had stable facial function. Serviceable hearing was maintained in 50% of patients in the GKS group and 67% of the tumor resection group. Mean and median follow-up was 48 and 43 months, respectively (range, 12 to 95 months). Conclusion Observation should be the primary management when encountered with FNS of the CPA in those with good neurologic function. Microsurgery or radiosurgery may be used in those with poor facial function or tumor progression.
Global action to reduce HIV stigma and discrimination

There is no question that the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS can be reduced through intervention. The inclusion of stigma and discrimination reduction as a critical component of achieving an AIDS-free generation in recent UNAIDS, UN and PEPFAR political initiatives is promising. Yet national governments need evidence on effective interventions at the individual, community and societal levels in order to strategically incorporate stigma and discrimination reduction into national AIDS plans. Currently, the heterogeneity of stigma and discrimination reduction approaches and measurement makes it challenging to compare and contrast evaluated interventions. Moving forward, it is critical for the research community to: (1) clearly link intervention activities to the domains of stigma to be shifted; (2) assess the stigma domains in a consistent manner; and (3) link stigma and discrimination reduction with HIV prevention, care and treatment outcomes (e.g., uptake, adherence and retention of ART). These steps would further advance the scientific evidence base of stigma and discrimination reduction and allow for the identification of effective interventions that could be scaled up by national governments.
On estimating the distribution of optimal traveling salesman tour lengths using heuristics

The traveling salesman problem is an important combinatorial optimization problem due to its significance in academic research and its real world applications. The problem has been extensively studied and much is known about its polyhedral structure and algorithms for exact and heuristic solutions. While most work is concentrated on solving the deterministic version of the problem, there also has been some research on the stochastic TSP. Research on the stochastic TSP has concentrated on asymptotic properties and estimation of the TSP-constant. Not much is, however, known about the probability distribution of the optimal tour length. In this paper, we present some empirical results based on Monte Carlo simulations for the symmetric Euclidean and Rectilinear TSPs. We derive regression equations for predicting the first four moments of the distribution of estimated TSP tour lengths using heuristics. We then show that a Beta distribution gives excellent fits for small to moderate sized TSP problems. We derive regression equations for predicting the parameters of the Beta distribution. Finally we predict the TSP constant using two alternative approaches.
Consequences of widespread tree mortality triggered by drought and temperature stress

The multitude of forest die-off events within the last decade strongly suggests that forest mortality is an emerging global phenomenon, constituting a major uncertainty in projections of climate impacts on terrestrial ecosystems, climate-ecosystem interactions, and carbon-cycle feedbacks. This Review considers the societal and ecological consequences of dying forests.
Factors that Affect the Adoption and Use of Electronic Mail by K-12 Foreign Language Educators

This article reports the results of workshop electronic-mail (e-mail) instruction designed to address Rogers' five characteristics that influence adoption of an innovation: relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability. K-12 foreign language teachers who received e-mail instruction during four foreign language workshops were found to use e-mail significantly more than comparable foreign language teachers who did not receive instruction. Several factors found to influence workshop participants' adoption of e-mail were: e-mail training, need to keep up with the latest educational technology trends, desire to contact teachers and students around the world, availability of a relatively easy-to-use system, hands-on e-mail experience, school support, and individual computer anxiety level.
Alcohol as a risk factor for drownings: A review of the literature (1950–1985)∗☆

We identified 36 English language studies (1950-1985) on alcohol and drownings. The majority of these were descriptive, reporting on the percent of drowning victims positive for alcohol upon autopsy. Most studies fell into one of three categories: Type A--complete ascertainment, duration of submergence specified; Type B--complete ascertainment, duration of submergence unspecified; Type C--partial ascertainment. Among Type A studies, percent of positives for alcohol ranged from 29% to 47%. Among Type B studies, percents ranged from 15% to 69%. Among Type C studies, percents ranged from 18% to 86%. We conclude that (1) between 25% and 50% of adult drowning victims have been exposed to alcohol and that (2) without data on the frequency of alcohol consumption among non-victims engaged in aquatic activities, the causal role of alcohol in drownings is uncertain. Suggestions for further research are offered.
A nonlinear multivariate error components analysis of technology and specific factor productivity growth with an application to the U.S. Airlines

Abstract This study outlines a nonlinear model of technology and specific factor productivity growth and uses the model to analyze a new panel of sixteen domestic carriers in the U.S. airline industry over 35 quarters from 1970.I to 1978.III. We outline mapping procedures which allow construction of the production surfaces implied by the translog cost function used in our analysis. To our knowledge this study is the first to estimate such a general nonlinear multivariate error components model using full-information maximum likelihood.
A Numerical Method for Distributed Parameter Structural Optimization Problems with Repeated Eigenvalues

ABSTRACT A numerical method for solving distributed parameter structural optimization problems in which repeated eigenvalues may occur is formulated. Recent results on directional differentiability of repeated eigenvalues are used to develop a generalized steepest descent method for structural optimization. The algorithm is shown to overcome technical difficulties associated with nondifferentiability of repeated eigenvalues. The method is used to optimize design of a clamped-clamped column in which a repeated eigenvalue occurs.
Resource allocation for OFDM underwater acoustic cooperative transmission with limited feedback

The underwater acoustic (UWA) communication has been regarded as one of the most challenging wireless communications due to the unique properties, such as limited bandwidth, extended multipath delay, medium inhomogeneities, rapid time-variation and large Doppler shifts. Cooperative relaying technique is a promising technique to provide high rate data transmission. However, literature on cooperative communications in UWA environments is very scarce. In this paper, we propose a novel UWA cooperative communication system, which involves the wave cooperative (WC) transmission protocol, Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) and the Lloyd algorithm-based limited feedback procedure for the first time. We take capacity criterion-based power allocation strategy as an example to demonstrate the performance of our proposed system. Simulation results show the system capacity performance based on uniform allocation (non-feedback), several bits of feedback and perfect feedback. Furthermore, simulation results compare the performance between the WC transmission protocol and the traditional amplify-and-forward (AF) transmission protocol.
Remarks about the driplines

Reaching the limits of nuclear stability has been one of the driving forces of nuclear physics experiments. A few observations and remarks about the current status of the proton and neutron driplines will be presented.
Profitable dreams in the marketplace of desire: Alice in Wonderland, a Christmas Carol, and The Interpretation of Dreams

(1988). Profitable dreams in the marketplace of desire: Alice in Wonderland, a Christmas Carol, and The Interpretation of Dreams. Nineteenth-Century Contexts: Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 35-45.
HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE SEARCH FOR M SUBDWARF BINARIES

We present HST ACS observations of 19 nearby M subdwarfs in a search for binary systems. Other than the wide common proper-motion pair LHS 2140/2139, none of our sdM and esdM targets are found to be binaries. Our survey is sensitive to equal-luminosity companions at close (2-8 AU) separations, while substellar secondaries could have been detected at separations in the range of 6-30 AU. To check for wide binaries, we have compared the POSS I and II images in a field of view as large as -->10' × 10', but could not detect a single comoving star for any of the targets. Combining our results with those from Gizis & Reid, we have a binary fraction of 3% (1/28). Detection of a small number of M subdwarf binaries reported in the literature suggests a higher fraction than the one obtained here, probably comparable to that found for the more massive solar-type stars in the halo (13%-15%). Comparison with the disk M dwarf fraction (~25%), however, suggests multiplicity to be rare among the lowest mass halo stars, implying the two populations formed under different initial conditions. The low binary fraction in our survey could be explained by selection biases. A decrease in multiplicity has been observed in the disk for masses below 0.1 -->M☉, the peak in the disk mass function (MF). The globular cluster MF is found to peak at about 0.33 -->M☉, with a decrease in the number of stars per unit mass below the peak mass. Our sample being composed of stars with masses between ~0.2 and 0.085 -->M☉ suggests that a decrease in multiplicity similar to the disk may also be true for the halo stars, but perhaps below a mass of ~0.3 -->M☉. A higher M subdwarf binary fraction may be obtained if the selected primaries have masses near or higher than the peak in the MF.
A single high dose of methamphetamine increases cocaine self-administration by depletion of striatal dopamine in rats

Psychostimulant addicts often take high doses of drugs, and high doses of psychostimulants such as methamphetamine (METH) are neurotoxic to striatal dopamine (DA) terminals. Yet, the effects of high doses of METH on drug-seeking and drug-taking behavior have not been examined. In the present study, we found that single high doses of METH in rats (10-20 mg/kg) dose-dependently increased cocaine self-administration under fixed-ratio 2 (FR2) reinforcement conditions, while higher doses (40 mg/kgx1 or 10 mg/kg/2 hx4) caused high mortality among rats maintained on daily cocaine self-administration. The increased cocaine self-administration appeared to be a compensatory response to reduced cocaine reward after METH, because the same doses of METH caused a dose-dependent reduction both in "break-point" levels for cocaine self-administration under progressive-ratio reinforcement and in nucleus accumbens DA response to acute cocaine. Further, METH (10-20 mg/kg) produced large DA release (4000%-6000% over baseline), followed by a significant reduction in striatal DA and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) contents, but without significant changes in striatal DA transporter levels. These findings suggest that the present high doses of METH caused striatal DA depletion or hypofunction without severe damage in DA terminals, which may contribute to the increased cocaine-taking behavior observed in the present study. Provided that the present doses of METH may mimic METH overdose incidents in humans, the present findings suggest that METH-induced DA depletion or neurotoxicity may lead to an increase in subsequent drug-taking and drug-seeking behavior.
Neurosecretory control of integumental water exchange in the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris L.

Abstract Brain removal increases the integumental water exchange of Lumbricus terrestris in air and in water. Brain reimplantation restores water exchange to control levels. Injection of brain homogenate into the coelom significantly lowers the water exchange rate of hydrated decerebrate animals, suggesting that a chemical from the brain, probably a neurosecretory hormone, reduces integumental water exchange. This factor is heat-stable, but nothing else about its nature is known.
Volumetric analysis of tumors in rodents using the variable resolution x-ray (VRX) CT-scanner

The Variable Resolution X-ray (VRX) CT system, developed at the UTHSC, Memphis, has the potential for use in animal imaging. Animal models of tumor progression and pharmacological impact are becoming increasingly important in understanding the molecular and mechanistic basis of tumor development. In general, CT-imaging offers several advantages in animal research: a fast throughput of seconds to minutes reducing the physiological stress animals are exposed to, and it is an inexpensive modality affordable to many animal laboratories. We are developing the VRX CT scanner as a non-invasive imaging modality to measure tumor volume, progression, and metastasis. From the axial images taken by the VRX CT-scanner, tumor area was measured and the tumor volume was calculated. Animals were also imaged using an optical liquid nitrogen-cooled CCD camera to detect tumor fluorescence. A simple image fusion with a planner x-ray image was used to ascertain the position of the tumors, animals were then sacrificed the tumors excised, and the tumor volume calculated by physical measurements. Furthermore, using a specially designed phantom with three spheres of different volumes, we demonstrated that our system allowed us to estimate the volume with up to 10% accuracy; we expect this to increase dramatically in the next few months.
3353 Diagnostic yield and complication rate of endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (erc) after orthotopic liver transplantation (olt).

Background: The overall yield of ERC and the risk of post-procedure complications in patients post-OLT are not well defined. The purpose of this study is to review the yield and risk of ERC in OLT patients with suspected biliary complications. Methods: The records of 369 patients receiving 407 grafts from 1/1/94 to 1/1/99 were reviewed. ERC was attempted in 122 patients after OLT secondary to clinical evidence suggesting cholestasis or bile leak. Mean follow-up is 38 mo (range11-70 mo). Results: A total of 278 ERC s were performed in these 122 patients. ERC was successful in 118 patients (97%, 111 on first attempt and 7 on second attempt). 99/122 (84%) had significant abnormalities on ERCs. Biliary strictures and/or leaks were most common (86/118, 72%). Biliary sphincterotomy was performed in 80 patients. The table delineates 36 complications occurring in 29 patients (12.9% of all procedures, 24% of all patients). 16/36 (44%) of all complications were associated with sphincterotomy. Conclusions: ERC has a high diagnostic yield in OLT patients suspected of having a biliary complication, but it is associated with a higher risk of complications than reported in the non-transplant population. The factors responsible for the increased risk remain to be defined.
Purification of L-arginine kinase from the tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (Noctuidae) and its function in L-canavanine detoxification

Abstract Larval tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens [Noctuidae]are aggressive, generalist feeders that tolerate high levels of dietary l -canavanine, an insecticidal l -arginine antimetabolite; the LC50 for dietary canavanine is 300 mM. Arginine kinase (adenosine 5′ triphosphate: l -arginine phosphotransferase, EC 3.5.3.1), which mediates a phosphorylation of canavanine to yield the novel phosphagen, L-canavanine phosphate, was purified from larval gut. Kinetic parameters revealed an apparent Km value of 7.2 × 10−4 and 2.13 × 10−2M for arginine and canavanine, respectively. These Km values suggest that arginine kinase's affinity for canavanine is substantially less than its affinity for arginine. The ability of arginine kinase to metabolize canavanine accounts for the enhancement in canavanine catabolism in the presence of ATP observed in canavanine-treated larvae. Canavanine is a more effective substrate for arginine kinase than homoarginine, 2-amino-4-guanidinobutyric acid, and 2-amino-3-guanidinopropionic acid. However, all the arginine analogs were more active substrates for arginine kinase than homocanavanine and 2-amino-3-guanidinooxypropionic acid, the higher and lower canavanine analogs, respectively. When arginine kinase reacted with N-tris[hydroxymethyllmethylglycine (tricine) massive amounts of an unidentified, but ninhydrin-positive product was formed. The larvae showed no detectable loss in their ability to deal with dietary canavanine in the presence of tricine buffer.
Demosaicking methods for multispectral cameras using mosaic focal plane array technology

In recent times, the use of multispectral images has rapidly grown in various fields like defense, agriculture, medicine, etc. However, the image acquisition technology for multispectral images is still in its primitive stages compared to the technology used in commercial digital color cameras. Digital color cameras use mosaicked technology for acquiring and forming color images. An array of sensors is used to capture one spectral band per pixel location. The final image is then formed by filling the missing spectral band intensity values at each pixel location. This process of estimating the full color image from the acquired sensor data is called demosaicking. In this paper, we propose to use the mosaicked technology for multispectral image acquisition systems. This paper focuses on developing demosaicking methods for such multispectral image acquisition systems. We explore ways of extending the existing demosaicking methods to multispectral images. This paper also addresses the problem of noise and degradations present during the acquisition process. The existing demosaicking methods tend to fail in the presence of external noise and degradations. To solve this problem, we have developed a maximum aposteriori probability (MAP) based method that performs demosaicking and at the same time reduces noise and degradations in the output. This novel approach treats the demosaicking problem as an image restoration problem and solves the optimization problem using the gradient descent method. The experimental results show that the MAP based demosaicking method provides a superior output compared to the traditional demosaicking methods. Various performance metrics have been used to compare results from different demosaicking algorithms.
Expression of androgen receptor coactivator ARA70/ELE1 in androgenic alopecia

Background Androgens have been implicated in androgenic alopecia as evidenced by the increased cutaneous expression of androgen receptor (AR), 5alpha-reductase, and decreased aromatase. Abnormalities of the AR-signal transduction pathway probably participate in the development of androgenic alopecia. ARA70/ELE1 is an AR coactivator with two isoforms, one full-length form (ARA70alpha/ELE1alpha), and an internally deleted form (ARA70beta/ELE1beta). We decided to examine the cutaneous expression of both isoforms in male androgenic alopecia. Methods Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections from seven subjects with androgenic alopecia with matched punch biopsies from non-balding and balding areas were examined by in situ hybridization. Results Expression of at least one of the two probes for ARA70/ELE1 was present in all phases of the hair-growth cycle in all epithelial hair structures except for the inner root sheath. The dermal papilla and hair bulb expressed only the short (beta) but not the long (alpha) form of ARA70/ELE1. In situ labeling for ARA70beta/ELE1beta was weaker in the dermal papilla of balding recipient areas than those from donor ones. Conclusions Our data further support that the hair growth is regulated by androgens. The differential expression pattern of ARA70/ELE1 suggests that this key androgen receptor coactivator is involved in androgenic alopecia. Lee P, Zhu C-C, Sadick NS, Diwan AH, Zhang PS, Liu JS, Prieto VG. Expression of androgen receptor coactivator ARA70/ELE1 in androgenic alopecia.
Reliability analysis of continuous mechanical systems using multistate fault trees

Abstract A method is presented which employs multistate fault trees to determine the reliability of a system wholly or partially comprised of continuous random variables. The advantage of this method over Monte Carlo simulation is that an algebraic expression for system reliability can be generated which, in turn, can be used to evaluate the reliability of the system corresponding to various probability distributions. A four-bar function generating mechanism and a single-shoe drum brake are considered as illustrative examples which compare the results of the present approach to those obtained by the Monte Carlo method.
DIAGNOSIS OF DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS AND PULMONARY EMBOLISM

The approach to the patient with suspected deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) has evolved to include a more clearly delineated relationship between clinical features and the results of diagnostic studies. History and physical examination findings are combined to generate a clinical probability that serves as a guide to test selection and interpretation. Autopsy findings indicate that 73% of pulmonary emboli diagnosed at autopsy were not detected clinically. 48 PE has a mortality rate of 18% to 30% without treatment. 46 Although greater than 90% of pulmonary emboli arise from DVT, as many as 50% of patients with leg symptoms are proven to have a diagnosis other than DVT (Table 1). 13,44,60,68 Even classic symptoms for PE, such as pleuritic chest pain and hemoptysis, are not particularly useful in determining the probability of PE. 46 Clinical features alone are inadequate for diagnosis. Although DVT and PE may be viewed as distinct clinical entities, the two conditions are considered as a continuum of disease. Patients confirmed to have PE may not have identifiable sources of DVT in more than 50% of cases, 23 and many patients with proximal DVT have clinically silent PE. Although the majority of symptomatic thrombi are identified in proximal veins, 30,32 at least 50% of pulmonary emboli occur in asymptomatic patients, unsuspected of having DVT. 17 Although the majority of thrombi occur in infrapopliteal veins, the major source of emboli is proximal DVT. 47,58,64 Calf DVT propagates proximally in about 20% to 30% of cases. 64 Factors predisposing to venous thromboembolic disease are categorized as clinical conditions, hereditary blood defects, and acquired blood defects. 12,14,54,75,76 High-risk clinical problems include malignancy, stasis, postoperative state, sepsis, trauma, cardiac disease, burns, and use of estrogen-containing compounds. Hereditary and acquired blood protein defects, including the factor V Leiden mutation, 53,55 are as characterized in the article by Bick elsewhere in this issue.
The Introduction of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout into a Previously Fishless Lake: Feeding Habits and Effects upon the Zooplankton and Benthic Community

Abstract The introduction of lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi Richardson) into previously fishless, Granite lake, Washington in 1987, drastically reduced the density of larval Chaoborus trivittatus in 1988. Chaoborus trivittatus was reduced from a mean summer density of 650/m2 in 1987 to a mean summer density of 10/m2 in 1988. Chaoborus trivittatus and Daphnia pulicaria were the most important prey items of the trout. Although D. pulicaria was equally important in the trout diet, its density following trout introduction did not change. Two factors may explain the lack of D. pulicaria decline. First, size-selective predation from trout was not intense enough to remove the largest D. pulicaria, which likely had the highest fecundity. Secondly, any predation effect the trout had upon D. pulicaria was offset by the lack of C. trivittatus predation on D. pulicaria, due to the precipitous decline of C. trivittatus. During the decline of C. trivittatus, no significant changes in the density...
Phagocytosis of candida albicans by lymphatic tumour cells in vitro

Experiments were carried out to investigate whether different lymphatic tumour cell lines have similar kinetic characteristics of phagocytosis of microorganisms. Six tumour cell lines were used. These were a human T-cell line (CEM), a mouse T-cell line (YAC-1), a human B-cell line (LAZ), and a human erythroleukemic tumour cells (K562), whereas 2 cell lines of professional phagocytosis were used as controls, a human macrophage cell line (THP1) and a mouse macrophage cell line (P388D1). Tumour cells were mixed with candida albicans at a ratio of 10:1 of candida to tumour cells and the percentage of tumour cells that had attached/phagocytosed candida was determined. After 4 h coculture with candida, tumour cells not of T-cell origin (LAZ and K562) showed moderate level of phagocytosis (28%), whereas tumour cells of T-cell origin (CEM and YAC-1) demonstrated low levels of phagocytosis (15%) as compared to macrophage cell lines (THP1 and P388D1) that showed maximum phagocytosis (64-78%). Acid phosphatase (AcPase) activity was increased by 33% during coculture of YAC-1 cells and yeast cells. In conclusion, the results suggest that lymphatic tumour cells of nonphagocytic origin acquire phagocytic properties during the course of malignancy, and digestion of phagocytosed yeast cells maybe related with AcPase activity, as well as that of other lysosomal enzymes. This phenomenon may represent one mechanism by which tumour cells downregulate immune surveillance.
Dwarfism with skin manifestations.

The syndrome of low birth weight (intrauterine) dwarfism embraces a variety of types, one of which is the Bloom dwarf in whom there is a rash following exposure to sunlight. Three dwarfs of the Bloom type are described, and evidence is presented to suggest a hereditary basis for the disorder.
Rapid ice discharge from southeast Greenland glaciers

Interferometric synthetic-aperture radar (InSAR) observations of southeast Greenland glaciers acquired by the Earth Remote Sensing Satellites (ERS-1/2) in 1996 were combined with ice sounding radar data collected in the late 1990s to estimate a total discharge of 46 ± 3 km 3 ice per year between 62°N and 66°N, which is significantly lower than a mass input of 29 ± 3 km 3 ice per year calculated from a recent compilation of snow accumulation data. Further north, Helheim Glacier discharges 23 ± 1 km 3/yr vs 30 ± 3 km 3/yr accumulation; Kangerdlugssuaq Glacier discharges 29 ± 2 km 3/yr vs 23 ± km 3/yr; and Daugaard-Jensen Glacier discharges 10.5 ± 0.6 km 3/yr vs 10.5 ± 1 km 3/yr. The mass balance of east Greenland glaciers is therefore dominated by the negative mass balance of southeast Greenland glaciers (- 17 ± 4 km 3/yr), equivalent to a sea level rise of 0.04 ± 0.01 mm/yr. Warmer and drier conditions cannot explain the imbalance which we attribute to longterm changes in ice dynamics. Copyright 2004 by the American Geophysical Union.
Electrolyte-dependent multiparticle motion near electrodes in oscillating electric fields.

The directed assembly of micrometer-scale particles into hexagonal lattices on electrodes was probed by subjecting them to electric fields oscillating at 100 Hz. Solutions of KOH, NaHCO 3, and KC1 were used because previous investigations of particle pair behavior had shown that an electrolyte-dependent phase angle dictates whether two particles aggregate or separate at low frequencies. Here it was found that particle ensembles, aggregating or separating, adopt a 2D hexagonal lattice in both cases; the difference appears in the particle spacing. For electrolytes such as NaHCO 3 and KC1, where two isolated particles aggregate, the gap between particle edges is between 1 and 1.5 particle diameters; in KOH, where two particles tend to separate, the interparticle spacing is several diameters.
Comparisons of in situ nitrogen disappearance kinetics of wheat forages harvested by various techniques and evaluated in confined and grazing steers

Abstract Ruminal in situ disappearance kinetics of nitrogen (N) in forages are frequently evaluated in confined animals, but there have been relatively few attempts to obtain these kinetic estimates from grazing animals. Our objectives were to evaluate the effects of harvest technique and sampling date on the in situ N disappearance kinetics and nutritive value of wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) forage, and to compare in situ disappearance kinetics of N for these forages when the experimental steers were housed in confinement with those obtained from steers grazing wheat pasture. Wheat forages were harvested on three dates (March 6, March 27, and April 11, 2000) using five sampling techniques. These included three clipping techniques (whole plant, random pluck, and top half) and two evaluations of masticates (oven dried at 50 °C or lyophilized). Disappearance kinetics of N for the 15 experimental forages were evaluated by the in situ technique using five 393±54.4 kg crossbred steers that were offered an alfalfa based ( Medicago sativa L.) diet and were housed in confinement. Subsequently, this evaluation was repeated in five 448±48.6 kg crossbred steers grazing wheat pasture during March 2001. Kinetic parameter estimates obtained from grazing steers were regressed on those obtained from confined steers. A slope of unity and an intercept of zero is indicative of agreement between the two methods. For lag time and fractions A and B (i.e., portions of total N that are immediately soluble and that disappear at a measurable rate, respectively), the slopes and intercepts did not differ ( P ≥0.126) from unity and zero, respectively. For the disappearance rate ( K d ), the slope (0.92) did not differ ( P =0.408) from unity, but the intercept (0.027) was higher ( P =0.026) than zero. The slope (1.23) and intercept (−24.3% of N) for estimates of effective ruminal disappearance of N differed ( P ≤0.033) from unity and zero, respectively, but these differences were largely an artifact of the different ruminal passage rates used to calculate effective disappearance. From a practical standpoint, the in situ disappearance kinetics of N for these wheat forages were not altered substantially when they were obtained from grazing steers.
Should menopausal women at increased risk for breast cancer use tamoxifen, raloxifene, or hormone therapy?: a framework for personalized risk assessment and counseling.

Background. Menopausal women with a family history of breast cancer have several treamment options, including tamoxifen, raloxifene, and hormone therapy. This complex decision should be based on each woman’s risk to develop breast cancer, menopausal symptoms, preferences, and risks for other conditions. Current models in use do not include pedigree analysis, personalized risk assessment, or genetic testing in this process.Methods. We created a personalized risk assessment and genetic counseling intervention for healthy women with a first-degree relative with breast cancer. Participants were given a personalized risk assessment for breast cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, and uterine cancer based on family history and personal health data.Counseling Model. The effectiveness of this novel genetic counseling intervention was demonstrated in a randomized trial and these results are published elsewhere. The framework for this counseling model, with case examples from the clinical trial, is outlined in this article.Conclusions. As more menopausal therapies are developed, each with its own risks and benefits, it will become even more critical to have a personalized counseling model for use in this process. Clinicians and educators can utilize the framework presented here for counseling women with a family history of breast cancer.
Realization of an All-Optical Zero to π Cross-Phase Modulation Jump

We report on the experimental demonstration of an all-optical π cross-phase modulation jump. By performing a preselection, an optically induced unitary transformation, and then a postselection on the polarization degree of freedom, the phase of the output beam acquires either a zero or π phase shift (with no other possible values). The postselection results in optical loss in the output beam. An input state may be chosen near the resulting phase singularity, yielding a pi phase shift even for weak interaction strengths. The scheme is experimentally demonstrated using a coherently prepared dark state in a warm atomic cesium vapor.
Predicting transition and adjustment to college: biomedical and behavioral science aspirants’ and minority students’ first year of college

The purpose of this study is to explore key factors that impact the college transition of aspiring underrepresented minority students in the biomedical and behavioral sciences, in comparison with White, Asian students and non-science minority students. We examined successful management of the academic environment and sense of belonging during the first college year. Longitudinal data were derived from the Higher Education Research Institute’s (HERI) 2004 Cooperative Institutional Research Program (CIRP) Freshman Survey and the 2005 Your First College Year (YFCY) Survey. Using a reformulation of the integration model (Nora, Barlow, and Crisp, 2005), we find concerns about college financing, negotiating family support and responsibility, and campus racial dynamics (perceived and behavioral) affect student adjustment and sense of integration in the first year.
Joining of Si-Ti-C-O fibre-assembled ceramic composites with 72Ag-26Cu-2Ti filler metal

Si-Ti-C-O fibre-assembled ceramic composites were joined with 72Ag-26Cu-2Ti filler metal at 1123 K and 1223 K in vacuum. The composites consisted of Si-Ti-C-O fibres, which were assembled unidirectionally, and oxide material filling the spaces between the fibres. During the joining process, frothing occurred at the joining interfaces. Joining interfaces were observed by SEM and analysed by electron probe microanalysis and X-ray diffraction. The strength of the joints was evaluated by four-point bending tests. Most of Si-Ti-C-O fibre/filler metal interfaces and the oxide material/filler metal interfaces were firm without cracking and separation. At the fibre/metal interfaces, a high concentration of titanium was confirmed. Among the specimens joined at 1123 K, the average strength, measured by the bending test, was 96 MPa. It was inferred that the defects at the joining interfaces formed by frothing had decreased the strength of the joints. Metallizing of the surfaces to be joined with the same filler metal as a pretreatment before joining, was effective in preventing frothing during joining and improving the joining strength. The average strength of the joints with pretreatment was 211 MPa.
Formation of an interconnected network of iron melt at Earth/'s lower mantle conditions

The differentiation of the Earth into mantle and core implies that there is a mechanism to separate iron from silicates. Three-dimensional imaging of samples experimentally subjected to high pressures reveals that liquid iron forms interconnected melt networks at lower mantle conditions, suggesting pathways through which iron can percolate towards the core.
Chiari Malformation in a Patient Presenting With Knee Pain

The patient was a 20-year-old male collegiate athlete who was referred to physical therapy for left knee pain. The patient reported an insidious onset of symptoms 1 year prior to evaluation and the symptoms were intermittent in nature, though exacerbation of his knee pain was attributed to being tackled during a backyard football game 3 months prior to evaluation. He described his left knee pain as “burning” that worsened with walking more than 10 minutes and reported that his left foot would “go to sleep” after sitting for approximately 30 minutes. He also complained of decreased standing balance. Additionally, the patient reported that he had episodic headaches. Because of a strong suspicion of spinal cord involvement, the patient was immediately taken to the emergency department where the attending physician evaluated the patient and ordered magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging revealed a Chiari I malformation. Three weeks aft...
The effect of glycogen depletion and supercompensation on the physical working capacity at the fatigue threshold

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of glycogen depletion and super-compensation on the physical working capacity at the fatigue threshold (PWCFT). Ten adult males (mean age 23 years, SD 3) volunteered as subjects for this study. During the first laboratory visit the subjects performed a maximal bicycle ergometer test for the determination of maximum oxygen consumption\(\left( {\dot V_{O_{2 max} } } \right)\). Between 48 and 72 h later, the subjects pedaled to exhaustion at a power output which corresponded to a mean of 76% of\(\left( {\dot V_{O_{2 max} } } \right)\) (range, 72–80%) for the purpose of glycogen depletion. For the next 3 days, the subjects were fed a 10.5 MJ · day−1 low carbohydrate diet which consisted of 7.5% carbohydrates, 22.0% protein and 70.5% fat. The subjects then performed an incremental cycle ergometer test to the onset of fatigue or PWCFT, which was estimated from integrated electromyographic voltages of the vastus lateralis muscle. For the next 3 days the subjects were fed a 10.5 MJ high carbohydrate diet which consisted of 72.2% carbohydrates, 12.4% protein and 15.4% fats for the purpose of glycogen supercompensation. The subjects then performed a second PWCFT test. A paired t-test indicated that there was no significant (p > 0.05) difference between the means of the PWCFT values (depletion 246 W, SD 30; supercompensation 265 W, SD 28) and they were highly correlated atr=0.884. The results of this investigation suggested that the methods commonly used to affect glycogen depletion or supercompensation had no effect on PWCFT.
The neuroendocrine basis of midgut tumour induction in cockroaches

Abstract Harker's work on the experimental production of midgut tumours in Periplaneta americana L. has been repeated. No tumours appeared in individuals kept in normal conditions of light and darkness following four successive daily implantations of suboesophageal ganglia taken from cock-roaches living under reversed conditions of illumination. Contrary to Harker's observations, however, tumours appeared in other experimental series of suboesophageal ganglion implantations and in sham controls, but their incidence was very low. In addition, tumour induction was found following operations on organs which are related to the suboesophageal ganglion anatomically or endocrinologically. With operations where the probability of severing the recurrent nerve was high, there was a higher incidence of tumours than in other operations where severance of this nerve was unlikely. It does not appear that material or hormone from the suboesophageal ganglion is causally related to tumour induction.