cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Finding 3 × 3 Hermitian Matrices over the Octonions with Imaginary Eigenvalues

We show that any 3-component octonionic vector which is purely imaginary, but not quaternionic, is an eigenvector of a 6-parameter family of Hermitian octonionic matrices, with imaginary eigenvalue equal to the associator of its elements.
Production, characterization, and application of anti-gossypol polyclonal antibodies.

This paper describes the development of antibodies for detection of gossypol in cottonseed. Gossypol was linked to LPH (Limulus polyphemus hemolymph), BSA (bovine serum albumin), amines, or amino acids via Schiff base intermediates for the production of immunogen, solid-phase, and gossypol derivatives. Products were stabilized using NaBH3CN. Polyclonal antibodies were produced from rabbits after four immunizations with gossypol−LPH. In ELISA, approximately 0.4 μΜ caused 50% inhibition of binding (I50) to gossypol−BSA solid-phase, when gossypol derivatives were used competitively. This antibody showed higher affinity to lysine-derivatized gossypol, hemigossypol, gossypolone, 6,6‘-dimethoxygossypol, and hexamethoxygossypol compared to underivatized counterparts, and this antibody did not recognize naphthalene or naphthol. The ELISA results for acetone-extractable gossypol in cottonseed products (derivatized with l-(+)-lysine) showed good correlation (r2 = 0.96) with free gossypol results obtained using the ...
Flux sensing and control of static AC drives by the use of flux coils

Application of air gap flux sensing coils to the control of static AC induction motor drives is discussed. Optimum flux coil configurations are developed for the most frequently used slot combinations. Practical results are presented which verify the validity of the design approach. Application of flux signals to the control of practical static AC drives is included with emphasis placed on state-of-the-art techniques.
Hypertension in Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis: Pathophysiology and Management

Hypertension affects 24% of the adult US population. In the United States, 3% of the adult population has an elevated serum creatinine level, and 70% of these patients have hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension in chronic kidney disease (CKD) depends on the patient's age and the severity of renal failure, proteinuria, and underlying renal disease. As patients with CKD progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), 86% are diagnosed with hypertension. It has long been recognized that kidney function affects and is affected by hypertension. This article discusses the pathophysiology and management of hypertension in patients with CKD.
Creating line defects with a single micro-sphere width in a DNA-linked 2D colloidal crystal array using a pulsed laser

A creation of micron-size narrow line defects in 2D colloidal crystal array was successfully accomplished using a focused pulsed laser. The 2D colloidal crystal arrays were obtained by a convective assembly of polystyrene latex micro-spheres (1.8 μm) and then immobilized onto the glass substrate by DNA hybridization process. To release a micro-sphere from the crystal, a focused laser beam was utilized to de-hybridize the DNA by raising the temperature above its melting point. From previous studies (Geiss E, Fabrication and defect design in two-dimensional colloidal photonic crystals. Ph.D dissertation thesis, 2003; Kim et al., Mater Sci Eng 26:1401–1407, 2006; Geiss et al., sudmitted), using a continuous argon ion laser, 514 nm, line-writing in colloidal crystal with 2–4 micro-sphere widths were achieved. In this study using the Nd:YAG pulsed laser’s second harmonic, 532 nm, line-writing of 1 micro-sphere width was accomplished. The presence of EB (ethidium bromide) dye that intercalates into the ds-DNA strands that bind the micro-spheres to the substrate facilitated the micro-sphere releasing process by reducing the laser energy required to release a micro-sphere. Factors that influenced controlled defect insertion were the medium containing the colloidal crystal, the dyes imposed on the crystal and the self-assembled micro-sphere groups. The most effective medium condition were determined at 1 mM global EB dye in 0.1 M NaCl for removing an individual micro-sphere in single micro-spheres, groups of micro-spheres and the close-packed arrays. Single micro-sphere width simple curves and corners in the photonic crystals were then created.
All-Fiber-Optic Gyroscope With Linear Scale Factor Using Phase Detection

Direct measurement of Sagnac phase shift from an open-loop, all-fiber-optic gyroscope using signal processing is described. The photodetector output from a phase modulated gyro is amplitude modulated at the phase modulation frequency to transpose the optical phase shift into a low frequency electronic phase shift, which is measured using a digital time interval counter. A wide dynamic range and linear scale factor are demonstrated using this approach.
Fluorescent age pigment in insect lysosomes

Fluorescent pigment accumulates in the lysomal fraction of Spodoptera sixth instars. It was purified by silicic acid chromatography. The fluorescent fraction was characterized by conjugated unsaturation, reactivity with thiobarbituric acid, and lability in alkali; all reminiscent of age pigment. The phosphorus content of the purified fraction was negligible and nitrogen was not detected. It is suggested that the material is degraded, perhaps polymerized lipid fragments.
Rrp6p, the Yeast Homologue of the Human PM-Scl 100-kDa Autoantigen, Is Essential for Efficient 5.8 S rRNA 3′ End Formation

The eukaryotic 25 S, 18 S, and 5.8 S rRNAs are synthesized as a single transcript with two internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2), which are removed by endo- and exoribonucleolytic steps to produce mature rRNA. Genetic selection for suppressors of a polyadenylation defect yielded two cold-sensitive alleles of a gene that we named RRP6 (ribosomal RNA processing). Molecular cloning of RRP6 revealed its homology to a 100-kDa human, nucleolar PM-Scl autoantigen and to Escherichia coli RNase D, a 3'-5' exoribonuclease. Recessive mutations in rrp6 result in the accumulation of a novel 5. 8 S rRNA processing intermediate, called 5.8 S*, which has normal 5' ends, but retains approximately 30 nucleotides of ITS2. Pulse-chase analysis of 5.8 S rRNA processing in an rrp6- strain revealed a precursor-product relationship between 5.8 S* and 5.8 S rRNAs, suggesting that Rrp6p plays a role in the removal of the last 30 nucleotides of ITS2 from 5.8 S precursors. A portion of 5.8 S* rRNA assembles into 60 S ribosomes which form polyribosomes, suggesting that they function in protein synthesis. These findings indicate that Rrp6p plays a role in 5.8 S rRNA 3' end formation, and they identify a functional intermediate in the rRNA processing pathway.
Synthesis of optically active vinyl polymers by asymmetric induction. II

Maleic anhydride and l-α-methylbenzyl vinyl ether were copolymerized by a free radical mechanism in homogeneous solution to yield a levorotatory copolymer. Upon removal of the original asymmetric center by photobromination and hydrolysis, a dextrorotatory copolymer was produced. This reversal of the sign of rotation can be attributed only to an excess of one configuration in the chain backbone induced during the propagation step of the polymerization.
Contraceptive use among women smokers and nonsmokers in the San Francisco Bay area.

Background. Women smokers were previously reported to be more sexually active but less likely to use contraception than nonsmokers. Differences in contraceptive choices between the two groups were investigated. Methods. Sexually active women, 287 who smoked cigarettes and 263 who did not smoke, were queried about current contraceptive use and demographic, sexual, and reproductive factors. Results. Sexually active smokers were less likely than nonsmokers to use contraceptives, especially oral contraceptives. The deficit of contraceptive use among smokers was most pronounced in women under age 30, black women, single women, women with some college education, nulliparous women, women who reported early age at first intercourse, and women who reported four or more lifetime sexual partners. In contrast, smokers were more than twice as likely as nonsmokers to use sterilization (P = 0.002). Among women over age 30, prevalence of contraceptive use was similar between the two groups. Oral contraceptives were used by fewer smokers than nonsmokers who were under age 24 (P = 0.01), had a high school education or less (P = 0.01), and/or had never been pregnant (P = 0.03). Conclusions. Young, sexually active women who smoked cigarettes were less likely than nonsmokers to have used contraceptives, especially oral contraceptives, while women smokers over age 30 were more likely than nonsmokers to have used sterilization.
Assessment of liver and kidney enhancement with a perfluorocarbon vapor-stabilized US contrast agent.

Rationale and Objectives. The authors evaluated the time-echogenicity response of liver, kidney, and implanted VX2 tumor after injection of a microbubble contrast medium and assessed use of an avascular lesion as an internal standard. Materials and Methods. Twenty-one New Zealand White rabbits were studied. To evaluate use of an internal standard and the dose-response relationship, nine rabbits with 7-day-old avascular liver lesions created by alcohol ablation received 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mL of AF0145, a microbubble contrast agent. To evaluate tumore echogenicity, 12 rabbits implanted with VX2 tumor in the liver (six also underwent alcohol ablation) received 0.5 mL of AF0145. Videodensitometry was used to analyze echogenicity changes over 10 minutes. Results. Echogenicity of the alcohol-ablated liver was not affected by contrast material administration. Liver and kidney echogenicity relative to ablation increased linearly with dose, peaking 1 minute after injection and decaying to baseline over 9 minutes. Contrast material administration defined the size and margins of VX2 lesions more clearly. In the arterial phase, the tumor rim was hyperechoic relative to surrounding liver, becoming isoechoic during the portal venous phase then hypoechoic during the late phase parenchymal phase. Conclusions. Lesions created by alcohol ablation can be used as an internal standard for quantitative analysis of adjacent tissues. AF0145 enhances perfused tissues, including vascular tumors, at gray-scale, real-time ultrasonography and enhances the liver.
Parameter estimation for multiphase reservoir models on hypercubes

Abstract This paper discusses the parallel implementation of a numerical algorithm for estimating reservoir parameter distributions on hypercube parallel computers. The algorithm can be used to identify the reservoir absolute permeability distributions by matching the computed pressure values with measured pressure values obtained at observation wells (history matching). We show that the use of multilevel grids in nested iterations improves the quality of the identified permeability distributions significantly. The whole parameter identification process is very computationally intensive since a group of coupled nonlinear PDEs and a regularized least-square problem must be solved repeatedly with different parameter values at many time steps. The block SOR scheme with red and black ordering and parallel orthogonal transformation schemes were implemented to solve the algebraic equations resulting from the discretization of the governing PDEs. High speed-up has been achieved by exploring parallelism and minimizing internode communications.
A Brave New World in the Life Sciences

THE BREADTH OF BIOLOGICAL THREATS IS MUCH BROADER THAN COMMONLY THOUGHT AND WILL CONTINUE TO EXPAND.
Elliptic curve primality tests for Fermat and related primes

Abstract We use elliptic curves with complex multiplication to develop primality tests for Fermat primes and for primes of the form 3 2 l − 3 2 l − 1 + 1 and 2 2 l − 2 2 l − 1 + 1 .
Predictors of Bacteremia in Febrile Children 3 to 36 Months of Age

Purpose To develop an improved model for the prediction of bacteremia in young febrile children. Methods A retrospective review was performed on patients 3 to 36 months of age seen in a children's hospital emergency department between December 1995 and September 1997 who had a complete blood count and blood culture ordered as part of their regular care. Exclusion criteria included current use of antibiotics or any immunodeficient state. Clinical and laboratory parameters reviewed included age, gender, race, weight, temperature, presence of focal bacterial infection, white blood cell count (WBC), polymorphonuclear cell count (PMN), band count, and absolute neutrophil count (ANC). Logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with bacteremia, defined as growth of a pathogen in a blood culture. The model that was developed was then validated on a second dataset consisting of febrile patients 3 to 36 months of age collected from a second children's hospital (validation set). Results There were 633 patients in the derivation set (46 bacteremic) and 9465 patients in the validation set (149 bacteremic). The mean age of patients in the derivation and validation sets were 15.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.2-16.5) and 16.6 months (95% CI: 16.5-16.8), respectively; the mean temperatures were 39.1 degrees C (95% CI: 39. 0-39.2) and 39.8 degrees C (95% CI: 39.7-39.8); 56% were male in the derivation set and 55% male in the validation set. Predictors of bacteremia identified by logistic regression included ANC, WBC, PMN, temperature, and gender. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis showed similar performance of ANC and WBC as predictors of bacteremia. When placed into a multivariate logistic regression model, band count was not significantly associated with bacteremia. Information regarding focal infection was available for 572 patients in the derivation set. The percentage of patients diagnosed with bacteremia with a focal bacterial infection was not significantly different from the percentage who had bacteremia without a focal bacterial infection (16/200 vs 30/372). Based on this dataset, a logistic regression formula was developed that could be used to develop a unique risk value for each patient based on temperature, gender, and ANC. When the final model was applied to the validation set, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) constructed from these data indicated that the model retained good predictive value (AUC for the derivation vs validation data =.8348 vs 0.8221, respectively). Conclusions Use of the formulas derived here allows the clinician to estimate a child's risk for bacteremia based on temperature, ANC, and gender. This approach offers a useful alternative to predictions based on fever and WBC alone.bacteremia, detection, white blood cell.
Magnetized plasma microfield studies by molecular dynamics simulation

Abstract Ionized radiators and charged perturbers in a hot, dense plasma undergo cyclotron motion and experience the motional Stark effect in the presence of an external magnetic field. In this paper, we consider a magnetized two-body radiating system and indicate how the lineshape can be modified by an intense magnetic field (e.g. non-uniform magnetic fields, Doppler-Stark coupling, etc.) We then focus specifically on quasistatic properties and present results based on simulations, using one-component ion-quasiparticle molecular dynamics, of a hot dense plasma in an external magnetic field. Results are presented for the three generalized microfields p(ϵ), PB(ϵ), and ℘(ϵ) which are the B = 0 microfield, the microfield including ion cyclotron motion, and the total microfield, including the motional Stark field, respectively. We have considered short-pulse laser experiments, white dwarf atmospheres, and gas bag experiments.
Short-Course Antimicrobial Therapy of Respiratory Tract Infections

Accumulating evidence suggests that short-course ( /=80%) of patients. However, more research is clearly needed in the subpopulations of children <2 years of age and in those with unresponsive/recurrent disease, since short-course therapy may not be successful in the majority of these patients. In sinusitis, most short-course therapy data have involved maxillary disease in adult patients. Regimens have included 3 days of azithromycin or cotrimoxazole (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) or 5 days of cefpodoxime, telithromycin, gatifloxacin, gemifloxacin or amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. Preliminary results are encouraging but more study is clearly needed, especially in the paediatric population. In acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, short-course therapy with a variety of cephalosporins, second-generation fluoroquinolones and advanced generation macrolides/azalides/ketolides are all reasonable alternatives to traditional 7- to 14-day therapies. Cost containment in antimicrobial therapy should involve consideration of short-course therapy in the management of the most common types of respiratory tract infections.
Incentivizing fruit and vegetable purchases among participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

Objective In 2009, the US Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) began to provide participants with cash-value vouchers to purchase fruits and vegetables (US 6 for children per month). The present paper assesses the potential effects of the new WIC incentives on fruit and vegetable purchases among WIC households in two New England states. Design A pre–post assessment of changes in fruit and vegetable purchases after the WIC revisions in generalized estimating equation models. Setting Scanner data on grocery purchases from a regional supermarket chain in New England, USA. Subjects WIC-participating households (n 2137) that regularly shopped at the chain during January–September 2009 and January–September 2010. Results After the WIC revisions, purchases of fresh and frozen vegetables increased in volume by 17·5 % and 27·8 %, respectively. The biggest improvements were observed for fresh fruit, an increase of 28·6 %, adding almost a kilogram of fresh fruits per household per month. WIC households spent three times more of their WIC vouchers on purchasing fresh fruits than fresh vegetables. The magnitudes of substitution effects were relatively small: between 4 % (fresh fruit) and 13 % (canned vegetables) of the amounts purchased in 2009 with non-WIC funds were replaced by purchases made using WIC vouchers in 2010. Conclusions The provision of fruit and vegetable benefits in the revised WIC food packages increased overall purchases of fruits and vegetables among WIC-participating households in New England. Efforts to encourage consumption of fruits and vegetables by people receiving federal food assistance are paying off.
Cultural Awareness through Biographies.

tural diversity and to move beyond their narrow, stereotypical views. Most stu dents come from small, rural towns or suburbs, and they are middle class and white. Very few have grown up in an urban setting, and they have had virtually no experience with children from another ethnic background or who speak another language. Thus, many are not aware of how their own thinking and attitudes are rooted in their white, middle class cul ture. This restricted environment makes it
Faculty and internships. A match made in heaven

An internship program was developed for new graduate nurses hired in the critical care area. Program goals included facilitating growth and development of 21 newly graduated BSN nurses to prepare them to care for a critically ill adult. The program design included the support and guidance of university faculty for a 3-month period. The program content included planned observational, didactic, and clinical precept experiences. Interns were evaluated according to clinical logs, didactic examinations, and preceptor assessments. At completion of the program, all interns were hired by the participating hospital. Two interns elected to take medical-surgical positions. The remaining interns accepted positions within the critical care and "step-down" areas.
Features of the translocation of protein kinase C in neutrophils stimulated with the chemotactic peptide f-Met-Leu-Phe*

The effects of f-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) on neutrophils, i.e. elevation of the levels of cytoplasmic Ca2+ and intramembranous diacylglycerol, would be expected to be accompanied by translocation of protein kinase C (PKC) to the plasmalemma. However, fMLP-induced PKC translocation could hitherto be demonstrated only when cells were additionally treated with cytochalasin B. We show here that treatment of guinea pig neutrophils with fMLP alone does lead to a significant PKC translocation which can be inhibited by pertussis toxin. The translocation can be detected only if the incubation is terminated within 30 sec after addition of fMLP, the termination is rapid, e.g. by application of a freeze clamp-technique, and the concentration of Ca2+ chelators in the buffer used for lysing the cells is low.
Stressful Childhood Experiences and Clinical Outcomes in People with Serious Mental Illness: a Gender Comparison in a Clinical Psychiatric Sample

Objective: This study examines stressful childhood experiences (SCE) including childhood abuse and family context in a cohort of 183 people diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) and compares gender specific rates of SCE and clinical outcome variables. Methods: 111 men and 72 women with SMI were interviewed regarding SCE and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, dissociative symptoms, risk for self-harm, and adult re-victimization. Results: Both genders endorse high rates of SCE. Cumulative SCE (the sum of seven SCE) are linked to increased levels of all four outcome variables after adjusting for demographic factors. Conclusions: The study addresses the need to assess cumulative SCE in a population with SMI and its effects on clinical outcomes in both genders.
Chymotrypsinlike activity of some intestinal bacteria.

Some tests of exocrine pancreatic function are based on the estimation of intestinal chymotryptic activity by using specific substrates such asN-benzoyl-l-tyrosyl-PABA (BT-P). In this study the action of a number of bacteria isolated from human or monkey intestines on BT-P was investigated. The monkeys studied had an intestinal flora closely resembling that of man. Except forBacteroides, Proteus vulgaris No. 73,Proteus morgani No. 202, andPseudomonas aeruginosa No. 76, significant splitting of BT-P did not take place when the common enteric microorganisms were tested. It was concluded that with the possible exception of bacterial overgrowth of the small bowel, microbial chymotryptic activity is not of importance.
Effects of Elevated Temperature on Growth and Survival of Smallmouth Bass

Abstract The long-term effects (November 1977-October 1978) of elevated temperature on smallmouth bass, Micropterus dolomieui (age 0+ at stocking) were evaluated in outdoor channels located on the Tennessee River in Alabama, the southern limit of the native range of this species. Temperature treatments, with three channels per treatment, were at the ambient regime of the Tennessee River and 3, 6, and 9 C above ambient. Actual temperatures ranged from 1 to 30 C in the ambient channels and from 10 to 38 C in the +9 C channels. Under extreme summer conditions there was a 10% (by volume) refuge zone of 35 C water in the +9 C channels. Mean annual survival rates ranged from 84% in the +3 C regime to 92% in the +6 C regime; survival was 87% in both the ambient and +9 C treatments. Substantial growth occurred throughout the range 20 to 32 C. After 322 days, net biomasses of smallmouth bass in the four thermal regimes were not significantly different (range, 85–105 kg/hectare). Reproduction at age I occurred in a...
Secretion and excretion of human chorionic gonadotropin during early pregnancy

Objective To characterize the profiles of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secretion in blood and its subsequent excretion in urine during conceptive cycles that ended in successful pregnancy and in spontaneous abortion. Design A prospective study. Setting University fertility clinic and research laboratories. Patient(s) Healthy, spontaneously ovulating women with regular menses, no history of infertility, and either no male partner or an azoospermic partner. Intervention(s) Blood and urine samples were collected daily from 63 spontaneously ovulating women during 167 cycles of artificial insemination (AI) with donor semen; hCG concentrations were measured in blood and urine, and luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations were measured in blood by immunoassay. Main outcome measure(s) Fecundity, the day of ovulation, the day of hCG detection, and the concentration of hCG on the day of detection in blood and urine. Result(s) In 62 conceptions detected, 14 resulted in clinical spontaneous abortion (CAB) and 8 resulted in early pregnancy loss (EPL). When successful pregnancies and pregnancy losses were compared, no significant differences existed between the days of hCG appearance in serum or in urine, the concentrations of hCG on the day of detection, or the incremental change in hCG concentration on the day of detection. Conclusion(s) These data validate the use of urinary hCG as a biomarker for assessing peri-implantation pregnancy events.
The Catalytic Degradation and Oxidation of Cellulose

The thermal decomposition products of cellulose treated with various organophos phorus compounds were investigated.The function of a fire retardant in cellulose is to favor the production of carbon and water rather than flammable tarry products which are formed in the thermal de gradation of untreated cellulose. Furthermore, if the oxidation of the charred residue is directed toward the production of carbon monoxide rather than carbon dioxide, it is believed that the heat produced in this reaction would not be sufficient to sustain an afterglow when the flame has been removed.A comparison was made between the amounts of char and tar produced and the efficiency of the retardant used. A correlation between the carbon monoxide-carbon dioxide ratio and the afterglow exhibited by treated cotton was made.The results obtained support the theory that fire-resistant cellulose produces less flammable tars and more carbon monoxide than untreated cellulose. However, no significant differentiation as to the relative e...
Wessen Fehler? Aussagen der Attributionstheorie zur Relevanz von Schuld in Anbieter-Nachfrager-Beziehungen

Kunden erwerben Produkte, wenn sie sich davon einen Nutzen versprechen. In Transaktionen mit Anbietern treten jedoch auch Fehler auf, die sich auf die weitere Beziehung nachteilig auswirken. Unternehmen ergreifen daher Masnahmen, um die Haufigkeit des Auftretens und die Tragweite von Fehlern fur den Kunden zu verringern. Sofern dennoch Fehler auftreten, werden sie im Nachhinein beseitigt. Weiterhin senken Anbieter ubertriebene Erwartungen der Kunden auf ein realistisches Niveau. Eine vierte, in der Marketingliteratur bislang noch wenig erforschte Moglichkeit fur Anbieter besteht darin, Einfluss darauf zu nehmen, auf welche Ursache der Kunde einen Fehler zuruckfuhrt. Wir ubertragen Aussagen von Attributions- und von Gerechtigkeitstheorien auf Fehler in Anbieter-Kunden-Beziehungen. Fur diesen Anwendungsfall wird ein attributionstheoretisches Dreieck entwickelt, welches Fehlerursachen der Kunden-, Anbieter- und externen Domane zuordnet. Die Theorien dienen dazu, drei Ziele fur Anbieter abzuleiten und zu testen, damit sich die Kundenreaktion auf einen Fehler fur den Anbieter weniger nachteilig auswirkt. Ferner stellen wir in der Literatur diskutierte Masnahmen vor, mit denen Anbieter diese Ziele verfolgen konnen.
Computing tropical linear spaces

We define and study the cyclic Bergman fan of a matroid M, which is a simplicial polyhedral fan supported on the tropical linear space T(M) of M and is amenable to computational purposes. It slightly refines the nested set structure on T(M), and its rays are in bijection with flats of M which are either cyclic flats or singletons. We give a fast algorithm for calculating it, making some computational applications of tropical geometry now viable. Our C++ implementation, called TropLi, and a tool for computing vertices of Newton polytopes of A-discriminants, are both available online.
A matched impedance, electrostatic approach to hydrophone design

A new type of acoustically transparent capacitor hydrophone is described and demonstrated. The hydrophone is built with a dielectric material between the capacitor plates which is similar in acoustic impedance to that of water. A theoretical model of this matched impedance type of capacitor hydrophone is developed and compared with a theory of air-filled capacitor hydrophones. It is shown that the acoustic sensitivity of the matched impedance hydrophone is −2Vp/β V/pascal where Vp is the polarizing voltage across the capacitor and β is the compressibility modulus of the dielectric material. Unlike the earlier air-filled types of capacitor hydrophones, the sensitivity is found to be independent of frequency and of parameters determining the capacitance of the hydrophone. A measured sensitivity of −148dB re 1 V/pascal and a sensitivity threshold at 2·5×102 pascal are reported. Amplitude transmission ratios greater than 96% demonstrate the acoustical transparency of the device. The matched impedance approach to hydrophone design could result in devices which would share with acousto-optic methods the ability to measure acoustic fields virtually without disturbing the measured fields and without losing instantaneous phase information.
Cervical Spine Instability: Clearance Using Dynamic Fluoroscopy

Abstract Purpose Cle aring the cervical spine in a multiply injured trauma patient is a dilemma because clinical examination for ligamentous instability cannot be performed, and the standard cervical spine series can miss isolated ligamentous injury. Static flexion/extension views are unsafe, as the obtunded patient has no protective reflexes and cannot complain of pain during the exam. This results in a need for prolonged spinal immobilization and its attendant complications. Dynamic fluoroscopy may be useful in the detection of otherwise occult injuries. Methods We performed a prospective study of a cervical spine clearance algorithm incorporating dynamic fluoroscopy with flexion/extension views. Inpatient records over a 3-year period were reviewed. Patient demographic data, results of cervical spine films and fluoroscopic exams, interventions based on positive results, and missed injuries were recorded. Results One hundred ten patients with normal spine plain films underwent dynamic fluoroscopy with flexion and extension views of the cervical spine. The average Glasgow Coma Score was 9.2 and the average revised Trauma Score was 9.5. Nine patients had evidence of cervical instability on exam. Six of these were deemed stable by the orthopedic or neurosurgical spine consultants, and these patients had their hard collars removed. One patient with positive findings had cervical immobilization with hard collar continued, a second had halo placement, and a third underwent spinal fusion for atlanto-occipital disassociation. No patients undergoing dynamic fluoroscopy were subsequently found to have missed cervical spine injury. Conclusions With our protocol, 3 patients had significant cervical instability that would have been missed without dynamic fluoroscopy. Given the significant medical and legal ramifications of missed cervical spine injury and the benefits of early removal of cervical collars, more widespread use of dynamic fluoroscopy of the cervical spine is warranted.
Distribution and Incorporation of Radioactive Phosphorus in the Douglas-Fir Beetle

The distribution of P32 in different parts of the body of Douglas- fir beetle, Dendroctonus pseudotsuffae Hopkins, and its incorporation into phosphorylated intermediates was studied. Most phosphate esters which are known to be intermediates of glycolysis were found to be present in the beetle.
Outcomes after escalation of infliximab therapy in ambulatory patients with moderately active ulcerative colitis.

Background Infliximab (IFX) therapy escalation during maintenance treatment occurs frequently in clinical practice in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Outcomes for these patients have not been described.
Modeling and forecasting hospital patient movements: Univariate and multiple time series approaches

Abstract The purpose of this paper is two-fold: it recognizes the importance of modeling and forecasting as a future-oriented decision-making process in the field of health care by proposing to model and forecast monthly patient movements in individual hospitals by means of the Box-Jenkins univariate and Tiao-Box multiple time series approaches; and it attempts to determine the choice between the univariate method and the multivariate approach in the case of hospital patient data. The forecasting performance of the resulting models is evaluated against the Holt-Winters exponential smoothing model using the mean squared error, mean absolute deviation, and mean absolute percentage error, for five non-overlapping time periods. The test results suggest that the proper choice of time series techniques to be applied to hospital admissions and discharges has an important and direct bearing on the reliability of forecasting results. Therefore, the practical implications and usefulness of time series techniques and models are discussed.
Studies of DC current-driven switching in Ni84Fe16/N/Ni84Fe16 magnetic nanopillars with NCu or Cu(Pt)

Abstract We provide new data on current-driven switching in Permalloy (Py=Ni84Fe16) based nanopillars at room temperature and 4.2 K that confirm and extend previously published work. We present data for both uncoupled and antiferromagnetically coupled samples. The latter confirm prior results for Co/Cu/Co. We show that inserting sufficiently strong spin-flip-scattering into the Cu layer eliminates hysteretic current-driven switching. This result may have ramifications for understanding current-driven switching.
Structural Properties of Ammonium Perchlorate Compressed to 5.6 GPa

The effect of pressure to 5.6 GPa on the structure of ammonium perchlorate (AP, NH4ClO4) was investigated at room temperature using X-ray diffraction studies and IR and Raman spectroscopy. Two phase transitions were observed. Under hydrostatic conditions, the first transition starts at about 0.9 GPa with the appearance of a few new diffraction peaks and a discontinuity in the pressure-induced shifts of certain Raman frequencies. This transition is most likely a molecular change in AP due to “freezing” of freely rotating NH4 units, similar to effects at low temperature. The second transition starts at 2.9 GPa with a drop in diffraction intensity followed by a new pattern of diffraction peaks by 3.0 GPa. This transition is also characterized by another discontinuity in the Raman shifts and the emergence of two new Raman modes. The phase above 3.0 GPa is stable to 5.6 GPa. The P−V data to 0.9 GPa obtained from X-ray diffraction measurements were used to calculate a bulk modulus of 15.2 ± 0.3 GPa for the ambi...
Knockdown of lung phosphodiesterase 2A attenuates alveolar inflammation and protein leak in a two-hit mouse model of acute lung injury

Phosphodiesterase 2A (PDE2A) is stimulated by cGMP to hydrolyze cAMP, a potent endothelial barrier-protective molecule. We previously found that lung PDE2A contributed to a mouse model of ventilato...
The multiple active enzyme species of γ-aminobutyric acid aminotransferase are not isozymes

Abstract Purified γ-aminobutyric acid aminotransferase (GABA-AT) from pig brain under certain conditions gave a single band on 12% NaDodSO 4 –PAGE, whereas two or three distinct bands were observed on 7.5% native PAGE. These multiple active species were isolated by 5% preparative gel electrophoresis and characterized by N-terminal sequencing and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. The results indicate that these active enzyme species are not GABA-AT isozymes in pig brain, but are the products of proteolysis of the N-terminus of GABA-AT, differing by 3, 7, and 12 residues from the full sequence (as deduced from the cDNA), respectively. Conditions for obtaining the nontruncated GABA-AT were found, and the potential cause for the proteolysis was determined. It was found that Na 2 EDTA inhibits the N-terminal cleavage during GABA-AT preparation from pig brain. The presence of Triton X-100 in the homogenization step is partially responsible for this proteolysis, and Mn 2+ strongly enhances the protease activity, suggesting the presence of a membrane-bound matrix metalloprotease that causes the N-terminal cleavage.
txt bus: wait time information on demand

This paper describes an SMS based text messaging system that delivers real time bus information to users' mobile phones. Many public transit systems provide schedule and fare information on their web sites, and a small subset of these have recently experimented with bus stop countdown displays. In contrast, an SMS based delivery system allows users to receive real time updates wherever they may be. Given that lack of information is an often cited barrier to transit use, particularly among "choice riders" (i.e. those who have access to other forms of transit), such a solution also creates an opportunity for transit organizations to improve their services, thus promoting ridership [6].
A shock-tube measurement of the SiO/E 1 Sigma + - X 1 Sigma +/ transition moment

The sum of the squares of the electronic transition moments for the (E 1 Sigma +) - (X 1 Sigma +) band system of SiO has been determined from absorption measurements conducted in the reflected-shock region of a shock tube. The test gas produced by shock-heating a mixture of SiCl4, N2O, and Ar, and the spectra were recorded photographically in the 150-230-nm wavelength range. The values of the sum of the squares were determined by comparing the measured absorption spectra with those produced by a line-by-line synthetic spectrum calculation. The value so deduced at an r-centroid value of 3.0 bohr was 0.86 + or - 0.10 atomic unit.
An adaptive concurrency control algorithm (abstract)

Correctness of concurrent executions of multiple database transactions is assured by concurrency control techniques. Performance analyses, e.g., [Agr85], show that optimistic concurrency control techniques perform more efficiently than pessimistic techniques when there is low contention for the data and low resource utilization. Otherwise pessimistic techniques perform better. Because the designer of a database system can rarely predict data contention and resource utilization, it is desirable that a database system adaptively select a concurrency control technique at runtime.We present an algorithm for partitioning the collection of active database transactions into a set of clusters. The partitioning algorithm guarantees that there are no data conflicts between transactions to distinct clusters. Different concurrency control techniques can be applied in distinct clusters. Our algorithm uses the number of transactions in a cluster as a measure of data contention. Transactions in newly formed clusters are handled by an optimistic scheduler. When the number of transactions in a cluster exceeds a certain threshold, the cluster becomes pessimistic. Such a cluster's current transactions complete, and then newly entering transactions can begin, managed by a pessimistic scheduler.We have designed data structures to support the efficient maintenance of clusters. We have also begun to develop a theory of correct cluster configurations. We are undertaking a simulation study to compare the performances of pessimistic techniques, optimistic techniques, and our adaptive approach.
Neutrinos and cosmic rays

Abstract In this paper we review the status of the search for high-energy neutrinos from outside the solar system and discuss the implications for the origin and propagation of cosmic rays. Connections between neutrinos and gamma-rays are also discussed.
The evolution of optimal linear polyfractal arrays using genetic algorithms

Recently, in order to successfully combine the positive attributes of both periodic and random arrays into one design, a novel class of arrays, known as fractal-random arrays, has been introduced. In addition, several researchers have successfully used genetic algorithms, robust global optimization techniques based on natural selection, to find solutions to complex array layout problems. This paper introduces a type of nature-based design process that applies a specially formulated genetic algorithm to evolve optimal layouts of an important subset of fractal-random arrays, which we call polyfractal arrays. Also, this paper discusses how the underlying self-similar properties of polyfractal arrays can be exploited to increase the speed of the associated array factor calculations. This speed increase dramatically reduces the time required for the genetic algorithm to converge thereby making it possible to effectively evolve optimal array configurations which are much larger than has been previously possible. Moreover, the fractal-random properties of these polyfractal arrays are shown to provide substantially wider bandwidth performance than their conventional counterparts. Finally, several design examples of genetically optimized linear polyfractal arrays with narrow beamwidths, improved sidelobe suppression and wide bandwidths are presented.
A Tool for Deep Semantic Encoding of Narrative Texts

We have developed a novel, publicly available annotation tool for the semantic encoding of texts, especially those in the narrative domain. Users can create formal propositions to represent spans of text, as well as temporal relations and other aspects of narrative. A built-in natural-language generation component regenerates text from the formal structures, which eases the annotation process. We have run collection experiments with the tool and shown that non-experts can easily create semantic encodings of short fables. We present this tool as a stand-alone, reusable resource for research in semantics in which formal encoding of text, especially in a narrative form, is required.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Biology and Potential Applications

Adipose tissue is derived from the mesoderm during embryonic development and is present in every mammalian species, located throughout the body. Adipose tissue serves as an endocrine organ, functioning to maintain energy metabolism through the storage of lipids. While two types of adipose tissue exist (brown and white), white adipose yields the commonly studied adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs). Adipose-derived stem cells provide a promising future in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Due to their wide availability and ability to differentiate into other tissue types of the mesoderm—including bone, cartilage, muscle, and adipose—ASCs may serve a wide variety of applications. Adipose stem cells have been utilized in studies addressing osteoarthritis, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and soft tissue regeneration and reconstruction after mastectomy and facial repair. Various delivery systems and scaffolds to incorporate adipose stem cells have also been established. Adipose stem cells have been studied in vitro and in vivo. Much information in vitro has been obtained on adipose stem cell potency and biology as a function of donor gender, body mass index, and anatomical location. Further in vitro studies have examined the various cell populations within the heterogeneous population within the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) from which ASCs are obtained. While many animal models are used to investigate adipose tissue, preclinical in vivo experiments are most widely conducted in the mouse model. Common analyses of animal studies utilizing ASCs include pre-labeling cells and immunostaining cells.
Information Versus Meaning Toward a Further Understanding of Early Adolescent Rejection

The cultural analysis that informs Marten's "Visibility and Vulnerability" article can neither be simply expanded by adding more variables nor simply assimilated to a framework that neglects meaning. The focus of the cultural analysis advocated here is the delineation of meanings used by cultural participants to shape and evaluate their own and their peers' actions. Such an analysis emphasizes emic categories as openings to understanding rejection phenomena. Knowing about more variables will not necessarily further understanding of the meaning of rejection to early adolescents.
Performance Improvements in the Relativistic Magnetron: The Effect of DC Field Perturbations

The effect of using a shaped or transparent cathode to enhance key performance parameters in the Michigan magnetron, such as output power, power efficiency, and mode purity, was examined using a massively parallel electromagnetic particle-in-cell code improved concurrent electromagnetic particle-in-cell. In simulations, we saw a dramatic increase in the range of magnetic field and input voltage over which the magnetron functions, an increase in output power, an increase in efficiency, an elimination of mode competition, and immediate start-up for both the shaped and transparent cathodes relative to the standard cathode. These simulations also revealed that the mechanism that is responsible for the improved performance that accompanies the transparent cathode may not be RF-azimuthal-field penetration but rather perturbations in the "dc" field resulting from the design of the novel cathodes themselves.
A canonical formulation for analyzing multielement unstable resonators

A simple but general formulation for the unified analysis of many different varieties of unstable optical resonators is obtained by expressing the round-trip Huygens' integral for the resonator in terms of the round-trip paraxial ray matrix. Complicated multielement resonators, ring resonators, and unstable resonators with variable-reflectivity output mirrors are thereby all reduced to a single equivalent collimated-beam diffraction problem. Essential assumptions in the analysis are that all elements in the resonator obey paraxial ray theory and that there is only one significant output coupler or limiting aperture per round trip inside the resonator. The only parameters needed to describe an arbitrary unstable resonator in this formulation are the round-trip magnification M and either the equivalent Fresnel number N eq or else an equivalent collimated Fresnel number N_{c} = [2M^{2}/(M^{2} - 1)] N_{eq} , plus for variable-reflectivity mirrors a specification of the mirror reflectivity profile.
Tissue 1,2-glycol localization with phenyl iodosoacetate.

A solution of phenyl iodosoacetate in glacial acetic acid is capable of splitting the 1,2-glycol linkage in tissue sections to produce a histological picture with leucofuchsin resembling that obtained under similar conditions with lead tetraacetate.