cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transitional Cell Bladder Carcinoma with Presentation Mimicking Ovarian Carcinoma

In the case described here, the patient's initial presentation suggested ovarian carcinoma. She had recurrent ascites, a pelvic mass, elevated CA-125, and extensive peritoneal carcinomatosis with transitional cell histology. The presence of hematuria prompted a cystoscopy, which revealed the true site of origin to be the urinary bladder rather than ovaries. This presentation is extremely rare for bladder cancer. Since transitional cell tumors from the bladder have a much worse prognosis than those of ovarian origin, it is important to identify the primary site correctly. Therefore, cystoscopy is essential for patients with hematuria, and should be considered in cases of apparent primary peritoneal carcinoma with transitional cell histology.
Transmission of solitons through random media

Abstract The one-dimensional nonlinear Schrodinger (NLS) equation with a random potential function is used to model pulses in very long low dispersion optical fiber with random fluctuation. When the initial pulse in a soliton solution of the unperturbed NLS equation, we show that an approximate theory can be developed for the effects of the fluctuations by using an equivalent particle method. Results of direct numerical simulations are presented. Comparisons of the approximate theory and the direct numerical solutions indicate that the theory is accurate enough to use for finding statistics about the transmission of the soliton-like pulses through the fluctuations. Computations provide evidence for the existence of nonlinear localization, though with a large localization length.
A multi-block multigrid method for the solution of the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations for three-dimensional flows

A multi-block multigrid method for the solution of the three-dimensional Euler and Navier-Stokes equations is presented. The basic flow solver is a cell-vertex method which employs central-difference spatial approximations and Runge-Kutta time stepping. The use of local time stepping, implicit residual smoothing, multigrid techniques, and variable-coefficient numerical smoothing results in an efficient and robust scheme. The multi-block strategy places the block loop within the Runge-Kutta loop such that accuracy and convergence are not affected by block boundaries. This has been verified by comparing the results of one- and two-block calculations in which the two-block grid is generated by splitting the one-block grid. Results are presented for both Euler and Navier-Stokes computations of wings and wing-fuselage combinations.
Soil-vegetation relationships in a tabonuco forest community in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico

Soil-vegetation irelationlships wvere exaiiinied in a taboniuco forest communlity in eastern Puerto Rico using caolnolical corresponldenlce anialysis. Ca and pH were strongly correlated with the first ordination axis (r = 0.84 and 0.76 iespectively), -while Mg anid Na were cor-related with the secon-d axis (r = 0.65 and 0.64, respectixely); other soil variables wvere not signlificantly r elated to the first two axes. Four previotusly identified soil ser-ies corresponided well wvith the ordinlation, an-d statistically signlifican-t differences in soil variables were found amllon-g the soil series. Doiiiinan-t can-opy tree species Daciyodes excelsa and AIanilAkara bidetntata -were negatively associated with the first ordin-ation axis anid positively associated with dry soils havin-g low coilcen-trations of Ca ancl Mg an-d low pH. The palm Pr-estoea mtiontanlaa was positively associated wvith the first axis and with wvet soils havinig high-i conicen-trations of Ca aiid Mog aid higller pH values. Another caniopy species .Sloatiea bet-etiatna was associated with the secon-d oidination axis anid with lower slope positionls havin-g higlher con-cenitr-ations of Mg.
Predicting habitat use and trophic interactions of Eurasian ruffe, round gobies, and zebra mussels in nearshore areas of the Great Lakes.

The Laurentian Great Lakes have been subject to numerous introductions of nonindigenous species, including two recent benthic fish invaders, Eurasian ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernuus) and round gobies (Neogobius melanostomus), as well as the benthic bivalve, zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha). These three exotic species, or “exotic triad,” may impact nearshore benthic communities due to their locally high abundances and expanding distributions. Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine (1) whether ruffe and gobies may compete for habitat and invertebrate food in benthic environments, and (2) if zebra mussels can alter those competitive relationships by serving as an alternate food source for gobies. In laboratory mesocosms, both gobies and ruffe preferred cobble and macrophyte areas to open sand either when alone or in sympatry. In a 9-week goby–ruffe competition experiment simulating an invasion scenario with a limited food base, gobies grew faster than did ruffe, suggesting that gobies may be competitively superior at low resource levels. When zebra mussels were added in a short-term experiment, the presence or absence of mussels did not affect goby or ruffe growth, as few zebra mussels were consumed. This finding, along with other laboratory evidence, suggests that gobies may prefer soft-bodied invertebrate prey over zebra mussels. Studies of interactions among the “exotic triad”, combined with continued surveillance, may help Great Lakes fisheries managers to predict future population sizes and distributions of these invasive fish, evaluate their impacts on native food webs, and direct possible control measures to appropriate species.
Strategy for the reduction of stroke incidence in cardiac surgical patients

Atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta (AAA) and severe carotid artery disease are risk factors for stroke in cardiac surgical patients. Twelve hundred of a consecutive series of 1,334 patients 50 years of age or older having a cardiac operation were screened for the presence of AAA by intraoperative ultrasonographic scanning and for the presence of carotid artery occlusive disease (791 of 798 patients > or = 65 years of age and younger symptomatic patients) by carotid duplex scanning. Coronary artery disease was present in 88% of the patients. Patients with moderate or severe AAA (n = 231; 19.3% of the total) were treated by ascending aortic replacement (n = 27) or by modified, less extensive techniques (n = 168) to avoid the atherosclerotic areas. Thirty-three patients had combined carotid endarterectomy and cardiac operation. Thirty-day mortality and stroke rates for the 1,200 patients were 4.0% and 1.6%, respectively. The stroke rate was low (1.1%) among the 969 patients with no or mild AAA. It was zero among 27 patients with moderate or severe AAA who had ascending aortic replacement and among the 33 patients who had carotid endarterectomy. The stroke rates were higher for 111 patients with moderate or severe ascending aortic disease who had only minor interventions (6.3%) and for 16 patients with severe carotid artery disease who did not have carotid endarterectomy (18.7%). Screening for AAA and carotid artery disease and aggressive surgical treatment of moderate or severe AAA and severe or symptomatic carotid artery disease appears to reduce the frequency of stroke in older cardiac surgical patients.
Strain evolution in coherent Ge/Si islands

Strain evolution of coherent Ge islands on Si(001) is measured using a newly developed transmission electron microscopy technique based on two-beam dark-field strain imaging. The strain measurements show that a metastable Ge island shape is involved in the shape transition between pyramids and domes; this shape is more readily observed for growth at 550 than 600 degree sign C because of the slower rate at which islands cross the kinetic barrier between shapes. The strain relaxation changes discontinuously between pyramids and domes, indicating that the underlying shape transition is first order. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society.
Ethical implications of implantable radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags in humans

This article reviews the use of implantable radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags in humans, focusing on the VeriChip (VeriChip Corporation, Delray Beach, FL) and the associated VeriMed patient identification system. In addition, various nonmedical applications for implanted RFID tags in humans have been proposed. The technology offers important health and nonhealth benefits, but raises ethical concerns, including privacy and the potential for coercive implantation of RFID tags in individuals. A national discussion is needed to identify the limits of acceptable use of implantable RFID tags in humans before their use becomes widespread and it becomes too late to prevent misuse of this useful but ethically problematic technology.
Developing Methods for Harvesting Rosy Red Fathead Minnow Eggs

Abstract We evaluated the effectiveness of different types of spawning substrates in retaining the eggs of rosy red fathead minnow Pimephales promelas, the potential substrate preference of the fish, and the effectiveness of different concentrations of sodium sulfite for detaching eggs from substrates without affecting egg survival. Egg adherence was determined by placing replicate sections of four types of conveyor belt material of varying roughness into a pool stocked with fathead minnow. A screened tray was suspended below each substrate to catch the eggs that did not adhere. Substrate preference was evaluated by following a similar protocol, but only three males were stocked (equal to the number of replicates of each substrate). To test the efficacy of sodium sulfite in removing eggs, substrates with eggs were placed in 0.0, 1.5, and 3.0% solutions and uniformly agitated. The effect of exposure time and egg age was tested by exposing eggs to a 1.5% solution of sodium sulfite for 0 (control), 5, 10, 15...
A Qualitative Model to Describe the Microchipping Wear Mode in Ceramic Rollers

A two-dimensional model of surface cracks near a Hertzian contact is developed. The cracks are allowed to curve and the optimal path of crack propagation is determined based on the maximum energy release rate criterion. The results indicate a microchipping wear mode in ceramic rollers. Presented at the 44th Annual Meeting In Atlanta, Georgia May 1–4, 1989
A cephalometric evaluation of 8-year-old Caucasians.

Abstract 1. 1. A set of mean values for twelve commonly used cephalometric angles was obtained for 8-year-old Caucasians. 2. 2. It was shown that there was no statistical difference in two readings of a single investigator at 6-month intervals. 3. 3. There was no statistical difference readings of the same film by three investigators. 4. 4. A comparison was made between the results of cephalometric readings on thirty children at the Eastman Dental Center and on fifty children in the Iowa study. A strong statistical correlation was found between these two groups. 5. 5. When the Eastman 8-year-olds were compared to Downs' teen-age group, the younger children were found to have a smaller SNB, a smaller facial angle, a larger angle of convexity, a larger mandibular plane to FH and a relatively constant Y axis.
Use of animal models in defining efficacy of chemoprevention agents against prostate cancer.

Animal models are crucial in preclinical efficacy testing of chemoprevention agents. The most feasible, realistic, and potentially effective target for prostate cancer chemoprevention is progression f
Static control logic for microfluidic devices using pressure-gain valves

A microfluidic valve that amplifies the pressure in a fluid channel enables the realization of static microfluidic digital control logic. This in turn could enable more versatility and integration in the control of flows in ‘lab-on-a-chip’ systems.
The use of constraint-based design knowledge to improve the search for feasible designs

Abstract Design is a process of constraint identification and satisfaction. The process of constraint satisfaction is complex, because coupling between the constraints hinders the process of searching for a feasible design. This paper presents computational methods to aid designers by automatically searching for a feasible design, subject to a set of highly coupled, non-linear, equality and inequality constraints. The tools combine symbolic methods, adaptive searches (genetic algorithms and simulated annealing), and methods to incorporate knowledge of the constraints into the search process. The paper concludes with a comparison of two approaches: one using simulated annealing and one using genetic algorithms. The author found that including knowledge of the constraint space into the adaptive searches significantly improved the efficiency of the search process over the simple, untailored application of the methods.
Analysis of the Nucleation of Silver on Sodium Chloride

The data of Walton, Rhodin, and Rollins for the nucleation rate of silver on sodium chloride is analyzed using classical nucleation theory. The difference between the activation energies for desorption and surface diffusion, ΔGdes—ΔGsd, is found to be 0.3 eV, essentially independent of the value used for γ, the surface free energy of silver. The product γ3f(θ), where f(θ) is the contact angle function, is found to be 1.24×109 erg3/cm6. With γ=1140 erg/cm2, f(θ) is 0.839 and the contact angle, θ, is 119 deg. Using values of 1100 to 1600 erg/cm2 for γ results in contact angles of 133 to 75 deg. Since a Pound plot of the data produces a straight line, it is concluded that Walton's data may be interpreted by the formalism of classical nucleation theory. The radius of the critical sized nucleus, r*, is 2 to 3 A, typical of other nucleation data analyzed in this manner.
Evidence for potential bias in the Health and Activity Limitation Index as a health preference measure for persons with disabilities

Abstract Background The American public health plan Healthy People 2010 sets overall goals based on utility-linked information from the Health and Activity Limitation Index (HALex). However, little is known about how utilities measured by the HALex compare with those from established gold standard preference-based utility measures. In addition, distribution of HALex values from the general population underrepresents the experience of persons with disability, leading to uncertain interpretation of their utility values. Therefore, we sought to report the validity and interpretation of HALex scores compared to scores from a preference-based health-related quality of life measure, the Quality of Well-Being (QWB) scale. Methods A telephone survey with component measures was administered in random order. Participants consisted of 401 adults from a large Midwest metropolitan area: 302 were selected by random-digit-dial methodology and 99 were volunteers with mobility impairment extending the disability values of the sample. Multiple regression analysis predicted HALex scores from QWB scores and from demographic and self-reported health characteristics. Results QWB scores accounted for 41% of the variance in HALex scores. The addition of five demographic and health factors increased the variance explained to 63%. Scores on the QWB and HALex were similar on mid-range values and discrepant at the extremes; that is, persons with extreme HALex scores tended to have more moderate QWB scores. HALex scores were higher for white adults than predicted by their QWB scores and lower for people with chronic diseases and disabilities. Conclusion Conclusions: Utilities as measured by the HALex and QWB can differ markedly, particularly if the person is classified at either end of the spectrum of function. Of similar concern is that fact that HALex scores show a systematic bias in relationship to QWB scores depending on a person's demographic and health-related characteristics.
Lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation evoked by stimulation of the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus in ferrets

An understanding of the neural control of lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) relaxation is clin- ically relevant because transient LOS relaxations (TLOSRs) are a mechanism of acid reflux into the oesophagus. Preganglionic motor neurones innervating the LOS are localized in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV). Based on a single study in cats, it is now widely accepted that these neurones are func- tionally organized into two separate populations, such that stimulation of the caudal and rostral DMV evokes LOS relaxation and contraction, respectively. Our goal was to map the functional LOS responses to chemical stimulation in the DMV and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) of ferrets, an animal model commonly used for conscious studies on TLOSRs, and to test whether DMV-evoked LOS relaxation is mediated through hexamethonium-sensitive vagal-inhibitory pathways to the LOS. We used miniaturized manom- etry with Dentsleeve to monitor LOS and oesophageal pressures in decerebrate unanaesthetized ferrets. LOS relaxation was evoked readily in response to gastric insufflation, which shows that the vago-vagal reflex was intact in this preparation. Microinjections of l-glutamate (12.5 nmol L )1 in 25 nL) were made into the DMV from approximately ) 1.5 to + 2.0 mm relat- ive to the obex. Microinjections into the caudal () 1.5 to + 0.0 mm behind obex) and intermediate (+ 0.1 to + 1.0 mm rostral to obex) DMV both significantly decreased LOS pressure, and complete LOS relaxation was noted in 28/32 and 11/18 cases, respectively. LOS relaxation responses to DMV microinjection were highly reproducible and abolished by bilateral vagot- omy or hexamethonium (15 mg kg )1 intravenously). A nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (l-NAME 100 mg kg )1 intramuscularly) significantly increased the time taken to reach the maximal response. Increases in LOS pressure (24 ± 4 mmHg; n ¼ 3) were obtained only when stimulation sites were located equal to greater than 1.5 mm rostral to the obex. LOS relaxa- tion () 78 ± 10%; n ¼ 6) was evoked by stimulation of the NTS but not immediately outside of the NTS (11 ± 27%; n ¼ 5). We conclude that there is a very extensive population of inhibitory motor neurones in the DMV that may account for the predominant vagal- inhibitory tone in ferrets. As NTS stimulation evokes LOS relaxation and the predominant response to DMV stimulation is also LOS relaxation, this vago-vagal reflex may involve an excitatory interneurone between the NTS and DMV vagal inhibitory output.
A History of Indo-European Verb Morphology

This book explores the origin and evolution of important grammatical categories of the Indo-European verb, including the markers of person, tense, number, aspect, and mood. Its central thesis is that many of these markers can be traced to original deictic particles which were incorporated into verbal structures in order to indicate the 'hic and nunc' and various degrees of remoteness from the 'hic and nunc'. The alterations to which these deictic elements were subject are viewed here in the context of an Indo-European language very different from Brugmannian Indo-European, many features of which, it is argued, appeared only in the period of dialectal development. This book challenges numerous traditional proposals about the Indo-European verb; all reconstructions contained in it are firmly based on extant data and are consonant with established principles of linguistic change.
Qalyub virus, a member of the newly proposed Nairovirus genus (Bunyavividae).

Abstract Qalyub (QYB) virus, the prototype virus of the previously ungrouped QYB serogroup of arboviruses, has been shown by biochemical analyses of its structural polypeptides and virion RNA species to conform in broad terms to the criteria established for members of the Bunyaviridae family. QYB virus has a tripartite, single-stranded, RNA genome and three major structural proteins. The three viral RNA species each have unique sequences as shown by oligonucleotide fingerprint analyses and, from sedimentation and electrophoretic analyses, appear to have molecular weight values of 5 × 10 6 (L), 2 × 10 6 (M), and 0.7 × 10 6 (S). By comparison with the L RNA of other members of the Bunyaviridae family [see Bishop, D. H. L., and Shope, R. E., (1979) . “Comprehensive Virology,” Vol. 14, pp. 1–156. Plenum, New York], QYB L RNA is apparently 50% larger. One of the QYB virion polypeptides is unglycosylated, 53 × 10 3 daltons in size, and associated with the viral RNA. It is consequently designated N. This N protein is approximately twice the size of the N proteins of the bunyavirus or other members of the family Bunyaviridae that have been studied (see Bishop and Shope, 1979 ). The other two QYB virion polypeptides are glycosylated (GI, 75 × 10 3 ; G2, 40 × 10 3 ) and can be removed from virions by protease treatment. Intracellular, glycosylated, large polypeptides (gp115, MW 115 × 10 3 , and gp85, MW 85 × 10 3 ) are observed in QYB-infected cells, but not in purified virus preparations. From pulse-chase experiments, the large intracellular glycopolypeptides appear to be precursors of the virion glycopolypeptides. Recently, based on serologic studies, a new genus of viruses ( Nairovirus ) in the family Bunyaviridae has been proposed. It includes the tick-borne Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and Nairobi sheep disease serogroup viruses, together with the previously ungrouped Dera Ghazi Khan, QYB, and Hughes serogroup viruses [Casals, J., and Tignor, G. H. (1980). Intervirology , in press]. The biochemical data presented here on QYB virus support its inclusion in the family Bunyaviridae and indicate that, if borne out by studies of other members of these serogroups, the characteristics of the nairoviruses are different in many respects from those of viruses in other genera of the family Bunyaviridae.
The diffusivity and solubility of oxygen in liquid tin and solid silver and the diffusivity

The diffusivity and solubility of oxygen in liquid tin and solid silver in the temperature range of about 750° to 950°C (1023 to 1223 K) and the diffusivity of oxygen in solid nickel at 1393°C (1666 K) were determined using the electrochemical cell arrangement of cylindrical geometry: Liquid or Solid Metal + O (dissolved) ¦ ZrO2 + (3 to 4%)CaO ¦ Pt, air The diffusivity and solubility of oxygen in liquid tin are given by:DO(Sn) = 9.9 × 10−4 exp(−6300/RT) cm2/s (9.9 × 10−8 exp − 6300/RT m2/s) andNOS(Sn) = 1.3 × 105 exp(−30,000/RT) at. pct The diffusivity and solubility of oxygen in solid silver follow the relations:DO(Ag) = 4.9 × 10−3 exp (−11,600/RT) cm2/s ( 4.9 × 10−7 exp − 11,600/RT m2/s) andNOS(Ag) = 7.2 exp (−11,500/RT) at. pct The experimental value for the preexponential in the expression forDO(Ag) is lower than the value calculated according to Zener’s theory of interstitial diffusion by a factor of 11. The diffusivity of oxygen in solid nickel at 1393°C (1666 K) was found to be 1.3 × 10−6 cm2/s (1.3 × 10−10 m2/s).
Active Shaft Transverse Vibration Control of a Spur Gear Pair System

Most efforts to address gear noise and vibration concerns in the past have been directed at passive control approaches, such as tuning of the geared rotor system modal characteristics, damping treatment, and vibration isolation. In this paper, an alternative approach is suggested using a new active vibration control concept. Specifically, an active shaft transverse vibration control scheme is proposed, which employs a piezeoelectric stack actuator for applying control force through a redundant bearing positioned near the gear pair component. To ease the tracking of the mesh frequencies and improve the performance of the controller, an enhanced filtered-x least mean square algorithm has been developed. Results of experimental study reveal more than 10 dB of reduction in vibration level at the targeted gear mesh harmonic. The prototype is also shown to work well in controlling multiple harmonics simultaneously. A discussion of the active control hardware and software limitations is also presented.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
The reaction of carbanions with tert-butyl radicals

Abstract The SRN1 free radical chain reaction of Me3CHgCl with nitronate (−O2NC(R1)(R2)) and phenone enolate (PHC(0−)C(R1)(R2)) anions yields the C-alkylation products (Me3CC(R1)(R2)N02, PhCOC(R1)(R2)CMe3). Competitive reactions between pairs of anions demonstrate that as the basicity of the anion increases the reactivity toward Me3C at first increases and then decreases. An inverted reactivity order is also observed with phenylacetonitrile anions. In early transition state reactions, the nucleophilic character of the tert -butyl radical apparently controls the reactivity by virtue of a transition state involving transfer of the electron from radical to the LUMO of the resonance stabilized anion.
The Timing of Income Recognition in Tax Law and the Time Value of Money

The Timing of Income Recognition in Tax Law and the Time Value of Money Moshe Shekel Abingdon: Routledge-Cavendish, 2009, 327 pp., $104, ISBN 10: 0415477549 How governments should tax corporations ...
A Gersgorin-type lower bound for the smallest singular value

Abstract For an n-by-m matrix A = (aij), n ⩽ m, we show that the smallest singular value of A is bounded below by min 1⩽i⩽N |a ii |− 1 2 Σ j=1 j≠i n |a ij |+ Σ j=1 j≠i n |a ji | This improves upon two known lower bounds without increasing information requirements or complexity of calculation.
Acidogenic fermentation of corn stover

Corn stover was fermentd by anaerobic acidogenic bacteria to produce volatile (C2-C6) organic acids. Mild pretreatment with dilute alkali solutions produced a two-fold increase in fermentability. A mixture of lime and sodium carbonate was found to be a better pretreatment agent than sodium hydroxide. Methane generation was inhibited by low temperature less than or equal to 25 degrees Celcius and high solids greater than or equal to 2.5% (w/v) fermentation. Volatile acid yields of 0.5-0.55 g acetic acid equivalent/g dry ash-free (DAF) stover could be obtained in batch fermentations. Several extractants and extraction solvents for organic acids were found to be nontoxic to acidogenic fermentation. The data show that acidogenic fermentation can produce useful volatile fatty acids in high yields from a complex lignocellulosic feedstock. These fermentation are nonsterile, need no stirring, and are easy to run. Moreover, cellulose, pentosans, and other carbohydrates are directly utilized by acidogenic bacteria. Hence, acidogenic fermentation could be useful in converting biomass to chemical feedstocks and fuel.
Distributed sensor network for real time tracking

In this paper we describe our solution to a real-time distributed resource allocation application involving distributed situation assessment. The hardware configuration consists of a set of reconfigurable sensors at fixed locations, each having local processing and low-bandwidth communication capabilities with other sensor nodes. The objective is to track objects moving in the environment in real-time as best as possible, given uncertainty and constraints on sensor loads, communication, power consumption, action characteristics, and clock synchronization. Once the target is detected, the sensors must communicate and cooperate so that, within a given window of time, the data needed to triangulate the position of the target can be collected. Our solution to this problem decomposes the environment into a number of sectors, where individual sensor nodes in a sector are specialize dynamically to address different parts of the goal. We describe our solution to this problem in detail, including the high-level architecture and a number of the more interesting implementation challenges. Results and future direction are also covered.
A Reconstruction of Regional and Global Temperature for the Past 11,300 Years

Surface temperature reconstructions of the past 1500 years suggest that recent warming is unprecedented in that time. Here we provide a broader perspective by reconstructing regional and global temperature anomalies for the past 11,300 years from 73 globally distributed records. Early Holocene (10,000 to 5000 years ago) warmth is followed by ~0.7°C cooling through the middle to late Holocene (<5000 years ago), culminating in the coolest temperatures of the Holocene during the Little Ice Age, about 200 years ago. This cooling is largely associated with ~2°C change in the North Atlantic. Current global temperatures of the past decade have not yet exceeded peak interglacial values but are warmer than during ~75% of the Holocene temperature history. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change model projections for 2100 exceed the full distribution of Holocene temperature under all plausible greenhouse gas emission scenarios.
Gas chromatographic separation of hydrogen isotopes using metal hydrides

Abstract A study was made of the properties of metal hydrides which may be suitable for use in chromatographic separation of hydrogen isotopes. 65 alloys were measured, with the best having an H-D separation factor of 1.35 at 60 °C. Chromatographic columns using these alloys produced deuterium enrichments of up to 3.6 in a single pass using natural abundance hydrogen as the starting material.
A Practitioner's Dilemma: How can I calculate the value of communities of practice?

The purpose of this article is to describe a process for evaluating the return on investment (ROI) of communities of practice. Adapting Kirkpatrick's four-step model, Wenger, Trayner and deLaat produced a revolutionary new method for connecting specific CoP activities to organizational results. This article describes the method in order to help practitioners "prove" the value of CoPs to executive-level decision makers.
Physiologic Specialization of Puccinia triticina on Wheat in the United States in 2006

Collections of Puccinia triticina were obtained from rust-infected leaves provided by cooperators throughout the United States and from surveys of wheat fields and nurseries in the Great Plains, Ohio River Valley, southeast, California, and Washington State in order to determine the virulence of the wheat leaf rust population in 2006. Single uredinial isolates (718 in total) were derived from the collections and tested for virulence phenotype on lines of Thatcher wheat that are near-isogenic for leaf rust resistance genes Lr1, Lr2a, Lr2c, Lr3a, Lr9, Lr16, Lr24, Lr26, Lr3ka, Lr11, Lr17a, Lr30, LrB, Lr10, Lr14a, Lr18, Lr2, and Lr28 and winter wheat lines with genes Lr41 and Lr42. In the United States in 2006, 56 virulence phenotypes were found. Virulence phenotypes TDBJG, TDBGG, and TDBJH were among the four most common phenotypes and were all virulent to resistance gene Lr24. These phenotypes were found throughout the Great Plains region. Phenotype MLDSD with virulence to Lr9, Lr17, and Lr41 was also widely distributed in the Great Plains. In the soft red winter wheat region of the southeastern states, phenotypes TCRKG and MBRKG with virulence to genes Lr11, Lr26, and Lr18 were among the common phenotypes. Virulence phenotypes with virulence to Lr16 were most frequent in the spring wheat region of the northern Great Plains. Virulence to Lr21 was not found in any of the tested isolates.
Optical studies of metallodielectric photonic crystals: Bismuth and gallium infiltrated opals

We have fabricated three-dimensional metallodielectric photonic crystals that consist of bismuth and gallium metals infiltrated into porous synthetic opals that have 300 nm diam silica balls. The specular reflectivity was measured in a broad spectral range from 0.3 to 25 μm using a variety of light sources, detectors and spectrometers. In addition to broadening of the original Bragg stop bands in the visible spectral range that give rise to iridescence colors, we also found a dramatic decrease of reflectivity in the visible/near-infrared spectral range. For frequencies below a cut-off frequency in the mid-infrared range the reflectivity increases to its normal bulk value in the respective metal, as predicted by theory and fitted by a model calculation.
Pathogenic Subsets of Antibodies to DNA

Among the autoantibodies that are known to play a role in the pathogenesis or autoimmune diseases, antibodies to DNA (anti-DNA) have been the subject of much study. Several interesting observations have resulted. The ability to make antibodies that bind DNA is not abnormal. Normal mice and humans can produce antibodies that bind DNA. On the other hand, large quantities of antibodies to DNA are found in the sera of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and complement-lixing antibodies to double-stranded (ds) DNA cause some of the tissue lesions, especially glomerulonephritis (GN). Why, then, do some individuals make anti-DNA that deposits in glomeruli, skin, and other tissue, resulting in organ damage? It is likely that disease results from a combination of several factors— ability to make pathogenic antibody subsets, inability to downregulate those subsets, and “tissue susceptibility” to injury from those antibodies and their immune complexes. This chapter will focus on the characteristics of ...
Nonlinear Optical Response Of Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal Materials

Composite materials consisting of liquid crystal droplets dispersed in a polymer binder may be switched from an opaque scattering state to a clear transparent state by application of a d.c. or low frequency a.c. electric field.1-3 This optoelectronic response is the result of the effect of the external field on the birefringence of the liquid crystal contained in the droplets. The applied electric field serves to align the liquid crystal in an orientation such that the refractive index of the droplet is matched with that of the polymer binder. In this paper we report observations of a nonlinear scattering mechanism in polymer dispersed liquid crystal films due to reorientation of the liquid crystal molecules by the optical field of a CW argon ion laser. Preliminary observations show an 80% reduction in the transmittance of these materials due to laser induced scattering.
The Intracranial Toxicity of Influenza Virus for Mice.

SummaryAlthough incapable of propagating in the mouse brain, the influenza virus strains used in these experiments produced convulsions in this species when injected intra-cranially. The convulsive factor was absorbed on and eluted from chicken red blood cells as was the virus. The convulsive factor was inactivated by heating at 56°C for 30 minutes. It was specifically neutralized by antiserum.
SIGMA--A Graphical Approach to Teaching Simulation.

SIGMA (Simulation Graphical Modeling and Analysis) is a graphics environment for building, testing, and experimenting with discrete event simulation models on personal computers. SIGMA is based on “event graphs,” a concept that utilizes symbolic representations to concisely depict large, complex discrete event systems (like airports, hospitals, and factories) so that they can be understood more easily. SIGMA, the computer animation of event graphs, captures the logic of the computational processes underpinning a simulation.
A SIMO Parallel-String Driver IC for Dimmable LED Backlighting With Local Bus Voltage Optimization and Single Time-Shared Regulation Loop

Traditional LED drivers with multiple converters for powering up multiple strings in parallel suffer from high system volume and cost. The reported literature with single converter and dynamic bus voltage offers compact designs. However, the performance on power consumption is degraded. Meanwhile, all the aforementioned approaches require multiple current regulation elements, which inflict current balance errors due to mismatches. A compact single-inductor multiple-output parallel-string LED driver with time-multiplexing control is, thus, proposed. It can independently optimize local bus voltages for power loss reduction. In addition, a single time-shared control loop is proposed for current regulation in multiple parallel strings, resulting in a dramatic reduction of current balance errors. A 0.35 μm CMOS prototype achieves 2.8 times loss reduction over the reported literature, with a current balance error well controlled below 1.7%. The control scheme also offers flexible dimming for advanced backlighting operations.
A Systematic Investigation of Decomposition of Nano Zn4O(C8H4O4)3 Metal−Organic Framework

The systematic investigation of thermal decomposition of the metal−organic framework Zn4O(BDC)4 (MOF-5) was carried out. It was found that the decomposition of MOF-5, which could take place at 400 ...
Managed care: Moral conflicts for primary health care nurses

Abstract Nurses working within managed care systems often face moral conflicts. Ethical nursing practice seems to require justice with integrity, that is, treating persons in like circumstances similarly (formal justice); helping to shape public policy regarding the provision of health care benefits and burdens (distributive justice): discussing with patients the benefits that are and are not provided by particular insurance policies (contractual justice); and considering the issue of fairness relating to the pool of applicants of a particular insurance plan (contributive justice).
Chest pain—a strong predictor of adverse cardiac events following percutaneous intervention (from the Evaluation of Platelet IIb/IIIa Inhibitor for Stenting Trial [EPISTENT])

Postprocedural chest pain remains a common problem, and irrespective of electrocardiographic changes, is associated with a higher incidence of early cardiac events. A return to the catheterization laboratory is unlikely to benefit patients with postprocedural chest pain without electrocardiographic changes with documented irreversible intraprocedural complications, or those with late postprocedural pain.
Spin injection, diffusion, and detection in lateral spin-valves

We demonstrate the injection of spin-polarized electrons into paramagnetic Au nanowires by driving an electric current from a ferromagnetic permalloy (Py) electrode. The nonequilibrium spin accumulation in Au results in a difference between the chemical potentials for spin-up and spin-down electrons that is detected as a field-dependent voltage signal using a second Py electrode. The magnitude of the voltage contrast (>10%) and its coincidence with the magnetic switching of the Py electrodes attest to the spin-sensitive origin of the signals. By increasing the separation of the Py injector and detector, we observe an exponential decay of the spin signals. The measurements yield a spin-diffusion length of 63±15nm and an injected spin polarization of 3% in Au at 10 K.
Reactions of 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐cyclobutanedione with amines and other nucleophiles. II

The reaction of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanedione with various nucleophiles has been demonstrated to be dependent on the reaction conditions, steric factors and the nucleophilicity of the attacking species. In the reaction with primary amines the intermediate has been established as the N-substituted imine which is hydrolyzed to the corresponding amide in the presence of water. The reaction of diamines with the dione has been shown to be a method of synthesizing 2-substituted imidazolines and 1 H-4,5-dihydropyrimidines.
Factors influencing power hand tool fastening accuracy and reaction forces.

Objective:A laboratory study investigated the relationship between power hand tool and task-related factors affecting threaded fastener torque accuracy and associated handle reaction force.Background:We previously developed a biodynamic model to predict handle reaction forces. We hypothesized that torque accuracy was related to the same factors that affect operator capacity to react against impulsive tool forces, as predicted by the model.Method:The independent variables included tool (pistol grip on a vertical surface, right angle on a horizontal surface), fastener torque rate (hard, soft), horizontal distance (30 cm and 60 cm), and vertical distance (80 cm, 110 cm, and 140 cm). Ten participants (five male and five female) fastened 12 similar bolts for each experimental condition.Results:Average torque error (audited − target torque) was affected by fastener torque rate and operator position. Torque error decreased 33% for soft torque rates, whereas handle forces greatly increased (170%). Torque error al...
ASIC-based event-driven 2D digital electron counter for TEM imaging

A two-dimensional application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) based detector, designed for X-ray protein crystallography, has been tested to determine its suitability as a direct electron detector for TEM imaging in the voltage range of 20-400 keV. Several markedly different properties of this device distinguish it from the charge coupled device (CCD) detectors: (1) the ASIC detector can be used directly under electron bombardment in the voltage range stated above, therefore requiring no scintillator screen; (2) each active pixel of the device is an electron counter and generates digital output independently; (3) the readout of the device is frameless and event driven; (4) the device can be operated at the room temperature and is nearly noise free; and (5) the counting dynamic range of the device is virtually unlimited. It appears that an imaging system based on this type of device would be ideal for low-dose TEM imaging and online diffraction observation and recording, as well as more conventional imaging, providing the many advantages of direct digital readout for almost all applications.
A Rapid Method For Cyclosporine A Determination By Hplc

Abstract A rapid method is described for the determination of cyclo-sporine in whole blood by HPLC. The cyclosporine is extracted with an acetonitrile-isopropanol mixture, purified on a C18 minicolumn, and finally injected on a CN column. Recovery of the drug is greater than 90%.
Deriving Link Travel-Time Distributions via Stochastic Speed Processes

We derive an analytical expression for the cumulative distribution function of travel time for a vehicle traversing a freeway link of arbitrary length. The vehicle's speed is assumed to be modulated by a random environment that can be modeled as a stochastic process. We first present a partial differential equation (PDE) describing the travel time distribution and obtain a solution in terms of Laplace transforms. Next, we present a numerical inversion algorithm to invert the transforms. The technique is demonstrated on two example problems. Numerical results indicate great promise for this approach to the link travel-time problem.
Exploring Activity Cliffs from a Chemoinformatics Perspective

The activity cliff concept experiences considerable interest in medicinal chemistry and chemoinformatics. Activity cliffs are defined as pairs or groups of structurally similar or analogous active compounds having large differences in potency. Depending on the research field, views of activity cliffs partly differ. While interpretability and utility of activity cliff information is considered to be of critical importance in medicinal chemistry, large-scale exploration and prediction of activity cliffs are of special interest in chemoinformatics. Much emphasis has recently been put on making activity cliff information accessible for medicinal chemistry applications. Herein, different approaches to the analysis and prediction of activity cliffs are discussed that are of particular relevance from a chemoinformatics viewpoint.
Seasonal Variations of Chlorophyll $a$ Concentration in the Northern South China Sea

Monthly climatology of chlorophyll concentration (chl ) based on nine years of SeaWiFS data is used to illustrate seasonal variations and spatial structures in the northern South China Sea (SCS). Chl starts to increase in September at the northern coast of Luzon Island, continues to increase in the autumn, and reaches its maximum in December or January. Maximum chl is centered in the northern SCS off the northwestern coast of Luzon Island. Chl starts to decrease gradually in February, and its values become very low from June to August. The region of elevated chl during the winter bloom season is funnel shaped, with the narrow end at the northern coast of Luzon Island, where the chl value is highest and opening toward the northwest. The sea surface temperature (SST) in this funnel-shaped region is significantly colder than SST in surrounding regions of the same latitude. The present study indicates that the winter blooms indicated by higher chl and colder SST in the northern SCS are linked strongly to the local winter monsoon. The initial data exploration and analysis presented in this study was carried out using Giovanni, a state-of-the-art Web-based data analysis and visualization tool.
Development, Validation, and Application of a Fully Integrated Automation System for Screening and Selection of High Yielding Production Cell Lines

The process of screening and selecting cell lines for the production of biopharmaceuticals can be very labor intensive and may involve screening thousands of cells lines in order to select high yielding producers. We have developed an integrated automation system to increase efficiency and throughput for screening and selection during cell line development. The system was designed to automate three sequential assays: (i) high throughput ELISA to identify high producers; (ii) digital imaging of high producers, and (iii) selection and expansion of high producing cell lines.
Photorefractive properties of SBN:60 systematically doped with rhodium

Strontium barium niobate (SBN) was doped with rhodium to enhance its photorefractive behavior. Crystals with six different Rh concentrations, ranging from 0.015 to 0.20 wt. %, were grown and characterized. With a higher Rh concentration the following trends were observed at a wavelength of 514.5 nm: (i) a larger linear absorption coefficient α, (ii) a larger maximum two-beam-coupling coefficient Γ, (iii) a higher net coupling coefficient (Γ − α), (iv) a longer two-beam-coupling time response, (v) a shorter fixed-level-gain time response, (vi) a constant photoionization cross section, and (vii) a smaller photorefractive sensitivity. With extraordinary polarization used to invoke the large r33 electro-optic coefficient, two-beam-coupling coefficients exceeding 60 cm−1 were measured in thin (∼1 mm) plates of the heavily Rh-doped crystals, which is consistent with the expected coupling by inference from measurements with ordinary polarization in thick (∼5 mm) crystals. Contradirectional two-beam coupling in SBN along the ĉ axis (independent of polarization, since r13 = r23) gave a coupling coefficient of almost 14 cm−1 for the 0.20-wt. % sample; the contradirectional coupling coefficient decreased approximately in proportion with the decreasing Rh-doping concentration in the other crystals. Estimated photorefractive charge densities ranged from ∼4 × 1016 to ∼8 × 1017 cm3, which constituted approximately 1% of the total Rh-doping concentration.
TENNYSON, ARNOLD, AND THE WEALTH OF THE EAST

It is not indeed necessary to own a country in order to do trade with it or invest capital in it.—J. A. Hobson, 1902 WHEN WE EXAMINE Alfred Tennyson's and Matthew Arnold's poetic depictions of the wealth of the East, we find that most poems respond to one of two impulses. Some poems seem motivated mainly by the same classic orientalism that is exemplified by those poems of the Romantic period that represent the East as a world apart, untouched by time. But Arnold and Tennyson also wrote poems driven more by the imperialist currents that strengthened throughout the Victorian period; these poems show the East becoming increasingly assimilated into the very modern world of commerce within the British imperial system. In their poems on Eastern wealth, then, Arnold and Tennyson seem not only to be working through their inheritance from Romanticism (specifically, Romantic orientalism), but also to be negotiating between more traditional notions of value and those specific to the developing political and economic systems of the Victorian age. Ultimately, these poems' conception of the wealth of the East is at least consistent with, if not also implicated in, the conflicted evolution of imperialist ideology.
Design of CMOS CML circuits for high-speed broadband communications

This paper discusses the behavior and design of CMOS current-mode logic (CML) circuits. The advantages of using the CML topology over static CMOS for high-speed digital signals are discussed. Biasing and dynamic behavior of CML circuits are discussed and a design method for optimizing the bandwidth and speed is presented.