cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accurate and robust sparse-view angle CT image reconstruction using deep learning and prior image constrained compressed sensing (DL-PICCS).

BACKGROUND Sparse-view CT image reconstruction problems encountered in dynamic CT acquisitions are technically challenging. Recently, many deep learning strategies have been proposed to reconstruct CT images from sparse-view angle acquisitions showing promising results. However, two fundamental problems with these deep learning reconstruction methods remain to be addressed: (1) limited reconstruction accuracy for individual patients and (2) limited generalizability for patient statistical cohorts. PURPOSE The purpose of this work is to address the previously mentioned challenges in current deep learning methods. METHODS A method that combines a deep learning strategy with prior image constrained compressed sensing (PICCS) was developed to address these two problems. In this method, the sparse-view CT data were reconstructed by the conventional filtered backprojection (FBP) method first, and then processed by the trained deep neural network to eliminate streaking artifacts. The outputs of the deep learning architecture were then used as the needed prior image in PICCS to reconstruct the image. If the noise level from the PICCS reconstruction is not satisfactory, another light duty deep neural network can then be used to reduce noise level. Both extensive numerical simulation data and human subject data have been used to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the performance of the proposed DL-PICCS method in terms of reconstruction accuracy and generalizability. RESULTS Extensive evaluation studies have demonstrated that: (1) quantitative reconstruction accuracy of DL-PICCS for individual patient is improved when it is compared with the deep learning methods and CS-based methods; (2) the false-positive lesion-like structures and false negative missing anatomical structures in the deep learning approaches can be effectively eliminated in the DL-PICCS reconstructed images; and (3) DL-PICCS enables a deep learning scheme to relax its working conditions to enhance its generalizability. CONCLUSIONS DL-PICCS offers a promising opportunity to achieve personalized reconstruction with improved reconstruction accuracy and enhanced generalizability.
African American Women's Experiences with Birth After a Prior Cesarean Section

Objectives Women who have had a cesarean section (C-section) and become pregnant again may choose to have a planned repeat cesarean delivery (RCD) or vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC). This study aimed to characterize the pregnancy and birth experiences of African American (AA) women who had a successful VBAC, failed VBAC, or RCD. Methods Eligible participants (N = 25) self-identified as AA, had a C-section and a subsequent birth(s) in the past 12 years, and were educated past high school. Each participant was individually interviewed via phone call. The Sort and Sift, Think and Shift method was used to evaluate interview transcripts to minimize researcher bias and emphasize the voices of the participants. Results The resulting themes included the impact of providers on pregnancy and childbirth satisfaction, the value of autonomy in maternal health decision-making, and the role that racism plays in AA women's birth experiences. Although some participants recalled a positive experience, the presence of limited autonomy, lack of support, and negative experiences with providers indicate that birth after a prior C-section for AA women can be improved. Conclusions Providers should address their own racial biases and utilize the shared decision-making approach when their patients decide between a VBAC and RCD to improve patient satisfaction.
Fundamental Genetics: Chromosomes of Eukarya

Overview The eukaryal genome is located in the cell's nucleus, packaged in structurally complex chromosomes. Through the cell cycle, chromosomes condense and decondense, undergoing dramatic changes in thickness and length. With few exceptions, eukaryal chromosomes consist of thread-like chromatin , composed of particles of histones wrapped by DNA, called nucleosomes . Nearly all eukaryal chromosomes are linear and possess a pair of telomeres. In most species, each chromosome has a single centromere , which functions in chromosome separation and movement. Condensed versus Uncondensed Nuclear Chromosomes In eukarya, chromosomes reside in the nucleus, a large spherical organelle bounded by a double-membraned envelope. In most cases chromosomes are visible by light microscopy only during mitosis , the brief nuclear division phase. Mitotic chromosomes are short and thick (d ~1 2 µm, “packed to travel”) and take up colorful stains used to detect their presence. They consist of twin copies called sister chromatids and are attached to spindle fibers (microtubules that move chromosomes). Genes are not transcribed into RNA during mitosis. Mitotic chromosomes are useful for the study of chromosome structure, even though they bear little resemblance to “chromosomes at work,” and even though mitosis takes up a small fraction of the life span of a typical cell (Figure 5.1). Chromosomes perform most of their genetic functions during interphase , the cell's lengthy, nondividing period.
Using Experiments in Teaching and Explaining the Role of Network Externalities in Technology Adoption and Industry Evolution

The experiment explained in this paper helps students to understand the importance of network externalities in the evolution of industries and technology. Complex enough to permit exploration of the role of strategic pricing in network industries, the method is still flexible enough to allow simpler non-strategic illustrations of the network effects. Given prominent examples of network effects in firm and government action (e.g., the advanced television systems committee, antitrust litigation for the credit/debit card industry, and private strategy in the game console and newer DVD technologies (HD DVD vs. Blu-Ray)), this experiment fits well as either an illustration of the idea and its potential importance or a starting point for a more detail studied of the issue.
Corrosive destruction of prismatic bar of circular cross-section under pure bending

The problem of determining the time before the corrosive destruction of the straight bar of circular cross-section, which is subjected to pure bending in a corrosive medium was solved. The following cases were investigated: bar corrosion process does not depend on the stress caused by its pure bending in a corrosive medium; bar corrosion process essentially depends on its stress. The rate of the bar radius change in the corrosion process is considered to be linearly dependent on its stress during pure bending deformation. Formulas that express the dependence of stress, radius, limit wear time and cracking time of the bar on the specified corrosion process parameters and given bending moment were derived. Using the formulas obtained, the graphs of dependence of full wear time and cracking time on the bar stress at the initial time point were constructed. Also, the graph of the bar radius change (decrease) in time during the corrosion process was plotted.
The Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS): Validation among a Sample of Female College Students

ABSTRACT Introduction Gynecological exams continue to be underused among young women, possibly due to a woman's genital self-image. Aims The purpose of this study was to (i) examine college women's genital image using the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS); (ii) assess the reliability, validity, and factor structure of data collected on the FGSIS; and (iii) examine the relationship between FGSIS scores and gynecological exam behaviors. Method Data were collected in November/December 2010 from 450 undergraduate women. Main Outcome Measures Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze demographic variables. A comprehensive psychometric assessment of the FGSIS included: (i) a reliability assessment of internal consistency; (ii) conducting a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to identify factor structure; and (iii) structural equation modeling and predictive discriminant analysis to asses the predictive qualities of the FGSIS on gynecological exam behavior. Results CFA analyses yielded a two-factor FGSIS structure: X 2 (12, N = 450) = 49.77; P t (449) = −2.501; P = 0.01). Conclusions Data collected using the FGSIS were found to be valid and reliable in this sample, further supporting the utility of the scale and aiding in the understanding of college women's genital image using an underlying two-factor approach. This has important implications for the development of sexual health and women's health programs and discussions. Specifically, a two-factor FGSIS can aid medical and health professionals in better understanding relationships between genital image and gynecological exam behavior. DeMaria AL, Hollub AV, and Herbenick D. The Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS): Validation among a sample of female college students. J Sex Med 2012;9:708–718.
Dissociation energy of He2+(u2+)

The potential curve for ${{\mathrm{He}}_{2}}^{+}({^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{u}}^{+})$ has been calculated using Slater-type orbitals as a basis for a 26-term atomic orbital-configuration wave function. The calculation establishes a rigorous lower bound, ${E}_{\mathrm{exp}}(\mathrm{atoms})\ensuremath{-}{E}_{\mathrm{calc}}(\mathrm{molecule})$, of 2.24 eV for the dissociation energy of ${{\mathrm{He}}_{2}}^{+}({^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{u}}^{+})$. This value together with the ionization energies of ${\mathrm{He}}^{*}(2^{3}S)$ and ${{\mathrm{He}}_{2}}^{*}({^{3}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{u}}^{+})$ is used in an energy cycle to give a lower limit of 1.76 eV for the dissociation energy of ${{\mathrm{He}}_{2}}^{*}({^{3}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{u}}^{+})$.
Measurement of Absolute Arterial Cerebral Blood Volume in Human Brain Without Using a Contrast Agent

Arterial cerebral blood volume (CBVa) is a vital indicator of tissue perfusion and vascular reactivity. We extended the recently developed inflow vascular-space-occupancy (iVASO) MRI technique, which uses spatially selective inversion to suppress the signal from blood flowing into a slice, with a control scan to measure absolute CBVa using CSF for signal normalization. Images were acquired at multiple blood nulling times to account for the heterogeneity of arterial transit times across the brain, from which both CBVa and arterial transit times were quantified. Arteriolar CBVa was determined separately by incorporating velocity-dependent bipolar crusher gradients. Gray matter CBVa values (n = 11) were 2.04 ± 0.27 and 0.76 ± 0.17 ml blood/100 ml tissue without and with crusher gradients (b = 1.8 s/mm2), respectively. Arterial transit times were 671 ± 43 and 785 ± 69 ms, respectively. The arterial origin of the signal was validated by measuring its T2, which was within arterial range. The proposed approach does not require exogenous contrast agent administration, and provides a noninvasive alternative to existing blood volume techniques for mapping absolute CBVa in studies of brain physiology and neurovascular diseases.
Snoring-Induced Vibratory Angioedema.

Patient: Female, 70 Final Diagnosis: Snoring induced vibratory angioedema Symptoms: Swelling of tongue • roof of mouth and throat • multiple episodes at night Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Continuous positive airway pressure therapy Specialty: Allergology Objective: Rare disease
Volume rendering data with uncertainty information

This paper explores two general methods for incorporating volumetric uncertainty information in direct volume rendering. The goal is to produce volume rendered images that depict regions of high (or low) uncertainty in the data. The first method involves incorporating the uncertainty information directly into the volume rendering equation. The second method involves post-processing information of volume rendered images to composite uncertainty information. We present some initial findings on what mappings provide qualitatively satisfactory results and what mappings do not. Results are considered satisfactory if the user can identify regions of high or low uncertainty in the rendered image. We also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
Development and Applications of New Measures of Life Stressors, Social Resources, and Coping Responses 1Presented at the 23rd International Congress of Applied Psychology in Madrid, Spain, July 1994. Preparation of the manuscript was supported by NIAAA Grants AA06699 and AA02863 and by Department of Veterans Affairs Health Services Research and Development Service funds.

The paper begins by presenting a conceptual framework that focuses on how personal and social resources aid people in confronting acute and chronic stressors. It then describes the Life Stressors and Social Resources Inventory (LISRES), which assesses stressors and resources in eight life domains, and the Coping Responses Inventory (CRI), which assesses eight sets of approach and avoidance coping responses. To illustrate how such measures can help to address important issues in stress and coping, examples are presented from longitudinal studies of adaptation among distressed and healthy adults. Finally, implications of the work for practitioners and program evaluators are examined and directions for future research are considered.
Cellular electrophysiological effects of chronic fluoxetine and duloxetine administration on serotonergic responses in the aging hippocampus.

The pharmacological and physiological effects of chronic administration of the selective serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine and the dual 5-HT/norepinephrine (NE) reuptake inhibitor duloxetine were compared on 5-HT-mediated electrophysiological responses recorded in the hippocampus of young (3-5 months) and old (17-20 months) female Fischer 344 rats. Fluoxetine, duloxetine, or vehicle (saline) was administered once daily for 14 days (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and extracellular recordings of spontaneously firing CA1 and CA3 pyramidal neurons were conducted 24 h following the last injection using microiontophoretic drug application techniques in a chloral hydrate anesthetized preparation. The recovery times (RT50 values; sec) following 5-HT application on pyramidal neurons were significantly increased in the young and old chronic fluoxetine (FLX) treated groups (73% and 104%, respectively; P < 0.05), but not chronic duloxetine- (DLX) or vehicle- (VEH) treated groups. Following prolonged application of duloxetine (5-10 min), the 5-HT RT50 values were significantly increased in the young FLX groups as compared to the age-matched DLX- and VEH-treated groups. In contrast, a significant decline in the time to recovery produced by 5-HT (52%) was observed in the old vs. young FLX-treated group following the second co-application of 5-HT with duloxetine. Within each drug treatment and age group, co-application of duloxetine and 5-HT did not alter the inhibitory responses (IT50 values; nC) produced by the application of 5-HT alone. These results demonstrate cellular adaptive changes in serotonergic neuronal function occur following repeated exposure to 5-HT reuptake inhibitors in an age-dependent manner.
Stress singularities in laminated composite wedges

Abstract This work is concerned with stress singularities at the apex of both symmetric and antisymmetric N-layered composite laminate wedges, using classical lamination theory. The symmetric bending case is governed by a single differential equation, while the antisymmetric case, in which bending and in-plane extension do not occur independently, involves three coupled differential equations. In each case, the governing differential equation(s) have non-constant coefficients which depend on the polar coordinate θ. These do not, in general, have closed-form solutions and numerical techniques must be employed. Finite difference schemes are used here. Results are presented for symmetric and antisymmetric configurations of graphite/epoxy (T-300/5208) angle-ply wedges.
An electron microscopic localization of calcium in the small intestine of normal, rachitic, and vitamin-D-treated rats.

The intracellular localization of calcium in the mucosal lining of the small intestine of normal, rachitic, and Vitamin D2 treated rats was studied using45Ca-autoradiography, microincineration, and electron microscopy. Small, electron-dense granules and autoradiographic label were seen primarily within microvilli and mitochondria. The granules were sparse in mitochondria from rachitic rats while normal rat mitochondria demonstrated them regularly. The mitochondria of Vitamin-D2-treated rats contained numerous electron dense granules. These granules remained following microincineration. An inverse relation in the amount of granules appearing in the mitochondria and in the microvillus was found. Granules were limited to the microvillus region in the rachitic animals and increased significantly in the mitochondria following treatment with Vitamin D2. This study indicates that a large amount of calcium is absorbed across the cell membrane and is then bound within the microvillus. Vitamin D is apparently necessary for mobilizing this bound calcium from the microvilli. The mobilized calcium enters the mitochondria or passes through the cell to the adjacent blood vessels.
Membrane Binding, Structure, and Localization of Cecropin-Mellitin Hybrid Peptides: A Site-Directed Spin-Labeling Study

The interaction of antimicrobial peptides with membranes is a key factor in determining their biological activity. In this study we have synthesized a series of minimized cecropin-mellitin hybrid peptides each containing a single cysteine residue, modified the cysteine with the sulfhydryl-specific methanethiosulfonate spin-label, and used electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure membrane-binding affinities and determine the orientation and localization of peptides bound to membranes that mimic the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. All of the peptides were unstructured in aqueous solution but underwent a significant conformational change upon membrane binding that diminished the rotational mobility of the attached spin-label. Apparent partition coefficients were similar for five of the six constructs examined, indicating that location of the spin-label had little effect on peptide binding as long as the attachment site was in the relatively hydrophobic C-terminal domain. Depth measurements based on accessibility of the spin-labeled sites to oxygen and nickel ethylenediaminediacetate indicated that at high lipid/peptide ratios these peptides form a single alpha-helix, with the helical axis aligned parallel to the bilayer surface and immersed approximately 5 A below the membrane-aqueous interface. Such a localization would provide exposure of charged/polar residues on the hydrophilic face of the amphipathic helix to the aqueous phase, and allow the nonpolar residues along the opposite face of the helix to remain immersed in the hydrophobic phase of the bilayer. These results are discussed with respect to the mechanism of membrane disruption by antimicrobial peptides.
Some Common Problems in Log-Linear Analysis:

Several problems often encountered in research using log-linear models for categorical response variables are discussed. The issues covered are (a) determining the degrees of freedom for a model, (b) analyzing sparse data, (c) analyzing weighted data, (d) modeling rates, and (e) interpreting results.
External ion injection into an electron beam ion source

Abstract In this paper we discuss the design, construction and results obtained with an external ion injection system into the Cornell superconducting solenoid, cryogenic electron beam ion source CEBIS II. A small sputter-PIG ion source with cathodes made from the material to be ionized is used as a source of dc currents of singly charged ions which are transported and injected into the ionization region of the EBIS. The injection system uses a 90° electrostatic quadrupole deflector which directs the beam from the sputter-PIG into the electron beam ion source during injection, and acts as an einzel lens during ion extraction from CEBIS II.
Scalable imaging VLC receivers with token-based pixel selection for spatial multiplexing

Visible light communications (VLC) can be adopted in lighting infrastructure to provide ubiquitous wireless access in spaces where light is consumed by humans. Unfortunately, the requirement to provide high-quality diffuse illumination reduces the potential capacity of the free space links and we seek ways to accommodate both the lighting and data rate goals. We investigate the combination of multiple VLC transmissions through spatial multiplexing (SM), a MIMO technique, to meet our data rate goals. Specifically, this paper deals with receiver designs intended to receive and decode increasing numbers of SM/MIMO VLC data streams.Conventional imaging (camera) receivers have been used as VLC receivers; however, they are intended to capture frames at relatively low speeds and their architectures do not translate well for receiving multiple high-rate VLC streams. Thus we consider new techniques to optimize imaging receivers to meet the capacity requirements of multiple SM streams.In this paper, we propose token-based pixel selection (TBPS) for CMOS image sensors as a scalable alternative to mitigate this decrease in sampling rate. We show that in many cases, TBPS-based image sensors sample transmissions several times more frequently than windowing image sensors, yielding higher VLC data rates. Assuming the same reset, integration, and read times, TBPS always performs as well as, and often better than, windowing.
Lanthanide orthophosphates as a matrix for solidified radioactive defense and reactor wastes

Lanthanum phosphate is a promising host material for reprocessed light water reactor wastes (e.g., PW-4b). This is demonstrated by the high density of the composite waste form and by the low leach rates of both Cs and Sr. Additionally, crystallographic data on LaPO/sub 4/ pellets loaded with 10 wt % simulated PW-4b indicate the presence of only one phase, i.e., monoclinic monazite. The rare-earth orthophosphates have also been shown to be a viable waste form for Savannah River (SRW) defense wastes. Compaction and sintering studies indicate that the rare-earth phosphate mixture employed here is preferable to pure LaPO/sub 4/ for containing SRW. Higher density and more homogeneous samples were obtained by using the mixed phosphates as compared to pure LaPO/sub 4/ as the host material. It is shown that aluminum removal from the composite SRW is not necessary when incorporating this type of waste into a rare-earth phosphate host. The current results support the view that lanthanide orthophosphate waste forms (i.e., monazite) are potentially superior to borosilicate glasses in the following respects: (1) lower processing temperatures (approx. 1000/sup 0/C versus 1160/sup 0/C for glass); (2) significantly higher waste per volume loadings for a given wt % of waste for monazites more » relative to glass; and (3) the current leaching data show that monazite-type waste forms are clearly superior to glass in retaining Sr, and, in particular, Cs. « less
A robust method for estimating cross-relaxation rates from simultaneous fits to build-up and decay curves.

Abstract This paper introduces a novel computational method for estimating relaxation rates among pairs of spin orders. This method simultaneously estimates all the auto- and cross-relaxation rates from the same measurements, and avoids the ill-conditioning problems associated with multiexponential fits. The method models the relaxation dynamics by a system of linear differential equations, and assumes that measurements of the spin orders have been made at an equally spaced sequence of time points. It computes a nonlinear least-squares fit of the exponential of the rate matrix at the shortest time point to these measurements. Preliminary estimates of the exponential matrix and initial spin orders from which to start the computations are obtained by solving simpler linear-least-squares problems. The performance of the method on simulated 2 × 2 test problems indicates that when measurements at eight or more equally spaced times spanning the maximum and inflection points of the build-up curves are available, the relative errors in the rates are usually less than the relative errors in the measurements. The method is further demonstrated by applying it to the problem of determining the cross correlation-induced cross-relaxation rates between the in-phase and antiphase coherence of the amide groups in the 15 N-labeled protein oxidized flavodoxin. Finally, the possibility of extending the method to other kinds of relaxation measurements and larger spin systems is discussed.
Depositional history of the Main Tuff Interval of the Wittenoom Formation, late Archean—early Proterozoic Hamersley Group, Western Australia

Abstract The Main Tuff Interval (MTI) is a 3.5 to 16.4 m thick sequence of pyroclastic turbidites in the Wittenoom Formation of the late Archean to early Proterozoic Hamersley Group, Western Australia. The Hamersley Group accumulated in a basin located on the Archean Pilbara Craton, Western Australia. MTI pyroclasts formed via hydrovolcanic eruption processes from a magma that was likely intermediate in composition. Eruption took place in a shallow subaqueous setting. The MTI was deposited by high- and low- concentration turbidity currents in four overlapping regional depositional packages. Paleocurrent and stratigraphic data indicate the MTI source lay to the north of the present exposure limits of the Hamersley Group on the Pilbara Craton, and was likely to have been a single volcano. Reflection of turbidity currents in the southeastern part of the study area and westward travel of the reflected flows indicate that the Hamersley Group depositional basin shallowed to the east and south at the time of MTI deposition. The presence of the MTI source volcano on the northern Pilbara Craton indicates that the subsidence and marine deposition recorded by the Hamersley Group may be limited to the southern portion of the craton, and that volcanism may have continued on the northern Pilbara Craton.
Post-translational import of protein into the endoplasmic reticulum of a trypanosome: an in vitro system for discovery of anti-trypanosomal chemical entities

HAT (human African trypanosomiasis), caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, is an emerging disease for which new drugs are needed. Expression of plasma membrane proteins [e.g. VSG (variant surface glycoprotein)] is crucial for the establishment and maintenance of an infection by T. brucei. Transport of a majority of proteins to the plasma membrane involves their translocation into the ER (endoplasmic reticulum). Thus inhibition of protein import into the ER of T. brucei would be a logical target for discovery of lead compounds against trypanosomes. We have developed a TbRM (T. brucei microsome) system that imports VSG_117 post-translationally. Using this system, MAL3-101, equisetin and CJ-21,058 were discovered to be small molecule inhibitors of VSG_117 translocation into the ER. These agents also killed bloodstream T. brucei in vitro; the concentrations at which 50% of parasites were killed (IC50) were 1.5 microM (MAL3-101), 3.3 microM (equisetin) and 7 microM (CJ-21,058). Thus VSG_117 import into TbRMs is a rapid and novel assay to identify 'new chemical entities' (e.g. MAL3-101, equisetin and CJ-21,058) for anti-trypanosome drug development.
High repetition-rate XUV source for ultrafast photoemission

We generate individual, narrowband harmonics between 7.9 eV and 22.3 eV at 50-kHz repetition rate, representing an ideal high-flux source for ultrafast photoemission. A surprising splitting of near threshold harmonics in Ar is moreover observed.
Counting actively metabolizing tissue cultured cells.

Abstract In balanced salt solution 20 mg per cent of Erythrosin B differentially stained Strain L tissue culture cells. Cells that were not stained respired and produced lactic acid. Stained ones did not metabolize. Those cells that were not stained almost instantly with Erythrosin resisted being stained for more than a half hour when the suspension of cells was prepared with a nylon brush. Centrifugal speeds up to 2800 rpm did not appear to be detrimental to the cells. The number of metabolizing cells was greatly decreased outside the range pH 7.1–7.7. Suspensions of Strain L cells in balanced saline solutions contain more stained cells than suspensions in tissue culture medium containing serum and lactalbumin and yeast hydrolysates.
Dry Ex Situ Cleaning Processes for ( 0001 ) Si 6H‐SiC Surfaces

A completely dry ex situ cleaning process based on UV/O 3 oxidation and HF vapor exposure for removal of residual C and oxide, respectively, from (0001) Si [the silicon-terminated surface of SiC] 6H-SiC surfaces to levels equivalent to or better than conventional wet chemical ex situ processing has been demonstrated. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of surfaces exposed to UV-generated ozone revealed the formation of carbon and silicon oxides, as indicated by the broad Si-O Si 2p peak at 102.4 eV (full width at half-maximum = 2.1 eV) and a shift in the surface C 1s peak from 283.6 to 284.2 eV, respectively. Evidence for a reduction in the amount of surface C was shown by an increase in the ratio of the SiC C peak to the surface C peak from 0.8 to 2.7 after the UV/O 3 treatment. Removal of the UV/O 3 silicon oxide via exposure to the vapor from a 10:1 buffered HF solution was indicated by the absence (below the XPS detection limit) of the Si-O Si 2p peak at 102.4 eV. However, this last process results in a F-terminated surface.
Tissue distribution of clenbuterol in the horse.

Plasma and tissue concentrations of clenbuterol (CLB) were determined following oral (p.o.) administration of 1.6 μg/kg twice daily (b.i.d.) for 2 weeks. Horses were administered the last dose on morning of day 15, killedat 0.25, 24, 48, and 72 h post-administration. At 0.25 h, the highest tissue concentrations of CLB were found in the liver (16.21 ng/g), lung (6.48 ng/g), left ventricle (4.99 ng/g), kidney (3.35 ng/g), bronchi (2.56 ng/g), right ventricle (2.08 ng/g), and eye fluids (1.09 ng/g) all of which were higher than that of plasma (1.10 ng/mL). The elimination half-lives (t 1 / 2 k ) for CLB in tissues ranged from 21.2 to 56.3 h, the longest were in the eye fluids (56.9 h), spleen (21.2 h), cerebrum (27.1 h), cerebellum (21.5) and cecum (23.7 h). The t 1 / 2 k for plasma was 10.9 h. Tissue/plasma ratios of liver (14.7), lung (5.9), left ventricle (4.6), kidney (3.1), bronchi, (2.3) and right ventricle (1.9) were high at 0.25 h and remained elevated up to 72 h. Accumulation and sustained high concentration of CLB relative to plasma in these tissues contributed to the prolonged elimination and the ability to quantify CLB in plasma and urine for a prolonged period.
Phase Change in the Upper Mantle above 350 km

BULLEN1,2 has used the Adams-Williamson relation in region B (upper 400 km in the mantle) to relate the rate of change of density in the Earth's interior to the rate of change of seismic velocity. The Adams-Williamson relation implicitly assumed that phase changes are absent. Recent interpretations of the velocity gradient in the mantle3 have re-emphasized the importance of phase changes in region C (between 400 and 900 km). Region B is often treated as a homogeneous layer, but I present here some evidence to show that phases change may also occur in this region.
Acute bacterial skin infections: developments since the 2005 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidelines.

Abstract Background Patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) commonly present to Emergency Departments (EDs) where physicians encounter a wide spectrum of disease severity. The prevalence of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) has increased in the past decade, and CA-MRSA is now a predominant cause of purulent ABSSSI in the United States (US). Objectives This article reviews significant developments since the most recent Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidelines for the management of ABSSSI in the CA-MRSA era, focusing on recent studies and recommendations for managing CA-MRSA, newer antimicrobials with improved MRSA activity, new diagnostic technologies, and options for outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT). Discussion The increasing prevalence of CA-MRSA has led the IDSA and other organizations to recommend empiric coverage of CA-MRSA for purulent ABSSSI. The availability of rapid MRSA detection assays from skin and soft tissue swabs could potentially facilitate earlier selection of targeted antimicrobial therapy. Several newer intravenous antibiotics with expanded MRSA coverage, including ceftaroline fosamil, daptomycin, linezolid, and telavancin, may be utilized for treatment of ABSSSI. OPAT may be an option for intravenous administration of antibiotics in selected patients and may prevent or shorten hospitalizations, decrease readmission rates, and reduce nosocomial infections and complications. Conclusion The growing prevalence of CA-MRSA associated with ABSSSI in the US has a significant impact on clinical management decisions in the ED. Recent availability of new diagnostic testing and therapeutic options may help meet the demand for effective antistaphylococcal agents.
EFFECT OF TRANSIENT ISCHEMIA ON MONOAMINE LEVELS IN THE CEREBRAL CORTEX OF GERBILS1,2

— Cortical monoamine changes during ischemic episodes of varied duration and their sequence of changes following cerebral reperfusion were studied in the gerbil. Forty-one percent of 280 animals exhibited signs of cerebral hemispheric ischemia (stroke) after unilateral common carotid artery occlusion. Norepinephrine (NE) levels decreased after 60 min in the occluded hemisphere of stroked animals but dopamine (DA) levels were unaltered. S-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels became bilaterally reduced in both stroked and non-stroked animals as soon as S min after occlusion. Upon reperfusion after periods of 30 or 60 min of occlusion there was a bilateral rebound increase of cortical NE and DA levels to well above control values in stroked and non-stroked animals. 5-HT levels remained reduced in both groups. Results suggest disorder of monoamine metabolism in ischemic brain which persists during the early reperfusion period, perhaps contributing to deficits in neurological function. Monoamine changes in contralateral non-ischemic hemispheres both during the occlusion and reperfusion periods are thought further evidence of diaschisis.
The determinants of econometric society fellows elections

We study the results of elections of Fellows of the Econometric Society. We aremotivated largely by the question of whether these elections are “fair,” where our deﬁni-tion of fairness is that votes are based solely on the quality of the candidates. If so, thenconditional on quality other characteristics of the candidates (such as geographic locationor subspecialty) should not inﬂuence the probability of election. We ﬁnd that, conditionalon a number of measures of the quality of the candidates, other characteristics do sig-niﬁcantly predict election. For example, an Australian econometrician is less likely to beelected than a North America-based economic theorist. This is true whether or not wecontrol for quality measures.One might object that even fully informed individuals may differ in their assessment ofquality, and that neither the voters nor the authors of this study are fully informed aboutcandidates’ quality. This is true in any study of the impact of ascriptive characteristics onoutcomes. We discuss various interpretations of our ﬁndings in the conclusion, but readersmust draw their own conclusions about what the results imply about the roles of qualityand fairness in this electoral process.1 the electoral institutionMost members of the economics profession consider election as a Fellow as an honor.It recognizes prior professional achievements (within what are the more technical areasof economics). There are roughly 500 living Fellows. Names are placed on the ballot inone of two ways: (i) by the Nominating Committee of the Society, or (ii) by petition ofat least three members (who need not be but usually are current Fellows). The ballotcontains the candidate’s name and current afﬁliation; a list of at most six publications; ashort statement of the candidate’s contribution to economics; and an indication of whetherthe nomination was by Committee or by endorsers and, if the latter (from 1990 through2000), the names of all the endorsers. The ballot deadline is April 30.The electorate, dues-paying current Fellows, receive the ballot in early autumn alongwith the nomination form for each candidate, mark their ballots, and return them tothe Society’s ofﬁce. Results are announced in December. Names on the ballot are inalphabetical order, with a different starting point in each annual election. Voters checkthe names of individuals whom they wish to be elected. A candidate is elected who isapproved on at least 30 percent of the ballots returned. (Typically about half the eligibleFellows cast votes.) Losing candidates can be nominated in later years by either of thetwo methods, but the process must be undertaken de novo.
Incidence of Adenovirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion Using the Polymerase Chain Reaction

The aim of this study is to investigate the role of adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus in the cause of chronic otitis media with effusion by use of the polymerase chain reaction for detection. The polymerase chain reaction has proved to be more sensitive and specific than viral cultures and immunoassays in the detection of viruses in other specimens. Adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus were chosen because these viruses have been the most commonly isolated viruses in middle ear effusions in studies using other techniques. The effusions (132 total) were sterilely collected from 88 children undergoing myringotomy and ventilation tube placement for chronic otitis media with effusion. Nine (6.8%) specimens were positive for adenovirus by the polymerase chain reaction, and 13 (9.9%) were positive for respiratory syncytial virus by the polymerase chain reaction. Only one specimen was positive for adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus by viral culture and immunofluorescence, respectively. Our results show that the polymerase chain reaction can be used to detect adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus in chronic middle ear effusions and that PCR is more sensitive than viral culture and immunofluorescence techniques.
Maternal multivitamin use and orofacial clefts in offspring

Background Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CLP) and cleft palate alone (CP) affect approximately 1 in 1000 infants and 1 in 2,500 infants, respectively. Studies of the relation between orofacial clefts and multivitamins or folic acid have been inconsistent. Methods We used data from a population-based case-control study involving 309 nonsyndromic cleft-affected births (222 with CLP, 87 with CP) and 3,029 control births from 1968 to 1980 to evaluate the relation between regular multivitamin use and the birth prevalence of orofacial clefts. Results We found a 48% risk reduction for CLP (odds ratio = 0.52, 95% confidence interval = 0.34–0.80) among mothers who used multivitamins during the periconceptional period or who started multivitamin use during the first postconceptional month, after controlling for several covariates. The risk reduction for CP was less than those for CLP (odds ratio = 0.81, 95% confidence interval = 0.44–1.52); however, a small number of CP cases limited interpretation. No risk reductions for CLP or CP were found for women who began multivitamin use in the second or third month after conception. Conclusions The magnitude of the risk reduction in our study is comparable to those of other recent studies; our study does not support the contention that only large dosages of folic acid are needed to prevent orofacial clefts. More studies are needed to test the effects of multivitamins and varying dosages of folic acid on the recurrence and/or occurrence of orofacial clefts to provide information needed to determine possible prevention strategies. Teratology 63:79–86, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Breaking the rules to success

Reports that for companies to succeed in today’s marketplace, they must provide an increasingly sophisticated customer base with increasing levels of quality and service. Suggests that in order to do this, companies must install better equipment as well as creatively using people management and motivations skills. Considers changes which have occurred in the marketplace and highlights these changes by describing the failure of the US motor industry after the post‐Second World War boom, when the sale of luxury cars fell in 1970 under the pressure of the oil crisis. Observes forces at work contributing to the demise of large organizations. Concludes that successful companies need to break old‐established rules to success and build new development strategies.
Influence of Iron Deficiency on Olfactory Behavior in Weanling Rats.

Chronically high occupational exposure to airborne metals like iron can impair olfactory function, but little is known about how low iron status modifies olfactory behavior. To investigate the influence of body iron status, weanling rats were fed a diet with low iron content (4 - 7 ppm) to induce iron deficiency anemia and olfactory behavior was compared to control rats fed an isocaloric diet sufficient in iron (210 - 220 ppm). Iron-deficient rats had prolonged exploratory time for attractive odorants in behavioral olfactory habituation/dishabituation tests, olfactory preference tests and olfactory sensitivity tests compared with control rats. No significant differences were observed for aversive odorants between the two groups. These findings suggest that iron-dependent functions may be involved in controlling and processing of olfactory signal transduction via self and lateral inhibition such that odorant signal remains stronger for longer times prolonging exploratory activity on attractive odorants in the behavioral tests. These findings establish that iron deficiency can modify olfactory behavior.
Spatially resolved infrared spectra of F109 turbofan exhaust

There is a strong interest in diagnosing engine performance problems and maintenance needs using optical techniques instead of expensive, time-consuming mechanical inspection. A Telops Hyper-Cam MWIR imaging Fourier-transform spectrometer collected spectrally-resolved images of jet exhaust from an F109 turbofan engine operating at 53%, 82%, and 88% of maximum RPM. This work attempts to discern what information content about the turbulent jet flow field is revealed in the measured spectra. The spectrum is examined and simulated, a radial and axial temperature mapping of the plume is presented, and a turbulent temporal and spatial analysis method is demonstrated. Spectral simulation of a pixel centered at nozzle exit finds volume mixing fractions of 3.3% H2O and 2.8% CO2 and an exhaust temperature of 560K with the engine at 82%. A single, high frequency turbulent feature is mapped and tracked over several frames. Velocity of this feature, based on the 2.86kHz camera frame rate and 0.067cm2 per pixel spatial resolution, is approximately 176m/s and compares favorably with an estimate based on the measured mass flow rate. This effort is a proof of concept and intended to justify qualitative analysis of a more controlled and characterized turbulent source in future work.
Protein synthesis in the rat liver acinus after injection of actinomycin D: A radioautographic study

Abstract Rats were injected with Actinomycin D to inhibit ribonucleic acid synthesis, thereby allowing messenger ribonucleic acid with a long metabolic half-life to become predominant. The rats were then pulsed with tritium labeled leucine for 15 min and radioautograms of samples of their livers were prepared. Analysis of the radicautograms revealed e higher incorporation of the radioisotope into cells of liver acinus zone 1 (periportal) in rats treated with the Actinomycin D. Appropriate controls showed no obvious zonal incorporation in normal animals and no artifacts from randomly bound free labeled amino acids.
Advancing industrial sustainability through energy efficiency improvements in motors and motor-driven systems

Electric motors are the work horse of the industrial sector and they consume nearly 60% of electricity in an industrial environment. This paper highlights the importance of improving the efficiency of motors and drives and how it relates to the sustainable growth of the manufacturing sector. The current market penetration of the adjustable speed drives, the impact of government regulations world-wide, the tools that are being developed at the Electric Power Research Institute to educate its members and their customers are the key focus areas of this paper.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Law: A Decade of Change for Japanese Women?

This article analyzes the impact of the Equal Employment Opportunity Law in Japan, passed in 1986 and now over a decade old. The article views the law as weak and examines its role in relation to the three groups most affected by the legislation: women, bureaucrats, and employers. The article argues that, although the law has produced few gains in employment opportunities for women, it has led to renewed efforts at litigation, increased consciousness and activism among women, and amendments to the law, passed in 1997.
Effect of nutrient availability on marine origination rates throughout the Phanerozoic eon

The diversity of marine life has varied throughout the past 500 million years. Statistical analyses suggest that fluctuations in the availability of marine nutrients has been one important regulator of rates of origination during this time.
Engineering Inhibitor Specificity in the Dead-Box Protein Family

The function of both protein-coding and noncoding RNA is dictated by its secondary structure. To maintain this structure, nature has evolved a family of enzymes known as DEAD-box proteins. They are essential to life, most likely due to their diverse roles in RNA splicing, nuclear export and translation, making it difficult to study them using classic genetic methods, like knockouts. Adding to this problem, DEAD-box family members have an extremely conserved active site, hindering the development of chemical inhibitors that will specifically affect one protein and not all those in the family. To circumvent these problems, we have used an approach called the “gatekeeper” strategy to engineer inhibitor specificity into DEAD-box proteins. This method involves mutating large residues in the ATP-binding pocket to enlarge it and then engineering an inhibitor that fits this expanded binding site. When the target protein is replaced with its mutant counterpart it becomes susceptible to the inhibitor without cross-reacting with other highly related proteins. Thus, we will be able to observe the effects of inhibition and begin to understand the functional roles of specific DEAD-box proteins. Here we show the viability of this method for the DEAD-box protein family through both in vitro and in vivo testing of human DDX3X.