cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Compressive Stress on Longitudinal Wave Speed in Cementitious Material

The Air Force has been interested for some time in the development of computer codes that accurately predict the penetrator trajectory created when munitions are fired into concrete and geomaterial targets, as well as the resulting depth of penetration. Recent work has focused on experimental research performed to determine quasistatic, dynamic, unconfined and confined material properties for development of an elastic/viscoplastic constitutive equation. This constitutive equation has shown some promise in predicting stress and strains but lacks a consistent damage parameter to predict damage or fractures exhibited by the target material during experimental impact tests. Current damage level predictors that employ a scalar damage parameter are not sufficient to predict the directional damage or fracture that occurs in simple uniaxial compression tests of concrete and geomaterials. Tensorial or directional damage parameters coupled with constitutive relations are necessary for better understanding and accurate prediction of damage exhibited when munitions impact concrete and geomaterials. The primary objective of the study described herein was to identify, quantify and characterize damage parameters associated with certain constitutive responses of cementitious and geologic materials. To that end, longitudinal wave speed and biaxial strain data were collected simultaneously on a series of grout cubes as they were being loaded to failure in uniaxial compression. The results of these tests, and a comparison to existing related data [1, 2] are presented.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Problems and Issues in Delivering Vocational Education Instruction and Support Services to Students with Learning Disabilities

Vocational education has several programs and services that should be accessible to all handicapped students, including the learning disabled. Skill training, cooperative work education, work-study, and youth organizations are some available programs from which these students could benefit. However, problems and issues relating to attitudes, personnel preparation, funding, and interagency cooperation and agreements frequently inhibit the delivery of vocational programs and related services to LD students. Vocational and special educators should work together as a team to provide vocational education instruction and the necessary support services to these students. Numerous resources, such as instructional guides, are currently available to assist the special educator in becoming familiar with the concepts, ideas, information, and processes that relate to serving the handicapped in vocational education. The resources and information will help special, educators with increasing their knowledge and participa...
The regulation and function of small heat-shock protein synthesis

The four small heat shock protein genes of Drosophila are tightly linked at the level of DNA, and are coordinately regulated. In cultured cell lines their expression is induced by high temprature shock and by physiological doses of ecdysterone. In vivo, small heat shock gene expression is developmentally regulated. Using recombinant DNA clones we have characterized and compared small hsp gene induction in response to the two independent stimuli.
A computational study towards understanding the mechanism of phosphodiester cleavage by two mononuclear Zn(II) complexes.

In this study, the hydrolytic reaction mechanism of HPNP by two effective mononuclear Zn(II) catalysts was explored by using density functional calculations. With the assumption that the active catalyst is in Zn-aqua form, the water-assisted proton transfer mode was found to be energetically the most favorable one for both the catalysts among three possible reaction pathways. The rate-limiting step on this pathway is a concerted double-proton transfer, concomitant with the nucleophilic addition of the deprotonated hydroxyl group to form a five-coordinated phosphorus intermediate. A comparison of potential energy surfaces for both catalysts shows that the three amino groups in the second coordination sphere of one catalyst play an important role in stabilizing the proton transfer (or nucleophilic addition) transition state. The two coordination spheres are found to have almost the same contributions in catalyzing the phosphate ester cleavage reaction. Also, present calculations show that the water-assisted proton transfer mechanism with the catalyst L-Zn–OH2 is more favorable in energy than the general base pathway with the active catalyst L-Zn–OH suggested previously.
A prospective phase II study of chemoradiation followed by adjuvant chemotherapy for FIGO stage I-IIIa (1988) uterine papillary serous carcinoma of the endometrium

Abstract Objective To prospectively evaluate tumor control, survival, and toxic effects in patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (1988) stage I–IIIA papillary serous carcinoma of the endometrium treated with concurrent chemoradiation and adjuvant chemotherapy. Methods Thirty-two patients were enrolled from October 2001 through July 2009. Patients underwent full surgical disease staging and postoperative concurrent weekly paclitaxel (50mg/m 2 ) and pelvic RT to 45Gy plus a vaginal cuff boost followed by 4cycles of adjuvant paclitaxel (135mg/m 2 ). Results Thirty patients (94%) were evaluable (3 with stage IA disease, 11 IB, 3 IC, 1 IIB, and 12 IIIA). Eighteen patients (60%) received all 5 planned courses of concurrent chemotherapy, 10 (33%) received 4 courses, and 2 (7%) received 3 courses. All 30 patients received RT; 27 (90%) received the full dose, 2 received 43.2Gy, and 1 received 39.6Gy owing to toxic effects. Twenty-three patients (77%) completed all 4cycles of adjuvant paclitaxel, 3 (10%) completed 3cycles, 2 (7%) completed 2cycles, and 2 received no adjuvant therapy. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and local control rates for all patients were 93%, 87%, and 87%, respectively, at 2years and 85%, 83%, and 87%, respectively, at 5years. Six patients developed (20%) grade 3/4 toxicities from the treatment. Four patients (13%) had grade 3 or more severe bowel complications and two patients developed symptomatic pelvic fractures. Conclusions Treatment with concurrent paclitaxel and pelvic RT followed by 4 courses of systemic paclitaxel produced favorable results in patients with surgically staged I–III UPSC.
Postoperative pancreatic fistulas are not equivalent after proximal, distal, and central pancreatectomy.

It is uncertain whether postoperative pancreatic fistulas after distal and central pancreatectomies behave similarly to those after pancreaticoduodenectomy. To date, this concept has not been validated either clinically or economically. Overall, 256 consecutive pancreatic resections from October 2001 to February 2006 (184 pancreaticoduodenectomies, 66 distal pancreatectomies, and 6 central pancreatectomies) were evaluated according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula classification scheme. Pancreatic fistula was defined as any measurable drainage on or after postoperative day 3, with amylase content greater than three times the normal serum value. Outcomes were divided into four grades: (1) no fistula, (2) grade A: biochemical fistula without clinical sequelae, (3) grade B: fistula requiring any therapeutic intervention, or (4) grade C: fistula with severe clinical sequelae. Grades B and C are considered clinically relevant fistulas based on worsening morbidity, increased length of stay, frequent hospital readmission, and increased costs/resource utilization. Clinical and economic outcomes were compared—grade for grade—across the three resection types. Fistulas of any extent (Grades A–C) occurred in one third of all patients; two thirds had no fistula. Overall, there were 16 readmissions (6%), six reoperations (2%), and no deaths attributable to pancreatic fistula. Outcomes between no fistula and grade A patients were identical across resection types, though grade A fistula was more common in distal pancreatectomy. For each resection type, length of stay and costs progressively increased with grades B and C. However, the negative impact of these clinically relevant fistulas varied between resection types. Rates for intensive care unit admission and rehabilitation placement were higher among pancreaticoduodenectomy patients. Total parenteral nutrition and antibiotic use were similar, but percutaneous drainage was used more often for distal pancreatectomy. Grade B fistula was more severe after distal pancreatectomy, as indicated by increased length of stay, readmissions, and total cost. Although reoperation rates for grade C fistulas were equivalent, intervals to reoperation were substantially longer after distal and central pancreatectomies. When classified according to International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula criteria, clinically relevant pancreatic fistulas behaved differently depending on type of pancreatectomy. This translates into variable severity that guides management decisions, which ultimately dictate clinical outcomes and economic impact.
Does Public or Not-for-Profit Status Affect the Earnings of Hospital Workers?

This paper examines the earnings differentials among hospital workers in the public, private nonprofit, and private for-profit sectors. Utilizing data from the 1995 through 2007 Current Population Surveys, unadjusted earnings are highest in the private nonprofit sector and lowest in private for-profit firms. Once measurable characteristics are accounted for, health practitioners in for-profit and nonprofit hospitals earn similar wages while public sector workers earn small but significant wage penalties. Nonprofit hospitals tend to attract workers with higher levels of skill as measured by schooling and potential experience. This could be explained in part by worker sorting and lower cost containment incentives in nonprofit hospitals. Wage change analysis using pooled 2-year panels constructed from the CPS indicate no significant differences in earnings between the three sectors of employment. Whatever the role of the sector of employment on the overall earnings of hospital workers, there is sufficient worker mobility within the industry to largely eliminate systematic wage differences across type of hospital.
Intervening with African-Americans: Culturally Specific Practice Considerations

Social work interventions are best applied when tailored to meet the specific needs of the target population. Practice perspectives that foster resilience by integrating core African-American values serve to decrease psychosocial risks and promote positive coping and adaptation. This article describes models of risk and resilience and the Africentric perspective. The discussion then integrates these concepts to highlight the importance of Africentric approaches for promoting resilience. In addition to placing risk and resilience at the forefront, the Africentric perspective is explored as a framework for developing new practice interventions that promote resilience. These perspectives are integrated in proposing engagement, assessment, and intervention strategies that employ the Africentric perspective. A case example illustrates the application of strategies that are informed by this integrated perspective. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Codes of Ethical Conduct: A Bottom-Up Approach

Developing and implementing a meaningful code of conduct by managers or consultants may require a change in orientation that modifies the way these precepts are determined. The position advocated herein is for a different approach to understanding and organizing the guiding parameters of the firm that requires individual reflection and empowerment of the entire organization to advance their shared values. The processes involved are discussed using four discrete stages that move from the personal to the work team and to the unit to the full company, followed by the board of directors’ evaluation. The hoped-for end product is dynamic, employee-driven, codes of conduct that recognize the systemic and far-reaching impact of organizational activities across internal and external stakeholders. Operational details for and some issues associated with its implementation are also provided.
Improve wavelet transform spectrum measurement performance by means of variable mother function bandwidth parameter

This paper indicates that although wavelet transform is advantageous for transient signal analysis, it is difficult to apply for signal spectrum measurement due to its auto resolution adjustment ability that gives poor frequency resolution at high frequency and makes frequency spectrum unidentifiable. To overcome this shortfall, the paper proposes a new approach that replaces the constant Morlet wavelet mother function bandwidth parameter with a variable one, so that the expanding of bandwidth of Morlet wavelet transform is restricted in high frequency, resulting in better frequency resolution. The experimental signals are calculated spectrum with both original and improved Morlet wavelet transforms and the improvements of the spectrum measurement are obvious and accord well with the theoretical analysis of this paper.
Enhancing the fever workup utilizing a multi-technique modeling approach to diagnose infections more accurately.

Abstract Background: Differentiation between infectious and non-infectious etiologies of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) in trauma patients remains elusive. We hypothesized that mathematical modeling in combination with computerized clinical decision support would assist with this differentiation. The purpose of this study was to determine the capability of various mathematical modeling techniques to predict infectious complications in critically ill trauma patients and compare the performance of these models with a standard fever workup practice (identifying infections on the basis of fever or leukocytosis). Methods: An 18-mo retrospective database was created using information collected daily from critically ill trauma patients admitted to an academic surgical and trauma intensive care unit. Two hundred forty-three non-infected patient-days were chosen randomly to combine with the 243 infected-days, which created a modeling sample of 486 patient-days. Utilizing ten variables known to ...
Photothermal actuation in nanomechanical waveguide devices

We analyze the photothermal response of nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) integrated in a silicon photonic circuit over a wide frequency range. The dynamic response of NEMS devices is studied using a two-color pump-probe scheme in an on-chip photonic Mach–Zehnder interferometer. The measured response is composed of three contributions: (i) the mechanical response of the NEMS device, (ii) the thermal response of the substrate due to diffusive heating, and (iii) self-heating of the NEMS beam. Analytical and numerical studies of the self-heating effect reveal a first-order thermal roll-off behavior in close agreement with experimental results. Device actuation due to self-heating of the beam is shown to dominate other effects at low frequencies, while an exponential roll-off with 20 dB per decade at high frequencies is observed.
On the solution of some (parametric) linear complementarity problems with applications to portfolio selection, structural engineering and actuarial graduation

In this paper we discuss three applications of a class of (parametric) linear complementarity problems arising independently from such diverse areas as portfolio selection, structural engineering and actuarial graduation. After explaining how the complementarity problems emerge in these applications, we perform some analytical comparisons (based on operation counts and storage requirements) of several existing algorithms for solving this class of complementarity problems. We shall also present computational results to support the analytical comparisons. Finally, we deduce some conclusions about the general performance of these algorithms.
Induction of neurofilament triplet proteins in PC12 cells by nerve growth factor

The localization of neurofilament triplet proteins in PC12 cells grown in the absence of (PC12-) or maintained in the presence of (PC12+) nerve growth factor (NGF) was studied using indirect immunofluorescence and monospecific, immunosorbent purified antibodies to 68,000 (P68), 150,000 (P150) and 200,000 (P200) dalton neurofilament proteins. The intensity of immunofluorescent staining of the triplet proteins was always greater in PC12+ compared with PC12-cells. Neuritic staining was seen in PC12+ cells with all 3 monospecific antibodies to neurofilament proteins. However, the perikaryal distribution of each of the neurofilament proteins differed in both PC12+ and PC12-cells. Monospecific antibodies to P68 protein yielded a 'ball-like' cytoplasmic staining pattern whereas monospecific antibodies by P150 protein stained in a stippled pattern. Monospecific antibodies to P200 on the other hand diffusely stained the perikaryal cytoplasm with very faint but detectable foci of 'ball-like' configurations and stippling. Electron microscopic study of PC12+ and PC12-cells revealed intermediate filaments in the cell bodies of both as well as in the processes of the former. 'Ball-like' clusters of such filaments were rarely seen. However, these filaments lacked the three-dimensional organization typical of intact neurofilaments. It is concluded that PC12 cells contain dissociated or incompletely assembled immunoreactive neurofilament triplet proteins and that these proteins can be induced by NGF. The PC12 cells are therefore an attractive model system not only for studies of neuronal differentiation but also for studies of neurofilament metabolism and disorders thereof.
One-dimensional time-dependent capacitor model of breakdown in DBDs at atmospheric pressure

Abstract Breakdown in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure is shown computationally to closely resemble breakdown in a series of small capacitors, which can be described by simple analytic equations. The ‘time-dependent capacitor model’ captures the physics of breakdown and is an accurate and efficient simulation tool.
Construction of transgenic mice with tissue-specific acceleration of mitochondrial DNA mutagenesis.

Transgenic mice having rapid accumulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations specifically in the heart were created. These mice contained a transgene encoding a proofreading-deficient, mouse mitochondrial DNA polymerase (pol γ) driven by the promoter for the cardiac-specific α-myosin heavy chain. Starting shortly after birth greater than 95% of all pol γ mRNA in the heart was transgene derived; expression in other tissues was low or absent. Mutations in cardiac mtDNA began to accumulate by 7 days after birth. At 1 month of age the frequency of point mutations was 0.014% as determined by DNA sequencing of cloned mtDNA. By long-extension PCR multiple different deletion mutations that had removed several thousand basepairs of genomic sequence were also detected. Sequencing of two deletion molecules showed that one was flanked at the breakpoint by direct repeat sequences. The expression of proofreading-deficient pol γ had no apparent deleterious effect on mitochondrial DNA and protein content, gene expression, or respiratory function. However, associated with the rise in mtDNA mutation levels was the development of cardiomyopathy as evidenced by enlarged hearts in the transgenic mice. These mice may prove to be useful models to study the pathogenic effects of elevated levels of mitochondrial DNA mutations in specific tissues.
Phospholipids of menhaden muscle.

The phospholipids of menhaden fish muscle represent about 0.5% of the wet weight. They were separated by fractionation on a silica gel column. Choline glycerophosphatides were the major components, about 60%. Ethanolamine and serine glycerophosphatides accounted for about 20%, and sphingomyelin and less well-characterized components for the rest. The fatty acid composition of the CGP,1 EGP1 + SGP,1 and triglyceride preparations were compared. The EGP + SGP fraction contained 20% stearic acid whereas the neutral or CGP fractions had only 2–4%. The phospholipids contained about 30% of docosa-hexaenoic acids compared to about 10% in the neutral fraction.
Measurement of the 26Mg(p, n)26 Alg (7.2 × 105) yr cross section via accelerator mass spectrometry☆

Abstract The new technique of accelerator mass spectrometry was successfully applied to measure the 26 Mg(p, n) 26 Al g (7.2 × 10 5 yr) cross section for proton energies E p = 5.2−6.9 MeV. This cross section thar threshold is of astrophysical interest because of the recently observed 26 Mg excess in meteoritic material and its bearing on the early solar system.
Expression of the Axd (axial defects) mutation in the mouse is insensitive to retinoic acid at low dose.

The Axd mutation in the mouse acts by an unknown mechanism to cause lum-bosacral open neural tube defects and a variety of tail anomalies. Retinoic acid (RA) plays a number of different physiological and developmental roles and has been shown to affect neurulation in mice and other species. Indeed, reports have shown that this biologically active compound (or its metabolites) at low dose can alter the incidence of neural tube defects (NTD) in curly-tail (ct), splotch (Sp), and delayed splotch (Spd) mice, strains that are genetically predisposed to such abnormalities. The aim of the present study was to determine if RA administered under similar conditions would affect the penetrance or expression of the Axd mutation or survival of Axd homozygotes. Axd/+ and +/+ dams were exposed to RA intraperitoneally (5 mg/kg) on D9 postcoitus. No difference in incidence or extent of neural tube defects or other axial anomalies was detected among embryos of Axd/+ dams given RA compared with those administered vehicle only. This finding is consistent with the diversity of gene-controlled steps required for neurulation and the differing sensitivities of specific mutants to rescue by extrinsic agents.
Risk Clusters, Hotspots, and Spatial Intelligence: Risk Terrain Modeling as an Algorithm for Police Resource Allocation Strategies

The study reported here follows the suggestion by Caplan et al. (Justice Q, 2010) that risk terrain modeling (RTM) be developed by doing more work to elaborate, operationalize, and test variables that would provide added value to its application in police operations. Building on the ideas presented by Caplan et al., we address three important issues related to RTM that sets it apart from current approaches to spatial crime analysis. First, we address the selection criteria used in determining which risk layers to include in risk terrain models. Second, we compare the “best model” risk terrain derived from our analysis to the traditional hotspot density mapping technique by considering both the statistical power and overall usefulness of each approach. Third, we test for “risk clusters” in risk terrain maps to determine how they can be used to target police resources in a way that improves upon the current practice of using density maps of past crime in determining future locations of crime occurrence. This paper concludes with an in depth exploration of how one might develop strategies for incorporating risk terrains into police decision-making. RTM can be developed to the point where it may be more readily adopted by police crime analysts and enable police to be more effectively proactive and identify areas with the greatest probability of becoming locations for crime in the future. The targeting of police interventions that emerges would be based on a sound understanding of geographic attributes and qualities of space that connect to crime outcomes and would not be the result of identifying individuals from specific groups or characteristics of people as likely candidates for crime, a tactic that has led police agencies to be accused of profiling. In addition, place-based interventions may offer a more efficient method of impacting crime than efforts focused on individuals.
Entanglement-preserving photonic switching: Demonstration of full cross-bar operation with 25-GHz capability

We present an all-optical, fiber-based quantum switch that operates at high speeds with low loss and-most importantly-retains the incident photons' quantum state, thereby making it useful for applications in quantum communications.
Forensic psychology: perception of guilt and income.

Introductory psychology students (N = 193) served as Ss in an investigation of the effect of a defendant's home address on the verdict returned after reading a contrived burglary case. Ss perceived...
Differential effects of amygdala, orbital prefrontal cortex, and prelimbic cortex lesions on goal-directed behavior in rhesus macaques.

We assessed the involvement of the orbital prefrontal cortex (PFo), the prelimbic region of the medial prefrontal cortex (PL), and the amygdala in goal-directed behavior. Rhesus monkeys were trained on a task in which two different instrumental responses were linked to two different outcomes. One response, called “tap,” required the monkeys to repeatedly touch a colored square on a video monitor to produce one kind of food reward. The other response, called “hold,” required persistent contact of an identical stimulus, and it produced a different kind of food reward. After training, we assessed the effects of sensory-specific reinforcer devaluation as a way to probe each monkey's use of goal-directed behavior. In this procedure, monkeys were allowed to consume one of the two foods to satiety and were then tested for tap/hold preference under extinction. Unoperated control monkeys showed a reduction in the response associated with obtaining the devalued food, called the “devaluation effect,” a hallmark of goal-directed behavior. Monkeys with bilateral lesions of PFo or the amygdala exhibited significantly reduced devaluation effects. Results from monkeys with PL lesions were equivocal. We conclude that both PFo and the amygdala play a significant role in goal-directed behavior in monkeys. Notably, the findings for PFo challenge the idea that orbital and medial prefrontal regions are exclusively dedicated to object- and action-based processes, respectively.
Everybody Wants Secularism—But Which One? Contesting Definitions of Secularism in Contemporary Turkey

This paper discusses the varied perceptions of secularism both in its general meaning and its specific implementation in Turkey—the first Muslim country that has the principle of secularism in its constitution. Initially giving the various understandings of the concept of secularism in Western academia, this paper contrasts those views with the implementation of Turkish secularism—laiklik—specifically in the light of the 2008 case of closure against the conservative ruling party by the staunchly secularist Chief Prosecutor. A close reading of the indictment and the ruling party’s defense will be done in order to highlight the differences between each part’s perceptions of secularism.
Endogenous estrogen modulates phenothiazine stimulated prolactin secretion.

The role of endogenous estrogen in the regulation of serum prolactin concentration inman is controversial. To evaluate the possible effect of endogenous fluctuations in serum estrogenon the regulation of prolactin secretion, the authors determined phenothiazine stimulated prolactin secretion in 12 normal women in the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle when estrogen levels were low (mean ± SE E1 + E2 = 82 ± 7 pg/ml) and compared it to the response during the late follicular phase when estrogen levels were higher (mean E1+E2 = 320 ± 63 pg/ml). Mean basal serum prolactin concentrations were similarin the early and late follicular phases of the cycle (17± 4 and 20 ± 2 ng/ml, respectively). The integrated prolactin response following phenothiazine administration was significantly higher at mid-cycle (402 ± 46 ng ·hr/ ml) than in the early follicular phase (317 ± 46 ng hr/ml, P < 02). Thus, these studies suggest that endogenous estrogen secretion may play a role in the regulation of serum prolactin c...
Glomerular tubular balance in preterm and fullterm infants.

Aperia, A., Broberger, O., Broberger, U., Herin, P. and Zetterstrom, R. (Departments of Paediatrics, Karolinska Institute, St. Goran's Children's Hospital, Huddinge Hospital and Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden). Glomeruiar tubular balance in preterm and full-term infants. Acta Paediatr Scand, Suppl. 305: 70–76, 1983.—The development of glomeruiar and tubular function was studied in preterm and full-term infants of varying gestational and postnatal age. The results indicate that glomeruiar functional development precedes tubular functional development until the 34th postmenstrual week. After the 34th week the tubular transport capacity seems to be more vulnerable than the glomeruiar filtration rate in states of disease. The release of a postulated renal vasoconstriction could account for the rapid changes in renal function after birth. The purpose of such a vasoconstriction could be to protect the tubules from an overload.
Optimized preload leakage-correction methods to improve the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic susceptibility-weighted contrast-enhanced perfusion MR imaging in posttreatment gliomas.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) accuracy can vary substantially depending on the dynamic susceptibility-weighted contrast-enhanced (DSC) acquisition and postprocessing methods, due to blood-brain barrier disruption and resulting T1-weighted leakage and T2- and/or T2*-weighted imaging (T2/T2*WI) residual effects. We set out to determine optimal DSC conditions that address these errors and maximize rCBV accuracy in differentiating posttreatment radiation effect (PTRE) and tumor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We recruited patients with previously treated high-grade gliomas undergoing image-guided re-resection of recurrent contrast-enhancing MR imaging lesions. Thirty-six surgical tissue samples were collected from 11 subjects. Preoperative 3T DSC used 6 sequential evenly timed acquisitions, each by using a 0.05-mmol/kg gadodiamide bolus. Preload dosing (PLD) and baseline subtraction (BLS) techniques corrected T1-weighted leakage and T2/T2*WI residual effects, respectively. PLD amount and incubation time increased with each sequential acquisition. Corresponding tissue specimen stereotactic locations were coregistered to DSC to measure localized rCBV under varying PLD amounts, incubation times, and the presence of BLS. rCBV thresholds were determined to maximize test accuracy (average of sensitivity and specificity) in distinguishing tumor ( n = 21) and PTRE ( n = 15) samples under the varying conditions. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) areas under the curve (AUCs) were statistically compared. RESULTS: The protocol that combined PLD (0.1-mmol/kg amount, 6-minute incubation time) and BLS correction methods maximized test AUC (0.99) and accuracy (95.2%) compared with uncorrected rCBV AUC (0.85) and accuracy (81.0%) measured without PLD and BLS ( P = .01). CONCLUSIONS: Combining PLD and BLS correction methods for T1-weighted and T2/T2*WI errors, respectively, enables highly accurate differentiation of PTRE and tumor growth.
Ten Years Experience with Eye Wall Resection for Uveal Malignant Melanomas

Abstract Thirty-four patients underwent eye wall resection for choroidal malignant melanoma over a period of more than ten years. Of these, 11 eyes were later enucleated for complications. Average mean follow-up has been more than 5.3 years. Postoperative visual acuity ranged from light perception to 20/30. Two patients developed liver metastasis 4 years following eye wall resection and later died. However, no local metastasis has been observed. Two patients died from unrelated causes.
Patient variability in intraoperative ultrasonographic characteristics of colorectal liver metastases

Objective To determine the distribution of echogenicity (hypoechoic, isoechoic, or hyperechoic) and predominant intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) echogenic appearance of colorectal liver metastasis. The interpatient and intrapatient variability of tumor IOUS echogenicity was assessed. Design Retrospective review of prospectively collected database. Setting Tertiary cancer center. Patients Between January 1998 and July 2001, 99 patients (194 tumors) underwent hepatic resection for colorectal metastases. Main Outcome Measures During surgery, IOUS of the liver was performed and the images were digitally recorded. Images were randomly coded, blindly reviewed, and scored for echogenicity and ultrasonographic appearance pattern. Results The ultrasonographic appearance of the colorectal liver metastasis was hypoechoic in 52.0%, isoechoic in 35.7%, and hyperechoic in 12.3% of cases. Most colorectal liver metastases appeared homogeneous (50.8%). Less commonly, identified lesions were characterized by a target or “bull’s-eye” appearance (20%) or contained calcifications (19%). Clinicopathologic characteristics, including patient age and sex, as well as tumor size, number, and location and presence of hepatic steatosis, did not correlate with tumor echogenicity or ultrasonographic appearance pattern (allP > .05). Lesions within patients were more similar in echogenicity than lesions between patients (P Conclusions The ultrasonographic characteristics of hepatic metastases within patients were more similar than between patients. Such information is important because it suggests that, in patients with more than 1 metastasis, the echogenic appearance of an index lesion may predict the echogenic appearance of additional occult disease.
Toward the development of a general chiral auxiliary. 9. Highly diastereoselective alkylations and acylations to form tertiary and quaternary centers.

Enolates of a new camphor-derived lactam auxiliary are shown to monoalkylate with very high diastereoselectivity. A second alkylation occurs with reactive alkylating agents to afford quaternary centers also with high diastereoselectivity. In accord with a proposed model for diastereoselection, lithium and sodium enolates provide products with an opposite sense of asymmetric induction.
Lateral Spread Hazard Mapping of the Northern Salt Lake Valley, Utah, for a M7.0 Scenario Earthquake

Abstract This paper describes the methodology used to develop a lateral spread-displacement hazard map for northern Salt Lake Valley, Utah, using a scenario M7.0 earthquake occurring on the Salt Lake City segment of the Wasatch fault. The mapping effort is supported by a substantial amount of geotechnical, geologic, and topographic data compiled for the Salt Lake Valley, Utah. ArcGIS® routines created for the mapping project then input this information to perform site-specific lateral spread analyses using methods developed by Bartlett and Youd (1992) and Youd et. al. (2002) at individual borehole locations. The distributions of predicted lateral spread displacements from the boreholes located spatially within a geologic unit were subsequently used to map the hazard for that particular unit. The mapped displacement zones consist of low hazard (0–0.1 m), moderate hazard (0.1–0.3 m), high hazard (0.3–1.0 m), and very high hazard (>1.0 m). As expected, the produced map shows the highest hazard in the alluvia...
Increasing physical function through physiatric intervention for children with paediatric neurotransmitter disorders

Most children with paediatric neurotransmitter diseases have global functional deficits secondary to central nervous system damage. Paediatric physiatrists, working in conjunction with a multi-disciplinary team, help to improve physical function by normalizing muscle tone and improving body position. Components of spasticity, rigidity, and dystonia may all need to be considered in a comprehensive treatment programme. Complications of disordered tone include skin breakdown, pain, sleep disturbance, and dysphagia. With an integrated approach to use of medications and equipment as well as implementation of therapy and therapeutic exercise, physiatrists can help maximize functional independence for children with this group of disorders. Pharmacological treatment includes GABA-agonists including baclofen and benzodiazepines, alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, l-dopa and dopaminergic agents, and dantrolene. Intrathecal baclofen may be used in patients refractory to these medications. In addition, physicians may utilize botulinum toxin, phenol, or surgical interventions such as selective dorsal rhizotomy or tendon lengthening. Pharmacological treatment must be used in conjunction with appropriate adaptive equipment in order to maximize therapeutic benefit. Focus on function in an attempt to increase independence is targeted to improve the child′s quality of life. We present a framework and rationale to the management of the functional consequences of the paediatric neurotransmitter diseases.
Application of 19F nuclear magnetic resonance to examine covalent modification reactions of tyrosyl derivatives: a study of calcineurin catalysis.

Abstract The hydrolysis of fluorotyrosine phosphate by the calmodulin-activated phosphatase calcineurin has been monitored by 19F nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Previous work had established that the 19F nuclear magnetic resonance shift of the fluorine nucleus was altered after the phosphorylation of the phenolic hydroxyl group (B. Martin, C. J. Pallen, J. H. Wang, and D. J. Graves (1985) J. Biol. Chem.260, 14592–14597) . The disappearance of substrate and the appearance of product can be measured simultaneously with this approach. Application of the integrated form of the Michaelis-Menten equation yields estimates of the kinetic parameter, KM, close to the values obtained by initial rate kinetics. The velocity term, VM, was also evaluated to be approximately the same value. Calcineurin was determined not to be inactivated over the time period of the reaction. The results demonstrate that 19F nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy can be applied to the examination of enzyme-catalyzed reactions.
Quantitative dose-response of Prunus fruit decay fungi to gamma irradiation

Abstract The dose response of selected Prunus fruit decay fungi to inactivation of their colony-forming potential by gamma irradiation was studied in tests here reported. Included were Monilinia fructicola (Wint.) Honey; Botrytis cinerea Pers.; Cladosporium sp.; Penicillium expansum Link; Rhizopus stolonifer (Ehr. ex Fr.) Vuill.; and Gilbertella persicaria (Eddy) Hesseltine. Dose inactivation curves were established for spores in vitro. “End point” studies provided an experimental estimation of the doses required to permanently inactivate all fungus cells in a high proportion of lesions. Thus, colony inactivation doses for 50, 80, and 90 per cent lethality were approximated for fungus populations of ca. 10 to 106 spores of all species irradiated in vitro. Similar data were obtained for the most destructive species after irradiation and incubation in their fruit host. Application of radiation as a tool for estimating the size of naturally occurring fruit lesions in terms of “spore equivalents” was suggested by results with inoculated fruits. A delay in colonization caused by radiation doses insufficient to permanently inactivate fungus lesions may provide a satisfactory control of decay in fruits having a short physiological life.
TRAF6 ubiquitin ligase is essential for RANKL signaling and osteoclast differentiation

Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), the crucial adaptor molecule of receptor activator of NF-kappaB (RANK), plays an essential role in governing the formation of multi-nucleated osteoclasts. TRAF6 is a RING-dependent ubiquitin (Ub) ligase that in conjunction with Ubc13/Uev1A catalyzes its own auto-ubiquitination via Lys63-linked poly-Ub chains. While the receptor-adaptor function of TRAF6 in RANK signaling is well understood, the significance of its Ub ligase activity in this process remains largely unknown. In this study, we show that retroviral expression of TRAF6, but not a RING mutant of TRAF6 was able to rescue TRAF6-deficient monocytes for the activation of IKK and osteoclast differentiation by RANKL. Furthermore, a catalytically inactive Ubc13 or stable knockdown of Ubc13 significantly prevents RANK-mediated TRAF6 ubiquitination and NF-kappaB and JNK activation. These data establish a signaling cascade in which regulated Lys63-linked TRAF6 auto-ubiquitination is the critical upstream mediator of osteoclast differentiation.
Mechanical design, instrumentation and measurements from a hemoacoustic cardiac phantom

In this paper we discuss the design of an acoustic phantom, instrumented with acoustic sensors that is employed to validate computational hemoacoustic models (CHM) and develop/test generative (model based) statistical pattern recognition algorithms for abnormal heart conditions. The phantom of the human thorax incorporates key elements of the physical heart/thorax system.
Formation Evaluation With Shear And Compressional Logs

Shear and compressional velocities have the promise of increasing our formation evaluation potential from seismic data. If we wish to determine numerous physical properties (lithology, porosity, shale fraction, etc.) about the subsurface from seismic data, then considerable calibration of shear and compressional data is required. Such calibration is available by comparing shear and compressional logs with standard formation evaluation products, namely neutron-density and gamma ray logs. Such log comparison allows multi-variable analysis of shear and compressional velocities against the independent variables of sand, limestone, dolomite, porosity, and shale fraction. Fractured reservoirs are distinguishable in some cases, but not always. Other ambiguities exist in specific reservoirs. Examples of velocity vs porosity and VJV, against porosity are compared with published functions. The variation in VJV, against porosity is shown to be a result of the ratio of two linear functions (V, and V,). Limitations of shear and compressional measurements can be vividly understood by comparisons between full waveform logs (VP and VI) with log derived lithology, porosity, and fluid content. Nuclear logs from Pitchfork #93 are shown in Figure 2. The raw data has been averaged over 2 foot increments as to make the voluminous dataset legible in reduced figures. The gamma indicates natural formation ray log radioactivity, which is normally assumed to indicate shale zones. The Tensleep is all fairly "clean" (low APIU) and consists of cross-bedded sandstones and minor carbonate beds. The Phosphoria and Dinwoody are highly variable formations, consisting of shaly sands marine carbonates and some salts. The density log measures induced gamma ray scatterinq, which yields bulk density. Assuminq fluid saturated limestone (p, = 2.7I gm/cc, p, = 1.0 am/cc) oorositv is derived from the densitv log. a Theneutron log is calibrated to read watei filled porosity in limestone. At each depth level we can determine three unknowns from these three apparent porosity measurements; shale fraction (V,,), matrix type (sandstone, limestone, or dolomite), and true porosity (4).
Formation of Ethinyl Estradiol in Women during Treatment with Norethindrone Acetate

Context: The significance of the conversion of norethindrone acetate (NET-A), a commonly prescribed, synthetic, oral progestogen, to ethinyl estradiol (EE2) is controversial. Objective: We sought to determine accurately the extent to which NET-A may be converted to EE2, and if so, whether circulating levels of EE2 would be of clinical significance. Design, Subjects, and Interventions: We administered NET-A 10, 20, or 40 mg once daily for 7 d to 20 regularly menstruating premenopausal women and measured NET-A and EE2 levels before drug intake; at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 24 h after the first dose; and 2 h after the seventh dose. Results: The mean EE2 maximum serum concentration obtained from the 10-, 20-, and 40-mg doses of NET-A in this study is 58, 178, and 231 pg/ml, respectively. The conversion ratio of NET-A to EE2 ranged from 0.20 to 0.33% for the different doses. Conclusions: NET-A is converted to EE2, and although the conversion rate is relatively small, higher doses of NET-A, as used clinically, give rise ...
Appraisal of tree planting options to control desertification: experiences from Three-North Shelterbelt Programme

SUMMARY A range of afforestation models have been developed to combat desertification in China. These models stress the integration of tree planting with other land-uses to reduce risks and produce multiple benefits. This paper describes how cost-benefit analysis can be used to select and choose between these models, taking into account the different time periods between planting and harvesting of trees and other crops. It also describes how the costs of desertification can be included in the cost-benefit analysis. The results show that most of the agroforestry and productive plantation models are financially viable, but that the revegetation models are not financially viable. However, the revegetation models could be economically justified, depending on the rate of increase in desert area. If the rate of increase is high enough to justify revegetation, the financial results of the analysis can be used to indicate the incentive that would be required to make these models financially attractive.
Love and Annihilation in Calvino's Qfwfq Tales

(1988). Love and Annihilation in Calvino's Qfwfq Tales. Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction: Vol. 30, No. 1, pp. 59-68.
Inferior rectal nerve variations as it relates to pudendal block

The fact that the inferior rectal nerve may have an independent origin from the sacral plexus is acknowledged in most current anatomy texts. That it may pierce the sacrospinous ligament well medial to the ischial spine is no longer mentioned. This variation which may occur in as many as 20% of the sides examined, could present a problem in pudendal block.
Preserving And Strengthening Medicare

Abstract: Any restructuring or reform of Medicare should first and foremost preserve the integrity of the program. Contrary to current rhetoric, Medicare offers mainstream medical care for the most difficult-to-insure Americans, and over the past ten years its record of holding down costs has been better than that of the private insurance sector. For the very long term, when demographic changes place even greater pressures on Medicare, all dimensions of the program need to be considered in the search for a long-range solution, including asking beneficiaries and/or taxpayers to contribute more to the program. Expansion of managed care choices should certainly be part of any restructuring, but careful attention to improving the basic fee-for-service Medicare program—which will continue to serve a majority of beneficiaries for many years to come—also is needed.
RELAXING ASSUMPTIONS OF PERFECT INFORMATION IN PARK VISITATION MODELS

Variables related to urban park awareness are identified and methods for relaxing assumptions of perfect information in park use models are discussed. Park awareness is related to park characteristics (age and degree of development of the park), population characteristics (race, age, length of residence, recreation participation), and distance. Park attributes are stronger predictors of both park awareness and use than is distance. These findings parallel similar research on the cognitive aspects of shopping decisions.