cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
How accurate is the medical record? A comparison of the physician’s note with a concealed audio recording in unannounced standardized patient encounters

Objectives Accurate documentation in the medical record is essential for quality care; extensive documentation is required for reimbursement. At times, these 2 imperatives conflict. We explored the concordance of information documented in the medical record with a gold standard measure. Materials and methods We compared 105 encounter notes to audio recordings covertly collected by unannounced standardized patients from 36 physicians, to identify discrepancies and estimate the reimbursement implications of billing the visit based on the note vs the care actually delivered. Results There were 636 documentation errors, including 181 charted findings that did not take place, and 455 findings that were not charted. Ninety percent of notes contained at least 1 error. In 21 instances, the note justified a higher billing level than the gold standard audio recording, and in 4, it underrepresented the level of service (P = .005), resulting in 40 level 4 notes instead of the 23 justified based on the audio, a 74% inflated misrepresentation. Discussion While one cannot generalize about specific error rates based on a relatively small sample of physicians exclusively within the Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, the magnitude of the findings raise fundamental concerns about the integrity of the current medical record documentation process as an actual representation of care, with implications for determining both quality and resource utilization. Conclusion The medical record should not be assumed to reflect care delivered. Furthermore, errors of commission-documentation of services not actually provided-may inflate estimates of resource utilization.
Systems-Level Properties of EGFR-RAS-ERK Signaling Amplify Local Signals to Generate Dynamic Gene Expression Heterogeneity

Intratumoral heterogeneity is associated with aggressive tumor behavior, therapy resistance, and poor patient outcomes. Such heterogeneity is thought to be dynamic, shifting over periods of minutes to hours in response to signaling inputs from the tumor microenvironment. However, models of this process have been inferred from indirect or post-hoc measurements of cell state, leaving the temporal details of signaling-driven heterogeneity undefined. Here, we developed a live-cell model system in which microenvironment-driven signaling dynamics can be directly observed and linked to variation in gene expression. Our analysis reveals that paracrine signaling between two cell types is sufficient to drive continual diversification of gene expression programs. This diversification emerges from systems-level properties of the EGFR-RAS-ERK signaling cascade, including intracellular amplification of amphiregulin-mediated paracrine signals and differential kinetic filtering by target genes including Fra-1, c-Myc, and Egr1. Our data enable more precise modeling of paracrine-driven transcriptional variation as a generator of gene expression heterogeneity. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the Supplemental Information.
Dermatifitosis en niños, sus complicaciones en la salud y tratamientos

Las micosis superficiales constituyen uno de los problemas de salud a nivel mundial. Son infecciones causadas por hongos dermatofitos, microrganismos patogenos para el hombre, que estan distribuidos ampliamente en la naturaleza, pueden vivir en el organismo humano como saprofitos o parasitos. Las causas principales son las condiciones extrinsecas, como el entorno en donde interactuan los ninos y las intrinsecas, al referirse al sistema inmunologico deprimido. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar los tratamientos mas efectivos para la dermatofitosis que afectan a ninos de 5 a 7 anos mediante el estudio de los mecanismos de accion de los antifungicos que permitan la erradicacion de las micosis superficiales. La Metodologia empleada fue de enfoque cualitativo y con aplicacion del metodo analitico sintetico, que permitieron el cumplimiento de los objetivos planteados, al estudiar a los principales hongos causantes de estas micosis superficiales, especies de los Generos Epidermophyton, Microsporum y Trichophyton que dan lugar a cuadros clinicos leves hasta complejos cuando el tratamiento no es aplicado oportunamente, siendo los principales antifungicos demostrados con mayor efectividad para combatir las tinas en zona especificas de la piel: la terbinafina, itraconazol, fluconazol y la griseofulvina. Sobre las medidas de prevencion se reconocen las que estan fundamentalmente relacionadas con la sanidad y los estilos de vida de los individuos.
An Intramuscular DNA Vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 Decreases Viral Lung Load but Not Lung Pathology in Syrian Hamsters

The 2019 novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, first reported in December 2019, has infected over 102 million people around the world as of February 2021 and thus calls for rapid development of safe and effective interventions, namely vaccines. In our study, we evaluated a DNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 in the Syrian hamster model. Hamsters were vaccinated with a DNA-plasmid encoding the SARS-CoV-2 full length spike open reading frame (ORF) to induce host cells to produce spike protein and protective immune responses before exposure to infectious virus. We tested this vaccine candidate by both intranasal (IN) and intramuscular (IM) routes of administration and complexing with and without an in vivo delivery reagent. Hamsters receiving prime-boost-boost IM-only vaccinations recovered body weight quicker, had decreased lung viral loads, and increased SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody titers compared to control vaccinated animals but, surprisingly, lung pathology was as severe as sham vaccinated controls. The IM/IN combination group showed no efficacy in reducing lung virus titers or pathology. With increasing public health need for rapid and effective interventions, our data demonstrate that in some vaccine contexts, significant antibody responses and decreased viral loads may not be sufficient to prevent lung pathology.
Association between Depressive disorder and hospital outcomes of care for elderly hospitalized patients

Depressive disorder is the most prevalent mental health issue among the elderly. Researchers have studied associations between poor outcomes of health and depressive disorder. However, there is limited knowledge on the association of depressive disorder on hospital outcomes of care for patients admitted due to acute health problems. This study utilized a large dataset from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to examine associations between depressive disorder and (i) length of stay, (ii) hospital mortality, and (iii) hospital-acquired septicemia, for hospitalized Medicare patients 65 years and above. Bivariate analysis was firstly conducted between each one of the outcomes of interest and the depressive disorder variable, and then, to control for demographics, primary diagnosis, and comorbidities, multiple logistic regression was conducted for the binary outcomes (hospital mortality and hospital-acquired septicemia) and multiple linear regression for the continuous outcome, Length of Stay. After adjusting for patient gender, ethnicity, primary diagnosis, and comorbidities, the presence of depressive disorder in elderly Medicare patients was found to be associated with increased odds for hospital death (OR = 1.186, C. I = 1.030—1.365), and a shorter hospital length of stay (b = -.697, p < 0.001). Black race was found to be protective for death for patients with depressive disorder. Since depression has an effect on various behavioral aspects of patients, the increased risk for hospital death underlines the need for a holistic patient care approach for acute patients with depression, including psychologic support, effective patient-therapist communication, and patient empowerment.
Development of an etoposide prodrug that is selectively activated by rabbit carboxylesterase, for combination with irinotecan, in enzyme-prodrug activation approaches to therapy

1410 In principle, therapeutic approaches such as antibody- or viral-directed enzyme prodrug therapy (ADEPT or VDEPT) have the potential to achieve tumor cell-selective activation of prodrugs and to produce tumor-specific cytotoxicity. We demonstrated previously that rabbit liver carboxylesterase (rCE) efficiently activates the DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor irinotecan (CPT-11), and we are investigating the potential use of rCE/CPT-11 for VDEPT approaches to the treatment of neuroblastoma and other pediatric solid tumors. However, ADEPT and VDEPT approaches developed thus far are comprised of a single enzyme and a single prodrug; therefore, even if tumor cell-selectivity is achieved, these approaches comprise single agent therapy. One of the goals of our laboratories is to develop prodrugs of other mechanistic classes that are activated by rCE and that might be combined with CPT-11 to achieve tumor-selective combination therapy. Toward accomplishing this goal, we synthesized a series of etoposide prodrugs, and evaluated the activation of these prodrugs by purified CEs and by determining the IC50s of these compounds in SK-N-AS neuroblastoma cell lines transfected to express rCE or one of the two human CEs, hCE1 or hiCE (hCE2). A novel dipiperidine derivative of etoposide (dp-VP-16) was preferentially activated by rCE > hiCE > hCE1 in vitro. In transfected neuroblastoma cells, expression of rCE (581 units), hiCE (200 units), or hCE1 (394 units) decreased the IC50 of dp-VP-16 by 8.3-, 3.4-, and 0.9-fold, respectively. SK-N-ASpIRESrCE cells exposed sequentially to CPT-11 (10-9 - 10-4 M) for 4 hours followed by continuous exposure to the IC50 of dp-VP-16 decreased the IC50 of CPT-11 to 420 nM. This compared to an IC50 for CPT-11 alone of 21 microM for control-transfected SK-N-ASpIRESneo cells. Our data suggest that design of enzyme/prodrug systems with multiple prodrugs having complementary mechanisms of cytotoxicity merits further investigation.
Association Between Brain Substructure Dose and Cognitive Outcomes in Children With Medulloblastoma Treated on SJMB03: A Step Toward Substructure-Informed Planning.

PURPOSETo characterize the association between neurocognitive outcomes (memory and processing speed) and radiation (RT) dose to the hippocampus, corpus callosum (CC), and frontal white matter (WM) ...
Efficient key management protocols for mobile ad hoc networks

In this thesis, novel solutions are proposed for key management issues in mobile ad hoc networks. Presented Hierarchical Binary Tree (HBT) based model is distributed, self-organizing, scalable and does not employ online key distribution authority or group manager. Two different group authentication and group key establishment protocols are proposed for the users who form an ad hoc group with distributed trust model. Initially proposed protocols are based on public key cryptography and do not use specific algorithm. However, members can establish the keys faster with proposed customized hybrid scheme which combines elliptic curve cryptography, modular squaring operations and secret key encryption algorithm. Proposed HBT based model provides complete backward and forward security in case of modification in membership and it has comparable efficiency to the other HBT based schemes which employ real time key distribution authority. Mutual authentication and link encryption can be achieved in wireless sensor network only with public key cryptography if there are no pre-distributed keys. However, constraints in resources make fully public key operations not affordable on sensor. Three different authenticated key establishment protocols are proposed with an objective of being respectful to constraints. Sensor needs to make only modular or cyclic convolution multiplications, and expensive public key decryption operation is executed at the data processing station side. Schemes require small size of code and achieve the least sensor processing time in comparison with fully public key cryptography based protocols.
Technique for Interactive Computer Graphics in Design

Developments in computing software and hardware make it possible to consign more of the design labor to the computer than has been possible, and permit the designer to exercise more fully his role as policy maker. Formula manipulation computer languages which can be used to produce exact differentials of very large nonlinear expressions and interactive graphic terminals which make it possible to modify on-line the nonlinear programming problem representing a design situation permit structural designs to be generated by the computer which are complete in all respects, where all design parameters necessary to define the configurations can be used, and where building code provisions are used unchanged as the set of constraints. The architecture of a man-machine interactive system is presented which allows the designer to effectively mold the design with a light pen as it is being evolved by the computer with the NLP algorithm and which appears in effect as an animation on the scope. A case study of an optimally proportioned beam is given in tabular form.
Periportal fibrosis without cirrhosis does not affect outcomes after continuous flow ventricular assist device implantation

Abstract Objective This study investigates the relationship of periportal fibrosis on postoperative outcomes after ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation. Methods Between July 2005 and August 2014, a total of 233 patients were implanted with continuous flow VADs. Liver biopsy was performed on 16 patients with concern for liver disease. Survival was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The effect of fibrosis on length of stay (LOS) in the intensive care unit was modeled using Poisson regression. Adjustments were made for age, profile from the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support, biopsy, and model for end-stage liver disease score. Results Fourteen of the 16 patients who underwent biopsy had periportal fibrosis without cirrhosis. One-year survival for the groups with and without biopsy-proven fibrosis was 93% ± 7% and 86% ± 2% ( P = .97), respectively. The intensive care unit LOS was not different for those with (median, 7 days; interquartile range: 3-14 days) versus without fibrosis (median, 6 days; interquartile range 4-10 days; P = .65). Fibrosis ( P = .42), age (0.95), model for end-stage liver disease excluding internal normalized ratio–XI score ( P = .64), performance of a biopsy ( P = .28), and Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support class ( P = .70) were not associated with intensive care unit LOS. Risk was increased of gastrointestinal bleeding (14% vs 4%; P = .026) in the first year among patients with fibrosis. Conclusions The presence of periportal fibrosis did not affect survival or outcomes in patients undergoing VAD implantation. These findings suggest that carefully selected patients with advanced heart failure and hepatic fibrosis without cirrhosis may achieve acceptable outcomes with VAD implantation.
Rules of the Game: An Essay in Two Parts

Affirmative action is a tool by which institutions of higher education can gauge their excellence. In a large percentage of our universities, there is an enormous gap between the rhetoric of excellence and its reality. Educators have grown uncertain about the social and intellectual purposes of the enterprise; some no longer care enough to give their very best. Our society likes to claim that it is devoted to equality and social change. It has an educational system designed to preserve that contradiction by institutionalizing the rhetoric of change to preserve social stasis.
Left intraperitoneal hernia

Abstract A case of a large left intraperitoneal herniation of practically all of the jejunum and ileum is reported in detail.
Solution structure of Cu6 metallothionein from the fungus Neurospora crassa.

The 3D-solution structure of Neurospora crassa Cu6-metallothionein (NcMT) polypeptide backbone was determined using homonuclear, multidimensional 1H-NMR spectroscopy. It represents a new metallothionein (MT) fold with a protein chain where the N-terminal half is left-handed and the C-terminal half right-handedly folded around a copper(I)-sulfur cluster. As seen with other MTs, the protein lacks definable secondary structural elements; however, the polypeptide fold is unique. The metal coordination and the cysteine spacing defines this unique fold. NcMT is only the second MT in the copper-bound form to be structurally characterized and the first containing the -CxCxxxxxCxC- motif. This motif is found in a variety of mammalian MTs and metalloregulatory proteins. The in vitro formation of the Cu6NcMT identical to the native Cu6NcMT was dependent upon the prior formation of the Zn3NcMT and its titration with Cu(I). The enhanced sensitivity and resolution of the 800 MHz 1H-NMR spectral data permitted the 3D structure determination of the polypeptide backbone without the substitution and utilization of the NMR active spin 1/2 metals such as 113Cd and 109Ag. These restraints have been necessary to establish specific metal to cysteine restraints in 3D structural studies on this family of proteins when using lower field, less sensitive 1H-NMR spectral data. The accuracy of the structure calculated without these constraints is, however, supported by the similarities of the 800 MHz structures of the α-domain of mouse MT1 compared to the one recalculated without metal–cysteine connectivities.
Effects of nonuniform column packing in analytical gel chromatography. I. Monodisperse solutes.

Abstract The effect of nonuniform column packing on solute profile shapes in analytical gel chromatography has been investigated for monodisperse solutes. This investigation considers the influence of a family of nonuniform partition cross sections on the concentration profiles for small-zone experiments. The nonuniformity causes the dispersive and translational transport coefficients to be functions of position. It is shown that for presently encountered amounts of nonuniformity, the principal effect is in the deviation of peak position from linear dependence on time. There is very little effect on peak shape, when concentrations are expressed in terms of bulk solution values.
Application of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry in the Determination of Calcium in Serum

Atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) was applied to the determination of serum calcium. A special diluent was developed to abolish the effect of absorption depressors. This made possible measurement of calcium in directly diluted serum samples without prior removal of any serum constituents. Values obtained by AAS on calcium oxalate precipitates from serum were identical with those found by the direct dilution technique.
Tractable learning for structured probability spaces: a case study in learning preference distributions

Probabilistic sentential decision diagrams (PSDDs) are a tractable representation of structured probability spaces, which are characterized by complex logical constraints on what constitutes a possible world. We develop general-purpose techniques for probabilistic reasoning and learning with PSDDs, allowing one to compute the probabilities of arbitrary logical formulas and to learn PSDDs from incomplete data. We illustrate the effectiveness of these techniques in the context of learning preference distributions, to which considerable work has been devoted in the past. We show, analytically and empirically, that our proposed framework is general enough to support diverse and complex data and query types. In particular, we show that it can learn maximum-likelihood models from partial rankings, pairwise preferences, and arbitrary preference constraints. Moreover, we show that it can efficiently answer many queries exactly, from expected and most likely rankings, to the probability of pairwise preferences, and diversified recommendations. This case study illustrates the effectiveness and flexibility of the developed PSDD framework as a domain-independent tool for learning and reasoning with structured probability spaces.
Chipless RFID Tag

One key element of a chipless RFID system is the tag. Since it is chipless, it acts both as the scatterer and encoder. As the scatterer, it needs to reradiate the incident field as much as possible in order to maximize signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the reader. As the encoder, it needs to encode a high density of data on the backscattered signal. There are some challenges in attaining all desired characteristics of the tag as the scatterer and encoder altogether. Although many designs have been proposed as chipless RFID tags, they can be categorized into two general groups [1].
Characterization of FibreChannel over highly turbulent optical wireless links

We report on the performance characterization and issues associated with using Fibre Channel (FC) over a highly turbulent free-space optical (FSO) link. Fibre Channel is a storage area network standard that provides high throughput with low overhead. Extending FC to FSO links would simplify data transfer from existing high-bandwidth sensors such as synthetic aperture radars and hyperspectral imagers. We measured the behavior of FC protocol at 1 Gbps in the presence of synthetic link dropouts that are typical of turbulent FSO links. Results show that an average bit error rate of less than 2 x 10{sup -8} is mandatory for adequate throughput. More importantly, 10 ns dropouts at a 2 Hz rate were sufficient to cause long (25 s) timeouts in the data transfer. Although no data was lost, this behavior is likely to be objectionable for most applications. Prospects for improvements in hardware and software will be discussed.
The properties and interrelationship of oxaluric and parabanic acids.

Abstract Conditions for the hydrolysis of parabanic to oxaluric acid and to urea and oxalic acid have been studied by means of both titration and ultraviolet absorption data. These studies show that at room temperature free parabanic acid slowly changes to oxaluric acid whereas the salts of the former change to the latter in a few minutes. The splitting of oxaluric acid to oxalic acid and urea is a slower process. Parabanic acid behaves as a monobasic acid with a p K value of 6.10. Oxaluric acid also shows only one inflection of its titration curve at an approximate pH of 2.0. In this it somewhat resembles oxalic acid (p K 1 = 1.4) but lacks any second constant corresponding to the K 2 value of oxalic acid at 4.3.
Cone-Derived Waveriders with Longitudinal Curvature

Lifting-body waverider configurations with longitudinal curvature are derived by means of known flowfields past ogival bodies. The flowfields are generated by means of perturbations of the supersonic flow past a circular cone. Approximate analytical solutions for the shock-layer flowfield are found within the framework of hypersonic small-disturbance theory. Perturbations due to longitudinal curvature produce reduced drag, increased lift-to-drag ratios, and provide design advantages for a more efficient volume distribution related to packaging of guidance, propulsion, and payload units. Nomenclature Ab =base area of waverider Cp = pressure coefficient D = drag / =body perturbation function Gm = shock perturbation function for power law g = shock perturbation function Kd =M00d, hypersonic similarity parameter; d in radians L =lift t = length of basic cone MO, =freestream Mach number m = perturbation index factor Q -Poo^oo/2
Fancd2−/− mice have hematopoietic defects that can be partially corrected by resveratrol

Progressive bone marrow failure is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in human Fanconi Anemia patients. In an effort to develop a Fanconi Anemia murine model to study bone marrow failure, we found that Fancd2(-/-) mice have readily measurable hematopoietic defects. Fancd2 deficiency was associated with a significant decline in the size of the c-Kit(+)Sca-1(+)Lineage(-) (KSL) pool and reduced stem cell repopulation and spleen colony-forming capacity. Fancd2(-/-) KSL cells showed an abnormal cell cycle status and loss of quiescence. In addition, the supportive function of the marrow microenvironment was compromised in Fancd2(-/-) mice. Treatment with Sirt1-mimetic and the antioxidant drug, resveratrol, maintained Fancd2(-/-) KSL cells in quiescence, improved the marrow microenvironment, partially corrected the abnormal cell cycle status, and significantly improved the spleen colony-forming capacity of Fancd2(-/-) bone marrow cells. We conclude that Fancd2(-/-) mice have readily quantifiable hematopoietic defects, and that this model is well suited for pharmacologic screening studies.
Subcutaneous palisading granulomas (benign rheumatoid nodules) in children

Subcutaneous palisading granulomas (SPG), also known as benign rheumatoid nodules, occur in otherwise healthy children. Although these lesions have the same histology as rheumatoid nodules in adults, subcutaneous granuloma annulare, and diabetic lipoidicum, they appear to represent a distinct clinicopathologic entity. We reviewed our experience with 17 cases of SPG. All patients presented with one or more painless, nonmobile, subcutaneous nodules. Lower extremity involvement was most common, but lesions presented in the upper extremities and scalp as well. There were 14 girls and three boys ranging in age from 10 months to 15 2/12 years (mean, 4 5/12 years) at the time of diagnosis. Past medical histories were negative. Laboratory and radiologic studies were normal except for one child with an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 14 10/12 years (mean, 4 11/12 years). Subsequent new lesions developed in nearly two thirds of the patients. In the one child with an initially elevated ESR, rheumatoid arthritis developed. All others were alive and well except for one who died in a motor vehicle accident without evidence of further disease. Preoperative diagnosis was correct in only three patients. Excisional biopsy was performed in all cases. However, one child had received prior radiation therapy, one received topical steroid therapy, and three patients had subsequent lesions excised. All subsequent lesions not surgically excised underwent spontaneous involution.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The oxidized complex of nickel with 4-carboxy-1,2-cyclohexanedionedioxime in alkaline media

Abstract The reaction of oxygen with a nickel(II) complex of 4-carboxy-1,2-cyclohexanedionedioxime in alkaline media was studied spectrophotometrically, polarographically, and by spectrophotometric titrations with tin(II) chloride. Magnetic susceptibility measurements were also performed. The rate of formation of the oxidized complex was found to be first order at 25° and 50°. The average values obtained for the rate constant k' 1 are (2.71 ± 0.23) x 10 -2 h -1 (25°), spectrophotometrically; (5.99 ± 0.83) x 10 -2 h -1 (50°), polarographically; (4.98 ± 0.90) x 10 -2 h -1 (50°), titrimetrically; (2.87 ± 0.29) x 10 -2 h -1 (50°), curve fitting. The value obtained for the rate constant K' 2 is (1.59 ± 0.16) x 10 -2 h -1 (50°), curve fitting, The effect of reducing agents on the formation of the oxidized complex was studied. It was found that tin(II) chloride, hydrazine sulfate, and hydroxylammonium chloride prevented the formation of the oxidized complex. A reaction mechanism for the formation and decomposition of the oxidized complex is proposed.
The Effect of Tracheal Smooth Muscle Tone on Neonatal Airway Collapsibility

The effect of smooth muscle tone on the functional characteristics of neonatal airways was studied in six newborn lambs. Tracheal mechanics, resistance, and collapsibility were determined in tracheal segments of uniform length which were surgically isolated just caudal to the cricoid cartilage. Resistance to airflow through uncompressed (zero transmural pressure) and compressed (increased transmural pressure) trachea was evaluated over a range of physiological flows both before and after induced contraction of airway smooth muscle. Results demonstrate that neonatal tracheal smooth muscle does respond to cholinergic stimulation and that there was a significant decrease in airway compliance. Furthermore, the consequent increase in airway rigidity may play a role in resisting collapse or compression of the intrathoracic airway during expiration.
Inactivation of staphylococcal enterotoxin A by chemical modification.

Carboxymethylation of either five or six histidine residues of enterotoxin A caused a slight reduction in the ability of the enterotoxin to react with antibody specific for enterotoxin A and a significant reduction in toxicity. The loss of toxicity of the enterotoxin was not associated with a conformational change but appeared to be due to the modification of an amino acid residue within the toxic site of the molecule.
Development of fuel cell bipolar plates from graphite filled wet-lay thermoplastic composite materials

Abstract A method with the potential to produce economical bipolar plates with high electrical conductivity and mechanical properties is described. Thermoplastic composite materials consisting of graphite particles, thermoplastic fibers and glass or carbon fibers are generated by means of a wet-lay (paper-making) process to yield highly formable sheets. The sheets are then stacked and compression molded to form bipolar plates with gas flow channels. Poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) based wet-lay composite plates have in-plane conductivity of 200–300 S cm −1 , tensile strength of 57 MPa, flexural strength of 96 MPa and impact strength (unnotched) of 81 J m −1 (1.5 ft-lb in. −1 ). These values well exceed industrial as well as Department of Energy requirements or targets and have never been reached before for composite bipolar plates. The use of wet-lay sheets also makes it possible to choose different components including polymer, graphite particle and reinforcement for the core and outer layers of the plate, respectively, to optimize the properties and/or reduce the cost of the plate. The through-plane conductivity (around 20 S cm −1 ) and half-cell resistance of the bipolar plate indicate that the through-plane conductivity of the material needs some improvement.
Relief device sizing for ethylene decompositions—high pressure polyethylene industry

This paper discusses revisions to a method previously used for sizing relief devices (rupture disks) for vessels in high pressure polyethylene processes. The Re-evaluation was forced by an unexpectedly high peak pressure in a product separator (high pressure separator, HPS) when an ethylene decomposition occurred. A method, based on revised equations for calculating the rate of pressure rise, is presented for determining relief requirements for ethylene decomposition in a confined space. The method applies to both HPSs and polyethylene autoclave reactors. Causes of decompositions and effect of comonomers are also discussed. Simulations for other events at different operating conditions, not shown, indicate a good match for peak pressures. Therefore, the described equations provide a good estimate of ethylene decomposition peak pressures given the initial conditions. Although these methods were derived specifically for ethylene decompositions, the methods could be used for other decompositions. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 2007
Dose- and time-dependent formation of benzo[a]pyrene metabolite DNA adducts in the spiny lobster, Panulirus argus

Abstract Because of the apparent resistance of crustaceans to tumors following exposure to chemical carcinogens such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), it was of interest to examine the ability of a model crustacean to form DNA adducts of a model PAH, benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). In-vitro studies showed that under optimal conditions, spiny lobster hepatopancreatic cytochrome P450 could metabolize a low concentration of BaP (3·5 μm) to products that bound covalently to exogenous DNA. For in-vivo studies, [ 3 H]-BaP was administered at doses of 4 to 450 μg/kg to groups of spiny lobsters, and animals were sacrificed at 3 or 28 days after the dose. In spiny lobsters sacrificed at 3 days after the dose, the dose—response curve for binding of BaP metabolites to hepatopancreatic DNA was roughly linear in the range 4–200 μg/kg. Binding ranged from 0·04 to 4·2 pmol BaP equivalents bound/mg DNA. Spiny lobsters given 20 μg BaP/kg and sacrificed at 28 days after the dose had less than 10% of the DNA adducts found 3 days after the dose. These results suggest that the hepatopancreas can efficiently eliminate BaP metabolite DNA adducts. This may in part explain the resistance of crustaceans to chemical carcinogenesis.
On building inexpensive network capabilities

There are many deployed approaches for blocking unwanted traffic, either once it reaches the recipient's network, or closer to its point of origin. One of these schemes is based on the notion of traffic carrying capabilities that grant access to a network and/or end host. However, leveraging capabilities results in added complexity and additional steps in the communication process: Before communication starts a remote host must be vetted and given a capability to use in the subsequent communication. In this paper, we propose a lightweight mechanism that turns the answers provided by DNS name resolution - which Internet communication broadly depends on anyway - into capabilities. While not achieving an ideal capability system, we show the mechanism can be built from commodity technology and is therefore a pragmatic way to gain some of the key benefits of capabilities without requiring new infrastructure.
Challenges of design and packaging for 3D stacking with logic and DRAM dies

A Wide IO DRAM controller chip with Through Silicon Via (TSV) technology is implemented. Test circuitry for prebonding TSV tests are embedded in between the fine pitch TSVs. In order to reduce Vmin degradation induced by 512 DQs simultaneously switching noise, we introduce a package-board impedance optimization method utilizing a full digital noise monitor. We also develop a 3D stacked flip chip assembly process with void less underfill enabled by Non Conductive Film (NCF). 12.8 GB/s operation is achieved, while IO power was reduced by 89% compared to LPDDR3.
Honey bees and bumble bees respond differently to inter- and intra-specific encounters

Multiple bee species may forage simultaneously at a common resource. Physical encounters among these bees may modify their subsequent foraging behavior and shape pollinator distribution and resource utilization in a plant community. We observed physical encounters between honey bees, Apis mellifera, and bumble bees, Bombus impatiens, visiting artificial plants in a controlled foraging arena. Both species were more likely to leave the plant following an encounter with another bee, but differed in their responses to intra- and inter-specific encounters. A. mellifera responded similarly to an encounter with either species. However, most B. impatiens that encountered A. mellifera discontinued foraging at the observed plant, but exhibited only a slight decrease in foraging following an intraspecific encounter. Interactions between bees that elicit changes in foraging behavior may have important implications for the pollination of wild and managed plants.
Digital Image Correlation under Scanning Electron Microscopy: Methodology and Validation

The recent combination of scanning electron microscopy and digital image correlation (SEM-DIC) enables the experimental investigation of full-field deformations at much smaller length scales than is possible using optical digital image correlation methods. However, the high spatial resolution of SEM-DIC comes at the cost of complex image distortions, long image scan times that can capture gradients from stress relaxation, and a high noise sensitivity to SEM parameters. In this paper, it is shown that these sources of error can significantly impact the quality of the results and must be accounted for in order to perform accurate SEM-DIC experiments. An existing framework for distortion corrections is adapted to improve accuracy and the procedures are described in detail. As the results demonstrate, time varying drift distortion is a larger problem at high magnification while spatial distortion is more problematic at low magnification. Additionally, the new use of sample-independent calibration and a method to eliminate the detrimental effects of stress relaxation in the displacement fields prior to distortion correction are introduced. The impact of SEM settings on image noise is quantified and noise minimization schemes are examined. Finally, a uniaxial tension test on coarse-grained 1100-O aluminum is used to demonstrate these techniques, where active slip planes are identified and strain localization is examined in relation to the underlying microstructure.
Inhibiting the transport of hazardous spores using polymer-based solutions.

A series of polymer solutions were developed for the purpose of immobilizing aerosolized 1–10 μ m sized hazardous biological particles. The polymer solutions were designed as tools for emergency response and remediation personnel. The inhibition of secondary aerosolization and migration of biothreat particles has important implications for public health protection and contamination cleanup. Limiting further dispersion of particles such as Bacillus anthracis spores may reduce inhalation hazards and enhance remediation efficiencies. This study evaluated film-forming polymers that have multiple functional groups capable of attracting and binding particles; these included acrylates, cellulosics, vinyl polymers, and polyurethanes. The selected polymers were combined with appropriate solvents to design solutions that met specific performance objectives. The polymer solutions were then evaluated for key characteristics, such as high adhesion, high elasticity, low density, short drying time, low viscosity, and lo...
Impact of age on modulation of norepinephrine release from sympathetic nerves in the rat superior mesentery artery

Abstract There is an age-related increase in stimulation-evoked fractional norepinephrine release in tail arteries of Fischer 344 rats from 6–20 months of age. Previous studies have ruled out changes in the function of uptake and subsequent metabolism mechanisms, or feedback by prejunctional α 2 -adrenoceptors. The tail artery is important in thermoregulation, and there is the possibility that the previously observed increase in sympathetic nerve activity is due to age-related changes in thermoregulation as opposed to a fundamental age-related change in the regulation of sympathetic nerves. Thus, we measured stimulation-evoked norepinephrine release in another blood vessel model, the superior mesentery artery using HPLC with electrochemical detection. In this study fractional norepinephrine release was measured under three separate conditions, drug free Krebs'; in the presence of deoxycorticosterone and cocaine; in the presence of deoxycorticosterone and cocaine and the α 2 -adrenergic receptor antagonist, idazoxan. The most significant finding was that fractional norepinephrine release in mesentery arteries from 20-month-old animals was higher as compared to 6 months regardless of treatment condition. Furthermore, the elevation in norepinephrine release cannot be accounted for by changes in norepinephrine content, uptake and subsequent metabolism mechanisms or changes in basal norepinephrine release. These data from the mesentery artery model confirm and support our previous work in the rat tail artery model. In addition, the data from this study suggest the possibility that there are common mechanisms underlying the age-related increase in peripheral sympathetic nerve activity.
PHOTOSENSITIVITY IN THE SKIN OF THE LIZARD, Anolis carolinensis

Skin of the lizard, Anolis carolinensis, is remarkably sensitive to light. Illuminated in vitro with visible light from a tungsten source (110 W (m-2)), skin changes from brilliant green to dark brown (50% reduction in reflectance) within 2-4 min as a result of dispersion of melanin from a perinuclear position within dermal melanophores into superficial dendritic processes. Reversal of the process, reaggregation of pigment, will occur within 2.0 min upon return to darkness. This photic response can be initiated with light levels as low as 5.0 W m(-2) and is maximized by light levels only 5% that of midwinter sunshine. Pigment dispersion in response to both melanocyte simulating hormone and to light is inhibited by cytochalasin-B, indicating that microfilaments may be the motor element for pigment movement in that direction. Colchicine, but not cytochalasin-B, totally blocks pigment reaggregation following melanocyte stimulating hormone exposure and partially blocks it in the dark phase of the photic response. The results of this study are consistent with a model for pigment movement in A. carolinensis that provides microfilaments for pigment dispersion and microtubule involvement in both dispersion and aggregation. Finally, because it is readily visible, easily quantified, rapid and reversible, photic response in the skin of A. carolinensis is recommended as a valuable model system for the study of saltatory movement of organelles within cells.
Acute inhalation toxicity of neutralized Chemical Agent Identification Sets (CAIS) containing agent in chloroform

An acute head-only inhalation study was conducted in rats exposed for 1 h to product solution (wastestream) resultant from the chemical neutralization of Chemical Agent Identification Sets (CAIS) containing agent (sulfur mustard (HD), nitrogen mustard (HN-1) or lewisite (L)) in chloroform. Groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to varying concentrations (24000, 18000, 12000 or 6000 ppm) of CAIS wastestream. An additional group was exposed to the vehicle (chloroform/t-butanol) only, at a concentration equivalent to the concentration of vehicle at the highest exposure level. Animals were evaluated for toxic effects, including assessment of toxicant-induced alterations to the ocular and respiratory systems. Mortality on exposure to 24000 ppm of test article or to vehicle alone was high. Mortality in the other exposure groups was roughly proportional to the concentration of test article (wastestream). Toxic signs were consistent with exposure to solvent system components (chloroform/t-butanol) and to agent decomposition products/by-products. Incidence and severity of ocular effects were similar in vehicle control and treatment groups. The salient respiratory effect observed was a decreased minute volume, which was also noted in vehicle and treatment groups.
Transition from quasiperiodicity to chaos: A perturbative renormalization-group approach

The transition from quasiperiodicity to chaos is studied by a "momentum space" renormalization-group method similar to that employed in phase-transition studies. A perturbative expansion in a universality class parameter is developed, and approximate analytic expressions for the spectra as well as for one of the critical exponents are obtained and are in excellent agreement with previous numerical evaluations.
A Correlation of Bibliographic Data Elements for use in a Generalized File Management System

Data elements contained in sixteen commercial and national bibliographic data bases have been merged to form a single, correlated set. This correlation, part of a generalized file management system developed at LLL, has led to several improvements in the Laboratory's activities in current awareness and information retrieval: standardization of the system command language, increased uniformity in output display formats, a mechanism for selective extraction and transfer of records among data bases, and simplification of the programming required for data conversion. The correlation is compatible with most existing and proposed data-element standards and may prove useful in any information system employing multiple bibliographic data bases.
Failure of slender and stocky reinforced concrete columns: tests of size effect

The paper reports the results of a series of tests of geometrically similar pin-ended tied reinforced concrete columns of different sizes, with ratio 1∶2∶4, and slendernesses of 19.2, 35.8 and 52.5. The model columns had square cross-sections of sides 0.5, 1 and 2 in. (12.7, 25.4 and 50.8 mm), reduced-size steel bars with steel ratio 4.91%, and reduced-size aggregate with maximum size 1/8 in. (3.2 mm). The axial load was eccentric, with end eccentricities 0.25 of the cross-section side. It is found that for all slendernesses the failure loads exhibit a strong size effect in which the nominal stress at maximum load (load divided by cross-sectional area) decreases as the size is increased. This contradicts the current design codes, which exhibit no size effect, and indicates that the failure is governed by fracture mechanics. The results are in good agreement with the size-effect law previously proposed by Bažant. For a higher slenderness, the size effect increases and the brittleness of failure, characterizing the proximity to the behaviour described by linear elastic fracture mechanics, increases. The role of bond slip in the observed size effect remains to be clarified.
The transcriptional response to tumorigenic polarity loss in Drosophila

The cavities and organs within our body are lined with epithelial cells, which connect to each other to form continuous barriers. These cells have a highly polarized structure in which different components are found at the top and bottom of cells. In the fruit fly and most other animals, three genes known as the Scribble module control the polarity of epithelial cells. If these genes are faulty, the cells lose their polarity, break the epithelial barrier, and grow rapidly to form a tumor. Most malignant tumors that form from epithelial cells have lost normal cell polarity, so understanding how the organization and growth of epithelial cells are linked is a critical question. It is not clear how the loss of cell polarity can drive tumor formation. Here, Bunker et al. used a technique called RNA sequencing to study the expression of genes in tumor cells that have mutations in the Scribble module. Hundreds of genes in the tumor cells had different levels of expression from the levels seen in normal fly cells. One of these is a gene called upd3, which was expressed much more highly in tumor cells than in normal cells. This gene activates a signaling pathway—called the JAK/STAT pathway—that promotes cell growth and division in many animals. Bunker et al. found that experimentally lowering the activity of the JAK/STAT pathway reduced the growth of the tumor cells that had lost normal polarity. Further experiments show that disrupting the layer of epithelial cells activates two other signaling pathways that work together to switch on the upd3 gene when cell polarity is lost. Proteins belonging to the Polycomb Group also control the expression of upd3 and other genes involved in cell growth by altering how genetic material is packaged in cells. The similarities between this response and the response to tissue damage suggest that the loss of polarity drives tumor formation through an unstoppable wound-healing reaction. Therefore, Bunker et al.'s findings link the formation of epithelial tumors to the signaling pathways that control the repair of damaged tissues.