cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Direct Current Contamination of Kilohertz Frequency Alternating Current Waveforms

Kilohertz frequency alternating current (KHFAC) waveforms are being evaluated in a variety of physiological settings because of their potential to modulate neural activity uniquely when compared to frequencies in the sub-kilohertz range. However, the use of waveforms in this frequency range presents some unique challenges regarding the generator output. In this study we explored the possibility of undesirable contamination of the KHFAC waveforms by direct current (DC). We evaluated current- and voltage-controlled KHFAC waveform generators in configurations that included a capacitive coupling between generator and electrode, a resistive coupling and combinations of capacitive with inductive coupling. Our results demonstrate that both voltage- and current-controlled signal generators can unintentionally add DC-contamination to a KHFAC signal, and that capacitive coupling is not always sufficient to eliminate this contamination. We furthermore demonstrated that high value inductors, placed in parallel with the electrode, can be effective in eliminating DC-contamination irrespective of the type of stimulator, reducing the DC contamination to less than 1 μA. This study highlights the importance of carefully designing the electronic setup used in KHFAC studies and suggests specific testing that should be performed and reported in all studies that assess the neural response to KHFAC waveforms.
Measurement of stenosis from magnetic resonance angiography using vessel skeletons

Measurement of stenosis due to atherosclerosis is essential for interventional planning. Currently, measurement of stenosis from magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is made based on 2D maximum intensity projection (MIP) images. This methodology, however, is subjective and does not take full advantage of the 3D nature of MRA. To address these limitations we present a deformable model for reconstructing the vessel surface with particular application to the carotid artery. The deformable model is based on a cylindrical coordinate system of a curvilinear axes. In this coordinate system, the location of each point on the surface of the deformable model is described by its axial, circumferential and radial position. The points on the surface deform in the radial direction so as to minimize discontinuity in radial position between adjacent points while maximizing the proximity of the surface to local edges in the image. The algorithm has no bias towards either narrower or wider cross- sectional shapes and is thus appropriate for the measurement of stenosis. Axes of the vessels are indicated manually or determined by axes detection methods. Once completed, the surface reconstruction lends itself directly to 3D methods for measuring cross-sectional diameter and area.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The FGGE Arctic Data Buoy Program

Abstract An array of about 20 drifting data buoys was established in the Arctic Ocean during the early months of 1979. The position of each buoy and the surface pressure and temperature are measured several times daily. The program expands our capability for monitoring the polar atmosphere at a time when operational activity at high latitudes is increasing. It provides the first synoptic view of ice motion and atmospheric parameter for the Arctic Basin.
Plant Community Responses to Simultaneous Changes in Temperature, Nitrogen Availability, and Invasion

Background Increasing rates of change in climate have been observed across the planet and have contributed to the ongoing range shifts observed for many species. Although ecologists are now using a variety of approaches to study how much and through what mechanisms increasing temperature and nutrient pollution may influence the invasions inherent in range shifts, accurate predictions are still lacking.
Materials Budget Allocation Methods at San Diego County Library

ABSTRACT Methods used to allocate the materials budget at San Diego County Library, California, are discussed. The San Diego County Library is a large and diverse conglomeration of small-town, rural, and suburban libraries with below-average funding. With a per capita materials budget of only 93 cents, the method of allocating the book budget is something that is closely watched by library Friends groups, city governments, and community organizations. The staff first takes into account the portion of the entire library budget devoted to materials, and core service levels and reference needs at individual branches. The components of the materials budget are “base” budgets, service-measurement allocations, and centralized expenditures, all of which are examined and adjusted each year. The library attempts to balance these factors with the public and staff perception of what is “fair,” together with a method of allocation that will satisfy the service goals of the organization.
Novel Combination Treatments Targeting Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Stem Cells

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is currently considered incurable in most patients. Stem cell transplantation, an accepted curative option for which extensive experience has been gained, is limited by high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in older patients. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting BCR-ABL are widely used and induce remission in a high proportion of patients, but resistance and incomplete response to these agents portends eventual relapse and disease progression. Although BCR-ABL inhibitors eradicate most CML cells, they are largely ineffective against the reservoir of quiescent leukemic stem cells (LSCs). Thus a strong medical need exists for therapies that effectively eradicate LSCs and is currently a focus of extensive research. To date, evidence obtained from in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical CML specimens suggests that an effective approach may be to partner existing BCR-ABL inhibitors with compounds targeting key stem cell molecular effectors, including Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog pathway components, histone deacetylase (HDAC), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Janus kinase 2, promyelocytic leukemia protein, and arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5). Novel combinations may sensitize LSCs to BCR-ABL inhibitors, thereby overcoming resistance and creating the possibility of improving disease outcome beyond the current standard of care.
Control of the synthesis of phage p22 scaffolding protein is coupled to capsid assembly

Abstract The assembly of the precursor shells of bacteriophage P22 entails the co-polymerization of gene 5 coat protein with gene 8 scaffolding protein into double shell structures. During DNA encapsidation, the inner shell of scaffolding molecules dissociates and exits from the prohead. These molecules then recycle, catalyzing the assembly of newly synthesized coat protein to form new proheads (King and Casjens, 1974). Although gene 5 and gene 8 are adjacent on the phage chromosome, we find that the synthesis of the two proteins is differentially regulated. In productively infected cells, scaffolding protein is synthesized at a low rate relative to the coat protein. In contrast, cells that are infected with mutants blocked in DNA packaging and accumulate precursor shells synthesize scaffolding protein at a much higher rate. If a mutation is introduced into the coat protein gene, however, preventing shell assembly, the rate of scaffolding protein synthesis decreases to less than the wild-type rate. The experiments are consistent with models in which either continued synthesis of scaffolding protein depends upon co-polymerization with coat subunits, or soluble scaffolding subunits (but not assembled subunits) depress their own further synthesis. The finding that amber fragments of the scaffolding protein are synthesized at a very low rate is inconsistent with the second model. There is evidence, however, that fragments of the protein may have regulatory activity. The regulatory circuit couples scaffolding protein synthesis to morphogenesis. Gene dosage experiments show that regulation results in the maintenance of coat and scaffolding subunits in the proper ratio for shell assembly.
Behaviorist-based control of an autonomous skid-steer robot using threshold fuzzy systems

This paper describes a method of acquiring behaviorist-based reactive control strategies for an autonomous skid-steer robot operating in an unknown environment. First, a detailed interactive simulation of the robot (including simplified vehicle kinematics, sensors and a randomly generated environment) is developed with the capability of a human driver supplying all control actions. We then introduce a new modular, neural-fuzzy system called Threshold Fuzzy Systems (TFS). A TFS has two unique features that distinguish it from traditional fuzzy logic and neural network systems; (1) the rulebase of a TFS contains only single antecedent, single consequence rules, called a Behaviorist Fuzzy Rulebase (BFR) and (2) a highly structured adaptive node network, called a Rule Dominance Network (RDN), is added to the fuzzy logic inference engine. Each rule in the BFR is a direct mapping of an input sensor to a system output. Connection nodes in the RDN occur when rules in the BFR are conflicting. The nodes of the RDN contain functions that are used to suppress the output of other conflicting rules in the BFR. Supervised training, using error backpropagation, is used to find the optimal parameters of the dominance functions. The usefulness of the TFS approach becomes evident when examining an autonomous vehicle system (AVS). In this paper, a TFS controller is developed for a skid-steer AVS. Several hundred simulations are conducted and results for the AVS with a traditional fuzzy controller and with a TFS controller are compared.
On the Economics of State Lotteries

S tate lotteries can be evaluated from either of two perspectives familiar to economists: as a consumer commodity or as a source of public revenue. L As a commodity, the lottery is notable for its broad market penetration and rapid growth. Sixty percent of the adults in lottery states play at least once in a year. The annual growth in real per capita sales in lottery states has averaged 12 percent, rising in 1989 dollars from $22 in 1975 to $108 in 1989. As a source of public revenue, lotteries account for a rather modest fraction of revenue in states that run them (3.3 percent in 1986), but they are nonetheless one of the most visible state government activities. Lottery sales exceed those of all other products sold directly by state governments to the public and are larger than all but three major activities of state government: education, public welfare and highways (Clotfelter and Cook, 1989, Table 2.5). Moreover, lotteries are a qualitatively new activity for state governments, in that they are a business operated, in effect, for profit. State liquor stores are perhaps the closest analog, but they were created to encourage temperate drinking practices and do not engage in the sales promotion and marketing activities that are characteristic of the lotteries. Lotteries enjoy an honored place in American history as a device for raising funds for public purposes. Funding for such institutions as the Jamestown settlement, Harvard College, and the Continental Army, as well as hundreds of bridges, fire houses and schools came from lotteries. But after the
Synthesis and characterization of a soybean oil‐based macromonomer

An acrylate-functional soybean oil-based macromonomer (SoyAA-1) was synthesized in high yields utilizing sequential amidation and acrylation processes to serve as an internal plasticizer in emulsion polymers. The structure and structure–property relationships of this unique macromonomer were validated with FTIR, NMR, and LC-MS. The viability of SoyAA-1 as a comonomer in emulsion polymerization was established via copolymerization with methyl methacrylate (MMA) at varying copolymer weight compositions. The effect of increasing SoyAA-1 levels and concomitantly higher allylic functionality was measured through film coalescence, minimum film forming temperature, and initial and progressively increasing glass transition temperature(s). The results indicate that synthetic modification of a renewable resource, soybean oil, can yield a valuable monomer that can be copolymerized in high yields via emulsion polymerization to produce practical and mechanically stable latexes for a variety of coatings applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40249.
The effects of successive lesions on the time course of the sprouting response in the hippocampus of the rat

Abstract Sprouting into the middle molecular layer of the dendrate gyrus was compared in adult rats which received only a lesion of the entorhinal cortex (one-stage group) or that lesion preceded by removal of the contralateral hippocampus (two-stage group). Reinnervation was comparable in the two groups, a result which suggests that delays in the initiation of sprouting are not due to the time required to mobilize a growth response in reactive axons.
A game-theoretic investigation of selection methods in two-population coevolution

We examine the dynamical and game-theoretic properties of several selection methods in the context of two-population coevolution. The methods we examine are fitness-proportional, linear rank, truncation, and (μ,λ)-ES selection. We use simple symmetric variable-sum games in an evolutionary game-theoretic framework. Our results indicate that linear rank, truncation, and (μ,λ)-ES selection are somewhat better-behaved in a two-population setting than in the one-population case analyzed by Ficici et al. [4]. These alternative selection methods maintain the Nash-equilibrium attractors found in proportional selection, but also add non-Nash attractors as well as regions of phase-space that lead to cyclic dynamics. Thus, these alternative selection methods do not properly implement the Nash-equilibrium solution concept.
Engineered Sarafotoxins as Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases-like Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors

The sarafotoxins and endothelins are ∼25-residue peptides that spontaneously fold into a defined tertiary structure with specific pairing of four cysteines into two disulfide bonds. Their structures show an interesting topological similarity to the core of the metalloproteinase interaction sites of the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases. Previous work indicates that sarafotoxins and endothelins can be engineered to eliminate or greatly reduce their vasopressive action and that their structural framework can withstand multiple sequence changes. When sarafotoxin 6b, which possesses modest matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory activity, was C-terminally truncated to remove its toxic vasopressive activity, the metalloproteinase inhibitory activity was essentially abolished. However, further changes, based on the sequences of peptides selected from libraries of sarafotoxin variants or suggested by analogy with tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, progressively enhanced the matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory activity. Peptide variants with multiple substitutions folded correctly and formed native disulfide bonds. Improvements in matrix metalloproteinase affinity have generated a peptide with micromolar Ki values for matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -9 that are selective inhibitors of different metalloproteinases. Characterization of its solution structure indicates a close similarity to sarafotoxin but with a more extended C-terminal helix. The effects of N-acetylation and other changes, as well as docking studies, support the hypothesis that the engineered sarafotoxins bind to matrix metalloproteinases in a manner analogous to the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases.
Rapid line-scan confocal imaging of retinal activation

A rapid line-scan confocal imager was developed for reflected light measurement of fast IOSs correlated with retinal activation. This functional imager provides two, i.e., frame-by-frame and line-by-line, imaging modalities. While frame-by-frame imaging allows dynamic visualization of IOSs over a two-dimensional retinal area at a frame speed > 100 Hz; line-by-line recording can provide ultrafast (> 10 KHz) monitoring of a fixed line area of the retina. A series of experiments was conducted to characterize reflected IOSs in frog retinas, and simultaneous electrophysiological responses were measured. Our experiments indicated that reflected IOSs were tightly correlated with retinal stimuli. Because of effective rejection of out-of-focus background light, rapid confocal imaging typically disclosed fast IOSs with magnitude peak > 30% uI/I, where uI was dynamic optical change and I was background light intensity. We anticipate that further development of the IOS imaging technology will pave the way toward noninvasive, high resolution evaluation of retinal function.
Modified Generalized Sign Test Processor for 2-D Radar

The modified generalized sign test processor is a nonparametric, adaptive detector for 2-D search radars. The detector ranks a sample under test with its neighboring samples and integrates (on a pulse-to-pulse basis) the ranks with a two-pole filter. A target is declared when the integrated output exceeds two thresholds. The first threshold is fixed and yields a 10-6 probability of false alarm when the neighboring samples are independent and identically distributed. The second threshold is adaptive and maintains a low false-alarm rate when the integrated neighboring samples are correlated and when there are nonhomogeneities, such as extraneous targets, in the neighboring cells. Using Monte Carlo techniques, probability of false-alarm results, probability of detection curves, and angular accuracy curves have been generated for this detector. The detector was built and PPI photographs are used to indicate the detector's performance when the radar is operated over land clutter.
A finitely convergent algorithm for bilinear programming problems using polar cuts and disjunctive face cuts

A finite algorithm is presented in this study for solving Bilinear programs. This is accomplished by developing a suitable cutting plane which deletes at least a face of a polyhedral set. At an extreme point, a polar cut using negative edge extensions is used. At other points, disjunctive cuts are adopted. Computational experience on test problems in the literature is provided.
Between rhetoric and “the law”: Power, legitimacy, and social change

A GUIDE TO CRITICAL LEGAL STUDIES. By Mark Kelman. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1987; pp. 360. $30.00. INTERPRETING LAW AND LITERATURE: A HERMENEUTIC READER. Edited by Sanford Levinson and Steven Mailloux. Evanston, IL: Northwestern University Press, 1988; pp. 502. $62.95; paper 29.95. THE CRITICAL LEGAL STUDIES MOVEMENT. By Roberto Mangabeira Unger. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1986; pp. 128. $7.95.
A comprehensive approach to tissue conditioning for complete dentures

I 11-fitting dentures are abusive to the underlying soft tissue and can induce deformation and inflammation. The need for conditioning oral tissues to a healthy state prior to making impressions for new dentures has been documented.‘-‘5 Untreated deformed tissues compromise the stability and retention of new dentures and may result in changes of occlusal relationships (Fig. 1). The purposes of this article are to (1) identify the key deficiencies of poorly constructed complete dentures, (2) present a technique to correct them, and (3) describe the application of tissue-conditioning materials in this more favorable environment. If the. material is used in existing dentures without prior correction of the deficiencies, therapy will not be successful and its potential will not be realized. The deficiencies most frequently encountered are inadequate border extension, incorrect vertical dimension of occlusion, and lack of a harmonious occlusion. Each of these features must be evaluated and corrected in an orderly fashion to obtain optimum results.
Dexmedetomidine Does Not Alter the Sweating Threshold, But Comparably and Linearly Decreases the Vasoconstriction and Shivering Thresholds

Background: Clonidine decreases the vasoconstriction and shivering thresholds. It thus seems likely that the alpha2 agonist dexmedetomidine will also impair control of body temperature. Accordingly, the authors evaluated the dose-dependent effects of dexmedetomidine on the sweating, vasoconstriction, and shivering thresholds. They also measured the effects of dexmedetomidine on heart rate, blood pressures, and plasma catecholamine concentrations. Methods: Nine male volunteers participated in this randomized, double-blind, cross-over protocol. The study drug was administered by computer-controlled infusion, targeting plasma dexmedetomidine concentrations of 0.0, 0.3, and 0.6 ng/ml. Each day, skin and core temperatures were increased to provoke sweating and then subsequently reduced to elicit vasoconstriction and shivering. Core-temperature thresholds were computed using established linear cutaneous contributions to control of sweating, vasoconstriction, and shivering. The dose-dependent effects of dexmedetomidine on thermoregulatory response thresholds were then determined using linear regression. Heart rate, arterial blood pressures, and plasma catecholamine concentrations were determined at baseline and at each threshold. Results: Neither dexmedetomidine concentration increased the sweating threshold from control values. In contrast, dexmedetomidine administration reduced the vasoconstriction threshold by 1.61 +/- 0.80 [degree sign] Celsius [center dot] ng sup -1 [center dot] ml (mean +/- SD) and the shivering threshold by 2.40 +/- 0.90 [degree sign] Celsius [center dot] ng sup -1 [center dot] ml. Hemodynamic responses and catecholamine concentrations were reduced from baseline values, but they did not differ at the two tested dexmedetomidine doses. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine markedly increased the range of temperatures not triggering thermoregulatory defenses. The drug is thus likely to promote hypothermia in a typical hospital environment; it is also likely to prove an effective treatment for shivering.
Magnetospheric cross-field currents during the January 6–7, 2011 high-speed stream-driven interval

Abstract The cross-field current systems within a global, coupled geospace simulation of the January 6, 2011 high-speed stream-driven interval are analyzed to understand the flow and partitioning of energy within the magnetosphere. Even though this is a small storm with a minimum Dst of −41 nT, it is shown that the time-dependence of current system locations is very similar to that from a much larger storm (minimum Dst of −230 nT) driven by an interplanetary coronal mass ejection. That is, during the early part of the main phase, the tail current inner edge moves Earthward inside of geosynchronous orbit, but then retreats during the later part of the main phase, and by the peak of the storm interval, the ring/tail boundary is beyond L=10 in the nightside magnetosphere. It is also seen that a banana current (the part of the partial ring current that does not close through the ionosphere but rather with itself by flowing around the pressure peak entirely on the nightside) accounts for nearly all of the eastward current and the innermost portion of the westward current in the equatorial plane throughout the storm main phase interval.
Structure of physical crystalline membranes within the self-consistent screening approximation.

The anomalous exponents governing the long-wavelength behavior of the flat phase of physical crystalline membranes are calculated within a self-consistent screening approximation (SCSA) applied to second order expansion in $1/{d}_{C}$ (${d}_{C}$ is the codimension), extending the seminal work of Le Doussal and Radzihovsky [Phys. Rev. Lett. 69, 1209 (1992)]. In particular, the bending rigidity is found to harden algebraically in the long-wavelength limit with an exponent $\ensuremath{\eta}=0.789\dots{}$, which is used to extract the elasticity softening exponent ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{u}=0.422\dots{}$, and the roughness exponent $\ensuremath{\zeta}=0.605\dots{}$. The scaling relation ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{u}=2\ensuremath{-}2\ensuremath{\eta}$ is proven to hold to all orders in SCSA. Further, applying the SCSA to an expansion in $1/{d}_{C}$, is found to be essential, as no solution to the self-consistent equations is found in a two-bubble level, which is the naive second-order expansion. Surprisingly, even though the expansion parameter for physical membrane is $1/{d}_{C}=1$, the SCSA applied to second-order expansion deviates only slightly from the first order, increasing $\ensuremath{\zeta}$ by mere 0.016. This supports the high quality of the SCSA for physical crystalline membranes, as well as improves the comparison to experiments and numerical simulations of these systems. The prediction of SCSA applied to first order expansion for the Poisson ratio is shown to be exact to all orders.
SUPERCONDUCTIVITY IN PALLADIUM BASED HYBRIDES

A simple version of the theory of superconductivity is presented. The final result for Tc is very similar to McMillan’s formula, which expresses Tc in terms of electronic quantities and the distribution of the eigenmodes of the lattice vibrations. Taking this distribution from neutron scattering experiments and the electronic properties from first principle band structure calculations, Tc values for Palladium based hydrides and deuterides are obtained in good agreement with the experimental data.
Hystor: making the best use of solid state drives in high performance storage systems

With the fast technical improvement, flash memory based Solid State Drives (SSDs) are becoming an important part of the computer storage hierarchy to significantly improve performance and energy efficiency. However, due to its relatively high price and low capacity, a major system research issue to address is on how to make SSDs play their most effective roles in a high-performance storage system in cost- and performance-effective ways.In this paper, we will answer several related questions with insights based on the design and implementation of a high performance hybrid storage system, called Hystor. We make the best use of SSDs in storage systems by achieving a set of optimization objectives from both system deployment and algorithm design perspectives. Hystor manages both SSDs and hard disk drives (HDDs) as one single block device with minimal changes to existing OS kernels. By monitoring I/O access patterns at runtime, Hystor can effectively identify blocks that (1) can result in long latencies or (2) are semantically critical (e.g. file system metadata), and stores them in SSDs for future accesses to achieve a significant performance improvement. In order to further leverage the exceptionally high performance of writes in the state-of-the-art SSDs, Hystor also serves as a write-back buffer to speed up write requests. Our measurements on Hystor implemented in the Linux kernel 2.6.25.8 show that it can take advantage of the performance merits of SSDs with only a few lines of changes to the stock Linux kernel. Our system study shows that in a highly effective hybrid storage system, SSDs should play a major role as an independent storage where the best suitable data are adaptively and timely migrated in and retained, and it can also be effective to serve as a write-back buffer.
Mathematical analysis of the quasilinear effects in a hyperbolic model blood flow through compliant axi-symmetric vessels

In this paper, we present a mathematical analysis of the quasilinear effects arising in a hyperbolic system of partial differential equations modelling blood flow through large compliant vessels. The equations are derived using asymptotic reduction of the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations in narrow, long channels. To guarantee strict hyperbolicity we first derive the estimates on the initial and boundary data which imply strict hyperbolicity in the region of smooth flow. We then prove a general theorem which provides conditions under which an initial–boundary value problem for a quasilinear hyperbolic system admits a smooth solution. Using this result we show that pulsatile flow boundary data always give rise to shock formation (high gradients in the velocity and inner vessel radius). We estimate the time and the location of the first shock formation and show that in a healthy individual, shocks form well outside the physiologically interesting region (2.8m downstream from the inlet boundary). In the end we present a study of the influence of vessel tapering on shock formation. We obtain a surprising result: vessel tapering postpones shock formation. We provide an explanation for why this is the case. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anaerobic biodegradation of polychlorinated biphenyls in hudson river sediments and dredged sediments in clay encapsulation

Abstract Anoxic Hudson River sediments and clay-encapsulated dredged sediments were investigated to determine whether anaerobic biodegradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) occurred. Measured as a decrease in congener concentrations, clear evidence for anaerobic biodegradation of ambient PCBs was found in untreated Hudson River sediments incubated in the laboratory under an N 2 atmosphere. Of 10 different sediment treatments, which included amendments with biphenyl, yeast extract/trypticase mixture, live and sterilized anaerobic sewage sludges and inoculation with a mixed culture obtained with Aroclor 1221 enrichment, under either an N 2 or CO 2 /H 2 atmosphere, biphenyl enrichment in N 2 was most effective for both sediments. About 53% of the total PCBs (375 mg/kg sediment dry wt), mainly mono- to pentachlorobiphenyls, was degraded in the biphenyl-amended Hudson River sediments and 30% (281 mg/kg sediment) in biphenyl-amended Moreau sediments after 7 months, with the spectrum of congeners degraded much broader in Hudson River than Moreau sediments. Biphenyl amendment enhanced the disappearance of highly chlorinated congeners. Inoculation with the mixed culture showed positive results in Moreau sediments but not in Hudson River sediments. Regardless of treatments, no biodegradation occurred in a CO 2 /H 2 atmosphere. Moreau sediments incubated in situ (from November to June), showed little change in congener concentrations in all treatments, suggesting temperature as an important factor. The accumulation of less-chlorinated congeners as a result of reductive dechlorination of highly chlorinated ones was not observed.
Effect of resistance exercise on bone mineral density in premenopausal women.

Abstract Objective To assess the effect of 9 months of strength training on total body and regional bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm 2 ) in 58 premenopausal women aged 30–50 years. Methods Participants were randomized to either twice weekly supervised strength training for 15 weeks followed by 24 weeks of unsupervised training (treatment group) or control group. Height, weight, maximal muscular strength, nutrient intake and physical activity were assessed. Total body dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA, Lunar Prodigy) scans were taken and analyzed for body composition (lean and fat mass), and BMD for total body and its sub-regions (spine, hip, arms and legs). All measurements were performed at baseline, 15 and 39 weeks. Analysis of covariance was used to assess group differences in BMD change adjusted for baseline BMD, weight, energy and calcium intake. Results At baseline, the two groups had similar BMD and body size characteristics ( P Conclusion Strength training over 9 months did not lead to significantly greater change in total body or regional BMD in premenopausal women.
Light conductance in the ocular lens

Abstract The collimated beam of a HeNe laser aimed tangentially at the equator of submerged bovine or rabbit ocular lenses enters the lens and travels in the surface of the lens. We suggest that the effect is the result of light conductance along the interface between the bulk of the lens (including the lens epithelium on the anterior surface) as the medium of higher refractive index and the capsule as a medium of lower refractive index. Light conductance can be demonstrated in isolated lenses as well as in intact eyes. It is very sensitive to alterations of the state of the lens and therefore it may offer a new method to study very early stages of lens damage and cataract formation.
Enzymatic synthesis of fatty acids.

Abstract Available evidence indicates that there are two distinct systems for the synthesis of fatty acids. 1—The mitochondrial system which may involve some enzymes of the β-oxidation system plus TPNH-α-β-unsaturated acyl reductase and perhaps a new condensing enzyme. Both TPNH and DPNH are required for the synthesis. This system is for the elongation of fatty acids and is responsible for the formation of stearate from palmitate and arachidonate from lionoleate, etc. 2—The non-mitochondrial system which is located in the cytoplasm and catalyzes the conversion of acetyl CoA to palmitate in the presence of ATP, Mn2+, HCO3− and TPNH. Acetyl CoA is condensed with HCO3− to form malonyl CoA, a reaction which is catalyzed by acetyl CoA carboxylase (a biotin-containing enzyme) in the presence of ATP and Mn2+. Malonyl CoA condenses with acetyl CoA or propionyl CoA to yield a reduction by TPNH saturated fatty acids, CO2 and CoA. Short-chain fatty acyl CoA's (C4, C6, C8, etc.) did not accumulate suggesting they may not be intermediates (or in equilibrium with such intermediates) in the overall synthesis. Instead a compound (presumably not acetoacetate) was isolated from the condensation of malonyl CoA and acetyl CoA which could be converted to palmitate by the addition of TPNH to the reaction mixture.
Modeling the critical area in yield forecasts

Semiconductor device yield is determined primarily by the defect density and the critical area, i.e., that portion of the circuit active area in which the occurrence of a defect results in yield loss. A mathematical theory is developed for fault probability and critical area in terms of device geometry and defect size distribution. Equations are derived for its computation for different geometries, and the physical significance of the parameters contained in the equations is discussed.
Preparation and properties of Pb-xCdxS

The phase diagram of the Pb1-xCdxS alloy system has been investigated in the composition range 0 ≤ x ≤ 0. 6. The liquidus and solidus lines throughout this range were determined by differential thermal analysis. Powder X-ray measurements were used to determine the lattice parameters of several compositions. The solubility of CdS in PbS is extremely retrograde, decreasing from approximately 0. 38 mole fraction CdS at 1052°C to 0. 026 mole fraction CdS at 500°C.
Carbon dioxide effects on luminol and 1,10-phenanthroline chemiluminescence.

Luminol and 1,10-phenanthroline are widely used chemiluminescent (CL) reagents for the analysis of a wide range of metals and inorganic and organic complexes. While the fundamental mechanism for luminol and 1,10-phenantholine chemiluminescence is understood, the analytical application of these reagents is largely empirical and often poorly described mechanistically. For example, CL signals observed from metal−luminol systems are strongly dependent on the pH of the sample, even though the final pH of the reaction mixture is controlled to a narrow range by a buffer. Other investigators report significant changes in CL signal due to freshness and the acidity of reagents. Our work shows that many of these effects are due to dissolved CO2 present or formed in the analytical system. The hypothesis that carbon dioxide plays a pivotal role in enhancing luminol CL is supported by direct manipulation of CO2(aq) concentrations by the addition of CO2(g) or carbonic anhydrase. In contrast, Cu(II) analysis using the CL...
Phospholipid fatty acid composition and arachidonic acid uptake and metabolism by the cicada Tibicen dealbatus (Homoptera: Cicadidae)

Abstract 1. 1. The phospholipid fatty acid compositions of whole animals and selected tissues from adult males and females of the cicada Tibicen dealbatus were analyzed. 2. 2. The major components were C16 and C18 saturated and unsaturated acids nearly ubiquitous in most animals. 3. 3. In addition, small quantities of other monoenoic and dieneoic acids, linolenic acid (18:3n−3) , a hydroxy fatty acid (2-OH-20:0) and two prostaglandin precursor fatty acids, 20:3n−6 and arachidonic acid (20:4n−6) were present. 4. 4. The per cent composition of these fatty acids varied considerably between sexes and among the various tissues examined. 5. 5. Injected radioactive arachidonic acid was converted into at least three prostaglandins, PGD2, PGE2, and PGF2α, as well as into other more polar oxygenated derivatives. 6. 6. The data are discussed in terms of a hypothesis linking eicosanoids and thermoregulation in this cicada.
Acute recurrent polyhydramnios and amniotic prolactin.

A 25 year-old patient in her third pregnancy presented with acute polyhydramnios at 24 weeks' gestation, which was the same time as in the two previous pregnancies. In both she had preterm premature rupture of membranes, preterm delivery and neonatal deaths. In the third pregnancy, amnioreductions combined with medical treatment resulted in the birth by Caesarean section of a normally formed live male at 31 weeks of pregnancy. Acute recurrent polyhydramnios is an extremely rare condition of unknown aetiology. We hypothesized that amniotic prolactin plays a role in this pathology. It was measured serially in amniotic fluid and high levels were found.
The 5-minute screening echocardiogram for athletes.

Background Echocardiography is an accurate way to identify common cardiac abnormalities that lead to sudden death. We report a screening echocardiogram protocol incorporated into the routine athletic medical assessment for all incoming college freshman athletes. Methods A limited 2-dimensional echocardiogram was performed on athletes as part of a routine sports physical examination. The examination was performed by sonographers and senior cardiovascular medicine fellows and interpreted in real time by cardiologists using a 1-page checklist. No images were recorded. Results Of the 395 athletes representing 14 sports, 192 were female. The limited 2-dimensional echocardiogram took approximately 5 minutes per athlete. The majority of studies revealed normal findings (84%). A total of 55 had minor abnormalities not requiring follow-up. Five had abnormalities requiring a full echocardiogram and consultation with a cardiologist. Conclusion This study demonstrates that a rapid screening echocardiogram is feasible and can be incorporated into the routine athletic medical examination for incoming varsity athletes.
Piezomodulated reflection spectra of the polydiacetylenes DCHD and THD

Abstract Analysis of vibronic structure in the 300 K piezomodulated reflection (PMR) spectra of DCHD and THD indicates the presence of a single allowed electronic state accompanied by significant hot band activity. Observed vibronic progressions and hot bands are consistent with corresponding Raman spectra. The PMR spectra display an enhanced response to the hot bands.
Interactive relation of insulin and gender to cardiovascular reactivity in healthy young adults

High levels of insulin may promote hypertension pathogenesis, in part, via enhanced sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity. This study examined potential interactive relations of fasting insulin levels, gender, and race to cardiovascular reactivity-a correlate of SNS activation. Hemodynamic re sponses to 4 laboratory challenges were determined by impedance cardiography in 64 healthy young adults (ages 18–26; 48% male; 50% White, 50% African American). Also examined were lipoprotein lipids, central and total adiposity, self-reported dietary factors, and physical activity. High-insulin (< 10,2 μU/ml) men showed greater total peripheral resistance and longer pre-ejection period responses than low-insulin (≤10.2 μUfml) men. High-insulin women displayed greater cardiac index responses than high-insulin men. High insulin levels were related to greater percentage body fat, dietary carbohydrate and fat intake, lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (in men), higher total cholesterol (in women), and a trend toward higher triglycerides. Cardiovascular reactivity findings were unchanged after statistical adjustment for total and HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, percentage body fat, dietary carbohydrates, and fat. The Gender x Insulin (continuous scores) interaction accounted for 7% and 9% of the variance in cardiac index and total peripheral resistance responses, respectively. These results indicate that high insulin levels are associated with greater vascular reactivity in young men and cardiac reactivity in young women. Enhanced cardiovascular reactivity may constitute a biobehavioral dimension of the metabolic syndrome.
Scan Test of Die Logic in 3-D ICs Using TSV Probing

Prebond testing of through-silicon-vias (TSVs) and die logic is a significant challenge and a potential roadblock for 3-D integration. Built-in self-test solutions introduce considerable die area overhead. Oversized probe pads on TSVs to provide prebond test access limit both test bandwidth and TSV density. This paper presents a solution to these problems, allowing a probe card to contact TSVs without the need for probe pads, enabling both TSV and prebond scan test. Several possible prebond scan test configurations are shown—they provide varying degrees of test parallelism under design constraints. HSPICE simulations are performed on two logic-on-logic 3-D benchmarks. Results show that the ratio of the number of probe needles available for test access to the number of prebond scan chains determines which prebond scan configuration results in the shortest test time. Maximum prebond scan-in and scan-out shift-clock speeds are determined for dies in a benchmark 3-D design as a function of driver strength and transmission gate width. These clock speeds show that prebond scan test can be performed at a speed that is comparable with scan testing of packaged dies. The maximum clock speed can also be tuned by changing the drive strength of the probe and on-die drivers of the TSV network. Estimates are also provided for peak and average power consumption during prebond scan test for both a high-power pattern per scan chain and an average power pattern per scan chain. On-die area overhead for the proposed method is estimated to be between 1.0% and 2.9% per die for two 3-D benchmarks.
New properties and characterizations of the dispersive ordering

Abstract New characterizations of the dispersive ordering are established. These include a characterization in terms of the stochastic ordering of the sample spacings, preservation of the ordering by monotone convex (concave) transformations, and preservation of the ordering by truncation at the same quantile. The question of when the sample spacings inherit the dispersive ordering is investigated and, for the important special case of F or G being the exponential distribution, it is shown that F and G are ordered in dispersion if and only if the sample spacings also have the same order.
Clinical management of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia: a review.

Importance Several management strategies may improve outcomes in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Objectives To review evidence of management strategies for S aureus bacteremia to determine whether transesophageal echocardiography is necessary in all adult cases and what is the optimal antibiotic therapy for methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) bacteremia. Evidence Review A PubMed search from inception through May 2014 was performed to identify studies addressing the role of transesophageal echocardiography in S aureus bacteremia. A second search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from January 1990 through May 2014 was performed to find studies addressing antibiotic treatment for MRSA bacteremia. Studies reporting outcomes from antibiotic therapy for MRSA bacteremia were included. All searches, which were limited to English and focused on adults, were augmented by review of bibliographic references from included studies. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system with consensus of independent evaluations by at least 2 of the authors. Findings In 9 studies with a total of 4050 patients, use of transesophageal echocardiography was associated with higher rates of a diagnosis of endocarditis (14%-28%) compared with transthoracic echocardiography (2%-15%). In 4 studies, clinical or transthoracic echocardiography findings did not predict subsequent transesophageal echocardiography findings of endocarditis. Five studies identified clinical or transthoracic echocardiography characteristics associated with low risk of endocarditis (negative predictive values from 93% to 100%). Characteristics associated with a low risk of endocarditis include absence of a permanent intracardiac device, sterile follow-up blood cultures within 4 days after the initial set, no hemodialysis dependence, nosocomial acquisition of S aureus bacteremia, absence of secondary foci of infection, and no clinical signs of infective endocarditis. Of 81 studies of antibiotic therapy for MRSA bacteremia, only 1 high-quality trial was identified. In that study of 246 patients with S aureus bacteremia, daptomycin was not inferior to vancomycin or an antistaphylococcal penicillin, each in combination with low-dose, short-course gentamicin (clinical success rate, 44.2% [53/120] vs 41.7% [48/115]; absolute difference, 2.4% [95% CI, −10.2% to 15.1%]). Conclusions and Relevance All adult patients with S aureus bacteremia should undergo echocardiography. Characteristics of low-risk patients with S aureus bacteremia for whom transesophageal echocardiography can be safely avoided have been identified. Vancomycin and daptomycin are the first-line antibiotic choices for MRSA bacteremia. Well-designed studies to address the management of S aureus bacteremia are needed.
Perineal skin bridge and levator muscle preservation in neutral sagittal anorectoplasty (NSARP) for vestibular fistula

The incision in limited posterior sagittal anorectoplasty for vestibular fistula (VF) extends from the coccyx to the fistula with the rectum identified by partial sagittal division of the levator muscle. In anterior sagittal anorectoplasty, the perineal incision extends from the fistula opening to the posterior margin of the external sphincter complex while preserving intact the levator muscle. We describe a modification of the operation for repair of VF, the neutral sagittal anorectoplasty (NSARP), which preserves both a perineal skin bridge between the neo-anus and the posterior fourchette and the levator muscle. Leaving the perineal skin bridge and the levator muscle intact could be important both from the aspects of perineal wound-healing and functional outcome. The skin incision in NSARP extends from the coccyx to the anterior limit of the external sphincter muscle complex as defined by muscle stimulation. An artery forceps passed through the VF facilitates the location and exposure of the rectum. The levator muscle is left intact. The dissection and closure of the VF is done entirely from within the opened rectum. There is an intact perineal skin bridge between the neo-anus and the posterior fourchette at the completion of the NSARP. In 12 consecutive patients with VF, NSARP prevented the risk of wound complications occurring between the neo-anus and the posterior fourchette. A diverting colostomy was safely avoided in our last five patients. NSARP does not involve any division of the levator muscle and it also retains an undisturbed wad of tissue that could function as the perineal body. All five patients who are 3 years or older demonstrate voluntary bowel movements. Preserving the perineal skin bridge and the levator muscle in NSARP have contributed to the improvement of aesthetic appearance of the perineum and faecal continence in our patients.