cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A new radiographic scoring system for bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Objectives: To develop a simple, clinically meaningful radiographic score for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). To investigate its reliability, validity, and usefulness and to compare it to the Edwards score. Working hypothesis: Our radiographic scoring of BPD is reliable, correlates with respiratory support, and provides a necessary standardization in comparing severity of respiratory disease between hospitals. Study design: Prospective cohort study. Patient selection: The study included all neonates (n = 366) with birth weight below 1501 g admitted to 7 neonatal intensive care units, who had chest radiographs taken at age 25–35 days. Methodology: A simple radiographic scoring system was developed. Scores ranging from 0 to 6 were assigned based on standard radiographs and descriptors of degree of abnormality. All radiographs taken between days 25 and 35 of age (n = 1087) were graded by a radiologist and a neonatologist. Radiographs from a stratified random sample of 37 neonates (10%) were also scored by the method of Edwards (n = 128 radiographs). A respiratory support index was constructed for days 25–35 and correlated with the radiographic score. Results: Between-reader correlation was r = 0.87 for our score and r = 0.88 for the Edwards score. The two scores correlated with each other at r = 0.94. The respiratory support index correlated with our radio-graphic score at r = 0.75 overall, and r = 0.56 to 0.88 within hospitals. Higher postnatal corticosteroid use was found at the hospitals with the lower correlations. Conclusions: Our radiographic scoring is reliable, valid, and gives results similar to the Edwards score. Radiographs play a standardizing role in assessing severity of BPD between hospitals.Pediatr Pulmonol. 1994;18:284–289 © Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Theorizing creative agency through ‘discerned savvy’: a tool for the critical study of media industries

This article contributes to the critical study of media industries by introducing the concept ‘discerned savvy.’ Through interviews with editors of the US men’s lifestyle magazines GQ, Esquire, and Details, I identify an informal process by which workers in media production cultures accrue knowledge about the preferences of their superiors and then accordingly narrow the range of creative ideas that they propose throughout the production process. The identification of this knowledge, which I call discerned savvy, aims to help media scholars theorize how creative workers’ agency may be subtly circumscribed in ways that maintain the hegemony of particular textual forms and ideologies in cultural industries even in the absence of formal policy and directly articulated expectations regarding creativity.
Characteristics of airborne particles inside southern California museums

The concentrations and chemical composition of suspended particulate matter were measured in both the fine and total size modes inside and outside five southern California museums over summer and winter periods. The seasonally averaged indoor/outdoor ratios for particulate matter mass concentrations ranged from 0.16 to 0.96 for fine particles and from 0.06 to 0.53 for coarse particles, with the lower values observed for buildings with sophisticated ventilation systems which include filters for particulate matter removal. Museums with deliberate particle filtration systems showed indoor fine particle concentrations generally averaging less than 10 μg m^(−3). One museum with no environmental control system showed indoor fine particle concentrations averaging nearly 60 μg m^(−3) in winter and coarse particle concentrations in the 30–40 μg m^(−3) range. Analyses of indoor vs outdoor concentrations of major chemical species indicated that indoor sources of organic matter may exist at all sites, but that none of the other measured species appear to have major indoor sources at the museums studied. Significant fractions of the dark-colored fine elemental (black) carbon and soil dust particles present in outdoor air are able to penetrate to the indoor atmosphere of the museums studied, and may constitute a soiling hazard to works of art displayed in museums.
Generating pseudorandom numbers on a two's complement machine such as the IBM 360

The familiar multiplicative congruential generator is examined in the context of the type of two's complement arithmetic used in the IBM 360 series. Different sequences of residues are considered and relationships established among them. It is shown that a sequence of positive and negative residues may be produced more simply and econimically than with the conventional approach and yet have twice the period of the latter without loss of desirable statistical properties. Another easily generated sequence involving absolute values is also shown to have twice the period but with the less attractive statistical properties. The statistical properties of these sequences are given and related to previously established criteria.
Characterization of an Ampicillin-Resistant Haemophilus influenzae Type B

A 28-year-old female in Denver was found in early 1974 to have frontal sinusitis, osteomyelitis, and bacteremia due to Haemophilus influenzae, type B. The minimal inhibitory concentration of ampicillin for this organism was 100 mug/ml and the minimal bactericidal concentration was >100 mug/ml. It was inhibited by chloramphenicol at 0.4 mug/ml. Further studies demonstrated that ampicillin and methicillin were synergistic against this organism. It was shown to produce a diffusible beta-lactamase. Transferase of resistance from this organism to a susceptible Haemophilus parainfluenzae and a reciprocal transfer were accomplished. A test for transformation was negative as was a test for reversal of resistance by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.
Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins as growth inhibitors in children with chronic renal failure

Children with chronic renal failure (CRF) often fail to attain an adult height consistent with their genetic potential. The growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor (IGF)/growth plate chondrocyte axis has been intensively studied in these children to determine the basis for this growth failure. Evidence suggests that hepatic GH resistance results in deficient expression of IGF-I. However, serum IGF-I levels are usually normal and it is IGF-I action on target tissues which is inhibited, possibly by the presence of excess high-affinity IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) in CRF serum. In this paper we evaluate the roles of IGFBP-1, -2, and -3 as growth inhibitors in CRF children. The data support a role for each of these IGFBPs as growth inhibitors. Currently, IGFBP-1 meets most criteria expected of a growth inhibitor, but IGFBP-2 and -3 will likely also meet these criteria and may well be important contributors to the growth failure of CRF. Ultimately, many or all of the six IGFBPs may be found to contribute to the excess high-affinity IGF binding sites which are a hallmark of CRF serum and are possible contributors to the growth failure of CRF children.
A survey of communicative disorders students' attitudes toward stuttering

Abstract Cooper's (1975) Clinician Attitudes Toward Stuttering (CATS) inventories were conpleted by 1,902 speech-language pathology and audiology students from 33 universities, each in a different state. The majority of respondents perceived stutterers as having psychosocial problems and believed that client and parental counseling were essential aspects of treatment. These views were relatively unaffected by student training and clinical exposure. In addition, most of the assumptions of Johnson's diagnosogenic theory of stuttering were held by the majority of the students surveyed. Most of the respondents believed that stuttering was difficult to modify and that speech clinicians were neither adept nor comfortable treating stutterers. These latter attitudes were significantly affected by training, i.e., the more advanced the students' training, the more pessimistic their views on clinician competence. Other professional attitudes and the effect of training on them are also discussed.
Using cost-effectiveness league tables to compare interventions to prevent sexual transmission of HIV.

Cost-effectiveness information is needed to help public health decision makers choose between competing HIV prevention programs. One way to organize this information is in a 'league table' that lists cost-effectiveness ratios for different interventions and which facilitates comparisons across interventions. Herein we propose a common outcome measure for use in HIV prevention league tables and present a preliminary league table of interventions to reduce sexual transmission of HIV in the US. Fifteen studies encompassing 29 intervention for different population groups are included in the table. Approximately half of the interventions are cost-saving (i.e. save society money, in the long run), and three-quarters are cost-effective by conventional standards. We discuss the utility of such a table for informing the HIV prevention resource allocation process and delineate some of the difficulties associated with the league table approach, especially as applied to HIV prevention cost-effectiveness analysis.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Cytolethal Distending Toxin Activates the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Human Macrophages, Leading to the Release of Proinflammatory Cytokines

The cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt) is produced from a number of bacteria capable of causing infection and inflammatory disease. Our previous studies with Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans Cdt demonstrate not only that the active toxin subunit functions as a phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate (PIP3) phosphatase but also that macrophages exposed to the toxin were stimulated to produce proinflammatory cytokines. We now demonstrate that the Cdt-induced proinflammatory response involves the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Specific inhibitors and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) were employed to demonstrate requirements for NLRP3 and ASC as well as caspase-1. Furthermore, Cdt-mediated inflammasome activation is dependent upon upstream signals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and Cdt-induced increases in extracellular ATP levels. Increases in extracellular ATP levels contribute to the activation of the P2X7 purinergic receptor, leading to K+ efflux. The relationship between the abilities of the active toxin subunit CdtB to function as a lipid phosphatase, activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, and induce a proinflammatory cytokine response is discussed. These studies provide new insight into the virulence potential of Cdt in mediating the pathogenesis of disease caused by Cdt-producing organisms such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.
Spectral gamma-ray log interpretation algorithms using the Monte Carlo multiply scattered components approach

Abstract New algorithms for spectral gamma-ray log interpretation have been developed on the basis of a novel approach originally developed for natural gamma-ray log interpretation using the lithology-independent Monte Carlo multiply scattered components (MCMSC) approach. With separation of density and composition effects, the new algorithms have fewer parameters and have been designed for both natural gamma-ray and gamma-gamma litho-density logs.
Diffusion length and surface recombination velocity measurements with the scanning electron microscope: The highly-doped emitter of a p-n junction

Abstract Analytical solutions of the electron-beam induced current response for a spherical source excitation are formulated for a finite region of semiconductor using the method of images. The analytic approach is different from that normally reported for semi-infinite region analysis because it incorporates a third boundary condition into the problem. Consequently, it is more general because it is valid for all regions of width greater than or equal to two real excitation volume radii. The analytic solutions predict that absolute, not relative, current responses must be used to determine diffusion lengths in finite regions of semiconductors and that the slope of the response is relatively insensitive to the surface recombination velocities. The solutions are demonstrated to correctly fit normalized data for the response of a highly-doped emitter.
Selective adsorption of fluorocarbons and its effects on the adhesion of plasma polymer protective coatings

Cathodic DC plasma deposited films have shown promise as intermediate adhesion and barrier layers for use in the interface engineering of corrosion protection systems on various materials. The surface treatment of plasma deposited trimethylsilane (TMS) films with various post-deposition plasma treatments can improve the adhesion of various paints to these films, which are usually strongly adhered to underlying substrates. Research into the application of these systems for corrosion protection of aluminum alloys included post-deposition treatments of the TMS films with hexafluoroethane (HFE) plasmas, which was seen to significantly improve the adhesion of primers. Oxygen plasma cleaning of the alloy surfaces, prior to deposition of the TMS film, is normally employed to remove organic contaminants. During testing of sample aluminum panels, one batch was processed without the oxygen plasma treatment and exhibited extensive adhesion failures. The investigation of these results shows that low levels of fluorocarbon contaminants readily react with the alloy surface and deposit a fluorine containing carbonaceous layer, which dramatically interferes with the adhesion of the plasma polymer to the alloys, but the adhesion with primer coatings remains tenacious. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies also show that the presence of even low levels of these contaminants in the chamber, during the oxygen cleaning process, is sufficient to induce the conversion of the surface from oxide to a mixture of oxide and fluoride. This conversion is considered detrimental to the corrosion resistance of these systems.
Fabrication and Characterization of a Novel Nanoscale Thermal Anemometry Probe

The development, fabrication, and characterization of a novel nanoscale thermal anemometry probe (NSTAP) for measuring velocity fluctuations in turbulent flows are described. This miniature MEMS anemometer consists of a freestanding 30 or 60 × 1 × 0.1 μm platinum filament with electrically conductive pads and a silicon structure. A novel deep reactive ion etching lag-based process for fabricating a 3D silicon support structure is described together with other microfabrication steps. The sensors behave similarly to conventional hotwire anemometers, with an order of magnitude better spatial and temporal resolution. Batch fabrication allows a relatively low-cost high-yield process, which together with its superior frequency response and size, make it an attractive thermal anemometry sensor for velocity measurements in turbulent flows.
Frustration and finite size effects of magnetic dot arrays

The static magnetic order and dynamic magnetic response of arrays of small ferromagnetic dots are studied, and the effects of lattice geometry are examined through weak dipolar coupling between magnetic dots. Array size and applied field orientation are found to have important effects on the magnetization process.
Control of the structure and sooting characteristics of a coflow laminar methane/air diffusion flame using a central air jet: An experimental and numerical study

Abstract Multi-port co-annular burners are widely used in practice to achieve low NO x and soot emissions from combustion devices. However, there is lack of fundamental studies on the structure and flame regime under different flow conditions. A conventional laminar axisymmetric coflow diffusion flame burner was modified by introducing a central air jet inside the fuel tube to investigate how the central air jet velocity affects the structure and sooting characteristics of a coflow methane/air diffusion flame. The modified burner produces a double flame structure: an inner inverse diffusion flame or an inner partially premixed flame and an outer normal diffusion flame. Experiments were conducted to observe the effect of the central air jet velocity on the appearance of the flame. At a given and relatively low central air jet flow rate the inner flame can be either a partially premixed one or an inverse diffusion one, depending on how the central air jet flow rate is adjusted. The overall flame structure and sooting characteristics can be controlled effectively by varying the flow rate of the central air jet. Detailed numerical calculations were conducted using GRI-Mech 3.0 without the NO x chemistry and a simplified soot model. Numerical results reproduce the experimental observations and provide detailed information on the flow field, temperature, and species concentration distributions. The central air jet is an effective aerodynamic means to control the flame size, structure, and sooting characteristics.
Effects of prostaglandin E2 and indomethacin on sexual behavior in the female rat

Abstract Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) facilitated sexual behavior in estrogen-primed ovariectomized or ovariectomized-adrenalectomized rats. Administration of indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, attenuated the effectiveness of estrogen and progesterone in inducing sexual receptivity in ovariectomized rats. Concurrent administration of PGE2 with indomethacin restored sexual behavior only when administered early in the estrogen-priming period but not if administered along with the progesterone. Our studies support the likelihood of a role of prostaglandins in the control of sexual behavior in the female rat.
Kinetic energy spectra of divergent wind in the atmosphere

Spectral analysis of kinetic energy of the divergent wind in the zonal wave number domain has been performed using the National Meteorological Center wind field of January 1979. It is shown that the kinetic energy spectrum of the divergent wind in the high wavenumber regime (8 ? l ? 18) follows a ?2 power law. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1981.tb01734.x
Group treatment format: Mixed sexual dysfunctions

This study reports the rationale and results of a ten-session group composed of six couples with mixed sexual dysfunctions. Dysfunctions included premature ejaculation, primary and situational orgasmic dysfunction, situational impotence, and incompatible sex drives. A variety of pretreatment behavioral and attitudinal measures were administered, including a Life History Questionnaire, Sexual Assessment Inventory, Marital Adjustment Scale, and Sexual Interaction Inventory. Postgroup measures revealed marked increases in marital satisfaction, orgasmic attainment, ejaculatory control, and enhan ed self-acceptance, particularly for females (SII changes). The consistency between outcome measures was also a noteworthy finding. The results suggest increased use of mixed short-term groups, particularly when cost-effectiveness accountability is important. One contraindication for such groups is, however, severe marital discord, as evidenced by Locke-Wallace mean scores of 80 or less.
Prevalence of Mupirocin Resistance in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius

ABSTRACT In the United States, veterinary use of mupirocin is primarily limited to the treatment of canine pyoderma caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP). In this study, only 1 of 581 S. pseudintermedius isolates tested was resistant to mupirocin and carried the high-level mupirocin resistance gene, ileS2 , on a plasmid.
Nearly symmetric and nearly baroclinic instabilities in the presence of diffusivity. Part 1. Growth rate patterns

Computations are performed to examine the instabilities of baroclinically sheared Eady basic flows with respect to banded normal-mode perturbations in three-dimensional space in the presence of eddy diffusivity with two (free-slip and non-slip) types of boundary conditions. The non-dimensional model system contains four external parameters: the Richardson number, the Ekman number, the Prandtl number and the ratio between inertial and buoyancy frequencies. The solutions are controlled mainly by the first three parameters. Growth rate patterns are computed for unstable modes as functions of the horizontal wavelength, l, and tilt angle a of the band orientation with respect to the basic shear (measured negative clockwise from the basic-shear direction). It is found that the main growth rate pattern (for non-propagating modes with respect to the middle-level basic flow) has only one maximum unless the Ekman number is sufficiently small. The growth rate pattern obtained with the free-slip boundary conditions has a slightly larger global maximum and is more symmetric with respect to the symmetric axis in the (l, a) space than that obtained with the non-slip boundary conditions. When the Richardson number is increased from 0.25 to 1.0, the maximum growth rate decreases and the associated instability changes gradually from a nearly symmetric type to a nearly baroclinic type as manifested by the continuous increase of l (from mesoscale to synoptic scale) and continuous change of a (from nearly zero to nearly -90°). When the Ekman number is sufficiently small, the main growth rate pattern can have two local maxima if the Richardson number is within a subrange 0.8 < Ri < 1.0. One of the local maxima is near the symmetric axis and the other is near the baroclinic axis in the wavenumber space. When the Richardson number increases through a transitional value in the subrange, the global maximum growth rate decreases continuously but the maximum point jumps from one local maximum to the other and the associated instability switches from a nearly symmetric type to a nearly Eady baroclinic type. The subrange depends on the smallness of the Ekman number and it diminishes as the Ekman number increases to 0.0025 (for the non-slip case). The computed growth rates and (l, a) are compared with the nearly inviscid results of Miller & Antar and the inviscid results of Stone.
Equilibrium distribution sampling device for preparation of calibration mixtures for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

A simple approach for preparing standard mixtures of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds is reported. When placed in a closed container, standard mixture components partition between a polymeric material such as poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) and headspace to provide constant vapor concentrations. The granular form of heat-conditioned PDMS provides rapid equilibration with the headspace vapor and serves as a standard reservoir. Solid phase micro extraction (SPME) or gas-tight syringe can be used to deliver sample from the headspace to the analytical instrument. Quantitative calibration can be achieved with either active temperature control or by using a previously constructed look-up table. The effects of PDMS form and temperature on equilibrium distribution, initial equilibrium time, and re-equilibrium time after sampling were investigated. With respect to long term use and stability, analytes introduced onto 2.0 g of PDMS in a 7.4 mL vial were sampled more than 114 times during a test period of 43 days, giving chromatographic peak area %RSD values below 4.5% for all compounds. This device was designed to be solventless, quantitative, reproducible, environmentally friendly, and robust for routine evaluation and calibration of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) systems.
Abstract 3694: Activation of ASK1 by capsaicin mediates apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells

Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase kinase family plays an essential role in reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced cellular response. Thioredoxin (Trx), a redox sensitive protein binds to ASK1 and inhibits its activation. In our previous study, we have shown that capsaicin induced apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells was associated with the generation of ROS and persistent disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. In the present study, we evaluated the interaction of thioredoxin/ASK1 in pancreatic cancer cells. In a concentration dependent study, we observed that capsaicin treatment down regulated thioredoxin and increased the phosphorylation (activation) of ASK1 at Thr845 in AsPC-1 and BxPC-3 cells. ASK1 has been shown to activate JNK, which in turn activates MKK4/7 resulting in the cleavage of caspase-9, and caspase-3. In agreement, our results reveal that capsaicin treatment activated JNK, MKK4/7, caspase-9 and caspase-3. Interestingly, treatment of cells with antioxidants such as tiron or catalase blocked the activation of ASK1 cascade by capsaicin and protected the cells from apoptosis indicating the involvement of ROS in the activation of ASK1. To confirm the interaction of Trx/ASK1 and the dissociation of ASK1 by capsaicin in our model, BxPC-3 cell were transiently transfected with contructs encoding ASK1 fused to C-terminal hemaggutinin (HA) and flag tagged Trx. Our results reveal that Trx over expression suppressed the effects of capsaicin whereas ASK1 over expression enhanced the apoptosis-inducing effects of capsaicin. Taken together, our results suggest that ROS generated by capsaicin reduce Trx expression resulting in the activation of ASK1 and downstream effectors leading to apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. [Supported in part by R01 grants CA106953 and CA129038 (to S.K.S) awarded by the National Cancer Institute]. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3694. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3694
Limitations of the Mass Isotopomer Distribution Analysis of Glucose to Study Gluconeogenesis HETEROGENEITY OF GLUCOSE LABELING IN INCUBATED HEPATOCYTES

We previously reported (Previs, S. F., Fernandez, C. A., Yang, D., Soloviev, M. V., David, F., and Brunengraber, H. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 19806–19815) that glucose made in isolated livers from starved rats perfused with physiological concentrations of lactate, pyruvate, and either [2-13C]- or [U-13C3]glycerol had a mass isotopomer distribution incompatible with glucose being made from a homogeneously labeled pool of triose phosphates. Similar data were obtained in live rats infused with [U-13C3]glycerol. We ascribed the labeling heterogeneity to major decreases in glycerol concentration and enrichment across the liver. We concluded that [13C]glycerol is unsuitable for tracing the contribution of gluconeogenesis to total glucose production. We now report isotopic heterogeneity of gluconeogenesis in hepatocytes, even when all cells are in contact with identical concentrations and enrichments of gluconeogenic substrates. Total rat hepatocytes were incubated with concentrations of glycerol, lactate, and pyruvate that were kept constant by substrate infusions. To modulate competition between substrates, the (glycerol)/(lactate + pyruvate) infusion ratio ranged from 0.23 to 3.60. Metabolic and isotopic steady states were achieved in all cases. The apparent contribution of gluconeogenesis to glucose production (f) was calculated from the mass isotopomer distribution of glucose. When all substrates were13C-labeled, f was 97%, as expected in glycogen-deprived hepatocytes. As the infusion ratio ([13C]glycerol)/(lactate + pyruvate) increased,f increased from 73% to 94%. In contrast, as the infusion ratio (glycerol)/([13C]lactate + [13C]pyruvate) increased, f decreased from 93% to 76%. In all cases, f increased with the rate of supply of the substrate that was labeled. Variations in fshow that the 13C labeling of triose phosphates was not equal in all hepatocytes, even when exposed to the same substrate concentrations and enrichments. We also showed that zonation of glycerol kinase activity is minor in rat liver. We conclude that zonation of other processes than glycerol phosphorylation contributes to the heterogeneity of triose phosphate labeling from glycerol in rat liver.
WE-C-217BCD-03: Restricted Data Set Reconstruction Based on Respiration Quality to Improve Prospectively Gated in Vivo Micro-CT of Mice.

Purpose: Micro‐CT is commonly employed for lungimaging of mice; prospective gating allows for in‐vivo imaging of free‐breathing subjects. While this technique is successfully executed for healthy animals, results are less consistent for some disease models whose symptoms include irregular or unstable respiration. The purpose of this work is to repair the quality of high‐blur images that arise from respiration instability using a retrospective method of motion reduction which identifies the individual x‐ray projection images contributing most to the motion blur. Reconstructions were performed after the exclusion of these projections (the so‐called restricted set). Methods: Sixteen mice were imaged using field emission cone beam micro‐CT and prospective gating with a bellows‐type respirationsensor. The scanner was operated in step‐and‐shoot mode; 400 projection images were acquired per scan. An algorithm was developed to analyze the respiration trace file and segment the individual breath corresponding to each projection image. We tested three different criteria to define a bad breath shape (correlation, mean breath height, or mode breath height), and restricted data set reconstructions were performed using each of these criteria to exclude projections corresponding to bad breaths. Each restricted set was compared against the full unrestricted data set image; the slope perpendicular to the diaphragm was used as a quantitative assessment of motion blur. Results: All image sets saw a reduction in motion blur with at least one restriction technique. In 22 of 27 images, improvement was measured regardless of the removal criterion. Five percent total projection removal is optimal; a more aggressive correction increases the likelihood of under‐sampling artifacts. Conclusions: Removing a subset of bad projections from otherwise complete image sets measurably decreases motion blur in respiratory‐gated imaging. An approach based on breath height generally provides the best results. The technique is applicable to a variety of imaging modalities.
Fritless capillary columns for HPLC and CEC prepared by immobilizing the stationary phase in an organic polymer matrix

A new design of immobilized particle separation media for capillary liquid chromatography and electrochromatography has been developed. A mixture of porogenic solvents and methacrylate-based monomers is pumped through a packed column to provide, following a polymerization step, an organic matrix capable of holding the sorbent particles in place, thus rendering the end frits unnecessary. The new columns demonstrate excellent chromatographic performance in both CEC (reduced plate height [h] =1.1−1.5) and micro LC modes (h = 2.2−2.5), while minimizing secondary interactions encountered when silica-based entrapment matrixes are employed. In addition to delivering mechanically robust columns, the methacrylate matrix provides a mechanism for fine tuning of the electroosmotic flow velocity when 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) is incorporated into the polymerization mixture.
Disparities in access to health care among non-citizens in the United States

AbstractThis paper examines the extent to which US citizenship status affects the probability of a person’s having a usual source of care and the predictors associated with access to health care among non-citizens. The research is founded on the analysis of data from the 2005 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) (n = 33,187 adults, ages 18–64). Guided by a modified Andersen model of access to health care, the researchers conducted a series of logistic regression analyses using the survey data to compare native-born citizens with non-citizens who were 1.6 times less likely to access a usual source of care. Among non-citizens, insurance status, shorter duration of residence in the United States, and lower levels of English proficiency were related to a lower probability of having a usual source of care. Based on this research it is argued that affordable health care and health insurance options and access to culturally and linguistically sensitive services are needed to increase access to health care a...
Physical and Biological Basis of Proton and of Carbon Ion Radiation Therapy and Clinical Outcome Data

There is a clear basis in physics for the clinical use of proton and carbon beams in radiation therapy, namely, the finite range of the particle beam. The range is dependent on the beam initial energy, density and atomic composition of tissues along the beam path. Beams can be designed that penetrate to the required depth and deliver a uniform biologically effective dose across the depth of interest. The yield is a superior dose distribution relative to photon beams. There is a potential clinical advantage from the high linear energy transfer (LET) characteristics of carbon beams. This is based on a lower oxygen enhancement ratio (OER) and a flatter age response function. However, due to uncertainties relating OER with relative biological effectiveness (RBE), there is no clinical evidence to date that carbon ion beams have an advantage over proton beams. We strongly support performance Phase III clinical trials of protons vs carbon ion beams designed to feature a single variable, LET. Dose fractionation would be identical in both arms and dose distribution would be similar for the sites to be tested. For sites for which the carbon beam has a demonstrated important advantage in comparative treatment planning due to the narrower penumbra would not be selected for the clinical trials.
Lead Poisoning: Basics and New Developments

1. Latha Chandran, MD, MPH* 2. Rosa Cataldo, DO† 1. *Editorial Board. 2. †Assistant Clinical Instructor, Department of Pediatrics, Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, NY. After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Delineate the disparities of pediatric lead poisoning among socioeconomic and racial groups. 2. List three common sources of lead. 3. Describe the emerging data on immediate and long-term neurotoxic effects of lead on the developing brain. 4. Discuss two chelating agents and their common adverse effects. 5. Employ a multipronged, multidisciplinary approach in the overall management of pediatric lead poisoning. For many centuries, starting as early as 4000 BC, lead has been used for a variety of purposes. Ancient Romans used lead for glazing pottery, piping, cooking utensils, and sweetening of wine. Lead toxicities were well documented in Egyptian papyrus rolls, describing its use for homicidal purposes. Over the centuries, lead poisoning was noted by different terms such as “the miner's disease,” “lead blindness,” “lead colic,” “lead gout,” and “plumbism.” It was a common cause of morbidity and mortality among shipbuilders, wine drinkers, and potters. Lead encephalopathy and lead psychosis also were recognized early in human history, when potters were described as “paralytic, splenetic, lethargic, cachectic, and toothless.” The use of lead became widespread during the industrial revolution. Use of lead-based paints, gasoline, and food containers resulted in profound environmental contamination. The toxic clinical effects of lead poisoning in children were linked to lead-based paint used in the early 20th century. More than half of the homes built in the United States before 1950 contained lead paint. Lead-based paints were banned in the United States in 1977 (the maximum allowable amount is now 0.07 mg/cm2), and the United States Environmental Protection Agency phased out lead from gasoline between 1975 and 1986. Due to measures such …
Hybrid Manufacturing System Modeling and Development

Reliable and economical fabrication of metallic parts with complicated geometries is of considerable interest for the aerospace, medical, automotive, tooling and consumer products industries. In an effort to shorten the time-to-market, decrease the manufacturing process chain, and cut production costs of products produced by these industries, research has focused on the integration of multiple unit manufacturing processes into one machine. The end goal is to reduce production space, time, and manpower requirements.Our research into hybrid manufacturing systems has lead to the integration of additive and subtractive processes within a single machine footprint such that both processes are leveraged during fabrication. The laser aided manufacturing process (LAMP) system provides a rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing infrastructure for research and education. The LAMP system creates fully dense, metallic parts and provides all the advantages of commercial laser metal deposition (LMD) systems. This hybrid system is a very competitive and economical approach to fabricating metallic structures. Hybrid manufacturing systems facilitate a sustainable and intelligent production model and offer flexibility of infrastructure to adapt with emergent technology, customization, and changing market needs.This paper summarizes the salient research activities and the findings of those activities related to the modeling and development of the hybrid manufacturing system. Our qualitative and quantitative modeling efforts, as well as the resultant system architecture are described.The approach and strategies utilized in this research coalesce to facilitate an interdisciplinary approach to the development a hybrid manufacturing system to produce metal parts that are not only functional but also processed to the final desired surface-finished and tolerance. Furthermore, the approach to hybrid system modeling and development can assist in general with integrated manufacturing systems.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Outline of a Multiple-Access Communication Network Based on Adaptive Arrays

We propose here a single-frequency communication system consisting of K mobile users simultaneously communicating with a central station equipped with a computationally adapted array consisting of n \geq K antennas. The array employs K sets of n weights to segregate the signals received from the K users. The weights are determined by direct computation based on position information transmitted by the users. Currently known techniques require (for n = K ) about (4/3)K^{4} computer "operations" (multiply and add). We develop here an improved technique that accomplishes that in 8K^{3} operations, yielding a reduction by a factor of K/6 .
Longitudinal evaluation of the mechanical properties of biomineralized osteoblasts

Understanding how biomineralization occurs in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of bone cells is crucial to the development of a successfully engineered bone tissue scaffold, and to date there has not been a well-established method for the quantitative examination of bone mineralization in situ. We investigated the mechanical properties of MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells in vitro using shear modulation force microscopy (SMFM). The elastic modulus of the mineralizing cells increased at time points corresponding to mineral production, whereas that of the non-mineralizing cells did not vary significantly over time.
A mixed integer optimization approach for simultaneous data reconciliation and identification of measurement bias

Abstract The problem of data reconciliation and the detection and identification of gross errors, such as measurement bias, are closely related. This close relationship prompted the development of a technique that combines these ideas within a mixed integer optimization framework. This paper describes such an approach and demonstrates its performance with a challenging test problem.
The relation of gender-role orientation to sexual experience among college students.

This study examined the relations of gender and three aspects of gender roles — self concept, behavior, and sexual attitudes — to three aspects of sexual behavior — sexual experience, reasons for intercourse, and contraceptive use. Gender was strongly related to all three aspects of sexual behavior. For both men and women, sex role behaviors were related to sexual experience and to reasons for intercourse, but not to contraceptive use, and sex role self-concept was unrelated to any of the aspects of sexual behavior. The results indicate that sexual behavior is influenced both by societal gender role norms and by individual differences in the acceptance of those norms.
Effect of sodium in a rehydration beverage when consumed as a fluid or meal

To investigate the impact of fluid composition on rehydration effectiveness, 30 subjects (15 men and 15 women) were studied during 2 h of rehydration after a 2.5% body weight loss. In a randomized crossover design, subjects rehydrated with water (H2O), chicken broth (CB: 109.5 mmol/l Na, 25.3 mmol/l K), a carbohydrate-electrolyte drink (CE: 16.0 mmol/l Na, 3.3 mmol/l K), and chicken noodle soup (Soup: 333.8 mmol/l Na, 13.7 mmol/l K). Subjects ingested 175 ml at the start of rehydration and 20 min later; H2O was given every 20 min thereafter for a total volume equal to body weight loss during dehydration. At the end of the rehydration period, plasma volume was not significantly different from predehydration values in the CB (-1.6 +/- 1.1%) and Soup (-1.4 +/- 0.9%) trials. In contrast, plasma volume remained significantly (P < 0.01) below predehydration values in the H2O (-5.6 +/- 1.1%) and CE (-4.2 +/- 1.0%) trials after the rehydration period. Urine volume was greater in the CE (310 +/- 30 ml) than in the CB (188 +/- 20 ml) trial. Urine osmolality was higher in the CB and Soup trials than in the CE trial. Urinary sodium concentration was higher in the Soup and CB trials than in the CE and H2O trials. These results provide evidence that the inclusion of sodium in rehydration beverages, as well as consumption of a sodium-containing liquid meal, increases fluid retention and improves plasma volume restoration.
SYNONYMICAL NOTES ON THE PSENINE WASPS (HYMENOPTERA, SPHECIDAE)

In the course of reviewing the Psenine wasps, it has become apparent that the names of several Nearctic species are homonyms or incorrect. These are discussed briefly and renamed below.
Clinical applications of carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography

During an 18-month period 33 patients in whom there were contraindications to the use of iodinated contrast arteriography underwent 40 carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriograms for lower extremity ischemia (19), severe hypertension and renal insufficiency (12), or arterial aneurysm (2). Contraindications to iodinated contrast agents included renal insufficiency, congestive heart failure, and contrast hypersensitivity. Sixteen aortic, 15 iliac-femoral-popliteal-tibial, five aorta-iliac-femoral and four aorta-iliac-femoral-popliteal-tibial carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography studies were performed. In 11 studies, imaging of selected arterial segments required the addition of 10 to 60 ml of dilute nonionic contrast. Guided by carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography studies four femoral-tibial bypasses, three aneurysmorrhaphies, two aortorenal bypasses, one aortofemoral bypass and one femoral-femoral bypass were successfully performed in 11 patients. In addition, carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography directed angioplasties of the common iliac (4), superficial femoral (6), popliteal (3), or tibioperoneal trunk (1) were performed in 10 patients. Complications of carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography included transient deterioration in renal function in three patients in whom 20 ml of nonionic contrast was used, a nonfatal myocardial infarction after a popliteal percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in one patient, and transient tachypnea and tachycardia during a carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography study in one patient. Diagnostic arteriograms are obtainable using carbon dioxide as the contrast agent. Carbon dioxide/digital subtraction arteriography permits patients with symptomatic arterial disease at high risk for contrast related complications to safely undergo arteriography and subsequent arterial reconstruction or endovascular intervention.
Three-Dimensional Simulations of Magnetic Priming of a Relativistic Magnetron

Using a hybrid approach, 3-D simulations of magnetic priming of a relativistic magnetron have been performed. The primed magnetic field values were calculated using a magnetostatics code (Magnum) and then imported into a particle-in-cell code (Magic PIC) and run for the case of a six-vane relativistic magnetron. The magnetically perturbative structures chosen for implementation in these simulations were sets of three high-permeability wires of various lengths, which would be placed within the cathode, the anode, or, in the combined case, both the cathode and anode. In the best-performing cathode-wire case (three 4-cm wires), magnetic priming was found to reduce the start-oscillation time of the magnetron to 50% that of the unprimed case. When wires were embedded in both the cathode and the anode, the best-performing case (4-cm cathode wires and 4-cm anode wires) was found to start oscillating at 30% of the start-oscillation time of the unprimed case. The cases of magnetically primed magnetrons were found to exhibit slightly reduced equilibrium power levels, compared with the unprimed case.
A Bayesian Framework for Uncertainty Quantication in the Design of Complex Systems

One of the main challenges of current system design practices is the inability to recognize performance, cost, and schedule risks as they emerge. This paper presents a Bayesian framework for the design of complex systems, in which uncertainty in various parameters and quantities of interest is characterized probabilistically, and updated through successive design iterations as new estimates become available. Incorporated in the proposed model are methods to quantify system complexity and risk, and reduce them through the allocation of resources for redesign and re nement. This approach enables the rigorous quanti cation and management of uncertainty, thereby serving to help mitigate technical and programmatic risk. The Bayesian system design framework is demonstrated on the notional design of a hybrid infantry ghting vehicle for military applications.
Impaired Control and Undergraduate Problem Drinking

Aims: Impaired control, one of the hallmarks of addiction, is also one of the earliest dependence symptoms to develop. Thus impaired control is particularly relevant to undergraduates and other young adults with relatively brief drinking histories. The main goal of this study was to determine whether impaired control predicted heavy episodic drinking and alcohol-related problems cross-sectionally in an undergraduate sample after controlling for gender, family history of alcohol and drug problems, and several other established predictor variables from the undergraduate alcohol literature. Methods: A sample of first-year undergraduates (n = 312) completed Part 2 of the Impaired Control Scale (ICS) and other measures related to alcohol use as part of a larger study on problem drinking in undergraduates. Results: Scores on Part 2 of the ICS predicted heavy episodic drinking and alcohol-related problems cross-sectionally even after controlling for all other predictor variables. Notably, impaired control was a stronger predictor of alcohol-related problems than overall weekly alcohol consumption. Part 2 of the ICS was found to be a reliable and valid measure for use with undergraduates. Conclusions: These findings support the notion that impaired control is one of the earliest dependence symptoms to develop. The ICS is an effective tool for identifying young adults at risk for problem drinking.
Bandwidth Limitations on Noiseless Optical Channel Capacity

Even in noiseless optical channels one must take into account the fact that the time resolution available is finite. An optimization scheme under the constraint of a given information rate (in nats/second) and minimum time-slot resolution is presented. It is shown that system efficiencies in excess of tens of nats/photon will be extremely difficult to achieve due to fundamental time resolution limitations.