cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A psychoeducational bereavement-support group for families provided in an outpatient cancer center

Abstract Background. Grief is a normal and highly personal reaction to loss. Bereavement care (individual and/or group) can assist family members and friends in coping with their feelings of grief, thereby reducing the possibility of complicated grief reactions. The families and significant others of patients who have died in settings other than a hospice do not automatically have the opportunity for bereavement follow‐up. Methods. An eight‐session psychoeducational group that provided pschosocial support and information aimed at assisting in the bereavement process was initiated at an outpatient cancer center. It was led by a family therapist who was a member of a psychosocial services team. Family members and friends of recently deceased patients were invited to participate by letter and phone call. Results. Seven people participated in at least one group session. Participants were asked to complete a face‐valid follow‐up questionnaire three months after completion of the group. Conclusions. Group membe...
Use of Highly Polymorphic DNA Probes for Genotypic Analysis Following Bone Marrow Transplantation

The use of DNA markers known as restriction fragment length polymorphisms is a sensitive and informative method of distinguishing patient and allogeneic donor cells after bone marrow transplantation. To apply the test, it is necessary in each case to find DNA probes that display patient-specific and donor-specific bands in Southern transfer hybridization. We have isolated a set of 12 cloned DNAs from highly polymorphic loci by which siblings can usually be distinguished. With just four of these probes, we can expect to distinguish the genotypes of the recipient and a sibling donor in more than 99% of cases (except between identical twins). The availability of many highly polymorphic probes also allows selection of an optimal probe for each case, one that can detect both the patient and donor-specific bands in a single hybridization with maximum resolution and sensitivity. We have applied these probes to the analysis of cells from peripheral blood and bone marrow after transplantation and demonstrated their usefulness in confirming engraftment of donor cells or graft rejection, and in detecting mixed lympho-hematopoietic chimerism.
Challenges and new applications in vacuum microelectronics: a look at IVMC-2001

IVMC-2001 demonstrated how the vacuum microelectronics field has branched from its initial interest areas, which were predominantly microwave amplifier applications, through a decade of exploration of the field-emission flat-panel display, into new interests which are emerging. The Conference opened with a session on novel applications of field-emission cathodes. New applications include space electronics ("vacuum ICs"), power switches, a free electron laser, nano-scale X-ray sources, high-resolution retarding field analyzers, and spacecraft propulsion systems. There also were presentations of application to high-throughput lithography systems, tera-bit mass storage devices, vacuum fluorescent lights and mercury-free, energy-efficient lamps. There also was a demonstration of the continuing progress in microwave amplifiers and FE displays.
Searching for the Good Plan: A Meta-Analysis of Plan Quality Studies

Despite the centrality of comprehensive plans to the profession of city and regional planning, there is a gap in knowledge about the quality of plans as they are not routinely evaluated against best practice standards. We discuss plan quality evaluation, an emerging methodology for assessing the quality of plans. We review the evolution of the concept, the dimensions covered, and the principles and criteria used. We then provide a comparative meta-analytic analysis of the findings from published plan quality evaluations, ranging from research studies in the United States to national planning policy applications in Holland and New Zealand, and offer recommendations about future directions in improving content analysis of plan documents and research design in plan quality evaluation.
A binding site peptide fragment of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Sequence- specific assignment of IH-NMR resonances in the dodecamer α 185-196

The total sequence-specific 1H assignment for the alpha 185-peptide was accomplished by analysis of COSY spectra along with spin-decoupling and confirmatory NOE difference experiments. Some ambiguities in the assignments were successfully addressed utilizing additional peptides with selective amino acid substitutions. The chemical shifts of several of the C alpha H resonances, along with evidence for a slowly exchanging amide at Thr-191 suggest that the alpha 185-peptide may contain a certain amount of non-random coil structure. The role of any such ordered structure in the mechanism of binding to alpha-bungarotoxin remains to be determined. The assignment of the peptide 1H resonances will facilitate the analysis and identification of chemical shift perturbations observed upon formation of the complex between alpha-bungarotoxin and the alpha 185-peptide [7].
Developmental and regional differences in the consolidation of long-term potentiation.

Abstract The α5β1 integrin is present in high concentrations in the apical dendrites of pyramidal neurons in adult rats but is virtually absent in the basal dendrites. Moreover, α5β1 does not appear in apical dendritic branches until the third post-natal week. Given that integrins contribute to the consolidation of synaptic plasticity, these results raise the possibility of developmental and regional differences in the stability of long-term potentiation (LTP). The present study tested this point using a LTP reversal paradigm in field CA1 of hippocampal slices. In accord with earlier reports, low-frequency afferent stimulation (5 Hz) introduced 30 s after theta burst stimulation (TBS) completely reversed LTP but was ineffective 30 min and 60 min later in slices from adult rats. The same low-frequency trains caused a partial reversal of LTP when applied 30 and 60 min post-TBS in slices from 21-day-old rats and a complete reversal at all time points in slices from 10-day-old rats. LTP in the basal dendrites of adult rats did not fully consolidate; i.e. potentiation was partially reversed by low-frequency stimulation even after delays of 30 or 60 min. Moreover, spaced (10 min) applications of 5- Hz pulses beginning at 30 min post-TBS completely erased LTP. The reversal effect in both apical and basal dendrites was blocked by N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor antagonists but an integrin antagonist had differential effects across the two dendritic domains. These results constitute evidence that the stability of LTP increases with age in the apical dendrites but remains incomplete even in adulthood in the basal dendrites. The possibilities that the developmental and regional variations in LTP consolidation are correlated with integrin expression and linked to different types of memory processing are discussed.
Cytosolic Ca-Dependent Na/Ca Exchange Regulation in Intact Cardiomyocytes: Role of Cytosolic Na

Cytosolic Na ([Na]i) strongly controls cardiac Ca handling and contractility by establishing the thermodynamic Na gradient and hence the operating point for Ca transport via Na/Ca exchange (NCX); e.g. low-[Na]o or glycoside-induced inotropy. Here we investigate how [Na]i might control not only NCX transport but also cytosolic Ca ([Ca]i) dependent activation. We assayed NCX activation in intact rabbit cardiomyocytes (physiological solutions; 37C; no voltage clamp) by applying short (5-sec) 0 Na solution switch steps, which transiently increase [Ca]i when NCX is active. In rested cells, NCX was refractory to activation (no [Ca]i increases even after repeated 0 Na steps), but activated after field stimulation (Ca influx via ICa(L)), and reverted over tens of sec on return to rest. Increasing [Na]i (strophanthidin, 100 μM) made NCX likely to self-activate (0 Na steps became effective) and remain activated or easily reactivated. Mouse cardiomyocytes, where Na pump/leak balance sets [Na]i higher vs rabbit, showed a propensity to self-activation and sustained activation. We simulated NCX activation dynamics in intact cells with a model having fourth-order fully cooperative (Hill) dependence on [Ca]i, with activation K0.5 = 375 nM and forward rate constant 2.53E9 mM−4msec−1, incorporated into a rabbit ventricular cell framework (Shannon et al., Biophys J, 87:3351). The model predicts enhanced and prolonged NCX activation when Na flux balance is changed (↓pump and/or ↑leak) to increase [Na]i by a few mM. We conclude that NCX Ca-dependent regulation as well as transport are instrinsic to control of NCX (and by implication cardiac Ca handling) by [Na]i. While our use of physiological conditions (no voltage clamp) requires us to infer NCX fluxes rather than observe them directly, it also allows us to follow Ca-dependent activation without artificial control of [Na]i, which might perturb temporal dynamics.
Rapid isolation of mammalian Müller cells.

Abstract A procedure has been developed for the rapid isolation of relatively pure populations of glia, Mu¨ller cells, from mammalian retina and is reported here for the rabbit. The retina, cleaned of vitreous, is dissociated by 4 interacting operations — enzymatic digestion of extracellular matrix by means of hyaluronidase, collagenase and papain, removal of divalent cations, acidification and mild trituration. The resultant admixture consists of receptors, neurons and glia; 10% of the cells are Mu¨ller cells. These glial elements can be brought to 95% purity by rapid centrifugation on convex 0–30% Percoll gradients. Of the resultant glia, 80% exclude trypan blue. The Mu¨ller cells are enriched in two glial specific enzymes, glutamine synthetase and carbonic anhydrase and they retain a significant fraction of the membrane bound carbonic anhydrase enzyme activity. Light and scanning electron microscopy show the cells to be well preserved and covered extensively with microvilli. In the outer nuclear zone, the cells are plicated and end in bulbs tufted with microvilli. The procedure we describe allows studies of a new preparation of intact, relatively undamaged, adult, isolated mammalian Mu¨ller cells to better understand the functioning of glial cells.
The posterior palatal seal. A review

The posterior palatal seal area is described and its anatomical borders are defined. The methods used to achieve a seal are (1) scraping the cast, (2) a selective loading impression technique, and (3) a physiological impression technique. Each method is described and its problems are discussed. It is believed by the authors that the physiological impression technique using wax requires the least amount of skill and experience to master competently.
Temperature Variation of the Zero-Field Splitting in Cd Cl 2 : Mn 2 +

The expressions derived previously for the zero-field splitting in trigonal symmetry have been used to study the temperature dependence of the splitting in Cd${\mathrm{Cl}}_{2}$: ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{2+}$ in the temperature range 20-710\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. It has been assumed that a strictly external point-charge point-multipole model is valid. If one considers, because of the lack of available data on the temperature variation of the lattice parameters, that the $c$ dimension of the hexagonal unit cell of the crystal increases linearly with temperature, it is possible to explain the splitting at temperatures below 300 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. To interpret the splitting in the entire range of temperature meaningfully, the structure parameters at these temperatures must be known rather accurately.
Some Hamiltonian properties of L 1 -graphs

Abstract A graph G is called an L1-graph if, for each triple of vertices u, v, and w with d(u,v)=2 and w∈N(u)∩N(v), d(u)+d(v)⩾|N(u)∪N(v)∪N(w)|−1. Let G be a 2-connected L1-graph of order n. If δ(G)⩾(n−2)/3 or σ3(G)⩾n, then G is hamiltonian or G∈ K , where σ 3 (G)= min {d(u)+d(v)+d(w) : {u,v,w} is an independent set in G}, K ={G : K p,p+1 ⊆G⊆K p +(p+1)K 1 for some p ⩾2}. Some results on the traceability of L1-graphs are also obtained.
Fusality: an open framework for cross-platform mirror world installations

As computing and displays become more pervasive and wireless networks are increasing the connections between people and things, humans inhabit both digital and physical realities. In this paper we describe our prototype Mirror Worlds framework, which is designed to fuse these realities: Fusality. Our goal for Fusality is to support innovative research and exhibitions in presence and collaboration, sensors and smart buildings and mixed reality in applications from engineering to art. By fusing live sensor data from the building and its occupants with online 3D environments and participants, we demonstrate a first-principles approach to online multi-entity messaging communication. This demonstration shows how the variety of Mirror Worlds clients can be supported through the open Web architecture. These technologies enable new possibilities for collaboration as well as directions for interoperability. Finally, we layout out our research agenda for the framework and discuss its transformative applications.
The tails of apical scaffolding proteins EBP50 and E3KARP regulate their localization and dynamics.

ERM-binding protein of 50 kDa (EBP50) and NHE3 kinase A regulatory protein (E3KARP) are closely related but show dramatically different dynamics in microvilli. The high dynamics of EBP50 is determi...
Characterization of JC virus in cerebrospinal fluid from HIV-1 infected patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: insights into viral pathogenesis and disease prognosis.

Objectives. To analyze virological and immunological features of AIDS-related progressive multifocal leukoencepalophathy (PML) and their association to disease prognosis. Methods. In HIV-infected patients with virologically confirmed PML, JC virus (JCV) DNA load and levels of Macrophage Chemoattractant Protein (MCP)-1 were determined in cerebrospinal fluid. JCV genotypes, rearrangements and JCV DNA binding sites for cellular transcription factors were analyzed by sequencing the viral VP1 region and regulatory region (RR). Results. 45 patients were analyzed: 60% were exposed to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) after PML and 24% before the disease onset. JCV DNA load in cerebrospinal fluid was a strong predictor of patients survival. Lower levels of JCV DNA in cerebrospinal fluid were associated with the following virologic factors: viral genotype 4 (p = 0.043), more rearrangements in the RR (p = 0.046), duplication of RR block B (p = 0.028), and duplication of binding sites for cellular transcription factor NF-1 (p = 0.060). In patients with prior antiretroviral exposure there was a trend towards a higher number of binding sites for cellular transcription factors (p = 0.068). Lower JCV load was also predicted by exposure to HAART (p = 0.010), higher baseline CD4 counts (p = 0.009) and higher cerebrospinal fluid MCP-1 levels (p = 0.036). In a multiple regression model, MCP-1 levels were independently associated with JCV load. Conclusion. HAART leads to a partial immune-mediated control of JCV replication; the virus may tend to escape through the selection of rearrangements in the RR, some associated with enhanced viral replication efficiency, other resulting in multiplication of binding sites for cellular transcription factors.
Analysis of chromosomal damage after in vivo exposure to 56Fe ions by means of mFISH and micronucleus methods

In this study, we examined the induction of chromosomal damage at day 7 following whole-body exposure of male CBA/CaJ mice to different doses of 1 GeV/amu 56Fe ions (0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 Gy) or 137Cs γ rays as the reference radiation (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0 Gy, using a GammaCell40). Two cytogenetic assays were used to evaluate dose–response relationships for the induction of chromosomal damage. These include: (1) the whole-genome multi-color fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH) technique to examine chromosomal damage in metaphases prepared from bone marrow (BM) cells and (2) the mouse in vivo micronucleus (MN) assay to evaluate chromosomal damage (induced in the bone marrow) in blood erythrocytes. By means of the mFISH method, we detected all types of aberrations from mice exposed to either 56Fe ions or 137Cs γ rays. These were translocations (Robertsonian, reciprocal and incomplete one-way types), dicentrics and breaks (both chromatid- and chromosome-types). Each type of radiation-induced significant dose-dependent increases (ANOVA, p < 0.01) in the frequencies of chromosomal damage (including the numbers of abnormal cells). Our data indicated that the 56Fe ions were more effective (per unit dose) than 137Cs γ rays in inducing damage: about four times for abnormal cells or breaks (both chromatid- and chromosome-types), and 1.6 times for exchanges (all types). Complex chromosome rearrangements were also found in BM cells of mice exposed to 1.0 Gy of 56Fe ions or 3.0 Gy of 137Cs γ rays, but their frequencies were low. Moreover, the frequencies of complex exchanges found at day 7 after exposure of mice to 1.0 Gy of 56Fe ions or 3.0 Gy of 137Cs γ rays were similar. By means of the blood MN assay, we detected dose-dependent increases in the frequencies of MN in normochromatic erythrocytes (NCE or mature red blood cells) at day 7 following in vivo exposure to 56Fe ions or 137Cs γ rays. In contrast, only a slight increase in the frequency of MN in polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE or immature red blood cells) was detected at day 7 in blood samples of mice exposed to 56Fe ions, but not 137Cs γ rays. The MN–NCE data showed that 56Fe ions were approximately four times more efficient in inducing chromosomal damage than 137Cs γ rays. The results demonstrated the sensitivity of the mouse in vivo MN assay in detecting chromosomal damage that was induced in the bone marrow of mice exposed in vivo to varying doses of 56Fe ions, when appropriate cell types were used for the analysis at a specific time post-irradiation. However, the MN assay is incapable of detecting stable-type chromosomal damage (e.g., translocation) making the MN assay less informative than the mFISH method.
Reduction in the Rationality Problem for Multiplicative Invariant Fields

Abstract For a faithful ZG lattice A and a field K on which the group G acts by field automorphisms, let R be the normal subgroup generated by the elements of G which act trivially on K and act as reflections on A. We prove that the rationality of the multiplicative invariant field K(A)G over K(AR)G is equivalent to the rationality of K(A)ΩG over K (AR)ΩG where ΩG is a particular subgroup of G such that G /R ≅ ΩG. We then use this reduction result to prove that K(A)G is rational over K where G is the automorphism group of a crystallographic root system Ψ, G acts trivially on K and A is any lattice on the space QΨ.
Nucleation-controlled solidification kinetics

Solidification microstructures are usually classified with the respect to the growth processes responsible for the observed morphology. However, experience has demonstrated that several regimes of processing conditions can be identified in which nucleation is the determining factor in the phase selection and the evolution of the solidification microstructure. Several of these regimes are analyzed to identify the influence of nucleation on the final microstructure. In most cases, nucleation occurs by heterogeneous catalysis with competitive kinetics between different sites and product structures. The proper analysis of heterogeneous nucleation requires a clear identification and description of active catalytic sites which has been a continuing challenge for both experiments and analysis since nucleation signatures can be masked by subsequent reactions. A strategy for the systematic exploration of heterogeneous nucleation in alloys is described that yields some information about possible atomistic and dynamic effects at the catalyst/melt interface that is of theoretical and practical interest. Additionally, computer simulation studies are described that elucidate some of the atomistic features of nucleation which become increasingly important when a multiplicity of nucleation sites is observed with a hierarchy of potency.
Dynamic programming meets the principle of inclusion and exclusion

We show that several combinatorial existence problems can be attacked by solving associated enumeration problems using a combination of dynamic programming and the principle of inclusion and exclusion. In comparison with the usual dynamic programming algorithms, the new methods have somewhat greater execution time but require far less storage.
Induction of a Visual Symbolic Rule in Children with Specific Language Impairment.

In a design modeled after that of Connell and Stone (1992), two alternative instructional conditions (Modeling and Imitation) were used to teach a novel morpheme to a group of 21 children with Spec...
Analytic Delphi Method (ADM): A strategic decision making model applied to location planning

Abstract Location decisions have a significant impact on the efficiency and success of an institution. Where an organization is located affects not only its ability to compete effectively but also itstransportation costs, labor costs, employee morale, public relations, etc. Location decisions are based on multiple criteria at least some of which are intangible, even emotional. This study proposes the Analytic Delphi Method (ADM), which permits the incorporation of intangible as well as tangible factors into the decision making process. The study illustrates ADM's application to location planning. ADM's strength lies in its integration of two strong methodologies: the Delphi method (a widely used forecasting and planning tool) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (a mathematical model for multicriteria decision making).
Inactivation of Legionella pneumophila by potassium permanganate

Abstract Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) was investigated for its ability to inactivate cultures of agar‐grown Legionella pneumophila in a phosphate buffer (pH 6.0 and pH 8.0) at 7°C At pH 6.0, significantly higher inactivation rates, k values, (0.300 log10 reduction min−1 of L. pneumophila were observed compared to those at pH 8.0 (0.032 log10 reduction min−1). By exposure to 5.0 mg L−1 KMnO4 more than 99% (2 log10 cfu mL−1) reduction in the bacterial numbers was achieved within 10 minutes at pH 6.0; however, at pH 8.0, at least 60 min was required for 99% reduction. KMnO4 was significantly more effective at 5.0 mg L−1 compared to 2.5 and 1.0 mg L−1. Water systems with KMnO4 may gain disinfection credits as proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
On Some Transforms of Distribution Functions and their Relationships

Some interrelationships between various transforms like total time on test, the density quantile function, the score function, the exponential function and the failure rate quantile function are surveyed. These relationships are employed to establish some characterization results of distribution functions. Some formulae for the transforms of distribution functions, often used in nonparametric statistics and survival analysis, are also presented to illustrate these relationships.
A coverslip culture technique for preparing permanent fungus mounts

A coverslip culture technique for the growth of fungi, with subsequent preparation of permanent mounts for microscopic examination, is described. This simplified technique allows examination at different stages of development of the fungus, or can be used in the preparation of large numbers of similar mounts for teaching purposes.
Surgery and obstructive sleep apnea: long-term clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVEOutcome data on the surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea are, in general, based on short-term follow-up (<6–9 months). This examination was undertaken to assess long-term results....
Mesoscopic fault array of the northern Umbrian Apennine fold belt, Italy: Geometry of conjugate shear by pressure-solution slip

The strata of the northern Umbrian Apennine fold belt are cut by an array of mesoscopic faults that generally display strike- or oblique-slip offset. The majority of these faults have traces less than a few metres long and represent displacements of < 10 cm. Fault surfaces are associated with stylolites and are coated with elongate calcite fibers, suggesting that movement occurred by the mechanism of pressure-solution slip. Crosscutting relationships indicate that faulting occurred before, during, and perhaps after regional folding. The slip on the faults permitted translations of mesoscopic blocks with respect to one another, thereby accommodating regional strain. There is a great range among fault attitudes, but two clusters forming a conjugate set with about a 90° dihedral angle stand out. The mean trend of left-lateral faults of this pair is N72°E, whereas the mean trend of right-lateral faults is N16°W. The bisector between these two fault clusters is about 15° away from the normal to the regional fold axes. This unusual orientation pattern of mesoscopic faults of the study area may indicate that the mechanics of initiating faults in rocks undergoing pressure-solution deformation is different from that in rocks undergoing purely brittle deformation. Alternatively, the fault pattern may indicate that the faults represent slip on pre-existing fractures. If this latter situation is true, the geometry of the fault array may merely reflect the geometry of the pre-existing joint array.
Bush Energy Plan packed with proposals to increase supply

With more than 100 recommendations that range from promoting solar energy to urging the revitalization of nuclear power, the energy plan released by U.S. President George W. Bush on May 17 could be said to have something for everybody. However, the plan appears to offer much more for those who favor increasing domestic fossil fuel supplies than for those pushing for more efficiency in energy usage and renewable energy Noting that the United States faces “the most serious energy shortage since the oil embargoes of the 1970s,” the plan put forth by the National Energy Policy Development (NEPD) Group under Vice President Dick Cheney tries to meet three challenges. These are: using energy more wisely repairing and expanding the U.S. energy infrastructure, and increasing energy supplies while protecting the environment.
Vertical externality and strategic delegation

This paper examines the effects of vertical externality generated by the upstream monopoly on the incentives that owners of competing downstream firms give their managers. It is shown that the introduction of the upstream monopoly may have significant effects on the incentive schemes for the downstream firms' managers. In particular, it is shown that in equilibrium, each owner obtains the simple Nash equilibrium outcome regardless of the mode of competition (quantity or price) in the downstream market. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Science from the inside

Most scientists think of science as completely objective, but lab studies by social scientists — including several carried out in nanotechnology labs — suggest that it is more subjective than many scientists realize. Chris Toumey looks at the results of these studies.
The physiological response in patients with acute myocardial infarction to the administration of psychological instruments.

The administration of psychologically provocative research instruments could serve as a transient source of stress and spuriously affect results. To determine whether the administration of selected psychosocial instruments activates the stress response, we examined the physiological stress response of stable patients post–myocardial infarction (MI) to completing the Beck Depression Inventory, the Illness Perception Questionnaire, and the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory 24 to 48 hours post–acute event. Salivary cortisol, heart rate variability (HRV), heart rate, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured prior to instrument administration and 30 minutes after as indicators of the stress response. Twenty-four subjects (16 men) completed the study. Mean baseline measures of salivary cortisol (0.558 mcg/dL), heart rate (86 bpm), and MAP (86 mm Hg) were within normal ranges. A repeated-measures analysis of variance demonstrated no significant difference in salivary cortisol,F(1, 23) = 2.59, NS; HRV,F(1...
The Effect of Hindfoot Realignment in Triple Arthrodesis

Triple arthrodesis is a useful form of surgical intervention for repair of advanced hindfoot deformity. Crucial to the success of triple arthrodesis is achievement of a suitable alignment of the hindfoot in relation to the leg and forefoot. A number of radiographic measurements can be used to describe the resultant alignment of the foot and, in this article, we present the results of a review of a series of 28 triple arthrodeses, in 24 patients, followed for a median duration of 19 (range 12 to 38) months. The results of this investigation showed clinically and statistically significant improvements in the anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle and talo-first metatarsal angles, and the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle; and triple arthrodesis realigned the hindfoot primarily by means of transverse plane movement of the talus over the calcaneus, and sagittal plane realignment occurred primarily by means of reduction of the downward pitch of the talus rather than by means of elevation of the pitch of the calcaneus. Only 1 (1.19% of fusion sites, 3.57% of cases, 4.17% of patients) symptomatic nonunion was observed. Correlation analyses showed that a normal (35° to 50°) preoperative lateral talocalcaneal angle was moderately inversely correlated, and a normal (≤ 21°) preoperative lateral talar declination angle was strongly positively correlated, with none to mild postoperative pain. Based on these findings, we concluded that triple arthrodesis satisfactorily realigned the hindfoot and reduced pain in patients with advanced arthrosis. Level of Clinical Evidence: 4
E-002 Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome treated with intra-arterial vasodilator therapy: a case report

Background Reversible vasoconstriction syndrome has been described as an important cause of cerebral arteriopathy and/or vasoconstriction, with non-aneurysmal SAH recently being noted as a more common presentation that previously recognized. No standardized treatment exists and serious complications such as ischemic stroke have been reported. Although distal segmental narrowing is typical, proximal vessel occlusions have been reported. Case Report A 43-year-old female marathon runner presented to an outside hospital following a thunderclap headache with initial negative head CT and lumbar puncture. 1 week later after worsening headache and nausea, a repeat head CT revealed right frontal intraparenchymal hematoma. A CT angiogram revealed right carotid terminus occlusion and scattered diffuse segmental narrowings. She was treated with steroids and nimodipine. Following progression of symptoms including left hemi-inattention, she was transferred to our facility and found to have a large right parietal infarct, subarachnoid hemorrhage along the right frontal cortex and multifocal moderate to severe segmental stenoses. Her NIH stroke scale was 16. Based on our experience with intra-arterial verapamil for the treatment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, she was taken to angiography where confirmation of multifocal proximal and distal segmental vascular narrowing was made and intra-arterial verapamil was given: 5 mg in the right internal carotid artery, 20 mg in the left internal carotid artery and 10 mg in the left vertebral artery. Immediate clinical improvement was appreciated despite modest angiographic changes. Daily transcranial Doppler studies were performed, along with induced hypertension and monitoring of central venous pressure. Systemic verapamil and high dose steroids were also administered. She returned to the angiography suite four times in the next 5 days week for clinical symptoms (left arm weakness, agitation and confusion) or elevated transcranial Doppler studies and was found to have a similar and recurrent pattern of vasospasm. She received similar intra-arterial treatment at each angiogram, again with clinical and angiographic improvement. At the time of discharge, the patient9s left sided weakness and cognitive deficits had resolved but she suffered from residual left hemi-inattention. Conclusion We describe a patient with severe, medical-treatment refractory RCVS who demonstrated clinical and radiographic response to repeated treatment with intra-arterial vasodilator therapy.
A Solution in Search of a Problem? Discrimination, Affirmative Action, and the New Public Service

E-mail: selden@lynchburg.edu. ne of the defining challenges of the ongoing transition from government-centered to multisectored models of new governance in the 21st century is maintaining the values that one cherishes in a democracy. One value that has historically been pursued in the administrative state is attaining a workforce that "looks like America." For some, this means having a public workforce that reflects America's diversity (passive representation), with less concern about whether that representation influences the substantive policy outputs of public agencies (active representation). To others, looking like America is important so that all groupsespecially historically underrepresented or excluded groups-can actively promote and implement public policies that reflect the needs, values, and aspirations of the groups they represent.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: The Relation of Parent and Adolescent Depressive Symptoms

Adolescents with IBD are at risk for depressive symptoms and lower HRQOL. The association of adolescent and parent depressive symptoms with adolescent HRQOL is examined while controlling for disease activity. Adolescents (N = 86) and their caregivers completed measures of depressive symptoms. Adolescents completed an IBD-specific HRQOL measure. Parent depression significantly moderated the relation between adolescent-reported depressive symptoms and HRQOL. HRQOL decreased as adolescent depressive symptoms increased. This relation was only significant among adolescents with parents reporting higher depressive symptoms. Adolescent depressive symptoms are associated with lower HRQOL. The presence of parent depressive symptoms intensifies this relation.
Understanding the behavior of TCP for real-time CBR workloads

In this paper, we examine the feasibility of sending real-time CBR workloads over TCP. This is motivated by the friendliness of NATs and firewalls towards TCP as opposed to UDP as well as by recent improvements in Internet's bandwidth and loss rates. Traditionally, TCP has been considered undesirable for real-time CBR workloads. We evaluate this assertion by developing a novel analytical tool that yields TCP's sender-to-receiver socket delay distribution for CBR workloads. A key insight gained is that the use of smaller than MSS-sized packets in CBR workloads can exploit the TCP's ACK counting mechanism thereby limiting the delay impact of congestion window variations. We leverage this insight to provide a heuristic and system-level guidelines for reducing TCP transport delays.
Viscosity of ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene alternating copolymers

Low shear rate viscosity measurements of alternating copolymers of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene (PETFE) melts have been performed at different temperatures by using the centrifuge ball viscometer. The viscosity η (Pa s) could be obtained with an empirical relation, αc=(4.29±0.08) × 102(ηV∝)0.856±0.004,with αc and V∝, being, respectively, the acceleration (g=9.8 ms−2 and the terminal velocity (ms−1) of a stainless steel ball of 1.58 mm diameter moving in the polymer melt, which was flame sealed in a horizontal cylindrical glass tube of 4.26 mm diameter. For the temperature dependence of the viscosity, an activation energy Ea of 15.3 kcal mol−1 was determined. The activation energy for PETFE is between 5.7–14.6 kcal mol−1 for polyethylene (PE) and 18–36 kcal mol−1 for tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). A relationship between the zero shear rate viscosity η0 (Pas) and the molecular weight Mw (g mol−1) of PETFE copolymer melts at 280°C [η0=(1.23±0.02) × 10−16(Mw)3.43±0.06] should permit us to determine the molecular weight of PETFE with the centrifuge ball viscometer.
Perceived values of recreational urban parks with reference to Simferopol in the Republic of Crimea and Raleigh in the USA

This article compares the values of the environment, and the sense of social and political responsibility in public recreational areas in two cities: Simferopol in Crimea in Ukraine, and Raleigh in North Carolina in the USA. The respondents were users of recreational urban park spaces and were assessed through a written survey of both populations. This study found both commonalities in the values and constructions held, as well as important differences that point to the future of environmental protection in the NIS (Newly Independent States). It was designed to assess respondent perceptions of the dynamic environmental conditions that currently exist in the post-Soviet city for future planning and development initiatives.
Synthesis of plant-mediated gold nanoparticles and catalytic role of biomatrix-embedded nanomaterials.

Growth of Sesbania seedlings in chloroaurate solution resulted in the accumulation of gold with the formation of stable gold nanoparticles in plant tissues. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the intracellular distribution of monodisperse nanospheres, possibly due to reduction of the metal ions by secondary metabolites present in cells. X-ray absorption near-edge structure and extended X-ray absorption fine structure demonstrated a high degree of efficiency for the biotransformation of Au(III) into Au(0) by plant tissues. The catalytic function of the nanoparticle-rich biomass was substantiated by the reduction of aqueous 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). This is the first report of gold nanoparticle-bearing biomatrix directly reducing a toxic pollutant, 4-NP.
Negotiating for a computer: technical evaluation of the tenders

Procedures are described for the systematic assessment of tenders including verification of functional scope, response characteristics in interactive systems and robustness to equipment failure.
Resilience in rural community -dwelling older adults

ABSTRACT: Context:Identifying ways to meet the health care needs of older adults is important because their numbers are increasing and they often have more health care issues. High resilience level may be one factor that helps older adults adjust to the hardships associated with aging. Rural community-dwelling older adults often face unique challenges such as limited access to health care resources. Purpose: To determine the resilience level of rural community-dwelling older adults and to determine if socio-demographic factors, social networks, and health status are associated with resilience. Methods: Data were collected from 106 registered voters, aged 65 years or over from a rural area in New York State using a cross- sectional design. The instruments used in the study include the Resiliency Scale, the SF-12v2, and the Lubben Social Network Scale-Revised. Findings: The mean resilience level of the sample was high. Resilience was not correlated with any of the socio-demographic factors which included gender, age, income, education, marital, and employment status. There was a weak positive correlation between social networks and resilience levels of rural older adults. Both physical and mental health status were positively correlated with resilience. In a regression model, mental health status was the strongest predictor of resilience levels. Conclusion: If low resilience levels are identified in rural community-dwelling older adults, interventions to build resilience may be helpful in promoting independence; however, further research is needed to determine this.
Thermoelectric energy harvesting for a solid waste processing toilet

Over 2.5 billion people do not have access to safe and effective sanitation. Without a sanitary sewer infrastructure, self-contained modular systems can provide solutions for these people in the developing world and remote areas. Our team is building a better toilet that processes human waste into burnable fuel and disinfects the liquid waste. The toilet employs energy harvesting to produce electricity and does not require external electrical power or consumable materials. RTI has partnered with Colorado State University, Duke University, and Roca Sanitario under a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Reinvent the Toilet Challenge (RTTC) grant to develop an advanced stand-alone, self-sufficient toilet to effectively process solid and liquid waste. The system operates through the following steps: 1) Solid-liquid separation, 2) Solid waste drying and sizing, 3) Solid waste combustion, and 4) Liquid waste disinfection. Thermoelectric energy harvesting is a key component to the system and provides the electric power for autonomous operation. A portion of the exhaust heat is captured through finned heat-sinks and converted to electricity by thermoelectric (TE) devices to provide power for the electrochemical treatment of the liquid waste, pumps, blowers, combustion ignition, and controls.
Detection of hydroquinone-induced nonrandom breakage in the centromeric heterochromatin of mouse bone marrow cells using multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization with the mouse major and minor satellite probes.

Fluorescence in situ hybridization with a mouse major satellite probe and CREST staining were used to characterize the origin of micronuclei occurring in mouse bone marrow erythrocytes following administration of the benzene metabolite hydroquinone. Hydroquinone was administered to male CD-1 mice by i.p. injection on three consecutive days and the bone marrow cells were harvested 24 h later. A pronounced difference in the results was observed using the two approaches: 63% of the micronuclei induced by hydroquinone labeled with the major satellite probe whereas only 28% labeled with the CREST antibody. To determine whether the observed difference was due to a disruption of the kinetochore or a result of breakage within centromeric heterochromatin, we developed a tandem label multicolor hybridization assay, which requires the presence of both the mouse major and minor satellite probes in a micronucleus for a classification of chromosomal loss. The minor probe targets a centromeric region physically linked to the short arm of mouse chromosomes, whereas the major probe hybridizes to the centromeric heterochromatin adjacent to the long arm. Using this approach, 29% of the micronuclei induced by hydroquinone hybridized with both the major and minor satellite probes, indicating chromosome loss; an additional 37% labeled with only the major satellite probe indicating breakage within the centromeric heterochromatin. Although the region targeted by the major satellite probe comprises only 5-10% of the mouse genome, these major-probe containing micronuclei represent 53% of the micronuclei formed as the result of chromosome breakage.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Magnetostrictive resonators as sensors and actuators

Abstract Two types of magnetostrictive resonators – magnetostrictive microcantilever (MSMC) and magnetostrictive particle (MSP) – have been introduced as sensor platforms. Their principles and advantages as sensor platforms are discussed along with the materials selection. A detailed and complete comparison between the MSMC and MSP is given. It is concluded that for the resonators with the same size, an MSP exhibits a higher sensitivity and has a much higher resonant frequency. For the resonators with the same resonant frequency, MSMCs exhibit a much higher sensitivity and have a much smaller size than MSPs. Using antibody as the sensing element, MSP biosensors for in situ detection of Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes are developed and characterized. These biosensors exhibit a high performance. For example, the MSP-antibody biosensors of 1 mm × 0.3 mm × 15 μm exhibit a detection limit less than 100 cfu/ml for in situ detection of bacterial cell in water. A new type actuator is introduced using MSPs. The MSP actuator is operated using AC magnetic field with a frequency close to, but different than, its resonant frequency. The MSP actuator exhibits an unlimited displacement, and its moving direction is controlled by the operating frequency used.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of shikimate kinase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis in complex with MgADP.

Shikimate kinase (SK) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mt) was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, purified and cocrystallized with MgADP in hanging drops using the vapor-diffusion procedure with PEG 4000 and 2-propanol as precipitants at pH 7.5. The crystal of MtSK–MgADP, which diffracted to 2.2 A resolution, belonged to space group P3221 or P3121, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 64.01, c = 92.41 A. There was one MtSK molecule in the asymmetric unit. Molecular-replacement trials with the crystal structure of SK from Erwinia chrysanthemi (PDB code 1shk) and adenylate kinase (PDB code 1ake) as search models were not successful. Heavy-atom derivative screening is in progress.
Effect of confinement on the ordering of symmetric diblock copolymers: application of interfacial statistical associating fluid theory

Diblock copolymers consist of two chemically distinct polymer chains (blocks) covalently bonded together. Due to the differences in the physiochemical properties of these blocks, the copolymers can undergo order–disorder transitions (ODT) at the molecular level, resulting in microphase-separated states. Control of these microstructures has significant impact on the technological applications of diblock copolymers. Diblock copolymers exhibit a variety of microstructures, which depend on the relative compositions of the two distinct blocks. In the case of symmetric diblock copolymers, the equilibrium structure is the lamellar structure where each lamellar layer is an A–B or B–A repeat unit. We use interfacial statistical associating fluid theory (iSAFT) density functional theory to analyse the morphologies of symmetric diblock copolymers in bulk melts and ultra-thin films confined between two planar surfaces. For bulk melts, the effect of the length of the copolymer and incompatibility between the blocks of...
Investigation of exact analytic solution for oblique propagation in chiral sculptured thin films and smectic liquid crystals

An exact matrix polynomial series solution for oblique propagation in chiral sculptured thin films and chiral smectic liquid crystals is analyzed. The convergence of the series is investigated via calculations for a range of wavelengths, incidence angles, and material parameters. Implementation of this method is compared with the piecewise uniform permittivity approximation method.