cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Cholangitis Rates with Extended Perioperative Antibiotics and Adjuvant Corticosteroids in Biliary Atresia.

Purpose There is no consensus regarding adjuvant therapies following Kasai portoenterostomy (KP) for biliary atresia (BA). This study aimed to analyze the effect of extended perioperative intravenous antibiotics (PI-Abx) and adjuvant corticosteroid on cholangitis and jaundice clearance rates in the 3 years post-KP in children with BA. Methods Data of patients who underwent KP between 1999-2018 at a single center were retrospectively analyzed. Group A (1999-2010) received PI-Abx for 5 days, Group B (2010-2012) received PI-Abx for 5 days plus low-dose prednisolone (2 mg/kg), and Group C (2012-2017) received PI-Abx for 14 days plus high-dose prednisolone (5 mg/kg). Results Fifty-four patients were included with groups A, B, and C comprising 25, 9, and 20 patients, respectively. The number of episodes of cholangitis was 1.0, 1.6, and 1.3 per patient (p=NS) within the first year and 1.8, 2.3, and 1.7 (p=NS) over 3 years in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. The jaundice clearance rate at 6 months was 52%, 78%, and 50% (p=NS), and the 3-year native liver survival (NLS) rate was 76%, 100%, and 80% (p=NS) in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. A near-significant association was observed between the incidence of cholangitis within the first year and decompensated liver cirrhosis/death at 3 years post KP (p=0.09). Persistence of jaundice at 6 months was significantly associated with decompensated cirrhosis/death at 3 years (p<0.001). Conclusion The extended duration of PI-Abx and adjuvant corticosteroids was not associated with improved rates of cholangitis, jaundice clearance, or NLS in patients with BA.
Sub-Acute Syndesmotic Injury: A Review and Proposed Treatment Algorithm.

Sub-acute syndesmotic injuries are classified as from six weeks to six months from the initial injury date and can be considered a distinct group of patients; however, they are often mistreated and progress to chronic injuries with significant sequelae. The authors performed a comprehensive literature search on the MEDLINE database. The search yielded 165 studies up to January 2021, after the application of inclusion/exclusion criteria. This yielded 10 studies with a total of 156 relevant patients for review. We found that a delay in diagnosis is common and has a negative impact on outcomes. If a sub-acute syndesmotic injury is suspected and plain radiographs are inconclusive, magnetic resonance imaging is indicated if there is still an index of suspicion. Surgical intervention should aim to restore normal length and rotational alignment of the fibula whilst also addressing the need to debride tissues within the joint and syndesmosis. Syndesmosis must then be adequately reduced and stabilised with syndesmotic screw fixation, and augmentation with tendon/ligament reconstruction should be considered. All studies showed an average improvement in functional outcome measures post-operatively. The only study to compare sub-acute and chronic patients’ functional outcomes post-operatively showed significant improvement in the sub-acute cohort; highlighting the importance of early intervention. We suggest a treatment algorithm that may help with the diagnosis and management of these injuries. We believe this will help all healthcare professionals to standardise care. Further research is required to assess sub-acute injury outcomes with tendon/ligamentous augmented reconstruction, as no level 1 or 2 studies currently exist.
Predicting the energetics and kinetics of Cr atoms in Fe-Ni-Cr alloys via physics-based machine learning

Abstract The energy and activation barrier distributions of Cr atoms in austenitic alloys are investigated over a multiplicity of modeling samples across a wide range of chemical (e.g. solid solutions vs. segregated states) and microstructural (e.g. bulk vs. grain boundaries) environments. Assisted with a physics-based machine learning algorithm, it is found that the thermodynamic and kinetic behaviors of Cr atoms can be reliably predicted according to the local electronegativity ( χ ) and free volume of local atomic packing (Vv). The corresponding predictive maps in the χ − V v parameter space are established, which are in line with existing experiments and validated by a parallel modeling with a different interatomic force field. The implications of the present study regarding its potential to guide the design of austenitic alloys with desired properties are also discussed.
High contrast reflectance imaging of simulated lesions on tooth occlusal surfaces at near-IR wavelengths.

Introduction In vivo and in vitro studies have shown that high contrast images of tooth demineralization can be acquired in the near-infrared (near-IR) without the interference of stain. The purpose of this study is to compare the lesion contrast in reflectance at near-IR wavelengths coincident with high water absorption with those in the visible, the near-IR at 1,300 nm and with fluorescence measurements for early lesions in occlusal surfaces. Methods Twenty-four human molars were used in this in vitro study. Teeth were painted with an acid-resistant varnish, leaving a 4 × 4 mm window in the occlusal surface of each tooth exposed for demineralization. Artificial lesions were produced in the exposed windows after 1- and 2-day exposure to a demineralizing solution at pH 4.5. Lesions were imaged using near-IR reflectance at three wavelengths, 1,300, 1,460, and 1,600 nm using a high definition InGaAs camera. Visible light reflectance, and fluorescence with 405 nm excitation and detection at wavelengths greater than 500 nm were also used to acquire images for comparison. Crossed polarizers were used for reflectance measurements to reduce interference from specular reflectance. Results The contrast of both the 1- and 2-day lesions were significantly higher (P < 0.05) for near-IR reflectance imaging at 1,460 and 1,600 nm than it was for near-IR reflectance imaging at 1,300 nm, visible reflectance imaging, and fluorescence. Conclusion The markedly higher contrast at 1,460 and 1,600 nm wavelengths, coincident with higher water absorption, suggest that these wavelengths are better suited than 1,300 nm for imaging early/shallow demineralization on tooth surfaces. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:533–541, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distributed Intelligent Control of Flexible Manufacturing Systems

A flexible manufacturing system (FMS) consists of a set of machines that are connected via tracks over which parts may be transported for processing. As parts arrive at a machine via the tracks, they are put in a buffer (queue) where they are held before they are processed. There is a local controller (scheduling policy) at each machine which decides which part type to process next; hence the overall controller for the FMS is physically distributed across the entire FMS. In this paper we show how to design an intelligent (fuzzy) controller for a single machine. In addition, we introduce an adaptive fuzzy controller which can automatically synthesize/tune itself to achieve good throughput rates for the single machine. Next we show that by using such adaptive fuzzy controllers in a distributed fashion, we obtain a distributed intelligent controller (DIC) which can automatically synthesize and tune itself and achieve good throughput rates for the entire FMS.
A simple surgical treatment of intraoral fibrous scars utilizing a skin graft. Report of a case.

Abstract A case has been reported in which an unusual intraoral condition was adequately treated by surgical means with a relatively simple skin-grafting procedure.
Effect of Variable Engine Valve Timing on Fuel Economy

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) has been demonstrated by other authors as a means of improving engine performance and idle quality. The possibility of improving fuel economy as well with VVT is investigated here. Among these, Late Intake Valve Closing (LIVC) is shown to be practical concept applicable to engines with two intake valves per cylinder where the intake valves can be phased relative to each other to extend the total intake opening period
Identification of Bacillus anthracis specific chromosomal sequences by suppressive subtractive hybridization

Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus cereus are closely related members of the B. cereus-group of bacilli. Suppressive subtractive hybridization (SSH) was used to identify specific chromosomal sequences unique to B. anthracis. Two SSH libraries were generated. Genomic DNA from plasmid-cured B. anthracis was used as the tester DNA in both libraries, while genomic DNA from either B. cereus or B. thuringiensis served as the driver DNA. Progressive screening of the libraries by colony filter and Southern blot analyses identified 29 different clones that were specific for the B. anthracis chromosome relative not only to the respective driver DNAs, but also to seven other different strains of B. cereus and B. thuringiensis included in the process. The nucleotide sequences of the clones were compared with those found in genomic databases, revealing that over half of the clones were located into 2 regions on the B. anthracis chromosome. Genes encoding potential cell wall synthesis proteins dominated one region, while bacteriophage-related sequences dominated the other region. The latter supports the hypothesis that acquisition of these bacteriophage sequences occurred during or after speciation of B. anthracis relative to B. cereus and B. thuringiensis. This study provides insight into the chromosomal differences between B. anthracis and its closest phylogenetic relatives.
Traffic sign recognition based on prevailing bag of visual words representation on feature descriptors

Driver Assistance Systems such as traffic sign detection and autonomous car research are largely facilitated with the recent advances on computer vision and pattern recognition. In this work, Bag of visual Words technique has been implemented on Speeded Up Robust Feature (SURF) descriptors of the traffic signs and later the sturdy classifier Support Vector Machine (SVM) is used to categorize the traffic signs to its respective groups. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method of implementation can reach an accuracy of 95.2%.
Casimir forces between cylinders at different temperatures

We study Casimir interactions between cylinders in thermal nonequilibrium, where the objects as well as the environment are held at different temperatures. We provide the general formula for the force, in a one reflection approximation, for cylinders of arbitrary radii and optical properties. As is the case for equilibrium, we find that the force for optically diluted cylinders can be obtained by appropriate summation of the corresponding result for spheres. We find that the nonequilibrium forces are generally larger than their equilibrium counterpart at separations greater than the thermal wavelength. They may also exhibit oscillations as function of separation, leading to stable points of zero net force. These effects are particularly pronounced for thin conducting cylinders (e.g. 40 nm diameter nanowires of tungsten) due to their large emissivity.
Tendon transfer fixation in the foot and ankle: A biomechanical study evaluating two sizes of pilot holes for bioabsorbable screws

The purpose of this study was to compare the initial fixation strengths of bioabsorbable screws for tendon transfers in the foot and ankle when the pilot hole size varied. A 7times20 mm screw was used with 5.5 mm and 6.5 mm drill holes, and a 5times20 mm screw was used with 3.9 mm and 4.5 mm drill holes. Biomechanical testing was performed on each tendon transfer in cadaver specimens. A paired t-test showed no significant difference in pullout strength when pilot hole size varied between 79 to 93% of the screw size for the 7 mm screw and 78 to 90% of the screw size for the 5 mm screw. Previous studies have found a critical value of tendon tension equaling 50 N with passive dorsiflexion of the foot. With an average value of approximately 170 N, the 7 mm screw provided three times the requisite strength. The 5 mm screw provided 1.5 times the requisite strength, but the transfer was technically more difficult.
23S rRNA point mutation associated with erythromycin resistance in Treponema denticola

Mechanisms and occurrence of macrolide resistance in the periodontal pathogen Treponema denticola have received little attention. In this study, erythromycin resistance due to mutations in the genes encoding T. denticola 23S rRNA was investigated. The T. denticola genome was shown to contain two copies of 23S rDNA. 23S rRNA genes of nine erythromycin-resistant isolates derived from T. denticola were amplified and sequences were analyzed. All the erythromycin-resistant strains had at least one A→G transition mutation at the 23S rRNA gene sequence cognate to position A2058 in Escherichia coli 23S rDNA. This suggests that antibiotic pressure is sufficient to select for point mutations that confer resistance in this organism.
Double-resonance stimulated Raman scattering from optically levitated glycerol droplets.

Experimental confirmation of stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) in micrometer-sized droplets supported simultaneously by resonances at the incident (input) laser wavelength and at the emitted (output) SRS wavelength is provided. Identified mode orders of contributing input resonances increase with droplet radii over the size range investigated (\ensuremath{\sim}5.4\char21{}7.4-\ensuremath{\mu}m radius). Measured SRS spectra reveal that the mode order of the input and output resonances coincide in 90% of the cases studied.
Issues concerning the technology transfer of geographic information systems

Many state and local agencies have begun to adopt computer technology as a means of upgrading existing mapping and related practices. These agencies are faced with the dualism of wanting modern technology within a traditional setting and demanding technological independence at the same time. This article is an account of the art of technology transfers, with discussions about the necessary ingredients and constraints in the identification, adaptation, absorption, implementation, diffusion, and evaluation of new technologies. In general, a systematic approach towards the strengthening of endogenous capabilities with sufficient provision for operational and policy changes may be preferable to the idea of comprehensive planning.
The impact of stigma, experience, and group referent on HIV risk assessments and HIV testing intentions in Namibia.

Abstract People often perceive risks for others and themselves differently. This study examines whether personal beliefs about HIV and experience with those living with HIV influence personal risk assessments of contracting HIV in an interview sample of northern Namibians ( N = 400 ), but not others’ assessments as explained by singular-distribution theory [Klar, Medding, & Sarel (1996). Nonunique invulnerability: Singular versus distributional probabilities and unrealistic optimism in comparative risk judgments. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 67, 229–245]. Findings indicate that personal risk perceptions decrease with more HIV stigmatizing beliefs and increase with greater experience, but that those characteristics had no impact on assessments for others’ risk. The study also examines whether the size and characteristics of the referent group, peers and the general Namibian population, influence others’ risk assessments. Optimistic biases for personal risk versus others’ risk appear with the highest discrepancy emerging between personal and general population risk assessments. Further, we found that personal risk perceptions did not mediate the relationship between personal characteristics, beliefs and experiences, and intentions to seek HIV testing.
Experimental evidence for beta-decay as a source of chirality by enantiomer analysis.

Earlier experiments testing the Vester-Ulbricht beta-decay hypothesis for the origin of molecular chirality are reviewed, followed by descriptions of experiments involving attempted asymmetric radiolysis of DL-amino acids using quantitative gas chromotography as a probe for optical activity. The radiation sources included Sr-90-Y-90, C-14, and P-32 Bremsstrahlen, longitudinally polarized electrons from a linear accelerator and longitudinally polarized protons from a cyclotron. With the possible exception of the linear accelerator irradiations, these experiments failed to produce g.c.-detectable enantiomeric excesses, even at 50-70 percent gross radiolysis. Thus no unambiguous support for the Vester-Ulbricht hypothesis is found in any of the attempted asymmetric radiolyses performed to date. Radioracemization, a possible reason for these failures, is discussed.
Saturable efflux of the peptides RC-160 and Tyr-MIF-1 by different parts of the blood-brain barrier

Peptides have been shown to be transported in the direction of both blood to brain and brain to blood. Although blood to brain transport is known to occur at both the choroid plexus and the capillary bed of the brain, comprising the two major components of the blood-brain barrier, the location of efflux systems for peptides remains largely unstudied. We adapted established methodologies to study this question for two peptides known to be transported out of the brain after injection into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): Tyr-MIF-1, transported by peptide transport system (PTS)-1 and RC-160, a somatostatin analog transported by PTS-5. Radioactive iodide, known to be transported out of the brain primarily by the capillaries, also was studied. We found that after injection into brain tissue, RC-160 and iodide were rapidly transported out of the brain by saturable mechanisms. By contrast, efflux of Tyr-MIF-1 was slow and nonsaturable after injection into brain tissue, but rapid and saturable after injection into the lateral ventricle of the brain. Autoradiography confirmed that peptide injected into brain tissue did not diffuse far from the site of injection during the study period. The results indicate that the efflux system for RC-160 is located at least partly at the capillaries and suggest that the major location for the efflux system of Tyr-MIF-1 is at the choroid plexus.
Free convection on a horizontal plate

Cette communication montre qu'une erreur de signe conduisitK. Stewartson (1) a une fausse conclusion en ce qui concerne les conditions d'existence des couches limites resultant de convection libre dans le cas d'une plaque plane horizontale. De plus, des systemes a vitesse transversale finie et possedant une temperature de surface non uniforme ont ete analyses, et les resultats pour le transfert de chaleur et de moment sont donnes.
Senile plaques in Alzheimer’s diseased brains: Possible association of β-amyloid with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) L-particles

Summary The characteristic insoluble, senile (neuritic) plaques found extracellularly in brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) contain the fibrillar form of β-amyloid (Aβ42). A substantial proportion of autopsied elderly brains have demonstrated DNA evidence of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infiltration. HSV-1-infected cells produce significant quantities of non-infectious, non-DNA-containing light particles (L-particles) comprised of viral envelope and tegument proteins. HSV-induced L-particles can be exocytosed out of their host cells. This report advances the hypothesis that (1) Aβ binds to L-particles; (2) Aβ permeabilizes L-particles, destroying the integrity of the envelope and allowing the contained tegument proteins to spill into the extracellular space; and (3) these events are followed by a conformational shift of Aβ into its fibrillar form, physically trapping the L-particle-derived substances and resulting in the plaques characteristic of AD. These hypotheses are supported by reports of biomolecular changes and pathophysiologies which have been simultaneously observed in both AD- and HSV-infected brains.
Weather changes and pain: perceived influence of local climate on pain complaint in chronic pain patients

Patients with chronic pain frequently report that changes in the weather influence their pain. This study investigated differences in the perceived influence of weather on pain among 558 chronic pain patients living in 4 cities (San Diego, California; Nashville, Tennessee; Worcester, Massachusetts; and Boston, Massachusetts) in the United States. Local climatologic data for each city were obtained from the National Climatic Data Center. All patients completed a weather questionnaire, and the information they provided was compared with demographic and weather variables. The majority of all patients believed that changes in the weather affected their pain. Pain patients who were younger and who had arthritis reported the most sensitivity to changes in weather. Weather sensitivity was unrelated to all other demographic variables and to geographic region. Cold and damp conditions were considered to influence pain the most. However, the perceived effect of weather on pain was not found to be related to regional climate. Thus, the belief that pain is worsened by living in a colder climate was not supported. An equilibrium theory of weather changes and pain is discussed. Further investigations are needed to identify the mechanisms involved in the effects of weather changes on pain.
Characterization of a Novel CLC-ec1 Inhibitor

CLC chloride channels and transporters are vital to many physiological processes. Defects in these proteins can lead to diseases that affect muscle, cardiovascular system, kidneys, and bones. Historically, high affinity inhibitors have played crucial roles in the characterization of ion transporter structure and function and in the treatment of disease. However, there is a dearth of known CLC inhibitors. To search for improved inhibitors, we synthesized derivatives of DIDS (4,4′-diisothio-cyanostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid), a small molecule that inhibits several CLC proteins with low affinity and specificity. We found that linking DIDS and octanoic acid generated a CLC-ec1 inhibitor (OADS) that inhibits CLC-ec1 with low micromolar affinity. We are characterizing the mechanism of inhibition using flux assays, electrophysiology, isothermal titration calorimetry, photoaffinity labeling, and mutagenesis. Given that OADS and OADS derivatives that inhibit ClC-ec1 are rather hydrophobic, we also explored their potential to alter lipid bilayer properties using a gramicidin based fluorescence assay.
A synchrotron study of the deposition of vanadia on TiO2(110)

The electronic structure of vanadia supported on TiO2(110) was investigated by means of low energy electron diffraction, Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, work-function and near edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS) measurements. Vanadia films in the submonolayer-to-multilayer coverage regime were deposited at 300 K by evaporation of metallic vanadium in an oxygen ambient. The vanadia films appear to grow in a two-dimensional fashion, without any long-range order, probably via a simultaneously multilayer growth mode. The photoemission data suggest the formation of a vanadium oxide with partially filled d-orbitals. The position and the line-shape of the vanadium L- and oxygen K-edges determined by NEXAFS indicate V2O3 formation; the titaniuim L-edge indicates only a weak electronic interaction of V2O3 with the surface of TiO2. V2O3 on TiO2 is stable up to a temperature of 1100 K, above this temperature the data indicate the formation of a ternary oxide at the interface and the simultaneous agglomeration of V2O3.
The Legalization of Internet Gambling: A Consumer Protection Perspective

The complexities of Internet gambling limit congressional efforts to regulate its growth. Therefore, legislative attempts to prohibit Internet gaming may undermine the protection mechanisms that we...
Quantitative Analysis of Errors in On-Wafer S-Parameter De-embedding Techniques for High Frequency Device Modeling

The de-embedding of intrinsic device parameters from on-wafer measurements is a central problem in high frequency device measurement and modeling. The first quantitative analysis of the errors associated with de-embedding on-wafer s-parameter measurements of 90nm bulk FETs and 130nm SiGe HBTs taking into account the effects of non-ideal standards is presented. Four different on-wafer deembedding techniques are examined. Electromagnetic (E-M) simulations accounting for these non-idealities are used to compare different methods. It is demonstrated that unwanted parasitics in standards can significantly affect parameters extracted using more complex de-embedding techniques. The most sensitive standard is identified and an optimized design is presented.
Coordination of information on residues of veterinary drugs in the European Community

Abstract This paper discusses the historical and present day situation to coordinate information on legislation and regulation of residues of veterinary drugs within the European Community (EC). Nowadays three separate Directorates (III, VI & XII) have important inputs and more than forty laboratories from the Member States are involved in the control of residues.
Optimal control of a low wing-loading STOL aircraft

Linear optimal quadratic control theory is applied to a low wing-loading STOL aircraft for ride quality and flight path following. Design criteria include minimum rms response to wind turbulence and desired transient response characteristics. Design techniques include proper choosing of design versus evaluation models, choosing appropriate performance index responses, and use of classical evaluation techniques. Results are obtained through a combination of frequency response shaping and gust observation. Effects of control rate and authority saturation are examined with a new rapid calculation of random input describing functions. Parameter sensitivity is also evaluated using a Liapunov type matrix equation.
In Vivo Effect of Wood Smoke on the Expression of Two Mucin Genes in Rat Airways

A short-term, time-dependent smoke exposure of rats in a nose-only chamber to burning wood and 24-h recovery time revealed inflammation of the airways with varying degrees of injury from loss of cilia, degeneration of epithelium, and squamous metaplasia to submucosal edema. These histological changes were reflected in variable expression of the secretory Muc5AC and low expression of membrane-associated Muc4 mucin genes. 20-min smoke exposure in extended recovery experiments showed marked disorder of tracheal epithelium for up to 72 h of recovery with a return to normal by 7 days. Gene expressions were elevated at 24 and 48 h of recovery. 30-min smoke exposure showed a more severe degeneration of the epithelium and a longer recovery time. Muc5AC expression decreased after 72 h of recovery, while there was upregulation of Muc4 gene from 48 through 96 h. Because Muc4 upregulation and histological results correlate and it has reportedly been associated with epithelium renewal, Muc4 gene may be a useful marker for the regeneration of tracheal epithelium.
Diurnal variations in residential woodburning pollution in Portland, Oregon

Abstract We demonstrate how air pollution from residential woodburning may vary over the day in suburban environments. The concentration of a unique gaseous tracer of low temperature combustion, methyl chloride (CH 3 Cl), is related to the mass of fine particles in the ambient air from woodburning stoves and fireplaces. Four ambient air samples per day were collected every 3 days during the winter of 1983–1984 at a residential site in southeast Portland, Oregon. An integrated sampling system was also used over the winter of 1984 in nearby Hillsboro, Oregon, to collect 4–8 hour samples over the day and determine the longer period averaged pollutant concentrations. The maximum averaged wintertime concentrations were found in the evenings as expected, with a few surprisingly high levels in the morning during the 6–10 a.m. period, usually associated with stagnant meteorological conditions.
Tidal Imprint of Distant Galactic Matter on the Oort Comet Cloud

We report the detection of a remarkably strong nonrandom signal in the distribution of perihelia vectors of Oort cloud comets. The strongest signal is in the Galactic longitudes of perihelia, and we show that it is most likely caused by the adiabatic perturbation of the Galactic radial tide. The probability that the signal in longitude is because of chance is found to be 2 × 10-6. There is also evidence of the adiabatic perturbation of the Galactic tide component which is in a direction normal to the midplane. This is found in the distribution of Galactic latitudes of perihelia but is statistically less significant, a somewhat counterintuitive result since the Galactic z tide has a strength ≈ 16 times that of the Galactic radial tide. We find that ≈ 1/3 of observed Oort cloud comets are attributable to the Galactic radial tide. The source of the Galactic z tide is primarily local disk matter, while the source of the Galactic radial tide is the entire distribution of matter interior to the solar orbit. Consequently, we conclude that distant matter in the Galaxy, down to the Galactic core some 1.6 × 109 AU away, is an important factor in making Oort cloud comets observable.
Measurement of gas permeability of polymers. I. Permeabilities in constant volume/variable pressure apparatus

A constant volume/variable pressure gas permeability apparatus is described that provides accurate determination of permeabilities ranging from less than 10−1 to 106 centibarrers. Metal construction, variable temperature control, adjustable downstream pressure and constant volume, and a differential pressure transducer with automatic recording are design features that permit detailed permeability studies under a variety of environmental conditions. Pressure effects on polymer films have been investigated up to 1000 psi, and the relation of gas concentration to permeability has been studied by varying the downstream pressure and volume conditions. The high feed pressures have significantly shortened the time required to obtain meaningful data on low-permeability materials after steady-state conditions are achieved, and the variable-temperature control has permitted evaluation of temperature-related phenomena.
Effects of Adverse Weather on Traffic Crashes: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Adverse weather obviously has an impact on vehicle crash rates on roads and highways. However, it would be valuable to quantify the extent to which weather conditions affect the crash rate. To do that, a meta-analysis has been conducted to generalize research findings on this subject and attempt to quantify the impact of weather on traffic crashes. Studies between 1967 and 2005 that examined the interaction of weather and traffic safety were reviewed. Thirty-four papers and 78 records that meet the predetermined criteria were included in the analysis. Crash rates from each study were normalized with respect to effect size for meta-analysis generalization. Results indicate that the crash rate usually increases during precipitation. Snow has a greater effect than rain does on crash occurrence: snow can increase the crash rate by 84% and the injury rate by 75%. Further results also suggest that variations in study results can be explained by study design, date of the study, and region or countries included i...
RED SHIFTS OF VERY YOUNG OBJECTS.

I WOULD like to call attention to one of the consequences of our current belief that there is a red-shift-distance relation for galaxies. It is accepted that as we observe increasingly distant galaxies we see them at earlier and earlier stages of their life history because of the finite velocity of light. If we could therefore observe sufficiently faint galaxies, we would see galaxies very close to their moment of creation, or even, conceptually, close to the moment of creation of the matter which would make up the galaxies. Empirically we find that the red-shifts of more distant galaxies increase and we must conclude with a high degree of certainty that, if we could see distant enough matter, it would be very young and have an extremely high red-shift. We can summarize this reasoning in the following statement: If we observe the universe near age zero, then it has a very large red-shift.
An Experimental System for Imaging the Reversible Adsorption of Amphiphiles at Aqueous−Liquid Crystal Interfaces

We report an experimental system that permits optical imaging of the reversible adsorption of amphiphiles at stable, planar interfaces formed between aqueous phases and immiscible thermotropic liquid crystals. Copper grids (hole sizes of 19−292 μm and thicknesses of 18−20 μm) supported on glass surfaces treated using octadecyltrichlorosilane were impregnated with nematic 4-cyano-4‘-pentylbiphenyl (5CB). Films of 5CB confined within the grids were stable (did not dewet the grid) to immersion into either water, aqueous solutions of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), or aqueous solutions of SDS containing NaCl. Whereas the anchoring of 5CB on the copper grid dominated the appearance of the 5CB when using grids with hole sizes of 19 μm, reversible changes in the orientation of the liquid crystal (observed using polarized light) caused by adsorption of SDS at the liquid crystal−aqueous interface were readily observed when using grids with hole sizes larger than 19 μm. With increasing concentrations of SDS in the aq...
Zopiclone overdose responsive to flumazenil.

To the Editor:Zopiclone facilitates GABA-A transmission in the central nervous system. Zopiclone's binding site appears to be distinct from that of the benzodiazepines but photoaffinity labeling an...
Inhibition of myogenin Expression by Activated Raf Is Not Responsible for the Block to Avian Myogenesis

Activated Raf is a potent inhibitor of skeletal muscle gene transcription and myocyte formation through stimulation of downstream MAPK. However, the molecular targets of elevated MAPK with regard to myogenic repression remain elusive. We examined the effects of activated Raf on myogenin gene expression in avian myoblasts. Overexpression of activated Raf in embryonic chick myoblasts prevented myogenin gene transcription and myocyte differentiation. Treatment with PD98059, an inhibitor of MAPK kinase (MEK), restored myogenin expression but did not reinstate the myogenic program. Using a panel of myogeninpromoter deletion mutants, we were unable to identify a region within the proximal 829-bp promoter that confers responsiveness to MEK. Interestingly, our experiments identified MEF2A as a target of Raf-mediated inhibition in mouse myoblasts but not in avian myogenic cells. Embryonic myoblasts overexpressing activated Raf were unable to drive transcription from a minimal myogenin promoter reporter, containing a single E-box and MEF2 site, to levels comparable with controls. Unlike mouse myoblasts, forced expression of MEF2A did not synergistically enhance transcription from the myogeninpromoter in chick myoblasts, indicating that additional molecular determinants of the block to myogenesis exist. Results of these experiments further exemplify specie differences in the mode of Raf-mediated inhibition of muscle differentiation.
The Mechanism of Diatom Locomotion. I. An Ultrastructural Study of the Motility Apparatus

Observations of raphe-associated cell structure of the diatom Navicula cuspidata suggest the involvement in cell locomotion of secretory vesicles, the locally specialized plasmalemma opposite the raphe, microfilamentous bundles and strands of mucilage in the raphe. It is proposed that diatoms are propelled by the flow of adhesive strands of mucilage that project from the raphe, powered and controlled by a membrane-associated microfilamentous system.
Sympathetic innervation of the rat cornea as demonstrated by the retrograde and anterograde transport of horseradish peroxidase-wheat germ agglutinin.

The sympathetic innervation of the rat cornea was studied by using the method of intraaxonal transport of horseradish peroxidase–wheat germ agglutinin conjugate (HRP-WGA). In the first set of experiments, the relative number of superior cervical ganglion neurons that innervate the rat central cornea was estimated by the method of retrograde HRP-WGA transport. Following tracer application to the scarified central corneal surface, 49–198 labeled neurons were observed in the ophthalmic region of the ipsilateral trigeminal ganglion and zero to four cells in the rostral pole of the ipsilateral superior cervical ganglion. In the second set of experiments, the three-dimensional distribution and termination sites of the corneal sympathetic nerve fibers were investigated by the technique of HRP-WGA anterograde transport from the superior cervical ganglion. HRP-WGA-labeled axons in corneal whole mounts were identified by the presence within their axoplasm of linear arrays of HRP-TMB reaction product, and their distribution was plotted faithfully onto line drawings made with a drawing tube attachment. Large numbers of HRP-labeled fibers were found in all animals within the corneoscleral limbus where the majority were associated with blood vessels. Fewer fibers (zero to 14 per animal) entered the cornea proper. The latter fibers entered the peripheral cornea in the deep to middle layers of the stroma and ascended into progressively more superficial layers as they coursed centrally. The majority of fibers branched infrequently in the peripheral cornea and increased in branching complexity near the central cornea. HRP-labeled axonal varicosities suggestive of terminal and preterminal expansions were located preferentially in the subepithelial layer of the corneal stroma and in the basal epithelium. Approximately 75% of the axonal varicosities were located in the central half of the cornea. The results of the current investigation reveal that the rat cornea is innervated sparsely by sympathetic nerve fibers derived from the superior cervical ganglion. These data provide additional support to current theories that corneal sympathetic nerve fibers may influence select aspects of corneal physiology, including ion transport and hydration, mitogenesis and wound healing, and sensitivity.
The role of thermal vapor diffusion in the subsurface hydrologic evolution of Mars

The hydrologic response of groundwater to the thermal evolution of the early martian crust is considered. When a temperature gradient is present in a moist porous medium, it gives rise to a vapor-pressure gradient that drives the diffusion of water vapor from regions of high to low temperature. By this process, a geothermal gradient as small as 15 K/km could drive the vertical transport of 1 km of water to the freezing front at the base of the martian crysophere every 10 exp 6-10 exp 7 years, or the equivalent of about 100-1000 km of water over the course of martian geologic history. Models of the thermal history of Mars suggest that this thermally-driven vapor flux may have been as much as 3-5 times greater in the past. The magnitude of this transport suggests that the process of geothermally-induced vapor diffusion may have played a critical role in the initial emplacement of ground ice and the subsequent geomorphic and geochemical evolution of the martian crust.
A comparison of methods for forecasting wave generation

Abstract Wave heights and periods in the generating areas of an unusually severe storm and its forerunner were hindcast by three different methods and compared with observations. Wave height agreement was good for all methods. Period agreement was poor; however, all reported periods fell within the spectral range determined by the Pierson-Neuman-James method. The description of a sea in terms of its spectrum is indicated.
Focus wave modes in homogeneous Maxwell's equations - TE-MODE

Mathematical formulations are presented for TE-mode, three-dimensional, solitary electromagnetic pulses propagating in free space. The pulses are required to satisfy the homogeneous Maxwell's equations, have a three-dimensional pulse structure, have no charge, move at light velocity in straight lines, have nondispersive pulses for all time, and have finite electromagnetic energy. (LEW)
Ion Channels and Zinc: Mechanisms of Neurotoxicity and Neurodegeneration

Ionotropic glutamate receptors, such as NMDA, AMPA and kainate receptors, are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate much of the excitatory neurotransmission in the brain. Not only do these receptors bind glutamate, but they are also regulated by and facilitate the postsynaptic uptake of the trace metal zinc. This paper discusses the role of the excitotoxic influx and accumulation of zinc, the mechanisms responsible for its cytotoxicity, and a number of disorders of the central nervous system that have been linked to these neuronal ion channels and zinc toxicity including ischemic brain injury, traumatic brain injury, and epilepsy.
Synthesis of RNA containing polyadenylic acid sequences in preimplantation rabbit embryos

Abstract Messenger RNA synthesis has been estimated by assaying polyadenylic acid (poly A)-rich sequences in heterogeneous RNA from preimplantation rabbit embryos. Poly A containing RNAs are synthesized at least as early as the 16-cell stage and continue to be made through blastocyst formation and maturation. Sixty to 78% of the heterogeneous polysomal RNA in blastocysts contain poly A sequences. The portion of the heterogeneous RNA containing poly A sequences does not appear to change markedly between cleavage and blastocyst stages of development. Poly Arich sequences are greater than 4 S and consist of at least 84% adenine residues. RNA molecules ranging from 6 S to greater than 28 S contain poly A sequences.
Budgeting in a not-for-profit setting: A fund-raising simulation with multiple objectives

Abstract This case is designed to introduce basic managerial and budgeting concepts in the context of a not-for-profit entity. The case is a one-page scenario which places the students in a simulated role of planners for a community event. They must seek funding for the event from the Board of Directors of a local philanthropic organization. The paper discusses options to assist faculty in using the case in a variety of settings. A teaching note includes a description of a simulated classroom setting and provides suggested questions for classroom use. Variations of the case can be used in classes at introductory and advanced levels. It is well suited for adult learners and courses designed for non-financial managers/executives.
Physical constitution of ribosomal genes in common strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Several recent investigations, employing restriction endonucleases that do not cleave within rDNA units, revealed that a number of laboratory strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae apparently contains a single tandem array of approximately 50 to 200 rDNA units on each chromosome XII homolog. The number of these rDNA units varies from strain to strain, among subclones of the same strain, and after different conditions of growth. In contrast, the commonly-used strain S288C and its derivatives contain two clusters on each chromosome XII homolog. Although the two clusters are stably maintained, the number of rDNA units within each cluster can vary as in strains with single clusters.
Aortic Graft Infection

An 80-year-old man with a history of open infrarenal aortoiliac graft repair for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm eight years prior, presented with fever, chills and weakness. He was febrile to 102 °F. Physical examination was unremarkable. Leukocytosis with bandemia was present on admission, and blood cultures grew pansensitive Escherichia coli. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) revealed intense fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake and wall thickening with stranding in the infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (Figs. 1 and ​and2),2), consistent with infectious aortitis. Figure 1 Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging revealing intense uptake in the infrarenal aorta. Figure 2 Computed tomography of the abdomen with significant wall thickening and associated stranding corresponding to the area of intake on PET study. The combined findings on PET-CT imaging are indicative of infectious aortitis. Aortic graft infection is uncommon and is usually an early complication secondary to bacterial contamination during surgery; late infection is especially rare,1 due to either bacteremia or mechanical erosion of the graft into surrounding tissues.2 Associated morbidity and mortality is high.3 Preliminary studies suggest that PET-CT may be more accurate than CT alone for diagnosis of aortic graft infection.4,5 Treatment involves selective graft preservation with early flap coverage in combination with debridement and antibiotics.6 Our patient was deemed a poor surgical candidate, but responded well to a course of intravenous antibiotics, followed by lifelong oral antibiotic suppressive therapy. He has since remained without evidence of recurrent infection.
Southeastern Power & Light System Interesting Features of Development and Operation

The rapid growth of the Southeastern Power & Light system is noted. The long forecast of system load which has been made together with some other features of development are presented briefly. A short discussion of the routine of operating methods and importance of load dispatching together with interesting features of a new steam unit of 60,000-kw. capacity, and interesting features of design for a hydro plant at Jordan Dam rapidly nearing completion are included.
An Empirical Intrinsic Chemical Kinetic Model For The Carbon-Carbon Composite Pyrolysis Process

Lightweight, high mechanical strength matrix-carbon fibre reinforced composites are manufactured from phenol-formaldehyde matrix/carbon fibre composites by the pyrolysis process. Phenol-formaldehyde matrix/carbon fibre composites are heated in an inert gas environment to high temperatures, for example, up to 800°C in the so-called first carbonization process. Evolution of gaseous species in a relatively thick composite, during the transient heating period, leads to internal pressure build-up, resulting in the composite delamination. The composite delamination depends on the rate of thermal energy flux into the composite material, production of gaseous species via intrinsic chemical kinetics, and transport of the produced gases to the composite environment through its porous structure. A refined transient process model, incorporating the effects of intrinsic chemical kinetics and transport phenomena of heat and mass, still needs to be developed to predict/control the carbonization process to avoid delamination of a composite of thickness greater than 0.001 m. To this end, the overall intrinsic chemical kinetic model being presented here was developed using the experimental data, free of mass and heat transfer effects, on the pyrolysis of a phenol-formaldehyde resin [1]. Insight gained from the thermogravimetric data analyses [2-5] on thermal degradation of polymeric materials was helpful in the chemical kinetic model development. The molecular structure of the matrix changes, with simultaneous evolution of water vapour, methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, etc. via intrinsic chemical reactions, during the pyrolysis process employed to manufacture a carbon-carbon composite from a phenol-formaldehyde resin [1, 6-9]. Based on this information, it is reasonable to consider that the activation energy of the intrinsic overall pyrolysis reaction is a function of the composite material temperature. The overall pyrolysis reaction rate with the assumed first-order is given in terms of the rate of change of the reaction extent, ~, as:
The release of oligonucleotides by theEscherichia coli B restriction endonuclease

Abstract TheEscherichia coli B (Eco B) restriction endonuclease releases approximately 75 nucleotides as acid-soluble oligonucleotides for each single-strand endonucleolytic scission that it catalyzes. This reaction, like the endonucleolytic cleavage, requires ATP, Mg++, S-adenosylmethionine, and unmodified DNA containing appropriate specificity sites. Like the endonuclease reaction, the release of oligonucleotides terminates after roughly 5 minutes. The acid-soluble oligonucleotides have an average chain length of roughly 7, and an apparently random base composition.