cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of dietary fiber and physical form on performance of lactating dairy cows.

Abstract Two trials were conducted to study the effects of forage intake and physical form on lactating cow performance. In trial 1, four cows in a 4×4 Latin square were fed long alfalfa hay at 28, 36, 45, and 53% of total dry matter plus concentrate. Total dry matter intake was not affected by forage percent. Total chewing time and milk fat percentage increased linearly with increasing forage consumption. Maximum 4% fat-corrected milk production occurred when diets contained 27% neutral detergent fiber and 18% acid detergent fiber. In trial 2, four cows in a 4×4 Latin square were fed diets of chopped alfalfa hay and concentrate in proportions to supply 27.4% total ration neutral detergent fiber. Mean particle length measured with an oscillating screen particle separator of the chopped hay was .26, .46, .64, and .90cm. Total dry matter and forage dry matter intakes and total chewing were not influenced by forage mean particle length. Mean particle length did not affect actual milk or 4% fat-corrected milk production. Depression of milk fat percentage was prevented when forage mean particle length was ≥.64cm. Apparent digestibility of dietary constituents and rate of passage of hay and concentrate was not influenced by forage intake or physical form.
An algorithm to compute the cdf of the product of two normal random variables

This paper provides a fortran algorithm that can be used to compute the cdf of the product of two normal distribution random variables. We also give references that provide mathematical properties, tables, and applications of this distribution
Analysis of four aberrometers for evaluating lower and higher order aberrations.

Purpose To compare the measurements of lower and higher order aberrations (HOA) of 4 commonly used aberrometers. Setting Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Boston, USA. Design Prospective, cross-sectional study, in a controlled, single-blinded fashion. Methods Multiple readings were obtained in 42 eyes of 21 healthy volunteers, at a single visit, with each of the following aberrometers: Alcon LADARWave®, Visx WaveScan®, B & L Zywave®, and Wavelight Allegro Analyzer®. Results were compared and analyzed in regards to the lower and HOA, to the different wavefront sensing devices and software, Tscherning and Hartmann–Shack and between the Fourier and Zernike algorithms. Statistical analysis included Bland-Altman plots, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), multiple comparison tests with Analysis of Variance and Kruskal-Wallis. Significant level was set to p<0.05 and alpha level correction was adjusted under the Bonferroni criteria. Results Most measurements of all 4 aberrometers were comparable. However, statistically significant differences were found between the aberrometers in total HOA (tHOA), spherical aberration (SA), horizontal coma and astigmatism (2,2). LADARwave and Wavescan showed significant differences in tHOA (P<0.001, ICC = 0.549, LoA = 0.19±0.5) and in SA (P<0.001, ICC = 0.733, LoA = 0.16±0.37). Wavescan showed a significant difference compared to Zywave (p<0.001, ICC = 0.920, LoA = 0.09±0.13) in SA. Comparisons between Allegro Analyzer and Zywave demonstrated significant differences in both Horizontal Coma (3,1) (p<0.001, ICC = −0.207, LoA = −0.15±0.48) and Astigmatism (2,2) (P = 0.003, ICC = −0.965, LoA = 0.2±2.5). Allegro Analyzer also differed from Wavescan in Horizontal Coma (3,1) (P<0.001, ICC = 0.725, LoA = −0.07±0.25). Conclusions Although some measurements were comparable predominately in the lower order aberrations, significant differences were found in the tHOA, SA, horizontal coma and astigmatism. Our analysis suggests that sensor design contributes to agreement in lower order aberrations, and Fourier and Zernike expansion might disagree in higher order aberrations. Therefore, comparison between aberrometers was generally possible with some exceptions in higher order measurements.
The Infected Knee: All My Troubles Now

Infection after total knee arthroplasty poses formidable challenges to the surgeon. Once an infection is diagnosed, the identification of the organism and its sensitivity to antibiotics is essential. The host's healing capacity is vital. Supplemental nutrition and cessation of smoking can improve wound healing. Surgical goals include debridement of necrotic tissue and elimination of the dead space. Intravenous antibiotics and a 2-stage protocol are the standard of care. At our institution, the first stage is performed with an implant and antibiotic-cement composite. This articulating spacer maintains limb length and tissue compliance. The patient can maintain a functional status between stages. Definitive reconstruction is more readily accomplished with this method in contrast to the static spacer approach. The clinical efficacy of this protocol has been well documented in the literature.
ASYMPTOTIC BEHAVIOR FOR TWO REGULARIZATIONS OF THE CAUCHY PROBLEM FOR THE BACKWARD HEAT EQUATION

One method of regularizing the initial value problem for the backward heat equation involves replacing the equation by a singularly perturbed hyperbolic equation which is equivalent to a damped wave equation with negative damping. Another regularization of this problem is obtained by perturbing the initial condition rather than the differential equation. For both of these problems, we investigate the asymptotic behavior of the solutions as the distance from the finite end of a semi-infinite cylinder tends to infinity and thus establish spatial decay results of the Saint-Venant type.
Performance analysis of the simultaneous optical multi-processor exchange bus

Abstract The performance of a multi-computer system based on the simultaneous optical multi-processor exchange bus (SOME-Bus) interconnection network is examined using queuing network models under the message-passing and distributed-shared-memory (DSM) paradigms. The SOME-Bus is a low latency, high bandwidth, fiber-optic interconnection network which directly links arbitrary pairs of processor nodes without contention. It contains a dedicated channel for the data output of each node, eliminating the need for global arbitration and providing bandwidth that scales directly with the number of nodes in the system. Each of N nodes has an array of receivers, with one receiver dedicated to each node output channel. No node is ever blocked from transmitting by another transmitter or due to contention for shared switching logic. The entire N -receiver array can be integrated on a single chip at a comparatively minor cost resulting in O( N ) complexity. By supporting multiple simultaneous broadcasts of messages, the SOME-Bus has much more functionality than a crossbar, allowing synchronization phases and cache consistency protocols to complete much faster. Simulation results are presented which validate the theoretical results and compare processor utilization in the SOME-Bus, the crossbar and the torus, with and without synchronization. Compared to these two networks, the SOME-Bus performance is least affected by large message communication times. Even in the presence of frequent synchronization, processor utilization remains practically unaffected while it drops in the other architectures. Although it has a larger number of channels compared to the crossbar and the mesh, the SOME-Bus is much simpler and inexpensive because it is free of complex routing, congestion and blocking.
Nucleation mechanism of the eutectic phases in aluminum–silicon hypoeutectic alloys

Abstract A theory is presented to explain the mechanism of formation of the eutectic phases in Al–Si hypoeutectic alloys. Results include optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, as well as selected area electron diffraction analysis and elemental X-ray mapping performed on Al–Si hypoeutectic alloy samples. The alloy samples had precisely controlled chemistry and were solidified at various cooling rates. The data presented support the proposed theory with microstructural and crystallographic evidence.
Efficiency in Service Delivery: Technological or Humanistic Approaches?

Explains that efficient service delivery can often present a problem for marketers due to the nature of the services. Summarizes the two general methods already suggested for improving the efficiency of service delivery – technological and humanistic. Discusses managerial guidelines for the implementation of these approaches to service delivery in several service industries, based on two service classification schemes.
The optical and electrical properties of mitochondrial preparations

Abstract It has been shown that electron-acceptor quinones can complex to proteins, decreasing their electrical resistivity and semiconductive activation energy. Such complex proteins are suitable for energy transport in biological systems by a semiconduction mechanism. Coenzyme Q10 is known to be involved in oxidative phosphorylation reactions in association with the cytochrome system. The semiconductive and optical properties of a cytochrome c-coenzyme Q10 complex have indicated a possible mechanism for such reactions and an investigation of this complex in a mitochondrial lipid medium and complete mitochondria has provided evidence for the possible role of a semiconductive mechanism in mitochondrial energy transport.
Optimization of Time Resolved Phosphorimetry

Time resolution, in spite of its enormous potential for minimizing spectral interferences in analytical phosphorimetry, has never achieved the widespread application that one might expect. One reason has been the inefficient trial-and-error optimization of the pulsed source gated detection phosphorimeter for a given analysis. In this paper, this problem is addressed by deriving expressions which relate the observed phosphorescence intensity to the temporal characteristics of the experimental system, and using these expressions to ascertain how the individual adjustable parameters, coupled with the analyte lifetime(s), affect the observed intensity. The predicted effects are verified by comparison with experimental results obtained on several phosphors of widely different lifetimes, using a pulsed laser boxcar averager phosphorimeter.
An Analysis of the 1877–78 ENSO Episode and Comparison with 1982–83

Abstract A comparison of the 1877–78 and 1982–83 El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events was made using monthly and seasonal values of sea surface temperature (SST) and station pressure in the tropics, sea level pressure (SLP) in North America and the North Atlantic, temperature in North America and precipitation in several key areas around the globe. SST anomalies in the eastern tropical Pacific, heavy rains in coastal Peru and extreme pressure anomalies across the Pacific and Indian Oceans during 1877–78 indicate an ENSO event of comparable magnitude to that during 1982–83. Both events were also associated with drought conditions in the Indonesian region, India, South Africa, northeastern Brazil and Hawaii. Wintertime teleconnections in the midlatitudes of the Northern Hemisphere were similar in terms of SLP from the North Pacific to Europe, resulting in significantly higher than normal temperatures over most of the United States and extreme rains in California.
Poisson−Boltzmann versus Size-Modified Poisson−Boltzmann Electrostatics Applied to Lipid Bilayers

Mean-field methods, such as the Poisson-Boltzmann equation (PBE), are often used to calculate the electrostatic properties of molecular systems. In the past two decades, an enhancement of the PBE, the size-modified Poisson-Boltzmann equation (SMPBE), has been reported. Here, the PBE and the SMPBE are reevaluated for realistic molecular systems, namely, lipid bilayers, under eight different sets of input parameters. The SMPBE appears to reproduce the molecular dynamics simulation results better than the PBE only under specific parameter sets, but in general, it performs no better than the Stern layer correction of the PBE. These results emphasize the need for careful discussions of the accuracy of mean-field calculations on realistic systems with respect to the choice of parameters and call for reconsideration of the cost-efficiency and the significance of the current SMPBE formulation.
Sticking our neck out: is magnetic resonance imaging needed to clear an obtunded patient's cervical spine?

Abstract Background Evaluating the cervical spine in the obtunded trauma patient is a subject fraught with controversy. Some authors assert that a negative computed tomography (CT) scan is sufficient. Others argue that CT alone misses occult unstable injuries, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will alter treatment. This study examines the data in an urban, county trauma center to determine if a negative cervical spine CT scan is sufficient to clear the obtunded trauma patient. Methods Records of all consecutive patients admitted to a level 1 trauma center from January 2000 to December 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients directly admitted to the intensive care unit with a Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤13, contemporaneous CT and MRI, and a negative CT reading were included. The results of the cervical spine MRI were analyzed. Results A total of 309 patients had both CT and MRI, 107 (35%) of whom had negative CTs. Mean time between CT and MRI was 16 d. Of those patients, seven (7%) had positive acute traumatic findings on MRI. Findings included ligamentous injury, subluxation, and fracture. However, only two of these patients required surgical intervention. None had unstable injuries. Conclusions In the obtunded trauma patient with a negative cervical spine CT, obtaining an MRI does not appear to significantly alter management, and no unstable injuries were missed on CT scan. This should be taken into consideration given the current efforts at cost-containment in the health care system. It is one of the larger studies published to date.
Association of cyclosporin A with acquired cystic kidney disease of the native kidneys in renal transplant recipient

Association of cyclosporin A with acquired cystic kidney disease of the native kidneys in renal transplant recipients. Acquired cystic kidney disease (ACKD) is a common complication in patients treated with long-term dialysis. Previous studies performed prior to the cyclosporin A (CsA) era indicate that successful renal transplantation causes regression of ACKD. Little has been published, however, on the occurrence of ACKD in CsA-treated transplant recipients. We conducted a prospective sonographic study in 33 renal transplant recipients and 32 dialysis patients to evaluate the effect of CsA on ACKD in transplant recipients. Transplant recipients had a lower prevalence (39% vs. 56% in dialysis patients) and severity (smaller kidneys and lower cyst grades) of ACKD when compared with dialysis patients. Renal cell carcinoma was found in two dialysis patients. Using multiple regression analysis, we found that the use of CsA was significantly correlated with the presence of ACKD in transplant recipients (57% in CsA-treated vs. 8% in non-CsA-treated patients). We conclude that renal transplantation reduces the prevalence and severity of ACKD in the native kidneys; however, among transplant patients, CsA administration is associated with a greater prevalence of ACKD.
Monitoring of denitrification by Pseudomonas aeruginosa using on-line fluorescence technique

The NAD(P)H fluorescence ofPseudomonas aeruginosa dropped sharply upon addition of nitrate to an anaerobic culture, indicating that denitrification is not limited by mass transfer of nitrate through cell membrane to reach nitrate reductase. The effect of added nitrate concentration on fluorescence drop followed a typical saturation kinetics. The maximum specific denitrification rate under the studied condition was found to be 0.26±0.05 g NO 3 − -N/g cells-hr.
Absolute determination of zero-energy eigenphase shifts: Applications to n − p , n − d , and p − d scattering

A generalization of Levinson's theorem, relating the phase shift at zero energy to the number of bound states of the system, previously formulated to apply to the single-channel multiparticle scattering of a particle by a neutral system [L. Rosenberg and L. Spruch, Phys. Rev. A 54, 4978 (1996)] is further generalized to allow for multichannel scattering. An application to neutron-proton scattering with tensor forces leads to an extension of the existing version of Levinson's theorem for this system by providing information on each of the eigenphases at zero energy rather than just their sum. The effect of the Pauli principle on the absolute determination of the phase shift is illustrated with applications of the method to the scattering of neutrons and protons by deuterons.
Study and discussion on the problems of Shaft Voltage and Bearing Current in Wind Power Generation System

In the modern wind power generation system, because of the large number of the high frequency power electronic devices, it brings the bearing current problems to the entire system, affecting the safe operation of the system and the life of generator bearing and other mechanical parts seriously. Precise analysis of distributed capacitance parameter is very important to predict shaft voltage and bearing current accurately. The chapter analyses common mode model of whole wind power generation system firstly. With study of the inner structure of the Wind turbines, the analytic calculation formula of distributed capacitances in the Wind turbines is put forward. Finite element method is also recommended. Based on the above analysis, formation mechanism and influence on bearing current of wind power generation system is determined.
The community substance use environment: The development and predictive ability of a multi-method and multiple-reporter measure

This study tested the feasibility and utility of developing a multiple-method and multiple-reporter measure that describes the community substance use environment. Data on community-level norms and availability of substances were reported by 5,261 students and 181 prevention-focused community leaders involved in the 28 PROSPER Project communities between 2002–2005. Additionally, locations of alcohol and tobacco outlets were geocoded. Initially, these four subscales were aggregated to measure the community substance use environment. Analyses demonstrated this measure was associated with community rates of adolescent reported cigarette use, but it was not associated with community rates of adolescent reported alcohol use. Further analyses tested the relative strength of the four different subscales in predicting rates of student use. Implications of these results for the field of community-based prevention are discussed, as well as limitations and future directions.
Neurobiology and the Homunculus Thesis

L'A. etudie les problemes epistemologiques que la these de l'homunculus (HT) souleve et resout dans le domaine de la cognition. D'un point de vue neurobiologique, l'A. examine la question de l'integration de l'information perceptuelle dans le cerveau, se demandant si un nouveau modele de type neuroscientifique reintroduit la these de l'homunculus pour expliquer les processus de la conscience de soi
Comparison of contrast-to-noise ratios for Bayesian processing and grids in digital chest radiography

Previously, we have demonstrated the ability of Bayesian image estimation (BIE) to reduce scatter and improve image contrast to noise ratio (CNR) in chest radiography without degradation of resolution. Here, we compare the effectiveness of BIE to a standard 12:1 grid. Images of a geometric phantom with two inches of added polystyrene were obtained both with and without a 12:1, 150 lp/mm grid. Images were acquired with standard protocols: 120 kVp, 72 inch source to image distance, and PA positioning. Images were acquired on a calibrated photostimulable phosphor system. An image exposure was used corresponding to the same patient dose as when acquiring film/screen chest images using a phototimer. The image acquired without the grid was processed by BIE for 6 iterations. Contrast, noise, and CNR were calculated and compared for the image acquired with the grid and the BIE processed image in different regions. BIE processing improved image CNR by 200 to 350% over that provided by the anti-scatter grid for the different regions. BIE provides higher CNR than that of a 12:1 grid. Because of this increase in CNR, Bayesian processed images will show an increase in detectability of low contrast objects, such as subtle lung nodules.
The natural history of the space shuttle

Abstract The proximate causes of the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger were thoroughly investigated by the national commission headed by William Rogers. But a more fundamental understanding of the serious institutional difficulties in which the U.S. space program currently finds itself requires an examination of the shuttle program from a larger perspective. This paper examines the origins of the program and traces later decisions made to reinforce the shuttle's primacy. The view that emerges is of attempts to shore up a bad policy decision with expedients. Implications for future decisions involving high technology projects are discussed.
Control of large-scale systems in a multiprocessor environment

In this paper, a new approach is proposed for designing robust controllers for large-scale systems. The method utilizes linear matrix inequalities (LMI) to produce control structures that are suitable for a multiprocessor environment. It is shown that appropriate gain matrices can be obtained with only a modest computational effort, and that the interprocessor communication can be minimized.
A study of blood pressure among Negro schoolchildren

Abstract A study has been made of the blood pressures of 277 Negro children (153 girls and 124 boys) in the 10th grade of a Baltimore high school. A modified sphygmomanometer was used, designed to remedy the more serious problems of observer bias. The resulting distribution curves corresponded closely to a log normal form, there being no suggestion of bimodality. Mean pressures were low by comparison with published data on white children; they were essentially the same in those who gave a positive family history of hypertension as in those who did not.
Generating random numbers in the field

A pseudo-random number generator which is easy to remember and uses the very simple sequences 321 and 123 can be readily implemented on any available hand calculator. The generator is given by the recursive relation: Ri=321 × Ri−1+123, and is initiated using any 5-digit number for Ri−1 and saving the rightmost 5 digits of Ri for the next Ri−1;the two leftmost digits of Ri then yield an acceptable random number between 00 and 99. Alternately, a much better generator is given which can be jotted down in a notebook or taped to the back of your calculator.
Work value orientations and patterns: A comparison of future managers with manager and non-manager groups

This study uses the Values for Working questionnaire to classify the primary value systems and value patterns of 501 senior business school students (future managers). The students' scores on six value systems measured by the questionnaire are compared to national data on blue collar and clerical workers and on managerial and professional workers. The business students scored in the average range for four of the six value systems when compared to the manager group, but for only one of the value systems when compared to the non-manager group. Of the business students who had a primary value system, 82 percent wereexistential ormanipulative. There were significant differences in the value systems scores by sex but not by business major.
General design approach of monopole and helix integrated antennas for radio apparatus

A design approach of multiband and wideband antennas for radio communication devices is presented. The antenna is consisted of a monopole, a folded loop, and a helix. The fundamental behaviors of the single element and their combinations are analyzed to give desired bandwidths per the mutual coupling between elements. The ground plane dimension and the device thickness are considered. The study has a focus on the UHF and lower microwave range to support most of civilian applications. The presented antenna structure is a good starting point to be familiar with the multiband antenna design as the antenna can be configured to cover a wide frequency range to support cellular telephony, GPS, wireless local networking on so forth. A radio communications device incorporating such antennas is also described. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 57:1718–1723, 2015
Petri net-based scheduling of construction projects

Scheduling of construction projects is an important planning function that provides a clear picture of the construction activities, construction sequence, and construction resources to the agencies involved in construction. In this paper a Petri Net-based scheduling method that is geared towards resource-based scheduling of construction projects is described. Petri Nets are graphical and mathematical modeling tools that can be used to perform static and dynamic analysis of systems. Under the proposed technique Generalized Stochastic Petri Net (GSPN) modeling elements are used to develop a construction schedule. Resources required to accomplish construction work tasks are explicitly identified and allocated to the corresponding work tasks. In addition the technique provides hierarchical features that allow top–down breakdown of a construction project and modular features to schedule repetitive units. The paper summarizes the steps required to perform scheduling of construction projects using the proposed t...
Activated channel conductivity in silicon inversion layers at high temperatures

Abstract The effects of a reverse substrate bias on the resistivity of silicon inversion layers has been studied at low carrier densities for 4.2 ≲ T ≲ 77 K. At low temperatures the activation is small and decreases when a reverse substrate bias is applied. For T ≳ 10–20 K the activation energy increases [assuming ρ ∞ ρ 0 exp(+ Δ / kT )] and the effect of substrate bias is more complex. The activation energy increases for p-channels and decreases for n-channels when substrate bias is applied.
Cerebral excitation profiles in language processing: the photic probe paradigm.

Abstract A photic probe paradigm was developed in order to assess the cerebral excitation patterns corresponding to acoustic and linguistic operations independently of specific signal parameters. Average Evoked Potentials (AEPs) to a photic stimulus were recorded at the anterior temporal and posterior regions of both hemispheres of subjects engaged in acoustic, phonetic, and semantic processing of verbal material. Patterns of attenuation and enhancement of the probe AEP amplitudes were observed over the left and right hemispheres, respectively, with the magnitude of change varying reliably as a function of processing task. The implications of these findings for models of cerebral specialization for language are discussed.
Proteogenomic monitoring of Geobacter physiology during stimulated uranium bioremediation

Implementation of uranium bioremediation requires methods for monitoring the membership and activities of the subsurface microbial communities that are responsible for reduction of soluble U(VI) to insoluble U(IV). Here, we report a proteomics-based approach for simultaneously documenting the strain membership and microbial physiology of the dominant Geobacter community members during in situ acetate amendment of the U-contaminated Rifle, CO, aquifer. Three planktonic Geobacter-dominated samples were obtained from two wells down-gradient of acetate addition. Over 2,500 proteins from each of these samples were identified by matching liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry spectra to peptides predicted from seven isolate Geobacter genomes. Genome-specific peptides indicate early proliferation of multiple M21 and Geobacter bemidjiensis-like strains and later possible emergence of M21 and G. bemidjiensis-like strains more closely related to Geobacter lovleyi. Throughout biostimulation, the proteome is dominated by enzymes that convert acetate to acetyl-coenzyme A and pyruvate for central metabolism, while abundant peptides matching tricarboxylic acid cycle proteins and ATP synthase subunits were also detected, indicating the importance of energy generation during the period of rapid growth following the start of biostimulation. Evolving Geobacter strain composition may be linked to changes in protein abundance over the course of biostimulation and may reflect changes in metabolic functioning. Thus, metagenomics-independent community proteogenomics can be used to diagnose the status of the subsurface consortia upon which remediation biotechnology relies.
Albendazole sensitizes cancer cells to ionizing radiation

Brain metastases afflict approximately half of patients with metastatic melanoma (MM) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and represent the direct cause of death in 60 to 70% of those affected. Standard of care remains ineffective in both types of cancer with the challenge of overcoming the blood brain barrier (BBB) exacerbating the clinical problem. Our purpose is to determine and characterize the potential of albendazole (ABZ) as a cytotoxic and radiosensitizing agent against MM and SCLC cells. Here, ABZ's mechanism of action as a DNA damaging and microtubule disrupting agent is assessed through analysis of histone H2AX phosphorylation and cell cyle progression. The cytotoxicity of ABZ alone and in combination with radiation therapy is determined though clonogenic cell survival assays in a panel of MM and SCLC cell lines. We further establish ABZ's ability to act synergistically as a radio-sensitizer through combination index calculations and apoptotic measurements of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. ABZ induces DNA damage as measured by increased H2AX phosphorylation. ABZ inhibits the growth of MM and SCLC at clinically achievable plasma concentrations. At these concentrations, ABZ arrests MM and SCLC cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle after 12 hours of treatment. Exploiting the notion that cells in the G2/M phase are the most sensitive to radiation therapy, we show that treatment of MM and SCLC cells treated with ABZ renders them more sensitive to radiation in a synergistic fashion. Additionally, MM and SCLC cells co-treated with ABZ and radiation exhibit increased apoptosis at 72 hours. Our study suggests that the orally available antihelminthic ABZ acts as a potent radiosensitizer in MM and SCLC cell lines. Further evaluation of ABZ in combination with radiation as a potential treatment for MM and SCLC brain metastases is warranted.
Operation Iraqi Freedom strategic communication analysis and assessment

In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Joint Campaign Plan describing purpose and objectives was revised in mid-2007 and designated strategic communication as an important enabler of operations. A flexible and responsive methodological approach was needed to monitor, measure, analyze, and assess strategic communication to ensure desired effects were being achieved. This article details the real-world application of strategic communication analysis by the Multi-National Force — Iraq (MNF—I) Communication Division to support MNF—I and United States Mission — Iraq (USM—I) senior leadership situational awareness and decision making. The seven critical methods used included an understanding of the Iraqi and Pan-Arab media; media penetration of key themes; alignment of key messages; understanding Iraqi perceptions; prevalence of misinformation and disinformation in media stories; resonance of press conferences and key themes and messages; and effect of embedded reporters. The goal was to assess the alignmen...
Modified WKB methods for the propogation and scattering of electromagnetic waves

A new formulation of scattering and propagation problems has been developed using Green's functions with essentially correct local behavior. This formulation, which is exact, yields the familiar WKB result as its zeroth approximation. Higher order corrections depend on the spatial variation of the local index of refraction. The convergence is rapid if these variations are gradual. By way of illustration, the method has been applied to the propagation of electromagnetic waves in an isotropic stratified medium and to the scattering of waves by an inhomogeneity. In the former case, the problem of total reflection, as by the ionosphere, has been studied and corrections to the usual WKB phase shift have been obtained. These corrections arise as a consequence of deviations of the effective dielectric constant from linearity in the neighborhood of the turning point, and also because of the slow approach of the height-gain function to its asymptotic value far from the turning point. In the latter example, approximate expressions are obtained for both the scattering amplitude and the close-in electric field which are valid when the index of refraction of the scattering center is close to unity. Polarization effects are examined explicitly.
Toward a unified voice--individual and collective responsibility of nurses.

In this paper the individual and collective responsibility of nurses is discussed in relation to the development of appropriate health care systems to meet the health needs of all individuals in society. The author focuses, in particular, on primary health care. The individual and collective responsibility of the professional nurse entails a commitment to constant improvement of health. The concept of the ‘nursing collective’ is discussed and the roles of the individual nurse and national and international nursing organizations in the change process are considered.
Functional and structural properties of stannin: roles in cellular growth, selective toxicity, and mitochondrial responses to injury

Stannin (Snn) was discovered using subtractive hybridization methodology designed to find gene products related to selective organotin toxicity and apoptosis. The cDNAs for Snn were first isolated from brain tissues sensitive to trimethyltin, and were subsequently used to localize, characterize, and identify genomic DNA, and other gene products of Snn. Snn is a highly conserved, 88 amino acid protein found primarily in vertebrates. There is a minor divergence in the C-terminal sequence between amphibians and primates, but a nearly complete conservation of the first 60 residues in all vertebrates sequenced to date. Snn is a membrane-bound protein and is localized, in part, to the mitochondria and other vesicular organelles, suggesting that both localization and conservation are significant for the overall function of the protein. The structure of Snn in a micellar environment and its architecture in lipid bilayers have been determined using a combination of solution and solid-state NMR, respectively. Snn structure comprised a single transmembrane domain (residues 10-33), a 28-residue linker region from residues 34-60 that contains a conserved CXC metal binding motif and a putative 14-3-3xi binding region, and a cytoplasmic helix (residues 61-79), which is partially embedded into the membrane. Of primary interest is understanding how this highly-conserved peptide with an interesting structure and cellular localization transmits both normal and potentially toxic signals within the cell. Evidence to date suggests that organotins such as trimethyltin interact with the CXC region of Snn, which is vicinal to the putative 14-3-3 binding site. In vitro transfection analyses and microarray experiments have inferred a possible role of Snn in several key signaling systems, including activation of the p38-ERK cascade, p53-dependent pathways, and 14-3-3xi protein-mediated processes. TNFalpha can induce Snn mRNA expression in endothelial cells in a PKC-epsilon dependent manner. Studies with Snn siRNA suggest that this protein may be involved in growth regulation, since inhibition of Snn expression alone leads to reduced endothelial cells growth and induction of COP-1, a negative regulator of p53 function. A key piece of the puzzle, however, is how and why such a highly-conserved protein, localized to mitochondria, interacts with other regulatory proteins to alter growth and apoptosis. By knowing the structure, location, and possible signaling pathways involved, we propose that Snn constitutes an important sensor of mitochondrial damage, and plays a key role in the mediation of cross-talk between mitochondrial and nuclear compartments in specific cell types.
A review of acitretin, a systemic retinoid for the treatment of psoriasis

Acitretin is a second-generation, systemic retinoid that has been approved for the treatment of psoriasis since 1997. It can be considered one of the treatments of choice for pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis. However, the efficacy of acitretin as a monotherapy for plaque psoriasis is less, although it is often used in combination therapy with other systemic psoriasis therapies, especially ultraviolet B or psoralen plus ultraviolet A phototherapy, to increase efficacy. Such combination treatments may potentially minimise toxicity by using lower doses of each of the two agents. All systemic retinoids are potent teratogens. The most common side effects are mucocutanous effects such as cheilitis and hair loss, which are dose-dependent. Acitretin is not immunosuppressive, is generally safe for long-term use and has no time limit restrictions, which makes it useful in combination therapy and for maintenance therapy.
Emotional Health of Black and White Dementia Caregivers: A Contextual Examination

The aim of this study was to examine emotional health (e.g., depressive symptomatology) among 295 Black and 425 White dementia caregivers. I selected caregivers from the Resources for Enhancing Alzheimer's Caregivers' Health (REACH) data set. I used regression analysis to examine racial differences and the relationship between the contextual variables and depressive symptoms. Overall, age, size of social network, satisfaction with social activities, financial difficulty, positive aspects of caregiving, stressfulness appraisal, and health problems were related to depressive symptoms. Contextual factors were not homogeneous across race; the number of memory and behavior problems of the care recipient was associated with more reports of depressive symptoms among Black caregivers only. Results suggest the importance of examining various contexts surrounding the actual environment in which Black and White dementia caregivers provide care.
Toward learning time-varying functions with high input dimensionality

Adaptive control problems in which the control law changes over time are considered. Such problems arise in robotics applications in which unanticipated variations in sensors, effectors, and the work environment change the desired input/output behavior of the controller. The problems are characterized in terms of learning an input/output function, and algorithms are presented for quick learning of such time-varying functions. The techniques presented are particularly effective for problems with input spaces of high dimensionality. The authors discuss why many existing algorithms are unsuitable for this type of problem and propose additional techniques for reducing the dimensionality of input spaces. >
A Note on the Disappearance of the Good Shepherd from Early Christian Art

The image of the Good Shepherd was by far the most popular representation of Christ in the Church's first four centuries. In his article on the subject in the Dictionnaire d'archeologie chretienne et de liturgie, Henri Leclerq gives more than three hundred examples, dating to the beginning of the fifth century, and his list is by no means exhaustive. In the first half of the fifth century, however, the Good Shepherd suddenly vanishes from Christian art in both East and West, with perhaps a few relatively insignificant exceptions, to be replaced by the images of Christ as teacher and as king—images that had become increasingly important in the iconography of Christ over the course of the previous hundred years. The Good Shepherd did not reappear upon the scene until well into the Middle Ages. What was responsible for its disappearance?
Reconstituting Pessimistic Discourses

Abstract The story of South Africa's struggles and present achievements is highlighted in its national museums. An examination of the discourses constructed by and the pedagogies utilised in these museums shares narratives of progress, memorial and optimism. On a continent whose stories are typically told as tales of pessimism and doom, these narratives produce a new and different discourse surrounding South Africa. Ultimately, this article finds that these ‘new’, optimistic discourses exist with a framework of global pessimism placed upon Africa by a neoliberal world dependent upon an underdeveloped Africa.
Selective Infra-Red Gas Analyzers*, †

A summary of infra-red methods of gas analysis is presented. The experimental work which led to the development of an instrument for service applications is described. The properties of this final instrument are outlined, together with a resume of performance characteristics for a number of applications.
Validated Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography for Quantification of Furosemide in Tablets and Nanoparticles

A simple, sensitive, and specific method for furosemide (FUR) analysis by reverse-phase-HPLC was developed using a Spherisorb C18 ODS 2 column. A chromatographic analysis was carried out using a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 10 mM potassium phosphate buffer solution: 70 : 30 (v/v) at pH 3.85, at a flow rate of 1 mL·min−1. The UV-detection method was carried out at 233 nm at room temperature. Validation parameters including limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantitation (LOQ), linearity range, precision, accuracy, robustness, and specificity were investigated. Results indicated that the calibration curve was linear () in the range of 5.2 to 25,000 ng·mL−1, with e value equal to L·M−1·cm−1. The LOD and LOQ were found to be 5.2 and 15.8 ng·mL−1, respectively. The developed method was found to be accurate (RSD less than 2%), precise, and specific with an intraday and interday RSD range of 1.233–1.509 and 1.615 to 1.963%. The stability of native FUR has also been performed in simulated perilymph and endolymph media (with respective potency in each medium of % and %, ) after 6 hours. This method may be routinely used for the quantitative analysis of FUR from nanocarriers, USP tablets and release media related to hearing research
Creating the virtual/digital library of the future

Developments in information technology, telemedicine and consumer health combined with the dynamic Texas Medical Center environment have created an opportunity and imperative for a major leap forward in creating a Library for the Future. This paper discusses the strategic plans undertaken by the Houston Academy of Medicine-Texas Medical Center Library to create a virtual library environment to support access to electronic resources. The Library developed a five year Knowledge Management Program to improve access to biomedical information, support informatics education for health sciences professionals, and provide electronic information services to the community. The five objectives of this program are discussed.
Photochemical synthesis of a palladium dichloromethyl complex, {(hexyl)HC(N-methyl-imidazol-2-yl)2}Pd(CHCl2)Cl.: X-ray molecular structures of {(hexyl)HC(N-methylimidazolyl-2-yl)2}Pd(X)Cl, X=Cl, and CHCl2

Abstract The reaction of (hexyl)HC(mim) 2 ( 1 , mim= N -methyl-imidazol-2-yl) with (cod)PdMeCl in C 6 H 6 yields {(hexyl)HC(mim) 2 }Pd(Me)Cl ( 3 ). The photochemical reaction of 3 with CH 2 Cl 2 at 23 °C in ambient room light yields {(hexyl)HC(mim) 2 }Pd(CHCl 2 )Cl ( 4 ). It is proposed that this reaction proceeds by homolytic scission of the PdMe bond of 3 .
Compound release from nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs)

Abstract Active compounds such as flavors, scents, vitamins or nutraceuticals enhance the quality and nutritional value of foods. Their encapsulation in nanoparticles preserves properties such as appearance, while increasing solubility and bioavailability. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) composed of liquid and solid lipid domains are biocompatible and combine high encapsulation rates with mechanical stability. In this paper we use Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the effects of the solid domain properties on the rate of compound release from NLC. Quite surprisingly, solid impenetrable domains at the particle/solution interface hinder release only when the domain size is much smaller than the nanoparticle size, even if they cover a significant fraction of the interface. The geometry of the solid domains also affects the rate of release, and how the rate dependence on domain size and fraction.
Evaluating environmental impact of Nigerian composted wastes using laboratory extraction test.

Composting is an option for biodegradable waste management in Nigeria, but there is no relatively simple, fast screening compliance procedure applied to allow reliable judgment of acceptability of the recycled waste materials for land use. This study, therefore, investigated the possibility of using water extractable metal fraction at different water to compost ratios (W/C); 50:1, 20:1, 10:1, 5:1 and 2:1, to evaluate the potential availability of Zn, Pb, Cu and Cd contained in 6 compost formulations via batch extraction procedure. The effect of turning during compost production, on the metal water solubility was also assessed. Metal concentration was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry, after acid digestion. Results showed that the percentages of water extractable metal fraction (PWE) varied from 2.43 to 34.11% for Cu, 1.6 to 23.33% for Cd, 0.76 to 20.88% for Pb and 0.01 to 7.11% for Zn and their correlations against W/C gave negative coefficients (-0.100 to -0.809). From the maximum value, PWE decreased in the order: Cu > Cd > Pb > Zn and for a rapid assessment of potential metal availability from these composts, W/C from 5:1 to 20:1 could be the best indicator. The factor of turning during the composting procedure did not appear to have played a significant role in the metal availability. Study contributes to the development of base knowledge necessary to define compost land application practices that are protective of soil and water quality in the country.
Summary of the scientific literature for pain and anxiety control in dentistry journal literature, January 1986-December 1987.

Abstract This bibliography contains both foreign (in brackets) and English language citations obtained from Index to Dental Literature, Index Medicus, and Psychological Abstracts for the period January 1986 to December 1987. Although a careful search of these indexes was performed, every relevant citation may not be included. Comments or suggestions regarding this bibliography are welcomed by the author.
Elder abuse. From definition to prevention.

Only recently has elder abuse become recognized as a widespread problem--possibly almost as prevalent as child abuse. As with other forms of abuse, mistreatment of elderly patients may be difficult to recognize. Adding to the problem is that often when abuse is suspected, admission may be difficult to elicit from the patient because of embarrassment or fear of reprisal. Dr Bourland offers a helpful overview of elder abuse, including causes, profiles of victim and abuser, clues to identifying abuse, and steps to take when abuse is suspected. Language: en
Inorganic Pyrophosphatase Activity of Dog Aorta

SummaryDog aortas have been found to contain a Mg2+-stimulated inorganic pyrophosphate phosphohydrolase activity. The enzyme is maximally active at pH 7.5 and has a Km for PPi of 3 μM at this pH. This activity is extremely sensitive to inhibition by Ca2+. A role for this latter phenomenon in a postulated mechanism for the inhibition of calcification of the aorta is suggested.