cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pollution Prevention—Occupational Safety and Health in Hospitals: Alternatives and Interventions

An integrated pollution prevention (P2) and occupational safety and health (OSH) worksite intervention and alternatives assessment strategy was developed in hospitals. It was called the Pollution Prevention-Occupational Safety and Health (P2OSH) assessment for the “Sustainable Hospitals Project.” Methods included (a) developing a participatory intervention model for introducing more environmentally sound, healthy, and safe materials and work practices for specific hospital procedures; (b) developing an integrated P2OSH survey to evaluate environmental and occupational impacts of the intervention; and (c) conducting and evaluating interventions by applying the P2OSH assessment pre- and post-intervention. Eleven interventions were performed in six hospitals: an aliphatic fixative replaced xylene in three histology laboratories; a mercury reduction plan was implemented in three clinical laboratories; digital imaging replaced wet chemical film processing in three radiology departments; a less toxic aldehyde r...
Unification of electron scavenging and fluorescence quenching results in cyclohexane radiolysis—Evidence for the importance of excited ions

Abstract Recent experiments from several laboratories have determined the yield of cyclohexane fluorescence as a function of electron scavenger concentration. The results are not compatible with previous measurements of the yields of chemical product resulting from reaction of the electron with the scavenger in cyclohexane if the excited solvent state, RH ∗ , is formed simply by the recombination of the electron and the alkane radical cation. We propose that interaction with an electron beam creates RH ∗+ . which on recombination with the electron does not form RH ∗ . RH ∗+ . relaxes to form RH + . which does form RH ∗ on reaction with the electron. The mechanism was tested using published data on fluorescence quenching for the electron scavengers perfluorohexane (measured in two different laboratories) and perfluorodecalin, and good agreement was obtained.
Ultrabright NIR fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles

Near-infrared (NIR) water-dispersible fluorescent tags are of big importance for biomedical imaging. Bright, stable, biocompatible NIR fluorescent nanoparticles have great translation potential to improve diagnosis of early stages of different diseases. Here we report on the synthesis of exceptionally bright (“ultrabright”) fluorescent meso(nano)porous silica nanoparticles of 28 ± 3 nm in diameter. The NIR fluorescent dye LS277 is encapsulated inside these silica nanoparticles. The wavelengths of the maximum excitation/fluorescence of the particles are 804/815 nm. The absorptivity coefficient of the particles is 2.1 × 108 M−1 cm−1 at 805 nm and the quantum yield of the dye increased by a factor of 5 after encapsulating to 1.5%. The fluorescent brightness of these particles is more than 2000× higher than the fluorescence of one molecule of LS277 in water. When exited in NIR spectral region (>700 nm), these particles are up to 4× brighter than QD800 commercial quantum dots emitting at 800 nm. We demonstrate that the synthesized NIR mesoporous silica nanoparticles easily internalize 4T1luc breast tumor cells, and remain bright for more than 9 weeks whereas the dye is completely bleached by that time.
Radiation efficiency of planar implantable antennas at ISM band

Most attentions regarding the performance of implantable antennas have been paid to the reflection coefficient (S11 with respect to 50 Ω), bandwidth, and far-field radiation pattern, while little effort has been dedicated to investigate the radiation efficiency during the implant design process. Analysis of two slot-type (annular and meandered) and two strip-type (ring and meandered PIFA) antennas embedded in muscle is presented in this paper at 2.4 GHz ISM band. It reveals that the slot types have superior performance in terms of their radiation efficiency. Also, the radiation efficiency is improved by operating away from the resonance, mostly where the admittance is inductive. The radiation efficiency may vary over an order of magnitude or more depending on the choice of the antenna and its resonance point, a fact that deserves further attention.
Clinical Features and Colonic Motor Disturbances in Chronic Megacolon in Adults

Background Chronic megacolon is a rare disease of the colonic motor function characterized by a permanent increase in colonic diameter.
Solid-State Joining of Metal Matrix Composites: A Survey of Challenges and Potential Solutions

This article examines the challenges associated with joining particulate-reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs). A survey of published research reveals the problems inherent in fusion welding of MMCs, namely, porosity and the formation of a deleterious theta phase precipitated by the reaction of molten Aluminum with the reinforcement. The theta phase is absent in joints produced using friction stir welding (FSW), a solid-state process. FSW, however, is not a panacea, as FSW welds of MMCs are characterized by rapid and severe wear of the welding tool. Research efforts to characterize and mitigate wear incurred during this process are also documented.
Conformational and Amino Acid Residue Requirements for the Saposin C Neuritogenic Effect

Prosaposin is the precursor of four activator proteins, termed saposins A, B, C, and D, that are required for much of glycosphingolipid hydrolysis. The intact precursor also has neurite outgrowth activity ex vivo and in vivo that is localized to amino acid residues 22-31 of saposin C. Across species, this saposin C region has a high degree of identity and similarity with amino acids in the analogous region of saposin A. Wild-type and mutant saposins C and A from human and mouse were expressed in E. coli. Pure proteins, synthetic peptide analogues, conformation-specific antibodies, and CD spectroscopy were used to evaluate the basis of the ex vivo neuritogenic effect. Wild-type saposin A had no neuritogenic activity whereas reduced and alkylated saposin A did. Introduction of the conserved saposin A Tyr 30 (Y30) into saposin C at the analogous position 31, a conserved Ala(A)/Gly(G)31, diminished neuritogenic activity by 50-60%. Nondenatured saposin A with an introduced A30 acquired substantial neuritogenic activity. Polyclonal antibodies directed against the NH2-terminus of saposin C cross-reacted well with reduced and alkylated saposins C and A, wild-type saposin C, and saposin A [Y30A], poorly with saposin C [A31Y], and not at all with wild-type saposin A. CD spectra of wild-type and mutant saposins C and A, the corresponding neuritogenic region of saposin C, and the analogous region of saposin A showed that more "saposin C-like" molecules had neuritogenic properties. Those with more "saposin A-like" spectra did not. These studies show that the neuritogenic activity of saposin C requires specific placement of amino acids, and that Y30 of saposin A significantly alters local conformation in this critical region and suppresses neuritogenic activity.
Construction and Evaluation of a Visible Spectrometer Using Digital Micromirror Spatial Light Modulation

Digital micromirror devices (DMDs), also known as spatial light modulators, have been produced in a wide variety of configurations specific to their applications such as joint-transform correlator systems, optical neural networks, and high-definition televisions. The characteristics of DMD technology and flexibility of design lend themselves to a new application in optical spectrometers. Medium-resolution optical spectrometers, with a spectral bandwidth on the order of 1 nm, are widely used in instrumentation designed to record molecular absorption spectra in the ultraviolet and visible regions and are among the most widely used laboratory instruments. Modern UV-visible spectrometers usually are designed to use a multichannel detector, such as a photodiode array (PDA), in conjunction with a compact fixed-resolution spectrograph and can record spectra with reasonable speed, ∼ 30 ms. These spectrographs have no moving parts and are used for on-line detection of chromatographic eluents, for routine analytical determinations, and for industrial applications such as measurements made in process streams. However, diode array detectors are generally more expensive and are less sensitive than photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), particularly in the UV, and require cooling when a long integration time and low dark current are necessary. In addition, the diode array cannot acquire spectra fast enough for most kinetic studies to be made. A medium-resolution spectrometer which incorporates DMD technology and a PMT for detection has the potential of obtaining a spectrum on the order of a few milliseconds with high sensitivity at a lower cost than that for current PDA or charged-coupled device (CCD) spectrometers. Another advantage of the DMD spectrometer is that it possesses the capability of repetitively scanning a small portion of the spectrum without collecting the entire spectrum (random pixel access). The high sensitivity of a DMD spectrometer using a PMT also makes it ideal for fluorescence and phosphorescence detection.
UvrD Helicase Unwinds DNA One Base Pair at a Time by a Two-Part Power Stroke

Helicases use the energy derived from nucleoside triphosphate hydrolysis to unwind double helices in essentially every metabolic pathway involving nucleic acids. Earlier crystal structures have suggested that DNA helicases translocate along a single-stranded DNA in an inchworm fashion. We report here a series of crystal structures of the UvrD helicase complexed with DNA and ATP hydrolysis intermediates. These structures reveal that ATP binding alone leads to unwinding of 1 base pair by directional rotation and translation of the DNA duplex, and ADP and Pi release leads to translocation of the developing single strand. Thus DNA unwinding is achieved by a two-part power stroke in a combined wrench-and-inchworm mechanism. The rotational angle and translational distance of DNA define the unwinding step to be 1 base pair per ATP hydrolyzed. Finally, a gateway for ssDNA translocation and an alternative strand-displacement mode may explain the varying step sizes reported previously.
PET/CT in Gynecologic Malignancies

Ovarian cancer and malignancies of the uterine cervix and corpus are the most commonly encountered gynecologic neoplasms in clinical practice. Although of little value in both diagnosis and early-stage gynecologic malignancy, fluorodeoxyglucose-PET and PET/computed tomography provide accurate detection of metastatic disease in advanced malignancy and better delineation of recurrent disease compared with conventional imaging.
Depo Now: preventing unintended pregnancies among adolescents and young adults.

Abstract Purpose We compared the immediate administration of DMPA (Depo Now) to the immediate use of short-term hormonal methods that served as a "bridge method" until later DMPA initiation. We examined whether Depo Now, as compared to initiating with a bridge method (pills, transdermal patch, or vaginal ring), resulted in greater DMPA continuation at six months. Methods Young women aged 14 to 26 years seeking to use DMPA were randomized (nonblinded) after meeting eligibility criteria to either the Depo Now (n = 101) or bridge method (n = 232) group. Depo Now subjects received their first injection of DMPA at the conclusion of their first visit provided each was medically suitable and had a negative urine pregnancy test regardless of menstrual cycle day. Those assigned to the bridge method group were allowed to choose their starting contraceptive method and it was provided at the first visit. All subjects were told to return to the clinic in 21 days to repeat the urine pregnancy test, and among those who were assigned to use a bridge method, to receive their first injection of DMPA. All subjects were followed to their third injection, or about 6 months later. Results Those randomized to a bridge method were 1.8 (1.1, 2.9) times more likely than Depo Now subjects to return for their 21-day repeat pregnancy test, but only 55% (n = 125) of these young women actually received their first DMPA injection. Continuation rates at the third injection were 29.7% (n = 30) for those in the Depo Now group and 21.1% (n = 49) for those assigned to the bridge method ( p = .09). Three factors were significantly associated with adherence to the third injection: randomized to Depo Now group, knowing more women who use DMPA, and returning to clinic for the 21-day repeat pregnancy test visit. Finally, 28 pregnancies were diagnosed during the study period, and those in the bridge method group were almost 4.0 (1.2, 13.4) times more likely to be diagnosed with a pregnancy than those in the Depo Now group. Conclusions Immediate administration of DMPA is associated with improved adherence to DMPA continuation and fewer pregnancies.
Chemotactic repellents of Bacillus subtilis

A number of membrane-active agents, including uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation, a permeant anion, and local anaesthetics, are repellents of Bacillus subtilis . These bacteria normally swim, but tumble occasionally. However, when given such a reagent, they tumble and then later resume the original frequency of swimming and tumbling (i.e they adapt). We suggest that repellents of B. subtilis act directly on the membrane to cause tumbling, rather than through orthodox chemoreceptors as for enteric bacteria, and further, that decrease of ≈, the high energy state of the membrane interpreted as electrochemical gradient of H + ions across the membrane (chemiosmotic hypothesis), causes tumbling and increase causes swimming.
MULTIVARIATE SPECTRAL ANALYSIS USING HILBERT WAVELET PAIRS

We investigate the use of Hilbert wavelet pairs (HWPs) in the non-decimated discrete wavelet transform for the time-varying spectral analysis of multivariate time series. HWPs consist of two high-pass and two low-pass compactly supported filters, such that one high-pass filter is the Hilbert transform (approximately) of the other. Thus, common quantities in the spectral analysis of time series (e.g., power spectrum, coherence, phase) may be estimated in both time and frequency. Compact support of the wavelet filters ensures that the frequency axis will be partitioned dyadically as with the usual discrete wavelet transform. The proposed methodology is used to analyze a bivariate time series of zonal (u) and meridional (v) winds over Truk Island.
Scattering of long‐wavelength elastic waves by a cylindrical obstacle in a solid

The scattering of plane shear and compressional waves incident normally upon an infinitely long circular cylindrical obstacle in an isotropic homogeneous elastic solid medium is examined in the case in which the incident wavelength is large compared to the obstacle diameter. The scatterer can be either an empty cavity, a nonviscous‐fluid‐filled cavity, or an elastic solid cylinder. Explicit approximate expressions for the scattering cross sections are derived from the general theory formulated by White. The cross sections are proportional to (ka)3, where k is the compressional or shear wave‐vector amplitude, and a is the cylinder radius.
A model equation for viscoelasticity with a strongly singular kernel

In much of the mathematical work on nonlinear viscoelasticity it is assumed that the kernel (or memory function) is smooth on $[0,\infty )$. There are, however, theoretical and experimental indications that certain viscoelastic materials may be described by equations involving kernels that are singular at zero. In this paper we establish local (in time) existence of smooth solutions to a nonlinear integrodifferential equation with a singular kernel. This equation provides a model for the motion of a certain class of viscoelastic materials. Our analysis is based on energy estimates and properties of positive definite kernels.
An endoscopic wireless gastrostimulator (with video)

Background Gastric electric stimulation (GES) at a high-frequency, low-energy setting is an option for treating refractory gastroparesis. The currently available commercial stimulator, the Enterra neurostimulator (Medtronic Inc, Minneapolis, MN), however, requires surgical implantation and is powered by a nonrechargeable battery. Objective To develop and test a miniature wireless GES device for endoscopic implantation in an experimental model. Design In-vivo gastric signals were recorded and measured in a nonsurvival swine model ( n = 2; 110-lb animals). Intervention An endoscopically placed, wireless GES device was inserted into the stomach through an overtube; the two GES electrodes were endoscopically attached to the gastric mucosa and secured with endoclips to permit stimulation. Main Outcome Measurements Stable electrogastrogram measures were observed during GES stimulation. Results Electrogastrogram recordings demonstrated that gastric slow waves became more regular and of constant amplitudes when stomach tissues were stimulated, in comparison with no stimulation. The frequency-to-amplitude ratio also changed significantly with stimulation. Limitation Nonsurvival pig studies. Conclusion Gastric electric stimulation is feasible by our endoscopically implanted, wireless GES device.
Further evidence for a broadband, isotropic mechanism sensitive to high-velocity stimuli

Abstract Spatial frequency and orientation selectivity, the most prominent properties of image-processing in the striate cortex, are not uniform throughout the spatiotemporal frequency domain. Some current models include one “transient” mechanism at very high velocities (i.e. low spatial and high temporal frequencies) and multiple “sustained” mechanisms elsewhere in the spatiotemporal frequency domain, but they do not consider the parameter of orientation. On the basis of earlier, orthogonal masking experiments, we concluded that the high-velocity mechanism is sensitive to a broad band of spatial frequencies and has little or no orientation selectivity. In the present study we use pattern adaptation to measure the spatiotemporal properties of this mechanism. In other experiments, we attempt to relate it to the direction-selective motion detectors that also respond at high velocities. Finally we compare the pattern-adaptation results to the results of orthogonal subthreshold summation experiments in the same region of high temporal and low spatial frequencies.
Adequacy of lymph node examination in colorectal surgery: contribution of the hospital versus the surgeon.

Author(s): Rhoads, Kim F; Ackerson, Leland K; Ngo, Justine V; Gray-Hazard, Florette K; Subramanian, SV; Dudley, R Adams | Abstract: BackgroundExamination of at least 12 lymph nodes (LNs) in the staging of colon cancer (CC) was recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network in 2000; however, rates of an adequate examination remain low. This study compares the impact of the hospital contextual variance against that of the operating surgeon on delivery of an adequate LN examination.Study designRetrospective analysis of California Cancer Registry data for all CC operations (2001-2006). Hierarchical models predicted the adequacy of LN examination as a function of patient, surgeon, and hospital characteristics. Models were created using penalized quasi-likelihood approximation with second order Taylor linearization as implemented in MLwiN 2.15.ResultsA total of 25,606 resections involving 3376 surgeons operating in 346 hospitals were analyzed. Half of cases had an adequate examination. Hierarchical models showed the median odds of an adequate examination associated with the hospital context [(MORhosp 2.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.9-2.2) was much higher than that associated with the surgeon (MORsurg 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-1.4)]. Hospital characteristics teaching and high volume predicted higher odds of an adequate examination. There was no association with hospital revenue.ConclusionsApproximately half of patients undergoing surgery for CC received an adequate LN examination. Hospital contextual factors had a stronger association with receipt of an adequate examination than surgeon factors. Our results suggest that quality improvement initiatives and incentives should be targeted at the hospital level to achieve the highest impact. Furthermore, we have identified nonteaching and low volume settings as rational targets for these efforts.
An investigation of stress effects on graphite oxidation

Abstract The gasification rate of Great Lakes H-440 graphite was studied using either CO 2 or H 2 O as the reactant, while at the same time applying varying compressive stresses to the samples of up to 10% of the compressive strength. The concentrations of reaction products were continuously monitored using high sensitivity IR gas analyzers. In no case was any change in reactivity detected when a change in stress was made. This result contradicts reports by other workers using tensile stresses. An analysis of possible explanations for these early reports shows that none are able to explain the magnitudes of the effects described in these early reports.
Responding during signaled availability and nonavailability of iv cocaine and food in rats: age and sex differences.

Rationale Research suggests that age and sex are vulnerability factors for drug abuse. However, few studies have systematically examined their interaction.
Percutaneous Abscess Drainage: Use of Related Radiology Services and Associated Economic Impact on a Radiology Practice

PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of percutaneous abscess drainage on the usage and professional value of subsequent services provided by a radiology practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Percutaneous abscess drainage was selected as a marker interventional radiology procedure because of its pervasiveness and ease of identification of related services. Billing records were reviewed for 48 consecutive patients who underwent abscess drainage during a 9-month period. Current procedural terminology (CPT) codes for all radiology services during the subsequent 90 days were analyzed to identify those related to the initial drainage procedure. Professional relative value unit (RVU) impact was calculated. RESULTS Initial abscess drainage services were identified by 2.6 ± 1.2 CPT codes, but patients underwent 13.4 ± 10.7 related radiology services during the subsequent 90 days. The professional RVU impact of subsequent services was 64% higher than that of initial procedures: initial drainage services accounted for 11.5 ± 5.1 RVUs and all subsequent related radiology services accounted for 18.9 ± 16.8 RVUs ( P = .0042). Of those, additional interventional radiology procedures amounted to 10.7 ± 12.8 RVUs, diagnostic radiology services 4.7 ± 4.6 RVUs, and evaluation and management services 3.5 ± 2.9 RVUs. CONCLUSION Basic interventional radiology services may result in far more economic impact on radiology practices than initial direct procedure analyses suggest. For percutaneous abscess drainage, the professional RVU impact of subsequent services exceeds that of the initial procedure by 64%. Practices negotiating capitated contracts for interventional services need to consider the high value of such related services.
Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of Porous Structure Formation in Electrospun Fibers

The development of internal microstructure in electrospun fibers has been investigated both experimentally and theoretically. Various morphologies such as tubes, beads, and porous structures have been observed experimentally during electrospinning from amorphous polymer solutions such as poly(methyl methacrylate)/methylene chloride and poly(styrene)/tetrahydrofuran. The dynamics of electrospinning is modeled based on multiple virtual strands of beads connected by Maxwell's elements in a cylindrical coordinate system. Concurrently, spatiotemporal growth of the porous structure is calculated in the framework of Cahn−Hilliard time-evolution equation under the quasi steady state assumption coupled with the solvent evaporation rate equation. The coarse-grain simulation reveals the real-time formation of pores along the spinline of the electrospun fiber as the concentration traverses across the phase diagram of the amorphous polymer solution.
Can Alzheimer's type pathology influence the clinical phenotype of Parkinson's disease?

Objectives – Patients with clinical and pathological diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) may, at death, also be found to have the pathological changes of Alzheimer's disease (AD). With this study we aim to determine the influence of AD pathology on the clinical phenotype of PD. Methods – We studied 64 patients who donated their brains to the University of Miami Brain Endowment BankTM and fulfilled the clinical and pathological criteria for PD. For the evaluation of AD pathology we used the CERAD criteria. Dementia was diagnosed, in life, also using standard criteria. Case histories were abstracted and reviewed by one investigator (SP) who then made comparisons between patients. Results – Patients with AD pathology (PD–AD) were older both at the time of diagnosis and death. The presence of AD pathology did not seem to influence disease duration in our cohort of PD patients. As expected there was a clear relation between AD pathology and dementia but not all PD–AD patients were demented. Psychosis and depression were also found to be more prevalent in the PD–AD patients. In the comparison between demented and non-demented PD–AD patients dementia was more likely to appear in patients with PD and definite criteria for AD. Conclusion – Apart from dementia AD pathology seems to be associated with a number of other clinical characteristics of PD.
Efficient in vitro translation and processing of the rubella virus structural proteins in the presence of microsomes.

Abstract In the structural protein open reading frame (SP-ORF) of rubella virus (RUB), the sequences for the three virion proteins occur in the order NH 2 CE2E1COON with hydrophobic, consensus signal sequences preceding the amino termini for each of the two membrane proteins (T. K. Frey and L. D. Marr, 1988 Gene 62, 85–100) . In vitro translation in the presence of microsomes of RNA transcripts from a plasmid containing the SP-ORF resulted in production and accurate processing of the three structural proteins. Since in the absence of microsomes the 110-kDa precursor of these proteins is produced, this finding indicated that the cleavage events in processing of the precursor were mediated by signalase. To study the C-E2 processing event, a DNA construct was made which contained the sequences for E2 beginning at the NHZ terminus of the hydrophobic consensus signal and extending through to the NH2 terminus of E1. In vitro translation of transcripts from this construct in the presence of microsomes resulted in accurate processing of E2 confirming that the hydrophobic sequence was a signal sequence and demonstrating it could function externally as well as internally within the 110-kDa precursor. To determine if the E2 signal was maintained on C after cleavage of the precursor by signalase, the SP-ORF plasmid was mutagenized to place translation termination codons at either the NH 2 or COON side of the E2 signal sequence such that C protein lacking or containing the E2 signal would be produced. As expected, the C-minus-signal protein migrated more rapidly in polyacrylamide gels than did the C-plus-signal protein. C translated from the SP-ORF construct as well as authentic C from infected cells comigrated with the C-plus-signal protein, indicating that the E2 signal was not removed. In a corollary study, it was found that RUB C protein was phosphorylated in vivo , although the percentage of the protein phosphorylated was not determined.
Preliminary observations on the microstructure of nuclear waste glasses

Abstract The microstructures of simulated nuclear waste glasses prepared by the mixing of glass frit and calcined waste oxides at 1000°C are shown to contain well defined boundaries that are depleted of heavy elements. The development of small crystallites and phase separation have also been observed but no evidence of microcracking or interfacial separation at these discontinuities was found. The same glasses prepared at 1350°C were quite uniform at the microstructural level.
Are placental Fas and Fas ligand gene polymorphisms associated with preeclampsia

Introduction Increased placental trophoblastic apoptosis has been reported in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia. Fas–Fas ligand is one of the major signal transduction pathways of apoptosis. Objectives To determine if placental Fas and Fas ligand gene polymorphisms differ between patients with and without preeclampsia. Methods Forty-five singleton placentas were studied. Twenty-three placentas were from preeclamptic pregnancies and 22 were from normotensive controls. The study was approved by IRB. Genotyping was performed for Fas-1377, Fas-691, Fas-670, Fas ligand-844, Fas ligand-1174, Fas ligand-2777. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used for statistical analysis. Results There were no significant differences in maternal age, parity or race between the two groups. There were no significant differences in genotypes or allele frequencies for the placental Fas-1377, Fas-691, Fas-670, Fas ligand-844, Fas ligand-1174 and Fas ligand-2777. Conclusion Immune intolerance of maternal and placental interaction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Our findings do not support the role of placental Fas and Fas ligand gene polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. The heterogeneous and complex etiology of preeclampsia makes it unrealistic to expect a single nucleotide polymorphism to explain the pathogenesis of this pregnancy complication. This relatively understudied area warrants further investigation.
THE CENTER FOR ADVANCED STUDY INRELIGION AND SCIENCE: A PERSONALPERSPECTIVE

. This brief account of my year as a fellow of the Centerfor Advanced Studies in Theology and the Sciences recounts theinvaluable supports given by the center to my efforts as a theolo-gian to assess the scientific aspects of the theology of Pierre Teil-hard de Chardin, summarizes my findings, and indicates some ofthe potential for the support of interdisciplinary studies in religionand the sciences afforded by the successor organization, the Centerfor Advanced Study in Religion and Science.
Double Balloon Enteroscopy in a North American Setting: A Large Single Center 5-year Experience

usually with a bidirectional approach, and both tissue acquisition and therapy, including polypectomy, stricture dilation and cauterization, can be performed. Complication rates are reportedly low, and learning curves appear to indicate rapid proficiency. Pioneered in Japan and Europe, there are few North American studies of the utility and safety of DBE in the evaluation of small bowel disease. In this study, we present an overview of a five-year experience in DBE performed at a single North American center. The aim of the study was to determine the indications, diagnostic accuracy and complication rates of DBE in a tertiary/quaternary hospital setting.
SpeciesMap: a web-based application for visualizing the overlap of distributions and pollution events, with a list of fishes put at risk by the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill

The 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill was the largest in history outside of warfare and because the spill occurred in the deep sea, its impact on the biota will be difficult to assess. To help address this problem we have created SpeciesMap ( http://speciesmap.org ), a web-based application (web app) that allows a user to synthesize data on the oil spill with distributional records and other information on marine species. We have combined satellite image data collected over the course of the oil spill with locality data from historical collection records of fish species in a geographic information system. In doing so, we have created maps to assess which species were potentially in the region of the spill and to what degree their range was exposed to pollution. To evaluate the impact of the spill, we examined and categorized various levels of overlap between the observed surface range of the 2010 spill with collections records for 124 fish species including all 77 endemic to the Gulf of Mexico. More than half of all species examined (including more than half of all endemics) were found to have population records in the region of the spill. SpeciesMap contains interaction maps for all the species examined and these data can be used to target post-spill collections, to evaluate changes in habitat, and to discover extirpations or extinctions in response to environmental disturbances.
The Use of Mobile Phones by Microentrepreneurs in Kigali, Rwanda: Changes to Social and Business Networks

A survey in Kigali, Rwanda, suggests that mobiles are allowing microentrepreneurs to develop new business contacts. The results detail the impact of mobile ownership on the social networks of microentrepreneurs in lowteledensity areas, focusing on the evolving mix of business and personal calls made by users. The study differentiates between the contacts amplified through mobile ownership (friends and family ties) and those enabled by mobile ownership (new business ties). The article discusses applicability of the results to settings beyond Rwanda.
Automatic numerical differentiation by discrete mollification

Abstract A new, very simple, totally automated and powerful technique for numerical differentiation based on the computation of the derivative of a suitable filtered version of the noisy data by discrete mollification is presented. Several numerical examples of interest are also analyzed.
Desorption due to charge exchange in low‐energy collisions of organofluorine ions at solid surfaces

Collisions of organofluorine ions at a metal surface result in efficient emission of adsorbate species as gas-phase ions. The experiments are done at 120° scattering angle in a hybrid (BQ) mass spectrometer; the primary ions, mass-selected by a magnetic sector (B), are allowed to collide with a target at a selected kinetic energy in the tens of eV range and the emitted ions are mass-analyzed using a quadrupole mass filter (Q). It is proposed that the impinging ions undergo neutralization accompanied by desorption of hydrocarbon ions and that the amount of internal energy deposited in the desorbed ions is strongly dependent on the collision energy and affects their degree of fragmentation. Competing processes include reflection and fragmentation of the colliding particle, along with such ion/adsorbate reactions as hydrogen atom abstraction by the fluorinated ion. Small even-electron ions, such as [CHF2]+ and [C2H2F]+ are more effective in promoting chemical sputtering of the surface adsorbate as compared to larger ions (e.g. [C3F5]+) and odd-electron ions (e.g. [C2F4]+˙ and [C2HF2]+˙). At low energies some odd-electron fluorinated ions undergo collision without any secondary ions being emitted from the surface. In these cases the parent ions are apparently neutralized, but without sufficient energy transfer to cause hydrocarbon ion desorption. Non-fluorinated organic ions yield fragment ions and ion/surface reaction products under the condition of these experiments, but do not cause significant desorption of hydrocarbon ions.
External urethral sphincter dilation for the management of high risk myelomeningocele: 15-year experience.

Purpose: We investigate the long-term outcome using external urethral sphincter dilation for high risk myelomeningocele.Materials and Methods: Since 1984 external urethral sphincter dilation was performed in 25 patients with myelomeningocele who demonstrated passive leak point pressure greater than 40 cm. H2O and/or poor bladder compliance. Mean followup from the first dilation was 8.4 years. Overall 2.4 dilations were performed per patient (range 1 to 8). Cystometrography, imaging study and continence status were evaluated retrospectively.Results: Overall external urethral sphincter dilation produced durable improvements in mean leak point pressure (60.9 versus 34.4 cm. H2O), capacity (119.8 versus 233.3 ml.), initial compliance (11.5 versus 28.4 ml./cm. H2O) and terminal compliance (1.1 versus 7.7 ml./cm. H2O). Categorical analysis revealed 3 groups in terms of outcome. Group 1 consisted of 11 patients (44%) who demonstrated durable improvements in urodynamic parameters as well as preservation of the up...
The aesthetics of ethical virtues and the ethical virtues of aesthetics

My paper concentrates on that small part of Dewey’s ethical theory that deals with the personal virtues of character. Even more narrowly, I focus on a single section of Dewey’sEthics titled “The Conception of Virtue in Reflective Morality.” I do so because my primary concern here is not so much with the virtues Dewey discusses, important as they are, but with how he believes they should interact. If I am correct, Dewey thinks that when the virtues of character are interacting as they should, the result is an open dynamic harmony that fits his classical definition of beauty. Dewey’s understanding of virtues and their dynamic interaction breaks down the barrier between art, and ethics. Given that it is reflective morality that we are considering, that means Dewey is breaking down the barrier between cognition, art, and aesthetics as well. I conclude with some reflections as to why for Dewey what we often think of as personal virtues may only be comprehended in terms of a community wherein the same aesthetic principle of open dynamic harmony. I briefly discuss why alterity is as important as ipsiety for the pluralistic democrat.
Antennas in material media near boundaries with application to communication and geophysical exploration, Part II: The terminated insulated antenna

The properties of the insulated antenna in a dissipative medium near a boundary are reviewed. The important effects on antennas of being embedded in media with different properties over a wide range of frequencies are treated specifically in terms of three examples. These are: 1) a traveling-wave antenna in the earth below air at f \sim 0.1 MHz for subsurface communication; 2) an antiresonant antenna on the sea floor at f \sim 1 kHz and 3) an electrically short antenna on the sea floor at f \sim 1 Hz--both for geophysical measurements. In each case the current distribution, impedance, input power, effective length, and electric field in the range of interest are determined.
Universal Cross Sections for K-Shell Ionization by Low-Velocity Protons: Importance of Relativistic and Energy-Loss Effects

When Z1 << Z2, inner-shell ionization of a target atom of atomic number Z2 by a projectile of atomic number Z1 occurs predominately via removal of an inner-shell electron to the target atom continuum (direct ionization). Electron capture contributes then insignificantly to the ionization, and thus the predictions of perturbative-in-Z1/Z2 theories of direct ionization can be tested through comparison with measured ionization cross sections. We present such a comparison with the recently reported data1 for K-shell ionization of the Z2 = 22, 26, 28, and 30 elements by 60–150 keV protons (Z1=1). These ionization cross sections were inferred from x-ray production measurements using Krause’s fluorescence yields.2
Electrocardiographic effects of dexmedetomidine in patients with congenital heart disease

Assessment of electrocardiographic (ECG) effects of dexmedetomidine. Prospective observational study including children 0–17 years of age with congenital heart disease (CHD) and children following cardiothoracic surgery. Patients who did not receive dexmedetomidine were used as a control group. All patients had two ECGs: one baseline, pre-dexmedetomidine (T1) and one during dexmedetomidine infusion (T2). Fifty-one patients, median age of 0.5 years (IQR = 3.4), and 25 patients, age 0.25 (IQR = 2.9), were included in the dexmedetomidine and control groups, respectively. Forty received a dexmedetomidine-loading dose of 1 µg/kg (IQR = 0.5). At T2, the dexmedetomidine infusion was 1 µg/kg/h (IQR = 0.5). In the dexmedetomidine group, heart rate (HR) decreased from 140 ± 22 to 115 ± 23 (P < 0.001); PR, PRc and PR index changed from 115 ± 28 to 122 ± 29 ms (P = 0.01), 174 ± 38 to 167 ± 35 ms (P = 0.07) and 15,882 ± 3,565 to 13,792 ± 3,311 (P < 0.001), respectively. QRS decreased from 84 ± 21 to 80 ± 21 ms (P = 0.02), and QTc had no change (433 ± 47 to 435 ± 36 ms). When compared to the control group, none of the ECG intervals had any difference other than a trend towards lower HR (P = 0.08). Neonates and infants had a bigger drop in the HR compared to older children (P < 0.001), while other parameters were similar. At T2 none of the dexmedetomidine group patients had atrioventricular block or other arrhythmia. Four patients in the control group had accelerated junctional rhythm. Use of dexmedetomidine in patients with CHD and patients following cardiothoracic surgery is not associated with any significant ECG interval abnormalities other than a trend towards lower HR.
Genetics of cannibalism in a viviparous fish and its relationship to population density

THE success of viviparous species is a result of their capacity to produce small numbers of advanced offspring with high survivorship potential. Cannibalism, which would appear to be antithetical to this adaptation, is widespread among viviparous fishes1–3. I have examined the genetics of cannibalism and the significance of its density-dependent mechanism in teleosts of the genus Poeciliopsis. A five-membered unisexual–bisexual complex has evolved in this genus through hybridisation of a cannibalistic species, Poeciliopsis monacha, with the noncannibalistic species, P. lucida. Hybridisation of these two species formed P. monacha-lucida4, a diploid unisexual; backcrosses of this diploid form with each of its progenitors resulted in the evolution of two triploid unisexuals: P. monacha-2 lucida and P. 2 monacha-lucida5. All these rely on males of the bisexual species for fertilisation.
A study of double flutter

Abstract We study nonlinear flutter phenomena in a system of two airfoils in close proximity in an ideal fluid. In particular, we are interested in cases for which two aeroelastic instabilities are nearly critical simultaneously. Such Hopf–Hopf interactions, in general, are capable of generating a rich variety of dynamic phenomena, behaviors that possibly can be exploited to develop flow actuators. Our first task is to investigate the degree to which the double Hopf interactions are prevalent in the physical system. Secondly, using tools of center manifolds and normal forms, we investigate the richness of the dynamics in the two airfoil system. Analysis is facilitated by an effective reduced-order modeling effort.
DNA damage as a result of psychological stress: implications for breast cancer

Accumulating evidence indicates that psychological stress can have deleterious influences on cancer development and progression, but the mechanisms responsible remain unclear. One possible mechanism is suggested by emerging evidence that DNA damage is increased by exposure to stress and stress hormones (for example, cortisol, catecholamines). Possible molecular mechanisms for such effects were the subject of a recent paper by Hara and colleagues, which suggests that chronic stress, through β-adrenergic stimulation, can induce two synergistic pathways that result in accumulation of DNA damage. Herein, we discuss the potential implications of these findings for breast cancer etiology, progression, and treatment response.
Modulating the Redox Potential of the Stable Electron Acceptor, QB, in Mutagenized Photosystem II Reaction Centers

One of the unique features of electron transfer processes in photosystem II (PSII) reaction centers (RC) is the exclusive transfer of electrons down only one of the two parallel cofactor branches. In contrast to the RC core polypeptides (psaA and psaB) of photosystem I (PSI), where electron transfer occurs down both parallel redox-active cofactor branches, there is greater protein−cofactor asymmetry between the PSII RC core polypeptides (D1 and D2). We have focused on the identification of protein−cofactor relationships that determine the branch along which primary charge separation occurs (P680+/pheophytin−(Pheo)). We have previously shown that mutagenesis of the strong hydrogen-bonding residue, D1-E130, to less polar residues (D1-E130Q,H,L) shifted the midpoint potential of the PheoD1/PheoD1− couple to more negative values, reducing the quantum yield of primary charge separation. We did not observe, however, electron transfer down the inactive branch in D1-E130 mutants. The protein residue corresponding...
Classroom notes An interpretation of the B‐spline in probability

An interpretation of the B‐spline in probability is presented, and it is shown how this result could be useful in teaching.
Is it time to create a World Space Agency

Abstract The end of the Cold War has allowed the proposal for a World Space Agency, originally proposed by the USSR, to be given serious consideration. There are clearly benefits that could accrue from the emergence of such an organization. Nevertheless it would be premature to establish it now. Rather, current efforts should be directed towards fashioning structures and activities that could serve as solid building blocks for a permanent global space institution.
Ketamine patient-controlled analgesia for dysesthetic central pain

Study Design: Case report. Objectives: To describe the first use of intravenous (IV) ketamine as the sole agent in a patient-controlled analgesic delivery system (ie PCA) in a patient with cervical syringomyelia. Setting: A tertiary-care university teaching hospital in New York City. Methods: A 41-year-old tetraplegic female on high-dose opioids suffering from intractable dysesthetic central pain received her best pain relief from a low-dose ketamine infusion after failing trials with multiple neuropathic medications. After several weeks of titrating her infusion rate up and down, she was switched to an IV ketamine PCA device. Results: The patient was maintained on an IV ketamine PCA for almost 1 year under the following settings: 2.7 mg/h basal rate; 2.7 mg/h demand dose; 15 min lockout period. Although she continues to report some pain, it has dramatically decreased since the ketamine PCA was instituted, enabling us to significantly reduce her opioid dosage. Conclusions: Ketamine PCA may be a viable treatment option in patients suffering from intractable central pain. The rationale for this treatment, along with dosing guidelines and possible drawbacks, is discussed.
The Crystal Structure of Benzoylformate Decarboxylase at 1.6 Å Resolution: Diversity of Catalytic Residues in Thiamin Diphosphate-Dependent Enzymes†,‡

The crystal structure of the thiamin diphosphate (ThDP)-dependent enzyme benzoylformate decarboxylase (BFD), the third enzyme in the mandelate pathway of Pseudomonas putida, has been solved by multiple isomorphous replacement at 1.6 A resolution and refined to an R-factor of 15.0% (free R = 18.6%). The structure of BFD has been compared to that of other ThDP-dependent enzymes, including pyruvate decarboxylase. The overall architecture of BFD resembles that of the other family members, and cofactor- and metal-binding residues are well conserved. Surprisingly, there is no conservation of active-site residues not directly bound to the cofactor. The position of functional groups in the active site may be conserved, however. Three classes of metal ions have been identified in the BFD crystal structure: Ca2+ bound to the cofactor in each subunit, Mg2+ on a 2-fold axis of the tetramer, and Ca2+ at a crystal contact. The structure includes a non-proline cis-peptide bond and an unusually long and regular polyprol...