cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increased complexity of Tmem16a/Anoctamin 1 transcript alternative splicing.

Background TMEM16A (Anoctamin 1; ANO1) is an eight transmembrane protein that functions as a calcium-activated chloride channel. TMEM16A in human exhibits alternatively spliced exons (6b, 13 and 15), which confer important roles in the regulation of channel function. Mouse Tmem16a is reported to consist of 25 exons that code for a 956 amino acid protein. In this study our aim was to provide details of mouse Tmem16a genomic structure and to investigate if Tmem16a transcript undergoes alternative splicing to generate channel diversity.
Platinum-Chemotherapy for Advanced Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Upper Urinary Tract

Objective To report the results of platinumbased chemotherapy used at one medical center in patients with advanced transitional cell carcinomas (TCCs) of the upper urinary tract. Material and Methods Between July 1981 and February 1993, 28 patients (mean age, 59.3 years) with advanced TCC of the upper urinary tract received cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Of the 28 patients, 14 received a median of 4 cycles of cisplatin, methotrexate, and vinblastine sulfate, 8 received a median of 4.5 cycles of methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin hydrochloride, and cisplatin, 5 received a median of 5 cycles of etoposide and cisplatin, and 1 was treated with 7 cycles of only cisplatin. Overall survival estimates were constructed from nonparametric analysis with the Kaplan-Meier method. Results The overall response rate (partial and complete) to chemotherapy was 54%. The most responsive metastatic sites were the lung and lymph nodes—78 and 47% overall response rate, respectively. The estimated median duration of survival for the entire study group was 14 months. In the study population, only three patients were long-term survivors. A significant survival advantage was noted only in the few patients (with limited metastatic tumor volume) who had a complete response to therapy. Initial dose reductions in chemotherapy because of decreased baseline renal function were necessary in 79% of the patients. Conclusion Removal of the primary lesion in the presence of metastatic or locally advanced disease does not apparently improve chemotherapy response rates or patient survival. In addition, many patients do not receive optimal dosing of systemic chemotherapy after nephrectomy. Therefore, by avoiding dose modifications, the overall response rates and survival may conceivably be improved. A diagnostic biopsy or nephron-sparing surgical procedure and neoadjuvant systemic therapy may be considered in patients with advanced TCC at the time of initial assessment in order to allow optimal dosing of chemotherapy.
Phialophora dermatitidis; Its morphology and biology

Isolates of Phialophora dermatitidis obtained from human infections of the skin and underlying organs were divided into 2 morphologic types on the basis of their colony appearance and microscopic properties. The virulence of these fungi was established for normal and predisposed mice, and their ability to invade different organs determined by isolation data and by histopathology. All strains studied were neurotropic. Using the broth dilution technique, Amphotericin B was found to be fungicidal at levels of 2·5 μg./ml. and 5·0 μg./ml. depending upon the length of exposure to the drug. The taxonomic status of the fungi is reviewed with the recommendation that the species be retained in the genus Phialophora.
Decentralization in the Hartford, Connecticut, Metropolitan Region, 1900-2000

Decentralization, the intrametropolitan movement of people and activity away from dense centers toward less developed suburbs, occurs when dispersive forces are greater than agglomerative forces for any metropolitan area. Two mathematical tools, the regional dispersion index and the Hoover index, are used to measure the movement of population, employment, and retail activity in the Hartford, Connecticut, metropolitan region from 1900 to 2000. The approach used differs from other research in that it does not assume a parametric density function, and it allows decentralization for a multicentered region to be measured. Between 1900 and 1930, population concentrated toward Hartford and other regional centers. The trend reversed around 1940, and for the remainder of the century population decentralized away from both Hartford and regional centers. Economic activity bore the same overall pattern with a lag. The results presented here are consistent with existing theories of decentralization and previous empirical work.
Geothermal elements in lichens of Yellowstone National Park, USA

Abstract Geothermal features (e.g. geysers, fumaroles, vents, and springs) emit gaseous mercury, sulfur and heavy metals and therefore, are natural sources of these elements in the atmosphere. Field studies of heavy metals in lichens in Italy have detected elevated concentrations near geothermal power plants, and have determined that the origin of mercury is from soil degassing, not soil particles. We studied this phenomenon in a geothermal area without power plants to determine the natural levels of mercury and other elements. Two common and abundant species of epiphytic lichens, Bryoria fremontii and Letharia vulpina, were collected at six localities in Yellowstone National Park, USA in 1998 and analyzed for 22 chemical elements. Thirteen elements differed significantly between species. Some elements were significantly higher in the southern part of the park, while others were higher in the north. Levels of most elements were comparable with those in other national parks and wilderness areas in the region, except Hg, which was unusually high. The most likely sources of this element are the geothermal features, which are known emitters of Hg. Multivariate analyses revealed strong positive associations of Hg with S, and negative associations with soil elements, providing strong evidence that the Hg in the lichens is the result of soil degassing of elemental Hg rather than particulate Hg directly from soils. Average Hg levels in the lichens were 140 p.p.b. in Bryoria and 110 p.p.b. in Letharia, but maxima were 291 and 243 p.p.b., respectively. In spite of this, both species were healthy and abundant throughout the park.
Increased Clusterin Expression in Fuchs’ Endothelial Dystrophy

Purpose To investigate the differential expression of the glycoprotein clusterin/apoJ (CLU) in normal and Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy (FED) corneal endothelium and to compare the expression of various forms of CLU in normal and FED tissue.
Inhibition of ADP-induced platelet activation by 7-chloro-4-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazole: covalent modification of aggregin, a putative ADP receptor.

ADP-induced platelet responses play an important role in the maintenance of hemostasis. There has been disagreement concerning the identity of an ADP receptor on the platelet surface. The chemical structure of 7-chloro-4-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazole (NBD-Cl) shows considerable resemblance to that of the adenine moiety of adenine-based nucleotides. The reagent has been previously used by other investigators as an affinity label for adenine nucleotide-requiring enzymes, such as mitochondrial ATPase and the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Since ADP-induced platelet responses depend on the binding of ADP to its receptor, we investigated the effect on ADP-induced platelet responses and the nature of ADP-binding protein modified by NBD-Cl. NBD-Cl inhibited ADP-induced shape change and aggregation of platelets in platelet-rich plasma in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. NBD-Cl also inhibited ADP-induced shape change, aggregation, exposure of fibrinogen binding sites, secretion, and calcium mobilization in washed platelets. NBD-Cl did not act as an agonist for platelet shape change and aggregation. Covalent modification of platelets by NBD-Cl blocked the ability of ADP to antagonize the increase in intracellular levels of cAMP mediated by iloprost (a stable analogue of prostaglandin I2). NBD-Cl was quite specific in inhibiting platelet aggregation by those agonists, e.g., ADP, collagen, and U44619 (a thromboxane mimetic), that completely or partially depend on the binding of ADP to its receptor. Autoradiogram of the gel obtained by SDS-PAGE of solubilized platelets modified by [14C]-NBD-Cl showed the presence of a predominant radiolabeled protein band at 100 kDa corresponding to aggregin, a putative ADP receptor. The intensity of this band was considerably decreased when platelets were either preincubated with ADP and ATP or covalently modified by a sulfhydryl group modifying reagent before modification by [14C]-NBD-Cl. These results (1) indicate that covalent modification of aggregin by NBD-Cl contributed to loss of the ADP-induced platelet responses, and (2) suggest that there is a sulfhydryl group in the ADP-binding domain of aggregin. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Asbestos cytotoxicity in a long term macrophage-like cell culture

ASBESTOS is well documented as a carcinogen and cocarcinogen in man and experimental animals, and malignancy may appear after exposure to small amounts. In people who have worked with asbestos insulation there has often been a lag of 20 yr between the first exposure and the development of neoplasia. Among these workers a high incidence of carcinoma of the lung and a high frequency of the rare neoplasm mesothelioma has been reported1. The risk of death from lung cancer is 92 times greater for an asbestos worker who smokes than for someone who is statistically comparable and neither smokes nor works with asbestos. The additive effect of smoking and exposure to asbestos is much greater than that of either factor alone, indicating a cocarcinogenic effect2. Exposure to asbestos is not confined to the occupational environment, for asbestos is present in the air of 49 cities in the USA, in some talcum powders and gypsum spackles and in about 400 industrial products3. As the initial in vivo response to asbestos involves uptake by host macrophages4, we have quantified the effects of standard Union Internationale centre le Cancer (UICC) reference samples of amosite and chrysotdle B asbestos in vitro on the P388D1 line of malignant cells. These cells have macrophage-like characteristics5, but, unlike fresh culture systems, they are capable of reproduction and make long term experimentation possible. We found that asbestos toxicity could be measured as a function of the percentage of cells associated with fibres. Chrysotile was more toxic per unit weight than amosite because it had more fibres per unit weight that could become associated with cells.
Habitat Selection by Nutria in a Freshwater Louisiana Marsh

Eleven Myocastor coypus (Nutria) were implanted with radiotransmitters and monitored on a freshwater fl oating marsh. I evaluated the habitat selection of these individuals at three scales. I examined patterns of second- and third-order selection (macrohabitat) using a vegetation-cover map and Nutria movement data. There was no difference between habitat proportions found in the study area overall versus those of individual Nutria home ranges (second-order of selection) nor between proportions within individual home ranges versus habitat coded Nutria location points (third-order selection). To evaluate fourth-order habitat selection (microhabitat), I compared plant species relative abundances by biomass and diversity indices between random samples taken throughout the available study area and plant samples taken at each Nutria loca- tion. During the colder winter months, Nutria appeared to be selecting areas with plant species that offered structure and protection from the elements. In contrast, during the spring and summer months, Nutria selected areas characterized by thin-mat and fl oating aquatic species that facilitated access to open water.
A Generalized Constraint Model for Two-Dimensional Beam Flexures: Nonlinear Load-Displacement Formulation

To utilize beam flexures in constraint-based flexure mechanism design, it is important to develop qualitative and quantitative understanding of their constraint characteristics in terms of stiffness and error motions. This paper provides a highly generalized yet accurate closed-form parametric load-displacement model for two-dimensional beam flexures, taking into account the nonlinearities arising from load equilibrium applied in the deformed configuration. In particular, stiffness and error motions are parametrically quantified in terms of elastic, load-stiffening, kinematic, and elastokinematic effects. The proposed beam constraint model incorporates a wide range of loading conditions, boundary conditions, initial curvature, and beam shape. The accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed beam constraint model is verified by nonlinear finite elements analysis.
Simulating Pliocene warmth and a permanent El Niño‐like state: The role of cloud albedo

Available evidence suggests that during the early Pliocene (4–5 Ma) the mean east-west sea surface temperature (SST) gradient in the equatorial Pacific Ocean was significantly smaller than today, possibly reaching only 1–2°C. The meridional SST gradients were also substantially weaker, implying an expanded ocean warm pool in low latitudes. Subsequent global cooling led to the establishment of the stronger, modern temperature gradients. Given our understanding of the physical processes that maintain the present-day cold tongue in the east, warm pool in the west and hence sharp temperature contrasts, determining the key factors that maintained early Pliocene climate still presents a challenge for climate theories and models. This study demonstrates how different cloud properties could provide a solution. We show that a reduction in the meridional gradient in cloud albedo can sustain reduced meridional and zonal SST gradients, an expanded warm pool and warmer thermal stratification in the ocean, and weaker Hadley and Walker circulations in the atmosphere. Having conducted a range of hypothetical modified cloud albedo experiments, we arrive at our Pliocene simulation, which shows good agreement with proxy SST data from major equatorial and coastal upwelling regions, the tropical warm pool, middle and high latitudes, and available subsurface temperature data. As suggested by the observations, the simulated Pliocene-like climate sustains a robust El Nino-Southern Oscillation despite the reduced mean east-west SST gradient. Our results demonstrate that cloud albedo changes may be a critical element of Pliocene climate and that simulating the meridional SST gradient correctly is central to replicating the geographical patterns of Pliocene warmth.
Inverted charmed meson multiplets as a test for scalar confinement

Abstract It is shown that an effective quark-antiquark confining force, transformation as a Lorenzt scalar, leads to inverted P-wave multiplets of charmed and bottom mesons. This prediction is a qualitative feature due to a kinematical enhancement of a long-range effective scalar exchange relative to the short-range vector exchange, and is not overly sensitive to quantitative details. The discovery of such inverted meson multiplets would provide dramatic confirmation of scalar quark confinement.
Grammatical Aspect Is a Strength in the Language Comprehension of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Purpose The comprehension of tense/aspect morphology by children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was assessed via Intermodal Preferential Looking (IPL) to determine whether this population's di...
Inhalation toxicity of hexamethylphosphoramide.

(1975). Inhalation toxicity of hexamethylphosphoramide. American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal: Vol. 36, No. 12, pp. 916-919.
TUMOR VOLUME CHANGES ON SERIAL IMAGING WITH MEGAVOLTAGE CT FOR NON-SMALL-CELL LUNG CANCER DURING INTENSITY- MODULATED RADIOTHERAPY: HOW RELIABLE, CONSISTENT, AND MEANINGFUL IS THE EFFECT?

Purpose: Adaptive radiotherapy allows treatment plan modification based on data obtained during treatment. Assessing volume changes during treatment is now possible with intratreatment imaging capabilities on radiotherapy devices. This study assesses non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) volume changes during treatment with conformal intensity-modulated radiotherapy by evaluating serial megavoltage computed tomography (MVCT) scans, with a specific emphasis on the frequency, reliability, and meaningfulness of these changes. Methods and Materials: Megavoltage CTs were retrospectively reviewed for 25 patients treated with the TomoTherapy Hi-Art system at the University of Wisconsin. Twenty-one patients received definitive radiotherapy, 4 with extracranial stereotactic radioablation (60 Gy in five fractions) and 17 on a dose-per-fraction escalation protocol (57–80.5 Gy in 25 fractions). Four patients were treated palliatively (22–30 Gy in 8 to 10 fractions). Gross tumor volumes were contoured on serial MVCTs at weekly intervals. Each patient had 4 to 25 scans, including at least one at the beginning, midway, and one at the end of treatment. Results: At completion of treatment, no patient demonstrated a complete response. Partial response occurred in 3 (12%) and marginal response was noted in 5 (20%). The remaining 17 patients (68%) showed stable disease. The minimum “scorable threshold” for volume discrepancy between scans to account for interscan assessment variability was set at >25% volume change; 10 patients (40%) had >25% tumor regression. None of the patients treated ablatively or palliatively showed tumor regression during treatment. Conclusions: Although gross tumor regression during treatment may be objectively measured using MVCTs, substantial volumetric decrease occurs only in a minority. The clinical significance of this regression is questionable, because there is no way to document histologic tumor clearance, and therefore field reductions during radiotherapy cannot be recommended.
Brain energy state and lactate metabolism during status epilepticus in the neonatal dog: in vivo 31P and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance study.

The purpose of these experiments was to determine whether flurothyl-induced status epilepticus causes progressive decline of brain high-energy phosphates and progressive increase in brain lactate in neonatal dogs who are paralyzed and oxygenated. In vivo 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic measurements showed that the fall in brain pH occurred early in the course of seizure. The decline in phosphocreatine was more gradual, i.e. 50% reduction, during the 1st h of seizure. There was no reduction in ATP during the 3 h of status epilepticus. In vivo 1H nuclear magnetic resonance measurement of brain lactate disclosed a steep rise that stabilized by 60 min. Brain and blood lactate were closely related during the initial phase of seizure, suggesting rapid efflux of lactate from brain or systemic production of lactate. Blood lactate exceeded brain lactate after 1 h of status epilepticus. The new steady state for cerebral phosphocreatine and lactate during status epilepticus was achieved much more slowly during neonatal status epilepticus than has been reported during status epilepticus in the adult experimental animal. The lack of change in ATP during 3 h of seizure indicates that brain energy state is not radically altered during prolonged seizure if oxygenation is maintained.
Real-time 3D target tracking and localization for arbitrary camera geometries

In this paper, we present a real-time 3-D tracking system which using two cameras with substantially arbitrary geometries. The primary goal of the proposed system is to capture incoming stereo vision feeds, examine and compare targets across the cameras, and using a derived camera calibration matrix, project them in real-world 3-D coordinates, in real time. The system is divided into two main components: Camera calibration, and tracking and cross-camera object matching. In the proposed system, algorithms such as 8-point feature matching form the basis for the camera calibration/pose estimation mechanism, while color histogram forms a robust feature for tracking across-camera The proposed system is robust and applicable to heterogeneous moving objects such as people, vehicles, and boats.
Paleoecology and ecosystem restoration: case studies from Chesapeake Bay and the Florida Everglades

Climate extremes that cause droughts, floods, or large temperature fluctuations can complicate ecosystem restoration efforts focused on local and regional human disturbance. Restoration targets are often based primarily on monitoring data and modeling simulations, which provide information on species' short-term response to disturbance and environmental variables. Consequently, the targets may be unsustainable under the spectrum of natural variability inherent in the system or under future climate change. Increasingly, ecologists and restoration planners recognize the value of the long temporal perspective provided by paleoecological data. Advances in paleoclimatology, including better climate proxy methods and temporal resolution, contribute to our understanding of ecosystem response to anthropogenic and climatic forcing at all time scales. We highlight paleoecological research in the Chesapeake Bay and the Florida Everglades and summarize the resulting contributions to restoration planning. Integration of paleoecological, historic, monitoring, and modeling efforts will lead to the development of sustainable, adaptive management strategies for ecosystem restoration.
1,3-Diacylglycerol and 1,2-diacylglycerol types of multiacylglycerol in stigma lipids of tobacco

The 1, 3-diacylglycerol and 1, 2-diacylglycerol types of multiacylglycerol were first isolated from the stigmas of Nicotiana tabacum (Bright Yellow). These multiacylglycerols were separated into more than five spots, such as tri-, tetra-, penta-, hexa- and heptaacylglycerol. The main hydroxy fatty acids of these two types of multiacylglycerol were C18:1-ω-hydroxy and C18:2-ω-hydroxy fatty acids. The terminal OH groups of these fatty acids were all esterified with other fatty acids
Adolescent Brain Development and Animal Models

Research examining brain development during adolescence is escalating rapidly along multiple dimensions, as illustrated by the remarkable diversity of trans-disciplinary work shown in this symposium. Ontogenetic transitions characteristics of adolescence are common among mammalian species. Although no other species demonstrates the full complexity of brain and behavioral function seen in human adolescents, adolescence appears to be a highly conserved developmental stage, its characteristics sculpted to meet common evolutionary pressures that include the avoidance of inbreeding at this time of sexual emergence. Numerous similarities are found between human adolescents and adolescents of other species in terms of developmental history and genetic constraints, as well as neurobehavioral and physiological characteristics. These similarities provide face and construct validity to support use of animal models as tools for the study of adolescence and the unique opportunities and vulnerabilities afforded by this developmental transition.
Sex chromosomes, recombination, and chromatin conformation

We review what is known about the transcriptional inactivation and condensation of heteromorphic sex chromosomes in contrast to the activation of homomorphic sex chromosomes during meiotic prephase in animals. We relate these cytological and transcriptional features to the recombination status of the sex chromosomes. We propose that sex chromosome condensation is a meiotic adaptation to prevent the initiation of potentially damaging recombination events in nonhomologous regions of the X and Y chromosome.
d-q ANALYSIS OF A VARIABLE SPEED DOUBLY AC EXCITED RELUCTANCE MOTOR

ABSTRACT The paper describes a new type of variable speed doubly-fed reluctance machine and presents the model for the analysis of the machine. The stator of the machine is equipped with two sets of sinusoidally distributed windings having pole numbers P1 and P2. The rotor consists of simple saliencies of pole number Pr, which is shown to be constrained to particular values by P1 and P2. A d-q-n model and equivalent circuit is developed for this machine. Simulation results using the new model show that this machine can have the advantages of doubly-fed wound-rotor machine while eliminating the complicated wound rotor, brushes and slip rings normally associated with doubly fed machines.
THE AMBIGUOUS JUVENILE ARREST

Uniformity of juvenile arrest definitions and operations was investigated in 49 police stations in rural, suburban, and large urban areas. Data were taken from interviews and questionnaires administered to police chiefs, clerks, and officers, as well as from on-site observations. The meaning of a juvenile arrest was found to vary widely and to reflect poorly the statutory requirements. Greatest uniformity was found among recording clerks. Their practice of recording as an arrest any juvenile brought or cited into the station provides a useful operational definition. Implications of these data for uniform crime reporting, program evaluation, and equal justice are suggested.
Incompressible surfaces and pseudo-Anosov flows

Abstract As the main result of this paper, we show that any closed surface immersed transverse to a suitable pseudo-Anosov flow on a closed, hyperbolic three-manifold is geometrically infinite if and only if the surface lifts to be an embedded fiber in a finite cover in which the flow lifts to be the suspension flow. This is an extension of results known for surfaces immersed in bundles (Cooper et al., 1994).
A comparative analysis of 3D conformal deep inspiratory–breath hold and free-breathing intensity-modulated radiation therapy for left-sided breast cancer

Patients undergoing radiation for left-sided breast cancer have increased rates of coronary artery disease. Free-breathing intensity-modulated radiation therapy (FB-IMRT) and 3-dimensional conformal deep inspiratory-breath hold (3D-DIBH) reduce cardiac irradiation. The purpose of this study is to compare the dose to organs at risk in FB-IMRT vs 3D-DIBH for patients with left-sided breast cancer. Ten patients with left-sided breast cancer had 2 computed tomography scans: free breathing and voluntary DIBH. Optimization of the IMRT plan was performed on the free-breathing scan using 6 noncoplanar tangential beams. The 3D-DIBH plan was optimized on the DIBH scan and used standard tangents. Mean volumes of the heart, the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), the total lung, and the right breast receiving 5% to 95% (5% increments) of the prescription dose were calculated. Mean volumes of the heart and the LAD were lower (p<0.05) in 3D-DIBH for volumes receiving 5% to 80% of the prescription dose for the heart and 5% for the LAD. Mean dose to the LAD and heart were lower in 3D-DIBH (p≤0.01). Mean volumes of the total lung were lower in FB-IMRT for dose levels 20% to 75% (p<0.05), but mean dose was not different. Mean volumes of the right breast were not different for any dose; however, mean dose was lower for 3D-DIBH (p = 0.04). 3D-DIBH is an alternative approach to FB-IMRT that provides a clinically equivalent treatment for patients with left-sided breast cancer while sparing organs at risk with increased ease of implementation.
Evaluation of the femoral midshaft in children with cerebral palsy using magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging was used to show that children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy and unable to ambulate independently compared to typically developing children have a remarkably underdeveloped femoral midshaft as indicated by a very thin diameter, a very thin cortical wall, and very low strength estimates. The femoral shaft is very susceptible to fracture in children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy (QCP); however, its structure and strength have not been evaluated. The volume and width of the middle third of the femur (midfemur) and its cortical wall and medullary cavity were assessed in children with QCP and unable to ambulate independently and typically developing children (n = 10/group) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Estimates of cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), section modulus (Z), and polar moment of inertia (J) were also determined. Total volume of the midfemur and volume of its cortical wall and medullary cavity were substantially lower in children with QCP than controls (51–55%; p < 0.001). In addition, the total midfemur, its medullary cavity and the anterior, posterior, and lateral sections of its cortical wall were thinner (27–43%) in children with QCP (p < 0.001). The midfemur in children with QCP also had remarkably lower CSMI, Z, and J (60–71%; p < 0.001). Children with QCP who lack the ability to ambulate independently have midfemurs that are very thin with very thin cortical walls and very low estimated strength. The disparity can be detected using MRI.
On the Existence of “Sub-Bands” in the Luminescence Emission Spectrum of Manganese Activated Zinc Silicate*

Failure of the luminescence decay of manganese-activated zinc silicate to follow an exact exponential curve has been cited as evidence for the presence of two different emitting centers with different decay rates. However, the shapes of the spectral emission curves taken at different times after excitation are identical, showing that if two centers exist their emissions are the same. The luminescence emission of this phosphor has also been measured at 4°K and shows a single peak a few hundred angstroms wide. There is little observed change in the emission between 90°K and 4°K. The width of the room temperature emission is therefore the result of the temperature-broadening of an already broad band. No experimental evidence is found for bands predicted on the assumption that emission spectra are formed by the superposition of bands having the shape of Gauss error curves. Theoretical work on the shape of emission and absorption bands is reviewed and does not support the Gauss error curve theory.
Probabilistic risk assessment for wildfires

SUMMARY Forest fires are an important societal problem. They cause extensive damage and substantial funds are spent preparing for and fighting them. This work develops a stochastic model useful for probabilistic risk assessment, specifically to estimate chances of fires at a future time given explanatory variables. Questions of interest include: Are random effects needed in the risk model? and if yes, How is the analysis to be implemented? An exploratory data analysis approach is taken using both fixed and random effects models for data concerning the Federal Lands in the state of California during the period 2000–2003. Published in 2006 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copper and rhenium complexes of abis(aminoethanethiol) ligand

Abstract Bis(aminoethanethiol) (BAT) ligands, containing the N2S2donor atom set, react with transition metal ions to form complexes with a variety of coordination geometries. The reaction of CuCl2 with the ligand, BAT-TECH, results in reduction of some of the copper (II) centers to copper(I) and formation of a mixed valent pentamer. The reaction of a [ReVO]3 reagent with the ligand results in two constitutional isomers, both with distorted square pyramidal coordination geometry. One molecule (A) has an amine group α to the cyclohexyl substituent and an amide group in the remote position. The other molecule (B) has the amide group α to the cyclohexylgroup and the amine group in the remote position. The two species apparently persist in CH3CN solution at room temperature.
Clopidogrel and the reduced-function CYP2C19 genetic variant: a limited piece of the overall therapeutic puzzle.

FFECTIVE PLATELET INHIBITION HAS BECOME A CORnerstone in the management of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The addition of clopidogrel to aspirin has provided significant reductions in major cardiovascular events in patients with ACS in general, and particularly among those treated invasively by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). 1 Yet studies have demonstrated that the therapeutic response of clopidogrel is variable among patients, 2 and low or incomplete platelet inhibition has been associated with increased risk
Regulation of Hex Gene Expression by a Smads-dependent Signaling Pathway

The homeobox gene Hex is expressed in multiple cell types during embryogenesis and is required for liver and monocyte development. Hex is expressed in the foregut region of late gastrula avian and mammalian embryos in a pattern that overlaps with expression of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Here we investigate the relationship between BMP signaling and Hex gene expression. We find that Hex expression in avian anterior lateral endoderm is regulated by autocrine BMP signaling. Characterization of the mouse Hex gene promoter identified a 71-nucleotide BMP-responsive element (BRE) that is required for up-regulation of Hex by an activated BMP signaling pathway. The Hex BRE binds Smad4 and Smad1-Smad4 complexes in vitro, and in transfection assays, it is responsive to Smad1 and Smad4 but not to Smad2 and Smad4 or Smad3 and Smad4. The BRE contains two copies of a GCCGnCGC-like motif that in Drosophila is the binding site for Mad and Madea followed by two CAGAG boxes that are similar to sequences required for transforming growth factor-beta/activin responsiveness of several vertebrate genes. Mutation of the GC elements, but not the two CAGAG boxes, abolishes Smads responsiveness in the intact Hex promoter, whereas mutations in both the GC elements and CAGAG boxes show that they act cooperatively to confer Smads responsiveness to the Hex promoter. The Hex BRE can confer Smads responsiveness to a heterologous promoter, and in this context, both the GC-rich elements and the CAGAG boxes are required for Smads-dependent promoter activity. An element almost identical to the Hex BRE is present within the BMP-responsive Nkx2-5 gene promoter, suggesting that the Hex BRE represents a common response element for genes regulated by BMP signaling in the foregut region of the embryo.
A Versatile Integrated Circuit for the Acquisition of Biopotentials

Electrically active cells in the body produce a wide variety of voltage signals that are useful for medical diagnosis and scientific investigation. These biopotentials span a wide range of amplitudes and frequencies. We have developed a versatile front-end integrated circuit that can be used to amplify many types of bioelectrical signals. The 0.6-mum CMOS chip contains 16 fully-differential amplifiers with gains of 46 dB, 2mu Vrms input-referred noise, and bandwidths programmable from 10 Hz to 10 kHz.
Numerical integration of related Hankel transforms by quadrature and continued fraction expansion

An algorithm is presented for the accurate evaluation of Hankel (or Bessel) transforms of algebraically related kernel functions, defined here as the non-Bessel function portion of the integrand, that is more widely applicable than the standard digital filter methods without enormous increases in computational burden. The algorithm performs the automatic integration of the product of the kernel and Bessel functions between the asymptotic zero crossings of the latter and sums the series of partial integrations using a continued fraction expansion, equivalent to an analytic continuation of the series. The integrands may be saved to allow the rapid computation of related transforms without recalculating the kernel or Bessel functions, and the integration steps use interlacing quadrature formulas so that no function evaluations are wasted when it is necessary to increase the order of the quadrature rule. The continued fraction algorithm allows very slowly divergent or even formally divergent integrals to be computed quite easily. The local error is controlled at each step in the algorithm, and accuracy is limited largely by machine resolution. The algorithm is written in Fortran and is listed in an Appendix along with a driver program that illustrates its features. The driver program and subroutine are available from the SEG Business Offtce.
Communication and Special Health Care Needs of a Profoundly Hearing Impaired Adolescent

This report describes the authors' experience in providing medical and contraceptive care to a profoundly hearing impaired adolescent in a hospital setting. Ways to communicate effectively with the hearing impaired are described.
Uterine fibroid embolization: a viable alternative to hysterectomy

Benign uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are the most common tumors found in gynecologic practice. Symptomatic fibroids present with menorrhagia, pelvic pain, leukorrhea, pressure and bloating, increased abdominal girth, and severe dysmenorrhea. Traditional treatment has relied on surgery because long-term medical therapies have demonstrated only minimal response. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) using particulate emboli to occlude the uterine arteries, thereby disrupting the blood supply to fibroids and leading to devascularization and infarction, has been reported to be effective in alleviating fibroid-related symptoms. UFE is a safe, effective, and durable nonsurgical alternative to hysterectomy.
Interventional EUS-guided cholangiography: evaluation of a technique in evolution.

Background Interventional EUS-guided cholangiography (IEUC) has been increasingly used as an alternative to percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) in cases of biliary obstruction when ERCP is unsuccessful. Objective We reviewed our experience and technique used for this procedure. Design Over a 3-year period, ending July 2005, patients with a failed ERCP were offered an IEUC. Setting Tertiary care center offering ERCP and interventional EUS. Patients Twenty-eight patients were candidates for IEUC. Two patients had bleeding masses and were referred to interventional radiology, 1 patient had a large mass occupying the duodenal lumen, and 2 patients refused IEUC. Intervention EUS was used to access the biliary system after which a guidewire was advanced antegrade across the obstruction. Either rendezvous with retrograde or antegrade drainage was then accomplished. Main Outcome Measurements Efficacy and safety of IEUC for biliary decompression. Results IEUC was successfully performed in 23 patients, with a transgastric-transhepatic (intrahepatic) approach in 13 cases and transenteric-transcholedochal (extrahepatic) approach in 10 cases. Therapeutic benefit was achieved in 21 patients: 18 underwent successful stent deployment across the stricture, whereas 3 patients required a choledochoenteric fistula formation. Complications included 1 case of bile leak, 2 cases of self-limited pneumoperitoneum, and 1 case of minor bleeding. Limitations Single-center experience of 2 operators. Conclusions IEUC appears efficacious in patients in whom ERCP is unsuccessful and is evolving as an attractive alternative to PTC. Intrahepatic access to the biliary system appears safer than the extrahepatic approach.
Understanding the determinants of patient satisfaction with surgical care using the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems surgical care survey (S-CAHPS)

Background Patient satisfaction has been emphasized increasingly in all aspects of medicine, including the imposition of financial penalties for underperformance. Current measures of patient satisfaction, however, do not address aspects specific to the care of operative patients. Therefore, our aim was to examine the recently validated Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (S-CAHPS) to determine which aspects of perioperative care are predictive of satisfaction with the surgeon. Methods All patients undergoing a general surgery operation at our institution during a 5-month period were sent a modified S-CAHPS within 3 days of discharge. Patients were then divided into 2 groups: those who rated their surgeon as the best possible and those giving a lower rating. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine predictors of satisfaction with operative care. S-CAHPS results were then compared with other satisfaction measures in a subset of patients. Results The response rate was 45.3% (456/1,007). The average age was 59 ± 16 years, duration of stay was 4.1 ± 6.6 days, and 23% underwent unscheduled operations. A total of 72% of patients rated their surgeon as the best surgeon possible. On multivariate analysis, preoperative communication and attentiveness on the day of operation were the most important determinants of overall surgeon rating. S-CAHPS scores correlated with other standard measures of satisfaction (HCAHPS scores). Conclusion S-CAHPS is a novel operative satisfaction tool and is feasible to administer to patients undergoing general operative procedures. Surgeon characteristics most predictive of high patient satisfaction are effective preoperative communication and attentiveness on the day of operation.
A HIERARCHICAL APPROACH FOR DESIGN AND ASSEMBLY OF MECHANISMS

We introduce a hierarchical approach for the analysis and design of systems with multiple frictional contacts, with a focus on applications to the design of part feeding and assembly processes. The simplest model in the hierarchy is the geometric model described by a set of non-penetration constraints that depends only on the geometry of the design. The model with the highest fidelity is one that incorporates rigid body dynamics, joint constraints, and frictional contacts. Our approach is based on a scheme that first uses Rapidly-exploring Random Trees (RRTs) to explore and prune the feasible set of design parameters. The next step is to redesign the system iteratively with the pruned parameter set using a model with higher fidelity. This process is repeated with improved models, until an optimal design is obtained with the model of desired fidelity. We illustrate the models, the design process, and the feasibility of this hierarchical approach by applying it to the design of a simple part feeder.
Use of the Mechanical In-Exsufflator in Pediatric Patients With Neuromuscular Disease and Impaired Cough

Background Impaired cough secondary to weakness from neuromuscular disease (NMD) can cause serious respiratory complications, including atelectasis, pneumonia, small airway obstruction, and acidosis. The mechanical in-exsufflator (MI-E) delivers a positive-pressure insufflation followed by an expulsive exsufflation, thereby simulating a normal cough. Use of the MI-E in adults with impaired cough results in improved cough flows and enhanced airway clearance. However, only limited reports of MI-E use in children exist. Objective To determine the safety, tolerance, and effectiveness of the MI-E in a pediatric population. Method Retrospective medical record review. Participants Sixty-two patients (34 male patients) observed in a pediatric pulmonary program with NMD and impaired cough in whom MI-E therapy was initiated. Median age at initiation of MI-E use was 11.3 years (range, 3 months to 28.6 years). Diagnoses included the following: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (17 patients); spinal muscular atrophy, types I and II (21 patients); myopathy (12 patients); other nonspecific NMD (12 patients). Mechanical ventilation via tracheostomy was used in 29 patients, and 25 patients used noninvasive ventilation. Results The median duration of use was 13.4 months (range, 0.5 to 45.5 months). One infant died before using MI-E at home. Five patients chose not to continue MI-E therapy. Complications were reported in two patients, but ultimately they used the MI-E device. Chronic atelectasis resolved in four patients after beginning MI-E therapy, and five patients experienced a reduction in the frequency of pneumonias. Conclusion In 90% of our study population, the use of an MI-E was safe, well-tolerated, and effective in preventing pulmonary complications.
Care of the dying in long-term care settings.

Long-term care (LTC) facilities provide care to many dying people. In the United States, 43% of people who reach age 65 can expect to spend time in a LTC facility, and more than one half of people who are admitted to a LTC facility will die there.15,20,35 The mortality rate for LTC residents is approximately 25% per year.17 Few die during hospitalization; 66% to 80% of residents’ deaths occur in nursing home^.'^,'^ Long-term care residents die ”at home,” yet in an institutional setting with intensive regulatory oversight. At least 60% of nursing home residents have diseases causing permanent cognitive impairment; therefore, most residents in LTC facilities lack decisional capacity.38 Professional caregivers and family members together become the primary decision makers. A team of caregivers replaces the traditional physician-patient dyad of acute care or the family providing care at home. Nurses and nursing assistants have the primary responsibility for bedside assessment and care. Physicians often come to the facility weekly or monthly but may see a particular patient at 3-month intervals. The involvement of family members varies. Many LTC residents benefit from daily family visitors, but some residents have moved to a facility precisely because they lack physical or social support from family. This article provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities of certified nursing assistants, nurses, and physicians who provide care to residents dying in LTC facilities. Drawing on a study using focus group
State of the art of DC components for secondary power distribution of Space Station Freedom

120 V DC secondary power distribution has been selected for Space Station Freedom. State-of-the art components and subsystems are examined in terms of performance, size, and topology. One of the objectives of this work is to inform the users of Space Station Freedom what is available in power supplies and power control devices. The other objective is to stimulate interest in the component industry so that more focused product development can be started. Based on results of this study, it is estimated that, with some redesign, modifications, and space qualification, many of these components may be applied to Space Station Freedom needs. >
Small-sample confidence regions in exponential families

This article presents an algorithm for small-sample conditional confidence regions for two or more parameters for any discrete regression model in the generalized linear interactive model family. Regions are constructed by careful inversion of conditional hypothesis tests. This method presupposes the use of approximate or exact techniques for enumerating the sample space for some components of the vector of sufficient statistics conditional on other components. Such enumeration may be performed exactly or by exact or approximate Monte Carlo, including the algorithms of Kolassa and Tanner (1994, Journal of the American Statistical Association 89, 697-702; 1999, Biometrics 55, 246-251). This method also assumes that one can compute certain conditional probabilities for a fixed value of the parameter vector. Because of a property of exponential families, one can use this set of conditional probabilities to directly compute the conditional probabilities associated with any other value of the vector of the parameters of interest. This observation dramatically reduces the computational effort required to invert the hypothesis test to obtain the confidence region. To construct a region with confidence level 1 - alpha, the algorithm begins with a grid of values for the parameters of interest. For each parameter vector on the grid (corresponding to the current null hypothesis), one transforms the initial set of conditional probabilities using exponential tilting and then calculates the p value for this current null hypothesis. The confidence region is the set of parameter values for which the p value is at least alpha.
The Performance Characteristics of Geometrically Similar Bistable Amplifiers

Abstract : The results of a comprehensive study of the comparative performance characteristics of geometrically similar vented and unvented bistable amplifiers, together with their actual dimensions, are presented. The Reynolds number in the tests ramged from 9,750 to 60,000, Mach number from 0.07 to 0.42, and the power jet velocity from 75 to 460 ft/sec. Each amplifier as conceived and designed was capable of giving a maximum of geometric flexibility which enabled a systematic evaluation of the shape and location of the splitter plate and Coanda walls. (Author)