cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Scrapie and Transmissible Mink Encephalopathy in Hamsters. II. Clinical Signs, Pathology, and Pathogenesis

Scrapie and transmissible mink encephalopathy were studied in hamsters; clinical signs, pathology, and the replication of the agents of each disease in brain and spleen were compared. The most noticeable clinical sign in scrapie-affected hamsters was a distinct cerebellar ataxia beginning 16 weeks after inoculation. Ataxia was not prominent in animals affected with transmissible mink encephalopathy; these animals gradually became more and more lethargic. The pathology in the central nervous system in both diseases consisted of astrocytic hypertrophy, microvacuolation of the neuropil, and neuronal degeneration. The scrapie agent appeared to have a greater effect on nuclear masses, especially those present in brain stem and the central white matter of the cerebellum. The earliest lesions in both diseases were detected near pia arachnoid surfaces and adjacent to the ventricular system. These initial sites of involvement suggest that the cerebrospinal fluid may be an important route by which inocula are disseminated to susceptible cells after intracerebral inoculation. Both agents multiplied rapidly in brain, reaching titers > 108 LD50/0.05 ml before the onset of clinical signs. Titers in spleen were 4-6 logs lower than titers in brain at every point measured during the asymptomatic or clinical course of disease.
Reflection of ultrasonic waves from imperfect interfaces: A combined boundary element method and independent scattering model approach

A numerical technique for obtaining interface reflection coefficients for imperfect bonds between similar materials for a wide range of distributed defects is developed. A numerical boundary element method is utilized to find the far-field scattering amplitudes of a single defect for a normally incident plane wave. Then, the normal incidence reflection coefficient for a planar distribution of such defects is obtained from the independent scattering model. As a validation, the reflection coefficients are compared to the quasi-static model results where the latter are available. This establishes the basis for one application of the new model, the determination of spring constants which are not available. Other applications of the model, including studies of the response at frequencies beyond the quasi-static limit, the ratio of longitudinal to transverse wave reflectivities, and the effects of selected multiple scattering are discussed.
Battling breast cancer. [Review of: Lerner, BH. The breast cancer wars: hope, fear, and the pursuit of a cure in twentieth-century America. Oxford University Press, 2001].

In 1978 the writer Susan Sontag published her now famous essay, Illness as Metaphor, detailing, she explained, "not what it is really like to emigrate to the kingdom of the ill and live there, but" rather "the punitive or sentimental fantasies concocted about that situation," "not physical illness itself but the uses of illness as a figure or metaphor." Maintaining that the tendency to rely on metaphors to discuss illness and disease was widespread in American culture, Sontag hoped through her essay to provide both "an elucidation of those metaphors, and a liberation from them." Herself a cancer patient, Sontag argued for the abandonment of metaphors in relation to disease and illness. "My point," she declared, "is that illness is not a metaphor, and that the most truthful way of regarding illness-and the healthiest way of being ill-is one most purified of, most resistant to, metaphoric thinking." Having identified Americans' attachment to metaphor in their consideration of disease, Sontag urged them to abandon this approach, citing the damage such metaphors caused in the experiences of cancer patients.' Historians were quick to agree with Sontag's suggestion of the power of metaphors in American thinking about disease and medicine, and since her path-breaking work many scholars have explored the important role played by metaphorical thinking in shaping the history and contemporary experience of disease. This work has been part of a much broader evolution in the history of medicine. Since the 1970s the history of medicine has absorbed many of the sweeping changes affecting the historical discipline more generally. An earlier focus on the great leaders of medicine and a tendency toward hagiography has been replaced by a field diverse in both its subjects and its methodologies. Two trends in particular have wielded profound influences on the field. First, the work of social historians has ensured that many of the previously voiceless have become meaningful actors in the history of medicine. From female physicians to patients and their families, social historians have acknowledged the agency of those once absent from, or
A MEASURE OF CHRONIC ORGANIZATIONAL STRESS

Along with growing knowledge about the impact of stress on individuals has come acknowledgement of the role that chronic stress-the daily grindplays in our lives (Adams, 1978; Lazarus & Folkman, 1984). For many people work is a central part of their existence, and it is no wonder that organizational stress has been the object of considerable study (Lester, 1983; Shirom, 1982). As is typical in an emerging field, researchers have defined and measured the variable of interest in many different ways, making comparabilicy of studies difficult. What is needed is a measure of organizational stress appropriate for use in diverse settings and capable of administration in groups or by mail survey. Adams (1980) developed a 25-item measure of organizational stress based on the research of French and Caplan (1972), but it is intended for use by consultants and trainers, acd there has been no effort to document its reliability or validity. The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument suitable for use by researchers. The Adams (1980) instrument has good face validity and has been shown to be related to illness (Adams, 1978), so it was used as a first version for analysis. A series of pretests led to the elimination of some items and the rewording of others. The resulting scale, called Stress at Work, consisted of 18 five-point Likert-type items. It was administered to 202 full-time employed men and women. Ages ranged from 22 to 65 yr.; 33% were part-time students recruited through an MBA program. The remaining subjects were recruited from departments in local firms. This procedure ensured that a broad variety of individuals and work settings were represented and that it would be possible to test for industry-specific results. Table 1 presents each item in the scale along with its Pearson correlation to the total scale score. It can be seen that these are fairly high and consistent; further evidence of internal consistency is provided by a coefficient alpha (Gonbach, 1951) of 91.
Nonlinear interface shear fracture of end notched flexure specimens

Abstract The nonlinear analytical solutions of an end notched flexure adhesive joint or fracture test specimen with identical or dissimilar adherends are investigated. In the current study, a cohesive zone model (with arbitrary nonlinear cohesive laws) based analytical solution is obtained for the interface shear fracture of an end notched flexure (ENF) specimen with sufficiently long bond length. It is found that the scatter and inconsistency in calculating Mode II toughness may be significantly reduced by this model. The present work indicates that the Mode II toughness G IIc under pure shear cracking condition is indeed very weakly dependent on the initial crack length. And this conclusion is well supported by the experimental results found in the literature. The parametric studies show that the interface shear strength is the most dominant parameter on the critical load. It is also interesting to note that with very short initial crack length and identical interface shear strength, higher Mode II toughness indeed cannot increase the critical load. Unlike the high insensitivity of critical load to the detailed shape of the cohesive law for Mode I peel fracture, the shape of the cohesive law becomes relatively important for the critical load of joints under pure Mode II fracture conditions, especially for joints with short initial crack length. The current study may help researchers deepen the understanding of interface shear fracture and clarify some previous concepts on this fracture mode.
Characterization, Purification, and Reconstitution of an Inducible Cytochrome P450-Dependent Triasulfuron Hydroxylase from Wheat

Abstract This report describes the further purification and characterization as well as the solubilization and reconstitution of an inducible cytochrome P450 monooxygenase responsible for triasulfuron hydroxylation in wheat. Improved procedures for increasing the levels of expressed microsomal cytochrome P450 and triasulfuron hydroxylase activity in etiolated wheat seedling shoot tissues are described. Cytochrome P450 concentrations and triasulfuron hydroxylase activities were increased to 1.17 nmol mg−1 protein and 2.87 nmol min−1 mg−1 protein, respectively, with an improved enzyme assay system and the use of sucrose density gradient-purified microsomal preparations from naphthalic anhydride- and ethanol-induced coleoptile tissues. A pH optimum between 7.0 and 7.5 in potassium phosphate buffer and an apparent Km of 24 μM for triasulfuron were determined. Dependence of triasulfuron hydroxylation on cytochrome P450 was established with cytochrome P450 inhibitors (tetcyclacis, paclobutrazol, and piperonyl butoxide), reduced CO difference spectra, light-reversible CO inhibition, type I substrate and type II inhibitor binding spectra, and by inhibition with polyclonal antibodies raised against a partially purified fraction of wheat NADPH cytochrome c reductase (EC 1.6.2.4). Microsomal NADPH cytochrome c reductase and cytochrome P450 were solubilized with detergent (1% Chaps, v/v), separated by affinity chromatography on 2′,5′ADP-Sepharose 4B, and purified by DEAE ion exchange chromatography. Triasulfuron hydroxylase activity was reconstituted by chromatography of the purified NADPH cytochrome c reductase and cytochrome P450 fractions on hydroxyapatite. In preliminary studies with the reconstituted enzyme system, triasulfuron hydroxylase activity was 6% of the induced microsomal activity.
The Circumstances of Species Replacement Among Parasitic Hymenoptera

Species replacement is most commonly observed among the parasitic Hymenoptera because of their dominance in biological control. Such replacement is necessarily a reproduction phenomenon involving interspecific competition in population-saturated areas. The competitive interactions of parasitic populations are differentiated into two types, “intrinsic” and “extrinsic”, with characteristic conditions and mechanisms.Intrinsic competition consists of interference between individuals of the interacting populations, being manifested by such factors as cannibalism, mutilation, starvation, suffocation, production of toxic or repellent excretions and secretions, and the differential susceptibility of individual hosts to parasitic attack.Extrinsic competition concerns the interaction of populations as groups and is manifested largely by host-habitat finding, host-finding, and host acceptance.Replacement through intrinsic competition takes place regardless of host abundance; replacement by extrinsic competition is an effect of decreased host abundance.
Piezoelectric Thin Film Ultrasonic Micromotors

Thin films of lead zirconate titanate have been fabricated for application to a new family of flexure-wave piezoelectric micromotors that are characterized by low speed and high torque. The high relative dielectric constant and breakdown strength of the films lead to high stored energy densities. Evaluation of the film as a bimorph yielded a value of -88 pC/N for the transverse piezoelectric strain coefficient, d31; the relevant electromechanical coupling factor, k31, calculated thereupon was 0.22. The development of the piezoelectric ultrasonic micromotors from the PZT thin films, and the architecture of the stator structure are described. Nonoptimized prototype micromotors show rotational velocities of 100–300 rpm at drives of 3–5 V.
Partial response to anakinra in life-threatening Henoch-Schönlein purpura: case report

Henoch-Schonlein purpura is one of the most common forms of systemic vasculitis of childhood. We report the response to anakinra, the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, in a 9 year old girl without prior medical problems who developed life-threatening Henoch-Schonlein vasculitis that produced renal failure, pulmonary hemorrhage and vasculitis of the brain. Her response supports the theory that interleukin-1 may be an important mediator in this disease. Further study of interleukin-1 antagonists in severe Henoch-Schonlein purpura may be warranted.
Distortion and regulation characterization of a Mapham inverter

Output-voltage total harmonic distortion (THD) of a 20 kHz, 6 kVA Mapham resonant inverter is characterized as a function of its switching-to-resonant frequency ratio, f/sub s//f/sub r/, using the EASY5 Engineering Analysis System. EASY5 circuit simulation results are compared with hardware test results to verify the accuracy of the simulations. The effects of load on the THD versus f/sub s//f/sub r/ is investigated for resistive, leading, and lagging power factor load impedances. The effect of the series output capacitor on the Mapham inverter output-voltage distortion and inherent load regulation is characterized under loads of various power factors and magnitudes. An optimum series capacitor value which improves the inherent load regulation to better than 3% is identified. A fault protection and current limiting method which allows the Mapham inverter to operate into a short-circuit, even when the inverter resonant circuit becomes overdamped, is discussed. >
Maternal choline supplementation programs greater activity of the phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT) pathway in adult Ts65Dn trisomic mice

Maternal choline supplementation (MCS) induces lifelong cognitive benefits in the Ts65Dn mouse, a trisomic mouse model of Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. To gain insight into the mechanisms underlying these beneficial effects, we conducted a study to test the hypothesis that MCS alters choline metabolism in adult Ts65Dn offspring. Deuterium-labeled methyl-d9-choline was administered to adult Ts65Dn and disomic (2N) female littermates born to choline-unsupplemented or choline-supplemented Ts65Dn dams. Enrichment of d9-choline metabolites (derived from intact choline) and d3 + d6-choline metabolites [produced when choline-derived methyl groups are used by phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT)] was measured in harvested tissues. Adult offspring (both Ts65Dn and 2N) of choline-supplemented (vs. choline-unsupplemented) dams exhibited 60% greater (P≤0.007) activity of hepatic PEMT, which functions in de novo choline synthesis and produces phosphatidylcholine (PC) enriched in docosahexaenoic acid. Higher (P<0.001) enrichment of PEMT-derived d3 and d6 metabolites was detected in liver, plasma, and brain in both genotypes but to a greater extent in the Ts65Dn adult offspring. MCS also yielded higher (P<0.05) d9 metabolite enrichments in liver, plasma, and brain. These data demonstrate that MCS exerts lasting effects on offspring choline metabolism, including up-regulation of the hepatic PEMT pathway and enhanced provision of choline and PEMT-PC to the brain.
How do the properties of a pre-existing normal-fault population influence fault development during a subsequent phase of extension?

Abstract We use scaled experimental (analog) models to investigate how the properties of a population of pre-existing normal faults influence fault development during a subsequent phase of extension. In the models, a homogeneous layer of wet clay undergoes two phases of extension whose extension directions differ by 45°. To vary the properties of the first-phase fault population, we vary the magnitude of the first-phase extension. As the magnitude of the first-phase extension increases, the number, average and maximum length, and average and maximum displacement of the first-phase normal faults increase. For a poorly developed first-phase fault population, new normal faults (which strike perpendicular to the second-phase extension direction) form during the second phase. For a well developed first-phase fault population, many first-phase normal faults are reactivated as oblique-slip faults during the second phase. New normal faults also form; these second-phase normal faults are shorter and have displacement maxima adjacent to the reactivated first-phase faults. They are less likely to cut the pre-existing first-phase faults than second-phase normal faults that form in models with a less developed first-phase fault population. In all models, pre-existing faults serve as nucleation sites for new faults. In models with a well developed first-phase fault population, the pre-existing faults also act as obstacles to the propagation of the second-phase normal faults. Fault geometries in the models vary considerably; parallel, zig-zag, or intersecting fault geometries develop depending on whether the first-phase fault population is poorly, moderately, or well developed, respectively.
Reproductive Behavior and Its Relation To Territoriality in Cal Op Ter Yx Ma Cula Ta (Beauvois) (Odonata: Calopterygidae)

Pair-forming, courtship, mating, and post-copulatory behaviors are described for populations of Calopteryx maculata in the central and northeastern United States. Two pair forming displays were noted: (1) a display of the male's wings and abdomen (the cross display) at an oviposition site in his territory to an approaching female; and (2) a hovering courtship flight before a perching female. Similar displays are performed by C. aequabilis, C. splendens, and C. virgo, although intra- and interspecific variations occur in the cross display and its position in the pair-forming sequence. Both displays present the species and sex-specific color patterns of the male's wings and abdomen to the female early in pair formation. Pair formation differs in the three types of male-female encounters observed: (1) female flies into the male's territory; (2) male discovers an ovipositing female; and (3) male discovers a female on shore. The first type involves only territorial males and is the only one in which the cross display is performed. The other encounters involve both territorial and nonterritorial males. Courtship flight is present in the pair-forming sequences of all three encounter types. The cross display identifies a particular male with an oviposition site in his territory. This makes it possible for females to choose among males on the basis of the suitability of these oviposition sites. Females mating with territorial males benefit from reduced interference from other males during oviposition. The selective advantages of territoriality for a Calopteryx male are: (1) an increase in his mating frequency by the exclusive occupation of an oviposition area attractive to females ; and (2) an increase in the number of eggs he fertilizes by protecting mated females during their oviposition. It is likely that territorial behavior in Calopteryx functions primarily in obtaining and selecting mates and secondarily in reducing interference with pair formation and oviposition. Sexual selection among males for attracting mates and lessening sperm competition may have been an important factor in the evolution of territorial behavior in Calopteryx.
Bridge network performance, maintenance and optimisation under uncertainty: accomplishments and challenges

This article presents a critical review of the state-of-the-art in the field of bridge network performance analysis, reliability assessment, maintenance management and optimisation. Previous accomplishments and results are summarised while stressing the aspects of the analysis of a transportation network, which are more challenging for a structural engineer. For instance, the bridge network is described as a spatially distributed system at a scale that is much larger than any individual structure. This requires a different perspective in the modelling of natural extreme events and involves models for the interaction between the individual components (i.e. bridges) and the overall network. Then, the time domain is investigated, and the problem of structural deterioration and its effects on the network performance are addressed. The most important differences between a transportation network and other lifelines are considered next, and techniques for the transportation network analysis and performance asses...
Nasometric and phototransductive measurements of reaction times among normal adult speakers.

Abstract The temporal relationship among laryngeal, velopharyngeal, and labial activity was investigated by studying the reaction times of eight normal adults. Four female and four male subjects sustained production of the nasal consonant /m/ until a computer-driven imperative tone was presented at which time they were required to say /pl/ as quickly as possible. This task was repeated 30 times for each subject. The offset of voicing at the end of the /m/ and the onset of bilabial plosive release were monitored using a commercially available Nasometer. The onset of velopharyngeal (V-P) movement toward closure and the attainment of closure were monitored using a photodetector system. Across 240 responses, the average latencies were: 146 ms for initiation of V-P movement toward closure, 224 ms for voicing offset, 280 ms for onset of V-P closure and 317 ms for onset of plosive release. The significance of these findings is discussed with respect to speech motor control and the clinical evaluation of patients...
Examination of rock surfaces with the scanning electron microscope

SUMMARY A fracture surface of rock (greywacke) was examined with the scanning electron microscope prior to, and after, surface etching for successively increasing time intervals in 2 m NaOH at 38°C (100°F). The same area of rock was successfully relocated in the microscope so that the effect of the alkali upon minerals and micro-structure could be observed by direct comparison of micrographs. Layer-structure silicates showed exfoliation.
Epigenetic Regulation of ADME-Related Genes: Focus on Drug Metabolism and Transport

Epigenetic regulation of gene expression refers to heritable factors that are functionally relevant genomic modifications but that do not involve changes in DNA sequence. Examples of such modifications include DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNAs, and chromatin architecture. Epigenetic modifications are crucial for packaging and interpreting the genome, and they have fundamental functions in regulating gene expression and activity under the influence of physiologic and environmental factors. Recently, epigenetics has become one of the fastest-growing areas of science and has now become a central issue in biologic studies of development and disease pathogenesis. The interest in epigenetics is also true for studies of drug metabolism and transport. In this issue of Drug Metabolism and Disposition, a series of articles is presented to demonstrate the role of epigenetic factors in regulating the expression of genes involved in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in organ development, tissue-specific gene expression, sexual dimorphism, and in the adaptive response to xenobiotic exposure, both therapeutic and toxic. The articles also demonstrate that, in addition to genetic polymorphisms, epigenetics may also contribute to wide interindividual variations in drug metabolism and transport. Identification of functionally relevant epigenetic biomarkers in human specimens has the potential to improve prediction of drug responses based on patient’s epigenetic profiles.
Theory and design of an orthotic device for full or partial gravity-balancing of a human leg during motion

Gravity balancing is often used in industrial machines to decrease the required actuator efforts during motion. In the literature, a number of methods have been proposed for gravity balancing that include counterweights, springs, and auxiliary parallelograms that determine the center of mass. However, these concepts have not yet been seriously applied to rehabilitation machines. This paper presents the underlying theory and design of an orthosis for the human leg that can fully or partially balance the human leg over the range of its motion. This design combines the use of auxiliary parallelograms to determine the center of mass along with springs to achieve a full or partial gravity balanced orthosis design. A first prototype has been constructed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the idea. Future prototypes will have parameters that will be tuned to the geometry and inertia of a human subject and be tailored to an individual's needs.
Nanotechnology Research Support at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

The field of nanotechnology is growing explosively and impinging on all walks of life. This is reflected in the appearance of nanotechnology in consumer products; in March 2011, the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, a partnership between the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and the Pew Charitable Trusts, reported more than 1300 consumer products containing nanotechnology on the market, a growth of 520% since March 2006.1 The health care field is also being affected; a search on “nanoparticle” in ClinicalTrials.gov pulls up more than 80 trials, primarily in the cancer field but also including such diverse areas as antibacterial agents, dental composites, wound dressings, imaging agents, and stent coatings. What does “nanotechnology” refer to? The National Nanotechnology Initiative defines nanotechnology as the understanding and control of matter at dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nm, where unique phenomena enable novel applications. Encompassing nanoscale science, engineering, and technology, nanotechnology involves imaging, measuring, modeling, and manipulating matter at this length scale.” There are 2 approaches to nanotechnology, termed “top-down” and “bottom-up.” Top-down approaches involve the use of tools to make nanoscale features, for example, nanopatterning of surfaces on devices to change their surface properties. Bottom-up approaches involve self-assembly of small components to make nanoscale particles or structures. ### National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Programs of Excellence in Nanotechnology Early last decade, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recognized the promise of nanotechnology for improving the diagnosis and treatment of heart, lung, and blood diseases, and in 2003 the institute organized a working group to give advice on how to harness this potential. The working group brought together physical scientists such as chemists and material scientists, along with biological scientists and clinicians from the heart, lung, and blood fields. The highest-priority recommendation of the working group was the formation of multidisciplinary centers that would promote collaborations between the biological and physical …
The identification and validation process of proportional reasoning attributes: an application of a cognitive diagnosis modeling framework

In this paper, we discuss the process of identifying and validating students’ abilities to think proportionally. More specifically, we describe the methodology we used to identify these proportional reasoning attributes, beginning with the selection and review of relevant literature on proportional reasoning. We then continue with the deliberation and resolution of differing views by mathematics researchers, mathematics educators, and middle school mathematics teachers of what should be learned theoretically and what can be taught practically in everyday classroom settings. We also present the initial development of proportional reasoning items as part of the two-phase validation process of the previously identified attributes. In particular, we detail in the first phase of the validation process our collaboration with middle school mathematics teachers in the creation of prototype items and the verification of each item-attribute specification in consideration of the most common ways (among many different ways) in which middle school students would have solved these prototype items themselves. In the second phase of the validation process, we elaborate our think-aloud interview procedure in the search for evidence of whether students generally solved the prototype items in the way they were expected to.
Mouse rDNA nontranscribed spacer sequences are found flanking immunoglobulin CH genes and elsewhere throughout the genome

Abstract When a cloned 6 kb Eco RI-Sal I fragment of mouse ribosomal gene nontranscribed spacer DNA (rDNA NTS) was used to screen a BALB/c mouse gene library, 25% of the recombinant phage hybridized with it. In situ hybridization experiments and characterization of 12 clones selected using this probe supported the idea that sequences homologous to this rDNA NTS region are scattered throughout the genome. Subsequently, sequences homologous to mouse rDNA NTS were found flanking mouse μ, α and γ2b immunoglobulin C H genes. One region was localized 3′ to the μ coding sequence, an area which has been identified as an intervening sequence between the secreted C μ heavy chain terminus and the C terminal portion of the membrane-bound C μ heavy chain.
Yizhar Hirschfeld. Qumran in Context , Reassessing the Archaeological Evidence . Peabody, MA: Henderson Publishers, 2004. 220 pp; 136 figures.

About 35,000 books and articles have been published thus far on the Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS). The vast majority deal with the literature found in the eleven caves in the vicinity of Qumran and only a few deal with the archaeological remains of Khirbet Qumran nearby. The site was exhaustively excavated a few times in the past fifty-four years. The first that also determined the nature of its interpretation was carried out during 1951 to 1956 by Fr. Roland de Vaux from the French school of biblical studies at Jerusalem, the Ecole Biblique. Most of the site was unearthed during this excavation. The latest excavations were carried out in the past ten years and thus far with extremely meager publications.
An analysis of patients with bulky advanced stage ovarian, tubal, and peritoneal carcinoma treated with primary debulking surgery (PDS) during an identical time period as the randomized EORTC-NCIC trial of PDS vs neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT).

Abstract Objective The recent EORTC-NCIC randomized trial comparing primary debulking surgery (PDS) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in advanced epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) reported a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 12 months and overall survival (OS) of 30 months for both arms. Due to the equivalent survival and decreased morbidity with NACT, many now consider it the preferred approach. We analyzed the outcomes of patients treated with PDS at our institution during the same time period in which the EORTC-NCIC trial was conducted, using identical inclusion criteria. Methods We identified all patients undergoing primary treatment for advanced EOC at our institution from 9/98-12/06. Study inclusion and exclusion criteria were identical to those of the EORTC-NCIC trial. Standard statistical tests were used. Results Of 316 eligible patients, 285 (90%) underwent PDS and 31 (10%) received NACT due to extra-abdominal disease, medical comorbidities, and/or advanced age (> 85 years). Of the 285 patients who underwent PDS, most had carcinoma of ovarian origin (248, 87%); stage IIIC disease (249, 87%); grade 3 tumors (237, 83%); and serous histology (249, 87%). Optimal cytoreduction (≤ 1 cm residual) was achieved in 203 patients (71%). Postoperative platinum-based chemotherapy was given to 281 of 285 patients (99%). The median PFS and OS were 17 and 50 months, respectively. Conclusion PDS should continue to be the preferred initial management for patients with bulky stages IIIC–IV ovarian carcinoma. NACT should be reserved for those who cannot tolerate PDS and/or for whom optimal cytoreduction is not feasible.
Comparative life cycle assessment of three drink delivery systems

This paper presents information regarding a comparative life cycle assessment (LCA), including scenario and data uncertainty, based on a hypothetical drink product for which we evaluate three main container material alternatives: (1) a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle; (2) an aluminum can; and (3) a polylactide (PLA) bottle. The scope of results included energy, water use and two characterized impacts are included: global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP). The results presented in this study demonstrate that LCI parameter uncertainty seems to have a dominant effect in the outcome of the LCA results considered. Indeed, in most cases there is overlap in the uncertainty intervals (at 95% confidence level), indicating that the three systems under study have similar indicator values, at least with regard to the environmental indicators included here.
Array feeds for reflector surface distortion compensation: concepts and implementation

The development of a compensation algorithm based on the use of array feeds and a focal-plane conjugate field approach is discussed. Results of numerical simulations performed to verify the accuracy of the computer programs are examined, and an experimental study is described. Both the numerical and experimental results show that the array will compensate for the slowly varying surface distortion. In particular, for some typical, slowly varying thermal or gravitational surface distortions, a 19-element array feed can improve the reflector performance considerably. Additionally, it is demonstrated that it will be possible to compensate for the surface distortion without actual knowledge of the distortion itself. >
Laser‐Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy, Elemental Analysis

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a laser-based technique that can provide nonintrusive, qualitative, and quantitative measurements of elements in gas, liquid, and solid samples. Two major advantages of LIBS, a method of atomic emission spectroscopy (AES), compared with other emission techniques, are that time-consuming sample preparation is not necessary and measurements can be done rapidly. LIBS uses the plasma generated by a powerful laser pulse to prepare and excite the sample in one step. It also has the ability to perform simultaneous multielement analysis. A major disadvantage is that the sample excitation conditions are sensitive to variations in laser parameters and characteristics of the sample, thereby limiting analytical performance. The small amount of sample material used in LIBS analysis also limits detection sensitivity for some elements compared with inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICPAES) and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The potential of LIBS to detect toxic metals in harsh environments was recognized in the early 1970s. Recent developments toward improving its analytical capability have led to additional applications. This article reviews some applications of LIBS with an emphasis on environmental monitoring. A brief review of some fundamentally directed LIBS studies is also presented. The analytical abilities of LIBS are compared with other spectroscopic techniques commonly used in the laboratory, such as AAS, ICPAES, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF).
Joint source-channel coding at the application layer for parallel Gaussian sources

In this paper the multicasting of independent parallel Gaussian sources over a binary erasure broadcast channel is considered. Multiresolution embedded quantization and layered joint source-channel coding schemes are used in order to serve simultaneously several users at different channel capacities. The convex nature of the rate-distortion function, computed by means of reverse water-filling, allows us to solve relevant convex optimization problems corresponding to different performance criteria. Then, layered joint source-channel codes are constructed based on the concatenation of embedded scalar quantizers with binary rateless encoders.
Survey of the Elements of Free Energy Transduction

The primary purpose of this book is to explain the basic principles of free energy transduction in biology in as simple a way as possible. A secondary purpose is to study biochemical kinetic diagrams and cycles. These topics are approached by a consideration of hypothetical model systems, at steady state, that are no more complicated than necessary to bring out the essential points. Also, certain refinements and special topics are intentionally omitted in order to keep the discussion at an elementary level. Thus the limited objective here is to provide the reader with an introductory foundation in these subjects. He or she will then be in a good position to study more sophisticated theory and applications to real systems, as summarized in the more advanced books of Hill1 (1977), Caplan and Essig2 (1983), and Westerhoff and van Dam3 (1987).
Mortality of Nasal Bots in Sheep Treated with Systemic Insecticides

Three animal systemic insecticides were given to sheep to determine their effectiveness in reducing larvae (mainly 1st instar) of the sheep bot fly, Oestrus avis L. Nasal sprays of 3% dichlorvos at 2.3 mg per kg administered from pressurized plastic bottles fitted with metered-dose nozzles reduced the numbers of larvae 90%. Oral drenches of fenthion at 30 mg per kg completely eliminated larvae. The same rate of fenthion in feed mixtures and as a pour-on was less effective than oral drenches. Fenthion sprays did not provide any measure of control, probably because of their failure to wet the skin of sheep. Bay 9017 ( O, O -diethyl O -[4-(methylthio)-3,5-xylyl] phosphorothioate) was nearly as effective as fenthion.
Some contributions of microsurgery to clinical and experimental transplantation

The clinical applications of microsurgery in the transplantation of kidneys, lungs, reproductive organs, and endocrine organs and in pediatric transplantation are discussed, along with the role of microsurgery in transplantation research in laboratory animals.
Development of copper wire bonding application technology

The continuous forming of oxide-free, stable, spherical copper balls which has been realized by blowing a reducing gas over the copper wire during copper ball formation (sparkling) is described. The prevention of chip damage resulting from hard copper wire, including underpad cracking and silicon cratering, by the double-load wire bonding technology is discussed; this technology can minimize chip damage from wire bonding stress because the bonding load is decreased during ultrasonic power oscillation. It was confirmed that copper wires have a reliability equivalent to that of gold wires. The double-load wire bonding technology makes it possible to use copper wires in MOS LSI devices on a commercial basis. >
Motivations for a career in emergency medicine: a profile of the 1996 US applicant pool

Introduction: Although some studies have tried to assess the factors leading to choice of specialty, none have been specific to emergency medicine (EM). With a doubling of the number of EM residency programs in the past decade, an assessment of the career motivations of residents is in order. Objectives: To identify and rank the factors that lead candidates to choose EM as a career. Methods: Fifty-four participating EM programs returned a total of 393 anonymous surveys completed by their 1996 National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) interviewees. The survey asked respondents to rank 12 factors on a 5-point (0‐4) Likert scale. Results: Respondents ranked the 12 motivating factors in the following descending order of importance: diversity in clinical pathology, emphasis on acute care, flexibility in choice of practice location, flexibility of EM work schedules, previous work experience in EM, greater availability of EM faculty for bedside teaching, strong influence of an EM faculty advisor or mentor, relatively shorter length of training, better salaries for EM than for primary care specialties, the presence of an EM residency at the student’s medical school, perception that EM residents have more time to moonlight and popularity of EM among medical students. Conclusion: US applicants appear to choose a career in EM largely because of clinical factors (diversity of clinical pathology and emphasis on acute care) and practice-related factors (flexibility in practice location and schedule). RESUME
Diagnosing Tropical Cyclone Rapid Intensification Using Kernel Methods and Reanalysis Datasets

Abstract Tropical cyclone rapid intensification (RI) continues to be a problem that eludes operational forecasters. Recent work in this area has revealed the value of applying machine learning techniques to classifying storms as RI or non-RI at 24-hours lead time. However, that work showed that differing reanalysis datasets represented the storms in unique ways, offering different discrimination capability and unique predictor sets that are important for RI. The scope of this research is to identify factors important for RI that are consistent among three reanalysis datasets, as these are likely the fields that will provide the greatest discrimination capability. An S-mode rotated principal component analysis was used to formulate unique patterns within RI and non-RI storms, and the resulting RPC scores were used to train a support vector machine classification algorithm that yielded binary RI occurrence output. Base-state meteorological variables (geopotential height, temperature, u and v wind components, vertical velocity, and relative humidity) at single horizontal levels were tested individually as predictors for the SVM. Base-state fields that were consistently good at discriminating RI events from non-RI events among all three reanalysis datasets were deemed most useful for RI classification and will be considered for future forecast applications.
The Incidence of Alzheimer’s Disease

Similar to prevalence, incidence rates for AD and dementia double every 5 years. Studies of MCI incidence and transitions to dementia, death, and normal cognition suggest that many MCI patients revert to normal cognition, often before transitioning again to MCI and then to dementia. Data from autopsy studies show that AD pathology is likely to decrease at ages above 90, but that incidence of dementia continues to rise. Comparisons of incidence rates of AD in women and men have produced mixed findings, with women living to age 85 and beyond likely at somewhat higher risk than men of this age. Most studies have found higher rates of AD and dementia in African-Americans as compared to Caucasians. Incidence rates for dementia are fairly comparable in middle- and high-income countries but may be lower in some disadvantaged populations. AD incidence appears to have been decreasing for the past three decades, perhaps due to the increases in education, brain size, and other protective factors. Whether this trend will continue with the increase in incidence of obesity and diabetes, risk factors for AD, will not be clear for several decades.
Sediment supply, base level, braiding, and bedrock river terrace formation: Arroyo Seco, California, USA

In many settings, rivers alternate between carving wide valley bottoms (straths) and cutting narrow gorges over time, thereby creating longitudinally continuous paired bedrock strath terraces along valleys. Strath terraces are used ubiquitously in geomorphology and tectonics; however, how and why they form remain poorly understood. Here, we focus on Arroyo Seco in the central California Coast Ranges, where we test hypotheses for strath planation and subsequent strath terrace formation. Several lines of evidence indicate that strath planation is triggered by braiding in bedrock channels. In particular, hydraulic modeling reveals that the width of Arroyo Seco’s most recently formed terrace is comparable to the width of currently braided channel reaches. Additionally, a comparison of currently braided reaches to abandoned bedrock meander cutoffs shows that braided channels have valleys that are several times wider than single-thread meandering bedrock channel reaches. Lastly, in locations where the modern channel is currently braided, terraces are poorly preserved, suggesting that evidence for past episodes of braiding, in the form of paired strath terraces, is apparently largely destroyed by subsequent episodes of braiding. Field observations combined with mapping of terrace levels using an objective light detection and ranging (LiDAR)–based terrace identification algorithm reveal that temporal variation in tectonic uplift rate, sea level, and/or alluvial cover along the river cannot explain strath planation and subsequent terrace formation in Arroyo Seco. Rather, our results provide evidence that aggradation and degradation of alluvial sediments downstream of the Reliz Canyon fault result in impulsive base-level forcing of Arroyo Seco’s bedrock channel. Strath abandonment and terrace formation apparently occur as incision into downstream alluvial sediments propagates upstream into bedrock. Braiding and planation of straths, in contrast, occur during intervals of low vertical incision rate associated with downstream aggradation or immediately following pulses of vertical lowering triggered by downstream incision of alluvial sediments.
Growth and mortality of subtidal red sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus franciscanus) at San Nicolas Island, California, USA: problems with models

Red sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus franciscanus, were tagged with tetracycline in 1990 at subtidal sites off San Nicolas Island, California, USA. After one year in the field, the sea urchins were collected and growth increments were measured based on tetracycline marks, which indicated initial slow growth, a maximum rate, and finally a prolonged period of very slow growth. Small red sea urchins (4 cm diam) were estimated to be 3 to 4 yr old, which is much older than has previously been reported. It is estimated that about 12 yr would be required to attain 10 cm diam. Survival has previously been modeled assuming a constant rate. If the population of red sea urchins is assumed to be stable and stationary, annual survival rate was between 71 and 77% yr-1. Census data for the two years of study have permitted annual survival to be estimated without assuming stable and stationary population structure. Under these conditions, annual survival rate was between 79 and 86% yr-1. Analysis of transitions in the size distributions from 1990 to 1991 suggested that annual survival may have been sizespecific: 91% yr-1 for individuals 1.1 to 4.0 cm diam, 82% yr-1 for individuals 4.1 to 7.0 cm diam, and 63% yr-1 for those of 7.1 to 10.0 cm diam. An alternative explanation to size-specific survival in our study is sizespecific immigration.
Corona loss of bundle conductor in corona cage

When the electric-field intensity on the transmission line conductor surface is bigger than the air breakdown strength,the corona discharge happens.The air near the conductor is punctured and heat,light,audible noise,radio interference and massive corona loss is produced.The systematic research on power line corona loss is very important to engineering application.2D and 3D models of the corona cage is established and simulated to analyze the surface electric-field intensity of the bundle conductor.The influence of the protection section size of the corona cage on the electric-field intensity of the conductor surface is simulated to determine the optimal section size.Corona loss of the bundle conductor in the corona cage under different rainfall rate is measured based on the 3D model simulation results,which provides important reference for corona loss estimation.