cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiation Safety Considerations and Clinical Advantages of Alpha-Emitting Therapy Radionuclides

Alpha-emitting radionuclides provide an effective means of delivering large radiation doses to targeted treatment locations. Radium-223 dichloride (223RaCl2) is FDA approved for treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and Actinium-225 (225Ac-Lintuzumab) radiolabeled antibodies have been shown to be beneficial for patients with acute myeloid leukemia. In recent years, there is an increasing use of alpha emitters in theranostic agents with both small and large molecule constructs. The proper precautionary means for their use and surveying documentation of these isotopes in a clinical setting are an essential accompaniment to these treatments. Methods: Patient treatment data collected over a three-year period, as well as regulatory requirements and safety practices, are described. Commonly used radiation instrumentation was evaluated for their ability to identify potential radioactive material spills and contamination events during a clinical administration of 225Ac. These instruments were placed at 0.32 cm from a 1.0 cm 225Ac disk source for measurement purposes. Radiation background values, efficiencies, and minimal detectable activities were measured and calculated for each type of detector. Results: The median external measured patient dose rate from 223RaCl2 patients (n = 611) was 2.5 µSv hr-1 on contact and 0.2 µSv hr-1 at 1 meter immediately after administration. Similarly, 225Ac-Lintuzumab (n = 19) patients had median external dose rates of 2.0 µSv hr-1 on contact and 0.3 µSv hr-1 at 1 meter. For the measurement of 225Ac samples, a liquid scintillation counter was found to have the highest overall efficiency (97%), while a zinc sulfide (ZnS) alpha probe offered the lowest minimal detectable activity at 3 counts per minute. Conclusion: In this study, we report data from 630 patients who were undergoing treatment with alpha-emitting isotopes 223Ra and 225Ac. While alpha emitters have ability to deliver higher internal radiation dose to the tissues exposed as compared with other unsealed radionuclides, they typically present minimal external dose rate concerns. Additionally, alpha radiation can be efficiently detected with appropriate radiation instrumentation, such as a liquid scintillation counter or ZnS probe, that should be prioritized when surveying for spills of alpha-emitters.
Intracellular distribution of radioactive vitamin B12 in rat liver.

Abstract When radioactive cyanocobalamin (CN-[57Co]B12) was administered to rats by intracardiac injection, 98% of the CN-[57Co]B12 bound to transcobalamin II immediately upon injection and was transported to the tissues in this form. The radioactive compounds extracted from liver 20 min and 72 hours after the administration of CN-[57Co]B12 were identified either as CN-B12 or as a derivative of CN-B12. Five minutes after injection of CN-[57Co]B12, 46% of the radioactivity of the liver sedimented with the microsomal fraction (P). The radioactivity in this P was associated primarily with vesicles containing 5'-nucleotidase (marker enzyme for plasma membranes) rather than glucose 6-phosphatase (marker enzyme for endoplasmic reticulum). The amount of radioactivity in P then decreased progressively to 9% of the total liver radioactivity by 72 hours, whereas the amount of radioactivity in the heavy mitochondrial and soluble fractions of the liver increased to 33% and 32%, respectively, at 72 hours. Highly purified lysosomal fractions contained little radioactivity 5 min and 72 hours after the injection of CN-[57Co]B12; however, at intermediate times these lysosomal fractions contained significant amounts of radioactivity (15% of the total liver radioactivity at 30 min post-injection). Approximately 80% of the radioactivity in these lysosomal fractions was present as CN-[57Co]B12. Mitochrondial fractions containing approximately 10% of the 5'-nucleotidase of the liver were fractionated on sucrose gradients, and the preliminary data suggest that a portion of this 5'-nucleotidase may be associated with lysosomes.
CXC Chemokines Bind to Unique Sets of Selectivity Determinants That Can Function Independently and Are Broadly Distributed on Multiple Domains of Human Interleukin-8 Receptor B DETERMINANTS OF HIGH AFFINITY BINDING AND RECEPTOR ACTIVATION ARE DISTINCT

Human interleukin-8 receptors A (IL-8RA) and B (IL-8RB) are seven-transmembrane domain (TMD) neutrophil chemokine receptors with similar sequences (77% amino acid identity) and similar G protein selectivity, but markedly different selectivity for CXC chemokines. IL-8RB is selective for IL-8, growth-related oncogene α (GROα) and neutrophil-activating peptide-2 (NAP-2), whereas IL-8RA is selective only for IL-8. To identify selectivity determinants, we made eight chimeric receptors exchanging: 1) the three main regions of sequence divergence between IL-8RA and IL-8RB (the N-terminal segment before TMD1, the region from TMD4 to the end of the second extracellular (e2) loop, and the C-terminal tail), and 2) the N-terminal segment of CC chemokine receptor 1, which does not bind CXC chemokines. Chimeras were tested by direct 125I-IL-8, 125I-GROα, and 125I-NAP-2 binding, heterologous competition binding, and calcium flux assays using human embryonic kidney 293 cells stably transfected with receptor DNAs. The following results were obtained: 1) chimeric receptors had binding sites for IL-8, GROα and NAP-2 distinct from those on IL-8RA and IL-8RB; 2) IL-8, GROα and NAP-2 bound to overlapping but distinct sites that mapped differentially to multiple domains on IL-8RB; 3) high affinity radioligand binding and high agonist potency were separable functions for IL-8, GROα and NAP-2, suggesting that the determinants of high affinity binding may not be critical for receptor activation; and 4) determinants of GROα and NAP-2 selectivity were found in both the N-terminal segment before TMD1 and the region from TMD4 to the end of the e2 loop of IL-8RB, and functioned independently of each other. Stated reciprocally, the N-terminal segment of IL-8RA was not a dominant selectivity determinant. These data suggest that both narrow and broad spectrum chemokine antagonists can be developed to block functions mediated by IL-8RB.
Epidemiology and natural history.

Mesenteric vascular disease encompasses a wide range of disparate pathologies. Acute and chronic mesenteric ischemia are the most common of these arising as sequelae of mesenteric atherosclerosis in the latter and either atherosclerosis or embolism in the former. Other manifestations of mesenteric vascular disease are rare, with data often limited to small case series. This chapter aims to present the currently published data on the epidemiology and natural history of chronic and acute mesenteric ischemia, median arcuate ligament syndrome, isolated mesenteric artery dissection, and mesenteric aneurysms. Across entities, the increased use and sophistication of abdominal imaging modalities have contributed to increased detection despite advances in medical management, including statin therapy, that have likely decreased true incidence. Similarly, the introduction of endovascular approaches to these pathologies frequently lowers the threshold for intervention with a resulting increase in overall treatment. The natural history of these entities is then critical as we evaluate the impact of improved detection and an evolving treatment paradigm.
Photovoltaic Solar Cell Comparison Methodology

The lack of a consistent analytical basis for different solar cell materials, configurations and manufacturing processes has led to a tendency to optimistically estimate the potential of any individual approach and to force this estimate to conform to previously established target values. The consistent analytical technique presented here permits the quantitative comparison of all options, using identical criteria.
Electronic transitions in chromium (III) complexes—I: Absorption spectra of β-diketone chelates

Abstract Absorption spectra of solutions of chromium (III) (β-diketone chelates were obtained at 85°K. The effects of substituents on the chelate rings upon the positions of the bands in the 22–40,000 cm −1 region were determined. These shifts are similar for all the bands and in accord with the predictions of molecular orbital theory for π-π ∗ transitions.
The Common Law in Colonial America: Volume I, The Chesapeake and New England, 1607–1660 – By William E. Nelson

Historians of colonial British North America have long relied on a comparison of New England to the Chesapeake to demonstrate the divergence of the Northern and Southern mainland colonies. Convenie...
Information-seeking strategies of dental hygienists.

As health care practitioners, dental hygienists need information-gathering skills and the confidence to both perform literature searches in Internet databases and assess the results in order to utilize the wealth of scientific literature that supports evidence-based practice. The aim of this study was to assess the information-seeking strategies of dental hygienists. A self-administered electronic survey of thirty-eight questions was sent to 5,007 licensed dental hygienists in District III of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. The overall response rate was 7.9 percent (396/5,007). Most (90.9 percent) of the respondents were currently practicing dental hygiene, with 62.9 percent having practiced more than ten years. Approximately 56 percent had graduated from a two-year dental hygiene program and had graduated before 1998. Nearly all of the respondents who graduated in 1999 or after were confident using a computer (96.2 percent) and the Internet (95.4 percent); lower percentages of the pre-1999 graduates expressed such confidence (68.6 percent using a computer and 80.7 percent using the Internet). Most respondents (90.9 percent) who graduated in 1999 or after reported receiving evidence-based decision making (EBDM) training in their dental hygiene program— an increase over the 51.8 percent of pre-1999 graduates who reported having received it—though lower percentages (78.2 and 48.0 percent, respectively) reported thinking their EBDM training was adequate. Though the response rate was low, these results may suggest that information-gathering skills are being more effectively addressed in recent dental hygiene education than previously. Continuing education courses that teach hands-on navigation of databases and methods to search the scientific literature and analytically appraise it could increase both the skills and comfort level of dental hygienists, especially those who graduated more than a decade ago.
Coalescence of the Global Peace and Justice Movements

This work examines how the Alter-Globalization Movement has sustained a transnational presence throughout the ongoing cycle of contention that began in the mid-1990s, even as priorities, leaders, targets, claims, and frames have continuously evolved. It traces the ‘transnational coalescence’ process between the post-Seattle, anti-neoliberal movement and anti-war concerns triggered by the 9/11 attacks and George W. Bush's war on terror, and centers on the protest wave that crested in the global day of action against war on 15 February 2003. Rather than simply an exodus—i.e. ‘spillover’ or ‘spillout’—from one movement to another, or a distinct transnational movement arising spontaneously, key bridge-building organizations have proven crucial in shifting down to harness nascent activist energies by brokering new ties and reinvigorating old ones as well as frame-extending between emerging and extant concerns, in order to scale back up as a broader transnational movement for Global Peace and Justice. Este trab...
Nominal Competence in Health Care

It had been a busy weekend on call, with several critically ill babies admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. Mrs Johnson, the mother of one of these babies, was sitting next to her baby’s incubator. As the attending neonatologist in charge, I had just introduced myself to her. That’s when she told me that would never be able to remember my name. This was nothing new. I’ve heard similar comments from other parents in the past. Several years ago the mother of another of my patients told me proudly how she managed to remember my name: “I’ll always remember your name because I told myself that Dr Suresh sounds like David Koresh!” In addition to not remembering my name, patients (and colleagues) very frequently mispronounce my name. Some have admitted, often apologetically, that they have difficulty pronouncing my name.
Nova2 Regulates Neuronal Migration through an RNA Switch in Disabled-1 Signaling

Neuronal migration leads to a highly organized laminar structure in the mammalian brain, and its misregulation causes lissencephaly and behavioral and cognitive defects. Reelin signaling, which is mediated in part by a key adaptor, disabled-1 (Dab1), plays a critical but incompletely understood role in this process. We found that the neuron-specific RNA-binding protein Nova2 regulates neuronal migration in late-generated cortical and Purkinje neurons. An unbiased HITS-CLIP and exon junction array search for Nova-dependent reelin-pathway RNAs at E14.5 revealed only one candidate-an alternatively spliced isoform of Dab1 (Dab1.7bc). In utero electroporation demonstrated that Dab1.7bc was sufficient to induce neuronal migration defects in wild-type mice and exacerbate defects when Dab1 levels were reduced, whereas Dab1 overexpression mitigates defects in Nova2 null mice. Thus, Nova2 regulates an RNA switch controlling the ability of Dab1 to mediate neuronal responsiveness to reelin signaling and neuronal migration, suggesting new links between splicing regulation, brain disease, and development.
Fisher's zeros of quasi-Gaussian densities of states

We discuss apparent paradoxes regarding the location of the zeros of the partition function in the complex {beta} plane (Fisher's zeros) of a pure SU(2) lattice gauge theory in 4 dimensions. We propose a new criterion to draw the region of the complex {beta} plane where reweighting methods can be trusted when the density of states is almost but not exactly Gaussian. We propose new methods to infer the existence of zeros outside of this region. We demonstrate the reliability of these proposals with quasi-Gaussian Monte Carlo distributions where the locations of the zeros can be calculated by independent numerical methods. The results are presented in such a way that the methods can be applied for general lattice models. Applications to specific lattice models will be discussed in a separate publication.
Escape rates in periodically driven Markov processes

We present an approximate analytical expression for the escape rate of time-dependent driven stochastic processes with an absorbing boundary such as the driven leaky integrateand-fire model for neural spiking. The novel approximation i s based on a discrete state Markovian modeling of the full long-time dynamics with time-dependent rates. It is valid in a wide parameter regime beyond the restraining limits of weak driving (linear response) and/or weak noise. The scheme is carefully tested and yields excellent agreement with three different numerical methods based on the Langevin equation, the Fokker-Planck equation and an integral equation.
Estrophile to nucleophile in two easy steps

Abstract A variety of self-consistent experimental evidence supports the concept that estrogcnic hormones interact with their target tissues by a multi-stage mechanism in which the hormone first associates with the 4S binding unit of an 8S extranuclear receptor protein, activating it to undergo conversion to a 5S form. This temperature-dependent transformation takes place when the receptor is bound to estradiol, but not when it is uncomplexed or bound to estrone. The transformed hormone-receptor complex migrates to the nucleus where it associates with an acceptor site in the chromatin. Analytical amounts of the 5S nuclear complex and a calciumstabilized 4S cytosol complex have been isolated from calf uterus in apparently pure state, opening the way for the large scale purification of these different forms of the receptor protein. The estrogen-receptor interaction sequence appears to be involved in the acceleration of biosynthetic reactions in hormone-dependent tissues. Exposure of isolated uterine nuclei either to transformed complex or to native complex under conditions where transformation can take place causes a significant increase in their ability to synthesize RNA. Similar treatment does not enhance the already high RNA synthetic capacity of liver or kidney nuclei. It is suggested that an important function of the hormone is to promote the conversion of the receptor protein to an active form which can enter the nucleus and alleviate a defficiency in RNA synthesis, characteristic of estrogen-responsive tissues.
Pubertal suppression and professional obligations: may a pediatric endocrinologist refuse to treat an adolescent with gender dysphoria?

Of the different features of this case, I focus on the pediatric endocrinologist's refusal to treat the patient. Providers generally have wide latitude in accepting or refusing patients. Appropriat...
Chromatin model calculations: Arrays of spherical nu bodies.

Abstract Chromatin fibers consists of globular nucleohistone particles (designated nu bodies) along the length of the chromatin DNA with approximately 6-to7-fold compaction of the DNA within the nu bodies. We have calculated theoretical small-angle x-ray scattering curves and have compared these with experimental data in the literature. Several models predict maxima at the correct angles. The first maximum (approximately 110 degrees A) results from interparticle interference, while both the spatial arrangement and the structure factor the nu bodies can contribute to the additional small-angle maxima. These calculations suggest models which can account for the electron microscopic observation that chromatin is seen as either approximately 100-or approximately 200-to 250 degrees A-diameter fibers, depending on the solvent conditions. They also account for the limited orientability of the x-ray pattern from pulled chromatin fibers.
On the optimal harvesting of persistent age-structured populations

This paper discusses optimal harvesting policies for age-structured populations harvested with effort independent of age.
Measurement of gastric pH in ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring

Ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring is the method used most widely to quantify gastroesophageal reflux. The degree of gastroesophageal reflux may potentially be underestimated if the resting gastric pH is high. Normal subjects and symptomatic patients undergoing 24-h pH monitoring were studied to determine whether a relationship exists between resting gastric pH and the degree of esophageal acid exposure. Normal volunteers (n = 54) and symptomatic patients without prior gastric surgery and off medication (n = 1,582) were studied. Gastric pH was measured by advancing the pH catheter into the stomach before positioning the electrode in the esophagus. The normal range of gastric pH was defined from the normal subjects, and the patients then were classified as having either normal gastric pH or hypochlorhydria. Esophageal acid exposure was compared between the two groups. The normal range for gastric pH was 0.3–2.9. The median age of the 1,582 patients was 51 years, and their median gastric pH was 1.7. Abnormal esophageal acid exposure was found in 797 patients (50.3%). Hypochlorhydria (resting gastric pH >2.9) was detected in 176 patients (11%). There was an inverse relationship between gastric pH and esophageal acid exposure (r = −0.13). For the patients with positive 24-h pH test results, the major effect of gastric pH was that the hypochlorhydric patients tended to have more reflux in the supine position than those with normal gastric pH. There is an inverse, dose-dependent relationship between gastric pH and esophageal acid exposure. Negative 24-h esophageal pH test results for a patient with hypochlorhydria may prompt a search for nonacid reflux as the explanation for the patient’s symptoms.
The Emerging Importance of Genetics in Epidemiologic Research. I. Basic Concepts in Human Genetics and Laboratory Technology

Abstract PURPOSE: To define a general framework of current approaches to the discovery of disease-associated genes and the role of genetic factors in influencing disease risk through the integration of genome technology and traditional epidemiologic methods. METHODS: An overview of basic concepts in human genetics, laboratory methodology for measuring genetic variation believed to influence common diseases, and issues concerning preparation and utilization of genetic materials is provided as a foundation for genetic epidemiologic research. RESULTS: Identification and characterization of human genetic variation is providing new risk factors for disease in the form of DNA sequence variation. The availability of genetic material from participants in large epidemiologic studies and appropriate informed consent represents an invaluable resource for exploring genetic and environmental influences on disease risk. CONCLUSIONS: Advances in genome technology coupled with vast amounts of genetic data resulting from the Human Genome Project are broadening the scope of epidemiologic research and providing tools to identify individuals at increased risk of disease. Combining diverse expertise from the fields of epidemiology and human genetics provides unique opportunities to localize disease-susceptibility genes and examine molecular mechanisms of complex disease etiology.
A Model for Improved Prediction of Force Coefficients in Grooved Squeeze Film Dampers and Oil Seal Rings

Squeeze film damper (SFD) designs typically implement supply grooves to ensure adequate lubricant flow into the film lands. Oil seal rings, of land film clearance c, also incorporate short and shallow grooves (length ≤ 30c, depth ≤ 15c) to reduce cross-coupled stiffnesses, thus promoting dynamic stability without a penalty in increased leakage. However, extensive experimental results in the archival literature demonstrate that grooves do not reduce the force coefficients as much as theory predicts. A common assumption is that deep grooves do not influence a damper or oil seal ring forced response. However, unexpected large added mass coefficients, not adequately predicted, appear to be common in many tested SFD and oil seal configurations. In the case of oil seals, experiments demonstrate that circumferential grooves do reduce cross-coupled stiffnesses but to a lesser extent than predictions would otherwise indicate. A linear fluid inertia bulk-flow model for analysis of the forced response of SFDs and oil seal configurations with multiple grooves is advanced. A perturbation analysis for small amplitude journal motions about a centered position yields zeroth and first-order flow equations at each flow region (lands and grooves). At a groove region, a groove effective depth d η , differing from its actual physical value, is derived from qualitative observations of the laminar flow pattern through annular cavities. The boundary conditions at the inlet and exit planes depend on the actual seal or SFD configuration. Integration of the resulting first-order pressure fields on the journal surface yields the force coefficients (stiffness, damping, and inertia). Current model predictions are in excellent agreement with published test force coefficients for a grooved SFD and a grooved oil seal. The results confirm that large added mass coefficients arise from the flow interactions between the feed/discharge grooves and film lands in the test elements. Furthermore, the predictions, benchmarking experimental data, corroborate that short length inner-land grooves in an oil seal do not isolate the pressure fields of adjacent film lands and hence contribute greatly to the forced response of the mechanical element.
Modeling solitary waves on nonlinear transmission lines

Practical transmission lines have losses, and physical nonuniformities that can result in a destructive distortion of the rise and fall times of digital signals. The main problem is dispersion, in which the higher frequency wave components travel faster than the lower frequency components, resulting in a severe distortion that cannot be corrected with simple amplification, In contrast to this complex situation, solitary waves tend to assume a given shape and automatically maintain their shape until they approach the end of their life. This paper shows that an accurate model is possible for nonideal lines that support solitary waves, allowing their behavior to be predicted to an arbitrary precision. >
ADAMTS13, TTP and Beyond.

Copyright: © 2012 Zheng XL. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
A continuous seismic profiling display system

Abstract During a study of continuous seismic profiling a need was developed for a flexible system to reproduce continuous seismic profiles from data tape recorded at sea. A system utilizing photographic film exposed by the intensity modulation of a CRT was developed providing a large time compression during playback along with independent adjustment of time gating and record expansion.
ACCELERATOR SPALLATION REACTORS FOR BREEDING FISSILE FUEL AND TRANSMUTING FISSION PRODUCTS

A summary of the status of the development of accelerator spallation reactors for breeding fissile fuel and for transmuting fission products is presented. The development of linear accelerators for generating protons in the GeV range and the subsequent spallation-reaction production of neutrons are reviewed. Target-reactor designs for production of fissile fuel and the advantages and disadvantages of the various applications of the spallation reactors are given. The linear accelerator fuel enricher-generator (LAFER) can supply significant amounts of fissile fuel to conventional light water reactors (LWRs) in an economical manner. A fuel cycle is designed which recycles the transuranics and long-lived fission products for transmutation and waste management.
States, demographics and competitiveness of America's best universities

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between the US News and World Report's competitive ratings of US universities with various state level demographic variables using cross‐sectional data.Design/methodology/approach – Secondary data for the study were collected from the US News and World Report, Demographics USA, other US statistical sources. Regression and correlation analysis determined the relationships.Findings – Findings indicate that the competitive rating of the US News and World Report universities can be explained by the Buying Power Index (BPI) of the state in which the university is located, per capita federal transfer payments in education, and proportion of out‐of‐state students. International students and ethnic enrollment also show some relationship with competitive rating. Diversity adds to competitiveness. The ratings of the universities are related to the BPI of the state and per capita federal transfer, both of which are uncontrollable variables for th...
The Vitamin D3 Hydroxylase-Associated Protein Is a Propionamide-Metabolizing Amidase Enzyme

Abstract Previously we isolated a novel protein that coimmunoprecipitates with the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-24R-hydroxylase and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-1α-hydroxylase. This kidney-specific protein found in the inner membrane of mitochondria is named the vitamin D3 hydroxylase-associated protein (VDHAP). To determine a putative function for this protein, an extensive computer search of the deduced amino acid sequence of VDHAP was performed. A BLAST homology search identified amino acid residues 133 through 321 in acetamidase from Aspergillus nidulans that exhibit 38% amino acid identity and 65% amino acid similarity to VDHAP. A protein consensus sequence dictionary, MOTIFS, identified an amidase consensus sequence in VDHAP. This sequence, G-G-S-S-G-G-E-G-A-L-I-A-G-G-G-S-L-L-G-I-G-S-D-V-A-G-S-I-R-L-P-S, in VDHAP is located between amino acids 223 and 254. Propionamide, acetamide, and acrylamide were identified as substrates for an amidase activity in soluble chicken kidney mitochondria. Propionamide is the best substrate with a Vmax of 16.7 nmol NH+4/min/mg protein and an apparent Km of 7.9 mM in soluble chicken kidney mitochondria. A VDHAP monoclonal antibody, IVC2G8, immunoprecipitates 78% of the total propionamidase activity in soluble chicken kidney mitochondria. These results suggest that VDHAP is a propionamidase enzyme in soluble chicken kidney mitochondria and a member of the amidase signature gene family.
Effects of biological sediment mixing on the210Pb chronology and trace metal distribution in a Long Island Sound sediment core

An experiment was designed to assess the relative importance of sediment accumulation and bioturbation in determining the vertical distribution of nuclides in estuarine sediments. A diver-collected core, 120 cm long, was raised from central Long Island Sound and analyzed down its length for:210Pb and226Ra;239, 240Pu; and Mn, Zn, Cu, and Pb. Sampling for chemical analysis was guided by X-radiography of the core. Excess210Pb (relative to226Ra) is roughly homogeneous in the top 2–4 cm of the core, then decreases quasi-exponentially to zero at (or above) 15 cm.239, 240Pu and excess Zn, Cu, and Pb, relative to background values at greater depths in the core, are distributed like excess210Pb in the top 10–15 cm. The absence of Mn enrichment at the top of the core, in contrast to other cores raised from this station, suggests that 1–3 cm of sediment was lost by erosion at the site of this core sometime prior to sampling. Below 15 cm excess210Pb and excess Zn, Cu, and Pb are found only in the bulk sample from 25 to 30 cm and in clearly identifiable burrow fillings dissected from 70 cm and 115 cm depth. Infilling of large burrows, excavated and then abandoned by crustaceans, is therefore a mechanism for transfer of surficial material to depth in these sediments. The bioturbation rate in the top several centimeters at this station has been determined previously using234Th (24-day half-life). The distribution of239, 240Pu can be used to estimate a bioturbation rate for the underlying layer (to ∼10 cm depth); this rate is found to be 1–3% of the maximum mixing rate for the top 2–3 cm. Using these two mixing rates in a composite-layer, mixing + sedimentation model, the distribution of excess210Pb in the top 15 cm was used to constrain the sediment accumulation rate, ω. While the apparent rate of sediment accumulation (assuming no mixing below 2–4 cm) is 0.11 cm/yr, the model requires ω < 0.05 cm/yr. Thus in an area of slow sediment accumulation, a low rate of bioturbation below the surficial zone of rapid mixing causes an increase of at least a factor of two in apparent accumulation rate.
Ballistic Thermal Conductance of Graphene Ribbons

An elastic-shell-based theory for calculating the thermal conductance of graphene ribbons of arbitrary width w is presented. The analysis of vibrational modes of a continuum thin plate leads to a general equation for ballistic conductance σ. At low temperature, it yields a power law σ ∼ Tβ, where the exponent β varies with the ribbon width w from β = 1 for a narrow ribbon (σ ∼ T, as a four-channel quantum wire) to β = 3/2 (σ ∼ wT3/2) in the limit of wider graphene sheets. The ballistic results can be augmented by the phenomenological value of a phonon mean free path to account for scattering and agree well with the reported experimental observations.
Si/Ge nanodot superlattices for Si-based photovoltaics

We have grown Si/Ge nanodot superlattices via low-pressure chemical vapor deposition in order to analyze their performance as thin-film solar cells. Self-assembled Ge nanodots are included in the base region in order to boost absorption of near-infrared photons and to increase short-circuit current density, J sc . At a relatively low dot density of 5.5×l09 cm−2, both 20- and 40-period cells exhibited a fill factor of 70% and open-circuit voltage (V oc ) of 0.51V, closely matching previously reported devices grown by molecular beam epitaxy. The 20- and 40-period cells had similar spectral responsivity for λ=400–550 nm, but the thicker base of the 40-period cell enabled it to attain higher responsivity for wavelengths in the range of 550–900 nm. When we increased the dot density by 55% while holding the number of periods at 40, V oc dropped significantly due to a combination of lower bandgap and higher dislocation density. Work is in progress to integrate such SiGe-nano-materials based PV devices with ultra-thin Si PV, to obtain higher efficiencies as well as minimize the use of Si.
Use of the envelope detection method to detect micro-Doppler

Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) was tasked by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), to test the Safety Warning System® (SWS) for application as an in-vehicle communications system. In addition to the communications function, the system has a 24 GHz homodyne Doppler radar function that provides the system’s micro-controller with traffic counts and speed information on passing vehicles. One task was to use the homodyne radar to see if the resonant frequency of an 18 wheel tractor trailer could be determined while the truck was at a distance from the radar (Greneker, et al.). This led to a study of additional methods to detect low frequency resonance effects excited by the interaction between the highway and the suspension system of a tractor trailer when the body induced Doppler signal is many orders of magnitude larger than the resonance frequency of interest. This paper describes a method that the authors call the “envelope detection” method. This micro-Doppler extraction technique has proven useful to extract small vibration and resonance induced signals in the presence of a large Doppler signal from the radar energy reflected from the radiator, hood and cab of the tractor trailer used in testing.
Influence of austempering temperature on microstructure and fracture toughness of a high-carbon, high-silicon and high-manganese cast steel

Abstract An investigation was carried out to examine the influence of austempering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a high-carbon (1.00%), high-silicon (3.00%) and high-manganese (2.00%) cast steel. Cylindrical tensile specimens and compact tension specimens were prepared from this cast steel according to ASTM standards and were given four different austempering heat treatments to produce different microstructures. The tensile properties and fracture toughness of these materials were studied at room temperature in ambient atmosphere. Test results indicate that maximum fracture toughness is obtained in this steel when the microstructure contains very high austenitic carbon ( X γ C γ ).
Preparation of Certain Biologically Active Anthraquinone Derivatives Containing Nitrogen

A new approach to the synthesis of benzo [g]quinoline-5,10-diones is presented and discussed. Five benzo[g]quinoline-5,10-diones and two amino-hydroxyanthra-quinones were prepared and screened for antibacterial activity. Some inhibition of growth of one or more common organisms was demonstrated by most of the compounds tested.
Mass transfer produced by laminar flow oscillations

Mass transfer produced by laminar flow oscillations was studied theoretically and experimentally. A hollow tube was caused to oscillate between two constant volume reservoirs with a constant concentration difference. Experimental axial mass transfer rates of hydrochloric acid in water were found to be from 20 to 1100 tmies that of ordinary diffusion for a Reynolds number range of 0.07 to 0.84. The coupled momentum-mass transfer equations were solved and show excellent agreement with the experimental work. The average deviation from theory for all experiments was 6.44%. The theoretical results show that the mass transfer increase is proportional to the square of amplitude and depends, in a complex way, on the Reynolds and Schmidt numbers. On a etudie theoriquement et experimentalement le transfert de masse produit par les oscillations d'un ecoulement laminaire. On a fait osciller un tube creux entre deux reservoirs a volume stable, en conservant la difference de concentration constante. On a trouve experimentalement que les vitesses axiales de transfert de masse de l'acide chlorhydrique dans l'eau correspondaient a 20–1100 fois la vitesse de diffusion ordinaire pour des nombres de Reynolds variant entre 0.07 et 0.84. On a resolu les equations combinees relativement au transfert de force vive et masse et trouve qu'elles concordaient tres bien avec les resultats du travail experimental. Dans toutes leg experiences, l'ecart moyen de la theorie a ete de 6.44%. Les resultats theoriques ont demontre que l'augmentation du transfert de masse etait proportionnel au carre de l'ampli-tude et dependait d'une maniere complexe des nombres de Reynolds et Schmidt.
LNG safety research in the U.S.A.

Abstract This paper describes recent LNG safety research activities in the United States. Most of these activities have been sponsored by the U.S. Department of 1. Hazard assessment. These are projects aimed at the development of experimental data and analytical models to describe radiation from LNG spill f 2. Accident prevention. These are studies directed toward the development of qualification tests and reliable data on the properties and behavior o 3. Hazard control. These are projects which address the conceptual design, testing and engineering development of new or improved response technolo
Endoanal advancement flap repair for complex anorectal fistulas.

Abstract Background: Most anorectal fistulas may be safely and reliably treated by fistulotomy. However, certain complex fistulas (eg, rectovaginal fistulas, high transsphincteric tracts, Crohn’s disease) are not well suited to this technique. Few satisfactory alternatives exist. The aim of this study was to assess the utility of endoanal advancement flap repair for these difficult fistulas. Methods: Thirty-three consecutive patients underwent endoanal advancement flap repair of a complex anorectal fistula. Patients were followed up via a prospective database. Demographic information, the presence of previous fistula surgery, and surgical complications were noted. Patients were closely followed up until healing of the fistula or treatment failure was noted. Results: The overall initial healing rate was 81% (27 of 33). However, 3 patients with perianal Crohn’s disease ultimately developed a recurrent fistula. There were no major complications and two minor urinary complications. No patient required hospital readmission, and there were no new problems with fecal incontinence. No patient required a colostomy. Conclusion: Endoanal advancement flap repair is effective in a variety of difficult, complicated anorectal fistulas. Since the morbidity is quite low, it should be attempted prior to fecal diversion, when possible, in these settings.
Use of donors over 60 years old in liver transplantation: A decision and cost-effectiveness analysis

Abstract Introduction: Utilization of grafts from donors greater than 60 years old (older donors [OD]) presumably decreases wait time and improves overall survival; however, OD recipients have shortened survival, increased rejection and retransplantation. We examined the cost-effectiveness of using OD compared to donors less than 60 (younger donors [YD]) in liver transplantation. Methods: A Markov-based decision analytic model was created to simulate outcomes for liver transplantation with donors >60 versus donors Results: OD accounts for 10% of all transplants with a five-year survival of 60% versus 71% for YD (P = 0.003). After transplantation, recipients of OD averaged 4.7 QALYs (Quality Adjusted Life Years) at a cost of $69,000/QALY versus 5.7 QALYs at $56,000/QALY for YD. The wait list strategy combining OD and YD offers 5.6 QALYs at $57,000/QALY. Even assuming a 25% increase in wait list death with the elimination of OD, the YD strategy provides an average of 5.6 QALYs at $56,000/QALY to recipients. Conclusions: The current strategy combining OD and YD donors in the general donor pool offers no added benefit to overall survival and decreases the individual survival of some recipients. OD organs could be used more effectively in an alternative list for those with more controversial indications for transplantation.
Protein Kinase C-mediated Phosphorylation and Functional Regulation of Dopamine Transporters in Striatal Synaptosomes

Dopamine transporters (DATs) are members of a family of Na+- and Cl--dependent neurotransmitter transporters responsible for the rapid clearance of dopamine from synaptic clefts. The predicted primary sequence of DAT contains numerous consensus phosphorylation sites. In this report we demonstrate that DATs undergo endogenous phosphorylation in striatal synaptosomes that is regulated by activators of protein kinase C. Rat striatal synaptosomes were metabolically labeled with [32P]orthophosphate, and solubilized homogenates were subjected to immunoprecipitation with an antiserum specific for DAT. Basal phosphorylation occurred in the absence of exogenous treatments, and the phosphorylation level was rapidly increased when synaptosomes were treated with the phosphatase inhibitors okadaic acid or calyculin. Treatment of synaptosomes with the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) also increased the level of phosphate incorporation. This occurred within 10 min and was dosedependent between 0.1 and 1 microM PMA. DAT phosphorylation was also significantly increased by two other protein kinase C activators, (-)-indolactam V and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol. The inactive phorbol ester 4alpha-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate at 10 microM was without effect, and PMA-induced phosphorylation was blocked by treatment of synaptosomes with the protein kinase C inhibitors staurosporine and bisindoylmaleimide. These results indicate that DATs undergo rapid in vivo phosphorylation in response to protein kinase C activation and that a robust mechanism exists in synaptosomes for DAT dephosphorylation. Dopamine transport activity in synaptosomes was reduced by all treatments that promoted DAT phosphorylation, with comparable dose, time, and inhibitor characteristics. The change in transport activity was produced by a reduction in Vmax with no significant effect on the Km for dopamine. These results suggest that synaptosomal dopamine transport activity is regulated by phosphorylation of DAT and present a potential mechanism for local neuronal control of synaptic neurotransmitter levels and consequent downstream neural activity.
Moiré of crack-opening interferometry in adhesive fracture mechanics

A moire of crack-opening interference patterns, accomplished in real time with digital image processing of video images, is used to subtract the residual-stress effects due to the mismatch of thermomechanical properties and cure shrinkage that are usually present in bonded systems. The technique was used to measure the opening-mode strain-energy-release ratese associated with a number of interface cracks in a blister-test configuration. The results are compared with an approximate analysis for the total strain-energy-release rate.
Increasing the Relevance of Curricular and Student Services in the Urban Community College

As one of the country's biggest and most diverse institutions of higher education, Miami Dade College (MDC) has also grown into a leader among urban community colleges operating in very similar conditions. Here, MDC President Eduardo J. Padron summarizes the extra measures behind a graduation rate that is among the highest for this sector of the most underprepared postsecondary students.
Failure of hog thyrocalcitonin to elicit hypocalcemia in the teleost fish, Fundulus heteroclitus

Abstract 1. 1. Hog thyrocalcitonin was administered to three physiologically different groups of male Fundulus heteroclitus at a dose of 0·2 mg (2–4 units) per g wt. of fish. Group 1 were intact fish maintained in salt water and fed; Group 2 were intact fish adapted to fresh water (low clacium) and starved for the final week; Group 3 were hypophysectomized fish maintained in salt water, and fed. 2. 2. Within each group there were no significant differences in serum-soluble calcium between controls and hormone-treated fish. 3. 3. Neither the time to autopsy (1–4 hr) nor the site of the injection (intraperitoneal or intravenous) had any effect. 4. 4. Differences between the three groups could be related to the state of maturation of the testes.
Study of Flow Structures and Heat Transfer in Parallel Fins With Dimples and Protrusions Using Large Eddy Simulation

Flow field and heat transfer for parallel fins with dimples and protrusions are predicted with large-eddy simulations at a nominal Reynolds number based on fin pitch of 15,000. Dimple and protrusion depth and imprint diameter to channel height ratio are 0.4 and 2.0, respectively. The results show that on the dimple side, the flow and heat transfer is dominated by unsteady vorticity generated and ejected out by the separated shear layer in the dimple. The high turbulent energy which results from the unsteady dynamics is mostly responsible for heat transfer augmentation on the dimple side. A maximum augmentation of about 4 occurs in the reattachment zone of the dimple and immediately downstream of it. On the protrusion side, however, the augmentation in heat transfer is dominated by flow impingement at the front of the protrusion, which results in a maximum augmentation of 5.2. The overall heat transfer and friction coefficient augmentations of 2.34 and 6.35 are calculated for this configuration. Pressure drag from the dimple cavity and protrusion contribute 82% of the total pressure drop.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Predicting Indonesian Journalists' use of public relations-generated news material

Abstract The news media are the main channel for public relations practitioners to get messages across to their publics. In recent years, little research was conducted on predicting journalists' use of public relations news material. As the largest Southeast Asian and the world's most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia presents a complex media and public relations environment. This study found fundamental tenets in journalism, however, which remain the most important factors in predicting the use and acceptance of public relations-generated news materials. At the same time, however, business interests have highly significant effect on journalists. Informal relations can also influence their use.