cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of diastereomers and structural analogs of angiotensins I and II.

Abstract Diastereomers, α- and β-aspartic acid forms, and partial sequences of angiotensin I and II were resolved by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Nearly all of the peptides which were examined contained significant amounts of peptides whose amino acid composition differed from the designated peptide. This chromatographic procedure combined with amino acid analysis clearly offers the investigator a rapid method for analyzing and quantifying the purity of angiotensins which are intended for use as reference substances for radioimmunoassay and biological assay.
Design and synthesis of photoresponsive poly(benzyl ester) dendrimers with all-azobenzene repeating units.

A novel class of dendrons and dendrimers containing all-azobenzene units (up to 29 azobenzene groups) was designed and synthesized by the convergent method using a protected orthogonal AB2 monomer (10) and tetra-functionalized core (11) as building blocks. The preparation of the key monomer (10) involved condensation of a protected nitroso compound (9) and 5-aminoisophthalic acid. These are the first examples of photoresponsive dendrimers with all-azobenzene repeating units.
Magnetically actuated optical phase modulator

In this paper, the design, calculation, fabrication, characterization and analysis of a magnetically actuated optical phase modulators are presented. We discuss scaling of the flexible mirrors to micron dimensions and the potential for fabrication of monolithically integrated modulators on silicon.
Bicarbonate Coordinates to Mn3+ during Photo-Assembly of the Catalytic Mn4Ca Core of Photosynthetic Water Oxidation: EPR Characterization

Assembly of the catalytic cluster, Mn4CaO x Cl y , comprising the water-oxidizing complex (WOC) of photosystem II (PSII), occurs during biogenesis in the presence of the apo-WOC-PSII complex, Mn2+, Ca2+ and Cl− cofactors under weak illumination. The in vitro assembly process known as photo-activation involves several intermediates that have been resolved in previous kinetic studies. (Bi)carbonate has been shown to stimulate the rate of formation and yield of the first stable light-induced Mn3+ assembly intermediate (IM1) from Mn2+ bound to the high-affinity assembly site in apo-WOC-PSII. 13C electron spin echo envelope modulation has previously revealed that (bi)carbonate is a ligand to this Mn2+. Herein, we use parallel-mode electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to characterize the Mn3+ photoproduct, which exists as a ternary complex with carbonate at the high-affinity assembly site (in the absence of Ca2+) formulated as [CO3-Mn3+-apo-WOC-PSII]. The EPR-derived spectral parameters of IM1 (the g value, 55Mn hyperfine coupling constant (A Z) and the ligand-field splitting parameters D/E) are independent of solution pH, in marked contrast to their strong pH dependence in the absence of bicarbonate. (Bi)carbonate coordination “chemically isolates” the IM1 from external pH changes, much like that caused by Ca2+ coordination, revealing similar roles in photo-assembly. The cumulative results reveal that (bi)carbonate and Ca2+ coordination control the ligand field strength and symmetry around the initial high-affinity Mn3+, consistent with the possible formation of a μ2-oxide bridge in IM1, [Mn3+(O2−)Ca2+]. These events greatly improve the quantum yield of subsequent steps in photo-assembly.
Molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 associated neurodegeneration

Since identification of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), numerous studies suggest a link between neurological impairments, in particular dementia, with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) with alarming occurrence worldwide. Approximately, 60% of HIV-infected people show some form of neurological impairment, and neuropathological changes are found in 90% of autopsied cases. Approximately 30% of untreated HIV-infected persons may develop dementia. The mechanisms behind these pathological changes are still not understood. Mounting data obtained byin vivo andin vitro experiments suggest that neuronal apoptosis is a major feature of HIV associated dementia (HAD), which can occur in the absence of direct infection of neurons. The major pathway of neuronal apoptosis occurs indirectly through release of neurotoxins by activated cells in the central nervous system (CNS) involving the induction of excitotoxicity and oxidative stress. In addition a direct mechanism induced by viral proteins in the pathogenesis of HAD may also play a role. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms of HIV-associated dementia and possible therapeutic strategies.
Forms of Becoming: The Evolutionary Biology of Development

Review of Forms of Becoming: The Evolutionary Biology of Development. Alessandro Minelli. 2009. Princeton University Press, Princeton and London. Pp. 242, 17 line drawings. US$29.95 (cloth). ISBN 9780691135687.
RESULTS OF A VESICOURETERAL REFLUX PRACTICE PATTERN SURVEY AMONG AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS, SECTION ON PEDIATRIC UROLOGY MEMBERS

AbstractPurpose: We evaluated practice patterns among urologists managing vesicoureteral reflux, and identified areas of consensus and controversy requiring further research.Materials and Methods: A 1-page questionnaire addressing various aspects of reflux management, including screening, diagnosis, treatment and followup, was mailed to a cohort of 225 practicing urologists identified by the membership roster of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Pediatric Urology. Coded returned mailers were blindly analyzed and tabulated by 2 reviewers. Questionnaires were subdivided using a coding system by decade (1970s or earlier, 1980s and so forth) of participant membership in the American Urological Association. Select questions were analyzed to determine whether time of training affected the response.Results: Of 225 surveys 155 were returned and usable (overall 60.8% response rate). General agreement exists regarding several important points in the management of vesicoureteral reflux, including evalua...
Pain perception in self-injurious patients with borderline personality disorder

Pain ratings during the cold pressor test were significantly lower in female inpatients with borderline personality disorder who report that they do not experience pain during self-injury (BPD-NP group, n = 11), compared with similar patients who report that they do experience pain during self-injury (BPD-P group, n = 11), and normal female subjects (n = 6). Pain ratings were not significantly different in the BPD-P and normal control groups. Self-report ratings of depression, anger, anxiety, and confusion were significantly lower, and ratings of vigor significantly higher following the cold pressor test in the BPD-NP group, but not in the BPD-P group. Only anxiety was significantly lower in the normal control group following the cold pressor test. The implications and limitations of these preliminary findings are discussed.
Influence of increased environmental temperature on blood sugar of dogs following administration of carbohydrate.

SummaryThese findings indicate that exposure to high environmental temperature does not influence the digestion and absorption of carbohydrate in the dog, as far as the blood sugar content is concerned. Moreover, no relation is apparent between the blood sugar level and increased environmental temperature.
Warm ischemia less than 30 minutes is not necessarily safe during partial nephrectomy: Every minute matters

Abstract Objective At the 11th Annual Meeting of the Society of Urologic Oncology (SUO), an expert panel discussed the importance of warm ischemia time on renal function during partial nephrectomy. The position of this manuscript is that every minute of warm ischemia time has a deleterious effect on renal function outcomes following partial nephrectomy. Materials and methods The presentation was derived from a review of the published urologic, nephrology, and transplant literature related to warm ischemia time and renal function outcomes. Results There exist numerous clinical models to study the effects of warm ischemia on renal function. These include the bilateral kidney, unilateral partial nephrectomy, solitary kidney partial nephrectomy, and transplant kidney model. Each of these models provides evidence for minimizing warm ischemia time to prevent acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, and end stage renal failure. In the best available model, solitary kidney partial nephrectomy, each minute of warm ischemia was found to be associated with a 6% increased risk of acute renal failure, 7% increased risk of acute-onset end stage renal disease (ESRD), and 4% increased risk of new-onset ESRD while controlling for preoperative renal function, tumor size, and surgical approach. Conclusions There is ample evidence, consistent across multiple human kidney models, supporting the potentially deleterious renal effects of warm ischemia during partial nephrectomy. There does not appear to be a known safe threshold of warm ischemia since each minute sequentially contributes to the risk of developing acute kidney injury and renal function decline. Ultimate renal function following PN is dependent on the “3 Qs”: quality (renal function prior to surgery), quantity (renal parenchyma preserved during surgery), and quickness (ischemia time).
Performance of shot-noise limited optical communications in presence of intersymbol interference

Results are presented for the average error probability of shot-noise limited on-off-keying optical communications in the presence of intersymbol interference. An expression for a near-optimum detection threshold is given and the results of evaluating the probability of error for this threshold are shown.
The Path Forward: Silicon Electro-Optical Interface for Modern Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Integrated Circuits (CMOS ICs)

In this paper a review of the design and properties of silicon light emitting devices fabricated in conventional CMOS/BiCMOS IC process technology is given. The performance of both two-and three-terminal Si-LEDs for monolithic integration in optoelectronic systems is described, followed by a discussion of the differences observed between avalanche LED (i.e., two terminal device, diode) and field emission LED (i. e., three-terminal device, gate-controlled diode).
Quantitative evaluation of the Microsoft Kinect TM for use in an upper extremity virtual rehabilitation environment

Low cost depth sensors could potentially allow for home-based care and rehabilitation using virtual systems. Currently, no publicly available and peer-reviewed assessment has been made on the accuracy of joint position data determined by the Microsoft KinectTM for assessment of upper extremity movements. We devised and validated clinically-based angle classifications for random arm movements in 3D-space, specifically, the shoulder joint flexion/extension angle, shoulder joint abduction/adduction angle, and 3-dimensional shoulder joint angle of 19 subjects at a distance of 2.0m using an eight camera Vicon Motion Capture system. Results show an average absolute error of these angle measurements not exceeding 10.0%.
The Relationship of Milk Energy and Total Protein to Per Cent Fat in Brown Swiss Herd Milk

Summary An analysis of the relationships between Calories per kilogram and per cent fat and between per cent total protein and per cent fat has been made from data based on detailed analytical determinations of the chemical composition and energy content of 494 samples of Brown Swiss herd milk.
Bilateral Apical vs Nonapical Stapling Resection During Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

Study Objectives To determine whether biapical stapling resection alone or resection of diseased, nonapical areas of emphysematous lung provides comparable physiologic outcomes or alters morbidity and mortality after lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS). Design Consecutive case-series analysis. Setting Urban university hospital. Patients Forty-seven patients ([mean ± SD] aged 58 ± 8 years; 18 men) with severe emphysema (FEV 1 , 0.7 ± 0.2 L; total lung capacity [TLC], 139 ± 23% predicted). Interventions Thirty-two patients underwent biapical LVRS, 27 by median sternotomy (MS) and 5 by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), and 15 underwent nonapical resection, 9 by MS and 6 by VATS. Patients were assessed for postoperative complications (respiratory tract infections, air leak duration, and death), length of stay, and physiologic parameters, which included a 6-min walk distance, spirometry, lung volume, gas exchange, diaphragm strength, and quality-of-life measures. Measurements and Results Patients were studied at baseline and at 3 months postoperatively. At the preoperative baseline, both groups had similar ages (57 vs 60 years; p = 0.2), 6-min walk distance (294 vs 263 m; p = 0.3), FEV 1 (28% vs 29% predicted; p = 0.6), degree of hyperinflation (TLC, 138% vs 141% predicted; p = 0.8), gas exchange (PaO 2 /fraction of inspired oxygen, 344 vs 313, p = 0.1; PaCO 2 46 vs 48 mm Hg, p = 0.4), and diaphragm strength (maximal transdiaphragmatic pressure sniff, 54 vs 46 cm H 2 O, p = 0.4). Resected tissue weight was similar in both groups (94 vs 93 g, p = 0.9). There were no differences in the mean percentage of change from baseline for these physiologic parameters or for quality-of-life measures between the two groups. The 6-min walk distances increased by 20% and 33%, FEV 1 increased by 37% and 38%, the degrees of hyperinflation (residual volume/TLC) decreased by 16% and 15%, and the quality-of-life scores improved by 51% and 41%, respectively, in the groups that underwent biapical and nonapical resections at 3 months post-LVRS. The length of stay in the hospital for LVRS (18 vs 23 days; p = 0.4) and the duration of air leak (10 vs 15 days; p = 0.4) were also similar. Complications between the two groups (biapical vs nonapical) were similar (respiratory tract infection, 47% vs 60%, p = 0.2; reintubation, 34% vs 33%, p = 0.2; reoperation, 9% vs 20%, p = 0.4; and death, 9% vs 7%, p = 0.2). Conclusions LVRS, by biapical or nonapical resection, produces similar improvements in lung function, exercise, diaphragm strength, and quality of life, with comparable morbidity and mortality.
Electrochemical detection of p-ethylguaiacol, a fungi infected fruit volatile using metal oxide nanoparticles

Nanoparticles of TiO2 or SnO2 on screen-printed carbon (SP) electrodes have been developed for evaluating their potential application in the electrochemical sensing of volatiles in fruits and plants. These metal oxide nanoparticle-modified electrodes possess high sensitivity and low detection limit for the detection of p-ethylguaiacol, a fingerprint compound present in the volatile signature of fruits and plants infected with a pathogenic fungus Phytophthora cactorum. The electroanalytical data obtained using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry showed that both SnO2 and TiO2 exhibited high sensitivity (174–188 μA cm−2 mM−1) and low detection limits (35–62 nM) for p-ethylguaiacol detection. The amperometric detection was highly repeatable with RSD values ranging from 2.48 to 4.85%. The interference studies show that other common plant volatiles do not interfere in the amperometric detection signal of p-ethylguaiacol. The results demonstrate that metal oxides are a reasonable alternative to expensive electrode materials such as gold or platinum for amperometric sensor applications.
Throughput analysis of multi-hop relaying: The optimal rate and the optimal number of hops

In this paper, we consider a half-duplex decode-and-forward multi-hop relay network. The model for the channel that we consider includes path loss, shadowing, and fast fading. For this system and channel model, we find the outage probability for the multi-hop relay communication strategy that allows a packet to follow any path through the relays in the network. Based on the outage probability and the rate that used in the network, we find the exact throughput of the system. From this understanding of the system throughput, we find the optimal operating rate and the optimal number of hops that maximize the throughput. We also consider a system in which the relays have buffers that allow them to delay transmission and transmit when the channel conditions are favorable. We compare the system throughput of this buffer-equipped multi-hop relay network with the conventional multihop relay network without buffers.
Multiphoton ionization of methyl radicals in CH4 pyrolysis

The technique of resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization has been applied to in situ detection of methyl radicals in high-temperature atmospheric pressure CH4 pyrolysis. The detection is via three-photon ionization using two-photon resonances to the 3p 2A″2 state of CH3 at 333.5 and 329.5 nm for the 000 and 211 bands, respectively. Deuterium isotope shifts in both bands are also observed in CD4 pyrolysis. The detection sensitivity is estimated to be at the ppm level. The methyl radical concentration profiles are measured as a function of reaction time.
The Use of Social Media and Citizen Science to Identify, Track, and Report Birds

This study involved the use of social media, Twitter, Citizen Science, and the knowledge of indigenous birds. Subjects were 43 senior, elementary, pre-service teachers at a large public university in Southwest Alabama, United States. The elementary, pre-service teachers took a researcher designed pre/posttest about Citizen Science, characteristics of birds, and types of birds spotted at their school, home, and university. There was a positive significant difference between the pre and posttests. The elementary, pre-service teachers were required to watch birds, take pictures/videos of birds, identify the birds, and tweet this information to a twitter address @Watchdabirds. Informal interviews with the elementary, pre-service teachers indicated an increase in the awareness of birds at their home, neighborhood, and school and enjoyment in tweeting the results of the birding.
The Averaged Face Growth Rates of lysozyme Crystals: The Effect of Temperature

Measurements of the averaged or macroscopic face growth rates of lysozyme crystals are reported here for the (110) face of tetragonal lysozyme, at three sets of pH and salt concentrations, with temperatures over a 4-22 C range for several protein concentrations. The growth rate trends with supersaturation were similar to previous microscopic growth rate measurements. However, it was found that at high super-saturations the growth rates attain a maximum and then start decreasing. No 'dead zone' was observed but the growth rates were found to approach zero asymptotically at very low super-saturations. The growth rate data also displayed a dependence on pH and salt concentration which could not be characterized solely by the super-saturation. A complete mechanism for lysozyme crystal growth, involving the formation of an aggregate growth unit, mass transport of the growth unit to the crystal interface and faceted crystal growth by growth unit addition, is suggested. Such a mechanism may provide a more consistent explanation for the observed growth rate trends than those suggested by other investigators. The nutrient solution interactions leading to the formation of the aggregate growth unit may, thus, be as important as those occurring at the crystal interface and may account for the differences between small molecule and protein crystal growth.
Antifungal activity of voriconazole (UK-109,496), fluconazole and amphotericin B against hematogenous Candida krusei infection in neutropenic guinea pig model

AbstractVoriconazole (UK-109,496) is a new triazole with in vitro activity against a wide spectrum of fungi including yeasts intrinsically resistant to fluconazole such as Candida krusei. In this study the efficacy of voriconazole was compared to amphotericin B and fluconazole in a neutropenic guinea pig model of hematogenously disseminated C. krusei infection. In guinea pigs, neutropenia was established by using cyclophosphamide (intraperitoneally, i.p., 100 mg/kg on day 1 and 4), and dexamethasone (orally, 2 mg/kg/day, for 8 days). Neutropenic guinea pigs were infected with 0.5 ml of yeast cell suspension (1×108 CFU) intravenously. Challenged animals were treated with antifungals starting 1 h postinfection for 7 days. The animals were divided into five groups: untreated control, amphotericin B (1 mg/kg i.p. on alternate days), fluconazole (20 mg/kg orally twice daily), and voriconazole (two groups: 5 and 10 mg/kg orally twice daily) groups. Guinea pigs were sacrificed 1 day after the last treatment. Bra...
Sense-making activities and interpersonal conflict: Communicative cures for the mulling blues

Cognitive and communicative activities directed toward understanding disputes in ongoing relationships are argued to influence perceptions of problem seriousness and partner responsibility. In the present study, results associated with major conflicts suggest mulling about disputes increases perceived severity of conflicts and the likelihood partners are blamed. Frequent communication activity and integrative interactions attenuated the negative effects of prolonged thought, whereas discussions characterized by distributiveness magnified the repercussions associated with conflict related thought. These relationships were not apparent in minor problem contexts, and avoidant behaviors during conflict interactions had no effect on the impact of mulling. Discussion of implications focuses on the impact of sense‐making activities on defining conflicts, conflict resolution strategies, and directions for future research.
Cosinor-based rhythmometry

A brief overview is provided of cosinor-based techniques for the analysis of time series in chronobiology. Conceived as a regression problem, the method is applicable to non-equidistant data, a major advantage. Another dividend is the feasibility of deriving confidence intervals for parameters of rhythmic components of known periods, readily drawn from the least squares procedure, stressing the importance of prior (external) information. Originally developed for the analysis of short and sparse data series, the extended cosinor has been further developed for the analysis of long time series, focusing both on rhythm detection and parameter estimation. Attention is given to the assumptions underlying the use of the cosinor and ways to determine whether they are satisfied. In particular, ways of dealing with non-stationary data are presented. Examples illustrate the use of the different cosinor-based methods, extending their application from the study of circadian rhythms to the mapping of broad time structures (chronomes).
True time-delay fiber-optic control of a phased-array transmitter with three-octave bandwidth

We demonstrate a true time-delay fiber-optically controlled phased-array transmitter with eight broadband spiral elements in a sparsely-populated array. The transmitter bandwidth is microwave-component limited to the 2-18 GHz frequency range. The transmitter shows /spl plusmn/50/spl deg/ azimuth steering with no observed squint over a complete frequency range. >
Acute Immune Polyneuropathies: Correlations of Serum Antibodies to Campylobacter jejuni and Helicobacter pylori with Anti-GM1 Antibodies and Clinical Patterns of Disease

Antecedent Campylobacter jejuni infection, detected by serologic tests, has been implicated in some acute immune polyneuropathies (AIP). Antibodies to Helicobacter pylori, C. jejuni, and GM1 ganglioside were measured in sera from 35 Chinese patients with AIP. Anti-GM1 antibodies were found in 54% of C. jejuni-seropositive, H. pylori-seronegative patients. In contrast, anti-GM1 antibodies were rare in sera that were either seropositive for both C. jejuni and H. pylori (P = .04) or seronegative for C. jejuni (P = .01). Motor axonal AIP was more common in the C. jejuni-seropositive, H. pylori-seronegative patients (82%) than in the bacterial antibody-negative group (38%). It was concluded that in AIP patients, C. jejuni-positive sera may be polyreactive, in that it may also react with H. pylori. In this situation, the specificity for either infection requires further validation. In contrast, sera with specific C. jejuni seropositivity are associated with both motor axonal AIP and selective serum IgG anti-GM1 antibodies.
Air Traffic Demand Forecast at a Commercial Airport using Bayesian Networks

Inaccurate air traffic demand forecasts complicate the task of transformation and modernization of next generation air traffic control system. Several approaches have been developed using causal-effect modeling method and probabilistic methods to quantify the uncertainty in predictive variables. However, these forecast methods do not consider airport capacity constraints as a predictive variable; thus, traffic demand forecasts could be produced that have traffic beyond airport capacity. In this paper a Bayesian Networks (BNs) model is employed that not only considers airport capacity constraints but also represents interactions between multiple factors. In addition, a case study in the O’Hare airport has been conducted. The findings indicate that the BNs model allows one to analyze how multiple factors affect traffic demand and graphically represent their interrelationships.
The bioassay of thyrotropin in serum.

A bioassay technique for thyrotropin in serum was developed from that of Adams and Purves. Mice were injected with I131 and then had endogenous thyrotropin suppressed by the administration of thyroxine followed by thyroid powder. The effect of an intravenous injection of thyrotropin or the test sub-stance was measured by the percentage increase in blood I131. This had a linear relationship to the logarithm of the dose. Sensitivity of 0.025 mu., with an injec-tion volume of 0.5 ml., and an average index of precision (λ) of 0.24 were achieved With this technique thyrotropin in the sera of 6 patients with myxedema was measured. Endogenous thyrotropic activity was shown to travel on electrophoresis with gamma globulin of such sera and was also present only in the gamma globulin fraction (II) of Cohn fractions of human plasma.
COCULTURE OF ANTERIOR AND POSTERIOR PITUITARY CELLS : SELECTIVE STIMULATION OF LACTOTROPHS

There is extensive evidence that the posterior pituitary (PP) participates in the regulation of PRL secretion. We recently reported that a putative PRL-releasing factor is localized, and possibly produced, in the intermediate lobe of the PP. The aim of the present investigation was to determine whether cultured PP cells affect anterior pituitary (AP) function in terms of cell content and cumulative release of PRL. Anterior and posterior pituitaries from adult male rats were dispersed with trypsin and cultured either alone or together for 4 and 8 days in serum-free medium. The concentrations of PRL, GH, and LH in cell extracts and culture media were measured by RIA. Coculturing of AP and PP cells at different plating densities resulted in a 2-fold rise in PRL cell content after 4 days. The cumulative release of PRL in the cocultures was significantly increased only after 8 days. LH and GH were affected slightly, or not at all. Medium conditioned by PP cells mimicked the effects of coculture on the cumulati...
Outline of the energetics of stream-transportation of solids

The value of the theorems of energy in dealing with problems in the mechanics of real fluids is well known. The failure of energetic analysis to yield the equations of motion does not preclude the achievement of useful results through its application to those problems for which such equations cannot be obtained; and in this category may be placed most problems of consequence in fluid mechanics. The theorems of energy are useful in dealing with such problems because all internal motions and forces may be disregarded and only the energy-changes of the whole system considered. In other words, only the boundary-conditions need be known.
Wireless Telegraphy and the Ionization in the Upper Atmosphere

A non-mathematical survey is given of the theory of the upper atmosphere and the behavior of wireless waves. The new physics of the atmosphere based on heating by the sun, cooling at night, winds, gaseous diffusion, etc., the observations of the heights reached by wireless waves, the skip distances, ranges, polarization, etc., led to the conclusion that the ionization in the upper atmosphere was caused by the ultra-violet light of the sun and that the electron density had a maximum value of about 3×l05at 190 km for summer noon. The calculated ionization agreed well with the wireless facts during the day but fell off too rapidly at night. Below the maximum the ionization was not known exactly. The diamagnetic theory of the diurnal variation in the earth's magnetism called for an ion density of about 5×109from about 150 to 190 km. The drift currents of the ions, due to the earth's gravitation and magnetism, causes the sunset longitude to be at a potential of about 2000 volts above that of the sunrise longitude. This voltage, combined with the earth's magnetic field, causes the ions and electrons to rise at night. They move up into regions of lower molecular density where their recombination is less. Their rate of loss at night is about right to agree with the wireless facts. It is pointed out that quantitative experiments with waves between 70 and 400 meters, of which there have been very few, might contribute valuable information about the ionization.
The effects of unmodeled forces on robot control

The implementation feasibility and performance improvement potential of techniques for compensation of six degree of freedom manipulator forces unmodeled by Lagrange-Euler dynamics have been evaluated on a PUMA manipulator by analysis of their impact on the accuracy of the computed-torque control algorithm. The effects of improved inertial parameter measurements, feedforward friction compensation and PD and PID feedback strategies have been identified. More accurate inertial parameters have negligible impact on trajectory tracking ability. Implementation of nonlinear friction compensation in the feedforward loop is undesirable. Feedback compensation techniques permit tracking accuracy sufficient for gross motion control of a PUMA manipulator without additional instrumentation.
Efavirenz Plasma Concentrations and Cytochrome 2B6 Polymorphisms

Background:Interpatient variability in efavirenz concentrations may be due to CYP2B6 genetic polymorphisms. Efavirenz concentration and pharmacogenomic data are scarce in Latino patients.Objective:To evaluate the difference in trough and midpoint efavirenz plasma concentrations between HIV-positive Latino and white patients. In addition, this study evaluated the association between efavirenz concentrations and CYP2B6 polymorphisms in Latino and white HIV-positive subjects.Methods:This pilot study included 10 Latinos and 10 whites. Two efavirenz blood concentrations were determined: a trough and a midpoint. CYP2B6 genetic polymorphisms were analyzed at the 516 (G to T) and 785 (A to G) codons. The Mann-Whitney test was used to determine whether efavirenz concentrations varied with ethnicity. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine whether efavirenz concentrations varied with CYP2B6 genetic polymorphisms. Efavirenz concentrations were expressed as medians (minimum, maximum).Results:Midpoint concentrat...
Effect of grip location, arm support, and muscle stretch on sustained finger flexor activity following stroke

After gripping an object with the affected hand, stroke survivors may experience difficulty in relaxing the hand to release the object. The goals of this study were: 1) to quantify the severity of this problem by measuring the time needed to terminate a grip activity (grip termination time) and 2) to examine the effect of factors such as grip location, external arm support, and muscle stretch on grip termination time for the affected hand. Ten subjects with chronic hemiparesis subsequent to stroke grasped a cylinder with maximum effort for 5 seconds and then attempted to relax the fingers as quickly as possible. Finger flexor muscle activity was recorded. Grip termination time was defined as the time required for the finger flexor activity to drop to the initial (pre-exertion) level. Grip termination time for the affected hand (6.1 seconds) was three times greater than that for the unaffected hand (2.1 seconds). Reduction of required activation of proximal arm muscles through use of a gravity-compensating arm orthosis decreased the grip termination time for the affected hand (p<0.05). Conversely, active muscle stretch increased grip termination time. Therapies and treatment methods which reduce the delay in terminating finger flexor muscle activity may increase functional independence for stroke survivors.
CLINICAL UNDER STAGING OF HIGH RISK NONMUSCLE INVASIVE UROTHELIAL CARCINOMA TREATED WITH RADICAL CYSTECTOMY

Purpose: The role of radical cystectomy in patients with nonmuscle invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder remains controversial. The risk of overtreatment must be balanced against the potential benefit of aggressive therapy. We reviewed our results in these patients with a particular emphasis on clinical under staging.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the records of 214 consecutive patients who underwent radical cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma between April 1995 and August 1999, focusing on those with nonmuscle invasive, stages T1 or less disease. We assessed clinical and pathological data as well as outcomes based on pathological disease extent.Results: A total of 78 patients (36%) underwent radical cystectomy for clinical stages T1 or less disease. Indications included disease refractory to intravesical therapy in 29 cases (37%), pathological findings reflective of high grade stage T1 or multifocal disease in 26 (33%), radiographic suspicion of invasive disease in 15 (20%) and severe symptoms...
Object-oriented language taxonomy

An attempt is made to categorize various object-oriented languages, in order to compare their distinct features. Various features of Smalltalk, Eiffel, and C++, which are the languages most associated with the object-oriented methodology, are investigated. >
Optic vesicle defects induced by vincristine sulfate: An in vivo and in vitro study in the mouse embryo

The optic vesicle develops from cuboidal neuroepithelial cells which become high-columnar, then become wedge-shaped. Vincristine sulfate, a microtubule inhibitor, was used to study the role of microtubules in optic vesicle formation. Swiss-Webster mice were injected with vincristine sulfate on the eighth day of gestation, placebo females received an equivalent volume of saline, and additional females were not injected. All embryos were harvested on the 10th day of gestation. Additional embryos were cultured by the whole embryo culture technique described by New et al. ('73) beginning on the ninth day of gestation for 24 hours. When embryos were harvested on the 10th day of gestation, crown-rump lengths, developmental stage, and the number of visible anomalies were recorded. Embryos were then examined using light, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy. Embryos exposed to vincristine sulfate in vivo or in vitro were significantly smaller and developmentally delayed when compared to the control groups. The embryos treated in vivo appeared to be more severely affected than those exposed in vitro. Observed malformations were similar in both experimental groups, and consisted mainly of closure defects of the cephalic neural folds and defective formation of the optic vesicles. The optic vesicle defects ranged from complete absence to asymmetrical development. Microtubules appeared to be disorganized, S-shaped, or incorporated into paracrystalline inclusion structures.
VOLVOX BARBERI, THE FASTEST SWIMMER OF THE VOLVOCALES (CHLOROPHYCEAE)(1).

Volvox barberi W. Shaw is a volvocalean green alga composed of biflagellated cells. Vovocales with 16 cells or more form spherical colonies, and their largest members have germ-soma separation (all species in the genus Volvox). V. barberi is the largest Volvox species recorded in terms of cell number (10,000-50,000 cells) and has the highest somatic to reproductive cell ratio (S/R). Since they are negatively buoyant, Volvocales need flagellar beating to avoid sinking and to reach light and nutrients. We measured V. barberi swimming speed and total swimming force. V. barberi swimming speeds are the highest recorded so far for volvocine algae (~600 μm · s⁻¹). With this speed, V. barberi colonies have the potential to perform daily vertical migrations in the water column at speeds of 2-3 m · h⁻¹, consistent with what has been reported about Volvox populations in the wild. Moreover, V. barberi data fit well in the scaling relationships derived with the other smaller Volvox species, namely, that the upward swimming speed Vup[is proportional to]N⁰.²⁸ and the total swimming force FS[is proportional to]N⁰.⁷⁷ (N = colony cell number). These allometric relationships have been important supporting evidence for reaching the conclusion that as size increases, colonies have to invest in cell specialization and increase their S/R to increase their motility capabilities to stay afloat and motile.
Histaminergic modulation of nonspecific plasticity of the auditory system and differential gating

In the auditory system of the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), paired conditioned tonal (CS) and unconditioned leg stimuli (US) for auditory fear conditioning elicit tone-specific plasticity repre...
Is spatial super-resolution feasible using overlapping projectors?

An interesting issue of contemplation amongst researchers working on multi-projector displays is whether spatial superresolution can be achieved by overlapping images from multiple projectors. This paper presents a thorough theoretical analysis to answer this question using signal processing and perturbation theory. Our analysis is supported by results from a simulated overlapping projector display. This analysis shows that achieving spatial super-resolution using overlapping projectors is practically infeasible.
Metabolic alterations: a biomarker for radiation-induced normal brain injury-an MR spectroscopy study.

Purpose: To assess if interval changes in metabolic status in normal cerebral tissue after radiation therapy (RT) can be detected by 2D CSI (chemical shift imaging) proton spectroscopy. Materials and Methods: Eleven patients with primary brain tumors undergoing cranial radiation therapy (RT) were included. 2D-CSI MRS was performed before, during, and after the course of RT with the following parameters: TE/TR 144/1500 ms, field of view (FOV) 24, thickness 10 mm, matrix 16 16. The metabolic ratios choline/creatine (Cho/Cr), N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/Cr, and NAA/Cho in normal brain tissue were calculated. Results: NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr were significantly decreased at week 3 during RT and at 1 month and 6 months after RT compared to values prior to RT (P 0.01). The NAA/Cr ratio decreased by 0.19 0.05 (mean standard error [SE]) at week 3 of RT, 0.14 0.06 at the last week of RT, 0.14 0.05 at 1 month after RT, and 0.30 0.08 at 6 months after RT compared to the pre-RT value of 1.43 0.04. The Cho/Cr ratio decreased by 0.27 0.05 at week 3 of RT, 0.11 0.05 at the last week of RT, 0.26 0.05 at 1 month after RT and 0.25 0.07 at 6 months after RT from the pre-RT value of 1.29 0.03. Changes in Cho/Cr were correlated with the interaction of the radiation dose and dose-volume at week 3 of RT, during the last week of RT (P 0.005), and at 1 month after RT (P 0.017). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that MRS can detect early metabolic changes in normal irradiated brain tissue.
Motivational intervention to reduce rapid subsequent births to adolescent mothers: a community-based randomized trial.

PURPOSE One-quarter of adolescent mothers bear another child within 2 years, compounding their risk of poorer medical, educational, economic, and parenting outcomes. Most efforts to prevent rapid subsequent birth to teenagers have been unsuccessful but have seldom addressed motivational processes. METHODS We conducted a randomized trial to determine the effectiveness of a computer-assisted motivational intervention (CAMI) in preventing rapid subsequent birth to adolescent mothers. Pregnant teenagers (N = 235), aged 18 years and older who were at more than 24 weeks’ gestation, were recruited from urban prenatal clinics serving low-income, predominantly African American communities. After completing baseline assessments, they were randomly assigned to 3 groups: (1) those in CAMI plus enhanced home visit (n = 80) received a multi-component home-based intervention (CAMI+); (2) those in CAMI−only (n = 87) received a single component home-based intervention; (3) and those in usual-care control (n = 68) received standard usual care. Teens in both intervention groups received CAMI sessions at quarterly intervals until 2 years’ postpartum. Those in the CAMI+ group also received monthly home visits with parenting education and support. CAMI algorithms, based on the transtheoretical model, assessed sexual relationships and contraception-use intentions and behaviors, and readiness to engage in pregnancy prevention. Trained interventionists used CAMI risk summaries to guide motivational interviewing. Repeat birth by 24 months’ postpartum was measured with birth certificates. RESULTS Intent-to-treat analysis indicated that the CAMI+ group compared with the usual-care control group exhibited a trend toward lower birth rates (13.8% vs 25.0%; P = .08), whereas the CAMI-only group did not (17.2% vs 25.0%; P = .32). Controlling for baseline group differences, the hazard ratio (HR) for repeat birth was significantly lower for the CAMI+ group than it was with the usual-care group (HR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.21–0.98). We developed complier average causal effects models to produce unbiased estimates of intervention effects accounting for variable participation. Completing 2 or more CAMI sessions significantly reduced the risk of repeat birth in both groups: CAMI+ (HR = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.16–0.98) and CAMI−only (HR = 0.19; 95% CI, 0.05–0.69). CONCLUSIONS Receipt of 2 or more CAMI sessions, either alone or within a multicomponent home-based intervention, reduced the risk of rapid subsequent birth to adolescent mothers.
Influence of the In-Service Factors on the Serviceability of Graphitized Steel

We compare the regularities of the influence of high (up to 800°С) and low (down to – 40°C) temperatures and corrosive media on the mechanical characteristics of graphitized steel and known 2 and T wheel steels. It is shown that the decrease in the temperature of austenitization and rapid growth of the high-temperature plasticity of steels create more favorable conditions for the formation of slider-type defects on the rolling surfaces of railroad wheels. It is also established that, at low temperatures (down to – 40°C), the graphitized steel is not susceptible to low-temperature embrittlement and the corrosive media do not affect its cyclic crack resistance.
30. Laparoscopic Appendectomy

This chapter discusses the indications for laparoscopic appendectomy and describes the technique of laparoscopic appendectomy. Variations in technique are discussed. Other topics included in the chapter are incidental and interval appendectomy, appendectomy for complicated or perforated appendicitis, and appendectomy in pregnancy.
Metrics for sampling-based motion planning

A motion planner finds a sequence of potential motions for a robot to transit from an initial to a goal state. To deal with the intractability of this problem, a class of methods known as sampling-based planners build approximate representations of potential motions through random sampling. This selective random exploration of the space has produced many remarkable results, including solving many previously unsolved problems. Sampling-based planners usually represent the motions as a graph (e.g., the Probabilistic Roadmap Methods or PRMs), or as a tree (e.g., the Rapidly exploring Random Tree or RRT). Although many sampling-based planners have been proposed, we do not know how to select among them because their different sampling biases make their performance depend on the features of the planning space. Moreover, since a single problem can contain regions with vastly different features, there may not exist a simple exploration strategy that will perform well in every region. Unfortunately, we lack quantitative tools to analyze problem features and planners performance that would enable us to match planners to problems. We introduce novel metrics for the analysis of problem features and planner performance at multiple levels: node level, global level, and region level. At the node level, we evaluate how new samples improve coverage and connectivity of the evolving model. At the global level, we evaluate how new samples improve the structure of the model. At the region level, we identify groups or regions that share similar features. This is a set of general metrics that can be applied in both graph-based and tree-based planners. We show several applications for these tools to compare planners, to decide whether to stop planning or to switch strategies, and to adjust sampling in different regions of the problem.
Screening for Sorghum Line and Hybrid Resistance to Chinch Bug (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae) in the Greenhouse and Growth Chamber

To test methods to screen for resistance, commercial sorghum hybrids and lines were subjected to nymphs and adults of the chinch bug, Blissus leucopterus leucopterus (Say), at the seedling stage in the greenhouse. A hybrid or line that had significantly higher plant mortality in a choice feeding test did not always show the same reaction in a no-choice test. ‘KS 71’ died in fewer days than ‘KS 72’ or ‘BCK 60’ in choice feeding tests, but the three hybrids did not differ in no-choice tests. Hybrids and lines tested in no-choice multiple-plant experiments tended to react to chinch bugs in a manner similar to previously reported field tests. Screening methods in the greenhouse were also compared with those in the growth chamber. Generally, days from infestation to plant death of chinch bug-infested sorghum hybrids or lines did not differ significantly in a greenhouse or growth chamber. Five of 29 hybrid and line comparisons differed significantly from others in the growth chamber and not in the greenhouse, or vice versa. Differences did not tend to occur in one environment and not in the other. Days from infestation to plant death of lines and hybrids in greenhouse versus growth chamber tests agreed with those obtained in field tests. All lines and hybrids were eventually killed by the high chinch bug populations used in the experiments. Greenhouse or growth chamber experiments are equally effective to test for resistance.
Skeletal microstructure, geochemistry, and organic remnants in Cretaceous scleractinian corals: Santonian Gosau Beds of Gosau, Austria

Extremely well-preserved specimens of the species Rennensismilia complanata and Aulosmilia cuneiformis occur in Santonian (Upper Cretaceous) strata of the Lower Gosau beds, near Gosau, Austria. Two of these, here reported, have aragonitic skeletal mineralogy and skeletal structures that are typical for their families, and, in addition, show distribution of trace elements (Sr and Mg above all) that confirm the biogenic origin of structures observed. R. complanata also has proteinaceous matrix preserved within its skeleton, which, seen here for the first time in electron micrographs of living or fossil corals, forms sheaths of organic matrix surrounding bundles of skeletal crystallites. Matrix is most abundant along the axial plane of septa, which also is the first-formed part of each septum. Although A. cuneiformis lacks observable organic matrix materials, its skeletal structure and its distribution and amount of trace elements are analogous to that seen in R. complanata and also in modern corals.