cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Geographic variation in one-year recurrent ischemic stroke rates for elderly Medicare beneficiaries in the USA.

Background: While geographic disparities in stroke mortality are well documented, there are no data describing geographic variation in recurrent stroke. Accordingly, we evaluated geographic variations in 1-year recurrent ischemic stroke rates in the USA with adjustment for patient characteristics. Methods: One-year recurrent stroke rates for ischemic stroke (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision codes 433, 434 and 436) following hospital discharge were calculated by county for all fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries from 2000 to 2002. The rates were standardized and smoothed using a bayesian conditional autoregressive model that was risk-standardized for patients’ age, gender, race/ethnicity, prior hospitalizations, Deyo comorbidity score, acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, dementia, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obesity. Results: The overall 1-year recurrent stroke rate was 9.4% among 895,916 ischemic stroke patients (mean age: 78 years; 56.6% women; 86.6% White, 9.7% Black and 1.2% Latino/Hispanic). The rates varied by geographic region and were highest in the South and in parts of the West and Midwest. Regional variation was present for all racial/ethnic subgroups and persisted after adjustment for individual patient characteristics. Conclusions: Almost 1 in 10 hospitalized ischemic stroke patients was readmitted for an ischemic stroke within 1 year. There was heterogeneity in recurrence patterns by geographic region. Further work is needed to understand the reasons for this regional variability.
Behavior of mixtures of oxophenarsine-resistant and unmodified strains of Trypanosoma equiperdum in the rat.

Abstract An oxophenarsine-resistant strain of T. equiperdum did not maintain itself in a mixture with its unmodified parent strain. The rate of disappearance of the resistant strain was related to the sojourn of the resistant strain in the rat, the resistant strain in its second rat passage disappearing more rapidly than the same strain in its 12th rat passage. A highly resistant strain maintained in rats lost most of its resistance between 6 and 8 months after it was removed from contact with the drug. The same strain maintained in mice continued to be highly resistant.
Religious Affiliation and Individual International-Policy Preferences in the United States

Empirical examination of individual-level survey data on national identity, in general, reveals a significant relationship between religious affiliation and an individual's international-policy preferences and that this relationship varies across Protestant denominations. Specifically, we test attitudes toward import and immigration policies, the role of international institutions, and unilateral policy actions. The empirical results indicate that individuals affiliated with conservative Protestant denominations are more likely to support positions on international issues that can be regarded as consistent with the anti-globalist right. We also find evidence of a reinforcing regional effect among conservatives in the south, and differences in the preferences of Baptist and non-Baptist African Americans.
A discrete-time differential dynamic programming algorithm with application to optimal orbit transfer

Abstract : Recently, the notion of Differential Dynamic Programming has been used to obtain new second-order algorithms for solving non-linear optimal control problems. (Unlike conventional Dynamic Programming, the Principle of Optimality is applied in the neighborhood of a nominal, non-optimal, trajectory.) A novel feature of these algorithms is that they permit strong variations in the system trajectory. In this paper, Differential Dynamic Programming is used to develop a second-order algorithm for solving discrete-time dynamic optimization problems with terminal constraints. This algorithm also utilizes strong variations and, as a result, has certain advantages over existing discrete-time methods. A non-linear computed example is presented, and comparisons are made with the results of other researchers who have solved this problem. The experience gained during the computation has suggested some extensions to an earlier, previously published Differential Dynamic Programming algorithm for continuous time problems. These extensions, and their implications are discussed. (Author)
Effect of mixture casting phosphonium salts with Nafion ® on the proton exchange capacity and mass transport through the membranes

This research examined how the physical properties of Nafion® are affected by mixture casting Nafion® with quaternary phosphonium salts. Quaternary phosphonium salts can be mixture cast with commercially available Nafion® suspension to form membranes with decreased proton exchange capacity and altered mass transport of cations, anions and neutral species through the membrane. Since quaternary phosphonium salts are similar in size and hydrophobicity to quaternary ammonium salts, the mass transport of cations, anions and neutral species through tetraethylphosphonium bromide and tetrabutylphosphonium treated Nafion® is similar to tetraethylammonium bromide and tetrabutylammonium treated Nafion®, respectively. Although there is no statistically significant difference between transport through tetrabutylphosphonium bromide treated Nafion® membranes and tetrabutylammonium bromide treated Nafion® membranes, there is a detectable difference for the transport of ferricyanide, methyl viologen and tetramethylphenylenediamine through tetraethylphosphonium bromide treated Nafion® membranes. The difference is consistent with the fact that tetraalkylphosphonium bromides are slightly larger than tetraalkylammonium bromides, so the resulting pore size for a tetraalkylphosphonium bromide treated Nafion® membrane is larger than the pore size for a tetraalkylammonium bromide treated Nafion® membrane. The proton exchange capacity of tetraalkylphosphonium bromide treated membranes is larger than tetraalkylammonium bromide treated membranes. This data is expected since phosphonium salts are less hydrophobic than the ammonium salts and will have a lower affinity for the sulfonic acid exchange sites. Overall, this research indicates that quaternary phosphonium bromide salts can be employed to further tailor the physical and chemical properties of Nafion® membranes.
Growth and change and the innovative firm

Abstract Regional economic development is largely influenced by technical progress, and innovative manufacturing firms are important in this context. Large, fast growing, innovative firms contribute significantly to growth by direct and indirect employment and income-generating impacts, and these are likely to be extended through time if the firms are capable of developing new product lines and markets. Unfortunately, ‘orthodox’ theories of the firm provide a poor basis for understanding ‘how’ and ‘why’ innovative firms come into existence, grow, change, and operate over time and geographic space. Behavioral—managerial notions, on the other hand, do appear to provide a useful basis for conceptualization. This paper examines some of these concepts and goes on to provide a framework for understanding growth and change in innovative, multiproduct, multiregional firms.
The nonlinear viscoelasticity of hyaluronic acid and its role in joint lubrication

Hyaluronic acid solutions have been widely studied due to their relevance to the rheological behavior of synovial fluid and joint lubrication. Ambulatory joint motion is typically large oscillatory deflections; therefore, large amplitude oscillatory shear strain experiments are used to examine the relevant non-linear viscoelastic properties of these solutions. Using the sequence of physical processes method to analyze data provides time dependent viscoelastic moduli, which exhibit a clear physiologically relevant behavior to hyaluronic acids non-linear viscoelasticity. In particular, it is seen that during peak strain/acceleration, the time dependent elastic modulus peaks and the loss modulus is at a minimum. The hyaluronic acid can provide an immediate elastic response to sudden forces, acting like a shock absorber during sudden changes in direction of motion or maximum deflection. However, during peak rate, the elastic modulus is at a minimum and the loss modulus is at a maximum, which provides greater efficacy to hydrodynamic shear lubrication.
Improper Integrals, Simple Integrals, and Numerical Quadrature

x is defined in the simplest case as a limit of proper Riemann integrals, which are themselves limits of Riemann sums. In this paper we discuss the representation of the improper integral as a limit of Riemann sums. Our main result-Theorem 3-gives a condition on the integrand that is necessary and sufficient for such represen- tation of the integral, with the largest natural class of Riemann sums. Some of the motivation for this paper comes from the theory of numerical integration. Most formulas for numerical quadrature-Simpson’s rule, the trapezoid rule, and the Gauss-Legendre formulas, for example -approximate the integral by calculating carefully chosen Riemann sums.* Thus it is the Riemann concept of the integral that is most appropriate for numerical analysis. The quadrature rules mentioned converge to the integral whenever the function being integrated is properly Riemann-integrable; there seems to be no larger class of bounded functions for which quadrature rules converge. In the case of the improper Riemann integral, the connection with numeri- cal quadrature is obscured by the double limiting process involved. If we wish to use a sequence of quadrature formulas, or quadrature rule, (with
The distribution of conditional lethals and host range mutants in the genetic map of bacteriophage T2H.

Abstract Forty-two conditional lethal mutants have been located in the T2H genome by complementation tests with T4 amber mutants. Five extended host range mutants of T2H which are heat sensitive have been placed in baseplate genes by complementation tests with T2H amber mutants. In addition, a sixth host range mutant has been shown to control a tail protein by in vitro complementation with T4.
An adaptive protocol model for IEEE 802.11 wireless LANs

In this paper, we present a new technique for dynamically setting a spread spectrum radio's waveforms and transmission power levels in simulations based on the wireless channel model's signal to noise ratio. Our scheme, known as Signal-to-Noise Ratio-Waveform Power Adaptation (SNR-WPA), is designed on an 802.11 spread spectrum radio but is an extensible framework portable to models of other spread spectrum systems. SNR-WPA changes the power in discrete steps matched to each of the 802.11 data rate-waveform steps. By matching the power to the spreading symbol rate, our technique maximizes the network throughput while minimizing MAC layer contention. Unlike other power adaptation methods, this method does not increase the Wireless LAN (WLAN) station's overall effective operational range and does not change the minimum-spanning tree used to calculate routing. We found through experimentation that the power adaptation in SNR-WPA yields up to a 50% increase in throughput in a mobile wireless LAN network without creating additional routing overhead.
Comparing Solution Structures of Amylin and CGRP by Nanosecond Laser-Pump Spectroscopy and Atomistic Simulations

Amylin and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are intrinsically disordered proteins, members of the calcitonin (Ct) peptide family. They are found with their respective receptors in different organs and carry out different functions. Amylin is involved in regulating glucose metabolism and is implicated in type II diabetes, while CGRP is a vasodilator involved in transmitting pain signals in the nervous system, and triggers migraine attacks. Amylin and CGRP share 47% sequence homology and are able to bind to each other's receptors and activate cell response. Such cross-reactivity is attributed to their possible structural similarity. Solution state NMR experiments show that both peptides are disordered and locally sample transient helical states close to the N-terminus. While such short-range structural properties have been compared, it is not clear whether the long-range properties are affected or not. Here we combine results from experiments, probing both long- and short-range properties of the two peptides, with results from replica exchange molecular dynamics (REMD) simulations. To measure a long-range property directly comparable to simulations, we use a nanosecond laser-pump spectroscopy technique based on tryptophan triplet quenching. This allows probing both the end-to-end distance and the rate of end-to-end contact formation in IDPs, without using prosthetic dyes. Because of the short length of our peptides and the high aggregation propensity of amylin, this information cannot be obtained using other techniques such as FRET. Our data show that both the secondary structure content and the end-to-end distance of the two peptides differ significantly, and that such differences are affected by electrostatic interactions. Both our experiments and REMD simulations indicate that long-range interactions (i.e. interactions between residues that are far away in the sequence), play a significant role in determining the peptide structural ensemble in solution.
Racial representation in merchandising: National catalogs

Three national mail order catalogs were studied to determine the degree to which black people were used in advertising adult clothing. Swimwear, outerwear (topcoats, raincoats), and underwear were not included due to the relative absence of any black models. Results were based on frequency of use of black models, and a combined rating based on the size, salience, position on the page, and price of garments modeled. Results indicated significant underutilization of black models, even when representation was corrected for family income averages for black and white families.
The Effect of Hydrogen Addition on Ignition Delays and Flame Propagation in Spark Ignition Engines

Abstract The results of an experimental investigation of the effect of supplemental hydrogen (up to 30 percent of the total fuel energy) on the combustion process in a CFR engine are reported. The hydrogen was added under otherwise constant conditions so that chemical properties were varied under constant hydrodynamic conditions. Calibrated cylinder pressure traces, averaged over many cycles, were incorporated into a two-zone thermodynamic analysis to determine the mass fraction burned as a function of crankangle. The techniques employed enabled changes in the induction period and combustion duration of the order of 0.1 ms to be resolved. The added hydrogen resulted in significant reductions in ignition delay or induction times, especially in lean mixtures. Reductions were greater with increased fractions of hydrogen. Once a turbulent flame was well established, the hydrogen had a relatively small effect on the burning rate. The results are consistent with a description of the combustion process which inc...
Benefits and challenges of developing a public sector metrics program using commercial tools

The views in this paper are the author's only, and are not an endorsement of any product or company, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Library of Congress or the federal government.This paper discusses how the Library of Congress developed a metrics program using commercially available metrics tools. The Library does not have the extensive programming resources needed to create its own in-house metrics collection tools, but instead chose to rely on commercial tools.
Structure of high-Z one- and two-electron atoms

A review is given of the theory of the structure of high-Z one- and two-electron atoms. In such atoms, both relativistic and quantum electrodynamic effects are significant. The theory, based on the bound-interaction picture of quantum electrodynamics, is described, and recent progress in calculations is indicated.
Force Relationships for an XYZ Micromanipulator With Three Translational Degrees of Freedom

This paper introduces the force analysis of the XYZ Micromanipulator (XYZM). The XYZM has three independent linear inputs and a positioning platform. The positioning platform remains horizontal throughout its motion and has translation in the x, y, and z directions. The design and displacement analysis for the XYZM was reported previously. This paper concentrates on the input-output force relationships and the derivation of the XYZM kinematic coefficients. Equations for the three versions of the XYZM are reported and sample results provided. Slider displacements of 45 micrometers result in a predicted out-of-plane displacement of 188 micrometers for the rigid-body XYZM and 262 micrometers for the compliant XYZM. This correlates to output force of 286 micronewtons with an input force of 150 micronewtons for the rigid-body XYZM and 261 micronewton output force with an input force of 150 micronewtons for the compliant XYZM.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Theory and Models for Nucleation and Growth of Diamond Films

Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of diamond films at low pressures has been rapidly advanced in recent years.1–3 It has been demonstrated that high-quality diamond films can be produced employing different experimental techniques and using different hydrocarbons as starting material. The deposition rates and film quality have been repeatedly shown to be sufficiently high for a number of commercial applications to be feasible. At the same time, it becomes evident that further technological advancement, particularly in such challenging areas as single-crystal growth for electronic applications and low-temperature deposition for coating of optic and plastic materials, requires detailed understanding of the fundamental phenomena responsible for diamond nucleation and growth.
Caring and family income

Abstract This paper extends Becker's theory of altruism in the family to social interactions in the workplace, using motives measured by social psychologists. Altruism in the family is measured by a transfer of money income to the spouse which is motivated by affiliation. Data from the first nationwide survey of TAT-measured personality dispositions are used to show that a head of household with children maximizes family income only if he is motivated by affiliation towards his wife and has a stronger motive for power than affiliation in managerial situations. Additional motive patterns are found which account for significant differences in family income.
Characterization of oxynitride hard mask removal processes for refractory x-ray mask fabrication

Silicon oxynitride removal processes are characterized for incorporation into the refractory x-ray mask fabrication sequence as the hardmask removal step. It is essential that his process not alter final image placement, one of the most critical parameters affecting x-ray mask performance. In this paper, we show that 10:1 buffered HF causes large image placement movement when used on refractory x-ray masks. This is because etching in HF has deleterious effects on TaSi, resulting in highly compressive film stress. Materials analysis indicates the presence of hydrogen in the TaSi films after being exposed to HF, which is most likely affecting the film stress. Alternative processes being investigated include using a more dilute 100:1 buffered HF solution and a CHF3 plasma dry-etch chemistry. Both of these options completely remove the SiON hardmask without causing any significant image placement movement and result in high quality refractory x-ray masks.
NeuroM and MyoD are Expressed in Separate Subpopulations of Cells in the Pregastrulating Epiblast

Epiblast cells form skeletal muscle and neurons in culture and some express mRNA for the skeletal muscle specific transcription factor MyoD in vivo. The following experiments were designed to determine whether the neurogenic transcription factor NeuroM is expressed in the epiblast and if NeuroM and MyoD are present in separate subpopulations of epiblast cells that can differentiate into neurons and muscle, respectively. In situ hybridization revealed that NeuroM was present in the anterior region of the pregastrulating epiblast. Some cells with NeuroM were proliferating and expressed two molecules present in neurogenic cells, NCAM and the Zn-12/HNK-1 carbohydrate. The G8 antibody labeled cells with MyoD but not NeuroM. When G8 positive cells were isolated by magnetic cell sorting and placed in culture, nearly all differentiated into skeletal muscle in serum free medium. A subpopulation of cells isolated with antibodies that bound to cells expressing NeuroM formed neurons when cultured in medium supplemented with sera and embryo extract. These experiments demonstrate that NeuroM and MyoD are present in separate subpopulations of cells in the pregastrulating epiblast. Epiblast cells with NeuroM are more dependent on exogenous factors to differentiate than those with MyoD.
Construction and validation of the healthy eating and weight self-efficacy (HEWSE) scale

Abstract Healthy eating and weight self-efficacy occurs when individuals believe they can obtain and maintain a healthy weight and eating pattern. The goal of this study was to develop and evaluate the Healthy Eating and Weight Self-Efficacy (HEWSE) Scale. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the best fitting model is comprised of 11 items divided into two factors – healthy eating and healthy weight. Statistical analyses provided evidence that the HEWSE scale is reliable and valid. In sum, the HEWSE scale is a brief, psychometrically sound measure of healthy eating and weight self-efficacy that may be useful both in research studies and in clinical work involving eating and weight.
Adsorption dynamics of surfactants at the air/water interface: a critical review of mathematical models, data, and mechanisms

Abstract This review covers equilibrium and dynamic aspects of surface tension and adsorption, primarily of single nonmicellar or premicellar surfactants at the air/water interface. Equilibrium tension data have been related to the Langmuir adsorption equilibrium isotherm and the Gibbs isotherm. A set of Langmuir isotherm parameters has been compiled. Dynamic adsorption models with the diffusion-controlled and mixed-kinetic mechanisms are discussed in some detail and applied to several sets of data. Apparent diffusion coefficients, inferred from dynamic tension data, and kinetic adsorption parameters, derived from application of the models to the data, are presented and critically evaluated. The adsorption of most of the surfactants examined is slower than predicted by diffusion-controlled models. Exceptions are mostly non-ionic surfactants and certain alcohols.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Four Assays of Prostatic Acid Phosphatase: Comparison Using Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve Analysis

We compared the diagnostic characteristics of four assays of prostatic acid phosphatase by two methods. In the first analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were developed and the areas under the curves were calculated. In the second analysis, the sensitivity of each assay was compared with the sensitivities of the other assays with specificities set at equal levels. One or more assays were performed in 1,298 patients; 141 underwent all four assays. Pairwise comparisons of the areas under the ROC curves showed no significant differences. No differences were found in the sensitivities of the four assays when the upper limits of normal were selected to provide equal specificities. We conclude that there is little difference in diagnostic accuracy among the prostatic acid phosphatase assays. Our findings contrast with previous studies that used only one upper limit of normal and that found some assays to be superior to others. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis corrects for the bias introduced by the choice of an upper limit of normal.
A New Hysteresis Model for Piezoelectric Actuators With Application to Precision Trajectory Control

Piezoelectric actuators with their sub-nanometer resolution and fast frequency response are becoming increasingly important in today’s micro-and nano-positioning technology. Along this line, this paper undertakes the development of a nonlinear modeling, system identification and control framework for piezoelectric actuators used in such positioning systems. More specifically, a general nonlinear modeling framework for a single piezoelectric actuator combined with a novel method for describing its hysteretic nonlinearity is proposed. For the actuator generated force, a polynomial form of the nonlinearity is assumed, and the time-varying history-dependent parameters of this polynomial are identified through the observed hysteretic characteristics of the actuator. Experimental results demonstrates the validity of the proposed the modeling and identification framework for an in-house high resolution piezoelectric-based stager with capacitive position sensor. Utilizing Lyapunov method and the sliding mode control strategy, the control force acting on the actuator is then designed such that the high frequency tracking control and the asymptotic stability of the system are attained. Simulation results indicate that controller suppresses the high frequency tracking error significantly, noticeably improving the tracking performance.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Potassium Influx Into Rat Erythrocytes: Lack of Effect of Some Adrenal Substances, Especially Aldosterone, Upon It

The dynamics of penetration of K into erythrocytes of the rat has been investigated by means of 42K as a tracer. Results show that there is no significant difference in the K influx value between intact and previously adrenalectomized animals. The mean value for K influx in rat erythrocytes is established as 6.10±0.26 mEq/(hr.l cells). The penetration of K into red cells is 3 times faster in the rat as compared with man. Aldosterone, cortisol, epinephrine and norepinephrine added to the blood were shown to possess no activity on K influx under the present experimental conditions. {Endocrinology 80: 375, 1967)
Studies on the particulate α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase of muscle

Abstract 1. 1. By temporary solubilization with sodium desoxycholate, the particulate α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase of rabbit muscle has been freed of triosephosphate isomerase, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, and catalase. 2. 2. Additional evidence that the particulate dehydrogenase is not pyridine nucleotide-linked was obtained. In contrast to the crude preparations, the purified enzyme no longer reacts with cytochrome c. Flavin adenine dinucleotide, cytochrome b with and without cytochrome c, and ferricyanide are likewise ineffective as electron carriers in the purified system. 3. 3. The product of α-glycerophosphate oxidation by the particulate enzyme has been identified as dihydroxyacetone phosphate . Final proof has been obtained that dihydroxyacetone phosphate is likewise the product when the reaction is catalyzed by the soluble DPN-linked glycerophosphate dehydrogenase of muscle. 4. 4. It has been shown that triosephosphate isomerase can interconvert dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate in the presence of the carbonyl-trapping agent hydrazine. Under these conditions, the equilibrium is shifted to favor the aldotriose.
Cancer Stem Cells: A Moving Target.

Even though the number of anti-cancer drugs entering clinical trials and approved by the FDA has increased in recent years, many cancer patients still experience poor survival outcome. The main explanation for such a dismal prognosis is that current therapies might leave behind a population of cancer cells with the capacity for long-term self-renewal, so-called cancer stem cells (CSCs), from which most tumors are believed to be derived and fueled. The CSCs might favor local and distant recurrence even many years after initial treatment, thus representing a potential target for therapies aimed at improving clinical outcome. In this review, we will address the CSC hypothesis with a particular emphasis on its current paradigms and debates, and discuss several mechanisms of CSC resistance to conventional therapies.
Preschool Teachers' Perceptions and Reactions to Challenging Classroom Behavior: Implications for Speech-Language Pathologists.

Awareness of issues of social competence and challenging behavior related to childhood language and communication disorders has been increasing. The purpose of this clinical exchange is to provide speech-language pathologists with basic information on communication disorders and challenging behaviors, as well as with insights into ways to support both students and classroom teachers. To provide effective services to children with language impairments and optimally support classroom staff, speech-language pathologists need to recognize (a) the interdependence of language, communication, social competence, and challenging behaviors; (b) the significance that challenging behaviors can have on evaluations of academic competency; and (c) how teachers in early childhood classrooms perceive and react to challenging behaviors. This clinical exchange provides an overview of the relationship between language, communication, and social competence, and presents preliminary survey research data investigating teachers’...
Fractionated conformal radiotherapy for management of optic nerve sheath meningiomas: long-term outcomes of tumor control and visual function at a single institution.

Purpose To provide the long-term outcomes of patients treated with fractionated conformal radiotherapy (FCRT) for presumed optic nerve sheath meningiomas (ONSMs). Patients and Methods Between 1995 and 2002, 9 patients with a presumed ONSM were treated with FCRT at our institution. The indications for FCRT were significant visual dysfunction at presentation, progression of visual dysfunction during a period of observation, tumor growth documented by sequential imaging, or a combination of these findings. In 2 patients, FCRT was performed as adjuvant therapy, and in 7, it was the initial and primary treatment. Results Of the 9 patients, 6 were women and 3 were men, with a mean age of 47 years. All 9 patients had evidence of optic nerve dysfunction in the affected eye, characterized by reduced visual acuity, a visual field defect, and a relative afferent pupillary defect. In addition, 2 patients had proptosis and 1 had diplopia. The mean follow-up period was 98 ± 31.7 months (median, 90; range, 61–151). After FCRT, the visual function improved in the 7 patients who had undergone FCRT as the primary treatment. However, 2 patients who were blind in their affected eye at FCRT remained blind. In 4 of the 7 patients with improvement, the improvement was documented within 1–3 months after FCRT. The tumor control rate was 100%. Proptosis and diplopia also regressed in 100% of patients. At 2 years after FCRT, 1 patient had developed radiation retinopathy. Conclusion The results of our study have shown that FCRT is a safe and effective treatment of ONSMs, affording satisfactory long-term tumor control, good functional outcome, and low treatment morbidity. FCRT should be considered the treatment of choice for patients with presumed ONSMs for whom the treatment has been deemed appropriate.
The use of phentolamine in the prevention of dopamine-induced tissue extravasation

Abstract Purpose :The purpose of this study was to determine whether dopamine-induced tissue extravasation injury could be prevented with phentolamine. Materials and Methods :This was a prospective, randomized, blinded, and controlled animal study. Forty rats were evaluated to document the effects of dopamine compared with normal saline on tissue integrity, whether any tissue damage was concentration or volume dependent, and to determine the minimum concentration of dopamine resulting in tissue injury. Dopamine concentrations of 0.8 mg/mL and 3.2 mg/mL were tested. In a second part of this study, an additional 40 rats were evaluated to assess the efficacy of two different doses of phentolamine (0.5 mg and 1 mg) or normal saline, when injected within 10 minutes of dopamine administration to prevent or reverse tissue extravasation. Extravasation sites were evaluated clinically and histologically at 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours and were compared with a baseline sample. Outcome measures were as follows: (1) prebiopsy was ectodermal erythema, induration, and blanching; (2) postbiopsy was bubbling, darkening, pallor, and hematoma of the muscle fascia. Histology included neutrophil migration, mast cell degranulation, edema, and hemorrhage. Fisher's Exact Test with the Bonferroni method were used for statistical analysis. Results :Dopamine-induced extravasation resulted in tissue injury characterized by blanching and hematoma. Damage did not appear to be volume dependent, but may be related to the duration of infiltration. Subcutaneous injection with either dose of phentolamine appeared to be clinically effective in preventing tissue injury. However, microscopic evaluation of tissue samples was inconclusive. Conclusion :This study clinically supported the use of phentolamine for the prevention of dopamine-induced extravasation injury.
Don't Let History Repeat Itself: Optimal Multidrug Quorum Quenching of Pathogens Network

Recent advances in synthetic biology have dramatically expanded our ability to control biological processes at the cellular level. Particularly, a large body of recent work focuses on human pathogen treatment targeting increased antibiotic resistance. To this end, a new strategy has been proposed to disrupt the pathogen communication network (i.e., quorum sensing (QS)) such that the pathogens cannot coordinate the release of virulence factors. In this paper, we propose a new molecular model that captures the effects of QSIs on the QS network of P. aeruginosa and formulate a constrained optimization problem to find the optimal combination of QSIs while accounting for the selective pressure of developing drug resistance. Our optimization results show significant reduction of selective pressure on pathogens, while preserving the efficacy of the multidrug quorum quenching therapy.
A SEMI-CLASSICAL IMPLEMENTATION OF QUANTUM CONTROL USING GAUSSIAN WAVE PACKET DYNAMICS

Abstract Quantum control has previously been implemented using the exact time dependent Schrodinger equation (TDSE). Such calculations are limited by computational difficulty to systems with only a few degrees of freedom. In order to implement quantum control in many-atom systems, with sufficient accuracy and computational speed, we explore here a semi-classical implementation in the weak response regime whereby the TDSE is solved approximately using Gaussian wave packet (GWP) dynamics. We demonstrate by example that, for suitable systems and targets, the GWP representation of the evolving quantum system can be used to accurately calculate globally optimal light fields.
Quantitation of the fatty acid composition of phosphatidic acid by capillary gas chromatography electron-capture detection with picomole sensitivity.

We describe a relatively simple and sensitive method to measure fentomole amounts of phosphatidic acid in cells. Phosphatidic acid was extracted from cells in the presence of 1-heptadecanoyl-2-heptadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphate as an internal standard, purified by two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography, and hydrolyzed to its constituent free fatty acids which were then derivatized to the corresponding pentafluorobenzyl esters. Pentafluorobenzyl esters of fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography with electron-capture detection. Long-chain fatty acids were resolved with excellent signal-to-noise ratios. Using heptadecanoic acid as an internal standard for quantitation, as little as 1 fmol of pentafluorobenzyl ester of stearic acid was detected with a linear response up to 10 pmol. Linear detector responses were obtained for all major classes of fatty acids. For phosphatidic acid measurement, the detection limit was at least 50 fmol thus achieving a 1000-fold increase in sensitivity compared to the most sensitive of the previously described methods. An example is provided of quantitating phosphatidic acid from minute amounts of biological samples such as islets of Langerhans.
Access to Grey Literature in Business: An Exploration of Commercial White Papers

White papers are a form of grey literature produced by businesses that can be a valuable source of information for librarians and business practitioners. This article reports the results of an exploratory investigation of whether commercial white papers can be successfully located in full-text form through the use of online databases, aggregators, and search engines as an alternative to retrieving the document directly from the Website of the authoring organization. Also examined are the extent of secondary references to these white papers and whether such white papers can be found in library collections.
Obtaining Positive Outcomes with Insulin Therapy in Hospitalized Patients

Abstract Diabetes has long been recognized as a risk factor for a variety of medical conditions that predispose patients to hospitalization, and it is associated with poor outcomes. Patients with diabetes are likely to be admitted for coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular or peripheral vascular disease, nephropathy, infection, or surgery. Hyperglycemia occurs frequently in hospitalized patients. Studies suggest that hyperglycemia in the hospital setting is an indicator of poor clinical outcomes in critical and noncritical patients. A growing body of clinical evidence indicates that effective glucose control in a hospital setting may improve short-term and long-term morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes and hyperglycemia.
Is sensitive caregiving in child care associated with children's effortful control skills? An exploration of linear and threshold effects

Abstract This study examined associations between caregiver sensitivity and responsiveness in child care experienced at age 4 and children's effortful control skills at age 5, among 154 preschoolers who attended community-based child care settings. Sensitive caregiving was measured using a modified version of the Observational Ratings of the Caregiving Environment and children's effortful control skills were assessed using both a parent questionnaire and a laboratory assessment. Results suggest that effortful control is sensitive to thresholds of caregiver sensitivity. Specifically, positive associations between caregiver sensitivity and effortful control skills a year later were observed only for children in settings with relatively high-quality caregiver sensitivity. These findings suggest that supporting the development of children's effortful control skills may require exposure to child care that exceeds typical levels of caregiving quality experienced by young children in the United States.
An Examination of Citizen Involvement in Crime Prevention in High-Risk Versus Low- to Moderate-Risk Neighborhoods

In the following study, the authors examine factors that explain citizen participation in crime prevention activities in Boston. Using survey data from a random sample, census data, and official crime and arrest data, the authors identified a wide range of individual- and community-based indicators that could potentially explain citizen involvement in crime prevention. Findings revealed that citizen involvement in collective crime prevention does indeed vary by the risk level of a particular neighborhood, with high-risk neighborhoods demonstrating higher rates of involvement than low- to moderate-risk neighborhoods. The authors also found that the factors that explained citizen participation varied by the risk level of the neighborhood. Overall, this research demonstrated that in high-risk neighborhoods, citizen involvement in crime prevention activities is affected by the unique blend of personal, parochial, and public social control mechanisms operating in these areas.
Apolipoprotein A5, a Newly Identified Gene That Affects Plasma Triglyceride Levels in Humans and Mice

Apolipoprotein A5 (APOA5) is a newly described member of the apolipoprotein gene family whose initial discovery arose from comparative sequence analysis of the mammalian APOA1/C3/A4 gene cluster. F...
The klystron RF systems for the indiana university lens accelerator

This paper describes the Klystron RF systems for the Indiana University Low Energy Neutron Source (LENS) accelerator 425 MHz radiofrequency quadrupole (RFQ) and drift tube linac (DTL) systems. Of interest in the power conditioning system is the design of the totem-pole grid-catch modulator for the mod-anode klystrons. This topology provides a fast rise and fall and closed loop regulation for the klystron mod-anode to cathode voltage, which minimizes RF amplitude and phase droop while maximizing efficiency. Another advantage is that short pulse high rep-rate operation is viable within the average power capabilities of the klystron. The 425 MHz, 1.25 MW klystron amplifier chain will also be detailed. Of final interest, is the digital low level RF system. This provides vector control of the cavity field using direct conversion, non-I/Q sampling architecture, at a sampling rate of 132 MHz with a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Four input and two output channels are integrated into a 6 unit (6U) VME module, with all DSP functions performed in Xilinx Spartan-3 field-programmable gate arrays. The design and implementation of these systems, coupled with LENS operational results, will be presented.
Comparative sporicidal effects of liquid chemical agents

We compared the effectiveness of glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, cupric ascorbate (plus a sublethal amount of hydrogen peroxide), sodium hypochlorite, and phenol to inactivate Bacillus subtilis spores under various conditions. Each chemical agent was distinctly affected by pH, storage time after activation, dilution, and temperature. Only three of the preparations (hypochlorite, peracetic acid, and cupric ascorbate) studied here inactivated more than 99.9% of the spore load after a 30-min incubation at 20 degrees C at concentrations generally used to decontaminate medical devices. Under similar conditions, glutaraldehyde inactivated approximately 90%, and hydrogen peroxide, formaldehyde, and phenol produced little killing of spores in suspension. By kinetic analysis at different temperatures, we calculated the rate of spore inactivation (k) and the activation energy of spore killing (delta E) for each chemical agent. Rates of spore inactivation had a similar delta E value of approximately 20 kcal/mol (ca.83.68 kJ/mol) for every substance tested. The variation among k values allowed a quantitative comparison of liquid germicidal agents.
Coupling Strategies for the Synthesis of Peptide-Oligonucleotide Conjugates for Patterned Synthetic Biomineralization

This work describes preparation strategies for peptide-oligonucleotide conjugates that combine the self-assembling behavior of DNA oligonucleotides with the molecular recognition capabilities of peptides. The syntheses include a solution-phase fragment coupling reaction and a solid-phase fragment coupling strategy where the oligonucleotide has been immobilized on DEAE Sepharose. The yield of four coupling reagents is evaluated, two reagents in water, EDC (1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride) and DMTMM (4-(4,6-dimethoxy[1,3,5]triazin-2-yl)-4-methyl-morpholinium chloride), and two in dimethylformamide (DMF), PyBOP ((Benzotriazol-1-yloxy) tripyrrolidinophosphonium hexafluorophosphate) and HBTU (O-benzotriazole-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate), while the oligonucleotide fragment is either in solution or immobilized on DEAE. These coupling strategies rely on an unprotected 5′ amino linker on the oligonucleotide reacting with the peptide C-terminus. The peptide, selected from a combinatorial library for its gold-binding behavior, was 12 amino acids long with an N-terminus acetyl cap. Formation of the conjugates was confirmed by gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry while molecular recognition functionality of the peptide portion was verified using atomic force microscopy. Solution-phase yields were superior to their solid-phase counterparts. EDC resulted in the highest yield for both solution-phase (95%) and solid-phase strategies (24%), while the DMF-based reagents, PyBOP and HBTU, resulted in low yields with reduced recovery. All recoverable conjugates demonstrated gold nanoparticle templating capability.
Neutral Amino Acid Uptake by Microvillous and Basal Plasma Membrane Vesicles from Appropriate- and Small-for-Gestational Age Human Pregnancies

Fetal growth depends upon nutrient availabilty in the maternal circulation as well as appropriate transfer across the placenta via known transport mechanisms in the maternal- and fetal-facing plasma membranes of the syncytiotrophoblast. In this study, microvillous (maternal-facing) and basal (fetal-facing) plasma membrane vesicles were isolated from the placentas of appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) and small-for-gestational age (SGA) human pregnancies and the uptakes of tritiated leucine, alanine, and glycine were determined. There was no significant difference in the uptakes of either alanine or leucine by the microvillous and basal vesicles from AGA and SGA pregnancies. In contrast, glycine uptake by both microvillous and basal membrane vesicles from SGA pregnancies was significantly less than vesicles from AGA pregnancies. Glycine is delivered to the umbilical circulation in amounts only minimally in excess of its accretion into protein resulting in a narrow margin of safety for fetal growth. The ...
Diagnostic principles in pleural disease

When a patient with an undiagnosed pleural effusion is evaluated, the first question to answer is whether the patient has a transudate or an exudate. This is best done using Light's criteria, but these criteria occasionally misidentify a transudate as an exudate. If the patient's pleural fluid meets exudative criteria, but the patient appears clinically to have a transudative effusion, then the serum-pleural fluid albumin gradient should be measured. If this is greater than 1.2 g-dL-1, the patient probably does have a transudative effusion. If the patient has an exudative pleural effusion, additional tests are indicated to determine the aetiology of the effusion. The gross appearance and the odour of the pleural fluid should be noted and samples of all exudates should be sent for bacterial cultures. Laboratory tests that are useful in the differential diagnosis of exudative pleural effusions include: differential white cell count of the pleural fluid; cytology of the pleural fluid; and levels of adenosine deaminase, glucose, amylase and lactate dehydrogenase in the pleural fluid. If pleural tuberculosis is suspected, a needle biopsy of the pleura is indicated. Thoracoscopy is very efficient at diagnosing malignant pleural effusion and tuberculosis pleuritis, but rarely establishes any other diagnosis.