cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Rat Model for Pressure Induced Deep Tissue Injury

Deep tissue injury (DTI), as a recently emphasized mechanism for PU formation [1], has received increased attention lately and several studies reported findings on newly developed DTI animal models [2]. The clinical view of DTI emphasizes the severity of clinically identified DTI as that a true DTI progresses rapidly even with the most aggressive treatment and its massive tissue necrosis is in a similar nature of a Stage-IV full-thickness wound [3]. Many animal PU models have been developed to test different hypotheses related to deep tissue injury (DTI) [3]. However, none of DTI studies reported that the experimentally induced DTI eventually progressed to be an open wound which affected superficial skin, and the reported histological or imaging data of the induced DTI did not suggest massive tissue necrosis. Although it might be that most studies did not keep their DTI animals long enough to observe the formation of an open wound from the DTI, the results from our own observation and Kwan, et al [4], in which no skin lesion was formed after 7 days of DTI, do not support this speculation. It may be that, in these DTI studies, the injured deep layer had healed. By examination of the existing PU rat models, especially those for DTI research, we came to our assumption that the missing bony prominence may possibly be a flaw that prevents those models from yielding more clinically relevant data. It has long been the understanding that PUs often occur at tissue pressure points around a bony prominence. We believe that, to more accurately simulate the clinical scenario of DTI formation, a bony prominence is necessary for a rat DTI model.© 2010 ASME
Low-energy fusion of 28Si + 12C

Abstract Fusion cross sections have been measured for the 28 Si + 12 C system over the energy range 60 MeV ⪕E 28 Si⪕90 MeV . Large structures in the total fusion yield are identified at E cm = 19.6, 20.6, 22.0, 23.9, and 25.1 MeV. Unlike most systems previously studied, the nucleon decay modes are largely responsible for these anomalies. The structures occur at successive integral values of angular momentum, but do not appear to correlate with known resonances in 180° elastic and inelastic scattering.
Cyclic postural behavior in the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii: Properties of the pattern‐initiating network

Crayfish exhibit complex cyclical adjustments in abdominal posture during certain forms of backward walking. An isolated nerve cord preparation was used to investigate the properties of the interneurons which direct this alternation of abdominal flexion and extension. The command function for this cyclic postural behavior appears to be the domain of a distributed network of multiple pattern-initiating interneurons: each interneuron may be viewed as a command element within a command system. The cyclic pattern may be elicited by stimulation of small axon bundles pulled from the ventrolateral margins of any of the abdominal connectives. As few as one stimulus pulse to the axon bundle can elicit a single cycle of patterned output, although more pulses are generally necessary. This suggests some convergence or amplification step in the pattern-initiating interneurons. The amplification may be accomplished by several pattern-initiating interneurons that are coupled to one another and converge on pattern generating circuits in each ganglion. Evidence supporting this interpretation is presented. Experiments involving resection of the cord reveal that the pattern-initiating signals transfer laterally across all of the abdominal ganglia, but the network contains a bias for descending signal conduction once a lateral transfer is made. This finding agrees with other results. For example, recordings from pattern-initiating axon bundles at rostral and caudal locations in the abdominal nerve cord show several descending but only one ascending unit activated during cyclic pattern generation. We also show that an isolated ganglion is capable of producing the cyclic motor program, although the outputs are much weaker than those elicited in the intact abdominal cord. Therefore, the pattern-initiating system is both central and distributed. © 1993 wiley-Liss, Inc.
235 INSULIN SECRETION RATE IN PREMATURE FETAL AND NEONATAL LAMB

To compare the insulin secretory response to glucose between fetal and neonatal subjects, steady state insulin turnover studies were performed with 131I insulin in 6 chronic fetal lamb preparations (gestation = 123 days and weight of 2.8 kg) and 3 clinically well, 1-2 day old premature lambs of similar gestational age. The insulin turnover measurements were made during a 0.45% saline infusion and repeated following a glucose infusion to double the prior plasma glucose concentration. Plasma glucose, insulin, and immuno-precepitable insulin were measured during the steady state and post-hepatic insulin secretion rates (PHISR) and metabolic clearance rates (MCR) were calculated. Both fetal and neonatal (Prem) subjects doubled their plasma glucose concentrations during glucose infusion (p<.05). With this glucose challenge, the PHISR were unchanged in both fetal and neonatal lambs. The data suggest that in spite of the difference in glucose control in the intra and extrauterine states, the responsiveness of insulin secretion rate in the fetus is similar to that of the neonate.
An E-Supervision Model: Videoconferencing as a Clinical Training Tool

In this article, the authors describe the implementation and use of two-way interactive videoconferencing for supervising student clinicians. They provide a rationale for and describe the e-supervision model as it has been implemented within a public school setting. A description of the technical and equipment needs is included for individuals interested in implementing a similar program. The authors also discuss the identified strengths and weakness of the model and implications for clinical training. This information may be of interest to professionals engaged in supervision and members of graduate training programs, especially persons who are developing a distance learning component.
Three-coordinate copper(I) amido and aminyl radical complexes.

Electron transfer (ET) through proteins often utilizes copper-containing active sites as efficient one-electron relays. The type-1 active sites of the blue copper proteins are prominent examples. It is generally thought that high ET rates through type-1 redox sites occur because the protein environments enforce unusual trigonally distorted coordination spheres to allow for minimal structural reorganization during ET. Though large Cu^II/Cu^I self-exchange ET rate constants (kS) in the range observed for type-1 sites have been achieved in certain synthetic monocopper systems using geometries distinct from trigonal environments, ET studies have yet to be conducted in a synthetic system featuring isolated, trigonally disposed copper centers. The simplest such systems would contain a trigonal planar geometry. Here we report the structural characterization of a trigonal planar system featuring formally Cu^II and Cu^I amido complexes related by a reversible one-electron redox event. We find in this system that ET is extremely rapid and is accompanied by a small degree of structural reorganization during redox. We propose that this structural rigidity in the absence of secondary coordination sphere effects results from significant covalency of the copper-amide linkages. In fact, a CuI-aminyl radical description of the formally Cu^II-amide complex may be most appropriate.
Microstructural factors important for the development of high critical current density Nb3Sn strand

Abstract Nb 3 Sn is the primary candidate for the next generation of accelerator magnets as well as for NMR and other applications that require magnetic fields between 11 and 20 T. Since 1999 the layer critical current density available in long length accelerator quality strand has almost doubled. The microstructural and microchemical factors that are important for high critical current density Nb 3 Sn are reviewed. The highest critical current density strands have a Nb 3 Sn layer that minimizes chemical and microstructural inhomogeneities and has a high fraction of the layer close to stoichiometric Sn content. Only the internal Sn process has yielded critical current densities beyond 3000 A/mm 2 at 12 T (4.2 K) and only with interfilamentary Cu thicknesses that are too low to separate the filaments after the final reaction heat treatment. The result of the reaction heat treatment is to produce a continuous ring of Nb 3 Sn from hundreds of Nb or Nb-alloy filaments and thus a major ongoing challenge of Nb 3 Sn conductor design is to reduce the effective filament diameter to acceptable levels for intended applications. Recent successful attempts to reduce the cost of alloying the Nb 3 Sn for high field application are also examined and the potential for future improvements discussed.
Device-oriented directed self-assembly of Lamellar microdomains from a block copolymer containing hybrid

Directed self-assembly (DSA) of a block copolymer containing hybrid material using topographic guiding patterns is presented in this paper. Lamellar microdomains of the hybrid material, which is a mixture of poly(styrene-b-ethylene oxide) (PS-b-PEO) and organosilicate (OS) precursor, have orientational correlation length about five times longer than typical organic block copolymers such as poly(styrene-b-methyl methacrylate) (PS-b-PMMA). The longer correlation length (i.e. bigger grain size) makes it possible to align the lamellar microdomain into geometries similar to device layouts. We report one-dimensional assembly of lamellar microdomains on substrates, which gives crossbar and multifinger nanostructures.
Purification and characterization of a human-specific esterase from urine.

Abstract A human-specific esterase was isolated from urine and partially characterized by ammonium sulfate precipitation, starch block electrophoresis, and gel filtration. Its molecular weight was estimated to be 136,000 by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in 0.17. SDS. A diffusion coefficient of 8.6 X 10−7 was determined by the L-plate method. Immunologic identity was shown between the urinary esterase and a human tissue esterase.
Flow of a Dilute Suspension of Spherical Particles into a Stagnation Point

The problem of stagnation point flow of a fluid with suspended particles is set forth with help of the theory of fluids with microstructure. The effect of the microstructure on the velocity field and boundary layer is examined. Das Problem der Staupunktstromung suspendierter Partikel in Flussigkeiten wird mit Hilfe der Theorie der Flussigkeiten mit Mikrostruktur entwickelt. Die Wirkung der Mikrostruktur auf das Geschwindigkeitsfeld und die Grenzschicht werden untersucht.
UNCERTAINTY IN PRICING TRADABLE OPTIONS

In this paper we introduce an options pricing model consistent with the level of uncertainty observed in the options market. By assuming that the price at which an option can be traded is intrinsically uncertain, either because of the inability to hedge continuously or because of errors in the estimation of the security's volatility and interest rates, random delays in the execution of orders or information deficiencies, we show that the Black-Scholes model produces a biased estimate of the expected value of tradable options. Information deficiencies lead to a call-put relationship that reduces to the standard call-put expression on average but shows random fluctuations consistent with the concept of market equilibrium. The same information deficiencies can contribute to the volatility skew that affects the Black-Scholes model.
The Proper Role of Government in Renewable Energy Development: Theory and Practices in China

The proper role of government in economic development is one of the biggest single issues confronting China today. The paper attempts to trace and describe the role played by the government in renewable energy development. The goals focused in the article are two ones. The first one is to explore the theoretical basis on the role of government. The second one is to examine the practices in China. Based on the analysis of theory and practices in China, the paper argues that government propelling is quite crucial to renewable energy development, and concludes that further incentive policies and implementation system should be improved.
Coordination of ciliary movement. II. The effect of temperature upon the ciliary wave length

The ciliary wave length is a constant in the temperature range of 10° to 30°C. and in Modiolus demissus has the average value of 13.1 μ. Comparison of these data for ciliary coordination with those of nerve conduction probably indicates that the two physiological processes possess certain properties in common. The cells which bear the cilia are 12.75 μ long and the variation in ciliary wave length and cell length is about the same, which may indicate a possible cytophysiological relationship between the two.
Organ culture of adult mouse esophageal mucosa in a defined medium.

A method is described for culturing adult mouse esophageal mucosa in a chemically defined medium. The preparation consists a mucosa and superficial submucosa. By light microscopy, autoradiography, and tritiated-thymidine ([ 3 H]TdR) uptake the tissue appears viable for at least 3 days. Although a drop in the rate of [ 3 H]TdR uptake is observed in the initial hours of culture, recovery occurs by 24hr and uptake remains constant for at least an additional 48hr. Twenty-four-hour exposure to [ 3 H]TdR and autoradiography reveals that 93 ± 3% of the basal cells take up label; appreciable labeling is not found in other cells of the preparation. Pulse labeling indicated a transit time from basal layer to keratin layer of about 72hr. This preparation should be useful for short-term in vitro studies of a keratinized, stratified, squamous epithelium free of appendages and for studies of the growth properties of esophageal mucosa under simulated pathologic conditions.
High-Frequency Resistivity Measurement Method for Multilayer Soft Magnetic Films

We present a noncontact method to measure the resistivity of multilayer magnetic thin films under high-frequency excitation. A multilayer thin-film magnetic material separated by dielectric has been used in microfabricated magnetic components in power applications. High-frequency resistivity is necessary for predicting core loss in magnetic materials. Traditional measurement methods using contacting probes cannot provide a reliable measurement of the resistivity of multilayer thin-film materials. Noncontact methods eliminate the use of electrical probes. Eddy-current loss induced by an applied external magnetic field is measured and the high-frequency resistivity of multilayer material is extracted from eddy-current loss measurements. The application of this method to measure the resistivity of multilayer thin-film materials and magnetic materials is investigated. The high-frequency resistivity of a 6-μm-thick multilayer Co-Zr-O thin-film magnetic granular material is measured. Comparisons between theoretical and experimental results are presented.
Fate of α-Bungarotoxin Bound to Acetylcholine Receptors of Normal and Denervated Muscle

In organ culture, α-[125I]bungarotoxin bound to extrajunctional receptors of denervated muscle is lost from the tissue at a more rapid rate than the toxin bound to the junctional receptors of normal muscle. The rapid loss of toxin from denervated muscle can be blocked by inhibitors of energy production and protein synthesis, and may reflect turnover of the toxin-receptor complex in the membrane.
Improved tracking capability and efficient radar allocation through the fusion of radar and infrared search-and-track observations

The benchmark problem addresses the efficient allocation of an agile-beam radar in the presence of highly maneuverable targets and radar ECM. The multisensor benchmark tracking solution is aided by the presence of a scanning infrared search-and-track (IRST) system. This paper presents methods for applying a tracker with interacting multiple- model (IMM) filtering and multiple-hypothesis tracking (MHT) data asso- ciation to this multiple-sensor tracking and resource allocation problem. It presents a hybrid multisensor tracking architecture in which an IMM- MHT tracker operating on IRST data provides the global IMM-MHT tracker with selected observations. Simulation results quantify the poten- tial improvement from the use of advanced tracking methods and IRST data to enhance agile-beam radar tracker capability. © 2000 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers. (S0091-3286(00)03205-0)
Global warming and carbon taxation Optimal policy and the role of administration costs

Abstract This paper develops a model relating CO2 emissions to atmospheric concentrations, global temperature change and economic damages. For a variety of parameter assumptions, the model provides estimates of the marginal cost of emissions in various years. The optimal carbon tax is a function of the margical emission cost and the costs of administering the tax. This paper demonstrates that under any reasonable assumptions, the optimal carbon tax is zero for at least several decades.
DRIVER RELATIONSHIPS WITH CUSTOMERS AND DRIVER TURNOVER: KEY MEDIATING VARIABLES AFFECTING DRIVER PERFORMANCE IN THE FIELD

This study assesses the role of two key variables, driver turnover and driver relationships with external customers, with respect to dispatcher behaviors, truck driving characteristics and driver performance in the field. The premise is tested that internal marketing with truck drivers is associated with improved relationships with customers, retention of customer-conscious drivers and higher driver performance. Dispatchers were surveyed because the close business relationship between dispatchers and drivers makes dispatchers a key informant on driver performance and customer satisfaction. Results uphold previous research findings that higher driver pay, more time home and greater dispatcher responsiveness are highly related to reduced driver turnover. Highly responsive dispatcher behavior toward drivers influences drivers to develop similar behavior and relationships with external customers. Findings also suggest that drivers having more positive relationships with external customers appear to achieve higher levels of performance. Implications for driver management strategies are discussed.
Genetic Variations in the Internal Transcribed Spacer and Mitochondrial Small Subunit rRNA Gene of Naegleria spp

Naegleria spp. are widely distributed free-living amebas, but one species in the genus, N. fowleri, causes acute fulminant primary amebic meningoencephalitis in humans and other animals. Thus, it is important to differentiate N. fowleri from the rest in the genus of Naegleria, and to develop tools for the detection of intra-specific genetic variations. In this study, one isolate each of N. australiensis, N. gruberi, N. jadini, and N. lovaniensis and 22 isolates of N. fowleri were characterized at the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and mitochondrial small subunit rRNA (mtSSU rRNA) gene. The mtSSU rRNA primers designed amplified DNA of all isolates, with distinct sequences obtained from all species examined. In contrast, the ITS primers only amplified DNA from N. lovaniensis and N. fowleri, with minor sequence differences between the two. Three genotypes of N. fowleri were found among the isolates analyzed in both the mtSSU rRNA gene and ITS. The extent of sequence variation was greater in the mtSSU rRNA gene, but the ITS had the advantage of length polymorphism. These data should be useful in the development of molecular tools for rapid species differentiation and genotyping of Naegleria spp.
Pathway analysis for intracellular Porphyromonas gingivalis using a strain ATCC 33277 specific database

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a Gram-negative intracellular pathogen associated with periodontal disease. We have previously reported on whole-cell quantitative proteomic analyses to investigate the differential expression of virulence factors as the organism transitions from an extracellular to intracellular lifestyle. The original results with the invasive strain P. gingivalis ATCC 33277 were obtained using the genome sequence available at the time, strain W83 [GenBank: AE015924]. We present here a re-processed dataset using the recently published genome annotation specific for strain ATCC 33277 [GenBank: AP009380] and an analysis of differential abundance based on metabolic pathways rather than individual proteins. Qualitative detection was observed for 1266 proteins using the strain ATCC 33277 annotation for 18 hour internalized P. gingivalis within human gingival epithelial cells and controls exposed to gingival cell culture medium, an improvement of 7% over the W83 annotation. Internalized cells showed increased abundance of proteins in the energy pathway from asparagine/aspartate amino acids to ATP. The pathway producing one short chain fatty acid, propionate, showed increased abundance, while that of another, butyrate, trended towards decreased abundance. The translational machinery, including ribosomal proteins and tRNA synthetases, showed a significant increase in protein relative abundance, as did proteins responsible for transcription. Use of the ATCC 33277 specific genome annotation resulted in improved proteome coverage with respect to the number of proteins observed both qualitatively in terms of protein identifications and quantitatively in terms of the number of calculated abundance ratios. Pathway analysis showed a significant increase in overall protein synthetic and transcriptional machinery in the absence of significant growth. These results suggest that the interior of host cells provides a more energy rich environment compared to the extracellular milieu. Shifts in the production of cytotoxic fatty acids by intracellular P. gingivalis may play a role in virulence. Moreover, despite extensive genomic re-arrangements between strains W83 and 33277, there is sufficient sequence similarity at the peptide level for proteomic abundance trends to be largely accurate when using the heterologous strain annotated genome as the reference for database searching.
The KaoIinite‐MuIIite Reaction Series: Ill, The High‐Temperature Phases

X-ray diffraction data for the high-temperature phases show that a spinel-type structure develops with marked orientation at about 925°C. This phase is considered to be an aluminum silicon spinel with vacant cation sites. Mullite is thought to be formed by the decomposition of the spinel. Silica is eliminated progressively as metakaolin transforms to the spinel phase and thence to mullite. The X-ray data show variation in the mullite parameters between 1200° and 1400°C.; at 1400°C., the composition probably approximates 3A12O3·2SiO2. The nature of the intermediate spinel-type phase is discussed in relation to the crystal chemistry of spinels.
Impression Formation under Conditions of Spontaneous and Shadowed Speech

Summary This study investigated impression formation while a speaker presented either spontaneous or “shadowed” messages to observers. The spontaneous messages were two-minute, impromptu, self-originated speeches. The shadowed messages were two-minute speeches transmitted to the speaker, which he repeated as he heard them through a small, inconspicuous earphone. Ss were 42 male and female undergraduates who rated the speeches and the speaker on such characteristics as fluency, sincerity, truthfulness, and attractiveness. Both spontaneous and shadowed speeches were rated positively, but spontaneous speeches were rated higher than shadowed speeches. This appeared to reflect an interaction between speech content and the rated characteristics. It was tentatively concluded that the speaker was able, while shadowing, to present consistent verbal and nonverbal cues to Ss which allowed positive impression formation.
MHC RFLP analyses in channel catfish full-sibling families: identification of the role of MHC molecules in spontaneous allogeneic cytotoxic responses

Genes encoding MHC class I and II molecules have been identified in a number of fish species, including the channel catfish, but there is still a dearth of knowledge concerning their functional roles in teleost immune responses. This has in part been due to a lack of appropriate MHC class I and II matched and mismatched animals. To identify such animals, MHC segregation and linkage studies in the channel catfish were undertaken. The results of restriction fragment length polymorphism and fluorescent in situ hybridization studies showed that all the MHC class II genes are linked and most if not all MHC class I genes are linked. These studies also demonstrated that in catfish, as in other teleosts, MHC class I and II genes are not linked. Consequently, catfish matched and mismatched for MHC class I and II genes were identified and preliminary functional studies indicate that spontaneous non-specific allogeneic cytotoxic responses are likely mediated by differences in MHC class I, but not class II, region molecules.
Irradiation induced low temperature volume expansion of KC1 and KBr

Abstract The macroscopic volume expansions caused by relaxations around Frenkel defects produced by X-irradiation at 80°K and 6°K have been measured. For KC1 and KBr the 80°K data give a relaxation for the F-centre Frenkel pair of the order of that previously determined for F-centre alone, indicating that the relaxation around the neutral interstitial is small. In contrast to this, the 6°K measurements indicate a relaxation around the negative ion interstitial of the same order as that associated with the α-centre.
Effects of swelling on the mechanical properties of a pH-sensitive hydrogel for use in microfluidic devices

Abstract Tensile tests were conducted on a 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)–acrylic acid (AA) comonomer gel sensitive to variations in environmental pH. Mechanical properties (Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, ultimate tensile strength, and percent elongation at break) were determined at different levels of swelling equilibrium. Shifts in ultimate tensile strength (from 300 to 60 kPa) and percent elongation at break (from 150% to 30%) were observed between samples tested in the swollen and unswollen states. Additional tests were conducted to determine the effects of crosslinking and polymerization conditions on mechanical properties. Increasing the crosslinker component from 0.2% to 1% resulted in an increase in Young's modulus (34 to 380 kPa) by an order of magnitude. It is found that adjustment of the crosslinker component of the hydrogel is an effective method of controlling mechanical properties.
The relationship between growth, profitability, and firm value

This research examined predictions drawn from value-based planning models. Results indicate that profitability and growth do influence shareholder value in the manner predicted; however, the relationships are conditional. This study also shows that, the market-to-book value of equity ratio and Tobin's q-ratio are theoretically and empirically, equivalent measures of value creation.
Beyond empathy: a therapy of contact-in-relationship

Richard G. Erskine, Janet P. Moursund, and Rebecca L. Trautmann, Philadelphia PA: Brunner/Mazel, 1999, 380 p.
Antares Automatic Beam Alignment System

Antares is a 24-beam-line CO2 laser system for controlled fusion research, under construction at Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory (LASL). Rapid automatic alignment of this system is required prior to each experiment shot. The alignment requirements, operational constraints, and a developed prototype system are discussed. A visible avelength alignment technique is employed that uses a telescope/TV system to view point light sources appropriately located down the beamline. Auto ignment is accomplished by means of a video centroid tracker, which determines the off xis error of the point sources. The error is nulled by computer riven, movable mirrors in a closed op system. The light sources are fiber ptic terminations located at key points in the optics path, primarily at the center of large copper mirrors, and remotely illuminated to reduce heating effects. There are 2 power amplifiers, each containing 12 beams. One telescope/TV camera is needed per amplifier. The driver amplifier, power amplifier, and target system optics are coaligned to the telescope/TV camera optical axes. The final alignment to the target is accomplished with the use of a special fixture. The use of visible light for alignment, rather than infrared, requires less expensive components, gives a smaller diffraction blur, and permits more accurate pointing. The dispersion between 10.6 μm and visible light due to the NaC1 windows is measured and compensated by the control system.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: where is the tear?

The Case Study by Satoda and colleagues, published in this issue of Nature Clinical Practice Cardiovascular Medicine, provides Paolo Angelini with an intriguing introduction to his Viewpoint on spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD). Dr Angelini discusses our current understanding of this condition, and highlights recent progress in refining the diagnosis and definition of SCAD, made possible by new imaging modalities.
The color of water: using underwater photography to estimatewater quality

We describe a model for underwater illumination that is based on how light is absorbed and scattered by water, phytoplankton and other organic and inorganic matter in the water. To test the model, we built a color rig using a commercial point-and-shoot camera in an underwater housing and a calibrated color target. We used the measured spectral reflectance of the calibration color target and the measured spectral sensitivity of the camera to estimate the spectral power of the illuminant at the surface of the water. We then used this information, along with spectral basis functions describing light absorbance by water, phytoplankton, non-algal particles (NAP) and colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM), to estimate the spectral power of the illuminant and the amount of scattered light at each depth. Our results lead to insights about color correction, as well as the limitations of consumer digital cameras for monitoring water quality.
Electrochemical Copolymerization and Spectroelectrochemical Characterization of 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene and 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene−Methanol Copolymers on Indium−Tin Oxide

This work describes the electrochemical copolymerization and spectroelectrochemical characterization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) with a commonly used EDOT derivative: 2,3-dihydrothieno[3,4 ...
C-reactive protein elevation independently influences the procedural success of percutaneous balloon mitral valve commissurotomy

Abstract Background Markers of systemic inflammation including C-reactive protein (CRP) appear to predict morbidity and mortality in various clinical conditions. The presence of systemic inflammation and its impact on the procedural success of percutaneous balloon mitral valve commissurotomy (PBMC) in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis has not been previously demonstrated. Methods Measurements of CRP with a high-sensitivity assay were performed at the time of PBMC or during post-procedural follow-up in 119 patients with mitral stenosis of rheumatic morphology. Patients were questioned to exclude confounders of CRP elevation and categorized into undetectable (≤0.10 mg/L) and detectable (>0.10 mg/L) CRP levels. Detectable levels were further classified into assay range (>0.10 and ≤6.0 mg/L) and elevated (>6.0 mg/L). Results CRP was detectable in 76% of patients and elevated (>6.0 mg/L) in 36% of patients studied. Procedural success occurred in 89% of patients with undetectable CRP, as compared with only 67% in patients with detectable CRP (P = .028). This effect remained after controlling for age and valve score (previously described predictors of PBMC success). Conclusions Systemic inflammation is common in patients with rheumatic mitral valve stenosis, and the relationship between procedural success and CRP suggests persistent inflammation may affect the results of PBMC.
Adaptive radiation and convergence in subdivisions of the butterfly genus Heliconius (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)

The process of adaptive radiation and convergence, usually regarded as a feature of macro-evolution, can be seen in the mimetic colour patterns of the butterflies within the confines of the South American genus Heliconius. This can be shown by dividing the genus into subgroups on the basis of adult, pupal and larval morphology: the theory that the mimicry between species results solely from close systematic relationships is thereby refuted, as members of the same morphological group can display widely divergent mimetic patterns, and conversely mutual mimics may belong to several different morphological groups. Various forms of parallel and convergent evolution are thought to account for the present pattern of mimicry, the process is known to start even before full speciation has taken place. A new subgenus (Neruda) is created to contain three atypical members of the genus.
Irradiation of chemically crosslinked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene

Acetabular cups for artificial hip joints were prepared by compression molding of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene in the presence of peroxide. Peroxide crosslinking led to a decrease in the degree of crystallinity, peak melting temperature, and recrystallization temperature, as well as decreased crystal perfection and size. Peroxide crosslinked cups were sterilized with gamma rays at room temperature in air atmosphere to an average dose of 3.4 Mrad. Irradiation produced further crosslinking in amorphous regions plus extensive chain scission of taut tie molecules and led to increased crystallinity and crystal perfection. A significant increase in carbonyl concentration was determined for irradiated specimens. In general, peroxide crosslinking reduces the effect of irradiation on the crosslinked network, because chemical crosslinking stabilizes chain fragments resulting from radiolytic scission and suppresses recrystallization of broken chains from amorphous regions. Wear rates were much lower for chemically crosslinked cups, which showed about one-fifth of the wear of control cups for the period from 0.5 to 1.0 million cycles. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Electroactive Polymers

A general scheme for the preparation of soluble electroactive polymers is reviewed with emphasis that polymers so prepared permit investigation of the effects of π-electron delocalization and lattice charge upon nonlinear optical activity. Particular attention is focused upon six membered ring polymer derivatized in 1,4 positions with vinylamine substituents. Such substituents influence rates of polymerization reactions and electronic properties as well as solubility. Preliminary measurement of χ(3) for as-synthesized polymers is effected by DFWM.
Partial Round-Robin Comparisons with Perfect Rankings

Abstract In a partial round-robin tournament, each team plays no more than once against each other team. Suppose that the teams are strictly ordered and that the better team always wins. Then the probability that a randomly chosen team has j wins and k - j losses does not depend on j. Nor does the expected number of teams with j wins and k - j losses.
Development of a Forecasting Compensatory Control System for Cylindrical Grinding

A forecasting compensatory control (FCC) system was developed to improve workpiece roundness in cylindrical grinding operations. The spindle radial error motion (SREM) at the grinding position, identified as the dominant error source was modeled by an autoregressive model and compensated for by a forecasting algorithm. A digital method for measuring SREM at the grinding position which incorporates master roundness compensation was proposed and a piezo-electric drive system for the generation of the compensatory mechanical motion was developed. The implementation of the proposed method resulted in a substantial improvement of workpiece roundness.
Nonlinear chiro-optical amplification by plasmonic nanolens arrays formed via directed assembly of gold nanoparticles.

Metal nanoparticle assemblies are promising materials for nanophotonic applications due to novel linear and nonlinear optical properties arising from their plasmon modes. However, scalable fabrication approaches that provide both precision nano- and macroarchitectures, and performance commensurate with design and model predictions, have been limiting. Herein, we demonstrate controlled and efficient nanofocusing of the fundamental and second harmonic frequencies of incident linearly and circularly polarized light using reduced symmetry gold nanoparticle dimers formed by surface-directed assembly of colloidal nanoparticles. Large ordered arrays (>100) of these C∞v heterodimers (ratio of radii R1/R2 = 150 nm/50 nm = 3; gap distance l = 1 ± 0.5 nm) exhibit second harmonic generation and structure-dependent chiro-optic activity with the circular dichroism ratio of individual heterodimers varying less than 20% across the array, demonstrating precision and uniformity at a large scale. These nonlinear optical pro...
Load dump transient control of a 42 V automotive generator

This paper describes the concept, design, modeling, simulation and performance of an innovative fast field regulator developed for a high-power 42 V automotive generator, to minimize the load-dump energy and improve its reliability. In laboratory tests, a 3 kW 42 V Lundell generator, with conventional field regulator, failed the load-dump transient test. This research analyzed the root cause of the failure by analyzing the load-dump energy, using SABER modeling and simulation, which have been verified by tests. Various concept alternatives for minimizing the load-dump energy have been identified and an innovative and cost-effective solution based on fast field control was selected for development of the proof-of-concept hardware. The proposed technique reduced the load-dump transient duration by more than a factor of 5, resulting in a reduction of load-dump energy by more than 75%. This eliminated the need for paralleling multiple avalanche diodes in the alternator rectifier bridge to handle the transient energy, resulting in a smaller package and increased reliability at a lower cost. The proposed fast field control can be further applied to minimize the load-dump transients in all belted alternator starters (BAS) that use a wound-field machine.
Novel design methodology for short-channel MOSFET analog circuits

This paper presents a methodology that addresses short-channel effects to design MOSFET circuits. The circuit design is based on a combination of parameter extraction and simple analytical models that allows precise results. The extraction mainly depends on the inversion level, which is independent of geometry, therefore providing points that are applicable to a wide variety of circuits. Trade-offs and design space of the device are clearly brought to the circuit design. Hand calculations and simulations of a common-source amplifier illustrate the methodology.
Quantification of Abciximab-Induced Platelet Inhibition Is Assay Dependent: A Comparative Study in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Abstract Background The best method for measuring the degree of platelet inhibition with glycoprotein (GP) IIb-IIIa antagonists during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and the optimal degree of periprocedural inhibition is uncertain. Low molecular weight heparins have been reported to cause less platelet activation than unfractionated heparin. Therefore, compared with unfractionated heparin (UHF), a low molecular weight heparin could enhance measured platelet inhibition. In this study, we compared 3 methods of measuring platelet inhibition and investigated the effects of half doses of abciximab in combination with either UFH or the low molecular weight heparin dalteparin in patients undergoing PCI with planned abciximab administration. Methods Abciximab-induced platelet inhibition was measured serially by means of 3 assays: 1) GP IIb-IIIa receptor occupancy, 2) binding of the activated GP IIb—IIIa-specific monoclonal antibody PAC1, and 3) agglutination of platelets with fibrinogen-coated beads (RPFA). Forty patients were randomly allocated to receive either UFH (70 U/kg) or dalteparin (60 IU/kg), followed by a half dose of abciximab (0.125 mg/kg) administered twice at 10-minute intervals. Assays were obtained 10 minutes after each half dose of abciximab and 8 to 10 and 24 hours after abciximab administration. Results No differences between UFH and dalteparin were observed. At each time-point measured, the mean percent platelet inhibition as determined by means of the receptor occupancy assay and PAC1 binding assay was less than the degree of inhibition determined by means of the RPFA. Conclusions The results of targeted levels of platelet inhibition cannot be extrapolated between different clinical trials of GP IIb-IIIa antagonists unless the same assay is used. Dalteparin, compared with UFH, does not enhance platelet inhibition or receptor occupancy by abciximab, as demonstrated by means of 3 separate assays. (Am Heart J 2003;145:e6.)
Brown and beige fat: development, function and therapeutic potential

Adipose tissue, best known for its role in fat storage, can also suppress weight gain and metabolic disease through the action of specialized, heat-producing adipocytes. Brown adipocytes are located in dedicated depots and express constitutively high levels of thermogenic genes, whereas inducible 'brown-like' adipocytes, also known as beige cells, develop in white fat in response to various activators. The activities of brown and beige fat cells reduce metabolic disease, including obesity, in mice and correlate with leanness in humans. Many genes and pathways that regulate brown and beige adipocyte biology have now been identified, providing a variety of promising therapeutic targets for metabolic disease.
Radar polarimetry: analysis tools and applications

The authors have developed several techniques to analyze polarimetric radar data from the NASA/JPL airborne SAR for Earth science applications. The techniques determine the heterogeneity of scatterers with subregions, optimize the return power from these areas, and identify probable scattering mechanisms for each pixel in a radar image. These techniques are applied to the discrimination and characterization of geologic surfaces and vegetation cover, and it is found that their utility varies depending on the terrain type. It is concluded that there are several classes of problems amenable to single-frequency polarimetric data analysis, including characterization of surface roughness and vegetation structure, and estimation of vegetation density. Polarimetric radar remote sensing can thus be a useful tool for monitoring a set of Earth science parameters. >
Parametric Study of a Combined Power and Cooling Thermodynamic Cycle for Low Temperature Heat Sources

A combined power/cooling cycle, which combines the Rankine and absorption refrigeration cycles, uses ammonia-water mixture as a working fluid and produces power and refrigeration while power is the primary goal. This cycle, also known as the Goswami Cycle, can be used as a bottoming cycle using waste heat from a conventional power cycle or as an independent cycle using low temperature sources such as geothermal and solar energy. This paper presents a parametric analysis of the combined cycle. Parametric study of the cycle was carried out in the commercial software Chemcad 6.1. The thermodynamic property data used in simulations were validated with experimental data. Chemcad model was also compared with simulations previously carried out in the process simulator Aspen Plus. The agreement between the two sets has proved the accuracy of the model developed in Chemcad. Then, optimum operating conditions were found for a range of ammonia concentration in the basic solution, isentropic expander efficiency and boiler pressure. It is shown that the cycle can be optimized for net work, cooling output, effective first and exergy efficiencies.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Mapping of Mouse Obesity Genes: A Generic Approach to a Complex Trait

Identification of genes underlying any complex trait such as obesity is an important and difficult problem in genetics. Traditional candidate gene approaches cannot be relied on to identify all of the genes influencing a complex trait, and positional cloning is very laborious. With the advent of new tools and methods, however, comprehensive approaches to the identification of any genes underlying complex traits are now available. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping is a general technique to map Mendelian factors influencing complex traits. The QTL approach involves the crossing of two strains that differ in the trait of interest to produce F2 or backcross progeny, individually phenotyping and genotyping each progeny, and statistically associating the typed markers and the phenotype. QTL mapping has been used in the last 4 years to map genes for a wide variety of traits, including body weight and growth, obesity, atherosclerosis and susceptibility to cancer in the mouse, and hypertension, hyperactivity and arthritis in the rat. QTL mapping has also been used to map genes in pigs, poultry, cows, fish and plants. Once a trait has been located in a chromosomal subregion, identifying the underlying gene remains a significant problem. A monogenic model must be developed, isolating one gene influencing a trait from other genes affecting the same phenotype. Then the positional candidate strategy, which relies on a combination of mapping to a chromosomal subregion followed by a survey of the interval to see if attractive candidates reside there, becomes practical.
Entropy-based variable frame rate analysis of speech signals and its application to ASR

Most speech processing algorithms analyze speech signals frame by frame with a fixed frame rate. Fixed-rate analysis is inconsistent with human speech perception and effectively assigns the same importance or 'weight' to all equi-duration frames. In Zhu et al. (2000), we proposed a variable frame rate (VFR) analysis technique that is based on a Euclidian distance measure. In this paper, we propose another approach for VFR based on the entropy of the signal. We compare entropy and Euclidian distance measures for VFR in ASR experiments using the Aurora2 and T146 databases. Better performance is observed for the entropy-based VFR over our earlier VFR approach and over the fixed-rate system.