cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiation therapy morbidity in carcinoma of the uterine cervix: dosimetric and clinical correlation.

Purpose: To quantitate the impact of total doses of irradiation, dose rate, and ratio of doses to bladder or rectum and point A on sequelae in patients treated with irradiation alone for cervical cancer. Methods and Materials: Records were reviewed of 1456 patients (Stages IB–IVA) treated with external-beam irradiation plus two low-dose rate intracavitary insertions to deliver 70 to 90 Gy to point A. Follow-up was obtained in 98% of patients (median, 11 years; minimum, 3 years; maximum, 30 years). The relationships among various dosimetry parameters and Grade 2 or 3 sequelae were analyzed. Results: In Stage IB, the frequency of patients developing Grade 2 morbidity was 9%, and Grade 3 morbidity, 5%; in Stages IIA, IIB, III, and IVA, Grade 2 morbidity was 10% to 12% and Grade 3 was 10%. The most frequent Grade 2 sequelae were cystitis and proctitis (0.7% to 3%). The most common Grade 3 sequelae were vesicovaginal fistula (0.6% to 2% in patients with Stage I–III tumors), rectovaginal fistula (0.8% to 3%), and intestinal obstruction (0.8% to 4%). In the bladder, doses below 80 Gy correlated with less than 3% incidence of morbidity and 5% with higher doses (p = 0.31). In the rectosigmoid, the incidence of significant morbidity was less than 4% with doses below 75 Gy and increased to 9% with higher doses. For the small intestine, the incidence of morbidity was less than 1% with 50 Gy or less, 2% with 50 to 60 Gy, and 5% with higher doses to the lateral pelvic wall (p = 0.04). When the ratio of dose to the bladder or rectum in relation to point A was 0.8 or less, the incidence of rectal morbidity was 2.5% (8 of 320) vs. 7.3% (80 of 1095) with higher ratios (p ≤ 0.01); bladder morbidity was 2.3% (7 of 305) and 5.8% (64 of 1110), respectively (p = 0.02). The incidence of Grade 2 and 3 bladder morbidity was 2.9% (10 of 336) when the dose rate was less than 0.80 Gy/h, in contrast to 6.1% (62 of 1010) with higher dose rates (p = 0.07). Rectal morbidity was 2% to 5% in Stage IB, regardless of dose rate to the rectum; in Stages IIA–B and III, morbidity was 5.2% (28 of 539) with a dose rate of 0.80 Gy or less and 10.7% (37 of 347) with higher dose rates (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis showed that dose to the rectal point was the only factor influencing rectosigmoid sequelae, and dose to the bladder point affected bladder morbidity. Conclusions: Various dosimetric parameters correlate closely with the incidence of significant morbidity in patients treated with definitive irradiation for carcinoma of the uterine cervix. Careful dosimetry and special attention to related factors will reduce morbidity to the lowest possible level without compromising pelvic tumor control.
Propagating buckles in corroded pipelines

Abstract Rigid–plastic solutions for the steady-state, quasi-static buckle propagation pressure in corroded pipelines are derived and compared to finite element predictions (ABAQUS). The corroded pipeline is modeled as an infinitely long, cylindrical shell with a section of reduced thickness that is used to describe the corrosion. A five plastic hinge mechanism is used to describe plastic collapse of the corroded pipeline. Closed-form expressions are given for the buckle propagation pressure as a function of the amount of corrosion in an X77 steel pipeline. Buckles that propagate down the pipeline are caused by either global or snap-through buckling, depending on the amount of corrosion. Global buckling occurs when the angular extent of the corrosion is greater than 90°. When the angular extent is less than 90° and the corrosion is severe, snap-through buckling takes place. The buckle propagation pressure and the corresponding collapse modes also compare well to finite element predictions.
Time-resolved studies of the interactions between pulsed lasers and aerosols

Studies of the interaction between a pulsed CO2 laser and micrometer-sized aqueous and organic particles by use of light-scattering methods and step-scan Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy are reported. Visible two-color extinction experiments indicate primary particle shattering, accompanied by a high fraction of vaporization, followed by secondary particle evaporation. The extent of the latter depends on the pulse intensity and particle composition. Angle-resolved light-scattering investigations provide insight into the aerosol size distribution and temperature following the pulsed heating event. The time dependence of the vapor plume, monitored with step-scan FTIR spectroscopy, confirms that a large fraction of the initial particle is quickly evaporated during the shattering event, followed by secondary fragment evaporation and thermal expansion.
Host response to tissue engineered devices

The two main components of a tissue engineered device are the transplanted cells and the biomaterial, creating a device for the restoration or modification of tissue or organ function. The implantation of polymer/cell constructs combines concepts of biomaterials and cell transplantation. The interconnections between the host responses to the biomaterial and transplanted cells determines the biocompatibility of the device. This review describes the inflammatory response to the biomaterial component and immune response towards transplanted cells. Emphasis is on how the presence of the transplanted cell construct affects the host response. The inflammatory response towards a biomaterial can impact the immune response towards transplanted cells and vice versa. Immune rejection is the most important host response towards the cellular component of tissue engineered devices containing allogeneic, xenogeneic or immunogenic ex vivo manipulated autologous cells. The immune mechanisms towards allografts and xenografts are outlined to provide a basis for the mechanistic hypotheses of the immune response towards encapsulated cells, with antigen shedding and the indirect pathway of antigen presentation predominating. A review of experimental evidence illustrates examples of the inflammatory response towards biodegradable polymer scaffold materials, examples of devices appropriately integrated as assessed morphologically with the host for various applications including bone, nerve, and skin regeneration, and of the immune response towards encapsulated allogeneic and xenogeneic cells.
Pulsed ELDOR spectroscopy of the Mo(V)/Fe(III) state of sulfite oxidase prepared by one-electron reduction with Ti(III) citrate

The titration of chicken liver sulfite oxidase (SO) with the one-electron reductant Ti(III) citrate, at pH 7.0, results in nearly quantitative selective reduction of the Mo(VI) center to Mo(V), while the b-type heme center remains in the fully oxidized Fe(III) state. The selective reduction of the Mo(VI/V) couple has been established from electronic and EPR spectra. The elec- tronic spectrum of the Fe(III) heme center is essentially unchanged during the titration, and the continuous wave (CW)-EPR spectrum shows the appearance of the well-known Mo(V) signal due to the low pH (lpH) form of SO. Further confirmation of the selective formation of the Mo(V)/Fe(III) form of SO is provided by the � 1:1 ratio of the integrated intensities of the Mo(V) and low- spin Fe(III) EPR signals after addition of one equivalent of Ti(III). The selective generation of the Mo(V)/Fe(III) form of SO is unexpected, considering that previous microcoulometry and flash photolysis investigations have indicated that the Mo(VI/V) and Fe(III/II) couples of SO have similar reduction potentials at pH 7. The nearly quantitative preparation of the one-electron re- duced Mo(V)/Fe(III) form of SO by reduction with Ti(III) has enabled the interaction between these two paramagnetic metalcenters, which are l inked by a flex- ible loop with no secondary structure, to be investigated for the first time by variable-frequency pulsed electron- electron double resonance (ELDOR) spectroscopy. The ELDOR kinetics were obtained from frozen solutions at 4.2 K at severalmicrowave frequencies by pumping on the narrow Mo(V) signaland observing the effect on the Fe(III) primary echo at both higher and lower fre- quencies within the microwave C-band region. The ELDOR data indicate that freezing the solution of one- electron reduced SO produces localized regions where the concentration of SO approaches that in the crystal structure, which results in the interpair interactions be- ing the dominant dipolar interaction. However, thor- ough analysis of the ELDOR decay curves and simulations suggests a distribution of intramolecular Mo ... Fe distances, consistent with the proposalof mul - tiple conformations in solution for the flexible loop that connects the Mo and heme domains of SO.
Recovery of radiation-induced color centers in poly(vinyltoluene)

Abstract Rate constants and the activation energy associated with the optical recovery process of radiation-damaged poly(vinyltoluene) were measured using UV-Vis spectrophotometry and EPR spectroscopy. In-vacuo experiments showed that the recovery process is not uniform throughout the spectrum. The UV (375 nm) and the green (532 nm) regions exhibit a continued increase in damage after irradiation has ceased while the blue (480 nm) region shows a recovery typical of a bimolecular reaction that begins immediately after irradiation ceases. The activation energy for the bimolecular rate process was determined to be 110 kJ/mole. Preliminary in-situ studies indicate that this could actually be a two-step process with separate rate constants that is characteristic of a radical decay mechanism. The 480 nm absorption has been identified as a radical, probably the benzyl radical.
An Advanced, Interactive, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Simulator and Instructor Resources.

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) simulation software has long been recognized as an effective educational tool, yet many of the existing HPLC simulators are either too expensive, outdated, or lack many important features necessary to make them widely useful for educational purposes. Here, a free, open-source HPLC simulator is described that we developed. The Web-based simulator is uniquely sophisticated, yet accessible to a diverse user group with varied expertise in HPLC. It features intuitive controls and indicators for a wide range of experimental conditions, and it displays a graphical chromatogram to provide immediate feedback when conditions are changed. The simulator can be found at hplcsimulator.org. At that Web site, a number of example problem sets are also provided that educators can easily use to incorporate the simulator into their curriculum. Comments from students who used the simulator in an undergraduate analytical chemistry class were positive.
The relationship between patterns of intermittent hypoxia and retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants

The relationship between patterns of intermittent hypoxia and retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants
Development of multimodal membrane adsorbers for antibody purification using atom transfer radical polymerization

Abstract This contribution describes a graft polymerization strategy to prepare multimodal membranes, a new class of high-productivity adsorptive materials for the purification of therapeutic proteins. Surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization was used to graft poly(glycidyl methacrylate) ‘tentacles’ from the pore surfaces of macroporous regenerated cellulose membranes. Subsequently, 4-mercaptobenzoic acid was coupled to the membranes by an epoxide ring-opening reaction. ATR-FTIR measurements support successful ligand incorporation. Graft polymerization studies from cellulose-coated silicon substrates were done in parallel to measure the thickness evolution of the polymer coating, which plays an important role on protein binding capacities. Protein binding experiments with bovine immunoglobulin G show that the multimodal membranes have high equilibrium capacities, up to 150 mg IgG/mL. The binding capacities are pH-dependent, with maximum binding at pH near the protein isoelectric point. Characteristic of multimodal adsorbers, the membranes retain about 70% of their equilibrium binding capacity at moderate ionic strength (300 mM) and about 40% at high ionic strength (1.6 M).
Executive Development: Corporate Response to Business Ethics

Abstract This article reports the results of a survey of human resource management professionals regarding the focus on ethical decisionmaking in executive development programs in the United States. One hundred fifty-five responses were analyzed. The results indicated that there was only moderate emphasis given to ethical issues in executive development programs. There were no differences in the level of emphasis on ethical decisionmaking among lower, middle, and senior levels of management. Further, the level of emphasis on ethical decisionmaking was unaffected by the strategy employed by the corporation, the firm's position in the corporate life cycle, or the size of the business (number of employees).
Optimizing the thermal conductivity of vacuum plasma-sprayed beryllium for fusion applications

Plasma-spraying of beryllium is under investigation as a potential method for coating the first wall blanket surface of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) and as a technique for regenerating damaged beryllium surfaces as a result of normal and off-normal operating events. Methods to optimize the thermal conductivity of vacuum plasma-sprayed (VPS) beryllium are currently under investigation at the Los Alamos National Laboratory's Beryllium Atomization and Thermal Spray Facility (BATSF). Studies are being conducted to evaluate the effect of the starting beryllium feedstock powder, processing parameters and resulting microstructures on the thermal conductivity of VPS beryllium. The characteristic layered microstructure, typical of plasma-sprayed deposits, contains regions of incomplete bonding between individual splat layers which can decrease the thermal conductivity through the thickness of the deposit. Impurities present in the starting beryllium feedstock powder can also influence the thermal conductivity of VPS beryllium by causing impurity striations throughout the thickness of the deposit.
Dynamics of a Convectively Unstable Atmosphere.: Jupiter?

Abstract We test the hypothesis that the atmospheric circulations of Jupiter are a manifestation of large-scale convective instability brought about primarily by the presence of an internal heat source. This is done by examining the nature of convection in an unstable rotating atmosphere through numerical integration of the Boussinesq equations. The general properties of convection are obtained from solutions with laboratory-scale parameters while particular Jovian characteristics are studied through calculations with planetary-scale parameters. In the Jupiter calculations, physical and theoretical constraints on parametric freedom produce a desirably under-determined system in which there remain more observational criteria to be explained than free parameters to manipulate. The solutions indicate that a tropical westerly jet can be produced by an axisymmetric flow provided that the atmosphere is relatively shallow (d<500 km). A strong equatorial westerly flow can occur provided that there is a strong dif...
Stress as a factor in muscle and temporomandibular joint pain

Stress-induced muscle hyperactivity has been proposed as a major aetiological factor in the production of pain in the muscles of mastication and the temporomandibular joints. In the present study, a total of fifty-two patients with joint or muscle pain were evaluated for stress with the Derogatis Stress Profile (DSP). The muscle pain group (n = 24) had higher clinician ratings of psychological factors, stress and chronicity. The muscle-pain group also had higher Environmental Stress scores on the DSP, more intense pain, and more activity impairment than the joint-pain group (n = 28). The results of multiple regression analysis suggest an association between pain, depression, and impairment of activity in the muscle-pain group but not in the joint-pain group. The overall results further suggest that muscle pain develops at 'normal' levels of stress.
Miscibility gaps in quaternary III/V alloys

Abstract Thermodynamic concepts are developed for the calculation of miscibility gaps in III/V quaternary alloy systems of the type AxB1-xCyD1-y. Equations are developed using both the DLP model based on the dependence of free energy on lattice parameter and the regular solution model. An analytical expression is obtained for the critical temperature above which the solid is totally miscible. Solid-solid isotherms and tie lines are plotted for the system GaxIn1-xAsyP1-y for comparison with experimental data. Similar results are presented for the system AlxGa1-xAsySb1-y and GaxIn1-xAsySb1-y. Critical temperatures are calculated for all III/V quaternary alloys of the type AxB1-xCyD1-y involving Al, Ga, and In combined with P, As, and Sb.
The Virial Method and the Classical Ellipsoids

Chandra completed his book Hydrodynamic and Hydromagnetic Stability (HHS) in 1960 and, as was his custom, turned his attention to a new area of research. He began to study general relativity at this time, and it appeared that this would be his exclusive new direction. However, as the result of a pair of accidents, Chandra in fact devoted much of the period from 1960 through 1968 to the virial method and to an analysis of the figures of the classical ellipsoids and their stability. This subject and the general theory of relativity competed for his attention during these years. It was only after completion of his book Ellipsoidal Figures of Equilibrium (EFE) (Chandrasekhar 1969) in 1968 that he felt able to devote himself primarily to the subject of relativity, which then was the principal occupation of the remainder of his research career. His enthusiasm for the development of the classical ellipsoids waxed and waned during this period, and he wrote that parts of it were performed ‘under protest,’ his sense of responsibility to the subject taking precedence over his inclination to enter more fully into the study of relativity. The virial theorem, in scalar form, has a history in astronomy (cf. Ambartsumyan 1958). In the theory of stellar pulsations, it was employed by Ledoux (Ledoux 1945) to obtain an approximate expression for the lowest mode of radial pulsation and the effect on that mode of a slow rotation. Tensor forms of the virial theorem had been employed by Rayleigh (Rayleigh 1903) and by Parker (Parker 1957) in special contexts, and Chandra had long had in the back of his mind the notion that one could use this form of the theorem to obtain useful, approximate information about figures seriously distorted from the spherical by rotation or magnetic fields. He had included the basic equations in his preparation of HHS with this in mind. I was at this time one of his research students and it was therefore natural that he suggest to me, as part of my dissertation, the development of this method. The application he proposed was the problem of the oscillations and stability of the Maclaurin spheroids. This would represent a test case: the frequencies of the Maclaurin spheroids were known, and the virial equations, along with a linear ansatz for the Lagrangian displacement as in Ledoux's problem, would lead to approximate frequencies which could then be compared with the exact values. The ansatz would be needed because the virial method is a moment method which would require some kind of approximate closure procedure, such as that provided by the ansatz. What neither of us
CIMETIDINE CAN CONTROL PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE IN CHILDREN

Cimetidine is a newly developed, potent H2 antagonist of gestric acid secretion currently under restricted investigation in the United states for treatment of peptic ulcer in adults. Efficacy in children was evaluated in a prospective study in 3 petients 14, 2 end 1½ years old with life-threatening ulcer disease. In the adolescent, giant duodenal ulcers consequent to loss of all large end 90% of the small bowel healed rapidly despite marked persistent hypergestrinemia (5 x's normal). Ulceretion recurred within 10 deys after drug discontinuation necessitating its resumption end ongoing use. Major hemorrhage from struss ulcers (steroid-induced, biliary atresis/post-Kasal operation) in the other two children ceased within 24 hours after institution of cimstidine. Serial gastric acid studies in the smaller children shoved inconstant control of gastric secretion probably due to lack of experience with dosage. Nevertheless, there was prompt radiographic healing of duodenal ulceration in both patients. Drug toxicity was monitored by sequential hematologic, renal, hepatic and neurologic studies. Although most likely not drug-related, a trensient decreese in bile output in one patient and lethargy in another represented the only possible toxic side effects observed thus far.
Cooling rates of seven hexahedrites

Abstract Cooling rates for seven hexahedrites, (Uwet, Coahuila, Walker County, Lombard, Quillagua, Hex River Mountains and Tocopilla) have been determined using a ternary diffusion controlled phase growth analysis developed by the authors. The model is applied to the exsolution and growth of plate phosphides in the kamacite phase of hexahedrites during cooling of the meteorite in its parent body. The effects of cooling rate, bulk composition, nucleation temperature and diffusion field length are considered. A unique cooling rate was determined by comparing the Ni content and width of several phosphides in a given hexahedrite to computer-generated curves of Ni content vs phosphide width. Six hexahedrites have cooling rates of approximately 2°C/106yr. One hexahedrite, Coahuila, has a somewhat higher cooling rate of 10°C/106 yr. These cooling rates fall within the range calculated by an independent method for octahedrites. The cooling rate analysis indicates that the hexahedrites, except for one possible exception, were formed in or close to the core of a parent body ~ 150 km in radius.
Depletion of biogenic amines and enhancement of cholinergic activity in the olfactory bulb and central olfactory connections with chronic methedrine intoxication

Em sequencia a estudos anteriores os autores visam, neste relato, a apresentar as alteracoes histoquimicas que ocorrem no sistema olfatorio de gatos nos quais se desenvolveu nitida estereotipia de fungacao (sniffing) apos administracao prolongada de metedrina. Foram intoxicados 12 gatos mediante injecoes diarias, durante 10 dias, de doses progressivas de metedrina. Os tecidos a examinar (bulbos olfatorios e suas conexoes centrais) foram preparados histoquimicamente para demonstrar a fluorescencia das aminas biogenicas e reacoes colinergicas. Mediante algumas modificacoes a metodologia recomendada por outros pesquisadores, os autores puderam demonstrar a presenca de monoaminas e de acetilcolina no bulbo olfatorio e de grupos de fibras adrenergicas curtas e multi-ramificadas que parecem ser conectadas com os neuronios fluorescentes do bulbo olfatorio, a partir de onde estabelecem conexoes, pelo tracto olfatorio medial, com os neuronios do septum e, pelo tracto olfatorio lateral, com os neuronios do complexo amigdaloide.
Excretion, distribution and metabolism of S-(2,4-dinitrophenyl) glutathione in the American cockroach

Abstract The excretion, distribution and metabolism of S-(2,4-dinitrophenyl) glutathione was investigated in adult American cockroaches, Periplaneta americana (L.). One day after administration 50% of the injected dose was excreted as the glutathione conjugate and its mercapturic acid. Three days after treatment about 40% of the initial dose was still present in the roaches, primarily in the abdomen. The metabolites identified in the roach suggest mercapturic acid synthesis, as in higher organisms.
PDT: loss of autophagic cytoprotection after lysosomal photodamage

Photodynamic therapy is known to evoke both autophagy and apoptosis. Apoptosis is an irreversible death pathway while autophagy can serve a cytoprotective function. In this study, we examined two photosensitizing agents that target lysosomes, although they differ in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) formed during irradiation. With both agents, the 'shoulder' on the PDT dose-response curve was substantially attenuated, consistent with loss of a cytoprotective pathway. In contrast, this 'shoulder' is commonly observed when PDT targets mitochondria or the ER. We propose that lysosomal targets may offer the possibility of promoting PDT efficacy by eliminating a potentially protective pathway.
A note on brother inheritance

Abstract This comment examines Hartung's recent suggestion that passing inheritance to a man's brother may be a means of avoiding the consequences of low paternity confidence in nonmatrilineal societies.
Organic trace minerals in ruminant nutrition

This paper defines the various types (complexes, amino acid chelates and proteinates) of organic trace minerals commercially available and reviews research regarding their bioavailability and effects on physiological responses in ruminants. The addition of one or more organic trace minerals to cattle diets has increased growth, milk production, reproduction- and/or immune response in some studies. It is not possible to determine from some of the studies if the responses observed were due to the organic mineral(s) per se or simply to increased dietary mineral intake. Zinc methionine has been studied to the greatest extent of any of the chelated or metal complex products available. The mode of action of trace mineral chelates or complexes is largely unknown. Based on apparent absorption or tissue and blood concentrations, little evidence is available to suggest that organic trace minerals are considerably better absorbed than inorganic forms. In explaining the beneficial responses to certain organic trace minerals, the quantity of mineral absorbed may not be as important as the form of the mineral absorbed. Further studies with organic trace minerals are needed to better define conditions where performance or health responses may be expected and to determine the mode of action whereby organic trace mineral supplements improve ruminant performance.
Neurogenic Actions of Atypical Antipsychotic Drugs and Therapeutic Implications

Brain imaging and postmortem studies have reported a reduction in the volume of discrete brain regions, as well as cellular abnormalities in schizophrenic patients. In addition, basic research studies have demonstrated effects of antipsychotic drugs on cell morphology and number. Of particular interest is adult neurogenesis, which has been linked to cognitive and memory improvements, and is also associated with the behavioural actions of antidepressants. While the action of antidepressant treatment is restricted mainly to the hippocampus, long-term administration of antipsychotics is reported to increase neurogenesis in the subventricular zone (SVZ), as well as the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the hippocampus. In addition, antipsychotic drugs increase the proliferation of non-neuronal cell types in the prefrontal cortex and could thereby influence the function of this brain region. Typical and atypical antipsychotic drugs differentially regulate neurogenesis in the SVZ and SGZ. Although the therapeutic relevance remains speculative, the results are consistent with the hypothesis that the actions of antipsychotic agents could be mediated, in part, by increased proliferation of neuronal as well as glial cells. Additional animal studies and postmortem analyses are required to further test this possibility and to investigate the relevance of this work in the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia.
Skeletal modeling of ice leads

A morphological, model-based method for the automatic identification of ice leads is presented. The morphological model is based on skeletons, a tool from mathematical morphology that provides a structural description of ice lead shape. The model provides a significant reduction in the space needed to store an image with virtually no loss of morphological information. To illustrate the use of skeletons, various lead statistics, such as length and area, are calculated from lead skeletons and used to assess the effect of image smoothing and thresholding. >
Resting energy expenditure in the critically ill: estimations versus measurement.

A prospective trial was conducted in 20 surgical intensive care unit patients receiving mechanical ventilation to compare estimates of resting energy expenditure (REE) with the measured values. The 12 women and 8 men (mean age 61.7 +/- 2.8 (s.e.m.) years) underwent a full nutritional assessment before measurement of their REE by indirect calorimetry using the MGM II metabolic cart (Utah Medical). Their REE was estimated by the Harris-Benedict formula (mean 1324 +/- 53 (s.e.m.) kcal/day) as well as an empirical formula (where empirical formula = 22 x body weight in kg) (1370 +/- 68 (s.e.m.) kcal/day). Results by either estimate were not statistically different from the measured resting energy expenditure (MREE) (1382 +/- 130 (s.e.m.) kcal/day), by one-way analysis of variance. No multiplication factors were needed to relate the Harris-Benedict formula to MREE in this critically ill population and the estimate by the empirical formula was as good and simpler to perform. Although values by the Harris-Benedict formula and empirical formula correlated significantly with MREE (P less than 0.05) the correlation coefficients were low: 0.48 and 0.45 respectively. Thus, mean estimates were excellent for the group but less predictive for the individual. Multiple linear regressions did reveal that body composition and metabolic stress were of greater predictive value, since an equation relating weight (P less than 0.003), sex (P less than 0.003), white blood cell count (P less than 0.003) and 24-h urinary creatinine excretion (P less than 0.05) could predict 76 per cent of the variation (r = 0.87) in the MREE with an overall significance of P = 0.0002. Given the importance of matching energy intake to needs in many critically ill patients who are mechanically ventilated, accurate measurement of the REE is recommended now that instrumentation is equal to the task.
Crystal growth of calcium oxalate monohydrate

Abstract The kinetics of crystal growth of calcium oxalate monohydrate has been investigated up to very large extents of growth over a range of supersaturations maintained using the Constant Composition technique. It is suggested that the initial rapid growth of aged seed crystals resulting in marked lattice perfection, reduces the density of growth sites on the crystal surfaces. A method for the preparation of perfected crystallites of calcium oxalate monohydrate through pregrowth of aged crystals has been developed. At large extents of growth with respect to initial seed crystals ( > 200% for aged crystals and 30–60% for pregrown crystals), the rates of crystallization at constant supersaturation undergo marked increases accompanying the formulation of secondary nuclei. These nucleation thresholds depend both upon supersaturation and upon the initial specific surface area of the crystallites and may be important factors in the formation of calcium oxalate stones in vivo. Experiments in whole urine suggest that the kinetics of growth, secondary nucleation, aggregation and cementation of particles may be important factors in kidney stone formation.
Estimation of Nonresponse Bias

An imputation procedure is used to estimate the effects of nonresponse on issues of substantive interest in a social survey. Using this method, one can determine that nonresponse bias may have diff...
The Destiny of Freedom: Political Cycles in the Twentieth Century

Buultjens addresses the problem of integration and fragmentation in considering the cyclical patterns of democracy and the question of whether or not his most recent democratic moment will hold. His work builds on a basic question as to how citizens and leaders can “adhere to the middle of the road paved by traditional values when the course of history is moving groups and nations toward narrowly defined, self-serving solutions.” He finds some reasons for optimism in the new political realities that are potential sources for constructive integration. He discusses the future prospects for democracy by asking whether the present “democratic starburst” can be translated into durable systems and working institutions.
Noninvasive assessment of early kidney allograft dysfunction by blood oxygen level-dependent magnetic resonance imaging.

BACKGROUND Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive method to assess tissue oxygen bioavailability, using deoxyhemoglobin as an endogenous contrast agent. We hypothesized that BOLD-MRI could accurately discriminate different types of rejection early after kidney transplantation. METHODS Twenty-three patients underwent imaging in the first four months posttransplant. Five had normal functioning transplants and 18 had biopsy-proven acute allograft dysfunction (acute tubular necrosis [ATN, n=5] and acute rejection [n=13] including borderline rejection: n=3; IA rejection: n=4; IIA rejection: n=6: C4d(+) rejection: n=9). RESULTS Mean medullary R2* (MR2*) levels (a measure directly proportional to tissue deoxyhemoglobin levels) were significantly higher in normal functioning allografts (R2*=24.3/s+/-2.3) versus acute rejection (R2*=16.6/s+/-2.1) and ATN (R2*=20.9/s+/-1.8) (P<0.05). The lowest MR2* levels were observed in acute rejection episodes with vascular injury i.e. IIA and C4d (+). Similarly, the lowest medullary to cortical R2* ratios (MCR2*) were present in allografts with IIA (1.24+/-0.05) and C4d(+) rejection (1.26+/-0.06). ROC curve analyses suggested that MR2* and MCR2* values could accurately discriminate acute rejection in the early posttransplant period. CONCLUSIONS BOLD-MRI demonstrated significant changes in medullary oxygen bioavailability in allografts with biopsy-proven ATN and acute rejection, suggesting that there may be a role for this noninvasive tool to evaluate kidney function early after transplantation.
Isolation and characterization of plasma membrane associated immunoglobulin from cultured human diploid lymphocytes.

Abstract The lactoperoxidase iodination method was adapted to label surface proteins of cultured diploid human lymphocytes. Membrane associated immunoglobulin of the μ,K type was isolated from WIL 2 -A3 cells as well as from their purified membrane preparations by detergent solubilization of labeled membrane proteins and subsequent precipitation with specific antisera. These data indicate that using our conditions all of the labeled immunoglobulin was membrane bound. The molecular weight of the bound molecule was estimated to be 265,000±15,800 by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis and on reduction was separated into proteins with molecular sizes identical to μ and light-chain markers. The combination of two μ and two light chains to give an “IgM monomer” configuration should give a molecular weight of 180,000 to 200,000. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are discussed.
Functional Screening of Drug Target Genes

Background and objectives: A number of recent studies surveying single nucleotide polymorphisms within the exonic regions of human genes have revealed a significant number of such variants, including many non-synonymous variants. This highlights the need to directly identify, within individual clinically well-defined patients, those variants that alter protein function as well as structure. We report on the development of a novel phenotypic screening process that combines high-throughput molecular cloning techniques with functional expression utilizing the cell-based assay R-SAT. Methods: We applied the phenotypic screening process to an analysis of the m1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (CHRM1) gene in a cohort of 74 individuals, including 48 diagnosed with neurodegenerative disease, primarily Alzheimer disease, who have been stratified according to their clinical response to the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil. Phenotypic screening of the CHRM1 gene involved PCR-based amplification from genomic DNA and heterologous expression in mammalian cells. Results: Phenotypic screening yielded functional responses to the agonist carbachol displaying a mean potency (−pEC50 ± standard deviation) of 5.8 ± 0.2, which did not differ from that observed with expression of the wild-type receptor gene (6.0 ± 0.3). No altered levels of constitutive receptor activity were observed. Dideoxy sequencing did not reveal any non-synonymous variants in the coding exon of this gene within this clinical cohort, while detecting three synonymous variants. Conclusion: The results confirm that the m1 receptor gene (CHRM1) is not highly polymorphic in the human population, suggesting that genetic variation within the coding exon of this gene is not a contributing factor to the clinical variability observed during treatment of dementia with cholinergic enhancement therapies.
In defence of a perspectival semantics for ‘know’

Relativism offers an ingenious way of accommodating most of our intuitions about ‘know’: the truth-value of sentences containing ‘know’ is a function of parameters determined by a context of use and a context of assessment. This sort of double-indexing provides a more adequate account of the linguistic data involving ‘know’ than does standard contextualism. However, relativism has come under recent attack: it supposedly cannot account for the factivity of ‘know’, and it entails, counterintuitively, that circumstances of evaluation have features that cannot be shifted by any intensional operator. I offer replies to these objections on behalf of the relativist. I then argue that a version of contextualism can account for the same data as relativism without relativizing sentence truth to contexts of assessment. This version of contextualism is thus preferable to relativism on methodological grounds.
Interaction between quaternary ammonium ions in the pore of potassium channels. Evidence against an electrostatic repulsion mechanism.

We have examined the interaction between internal and external ions in the pore of potassium channels. We found that external tetraethylammonium was able to antagonize block of Shaker channels by internal TEA when the external and internal solutions contained K+ ions. This antagonism was absent in solutions with Rb+ as the only permeant ion. An externally applied trivalent TEA analogue, gallamine, was less effective than the monovalent TEA in inhibiting block by internal TEA. In addition, block by external TEA was little affected by changes in the concentration of internal K+ ions, but was increased by the presence of internal Na+ ions in the pore. These results demonstrate that external and internal TEA ions, likely located at opposite ends of the pore selectivity filter, do not experience a mutual electrostatic repulsion. We found that these results can be simulated by a simple 4-barrier-3-site permeation model in which ions compete for available binding sites without long-range electrostatic interactions.
Human-computer interface laboratory—Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (lab review)

A description of the staff, facilities, and research focus of the Human-Computer Interface Laboratory at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is provided. Representative research projects as well as the relationship between this laboratory and the human factors engineering graduate program are also described.
Docking Control System for a 54-cm-Diameter (21-in) AUV

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI, Moss Landing, CA) has developed a 54-cm-diameter (21-in) docking AUV and companion docking station. This program resulted in four consecutive successful autonomous homing and docking events in the open ocean, which included downloading data, uploading a new mission plan, recharging the battery, and complete power cycling of the AUV. We describe the design, simulation, and at-sea test of the homing and docking control system.
Physical mapping of adeno-associated virus serotype 4 DNA.

Abstract The organization of adeno-associated virus serotype 4 (AAV 4) DNA was probed by using restriction enzymes. The cleavage sites of the following enzymes were mapped: BglII, BamI, HincII, KpnI, PstI, SalI, SstI, and XhoI. The orientation of transcription on the physical cleavage map was determined by locating the fragments which contain the 3' end of the mRNA. Strand separation gels were run for HinII fragments of AAV 4 DNA. By hybridizing AAV 4 mRNA to the resolved strands, the polarity of the DNA strands was identified. Restriction digestion of AAV 4 DNA sometimes produced terminal fragments which migrated in agarose gels as doublets. However, when AAV 4 DNA was prepared devoid of any single-stranded nicks, these terminal doublet bands were not observed upon subsequent restriction analysis. During these studies, the molecular weights of both AAV 4 and AAV 2 duplex DNA were measured and were found to be somewhat larger than previously reported (3.18 x 10(6) and 3.10 x 10(6), respectively).
Electrodeposition of Group III Doped PbTe Nanowires

Nanowire arrays of PbTe were electrodeposited into porous alumina templates with 40nm pores. Citric acid was used as a complexing agent for HTeO2+ shifting the reduction potential of HTeO2+/Te closer to that of Pb2+/Pb. Compositional analysis of the wires grown with the complexing agent show a 1:1 ratio of Pb:Te without any excess tellurium. Group III elements (In3+ and Tl+) can be added to the deposition solution and incorporated into the nanowires. It is proposed that indium incorporates into the PbTe lattice in a high energy interstitial site causing the lattice parameter to increase linearly with increasing indium incorporation. The addition of thallium to the deposition solution leads to a mixture of PbTe and TlTe nanowires. Upon annealing, the TlTe melts incongruently to Tl5Te3, which then alloys with PbTe, thereby increasing the lattice parameter.
Utilitarian moral judgment in psychopathy

Psychopathic behavior is characteristically amoral, but to date research studies have largely failed to identify any systematic differences in moral judgment capability between psychopaths and non-psychopaths. In this study, we investigate whether significant differences in moral judgment emerge when taking into account the phenotypic heterogeneity of the disorder through a well-validated distinction between psychopathic subtypes. Three groups of incarcerated participants [low-anxious psychopaths (n ¼ 12), high-anxious psychopaths (n ¼ 12) and non-psychopaths (n ¼ 24)] completed a moral judgment test involving hypothet
The Conservation Of Resources model applied to work–family conflict and strain.

Abstract As more employees are juggling work and family demands, it is important for researchers to study the consequences of role stress and work–family conflict. In this study, predictions for a sample of university professors were based on past research and Hobfoll's (1989) Conservation of Resources Theory. Using a time-lagged research design and path analysis, we assessed the relationships of work and family stressors with outcomes of work, family, and life distress, physical health, and turnover intentions. The proposed path model was generally supported. In addition, we extended the work of other researchers by testing the moderating effects of self-esteem. Self-esteem was not found to be a moderating variable, although its main effects explained variance in the outcomes. Last, we describe and analyze qualitative data about the changes this sample experienced between the first and second data collection.
Interactions of biological and herbicidal management of Melaleuca quinquenervia with fire: Consequences for ecosystem services

Exotic plant species invasion can alter ecosystem nutrient dynamics and natural disturbance patterns. The Australian tree Melaleuca quinquenervia has extensively invaded the Florida Everglades and is cur- rently being suppressed using mechanical, herbicidal, and biological control management strategies. While these methods have been evaluated based on reductions in density and abundance of the target weed, other factors should be considered including consequences for ecosystem nutrient storages and interactions with natural disturbances such as fire. We hypothesized that the choice of management tac- tics, namely herbicidal or biological control, would differentially influence the quantity and availability of soil nutrients before and after a seasonal fire. The management of M. quinquenervia with a herbicide reduced the above- and belowground storage of nutrients both before and after a fire compared to a non-invaded area, while biological control increased storage. There were no differences in nitrogen avail- ability between sites (non-invaded, herbicide, biological control) in the 0-5 cm or 5-15 cm soil depths before or after the fire. Pre-fire phosphorus availability was highest in the non-invaded site in the 0- 5 cm soil depth and in the biological control site in the 5-15 cm soil depth. However, phosphorus avail- ability was highest at both depths in the herbicide site post-fire. Biological control of M. quinquenervia using insect herbivores has proven to be effective at controlling plant growth and reproduction. The results of this study suggest that this method may have less of an impact on nutrient storage and cycling than herbicides.
NiagaraCQ: a scalable continuous query system for Internet databases

Continuous queries are persistent queries that allow users to receive new results when they become available. While continuous query systems can transform a passive web into an active environment, they need to be able to support millions of queries due to the scale of the Internet. No existing systems have achieved this level of scalability. NiagaraCQ addresses this problem by grouping continuous queries based on the observation that many web queries share similar structures. Grouped queries can share the common computation, tend to fit in memory and can reduce the I/O cost significantly. Furthermore, grouping on selection predicates can eliminate a large number of unnecessary query invocations. Our grouping technique is distinguished from previous group optimization approaches in the following ways. First, we use an incremental group optimization strategy with dynamic re-grouping. New queries are added to existing query groups, without having to regroup already installed queries. Second, we use a query-split scheme that requires minimal changes to a general-purpose query engine. Third, NiagaraCQ groups both change-based and timer-based queries in a uniform way. To insure that NiagaraCQ is scalable, we have also employed other techniques including incremental evaluation of continuous queries, use of both pull and push models for detecting heterogeneous data source changes, and memory caching. This paper presents the design of NiagaraCQ system and gives some experimental results on the system's performance and scalability.