cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microvascular Effects Of Photodynamic Therapy.

Tumor destruction in photodynamic therapy is the result of the combination of direct cellular toxicity and damage to tumor microvasculature. These phenomena appear to be caused by tissue interactions with toxic oxygen compounds which are formed when light interacts with photosensitizing agents. Although injury to cell membranes, mitochondria and the nucleus have been noted, such injuries by themselves tend to be sublethal and cannot totally account for the effectiveness of PDT. The mechanism of effect of PDT on the vasculature has not been fully investigated. The vascular effects are believed to involve both intravascular and perivascular phenomena. Platelet aggregation appears to be an early event. Changes to the endothelium, and smooth muscle contraction as well as increased capillary permeability have also been observed during therapy. Initial experiments using'cyclooxygenase inhibitors indicate that arachidonic acid metabolites are active elements in producing the vascular phase of the therapeutic response and that these microvasculature effects appear to be critical to permanent tumor destruction.© (1989) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
SOME WASTE‐HEAT DRIER CALCULATIONS AND CHARTS1

Equations were developed which, when used in conjunction with hygrometric charts, enabled the usual waste-heat drier calculations involving heat supply and water removal to be performed by direct substitution. These equations were used in preparing charts showing the effect of (1) atmospheric humidity conditions, and (2) air discharge temperature on the operation of a typical waste-heat drier. The advantages which might result from the control of the initial moisture content of the air used in drying and the feasibility of using silica gel for this purpose are discussed. Changes in drier design which would permit higher exit temperatures for the air used in drying are suggested by the outcome of the calculations.
Geomicrobiology of selenium: Life and death by selenite

Abstract Selenite oxyanions are readily assimilated by microorganisms for the synthesis of selenoproteins. However, at elevated concentrations, selenite becomes highly toxic due to the intracellular formation of reactive oxygen species. Remarkably, some microorganisms have evolved the ability to not only survive toxic levels of selenite, but to flourish in its presence. The cultivation and genomic sequencing of dissimilatory selenite-respiring Bacteria and Archaea have begun to help elucidate the molecular mechanisms of selenite respiration.
MO-B-110-02: IHE & DICOM - Current Efforts

The Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) standard group, managed by the NEMA Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance (MITA), has a long history during which AAPM members have contributed to the development of imaging systems standards. Highlights of notable past efforts will be reviewed and currently active efforts summarized. In comparison, Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) International has a large number of member organizations, including AAPM, who work together to improve the interoperability of healthcare information systems. Imaging systems have represented a major focus of IHE efforts to date. Opportunities for Medical Physicists to contribute to currently active IHE efforts will be reviewed. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand how Medical Physicists have made important contributions to the current DICOM standard, 2. Learn of new DICOM efforts that will significantly impact imaging systems operations, and 3. Become aware of opportunities to contribute to IHE Imaging integration efforts.
A Voice of Their Own: The Woman Suffrage Press, 1840-1910

"A Voice of Their Own" explores the consciousness-raising role of the American suffrage press of the latter half of the 19th century. From the first women's rights convention - a modest gathering of 300 sympathizers led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton - grew the ever-expanding movement for equal rights, greater protection, and improved opportunities. Although the leaders of that and subsequent conventions realized that such public rallies, with their exhortative speeches, were crucial in gaining support for the movement, they also recognized the potential impact of another medium - the women's suffrage periodicals, written and published by and expressly for women. The 11 essays of this volume demonstrate how the suffrage press - in such works as "Woman's Journal", "Woman's Tribune", "Woman's Exponent", and "Farmer's Wife" - was able to educate an audience of women readers, create a sense of community among them, and help alter their self-image. Contributors to the volume, in addition to the editor, include Thomas R.Burkholder, Bonnie J.Dow, E.Claire Jerry, Edward A.Hinck, Susan Schultz Huxman, Tarla Rai Peterson, Linda Steiner, Mari Boor Tonn, and Marsha L.Vanderford.
SU-E-T-420: Optimizing Accuracy of the Brain Lab SRS Mask System On a Varian TrueBeam Linac

Purpose: Compare the geometric accuracy of the BrainLab cone SRS system with paper target overlays against the Varian TrueBeam CBCT image guidance system as well as to optimize CT protocols for planning. Methods: A head phantom with rigid geometric inserts (mounted in the BrainLab headring) was used to test the localization accuracy of the BrainLab system and the TrueBeam CBCT system. A 2 mm diameter BB (to act as a target) was placed on one of the surfaces inside the phantom. Planning CT scans were acquired with both helical and sequential techniques with a range of slice thicknesses. Localization was performed using the BrainLab CT/X‐ray localizer box and subsequent planning was performed in iPlan. Printed target position overlays were then used to set up the phantom on the TrueBeam. A CBCT was acquired, 3D/3D matching was performed, and the differences in position between the paper printouts and 3D/3D match were recorded. Position of laser intersection on BB target was used as the standard for accuracy assessment. Results: The BrainLab localization system was found to align the phantom to within approximately 1.0 mm in any one direction of the target BB center. CBCT image guidance with 3D/3D matching was able to improve alignment to within approximately 0.5 mm in any one direction. The observed difference is partially attributed to a 0.1° mechanical misalignment of the couch mount and thus in the BrainLab localizer box. Conclusion: CBCT guidance was found to be more accurate than BrainLab localizer alone. Oversampled, helical scanning for planning is recommended because of the smooth table motion, quicker scan time, and no loss of localization accuracy compared to sequential scanning. Quality assurance testing of the CBCT system accuracy should be performed after verifying the lasers with the standard Winston‐Lutz test and just prior to each treatment.
Comprehensive assessment of the slice sensitivity profiles in breast tomosynthesis and breast CT

Purpose: This study experimentally evaluated the slice sensitivity profile (SSP) and its relationship between acquisition angle, object size, and cone angle. The sensitivity profile metric was used to characterize a breast tomosynthesis system's resolution in the z-axis. The SSP was also measured on a prototype breast computed tomography (bCT) system. Methods: The SSP was measured using brass disks placed within adipose tissue-equivalent breast phantoms. The digital tomosynthesissystem (Selenia Dimensions, Hologic Corporation, Bedford, MA) acquires projection images over a 15° angular range and the bCT scanner acquires projection images over a 360° angular range. Angular ranges between 15° and 360° were studied by using a subset of the projection images acquired on the bCT scanner. The SSP was determined by measuring a background-corrected mean gray scale value as a function of the z-position (axis normal to the plane of the detector). Results: The results show that SSP improves when the angular acquisition range is increased and the SSP approaches a delta function for angles greater than 180°. Smaller objects have a narrower SSP and the SSP is not significantly dependent on the cone angle. For a 2.5, 5, 10 mm disk, the full width at half maximum of the SSP was 35, 61, 115 mm, respectively, on the tomosynthesissystem (at 15°) and was 0.5 mm for all disk diameters on the bCT scanner (at 360°). Conclusions: The SSP is dependent on object size and angular acquisition range. These dependencies are overcome once the angular acquisition range is increased beyond 180°.
Activation of Calcineurin Involves a Folding Upon Binding Event

Calcineurin (CaN) is a highly-conserved, ubiquitous Ser/Thr phosphatase that plays vital roles in memory development and retention, cardiac growth, and immune system activation. Alterations in the regulation of CaN contributes to disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, autoimmune disorders and cardiac hypertrophy. The regulation of CaN function is not well understood at the molecular level. CaN is inactive until bound by calmodulin (CaM). We will present evidence that CaM binds to a 95 residue disordered regulatory domain in CaN. The binding of CaM to CaN results in the regulatory domain folding. Folding of the regulatory domain in turn causes an autoinhibitory domain located C-terminal to the regulatory domain to be ejected from CaN's active site. This binding-induced disorder-to-order transition is responsible for the activation of CaN by CaM.
A numerical study of scattering by large dielectric spheres

Normalized scattering phase functions and extinction efficiencies for homogeneous dielectric spheres with size parameters 200 ≤ x ≤ 4520 and refractive index m = 1.333 − Oi are calculated directly from Mie theory. The results are compared to predictions cited in the literature. Averages of the angular structure and magnitude of the glory are given as a function of the dimensionless size parameter. The periods and amplitudes of regular oscillations in the backscatter phase function are determined. Distinct backscattering oscillations with periods Δx ≃ 0.41, 0.83, 1.1, and 14 are found.
Investigating environmental effects on small fatigue crack growth in Ti–6242S using combined ultrasonic fatigue and scanning electron microscopy

Abstract In situ ultrasonic fatigue with a cyclic frequency of 20 kHz was employed in an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) to characterize fatigue crack formation and growth in the near alpha titanium alloy Ti–6242S. The role of environment on small fatigue crack initiation and growth was investigated in vacuum and in variable pressures of saturated water vapor, as well as in laboratory air. Small crack growth behavior from cracks initiated at FIB-produced micro-notches indicated a significant environmental dependence, with fatigue crack growth rates increasing with increasing partial pressures of water vapor. Environment also influenced crack initiation lifetime in that cracks initiated earlier in laboratory air than in vacuum or saturated water vapor environments. Transgranular, crystallographic crack growth was observed in each environment, with the crack path in primary α grains producing facets parallel to basal planes when crack size was small. Small crack growth resistance had a marked sensitivity to microstructural features, such as α/α grain boundaries with high misorientation and α/α + β boundaries. These initial investigations demonstrate the usefulness of in situ ultrasonic fatigue instrumentation (UF-SEM) as a new tool for the characterization of environmental and microstructural influences on very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) behavior.
In-vitro ablation of fibrocartilage by XeCl excimer laser

A 308 nm excimer laser was employed for ablation of human fibrocartilage. Experiments were conducted in vitro. The tissue response was investigated with respect to dosimetry (ablation rate versus radiant exposure) and thermal effect (thermographic analysis). Irradiation was performed via a 600 um fiber, with radiant exposures ranging between 20mj/mm2 and 80mj/mm2, at 20Hz. The ablation rates were found to range from 3um/pulse to 80um/pulse depending on the radiant exposure and/or the applied pressure on the delivery system. Thermographic analysis, during ablation, revealed maximum average temperatures of about 65 degree(s)C. Similar measurements performed, for the purpose of comparison, with a CW Nd:YAG and a CW CO2 laser showed higher values, of the order of 200 degree(s)C.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Evolution of Microstructure Due to Heat Treatment on Highly Porous Copper/Silver Systems

The sintering phenomenon is examined in highly porous materials by first cold pressing powdered copper and silver and separately heat treating them in an un-pressurized furnace. The initial microstructure prior to heat treatment as compared to that after heat treatment showed similar characteristics regardless of the material or powder geometry. However, after heat treatment, there are significantly different microstructures among samples. The microstructures depend on the maximum furnace temperature, the particle geometry, material composition, and the particle surface area. While the microstructures change significantly, there is no change in porosity between pre- and post-heat treated samples.© 2007 ASME
A guide to conducting online research

A guide to conducting online research, by Ted J. Gaiser and Anthony E. Schreiner, London, Sage Publications, 2009, 184 pp., $44.95 (paperback, ISBN 9781412922906 These days, novice and seasoned res...
Olecranon Fractures Repaired With FiberWire or Metal Wire Tension Banding: A Biomechanical Comparison

Purpose: Tension band constructs are commonly used for olecranon fracture fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine if a tension band constructed of FiberWire (Arthrex, Naples, FL), a high-strength polyester and polyethylene suture, will provide fixation that is equivalent to an 18-gauge metal wire tension band. Methods: The following 4 fixation methods were biomechanically tested in cadaveric elbows with a simulated transverse olecranon fracture: (1) Kirschner wires (K-wires) with an 18-gauge metal wire tension band, (2) K-wires with a FiberWire tension band, (3) intramedullary screw with an 18-gauge metal wire tension band, and (4) intramedullary screw with a FiberWire tension band. Each elbow underwent all 4 repair methods. The K-wire repairs were performed first followed by the intramedullary screw repairs. The order of the tension band (FiberWire or metal wire) was randomly assigned. Specimens were tested under cyclic loading conditions that simulated stresses generated by (1) active range of motion and (2) pushing up from a chair. Fracture displacement was recorded by using transducers placed at the articular surface of the fracture and on the posterior surface of the olecranon. Results: There were no significant differences in fracture displacement associated with the use of a high-strength suture or metal wire tension band under conditions simulating active range of motion or a more vigorous physiologic stress. Also, there were no significant differences associated with the use of an intramedullary screw versus K-wire fixation under either condition. Conclusions: The biomechanical characteristics of high-strength suture tension bands are equivalent to 18-gauge metal wire tension bands when used with either an intramedullary screw or K-wires. The fatigue patterns of high-strength suture tension bands and metal wire tension bands are similar. There is not a significant difference between the biomechanical strength of intramedullary screw fixation constructs and K-wire constructs. Clinical Relevance: FiberWire tension bands may be used in place of metal wire tension bands without sacrificing fixation strength.
Fine Structure of the Oral Area of Tetrahymena patula

SYNOPSIS. In axenic culture, the polymorphic ciliate, Tetrahymena patula, consists of two cell types, a small mouthed form (microstome) and a larger carnivorous macrostome both of which possess the tetrahymenal-type buccal apparatus. With the exception of over-all size, only minor differences were found in the structure of the oral area of the two cell types. Each of the membranelles, which lie on the left wall of the buccal cavity, consists of three long rows of kinetosomes with attached cilia. A series of parallel fibers originating at the base of the inner row of kinetosomes in each membranelle runs toward the adjacent, lower membranelle or in the case of the third membranelle toward the junction of the left and right walls of the buccal cavity. After a short distance, a portion of each fiber rises and subdivides to form a periodic array of fine fibrils which lie immediately under the pellicle and run parallel with the long axes of the membranelles. The remaining portion of these kinetosomal fibers continues through the cytoplasm to connect with the kinetosomes of the next membranelle. The undulating membrane, which borders the right wall of the buccal overture, consists of a single row of cilia. Examinations of thin sections show, however, that there are actually two rows of kinetosomes in the membrane base. The outer row is ciliated while the inner row of kinetosomes, which are alternately spaced relative to those in the outer row, lies deeper in the cytoplasm and has no cilia. Fibers project straight down from the base of kinetosomes in both rows and join to form a tangled network which underlies the entire length of the membrane. The oral ribs begin near the base of the undulating membrane and descend in decreasing number to the cytopharynx. There is a connection between the fiber system of the undulating membrane and the tips of the oral ribs. The ribs appear in cross section as raised, thickened ridges of the inner pellicular layer with the outer layer adhering only at the top of the ridges. Immediately underlying the oral rib area is a relatively thick differentiated layer composed of fine fibers within a ground substance.
Levels of Insecticide Resistance in Fresh‐water Shrimp, Palaemonetes kadiakensis

Abstract In 24-hr bioassays, fresh-water shrimp, Palaemonetes kadiakensis, from 3 areas of intensive pesticide use in the Mississippi delta were 1 to 25 times more resistant to 7 organochlorine, 3 organophosphorus, and 1 carbamate insecticides than shrimp from Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge (Bluff Lake). Although populations differed in amount of resistance, the relative toxicity of the insecticides was similar. Toxicity of the insecticides, ranked in descending order, was as follows: Most toxic, endrin, DDT, methyl parathion, parathion; medium toxicity, Guthion, lindane, toxaphene, Strobane; least toxic, chlordane, Sevin, and heptachlor. When caged in a canal near cotton fields, susceptible shrimp suffered 66% more mortality than did native, resistant shrimp.
A Multiple-Outcome Evaluation of Training Parents in Active Listening

To examine the effects of training parents in active listening parents of 32 children in Grades 4 to 8 were randomly assigned to one of three counseling groups or a no-treatment control group. The counseling groups, which met for six 2-hr. sessions, were taught active listening skills. Parents showed decreases in anxiety and increases in confidence, knowledge of how to respond to children's feelings, and active listening. However, there were no changes in children's attitudes or behaviors. Research should determine ways in which parents' reflective counseling can benefit children.
Measurement of relative transition probabilities for some lines of the Cu I, A1 I, and Mo I spectra

Abstract Relative transition probabilities for certain lines in the spectra of Cu I, A1 I, and Mo I have been measured spectroscopically using a high current argon arc plasma as a means of excitation. The element of interest was added to the arc plasma by mixing the metal in dust form with the argon gas prior to entering the arc chamber. Due account was taken of the radial temperature distribution in the arc and of self-absorption in some of the stronger lines.
Interhemispheric transcallosal approach for resection of intraventricular central neurocytoma

The interhemispheric transcallosal approach is a versatile approach to access intraventricular tumors of the lateral and third ventricles. The advantages of using a transcallosal approach over a classical transcortical approach include a direct midline orientation with symmetrical access to both lateral ventricles and both walls of the third ventricle. In addition, violation of the cerebral cortex and the risk of postoperative seizures can be avoided. Central neurocytomas are rare benign tumors that represent approximately 0.1 to 0.5% of all primary brain tumors. They are typically located in the lateral ventricles and tend to present clinically with hydrocephalus. Currently, surgical removal with a gross-total resection is the treatment of choice. In this operative video manuscript, the author demonstrates an illustrative step-by-step technique for microsurgical resection of a large central neurocytoma involving both lateral ventricles in a patient with hydrocephalus using the interhemispheric transcallosal approach. A complete removal was performed without the need for permanent shunting. The operative technique and surgical nuances, including the surgical approach, intraventricular tumor removal, and closure are illustrated in this video atlas. The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/KzC8QYsTKeg. (http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.V1.FOCUS12353)
New therapies for onychomycosis

Abstract Until recently, the treatment of onychomycosis was discouraging because of the relatively low success rate, the need for prolonged therapy, and the laboratory monitoring necessary with the traditional oral antifungal agents, griseofulvin and ketoconazole. The advent of a new generation of oral antifungal drugs, including two triazoles (itraconazole and fluconazole) and an allylamine (terbinafine), has greatly improved the outlook for patients with fungal nail infections, particularly those with toenail involvement. Recently, the broad-spectrum triazole, itraconazole, has been approved for the treatment of onychomycosis in the U.S. Numerous studies have demonstrated its efficacy when administered either continuously for 3 months or in "pulse" dosing. Preliminary findings suggest that fluconazole and terbinafine are also promising, although their spectrum of activity is not as broad as that of itraconazole.
Every-three-week administration of darbepoetin alfa in women with chemotherapy-associated anemia

Purpose. The effectiveness of every-three-week administration of darbepoetin alfa in women with chemotherapy-associated anemia was evaluated. Methods. Women receiving chemotherapy for gynecological tumors who had a hemoglobin concentration of <10 g/dL were recruited from an obstetrics and gynecology service. Study patients received subcutaneous darbepoetin alfa 6.75 μg/kg, followed by 4.5 μg/kg every three weeks for a total of up to six doses. Hematopoietic response and mean changes in hemoglobin concentrations were evaluated. The Functional Assessment in Cancer Therapy–Anemia (FACT-An) survey was self-administered before and after study completion to evaluate the patients’ quality of life. Results. The mean ± S.D. age and weight for the 14 patients recruited (12 of whom were assessable) were 52.1 ± 14 years and 64.6 ± 19.8 kg, respectively. The mean initial and maintenance doses were 442 and 301.6 μg, respectively. The overall hematopoietic response was 64.3%, of which 35.7% were complete and 28.6% were partial. Peak response occurred at weeks 9 and 12. The mean ± S.D. change in hemoglobin concentration was 1.6 ± 1.51 g/dL. Treatment failure was predicted by week 9 ( n = 2). Maintenance doses were withheld if a patient’s hemoglobin concentration exceeded 12 g/dL ( n = 3). The mean ± S.D. point differential for FACT-An pretreatment and posttreatment scores was 5.8 ± 4.71 ( n = 6). Conclusion. Every-three-week administration of subcutaneous darbepoetin alfa produced a complete or partial hematopoietic response in 11 of 14 women with chemotherapy- associated anemia. A quality-of-life indicator generally improved among the 6 patients for whom posttreatment quality-of-life data were available.
Gram-scale synthesis of (+)-spongistatin 1: development of an improved, scalable synthesis of the F-ring subunit, fragment union, and final elaboration.

In a quest to develop an effective, scalable synthesis of (+)-spongistatin 1 (1), we devised a concise, third-generation scalable synthesis of (+)-7, the requisite F-ring tetrahydropyran aldehyde, ...
A constructive characterization of trees with at least k disjoint maximum matchings

Abstract Let H = F(v) ⊕ G(w) denote the graph obtained from F and G by identifying vertices v of F and w of G; H will be said to be obtained by surgery on F and G. A matching of a graph is a collection of edges, no two of which are incident with the same vertex. This paper presents a constructive characterization of the set Sk (k ≥ 2) of trees which have at least k disjoint maximum matchings. There are three types of surgery such that, for each k ≥ 2, Sk is the set of all trees obtainable from a star K1.n (n ≥ k) by a finite sequence of the specified surgical operations. A constructive characterization is also given for trees with two disjoint maximum indepent vertex sets.
Synthesis of bicyclic quinones via 1,4-diacetoxyanthracene

1,4-Diacetoxyanthracene is introduced as a convenient intermediate for the syntheses of bicyclic quinones and diquinones.
Solid-State Light Amplifiers

A description is given of the different types of solid-state image intensifiers together with a comparison of their methods of operation. The characteristics of photoconductive and electroluminescent materials are summarized with particular emphasis on the problems of their optimum combination in the double-layer type of intensifier with and without optical feedback. The optical and electrical characteristics of the over-all devices are compared, and some of the possible applications, such as their use for radar display and x-ray intensification, are discussed.
Peace, scholarship and disciplinary limits: Postcolonial problems and potential in the study of religion

Abstract Through its explorations of the work of peace in Sri Lanka, Qadri Ismail's Abiding by Sri Lanka offers both a reconceptualization of democracy and a critique of certain academic disciplines as antithetical to peace and opposition to colonialism. This article considers his criticisms of history and anthropology in order to ask whether, in his terms, it would be possible to have a postcolonial, postempiricist analysis of religion. An exploration of the problems that the study of religion, specifically the category of religion and production of religious authority, pose for Ismail's criteria of postcolonial scholarship points toward the limitations of academic disciplinarity.
An offshore eddy in the California current system part II: Surface manifestation

Abstract Ship and satellite observations taken over the last thirty years show that mesoscale patterns of sea surface temperature (SST) in the California Current System are consistently found throughout the year and usually occur in approximately the same geographical locations. Typically, these patterns are more pronounced in fall/winter than in spring/summer. The temporal and spatial characteristics of these persistent feature were examined with satellite infrared (IR) measurements during winter 1980–1981. In January 1981, a ship surveyed the vertical structure of several physical, chemical, and biological parameters beneath one of these SST features centered near 32°N, 124°W. The surface IR pattern had a length scale of 200 km and a time scale of about 100 days. It disintegrated following the first two storms of the winter season. Motion studies of the pattern in late October indicated an anticyclonic rotation with maximum velocities of 50 cm s −1 at 50 km from the axis of rotation. As a unit, the pattern advected southward with an average speed of 1 cm s −1 . Thermal fronts, determined from the satellite imagery, were strongest (0.4°C km −1 ) along the rim of the pattern and were advected anticyclonically with the pattern; their length scales were 20–30 km in the along-front direction and less than 10 km wide. The hydrographic data revealed a three-layer structure beneath the surface pattern; a 75 m deep surface layer, a cold-core region from 75 to 200 m depth, and a warm-core eddy extending from 250 to 1450 m. The anticyclonic motion of the surface layer was caused by a geostrophic adjustment to the surface dynamic height anomaly produced by the subsurface warm-core eddy. The IR pattern observed from space reflects the horizontal structure of the surface layer and is consistent with a theoretical model of a mean horizontal SST gradient perturbed by a subsurface density anomaly. Ship of opportunity SST observations collected by the National Marine Fisheries are shown to resolve mesoscale patterns. For December 1980, the SST pattern near 32°N, 124°W represented a 2°C warm anomaly compared with the 20-year mean monthly SST pattern.
Point of care pregnancy testing provides staff satisfaction but does not change ED length of stay

Point of care testing (POCT) is widely viewed as possibly improving ED care and reducing length of stay (LOS). However reports are mixed, and regulatory barriers complicate considerations. We studied a simple urine pregnancy assay (human chorionic gonadotropin-HCG). LOS was evaluated when HCG was moved from central lab (HCGLab) to POCT (HCGED) in 2 pre-post 3-month periods (958 HCGLab and 1075 HCGED). HCG patients were compared with a similar control group, and staff perceptions were evaluated. There was no change in LOS for HCG patients (36.8 v 50.85 min, P = .33), although there was one marginal finding of improved LOS for patients presenting with abdominal pain diagnosed as pregnant (P = .17). Staff (28/53 physicians, 18/81 nurses) reported HCGED as positive. POCT does not improve LOS for broad groups of patients, although POCT does change the ED environment. Further study is needed to evaluate how the information flow of POCT changes patient care.
T-cell-dependent control of acute Giardia lamblia infections in mice.

We have studied immune mechanisms responsible for control of acute Giardia lamblia and Giardia muris infections in adult mice. Association of chronic G. lamblia infection with hypogammaglobulinemia and experimental infections of mice with G. muris have led to the hypothesis that antibodies are required to control these infections. We directly tested this hypothesis by infecting B-cell-deficient mice with either G. lamblia or G. muris. Both wild-type mice and B-cell-deficient mice eliminated the vast majority of parasites between 1 and 2 weeks postinfection with G. lamblia. G. muris was also eliminated in both wild-type and B-cell-deficient mice. In contrast, T-cell-deficient and scid mice failed to control G. lamblia infections, as has been shown previously for G. muris. Treatment of wild-type or B-cell-deficient mice with antibodies to CD4 also prevented elimination of G. lamblia, confirming a role for T cells in controlling infections. By infecting mice deficient in either abor gd-T-cell receptor (TCR)-expressing T cells, we show that the ab-TCR-expressing T cells are required to control parasites but that the gd-TCR-expressing T cells are not. Finally, infections in mice deficient in production of gamma interferon or interleukin 4 (IL-4) and mice deficient in responding to IL-4 and IL-13 revealed that neither the Th1 nor the Th2 subset is absolutely required for protection from G. lamblia .W e conclude that a T-cell-dependent mechanism is essential for controlling acute Giardia infections and that this mechanism is independent of antibody and B cells.
Jittery Signal Generation for High-Speed Interconnect Simulation

By generating clock and data waveforms in the frequency domain through a truncated Fourier series, absolute control over both voltage noise and symbol transition timing is achieved. A parameterized Fourier series signal model is derived and used to form clock and data waveforms exhibiting arbitrary noise and jitter characteristics. The method not only facilitates more accurate interconnect modeling in tools like Matlab and Simulink, but also provides a simple means for generating realistic signals that may be imported into Spice-based simulators.
Perspectives of approximate dynamic programming

Approximate dynamic programming has evolved, initially independently, within operations research, computer science and the engineering controls community, all search- ing for practical tools for solving sequential stochastic optimization problems. More so than other communities, operations research continued to develop the theory behind the basic model introduced by Bellman with discrete states and actions, even while authors as early as Bellman himself recognized its limits due to the "curse of dimensionality" inherent in discrete state spaces. In response to these limitations, subcommunities in computer science, control theory and operations research have developed a variety of methods for solving dif- ferent classes of stochastic, dynamic optimization problems, creating the appearance of a jungle of competing approaches. In this article, we show that there is actually a common theme to these strategies, and underpinning the entire field remains the fundamental algo- rithmic strategies of value and policy iteration that were first introduced in the 1950's and 60's. Dynamic programming involves making decisions over time, under uncertainty. These problems arise in a wide range of applications, spanning business, science, engineering, economics, medicine and health, and operations. While tremendous successes have been achieved in specific problem settings, we lack general purpose tools with the broad applica- bility enjoyed by algorithmic strategies such as linear, nonlinear and integer programming. This paper provides an introduction to the challenges of dynamic programming, and describes the contributions made by different subcommunities, with special emphasis on computer science which pioneered a field known as reinforcement learning, and the opera- tions research community which has made contributions through several subcommunities, including stochastic programming, simulation optimization and approximate dynamic pro- gramming. Our presentation recognizes, but does not do justice to, the important contribu- tions made in the engineering controls communities.
The once and future analog alternative: evolvable hardware and analog computation

Once-upon-a-time, analog computers co-existed with their digital counterparts and were considered equally useful. For many applications, specifically equation solving and modeling of physical systems, analog computers were often the better choice. The 1970's, however, saw the beginning of the end of this superiority. Advances in digital circuit fabrication and discrete computer algorithms, not to mention significant advantages of economy, generality, and ease of use, precipitated a mass exodus to general-purpose digital computers so complete that there are now many in the current generation who have neither experience with, nor memory of, the analog alternative. The exodus was certainly made for good reasons. However, it may be beneficial, from time to time, to consider if subsequent developments have rendered those reasons less compelling. This first part of this paper will suggest that the emergence of evolvable hardware (EH) is one such development. It will argue that by applying EH methodologies, one might practically restore the benefits of analog computation as well as achieve benefits not possible in earlier times. The second part of this paper will briefly outline a specific program designed to field practical analog EH control devices.
The dilemma of informal governance with outside option as solution

The efficiency-oriented part of the literature on informal governance points to institutional costs as a reason for governments to prefer to cooperate with each other through commitments that are not binding. Left unexplained is what I call the dilemma of informal governance: how informal governance copes with the problem of cheating, to which formal governance has traditionally provided the solution. I show that like-mindedness, the current solution to the dilemma, is convincing but underspecified. Working from a model of governance encompassing the three time-honored dimensions of obligation, precision, and delegation, I analytically explore two other solutions, one that fails, information transmission, another that works, outside option, which I borrow from the power-oriented part of the literature on informal governance. A key finding is that informal governance, despite being neither self-enforceable nor informative, is sustainable for mild Prisoner’s Dilemma (PD) types in the presence of outside options. I illustrate the model findings by tracing an historical correlation between power polarization and formalism in the design of security regimes.
The Spread of Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemases: A Tale of Strains, Plasmids, and Transposons

Carbapenemases are a large and diverse family of microbial enzymes that hydrolyze not only carbapenems but also other b-lactams, with the occasional exception of monobactams, such as aztreonam. For clinicians, the nomenclature of carbapenemases, like that of other b-lactamases, is confusing. In keeping with other b-lactamases, carbapenemases can be classified on the basis of function or structure. The most commonly used classification—Ambler—is based on molecular structure. In this classification, carbapenemases may belong to classes A, B, or D [1]. Class A and D are serine carbapenemases, meaning that they have a serine at their active sites, like extended spectrum b-lactamases (ESBLs). In contrast, the class B enzymes are known as metallo-b-lactamases, because they require zinc as a cofactor [1]. Although the metalloenzymes were first described in the early 1990s, mostly in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, they remain uncommon in the United States [1]. A more recent arrival seems to pose a greater
Analysis and Mathematical Modeling of an On-Line Cotton Moisture Measuring System

We present an analysis of a cotton moisture measuring system designed and de veloped for on-line use in a cotton ginning environment. The development of a math ematical model simulating the system measurements and relating these measurements to the dielectric properties of an inhomogeneous mixture of air, cotton, and water is discussed in detail. We then describe the calibration of the system and compare pre dicted moisture regains, based on our model, to those obtained by the standard oven method. The predicted moistures were within ±0.9 percentage points of those deter mined by the oven method over a range of oven moistures from 7.8% to 17.9%.
Feeding behaviour in Cylindrophis and its bearing on the evolution of alethinophidian snakes

Cylindrophis ruffus ingests prey using two distinct mechanisms. During initial phases of prey transport, lateral movements of the rear of the braincase combine with small unilateral movements of the toothed bones of each side; prey is usually constricted during this phase to permit the snake to push its head over the prey. Once transport has carried the leading part of the prey into the anterior oesophagus, Cylindrophis begins to use bilaterally synchronized movements of the jaw apparatus combined with low-amplitude, short wave-length flexions of the anterior vertebral column. Transport of prey is many times faster during the bilateral phase than during the unilateral phase. Radiographic and cinematographic evidence indicates that the mandibular tips of Cylindrophis do not separate more than 1.5–2.0 times the resting distance between the dentary tips. Although this limits potential gape size, the intramandibular joint is highly mobile, allowing the mandibles to conform to a variety of prey shapes. Manipulations of anaesthetized and fresh, dead specimens revealed that the palatomaxillary arches are tightly attached to the ventral bones of the snout, movements of each arch being reflected in equivalent movements of the ipsilateral elements of the snout. Cylindrophis represents a functional stage intermediate between most lizards with limited palatomaxillary kinesis and advanced snakes with considerable palatomaxillary mobility. Contrary to previous hypotheses, however, upper jaw liberation in Cylindrophis is due to liberation of the ventral snout, not to reduction of attachments to the braincase and snout. This suggests that the nose played a crucial role in the evolution of the feeding apparatus in alethinophidian snakes.
The risks and the benefits of mesalazine as a treatment for ulcerative colitis

Mesalazine is a 5-aminosalicylic acid compound that is the primary treatment for mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis. In both oral and topical formulations it has demonstrated efficacy in both induction of active colitis and maintenance of remission, regardless of the extent of inflammation. In addition, there is indirect evidence of a role in the chemoprophylaxis of colorectal cancer in these patients. Mesalazine is generally well tolerated by patients, although serious adverse effects have been reported. In particular, worsening of colitis, interstitial pneumonitis and nephritis are of concern to clinicians. Fortunately these reactions are mostly reversible with cessation of therapy.
Heat-Transfer Telemetry for Models Using Thermocouple Sensors

Telemetry technique utilizing thermocouple sensors for base heating determinations on free flight blunt cone in shock tunnels, noting electrical noise reduction
Time-dependent remodeling of transmural architecture underlying abnormal ventricular geometry in chronic volume overload heart failure

To test the hypothesis that the abnormal ventricular geometry in failing hearts may be accounted for by regionally selective remodeling of myocardial laminae or sheets, we investigated remodeling o...
Detection of Cd, Pb, and Cu in Non-Pretreated Natural Waters and Urine with Thiol Functionalized Mesoporous Silica and Nafion Composite Electrodes

Abstract Electrochemical sensors have great potential for environmental monitoring of toxic metal ions in waters due to their portability, field-deployability and excellent detection limits. However, electrochemical sensors employing mercury-free approaches typically suffer from binding competition for metal ions and fouling by organic substances and surfactants in natural waters, making sample pretreatments such as wet ashing necessary. In this work, we have developed mercury-free sensors by coating a composite of thiol self-assembled monolayers on mesoporous supports (SH-SAMMS™) and Nafion on glassy-carbon electrodes. With the combined benefit of SH-SAMMS™ as an outstanding metal preconcentrator and Nafion as an antifouling binder, the sensors could detect 0.5 ppb of Pb and 2.5 ppb of Cd in river water, Hanford groundwater, and seawater with a minimal amount of preconcentration time (few minutes) and without any sample pretreatment. The sensor could also detect 2.5 ppb of Cd, Pb, and Cu simultaneously. The electrodes have long service times and excellent single and inter-electrode reproducibility (5% R.S.D. after 8 consecutive measurements). Unlike SAMMS™-carbon paste electrodes, the SAMMS™-Nafion electrodes were not fouled in samples containing albumin and successfully detected Cd in human urine. Other potentially confounding factors affecting metal detection at SAMMS™-Nafion electrodes were studied, including pH effect, transport resistance of metal ions, and detection interference. With the ability to reliably detect low metal concentration ranges without sample pretreatment and fouling, SAMMS™-Nafion composite sensors have the potential to become the next-generation metal analyzers for environmental and bio-monitoring of toxic metals.
VEGF Stimulates the ERK 1/2 Signaling Pathway and Apoptosis in Cerebral Endothelial Cells After Ischemic Conditions

Background and Purpose— Cerebral endothelial cells that line microvessels play an important role in maintaining blood flow homeostasis within the brain-forming part of the blood–brain barrier. These cells are injured by hypoxia-induced reperfusion, leading to blood–brain barrier breakdown and exacerbation of ischemic injury. We investigated the roles of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the downstream extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) protein after oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) in primary endothelial cells. Methods— Primary mouse endothelial cells were isolated and subjected to OGD. Western analysis of VEGF and ERK 1/2 protein levels was performed. Cells were transfected with VEGF small interference RNA. A terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated uridine 5′-triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and DNA fragmentation assay were used on mouse endothelial cells that overexpress copper/zinc-superoxide dismutase (SOD1). Results— VEGF protein expression was induced a...
Development of a potentially Implantable glucose sensor for diabetic patients based on a Potentiometric type coated wire electrode a review

Summary The characteristics of a long term implantable glucose sensor will be outlined. Previous work using a quaternary ammonium salt with a spairingly soluble metallic salt of glucose in a matrix such as polyvinylchloride will be presented. A search for an insoluble metallic salt of glucose is described. Different approaches to synthesis of several salts are presented. Discussion of the possible mechanism of interaction of different compounds, their signal; output, stability, and life time are presented. The different theories and approaches behind the new glucose compounds are discussed. The liquid membrane approaches combined with ion selective electrode techniques for applications with a non‐ionic species such as glucose are explained.
Small-signal RF yield analysis of MMIC circuits based on physical device parameters

A technique is presented for computing the small-signal RF yield of monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) based on the sensitivity of electrical model parameters to physical device parameters. Because GaAs MMICs are increasingly being used in large-scale production programs, the producibility of a given design must be considered at the beginning of the design process. The technique considered uses commonly measured FET physical parameters in conjunction with electrical parameter sensitivity equations to model both passive and active circuit elements. A linear microwave circuit simulator is then used to compute the RF yield through Monte Carlo analysis. This RF yield analysis method has successfully been applied to several MMIC amplifiers with good results between measured and computed performance. >