cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Generalization of the separable approximation to scattering in the presence of long-range forces

We discuss the difficulties inherent in the application of the separable approximation to scattering problems involving long-range forces. We propose a generalization of the usual separable expansion in which the long-range forces are treated exactly and only the short-range exchange forces are projected onto a set of ${L}^{2}$ functions. Application is made to the problems of $s$-wave electron-hydrogen- and electron-helium-atom scattering in the static-exchange approximation and a model problem involving a long-range ($\frac{1}{{r}^{3}}$) potential. In all cases, the separable approximation using distorted waves is found to converge much more rapidly than the standard separable expansion.
Nucleosides. 127. Synthesis of Pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine Nucleosides from 5-Cyanouridine

Abstract 7-Amino-6-substituted-1-(β-D-ribofuranosyl)pyrido [2,3–d]pyrimidine-2,4 (1H, 3H)-diones were prepared in good yields from 5-cyanouridine by application of a novel ring transformation reaction recently developed in our laboratory. Treatment of 3-benzyloxymethyl-2', 3'-O-isopropylidene-5'-O-trityl-5-cyanouridine with malononitrile, cyanoacetamide or ethyl cyanoacetate in base gave directly the pyridopyrimidine nucleosides bearing a CN, CONH2 and CO2 Et at C-6, respectively. The benzyloxymethyl and trityl protecting groups were removed by hydrogenolysis and the isopropylidene group by acid hydrolysis.
Chronic recurrent parotitis: A closer look at its origin, diagnosis, and management

Chronic recurrent parotitis (CRP) is a bothersome clinical condition that afflicts patients of a wide age range and whose etiology remains a mystery and its management controversial and confusing. The myriad of proposed methods of treatment include antibiotic therapy, 1 intraductal methyl violet (1%) injection, 2 intraductal tetracycline therapy, 3 parasympathectomy, 4 kallikrein inhibitor (aprotonin) therapy, 5 ductal ligation to produce gland atrophy, 6 and superficial 7 or total 8 parotidectomy. It is my purpose to provide some clarification as to its origin and development, as well as a rational conservative approach to its treatment. Clinically CRP is manifested by the sudden onset of a complete parotid inflammatory swelling, most often unilateral but at times bilateral with varying degrees of discomfort. The occurrence of swelling has no relation to meals or seasons, suggesting no obstructive or allergic relationship. The overlying skin surface may appear normal or slightly inflamed (reddish) with an associated low-grade fever. The swelling may persist for 24 to 48 hours, 1 to 2 weeks, and, in some patients, months. These are followed by periods of quiescence ranging from weeks to years. There is a marked reduction of salivary flow, and the secretion is viscous and milky in appearance with clumps of material interspersed. Pus is rarely observed, but if it occurs, it is mild to moderate and never for more than a day when treatment with steroids is initiated. The pus-like material does not indicate an acute infection but rather a marked leukocyte response to the acute inflammation. In Table 1, myeloperoxidase, a marker for polymorphonuclear leukocyte activity, was positive on day 1 and disappeared shortly thereafter. Despite the elevation, the appearance of the parotid specimen did not show suppuration. If pus is present in significant amounts for several days, the clinician should consider the possibility of an acute suppurative parotitis and treat accordingly. With an apparent return to normal, the saliva becomes clear and free flowing but is generally less in quantity compared with the normal side. After multiple prolonged episodes, there appears to be a permanent destructive effect on the involved gland as evidenced by reduced function (flow rate), destructive changes in the ducts as seen with sialography, and a tendency for future episodes to be more prolonged and frequent. Seifert, 9 in his review of 5,000 cases of chronic
Uptake of the 35 kDa major surfactant apoprotein (SP-A) by neonatal rabbit lung tissue

Secreted surfactant is made up of both phospholipid and protein components. Therefore, we investigated the possibility that surfactant apoproteins might be taken up by the alveolar type II cell in a manner similar to the uptake of surfactant phosphatidylcholines. Day 2 neonatal rabbits were infused via the trachea with a solution of carrier surfactant and 125I-labelled surfactant apoprotein (SP-A, Mr approx. 35,000). Most of the 125I-SP-A remained within the alveolus; however, a fraction of the 125I-SP-A was taken up by the lung tissue from the alveolus in a time-dependent manner. The small amount of radiolabeled material detected in blood, liver or kidney tissues of 125I-SP-A-infused animals was not trichloroacetic acid (TCA) precipitable, i.e., probably represented degradation products. In contrast, the proportion of TCA-precipitable 125I-SP-A in lung tissue or lavage samples did not change as function of time after tracheal administration. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of the 125I-SP-A present in the lavage samples or associated with lung tissue was used to show that a small proportion of the 125I-SP-A was partially degraded in the lung tissue and alveolus. These data are suggestive that the SP-A is taken up by lung tissue, perhaps in a manner similar to the uptake of surfactant phospholipid by the alveolar type II cell.
Electrically Addressable Biomolecular Functionalization of Carbon Nanotube and Carbon Nanofiber Electrodes

We demonstrate the electrically addressable biomolecular functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotube electrodes and vertically aligned carbon nanofiber electrodes. The method uses an electrochemical reaction in which nitro groups on specific nanostructures are reduced to amino groups and then used to covalently link DNA to only these nanostructures. We demonstrate fabrication of a four-element array of distinct DNA oligonucleotides on carbon nanotube electrodes and the addressable functionalization of submicron bundles of <100 nm diameter vertically aligned carbon nanofibers. DNA hybridization shows that the DNA-modified nanoscale structures have excellent biological selectivity.
Generation of high intensity RF pulses in the ionosphere by means of in situ compression

We demonstrate, using a simple model, that high intensity pulses can be generated from a frequency-chirped modifier of much lower intensity by making use of the dispersive properties of the ionosphere. We show that a frequency-chirped pulse can be constructed so that its various components overtake each other at a prescribed height, resulting in large (up to one hundred times) transient intensity enhancements as compared to those achievable from a steady modifier operating at the same power. We examine briefly one possible application: the enhancement of plasma wave amplitudes which occurs as a result of the interaction of such a compressed pulse with pre-generated turbulence.
Conventional protein kinase C isoforms mediate neuroprotection induced by phorbol ester and estrogen.

Rapid signal transduction pathways play a prominent role in mediating neuroprotective actions of estrogen in the CNS. We have previously shown that estrogen-induced neuroprotection of primary cerebrocortical neurons from β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) toxicity depends on activation of protein kinase C (PKC). PKC activation with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) also provides neuroprotection in this paradigm. Because the PKC family includes several isoforms that have opposing roles in regulating cell survival, we sought to identify which PKC isoforms contribute to neuroprotection induced by PMA and estrogen. We detected protein expression of multiple PKC isoforms in primary neuron cultures, including conventional (α, βI, βII), novel (δ, e, θ) and atypical (ζ, ι/λ) PKC. Using a panel of isoform-specific peptide inhibitors and activators, we find that novel and atypical PKC isoforms do not participate in the mechanism of either PMA or estrogen neuroprotection. In contrast, a selective peptide activator of conventional PKC isoforms provides dose-dependent neuroprotection against Aβ toxicity. In addition, peptide inhibitors of conventional, βI, or βII PKC isoforms significantly reduce protection afforded by PMA or 17β-estradiol. Taken together, these data provide evidence that conventional PKC isoforms mediate phorbol ester and estrogen neuroprotection of cultured neurons challenged by Aβ toxicity.
Calpeptin attenuated apoptosis and intracellular inflammatory changes in muscle cells

In idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), extracellular inflammatory stimulation is considered to induce secondary intracellular inflammatory changes including expression of major histocompatibility complex class-I (MHC-I) and to produce a self-sustaining loop of inflammation. We hypothesize that activation of calpain, a Ca2+-sensitive protease, bridges between these extracellular inflammatory stress and intracellular secondary inflammatory changes in muscle cells. In this study, we demonstrated that treatment of rat L6 myoblast cells with interferon-γ (IFN-γ) caused expression of MHC-I and inflammation-related transcription factors (phosphorylated-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and nuclear factor-κB). We also demonstrated that treatment with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced apoptotic changes and activation of calpain and cyclooxygenase-2. Furthermore, we found that posttreatment with calpeptin attenuated the intracellular changes induced by IFN-γ or TNF-α. Our results indicate that calpain inhibition attenuates apoptosis and secondary inflammatory changes induced by extracellular inflammatory stimulation in the muscle cells. These results suggest calpain as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of IIMs. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc
Optical Properties Of Ice And Snow In The Polar Oceans. II: Theoretical Calculations

Radiative transfer models of sea ice applied to date range from a simple Bouguer-Lambert representation for net downwelling irradiance through 16 stream models which takes into account detailed variations in ice microstructure. Both sea ice and snow are strongly multiple scattering media with single scattering albedos well above 0.9 through the visible and into the near infrared. Parameter studies indicate that the optical properties of sea ice are controlled by the density of brine and vapor inclusions which in general undergo substantial seasonal changes. Melting and brine drainage are the principal causes of these variations. For ice below -5°C, temperature effects are relatively weak unless the Tice drops below the eutectic point. The optical properties of snow depend primarily on grain size, the bulk density, and the presence of impurities such as carbon soot. The theoretical models appear to be able to reproduce observations quite well and have revealed that soot or dust contamination of snow appears to be prevalent even in the Arctic.
Effects of Crown Fuel Bulk Density Distribution and Thermophoresis of Soot Particles on Wildland Fires

The roles of two physical effects in wildfire are explored through simulations in this study. They are the spatial variation of the bulk density of crown fuel and the thermophoresis forces acting on the produced soot particles. The spatial variation of crown fuel bulk density is modeled as a function of shrub height. This function is available from experimental measurements carried out on Chamise, as crown fuel, in a previous study. In the current study, it is shown that flame spread rate and crown fire initiation are two global parameters considerably affected when the spatial variation of the bulk density is taken into account. Also, it is indicated that thermophoresis forces on soot particles have a significant impact on the evolution of solid- and gas-phase temperature in the upper region of crown fuel; however, other fire propagation characteristics are not considerably affected by these forces. In the simulations, turbulence is modeled with the large eddy simulation and radiation is modeled with the discrete ordinate method. Mass, momentum, and energy transfer between gas and solid-fuel phases are modeled through coupling terms.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
I think therefore i om: cognitive distortions and coping style as mediators for the effects of mindfulness meditation on anxiety, positive and negative affect, and hope

This study examined cognitive distortions and coping styles as potential mediators for the effects of mindfulness meditation on anxiety, negative affect, positive affect, and hope in college students. Our pre- and postintervention design had four conditions: control, brief meditation focused on attention, brief meditation focused on loving kindness, and longer meditation combining both attentional and loving kindness aspects of mindfulness. Each group met weekly over the course of a semester. Longer combined meditation significantly reduced anxiety and negative affect and increased hope. Changes in cognitive distortions mediated intervention effects for anxiety, negative affect, and hope. Further research is needed to determine differential effects of types of meditation.
SU-E-T-520: Four-Dimensional Dose Calculation Algorithm Considering Variations in Dose Distribution Induced by Sinusoidal One-Dimensional Motion Patterns

Purpose: To investigate quantitatively the variations in dose-distributions induced by motion by measurements and modeling. A four-dimensional (4D) motion model of dose distributions that accounts for different motion parameters was developed. Methods: Variations in dose distributions induced by sinusoidal phantom motion were measured using a multiple-diode-array-detector (MapCheck2). MapCheck2 was mounted on a mobile platform that moves with adjustable calibrated motion patterns in the superior-inferior direction. Various plans including open and intensity-modulated fields were used to irradiate MapCheck2. A motion model was developed to predict spatial and temporal variations in the dose-distributions and dependence on the motion parameters using pencil-beam spread-out superposition function. This model used the superposition of pencil-beams weighted with a probability function extracted from the motion trajectory. The model was verified with measured dose-distributions obtained from MapCheck2. Results: Dose-distribution varied considerably with motion where in the regions between isocenter and 50% isodose-line, dose decreased with increase of the motion amplitude. Dose levels increased with increase in the motion amplitude in the region beyond 50% isodose-line. When the range of motion (ROM=twice amplitude) was smaller than the field length both central axis dose and the 50% isodose-line did not change with variation of motion amplitude and remained equal to the dose of stationary phantom. As ROM became larger than the field length, the dose level decreased at central axis dose and 50% isodose-line. Motion frequency and phase did not affect the dose distributions which were delivered over an extended time longer than few motion cycles, however, they played an important role for doses delivered with high-dose-rates within one motion cycle . Conclusion: A 4D-dose motion model was developed to predict and correct variations in dose distributions induced by one-dimensional sinusoidal motion. This model was verified with measured dose-distributions and can be expanded to consider complicated patient motion patterns.
Acousto-Optic Output Coupler For Free Electron Lasers

Acousto -optic output coupler for free electron lasers*Antonello Cutolo ** and John M. MadeyHigh Energy Physics Laboratory, Stanford UniversityStanford, California 94305AbstractMetal mirrors will probably be required to realize the full broad -band tuning capabilityof the FEL oscillator. In this paper we analyze the operation of an acousto -optic outputcoupler for such cavities.
Mean life of the 2p21D level in N IV

Abstract The mean life of the 2p 2 1 D level in C III is measured to be 7.4 ± 0.6 × 10 -9 sec. This number differs significantly from the theoretical value by a factor of 2.7.
SU‐FF‐T‐431: Time Delay Study of a CT Simulator in Respiratory Gated CT Scanning

Purpose: To evaluate the time delay in respiratory gated CT scanning and its effect to motion synchronized radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: In this study, we presented a technique to measure the time delay of AcQSim CT simulator (Philips Medical Systems) using Varian's Real‐Time Positioning Management (RPM) system (Varian Medical Systems). A respiratory gating platform (REF 91150, Standard Imaging, Inc.) was first set at the position of amplitude maximum (Phase 0). Then a ball of 1.3 cm diameter was put on the platform and set at the CT laser. A single axial‐scan was acquired across the center of the ball without motion. Then the motion was turned on and single axial‐scans gated at different phases were acquired with a very narrow gating window. The time between the phase giving a good estimate of the ball and Phase 0 is the overall delay time. The delays were also verified using metal balls of 1.5 mm diameter initially set at the amplitude minimum (Phase 180). Results: We found that for AcQSim CT, the overall delay for a single axial‐scan (with 1s‐scan time) is 1.75s. For multiple axial‐scans, the overall delay is 1.75s for the first scan and 0.75s for the subsequent ones. This demonstrated that the CT mechanical startup delay is 1s. After the first axial‐scan, the overall delay per scan is less because CT gantry continuously spins and no mechanical delay exists. We call the overall delay without the mechanical part the scanning delay, which basically equals to half the scan time (0.5s for 1s‐scan time) plus the gating pulse triggering delay (250 ms). Conclusion: It is the scanning delay rather than the triggering delay that should be compensated when doing motion synchronized radiotherapy. The current interface between the RPM system and the AcQSim CT does not compensate for this delay.
P-317 Changes in t-wave morphology in patients with dilated cardiomyopathie: Evidence for abnormalities in patients with documented ventricular tachycardia

Background: The morphology of the T-wave reflects abnormalit ies of the ventricular repolatiation process but only very few studies have shown the link between these abnormalit ies and arhythmic events. In this study, we investigated the changes in T-wave morphology in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and compared the morphologies between patients with or without prior documented ventricular tachycardia. Methods: An index of repolarization asymmetry (IRAc) based on the area under the T wave was computed from the T apex to quantify the morphology of the T wave, 24.hour Halter recordings with three orthogonal leads. T wave morphology was assessed in 43 patients including 10 patients with prior documented VT and 33 patients free of documented ventricular arrhythmias. W e used OUT custom-made software for repolarization analysis and analyzed the heart rate, QT apex, QT offset and two area-based parameters (QTA25% and QTa50%). Results: Patients with history of VT had significantly higher value of IRAc than patients without VT (96&28 vs. 77&17 ms, respectively; p=O.O26). None of the other repolarization parameters showed significant differences between groups. The values for the other repolarization parameters were the following: QTc apex was 332&38 for VT(-), 331&40 for VT(+);QTc25% was 255&3 for VT(-) and 235&30 for VT(+); QTc was 436&40 for VT(-) and 441&28 for VT(+). The RR intervals were 879&185 and 958&187 for VT(-) and VT (+), respectively. Conclusion: Dilated cardiomyopathy patients with history of ventricular tachycardia had more asymmetric T wave than those without arhythmic events in the past. T wave morphology analysis could lead to identifying high-risk patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.
Isolation and growth of human primary prostate epithelial cultures

Human primary prostate epithelial cultures derived from radical prostatectomy specimens were isolated and propagated using serum-free medium and culture technique developed in this laboratory. In this report, growth and characterization data from the first 95 radical prostatectomies is presented. Detailed methodology for the isolation and growth of prostate epithelial cultures is described.
Model for Gravitational Radiation from the Galactic Center: Infall of a Particle into a Black Hole

We present here the results of the study of the gravitational radiation generated by the infall (from rest at radius r0) of a point particle of mass m0 into a Schwarzschild black hole of mass M. We use Laplace's transform methods and find that the spectra of radiation for ~5M<r0<∞ presents a series of evenly spaced bumps. The total radiated energy is not monotonically decreasing with r0, but presents a joroba (hunch-back) at around r0≈4.5M. We finally discuss the detectability of the gravitational radiation coming from the black hole in the center of our galaxy.
A rapid micro diazo technique for measuring total bilirubin.

Abstract A diazo method for the determination of total serum bilirubin is described. This procedure used standardized techniques and pre-packaged reagents. The new method was compared with the routine method used in the clinical laboratory. The results were quite comparable and there were several obvious advantages to the new method.
Identification of Rodent Carcinogens and Noncarcinogens Using Genetic Toxicity Tests: Premises, Promises, and Performance

Abstract The basic premises that guide genetic toxicity testing for identifying carcinogens and to support administrative and regulatory decisions are: the Salmonella mutagenicity test is a necessary component of testing schemes; a chromosome aberration test is needed in addition to a gene mutation test; a mammalian cell mutagenicity test is needed in addition to the Salmonella test; in vivo tests are needed to confirm the results of in vitro tests; and test batteries are more predictive than the individual tests of the battery. Results from the Salmonella mutagenicity, in vitro chromosome aberration, mutations in mouse lymphoma cells, rodent bone marrow micronucleus, and rodent carcinogenicity tests, performed by the U.S. National Toxicology Program, were used to evaluate these premises. A positive Salmonella test was most predictive of carcinogenicity. However, the data do not support using the other tests in addition to Salmonella for predicting carcinogenicity. The genetic toxicity tests did not complement each other, and batteries or combinations of the tests were no more predictive of carcinogenicity than Salmonella alone. If a chemical is mutagenic in Salmonella it should be considered a potential rodent carcinogen, unless ancillary information suggests otherwise. Positive responses in the other in vitro or in vivo tests do not increase the probability that the chemical is a carcinogen, and negative responses in the other tests do not diminish the implications of the positive Salmonella response.
Acute Rupture of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Patellar Tendon in a Collegiate Athlete

In rare incidences of combined ruptures of the ACL and patellar tendon, either the patellar tendon ruptures or the associated ACL tear is often initially missed. Even when recognized, there is no established treatment regimen. We report a case of an intercollegiate football player with a combined rupture of the ACL and patellar tendon that was successfully treated by primary augmented repair of the patellar tendon along with ACL reconstruction. Similar to other reported cases, the mechanism of injury involved forceful eccentric contraction of the quadriceps against a fixed foot. Superior displacement of the patella with a palpable defect of the patellar tendon, a positive Lachman test, and an inability to perform terminal knee extension noted during the on-field examination indicated the combined injury. Magnetic resonance and radiographic imaging confirmed conclusions from the on-field examination. The patient also underwent safe early mobilization and weight bearing following surgical repair.
Analysis of Pit Stability in Type 316L Stainless Steel Exposed to H2S-Saturated Dilute Chloride Solutions Above the Critical Pitting Temperature

Abstract This study examines the effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on the transition from metastable to stable propagating pits using Type 316L (UNS S31603) steel in brines with Cl− concentrations of 10−3 M to 2 × 10−2 M at 75°C and 150°C. The potentiostatic tests were performed at discrete intervals of 50 mV from the recorded open-circuit potential (OCP) to 300 mV above the OCP. The results based on analysis of the chrono-amperometric transients suggests that the transition to stable pit growth is hindered by H2S saturation at both temperatures. The comparison of the experimental results with similar tests in an acidified control brine (without H2S saturation) indicates that the effect of H2S in the promotion of pit metastability is associated with the diffusion of H2S to the bottom of the cavity. This increases the net anodic current by irreversibly forming metallic sulfides, which, in turn, affect the pit's anolyte by reducing the metal salt concentration. The consequence of this effect is that small pi...
The totem redundant ring protocol

Group communication protocols greatly simplify the design of fault-tolerant distributed systems. Most of those protocols focus on node redundancy rather than on network redundancy. The totem redundant ring protocol allows the use of multiple redundant local-area networks. The partial or total failure of a network remains transparent to the application processes. The distributed system remains operational while an administrator reacts to an alarm raised by the totem redundant ring protocol. The user can choose between active, passive and active-passive replication of the network.
Use of BCG Vaccine in Shelters for the Homeless: A Decision Analysis

As a result of many interacting variables, including crowded shelters and limited access to health care, homeless persons are at high risk for tuberculosis. Using traditional approaches, control of tuberculosis in this population has been difficult. Decision analysis was used to investigate the cost-effectiveness of BCG (bacillus Calmette-Guerin) vaccination in persons attending homeless shelters. This vaccination was cost-effective over a wide range of assumptions. Using conservative assumptions, a vaccine that was at least 40 percent effective would result in a net cost savings. If the efficacy of the vaccine were 50 percent, $4,000 would be saved, 12 life-years gained, and 23 cases of active tuberculosis prevented for every 1,000 persons vaccinated. Further study of the BCG vaccine in homeless persons and other populations at risk is warranted.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Host Response to Giardia duodenalis Infection Reveals Redundant Mechanisms for Parasite Control

ABSTRACT The immune system has numerous mechanisms that it can use to combat pathogens and eliminate infections. Nevertheless, studies of immune responses often focus on single pathways required for protective responses. We applied microarray analysis of RNA in order to investigate the types of immune responses produced against infection with the intestinal pathogen Giardia duodenalis. Infection with G. duodenalis is one of the most common causes of diarrheal disease in the world. While several potential antiparasitic effector mechanisms, including complement lysis, nitric oxide (NO), and α-defensin peptides, have been shown to inhibit parasite growth or kill Giardia in vitro , studies in vivo have thus far shown clear roles only for antibody and mast cell responses in parasite control. A total of 96 transcripts were identified as being upregulated or repressed more than 2-fold in the small intestine 10 days following infection. Microarray data were validated using quantitative PCR. The most abundant category of transcripts was antibody genes, while the most highly induced transcripts were all mast cell proteases. Among the other induced transcripts was matrix metalloprotease 7 (Mmp7), the protease responsible for production of mature α-defensins in mice. While infections in Mmp7-deficient mice showed only a small increase in parasite numbers, combined genetic deletion of Mmp7 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS, Nos2) or pharmacological blockade of iNOS in Mmp7-deficient mice resulted in significant increases in parasite loads following infection. Thus, α-defensins and NO are redundant mechanisms for control of Giardia infections in vivo . IMPORTANCE The immune system has multiple weapons which it uses to help control infections. Many infections result in activation of several of these response mechanisms, but it is not always clear which responses actually contribute to control of the pathogen and which are bystander effects. This study used the intestinal parasite Giardia duodenalis to examine the redundancy in immune responses during infections in mice. Our results showed that at least four distinct mechanisms are activated following infections. Furthermore, by blocking two pathways at the same time, we showed that both mechanisms contribute to control of the infection, whereas blocking single responses showed no or minimal effect in these cases.
Observation unit impact on ED admission for asthma

Abstract The hypothesis that the use of an observation unit (OU) in the emergency department (ED) results in monetary savings by lowering the hospital admission rate for asthma was studied in a retrospective comparative cohort at an urban university county hospital. All acute asthmatic patients seen in the ED during a 22-month period were included. Preobservation patients were seen before the OU opened (n = 834); postobservation patients were treated afterward (n = 390). Postobservation patients in the experomental group meeting standard criteria were admitted to the OU. Fisher's exact test and the binomial distribution were used to analyze proportions of patients admitted. Median charges were compared with the Mann-Whitney test. The difference between groups in hospital admission rate was only 2.7% and was not significant ( P = .25). However, 5.3% less patients were admitted directly to the hospital ( P = .01), and 6.7% less patients were discharged directly from the ED ( P = .005). The OU produced no demonstrable cost savings. The use of an OU for asthmatic patients results in lower initial discharge rates from the ED and does not reduce eventual hospital admission appreciably.
Voriconazole Susceptibilities of Dermatophyte Isolates Obtained from a Worldwide Tinea Capitis Clinical Trial

In this study, the voriconazole susceptibilities of dermatophyte isolates obtained from a worldwide tinea capitis trial were compared to their susceptibilities to fluconazole and griseofulvin. The MIC ranges of voriconazole, fluconazole, and griseofulvin, were 0.002 to 0.06 μg/ml, 0.25 to 32 μg/ml, and 0.125 to 2.0 μg/ml, respectively.
Fine-needle aspiration diagnosis of the follicular variant of papillary carcinoma.

BACKGROUND The follicular variant of papillary carcinoma (FVPC) presents significant diagnostic difficulty using fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Diagnoses by FNA vary considerably and usually are categorized as follicular proliferations. METHODS Conventional Papanicolaou, Diff-Quik, and hematoxylin and eosin stained FNAs from 16 cases of histologically confirmed FVPC were examined retrospectively. Each case was evaluated with respect to easily recognizable architectural and cytologic features. These were defined, ranked, and recorded for side-by-side comparison and identification of statistical significance. Similar features in six follicular carcinomas, seven follicular adenomas, and six adenomatous multinodular goiters were evaluated and compared as well. RESULTS Eight of 16 FVPC cases (including 5 macrofollicular variants) previously were diagnosed on FNA as a follicular neoplasm or follicular lesion, 6 were diagnosed as a papillary carcinoma or FVPC, and the remaining 2 were diagnosed as atypical. The cellularity and amount of colloid varied considerably between cases. Monolayered, twisted epithelial sheets and microfollicles or macrofollicles were the predominant microarchitecture. Powdery chromatin and easily identifiable nuclear grooves were present in 15 cases (94%), and intranuclear cytoplasmic (INC) inclusions were present in 11 cases (69%). These three features proved to be statistically significant in distinguishing FVPC from the other follicular lesions. No case exhibited true papillary clusters or psammoma bodies. Cases of follicular adenoma, follicular carcinoma, and adenomatous goiter shared many of these features, but notably lacked INC inclusions and abundant nuclear grooves. CONCLUSIONS Nuclear features such as abundant grooves, powdery chromatin, and INC inclusions were statistically significant and present in combination in the majority of cases of FVPC compared with the other follicular proliferations examined. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 1998;84:349-354. © 1998 American Cancer Society.
Role of α-Subunit VISIT-DG Sequence Residues Ser-347 and Gly-351 in the Catalytic Sites of Escherichia coli ATP Synthase

This paper describes the role of α-subunit VISIT-DG sequence residues αSer-347 and αGly-351 in catalytic sites of Escherichia coli F1Fo ATP synthase. X-ray structures show the very highly conserved α-subunit VISIT-DG sequence in close proximity to the conserved phosphate-binding residues αArg-376, βArg-182, βLys-155, and βArg-246 in the phosphate-binding subdomain. Mutations αS347Q and αG351Q caused loss of oxidative phosphorylation and reduced ATPase activity of F1Fo in membranes by 100- and 150-fold, respectively, whereas αS347A mutation showed only a 13-fold loss of activity and also retained some oxidative phosphorylation activity. The ATPase of αS347Q mutant was not inhibited, and the αS347A mutant was slightly inhibited by MgADP-azide, MgADP-fluoroaluminate, or MgADP-fluoroscandium, in contrast to wild type and αG351Q mutant. Whereas 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1, 3-diazole (NBD-Cl) inhibited wild type and αG351Q mutant ATPase essentially completely, ATPase in αS347A or αS347Q mutant was inhibited maximally by ∼80–90%, although reaction still occurred at residue βTyr-297, proximal to the α-subunit VISIT-DG sequence, near the phosphate-binding pocket. Inhibition characteristics supported the conclusion that NBD-Cl reacts inβE (empty) catalytic sites, as shown previously by x-ray structure analysis. Phosphate protected against NBD-Cl inhibition in wild type and αG351Q mutant but not in αS347Q or αS347A mutant. The results demonstrate that αSer-347 is an additional residue involved in phosphate-binding and transition state stabilization in ATP synthase catalytic sites. In contrast, αGly-351, although strongly conserved and clearly important for function, appears not to play a direct role.
DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS OF MANAYUNKIA SPECIOSA AND INFECTION PREVALENCE WITH THE PARASITE CERATOMYXA SHASTA IN THE KLAMATH RIVER, OREGON–CALIFORNIA

A survey for Manayunkia speciosa, the freshwater polychaete host for the myxozoan parasite Ceratomyxa shasta, was conducted from 2003 to 2005 as part of an integrated study of the epizootiology of ceratomyxosis in Klamath River salmonids. Substrata samples (n = 257) were collected in a variety of habitats from Klamath Lake to the mouth of the Klamath River to document occurrence and relative abundance of the polychaete by habitat type and to estimate the prevalence of C. shasta within selected polychaete populations. Populations of M. specios a were identified throughout the Klamath River within pools (51.6%), eddy-pools (47.0%), and runs (40.0%). Large populations of M. speciosa were consistently found at the inflow to the main-stem reservoirs where densities were correlated with distance from the inflow into the reservoir. Using polymerase chain reaction assay and composite samples, 12 of 71 populations identified were tested for C. shasta, revealing a mean infection prevalence of 0.27%. An area of elev...
Investigation on the Use of Various Decoupling Approaches

Substructuring methods allow for the development of system models from component information. Often times however, system response needs to be improved through the modification of one or more component representations. Decoupling the component is necessary in order to accomplish any additional design improvements. Decoupling can be performed different ways. Several approaches are considered for the evaluation of component decoupling from the system. Impedance and Mobility techniques are compared to an alternate force decoupling approach. Several models are studied to better understand the strengths and weaknesses of each of the techniques often employed. Several cases are studied and shown in the paper.
Learning non-myopically from human-generated reward

Recent research has demonstrated that human-generated reward signals can be effectively used to train agents to perform a range of reinforcement learning tasks. Such tasks are either episodic - i.e., conducted in unconnected episodes of activity that often end in either goal or failure states - or continuing - i.e., indefinitely ongoing. Another point of difference is whether the learning agent highly discounts the value of future reward - a myopic agent - or conversely values future reward appreciably. In recent work, we found that previous approaches to learning from human reward all used myopic valuation [7]. This study additionally provided evidence for the desirability of myopic valuation in task domains that are both goal-based and episodic.In this paper, we conduct three user studies that examine critical assumptions of our previous research: task episodicity, optimal behavior with respect to a Markov Decision Process, and lack of a failure state in the goal-based task. In the first experiment, we show that converting a simple episodic task to non-episodic (i.e., continuing) task resolves some theoretical issues present in episodic tasks with generally positive reward and - relatedly - enables highly successful learning with non-myopic valuation in multiple user studies. The primary learning algorithm in this paper, which we call "VI-TAMER", is it the first algorithm to successfully learn non-myopically from human-generated reward; we also empirically show that such non-myopic valuation facilitates higher-level understanding of the task. Anticipating the complexity of real-world problems, we perform two subsequent user studies - one with a failure state added - that compare (1) learning when states are updated asynchronously with local bias - i.e., states quickly reachable from the agent's current state are updated more often than other states - to (2) learning with the fully synchronous sweeps across each state in the VI-TAMER algorithm. With these locally biased updates, we find that the general positivity of human reward creates problems even for continuing tasks, revealing a distinct research challenge for future work.
A study of parenteral iron regimens in hemodialysis patients

The administration of parenteral iron dextran to hemodialysis patients is typically intermittent. We sought to determine the most appropriate intervals for sampling iron parameters during intermittent need-based and continuous maintenance regimens and to quantify differences in efficacy between such regimens during long-term therapy. After a single course of 10 consecutive 100-mg iron doses administered to 14 patients on 16 occasions, transferrin saturation (TSAT) and ferritin were unreliable indices of iron status for the next 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. TSAT and ferritin levels at 1 week were virtually identical to those at 2 weeks after the administration of a single 50-mg or 100-mg iron dextran dose to 16 other patients. Twelve patients on maintenance iron therapy (25 to 100 mg/wk; TSAT, 30% to 50%) had a statistically significant decrease in the amount of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) needed to maintain hemoglobin (Hb) levels between 10 and 11 g/dL compared with 12 patients receiving intermittent need-based dosing, an effect that persisted from week 16 to week 72 of the study. Maintenance iron was feasible even in a third group of eight patients targeted to sustain an Hb level of 14 g/dL. In both iron maintenance groups, iron indices could be measured at weekly intervals, and ferritin levels did not progressively increase over time. Continuous maintenance iron dextran used to maintain TSATs of 30% to 50% significantly reduced rHuEPO requirements and resulted in no adverse side effects in chronic hemodialysis patients. After weekly maintenance 25- to 100-mg iron dextran doses, iron indices can be measured after 1 week; a delay of 2 weeks is not necessary.
Support new journals

A resounding cheer for your article, ‘Birth of a Journal,’ in EOS for July 1977! The principle you espouse deserves far wider circulation and attention (whether with or without its specific reference to AGU) than even EOS can bring. Let me urge your consideration for this.
Advances in anisotropic artificial impedance surfaces

The interaction between an object and electromagnetic waves can be described in terms of its surface impedance. By introducing large anisotropy into artificial impedance surfaces, it is possible to achieve a high degree of control over this interaction that is not possible with isotropic surfaces. These surfaces can be used to create nonscattering surface waveguides, beam shifting structures, and to control scattering from edges and other features. With new patterning techniques we can obtain arbitrary and smoothly varying impedance functions for even greater control.
Brandenburg for Groups

Contemporary emerging scholarship on the First Amendment right of assembly is based primarily on either normative arguments arising from post-World War Two cases or constitutional originalism that looks to the Framers’ intent. This scholarship continues to treat the advent of substantive First Amendment rights in the World War One era as isolated to the speech right. That is an incomplete picture because the formative First Amendment cases were assembly cases just as much as they were speech cases. This Article fills that historical gap and, from it, generates a doctrinal argument in favor of the assembly right.Historically, it shows that the seminal WWI cases were part of a milieu that entailed the socio-political control primarily of groups, not individuals’ speech. The mechanism was membership crime — criminal conspiracy in federal and state courts, and criminal syndicalism at the state level. This Article recovers assembly as a core First Amendment right, not secondary to speech. Doctrinally, the Article shows that at the advent of the substantive First Amendment it was assembly, rather than speech, that was often the primary right at issue. Indeed, even Brandenburg v. Ohio was an assembly case before it was a speech case. The Article therefore presents what it calls the “Brandenburg for groups” test, which would protect groups — even some criminal conspiracies — if they pose no imminent likelihood of substantive crime. This test responds to emerging scholarship on the assembly right, most notably the debate between John D. Inazu and Ashutosh Bhagwat on the utility of Brandenburg v. Ohio to protect that right. It traces a constitutionally and normatively appropriate line between protected and unprotected assembly that is currently lacking but is necessary to protect the democratic function of groups while continuing to ensure public safety.
Introduction to part 1

Publisher Summary This chapter presents an introduction to the handbook on development economics, Part 1. Development, as contrasted with mere growth of the economy, is, according to Schumpeter, “a distinct phenomenon, entirely foreign to what may be observed in the circular flow or in the tendency toward equilibrium. In the dominant neoclassical paradigm of the postwar era, Adam Smith's parable of the invisible hand was rigorously restated in terms of the two fundamental theorems of welfare economics. First, under a set of mild restrictions on production technology and individual preferences, the equilibrium of a laissez-faire market economy is a Pareto optimum. Second, given a set of rather restrictive assumptions, including the absence of technological externalities and increasing returns to scale in production of goods, and convexity of consumer preferences, any Pareto optimum is also a competitive equilibrium provided income (or initial endowments) of individuals can be redistributed through lump-sum transfers or other non-distortionary means. In contrast to the neoclassical approach to development, that is a historic and based on virtual time, there is the historical, real-time Marxian approach that is closer to the spirit of Schumpeter's analysis. In this approach, the forces of production, represented by available technology at any point in historical time, and the existing relations of production, represented by the institutions governing ownership and access to the means of production determine “equilibrium.”
What is the Molecular Mechanism of UV Mutagenesis in Escherichia coli

Previous genetic studies have indicated that most UV mutagenesis in Escherichia coli requires the participation of the umuD and umuC gene products. However the mechanism of UV mutagenesis is not yet understood and the roles of the UmuD and UmuC proteins have not been elucidated. The umuDC operon is induced by UV irradiation and regulated as part of the SOS response. Genetic evidence now indicates that RecA-mediated cleavage activates UmuD for its role in mutagenesis. The COOH-terminal fragment of UmuD is both necessary and sufficient for this role. The RecA protein appears to have third role in UV mutagenesis besides mediating the cleavage of LexA and UmuD at the time of SOS induction. In addition, we have obtained evidence which indicates that the GroEL and GroES proteins also play a role in UV mutagenesis. Similarities of the amino acid sequence of UmuD to the sequence of gene 45 protein of bacteriophage T4 and of the sequence of UmuC to those of the gene 44 and gene 62 proteins suggest possible roles for UmuD and UmuC in mutagenesis that are supported by preliminary evidence.
Research of Nonprofit Management Education in the United States: A Literature Review

Nonprofit management education (NME) has been greatly developed in the last three decades. This paper reviews the researches about NME in the United States from two perspectives: disciplinary perspective and program perspective. Issues studied in the disciplinary level mainly concern the autonomy and distinctiveness of NME, and direct to an ultimate question: Should NME be developed into a new discipline? Studies of NME in program level mainly focus on these issues: 1) Development of NME programs in different degree and non-credit levels. 2) What is the focus of NME programs, generic or specialized? 3) How to construct the curricula? 4) What is and how to measure the impact and effectiveness of NME program? The paper also suggests that the institutionalization of NME is a critical research question for future study.
“The Healthy Worker Effect” and the Design of Occupational Mortality Studies

“The healthy worker effect” (HWE has become a catch phrase in occupational epidemiology. It refers to a tendency for occupationally defined cohorts to show lower mortality rates than would be expected on the basis of the population at large (1).
Structural and Dynamic Features of Candida rugosa Lipase 1 in Water, Octane, Toluene, and Ionic Liquids BMIM-PF6 and BMIM-NO3

Ionic liquids (ILs) and organic chemicals can be used as solvents in biochemical reactions to influence the structural and dynamic features of the enzyme, sometimes detrimentally. In this work we r...