cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimal residual disease assessed by multi-parameter flow cytometry is highly prognostic in adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

The prognostic value of minimal residual disease (MRD) assessed by multi-parameter flow cytometry (MFC) was investigated among 340 adult patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) treated between 2004 and 2014 using regimens including the hyperCVAD (hyperfractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, dexamethasone, methotrexate, cytarabine) backbone. Among them, 323 (95%) achieved complete remission (CR) and were included in this study. Median age was 52 years (range, 15-84). Median white blood cell count (WBC) was 9·35 × 10(9) /l (range, 0·4-658·1 ×1 0(9) /l). MRD by MFC was initially assessed with a sensitivity of 0·01%, using a 15-marker, 4-colour panel and subsequently a 6-colour panel on bone marrow specimens obtained at CR achievement and at approximately 3 month intervals thereafter. MRD negative status at CR was associated with improved disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (P = 0·004 and P = 0·03, respectively). Similarly, achieving MRD negative status at approximately 3 and 6 months was associated with improved DFS (P = 0·004 and P < 0·0001, respectively) and OS (P = 0·004 and P < 0·0001, respectively). Multivariate analysis including age, WBC at presentation, cytogenetics (standard versus high risk) and MRD status at CR, 3 and 6 months, indicated that MRD negative status at CR was an independent predictor of DFS (P < 0·05). Achievement of an MRD negative state assessed by MFC is an important predictor of DFS and OS in adult patients with ALL.
‘A Bad Lot’: Local Politics and the Survey of Oxkraal and Kamastone, 1853-1923

ABSTRACTThe large Fingo reserve areas of Oxkraal and Kamastone in the Queenstown Division were the site of significant social change and colonial efforts at spatial engineering in order to guide the area from communities under chiefs and hereditary headmen into landscapes with blocks of yeoman farmers and surplus labourers. From the 1850s onward, the area was a target for such efforts, which centred on the survey and titling of finite parcels to individual households. However, local communities, extant Fingo authorities, and various individuals sought to modify the project before it could be carried out, and they worked to circumvent its more onerous aspects afterwards. The relationship between the state and the Oxkraal and Kamastone communities shows both the fixations of the former and the resilient adaptability of the latter, a combination that exposes the limits of each in controlling the changing context of colonial interventions.
Issues in contemporary drug delivery. Part VI: Advanced cardiac drug formulations.

OBJECTIVE To identify and discuss the clinical utility of new delivery systems and formulations of cardiac drugs. DATA SOURCES Studies describing or evaluating new drug delivery systems for cardiac drugs were identified through a MEDLINE literature search. STUDY SELECTION All studies describing or evaluating new delivery systems for cardiac drugs were reviewed. DATA EXTRACTION Data were abstracted and evaluated by each author independently. DATA SYNTHESIS The most common oral sustained-release formulations include the wax-matrix system, the gastrointestinal therapeutic system (GITS), and the spheroidal oral drug absorption system (SODAS). The wax-matrix delivery system is limited by the occurrence of "dose-dumping." In a low-pH setting, the wax-matrix formulation may dissolve too rapidly, liberating the entire dose in a short period of time. The clinical relevance of this phenomenon is unknown. The GITS and SODAS formulations are less likely to be affected by pH and food. Nitroglycerin is available by many routes of administration. The topical patch forms are convenient to use, but are associated with the development of tolerance. A buccal formulation incorporates a relatively short onset of effect with a three- or four-times-daily dosing regimen. Although tolerance is less of a problem with buccal nitroglycerin than with topical nitrates, this formulation is less convenient to use because of buccal irritation and interference with eating and talking. A new spray formulation of nitroglycerin offers longer shelf-life storage stability and an easier mode of administration. The spray canister is stable for three years compared with 12 weeks for an opened bottle of sublingual nitroglycerin tablets. Sublingual administration of oral cardiac drugs offers the potential for a more rapid onset of effects. Although nifedipine is often given sublingually, objective data indicate that it is not absorbed buccally but rather in the stomach. It appears that the chew-and-swallow route is most appropriate for nifedipine. Captopril is absorbed sublingually but its efficacy has not been demonstrated. Transdermal clonidine improves compliance and is associated with fewer adverse effects than oral clonidine. Transdermal formulations of beta-blockers are currently being evaluated. CONCLUSIONS Further advancements in the development of novel delivery systems for cardiac drugs are expected in the future.
Determination of Non-Flow Shrinkage Ratio in Oriented Fibers

A method for the determination of the non-flow shrinkage ratio of oriented fibers is described. The dimensional changes accompanying the transition of an oriented semi-crystalline molecular structure into a disoriented amorphous random coil structure are shown for various types of fibers. Irradiation and fatiguing had a pronounced effect on fiber shrinkage, both in the magnitude of shrinkage and in the temperature range where the shrinking process terminates. A previously derived theory of shrinkage was applied to obtain values for the average crystallite sizes in the fibers studied. These were found to be in accord with estimates made by others using x-ray methods.
Marginal instability and deep cycle turbulence in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean

[1] Deep cycle mixing in the cold tongue of the equatorial Pacific Ocean is associated with a mean flow regime in which the gradient Richardson number Ri (a ratio of stratification to shear that affects the evolution of turbulence) fluctuates about a critical value near 14. This is the state of marginal instability (MI), a stable equilibrium between forcing by the trade winds (which works to reduce Ri) and turbulence (which works to increase Ri). Besides providing insight into the physics of deep cycle turbulence, MI is easily recognized in moored records of currents and density, and may therefore provide a valuable indicator of turbulence in historical data where direct turbulence measurements were not made. In this initial study, the seasonal cycle of MI is described. MI is present for 9 months of the year but disappears in March, April, and May, consistent with the recently discovered springtime minimum of equatorial turbulence.
CPD Article: Complications of Body Piercing.

The trend of body piercing at sites other than the earlobe has grown in popularity in the past decade. The tongue, lips, nose, eyebrows, nipples, navel, and genitals may be pierced. Complications of body piercing include local and systemic infections, poor cosmesis, and foreign body rejection. Swelling and tooth fracture are common problems after tongue piercing. Minor infections, allergic contact dermatitis, keloid formation, and traumatic tearing may occur after piercing of the earlobe. "High" ear piercing through the ear cartilage is associated with more serious infections and disfigurement. Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are advised for treatment of auricular perichondritis because of their antipseudomonal activity. Many complications from piercing are body-site-specific or related to the piercing technique used. Navel, nipple, and genital piercings often have prolonged healing times. Family physicians should be prepared to address complications of body piercing and provide accurate information to patients. (SA Fam Pract 2006;48(1): 44-47) (Copyright © 2005 American Academy of Family Physicians. This article is reprinted with permission from the American Family Physician 2005;72:2029-34.) Permission from the AAFP was granted to publish this article in the hardcopy only. Kindly refer to www.aafp.org or subscribe to the hardcopy of South African Family Practice.
A note on errors-in-variables in panel data

This Note expands the difference estimator developed by GRILICHES and HAUSMAN (1986) to the case of many independent variables, all having errors-in-variables.
An empirical study of skills assessment for software practitioners

Software professionals face the difficult challenge of keeping up with today's fast-paced technological environment. There has been much discussion about technical obsolescence in a field where the half-life of an undergraduate education is only a few years. Moreover, assessments provide measurable proof of behavioral changes, legitimizing the human resource department's role in improving productivity by rendering it quantifiable. In this paper, we describe an empirical study of the skills assessment of software practitioners. This study is based on a survey performed collaboratively by the Software Engineering Research Center (SERC), Purdue University, and IBM Training and Education, with direct participation from the IEEE. The goal of this research was the determination of the critical skills necessary for software professionals. This paper describes the survey, the structure of the questionnaire, and the skills assessment process. Skills assessment stages such as data collection, data analysis, data representation, and follow-up reassessment are also described. Detailed results of the survey and selected critical skills relating to both object-oriented and client-server technologies are presented in this paper. These assessments provide a systematic approach through which human resources departments can improve productivity during downturns by increasing the working effectiveness of software developers. We believe that university software engineering students must understand the differences between academic programming and industry software development and engineering. They must also be able to perform the activities involved with plan development, project management, and software product evaluation. We also conclude that these assessments will foster genuine commitment and motivate software practitioners to grow in a field of technology that changes daily.
A Low-Noise Low-Power Preamplifier for Capacitive CMOS-MEMS Gyroscopes

This paper reports a low-noise low-power amplifier design that is suitable for CMOS-MEMS capacitive vibratory gyroscopes. Low noise is achieved by chopping the Coriolis signal to a high frequency (1 MHz) and optimally sizing the input transistors. Low power consumption is obtained by applying a fully differential, two-stage open-loop architecture, which utilizes low-impedance node chopping and dynamic element matching. Pseudo-resistor MOS-Bipolar devices are used to establish a stable DC bias at the sensing electrodes. A prototype was fabricated in a TSMC 0.18 mum CMOS process. When chopped at 1 MHz, the circuit achieves a gain of 40 dB. The equivalent input noise is 20 nV/VHz for frequencies up to 20 kHz. The equivalent circuit offset is below 200 muV. With a 3.3 V supply voltage, the circuit draws a current of 300 muA.
In vivo measurement of arterial and venous oxygenation in the rat using 3D spectral-spatial electron paramagnetic resonance imaging

Electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) instrumentation, enabling the performance of three-dimensional spectral-spatial images of free radicals, has been developed to study spatially defined differences in tissue metabolism and oxygenation. Using this instrumentation 3D images of nitroxides in rat tail were obtained. The images visualize the arterial and venous vasculature in the tail segment. Based on the exchange broadening influence of oxygen on the EPR linewidth of nitroxides, we performed localized oxygen measurements in the in vivo rat. An oxygen concentration of was measured in the arteries and in the veins. These results demonstrate the feasibility of performing in vivo, non-invasive measurements and mapping of localized oxygenation in small animals using spectral-spatial EPR imaging techniques.
Mascons: Lunar Mass Concentrations

Lunar Orbiter tracking data have been processed to supply a qualitatively consistent gravimetric map of the lunar nearside. While a simplified model was employed, the results indicate that there are large mass concentrations under the lunar ringed maria. These mass concentrations may have important implications for the various theories regarding lunar history.
Estimating Optimum Size of Food Processing Plants Using Survivor Analysis

As applied to manufacturing plants, optimum size commonly refers to the range in volume over which average total costs, as depicted by the industry's long-run planning curve, are at a minimum (Bain). Knowledge of the limits to optimum size can guide managers in adapting operations to changing conditions. Government administrators and legislators also need that information in framing antitrust policies and in developing legislation to control conduct.
Comparison of some algorithms for reconstructing space-limited images

This paper deals with the long-standing problem of reconstructing an optical object of known finite spatial extent from an image that is a noisy low-pass-filtered version of the object. The development of a number of iterative reconstruction algorithms in recent years has created a resurgence of interest in this topic. We consider several reconstruction algorithms from a point of view that illuminates their performance in the presence of noise. We also introduce a new iterative reconstruction algorithm and compare its performance with that of an earlier algorithm proposed by Gerchberg.
Grid services for distributed system integration

Increasingly, computing addresses collaboration, data sharing, and interaction modes that involve distributed resources, resulting in an increased focus on the interconnection of systems both within and across enterprises. These evolutionary pressures have led to the development of Grid technologies. The authors' work focuses on the nature of the services that respond to protocol messages. Grid provides an extensible set of services that can be aggregated in various ways to meet the needs of virtual organizations, which themselves can be defined in part by the services they operate and share.
‘Anyone can know’: Citizen journalism and the interpretive community of the mainstream press:

In Madison, WI, two news groups – bloggers and local reporters – are squaring off, developing separate value systems and establishing protocols of intergroup activity. This study explored those fra...
ICOS-based chimeric antigen receptors program bipolar TH17/TH1 cells

With the notable exception of B-cell malignancies, the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has been limited, and CAR T cells have not been shown to expand and persist in patients with nonlymphoid tumors. Here we demonstrate that redirection of primary human T cells with a CAR containing the inducible costimulator (ICOS) intracellular domain generates tumor-specific IL-17-producing effector cells that show enhanced persistence. Compared with CARs containing the CD3ζ chain alone, or in tandem with the CD28 or the 4-1BB intracellular domains, ICOS signaling increased IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22 following antigen recognition. In addition, T cells redirected with an ICOS-based CAR maintained a core molecular signature characteristic of TH17 cells and expressed higher levels of RORC, CD161, IL1R-1, and NCS1. Of note, ICOS signaling also induced the expression of IFN-γ and T-bet, consistent with a TH17/TH1 bipolarization. When transferred into mice with established tumors, TH17 cells that were redirected with ICOS-based CARs mediated efficient antitumor responses and showed enhanced persistence compared with CD28- or 4-1BB-based CAR T cells. Thus, redirection of TH17 cells with a CAR encoding the ICOS intracellular domain is a promising approach to augment the function and persistence of CAR T cells in hematologic malignancies.
Energy Release of the 2013 Mw 8.3 Sea of Okhotsk Earthquake and Deep Slab Stress Heterogeneity

Earth’s deepest earthquakes occur in subducting oceanic lithosphere, where temperatures are lower than in ambient mantle. On 24 May 2013, a magnitude 8.3 earthquake ruptured a 180-kilometer-long fault within the subducting Pacific plate about 609 kilometers below the Sea of Okhotsk. Global seismic P wave recordings indicate a radiated seismic energy of ~1.5 × 10^(17) joules. A rupture velocity of ~4.0 to 4.5 kilometers/second is determined by back-projection of short-period P waves, and the fault width is constrained to give static stress drop estimates (~12 to 15 megapascals) compatible with theoretical radiation efficiency for crack models. A nearby aftershock had a stress drop one to two orders of magnitude higher, indicating large stress heterogeneity in the deep slab, and plausibly within the rupture process of the great event.
CAPL: an efficient association software package using family and case-control data and accounting for population stratification

Background: With many genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets available, it is critical that we have statistical tools that are both flexible to accommodate different study designs and fast. We recently proposed the combined APL (CAPL) method, which can use family and case-control datasets and can account for population stratification in the data. Because computationally intensive algorithms are used in CAPL, implementing CAPL with efficient parallel algorithms is essential. Results: We used a hybrid of open message passing interface (open MPI) and POSIX threads to parallelize CAPL, which enable the program to operate in a cluster environment. We used simulations to demonstrate that the parallel implementation of CAPL can analyze a large GWAS dataset in a reasonable time frame when a parallel computing resource is available. Conclusions: As many GWAS datasets based on both family and case-control designs are available, a flexible and efficient tool such as CAPL will be very helpful to combine the datasets to greatly increase statistical power and finish the analysis in a reasonable time frame.
Critical current density and mechanism of vortex pinning in K{x}Fe{2-y}Se{2} doped with S

We report the critical current density ${J}_{c}$ in K${}_{x}$Fe${}_{2\ensuremath{-}y}$Se${}_{2\ensuremath{-}z}$S${}_{z}$ crystals. The ${J}_{c}$ can be enhanced significantly with optimal S doping ($z=0.99$). For K${}_{0.70(7)}$Fe${}_{1.55(7)}$Se${}_{1.01(2)}$S${}_{0.99(2)}$, the weak fishtail effect is found for $H\ensuremath{\parallel}c$. The normalized vortex pinning forces follow the scaling law with a maximum position at 0.41 of the reduced magnetic field. These results demonstrate that the small size normal point defects dominate the vortex pinning mechanism.
Different Action of Auxin-A and of Heter-Auxin (Preliminary Note).

It is well known that unilateral growth hormone application to young coleoptiles and hypocotyls causes negative curvatures (growth substance curvatures) in these organs. Light affects these curvatures as has been shown in an earlier paper (Van Overbeek 1933) for the hypocotyls of Raphanus. Light also has an effect on the growth substance curvatures of Avena coleoptiles, as will be shown below.
Activation of the Murine Thyrotropin β-Subunit Promoter by GH4 Rat Pituitary Cell-Free Extracts

Expression of the TSHβ subunit gene is restricted to the thyrotroph cells of the anterior pituitary. Previously we identified several AT-rich DNA elements within the murine (m) TSHβ 5′-flanking region, denoted as D1 (−253 to −227), P4 (−142 to −131), P3 (−126 to −112), P2 (−106 to −98), and P1 (−76 to−68) which bind thyrotroph-specific factor(s). These sites are related to, but distinct from GHF-1 and LSF-1 binding sites, which restrict GH and PRL gene expression to pituitary somatotrophs and lactotrophs, respectively. To determine whether different pituitary cell types contain related factors capable of activating the mTSHβ promoter, cell-free transcription studies were performed using extracts from GH4 rat pituitary somatomammotroph cells. Although the endogenous mTSHβ gene is not expressed in GH4 cells, in vitro transcription of the mTSHβ promoter, normalized to the Rous sarcoma virus internal control, revealed faithful transcription initiation from the authentic mTSHβ CAP sites in GH4 but not in HeLa ...
Renormalized atoms and the calculation of core electron excitation energies in the rare earths

Abstract A procedure has been expressly developed for calculating excitation energies of localized states in the rare earth metals. Relativistic Hartree-Fock computations for appropriate atomic configurations are performed initially, and crystal potentials are then constructed by means of the renormalized atom method. Excitation energies are derived from total energy differences rather than one-electron eigenvalues. Many of the results are pertinent to fluctuating valence materials. These include 4f level energies and the impact of a 4f configuration change on other core electron binding energies.
Percutaneous cardiopulmonary support to treat suspected venous air embolism with cardiac arrest during open eye surgery: a case report

We report a case of possible venous air embolism (VAE) during trans pars plana vitrectomy with air-fluid exchange of the vitreous cavity. Shortly after initiation of air-fluid exchange, decreases in end-tidal CO2, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure were observed. The patient rapidly progressed to cardiac arrest unresponsive to cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and recovered after the application of percutaneous cardiopulmonary support. Prompt termination of air infusion is needed when VAE is suspected during air-fluid exchange, and extracorporeal life support should be considered in fatal cases. Although the incidence is rare the possibility of VAE during ophthalmic surgery clearly exists, and therefore awareness and vigilant monitoring seem critical.
Surgical retained foreign object (RFO) prevention by computer aided detection (CAD)

Surgical Retained Foreign Objects (RFOs) cause significant morbidity and mortality. They are associated with $1.5 billion annually in preventable medical costs. The detection accuracy of radiographs for RFOs is a mediocre 59%. We address the RFO problem with two complementary technologies: a three dimensional (3D) Gossypiboma Micro Tag (μTa) that improves the visibility of RFOs on radiographs, and a Computer Aided Detection (CAD) system that detects the μTag. The 3D geometry of the μTag produces a similar 2D depiction on radiographs regardless of its orientation in the human body and ensures accurate detection by a radiologist and the CAD. We create a database of cadaveric radiographs with the μTag and other common man-made objects positioned randomly. We develop the CAD modules that include preprocessing, μTag enhancement, labeling, segmentation, feature analysis, classification and detection. The CAD can operate in a high specificity mode for the surgeon to allow for seamless workflow integration and function as a first reader. The CAD can also operate in a high sensitivity mode for the radiologist to ensure accurate detection. On a data set of 346 cadaveric radiographs, the CAD system performed at a high specificity (85.5% sensitivity, 0.02 FPs/image) for the OR and a high sensitivity (96% sensitivity, 0.73 FPs/image) for the radiologists.
Composition of wax from seed flax straw

Wax from leaves and stems of ripe seed flax contains hydrocarbons (14%), esters (35%), aldehydes, (12%), free acids (2%), free alcohols (17%), and unidentified material (20%). The chain length range of the hydrocarbons is C25-C33 (major component C29); of the esters is C40-C52 (major component C46); of the combined acids is C14-C30 (major component C18); and of the combined and free alcohols, the aldehydes, and the free acids is C22-C32 (major component C28).
Diffusion of robotic innovations in health care environments using the interactive evaluation methodology

Abstract Numerous factors will determine the successful diffusion of robotic technologies into health and human service domains. This paper will present an overview of some of the issues that require consideration for the application of smart technologies to service roles. Adaptation of classical diffusion of innovation theory [23] in conjunction with recent innovative methodologies for advanced technology research, design, and development [10] provide the framework for discussion of these issues.
Hitting time of a moving boundary for a diffusion

Abstract We obtain asymptotic estimates for the quantity r = log P [ T f [rang] t ] as t → ∞ where T f = inf\s{ s : | X ( s )|[rang] f ( s )\s} and X is a real diffusion in natural scale with generator a ( x ) d 2 (·)/d x 2 and the ‘boundary’ f ( s ) is an increasing function. We impose regular variation on a and f and the result is expressed as r = ∫ t 0 λ 1 ( f ( s ) d s (1 + o(1)) where λ 1 ( f ) is the smallest eigenvalue for the process killed at ± f .
The syntax of direct quotes with special reference to Spanish and English

This paper provides an in-depth study of the syntax of direct quotes in Spanish. It compares the results to those reported for English (Collins and Branigan 1997, and Collins 1997), and reveals substantial differences between the languages. Not only do the two contrast with respect to the possibility for null subjects, V raising to T and adverb positions, but when subject-verb inversion occurs in quotative expressions, English but not Spanish (nor French) obeys the complex verb and the transitivity constraints, and bans sentential negation. It is argued here that the main differences arise from the overt positions V occupies and the way in which the null object of the quotative expression moves. The object always raises to an A'-position in Spanish, whereas in English it lands in an A-position in the inversion variant and in an A'-position in the non-inverted one. Essentially, little specific to the syntax of direct quotes is needed to account for the facts in Spanish since the construction partakes of well-established patterns of the language; in English, however, quotative inversion has a rather atypical constituent order that requires construction-specific mechanisms, such as short V movement to Asps, for example.
Ideal Resistivity in One Dimension

We analyze the ideal resistivity, $\ensuremath{\rho}$, of a one-dimensional metal at high temperatures. We have adapted a diagrammatic technique introduced by Berezinskii in the context of static disorder. Retaining the dominant vertices in the limit of vanishing electron-phonon coupling constant, $g$, and phonon frequency, ${\ensuremath{\Omega}}_{0}$, with $\frac{{g}^{2}}{{\ensuremath{\Omega}}_{0}}$ finite, we obtain a dc resistivity $\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\propto}{T}^{2}$ instead of $T$. The result may be interpreted in terms of diffusion of electrons.
Conditioned suppression as a function of the number of stimuli that precede shock

The conditioned suppression of a previously trained lever pressing response was observed in hooded rats. One group of rats received pairings of one 60-sec stimulus followed by shock. The remaining two groups received two consecutive 30-sec stimuli with the second stimulus followed by shock. It was found that the one-stimulus group suppressed lever pressing strongly during every presentation of the stimulus. Both of the two-stimuli groups suppressed lever pressing in both stimuli on early trials. On later trials, both groups showed less suppression of lever pressing in the first stimulus than in the second stimulus, indicating the development of a discrimination of the time of shock delivery.
Transmission electron microscopy study of interfacial microstructure formed by reacting Al–Mg alloy with mullite at high temperature

Abstract Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been used to study the interfacial microstructure formed by reacting Al–Mg alloy with mullite (Al 6 Si 2 O 13 ) at high temperature (>900°C). The TEM study was used in order to understand the strong effect of Mg addition on the nature of the reaction between Al and mullite used to form Al/Al 2 O 3 composite. After reaction at 1050°C, the formation of a layered structure between the Al–1% Mg alloy and mullite was observed. An alloy layer with a much higher concentration of Mg than the starting alloy was found present next to the initial mullite surface. Between the alloy layer and mullite, a dense and continuous layer made of small MgAl 2 O 4 (spinel) and Si particles was present. The layer apparently stopped further reaction between Al–Mg alloy and mullite by preventing transport of the metals to the reaction front and the Si reaction product away from the reaction front. The microstructure resulting from the initial reaction indicated the reaction proceeded by replacing Si atoms with Al and Mg atoms on mullite {210} lattice planes and forming MgAl 2 O 4 {311} lattice planes simultaneously.
Counseling Centers: A Call for Campus Leadership

I am concerned about the future identity and mission of counseling centers and especially the freedom to provide well-rounded services. In particular, I see forces that may tend to move us toward w...
Qualitative modeling of the organizational acceptance of advanced manufacturing technologies

The need to effectively manage technology has been around since the early days of American industrialization. Pioneers of American manufacturing such as DuPont and Ford all faced competitive pressures to develop and apply emerging technologies. In the past decade, the rash of failures involving the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) suggests technology implementation requires a better understanding of the human issues involved. Fundamental to the implementation of AMT is the existence of technology champions. Some researchers have suggested that technology champions can be cultivated through the identification and engagement of informal leaders. The following study proposes a methodology for simulating group interaction based on communication diffusion theory. This methodology is used to identify and engage informal opinion leaders for the purposes of improving CIM implementations. @ 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Nanosecond Fluorescence Spectroscopy

This article is a summary of a short course lecture given in conjunction with the 1984 Nuclear Science Symposium. Measuring systems for nanosecond fluorescence spectroscopy using single-photon counting techniques are presented. These involve systems based on relaxation-type spark gap light pulser and synchronously pumped mode-locked dye lasers. Furthermore, typical characteristics and optimization of operating conditions of the critical components responsible for the system time resolution are discussed. A short comparison of the most important deconvolution methods for numerical analysis of experimental data is given particularly with respect to the signal-to-noise ratio of the fluorescence signal.
New Routes for Multiple Derivatization of Polyoxometalates. Bis(acetato)dirhodium-11-tungstophosphate, [(PO4)W11O35{Rh2(OAc)2}]5-

Hydrothermal reaction of lacunary [(PO4)W11O35]7- with rhodium acetate dimer yields the novel dirhodium-substituted Keggin anion, [(PO4)W11O35{Rh2(OAc)2}]5- (1). An X-ray structure determination of the guanidiunium salt of the dimethyl sulfoxide derivative of 1 confirms the structure deduced from proton and tungsten NMR spectroscopy. Oxidation of 1 to an unstable RhII,III derivative, and synthesis of other polytungstate analogs is possible. The tetrabutylammonium salt of 1 exhibits modest catalytic reactivity for cyclopropanation.
The effect of mixing on transesterification of beef tallow

Mixing is very important to the transesterification of beef tallow, because melted beef tallow and a sodium hydroxide–methanol solution (NaOH–MeOH) are immiscible. There was no reaction without mixing. When NaOH–MeOH was added to the melted beef tallow in the reactor while stirring, stirring speed was insignificant. Reaction time was the controlling factor in determining the yield of methyl esters. This suggested that the stirring speeds investigated exceeded the threshold requirement of mixing. When NaOH–MeOH was added to the melted beef tallow without stirring, higher stirring speeds or longer stirring times were needed to mix the two phases subsequently. In both cases, once the two phases were mixed and the reaction was started, stirring was no longer needed. Misek's equation was applicable to the former case. The droplet diameter was inversely proportional to the square of the rotation speed. But in the latter case, the droplet diameter was inversely proportional to n1.2. Smaller NaOH–MeOH droplets in melted beef tallow resulted in fast transesterification reaction and stable emulsion.
A Computer Method for Pumping-Test Analysis

The knowledge of aquifer parameters is invaluable for quantitative description of geohydrologic systems and for optimal utilization of ground-water resources. The classical methods of pumping-test analysis are mostly graphical in nature and there is room for error in individual judgment in the geographical analysis. The computer method for aquifer evaluation comes under the inverse analysis techniques and is based on the classical principle of least squares. The sum of the weighted squares of differences between the observed drawdowns and the drawdowns calculated using the theoretical drawdown equations for the flow system under consideration is minimized, treating the aquifer parameters as decision variables. The method can be applied to any flow system for which analytical expressions for the potential distribution are known. The method was successfully applied to four pumping tests, two in nonleaky confined flow 1 systems, one in a leaky confined flow system, and one in an anisotropic nonleaky confined flow system. The percentage differences between the values of storativity and of transmissivity arrived at by the two methods are found to be as much as 24-and 1.6 percents, respectively.
An introduction to primate behavioral ecology suitable for college students

Review of Primate Behavioral Ecology by Karen B. Strier. Boston, Allyn and Bacon, 2000, viii + 392 pp, 216 fig., 15 tab., $37.00.
Comparison of Regional Cerebral Blood Flow Responses to Hypoglycemia Using Pulsed Arterial Spin Labeling and Positron Emission Tomography

Different brain regions sense and modulate the counterregulatory responses that can occur in response to declining plasma glucose levels. The aim of this study was to determine if changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) during hypoglycemia relative to euglycemia are similar for two imaging modalities–pulsed arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging (PASL-MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). Nine healthy non-diabetic participants underwent a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic (92±3 mg/dL) – hypoglycemic (53±1 mg/dL) clamp. Counterregulatory hormone levels were collected at each of these glycemic levels and rCBF measurements within the previously described network of hypoglycemia-responsive regions (thalamus, medial prefrontal cortex and globus pallidum) were obtained using PASL-MRI and [15O] water PET. In response to hypoglycemia, rCBF was significantly increased in the thalamus, medial prefrontal cortex, and globus pallidum compared to euglycemia for both PASL-MRI and PET methodologies. Both imaging techniques found similar increases in rCBF in the thalamus, medial prefrontal cortex, and globus pallidum in response to hypoglycemia. These brain regions may be involved in the physiologic and symptom responses to hypoglycemia. Compared to PET, PASL-MRI may provide a less invasive, less expensive method for assessing changes in rCBF during hypoglycemia without radiation exposure.
Peptide α-amidation: Differential regulation by disulfiram and its metabolite, diethyldithiocarbamate

The rate limiting step in the alpha-amidation of bioactive peptides is catalyzed by peptidylglycine-alpha-hydroxylating mono-oxygenase (PHM; EC 1.14.17.3). Sustained treatment with disulfiram (Antabuse), the disulfide dimer of diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC), inhibits PHM in vivo, causing tissue levels of alpha-amidated peptides to decrease. As a compensatory response, PHM protein is modified in such a way that its activity is increased when assayed under optimal conditions in a test tube. Because disulfiram is rapidly reduced to DDC in vivo, this investigation sought to determine if metabolic transformation plays a role in the effects of disulfiram treatment on alpha-amidation. While disulfiram treatment reduced concentrations of alpha-amidated peptides in the pituitary neurointermediate lobe and brain, DDC treatment did not, even at comparatively high doses. Both treatments increased the activity of PHM extracted from the neurointermediate pituitary and assayed under optimal copper conditions in vitro. Only disulfiram treatment elicited an increase in PHM activity extracted from cardiac atrium. It is concluded that the activity of PHM is regulated in a tissue specific fashion and that not all of the actions of disulfiram require its metabolism to DDC.
The effects of drugs which destroy the sympathetic nervous system on the retrograde transport of nerve growth factor

Abstract It has been proposed that the drugs (6-hydroxydopamine, guanethidine, vinblastine) which are known to destroy sympathetic neurons in neonatal animals do so by preventing the accumulation of retrogradely transported nerve growth factor (NGF). It was found, consistent with the proposal, that administration of 6-hydroxydopamine (100 mg/kg s.c.) or vinblastine (0.4 mg/kg s.c.) 16 h prior to the administration of [ 125 I]NGF completely prevented the accumulation of retrogradely transported [ 125 I]NGF in superior cervical ganglia of neonatal rats. Administration of 6-hydroxydopamine or vinblastine to adult rats (where it does not cause sympathetic neuron cell death) did not completely prevent the retrograde transport of NGF, although 6-hydroxydopamine produced an alteration of the time course of accumulation (early times unaffected, later times depressed). The administration of guanethidine to adult rats (50 mg/kg/day) produced a modest decrease in the accumulation of NGF (40–60%). It would appear, however, that this decrease cannot account for the cytotoxic effects of guanethidine since: (1) sub-cytotoxic doses of guanethidine and non-cytotoxic guanidinium blocking agents also produce modest decreases in the retrograde transport in NGF; and (2) the retrograde transport of [ 125 I]NGF is not affected in neonatal animals until after the neurons are clearly damaged. Hence, the data are entirely consistent with the hypothesis that NGF deprivation caused by 6-hydroxydopamine and vinblastine is the mechanism of the cytotoxic effects of these drugs on sympathetic neurons in neonatal animals. Guanethidine destroys sympathetic neurons by some other mechanism.
Delivering Mobile eGovernance on Low-End-Phones

While many public services are getting web-enabled, there are many hurdles in getting those services to a common man. A key problem is the low Internet penetration among this population. Despite the growth in mobile phone usage, mobile internet has not taken off. More than 50% of the handsets sold just support voice and text messaging. We therefore, propose a platform to deliver Internet-based services over these low-featured phones. Our approach enables rapid creation of SMS and voice interfaces for any IT service without any programming. In addition the platform enables rapid creation of mobile widgets for Android, Palm and Windows phones. Customized location aware applications can also be enabled for Android devices through the platform. A live pilot is currently ongoing in India for health and career related services.
Methodological issues in collecting data from traditional birth attendants.

Abstract Information on the activities, practices and social context of pregnancy and delivery care provided by traditional birth attendants (TBA) is a critical requirement in planning, monitoring and evaluating maternal health programs in many countries. As a result of experimental studies in which such information was obtained by a variety of methods, and a review of alternative methodologies, a set of guidelines has been developed for the collection of such information. Highlighted are the need for good background knowledge on the local situation, involving TBAs themselves in design and collecting methods, a system of supervision to ensure adequate training and careful monitoring and finally sharing the findings with the TBAs as well as with health officials.
Effects of environment and surface coatings on the fatigue properties of polystyrene

Abstract The influence of surface condition, environmental media and surface coatings on the fatigue lifetime of polystyrene specimens has been explored. It is shown that surface flaws such as machining marks, are much more detrimental to fatigue lifetime than to static strength. The effect of alcohols on fatigue lifetime is primarily one of plasticization rather than of molecular size and mobility. Hence n-butanol is a more aggressive environment for polystyrene than is methanol. For a wide variety of organic media, a fairly good correlation was found between fatigue lifetime and solubility parameter. Highly polar media, like glycerol and water, are shown to be favourable media, rather than aggressive ones, in that they increase average fatigue lifetimes of polystyrene specimens by about one decade. It is suggested that any media that inhibit or delay crazing, either by increasing surface energy or by blunting flaws and reducing stress concentration, should also be beneficial to fatigue performance. A surface coating that performs this latter function is a 600 molecular weight polystyrene oligomer. It is shown that application of this compatible, viscous coating to polystyrene specimens increases the average fatigue life, for both polished and unpolished specimens by a decade or more.
Spectral gap and logarithmic Sobolev inequality for Kawasaki and Glauber dynamics

We prove that the spectral gap of the Kawasaki dynamics shrink at the rate of IlL 2 for cubes of size L provided that some mixing conditions are satisfied. We also prove that the logarithmic Sobolev inequality for the Glauber dynamics in standard cubes holds uniformly in the size of the cube if the Dobrushin-Shlosman mixing condition holds for standard cubes.
Integrating and Advertising Government Publications Internally and Externally: A Guide for Documents Librarians.

ABSTRACT Government publications contain a wealth of information. In an effort to increase the usage of these important publications, the staff at Bierce Library, University of Akron, use the following strategies to integrate and advertise government publications into the library activities and the community: (1) cataloging the publications so they appear on the local online catalog as well as the statewide catalog, (2) integrating them into the bibliographic instruction program, (3) listing them in pathfinders as sources on various topics, (4) making them a focus of “hot topics” such as health care reform, (5) presenting and promoting special workshops on specialized government databases such as the National Trade Data Bank and GPO Access (using the flyer approach), (6) visiting your Congressional Representative's Office to increase awareness of the information available in Depository Libraries to his/her constituents, (7) discussing these avenues at state groups, (8) including these methods in conferenc...
Numerical simulation of free shrinkage using a continuum theory for sintering

Abstract Spontaneous densification of a particulate mass during sintering is driven by the thermodynamically unstable state of the system. Thermodynamic or sintering stresses are induced by the current microstructural state of the system and can be quantified within the context of a continuum theory for sintering granular materials [1]. Using this theory, numerical simulations of the densification process using finite elements have been made. An interesting consequence of the simulations is the prediction of the formation of relatively low density regions caused by initial density variations. Such low density regions are likely sources of defects such as crack initiation sites.
Examining the Role of Nasopharyngeal-associated Lymphoreticular Tissue (NALT) in Mouse Responses to Vaccines

The nasopharyngeal-associated lymphoreticular tissues (NALT) found in humans, rodents, and other mammals, contribute to immunity in the nasal sinuses1-3. The NALT are two parallel bell-shaped structures located in the nasal passages above the hard palate, and are usually considered to be secondary components of the mucosal-associated lymphoid system4-6. Located within the NALT are discrete compartments of B and T lymphocytes interspersed with antigen-presenting dendritic cells4,7,8. These cells are surrounded by an epithelial cell layer intercalated with M-cells that are responsible for antigen retrieval from the mucosal surfaces of the air passages9,10. Naive lymphocytes circulating through the NALT are poised to respond to first encounters with respiratory pathogens7. While NALT disappear in humans by the age of two years, the Waldeyer's Ring and similarly structured lymphatic organs continue to persist throughout life6. In contrast to humans, mice retain NALT throughout life, thus providing a convenient animal model for the study of immune responses originating within the nasal sinuses11. Cultures of single-cell suspensions of NALT are not practical due to low yields of mononuclear cells. However, NALT biology can be examined by ex vivo culturing of the intact organ, and this method has the additional advantage of maintaining the natural tissue structure. For in vivo studies, genetic knockout models presenting defects limited to NALT are not currently available due to a poor understanding of the developmental pathway. For example, while lymphotoxin-α knockout mice have atrophied NALT, the Peyer's patches, peripheral lymph nodes, follicular dendritic cells and other lymphoid tissues are also altered in these genetically manipulated mice12,13. As an alternative to gene knockout mice, surgical ablation permanently eliminates NALT from the nasal passage without affecting other tissues. The resulting mouse model has been used to establish relationships between NALT and immune responses to vaccines1,3. Serial collection of serum, saliva, nasal washes and vaginal secretions is necessary for establishing the basis of host responses to vaccination, while immune responses originating directly from NALT can be confirmed by tissue culture. The following procedures outline the surgeries, tissue culture and sample collection necessary to examine local and systemic humoral immune responses to intranasal (IN) vaccination.