cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vacuum-assisted closure for the treatment of complex chest wounds

Background Destruction of chest wall musculature from trauma, empyema, or local infection limits closure options, especially with muscle flaps. While the vacuum-assisted closure system (VAC; KCI International, San Antonio, TX) has been used for wounds in other anatomic locations, we have found no series for chest wounds. Methods This is a retrospective review of trauma registry data from the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine from 2000 to 2003. Results Seventeen patients were identified and divided into two groups. Group I consisted of seven patients with primary chest wall processes: four necrotizing soft-tissue infections and three with thoracic trauma resulting in significant loss of chest wall musculature. Group II consisted of ten patients with empyema and varying levels of chest wall extension. Six were postpneumonic and four postoperative. Wound size averaged 16 × 7 cm (range, 7 × 3 cm to 21 × 11 cm). The VAC duration averaged nine days (range, 3 to 21 days) and changed every two to three days. Fourteen wounds were culture positive; nine staphylococcus aureus , two alpha hemolytic streptococcus , and one each with enterococcus , Citrobacter, and anaerobes. Eight were polymicrobial. There were no deaths. All wounds healed without rotational muscle flaps. Ten underwent delayed primary closure, four split-thickness skin graft, and three healed by secondary intention. There was one significant complication: a wound infection after delayed primary closure which required reoperation. Conclusions Closure of complex chest wall wounds can present significant technical challenges. The VAC system is a simple, useful, and novel alternative to conventional wound care even with large, infected wounds.
E-free objects and e-locality for completely regular semigroups

We prove that the e-variety CR(H), of all completely regular semigroups whose subgroups belong to some group variety H, is e-local; that is, every regular, locally completely regular semigroupoid [with subgroups fromH] divides a completely regular semigroup [with subgroups from H], in a ‘regular’ way. In a future paper with P.G. Trotter, this theorem will be applied to semidirect products of e-varieties and to e-free E-solid regular semigroups.
Outlets for operations management research: a DEA assessment of journal quality and rankings

Determining the quality of research outlets is important for Operations Management (OM) for reasons well documented in the published literature. Over the past few decades, utilising several different methodologies from a variety of perspectives, 15 studies have assessed the quality of journals that publish OM research. The published results are inconsistent in that the relative quality of journals varies from one study to the next and no single set of OM journals is unanimously recognised as being the top set. Historically, OM researchers have published in a wide variety of journals, utilised a variety of research methodologies and studied a broad range of topics. Given that each of the 15 studies assessed journal quality from a different perspective and utilised different methodologies, they represent a diversity of opinions regarding the OM field and add to the knowledge base regarding the quality of OM research outlets. In this paper, we combine the published results in a data envelopment analysis (DEA...
A simple method for screening antimicrobial compounds with application to plant disease and fruit quality

Aims: It is often difficult to extrapolate information from a Petri dish and apply it to commercial applications as with antimicrobial assays. Often large volumes of commodities are used for a virtually untested protocol and result in an unnecessary expenditure of time and materials. An intermediate method, where experimental compounds could be tested directly on a specific commodity without expending large quantities of either sample or compound, would be practical and economical. Methods and Results: A method was developed that employs the use of a small experimental chamber in which pieces of natural materials (e.g. fruit) can be tested with antimicrobial compounds. This method uses a type of autoclavable incubation chamber with a filter paper base, hydrating sponge pieces and a sterile glass sample platform. The chamber offers a sterile, controlled environment and can be manipulated to serve a number of studies. Conclusion: The chamber results are more analogous to what happens on whole fruit than the Petri dish. Significance and Impact of the Study: This method is presently used to screen for antimicrobial compounds and treatments needed to control serious economic pests compromising Florida’s agriculture.
Representing actions in logic programs and default theories: A situation calculus approach

Abstract We address the problem of representing common sense knowledge about action domains in the formalisms of logic programming and default logic. We employ a methodology proposed by Gelfond and Lifschitz which involves first defining a high-level language for representing knowledge about actions, and then specifying a translation from the high-level action language into a general-purpose formalism, such as logic programming. Accordingly, we define a high-level action languageAE, and specify sound and complete translations of portions ofAEinto logic programming and default logic. The languageAEincludes propositions that represent “static causal laws” of the following kind: a fluent formula ψ can be made true by making a fluent formula true (or, more precisely, ψ is caused whenever is caused). Such propositions are more expressive than the state constraints traditionally used to represent background knowledge. Our translations ofAEdomain descriptions into logic programming and default logic are simple, in part because the noncontrapositive nature of causal laws is easily reflected in such rule-based formalisms.
Origin of the Uinta recess, Sevier fold–thrust belt, Utah: influence of basin architecture on fold–thrust belt geometry

Abstract Structural trends in the Sevier fold–thrust belt define a pronounced concave-to-the-foreland map-view curve, the Uinta recess, in north-central Utah. This recess separates two convex-to-the-foreland curves, the Provo salient on the south and the Wyoming salient on the north. The two limbs of the recess comprise transverse zones (fault zones at a high-angle to the regional trend of the orogen) that border the flanks of the east–west-trending Uinta/Cottonwood arch. Our structural analysis indicates that the transverse zones formed during the Sevier orogeny, and that they differ markedly from each other in structural style. The Charleston transverse zone (CTZ), on the south side of the arch, initiated as a complex sinistral strike-slip fault system that defines the abrupt northern boundary of the Provo salient. The Mount Raymond transverse zone (MRTZ), on the north side of the arch, represents the region in which the southeast-verging southern limb of the gently curving Wyoming salient was tilted northwards during the Laramide phase of uplift of the Uinta/Cottonwood arch. In effect, the MRTZ represents an oblique cross section through a thrust belt. The contrasting architecture of these transverse zones demonstrates how pre-deformation basin geometry influences the geometry of a fold–thrust belt. Analysis of isopach maps indicates that, at the time the Sevier fold–thrust belt formed, the area just north of the present site of the Uinta/Cottonwood arch was a basement high, with a gently dipping north flank, and a steeply dipping south flank. Thus, predeformational sediment thickened abruptly to the south of the high and thickened gradually to the north of the high. As illustrated by sandbox models, the distance that a fold–thrust belt propagates into the foreland depends on the thickness of the sedimentary layer being deformed, so the shape of the salient mimics the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the sedimentary basin. Where basins taper gradually along strike, the thrust belt curves gently, but where basins taper abruptly along strike, the thrust belt curves so tightly that it disarticulates and becomes bounded laterally by a strike-slip accommodation zone. The geometry of the Uinta recess provides a field example of this concept. Differential movement of Sevier thrusts led to formation of gradually curving thrusts on the north side of the high, because of the gradual slope of the high's north flank, but led to the along-strike disarticulation of thrusts on the south side of the high, because of the steep slope of the high's south flank. In effect, therefore, thrust belt map-view geometry provides insight into predeformational basin geometry.
Generalizations of the FKKM theorem and the Ky Fan minimax inequality, with applications to maximal elements, price equilibrium, and complementarity

Abstract This paper generalizes the Fan-Knaster-Kuratowski-Mazurkiewicz (FKKM) theorem of Ky Fan (“Game Theory and Related Topics,” pp. 151–156, North-Holland, Amsterdam, 1979; and Math. Ann. 266, 1984, 519–537) and the Ky Fan minimax inequality by introducing a class of the generalized closedness and continuity conditions, which are called the transfer closedness and transfer continuities. We then apply these results to prove the existence of maximal elements of binary relations under very weak assumptions. We also prove the existence of price equilibrium and the complementarity problem without the continuity assumptions. Thus our results generalize many of the existence theorems in the literature.
Detection of circulating dna by counterimmunoelectrophoresis (cie)

Using counterimmunoelectrophoresis, DNA may be detected at concentrations as low as 1.5 μ/ml in plasma and 0.2 μg/ml in serum. Serum, however, was not suitable for this study because DNA was sporadically released into serum during the clotting process. Counterimmunoelectrophoresis is at least ten times more sensitive than simple immunodiffusion in the detection of DNA. DNA was found in plasma in a variety of illnesses which are delineated in this study.
Critical magnetic field of superconducting VN thin films

Abstract We have measured the perpendicular critical magnetic field as a function of temperature for a number of thin films of vanadium nitride. This material is of interest because its enhanced magnetic susceptibility implies that strong electron-electron interactions are present which must be taken into account in comparing the theory of high field superconductivity to the measured critical fields.
Coplanar waveguide fed quasi-Yagi antenna

A novel coplanar waveguide fed quasi-Yagi antenna is presented. A wide bandwidth is achieved by using a broadband coplanar waveguide to a slotline balun. An X-band prototype has been realised which demonstrates a broad bandwidth (30%), –19 dB front-to-back ratio, and cross-polarisation better than -17 dB at 10 GHz.
Group A streptococcal toxic shock syndrome associated with pelvic peritonitis following diagnostic hysteroscopy in a healthy woman: a case report and review

We describe a case of group A streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (TSS) associated with pelvic peritonitis, occurring after a diagnostic hysteroscopy and curettage in a healthy woman. At laparotomy, performed to rule out bowel perforation, the diagnosis of pelvic inflammatory disease and pelvic peritonitis was confirmed. Her general condition deteriorated postoperatively needing supportive care in the intensive care unit, followed by gradual recovery. Although it is difficult to avoid a laparotomy in most cases following a surgical procedure, it is important to consider the diagnosis of streptococcal TSS associated with pelvic peritonitis from ascending sepsis in rapid onset, severely shocked cases.
Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: Marked variability of CT findings

Three pathologically proven cases of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) are shown with markedly different computed tomographic (CT) appearances. The first presented as a large enhancing pancreatic mass, a second with diffuse solid large intraperitoneal masses enveloping bowel and mesentery, and a third with predominance of ascites and small peritoneal nodules. In only one patient was there a history of possible asbestos exposure. The CT findings, pathology, and differential diagnosis of MPM are discussed.
Phenyl Migrations in Dehydroaromatic Compounds. A New Mechanistic Link between Alternant and Nonalternant Hydrocarbons at High Temperatures

Flash vacuum pyrolysis of benzo[b]biphenylene, an alternant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), gives fluoranthene, a nonalternant PAH, as the major product at 1100 °C in the gas phase. The most reasonable mechanism to explain this isomerization involves equilibrating diradicals of 2-phenylnaphthalene that rearrange by the net migration of a phenyl group to give equilibrating diradicals of 1-phenylnaphthalene, one isomer of which then cyclizes to fluoranthene.
Genitourinary tumors in men with the Muir-Torre syndrome

The Muir-Torre syndrome is an autosomal dominant genodermatosis characterized by the occurrence of one or more sebaceous gland tumors (either adenoma, epithelioma, or carcinoma) and a single malignant internal neoplasm. To date, 133 cases of Muir-Torre syndrome have been described. Colorectal (49%) and genitourinary (21%) carcinomas are the most common initial neoplasms. The case of a man with a history of recurrent ocular sebaceous carcinoma who subsequently had seminoma is described, and previously published reports of men with Muir-Torre syndrome and genitourinary tumors are discussed. Including this report, an associated genitourinary tumor was the initial malignant internal neoplasm in 11 men with Muir-Torre syndrome. The detection of a genitourinary neoplasm preceded diagnosis of the patient's Muir-Torre syndrome-associated sebaceous gland tumor in five patients (45%). All patients with sebaceous gland tumors of the type associated with Muir-Torre syndrome warrant consideration of Muir-Torre syndrome and appropriate workup to detect asymptomatic malignant visceral neoplasms.
Focal ground-glass opacities in non-small cell lung carcinoma resection patients.

Abstract Purpose To retrospectively determine the frequency, natural progression, radiographic characteristics, and primary cancer cell type of focal ground-glass opacities (GGOs) identified on serial radiographic examinations in patients with prior non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) resection. Methods One thousand three hundred and seventy-nine CT examinations in 154 patients with NSCLC resection between 1997 and 2008 were reviewed by two radiologists to determine the frequency of postoperative focal GGOs. Percentages, imaging characteristics and primary cancer cell types of GGOs that persisted, resolved, or resected were recorded. For persistent GGOs, growth rate was determined. Results Of 154 patients, 67 (44%) developed 174 GGO during a mean follow-up of 2.7 years (standard deviation 2.23 years, range 1 month to 10 years). Of these 174 opacities, 110 (63%) spontaneously resolved within 6 months. Of the remaining 64 lesions, 5 (3%) were resected and 59 (34%) persisted and demonstrated indolent growth with a median annual growth rate of 2.02 mm. Of the 59 persistent GGOs, 41 (69%) were nodularly shaped, 58 (95%) indistinctly marginated, 17 (29%) with pseudocavitation and 25 (42%) contained solid elements. Adenocarcinoma was the original resected cancer in more than half of these lesions (37 of 59, 63%). Conclusions In individuals who have undergone NSCLC resection, approximately 44% will develop focal GGO on follow-up CT examination. A majority of these GGOs will spontaneously resolve by 6 months after initial identification. As most persistent GGOs are indolent, we propose an initial 6-month interval reimaging once postoperative GGOs are detected followed by subsequent annual surveillance.
Test Ban Treaty provides high level of verification, explosion detection capabilities, report notes

The international nuclear test monitoring system of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, or CTBT, provides a high level of confidence to verify treaty compliance and detect nuclear explosions, according to a new report. This is with or without additional U.S. national technical means of verification, the report notes. The high level of confidence assumes the full capability of the international monitoring system, which is currently under construction and will eventually include a global network of 337 sensors and laboratories to detect seismic, infrasound, hydroacoustic, and radionuclide signals.
Psychotic symptoms in pediatric bipolar disorder

Background: There is under-recognition or misdiagnosis of pediatric bipolar disorder with psychotic features. It is of major public health importance to recognize psychosis in bipolar disorder. Method: Original research on phenomenological description of psychosis and external validators including family history, longitudinal course and treatment effects are systematically reviewed. Age differences, sampling, and interview methods of the studies on pediatric bipolar disorder that reported psychotic features are compared. Critical differentiating features between pediatric bipolar disorder and pediatric schizophrenia are summarized given the presence of overlapping psychotic features. Results: Prevalence of psychotic features in pediatric bipolar disorder ranged from 16 to 87.5% based on age and methodological differences. The most common psychotic features are mood congruent delusions, mainly grandiose delusions. Psychotic features appear in the context of affective symptoms in pediatric bipolar disorder as opposed to schizophrenia where psychotic symptoms are independent of them. Family history of affective psychosis aggregated in probands with bipolar disorder. Limitations: There is discrepancy in clinical appraisal of what constitutes psychosis and pediatric bipolar disorder, apart from the differences in methodology and nature of the samples. Conclusion: Clinicians must be vigilant in identifying psychosis in pediatric bipolar disorder, especially when there is a positive family history of psychosis.
Long-Wave Infrared Hyperspectral Remote Sensing of Chemical Clouds: A focus on signal processing approaches

Many military and civilian applications depend on the ability to remotely sense chemical agent (CA) clouds, from detecting small but lethal concentrations of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) to mapping plumes in the aftermath of natural disasters. Hyperspectral imaging sensors, in the long-wave infrared (IR) (LWIR) part of the spectrum, are particularly well suited for these gas-sensing tasks. Their wide fields of view allow many square kilometers to be imaged almost simultaneously, and their high spectral resolutions often allow the detection of chemical clouds even when they are optically thin (or nearly transparent).
Tropical mountains and coal formation: A climate model study of the Westphalian (306 MA)

A global climate model has been used to study the seasonal sensitivity of tropical rainfall and soil moisture to the presence of Himalayan-scale mountains at tropical latitudes during the Westphalian. These mountains act to retard the northward progression of the Intertropical Convergence Zone in their vicinity during the Northern Hemisphere summer such that there is converging low-level flow from both the eastern and western Panthalassa Ocean and an eight-fold enhancement of precipitation over the mountains. The computed annual cycle of soil moisture for these tropical regions concurs with geologic evidence of extensive coal deposits formed in a broad area at tropical latitudes and only small seasonality in either temperature or precipitation in these areas.
αvβ3 Integrins and Pyk2 Mediate Insulin-Like Growth Factor I Activation of Src and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase in 3T3-L1 Cells

IGF-I stimulates cell growth through interaction of the IGF receptor with multiprotein signaling complexes. However, the mechanisms of IGF-I receptor-mediated signaling are not completely understood. We have previously shown that IGF-I-stimulated 3T3-L1 cell proliferation is dependent on Src activation of the ERK-1/2 MAPK pathway. We hypothesized that IGF-I activation of the MAPK pathway is mediated through integrin activation of Src-containing signaling complexes. The disintegrin echistatin decreased IGF-I phosphorylation of Src and MAPK, and blocking antibodies to αv and β3 integrin subunits inhibited IGF-I activation of MAPK, suggesting that αvβ3 integrins mediate IGF-I mitogenic signaling. IGF-I increased ligand binding to αvβ3 as detected by immunofluorescent staining of ligand-induced binding site antibody and stimulated phosphorylation of the β3 subunit, consistent with inside-out activation of αvβ3 integrins. IGF-I increased tyrosine phosphorylation of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) Pyk2 (calcium...
Analysis of binary film boiling

Abstract Binary film boiling has been analyzed on the basis of the conservation laws and other principles. It has been shown that the liquid-vapor interface temperature depends on diffusion phenomena within the liquid mixture. The omission of the diffusion processes in an analysis might lead to erroneous heat-transfer results.
Rapid solution of kriging equations, using a banded Gauss elimination algorithm

A crucial concern when implementing computer algorithms for geostatistical analyses on microcomputers is speed of execution. Kriging, in particular, typically relies on a Gauss elimination algorithm to solve for weights. Because such an alogrithm is required for each estimate, the solution for weights can result in very slow program execution speed on a microcomputer. One approach to enhancing the efficiency of Gauss elimination is demonstrated herein. The upper triangle plus diagonal of the intersample covariance matrix is used in a modified banded Gauss elimination algorithm. Results show that such an algorithm yields approximately a two-fold reduction in execution time for kriging when the number of nearest neighbours used for estimation is large.
Ciprofloxacin and imipenem for Chryseobacterium indologenes presumed meningitis in a preterm neonate

Abstract Chryseobacterium species are a rarely reported cause of meningitis in neonates, but treatment can be difficult as drug resistance is common. This case report describes the management of presumed meningitis using ciprofloxacin and imipenem in a preterm neonate with renal dysfunction and blood cultures positive for Chryseobacterium indologenes . The dosing for both antibiotics was especially challenging due to the lack of available information regarding appropriate dosage adjustment in a patient with these characteristics.
Model reduction of time-varying linear systems using approximate multipoint Krylov-subspace projectors

A method is presented for model reduction of systems described by time varying differential algebraic equations. This method allows automated extraction of reduced models for nonlinear RF blocks, such as mixers and filters, that have a near linear signal path but may contain strongly nonlinear time varying components. The models have the accuracy of a transistor level nonlinear simulation, but are very compact and so can be used in system level simulation and design. The model reduction procedure is based on a multipoint rational approximation algorithm formed by orthogonal projection of the original time varying linear system into an approximate Krylov subspace. The models obtained from the approximate Krylov subspace projector can be obtained much more easily than the exact projectors but show negligible difference in accuracy.
Motivating Factors Associated With Receipt of Asymptomatic Colonoscopy Screening

Background: Colonoscopy is the preferred screening method for colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to identify factors motivating a beneficial health behavior, that is, the decision to complete a colonoscopy. Methods: We surveyed 91 primarily urban minority health care workers who were ineligible for a large randomized controlled trial due to self-reported asymptomatic colonoscopy screening. Participants were asked an open-ended question about what made them get screened. Responses were classified as external or internal motivations. Results: The most commonly reported external motivation was a primary care physician's recommendation (n = 60, 65.9%). Other external motivations were familiarity with CRC or polyps through family or work (n = 16, 17.6%) and pressure from relatives or friends (n = 8, 8.8%). Seventeen respondents were deemed self-motivated; these individuals were more likely have income over $50K/year (P < 0.05) and to be US born (P = 0.05); they were more likely to mention being age-appropriate for screening (P < 0.05); knew more people who had colonoscopies (P < 0.001); they were less likely to believe that most of the age-appropriate population in New York City has been screened (P < 0.01) and less likely to be deterred from colonoscopy by work schedule (P < 0.001) or by having to take a powerful laxative (P < 0.001). Conclusions: A primary care physician's recommendation may be the most prevalent motivating factor in patients' decisions to receive a colonoscopy, but a subgroup seeks CRC screening on their own. Analysis of the motivations of individuals who have sought colonoscopy screening may offer useful insights into motivating those who have not. Keywords: Colon cancer, colonoscopy, screening
Targeted Chemical-Genetic Regulation of Protein Stability In Vivo

Loss- and gain-of-function transgenic models are powerful tools for understanding gene function in vivo but are limited in their ability to determine relative protein requirements. To determine cell-specific, temporal, or dose requirements of complex pathways, new methodology is needed. This is particularly important for deconstructing metabolic pathways that are highly interdependent and cross-regulated. We have combined mouse conditional transgenics and synthetic posttranslational protein stabilization to produce a broadly applicable strategy to regulate protein and pathway function in a cell-autonomous manner in vivo. Here, we show how a targeted chemical-genetic strategy can be used to alter fatty acid metabolism in a reombination and small-molecule-dependent manner in live behaving transgenic mice. This provides a practical, specific, and reversible means of manipulating metabolic pathways in adult mice to provide biological insight.
Juxtacrine function of interleukin-15/interleukin-15 receptor system in tumour derived human B-cell lines

Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine that induces proliferation and promotes cell survival of human T, B and NK cells. IL-15 and interleukin-2 (IL-2) exhibit a similar spectrum of immune effects and share the IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) subunits IL-2Rβ and IL-2Rγc for signalling in haematopoietic cells. Furthermore, each cytokine has a private α receptor, namely IL-2Rα for IL-2 and IL-15Rα for IL-15, that functions in ligand binding. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods, the expression and secretion of IL-15 and IL-15Rα in tumour-derived B-cell lines were studied. The results as presented in this study identify that IL-15 mRNA is predominantly expressed in EBV positive (EBV+) B-cell lines, although IL-15Rα is ubiquitously and constitutively expressed in all these B-cell lines. Although no detectable levels of IL-15 protein secretion were observed in any of these cell lines, we were able to detect membrane-bound expression of IL-15 protein by FACS analysis in some cell lines. These data imply that the IL-15/IL-15R system requires complex regulatory mechanisms for protein secretion. Taken together, we speculate that these results suggest a juxtacrine, intracrine function for IL-15/IL-15R.
Authentic leadership and positive organizational behavior: A meso, multi-level perspective

Abstract Authentic leadership (AL) and positive organizational behavior (POB) are two important emerging approaches in the organizational sciences. To date, published work on AL and POB has been primarily leader-focused and based on individual differences. In this article, after verifying this individual-level focus via content coding of AL articles, AL and POB are explicated and integrated using a meso, multi-level perspective. Essentially, viewed in terms of multiple levels of analysis, AL promotes various multi-level “primary” criteria and outcomes of POB that, in turn, enhances various multi-level “secondary” criteria and outcomes of performance. Direct effects of AL on performance at multiple levels of analysis also are plausible. Implications for future meso perspectives on leadership theory and research in general and on AL and POB in particular are discussed.
A method for improved localization of edges in multi/hyperspectral imagery

We propose an efficient approach for achieving improved localization of edges detected in remotely sensed imagery wherein the improvement is in the localization of the detected edges. This work is based on the notion that the partial derivatives of individual image components used for vector gradient computation often yields thick edges, and consequently optimizing them to only constitute contributions towards their local scalar gradient maxima before being employed in a vector field gradient calculation can yield significantly localized edges in the final edge map. Our approach was tested on several remotely sensed multispectral and hyperspectral datasets with favorable results.
Reduced expression of the Sp4 gene in mice causes deficits in sensorimotor gating and memory associated with hippocampal vacuolization.

Hf-1b/Sp4, a member of the Sp1 family of transcription factors, is expressed restrictively in the developing nervous system and most abundantly in adult hippocampus in mice. Here, we report the generation of hypomorphic Sp4 allele mice, in which the Sp4 deficiency can be rescued by the expression of Cre recombinase. Vacuolization was detected in the hippocampal gray matter of the mutant Sp4-deficient mice. Expression analysis of Sp4 mutant hippocampi revealed an age-dependent decrease in neurotrophin-3 expression in the dentate granule cells. Hypomorphic Sp4 mutant mice displayed robust deficits in both sensorimotor gating and contextual memory. The restoration of Sp4 expression, via a Cre-dependent rescue strategy, completely rescued all the observed molecular, histological and behavioral abnormalities. Our studies thus reveal a novel Sp4 pathway that is essential for hippocampal integrity and modulates behavioral processes relevant to psychiatric disorders.
Sexual responses of the male rat medial preoptic area and medial amygdala to estrogen I: site specific suppression of estrogen receptor alpha.

Abstract Male rat copulation is mediated by estrogen-sensitive neurons in the medial preoptic area (MPO) and medial amygdala (MEA); however, the mechanisms through which estradiol (E2) acts are not fully understood. We hypothesized that E2 acts through estrogen receptor α (ERα) in the MPO and MEA to promote male mating behavior. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODN) complementary to ERα mRNA were bilaterally infused via minipumps into either brain area to block the synthesis of ERα, which we predicted would reduce mating. Western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry revealed a knockdown of ERα expression in each brain region; however, compared to saline controls, males receiving AS-ODN to the MPO showed significant reductions in all components of mating, whereas males receiving AS-ODN to the MEA continued to mate normally. These results suggest that E2 acts differently in these brain regions to promote the expression of male rat sexual behavior and that ERα in the MPO, but not in the MEA, promotes mating.
Influence of secondary aspiration on human aspiration efficiency

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to evaluate the contribution of secondary aspiration to human aspiration efficiency estimates using a humanoid model with realistic facial features. This study applied coefficient of restitution (CoR) values for working-aged human facial skin to the facial regions on the humanoid CFD model. Aspiration efficiencies for particles ranging from 7 to 116 μm were estimated for bounce (allowing for secondary aspiration) and no-bounce (CoR=0) simulations. Fluid simulations used the standard k–epsilon turbulence model over a range of test conditions: three freestream velocities, two breathing modes (mouth and nose breathing, using constant inhalation), three breathing velocities, and five orientations relative to the oncoming wind. Laminar particle trajectory simulations were used to examine inhaled particle transport and estimate aspiration efficiencies. Aspiration efficiency for the realistic CoR simulations, for both mouth- and nose-breathing, decreased with increasing particle size, with aspiration around 50% for 116 μm particles. For the CoR=0 simulations, aspiration decreased more rapidly with increasing particle size and approached zero for 116 μm compared to realistic CoR models (differences ranged from 0% to 80% over the particle sizes and velocity conditions). Differences in aspiration efficiency were larger with increasing particle size (>52 μm) and increased with decreasing freestream velocity and decreasing breathing rate. Secondary aspiration was more important when the humanoid faced the wind, but these contributions to overall aspiration estimates decreased as the humanoid rotated through 90°. There were minimal differences in aspiration between uniform CoR values of 0.5, 0.8, 1.0 and realistic regionally-applied CoR values, indicating differences between mannequin surfaces and between mannequin and human skin will have negligible effect on aspiration for facing-the-wind orientation.
Nanoporous silicon as a bulk energetic material

Nanoporous energetic silicon is a promising new energetic material that can be integrated on-chip using current silicon bulk micromachining techniques. In this paper, we present the characteristics of the nanoenergetic reaction, including energy output, gas generation, and chemical products. The energy output is measured as 9.2kJ/g, more than double that of TNT. The gas generation was measured as 0.019mol/g, about 50% higher than black powder. Finally we demonstrate integration of the nanoporous silicon alongside a MEMS acceleration switch.
FastSLAM 2.0: an improved particle filtering algorithm for simultaneous localization and mapping that provably converges

Proceedings of IJCAI 2003 In [15], Montemerlo et al. proposed an algorithm called FastSLAM as an efficient and robust solution to the simultaneous localization and mapping problem. This paper describes a modified version of FastSLAM which overcomes important deficiencies of the original algorithm. We prove convergence of this new algorithm for linear SLAM problems and provide real-world experimental results that illustrate an order of magnitude improvement in accuracy over the original FastSLAM algorithm.
Ecology of Myotis nigricans (Mammalia: Chiroptera) on Barro Colorado Island, Panama Canal Zone

Myotis nigricans is a small vespertilionid bat limited in distribution to the neotropical zone. These bats are locally abundant in the Panama Canal Zone, and commonly roost in buildings such as the laboratory on Barro Colorado Island where this study was carried out. Homing experiments showed this species to be capable of returning to the roost from distances up to 50 km, but not from 104 km. Night roosting was not observed. Little is known of the food habits of M. nigricans, except that they are insectivorous and probably take some Lepidoptera. The young are left behind in the roost when the females leave to forage at night. Females nurse only their own young and are able to pick them out of a group of 50-100 youngsters upon returning in the mornings. During the day the bats undergo behavioural thermoregulation in the roost. These movements result in a mixing of the sexes which are otherwise segregated inside the roost, and copulation occurs at this time.
The first spark spectrum of gold. Au II

The spark lines of gold have been measured and wave-length data recorded by a number of observes; chief among these are Exner and Haschek, Eder and Valenta, Handke, L. and E. Bloch, R. J. Lang, and Takamine and Nitta. On the basis of their own photograph of the spark spectrum of gold, McLennan and McLay gave the first analysis of Au II. Of the configurations 5 d 9 6 s , 5 d 9 7 s , 5 d 9 6 p , 5 d 9 6 d , and 5 d 8 6 s 2, they have found all the terms resulting from three, while for the 5 d 8 6 s 2 and 5 d 9 6 d configurations only some of terms have fixed. The application of Hund's theory has led to the recognition of the essential regularities in a large number of spectra rich in lines which previously defined analysis. Every new investigation in this field only serves to confirm the view that Hund's theory correctlry predicts the importance features of a spectrum. This is particularly so if, as is usual, research is confined to the strongest lines and the lowest configurations. But when the analysis is sufficiently exhaustive as in the beautiful work of Russell on Ni I, it is seen that there are some levels which, with our present Knowledge cannot be assigned to any electric configuration; and again there are a number of weak lines remaining unclassified, particularly in the extreme ultra-violet and the infra-red. When as many lines as possible have been analysed on the present ideas in a number of spectra, the residuum of unassignable terms and weak lines will have to form the material for fresh developments. Such sonsiderations have prompted the extension of the analysis of the Au II spectrum forming the subject matter of the present paper.
NATIONAL CULTURE AND ABSENTEEISM: AN EMPIRICAL TEST

Absenteeism is a costly behavior that occurs around the world. However, in spite of the growth in cross‐cultural research in organizational research and in global businesses, very few studies have examined absenteeism from a cross‐cultural perspective. This study examined the effect of national culture on absenteeism using a sample of 17,842 respondents from 24 countries. Based on Hofstede's cultural dimensions, we postulated that uncertainty avoidance, power distance, individualism, and masculinity will be negatively related to absenteeism. Similarly, based on the GLOBE cultural dimensions, we proposed that there will be positive relationships between societal collectivism and assertiveness, and absenteeism. However, we hypothesized that in‐group collectivism and gender egalitarianism will have negative relationships with absenteeism. To test our cross‐level hypotheses, we used Hierarchical Linear Modeling. Our results indicated that with the exception of uncertainty avoidance and assertiveness, all our hypothesized relationships were supported. Consistent findings were obtained for the common elements of both the Hofstede and GLOBE cultural dimensions, demonstrating convergence of our findings. We offer theoretical and practical implications of our study and suggest future research directions in the culture‐absenteeism link
Path planning in time dependent flow fields using level set methods

We develop and illustrate an efficient but rigorous methodology that predicts the time-optimal paths of ocean vehicles in continuous dynamic flows. The goal is to best utilize or avoid currents, without limitation on these currents or on the number of vehicles. The methodology employs a new modified level set equation to evolve a front from the starting point of a vehicle until it reaches the desired goal location, combining flow advection with nominal vehicle motion. The optimal path of the vehicle is then obtained by solving a particle tracking equation backward in time. The computational cost of this method increases linearly with the number of vehicles and geometrically with spatial dimensions. The methodology is applicable to any continuous flow and in scenarios with multiple vehicles. Present illustrations consist of the crossing of a canonical uniform jet and its validation using a classic optimization solution, as well as swarm formation in more complex time varying 2D flow fields, including jets, eddies and forbidden regions.
Spinning Tales from the World Wide Web: Qualitative Research in an Electronic Environment:

How do you learn about the texture of life from children with medical problems, and how do you translate their narratives into a web site for all to read? This article attempts to answer those questions. It describes the process of using qualitative research strategies to gather data for a Web-based project, "Band-Aides and Blackboards: When Chronic Illness, or Some Other Medical Problem Goes to School." The article discusses the rationale for using the Internet as a forum for collecting data and explores the advantages and disadvantages of its use. In addition to the Internet, focus groups and individual interviews were identified as rich sources of stories from children with serious health problems, and the article examines their utility. In addition, it details the process of publicizing an invitation, attracting children, and acquiring parental permission for their inclusion. The text takes a look at the barriers that were encountered along the route and addresses each of them, describing as it does t...
Hybrid Proton-Carrier Polymer Composites for High-Temperature FCPEM Applications

Hybrid proton-carrier polymer composites were fabricated in an effort to develop high-performance high-temperature proton exchange membranes (PEMs) for fuel cell applications in the 100°–200°C range. The solution-cast hybrid membranes comprise a polymer host and a SiO2-based proton-carrier composite that was synthesized via sol gel approach using a functional silane and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in acidic conditions. The primary H+-carrying component was either a heteropoly silicotungstic acid (STA) or a sulfonic acid (SFA) that was thermooxidatively converted from a mercapto (-SH) group. The embedding level of STA on the silane-modified SiO2 sol gel composites was strongly affected by the presence and the functional group of the silane. Ion exchange capacity (IEC) of the water-washed, SiO2-based STA and SFA proton-carrier composite powders is in the range of 1.8–3.5 mmol/g, two to three times higher than that for Nafion 117 (0.9 meq/mol). A glycidylmethacrylate-type copolymer, PEMAGMA, which is stable up to ∼225°C, was able to produce mechanically robust and flexible hybrid membranes. Upon curing, the PEMAGMA composite membranes showed a ∼75% gel under the present formulation and retained the "free" STA effectively with slight loss when extracted in an 85°C water. The W12-STA-containing PEMAGMA membranes followed the weight loss trends of water from STA and the SiO2-based sol gel composite, showing a 10 wt% loss at 150°C and a 15 wt% loss at 225°C. Fuel cell performance tests of the preliminary films gave a Voc in the 0.85–0.93 V range, but a low current density of <4 mA/cm2. The resistive characteristics were attributed to inhomogeneous distribution of the sol gel nanoparticles in the PEMAGMA matrix, a result of phase separation and particulate agglomeration during film forming.
The Evolution of Radical Cancer Surgery

This issue of the Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America has as its Guest Editor Marvin J. Lopez, MD. I can’t think of a more experienced individual to be the Guest Editor for an issue entitled ‘‘The Evolution of Radical Cancer Surgery.’’ Dr. Lopez’ experience in this area of oncology is recognized internationally. Just as importantly, he has successfully invited senior authors chosen particularly for their recognized experience in their respective fields of surgical oncology. Each of the authors in this issue presents a historical perspective of radical surgery in the past and in its current role, both alone and as part of the multidisciplinary team approach to many of the solid tumors discussed. The theme of this issue is best described by Dr. Lopez in his preface when he states that ‘‘We must prepare future generations of surgeons to recognize the importance of obtaining cancer-free surgical resection margins and adequate lymphadenectomy, while avoiding violating or rupturing cancerbearing organs and disrupting regional lymphatics in close proximity to the target organ.’’ This type of experience along with the knowledge of the role of the radiation and medical oncologist is what separates the surgical oncologist from the general surgeon. Surgical oncology fellows and residents will benefit tremendously from this issue. Radical surgery in head and neck, pancreatic, and gastric cancer are only a few of the topics described in this issue. Of course, the article on pelvic exenteration written by Dr. Lopez is outstanding and is a must-read for residents and fellows. Nicholas J. Petrelli, MD
Sanuma Memories: Yanomami Ethnography in Times of Crisis

Sanuma Memories: Yanomami Ethnography in Times of Crisis. Alcida Rita Ramos. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1995. xx. 346 pp., notes, index.
High affinity nuclear and nongenomic estradiol binding sites in the human and mouse lens.

Abstract Estrogen is reported to be protective against cataracts in women and animal models. Immunodetection methods have identified the classic estrogen receptors (ER), ERα and ERβ, in human lens epithelial cells and their RNAs have been detected in the rat and human lens. To verify that estrogen binding occurs in the lens, sensitive [ 125 I]-17β-estradiol binding analyses were performed on subcellular lens fractions from women (ages 39–78 years). The presence of high affinity estradiol binding sites in the nuclear, cytoplasmic, and membrane fractions indicate the lens is able to respond to estrogens, even up to age 78, although fewer binding sites were detected in the postmenopausal women. Additionally, due to the importance of mouse models in estrogen action and lens research, lenses from intact female mice were also analyzed. Both the C57BL/6 and FVB/N mouse strains also possessed high affinity binding sites in all three lens fractions. Furthermore, transcripts for ERα, ERβ, and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER; previously called GPR30) that bind estradiol with high affinity were expressed in the human and mouse lenses. These data provide the first evidence of GPER expression in the lens. Its role, functions, and subcellular location are currently unknown, but a G-shift assay in the membrane fractions of human and mouse lenses did not show evidence that estradiol induced classic G protein-coupled receptor activation. All three receptor transcripts were also detected in the lens capsule region isolated from female C57BL/6 mice, which is mainly comprised of epithelial cells. In contrast, only ERα and GPER were expressed in the cortex/nuclear region, which is primarily composed of differentiating and organelle-free fiber cells. No significant differences in specific estradiol binding and receptor RNA expression were observed in the lenses between male and female C57BL/6 mice. These findings indicate that the lens is an estrogen target tissue in both sexes. The identification of GPER, in addition to ERα and ERβ, in the lens also adds to the complexity of possible estrogen responses in the lens. Accordingly, the protective effects of estrogen in women and animals may be mediated by all three estrogen receptors in the lens. In addition, the similarities in binding and receptor RNA expression in the lenses of both species suggest that mice can be used to model estrogen action in the human lens.
Control of piece-wise linear systems with piece-wise linear controls

A pole-placement approach is described for piece-wise linear systems. It is shown that if the resulting piecewise linear control achieves local stability then it also achieves global stability. This property holds for piece-wise linear controls whether based on state feedback or on dynamic output feedback. Observer based designs and low-order controllers based on projective controls are discussed.