cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analytical Predictions and Measurements of the Noise Radiated from Supersonic Coaxial Jets

The noise radiated from perfectly expanded coaxial jets was measured in an anechoic chamber for operating conditions with the same total mass flow and thrust and with the same temperature ratio. The shape of the measured noise spectrum at different angles to the jet axis was found to agree with spectral shapes for single, axisymmetric jets. Based on these spectra, the sound was characterized as being generated by large-scale turbulent structures or fine-scale turbulence. Modeling the large-scale structures as instability waves, a stability analysis was conducted for the coaxial jets to identify the growing and decaying instability waves in each shear layer and to predict their noise radiation pattern outside the jet. When compared to measured directivity, the analysis identified the region downstream of the outer potential core, where the two shear layers were merging, as the source of the peak radiated noise where instability waves, with their origin in the inner shear layer, reach their maximum amplitude. The changes in the measured noise directivity that occurred when the operating conditions were changed, holding mass flow and thrust constant, followed the trend predicted by the instability wave analysis.
Unusual topography of bovine rhodopsin promoter-IacZ fusion gene expression in transgenic mouse retinas

Abstract To define the cis-acting DNA elements required for rhodopsin expression, we generated lines of transgenic mice carrying sequences upstream of the bovine rhodopsin gene fused to the E. coli β-galactosidase gene ( IacZ ). Upstream sequences extending from −2174 to +70 bp, from −734 to +70 bp, and from −222 to +70 by direct photoreceptor-specific expression. All three −2174 lines demonstrate a superior-temporal to inferior-nasal gradient of expression across the retina, whereas lines carrying the shorter constructs demonstrate either spatially continuous expression across the retina, discrete clusters of expression, or both. As a complementary approach to defining regulatory elements, we compared DNA sequences 5′ of the murine, bovine, and human rhodopsin genes. Significant homology between all three species was found just upstream of the transcription start site and at approximately 1.5 kb upstream.
Optimal State Management of Data Sharing in Online Social Network (OSN) Services

Although Online Social Network (OSN) services offer users a variety of benefits, they also bring new threats and privacy issues to the community. In this paper, we first define the data types in OSN services and the states of shared data with respect to Optimal, Under-shared, Over-shared, and Hybrid states. We also identify the facilitating, detracting, and preventive parameters that are responsible for the state transition of the data. We address that, in a reliable OSN service, a user should be able to set up his or her desired level of information sharing with a certain group of other users. However, it is not always clear to the ordinary users how to decide how much information they should reveal to others. Therefore, we propose an approach for helping OSN users determine their optimum levels of information sharing, taking into consideration the payoffs (potential Reward or Cost) based on the Markov decision process (MDP).
Growth hormone synthesis by rat pituitaries in vitro: effect of age and sex.

Growth hormone synthesis by individual rat anterior hemipituitaries in vitro was studied by determining the incorporation of 3H-leucine. A specific and sensitive immunoprecipitation technique was used for the isolation of growth hormone from pituitary extracts and from media. Growth hormone content of the samples was determined by radioimmunoassay, permitting the calculation of growth hormone specific activity. Tritiated growth hormone was first detected at 30 min in pituitary tissue and synthesis was found to be linear over a 6-hr period. No labeled growth hormone appeared in the media until after 3 hr. By 6 hr less than 5% of the newly synthesized growth hormone was secreted into the media. The rate of growth hormone synthesis by adult male pituitaries was 2-3 times greater than that of adult female pituitaries despite equal growth hormone content or concentration. Male and female weanling pituitaries demonstrated little difference in growth hormone synthesis rates. Progressive increases in growth hormo...
Improved outcomes in the treatment of gastroschisis using a preformed silo and delayed repair approach

Abstract Background/Purpose: The aim of this study was to critically evaluate the clinical outcomes of two different surgical treatment approaches for infants born with gastroschisis. Methods: The medical records of 65 infants with gastroschisis treated at one institution from 1991 to 2000 were available. Infants in group I (prior to December 1998) underwent attempted early repair of the gastroschisis defect on their first day of life. Infants in group II had delayed repair after the initial placement of a preformed silo. Results: Group I had 39 patients; group II had 26 patients. The two groups were equal with respect to maternal age, gestational age, and birth weight. Complete reduction and fascial closure were accomplished for 32 patients (82%) in group I and 25 patients (96%) in group II ( P P P P v 56%; P Conclusions: The use of a preformed silo initially followed by delayed fascial closure in infants with gastroschisis is associated with improved fascial closure rates, fewer ventilator days, more rapid return of bowel function, and fewer complications compared with attempts at initial early repair. J Pediatr Surg 38:459-464. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Temporal constancy in grasshopper assemblies (Orthoptera: Acrididae)

. 1 Temporal constancy in the structure of grasshopper assemblies (about forty-five species each) from two types of North American grasslands was assessed; one site was followed 25 years and the other 7 years. 2 Densities and relative abundances varied but composition of assemblies based on ranks suggested significant structure when three or more species were included in the analysis. 3 Results compared favourably with other insect herbivore assemblies which have been examined; variability in population change was intermediate along the spectrum of organisms which have been studied.
BRAF V600E mutation and papillary thyroid cancer.

To the Editor Our recent multicenter study1 reported an association between BRAF V600E and PTC-related patient mortality. However, this association was not independent of tumor behaviors and the prognostic value of BRAF V600E was debated in an accompanying Editorial.2 This issue warrants further discussion in several aspects. First, the synergistic interaction between BRAF V600E and tumor behaviors demonstrated in our study1 suggests that BRAF V600E promotes aggressive tumor behaviors to exert its effect on mortality. Thus, multivariable analyses adjusting for tumor behaviors would artificially nullify the association between BRAF V600E and mortality, underestimating its prognostic value. Second, the strong synergism between BRAF V600E and patient age in affecting PTC mortality demonstrated in our study1 not only represents a unique mechanism of BRAF V600E in affecting mortality, as the Editorial2 pointed out, but is also a reason for the attenuation of the significance of BRAF V600E when the multivariable model included patient age. Adjusting for patient age underestimates the incremental prognostic value of BRAF V600E when its status can in fact distinguish patients of similar age into higher- and lower-risk groups. Third, contrary to the statement in the Editorial,2 our study supports the position that prognostic BRAF V600E testing should be performed in conventionally low-risk patients with PTC. Our study1 demonstrated that in the BRAF mutation-negative and conventionally low-risk patients, particularly in patients with conventional PTC, mortality was virtually zero, whereas a few deaths did occur in the BRAF mutation-positive patients. This high negative predictive value of BRAF V600E for mortality is consistent with the high negative predictive value of BRAF V600E for PTC recurrence,3,4 particularly in conventionally low-risk patients.4 How to manage low-risk PTC has been debated and over-treatment of these patients is common. With this high negative predictive value, testing for BRAF V600E would help identify many mutation-negative patients who could be considered for conservative management.
Neutron absolute and total cross section difference measurements in the mass-140 region

We have used a 100-MeV electron linac and neutron time-of-flight facility to measure precise neutron total cross sections in the mass-140 region for incident neutron energies of 3-60 MeV. We measured the absolute neutron total cross section of $^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ and the total cross section differences of $^{139}\mathrm{La}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$, $^{141}\mathrm{Pr}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$, and $^{142}\mathrm{Ce}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$. These cross section differences oscillate with energy. Optical model calculations have been performed which fit the $^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ total cross section well over the 3-60 MeV energy region. The $^{139}\mathrm{La}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ and $^{141}\mathrm{Pr}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ difference data were satisfactorily fit by small changes in the geometrical parameters of the potential. The $^{142}\mathrm{Ce}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ data could not be fit by small changes in the geometry of the potential and we found that the changes required to achieve a satisfactory fit suggest that $^{142}\mathrm{Ce}$ is either nonspherical or more easily deformed than $^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$. Using our final optical model parameters we calculated $\ensuremath{\delta}({r}^{2})=^{A}〈{r}^{2}〉\ensuremath{-}^{140}〈{r}^{2}〉$ for the real part of the potential. The $^{139}\mathrm{La}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ and $^{141}\mathrm{Pr}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ optical model values of $\ensuremath{\delta}({r}^{2})$ were in agreement with corresponding $\ensuremath{\delta}{({r}^{2})}_{q}$ values calculated using muonic x-ray data. The value for $^{142}\mathrm{Ce}$-$^{140}\mathrm{Ce}$ was not.
Age and gender differences in hepatic ascorbic acid concentrations and NADPH-dehydroascorbic acid reductase activity

Ascorbic acid content decreased with age in livers of male rats but not in those of female rats. The influence of aging on the regeneration of ascorbic acid from dehydroascorbic acid was investigated as a possible cause of declining ascorbate concentrations. The results demonstrate that hepatic NADPH-dehydroascorbic acid reductase activity is unaffected by aging.
Shock models with MIFRA time to failure distributions

Abstract It is shown that a wear process with a general state space obtained from a fairly general shock model is a strongly IFRA process. The main result of this paper generalizes results of Marshall and Shaked (1979) and of Savits and Shaked (1981). Some application to multivariate cumulative shock models, and to shock models with underlying birth process, are given.
Investigation of ethylene oxide oligomerization during functionalization of poly(styryl)lithium using MALDI-TOF MS and NMR

The amount of ethylene oxide oligomerization for functionalization of poly(styryl)lithium in benzene at 25 °C has been determined using MALDI−TOF MS and 1H and 13C NMR. Chemically insignificant amounts of oligomer were found using 4 equiv of ethylene oxide ([EO]/[PLi]) after 12 h. For reactions times ranging from 12 h to 4 weeks using 10 equiv of ethylene oxide, the corresponding amounts of dimeric oligomerization varied from 4% to 34%. Trimeric oligomerization of ethylene oxide was detected after 1 week (1%) and 4 weeks (4%) by MALDI−TOF MS. The quantitative results from MALDI−TOF MS were in good agreement with results from both 1H and 13C NMR analyses. The quantitative aspects of MALDI−TOF MS compared to 1H and 13C NMR for the determination of the amount of EO oligomerization have been established through the synthesis and characterization of the model dimeric oligomer product, ω-(2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethyl)polystyrene.
Cyclic deformation behaviour of Cu-16at.%Al single crystals I: Strain burst behavior

Abstract In order to investigate strain burst behavior of planar slip materials, single crystals of Cu-15.3at.%Al alloys, oriented for easy glide, were cyclically deformed under load and strain control. A huge strain burst ( γ p = 0.12) observed in a load-controlled fatigue test is related to easy-glide behavior after yielding. Strain bursts under strain control proceeded through the crystal in a stepwise manner because the total strain is strictly controlled by a closed-loop system. The experimental observation that each strain burst is accompanied by the sudden appearance of a slip band indicates that they are caused by a sudden activation of dislocation sources. Strain burst behavior at various strain amplitudes is also discussed in relation to deformation behavior in load-controlled fatigue tests and monotonic tests. A positive asymmetry (a higher stress in tension) in this study is caused by strain bursts occurring more frequently and more easily during compression-behaviour which results from easier cross-slip and a higher mobility of dislocations during compression.
Spin separation in digital ferromagnetic heterostructures

In a study of the ferromagnetic phase of a multilayer digital ferromagnetic semiconductor in the mean-field and effective-mass approximations, we find the exchange interaction to have the dominant energy scale of the problem, effectively controlling the spatial distribution of the carrier spins in the digital ferromagnetic heterostructures. In the ferromagnetic phase, the majority-spin and minority-spin carriers tend to be in different regions of the space (spin separation). Hence, the charge distribution of carriers also changes noticeably from the ferromagnetic to the paramagnetic phase. An example of a design to exploit these phenomena is given here.
Walljet Electrochemistry: Quantifying Molecular Transport through Metallopolymeric and Zirconium Phosphonate Assembled Porphyrin Square Thin Films

By employing redox-active probes, condensed-phase molecular transport through nanoporous thin films can often be measured electrochemically. Certain kinds of electrode materials (e.g. conductive glass) are difficult to fabricate as rotatable disks or as ultramicroelectrodesthe configurations most often used for electrochemical permeation measurements. These limitations point to the need for a more materials-general measurement method. Herein, we report the application of walljet electrochemistry to the study of molecular transport through model metallopolymeric films on indium tin oxide electrodes. A quantitative expression is presented that describes the transport-limited current at the walljet electrode in terms of mass transport through solution and permeation through the film phase. A comparison of the film permeabilities for a series of redox probes measured using the walljet electrode and a rotating disk electrode establishes the accuracy of the walljet method, while also demonstrating similar preci...
Hierarchical vector quantization of speech with dynamic codebook allocation

This paper introduces a Hierarchical Vector Quantization (HVQ) scheme that can operate on "supervectors" of dimensionality in the hundreds of samples. HVQ is based on a tree-structured decomposition of the original super-vector into a large number of low dimensional vectors. The supervector is partitioned into subvectors, the subvectors into minivectors and so on. The "glue" that links subvectors at one level to the parent vector at the next higher level is a feature vector that characterizes the correlation pattern of the parent vector and controls the quantization of lower level feature vectors and ultimately of the final descendant data vectors. Each component of a feature vector is a scalar parameter that partially describes a corresponding subvector. The paper presents a three level HVQ for which the feature vectors are based on subvector energies. Gain normalization and dynamic codebook allocation are used in coding both feature vectors and the final data subvectors. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of HVQ for speech waveform coding at 9.6 and 16 Kb/s.
Trendelenburg's Classic Work on the Operative Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

The experimental and clinical observations of Trendelenburg in the operative treatment of pulmonary embolism represent a landmark in the history of surgery. The original reports of his carefully planned and performed studies in the experimental laboratory are reviewed, along with the unusually cogent clinical descriptions of this master surgeon. Trendelenburg's impressive grasp of the fundamental aspects of the pathophysiology of pulmonary embolism emphasizes the importance of a close analysis of the original communications in order to appreciate these facts fully.
Character of magnetic instabilities in CaFe2As2

The density-functional spin susceptibility has been analyzed in different phases of CaFe{sub 2}As{sub 2} and compared with similar data for pure d metals. The conditions for the 'no local-moment' itinerant state with large frustrations are found for the 'collapsed' phase. This itineracy determines the instability versus the incommensurate magnetic order for the narrow region of wave vectors. For the ambient pressure phase, the local moments on Fe atoms with much less frustrated antiferromagnetic interactions are stabilized and a magnetic short-range or long-range order is developed. The system is close to the point of magnetic instability and spin fluctuations should be included to describe properties of this system.
E-selectin binds to squamous cell carcinoma and keratinocyte cell lines.

E-selectin is an endothelial adhesion molecule that binds carbohydrate epitopes on leukocytes and has been implicated in a potential pathway of tumor metastasis. Keratinocyte cell lines express similar carbohydrate epitopes, one of which, sialyl Lewis X (SL-X) is a ligand for E-selectin and is also expressed by squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) in situ . The functional role of keratinocyte selectin ligands was investigated using a soluble E-selectin chimeric protein (pE-sel Ig) containing pig lectin-like and epidermal growth factor-like domains fused to human IgG. After incubation of keratinocyte cell lines (A431 and SVK14) and normal keratinocytes with pE-sel Ig. binding was quantified by flow cytometry. Frozen sections of SCC were overlaid with pE-sel Ig and binding was visualized immunoenzymatically. Immunolabeling was undertaken using monoclonal antibodies (CSLEX-1 and HECA-452), which label E-selectin ligands including sialyl Lewis X. E-selectin bound strongly to A431 and SVK14 cells; the degree of binding paralleled staining intensity with CSLEX-1 antibody. HECA-452 antibody stained A431 cells strongly but SVK14 cells only weakly. Normal keratinocytes and normal epidermis did not express CSLEX-1 or HECA-452 antigens or bind E-selectin. Serial sections of SCC revealed close correlation between fusion protein binding and antibody staining. Antibody pretreatment of tumor sections with CSLEX-1 blocked fusion protein binding, whereas HECA-452 antibody only slightly reduced fusion protein binding. pE-sel Ig pretreated with YT11.1 anti-body failed to bind to A431 or SVK14 cells or to SCC. These studies provide functional evidence that SL-X/E-selectin pathways may be important in SCC metastasis and that A431 and SVK14 cells provide a good model to investigate these mechanisms.
HTK preservative solution is associated with increased biliary complications among patients receiving DCD liver transplants: A single center experience

Summary Background: This study compares biliary complication rates associated with use of two different preservative solutions, Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate (HTK) and University of Wisconsin (UW), utilized in orthotopic liver transplantation (LT) with donations after cardiac death (DCDs). Material/Methods: Between 1997–2010, we retrospectively studied 35 LTs performed utilizing DCD donors, preserved either with HTK (n=17) or UW(n=18). Biliary complications were defined by the presence of anastomotic strictures, non-anastomotic strictures, and/or biliary leak on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Results: HTK and UW cohorts were similar in terms of demographics as well as pre- and post-operative biochemical profile. Donor age was significantly higher among HTK compared to UW recipients (41.5±11.9 vs. 26.2±8.8 years, p<0.001). The incidence of post-LT biliary complications was higher in the HTK group (76% vs. 39% in UW group, p=0.041). Hepatic arterial thrombosis (HAT) was observed among 3 HTK patients (17.7%) and 1 UW patient (5.6%), p=0.33. No patients underwent retransplantation in UW group, five recipients in HTK group underwent retransplantation (29%), p=0.019; 4 due to biliary complications and 1 due to HAT. Coclucions: This single-center study reveals that the use of HTK preservative among DCD donors is associated with an increased risk of biliary complications. Multicenter retrospective studies are suggested to further verify this observation.
Common Path Interferometer Using Optically Induced Molecular Reorientation In Liquid Crystals

Optically induced molecular reorientation in nematic liquid crystals has been used to obtain a common path interferometer for measuring aberrations of the incident beam. When a strong laser beam is focussed onto homeotropically aligned liquid crystals, it produces above a threshold value, a molecular distortion, the profile of which depends upon the point spread function of the incident beam. The strong zero spatial frequency component creates a highly distorted centre due to the crystal birefringence producing a diverging spherical reference wavefront. This interferes with the directly transmitted aberrated wavefront producing fringes in the same way as in the point-diffraction interferometer. This interference phenomenon occurs in the extraordinary wave and resulting fringes represent directly the thickness contours of the incident wave.
SAFETY AND IMMUNOGENECITY OF THE VARICELLA VACCINE(VARIVAX®) IN CHILDREN WITH NEPHROTIC SYNDROME (NS). 2190

SAFETY AND IMMUNOGENECITY OF THE VARICELLA VACCINE(VARIVAX®) IN CHILDREN WITH NEPHROTIC SYNDROME (NS). 2190
PRIOPS: A REAL-TIME PRODUCTION SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE FOR PROGRAMMING AND LEARNING IN EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

The Prioritized Production System (PRIOPS) is an architecture that supports time-constrained, knowledge-based embedded system programming and learning. Inspired by the theory of automatic and controlled human information processing in cognitive psychology, PRIOPS supports a two-tiered processing approach. The automatic partition provides for compilation of productions into constant-time-constrained processes for reaction to environmental conditions. The notion of a habit in humans approximates the concept of automatic processing trading flexibility and generality for efficiency and predictability in dealing with expected environmental situations. Explicit priorities allow critical automatic activities to pre-empt and defer execution of lower priority processing. An augmented version of the Rete match algorithm implements O(1), priority-scheduled automatic matching. The controlled partition supports more complex, less predictable activities such as problem solving, planning, and learning that apply in novel situations for which automatic reactions do not exist. The PRIOPS notation allows the programmer of knowledge-based embedded systems to work at a more appropriate level of abstraction than is provided by conventional embedded system programming techniques. This paper explores programming and learning in PRIOPS in the context of a maze traversal program.
Targeted Expression of Placental Lactogen in the Beta Cells of Transgenic Mice Results in Beta Cell Proliferation, Islet Mass Augmentation, and Hypoglycemia

The factors that regulate pancreatic beta cell proliferation are not well defined. In order to explore the role of murine placental lactogen (PL)-I (mPL-I) in islet mass regulation in vivo, we developed transgenic mice in which mPL-I is targeted to the beta cell using the rat insulin II promoter. Rat insulin II-mPL-I mice displayed both fasting and postprandial hypoglycemia (71 and 105 mg/dl, respectively) as compared with normal mice (92 and 129 mg/dl; p < 0.00005 for both). Plasma insulin concentrations were inappropriately elevated, and insulin content in the pancreas was increased 2-fold. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by perifused islets was indistinguishable from controls at 7.5, 15, and 20 mm glucose. Beta cell proliferation rates were twice normal (p = 0. 0005). This hyperplasia, together with a 20% increase in beta cell size, resulted in a 2-fold increase in islet mass (p = 0.0005) and a 1.45-fold increase in islet number (p = 0.0012). In mice, murine PL-I is a potent islet mitogen, is capable of increasing islet mass, and is associated with hypoglycemia over the long term. It can be targeted to the beta cell using standard gene targeting techniques. Potential exists for beta cell engineering using this strategy.
Leader and maximum independence for a class of discrete choice models

Abstract For an entire class of multivariate distributions corresponding to a random vector, the maximum value of the components of the random vector is independent of the leader , which is the index of the maximal component of the random vector. This class includes the Generalised Extreme Value (GEV) models and the Generalised Logit Models (GLM) often employed in discrete choice analyses.
The economics of AIDS-related health insurance regulations: interest group influence and ideology.

The projected growth in the U.S. in the number of persons with AIDS has created concern about sources of financing the costs of health care services for persons with AIDS. Private health insurers have modified or considered modifying underwriting practices in response to the AIDS epidemic, but several state governments have developed significant regulatory constraints on AIDS-related underwriting practices. We model the state government's decision to impose AIDS-related regulatory constraints (HIV testing restrictions, restrictions on the use of information about sexual orientation, and mandated AIDS coverage). We find that HIV-testing restrictions tend to be more likely in states with relatively high AIDS prevalence rates and insurance industries that are relatively weak politically. States with prevailing attitudes favorable to persons with AIDS (i.e., relatively liberal states) are more likely than other states to impose HIV-testing restrictions. Measures of prevailing attitudes (ideology) appear to be the primary determinants of regulations prohibiting questions about sexual orientation, but economic interests are the primary determinants of mandated AIDS coverage.
Effects of endothelin in the systemic and renal vascular beds in vivo

The effects of intravenous (i.v.) and intrarenal (i.a.) injections of endothelin on systemic and renal vascular resistances were investigated. I.v. bolus injection of endothelin, 300 ng, decreased systemic arterial pressure and renal perfusion pressure. This systemic vasodilator response to endothelin i.v. was dose-related at the 100, 300 and 1000 ng doses. I.a. injection of endothelin, 10 and 30 ng, decreased renal perfusion pressure. In contrast, endothelin, 100 ng into the renal arteries, produced a biphasic response and higher doses, 300 and 1000 ng, increased renal perfusion pressure. Although endothelin was initially reported as an endothelial-derived peptide with vasoconstrictor properties, the present data suggest that the physiologic effect of this peptide may be vasodilation
Kinetics and product studies of the reaction of Br, Cl, and NO with ClOOCl using discharge-flow mass spectrometry

The kinetics of the reactions Cl + ClOOCl → products (5), Br + ClOOCl → products (7), and NO + ClOOCl → products (8) have been studied as a function of temperature at 1 Torr total pressure using a discharge-flow mass spectrometric technique. The measured rate coefficients, expressed in Arrhenius form, are k5 = (7.60 ± 0.56) × 10−11exp((65.4 ± 17.9)/T) cm3 s−1 for 217 K < T < 298 K, and k7 = (5.88 ± 0.50) × 10−12 exp(−173 ± 20/T) cm3 s−1 for 223 K 90% yield from the ClO self-reaction. No evidence for the formation of ClOClO and ClClO2 was observed. No reaction between NO and ClOOCl was observed and an upper limit of k8 < 1 × 10−15 cm3 s−1 for 220 K < T< 298 K was determined.
Laparo-endoscopic transgastric resection of gastric submucosal tumors

Background Laparoscopic and endoluminal surgical techniques have evolved and allowed improvements in the methods for treating benign and malignant gastrointestinal diseases. To date, only case reports have been reported on the application of a laparo-endoscopic approach for resecting gastric submucosal tumors (SMT). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and oncologic outcomes of a laparo-endoscopic transgastric approach to resect tumors that would traditionally require either a laparoscopic or open surgical approach. Herein, we present the largest single institution series utilizing this technique for the resection of gastric SMT in North America.
Context Specificity in Performance - The Defining Problem for Human Factors/Ergonomics

This report addresses what I believe represents the major unresolved problem confronting the field of human factors/ergonomics (HF/E): context—also termed design—specificity in human behavior and performance. Context specificity implies an intimate interaction, or coupling, between performance and design. The problem of context specificity in performance can be framed in terms of: (1) the difficulties it poses for basic and applied research in HF/E; (2) its relevance to social and organizational performance; (3) underlying neurobehavioral mechanisms; and (4) validity of models of human behavior and performance. Questions addressing these different problem areas are introduced, followed by a series of strategies and conclusions directed at problem resolution. The conceptual perspective adopted here for understanding context specificity is that of behavioral cybernetics, which assumes that task-specific variance in performance occurs as an inevitable consequence of dynamic spatiotemporal feedback interactio...
Modeling the interaction of physiological time, seasonal weather patterns, and delayed mating on population dynamics of codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

The effect of delaying female mating on population growth in codling moth (Cydia pomonella (L.)) was found to act on a physiological time (degree-day) basis and was predictable using a simple quadratic equation. When combined with previous work on degree-day based mortality, we were able to evaluate how the magnitude of population reduction and survival varied between sites, years, and generations at locations in California, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Washington states. In general, reductions in population growth associated with females mating 1–3 days after emergence were greater in warmer areas and during warmer times of the year. In any given year and location, the temperature profiles during peak flight were crucial in determining the population reductions, but over an 11-year period, the average seasonal temperature profile was more important. During the overwintering generation, conditions were relatively mild in all locations and only minor differences were observed in population growth rates between locations. Populations experiencing 1–3 days delay in female mating were reduced 8, 19 and 32 % compared to populations experiencing no delay, respectively. During the first summer generation, population reductions doubled compared to those seen in the overwintering generation. During the second summer flight, reductions in population growth rate at the three cooler locations decreased, while they increased in the warmer California location. Overall, the results show delayed mating can help understand how population growth is related to environmental conditions experienced naturally by insect populations and will help guide studies of the mechanisms of mating disruption, a technique used for pest suppression in agricultural and forest systems.
On Verdier's specialization formula for Chern classes

Let M be a complex manifold of complex dimension m, and let X C M be a proper analytic subvariety. Let D C ~ be the unit disk, and f : X ~ D a proper analytic morphism. Put X~: = f l(s), s e D. We know that, for r > 0 sufficiently small, the inclusion Xo C f I(D,) is a homotopy equivalence. Thus for small nonzero s e D we may define the specialization map on homology a. :H,(X~)~H.(Xo) as the composition ~, H,(X~) , H , ( f I(D,)) ~ n,(Xo).
Organizational Rhetoric and the Public Sphere.

Both Weick's view of organizing and traditional rhetorical theory straddle the public and private spheres of human activity. In the essay, these two bodies of theory are used to explore how private organizations need public space within them, how organizations affect the public sphere and are affected by that sense of public, and how organizational and rhetorical theorists might join in understanding the “privatizing” of the public sphere by managerial rhetors.
Noninvasive Method of Estimating Human Newborn Regional Cerebral Blood Flow

A noninvasive method of estimating regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in premature and full-term babies has been developed. Based on a modification of the /sup 133/Xe inhalation rCBF technique, this method uses eight extracranial NaI scintillation detectors and an i.v. bolus injection of /sup 133/Xe (approximately 0.5 mCi/kg). Arterial xenon concentration was estimated with an external chest detector. Cerebral blood flow was measured in 15 healthy, neurologically normal premature infants. Using Obrist's method of two-compartment analysis, normal values were calculated for flow in both compartments, relative weight and fractional flow in the first compartment (gray matter), initial slope of gray matter blood flow, mean cerebral blood flow, and initial slope index of mean cerebral blood flow. The application of this technique to newborns, its relative advantages, and its potential uses are discussed.
Nanotechnology in diagnostics and therapeutics for gastrointestinal disorders

This review describes the state of the art in nanoparticle and nanodevice applications for medical diagnosis and disease treatment. Nanodevices, such as cantilevers, have been integrated into high-sensitivity disease marker diagnostic detectors and devices, are stable over long periods of time, and display reliable performance properties. Nanotechnology strategies have been applied to therapeutic purposes as well. For example, nanoparticle-based delivery systems have been developed to protect drugs from degradation, thereby reducing the required dose and dose frequency, improving patient comfort and convenience during treatment, and reducing treatment expenses. The main objectives for integrating nanotechnologies into diagnostic and therapeutic applications in the context of intestinal diseases are reviewed.
ADDITIONS TO THE MIOCENE SUCKER CREEK FLORA OF OREGON AND IDAHO

Study of plant microfossils and additional macrofossils collected from sediments in the vicinity of Sucker Creek along the Oregon-Idaho boundary has provided additional data on the composition of this fossil flora. A total of seven taxa new to the flora have been recognized. These include colonies of Botryococcus; pollen of Podocarpus, Pachysandra, and the Onagraceae; and leaves of Cephalotaxus californica and Vaccinium sophoroides. The occurrence of Podocarpus in this mid-Miocene flora is particularly significant in view of the limited number of records of this genus in the Tertiary of North America. In addition to these new records, the presence of three additional taxa-Castanea, Nyssa, and Ilex-previously recognized on the basis of leaf remains, is further substantiated by the occurrence of fossil pollen
Evaluation of radio influence voltages in fluorescent lighting installations

ANY electric device whose operation produces a very rapid build-up or interruption of electric energy can cause a disturbance that may adversely affect radio reception. The communicator of a d-c machine represents a mechanical means of producing radio-frequency (r-f) power from electrical transients. A fluorescent lamp represents an all-electric voltage breakdown type of transient that produces modulated r-f energy. If no effort is made to confine this energy, near-by radio sets may experience a poor signal-to-noise ratio. This paper primarily discusses the radio influence voltages associated with commercial and domestic fluorescent lighting systems. The principal subjects considered are 1. The mechanism of r-f energy coupling between the lighting system and t h e radio. 2. A test method that makes possible the assignment of an approximate numerical value to the probable radio influence voltage of a fluorescent lighting system. 3. A statistical means of critically evaluating the probable radio influence voltage of a fluorescent lighting system.
Tumor angiogenesis as a prognostic factor in laryngeal cancer

background Lymph node metastasis is the single greatest predictor of recurrence in laryngeal cancer. Prognostic factors are needed to target patients who may benefit from adjuvant therapy. Tumor angiogenesis correlates with metastasis in breast, bladder, and oral cavity cancer and may have prognostic value in other tumors. methods In order to examine the relationship of tumor angiogenesis to recurrence, 51 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx were reviewed. In a blinded design, previously sectioned slides were chosen for advanced tumor and highest vessel concentration. Samples were cut and immunocytochemically stained for CD-31 (an endothelial marker). A computer image analyzer quantitated the percent area of staining. Variables were statistically examined against recurrence. results Patients were stratified by percent tumor staining. Nodal involvement was seen in 9 (36%) patients with tumor staining ≤ 20% and in 20 (77%) with tumor staining > 20% (P = 0.003). Patients with ≤ 20% staining and without metastasis had a 13% rate of recurrence whereas patients with > 20% staining and without metastasis had a 67% rate of recurrence (P = 0.025). conclusions Though nodal status was suggestive of predictability, only angiogenesis is a statistically significant predictor of recurrence in node negative patients (P = 0.025). Angiogenesis shows strong correlation with regional recurrence and may be used as an independent prognostic indicator to determine clinically node negative patients who may be at higher risk for metastasis and require adjuvant therapy.
Pressure induced shifts of molecular band lines

Abstract The pressure induced shifts in the 2-0 band of HCl due to noble gases have been observed at 900°C for values of J up to 23. The variation of the shift with J is not predicted by current theory. The lower J data are compared with the shifts/standard atmosphere measured at 25°C. The small changes with temperature which are observed have not been theoretically explained.
Effect of nucleosome structure on DNA interstrand cross-linking reactions.

Antitumor agents of the nitrogen mustard family and mitomycin C form interstrand cross-links in duplex DNA. To provide information about the cellular mechanism by which these compounds exert their cytotoxic effects, we examined cross-linking of a nucleosomal core particle formed on a fragment of the 5S RNA gene of Xenopus borealis. For the mustards mechlorethamine, chlorambucil, and melphalan, both sites of monoalkylation and interstrand cross-linking were similar in nucleosomal and free DNA. Some small (two- to three- fold) differences in intensity of cross-linking at some sites were apparent. However, these differences did not appear to correlate with rotational or translational positioning. For mitomycin C, cross-linking was inhibited five- to ten-fold at the nucleosomal dyad and showed attenuation of inhibition toward the ends. Furthermore, rotational positioning also appeared to be a factor, with sites facing inward in the nucleosome less accessible for mitomycin cross-linking. None of these agents d...
Modeling a secure sensor network system using an Extended Elementary Object System

A sensor network consists of a large number of sensor nodes, which are spread over a geographical area. Sensor networks have found their way into many applications, from military domains to traffic or environmental monitoring, to name a few. As sensor networks reach towards wide spread deployment, security becomes a major concern. We need to be sure about the confidentiality, authenticity and tamper-proof of data. The research thus far has focused on how to deploy sensor networks so that they can work efficiently. The focus of this paper is on sensor networkspsila security issues. We propose a formal model to design and analyze the secure sensor network system. The model is based on an augmented Petri net formalism called extended elementary object system. This proposed secure sensor network model has a multi-layered structure consisting of sink node level, sensor node level and security mechanism level. At the security mechanism level, a synchronous firing mechanism is utilized as a security measure to detect malicious node attacks to sensor data and information flow. In addition, the model applies SNEP protocol for authentication and confidentiality of sensor data.
Diluters for Bovine Semen. VIII. The Effects of Alterations of Some Physical Factors of a Milk Diluter on the Livability of Bull Spermatozoa

Summary The effects of alterations in the pH, osmotic pressure, and electrolyte concentration of a cysteine-treated nonfat dry milk solids diluter on the livability of bull spermatozoa have been investigated. There were no differences in livability between the two osmotic pressure levels studied (approximately −0.50° C. and −0.70° C.) and no appreciable differences among the pH levels studied (6.2, 6.6, and 7.0). The addition of either 5.0 or 10.0ml. of 0.5 N NaCl solution to 100ml. of diluter resulted in significantly improved livability. A highly significant interaction between pH and electrolyte concentration indicated that higher pH levels require higher levels of electrolytes. Neither the pH nor the osmotic pressure of the diluter changed appreciably during a 12-day storage period. It was concluded that no improvement in spermatozoan livability can be expected by alteration of the pH, osmotic pressure, or buffering capacity of the diluter employed but that the addition of 0.5 N NaCl results in slightly improved livability.
Efficacy of a short course of complex lymphedema therapy or graduated compression stocking therapy in the treatment of post-thrombotic syndrome.

Treatment options for established post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) are limited. Complex lymphedema therapy (CLT), a non-invasive treatment that improves lymphatic flow, may have the potential to improve PTS. We conducted a single-center, investigator-blind, randomized controlled trial of 31 patients with a clinically established diagnosis of PTS and compared the efficacy of graduated compression stockings alone (30–40 mmHg) with CLT, a treatment that includes compression stockings, exercise, patient education, skin care and lymphatic drainage. Primary outcomes were the 1- and 3-month changes in PTS severity by the Villalta score and disease-specific quality of life using the VEINES-QOL (Venous Insufficiency Epidemiological and Economic Study Quality of Life) questionnaire. Analysis was by intent-to-treat. We found from a baseline average score of 9.9 points, CLT reduced mean PTS severity scores by −2.4 points (p=0.02) at the 1-month and −2.3 points (p=0.05) at the 3-month follow-up. Score reductions with st...
Psychosocial predictors of salivary cortisol among older adults with depression

ABSTRACT Background: Previous studies have identified a number of psychosocial risk factors of dysregulated cortisol (frequently referred to as the "stress hormone") among older adults with depression. However, these studies have typically only examined a handful of risk factors at a time and have sometimes yielded inconsistent results. Method: This study aims to address this gap in the literature by simultaneously examining a range of relevant psychosocial predictors of diurnal cortisol among 54 older adults with a depressive disorder. Salivary cortisol was assessed upon awakening, at 5 PM, and at 9 PM across two consecutive days. Participants also completed measures of global psychosocial stress, current psychiatric symptomatology, pervasive distress (e.g. history of past depression), and protective factors (e.g. social support, resiliency, extent to which one has "made sense" of a significant stressor). Results: High levels of current depressive symptoms, psychiatric comorbidities, past depressive episodes, trait anxiety, and poorer ability to make sense of one's stress were found to be associated with flatter (more abnormal) cortisol slopes. However, when all of these variables were entered simultaneously in a multiple regression analysis, only history of past depression and the degree of sense made of stress emerged as unique predictors of cortisol in the model. Conclusions: These findings have important implications for identifying depressed elderly individuals with dysregulated cortisol patterns who may be most at risk for health complications. Treatments that aim to limit the chronicity of depression and help to increase the sense made of stress could potentially have a positive impact on health.
Vitamin B12 deficiency. Recognizing subtle symptoms in older adults

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common but under-recognized, yet easily treatable disorder in older adults. Although several causes exist, food-cobalamin malabsorption is now believed to be the most common etiology. Complications of vitamin B12 deficiency are myriad, ranging from lethargy and weight loss to dementia. Causes of deficiency include failure to separate vitamin B12 from food protein, inadequate ingestion, absorption, utilization, and storage as well as drug-food interactions leading to malabsorption and metabolic inactivation. The roles of B12 deficiency, elevated homocysteine and elevated methylmalonic acid in various disease states are still evolving. Timely screening and replacement of vitamin B12 will help prevent many complications.
An autoradiographic study of topographical relationships between pallidal and cerebellar projections to the cat thalamus

Injections of 3H-leucine were made in the entopeduncular nucleus or dentate nucleus of the cerebellum in eight cats. The terminal projection zones of both pathways in the thalamus were studied using the sagittal plane and their relationships to one another as well as to cytoarchitectural boundaries of thalamic nuclei were compared. The data indicate that the territories controlled by the two projection systems are almost entirely segregated. The segregation is mainly along the antero-posterior axis as the main pallidal projection zone occupies the medio-ventral VA while the main dentate projection zone lies posterior to it in the VL. Furthermore, the dorsolateral part of the VA not occupied by pallidal projections receives dentate projections. In the VM, both afferent systems terminate in the lateral part of the nucleus with pallidal territory located anteriorly and dentate territory located posteriorly, again without overlap. As the delineations of nuclear subdivisions in the ventral thalamus of the cat have been a subject of some controversy, it is suggested that the boundaries of the VA, VL and VM in the cat thalamus be defined on the basis of basal ganglia and cerebellar projection zones.