cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Miniature rainbow schlieren deflectometry system for quantitative measurements in microjets and flames

Recent interest in small-scale flow devices has created the need for miniature instruments capable of measuring scalar flow properties with high spatial resolution. We present a miniature rainbow schlieren deflectometry system to nonintrusively obtain quantitative species concentration and temperature data across the whole field. The optical layout of the miniature system is similar to that of a macroscale system, although the field of view is smaller by an order of magnitude. Employing achromatic lenses and a CCD array together with a camera lens and extension tubes, we achieved spatial resolution down to 4 mum. Quantitative measurements required a careful evaluation of the optical components. The capability of the system is demonstrated by obtaining concentration measurements in a helium microjet (diameter, d=650 microm) and temperature and concentration measurements in a hydrogen jet diffusion flame from a microinjector (d=50 microm). Further, the flow field of underexpanded nitrogen jets is visualized to reveal details of the shock structures existing downstream of the jet exit.
Asteroid 1 Ceres: evidence for water of hydration.

An absorption feature centred near 3.0 microns has been discovered in the infrared spectrum of asteroid 1 Ceres. This spectrum has been compared with laboratory spectra of meteorites and shows great similarity to the spectra of type II carbonaceous chondrites. By analogy this suggests the presence of about 10-15 per cent water in the form of water of hydration on the surface of Ceres. This is the first evidence of water in the surface material of an asteroid.
21st Century criminology: a reference handbook, Vols. I–II

Miller, J. M. (Ed.). 2009. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. ISBN 1412960193. pp. 960, hbk. This past year SAGE Publications introduced a new reference for criminology and criminal justice: 21st Century Cri...
Combinatorial targeting and nanotechnology applications

The development of improved methods for targeted cell detection is of general interest in many fields of research and drug development. There are a number of well-established techniques for the study and detection of biomarkers expressed in living cells and tissues. Many of them rely on multi-step procedures that might not meet ideal assay requirements for speed, cost, sensitivity, and specificity. Here we report and further validate an approach that enables spontaneous molecular assembly to generate biologically active networks of bacteriophage (phage) assembled with gold (Au) nanoparticles (termed Au-phage nanoshuttles). Here, the nanoshuttles preserve the cell binding and internalization attributes mediated by a displayed peptide targeted to a cell surface receptor. The organization of such targeted assemblies can be further manipulated to be used as a mutimodal detection assembly, and they can be characterized as fractal nanostructures by angle-dependent light scattering fractal dimension analysis. Targeted Au-phage nanoshuttles offer multiple functionalities for nanotechnology-based sensing and reporting, including enhanced florescence and improved contrast for darkfield microscopy.
Whistle-Blowing in the Public Service: an Overview of the Issues

Whistle-blowing, as a form of dissent in American bureaucracies, first emerged in force during the late 1960's and early 1970's, and was institutionalized in the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978. T...
Effects of green tea on cognition, perceived workload, mood, and endurance.

Previous research indicates green tea extract can have beneficial effects on health and performance. The present study was designed to determine the extent to which green tea extract significantly impacts cognitive functioning, endurance, perceived workload, and mood over time. Participants were 18 student athletes who were tested over a 6-week time period . Results of the experiment reveal athletes show a significant improvement in the number of push-ups completed when given green tea extract. No statistically significant improvements were found for cognition, mood, or perceived workload; however, the majority of these measures were greater in the green tea condition. The implication of these results is that natural, and in the case of green tea, very healthy, substances could be used to enhance endurance, rather than pharmacological methods such as caffeine and steroids.
Mixed model estimation of genetic and environmental correlations in red swamp crawfish Procambarus clarkii (Girard)

Total length, total weight, carapace length, carapace width, abdomen width, abdomen depth, chela length, chela width, abdomen meat weight and dressout percentage were measured on 752 individual crawfish Procambarus clarkii (Girard) from 39 full-sib families nested within 15 half-sib families. A nested mixed model analysis of variance and covariance was performed on all traits to obtain Henderson's method III variance and covariance components, as well as best linear unbiased estimators of the fixed effects of sex and male state of maturity. Genetic and environmental correlations were derived from mixed model variance and covariance components. Positive sire-based genetic correlations suggest that genetic gains in growth and processing yields, the major components of value of harvestable P. clarkii, may be pursued simultaneously in future breeding programmes. Data suggest that easily obtained external measurements are sufficiently correlated with growth and processing traits to allow for identification of potentially superior broodstock. Female, mature male and immature male levels of fixed effects, as well as estimated heritabilities for individual growth, body size and processing traits, were consistent with previous studies, further reinforcing the validity of data developed to date for use in planning P. clarkii breeding programmes.
A closer look at the spectroscopic properties of possible reaction intermediates in wild-type and mutant (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enyl diphosphate reductase.

(E)-4-Hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enyl diphosphate reductase (IspH or LytB) catalyzes the terminal step of the MEP/DOXP pathway where it converts (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enyl diphosphate (HMBPP) into the two products, isopentenyl diphosphate and dimethylallyl diphosphate. The reaction involves the reductive elimination of the C4 hydroxyl group, using a total of two electrons. Here we show that the active form of IspH contains a [4Fe-4S] cluster and not the [3Fe-4S] form. Our studies show that the cluster is the direct electron source for the reaction and that a reaction intermediate is bound directly to the cluster. This active form has been trapped in a state, dubbed FeSA, that was detected by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy when one-electron-reduced IspH was incubated with HMBPP. In addition, three mutants of IspH have been prepared and studied, His42, His124, and Glu126 (Aquifex aeolicus numbering), with particular attention paid to the effects on the cluster properties and possible re...
Generalized sampling theory and applications to multiresolutions and wavelets of L 2

We use approximation theory to generalize the classical sampling procedure of Shannon. We give a link between this theory and the theory of wavelet transforms. As an application, we give a general method for constructing scaling and wavelet functions with specifiable properties.
Development of traction retinal detachments following intravitreal injections of retinal Muller and pigment epithelial cells

We injected varying numbers of retinal Muller glia into the rabbit vitreous in an established model of traction retinal detachment. We used indirect ophthalmoscopy to observe the changes elicited during the following 1 month. Although the severity of the tractional changes increased with increasing numbers of the glial cells, the pathology produced stabilized within the 1st week of injury. Muller glia were less effective at eliciting retinal detachments than retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) or mixtures of glia and RPE. Intravitreal tissue membranes derived from the glia differed morphologically from those derived from RPE. The glial membranes had fewer fibroblast-like cells, synthesized less extracellular matrix, and showed lower intravitreal cell proliferation, as determined by3H-thymidine radioautography. Our findings indicate that membranes composed only of Muller glial cells promote less severe retinal pathology than those membranes composed of RPE or mixed cell types.
Augmenting a software engineering projects course with oral and written communication

The institutional philosophy and educational goals determine the computing needs for any college. The philosophy and goals are also affected by various factors such as size and type of institution, geographic setting, community resources and background of the student body.
An optimal test for variance components of multivariate mixed-effects linear models

In this article we derive an optimal test for testing the significance of covariance matrices of random-effects of two multivariate mixed-effects linear models. We compute the power of this newly derived test via simulation for various alternative hypotheses in a bivariate set up for unbalanced designs and observe that power responds sharply when sample size and alternative hypotheses are changed. For some balanced designs we compare power of the optimal test to that of the likelihood ratio test via simulation, and find that the proposed test has greater power than the likelihood ratio test. The results are illustrated using real data on human growth. Other relevant applications of the model are highlighted.
Thermal bleaching of x-ray-induced defect centers in high purity fused silica by diffusion of radiolytic molecular hydrogen

Isochronal and isothermal anneal curves are presented for paramagnetic defect centers in high purity Type III (1200 ppm OH) fused silicas which had been y irradiated. Successful mathematical fits to the data were achieved by means of a modified second order kinetic theory formulation under the operating hypothesis that E’ centers are annealed in the temperature range 500–700K by reaction with radiolytically-formed interstitial water molecules. Thus, H2O becomes the third small molecule (after O2 and H2) recently demonstrated to account for the thermal bleaching of radiation-induced defect centers in amorphous silica by diffusion-limited processes. Significant dependences of the annealing behavior on γ-ray dose and time after irradiation are reported and discussed in the context of the H2O diffusional model. Finally, it is emphasized that removal of the paramagnetic centers by this mechanism would leave behind an ensemble of charged, diamagnetic defects which could be reactivated by subsequent irradiations unless care is taken to remove them by higher temperature anneals.
Neurogenic Pulmonary Edema after Trigeminal Nerve Blockade

Acute neurogenic pulmonary edema developed immediately after injection of bupivacaine hydrochloride into the trigeminal cistern of a 32-year-old man with atypical facial pain and no prior history of cardiopulmonary problems. This complication of trigeminal nerve blockade has not been reported previously, to our knowledge. Associated neurologic deficits suggest a key role for the brain stem in the pathogenesis of this disorder. (Chest 1989; 96:436–38)
High-resolution visualization of mouse cardiac microvasculature using optical histology

Cardiovascular disease typically is associated with dysfunction of the coronary vasculature and microvasculature. The study of cardiovascular disease typically involves imaging of the large coronary vessels and quantification of cardiac blood perfusion. These methods, however, are not well suited for imaging of the cardiac microvasculature. We used the optical histology method, which combines chemical optical clearing and optical imaging, to create high-resolution, wide-field maps of the cardiac microvasculature in ventral slices of mouse heart. We have demonstrated the ability of the optical histology method to enable wide-field visualization of the cardiac microvasculature in high-resolution and anticipate that optical histology may have significant impact in studying cardiovascular disease.
The effect of support on redox properties and methanol-oxidation activity of vanadia catalysts

Abstract The effect of support composition on the catalytic properties of isolated mono-vanadates was studied using reaction rates for the methanol-oxidation reaction and oxygen binding from coulometric titration measurements on 2.5 wt% V 2 O 5 /ZrO 2 , 2.5 wt% V 2 O 5 /TiO 2 , and 5 wt% V 2 O 5 /Al 2 O 3 . Although a review of the redox properties for the bulk oxides V 2 O 5 , ZrV 2 O 7 , AlVO 4 , Mg 3 (VO 4 ) 2 , and CeVO 4 showed that the environment surrounding the V cations can have a dramatic effect on the redox properties, the majority of sites on supported catalysts showed nearly identical properties, with Δ G of oxidation being −375 ± 25 kJ/mol at 748 K. The steady-state turnover frequencies for methanol oxidation were also similar (within a factor of 3) on each of the supports over the temperature range from 463 to 528 K. Finally, methanol-oxidation rates in the absence of oxygen over the oxidized vanadia/titania catalyst at 443 K demonstrated that all of the vanadia sites were active for the reaction and exhibited a similar rate to that observed in the presence of oxygen, showing that the reaction follows a Mars-van Krevelen mechanism.
3DVIEWNIX: a data-, machine-, and application-independent software system for multidimensional data visualization and analysis

A data-, machine-, and application-independent software system called 3DVIEWNIX has been developed and is maintained on an ongoing basis by the Medical Image Processing Group. It is aimed at serving the needs of biomedical visualization researchers as well as end users. Unlike existing visualization packages, 3DVIEWNIX is not designed around a fixed methodology or set of methods providing a fixed set of tools. It incorporates the basic imaging transforms common to most visualization and analysis methods and provides a facility to combine them in meaningful ways. The result is a powerful exploratory environment that not only provides the commonly used standard tools but also an immense variety of others. In addition to visualization, it incorporates a variety of unique tools for multidimensional image analysis. Its design is mostly image data dimensionality independent to make it just as convenient to analyze 2-D and 3-D data as it is to analyze 4-D and higher-dimensional data. It is based on UNIX, C, X Window and our own multidimensional generalization of the 2-D ACR-NEMA standards for image data representation.
Methylene blue guidance for simplified resection of a lung lesion

A 60-year-old patient returned 1 year after right pneumonectomy with a new primary squamous cell carcinoma of the left lower lobe. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the lesion and the shortest track to the surface were marked by methylene blue preoperatively. The lesion was easily excised by wedge resection without the need for manipulation or deflation of the lung.
Site-specific antibodies to the DNA-binding domain of estrogen receptor distinguish this protein from the 3H-estradiol-binding protein in pancreas

The estradiol-binding protein (EBP) in extracts of rat and rabbit pancreata was characterized by sucrose density gradient analysis, immunoaffinity adsorption and Western blot (immunoblot) analysis using polyclonal antibodies raised against EBP. Rat pancreatic extracts labeled with 3H-estradiol contained a readily resolvable peak of steroid-binding activity that sedimented as a 4S complex on sucrose density gradients in the presence or absence of 0.4 M KCl. Estrogen receptor (ER) from calf uterine cytosols sedimented as a 4S complex on gradients containing 0.4 M KCl and as an 8S entity on gradients without KCl. Incubation of cytosol fractions from rat pancreas and calf uterus with benzoyl-DL-arginyl-p-nitroanilide (BAN) increased specific binding of 3H-estradiol to EBP but not to ER. Furthermore, two distinct site-specific antibodies to the DNA-binding domain of ER caused a marked increase in sedimentation rate of 3H-estradiol-labeled ER while normal rabbit serum and antibodies against EBP were ineffective in this regard. These data suggest that a significant portion, if not all, of the DNA-binding domain of ER is absent from EBP. Examination of the amino acid sequence of the DNA-binding domain of ER revealed a region of 10 amino acids that is significantly homologous to somatostatin, a tetradecapeptide that is a co-ligand in the binding of 3H-estradiol to EBP. Based on this observation, a possible mode of action of EBP in pancreatic acinar cells is proposed.
COMPUTATIONS OF THE COHOMOLOGY GROUPS WITH APPLICATIONS TO ASYMPTOTICALLY LINEAR BEAM EQUATIONS AND NONCOOPERATIVE ELLIPTIC SYSTEMS1

ABSTRACT We develop a method to compute the -cohomology critical groups for strongly indefinite functionals. The abstract theory is applied to prove the existence of (multiple) nontrivial solutions for asymptotically linear beam equations and noncooperative elliptic systems with unbounded sign-changing nonlinear terms and with resonance both at infinity and at zero. This work was partially supported by NSFC (10001019) and the Swedish Institute, the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences of Sweden.
Inconsistencies in air quality metrics: 'Blue Sky' days and PM 10 concentrations in Beijing

International attention is focused on Beijing's efforts to improve air quality. The number of days reported as attaining the daily Chinese National Ambient Air Quality Standard for cities, called 'Blue Sky' days, has increased yearly from 100 in 1998 to 246 in 2007. However, analysis of publicly reported daily air pollution index (API) values for fine particulate matter (diameter≤10 µm, PM10), indicates a discrepancy between the reported 'Blue Sky' days (defined as API≤100, PM10≤150 µg m−3) and published monitoring station data. Here I show that reported improvements in air quality for 2006–2007 over 2002 levels can be attributed to (a) a shift in reported daily PM10 concentrations from just above to just below the national standard, and (b) a shift of monitoring stations in 2006 to less polluted areas. I found that calculating daily Beijing API for 2006 and 2007 using data from the original monitoring stations eliminates a bias in reported PM10 concentrations near the 'Blue Sky' boundary, and results in a number of 'Blue Sky' days and annual PM10 concentration near 2002 levels in 2006 and 2007 (203 days and ~167 µg m−3 calculated for 2006—38 days fewer and a PM10 concentration ~6 µg m−3 higher than reported; 191 'Blue Sky' days and ~161 µg m−3 calculated for 2007—55 days fewer and a PM10 concentration ~12 µg m−3 higher than reported; 203 days and 166 µg m−3 were reported in 2002). Furthermore, although different pollutants were monitored before daily reporting began and less stringent standards were implemented in June 2000, reported annual average concentrations of particulate (diameter≤100 µm, TSP) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) indicate no improvement between 1998 and 2002. This analysis highlights the sensitivity of monitoring data in the evaluation of air quality trends, and the potential for the misinterpretation or manipulation of these trends on the basis of inconsistent metrics.
Decay of 56Co and 66Ga: Energy and intensity standardization

Abstract The energy and intensity of the γ-ray transitions from the decay of 77.3 d 56 Co and of 9.3 h 66 Ga have been carefully measured using a high-resolution Ge(Li) detector in conjunction with a split annular NaI(Tl) detector operated as a Compton suppression spectrometer or as a pair-three-crystal coincidence spectrometer. The following new γ-transitions were observed in the decay of 56 Co and were assigned to the well-known level scheme of 56 Fe: 263.48±0.11, 486.6±0.4, 1160.06±0.13 and 1640.3±0.2 keV. More accurate values for the energy and intensity of the weaker transitions in the 56 Co decay are offered. Twenty-one new γ-transitions have been identified with the decay of 66 Ga. From singles anti-Compton and γ-γ coincidence measurements it was established that levels at 1039.24, 1872.70, 2372.24, 2780.2, 2938.4, 3105.07, 3229.05, 3332.2, 3381.32, 3433.08, 3688.90, 3791.29,4046.5, 4086.19, 4295.52, 4461.5 and 4806.4 keV are populated in the decay of 66 Ga. A possible level at 3807.5 keV is also discussed. More accurate values for the energy and intensity of the γ-rays from 66 Ga are offered for convenient high-energy and intensity standardization of Ge(Li) spectrometers. From the log ft values determined and from γ-ray intensity information J π values to many levels in 66 Zn are deduced.
Star Trek rerun, reread, rewritten: Fan writing as textual poaching

This essay rejects media‐fostered stereotypes of Star Trek fans as cultural dupes, social misfits, or mindless consumers, perceiving them, in Michel de Certeau's term, as “poachers” of textual meanings who appropriate popular texts and reread them in a fashion that serves different interests. Specifically, the essay considers women who write fiction based in the Star Trek universe. First, it outlines how these fans force the primary text to accommodate alternate interests. Second, it considers the issue of literary property in light of the moral economy of the fan community that shapes the range of permissible retellings of the program materials.
The Role of Religion in Heart-Transplant Recipients' Long-Term Health and Well-Being

While religion has long been recognized clinically to provide important coping strategies in the face of serious health problems, there has been little systematic consideration of its role in organ transplant recipients' long-term reactions and adjustment to this experience. This study examines these issues through qualitative and quantitative evaluation of longitudinal data collected from 40 adult heart recipients followed during their first year post-transplant. Large proportions of recipients expressed strong beliefs and were able to increase religious participation over the 12-month study period. They delineated specific ways in which their faith had provided them support, as well as ways in which the transplant experience itself further strengthened their beliefs. We found empirical evidence that recipients with strong beliefs who participated in religious activities had better physical and emotional well-being, fewer health worries, and better medical compliance by the final 12-month assessment. The findings suggest the development of specific nursing, social-service, or pastoral-involvement strategies, continuing staff education about the role of religion in patient care. The implications of such interventions for maximizing quality of life in transplant recipients are discussed.
The Gendered Construction of the Engineering Profession in the United States, 1893–1920

This article examines howU.S. engineers constructed their profession within the context of changing structural conditions and hegemonic masculinity between 1893 and 1920. The professionalization of engineering and the linkages between engineering practitioners and colleges were forged during this period. At the same time, conditions for the construction of a powerful masculine self-identity in the workplace were also changing. Engineers’reflective and informative writings about their field in the professional publication Engineering News, the Proceedings of the annual conferences of the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Education, and two career guidance books (all from the 1893–1920 period) document how engineers constructed their profession as a masculine one.
Selective Infarction of the Anterior Genu Fornices Associated with Giant Cell Arteritis

We report a middle-aged woman presenting with acute confusion and anterograde amnesia. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an acute infarction of the anterior genu fornices. Evaluation of an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate led to the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Cerebral infarction is a known complication of GCA; this is the first report of such an association with selective fornix infarction.
Lithium Plating Behavior in Lithium-Ion Cells

A Li-ion cell does not contain metallic lithium under normal conditions of operation. Under strenuous charge conditions, however, metallic lithium may deposit on the carbon anode in preference to lithium intercalation and may cause problems in terms of performance, reliability and safety of the cell. Factors that affect the anode polarization and also Li intercalation kinetics play a crucial role in determining the propensity for such lithium deposition. Such factors include the nature of electrolyte, anode/cathode capacity ration, which have been studied with specific examples here. Further, various prototype cells from different manufacturers have been examined for their susceptibility towards lithium plating from a set of systematic charge/discharge tests at different charge rates and temperatures.
SU-GG-T-484: Optimization and Normalization of Hypofractionated Lung Treatment Plans

Purpose: For small solitary lesions in the lung, we have adopted a protocol for hypofractionated treatment using multiple conformal or IMRT beams. Since the lesion is near unit density and the surrounding lungtissue is low density, the loss of scatter in the lungtissue can reduce the dose to the PTV, when, in reality, the CTV or ITV may be adequately covered with margin. We have performed calculations using several ways to create the PTV and to normalize the treatment plan to provide adequate coverage of the CTV or ITV with margin while minimizing hot spots which result from normalizing to the low density PTV. Method and Materials: Gated CT scans were obtained on 2 patients and target volumes were drawn on axial series representing several individual phases of the breathing cycle. An ITV was then created and used for planning. In addition, a PTV was created by adding a clinically relevant margin around the ITV. The resulting treatment plan was then used to calculate the dose delivered to the CTV for each of the phases of the breathing cycle using different normalization methods. ITV coverage was also studied by moving the ITV inside the PTV to simulate setup error. Results: 2 patients were planned using the above mentioned technique. Properly selected normalization results in adequate CTV and ITV coverage through all phases of the breathing cycle. Effect of setup error also results in adequate ITV coverage as the high dose region moves with the ITV. Conclusion: Small isolated lesions in the lung can be treated with hypofractionation, but care should be taken in selecting the normalization technique to minimize the creation of unnecessary hotspots. Coverage of the near unit density lesions is not predicted by the low density PTV coverage.
Tribological behavior of blends of polyether ether ketone and polyether imide

Abstract In this study polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and polyether imide (PEI) were blended to raise the glass transition temperature (Tg) above that of PEEK while retaining the low-wear characteristics of PEEK. The friction and wear of injection-molded blends were measured in dry sliding by a stainless steel ball sliding on a polymer blend disk. The test variables were normal load, sliding speed and the percentage crystallinity of the PEEK component of the blend. The wear mechanism of the pure PEEK was plowing with no net loss of material. This mechanism persisted for blends up to 70% PEEK/30% PEI ( 70 30 ) for which the Tg was raised to 15 °C above that of PEEK. For 50 50 and pure PEI the wear mechanism changed to that of fatigue, as evidenced by the generation of small particles after a period of sliding with no wear. The wear rates were higher for the PEI-dominated blends: as much as 40 times larger at the highest load and sliding speed. As the percentage of PEEK in the blends was reduced, the crystallinity of the PEEK component was also reduced; for the 50 50 blend the crystallinity was zero. Annealing the injection-molded samples raised the crystallinity of the PEEK in the blends to that of the pure PEEK injection-molded sample. In general, the increase in crystallinity caused by annealing reduced the wear rate of the blends. The coefficient of friction for the blends with low wear was below 0.15, while it was 0.2 to 0.3 for the blends which had the higher wear rates. For these latter blends, the friction coefficient was low until the wear track formed, at which time it increased to the higher level.
Identification of accessory spleens during laparoscopic splenectomy is superior to preoperative computed tomography for detection of accessory spleens.

Background Missed accessory spleen (AcS) can cause recurrence of hematologic disease after splenectomy. The objective of the study was to determine whether detection of AcS is more accurate with preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan or with exploration during laparoscopic splenectomy. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed for 75 adult patients who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy for various hematologic disorders from 1999 to 2009. Preoperative CT scans were performed in all patients. Patients were followed for recurrence of disease, and a scintigraphy scan was performed in those with suspected missed AcS. Results The most common diagnosis was idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in 29 patients (39%), followed by non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 22 patients (29%). Sixteen AcSs were found during surgery in 15 patients (20%), and preoperative CT scan identified 2 of these. Twelve AcSs were located at the splenic hilum (75%). Nine patients experienced recurrence of their disease, and none had a missed AcS on subsequent scintigraphy. Sensitivity of exploratory laparoscopy for detection of AcS was 100%, and for preoperative CT scan was 12.5% (P = .005). Conclusion Exploratory laparoscopy during splenectomy is more accurate than preoperative imaging with CT scan for detection of AcS. Preoperative CT scan misses AcS frequently and should not be obtained for the purpose of its identification.
International nursing exchange programs

International nursing programs provide a venue for nurses from many countries to have a dialogue about nursing practice, education, and research. This article provides an overview of a comprehensive international nursing program at a large academic medical center. Two aspects of the international nursing program are addressed: hosting international nurse visitors and facilitating visits of U.S. nurses abroad. The history, objectives, selection of participants, and design of the program are described. A retrospective review of outcomes of the international program is provided based on feedback from participants.
Electrochemical reduction of cycloocta- and cyclodecabiphenylenes: an improved empirical model for the prediction of reduction potentials of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract The reduction potentials of 5,6,9,10-tetradehydrocyclodeca[1,2,3,4-def]benzo[7,8]biphenylyene, 1, its naphtho[2,3-7,8]-analog, 2, cycloocta[1,2,3,4-def]biphenylene, 8, and both is benzo[3,4]cyclobuta[6,7]- and naphtho[3,4[cyclobuta[2,3-6,7]-analogs, 3 and 4, were determined by cyclic voltammetry at a Pt electrode in CH3CH +0.1 M (n-C4H9)4N+ C10−4 (vs. SSCE). Attempts were made to reduce 1 electrochemically to 3 but UV spectra of the product mixture revealed, at best, only traces of 3. Dewar et al. have reported a linear correlation between the Ered 1 2 values for 76 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH's) and both their HMO LUMO's and Dewar-de Llano (SCF) electron affinities. A fit of our SCHMO LUMO's to the same data yielded a significantly improved correlation. The Ered 1 2 values, measured under our conditions, for naphthalene, pyrene, anthracene, and perylene were used to calibrate the line. It was found that biphenylene, fits on this line, but hydrocarbons 1–4 and 8 deviated by +440 mV. The deviations of 1 and 2 may be attributed to their differing 2 e− reduction pathway, whereas those of 3, 4, and 8 remain a puzzle.
Schizophrenia, Myelination, and Delayed Corollary Discharges: A Hypothesis

Any etiological theory of schizophrenia must account for at least 3 distinctive features of the disorder, namely its excessive dopamine neurotransmission, its frequent periadolescent onset, and its bizarre, pathognomonic symptoms. In this article, we theorize that each of these features could arise from a single underlying cause—namely abnormal myelination of late-developing frontal white matter fasciculi. Specifically, we suggest that abnormalities in frontal myelination result in conduction delays in the efference copies initiated by willed actions. These conduction delays cause the resulting corollary discharges to be generated too late to suppress the sensory consequences of the willed actions. The resulting ambiguity as to the origins of these actions represents a phenomenologically and neurophysiologically significant prediction error. On a phenomenological level, the perception of salience in a self-generated action leads to confusion as to its origins and, consequently, passivity experiences and auditory hallucinations. On a neurophysiological level, this prediction error leads to the increased activity of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain. This dopaminergic activity causes previously insignificant events to be perceived as salient, which exacerbates the budding hallucinations and passivity experiences and triggers additional first-rank symptoms such as delusions of reference. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications of the theory and some testable predictions which may form a worthwhile basis for future research.
Volar Plate Fixation Failure for Volar Shearing Distal Radius Fractures With Small Lunate Facet Fragments

Purpose To determine the percentage of AO B3 distal radius fractures that lose reduction after operative fixation and to see whether fracture morphology, patient factors, or fixation methods predict failure. We hypothesized that initial fracture displacement, amount of lunate facet available for fixation, plate position, and screw fixation would be significant risk factors for loss of reduction. Methods A prospective, observational review was conducted of 51 patients (52 fractures) with AO B3 (volar shearing) distal radius fractures treated operatively between January 2007 and June 2012. We reviewed a prospective distal radius registry to determine demographic data, medical comorbidities, and physical examination findings. Radiographs were evaluated for AO classification, loss of reduction, length of volar cortex available for fixation, and adequacy of stabilization of the lunate facet fragment with a volar plate. Preoperative data were compared between patients who maintained radiographic alignment and those with loss of reduction. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was completed to determine significant predictors of loss of reduction. Results Volar shearing fractures with separate scaphoid and lunate facet fragments (AO B3.3), preoperative lunate subsidence distance, and length of volar cortex available for fixation were significant predictors for loss of reduction; the latter was significant in multivariate analysis. Plate position and number of screws used to stabilize the lunate facet were not statistically different between groups. Conclusions Patients with AO B3.3 fractures with less than 15 mm of lunate facet available for fixation, or greater than 5 mm of initial lunate subsidence, are at risk for failure even if a volar plate is properly placed. In these cases, we recommend additional fixation to maintain reduction of the small volar lunate facet fracture fragments in the form of plate extensions, pins, wires, suture, wire forms, or mini screws. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic III.
Remote access and display of neutron data

With the proliferation of high-intensity neutron sources and involvement of scientists from diverse areas, it is important to provide methods for remote access and display of data. We have developed an integrated spectral analysis workbench (ISAW) that can read, merge or combine, operate on, and visualize large arrays of data. ISAW is written in Java to allow it to run on common user workstations and to facilitate network communications. Recently, we added the ability to remotely access live data made available through a data server running on the control computer. This data server receives UDP data packets from a data sender running as part of the data-acquisition system and sends TCP data packets requested by ISAW clients running on user desktop systems.
Infrared Low Temperature Turbine Vane Rough Surface Heat Transfer Measurements

Turbine vane heat transfer distributions obtained using an infrared camera technique are described. Infrared thermography was used because noncontact surface temperature measurements were desired. Surface temperatures were 80 C or less. Tests were conducted in a three-vane linear cascade, with inlet pressures between 0.14 and 1.02 atm, and exit Mach numbers of 0.3, 0.7, and 0.9, for turbulence intensities of approximately 1 and 10 percent. Measurements were taken on the vane suction side, and on the pressure side leading edge region. The designs for both the vane and test facility are discussed. The approach used to account for conduction within the vane is described. Midspan heat transfer distributions are given for the range of test conditions.
Addressing system-level trimming issues in on-chip nanophotonic networks

The basic building block of on-chip nanophotonic interconnects is the microring resonator [14], and these resonators change their resonant wavelengths due to variations in temperature — a problem that can be addressed using a technique called ”trimming”, which involves correcting the drift via heating and/or current injection. Thus far system researchers have modeled trimming as a per ring fixed cost. In this work we show that at the system level using a fixed cost model is inappropriate — our simulations demonstrate that the cost of heating has a non-linear relationship with the number of rings, and also that current injection can lead to thermal runaway. We show that a very narrow Temperature Control Window (TCW) must be maintained in order for the network to work as desired. However, by exploiting the group drift property of co-located rings, it is possible to create a sliding window scheme which can increase the TCW. We also show that partially athermal rings can alleviate but not eliminate the problem.
Antigone’s Remainders: Choral Ruminations and Political Judgment

This paper reads Antigone from the perspective of the Chorus. Whereas most interpreters read Antigone from the perspective of Creon and Antigone’s respective laws, I maintain that the protagonists ...
Solar energy conversion.

If solar energy is to become a practical alternative to fossil fuels, we must have efficient ways to convert photons into electricity, fuel, and heat. The need for better conversion technologies is a driving force behind many recent developments in biology, materials, and especially nanoscience.
Student Evaluation of Friedman's Immediate Feedback, No Return Test Procedure for Introductory Psychology.

Friedman's (1987) immediate feedback, no return test technique was evaluated via student ratings. Students were enthusiastic in their assessment of the technique and believed that it facilitated their learning.
PERTURBATION APPROACH FOR QUANTUM TRANSMISSION

In scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), the potential barriers are often close to or lower than the Fermi level, where both semiclassical tunneling theory and Bardeen’s tunneling theory are no longer valid. We present a new perturbation approach for general quantum transmission phenomena. For thick, positive potential barriers, it reduces to Bardeen’s tunneling theory. For potential barriers lower than the energy level, it is valid as long as the barrier thickness is smaller than one half of the de Broglie wavelength, a condition which is always satisfied in STM. An immediate application is shown.
Chemical communication among bacteria.

Cell–cell communication in bacteria is accomplished through the exchange of chemical signal molecules called autoinducers. This process, called quorum sensing, allows bacteria to monitor their environment for the presence of other bacteria and to respond to fluctuations in the number and/or species present by altering particular behaviors. Most quorum-sensing systems are species- or group-specific, which presumably prevents confusion in mixed-species environments. However, some quorum-sensing circuits control behaviors that involve interactions among bacterial species. These quorum-sensing circuits can involve both intra- and interspecies communication mechanisms. Finally, anti-quorumsensing strategies are present in both bacteria and eukaryotes, and these are apparently designed to combat bacteria that rely on cell–cell communication for the successful adaptation to particular niches.
Physiological and Behavioral Changes in Honey Bees (Apis mellifera) Induced by Nosema ceranae Infection

Persistent exposure to mite pests, poor nutrition, pesticides, and pathogens threaten honey bee survival. In healthy colonies, the interaction of the yolk precursor protein, vitellogenin (Vg), and endocrine factor, juvenile hormone (JH), functions as a pacemaker driving the sequence of behaviors that workers perform throughout their lives. Young bees perform nursing duties within the hive and have high Vg and low JH; as older bees transition to foraging, this trend reverses. Pathogens and parasites can alter this regulatory network. For example, infection with the microsporidian, Nosema apis, has been shown to advance behavioral maturation in workers. We investigated the effects of infection with a recent honey bee pathogen on physiological factors underlying the division of labor in workers. Bees infected with N. ceranae were nearly twice as likely to engage in precocious foraging and lived 9 days less, on average, compared to controls. We also show that Vg transcript was low, while JH titer spiked, in infected nurse-aged bees in cages. This pattern of expression is atypical and the reverse of what would be expected for healthy, non-infected bees. Disruption of the basic underpinnings of temporal polyethism due to infection may be a contributing factor to recent high colony mortality, as workers may lose flexibility in their response to colony demands.
Clinical consequences and cost of limiting use of vancomycin for perioperative prophylaxis: example of coronary artery bypass surgery.

Routine use of vancomycin for perioperative prophylaxis is discouraged, principally to minimize microbial resistance to it. However, outcomes and costs of this recommendation have not been assessed. We used decisionanalytic models to compare clinical results and cost-effectiveness of no prophylaxis, cefazolin, and vancomycin, in coronary artery bypass graft surgery. In the base case, vancomycin resulted in 7% fewer surgical site infections and 1% lower all-cause mortality and saved $117 per procedure, compared with cefazolin. Cefazolin, in turn, resulted in substantially fewer infections and deaths and lower costs than no prophylaxis. We conclude that perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis with vancomycin is usually more effective and less expensive than cefazolin. Data on vancomycin’s impact on resistance are needed to quantify the trade-off between individual patients' improved clinical outcomes and lower costs and the future longterm consequences to society.
Relative Importance of Environmental Stress and Herbivory in Reducing Litter Fall in a Semiarid Woodland

We examined the impact of soil stress (low water and nutrient availabilities) and two keystone insect herbivores on pinyon pine (Pinus edulis) needle litterfall. We compared trees growing on two distinct soil types: volcanic cinders, which exhibit pronounced water and nutrient limitation, and sandy-loam soils, which have higher water-storage capacity and nutrient availability. Using two longterm herbivore removal experiments (15 and 18 years, respectively), we also examined the effects of the pinyon needle scale (Matsucoccus acalyptus, which attacks juvenile trees) and the stem-boring moth (Dioryctria albovittella, which attacks mature trees) on pinyon litterfall. These herbivores reach high densities on cinder soils but are absent or occur at much lower levels on sandy-loam soils. Four years of litterfall measurements showed four major patterns. First, independent of herbivory, needle litterfall was 20% lower under trees on high-stress cinder soils than on sandy-loam soils. Second, in agreement with the negative impact of scales on tree growth (that is, a 30% decline in stem growth), trees with scale infestations had 25% lower litterfall rates than trees resistant to scale; however, 15 years of scale-insect removal did not significantly increase needle litterfall. This implies possible intrinsic differences in litter production between scale-resistant and scale-susceptible trees. Third, in contrast with significant negative effects of moth herbivory on tree growth (that is, a 27% decline in stem growth), moth herbivory had no effect on needle litterfall. This, along with increased stem density in moth-susceptible trees, may be evidence of compensatory production. Fourth, there were strong year by soil type and year by scale herbivory interactions, such that in some years the effect on litterfall can be obscured or reversed by some other factor. In summary, soil stress has a strong and predictable effect on needle litterfall, whereas the relationship between insect herbivory and needle litterfall is weaker and depends on the individual herbivore. These effects, however, are mediated by other environmental factors that have considerable annual variation.
Size Homogeneity of a Liposome Preparation is Crucial for Liposome Biodistribution in Vivo

AbstractSmall liposomes, prepared by sonication or extrusion, were compared for their biodistribution patterns in mice. Significant difference was observed for a given lipid composition for liposomes prepared by these two different methods. Using gel filtration, negative stain EM, and quasi-elastic light scattering analysis of the liposome preparations, it appeared that such difference was resulted from the heterogeneity in liposome size. Sonicated liposomes, more heterogeneous in size, generally showed a lower uptake in the liver and spleen and higher level in the blood than the less heterogeneous extruded liposomes.
On a decomposition of generalized constraint forces

An additive decomposition of generalized constraint forces into a component determined by the motion of the system and a constitutively prescribed component is discussed in this paper. The former component is shown to be necessary and sufficient to ensure that the motion of the system satisfies the constraint, while the prescription of the latter is shown to be at the discretion of the dynamicist. The decomposition is also related to previous works on constraint forces in the dynamics of discrete mechanical systems.