cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acid/Rock Interactions During Stimulation of Sour Water Injectors in a Sandstone Reservoir

A sandstone reservoir in central Saudi Arabia produces sweet, super-light oil. Reservoir pressure support is accomplished by water injection into an aquifer underlying the pay zone. Several water injectors were found to be damaged due to iron sulfide and biomass generated by sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB). The sandstone reservoir is heterogeneous, poorly cemented, and contains up to 11 wt% of clay minerals and up to 0.3 wt% calcite. An experimental study was conducted to design an effective stimulation treatment to restore the injectivity of the damaged wells, while maintaining the integrity of the formation. Various acids including HCI, acetic acid, regular and retarded mud acids were tested. Stimulation additives including H 2 S scavenger (aldehydes), iron control agents(EDTA), corrosion (amines) and scale inhibitors (phosphonic acid) were evaluated. Tests included acid-rock interactions under static and dynamic (core flood) conditions. Spent acid was analyzed for key cations using Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrophotometry (ICP). Core flood tests indicated that full strength mud acid damaged reservoir cores. Therefore, a half strength regular or retarded HF acid was used. Retarded HF acids which are based on boric acid produced a precipitate (KBF 4 ) and are not recommended for field application. Hydrochloric acid at 7.5 wt% was effective in removing iron sulfide and biomass. However, XRD/XRF analyses indicated that elemental sulfur and CaSO 4 precipitated inside the core, and were present in the core effluent. Addition of EDTA (chelating agent) to the acid substantially increased the concentration of multivalent cations in the core effluent. It also triggered production of fine silica particles and kaolinite, thus the cores were damaged. Hydrogen sulfide scavenger were found not to damage the reservoir cores. Scale inhibitor (phosphonic acid) minimized precipitation of calcium sulfate, however, it caused a significant drop in brine permeability when used at high concentrations ( > 0.3 wt%). Results obtained in this study indicated that a thorough screening of various acids and stimulation additives is needed before stimulating sour wells, otherwise severe damage can occur due to acid reactions with iron sulfide (a corrosion byproduct) and carbonate minerals present in the formation.
Effect of Surface Oxidation on Interfacial Water Structure at a Pyrite (100) Surface as Studied by Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Abstract In the first part of this paper, a SEM and contact angle study of a pyrite (100) surface is reported describing the relationship between surface oxidation and the hydrophilic surface state. In addition to these experimental results, the following simulated surface states were examined using molecular dynamics simulation (MDS): a fresh unoxidized (100) surface; polysulfide at the (100) surface; and elemental sulfur at the (100) surface. Crystal structures for the polysulfide and elemental sulfur at the (100) surface were simulated using density functional theory (DFT) quantum chemical calculations. The well known oxidation mechanism which involves formation of a metal deficient layer was also described with DFT. Our MDS results of the behavior of interfacial water at the fresh and oxidized pyrite (100) surfaces without/with the presence of ferric hydroxide include simulated contact angles, number density distribution for water, water dipole orientation, water residence time, and hydrogen-bonding considerations. The significance of the formation of ferric hydroxide islands in accounting for the corresponding hydrophilic surface state is revealed not only from experimental contact angle measurements but also from simulated contact angle measurements using MDS. The hydrophilic surface state developed at oxidized pyrite surfaces has been described by MDS, on which basis the surface state is explained, based on interfacial water structure.
MULTICOMPONENT LIQUID PHASE ADSORPTION IN BATCH PART II EXPERIMENT ON CARBON ADSORPTION FROM SOLUTIONS OF PHENOL, O-CRESOL, AND 2,4-DICHLOROPHENOL

Abstract Experiments were conducted on carbon adsorption from solutions of phenol, o-cresol, and 2,4-dichlorophenol in various combinations. The equilibrium data were found in general agreement with predictions based on the ideal adsorbed solution (IAS) theory. The kinetic measurements suggest that the adsorption process can be described by the film-surface diffusion (FSD) model. By using the algorithms developed in Part I and based on the rate and equilibrium data obtained from single adsorbate adsorption measurements, concentration histories of the individual adsorbate of carbon adsorption from solutions containing phenol, o-cresol and 2,4-dichlorophenol can be predicted with sufficient accuracy.
PCIS: a piece-based construction information system on the world wide web

This paper describes a piece-based construction information system organized as a hypergraphic virtual environment on the World Wide Web. An array of cubes on the site's animated splash-page acts as a directory to a collection of data-theaters that give this information its virtual form. A mouse click on one of these cubes leads to an orthographic model of the object to be constructed. This model is an index to a database of scaled drawings, animations, and specifications. The index is hypergraphic because a click on the image of one of the pieces of the model leads to a data page that provides information about that piece in the context of its assembly. Panels surround the index to act as an interface to projections of the pieces of the object. These projections include elevations, plans, slices, and dimensioned details. A click on the elevation-panel leads to information on finishes, framing, and construction of each face of the object. From above, the plan-panel shows roofing, framing, floor plan, foundation layout, excavation, and utilities as an animation of the construction process. There are also animated slice-panels that cut through the object to give heights and materials. A click on one of these panels leads to two-dimensional drawings and details of the actual construction. The orthographic index morphs to a framed VR environment where the model can be turned and viewed in perspective. A click on one of the pieces of the model in this information the VR environment leads to specifications and manufacturing information about the materials of its construction. The user accesses this information through a tool-palette to communicate with design team members. In this way, the team can coordinate the document's development, review progress, and make changes to the information system. This breaks the notion of a construction document as an object-of-exchange and suggests the use of the computer as a medium of communication that facilitates the design and construction process.
Detecting stratigraphic discontinuities using time-frequency seismic phase residues

Spectral decomposition is a proven, powerful means of identifying strong amplitude anomalies at specific frequencies that are otherwise buried in the broadband response. Most publications focus on using spectral magnitude instead of phase components to identify lateral changes in stratigraphy, wavefield attenuation from the quality factor Q, and unconformities between geologic formations. Although seismic acquisition and processing preserve phase very well, little has been published about interpreting the phase components resulting from spectral decomposition. Morlet complex wavelet transform phase residues can improve seismic spectral decomposition interpretation by detecting the phase discontinuities in the joint time-frequency spectral phase component. Phase singularities can be associated with geologic features, and work with phase residues can improve interpretation of the Anadarko basin Red Fork channels of Oklahoma, U.S.A.
Successful bone marrow transplantation for severe aplastic anemia following orthotopic liver transplantation: long-term follow-up and outcome.

Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is well described in children following liver transplantation for fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) secondary to non-A, non-B, non-C hepatitis, and is associated with a high mortality rate. Successful immunosuppressive treatment of SAA following liver transplantation has been reported, but death from infectious complications is not uncommon. We report the 8-year follow-up of a 3.5-year-old boy who underwent successful HLA-identical sibling donor bone marrow transplant for SAA 7 months following orthotopic liver transplant for non-A, non-B, non-C hepatitis. His post-bone marrow transplantation course was uneventful with no evidence of liver toxicity. Eight months following BMT he developed renal cell carcinoma metastatic to lymph nodes which was treated surgically. Six years following BMT he developed a mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland also treated surgically. Despite these malignancies, he is currently well 8 years following liver and bone marrow transplantation, without signs of GVHD, growth failure or liver graft rejection. This is the first report of long-term follow-up of bone marrow transplantation for SAA following liver transplantation. The occurrence of two subsequent malignancies in this child underscores the need for close follow-up of future similar cases. Bone Marrow Transplantation (2001) 28, 523–526.
Transfer process limited models for CO2 perception in CO2 hydrate desserts

Abstract A CO 2 hydrate dessert is a carbonated frozen dessert in which CO 2 hydrates replace some or all of the ice. When a CO 2 hydrate dessert is eaten, CO 2 perception is very strong due to formation and bursting of bubbles in the mouth as well as dissolution of CO 2 leading to nociceptor stimulation. A preliminary sensory panel indicated that a CO 2 hydrate dessert could be perceived as more carbonated than a freshly opened soda. However, it was also found that a CO 2 hydrate dessert must have a significantly higher CO 2 concentration than is typical in carbonated beverages (including champagne), just to have moderate perception of carbonation. In this work, heat transfer limited and mass transfer limited models for CO 2 hydrate dissociation are compared and the implications for CO 2 perception are discussed. It is suggested that the mass transfer limited model is most applicable to the case of eating CO 2 hydrate desserts. According to this model, a thin ice shell limits the rate of CO 2 hydrate dissociation. After dissociation, CO 2 gas is dissolved in the available aqueous phase. In a CO 2 hydrate there is much more CO 2 present than could be dissolved in the water that is present, so a large fraction of the CO 2 in the dessert may be lost with the breath of the consumer.
Aerodynamic Design: Some Reflections on Present and Possible Future Developments

A PHYSICIST addressing an informal gathering recently was asked by one of his audience if lie could put Einstein's relativity theory in a nutshell. The task of covering in one short article the whole realm of problems which arise in the aerodynamic design of an aeroplane to‐day, though not so exacting, is still formidable. Fortunately a learned scientific thesis on every aspect, even were space available, is undesirable; for I am sure it will be agreed that a too meticulous or detailed study of even a few of the problems would only obscure the main issue, which is to discuss our present ideas on aeroplane design from the aerodynamic point of view and to indicate the direction in which they are likely to lead us.
Comment on the valence-band widths of alkali halides

The recent suggestion of the author that the valence-band widths of alkali halides obey a simple ${d}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$ law, where $d$ is the interatomic spacing, is shown to be satisfied by recent experimental data by Poole, Jenkin, Liesegang, and Leckey.
A nanoscale optical biosensor: sensitivity and selectivity of an approach based on the localized surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy of triangular silver nanoparticles.

Triangular silver nanoparticles (∼100 nm wide and 50 nm high) have remarkable optical properties. In particular, the peak extinction wavelength, λmax of their localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) spectrum is unexpectedly sensitive to nanoparticle size, shape, and local (∼10−30 nm) external dielectric environment. This sensitivity of the LSPR λmax to the nanoenvironment has allowed us to develop a new class of nanoscale affinity biosensors. The essential characteristics and operational principles of these LSPR nanobiosensors will be illustrated using the well-studied biotin−streptavidin system. Exposure of biotin-functionalized Ag nanotriangles to 100 nM streptavidin (SA) caused a 27.0 nm red-shift in the LSPR λmax. The LSPR λmax shift, ΔR/ΔRmax, versus [SA] response curve was measured over the concentration range 10-15 M < [SA] < 10-6 M. Comparison of the data with the theoretical normalized response expected for 1:1 binding of a ligand to a multivalent receptor with different sites but invariant af...
Enhanced Microwave Heating of Nonpolar Solvents by Dispersed Magnetic Nanoparticles

The microwave absorption characteristics of xylene as a model nonpolar solvent are dramatically increased by the incorporation of dispersed cobalt and magnetite nanoparticles. The addition of 1−2 vol % of these colloids to xylene can produce heating rates by microwaves at 2.45 GHz that approach those for water. The particles have diameters of 5−20 nm and contain a coating on their surface to avoid their aggregation and precipitation from solution. The small particle sizes are compatible with a rapid process of heat transfer to the surrounding xylene, thereby minimizing the generation of large temperature gradients around the particles. Cobalt particles are more effective than magnetite particles for enhancing the heating rates of xylene by microwaves, with nanoparticles of cobalt with diameters less than 10 nm exhibiting greater levels of microwave absorption enhancement than nanoparticles of larger diameters.
Using Intrade.com to Teach Campaign Strategies in the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election.

During the six weeks before the 2008 elections, I conducted a contest for the 72 students enrolled in my upper-division course Campaigns and Elections. Using contract prices posted by Intrade.com, an electronic gaming market based in Dublin, I asked students to choose among 10 political outcomes. The “contracts” earned by each choice were determined by the Intrade “bid” prices as of September 24, 2008, the day the contest began. The contest helped teach students about campaign strategies, the way electoral rules affect electoral outcomes, provided a reference point to discuss the campaign, and was designed to stimulate interest in the election.
Mammary artery versus saphenous vein grafts: Assessment of basic fibroblast growth factor receptors

Abstract Neointimal hyperplasia limits the long-term patency of saphenous vein grafts (SVGs), but is notably absent from most internal mammary artery (IMA) grafts. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a local endothelial and vascular smooth muscle mitogen known to be involved in the pathogenesis of neointimal hyperplasia. This study used an animal model to compare the number of available high-affinity (HAR) and low-affinity (LAR) bFGF receptors in SVGs and IMA grafts and to determine whether distention injury causes an increase in receptor availability. The IMA and SVG specimens were harvested from 12 dogs and distended at 25 or 200 mm Hg for 15 minutes, and then the bFGF receptor uptake was measured in them using iodine 125-labeled bFGF. In the IMA conduits distended at low pressure, there were 2.54 ± 0.10 (mean ± standard error of the mean) HARs per mm 2 of intimai surface area available and 5.19 ± 0.40 LARs per mm 2 . High-pressure distention significantly ( p 2 and of LARs to 7.27 ± 0.042 per mm 2 . At low pressure, the SVGs had significantly ( p 2 ) and LARs (18.2 ± 0.57 per mm 2 ) available than did the IMA conduits, and high pressure significantly ( p 2 and the number of LARs to 44.7 ± 2.34 per mm 2 . These results demonstrate that there is a significantly higher number of available bFGF receptors per unit of surface area in dog SVGs than IMA grafts. High-pressure distention further increases the differences in the number of available bFGF receptors between SVGs and IMA grafts ( p
Distribution and abundance of small mammals along a subtropical elevational gradient in central Taiwan

The elevational distribution of small mammals was surveyed by three transects during 1989–90 at Yushan National Park in subtropical central Taiwan. As a result of this survey, a sample of 1205 animals was obtained. Based on the sample, the sampling regime and elevational distribution of these species is reported with consideration of the spatial and temporal components. To detect the presence of all species and to estimate their relative abundances at any elevational site, one must trap consecutively for a minimum of five days.‘Trap competition’is common in trap lines, resulting in a few traps being responsible for all the captures. Besides, common and rare species at each elevation have different trap responses. The elevational distribution of small mammals shows substantial seasonal and spatial variation. Furthermore, the plant succession is demonstrated to influence the species composition and relative abundances of the small mammal community at the same elevation. Despite the variation, some general patterns of elevational distribution emerge. Tamiops muritimus occurs above 2000 m and is common at 2000–3000 m. Apodemus semotus is widely distributed from 1400 to 3700 m, but becomes rare below 1500 m and above 3600 m. The congeneric A. ugrurius is known only from lowlands in Taiwan and reaches no higher than 1000 m. Niviventer culturutus occurs at about 2000–3000 m, whereas N. coxingi occurs no higher than 2000 m and is common below 1300 m. Two species of microtine also show replacement in elevational distribution. Eothenomys melunoguster occurs from 1400 to 3000 m and Microtus kikuchii becomes abundant only above 3000 m. Two shrews, Anourosorex squumipes and Soriculus fumidus, are widely distributed at different elevations, but their distribution seems to be little related to elevation.
Prehospital Endotracheal Intubation of Children by Paramedics

Abstract Study objective: To describe the experience of an emergency medical services system with the use of liberal indications for prehospital pediatric endotracheal intubation. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of prehospital and hospital patient records in an urban and suburban prehospital care system. The study included all children aged 15 years or younger who were intubated in the prehospital setting by King County paramedics from January 1, 1984, to December 31, 1990. Results: During the 7-year study period, 654 children were intubated, of which 355 (54%) were study patients. The median age of the patients was 3 years; 60% had an injury diagnosis. On arrival of the paramedics, 60% of the patients were in sinus rhythm, 62% had a systolic blood pressure of 70 mm Hg or greater, and 56% had a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute or greater. The Glasgow Coma Scale score was 8 or lower in 83% of the patients. Succinylcholine was used to facilitate intubation in 47% of patients. On arrival at the emergency department, 79% of the patients were in sinus rhythm; 75% had an adequate blood pressure (70 mm Hg or greater); 86% had a PaO 2 value of 100 mm Hg or greater; and 74% had a PaCO 2 value of 45 mm Hg or lower. Complications of intubation, more than half of which were classified as minor, were noted in 22.6% of patients. We were unable to determine the number of failed intubation attempts. Most of the patients (58%) survived to hospital discharge. Among cardiac arrest victims, only 12% survived. Conclusion: In a setting where paramedics practice with close medical direction, applying liberal indications for pediatric intubation and permitting the use of succinylcholine allowed paramedics to intubate children of different ages and diagnoses. [Brownstein D, Shugerman R, Cummings P, Rivara F, Copass M: Prehospital endotracheal intubation of children by paramedics. Ann Emerg Med July 1996;28:34-39.]
Separation of a series of positional and geometrical isomers of olefinic aliphatic primary alcohols and acetates by capillary gas chromatography

Abstract A general procedure has been developed for the separation of the isomers of many of the olefinic aliphatic insect pheromones using glass capillary gas-liquid chromatographic columns. Four stationary phases containing varying amounts of cyano-propyl and two polyoxyethylene phases were investigated for the separation of positional and geometrical isomers of a series of mono-unsaturated primary acetates and alcohols. Based on the data obtained a procedure has been developed which permits the prediction of elution order and resolution for many di-unsaturated pheromones.
Resection of the scaphoid distal pole for symptomatic scaphoid nonunion after failed previous surgical treatment.

Purpose To evaluate the results of resection of the scaphoid distal pole for symptomatic scaphoid nonunion after failed prior surgical treatment. Methods Thirteen patients who were treated with resection of the scaphoid distal pole for persistent nonunion after previous surgical treatment were included in this study. The mean follow-up period was 5 years. Evaluation included measurement of wrist range of motion, assessment of pain, and evaluation of radiographic parameters. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was used to determine the functional outcome after the excision. Results Before surgery all but 1 patient reported pain. After surgery 2 patients presented with mild pain during strenuous activity. Mean wrist flexion and extension increased significantly, by 23° and 29°, respectively. The postoperative Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 25 ± 19 points. There was a significant increase in the radiolunate angle, indicating dorsal intercalated segment instability deformity in 6 patients. Conclusions Scaphoid distal pole excision remains a valuable treatment option for patients for whom multiple attempts at union have failed previously and who have no associated complete scapholunate ligament tears. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic, Level IV.
Isolation and structures of two new polycyclic ethers from gymnodinium breve davis (=ptychodiscus brevis)

Abstract Two new polycyclic ethers were isolated from the unialgal culture of red tide dinoflagellate, Gymnodinium breve Davis (Syn. Ptychodiscus brevis ) and their structures elucidated.
INHIBITORY EFFECTS OF ANTAGONISTS OF BOMBESIN/GASTRIN RELEASING PEPTIDE (GRP) AND SOMATOSTATIN ANALOG (RC-160) ON GROWTH OF HT-29 HUMAN COLON CANCERS IN NUDE MICE

Nude mice bearing xenografts of HT-29 human colon cancer cell line were treated for 4 weeks with somatostatin analog (RC-160), bombesin/gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) antagonists (RC-3095 and RC-3440). In three separate experiments somatostatin analog RC-160 (50 μg/day) released from microgranules significantly reduced tumor growth. Bombesin/GRP antagonists, RC-3095 and RC-3440 injected subcutaneously (s.c.) twice daily at a dose of 10 μg had the greatest and consistently significant inhibitory effect on tumor growth. RC-3095 given once daily s.c. at a dose of 20 μg was less effective. RC-3095 also inhibited metastatic tumor growth after intrasplenic injection of HT-29 cells in nude mice. Specific binding sites of somatostatin, bombesin and epidermal growth factor (EGF) were detected on intact HT-29 cells or on the membranes from HT-29 tumor xenografts. The inhibitory effects of bombesin antagonists on tumor growth were consistently linked with a significant down-regulation of EGF receptors. Bombesin/GRP...
Multicenter study on the value of ICD-9-CM codes for case identification of celiac disease.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the value of ICD-9-CM code for identifying celiac disease (CD). Methods We searched administrative data to identify all adults with ICD-9-CM diagnosis code 579.0 (CD) at three teaching hospitals between 2000 and 2010. We then stratified patients according to the presence/absence of relevant serology and endoscopy codes into four groups: None, serology, endoscopy, and both. A diagnostic algorithm was applied to define CD status. Results Through random sampling and appropriate weighting, the 1200 reviewed patients represented a cohort of 8,122 cases. The overall positive predictive value (PPV) of the ICD-9-CM code was 15% (95% confidence interval [CI], 13%–17%). Case identification by a diagnosis code alone had a PPV of 4%, whereas the group with diagnosis code plus both serology and endoscopy testing had a PPV of 49%. Independent predictors of CD were non-Hispanic white, ICD-9-CM–coded patient group, total number of a diagnosis code, and receiving a diagnosis code by a gastroenterologist. The model had an area under the curve of 0.87 (95% CI, 0.84–0.89). Conclusions The performance of ICD-9-CM 579.0 alone for identifying CD is extremely poor. Adding other readily available administrative data significantly improves CD case identification. The proposed case finding strategy via administrative databases may facilitate future research on CD.
TECHNICAL NOTE A FRAMEWORK FOR MULTI-SITE DISTRIBUTED SIMULATION AND APPLICATION TO COMPLEX STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

In this technical note, the development of a framework for multi-site distributed simulations is presented. The algorithm is suitable for any combination of physical (laboratory) and analytical (computer) distributed simulations of structures, their foundations and the underlying sub-strata subjected to static and dynamic loading. Two examples of multi-site testing and multi-platform simulation are given. The main contribution in this note is the separation between time-step integration and stiffness formulation, which enables the use of static analysis and testing as modules of the main control module referred to as the simulation coordinator. The approach proposed is intuitive, simple and efficient. It is therefore recommended for use in distributed analysis using different programs, distributed testing facilities (e.g. the NEES equipment sites) or a combination of analysis and testing.
Nursing intervention Research and quality of care: Influencing the future of healthcare

Background Improvement of healthcare in the United States is a national priority. Nursing intervention science can contribute substantially to addressing this priority. Objectives The aim of this study was to describe strategies needed to maximize the base of nursing intervention science. Methods The study involved a review of reports on the state of quality in healthcare and an examination of nurse-led intervention studies funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research aimed at improving healthcare processes and outcomes. Results Nursing has contributed valuable data regarding the meaning of quality from the perspectives of individuals, families, and communities. Increased efforts are needed to ensure that this science informs ongoing initiatives to define, assess, and improve the quality of healthcare. Conclusions Nurse-led intervention research is making significant contributions to the advancement of the science underpinning quality healthcare. However, the message regarding the substantive and unique contributions of this body of work needs to be disseminated more broadly. Future nursing intervention research aimed at improving healthcare quality should consider individual behavior in a broader context, extend the traditional foci of interventions, and be grounded in the sciences of multiple disciplines.
A Form Tolerancing Theory Using Fractals and Wavelets

Tolerancing is a crucial problem for mechanical designers, as it has quality and cost implications on product design. Research in tolerancing has addressed specific areas of the problem, but lacks a theoretical basis. A formal approach for geometric tolerancing with fractal-based parameters has been recently developed. This paper presents an enhanced error profile analysis and synthesis method, based on wavelets, that maintains and extends the use of fractals for surface error abstraction. An overview of the theory of wavelets is provided, and the link between fractals and wavelets is established. Physical test data are used to illustrate the application of wavelet theory to surface profile reconstruction and synthesis. The synthesis methods are then implemented in the functional design of ball-bearing elements, demonstrating the utility of fractal-based tolerancing. Plans for further study and implementation conclude the paper.
Multilayer optics provides laser-plasma-coupling insight.

The Herpin theorem permits the reflectance of an arbitrary medium to be reproduced with a substrate of one complex refractive index overlaid with a coating film of a second complex refractive index and an appropriate thickness. The reflectances of a variety of laser–plasma-coupling experiments can be matched with a simple and physically meaningful procedure for choosing the fitting parameters. For short-pulse experiments, s-light coupling is dominated by substrate interactions at electron densities above critical and p-light coupling is dominated by resonance at the critical density. The weak dependence of resonance absorption on damping is the result of the harmonic-oscillator resonance form. As the plasma scale length becomes vanishingly small, the reflectance is that of the Fresnel equations, but surprisingly small plasma scale lengths have dramatic effects on the p-light reflectance. Film–substrate and WKB models predict similar resonance absorption, where both models are valid approximations and both should agree with multilayer and Helmholtz wave-optics calculations. For plasma scale lengths well below a wavelength, the film–substrate and the vacuum-heating models are closely related.
Method validation of the biochip array technology for synthetic cannabinoids detection in urine

Background: Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are widely-abused cannabimimetic drugs that do not screen positive in traditional cannabinoids immunoassays, making detection difficult. Methods and results: The first commercially-available immunoassay for urinary SC was validated. Limits of detection (5–20 µg/L), imprecision (<13.1% intra-, <37.7% inter-assay), and cross-reactivity profiles of 22 SC and 37 metabolites were obtained. A large negative bias (-80.8 to -28.0%) was observed. Sensitivity (98.3%), specificity (48.1%) and efficiency (53.9%) were determined from screening 20,017 urine specimens and confirming 1432 presumptive positive and 1069 selected negative specimens by LC–MS/MS. Cutoff optimization improved performance to 87.6% sensitivity, 85.2% specificity, and 85.4% efficiency. Conclusion: This high-throughput urine SC assay has good sensitivity and improved specificity and efficiency at modified cutoff concentrations.
A video aided RF localization technique for the wireless capsule endoscope (WCE) inside small intestine

Wireless capsule endoscope (WCE) provides a noninvasive method to examine the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract including small intestine, which other video endoscopic instruments cannot reach. Since the shape of small intestine is extremely complex and the length of small intestine varies from 5 to 9 meters, localization of the WCE inside the small intestine is very challenging. Traditional radio frequency (RF) localization techniques using the received signal strength (RSS) are not able to provide satisfactory location information of the capsule inside the small intestine. In this paper, we present a hybrid localization technique that takes advantage of data fusion from image sequence captured by the WCE's embedded camera and the RSS of the RF signal emitted by the capsule to enhance the positioning accuracy. The proposed method estimates the speed and direction of movement of the capsule by analyzing displacements of feature points between consecutive image frames and this motion information is integrated with RSS measurements by employing a Kalman filter to smooth the RF localization results. Performance of the proposed method is validated under a virtual testbed that emulates the transition of capsule inside small intestine against the traditional RSS-based RF localization.
CMOS VCOs for frequency synthesis in wireless biotelemetry

A new phase noise model was used to optimize a differential ring VCO for minimum power consumption. We compare the phase noise performance of three buffer stages using clamped, symmetric and cross-coupled loads, respectively. We propose a cross-coupled buffer topology that achieves lower phase noise by exploiting symmetry. Measured phase noise for a 1.2 mW, 150 MHz VCO fabricated in 0.5 /spl mu/m CMOS is -103.9 dBc/Hz at 500 kHz offset, showing good agreement with the theory.
Weather related continuity and completeness on deep space Ka-band links: statistics and forecasting

Due to lack of spectrum at 8.41 GHz (X-band) future NASA deep space missions will be using 32 GHz Ka-band. Since combating adverse weather events require prohibitively large margins at Ka-band, link design methods based on maximizing the average data return over the link subject to a minimum link availability have been proposed. Furthermore, weather forecasting has also been suggested as means of combating the weather effects on the link. While the performance of these methods in term of data return has been well-understood, questions have remained about the completeness and continuity performance of the link. In this paper the concept of link "stability" as means of measuring the continuity of the link is introduced and through it, along with the distributions of "good" periods and "bad" periods, the performance of the proposed Ka-band link design method using both forecasting and long-term statistics has been analyzed. The results indicate that the proposed link design method has relatively good continuity and completeness characteristics even when only long-term statistics are used and that the continuity performance further improves when forecasting is employed.
Business as usual: Amazon.com and the academic library

Abstract In 1999, Steve Coffman proposed that libraries form a single interlibrary loan based entity patterned after Amazon.com. This study examined the suitability of Amazon.com’s Web interface and record enhancements for academic libraries. Amazon.com could not deliver circulating monographs in the University at Albany Libraries’ collection quickly enough to satisfy undergraduates.
Surgery without radiotherapy for primary treatment of endometrial cancer.

Objective: To analyze the role of surgery alone, including pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy, in patients with endometrial cancer who did not receive radiotherapy. Methods: Between August 1987 and January 1997, 225 women with disease clinically confined to the uterus were staged surgically by a standard protocol that included pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy in women with high risk factors. No radiation was administered before or after surgery. Results: The combination of preoperative endometrial biopsy grade and gross depth of myometrial invasion identified 123 (55%) high-risk patients who had lymphadenectomy and 102 (45%) low-risk patients who did not. Eighteen (15%) high-risk patients had lymph node metastases and received postoperative systemic therapy. Three low-risk, eight high-risk-node-negative, and no high-risk-node-positive patients were diagnosed with recurrent cancer, corresponding to 5-year recurrence-free proportions of 0.95, 0.89, and 1.00, respectively. Although sample sizes and limited follow-up limit conclusions, the experience to date suggests a high rate of survival in all three groups. Conclusion: Our preliminary experience indicates that even high-risk patients have an excellent prognosis when treated with surgery, including pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy, without radiotherapy.
Hemolymph titers, chromophore association and immunological cross-reactivity of an ommochrome-binding protein from the hemolymph of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta

Abstract A yellow-colored ommochrome-binding protein (OBP) isolated from the hemolymph of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta , appears to derive its color from ommatin D. Ommatin D is the sulfate ester of xanthommatin, the latter being an important metabolite of tryptophan in insects. The polypeptide chain of OBP was immunologically detected in the hemolymph at all stages of the life cycle. However, only during the fifthlarval instar did OBP polypeptide levels in the hemolymph appreciate significantly. The highest OBP polypeptide concentration (approx. 0.45 mg/ml) was observed on the first day of pupation. Thereafter, the concentration of OBP polypeptide gradually decreased in pupal hemolymph. We found that association of chromophore with the OBP polypeptide was transient. In fifth instar wandering stage larvae and in female months, OBP was detectable in the hemolymph. In feeding fifth instar larvae and in male months, only apoOBP was detected (i.e. the OBP polypeptide without the chromophore). During the wandering stage, increasing amounts of chromophore became associated with the OBP polypeptide. No representatives of seven other insect orders contained hemolymph proteins that cross-reacted with anti-OBP antiserum. However, when four other Lepidopteran species were examined, an immunologically-related hemolymph protein of approx. 31 kDa was detected in each animal. Whether these cross-reacting proteins also bind ommochromes remains to be investigated.
Numerical Solution of Boundary Condition to Poisson's Equation and Its Incorporation into the Program Poisson

Two dimensional cartesian and axially-symmetric problems in electrostatics or magnetostatics frequently are solved numerically by means of relaxation techniques -- employing, for example, the program POISSON. In many such problems the "sources" (charges or currents, and regions of permeable material) lie exclusively within a finite closed boundary curve and the relaxation process in principle then could be confined to the region interior to such a boundary -- provided a suitable boundary condition is imposed onto the solution at the boundary. This paper discusses and illustrates the use of a boundary condition of such a nature in order thereby to avoid the inaccuracies and more extensive meshes present when alternatively a simple Dirichlet or Neumann boundary condition is specified on a somewhat more remote outer boundary.
A Computational Observer For Performing Contrast-Detail Analysis Of Ultrasound Images

Contrast-Detail (C/D) analysis allows the quantitative determination of an imaging system's ability to display a range of varying-size targets as a function of contrast. Using this technique, a contrast-detail plot is obtained which can, in theory, be used to compare image quality from one imaging system to another. The C/D plot, however, is usually obtained by using data from human observer readings. We have shown earlier(7) that the performance of human observers in the task of threshold detection of simulated lesions embedded in random ultrasound noise is highly inaccurate and non-reproducible for untrained observers. We present an objective, computational method for the determination of the C/D curve for ultrasound images. This method utilizes digital images of the C/D phantom developed at CDRH, and lesion-detection algorithms that simulate the Bayesian approach using the likelihood function for an ideal observer. We present the results of this method, and discuss the relationship to the human observer and to the comparability of image quality between systems.
The interactive effects of stimulus generalization decrement and contextual pre-exposure cues upon fear incubation

Abstract Models of fear incubation may be described as explanations for the interference of Pavlovian extinction. From this perspective, the effects of several parameters upon the incubation phenomenon were examined. Fear incubation was found to be attenuated by manipulations associated with stimulus generalization decrement (Experiment 1), as well as pre-exposure manipulations (Experiment 2). These findings were incorporated within existing models of incubation.
Internal-return rearrangement in solvolysis of cyclopropylcarbinyl derivatives

The unusual reactivities of cyclopropylcarbinyl derivatives in solvolytic reactions have led to a continuing interest in the details of the reaction mechanism and the structures of the intermediates (1). Conductimetric (2) and titrimetric (3) methods for the rate determinations have increased the precision of the measured rate constants but reliance on kinetic data alone has led to some interpretative oversights.
The annual reproductive cycle of the Barbary Ape (Macaca sylvana) in Gibraltar.

Data collected in Gibraltar demonstrate that Macaca sylvana has both a sharply demarcated mating and a sharply demarcated birth season. The mating season begins in November and may last until March. Births occur between May and September, gestation being of five or six months' duration. The annual reproductive cycle of the Japanese macaque is strikingly similar to that of the Barbary Ape. Matings occur in both areas in the fall, a period of decreased daily temperature and day length. The mating season begins with an increase in rainfall in Gibraltar and with a decrease in rainfall in Japan. From the data presented it seems probable that decreasing day length is the most important ecological factor in the timing of the onset of mating in Barbary Apes and in Japanese macaques.
Institutional coordination of program action: a conceptual analysis

The absence of interagency cooperation represents a major barrier to efficient and effective program action in the public sector. This analysis examines why attempts to achieve institutional coordination can be problematic. Key contextual factors and macro-level issues which may promote or hinder cooperation are identified. A summary of specific mechanisms for institutional coordination and the implementation issues which they raise is provided.
From Joule to Caratheodory and Born: A Conceptual Evolution of the First Law of Thermodynamics

In the years after Joule’s experiment on the equivalence of heat and work, it was taken for granted that heat and work could be independently defined and that the change in energy for a change of state is the sum of the heat and the work. Only with the work of Caratheodory and Born did it become clear that heat cannot be measured independently, that the change in energy is equal to the adiabatic work, and that heat is equal to the difference between energy change and work for a nonadiabatic process for the same change of state.
Middle ear endoscopy and trans-tympanic drug delivery using an interventional sialendoscope: a feasibility study in human cadaveric temporal bones.

Objectives The aim of our study was to assess feasibility of using a 1.3mm semi-rigid interventional salivary endoscope for middle ear endoscopy and as a route for trans-tympanic delivery of medication in human cadaveric temporal bones. Methods Five temporal bones harvested from human cadavers were examined. A 1.3mm diameter 0 degree. Marchal interventional sialendoscope equipped with an interventional channel (0.4 mm) and an irrigation/suction channel was used. Middle ear endoscopy was performed via endoscopic guided postero-inferior and antero-superior myringotomies. The round window niche (RWN) was easily identified, and a guide wire was placed within the RWN. Also, the Eustachian tube orifice was identified and cannulated with a guide wire. Results Access to the RWN was obtained via a postero-inferior myringotomy in all five temporal bones (100%). A guide wire could be navigated to the RWN without difficulty in all patients. The opening to the ET was visualized and could be cannulated with a guide wire in all patients where it was attempted (N=3). Conclusion The 1.3 mm interventional sialendoscope allowed adequate visualization of the ET, middle ear space, and the RWN with interventional capabilities in a cadaveric model. Our result validates the feasibility of its use for trans-tympanic drug delivery. However, the proposed indication for the use of the sialendoscope needs to be evaluated in a clinical setting. Additional cadaveric and human studies are necessary to further investigate additional applications for its use in the field of otolaryngology.
Community Parents' Use of Non-Pharmacological Techniques for Childhood Pain Management

Pain is a common experience; however, there is limited research regarding techniques used by parents to alleviate their children's pain. This study, using an online survey, examines non-pharmacological techniques used by community parents to treat children's pain. Most parents reported the use of at least one technique; most common was comforting the child. Mothers reported using more techniques than fathers. Parents with more concerns about side effects of analgesics reported using a higher number of techniques. These results suggest that health care providers should be aware of techniques used by parents, and indicate a need to evaluate effectiveness of these techniques.
Breast Augmentation with Periareolar Mastopexy

The goals of augmentation and mastopexy are diametrically opposed — volume enhancement with skin envelope reduction — yet they must be combined to yield the best results when breast augmentation alone will not suffice. Multiple variables such as volume, skin amount, nipple position, and inframammary distance must all be accounted for, requiring meticulous planning, staging, and execution. Implant size and amount of skin excision are important decisions. The type of mastopexy includes periareolar or donut mastopexy, lollipop or short-scar vertical limb, and Wise pattern and/or short horizontal scar. Simultaneous augmentation and periareolar mastopexy are effective because enlargement of a breast with an implant helps fill out much of the excess.
PROCESSES TO IDENTIFY THE DEGRADATION MECHANISM OF A SOLID WHICH APPEARS TO UNDERGO A COMPLEX REACTION: FOLIC ACID

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to identify the degradation products for folic acid which may form under thermal stress. An attempt was made to identify each of the decomposition products using various analytical techniques, such as infrared spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction, which suggested that the glutamic acid fragment of folic acid is lost first, as evidenced by acid loss and amide enhancement in the IR spectra. The vitamin was ultimately degrading to carbon fragments and further identification was not necessary.
Isolated third nerve palsy associated with a ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm

Introduction An oculomotor palsy in the setting of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is often due to compression by a posterior communicating artery aneurysm. Anterior communicating artery (ACOM) aneurysms may produce ophthalmologic symptoms of the anterior visual pathways, but rarely ever lead to a 3rd nerve palsy. This report describes a rare case of an isolated oculomotor palsy in a patient who experienced subarachnoid hemorrhage from an ACOM aneurysm. Clinical Presentation: A 46-year-old male presented to the emergency department with headache, emesis, and an isolated left third nerve palsy—the remainder of his exam was normal. A head CT showed diffuse subarachnoid hemorrhage that was later attributed to an ACOM aneurysm as determined by angiography.