cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical Pharmacology in Aged Intensive Care Unit Patients

Elderly patients are presenting themselves for advanced critical care services in ever-increasing numbers due to changing population demographics coupled with advances in medical technology and pharmacology. Medical management of the elderly in critical care settings is complicated by pre-existing multisystem chronic disease, polypharmacy, and age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Three principles in the management of the elderly in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting are discussed: (1) the protection of renal function from common nephrotic drugs; (2) the necessity of altered drug dosing due to changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics; and (3) the necessity of avoiding polypharmacy. Strategies for the prevention of acute renal failure in ICU contrast studies are described. A review of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics in the elderly is presented with examples of commonly seen ICU medication problems.
Mechanical Behavior of Cellular Ceramics

There is a class of ceramics that can be made with very high porosities (∼ 80-90 volume percent). The microstructures of these materials are generally based on tangled networks of fibers or on hollow cells (Green, 1984, 1986). Such materials possess attractive properties for some applications, e.g., low weight, high temperature capability, low thermal conductivity, permeability (unless closed cells), high surface area, etc. A key feature in their use, however, will be their mechanical reliability. The mechanical behavior of these materials is generally modelled by considering the deformation of a unit cell (Green and Lange, 1982, Gibson and Ashby, 1982, Ashby, 1983). This approach allows equations to be developed for many of the mechanical properties. This paper reviews recent work on the mechanical behavior of open cell alumina (Hagiwara and Green, 1986, 1987, Brezny 1988, Dam, 1988). This work has shown that the elastic behavior (Hagiwara and Green, 1987) does follow the predicted behavior (Gibson and Ashby, 1982) but that the properties can be sensitive to the specific microstructure. Moreover, the fracture behavior is complicated by variation in the strength of the cell struts and the presence of closed faces in the cellular structure (Brezny, 1988). Overall, the model proposed by Gibson and Ashby appears to be a useful foundation but that quantitative characterization of the microstructure appears to be necessary to understand the mechanical behavior in depth.
Mexican New York

Rob Smith's book, Mexican New York: Transnational Lives of New Immigrants, makes an important contribution to a growing body of work that examines migration from a transnational perspective. He offers read ers an extended case study, based on over 15 years of field work in the small town of Ticuani in rural Mexico, that illuminates the formation of political community, the negotiation of gender, and the simultaneous incorporation and homeland engagement of the second generation across space. He brings to light lived experiences and processes and the ways local and global forces, structures, and actors influence each other over time. Transnational life, Smith writes, includes those practices and rela tionships that link migrants and nonmigrants to their home countries, "that have significant meaning and are regularly observed," but that are also "embodied in identities and social structures that help form the life world of immigrants and their children and is constructed in relations among people, institutions, and places." Thus, a transnational optic brings into view the social and the cultural, as well as the political and economic; it includes people who migrate and their children, as well as those who stay behind. This book is valuable for several reasons. First, it draws on extensive ethnographic work carried out in at least two of the sites of the transna tional social field in which Ticuanenses are embedded. It has the feel of earlier ethnographies of urban street life (i.e., Sidewalk by Mitch Duneier, The Code of the Street by Elijah Anderson, or In Search of Respect by Philippe Bourgois) with the added virtue that the "street" extends across space. Over time, the interaction between these places produces new forms
A reduced scale naval DC microgrid to support electric ship research and development

Medium voltage dc distribution systems are presently of interest for future naval warships. In order to provide hardware validation for research associated with the development of these systems, the Purdue Reduced-Scale Naval DC Microgrid has been constructed. This paper documents the system being constructed and provides some initial test results.
Adipocyte differentiation-specific gene transcriptional response to C18 unsaturated fatty acids plus insulin

Adipocyte differentiation (AD) and AD-specific gene expression was studied in 3T3-L1 cells in response to oleic acid (OA) or linoleic acid (LA) alone and in combination with insulin. This system facilitated the study of key regulators of adipogenesis PPARγ and C/EBPα and other AD-specific genes, in the absence of dexamethasone (DEX) and isobutyl-1-methyl xanthine (IBMX) (components of the traditional AD medium, DMI). Lipid accumulation and expression levels of AD-specific genes were enhanced by both OA and LA in the presence of insulin but not by OA or LA alone. Gene expression levels of PPARγ, C/EBPα, FABP4, and SREBP1c induced by OA plus insulin, were comparable to DMI medium, by study day 10. The response to long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) plus insulin in the presence or absence of LY294002 demonstrated that the insulin-induced PI 3-kinase pathway regulates AD and AD-specific gene expression levels. Insulin treatment in the presence or absence of genistein suggested that genistein invoked inhibition of AD and AD-specific gene expression. In contrast when LCFA were also included with insulin, the presence of genistein invoked a pronounced and opposite effect on AD to that in the absence of LCFA. This effect may be modulated via C/EBPα as C/EBPα but not PPARγ expression patterns closely reflected the changes in AD. DMI invoked a rapid expression of all genes studied, and LCFA plus insulin invoke more gradual increases in gene expression, to similar levels to those invoked by DMI. The model system is valuable for study of transactivators and response elements of PPARγ and C/EBPα genes.
The dynamics of electrically charged soot particles in a premixed ethylene flame

Abstract A tandem differential mobility analyzer (DMA) is used to measure selectively the size distributions of soot particles carrying 0, ±1, ±2, ±3, and ±4 units of electrical charge. Near soot inception the size distribution is unimodal, with a mean diameter 3 nm , and the particles are electrically neutral. With increasing height above the burner a bimodal size distribution evolves. The lower size mode remains electrically neutral with increasing height in the flame and retains its shape and intensity. In contrast, the upper mode includes progressively higher fractions of charged particles that reach levels of 33% positively and 33% negatively charged. At a fixed height, the size distribution narrows and shifts to a larger diameter as the number of charges per particle increases. At a fixed particle size, the number of charges obeys a Boltzmann distribution which is independent of height in the flame. These dynamics are examined in the context of a coagulation model that includes Coulomb forces and assumes small fractions of +1 and −1 particles are rapidly formed shortly after soot inception. The predictions closely mimic the observed evolution in charged particle size distributions and reproduce the experimentally observed Boltzmann charge distributions.
Corn-Soybean Rotation Systems in the Mississippi Delta: Implications on Mycotoxin Contamination and Soil Populations of Aspergillus flavus

The effect of corn-soybean rotation on mycotoxin contamination in corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill.) grains has not been fully evaluated. Therefore, this research investigated the effect of corn-soybean rotation on aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination in respective grains. The results showed that aflatoxin levels in soybean averaged 2.3, , 0.6, and 6.8&#x2009;ng/g in 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008, while corn aflatoxin levels were 16.7, 37.1, 2.4, and 54.8&#x2009;ng/g, respectively. Aspergillus flavus colonization was significantly greater () in corn (log 1.9, 2.9, and 4.0&#x2009;cfu/g) compared to soybean (, 2.6, and 2.7&#x2009;cfu/g) in 2005, 2007, and 2008, respectively. Aflatoxigenic A. flavus isolates were more frequent in corn than in soybean in all four years. Higher fumonisin levels were found in corn (0.2 to 3.6&#x2009;&#x3bc;g/g) than in soybean (&#x2009;&#x3bc;g/g). Rotating soybean with corn reduces the potential for aflatoxin contamination in corn by reducing A. flavus propagules in soil and grain and reducing aflatoxigenic A. flavus colonization. These results demonstrated that soybean grain is less susceptible to aflatoxin contamination compared to corn due to a lower level of colonization by A. flavus with a greater occurrence of non-aflatoxigenic isolates.
Complications of hinged external fixators of the elbow

Despite the growing use of hinged external fixators of the elbow, there are no studies regarding the complications associated with their application. The purpose of this study is to report our experience with complications with this procedure. Between 1998 and 2005, we reviewed the records of 100 consecutive patients who were treated with hinged external fixators (including 433 pin sites). Complications specifically related to pin placement were recorded. There were 15 patients with minor complications (15%) involving 21 pins (4.8%) and 10 patients with major complications (10%) involving 29 pins (6.7%). Minor complications included local erythema and nonpurulent drainage lasting greater than 5 days in 9 patients (21 pins) and the need for skin release to decrease tension adjacent to pins in 6 patients (9 pins). Major complications included purulent pin site drainage in 1 patient (2 pins), fixator malalignment in 1, pin loosening in 4 (11 pins), and deep infection in 4. There were no fractures around the pin sites or nerve injuries associated with pin placement. With care, articulated external fixators can be used without a high incidence of major complications. Most of the complications were attributed to local pin site infection. Factors clinically associated with an increased risk of deep infection include a history of prior procedures in the post-traumatic elbow and the complexity of the operative technique.
Basal N-nitrosoproline formation and excretion in the ferret

Quantitative balance studies indicated that ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) on purified diets excreted approximately four times more N-nitrosoproline than they ingested. This basal N-nitrosoproline excretion was not dependent on dietary nitrate intake, as high levels of dietary [15N]nitrate did not result in the incorporation of 15N into the excreted N-nitrosoproline. This indicates that there are at least two sources of endogenous N-nitrosoproline formation, one linked to dietary nitrate and one independent of dietary nitrate. The latter may result from an intermediate in the endogenous synthesis of nitrate.
Linear Optical Quantum Information Processing, Imaging, and Sensing

We investigate linear optical approaches to quantum information processing, clarifying how linear optics and projective measurements can be used to create designer optical nonlinearities at the few photon level.
Electrokinetic Transport in Nanochannels. 2. Experiments

We present an experimental study of nanoscale electrokinetic transport in custom-fabricated quartz nanochannels using quantitative epifluorescence imaging and current monitoring techniques. One aim is to yield insight into electrical double layer physics and study the applicability of continuum theory to nanoscale electrokinetic systems. A second aim is to explore a new separation modality offered by nanoscale electrophoretic separations. We perform parametric variations of applied electric field, channel depth, background buffer concentration, and species valence to impose variations on ζ potential, effective mobility, and Debye length among other parameters. These measurements were used to validate a continuum theory-based analytical model presented in the first of this two-paper series. Our results confirm the usefulness of continuum theory in predicting electrokinetic transport and electrophoretic separations in nanochannels. Our model leverages independent measurements of ζ potential performed in a m...
The benefit of early repair for a mycotic aortic aneurysm due to Yersinia enterocolitica infection

Mycotic aortic aneurysms are infrequent but challenging cases. We present a 68-year-old man with evolving infrarenal aortic and right common iliac artery aneurysms from an infection with Yersinia enterocolitica. This is a rare but virulent cause of aortitis. The patient underwent open resection and debridement with anatomic reconstruction using an aortic homograft. He recovered well and quickly returned to normal functional status. This represents the first successful anatomic aortic repair using homograft with this organism. Here, we review the literature and outcomes associated with this unusual pathogen. With favorable anatomy and expedient operative management, good results can be obtained.
Naloxone resistant changes in body temperature of the cat induced by intracerebroventricular injection of pentazocine.

Abstract 1. 1. Injection of pentazocine (125–1000 μg) into the third cerebral ventricle of unrestrained, conscious cats induced an initial hypothermia which lasted 3–4 hr and was followed by a prolonged hyperthermia. Both responses were dose-related. 2. 2. Neither response to pentazocine was inhibited by doses of naloxone hydrochloride up to 1 mg centrally or 5 mg/kg i.v. 3. 3. Hyperthermic responses to morphine were inhibited by doses of nalox one hydrochloride as low as 5 μg centrally or 25 μg/kg i.v. 4. 4. These results indicate that pentazocine alters body temperature in the cat by acting on different receptors than those activated by morphine to cause hyperthermia.
A numerical study of vegetation impact on reducing storm surge by wetlands in a semi-enclosed estuary

Abstract Coastal wetlands play a unique role in extreme hurricane events. The impact of wetlands on storm surge depends on multiple factors including vegetation, landscape, and storm characteristics. The Delft3D model, in which vegetation effects on flow and turbulence are explicitly incorporated, was applied to the semi-enclosed Breton Sound (BS) estuary in coastal Louisiana to investigate the wetland impact. Guided by extensive field observations, a series of numerical experiments were conducted based on variations of actual vegetation properties and storm parameters from Hurricane Isaac in 2012. Both the vegetation-induced maximum surge reduction (MSR) and maximum surge reduction rate (MSRR) increased with stem height and stem density, and were more sensitive to stem height. The MSR and MSRR decreased significantly with increasing wind intensity. The MSRR was the highest with a fast-moving weak storm. It was also found that the MSRR varied proportionally to the expression involving the maximum bulk velocity and surge over the area of interest, and was more dependent on the maximum bulk surge. Both MSR and MSRR appeared to increase when the area of interest decreased from the whole BS estuary to the upper estuary. Within the range of the numerical experiments, the maximum simulated MSR and MSRR over the upper estuary were 0.7 m and 37%, respectively.
Pulse Radiolysis of Methane.

The pulse radiolysis of methane has been studied in the absence and presence of electron scavengers such as SF6 and CD3I and positive ion scavengers such as i-C4D10 in order to define the role of the intermediates H, C, CH, CH2, CH3, CH5+ , and C2H5+ in product formation. The dose rate was varied from 0.68 to 15.2 × 1019 eV/g-s, the dose (number of pulses) was varied, and the duration of the pulse was changed from 3 ns to 100 ns. The variation of the yields of the ethylene and ethane products with dose is explained by the reaction of H-atoms with accumulated ethylene product. The fast reacting C, CH, and 1CH2 species insert into methane to form acetylene, ethylene, and ethane products, but all of the reactions of these species cannot be completely specified since they may originate in upper electronic states, whose reactions with methane are unknown. Product formation by the slow reacting 3CH2 and CH3 radicals is also examined; for instance, evidence is presented for the occurrence of the reaction: 3CH2 + CH3 → C2H4 + H. Results indicate that the ions CH5+ and C2H5+ undergo neutralization mainly through the processes CH5++e→CH4+HC2H5++e→(C2H4)*+H→C2H2+H+H2(2H) When i-C4D10 is added, a fraction of the CH5+ and C2H5+ react with the additive rather than undergo neutralization. A calculation demonstrates that the fraction of ions undergoing reaction with a given concentration of i-C4D10 can be correctly predicted by assuming that the rate constant for neutralization of CH5+ and C2H5+ is the same as that determined recently for the t-butyl ion.
Class Size and Educational Policy: Who Benefits from Smaller Classes?

ABSTRACT The impact of class size on student achievement remains an open question despite hundreds of empirical studies and the perception among parents, teachers, and policymakers that larger classes are a significant detriment to student development. This study sheds new light on this ambiguity by utilizing nonparametric tests for stochastic dominance to analyze unconditional and conditional test score distributions across students facing different class sizes. Analyzing the conditional distributions of test scores (purged of observables using class-size specific returns), we find that there is little causal effect of marginal reductions in class size on test scores within the range of 20 or more students. However, reductions in class size from above 20 students to below 20 students, as well as marginal reductions in classes with fewer than 20 students, increase test scores for students below the median, but decrease test scores above the median. This nonuniform impact of class size suggests that compen...
What is the value of screening for prostate cancer in the US

This Viewpoint assesses whether prostate cancer screening within the US is justifiable outside clinical trials. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) values may fluctuate for physiologic reasons and the natural history of the disease varies between individuals. PSA testing increasingly identifies too many cases of indolent disease that would never have threatened patients' lives.
How Concentration and Crowding Impact Protein Stability: Insights From a Coarse-Grained Model

Much of the current understanding of the protein folding problem derives from studies of proteins in dilute solutions. However, in many systems of scientific and engineering interest, proteins must fold in concentrated, heterogeneous environments. Cells are crowded with many molecular species, and chaperones often sequester proteins and promote rapid folding. Proteins are also present in high concentrations in the manufacture, storage, and delivery of biotherapeutics. How does crowding generally affect the stability of the native state? Are all crowding agents created equal? If not, can generic structural or chemical features forecast their effects on protein stability?Copyright © 2008 by ASME
The healing magic of myth: Allegorical tales and the treatment of children of divorce

Children of divorce experience a sense of loss of the intact family which had stabilized their lives. Painful thoughts and feelings may result in defensive resistance of treatment techniques which deal too directly with their situation. This paper explores the use of allegorical tales in the treatment of children of divorced parents. It contrasts the use of such tales with traditional bibliotherapy and with Gardner's (1971) Mutual Story Telling, suggesting that myth and metaphor provide a road around resistance by presenting a cognitive bridge between themes common in the stories and the life experiences of the child of divorce.
Effects of steric bulk and conformational rigidity on fatty acid omega hydroxylation by a cytochrome P450 4A1 fusion protein

Abstract The action of cytochrome P450 4A1 (CYP4A1) on fatty acid substrates is characterized by a pronounced regioselectivity for ω-hydroxylation. To elucidate the chemical basis of this specificity we probed the active site of a CYP4A1 fusion protein (f4A1) with bulky and/or rigid analogs of lauric acid, the optimum natural substrate for f4A1 and CYP4A1. f4A1 efficiently ω-hydroxylates lauric acid, epoxidizes 11-dodecenoic acid, and oxidizes 11-dodecynoic acid to 1,12-dodecanedioic acid. Medium length fatty acids having ω-terminal groups as large as t -butyl or m -tolyloxy bind tightly to f4A1 as Type I ligands and are efficiently hydroxylated on their methyl termini. ω-Phenylnonanoic acid also induces a Type I binding spectrum ( K s = 0.77 μ m ) but fails to undergo hydroxylation and strongly inhibits lauric acid hydroxylation by f4A1. Slightly shorter acids such as ω-phenyloctanoic acid, naproxen, and ibuprofen also strongly inhibit lauric acid hydroxylation but do not induce a Type I spectrum and do not undergo hydroxylation. Like 10-methoxydecanoic acid, the rigid and rod-like 4′-methoxy-4-biphenylcarboxylic acid is O-demethylated by f4A1, which also ω-hydroxylates m - and p -heptyloxybenzoic acids but not m - or p -amyloxyhydrocinnamic acids. The histamine antagonist cimetidine and the peroxisome proliferator perfluorodecanoic acid are both potent inhibitors of f4A1. Thus the active site of f4A1 is quite tolerant of steric bulk and rigidity around the heme region and the polar group recognition site, but perhaps less so in the midchain region. Although CYP4A enzymes are not usually regarded as “drug metabolizing P450s,” the fact that commonly used therapeutic agents strongly inhibit lauric acid ω-hydroxylation by f4A1 as well as liver microsomes from clofibrate-induded rats suggests these and related agents could potentially interfere with the contribution of CYP4A enzymes to the metabolism of endogenous lipids.
An in vitro approach to studying cutaneous metabolism and disposition of topically applied xenobiotics

The extent to which cutaneous metabolism may be involved in the penetration and fate of topically applied xenobiotics was examined by metabolically viable and structurally intact mouse skin in organ culture. Evidence that skin penetration of certain chemicals is coupled to cutaneous metabolism was based upon observations utilizing [14C]benzo[a]pyrene (BP). As judged by the recovery of radioactivity in the culture medium 24 hr after in vitro topical application of [14C]BP to the skin from both control and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-induced C3H mice, skin penetration of BP was higher in the induced tissue. All classes of metabolites of BP were found in the culture medium; water-soluble metabolites predominated and negligible amounts of unmetabolized BP were found. As shown by enzymatic hydrolysis of the medium, TCDD induction resulted in shifting the cutaneous metabolism of BP toward the synthesis of more water-soluble conjugates. Differences in the degree of covalent binding of BP, via diol epoxide intermediates to epidermal DNA, from control and induced tissues were observed. These differences may reflect a change in the pathways of metabolism as a consequence of TCDD induction. These results indicated that topically applied BP is metabolized by the skin during its passage through the skin; and the degree of percutaneous penetration and disposition of BP was dependent upon the metabolic status of the tissue. This suggests that cutaneous metabolism may play an important role in the translocation and subsequent physiological disposition of topically applied BP.
Discrepancy Between Ideal and Realistic Goal Weights in Three Bariatric Procedures: Who Is Likely to Be Unrealistic?

Patients choose to undergo bariatric surgery for a variety of medical and psychosocial reasons. However, the majority of bariatric surgery candidates have unrealistic weight loss goals, and certain subgroups within this population may be more likely to endorse such beliefs. This study examines weight loss expectations in patients undergoing three different weight loss procedures (laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy). Between October 2007 and June 2008, 114 patients (81.6% female) underwent weight loss surgery. At entry into the program, patients identified their postsurgical goal weights. “Realistic” weights were calculated based on patients' presurgical excess weights and expected loss based upon their surgical procedure. Patient [mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) = 48.89] weight loss discrepancies were quite variable with “realistic” versus “dream” weight discrepancies ranging from 0.34 to 71.11 kg (M = 28.79 kg; SD = 13.21 kg). The mean was equivalent to losing 106% (SD = 0.15%) of excess body weight. Baseline BMI, female gender, younger age, and Caucasian ethnicity accounted for up to 62% of the variance in discrepancy scores. After controlling for initial BMI, there were no differences in discrepancies based upon type of surgery. Across all three surgery types, women, Caucasians, younger patients, and those with higher initial BMIs were more likely to have unrealistic goals. Informed consent procedures should help patients, particularly those most likely to be unrealistic, understand likely outcomes as part of education on risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.
Microsurgical research—a personal experience

The author recounts his 38 years in microsurgical research from the early days of needle and instrument development to the first successful experimental and clinical microvascular transplants. Selected projects are discussed relating to microvascular thrombosis, vascular spasm and various experimental models in the rat, rabbit and rhesus monkey in an anecdotal fashion.
Effect of Massive Doses of Adrenal Cortical Hormone on the Albino Rat.

ConclusionThe negative results obtained from the feeding of niassive doses of charcoal adsorblate, prepared from bleef adrenal cortex may indicate that the sulrstance in the adrenal cortex, which stiniulates the reproductive system, is a different hormone from that demonstrated by Harrop1 as affecting the metabolism of salt and water and it may not be extracted by the methods at present in use for extracting the latter. The excellent condition of the experimental animals is evidence that the substance is not toxic.
The spotty record of the Hyogo Framework for Action: Understanding the incentives of natural disaster politics and policy making

Abstract Given the increasing prevalence of large-scale natural disasters, why has progress implementing the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) been so varied and so spotty? This paper explores this question using an analytical framework developed in the economic and political science literature on collective action. As public goods vary across their levels of publicness and their aggregation technologies, so do many of the inherent incentives associated with countries fulfilling their pledges in the HFA. Thus, the framework helps explain why some of the HFA's priorities for action have been and will continue to be more easily attainable than others.
Some lessons learned in early efforts to solve integral equations numerically

In this paper is presented a very brief overview of important integral equations in electromagnetics and of numerical techniques for solving these equations. Emphasis is to be upon the many lessons learned by the author and his colleagues as they — at least, he — struggled to understand how to formulate equations amenable to numerical solution methods and how to develop efficient and robust techniques for solving these equations. The presentation will be in three parts.
High Performance Zeolite LTA Pervaporation Membranes on Ceramic Hollow Fibers by Dipcoating-Wiping Seed Deposition

We demonstrate for the first time that by one single hydrothermal synthesis a zeolite LTA membrane with a high flux of 9.0 kg/m(2) h and high water/ethanol separation factor of 10,000 could be formed on a ceramic hollow fiber that is known for its ability to form a compact module. The flux is the highest reported in the literatures. A novel seeding method, dipcoating-wiping, is key to obtaining zeolite membranes with high separation performance because it reproducibly produces a uniform and trace seed layer on the support. This new seeding method is expected to have serious implications for making defect-free zeolite films and membranes for many applications. The membranes reported here have the potential to solve the key problems that have prevented zeolite membranes from widespread use for biofuel production.
Changing milieu and in situ locational adjustment: A case study of Pacific Northwest iron and steel firms

An important type of firm location decision is the in site or in place locational adjustment. The dynamic nature of the economic milieu necessitates continued reassessment and reorganization of internal resources by the firm. Economic geographers have become increasingly interested in the in site adjustment process and the conditions associated with various types of “adjustment paths” followed by firms. This study of twenty-one Pacific Northwest iron and steel firms during an eight year period identifies two types of in site locational adjustments made under varied conditions of economic growth by firms of different size, product mix and competitive position.
On the Hypoellipticity of Differential Forms with Isolated Singularities

Hypoellipticity for a class of germs of ℂ-valued, real-analytic 1-forms with an isolated singularity is studied. The main result states that in dimension ≥3 such forms are real-analytic hypoelliptic over Lp functions, but are not real-analytic hypoelliptic in dimension 2. The case of C∞-hypoellipticity for a class of rotation invariant forms in ℝ2 is also considered.
Information systems: theoretical development and research approaches

Abstract This article reviews the theoretical development in the field of information systems. Although the field has evolved and gained importance in many graduate curricula, there do not exist any well-accepted common theoretical bases for information systems education. This paper discusses the reasons for the absence of a standard and well established framework for information systems. The paper goes on to provide alternate approaches to viewing information systems and conducting information systems reasearch. Such a broad, yet integrated, framework will allow the field of information systems to evolve and continually enrich itself.
Numerical method for the calculation of continuum excitation amplitudes in time-dependent external field problems

We introduce a new numerical method for calculating continuum excitation probabilities of complex physical systems under the influence of external, time-dependent, and nonperturbative fields. The method utilizes a discretized form of the Hamiltonian on a space lattice and is particularly suited for large scale computations involving many-body systems. We perform a comparative study for a model problem by solving the same time-dependent Schr\"odinger equation in spherical and cylindrical coordinates. As a realistic example, we apply the method to the problem of prompt nucleon emission in low energy heavy-ion reactions.
Modifying Problematic Mealtime Interactions of Children with Cystic Fibrosis and Their Parents Via Behavioral Parent Training

Implemented behavioral parent training targeting maladaptive mealtime behavior with two children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and their parents. Treatment was implemented in multiple baseline fashion across the two families. Primary dependent measure was coding of parent and child behaviors from videotaped dinners. Data were also collected on the children's daily calorie intake and weight. During treatment and at the posttreatment follow-ups, parents' attention to disruptive behavior decreased, attention to appropriate eating increased, and parental control at meals increased. The children showed an increase in appropriate behavior and a decrease in disruptive behavior; caloric intake and weight also improved. Results are discussed in terms of the applicability of behavioral intervention with feeding problems in children with CF.
Regulation of frying fats and oils

Publisher Summary There has been increased recognition that improper use of frying fats degrades the fat and reduces the quality of fried food. However, there are no worldwide regulations and guidelines for control of frying fat. Although no regulations have been established in the United States, a number of European countries promulgated specific laws and regulations. In addition, the Swedish Food Regulations include an ordinance with general advice on how to handle frying fat and oil. Deep fat frying is a complex method of food preparation in which many reactions occur, resulting in oxidative and hydrolytic degradation and polymerization of the oil. Many studies in the past 50 years showed that thermally oxidized oil affects the growth of test animals. Conversely, additional studies indicated that optimal frying conditions cause no significant change in the fatty acid composition of the frying oil and no toxicity in test animals. Formal laws and regulations for control of frying fat quality have been adopted by only a few countries. Several other countries, however, employ practical guidelines and test procedures to control the quality of frying fats and fried food. In addition, there is increasing awareness that good frying practice and proper control of frying fat improve the quality and acceptability of fried food. Guidelines for handling frying fat and on-site tests to check fat quality are useful tools for overall food sanitation and quality control programs worldwide.
Learning to Love Your Discovery Tool: Strategies for Integrating a Discovery Tool in Face-To-Face, Synchronous, and Asynchronous Instruction

Some librarians embrace discovery tools while others refuse to use them. This lack of consensus can have consequences for student learning when there is inconsistent use, especially in large-scale instruction programs. The authors surveyed academic librarians whose institutions have a discovery tool and who teach information literacy classes in order to identify barriers to using them and to develop strategies to effectively integrate them into instruction. The authors used the survey results and recent studies on the research habits of undergraduates to propose strategies for integrating the discovery tool at the programmatic level in a more meaningful and sustainable way.
Virulence profile: Frederick M Ausubel.

As I remember it was in the second grade when I learned about trilobites and dinosaurs. Although I had a terrible biology course in high school, I read a book by Ralph Buchsbaum called Animals With...
CARDIAC-SPECIFIC TRANSGENIC SILENCING OF NF-KB AMELIORATES LEFT VENTRICULAR DYSFUNCTION AND REMODELING AFTER ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

After an acute myocardial infarction (MI), the left ventricle (LV) undergoes remodeling with progressive deterioration in function. The role of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kB) signaling in the genesis of ischemic heart failure remains unclear. We examined the role of NF-kB in post-MI cardiomyopathy
Design optimization of single-sided axial flux permanent magnet machines by differential evolution

In this paper, a design optimization approach for single-sided axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) machines using a differential evolution algorithm for is presented. The objectives of the design optimization are to maximize the output torque per unit cost (Nm/$) and maximize the efficiency. A paremetric 2-D FEA model of an AFPM is built. A sensitivity study of design variables is carried out to determine the correlation between the design variables and the objectives, enabling the removal of insignificant design variables. Design constraints including geometrical and operating limits are considered. A total of five independent variables are employed in the optimization process. The optimization result is compared with a prototype design and results verified by 3-D FEA simulations. Index Terms—axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) machines, design optimization, differential evolution, sensitivity study. the flux weakening area. In (10), an optimal design practice for an IPM machine with a modular stator structure based on finite element analysis (FEA) and different evolution is discussed. Both a single and a multi-objective of maximize the torque and minimum THD of back EMF process is implemented. In (11), an automated machine design process with differential evolution techniques is proposed to maximum the torque and efficiency. In (12), (13), a bi-objective optimization of a PM machine with 11 parameter variables using computationally efficient-FEA and differential evolution, to minimize torque ripple and maximize the torque per unit volume is presented. Four different machine topologies are evaluated by comparing their Pareto-optimal design sets. In (14), a multi-objective optimization of a surface PM motor with 5 variables is used to minimize of total weight and maximize a goodness function, which is defined as torque per root square of losses at rated load. The results using differential evolution(DE) is compared with results using the response surface(RS) method. It is shown that DE has a better capability for dealing with a large number of candidate designs. In (15), an optimal design by differential evolution of a surface PM machine with 8 variables and the objective of minimzing the cost of active materials per unit efficiency is presented. Stopping criteria for the DE algorithm are discussed based on both the solution space and thedesign space. In (16), a combined design of Design of Experiments and DE is implemented for the optimization of a 12 slot,8 pole, spoke type ferrite permanent magnet machines. This paper will provide insights into the design optimization for axial flux machines by means of a multi-objective differ- ential evolution algorithm. A sensitivity study of the design variables is studied. A total of five independent significant variables are employed in the design. Design objectives are to maximize the output torque cost(Nm/$) and efficiency. Optimization results are compared with a prototype design.
Nanochannel array plastics with tailored surface chemistry.

The utilization of nanoporous substrates in applications such as selective ion transport, biomolecule separation, seeded templating, and catalysis necessitates the ability to efficiently control pore surface properties. We approached this task by preparing nanoporous polymer monoliths from ABC triblock copolymer precursors that assemble into a cylindrical morphology, where the A block constitutes matrix, C is the removable minor component, and B provides the functionality on the surface of the pores. Polystyrene−polydimethylacrylamide−polylactide (PS−PDMA−PLA) triblock copolymers were prepared by a combination of controlled ring-opening and free-radical polymerization techniques. After selective etching of the PLA cylinders from shear-aligned monoliths, a nanoporous polystyrene matrix containing a hexagonally packed array of hydrophilic, PDMA-coated channels was obtained. Extremely high degrees of alignment and order could be attained, and nanoporous substrates with second-order orientation factors of as ...
Human B cell lines express the interferon gamma gene.

Abstract Interferon γ (IFN-γ) production has been attributed exclusively to activated T cells and NK cells. We sought to determine whether human B cells express IFN-γ. We studied 28 B cell lines including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) + normal lymphoblastoid B cell lines ( N = 7), EBV + B cell lines derived from patients with Burkitt's lymphoma with ( N = 6) or without AIDS ( N = 8), as well as seven EBV − B cell lines. All cell lines were studied by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We detected constitutive expression of IFN-γ in every B cell line. The tumor promoters PMA and teleocidin appeared to enhance this IFN-γ expression in nearly every B cell line. The 517 bp amplicons spanning the entire protein coding region of the IFN-γ mRNA from three representative lines were sequenced, definitively establishing that B cell IFN-γ is identical to IFN-γ from activated T cells and is not altered by derivation of the B cell lines from AIDS patients or by EBV status. Detection of IFN-γ in the entire panel of EBV + and EBV − cell lines suggests that the IFN-γ gene is broadly expressed by human B cells. Our data imply that human B cells can be activated to produce IFN-γ, further enmeshing B cells in the dynamics of immunoregulation.
Measuring information loss due to inconsistencies in duration data from longitudinal surveys

Abstract In this paper, we take a functional errors-in-variables approach to modeling longitudinal duration data containing observed inconsistencies. This approach separates the problem into two parts: an errors-in-variables problem and an estimation problem. This approach also enables us to develop measures of the effect of the data inconsistencies on the parameter estimates from a duration model. One measure is the loss in precision in the parameter estimates that results from the inconsistencies. We refer to the proportion of parameter variances that is due to the inconsistencies in the data as information loss. The second is a distance measure which is used to provide information about how close we are to a consistent estimator. An example is provided using a four-month panel of Current Population Survey data.
CHARACTERISTICS OF CHILD SAFETY SEAT USERS

Direct observation of child restraint use was combined with interviews and mail questionnaires to measure prevalence of various child restraint practices and factors related to use of child safety seats and seat belts for children under the age of four. Trained observers assessed multiple dimensions of child restraint practices for a sample of motorists entering fast-food parking lots in Michigan. On-site interviews and follow-up questionnaires measured sociodemographic, attitudinal, belief, and behavioral characteristics related to restraint use. Ninety-two percent of infants under age 1 and 55% of children age 1 to 3 were traveling in a child safety seat. Public support for the mandatory child restraint law was very high--9 out of 10 believed it should be strictly enforced. Child restraint use was lower than average among motorists who: (1) had low family incomes, (2) were not currently married, (3) were of nonwhite ethnic backgrounds, and (4) were over the age of 40. A shift in social norms appears to have occurred in recent years, such that restraint of young children traveling in cars is now socially expected behavior. Recommendations include: (1) continuing educational efforts to increase knowledge of mandatory child restraint use laws, and (2) increased enforcement of mandatory child restraint use laws.
Omentum is highly effective in the management of complex cardiothoracic surgical problems.

Abstract Objectives: Vascularized, pedicled tissue flaps are often used for cardiothoracic surgical problems complicated by factors that adversely affect healing, such as previous irradiation, established infection, or steroid use. We reviewed our experience with use of the omentum in these situations to provide a yardstick against which results with other vascularized flaps (specifically muscle flaps) could be compared. Methods: A retrospective review was undertaken of 85 consecutive patients in whom omentum was used in the chest. In 47 patients (group I), use of omentum was prophylactic to aid in the healing of closures or anastomoses considered to be at high risk for failure. In 32 patients (group II), omentum was used in the treatment of problems complicated by established infection. In 6 patients (group III), omentum was used for coverage of prosthetic chest wall replacements after extensive chest wall resection. Results: Overall, omental transposition was successful in its prophylactic or therapeutic purpose in 88% of these difficult cases (75/85). Success with omentum was achieved for 89% of patients (42/47) in group I, 91% of patients (29/32) in group II, and 67% of patients (4/6) in group III. Three patients (3.5%) had complications of omental mobilization. Four patients (4.7%) died after the operation as a result of failure of the omentum to manage the problem for which it was used. Conclusions: Results with omental transposition compare favorably with published series of similarly challenging cases managed with muscle transposition. Complications of omental mobilization are rare. We believe that its unique properties render the omentum an excellent choice of vascularized pedicle in the management of the most complex cardiothoracic surgical problems. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2003;125:526-32
Bioenergetic aspects of bacteriophage replication in the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas capsulata

Abstract The energy requirements for replication of the virulent bacteriophage RC1 in the nonsulfur purple photosynthetic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas capsulata were investigated. The host bacterium can grow either with energy obtained by photophosphorylation (anaerobically) or aerobic (dark) oxidative phosphorylation, and the conditions of growth influence the relative capacities of the alternative energy-converting systems. These capacities are, in turn, reflected in the ability of infected cells to support virus growth under photosynthetic or aerobic, dark circumstances. In photosynthetically grown host cells, phage replication is supported by both kinds of energy conversion; anaerobically, virus growth in illuminated infected cells is markedly suppressed by inhibitors of photophosphorylation (or by transfer of the infected cells to darkness before the end of the latent period). When the cells are cultivated aerobically in darkness, synthesis of the photosynthetic pigment system is greatly diminished; in such organisms, the energy for growth of phage RC1 can be supplied by oxidative phosphorylation, but the anaerobic photophosphorylation capacity of the cells does not suffice. Other results obtained indicate that the energy requirement for phage RC1 multiplication is more stringent than that for (uninfected) host cell growth. We suggest that nonsulfur purple bacteria-phage systems may offer unique advantages for further study of the bioenergetics of phage growth, and may also be useful for investigation of the in vivo development of energy-converting membranes.
Modeling microbubble production rates from expanding nozzle flow-focusing microfluidic devices

Flow-focusing microfluidic devices (FFMDs) have been reported to produce monodisperse microbubbles with tunable diameters determined by device geometry and input flow/pressure conditions. However, no model for microbubble production rate has yet been reported. In this paper, we develop a model describing the production rate of monodisperse spherical microbubbles from planar two-dimensional PDMS-based expanding-nozzle FFMDs as a function of gas pressure and liquid flow rate. High speed optical microscopy was used to determine the diameter and production rate. Microbubble generation was observed to occur in five discrete regimes. Within the spherical monodisperse regime, the generation cycle was characterized by two phases: bubbling and waiting. The generation cycle was found to be inversely proportional to liquid flow rate for a fixed gas pressure. Excellent agreement was found between predicted and measured microbubble production rate (R2 = 0.91).