cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Liposomal Benzoporphyrin Derivative Verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy: Selective Treatment of Choroidal Neovascularization in Monkeys

Purpose: The authors have previously shown that photodynamic therapy (PDT) using lipoprotein-delivered benzoporphyrin derivative mono-acid (BPD) effectively closed experimental choroidal neovascularization (CNV). In the current study, the authors used a clinical preparation, liposomal BPD verteporfin in the same model, with experiments designed to establish optimal dye and light doses, and the timing of laser light irradiation after dye injection, for effective and selective closure of CNV. Methods: Experimental CNV was induced in the maculae of cynomolgus monkeys. Liposomal BPD verteporfin was injected intravenously at doses of 1.0, 0.5, 0.375, and 0.25 mg/kg. Laser light at 692 nm then was applied to CNV, with an irradiance of 600 mW/cm 2 and fluence of 150 J/cm 2 , at various times after dye injection, ranging from 5 to 120 minutes. Treatment effect was assessed by fundus photography and fluorescein angiography and confirmed by light and electron microscopy. The PDT of experimental CNV was studied to assess efficacy; PDT performance on normal eyes was studied to investigate selectivity. Results: The CNV closure was demonstrated by fluorescein angiography and histopathologic findings at all tested dye doses. A dye dose of 0.375 mg/kg, with laser light irradiation applied 20 to 50 minutes after dye injection, optimized CNV closure with minimal retinal and choroidal damage. No major local adverse effects were noted, and the drug was well tolerated systematically. Conclusions: Liposomal BPD verteporfin is a potent photosensitizer, and PDT using this dye is a potentially effective and selective treatment for CNV.
Detection of Spurious Maxima through Random Draw Tests and Specification Tests

Consistent estimation requires finding the global maximum of some specified objective function. Local maxima are often easy to find, but do not necessarily yield consistent estimates. In many nonlinear applications, the researcher can rarely be certain that a found local maximum is global. This paper examines the ability of random draw tests and specification tests to detect spurious maxima. For random draw tests we analyze Veall (1990) and a test introduced here based on a generalized beta distribution. Specification tests routinely used by researchers are also examined as methods for detecting spurious maxima. Monte Carlo results are reported on various test functions. The results suggest that specification testa are more useful than the random draw tests for detecting spurious maxima.
Patterns of gestational weight gain related to fetal growth among women with overweight and obesity

Objective Maternal obesity is associated with increased risk of large-for-gestational-age (LGA) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births. Both are related to childhood obesity. This study considers that the patterns of gestational weight gain (GWG) may help to disentangle these competing risks. Methods Patterns of GWG were characterized among a cohort of women with overweight or obesity (n = 651). Polytomous logistic regression models were tested for associations between GWG patterns and birth weight outcomes: SGA ( 90th percentile). Results Rates of SGA were higher than those for LGA (14.9% vs. 7.8%). Four GWG patterns were identified: consistently high (29%), early adequate/late high (33%), consistently adequate (18%), and consistently low (20%). Risk of LGA was highest in women with consistently high GWG (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.62 [1.53, 13.96]), and risk was elevated, but with lower magnitude, among women with early adequate/late high gains (OR 3.07 [1.01, 9.37]). High GWG before 20 weeks, regardless of later gain, was related to LGA. Low gain before 20 weeks accompanied by high gain later may be associated with reduced SGA risk (0.55 [0.29, 1.07]). Conclusions The pattern of weight gain during pregnancy may be an important contributor to or marker of abnormal fetal growth among women with overweight or obesity.
An Anisotropic Material Model for Image Guided Neurosurgery

In order to combine preoperative data with intraoperative scans for image-guided neurosurgery visualization, accurate registration is necessary. It has been determined previously that a suitable way to model the non-rigid deformations due to brain shift is via a biomechanical model that treats the brain as a homogeneous, isotropic, linear elastic solid. This work extends that model-based non-rigid registration algorithm to take into account the underlying white matter structure, derived from diffusion tensor MRI, to more accurately model the brain. Experiments performed on retrospective surgical cases were used to evaluate the results of the registration algorithm in comparison to the earlier model.
Simple design of selected 3-element converters by scaling the solution of the LC parallel resonant converter

An efficient and practical method for steady-state design of selected 3-element parallel resonant DC/DC power converters is presented. To a good approximation, the output voltage and current of an LLC converter can be obtained by multiplying the output voltage or current of the parallel LC converter by a ratio of the parallel and series inductances. The LLC converters with and without an output filter inductor are examined for various conduction modes. The peak voltage and current stresses on the resonant elements also depend on the same ratio. An experimental LLC-type parallel resonant power converter is built to further ensure the validity of derived equations and the feasibility of removing the filtering inductor.
Tactical ballistic missile tracking using the interacting multiple model algorithm

The problem of tracking a tactical ballistic missile is complicated by the varying target dynamics in the boost, exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric phases of flight. A single Kalman filter tuned for constant velocity or constant acceleration is not based upon the correct underlying physical model of these dynamics. By including models with all of the correct dynamics, an interacting multiple model (IMM) simultaneously weights all of them and adapts to the one most closely matching the data based upon measurement residuals. A multiple-sensor application of this algorithm requires either a single IMM driven by measurements from all sensors (measurement fusion) or an IMM for each sensor driven by its own measurements, followed by fusion across sensors (track fusion). This paper develops a tactical ballistic missile tracker within an IMM framework and gives an example of the measurement fusion approach for a simulated trajectory and simulated sensor geometry.
Definición de las prestaciones: del catálogo a la ordenación

Resumen La propuesta de elaboracion de un “catalogo” de prestaciones del Sistema Nacional de Salud pone de relieve algunos problemas, politicos y tecnicos, relacionados con su puesta en practica. En este trabajo se examinan seis de estos elementos que se consideran relevantes para el desarrollo de esta estrategia: el instrumento para llevar a cabo esta definicion, el gasto sanitario, la eficiencia del sistema, el acceso a los servicios, la calidad de los servicios y el proceso de toma de decisiones para la definicion de las prestaciones. Se concluye que un sistema de ordenacion simple, evitando el establecimiento de un catalogo detallado, se adapta a las necesidades del Sistema Nacional de Salud.
Debating China's Economic Growth: The Beijing Consensus or The Washington Consensus

Executive Overview This paper presents two competing views on China's growth experience over the past three decades. For the sake of illustrative ease and brevity I label these two opposing views as the Beijing Consensus and the Washington Consensus. The Beijing Consensus interprets China's economic growth as a function of innovations in the state sector, including close financial controls, state ownership of firms, and political controls in favor of economic growth. The Washington Consensus views China's experience much the same as growth experiences elsewhere—that is, as a result of financial liberalization, private entrepreneurship, and political opening. Contrary to the established views among China scholars, this paper argues that the Washington Consensus view fits with the Chinese growth experience better.
Incidence of seizures or epilepsy after clipping or coiling of ruptured and unruptured cerebral aneurysms in the nationwide inpatient sample database: 2002-2007.

BACKGROUND It is not clear whether treatment modality (clipping or coiling) affects the risk of seizures after treatment for cerebral aneurysms. OBJECTIVE To determine whether there is an increased risk of seizures after clipping vs coiling. METHODS Hospitalizations for clipping or coiling of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms were identified in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database for 2002 to 2007 by International Classification of Diseases 9th Revision codes for subarachnoid hemorrhage or unruptured cerebral aneurysm and codes for clipping or coiling. Clipping and coiling were compared for the combined primary endpoint of seizures or epilepsy. The analysis was adjusted for patient-specific and hospital-specific factors using generalized linear models with generalized estimated equations. RESULTS There were 10 899 hospitalizations for ruptured aneurysms (6593 clipping, 4306 coiling), and 9686 hospitalizations for unruptured aneurysms (4483 clipping, 5203 coiling). For ruptured aneurysm patients, clipping had a similar incidence of seizures or epilepsy compared with coiling (10.7% vs 11.1%, respectively, adjusted odds ratio: 0.596; 95% confidence interval: 0.158-2.248; P = .445 after adjustment for patient-specific and hospital-specific factors). For unruptured aneurysm patients, clipping was associated with a significantly higher risk of seizures or epilepsy (9.2%) compared with coiling (6.2%) (adjusted odds ratio: 1.362; 95% confidence interval: 0.155-1.606; P < .001 after adjustment for patient-specific and hospital-specific factors). Seizures or epilepsy were significantly associated with longer hospitalizations (P < .01) and higher hospital charges (P < .0001), except in coiled unruptured aneurysm patients, in which seizures or epilepsy were not significantly associated with hospital charges (P = .31). CONCLUSION In unruptured cerebral aneurysm patients, clipping is associated with a higher risk of seizures or epilepsy.
In Vitro Antifungal Susceptibility Testing and Measurement of Levels of Antifungal Agents in Body Fluids

Interpretation of in vitro susceptibility data for antifungal drugs is hindered by the absence of standardized test criteria. Thus, it is extremely difficult to identify a clear relation between minimal inhibitory concentrations and clinical outcome. The situation appears more readily resolvable for yeast-like than for filamentous fungi since the former are more easily quantified by standardized microbiologic techniques. Accordingly the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards has initiated the process of developing standards for yeast susceptibility testing. A related issue concerns the measurement of antifungal agents in body fluids. Whereas there may be little value in measuring concentrations of amphotericin B (because of its predictable pharmacokinetics), there is value to measuring levels of flucytosine (serum concentrations may relate to bone marrow suppression and/or the development of drug resistance) and ketoconazole (which may be absorbed unpredictably from the gut). Laboratory standards for these measurements have not been established.
Hemophagocytosis by neoplastic plasma cells in multiple myeloma

![Figure][1] A 61-year-old woman presented to her physician with fatigue. A complete blood count showed mild normocytic anemia. Serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation identified an immunoglobulin G κ paraprotein (2.1 g/dL). Laboratory values for calcium, blood urea nitrogen,
Dairy intake and anthropometric measures of body fat among children and adolescents in NHANES.

Objective: To explore the relation between dairy intake and body fat among children and adolescents.Materials and Methods: Children (5–11 years) and adolescents (12–16 years) were included who had data on diet, anthropometry measures of body fat, and relevant potential confounders (children: n = 3,864 and 2,231; adolescents: n = 1,884 and 2,636 in NHANES III and NHANES 1999–2002, respectively). Each child's daily dairy intake from 24-hour recalls was classified as low, moderate or high. For girls and boys, respectively: low intake: <1 and <2 servings; moderate intake: 1–<3 and 2–<4 servings; and high intake: ≥3 and ≥4 servings per day.) Analysis of covariance was used to control for potential confounding by age, gender, socio-economic status, race/ethnicity, height and television watching.Results: Among children, there was no consistent association between dairy intake and anthropometric indices of body fat. Among adolescents, the lowest dairy intake group (< one serving per day for girls and < two per da...
Accountant's tales

Abstract This essay explores the genre of didactic accounting fiction, and, the contributions to accounting scholarship of a recent novel (Collett, I.W., & Forgione, D. (1998). Costly reflections in a midas mirror . Sun Lakes: Thomas Horton & Daughters), and novella (Loebbecke, J.K. (1998a). The auditor: An instructional novella . Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall).
Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan staining in astrocyte-schwann cell co-cultures

Transplantation of Schwann cells (SCs) in the central nervous system (CNS) for remyelination in pathological situations has been considered a promising approach. However, numerous studies have indicated that astrocytes have a restrictive effect on SC migration within the CNS. We have previously established an in vitro model which demonstrates the restrictive effect of astrocytes on SCs (Ghirnikar and Eng, Glia 4:367-377, 1994). Using this culture model, in the present study, we have characterized the molecular basis underlying astrocyte-SC interaction and demonstrated chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSP) staining in the co-cultures. Following 1-2 weeks of incubation, CSP staining was specifically associated with SCs co-cultured with astrocytes. Staining with antibodies specific for the different chondroitin sulfate isomers revealed the presence of both, chondroitin-4- and 6-sulfates in SCs. In contrast, SCs when cultured alone, or in the presence of astrocytes conditioned medium did not show CSP staining. These data suggest that CSP staining is associated with SCs following co-culture with astrocytes and mediated by cell to cell contact. We hypothesize that the CSP, alone or in combination with other molecules expressed by astrocytes and/or SCs, may be involved in the restrictive effects of astrocytes on SCs. Identification of molecules involved in the unfavorable interaction between astrocytes and SCs will have an important bearing on efforts to remyelinate demyelinated axons by SC transplantation within the damaged CNS.
Long-Term Periodic Behavior in the Subarcsecond Seeing at Mount Wilson Observatory

The presence of long-term, periodic variations in the subarcsecond seeing at the Mount Wilson Observatory are reported for the first time. The discovery of such time-dependent variations has important implications for instrument developers and survey work used in observatory site selection.
Should state-owned firms change CEOs before privatization? Some evidence from the telecommunications industry

Should state-owned enterprises change chief executive officer (CEO) before privatizing? We test competing views on this question by complementing a recently released database with newly collected data. We are able to cover 77 telecommunications privatizations, which account for nearly 80% of the sector in terms of value. We find that CEO replacement will improve performance in the telecommunications industry before privatization as measured by penetration, operating efficiency and profitability. Chief executive officer change before privatization does appear to have real consequences in firm performance before privatization.
Rate of enolate formation is not very sensitive to the hydrogen bonding ability of donors to carboxyl oxygen lone pair acceptors; a ramification of the principle of non-perfect synchronization for general-base-catalyzed enolate formation.

Two series of structures (1 and 2) possessing intramolecular hydrogen bonds to the lone-pair electrons of carbonyl oxygens have been examined to reveal the influence of the pK(a) of the hydrogen-bond donor on the rate of general-base-catalyzed enolate formation. The geometry of the hydrogen bonds is well accepted to be appropriate for intramolecular hydrogen-bond formation. Yet, as revealed by Bronsted plots, both series show very little dependence of the rate of enolate formation on the hydrogen-bond donor ability. The intramolecular hydrogen bonds give rate enhancements only on the order of 10-100-fold, and corrected Bronsted alpha-values are slightly below 0.1. The results can be understood by interpreting them in light of the Principle of Non-Perfect Synchronization. The results are consistent with the proton transfer occurring through an asynchronous transition state with the developing negative charge localized on carbon. We postulate that catalysts of enolate formation will be most effective if the binding groups are focused on stabilizing negative charge that is forming on the enolate carbon rather than on the enolate oxygen.
Mathematical Modeling of the Solidification Structure Evolution in the Presence of Ultrasonic Stirring

Ultrasonic treatment (UST) was studied in this work to improve the quality of the cast ingots as well as to control the solidification structure evolution. Ultrasonically induced cavitation consists of the formation of small cavities (bubbles) in the molten metal followed by their growth, pulsation, and collapse. These cavities are created by the tensile stresses that are produced by acoustic waves in the rarefaction phase. The pressure for nucleation of the bubbles (e.g., cavitation threshold pressure) may decrease with increasing the amount of dissolved gases and especially with the amount of inclusions in the melt. Modeling and simulation of casting solidification of alloys with UST requires complex multiscale computations, from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) macroscopic modeling through mesoscopic to microscopic modeling, as well as strategies to link various length-scales emerged in modeling of microstructural evolution. The developed UST modeling approach is based on the numerical solution of the Lilley model (that is founded on Lighthills’s acoustic analogy), fluid flow, heat transfer equations, and mesoscopic modeling of the grain structure. The CFD analysis tool is capable of modeling acoustic streaming and ultrasonic cavitation. It is used in this work to study ingot solidification under the presence of ultrasound. The UST model was applied to low-temperature alloys including Al- and Mg-based alloys. Although the predicted ultrasonic cavitation region is relatively small, the acoustic streaming is strong and, thus, the created/survived bubbles/nuclei are transported into the bulk liquid quickly. The predicted grain size under UST condition is at least one order of magnitude lower than that without UST.
Investigations of Time-Dependent Delocalization and the Correlation of Carbonyl IR Shifts with ΔE1/2 Values for Hydrocarbon-Linked Class II and Class III Mixed-Valent Complexes

A series of fulvalenediyl-bridged dimanganese complexes has been studied by electrochemistry and by IR, optical, and ESR spectroscopic methods. The redox site is based on the Mn(I) moiety (C5H4R)Mn(CO)2PPh3 and variations thereof. Six dinuclear complexes are each oxidized in two one-electron steps with E1/2 separations (ΔE1/2) of between 80 and 450 mV. Each of the monocations exhibits trapped valence by IR spectroscopy. Analysis of the carbonyl stretching frequencies of the mixed-valent systems allows calculation of a charge distribution parameter, Δρ, that estimates the relative charges at the two redox sites and which correlates linearly with the ΔE1/2 values. This correlation extends to mixed-valent Cr(I)Cr(0) systems linked by a biphenyl bridge. The doubly linked system [(Fulv){Mn(CO)2}2(μ-dppm)]-, 1+, displays trapped valence in its IR spectra, but delocalized valence in its ESR spectra, implying a time-dependent delocalization process.
Benzaldehyde polymerization and copolymerization studies

In attempts to homopolymerize benzaldehyde with various ionic and coordination catalysts, or by γ-radiation, only the ionic catalyst BF3 etherate formed a polymeric product. This product was identified as polybenzyl with a degree of polymerization (DP) of 133. Mixtures of benzaldehyde and styrene did not copolymerize under γ-irradiation, but yielded only polystyrene. With a BF3 etherate catalyst, however, mixtures of styrene and benzaldehyde were found to have copolymerized through the carbonyl group of the latter, and a 50 : 50 styrene–benzaldehyde monomer mixture yielded an 80:20 styrene–benzaldehyde copolymer with a DP of 139.
Estimation of high count rate signals with a digital filter

A methodology for estimating the magnitude of signals generally found in a high-count-rate (HCR) system is presented. An analog system which is presently used for estimating such HCR signals has a moderate resolution and poor throughput. In order to enhance these performance measures, a digital signal processor design which maximizes the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the sequence of measurements is used. The signal to be considered is deterministic and assumed to be known, and is corrupted by colored noise due to inherent sensor imperfections and the environment. By using the digital filter the improvement in resolution is marginal, whereas the expected improvement in throughput is considerable. The performance of the digital signal processor is evaluated for a SNR value of approximately 65 dB. >
Long-term regulation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors on cultured nerve cells

Abstract Incubation of mouse neuroblastoma cells (clone 1LE-115) with the muscarinic agonist, carbachol, resulted in a time-dependent desensitization to muscarinic receptor-mediated cyclic GMP formation and a decrease in the number and affinity of muscarinic receptors as measured by the binding to intact cells of the muscarinic antagonist, [ 3 H]quinuclidinyl benzilate (QNB). The decrease in responsiveness to cyclic GMP formation reached a maximum after a 15-minute exposure to 1 mM carbachol (short-term desensitization) whereas changes in [ 3 H] QNB binding became apparent only after a one hour exposure and reached a maximum after about 12 hrs (long-term desensitization). Recovery of sensitivity after short-term desensitization was rapid, suggesting that this process may involve a conformational change in the muscarinic receptor. In contrast, recovery after long-term desensitization was prolonged and could be slowed by the inhibition of protein synthesis. These results indicate that different cellular mechanisms are involved in the short-term and long-term desensitization of muscarinic receptors.
Realism, idealization, and potential negative impact of 3D virtual relationships

One hundred and ninety-nine participants, each of whom was currently involved in an intimate relationship within the 3D virtual world of Second Life, completed measures assessing whether they (1) viewed their 3D virtual relationship as an exercise in fantasy or one that had a quality of realism, and (2) perceived the personality characteristics of their 3D partner in more positive or idealized terms than a current or recent real life partner. Additionally, 71 of the 199 participants (36%) who were concurrently involved in a real life romantic relationship as well as their Second Life relationship provided data regarding the potential negative impact of Second Life relationships on co-occurring real life relationships. Results indicated that (1) the majority of participants viewed their Second Life relationships as real rather than as a form of game-playing, (2) participants generally reported more positive or idealized personality traits for their Second Life partners compared to their real life partners, and (3) a portion of participants in co-occurring Second Life and real life relationships indicated that their virtual relationship served as an emotional competitor or potential threat to their real life relationship, with the potential for detrimental effects rising as the couple progressively adds non-immersive digital and physical channels of communication to the original 3D relationship.
Elevated vascular endothelial cell growth factor affects mesocardial morphogenesis and inhibits normal heart bending.

Signaling by means of vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors (VEGFRs) is required for cardiovascular development. To examine how VEGF/VEGFR receptor signaling affects early endocardial cell behavior, embryonic quail hearts were subjected to elevated VEGF165 levels (five- to nine-somite stage). Primitive embryonic hearts microinjected with recombinant human (rh)VEGF165 exhibit several distinct malformations compared with hearts in untreated embryos: the endocardial tube is malformed with tortuous cords and folds surrounded by a diminished cardiac jelly space, and the lumens of affected hearts are conspicuously reduced. Furthermore, the embryonic heart fails to loop properly. Inhibition of bending is accompanied by an apparent failure of the dorsal mesocardium to atrophy—an event thought to be necessary for heart bending. Instead of atrophy, VEGF-treated mesocardia exhibit a marked increased in the number of resident endothelial cells. Collectively, the data suggest that the abnormally robust mesocardia in VEGF-treated hearts impede the mechanical deformation required for normal heart bending. We conclude that the excessive VEGF signaling culminates in a physical or biomechanical mechanism that acts over a wide, tissue-level, length scale to cause a severe developmental defect—failure of heart bending. Developmental Dynamics 235:10–18, 2006. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Bipartite distance-regular graphs: The Q-polynomial property and pseudo primitive idempotents

Abstract Let Γ denote a bipartite distance-regular graph with diameter at least 4 and valency at least 3. Fix a vertex of Γ and let T denote the corresponding Terwilliger algebra. Suppose that Γ is Q -polynomial and there are two non-isomorphic irreducible T -modules with endpoint 2. We show that, unless the intersection numbers of Γ fit one exceptional case (which is not known to correspond to an actual graph), the entry-wise product of pseudo primitive idempotents associated with these modules is a linear combination of two pseudo primitive idempotents. This result relates to a conjecture of MacLean and Terwilliger.
Preparation of certain 2-N-alkylamino-and 2-N,N-dialkylamino-10-methylphenothiazines via phenothiazyne

The treatment of 2-chloro-10-methylphenothiazine, 1, with lithium alkylamide/alkylamine or lithium dialkylamide/dialkylamine yields the corresponding 2-N-alkylamino-or 2-N,N-dialkylaminophenothiazines in good yields via phenothiazyne. No significant reduction of 1 to 10-methylphenothiazine is observed. Yields of amines obtained by this method are considerably higher than those obtained by reacting 1 with sodamide in refluxing amine solvent. Attempts to introduce the -CH2CN moiety onto the phenothiazine nucleus by treating 1 with sodamide and acetonitrile in liquid ammonia produced only 2-amino-10-methylphenothiazine.
Précis of In Defense of Pure Reason

In Defense of Pure Reason is an elaboration and defense of what I characterize as a moderate rationalist conception of a priori justification and knowledge: "rationalist," because it holds that a priori justification genuinely exists and is not in general to be explained away as merely analytic or definitional in character; "moderate," because it holds that a priori insight is both fallible and corrigible. The argument for this view is dialectically complicated, but its main elements are: (i) the claim that the rejection of any sort of a priori justification leads inexorably to a severe skepticism (chapters 1, 3, and 7); (ii) the claim that the moderate empiricist attempt to reconcile genuine a priori justification with empiricism via the claim that a priori justifiable claims are merely analytic or definitional in character does not succeed, indeed does not really ever get off the ground (chapter 2); (iii) the claim that moderate rationalism is intuitively plausible in relation to a variety of examples (mainly chapter 4); and (iv) the claim that the various objections to rationalism, both epistemological and metaphysical, can be adequately answered (chapters 5 and 6). Chapter 1 of the book presents what I take to be the two most fundamental arguments for the thesis that a priori justification, and ultimately a priori justification of a rationalist sort, must play an essential role in any non-skeptical epistemology. The basic idea of the first argument is that while some of the things we believe are presumably justified in some way by direct experience or direct observation, without the need for inference or argument,' there are many, many other things that we take ourselves to be justified in believing for which this is not so (on any plausible conception of direct experience). Thus any justification of these further beliefs seems to inevitably require a transition of a broadly inferential sort from the deliverances of direct experience or observation to these various further claims. Such a transition from an experiential premise (assuming that this includes all relevant results
Experimental Study of Liquid Flow and Heat Transfer in Microchannels With In-Line Array of Cubes

De-ionized (DI) water flow in microchannels with periodically mounted in-line array of cubes is investigated experimentally. The array of 505 micron cubes are fabricated within silicon channels to generate so-called self-sustained oscillating flow for the purpose of improving the heating wall temperature distribution, enhancing the cooling capacity and reducing the pumping power. An electrical heater is attached on the top of the test channel to simulate the real cooling situation. With periodically mounted in-line array of cubes, more heat is transferred through the cubes to the liquid, and the liquid boundary development is interrupted periodically by the cube array, resulting in heat transfer enhancement. The strong fluid mixing between the cubes will cause more uniform distribution of the heating wall temperature and thus reduce the wall thermal stresses resulted from the temperature rise along the flow direction. Within a certain range of Reynolds number, self-sustained oscillating flow is activated and expected to reduce the pressure difference in the channels. Experimental data are presented and discussed to evaluate the performance of the cube arrays periodically mounted in microchannels. This paper was also originally published as part of the Proceedings of the ASME 2005 Pacific Rim Technical Conference and Exhibition on Integration and Packaging of MEMS, NEMS, and Electronic Systems.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Adult Age Differences in Divergent Thinking: It's Just a Matter of Time

This study examined adult age differences on five tests of divergent thinking: associational fluency, expressional fluency, ideational fluency, word fluency, and consequences. Our hypothesis was that young adults (M = 20.53, n = 60) would score higher than old adults (M = 72.10, n = 60) under standard timed test conditions, but old adults would perform as well as young adults when time limits were removed. The hypothesis was confirmed. Old adults can think as divergently as young adults, but they do so at a much slower rate.
Superconductivity in argon-treated Y-Ba-Cu-O system.

We report resistivity results in argon-processed Y-Ba-Cu-O, similar to those recently reported in Eu-${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{6+\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$, which were interpreted as possible indication of ${T}_{c}$ above 200 K. Scanning Auger microanalysis indicated measurable argon at the surface. However the observed results cannot be accounted for as solely due to surface effects, but may be due to an incipient metal-to-insulator transition around 220 K, and of an insulator ``phase'' formed on the grain boundaries and on the surface due to argon treatment.
Structure of pressure-assisted cold denatured lysozyme and comparison with lysozyme folding intermediates.

At high (>3.5 kbar) pressures and low (<−10 °C) temperatures, hen egg-white lysozyme denatures readily and reversibly. Amide hydrogen exchange methods were used to investigate the structure of the pressure-assisted cold-denatured state of lysozyme. Protection factors were obtained for 52 backbone amide protons. The extent of protection of many of these protons is markedly different from that in lysozyme denatured by high temperature, high urea concentration, or chemical modification; specifically, the protection factors are higher and are strongly correlated with elements of secondary structure present in the native state. Furthermore, the pattern of protection factors is similar to that observed in lysozyme during refolding from highly denatured states, particularly during the early stages (<3.5 ms) of refolding [Gladwin, S. T., & Evans, P. A. (1996) Folding Des. 1, 407]. Previous data on cold-denatured ribonuclease A were reevaluated and compared to known folding intermediates [Houry, W. A., & Scheraga,...
Phylogenetic relationships and morphological diversity in Darwin's finches and their relatives.

Despite the importance of Darwin's finches to the development of evolutionary theory, the origin of the group has only recently been examined using a rigorous, phylogenetic methodology that includes many potential outgroups. Knowing the evolutionary relationships of Darwin's finches to other birds is important for understanding the context from which this adaptive radiation arose. Here we show that analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequence data from the cytochrome b gene confirm that Darwin's finches are monophyletic. In addition, many taxa previously proposed as the sister taxon to Darwin's finches can be excluded as their closest living relative. Darwin's finches are part of a well- supported monophyletic group of species, all of which build a domed nest. All but two of the non-Darwin's finches included in this clade occur on Caribbean islands and most are Caribbean endemics. These close relatives of Darwin's finches show a diversity of bill types and feeding behaviors similar to that observed among Darwin's finches themselves. Recent studies have shown that adaptive evolution in Darwin's finches occurred relatively quickly. Our data show that among the relatives of Darwin's finches, the evolution of bill diversity was also rapid and extensive.
Damage sensing of adhesively-bonded hybrid composite/steel joints using carbon nanotubes

Carbon nanotube networks have been used previously for in situ sensing of matrix damage in fiber-reinforced composites. In this research, the ability of carbon nanotube networks to sense and distinguish different types of damage in adhesively-bonded hybrid composite-to-metal joints is evaluated. Toward this end, conductive networks of carbon nanotubes are introduced to the composite substrate as well as the epoxy adhesive. By altering the geometry and chemically treating the steel substrate surface, different failure mechanisms of the single-lap shear joints are achieved. It is demonstrated that these failure mechanisms each possess a distinct resistance response, therefore proving the ability to not only sense failure in situ, but also to distinguish the extent and nature of damage which occurs.
MULTINATIONAL ORGANIZATION CONTEXT: IMPLICATIONS FOR TEAM LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE

Integrating and extending literature on international management and team effectiveness, we examined how macro context in multinational organizations (MNCs) influences work team learning and how team learning influences task performance and interpersonal relations. We examined these influences in a multimethod study of 115 teams in 20 subsidiaries of five MNCs. Controlling for micro contextual features, including team type, training, feedback, and autonomy, we found that organizational contexts emphasizing global integration reduced team learning, but those emphasizing responsiveness and knowledge management increased team learning. Team learning in turn positively influenced both task performance and the quality of interpersonal relations.
Effect of mineral admixtures on formwork pressure of self-consolidating concrete

Owing to enhanced filling ability, self-consolidating concrete offers accelerated casting and superior quality control during construction. However, its high fluidity and high placement rate increase the lateral pressure on the formwork, necessitating an extensive supporting system to retain fresh mixtures in a desired shape. Current recommendations of formwork design for self-consolidating concrete adopt the concept of hydrostatic pressure, even though the measured pressure could be less than the recommended level. This study shows that mineral admixtures such as processed clays can appreciably lessen the formwork lateral pressure. In addition, the correlation between the formwork pressure response and the loss of slump flow is derived, providing an approximate method to estimate the reduction in formwork pressure.
Inflammatory mediators and periodontitis in patients with asymptomatic third molars.

Purpose: Our goal was to report the detection and levels of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) inflammatory mediators, sampled at the mesial of 4 first molars and distal of 4 second molars, in 316 patients with asymptomatic third molars. Patients and Methods: Levels of GCF inflammatory mediators, interleukin (IL)-1β and prostaglandin (PG)E2, were determined and log transformed for each patient. Z scores were calculated using the mean and standard deviation of the log values for the entire sample of 316 patients. The log mediator levels and Z scores of patients who had probing depths (PDs) less than 5 mm (n = 238) were compared with patients with at least 1 PD equal to or greater than 5 mm (n = 78) on the distal of second molars or around third molars. A periodontal Composite GCF Inflammation Score was calculated for each patient by summing the Z scores obtained for IL-1β and PGE2 for that patient. Results: The levels of GCF IL-1β and PGE2 were higher if a patient had a PD equal to or greater than 5 mm in the third molar region. The Composite GCF Inflammation Score indicated “elevated inflammation” if a PD equal to or greater than 5 mm was found in the third molar region as well. Conclusions: These data suggest that asymptomatic patients with PD equal to or greater than 5 mm in the third molar region with associated periodontal attachment loss have increased levels of biochemical mediators of inflammation compared with patients with PD less than 5 mm. These findings are consistent with the concept that early periodontitis in young adults that initiates in the third molar region is associated with increases in key inflammatory mediators. © 2002 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 60:1241-1245, 2002
Effects of cytochalasin B and colchicine on attachment of a major surface protein of fibroblasts.

Abstract We have investigated the effects of the drugs cytochalasin B and colchicine on the surface levels of the large, external, transformation-sensitive (LETS) glycoprotein. Colchicine neither removed LETS protein from the surface, nor inhibited its regeneration after removal by mild trypsinization. Cells treated with cytochalasin B, however, showed both a 2–3-fold increase in the turnover rate of their surface LETS protein and a marked inhibition in its regeneration. Inhibition of regeneration was not due to inhibition of synthesis or transport to the surface. In fact, in the presence of cytochalasin B, increased quantities of LETS protein were released into the medium. The results are consistent with the idea of an association of LETS protein with the actin-containing microfilaments. However, other possible explanations, such as effects on cellular morphology or on transport of sugar precursors cannot yet be excluded.
Annexin II mediates plasminogen-dependent matrix invasion by human monocytes: enhanced expression by macrophages

Monocytes and macrophages participate in a wide variety of host defense mechanisms. Annexin II, a fibrinolytic receptor, binds plasminogen and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) independently at the cell surface, thereby enhancing the catalytic efficiency of plasmin production. We demonstrated previously that annexin II on the surface of both cultured monocytoid cells and monocyte-derived macrophages promotes their ability to remodel extracellular matrix. Here, we demonstrate that human peripheral blood monocytes represent the major circulating annexin II-expressing cell. Annexin II supported t-PA-dependent generation of cell surface plasmin and the matrix-penetrating activity of human monocytes. Compared to polymorphonuclear leukocytes, monocytes supported a 12.9-fold greater rate of plasmin generation in the presence of exogenous t-PA, and this activity was largely attributable to annexin II. Likewise, anti-annexin II IgG directed against the t-PA-binding tail domain inhibited plasminogen-dependent, cytokine-directed monocyte migration through extracellular matrix. On differentiation of monocytes to macrophages, there was a 2.4-fold increase in annexin II-specific mRNA, and a 7.9-fold increase in surface annexin II. Thioglycolate-elicited peritoneal macrophages, furthermore, displayed an additional 3.8-fold increase in annexin II surface expression compared with resident cells. Thus, annexin II-mediated assembly of plasminogen and t-PA on monocyte/macrophages contributes to plasmin generation, matrix remodeling, and directed migration.
Investigation of methods of combining functional evidence for 3-D object recognition

A recognition system which represents object categories by properties which can he deduced by analysis of 3-D shape has been implemented and tested using the category " chair" for case study. Functional description is used to recognize classes and identify subclasses of known categories of objects even if the specific object has never been encountered previously. Interpretation of the functionality of an object is accomplished through qualitative reasoning about its shape. This is to our knowledge the first implemented system to explore the use of purely function-based representation (that is no geometric or structural object model) to recognize 3-D objects. During the recognition process evidence is gathered as to how well the functional requirements are met by the Input structure. This paper is concerned with choosing the type of operators that will be used in the combination or accrual of the functional evidence. Three pairs of conjunctive and disjunctive operators aie evaluated. Each pair is uSe(i in the recognition process of the 100+ test objects. The results of all tests run are compared and diffeieiices are discussed.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A tool for Internet-scale cardinality estimation of XPath queries over distributed semistructured data

We present a novel tool called XGossip for Internet-scale cardinality estimation of XPath queries over distributed XML data. XGossip relies on the principle of gossip, is scalable, decentralized, and can cope with network churn and failures. It employs a novel divide-and-conquer strategy for load balancing and reducing the overall network bandwidth consumption. It has a strong theoretical underpinning and provides provable guarantees on the accuracy of cardinality estimates, the number of messages exchanged, and the total bandwidth usage. In this demonstration, users will experience three engaging scenarios: In the first scenario, they can set up, configure, and deploy XGossip on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2). In the second scenario, they can execute XGossip, pose XPath queries, observe in real-time the convergence speed of XGossip, the accuracy of cardinality estimates, the bandwidth usage, and the number of messages exchanged. In the third scenario, they can introduce network churn and failures during the execution of XGossip and observe how these impact the behavior of XGossip.
Magnetically damped convection during solidification of a binary metal alloy

The transient transport of momentum, energy, and species during solidification of a Pb-19 percent Sn alloy is numerically simulated with and without magnetic damping. The system is contained in an axisymmetric, annular mold, which is cooled along its outer vertical wall. Since thermosolutal convection accompanies solidification and is responsible for final macrosegregation patterns, application of a steady magnetic field, which is parallel to the axis of the mold, has the potential to reduce macrosegregation by damping buoyancy-driven flow during solidification. Results show that, during early stages of solidification, the magnetic field significantly affects thermally driven flow in the melt, as well as interactions between thermally and solutally driven flows. However, interdendritic flows and macrosegregation patterns are not significantly altered by moderate magnetic fields. Scaling analysis reveals that extremely strong fields would be required to effectively dampen convection patterns that contribute to macrosegregation. 40 refs., 13 figs., 1 tab.
Predicted sequence and structure of a vegetative lectin in Pisum sativum.

We report the predicted sequence of four vegetative homologues (Blec1,2,3 and 4) of the pea seed lectin. This study indicates that, in contrast to the single-copy pea seed lectin (Kaminski et al., Plant Mol Biol 9: 497–507, 1987), the pea vegetative lectin is transcribed by at least four members of a highly conserved multigene family whose members are only distantly related to the pea seed lectin at the primary amino-acid sequence level. For example, Blec1 shares only 38% amino-acid identity with the pea seed lectin. However, molecular homology modelling predicts that Blec1 probably forms a similar tertiary structure to the pea seed lectin.
Head and neck cancer surgery in an elderly patient population: a retrospective review

Abstract Should advanced age be a contraindication to the surgical management of head and neck cancer patients? A retrospective chart review was performed of patients aged ≥80 years treated surgically for a head and neck malignancy during the period 1996–2011 in a tertiary care cancer centre. The average follow-up was 32 months. Fifty-three patients were identified (mean age 85 years). Cardiovascular disease was the most prevalent co-morbidity (43%). Forty-five patients (85%) had oral cavity/oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma. Surgeries performed included 40 neck dissections and 12 microvascular free flaps. The average length of hospital stay (LOS) was 6.4 days. An increased LOS was significant in patients requiring free flap reconstruction ( P n =8), infection ( n =10), and delirium ( n =6). Thirty-four patients were discharged directly home. Free flap reconstruction did not adversely affect discharge disposition ( P >0.05). More than 75% of patients did not report any major limitations to their activities of daily living. Major head and neck surgical procedures can be tolerated by patients of advanced age using careful patient selection. Age alone should not be a primary factor in the management of head and neck cancer patients.