cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of Liability Concerns with Decisions to Order Echocardiography and Cardiac Stress Tests with Imaging

Background Professional societies have made efforts to curb overuse of cardiac imaging and decrease practice variation by publishing appropriate use criteria. However, little is known about the impact of physician-level determinants such as liability concerns and risk aversion on decisions to order testing. Methods A web-based survey was administered to cardiologists and general practice physicians affiliated with two academic institutions. The survey consisted of four clinical scenarios in which appropriate use criteria rated echocardiography or stress testing as "may be appropriate." Respondents' degree of liability concerns and risk aversion were measured using validated tools. The primary outcome variable was tendency to order imaging, calculated as the average likelihood to order an imaging test across the clinical scenarios (1 = very unlikely, 6 = very likely). Linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between tendency to order imaging and physician characteristics. Results From 420 physicians invited to participate, 108 complete responses were obtained (26% response rate, 54% cardiologists). There was no difference in tendency to order imaging between cardiologists and general practice physicians (3.46 [95% CI, 3.12–3.81] vs 3.15 [95% CI, 2.79–3.51], P = .22). On multivariate analysis, a higher degree of liability concerns was the only significant predictor of decisions to order imaging (mean difference in tendency to order imaging, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.09–0.62; P = .01). Conclusion In clinical situations in which performance of cardiac imaging is rated as "may be appropriate" by appropriate use criteria, physicians with higher liability concerns ordered significantly more testing than physicians with lower concerns.
Conceptual design and simulation of a multibody passive-legged crawling vehicle

Rugged terrains, including much of the earth's surface, other planets, and many man-made structures, are inaccessible to wheeled and tracked vehicles. This has inspired research into legged vehicles. Prior to the research described here, virtually all legged vehicle designs relied on the concept of mounting actuated leg-type mechanisms onto a single rigid frame or chassis. This dissertation research explores and advances a novel vehicle concept that uses passive legs attached to an actuated multibody structure. This new vehicle moves only its actuated body trunk to achieve locomotion; thus moving in a manner similar to that used by insect larvae known as caterpillars. The passive-legged design is termed a "crawling" vehicle, to differentiate it from "walking" vehicles, which have powered legs. A conceptual design for the proposed vehicle was developed using insights from observations of caterpillar specimen geometry, gaits, leg trajectories, and ranges of motion. The flexible, segmented body of the robot is realized using a series of actuated truss-like mechanisms, resulting in a configuration similar to the body structure of caterpillars. A computer simulation was developed to verify the concept and to assist in creating future designs. This simulation includes a parametric model of the robot structure, an efficient kinematics model, a motion programming method based on six-dimensional parametric cubic trajectories, static stability analysis, actuator velocity and acceleration analysis, wire-frame animations, and rendering, thus providing synthesis and analysis tools for this new class of vehicle. Results of this work show that by using properly designed Stewart-Gough platform mechanisms for the vehicle multibody structure, a range of motion very similar to that of caterpillars is achievable. Simulation tests showed that imitating the caterpillars' primary gait (or stepping sequence) yields superior speed and efficiency, with little reduction of stability, when compared to a simpler, more obvious gait. With proper controls, this crawling vehicle will, like its biological counterpart, be intrinsically stable and have excellent maneuverability over rough terrain. The crawling vehicle is shown to be a viable legged locomotion system that may prove to have superior rough terrain mobility to all previous types of man-made land vehicles.
Strategic placement of telemetry units considering customer usage correlation

Telemetry units relay customer inventory levels to the supplier. This information can be used to create good estimates of future delivery dates, which is useful for route planning. Incorporating customer usage rate correlation can help with better planning for customers without telemetry units, but who are correlated with ones that have telemetry. We study a variant of the Telemetry Location Problem that exploits the correlation in customer demand to choose which customers should have telemetry units to minimize routing costs while preserving a given customer service level for all customers. To the best of our knowledge, this problem has not been previously addressed in the literature. We present a model and new algorithm for this problem. We perform computational experiments and provide insights regarding when consideration of correlation is particularly useful.
A graph partitioning game for distributed simulation of networks

Distributed simulation of large and complex networks requires equitable partitioning of the network model. We propose an iterative partitioning scheme for distributed network simulation that is based on a game theoretic model of simulated network nodes acting as players. We first model the cost function for the nodes and prove that a Nash equilibrium exists for the non-cooperative game in pure strategies. We then propose an iterative algorithm based on our model and prove that it converges to one of the many Nash equilibria. We show with the help of simulations that such a design of cost function moves the system towards optimum partition of the network model as the algorithm converges.
Functional Neuroimaging Research in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Neuroimaging research in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is only two decades old, but is rapidly expanding and evolving in methodological sophistication (Pitman et al. 2001; Hull 2002; Liberzon and Phan 2003). Earlier structural and symptom-provocation studies are giving way to hypothesis-driven cognitive activation studies, longitudinal and treatment studies, and translationally driven integrative studies. The focused review of functional neuroimaging research in PTSD that follows discusses findings to better understand the functional neuroanatomy underlying PTSD symptoms and pathophysiology. We begin with a selective review of the research on functional neuroanatomy of emotions that is specifically relevant to PTSD. The ensuing discussion links the two bodies of literature in order to provide a better understanding of the processing of threat-related emotions and how this informs our understanding of the brain mechanisms that subserve PTSD. PTSD is characterized by exposure to life-threatening event/s associated with intense emotional reactions. Symptom clusters consist of reexperiencing the trauma (such as nightmares and intrusive memories), avoidance and numbing (avoiding trauma-related cues, feeling emotionally distant from loved ones), and hyperarousal (hypervigilance, sleep disturbances) (American Psychiatric Association 2000). Because these criteria are descriptive, atheoretical, and not confined to a specific diagnosis, it is possible that patients with different neurobiological subtypes will share the same diagnosis or that patients with similar neurobiological abnormalities may cross descriptive categorical boundaries. Neurobiological evidence does offer the potential to identify findings specific to trauma exposure and/or to PTSD's symptoms and pathophysiology, thereby helping to differentiate, define, and treat these disorders in a more meaningful way. One powerful, noninvasive means of investigating brain function in PTSD is the use of relatively new neuroimaging methods such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). MRI methodology relies on spin properties of protons in human brain tissue to outline brain structures and estimate
Chapter 5 – Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Publisher Summary This chapter presents an overview of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It outlines several types of social learning/behavioral treatments for this disorder (direct contingency management, clinical behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and social skills training). The chapter briefly reviews evidence for the benefits yielded by such treatments, provides two case examples utilizing intensive behavioral procedures, and considers an alternate, family systems perspective. Individual differences in treatment response are the rule rather than the exception; clinical practice needs to adopt an empirical stance whereby intervention effects are systematically evaluated for each case. The two essential aspects of psychosocial intervention with the population under consideration are coordination and collaboration. That is, in light of the multiple problems and impairments displayed by children and adolescents with ADHD across diverse settings (home, school, peer groups, and leisure activities) and the need, in many instances, for treatments to span educational, family related, social, and behavioral goals, consistency in service delivery and coordination of efforts is paramount. It should be noted that difficulties with allocating sustained attention to academic tasks, inhibiting behavior in the face of temptation for immediate gain, and refraining from excess motor behavior are nearly ubiquitous in childhood, particularly in structured educational settings. Thus, differentiating ADHD from normal-range activity level, from insufficient or disorganized classrooms, or from chaotic home environments is indeed a clinical challenge. The disorganization inherent in ADHD must be countered by intensive organization and coordination among those attempting to forge more consistent environments and more productive performance.
Association Between Perceived Physical Activity and Cognitive Function in Older Adults.

There is irrefutable evidence that regular participation in physical activity is favorably associated with numerous positive health outcomes, including cognitive function. Emerging work suggests th...
Cluster Quantum Chemical Study of Triaminotoluene Interaction with a Model Clay Surface

This paper presents the results of an ab initio cluster quantum chemical study at the HF/6-31G level for the triaminotoluene (TAT) molecule interaction with a model clay surface, in particular, a kaolinite-type clay mineral. The latter is characterized by a layer structure that contains three different structure units corresponding to alumina, silica, and an intersection of alumina-silica. According to the obtained results, the physical adsorption of TAT took place both on alumina and silica structure units. In going from silica to alumina-silica units, the two-center adsorption of TAT will result in strong adsorption via formation of a TATH+ species stabilized by two strong H bonds. Different channels of interactions of TAT with kaolinite-type clay surfaces (i.e., one-, two-, and three-center adsorption of TAT, an aromatic six-member ring opening of TAT) and its destruction via breaking the methyl-aromatic or amino-aromatic ring bonds are also discussed.
Accurate 3D Localization for 60 GHz Networks

RF-based (mainly Wi-Fi and BLE) localization systems have been gaining the significant amount of attention from industry, since they do not require the deployment of any special and costly infrastructure such as cameras and depth sensors but leverage existing wireless Access Points (APs) and mobile clients. However, extensive field trials have shown that such solutions can be inaccurate (e.g., meter-level localization error) and/or impractical (e.g., requiring centrally-controlled, dense AP deployments). In this paper, we focus on millimeter-wave wireless networks, which are becoming increasingly popular for both indoors and outdoors connectivity, to overcome the aforementioned limitations and to provide accurate 3D localization. Specifically, we propose mWaveLoc, a system that exploits the small wavelength (millimeter) and directional communication of millimeter-wave (e.g., in 60 GHz) networks for accurate and practical 3D localization. mWaveLoc relies only on a single AP to track a device's position and works with existing off-the-shelf 802.11ad 60 GHz devices. Our implementation and experimental results on commodity 802.11ad testbeds show that mWaveLoc can achieve centimeter-level AP-client distance estimation accuracy and decimeter-level 3D localization accuracy in Line-Of-Sight settings.
Newborn with a rare congenital granular cell lesion of the tongue

Congenital granular cell lesion (CGCL) is an uncommon, benign soft tissue lesion that usually arises from the alveolar mucosa of neonates. The present report describes a case of CGCL originating from the tongue of a newborn female infant. The lesion was negative for S-100 differentiating it from congenital granular cell tumour. The lesion was excised under local anaesthesia with no recurrence at 4 months.
ThCr2Si2 structure type: The “perovskite” of intermetallics

Abstract This work provides a brief review of the crystal structure, compositional scope, structural phase transitions, superconductivity, magnetism, and heavy-fermion behavior in the vast family of ternary intermetallics that belong to the ThCr2Si2 structure type. The intriguing physical properties observed for a number of ThCr2Si2-type materials are discussed relative to the features of their electronic band structure.
Use and safety of disease-modifying therapy in pregnant women with multiple sclerosis.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to describe dispensing patterns and comparative safety of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) during pregnancy in women with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods We identified pregnancies from the Truven Health Marketscan® Commercial Claims and Encounters Database (2011-2015) and ascertained MS before delivery from inpatient and outpatient claims. We computed the proportion of women with DMT dispensing claims around pregnancy and estimated risk ratios of spontaneous abortion, infections, cesarean section, preterm delivery, poor fetal growth, preeclampsia, and major structural malformations by DMT exposure. Results Of 984 058 pregnancies, 1649 were to women with MS. Thirty-five percent of women with MS filled a prescription for a DMT in the 90 days before pregnancy. DMT use declined during pregnancy but increased again after delivery. Glatiramer acetate and interferon beta were most commonly dispensed. Pregnancies with and without early DMT exposure had similar risks of outcomes to one another and to pregnancies in women without MS. Small numbers did not allow evaluation of specific DMTs. Conclusions Approximately one third of commercially insured women with MS in the United States uses DMTs before conception. Neither MS itself nor early pregnancy use of DMTs overall seems to be associated with a substantial risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Central role of arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase in the regulation of cell growth and apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells.

Dietary fat and the risk of prostate cancer: Prostate cancer has emerged as the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among men in the United States, taking thousands of lives every year (1). It is a multistep disease. In the United States, while there are more than 15 million men with localized prostate cancer, only 40–50,000 men will develop malignancy and die in a given year. Thus the development of the metastatic phenotype is an important rate limiting step in the natural history of prostate cancer. Through the incidence of the latent form of the diseases the same worldwide, there is significant geographic variation in the diagnosis of clinically evidence prostate cancer and mortality (2–4) suggesting involvement of environmental factors in this process. Moreover, people who migrate from low-incidence countries to high-incidence countries show increased risk of invasive prostate cancer (5–8) indicating a positive role for lifestyle factors, such as diet and nutrition.
Heatwaves and hospitalizations due to hyperthermia in defined climate regions in the conterminous USA

Heatwaves are one of the deadliest natural disasters that occur annually with thousands of people seeking medical attention. The spatio-temporal synchronization between peaks in disease manifestation and high temperature provides important insights into the seasonal timing of the heatwave and the response it may cause with respect to emergence, severity, and duration. The objectives of this study are to examine the association between hospitalizations due to heat stroke in older adults and heat in the United States (US) and explore synchronization with respect to heatwave sequence, time of arrival, and regional climate. Three large data sets were utilized: daily hospitalization records of the US elderly between 1991 and 2006, annual demographic summaries on Medicare beneficiaries maintained by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and nationwide daily meteorological observations. We modeled seasonal fluctuations in health outcomes, such as the timing and intensity of the seasonal peak in hospitalizations using refined harmonic GLM for eight climatically similar regions. During the 16-year study period, there were 40,019 heat-related hospitalizations (HRH) in the conterminous US. The rates of HRH varied substantially across eight climatic regions: with the highest rate of 7.05 cases per million residents observed in areas with temperate arid summers and winters (TaTa) and the lowest rate of 0.67—in areas with cold moderately dry summers and arid winters (CdCa), where summer temperatures are about 18.3 °C and 12.1 °C, respectively. We detected 400 heatwaves defined as any day when the night time temperature is above its 90th percentile for the current and previous nights. The first seasonal heatwave in a season resulted in 4274 hospitalizations over 342 heatwave-days: 34.3% of 12,442 hospitalizations occurred in 26% of 1308 heatwave-days. The relative risks of increased HRH associated with the first and second heatwaves were 10.4 (95%CI: 8.5; 12.3) and 11.4 (95%CI: 9.6; 13.3), respectively, indicating the disproportional effects of early heatwave arrivals. The seasonal spike in heat stroke hospitalizations in regions with relatively similar annual temperatures, e.g. in areas with temperate moderately dry summers and winters (TdTa: 12.8 °C) and (TaTa: 11.1 °C) ranged between 4.5 (95%CI: 3.3; 5.5) and 11.0 (95%CI: 8.2; 14.9) cases per million residents, respectively, indicating substantial regional differences. The differences in heat-related hospitalizations and response to heatwaves are substantial among older adults residing in different climate regions of the conterminous US. The disproportionally high response to the early seasonal heatwave deserves special attention, especially in the context of prevention and decision support frameworks.
Dynamic interplay between connective tissues and the surrounding environment during aging

One of the core assumptions of geroscience is that the process of aging is similar enough between different tissues to warrant addressing the underlying biology in a systemic fashion.1 Indeed, the ...
Dual-phase high-entropy ultra-high temperature ceramics

Abstract A series of dual-phase high-entropy ultra-high temperature ceramics (DPHE-UHTCs) are fabricated starting from N binary borides and (5-N) binary carbides powders. > ∼99 % relative densities have been achieved with virtually no native oxides. These DPHE-UHTCs consist of a hexagonal high-entropy boride (HEB) phase and a cubic high-entropy carbide (HEC) phase. A thermodynamic relation that governs the compositions of the HEB and HEC phases in equilibrium is discovered and a thermodynamic model is proposed. These DPHE-UHTCs exhibit tunable grain size, Vickers microhardness, Young’s and shear moduli, and thermal conductivity. The DPHE-UHTCs have higher hardness than the weighted linear average of the two single-phase HEB and HEC, which are already harder than the rule-of-mixture averages of individual binary borides and carbides. This study extends the state of the art by introducing dual-phase high-entropy ceramics (DPHECs), which provide a new platform to tailor various properties via changing the phase fraction and microstructure.
Small Substrate or Large? Debate Over the Mechanism of Glycation Adduct Repair by DJ-1

Glycation, the term for non-enzymatic covalent reactions between aldehyde metabolites and nucleophiles on biopolymers, results in deleterious cellular damage and diseases. Since Parkinsonism-associated protein DJ-1 was proposed as a novel deglycase that directly repairs glycated adducts, it has been considered a major contributor to glycation damage repair. Recently, an interesting debate over the mechanism of glycation repair by DJ-1 has emerged, focusing on whether the substrate of DJ-1 is glycated adducts or the free small aldehydes. The physiological significance of DJ-1 on glycation defense also remains in question. This debate is complicated by the fact that glycated biomolecular adducts are in rapid equilibrium with free aldehydes. Here, we summarize experimental evidence for the two possibilities, highlighting both consistencies and conflicts. We discuss the experimental complexities from a mechanistic perspective, and suggest classes of experiments that should help clarify this debate.
George Washington's Recurrent Health Problems and Fatal Infection Re-examined.

George Washington's medical history has been recounted so many times and with such consistency that it seems that nothing new remains to be said about the panoply of disorders which plagued him during his life. The same can be said for the particular one which carried him off at age 67. We know that he had small pox, dysentery, recurrent attacks of malaria and a host of other infections during his long and spectacularly productive career. His teeth were a source of unrelenting distress in spite of his assiduous attention to dental hygiene; and that terminally, he developed a rapidly progressive upper respiratory infection which killed him in little more than a day and a half in spite of the best medical care available.
Opportunities for Characterizing Geological Flows Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Geological flows-from mudslides to volcanic eruptions-are often opaque and consist of multiple interacting phases. Scaled laboratory geological experiments using analog materials have often been limited to optical imaging of flow exteriors or ex situ measurements. Geological flows often include internal phase transitions and chemical reactions that are difficult to image externally. Thus, many physical mechanisms underlying geological flows remain unknown, hindering model development. We propose using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance geosciences via non-invasive, in situ measurements of 3D flows. MRI is currently used to characterize the interior dynamics of multiphase flows, distinguishing between different chemical species as well as gas, liquid, and solid phases, while quantitatively measuring concentration, velocity, and diffusion fields. This perspective describes the potential of MRI techniques to image dynamics within scaled geological flow experiments and the potential of technique development for geological samples to be transferred to other disciplines utilizing MRI.
Design and Development of a Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Camshaft

The development of a variable valve timing (VVT) camshaft was initiated as a potential means of controlling exhaust emissions from a spark ignition piston engine. This approach was based on the fact that valve overlap influences internal exhaust gas recirculation which in turn affects spark ignition engine emissions and performance. The design, fabrication, bench tests and engine durability tests of a unit incorporating splines to allow the intake cams to move relative to the exhaust cams is discussed. Preliminary test data from a 350 CID (5700 cm3) engine fitted with the VVT camshaft are discussed with regard to durability and emissions.
The integration of bypass diodes with terrestrial photovoltaic modules and arrays

Bypass diodes are often required to limit the potential for reverse voltage 'hot-spot' heating in high voltage arrays or in arrays that undergo periodic operation near the short-circuit point. In addition, when properly applied, bypass diodes can minimize the effect of shadowing and various internal module failures on the array energy output. This paper discusses the mechanical and electrical integration of bypass diodes beginning with the array-level considerations which influence the selection of an implementation approach. Concepts for the mounting of these diodes, both internally within the module encapsulant and externally to the exposed rear surface of the module, are described. Factors affecting the reliability of bypass diodes, including the control of junction temperature through adequate heat sinking and the derating of reverse voltage, are discussed.
Face-Negotiation Conflict Theory

The root of the face-negotiation (FN) conflict theory was influenced anthropological essay “The Chinese Concept of ‘Face’, ” sociological article “On Face-Work,” and Penelope Brown and Stephen Levinson's linguistics monograph “Politeness.” The face-negotiation conflict theory, developed by Stella Ting-Toomey in the human communication studies discipline, explains the culture-based, individual-based, and situational-based factors that shape communicators’ tendencies in approaching conflicts. It is viewed as a cross-cultural conflict communication theory due to its focus on a comparative analysis of how members of individualistic and collectivistic cultural systems handle diverse conflict situations. Keywords: conflict management; collectivism; communication; individualism
A family of p-adic isometries, fixed points, and the number three

We study a continuous family of norm-preserving isometries of the p-adic unit disk, given as interpolations of a common arithmetic function, the q-analog of the identity, for principal p-adic units q. We show that the fixed point set is trivial except when p=3 and q is a generator of the principal 3-adic units; in that case the isometry given by each q has a unique nontrivial 3-adic fixed point, varying homeomorphically with q.
Bearing Witness to Suffering in AIDS: Constructing Meaning From Loss

The phenomenon of AIDS volunteerism has been described as an act of bearing witness. It has been suggested that bearing witness assists individuals affected by the suffering in HIV/AIDS to heal. The purpose of this research was to explore AIDS volunteerism as a potentially healing phenomenon. Using grounded theory methodology, open-ended interviews were conducted with 17 participants over a 7-month period of time. The constant comparative method was used for data analysis. A substantive theory was generated that identified the basic sociological process as constructing meaning from loss and described the transformative psychosocial and spiritual healing process individuals undergo as they volunteer. Constructing meaning from loss is described within the following three major stages: (a) experiencing suffering, (b) containing suffering, and (c) transforming suffering. Characteristics within each stage are described. Suffering and complex loss are major issues in HIV/AIDS. Interventions are recommended for nurses who care for those affected by HIV disease.
Phase 1 clinical trials in 83 patients with pancreatic cancer: The M. D. Anderson Cancer Center experience.

Background The outcomes of patients with pancreatic cancer treated on early phase clinical trials have not been systematically analyzed. The purpose of this study was to report the presenting characteristics and outcomes of patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer treated on phase 1 clinical trials at a single institution. Methods The authors reviewed the records of consecutive patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer who were treated in the Phase I Clinical Trials Program at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center from November 2004 to March 2009. Data recorded and analyzed included survival, response, and disease characteristics. Results Eighty-three patients were identified. The median age was 62 years (range, 39-81 years). Of 78 patients evaluable for response, 2 (3%) had a partial response (PR), and 10 (13%) had stable disease (SD) for ≥ 4 months. With a median follow-up for survivors of 3.7 months, the median survival from presentation in the phase 1 clinic was 5.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.3-6.2). The median overall survival from diagnosis was 22.1 months (95% CI, 17.9-26.5). The median time to treatment failure was 1.5 months (95% CI, 1.3-1.8). Independent factors associated with lower rates of PR/SD were liver metastases (P = .001) and performance status >0 (P = .01). Independent factors associated with shorter survival were liver metastases (P = .007), low calcium level (P = .015), and elevated CEA level (>6 ng/mL) (P = .005). Conclusions Our results suggest that phase 1 clinical trials offer a reasonable therapeutic approach for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
Differential structure-activity relationships of atrial peptides as natriuretics and renal vasodilators in the dog.

Abstract Natriuretic-diuretic and vasodilator activities of synthetic atriopeptin (AP)-related peptides were examined in the anesthetized dog. We have selected, the naturally occurring, APIII as the reference compound for comparison with various related peptides. APIII is a 24 amino acid peptide with the sequence ser-ser-cys-phe-gly-gly-arg-ile-asp-arg-ile-gly-ala-gln-ser-gly-leu-gly-cys-asn-ser-phe-arg-tyr-OH. APII, another peptide isolated from atrial extracts, lacks the C-terminal arg- of APIII. N-terminal amino acid extensions on APIII or APII, exhibited enhanced natriuretic-diuretic effectiveness. Furthermore, the maximum response obtained by ser-leu-arg-arg-APIII and arg-arg-APIII were significantly higher and the dose-response curve was not parallel to that obtained with APIII. In contrast, there were no significant qualitative or quantitative differences between the renal blood flow responses produced by the N-terminal extended peptides and APII or APIII. These results suggest a heterogeneity of AP receptors in vascular and renal tubular tissues.
Reliability of Gold Metallized Commercially Available Power GaAs FETs

Commercially available 0.5 watt GaAs FETs with gold based refractory gate metallizations have been subjected to accelerated stress testing under r.f. operation at 8 GHz. The results of these tests indicate that a conservative estimate of the mean time to failure of these devices is 2.5 × 106 hours at 125°C channel temperature.
Biphasic response of complement to heparin: Fluid‐phase generation of neoantigens in human serum and in a reconstituted alternative pathway amplification cycle

We describe a study of the effects of heparin on complement activation through the use of assays for fragment C4d, fragment Bb, and the S-C5b-9 complex (S-MAC). In sera from healthy volunteers, virtually no change was observed in C4d either as a function of time or of heparin concentration, whereas changes in Bb and S-MAC were biphasic. This observation was explored in greater detail in the heparin concentration range 0.001-5.0 u/ml (5 x 10(-3) to 25 micrograms/ml). For both Bb and S-MAC, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in production was noted in the heparin concentration range, 0.01-0.5 u/ml (5 x 10(-2) to 2.5 micrograms/ml). At higher heparin concentrations, Bb and S-MAC production decreased markedly (P < 0.05). We reconstituted the alternative pathway amplification cycle (C3, factor B, and factor D) and studied Bb generation. With reactants at concentrations one tenth those of normal serum, we observed a maximum generation of 13.2 micrograms/ml Bb. Control and heparin at 5 x 10(-4) micrograms/ml generated Bb concentrations of 6.8 and 6.1 micrograms/ml, respectively, for a 2-min incubation; at 5 x 10(-3) micrograms/ml heparin, Bb was increased to 9.8 micrograms/ml. Using isoelectric focusing to study anionic pI shifts in heparin-bound factors B and D, it was found that factor B bound heparin only at the highest heparin concentration studied, i.e., 50 micrograms/ml; factor D, however, bound heparin at a much lower concentration (0.05 micrograms/ml). We conclude that, at low concentrations, heparin activates complement due to potentiation of the alternative pathway amplification cycle in the fluid phase.
Training residents in hypospadias repair: variations of involvement.

Purpose: Hypospadias repair is a complex and seminal procedure that has defined the subspecialty of pediatric urology. We sought to determine the degree of training and opinions regarding the need for fellowship training to achieve necessary competence in hypospadias repair.Materials and Methods: An electronic survey was sent to 518 urology residents and recent graduates, and to 168 practicing pediatric urologists. Nonresponders were resent the survey 2 additional times. The survey consisted of basic questions on level of training or years in practice. Residents and practicing pediatric urologists were asked about the level of resident participation for each step of the hypospadias procedure, and opinions on the necessity of fellowship training. Data were analyzed for statistical differences with Wilcoxon rank sum and multiple and logistic regression tests.Results: Surveys were completed by 89 pediatric urologists and 208 urology residents or recent graduates (response rate 53% and 40%, respectively). App...
Metabolism and DNA binding of aflatoxicol and aflatoxin B1 in vivo and in isolated hepatocytes from rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri)

The purpose of this study was to compare the metabolism and DNA binding of aflatoxicol (AFL) with that of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in vivo and in isolated hepatocytes from Mt Shasta strain rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri). Maximum total binding of [3H]AFL to liver DNA from trout exposed by intraperitoneal injection was 38-47% of that of [3H]AFB1 over a 1-7 day period. The average AFL/AFB1 DNA binding ratio in 1-h incubations with isolated hepatocytes was 0.67 +/- 0.36 (n = 13). In freshly isolated hepatocytes, substantial interconversion between AFB1 and AFL via reductase and dehydrogenase enzymes was observed. Total in vivo excretion of conjugates in bile over 4 days was greater for [3H]AFL substrate than for [3H]AFB1. To determine if AFL binding was due to direct activation or to prior metabolism to AFB1 followed by activation, AFL with a tritium atom on the carbon containing the cyclopentenol function [1-3H]AFL, was synthesized and incubated with hepatocytes. Binding of [1-3H]AFL was 3% that of [3H]AFB1 and represents only direct binding of the intact cyclopentenol epoxide molecule before transformation to AFB1 and consequent loss of 3H. H.p.l.c. analysis of DNA hydrolyzed after incubation with [1-3H]AFL resulted primarily in production of non-radioactive 8,9-dihydro-8-(N7-guanyl)-9-hydroxyaflatoxin B1 (AFB1-N7-guanine). A radioactive peak estimated to be 1% as abundant as the AFB1-N7-guanine was also observed. The overall binding of generally labeled [3H]AFL to trout liver DNA in vivo and in freshly prepared hepatocytes correlates well with available tumor incidence and mutagenicity data. Conclusions from these findings are that direct interaction of AFL-8,9-epoxide with DNA is of relatively minor quantitative importance in rainbow trout hepatocytes and that the major adduct results from conversion of AFL to AFB1 prior to epoxide formation.
A Lucid Key to the Common Species of Phytophthora.

Abstract The Key to the Common Phytophthora species (Lucid v 3.4) is a matrix-based computerized identification key and includes important morphological and molecular characters that are useful for identification of 55 common species of Phytophthora. A set of 20 features are used to make a correct species identification. Once a culture is obtained, the user enters responses to known character state options into Lucid Player, and the correct species is identified. Illustrations of each character state for a feature are included in the key. The main morphological features included in the key are: asexual structures, sexual structures, and chlamydospore, hyphae, and cultural characteristics. The user can read an illustrated “Fact Sheet” on each species that includes pictures of morphological characters, disease symptoms, host range, and relevant references. A cross-linked glossary of terminology is included in each fact sheet. In addition, a DNA search function that contains a simple search of internal trans...
On a triangle counting problem

Abstract We consider the following problem: given a set S of n points in the plane, we would like to compute for each point pϵS, how many triangles with corners at points in set S contain p. We give an O(n2) algorithm to solve the problem.
Enhancement of ambipolar characteristics in single-walled carbon nanotubes using C60 and fabrication of logic gates

We demonstrate a technique to convert p-type single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) network transistor into ambipolar transistor by thermally evaporating C60 on top. The addition of C60 was observed to have two effects in enhancing ambipolar characteristics. First, C60 served as an encapsulating layer that enhanced the ambipolar characteristics of SWNTs. Second, C60 itself served as an electron transporting layer that contributed to the n-type conduction. Such a dual effect enables effective conversion of p-type into ambipolar characteristics. We have fabricated inverters using our SWNT/C60 ambipolar transistors with gain as high as 24, along with adaptive NAND and NOR logic gates.
Thyroid hormone binding in nonthyroid illness.

Abstract The binding of the thyroid hormones, L-thyroxine (T 4 ) and L-triiodothyronine (T 3 ), was examined in eight sera obtained from patients with severe illness and the results compared to those obtained in a concurrently studied normal serum pool. In these eight sera, the values for percent free T 4 (%FT 4 ) and free T 3 (%FT 3 ) measured by dialysis were distinctly increased. The calculated values for the absolute concentration of FT 4 in six of the eight sera were increased relative to the value in the normal pool and in all eitht sera were greatly underestimated by a free T 4 index based on an in vitro T 3 -uptake test. By contrast, the absolute concentration of free T 3 was distinctly increased in only one of the eight sera and this increase was reflected in the free T 3 index. Mixing of the normal serum pool with seven of the eight sera produced values for %FT 4 that significantly exceeded those in normal pool diluted with buffer so that the resulting values for thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) binding capacity were equivalent to those in the serum mixtures. By contrast, values for %FT 3 in these sera did not differ in a consistent manner from those in the normal pool diluted with buffer to equivalent values for TBG binding capacity. Ultrafiltrates prepared from each of the eight sera, when employed in place of buffer as diluent for serum in the dialysis method for measuring %FT 4 , did not affect the %FT 4 in the normal serum pool. Likewise, immunoglobulin concentrates prepared from three sera were also without effect on the %FT 4 in the normal pool. We conclude that there is present in the serum of some patients with severe nonthyroid illness either a nonultrafilterable binding inhibitor or a protein-protein interaction that interferes with T 4 -binding to a greater extent than T 3 -binding, thereby resulting in a value for %FT 4 that is greater than can be accounted for by a decrease in TBG. Such a phenomenon might contribute to the underestimation by the in vitro T 3 -uptake test of the %FT 4 .
Exact chiral symmetry for domain wall fermions with finite Ls

Abstract We show how the standard domain wall action can be simply modified to allow arbitrarily exact chiral symmetry at finite fifth dimensional extent L s . We note that the method can be used for both quenched and dynamical calculations. We test the method using smooth and thermalized gauge field configurations. We also make comparisons of the performance (cost) of the domain wall operator for spectroscopy compared to other methods such as the overlap-Dirac operator and find both methods are comparable in cost.
Recovery of Variable Loadings and Eigenvalues Directly from Fourier Compressed Ion Mobility Spectra

A discrete sine transform (DST) method has been devised for the Fourier compression of ion mobility spectra. The DST allows the calculation of eigenvalues with correct scale directly from the compressed data. A novel procedure for transforming the variable loadings from Fourier to native domains has been devised. For the first time, data may be interpreted in their native domain without decompression of the entire data set. This achievement is significant because results generated from the analysis of compressed data had been restricted to an abstract mathematical form. Methodology to convert these abstract results to a form that is understandable by analytical chemists is presented. This capability has important applications to the analysis of large data sets and embedded data processing under the constraints of miniaturized instrumentation. Five sets of evaluation data were obtained from vapor samples of formamide, 1-pentanol, and a mixture of two chemical warfare simulants (DIMP and DMMP) with a handheld ion mobility spectrometer (IMS). These data sets were compressed by 90% or more and reconstructed with 1% or less relative error. IMS instruments can generate thousands of spectra per hour. MATLAB functions for the DST, the inverse DST, and the two-dimensional DST are furnished in the Appendix.
Stacking the Deck to Teach Methodological Parallels in Science and Religion

This essay describes an introductory class exercise to help prepare students to critically examine both religious beliefs and scientific findings. Using a published pedagogical exercise originally designed to teach Popperian falsificationism and modified to encompass a variety of schools of thought about hypothesis testing, the paper explores how groups of students utilized assigned philosophical approaches such as neojustificationism, falsificationism, or conventionalism. A description of the exercise and some of the learning outcomes are included.
Interfacial barrier limited interphase transport of cholesterol in the aqueous polysorbate 80-hexadecane system.

The kinetics of transfer of cholesterol from an aqueous polysorbate 80 solution into hexadecane and vice versa was studied by means of the multiparticulate dispersion technique. The experimental data were quantitatively analyzed by the physical model which accounts for the effects of bulk diffusion, interfacial resistance, interfacial area, and the lipid—water partition coefficient. For the 0.1% polysorbate 80, a P value around 1.7 to 2.2 × 10−7 cm. sec.−1 was found that was consistent with all of the date on water-to-oil as well as oil-to-water transfer experiments. These findings suggest such large nonspecific interfacial barriers to be important in many biological and biopharmaceutical situations.
Evaluations of Sediment Traps and Artificial Gravel Riffles Constructed to Improve Reproduction of Trout in Three Wisconsin Streams

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine if sediment traps installed alone or in conjunction with gravel spawning riffles would significantly improve natural reproduction of trout in 1.3–1.9-km segments of three Wisconsin streams. Each stream segment lacked adequate spawning habitat, and the presence of sand “dunes” suggested high sand bed load. The study covered 8 years (1984–1991). Little improvement was observed in the annual abundance of age-0 brown trout Salmo trutta or age-0 brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis during the 3–5-year period after installation and maintenance of a sediment trap in one stream and a sediment trap and gravel spawning riffle in two streams. Changes in average stream width and water depth below the sediment basins were masked by high variability in stream discharges in two of the three streams. In the third stream, average depth increased markedly, with a lesser increase in average width. The amount of gravel substrate did not increase significantly in any of the t...
Data sharing, small science and institutional repositories

Results are presented from the Data Curation Profiles project research, on who is willing to share what data with whom and when. Emerging from scientists' discussions on sharing are several dimensions suggestive of the variation in both what it means 'to share' and how these processes are carried out. This research indicates that data curation services will need to accommodate a wide range of subdisciplinary data characteristics and sharing practices. As part of a larger set of strategies emerging across academic institutions, institutional repositories (IRs) will contribute to the stewardship and mobilization of scientific research data for e-Research and learning. There will be particular types of data that can be managed well in an IR context when characteristics and practices are well understood. Findings from this study elucidate scientists' views on 'sharable' forms of data-the particular representation that they view as most valued for reuse by others within their own research areas-and the anticipated duration for such reuse. Reported sharing incidents that provide insights into barriers to sharing and related concerns on data misuse are included.
Changes in visual acuity in a population over a 15-year period : The beaver dam eye study

Purpose To describe the change in visual acuity in a 15-year period. Design Population-based study. Methods setting: Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. participants: 4068 persons 43 to 86 years of age at the time of a baseline examination in 1988 to 1990, and with follow-up examinations every five years thereafter. observation procedures: Best-corrected visual acuity after refraction, assessed by a modification of the ETDRS protocol. main outcome measure: Doubling of the visual angle; incidence of visual impairment. Results Eight percent of the population developed impaired vision (20/40 or worse), 0.8% developed severe visual impairment (20/200 or worse), 7% had doubling of the visual angle, and 2% had improved vision. People 75 years of age or older at baseline were more likely to develop impaired vision (odds ratio [OR] 12.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 9.6 to 17.1, P P Conclusions These data provide population-based estimates of the cumulative 15-year incidence of loss of vision over a wide spectrum of ages. In people 75 years of age or older the cumulative incidence of visual impairment accounting for the competing risk of death is 25%, of which 4% is severe, indicating a public health problem of considerable proportions as the US population in this age is expected to increase by 55% from 18 million in the year 2005 to 28 million by the year 2025.
Segmenting Dot Patterns by Voronoi Diagram Concavity

This correspondence defines a signed distance, called ``internal concavity,'' on paths of the Voronoi diagram of a dot pattern. An algorithm using internal concavity to segment dot patterns is described. The segmentation algorithm produces subsets of the Dirichlet tessellation (Delaunay triangulation) of the dot pattern.