cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Apparent amelioration of bundle branch blocks and intraventricular conduction delays mediated by anasarca.

Nine patients aged 76.2 ± 8.0 years, 3 males and 6 females, who had suffered anasarca due to various illnesses, and had bundle branch block (BBB) or intraventricular conduction delays (IVCD) on admission (3 with complete left BBB [LBBB], 2 with incomplete LBBB, 2 with complete right BBB, and 2 with complete IVCD), are described. After gaining 48.2 ± 26.9 lb because of anasarca, their electrocardiograms revealed decreased QRS duration (112.7 ± 18.9 milliseconds), as compared with the same measurement on admission (130.1 ± 12.6 milliseconds) (P = .015), with 4 patients showing apparent conversion of their complete BBB or IVCD to incomplete BBB, or normal IVC. Of these 9 patients, 5 lost subsequently 45.6 ± 37.0 lb, and this was now associated with an increase in the QRS duration from 109.6 ± 23.0 to 127.8 ± 17.4 milliseconds (P = .004), with 1 patient converting from normal IVC to incomplete LBBB, and 1 from incomplete to complete IVCD. These findings suggest that anasarca leads to apparent amelioration of the features of BBB or IVCD, with subsequent return to the baseline complete BBB or IVCD after loss of fluid overload; consequently, accurate characterization of a patient's BBB or IVCD is interfered with by the presence of anasarca. The pathophysiologic mechanism of this phenomenon has been traced to decreases of voltage across the entire electrocardiographic curve due to attenuation of the electrical impedance of the body volume conductor due to accumulation of the anasarca fluid.
Inhibition of experimental autoimmune uveitis by retinal photoreceptor antigens coupled to spleen cells

Experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) and experimental autoimmune pinealitis (EAP) are CD4+ T cell-mediated inflammatory diseases of the uveal tract and retina of the eye and of the pineal gland. EAU and EAP can be induced by several retinal autoantigens including S-antigen (S-Ag) and interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein (IRBP). In this study we investigated the effect of intravenous administration of S-Ag and IRBP coupled to syngeneic spleen cells on the development of EAU and EAP. Injection of S-Ag or IRBP coupled to spleen cells 5 days prior to immunization with native S-Ag or IRBP, respectively, was effective in preventing the induction of EAU and EAP in LEW rats. Conversely, LEW rats receiving S-Ag-coupled spleen cells and challenged with IRBP or LEW rats receiving IRBP-coupled spleen cells and challenged with S-Ag developed a severe EAU within 10 days to 2 weeks following immunization, as did all control animals receiving sham-coupled spleen cells and challenged with the two retinal antigens. The results show that the administration of retinal autoantigens coupled to spleen cells effectively protects against the development of EAU when animals are subsequently challenged with the tolerizing antigen but not when challenged with another unrelated pathogenic retinal autoantigen.
Organometallic acetylene chemistry II. Disubstituted acetylenes of the type R3MCCM′R3

Abstract A series of organometallic acetylenes has been prepared which contain two different organometallic moieties from the Group IV elements. These compounds were synthesized via a convenient new route starting with the corresponding organometalamino compound, organometallic halide, and sodium acetylide.
Adult Degrees and the Learning Society

This overview of the adult degree movement since World War II focuses on factors of creation before 1970, the adult degree revolution of the 1970s, the post-baby boomer enrollments in the 1980s, and globalization and technology-based distance learning in the 1990s.
Harnack inequalities and difference estimates for random walks with infinite range

Difference estimates and Harnack inequalities for mean zero, finite variance random walks with infinite range are considered. An example is given to show that such estimates and inequalities do not hold for all mean zero, finite variance random walks. Conditions are then given under which such results can be proved.
iTRAQ is a useful method to screen for membrane-bound proteins differentially expressed in human natural killer cell types.

We are interested in the biological as well as the molecular processes involved in natural killer (NK) cell development and function. Determining the proteomic complement could be a useful tool in predicting cellular function and fate. For the first time shown here, we have utilized iTRAQ, a new method that allows identification and quantification of proteins between multiple samples, to determine the expression of membrane-bound proteins in two previously characterized human NK cell populations. One population was derived from umbilical cord blood (UCB) stem cells (CD34+38-Lin-) and the other from expanded CD3-depleted adult peripheral blood. iTRAQ was employed for multiplex peptide labeling of proteins from fractionated membranes followed by two-dimensional high-performance liquid chromatography (2D-HPLC), and tandem mass spectrometry was used to identify protein signatures. We were able to identify and quantify differences in expression levels of 400−800 proteins in a typical experiment. Ontology analy...
Effect of Incorporating Aromatic and Chiral Groups on the Dielectric Properties of Poly(dimethyltin esters)

High-dielectric constant materials are critical for numerous applications such as photovoltaics, photonics, transistors, and capacitors. There are numerous polymers used as dielectric layers in these applications but can suffer from having a low dielectric constant, small band gap, or ferroelectricity. Here, the structure-property relationship of various poly(dimethyltin esters) is described that look to enhance the dipolar and atomic polarization component of the dielectric constant. These polymers are also modeled using first principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) to predict such values as the total, electronic, and ionic dielectric constant as well as structure. A strong correlation is achieved between the theoretical and experimental values with the polymers exhibiting dielectric constants >4.5 with dissipation on the order of 10(-3) -10(-2) .
On inferring selective association: Methodological considerations

The theoretically appropriate means for demonstrating selective association are discussed and shown to be empirically necessary. Following the acquisition of an unsignaled instrumental avoidance baseline, dogs received either CS-contingent shocks (CS+) or random, independent CS/shock presentations. The CS was either a tone or a flashing light. When the CSs were subsequently presented during avoidance responding, only the tone-CS+ group showed absolute facilitation of response rate. However, both tone- and light-CS+ groups showed facilitation relative to their respective random controls due to the nonassociative inhibitory effects of the light. A bidirectionally sensitive dependent variable enabled the detection of this pattern of effects. Thus, a demonstration of selective association requires (1) appropriate controls for nonassociative effects and (2) selection of a dependent measure that is sensitive to both excitatory and inhibitory influences.
Chemical kinetic functional sensitivity analysis: Derived sensitivities and general applications

This paper considers possible applications of sensitivity analysis to kinetics problems defined in the space–time domain. At the outset it is assumed that elementary sensitivity functional densities δui/δαj are available, where ui is the ith chemical species concentration and αj is the jth system parameter function. Emphasis is placed on the use of functional calculus to manipulate the elementary sensitivities for addressing a variety of physical questions. In this fashion, a family of derived sensitivities are generated from the elementary set. An extensive list of sensitivity applications is presented along with a discussion as an aid to future work.
Relating the Solar Wind Helium Abundance to the Coronal Magnetic Field

We analyze the long-term variation of the solar wind helium abundance, both in and out of the ecliptic, using stackplot displays to compare these in situ observations with derived coronal parameters. The coronal source regions are identified and their magnetic properties characterized by applying a current-free extrapolation, with source surface located at heliocentric distance -->r = 2.5 -->R☉, to magnetograph measurements. The density ratio -->AHe of α-particles to protons is found to correlate best with the source-surface field strength -->Bss, which tends to be enhanced in high-speed flows and in the slow wind at sunspot maximum, but to be weak in the low-speed wind that originates from the polar coronal-hole boundaries around sunspot minimum. A much weaker correlation exists between -->AHe and the proton flux density at the source surface. These results are consistent with acceleration of the α-particles by ion cyclotron resonance in the outer corona. However, we are unable to explain why the helium abundance was depressed in the recurrent high-speed streams observed in the ecliptic during 1999-2000 and 2003-2004.
High Spatial Resolution MWPC Systems Using Electromagnetic Delay Line Readouts

We describe results of an investigation to develop multiwire proportional chamber systems utilizing electromagnetic delay lines for high resolution cosmic ray experiments. The delay line used is a plexiglas core type, with a delay constant of 7 nsec/mm. The interpolation properties of this readout scheme resulted in a measured spatial resolution of 75 microns (HWHM), using iron-55 X-rays and a wire spacing of 1 mm. Tracking accuracy over a 6 mm region near the center of the chamber was better than ±7 microns when fitted to a linear spatial dependence combined with a sinusoid of wire-spacing periodicity.
Reconstruction of compressively sensed images via neurally plausible local competitive algorithms

We develop neurally plausible local competitive algorithms (LCAs) for reconstructing compressively sensed images. Reconstruction requires solving a sparse approximation problem. Our solution technique uses a neural network that emulates how the brain may actually solve such sparse approximation problems. This method could ultimately be implemented in analog electronics, which would not only significantly diminish processing time, but also enable analog implementations for both acquisition and reconstruction.
Literacy-sensitive intervention for COPD patients.

To the Editors: —We commend Kiser et al. for their work addressing the impact of a literacy-sensitive, self-management intervention on improving inhaler technique for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).1 Given the high prevalence of inhaler misuse among patients with COPD,2 there is a great need for targeted approaches such as those utilized in this study. We applaud their use of verbal administration for the majority of the study. However, because the commonly used Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-TOFHLA) is a written tool, we wonder what role poor vision might have played in classifying participants’ health literacy. In studies at our institution, we found that among hospitalized patients one-third of participants had poor vision (worse than 20/50 vision in both eyes), 56 % of whom were found to have poor health literacy using a verbal tool.3 This raised concern that poor vision is an additional, unaddressed risk factor for hospitalized patients with COPD. This is salient because research has shown that poor vision can be a separate barrier to self-management, such as the ability to open medication containers,4 and among hospitalized patients, appropriate inhaler technique.2 Given these findings, it is important to understand the role of vision for self-management strategies, with respect to assessing health literacy level and/or whether poor vision compounds health risks associated with low health literacy. Lastly, the average age in Kiser’s study was 63 years old. Because older adults are at increased risk for low health literacy,5 it may be especially important to understand the association between health literacy and vision for older patients. We have found that patients aged 65 years or older are at a dual risk for low health literacy and poor vision, compared to their younger counterparts.3 With the rising numbers of older Americans, it is becoming even more important to differentiate between inhaler misuse due to poor vision and misuse due to low health literacy, as interventions may differ. Future work should attempt to achieve greater clarity between these risk factors.
Single crystal morphology of the copper acetate dimers Cu2(CH3COO)4·2H2O and Cu2(CH3COO)4pz

The morphology of two forms of copper acetate, Cu2(CH3COOH)4·2H2O (CuOAcH2O) grown from an acetic acidethanol solution and Cu2(CH3COOH)4pz (CuOAcpz) grown from aqueous solution, has been determined. The principal faces of CuOAcH2O are (101), (011), (211), (110), and (112); those for CuOAcpz are (010), (111), (111), and (111).
Comparing methods for 3D microscopy

In previous studies, we examined 3D images of a latex bead containing a surface layer of fluorescence whose thickness was determined by physical sectioning. Confocal images of the bead from six different microscopes all exhibited a significantly thicker fluorescence shell than actually present. In contrast, deconvolved wide-field images of the bead produced an image with the correct shell thickness. We have now repeated some of these studies using a new latex bed containing a much thinner layer of surface fluorescence. In contrast to earlier studies, confocal image of this bead appear to show an accurate thickness for the fluorescence shell. These particular confocal microscopes also yielded essentially aberration free images, which was not the case for some of the earlier microscopes tested. In these recent studies however, deconvolution of the bead appeared less robust than earlier. Of three independent wide-field images of the bead, only one yielded a substantially artifact-free image upon deconvolution.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Mass distribution of 3MeV neutron induced fission of 232Th

Abstract The 3 MeV neutron induced fission yields of 232Th in the mass regions of A = 77–93 and A = 141–156 were radiochemically determined by isolating fission products belonging to 15 mass chains. The absolute activities for the nuclides were determined by β- and γ-counting and the cumulative fission yields were calculated relative to 99Mo. These data were used to define the extreme wings of the mass yield curve for 232Th. By comparison of complementary fission fragments it was determined that 2·4 secondary neutrons are emitted per fission of 232Th at 3 MeV. A qualitative comparison is made concerning the general features of the 232Th mass yield curves from 14·8 MeV and 3 MeV neutron induced fission.
Measurements of argon shock layer electron densities.

Argon shock layer flow electron densities measured by dual wavelength interferometer for flow surrounding cylinder plate, noting thermal nonequilibrium zones
Explaining disparities in access to high-quality cardiac surgeons

Abstract Background Racial disparities in access to coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery are well documented. Recent evidence shows that even when patients receive CABG surgery, racial minorities are more likely to be treated by lower quality providers. Methods New York State (NYS) hospital discharge data for 1996 and 1997 for patients undergoing CABG surgery were combined with risk-adjusted mortality rates for cardiac surgeons calculated by the NYS Department of Health. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the relationship between patients' race and the quality of the surgeon performing the CABG, as measured by the surgeon's risk-adjusted mortality rate, after controlling for patient characteristics such as comorbidities and socioeconomic status; the hospital where the surgery was performed; and the number of surgeries the surgeon performed over a 3-year period. Results African Americans and Asian/Pacific Islanders are treated by surgeons with higher risk-adjusted mortality rates compared with whites. This association does not appear to be a result of inadequate risk adjustment. It is explained to some degree by the hospital to which these patients are admitted, and to a lesser degree by (1) the education and income level in the patient's zipcode of residence and (2) being treated by a low-volume surgeon. After controlling for these factors, race continues to be associated with treatment by a surgeon with a higher risk-adjusted mortality rate. Conclusions Efforts to achieve the "Healthy People 2010" goals of eliminating health disparities should address not only access to care, but also access to high-quality care.
On the structure of graphs uniquely hamiltonian-connected from a vertex

Abstract A graph G is called uniquely hamiltonian-connected from a vertex v if there is a unique v − x hamiltonian path for every vertex x ≠ v . Vertex b is said to be penultimate to vertex c if b is the second to last vertex in the v − c hamiltonian path. An edge is called a forced edge if it appears on every hamiltonian path from v . We show that an edge xy is a forced edge if and only if x is penultimate to y and y is penultimate to x . We then show that if x is penultimate to y , then edge xy lies on the unique hamiltonian cycle of G − v and on every hamiltonian cycle in G . Using this result, some progress is made on the question of whether a graph can be uniquely hamiltonian-connected from more than one vertex.
Strategies to minimize bone disease in renal failure

Abstract The skeletal disorders associated with renal insufficiency result from alterations in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D metabolism. Each requires intervention to prevent and control the problem. Hyperparathyroidism and its treatment can also result in extraskeletal complications. To prevent the development of parathyroid hyperplasia and the skeletal complications of chronic kidney disease, it is desirable to initiate interventions early in the course of kidney disease; however, many patients present with established hyperparathyroidism and additional strategies are necessary to suppress hyperparathyroidism. Mainstays of this approach are the control of phosphorus and the use of vitamin D analogs. Phosphorus control requires the use of phosphate binders, preferably non-calcium-containing binders, to prevent intestinal phosphorus absorption. Vitamin D analogs are used to suppress hyperparathyroidism and have the potential to have lesser toxicity than calcitriol. Paricalcitol is the most widely used vitamin D analog in this country and it effectively suppresses hyperparathyroidism with only minimal effects on calcium and phosphorus. A substantial body of data in experimental animals supports the use of paricalcitol as a preferential therapeutic agent. Recently, an additional vitamin D sterol, doxercalciferol, has been introduced, which is metabolized to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 2 . Although initially thought to have lesser toxicity than its vitamin D 3 counterpart, recent studies have not provided support for a major difference in this regard. Doxercalciferol is also effective in lowering parathyroid hormone (PTH), though hypercalcemia in hyperphosphatemic episodes occurred relatively frequently during the clinical studies. As these therapeutic strategies are undertaken, it is important not to oversuppress PTH and decrease bone turnover to abnormally low levels because of the risk for adynamic renal bone disease. It is possible that when bone turnover is abnormally low, the extraskeletal deposition of calcium in blood vessels and other tissues is enhanced. Accordingly, constant monitoring is required during treatment, with emphasis on minimizing the calcium load, and, if monitored correctly, a satisfactory control of hyperparathyroidism may be achieved with the agents currently available. © 2001 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
Relationship between Masculinity-Femininity and Creativity as Measured by the Franck Drawing Completion Test:

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that creative Ss share more of the traits commonly associated with the opposite sex than do noncreative Ss. The Franck Drawing Completion Test (FDCT) protocols of 240 high school students, equally divided in terms of sex and creative-versus-control status, were analyzed. The results confirmed the validity of the masculinity-femininity (M-F) scale of the FDCT for adolescents (p < .001) but did not support the hypothesis. The principal explanation for the latter finding seems to be that the FDCT does not measure those aspects of the M-F variable which creative Ss share with the opposite sex. Previous studies with the FDCT have also confirmed its validity as a measure of M-F but have been unable to specify exactly which aspect of M-F it taps.
Management of ectatic, nonaneurysmal iliac arteries during endoluminal aortic aneurysm repair.

Abstract Purpose: Most endografts for an endoluminal AAA repair cannot achieve an adequate hemostatic seal in ectatic common iliac arteries larger than 14 mm. The extension of the endograft into the external iliac artery can alleviate this problem but requires sacrifice of the internal iliac artery. We have used the larger diameter aortic extension cuff to obtain adequate endograft to arterial wall apposition in patients with ectatic, nonaneurysmal common iliac arteries. Because of the resultant flared configuration of the iliac limb, the technique is termed bell-bottom . However, it is unknown whether subsequent enlargement of these ectatic common iliac arteries that will lead to endoleaks or endograft migration will occur. Methods: The records of all 96 patients who have undergone endoluminal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair at our institution were reviewed. Fourteen patients were identified in whom aortic extension cuffs were placed into 18 ectatic (>14 mm, but Results: The mean preoperative common iliac artery diameter was 18 mm (range, 15-20 mm). Aortic extension cuffs of 20-mm diameter and 24-mm diameter were used in 14 and 4 common iliac arteries, respectively. The diameter did not change in 11 common iliac arteries (61%), increased by 1 mm in 4 common iliac arteries (22%), and decreased by 1 mm in 3 common iliac arteries (17%). No endoleaks, ruptures, or endograft migration related to this technique was identified. Conclusion: The use of aortic extension cuffs for ectatic common iliac arteries expands the number of patients who can be treated endoluminally without sacrifice of the internal iliac artery. Most common iliac arteries do not increase in diameter. When enlargement occurs, the degree of dilation is minimal. Therefore, the "bell-bottom" technique appears to be an acceptable option in the management of large, nonaneurysmal iliac vessels during endoluminal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. (J Vasc Surg 2001;33:S33-8.)
A Mechanistic Study of the Alkaline Hydrolysis of Diaryl Sulfate Diesters

Nearly all of the reported studies of reactions of sulfate diesters are for dialkyl or alkyl aryl diesters, which undergo reaction by carbon-oxygen bond fission. Sulfuryl transfer reactions of sulfate diesters (RO-SO(2)-OR') proceeding by attack at sulfur have been little explored. When both ester groups are aryl groups the hydrolysis reaction (sulfuryl transfer to water) occurs by way of attack at sulfur. The alkaline hydrolysis of diaryl sulfate diesters was shown to obey first-order kinetics with respect to [(-)OH] and proceed through S-O bond fission, in a mechanism that is most likely concerted. Activation parameters for 4-chloro-3-nitrophenyl phenyl sulfate and 4-nitrophenyl phenyl sulfate gave the following respective values: Delta H(++) = 88.0 +/- 0.1 and 84.83 +/- 0.06 kJ mol(-)(1) and Delta S(++) = -37 +/- 1 and -50.2 +/- 0.5 J mol(-)(1) deg(-)(1). The dependence of the second-order rate constant for hydrolysis on leaving group pK(a) was analyzed giving a beta(lg) slope of -0.7 +/- 0.2 and a Leffler alpha parameter value of 0.36. A (15)k kinetic isotope effect (KIE) for the hydroxide attack on 4-nitrophenyl phenyl sulfate of 1.0000 +/-0.0005 and an (18)k(lg) KIE value of 1.003+/-0.002 were obtained.
Phusons in nuclear reactions in solids

An explanation is given for the anomalous branching ratio in solids based on Boson-cooperative removal of the 4 He * energy prior to decay by two-body fission. Facilitated by isospin restrictions that limit conventional pathways, the excess heat is driven by the reconfiguration to the more tightly bound 4 He ground state. A temperature rise occurs as well-mixed acoustical and optical phonons are unable to carry off all the local momentum and excess energy of the reactions. Four-vector analysis indicates conservation of energy, which suggests the use of a fusion quantum of energy delivered to the lattice's phonon cloud: a phuson. Special relativistic considerations indicate that the phonon cloud subtends ∼450 to 800 unit cells and can couple with de-excitation times >0.1fs, Thus, commensurate levels ofneutrons and gammas are not required because of unique isospin and energy restrictions that facilitate the alternate Bose-cooperative pathway leading from the excited state.
Matrix manipulation and interpretation of data related to AIDS transmission

This research describes how a currently available spreadsheet program can be set up to analyze sociographic data. An algorithm developed by Jamrich (1960) is presented, along with both the mathematical and the spreadsheet equations. An example of the application of the algorithm and equations to AIDS transmission data is presented.
Reflections on an Analysis With Heinz Kohut

This article describes moments in time during a psychoanalysis with Heinz Kohut. His rhythm, empathy, and constant attention are noted. I hope one will see the humanity of the man. Este articulo describe momentos del analisis con Heinz Kohut. Su ritmo empatia, y atencion constatnte se ponen de manifiesto. Espero que su humanidad guedara bien plasmada. Cet article decrit des moments particuliers au cours d'une psychanalyse avec Heinz Kohut. Son rythme, son empathie, et sa constante attention y sont notes. J'espere qu'on va y voir l'humanite de cet homme. Diese Arbeit beschreibt einzelne Momente wahrend einer Psychoanalyse mit Heinz Kohut. Sein Rhythmus, seine Empathie und seine konstante Aufmerksamkeit werden beschrieben. Ich hoffe, man erkennt darin die tiefe Menschlichkeit dieses Mannes.
Measurement of Viability and Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylase Activity in Cryopreserved Baboon Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes and Pulmonary Alveolar Macrophages

Pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) and peripheral blood lymphocytes obtained from healthy nonsmoking baboons were evaluated for the ability to retain viability and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) activity following cryopreservation for 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 week intervals. Viability was measured (by trypan blue dye exclusion) in lymphocytes following 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 weeks of cryopreservation. No significant decrease in viability was observed (P > 0.05 for all comparisons; nonpaired 2-tailed, t-test; n = 22), with lymphocytes retaining 88% of their original viability following 12 weeks of cryopreservation. Similarly, a slight, but insignificant decrease in PAM viability was observed following cryopreservation for 2, 4, 6, and 8 week intervals (P > 0.05 in all instances), with PAMs retaining 93.5% of the original 0 time viability. AHH activity was also evaluated in PAMs and lymphocytes following cryopreservation. Lymphocyte noninduced and BA-induced AHH activities were slightly but not significantly d...
Inhibition of lectin-induced lymphocyte activation by 2-cyclohexene-1-one: analysis of DNA synthesis in individual cells by BUdR quenching of Hoechst 33258

A novel technique utilizing the quenching of fluorescence Hoechst 32258 by bromodeoxyuridine (BUdR) was used to investigate the effect of depressed glutathione (GSH) on the activation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) or concanavalin A (con A). This technique allows the quantification of DNA synthesis in individual cells. Lymphocytes were purified by Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient centrifugation and treated with 5 X 10(-5) M to 1 X 10(-6) M 2-cyclohexene-1-one (2-CHX-1), a reagent which specifically depletes intracellular GSH, and/or interferes with GSH-protein interactions, and 25 micrograms/ml BUdR in the presence or absence of PHA or con A. At 72 h lymphocyte smears were stained with Hoechst 33258 and examined using a computer controlled microscope photometer. When DNA synthesis was assayed using BUdR quenching two populations of lymphocytes were noted; a population which incorporated little or no BUdR (unactivated) and a population which incorporated BUdR sufficient to quench 33258 fluorescence by approximately 35%. Cells treated with graded doses of 2-CHX-1 which reduced glutathione levels by 10-90%, showed a progressive loss of cells from the activated population and the appearance of these cells in the inactivated population. Statistical analysis of the frequency histograms demonstrated that there were no cells which incorporated an intermediate amount of BUdR. This data demonstrates that depressed intracellular GSH or inhibition of GSH-protein interactions inhibits an early step in the biochemical sequence of events leading to DNA synthesis but does not inhibit the DNA synthetic process per se.
Volume Changes of a Thixotropic, Sodium Bentonite Suspension during Sol-Gel-Sol Transition

Dilatometric measurements during the sol-gel-sol transition of an air-free, thixotropic, sodium bentonite suspension revealed a reversible change in volume of about 2.4 X 10-4 percent. The volume of the suspension increased during gelation and decreased when the gel was subsequently liquified. This is taken as evidence of a progressive building up, during gelation, of a water structure less dense than normal.
Observability of the Irminger Sea circulation using variational data assimilation

This paper explores the prospects for constraining circulation and stratification estimates in the Irminger Sea and Denmark Strait using variational data assimilation. A regional circulation model with 9 km horizontal grid spacing, seven vertical levels and open boundaries is used. The circulation it simulates is realistic in several important respects and includes a chaotic mesoscale eddy field. Pulsation of the outflow of dense water through the Denmark Strait is also reasonably realistic, although entrainment and mixing of this water downstream is crudely represented. Identical twin assimilation experiments are performed to address the observability of the system with the existing in situ and satellite observing network in the absence of systematic errors. That is, the constraints exerted on the circulation and stratification by the data assimilation system are quantified. Synthetic data come from a reasonably realistic observing network that includes in situ hydrographic and current measurements, and remotely sensed surface temperature and sea level. Over a 15-day assimilation period in summer, the system fits all the observations to the relevant noise level, largely by correcting the initial conditions. Only modest changes in the time-dependent surface forcing and negligible changes to the open boundary conditions are needed. The system can accurately estimate sea surface height and sea surface temperature, correcting errors in the locations of surface fronts and eddies. The mid-depth salinity is almost completely unconstrained, however, whereas the velocity fields are somewhat constrained by the assimilation, especially by the remote-sensing data. Assimilation of satellite data enables us to accurately track the phase and amplitude of the overflow variability at the exit of Denmark Strait in the identical twin experiments. At other model outflow transects the assimilated solution is contaminated with spurious inertial oscillations. This is true even at a section offshore of Angmagssalik where a current-meter mooring array exists (in our experiments and in the real ocean). Nevertheless, improvement of the model dense outflow near the moorings is significant and propagates several hundred kilometres upstream and downstream. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society
Dislocation behavior in fatigue IV. Quantitative interpretation of friction stress and back stress derived from hysteresis loops

Abstract The dislocation model developed in Parts I – III is examined quantitatively. According to this model loop patches result from random trapping of glide dislocations whereby a constant fraction of them are incorporated into the loop patches in each cycle. The dislocation density in these is equilibrated rather easily because of the low friction stress on the loops in prismatic glide. As another result of the low friction against prismatic glide the loop patches adjust towards optimum dislocation density such that the stored energy is minimized. This imparts to them volume elasticity and properties similar to Taylor lattices. The back stress, which was determined in Part II from an analysis of the hysteresis loops, is identified with the maximum elastic reaction of the dislocation lattice against the imposed strain at the end of each cycle. Correlated with this is a friction stress of closely similar magnitude arising firstly because relative motions of the dislocation lattices beyond the confines of their immediate energy minima are irreversible and secondly because of the anchoring of glide dislocations at loop patch surfaces through local loop polarization. This feature explains a major experimental result of Part II, namely the equality of the friction stress and the back stress except for that part of the friction stress which can be ascribed to jog dragging and point-defect hardening. With respect to deformations within the momentary energy valley the dislocations in the loop patches respond quasi-elastically as if the elastic constant of the material was too low. The magnitude of the apparent elastic constant depends on the configuration of the dislocation lattice. Comparison with the experimentally observed quasi-elastic behavior indicates that the lattice is nearly close packed. Further, comparison with the experimentally determined dislocation density in the loop patches at saturation suggests that in all cases about 10% of the glide dislocations become trapped in the loop patches. The magnitude of the back stress and its dependence on the number of cycles and fatigue strain range derived from the model is in almost perfect agreement with observations; in fact it is well within the limits of reliability of both theory and experiment. Another check of the theory is possible via the changes in hysteresis loop shape with the number of cycles beyond the cumulative strain at which the loop patches can accommodate the fatigue strain by simple “flipping”. The agreement between the predicted transformation of both stress and strain in proportion to the square root of the number of cycles and the observed changes in hysteresis loop shape was found to be excellent. These results and those of Parts II and III apply to the whole range of fatigue amplitude in the plateau region which is characterized by the formation of persistent slip bands at a stress of about 30 MPa.
High Statistics Analysis using Anisotropic Clover Lattices: (III) Baryon-Baryon Interactions

Low-energy baryon-baryon interactions are calculated in a high-statistics lattice QCD study on a single ensemble of anisotropic-clover gauge-field configurations at a pion mass of m{sub {pi}{approx}3}90 MeV, a spatial volume of L{sup 3{approx}}(2.5 fm){sup 3}, and a spatial lattice spacing of b{approx}0.123 fm. Luescher's method is used to extract nucleon-nucleon, hyperon-nucleon, and hyperon-hyperon scattering phase shifts at one momentum from the one- and two-baryon ground-state energies in the lattice volume. The isospin-3/2 N{Sigma} interactions are found to be highly spin dependent, and the interaction in the {sup 3}S{sub 1} channel is found to be strong. In contrast, the N{Lambda} interactions are found to be spin independent, within the uncertainties of the calculation, consistent with the absence of one-pion exchange. The only channel for which a negative energy shift is found is {Lambda}{Lambda}, indicating that the {Lambda}{Lambda} interaction is attractive, as anticipated from model-dependent discussions regarding the H dibaryon. The nucleon-nucleon (NN) scattering lengths are found to be small, clearly indicating the absence of any fine-tuning in the NN sector at this pion mass. This is consistent with our previous lattice QCD calculation of NN interactions. The behavior of the signal-to-noise ratio in the baryon-baryon correlation functions, and in the ratiomore » of correlation functions that yields the ground-state energy splitting is explored. In particular, focus is placed on the window of time slices for which the signal-to-noise ratio does not degrade exponentially, as this provides the opportunity to extract quantitative information about multibaryon systems.« less
Monolithic SUEX Flapping Wing Mechanisms for Pico Air Vehicle Applications

This paper develops a simple flapping wing mechanism fabricated monolithically from an epoxy-based negative photoresist (SUEX) dry film. The developed fabrication process has fewer steps compared to other methods, does not use precious metals, and greatly reduces processing time and cost. It simultaneously defines the pico air vehicle (PAV) airframe, compliant flapping mechanism, and artificial insect wing using photolithography. Using this process, we designed and fabricated the LionFly, a flapping wing mechanism actuated by a PZT-5H bimorph actuator. Rapid prototypes were fabricated with precisely defined features and material properties and geometry that are similar to insects. We present the fabrication process and characterization of SUEX and show that flexure thickness can be controlled by 310 nm UV dose. Static and dynamic modeling of the LionFly have excellent agreement with experimental data. Performance from multiple prototypes shows devices with resonance frequency of 49.13 ± 1.43 Hz and up to 75° peak to peak flapping angle demonstrating applicability of the fabrication process for flapping wing PAV applications.
A Surgical Wound Infection Due to Mycobacterium chelonae Successfully Treated with Clarithromycin

background Mycobacterium chelonae is an uncommon but recognized cause of chronic localized cutaneous infection at a site of penetrating trauma or a surgical wound. objective The problem faced by physicians encountering an infection by M. chelonae is often response to therapy, which may be highly variable. methods We describe an immunocompetent patient who developed a localized infection due to M. chelonae following surgery for a basal cell carcinoma of the lower leg. results The infection responded to treatment with clarithromycin. conclusion The clinical efficacy of clarithromycin and the salient features of M. chelonae infection and its treatment are discussed.
Potential consequences of healthcare recommendations: a focus on the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

Healthcare guidelines and recommendations have broad-reaching impact. They serve as the evidence to enforce medical testing by establishing a bar for standard of care through their intrinsic credibility but also by affecting reimbursement. In this article, we discuss the various organizations in the United States that develop healthcare policy and guidelines. We focus on the recent recommendations for hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening put forward by these agencies and the potential effect of these documents. Additional discussion is provided on the recent draft HCV screening recommendations provided by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), comparison of these to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and professional societies' response to these. Conclusion: As written, the USPSTF recommendations may reduce physician adoption of HCV screening in the 1945-1965 birth cohort as advocated by the CDC. Conflicting guidelines may further confuse providers and the public. This will ultimately hinder recognition of chronic HCV in an otherwise easily identifiable, high prevalence group, allowing progression of disease at a time when therapeutic advances make cure a realistic opportunity for many. (HEPATOLOGY 2013 )
Biosynthesis of the pyrrolidine ring of nicotine in Nicotiana glutinosa

Abstract The biosynthesis of the pyrrolidine ring of nicotine has been studied using short-term steady-state exposures of Nicotiana glutinosa seedlings to 14 CO 2 . The pyrrolidine ring of the labeled nicotine has been degraded in a systematic manner to ascertain the radioactivity at each carbon, and a new method has been developed for obtaining C-2′ with complete radiochemical integrity. Some of the labeling patterns obtained were symmetrical while others were clearly unsymmetrical. The duality of the labeling patterns found in these 14 CO 2 biosyntheses, together with other data on pyrrolidine ring biosynthesis which are critically examined, is best rationalized by postulating two biosynthetic pathways for formation of the pyrrolidine ring, one involving a symmetrical precursor and the other an unsymmetrical one.
User Independent Gaze Estimation by Exploiting Similarity Measures in the Eye Pair Appearance Eigenspace

The design of gaze-based computer interfaces has been an active research area for over 40 years. One challenge of using gaze detectors is the repetitive calibration process required to adjust the parameters of the systems, and the constrained conditions imposed on the user for robust gaze estimation. We envision user-independent gaze detectors that do not require calibration, or any cooperation from the user. Toward this goal, we investigate an appearance-based approach, where we estimate the eigenspace for the gaze using principal component analysis (PCA). The projections are used as features of regression models that estimate the screen's coordinates. As expected, the performance of the approach decreases when the models are trained without data from the target user (i.e., user-independent condition). This study proposes an appealing training approach to bridge the gap in performance between user-dependent and user-independent conditions. Using the projections onto the eigenspace, the scheme identifies samples in training set that are similar to the testing images. We build the sample covariance matrix and the regression models only with these samples. We consider either similar frames or data from subjects with similar eye appearance. The promising results suggest that the proposed training approach is a feasible and convenient scheme for gaze-based multimodal interfaces.
Art, Meet Chemistry; Chemistry, Meet Art: Case Studies, Current Literature, and Instrumental Methods Combined To Create a Hands-On Experience for Nonmajors and Instrumental Analysis Students

Case studies and current literature are combined with spectroscopic analysis to provide a unique chemistry experience for art history students and to provide a unique inquiry-based laboratory experiment for analytical chemistry students. The XRF analysis method was used to demonstrate to nonscience majors (art history students) a powerful application of chemistry. Spectroscopy was used in the examination of a painting to determine the chemical components of the pigments used. In addition to demonstrating the XRF methods to art history students, chemistry students in instrumental analysis used spectroscopy, including XRF, to examine both the chemical composition of the paints used as well as the presence of an underpainting.
Multiple-dose bioavailability study of a sustained-release theophylline product: choledyl S.A. tablets

Abstract The bioavailabilities of two sustained release preparations containing choline theophyllinate (Choledyl S.A. 400 mg and 600 mg tablets) have been studied in 12 healthy volunteers using multiple doses. The extent of bioavailability estimated for each tablet was not significantly different to that of Choledyl elixir. When data were adjusted to give a mean steady-state theophylline concentration of 12.5 mg litre, no significant differences in peak-trough swings were observed between the elixir taken over a 5-h dosage interval and the tablets taken over a 12-h dosage interval. The tablets would therefore appear adequate for use on a twice-daily basis in the majority of patients but in those with short half-lives, e.g. children and smokers, 8 hourly dosing would be more appropriate.
Surface construction from planar contours

Abstract Many applications of computer graphics involve the display of a three-dimensional solid reconstructed from a sequence of two-dimensional planar contours. Surface construction algorithms accomplish this by mapping individual pairs of contours, forming triangular surface patches, that approximate the original three-dimensional solid. In this paper, we present an expanded algorithm that not only handles the mappings of multiple contours per plane and partial contour mappings, but also allows human interaction to resolve mapping problems. We include a discussion of our algorithm's limitations and the proposed solutions to those limitations.
Microstructural characterization, meso-scale modeling and multiple-scale analysis of discretely reinforced materials

This paper presents an overview of physically motivated computational models that are developed to link quantitative metallography, meso- and multiple-scale analysis for discretely reinforced non-uniform composites. Three-dimensional microstructure models are constructed by serially arranging the digitally acquired section micrographs obtained through serial sectioning. Characterization studies using spatial correlation, intensity and distribution functions show significant differences between 2D and 3D images. Mesoscopic analyses for particle damage by cracking and splitting are carried out in 2D by the Voronoi cell finite element method (VCFEM) and validated against experimental observations. Finally, the microstructural VCFEM is coupled with structural analysis models to concurrently predict evolution at macroscopic and microscopic scales.
Screening of Excitons in GaN Crystals

A study was made of the screening of excitons in a GaN sample, which was simultaneously excited with a HeCd laser and an ion laser. The ion laser excites carriers in a two step process, involving an impurity or defect. A comparison with transport measurements shows that the photoluminescence is probably emitted from a higher-quality portion of the sample than that which conducts the current.
Progress in pediatric trauma.

The handling of trauma victims in the pediatric age group has undergone change and improvement in a number of ways. First, receiving facilities, emergency rooms, medical centers, and tertiary pediatric care facilities have all been brought together by community, state, regional, and national planning which has taken into account population needs and the resources of each facility. Communication by telephone, radio, and computerized information transmitters has linked together a series of medical facilities which now assures that each child is treated appropraitely or passed along to a different unit in the chain. The education of all members of the emergency medical services to the special techniques, equipment, and needs of pediatric patients has been essential to proper handling of injured children.