cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Therapeutic Challenge Due to Infection with an Unusual New Delhi Metallo-Beta-Lactamase-Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Pregnancy

Abstract Connecticut saw its first multi-drug- and carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) isolate in 2019. The global prevalence of such isolates has gradually increased over the past few years. Resistance was mediated in part by the presence of New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM), a recently described carbapenemase that is more commonly found in members of the Enterobacterales, and is associated with travel to India and regions of the Middle East. We were asked to see a 32-year-old female with a urinary tract infection due to this pan-resistant Pseudomonas isolate. The patient presented a therapeutic challenge due to lack of available therapy in a complicated pregnancy.
Is routine 24-hour urine calcium measurement useful during the evaluation of primary hyperparathyroidism?

Abstract Background Primary hyperparathyroidism and familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia have similar biochemical profiles, and calcium-to-creatinine-clearance ratio helps distinguish the two. Additionally, 24-hour urine calcium >400 mg/day indicates surgery and guidelines recommend obtaining 24-hour urine calcium preoperatively. Our aim was to assess how 24-hour urine calcium altered care in the evaluation of suspected primary hyperparathyroidism. Methods Consecutive patients assessed for primary hyperparathyroidism from 2018 to 2020 were reviewed. Primary hyperparathyroidism was diagnosed by 2016 American Association of Endocrine Surgeons Parathyroidectomy Guidelines criteria. 24-hour urine calcium-directed change in care was defined as familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia diagnosis, surgical deferment for additional testing, or 24-hour urine calcium >400 mg/day as the sole surgical indication. Results Of 613 patients, 565 (92%) completed 24-hour urine calcium and 477 (84%) had concurrent biochemical testing to calculate calcium-to-creatinine-clearance ratio. 24-hour urine calcium was 100 mg/day (56%), prior normal calcium (16%), renal insufficiency (11%), absence of familial hypercalcemia (3%), normal repeat 24-hour urine calcium (10%), or interfering diuretic (1%). 24-hour urine calcium-directed change in care occurred in 25 (4%), including 4 (1%) who had genetic testing. Four-gland hyperplasia was more common with calcium-to-creatinine-clearance ratio Conclusion 24-hour urine calcium compliance was high, and results affected management in 4%, including productive identification of hypercalciuria as the sole surgical indication in 2 patients. When calcium-to-creatinine-clearance ratio
Magnetic susceptibility and R2* of myocardial reperfusion injury at 3T and 7T.

PURPOSE Magnetic susceptibility (Δχ) alterations have shown association with myocardial infarction (MI) iron deposition, yet there remains limited understanding of the relationship between relaxation rates and susceptibility or the effect of magnetic field strength. Hence, Δχ and R2∗ in MI were compared at 3T and 7T. METHODS Subacute MI was induced by coronary artery ligation in male Yorkshire swine. 3D multiecho gradient echo imaging was performed at 1-week postinfarction at 3T and 7T. Quantitative susceptibility mapping images were reconstructed using a morphology-enabled dipole inversion. R2∗ maps and quantitative susceptibility mapping were generated to assess the relationship between R2∗ , Δχ, and field strength. Infarct histopathology was investigated. RESULTS Magnetic susceptibility was not significantly different across field strengths (7T: 126.8 ± 41.7 ppb; 3T: 110.2 ± 21.0 ppb, P = NS), unlike R2∗ (7T: 247.0 ± 14.8 Hz; 3T: 106.1 ± 6.5 Hz, P < .001). Additionally, infarct Δχ and R2∗ were significantly higher than remote myocardium. Magnetic susceptibility at 7T versus 3T had a significant association (β = 1.02, R2 = 0.82, P < .001), as did R2∗ (β = 2.35, R2 = 0.98, P < .001). Infarct pathophysiology and iron deposition were detected through histology and compared with imaging findings. CONCLUSION R2∗ showed dependence and Δχ showed independence of field strength. Histology validated the presence of iron and supported imaging findings.
Enhanced heat transfer in a horizontal channel with double electrodes

Enhancement in heat transfer using electrohydrodynamic (EHD) technique is numerically examined for laminar forced convection in a horizontal channel with two electrodes. Attention is also focused on the effect of added electric field on the flow stability. The electrical field is generated by positive corona from wire electrodes charged with a high DC voltage (10/spl les/V/sub 0//spl les/17.5 kV). The flow Reynolds numbers considered are in the range of 75/spl les/Re/spl les/2400. For a given electric field, oscillation in the flow and temperature fields has been observed for flows at small Reynolds numbers. The flow and temperature fields tend to stabilize when the Reynolds number is increased. Due to the existence of secondary flows, there is an improvement in heat transfer and it is most notable far flows at a small Reynolds number. In addition, it is found that heat transfer enhancement increases with the applied voltage.
Quvenzhané and the Comedians: Black Girlhood and Sexuality at the “Edge” of Mediated Humor

During the 2013 Academy Awards, the satirical newspaper The Onion tweeted a sexually explicit message about the child actress Quvenzhane Wallis. While the racism and sexism of the tweet drew fire, the tweet was also hotly defended by comedians who insisted that it functioned to “expand the boundaries of comedy.” In this essay, the tweet is analyzed as a “discourse knot” to interrogate the intersections of comedic discourse and the construction of Black girlhood in U.S. culture. The study's 2 key findings are that first, purportedly “edgy” comedy can function to sustain social power hierarchies, and second, Black girlhood constitutes an unintelligible subject position in the Foucauldian sense, necessitating rigorous attention, especially with regard to issues of cultural sexualization.
Issue Accountability and the Mass Public

Under what conditions, if any, does the mass electorate hold congressional members accountable for their records on specific issues? We examine this question on the issue of crime, for which salience has varied substantially and opinion has favored Republicans, and the environment, for which salience has not varied much and voters have favored Democrats. Because different parametric specifications produce divergent findings, we utilize matching analysis in addition to ordinary least squares. The tests suggest that issue accountability exists even controlling for a member's overall record. However, such accountability depends crucially on issue salience and a member's partisan affiliation.
Resonance Absorption in Materials with Grain Structure

The problem of resonance absorption is investigated for materials in which the absorber is lumped in small grains imbedded in a matrix of moderator. The grains themselves are taken as the fundamental elements in heterogeneous geometry. It is important to treat correctly the mutual shielding between the grains, that is, the Dancoff correction. Introduction of this correction solves immediately the case of macroscopically homogeneous assemblies. The result can be expressed in terms of shielded'' cross sections for the lumped absorber. Utilization of this concept permits the treatment of additional macroscopic heterogeneities. Conventional calculational methods can be employed if the macroscopic heterogeneities are treated with the help of the equivalence relations, and this procedure permits an adequate comparison between the grainstructured and homogeneous compounds. Numerical examples are given. The average shielding is nearly linear in the grain size. For grains of ThO/sub 2/ in a graphite matrix, the reduction is about 15% for grains of 0.06 cm diam. On the other hand, the temperature derivative of the resonance integral is increased slightly, particularly at higher temperatures. Therefore either the Doppler coefficient of reactivity may be maintained with a reduced resonance absorption or the Doppler coefficient may be increased for the samemore » resonance absorption. (auth)« less
The Problem of Development in the Non‐Western World

Victims of Progress. John H. Bodley. Politics and Society in the Third World. Jean-Yves Calvez. M. J. O'Connell, trans. The Sociology of the Third World: Disparity and Involvement. J. E. Goldthorpe. Enterprise: Industrial Entrepreneurship in Development: Based on Case Studies from the Sudan. K. A. Hammeed. La Pluralite des mondes: Theorie et pratiques du developpement. Institut D'Etudes du Developpement. Economic Development, Peace and International Law. Wil D. Verwey. Preface by B. V. A. Roling, Polemological Studies.
Comments on Estimators Based on Error in the Predicted Distribution Function

In estimation of percentiles in the exponential distribution, the distribution function evaluated at the estimated percentile is often evaluated for purposes of warranty considerations. Optimal estimators are discussed and compared on their error in the predicted distribution function. Inconsistency is shown to exist between measures of closeness and measures of risk in the predicted distribution function. An optimal estimator based on absolute loss in the predicted distribution function is obtained and shown to be superior in measures of closeness to the optimal estimator, which minimizes squared error loss in the predicted distribution function.
Cow's milk allergy in a patient with hyper-IgE syndrome.

Background Both hyper-IgE syndrome and food allergies can result in the early onset of skin rash, eosinophilia, and markedly elevated serum IgE. Occasionally, it can be difficult to distinguish the 2 disorders. Most patients with hyper-IgE syndrome do not have food allergy. Objective To describe a child with cow's milk allergy associated with hyper-IgE syndrome manifesting as failure to thrive (FTT). Methods Epicutaneous skin prick test to cow's milk, CAP radioallergosorbent test, atopy patch tests, and double-blind, placebo-controlled milk challenge (DBPCMC) were performed. Results During initial presentation at 3 weeks of age, the circulating eosinophil count increased from 13,800/mm 3 to 44,254/mm 3 within 2 weeks while taking cephalexin. Despite treatment, he had worsening rash and FTT at 10 weeks of age with an IgE level of 8,454 U/mL. After changing from an infant milk formula with whey protein to an amino acid-based formula in combination with oral antibiotic treatment, his rash and growth velocity improved markedly within 2 months. IgE decreased to 2,747 U/mL. He remained clinically well for 12 months. He subsequently developed additional food and inhalant allergies with an increase in IgE to 12,150 U/mL. Cow's milk allergy was confirmed by epicutaneous skin prick test, atopy patch test, and DBPCMC. Conclusions Traditional prophylactic antistaphylococcal antibiotics, in combination with Neocate formula, were effective in treating the early skin manifestations of hyper-IgE syndrome and FTT in this infant. Cow's milk protein allergy should be considered in patients with hyper-IgE syndrome and FTT.
Scriptedness and Televised Sports: Violent Consumption and Viewer Enjoyment

Extending Raney and Depalma’s research, this study examined effects of sport production on sport consumption. An experimental design crossed scripted (vs. unscripted) sport with violence (vs. nonviolence) to investigate the effects of both variables on violent outcomes and enjoyment. After viewing one of four clips, participants responded to three incomplete story stems, and responses were coded to measure hostile expectancy bias as a form of violent outcome. Participants also responded to their enjoyment of the clip they consumed. Analyses showed a main effect that consuming sport violence increased participants’ hostile expectancy bias. However, a significant interaction showed that scriptedness moderated this effect, such that violence increased hostile expectancy bias only in the scripted condition. Enjoyment was also affected by scriptedness and violence, as violent nonscripted sports were enjoyed more than all other conditions. Results suggest that violence in sports may be interpreted differently b...
Acromioclavicular stability: a biomechanical comparison of acromioplasty to acromioplasty with coplaning of the distal clavicle

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to compare the laxity of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint in the superior, posterior, and anterior planes after isolated acromioplasty and after acromioplasty with inferior clavicular coplaning. Type of Study: In vitro (cadaveric) analysis. Methods: Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were evaluated using a hydraulic actuator. While the scapula was stabilized, a 30-N force was applied to the distal clavicle perpendicular to the AC joint in the superoinferior plane and parallel to the joint in the anteroposterior plane. Laxity of the AC joint in the superior, anterior, and posterior directions was evaluated via load-displacement analysis after acromioplasty and after acromioplasty with coplaning. Results: Coplaning the distal clavicle increased superior AC laxity by 53% compared with acromioplasty alone (P = .012). With regard to anteroposterior laxity, coplaning increased anterior translation by 19% (P = .047) and increased posterior translation by 16% (P = .237). Bony impingement was seen to limit posterior translation in 3 specimens. Conclusions: Acromioplasty with coplaning increases AC laxity significantly in the superior and anterior directions as compared with acromioplasty alone. A trend toward increased posterior translation was found; posterior bony impingement may limit posterior laxity.
Indirect coupling between sodium and urate transport in the proximal tubule.

Cet article de synthese fait le point sur le transport de l'urate dans le tube proximal. Rappel sur le transport de l'urate in vivo. Mecanisme de transport de l'acide urique au niveau de la bordure en brosse et de la membrane basolaterale. Relation entre la reabsorption du sodium et de l'urate in vivo et en particulier a travers la bordure en brosse
Random Copolymer Films with Molecular‐Scale Compositional Heterogeneities that Interfere with Protein Adsorption

Smooth surfaces with compositional heterogeneities at a molecular-length scale are presented with the goal of disrupting surface-protein interactions. These surfaces are synthesized by utilizing photoinitiated chemical vapor deposition (piCVD) to deposit thin films of random copolymers consisting of highly hydrophilic and highly hydrophobic comonomers. Swellability, wettability, and surface roughness could be systematically controlled by tuning the copolymer composition. The surface composition was dynamic, and the surface reconstructed based on the hydration state of the film. Proteins adsorbed to the copolymer films less readily than to either of the respective homopolymers, indicating a synergistic effect resulting from the random copolymer presenting molecular-scale compositional heterogeneity. These results provide direct evidence that protein adsorption can be disrupted by such surfaces and a simple analytical model suggests that the heterogeneities occur over areas encompassing 4-5 repeat units of the polymer. The synthetic method used to create these films can be used to coat arbitrary geometries, enabling practical utility in a number of applications.
Theory of nonlinear control

Abstract In the introduction the author discusses the nonlinearity in Nature as exemplified by a simple pendulum, inverse square laws of gravitation and electromagnetism, electronics, and planetary motion.Nonlinear feedback control systems have been analyzed in symposia sponsored by Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and Institute of Radio Engineers. Even nonlinear system synthesis has been attempted. Part II discusses the three stages in the study of physical systems: (1) Development of linear system analysis and idealization of actual systems as linear; (2) Recognition of nonlinear systems and analysis of such systems as they actually are; and (3) Introduction of the new concept of nonlinear control and improvement of the performance of linear and nonlinear systems. Under (3) it is recognized that besides linear compensation of systems with nonlinearities the logical alternative might be the nonlinear feedback control of physical systems for either stability or optimum response. Part I I I starts with a review of linearizing techniques developed by Kochenburger, Johnson, Klotter, and others, known as the describing function method. Other quasi-linearization, equivalent linearization, and piecewise linearization techniques by Chen, Booton, Bass, and Stern are discussed. Part IV deals with the phase-space, the switching surface, and related concepts. The method of simultaneous phase-plane equations in a multi-degree-of-freedom system is especially adaptable to nonlinear feedback control system analysis. The phase-space approach has been used by Kalman, Hopkin, and others for the design of nonlinear servomechanisms. Part V covers new analytic techniques and new transforms.Papers by Pipes, Madwed, L. J. Lewis, Gillies, Stout, E. Weber, and others are reviewed. Taylor-Cauchy transforms for nonlinear systems are presented. Part VI discusses theory of nonlinear systems, including recent developments in stability theory and criteria, optimum nonlinear control systems, sampled-data systems, and nonlinear systems with random igputs.These recent developments give substantial support to the author's statement: “The newest aspect of feedback control is the development of the theory of nonlinear control.”
A new tariff map of the United States (House of Representatives)

Abstract This article examines the regional basis of US tariff policy as reflected in the 1987 vote in the House of Representatives on the Gephardt Amendment to the 1988 Omnibus Trade Act. The Amendment was a major protectionist proposal that would have reversed the secular trend toward trade liberalization initiated in 1934. There are reasons for expecting that the decline of America's hegemony in the international economy, combined with endogenously-generated changes in the structure of the domestic economy, would alter historic regional cleavages respecting trade policy. The probit estimates indicate that new regional differences have emerged to influence voting behavior in the House on trade policy. The historic regional foundations of trade policy familiar since the early 19th century have been transformed: the North remains the most protectionist region, but the traditionally liberal South now approaches the North in protectionist sentiment, while the once protectionist West, and especially the Northwest, have become predominantly liberal. These effects persist when partisanship and congressional district characteristics are taken into account, and have important implications for the future of American politics and the international trading system.
Anion specificity of the jejunal folate carrier: effects of reduced folate analogues on folate uptake and efflux

We previously reported that 3H-folate uptake by rabbit jejunal brush-border membrane (BBM) vesicles was markedly stimulated by an outwardly directed OH- gradient (pHin 7.7, pHout 5.5), inhibited by anion exchange inhibitors (DIDS, SITS, furosemide), and saturable (folate Km = 0.19 microM) suggesting carrier-mediated folate/OH- exchange (or H+/folate cotransport). In the present study, the anion specificity of this transport process was examined. Under conditions of an outwardly directed OH- gradient, DIDS-sensitive folate uptake was cis inhibited (greater than 90%) by reduced folate analogues: dihydrofolate (IC50 = 0.40 microM), folinic acid (IC50 = 0.50 microM), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (IC50 = 0.53 microM), and (+)amethopterin (IC50 = 0.93 microM). In contrast, 10 microM (-)amethopterin had only a modest effect on folate uptake (18% inhibition) suggesting stereospecificity of the folate/OH- exchanger. The nonpteridine compounds which are transported by the folate carrier in L1210 leukemic cells (phthalate, thiamine pyrophosphate, and PO4(-3] did not inhibit jejunal folate uptake. Furthermore, folate uptake was not inhibited by SO4(-2) (4 mM) or oxalate (4 mM) thereby distinguishing this carrier from the previously described intestinal SO4(-2)/OH- and oxalate/Cl- exchangers. After BBM vesicles were loaded with 3H-folate, the initial velocity of 3H-folate efflux was stimulated by unlabeled folate in the efflux medium. The transstimulation of 3H-folate efflux by unlabeled folate was furosemide (or DIDS) inhibitable and temperature sensitive. Half-maximal stimulation of furosemide-sensitive 3H-folate efflux was observed with 0.25 +/- 0.05 microM unlabeled folate, a concentration similar to the Km for folate uptake. These data suggest that folate-stimulated 3H-folate efflux is mediated by the folate/OH- exchanger.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Graft Replacement of the Thoracic Aorta with a Sutureless Technique

A sutureless intraluminal graft requiring only ligature fixation was used for replacement of the thoracic aorta in 8 patients. The graft was deployed in the ascending and descending thoracic aorta as well as in the arch. It was used for aortic dissection and atherosclerotic aneurysms. Insertion was easy and relatively quick. Fixation was secure and without serious complications. Seven of the 8 patients became long-term survivors.
Combined neuroprotective modalities coupled with thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke: a pilot study of caffeinol and mild hypothermia.

Background Both caffeinol and hypothermia are neuroprotective in preclinical models of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. We tested whether combining caffeinol and hypothermia with tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) in patients with acute stroke is safe and feasible. Methods Twenty patients with acute ischemic stroke were treated with caffeinol (caffeine 8-9 mg/kg + ethanol 0.4 g/kg intravenously [IV] × 2 hours, started by 4 hours after symptom onset) and hypothermia (started by 5 hours and continued for 24 hours [target temperature 33-35°C] followed by 12 hours of rewarming). IV t-PA was given to eligible patients. Meperidine and buspirone were used to suppress shivering. Results All patients received caffeinol, and most reached target blood levels. Cooling was attempted in 18 patients via endovascular (n = 8) or surface (n = 10) approaches. Two patients were not cooled due to catheter or machine failure. Thirteen patients reached target temperature; average time from symptom onset was 9 hours and 43 minutes. The last 5 hypothermia patients received surface cooling with iced saline induction and larger doses of meperidine; all patients reached target temperature, on average within 2 hours and 30 minutes from induction and 6 hours and 21 minutes from symptom onset. Three patients died: one from symptomatic hemorrhage, one from malignant cerebral edema, and one from unrelated medical complications. No adverse events were attributed to caffeinol. One patient had reduced respiratory drive due to meperidine, requiring BiPAP. Discussion Combining caffeinol with hypothermia in patients with acute stroke given IV t-PA is feasible. A prospective placebo-controlled randomized study is needed to further assess safety and to test the efficacy of caffeinol, hypothermia, or both.
Let the Punishment Fit the Crime: Teacher-Student Interactions.

AbstractOne of the major current concerns in higher education is the utilization of modes of instruction that differ from the traditional lecture or small seminar formats. Such modes of instruction have in the past been evaluated by utilizing a comparative model that seeks to assess whether one method is better than another. This paper argues that the interaction model, which seeks to determine for what type of student is what type of instruction best, is more appropriate. Several studies of interaction effects between student characteristics and mode of presentation are outlined and their implications are discussed.
Opioid Prescribing by Physicians With and Without Electronic Health Records

Background Physicians in the U.S. are adopting electronic health records (EHRs) at an unprecedented rate. However, little is known about how EHR use relates to physicians’ care decisions. Using nationally representative data, we estimated how using practice-based EHRs relates to opioid prescribing in primary care.
Outline of a mathematical approach to the cancer problem

The fact that the growth of every organism, as it develops through cell multiplication from the ovum, eventually ceases, makes plausible the hypothesis that each cell of an organism exerts some kind of inhibitory influence upon the growth and multiplication of every other cell through the medium of some factorj. Each cell, however, is considered to possess an amount of a “growth factor”g, the activity of which is inhibited byj. In the course of development, most cells differentiate. A number of them remains relatively undifferentiated, and those are used for repairs of natural tear and wear as well as for healing of wounds. With age either the number of those cells or their “potency” decreases, which accounts for a general decrease in the speed of wound healing. Due to statistical fluctuations, the amount of theg is not uniformly distributed amongst the cells. Some of them have accidentally a greater amount than others. As the number or potency of the undifferentiated cells decreases with age, so does their inhibitory influence upon other cells. Therefore, those cells which do have an accidental dental excess ofg-factor will begin to grow and multiply, producing neoplasms. Putting the above assumptions into mathematical form, it is possible to derive a relation which gives theprobability of cancer incidence as a function of age. The theoretical relation is compared to the rather inadequate empirical data and found in agreement with them. A relation for the speed of wound healing as a function of age is also derived, and also found in general agreement with the rather scant data. Several other conclusions are discussed and possibilities of their practical applications pointed out.
Prolonged Recovery of Desiccated Adenoviral Serotypes 5, 8, and 19 from Plastic and Metal Surfaces In Vitro

Background: Prevention of the spread of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) at eye care facilities (doctors' offices, clinics, hospitals) has been a major public health goal for ophthalmology for more than 50 years. The authors explored a potentially contributing attribute of the adenovirus serotypes that cause EKC. Specifically, they investigated the capacity of different clinical and laboratory ocular serotypes (AD8, 19, and 5) to survive for extended periods of time in a desiccated state. Methods: Twenty microliters containing 2000 plaque-forming units of different ATCC laboratory adenoviral ocular serotypes (AD8, 19, and 5) and clinical isolates (AD8 Cray, AD19 Kowalski, and AD5 McEwen) were inoculated onto 7-mm plastic disks and 6-mm aluminum foil disks and were allowed to completely desiccate. At weekly intervals up to 7 weeks, eight desiccated virus-inoculated plastic or metal disks per serotype were added to tissue culture medium, and the amount of recoverable virus was determined by plaque assay on A549 cells. Results: Ocular adenoviral serotypes AD8, 19, and 5 could be recovered up to 49 days from plastic, and 35 to 49 days from metal. Sufficient virus concentrations (>100 plaque-forming units/disk) to be clinically infectious were recovered up to 28 days. Differences in recovery among serotypes (AD19 > AD5, AD8) were demonstrated, but laboratory and clinical isolates of the same serotype were usually comparable. Conclusions: Ocular isolates of adenovirus that cause EKC are much hardier than previously suspected, and the capacity to survive in a desiccated state may possibly play some role in office-based mini-epidemics of EKC.
Incorporating the Dominant Social Paradigm into Government Technology Transfer Programs

SUMMARY This paper examines problems implicit in transferring technology from developed countries to lesser developed countries. This is done from the perspective of the dominant social paradigm, and argues that the limited success of governmental transfer programs can be attributed to paradigm conflicts between the developer of technology and the recipient. The conclusion suggests that the effectiveness of government technology transfer programs can be improved if a dual approach is adopted. For transfers to lesser developed countries, the initial step should be to understand the differences in paradigms, and this should be followed by the development of appropriate technologies that enhance the development potential of the recipient in terms of the recipients' values and worldviews.
Effect of directed (radial) gas flow on sputtering and emission characteristics in radio frequency powered glow discharge devices

Abstract An assembly has been constructed for the radial introduction of Ar support gas toward the cathode surface of a radio frequency glow discharge atomic emission device. Studies of directed gas flow suggest two counteracting processes. At lower flow rates ( ml min ), the gas has a sweeping effect to remove sputtered material from the region directly above the cathode surface, presumably inhibiting the redeposition process. At higher flow rates, a localized high-pressure region is established with a consequent lowering of the dc bias potential and resultant decrease in sputtering rates. Use of directed gas flow is found to increase the extent of self-absorption for low-lying atomic transitions, while ionic emission is found to be enhanced. The use of continuous, radial gas introduction allows for retention of desired sputter crater shapes.
Patterns of discrimination in assessments of the death penalty: The case of Louisiana

This work contributes to a growing body of literature by analyzing patterns of capital punishment sentencing in Louisiana during the post-Furman era. The specific focus of the study was to determine whether patterns of discrimination by race continue to persist. A logit model was utilized with data consisting of 504 cases of homicide eligible for capital punishment, fifty-three of which had been assigned the death penalty. Results indicated that a pattern of discrimination by race of victim, but not by race of offender, existed, even when a number of legal and extra-legal factors were controlled. In addition, an effect for sex of the victim was noted. Another pattern found, that of capriciousness, is also discussed.
Why a Lisp-based command language?

Everyone now agrees that there is a major programmer productivity crisis in the computing industry today. Reports in Computerworld suggest that within a few years data processing will surpass vegetable farming as the U.S.'s most labor-intensive industry. Clearly, any development that promises to improve programmer productivity substantially is of great importance.One important development has been the growth of programmable system command languages. Since every user needs to learn about the command language in order to use a computer system at all, the more work that can be done at the command language level, the less programming in conventional languages will be required.
On the existence of the least squares estimate in nonlinear growth curve models of exponential type

A general criterion for the existence of a global minimizer of a continuous function on a noncompact set is developed. Criteria for the existence of the least squares estimate in some popular nonlinear growth curve models of exponential type are derived: the quasilinear regression model, two- and three-parameter exponential model, modified exponential model, Gompertz curve, and logistic model. The concept of the ”existence level”, as the minimum of the sum of squares on the boundary of the parameter set, is introduced. Simple procedures for checking whether a nonlinear least squares estimate exists, and suitable initial starting values for particular growth curve models are presented. These concepts and derived criteria are illustrated using the logistic model on a real life biomediral example of mouse tumor growth.
Thrombosed iliac venous aneurysm: a rare cause of left lower extremity venous obstruction.

Abstract A patient who had deep venous obstruction of the left lower limb was shown to have thrombosis of a venous aneurysm of the left common iliac vein that measured 8.8 cm at the largest diameter. The aneurysm was suspected on the basis of preoperative noninvasive testing. Findings at surgery suggested the left iliac vein was being compressed by the right iliac artery. The aneurysm was resected and prosthetic graft material was used to reconstruct the venous system. A 22-month follow-up is recorded. Literature pertaining to the case is discussed. (J Vasc Surg 1989;9:822–4.)
State-Selective Laser Photochemistry of Formaldehyde on Ag(111)

State-selective (VUV + UV) resonant multiphoton ionization is used to measure the state- and energy-distributions of the gas-phase products which accompany the UV photoinduced polymerization of formaldehyde on Ag(111). At 355 nm, only direct desorption of H2CO is observed, whereas both CO product formation and H2CO desorption are found at 266 nm. The rotational state and translational energies of the desorbed CO products exhibit a “fast” channel associated with a prompt fragmentation process and a “slow” channel in near-thermal equilibrium with the Ag surface. No gas-phase hydrogen products (H atoms, H2) were detected during UV exposure, but H2 desorption is observed during breakup of the polymer above 200 K. The time-dependent desorption yields for both slow CO and H2CO are strongly temperature dependent and reflect the rate of polymerization. A simple kinetic model is used to describe the competing processes of desorption, fragmentation, and polymerization which ultimately result from the decay or fragm...
Precision of Five Structures for Estimating Age of Common Carp

Abstract Otoliths (asteriscus) have been validated as an accurate structure for estimating age of common carp Cyprinus carpio. However, extraction and processing of common carp otoliths are time consuming and require sacrifice of fish. Therefore, we analyzed age estimation precision of four alternative structures relative to otolith age for 139 common carp collected from five eastern South Dakota lakes. All common carp were collected using daytime electrofishing. Each fish was assigned an identification number and measured to the nearest millimeter total length, after which aging structures were removed. Age was estimated from scales, vertebrae, opercles, pectoral fin rays, and asteriscus otoliths by methods similar to those recommended by previous researchers. Relative to otolith age, average percent error was 6.8% for scales, 15.4% for vertebrae, 9.9% for opercles, and 1.2% for pectoral fin rays. Compared with all other structures, ages from pectoral fin ray sections were nearly as precise as otoliths t...
Do pediatric drugs cause developing neurons to commit suicide

Abstract When neuronal activity is abnormally suppressed during the developmental period of synaptogenesis, the timing and sequence of synaptic connections are disrupted. This causes nerve cells to receive an internal signal to commit suicide, a form of cell death known as ‘apoptosis'. By altering glutamate and GABA transmission (thereby suppressing neuronal activity), alcohol causes millions of nerve cells in the developing brain to commit suicide. This provides a likely explanation for the clinical observation that in utero exposure of human fetuses to alcohol leads to diminished brain size and lifelong neurobehavioral disturbances [called fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)]. These findings have public health significance in relation to FAS and many other drugs, including drugs used in obstetric and pediatric medicine that can act by this same mechanism to drive developing neurons to commit suicide.
Dose-dependent transcriptome changes by metal ores on a human acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line.

The increased morbidity of childhood leukemia in Fallon, Nevada and Sierra Vista, Arizona has prompted great health concern. The main characteristic that these two towns share is the environmental pollution attributed to metal ore from abandoned mining operations. Consequently, we have investigated the transcriptome effects of metal ores from these endemic areas using a human T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line (T-ALL). Metal ore from Fallon significantly increased cell growth after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation at 1.5 mg/mL concentration, as measured by trypan-blue. Sierra Vista ore significantly increased cell growth with 0.15 and 1.5 mg/mL following 72 h of incubation. From human cDNA microarray, results indicate that in total, eight genes, mostly metallothionein (MT) genes, were up-regulated and 10 genes were down-regulated following treatment of the T-ALL cells with 0.15 and 1.5 mg/mL of metal ores at 72 h, in comparison with untreated cells. Twenty-eight metals of both ores were quantified...
Role of IscX in Iron-Sulfur Cluster Biogenesis in Escherichia coli

The Escherichia coli isc operon encodes key proteins involved in the biosynthesis of iron–sulfur (Fe–S) clusters. Whereas extensive studies of most ISC proteins have revealed their functional properties, the role of IscX (also dubbed YfhJ), a small acidic protein encoded by the last gene in the operon, has remained in question. Previous studies showed that IscX binds iron ions and interacts with the cysteine desulfurase (IscS) and the scaffold protein for cluster assembly (IscU), and it has been proposed that IscX functions either as an iron supplier or a regulator of Fe–S cluster biogenesis. We have used a combination of NMR spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), chemical cross-linking, and enzymatic assays to enlarge our understanding of the interactions of IscX with iron ions, IscU, and IscS. We used chemical shift perturbation to identify the binding interfaces of IscX and IscU in their complex. NMR studies showed that Fe2+ from added ferrous ammonium sulfate binds IscX much more avidly than does Fe3+ from added ferric ammonium citrate and that Fe2+ strengthens the interaction between IscX and IscU. We found that the addition of IscX to the IscU–IscS binary complex led to the formation of a ternary complex with reduced cysteine desulfurasemore » activity, and we determined a low-resolution model for that complex from a combination of NMR and SAXS data. We postulate that the inhibition of cysteine desulfurase activity by IscX serves to reduce unproductive conversion of cysteine to alanine. By incorporating these new findings with results from prior studies, we propose a detailed mechanism for Fe–S cluster assembly in which IscX serves both as a donor of Fe2+ and as a regulator of cysteine desulfurase activity.« less
Phase I trial of pemetrexed plus oxaliplatin administered every other week in patients with metastatic cancer.

Purpose: To identify the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and describe dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) of pemetrexed and oxaliplatin given on a once-every-2-week schedule in patients with metastatic cancer. Patients and methods: Twenty-five patients were enrolled. Due to toxicities observed at the first dose level in unselected patients, a second MTD was determined in patients who had received zero to two prior chemotherapy regimens. Results: DLT was observed at dose level 1—pemetrexed 400 mg/m2 and oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2—in the form of grade 3 fatigue in two of six patients. Enrollment was then limited to lightly pretreated patients and DLT was observed at dose level 2—pemetrexed 500 mg/m2 and oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2—in the form of neutropenic fever in one of five patients. Complete response was confirmed in one patient (squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck) and partial response was confirmed in three patients. Conclusions: The combination of pemetrexed and oxaliplatin can be safely administered at doses of 400 to 500 mg/m2 of pemetrexed and 85 mg/m2 in patients without extensive prior therapy and 300 and 85 mg/m2, respectively, every 2 weeks in patients with more extensive prior therapy. Based on promising results observed in this study, a phase II trial in patients with recurrent head and neck cancer has been initiated.
Bounds and Self-Consistent Estimates for Creep of Polycrystalline Materials

A study of steady creep of face centred cubic (f.c.c.) and ionic polycrystals as it relates to single crystal creep behaviour is made by using an upper bound technique and a self-consistent method. Creep on a crystallographic slip system is assumed to occur in proportion to the resolved shear stress to a power. For the identical systems of an f.c.c. crystal the slip-rate on any system is taken as $\gamma =\alpha (\tau /\tau \_{0})^{n}$ where $\alpha $ is a reference strain-rate $\tau $ is the resolved shear stress and $\tau \_{0}$ is the reference shear stress. The tensile behaviour of a polycrystal of randomly orientated single crystals can be expressed as $\overline{\epsilon}=\alpha (\overline{\sigma}/\overline{\sigma}\_{0})^{n}$ where $\overline{\epsilon}$ and $\overline{\sigma}$ are the overall uniaxial strain-rate and stress and $\overline{\sigma}\_{0}$ is the uniaxial reference stress. The central result for an f.c.c. polycrystal in tension can be expressed as $\overline{\sigma}\_{0}=h(n)\tau \_{0}$. Calculated bounds to $h(n)$ coincide at one extreme $(n=\infty)$ with the Taylor result for rigid/perfectly plastic behaviour and at the other $(n=1)$ with the Voigt bound for linear viscoelastic behaviour. The self-consistent results, which are shown to be highly accurate for $n=1$, agree closely with the upper bound for $n\geq 3$. Two types of glide systems are considered for ionic crystals: A-systems, {110} $\langle 110\rangle $, with $\gamma =\alpha (\tau /\tau \_{\text{A}})^{n}$; and B-systems, {100} $\langle 110\rangle $, with $\gamma =\alpha (\tau /\tau \_{\text{B}})^{n}$. The upper bound to the tensile reference stress $\overline{\sigma}\_{0}$ is shown to have the simple form $\overline{\sigma}\_{0}\leq A(n)\tau \_{\text{A}}+B(n)\tau \_{\text{B}};A(n)$ and $B(n)$ are computed for the entire range of $n$, including the limit $n=\infty $. Self-consistent predictions are again in good agreement with the bounds for high $n$. Upper bounds in pure shear are also calculated for both f.c.c. and ionic polycrystals. These results, together with those for tension, provide a basis for assessing the most commonly used stress creep potentials. The simplest potential based on the single effective stress invariant is found to give a reasonably accurate characterization of multiaxial stress dependence.
Temperature Modification of Flight and Response to Pheromones in Rhyacionia frustrana

Males of the Nantucket pine tip moth, Rhyacionia frustrana , flew significantly earlier on cool than on warm nights in response to traps baited with either crude pheromone extract or live females. Moths were unable to sustain flight below 10°C. Initiation of flight appeared to be unrelated to light intensity. The early flight on cool nights increases the probability that sufficient numbers of the moths emerging from overwintering pupae will successfully mate and maintain R. frustrana populations.
Effect of occlusion and landmarks on single object tracking during disrupted viewing

(blue) and motion path of tracked object (red). This participants uses discrete eye-movements to accurately track the square up until sound probe (orange) when eyes stabilize on same position until tap response is made (about 1 second later). This sustained gaze-response may serve as a “place-holder” to help keep track of the position of the tracked object. Effect of Occlusion and Landmarks on Single Object Tracking During Disrupted Viewing Meriam Naqvi1 ,2, Kevin Zish1, Ronald Planer1,3, Deborah Aks1, Zenon W. Pylyshyn1 Rutgers Center for Cognitive Science1, Rutgers Department of Biological Sciences2, Rutgers Department of Philosophy3
Measurement of the relative delay between signals propagating in a multipath environment

The problem of measuring the relative delay from a composite signal in additive noise is considered. The performance of standard autocovariance, nonlinear spectral analysis (cepstrum), and the delay-locked loop is analyzed and compared to the results of maximum a posteriori estimation. Comparison is based on: ability to detect a multipath situation, accuracy of the delay measurement, and resolution. Under conditions typically encountered in practice, cepstrum is shown to provide near optimum estimates. The relative ability of cepstrum and standard autocovariance to extract delay measurements is demonstrated by the results of an underwater experiment performed under conditions where the acoustic signal propagates along a direct and reflected path.
Phospholipid surfactant adsorption by respirable quartz and in vitro expression of cytotoxicity and DNA damage

Respirable-sized quartz was treated with a saline dispersion of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), a primary component of pulmonary surfactant, to model the adsorption of phospholipid surfactant onto quartz dust following particle deposition in the bronchoalveolar region of the lung. Control and surfactant-treated dusts were used to challenge lavaged rat pulmonary macrophages in vitro over a 1-week period, to determine the effects of adsorbed surfactant on the expression of quartz cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. DNA damage was determined by the single cell gel electrophoresis 'comet' assay. Untreated quartz induced DNA damage, increasing with dose and with time of incubation of dust with macrophages over a 5 day period. DPPC treatment of quartz suppressed DNA damage through 1 day of macrophage challenge. DNA damage then increased over a 5 day period, to approximately half the positive control (untreated quartz) values. Cytotoxicity was measured by trypan blue dye exclusion and by the Live-Dead fluorescence assay for cell viability. Cytotoxicity of surfactant-treated quartz measured one day after challenge of lavaged macrophages was suppressed to values near those of the negative controls, and then increased over a 1 week incubation period to levels near those expressed by native quartz positive controls. Quartz similarly treated with dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine mixed with DPPC substituted in one acyl group with a boron-containing fluorescent chromophore was used with confocal microscopy to measure particle-associated fluorescent surfactant in cells. Approximately half of the fluorescence intensity was lost over a 1 week period following challenge of lavaged macrophage. Results are discussed in terms of a model of restoration of quartz particle surface toxicity as prophylactic surfactant is removed from particle surface by cellular enzymatic digestion processes.
“Dad look, she's sleeping”: Parent–Child Conversations about Human Remains

ABSTRACT Research on parent–child learning in museums has shown that parents often use conversation to facilitate their children's exploration of exhibits. This observational study investigated whether the patterns of talk found in science and history exhibits are used during parent–child conversations about challenging content such as death and dying and forensics. This research was conducted at a traveling exhibit, Mysterious Bog People, which was on display at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Thirty-four families were observed as they interacted with and explored the exhibit. Parent comfort with the content of the exhibit was found to have an impact on the conversations they had with their children and their enjoyment of the exhibit overall. Implications for museum mediation are discussed.