cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of computer versus manual determination of pulmonary nodule volumes in CT scans

Accurate nodule volume estimation is necessary in order to estimate the clinically relevant growth rate or change in size over time. An automated nodule volume-measuring algorithm was applied to a set of pulmonary nodules that were documented by the Lung Image Database Consortium (LIDC). The LIDC process model specifies that each scan is assessed by four experienced thoracic radiologists and that boundaries are to be marked around the visible extent of the nodules for nodules 3 mm and larger. Nodules were selected from the LIDC database with the following inclusion criteria: (a) they must have a solid component on a minimum of three CT image slices and (b) they must be marked by all four LIDC radiologists. A total of 113 nodules met the selection criterion with diameters ranging from 3.59 mm to 32.68 mm (mean 9.37 mm, median 7.67 mm). The centroid of each marked nodule was used as the seed point for the automated algorithm. 95 nodules (84.1%) were correctly segmented, but one was considered not meeting the first selection criterion by the automated method; for the remaining ones, eight (7.1%) were structurally too complex or extensively attached and 10 (8.8%) were considered not properly segmented after a simple visual inspection by a radiologist. Since the LIDC specifications, as aforementioned, instruct radiologists to include both solid and sub-solid parts, the automated method core capability of segmenting solid tissues was augmented to take into account also the nodule sub-solid parts. We ranked the distances of the automated method estimates and the radiologist-based estimates from the median of the radiologist-based values. The automated method was in 76.6% of the cases closer to the median than at least one of the values derived from the manual markings, which is a sign of a very good agreement with the radiologists' markings.
Catalyst dilution to improve dynamic controllability of cooled tubular reactors

Abstract The dynamics of cooled tubular reactors are strongly affected by the overall heat-transfer coefficient U , which depends primarily on the velocity through the tubes. Higher velocities produce larger U 's but increase pressure drops. Design involves trade-offs among tube diameter, tube length and number of tubes to achieve a specified pressure drop and per-pass conversion. This paper points out that another design optimization variable is available to improve the dynamic stability of cooled tubular reactors. If the catalyst activity is high, the size of the required reactor is small, which implies small heat-transfer area, and the reactor can be uncontrollable. If the catalyst is diluted with an inert solid, a bigger reactor will be required that will have more heat-transfer area and provide improved dynamic stability. This catalyst dilution strategy is explored for two reaction systems: a hypothetical chemical process and the carbonylation of dimethyl ether to produce methyl acetate.
Choline kinase kinetic studies: Dual role of mg2+ in the sequential ordered mechanism at low reactant concentrations. regulatory implications

Abstract The kinetics of the forward reaction catalyzed by choline kinase from rat liver was studied at pH 8.0. The enzyme follows 2 alternative mechanisms according to the concentrations of reactants. Studies at low ligand concentrations are consistent with a sequential order mechanism with the reactants adding in the order: choline, MgATP −2 and Mg 2+ ∗ The apparent and true values of the corresponding kinetic parameters are reported. The possible implications of the dual role of Mg 2+ on the regulation of the activity of this enzyme are discussed.
The Earnings of Tied-Migrant Military Husbands:

Identifying the earnings penalty associated with being a tied mover has focused on the working wives of servicemen. However, the number of women serving in the armed forces now makes it feasible to...
Impacts of ventilation strategies on energy consumption and indoor air quality in single-family residences

Abstract This report compares the impacts of five different ventilation strategies on the overall energy consumption of superinsulated houses in the Northwestern United States. The strategies examined are: (1) natural ventilation, (2) balanced ventilation with an air-to-air heat exchanger, (3) exhaust ventilation without heat recovery, (4) exhaust ventilation connected to a heat pump to provide space heating, and (5) exhaust ventilation connected to a heat pump to heat domestic water. A modified Transient System Simulation (TRNSYS) residential load model incorporating the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory (LBL) infiltration model, and a modified TRNSYS domestic hot water model, are used to simulate the energy consumption associated with each strategy. The domestic hot water model is used to determine the amount of useful heat supplied by an exhaust ventilation heat pump as a function of hot water demand schedule and storage tank size. The simulations are made for cities with: (1) a moderate coastal climate, (2) a windy cold climate, and (3) a calm cold climate. They show that total energy consumption (space heat + domestic hot water) can be reduced by 9 to 21% by using mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery. These savings, compared with energy savings of 18 to 21% achieved by superinsulating the same houses, indicate that the choice of ventilation strategy can have a significant effect on energy consumption. The comparisons also show that for the same effective ventilation rate, houses with mechanical ventilation systems (especially those with exhaust fans) have uniform ventilation and therefore better indoor air quality.
Fluids near surfaces and in pores and membrane channels

The theory of fluids near surfaces and in pores is reviewed and some simulations of electrolytes with a continuum solvent near an electrode that agree qualitatively with experiment but that are inexplicable by current theories are outlined. Recent work with more realistic solvents and membranes is discussed.
Research on ASIC Firewall Based on State Detection Technology

Being important in the field of network security, it is essential to study the firewall technology that has been an indispensable part of computer networks. This paper describes a new design and implementation of ASIC firewall architecture based on the state detection technology. Implementation and measurements in a real network show that the proposed system can provide high performance with reliability, flexibility, and security.
Golimumab for the treatment of refractory juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)-associated uveitis is a potentially blinding disease and accounts for up to 75 % of all pediatric anterior uveitis cases in many tertiary care referral centers [1]. Inability to control ocular inflammation in pediatric uveitis can lead to complications such as cataracts, macular edema, band keratopathy, and glaucoma leading to vision loss [1]. Off-label use of biologic response modifiers such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) inhibitors, including infliximab, adalimumab, and etanercept, have expanded the treatment armamentarium for refractory JIA-associated uveitis. A cross-sectional survey by Foeldvari et al. demonstrated that TNF inhibitors were effective in two thirds of patients with JIA-associated uveitis who did not respond to conventional immunosuppressive agents [2]. Golimumab (GLM) is a novel fully humanized anti-TNFα monoclonal antibody that has been approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis [3]. We present three cases of refractory JIA-associated uveitis treated with GLM. Institutional review board approval for this case series was waived by the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Human Studies Committee.
Evaluation of aluminum mole fraction for controlled thermal behavior of AlGaAs/GaAs HBT

The thermal behavior of AlGaAs/GaAs HBT was analyzed. The thermal stability improves with increasing Al mole fraction. The turn-on voltage of the device increases as the mole fraction which results in less power dissipation and hence better thermal stability. Two dimensional analysis shows much reduced temperatures compared to 1D since it accommodates the lateral dissipation of heat. Multi-emitter finger heterojunction transistor exhibits non-uniform temperature distribution across the device. To reduce the peak temperatures, device layouts with narrower emitters and/or wider spacing between the emitters are used.
Prolactin (PRL) Response to Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) in Children with 18q- Syndrome † 432

Prolactin (PRL) Response to Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) in Children with 18q- Syndrome † 432
Mitigating primary user emulation attacks in dynamic spectrum access networks using hypothesis testing

We present a Neyman-Pearson composite hypothesis test (NPCHT) and a Wald's sequential probability ratio test (WSPRT) to detect primary user emulation attacks (PUEA) in cognitive radio networks. Most approaches in the literature on PUEA assume the presence of underlying sensor networks for localization of the malicious nodes. There are no analytical studies available in the literature to study PUEA in the presence of multiple malicious users in fading wireless environments. We present an NPCHT and WSPRT based analysis to detect PUEA in fading wireless channels in the presence of multiple randomly located malicious users. We show that there is a range of network radii in which PUEA are most successful. Results also show that for the same desired threshold on the probability of missing the primary, WSPRT can achieve a probability of successful PUEA 50% less than that obtained by NPCHT.
Prenatal cocaine exposure produces gender-specific motor effects in aged rats

This investigation employed a longitudinal analysis of a complex motor skill in rats that were exposed prenatally to cocaine. Offspring were derived from four maternal treatment groups: 50 mg/kg cocaine, their pair-fed controls, 25 mg/kg cocaine, and freely fed controls. Cocaine was administered via gavage from gestation day 6-20. A maternal fostering procedure was used. Pairs of male and female littermates began training when 9, 13, or 19 months old. The behavioral procedure involved fixed-ratio (FR) lever pressing to obtain brief periods of wheel running. The oldest males from the 50 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg, and pair-fed groups performed significantly fewer wheel revolutions per opportunity than females or freely fed males. In general, animals earned fewer opportunities to run as the FR requirement was increased over sessions. However, within each age-by-gender group, subjects from the four treatment groups performed equivalent amounts of lever pressing. The specific effect on the motor aspect of the procedure may have resulted from a reduction of motor coordination, balance, or strength, or a diminished capacity of wheel running to serve as a reinforcing stimulus in a cocaine-sensitive subgroup.
Implicating adhesion molecules in nasal allergic inflammation.

Allergic rhinitis is now considered an inflammatory disorder where many leukocyte types, including eosinophils and T-lymphocytes, accumulate in increased numbers. Along with mast cells and other cells, they release a wide variety of mediators, cytokines, and granule constituents that can directly cause inflammation or activate the local vascular endothelium to futher enhance the recruitment of leukocytes through the expression and function of adhesion molecules. While the understanding of the importance of leukocyte and endothelial adhesion molecules is still at a very early stage, recent evidence has already begun to implicate these cell surface molecules in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases such as rhinitis and asthma. Additional studies, including the use of adhesion molecule antagonists when available, will clarify the importance of these structures in the pathophysiology of these disorders.
Preparation and properties of active, insoluble alkaline phosphatase.

Abstract 1. One of the problems encountered in the sequential chemical degradation of nucleic acids is asynchrony arising from contamination by alkaline phosphatase during the oxidative elimination step. The residual enzyme activity persists because of its incomplete removal from the RNA during the preceding dephosphorylation step. If the enzyme can be converted into an insoluble active form, this problem can be avoided. 2. The coupling of alkaline phosphatase to several water-insoluble polymers has been studied. The polymers tested as support materials include: ethylene-maleic anhydride copolymers; polymethylvinyl-maleic acid anhydride copolymer; carboxymethylcellulose azide; linear and cross-linked polymers of methacrylic acid and methacrylic acid fluorodinitroanilide. 3. Preparations of the enzyme attached to all of the polymers except carboxymethylcellulose azide were fully active toward the synthetic substrate, p -nitrophenyl phosphate, and the four common nucleoside monophosphates (including 2′, 3′, and 5′ nucleotides). The activity toward nucleic acids is dependent upon the conditions of coupling.
Potentiation of yohimbine-induced lethality in mice: Predictor of antidepressant potential

The ability of antidepressant agents to potentiate the lethal or toxic effects of yohimbine in mice was evaluated. With very few exceptions, the antidepressants were the only agents that significantly enhanced yohimbine-induced lethality. All of the clinically effective antidepressants, both typical (e.g., amine reuptake inhibitors, monoamine oxidase inhibitors) and atypical (e.g., mianserin, iprindole, bupropion, quipazine) drugs, produced a dose-related potentiation of yohimbine in mice. Representative anxiolytics and antipsychotics failed to potentiate yohimbine over a wide range of doses. Although several possible “false positives” (e.g., atropine, chlorpheniramine, and d-amphetamine) would be detected in this procedure, these same agents would be detected in other models (e.g., tetrabenazine antagonism, behavioral despair) considered predictive of antidepressant potential. Thus, the potentiation of yohimbine-induced lethality test in mice appears to represent a useful screening procedure for discovering potential antidepressant drugs.
What is wrong with space system cost models? A survey and assessment of cost estimating approaches

Abstract Despite several decades of research and refinement in cost estimating tools and practices, the final cost of US space programs continues to exceed initial cost estimates by an average of more than 45%. Thus, program cost models not only exhibit error, they are seriously biased. A structured review surveyed techniques, approaches, models and conceptual tools related to space program cost estimating, to understand cost in complex space systems. Analysis shows problems of cost estimating result from the growing complexity of space programs, failures in managing growth, and mission failures. Although there is greater expectation for the models to accurately predict program costs, the current models used for seeking funding for large space programs are inadequate due to (1) inability to predict future, (2) lack of insight, and (3) process replaces judgment in decision making.
Finite element modeling of photoplastic processes: Upset forging of rings

Abstract Critical numerical (finite-element) solutions for the upset forging of photoplastic rings were obtained to assess the validity of photoplasticity and the effect of hydrostatic pressure in yielding. When compared with experiments, qualitative and quantitative results from numerical solutions—in the distributions of three-dimensional (unloaded) strain components, isochromatic fringes and deformed profiles—supported the notion that photoplasticity is a feasible and accurate method.
PDF simulation of a turbulent series-parallel reaction in an axisymmetric reactor

Abstract Because both the turbulent mixing and chemical reaction terms are modeled in the traditional moment approach, it is very difficult to isolate the effect of turbulent mixing on chemical reactions. In contrast, these two terms appear in closed form in the joint velocity—composition probability density function (PDF) formulation. A joint velocity—composition PDF code was to study the effect of the scalar mixing rate on a series—parallel reaction (A + B → R, R + B → S) in a single-jet tubular reactor and the results are compared with experimental data. The turbulent flow field was obtained from thek-ɛ model and the chemical reaction terms were efficiently dealt with using a look-up table. Using PDF simulations, the effects of different scalar mixing rate models on the chemical reaction were investigated under different flow conditions. Since the first reaction step is highly sensitive to the scalar mixing rate, by comparing the yield of the desired product (R) from simulations with the experimental data, the best scalar mixing rate model is determined.
Use of the Contralateral Subclavian Vein for Placement of Atrial Electrodes in Chronically VVI Paced Patients

Two patients with documented pacemaker syndrome were referred for AV sequential pacing and were found to have inaccessible venous systems on the side of their original transvenous pacemaker placement. The contralateral subclavian vein was subsequently catheterized with an atrial electrode using the sheath-set technique. Then the proximal aspect of the atrial endocardial lead was tunneled to the original pacemaker pocket. Once accomplished, both (atrial and ventricular) leads were connected to an AV sequential pulse generator. The united pulse generator and lead were reinserted in the original pacemaker pocket.
Hemostatic effect of endoscopic local injection with hypertonic saline-epinephrine solution and pure ethanol for digestive tract bleeding

An uncontrolled study for the assessment of the hemostatic effects of endoscopically injected hypertonic saline-epinephrine (HS-E) solution and pure ethanol (PE) was carried out in 67 patients with nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding. The HS-E group included duodenal ulcer (18), gastric ulcer (9), gastric cancer (2), polyp (2), marginal ulcer (1), and esophageal cancer (1). Bleeding was active in 15 (pulsating, 3; oozing, 12). The hemostatic effect was permanent in 29 cases (87.9%) but failed in four cases (12.1%). The PE group consisted of 34 patients with duodenal ulcer (25), gastric ulcer (4), polyp (2), marginal ulcer (2), and gastric cancer (1). There was active bleeding in 14 (pulsating, 3; oozing, 11). The hemostatic effect was permanent in 31 cases (91.2%), temporary in 1 case (2.9%), and failed in 2 cases (5.9%). We conclude that endoscopic local injection with HS-E or PE is a simple maneuver with reasonable cost, high safety, and satisfactory hemostatic efficacy in the treatment of nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding.
Mechanical Stretch Induces Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Alveolar Epithelia via Hyaluronan Activation of Innate Immunity

Epithelial injury is a central event in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory and fibrotic lung diseases like acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, and iatrogenic lung injury. Mechanical stress is an often underappreciated contributor to lung epithelial injury. Following injury, differentiated epithelia can assume a myofibroblast phenotype in a process termed epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), which contributes to aberrant wound healing and fibrosis. We demonstrate that cyclic mechanical stretch induces EMT in alveolar type II epithelial cells, associated with increased expression of low molecular mass hyaluronan (sHA). We show that sHA is sufficient for induction of EMT in statically cultured alveolar type II epithelial cells and necessary for EMT during cell stretch. Furthermore, stretch-induced EMT requires the innate immune adaptor molecule MyD88. We examined the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which is known to mediate EMT. The Wnt target gene Wnt-inducible signaling protein 1 (wisp-1) is significantly up-regulated in stretched cells in hyaluronan- and MyD88-dependent fashion, and blockade of WISP-1 prevents EMT in stretched cells. In conclusion, we show for the first time that innate immunity transduces mechanical stress responses through the matrix component hyaluronan, and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Anisotropic interface kinetics and tilted cells in unidirectional solidification

A nonlinear evolution equation is derived which governs the cellular structure of a binary alloy with a small segregation coefficient, including the effects of anisotropic interface kinetics. This equation, applicable to long-wave instabilities of a planar interface, describes the spatial pattern of the growing disturbances. The presence of anisotropy causes the cells to grow at an angle to the normal of the planar front. This transition to a cellular morphology is shown to be a subcritical instability.
Destruction of Mammalian Motor Nerve Terminals by Black Widow Spider Venom

Black widow spider venom selectively poisons motor nerve endings. A progressive and irreversible failure of neuromuscular transmission occurs in the cat. Electron microscopy of the poisoned nerve-muscle junction shows a sequence of motor nerve ending damage that culminates in disruption of the prejunctional membrane and loss of all organelles, including synaptic vesicles. The postjunctional membrane was morphologically unaffected. After complete poisoning, the contractile response to exogenous acetylcholine was severely impaired, an indication that the prejunctional site is chiefly involved in the contractile response produced by exogenous acetylcholine and that the pre- and postjunctional effects of acetylcholine were separated.
Flow for Exercise Adherence: Testing an Intrinsic Model of Health Behavior

Background: Health behavior theory generally does not include intrinsic motivation as a determinate of health practices. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to test the flow theory of exercise a...
Future of geriatric oncology

Approximately 50% of cancers occur in patients aged 70 years and older in developed countries and, as the population ages, this proportion will increase. As older patients have a very variable health status, the need for proper integration of an oncologic and a geriatric approach has become increasingly clear. The last two decades have seen the development of geriatric oncology programs and research, which are reviewed here. An increasing amount of data support the view that a geriatric assessment identifies many problems in older people with cancer, adds prognostic information and may improve the prognosis of these patients. The near future will probably deliver the following: operationalization of geriatric assessment into assessment and decision tools, as well as multidisciplinary interventions in oncology; cooperation of aging and cancer research in the understanding of cancer biology, aging physiology and pharmacology of anticancer drugs; improved clinical study designs; development of geriatric onco...
Copulas and Other Multivariate Models of Personal Exposures to VOC Mixtures

ABSTRACT While exposures to most pollutants occur in mixtures with other pollutants, joint distributions of pollutants have not been characterized, even for pollutants that frequently occur together. This study investigates exposures to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and presents and evaluates innovative ways of modeling mixtures. Personal exposures to ten VOCs for 655 individuals were evaluated using a semi-parametric framework that estimates probabilities of mixtures containing components greater than specified levels. Common mixtures were identified using positive matrix factorization. Copulas were tested for their ability to model inter-pollutant dependencies, focusing on the most exposed individuals. For highly correlated VOCs, Gumbel and Gaussian copulas best described the joint probability. For VOCs with low correlations, distributions could be described by the product copula, among other approaches. High concentration mixtures usually resulted from strong sources (e.g., residence with attached...
The High and Low of Visual Awareness

What specific network of neural activity mediates awareness? In this issue of Neuron, Wilke et al. report psychophysical results showing that perturbations of early topographic visual areas can lead to all-or-none image disappearance, demonstrating the importance and versatility of low-level visual processing in controlling visual awareness.
Individual pathogens, pathogen burden, and markers of subclinical atherosclerosis: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

MethodsWe examined the cross-sectional relationships of subclinical atherosclerosis – expressed by carotid intimal–medial thickness and coronary calcification – with antibodies to Chlamydia pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, hepatitis A virus, and pathogen burden
Identification of functional exonic splicing enhancer motifs recognized by individual SR proteins

Using an in vitro randomization and functional selection procedure, we have identified three novel classes of exonic splicing enhancers (ESEs) recognized by human SF2/ASF, SRp40, and SRp55, respectively. These ESEs are functional in splicing and are highly specific. For SF2/ASF and SRp55, in most cases, only the cognate SR protein can efficiently recognize an ESE and activate splicing. In contrast, the SRp40-selected ESEs can function with either SRp40 or SRp55, but not with SF2/ASF. UV cross-linking/competition and immunoprecipitation experiments showed that SR proteins recognize their cognate ESEs in nuclear extract by direct and specific binding. A motif search algorithm was used to derive consensus sequences for ESEs recognized by these SR proteins. Each SR protein yielded a distinct 5- to 7-nucleotide degenerate consensus. These three consensus sequences occur at higher frequencies in exons than in introns and may thus help define exon–intron boundaries. They occur in clusters within regions corresponding to naturally occurring, mapped ESEs. We conclude that a remarkably diverse set of sequences can function as ESEs. The degeneracy of these motifs is consistent with the fact that exonic enhancers evolved within extremely diverse protein coding sequences and are recognized by a small number of SR proteins that bind RNA with limited sequence specificity.
Changing economics and clinical ethical decision-making: a view from the trenches.

There is good news, and there is bad news. The good news is that in my experience, younger physicians generally are much more concerned about the cost of clinical tests and treatments, and about justly distributing finite medical resources, than were those who practiced medicine in the fee-for-service era. The bad news has at least three components. First, with respect to medically nonbeneficial treatment in the ICU, managed care has not yet given evidence of wanting to put the brakes on unrealistic family demands for aggressive medical interventions. Second, managed care is frustrating many healthcare professionals as well as patients. And third, managed care has no apparent interest in addressing, and may even have contributed to, the problem of medical indigence. Let me develop these propositions more fully.
Planar fluorescence imaging of a transverse jet in a supersonic crossflow

Planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) imaging has been used to examine the mixing and combustion of a sonic jet of gas injected transversely into a supersonic freestream flowing within a shock tube. Single-shot and frame-averaged fluorescence images have been acquired for nonreacting and reacting flows in side-view and end-view orientations. In the nonreacting experiments, nitric oxide seeded within the jet fluid was used to examine the penetration and mixing of the jet with the freestream, without the influence of chemical reaction and heat release. In the reacting experiments, the hydroxyl radical (OH), formed by the combustion of a hydrogen jet injected into an oxidizing freestream, was used to locate the reaction zones. The OH images indicate that combustion takes place primarily in the shear layer formed by the jet and the freestream, and in the boundary layer adjacent to the wall. For both the nonreacting and reacting results, the single-shot images show the presence of large-scale turbulent structures not apparent in the frame-averaged images. These results demonstrate the importance of examining and understanding the instantaneous flowfield, because it is the instantaneous, rather than mean state, of the flow that ultimately determines the extent to combustion.
A Comparison of the Acute Behavioral Effects of Inhaled Amyl, Ethyl, and Butyl Acetate in Mice

The acute neurobehavioral effects of three acetates (amyl, ethyl, and n-butyl acetate) were investigated after 20-min inhalation exposures in mice using locomotor activity and a functional observational battery (FOB). Ethyl and n-butyl acetate produced significant decreases in locomotor activity at the highest concentrations examined, while amyl acetate was without effect. Minimally effective concentrations for activity-decreasing effects were 2000 ppm for ethyl acetate and 8000 ppm for n-butyl acetate. The potency order was similar in the FOB where ethyl acetate was more potent in disrupting the neurobehavioral measures. The FOB profile of effects for all three acetates included changes in posture, decreased arousal, increased tonic/clonic movements, disturbances in gait, delayed righting reflexes, and increased sensorimotor reactivity. Furthermore, handling-induced convulsions were produced in some mice acutely exposed to each of these acetates. Recovery from the acute effects of these acetates was rapid and began within minutes of removal from the exposure chamber. The acetates produced a profile of neurobehavioral effects that were different from those reported for depressant solvents (i.e., toluene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane) that are subject to abuse. Evidence is emerging for qualitative differences in the acute neurobehavioral effects of various volatile chemicals.
Ultra high frequency (UHF) phononic crystal devices operating in mobile communication bands

Recently phononic crystal slabs operating in the very high frequency (VHF) range have been reported and have gained interest for RF signal processing. This paper reports phononic crystal slabs and devices operating in the commonly used GSM-850 and GSM-900 cellular phone bands, representing nearly an order of magnitude increase in operating frequency compared to the state-of-the-art. Phononic crystals centered at 943 MHz are formed by arranging 1.4 µm diameter W rods in a square lattice with a pitch of 2.5 µm inside a 1.85 µm thick suspended SiO 2 membrane. The resulting phononic crystal has a bandgap width of 416 MHz or 44% and a maximum bandgap depth of 35 dB. Waveguide devices formed by placing defects in the phononic lattice have also been realized with propagation frequencies of 780 and 1060 MHz.
Toward an Explication of the Legitimation Process

This is part of a larger attempt to move toward an integrated, multilevel theory of the process through which stratified social orders are legitimated. Using selfevaluation teory as a starting point, this paper develops modifications of the theory with respect to those aspects of the legitimation process involving face-toface interaction and self-formation. These modifications entail: (1) redefinition of the concept of self-evaluation in such a way that it cannot be confused with such general concepts as self-esteem or self-efficacy; (2) explanation of why self-evaluation is grounded within a framework of equity norms, rather than some other normative foundation; and (3) explication of the concept of hegemony, showing how it articulates with self-evaluation theory in the form of subprocesses. The revised explication of the theory is summarized and the implications for the possibility of delegitimation are discussed. Patterned and relatively stable inequalities of wealth and power have prevailed in virtually all societies in which the state has existed (Lenski 1966). Even though these inequalities have been backed ultimately by the threat of violence, rulers have taken great pains to insure that the populace accepts them as legitimate (Bendix 1978; Habermas 1973; Lenski 1966; Mosca 1939; Weber 1946; Wolfe 1977). Thus, any theory that hopes to account for the reproduction of stratified social orders must include a subtheory of legitimation. One of the most challenging things any such theory must do is to tell us why even the disadvantaged members of societies tend to see major forms of inequality as legitimate. The results of many empirical studies using a broad range of research methods have shown truly widespread legitimation of stratification (Feagin 1972; Hochschild 1981; Huber and *1 thank Risa Ellovich, Jeffrey Leiter, Michael Schulman, and Donald Tomaskovic-Devey for their valuable comments on earlier versions of this paper. Address correspondence to the author, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Box 8107, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8107. C)i 19 ORAhe I Tiinivrctv4t of XaT^vh ar!2-%;n ia IPress
The effects of N-Acetylcysteine on frontostriatal resting-state functional connectivity, withdrawal symptoms and smoking abstinence: A double-blind, placebo-controlled fMRI pilot study.

Abstract Background Chronic exposure to drugs of abuse disrupts frontostriatal glutamate transmission, which in turn meditates drug seeking. In animal models, N -Acetylcysteine normalizes dysregulated frontostriatal glutamatergic neurotransmission and prevents reinstated drug seeking; however, the effects of N -Acetylcysteine on human frontostriatal circuitry function and maintaining smoking abstinence is unknown. Thus, the current study tested the hypothesis that N -Acetylcysteine would be associated with stronger frontostriatal resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC), attenuated nicotine withdrawal and would help smokers to maintain abstinence over the study period. Methods The present study examined the effects of N -Acetylcysteine on frontostriatal rsFC, nicotine-withdrawal symptoms and maintaining abstinence. Healthy adult, non-treatment seeking smokers ( N = 16; mean (SD) age 36.5 ± 11.9; cigs/day 15.8 ± 6.1; years/smoking 15.7 ± 8.9) were randomized to a double-blind course of 2400 mg N -Acetylcysteine (1200 mg b.i.d.) or placebo over the course of 3½ days of monetary-incentivized smoking abstinence. On each abstinent day, measures of mood and craving were collected and participants attended a lab visit in order to assess smoking (i.e., expired-air carbon monoxide [CO]). On day 4, participants underwent fMRI scanning. Results As compared to placebo ( n = 8), smokers in the N -Acetylcysteine group ( n = 8) maintained abstinence, reported less craving and higher positive affect (all p 's p Conclusions Taken together, these findings suggest that N -Acetylcysteine may positively affect dysregulated corticostriatal connectivity, help to restructure reward processing, and help to maintain abstinence immediately following a quit attempt.
Labor market productivity costs for caregivers of children with spina bifida: a population-based analysis.

Background. Caregiver productivity costs are an important component of the overall cost of care for individuals with birth defects and developmental disabilities, yet few studies provide estimates for use in economic evaluations. Objective.This study estimates labor market productivity costs for caregivers of children and adolescents with spina bifida. Methods.Case families were recruited from a state birth defects registry in Arkansas. Primary caregivers of children with spina bifida (N = 98) reported their employment status in the past year and demographic characteristics. Controls were abstracted from the Current Population Survey covering the state of Arkansas for the same time period (N = 416). Estimates from regression analyses of labor market outcomes were used to calculate differences in hours worked per week and lifetime costs.Results.Caregivers of children with spina bifida worked an annual average of 7.5 to 11.3 hours less per week depending on the disability severity. Differences in work hours...
Decoration of multi-walled carbon nanotubes by polymer wrapping and its application in MWCNT/polyethylene composites

We dispersed the non-covalent functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with a polymer dispersant and obtained a powder of polymer-wrapped CNTs. The UV–vis absorption spectrum was used to investigate the optimal weight ratio of the CNTs and polymer dispersant. The powder of polymer-wrapped CNTs had improved the drawbacks of CNTs of being lightweight and difficult to process, and it can re-disperse in a solvent. Then, we blended the polymer-wrapped CNTs and polyethylene (PE) by melt-mixing and produced a conductive masterbatch and CNT/PE composites. The polymer-wrapped CNTs showed lower surface resistivity in composites than the raw CNTs. The scanning electron microscopy images also showed that the polymer-wrapped CNTs can disperse well in composites than the raw CNTs.
Testable design for advanced serial-link transceivers

This paper describes a DfT solution for modern serial-link transceivers. We first summarize the architectures of the Crosstalk Canceller and the Equalizer used in advanced transceivers to which the proposed solution can be applied. The solution addresses the testability and observability issues of the transceiver for both characterization and production testing. Without using sophisticated testing instrument setting, the proposed solution could test the clock and data recovery circuit and characterize the decision-feedback equalizer in the receiver. Our experiments demonstrate that the proposed method has significant higher fault coverage and lower hardware requirement than the conventional approach of probing the eye-opening of the signals inside the transceiver.
State-space representation of a hydraulic wind power transfer

Gearless hydraulic wind power transfers are considered noble candidates for wind energy harvesting. In this method, high-pressure hydraulics is utilized to collect the energy of multiple wind turbines and transfer it to a central generation unit. This paper introduces a state space representation of a central hydraulic wind energy generation unit. The state space model is derived from the dynamic equations of the hydraulic circuitry. The model is verified with simulation results from SimHydraulics toolbox of MATLAB. The results of state space model were in good agreement with the Matlab toolbox.
Sodium Bisulfite Protects Against Radiogenic and Chemically Induced Transformation in Hamster Embryo and Mouse C3H/10T-1/2 Cells:

Pretreatment of hamster embryo cells or mouse C3H/10T-1/2 cells with sodium bisulfite (0.5, 2.5, 5.0 and 100 ppm) inhibits the oncogenic transformation of the cells following their exposure to x-rays or benzo(a)pyrene. The results suggest that low doses of bisulfite, a widely used food additive, can serve as a radioprotective and chemopreventive agent with anticarcinogenic potential.
An on-die CMOS leakage current sensor for measuring process variation in sub-90nm generations

This paper describes an on-die leakage current sensor in 1.2V, 90nm dual-V/sub t/ CMOS technology for accurately measuring process variation. Results based on measured leakage data show higher signal-to-noise ratio and reduced sensitivity to supply and P/N skew variations compared to prior designs.
Long-term results of living donor liver transplantation for glycogen storage disorders in children

Liver transplantation (LT) may be indicated in glycogen storage disorders (GSD) when medical treatment fails to control the metabolic problems or when hepatic adenomas develop. We present our institutional experience with living donor LT (LDLT) for children with GSD. A total of 244 patients underwent primary LDLT at our institution from June 1994 to December 2005. A total of 12 (5%) children (8 female and 4 male) were afflicted with GSD and were not responsive to medical treatment. Nine patients had GSD type I and 3 had GSD type III. The median age at the time of transplantation was 7.27 yr (range, 2.4-15.7). All patients presented with metabolic abnormalities, including hypoglycemia, and lactic acidosis. In addition, 4 patients presented with growth retardation. A total of 11 patients received left lobe grafts and 1 received a right lobe graft. The mean graft-to-recipient weight ratio was 1.25 (range, 0.89-1.61). Two patients had hepatic vein stenoses that were treated by balloon dilatation; 1 patient had bile leak, which settled spontaneously. The overall surgical morbidity rate was 25%. Three patients had hepatic adenomas in the explanted liver. There was a single mortality at 2 months posttransplantation due to acute pancreatitis and sepsis. The mean follow up was 47.45 months. The metabolic abnormalities were corrected and renal function remained normal. In patients with growth retardation, catch-up growth was achieved posttransplantation. In conclusion, LDLT is a viable option to restore normal metabolic balance in patients with GSD when medical treatment fails. Long-term follow-up after LT for GSD shows excellent graft and patient survival.
Effect of font and medium on recognition/confusion

Systematic differences in recognition/confusion due to font variation is estimated by using confusion matrices of the full 26 capital letters of the English alphabet in 5 × 7 dot matrix font and “Keepsake” conventional stroke font. Average correct recognition was controlled to 50% by limiting brightness and duration of tachistoscopic displays for each font to individually determined levels for each of the four subjects. Each stimulus symbol was presented 45 times to each subject, resulting in 180 trials per letter per font.By comparing the obtained data to that reported by Townsend (1971), Craig (1979) and Gilmore et al.(1979), estimates of the differences in recognition/confusion attributable to medium, font and subject differences were isolated. This comparison reveals a substantial difference in recognition/confusion processes when the observer sees the display on a video screen versus seeing it projected on a white screen.
Functional optical imaging of brain activation: a multi-scale, multi-modality approach

We have developed and applied novel tools for functional optical imaging of the brain. By imaging the brain?s response to stimulus using different modalities, and on different length scales, we can form a more detailed picture of the mechanisms underlying healthy and diseased functional brain activity. One such tool, Laminar Optical Tomography (LOT), is a new technique for 3D, non-contact, high-resolution functional imaging of living tissues. LOT has been used to examine the depth-resolved hemodynamic response to functional activation in exposed rat cortex. LOT has sufficient spatial and temporal resolution to resolve the individual vascular compartments involved in the hemodynamic response (arterial, capillary and venous). To further validate our observations, we also developed a video-rate two-photon microscopy system, capable of imaging at 22 frames per second. We have used this system to create full-field two-photon movies of both the vascular dynamics and calcium-dependent neuronal activity at very high resolution. In addition, we have developed a system for simultaneous exposed-cortex, multi-spectral 2D optical imaging and fMRI at 4.7T. These experiments have allowed us to relate our optical findings to the clinically important BOLD signal.
Predicting Cancer Progression in Patients With Stage T1 Bladder Carcinoma

PURPOSE: A significant number of patients with stage T1 bladder carcinoma are at risk for cancer progression. We sought to identify factors associated with cancer progression in a series of patients with stage T1 bladder carcinoma treated with a contemporary therapeutic approach. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study population consisted of 83 consecutive patients in whom stage T1 bladder carcinoma was diagnosed at the Mayo Clinic between 1987 and 1992. All patients underwent transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) and had histologic confirmation of the diagnosis. The mean age was 71 years (range, 47 to 94 years). The male-to-female ratio was 3.9:1. The mean length of follow-up was 5.2 years (range, 1 day to 10.4 years). The depth of lamina propria invasion in the TURB specimens was measured with an ocular micrometer. Cancer progression was defined as the development of muscle-invasive or more advanced stage carcinoma, distant metastasis, or death from bladder cancer. RESULTS: The overall 5- and 7-year pr...
Getting By on the Blues: Music, Culture, and Community in a Transitional Russia

This study concerns a particular subculture in contemporary Russian society that is based on blues music and its attendant cultural associations. An estimated twenty thousand individuals-performers, promoters, and fans--comprise what is here called the country's blues community.' Because it is informed by an imported idiom, the blues community shares certain general characteristics with most of its counterparts appearing in the late and postCommunist periods. First, and most obvious, would be the fact that these subcultures have been more or less consciously constructed from information reaching the country in the form of printed materials, films, television and radio, recordings, and the reports of those who have traveled abroad. Unlike ethnic or religious groupings into which members are for the most part born, membership in, say, Russia's punk, pagan, Rastafarian, rockabilly, or blues subcultures would admit to a large measure of personal choice. The elements of conscious construction and chosen membership would thus indicate the presence of a sizeable cognitive component in these subcultures and suggest their active, self-conscious inclination toward valorized, but unconventional, social practices that provide the basis for alternative communities.2 The widespread disillusionment and dislocation occasioned by the
A Multi-Year Comparison of IPCI Scores for Prairie Pothole Wetlands: Implications of Temporal and Spatial Variation

In the prairie pothole region of North America, development of Indices of Biotic Integrity (IBIs) to detect anthropogenic impacts on wetlands has been hampered by naturally dynamic inter-annual climate fluctuations. Of multiple efforts to develop IBIs for prairie pothole wetlands, only one, the Index of Plant Community Integrity (IPCI), has reported success. We evaluated the IPCI and its ability to distinguish between natural and anthropogenic variation using plant community data collected from 16 wetlands over a 4-year-period. We found that under constant anthropogenic influence, IPCI metric scores and condition ratings varied annually in response to environmental variation driven primarily by natural climate variation. Artificially forcing wetlands that occur along continuous hydrologic gradients into a limited number of discrete classes (e.g., temporary, seasonal, and semi-permanent) further confounded the utility of IPCI metrics. Because IPCI scores vary significantly due to natural climate dynamics as well as human impacts, methodology must be developed that adequately partitions natural and anthropogenically induced variation along continuous hydrologic gradients. Until such methodology is developed, the use of the IPCI to evaluate prairie pothole wetlands creates potential for misdirected corrective or regulatory actions, impairment of natural wetland functional processes, and erosion of public confidence in the wetland sciences.