cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structure-property relations in an injection-moulded, rubber-toughened, semicrystalline polyoxymethylene

A relationship has been identified between the injection-moulded structure of a rubber-toughened polyoxymethylene (POM), and its mechanical properties. The material used was a commercially available POM (Dupont ST100) which contained 20% to 30% polyurethane rubber within a 50% to 60% crystalline matrix. These percentages were invarient through the thickness. A strong sensitivity towards the development of a core-skin morphology was discovered; microscopy and microhardness techniques revealed the skin depth to be 1200 μm. The skin layer was found to consist of individual sheets, 2 to 4 μm thick, that were stacked parallel to the plaque face. By contrast, the core contained spherulites, of 100 to 300 μm diameter, that surrounded oriented discrete 2 to 4 μm thick rubber rods. Morphological differences between the core and skin were reflected in their respective mechanical properties. Tensile response in the skin was ductile, with elongations reaching 300%, while the core exhibited more brittle behaviour (only 25% elongation). In both regions the yield strength was 45 MPa, a value expectedly reduced from the homopolymer (69 MPa) due to the presence of the rubber phase. Fatigue crack propagation response in the skin of the blend was found to be superior to that of the neat resin; however, the core behaviour was a function of orientation. A combination of inferior FCP response and the noticeable presence of a preferred plane of fracture, highlighted the significant weakness of the core material when loaded in a direction transverse to the injection moulding direction.
Bibliography of relay literature 1950-1952

This bibliography is a continuation of similar bibliographies of relay literature which have been published previously and are contained in the following volumes of the AIEE Transactions: 1927-1939, vol. 60, 1941, 1435-47; 1940-1943, vol. 63, 1944, 705-709; 1944-1946, vol. 67, pt. I, 1948, 24-27; 1947-1949, vol. 70, pt. I, 1951, 247-250. The papers listed include those in the field of relaying, as well as in associated fields, published in this country. Included are articles covering relaying, as well as service restoration, testing, system stability, methods of calculation, instrument transformers and other auxiliary devices, which are available in Science Abstracts, Section B, and in other digesting or indexing periodicals, as well as in the original magazines listed.
Symptom severity and distress in advanced cancer

We determined the relationship between symptom severity and distress for multiple cancer symptoms, and examined patient demographic influences on severity and distress in advanced cancer. A Cochran-Armitage trend test determined whether symptom distress increased with severity. Chi-square, Fisher's exact test and logistic regression analysis examined moderate/severe ('clinically important') and distressful symptoms by age ( 65), gender, primary site group, and ECOG performance status. Forty-six symptoms were analyzed in 181 individuals. More than 50% of individuals with clinically important symptoms rated them as distressful. The median percentage of individuals with mild but still distressful symptoms was 25%, with a range of 0% (bad dreams) to 73% (sore mouth). In both univariate and multivariate analysis, younger (<or=65 years) patients, females, and those with poor performance status had more clinically important and a higher prevalence of distressful symptoms (only anxiety was more frequently distressful to older individuals). Clinically important symptoms and two of those considered distressful varied by primary site group. After control for severity, symptom distress did not differ by primary site group. The prevalence of distress increased with greater symptom severity. Younger individuals, those with poor performance status, and females had greater symptom severity and distress. Mild symptoms were often distressful. After adjustment for severity, age, gender, and performance status all influenced symptom distress.
Hemodynamic status after the Norwood procedure: a comparison of right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery connection versus modified Blalock-Taussig shunt.

Abstract Background The aim of this study is to compare hemodynamic status, in particular systemic oxygen delivery, in patients undergoing a Norwood procedure with a right ventricle–to–pulmonary artery (RV-PA) versus a modified Blalock-Taussig (mBT) shunt. Methods From June 2000 to November 2003, 44 consecutive neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome underwent a Norwood procedure. The first 25 patients received an mBT shunt; the subsequent 19 an RV-PA shunt. Hemodynamic data, including mixed venous oxygen saturation, was determined during the first 48 hours after surgery. Results The mBT and RV-PA shunt patients had no significant differences in systemic oxygen saturation, mixed venous oxygen saturation, arteriovenous oxygen saturation difference, or oxygen excess factor during the first 48 hours. Mixed venous saturation declined to a nadir in both groups at 6 to 12 hours. The RV-PA patients had significantly higher diastolic and mean blood pressures, and lower systolic blood pressure. Mean heart rate, common atrial pressure, and inotrope score did not differ between the two groups. The RV-PA patients received higher fraction of inspired oxygen and minute ventilation to achieve partial pressures of arterial oxygen and carbon dioxide, and pH, similar to mBT patients. Durations of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit stay, and hospital stay did not differ between mBT and RV-PA patients. Operative survival in the mBT versus RV-PA group was 20 of 25 (80%) versus 17 of 19 (89%; p = 0.7). Conclusions Indicators of postoperative systemic oxygen delivery are equivalent in neonates who have undergone a Norwood procedure with an mBT or RV-PA shunt. Both mBT and RV-PA patients undergo similar declines in hemodynamic status 6 to 12 hours after surgery. Any advantages of one approach over the other lie in areas other than systemic oxygen delivery, such as resistance to physiologic insults, or preservation of ventricular function.
Analysis of two-phase impingement from a cryogen vented in orbit

Impingement pressure analysis associated with two phase cryogenic propellant venting to space environment
Pregnant rats show enhanced spatial memory, decreased anxiety, and altered levels of monoaminergic neurotransmitters

Spatial memory, anxiety and central monoaminergic activities were measured in non-pregnant (NP) and pregnant females during two time periods of pregnancy: gestational days 7-9 (GD7, GD9) and gestation days 16-18 (GD16, GD18). Pregnant females discriminated between object locations on both test days on an object placement task, whereas NP females were unable to discriminate between locations. Pregnant females displayed decreased anxiety on the elevated plus maze on GD9 compared to NP females, followed by increased anxiety-like behavior on the elevated plus maze on GD18. Monoamine levels and activity (as indexed by turnover ratio) were measured in prefrontal cortex (PFC), CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus (areas important for memory), and medial preoptic area (mPOA, an area important in display of maternal behaviors). In the PFC, NP females generally had higher monoamine levels and turnover ratios; however, norepinephrine (NE) turnover was higher in pregnant females at GD18. In the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus, monoamine levels and turnover ratios were generally higher during pregnancy, particularly on GD9. In the mPOA, pregnancy was associated with increases in NE activity, a previously unreported finding. The present study expands upon existing research indicating that pregnancy is beneficial to spatial memory and may decrease anxiety. Changes in monoamine levels and activity in specific brain regions indicate that the dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin systems may contribute to the observed behavioral differences.
Differences in Need for Orthodontic Treatment Between Native Americans and the General Population Based on DAI Scores

Clinical impressions by Indian Health Service (IHS) dentists of a greater frequency of severe dental malrelations among Native Americans than in the general US population have never been objectively confirmed. This study uses the DAI as the standard to determine whether there is a greater prevalence of severe malocclusions among Native Americans. Four hundred eighty-five Native American students in grades 7-12 from two remote sites--Pine Ridge, SD, and Many Farms, AZ--and one nonremote site--Lapwai, ID--were scored for the DAI. The mean scores from each reservation, as well as the mean score from the three reservations combined, were significantly higher, indicating poorer aesthetics, than the mean DAI score from a large sample of the general US population. These data confirm the clinical impressions of IHS dentists that Native Americans residing on reservations have significantly poorer dental aesthetics than the aesthetics found in the general US population; therefore, Native Americans have greater needs for orthodontic treatment.
Impact of pump-phase modulation on the performance of dual-pump fiber-optic parametric amplifiers

We show that modulation of pump phases in dual-pump fiber-optic parametric amplifiers produces large signal fluctuations because of fiber dispersion. The performance becomes worse when the phase is modulated using pseudorandom bit patterns with a sharp rise time.
Quantifying Respiratory-induced Prostate Motion using Continuous Real-time Tracking Technology

Prostate positional variability can alter the effectiveness of radiation therapy when precise target location is unknown. Traditionally, PTV margins are designed to compensate for inter-fraction prostate setup variability. PTV margins may be reduced when using daily image-guidance. More recently, the dosimetric relevance of intra-fraction prostate motion has been recognized, and may be compensated for by continuous real-time adaptive radiation therapy afforded by the Calypso® 4D Localization System. As of today, sparse data is available regarding the magnitude and clinical relevance of highfrequency respiratory-induced prostate motion. The specific aim of this analysis was to quantify respiratory-induced prostate motion using electromagnetic continuous real-time tracking technology.
California High School Cosmic Ray Observatory (CHICOS)

The California HIgh school Cosmic ray ObServatory (CHICOS) is a collaborative project involving Caltech, Cal State Northridge, UC Irvine, and local high schools to site a large array of particle detectors in Southern California. The detectors are located on school rooftops, and utilize the power and network infrastructure available at the schools. The main scientific goal is to study cosmic rays at ultra-high energies E>1019 eV. We have fielded a total of 23 sites so far, and are beginning to collect data as we continue to deploy additional sites. We have observed our first evidence of extended air showers in coincidence with a local high school. The anticipated performance of the initial array and the potential for future expansion will be discussed.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Ferulate Cross-Links Limit the Enzymatic Degradation of Synthetically Lignified Primary Walls of Maize

Ferulate cross-linking of arabinoxylans to lignin may restrict the enzymatic degradation of structural polysaccharides, limiting the utilization of graminaceous crops and crop residues as feedstuffs and as feedstocks for fuel and chemical production. Maize walls from nonlignified cell suspensions with ca. 5.1 or 17.6 mg g-1 of ferulates were synthetically lignified with coniferyl alcohol and H2O2 to form dehydrogenation polymer−cell wall complexes with ca. 4.8 or 15.8 mg g-1 of ferulates incorporated into lignin. Ferulate concentrations in cell walls were reduced from normal levels by growing cell suspensions with 2-aminoindan-2-phosphonic acid or by methylating wall ferulates with diazomethane prior to complex formation. A 70% reduction in ferulate−lignin cross-linking increased carbohydrate solubilization by 24−46% after 6 h and by 0−25% after 72 h of hydrolysis with two fungal enzyme mixtures. Reduced cross-linking enhanced the hydrolysis of xylans and, to a lesser degree, cellulose from walls. The res...
Mining and Agriculture in Highland Bolivia: Ecology, History, and Commerce among the Jukumanis

Mining and Agriculture in Highland Bolivia: Ecology, History, and Commerce among the Jukumanis. Richardo A. Godoy. Tucson: University of Arizona Press, 1990. xiv+171 pp.figures, maps, tables, appendices, notes, glossary, bibliography, index. $29.95 (cloth). ISBN 0-8165-1185-3.
Creating Shared Value in the Hybrid Venture Arena: A Business Model Innovation Perspective

Abstract In this paper we develop a strategy process model for hybrid ventures centered on business model innovation for shared value creation. We then validate the framework with an empirical focus on L3Cs, a new breed of hybrid ventures that occupy the middle ground between nonprofits and for-profits. With this research we contribute to business model innovation research, we extend established theoretical perspectives to the social entrepreneurship domain, and contribute to the understanding and diffusion of best practices when the strategic intent is the simultaneous creation of public and private wealth.
Two New Species of Andean Tuberous Begonia in the B. octopetala Group (Begoniaceae)

A morphologically distinct group of 10 species within the Begonia L. sect. Eupetalum (Lindl.) A. DC. is identified and informally named as the B. octopetala L'Her. species group. Two new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) are described and illustrated from this group. The new species B. pseudopleiopetala Tebbitt is based upon type material collected from the Cajamarca region in Peru and is also known from the Piura region of Peru; the second new species B. marinae Tebbitt is based upon type material collected from the Santa Cruz Department in Bolivia and is also known from La Paz, Chuquisaca, and Tarija departments, Bolivia, as well as the province of Salta in adjacent Argentina. A taxonomic synopsis of B. octopetala and a description of one additional species from this species group, B. pleiopetala A. DC., are also provided for comparison. Begonia gracillima A. DC. and B. tenuicaulis A. DC. are newly synonymized with B. pleiopetala. Lectotypes are provided for B. gracillima [= B. pleiopetala], B. pusilla A. DC. [= B. pleiopetala], B. tenuicaulis [= B. pleiopetala], and B. warburgiana Hieron. [= B. pleiopetala].
Radiation, methotrexate, and white matter necrosis: Laboratory evidence for neural radioprotection with preirradiation methotrexate

To investigate the interactions between methotrexate (MTX) and irradiation of the central nervous system, adult rats were infused with MTX via the lateral cerebral ventricle either before, during, or following single fraction irradiation to the cervical spine. Single doses ranging from 1600 cGy to 3200 cGy were administered and the dose-response curve for forelimb paralysis was compared with that seen in irradiated animals which did not receive MTX. There was no effect on the dose-response curve when MTX was administered simultaneously with or following irradiation compared to radiation alone. When MTX was given prior to irradiation, however, the entire dose-response curve shifted in the direction of radioprotection by approximately 225 cGy. Histopathologic examinations were consistent with this observation, with animals pretreated with methotrexate demonstrating significantly less white matter necrosis than observed in untreated controls. Protection of normal CNS tissue from radionecrosis, and from the associated paralysis, may be achieved with preradiation methotrexate.
An electron microscopic study of the choroid plexuses of Necturus maculosus.

The choroid plexuses of the neotenous salamander, Necturus maculosus, were examined by light and electron microscopy. Their epithelium was found to consist of a single layer of flattened to cuboidal cells resting upon a well-developed, continuous basement membrane. The cytoplasm of a typical epithelial cell contained, besides a large, centrally-placed nucleus, numerous mitochondria, an extensive agranular endoplasinic reticulum, prominent Golgi complexes and a variety of dense bodies. In addition, occasional clusters of ribosomes, lipid droplets, fascicles of fine filaments and numerous glycogen granules were present within the cytoplasm. Specializations of the apical (ventricular) surfaces of the epithelial cells included an irregular brush border, cilia, and minute, possibly micropinocytotic, invaginations of the plasma membrane. Surfaces of contacts between epithelial cells were specialized by “tight junctions” desmosomes, and complex inter dictations of the apposed plasma membranes. The interstitial space separating the epithelial layer from the thin-walled, non-fenestrated plexus blood vessels contained a mesh-work of collagen fibrils and a variety of connective tissue cell types. Electron dense Thorotrast particles were found to traverse the endothelial walls of the blood vessels and accumulate within the interstitial spaces within 30 minutes after being injected into the blood stream. The epithelial basement membrane, however, apparently prevented the tracer particles from reaching the epithelial cells, and the ventricular spaces beyond, as long as five hours after injection.
EFFECT OF SKEW ON THE SEISMIC VULNERABILITY OF RC BOX GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

In this study, the seismic vulnerability of post-tensioned reinforced concrete box-girder highway bridges with moderate-to-large skew angles to various levels of ground motion intensity is investigated. The fragility curves are generated by performing incremental nonlinear dynamic analysis (IDA) on the bridges of skew angles of 0, 30, and 60°s. A total of 45 ground motion pairs are considered to develop the fragility curves. The damage states are presented and quantified based on the column rotational ductility and superstructure displacements at the abutments. Furthermore, the fragility curves constructed are compared against those recommended by HAZUS. It is demonstrated that as the skew angle increases, skew bridges become more vulnerable to seismically induced damages. It is also shown that the HAZUS fragility curves may not lead to a consistent prediction of the vulnerability of skewed bridges.
Sulfidic corrosion in refineries – a review

Sulfi dic corrosion of steels in refi neries is a prevalent phenomenon that occurs in oil containing sulfur species between 230 ° C and 425 ° C. There are several internal and external variables controlling the occurrence of sulfi dic corrosion. The most important external factors are temperature, concentration and type of sulfur species, and presence of naphthenic acid. The most important internal or metallurgical factor to control sulfi dic corrosion is the amount of chromium in the steel. The refi nery industry relies today in a vast industrial experience on the variables affecting sulfi dic corrosion but very little is known on the basic mechanism of attack. There is ample room for research and the basic understanding of this phenomenon.
Pressure dependence of the elastic constants of KCl

Abstract The adiabatic elastic constants C 11 , C 12 and C 44 have been evaluated for crystalline KCl as a function of pressure at room temperature. The evaluation is based on a two-body central potential of the form A 1 R −9 + A 2 R −6 ± A 3 R −1 and the normal mode frequencies obtained from local dynamics of two particles allowed to oscillate in a static potential field due to all the rest of particles assumed at rest in their mean positions. The pressure dependence of these principal adiabatic elastic constants is examined in comparison with available experimental data, and a reasonable agreement is observed.
A review of non-commutative gauge theories

Construction of quantum field theory based on operators that are functions of noncommutative space-time operators is reviewed. Examples of Φ4 theory and QED are then discussed. Problems of extending the theories toSU(N) gauge theories and arbitrary charges in QED are considered. Construction of standard model on non-commutative space is then briefly discussed. The phenomenological implications are then considered. Limits on non-commutativity from atomic physics as well as accelerator experiments are presented.
Molecular Similarity Based on DOCK-Generated Fingerprints

An alternative method for defining molecular similarity is presented. By using the docking program DOCK and a reference panel of protein binding sites, fingerprints for a set of molecules have been generated, based on calculated interaction energies. These binding patterns allowed us to calculate matrices of similarity coefficients which subsequently were used for nearest-neighbor searches within the database. Our results indicate that the method is suitable for finding significant similarities of compounds of the same biological activity. Although the overall performance of a traditional 2D similarity method is better in the test systems investigated, our 3D approach can be regarded as complementary since it is able to detect similarities independent of the covalent structure of the compounds. Thus it should be a useful 3D database-searching tool for rational lead discovery.
Growth of optically homogeneous single crystals of Pb5GeO4(VO4)2 from the melt

Abstract The origin of growth striae in the melt grown single crystals of Pb 5 GeO 4 (VO 4 ) 2 was investigated. Under the optimized conditions in which most striae causing growth variables (such as thermal convection) were eliminated, the main cause for the formation of striae was found to be forced convection and associated temperature oscillations in the melt induced by crystal rotation. The period (ω) of the oscillation increased with the decreasing rotation rate (ω). At ω = 30 rpm a temperature oscillation of τ = 3.7 min and 3°C amplitude appeared. The striae spacing of 96 μm in the grown crystal is in close agreement with a value calculated (123 μm) on the basis of τ = 3.7 min and the growth rate of 2 mm/hr. At ω = 0, temperature oscillation and the forced convection disappeared, and homogeneous laser quality single crystals were reproducibly grown.
Inclusion mechanical property estimation using tactile images, finite element method, and artificial neural network

In this paper, we developed a methodology for estimating three parameters of tissue inclusion: size, depth, and Young's modulus from the tactile data obtained at the tissue surface with the tactile sensation imaging system. The estimation method consists of the forward algorithm using finite element method, and inversion algorithm using artificial neural network. The forward algorithm is designed to comprehensively predict the tactile data based on the mechanical properties of the tissue inclusion. This forward information is used to develop an inversion algorithm that will be used to extract the size, depth, and Young's modulus of a tissue inclusion from the tactile image. The proposed method is then validated with custom made tissue phantoms with matching elasticities of typical human breast tissues. The experimental results showed that the proposed estimation method estimates the size, depth, and Young's modulus of tissue inclusions with root mean squared errors of 1.25 mm, 2.09 mm, and 28.65 kPa, respectively.
Preliminary evaluation of NASA scatterometer data and its application to ocean surface analysis and numerical weather prediction

A detailed evaluation of NASA scatterometer (NSCAT) data has recently been performed to determine the error characteristics of this data type and its applicability to ocean surface analysis and numerical weather prediction. The first component of this evaluation consisted of both subjective and objective comparisons of NSCAT winds to ship and buoy observations, Goddard EOS (GEOS) and National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) wind analyses, European Space Agency European Remote Sensing Satellite wind vectors, and Special Sensor Microwave Imager wind speeds. This was then followed by a series of data assimilation and forecast experiments using the GEOS-1 data assimilation system (DAS), the prototype for the GEOS-2 DAS, and an earlier version of the NCEP DAS, that was operational in 1995. This paper will provide a brief summary of these experiments and a few illustrations of the results obtained.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Hitching RIG to action

The cellular RNA helicase RIG-I initiates an antiviral response through the activation of several protein kinases. The physical link between RIG-I and these 'downstream' kinases has now been identified.
A new statement of Einstein's equivalence principle and relevant experiments

Abstract By considering the relationship between a freely falling frame and a local Lorentz frame, we propose a new expression of Einstein's equivalence principle (EEP). According to it, some feasible experiments should be done to test EEP. We point out that the effect of the magnetic-type gravitational counterpart of the Aharonov-Bohm experiment is too small to be detected now.
Evaluation of lipid sources in diets fed to bull trout, Salvelinus confluentus

To aid in development of nutritionally complete diets, a 12-week experiment was conducted to identify appropriate sources of dietary lipid for bull trout. The basal diet was top-coated with marine fish oil (MFO) (pollock liver oil), canola oil (CO), linseed oil (LO) or a mixture of canola and linseed oils (CLO) to produce four treatments. Each diet was fed to triplicate groups of fish initially averaging 1.6 g per fish. Weight gain, feed efficiency, survival and carcass proximate composition were not significantly different among fish fed the dietary treatments. However, whole-body fatty acid percentages varied significantly among fish fed the four diets. Whole bodies of fish fed diets with vegetable oil (VO) contained significantly higher 18:2n-6, 18:3n-3 and total n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid percentages and significantly lower 20:5n-3, 22:6n-3 and total saturated fatty acid percentages compared with fish fed the MFO diet. Whole-body fatty acid percentages also varied among fish fed VO diets. Despite similar 18:2n-6 and 20:4n-6 percentages in the VO diets, fish fed diet CO contained significantly lower 18:2n-6 proportions and significantly higher 20:4n-6 proportions compared with fish fed other VO diets. Results of this study suggest dietary fish oil is not required for short-term rearing of bull trout.
Interactions between zoo-housed great apes and local wildlife

Although there are published reports of wild chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans hunting and consuming vertebrate prey, data pertaining to captive apes remain sparse. In this survey-based study, we evaluate the prevalence and nature of interactions between captive great apes and various indigenous wildlife species that range into their enclosures in North America. Our hypotheses were threefold: (a) facilities housing chimpanzees will report the most frequent and most aggressive interactions with local wildlife; (b) facilities housing orangutans and bonobos will report intermediate frequencies of these interactions with low levels of aggression and killing; and (c) facilities housing gorillas will report the lowest frequency of interactions and no reports of killing local wildlife. Chimpanzees and bonobos demonstrated the most aggressive behavior toward wildlife, which matched our predictions for chimpanzees, but not bonobos. This fits well with expectations for chimpanzees based on their natural history of hunting and consuming prey in wild settings, and also supports new field data on bonobos. Captive gorillas and orangutans were reported to be much less likely to chase, catch and kill wildlife than chimpanzees and bonobos. Gorillas were the least likely to engage in aggressive interactions with local wildlife, matching our predictions based on natural history. However unlike wild gorillas, captive gorillas were reported to kill (and in one case, eat) local wildlife. These results suggest that some behavioral patterns seen in captive groups of apes may be useful for modeling corresponding activities in the wild that may not be as easily observed and quantified. Furthermore, the data highlight the potential for disease transmission in some captive settings, and we outline the associated implications for ape health and safety. Am. J. Primatol. 71:458–465, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Rates of total hip arthroplasty; a population-based study.

Abstract Three hundred eighty-one total hip arthroplasties were performed on residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, during the period from 1969 to 1980, for a rate (adjusted for sex and age) of 44.6 per 100,000 person-years. Rates rose with age, were higher for women than men, and were higher among urban than rural residents of the county. If we assume that the Olmsted County experience is medically optimal and apply it to the 1980 United States population, we calculate a national requirement of over 100,000 total hip arthroplasties per year, well above the current actual figure. If this calculated number of total hip arthroplasties were actually performed each year, over 1.4 million hospital days would be required, and direct medical costs would probably exceed $1 billion annually. (N Engl J Med. 1982; 307:1242–5.)
Synthesis and calibration of phosphorescent nanoprobes for oxygen imaging in biological systems.

Oxygen measurement by phosphorescence quenching [1, 2] consists of the following steps: 1) the probe is delivered into the medium of interest (e.g. blood or interstitial fluid); 2) the object is illuminated with light of appropriate wavelength in order to excite the probe into its triplet state; 3) the emitted phosphorescence is collected, and its time course is analyzed to yield the phosphorescence lifetime, which is converted into the oxygen concentration (or partial pressure, pO2). The probe must not interact with the biological environment and in some cases to be 4) excreted from the medium upon the measurement completion. Each of these steps imposes requirements on the molecular design of the phosphorescent probes, which constitute the only invasive component of the measurement protocol. Here we review the design of dendritic phosphorescent nanosensors for oxygen measurements in biological systems. The probes consist of Pt or Pd porphyrin-based polyarylglycine (AG) dendrimers, modified peripherally with polyethylene glycol (PEG's) residues. For effective two-photon excitation, termini of the dendrimers may be modified with two-photon antenna chromophores, which capture the excitation energy and channel it to the triplet cores of the probes via intramolecular FRET (Forster Resonance Energy Transfer). We describe the key photophysical properties of the probes and present detailed calibration protocols.
Student perceptions of culture: an integral part of social work practice

Abstract Sensitivity to and knowledge of multicultural practice has been viewed as an important priority for social work education in the United States. Since 1968, the Council on Social Work Education has not only required that social work education programs reflect the diversity of a pluralistic society, but has also mandated that social work curriculum include content for cultural competence. This paper reports the findings of an exploratory study designed to explore the extent to which social work students recognize the need for cultural knowledge, sensitivity, and awareness, in their educational programs and professional practice. The results reflect the need for research to establish empirically the progress that has been made in the area of multicultural education and practice in social work.
On the decomposition of n! into prime powers

Abstract If n is a positive integer, we write n! as a product of n prime powers, each at least as large as nδ(n). We define α(n) to be max δ(n), where the maximum is taken over all decompositions of the required type. We then show that limn→∞α(n) exists, and we calculate its value.
Effect of Heat Stress on Energy and Water Utilization of Lactating Cows

Abstract Twelve Holstein cows 45–90 days postpartum were used to determine the effect of 32.2 C constant temperature and high levels of unsaturated and saturated fat on the digestibility and utilization of energy and various other responses during three 30-day periods. The portion of the variance associated with rations was in most cases small as compared to the effects of temperature. At 32.2 C the majority of responses showed significant changes, the greatest of which usually occurred during the first week of each period. Body surface evaporation increased markedly at 32.2 C, with the water coming mostly from a 28% increase in consumption and a 33% decrease in fecal water. Changes in urine output were small. Significant (P
IMPROVED BIOCHEMICAL DISEASE-FREE SURVIVAL OF MEN YOUNGER THAN 60 YEARS WITH PROSTATE CANCER TREATED WITH HIGH DOSE CONFORMAL EXTERNAL BEAM RADIOTHERAPY

ABSTRACTPurpose: We report the long-term prostate specific antigen relapse-free survival rates and predictors of biochemical outcome for patients 60 years or younger with prostate cancer treated with high dose conformal external beam radiotherapy.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 740 patients with prostate cancer treated with 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy or intensity modulated external beam radiotherapy. Patients who also received androgen deprivation therapy were excluded from this analysis. Median radiation dose was 75.6 Gy and median followup was 88 months with a minimum followup of 24 months. Median followup for patients 60 years or younger in this report was 54 months (range 24 to 132). Biochemical failure was defined according to the criteria recommended by the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology Consensus Panel.Results: Biochemical failure developed in 20 (21%) of the 96 men 60 years or younger, which was similar to the 22% failure rate ob...
Extremophile Enzymatic DNA Repair

Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) - dependent DNA photolyase repairs UV-damaged DNA by a photo-induced electron transfer reaction, the rate constant of which is exponentially dependent on temperature. However, how this process is adapted to function in extremophiles, inhabiting thermally extreme environments, is currently unknown. To study the temperature dependence of biological electron transfer under extreme conditions, we have produced recombinant DNA photolyases in E.coli from two extremophiles: Sulfolobus solfataricus, a hyperthermophilic archaeon (rSsPL) and Colwellia psychrerythraea, a psychrophilic bacterium (rCpPL). To the best of our knowledge, rCpPL is the first cold-adapted DNA photolyase to be isolated.Both photolyases contain a noncovalently bound FAD molecule and their absorption spectra display unique features of the protein-bound FAD, suggestive of temperature adaptation. Structural modeling of both photolyases revealed unique features related to their respective thermal environments. The repair activity of rSsPL, in vitro, was comparable to E.coli DNA photolyase (EcPL) at ambient temperature, whereas the repair activity of rCpPL appears to be much slower than its mesophilic and thermophilic counterparts. A comparative study of the repair activities of all three photolyases (EcPL, rCpPL and rSsPL) as a function of various physical and chemical parameters such as, temperature, ionic strength, viscosity, and pH is presented. Denaturation studies on rSsPL reveal its extreme stability as compared to rCpPL, which is extremely sensitive to its thermal and chemical environments.
TGF-β1 diminishes collagen production during long-term cyclic stretching of engineered connective tissue: Implication of decreased ERK signaling

Cyclic stretching and growth factors like TGF-β have been used to enhance extracellular matrix (ECM) production by cells in engineered tissue to achieve requisite mechanical properties. In this study, the effects of TGF-β1 were evaluated during long-term cyclic stretching of fibrin-based tubular constructs seeded with neonatal human dermal fibroblasts. Samples were evaluated at 2, 5, and 7 weeks for tensile mechanical properties and ECM deposition. At 2 weeks, +TGF-β1 samples had 101% higher collagen concentration but no difference in ultimate tensile strength (UTS) or modulus compared to -TGF-β1 samples. However, at weeks 5 and 7, -TGF-β1 samples had higher UTS/modulus and collagen concentration, but lower elastin concentration compared to +TGF-β1 samples. The collagen was better organized in -TGF-β1 samples based on picrosirius red staining. Western blot analysis at weeks 5 and 7 showed increased phosphorylation of ERK in -TGF-β1 samples, which correlated with higher collagen deposition. The TGF-β1 effects were further evaluated by western blot for αSMA and SMAD2/3 expression, which were 16-fold and 10-fold higher in +TGF-β1 samples, respectively. The role of TGF-β1 activated p38 in inhibiting phosphorylation of ERK was evaluated by treating samples with SB203580, an inhibitor of p38 activation. SB203580-treated cells showed increased phosphorylation of ERK after 1 hour of stretching and increased collagen production after 1 week of stretching, demonstrating an inhibitory role of activated p38 via TGF-β1 signaling during cyclic stretching. One advantage of TGF-β1 treatment was the 4-fold higher elastin deposition in samples at 7 weeks. Further cyclic stretching experiments were thus conducted with constructs cultured for 5 weeks without TGF-β1 to obtain improved tensile properties followed by TGF-β1 supplementation for 2 weeks to obtain increased elastin content, which correlated with a reduction in loss of pre-stress during preconditioning for tensile testing, indicating functional elastin. This study shows that a sequential stimulus approach - cyclic stretching with delayed TGF-β1 supplementation - can be used to engineer tissue with desirable tensile and elastic properties.
An overview of the ISPL computer systems design

This paper explores the advantages of the concurrent design of the language, operating system, and machine (via microcode) to create an interactive programming laboratory. It describes the synergistic effect that the freedom to move and alter features from one of these domains to another has had on the design of this system (which has not been implemented). This freedom simplified both incremental compilation and the system's addressing structure, and centralized the communication mechanisms enabling the construction of hierarchical subsystems. It also suggested an important new concept for operating systems: separation of the scheduling from the maintenance functions in resource allocation. This separation enables incorporation of new scheduling algorithms (decision of what to do) without endangering the system integration (correctly performing the scheduling decisions).
Reduction of liver plasma flow by caffeine and theophylline.

Caffeine and theophylline block the vasodilating effects of adenosine and may act to enhance sympathoadrenal discharge and activate the renin-angiotensin system. To determine if these methylxanthines might thereby have effects on regional blood flow, we studied the influence of caffeine and theophylline on apparent liver plasma flow (LPF) in normal subjects as assessed by indocyanine green clearance. Oral caffeine, 250 mg, reduced LPF by 19% from 630 ± 150 to 510 ± 120 ml/min (P < 0.001). Intravenous theophylline (4.3 mg/kg) reduced LPF by 15% from 550 ± 50 to 470 ± 90 ml/min (P < 0.05). These methylxanthine-induced falls in LPF may alter the disposition of concomitantly administered drugs. Because of their widespread use in Western society, caffeine and theophylline may be major determinants of liver blood flow in the general population. They may therefore prolong the t1/2 and increase steady-state levels of hepatically eliminated drugs. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1986) 40, 506–510; doi:10.1038/clpt.1986.215
Do Hedge Fund Managers Misreport Returns? Evidence from the Pooled Distribution

We find a significant discontinuity in the pooled distribution of reported hedge fund returns: the number of small gains far exceeds the number of small losses. The discontinuity is present in live funds, defunct funds, and funds of all ages, suggesting that it is not caused by database biases. The discontinuity is absent in the three months culminating in an audit, funds that invest in liquid assets, and hedge fund risk factors, suggesting that it is generated neither by the skill of managers to avoid losses nor by nonlinearities in hedge fund asset returns. A remaining explanation is that hedge fund managers avoid reporting losses to attract and retain investors.
Gastric neoplasia in horses.

Background: Gastric neoplasia of horses is incompletely described. Objective: Provide history, clinical signs, and clinicopathological and pathological findings associated with gastric neoplasia in horses. Animals: Twenty-four horses with gastric neoplasia. Methods: Retrospective study. History, clinical signs, and clinicopathological and pathologic findings in horses diagnosed histologically with gastric neoplasia were reviewed. Results: Horses ranged in age from 9 to 25 years (median 18 years at presentation). There was no apparent breed or sex predisposition. The most common presenting complaints were inappetance (17/24), weight loss (14/24), lethargy (7/24), hypersalivation (7/24), colic (5/24), and fever (5/24). The most consistent clinical signs were tachypnea (10/19), decreased borborygmi (8/19), and low body weight (7/17). Useful diagnostic tests included rectal examination, routine blood analysis, gastroscopy, abdominocentesis, and transabdominal ultrasound examination. Anemia was the most common hematologic abnormality encountered (7/19), and hypercalcemia of malignancy was seen in 4/16 horses. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common tumor identified (19/24), and was most often (14/19) found as a single ulcerated, necrotic mass in the nonglandular portion of the stomach. Other gastric neoplasms encountered were leiomyoma (n=2), mesothelioma (n=1), adenocarcinoma (n=1), and lymphoma (n=1). Metastatic neoplasia was found in 18/23 horses. The median time from onset of clinical signs to death was 4 weeks, and all horses died or were euthanized because of gastric neoplasia. Conclusions: Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common primary gastric neoplasia in horses. The survival time after diagnosis of gastric neoplasia in horses is short.
Natural consensus filters for second order infinite dimensional systems

Abstract This work proposes consensus filters for a class of second order infinite dimensional systems. The proposed structure of the consensus filters is that of a local filter written in the natural setting of a second order formulation with the additional coupling that enforces consensus by minimizing the disagreement between all local filters. An advantage of the second order formulation imposed on the local filters is the natural interpretation that they retain, namely that the time derivative of the estimated position is equal to the estimated velocity. Stability analysis of the collective dynamics is achieved via the use of a parameter-dependent Lyapunov functional, and which guarantees that asymptotically, all filters agree with each other and that they all converge to the true state of the second order system.
Cysteine Substitutions Reveal Dual Functions of the Amino-terminal Tail in Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Channel Gating

Previously, we observed that the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel openings are destabilized by replacing several acidic residues in the amino-terminal tail with alanines (Naren, A. P., Cormet-Boyaka, E., Fu, J., Villain, M., Blalock, J. E., Quick, M. W., and Kirk, K. L. (1999) Science 286, 544–548). Here we determined whether this effect is due to the loss of negative charge at these sites and whether the amino-terminal tail also modulates other aspects of channel gating. We introduced cysteines at two of these positions (E54C/D58C) and tested a series of methanethiosulfonate (MTS) reagents for their effects on the gating properties of these cysteine mutants in intact Xenopusoocytes and excised membrane patches. Covalent modification of these sites with either neutral (MMTS) or charged (2-carboxyethylmethanethiosulfonate (MTSCE) and 2-(trimethylammonium)ethylmethanethiosulfonate (MTSET)) reagents markedly inhibited channel open probability primarily by reducing the rate of channel opening. The MTS reagents had negligible effects on the gating of the wild type channel or a corresponding double alanine mutant (E54A/D58A) under the same conditions. The inhibition of the opening rate of the E54C/D58C mutant channel by MMTS could be reversed by the reducing agent dithiothreitol (200 μm) or by elevating the bath ATP concentration above that required to activate maximally the wild type channel (>1 mm). Interestingly, the three MTS reagents had qualitatively different effects on the duration of channel openings (i.e. channel closing rate), namely the duration of openings was negligibly changed by the neutral MMTS, decreased by the positively charged MTSET, and increased by the negatively charged MTSCE. Our results indicate that the CFTR amino tail modulates both the rates of channel opening and channel closing and that the negative charges at residues 54 and 58 are important for controlling the duration of channel openings.
On a loose communication between dissimilar CDC 6000 operating systems

This paper describes a system, known as LINK, which provides inter-machine communication between like machines operating under significantly different operating systems. The methodology employed by LINK was selected from among several alternatives on the basis of effectiveness, complexity and cost.
Batch scheduling algorithm for SUCCESS WDM-PON

In this paper we study the problem of scheduling variable-length frames in WDM-PON under Stanford University access (SUCCESS), a next-generation hybrid WDM/TDM optical access network architecture. The SUCCESS WDM-PON architecture has unique features that have direct impact on the design of scheduling algorithms: first, tunable transmitters and receivers at OLT are shared by ONU to reduce transceiver counts; second, the tunable transmitters not only generate downstream data traffic but also provide ONU with optical continuous wave (CW) bursts for upstream transmissions. To provide efficient bidirectional transmissions between OLT and ONU, we propose a batch scheduling algorithm based on the sequential scheduling algorithm previously studied. The key idea is to provide room for optimization and priority queueing by scheduling over more than one frame. In the batch scheduling, frames arriving at OLT during a batch period are stored in virtual output queues (VOQ) and scheduled at the end of the batch period. Through simulation with various configurations, we demonstrate that the proposed batch scheduling algorithm, compared to the original sequential scheduling algorithm, provides higher throughput, especially when the system load is high, and better fairness between upstream and downstream transmissions.
Psychotherapy integration in internships and counseling psychology doctoral programs.

Training directors from APA-accredited internships and counseling psychology doctoral programs reported on the status of doctoral training in psychotherapy integration. A mail survey was used to assess several areas related to psychotherapy integration, such as didactic and clinical training, faculty/staff theoretical orientation and hiring practices, student competency and evaluation, directors’ beliefs about integrative/eclectic training, and internship admissions. Overall results show a positive attitude toward psychotherapy integration in predoctoral training and suggest that the foundations for further student development in psychotherapy integration exist.