cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Alternative Boundaries in Solid Waste Management

Recent trends in solid waste management seem to favor the establishment of minimum performance criteria for waste facilities, as opposed to case by case detailed operational requirements. This implies some generally acceptable upper limit of contamination, say as provided by the primary and secondary Maximum Concentration Level (MCL's) developed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Not so easily defined is the compliance point at which the MCL's may be applied, which can range from the solid waste boundary (a containment option) to some alternative boundary outside the actual waste facility (a retardation option). In either case, it follows that any contaminant migration into the public domain beyond the acceptable boundary must enter below the MCL. The containment option would appear to be strictly a matter of engineering design of the waste facility. With the retardation option, however, there is need for a simplified procedure for assessment of the hydrogeologic environment responsible for retardation and attenuation of the contaminant stream. These are largely dilution and reaction processes. In this paper, some mechanisms of dilution are examined, including geometrical spreading of a contaminant plume, recharge from precipitation, and mixing with surface-water bodies. This analysis focuses on average value calculations that constitute a semiquantitative measure of the dilution potential of waste sites prior to intensive investigations. For compliance and regulatory purposes, a simple model for maximum concentration predictions is developed for one-dimensional steady flow and dispersion in directions perpendicular to the flow path. This model is reasonably operational with a minimum of data in that it avoids chemical reaction and the inherent fitted parameter known as longitudinal dispersion, and employs the actual measured concentration at the solid waste boundary as a boundary condition. The model thus provides a conservative estimate of whether or not minimum performance standards will be achieved at an alternative boundary.
Evaluating the effectiveness of flipped classrooms for teaching CS1

An alternative to the traditional classroom structure that has seen increased use in higher education is the flipped classroom. Flipping the classroom switches when assignments (e.g. homework) and knowledge transfer (e.g. lecture) occur. Flipped classrooms are getting popular in secondary and post-secondary teaching institutions as evidenced by the marked increase in the study, use, and application of the flipped pedagogy as it applies to learning and retention. The majority of the courses that have undergone this change use applied learning strategies and include a significant “learning-by-doing” component. The research in this area is skewed towards such courses and in general there are many considerations that educators ought to account for if they were to move to this form of teaching. Introductory courses in computer programming can appear to have all the elements needed to move to a flipped environment; however, initial observations from our research identify possible pitfalls with the assumption. In this work in progress the authors discuss early results and observations of implementing a flipped classroom to teach an introductory programming course (CS1) to engineering, engineering technology, and software engineering undergraduates.
Growth and development of temperature regulation in nestling cattle egrets.

Abstract 1. 1. The growth of cattle egrets is typical of altricial birds of comparable size and appears best described by the logistic equation. 2. 2. The telemetered body temperatures of six nestlings measured in the field over extended periods ranged between 38 and 40°C. 3. 3. Resistance of nestlings to hypothermia develops gradually after hatching as a more intense standard metabolism and capacities for augmenting muscular thermogenesis in the cold are established. 4. 4. Chicks increase their breathing rate and initiate gular flutter in response to heat loads. At ambient temperatures of 44/2–45°C, they evaporatively dissipated heat at rates up to 2/2–5 times heat production. Heat defense is well developed at hatching in cattle egrets.
Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for suspected renal cell carcinoma in dialysis-dependent patients.

Abstract Objectives To characterize the treatment and outcomes of laparoscopic nephrectomy for suspected renal cancer in patients with dialysis-dependent renal failure. Laparoscopic nephrectomy is currently an accepted modality in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma in many patients. However, the indications for the minimally invasive approach in patients with renal dysfunction are unclear. End-stage renal disease has multiple manifestations associated with increased operative morbidity that are potentially amplified during laparoscopy. Methods We reviewed our single-center experience for performing laparoscopic nephrectomy in patients with renal failure. Of patients receiving dialysis and having a kidney removed laparoscopically, 7 underwent the operation for suspected renal carcinoma because of a solid mass on imaging. The preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations were reviewed. Results Of the 7 patients, 5 (71%) underwent successful removal of the kidney by laparoscopy. The amount of blood loss (120 mL) and the median time to discharge after surgery (3 days) were comparable to published data and our experience in patients with normal renal function; however, the operative time (mean 294 minutes) was longer. No recurrences had been detected at the last follow-up examination (median 21 months, range 18 to 51). Despite meticulous attention to perioperative and anesthetic considerations, two complications were observed—ileus and necrotizing fasciitis of the flank. Conclusions Pure laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal malignancy is feasible in patients with end-stage renal failure. However, this population is at increased risk of complications, despite maintaining the advantages of reduced blood loss and shorter hospitalization. The decision to proceed with laparoscopy and the selection of the specific surgical approach (transperitoneal or retroperitoneal) should be based on both surgeon experience and patient factors. In addition, careful preoperative preparation and intraoperative anesthetic management are crucial.
Kinetics of Carbon Dioxide Absorption into Aqueous Potassium Carbonate and Piperazine

The absorption rate of CO2 was measured in a wetted-wall column in 0.45−3.6 m piperazine (PZ) and 0.0−3.1 m potassium carbonate (K2CO3) at 25−110 °C. A rigorous kinetic model was used to model the data and interpret diffusivities and rate constants. The rate approaches second-order behavior with PZ and is highly dependent on other strong bases. In 1 M PZ, the overall rate constant is 102 000 s-1, 20 times higher than in monoethanolamine. The activation energy is 35 kJ/mol, similar to other amine−CO2 reactions. Rate constants for contributions of carbonate, PZ carbamate, and water to the rate were determined according to base catalysis theory. The addition of neutral salts to aqueous PZ increases the apparent rate constant. In 2.7 M NaCl/0.6 M PZ, the overall rate constant is increased by a factor of 7. Ionic strength effects were accounted for within the rigorous model of K+/PZ mixtures. The absorption rate in concentrated K+/PZ mixtures is up to 3 times faster than in 30 wt % monoethanolamine. At low tem...
On some classes of nonstationary parametric processes

Abstract In this paper we investigate nonstationary stochastic processes that are characterized by temporal- and spectral-domain parameters with the aim of determining when temporal and spectral parameterizations exist simultaneously. We begin by examining the large class of purely nondeterministic nonstationary stochastic processes generated by passing white noise through a general linear time-varying filter. Then four subclasses of nonstationary parametric processes are studied: (1) the rational class; (2) the rational adjoint class; (3) the well-known ARMA class; and (4) the ARMA adjoint class. For each of these classes, we give membership conditions on the Green's function. These conditions are used to determine when minimum-order parameterizations are unique. Next, we use these results to give precise conditions under which a unique minimum-order process is a member of one or more of these classes. Although these conditions are quite restrictive, examples are included to show that these conditions do not apply to nonunique minimum-order parameterizations.
Structure and rheology of twin liquid crystalline polymers

Abstract Addition of short mesogenic segments at the ends of flexible chains alters the mechanical properties by orders of magnitude. Twin liquid crystalline polymers (TLCPs) were synthesized from 4-[(4′-alkoxybenzoyl)oxy]-benzoyl chloride and α,ω-dihydroxy-telechelic polytetrahydrofuran (PTHF) of different molecular weights. With increasing temperature, four equilibrium states of these TLCPs, i.e. crystalline state, phase separated state with mesogenic domains in isotropic PTHF matrix, phase separated amorphous state, and single phase isotropic state, have been observed by dynamic mechanical measurements, differential scanning calorimetry and polarizing microscopy. In the phase separated state, mesogenic domains function as physical crosslinks which give rise to unusually high viscoelastic properties at small strains. Disturbing this state by large amplitude shear resulted in very pronounced shear thinning and slow recovery of structure. At increased temperature, the mesogenic domains become isotropic and their effect as physical crosslinks was significantly reduced, as shown by lower viscoelasticity and weak shear thinning. In the single phase isotropic state above the coexistence temperature Ts, the TLCPs behaved like a common homopolymer of low molecular weight. Ts decreased as the weight ratio of PTHF spacer increased in the experimental range (50–82% PTHF).
Neopatrimonial Regimes and Political Transitions in Africa

This article proposes revisions to the theory of political transitions by analyzing patterns of recent popular challenges to neopatrimonial rule in Africa. The approach is explicitly comparative, based on contrasts between Africa and the rest of the world and among regimes within Africa itself. Arguing against the prevalent view that transitions unfold unpredictably according to the contingent interplay of key political actors, the authors contend that the structure of the preexisting regime shapes the dynamics and sometimes even the outcomes of political transitions. They find that in contrast to transitions from corporatist regimes, transitions from neopatrimonial rule are likely to be driven by social protest, marked by struggles over patronage, and backed by emerging middle classes. Following Dahl, the authors compare African regimes on the basis of the degree of formal political participation and competition allowed. They find that regime variants—personal dictatorship, military oligarchy, plebiscitary one-party regime, and competitive one-party regime—are associated with distinctive transition dynamics. Whereas transitions from military oligarchies are typically managed from the top down and are relatively orderly, transitions from plebiscitary systems often occur discordantly through confrontational national conferences. A consolidated democracy is least likely to result from the abrupt collapse of a personal dictatorship and is most likely, though never guaranteed, from a graduated transition from a competitive one-party regime. In general, getting to democracy is problematic from all regimes that lack institutional traditions of political competition.
On-bead screening of combinatorial libraries: reduction of nonspecific binding by decreasing surface ligand density.

On-bead screening of one-bead-one-compound (OBOC) libraries provides a powerful method for the rapid identification of active compounds against molecular or cellular targets. However, on-bead screening is susceptible to interference from nonspecific binding, which results in biased screening data and false positives. In this work, we have found that a major source of nonspecific binding is derived from the high ligand loading on the library beads, which permits a macromolecular target (e.g., a protein) to simultaneously interact with multiple ligands on the bead surface. To circumvent this problem, we have synthesized a phosphotyrosyl (pY)-containing peptide library on spatially segregated TentaGel microbeads, which feature a 10-fold reduced peptide loading on the bead surface but a normal peptide loading in the bead interior. The library was screened against a panel of 10 Src homology 2 (SH2) domains including those of Csk and Fyn kinases and adaptor protein SLAP, and the specific recognition motif(s) wa...
The effect of colloidal particles on fluid-fluid interfacial properties and emulsion stability

Abstract This paper reviews the relevant work done on the effects of colloidal particles on the rheological properties of fluid-fluid interfaces and on emulsion stability. Results are presented to show that colloidal particles stabilize emulsions primarily by providing steric hindrance to drop-drop coalescence and by modifying the rheological properties of the interfacial region. The effectiveness of colloidal particles in stabilizing emulsions depends largely on the formation of a sufficiently ‘dense layer’ of particles at the oil-water interface. The rheological properties of the interfacial region also change as the concentration of particles at the interface increases and complete surface coverage is achieved. It is shown that at sufficiently high concentrations of particles, colloid-laden interfaces exhibit viscoelastic behavior. Viscoelastic interfaces enhance emulsion stability by increasing the magnitude of steric hindrance and by retarding the rate of liquid drainage between coalescing emulsion droplets.
Temporal characteristics of single-scatter radiation

An efficient and versatile model that describes the temporal characteristics of scattered radiation when single-scatter conditions prevail is proposed and developed. The model is based on the focal radii property of a prolate spheroid, and for an impulsive source located at one focal point and an observer at the other, it associates all scattering events occurring on a given prolate spheriodal surface with the same transit time. All interactions between the radiation and matter are classified as either elastic scattering or absorption, and expressions are obtained for the intensity and the collected energy as a function of time at the observation point. The model is applied to isotropic, Rayleigh, and Mie-type scattering; the single-scatter phase function for Mie-type scattering is approximated by the Henyey-Greenstein function. For simple source and observer geometries, closed-form expressions are obtained for the intensity in the isotropic and Rayleigh cases. Finally, the model is applied to examples which typify middle ultraviolet radiation propagating in the earth’s atmosphere.
MR imaging of rectus femoris origin injuries

To describe the MR imaging findings of acute and chronic rectus femoris origin (RFO) injuries. A retrospective review of pelvic and hip MR imaging procedures was performed over a 4-year period for detection of cases with injuries to the RFO. Subjects were classified as having either acute or chronic symptoms. MR imaging studies, radiographs, CT scans, radiology reports, medical records, and operative notes were reviewed. Imaging analysis was directed to assess injuries affecting the direct and indirect heads of the RFO. Concurrent osseous, cartilaginous and musculotendinous injuries were tabulated. The incidence of RFO injuries on MR imaging was 0.5% (17/3160). With the exception of one case of anterior inferior iliac spine apophysis avulsion and partial tear of the direct head of RFO, all subjects had indirect head of RFO injuries (acute injury 8/9, chronic injury 8/8). Partial tear of the direct head of RFO was less frequently seen (acute injury 3/9, chronic injury 2/8). Partial tears of the conjoint tendon were least frequent (acute 1/9, chronic 2/8). No full-thickness tears of the RFO were noted. Associated labral tears were seen in only one case, with no other concomitant abnormality of the articular cartilage or surrounding soft tissues. All RFO injuries were treated non-operatively. Injuries of the RFO are uncommon on MR examinations of pelvis/hips and may occur in a sequence progressing from indirect head injury to involvement of direct head and conjoint tendon in more severe cases.
Quantity Surcharges: Are They Important in Choosing a Shopping Strategy?

Instead of making value-price comparisons for all members of a product set, consumers may decide to adopt simple purchase decision rules such as larger sizes are better buys. When the unit price of a larger size is greater than the unit price of a smaller size, a quantity surcharge exists. Previous research has established that consumers do frequently encounter quantity surcharges in purchasing grocery products. However, estimates of the amount of the surcharge, the goal of this research, have not previously been reported. In this study the expected return from using the larger-size rule was estimated. The estimation procedure made use of price and size information gathered for all available packages of 23 products sold in 15 grocery stores in one rural Illinois community in October 1981. Nineteen of the 23 grocery products were found to have surcharges, with the mean amount ranging from less than one cent to 65 cents. Tuna fish was the only product for which the expected value of the return from buying a larger size rather than a smaller size was negative. Implications for consumers' choice of shopping strategies are discussed.
Profiling of gene duplication patterns of sequenced teleost genomes: evidence for rapid lineage-specific genome expansion mediated by recent tandem duplications

Gene duplication has had a major impact on genome evolution. Localized (or tandem) duplication resulting from unequal crossing over and whole genome duplication are believed to be the two dominant mechanisms contributing to vertebrate genome evolution. While much scrutiny has been directed toward discerning patterns indicative of whole-genome duplication events in teleost species, less attention has been paid to the continuous nature of gene duplications and their impact on the size, gene content, functional diversity, and overall architecture of teleost genomes. Here, using a Markov clustering algorithm directed approach we catalogue and analyze patterns of gene duplication in the four model teleost species with chromosomal coordinates: zebrafish, medaka, stickleback, and Tetraodon. Our analyses based on set size, duplication type, synonymous substitution rate (Ks), and gene ontology emphasize shared and lineage-specific patterns of genome evolution via gene duplication. Most strikingly, our analyses highlight the extraordinary duplication and retention rate of recent duplicates in zebrafish and their likely role in the structural and functional expansion of the zebrafish genome. We find that the zebrafish genome is remarkable in its large number of duplicated genes, small duplicate set size, biased Ks distribution toward minimal mutational divergence, and proportion of tandem and intra-chromosomal duplicates when compared with the other teleost model genomes. The observed gene duplication patterns have played significant roles in shaping the architecture of teleost genomes and appear to have contributed to the recent functional diversification and divergence of important physiological processes in zebrafish. We have analyzed gene duplication patterns and duplication types among the available teleost genomes and found that a large number of genes were tandemly and intrachromosomally duplicated, suggesting their origin of independent and continuous duplication. This is particularly true for the zebrafish genome. Further analysis of the duplicated gene sets indicated that a significant portion of duplicated genes in the zebrafish genome were of recent, lineage-specific duplication events. Most strikingly, a subset of duplicated genes is enriched among the recently duplicated genes involved in immune or sensory response pathways. Such findings demonstrated the significance of continuous gene duplication as well as that of whole genome duplication in the course of genome evolution.
Update on strategies to increase HDL quantity and function

Low levels of HDL cholesterol are a significant predictor of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events. HDL is believed to protect against atherosclerosis by promoting reverse cholesterol transport, and potentially through anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antithrombotic and nitric oxide effects. The multiple mechanisms of action, as well as a limited ability to measure these properties, make HDL a complex therapeutic target, albeit one with immense potential for the treatment of patients with atherosclerosis. Here, we discuss new therapeutic strategies currently being developed, which have the potential to increase plasma levels of HDL cholesterol and/or improve HDL function.
Relational Paradox: Toward a Language of Interactional Sequences*

The author discusses and clarifies the “Theory of Logical Types” which forms the cornerstone of the “Double Bind Hypothesis.” A clear distinction is made between single sentence double binds and double binds that evolve in an interaction over time. The crucial term “metacommunication” is redefined in a manner consistent with logical type theory. The locus of message-level confusion is shifted from the messages of the sender to the arena of the communicant's interaction. Analysis of the interactional arena reveals a phenomenon which the author labels “Relational Paradox.” Several examples are given which illustrate how paradoxes can arise even if neither interactant is sending messages which are intrinsically bewildering.
Rett syndrome: positron emission tomography (PET) studies.

The workings of the brain can be viewed from the molecular, cellular, regional or behavioral level. Positron emission tomography makes it possible to relate the chemistry of the brain to the functions of the mind in living human beings. In combination with new ways of looking at the structure of the brain in patients with childhood mental handicaps, it is now possible to examine the biochemical basis of energy supply to various regions of the brain and to assess various biochemical reactions involved in the process of neurotransmission. For example, it has recently been demonstrated that the rate of accumulation of fluorine-18 labeled L-dopa in the caudate nucleus of persons exposed to MPTP, a chemical toxin that produces clinical signs similar to those of Parkinson disease, is reduced to a measureable degree before the development of any symptoms [Calne DB, et al, 1985]. In addition to measuring neurotransmitter synthesis, it is possible to measure the number and affinity of neuroreceptors inspecific regions of the living brain. This was accomplished first in the case of dopamine and serotonin receptors, but subsequently techniques were developed for the study of opiate, benzodiazepine and muscarinic cholinergic receptors as well.
The optical absorption edge of rare earth sesquisulfides and alkaline earth - rare earth sulfides

Abstract Optical band gaps were measured by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy on a series of Ln 2 S 3 compounds of α, δ, e and τ structure types and on a series of ternary sulfides MLn 2 S 4 (M = Sr, Cd, Mg) of Th 3 P 4 , CaFe 2 O 4 and spinel structure types. Sharp absorption edges are observed with band gaps ranging from 2.2 to 3.5 eV. Systematic changes occur with rare earth radii. Analysis of some of the absorption edges suggests direct forbidden transitions.
Comment on Conrad and Kotani

Abstract This comment discusses some shortcomings of the recent paper by Conrad and Kotani on the issue of drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Specifically examined are the impacts of the oil price model specification, the discount rate and the value of drilling.
Technology transfer at Harvard University

This memorandum was prepared by Daniel Steiner, General Counsel to Harvard University on behalf of the President's Office and distributed to the faculty in October, 1980. It reviews recent Harvard policy with regard to patents and technology transfer. Spurred by recombinant DNA research, at Harvard and elsewhere, benefits and pitfalls of the University's participation as a minor shareholder in a company engaged in research and development are identified. The author notes that “The memorandum has benefited from numerous discussions with members of the faculty and administration and in particular from the comments of President (Derek) Bok and Dean (Henry) Rosovsky.”
Alumina and Zirconia Ceramic Lined Pipes Produced by a Centrifugal-Thermit Process

Influence des proprietes thermiques des couches de ceramique produits sur la qualite du materiau. Ces poudres reactives sont les systemes stœchiometriques Al−Fe 3 O 4 , Zr−Fe 3 O 4 et Al−Zr−Fe 3 O 4 , qui produisent respectivement des couches de ceramique d'alumine, de zircone et d'eutectique alumine-zircone. Les proprietes mecaniques des tubes telles que la porosite et la resistance a la compression s'ameliorent lorsque la temperature de fusion de la ceramique diminue, et la contrainte de compression-cisaillement s'ameliore lorsque la temperature de fusion augmente
An observer-based compensator for distributed delays in integrated control systems

This paper presents an algorithm for compensation of delays that are distributed within a control loop. The observer-based algorithm is especially suitable for compensating network-induced delays that are likely to occur in integrated control systems of the future generation aircraft. The robustness of the algorithm relative to uncertainties in the plant model have been examined.
Transcriptional Repression of the α-Subunit Gene by Androgen Receptor Occurs Independently of DNA Binding but Requires the DNA-Binding and Ligand-Binding Domains of the Receptor

The pituitary glycoprotein hormones LH and FSH regulate the reproductive cycle and are sensitive to feedback by gonadal steroids. The common alpha-subunit shared by these hormones is transcriptionally repressed by androgen receptor (AR) in the presence of its ligand dihydrotestosterone. This identifies at least one mechanism that contributes to AR-dependent suppression of gonadotropin synthesis. Repression of alpha-subunit transcription by AR requires only the sequences within the first 480 bp of the promoter. While this region contains a high-affinity binding site for AR, this element does not mediate the suppressive effects of androgens. Instead, two other elements within the promoter-regulatory region (alpha-basal element and cAMP-regulatory element), which are important for expression of the alpha-subunit gene in gonadotropes, mediate the effects of AR. This suggests that AR inhibits activity of the alpha-subunit promoter by interfering with the transcriptional properties of the proteins that bind to alpha-basal element and the cAMP-regulatory elements. Furthermore, transfection analysis of various mutant ARs identified both the DNA-binding and ligand-binding domains of the receptor as critical for repression. Comparisons with the MMTV promoter revealed distinct structural requirements that underlie the transactivation and transrepression properties of AR.
NMR order parameters calculated in an expanding reference frame: identifying sites of short- and long-range motion.

NMR order parameters are calculated from molecular dynamics computer simulations of ubiquitin and the apo (Ca(2+)-free) state of calbindin D(9k). Calculations are performed in an expanding reference frame so as to discriminate between the effects of short- and long-range motions. This approach reveals that the dominant contributions to the order parameters are short-range. Longer-range contributions are limited to specific sites, many of which have been recognized in previous studies of correlated motions. These sites are identified on the basis of an effective reorientational number, n ( eff ). Not only does this parameter identify sites of short- and long-range motion, it also provides a way of evaluating the separability condition that is key to the Lipari-Szabo model-free method. When analyzed in conjunction with the Prompers-Bruschweiler separability index, the n ( eff ) values indicate that longer-range motions play a more prominent role in apo calbindin than they do in ubiquitin.
Visibility-Based Forest Walk-Through Using Inertial Level of Detail Models

Modern simulation and training applications often require visualization of large scenes with many complex objects. However, this places prohibitive requirements on graphics hardware. For example, while methods for rendering near photo-realistic vegetation scenes have been described in the literature, they require minutes of computation. In this paper we present scene and level of detail management (LOD) techniques for achieving interactive frame rates for a forest walk-through. The framework selects the LOD based on object visibility, in addition to projected size. Moreover, visibility is calculated at runtime so we can support dynamic scene modification, such as interactively altered trees due to wind, explosions or fire. We also introduce an inertial level of detail model to minimize popping artifacts – rather than instantly switching the LODs, discrete LODs are smoothly blended over a number of frames. The described techniques can be readily adapted for scenes other than forests, providing support for ...
Office Based Vasectomy Can be Performed by Supervised Urological Residents With Patient Pain and Morbidity Comparable to Those of a Staff Surgeon Procedure

Purpose: Although it is routinely performed in the ambulatory setting, vasectomy is an intricate surgical procedure with the potential for significant pain and morbidity. We determined from our prospective, institutional review board approved database whether vasectomy pain was affected by whether a staff surgeon or resident was the primary surgeon on the case.Materials and Methods: One staff surgeon and 14 residents in training year 2, 3 or 5 performed bilateral percutaneous no-scalpel vasectomy. Men scheduled to undergo vasectomy were assigned to the staff urologist (134) or to a resident (133) as the primary surgeon. The staff surgeon demonstrated the first vasectomy each month when a new resident rotated on service and all residents were directly assisted by the staff surgeon. Pain associated with each side of the bilateral vasectomy was assessed with a 0 to 100 mm visual analog scale.Results: The average visual analog scale score of the 2 sides was 19.5 in patients in the staff cohort and 21.8 in tho...
Congestive heart failure due to adriamycin cardiotoxicity: Its natural history in children

The congestive heart failure (CHF) associated with Adriamycin cardiotoxicity is frequently fatal. To investigate the course of Adriamycin-induced congestive heart failure, all Adriamycin-treated children who developed congestive heart failure at the Children's Hospital Medical Center and Sidney Farber Cancer Institute were studied. Criteria for Adriamycin-induced congestive heart failure included clinical evidence of left ventricular (LV) failure and echocardiographic evidence of abnormal left ventricular function. Fifteen children fulfilled these criteria. Eleven patients received between 400 and 500 mg/m2 of Adriamycin; four patients received cumulative doses over 500 mg/m2. Twelve of 15 (80%) children survived their acute episode of congestive heart failure. At follow-up, three patients had normalized their echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular function, three had died of their malignancies with compensated cardiac function until death, and six were clinically asymptomatic despite persistence of abnormal LV function on echocardiogram. Only three patients died of Adriamycin cardiomyopathy. In children treated with aggressive medical therapy, congestive heart failure secondary to Adriamycin cardiotoxicity may be reversible in certain cases.
Mutagenesis of yeast by hydrazine: dependence upon post-treatment cell division.

Abstract Hydrazine was found to be mutagenic for yeast ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae ) at exposures (concentration × time) ranging over nearly three orders of magnitude. Little or no forward mutation from CAN1 to can1 was detectable upon immediate plating following treatment in neutral buffer suspension. Post-treatment cell division in yeast extract peptone dextrose complex growth medium was required for expression of induced mutation to canavanine resistance. Frequencies of induced mutation rose to levels approximately 10-fold higher than spontaneous levels for exposures between 0.1 and 12.0 min mol/l. Survival remained at 100%. For exposures greater than 80 min mol/l viability and mutation frequency began to decrease sharply. By contrast, single treatments of ethyl methanesulfonate, methyl methanesulfonate, N -methyl- N ′-nitro- N -nitro-soguanidine, nitrous acid, hydroxylamine, and ultraviolet light were able to increase mutation frequency with this system upon immediate assay. Further growth-dependent increases in mutation frequency were not observed with HA and UV. Expression of HZ-induced mutation was detectable after treated cells had undergone less than one population doubling in YEPD. Such mutation expression could be blocked by the inhibitors cycloheximide and hydroxyurea, which block protein synthesis and DNA synthesis respectively. Results were similar to those obtained previously with Haemophilus influenzae and similarly suggest that, in this eukaryote, HZ-induced lesions lead to mutation by causing base mispairing at DNA replication rather than by means of an error-prone repair mechanism.
Surgical management of hemorrhoids.

The management of symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease should be directed at the symptom complex of the individual patient. Most patients can be successfully treated by improving bowel function, correcting constipation, and the use of any of a variety of anal ointments. For persistent symptoms, either injection or banding of the internal hemorrhoids is predictably successful. Few patients should require excisional hemorrhoidectomy by any of the described techniques. Circular stapled hemorrhoidectomy may prove to be an effective, less painful technique to manage grade 3 hemorrhoids.
Using chiral perturbation theory to extract the neutron-neutron scattering length from π − d → nn γ

The reaction ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathit{nn}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ is calculated in chiral perturbation theory so as to facilitate an extraction of the neutron-neutron scattering length (${a}_{\mathit{nn}}$). We include all diagrams up to $O({Q}^{3})$. This includes loop effects in the elementary ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\gamma}n$ amplitude and two-body diagrams, both of which were ignored in previous calculations. We find that the chiral expansion for the ratio of the quasi-free (QF) to final-state-interaction (FSI) peaks in the final-state neutron spectrum converges well. Our third-order calculation of the full spectrum is already accurate to better than 5%. Extracting ${a}_{\mathit{nn}}$ from the shape of the entire ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathit{nn}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ spectrum by using our calculation in its present stage would thus be possible at the $\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.8$ fm level. A fit to the FSI peak only would allow an extraction of ${a}_{\mathit{nn}}$ with a theoretical uncertainty of $\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2$ fm. The effects that contribute to these error bars are investigated. The uncertainty in the nn rescattering wave function dominates. This suggests that the quoted theoretical error of $\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3$ fm for the most recent ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathit{nn}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ measurement may be optimistic. The possibility of constraining the nn rescattering wave function used in our calculation more tightly---and thus reducing the error---is briefly discussed.
Transhepatic dilation of anastomotic biliary strictures in liver transplant recipients with use of a combined cutting and conventional balloon protocol: technical safety and efficacy.

PURPOSE To determine the safety and technical efficacy of a transhepatic dilation protocol involving the use of a combined cutting and conventional balloon protocol in the management of anastomotic biliary strictures in adult liver transplant recipients MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective review of adult transplant recipients undergoing transhepatic cutting balloon dilation for anastomotic biliary strictures was performed over a period of 8 months. Cutting balloon dilation was followed by conventional balloon dilation with use of a balloon with a diameter at least as large as that of the initial cutting balloon. Technically successful dilation was defined by improvement of the biliary stricture. A technically successful regimen was defined by a residual stenosis less than 30% after a maximum of three sessions. The technical results were stratified according to lesions treated for the first time and those with restenosis. Comparison among institutions in terms of published methods and technical results were made RESULTS Twenty-two patients with liver transplants underwent 49 cutting balloon dilation sessions as part of 27 regimens (1.8 sessions per regimen): 12 cases of primary treatment, 10 cases of restenosis, four for intraprocedural failures of conventional balloon dilation, and one for the latter two indications. Technical success rates of regimens for primary stenoses, restenoses, and all cases were 100%, 90%, and 93%, respectively. These results compare favorably with historic intrainstitutional results, which are 89%, 73%, and 85% for primary stenoses, restenoses, and all cases, respectively. In addition, no biliary ruptures or cases of major hemobilia were encountered. Minor hemobilia was encountered in 10% of cases CONCLUSIONS The use of commercially available cutting balloons augmented subsequently with larger conventional balloons is safe for transhepatic balloon dilation and can increase the technical success rate of percutaneous management of transplant biliary strictures
Molecular interactions in 1,3-dimethylimidazolium-bis(trifluromethanesulfonyl)imide ionic liquid

Abstract Molecular interactions in 1,3-dimethylimidazolium-bis(trifluromethanesulfonyl)imide ionic liquids are studied by employing the ab initio Hartree–Fock and density functional methods. Different conformers are simulated with respect to molecular interactions between cation and anion. Manifestation of these molecular interactions in the vibrational spectra is discussed. Direction of frequency shifts of the normal vibrations relative to those in free anion and cations are explained by calculating difference electron density coupled with molecular electron density topography.
Continuous Preference Logic for System Evaluation

In this paper, we investigate mathematical models that are suitable for modeling decisions in the area of system evaluation, comparison, and selection. Our interest is focused on soft computing models that can be directly related to observable properties of human reasoning, and have a record of use in system evaluation practice. We analyze various approaches to defining andness and orness, and use a generalized conjunction/disjunction (GCD) to build compound preference logic functions and logic models for system evaluation. We also present applications of the continuous preference logic in decision models based on the LSP method.
Differential diagnosis of huge abdominal masses visualized on CT scans

Thirty-one consecutive cases of very large abdominal masses (greater than 10 cm in largest dimension) were identified from CT scans on 2145 patients performed over a 15-month period. All were malignant tumors. The most useful information derived from CT scans was the location and organ of origin. The tissue of origin could be predicted from knowledge of the organs expected in each abdominal quadrant or pelvic site. Our results indicate that CT is extremely useful in evaluating very large masses.
Beowulf 881a: “Eam His Nefan”

Soon after Grendel's bloody arm is discovered, a scop begins to sing the stories of Beowulf, Sigemund, and Heremod. Each story bears on the deeds and fate of Beowulf: how and to what degree are mat...
Interferon-gamma (+874) T/A genotypes and risk of IFN-alpha-induced depression

Depression is a frequent side effect of interferon (IFN)-alpha therapy of hepatitis C (HCV) and is of great relevance with regard to adherence, compliance, and premature therapy discontinuation. There are no reliable tests to identify patients-at-risk for the development of IFN-alpha induced depression. We retrospectively studied distribution of IFN-gamma (IFNG) (+874) T/A genotypes in 170 Caucasian HCV patients treated by IFN-alpha. Distribution of IFNG (+874) genotypes was different between depressed and not depressed subjects with more TA and less AA carriers among depressed than among not depressed subjects (P = 0.003). Carriers with at least one T allele were more frequent among depressed than among not depressed patients (P = 0.003). Our results suggest that presence of high producer (T) alleles might be a genetic risk factor for the development of IFN-alpha-induced depression. Assessment of IFNG (+874) genotypes might help to identify patients-at-risk for IFN-alpha-induced depression. IFNG and IFN-alpha transcriptionally induce indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), the rate-limiting enzyme of the kynurenine (KYN) pathway of tryptophan (TRY) metabolism. IFN-induced up-regulation of IDO triggers depression by shifting TRY metabolism from formation of serotonin to production of neuroactive kynurenines. TRY–KYN pathway might be a new target for pharmacological prevention and treatment of IFN-alpha-induced psychiatric complications.
UVa Bus.NET: enhancing user experiences on smart devices through context-aware computing

The compact, mobile device, such as the PocketPC, is often regarded as little more than a handy, smaller "portal" by which to access information kept on larger back-end machines such as exchange servers and WWW servers. However, the true value of the device may ultimately result from more sophisticated approaches by which the device can fully recognize and change its behavior based on its context, such as location, remaining battery life, available networking, and user preferences. We present "UVa Bus.NET", a testbed at the University of Virginia for developing and evaluating general, context-aware, mobile solutions. We use .NET, .NET Compact Framework, GPS-enabled devices, and wireless networking inside buildings to notify students and professors of impending appointments and class meetings, give directions to their next appointment, and even direct them to the real-time location of the most appropriate bus to catch. The longer-term goals of UVa Bus.NET are also presented: to provide a more predictable experience to mobile device users by hiding and otherwise managing resource limitations.
Statistical Considerations in the Psychometric Validation of Outcome Measures

Background The evaluation of the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty requires measurement tools that are valid, reliable, and responsive to change. However, the accuracy of any outcome measurement is determined by the validity and reliability of the instrument used. To ensure this accuracy, it is imperative that each instrument used in orthopaedics is free of biases leading to inaccurate estimates of treatment effects.
Characterization of developing microbial communities in Mount St. Helens pyroclastic substrate

The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens created a unique opportunity to study microbial communities in a developing soil ecosystem containing little total carbon (C) or total nitrogen (N). We collected surface samples (0–5 cm) from areas near Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument 17 years after the eruption. The samples were from bare soil with no plant development, soil under living prairie lupine (Lupinus lepidus) and dead prairie lupine in the pyroclastic plain near Spirit Lake, Washington. We also collected soil from a nearby forested area. Phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) from pyroclastic materials were analyzed to determine changes in soil microbial composition. Total bacterial DNA was also extracted from the soils and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of 16S rRNA genes and DNA sequence analysis of cloned 16S rRNA gene libraries were used to determine the influence of plants on microbial development. Both principal components analysis (PCA) of PLFA fingerprints and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMS) of DGGE fingerprints distinguished the four soils. Lupine plants influenced the PLFA and DGGE fingerprints depending on the distance of the samples from the plant. DGGE and PLFA profiles from the forest soil were significantly different (P ¼ 0.001, based on Monte Carlo permutation test) from those of the bare soil and soil with live lupine. Bacterial clone libraries were constructed, and 800 clones were analyzed by amplified ribosomal DNA restriction analysis (ARDRA) and grouped into operational taxonomic units (OTUs). A total of 51, 77, 58, and 42 different OTUs were obtained from forest soil, soil with live and dead lupine, and bare soil, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 62% of the 228 OTUs were classified as Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacterium, Verrucomicrobia, Bacteroides, Cyanobacteria, Planctomycetes, and candidate divisions TM7 and OP10. Members of Proteobacteria represented 29% of the OTUs. Thirty-eight percent of the OTUs could not be classified into known bacterial divisions. This study emphasized the role of prairie lupine in the establishment of pioneering microbial communities and the subsequent roles the biotic components played in improving the quality of pyroclastic soil. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Hybrid Sol–Gel Glasses with Glass‐Transition Temperatures Below Room Temperature

Melting gels are hybrid gels that have the ability to soften and flow at around 100°C for some combinations of mono- and di-substituted alkoxysiloxanes, where substitutions are either all aromatic or all aliphatic. In this study, melting gels were prepared using phenyltriethoxysilane (PhTES) and dimethyldiethoxysilane (DMDES), meaning both an aromatic and aliphatic substitution. Differential scanning calorimetry was performed to identify glass-transition temperatures, and thermal gravimetric analysis coupled with differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA) was performed to measure weight loss. The glass-transition temperatures (Tg) ranged from −61°C to +5.6°C, which are between the values in the methyl only system, where all Tg values are less than 0°C, and those values in the phenyl only system, where Tg values are greater than 0°C. The Tg decreased with an increase in the DMDES fraction. Below 450°C, the gels lost little weight, but around 600°C there was a drop in weight. This temperature is lower than the temperature for gels prepared with only aromatic substitutions, but higher than that for gels prepared with only aliphatic substitutions. Final heat treatment was carried out at 150°C for the gel with 80%PhTES-20%DMDES (in mol%), and the consolidation temperature increased with increasing DMDES content to 205°C for the gel with 50%PhTES-50%DMDES. After this heat treatment, the melting gels no longer soften.