cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Texas tech field experiments for wind loads part II: meteorological instrumentation and terrain parameters

Abstract This paper presents information on the wind and terrain parameters at the Texas Tech Wind Engineering Research Field Laboratory. Details of the meteorological tower and instrumentation are given, as well as a description of the meteorological data which has been collected so far. The data and terra parameters will assist researchers in performing wind tunnel simulations.
Modification of single sodium channels by the insecticide tetramethrin

(+)-trans-Tetramethrin, a pyrethroid insecticide, markedly prolongs the open time of single sodium channels recorded by the gigaohm-seal voltage clamp technique in a membrane patch excised from the N1E-115 neuroblastoma cell. Single channel conductance is not altered by tetramethrin. The modification by tetramethrin occurs in an all-or-none manner in a population of sodium channels. The observed tetramethrin-induced modification of single sodium channels is compatible with previous sodium current data from axons.
The use of a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap in the repair of spinal defects in spina bifida

Abstract The latissimus dorsi muscle is displaced laterally in spina bifida. It can be transposed with the overlying skin as a myocutaneous flap to cover large and relatively low spinal defects when hinged on the axilla. One flap is sufficient to cover the defect in a valvular fashion, without leaving a potentially unstable midline scar.
Primary vesico-ureteric reflux: The need for individualised risk stratification

The management of paediatric primary vesico-ureteric reflux (VUR) has undergone serial changes over the last decade. As this disorder is extremely heterogeneous, and high-quality prospective data are limited, the treatment strategies vary among centres. Current treatment options include observation only, continuous antibiotic prophylaxis, and surgery. Surgical intervention is indicated if a child has a breakthrough urinary tract infection (UTI) while on continuous antibiotic prophylaxis or if there are renal scars present. After excluding a secondary cause of VUR the physician should consider the risk factors affecting the severity of VUR and manage the child accordingly. Those factors include demographic factors (age at presentation, gender, ethnicity) and clinical factors (VUR grade, unilateral vs. bilateral, presence of renal scars, initial presentation, the number of UTIs, and presence of any voiding or bowel dysfunction). In this review we summarise the major controversial issues in current reports on VUR and highlight the importance of individualised patient management according to their risk stratification.
Airway Hemangiomas: Contemporary Management

Methods: A review of the literature and the author's pediatric otolaryngology experience regarding the clinical presentation and contemporary management of airway hemangiomas, with an emphasis on subglottic hemangiomas. Conclusion: A myriad of medical and surgical treatment options exist for children with airway hemangiomas. Careful application of these technologies allows for satisfying outcomes in most cases.
Justice, Interpretation and the Cosmopolitan Idea

This essay attempts to navigate what I take to be the central paradox in discussions of global justice: how does one acknowledge the distinctness of other political cultures while at the same time ...
Atomic ordering and ferromagnetism in binary alloys

Abstract Atomic and magnetic ordering in binary alloys are studied within the mean field approximation. The influence of magnetism on the spatial order-disorder critical temperature and, conversely, the influence of chemical order on the Curie temperature are analyzed in detail. Phase diagrams for various cases are presented. In particular we find that the interplay of the two order parameters yields in some cases unusual sequences of phases as a function of temperature. For example we obtain a possible sequence with increasing temperature of spatially ordered ferromagnet → spatially ordered paramagnet → spatially disordered ferromagnet → disordered paramagnet.
Using Problem-Based Learning with Victims of Bullying Behavior.

Victims of bullying need assistance in developing better strategies for effectively responding to bullies. Utilizing a new intervention strategy, problem-based learning (PBL), school counselors can incorporate problem- solving and literature-based lessons. This strategy provides the possibility of increasing awareness and knowledge of bullying, achieving teacher/parent involvement, and teaching assertiveness skills. A singlesubject design was utilized to determine the effectiveness of PBL with five victims of bullying behavior. Results and implications for school counselors are discussed.
Effect of a Precipitation-Driven Downdraft on a Rotating Wind Field: A Possible Trigger Mechanism for Tornadoes?

Abstract The Physical and dynamical effects of simulated precipitation in a rotating wind field are examined by numerical experiments. The physical-dynamical model consists of the three equations of motion, a thermodynamic equation, a conservation equation for precipitation, a diagnostic pressure equation, and appropriate boundary conditions, that are solved numerically by use of central space and time differences in a 1.84 km by 1.82 km grid. While no moisture and latent-heat exchanges are included in this model, the effect of rain and hail is simulated through differing terminal velocities. The results of two experiments show that vorticity is concentrated by the precipitation-induced, accelerating downdraft which, descending dry adiabatically, becomes warmer than the air outside of the downdraft because the lapse rate of potential temperature in the environmental air is assumed close to moist adiabatic. Near the surface, the air in the downdraft attains sufficient positive buoyancy to overcome the nega...
Risk characterization of vapor intrusion in former manufactured gas plant sites.

Abstract Soil vapor intrusion (SVI) has recently garnered much interest as a potential exposure route for occupants of properties overlying and surrounding former Manufactured Gas Plants (MGPs). This investigation evaluates SVI at 10 commercial buildings and 26 single family and multi-family residential properties overlying and/or adjacent to three former MGPs. SVI was evaluated in three categories according to thickness of the vadose zones: no vadose zone; 0–6 feet thick, and 6–25 feet thick. Indoor and outdoor air, and soil vapor samples were analyzed for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Comparative risks were evaluated based on maximum and mean concentrations for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes relative to background levels. All calculated Hazard Indices were less than 1 or were comparable to mean and maximum background levels. Cancer risks for exposure to benzene ranged from 9.75 × 10−6 to 4.52 × 10−4. Comparative background cancer risk from benzene exposure not related to former MGP sites ranged from 9.9 × 10−6 to 3.59 × 10−3. The results did not identify evidence of MGP-related soil vapor intrusion from any of the 36 sites. No increased public health risks were associated with occupied residential or commercial properties overlying or surrounding MGPs.
How a Cognitive Psychologist Came to Seek Universal Laws

My early fascination with geometry and physics and, later, with perception and imagination inspired a hope that fundamental phenomena of psychology, like those of physics, might approximate universal laws. Ensuing research led me to the following candidates, formulated in terms of distances along shortest paths in abstract representational spaces: Generalization probability decreases exponentially and discrimination time reciprocally with distance. Time to determine the identity of shapes and, provisionally, relation between musical tones or keys increases linearly with distance. Invariance of the laws is achieved by constructing the representational spaces from psychological rather than physical data (using multidimensional scaling) and from considerations of geometry, group theory, and symmetry. Universality of the laws is suggested by their behavioral approximation in cognitively advanced species and by theoretical considerations of optimality. Just possibly, not only physics but also psychology can aspire to laws that ultimately reflect mathematical constraints, such as those of group theory and symmetry, and, so, are both universal and nonarbitrary.
A nucleon-nucleon potential consistent with experiment and the boson exchange theory of nuclear forces

Abstract The nucleon-nucleon data are fitted by a boundary condition model interaction determined largely by field-theoretic forms. One and two pions, ϱ, ω, and η meson exchange adiabatic local potentials determine th interaction for r ⩾ 1 2 μ where (1/μ) is the pion Compton wavelength. The two-pion-exchange contribution contains a degree of ambiguity measured by the parameters ξ and λ for the pion-ladder and nucleonpair diagrams respectively. The interaction at r0 is given by an energy-independent boundary condition for each partial wave sensitive to the short-range interaction. A very good fit to the pp data and a good fit to the np data below 350-MeV-nucleon laboratory energy comparable to the better phenomenological fits are obtained. The optimum or fixed value of exchange-particle masses and coupling constants correspond to their available measured values, and the λ and ξ parameters optimize in their theoretical range. The value obtained for r0 corresponds to that predicted by the theory of the boundary-condition model. There remain 19 boundary-condition parameters freely fitted to which the data is sensitive. Rescattering and long-range recoil corrections remain to be investigated, as does the effect of coupling to inelastic channels.
Instantaneous energy separation in a free jet. Part I. Flow measurement and visualization

Abstract “Energy separation” is the re-distribution of the total energy in a fluid flow without external work or heat, and has potential to heat or cool a fluid without using a conventional heating or cooling system. However, currently obtainable heating and/or cooling effects are not big enough for practical applications. It is required to understand the mechanism of energy separation and investigate its enhancement methods. In the present study which consists of two parts, energy separation in a free jet is investigated with instantaneous velocity and total temperature measurements. As a method to enhance energy separation, acoustic excitation with various frequencies is examined. In this first part, an experimental study is performed to investigate the motion of the coherent vortical structure and its response to acoustic excitation in free jets whose Reynolds numbers are 8000 and 120,000. For the low Reynolds number jet, spectral analysis of instantaneous velocity and flow visualization by a schlieren system are performed to characterize the motion of the large scale coherent vortical structure. The frequency of dominant fluctuation, which represents the vortex passing frequency at a given axial location, is around Sr D ≈0.65 at z / D =1 and moves to Sr D ≈0.4 at z / D =4. When acoustic excitation is applied, the coherent structure develops more rapidly than in the absence of excitation regardless of the excitation frequency, but very regular and strong vortex pairing is observed only when acoustic excitation with Sr ex =0.9. The flow characteristics of the high Reynolds number jet are also investigated with spectral analysis. The result shows that the velocity fluctuation level is generally elevated, but the frequency of dominant fluctuation is still within 0.4⩽ Sr D ⩽0.6. The response to acoustic excitation is also very similar to the low Reynolds number jet.
High-throughput mapping of protein occupancy identifies functional elements without the restriction of a candidate factor approach

There are a variety of in vivo and in vitro methods to determine the genome-wide specificity of a particular trans-acting factor. However there is an inherent limitation to these candidate approaches. Most biological studies focus on the regulation of particular genes, which are bound by numerous unknown trans-acting factors. Therefore, most biological inquiries would be better addressed by a method that maps all trans-acting factors that bind particular regions rather than identifying all regions bound by a particular trans-acting factor. Here, we present a high-throughput binding assay that returns thousands of unbiased measurements of complex formation on nucleic acid. We applied this method to identify transcriptional complexes that form on DNA regions upstream of genes involved in pluripotency in embryonic stem cells (ES cells) before and after differentiation. The raw binding scores, motif analysis and expression data are used to computationally reconstruct remodeling events returning the identity of the transcription factor(s) most likely to comprise the complex. The most significant remodeling event during ES cell differentiation occurred upstream of the REST gene, a transcriptional repressor that blocks neurogenesis. We also demonstrate how this method can be used to discover RNA elements and discuss applications of screening polymorphisms for allelic differences in binding.
On Navigating Despair: Reports from Psycho- therapists

The few writers who address the issue of how psychotherapists experience and respond to hopelessness as it arises in their work emphasize the importance of exploring this reality because of its vexing centrality. However, there are no qualitative studies of despair from therapists’ point of view. In order to study this neglected phenomenon empirically, in-depth interviews were conducted with experienced psychotherapists and descriptions were elicited from beginning therapists through a creative writing workshop. Confronting hopelessness typically brought even seasoned psychotherapists to a place of vulnerability and uncertainty. And yet it was also evident that they had specific therapeutic ways of responding to this challenge, such as viewing hopelessness as an experience that may reflect significant transition. The implications of the findings of this study with regard to the practice of psychotherapy, supervision, and education are discussed.
DHHC9 and GCP16 Constitute a Human Protein Fatty Acyltransferase with Specificity for H- and N-Ras

Covalent lipid modifications mediate the membrane attachment and biological activity of Ras proteins. All Ras isoforms are farnesylated and carboxyl-methylated at the terminal cysteine; H-Ras and N-Ras are further modified by palmitoylation. Yeast Ras is palmitoylated by the DHHC cysteine-rich domain-containing protein Erf2 in a complex with Erf4. Here we report that H- and N-Ras are palmitoylated by a human protein palmitoyltransferase encoded by the ZDHHC9 and GCP16 genes. DHHC9 is an integral membrane protein that contains a DHHC cysteine-rich domain. GCP16 encodes a Golgi-localized membrane protein that has limited sequence similarity to yeast Erf4. DHHC9 and GCP16 codistribute in the Golgi apparatus, a location consistent with the site of mammalian Ras palmitoylation in vivo. Like yeast Erf2·Erf4, DHHC9 and GCP16 form a protein complex, and DHHC9 requires GCP16 for protein fatty acyltransferase activity and protein stability. Purified DHHC9·GCP16 exhibits substrate specificity, palmitoylating H- and N-Ras but not myristoylated G αi1 or GAP-43, proteins with N-terminal palmitoylation motifs. Hence, DHHC9·GCP16 displays the properties of a functional human ortholog of the yeast Ras palmitoyltransferase.
Solutions of Reynolds-averaged Navier-stokes equations for three-dimensional incompressible flows

Abstract A general numerical method for the solution of complete Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations for three-dimensional flows is described. The method uses nonorthogonal body-fitted coordinates, generated either analytically or numerically, while retaining the velocity components in a triply-orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system. The convective transport equations for mean velocities and turbulence parameters (k, e) are solved by the finite-analytic method in the transformed domain. The pressure field is updated using a modified version of the SIMPLER algorithm to satisfy the equation of continuity. The capability of the method and its overall performance are demonstrated by calculations of the flow over a typical ship hull.
Estimation of Absolute Free Energies of Hydration Using Continuum Methods: Accuracy of Partial Charge Models and Optimization of Nonpolar Contributions.

Absolute free energies of hydration (ΔGhyd) for more than 500 neutral and charged compounds have been computed, using Poisson−Boltzmann (PB) and Generalized Born (GB) continuum methods plus a solvent-accessible surface area (SA) term, to evaluate the accuracy of eight simple point-charge models used in molecular modeling. The goal is to develop improved procedures and protocols for protein−ligand binding calculations and virtual screening (docking). The best overall PBSA and GBSA results, in comparison with experimental ΔGhyd values for small molecules, were obtained using MSK, RESP, or ChelpG charges obtained from ab initio calculations using 6-31G* wave functions. Correlations using semiempirical (AM1BCC, AM1CM2, and PM3CM2) or empirical (Gasteiger-Marsili and MMFF94) methods yielded mixed results, particularly for charged compounds. For neutral compounds, the AM1BCC method yielded the best agreement with experimental results. In all cases, the PBSA and GBSA results are highly correlated (overall r2 = 0...
"Medical high risk" designation is not associated with survival after carotid artery stenting.

Background While medical high risk (MHR) has been proposed as an indication for carotid artery stenting (CAS), the impact of MHR on long-term survival and stroke after CAS has not been described. Methods A retrospective chart review of CAS procedures at our institution was performed. One hundred seventy-nine consecutive patients who underwent 196 CAS procedures were classified by MHR status based on cardiac, pulmonary, and renal criteria routinely used in high-risk clinical trials. Survival and stroke rates were compared after 90 CAS procedures in MHR patients vs 106 CAS procedures in normal risk patients. Survival results were also compared with 365 contemporaneous carotid endarterectomy (CEA) procedures in 346 patients. Results The mean age of CAS patients was 72 years, with 87% having a smoking history, 85% hypertension, 38% diabetes, 39% symptomatic, and 74% documented coronary artery disease. Mean follow-up was 23 months. Recurrent stenosis after CEA comprised 21% of all CAS procedures. During the 30-day post-procedure period, there were five minor strokes, one major stroke, and one death, for a combined stroke/death rate of 3.6%. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated mortality of 5% at 1 year and 21% at 3 years for the entire cohort. Cox regression analysis found that MHR designation was not associated with increased mortality or an increase in a composite end point of death or stroke. MHR patients had mortality of 4% at 1 year and 22% at 3 years. Normal risk patients had mortality of 6% at 1 year and 20% at 3 years. Preoperative age over 80 years old, low density lipoprotein (LDL) ≥160 mg/dL, and serum creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL conferred statistically significant risk for death (Hazard ratios: 2.9, 4.3, and 2.4, respectively). As a point of comparison, a contemporaneous group of CEA patients were analyzed similarly. After adjusting for age over 80 years old and serum creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL, there was no survival difference between MHR patients undergoing CAS or CEA. Conclusions The presence of MHR did not impact long-term survival or stroke rate after CAS, and overall survival of MHR patients in our series was comparable with risk-adjusted controls undergoing CEA. These results suggest the need for more refined predictors of medical risk to optimally guide patients in selecting carotid revascularization strategies.
Effect of pinealectomy, binding, castration and melatonin on nerve growth factor levels in the submaxillary glands of mice.

Abstract The effects of blinding alone or in combination with pinealectomy, castration and melatonin treatment on nerve growth factor (NGF) in submaxillary glands of mice were tested. Both pinealectomy and melatonin (placed subcutaneously in beeswax) treatment caused a marked reduction in NGF specific biological activity, esterase activity, and β-protein recovered from the submaxillary glands. Castrated mice also exhibited depressed levels of NGF in the salivary glands.
Purification and characterizaton of two distinct Ca2+-activated proteinases from hearts of hypertensive rats

Two distinct Ca2+-activated proteinases were purified and characterized from hearts of hypertensive rats. Ca2+-activated proteinases I and II, having low and high Ca2+ requirements, respectively, were first separated by DEAE-cellulose chromatography. The enzymes were then purified individually by different column procedures: chromatography on phenyl-Sepharose, then Sephadex G-200 for proteinase I and reactive-red agarose for proteinase II. The apparent molecular weight of purified proteinase I was 125 000 and that for purified proteinase II was 110 000. Both enzymes are heterodimers made up of a larger catalytic subunit and a smaller subunit devoid of proteinase activity. Ca2+ concentrations for half-maximal activation were 5 microM for proteinase I and 200 microM for proteinase II. Both enzymes were inhibited by sulfhydryl-modifying agents, but exhibited different characteristics in the auto-digestion reaction in the presence of Ca2+. Proteinases I and II were also purified from hearts of normotensive rats and shown to be identical to their respective counterparts from hearts of hypertensive rats. However, proteinase II activity in hypertensive rat hearts was significantly elevated as compared to controls.
Modified standard office equipment for Braille translation and embossing

Either inkprint or braille can be produced with an IBM Magnetic Card SELECTRIC (R) Typewriter equipped with a read-only translation circuitry and an embosser. Embossing is done on the front side of the paper so the operator can read the information as it is embossed. Information entered at the standard keyboard and recorded on a magnetic card can be played back in both inkprint and braille. The same embosser may be used on other machines with removable type balls, such as the IBM 2741 Communication Terminal Communication Terminal.
Cell density-enhanced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in murine macrophages mediated by interferon-β

Nitric oxide (NO) has an important cytotoxic role in host defense processes against invading microorganisms and neoplastic cells. Here we demonstrate the effect of culture density on the expression of NO synthase and NO production by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. At high cell densities, the LPS-induced expression of iNOS message, protein, and activity is markedly enhanced. We demonstrate the effects to be mediated by a diffusible macrophage product. Increasing cell density correlates with activation of IFN-dependent signaling pathways. We observe enhanced phosphorylation of STAT-1 on tyrosine 701 and serine 727, and an increase in STAT-1 DNA binding. Expression of the IFN-stimulated transcription factor IRF-1 is also enhanced. The data are consistent with the reported involvement of IFN-β as an autocrine co-activator of iNOS expression. Considering the importance of NO as a cytotoxic mediator of host immunity, the data suggest that macrophage density is important in regulating the magnitude of NO production, and thus, the host response to infection.
Orbital imaging techniques

In the past 20 years, CT and MR imaging have emerged as the primary modalities for the evaluation of orbital disease. One can safely say that plain films have no role in the detailed evaluation of disorders of this morphological area. Given the bony enclosure, small size, soft tissue and fat content of this region, as well as globe movement, obtaining high-quality images of the orbit can be technically challenging. Our aim in this article, is to provide specific parameters for properly evaluating the orbit with CT and MRI.
The chemical mechanism for electron transfer and bridge reducibility

Abstract One limiting mechanism proposed for bridged inner-sphere, electron transfer reactions, the chemical mechanism, involves rate-limiting reduction of the bridge to a radical by the reducing centre followed by rapid reduction of the oxidizing centre by the radical bridge. One predicted kinetic trait of such reactions is a correlation between the electron transfer rate constant and the “reducibility” of the bridge. This predicted trend is quantified here for the first time, with bridge reducibility expressed in terms of adiabatic gas-phase electron affinities. Also, a new kinetic test to distinguish outer-sphere electron transfers from those proceeding the chemical mechanism is shown to develop from the dependence of the rate constant on electron affinity.
Higher energy excitons in polypeptide films

Optical transmission spectra of polypeptide films showing exciton structure near 1600 A for alpha and polyproline II helices
Electrically Heatable Windshield and Backlite System

A new quick-defrost system for automotive use has been developed as an option for the 1974 T-Bird and Mark IV carlines. It can defrost the heated area of the windshield and backlite within 3.5-5 minutes under standard test conditions at 0 degree F. The system evolved from aircraft defrost applications. A summary of the development work required in power sources, power levels, product and process requirements, and quality standards is presented.
An analog computer study of a torsional vibrations problem

TORSIONAL VIBRATION studies of simple mechanical systems are usually handled by methods which, while not difficult, often require the expenditure of considerable time when done by hand. The use of a digital computer shortens the time considerably. One method frequently used is the Holzer table calculations1 resulting in the determination of the natural frequencies of the system. Another method is a matrix solution of the differential equations of the system.
Brief communication: The challenge of annotating protein sequences: The tale of eight domains of unknown function in Pfam

The Pfam database is an important tool in genome annotation, since it provides a collection of curated protein families. However, a subset of these families, known as domains of unknown function (DUFs), remains poorly characterized. We have related sequences from DUF404, DUF407, DUF482, DUF608, DUF810, DUF853, DUF976 and DUF1111 to homologs in PDB, within the midnight zone (9-20%) of sequence identity. These relationships were extended to provide functional annotation by sequence analysis and model building. Also described are examples of residue plasticity within enzyme active sites, and change of function within homologous sequences of a DUF.
The Impact of Interactions with Providers on Stroke Caregivers' Needs

Purpose Preparation for caregiving is improved through engaged interactions between stroke family caregivers and healthcare providers throughout the care trajectory. We explored caregivers' perceptions about interactions with providers in rehabilitation, and how these experiences affected caregiver preparation. Design Seventeen caregivers, included in this grounded theory study, were interviewed during a rehabilitation stay and postdischarge. Data were analyzed using dimensional and comparative analysis. Findings Caregivers described interactions with providers on a continuum from collaborative to disconnected, and a range of strategies to enhance interactions. Conclusions Caregivers want to be actively engaged with providers during inpatient rehabilitation and collaborative interactions enhance preparedness and care satisfaction. Relevance Family members should be assessed for caregiving capacity and interactions between providers and caregivers should be individualized to specific needs. Providers must also be aware that many caregivers are not active information seekers. They must engage caregivers who may not even know what questions to ask.
On the complexity of deciding bimatrix games similarity

In this paper, we show that it is NP-complete to decide whether two bimatrix games share a common Nash equilibrium. Furthermore, it is co-NP-hard to decide whether two bimatrix games have exactly the same set of Nash equilibria.
Effects of social and economic factors on four-year higher-education enrollments in Virginia

Based on human capital theory, the demand for higher education is investigated within a statewide system. A multiple regression approach is applied to data that measure the following by geographic municipality (i.e., county or city): the ratio of high school graduates enrolled in a given institution to that institution's entering freshman enrollment (dependent variable); eligible population, academic ability, educational attainment, income level, wage rate, unemployment rate, cost of attendance, and local environment (independent variables). Using the SAS GLM procedure, various breakdowns of the demand function by institutional grouping are presented. Squared multiple correlations for the various models range from .3 to .5.
Electrolyte for Laminated Polymer Lithium Rechargeable Battery

ABSTRACT Proposed thin film battery is comprised of a polymerlithium ion cell material with barrier-layer packaging and mechanical reinforcing layers. A semi-solid/ solid electrolyte and a mesoporous polymer separator are sandwiched in between of anode and cathode. A composite film with a carbon nanotube (CNT) network serves as the anode and a mesoporous transitional metal oxide Li x CoO 2 as the cathode, where porous metal sheets serve as the current collector. The CNT network fabrics have high in-plane tensile strength. LiCoO 2 is used as the cathode, because the Co atoms do not migrate to Li layers, so that cathode does not generate flammable gases during charging that create safety problems. Merit of this study is using the porous metal sheet, which is flexible, lightweight, low electric resistance, high strength and strong stability in alkaline solution. This paper presented development of electrolyte for laminated polymer lithium rechargeable battery. Two-type electrolytes, semi-solid and solid, were attempted; high ionic conductivity of Li ion electrolytes was achieved. Keywords: electrolyte, polymerlithium ion battery, porous metal sheet, gel electrolyte
ORTHOTOPIC URINARY DIVERSION WITH PRESERVATION OF ERECTILE AND EJACULATORY FUNCTION IN MEN REQUIRING RADICAL CYSTECTOMY FOR NONUROTHELIAL MALIGNANCY: A NEW TECHNIQUE

AbstractPurpose: Nerve sparing techniques to preserve sexual function in men undergoing cystoprostatectomy have been well documented. The patient who desires to remain fertile with ejaculatory function poses an additional challenge. We describe a new technique for radical cystectomy and orthotopic diversion with preservation of the vasa deferentia, seminal vesicles, posterior prostate and neurovascular bundles.Materials and Methods: Four men with a median age of 26 years presented with bladder pathology necessitating cystectomy, including signet ring carcinoma of the bladder dome, leiomyosarcoma of the anterior bladder wall, leiomyosarcoma of the lateral bladder wall, and extensive polypoid cystitis glandularis of the trigone and posterior wall refractory to conservative and transurethral management. All patients wished to maintain fertility and ejaculatory function. We detail the surgical technique of extirpation of the bladder and anterior proximal prostate en bloc with preservation of the vasa deferent...
Finite element analysis of a novel design approach to resisting total hip dislocation.

Abstract Objective. A new design concept has been developed to reduce the propensity for dislocation in total hip patients. The ability of this design to increase the stability of the hip joint is studied. Design. The new design involves a convex-curved acetabular lip, extending from the hemispherical articulating surface to the outer edge of the cup. The femoral component has a matching, reverse curve. Background. Dislocation is a continuing problem in total hip arthroplasty, a complication experienced by 2–11% of patients with primary surgeries, and much higher percentage of patients in revision series. Confounding factors and sources of variability in the clinical domain make it difficult to identify specific parameter influences. Methods. A three-dimensional nonlinear finite element model has been developed for the purpose of studying the dislocation event. We report the first use of this finite element model to analyze the potential for improving hip stability by a new total hip component design concept. Results. The results show that this new design achieves 28% more resisting moment build-up during dislocation, and has a higher range of motion from impingement to onset of subluxation. The new curved lip design also develops 50% less polyethylene von Mises stress in the impingement zone. Conclusions. This design has excellent potential for increasing the inherent stability of the total hip joint. Relevance Recurrent dislocation is the second leading cause of total hip failure next to late loosening. This study shows the potential of a new total hip design to increase the stability of the artificial hip joint.
In-plane photonic transduction of silicon-on-insulator microcantilevers

We demonstrate an in-plane photonic transduction method for microcantilevers, which have been widely investigated for sensor applications. In our approach the microcantilever is etched to form a single mode rib waveguide. Light propagates down the microcantilever and crosses a small gap at the free end of the microcantilever, some of which is captured by an asymmetrical multimode waveguide that terminates in a Y-branch. The Y-branch outputs are used to form a differential signal that is monotonically dependent on microcantilever deflection. The measured differential signal matches simulation when microcantilever rotation is properly accounted for. The measured differential signal sensitivity is 1.4×10-4 nm-1 and the minimum detectable deflection is 0.35 nm.
DUCHENNE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY IN YOUNG GIRLS

Four cases (three sporadic, one familial) of muscular dystrophy (MD) in young girls are presented. The clinical picture was similar to Duchenne MD with onset around two years of age, muscle weakness of pelvic girdle, pseudohypertrophy of the calves (2 cases), contractures of Achilles tendons. Later on, weakness of shoulder girdle and neck flexors developed. Progression was slow. Electrocardiogram was normal in all cases. Buccal smear was positive and serum creatine phosphokinase was high in all cases. Histological biopsy findings (vastus lateralis) were typical for muscular dystrophy with extensive proliferation of endomysial connective tissue. In vitro amino acid incorporation of muscle ribosomes (vastus lateralis) revealed a sixfold increase in the activity of total polyribosomes. Both collagen and noncollagen synthesis of the heavy polyribosomes were significantly increased in all patients. Supplementation of these polyribosomes with normal muscle soluble enzymes restored the synthesis of collagen to control values in one case. The ribosomal findings in our cases are very similar to those found in male Duchenne MD and suggest they might belong to its autosomal recessive variant.
Ethics and Irony

It seems to me that the analysis of governmentality that is to say: the analysis of power as an ensemble of reversible relations must refer itself to an ethic of the subject defined by the relation of the self to itself. This means very simply that, in the type of analysis that I have tried to propose to you for a certain time, that relations of power governmentality, government of the self and others, relations of the self to itself all ?his constitutes a chain, a weave, and it is there, around these notions that one ought to be able, I think, to articulate the question of politics and the question of ethics. (Foucault 2001: 241-42)
Confocal microendoscopic 3D imaging using MEMS scanners for both lateral and axial scans

A fiber-optic confocal microendoscope with MEMS scanners for both lateral and axial scan is presented. The MEMS 3D scan engine achieves a lateral scan range of over ± 26° with a 2D MEMS mirror and a depth scan of over 400 μm with a 1D MEMS tunable lens. Both 2D and 3D confocal images of micro-particles and acute rat brain tissue have been obtained.
Xanthorhodopsin: Proton pump with a carotenoid antenna

Retinal proteins function as photoreceptors and ion pumps. Xanthorhodopsin of Salinibacter ruber is a recent addition to this diverse family. Its novel and distinctive feature is a second chromophore, a carotenoid, which serves as light-harvesting antenna. Here we discuss the properties of this carotenoid/retinal complex most relevant to its function (such as the specific binding site controlled by the retinal) and its relationship to other retinal proteins (bacteriorhodopsin, archaerhodopsin, proteorhodopsin and retinal photoreceptors of archaea and eukaryotes). Antenna addition to a retinal protein has not been observed among the archaea and emerged in bacteria apparently in response to environmental conditions where light-harvesting becomes a limiting factor in retinal protein functioning.
Effects of acetylsalicylic acid on electromechanical activity ofin vivo rabbit ileum

Aspirin has antisecretory and ulcerogenic properties in the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on the electrical and mechanical activity of the ileum in anesthetized New Zealand White rabbits. Ileal electromechanical activity was recorded from serosal electrodes and a miniature intraluminal balloon. Thirty minutes after injection of ASA (30, 60 and 100 mg/kg intravenous) significant and dose-dependent increases in the percentage of slow waves with action potentials were observed when compared with saline-injected animals. The onset of action potentials correlated with phasic increases in intraluminal pressure, indicating the onset of circular muscle contractions. Injection of 15 mg/kg ASA, sodium salicylate (100 mg/kg intravenous) or saline had no effect on baseline action potential activity. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)(5 and 10 μ g/kg intravenous) significantly increased slow-wave frequency and decreased ASA-induced action potential activity. This study demonstrates that (1) ASA, but not sodium salicylate, stimulates phasic ileal action potential and contractile activity and (2) in ASA-treated animals, PGE2produces differential effects on in vivoslow-wave frequency and action potential activity.
Use of additional electrocardiograph leads in low-risk patients undergoing exercise treadmill testing.

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that the addition of right precordial and left posterior leads to the standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) can significantly improve the sensitivity of exercise treadmill testing (ETT) for the diagnosis of myocardial ischemia. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the value of adding 2 rightsided (RV3, RV4) and 2 left posterior (V8, V9) auxiliary leads to enhance detection of myocardial ischemia in patients with chest pain identified as low risk. METHODS: The authors conducted a prospective study of all patients undergoing ETT as part of their management in a chest pain evaluation unit (CPEU) at a tertiary medical center from November 1999 to November 2001. Patients were considered low risk for acute coronary syndrome based on the clinical presentation to the CPEU, absence of ischemia on resting ECG, and negative initial cardiac markers. Diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) was based on confirmatory testing, which included coronary angiography, myocardial stress scintigraphy, exercise echocardiography, or 30-day follow-up period. RESULTS: The study cohort comprised 705 patients who underwent 16-lead ETT. Of these, 70 (10%) had positive ETT and CAD was confirmed by further evaluation in 26. ECG changes positive for ischemia were demonstrated on the standard 12-lead exercise ECG in 68 patients. An additional 2 patients had positive ECG alterations only in the 4 auxiliary leads on the 16-lead ECG. There was no significant difference in the sensitivity or positive predictive value between the 12- and 16-lead exercise ECG. CONCLUSION: Electrocardiographic changes in auxiliary leads did not change the diagnostic use of the ETT and therefore may provide only a minimal contribution to the assessment of the low-risk CPEU population.
Investigation of changes in characteristics of hydrological time series by Bayesian methods

A review of literature reveals the inadequacy of Intervention analysis and spectrum based methods to adequately quantify changes in hydrologic times series. A Bayesian method is used to investigate the statistical significance of observed changes in hydrologic times series and the results are reported herein. The Bayesian method is superior to the previous methods.
The tricho‐rhino‐phalangeal syndrome with exostoses (or Langer‐Giedion syndrome): Four additional patients without mental retardation and review of the literature

We report on four patients with tricho-rhino-phalangeal syndrome with exostoses (TRPSE) who were not mentally retarded and review 32 previously published cases. These data enable more complete delineation of the phenotype and document the variability of the clinical and radiographic manifestations. Information on the genetics and the association with del(8q) is discussed, as are management and avenues for further investigation. The apparent variability of intelligence in TRPSE patients together with the high incidence of other problems, including significant delay in speech development and hearing loss, make systematic multidisciplinary evaluation and long-term treatment necessary to achieve the best outcome.
Acquired Pial Arteriovenous Fistula Following Cerebral Vein Thrombosis

Background—We report a unique case of an acquired pial arteriovenous fistula occurring after an asymptomatic thrombosis of a superficial cerebral vein. Case Description—A cerebral angiogram performed in a 51-year-old man with subarachnoid hemorrhage revealed a 10-mm ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm and a thrombosed left superficial middle cerebral vein. Coil embolization of the anterior communicating aneurysm was performed. Follow-up angiography 18 months later revealed a new, asymptomatic, pial arteriovenous fistula between the previously thrombosed left superficial middle cerebral vein and a small sylvian branch of the left middle cerebral artery. Conclusions—This case provides evidence that pial arteriovenous fistulas may develop as acquired lesions and furthermore may rarely follow cerebral vein thrombosis. Several cases of dural arteriovenous fistulas, as well as a single case of a mixed pial-dural arteriovenous fistula, occurring after dural sinus thrombosis have been reported previou...
Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Older Adults in Primary Care: How Do We Get the Job Done?

Most elderly persons in the United States with mental health problems such as depression receive no attention or care. Those who receive treatment generally do so in primary care settings, where disorders like depression have a hard time competing with other common and chronic medical problems. Typically, mental illnesses are under-recognized and under-treated in elderly persons attending primary care clinics. The experience of the PROSPECT (Prevention of Suicide in Primary Care Elderly: Collaborative Trial) study is briefly described, indicating that depression, for example, can be treated successfully in primary care elderly using the type of multidisciplinary collaborative care model advocated by Speer and Schneider (2003; this issue). The challenge now facing all of us is to create a consumer- and family-driven demand for good mental health services in geriatric clinics and a political consensus to reimburse such services fairly. Recent improvement in Medicare reimbursement for mental health services to victims of Alzheimer's dementia provides a basis for hope.
Weekly topotecan in heavily pretreated patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma

Abstract Objective To investigate weekly topotecan in heavily pretreated patients with recurrent ovarian cancer. Methods The records of patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer who were treated with weekly topotecan after failure of ≥1 prior regimen were reviewed. Patients received topotecan (median starting dose ∼2.5 mg/m 2 ) on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. Antitumor response was assessed after 2 cycles by serial CA-125 levels. Results Thirty-five heavily pretreated patients received a mean of 5 cycles of topotecan (range, 1–13 cycles). Thirty-two patients had definable platinum sensitivity (16 sensitive, 8 resistant, 8 refractory). Median age was 56 years. A total of 177 cycles (534 weeks) of topotecan was administered. Hematologic toxicity was generally mild, and no grade 4 toxicities were observed. Grade 3 hematologic toxicity, including leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia, was observed in 2, 2, 1, and 0 patients, respectively. No patients experienced grade 3 or 4 nonhematologic toxicity. Based on serial CA-125 measurements, there were 1 (3%) complete and 5 (15%) partial responses, with 1 of the partial responses in a patient with platinum-refractory disease. Stable disease was reported in 13 (38%) patients, including 5 patients with platinum-resistant/refractory disease. Conclusion Weekly topotecan demonstrates activity and is well tolerated compared with historical data with the standard 5-day schedule. Higher doses may be warranted because of the high tolerability shown for weekly topotecan. Weekly topotecan may be an appropriate treatment option for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer, especially heavily pretreated patients who might require dosing schedules with improved tolerability.
‘Savage Blonde’: Willa Cather and the Making of an American Musician

Willa Cather's fiction devotes extraordinary attention to music and musicians – more, perhaps, than any other American fiction writer. This article explores how Thea Kronborg, the diva-heroine of Song of the Lark, reflects emerging notions of American music at the turn of the 20th century, particularly those that rest on references to and transcriptions of African or Native American music. I argue that the development of Thea's musicality enacts a form of embodied transcription that both reveals and conceals the ‘folk’ musicality it claims to represent.
Core and Penumbral Nitric Oxide Synthase Activity During Cerebral Ischemia and Reperfusion

Background and Purpose—The present studies examined the hypothesis that the distribution of cerebral injury after a focal ischemic insult is associated with the regional distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity. Methods—Based on previous studies that certain anatomically well-defined areas are prone to become either core or penumbra after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), we measured NOS activity in these areas from the right and left hemispheres in a spontaneously hypertensive rat filament model. Four groups were studied: (1) controls (immediate decapitation); (2) 1.5 hours of MCAO with no reperfusion (R0); (3) 1.5 hours of MCAO with 0.5 hour of reperfusion (R0.5); and (4) 1.5 hours of MCAO with 24 hours of reperfusion (R24). Three groups of corresponding isoflurane sham controls were also included: 1.5 (S1.5) or 2 (S2.0) hours of anesthesia and 1.5 hours of anesthesia+24 hours of observation (S24). Results—Control core NOS activity for combined right and left hemispheres was 129% grea...