cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hydraulic dissection technique during endoscopic sinus surgery using a novel balloon sinus dilation device

Background More than a decade after its introduction, some rhinologic surgeons have incorporated the technique of balloon sinus dilation (BSD) technology into "hybrid" endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) procedures. A novel BSD device which can be placed over standard surgical instruments, including surgical navigation instruments, has recently been introduced. We present a case series in which this device was used as a hydraulic dissection tool to aid safe efficient surgery in difficult-to-access locations of the paranasal sinuses during hybrid ESS procedures. Objective Highlight the potential role of hydraulic dissection techniques during ESS utilizing BSD. Methods Retrospective case series of patients who underwent ESS performed in part with a novel BSD device. Results A total of 10 patients who underwent hybrid ESS with BSD were reviewed. In all 10 cases, the novel BSD device was used without complication. The device was used over straight and curved suctions while being tracked with surgical navigation in all cases. Thirteen posterior ethmoid dissections, 12 sphenoidotomies, and 8 frontal sinusotomies were assisted with the device. For the selected dissections in which the balloon was utilized, the operating surgeon found it to be helpful in creating more space in difficult to access areas which allowed for continued safe surgical dissection. Conclusions Sinus balloon devices can be used as a hydraulic dissection tool and may be a useful adjunct during ESS. The novel dilation system used in this study, which deploys a sinus balloon device over standard surgical instruments with surgical navigation, provides even more opportunity to accurately dissect difficult areas of the paranasal sinuses safely and efficiently. Further studies evaluating the exact role of sinus balloon devices used as a hydraulic dissection tool during ESS are warranted. Level of Evidence 4.
Unresolved issues in distractor suppression: Proactive and reactive mechanisms, implicit learning, and naturalistic distraction

We acknowledge the empirical and theoretical advancements described within Luck et al. and commend the integration of viewpoints on the debate over attentional capture by salient distractors. Our c...
How to construct self-delimiting Turing machines: the Kraft inequality

In this chapter I’ll present a very general technique, which I’ll call Kraft, for constructing self-delimiting computers by generating their input/output graphs. This is our most basic tool. We’ll use it many times: over and over again in what’s left of Part II and in Part III. In fact, using this technique is at the heart of the next two chapters, it’s really what these two chapters are about.
Comments and Suggestions for Further Reading

Much of the impetus for research on the mathematical foundations of thermodynamics during the past twenty years was created by the rapid development during the previous twenty years of the non-linear field theories of mechanics. That development provided a conceptual framework for the formulation of “constitutive equations,” relations which distinguish one material from another. The study of a variety of new constitutive equations together with the view that the laws of thermodynamics should place restrictions on the new equations led to the discovery of systematic procedures for finding such restrictions. In a relatively short time, these procedures were widely used, although not always without reservation. In fact, the new procedures required that one use concepts such as absolute temperature, internal energy, and entropy in contexts where traditional thermodynamics could not in any obvious way provide justification. The need to interpret these concepts for materials lying outside the scope of classical treatments, particularly for materials whose present state can depend in a non-trivial way on the entire past history of the material, was the main force behind the modern work on the foundations of thermodynamics. Many of the developments in the non-linear field theories of mechanics during the twenty years following World War II are described in great depth in the article by Truesdell and Noll [1].
The Preprocessed Doacross Loop

Dependencies between loop iterations cannot always be characterized during program compilation. Doacross loops typically make use of a-priori knowledge of inter-iteration dependencies to carry out required synchronizations. A type of doacross loop is proposed that allows the scheduling of iterations of a loop among processors without advance knowledge of inter-iteration dependencies. The method proposed for loop iterations requires that parallelizable preprocessing and postprocessing steps be carried out during program execution.
An investigation of the relationships between mountain-wave conditions and clear air turbulence encountered by the XB-70 airplane in the stratosphere

XB-70 aircraft for investigating and predictory xB-70 aircraft for investigating and predicting mountain waves
n- p Triple-Scattering Parameter D t at 197 MeV

The $n\ensuremath{-}p$ triple-scattering parameter ${D}_{t}$ has been measured at 197 MeV at three angles. The measurements were made by bombarding a liquid-deuterium target with polarized protons, and spin-analyzing high-energy neutrons recoiling into forward angles. Spin analysis was accomplished by a charge-exchange scattering on C${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$. The measurements are related to the ${D}_{t}$ parameter for free $n\ensuremath{-}p$ scattering through an impulse-approximation calculation which includes the $s$-wave final-state interaction between the incident proton and the proton in the deuteron. Values obtained for the free $\mathrm{np} {D}_{t}$ parameter are: +0.095\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.068, -0.014\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.071, and +0.058\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.103 at free $n\ensuremath{-}p$ center-of-mass scattering angles of 147.4\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, and 126.9\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, respectively. These values are compared with the phase-shift solutions YLAN of Breit and collaborators, and the energy-independent solution of Arndt and MacGregor. Solutions YLAN 0, 1, 2, 2M, 3, and the Arndt-MacGregor solution do not agree with the data. Solutions YLAN 3M and 4M fit the data quite well.
Conservation of myeloid surface antigens on primate granulocytes

Monoclonal antibodies reactive with myeloid cell surface antigens were used to study evolutionary changes in granulocyte surface antigens from primate species. Certain of these granulocyte membrane antigens are conserved in phylogenetically distant species, indicating the potential functional importance of these structures. The degree of conservation of these antigens reflects the phylogenetic relationship between primate species. Furthermore, species of the same genus show similar patterns of binding to this panel of anti-human myeloid antibodies. This finding of conserved granulocyte surface antigens suggests that non-human primates may provide a model system for exploring uses of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of human myeloid disorders.
Advances in Retinal Stem Cell Biology

Tremendous progress has been made in recent years to generate retinal cells from pluripotent cell sources. These advances provide hope for those suffering from blindness due to lost retinal cells. Understanding the intrinsic genetic network in model organisms, like fly and frog, has led to a better understanding of the extrinsic signaling pathways necessary for retinal progenitor cell formation in mouse and human cell cultures. This review focuses on the culture methods used by different groups, which has culminated in the generation of laminated retinal tissue from both embryonic and induced pluripotent cells. The review also briefly describes advances made in transplantation studies using donor retinal progenitor and cultured retinal cells.
The synthesis of 1-(2-dialkylaminoethyl)-5 (and 6)-methoxy-2-methyl (and H)-benzimidazoles†

The syntheses of twenty 1-(2-dialkylaminoethyl)-5 (and 6)-methoxy-2-methyl (and H)-benzimidazoles in which the dialkylamino groups are dimethylamino, diethylamino, pyrrolidino, piperidino and morpholino, are presented. These compounds failed to show any significant biological activity.
Regulation of cholesterol-7α-hydroxylase: BAREly missing a SHP

Cholesterol-7alpha-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) regulates the pathway through which cholesterol is converted into bile acids. The unique detergent properties of bile acids are essential for the digestion and intestinal absorption of hydrophobic nutrients. Bile acids have potent toxic properties (e.g., membrane disruption) and there are a plethora of mechanisms to limit their accumulation in blood and tissues. The discovery of farnesoid X receptor (FXR), the nuclear receptor activated specifically by bile acids, has opened new insights into these mechanisms. Bile acid activation of FXR has been shown to repress the expression of CYP7A1 via increasing the expression of small heterodimer partner (SHP), a non-DNA binding protein. The increased abundance of SHP causes it to associate with liver receptor homolog (LRH)-1, an obligate factor required for transcription of CYP7A1. Recent studies show there is an "FXR/SHP-independent" mechanism that also represses CYP7A1 expression. This "FXR/SHP-independent" pathway involves the interaction of bile acids with liver macrophages (i.e., Kupffer cells), which induces the expression, and secretion of cytokines. These inflammatory cytokines, which include tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1beta, act upon liver parenchymal cells causing a rapid repression of the CYP7A1 gene.
Strictly bounded realness and stability testing of 2-D recursive digital filters

An algorithm is presented for stability testing of 2-D recursive digital filters. The algorithm is based on the Schur-Cohn test for zero locations of 1-D complex coefficient polynomials. The authors' derivation for 2-D stability testing is algebraic in nature. It is shown that the stability testing of 2-D recursive digital filters is equivalent to strictly bounded realness of a certain 1-D rational matrix. Furthermore, it is known that a given 1-D rational matrix is strictly bounded real if and only if there exists a minimal realization such that its system matrix is a strict contraction. The realization can be obtained by solving an algebraic Riccati equation if the system is strictly bounded real. Hence, the stability of 2-D recursive digital filters amounts to the solvability of a certain algebraic Riccati equation. >
Effect of ammonium on the regulation of nitrate and nitrite transport systems in roots of intact barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seedlings

The effect of NH 4 + on the regulation of NO 3 − and NO 2 − transport systems in roots of intact barley (Hordeum vulgareL.) seedlings grown in NO 3 − or NO 2 − was studied. Ammonium partially inhibited “induction” of both transport systems. The inhibition was less severe in NO 2 − -fed than in NO 3 − -fed seedlings, presumably due to lower uptake of NH 4 + in the presence of NO 2 − . In seedlings pretreated with NH 4 + subsequent “induction” was inhibited only when NH 4 + was also present during “induction”, even though pretreated roots accumulated high levels of NH 4 + . This indicates that inhibition may be regulated by NH 4 + concentration in the cytoplasm rather than its total accumulation in roots. L-Methionine sulfoximine did not relieve the inhibition by NH 4 + , suggesting that inhibition is caused by NH 4 + itself rather than by its assimilation product(s). Ammonium inhibited subsequent expression of NO 3 − transport activity similarly in roots grown in 0.1, 1.0, or 10 mM NO 3 − for 24 h (steady-state phase) or 4 d (decline phase), indicating that it has a direct, rather than general feedback effect. “Induction” of the NO 3 − transport system was about twice as sensitive to NH 4 + as compared to the NO 2 − transport system. This may relate to higher turnover rates of membraneassociated NO 3 − -transport proteins.
A novel method for monitoring liver ablation using ultrasound elastography

Monitoring the ablation process in order to document the adequacy of margins during treatment is of significant importance. Observing that the ablation lesion is harder than normal tissue, it has been proposed to monitor the ablation using ultrasound elastography. Furthermore, it has been reported that the ablated cancer tumor is harder than ablated normal tissue. In this paper we propose an ultrasound elastography technique for visualizing the ablation lesion and the ablated cancerous tumor in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This work focuses on devising techniques to generate elasticity images which distinguish the ablated cancerous tumor and the ablated normal lesion. We first calculate the displacement field between two ultrasound images acquired before and after some compression. We then use the displacement field to calculate the correlation coefficient between the two images. Parts of the tissue that undergo large deformation give small correlation coefficient due to decorrelation within each window, and parts of the tissue that undergo small deformation give large correlation coefficient. Simulating phantoms with two lesions, a harder tumor inside a hard lesion, using finite element and Field II, we show that this method enables delineating the tumor from the lesion.
Hyperconjugation: the electronic mechanism that may underlie the Karplus curve of vicinal NMR indirect spin couplings

The electronic origin of the Karplus-type behavior of vicinal NMR J couplings for H 3 X-C 2 H 4 -XH 3 , X = C, Sn model compound is analyzed within the framework of the polarization propagator formalism. It is shown that its whole pattern can be understood by generalizing previous hyperconjugative mechanisms, in such a way that the hyperconjugative delocalization effect from an excitation σ → σ* should be replaced by two simultaneous excitations according to a second-order electronic property. All and the main coupling pathway which involve, at the random phase level of approach, RPA, the two pairs of localized MOs closest to the coupled nuclei follows a Karplus-type dependence with dihedral X-C-C-X angle, θ. The specific two-electron integrals which include correlation at RPA level of approach are the main factors which define the total behavior of J. The Karplus-type dependence is also found at HF level for individual coupling pathways though that is not observed for the total J; the so-called nonlocal "perturbators" together with the inverse of the differences of energies define, at this level of approach, the functional dependence with θ.
Walk the Walk but Don't Talk the Talk: The Strategic Use of Color‐Blind Ideology in an Interracial Social Movement Organization

In this study, I examine the strategies interracial organizations use in the twenty-first century, where color-blind ideology dominates. Much theoretical work on racism examines how it has evolved during different historical periods, but this work does not address how these changing forms of racism affect social movement organizations, particularly those on the left. While the literature on color-blind ideology has examined how it is expressed by African Americans and European Americans separately, my work investigates how color-blind ideology operates when European Americans and people of color are working together in the same organizational setting. Studies of social movements have examined how organizational culture affects strategies but have neglected how external racist culture and color-blind ideology impacts organizational strategies. Findings from 3 years of ethnographic data collected on an interracial social movement organization and its corresponding coalition suggest that activists in interracial organizations use racism evasiveness strategically to maintain solidarity. I conceptualize racism evasiveness as the action resulting from color-blind ideology within a larger system of racism. While activists perceive advantages to these strategies, there are also long-term negative consequences. Without explicitly naming and addressing racism, progressive organizations may be limited in their ability to challenge systemic racism.
Further results on the design of optimal compensators using a minimal-order observer†

This paper reconsiders the problem of designing an optimal dynamic compensator based on a minimal-order Luenberger observer, for the regulation of an nth order linear time-invariant plant. The usual quadratic cost on the state and control is averaged over initial plant state values. Necessary conditions for the optimal compensator are obtained. An explicit solution is found which contradicts some previously published results.
Timeshare Owners' Perceptions and Preferred Ways of Participating in Tourism Planning

Timeshare owners are a special group of tourists who have additional connections with the tourism destination through their timeshare. The purpose of this study was to investigate timeshare owners' perceptions of participating in tourism planning and their preferred ways of participating. This study was based on a questionnaire survey of U.S. timeshare owners. A two-stage structural equation modeling approach was applied in the data analysis. Results from the measurement model suggested that the proposed model fit the data well. Results from the structural model suggested that timeshare owners' attitudes toward tourism planning and their perceived cost of participating in tourism planning significantly impacted their perceptions of participating in tourism planning. Timeshare owners preferred indirect participation methods over direct ones. In addition, Internet-based participation was the choice for many timeshare owners over traditional face-oriented or file-oriented participation modes.
Application of molecular modeling to the study of polymer electrolytes

Abstract Molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics simulations were applied to the study of ion-ion and ion-polymer interactions in PEO-based polymer electrolytes containing LiBr and ZnBr 2 . LiBr pairs, as well as unpaired Li + and Br − ions, were seen in the electrolytes containing LiBr, and ZnBr + ion pairs, ZnBr 2 neutral species, and Zn 2 Br + 3 clusters were found in the PEO/ZnBr 2 electrolytes. In both the PEO/LiBr and PEO/ZnBr 2 systems, ion association increased with increasing temperature and salt concentration. This study clearly demonstrates that molecular simulations can provide useful insight into the ion-ion and ion-polymer interactions and the ion conduction mechanisms in polymer electrolytes.
Fiesta as tradition, fiesta as change: ritual, alcohol and violence in a Mexican community

AIMS: To explore the traditional Mexican religious fiesta as a primary locus for community-based excessive drinking and violence against women. The research argues that the pattern of drinking and violence cannot be placed within explanations that tie a breakdown in social norms to drinking nor drinking to a breakdown in social norms. DESIGN: The data were gathered over 14 continuous months of participant observation in 1995 and 1996, followed by two summer research projects in 1997 and 1998. The researcher documented the activities of the participants at each fiesta and followed-up each event with interviews of the parties involved in violent confrontations. In addition, life stories and archival data on violence were conducted and used to situate current findings against historical data. SETTING: All data were collected in the community of Santa Maria Atzompa. Atzompa is a cabecera or municipal seat, for six colonias (large neighborhoods), and three ranchos (agriculturally based communities) and has a population of just over 5200. The main community of Atzompa, where most of the research was conducted, has a population of 2700+. PARTICIPANTS: Over 1000 individuals participated in community religious fiestas that the researcher attended. More than half of these were men, and almost all the men present participated in the binge drinking. MEASUREMENTS: Sixteen religious fiestas and 13 non-religious fiestas were documented through participant observation and photographs. FINDINGS: In every religious-based fiesta, violence erupted and was directed primarily against women. Husband and wife abuse accounted for 10 of the 16 violent disruptions (63%) while male/male abuse accounted for six (38%). CONCLUSIONS: The perpetuation of binge drinking and violence are part of a historic cycle of male dominance that dates back to the introduction of alcohol distillation during colonization by the Spaniards in the 16th century, compounded today by frustration over their inability to control the economic and political aspects of their households and community. Women's acquiescence to the violence is a form of mediation over male frustrations that allow women to continue in their roles as economic providers. Language: en
Isolation of axonally transported glycoproteins with goldfish visual system myelin

Abstract [ 3 H]fucose labeled glycoproteins which are rapidly transported in the goldfish optic nerve have been isolated with purified preparations of goldfish optic tectal myelin. SDS acrylamide gels of myelin proteins isolated one day after intraocular injection of fucose show a broad distribution of radioactivity among high molecular weight proteins. At progressively longer times after injection there is a shift in the distribution of radioactivity with the buildup of a peak of label with electrophoretic mobility corresponding to a molecular weight of ∼ 50,000. There is no corresponding peak of radioactivity in gels of total tectal membranes. Gels of myelin labeled through intracranial injections of fucose also show no single prominent peak of radioactivity. Results are discussed with reference to possible mechanisms for the shift in radioactivity patterns on gels and the possible functional significance of the myelin-associated glycoproteins.
Modeling the tagged-neutron UXO identification technique using the Geant4 toolkit

It is proposed to use 14 MeV neutrons tagged by the associated particle neutron time-of-flight technique (APnTOF) to identify the fillers of unexploded ordnances (UXO) by characterizing their carbon, nitrogen and oxygen contents. To facilitate the design and construction of a prototype system, a preliminary simulation model was developed, using the Geant4 toolkit. This work established the toolkit environment for (a) generating tagged neutrons, (b) their transport and interactions within a sample to induce emission and detection of characteristic gamma-rays, and (c) 2D and 3D-image reconstruction of the interrogated object using the neutron and gamma-ray time-of-flight information. Using the modeling, this article demonstrates the novelty of the tagged-neutron approach for extracting useful signals with high signal-to-background discrimination of an object-of-interest from that of its environment. Simulations indicated that an UXO filled with the RDX explosive, hexogen (C3H6O6N6), can be identified to a depth of 20 cm when buried in soil.
Cardiovascular effects of doxorubicin.

Abstract 1. Doxorubicin dose-dependently increased the cardiac contractility of isolated frog heart within the dose-range of 1.0 to 10.0 × 10−7 M and dose-dependently increased the cardiac output of frog heart in situ with a dose-range between 10−7 and 10−5 M. 2. The results of the in situ investigation, using cardiac output as the index of cardiac contractility, were in agreement with the in vitro results. The positive inotropic effects of doxorubicin climaxed around 10−5 M beyond which there was a dose-dependent decreased in contractility. 3. Haloperidol (10−6 M), a dopaminergic receptor blocker, and propranolol (10−8 M), a β-adrenergic blocker, did not block the positive inotropic effects of doxorubicin. 4. These results provide sufficient basis to suggest that doxorubicin is acting on the isolated amphibian heart through a mechanism which is not associated with β-adrenergic and/or dopaminergic receptors.
An analysis of bacterial growth in fluidized‐bed adsorption column

An analysis is presented to described the dynamics of fluidized bed adsorption columns. A microbial film model (recently proposed by the authors) is used to characterize the bacterial activity and its interaction with adsorption and solids mixing. Solids mixing and mixing in the liquid phase are included in the analysis, as is the effect of microbial film growth on the settling velocity of the adsorbent particles. The interplay of film growth, bed stratification and solids mixing is discussed in detail.
Positive adolescent sexuality as evident in consistent and reliable contraceptive use: A study of sexually active latino and non-latino youths’ contraceptive behavior

Contraceptive use is an integral aspect of adolescents’ positive sexuality development. However, recent studies indicate that sexually active Latino youth are less likely to use contraception than are sexually active non-Latino youth. This study examined the factors associated with the contraceptive behavior patterns of approximately 300 sexually experienced Latino and non-Latino adolescents. Results confirmed previous trends showing that Latino youth were less likely than non-Latino youth to use contraception at last sex, less likely to use condoms as a primary contraceptive method, and more likely to use ineffective birth control methods (i.e., withdrawal, the rhythm method). Frequent parent-adolescent communication about sex and birth control and youths’ childbearing intentions were significantly associated with consistent contraceptive use among Latinos. The practical and policy implications of findings for professionals who work with Latino adolescents are discussed.
Sculpting narrowband Fano resonances inherent in the large-area mid-infrared photonic crystal microresonators for spectroscopic imaging

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) imaging spectrometers are almost universally used to record microspectroscopic imaging data in the mid-infrared (mid-IR) spectral region. While the commercial standard, interferometry necessitates collection of large spectral regions, requires a large data handling overhead for microscopic imaging and is slow. Here we demonstrate an approach for mid-IR spectroscopic imaging at selected discrete wavelengths using narrowband resonant filtering of a broadband thermal source, enabled by high-performance guided-mode Fano resonances in one-layer, large-area mid-IR photonic crystals on a glass substrate. The microresonant devices enable discrete frequency IR (DF-IR), in which a limited number of wavelengths that are of interest are recorded using a mechanically robust instrument. This considerably simplifies instrumentation as well as overhead of data acquisition, storage and analysis for large format imaging with array detectors. To demonstrate the approach, we perform DF-IR spectral imaging of a polymer USAF resolution target and human tissue in the C−H stretching region (2600−3300 cm−1). DF-IR spectroscopy and imaging can be generalized to other IR spectral regions and can serve as an analytical tool for environmental and biomedical applications.
Errors in radiance simulation and scene discrimination

Radiance simulation can be achieved by selecting materials with the required infrared characteristics. The relationship between the corresponding quantities on the simulator target and the real target is established to assist in the design analysis. From it, those design parameters which critically affect the performance of the simulator and its sensitivity on the error in the simulating temperature are obtained.
Negative Charges in the Transmembrane Domains of the HERG K Channel Are Involved in the Activation- and Deactivation-gating Processes

The transmembrane domains of HERG (S1-S3) contain six negative charges: three are conserved in all voltage-gated K channels (D456 and D466 in S2, D501 in S3) and three are unique to the EAG family (D411 in S1, D460 in S2, and D509 in S3). We infer the functional role of these aspartates by studying how substituting them with cysteine, one at a time, affects the channel function. D456C is not functional, suggesting that this negative charge may play a critical role in channel protein folding during biogenesis, as has been shown for its counterpart in the Shaker channel. Data from the other five functional mutants suggest that D411 can stabilize the HERG channel in the closed state, while D460 and D509 have the opposite effect. D466 and D501 both may contribute to voltage-sensing during the activation process. On the other hand, all five aspartates work in a concerted fashion in contributing to the slow deactivation process of the HERG channel. Accessibility tests of the introduced thiol groups to extracellular MTS reagents indicate that water-filled crevices penetrate deep into the HERG protein core, reaching the cytoplasmic halves of S1 and S2. At these deep locations, accessibility of 411C and 466C to the extracellular aqueous phase is voltage dependent, suggesting that conformational changes occur in S1 and S2 or the surrounding crevices during gating. Increasing extracellular [H+] accelerates HERG deactivation. This effect is suppressed by substituting the aspartates with cysteine, suggesting that protonation of these aspartates may contribute to the signaling pathway whereby external [H+] influences conformational changes in the channel's cytoplasmic domains (where deactivation takes place). There is no evidence for a metal ion binding site coordinated by negative charges in the transmembrane domains of HERG, as the one described for the EAG channel.
Resistive Deployment of Inflatable Structures Using Velcro

To explain the dynamics of Velcro-controlled deployment of inflatable structures, we first examine various mechanisms involved in Velcro delamination. Unlike adhesive joints, it is found that Velcro has unique characteristics, wherein multiple load-carrying mechanisms are sequentially engaged to resist separation. Both tests and analysis suggest that a strength criterion based on the strain energy density dissipated during separation can best capture these mechanisms. A finite element model of Velcro interfaces is also used, along with a finite volume inflation model, to simulate the deployment behavior of Velcro-controlled inflatable structures. Although it is essential to determine whether a selected type of Velcro will deploy, it is of equal interest to the designer to assess the rate of deployment. To this end, simulation results show that, consistent with the proposed strength criterion, the average rate of energy dissipation at the Velcro interface also seems to be the most sensitive measure of the rate of Velcro-controlled deployment.
Frequency Shifts Of Self-Pumped Phase Conjugators

Frequency shifts of self -pumped phase conjugatorsM.D. Ewbank and P. YehRockwell International Science Center1049 Camino Dos Rios, Thousand Oaks, California 91360AbstractThe reflection from most photorefractive, self -pumped phase conjugators differs infrequency from the incident beam by a small amount (Aw /w - 10 -15). A theory and thesupporting experiments which explain such frequency shifts are presented. In our theory,four -wave mixing is responsible for the generation of the conjugated wave where a self -oscillation arising from photorefractive coupling provides the customary pumping beams.The frequency of these pumping beams is determined by a resonance cavity geometry and maybe slightly different from that of the incident beam. Nondegenerate four -wave mixing usingthese self -oscillating pumping beams give rise to the frequency shift of the phase -conjugate reflection. Experimental results are in good agreement with theory.IntroductionSelf- pumped phase -conjugate reflectorn1 -3 using photorefractive BaTiO3 have recently re-ceived considerable attention because 30 -50% reflectivities are relatively easy to achieveeven with low -power lasers. In self -pumped (or passive) phase conjugators, the counter -propagating pumping beams needed in the four -wave mixing process are automatically gener-ated by light photorefractively diffracted out of the incident beam. However, the phase -conjugate reflection is generally shifted slightly in frequency when compared to the inci-dent beam (on the order of 1 Hz depending on intensity). This frequency shift has beenattributed to moving photorefractive gratings which Doppler shift the diffracted light.`'The physical mechanism, which is responsible for the moving gratings, is, however, not wellunderstood.The frequency shift first manifested itself as a frequency scanning when self -pumpedBaTiO3 was coupled to a dye laser.4-6 Since those initial observations, numerous experi-ments and theories involving self -pumped phase conjugators and /or photorefractive resona-tors have addressed, either directly or indirectly, the frequency shift issue. 7-16However, a general theory and the conclusive experiments are not available.In this paper we present a theory and the supporting experiments which explain such fre-quency shifts of most self -pumped phase conjugators. In our theory, self -pumped phaseconjugation results from an internal self -oscillation. The optical resonance cavity whichsupports such oscillation is formed by either external mirrors or crystal surfaces.
Cumulative cohort design for dose-finding

Abstract We introduce a new design for dose-finding in the context of toxicity studies for which it is assumed that toxicity increases with dose. The goal is to identify the maximum tolerated dose, which is taken to be the dose associated with a prespecified “target” toxicity rate. The decision to decrease, increase or repeat a dose for the next subject depends on how far an estimated toxicity rate at the current dose is from the target. The size of the window within which the current dose will be repeated is obtained based on the theory of Markov chains as applied to group up-and-down designs. But whereas the treatment allocation rule in Markovian group up-and-down designs is only based on information from the current cohort of subjects, the treatment allocation rule for the proposed design is based on the cumulative information at the current dose. We then consider an extension of this new design for clinical trials in which the subject's outcome is not known immediately. The new design is compared to the continual reassessment method.
In situ exposimetry: The ovarian ultrasound examination

We have constructed a specialized in vivo exposimetry system and developed and tested customized software using specially fabricated hydrophones. We placed the hydrophones in the lateral vaginal fornix as close to the ovary as possible (usually 1-2 cm from the ovary) and determined selected first-order and second-order ultrasonic field quantities during a routine ultrasound examination of the ovary. Our sonographic measurements yielded mean ultrasound beam path distances of 7.6 cm. (n = 18) in the presence of a distended bladder and 7.0 cm. (n = 25) in the presence of an empty bladder with an average group insertion loss of 6.2 dB and 7.3 dB, respectively. Using a Fixed Attenuation Model, the tissue attenuation coefficient value was 2.98 dB/MHz; whereas for the Overlying Tissue Model the value was 0.72 dB/cm-MHz. These data are both specific and unique in that they have been systematically obtained in situ.
Prevailing wage regulations and school construction costs: Cumulative evidence from British Columbia

The effect of prevailing wage laws on the cost of public construction has been the subject of an ongoing public policy debate. We measure this effect by comparing the public/private construction cost differential for schools built before and after British Columbia's Skills Development and Fair Wage Policy. Regression results indicate that public schools were 40.5 percent more expensive to build prior to the policy. This differential was 40.1 percent after the policy's enforcement. However, this change is not statistically significant. Regression results also indicate a stable construction cost function over the policy period. These results indicate that the effect of fair wage requirements was not different from zero in terms of magnitude or statistical significance. Combining these results with the findings of our previous research provides a comprehensive view regarding the effect of the British Columbian prevailing wage policy on school construction. This body of research, utilizing a variety of statistical methods, provides consistent evidence indicating that a relatively strong prevailing wage policy was not associated with changes in the efficiency or productivity of construction that contributes to increased building costs.
Value management and common accounting performance measures for corporations

Abstract Management is aware that the value of firms is the ultimate measure of company performance. However, management has been using common accounting measures as an operating guide because the linkage between operational planning and value is vague and complex and, therefore, difficult to apply. Managers need to have clear targets and performance measures to track progress. This paper examines if a set of common accounting performance measures are linked tightly to the overall value of the firm. An abductive learning network (ALN) approach, an artificial intelligence technique, is used in this research because an ALN approach is non-parametric and can capture a subtle dynamic relationship between input and output variables, which is not obvious in linear statistical analysis. Empirical results show that an ALN model is very effective in synthesizing the value of the firm using six common accounting variables. The results also provide four strategic variables that can be used for devising strategic and operating plans to maximize the value of firms.
Conjugated One and Two Dimensional Polymers

The band structures of some existing and hypothetical one and two dimensional conjugated polymers are examined in this work. The aim is to explore how the band gap sizes and the occurrence of partially filled bands are related to unit cell constitution and the geometrical disposition of the atoms in the unit cell. Among the polymers explored are polyacetylene, polydiacetylene, polyphenylene, polyacene, graphite, boron nitride, polynitrile, polycyanonitrile, polypyridinopyridine, paracyanogen, the C$\_{3}$N net, (SN)$\_{x}$, (XCNSN)$\_{x}$, and C$\_{2}$S$\_{3}$N$\_{6}$ net.
EFFECT OF HEAT‐TREATMENT ON THE DENSITY AND CONSTITUTION OF HIGH‐SILICA GLASSES OF THE BOROSILICATE TYPE*

Some evidence leading to the supposition that certain borosilicate glasses containing a high percentage of silica are made up of two-component glasses is presented. One of these components, which consists mainly of silica and has a low expansivity, forms a rigid network throughout the body of the glass while the temperature is still high enough to maintain the other component in a liquid state. At lower temperatures, the latter component also forms a rigid network that is intricately entwined with that of the high-temperature component. The composition of the network that forms at relatively low temperatures is presumably not unlike that of a borosilicate glass containing a moderate percentage of silica. Consequently, the expansivity of this low-temperature component is definitely higher than that of the other. Because of the difference between the expansivities, the low-temperature component, as soon as it behaves as a rigid network on cooling, compresses the high-temperature network and is correspondingly distended. By cooling very rapidly, these elastic strains are developed at temperatures within and even above the upper part of the annealing range of the low-temperature component. When such strains are developed at high temperatures, they are relaxed by heat-treatments at lower annealing temperatures, and this relaxation causes an expansion of the undercooled glass while at a constant temperature. However, in the early stages of the treatment, the expansion caused by the relaxation of the strains may be overshadowed by a contraction that results from the shrinkage of the low-temperature component as it approaches equilibrium from its undercooled condition. These concepts concerning the constitution of borosilicate glasses that contain a high percentage of silica are used to explain the very unusual density changes that are observed when these glasses are subjected to heat-treatments at different annealing temperatures.
The effect of ESB on hippocampal EEG.

Abstract Hippocampal EEG of rats was spectrally analyzed immediately after ESB to the MFB. Electrical stimulation of the MFB did not yield seizure patterns in the hippocampus. The result of this procedure did show however that ESB elicited spectra that were statistically different from those elicited by a flashing light, and similar to those produced in a conditioning situation.
On the Penetrating Showers of Cosmic Radiation

Experiments have been performed on the penetrating showers of cosmic radiation accompanied and not accompanied by extensive air showers. In the accompanied showers the penetrating particles are very likely to pre-exist in the air; in the unaccompanied showers they are created in the absorbers surrounding the counters by a nucleonic component of the cosmic radiation.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Veterinary Medicine

This article presents some of the more important principles and concepts of therapeutic drug monitoring and when it might be an appropriate diagnostic procedure in veterinary medicine.
Ophthalmology and Vanity Fair

Vanity Fair was the leading Society magazine of Victorian and Edwardian England. A key feature of each weekly issue was the inclusion of a chromolithographed caricature and biographic sketch of a prominent individual. The author undertook a survey of the more than 2000 caricatures published from 1869 to 1914 to determine if any portrayed an ophthalmologist. Seventy-nine of the caricatures depicted physicians and scientists, of whom three were ophthalmologists: Sir Jonathan Hutchinson, Sir Robert Brudenell Carter, and Sir Anderson Critchett. A brief sketch of their ophthalmic accomplishments is presented. Caricatures from Vanity Fair are avidly sought after and are often found in antique shops, sporting venues, and professional offices, especially those of lawyers and judges. It has been said that when seeking the true perspective of the Victorian and Edwardian eras, the most faithful mirror and record of representative men and the spirit of their times can be found in Vanity Fair.
Left-handed major-league baseball players and longevity re-examined.

We re-examined the relationship between handedness and age at death for major league baseball players who died before 2002. This study extended the most recent examination of this issue by 13 years...
Decarbonized hydrogen and electricity from natural gas

This paper discusses configuration, attainable performances and thermodynamic features of stand-alone plants for the co-production of de-carbonized hydrogen and electricity from natural gas (NG) based on commercially available technology. We focus on the two basic technologies currently used in large industrial applications: fired tubular reformer (FTR) and auto-thermal reformer (ATR). In both cases we assume that NG is pre-heated and humidified in a saturator providing water for the reforming reaction; this reduces the amount of steam to be bled from the power cycle and increases electricity production. Outputs flows are made available at conditions suitable for transport via pipeline: 60 bar for pure hydrogen, 150 bar for pure CO2. To reduce hydrogen compression power requirements reforming is carried out at relatively high pressures: 25 bar for FTR, 70 bar for ATR. Reformed gas is cooled and then passed through two water–gas shift reactors to optimize heat recovery and maximize the conversion to hydrogen. In plants with CO2 capture, shifted gas goes through an amine-based chemical absorption system that removes most of the CO2. Pure hydrogen is obtained by pressure swing absorption (PSA), leaving a purge gas utilized to fire the reformer (in FTR) and to boost electricity production. For the power cycle we consider conventional steam cycles (SC) and combined cycles (CC). The scale of plants based on a CC is determined by the gas turbine. To maintain NG input within the same range (around 1200 MW), we considered a General Electric 7FA for ATR, a 6FA for FTR. The scale of plants with SC is set by assuming the same NG input of the corresponding CC plant. Heat and mass balances are evaluated by a model accounting for the constraints posed by commercial technology, as well as the effects of scale. Results show that, from a performance standpoint, the technologies of choice for the production of de-carbonized hydrogen from NG are FTR with SC or ATR with CC. When operated at high steam-to-carbon ratios, the latter reach CO2 emissions chargeable to hydrogen of 10–11 kg of CO2 per GJLHV—less than 20% of NG—with an equivalent efficiency of hydrogen production in excess of 77%.
Sexually transmitted infections and risk of prostate cancer: review of historical and emerging hypotheses

Since the early 1950s when sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were first proposed as a possible risk factor for prostate cancer, numerous epidemiologic studies have been conducted. Initially, these studies were primarily small case-control studies with retrospective, self-reported assessments of a narrow range of STIs, typically either any STIs, or gonorrhea and syphilis. However, as new STIs have been discovered/recognized, new and better tests to detect histories of STIs have been developed, and new resources for prostate cancer research have been created, epidemiologic studies have expanded to include a wide range of STIs, and have moved towards more rigorous, prospective study designs and serological assessment of STI histories. The results of these studies are reviewed and discussed, as well as possible new avenues of research, such as Trichomonas vaginalis infection and infections not typically considered to be sexually transmitted.
Seasonal activity patterns of glycolytic enzymes in a hibernator, the Arctic ground squirrel Spermophilus parryi

The maximum activities of the enzymes of glycolysis of five tissues (cerebrum, heart, liver, kidney cortex and skeletal muscle) were examined in a hibernator, the Arctic ground squirrel, in both the summer-active and hibernating (winter) states. In addition, by observing through electrofocussing the appearance of variants of hepatic pyruvate kinase, an attempt was made to determine the time-course of preparation for hibernation. This process requires about 4 weeks, which is about the same as that for the preparation for emergence from hibernation. The separate tissues responded in individually characteristic fashions, although the enzymes from kidney cortex and liver tended to show a general increase and the enzymes from heart and brain showed a general decrease. The enzyme activities in skeletal muscle changed in seemingly disparate ways with some enzymes increasing in hibernation, while others decreased, and yet others remained unchanged. These results are discussed in the light of the hibernating habit of the mammal.
Nitrite, a hypoxia selective nitric oxide donor, limits renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in non-human primates

METHODS: We designed a non-human primate renal ischemiareperfusion model to test the effects of nitrite in preserving renal function. Adult cynomologous monkeys were subjected to 30 minutes of bilateral warm renal ischemia with or without 1.8 umol/kg of sodium nitrite prior to renal cross-clamp. Weight-matched control animals received saline infusion. Insignificant hypotension developed in some animals during nitrite infusion. Nitrite levels were measured at baseline, after loading dose and 5 and 30 minutes after reperfusion. A baseline renal biopsy was taken and two subsequent biopsies were taken 30 minutes and 7 days after reperfusion. Daily BUN/creatinine measurements were made for 7 days. Animals were euthanized on day 7.