cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ISOTHERMAL MEASUREMENT OF HEATS OF HYDRATION IN ZEOLITES BY SIMULTANEOUS THERMOGRAVIMETRY AND DIFFERENTIAL SCANNING CALORIMETRY

A calorimetric method for determining isothermal partial and integral heats of hydration reactions ( ${\rm{\Delta }}{\bar H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ and ${\rm{\Delta }}{\tilde H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ , respectively) in zeolites and other mineral hydrates is presented. The method involves immersing a dehydrated sample in a humid gas stream under isothermal conditions within a thermal analysis device that records simultaneous differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) signals. Monitoring changes in sample mass (corresponding to extent of reaction progress) coincident with a quantitative measurement of heat flow allows for direct detection of ${\rm{\Delta }}{\bar H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ as a function of the extent of hydration, which can be integrated to determine ${\rm{\Delta }}{\tilde H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ . In addition, it eliminates uncertainties associated with imprecise knowledge of the starting and final states of a sample during hydration. Measurement under isothermal conditions removes uncertainties associated with heat capacity effects that complicate interpretations of DSC measurements of dehydration heats conducted under traditional scanning temperature conditions. Example experiments on the zeolites natrolite, analcime and chabazite are used to illustrate strategies for quantifying ${\rm{\Delta }}{\bar H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ and ${\rm{\Delta }}{\tilde H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ and minimizing errors associated with baseline uncertainties. Results from this method agree well with previously published values determined by other calorimetric techniques and regression of phase equilibrium data. In the case of chabazite, the results allowed detailed measurements of the variation in ${\rm{\Delta }}{\bar H_{{\rm{R,}}T,\,P}}$ for energetically different water types encountered progressively as the sample absorbed water. This technique complements and in many cases improves the quality of thermodynamic data obtained through phase equilibrium observations and other calorimetric techniques.
Polarization patterns and symmetries as a manifestation of helicity preserving characteristics of scattering media

Polarization patterns which are observed in backscattering from random media are shown to be connected with the helicity preserving characteristics of the scattering particles. The properties of the spatially resolved Mueller matrix can be derived in a simple manner and it is shown that they are related to scattering trajectories that preserve the total angular momentum of light.
Properties of tellurium-doped epitaxial bismuth films.

We report on the magnetoresistivity and Hall resistivity of epitaxial bismuth films grown by molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE) and doped n type with tellurium. We demonstrate that Te is a monovalent donor, up to a density of 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{25}$ ${\mathrm{m}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$ (5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{19}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$). This can be explained by assuming that the Te-donor level is 190 meV above the L-point conduction-band edge. The extrinsic carrier density decreases with increasing temperature. The average electron mobility in the trigonal plane as a function of electron density is of the same order of magnitude as that of similarly doped indium antimonide. Electrons in bismuth are less sensitive to ionized impurity scattering than in group III-V compounds because of the high dielectric constant of the host. We also discuss the diffusion of tellurium in MBE-grown bismuth films.
Industrial Analytical Operations: Organizational Implications of Automation

Abstract In an age when speed-driven automation is displacing a large proportion of the workforce, the analytical laboratory will not be spared cutbacks. The greatest potential gains in productivity, however, may be in changing corporate culture to best use the human talent available. This article demonstrates that conditions of high sample variability or low throughput are best handled through leveraging the human resources in the industrial analytical laboratory. The analytical laboratory of the future will be even more dynamic than that of the present, requiring an environment conducive to learning. Management techniques are discussed.
Inclusive cross section and correlations of fully reconstructed jets in sNN=200GeV Au + Au and p+p collisions

Abstract We present an experimental study of full jet reconstruction in the high multiplicity environment of heavy ion collisions, utilizing s N N = 200 GeV p + p and central Au + Au data measured by STAR. Inclusive differential jet production cross sections and ratios are reported, as well as high- p T hadron–jet coincidences.
Control of Head-Eye Coordination of Conversational Robotic Actors

Abstract Head-eye coordination for conversational robotic actors require sophisticated control schemes in order to achieve realistic motion distribution between the head and the eyes. In turn, this requires a thorough understanding of human kinesiology that governs the way humans coordinate head-eye motion and the ability to control the motion of humanoid robotic actors to actuate in the same manner that humans do. In this paper, we propose an efficient head-eye motion coordination scheme to generate realistic head-eye movement of the conversational robotic actors for human tracking application using a combination of cost function optimization approach and image-based visual feedback. A cost function is formed based on kinesiology and then optimized to obtain a realistic head-eye trajectory. To minimize the effect from modelling error and imperfections of the actual humanoid hardware, visual feedback is implemented to ensure head-eye motion tracking accuracy. Experimental results show the tracking efficiency and realism of the motion generated by the proposed scheme with Lilly, a humanoid under development in our lab.
Autophagy in Tumor Immunity

Autophagy can promote the survival of tumor cells through nutrients recovered from degrading and recycling damaged organelles. How this mechanism can stimulate or limit the immune system's attack on tumor cells has not been well understood ( 1 ). On page 1573 of this issue, Michaud et al. ( 2 ) show that in mice, chemotherapy-induced autophagy causes the release of adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) from tumor cells, thereby stimulating antitumor immune responses.
Trinity, Temporality, and Open Theism

A number of thinkers today, including open theists, find reasons to attribute temporality to God. According to Robert W. Jenson, the Trinity is indispensable to a Christian concept of God, and divine temporality is essential to the meaning of the Trinity. Following the lead of early Christian thought, Jenson argues that the “persons” of the Trinity are relations, and these relations are temporal. Jenson’s insights are obscured, however, by problematic references to time as a sphere to which God is related. Schubert M. Ogden gives the notion of divine temporality coherent content by arguing that God’s actuality is best understood as an unending succession of experiences. This paper was delivered in the APA Pacific 2007 Mini-Conference on Models of God.
Evaluation of Postprostatectomy Incontinence: Determining Candidacy for the Transobturator Sling

Success rates for the male transobturator sling can be influenced by many variables. Determining who is a good surgical candidate will improve patient counseling, management of expectations, and outcomes. The extent of the currently published literature in this subject describes variable inclusion and exclusion criteria, patient evaluation strategies, and definitions of treatment success. As such, there is controversy regarding prognostic factors. Herein we review the literature to guide patient evaluation and discuss our current strategy for selecting patients who are good candidates for the male transobturator sling.
Effect of feeding regime and irradiance on the photophysiology of the symbiotic sea anemone Aiptasia pulchella

To determine how the animal and algal components of the symbiotic sea anemone Aiptasia pulchella respond to changes in food availability and culture irradiance, sea anemones from a single clone were maintained at four irradiance levels (320, 185, 115, and 45 μE m-2 s-1) and either starved or fed for 5 wk. Changes in protein biomass of sea anemones maintained under these conditions were not related to the productivity of zooxanthellae, since the protein biomass of fed A. pulchella decreased with increase in irradiance and there was no difference in protein biomass among starved sea anemones at the four irradiance levels. Except for the starved high-light sea anemones, the density of symbiotic zooxanthellae was independent of culture irradiance within both starved and fed. A. pulchella. Starved sea anemones contained over twice the density of zooxanthellae as fed sea anemones. Within both starved and fed individuals, chlorophyll per zooxanthella increased with decreasing culture irradiance while algal size remained constant (in fed sea anemones) at about 8.80 μm diameter. Chlorophyll a: c 2 ratios of zooxanthellae increased with decreasing culture irradiance in zooxanthellae from starved sea anemones but remained constant in zooxanthellae from fed sea anemones. As estimated from mitotic index data, the in situ growth rates of zooxanthellae averaged 0.007 d-1 and did not vary with irradiance or feeding regime. Photosynthesis-irradiance (P-I) responses of fed A. pulchella indicated an increase in photosynthetic efficiency with decreasing culture irradiance. But there was no consistent pattern in photosynthetic capacity with culture irradiance. Respiration rates of fed sea anemones also did not vary in relation to culture irradiance. The parameter I k , defined as the irradiance at which light-saturated rates of photosynthesis are first attained, was the only parameter from the P-I curves which increased linearly with increasing culture irradiance. The daily ratio of net photosynthesis to respiration for A. pulchella ranged from 1.6 to 2.8 for sea anemones maintained at the three higher irradiances, but was negative for those maintained at 45 μE m-2 s-1. Since the final protein biomass was greatest for sea anemones maintained at the lowest irradiance, these results indicate that sea anemone growth cannot be directly related to productivity of zooxanthellae in this symbiotic association.
Is Agency a Power of Self-Movement?

AbstractHelen Steward argues that agency is a power to move oneself, and that it is specifically a power to move one’s body. This conception of agency is supported by a long tradition and is widely held today. It is, however, opposed to another conception of agency on which agency is a power to transact with others—with other things and with other agents. The latter conception, though scarcely represented in contemporary action theory, is no less traditional than the one that Steward prefers. In this paper I argue, first, that Steward’s official purposes do not require her to privilege self-movement over other-movement, as she resolutely does; and, second, that the two touchstones of truth to which she appeals throughout her book—namely ordinary thought and natural science—both recommend a conception of agency on which it is a power whose characteristic and definitive act is a transaction.
The toxicity of silicon carbide whiskers, a review

Abstract Epidemiological studies of workers occupationally exposed to man‐made mineral fibers have revealed a significant connection between exposure and the incidence of pulmonary pathologies including cancer. Although surface chemistry and related characteristics are factors in particle toxicity, most workers agree that the strongest correlate with toxicity is particle size and geometry. From the perspective of data available from exposure in animal models and in vitro experiments, one might expect silicon carbide whiskers to be at least as toxic as crocidolite asbestos. In several studies of workers involved in the production of SiC, fibers of silicon carbide were found associated with permanent respiratory dysfunction and lung cancer. Until competent studies of adequate duration in animal models are performed or epidemiological evidence is collected, a “no effect”; level can not be established. Measures should be taken in the work place to prevent pulmonary exposure to silicon carbide in fiber or whis...
The other Reason Job Suburbanization Hurts Blacks The Relationship between the Location and Racial Composition of Employment in Detroit and Atlanta, 1980

Data are presented on the racial composition of employment in census tracts for Detroit and Atlanta, showing that employment in the central cities is disproportionately black, and employment in the suburbs is disproportionately white. It is argued that this urban-suburban contrast is explained by the concentration of black employment in predominantly black neighborhoods. Physical proximity to black workers and human capital considerations can account for a small percentage of this relationship. However, even after controlling for these factors, the effect of neighborhood racial composition on the percentage black of employment is quite substantial. These findings suggest that the suburbanization of work may adversely affect black employment, not so much by moving jobs outside of their feasible commuting range but by shifting jobs to areas of the city where black workers are at a higher risk of discrimination.
Prohibited abbreviations in electronic medical records.

To the Editor: The Joint Commission provides guidance to practitioners on safe medication practices through its “Do Not Use” list of abbreviations. In this list, clinicians are encouraged to avoid the use of prohibited abbreviations in patient history and physicals, progress notes, discharge summaries, and medication orders. Avoidance of prohibited abbreviations helps to reduce medication errors that can lead to patient harm. The use of electronic medical records (EMRs) has decreased medication errors caused by illegible handwriting by health care providers, but medication errors can be increased if prohibited abbreviations are used in these communications. Electronic communication must follow previous standards for safe medication practices. Pharmacists play an integral role on an institutional performance improvement committee through their knowledge of safe mediation practices. Our institution performed a rapid-cycle improvement initiative targeting health care provider’s use of institutionally recognized prohibited abbreviations in EMRs. In parallel, the impact of pharmacy on a quality improvement initiative was assessed. Pharmacy led education regarding the avoidance of prohibited abbreviations in free-text EMR documentation and evaluated compliance with our institution’s safe medication practice policy, which includes an expanded prohibited abbreviation list. Eighty patient charts were randomly selected for inclusion in this 10-week evaluation. The pre-education audit found 295 prohibited abbreviations in 40 EMRs, with medication abbreviations being the most common prohibited abbreviation (78%) (Table 1). Education interventions to reach practitioners were performed by pharmacy personnel, including publishing prohibited abbreviations in physician workrooms, nursing work areas, and morning resident and faculty meetings; distributing data collection results and educational material to physician department chairs; recruiting unit-based clinical pharmacists to educate medical teams; and participating in the nursing skills fair. The post education audit found that pharmacist-led education resulted in a 68% reduction of prohibited abbreviations in 40 EMRs. Table 1. Frequency of prohibited abbreviation use in electronic medical records (EMRs) before and after educational intervention (N = 40) As advances in technology are integrated into health care, communication is increased between health care providers. Providers must continue to avoid using prohibited abbreviations to ensure patient safety. Our performance improvement initiative highlights the impact pharmacists may have on an institution’s achievement of National Patient Safety Goals and encourages pharmacists to be at the forefront of safe medication practices at their institution.
The Colour of Class Revisited: Four Decades of Postcolonialism in Zambia

Ethnographic revisits have become an increasing practice in the social sciences, designed to advance the understanding of history through the linking of micro processes and societal structures. In this article I revisit my study of Zambianisation on the Copperbelt, conducted between 1968 and 1972. The methodology of the extended case method is used first to re-present the original study and then to reassess it critically in terms of what has happened over the last 40 years. Four types of revisit are considered: revisit as refutation of the original study, revisit as an approach to historical change, revisit as comparative analysis, and revisit as reconstructing social theory. My reassessment relies on other studies of the Zambian mines, but also on ethnographic research I conducted in the US, Hungary and Russia during the same 40-year period.
RAS blockade, hyperkalemia and AKI—look and you will find

Aliskiren combined with other inhibitors of the renin–angiotensin system increases the risk of hyperkalemia. This risk does not translate into an increased incidence of acute kidney injury, suggest the results of a meta-analysis. However, further research is needed to fully evaluate the safety of combination therapy with aliskiren.
Robust beamforming for cognitive radio based vehicular communication

This paper proposes a robust beamforming scheme under steering vector uncertainty for cognitive radio based vehicular communication. The service probability of secondary users (SU) is maximized, the SU's transmission power is uniform within the target mobility range, and the probability of interference level to primary users (PU) is constrained. Simulation results show significant BER improvement for PU without trading off the SU's performance when there are errors in steering vectors.
Mutational analysis of NOG in esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula patients

The NOG protein is a secretory antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Nog−/− mouse embryos demonstrate proximal esophageal atresia (EA) and distal tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) compatible with the most common configuration of EA/TEF observed in humans. Four microdeletions that span the NOG locus at 17q22 have been described in human patients having EA/TEF. We investigated the incidence of point mutations in the coding region of the NOG gene in human EA/TEF. DNA was collected from 50 patients previously treated for EA/TEF. PCR was used to amplify the coding region of NOG. To detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), amplicons were subjected to temperature gradient capillary electrophoresis (TGCE). Candidate SNPs were directly sequenced. TGCE analysis revealed a SNP in the coding region of NOG in 1 of 50 patients (2%). DNA sequencing revealed a synonymous SNP at position 468 (C–T) of the NOG coding region. SNPs in the coding region of the NOG gene are identified infrequently in human cases of EA/TEF. Further investigation of SNPs in the promoter region of NOG is warranted, as is the effect of synonymous SNPs on NOG mRNA stability.
WELFARE GAINS FROM REMOVING LAND‐USE DISTORTIONS: AN ANALYSIS OF URBAN CHANGE IN POST‐APARTHEID SOUTH AFRICA*

. This paper analyzes the effect of eliminating apartheid land-use restrictions in South Africa using a simplified version of the standard urban model. When freedom of residential location is granted, black township residents compete for land near the center of the core cities, pushing white residents to less accessible locations. Black consumption rises and white consumption falls in response, but the increase in total land rent is sufficient to compensate for white losses. The resulting aggregate welfare gain is a natural consequence of eliminating the distortion imposed by the apartheid system. These conclusions are robust to a number of modifications of the basic model.
Hemodynamic effects of intravenous flecainide relative to the level of ventricular function in patients with coronary artery disease.

Flecainide, a new antiarrhythmic agent with poorly defined hemodynamic actions, was studied in 22 patients with coronary artery disease. Intravenous infusions of 1 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg resulted in respective increases in right atrial pressure (12%, p < 0.05; 15%, p < 0.01), mean pulmonary artery pressure (27%, p < 0.01; 28%, p < 0.01), and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (44%, p < 0.05; 33%, p < 0.01). Cardiac index decreased 8% (p < 0.05) after 1 mg/kg flecainide and 12% (p < 0.05) after the 2 mg/kg dose. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction decreased by 15% (p < 0.01) and 16% (p < 0.01), respectively, 10 minutes after 1 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg of flecainide. Minimal increases in the heart rate (< 5%) and no significant change in arterial pressure occurred 5 to 10 minutes after flecainide and were associated with borderline and variable increases in pulmonary and systemic vascular resistances. Flecainide diluent did not induce changes in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure or left ventricular ejection fraction. Thus, flecainide exerts a moderate but significant negative inotropic effect which may be clinically significant in patients with severely compromised ventricular function.
Epigenetic Mechanisms in Cognition

Although the critical role for epigenetic mechanisms in development and cell differentiation has long been appreciated, recent evidence reveals that these mechanisms are also employed in postmitotic neurons as a means of consolidating and stabilizing cognitive-behavioral memories. In this review, we discuss evidence for an "epigenetic code" in the central nervous system that mediates synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. We consider how specific epigenetic changes are regulated and may interact with each other during memory formation and how these changes manifest functionally at the cellular and circuit levels. We also describe a central role for mitogen-activated protein kinases in controlling chromatin signaling in plasticity and memory. Finally, we consider how aberrant epigenetic modifications may lead to cognitive disorders that affect learning and memory, and we review the therapeutic potential of epigenetic treatments for the amelioration of these conditions.
The Full‐Glacial Vegetation of Northwestern Georgia

Two small ponds in Bartow County, Georgia, northwest of Atlanta, originated by subsidence of unconsolidated surface deposits into solution hollows in the underlying lower Paleozoic Knox Dolomite. The pond sediments consist of copropelic clays 250—400 cm thick with well—preserved plant remains, covered by as much as 150 cm of colluvial deposits with moderately to poorly preserved plant fossils. The clays yield radiocarbon dates of 20,100 and 22,900 BP near their base, contemporaneous with the main Wisconsin glaciation. The full—glacial sediments are rich in pollen and plant macrofossils. The pollen assemblage is dominated by Pinus (pine), with small amounts of Picea (spruce), Quercus (oak), Ostrya type (hophornbeam), and herbaceous types. It closely resembles published full—glacial pollen assemblages from southeastern North Carolina. Pinus banksiana (jack—pine) and Picea sp. are represented by fossil needles at many levels, and the rich macroflora of aquatics shows a marked phytogeographical relationship w...
Challenges in Consolidated Reporting of Hematopoietic Neoplasms

This article focuses on the challenges of generating comprehensive diagnostic reports in hematopathology. In particular, two main challenges that diagnosticians face are (1) interpreting and understanding the rapid advances in molecular and genetic pathology, which have gained increasing importance in classifications of hematopoietic neoplasms, and (2) managing the logistics of reporting ancillary studies and incorporating them effectively into a final synthesized report. This article summarizes many important genetic findings in hematopoietic neoplasms, which are required for accurate diagnoses, and discusses practical issues to generating accurate and complete hematopathology reports.
Gasdynamic modeling and computational accuracy

The study of the behavior of computational solutions of Burgers' equation at large mesh Reynolds numbers ReΔx is extended to a one-dimensional steady-state model gasdynamic system with downstream extrapolation conditions. The oscillations generally present in computed results at large ReΔx can be minimized by choosing a particular formally second-order accurate, conservative discretization of the nonlinear terms (ϱu)x and (ϱu2)x in the continuity and momentum equations. This minimally oscillatory solution has small pointwise error even at large ReΔx. It is seen that smoothness by itself may not guarantee computational accuracy, and that overly refined spatial meshes may lead to large errors. Results from a realistic two-dimensional computation showing some qualitative agreement with the present conclusions are given.
Modeling rheological behavior of highly flowable mortar using concepts of particle and fluid mechanics

Abstract A particle–fluid model is developed for predicting the relationship between the shear stress and shear strain rate of highly flowable mortars. In this model, mortars are considered as a two-phase material, containing a fluid matrix (cement paste) and a group of well-graded, non-cohesive, and rigid particles (fine aggregate) that are uniformly distributed in the matrix. The mortar shear stress is assumed to be the sum of the shear stresses resulting from the paste flow, the aggregate particle movement, and the interaction between the cement paste and aggregate. The shear stress resulting from the paste flow is assessed using constitutive equations. The shear stress resulting from the aggregate particle movement is evaluated based on the probability and mechanical concepts of aggregate particle collision. The shear stress resulting from the interaction between the paste and aggregate is considered as the normal stress that the moving aggregate particles apply onto the cement paste. The shear rate of the mortar is obtained from the rheological definition of viscosity. Using this model, the effects of mortar mixture properties (such as aggregate size, volume, gradation, and friction as well as paste viscosity and yield stress) on mortar rheology are studied.
Defeasible inheritance on cyclic networks

Abstract In this paper, we are going to present a new notion of “extension” for defeasible inheritance networks that allows us to deal with cyclic nets. Horty has shown that cyclic nets need not have extensions in the sense of Touretzky. This paper presents a generalization of that notion of extension that can be applied to cyclic nets. The present proposal is inspired by a somewhat unexpected analogy between cyclic nets and “semantically closed” languages, i.e., languages containing their own truth predicate. Accordingly, this approach to defeasible inheritance networks with cycles shows similarities to the solution of semantic paradoxes put forth by Kripke.
Can Resorbable Screws Effectively Be Used in Fixating Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomies for Mandibular Advancement? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose Resorbable fixation material is an attractive option for those patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. The efficacy of resorbable screws was tested in bilateral mandibular sagittal split osteotomies (BSSOs) performed for correction of retrognathic mandibles. Materials and Methods One hundred one patients were enrolled in this prospective randomized clinical trial. Patients in group 1 (n = 51) received titanium screws (Stryker) and patients in group 2 (n = 50) received resorbable screws (Inion CPS). Outcome measurements were compared for statistical significance. Results There was a statistically significant difference in the use of postoperative elastics ( P Conclusion Resorbable screws can be used effectively for fixation of BSSO for mandibular advancement. A higher incidence of rotation around positional screws can result secondary to the mechanical “looseness” when using resorbable screws. This can be treated effectively using Class III mechanic elastics during the initial stages of bone healing.
Probing the extended gaseous regions of M31 with quasar absorption lines

We present HST-COS spectra of ten quasars located behind M31, selected to investigate the properties of gas associated with its extended disk and high velocity clouds (HVCs). The sightlines have impact parameters ranging between b= 13 kpc and 112 kpc. No absorption is detected in the four sightlines beyond b=57 kpc. Of the six remaining sightlines, all of which lie at b<32 kpc and within the N(HI)= 2E18 cm^{-2} boundary of the HI disk of M31, we detect low-ionization absorption at M31 velocities along four of them (three of which include MgII absorption). We also detect MgII absorption from an HVC. We find that along sightlines where both are detected, the velocity location of the low-ion gas tracks the peak in 21 cm emission. High-ionization absorption is detected along the three inner sightlines, but not along the three outer sightlines, for which CIV data exist. As inferred from 21 cm emission line maps, only one sightline may have a damped Ly-alpha system. This sightline has b= 17.5 kpc, and we detect both low- and high-ion absorption lines associated with it. The impact parameters through M31 are similar to the impact parameters of galaxies identified with MgII absorbers at redshifts 0.1<z<1.0 in a 2011 study by Rao et al. However, the M31 MgII2796 rest equivalent width values are significantly smaller. In comparison, moderate-to-strong MgII absorption from Milky Way gas is detected along all ten sightlines. Thus, this study indicates that M31 does not present itself as an absorbing galaxy which is typical of higher-redshift galaxies inferred to give rise to moderate-strength quasar absorption lines. M31 also appears not to possess an extensive large gaseous cross section, at least not along the direction of its major axis. (Abridged.)
The National Scene: Graduate Programs in Chemistry: A Time for Innovation and Reform

In June of 1995 the Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate (MPS) of the National Science Foundation organized a workshop on Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Training in MPS. Included amo...
Aspects of the fine structure of the intrahepatic bile duct epithelium in normal and cholecystectomized mice.

The epithelium lining the intrahepatic bile ducts of normal adult mice consists of a single layer of cuboidal or low columnar cells and has ultrastructure comparable to that described previously (Rouiller and Jezequel, '65). Some of the epithelial cells, however, exhibit such particular features as dilatation of granular endoplasmic reticulum cisternae, polysome formation of ribosomes and the presence of active forms of the Golgi apparatus, numerous lysosome-like bodies and apical projections and blebs. Postnatal cholecystectomy does not induce any qualitative changes in the epithelial fine structure, but results in a significant increase in number of the particular structures mentioned. Therefore, the cholecystectomy is thought to stimulate the secretory activity of the epithelial cells, and such stimulation appears due to the absence of a possible activity of epithelial secretion in the gallbladder.
Brain ketones detected by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in an infant with Ohtahara syndrome treated with ketogenic diet.

Atypical resonances on proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) examinations are occasionally found in children undergoing a metabolic evaluation for neurological conditions. While a radiologist’s first instinct is to suspect a pathological metabolite, usually the origin of the resonance arises from an exogenous source. We report the appearance of distinct resonances associated with a ketogenic diet in a male infant presenting with Ohtahara syndrome. These resonances can be confused in interpretation with lactate and glutamate. To confirm assignments, the basis set for quantification was supplemented with simulations of β-hydroxybutyrate, acetone and acetoacetate in LCModel spectroscopy processing software. We were able to quantitate the levels of end products of a ketogenic diet and illustrate how to distinguish these resonances.
Staged Palliation of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: Trends in Mortality, Cost, and Length of Stay Using a National Database from 2000 Through 2009

Staged surgical palliation has revolutionized the care of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), although the outcomes of survival and cost at a national level remain unclear. This study sought to evaluate (1) trends in HLHS surgical outcomes including in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS), and cost, and (2) patient and hospital risk factors associated with these outcomes. Hospitalizations for patients with HLHS, including stage I, II, and III palliations, were analyzed using the Kids' Inpatient Database from 2000 through 2009. Trends in mortality, LOS, and cost were analyzed and chi-squared tests were used to test association between categorical variables. Patient and hospital characteristics associated with death were analyzed using logistic regression and associations with LOS were analyzed using ordinary least squared regression. There were 16,923 hospital admissions in patients with HLHS of which 5,672 (34%) included surgical intervention. Total (3,201–5,102) and surgery-specific admissions (1,165–1,618) increased from 2000 to 2009. Mortality decreased 14% per year in stage III palliations (odds ratio [OR] 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79–0.94) and 6% per year for stage I palliations (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.90–0.99) but not for stage II palliations (OR 1.01; 95% CI; 0.89–1.14). Length of stay increased for stage I and II palliations; however, per-patient hospital cost decreased in 2009. In conclusion, recent decrease in per patient cost for staged surgical palliation for HLHS has correlated temporally with improved mortality.
Solubility enhancement of electrolyzed coal residues

Abstract Coal slurries were electrolyzed in acidic as well as basic electrolytes at different oxidizing potentials. The partially reacted coal residues were subjected to Soxhlet extraction with an equivolumetric mixture of benzene and ethanol for a period of 24 hours. The solvent-soluble organic part of coal was analyzed by GC-MS. Coal electrolyzed in acidic electrolytes became more accessible to extraction by the solvents used in the study. Electrolysis at 3.1 V vs. SCE (saturated calomel electrode) of a North Dakota lignite enhanced the solubility of coal in the benzene-ethanol mixture by a significant amount of 33%. Coal electrolysis in basic electrolytes at lower electrode potentials resulted in enhanced solubility of coal; however, at relatively large electrode potentials the yield of organic chemicals obtained by Soxhlet extraction declined.
Postglacial vegetation and climate in the northwestern Great Plains of Montana

Two pollen records from the northern Great Plains of Montana portray vegetational and climatic changes during the last 12,200 yr in a region where few other data are available. A 6.4-m core from Guardipee Lake, east of the Rocky Mountains in the area formerly covered by the Two Medicine glacial lobe, contains the Glacier Peak G and Mt. St. Helens Jy volcanic ashes. Pollen percentage data are dominated by Pinus, Poaceae, Artemisia, and Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae. High nonarboreal percentages and small amounts of Juniperus, Alnus, Salix, and Populus pollen in sediments deposited between ca. 12,200 and ca. 9300 yr B.P. suggest a temperate grassland with shrubs growing locally in mesic settings. After ca. 9300 yr B.P. an increase in Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae pollen and a concomitant decline in Artemisia indicate the development of more xerophytic grassland and the beginning of the altithermal period. The lake probably was intermittently dry thoughout the Holocene. A high sedimentation rate and the presence of cereal taxa characterize the last ca. 100 yr of Euroamerican settlement. Lost Lake at the northern margin of the Highwood Mountains yielded a 16.94-m core with no volcanic ashes that spans the last 9400 yr. High amounts of Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae, Artemisia, and Poaceae pollen, from ca. 9400 to ca. 6000 yr B.P., suggest the presence of xeric grassland and a climate drier than at present. After ca. 6000 yr B.P. Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae values declined and Artemisia, Poaceae, Pinus, Picea, Salix, Alnus, and Betula increased. The inferred spread of shrubs in wet habitats at this time and the expansion of forest in nearby mountain ranges indicate the end of the altithermal period and the onset of cooler/moister conditions.
DNA Binding and Dimerization of the Fe−S-containing FNR Protein from Escherichia coli Are Regulated by Oxygen

The transcription factor FNR from Escherichia coli regulates transcription of genes in response to oxygen deprivation. To determine how the activity of FNR is regulated by oxygen, a form of FNR had to be isolated that had properties similar to those observed in vivo. This was accomplished by purification of an FNR fraction which exhibited enhanced DNA binding in the absence of oxygen. Iron and sulfide analyses of this FNR fraction indicated the presence of an Fe-S cluster. To determine the type of Fe-S cluster present, an oxygen-stable mutant protein LH28-DA154 was also analyzed since FNR LH28-DA154 purified anoxically contained almost 3-fold more iron and sulfide than the wild-type protein. Based on the sulfide analysis, the stoichiometry (3.3 mol of S2−/FNR monomer) was consistent with either one [4Fe-4S] or two [2Fe-2S] clusters per mutant FNR monomer. However, since FNR has only four Cys residues as potential cluster ligands and an EPR signal typical of a 3Fe-4S cluster was detected on oxidation, we conclude that there is one [4Fe-4S] cluster present per monomer of FNR LH28-DA154. We assume that the wild type also contains one [4Fe-4S] cluster per monomer and that the lower amounts of iron and sulfide observed per monomer were due to partial occupancy. Consistent with this, the Fe-S cluster in the wild-type protein was found to be extremely oxygen-labile. In addition, molecular-sieve chromatographic analysis showed that the majority of the anoxically purified protein was a dimer as compared to aerobically purified FNR which is a monomer. The loss of the Fe-S cluster by exposure to oxygen was associated with a conversion to the monomeric form and decreased DNA binding. Taken together, these observations suggest that oxygen regulates the activity of wild-type FNR through the lability of the Fe-S cluster to oxygen.
Utility of initial prehospital end-tidal carbon dioxide measurements to predict poor outcomes in adult asthmatic patients.

AbstractStudy objective. To determine if an initial (before treatment) prehospital end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) measurement in adult, non-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthmatic patients predicts patient outcomes. Methods. This is a retrospective chart review of EtCO2 assessment data in a convenience sample of adult, asthmatic patients transported via advanced life support (ALS) units to a large, urban, academic hospital. Initial EtCO2 measurements were obtained routinely on all respiratory distress patients in the field, and emergency department physicians were unaware of the results. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentages, means, and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results. We reviewed data for prehospital initial EtCO2 measurements on 299 unique asthma patients (repeat visits by same patient were not included). Mean (SD) age was 43.1 years (12.5) and 142 (47.5%) were male. The mean EtCO2 measurement was 38.8 mmHg (SD ± 9.5; CI: 37.7–39.9; range: 14–82)...
Impacts of Water Column Turbidity on the Survival and Growth of Vallisneria americana Winterbuds and Seedlings

ABSRACT Survival and growth of Vallisneria americana winterbuds was significantly related to both initial winterbud size and to the water column turbidity under which the plants were grown. Larger winter buds showed better survival and better growth than did smaller ones. Turbidity likewise significantly impacted the survival and growth of the plants. Over the turbidity range of 0.2–45 NTU (53–7% total incident light), the plants were shown to have progressively poorer survival and to produce fewer rosettes and total number of leaves. Vallisneria americana seedlings were likewise influenced by turbidity. Under high turbidity conditions the seedlings had significantly higher mortality, while surviving plants produced fewer rosettes and accumulated less biomass than seedlings grown under low turbidity conditions. In addition, under turbid conditions the seedlings had to invest proportionally more energy into above-ground tissues.
New, angle-independent, low cost Doppler system to measure blood flow.

Abstract Background: A new Doppler flowmeter using a special transducer forming two ultrasound beams to insonate vessels was developed. This low-cost flowmeter allows the flow to be measured independently of the angle of insonation. Methods: Sixty-five flow determinations were made in the carotid arteries of five pigs. The flowmeter measured the flow in an artery bled into a calibrated vessel. Results were compared with the true volume of the blood captured. Results: On average, 13 measurements per animal were made at different flow rates (80 to 600 mL/min). The flowmeter measured flow-volume rates in mL/min were found to be within ± 15% of the cylinder captured volume. Conclusions: The accuracy of the angle-independent flowmeter is comparable with that of flowmeters currently used clinically. The small size and portability, low operator dependency, and low cost suggest potential for continuous acute and chronic-flow monitoring and a potential for an implantable flow-monitoring device.
Homeless Alcoholic Women on Skid Row

Studies of homeless alcoholic women remain tare. Women on Skid Row in New York City were sought out at the Women's Shelter for a study of homeless women alcoholics. The findings in this study of 31 homeless alcoholic women tend to confirm an earlier study by Garrett and Bahr in most respects. A major difference relates to the population's lack of homogeneity. A life-long pattern of marginality does not exist for most of the women. All judged to be alcoholic, some lived with their families, husbands, or a male partner prior to coming to the shelter. Almost a third lived alone. Sometimes the death of someone close or other crisis precipitated homelessness. In many instances there was no apparent crisis. For a substantial group of these women there did seem to be a longstanding pattern of instability and transient living in the two years preceding their move to the shelter. Public resources invested in shelter care are much needed either for individuals whose limited resources run out or where a crisis resul...
Comparative evaluation of 6/8 and 6/10 switched reluctance machines for traction application in Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Switched reluctance machine (SRM) is an attractive candidate for traction applications owing to its simple structure, robustness to harsh operating conditions and wide extended speed constant power range. Conventional SRM has higher number of stator poles than the rotor poles. Configurations with higher number of rotor poles using the new pole design (PD) formula, takes SRM one step further in traction applications by improving its output torque with lower torque ripple. However, higher number of rotor poles brings important geometrical restrictions on the dimensions of the machine. This paper compares two possible 3 phase SRM configurations with higher number of rotor poles to have more flexible design in geometry. The effect of decrease in the number of rotor poles is investigated using finite element analysis on the performance and volume of a 5hp SRM model for a traction application.
Resonant cavity enhanced GaInAsSb-AlAsSb photodetector grown by MBE for mid-IR applications

Resonant cavity enhanced photodetectors based on GaInAsSb-AlAsSb grown by MBE have been successfully fabricated and characterized to operate at near 2 /spl mu/m wavelength range. By incorporating a 10-pair lattice matched AlAsSb-GaSb quarter wavelength reflector, strong cavity enhancement of photoresponse and post-growth selectivity of the resonant wavelength have been realized. The photodetectors have shown record setting room temperature performance with a maximum quantum efficiency of /spl eta/=85%, a peak responsivity of R=1.3 A/W and a detectivity D* of 1.35/spl times/10/sup 10/ cm Hz/sup 1/2/ W/sup -1/ at -0.5-V bias at resonant wavelength.
Connections in context: the Intermedia systems

Intermedia is a hypermedia system developed for use in university research and teaching. It provides a framework for object-oriented, direct-manipulation editors and applications, and the capability to link materials created with those applications. Instructors are able to construct explanatory environments for their students as well as use applications for their day-to-day work, research, and writing. A general discussion of hypermedia is followed by a description of the Intermedia system. The description focuses on several important user-interface features and illustrates the operation of the system through a sample session. It is shown how object-oriented programming techniques and a complementary set of software development tools helped programmers work together and maintain a consistent user-interface throughout the system. >
Relative Critical Points

Relative equilibria of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian systems with symmetry are critical points of appropriate scalar functions parametrized by the Lie algebra (or its dual) of the symmetry group. Setting aside the structures { symplectic, Poisson, or variational { generating dynamical systems from such functions highlights the common features of their construction and analysis, and supports the construction of analogous functions in non- Hamiltonian settings. If the symmetry group is nonabelian, the functions are invariant only with respect to the isotropy subgroup of the given parameter value. Replacing the parametrized family of functions with a single function on the product manifold and ex- tending the action using the (co)adjoint action on the algebra or its dual yields a fully invariant function. An invariant map can be used to reverse the usual perspective: rather than selecting a parametrized family of functions and finding their critical points, condi- tions under which functions will be critical on specific orbits, typically distinguished by isotropy class, can be derived. This strategy is illustrated using several well-known mecha- nical systems { the Lagrange top, the double spherical pendulum, the free rigid body, and the Riemann ellipsoids { and generalizations of these systems.
Effects of Porcine Follicular Fluid and Oviduct-Conditioned Media on Maturation and Fertilization of Porcine Oocytes In Vitro

Advances in porcine in vitro fertilization have been impaired by low normal fertilization rates resulting from a high rate of polyspermy. The present study was undertaken to determine the effects of porcine follicular fluid (pFF) and oviductal explant-conditioned medium on maturation and fertilization of porcine oocytes in vitro. Oocytes and pFF were collected from small, medium, and large follicles and pooled within size category. Maturation and fertilization media were supplemented (10%) with either fetal calf serum (FCS) or pFF (either fresh or snap-frozen). Snap-frozen pFF from small (3.1-5.0 mm) and medium (5.1-7 mm) follicles, respectively, increased maturation rates of oocytes from small and medium follicles by nearly 36% (p 0.05). We conclude that snap-frozen follicular fluid from medium follicles and CM from cultured oviducts of periovulatory gilts improve in vitro maturation, reduce polyspermy, and increase normal fertilization rates in vitro.