cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling and Shape Control of Composite Beams with Embedded Piezoelectric Actuators

A mathematical model based on a layerwise theory is developed for laminated composite beams with piezoelectric actuators. The one-dimensional beam formulation also accounts for lateral strains. A finite element model is developed. Voltages applied to the actuators are assumed to be specified. The accuracy of the model and the computer code is validated with the available solutions in the literature. Various parametric studies are conducted to demonstrate the influence of boundary conditions, ply orientation, etc., on the change in shapes of laminated beams with piezoelectric actuators.
The fine structure of the helium arc spectrum

Ever since its discovery the spectrum of helium has been thought to consist of singlets and doublets. Recently, however, spectroscopic theory has indicated that it should consist of singlets and triplets since helium is a two-electron system. Various attempts have been made to resolve the doublets into triplets,(1) but up to the present there have been no conclusive results. Within the last few months interest has been revived in these lines by the theoretical work of Heisenberg,(2) which predicts a triplet structure with unusual separation ratios. It is now possible to show that the helium lines really have a structure similar to that predicted by Heisenberg.
Quantitative examination of mechanophysical tumor cell enrichment in fine-needle aspiration specimens.

BACKGROUND The advent of cDNA microarrays and other molecular technologies necessitates the acquisition of tumor cell-enriched material because nonmalignant cells often decrease the sensitivity of the assays. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) specimens from carcinoma have long been noted to be enriched in malignant cells. The current study quantitated the relative representation of tumor versus nontumor cells in FNA specimens compared with tissue sections using breast carcinoma as a model. METHODS Five patients who had undergone both a diagnostic FNA and a surgical excision for breast carcinoma between January and July of 1996 were selected. Five random cellular fields from representative slides of the FNA (using the ThinPrep preparation of the wash) and surgical excision specimens were photographed digitally at ×20 power. The cells were judged as tumor or nontumor cells and then were counted manually in each field. RESULTS The calculated percentage of malignant cells in the FNA specimen (as represented on the ThinPrep slide) ranged from 66–93% compared with the calculated percentage of 37–78% noted in histologic sections. The average of all 5 fields from all 5 cases showed that 83.1% of the total cells were malignant in the ThinPrep preparation compared with 62.3% in the histologic sections. This difference was highly statistically significant when analyzed using the chi-square test (P = 0.0009). CONCLUSIONS The percentage of malignant cells on FNA specimens from breast carcinoma, as assessed by ThinPrep, was found to be significantly higher than that obtained by surgical excision. The results of the current study quantitatively confirm the impression of practicing cytopathologists, but also suggest that FNA will provide a good substrate for cDNA microarray and other molecular analyses. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2002;96:275–9. © 2002 American Cancer Society.
Utility of Virtual Bronchoscopy-Guided Transbronchial Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Sarcoidosis: Report of Two Cases

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown etiology that usually affects the lungs. Although flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy with transbronchial lung biopsy (TBBx) has a high diagnostic yield in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis, variously ranging from 40 to 90%, more invasive procedures often prove necessary. We report two cases of successful diagnosis of pulmonary sarcoidosis using a new technique that may increase the accuracy of TBBx. Previously described for diagnosis of peripheral lung cancer, this technique relies on real-time virtual bronchoscopic guidance to biopsy preselected peripheral areas of the lung preferentially affected by the disease using a pediatric bronchoscope. In each case, while procedures were performed under direct CT guidance allowing precise confirmation of the tip of the biopsy catheter, it is anticipated that this technique will be primarily used as a guide to bronchoscopic biopsies without the need for direct CT guidance, thus increasing routine utilization of multidetector low-dose high-resolution CT to improve histologic diagnosis.
Periodic solutions of the Einstein equations for binary systems.

This revision includes clarified exposition and simplified analysis. Solutions of the Einstein equations which are periodic and have standing gravitational waves are valuable approximations to more physically realistic solutions with outgoing waves. A variational principle is found which has the power to provide an accurate estimate of the relationship between the mass and angular momentum of the system, the masses and angular momenta of the components, the rotational frequency of the frame of reference in which the system is periodic, the frequency of the periodicity of the system, and the amplitude and phase of each multipole component of gravitational radiation. Examination of the boundary terms of the variational principle leads to definitions of the effective mass and effective angular momentum of a periodic geometry which capture the concepts of mass and angular momentum of the source alone with no contribution from the gravitational radiation. These effective quantities are surface integrals in the weak-field zone which are independent of the surface over which they are evaluated, through second order in the deviations of the metric from flat space.
And How Are We Supposed to Pay for Health Care? Views of the Poor and the Near Poor on Welfare Reform

The welfare reform debate focuses on the characteristics of who gets government benefits and who pays for them. People perceive the welfare reform debate as the white middle class denying benefits to poor people of color. But larger questions regarding the U.S. lack of comprehensive social policy for health care, education, and child care lurk behind these concerns. Drawing on research with public assistance recipients and working- and middle-class people, in this paper I explore the ways that people interact with and perceive government social programs. I argue that both attitudes and proposed solutions toward welfare reflect different access to government programs and resources such as jobs, savings, and social supports among people who have and have not accessed welfare. Since economic disparity in the United States correlates highly with race, the debate over welfare reform also involves racial attitudes. Changing both the welfare debate and poverty in the United States must start by providing universal benefits, [public policy, poverty, welfare reform, race, United States]
PREVALENCE OF α-THALASSEMIA (α-THAL) IN CHILDREN WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE (SS) AND CEREBROVASCULAR ACCIDENT (CVA)

The presence of α-thal in patients with sickle cell disease may favorably alter clinical course and improve survival. The suggestion by Piomelli, et al (Ped Res 20;Abs 778,1986) that a decreased incidence of early, usually thrombotic, CVA may play a role in improving survival prompted us to ascertain the α-globin gene status of our SS population with CVA. Restriction endonuclease analysis using BamHI and BglII was performed on blood of 16 patients ranging in age from 2-10 years(mean 7yrs) at the time of CVA. Fourteen patients had the normal alpha-4 genotype and 2(12.5%) had a single gene “rightward” deletion. One α-thal SS patient developed a left hemiparesis and CAT scan evidence of bilateral infarction at age 27 mos., 2½ mos. after completing a year of regular transfusion for recurrent acute splenic sequestration; hemoglobin at the time of CVA was 7.2gm/dl. In spite of chronic transfusion therapy, she suffered a transient ischemia attack with right hemiparesis 6 years later related to acute anemia(hgb 6.6gm/dl), viral illness, and an enlarged spleen. The other patient with a single gene deletion and SS has done well on regular transfusion since presenting with right hemiparesis at age 7 yrs; hgb was 7.9 gm/dl and MCV 82 fl prior to CVA. The presence of α-thal does not preclude the possibility of CVA in young SS patients; large series with appropriate controls will be required to ascertain the degree to which the risk of CVA maybe reduced.
Cation-dependent light-induced structural changes in visual receptor membranes.

Abstract A stearamide spin probe was used to study the light-induced structural changes in Rod Outer Segment Membranes in the presence of sodium and calcium ions. The correlation time (τC) for the reorientation of the probe was calculated in the dark and light. In the presence of sodium ions, τC = 3.3 × 10−9 sec in the dark, and 2.7 × 10−9sec in the light while the opposite was noticed in the presence of calcium ions, τC = 2.9 × 10−9 sec in the dark and 3.6 × 10−9 sec in the light. The correlation times for reorientation of the probe were also calculated in aqueous glycerol solutions of varying viscosities at 20°C. Comparison of the values of τC (dark and light) suggests a change in local mobility in the ROS corresponding to a macroscopic viscosity difference of approximately 150 cp. The significance of calcium ion interaction with negatively charged groups and the formation of a Schiff base is emphasized.
Effect of chlortetracycline on chick thyroid size.

SummaryChlortetracycline was fed to chicks at levels of 10, 50, 500, and 1000 mg/ kilo of diet. The data show that this treatment significantly increased the size of the thyroid gland. Examination of the data by regression analysis gave b-values to show that antibiotic dosage up to 100 mg/kilo of diet was correlated to increase in thyroid size. Increasing the antibiotic dosage above this level did not increase the thyroid size at the same rate. Since the growth of the chicks was not depressed and the thyroid was not enlarged as much as it was when thiouracil was fed, it appears that chlortetracycline did not duplicate the action of thiouracil.
A Complex, Nonlinear Dynamic Systems Perspective on Ayurveda and Ayurvedic Research

Abstract The fields of complexity theory and nonlinear dynamic systems (NDS) are relevant for analyzing the theory and practice of Ayurvedic medicine from a Western scientific perspective. Ayurvedic definitions of health map clearly onto the tenets of both systems and complexity theory and focus primarily on the preservation of organismic equanimity. Health care research informed by NDS and complexity theory would prioritize (1) ascertaining patterns reflected in whole systems as opposed to isolating components; (2) relationships and dynamic interaction rather than static end-points; (3) transitions, change and cumulative effects, consistent with delivery of therapeutic packages in the reality of the clinical setting; and (4) simultaneously exploring both local and global levels of healing phenomena. NDS and complexity theory are useful in examining nonlinear transitions between states of health and illness; the qualitative nature of shifts in health status; and looking at emergent properties and behavior...
Prevention of an Initial Infestation of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis in Channel Catfish and Blue Tilapia by Potassium Permanganate Treatment

Abstract Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) has been used to control infestations of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, but its effectiveness has not been reported from controlled efficacy studies. The purpose of this study was to determine the acute toxicity of KMnO4 to the I. multifiliis theront and the concentration needed to prevent an initial infestation of I. multifiliis in juvenile channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus and blue tilapia Tilapia aurea. Ichthyophthirius multifiliis theronts were exposed to concentrations of KMnO4 in 100 μL of well water in 96-well plates and observed for 4 h to determine the acute toxicity. A concentration of 0.9 mg KMnO4/L caused greater than 95% mortality of the theronts in 4 h in well water; the 4-h LC50 (concentration lethal to 50% of test animals) value was estimated to be 0.77 mg/L. Juvenile channel catfish were exposed to 10,000 theronts/L of well water and immediately treated with a single dose of KMnO4. Infestation occurred in controls 6 d after exposure. The lowest eff...
Audio-frequency electromagnetic hiss recorded at Boulder in 1956

More than half of the important magnetic disturbances of the year were marked by the reception of a hissing noise at some time during the storm. A report of the general characteristics of the noise, a description of the recording and analysis methods used, and examples of the types of record presentation are given.
Early diagnosis of autism through analysis of pre-speech vocalizations

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that typically appears before age of three years old. The narrower term of autism always refers to classic autistic disorder in the spectrum of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). In this paper, "autism" and "autistic" are all used to refer to the entire range of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Collateral damage on the home front: The gulf in America

Combat casualties in the Persian Gulf War among Coalition troops were by all estimates miraculously low. However, the fallout of the war for many groups on the home front may have been more pernicious in the long term than expected or estimated. This paper sketches some of the consequences of the Persian Gulf War for racial and ethnic minorities in the military, the less tangible and visible affects on the young, and the exacerbation of tensions in terms of social distress between the government and the media in the coverage of the campaign in Kuwait.
Big box stores and obesity

This article examines whether obesity prevalence is influenced by the market structure of retail food outlets. A few studies have examined the effects of ‘big box’ stores on prices, food choices and obesity, but the present study extends empirical examination to all types of stores to determine if there are significant differences in their effects on obesity prevalence. Four types of retail food outlets are examined: supermarkets, supercentres and warehouse club stores (i.e. ‘big box’ stores), convenience stores and specialty stores. Counties with more retail food stores experience lower prevalence of adult obesity, but this inverse relationship appears to stem from greater numbers of supermarkets and specialty food stores. Obesity prevalence is positively associated with market shares of ‘big box’ and convenience stores.
Surgeon’s 30-Day Outcomes Supporting the Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy versus Stenting Trial

Importance While the Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy Versus Stenting Trial (CREST) has been widely accepted as a landmark trial establishing an equivalent risk of major adverse events following carotid endarterectomy (CEA) or carotid artery stenting (CAS), the applicability of these findings to single centers has been questioned owing to the rigid selection criteria for investigators in the study. Although refuted by the findings of a subsequent study, a substudy of CREST established a higher periprocedural stroke rate for CAS when the surgeon was a vascular surgeon. Objective To present our 30-day results of stroke, death, myocardial infarction, and composite major adverse events to determine if a single vascular surgeon’s outcomes at our hospital are consistent with the results of CREST. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective analysis of patients with high-grade carotid artery stenosis treated with CEA or CAS by a vascular surgeon at our institution from September 9, 2005, through December 17, 2012, was performed. A χ 2 analysis was used to compare the incidence of specific high-risk patient characteristics in each group. The Fisher exact test was used to compare the risks of stroke, death, myocardial infarction, and composite major adverse events between CEA and CAS. These results were then compared with those reported in CREST. Results A total of 182 cases (94 CAS and 88 CEA) performed by a single vascular surgeon were included for analysis. While in CREST the periprocedural risk of stroke was higher following CAS (4.1% vs 2.3%, P = .01) and the risk of myocardial infarction was higher following CEA (2.3% vs 1.1%, P = .03), there was no significant difference in the incidence of these outcomes between the 2 treatment modalities in our study. When compared with CREST, our rates of myocardial infarction, stroke, death, and composite adverse events (CEA, 4.5% vs 3.4%; P = .79; CAS, 5.2% vs 4.3%; P >.99) were no different. Conclusions and Relevance Similar to CREST, the 30-day risk of composite major adverse events was equivalent for the 2 treatment modalities. We attribute our comparable incidence of perioperative stroke with CAS and CEA to improved patient selection. We excluded most patients older than 80 years and those with complex anatomy from consideration for CAS. Our results confirm those of CREST and demonstrate that both CEA and CAS can be performed safely by a vascular surgeon in properly selected patients.
Telomerase: a potential therapeutic target for cancer.

Telomeres are complex structures which serve to protect chromosome ends. Telomere shortening occurs in normal somatic cells reaching a point in which cells senesce. Senescence can be counteracted by activating telomerase. Telomerase activity is present in a majority of cancer cells and requires the upregulation of the reverse transcriptase component called hTERT. Because telomerase activity is essential for proliferation of most cancer cells, therapeutic strategies have been developed to inhibit its activity. These strategies centre on targeting the active site, hTERT and hTERC expression, core enzyme stability and telomeric DNA. Successful approaches involve a combination of traditional drugs with telomerase inhibitors. Disrupting the functional expression of hTERT is particularly effective in agreement with evidence that hTERT is an antiapoptotic factor in some cancer cells. In addition, approaches that stabilise DNA secondary structures may disrupt telomere maintenance through a variety of routes makin...
Research on the frontiers of materials science: The impact of nanotechnology on new material development

Abstract Materials continue to play a dominant role in our society, as they have through the millennia. The developments in nanotechnology provide a unique opportunity to not only develop new classes of materials but also do so in harmony with a goal of sustainable development. There is, however, a large gap between the promise of nanotechnology and its integration into a new generation of nano-enabled products. The first half of this paper focuses on the promise of nanotechnology by exploring a novel, self-assembly based technique for the production of structural ceramics, which have the potential to dramatically affect a range of products such as power turbines and aircraft engines. In the second half of the paper examines some of the challenges in setting up a nano-engineered value chain, which is critical for a new generation of nano-enabled products.
Absorption coefficient of wurtzite GaN calculated from an empirical tight binding model

Abstract The linear absorption coefficient for polarizations parallel and perpendicular to the c-axis of wurtzite GaN is calculated by integrating the momentum matrix element over the full Brillouin zone using a fundamental numerical technique. The energy band structure and wave functions required for this calculation are obtained using an sp3d5–sp3 empirical tight-binding method (ETBM) that includes the spin–orbit and up to second-nearest-neighbor interactions. The model reproduces the selection rules expected from symmetry considerations.
Quantitative Trait Loci: Methods and Protocols

In the past few decades, quantitative-trait approaches to the analysis of genetic disorders have become widely utilized. This type of approach is used in order to better characterize the phenotypic variation in and evolution of human traits. This book is a comprehensive and up-to-date resource for the analysis of quantitative-trait loci (QTL) for any investigator, regardless of his or her background. QTLs in humans, rodents, and agricultural settings are included, although, for the purposes of this review, only the section about humans will be discussed (i.e., Part 1). Included in Part 1 are six chapters, each focusing on a different type of analysis used for the mapping and detection of QTLs. Because the editors have chosen a group of statistical geneticists who are all studying human QTL analysis, the information in this book is very current for a field that is constantly changing. Not only is the book comprehensive in the sense that it covers the theory behind association studies, parametric and nonparametric linkage analysis, linkage and association tests, and joint linkage and segregation analysis, but included in every chapter is a demonstration of that particular analysis, using available computer software. Each chapter begins with a discussion of the theoretical basis of a particular analysis, followed by an applied section in which an example using available software is executed, using real study data. The theoretical discussions are well written and easy to read for the nonmathematician. The applied section of each chapter provides explicit details about how to prepare the files for each piece of software being demonstrated, as well as how to interpret the results. At the end of each chapter is a notes section, in which specific theoretical issues are elaborated upon and helpful hints are given for more efficient use of the software used in that chapter. Of particular interest is the fourth chapter of Part 1, entitled “Nonparametric Linkage Analysis: II. Variance Components,” written by Angela J. Marlow, in which three of the predominant software packages (GENEHUNTER, SOLAR, and ACT) for variance components analysis are compared and contrasted through use of simulated data from Genetic Analysis Workshop 10. Even though all other chapters (i.e., chapters 1–3, 5, and 6) mention that there are multiple software packages available for use, only one program is used in each chapter for that specific analysis. For the researcher interested in choosing an appropriate program to use for his or her study, a software comparison for each type of analysis would have been helpful. On the whole, this is an excellent resource for the mathematician wishing to review QTL analysis, as well as for the nonmathematician with no experience in this type of analysis.
Cross sections for 2H(3He, 3He) and 2H(3He, 4He) at 7 to 18 MeV centre-of-mass energy

Abstract Differential cross section angular distributions for 3 He+ 2 H elastic scattering and for the 2 H( 3 He, 4 He) 1 H reaction have been measured at many energies between 7 and 18 MeV c.m. energy. A search for evidence of excited states of the compound nucleus, 5 Li, was made by observing the excitation functions for these processes. No evidence of 5 Li excited states was found. The region searched corresponds to 5 Li excitation energies of 23 to 34 MeV.
Schmoozing and Smiting: Trust, Social Institutions, and Communication Patterns in an MMOG

This study examines how trust is related to online social institutions, self-disclosure, mode of communication, and message privacy in a popular MMOG, Everquest II. The findings, based on survey and behavioral data from over 3,500 players, illustrate how MMOGs may support trust development. Trust was higher within closer social circles: trust was highest in teammates, followed by other players across the game, followed by others online. Self-disclosure was positively related to trust of teammates and others in the game, while voice chat was only related to teammate trust. These findings indicate that social structures and communication processes contribute to trust development in MMOGs, supporting the claim that these online spaces provide social support that is unavailable in other societal realms.
Is cross-cultural training of expatriate managers effective: A meta analysis☆

Abstract Conflicting views exist among corporate leaders and academicians on the effectiveness of cross-cultural training. The studies examining this effect have produced conflicting results, and reviews of such studies have failed to quantify the true effect of cross-cultural training. This study uses the Hunter-Schmidt meta-analytical framework to examine the effects of cross-cultural training on the effectiveness of expatriate managers on five criteria (self-development, perception, relationship, adjustment, and performance). This study provides the support academicians need to show corporate leaders the usefulness and necessity of such training by deciphering the true effects of these programs. This study also shows how utility analysis can be used to assess the dollar value of these programs to organizations. Potential problems in current cross-cultural training research are also discussed.
The effect of preferential diffusion on soot formation in a laminar ethylene/air diffusion flame

The influence of preferential diffusion on soot formation in a laminar ethylene/air diffusion flame was investigated by numerical simulation using three different transport property calculation methods. One simulation included preferential diffusion and the other two neglected preferential diffusion. The results show that the neglect of preferential diffusion or the use of unity Lewis number for all species results in a significant underprediction of soot volume fraction. The peak soot volume fraction is reduced from 8.0 to 2.0 ppm for the studied flame when preferential diffusion is neglected in the simulation. Detailed examination of numerical results reveals that the underprediction of soot volume fraction in the simulation neglecting preferential diffusion is due to the slower diffusion of some species from main reaction zone to PAH and soot formation layer. The slower diffusion of these species causes lower PAH formation rate and thus results in lower soot inception rate and smaller particle surface ...
Percutaneous Placement and Management of Peritoneovenous Shunts

Peritoneovenous shunts are used in the treatment of recurrent ascites or recurrent pleural effusions. Generally speaking, the shunts allow passage of ascites or pleural effusions (by either passive or active means) back into the central venous system. The most recent development in peritoneovenous shunts, known as the Denver Shunt, is a modification of a shunt developed for the treatment of hydrocephalus. In recent years, the Denver shunt has been placed by interventional radiologists. It is used to treat both cirrhotic and malignant effusions in the peritoneal and pleural cavities. Reported complications of the shunt are shunt occlusion, infection, post-shunt coagulopathy, deep vein thrombosis, catheter breakage, and leaks. This article discusses the technical aspects related to the percutaneous placement and maintenance of the Denver Shunt.
A combustion model for IC engine combustion simulations with multi-component fuels

Abstract Reduced chemical kinetic mechanisms for the oxidation of representative surrogate components of a typical multi-component automotive fuel have been developed and applied to model internal combustion engines. Starting from an existing reduced mechanism for primary reference fuel (PRF) oxidation, further improvement was made by including additional reactions and by optimizing reaction rate constants of selected reactions. Using a similar approach to that used to develop the reduced PRF mechanism, reduced mechanisms for the oxidation of n-tetradecane, toluene, cyclohexane, dimethyl ether (DME), ethanol, and methyl butanoate (MB) were built and combined with the PRF mechanism to form a multi-surrogate fuel chemistry (MultiChem) mechanism. The final version of the MultiChem mechanism consists of 113 species and 487 reactions. Validation of the present MultiChem mechanism was performed with ignition delay time measurements from shock tube tests and predictions by comprehensive mechanisms available in the literature. A combustion model was developed to simulate engine combustion with multi-component fuels using the present MultiChem mechanism, and the model was applied to simulate HCCI and DI engine combustion. The results show that the present multi-component combustion model gives reliable performance for combustion predictions, as well as computational efficiency improvements through the use of reduced mechanism for multi-dimensional CFD simulations.
Impact testing of silicon-micromachined beams

Anisotropically etched silicon structures were impacted against stainless steel to measure relative impact strength of different silicon surface treatments. In order to study the effects of surface treatment, the beams were coated with thermal silicon dioxide, LPCVD silicon nitride, and silicon dioxide/silicon nitride sandwich. A jig was made to controllably impact the sample and also measure the stresses during impact. It was found that silicon-dioxide treatment resulted in the highest strength structures and the nitride coated samples being weaker than even the uncoated sample. An explanation based on surface stress effect on crack initiation is presented.
Photolysis of poly‐α‐methylstyrene

The photodegradation of thin films of poly-α-methylstyrene by near ultraviolet radiation has been studied in vacuum at 27 and 115°C. Changes taking place during photolysis were followed by a determination of monomer formation by ultraviolet spectroscopy, residue molecular weight through a measurement of intrinsic viscosity, and volatile products by mass spectroscopy. Gross features of the photolysis include random chain scission in the polymer with subsequent depolymerization of the radicals formed to yield small amounts of monomer; the kinetic chain length is on the order of 15 in the temperature range studied. Quantum yields at 27°C. for chain scission and monomer formation are 1 × 10−3 and 7 × 10−3, respectively. At 115°C. the quantum yields are 2 × 10-2 and 0.5. Small quantities of hydrogen, CO2, CO, and a number of hydrocarbons were liberated during irradiation. An approximate one-to-one correlation between the number of main chain scissions and CO2 + CO molecules evolved was found, suggesting the occurrence of chain scission at weak linkages involving oxygen.
Accurate and efficient testing of the exponential and logarithm functions

Table-driven techniques can be used to test highly accurate implementation of EXP LOG. The largest error observeed in EXP and LOG accurately to within 1/500 unit in the last place are reported in our tests. Methods to verify the tests' reliability are discussed. Results of applying the tests to our own as well as to a number of other implementations of EXP and LOG are presented.
Activity and safety of bortezomib in multiple myeloma patients with advanced renal failure: a multicenter retrospective study

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) frequently present with concomitant renal dysfunction, and those requiring dialysis have particularly poor outcomes. Bortezomib is a reversible proteasome inhibitor with significant activity in MM. This retrospective case analysis evaluated the feasibility and activity of bortezomib-based therapy in MM patients (n = 24) requiring dialysis support for advanced renal failure. All but 1 patient were undergoing dialysis at the time of therapy. Patients received bortezomib alone or bortezomib-based combination therapy. Among 20 patients with available response data, overall response rate (complete response [CR] + partial response) was 75%, with 30% CR + near CR. One patient was spared dialysis, and 3 other patients became independent of dialysis following bortezomib-based treatment. These encouraging results suggest that bortezomib or bortezomib-based regimens can be used in MM patients requiring dialysis, with manageable toxicities. Further studies will more formally evaluate the impact of bortezomib-based regimens in this patient population.
Sheep Ingestion of Water Containing Quebracho or Black Wattle Tannin

Abstract Ingestion of small amounts of condensed tannin (CT) by ruminants can produce valuable outcomes such as improved nitrogen use and reduced bloating, methane output, and gastrointestinal parasitism. However, many grasses and forbs contain little if any CT. The specific types of CT vary in plants and can have somewhat different effects on ruminants. Individual ruminants can respond differently to CT intake. Not all livestock will consistently consume supplements while grazing, but they all usually drink water daily. Therefore, in order to determine how sheep would respond to CT in their drinking water, eight lambs with the same initial weight of 43 kg were individually penned, fed alfalfa pellets twice daily, and had ad libitum access to two waters. Water intake was measured daily. After an adjustment period to pens, feeding, watering conditions, and water containing CT, three sequential week-long trials were conducted. In Trial 1, lambs chose between tap water and a quebracho tannin (QT)–water mixture (0.19% QT w/w; ca. 1% dry matter intake of QT). In Trial 2, lambs chose between tap water and a QT–water mixture of lower concentration (0.14% QT w/w). In Trial 3, lambs chose between a QT–water mixture and a wattle tannin–water mixture, both with the same concentration (0.14% CT w/w). In Trials 1 and 2, lambs had inconsistent intakes of tannin water and tap water from day to day ( P ≤ 0.02) and neither preferred nor avoided tannin solutions. They also had inconsistent daily intakes of the two different tannin solutions offered simultaneously ( P = 0.01), and showed no preference for either tannin solution ( P ≥ 0.15). Results support other observations that sheep will voluntarily consume water with small amounts of CT in it, and provide no evidence that sheep prefer consuming small amounts of QT vs. black wattle tannin in water.
Adjunctive Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing Is a Useful Option in Some Clinical Settings for Disease Risk Assessment and Triage of Females With ASC-H Papanicolaou Test Results

Abstract Context.—Recent guidelines recommend colposcopy for women with atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H). Objective.—To determine whether a...
Differential accumulation of mRNA and interspersed RNA during Xenopus oogenesis and embrypgenesis

Xenopus ooctye cytoplasmic poly(A)+ RNA has been shown to include two major complex classes: mRNA and interspersed RNA. the former is defined by its translatalility, the latter consists of non–translatable repeat–containing transcripts with unknown functions. In this study we compared the accumulation patterns of total mRNA and a subfamily of interspersed RNA, the XR family (McGrew&Richter, 1989, Dev. Biot. 134, 267–70)
Defect correction method for viscoelastic fluid flows at high Weissenberg number

We study a defect correction method for the approximation of viscoelastic fluid flow. In the defect step, the constitutive equation is computed with an artificially reduced Weissenberg parameter for stability, and the resulting residual is corrected in the correction step. We prove the convergence of the defect correction method and derive an error estimate for the Oseen-viscoelastic model problem. The derived theoretical results are supported by numerical tests for both the Oseen-viscoelastic problem and the Johnson-Segalman model problem. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 21: 000‐000, 2005
Reflexive Ecclesiology: A Challenge to Applied Research in Religious Organizations

This essay addresses the issue of applied research in, on, and for religious organizations, especially trends in how research has been carried out in relation to religious organizations. It asks how applied research has changed, and what are the implications for the larger field of social scientific research. The essay begins with some general comments about the challenges that face religious organizations in a post-traditional world that require reflexive monitoring of their traditions and ecclesial practices if these organizations are to survive and engage the future in a significant way. Applied research is defined as one form of reflexive monitoring and includes both (1) research commissioned by leaders of religious organization as an aid for understanding a particular situation or shaping policy or programs, and (2) research that, though not commissioned by religious organizations, has as its primary intent providing religious organizations with policy-relevant information. Using this definition, the essay then traces trends in applied research from the earlier part of the twentieth century to the present, focusing especially on the past fifty years. It concludes with an assessment of these research efforts as examples of reflexive monitoring.
The Effect of Adsorbed Molecule Gas-Phase Deprotonation Enthalpy on Ion Exchange in Sodium Exchanged Zeolites: An In Situ FTIR Investigation

Molecular-level understanding of the interactions between reactants and the surface of solid catalysts is of importance to the rational design of catalysts. Here, in situ transmission Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy is employed to investigate the ion exchange between the acidic hydrogen in organic molecules that have been adsorbed from the gas phase and sodium cations in zeolites. Organic compounds with functional groups common among key biomass-derived compounds are used as probe molecules. We demonstrate that ion exchange between acidic hydrogen in organic molecules and the sodium cations in zeolites with the FAU topology produces Bronsted acid sites and the corresponding adsorbed salt species by identifying signature spectroscopic bands. Furthermore, the gas-phase deprotonation enthalpy (GPDE) of the organic compounds is identified as a key descriptor in determining the feasibility and extent of the exchange process. Molecules with GPDE below 1462 kJ/mol, e.g., m-cresol (1462 kJ/mol), propanoic acid (1454), acetic acid (1457), acrylic acid (1440) and trifluoroacetic acid (1357), show clear vibrational bands for Bronsted acid sites and the corresponding sodium salts, while molecules with higher GPDE, such as trifluoroethanol (1513), ethanol (1586), and water (1622) do not. These data indicate that the degree of dissociation of the acidic hydrogen is a key element in the ion exchange. The generality of this process in zeolites is established by the observation of similar results on zeolites with differing topologies (FAU, MFI, *BEA, and MOR).
Why a hermeneutical philosophy of the natural sciences

Why a hermeneutical philosophy of the natural sciences? It is necessary to address the philosophic crisis of realism vs relativism in the natural sciences. This crisis is seen as a part of the cultural crisis that Husserl and Heidegger identified and attributed to the hegemonic role of theoretical and calculative thought in Western societies. The role of theory is addressed using the hermeneutical circle to probe the origin of theoretic meaning in scientific cultural praxes. This is studied in Galileo's discovery of the phases of Venus; the practice of measurement; the different theories and practices of space perception; the historicality and temporality of scientific research communities which ground paradigm change; and the process of discovery. The paper draws particularly from the work of Heidegger. Though envisaging all science and scholarship, the highlighted theme is research in the natural sciences.
The Influence of Preexisting Vascular Disease on the Outcome of Renal Transplantation in Diabetic Patients

We analyzed the impact of prior vascular disease on the outcome of renal transplantation in 99 insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Thirty-three patients (group A) had clinical evidence of vascular disease prior to renal transplantation and 66 patients (group B) had no clinical vascular events in the pretransplant period. The median follow-up in group A patients was 14 months and in group B it was 23 months. The group A patients with preexisting vascular disease had a significant increase in mortality (33%) compared to group B (11%) (A vs. B; p = 0.01). The rate of graft loss was not significantly different between the two groups (45 vs. 42%; p = 0.94). Our data suggest that preexisting clinical vascular disease has a significant negative effect on patient survival in diabetic recipients of cadaver kidney transplants.
A blocking primer increases specificity in environmental DNA detection of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus)

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly applied as a highly sensitive way to detect aquatic animals non-invasively. However, distinguishing closely related taxa can be particularly challenging. Previous studies of ancient DNA and genetic diet analysis have used blocking primers to enrich target template in the presence of abundant, non-target DNA. Here we apply a blocking primer to increase the specificity of a TaqMan assay for eDNA detection of rare and endangered bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in the presence of the closely related (Salvelinus namaycush). We found that addition of a blocking primer substantially increased assay specificity without compromising sensitivity or quantification ability.
A Medical Home for Children with Special Health Care Needs in Rural Locations

Children with special health care needs (CSHCN) present a complex challenge to the medical system. The concept of a medical home has been proposed to ensure consistency and continuity of care for CSHCN. Although it seems to be an easy solution in theory, implementation is complicated especially for the child residing in a rural area. This paper will explore the possibilities to ensure that rural CSHCN have access to a medical home. The characteristics of a medical home include continuity, accessibility, coordination and compassion. A comprehensive focus on the family with attention to cultural needs is critical. Geography, transportation, and financial barriers are present in rural families of CSHCN. In a five-year longitudinal study, Adams and colleagues (2006) found unmet dental, visual, and auditory health needs in school-age children in the rural south. Primary care in general was also identified as an unmet need. Nora Pender‟s model of health promotion (2006) provides a strong framework for assessing and implementing the medical home concept for CSHCN in rural areas. Individual characteristics include the psychological and socio-cultural components of a rural lifestyle. Accessibility issues may prevent optimal health promotion and illness prevention in a CSHCN in a rural area. Using data from the National Survey of CSHCN, Skinner and Slifkin (2007) examined barriers faced by rural families of CSHCN that fit with the behavior specific cognitions and affect described by Pender. Using Pender‟s model of health promotion (2006) provides a successful template for providing a medical home for CSHCN living in rural areas. Involving health care providers, home health agencies and community resources under the leadership of an advanced practice nurse could provide the chemistry needed for success.
Ten-year trends in the incidence, treatment, and outcome of Q-wave myocardial infarction.

Abstract The benefits of coronary reperfusion and antiplatelet therapy for patients with Q-wave acute myocardial infarction (Q-AMI) are well established in the context of randomized, controlled trials. The use and recent impact of these and other therapies on the broader, community-wide population of patients with Q-AMI is less well established. Residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area (1990 census population 437,000) hospitalized with confirmed Q-AMI in all metropolitan Worcester, Massachusetts, hospitals in 4 1-year periods between 1986 and 1997 comprised the sample of interest. We examined the rates of occurrence, use of reperfusion strategies, and hospital mortality in a cohort of 711 patients with Q-AMI treated early in the reperfusion era (1986 and1988) in comparison to 669 patients with Q-AMI treated a decade later (1995 and 1997). The percentage of Q-AMI among all hospitalized patients with AMI decreased over the decade of reperfusion therapy: 52% in 1986 and 1988 versus 35% in 1995 and 1997 (p
Retroviral Vectors Produced in the Cytoplasmic Vaccinia Virus System Transduce Intron-Containing Genes

Introns and polyadenylation (pA) sites are known to improve transcript stability and nuclear-cytoplasmic transport and are normally present in efficient gene expression vectors. Standard retroviral vectors, however, do not allow the inclusion of such sequence elements, as mRNA processing at internal splice and pA sites interferes with the production of functional full-length vector genomes. In this report we examined the capability of hybrid vaccinia/retroviral vectors to transduce complex gene cassettes with nuclear RNA processing signals within the retroviral genome. A retroviral vector was constructed that contains a gene of interest (the human coagulation factor IX [FIX] cDNA), including an intron and an internal pA site. The modified proviral vector genome was cloned downstream of a vaccinia virus promoter and was inserted into the vaccinia virus genome. Infection of a packaging cell line with the recombinant vaccinia virus vector resulted in secretion of retroviral particles at average titers of 10 5 CFU per ml of cell culture supernatant. Due to the cytoplasmic transcription and the nonrecognition of nuclear transcription signals in the vaccinia virus system, full-length transcripts were obtained that still contained the intron. In the retrovirally transduced cell lines the FIX transcripts were terminated at the internal pA site. The transcripts were quantitatively spliced, and FIX was secreted. Recombinant cell lines with stable single-copy inserts containing sequence elements necessary for efficient gene function could be generated. Thus, a relatively simple cytoplasmic system for the generation of complex retroviral vectors is described. Retroviral vectors transducing intron-containing gene cassettes may play a further role in gene therapy applications.
Myocardial infarction after exercise-induced electrocardiographic changes in a patient with variant angina pectoris

Abstract The electrocardiographic response to stress testing varies considerably in patients with variant angina pectoris: no change in the S-T segment as well as S-T segment depression and elevation have been observed. This report describes a patient with a resting ST-T abnormality that reverted to normal appearance with exercise. However, the patient experienced severe chest pain shortly after discontinuing exercise testing, and an electrocardiogram showed evidence of acute anterolateral infarction. The possible implications of such electrocardiographic changes are discussed.
Creating a Patient-Centered Radiology Practice Through the Establishment of a Diagnostic Radiology Consultation Clinic.

OBJECTIVE. The purposes of this study were to assess the feasibility of and to create a referral mechanism for a diagnostic radiology consultation clinic. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. A pilot program was instituted with patients from a single primary care clinic over a 3-week period. Patients with findings of common problems at routine imaging, such as atherosclerosis, emphysema, and hepatic steatosis, were eligible to participate. As the patients arrived for their routine primary care visits, office staff informed them of the opportunity to formally meet with a radiologist to review their most recent imaging findings. The office staff of the primary care clinic then contacted the radiologist covering the diagnostic radiology consultation clinic to schedule a consultation. A survey was administered before and after the session. RESULTS. Twenty-two patients participated (88% participation rate). Participants rated the consultation as very helpful (mean, 4.8 on 1–5 scale), and all participants would take the oppor...