cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial Activity of Kecombrang Flower ( Etlingera elatior (Jack) R.M. Sm) Extract against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes

T his study aimed to determine the antibacterial activity from the ethanol extract of Kecombrang flower ( Etlingera elatior (Jack) R.M. Smith) against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes. The extract was made by the maceration method with 70% ethanol as a solvent. Antibacterial activity test was carried out by the disk diffusion method with a concentration of 10%, 20%, 40%, and80% . Meanwhile, t heMinimum InhibitoryConcentration(MIC)was done atconcentrations of 10%, 8%, 6%, 4%, and 2%. The results showed that the Kecombrang flower ( Etlingera elatior (Jack) R.M.Smith) extract hadantibacterialactivityagainst S.epidermidis and P. acnes. The MIC for S. epidermidis is at a concentration of 4%, while in P.acnes cannot determine yet.
Use of Transcranial Doppler as a Biomarker of CAR T Cell–Related Neurotoxicity

Abstract Objective: To examine the relationship between transcranial doppler (TCD) mean flow velocity (MFV) and the severity and temporal onset of neurotoxicity after chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy in patients with relapsed lymphoma. Methods: We identified a cohort of 165 patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphoma who received CAR T-cell therapy. TCDs were performed at baseline, treatment day 5, and throughout hospitalization based on development of neurologic symptoms. We assessed the percent change in velocity from baseline in each of the 6 major supratentorial arteries, and the relationship of these values to development and timing of neurotoxicity. Results: Our cohort was 30% female with an average age of 60 years. Of patients with TCDs performed, 63% developed neurotoxicity and 32% had severe neurotoxicity. Median time of neurotoxicity onset was day 7. Higher maximum percent change in MFV across all vessels was significantly associated with likelihood of developing neurotoxicity (p = 0.0002) and associated with severe neurotoxicity (p =0.0421). We found that with increased percent change in MFV, the strength of correlation between day of TCD velocity change and day of neurotoxicity onset increased. There was no single vessel in which increase in MFV was associated with neurotoxicity. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates an association between increase in TCD MFV and the development of neurotoxicity, as well as timing of neurotoxicity onset. We believe TCD ultrasound may be utilized as a bedside functional biomarker in CAR T-cell patients and may guide immunologic interventions to manage toxicity in this complex patient group.
Machine Learning for Optimal Copper Doping Profile Design in CdTe Solar Cells

In this work we use machine learning to extract actual Cu doping profiles that result from the process of diffusion annealing and cool-down in the fabrication sequence of CdTe solar cells. We use two deep learning neural network models (Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model using a Keras API with TensorFlow backend and a Radial Basis Function Network (RBFN) model) to predict the Cu doping profiles for different temperatures and duration of the annealing process. We find excellent agreement between the simulated results obtained with the PVRD-FASP Solver and predicted values. It takes significant amount of time to generate with the PVRD-FASP Solver the Cu doping profiles given the initial conditions. The generation of the same with machine learning is almost instantaneous and can serve as an excellent simulation tool to guide future fabrication of optimal doping profiles in CdTe solar cells.
The esterification of cholesterol in vitro by rat plasma: I. Relative participation of trigylcerides and phospholipids II. Effect of snake venom

Abstract The synthesis of cholesterol esters by plasma and extracts of acetone powders of rat plasma was studied with the following substrates: (a) lecithin labeled in the β position with either [ I - 14 C]oleic acid, [ I - 14 C]linoleic acid or [ I - 14 C]palmitic acid; (b) trigylcerides labeled with either [ I - 14 C]palmitic acid or [ I - 14 ]oleic acid; (c) [4- 14 C]cholesterol. As much as 24 and 50% of the incubated 14 C was recovered as cholesterol esters when the labeled lecithins and free cholesterol, respectively, were incubated, and less than I % was so recovered when the labeled trigylcerides served as substrates. Snake venom completely prevented the formation of labeled cholesterol esters by acetone powder extracts in the experiments with fatty acid-labelled lecithin and the labeled free cholesterol. These findings support the hypothesis that the esterification of cholesterol is brought about by a fatty acid transferase and, in addition, suggest that the transesterification is limited to fatty acidss on the β position of phospholipids, regardless of the nature of the fatty acids, this being an intermediatry step even in the transesterification from trigylcerides.
A maximum likelihood method for estimating PSN curves

Abstract A maximum likelihood method for estimating PSN curves is proposed in order to minimize the time and the number of specimens required for laboratory testing. The SN curves are assumed in a three-parameter form. The proposed maximum likelihood method can conveniently be used to estimate the three parameters of the SN curves. The required number of test specimens for the maximum likelihood method is less than that for the conventional method. Based on the test results of notched steel specimens subject to axial loads, it is shown here that the PSN curves obtained by the maximum likelihood method agree well with those obtained by the conventional method.
Why physics alone cannot define the 'physical' : Materialism, metaphysics, and the formulation of physicalism

Materialist metaphysicians want to side with physics, but not to take sides within physics. If we took literally the claim of a materialist that his position is simply belief in the claim that all is matter, as currently conceived, we would be faced with an insoluble mystery. For how would such a materialist know how to retrench when his favorite scientific hypotheses fail? How did the 18th century materialist know that gravity, or forces in general, were material? How did they know in the 19th century that the electromagnetic field was material, and persisted in this conviction after the aether had been sent packing? The doctrine of physicalism casts a long shadow in contemporary philosophy, configuring all kinds of philosophical issues and projects. Unsurprisingly, its proponents argue that physicalism has all the obvious features necessary for a scientific hypothesis to be in what we will call ‘good standing,’ i.e. being worthy of serious scientific investigation. In fact, many claim much more, arguing that physicalism is a well-confirmed hypothesis and possibly amongst the best of our theories. But, as our second opening passage makes clear, a persistent worry has been that physicalism, or ‘materialism’ as van Fraassen terms it, is an edifice built on sand. For many philosophers question whether the ‘physical’ can be specified at all, or at least in a manner that will produce a physicalism that would be in good standing.
Related Diversification and Outsourcing in the Taxicab Industry

This paper studies how firms reorganize after diversifying into related businesses. Specifically, we propose that outsourcing is one way to reduce the coordination costs that arise in multi-divisional firms. We, also, examine the mechanisms underlying coordination costs, and show how alternative theories lead to contrasting predictions about the link between diversification and outsourcing. We test these propositions using novel micro-data on taxicab and limousine firms from the Economic Census. The results show that taxicab fleets outsource, by shifting ownership of taxicabs to drivers, when they diversify into the limousine business. Moreover, the magnitude of the shift toward driver ownership is larger for firms in less urban markets, where the tasks of taxicab and limousine drivers are similar, but compensation systems differ. These findings suggest that firms use outsourcing to mitigate coordination costs associated with related diversification, particularly when employees in different divisions have heterogeneous incentives or ability but perform similar tasks.
Labor market penalties from past earnings restatements: Enhancements to current earnings credibility?

Purpose – Experts contend that knowledge of the personal labor market penalties (loss of employment and future wealth) incurred by past chief executive officers (CEOs) forced to restate their firms' earnings may induce current CEOs to refrain from fraudulent disclosures. Because of the increased incidence of earnings restatements and the importance of augmenting investor trust, this paper aims to examine empirically nonprofessional investors' impressions of managerial earnings restatement penalties as fraud deterrents.Design/methodology/approach – The restatement penalties were explored in an experimental setting with nonprofessional investors as subjects. Using an experimental case as a basis, the study compared subjects' predictions of the probability that a CEO would fraudulently report a particular transaction under two general conditions: the absence of a specific fraud deterrent; and the presence of two potential deterrents, earnings restatement penalties and CEO financial statement certifications.F...
A Stereometric Analysis of Karyokinesis, Cytokinesis and Cell Arrangements during and following Fourth Cleavage Period in the Sea Urchin, Lytechinus variegatus sea urchin embryo/cell division patterns/stereo imaging/3‐D reconstruction

Fourth cleavage of the sea urchin embryo produces 16 blastomeres that are the starting point for analyses of cell lineages and bilateral symmetry. We used optical sectioning, scanning electron microscopy and analytical 3-D reconstructions to obtain stereo images of patterns of karyokinesis and cell arrangements between 4th and 6th cleavage. At 4th cleavage, 8 mesomeres result from a variant, oblique cleavage of the animal quartet with the mesomeres arranged in a staggered, offset pattern and not a planar ring. This oblique, non-radial cleavage pattern and polygonal packing of cells persists in the animal hemisphere throughout the cleavage period. Contrarily, at 4th cleavage, the 4 vegetal quartet nuclei migrate toward the vegetal pole during interphase; mitosis and cytokinesis are latitudinal and subequatorial. The 4 macromeres and 4 micromeres form before the animal quartet divides to produce a 12-cell stage. Subsequently, macromeres and their derivatives divide synchronously and radially through 8th cleavage according to the Sachs-Hertwig rule. At 5th cleavage, mesomeres and macromeres divide first; then the micromeres divide latitudinally and unequally to form the small and large micromeres. This temporal sequence produces 28-and 32-cell stages. At 6th cleavage, macromere and mesomere descendants divide synchronously before the 4 large micromeres divide parasynchronously to produce 56- and 60-cell stages.
Getting to Know Homo erectus

Europe and Asia have yielded a number of hominid fossils from the period 1 to 0.5 million years ago, but few hominid fossils from this era have been found in Africa. In his Perspective, [Schwartz][1] discusses a new hominid fossil find at Olorgesailie in Kenya, and whether it belongs to the species Homo erectus . [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/305/5680/53
Learning While Babbling: Prelinguistic Object-Directed Vocalizations Indicate a Readiness to Learn.

Two studies illustrate the functional significance of a new category of prelinguistic vocalizing-object-directed vocalizations (ODVs)-and show that these sounds are connected to learning about words and objects. Experiment 1 tested 12-month-old infants' perceptual learning of objects that elicited ODVs. Fourteen infants' vocalizations were recorded as they explored novel objects. Infants learned visual features of objects that elicited the most ODVs but not of objects that elicited the fewest vocalizations. Experiment 2 assessed the role of ODVs in learning word-object associations. Forty infants aged 11.5 months played with a novel object and received a label either contingently on an ODV or on a look alone. Only infants who received labels in response to an ODV learned the association. Taken together, the findings suggest that infants' ODVs signal a state of attention that facilitates learning.
Techniques for Evaluating Residents and Residency Programs

A comprehensive, functioning evaluation system is an important component of a residency program. It should focus on the residency program as well as on the residents and should provide feedback to the residents, their teachers, and the program director. Such a system allows residents and their faculty advisors to receive timely, ongoing, formative feedback concerning resident progress. Likewise, it can help the faculty recognize the strengths and weaknesses of the training program by providing data that can lead to the curriculum changes needed to improve resident experiences. Additionally, it can alert the residency program director to residents whose performance is significantly below that of their peers, allowing intensive faculty and advisor help for these individuals. The practical aspects of providing feedback and implementing an evaluation system apply no less to community-based educational experiences than they do to inpatient and outpatient training areas.
Nonlinear Wave Propagation in a Disordered Medium

In this paper we consider the problem of solitary wave propagation in a weakly disordered potential. Through a series of careful numerical experiments we have observed behavior which is in agreement with the theoretical predictions of Kivshar et al., Bronski, and Gamier. In particular we observe numerically the existence of two regimes of propagation. In the first regime the mass of the solitary wave decays exponentially, while the velocity of the solitary wave approaches a constant. This exponential decay is what one would expect from known results in the theory of localization for the linear Schrodinger equation. In the second regime, where nonlinear effects dominate, we observe the anomalous behavior which was originally predicted by Kivshar et al. In this regime the mass of the solitary wave approaches a constant, while the velocity of the solitary wave displays an anomalously slow decay. For sufficiently small velocities (when the theory is no longer valid) we observe phenomena of total reflection and trapping.
Genetic tests: clinical validity and clinical utility

When evaluating the appropriate use of new genetic tests, clinicians and health care policymakers must consider the accuracy with which a test identifies a patient's clinical status (clinical validity) and the risks and benefits resulting from test use (clinical utility). Genetic tests in current use vary in accuracy and potential to improve health outcomes, and these test properties may be influenced by testing technology and the clinical setting in which the test is used. This unit defines clinical validity and clinical utility, provides examples, and considers the implications of these test properties for clinical practice.
INDICES OF BIODIVERSITY PATTERN BASED ON PRESENCE-ABSENCE MATRICES: A GIS IMPLEMENTATION

In this work we present mathematical notation and formulae relating a number of indices of the biodiversity pattern of an aggregate of species, and an Open Source implementation of them as a plug-in for the increasingly popular Open Source geographical information system Quantum GIS. We provide detailed formulae relating three indices of beta diversity, two of pattern of nestedness, one of checkerboard pattern, and two of ratios of variances. The above is done by deriving six vectors from the full presence-absence matrix. Our GIS implementation is done via Web Services, tapping the LifeMapper platform for calculating potential species distributions.
A comparative study of spermiogenesis in wild-type and T:t-bearing mice.

The results of a comparative ultrastructural study of spermiogenesis in T / t x , +/ t x , +/ T , C57BL/6J, BALB/c and randomly breeding Swiss Albino mice are reported. The observations show that aberrant spermiogenesis occurs in males of all strains and genotypes and that the same specific types of abnormal spermatids are found in all of the males examined. No unique morphological defect which could be correlated with the increased transmission frequency of t x -bearing gametes can be found in males heterozygous for the t x allele.
Methylmagnesium Iodide–Copper(I) Chloride

(MeMgI) [917-64-6] CH3IMg (MW 166.25) InChI = 1S/CH3.HI.Mg/h1H3;1H;/q;;+1/p-1 InChIKey = AUPXBVDHVRZMIB-UHFFFAOYSA-M (CuCl) [7758-89-6] ClCu (MW 99.00) InChI = 1S/ClH.Cu/h1H;/q;+1/p-1 InChIKey = OXBLHERUFWYNTN-UHFFFAOYSA-M (methyl group transfer in 1,4- and 1,6-conjugate additions to unsaturated carbonyl compounds; coupling with acid chlorides gives methyl ketones) Physical Data: see entries for Methylmagnesium Bromide and Copper(I) Chloride. Preparative Methods: generated in situ by using varying, often catalytic, amounts of purified and dried CuCl. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: air- and moisture-sensitive. Use in a fume hood.
Career Problem Assessment: A Conceptual Schema for Counselor Training

Counseling students learn about various theories, models, and career assessment measures during their training. However, the transition to practicum and internship often challenges students to decide on when to apply career theories and measures to specific problems. An assessment schema is proposed to assist counselor trainees with a systematic approach to conceptualizing a client's career problem. With this assessment schema, counselor educators can help trainees organize data into meaningful categories, reduce conceptual confusion, and engage students in the study of careers.
The Value of CO2: Framework and Results

The authors present an engineering economic framework for estimation of the affordable price and EOR project can pay for CO/sub 2/. Geologic and financial factors are considered. Two hypothetical reservoirs illustrate the framework. The authors describe the sensitivity pf permissible cost to flooding efficiency, oil price, and internal rate of return (ROR) for each reservoir.
Trend in outcome of critically ill patients with co-morbidity: a 15-year study

Critically ill patients with underlying co-morbidity have a high hospital mortality rate. This study describes the trend in the severity-adjusted mortality of such patients over a 15-year period.
Development of atrio-ventricular block during adenosine infusion and incidence of subsequent pacemaker implantation: A retrospective study

Abstract Background Atrio-ventricular (AV) block during adenosine infusion complicates a small percentage of pharmacologic stress tests. The prognostic value of adenosine infusion-related AV block for predicting later conduction disturbances requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is not known. Methods Retrospective analysis of the nuclear laboratory electronic data-base identified 125 patients, mean age 66.6 years (y) (SD 12.6), 65% females, who developed transient AV block during adenosine infusion. A control group of 337 consecutive patients mean age 64.4 y (SD 12.5), 63% females, without AV block on adenosine infusion was identified. Both sets of data were entered in the electrophysiology laboratory electronic data-base to identify those patients requiring permanent pacemakers (PPM). Results In the AV block group, 57 patients(46%) had baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) conduction disturbances (included sinus bradycardia, AV block, right or left bundle branch block and non-specific intraventricular conduction delay) versus 80 patients(24%) in the control group (p Conclusions The occurrence of AV block during adenosine infusion did not increase the incidence of conduction disturbances requiring PPM implantation during the time interval studied. Development of AV block during adenosine infusion occurred more frequently in patients with baseline ECG conduction abnormalities. Patients requiring PPM implantation were > 70 y regardless of the AV block status.
A visible assembler for a course in introductory system software

Ideas from program visualization have been borrowed to create an assembler that reveals its operations as it executes. This assembler is used as an object of study in an introductory course in system software.
A Look at Firm—Regulator Exchanges: Friendly Enough or Too Friendly?

This article examines the relational characteristics of firm—regulator interactions. Many political economists have focused on the relevance, costs, processes, and beneficiaries of regulation. Alte...
Factors influencing survival in patients with hepatic metastases from adenocarcinoma of the colon or rectum

The median survival of all patients with hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer referred to the Sidney Farber Cancer Institute during a five-year period was 12.5 months. Two major factors influenced survival. The first was extent of disease at presentation. The second was the histologic grade of the cancer. The median survival of patients presenting with the least disease, characterized by less than four liver nodules visible on liver scan (n=38), normal liver size on physical examination (n=60), normal liver function test results (n=30), and normal performance status (n=91), was between 18 and 24 months, regardless of treatment. The median survival of those few patients (n=13) who had objective responses to a variety of treatments, most of whom also had minimal disease at presentation, was also 24 months. Patients whose tumors were poorly differentiated or who had abnormal performance status or weight loss of greater than 10 per cent at presentation survived only six months (median). Those with four or more liver nodules, hepatomegaly (greater than 16-cm vertical span on physical examination), or abnormal liver function test results, survived ten, eight, and 12 months (median), respectively. It is concluded that a significant group of patients survived longer than would have been predicted by earlier literature surveys after the diagnosis of colorectal cancer metastatic to the liver. It is suggested that future therapeutic trials, using survival as a measure of response of patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer, must be prospectively controlled before selection factors can be differentiated from significant therapy effect.
Dynamic small strain measurements of Kevlar® 129 single fibers with a miniaturized tension Kolsky bar

We adopted a non-contact laser technique to measure axial small strain (<∼5%) of Kevlar® 129 fibers in a miniaturized tension Kolsky bar. Accurate small strain measurement is necessary to determine the elastic response of the fibers. In this optical arrangement, a laser beam passes through a line generator lens, which is known as a Powell glass, yielding a thin sheet of light with uniform intensity. This laser sheet passes through a gap formed by the fixture holding the fiber specimen. As the specimen is stretched, an increasing amount of light passes through the gap, which is measured by a high-speed, high resolution photo-detector mounted on the other side of the gap. Dynamic tensile experiments performed at a constant strain rate of ∼1500/s on Kevlar® 129 fibers demonstrate the capability of this non-contact laser technique in the determination of dynamic tensile strain histories with low amplitudes.
Empiric guideline-recommended weight-based vancomycin dosing and mortality in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia: a retrospective cohort study

No studies have evaluated the effect of guideline-recommended weight-based dosing on in-hospital mortality of patients with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. This was a multicenter, retrospective, cohort study of patients with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia receiving at least 48 hours of empiric vancomycin therapy between 01/07/2002 and 30/06/2008. We compared in-hospital mortality for patients treated empirically with weight-based, guideline-recommended vancomycin doses (at least 15 mg/kg/dose) to those treated with less than 15 mg/kg/dose. We used a general linear mixed multivariable model analysis with variables identified a priori through a conceptual framework based on the literature. A total of 337 patients who were admitted to the three hospitals were included in the cohort. One-third of patients received vancomycin empirically at the guideline-recommended dose. Guideline-recommended dosing was not associated with in-hospital mortality in the univariable (16% vs. 13%, OR 1.26 [95%CI 0.67-2.39]) or multivariable (OR 0.71, 95%CI 0.33-1.55) analysis. Independent predictors of in-hospital mortality were ICU admission, Pitt bacteremia score of 4 or greater, age 53 years or greater, and nephrotoxicity. Empiric use of weight-based, guideline-recommended empiric vancomycin dosing was not associated with reduced mortality in this multicenter study.
Genetic counseling: helping the family.

Those situations in which a nurse might be called on for guidance and support of families with questions about heredity or with already identified genetic problems are discussed. The types of information, the counseling techniques, and the attitudes with which the nurse should be equipped are outlined; and the process of genetic counseling, from case finding to intervention after referral to genetic services, is described.
Factors Contributing to the Effectiveness of Social and Nonsocial Reinforcers in the Discrimination Learning of Children from Two Socioeconomic Groups.

Abstract Middle- and lower-class children who had been treated by E in a warm or aloof manner were given a discrimination learning task under one of six conditions forming a 3 × 2 design: three reinforcement types (Verbalintoned, Verbal-nonintoned, or Symbolic) and reinforcement for correct or incorrect responses. In accordance with Zigler's valence theory of social reinforcement, lower-class girls and middle-class children of both sexes tended to perform better when they had previously received warm treatment. No significant differences among the three types of reinforcers occurred in either SE group, thus failing to support the implications of several theories about the relative effectiveness of social and nonsocial reinforcers and tonality factors related to SES.
Carbon dioxide adsorption on oxide nanoparticle surfaces

Abstract In this paper, focused on environmental nanotechnology, we review some recent results for carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption on hydroxylated Fe2O3, γ-Al2O3, and TiO2 nanoparticle surfaces at 296 K as followed by transmission FTIR spectroscopy. In the absence of water vapor (
Plant volatiles are behavioral cues for adult females of the gall wasp Antistrophus rufus

The purpose of this study was to identify plant volatiles that provide host location cues for adult females of the gall wasp Antistrophus rufus Gillette (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae). Larvae of this species inhabit flowering stems of the prairie perennial Silphium laciniatum L. (Asteraceae). Adult females responded to volatile compounds emitted by stems of S. laciniatum in field olfactometer bioassays. Plant volatiles were monoterpenes, including, in descending order of abundance, racemic α- and β-pinene (~50% “+” enantiomer for both), (+)-limonene, (−)-camphene, and β-myrcene. In laboratory bioassays, females responded to aeration extracts of plant stems, the full blend of synthetic monoterpenes, and the four-component blend of α-pinene, β-pinene, (+)-limonene, and (−)-camphene. This monoterpene blend apparently serves as an olfactory cue for host plant location for female A. rufus and is the first such cue to be reported for a cynipid gall wasp. Species-specific ratios of plant monoterpenes may provide cues for gall wasp females to distinguish between plant species and choose appropriate hosts for oviposition. The olfactometer and bioassay techniques developed for this research may be useful for field bioassays of other types of minute arthropods.
Good/fast/cheap: contexts, relationships and professional responsibility during software development

Engineering requires tradeoffs [23]. When engineering computer applications, software engineers should consider the costs and benefits to humans as an integral part of the software development process. In this paper we focus on reliability, a central aspect of software quality, and the influence of relationships and various software development contexts on the software developer.
Imaging Sources with Fast and Slow Emission Components

We investigate two-proton correlation functions for reactions in which fast dynamical and slow evaporative proton emission are both present. In such cases, the width of the correlation peak provides the most reliable information about the source size of the fast dynamical component. The maximum of the correlation function is sensitive to the relative yields from the slow and fast emission components. Numerically inverting the correlation function allows one to accurately disentangle fast dynamical from slow evaporative emission and extract details of the shape of the two-proton source.
Integrated systems based on behaviors

Behavior based systems require an orthogonal view of integration issues. In this paper we highlight those issues, discuss what is easy, what is hard, and where the research frontiers lie.
Chlorine substitution reactions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on fly ash from coal-fired power plants

Abstract Naphthalene, anthracene, and biphenyl were individually adsorbed in fly ash from a coal-fired power plant and treated with HCl(g) in nitrogen at 150°C. Products from the reaction included mono- and poly-chlorinated cogeners of the parent PAH at total yields of ca. 9–15% for all products. Brominated aromatic products, observed in identical studies using municipal incinerator fly ash, were not detected in significant amounts. The results suggest that the absence of chlorinated compounds in coal combustion effluent can not be attributed to chemical properties of fly ash surfaces involved in heterogeneous gas-solid phase reactions. Alternate explanations should be sought in the low levels of HCl in the effluent stream or the chemistry of the combustion event.
Velocity imaging in microfluidic devices using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy

In this paper we present and demonstrate a technique for mapping fluid flow rates in microfluidic systems with sub-micron resolution using confocal microscopy in conjunction with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. Velocity profiles and velocity images of the fluid within poly(dimethylsiloxane)-glass microchannels are presented and analyzed. Flow velocities ranging from a few μm/s to a few cm/s can be recorded using nanometer-scale fluorescent polymer spheres as fluid motion tracers. The method is applied to mapping the hydrodynamic flow velocity in complex geometries. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of FCS for producing 2-dimensional velocity maps.
CO oxidation on electrified platinum surfaces in acetonitrile/water solutions studied by sum frequency generation and cyclic voltammetry

Sum frequency generation (SFG) vibrational spectroscopy in combination with cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used to investigate the oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) in acetonitrile (CH3CN)/water (H2O) solutions at the platinum (Pt) electrode surface. CO oxidation on Pt was studied as a function of water concentration and electrode potential. In electrolyte solutions containing small concentrations of water, a preoxidation wave was observed at +900 mV vs SCE whereby a small amount of the adsorbed CO was oxidized. This preoxidation wave was followed by the main oxidation of CO on Pt at approximately +1700 mV vs SCE. Spectroscopy and voltammetry data in these essentially nonaqueous electrolytes indicate an oxidation intermediate of CO to CO2 that was nearly parallel to the Pt electrode surface.
Galactic arm structure and gamma ray astronomy

Unexpectedly high energy gamma radiation over a broad region of the galactic plane in the general direction of the galactic center was observed. A model is proposed wherein the galactic cosmic rays are preferentially located in the high matter density regions of galactic arm segments, as a result of the weight of the matter in these arms tieing the magnetic fields and hence the cosmic rays to these regions. The presently observed galactic gamma ray longitudinal distribution can be explained with the current estimate of the average galactic matter density: if the average arm to interarm matter ratio is five to one for the major arm segments toward the galactic center from the sun; and if the cosmic ray density normalized to its local value is assumed to be directly proportional to the matter density.
Health effects of oxidants

Abstract Oxidants of significance to human health include ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and peroxyacetylnitrate. All of these compounds are involved in complex photochemical reactions which makes quantification and prediction of their individual health effects difficult. Ozone causes trauma to lung tissues and interferes with enzyme systems in the lungs and other tissues causing a broad range of symptoms. Measurable health impacts can occur at concentrations as low as 390 μg/m 3 . Acute effects of ozone exposure are reversible at normal urban concentrations (80–120 μg/m 3 ). A special problem of concern, however, is increased susceptibility to infectious diseases contracted through the lungs. Nitrogen dioxide also causes trauma to lung tissues and interferes with enzyme systems. Measurable impacts can occur at concentrations as low as 100 μg/m 3 , but recovery is rapid and it is not known whether repeated exposures at this level have cumulative effects or predispose the lungs to permanent damage. Chronic exposure of laboratory animals to higher nitrogen dioxide levels can cause emphysema-like conditions and reduction in resistance to respiratory infection. Epidemiological studies of children in houses with gas stoves confirm the finding of reduced resistance to respiratory infection. The U.S. EPA estimates that health effects may occur in young children exposed to concentrations in excess of 280 to 560 μg/m 3 one-hour average. These concentrations occur routinely in houses having gas stoves. Peroxyacetylnitrate is a powerful eye irritant in photochemical smog. Other health effects are similar to those of ozone, but less important because of the relatively low concentrations of this pollutant compared to other oxidants.
Elevated standard metabolic rate in a freshwater shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus) exposed to trace element-rich coal combustion waste

I conducted a transplant experiment to determine whether standard metabolic rate (SMR) of a freshwater shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus) would be affected by exposure to trace element-enriched coal combustion waste (`coal ash'). Shrimp were transplanted into replicate cages in a coal ash-polluted site and a reference site for 8 months. The coal ash-polluted site was characterized by elevated sediment concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Se compared to sediments in the reference site. After 8 months in the study sites, shrimp in the polluted site appeared to have accumulated As, Cd, and Se from the habitat, but there were no differences in survival between the study sites. However, mean SMR of shrimp (measured as O2 consumption at rest) held in the polluted site was 51% higher than mean SMR of shrimp held in the reference site. The elevation in SMR indicates that the energetic costs of maintenance are greater for shrimp chronically exposed to the coal-ash polluted environment than shrimp in the reference site. It is likely, therefore, that other physiological or behavioral processes may be modified in the pollution-exposed individuals to compensate for the increased energy demands for maintenance. Recent studies have reported similar elevations in SMR in an amphibian and a reptile chronically exposed to coal ash. Analogous physiological responses in such taxonomically diverse animals (a crustacean, an amphibian, and a reptile) indicate that elevated SMR may be a general response by many types of organisms exposed to the mixture of trace elements characteristic of coal ash. The relationships among pollution-induced elevations in maintenance expenditures, long-term health of individuals, and population-level parameters require further attention.
What's wrong with these employees?

N ewspaper headlines tell of a growing disenchantment with work, even within organizations many had thought of as well run. Perhaps of even greater concern is the fact that this is occurring not only among employees but also among middle managers, the traditional backbone of American business. Engaging the work force will be a key component of future competitiveness. One example of this disenchantment was noted in a recent Wall Street Journal article (Faludi 1990). Nordstrom, a high-service, highperformance company, is struggling with employee problems. Among the "Nervous Nordies," as employees like to call themselves, there is growing dissatisfaction. The article notes that Nordies are "under increased pressure to work many hours without pay in an environment of constant pressure and harassment that incites employees to prey on each other." This is according to 500 complaints filed with the workers' union and interviews with several dozen employees in stores from Seattle to Los Angeles. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries concluded that the agency systematically violated state law. They ordered Nordstrom to pay back wages estimated at $30 to $40 million. The article goes on to note that in the high pressure for sales there is a "Darwinian struggle" where thousands have thrived but many other thousands are unhappy. Among other things, complaints include employees having to punch out on the time clock when doing non-sales work (such as stocking and deliveries) because it would dilute their critical sales per hour (SPH) performance. A low SPH could be a reason for dismissal. Only 1,500 of the 30,000 Nordstrom employees belong to a union, and the union is trying to win more members; however, it is clear that Nordstrom is having serious problems with many dissatisfied employees. These problems are o c curring despite the fact that Nordstrom salespeople are paid $20,000 to $24,000 when the average retail salesperson makes $12,000. While the pressure at Nordstrom may be somewhat unique, their problems with work disenchantment are not unique. A recent issue of Fortune docuThe "employee problem" can only be cured through getting in touch with the people instead of the numbers.
Pathogenesis of Epstein–Barr virus and its associated malignancies

Abstract Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a human herpesvirus that establishes a latent infection in lymphoid cells and replicates in epithelial cells. EBV is linked to the development of several human cancers and causes lymphoma in immunocompromised patients. EBV infection in vivo is a complex mixture of latent, reactivated, transforming, or replicative types of infection. It is marked by sporadic viral excretion in the oropharynx and persistent latent infection in the bone marrow and peripheral blood lymphocytes. Factors that contribute to the development of cancer possibly affect the type of viral infection in the differing cell types. The EBV latent membrane protein 1 is a critical factor in EBV pathogenesis as it induces cellular growth and affects cellular growth control mechanisms.
Single-incision laparoscopic colectomy: training the next generation

Single-incision laparoscopic colectomy (SILC) is touted to be an improved approach for minimally invasive surgery although no data currently exists regarding the acquisition of skills for the safe performance of this technique. The authors report their early experience with proctoring of surgical residents in SILC by experienced colorectal surgeons. Data regarding patient demographics, operative data, and short-term outcomes were prospectively collected at two surgical training hospitals. Residents and staff independently rated individual components of this technique to compare them with learning standard multiport colectomy (MP). A total of 31 SILC cases (15 men; mean age 53 years) were managed. The average BMI was 26.5 kg/m2 (range 16–39 kg/m2). The surgical indications included cancer (n = 13), polyps (n = 8), diverticular disease (n = 4), Crohn’s disease (n = 2), familial adenomatous polyposis (n = 2), volvulus (n = 1), and rectal prolapse (n = 1). The average operative time was 164 ± 86 min, and the mean blood loss was 80 ± 83 mL. The mean incision length was 4.1 ± 1.1 cm. One case required additional trocar placement (stoma creation), and three cases required conversion to open procedure because of failure to progress, difficult colorectal anastomosis, or poor visualization. The median hospital stay was 5.7 ± 1.3 days. The 30-day morbidity included minor wound infections (9.7 %), ileus (6.5 %), blood transfusion (3.2 %), and intraabdominal abscess (3.2 %). No deaths occurred. Residents rated vascular pedicle isolation, mobilization, critical structure exposure, instrument conflict/handling, and ergonomics as significantly more difficult with SILC. Senior-level residents can safely perform SILC under appropriate experienced supervision. The required advanced skills reflect complex laparoscopic training occurring during residency. Opportunities exist for better preparation and training of surgical residents to perform this complex surgery independently and safely at completion of residency.
The role of stacking fault energy on galling and wear behavior

Abstract Cobalt-base alloys have been traditionally known for their superior resistance to galling. Pin-on-block galling tests were used to study the influence of nickel substitution for cobalt on the galling behavior of a commercial cobalt-base alloy. Nickel additions resulted in lower self-mated threshold galling stresses. The tendency to galling is believed to be related to stacking fault energy. Alloys with low stacking fault energy have superior galling resistance to those with high stacking fault energy. The behavior is confirmed by experimental alloys with varying nickel to cobalt ratios. A metallurgical model is proposed.
A potentiometric method for the determination of the iodine-binding capacity of glycogen

Abstract The experimental conditions in the potentiometric method for the determination of the iodine-binding capacity ( I b ) of starch and amylose [ R. L. Bates, D. French, and R. E. Rundle (1943) J. Amer. Chem. Soc. 65 , 142–148] were not suitable for glycogen because of the much lower affinity for iodine of the latter. This difficulty was overcome by titration of small volume with both the iodine and glycogen at high concentration. Using the concentration cell circuit Pt electrode-blank-bridge-glycogen-Pt electrode, small increments of standard iodine solution were added to the blank solution and each was titrated to null by adding iodine to the glucogen solution [ G. A. Gilbert and J. V. R. Marriott (1948) Trans. Faraday Soc. 44 , 84–93]. Glycogen was determined by an anthrone-sulfuric acid method [ F. W. Fales (1951) J. Biol. Chem. 193 , 113–124]. Glycogens with I b 's ranging from 1.8 to 5.3% were observed.
Application of Sensitivity and Uncertainty Methodology to Fast Reactor Integral Experiment Analysis

This paper presents the first results of a comprehensive application of the sensitivity theory developed for the FORSS code system to the analysis of fast reactor integral experiments. A variety of...
The dexamethasone drug delivery system: Indications and evidence

Introduction The Ozurdex® (Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, USA) dexamethasone drug delivery system (DDS) was recently developed as a biodegradable intravitreal implant to provide sustained delivery of 700 μg of preservativefree dexamethasone to the retina and vitreous, and is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion, as well as for noninfectious posterior uveitis. This review summarizes the rationale behind the development of the dexamethasone DDS, evidence for its use in various clinical scenarios, and compares its efficacy to other available treatment options.
New medical treatments for endometriosis

Abstract The medical treatment of endometriosis has long centered upon producing a hypoestrogenic environment by producing pituitary suppression or a progestin-dominant environment. However, as more is uncovered regarding the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of this disease, more targeted therapies can be developed. Current research has focused upon medications designed to attack specific aspects of the development and maintenance of endometriosis. These include progesterone receptor modulators, gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists, aromatase inhibitors, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors, angiogenesis inhibitors, matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, pentoxifylline (and other general immune modulators), and estrogen receptor beta agonists. It is hoped that this new wave of medications will improve the response to medical therapy for this disorder.
Climate Change Expands the Spatial Extent and Duration of Preferred Thermal Habitat for Lake Superior Fishes

Climate change is expected to alter species distributions and habitat suitability across the globe. Understanding these shifting distributions is critical for adaptive resource management. The role of temperature in fish habitat and energetics is well established and can be used to evaluate climate change effects on habitat distributions and food web interactions. Lake Superior water temperatures are rising rapidly in response to climate change and this is likely influencing species distributions and interactions. We use a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model that captures temperature changes in Lake Superior over the last 3 decades to investigate shifts in habitat size and duration of preferred temperatures for four different fishes. We evaluated habitat changes in two native lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) ecotypes, siscowet and lean lake trout, Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), and walleye (Sander vitreus). Between 1979 and 2006, days with available preferred thermal habitat increased at a mean rate of 6, 7, and 5 days per decade for lean lake trout, Chinook salmon, and walleye, respectively. Siscowet lake trout lost 3 days per decade. Consequently, preferred habitat spatial extents increased at a rate of 579, 495 and 419 km2 per year for the lean lake trout, Chinook salmon, and walleye while siscowet lost 161 km2 per year during the modeled period. Habitat increases could lead to increased growth and production for three of the four fishes. Consequently, greater habitat overlap may intensify interguild competition and food web interactions. Loss of cold-water habitat for siscowet, having the coldest thermal preference, could forecast potential changes from continued warming. Additionally, continued warming may render more suitable conditions for some invasive species.