cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The XSYS Data Acquisition System at Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory

We have described a general purpose data acquisition and analysis system for the VAX 11/780. The system runs under VMS and uses commercially available hardware for the bulk of the interface. The code is written almost exclusively in Fortran and uses many software components and ideas from other laboratories. All users share common versions of applications tasks, reducing problems associated with program proliferation and documentation.All event sorting is performed by the event analysis language EVAL. Singles data rates of about 70 KHz use about a third of the available CPU time. This has little or no impact on the response time for the other off-line users. Taking over work from an other facility is a convenient and fast way of implementing a data acquisition system when the computer and interface are identical. This was the case for us with the MBD software and the graphics software. If the hardware configuration is different, however, implementation may be difficult unless one of the programmers is very familiar with the system being installed. The key parts of our system, EVAL and the Z-like data structures, did require modification. They were developed during a three month visit by one of the authors (RVP). Once these foundations were laid, the work of writing the full system could be spread around a number of people. We estimate about 1.5 man years of effort in our system to date.
Assessment of airway function during assisted ventilation

The purpose of this study was to evaluate three bedside methods for measuring respiratory system resistance to airflow (Rrs). To this end, we studied 19 intubated patients, 6 of whom had diseases characterized predominantly by acute airway obstruction (Group I) and 13 in whom respiratory failure was attributable to extensive pneumonia or edema (Group II). For two of the methods, pressure and flow were measured during assisted inhalation. In one, designated RrsIP, driving pressure was taken as the difference between peak airway pressure and airway pressure recorded with the lung held at inflation after a tidal breath. Flow was measured during assisted inhalation. Method 2, designated RrsIC, differed from RrsIP in that driving pressure was calculated from the airway pressure measured at mid-tidal inhalation, with a correction for dynamic compliance. In contrast, for Method 3, driving pressure was derived from the static pressure-volume curve of the respiratory system and flow was measured during passive exhalation (RrsEX). RrsEX was significantly higher in Group I than in Group II patients, the values (mean±SD) being 21.3±11.5 and 10.3±7.3 cm H2O/(l/s) respectively (P<0.01). The corresponding values of driving pressures were 10.7±5.7 cm H2O in Group I and 5.3±3.9 cm H2O in Group II. Both inspiratory methods yielded lower values for Rrs, especially in Group I patients with obstructive disease. Neither RrsIP nor RrsIC were significantly different in the two patient groups. We conclude that Rrs measurement by the RrsEX method may provide information of clinical value. We reason that inspiratory methods for measurement of Rrs fail to identify expiratory limitation of flow through airways of narrowed caliber, because the inspiratory pressure in intubated mechanically ventilated patients tends to open rather than compress the flow-limiting regions.
The Vocabularies of Academia

It has been demonstrated that humanists are far more likely to use filled pauses (“uh,” “ah,” or “um”) during their lectures than are social or natural scientists This finding has been interpreted in terms of the hypothesis that filled pauses indicate time out while the speaker searches for the next word or phrase Based on the assumption that the more options at a choice point, the more likely a speaker will say “uh,” it is hypothesized that the humanities are characterized by richer vocabularies (i e, more synonyms) than are the sciences An analysis of the number of different words used in lectures and in professional publications indicates that this is indeed the case Scientists consistently use fewer different words than do humanists Further, the number of different words correlates positively with the frequency of saying “uh” during lectures These findings are not restricted to academics, for in newspaper accounts, journalists use fewer different words in stories about science than in stories about th...
On the surface structure of infinitive-complement sentences

Linguists' inability to reach consensus about the surface structure of infinitive-complement sentences with verbs likebelieve is a consequence of unresolved foundational disputes about the nature of generative grammar. Naive native speakers' linguistic intuitions about sentences of this type, as assessed by elicitation of judgments about surface structure, also fail to provide a solution to this problem. Insofar as we have no way of deciding on the surface structure ofbelieve-type infinitive-complement sentences, click-displacement results with these materials cannot be used to support either a surface-structure account or a deep-structure account of the parsing of sentences in the process of comprehension.
Tunicamycin does not block ovalbumin secretion in the oviduct.

Abstract In order to examine the role of carbohydrate in the secretion of ovalbumin, oviduct minces were incubated in the presence of tunicamycin, an inhibitor of dolichol-mediated glycosylation. Ovalbumin secretion was monitored immunologically and found to be identical, within experimental error, in the absence and presence of tunicamycin. These results, coupled with the recent finding of Palmiter et al . [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (1978) 75 , 94–98] indicate that neither a transient hydrophobic pre-piece nor carbohydrate is required for ovalbumin secretion.
Preliminary study of cosmic rays, geomagnetic field changes and possible climate changes

Abstract The possibility of a connection between cosmic radiation and climate has intrigued scientists for the past several decades. The studies of Friis-Christensen and Svensmark reported a variation of 3–4% in the global cloud cover between 1980 and 1995 that appeared to be directly correlated with the change in galactic cosmic radiation flux over the solar cycle. However, not only the solar cycle modulation of cosmic radiation must be considered, but also the changes in the cosmic radiation impinging at the top of the atmosphere as a result of the long-term evolution of the geomagnetic field. We present preliminary results of an on-going study of geomagnetic cutoff rigidities over a 400-year interval. These results show: (1) the change in cutoff rigidity is sufficiently large over this 400-year period that the change in cosmic radiation flux impacting the earth is approximately equal to the relative change in flux over a solar cycle, and (2) the changes in cutoff rigidity are non-uniform over the globe with both significant increases and decreases at mid-latitude locations.
Equipping the Armed Forces

Since World War II we have felt compelled for the first time in our history to maintain large standing forces. It is technology though, not numbers, that provides our edge in the continuing military competition with the Soviet Union. Acquiring advanced weapons is a complex process greatly complicated by our governmental system, which intentionally fragments political power. Mechanisms for improving the efficiency of the weapons acquisition process, however, threaten the very values that we seek to protect with our military power.
Intraspecific interactions influence size specific depth distribution in Cottus bairdi

We tested depth selection by different sizes of mottled sculpin, Cottus bairdi, in a southern Appalachian stream. Field observations indicated that, during one hour periods, both small (<50 mm SL) and large (≥55 mm SL) individuals move within an area less than 0.50 m2. Individuals of both sizes, placed in field enclosures, preferred deep microhabitat. When large fish were placed in cages with small fish, small fish initially spent more time in slope and shallow microhabitats. Average interfish distances were not correlated with their absolute size differences, suggesting C. bairdi interactions may involve both predation and competition. In streams, size-related differences in microhabitat depth may result more from intraspecific interactions than from size-specific depth preferences.
Phospholipid Fatty Acid Composition and Arachidonic Acid Metabolism in Selected Tissues of Adult Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

The fatty acid composition of selected tissues from adults of Tenebrio molitor (L.) have been analyzed. The major components were C16 and C18 saturated and unsaturated components ubiquitous to most animal species. In addition to these components, several odd-chain fatty acids (15:0, 17:0, 17:1, and 19:0), one hydroxy fatty acid 2-OH-20:0, and two prostaglandin precursor fatty acids, 20:3n-6 and 20:4n-6 were found. Injected radioactive 20:4n-6 was incorporated into excretory, alimentary, and reproductive tissues. Within each tissue, most radioactivity was associated with phospholipids, with lesser incorporation into mono-, di-, and triacylglycerides dand cholesteryl esters. In addition, substantial proportions of injected radioactive 20:4n-6 were converted into three prostaglandins, PGD 2 , PGE 2 , and PGF 2α , as well as into other, more polar oxygenated derivatives
A model of greenhouse whitefly Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) population development and management on Camarosa variety strawberry plants.

Abstract A deterministic parameterized model of development of a greenhouse whitefly ( Trialeurodes vaporariorum ) population on field grown strawberry plants ( Fragaria × ananassa ) is presented (var. Camarosa). The model calculates the timing of the physiological development of individual whiteflies and population size as a function of temperature, mortality, oviposition, and plant condition using parameters from the literature and field observations from California. Simulated dynamics of a T. vaporariorum population accurately reflected the observed population development in an untreated strawberry field, and its response to applications of pyriproxyfen and imidacloprid under production conditions in central coastal California. It was validated with an independent field observation where both imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen were applied at different periods of strawberry plant development. These results present an opportunity to predict effects of management strategies targeting T. vaporariorum populations on variety Camarosa strawberry plants.
Enhancement Factor and True Absorption of the V.H.F. Cosmic Radio Noise associated with Solar Flares

SOME abnormal absorptions of cosmic radio noise at the V.H.F. are closely associated with solar flares and can be measured by means of riometers. If there is no enhancement of radio noise emission, the absorption of cosmic radio noise can be simply measured by comparison with a quiet day curve, but enhancement of radio noise at the V.H.F. frequently accompanies solar flares. The absorption measured by comparison with a quiet day curve would be quite different from the true absorption, and the enhancement of radio noise should be fully taken into account for the measurement of absorption.
Connective Tissue Alterations in the Skin of Ultraviolet Irradiated Hairless Mice

Abstract Connective tissue alterations were induced in hairless mouse skin by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Hairless mice were irradiated three times a week for 10 weeks with sunlamps (UVA and UVB) and the skin was examined using immunochemical and biochemical techniques. Indirect immunofluorescence was performed with antibodies directed against elastin, microfibrillar proteins, and fibronectin. Increased fluorescence was observed in the actinically damaged skin for elastin, microfibrillar proteins, and fibronectin. The elastic fiber components, elastin and microfibrillar proteins, were then isolated and quantified. Control skin contained approximately 0.1% by dry weight of elastic fiber components, whereas actinically damaged skin contained 0.2% by dry weight. These data are consistent with previous observations of elastic fiber hyperplasia in UV irradiated mice. In addition, irradiated mouse skin contained 1.12 mg of extracted fibronectin per gram wet weight as compared with 0.59 mg in control skin. Irradiated mouse skin contained increased quantities of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate (uronic acid content). These studies further support the validity of the UV irradiated hairless mouse as a model of human dermal photoaging.
Movement of Ca2+ across the sarcolemma: effects of abrupt exposure to zero external Na concentration.

Uncertainty exists regarding the mechanisms of Ca efflux from isolated myocardial cells. Therefore, transmembrane fluxes of Ca, exchangeable Ca content, and contractile behavior were studied in monolayers of cultured chick embryoventricle during abrupt exposure to media containing zero [Na] 0 (choline chloride substitution). Exposure to zero [Na] 0 induced a transient contracture of cultured heart cells. Rapid Ca influx increased significantly over the first 60 s immersion in zero [Na] 0 ; however, total exchangeable Ca content, measured by labelling with 45 Ca, did not change, suggesting that rapid Ca efflux was also increasing under these conditions. When 45 Ca in the extracellular space was removed by washing for 16 s in ice cold buffer before 45 Ca efflux was measured, an increase in Ca efflux with exposure to zero [Na] 0 was apparent. Treatment of cells with 10 −3 m cyanide and 20 m m 2-deoxyglucose resulted in a decrease in the Ca efflux in zero [Na] 0 -zero [Ca] 0 medium, and in the appearance of significant components of [Na] 0 and [Ca] 0 -dependent Ca efflux. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that Ca efflux in these cells normally occurs predominantly by a non-[Na] 0 -dependent mechanism, probably an ATP-dependent Ca pump. After metabolic blockade of ATP production with a resulting increase in Ca loading of the cytoplasm, increased efflux of Ca via Na−Ca and Ca−Ca exchange occurs.
Performance of Network-Coding in Multi-Rate Wireless Environments for Multicast Applications

This paper investigates the interaction between net-work coding and link-layer transmission rate diversity in multi-hop wireless networks. By appropriately mixing data packets at intermediate nodes, network coding allows a single multicast flow to achieve higher throughput to a set of receivers. Broadcast applications can also exploit link-layer rate diversity, whereby individual nodes can transmit at faster rates at the expense of corresponding smaller coverage area. We first demonstrate how combining rate-diversity with network coding can provide a larger capacity for data dissemination of a single multicast flow, and how consideration of rate diversity is critical for maximizing system throughput. We also study the impact of both network coding and rate diversity on the dissemination latency for a class of quasi real-time applications, where the freshness of disseminated data is important. Our results provide evidence that network coding may lead to a latency-vs-throughput tradeoff in wireless environments, and that it is thus necessary to adapt the degree of network coding to ensure conformance to both throughput and latency objectives.
Interaction of acenocoumarol and sitaxentan in pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Background Sitaxentan inhibits the metabolism of warfarin, resulting in a need for adjustment of warfarin dose when both drugs are coadministered. We report the long-term effects on bleeding of acenocoumarol co-administered as part of conventional therapy for pulmonary hypertension with sitaxentan in a subset of patients enrolled in the Sitaxentan To Relieve ImpaireD Exercise-3 (STRIDE-3) study. Materials and methods STRIDE-3 is an ongoing, long-term, open-label trial, evaluating the safety and efficacy of sitaxentan, 100 mg once daily, in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Information on bleeding events was collected prospectively, including the type of event, severity, anticoagulant use and investigator attribution of causality. Coagulation tests were performed on a monthly basis. A clinically significant interaction was defined as an international normalized ratio (INR) ≥ 5·0, or any minor bleeding event plus an INR > 2·0 and < 5·0. Results Of 55 patients enrolled in STRIDE-3, 50 received acenocoumarol. Average follow-up was 158·6 ± 57·6 weeks. The average dose of anticoagulant therapy was 3·9 ± 1·3 mg week−1 (range, 1·5–7·0 mg week−1). Following treatment, an INR ≥ 5 in at least one INR determination was observed in 13 patients, although none of these patients had a clinically significant bleeding event. Dose reductions in acenocoumarol were performed to adjust target INR to 1·5–2·0. Two patients died of massive haemoptysis, but these episodes were not attributed to a drug interaction. Four patients with an INR > 2·0 and < 5·0 experienced a minor bleeding event (nosebleeds/gingivitis). Conclusions No clinically significant bleeding events were recorded with coadministration of sitaxentan and acenocoumarol in this patient subgroup. These results suggest that coadministration of sitaxentan and acenocoumarol is clinically manageable and well tolerated.
History of Space Shuttle Rendezvous and Proximity Operations

Space Shuttle rendezvous missions present unique challenges that were not fully recognized when the Shuttle was designed. Rendezvous targets could be passive (i.e., no lights or transponders), and not designed to facilitate Shuttle rendezvous, proximity operations, and retrieval. Shuttle reaction control system jet plume impingement on target spacecraft presented induced dynamics, structural loading, and contamination concerns. These issues, along with limited reaction control system propellant in the Shuttle nose, drove a change from the legacy Gemini/Apollo coelliptic profile to a stable orbit profile, and the development of new proximity operations techniques. Multiple scientific and on-orbit servicing missions, and crew exchange, assembly and replenishment flights to Mir and to the International Space Station drove further profile and piloting technique changes. These changes included new proximity operations, relative navigation sensors, and new computer generated piloting cues. However, the Shuttle's baseline rendezvous navigation system has not required modification to place the Shuttle at the proximity operations initiation point for all rendezvous missions flown.
Hemodynamics of the Orthotopic Homotransplanted Canine Heart

Abstract The physiological performance of the orthotopic homotransplanted heart was examined through four phases from the time of operation until death in rejection. Serial hemodynamic studies were performed on the resting unanesthetized dog. Immediately after operation cardiac output, stroke volume, mean systolic ejection rate, peak velocity, and acceleration were reduced. The arterial pressure was normal and peripheral resistance increased. Within 24 to 48 hours all values were within normal limits. At the onset of rejection an early impairment in the contractile properties of the heart was demonstrated by decrements in peak velocity, maximum rate of change of velocity, mean systolic ejection rate, and by a progressive inability to increase stroke volume. Late in rejection the values declined still further, with low cardiac output, low stroke volume, reduced systolic and diastolic pressures, and high venous pressure. The animals eventually died in heart failure.
Recent advances in direct methods for solving unsymmetric sparse systems of linear equations

During the past few years, algorithmic improvements alone have reduced the time required for the direct solution of unsymmetric sparse systems of linear equations by almost an order of magnitude. This paper compares the performance of some well-known software packages for solving general sparse systems. In particular, it demonstrates the consistently high level of performance achieved by WSMP---the most recent of such solvers. It compares the various algorithmic components of these solvers and discusses their impact on solver performance. Our experiments show that the algorithmic choices made in WSMP enable it to run more than twice as fast as the best among similar solvers and that WSMP can factor some of the largest sparse matrices available from real applications in only a few seconds on a 4-CPU workstation. Thus, the combination of advances in hardware and algorithms makes it possible to solve those general sparse linear systems quickly and easily that might have been considered too large until recently.
Effects of sodium bromate on ionic concentrations and osmolalities of the cochlear fluids in guinea pigs

Effects of sodium bromate on cochlear potentials and electrolyte composition of the cochlear fluids in guinea pigs were investigated following administration of sodium bromate into the cochlea, using perilymphatic perfusion. Cochlear microphonics and the whole nerve action potential of the auditory nerve were markedly suppressed. The K+ and Cl- activities in the endolymph as well as the endocochlear dc potential (EP) decreased significantly and irreversibly, in proportion to the concentration of sodium bromate. A negative EP never developed during the monitoring of 120 min. Microsamples of the endolymph showed substantial decreases of K+ and Cl- concentrations and an increase in the concentration of Na+. Osmolality of the endolymph was much lower than that of the perilymph. The severe edema of the stria vascularis and collapse of Reissner's membrane were histologically evident. These events suggest a breakdown of the endolymph-perilymph barrier, coincident with an inhibition of the strial active transport, as a result of the ototoxic action of sodium bromate. The possible ion and water movement across the endolymph-perilymph barrier in the presence of sodium bromate is discussed.
Comparison of adaptive methods for one-dimensional parabolic systems

Abstract We describe two adaptive space-time hp -refinement algorithms for solving one-dimensional vector systems of parabolic partial differential equations. Solutions for both methods are calculated using Galerkin's method with a piecewise polynomial hierarchical basis in space. The first method, hpsirk , uses singly-implicit Runge-Kutta methods in time and integrates the spatial and temporal discretization strategies. The second, hpdassl , is a method-of-lines approach using a BDF code. The two methods are compared along with the algorithm epdcol as a benchmark on four nonlinear test problems.
Tests for frequency-dependent mating success in the house fly.

Tests for frequency-dependent mating success indicate that the sort of minority male advantage found in manyDrosophila species is not present in the house fly. There appears to be a relationship between the presence of the minority male effect and obvious complex courtship behavior in most of the organisms that have been tested.
Validity of perturbative expansions in theories of cyclotron resonance line shape

A recent claim by Choi, Yi and Chung that the Argyres-Sigel theory of cyclotron resonance line shape is invalid is proved to be wrong.
Asymptotics for Lp-norms of Fourier series density estimators

LetX1, X2, ⋯, be a sequence of independent, identically distributed bounded random variables with a smooth density functionf. We prove that\(\int_a^b | f_{m,n} (t) - f(t)|^p w(t)dt(1 \leqslant p< \infty )\) is asymptotically normal, wherefm, n is the Fourier series density estimator offandw is a nonnegative weight function.
Implementation of video presentation in database systems

In order to flexibly and efficiently store, manage, and present video data streams, continuous video data must be chopped into video objects and stored into database. This paper investigates systematic strategies for supporting continuous and synchronized presentation of video data streams in multimedia database systems. Compressed video data streams are segmented and stored as sets of video objects coupled with specified synchronization requirements. Strategies for efficiently scheduling and buffering video objects are presented which guarantee the hiccup-free presentations of video streams. Delay effects are considered in these strategies. We propose to extend the existing object-oriented database system (OODBS) techniques to include the proposed video presentation mechanisms. We are currently designing and implementing a multimedia presentation tool (termed MediaShow) on top of O2, a well-known OODBS, as a basis for our implementation. However, the design strategies can be generally used in any OODBS environments that support C++ interface.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Nonequilibrium fluctuations, effective temperature, and effective interactions driven by irradiation of alloys

We study alloy systems subjected to sustained particle irradiation, where short-ranged thermally assisted diffusion competes with the finite-ranged random atomic exchanges forced by irradiation. For the case of binary alloys undergoing phase separation, we introduce a kinetic continuum description of the evolution of the composition field under irradiation, with a self-consistent treatment of the composition fluctuations. We derive an analytical formula for the structure factor at steady state. In the limiting case of short-ranged ballistic jumps, this formula indicates that the effective temperature criterion originally derived by G. Martin [Phys. Rev. B 30, 1424 (1984)] applies not only to the driving force but to the fluctuations as well. In the case of finite-ranged ballistic jumps, however, the formula indicates that the concept of an effective temperature breaks down, but that one can make use of a more general approach involving effective atomic interactions. In particular, under appropriate irradiation conditions, finite-ranged ballistic jumps lead to finite-ranged effective interactions, which translate into the dynamical stabilization of finite-scale composition patterns.
Time of origin of neurons of the rat inferior colliculus and the relations between cytogenesis and tonotopic order in the auditory pathway.

Groups of pregnant rats were injected with two successive daily doses of 3H-thymidine from gestational day 12 and 13 (E12+13) until the day before parturition (E21+22) in order to label in their embryos the proliferating precursors of neurons. At 60 days of age the proportion of neurons generated (or no longer labelled) on specific embryonic days was determined quantitatively in six vertical strips of the inferior colliculus. It was established that the neurons of the inferior colliculus are produced between days E14 and the perinatal period in an orderly sequence: the earliest generated cells are situated rostrally, laterally and ventrally in the principal nucleus, the latest generated cells are situated caudally, medially and dorsally in the pericentral nucleus. This cytogenetic gradient suggested that the cells are produced dorsally in the caudal recess of the embryonic aqueduct and are deployed in an “outsidein” pattern. This study has brought to a conclusion our datings of neuron production in the central auditory pathway of the rat. The results revealed that in those structures in which a cytogenetic gradient could be recognized, the orientation of this gradient and the regional tonotopic order (demonstrated mostly in species other than the rat) tended to be aligned. Moreover, with the exception of the medial trapezoid nucleus and the dorsal nucleus of the lateral lemniscus (which receive contralateral input from the cochlear nuclei), sites with early-produced neurons correlated with units responding preferentially to high frequency tones and vice versa. This suggested that the orderly production of neurons within different components of the auditory system is a factor in their subsequent topographic organization. A comparison of the temporal order of neuron production in different components of the auditory pathway suggested that the establishment of orderly topographic relations between some of the structures (e.g., the medial geniculate body and the primary auditory cortex) takes place before this spatial relationship could be specified as a cochleotopic order.
Depression and fatigue in relapsing-remitting MS: the role of symptomatic variability

Depression and fatigue are common psychosocial sequelae of MS. An infrequently examined issue in the MS literature is the effect of MS-related symptom variability on incidence of depression and fatigue. The current study was designed to examine the relationship of variability in physical, cognitive, and social/environmental functioning with depression and fatigue in MS. Forty-eight relapsing-remitting MS patients from a larger sample completed self-report measures of depression and fatigue. They were also administered a structured interview that assessed current, best, and worst levels of functioning since being diagnosed with MS. Higher levels of symptom variability since disease onset were associated with depression and fatigue, even after accounting for MS-related physical disability. Regression analyses indicated that variability in social and environmental functioning was particularly associated with depression, and variability in physical abilities was associated with fatigue. These findings suggest that a more variable course of MS symptoms is associated with increased depression and fatigue. Focused assessment of variability in symptoms may be useful in detecting and subsequently treating depression and fatigue in MS patients.
A field based model for determining adult communication behaviors

This paper reports the results of stage two of a three‐stage project designed to develop, through field testing, a model for determining the norms of general adult communication behavior. The model uses data derived from a self‐report system, considering categories in the dimensions of location, occupation, age, sex, and educational level.
Dentistry’s Role in New National Health Legislation: Regional Medical Programs

With the expansion of hospital dental services and emphasis on other programs, dentistry can become an important part of the Regional Medical Programs.
Myxoid dermatofibrohistiocytoma: an indolent post‐traumatic tumor composed of CD34+ epithelioid and dendritic cells and factor XIIIa+ dendrophages

Factor XIIIa+ dendrophages and CD34+ "deep dermal dendrocytes" are distinct subsets of embryonic dermal dendritic stem cells that persist in interstitial and adventitial sites in adult dermis. We encountered a unique myxoid dermal tumor composed of these two cell types. It arose after trauma to the thumb of a 49-year-old man and was locally excised. The patient is without recurrence at 18 months. The disc-shaped tumor was lobulated, yellow, and mucoid and involved the margins. A fibrillar myxoid stroma contained mast cells, wispy collagen with medium-to-small vessels, and loosely deployed small eosinophilic tumor cells. The tumor cells were amitotic and had oval or bean-shaped, bland nuclei; some cells were binucleated. The cells were epithelioid or dendritic with bipolar, stellate, and racquet-shaped cytosomes whose tapering cell processes blended with fibrillar collagen. Vacuolated epithelioid cells focally formed vessel-like luminal structure. All cells strongly expressed vimentin. Thirty percent of the tumor cells were elongated, dendritic factor XIIIa+ cells whose dendritic processes enshrouded mast cells or FXIIIa-negative tumor cells. A subset of the FXIIIa+ cells also expressed MAC387 and lysozyme. The other 70% of the cells were CD34+. Many CD34+ cells were epithelioid with strong membrane and vacuolar decoration. Some CD34+ epithelioid cells had globular cytoplasmic inclusions. Other CD34+ cells were dendritic with multipolar fibrobroblast-like cytosomes and weaker CD34+ membrane decoration. Actin and S-100 were negative. Ki 67 was expressed in 1% of the tumor cells. Double stains for CD34 and Ki 67 showed that both CD34+ cells and FXIIIa+ dendrophages were Ki 67+, as were many papillary dermal vessel endothelial cells. The composition of the tumor by mast cells, FXIIIa+ dendrophages, and CD34+ primitive cells recapitulates the dermal microvascular unit. We propose the descriptive term myxoid dermatofibrohistiocytoma (MD) for this novel tumor. It appears to be an unusual response by dermal dendritic cells, perhaps due to continued stimulation by post-traumatic cytokines. Clarification of its biology and nosology awaits identification and study of more cases.
Effect of lung and target density on small-field dose coverage and PTV definition.

We have studied the effect of target and lung density on block margin for small stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) targets. A phantom (50 × 50 × 50 cm{sup 3}) was created in the Pinnacle (V9.2) planning system with a 23-cm diameter lung region of interest insert. Diameter targets of 1.6, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 cm were placed in the lung region of interest and centered at a physical depth of 15 cm. Target densities evaluated were 0.1 to 1.0 g/cm{sup 3}, whereas the surrounding lung density was varied between 0.05 and 0.6 g/cm{sup 3}. A dose of 100 cGy was delivered to the isocenter via a single 6-MV field, and the ratio of the average dose to points defining the lateral edges of the target to the isocenter dose was recorded for each combination. Field margins were varied from none to 1.5 cm in 0.25-cm steps. Data obtained in the phantom study were used to predict planning treatment volume (PTV) margins that would match the clinical PTV and isodose prescription for a clinical set of 39 SBRT cases. The average internal target volume (ITV) density was 0.73 ± 0.17, average local lung density was 0.33 ± 0.16, and average ITVmore » diameter was 2.16 ± 0.8 cm. The phantom results initially underpredicted PTV margins by 0.35 cm. With this offset included in the model, the ratio of predicted-to-clinical PTVs was 1.05 ± 0.32. For a given target and lung density, it was found that treatment margin was insensitive to target diameter, except for the smallest (1.6-cm diameter) target, for which the treatment margin was more sensitive to density changes than the larger targets. We have developed a graphical relationship for block margin as a function of target and lung density, which should save time in the planning phase by shortening the design of PTV margins that can satisfy Radiation Therapy Oncology Group mandated treatment volume ratios.« less
X-ray diffraction analysis of bandgap-engineered distributed bragg reflectors

Compositionally graded interfaces between constitutive layers of the distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) in vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) greatly reduce operating voltages. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of high-resolution x-ray diffraction (HRXRD) in the characterization of a bandgap-engineered DBR. The final structure of the DBR is determined by comparing the Bragg peak intensities and locations in the x-ray rocking curve measurements with those of dynamical x-ray diffraction simulations. The aluminum concentration of the graded interface region is determined as a function of distance to within 2%. The width of the interface is accurate to within 1.5 nm. Such sensitivity demonstrates the utility of the non-invasive x-ray technique in characterizing not only the DBR, but also the entire VCSEL structure.
Lead-induced ultrastructural changes in chloroplasts of the hydrophyte, Ceratophyllum demersum

Summary Striking changes in chloroplast fine structure accompany the growth of Ceratophyllum demersum in an aquatic medium containing lead nitrate chelated with EDTA. A change in the organization of the lamellar system is the most noticeable feature. While chloroplasts of untreated leaf cells contain many well-developed grana, those of lead-exposed leaf cells show a reduced number of grana stacks and a highly congested fretwork. The amount of stroma in relation to the lamellar system is markedly reduced, leaving little unoccupied matrix within the organelle. Other observable changes involve the starch grains and the conspicuous plastoglobuli. The former are either absent or greatly reduced in size. The plastoglobuli, in marked contrast to those present in untreated chloroplasts, exhibit a total loss of electron density. Additionally, they often appear to be smaller in size and greater in number than in chloroplasts of untreated plants. It is suggested that since these morphological alterations within the organelle may be sufficient to eventually result in cell death, the chloroplast should be considered as the primary candidate for lead-associated phytotoxicity. Possible relationships between sites of inhibition and the resultant structural abnormalities are discussed.
Prolonged blockade of opioid effect with oral nalmefene

In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study we evaluated the ability of a single 50 mg oral dose of nalmefene to block the effects of intravenous opioid challenge (2 µg/kg fentanyl). Fentanyl-induced respiratory depression (CO2 responsiveness), analgesia (tourniquet ischemia), and subjective effects were totally blocked for 48 hours and showed only minimal breakthrough 72 hours after nalmefene. Plasma concentration-time data for nalmefene indicate good oral bioavailability and a prolonged terminal elimination phase (mean t1/2 11.1 hours). These findings suggest that nalmefene could provide prolonged effectiveness in limiting emergence of opioid effects during addiction therapy. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1986) 40, 537–542; doi:10.1038/clpt.1986.220
A mid-infrared scanned-wavelength laser absorption sensor for carbon monoxide and temperature measurements from 900 to 4000 K

Mid-infrared laser absorption sensors based on quantum cascade laser (QCL) technology offer the potential for high-sensitivity, selective, and high-speed measurements of temperature and concentration for species of interest in high-temperature environments, such as those found in combustion devices. A new mid-infrared QCL absorption sensor for carbon monoxide and temperature measurements has been developed near the intensity peak of the CO fundamental band at 4.6 μm, providing orders-of-magnitude greater sensitivity than the overtone bands accessible with telecommunications lasers. The sensor is capable of probing the R(9), R(10), R(17), and R(18) transitions of the CO fundamental ro-vibrational band which are located at frequencies where H2O and CO2 spectral interference is minimal. Temperature measurements are made via scanned-wavelength two-line ratio techniques using either the R(9) and R(17) or the R(10) and R(18) line pairs. The high-speed (1–2 kHz) scanned-wavelength sensor is demonstrated in room-temperature gas cell measurements of CO and, to demonstrate the potential of the sensor for high-temperature thermometry, in shock-heated gases containing CO for a very wide range of temperature (950–3500 K) near 1 atm. To our knowledge, these measurements represent the first use of QCL-based absorption sensor for thermometry at elevated combustion-like temperatures. The high-temperature measurements of CO mole fraction and temperature agree with the post-reflected-shock conditions within ±1.5% and ±1.2% (1σ deviation), respectively.
Megan’s Law: Evaluations of Sexual Offender Registries

This article presents a literature review of the empirical evaluations of sex offender registration and community notification policy, commonly known as Megan’s Law. A background of the social problem that stimulated the policy formation of Megan’s Law is provided. Literature searches presented 12 empirical evaluations on different aspects of Megan’s Law. These evaluations focused on stakeholder, client-centered, goal-oriented, and process evaluations. Many sex offenders found some value to Megan’s Law in both deterring future abuse and when DNA collection was used in reducing false accusations. Implementation of this policy varied both within states and between states. Community members generally support the policy’s concept. Goal-oriented evaluations are not supportive of the policy’s effectiveness. Suggestions for future evaluative research on this policy are given.
Spectroscopic Effects of Rotation in Extended Stellar Atmospheres

Rotation can markedly impact the interpretation of spectral diagnostics from hot stars with winds. Using a newly developed formal solution code, and a semianalytic model for the effects of rotation on the wind structure, we investigate the effects of rotation on the observed spectrum. Nonphotospheric lines formed in extended, optically thick atmospheres do not show just the simple classical Doppler line broadening. In such cases the traditional method of convolving the line profile with a rotation profile is insufficient. To handle these situations, we start with a sophisticated one-dimensional model of a stellar atmosphere and use a two-dimensional observer's-frame code to calculate the observed effect on line profiles under various assumptions about the two-dimensional velocity field and density distribution. Because it should generally be a small effect, rotational distortion of the stellar surface is currently ignored. Gravity darkening is also not handled at this time. Importantly, the code handles arbitrary line profiles and line blends, and lines formed at any depth in the stellar photosphere or wind. We apply the code to models that were used to investigate the Small Magellanic Cloud O7 Iaf+ supergiant AV 83. We find that the distortions in the velocity field caused by rotation can have a significant influence on the profile shape, while modifications to the density structure primarily influence the line strength. These affect the quality of the spectroscopic fits to the data, and consequently, the derived velocity field and other stellar parameters might be significantly biased for rapidly rotating stars with extended winds. The code will made available with CMFGEN and can be used to examine the influence of rotation on spectroscopic fitting and derived stellar parameters.
Star Polymers with Alternating Arms from Miktofunctional μ-Initiators Using Consecutive Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization and Ring-Opening Polymerization

The synthesis of unique miktofunctional μ-initiators, combining initiator sites for both controlled ring-opening polymerization (ROP) and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) arranged in an alternating fashion, is described. This initiator was used to prepare miktoarm star block copolymers in a core-out approach utilizing consecutive ATRP and ROP processes. NMR and GPC studies on the block copolymers comprising poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(caprolactone) (PCL) confirm the versatility of this approach which is independent of the order of polymerization. Furthermore, amphiphilic alternating arm block copolymers containing poly(caprolactone) and poly(acrylic acid) blocks were also prepared by this method.
Testable path delay fault cover for sequential circuits

We present an algorithm for identifying a set of faults that do not have to be targeted by a sequential delay test generator. These faults either cannot independently affect the performance of the circuit or no test can be generated for them. To find such faults, our methodology takes advantage of the sequential behavior of the circuit as well as of the information about uncontrollable signals in the sequential circuit. It can handle sequential circuits described as two- or multi-level netlists. The outcome of applying our methodology is reduced delay test generation effort and smaller test set. We present experimental results on several ISCAS 89 benchmark circuits demonstrating that a large number of path delay faults in these circuits either cannot or does not have to be examined for delay defects.
A tangible construction kit for exploring graph theory

Graphs are a versatile representation of many systems in computer science, the social sciences, and mathematics, but graph theory is not taught in schools. We present our work on Graphmaster, a computationally enhanced construction kit that enables children to build graphs of their own and investigate their properties by experimenting with algorithms that operate on them. The system is distributed; microcontrollers inside each node execute an interpreted language in parallel. Graphmaster, with its magnetic connectors, illuminated edges, and capacitive sensing, encourages children to develop intuitions about connectivity long before they are introduced to the notation and formulas of graph theory.
The Ratios of CD8+ T Cells to CD4+CD25+ FOXP3+ and FOXP3- T Cells Correlate with Poor Clinical Outcome in Human Serous Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is an immune reactive malignancy with a complex immune suppressive network that blunts successful immune eradication. This suppressive microenvironment may be mediated by recruitment or induction of CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Our study sought to investigate the association of tumor-infiltrating CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs, and other immune factors, with clinical outcome in serous ovarian cancer patients. We performed immunofluorescence and quantification of intraepithelial tumor-infiltrating triple positive Tregs (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+), as well as CD4+CD25+FOXP3-, CD3+ and CD8+ T cells in tumor specimens from 52 patients with high stage serous ovarian carcinoma. Thirty-one of the patients had good survival (i.e. > 60 months) and 21 had poor survival of < 18 months. Total cell counts as well as cell ratios were compared among these two outcome groups. The total numbers of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs, CD4+CD25+FOXP3-, CD3+ and CD8+ cells were not significantly different between the groups. However, higher ratios of CD8+/CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg, CD8+/CD4+ and CD8/CD4+CD25+FOXP3- cells were seen in the good outcome group when compared to the patients with poor outcome. These data show for the first time that the ratios of CD8+ to both CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs and CD4+CD25+FOXP3- T cells are associated with disease outcome in ovarian cancer. The association being apparent in ratios rather than absolute count of T cells suggests that the effector/suppressor ratio may be a more important indicator of outcome than individual cell count. Thus, immunotherapy strategies that modify the ratio of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs or CD4+CD25+FOXP3- T cells to CD8+ effector cells may be useful in improving outcomes in ovarian cancer.
CO-OP DOE foundry process results

The DARPA-funded Consortium for Optical and Optoelectronic Technologies for Computing (CO-OP) recently completed the first DOE Foundry run delivering ten samples to each of nineteen users, each with a unique design. The binary optics process was used to provide a maximum of eight phase levels at a design wavelength of 850 nm. Averaged over all users and all samples, an etch depth error of one percent and alignment accuracy within 0.25 micron were achieved. This paper summarizes the details of the process results.