cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CT, US and MRI of Xanthine Urinary Stones: In-Vitro and In-Vivo Analyses

Xanthine urinary stones are a rare entity that may occur in patients with Lesch–Nyhan syndrome receiving allopurinol. There is little literature describing imaging characteristics of these stones, and the most appropriate approach to imaging these stones is therefore unclear. We performed in-vitro and in-vivo analyses of xanthine stones using computed tomography (CT) at different energy levels, ultrasound (US), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Five pure xanthine stones from a child with Lesch-Nyhan were imaged in-vitro and in-vivo. CT of the stones was performed at 80 kVp, 100 kVp, 120 kVp and 140 kVp and CT numbers of the stones were recorded in Hounsfield units (HU). US of the stones was performed and echogenicity, acoustic shadowing and twinkle artifact were assessed. MRI of the stones was performed and included T2-weighted, ultrashort echo-time-weighted and T2/T1-weighted 3D bFFE sequences and signal was assessed. In-vitro analysis on CT demonstrated that xanthine stones were radiodense and the average attenuation coefficient did not differ with varying kVp, measuring 331.0 ± 51.7 HU at 80 kVp, 321.4 ± 63.4 HU at 100 kVp, 329.7 ± 54.2 HU at 120 kVp and 328.4 ± 61.1 HU at 140 kVp. In-vivo analysis on CT resulted in an average attenuation of 354 ± 35 HU. On US, xanthine stones where echogenic with acoustic shadowing and twinkle artifact. On MRI, stones lacked signal on all tested sequences. Xanthine stone analyses, both in-vitro and in-vivo, demonstrate imaging characteristics typical of most urinary stones: dense on CT, echogenic on US, and lacking signal on MRI. Therefore, the approach to imaging xanthine stones should be comparable to that of other urinary stones.
Risk Factors Associated With Adverse Outcomes After Ventral Hernia Repair With Component Separation.

Abstract Background Over 350,000 surgeries are performed for ventral hernias (VHs) annually. Abdominal wall component separation has been more frequently used for the management of VHs. The goal of this study is to better understand factors associated with component separation complication rates. Methods The National Inpatient Sample (2005-2014) was used to identify all patients with an International Classification of Diseases ninth Revision diagnosis of VHs who underwent open VH repair with a pedicleor graft advancement flap. All cases included in this study were elective and not associated with additional procedures. Demographic, clinical, and hospital characteristics were extracted. Independent predictors of complications and outcomes were determined by multivariable regression analysis. Results Component separation was performed in 4346 patients. Mean age was 56; majority were female (55%) and white (80%). Most patients (73%) underwent surgery in an urban teaching hospital; mesh was used in 80% of cases and 11% were smokers. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (50%), followed by obesity (26%), diabetes mellitus (DM) (23%), coronary artery disease (11%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (8%). Half of the patients (50%) had private insurance, and 35% had Medicare. Patients were distributed equally over household income quartiles. The mortality rate was 0.5%; median length of stay was 5 d. Overall complication rate was 25% (wound 11%, intraoperative 5%, infectious 11%, and pulmonary 8%). Mesh was associated with a lower rate of wound complications (10% versus 15%, P = 0.001). On multivariable analysis, patients with COPD (odds ratio: 2.02; 95% confidence interval: 1.58-2.59), obesity (1.37; 1.16-1.63), DM (1.3; 1.09-1.55), and those in the lowest income quartile (1.44; 1.06-1.96) had higher overall complication rates. Conclusions Consistent with other studies, patients with COPD, Obesity, DM, and lower income status were associated with increased complications after component separation.
Machine Learning in EDA: Opportunities and Challenges

Electronic Design Automation software has delivered semiconductor design productivity improvements for decades. The next leap in productivity will come from the addition of machine learning techniques to the toolbox of computational software capabilities employed by EDA developers. Recent research and development into machine learning for EDA point to clear patterns for how it impacts EDA tools, flows, and design challenges. This research has also illustrated some of the challenges that will come with production deployment of machine learning techniques into EDA tools and flows. This talk will detail patterns observed in ML for EDA development, as well as discussing challenges with productization of ML for EDA developments and the opportunities that it presents for researchers.Biography: Elias Fallon is currently Engineering Group Director at Cadence Design Systems, a leading Electronic Design Automation company. He has been involved in EDA for more than 20 years from the founding of Neolinear, Inc, which was acquired by Cadence in 2004. Elias was co-Primary Investigator on the MAGESTIC project, funded by DARPA to investigate the application of Machine Learning to EDA for Package/PCB and Analog IC. Elias also leads an innovation incubation team within the Custom IC R&D group as well as other traditional EDA product teams. Beyond his work developing electronic design automation tools, he has led software quality improvement initiatives within Cadence, partnering with the Carnegie Mellon Software Engineering Institute. Elias graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with an M.S. and B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Elias, his wife and two children live north of Pittsburgh, PA. https://www.linkedin.com/in/elias-fallon/
Coordinated Voltage Control for Conservation Voltage Reduction in Power Distribution Systems

An efficient distribution grid operation can be achieved using network-level optimization modeled as a distribution optimal power flow (D-OPF) problem. The variable power generation profiles of distributed energy resources (DERs) may render the optimal control decisions that are obtained in advance using D-OPF methods to sub-optimal. This paper presents a coordinated centralized and local control approach that simultaneously achieves network-level objective, in this case conservation voltage reduction (CVR), while mitigating the impacts of DER variability on optimal control set-points. The centralized controller solves a D-OPF problem for substation power reduction using a bi-level approach to control the system’s legacy voltage control devices (voltage regulator and capacitor banks) and smart inverters. A penalty successive linear programming (PSLP) approach is used to obtain a computationally tractable DOPF model. Next, an adaptive volt-var droop control for the local control of smart inverters is proposed to minimize the voltage deviations wrt. the centralized control set-points. The proposed coordinated control approach is validated using IEEE 123-node test system, and it is shown to achieve the desired CVR objective even with significant levels of DER variability.
Migrating Monarch Butterfly Localization Using Multi-Modal Sensor Fusion Neural Networks

Details of Monarch butterfly migration from the U.S. to Mexico remain a mystery due to lack of a proper localization technology to accurately localize and track butterfly migration. In this paper, we propose a deep learning based butterfly localization algorithm that can estimate a butterfly’s daily location by analyzing a light and temperature sensor data log continuously obtained from an ultra-low power, millimeter (mm)-scale sensor attached to the butterfly. To train and test the proposed neural network based multi-modal sensor fusion localization algorithm, we collected over 1500 days of real world sensor measurement data by 82 volunteers all over the U.S. The proposed algorithm exhibits a mean absolute error of < 1.7° in latitude and < 0.6° in longitude Earth coordinate, satisfying our target goal for the Monarch butterfly migration study.
Exploring the synthesis and characterization of fac-Re(CO)3L complexes using diethylenetriamine derivative functionalized at the central nitrogen

Abstract The aim of this research is to develop new rhenium complexes with favorable bio-distribution properties which can be used as radiometal complexes or for conjugation with biomolecules for the development of targeted radiolabelled biopharmaceuticals. Two metals of interest utilized in radiopharmaceuticals are technetium and rhenium, both of which share similar chemical and structural properties. The coordination chemistry of these metals is highly dependent upon ligands that are structurally and chemically robust among other factors. The synthesis of new symmetrical tridentate ligands and ligand conjugation methods will expand the likelihood of developing suitable fac-[Re(CO)3L]n compounds with promising biomedical properties and were consequently the subject of this investigation. In order to accomplish this, the design, synthesis, characterization and X-ray structure of new water-soluble rhenium complexes for assessing metal binding to biomolecules were investigated. Three diethylenetriamine (dien) derivatives, 2-(bis(2-aminoethyl)amino)-N-(2-oxo-4-(trifluoromethyl)-2H-chromen-7-yl)acetamide (atfcdien, 3), 2-(bis(2-aminoethyl)amino)-N-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)acetamide (tfmedien, 6), and N-benzyl-2-(bis(2-aminomethyl)amino)acetamide (badien, 9) and their rhenium complexes were synthesized. 1H NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and X-ray crystallography techniques were employed to characterize the ligands and their rhenium complexes [Re(CO)3atfcdien]Br (10), [Re(CO)3tfmedien]Br (11) and [Re(CO)3badien]Br (12). 1H NMR studies were conducted to examine chelated Re complexes revealed a consistent downfield shift of the CH signal of the dien moiety for all three new ligands.
Experimental and computational investigation of wall-mounted displacement induction ventilation system

Abstract Traditional displacement ventilation (DV) creates high indoor air quality in occupied zone in cooling season due to thermal plume created by heat sources which then effectively purge contaminants out of the breathing zone, but tend to be challenged when high cooling loads are present. In addition, traditional DV, when supplying heated air via its diffusers has low ventilation effectiveness in heating season. This study investigated a novel wall-mounted displacement induction ventilation (DIV) system in comparison to traditional DV system. The investigation used an environmental chamber to mimic a typical classroom and measured the distributions of air velocity, air temperature, and contaminant concentration for validating the subsequent computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model developed across an array of operational modes. Then the CFD model was employed to evaluate the performance of DIV system in terms of ventilation effectiveness, mean age of air and vertical temperature gradient as it relates to thermal comfort. Each DIV unit receives 100% outdoor (or primary) air to its plenum chamber. As the primary air pressurizes the chamber, it exits a series of nozzles, creating a low pressure which then induces room air across the integral hydronic coil. A room is typically supplied with multiple DIV units, which allows for individual control operation during both cooling and heating modes. Results showed that stratified air distribution was achieved in both cooling and heating modes with DIV system, which remedied the current limitation of traditional DV.
Microbiological Threats to Water Quality

Publisher Summary Microbiological hazards in water supplies are among the most serious hazards facing developing nations. Viral agents can cause a wide array of diseases of which many are difficult to treat. Bacterial agents include species causing a wide array of diseases, many quite dangerous. Risk of disease from water-borne pathogens and parasites is almost always a function of received dose. Direct count methods typically target larger, distinctive, or manipulable pathogens. Culture-based approaches include fermentation tube, colorimetric, and filtration–incubation methods. The challenges inherent in quantifying even a short list of microbial threats to human health include difficulties with handling and culturing target organisms, and the risk of exposing field and laboratory personnel to dangerous pathogens. Water-borne microbial pathogens pose significant health threats to humans, and challenges for investigators and water-quality managers. A variety of tools are developed for estimating and identifying microbial sources of water quality impairment, but significant improvements in the utility and specificity of these tools remain to be developed. The ecology itself of water-borne pathogens poses additional basic sampling challenges.
Teaching multi-robot coordination using demonstration of communication and state sharing

Solutions to complex tasks often require the cooperation of multiple robots, however, developing multi-robot policies can present many challenges. In this work, we introduce teaching by demonstration in the context of multi-robot tasks, enabling a single teacher to instruct multiple robots to work together through a demonstration of the desired behavior. Within this framework, we contribute two approaches for teaching coordination based on different communication and information sharing strategies. To enable the teacher to divide attention between multiple robots, each robot uses a confidence-based algorithm that allows it to regulate its autonomy and determine the need for demonstration. Evaluation is performed using two Sony QRIO robots learning a real-world collaborative ball sorting task.
Maximum Entropy, Likelihood and Uncertainty: A Comparison

A framework for comparing the maximum likelihood (ML) and maximum entropy (ME) approaches is developed. Two types of linear models are considered. In the first type, the objective is to estimate probability distributions given some moment conditions. In this case the ME and ML are equivalent. A generalization of this type of estimation models to incorporate noisy data is discussed as well. The second type of models encompasses the traditional linear regression type models where the number of observations is larger than the number of unknowns and the objects to be inferred are not natural probabilities. After reviewing a generalized ME estimator and the empirical likelihood (or weighted least squares) estimator, the two are compared and contrasted with the ML. It is shown that, in general, the ME estimators use less input information and may be viewed, within the second type models, as expected log-likelihood estimators. In terms of informational ranking, if the objective is to estimate with minimum a-priori assumptions, then the generalized ME estimator is superior to the other estimators. Two detailed examples, reflecting the two types of models, are discussed. The first example deals with estimating a first order Markov process. In the second example the empirical (natural) weights of each observation, together with the other unknowns, are the subject of interest.
A one-bit swap object using test-and-sets and a max register

We describe a linearizable, wait-free implementation of a one-bit swap object from a single max register and an unbounded array of test-and-set bits. Each swap operation takes at most three steps. Using standard randomized constructions, the max register and test-and-set bits can be replaced by read-write registers, at the price of raising the cost of a swap operation to an expected O(max(log n, min(log t, n))) steps, where t is the number of times the swap object has previously changed its value and n is the number of processes.
Sanitary Landfills, Stigma and Industrial Land Values

A significant literature exists that documents reductions in property value around toxic, chemical and in some cases solid waste landfills. There is also an emerging literature on stigma-related damage, which can be defined as a loss in value due to the increased risk associated with a contaminated property even after the problem has been eliminated. This research extends the empirical literature on landfills by examining the impact that solid waste landfills have on surrounding industrial property. The results indicate that the value of industrial land around an open, solid waste landfill is reduced by the presence of the landfill. Property around closed, solid waste landfills and open and closed refuse landfills is not adversely affected by the landfills. These results are not affected by the presence or absence of methane gas controls and ground water monitoring systems. Landfills sold with industrial zoning are discounted substantially by the market for various reasons, probably including limited alte...
Studies on the Biosynthesis of the Hydroxylysine-linked Disaccharide Unit of Basement Membranes and Collagens I. KIDNEY GLUCOSYLTRANSFERASE

Abstract A glucosyltransferase has been prepared from rat kidney cortex which is involved in the assembly of the hydroxylysine-linked glucosylgalactose disaccharide units of basement membranes and collagens. This enzyme has been purified from the high speed supernatant of the kidney cortex of 10-day-old rats by ammonium sulfate fractionation and Bio-Gel filtration. It has also been obtained by ultrasonic treatment of a particulate fraction from the kidney cortex. The enzyme was found to transfer glucose from UDP-glucose to hydroxylysine-linked galactose, either in high or low molecular weight compounds. These acceptors include native collagen from varied sources, glomerular basement membrane from which the glucose had been selectively removed, peptides containing galactosylhydroxylysine or galactosylhydroxylysine itself. The Km values for native calf skin collagen and "glucose-free" basement membrane were found to be 1.3 and 1.6 x 10-4 m, respectively, while that for galactosylhydroxylysine-containing peptides was determined to be 1.2 x 10-3 m, indicating that the enzyme has a greater affinity for the high molecular weight acceptors. Characterization of the product indicated that the enzyme formed the naturally occurring hydroxylysine-linked disaccharide (2 - O - α - d - glucopyranosyl - d - galactose). This enzyme may be designated as a UDP-glucose:galactosylhydroxylysine-collagen (basement membrane) glucosyltransferase, its primary role in kidney cortex being to participate in basement membrane synthesis. It was found that the e-amino group of the hydroxylysine, which is vicinal to the hydroxyl group to which galactose is attached, has to be unsubstituted in order for a compound to serve as an acceptor. The enzyme was inactive toward substrates containing terminal galactose residues linked to other amino acids or sugars, including sialic acid-free thyroglobulin glycopeptides, earthworm cuticle collagen glycopeptides, or lactose. Galactosylsphingosine (psychosine), however, was found to be an acceptor for this enzyme. Glucosylgalactosylsphingosine was formed and this transfer activity was shown by competitive inhibition studies to be a function of the same enzymatic site as is involved in the formation of glucosylgalactosylhydroxylysine. This lack of specificity is believed to be caused by the similarity which exists between the glycosidic linkage region of galactosylhydroxylysine and galactosylsphingosine. Although UDP-glucose was the preferred glycosyl donor for the glucosyltransferase with a Km value of 3.1 x 10-5 m, TDP- and CDP-glucose could serve in this capacity to a limited extent. The enzyme was found to have an absolute requirement for a divalent cation, manganese being the most effective. The pH optimum was 7.4. It was shown that the glucosyltransferase, working in concert with a kidney galactosyltransferase, could effect the synthesis of the hydroxylysine-linked disaccharide unit.
Sour Grapes: The Compromising Effect of the United States’ Failure to Protect Foreign Geographic Indications of Wines

The Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) is the arst signiacant multilateral agreement to expressly provide global protection to geographic indications (GIs) of wine. Although the United States is a party to this agreement, this Note argues that it has failed to bring domestic legislation in conformity with the mandates of the TRIPS Agreement regarding wine. While this has beneated many domestic vintners at the expense of their foreign counterparts, this Note also argues that the same failure may ultimately result in the exploitation of U.S. vintners as well. This point is illustrated by the current situation faced by the Napa Valley Vintners Association. Hongye Grape Wine Co., a winery in Beijing, has applied to register the GI “Napa Valley” as a trademark for use on wines that will be made from Chinese grapes and sold in China. Given the United States’ unwillingness to protect foreign GIs domestically, however, this Note concludes that in circumstances such as this, the United States cannot expect other countries to protect domestic GIs abroad.
Differences in response in vivo to amphotericin B among Candida albicans strains.

A group often Candida albicans strains previously determined to be resistant or susceptible to topical amphotericin B in vivo and in vitro were exposed to treatment with different concentrations of the drug in a quantitative model of candidal keratitis in Dutch-belted rabbits. After 5 days of topical treatment with amphotericin B eye drops in concentrations of 0.3%, 0.03%, or 0.003%, quantitative isolate recovery in treated animals was compared with that of untreated controls. A dose response was observed for all five susceptible strains. The two strains that were most sensitive to amphotericin B in vitro also were the most susceptible in vivo. At each dose level there was a two- to eightfold reduction in isolate recovery among highly susceptible strains compared with less susceptible strains (P < 0.05). The five resistant strains remained so even when the 0.3% concentration was used. Among strains of C. albicans susceptible to amphotericin B, there appeared to be a variation in degree of susceptibility in vivo that correlated with the minimum inhibitory concentration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 32:1569-1572,1991 In general, Candida albicam is susceptible to amphotericin B, although resistant strains occur. 1 In a previous study, the susceptibility of a group of C. albicans strains to amphotericin B was determined in a model of candidal keratitis in Dutch-belted rabbits. 2 The in vivo response correlated highly with the in vitro susceptibility. However, among susceptible strains, the response to amphotericin B varied considerably. Among resistant strains, the response was more uniform. To determine whether there was a true difference in susceptibility among the susceptible strains and whether some degree of susceptibility could be detected among those that appeared resistant in vivo to amphotericin B, dose-response studies to this drug were done using the same model of experimental candidal keratitis.
Book Bytes -- Exploring the Computer Connection

A sample of books aimed at renewing the reading habits of our keyboarding youngsters by capitalizing on their interest in and fascination with computer technology.
Deletion of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-associated protein 9 leads to cardiac malformation and embryonic lethality.

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor-associated protein 9, ARA9 (also known as XAP2 or AIP1), is a chaperone that is found in complexes with certain xenobiotic receptors, such as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). In an effort to better understand the physiological role of ARA9 outside of its role in xenobiotic signal transduction, we generated a null allele at the Ara9 locus in mice. Mice with a homozygous deletion of this gene die at various time points throughout embryonic development. Embryonic lethality is accompanied by decreased blood flow to head and limbs, as well as a range of heart deformations, including double outlet right ventricle, ventricular-septal defects, and pericardial edema. The early cardiovascular defects observed in Ara9-null mice suggest an essential role for the ARA9 protein in cardiac development. The observation that the developmental aberrations in Ara9-null mice are distinct from those observed for disrupted alleles at Ahr or Pparα indicates that the role of ARA9 in cardiac development is independent of its interactions with its known xenobiotic receptor partners.
A rare case of osteomyelitis of the sternum in an adult with sickle cell disease.

Osteomyelitis is an uncommon, but well described complication of bone infarctions in adults with sickle cell anemia [1-4]. The tibia and other long bones are most commonly involved [[1]]. Painful e...
Treatment of Severe Hypertension with Minoxidil: Advantages and Limitations

Minoxidil, a new peripheral vasodilator, was used in the therapy of 26 hypertensives who were previously uncontrolled on conventional medications or who had dose-limiting side effects. Minoxidil provided (1) therapeutic advantages in all patients, regardless of the etiology of their hypertension, (2) no symptoms of orthostatic hypotension or sympathetic nervous system depression, (3) a simplification of medical regimens and perhaps costs, and (4) regression of impotence in four out of seven patients. The major limiting factors encountered were (1) fluid retention with the development of congestive heart failure in three patients, (2) pericardial effusion in three patients, and (3) hypertrichosis, which reduced its acceptability in female patients.
Integral representations for polynomial projections and their kernels

In this paper, we discuss the conditions on polynomial projections that allow special integral representations for their kernels. These representations are based on a new biorthonormality criterion. As an application, we obtain new integral representations for the Legendre and Gegenbauer kernels.
Twenty years of systems engineering on the Cassini-Huygens Mission

Over the past twenty years, the Cassini-Huygens Mission has successfully utilized systems engineering to develop and execute a challenging prime mission and two mission extensions. Systems engineering was not only essential in designing the mission, but as knowledge of the system was gained during cruise and science operations, it was critical in evolving operational strategies and processes. This paper discusses systems engineering successes, challenges, and lessons learned on the Cassini-Huygens Mission gathered from a thorough study of mission plans and developed scenarios, and interviews with key project leaders across its twenty-year history.
Human brainstem catecholamine neuronal anatomy as indicated by immunocytochemistry with antibodies to tyrosine hydroxylase

Immunocytochemistry based on antibodies to tyrosine hydroxylase is used to identify catecholaminergic neurons in the human brain stem. An atlas is provided and the distribution of structures compared with that in other animals and with biochemical and catecholamine fluorescent data from humans. Broad agreement of results increases the confidence with which tyrosine hydroxylase-like immunoreactivity can be used to trace catecholaminergic pathways in human postmortem material. As compared to most studies of other animals there are striking increases in populations of upper pontine and mesencephalic catecholaminergic neurons in the human. Distinct cytoarchitectonic features, consistent differences in tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive staining intensity and regional variations in substance P innervation indicate complexity within the substantia nigra. Human catecholaminergic neurons are prominent in the midline of the ventral tegmentum and the upper parts of the central tegmental tracts. A bundle of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive axons runs between the latter regions and a cluster of smaller catecholaminergic neurons which lie in the oblique band of axons joining ventrolateral and dorsomedial medullary catecholaminergic groups. There are more catecholaminergic neurons within and closely related to the superior cerebellar peduncles than have been described in other species. Anatomically, the central compact nucleus of the locus coeruleus appears to be related to several nearby catecholaminergic cell groups. The data provided are being used as a basis for neuropathologic studies of human neurological diseases.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration of gastrointestinal submucosal masses

Endoscopic ultrasound is a useful imaging modality for evaluation of submucosal masses in the gastrointestinal tract. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration using dedicated curvilinear array echoendoscopes with Doppler capability and special needle devices with echogenic needle tips has emerged as a safe and accurate method for obtaining cytological samples from these lesions. However, adequacy of samples obtained and diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration for submucosal masses (especially stromal cell tumors) may not be comparable with other lesions for which endosonographic fine-needle aspiration is commonly indicated. Improvements in technology are still required.
Functional adaptations of the digestive system of the carnivorous mollusc Pleurobranchaea californica MacFarland, 1966.

The opisthobranch mollusc Pleurobranchaea californica feeds on whole organisms and the functional morphology of the digestive system reflects this behavior. By a rhythmic behavior involving well-developed extrinsic buccal muscles and hemocoelic fluid, the buccal mass is protracted to the tip of the everted oral tube. Here a series of repeated protractions and retractions of the intrinsic buccal muscles associated with the flat radular ribbon and jaws draws the prey into the buccal cavity and conveys it to the dorsal esophagus, where by peristaltic action it is passed to the expansible crop for storage. Prey entering the buccal cavity is mixed with acid from a large single gland and secretion from the paired salivary glands. Prey is retained in the crop over long periods of time while it is slowly broken down and passed via the stomach into the digestive glands. Special modifications that allow flexibility of the digestive organs include elongated salivary gland ducts with propulsive bulbs, long flexible nerve cords connecting the ganglia, a long, large muscular duct for storage of the acid secretion, large jaws for muscle attachment and grasping the prey, and a broad radular ribbon with many teeth that acts as a conveyor belt to move food. Additional modifications for handling whole prey include a buccal membrane that aids in maintaining hemocoelic fluid pressure, the extensive acid gland for immobilization of prey, and the expansible crop for storage of food.
Phenotypic assortative mating and genetic population structure in the crab Trapezia digitalis

Colonies of Pocillopora spp. containing the crab Trapezia digitalis were collected from Hawaii in summer of 1979 and of 1980. Individuals of T. digitalis in Hawaii vary extensively in coloration of the carapace: crabs were separated into phenotypic classes by their degree of carapace reticulation. When presented with two females of different phenotype, males preferentially paired with the female which was similar to them in reticulation. The genetic population structure of T. digitalis was unusual by comparison with other species of Trapezia. Previously reported homozygote excesses at esterase-4, hexokinase-1, phosphoglucoseisomerase, and general protein-2 cannot be explained by the single-locus Wahlund effect, since there was not significant genetic differentiation among phenotypic classes, as measured by Wright's FST statistic. There was significant variation among classes in allele frequencies at a fifth locus, hexokinase-2. Two pairs of loci were in significant gametic disequilibrium. Gametic disequilibrium was not detected in seven other species of Trapezia. It is suggested that multi-locus genetic analysis and an increased geographic sampling range are needed to determine the genetic population structure of T. digitalis in relation to observed variation in coloration.
Study of a remote probing technique for inhomogeneous media

Most available methods for remote probing of inhomogeneous media make use of the knowledge of the reflection coefficient of the medium as a function of the frequency of the probing plane wave. In this letter, the inversion problem is examined via an alternative approach in which the incident angle of the plane wave is varied instead of the frequency. An analytical method is developed for processing these reflection coefficient data. A critical evaluation of the numerical aspects of the method is included.
Second-Generation 1,550-nm Fractional Photothermolysis for the Treatment of Acne Scars

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Acne scars affect the entire population, causing significant distress and concern. Previous treatments for acne scars have yielded varying degrees of success and associated side effects. Fractional photothermolysis has been shown to improve scars, including surgical scars, hypopigmented scars, and atrophic acne scars. The newest system has the option of increased fluences for greater depth of penetration and variable treatment coverage. Our aim was to determine the efficacy and safety of the second-generation erbium-doped 1,550-nm fractional photothermolysis laser (1,550nm Fraxel SR laser, Reliant Technologies Inc.) in the treatment of all types of acne scars and of all severities. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-nine patients (20 females and 9 males, ages 15–65 years), Fitzpatrick Skin Types I to V, were treated with two to six treatments with the second-generation erbium-doped 1,550-nm fractional photothermolysis laser at 1-month intervals. Fluences ranged from 35 to 40mJ/microthermal zone. Treatment levels varied from 7 to 10 and ‘‘Advanced Level 1,’’ corresponding to treatment coverage of 20% to 35%. Patients were graded on a 4-point scale by three independent physicians using digital photography. RESULTS The majority of patients achieved a 50% to 75% improvement in facial and back acne scarring (18 of 29 patients). Five patients had an improvement of greater than 75% in acne scarring, 5 patients had a 25% to 50% improvement in acne scarring, and 1 patient had less than a 25% response to treatment. The patients’ degree of satisfaction paralleled the physicians’ assessment. Side effects were minimal and no posttreatment pigmentary changes were noted. CONCLUSION Fractional photothermolysis is a safe and efficacious treatment modality for the treatment of all types of acne scars of all severities. No adverse effects were noted, including in patients with Fitzpatrick Skin Types III to V. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.
Telephone: The Old Technology that is Never Old

Telephone technology is a technology that stands the test of time. Since it was invented in 1876 by Alexander Graham Belle, it remains the technology of all time. This article reports the major finding of a recent research, how technology transforms citizen journalism business in Nigeria. According to the research, Telephone technology has over the years emerged the major tool with which ordinary citizens in Nigeria without journalism and media background or affiliation participate in the process of news gathering, reporting and distribution. Guided by the recent use of telephone around the world by ordinary citizens to report themselves during protests through different social media outlets-Facebook, Tweeter, Youtube, the article illuminates the evergreen nature of the telephone. The article therefore concluded that the telephone technology invented in 1876 has survived the test of time. Instead of being obsolete, it blends with emerging communications technology to improve on its performance.
Gold–sulphide versus sulphide centres on (111) AgBr surfaces: characterization and mechanism

AbstractOctahedral core–shell AgBr emulsions sensitized by sulphur-plus-gold with gold added at 40°C either before or after sulphur sensitization were prepared and studied. The core emulsion was sensitized with a low level of dimethylamineborane (DMAB), and it enhanced the intrinsic sensitivity and long-wavelength sensitivity of the emulsion with an unsensitized shell. Oversensitization was observed for a high gold level in sulphur-plus-gold sensitization for both types of gold addition. The electronic effect of gold is small in these emulsions. Sulphur-plus-gold sensitization increases the long-wavelength sensitivity over sulphur-only sensitization, but generally more so for gold added before sulphur sensitization. To explain the enhancement of the long-wavelength sensitivity of the sulphur-plus-gold sensitization over sulphur sensitization, it is proposed that the energy level of the trapped electron in silver–gold–sulphide centres is slightly higher than in silver–sulphide centres. The dependence of lo...
Gaseous etching of 6H–SiC at relatively low temperatures

A comparison was made of on- and o!-axis 6H}SiC substrate surfaces etched in H 2 , atomic hydrogen, C 2 H 4 /H 2 , and HCl/H 2 at the relatively low-temperature range of 1400}15003C. Well-de"ned terraces with three-bilayer height steps were obtained on the on-axis 6H}SiC substrates etched as low as 14503C, with reproducibility dependent on the history or cleanliness of the reactor. The e!ects of adding HCl depended on its concentration and temperature; i.e. at low temperature and high HCl concentration, the surface had a hillock pattern, while well-de"ned steps formed at the reverse conditions. The etch rate with atomic hydrogen was high even at a low temperature (12003C), and it produced a surface pattern with hillock depressions. The surface after etching depended on the original substrate surface condition; polishing damage caused by high applied load always resulted in a worse surface after etching. O!-axis substrates were smoother, while the original o!-cut step pattern was not changed after etching in H 2 . ( 2000 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Decreased Corneal Sensation as an Initial Feature of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Background: Herpes simplex keratitis is the most common misdiagnosis in patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis, which is increasing in frequency and is associated with daily wear soft contact lenses. Both entities usually present as unilateral keratitis. The manifestations of superficial Acanthamoeba keratitis (i.e., unilaterality, dendriform appearance, positive response to antivirals, and decreased corneal sensation) increase the opportunity for misdiagnosis as herpes simplex keratitis. The authors have encountered six patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis in whom the correct diagnosis was delayed from 2 weeks to 3 months. Methods: All six patients underwent testing with the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer and extensive pharmacologic treatment for herpes simplex keratitis. Corneal scrapings were taken between 2 and 6 weeks after the initial examination. Results: In all six patients, corneal sensation was decreased significantly. Drug therapy was ineffective. Cultures were positive for Acanthamoeba. Five of six patients underwent penetrating keratoplasty. Conclusions: Decreased corneal sensation has contributed to the misdiagnosis of Acanthamoeba as herpes simplex keratitis. Misdiagnosis results in delayed treatment and worse outcome. The authors found that significantly decreased corneal sensation is a frequent finding in early Acanthamoeba keratitis. Therefore, physicians should consider Acanthamoeba keratitis as an alternative diagnosis in patients with presumed herpes simplex keratitis with decreased corneal sensation.
Autocheck program, program to check validity of printed circuit cards and circuit usage

The Autocheck program is used to validate the routing of etched wiring on PC cards for the present generation of computer systems under development. Additionally, it validates the manual assignments of logic gates to integrated circuits, the pin assignments on these integrated circuits, and performs some additional non-logic checks. The position of this program in the chain beginning with the Master Data Bank (the complete set of logic equations for a computer system which is used for gate level logical simulation) and ending with the individual PC card test routines is discussed. The Autotape program (which drives the automatic drafting machine) is discussed, particularly as to the checks it makes, and its place in the automatic validation chain.
Chemistry of condensed thiophenes. III. Acetylation of triphenyleno [1,12‐bcd]thiophene

Friedel-Crafts reaction of triphenyleno[1,12-bcd]thiophene (2) by means of aluminum chloride, nitrobenzene, and a limited excess of acetyl chloride yielded 3-acetyl-2 (78%) and 3,5-diacetyl-2 (7%). Use of a large excess of acetyl chloride gave yields of 42% and 22%, respectively. Wolff-Kishner reduction of the acetyl compounds produced 3-ethyl-2 (15%) and 3,5-diethyl-2 (8%). Structures were assigned largely on the basis of 1H nmr and ultraviolet absorption spectra of the products.
Diffusion tensor imaging in the spotlight on concussion.

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), including concussion, associated with contact sports and activities of daily living is increasingly recognized as a cause for disruption of cognitive functioning involving attention, executive functions, and memory. Emerging evidence indicates that traumatic axonal injury may be associated with long-term cognitive and neuropsychological disability in severe brain injury, as well as the common transient signs and symptoms linked to mTBI. Because traditional neuroimaging sequences are insensitive to the subtle white matter changes that may underlie axonopathy in mTBI, magnetic resonance (MR) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been used for detection of fiber tract disruption and tracking white
Testing electrostatic complementarity in enzyme catalysis: hydrogen bonding in the ketosteroid isomerase oxyanion hole.

A longstanding proposal in enzymology is that enzymes are electrostatically and geometrically complementary to the transition states of the reactions they catalyze and that this complementarity contributes to catalysis. Experimental evaluation of this contribution, however, has been difficult. We have systematically dissected the potential contribution to catalysis from electrostatic complementarity in ketosteroid isomerase. Phenolates, analogs of the transition state and reaction intermediate, bind and accept two hydrogen bonds in an active site oxyanion hole. The binding of substituted phenolates of constant molecular shape but increasing p K a models the charge accumulation in the oxyanion hole during the enzymatic reaction. As charge localization increases, the NMR chemical shifts of protons involved in oxyanion hole hydrogen bonds increase by 0.50–0.76 ppm/p K a unit, suggesting a bond shortening of ˜0.02 A/p K a unit. Nevertheless, there is little change in binding affinity across a series of substituted phenolates (ΔΔG = −0.2 kcal/mol/p K a unit). The small effect of increased charge localization on affinity occurs despite the shortening of the hydrogen bonds and a large favorable change in binding enthalpy (ΔΔH = −2.0 kcal/mol/p K a unit). This shallow dependence of binding affinity suggests that electrostatic complementarity in the oxyanion hole makes at most a modest contribution to catalysis of ˜300-fold. We propose that geometrical complementarity between the oxyanion hole hydrogen-bond donors and the transition state oxyanion provides a significant catalytic contribution, and suggest that KSI, like other enzymes, achieves its catalytic prowess through a combination of modest contributions from several mechanisms rather than from a single dominant contribution.
Promoting the full inclusion of emotionally disturbed students through "no fault" interactions between parents and professionals.

Szrnitnary.-The essential locus and topics covered in "no fault" parental training which promotes the full inclusion of emotionally disturbed children in regular school settings are presented. The full inclusion of emotionally disturbed students in d regular school activities requires extensive parental involvement. Such involvement must go beyond initial Individual Education Plan meetings or subsequent contacts which only focus upon specific misbehaviors. Rather, effective involvements encompass a number of group and individual interactions des~gned to include parents as partners in all therapeutic interventions pursued with their children (Idol, 1993; Kelly, 1992, 1993; Wagonseller, 1989). While a number of viewpoints support parental involvement, a holistic perspective on students' emotional problems appears ideal for the development of a meaningful, "no fault" partnership between school staff and parents (Kelly, 1992, 1995). From a holistic standpoint, a student's emotional problems are self-defined. Such problems reflect one's subjective perceptions of self as disturbed and devalued, often expressed by self-destructive actions. While parents can significantly affect these perceptions, they do not directly cause them under even the worst of circumstances. Severe conduct and emotional problems can occur in spite of the most positive parental efforts. For these reasons a "no fault" perspective is recommended, one which rejects any approach which blames parents for past problems, or worse, psychologically damages them by treating them more as patients than as partners in subsequent therapeutic interactions. Rather, professionals should pursue positive, nonjudgmental interactions with parents. Such interactions focus upon the cooperative resolution of the student's current and most serious emotional problems, with special emphasis given to the therapeutic benefits of positive parental actions. Parental therapeutic interventions are pursued to ameliorate the student's perceived feehgs of disturbance and self-devaluation. Such interven
Helical twisting on an adiabatically expanding jet. I Propagation and temporal growth

The local linearized dispersion relation for perturbations to the surface of a constantly adiabatic jet, which is assumed to be in static pressure balance with an isothermal confining medium, is derived in an investigation of the effect of adiabatic expansion on the propagation and temporal growth of helical twisting in a supersonic jet. Cooling of the jet material along such a flow increases Mach number and relative density relative to the confining medium, as distance from the origin increases; this leads to a rather rapid decrease in the maximum rate of growth and an increase in the maximally unstable wavelength, relative to the jet's radius, as the distance along such a jet increases. Attention is given to the consequences of assuming that a change in the phase velocity of a propagating helical wave along a jet causes the wavelength of a helical wave to change.
Patterns of Consultation and Treatment of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Presenting to a Large Academic Medical Center in the US

Background Management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) often involves many subspecialist providers, as well as a broad range of treatment options. This study sought to evaluate referral and treatment patterns among patients with HCC at a large academic medical center.
Shift of the acetylenic hydrogen during chemical and enzymatic oxidation of the biphenylacetylene triple bond.

Abstract Oxidation of 1-[13C]biphenylacetylene by either meta-chloroperbenzoic acid or by liver microsomes from phenobarbital-pretreated rats yields (after esterification) methyl 2-biphenylacetate in which the biphenyl group is still attached to the labeled carbon. This demonstrates that it is the terminal hydrogen and not the biphenyl group which is involved in the 1,2-shift previously shown to accompany this oxidative transformation. The implications of a 1,2-hydrogen shift for acetylene group metabolism in other substrates are discussed.