cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Digital optical computing with optically switched directional couplers

Optically switchable directional couplers can function as logically complete building blocks for constructing all-optical computational engines. Logically, such devices operate as all-optical five-terminal gates, where the two output signals are logical functions of two throughgoing input signals and a control input signal. Such an optically controlled exchange element is a promising functional unit for constructing general-purpose digital optical logic circuits. The implementation of such all-optical five-terminal gates using Ti:LiNbO3 electro-optic directional couplers is described. These optical logic gates utilize mature technology developed for the telecommunications industry, facilitating construction of robust optical logic hardware. Single-mode optical fiber is used for all logical interconnections. Effectively dc-coupled control circuitry converts optical pulses into electrical pulses capable of switching the transfer state of low-voltage lumped electrode directional couplers. The use of such Ti:LiNbO3 five-terminal optical logical gates in the construction of various simple circuits such as oscillators and divide-by-N circuits is shown. Such circuits demonstrate many of the issues arising in the construction of all- optical digital computing systems, and are fundamental subsections of an all-optical bit serial computer design currently under construction.
Pediatric nurses' thinking in response to vignettes on administering analgesics

Pediatric nurses are not administering available and recommended analgesics to hospitalized children after surgery. This descriptive study was conducted to examine 30 pediatric nurses' thinking-in response to case study vignettes-about pain assessment and morphine administration for children experiencing postoperative pain. Nurses considered numerous factors when assessing and managing children's pain, including pain level, vital signs, and facial expression. Nurses frequently relied, however, on behavioral and physiological manifestations, as opposed to self-report, when choosing whether to administer morphine. Nurses demonstrated misconceptions about pharmacokinetics and unwarranted concerns about the adverse effects of morphine. These findings partly explain why children continue to report high levels of pain after surgery and why nurses may not administer adequate analgesics to relieve children's pain.
Neurotensin stimulation of mast cell secretion is receptor-mediated, pertussis-toxin sensitive and requires activation of phospholipase C.

Abstract Pretreatment of isolated rat serosal mast cells with U-73122, an aminosteroid inhibitor of phospholipase C, inhibited histamine secretion in response to neurotensin (NT). This inhibition reached a maximum after 1 h of pretreatment at 37°C and was dependent upon the concentration of U-73122 (IC 50 ∼0.2 μM). The inactive analog, U-73343, had no effect on the secretory response to NT. Pretreatment of mast cells with U-73122 also blocked histamine secretion in response to substance P (SP), mastoparan (MP), compound 48/80, or amidated NT (NT-NH 2 ). Stimulation of mast cells by NT was accompanied by a rise in the level of intracellular free calcium and a rapid (within seconds) increase in the level of inositol trisphosphate (IP 3 ) which was inhibited by pretreatment of the cells with U-73122. Pretreatment of isolated mast cells with pertussis toxin (PTx) blocked histamine release in response to NT as well as to all peptides tested. PTx had no effect on histamine secretion elicited by anti-IgE stimulation of sensitized mast cells. Pretreatment of mast cells with SR 48692, a NT-receptor antagonist, had no effect on histamine release induced by MP. At a high concentration (100 nM) SR 48692 partially inhibited the response to NT-NH 2 . These results, together with our earlier findings with SR 48692, indicate that the signal transduction pathway in mast cells activated by NT requires a specific NT-receptor, the activation of phospholipase C, and the involvement of a PTx sensitive G protein. The peptides SP and MP, and compound 48/80, while also requiring the activation of PLC and a PTx sensitive G protein, are not inhibited by the NT-R antagonist, SR 48692, suggesting that they exert their actions either via a different mast cell receptor or via a receptor-independent mechanism.
The dynamical motion of atoms at the Ni(111) surface

Abstract One atom phonon spectral densities are presented for the vibrations of atoms at the Ni(111) surface both parallel and perpendicular to the surface. They are also presented for perpendicular motion of an adsorbed oxygen atom and the nickel atom immediately below it. The results are obtained using a continued fraction technique. They are compared with recent EELS data obtained by Ibach and Bruchmann.
Watt-class, nanosecond-pulse semiconductor laser with integrated driver

We report short (5 ns), high-power (>1 W), spectrally narrow optical pulses generated by a 1060-nm slab-coupled optical waveguide laser (SCOWL) soldered directly to a custom BiCMOS driver chip.
A Pilot Study of Engineering Design-Decision Methods in Practice

Numerous engineering design-decision methods have been developed to assist groups of engineers in making choices within a design problem. However, while there are a variety of methods to choose from, there is no empirical data that exhibits which decision-method is best for specific phases of the design process, or that designers are willing to adopt particular decision methods. Due to this lack of empirical data, industry may not use certain engineering design methods since they do not have the resources or time to investigate which method would work best for them. This work presents the development of a framework to examine various engineering design-decision methods in practice. The framework is used in a pilot study with undergraduate engineering students which compares usage of Pugh’s Controlled Convergence (PuCC) and the Group Hypothetical Equivalent and Inequivalent Method (G-HEIM) to the results of an “informal” method (a group decision that is made without a formalized decision method). Results of the pilot study include documenting the emergence of decision “traps” within each group, assessing student perceptions about using formalized design-decision methods through interviews and surveys (critical to understanding potential barriers to adoption of formal methods), and insight into where formal decision methods are most appropriate within a design process. Finally, a number of changes and additions to the framework and study protocol are identified for future work focused on repeating the study with more participants and potentially in industrial settings.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Women’s reproductive rights and social equality in developing countries

Abstract The paper presents a cross-national analysis of the relationship between levels of reproductive rights and social equality in developing countries. One hundred and one developing countries identified by the World Bank are used. We find that high levels of social equality are associated with high levels of marital rights. However, the relationship between levels of social equality and legal abortion right is weak and insignificant. The interrelations among women’s reproductive rights, social equality, and religious forces are analyzed.
Loss of D2 receptors during aging is partially due to decreased levels of mRNA.

Corpora striata old rats (24–25 months) contain only about half as much mRNA for D2 dopamine receptors as those of young (6 months) counterparts. This reduction can be observed by in situ hybridization of brain slices as well as with Northern and dot blot analyses of striatal extracts. Decreased levels of D2 receptor mRNA as described in this study are consistent with reductions in receptor containing neurons (20%) and receptor biosynthesis (40%), as previously observed in this and other laboratories. Thus, age related changes in D2 receptor gene expression appear to be partially responsible for loss of these receptors.
Diapirism in the earth's mantle: Experiments on the motion of a hot sphere in a fluid with temperature-dependent viscosity

Abstract The ascent of magma diapirs through the earth's mantle is modelled experimentally by the motion of a hot metal sphere through a fluid whose viscosity varies strongly with temperature. The dimensionless drag on the sphere (drag number D) and the heat transfer from it (Nusselt number Nu) are found as functions of the dimensionless velocity of the sphere (Peclet number Pe) and the viscosity contrast μ∞/μ0 = 10γ, where μ∞ and μ0 are the viscosities of the fluid far from the sphere and at its surface. The drag D = D(Pe, γ) has two limits. For large Pe and small γ (“Stokes” limit), the drag approaches the Stokes' Law result. For small Pe and large γ (“lubrication” limit), the drag is orders of magnitude less than that predicted by Stokes' Law. Nu is a function of Pe alone. For reasonable values of the diapir radius and the viscosity contrast, the dimensionless scale height Pe/3 Nu may exceed a critical value, resulting in progressive melting during ascent. This suggests that diapirs may ascend great distances through the mantle while remaining largely molten. Lamont-Doherty Geological Observatory Contribution No. 3414.
"Bundling" HIV prevention: integrating services to promote synergistic gain.

Abstract Background. Bundling is defined as the aggregation of services to increase effectiveness (i.e., creating synergy of effort). The purpose of this commentary is to review the utilization and potential benefits of bundling in its application to HIV prevention. Methods. Review of the literature to provide a broad perspective on the concept of bundling and specific examples of bundling in HIV prevention. Benefits, challenges and directions are considered. Results. To be effective, bundling must offer strategic advantage: greater value, less cost. It provides an opportunity to target multiple risk behaviors simultaneously for synergistic gain. Technological advances including rapid HIV tests permit noninvasive sampling in clinical and non-clinical settings. Bundling of HIV prevention provides an opportunity to reach high-risk persons who are asymptomatic and/or may not otherwise seek care by eliminating barriers to prevention. Conclusions. We must implement programs that work and consider innovative approaches to stem the AIDS epidemic; bundling provides one such opportunity to create an efficient paradigm targeting multiple risk behaviors simultaneously.
Troubles with tuberculosis prevention.

The prevention of tuberculosis requires multiple tools. Since persons with active disease are the primary mechanism for transmission, treatment of this population is probably the most critical intervention. However, dealing with the very large number of persons with latent tuberculosis, a huge reservoir of potential reactivation, is more problematic. The primary method for preventing disease in this population has been treatment with isoniazid, which is often referred to as secondary prophylaxis. Preventing the development of active tuberculosis with isoniazid monotherapy may work by blocking the reactivation of latent tuberculosis, by treating early infection with a low bacillus burden, or by . . .
Clinical Performance of Amalgam as Predicted by Physical Property Tests

For a number of years, dentistry has relied upon laboratory data to select and to certify the materials to be used in restorations. The data obtained from laboratory studies are used as criteria for clinical performance and also for sales promotion.
In Vivo Microscopy Reveals Extensive Embedding of Capillaries within the Sarcolemma of Skeletal Muscle Fibers

Objective To provide insight into mitochondrial function in vivo, we evaluated the 3D spatial relationship between capillaries, mitochondria, and muscle fibers in live mice. Methods 3D volumes of in vivo murine TA muscles were imaged by MPM. Muscle fiber type, mitochondrial distribution, number of capillaries, and capillary-to-fiber contact were assessed. The role of Mb-facilitated diffusion was examined in Mb KO mice. Distribution of GLUT4 was also evaluated in the context of the capillary and mitochondrial network. Results MPM revealed that 43.6 ± 3.3% of oxidative fiber capillaries had ≥50% of their circumference embedded in a groove in the sarcolemma, in vivo. Embedded capillaries were tightly associated with dense mitochondrial populations lateral to capillary grooves and nearly absent below the groove. Mitochondrial distribution, number of embedded capillaries, and capillary-to-fiber contact were proportional to fiber oxidative capacity and unaffected by Mb KO. GLUT4 did not preferentially localize to embedded capillaries. Conclusions Embedding capillaries in the sarcolemma may provide a regulatory mechanism to optimize delivery of oxygen to heterogeneous groups of muscle fibers. We hypothesize that mitochondria locate to PV regions due to myofibril voids created by embedded capillaries, not to enhance the delivery of oxygen to the mitochondria.
The Appearance of Ecological Systems as a Matter of Policy

Environmental policy should explicitly address the appearance of the landscape because people make inferences about ecological quality from the look of the land. Where appearances are misleading, failing to portray ecological degradation or ecological health, public opinion may be ill-informed, with consequences for environmental policy. This paper argues that while ecology is a scientific concept, landscape perception is a social process. If we do not recognize this difference, we have problems with the appearance of ecological systems. Three influential problems are discussed: 1) the problem of the false identity of ecological systems, 2) the problem of design and planning as deceit about ecological systems, and 3) the problem of invisible ecological systems. These problems for environmental policy may be resolved in part if landscape planners and policy-makers use socially-recognized signs to display human intentions for ecological systems. Specifically, planning and policy can include socially-recognized signs of beauty and stewardship to display human care for ecological systems. An example in United States federal agricultural policy is described.
Postoperative glycemic control after central pancreatectomy for mid-gland lesions

Patients undergoing partial pancreatectomy are at risk for developing surgically induced diabetes. Patients with lesions in the neck and body of the pancreas are at increased risk because traditional resectional approaches (pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy) must be extended to remove the tumor with adequate margins. Increasingly, we have been performing pancreatic parenchyma-sparing resections (central pancreatectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy) in an effort to reduce the risk of postpancreatectomy endocrine insufficiency. The operative records of patients who underwent pancreatectomy at our institution from 1999 to 2005 were reviewed. We identified 26 patients who underwent central pancreatectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy reconstruction for cystic lesions (n = 23), neuroendocrine tumors (n = 2), and Frantz’s tumor (n = 1). Charts were reviewed for patient demographics, volume of resection, complications, and evaluation of postoperative glycemic control. The mean follow-up was 33 months (range 3–72 months). The average volume of pancreas resected was 49.6 ± 38.6 cm3, and the mean diameter of the lesions was 2.6 ± 1.5 cm. Nine complications occurred in eight patients (overall morbidity 31%), and the average length of stay was 6.9 ± 2.7 days. Pancreatic leaks (n = 2; 7.7%) were successfully managed nonoperatively. There was no operative mortality, and there has been no tumor recurrence. None of the patients were diabetic preoperatively. Postoperatively, two (7.7%) developed endocrine insufficiency with a mean postoperative hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) value of 7.65%. Neither patient has required exogenous insulin. HbA1c in the remaining patients was 5.9% ± 0.5%. Pancreatic parenchyma-sparing surgery for lesions in the midportion of the gland can be performed with acceptable morbidity. Postoperative glycemic control after pancreatic parenchyma-sparing surgery compares favorably with that reported for patients with traditional resections.
A self-renewing division of zebrafish Müller glial cells generates neuronal progenitors that require N-cadherin to regenerate retinal neurons

Muller glia function as retinal stem cells in adult zebrafish. In response to loss of retinal neurons, Muller glia partially dedifferentiate, re-express neuroepithelial markers and re-enter the cell cycle. We show that the immunoglobulin superfamily adhesion molecule Alcama is a novel marker of multipotent retinal stem cells, including injury-induced Muller glia, and that each Muller glial cell divides asymmetrically only once to produce an Alcama-negative, proliferating retinal progenitor. The initial mitotic division of Muller glia involves interkinetic nuclear migration, but mitosis of retinal progenitors occurs in situ. Rapidly dividing retinal progenitors form neurogenic clusters tightly associated with Alcama/N-cadherin-labeled Muller glial radial processes. Genetic suppression of N-cadherin function interferes with basal migration of retinal progenitors and subsequent regeneration of HuC/D+ inner retinal neurons.
A fast adaptive vortex method for patches of constant vorticity in two dimensions

Abstract We present a fast numerical method for solving the incompressible Euler's equation in two dimensions for the special case when the flow field can be represented by patches of constant vorticity. The method is an adaptive vortex method in which cells (vortex blobs) of multiple scales are used to represent the patches so that the number of vortex blobs needed to approximate the patches is proportional to the length of the boundary curve of the patch and inversely proportional to the width of the smallest blob (cell) used. Points along the boundaries of the patches are advected according to the velocity obtained from the approximating vortices.
Genetic manipulation of the renin-angiotensin system in the kidney

Over the past 5 years, genetic manipulation has revolutionized the way we examine physiological processes by providing a targeted specificity that was not possible previously. The application of transgenesis and gene targeting has been applied to numerous physiological pathways, and both will remain important tools as we reach the completion of the human genome project and begin to assess the function of newly identified genes. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been the target of numerous transgenic and gene targeting studies designed to help uncover its role in cardiovascular regulation and organ development Each gene of the system has now been both over-expressed and knocked out. It will be discussed as to how new advances in tissue-specific gene targeting by both over-expression and gene ablation can be used as powerful tools to dissect the role of the RAS in individual tissues.
Autophagy Induction by Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors Inhibits HIV Type 1

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are being evaluated in a "shock-and-kill" therapeutic approach to reverse human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV) latency from CD4(+) T cells. Using this approach, HDACi have induced HIV RNA synthesis in latently infected cells from some patients. The hope is that the increase in viral production will lead to killing of the infected cell either by the virus itself or by the patient's immune system, a "sterilizing cure." Although administered within the context of combination antiretroviral therapy, the infection of bystander cells remains a concern. In this study, we investigated the effect of HDACi (belinostat, givinostat, panobinostat, romidepsin, and vorinostat) on the productive infection of macrophages. We demonstrate that the HDACi tested do not alter the initial susceptibility of macrophages to HIV infection. However, we demonstrate that HDACi decrease HIV release from macrophages in a dose-dependent manner (belinostat < givinostat < vorinostat < panobinostat < romidepsin) via degradation of intracellular HIV through the canonical autophagy pathway. This mechanism involves unc-51-like autophagy-activating kinase 1 (ULK1) and the inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin and requires the formation of autophagosomes and their maturation into autolysosomes in the absence of increased cell death. These data provide further evidence in support of a role for autophagy in the control of HIV infection and suggest that careful consideration of off-target effects will be essential if HDACi are to be a component of a multipronged approach to eliminate latently infected cells.
Sertoli cells in culture are heterogeneous with respect to transferrin release: analysis by reverse hemolytic plaque assay.

Abstract It has been reported that not all Sertoli cells store the same product or respond morphologically to secretagogue stimulation. The following studies were performed to determine whether functional differences among these cells are also present with respect to the secretion of a product. Sertoli cells obtained from 18-to 20-day-old rats were cultured for 3 days and then subjected to reverse hemolytic plaque assays for transferrin (TF). Release of TF could be detected from only 62.7 ± 0.47% (mean ± SE; n = 4 experiments) of all cells in culture. Results obtained from immunocytochemical staining of different batches of cells from the same dispersions agreed quite closely with these plaque assay values, indicating that not all Sertoli cells in culture contain or secrete TF. Differences in the basal rate of TF release were observed among these secretors, as evidenced by a gradual appearance of plaques over an 8-h period. Addition of FSH, cAMP, or isoproterenol to the assay incubation mixture resulted i...
Prenatal stress and nutrition effects on metabolic phenotype of offspring.

The intrauterine environment can have profound effects on the development and health of offspring. Alteration in maternal nutritional status and prenatal stress has long-term consequences on offspring development and behavior. However, the mechanisms responsible for these changes are unclear. Pregnant female Sprague-Dawley rats were maintained on standard chow (CHOW) or 60% high-fat (HF) diet throughout gestation and lactation. Half of each group were exposed to a novel variable stress paradigm (STRESS) during the third week of gestation while control dams were left undisturbed (CON). One male pup was randomly selected from each litter for each postnatal test. Insulin content of milk was increased in dams on HF diet and this effect was enhanced by STRESS. Pups from dams’ that experienced prenatal stress and/or were on HF diet weighed more beginning on postnatal day 7 compared to CHOW-CON. HF diet at weaning appeared to enhance this effect through adulthood. Body composition analysis showed that the increased body weight was attributable to greater adiposity. When challenged with an oral glucose tolerance test, males weaned on CHOW diet showed no difference in glucose clearance or insulin secretion. However, males weaned on HF diet had impaired glucose tolerance if their dams were on HF diet, experienced prenatal stress, or both. Our data suggest that the intrauterine and postnatal environment is affected by prenatal stress and/or maternal nutrition in a manner that increases the susceptibility of offspring to diet-induced obesity and may lead to adverse metabolic consequences on HF diet. Support: NIH HD055030, DK077623.
Are behavioral disorder and sleep disruption in complex partial seizures related

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that interictal behavior disorder and sleep disruption in complex partial seizures share a common pathogenesis. Twelve adult male patients with complex partial seizures were studied using polysomnographic and neuropsychological techniques. Sleep abnormalities were shown by impaired sleep efficiency ( 15%, 8 patients), prolonged sleep onset latency (>25 min, 6 patients), and impaired four-nap Multiple Sleep Latency Test ( R 2 p > 0.5). These preliminary data lend support to the common pathogenesis of sleep and behavioral disorder in patients with complex partial seizures.
An Explanation for Anovulation in Immature Alloxan-Diabetic Rats Treated with Pregnant Mare's Serum Gonadotropin: Reduced Pituitary Response to Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone

We have recently reported that immature alloxan- diabetic rats injected with PMS gonadotropin do not ovulate because the preovulatory LH surge is absent. In the present studies, the hypothesis was tested that alloxan-induced diabetes might alter hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) depletion and⁄or pituitary response to GnRH. Immature rats were injected with PMSG at 30 days of age. In one experiment, the rats were killed either before or during the expected proest-rous LH surge (day 32), and the hypothalami were removed and assayed for GnRH content. In other experiments, the effects of GnRH on ovulation and serum and pituitary LH were tested by injecting GnRH early on presumed proestrus (day 32). A significant and similar degree of depletion of hypothalamic GnRH was found in diabetic and control rats after the time of the expected LH surge in nondiabetic rats. Although the degree of pituitary exposure to endogenous GnRH is unknown, these data suggest that the hypothalamic release of GnRH is ...
The effect of confinement in nanoporous polymers on the glass transition temperature

The glass transition temperature (Tg) of nanoporous polyetherimide (PEI) and PEI thin films was investigated. The Tg decreased from its bulk value in both of these confined systems. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to calculate the nearest neighbor pore-to-pore distances in the nanoporous PEI. A quantitative analogy between the nanoporous PEI and PEI thin films is proposed through an equivalence of nearest neighbor pore-to-pore distances and thin film thickness. The effect of confinement is believed to be due to the interface regions, which possess higher chain mobility than the bulk. When these high mobility interface regions are sufficiently close together, the excess mobility at the interface region affects the dynamics of the system by restraining percolation of the slow domains resulting in the observed decrease in Tg.
Temporal and Spatial Parameters of Skeletal Gene Expression: Targeting RUNX Factors and their Coregulatory Proteins to Subnuclear Domains

Key components of the basal transcription machinery and several tissue-specific transcription factor complexes are functionally compartmentalized as specialized subnuclear domains. We have identified a unique 31-38 amino acid targeting signal (NMTS) that directs the Runx (Cbfa/AML) transcription factors to distinct nuclear matrix-(NM) associated sites within the nucleus that support gene expression. Our determination of the NMTS crystal structure, yeast 2 hybrid screens to identify NM interacting proteins, and in situ colocalization studies with Runx interacting factors (YAP, Smad, TLE) suggest that localization of Runx transcription factors at intranuclear sites facilitates the assembly and activity of regulatory complexes that mediate activation and suppression of target genes. Mice homozygous for the deletion of the intranuclear Runx2 targeting signal in a homologous recombination (Runx2 deltaC) do not form bone due to maturational arrest of osteoblasts, demonstrating the importance of fidelity of subnuclear localization for tissue-differentiating activity. These results provide evidence that Runx2 subnuclear targeting and the associated regulatory functions are essential for a spatiotemporal placement that facilitates activation of Runx-dependent genes involved in tissue differentiation during embryonic development.
Histocytochemical Pattern of Enzyme Distribution in Cochlea of the Kangaroo Rat (D. Spectabilis) at Rest and Following Auditory Stimulation

The histocytochemical distribution of enzymes in the cochlea of the kangaroo rat, Dipodomys spectabilis, at rest and following auditory stimulation was investigated. At rest, enzyme distribution in D. Apectabilis resembles that previously reported by Webster & Stack (1966, 1968) in D. merriami. Krebs cycle enzymes are prominent in the sensory epithelium, stria vascularis, spiral ligament, and external spiral sulcus. The spatial pattern of general esterase activity is also similar. No increase or decrease of either succinic dehydrogenase or carboxylic esterase activity, as measured by a microscopically visible quantitative change in deposition product, is observed following acoustic stimulation. Injury to the basal and second turns, however, is seen in a few cochleae. The validity of using histochemical methods for the demonstration of fluctuation in enzyme activity is discussed.
Fluphenazine-induced parkinsonism in the baboon: pharmacological and metabolic studies.

Abstract Extrapyramidal signs were produced in baboons following the oral administration of 1.5–5 mg/kg per day of fluphenazine dihydrochloride. The drug-induced extrapyramidal signs included tremors at rest or in motion, motor retardation, masque facies, rigidity, and salivation. Administration of the anti-parkinson agents benztropine mesylate or trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride was ineffective in reversing the extrapyramidal signs when these agents were given together with fluphenazine. 7-Hydroxyfluphenazine, a metabolite of fluphenazine in the baboon, was at least 500 times less active than fluphenazine in producing depression and did not produce extrapyramidal signs. Metabolic studies with nuphenazine- 14 C in the baboon indicated that the biological disposition of the drug resembles that seen previously in the rhesus monkey. The plasma half-life for the elimination of fluphenazine- 14 C, its metabolites, or both, agrees roughly with the length of time required for extrapyramidal signs to disappear after withdrawal of the drug.
Radiation from a spherical antenna covered by a layer of lossy hot plasma. Theory and experiment

A spherical antenna is covered by a finite layer of lossy hot plasma. The radiation of this antenna is quite different from that of the same antenna imbedded in an infinite plasma. The antenna radiation can be recovered or enhanced when the plasma frequency is increased beyond the antenna frequency. An electro-acoustic wave may be excited in the plasma layer and leads to some resonance. The electroacoustic resonances may lead to a very strong antenna radiation. A good agreement was obtained between theory and experiment.
Heart failure is associated with reduced patency after endovascular intervention for symptomatic peripheral arterial disease

Objective Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a highly prevalent comorbidity among patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease. The effect of CHF on the procedural success of endovascular treatment, however, remains unknown. Theoretically, poor inflow secondary to systolic dysfunction and peripheral vascular alterations may predispose endovascular interventions to failure. Methods A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed to identify CHF patients undergoing endovascular peripheral arterial intervention from 2004 to 2009. Demographics, comorbidities, procedural details, and outcomes were analyzed. Patients underwent duplex ultrasound imaging and clinical follow-up at scheduled intervals. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate risk factors for loss of primary patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage. Results Of 1220 patients undergoing intervention, 271 (22%) with documented congestive heart failure (CHF) underwent an intervention for claudication (22.5%) or critical limb ischemia (77.5%). Primary patency at 1 year was 51.9% ± 2.5% among those with CHF vs 64.6% ± 1.3% in those without CHF (P 40% (n = 147) vs 43.2% ± 3.5% if the EF was 40% (P Conclusions CHF is associated with reduced patency after peripheral endovascular intervention and is an independent risk factor for patency loss. Specifically, CHF and reduced EF (
What is the coordinate frame utilized for the generation of express saccades in monkeys

The latencies of saccades to suddenly appearing eccentric targets can have a bimodal distribution, with an early, express peak, and a late, regular peak (Fischer and Boch 1983, Brain Res 260: 21-26). Express saccades usually are a product of learning. The purpose of this study was to determine whether this learning is specific to the relative position of the target in space, the orbital position of the eye, or the vector of the saccade to be produced. Further, it was asked whether and how the frequency with which express saccades are generated is influenced by the immediately preceding saccadic vector and the familiarity of the targets. To this end, rhesus monkeys were trained to make saccadic eye movements to single targets and to two sequential targets that appeared at various positions relative to the head, relative to the initial fixation spot and relative to each other. The results show that the frequency with which express saccades are generated is determined by the saccadic vector that has to be generated and not by the relative position of a target in space, the orbital position of the eye, the immediately preceding saccadic vector, or the familiarity of the targets.
Paradoxical trade patterns and terms of trade

Abstract It is shown that, when a monopoly is present in a two-country, two-commodity world, the terms-of-trade do not necessarily fall in between the pre-trade relative prices of the two countries, and that these pre-trade prices do not unequivocally determine the pattern of trade.
Infinite families of non-embeddable quasi-residual hadamard designs

LetD be a quasi-residual Hadamard design with λ=(2m + 1)2n−1, wherem andn are positive integers. IfD contains a pair of blocks intersecting in m2n+1 points together with a third block intersecting each of the first two blocks in (m + 1)2n points thenD is non-embeddable. Using this result together with a recursive construction for quasi-residual Hadamard designs the existence of a previously unknown infinite family of non-embeddable quasi-residual Hadamard designs with λ=5(2n)−1 is established. An additional infinite family of non-embeddable quasi-residual Hadamard designs is given. This family has λ= 2n−1 with each design in the family having a pair of blocks meeting in (3λ + 3)/4 points and a third block meeting each of the first two blocks in (5λ + 5)/8 points.
Phytophthora cambivora in Oregon and its pathogenicity to Chrysolepis chrysophylla.

Summary A new canker disease causing mortality of golden chinquapin trees [Chrysolepis chrysophylla (Dougl.) Hjelmqvist], in Oregon was recently observed. Most of the symptomatic or dead trees were located near roads. The cankers on the lower boles of trees are similar to those caused by species of Phytophthora on other trees in western North America. The cankers in the inner bark were reddish-orange in colour and extended upward from necrotic roots. Phytophthora cambivora (Petri) Buisman was isolated from the cankers; identity was confirmed by morphological comparison with known isolates and internal transcribed spacer sequence analysis. Pathogenicity was confirmed by inoculation of chinquapin seedlings and mature trees. Seven of nine isolates from chinquapin were A2 mating type; 27 of 28 isolates from other hosts in Oregon and Washington were A1 mating type.
Building and using pluggable type systems

Are you a practitioner who is tired of null pointer exceptions, unintended side effects, SQL injections, concurrency errors, mistaken equality tests, and other run-time errors that appear during testing or in the field? A pluggable type system can guarantee the absence of these errors, and many more.Are you a researcher who wants to be able to quickly and easily implement a type system, giving you the ability to evaluate it in practice and to field it? You need a framework that supports these essential activities.This demo is aimed at both audiences. It describes both the theory of pluggable types and also the practice of implementing them. A simple pluggable type-checker can be implemented in 2 minutes, and can be enhanced thereafter. A type checkers is easy to create, easy for programmers to use, and effective in finding real, important bugs.The demo uses the Checker Framework, which enables you to create pluggable type systems for Java, while your code remains backward-compatible with all versions of Java. The ideas translate to other languages and toolsets. The tools are freely available at http://types.cs.washington.edu/checker-framework/.
Automation of the finite element method: a personal historical view

Abstract A summary of the evolution of computational and numerical methods for the static and dynamic analysis of finite element systems will be presented. The majority of the material discussed will reflect the personal experience of the author during the past 35 years. It is the opinion of the author, that at the present time, the finite element method is far from being completely automated for complex structures.
Preoperative cardiac risk assessment for noncardiac surgery

Patients presenting for noncardiac surgery should receive careful preoperative cardiac risk stratification. This has implications not only for the perioperative period, but also for long-term survival. After an initial clinical evaluation, certain patients will be referred for noninvasive testing. Those without significant inducible ischemia at a high workload have a low risk for perioperative cardiac complictions. Patients who are unable to exercise adequately may require alternative forms of testing, of which dipyridamole thallium scintigraphy is the most thoroughly studied and validated option. Patients with either high-risk clinical profiles or significant thallium redistribution merit consideration for preoperative coronary angiography. Treatment options for high-risk patients include: (1) Proceeding with surgery as planned along with aggressive perioperative monitoring and anti-ischemic therapy, (2) coronary angiography with subsequent myocardial revascularization as appropriate before elective surgery, (3) selecting an alternative, lower risk surgical approach, and (4) cancellation of surgery in lieu of a trial of conservative therapy.
The Past, Present, and Future of Embedded Metadata for the Long-Term Maintenance of and Access to Digital Image Files

The authors will provide a background and state of the research on the subject of embedding metadata for the long-term maintenance of and access to digital image files, describe its uses and limitations, and outline recent attempts to standardize embedded metadata schemas and formats in commercial and academic contexts. They will then conclude by describing the challenges currently facing information professionals looking to use embedded metadata effectively, and look forward to what the future of embedded image metadata might hold as registries are released and semantic web applications are further developed.
Foveal hypoplasia in oculocutaneous albinism demonstrated by optical coherence tomography

Abstract PURPOSE: To document, in vivo, the foveal morphology and thickness in a patient with oculocutaneous albinism. METHODS: Observational case report. In a 10-year-old female with oculocutaneous albinism, multiple cross-sectional scans of the fovea were performed using optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: Optical coherence tomography scans were unable to detect the foveal pit. A widespread thickening of the retina occurred throughout the entire fovea with no difference from the surrounding macula. The foveal thickness was greater than 300 μm in the eyes of this patient with oculocutaneous albinism, compared with 150 μm in the normal eye. The inner retina had a highly reflective signal on optical coherence tomography. CONCLUSION: Optical coherence tomography demonstrated in the anatomical location of the fovea a highly reflective inner retinal signal, possibly consistent with multiple layers of ganglion cells, and it confirmed foveal hypoplasia in a patient with oculocutaneous albinism.
UVA-Induced Erythema, Pigmentation, and Skin Surface Temperature Changes Are Irradiance Dependent

Human cutaneous erythemogenic and melanogenic responses to long-wave (UVA) ultraviolet radiation were investigated using irradiances ranging from 5-50 mW/cm2. Skin surface temperature changes resulting from the different irradiances were also compared. In general, threshold doses for erythema and pigmentation were higher when UVA was administered at the lowest irradiance (5 mW/cm2) than at the highest (50 mW/cm2). Erythema was maximal immediately after exposure to UVA. The most intense responses (erythema with edema, or intense pigmentation) were induced more frequently by the highest irradiance. Components of both the erythema and the pigment response to UVA are therefore irradiance-dependent. The greatest increase in skin surface temperature was observed after exposure to the highest irradiance.
Measurements of brain amobarbital concentrations in rats anesthetized and overdosed with amobarbital and treated centrally with dibutyryl cyclic AMP

Abstract Three doses of amobarbital, an anesthetic dose (80 mg/kg), a minimum lethal dose (130 mg/kg), and a high lethal dose (180 mg/ kg) were administered intraperitoneally to groups of rats. All rats were injected intracerebroventricularly with 0.9% saline or dibutyryl cyclic AMP, 200 μg/rat. While those rats treated with saline solution were still sleeping at decapitation and those treated with dibutyryl cyclic AMP were awake, there were no significant differences in their brain concentrations of amobarbital.
Simultaneous Occurrence of American Burkitt's Lymphoma in Neighbors

BURKITT'S lymphoma is suspected of having a viral origin because of its geographic distribution and time-space clustering1 , 2 although plasmodial infection appears to be an important cofactor.3 , 4 Identification of patients in the Western Hemisphere with clinical and pathological features indistinguishable from African Burkitt's tumor is of particular interest since such cases provide an opportunity to investigate etiologic factors other than malaria that might be common to African, as well as non-African, patients. In the two children from northwestern Virginia living only three houses apart, who are described below, Burkitt's lymphomas developed at the same time. Case Reports Case 1. A 15-year-old . . .
Cardiac pathology of transvenous pacemakers

Abstract The cardiac pathology of the nine case with transvenous pacemakers was reviewed. Thrombosis which developed along the wire of the pacemakers was organized into a tight fibrous sheath adherent to the tricuspid valve or chordae tendineae, which may hinder replacement of the pacemakers. After inflammation subsided around the tip of the electrode, gradual fibrous thickening of the underlying endocardium occurred that may result in increased pacemaker threshold. Initial inflammation and thrombosis was noted in the SA node area which may be of no clinical significance. Complications of pulmonary embolism and perforation of the apex were also observed.
Genetic subdivision and morphological variation in a freshwater snail species complex formerly referred to as Viviparus georgianus (Lea)

Genetic and morphological variation was studied in a brooding (ovoviviparous) and morphologically variable freshwater snail [Viviparus georgianus (Lea)] species complex in southern Georgia and Florida. Eleven populations were clustered into three genetically isolated, allopatric groups characterized by 7 to 14 diagnostic loci out of the 38 loci examined. These allopatric groups were identified as V. georgianus (in eastern and southern Florida), V. limi (in the Ochlockonee River) and V. goodrichi (in the Florida panhandle). Nei's standard genetic distances between the species were large (0.23-0.52) compared to intraspecific distances (0.00-0.06). Hierarchical F-statistics for differentiation among sites within drainage systems (FSD) for V. goodrichi and V. georgianus were large (0.519 and 0.387, respectively). The FDT values (differentiation among drainage systems within the total area sampled) were negative or close to zero, so most of the intraspecific genetic differentiation was due to differences among populations within drianage systems, rather than to differences among systems. Canonical discriminant analysis of nine shell morphological measurements separated all three species with little overlap. Principal components analysis of the shell morphology revealed intraspecific variation among sites possibly due to environmental effects. This study demonstrates the marked genetic and morphological variation among and within drainage systems in freshwater prosobranchs.
The Nationalization of the Iraqi Petroleum Company

One of the more important developments in Iraq since the 1958 overthrow of the Hashemite monarchy was the nationalization of the Iraqi Petroleum Company on 1 June 1972. The nationalization of the IPC was the culmination of a long-standing power struggle between the IPC and the Iraqi government. This analysis is concerned with that power struggle and the consequent nationalization of the IPC.
Inhibited skeletal muscle healing in cyclooxygenase-2 gene-deficient mice: the role of PGE2 and PGF2α

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat skeletal muscle injury. However, studies have shown that NSAIDs may be detrimental to the healing process. Mediated by prost...
Effect of organoclay structure on morphology and properties of nanocomposites based on an amorphous polyamide

Abstract An amorphous polyamide (a-PA) and three organoclays, M 3 (HT) 1 , M 2 (HT) 2 and (HE) 2 M 1 T 1 , were melt processed to explore the effect of the organoclay structure on the extent of exfoliation and properties of these nanocomposites. Wide angle X-ray scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and stress–strain behavior were used to determine the degree of exfoliation of the nanocomposites. For quantitative assessment of the structure of the nanocomposites, a detailed particle analysis was made to provide various averages of the clay dimensions and aspect ratio. The results evaluated from different methods were generally consistent with each other. Nanocomposites based on the organoclays with one alkyl tail and hydroxyl ethyl groups gave well-exfoliated structures and high matrix reinforcement while nanocomposites from two-tailed organoclay contain a considerable concentration of intercalated stacks. Nanocomposites from the organoclays with one alkyl tail showed slightly better exfoliation and matrix reinforcement than those from the organoclays with hydroxyl ethyl groups. The organoclay structure trends for a-PA are analogous to what has been observed for nylon 6; this suggests that a-PA, like nylon 6, has good affinity for the pristine silicate surface of the clay leading to better exfoliation and enhanced mechanical properties with one-tailed organoclay than multiple-tailed organoclay. Furthermore, heat distortion temperatures were predicted from the dynamic mechanical properties of nanocomposites.