cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
State-space approach to analyze field-scale bromide leaching

Abstract Spatial variability of soil properties complicates the analysis of water and solute transport under field conditions. To meet this challenge, a novel experimental design with a scale-dependent treatment distribution was adopted earlier in a field study to assess the impact of land use and rainfall characteristics on Br − leaching with the aid of spectral analysis. The objective of the current study was to identify the major underlying processes that controlled Br − leaching in the previous experiment and to describe the spatial distribution of soil Br − site-specifically and in different soil layers, using an autoregressive state-space approach. Based on the boundary conditions investigated in this study, the state-space models for Br − concentration at 40–50 and 60–70 cm exhibited the best prediction quality compared to those at other depths. As indicated by the weight of each variable, land use dominated the spatial pattern of Br − at shallow depths; whereas, the spatial behavior of Br − below 40 cm was mainly affected by soil texture and to a smaller extent by rainfall intensity. In addition, the involvement of Br − concentration and soil texture of the adjacent layer above in the state-space analysis helped to describe the spatial distribution of Br − typically in the soil layer below 60 cm. These results not only demonstrated the applicability of state-space technique in diagnosing spatial solute transport relationships; but also held important implications for the surface application of chemicals.
Complexity of the Project Sequencing Problem

This paper analyzes the computational complexity of the project sequencing problem. Specifically, we prove that the general decision problem is NP-complete, but note that an important special case is solvable in polynomial time.
SU-E-T-615: Quantifying the Benefit of Adaptive Fractionation

Purpose: To quantify the benefit of adaptive fractionation, through both theoretical test cases and patient data. Methods: We consider the effect of delivering a different fraction size based on the changes observed in the patient anatomy. Given that a fixed prescription dose must be delivered to the tumor over the course of the treatment, we find that adaptively varying the fraction size results in a lower cumulative dose to a primary organ‐at‐risk (OAR). We construct a one dimensional theoretical example by randomly varying the distance between the tumor and OAR, and simulate the benefit of adaptive fractionation in such a setting. Next, we test our methodology using contoured daily CTimages from 5 prostate patients. Results: For the theoretical example, we found about a 10% decrease in dose to the OAR when using a uniformly distributed motion model and a 20% daily fraction size deviation. In general, the amount of decrease in dose to the OAR varied significantly (5–85%) for these theoretical test cases depending on the amount of motion in the anatomy, the number of fractions, and the range of fraction sizes allowed. Preliminary results from the prostate patients indicate an average reduction in dose to the rectum of 1.4%, 3.5%, and 7.0% when using 20%, 50%, and 100% daily fraction size deviations, respectively. Conclusions: Qualitatively, the theoretical example indicates that adaptive fractionation is beneficial for disease sites in which there is significant inter‐fractional motion. We also expect greater benefit when using many fractions and allowing for large daily fraction size deviations. For the prostate disease site in particular, we find that adaptive fractionation is beneficial only when allowing large daily fraction size deviations. Further research quantifying the gain for disease sites that exhibit significant inter‐fractional motion, such as rectal and cervical cancers, would be useful. Partially supported by Siemens.
A new fabrication process for micro optical elements using drie and oxidation

We have developed a new fabrication process of micro optical elements by applying DRIE (Deep Reactive Ion Etching) process and thermal oxidation, which enables us to make micro lenses and prisms on a silicon substrate without assembling. This process can also form other optical elements, such as light wave-guides by changing mask pattern.
A prospective analysis of staging laparoscopy in patients with primary and secondary hepatobiliary malignancies

Laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound are used widely in cancer staging and are perceived to prevent unnecessary open exploration in many patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of staging laparoscopy in improving resectability in patients with primary and secondary hepatobiliary malignancies. Over a 10-month period (November 1, 1997 to August 31, 1998), 186 patients with primary and secondary hepatobiliary cancers were submitted to operation for potentially curative resection. One hundred four patients staged laparoscopically (LAP) before laparotomy were compared prospectively to 82 patients undergoing exploration without laparoscopy (NO LAP). Assignment to each group was not random but was based on surgeon practice. Demographic data, diagnoses, the extent of preoperative evaluation, and the percentage of patients resected were similar in the two groups. Laparoscopy identified 26 (67%) of 39 patients with unresectable disease. In the NO LAP group, 28 patients (34%) had unresectable disease discovered at laparotomy. In patients with unresectable disease and submitted to biopsy only, the operating times were similar in the two groups (LAP 83 ±22 minutes vs. NO LAP 91 ±33 minutes; P = 0.4). However, laparoscopic staging significantly reduced the length of hospital stay (LAP 2.2 ±2 days vs. NO LAP 8.5 ±8.6 days; P = 0.006). Likewise, total hospital charges, normalized to 100 in the NO LAP patients, were significantly lower in the LAP group (LAP 54 ±42 vs. NO LAP 100 ±84; P = 0.02). Staging laparoscopy identified the majority of patients with unresectable hepatobiliary malignancies, significantly improved resectability, and reduced the number of days in the hospital and the total charges. The yield of laparoscopy was greatest for detecting peritoneal metastases (9 of 10), additional hepatic tumors (10 of 12), and unsuspected advanced cirrhosis (5 of 5) but often failed to identify nonresectability because of lymph node metastases, vascular involvement, or extensive biliary involvement. Eighty-three percent of patients subjected to laparotomy after laparoscopy underwent a potentially curative resection compared to 66% of those who were not staged laparoscopically.
Superoxide Generation by Human Fetal Granulocytes

Summary: Phagocytic leukocytes such as granulocytes and macrophages form an essential part of human host defense against infection by invading microorganisms. The present study demonstrates that normal fetal granulocytes undergo normal activation (i.e., the transition from the resting state to the respiratory burst) with a 75 ± 23 sec lag time and generate superoxide at 6.7 ± 2.3 nmole O2-/min/106 cells, a rate similar to that of adult granulocytes. Fetal granulocytes also resemble adult cells in the response of the superoxide generating system to temperature change and to the chemical inhibitors N-ethyl maleimide and 2-deoxyglucose. They show the same pattern of differential effects of these perturbations on the lag time and on the rate of superoxide generation as that previously described for adult granulocytes. The process of activation, expressed as the lag time, shows no inhibition at a high temperature that diminishes by 64% the rate of superoxide production. The metabolic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose affects only the rate and not the lag time. Both cyanide (in the presence of 2-deoxyglucose) and the sulfhydryl reagent N-ethyl maleimide inhibit the rate equally when added before or after completion of the activation process. Speculation: These fmdings provide a rationale for the observed feasibility of the prenatal diagnosis of chronic granulomatous disease and indicate that even a 16-wk fetus possesses at least this one mechanism of host defense.
The Church, the Closet, and the Couch: The Counselor's Role in Assisting Clients to Integrate Their Sexual Orientation and Religious Identity

In a recent article in The New York Times, therapy using Sexual Orientation Management was highlighted, with the focus on therapists assisting clients to live a heterosexual life because of their religious beliefs. The primary reasons for such an approach are to allow for client choice and respect on an equally important area of diversity, their religious affiliation and values. Although research has been performed on the intersection of religion and sexual orientation, there has not been an extensive analysis or criticism of this management technique. In this article, the authors explore the experience of religious clients struggling with their sexual orientation, discuss the potential counselor responses to sexual orientation religious issues, and the impact of each on the counseling field using ethical principles, existing research, and logical outcomes.
Evidence for the involvement of a single major species of replicative complex in DNA synthesis from two diverse nuclear replicons in yeast

Abstract The activity that replicates the 2-μm yeast DNA plasmid in vitro can be isolated as a high-molecular weight (∼2×106) fraction, which possesses many of the features of a multiprotein replicative complex. This fraction also initiates DNA synthesis at the yeast chromosomal replicator ARS1 raising the question whether the preparations discriminate between origins. It was determined that the binding of replicative complex to plasmids containing either 2- μm or ARS1 origins of replication was indistinguishable. The preparations also showed no preference among them for replication. In addition, the DNAs competed with each other to the same extent for binding of replicative complex. These results suggest that these two origins share one major species of replicative complex.
Effect of ACL Laxity on ACL Loading: Dynamic Simulation Using Impulsive Loads

Noncontact ACL injuries are among the most common, potentially traumatic and costly sport-related injuries, approximately 200,000 injuries occurring each year. Female athletes exhibit a trend toward higher rates of ACL injuries suggesting the influence of gender-specific characteristics. ACL laxity, a direct manifestation of hormonal cycling is a crucial differentiating factor between males and females that influences the strength and compliance of ACL when stressed. However, the mechanism through which ACL laxity implicates within an injury is unknown. Therefore, using FE methods, we tested the hypothesis that a lax ACL fails to adequately restrain the tibia during dynamic activities, resulting in lower intersegmental decelerations and subsequently, higher strain in the ACL. A 2D computational model of bones, meniscus, cartilage and ACL in sagittal plane was created. An impulse load was applied for 100ms (peak:1200N at 35ms) to simulate drop landing. Multiple simulations were run with varying ACL laxity. We observed that as stiffness increased from 50% to 150%, intersegmental deceleration increased by 10.9% and ACL strain reduced by 19.4%. These results indicate that relative peak deceleration of tibia can be used to predict ACL strain and is a potential clinical measure for identifying female athletes at risk for injury.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Airborne bacterial endospores detected by use of an impinger containing aqueous terbium chloride

An experimental investigation is described of a terbium luminescence sensor for continuous collection and detection of bacterial endospores suspended in the atmosphere. A sensor is presented that continuously monitors and rapidly detects small concentrations of aerosolized bacterial endospores. The aerosol particles are collected by an impinger from which terbium dipicolinate photoluminescence is measured. A preliminary test of the sensor is described with Bacillus globigii endospores that were dispersed in an aerosol chamber. Another experiment is described showing that evaporation of water from the impinger limits operation time of the sensor to a few hours.
Effect of precipitation on the albedo susceptibility of clouds in the marine boundary layer

TROPOSPHERIC aerosols are thought to have three important effects on the Earth's radiation budget: the direct radiative effect1 (pertur-bation of clear-sky reflectivity), the indirect radiative effect2 (modi-fication of cloud albedo) and the effect on the hydrological cycle3 (modification of the vertical thickness and horizontal extent of clouds). The first two effects have been understood in principle for nearly 20 years, and quantitative estimates of their magnitudes have been provided by models and observations4. The third phe-nomenon, and its relation to the other two, has received far less attention. Previous work3 has shown, however, that increases in aerosol concentration may act to increase cloud albedo by increas-ing horizontal cloud fraction as well as cloud reflectivity. Here we use a simple model of the marine cloud-topped boundary layer to investigate the changes in cloud thickness and albedo that result from changes in precipitation as particle concentrations vary. We find that the sensitivity of layer cloud albedo to droplet number concentration (the albedo susceptibility) is increased by 50–200% when the dependence of cloud thickness on particle number is included. The results suggest that the response of cloud thickness to changes in aerosol particle concentration must be taken into account for accurate prediction of global albedo by climate models.
Tailored anterior temporal lobectomy. Relation between extent of resection of mesial structures and postsurgical seizure outcome.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between the extent of resection of mesial temporal structures and postsurgical seizure outcome in a group of patients who had undergone a tailored anterior temporal lobectomy. Methods: Twenty-four patients with unilateral interictal and ictal foci restricted to anterior/mesial temporal regions underwent resection of mesial and temporal lateral structures, the extent of which was tailored by intraoperative electrocorticographic findings and functional mapping of eloquent cortex. The extent of resection was determined with postoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans, using a semiquantitative method, based on a 20-compartment model of the temporal lobe. The magnetic resonance imaging scans were rated by three investigators blinded to seizure outcome. Follow-up period ranged between 18 months and 5 years. Results: Amygdala and hippocampus were spared in six patients; nine patients had a partial to total resection of amygdala, eight patients had a resection of amygdala and the anterior third of the hippocampus, and one patient underwent resection of amygdala and anterior two thirds of hippocampus. Twenty-one of the 24 patients were seizure free (Engel's class I) and three had rare seizures (Engel's class II). Among these three patients, one had a resection of amygdala; one had resection of amygdala and anterior third of hippocampus; while in the third patient, mesial structures were spared. Conclusion: These data suggest that in patients with an anterotemporal seizure focus, the sparing or limited resection of amygdala and/or hippocampus is not necessarily associated with a poor seizure outcome, as had been previously suggested, provided that the decision not to resect is based on the absence of epileptiform activity during intraoperative electrocorticography or during recordings with depth electrodes.
A macronutrient optimization platform for micropropagation and acclimatization: using turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) as a model plant

Tissue culture medium is often overlooked as a factor in plant biotechnology. Most work uses Murashige and Skoog (MS; Physiol Plant in 15:473–497, 1962) inorganic medium formulation, which is not likely optimal for many of the plant systems where it is used. This current study of macronutrient factors simultaneously altered media volume and amount of tissue (plants per vessel), sucrose, nitrogen (as NO 3 − and NH 4 + ions), and K+ in a d-optimal design space with only 55 experimental units (including five true replicates). Meso- and micro-nutrient concentrations were lowered (5% of MS) to determine which elements were most critical to plantlet quality. Plantlet quality was quantified by multiplication in the laboratory and survival and growth in the greenhouse. Plantlets grown at the lowest plant density, the lowest macronutrient concentration (20 mM), and equi-molar proportions of NH 4 + /K+ resulted in the best multiplication ratio and 100% greenhouse survival. Multiplication ratio in vitro and survival in the greenhouse were well correlated with one another. Laboratory dry mass, media use, sucrose use, and the uptake of the macronutrients NO 3 − , NH 4 + , and K+ were not well correlated with plantlet quality. Plantlets with the greatest uptake of P, Ca, Mg, and Mn had the best multiplication in the laboratory and on subsequent transfer, acclimatized and grew fastest in the greenhouse. Phosphorus was shown to be most depleted in media. This work demonstrates a platform to simultaneously optimize several nutritive components of tissue culture media to produce plantlets that perform well in both laboratory and greenhouse environments. Plant quality was related with factors outside the macronutrient design, and this platform indicated where to expand the experimental space. Fixed, flat-screen presentations revealed less of the response surface than interactive profiles driven by the reader.
Drugs and Eros: Reflections on Aphrodisiacs

(1978). Drugs and Eros: Reflections on Aphrodisiacs. Journal of Psychedelic Drugs: Vol. 10, No. 3, pp. 227-236.
SECOND LANGUAGE SPEECH PERCEPTION AND PRODUCTION: ACQUISITION OF PHONOLOGICAL CONTRASTS IN JAPANESE

SECOND LANGUAGE SPEECH PERCEPTION AND PRODUCTION: ACQUISITION OF PHONOLOGICAL CONTRASTS IN JAPANESE. Takako Toda. Landam, MD: University Press of America, 2003. Pp. 213. $63.00 cloth.This volume is an investigation into second language (L2) phonology. The subject of Toda's study is the development of the syllable timing system of Japanese by learners who are native speakers of English. Toda points out that acquiring a L2 phonology involves more than producing the language without an accent. It is also necessary to develop a system of representations and rules that will govern language use. English and Japanese differ in that while English relies on stress to determine syllable weight, Japanese uses time. This study investigates the extent to which learners of Japanese as a L2 have acquired that aspect of the Japanese syllable and makes use of both perception and production tasks. One of the assumptions of this study—an assumption founded on previous studies in L2 phonology—is that perception and production are interrelated, but that they are not mirror images of one another.
Nerve growth factor inhibits PC12 cell PDE 2 phosphodiesterase activity and increases PDE 2 binding to phosphoproteins

Nerve growth factor (NGF) has been shown to increase cyclic AMP in PC12 cells and to potentiate the actions of other agents that raise cyclic AMP. In our studies, NGF causes over 50% loss of PDE 2 activity (cyclic GMP-stimulated cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase) in PC12 cells within 24 h. After 72 h of NGF treatment, cyclic AMP hydrolysis in PC12 extracts is no longer cyclic GMP-stimulated. NGF deprivation increases the phosphodiesterase activity of treated cells. NGF does not decrease either PDE 2 mRNA or immunoreactivity of PDE 2A2 protein. Incubation of whole cells with micromolar Na(3)VO(4) mimics NGF treatment, reducing PDE 2 activity in PC12 cells by over 50% after 24 h, suggesting a phosphoprotein-mediated regulation of PDE 2 activity. Protein kinase inhibitor effects were difficult to assess due to their direct interaction with the PDE in cell lysates. To study phosphorylation in PDE 2 regulation, PDE 2A2 was epitope-tagged, and stable clonal PC12 cell transfectants were isolated (PC12B cells). When combined with metabolically labeled (32)P-phosphoproteins in vivo or in vitro, phosphoproteins of 108, 90, 64, 43, 33 and 19 kDa coprecipitated with epitope-tagged PDE 2A2 in an NGF sensitive manner. A 23-kDa phosphoprotein containing immunoreactive phosphoserine associated with the complex in an NGF independent manner. Phosphothreonine plus phosphotyrosine immunoreactivity at 23, 24, and 64 kDa as well as the phosphotyrosine immunoreactivity at 108, 90, 64, 43, 33, and 19 kDa required NGF or orthovanadate treatment. These proteins are hypothesized to be part of an NGF-regulated complex controlling PDE 2A2 activity.
Spectroscopic studies on pepsin-solubilized vitreous and cartilage collagens.

Circular dichroism and the fluorescent probe, 2-p-toiuidinyl-naphthalene-6-sulfonate, were used to compare the molecular properties of pepsin-solubilized vitreous collagen with cartilage and calfskin collagens. Type II vitreous and cartilage collagens have more hydrophobic regions along their molecular domain than does type I calfskin collagen. The rate of fibril growth is faster in type II collagens than in type I. The increased hydrophobicity of type II collagens is attributed to high carbohydrate content and compositional variations. Although the secondary structures of the three collagens do not differ significantly, differences in carbohydrate content, composition, and hydrophobic character may cause some variations in the tertiary structures. It is suggested that the tertiary structure plays an important role in the nature and rate of fibril growth. Differences between cartilage and vitreous collagen in fluorescence behavior, fibril growth, and melting temperature indicate that vitreous collagen may...
The Effects of International Trade on Democracy: A Panel Study of the Post-Soviet World-System

The author examines the relationship between democracy and international trade using post-Soviet countries as a historical example of a world-system. World-systems theory and alternative theories are employed to create theoretical models of democracy, and pooled timeseries regression is applied, using an index of democracy as the dependent variable and two sets of theoretically distinct control variables. The author finds a negative relationship between core periphery trade and democracy and a positive relationship between trade openness and democracy in the periphery. The author draws three conclusions. First, international trade deserves more attention as a link between economic and political processes in world-systems analysis. Second, contrary to conventional analysis, the structure of core-periphery trade shows that the core uses its economic ties to politically exploit the periphery. Last, it is necessary to distinguish between core and noncore international trade in world-systems and political anal...
Movements out of Poverty among Elderly Widows

Elderly widows are disproportionately in poverty in the United States. However, past research has also shown that a significant number of poor elderly widows do move out of poverty. This work addresses two questions: What are the characteristics of elderly widows who exited from poverty, and what is the magnitude of the increase in income at the time of exit? An event history approach was taken using monthly data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation. Some of the findings are: living with family members is a strong predictor for the transition out of poverty among poor elderly women; those who are permanently impoverished tend to rely solely on food stamps and SSI; elderly widows from poverty with relatively large increases in income; those who exited due to an increase in pension income or gifts had increased their income significantly more than those who exited through other sources.
Type I interferon and T helper 17 cells co-exist and co-regulate disease pathogenesis in lupus patients.

Aim T-helper 17 cells (Th17) and type I interferon (IFN-I) play a critical role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Previous studies have suggested that IFN-I suppresses Th17 development under autoimmune settings. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to define the association between IFN-I and Th17 pathways in SLE. Methods Peripheral blood samples and disease activity measures were collected from 31 patients fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology revised criteria for SLE. Serum was evaluated for IFN-α bioactivity and interleukin (IL)-6 levels by cell-based bioluminescence assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The frequency of Th17 cells in peripheral blood was determined by intracellular cytokine staining for IL-17. Results IFN-α bioactivity in the serum of lupus subjects (mean ± SD: 6.510 ± 3.686) was significantly higher (P = 0.001) compared to healthy controls (2.9 ± 1.061). Additionally, 58.1% and 41.9% of SLE subjects displayed high and low IFN-α bioactivity, respectively. We observed a significant increase (P = 0.04) in the percentage of Th17 cells in lupus subjects with high IFN-α bioactivity (1.9 ± 1.0) compared to lupus subjects with low IFN-α bioactivity (1.2 ± 0.9). Lupus subjects with high IFN-α bioactivity and Th17 cells had significantly higher disease activity (P = 0.04) and serum IL-6 levels (P = 0.01) compared to patients with low IFN-α activity and low Th17 cells. Conclusion Type I interferon and Th17 pathways co-exist and co-regulate the pathogenic processes in SLE. Additionally, these studies clearly identify IL-6 as a common link between IFN-I and Th17 pathways in SLE pathogenesis.
Identification of early recurrence of primary central nervous system tumors by [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography

As aggressive neurosurgery and adjuvant therapy have become standard care for most patients with primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors, limitations of posttreatment neuroimaging techniques have become more apparent. Interpretation of computed cranial tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with brain tumors is complicated by changes related to surgery, corticosteroids, radiation, and chemotherapy. We investigated the role of 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in these difficult diagnostic situations by obtaining FDG-PET scans in 5 patients following temporal lobectomy for epilepsy, in 5 patients with recurrent anaplastic gliomas before and after corticosteroid therapy, and in 5 patients after the development of histologically confirmed radionecrosis. We also obtained postoperative FDG-PET scans in 32 consecutive patients undergoing initial resection of a primary brain tumor. Our results indicate that glucose uptake as detected by FDG-PET scanning with [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose is not increased in the postoperative period; is not affected by steroid therapy; and accurately predicts early recurrence of tumor, supplementing other predictors of tumor behavior, including extent of resection, histological diagnosis, and postoperative CT. Thus PET using [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose can contribute to the optimum management of patients with primary brain tumors.
A Simple Propellane Synthesis

Abstract A dianion-mediated dialkylation reaction provides ready access to a heterocyclic propellane. The methodology should provide a general entry into a variety of similar systems.
Achieving public health legal preparedness: how dissonant views on public health law threaten emergency preparedness and response

Background Effective management of modern public health emergencies requires the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies representing various disciplines. Organizational culture differences between public health (PH) and emergency management (EM) entities may hinder interagency collaboration. We examine how PH and EM differ in their approach to PH law and how such differences affect their collaboration towards PH preparedness. Methods We conducted 144 semi-structured interviews with local and state PH and EM officials between April 2008 and November 2009. Thematic qualitative analysis in ATLAS.ti was used to extract characteristics of each agency’s approach to PH legal preparedness. Results Two conflicting approaches to the law emerge. The PH approach is characterized by perceived uncertainty regarding legal authority over preparedness planning tasks; expectation for guidance on interpretation of existing laws; and concern about individual and organizational liability. The EM approach reveals perception of broad legal authority; flexible interpretation of existing laws; and ethical concerns over infringement of individual freedoms and privacy.
Case 4 Intestinal Neuronal Dysplasia in a Case of Sigmoid Stenosis

(1992). Case 4 Intestinal Neuronal Dysplasia in a Case of Sigmoid Stenosis. Pediatric Pathology: Vol. 12, No. 2, pp. 275-280.
Solid Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Films by Pulsed Chemical Vapor Deposition from Metal-organic Precursors

A pulsed chemical vapor deposition from metal-organic precursors (MOCVD) system was used to produce solid zirconia, and yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) films. A total of six candidate metal-organic precursors for zirconia and three for yttria were investigated. Three precursor solutions for YSZ proved suitable for pulsed-MOCVD processing. Layers were deposited on metal, alumina, and porous nickel cermet substrates. Under optimal deposition conditions, precursor conversion efficiency of 90% was achieved using a solution of 3.74 vol% zirconium 2-methyl-2-butoxide + 0.42% yttium methoxyethoxide in toluene. The film growth rate was 7.5 μm·h−1 at 525°C deposition temperature. Two alkoxide precursors produced YSZ layers with material costs under $0.50/(μm·cm2).
Kaletra (Lopinavir/Ritonavir)

OBJECTIVE:To review the pharmacology, virology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, and clinical use of lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra, Abbott Laboratories).DATA SOURCES:English-language MEDLINE and AIDSline searches were performed (1966–July 2001) using lopinavir, ABT-378, and Kaletra as key words. Abstracts from infectious diseases and HIV scientific meetings were identified. Abbott Laboratories provided additional published and unpublished information.DATA EXTRACTION:All publications, meeting abstracts, and unpublished information were reviewed and relevant items included. In vitro and preclinical studies were included as well as Phase II and III clinical trials.DATA SYNTHESIS:Lopinavir/ritonavir is a fixed-dose protease inhibitor (PI) combination used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Lopinavir, the active component of this combination, is extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 and produces low systemic concentrations when used alone. Ritonavir potently inhibits CYP3A4 and is used to enhance the systemic...
Bioclimatic Implications and Distribution Patterns of the Modern Ground Beetle Fauna (Insecta: Coleoptera: Carabidae) of the Arctic Slope of Alaska, U.S.A.

Some 56 species of Carabidae have been previously reported on the Arctic Slope of Alaska; of these, only nine have been found at coastal sites in the region. Though for some taxa (e.g., most species of Bembidion ) this may reflect a lack of suitable habitat in the coastal environment, for most others it probably reflects the summer temperature differences between the relatively cool coastal areas (mean July temp [mJt] of ca. 4°C) and warmer interior sites (mJt of ca. 9-10°C). The boundary between the relatively species-rich interior fauna and the more depauperate coastal fauna is probably also approximated by the inland limit of incursions of cool summer coastal fogs, which coincides with a sharp vegetational boundary. Additional systematic collecting of specimens and a coordinated effort to gather climate data will be needed to delimit distributional limits more closely and to provide background data for both modern environmental monitoring and paleoenvironmental reconstructions.
Disengagement of Nascent Entrepreneurs from the Start‐Up Process

This study examines the roles of entrepreneur motivation and a potentially adverse founding condition in disengagement of nascent entrepreneurs from the start‐up process. Specifically, measures of ...
Power Allocation for Distributed Turbo Product Codes (DTPC)

In this paper we investigate the effect of power allocation on the performance of the Distributed Turbo Product Code (DTPC) system. We study the error propagation on distributed coding systems when the relay makes erroneous decisions and present a simple power allocation method to alleviate the effect of relay decoding errors on the iterative decoding at the destination. We validate this method with results of an exhaustive search and compare its performance with the fixed power assignments for DTPC system with Decode and Forward (DF) and Soft Decode and Forward (SDF) relaying protocols. Compared to the fixed power assignment, the proposed method for power allocation shows a performance gain of 1.2 dB at 10^{-4} Bit Error Rate (BER).
Simulations of High -Speed Internal Flows using LES/RANS Models

Computational stud ies of transverse sonic injection of ethylene into a Mach 1.98 cro ss flow and Mach 5 flow of air into a subscale inlet / isolator configuration are presented . A hybrid large -eddy simulation / Reynolds -averaged Navier -Stokes (LES/RANS) turbulence model is used , with the two -equation Menter -BSL closure for the RANS part of the flow and a Smagorinsky -type model for the LES part of the flow . A time -dependent blending function, dependent on modeled turbulence variables, is used to shift the closure from RANS to LES. Turbulent st ructures are sustained through the use of a ‘random -walk’ recycling / rescaling technique . The ethylene injection results using the hybrid model show s very good agreement with the Raman scattering data collected at the Air Force Research Laboratory . The LE S/RANS database is used to examine the validity of the commonly -used assumption of a constant Schmidt number in the intense mixing zone downstream of the injection location . Predictions of Mach 5 flow into the inlet / isolator are compared with particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) and wall pressure data obtained at the University of Texas . Preliminary computational results are presented for two cases involving shock -train propagation within the isolator, one of which leads to inlet unstart. Here, the compu tational method appears to predict more flow separation than indicated in the experiment, leading to stronger shock trains that are not stabilized at the correct position.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Risk Factors, Pathophysiology and Pathogenesis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is defined in this chapter, and the relation between its two major components, (a) chronic bronchitis and emphysema and (b) nonremitting asthma, is discussed. Intensity of tobacco smoking and age are the major risk factors for the development of chronic airways obstruction. Environmental air pollution, childhood infections, and familial factors other than alpha-1 protease inhibitor deficiency appear to play only small roles. Emphysema is the major cause of severe airways obstruction; bronchiolitis is a contributing factor and likely is responsible for the minor reversible element of airways obstruction. The elastase-antielastase hypothesis, which is based mainly on indirect evidence, is the best explanation for the pathogenesis of emphysema. Extensive airspace enlargement with fibrosis is infrequently observed; this mechanism may play a role in the pathogenesis of the centrilobular emphysema of smokers.
Close the task; improve the discourse

Este articulo trata de un estudio comparativo entre tareas abiertas y cerradas en la ensenanza de lenguas extranjeras; llevado a cabo con hablantes no nativos del espanol. La evidencia obtenida tiende a indicar que las tareas cerradas favorecen una produccion oral mas compleja; sin que por ello se pierda precision. Los resultados preliminares de la investigacion sugieren que es conveniente incorporar tareas cerradas entre las actividades pedagogicas de los programas de lenguas extranjeras.
Pitching Trustworthiness: Cues for Trust in Early-Stage Investment Decision-Making

Most studies examining how early-stage investors determine in which entrepreneurs they will invest focus primarily on financial or objective factors of the business: market potential, return on investment, economic aspects of the business model without accounting for the interpersonal analysis – whether to trust the entrepreneur with time, money, and a long-term relationship. I used a sample of 101 videos of entrepreneurs pitching to a network of angel investors to determine the relationship between observed cues during the pitch and trust, and interest in investing. I identify specific cues that lead to the determination of trust in the entrepreneur during the pitch.
CCN-cloud-climate hypothesis: Chemical role

Publisher Summary Cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) are produced naturally and anthropogenically, and are the building blocks of cloud. They influence the cloud albedo by exercising influence on the droplet size distribution, especially within 100 m depth from the cloud top. This chapter analyzes the possible roles of atmospheric chemical species in CCN-cloud-climate hypothesis. The chemical species are initiators in CCN-cloud-climate hypothesis. Results show that DMS and organic acids (formic and acetic) could have potentially underlying roles in CCN-cloud-climate hypothesis because of their atmospheric chemical characteristics and their global potentially natural sources.
Dynamic Estuary Model Performance

Applications of the Dynamic Estuary model (DEM) to both the Delaware and Potomac Estuaries by the Environmental Protection Agency during the 1970s are summarized and evaluated. Methods for calibrating, refining, and validating this model, and statistics for evaluating its performance are discussed. Following a brief description of DEM, observed and predicted hydrodynamic, mass transport, and water quality variables are statistically analyzed for the Delaware and Potomac applicatins. Weaknesses in the model and in these applications are identified. Model performance is evaluated for its usefulness to investigations of wastewater management alternatives in tidal rivers and the upper reaches of estuaries. Results indicate that the DEM can describe real-time longitudinal tidal hydraulics with good accuracy for relatively steady flow periods and can predict longitudinal mass circulation with sufficient accuracy for well-mixed, far-field conditions. The DEM can adequately predict relative differences in water quality to be expected from incremental wastewater management alternatives, but more realistic kinetic structures are needed to predict water quality response to large changes in waste load characteristics.
Partisan Impacts on Social Policy and Distributive Outcomes in the Eras of Welfare State Expansion and Retrenchment

This paper examines the changing role of partisan government in shaping social policy and distributive outcomes in post-industrial democracies. The paper attempts to evaluate the thesis that partisan effects disappeared (Pierson 1996) or dramatically declined (Huber and Stephens 2001a) when countries moved from the period of welfare state expansion to the period of welfare state retrenchment. The dependent variables are 6 measures of social spending, 6 measures of social rights, welfare state employment, and 4 measures of distributive outcomes. The analysis compares the effect of social democratic and Christian democratic government before 1986 and after 1985, with 1985 as our operationalization of the divide between the era welfare state expansion and welfare state retrenchment. We find pervasive effects of social democratic government on almost all measures of social rights, expenditure, employment, and distributive outcomes in the expansion era. In the expansion era, Christian democratic government has positive effects on most spending measures of social protection but not on measures of social investment and work and family reconciliation. Christian democratic government has negative effects on three measures of poverty but no effect on redistribution. Social democratic government has no effect on most measures of social protection and distributive outcomes in the retrenchment era but continues to have positive effects on measures of social investment and work and family reconciliation. In this period, Christian democratic government has a negative effect on one of the pension rights measures and on welfare state employment and positive (poverty increasing) effects on two of the poverty measures, indicating that Christian democratic governments retrenched previously very generous pension systems and did not put into place appropriate social policies to confront new social risks.
Microparticulate/nanoparticulate powders of a novel Nrf2 activator and an aerosol performance enhancer for pulmonary delivery targeting the lung Nrf2/Keap-1 pathway

This systematic and comprehensive study reports for the first time on the successful rational design of advanced inhalable therapeutic dry powders containing dimethyl fumarate, a first-in-class Nrf2 activator drug to treat pulmonary inflammation, using particle engineering design technology for targeted delivery to the lungs as advanced spray dried (SD) one-component DPIs. In addition, two-component co-spray dried (co-SD) DMF:D-Man DPIs with high drug loading were successfully designed for targeted lung delivery as advanced DPIs using organic solution advanced spray drying in closed mode. Regional targeted deposition using design of experiments (DoE) for in vitro predictive lung modeling based on aerodynamic properties was tailored based on composition and spray drying parameters. These findings indicate the significant potential of using D-Man in spray drying to improve particle formation and aerosol performance of small molecule with a relatively low melting point. These respirable microparticles/nanoparticles in the solid-state exhibited excellent aerosol dispersion performance with an FDA-approved human DPI device. Using in vitro predictive lung deposition modeling, the aerosol deposition patterns of these particles show the capability to reach lower airways to treat inflammation in this region in pulmonary diseases such as acute lung injury (ALI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary hypertension (PH), and pulmonary endothelial disease.
Clinical practice. Acute appendicitis--appendectomy or the "antibiotics first" strategy.

A 56-year-old man presents with a 2-day history of abdominal pain. The pain began centrally but has moved to the right lower quadrant of his abdomen in the past 6 hours. He has a body-mass index (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) of 33, a body temperature of 100°F (37.8°C), and a white-cell count of 11,500 per cubic millimeter. The right side of his lower abdomen is tender to palpation. A computed tomographic (CT) scan was ordered by his primary care physician after he was examined in the clinic, and the results are consistent with appendicitis. He has had three prior surgical procedures: an open Nissen fundoplication complicated by a pulmonary embolism and two incisional hernia repairs with mesh. After receiving the results of his CT scan, he found information online about doctors in Europe who are using antibiotics alone to treat appendicitis, and he asks specifically about that option. How would you manage this case?
Case 11-2003: A 14-year-old boy with ulcerative colitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and partial duodenal obstruction

Presentation of Case A 14-year-old boy with a history of ulcerative colitis was admitted to the hospital because of vomiting and abdominal pain. Ulcerative colitis had been diagnosed at the age of three years by colonoscopic examination after a barium-enema examination had revealed no abnormalities. In subsequent years, progression of the disease was well controlled with the administration of mesalamine and short courses of an adrenocorticosteroid medication for flares; hospital admission was not required. The patient lived with his parents, two siblings, and a healthy dog. There was no family history of gastrointestinal or autoimmune diseases. First Admission Fourteen months . . .
Institutional Ownership and Corporate R&D in the Computer Industry

The article discusses a study on the relationship between institutional ownership and research and development (R&D) spending in several companies for the period 1980 to 1983, with a focus on the c...
Cystic fibrosis: molecular diagnosis, population screening, and public policy.

○ Objective.-To review the current status of scientific knowledge and opinion regarding molecular genetic testing of mutations in the CFTR gene for purposes of diagnosis and population carrier screening of cystic fibrosis (CF). Data Sources.-Published research findings on the nature of the CFTR gene, pilot population screening studies in the United States and Europe, and ongoing deliberations of professional and governmental agencies considering implementation of widespread testing. Study Selection.-Findings relevant to the molecular heterogeneity of CFTR mutations and its implications for population carrier screening were considered. Data Extraction.-Information was extracted from studies published by us and others, as made available to recent consensus panels and professional committees. Data Synthesis.-These data were reevaluated in light of recent movements in professional and public policy regarding acceptability and desirability of widespread CF mutation testing. Effects to date of such testing on patient outcomes is reported. Conclusions.-The ability to test for CFTR mutations at the molecular level has already improved the diagnosis of symptomatic patients and expanded the reproductive options of family members of CF patients. The same technology also holds promise of identifying asymptomatic carriers and at-risk couples without family history in the general population so that they too might be offered prenatal diagnosis or other options. However, a number of key questions remain to be worked out before a widespread national screening program can be put into practice. These include the target population to be offered testing (the entire population vs high-risk ethnic groups), the size and nature of the mutation test panel (universal vs ethnic specific), the inclusion or exclusion of CFTR variants that do not cause classical CF, the optimal testing technology, appropriate standards for laboratory quality assurance, and the development of sufficient educational materials and genetic counseling resources for test delivery, reporting, and interpretation. The answers to these questions will be relevant not only to CF testing but also to many other large-scale molecular genetic screening programs being considered in the future.
A TiN strapped polysilicon gate cobalt salicide CMOS process

A novel TiN strapped polysilicon gate cobalt salicide process has been developed for a submicron CMOS technology. The resulting MOSFET structure consists of a TiN strapped polysilicon gate electrode and self-aligned cobalt silicided source/drain junctions. This structure provides a low-sheet-resistance polysilicon gate with shallow, low-leakage source/drain junctions, while avoiding the lateral dopant interdiffusion of silicided gates. Furthermore, the TiN strapped layer eliminates cobalt silicide creep and bridging over the oxide sidewall spacers between the gate and source/drain regions. >