cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Martian isotopic ratios and upper limits for possible minor constituents as derived from Mariner 9 infrared spectrometer data

Abstract The Mariner 9 infrared spectrometer obtained data over a large part of Mars for almost a year beginning late in 1971. Mars' infrared emission spectrum was measured from 200 to 2000 cm −1 with an apodized resolution of 2.4 cm −1 . No significant deviation from terrestrial ratios of carbon ( 12 C/ 13 C) or oxygen ( 16 O/ 18 O; 16 O/ 17 O) isotopes was observed on Mars. The 12 C/ 13 C isotopic ratio was found to be terrestrial with an uncertainty of 15%. Upper limits have been calculated for several minor constituents. With an effective noise equivalent radiance of 1.2 × 10 −9 W cm −2 sr −1 /cm −1 , new upper limits in centimeter-atmospheres of 2 × 10 −5 for C 2 H 2 , 4 × 10 −3 for C 2 H 4 , 3 × 10 −3 for C 2 H 6 , 2 × 10 −4 for CH 4 , 1 × 10 −3 for N 2 O, 1 × 10 −4 for NO 2 , 4 × 10 −5 for NH 3 , 1 × 10 −3 for PH 3 , 7 × 10 −4 for SO 2 , and 1 × 10 −4 for OCS have been derived.
Functional response ofCurinus coeruleus (Col.: Coccinellidae) toHeteropsylla cubana (Hom.: Psyllidae) on artificial and natural substrates

Laboratory measurements of the functional response of adultCurinus coeruleus (Mulsant) to nymphs ofHeteropsylla cubana Crawford on filter paper and on leaves of different host plants showed a significant effect of these different substrates on nymph consumption at several different densities. Moreover, this effect may be explained by the influence of the substrate on the search rate of the predator. Host plants tested includedLeucaena leucocephala (Lam) de Witt,L. diversifolia (Schlecht.) Benth. andL. pallida Britton and Rose.
Freudenburg on technological risks: transcendent or titanic?

This essay focuses on the collaborative work Bill and I produced. In this trajectory, I learned to appreciate Bill’s work both for his empirical rigor and his elegant and witty theoretical analysis, a rare mixture in the dry world of social theorizing. Bill’s work engaged in an ongoing dialog with European sociologists whose grand theorizing on risks has led to seriously flawed and empirically questionable theoretical analyses. By comparison, Bill found in the middle-range American tradition of Erikson, Perrow, Short, and others a more theoretically rigorous and empirically sound analysis of environmental and technological risks. Bill understood that high-risk technologies in general and nuclear technology in particular, tend to work properly most of the time, but with occasional failures sufficiently troublesome to lead to the creation of what Short (1984) termed “risk to the social fabric.” Building on his work and rich legacy, I continue this theoretical dialog and propose that although some of the most provocative sociological thinking about risks is associated with Beck and Giddens, the more nuanced views of authors such as Freudenburg and colleagues are sociologically more robust, both theoretically and empirically. The key difference is that, while Beck and Giddens see the risks of “The Risk Society” as transcending all social boundaries, Freudenburg and others see them as “Titanic Risks”.
Changes in lipid composition of cortical synaptosomes from different age groups of mice

Lipid composition of cortical synaptosomes differed with age in C57BL/6NNIA mice. Significant age differences were observed for cholesterol and the ratio of cholesterol to total phospholipid phosphorus content. The phospholipid to protein ratio of individual phospholipids also increased with age with diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PC) increasing the most. Acyl group composition of individual phospholipids, however, showed little age difference. The double bond index for PC decreased significantly with age. Changes in membrane composition may help explain differences in the effects of ethanol on the physical and biochemical properties of membranes from different age groups that have been reported previously.
Approximate dynamic programming methods for an inventory allocation problem under uncertainty

We propose two approximate dynamic programming methods to optimize the distribution operations of a company manufacturing a certain product at multiple production plants and shipping it to different customer locations for sale. We begin by formulating the problem as a dynamic program. Our first approximate dynamic programming method uses a linear approximation of the value function and computes the parameters of this approximation by using the linear programming representation of the dynamic program. Our second method relaxes the constraints that link the decisions for different production plants. Consequently, the dynamic program decomposes by the production plants. Computational experiments show that the proposed methods are computationally attractive, and in particular, the second method performs significantly better than standard benchmarks.
Molecular cytogenetic characterization of the KG‐1 and KG‐1a acute myeloid leukemia cell lines by use of spectral karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization

The KG-1 cell line, established from bone marrow cells of a patient with erythroleukemia evolving to acute myelogenous leukemia, and its less differentiated variant, KG-1a, are widely used in research worldwide. However, to our knowledge, neither cell line was studied by use of molecular-cytogenetic techniques such as spectral karyotyping (SKY) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Our G-banding, SKY, and FISH analyses revealed a complex karyotype with a pseudodiploid modal chromosome number in both the KG-1 and KG-1a cell lines. The lines shared several identical structural aberrations, including der(4)t(4;8), del(7q), der(8)t(8;12), idic(8)(p11), der(17)t(5;17), and der(20)t(12;20), but also differed with regard to other chromosome rearrangements. In contrast to KG-1, the KG-1a line lost one of the two copies of idic(8)(p11) present in KG-1 cells and gained a der(8;22)(q24;q13), an i(11)(q10), and a der(19)t(14;19)(q13;q13.4). Notably, we have shown that the KG-1 cells harbor a partial hexasomy of the long arm of chromosome 8, which may explain in part the previously reported significantly higher rate of formation of the AML1-ETO fusion gene in KG-1 cells subjected to high-dose gamma irradiation compared with the rates of formation of the BCR-ABL or the DEK-CAN fusion gene. Our detailed description of chromosome rearrangements in KG-1 and KG-1a will be useful for the cytogenetic authentication of the lines, and provide clues as to the regions of the genome that could be studied further to explain the differences in phenotypic properties between KG-1 and KG-1a cells. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fuzzy-logic-based process modeling using limited experimental data

Abstract Process modeling with limited experimental data is always a difficult task. It becomes even more difficult if the process is highly nonlinear and is characterized by multiple inputs and outputs. Under these circumstances, fuzzy logic may show its capabilities for model development. In this paper, an efficient fuzzy modeling methodology is introduced. The resulting fuzzy model consists of a number of fuzzy implications, each of which is of an IF–THEN form. The IF part consists of a set of logically related antecedents, while the THEN part contains a consequent expressed as a set of linear models. To ensure model simplicity and to accelerate the modeling process, an effective model-development route has been developed. To guarantee the model’s reliability, a t -test-based non-linearity analysis is proposed when each fuzzy implication is developed. The efficacy of the methodology is demonstrated by modeling two nonlinear industrial processes.
Nonlinear strain–electric field relationship of carbon nanotube buckypaper/Nafion actuators

Abstract Due to their large electric field-induced strains and flexibility, carbon nanotube thin film or buckypaper/Nafion actuators can be used in various applications, such as lightweight, low power consuming electroactive materials for morphing structures. However, this material is very new, and only limited studies have been devoted to characterizing and understanding their electromechanical couplings. This paper reports on the study of the conversion mechanism and determination of the current flowing through buckypaper/Nafion actuators driven by electric fields. Experimental results revealed that the saturation of the electrically induced strains of the actuator were due to nonlinear characteristics between the electric field and electric charge behaviours. Moreover, by modeling the electric charge changes versus electric fields, we are able to calculate the strain and current versus electric fields of the actuators. The predicted values were in good agreement with the experimental data. The efficiency of the conversion was calculated and demonstrated to determine the potential of CNT buckypaper/Nafion actuators for smart structure applications.
Fission of /sup 238/U induced by inelastic scattering of 120 MeV. cap alpha. particles

The fission decay of /sup 238/U has been measured as a function of excitation energy in inelastic scattering of 120 MeV ..cap alpha.. particles. Total kinetic energies and masses of fission fragments were measured by the double energy method. It is observed that the total kinetic energy E/sub K/ decreases and that the valley in the mass distribution is reduced when the excitation energy of the system is increased. No indication of anomalous total kinetic energy release in the region of the giant quadrupole resonance has been found. A qualitative interpretation of the data is given on the basis of a static scission point model.
Up-, down-, and sideways-conversion for quantum information

Frequency up- and down-conversion in nonlinear crystals enables several fundamental resources for optical quantum information, including on-demand single photons, entangled-photon states, and efficient conversion of photons' quantum states from one wavelength to another
Cover-avoid subgroups in finite solvable groups

This paper is concerned with two classes of subgroups of finite solvable groups, S-normalizers, introduced by R. Carter and T. 0. Hawkes in [I], and g-prefrattini subgroups, investigated by T. 0. Hawkes in [2]. Both g-normalizers and F-prefrattini subgroups of a solvable group G cover certain chief factors of G and avoid the remaining chief factors. In this article we are concerned with the following question. To what extent does the coveravoid property characterize the given classes of supgroups in an arbitrary group G ? A permutability condition is given, which together with the coveravoid property does characterize the subgroups in question. T. 0. Hawkes has given an example in [4] which shows the cover-avoid property alone does not characterize F-normalizers in general. An example is given here which shows the cover-avoid property alone does not characterize the prefrattini subgroups. This answers a question raised by W. Gaschiitz in [2]. All groups considered are finite and solvgble. Notation and terminology not explicitly defined is standard.
Stimulation of 45CA efflux from rat lacrimal gland slices by carbachol and epinephrine

Abstract The effects of carbachol (10 −5 M) and epinephrine (10 −5 M) on efflux of 45 Ca from rat exorbital lacrimal gland slices were examined. Both carbachol and epinephrine stimulated a transient release of 45 Ca from the tissue. The quantity of Ca released was estimated to be of the order of 0.5 μmol/g. Release of 45 Ca by one agonist prevented subsequent release of 45 Ca by a different agonist. These data support the hypothesis put forth previously that in the lacrimal gland muscarinic or α-adrenergic receptor activation causes a transient increase in membrane permeability to K by triggering the release of a sizable intracellular pool of Ca common to both receptors.
Salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy: initial results and early report of outcomes

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the initial results of salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (SRARP) after recurrence following primary radiotherapy (RT) for localized prostate cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between December 2002 and January 2008, 11 patients had SRARP with pelvic lymph node dissection by one surgeon from one institution. Six patients had brachytherapy, three had external beam RT (EBRT), one intensity-modulated RT, and one received brachytherapy with an EBRT boost. All patients had prostate cancer on biopsy after RT, with negative computed tomography and bone scan. The mean (range) follow-up was 20.5 (1–77) months. RESULTS The mean interval from RT to SRARP was 53.2 months; the mean preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 5.2 ng/mL, the operative duration 183 min and the estimated blood loss 113 mL. One patient had prolonged lymphatic drainage, one had an anastomotic leak, and one had an anastomotic stricture requiring direct vision internal urethrotomy at 3 months. The mean duration of catheterization was 10.4 days and the hospital stay 1.4 days. Three patients had a biochemical recurrence, at 1, 2 and 43 months. In one of two patients with node-positive carcinoma of the prostate the PSA level failed to reach a nadir of zero after surgery. In patients with a minimum follow-up of 2 months, eight of 10 are continent (defined as zero to one pad per day) and two have erections adequate for intercourse with the use of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors. CONCLUSION SRARP after RT-resistant disease recurrence is feasible with minimal perioperative morbidity. Early functional outcomes appear to be at least equivalent with historical salvage RP series. Robotic extended pelvic lymph node dissection is safe and can improve the accuracy of surgical staging. A longer follow-up is necessary to better assess the functional and oncological outcomes.
The Belief in Personal Control Scale: A measure of God-mediated and exaggerated control.

Combining and extending previous conceptions of the construct of perceived control, a self-report measure based on a proposed multidimensional model was developed and validated. The Belief in Personal Control Scale (BPCS), measures of locus of control, depression, mania, anxiety, self-esteem, and social desirability were administered to several samples. A factor analysis revealed three interpretable components of the control construct: a general External Control factor, an Exaggerated Internal Control factor, and a God-Mediated Control factor. The results of this article provide preliminary support for the model and for the BPCS as a multidimensional measure of perceived control with reliable and valid subscales. Consistent with the proposed model of control, the three factors correlated differentially with the various measures of psychological adjustment. Of particular interest is the positive correlation between the Exaggerated Internal Control factor and a measure of mania.
Endophytes of fescue grasses enhance susceptibility of Popillia japonica larvae to an entomopathogenic nematode

We evaluated tritrophic level interactions among fungal endophytes (Acremonium spp.) of fescue grasses (Festuca spp.), the root-feeding Japanese beetle Popillia japonica Newman larvae, and the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar. Third-instar P. japonica larvae were introduced into pots containing endophyte-infected or endophyte-free plants of tall fescue Festuca arundinacea Schreber (cultivars Kentucky 31 and Georgia Jesup Improved) and the Chewings fescue Festuca rubra commutata Guad. (cultivars F-93 and Jamestown II). After two weeks, the surviving larvae were recovered, and their susceptibility to nematodes was evaluated in sand columns. Endophytes enhanced the rate of nematode-induced mortality in all cultivars except Georgia Jesup Improved, and increased the proportion of dead larvae with nematodes in all cultivars except Jamestown II. Endophytes in the cultivar Kentucky 31 were associated with improved nematode establishment in the larvae. No effect on nematode reproduction was found. Since endophytes produce biologically active alkaloids, we tested the effects of an ergot alkaloid, ergotamine tartrate, on the feeding behavior and weight of P. japonica larvae in agar medium. The alkaloid caused feeding deterrence, and reduced the consumption of medium by the larvae, resulting in weight loss. These larvae were more susceptible to H. bacteriophora than the untreated larvae. Unfed ‘starved’ larvae were more susceptible to nematodes than those fed on untreated agar. Our results support the hypothesis that endophyte-induced starvation of P. japonica would reduce larval vigor, and render them more susceptible to entomopathogenic nematodes.
Experimental results of a NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA)-based recentering beam-column connection

Abstract A half-scale interior beam-column connection incorporating superelastic nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (SMA) tendons was designed, fabricated, and tested to assess the feasibility of such a connection in a moment-resisting frame. This connection was compared to three other connections utilizing tendons made of steel, martensitic nickel–titanium, and superelastic nickel–titanium paralleled with aluminum. The connections with steel and martensitic nickel–titanium tendons rapidly lost their stiffness after being cycled beyond their elastic drift levels. The two tests with the superelastic nickel–titanium tendons showed significant recentering capabilities; they recovered a large portion of the post-elastic drift and showed promise for a material-based recentering moment connection. This novel connection was intended as a proof of concept that can be further developed in terms of practicality, ease of installation, and cost.
An interactive preference ordering model and its monte carlo evaluation

A computer-interactive preference ordering procedure that is based on assumed transitivity of relations is described. The procedure includes features that are designed to make it robust in the presence of inconsistency. With errorless data, the method will find the underlying order in close to log2n! comparisons. Two simulation studies are described where the responses are assumed to follow the Thurstone Case V model. It was found that the method produces orders that are more valid than does a considerably larger preselected subset of pairs.
Is the Stern Review an Economic Analysis

AbstractAlthough the Stern Review presents aggregate climate damages and abatement costs in dollars, in many ways it is not an economic analysis. First, and most importantly, it does not seek to mi...
Transfer RNA nucleotidyltransferase repairs all transfer RNAs randomly

Total Escherichia coli transfer RNA was converted to tRNA-C-C by periodate oxidation and partially repaired with either E. coli or rabbit liver tRNA nucleotidyltransferase. Aminoacylation of the partially repaired molecules indicated that individual tRNA species were each repaired to the same extent as the total population of molecules. These results support a non-specific, scavenger role for tRNA nucleotidyltransferase.
High prevalence of aeroallergen sensitization among infants of atopic parents

Objective To present methodology to identify atopic parents and determine the prevalence of sensitization to 15 aeroallergens in their infant offspring. Study design A birth cohort of infants was identified from birth records; an infant was enrolled if 1 of the parents reported allergy respiratory symptoms and had a positive skin prick test (SPT) to a common aeroallergen. At age 1 year, these infants were tested to the same aeroallergens. Results Of the 680 enrolled infants, 28.4% were SPT+ to 1 or more aeroallergens and/or food, and 18.0% were positive to 1 or more aeroallergens. By category of allergens, 9.7% were sensitized to pollens, 7.5% to molds, 4.3% to house dust mite and/or cockroach, and 3.4% to dog and/or cat. Of the infants who were positive to an aeroallergen, 65.7% remained positive at age 2 years. Conclusions Infants born to atopic parents with percutaneous sensitization to aeroallergens are at increased risk for aeroallergen sensitization during infancy, which persists to age 2 years. These findings suggest that current clinical practices, which generally avoid skin testing before age 2 years, be reassessed in this population of high-risk children.
The Relationship Between Radius of Drainage and Cumulative Production(includes associated papers 18561 and 18601 )

At least six radius-of-drainage formulas have been published. These formulas are reviewed and correlated on the basis of the fraction of net production for which each accounts. Numerical results are summarized in an equation for calculating the radius of drainage that corresponds to a given fraction of the net production.
Prolonged exposure to the candidate microbicide C31G differentially reduces cellular sensitivity to agent re-exposure

Comparative assays of in vitro cytotoxicity using nonoxynol-9 (N-9) and the candidate microbicides C31G and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) demonstrated that these agents, which are, respectively, characterized as nonionic, amphoteric, and anionic surfactants, differed in their concentration-dependent effects on cell viability, especially after prolonged exposure. We hypothesized that differences in cellular sensitivity may have been due, in part, to cellular changes induced by long-term exposure to each agent. To examine this possibility, HeLa cells were exposed to N-9, C31G, or SDS for extended periods of time and subsequently reassessed for sensitivity to each of these agents. Following 10 continuous days of C31G exposure, HeLa cells were less sensitive to a subsequent C31G exposure compared to cells that had not undergone long-term C31G treatment. Interestingly, long-term C31G exposure also changed subsequent sensitivity to N-9 but not SDS. In contrast, prolonged exposure to either N-9 or SDS did not reduce sensitivity to re-exposure. The effect of long-term C31G exposure was both concentration-dependent and transient, as treated cells reverted to pre-exposure sensitivity in a time-dependent manner following the cessation of C31G exposure. Lipid analyses of cells exposed to C31G for extended durations revealed altered phospholipid profiles relative to C31G-naive cells. Experiments examining the individual components of C31G demonstrated the involvement of the amine oxide moiety in reductions in cellular sensitivity. These studies, which provide new information concerning the cytotoxicity of surfactant microbicides, suggest that cervicovaginal epithelial cells may have greater in vivo tolerance for products containing C31G through unique interactions between C31G and components of the cellular membranes.
Concomitant Kienböck’s and Preiser’s Diseases: A Case Report

Reports of simultaneous carpal avascular necrosis in more than 1 bone are rare. This is a report of simultaneous Kienbock's disease and Preiser's disease in a 50-year-old woman with a remote history of steroid use but without a history of trauma or systemic illness.
Serviceberry [Amelanchier alnifolia (Nutt.) Nutt. ex. M. Roem (Rosaceae)] leaf extract inhibits mammalian α-glucosidase activity and suppresses postprandial glycemic response in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity and hyperglycemia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Serviceberry or Saskatoon berry [Amelanchier alnifolia (Nutt.) Nutt. ex. M. Roem (Rosaceae)], native to the North Glacier forests of the Rocky Mountains in Montana, has been used by the Blackfeet Indian tribe in alleviation of diabetes. Anecdotally, tea made from twigs and leaves have been used for optimum health and diabetes management. However, such traditional knowledge of the medicinal properties of Amelanchier alnifolia has not been validated by scientific studies. The goal of this study was to identify potential antidiabetic mechanisms of serviceberry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Serviceberry plant samples consisting of leaves, twigs, and leaves with berries were extracted and fractionated. Ethyl acetate and water fractions were tested for inhibition of α-glucosidase activity in vitro. Diet-induced obese, hyperglycemic C57Bl6 mice were administered serviceberry leaf extract prior to sucrose-, starch-, or glucose-loading to test for α-glucosidase inhibition and decreased post-prandial glycemic response. RESULTS: In the course of screening for potential antidiabetic mechanisms, serviceberry leaf extracts and subfractions demonstrated potent inhibitory activity against mammalian intestinal α-glucosidase activity (EC 3.2.1.20). Further, in an animal model of diet-induced obesity and hyperglycemia, serviceberry leaf subfraction demonstrated significant inhibition of intestinal α-glucosidase activity, and delayed the absorption of carbohydrates, resulting in significant lowering of post-prandial blood glucose concentrations, similar to the antidiabetic drug Acarbose™. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicating that serviceberry leaf extract may lower post-prandial glycemic response corroborate traditional knowledge of the Blackfeet Indians of Montana, and potentially offer a complementary approach in the treatment of diabetes.
Abstract 1769: Significant in vivo activity of an APE1/Ref-1 redox inhibitor, E3330, alone and in combination with Bevacizumab in a glioblastoma mouse model analyzed by a whole slide digital imaging system and quantitative immunohistochemistry

Human apurinic endonuclease/redox factor 1 (APE1/Ref-1) mediates the repair of baseless sites in DNA caused by alkylation and oxidative DNA damage as well as regulates the function of various transcription factors (TF) under redox signaling control (p53, NFkB, HIF-1, AP-1, and others). High levels of APE1 expression have been reported in numerous cancers (glioblastoma, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and others) such that APE1 is an emerging target for a variety of novel anticancer drugs. E3330 targets the redox signaling function of APE1 and its activity was studied in vivo using a glioblastoma xenograft mouse model. This preclinical xenograft model evaluated the use of dual anti-angiogenic agents, Bevacizumab (Bev) and E3330, in glioblastoma implanted Nude mice. Four mice groups were used to determine drug effects: E3330, Bev, a combination of E3330 and Bev, and an untreated vehicle control group. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to predict the effectiveness of treatment for glioblastoma based on caspase-3, Ki67, and CD31 biomarker expression. IHC slides were quantified using both a traditional pathology hand count and an image system analysis. The positive pixel data closely mirrored the hand count for all three biomarkers. At the combined dosage, hand count data demonstrated that CD31 levels decreased significantly from the vehicle control group. Ki67 decreased slightly, and caspase-3 was not increased in any of the drug treatment groups. While each drug independently had anti-angiogenic effects, the combined drug group, E3330 and Bev, had anti-angiogenic effects that were greatly enhanced. These results support previous studies demonstrating the anti-angiogenic activity of E3330 and its enhancement of Bevacizumab. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1769. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1769
Simultaneous 1310/1550 dual-band swept laser source and fiber-based dual-band common-path swept source optical coherence tomography

A simultaneous two wavelength band swept laser source and a fiber-based dual-band common-path swept source optical coherence tomography is reported. Simultaneous 1310/1550 dual-wavelength tuning is performed by using two fiber-ring cavities with corresponding optical semiconductor amplifier as their gain mediums and two narrowband optical filters with a single dual-window polygonal scanner. Measured average output powers of 60 mW and 27 mW have been achieved for 1310 and 1550 nm bands, respectively, while the two wavelengths were swept simultaneously from 1227 nm to 1387 nm for 1310 nm band and from 1519 nm to 1581 nm for 1550 nm band at an A-scan rate of 65 kHz. A broadband 1310/1550 wavelength-division multiplexing is used for coupling two wavelengths into a common-path single-mode GRIN-lensed fiber probe to form a dual-band common-path swept-source optical coherence tomography. Simultaneous OCT imaging at 1310 and 1550 nm is achieved by using a depth ratio correction method. This technique allows potentially for in vivo endoscopic high-speed functional OCT imaging with high quality spectroscopic contrast with low computational costs. On the other hand, the common path configuration is able to reject common mode noise and potentially implement high stability quantitative phase measurements.
Bloodstream Infection, Venous Thrombosis, and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: Reappraising the Evidence

The widespread use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) has transformed the care of medical and surgical patients. Whereas intravenous antibiotics, parenteral nutrition, and administration of chemotherapy once necessitated prolonged hospitalization, PICCs have eliminated the need for such practice. However, PICCs may not be as innocuous as once thought; a growing body of evidence suggests that these devices also have important risks. This review discusses the origin of PICCs and highlights reasons behind their rapid adoption in medical practice. We evaluate the evidence behind 2 important PICC-related complications—venous thrombosis and bloodstream infections—and describe how initial studies may have led to a false sense of security with respect to these outcomes. In this context, we introduce a conceptual model to understand the risk of PICC-related complications and guide the use of these devices. Through this model, we outline recommendations that clinicians may use to prevent PICC-related adverse events. We conclude by highlighting important knowledge gaps and identifying avenues for future research in this area.
Plasma flow over an array of particles

Abstract This paper presents an analysis of heat and momentum transport to an array of particles from a flow of a collision-dominated weakly ionized gas consisting of electrons, ions, and neutrals. The particle longitudinal and lateral spacing is varied independently to study the effect of particle spacing on the flow and heat transport. The conservation equations for mass, momentum, and energy for the neutrals and those for ions and electrons are solved simultaneously with the Poisson’s equation for the self-consistent electric field. Solutions are obtained using a finite volume method and the formulation is based on a cylindrical-cell model. An orthogonal adaptive grid is generated to body-fit the particle surfaces as well as the cylindrical outer boundary of the cell envelop. The flow field and the temperature distributions are obtained in the plasma and the overall Nusselt number and the drag force acting on each particle are determined. Results indicate that the flow and transport around a given particle is significantly influenced by the presence of the neighboring particles. An increase in the lateral spacing between particles results in a decrease in the Nusselt number as well as the drag coefficient, whereas increasing longitudinal particle spacing leads to an increase in both the Nusselt number and the drag coefficient. The effect of side particles becomes negligible for lateral spacings greater than about five diameters. However, the influence of upstream particles remains significant even at longitudinal particle spacing of five diameters. Correlations that incorporate the effects due to neighboring particles have been proposed for the drag coefficient and the Nusselt number of an interior particle in the array.
Origins of Convective Variability over Equatorial Southern Africa during Austral Summer

Abstract Analysis of NOAA/NESS outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) over the greater Africa region reveals a large area of low OLR (5°–20°S, 20°E–40°E) during three austral summers (November through February; 1982/83, 1983/84 and 1984/85). This low OLR area is consistent with the climatological rainy area and persistent convective activity. Using OLR as a proxy for synoptic and large-scale cloudiness and convection, OLR standard deviations are computed for the three summers. Highest OLR variability is observed across Africa along 15–17°S, which is about five degrees latitude south of the OLR minimum. Based on the region of maximum OLR standard deviations and minimum mean OLR, a box-average OLR index is derived. Time series of the OLR index for November through February indicate large (±40 W m−2), aperiodic OLR fluctuations within each of the three summers. Outgoing longwave radiation composites are constructed for periods of large OLR changes from negative OLR anomalies (wet conditions) to positive OLR anoma...
The role and relevance of the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised in court: A case law survey of U.S. courts (1991-2004).

The Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL–R; R. D. Hare, 1991, 2003) is the most empirically validated instrument for measuring psychopathy in correctional and forensic psychiatric populations. The PCL–R’s predictive utility with criminal justice populations has led to its frequent use by clinicians conducting forensic assessments in criminal and sexually violent predator (SVP) cases. Despite its apparent wide acceptance in U.S. courts, little is known about how often the PCL–R is being introduced, the types of cases in which it is being used, and whether claims made in court regarding psychopathy are empirically defensible and/or relevant to the question at hand. This project documents some uses of the PCL–R in U.S. courts from 1991 through 2004 by year, jurisdiction, type of evaluation, and party. The results suggest that the PCL–R is being used by expert witnesses with increasing regularity across U.S. jurisdictions, primarily to assess risk of future violence. A review of 3 recent cases is also provided that illustrates concerns about the validity of the PCL–R for certain types of legal questions that may arise in criminal and SVP trials.
Relationship of prior custody loss to maternal–fetal bonding in a subsequent pregnancy

Abstract Maternal–fetal bonding is the emotional investment a woman has for her fetus and is the foundation for nurturance and protection. Effects of prior custody loss on bonding during a subsequent pregnancy have received scant attention but may resemble other reproductive losses. This study compares the strength of the maternal–fetal bond among women grouped according to lifetime history of custody loss. Sixty-seven pregnant women with a history of giving birth were assigned to either a Loss (13.4%) or Non-Loss (86.6%) group. They were administered a demographic questionnaire and standardized measures of maternal–fetal bonding, substance use, perceived social support, depressive symptoms, and economic status. The Loss group endorsed more pregnancies, more abortions, living with fewer children, less social support, and illicit drug use during the third trimester. The Loss group endorsed a stronger maternal–fetal bond compared to women in Non-Loss group. Multivariate analyses were exploratory due to the small sample size but suggest that pregnant women who have experienced one custody loss may differ from those who have experienced multiple custody losses. Future research with a larger sample is needed to examine the direction of the relationship between prior custody loss and maternal bonding to a subsequent fetus.
Polarization Lidar at Summit, Greenland, for the Detection of Cloud Phase and Particle Orientation

Accurate measurements of cloud properties are necessary to document the full range of cloud conditions and characteristics. The Cloud, Aerosol Polarization and Backscatter Lidar (CAPABL) has been developed to address this need by measuring depolarization, particle orientation, and the backscatter of cloudsandaerosols.Thelidar islocated at Summit,Greenland(72.68N, 38.58W; 3200 m MSL), as part of the Integrated Characterization of Energy, Clouds, Atmospheric State, and Precipitation at Summit Project and NOAA’s Earth System Research Laboratory’s Global Monitoring Division’s lidar network. Here, the instrument is described with particular emphasis placed upon the implementation of new polarization methods developed to measure particle orientation and improve the overall accuracy of lidar depolarization measurements. Initial results from the lidar are also shown to demonstrate the ability of the lidar to observe cloud properties.
STUDIES ON HYPOALBUMINEMIA PRODUCED BY PROTEIN-DEFICIENT DIETS : II. RAPID CORRECTION OF HYPOALBUMINEMIA WITH AN AD LIBITUM MEAT DIET.

Serum albumin depletion, induced by a 3 weeks fast, was completely corrected within 1 week by the ingestion of a diet consisting solely of meat administered ad libitum. The average protein intake was 50 gm. per kilo of body weight per day. A 2nd week of the same diet produced no further increase in serum albumin though it did lead to an increase in the globulin fraction.
Studies of methoxymethyl-directed metalation

Abstract To explore the use of methoxymethyl groups to elaborate simple benzenoid precursors to more complex polyketide-derived natural products, the reaction of phenolmetoxymethyl ether ortho -anion was investigated with a number of electrophiles.
Dispositional optimism as a predictor of depressive symptoms over time

Abstract Although dispositional optimism has often been negatively associated with depressive symptoms, some researchers have found that its predictive power is eliminated after controlling for broader constructs such as neuroticism. However, the majority of such research has relied on cross-sectional data and has not included measures of self-reported stress (i.e. daily hassles). This study of 190 college students investigated the ability of a revised measure of dispositional optimism to predict depressive symptoms over a 10 week period. Participants also completed measures of negative and positive affect, daily hassles, and attributional style. Multiple regression analyses revealed dispositional optimism as a significant predictor of future depressive symptoms even after the effects of time 1 levels of depressive symptoms, negative affect, positive affect, daily hassles, and a hassles×positive affect interaction were controlled.
Characteristics of MOSFETs fabricated in silicon-on-insulator material formed by high-dose oxygen ion implantation

By implanting a dose of 6×1017 cm?2 of 32O at 300 keV into a silicon wafer, a buried oxide layer is formed. Crystallinity of the silicon layer above the buried oxide layer is maintained by applying a high (>200°C) substrate temperature during the ion implantation process. A two-step anneal cycle is found to be adequate to form the insulating buried oxide layer and to repair the implantation damage in the silicon layer on top of the buried oxide. A surface electron mobility as high as 710 cm2/Vs has been measured in n-channel MOSFETs fabricated in a 0.5 ?m-thick epitaxial layer grown on the buried oxide wafer. A minimum subthreshold current of about 10 pA per micron of channel width at VDS=2 V has been measured.
Thunderstorms and sporadic-E layer ionization over Ottawa, Canada

Abstract Vertical incidence ionospheric sounding records at Ottawa during the passage of isolated thunderstorms in 1959 are studied. During thunderstorms, an increase ƒE s and an increase in the number of multiple radio reflections from the Es are detected. These effects are suggestive of a relationship between the occurrence of thunderstorms and the ionization in the sporadic-E region of the ionosphere.
Cosmic strings as orbifolds

Abstract We construct string theory versions of cosmic strings by considering orbifold compactifications of spacetime down to two dimensions.
Techniques for semi-empirical characterization of material and sensor properties in interdigital dielectrometry

Interdigital frequency-wavenumber dielectrometry can be used for measurement of dielectric properties of insulating materials. It is not always possible to adequately model distributed circuit parameters of the sensor structure. Even in cases when the forward problem can be solved, that is, the distribution of electric field can be calculated using numerical techniques, it may not be suitable for the solution of the inverse problem due to the high sensitivity of the parameter estimation algorithms to variations in circuit and material parameters as well as nonideality in the models due to finite size of the sensor, fringing field effects, and lead effects. This paper particularly shows the advantage of changing the function of the conducting plane beneath the interdigital electrode structure from a ground plane to a guard electrode that follows the sensing electrode voltage. The techniques presented in this paper build a bridge between idealized models of interdigital structures and real measurements. Employment of such techniques allows experimental calibration of the sensor, verification of the intermediate steps in the process of development of parameter estimation algorithms, and provide data necessary for improvement of experimental arrangements.
Mathematical model for chemotherapeutic drug efficacy in arresting tumour growth based on the cancer stem cell hypothesis

Objective : Cancer stem cells have been identified as the growth root for various malignant tumours and are thought to be responsible for cancer recurrence following treatment. Materials and methods : Here, a predictive mathematical model for the cancer stem cell hypothesis is used to understand tumour responses to chemo- therapeutic drugs and judge the efficacy of treatments in arresting tumour growth. The impact of varying drug efficacies on different abnormal cell populations is investigated through the kinetics associated with their decline in response to therapy. Results and conclusions : The model predicts the clinically established 'dandelion phenomenon' and suggests that the best response to chemotherapy occurs when a drug targets abnormal stem cells. We compare continuous and periodic drug infusion. For the latter, we examine the relative importance of the drug cell-kill rate and the mean time between successive therapies, to identify the key attributes for successful treatment.
Maternal smoking, alcohol drinking, and febrile convulsion

Summary Background Previous studies have suggested that maternal cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking during pregnancy may increase risk for febrile convulsion during childhood. We evaluated the relationship of maternal smoking, alcohol drinking, and their interaction on febrile convulsion. Method Pregnant women ( n =10,108) enrolled in the Child Health and Development Studies in California between 1959 and 1966 were interviewed about their habits during pregnancy and febrile convulsions of the child were ascertained soon after an event. Results Febrile convulsions were reported in 2.9% of children of mothers who both smoked and drank alcohol, 2.0% for children of mothers who smoked but did not drink, 1.5% for children of mothers who drank but did not smoke and 2.1% of children of mothers who neither smoked nor drank. After adjusting for covariates, children of smokers who did not drink and children of drinkers who did not smoke did not have a significant hazard for febrile convulsion, compared to children of non-smokers non-drinkers. However, children of smokers who drank had a 30% increased hazard of febrile convulsion (95% CI=1.0, 1.9). The interaction term for smoking and alcohol drinking was significant in the multivariable model ( p =0.02). Conclusion These results suggest that children of mothers who both smoke and drink alcohol during pregnancy may have a higher risk for febrile convulsions.
Aperture Engineering for Impulse Radiating Antennas

The past several years have seen the development of an improved understanding of the role of aperture design for impulse radiating antennas (IRAs). The understanding began with the emergence of the concept of prompt aperture efficiency for ultra-wideband (UWB) antennas. This emergence allowed us to concentrate on ways to shape the aperture and control the field distribution within the aperture in order to maximize the prompt response from IRAs. In many high voltage UWB applications it is impossible to increase the radiated fields by increasing the source power. This is because in such instances the sources are already at the limits of linear electromagnetics. In these cases, we would like to come up with methods to improve the radiated field without altering the input impedance of the IRA. In this paper we will explore several such methods including the position of the feed arms to maximize field uniformity, the shaping of the aperture to increase radiated fields by reducing the aperture size, the relative sizing of the reflector (or lens) and the feed horn, and actually reorienting the currents on the reflector by controlling the direction of current flow. One common thread appears in all of these studies, that is the influence of Dr. Carl Baum on the direction and development of the work.
Rethinking Colonial Categories: European Communities and the Boundaries of Rule

In 1945, Bronislaw Malinowski urged anthropology to abandon what he called its “one-column entries” on African societies and to study instead the “no-man's land of change,” to attend to the “aggressive and conquering” European communities as well as native ones, and to be aware that “European interests and intentions” were rarely unified but more often “at war” (1945:14–15). Four decades later, few of us have heeded his prompting or really examined his claim.
Rewriting nested XML queries using nested views

We present and analyze an algorithm for equivalent rewriting of XQuery queries using XQuery views, which is complete for a large class of XQueries featuring nested FLWR blocks, XML construction and join equalities by value and identity. These features pose significant challenges which lead to fundamental extension of prior work on the problems of rewriting conjunctive and tree pattern queries. Our solution exploits the Nested XML Tableaux (NEXT) notation which enables a logical foundation for specifying XQuery semantics. We present a tool which inputs XQuery queries and views and outputs an XQuery rewriting, thus being usable on top of any of the existing XQuery processing engines. Our experimental evaluation shows that the tool scales well for large numbers of views and complex queries.
India's immortal comic books: gods, kings and other heroes

In India's Immortal Comic Books: Gods, Kings and Other Heroes, author Karline McLain explores the popular Indian comic series Amar Chitra Katha (ACK). Founded in 1967, India's first and most popula...
Alternate forms of the PWM switch model in discontinuous conduction mode [DC-DC converters]

A pulsewidth-modulated (PWM) DC-DC converter enters discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) as its inductor current attempts to reverse direction, but cannot do so because of switch implementation, and remains at zero in the last interval of each switching period. Three equivalent three-terminal nonlinear transformers are described as the models for the PWM switch in a DCM converter, each having one of the three terminals serving as the common terminal. Each model facilitates the analysis of those corresponding converters in which the PWM switch terminal corresponds to the common transformer terminal is DC-grounded. Examples are given to demonstrate how the models are used to derive the DCM criteria, and the ideal and nonideal voltage gains for the buck-boost, buck, and boost DC-DC converters. The results predicted by the models agree with those reported and verified in the literature.