cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recent trends in pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious and unrelenting pulmonary vascular disorder that affects the functional quality of patients and significantly decreases their life span. If diagnosed early, with the number of new therapeutic options that are available, a better quality of life can be provided for a protracted length of time. It is likely that the available treatment will change the natural course of the disease and perhaps prolong survival. As symptoms are often subtle in the early stages of the disease it is imperative that physicians are aware of the manifestations of this condition. A thorough investigation of patients suspected of this condition is essential so that appropriate treatment can be initiated promptly. The routine workup of a patient suspected to have pulmonary hypertension could easily be carried out in any well-equipped peripheral hospital in many affluent and advanced countries. However, it must be mentioned that in some less advanced countries the necessary work up can only be done in major teaching hospitals. Both pulmonologists and cardiologists should be aware of the pathophysiology of pulmonary arterial hypertension, the workup and the treatment options that are available. Patients with refractory pulmonary hypertension should be referred to these research centers for enrolment into any ongoing drug trials as well as for evaluation for heart−lung, single lung, or double lung transplantation. This paper is primarily aimed at pulmonologists and cardiologists taking care of these patients. Unless indicated otherwise this paper mainly deals with WHO group 1 pulmonary hypertension which is designated pulmonary arterial hypertension. Extensive review of the literature spanning the last 30 years was made through Medline using titles such as primary pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, secondary pulmonary hypertension, and pulmonary vascular diseases.
Optimal, Model-Based Design of Soft Robotic Manipulators

Soft robotic manipulators, unlike their rigid-linked counterparts, deform continuously along their lengths similar to elephant trunks and octopus arms. Their excellent dexterity enables them to navigate through unstructured and cluttered environments and to handle fragile objects using whole arm manipulation. This paper develops optimal designs for OctArm manipulators, i.e., multisection, trunklike soft arms. OctArm manipulator design involves the specification of air muscle actuators and the number, length, and configuration of sections that maximize dexterity and load capacity for a given maximum actuation pressure. A general method of optimal design for OctArm manipulators using nonlinear models of the actuators and arm mechanics is developed. The manipulator model is based on Cosserat rod theory, accounts for large curvatures, extensions, and shear strains, and is coupled to the nonlinear Mooney-Rivlin actuator model. Given a dexterity constraint for each section, a genetic algorithm-based optimizer maximizes the arm load capacity by varying the actuator and section dimensions. The method generates design rules that simplify the optimization process. These rules are then applied to the design of pneumatically and hydraulically actuated OctArm manipulators using 100 psi and 1000 psi maximum pressures, respectively.
High-throughput peptide identification from protein digests using data-dependent multiplexed tandem FTICR mass spectrometry coupled with capillary liquid chromatography

Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) plays an important role in the unambiguous identification and structural elucidation of biomolecules. In contrast to conventional MS/MS approaches for protein identification where an individual polypeptide is sequentially selected and dissociated, a multiplexed-MS/MS approach increases throughput by selecting several peptides for simultaneous dissociation using either infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) or multiple frequency sustained off-resonance irradiation (SORI) collisionally induced dissociation (CID). The high mass measurement accuracy and resolution of FTICR combined with knowledge of peptide dissociation pathways allows the fragments arising from several different parent ions to be assigned. Herein we report the application of multiplexed-MS/MS coupled with on-line separations for the identification of peptides present in complex mixtures (i.e., whole cell lysate digests). Software was developed to enable "on-the-fly" data-dependent peak selection of a subset of polypeptides from each FTICR MS acquisition. In the subsequent MS/MS acquisitions, several coeluting peptides were fragmented simultaneously using either IRMPD or SORI-CID techniques. The utility of this approach has been demonstrated using a bovine serum albumin tryptic digest separated by capillary LC where multiple peptides were readily identified in single MS/MS acquisitions. We also present initial results from multiplexed-MS/MS analysis of a D. radiodurans whole cell digest to illustrate the utility of this approach for high-throughput analysis of a bacterial proteome.
Concurrent Undergraduate and Preclinical Education

In order to integrate medical and nonmed ical education, the University of Rochester recently established a so-called Early Selec tion Program. Students are chosen after their sophomore year and spend the next four years concurrently enrolled in undergraduate and preclinical courses. An initial assessment of the first three cohorts (25 students) shows that they perform success fully in both their undergraduate and medical school coursework. In their nonmedical courses the Early Selection students achieve slightly greater depth and less breadth than two comparison groups of "regular" premedical students.
Automatic Real-Time Endocardial Edge Detection in Two-Dimensional Echocardiography:

Previous approaches to automatic border recognition in two-dimensional echocardiography have utilized off-line computer image analysis. In this paper, we describe a hardware technique for real-time endocardial edge detection during the echocardiographic examination. This technique is based on a new method of line-by-line compensation for ultrasound attenuation. The detected edges and composite edge images can be displayed alone or superimposed upon the usual echocardiographic display. To test the accuracy of our real-time technique, we obtained echocardiograms of excised hearts and compared real-time edges with edges manually traced by an experienced observer. Left ventricular cavity areas and endocardial perimeters derived from real-time edges correlated well with those derived from observer-defined edges.
Cytokines, cytokine antagonists, and soluble adhesion molecules in pediatric OMS and other neuroinflammatory disorders

Abstract Objective To test for hypothesized disease- and treatment-induced changes in cytokines and adhesion molecules in children with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS). Methods Multiplex bead assay technology was used for simultaneous measurement of 34 soluble cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum. Soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) were measured by ELISA. In total, there were 388 children (239 OMS, 114 controls, and 35 other inflammatory neurological disorders (OIND)). Results In untreated OMS, mean CSF IL-6 was elevated 2.3-fold, but 67-fold in OIND, without significant differences in other CSF cytokines. Mean serum concentrations of sIL-2Ra (+ 50%) and CXCL1 (+ 70%) (p Conclusions Novel cytokine, cytokine antagonist, and soluble adhesion molecule abnormalities due to OMS or treatment were found. However, the normality of much of the data strengthens previous findings implicating B cell mechanisms.
Studies in Neotropical Burseraceae. II. Generic limits in New World Protieae and Canarieae

Trattinnickia is closely related toDacryodes and is transferred to the tribe Canarieae. Additional characters are proposed to supplement the weak characters that traditionally have been used to separateCrepidospermum andTetragastris fromProtium. The assumed “intermediate” genusParaprotium is shown to be an unnatural assemblage and is here merged withProtium. This revised concept of generic limits in the Neotropical Protieae and Canarieae leads to the following new combinations:Tetragastris occhionii (Rizzini) Daly,Protium pilosum (Cuatrec.) Daly,Protium nitidifolium (Cuatrec.) Daly,Protium vestitum (Cuatrec.) Daly, andDacryodes cuspidata (Cuatrec.) Daly. A key to the Neotropical genera of Burseraceae is provided.
Here Comes the Bride: An Ethnographic Content Analysis of Bridal Books

Weddings are the most common ritual used to mark a change in a person's relationship status. Engaged couples in the United States are inundated with messages about how to plan this significant event. Weddings serve as rites of passage and assist in role transitions. When preparing for a wedding, many couples turn to wedding planning books. It is important for professionals who work with couples, particularly premarital couples, to be aware of the messages that are given in wedding planning books. The purpose of this research was to examine advice in wedding books targeted to brides in terms of gender and creating healthy relationships. Wedding books were analyzed from a feminist lens and the overarching themes that emerged are: Women in Weddings, Men in Weddings, Relationship Advice, Changes in Weddings, and Looks are Important. The primary finding of this research is that the advice given to engaged couples maintains and promotes inequality in the planning of this important ritual.
Interstitial microwave hyperthermia and brachytherapy for malignancies of the vulva and vagina. I: Design and testing of a modified intracavitary obturator.

Abstract A vaginal obturator was fabricated to be used in combination with implanted catheters to provide microwave hyperthermia and brachytherapy to the vulva and vaginal wall. This site is difficult to heat or irradiate solely with interstitial techniques. The obturator was modified to provide grooves for the mounting of interstitial catheters into the outer wall and was matched with a template for circumferential implants. Power deposition tests were done using arrays of three microwave antenna designs: dipole (h A = h B = 3.9 cm), helical (3.9 cm coil, shorted), and modified dipole (1.0 cm helix on dipole tip) to test the performance of the obturator. The obturator and four non-obturator catheters were positioned in muscle-equivalent phantom. Two obturator catheters along with two free-standing catheters formed the obturator array. Four freestanding catheters formed the non-obturator array. Power deposition or specific absorption rate (SAR) measurements were made along the central axis, bisect, and diagonal transect of each array. SAR results showed that antennas in the obturator wall radiated as dipole theory predicts, although with less power density when compared to antennas in the same catheters spaced 1.8 cm from the obturator. This could be compensated for by increasing the power to the antennas in the obturator by 42%. Adjacent pairs of antennas were placed 90° out of phase for 0.25 sec and rotated around the array. Phase rotation demonstrated that the central array SAR peaks could be lowered from 100% to 50% SAR, with dipole antennas thus resulting in lowered peak temperatures and the ability to heat larger volumes by improving the distribution of power. With helical antennas, there was 50% SAR at the array center when operated coherently without phase rotation. Three patients were treated with the obturator and a custom-made template using dipole antennas, and temperatures were measured in five obturator catheters. Therapeutic heating was measured in the catheters on the obturator between antennas in contact with the vaginal mucosa.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Children

The surgical management of pediatric stone disease has evolved significantly over the last three decades. Prior to the introduction of shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) in the 1980s, open lithotomy was the lone therapy for children with upper tract calculi. Since then, SWL has been the procedure of choice in most pediatric centers for children with large renal calculi. While other therapies such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) were also being advanced around the same time, PNL was generally seen as a suitable therapy in adults because of the concerns for damage in the developing kidney. However, recent advances in endoscopic instrumentation and renal access techniques have led to an increase in its use in the pediatric population, particularly in those children with large upper tract stones. This paper is a review of the literature focusing on the indications, techniques, results, and complications of PNL in children with renal calculi.
Irradiation of cotton in RF plasmas containing nitrogen and hydrogen

Abstract Radiofrequency (RF) plasmas of nitrogen and hydrogen in various proportions were used to modify cotton fabric. Changes in surface characteristics were measured by electron emission spectroscopy for chemical analyses (ESCA), chemiluminescence (CL), electron spin resonance (ESR), and multiple internal reflectance infra-red spectroscopy (MIR). The effects of duration of irradiation location in the reactor, and RF power level were investigated. Analyses showed that locations downstream from the electrodes, but still in the glow region, were most suitable for formation of nitrogenous films. Samples located between the electrodes underwent the greatest amounts of surface oxidation regardless of molar ratio of nitrogen to hydrogen in the plasma.
Improving flood frequency analysis with more information

Flood frequency estimates can be improved by combining local flood data with three additional types of information, Viglione et al. show. The authors combined local flood data with temporal information on historic floods, spatial information on floods in nearby catchments, and causal information on the flood process. Previous studies combined flood data with only one additional type of information.
Local structure of In0.5Ga0.5As from joint high-resolution and differential pair distribution function analysis

High resolution total and indium differential atomic pair distribution functions (PDFs) for In0.5Ga0.5As alloys have been obtained by high energy and anomalous x-ray diffraction experiments, respectively. The first peak in the total PDF is resolved as a doublet due to the presence of two distinct bond lengths, In–As and Ga–As. The In differential PDF, which involves only atomic pairs containing In, yields chemical specific information and helps ease the structure data interpretation. Both PDFs have been fit with structure models and the way in that the underlying cubic zinc-blende lattice of In0.5Ga0.5As semiconductor alloy distorts locally to accommodate the distinct In–As and Ga–As bond lengths present has been quantified.
Synthesis and characterization of novel thiol-reactive poly(ethylene glycol) cross-linkers for extracellular-matrix-mimetic biomaterials

Synthetic extracellular matrix hydrogels can be used for three-dimensional cell culture, wound repair, and tissue engineering. Using the bifunctional electrophile poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (...
Seafloor hydrothermal activity and spreading rates: the eocene carbon dioxide greenhouse revisited

A suggestion has been made that enhanced rates of hydrothermal activity during the Eocene could have caused a global warming by adding calcium to the ocean and pumping CO2 into the atmosphere (Owen and Rea, 1984). This phenomenon was purported to be consistent with the predictions of the CO2 geochemical cycle model of Berner, Lasaga and Garrels (1983) (henceforth BLAG). In fact, however, the BLAG model predicts only a weak connection between hydrothermal activity and atmospheric CO2 levels. By contrast, it predicts a strong correlation between seafloor spreading rates and pCO2, since the release rate of CO2 from carbonate metamorphism is assumed to be proportional to the mean spreading rate. The Eocene warming can be conveniently explained if the BLAG model is extended by assuming that the rate of carbonate metamorphism is also proportional to the total length of the midocean ridges from which the spreading originates.
A comparison of creatinine vs. specific gravity to correct for urinary dilution of cotinine

Context: The validity of urinary correction standards has not been established for most analytes. Methods: We compared urinary creatinine and specific gravity as dilution correction standards for cotinine in a community-based study of smokers.Results: Models of blood cotinine regressed against CR or SG (measured by total soluble solids) significantly improved the fit compared to a model without a dilution measure (P < 0.01). There were no differences in model fit between CR- and SG-corrected values. Both CR and SG were significant predictors of urinary cotinine regressed against cigarettes smoked per day (P < 0.01). Conclusion: CR and SG are valid and interchangeable correction standards.
Semisiple localizations and v-rings

(1988). Semisiple localizations and v-rings. Communications in Algebra: Vol. 16, No. 8, pp. 1673-1688.
Determination of molindone enantiomers in human plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry using macrocyclic antibiotic chiral stationary phases.

Abstract A sensitive and selective bioanalytical assay was developed and validated for the determination of enantiomeric molindone in human plasma using high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry along with supported liquid extraction procedures. The chiral separation was evaluated and optimized on macrocyclic antibiotic type chiral stationary phases (CSPs) based on teicoplanin aglycone (Chirobiotic TAG) in polar organic, polar ionic, and reversed-phase mode chromatography, respectively. Complete baseline separation was achieved on a Chirobiotic TAG column under isocratic condition in reversed-phase chromatography. The method validation was conducted using a Chirobiotic TAG column (100 mm × 2.1 mm) over the curve range 0.100–100 ng/ml for each molindone enantiomer using 0.0500 ml of plasma sample. The flow rate was 0.8 ml/min and the total run time was 9 min. Supported liquid extraction in a 96-well plate format was used for sample preparation. Parameters including recovery, matrix effect, linearity, sensitivity, specificity, carryover, precision, accuracy, dilution integrity, and stability were evaluated. The intra- and inter-day precision and accuracy of the quality control samples at low, medium, and high concentration levels were RSD ≤3.4% and relative error (RE) ≤4.2% for molindone enantiomer 1, and RSD ≤2.6% and RE ≤5.0% for molindone enantiomer 2, respectively. This validated method could be used for the determination of individual molindone enantiomer in human plasma samples from clinical studies.
Neutrophil storage pool depletion in neonates with sepsis and neutropenia

8. Pokora T, Bing D, Mammel M, et al. Neonatal highfrequency jet ventilation. Pediatrics 1983;72:27-32. 9. Carlon TC, Kahn RC, Howland WS, et al. Clinical experience with high-frequency jet ventilation. Crit Care Med 1981;9:1-6. 10. Cilley RE, Zwischenberger JB, Andrews AF, et al. Intracranial hemorrhage during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in neonates. Pediatrics 1986;78:699-704. 11. Andrews AF, Nixon CA, Cilley RE, et al. One to three year outcome for 14 neonatal survivors of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Pediatrics 1986;78:692-8. 12. Ortiz RM, Cilley RE, Bartlett RH. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in pediatric respiratory failure. Pediatr Clin North Am 1987;34:39-46. 13. Gilbert R, Keighley JF. The arterial/alveolar oxygen tension ratio: An index of gas exchange applicable to varying inspired oxygen concentrations. Am Rev Respir Dis 1974;109:142-5. 14. Bader D, Ramos AD, Lew CD, et al. Childhood sequelae of infant lung disease: ExerciSe and pulmonary function abnormalities after bronchopulmonary dysplasia. J PEDIATR 1987;110:693-9. 15. Winter PM, Smith G. The toxicity of oxygen. Anesthesiology 1972;37:210-40.
Two-Photon Excitation, Hyper-Raman Scattering, And Excited State Decay Processes For Polyenes In Free Jet Expansions

High resolution emission spectra, 1-photon and 2-photon excitation spectra, vibronic level decay times and saturation behavior have been measured for the polyenes diphenylbutadiene and diphenylhexatriene seeded in supersonic helium expansions. For isolated diphenylbutadiene hyper-Raman scattering enhanced by 2-photon resonances has also been observed. Take together with spectroscopic studies of the static vapors, these data provide a detailed picture of the nature of the most probable intramolecular excited state decay processes as a function of vibronic energy for these flexible molecules.
STEREOCONTROLLED PREPARATION OF PRECURSORS TO ALL PRIMARY PROSTAGLANDINS FROM BUTADIENE

Abstract Four key precursors to the primary prostaglandins have been prepared in efficient fashion from butadiene. In addition to its simplicity, the new approach capitalizes on the pivotal role of a single precursor molecule, allows for early resolution, and results in placement of four contiguous chiral centers about a cyclopentane ring without initial benefit of a stereodirecting group. Butadiene is cyclodimerized to cis2-1,5-cyclooctadiene which is transformed in four steps to cis3-1,4,7-cyclononatriene. Monoepoxidation and base-promoted ring opening of this medium ring hydrocarbon gives cis3-2,4,7-cyclononatrien-l-ol which isomerizes exclusively to aldehyde 8 in the presence of potassium hydride at room temperature. The derived carboxylic acid is easily resolved and iodolactonized to 2, the key intermediate from which 1, 19, 21, and 22 are readily obtainable in few laboratory steps.
Endoscopic Polypectomy Using Endocautery in Three Dogs and One Cat

Endoscopic polypectomy has long been employed in humans with either gastric or colonic polyps. Despite the frequency of use in humans, reports in veterinary medicine remain scarce. The medical records of three dogs and one cat were reviewed. Two animals that were presented with hematochezia underwent colonoscopic polypectomy and were clinically normal 22 months and 6 months postpolypectomy. One animal that was presented with chronic vomiting underwent gastric polypectomy and was clinically normal 21 months postpolypectomy. One animal with an incidentally discovered gastric polyp underwent polypectomy without complication. Endoscopic polypectomy may be a viable alternative to surgery in veterinary patients with gastric or colonic polyps.
Surveillance and ascertainment of cardiovascular events: The Cardiovascular Health Study☆

While previous prospective multicenter studies have conducted cardiovascular disease surveillance, few have detailed the techniques relating to the ascertainment of and data collection for events. The Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS) is a population-based study of coronary heart disease and stroke in older adults. This article summarizes the CHS events protocol and describes the methods of surveillance and ascertainment of hospitalized and nonhospitalized events, the use of medical records and other support documents, organizational issues at the field center level, and the classification of events through an adjudication process. We present data on incidence and mortality, the classification of adjudicated events, and the agreement between classification by the Events Subcommittee and the medical records diagnostic codes. The CHS techniques are a successful model for complete ascertainment, investigation, and documentation of events in an older cohort.
Problem-Based Learning for Engineering Students: An Evidence-Based Comparative Study.

This paper describes two studies, one a pilot and the second, an enhanced study, that compare problem-based learning and lecture-based learning in library instruction for first-year engineering students. Two distinct assessment strategies were used to provide empirical evidence that supports the use of problem-based learning as an effective teaching method. Based on the results of the enhanced study, the authors conclude that problem-based learning leads to better outcomes for the learning styles of engineering students.
Captopril and capsaicin modify opioid withdrawal in the morphine-dependent rat

The involvement of neurokinins, especially substance P, in the opiate withdrawal syndrome was studied by treating rats with drugs that have been reported to increase (captopril) or decrease (capsaicin) tissue levels of substance P. Preliminary experiments with captopril (0.1, 0.3, 1 or 3 mg/kg, SC) showed that the 0.3 mg/kg dose enhanced some of the naloxone-precipitated withdrawal signs. Captopril alone had no effect in the morphine-dependent rat. On experimental days, either saline or captopril (0.3 mg/kg) was injected (SC) immediately before naloxone in morphine-dependent rats that were pretreated (4 to 10 days before the morphine pellet implantation) with either capsaicin (125 mg/kg, SC) or the capsaicin vehicle (N = 8 for each of 4 groups). Capsaicin treatment inhibited the following withdrawal signs: rhinorrhea, lacrimation and salivation. Captopril increased the occurrence of these secretory responses in vehicle-treated but not in capsaicin-treated animals. Other withdrawal signs were not altered by either captopril or capsaicin treatment. The results support the conclusion that substance P and related neurokinins may be involved in the expression of some signs of opioid withdrawal.
Randomness, redundancy and repair: roles and relevance to biological aging.

Abstract In this paper, some of the key findings of the last decade will briefly be surveyed and, where possible, be related to two separate computer simulation models which have been designed to determine the validity of certain widely accepted dogmas and to define the limits and restrictions imposed by attrition of or ambiguity of information retrieval from information storage systems. It is shown: (1) that the idealized rectangular survival curve in an “ideal” environment is an extrapolation that is inconsistent with reasonable primary assumptions; (2) that loss of redundant copies of functional “housekeeping” genes may well be a dominant contributor to human senescence; and (3) that redundancy, particularly of informational storage, not only confers greater stability on an organism in dealing with stochastic or programmed age changes, but that it also provides a means through which a more optimized use of informational storage space may be attained.
Gender, Income Differences and Marketing: Examining the "Earnings Gap" in Three Areas of Marketing

This research explores empirically a socioeconomic/equity issue that has been extensively investigated in many areas, but never marketing—the so-called “earnings gap.” Specifically, the study investigates income differences between men and women in marketing, while controlling for differences in business experience, level of education, corporate level, type of industry, and size of firm. The research focuses on three areas in marketing: (1) marketing management, (2) marketing research, and (3) advertising agency management. Findings indicate that there is an “earnings gap” for marketers. Importantly, however, the data show that a substantial portion of the gap can be explained by variables other than sex.
Respiratory complications associated with ketamine anesthesia for ophthalmic procedures following intraocular pressure measurement in children

Background: We compared respiratory complications (RCs) in children who received intramuscular (IM) versus intravenous (IV) or no ketamine for intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement to test our observation that IM ketamine is associated with higher incidence of RCs. Materials and Methods: We analyzed 149 eye examinations under anesthesia with ketamine in 27 patients and 263 non-ketamine examinations under anesthesia in 81 patients using a mixed effects logistic regression model. Results: IM ketamine was strongly associated with increased odds of RCs compared to no ketamine (odds ratio (OR): 20.23, P Conclusion: Further studies should be conducted to confirm our observation of increased RCs with IM ketamine.
Design and active control of a microgrid testbed

Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) have installed a novel Microgrid testbed architecture that will be used for educational and research purposes. This paper documents the architecture of the UTA grid, the development of the national instruments based active control system, and some of the research progress made thus far. The specific commercial off the shelf components that make up the hardware in the system, which is actually broken up into three independent smaller grids, is described. A custom interconnection architecture will also be discussed that enables the three individual Microgrids to operate independently or in an actively interconnected mode of operation. The implementation of system control software will be presented in terms of the state machine used to develop the software. Finally, experimental data gathered from the dynamic performance of the Microgrid will be presented.
Post-Hadean transitions in Jack Hills zircon provenance: A signal of the Late Heavy Bombardment?

Abstract Hadean Jack Hills (Western Australia) detrital zircons represent the best documented terrestrial resource with which to observe the pre-4 Ga Earth. The >4 Ga component of this semi-continuous 4.38 to 3.0 Ga zircon record has been investigated in detail for age, δ 18 O, Lu–Hf systematics, and Ti thermometry. The more abundant post-Hadean population is less well-characterized, but a previous study ( Bell et al., 2011 ) suggests a more restricted range of δ 18 O source materials together with a ca. 4.0–3.6 Ga discontinuity in Lu–Hf evolution. These differences could reflect a transformation in the character of the older zircon source region or their sourcing from different terranes entirely. The relative scarcity of 4.0–3.6 Ga zircons corresponds to a discontinuity in Lu–Hf evolution after which 176 Hf/ 177 Hf in zircon reverts to more radiogenic values relative to the >4 Ga population. We present new oxygen isotope, titanium, and trace element results for 4.0–3.6 Ga Jack Hills zircons in a search for apparent transitions in petrological conditions. Post-3.8 Ga zircons show a marked decrease in the occurrence of heavy oxygen (>6.5‰), but remain close to the average of the Hadean distribution despite their restricted range. This may point to the decreased importance of sedimentary materials in post-3.8 Ga magmas. Ca. 3.9 Ga zircons fall into two categories: “Group I” displays temperatures and compositions similar to the Hadean zircons whereas “Group II” zircons have higher U and Hf, and lower (Th/U), Ce and P. Group II zircons also have anomalously low Ti, and are remarkably concordant in the U–Pb system. Group II's geochemical characteristics are consistent with formation by transgressive recrystallization ( Hoskin and Black, 2000 ), in which non-essential structural constituents are purged during high-grade thermal metamorphism. The restricted age range of Group II occurrence (3.91–3.84) and its coincidence with the postulated intense bolide flux in the inner solar system (i.e., Late Heavy Bombardment; 3.95–3.85) may have causal significance.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ZETA POTENTIAL AND PARTICLE SIZE IN NON-AQUEOUS CARBON-BLACK DISPERSIONS

ABSTRACT A microelectrophoretic investigation of different carbon blacks suspended in n-butanol was undertaken to observe the relationship between particle size and zeta potential of each black. Brownian motion was used to size an individual particle which was subsequently subjected to an electric field to obtain the zeta potential on the same particle. For three blacks studied, the zeta potentials were independent of size within the range measured.
Mechanism Design with Moderate Evidence Cost

This paper addresses how a moderate evidence disclosure cost can be incorporated into mechanism-design analysis. The paper shows that in public-action settings with transferable utility one can restrict attention to a class of three-stage dynamic mechanisms. Under complete information with two or more players, a version of this type of mechanism can be used to eliminate evidence production in equilibrium. The paper also provides conditions on the evidence environment under which the class of mechanisms studied in Bull and Watson (2004) is equivalent to those considered here.
Comparison of outcomes of peritoneal dialysis catheters placed by the fluoroscopically guided percutaneous method versus directly visualized surgical method.

Purpose To compare complications in catheters placed by the fluoroscopically guided percutaneous method versus directly visualized surgery. Materials and Methods A retrospective cohort analysis was performed. Mechanical complication rate data, including catheter leakage, malfunction, malposition, and bleeding, were compared between the two groups over a 1-year follow-up period. Additionally, exit site infection rates, tunnel infection rates, and peritonitis episodes were evaluated based on the incidence within 30 days of insertion and 30 days to 1 year after insertion. Results A total of 101 patients were analyzed (52 in the fluoroscopic guidance group, 49 in the direct visualization group). Prevalence of diabetes was similar: 56% in the directly visualized surgery group and 47% in the fluoroscopically guided treatment group ( P = .37). Although the difference was not significant, complication rates tended to be higher in the directly visualized surgery group compared with the percutaneous placement group. These included catheter leakage (13% vs 4%; P = .093), malfunction (11% vs 9%; P = .73), malposition (13% vs 6%; P = .20), and bleeding (8% vs 2%; P = .21). There were no differences in early and late exit site infections and tunnel infections. Late peritonitis rates were lower in the percutaneous placement group (20%) than in the direct visualization group (42%) ( P = .018). Diabetic patients had approximately six times greater risk of catheter malfunction than nondiabetic patients regardless of method of catheter insertion. Conclusions Placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters percutaneously with fluoroscopic guidance is as safe as placement with direct visualization techniques.
Surgery of the Ear

This article focuses on clinically relevant conditions requiring surgery of the ear. Indications and contraindications for various surgeries are discussed. Surgical procedures are detailed and postoperative care and complications are described.
Fixed-abrasive grinding of brittle hard-disk substrates

Abstract An industry shift from aluminum-based hard-disk substrates to ceramic or glass substrates presents new challenges in high-precision machining. In this paper alternative brittle substrate materials are described. A fixed-abrasive grinding process is implemented using a specially configured precision grinding apparatus, and this process is proposed as an alternative to lapping and polishing for brittle substrates. Ductile-regime grinding techniques are used to machine ceramic substrates in one brittle material—glassy carbon—to optical quality on a two-axis, twin air-spindle grinding machine with nanometer-scale in-feed control. The machine's design and performance is described, as are a series of grinding experiments to fabricate glassy carbon hard-disks. Process innovations have resulted in a machine capable of finishing 0.9 mm-thick ceramic hard-disk substrates to 8 nm rms roughness and 8 μm flatness without lapping or polishing.
LOCAL REDUCTION OF CERTAIN WAVE OPERATORS TO ONE-DIMENSIONAL FORM

It is noted that certain common linear wave operators have the property that linear variation of the initial data gives rise to one-dimensional evolution in a plane defined by time and some direction in space. The analysis is given for operators arising in acoustics, electromagnetics, elastodynamics, and an abstract system. fourteen
MultiArray: a Cpp library for generic programming with arrays

In Cpp, multi-dimensional arrays are often used but the language provides limited native support for them. The language, in its Standard Library, supplies sophisticated interfaces for manipulating sequential data, but relies on its bare-bones C heritage for arrays. The MultiArray library, a part of the Boost library collection, enhances a Cpp programmer's tool set with versatile multi-dimensional array abstractions. It includes a general array class template and native array adaptors that support idiomatic array operations and interoperate with Cpp Standard Library containers and algorithms. The arrays share a common interface, expressed as a generic programming concept, in terms of which generic array algorithms can be implemented. We present the library design, introduce a generic interface for array programming, demonstrate how the arrays integrate with the Cpp Standard Library, and discuss the essential aspects of their implementation. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microbial community succession during lactate amendment and electron acceptor limitation reveals a predominance of metal-reducing Pelosinus spp.

The determination of the success of in situ bioremediation strategies is complex. By using controlled laboratory conditions, the influence of individual variables, such as U(VI), Cr(VI), and electron donors and acceptors on community structure, dynamics, and the metal-reducing potential can be studied. Triplicate anaerobic, continuous-flow reactors were inoculated with Cr(VI)-contaminated groundwater from the Hanford, WA, 100-H area, amended with lactate, and incubated for 95 days to obtain stable, enriched communities. The reactors were kept anaerobic with N2 gas (9 ml/min) flushing the headspace and were fed a defined medium amended with 30 mM lactate and 0.05 mM sulfate with a 48-h generation time. The resultant diversity decreased from 63 genera within 12 phyla to 11 bacterial genera (from 3 phyla) and 2 archaeal genera (from 1 phylum). Final communities were dominated by Pelosinus spp. and to a lesser degree, Acetobacterium spp., with low levels of other organisms, including methanogens. Four new strains of Pelosinus were isolated, with 3 strains being capable of Cr(VI) reduction while one also reduced U(VI). Under limited sulfate, it appeared that the sulfate reducers, including Desulfovibrio spp., were outcompeted. These results suggest that during times of electron acceptor limitation in situ, organisms such as Pelosinus spp. may outcompete the more-well-studied organisms while maintaining overall metal reduction rates and extents. Finally, lab-scale simulations can test new strategies on a smaller scale while facilitating community member isolation, so that a deeper understanding of community metabolism can be revealed.
TIM-3 as a therapeutic target in human inflammatory diseases

T-cell immunoglobulin- and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3 (Tim-3) was the first, and is presently the only, surface molecule that can specifically identify T(H)1 cells in both mice and humans. Engagement of Tim-3 by its ligand galectin-9 negatively regulates IFN-gamma secretion and influences the ability to induce T cell tolerance in both mice and man. Numerous studies have demonstrated that Tim-3 influences autoimmune diseases, including diabetes and multiple sclerosis, and its role in other inflammatory diseases including allergies and cancer is beginning to become clear.
Ipsilateral acoustic reflex thresholds at varying click rates in humans.

The effects of the click repetition rates on the ipsilateral acoustic reflex thresholds were investigated in 17 normal female subjects (total 34 ears) within the age-range of 20 to 26 years. The acoustic reflexes were elicited in response to condensation clicks (100 μs duration) at repetition rates of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300/sec. The probe tone frequency was 226 Hz and the intensity was 85 dB SPL. The thresholds improved significantly with increase in the repetition rates. The mean threshold advantage was 11.2 dB with an increase in the rate from 50 to 100/sec, it was 7.8dB when the rate was increased from 100 to 200/sec and was further reduced to 2.6dB when the rate was increased from 200 to 300/sec. These findings are discussed with reference to the temporal and the spatial summation and facilitation. Possible clinical implications of the findings are presented.
β2-Adrenergic Receptor Polymorphisms and Haplotypes Are Associated With Airways Hyperresponsiveness Among Nonsmoking Men

Study objective: To investigate the relationship of common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the 2-adrenergic receptor (AR) gene at codons 16 and 27, and the intermediate phenotype of airways hyperresponsiveness. Design: A case-control study in 543 white men (152 case patients and 391 control subjects), who were nested in an ongoing longitudinal cohort. Setting: Subjects were selected from the Normative Aging Study, an ongoing longitudinal cohort of healthy aging. Participants: Case patients were defined as those having a positive response to methacholine challenge testing. Control subjects were selected among those who did not have a diagnosis of asthma and who had no response to methacholine. Results: There was a trend for an association of the Arg16 SNP genotype with airways hyperresponsiveness (odds ratio, 1.25; 95% confidence interval, 0.96 to 1.64 [in an additive model]). In stratified analyses, the effect of the Arg16 variant was seen mainly among nonsmokers. Smokers had increased risks for airway hyperresponsiveness regardless of genotype at either SNP. Using a program to estimate haplotype frequencies, three common haplotypes were identified. Adjusting for age, baseline FEV1, serum IgE level, and smoking status, the Gly16/ Gln27 haplotype was negatively associated with airways hyperresponsiveness in the full complement of case patients and control subjects (score statistic, 2.43; p 0.02). The effect of the 2-AR haplotypes was much stronger among lifelong nonsmokers, among whom the Gly16/Gln27 haplotype remained negatively associated with airways hyperresponsiveness (score statistic, 3.114; p 0.002), whereas the Arg16/Gln27 haplotype was positively associated with airways hyperresponsiveness (score statistic, 3.142; p 0.002). No effects were seen among eversmokers. Conclusions: In this cohort of middle-aged to older white men, 2-AR polymorphisms were associated with airways hyperresponsiveness, particularly among lifelong nonsmokers. Our results illustrate an instance in which greater power is obtained by performing haplotype analyses as opposed to single SNP analysis. (CHEST 2004; 126:66 –74)
Disjoint Multi-Path Routing and Failure Recovery

Applications such as Voice over IP and video delivery require continuous network service, requiring fast failure recovery mechanisms. Proactive Fast failure recovery mechanisms have been recently proposed to improve network performance during the failure transients. The proposed mechanisms need extra infrastructural support in the form of routing table entries, extra addresses etc. In this paper, we study if the extra infrastructure support can be exploited to build disjoint paths in those frameworks, while keeping the recovery path lengths close to the primary paths. Our evaluations show that it is possible to extend the proactive recovery mechanisms to provide support for nearly- disjoint paths.
Wide temperature range compact modeling of SiGe HBTs for space applications

We present here wide temperature range compact modeling of Silicon-Germanium heterojunction bipolar transistors (SiGe HBTs) based on Most EXquisite TRAnsistor Model (Mextram). Various modifications and extensions are made to enable modeling of DC characteristics from 43–393 K, and AC characteristics from 93–393 K.
Thermal conductivity of single- and multi-phase compositions in the ZrO2–Y2O3–Ta2O5 system

Compositions in the ZrO2–Y2O3–Ta2O5 system are of interest as low thermal conductivity, fracture resistant oxides for the next generation thermal barrier coatings (TBC). Multiple phases occur in the system offering the opportunity to compare the thermal properties of single, two-phase, and three-phase materials. Despite rather large variations in compositions almost all the solid solution compounds had rather similar thermal conductivities and, furthermore, exhibited only relatively small variations with temperature up to 1000 ◦ C. These characteristics are attributed to the extensive mass disorder in all the compounds and, in turn, small interfacial Kapitza (thermal) resistances. More complicated behavior, associated with the transformation from the tetragonal to monoclinic phase, occurs on long-term annealing in air of some of the compositions. However, the phases in two of the compositional regions do not change with annealing in air and their thermal conductivities remain unchanged suggesting they may be suitable for further exploration as thermally stable TBC overcoats. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Epigenetic Inheritance of a Cocaine Resistance Phenotype

A heritable phenotype resulting from the self-administration of cocaine in rats was delineated. We observed delayed acquisition and reduced maintenance of cocaine self-administration in male, but not female, offspring of sires that self-administered cocaine. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA and protein were increased in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and there was an increased association of acetylated histone H3 with BDNF promoters only in the male offspring of cocaine-experienced sires. Administration of a BDNF receptor antagonist (the TrkB receptor antagonist ANA-12) reversed the diminished cocaine self-administration in male cocaine-sired rats. In addition, the association of acetylated histone H3 with BDNF promoters was increased in the sperm of sires that self-administered cocaine. Collectively, these findings indicate that voluntary paternal ingestion of cocaine results in epigenetic reprograming of the germline resulting in profound effects on mPFC gene expression and resistance to cocaine reinforcement in male offspring.
NAD(P)H oxidase-generated superoxide anion accounts for reduced control of myocardial O2 consumption by NO in old Fischer 344 rats.

We investigated the role of nitric oxide (NO) in the control of myocardial O2 consumption in Fischer 344 rats. In Fischer rats at 4, 14, and 23 mo of age, we examined cardiac function using echocar...
k-anycast routing schemes for mobile ad hoc networks

Any cast is a communication paradigm that was first introduced to the suit of routing protocols in IPv6 networks. In anycast, a packet is intended to be delivered to one of the nearest group hosts, k-anycast, however, is proposed to deliver a packet to any threshold k members of a set of hosts. In this paper, we propose three k-anycast routing schemes for mobile ad hoc networks. Our research work is motivated by the distributed key management services using threshold cryptography in mobile ad hoc networks in which the certification authority's functionality is distributed to any k servers. However, security is not the main focus of this paper. Our goal is to reduce the routing control messages and network delay to reach any k servers. The first scheme is called controlled flooding. The increase of flooding radius is based on the number of responses instead of increasing radius linearly or exponentially. The second scheme, called component-based scheme I, is to form multiple components such that each component has at least k members. We can treat each component as a virtual server as in anycast, thus, we simplify the k-anycast routing problem into an anycast routing problem. For the highly dynamic network environment, we introduce the third scheme, called component-based scheme II, in which the membership a component maintains is relaxed to be less than k. The performances of the proposed schemes are evaluated through simulations.