cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Terahertz imaging of burned tissue

There are over 2 million reported burn injuries each year in the United States with 75,000 of these incidents resulting in hospitalization. Current medical imaging modalities have limited capabilities to assess initial burn damage and monitor healing progress. Some of these limitations can be attributed to modality occlusion from bandages, dried tissue and/or blood and inflammation. Since terahertz radiation can see through textiles and bandages1, previous studies2,3 suggested that terahertz radiation, in a reflectance configuration, could be used for non-invasive analysis of tissue thermal damage and healing status. In this study, we perform an analysis of the terahertz absorption and reflection properties of the tissue constituents comprising a wound area, and provide a feasibility assessment of the capabilities of terahertz imaging to provide a clinical tool for initial burn analysis and healing progress.
Early diagenesis of lignin-associated phenolics in the salt marsh grass Spartina alterniflora

Abstract The predepositional stability of lignin in the salt marsh cordgrass Spartina alterniflora was examined in two different degradation studies: one was a traditional litterbag study carried out using post-senescent brown leaves in a North Carolina marsh creek, and the other was a study in which senescing, standing plants were tagged and allowed to undergo in situ degradation in a Sapelo Island, Georgia, salt marsh. Based on results from lignin oxidation product (LOP) analysis of leaves, lignin in the S. alterniflora was shown to be significantly degraded in both studies, with 13 ± 2% and 25 ± 12% of the total lignin mass loss occurring over the 496-day litterbag and 146-day tagged studies, respectively. A comparison of the results from both studies suggests that most of the calculated lignin loss (> 90%) occurs early in the degradation history of the plant, with a significant portion occurring while the plant is still standing in the salt marsh. Further detailed evaluation of this loss demonstrates that selective lignin degradation occurs in S. alterniflora, deriving from the preferential loss of labile lignin moieties. The most labile component, trans-ferulic acid, accounted for 57% and 82% of the total lignin loss in the litterbag and tagged studies, respectively, based on normalization to syringyl-phenol concentrations. Comparison of these two data sets supports the following approximate lignin stability sequence for S. alterniflora:S ≅ Ca ≅ V >P >Fa. Based on measured changes in both the lignin mass loss and the LOP acid/aldehyde ratio, as well as evidence suggesting that degradation occurred under oxic conditions, it is proposed that aromatic ring cleavage was the predominant mechanism of lignin degradation in both studies. In light of these results and those from other recent lignin degradation studies, we discuss the geochemical consequences regarding the usefulness of lignin oxidation products as quantitative tracers of vascular plant-derived organic matter being transported, deposited, and buried in aquatic environments.
Introduction: Newborn screening and the computer

In this session, we explore current techniques and problem areas in the use of computers to manage newborn screening and follow-up. Certain genetic/metabolic disorders (for example, PKU), if untreated, have serious consequences such as severe mental retardation and death. Laboratory tests for PKU were first available over 25 years ago. More sophisticated testing procedures for PKU and other conditions have developed since. Newborn screening for various disorders has now been mandated by every state. Testing on this scale generates large amounts of data. Not only test results, but also data on demographics, follow-up, and quality control must be maintained, and results must be returned to practitioners in an accurate and timely fashion. Previous systems of manual record-keeping proved inadequate for the task, even when the region of service was small. In addition, statewide or regional coordination and quality control was difficult. Use of computerized systems in statewide or regional centers has developed to provide for efficient data handling and standardization of quality control. The first paper, by Meaney, introduces the topic of newborn screening. It provides a review of developments and the future of computers in assuring quality newborn screening programs. Mordaunt, Cunningham, and Kan discuss the on-line computer system employed in California to manage their statewide newborn screening program. The automated newborn screening follow-up program in Illinois is examined in the paper by Kling, Nash, and Jones. The Pacific Northwest regional newborn screening program has some unique geographic problems because its region of service covers Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, and Alaska. The paper by Tuerck and Buist examines the computerized quality control, monitoring, and tracking system for this region.
A framework for evaluating pairwise and multiway synchrony among stimulus-driven neurons

Several authors have previously discussed the use of log-linear models, often called maximum entropy models, for analyzing spike train data to detect synchrony. The usual log-linear modeling techniques, however, do not allow time-varying firing rates that typically appear in stimulus-driven (or action-driven) neurons, nor do they incorporate non-Poisson history effects or covariate effects. We generalize the usual approach, combining point-process regression models of individual neuron activity with log-linear models of multiway synchronous interaction. The methods are illustrated with results found in spike trains recorded simultaneously from primary visual cortex. We then assess the amount of data needed to reliably detect multiway spiking.
Should we all be teaching "intro to data science" instead of "intro to databases"?

The Database Community has a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions of long-term management of data and the value of data as a resource. In current computer science curricula, however, these insights are typically locked up in the context of the traditional Intro to Databases class that was developed years (or in some cases, decades) before the modern concept of Data Science arose and embedded in the discussion of legacy data management systems. We consider how to bring these concepts front and center into the emerging wave of Data Science courses, degree programs and even departments.
Thoracoscopy. Early diagnosis of interstitial pneumonitis in the immunologically suppressed child.

Interstitial pneumonitis in immunosuppressed patients demands prompt diagnosis and treatment In an effort to achieve a simple yet highly accurate method of diagnosis, we have evaluated the usefulness of thoracoscopic examination. Twenty-seven procedures have been performed in 24 patients between the ages of 17 months and 18 years. All patients were immunosuppressed, most for treatment of malignant processes. All procedures have been performed under anesthesia with intravenously administered ketamine, without endotracheal intubation. A definitive diagnosis has been made in every case, with pneumonia due to Pneumocystis carinii being identified in 18 instances. Complications have been minimal and include four minor pneumothoraces, two instances of bleeding, and two instances of prolonged air leak. Mortality attributable to the procedure has been nil, although five patients have died due to their underlying diseases within 30 days of the thoracoscopic procedure. Thoracoscopy has proven to be a rapid and safe technique for providing accurate histologic and bacteriologic diagnoses in these critically ill children.
Pediatric Arterial Interventions

The spectrum of pediatric vascular pathology differs from the adult population and it varies greatly to include congenital and acquired disorders. Although catheter-directed angiography remains the gold standard, most vascular conditions in the child can be adequately diagnosed with magnetic resonance angiography, computed tomographic angiography, or duplex/Doppler ultrasonography with only a few exceptions, such as intrarenal arterial stenosis, small vessel vasculitides, and visceral vascular malformations. The advancement of catheter and wire technology has made it increasingly possible for complex arterial interventions to be performed in children, including embolization, angioplasty with stent insertion, thrombolysis, and endovascular neurological procedures. More angiographic procedures are being performed with the aim of also being therapeutic. Special considerations in children include the use of appropriate equipment and adequate dosing of contrast and of the various medications used during angiography, particularly in patients less than 15 kg in weight. This article will focus on the management of renovascular hypertension, liver transplant hepatic arterial intervention, and the use of carbon dioxide gas as a contrast agent in the child.
Graft copolymers of starch. I. Copolymerization of gelatinized wheat starch with acrylonitrile. Fractionation of copolymer and effect of solvent on copolymer composition

The starch–polyacrylonitrile graft copolymer prepared from gelatinized wheat starch with ceric ammoninm nitrate as the initiator has been freed of ungrafted polyacrylonitrile and separated into fractions by extraction with dimethylformamide, γ-butyrolactone, and dimethyl sulfoxide. The copolymer fractions obtained differed appreciably in level of add-on, molecular weights of grafted chains, and grafting frequency. To determiue the molecular weights of grafted chains, the starch part of the copolymer was effectively removed by hydrolysis with α-amylase. It was necessary to dissolve or swell the polymer in dimethyl sulfoxide and freshly precipitate it by addition to water before enzymatic hydrolysis. In studying the effect of reaction medium on copolymer composition, there was less ungrafted homopolymer formed and a higher yield of graft copolymer possessing more frequent grafts with water than with aqueous dimethylformamide or aqueous ethylene glycol. Polymer solubility, the results of control polymerizations of acrylonitrile in the absence of starch, and the detection of glucose endgroups on the polyacrylonitrile liberated from the fractionated polymer by hydrolysis are presented as evidence that the copolymers obtained are true grafts rather thau intimate mixtures.
Capisterones A and B, which enhance fluconazole activity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, from the marine green alga Penicillus capitatus.

A whole-cell-based assay using Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains that overexpress Candida albicans CDR1 and MDR1 efflux pumps has been employed to screen natural product extracts for reversal of fluconazole resistance. The tropical green alga Penicillus capitatus was selected for bioassay-guided isolation, leading to the identification of capisterones A and B (1 and 2), which were recently isolated from this alga and shown to possess antifungal activity against the marine pathogen Lindra thallasiae. Current work has assigned their absolute configurations using electronic circular dichroism and determined their preferred conformations in solution based on detailed NOE analysis. Compounds 1 and 2 significantly enhanced fluconazole activity in S. cerevisiae, but did not show inherent antifungal activity when tested against several opportunistic pathogens or cytotoxicity to several human cancer and noncancerous cell lines (up to 35 μM). These compounds may have a potential for combination therapy of fungal inf...
Change in physiological signals during mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation (MM) is an inward mental practice, in which a resting but alert state of mind is maintained. MM intervention was performed for a population of older people with high stress levels. This study assessed signal processing methodologies of electroencephalographic (EEG) and respiration signals during meditation and control condition to aid in quantification of the meditative state. EEG and respiration data were collected and analyzed on 34 novice meditators after a 6-week meditation intervention. Collected data were analyzed with spectral analysis and support vector machine classification to evaluate an objective marker for meditation. We observed meditation and control condition differences in the alpha, beta and theta frequency bands. Furthermore, we established a classifier using EEG and respiration signals with a higher accuracy at discriminating between meditation and control conditions than one using the EEG signal only. EEG and respiration based classifier is a viable objective marker for meditation ability. Future studies should quantify different levels of meditation depth and meditation experience using this classifier. Development of an objective physiological meditation marker will allow the mind-body medicine field to advance by strengthening rigor of methods.
The effect of pistachio shells as a visual cue in reducing caloric consumption.

Abstract It was hypothesized that pistachio shells left in sight as visual cues of consumption will cause individuals to consume less. A convenience sample of faculty and staff at a mid-western university (n = 118) were recruited as subjects for the study. The subjects were told they were going to evaluate a variety of brands of pistachios and were surveyed at the end of each day to determine their fullness and satisfaction. The subjects were offered pistachios on their desks for an 8-h period on two separate days and were able to consume the pistachios at their leisure during that time. Subjects began each day with a sixteen ounce bowl filled with four ounces of pistachios in the shell. They were also provided with a second sixteen ounce bowl, in which they were instructed to place the empty shells from the pistachios they consumed. Every 2 h throughout the day pistachios were added in two ounce increments. In condition one, the shells remained in the bowls until the end of the day, whereas in condition two, the shell bowls were emptied every 2 h throughout the day. In condition one, subjects consumed an average of 216 calories. In condition two, subjects consumed an average of 264 calories, a difference of 48 calories. Subjects in condition one consumed significantly (p ≤ .05) fewer calories, yet fullness and satisfaction ratings were not significantly (p ≥ .05) different between conditions. Leaving pistachio shells as a visual cue to consumption may help consumers consume fewer calories. Learning outcomes: Individuals will be aware of the impact of visual cues of dietary intake on total food consumption.
Hopping transport in molecularly doped polymers: joint modelling of positional and energetic disorder

Hole transport in molecularly doped polymers (MDPs) is modelled as random walks in a bias field E over organic donors D embedded in a polymer matrix. Positional disorder for donor fraction p < 1 is represented by randomly placing donors at sites in a fcc lattice, while energetic disorder is given by a Gaussian distribution of site energies with width and spatial correlations in a sphere of radius R c . Random walks generated by Marcus or small polaron rates for steps between nearby donors yield the mobility w( E , T ). In addition to and R c , the rates depend on the parameters nand ufor the distance dependence and reorganization energy respectively. With tritolylamine (TTA) in polystyrene as the paradigm, a procedure is presented for fixing the interdependent parameters , u, nand R c that reproduce the field and temperature dependences of w( E , T ) over a wide range of p that includes dilute systems with different TTA packings enforced by saturated bonds. Positional disorder exceeds energetic disorde...
Vasomotor Symptom Prevalence Is Associated with Polymorphisms in Sex Steroid–Metabolizing Enzymes and Receptors

The relation of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of genes involved in estrogen function to vasomotor symptoms (VMS) has been inadequately explored. We evaluated SNPs in sex steroid-metabolizing genes and estrogen receptors (ERs) for their association with VMS (hot flashes, night sweats, and/or cold sweats) reported by women who were premenopausal or in early perimenopause at baseline. The study population was drawn from participants in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). African American, Caucasian, Chinese, and Japanese women, 42 to 52 years of age at baseline, who were enrolled in the longitudinal, community-based cohort of SWAN provided questionnaire, interview, weight and height measurements, and serum samples through the sixth annual visit. SNPs associated with the sex steroid hormone pathway were genotyped and available for 1,538 participants. These SNPs were associated with reporting VMS > or =6 days compared with <6 days in the past 2 weeks using race/ethnicity-specific repeated measures logistic regression models. Participants were on average 46 years old at baseline. The prevalence of VMS reporting increased in all racial/ethnic groups from baseline to the sixth annual follow-up visit. After adjustment for covariates, several SNPs encoding genes responsible for estrogen metabolism and ERs were associated with decreased odds of reporting VMS, including the CYP1B1 rs1056836 GC genotype in African American women; 17HSD rs615942 TG, 17HSD rs592389 TG, and 17HSD rs2830 AG genotypes in Caucasian women; and the CYP1A1 rs2606345 AC genotype in Chinese women. We identified race/ethnicity-specific associations between VMS reporting and specific polymorphisms for sex steroid-metabolizing enzymes and sex steroid receptors. Clarification of the mechanisms of the associations and confirmation in other populations is warranted.
Genomic patterns of allelic imbalance in disease free tissue adjacent to primary breast carcinomas.

Mammary stroma plays an important role in facilitating the neoplastic transformation of epithelial cells, modulating integrity of the extracellular matrix, and maintaining genomic stability, but molecular mechanisms by which stroma affects epithelial structure and function are not well-defined. We used laser-assisted microdissection of paraffin-embedded breast tissues from 30 patients with breast disease and a panel of 52 microsatellite markers defining 26 chromosomal regions to characterize genomic patterns of allelic imbalance (AI) in disease-free tissue adjacent to sites of breast disease and to define genomic regions that may contain genes associated with early carcinogenic processes. The mean frequency of AI in histologically normal tissue adjacent to the primary carcinomas (15.4) was significantly higher than that in distant tissue from the same breast (3.7). The pattern of AI across all chromosomal regions differed between the adjacent tissue and primary tumor in every case. Unique AI events, observed only in tumor (15 of informative markers) or only in adjacent cells (10 of informative markers), were far more common than AI events shared between tumor and adjacent cells (~ 4). Levels of AI characteristic of advanced invasive carcinomas were already present in non-invasive ductal carcinomas in situ, and appreciable levels of AI were observed in adjacent non-neoplastic tissue at all pathological stages. Chromosome 11p15.1 showed significantly higher levels of AI in adjacent cells (p < 0.01), suggesting that this region may harbor genes involved in breast cancer development and progression. Our data indicate that genomic instability may be inherently greater in disease-free tissue close to developing tumors, which may have important implications for defining surgical margins and predicting recurrence.
High-energy-density permanent micromagnets formed from heterogeneous magnetic powder mixtures

In this paper, we report the microfabrication and magnetic characterization of parylene-bonded permanent micromagnets. Mixtures of two different sized and shaped isotropic Nd-Fe-B powders are used to form 255 μm × 255 μm × 315 μm thick micromagnets embedded in silicon substrates. The best properties are obtained for a 50:50 mixture of the powders, yielding remanence B r = 0.69 T, intrinsic coercivity H ci = 680 kA/m, and energy product BH max = 45 kJ/m3. Enabled by newly released commercially available magnetic powders, the results show a doubling in the energy density and remanence values over previously reported parylene-bonded magnets. The rapid, simple, low-temperature fabrication of these magnets, as well as their thermal and chemical stability, makes them attractive for magnetic MEMS applications.
Enhancing Ethics and the Competitive Environment by Accounting for Conflict of Interest in Project Procurement

AbstractConflicts of interest, whether actual, potential, or simply a situation having the appearance thereof, occur often in the global facilities and infrastructure design and construction industry, of which engineers are an important and integral part. The procurement of engineering services by governments and agencies can be the first checkpoint for preserving ethical conduct, and the enhanced ethics from this process can then propagate down the value chain in the subsequent delivery of design services, the procurement of construction services, equipment, materials, and supplies needed for construction, and the provision of ancillary services. This paper proposes to account for a range of properly disclosed conflicts of interest, using a scoring framework in the selection process that includes the benefits of accepting a certain degree or level of conflict of interest and weighing it, in a transparent process, against the adverse risks and consequences of a conflict. A two-part metric is proposed: the...
The chemistry of orthophosphate uptake from seawater on to calcite and aragonite

Abstract The chemistry of orthophosphate uptake from synthetic seawater onto the surfaces of synthetic calcite, aragonite and low-magnesium biogenic calcite has been studied, in order to elucidate the kinetics of the process (generally believed to be the major control of dissolved reactive phosphate in carbonate-rich marine sediments). Our results differ from those obtained by others, who have studied orthophosphate uptake in low ionic strength solutions and at much higher supersaturations relative to apatite. In both ‘free drift’ and chemostat experiments, Mg and F have only a minor effect on the reaction rate. Even at constant solution composition the rate of orthophosphate uptake was found to decrease by 10 6 over a two week period. The data from the ‘free drift’ experiments can be fitted to the Elovich equation. This indicates that the kinetics observed for this reaction can be explained by an exponential decrease in available surface reaction sites and/or a linear increase in the activation energy associated with chemisorption as the reaction proceeds.
Comparison Of Three Motion Detection Techniques

The accuracy of motion detection in an image by three proposed techniques is explored using synthetic images with varying contrasts and noise levels. The maximum likelihood test consistently results in a higher probability of detection of true motion than either mean or median tests. However, the maximum likelihood test also consistently has a higher probability of false alarms, that is, the detection of stationary objects as moving objects, than either mean or median tests. For applications in which execution efficiency is at least as important as a high probability of detection, the mean or median tests may be used to advantage.
Pacemaker Induced Mitral Regurgitation: An Alternative Form of Pacemaker Syndrome

A patient in atrial fibrillation was referred for mitral valve replacement due to severe mitral regurgitation. A cardiac pacemaker had previously been implanted. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated large V waves in the wedge pressure tracing during ventricular pacing, which were not present during native conduction. A left ventriculogram demonstrated severe mitral regurgitation during ventricular pacing, but not during native conduction. This patient, in atrial fibrillation, had severe mitral regurgitation induced by ventricular pacing and not by native conduction. Pacemaker syndrome may be caused by mitral regurgitation that is probably not secondary to AV dissociation, but rather the result of dyssyn-chronous ventricular contraction.
Variability of duration of action of neuromuscular-blocking drugs in elderly patients.

Background: Steroid-based, non-depolarizing neuromuscular-blocking (NMB) drugs (e.g. rocuronium, vecuronium) are characterized by organ-dependent elimination and significantly longer durations of action in elderly compared to young patients. Cisatracurium is a benzylisoquinolinium NMB drug with a duration of action not altered by ageing. The objective of the study was to determine if elderly patients had less variability in duration of action with 2 × ED95 of cisatracurium compared to equipotent doses of rocuronium or vecuronium. Methods: Informed consent was obtained from 66 elderly patients with normal renal and liver function. Preoperative midazolam (1 mg) was given IV. The anaesthestic induction was with 5 mg kg−1 thiopental and 2 µg kg−1 fentanyl. The patients received 0.6 mg kg−1 rocuronium, 0.1 mg kg−1 vecuronium or 0.1 mg kg−1 cisatracurium. Anaesthetic maintenance was with sevoflurane in oxygen/nitrous oxide. Neuromuscular-blocking duration of action was defined as the return of T1 twitch height to 25% of control. Variability was determined by subtracting the actual duration of action from the mean duration of action for each drug. Results: The durations of action (range, min) were: cisatracurium, 37–81; vecuronium, 35–137; and rocuronium, 33–119. The median of the variability of duration was significantly less with cisatracurium (7 min) compared to vecuronium (18 min) and rocuronium (18 min) (P < 0.05). Conclusion: When used with sevoflurane/N2O, there was a two-fold greater variability of duration of neuromuscular blockade in elderly patients receiving rocuronium or vecuronium compared with cisatracurium.
Improving neonatal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa: any cause for optimism?

Of the estimated 8.8 million annual deaths that occur in children under the age of 5 years, 41% occur in neonates.1 Thus, per day, the newborn is 45 times more likely to die within the first 28 days of life than in the entire period from 4 weeks to 5 years of age. More than 98% of neonatal deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries and approximately 70% occur in community settings, often the home.2 These deaths frequently take place outside the formal health system and are rarely included in the vital registration process.3, 4
A NEW VISUAL IMAGE RATING SCALE FOR FEMALES: CORRELATIONS WITH MEASURES OF RELATIVE FATNESS, WEIGHT DISSATISFACTION. AND BODY-ESTEEM '

A new Visual Image Rating Scale for females was developed from a computer-reconstructed photograph to produce figures with realistic three-dimensional contour and different types of fat and muscle distribution. Correlations between choice of figures selected by a group of college women on two occasions two weeks apart gave significant test-retest stability. To estimate the construct validity of the scale in assessing body satisfaction, at the time the scale was first administered 77 undergraduate women were asked to select the figure closest to their current physique and to complete the Body-esteem Scale. Figure selection was highly correlated with relative fatness as measured by Body Mass Index and with scores on the Weight Concern subscale of the Body-esteem Scale. The utility of the scale for women of color or for women of a wider range of age and socioeconomic status remains to be evaluated.
Cytokines in psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin disease with an incompletely understood etiology. The disease is characterized by red, scaly and well-demarcated skin lesions formed by the hyperproliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. This hyperproliferation is driven by cytokines secreted by activated resident immune cells, an infiltrate of T cells, dendritic cells and cells of the innate immune system, as well as the keratinocytes themselves. Psoriasis has a strong hereditary character and has a complex genetic background. Genome-wide association studies have identified polymorphisms within or near a number of genes encoding cytokines, cytokine receptors or elements of their signal transduction pathways, further implicating these cytokines in the psoriasis pathomechanism. A considerable number of inflammatory cytokines have been shown to be elevated in lesional psoriasis skin, and the serum concentrations of a subset of these also correlate with psoriasis disease severity. The combined effects of the cytokines found in psoriasis lesions likely explain most of the clinical features of psoriasis, such as the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, increased neovascularization and skin inflammation. Thus, understanding which cytokines play a pivotal role in the disease process can suggest potential therapeutic targets. A number of cytokines have been therapeutically targeted with success, revolutionizing treatment of this disease. Here we review a number of key cytokines implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
FTIR characterization of heterocycles lumazine and violapterin in solution: effects of solvent on anionic forms.

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra have been obtained from solu- tion samples of the heterocycles uracil, lumazine, and violapterin and reveal interpret- able carbonyl stretching frequencies. Spectra of conjugate bases of lumazine and vio- lapterin demonstrate decreases in these carbonyl stretching frequencies upon ioniza- tion. Based on isotopic shifts from amide deuterated analogs, semiempirical QCFF/PI calculations were used to assign the vibrational frequencies in the region 1100-1800 cm 01 observed from samples in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and aqueous solutions to specific normal modes. The observed deuterium shifts and the calculations suggest that, in some cases, N{H bending motions are coupled to the C|O stretching motions of the pyrimidine ring. These data suggest that for lumazine anions a change in solvent can significantly change the mixing of the N{H bending and C|O stretching vibra- tional motions. This implies that vibrational analysis for lumazine species in relatively noninteracting media like nonpolar solvents, mulls or pellets cannot necessarily be transferred to the system when it is dissolved in a polar, hydrogen-bonding solvent such as water. Although other explanations can be offered, our vibrational analysis suggests that the changes in normal mode composition of the predominantly C|O stretching vibrations of lumazine anion on going from dimethylsulfoxide to water solu- tion are consistent with a change in the predominant tautomer of the heterocycle. This change appears to correspond to a shifting of the location of the remaining acidic proton to a different ring nitrogen atom. This interpretation is of interest in view of recent ab initio calculations which suggest that proton shifts may occur during the hydroxylation of lumazine as mediated by the enzyme xanthine oxidase. q 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Biospectroscopy 4: 235-256, 1998
Quantitative Multi-Inspection-Site Comparison of Probability of Detection for Vibrothermography Nondestructive Evaluation Data

This paper describes the estimation of probability of detection (POD) for a vibrothermography inspection procedure. The results are based on a large scale experiment on specimens with two different kinds of metal containing fatigue cracks. The specimens were tested independently at three inspection sites: Iowa State University (ISU), Pratt and Whitney (PW) and General Electric (GE). Despite the substantially different vibrothermography configurations and experimental measurement responses, the estimated PODs as function of crack length and dynamic stress were similar for all three inspection sites, which make quantitative POD comparisons possible across different inspection sites.
Optimization of fed-batch production of the model recombinant protein GFP in Lactococcus lactis

Optimization of recombinant protein production using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) remains an important obstacle on the road to realizing LAB as oral vaccine delivery vehicles. Despite this, there have been few published investigations to explore the higher limits of LAB recombinant protein expression in fed-batch fermentations. In this study, results from response surface experiments suggested an optimal set of conditions for expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP), a model recombinant protein, in bench-scale, fed-batch Lactococcus lactis IL1403 fermentations. The 48 4-L fed-batch fermentations in this set of experiments, along with preliminary studies, investigated the effects of pH, temperature, hemin concentration, concentration of the nisin inducer per cell, and time of induction. Cell densities in this data set ranged from 2.9 to 7.4 g/L and maximum GFP expression per cell ranged from 0.1 to 4.4 relative fluorescence units (RFU)/g. The optimal 4-L, fed-batch fermentation process found here yields growth and protein expression values that dramatically improve upon results from traditional test tube and flask processes. Relative to the traditional process, the experimental optimum conditions yield 4.9 times the cell density, 1.6 times the protein per cell mass, and 8 times the total protein concentration. Unexpectedly, experiments also revealed that the compound hemin, known previously to improve growth and survival of Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis), negatively impacted recombinant protein production when added in concentrations from 5 to 20 microg/mL with this strain. The improvement in protein expression over traditional processes demonstrated here is an important step toward commercial development of LAB for oral delivery of recombinant vaccines and therapeutic proteins.
Decision analysis as a tool for integrating simulation with expert systems when risk and uncertainty are important

Abstract Risk and uncertainty are important components of agricultural decision making. The methodology of applied decision analysis is especially useful in addressing such problems, but has not been widely integrated with expert systems. One problem has been the difficulty of handling uncertainty within the expert system framework in a way which is logically consistent with rational decision criteria. An additional problem in agriculture is the need to combine uncertain or incomplete information from simulations and statistical studies with the subjective knowledge of one or several experts. In this paper, it is argued that Bayesian probability theory provides a natural approach, and a methodology is developed for combining diverse sources of information within the framework of an expert system. The methodology is developed within the context of an expert system for protection of soybeans against corn earworm, using information from HELSIM, a heliothis population model (R. Stinner) and from the SOYGRO soybean crop model (G. Wilkerson).
Laser-driven implosions of Ne/Ar and Ar/Kr gas-filled microballoons: spectroscopic analysis

Abstract Two sets of implosion experiments conducted at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester are described. Analysis of the resulting X-ray line spectra using theoretical Stark-broadening calculations and modelling is presented.
Nature of alkanes in beef heart lipids.

n-Alkanes have been found to be the major saturated hydrocarbon components in the fatty tissues on beef heart. These alkanes consist of a homologous series C14–C35, with the C29 and C31 n-alkanes being most abundant. C16, C19, and C20 isoprenoid alkanes also were identified. A C17 isoprenoid alkane tentatively was identified. The fatty tissues on beef heart contained 32 μg/g saturated hydrocarbons. The distribution pattern of these saturated hydrocarbons is in marked contrast to the alkane distribution in beef liver where branched and cyclic alkanes are predominant. The enrichment and the similarity of the n-alkane distribution in the fatty tissues on heart and in pasture plants may have implications for the physiological aspects of hydrocarbons in the diet.
Assessment of published models and prognostic variables in epithelial ovarian cancer at Mayo Clinic

Objectives Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is an aggressive disease in which first line therapy consists of a surgical staging/debulking procedure and platinum based chemotherapy. There is significant interest in clinically applicable, easy to use prognostic tools to estimate risk of recurrence and overall survival. In this study we used a large prospectively collected cohort of women with EOC to validate currently published models and assess prognostic variables.
Developing and validating science education videodiscs

The development of videodiscs for science instruction in public schools requires a recognition of the unique characteristics of the public school environment and a sensitivity to the persistent problems associated with science instruction. This report discusses the conceptualization, development, and formative evaluation of a series of science education videodiscs. The discs were designed to enhance the efforts of teachers working in both individual and group instructional settings. In presenting the content, particular attention was given to the “effective instruction” research literature and more subject-matter–specific problems such as those associated with the use of terminology and the fragmentation of information. The formative data indicated that videodisc programs can enhance the effectiveness of teachers and substantively impact student achievement and attitudes.
Astrophysics: Stellar clocks

A link between rotation and age for Sun-like stars has long been known, but a stringent test of it for older stars has been lacking. The Kepler mission helps to fill this gap with observations of an old star cluster. See Letter p.589
In vitro microdistraction of preosteoblasts: distraction promotes proliferation and oscillation promotes differentiation.

Osteoblast biology is influenced in vivo by a 3-dimensional (3D) extracellular matrix that mediates their adhesion and interaction and by a constant state of compressive and tensile forces. To stud...
Dynamic temporal patterns of nearshore seepage flux in a headwater Adirondack lake

Abstract Although seepage in lakes is known to vary as a function of precipitation and watershed characteristics, temporal patterns of seepage flux over daily and weekly time scales have not been extensively studied with a concentrated effort of direct measurement of seepage in nearshore areas. In this study, seepage was intensively measured with seepage meters over two summers and during snowmelt in Lower Sylvan Pond, a small lake in the Adirondack Mountains region of New York State, USA. A consistent pattern of slight discharge (never exceeding 105 mL m −2 h −1 ) was observed at three stations along a segment of the shoreline near the inlet stream. A distinct temporal pattern of seepage was observed at three stations along another portion of the shoreline. Seepage discharged (>400 mL m −2 h −1 ) for a portion of the summer in 1998 and then shifted to recharge ( −2 h −1 ) for the remainder of the summer. A similar temporal pattern was observed again in 1999 but the transition to recharge occurred earlier and higher rates of discharge (610 mL m −2 h −1 ) and recharge (−608 mL m −2 h −1 ) were recorded. Additionally, seepage at these three stations increased after large rainfall events and a pronounced episodic increase of seepage was measured during snowmelt. Distinct seepage patterns along portions of the shoreline show that seepage can vary considerably within seasons and suggests a need to consider changes of seepage over time periods of days to weeks as well as among seasons and years. This study demonstrates that the resolution of temporal seepage data can be important to the understanding of water fluxes to aquatic ecosystems.
Generation and characterization of carbon nano-fiber–poly(arylene ether sulfone) nanocomposite foams

Abstract In this study, carbon nano-fibers (CNFs) were used to increase the compressive properties of poly(arylene ether sulfone) (PAES) foams. The polymer composite pellets were produced by melt blending the PAES resin with CNFs in a single screw extruder. The pellets were saturated and foamed with water and CO2 in a one-step batch process method. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) was used to determine the reduced glass transition temperature (Tg) of the CNF–PAES as a result of plasticization with water and CO2. Sharp transitions were observed as peaks in the tan δ leading to accurate quantitative values for the Tg. By accurately determining the reduced Tg, the foaming temperature could be chosen to control the foam morphology. Foams were produced which ranged in density from 290 to 1100 kg/m3. The foams had cell nucleation densities between 109 and 1010 cells/cm3, two orders of magnitude higher than unreinforced PAES foam, suggesting that the CNFs acted as heterogeneous nucleating agents. The CNF–PAES foam exhibited improved compressive properties compared to unreinforced PAES foam produced from a similar method. Both the specific compressive modulus and strength increased by over 1.5 times that of unreinforced PAES foam. The specific compressive strength of 59 MPa for the CNF–PAES foam is similar to that of commonly used high performance structural foam, poly(methacrylimide foam).
Dynamic SPECT imaging: exploring a new frontier in medical imaging

Over the last several years cardiac PET, MRI, CT, and ultrasound have made significant advances while very few new improvements in imaging hardware and radiopharmaceuticals have been realized for cardiac SPECT. Today, the dual-detector SPECT system is the most common imaging system used in nuclear cardiology, and /sup 201/Tl and /sup 99m/Tc-sestamibi are the most common used radiopharmaceuticals. Since no new radiotracers and hardware have been introduced for many years, new methods such as dynamic cardiac SPECT may offer the only potential to improve risk stratification in cases of moderate to mild coronary artery disease. Dynamic imaging could be performed on every cardiac SPECT procedure to provide improved lesion contrast and better evaluation of viable myocardium. However, there are challenges in the development of hardware, radiopharmaceuticals, and data processing techniques for dynamic cardiac SPECT to realize its full potential.
Brooks’ Theorem and Circle Packings

Which geometrically finite subgroups G of Isom(H3) are contained in the lattices Г in Isom(H3)? It is clear that there are only countably many lattices Г and there is a continuum of geometrically finite subgroups G ⊂ Isom(H3). In this chapter, we present a theorem of R. Brooks that asserts that in some sense geometrically finite subgroups G ⊂ Isom(H3), which could be extended to lattices, form a dense countable set. Below is an outline of the proof. Suppose that P is a finite collection of closed round disks in the 2-sphere S 22 such that the interiors of distinct disks are disjoint; however, the boundary circles of these disks could be tangent. Such a collection of circles is a partial packing of S 2. A partial packing is a packing if each complementary component T to the union of disks in P is an ideal triangle, i.e., the boundary of T consists of three circular arcs. Given a partial packing V, one may ask if it is possible to extend P to a packing Q by adding more round disks to the complementary components of ∪DϵP D. One can easily add more disks to P and get a partial packing P, where each complementary component is an ideal quadrilateral. However, in general, we may be unable to extend P’ further, to a finite packing. We could keep adding more and more disks to each complementary quadrilateral
PITTSBURGHESE SHIRTS: COMMODIFICATION AND THE ENREGISTERMENT OF AN URBAN DIALECT

This article considers a type of material artifact that circulates ideas about regional speech in the United States: T-shirts bearing words and phrases thought to be unique to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I argue that Pittsburghese shirts, seen for themselves and in the context of their production, distribution, and consumption, are part of a process leading to the creation and focusing of the idea that there is a Pittsburgh dialect. To describe how particular locally hearable forms have become linked with the city, I invoke Asif Agha's concept of "enregisterment." To understand why this has happened at the time and in the way it has, I draw on Arjun Appadurai's model of the "commodity situation." I suggest that Pittsburghese shirts contribute to dialect enregisterment in at least four ways: they put local speech on display, they imbue local speech with value, they standardize local speech, and they link local speech with particular social meanings.
MEASUREMENT OF TASKLOAD AND PERFORMANCE IN A DYNAMIC MULTI-TASK EXPERIMENT

This paper discusses an experimental paradigm for measuring human performance under time pressure. Participants were presented with four simultaneous number-entry tasks. Entry could occur only within a discrete window of opportunity, represented visually by a target range within a variable-speed progress bar. Participants could view only one task at a time, thus performance required scanning and sampling of all four tasks. Sampling behavior (mouse movements to the vicinity of one of the four tasks) was manipulated via access effort; blocks of trials presented either a half or full second lag before a target task would become visible. Participants’ performance was evaluated by the proportion of responses completed within the required window of opportunity as well as the proportion of a window of opportunity that elapsed before the onset of a response. Results indicate a decrease in such performance as a result of display lag manipulation. The potential for the use of this paradigm in developing predictive measures of performance is discussed.
Cigarette smoking and coronary blood flow.

Cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk for vascular disease. The effects of smoking and nicotine on coronary and peripheral arterial function have been probed with various invasive and noninvasive techniques. The current review provides a brief summary of the available techniques for measuring coronary or peripheral arterial function and discusses the determinants of myocardial blood flow at rest and during stress. Finally, it summarizes research addressing the effects of smoking on coronary and peripheral arterial function. Acute and chronic smoking does not appear to alter substantially endothelium independent coronary vasodilatory capacity. In contrast, active and passive smoking alters coronary and peripheral arterial vasomotion in patients with and individuals without coronary artery disease (CAD). Therefore, the site of the damaging effects of smoking appears to be the coronary endothelium. The smoking history is correlated with the degree of vasomotor abnormalities. Further, the degree of smoking-induced endothelial dysfunction appears to increase with the severity of CAD. Finally, the coronary endothelial and peripheral arterial vasomotor dysfunction observed in active and passive healthy smokers appear to be to some degree reversible.
PEDAMACS: power efficient and delay aware medium access protocol for sensor networks

PEDAMACS is a Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) scheme that extends the common single hop TDMA to a multihop sensor network, using a high-powered access point to synchronize the nodes and to schedule their transmissions and receptions. The protocol first enables the access point to gather topology (connectivity) information. A scheduling algorithm then determines when each node should transmit and receive data, and the access point announces the transmission schedule to the other nodes. The performance of PEDAMACS is compared to existing protocols based on simulations in TOSSIM, a simulation environment for TinyOS, the operating system for the Berkeley sensor nodes. For the traffic application we consider, the PEDAMACS network provides a lifetime of several years compared to several months and days based on random access schemes with and without sleep cycles, respectively, making sensor network technology economically viable.