cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mucosal Diaphragm of the Gastric Antrum

Summary The 13th case of antral mucosal diaphragm in an adult is reported. Clinical and pathological features are described which suggest that the defect may be congenital in origin. The 20 instances of mucosal diaphragm located at the pylorus are discussed. Some appear to be congenital in origin, others secondary to peptic ulcer disease. Suggestions are made concerning diagnosis and treatment of this condition.
Role of the cathode deposit in the carbon arc for the synthesis of nanomaterials

Abstract The atmospheric pressure carbon arc in helium is an important method for the production of nanomaterials. Typical arcs operate in a dc mode between a graphite anode, which is consumed, and a cathode which may be a lower melting point material. During arc operation, a carbon deposit is formed on the cathode surface. This deposit may contain different forms of the synthesised fullerenes. It is shown that this deposit plays a crucial role in conducting the arc current. Temperature measurements demonstrate that a sufficiently large area of the cathode deposit is hot enough for thermionic emission to be the source of most of the arc current. Due to the deposit’s low thermal conductivity, the cathode behind the deposit does not reach its melting point. The role of the deposit in emitting electrons can probably be generalized for other arc synthesis methods with consumed anodes.
Micromachined silicon structures for modelling polymer matrix controlled release systems

Abstract Physical models of polymer matrix controlled release systems were constructed by using silicon micromachining to fabricate miniature pore networks having features comparable in size to those found in the polymer systems. The networks were formed from pyramidal cavities, ranging in size from 100–200 μm on a side and from 70–140 μm deep, etched into a silicon wafer. Narrow channels were etched to connect adjacent cavities and a glass wafer was bonded onto the silicon wafer to form linear pore networks ∼1 mm long. The pore networks were loaded with an aqueous solution of sodium fluorescein, and the solute concentration during diffusion from the network was imaged using video microscopy. The time-dependent concentrations within the pores were fit to a Fickian diffusion model to determine effective diffusivities for the release of fluorescein from the networks. In an initial experiment, the change in effective diffusivity as a function of connecting channel width was consistent with mathematical models of diffusion in constricted networks. Since these techniques permit the production of precisely defined pores of virtually any size and geometry, micromachined silicon networks provide useful physical models for microporous controlled release polymers. In addition, extensions of the present techniques may be useful for production of new microfabricated controlled release systems, where desired release kinetics could be programmed into millimeter-sized devices by fabrication of intelligently-designed pore structures.
Prototype development and implementation of picture archiving and communications systems based on ISO-OSI standard

Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) is an integration of digital image formation in a hospital, which encompasses various imaging equipment, image viewing workstations, image databases, and a high speed network. The integration requires a standardization of communication protocols to connect devices from different vendors. The American College of Radiology and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (ACR- NEMA) standard Version 2.0 provides a point-to-point hardware interface, a set of software commands, and a consistent set of data formats for PACS. But, it is inadequate for PACS networking environments, because of its point-to-point nature and its inflexibility to allow other services and protocols in the future. Based on previous experience of PACS developments in The University of Arizona, a new communication protocol for PACS networks and an approach were proposed to ACR-NEMA Working Group VI. The defined PACS protocol is intended to facilitate the development of PACS''s capable of interfacing with other hospital information systems. Also, it is intended to allow the creation of diagnostic information data bases which can be interrogated by a variety of distributed devices. A particularly important goal is to support communications in a multivendor environment. The new protocol specifications are defined primarily as a combination of the International Organization for Standardization/Open Systems Interconnection (ISO/OSI), TCP/IP protocols, and the data format portion of ACR-NEMA standard. This paper addresses the specification and implementation of the ISO-based protocol into a PACS prototype. The protocol specification, which covers Presentation, Session, Transport, and Network layers, is summarized briefly. The protocol implementation is discussed based on our implementation efforts in the UNIX Operating System Environment. At the same time, results of performance comparison between the ISO and TCP/IP implementations are presented to demonstrate the implementation of defined protocol. The testing of performance analysis is done by prototyping PACS on available platforms, which are Micro VAX II, DECstation and SUN Workstation.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Fourier filtering grows much better with age

Since VanderLugt's famous 1964 paper showing that complex valued filters for optical matched filters could be made, an extremely large number of papers have been written - some by me and some by Professor Goodman, and many more by others. Yet optical Fourier transform filtering is almost never used for anything but university research. The reasons are fairly well known but seldom stated. We have found one new approach to pattern recognition that solves most of the problems and introduces a totally new and very useful thing that can be done with Fourier filtering.
BCR-ABL Gene Expression Is Required for Its Mutations in a Novel KCL-22 Cell Culture Model for Acquired Resistance of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

Acquired resistance through genetic mutations is a common phenomenon in several cancer therapies using molecularly targeted drugs, best exemplified by the BCR-ABL inhibitor imatinib in treating chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Overcoming acquired resistance is a daunting therapeutic challenge, and little is known about how these mutations evolve. To facilitate understanding the resistance mechanisms, we developed a novel culture model for CML acquired resistance in which the CML cell line KCL-22, following initial response to imatinib, develops resistant T315I BCR-ABL mutation. We demonstrate that the emergence of BCR-ABL mutations do not require pre-existing BCR-ABL mutations derived from the original patient as the subclones of KCL-22 cells can form various BCR-ABL mutations upon imatinib treatment. BCR-ABL mutation rates vary from cell clone to clone and passages, in contrast to the relatively stable mutation rate of the hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase gene. Strikingly, development of BCR-ABL mutations depends on its gene expression because BCR-ABL knockdown completely blocks KCL-22 cell relapse on imatinib and acquisition of mutations. We further show that the endogenous BCR-ABL locus has significantly higher mutagenesis potential than the transduced randomly integrated BCR-ABL cDNA. Our study suggests important roles of BCR-ABL gene expression and its native chromosomal locus for acquisition of BCR-ABL mutations and provides a new tool for further studying resistance mechanisms.
Development of social behavior in larval mummichogs after embryonic exposure to methylmercury

Abstract This study was designed to investigate the effects of embryonic exposure to methylmercury (meHg) on social behavior of larval mummichogs Fundulus heteroclitus. Embryos from two sites (polluted and unpolluted) were exposed to 5 and 10 μg meHg/L during development; after hatching, the larvae were transferred to clean seawater. Testing was performed weekly for 4 weeks after hatching. The variables examined were distance between individuals, duration of parallel swimming, and number of collisions or repels. Data indicated that mercury exposure significantly increased the number of collisions by larvae from the unpolluted reference population but not from the polluted population. This effect disappeared by 4 weeks after hatching, indicating that the damage to the developing nervous system was reversible. No trends toward increased parallel swimming or decreased distances between individuals (behaviors that would reflect the beginning of schooling) appeared during the 4 weeks. This indicates that schoo...
Affinity chromatography of the bovine cerebral cortex A1 adenosine receptor.

An approximate 140-fold purification of the A1 adenosine receptor of bovine cerebral cortex has been obtained via affinity chromatography. The affinity column consists of Affi-Gel 10 coupled through an amide linkage to XAC, a high-affinity A1 adenosine receptor antagonist. As assessed by [3h]XAC binding, bovine brain membranes solubilized with the detergent CHAPS had a specific binding activity of 1.1 pmolmg protein. Interaction of solubilized A1 adenosine receptors with the XAC-Affi-Gel was biospecific and 30% of the receptor activity was bound by the gel. Demonstration of [3h]XAC binding in the material eluted from the column with R-PIA required insertion of receptor into phospholipid vesicles. The specific activity of the affinity column purified receptor was 146 ± 22 pmolmg protein with typically 5–15% of the bound receptor recovered. The purified receptor displayed high-affinity antagonist binding and bound agonists with the potency order expected of the bovine brain A1 adenosine receptor: R-PIA >S-PIA >62; NECA. In purified preparations, the photoaffinity probe [1251]PAPAXAC-SANPAH specifically labelled a protein of molecular mass 38000 which has previously been shown to be the A1 adenosine receptor binding subunit.
Some tests for increase in friction of mechanisms of the Mariner Mars 1969 spacecraft in the JPL Molsink space simulation chamber.

Friction tests for Mariner Mars 1969 spacecraft mechanisms in ultrahigh vacuum molecular sink chamber, noting increased friction attributed to vacuum environment
Recognizing and understanding time-terms in communication

Time-terms are used by humans to indicate a temporal frame of reference during communication with one another. The frame of time is used to indicate whether an action or event has happened in the past, is currently taking place, or will happen in the future. These terms may specify an amount of time in the form of a time difference value, a specific time moment or time period in the form of a time concept value, and a time relative to now in the form of time adverbs. In this paper, we describe how a computer program understands time terms when they are expressed in a sentence. Understanding a time-term means to find out exactly what the term stands for when it is used. We discuss what knowledge the program needs to acquire, and describe how the program uses this knowledge to recognize the various kinds of time-terms in a given sentence. We then discuss how the program understands them by classifying time concept values and time adverbs into the categories of time period and time moment. Finally, we present how to combine time-terms into a single time period or time moment when multiple terms are presented in a sentence introduced by various prepositions, e.g., at noon on Tuesday of next week. It allows the program to use the understanding to perform simple reasoning about the relationships, such as starts before or ends after, between two given time-terms or events.
Measurement-based optimal resource allocation for network services with pricing differentiation

In this paper, we introduce a model for allocating available resources in service-oriented network, with particular focus on delay sensitive services. The model is based on a pricing scheme for the offered services and also takes into consideration the quality of service requirements of each service class through a probabilistic delay-bound constraint. The proposed policy is dynamic in nature and relies on online measurements of the incoming traffic for adjusting the class allocations. We illustrate its performance and its robustness to various tuning parameters through an extensive simulation study that considers various simulation scenarios including experiments based on real network traces.
Tuff above “Lucy” Older than expected

A poster paper presented at the AGU Spring Meeting offers evidence that the fossil specimen of Australopithecus afarensis known as “Lucy” may be older than had been previously thought. Many anthropologists consider “Lucy” a pivotal find in tracing the evolution of our species.
Cofilin and gelsolin segment-1: molecular dynamics simulation and biochemical analysis predict a similar actin binding mode

An understanding of the actin-depolymerizing function attributed to members of the ADF/cofilin/destrin superfamily requires a structural model of these proteins in complex with actin. As a step toward defining actin-cofilin interactions, the complex of yeast cofilin with monomeric actin was predicted, starting with the actin-gelsolin segment-1 binding mode recently suggested for the actin-destrin complex. After refinement by molecular dynamics simulation, the structure of cofilin converged in a new binding mode that required only minimal changes induced in the actin-cofilin interface. The predicted complex exhibits strong interactions between the N termini of actin and cofilin, mediated by a salt bridge of cofilin Arg3 with actin Asp1. The forming of this salt bridge could be prevented by the phosphorylation of cofilin Ser4, which is believed to inhibit cofilin depolymerization activity. Recent mutagenesis studies, crosslinking experiments and peptide binding studies are consistent with the predicted model of the actin-cofilin complex. The structural homology between cofilin and gelsolin segment-1 binding to actin was confirmed experimentally by two types of competitive binding assays.
Movie review: Divining a sense of justice in Stephen Frears’ Sammy and Rosie get laid

Film can serve as a means of escape from our everyday life situations. Film can also serve as a powerful medium for political discourse and social commentary. Sammy and Rosie Get Laid is a film that falls into the latter category. It is a an ideal addition to any curriculum concerned with issues of power and justice. Why? If for no other reason, because the screenwriter and director, Hanif Kureishi and Stephen Frears assume their audience is intelligent. Laced together by one absurd scene after another, the film conveys a complex message that is potent in its delivery and imaginative in its presentation. The message suggests that social justice is fleeting. For Kureishi and Frears justice is elusive when we fail to recognize that our struggle for human rights is so often undermined by an unwillingness to let go of our emotional baggage (e.g. vanity, greed, envy, pride, apathy, anger, self‐righteousness). This essay considers why the main characters are in a losing battle as they call for justice on behalf...
Clinical cardiopulmonary bypass without systemic anticoagulation

Heparin-coated perfusion systems have been used to perform cardiopulmonary bypass with decreased systemic heparin dosages. We report the case of a 60-year-old man with end-stage liver disease and severe aortic stenosis who underwent an aortic valve replacement without systemic anticoagulation, employing a heparin-coated perfusion system. In patients with a contraindication to systemic anticoagulation, cardiopulmonary bypass with a heparin-coated system without systemic anticoagulation may be a viable alternative.
Unfolded optical glory of spheroids: Backscattering of laser light from freely rising spheroidal air bubbles in water

Enhancement in backscattering known as glory scattering results from geometric and material properties of spherically symmetric scatterers. The wave-front shape near the spherical scatterer is locally a circular torus. Radiation from a toroidal wave front is axially focused on the backward-directed axis. It is shown that the axial point caustic unfolds to an astroid caustic as the scatterer's shape changes from spherical to slightly spheroidal. The wave front pertinent for slightly spheroidal scatterers was modeled as a toroidal wave front with a superimposed harmonic angular perturbation. Experimental observations are displayed for cross-polarized backscattering by freely vertical rising, slightly oblate spheroidal air bubbles in water illuminated by a horizontally propagating laser beam. These patterns were recorded with a camera for two different incident-beam polarization directions relative to the axis of rotational symmetry of the bubble. Angular scattering patterns were also computed using a perturbation analysis based on use of the harmonically perturbed toroidal wave front and physical optics. Bubble oblateness was estimated from features of the angular scattering pattern and from hydrodynamic relations.
INFLUENCE OF REFRACTIVE INDEX ON REFLECTANCE FROM A SEMI-INFINITE ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIUM WITH COLLIMATED INCIDENT RADIATION*

Abstract Directional and hemispherical reflectance and transmittance, which result from collimated incident radiation on a semi-infinite absorbing-scattering medium, are presented as a function of refractive index and scattering albedo. Exponential kernel substitution is used to develop an approximate but closed form solution to the governing transport equation. It is considered that scattering is isotropic and that the Fresnel relations govern the interface reflection and transmission. Exact solution, available only for normally incident radiation, reports hemispherical reflectances that are within 15 per cent of the predicted values.
Life and death in bovine monocytes: The fate of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis

Abstract We previously reported that the number of acid-fast bacilli within Mycobacterium paratuberculosis-infected bovine monocytes increased steadily during an 8-day incubation period in vitro, despite a decrease in the number of viable bacilli as estimated by a radiometric method. In this study, we used differential live/dead staining of bacilli from infected monocytes to show that the percentage of viable bacilli decreased during an 8-day incubation period. We observed poor phagosome–lysosome fusion in monocytes that had ingested viable M. paratuberculosis (30% phagosome–lysosome fusion), while monocytes that ingested heat killed M. paratuberculosis exhibited 94% phagosome–lysosome fusion at 24 h after infection. Treatment with the selective Ca2+/CaM and PI3 kinase inhibitors (i.e. KN62 and Wortmannin) in combination increased the survival of M. paratuberculosis in bovine monocytes without significantly altering phagosome–lysosome fusion. Scanning electron microscopy suggested that M. paratuberculosis-infected monocytes were less differentiated (smaller and less spreading) than uninfected monocytes at 4 and 8 days of infection. Overall, these data suggest that both multiplication and killing of intracellular M. paratuberculosis occur concomitantly in bovine monocytes. Monocytes in turn may be adversely affected by the bacilli, their products, or factors released from infected monocytes.
Is mortality raised in patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention if they suffer from anemia

Is mortality raised in patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention if they suffer from anemia?
Fuzzy Control Strategy and Simulation for Dual Electric Tracked Vehicle Motion Control

Based on tracked vehicle dynamics analysis, a fuzzy control strategy is proposed in this paper for the dual electric tracked vehicle motion control. The inputs of fuzzy system are driver acceleration, braking and steering signals besides vehicle velocity feedback signal, while outputs are dual motors’ torque commands and mechanical braker’s target force. Control strategy contains two fuzzy logics, one is for steering and straight-line running control, the other is for braking control section. Simulation results show that the fuzzy control strategy presented here is correct and effective for electric tracked vehicle motion control.
A Sociologist's View

If there is any more equivocal honor than to speak for sociology, it must be that of essaying to tell anthropologists their prospects in life. This position is mitigated slightly by some existing confusion of role among anthropologists. It is the more onerous because anthropology when directed toward complex societies appears either to identify itself with or compete with sociology for its field.1 The entire matter is further complicated by many sociologists' distrust of anthropological research methods applied to complex societies, and a correlative suspicion of theorizing sociologists by anthropologists priding themselves on pure empiricism. It will, however, be argued in this paper that in reference to complex society analysis, anthropology and sociology stand in complementary, as well as overlapping, relationship, theoretically, substantively and methodologically.
Photocatalytic Water Splitting with Suspended Calcium Niobium Oxides: Why Nanoscale is Better than Bulk − A Kinetic Analysis

The layered Dion–Jacobson phase KCa2Nb3O10 is known to catalyze photochemical water reduction and oxidation under UV light in the presence of sacrificial agents. The same reactions are catalyzed by tetrabutylammonium hydroxide-supported HCa2Nb3O10 nanosheets obtained by chemical exfoliation of the parent phase. Here we describe a factorial study into the effects of nanoscaling, sacrificial charge donors, cocatalysts, and cocatalyst deposition conditions on the activity of these catalysts. In water, nanoscaling leads to a 16-fold increase in H2 evolution and an 8-fold increase in O2 evolution over the bulk phase under the same conditions. The sacrificial electron donor methanol improves H2 production by 2–3 orders of magnitude to 20–30 mmol of H2/h/g, while the electron acceptor AgNO3 increases O2 production to 400 μmol of O2/h/g. Rates for H2 and O2 evolution further depend on the presence of cocatalysts (Pt or IrOx) and, in the case of H2, inversely on their particle size. To rationalize these findings a...
25-Years Three-Fluid Modeling Experience: Successes and Limits

The paper presents many examples of successful use of the three fluid processes modeling in 1D-networks, 3D-single volumes and 3D-boundary fitted volumes in the nuclear engineering. The modeling techniques, which have proof to be useful, are underlined and recommended for future use. The limits of the method are elaborated and recommended for future investigation.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Internal homogenization: Effective permittivity of a coated sphere

The concept of internal homogenization is introduced as a complementary approach to the conventional homogenization schemes, which could be termed as external homogenization. The theory for the internal homogenization of the permittivity of subwavelength coated spheres is presented. The effective permittivity derived from the internal homogenization of coreshells is discussed for plasmonic and dielectric constituent materials. The effective model provided by the homogenization is a useful design tool in constructing coated particles with desired resonant properties.
Peptide-Mediated Release of Folate-Targeted Liposome Contents from Endosomal Compartments1

An egg phosphatidylcholine-derived liposome preparation has been developed that achieves low pH-dependent cargo unloading in the absence of a pH-sensitive lipid component by use of the 30 amino acid residue peptide, EALA. This peptide adopts an amphiphilic α-helical conformation in a mildly acidic environment, and when encapsulated into neutral liposomes or covalently attached to one of its lipid components, the peptide can facilitate the release of liposome contents. Our liposomes have also been designed to be tumor cell specific by incorporation of a folate−PEG−PE lipid conjugate which allows the liposomes to enter receptor-bearing cells through the pathway of folate receptor-mediated endocytosis. In combination, these features allow for the cytoplasmic release of 20−25% of the encapsulated cargo of internalized liposomes within several hours of administration. To quantitate the extent of the cytoplasmic unloading of liposomal contents, a new methodology was developed that exploits the dramatic increase...
Health: A cross-cultural examination of gender and marital status

An examination of the literature implies that being single is not a healthy situation. However, there appears to be disagreement as to whether this finding holds for both males and females. A probability-proportionate-to-size cluster sample of 400 households was drawn from the Dayton Metropolitan area, and a questionnaire about health and civil status was administered. The study was replicated in Australia and New Zealand. A summary of 12 stress-related items reveals that a divorced person is more likely to note feelings of worry, worthlessness, guilt, despondency, and loneliness than a married person. This held true cross-culturally. It is the divorced who are most likely to be involved in suicide thoughts and attempts. Getting drunk once per week or more is largely a singles (as well as a male) prerogative; however, it is more likely to be a never married rather than the divorced person. Overall, the findings indicate that marriage is good for both sexes but seemingly more so for males.
RIPS: a UNIX-based reference information program for scientists.

Abstract A set of programs is described which implement a personal reference management-and information retrieval system on a UNIX™-based minicomputer. The system operates in a multiuser configuration with a host of user-friendly utilities that assist entry of reference material, its retrieval, and formatted printing for associated tasks. A search command language was developed without restriction in keyword vocabulary, number of keywords, or level of parenthetical expression nesting. The system is readily transported, and by design is applicable to any academic specialty.
Microstructure and properties of a silver–erbium oxide alloy

Abstract A Ag–4 wt.% Er solid solution alloy was produced by arc melting and quenching to room temperature. When this alloy was annealed in air at various temperatures, the Er was converted to ∼1-μm thick Er 2 O 3 lamellae in the Ag matrix. Subsequent swaging and stress-relief annealing converted the lamellar microstructure to predominantly spheroidal Er 2 O 3 particles. The alloys were examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrical resistivities of 2.0–3.3 μΩ cm and hardness values of 83–162 HV were measured.
Activation product transport in fusion reactors

Abstract Activated corrosion and neutron sputtering products will enter the coolant and/or tritium breeding material of fusion reactor power plants and experiments and cause personnel access problems. Radiation levels around plant components due to these products will cause difficulties with maintenance and repair operations throughout the plant. A computer code, RAPTOR, has been developed to determine the transport of these products in fusion reactor coolant/tritium breeding materials. Without special treatment, it is likely that fusion reactor power plant operators could experience dose rates as high as 8 rem per hour around a number of plant components after only a few years of operation.
An algorithm for solving expected possibility and its application in construction resource allocation

Abstract Allocation of labor and other resources to individual construction activities is at best a non-exact science even though there have been many algorithms developed to add rigor to the process. These algorithms assume known resource pool levels when experience indicates daily variations in the ‘show up’ ratio; they also assume the external factors of weather, economy, and so forth can be ignored or their impact directly factored into the network logic. This paper addresses the question of introducing this type of uncertainty into the resource assignment algorithm rather than the logic. First, an algorithm to find the degree of possibility for a body of fuzzy evidence regarding the external factors is introduced. This algorithm is then used to measure the weights of criteria that are required in the resource allocation process. Finally, these weights are utilized with susceptibility data to create the priority measures to be employed by the resource allocation algorithm.
Cytoreductive surgery with intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: mitomycin versus cisplatin.

Background Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, rapidly fatal disease. Because traditional treatments offer little benefit, there has been increasing interest in cytoreductive surgery (CS) with intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy (IPHC). The most efficacious chemotherapy regimen is not established. Herein we report clinical outcomes of MPM patients treated with CS and IPHC and contrast results using two chemoperfusates: mitomycin and cisplatin.
WITHDRAWN: Analysis of synphilin-1 and synuclein interactions by yeast two-hybrid β-galactosidase liquid assay.

Abstract Synphilin-1 interacts with α-synuclein, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). By examination of their interactions quantitatively, with the use of the yeast two-hybrid β-galactosidase assay, we find that the synuclein amino acid (aa) 1–65 region is sufficient for an interaction. A central domain of synphilin-1, aa 349–555, is both necessary and sufficient for an interaction with α-synuclein. We did not observe an effect of the synuclein A53T mutation, which causes one familial form of PD, on interactions with synphilin-1. However, the A30P mutation caused an increase in the interaction between the synuclein aa 1–65 fragment and the synphilin-1 central domain.
Techniques And Initial Results From An X-Ray Laser Experiment Using Laser-Vaporized Copper Foil Plasmas

A series of exploratory experiments recently carried out at NRL were directed towards the possible utilization of laser-heated ultra-thin copper films for generating elongated plasmas of sufficient uniformity to produce amplification on 3s-3p transitions in neon-like copper ions. The NRL Pharos III laser operating at 140-335 J in 2-6 ns pulses was used as a driver. Variations were made in the plasma length, the laser energy and pulse shape, and the copper thickness in order to optimize the gain-medium conditions. A primary necessity was to assure on each attempt an accurately-aligned vuv grazing-incidence spectrograph. Using space-resolved x-ray crystal spectroscopy and pinhole photography as auxiliary diagnostics, axial homogeneity as well as front/rear symmetry were measured. The electron temperature in the Cu XX plasma, as estimated from intensity ratios of 2p-nd transition x-ray lines, was found to increase with copper thickness. Various explanations for the lack of measureable gain in these inital tests are discussed. A novel slotted copper foil (thicker) target design was also tested and showed similar characteristics to the thin copper film targets. Also, spectral features from a selenium target exposure are described.
Nephrology nurse practitioners in a collaborative care model

The use of nurse practitioners in the primary care setting is increasingly common. However, little information is available on their use in specialty care areas. This is especially true in nephrology, in which end-stage renal disease (ESRD) lends itself well to this type of practice. We describe our experience with a university-based collaborative care model for ESRD with nurse practitioners in nephrology. Our experience shows that nephrology nurse practitioners have a significant impact on extending the quality and quantity of patient care provided by the nephrologist. They facilitate a holistic patient-friendly approach, and, as an integral part of the collaborative model, there is an associated significant decrease in patient mortality relative to standard comparators. Nurse practitioners provide a large amount of care for ESRD patients in a relatively independent fashion but under the supervision and with the collaborative interaction of nephrologists. Patient satisfaction, approval, respect, and trust for the nurse practitioners are exceptional. The use of nephrology nurse practitioners provides the potential for augmenting patient care, satisfaction, and access to care. It provides an avenue for potential cost reduction in nephrology while maintaining quality of care. It further provides a partial solution to the anticipated shortage of nephrologists in the twenty-first century.
EFFECT OF A 42-DAY TAPERING COURSE OF DEXAMETHASONE ON OUTCOME AT ONE YEAR OF AGE IN VERY PRETERM INFANTS. • 1230

Ventilator dependent preterm infants are often treated with dexamethasone(DEX) to decrease the risk and severity of chronic lung disease. To study the effects of DEX on developmental outcome we examined, at one year of age, infants who had participated in a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial of a 42-day tapering course of DEX. The dosage schedule was that described previously by Cummings et al [NEJM 1989;320:1505-1510]. Of 118 infants randomized, 50 of 57 DEX recipients and 45 of 61 placebo recipients survived to one year of age (adjusted for prematurity). Of these 95 survivors, 91 (96%) were examined at one year by clinicians blind to group assignment. A structured physical and neurologic examination was performed by a pediatrician experienced in developmental follow-up, and the Bayley Scales of Infant Development were administered by a child psychologist. Groups were similar in terms of birth weight (expressed as median and range) [DEX: 747 gms(420-1362); placebo: 775 gms (495-1324)], gestational age [DEX: 25 wks(23-29); placebo: 26 wks (23-31)], gender [DEX: 48% males; placebo 51% males], race [DEX: 66% white, placebo: 51% white]. A higher percentage of DEX infants had major cranial ultrasound abnormality [21% vs 11%]. Group differences were not found for Bayley Mental Developmental Index (MDI) or Pschyomotor Developmental Index (PDI): [MDI: DEX - 94 (50-123) vs placebo - 90 (28-117); PDI: DEX - 78 (50-109) vs placebo - 81 (28-117)]. More DEX treated infants had cerebral palsy [DEX: 12/47 (26%) vs 3/44 (7%); p = 0.02; Fisher's exact test], and abnormal neurological examinations [DEX: 21/47 (45%) vs placebo 7/44(16%); p =0.003; Fisher's exact test]. In stratified analyses which adjusted for major cranial ultrasound abnormalities, the association between DEX and cerebral palsy persisted [odds ratio: 5.8; 95% confidence limits: 0.9, 35.4; p= 0.057] Possible explanations for these findings include an adverse effect of DEX on brain developmental and/or improved survival of infants who either already have neurologic damage or who are at increased risk for such damage.
Hepatitis B Surface Antigenemia in a Chronic Hemodialysis Program: Lack of Influence on Morbidity and Mortality

One hundred one patients established on chronic hemodialysis on January 1, 1978, were retrospectively evaluated over the ensuing 8-year period to determine the effect of hepatitis B surface antigenemia on morbidity and mortality. Sixty-four patients remained HBsAg-negative after reaching end-stage renal disease; 30 were transiently or persistently HBsAg-positive; seven patients were excluded from study because of insufficient data. The HBsAg-positive and HBsAg-negative patients did not differ with respect to age, sex, race, or etiology of renal disease. There were no differences between the positive and negative groups in terms of death rates (50% v 34.4%, P = not significant), causes of death, hospitalizations (1.5 v 1.2/patient/yr), or hospitalized days (18.0 v 11.8 patient/yr). Only mild liver enzyme elevation (SGOT) was observed at the time of conversion in 13 patients with enzyme abnormalities who seroconverted after beginning hemodialysis (mean SGOT 255 μm/mL). No patient had persistent liver enzyme elevation over the 8-year period. These data suggest that chronic hepatitis B surface antigenemia is not, in itself, associated with increased morbidity or mortality in a chronic hemodialysis population.
EVALUATION AND MANAGEMENT OF MECHANICAL DYSFUNCTION IN CONTINENT COLONIC URINARY RESERVOIRS

Purpose: We analyze a group of patients who presented with mechanical dysfunction of the reservoir and/or efferent limb of a continent colonic urinary diversion, and establish an evaluation and management algorithm.Materials and Methods: A total of 16 patients with a mean age of 58 years and 1 or more symptoms related to continent colonic urinary diversion were evaluated. Presenting symptomatology included difficult catheterization in 8 cases (50%), disabling incontinence in 8 (50%) and recurrent urinary tract infections in 6 (37.5%). All patients had normal, nonobstructed, nonrefluxing upper tracts and none presented with stone disease. Urological evaluation consisted of catheterization, fluoroscopy and urography of the pouch, retrograde urography of the external limb and urodynamics (enterocystometrogram and outlet pressure profilometry).Results: Of the 8 patients with difficulty with catheterization 4 had stomal stenosis, 2 had an elongated and redundant external limb, and 2 had a false passage. Diagno...
Tannins and self-medication: Implications for sustainable parasite control in herbivores.

Animals adapt to the variability of the external environment and to their changing internal needs not only by generating homeostatic physiological responses, but also by operating in the external environment. In this study, we determined whether sheep with a gastrointestinal parasite infection increased intake of a low-quality food containing a natural antiparasitic agent (tannins) relative to non-parasitized sheep. Four groups of lambs (n = 8 lambs/group) were assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial design with parasitic burden (P = parasites; NP = no parasites) and the offer of a supplement containing tannins (yes, no) as the main factors. Parasitized lambs ate more of the tannin-containing food than non-parasitized lambs for the first 12 days of the study, when parasite burdens were high, but differences became smaller and disappeared toward the end of the study when parasite burdens decreased. This result suggests the lambs detected the presence of internal parasites or associated symptoms and modified their ingestion of an antiparasitic agent as a function of need.
Design and Implementation of the Boundary Layer Transition Flight Experiment on Space Shuttle Discovery

In an effort to better the understanding of high speed aerodynamics, a series of flight experiments were installed on Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-119 and STS-128 missions. This experiment, known as the Boundary Layer Transition Flight Experiment (BLTFE), provided the technical community with actual entry flight data from a known height protuberance at Mach numbers at and above Mach 15. Any such data above Mach 15 is irreproducible in a laboratory setting. Years of effort have been invested in obtaining this valuable data, and many obstacles had to be overcome in order to ensure the success of implementing an Orbiter modification. Many Space Shuttle systems were involved in the installation of appropriate components that revealed 'concurrent engineering' was a key integration tool. This allowed the coordination of all various parts and pieces which had to be sequenced appropriately and installed at the right time. Several issues encountered include Orbiter configuration and access, design requirements versus current layout, implementing the modification versus typical processing timelines, and optimizing the engineering design cycles and changes. Open lines of communication within the entire modification team were essential to project success as the team was spread out across the United States, from NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida, to NASA Johnson Space Center in Texas, to Boeing Huntington Beach, California among others. The forum permits the discussion of processing concerns from the design phase to the implementation phase, which eventually saw the successful flights and data acquisition on STS-119 in March 2009 and on STS-128 in September 2009.
The University of California at San Francisco Fetal Treatment Center: a personal perspective

Today, the Fetal Treatment Center at the University of California, San Francisco is premier not only for its innovative and cutting-edge developments in fetal diagnosis and therapy, but in its deliver
Future impacts of RFID on e‐supply chains in grocery retailing

Purpose – To place the research on radio frequency identification (RFID) usage in supply chains within a specific business and market context; in this case, the grocery industry.Design/methodology/approach – This paper considers RFID research within the context of the grocery industry and outlines the market drivers that affect the way the grocery industry approaches RFID and also specific areas of research on RFID that should be undertaken to better provide the grocery industry with managerial insights into this technology's application.Findings – Examining market drivers that are leading to RFID implementation in the grocery industry, this paper provides a theoretical framework for future applied research on RFID implementation. Specifically, it develops a research framework that includes research using modeling techniques, RFID implementation and the impact of RFID on daily operational issues.Research limitations/implications – This paper focuses on the market drivers for RFID implementation. While it ...
Applicability of the Functional Reach and Timed Up and Go Tests for Elderly Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease

Purpose: This study examined the applicability of the Functional Reach (FR) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease (AD).Participants: Eleven individuals with AD and 9 individuals without dementia participated.Methods: All participants were administered the FR and TUG tests.Results: Mean FR scores were 6.6 inches for the group with AD and 4.4 inches for the group without AD. These scores are reflective of limitations in mobility and increased risk of falling. Mean TUG scores were 21.6 seconds for the AD group and 26.2 seconds for the group without AD. The majority of participants scored within a ‘gray zone’ in which TUG scores vary greatly when correlated with mobility levels.Conclusions: For evaluation of balance of individual with AD, clinicians may not find the FR or TUG tests particularly valuable. The FR test was difficult to administer, and low scores may, to a large extent, reflect an individual's cognitive deficit rather than a frank balance deficit. In contrast, t...
Electron affinity of NH: a coupled-cluster and Hartree-Fock density-functional-theory study

Abstract We study the highly sensitive electron affinity of the NH radical at several levels of ab initio correlated theory (CCSD, CCSD + T(CCSD), CCSD(T), CCSDT, QCISD, QCISD(T)), and using Hartree-Fock density functional theory with different basis sets and reference functions. It is found that the contribution to the EA of NH from triple excitations exceeds the contributions from singles and doubles and accounts for the calculated EA value being in reasonable agreement with the experimental data (≈0.30 compared to 0.38 eV). The HFDFT/B3LYP approach was shown to fail in predicting the stability of the NH − anion with respect to autodetachment when the highest UHF occupied MO of NH − has a relatively large positive eigenvalue.
Air is Still Contaminated 40 Years after the Michigan Chemical Plant Disaster in St. Louis, Michigan

The Michigan Chemical (also known as Velsicol Chemical) plant located in St. Louis, Michigan operated from 1936-1978. During this time, the plant manufactured polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), hexabromobenzene (HBB), 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl) ethane (DDT), and tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (TDBPP), among other products. Due to widespread PBB contamination of Michigan, the plant eventually became a Superfund site, and despite years of cleanup activities, many of the compounds can still be found in the local ecosystem. To investigate the current atmospheric levels and to determine their spatial distributions, we collected tree bark samples from around Michigan and measured the concentrations of these pollutants. For comparison, other organic pollutants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and organophosphate esters (OPEs), which were not manufactured at the Michigan Chemical plant, were also measured in the same tree bark samples. Our results show levels of PBBs, DDT, and HBB in tree bark collected within 10 km of the Velsicol Superfund site (43, 477, and 108 ng/g lipid wgt., respectively) are 1-2 orders of magnitude higher than at sites located more than 10 km from the site (0.36, 28, and 0.36 ng/g lipid wgt., respectively). Levels of PBDEs and OPEs did not depend on distance from St. Louis. This is the first study on the atmospheric distribution of these chemicals around the Superfund site.
A quasi-Newton method for solving nonlinear algebraic equations

Abstract An algorithm for solving systems of nonlinear algebraic equations is described. The Jacobian matrix is modified by using a convex combination of Broyden and a weighted update. A q -superlinear convergence theorem and computational evidence exhibiting significant relative efficiency of the proposed method are given.
Complementation between temperature-sensitive mutants of Sindbis virus.

Abstract Eleven temperature-sensitive mutants of Sindbis virus were classified according to their ability to complement other mutants in pairwise mixed infections at a non-permissive temperature. Five nonoverlapping complementation groups were thus defined. In two groups the temperature-sensitive function is required for viral RNA synthesis, while mutants of the other three groups are unable to carry out some essential step occurring after viral RNA synthesis. The progeny produced by complementation were found, in general, to include both the genomes used to initiate the mixed infection; these progeny particles were phenotypically mixed in a manner that suggests exclusion of mutationally altered protein from rescued particles.
What does it look like and what can it do? Category structure influences how infants categorize.

Despite a large body of research demonstrating the kinds of categories to which infants respond, few studies have directly assessed how infants' categorization unfolds over time. Four experiments used a visual familiarization task to evaluate 10-month-old infants' (N=98) learning of exemplars characterized by commonalities in appearance or function. When learning exemplars with a common function, infants initially responded to the common feature, apparently forming a category, and only learned the individual features with more extensive familiarization. When learning exemplars with a common appearance, infants initially learned the individual features and apparently only formed a category with more extensive familiarization. The results are discussed in terms of models of category learning.