cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multi-way graph partition by stochastic probe

Abstract For a given graph G with vertex and edge weights, we partition the vertices into subsets to minimize the total weights for edges crossing the subsets under the constraint that the vertex weights are evenly distributed among the subsets. We adapt simulated annealing and tabu search to solve this problem based on a unique solution neighborhood design compromising aggressiveness and running time for each move. A new general optimization paradigm called stochastic probe is then proposed to integrate the advantages of both the aggressive searches and the stochastic searches. Extensive experimental study shows that all of our three new algorithms produce significantly better solutions than the LPK algorithm, and our stochastic probe algorithm always produces the best solution among all the four algorithms with a running time comparable with that for the LPK algorithm.
Cellular Vacuoles Induced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae CARDS Toxin Originate from Rab9-Associated Compartments

Recently, we identified an ADP-ribosylating and vacuolating cytotoxin in Mycoplasma pneumoniae designated Community Acquired Respiratory Distress Syndrome (CARDS) toxin. In this study we show that vacuoles induced by recombinant CARDS (rCARDS) toxin are acidic and derive from the endocytic pathway as determined by the uptake of neutral red and the fluid-phase marker, Lucifer yellow, respectively. Also, we demonstrate that the formation of rCARDS toxin-associated cytoplasmic vacuoles is inhibited by the vacuolar ATPase inhibitor, bafilomycin A1, and the ionophore, monensin. To examine the ontogeny of these vacuoles, we analyzed the distribution of endosomal and lysosomal membrane markers during vacuole formation and observed the enrichment of the late endosomal GTPase, Rab9, around rCARDS toxin-induced vacuoles. Immunogold-labeled Rab9 and overexpression of green fluorescent-tagged Rab9 further confirmed vacuolar association. The late endosomal- and lysosomal-associated membrane proteins, LAMP1 and LAMP2, also localized to the vacuolar membranes, while the late endosomal protein, Rab7, and early endosomal markers, Rab5 and EEA1, were excluded. HeLa cells expressing dominant-negative (DN) Rab9 exhibited markedly reduced vacuole formation in the presence of rCARDS toxin, in contrast to cells expressing DN-Rab7, highlighting the importance of Rab9 function in rCARDS toxin-induced vacuolation. Our findings reveal the unique Rab9-association with rCARDS toxin-induced vacuoles and its possible relationship to the characteristic histopathology that accompanies M. pneumoniae infection.
John Muir, Yosemite, and the sublime response: A study in the rhetoric of preservationism

In 7890, two essays by John Muir greatly influenced the establishment of Yosemite National Park, and greatly advanced the movement for the preservation of wilderness reserves. Muir used two techniques, the sublime response and the persona of the mountaineer, to secure his readers’ action on behalf of natural scenery.
Subnanosecond-pulse generation at 308 and 450 nm by truncated stimulated Brillouin scattering

Narrow-linewidth radiation has been used to generate pulses of ∼200-psec duration by the combined effects of stimulated Brillouin scattering and competing nonlinear processes.
The Fading of Some Traditional Pigments as A Function of Relative Humidity

As part of a project sponsored by the Getty Conservation Institute to investigate the effects of humidity and temperature on photochemically induced deterioration, the influence of relative humidity on the rates of fading of four traditional artists' pigments has been investigated: carmine lake, gamboge, alizarin lake, and Vandyke brown.
Effects of Dilevalol on Renal Function

Renal function was measured in a total of 35 volunteers and patients who were given dilevalol, the R,R optical isomer of labetalol. Young normotensive volunteers (n = 6) and elderly normotensive volunteers (n = 12) received single 400- and 200-mg doses of dilevalol, respectively. Renal function was determined in these subjects on the same day before and after dosing. In addition, patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension (n = 11) and hypertensive patients with renal insufficiency (n = 6) were treated with placebo to establish baseline blood pressure and then were given dilevalol, 400 to 1,600 mg/day, for 2 to 6 weeks until blood pressure was controlled. Renal function was determined at the end of the baseline period and again at the end of dilevalol treatment. A subgroup of elderly hypertensives from the 2 protocols used to study hypertensive patients was treated as a separate study group. The only effect on parameters of renal function seen in any of the study groups was a statistically significant 15% decrease in glomerular filtration rate after single-dose treatment in the elderly normotensive group. Effective renal plasma flow, filtration fraction, renal blood flow and renal vascular resistance were unchanged before and after treatment in all groups. Mean arterial pressure was reduced significantly in all groups except in the elderly normotensive volunteers. Dilevalol appears to be a well-tolerated, effective therapeutic agent that is neutral regarding its effect on renal function and potentially useful in a variety of patient populations.
Solar electron bursts at very low energies: Evidence for acceleration in the high corona?

[1] More than 280 impulsive solar electron bursts, largely associated with type III radio bursts, have been observed by the solar wind experiment on ACE at energies below 1.4 keV. Here we illustrate some of the characteristics of these events with detailed observations of a particularly intense and long-lasting (>19 hours) event that extended smoothly as a power law in energy down to at least 142 eV. Such low-energy extensions of burst spectra may be evidence that the electrons in these bursts are accelerated at altitudes considerably greater than 1 solar radius above the photosphere. If so, then other characteristics of these events make it appear unlikely that the bursts result from shock acceleration. An alternate possibility is that acceleration actually occurs relatively low in the corona, as would be inferred from observations of type III bursts, and is followed by a more gradual release of electrons to the heliosphere.
Home range criteria based on temporal stability of areal occupation

Abstract Home range is often defined as the area normally occupied by an animal. Such definitions fail to identify temporal stability of areal occupation as the basis for determining presence of home range. Several ambiguities in the most widely quoted definition are noted and criteria are developed for specifying presence or absence of home range under various conditions of areal change. Application of the criteria requires considerable data, but such data are also required to increase the accuracy of home range measurement.
Low and high cycle fatigue—a continuum supported by AFM observations

It is proposed that fatigue damage evolution is controlled by surface displacements and these can be accurately measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM). As these displacements can be followed throughout the history of a fatigued component, the fatigue process in general represents a continuum of behavior. In 10 and 200 {micro}m grain size titanium, AFM measurements demonstrate that the fraction of plasticity contributing to surface damage can be expressed as a single function over nearly five decades of cycles. Regarding this function, the effect of grain size appears to be small. In terms of damage accumulation rates, cyclic hardening parameters, and the threshold stress intensity, the proposed model represents a microstructurally-sensitive Manson-Coffin law for fatigue initiation. Coupling this with a more standard fracture mechanics approach for the latter stage of life allows a simple expression for life prediction. Over the range of 10{sup 3}--10{sup 6} cycles, this expression predicts fatigue life of titanium exposed to air and saline environments to first order.
The Impact of Caregiving on the Psychological Well-Being of Family Caregivers and Cancer Patients

Objectives To provide an overview of patient and caregiver emotional distress; examine the sources of their distress, review evidence-based interventions that can reduce distress, and provide guidelines for assessment and intervention. Data Sources Peer-reviewed publications. Conclusion There is a significant, reciprocal relationship between patient and caregiver emotional distress. Sources of distress vary by phase of illness. Evidence-based interventions can reduce distress and anxiety, but often are not implemented in practice. Implications for Nursing Practice Nurses need to assess patients and family caregivers for distress and intervene to reduce distress by fostering patient-caregiver teamwork, communication, and self-care; providing information; and referring to resources as needed.
High-Risk Populations for Vision Loss and Eye Care Underutilization: A Review of the Literature and Ideas on Moving Forward

Abstract Much work has been done to highlight and understand the significant disparities in the use of eye care services, but they continue to exist. We review the existing literature on utilization in high-risk populations to provide a context for understanding what “high-risk” means, to understand the utilization patterns among high-risk populations, and to highlight barriers to appropriate eye care utilization. We also discuss potential approaches to reduce these disparities.
Applications of emerging parallel optical link technology to high energy physics experiments

Modern particle detectors depend upon optical fiber links to deliver event data to upstream trigger and data processing systems. Future detector systems can benefit from the development of dense arrangements of high speed optical links emerging from the telecommunications and storage area network market segments. These links support data transfers in each direction at rates up to 120 Gbps in packages that minimize or even eliminate edge connector requirements. Emerging products include a class of devices known as optical engines which permit assembly of the optical transceivers in close proximity to the electrical interfaces of ASICs and FPGAs which handle the data in parallel electrical format. Such assemblies will reduce required printed circuit board area and minimize electromagnetic interference and susceptibility. We will present test results of some of these parallel components and report on the development of pluggable FPGA Mezzanine Cards equipped with optical engines to provide to collaborators on the Versatile Link Common Project for the HI-LHC at CERN.
Effects of long-term phenobarbital treatment on the liver in dogs.

Long-term administration of phenobarbital has been reported to cause hepatic injury in dogs. Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzymes, and it may be difficult to distinguish the effect of enzyme induction on serum liver enzyme activities from actual hepatic damage. The hepatotoxicity of phenobarbital and the impact of enzyme induction on serum liver enzyme activity were investigated prospectively in 12 normal dogs. Phenobarbital was administered for 29 weeks at 5 mg per kilogram of body weight (range, 4.8-6.6 mg/kg) PO q12h, resulting in therapeutic serum phenobarbital concentrations (20-40 microg/mL). Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), fasted bile acids (fBA), total bilirubin, and albumin were determined before and during treatment. Lateral abdominal radiographs, abdominal ultrasounds, and histopathologic examinations of liver tissue obtained by ultrasound-guided biopsy were performed before and during treatment. Radiographs revealed a moderate increase in liver size in most dogs. Ultrasonographic examination revealed no change in liver echogenicity or architecture. No evidence of morphologic liver damage was observed histopathologically. ALP and ALT increased significantly (P < .05), GGT increased transiently, and albumin decreased transiently during the study. There were no significant changes in AST, bilirubin, and fBA. These results suggest that increases in serum ALP, ALT, and GGT may reflect enzyme induction rather than hepatic injury during phenobarbital treatment in dogs. Serum AST, fBA, and bilirubin, and ultrasonographic evaluation of the liver are not affected by the enzyme-inducing effect of phenobarbital and can therefore be helpful to assess liver disease in dogs treated with the drug.
Chronic myelocytic leukemia in infantsiblings

Chronic myelocytic leukemia is uncommon in childhood. The familial occurrence of thisdisease has not been reported in children. Two sets of infant siblings with the juvenile, Philadelphia chromosome negative (Ph 1− ) form of chronic myelocytic leukemia have been observed. The clinical, histological, and cytological features of their disease are described and discussed.
Interlaboratory Development of an Integrated Circuit for Multiwire Proportional Chambers

Progress has been made toward developing a special TTL hybrid integrated circuit for proportional wire chambers. Two manufacturers, Fairchild and Texas Instruments, both appear close to completing a satisfactory circuit. Deliveries of hybrid prototypes will require probably 6 to 8 weeks after final approval of the breadboards.
Simulating Agricultural Conversion to Residential use in the Hudson River Valley: Scenario Analyses and Case Studies

Land use changes threaten agricultural land. If agricultural land is going to be preserved, the social and economic causes of conversion must be understood. However, analyzing the causes of agricultural conversion is complex because trends need to be documented before analyzing the causes. One of the leading uses of agricultural land is for residential purposes. This paper projects residential development in a Hudson River Valley watershed within Dutchess County in New York State using an integrated modeling framework consisting of an econometric model, a geographic information system (GIS), and Monte Carlo simulation. The econometric model is used to project residential development, providing parcel-specific probabilities of residential development. The GIS is employed to extract socio-economic and county-level tax parcel data to be used in conjunction with bio-geophysical attributes, such as slope, soil, and location, to calculate and project growth trends on a residential level for undeveloped land parcels. Monte Carlo simulation is used to distribute these projections into the GIS to display outcomes of scenario analyses to provide policy-makers a demonstration of how policies would likely affect the agricultural landscape of the watershed.
A probabilistic approach to the structure of rental housing markets

Abstract A probabilistic view of the structure of urban housing markets is developed. The demand side is based on aggregate probabilistic demand functions derived from microbehavioral random utility theory. The supply side examines the short-run pricing of the housing stock by developing “asking rent theory,” which explains how a housing supplier must find the optimal rent that maximizes expected revenue. Next, concepts of aggregate market clearing and market equilibrium are defined. Finally, a two-submarket model with specific assumptions regarding the representation of demand and the nature of market signaling is examined in detail and is given a graphical illustration. In closing, directions for extending the probabilistic approach both within and beyond urban analysis are pointed out. All analysis in this paper is for a stationary urban economy, with the housing stock assumed fixed.
Theory of Atomic Collisions with Negative Ions: Associative Detachment

In this paper we consider the problem of atomic collisions with negative ions and give special attention to the rearrangement process of associative electron detachment. After the various possible processes, the interaction potentials, and the related problems of potential curves are described physically, a theoretical formulation of the problem is presented, ranging from general formalism to explicit formulas for the reaction cross section and the rate coefficient. In the general formalism, transition matrices are derived for direct and resonance reactions as well as for potential and resonance scatterings. The process of associative detachment is then treated explicitly, using these derived expressions. It is shown that because of the configuration interaction of the electronic motion with continua, the nuclear motion is taking place in a complex potential. The propagation of a nuclear state in such a complex potential is treated in some detail. Various implications of the derived theoretical results are discussed in connection with experimental observations.
Movement and spatial organization of small mammals following vertebrate predator exclusion

Predation directly changes the demographics of prey, generally through a numerical decrease. An indirect effect of predators is alteration of movements and spatial patterns of prey. The relationship between these direct and indirect effects can be tested by excluding predators. Home range size of white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) decreased and home range overlaps increased in the absence of predators. Home range size and overlaps of meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) did not change despite an increase in vole density. P. leucopus had significantly lower interspecific home range overlaps with M. pennsylvanicus than intraspecific overlaps. The changes in P. leucopus spatial behavior may be an indirect effect of predator exclusion resulting from the increase in M. pennsylvanicus densities.
PUBLIC ASSISTANCE EFFECTIVENESS BY STATES

Interstate differences in welfare program effectiveness are a function of policy and attiude variables, fiscal effort, and state and local willingness to assume welfare burdens. Not all states rece...
Size exclusion high-performance liquid chromotography of water-extractable proteins from hot-processed, electrically stimulated pork carcasses.

The effects of electrical stimulation (ES) on both hot-processed, brine-chilled (BC) and conventionally processed (CON) pork loins were evaluated. Protein solubility changes from water extracts of treated pork longissimus were monitored by size exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography (SEC/HPLC) and the biuret protein reaction. Molecular weight profiles (SEC/HPLC) of water extracts from treated longissimus showed four major peaks that represent proteins with molecular weights greater than 10,000 daltons which were affected by ES. Electrical stimulation led to a decrease in the amount of proteins observed in these four peaks when the conventional method of chilling was employed. At the same time, an increase in smaller molecular weight compounds were observed (compounds < 10,000 daltons). Extractable biuret positive compounds showed no significant changes due to ES or method of chilling.
High-frequency phase-locked loops in monolithic bipolar technology

Circuit design techniques for realizing high-frequency, low-power phase-locked loops (PLLs) in monolithic silicon bipolar technology are discussed. A varactor-tuned voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), an analog phase detector, and a bandgap reference have been utilized as building blocks. A test circuit fabricated in a 2- mu m bipolar process exhibited a maximum center frequency of 350 MHz, and the PLL pull-in range was larger than +or-1%. The circuit operates from a 5-V supply and dissipates 270 mW. >
Deficits in set-shifting ability in nonclinical compulsive checkers

Recent studies suggest deficits in set-shifting ability in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as measured by tasks such as the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST; Berg, 1948). The present study examined the extent to which these deficits were demonstrated by nonclinical subjects selected on the basis of their checking scores on the Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Inventory. A multivariate analysis revealed that frequent checkers performed significantly worse on the WCST than noncheckers, making more total errors and more perseverative errors and requiring more time to complete the test. A follow-up analysis on a subset of the original sample found similar performance deficits in checkers. While the poorer performance of checkers could be statistically accounted for by anxiety during the first administration of the WCST, anxiety could not explain the relationship between checking status and WCST performance at follow-up. Therefore, there does appear to be some relationship between checking status and WCST performance beyond what can be explained by affective variables.
Analysis and management of geriatric anxiety.

In this essay, the prevalence, negative health implications, and clinical management of geriatric anxiety are reviewed. Despite disproportionately high rates of anxiety amongst the elderly, little research effort has been directed at this problem. An interactive model of geriatric anxiety is proposed, whereby physical disease and anxiety processes enter into reciprocal stimulation as a function of 1) diminished capacity to withstand stress, and 2) hypervigilance of stress symptomatology. To date, pharmacotherapy has been virtually the sole approach to managing geriatric anxiety, although special hazards accrue to the elderly when anxiolytics are used. Potentially useful psychological treatments including relaxation, cognitive restructuring, activity structuring, and prevention are outlined. It is concluded that the potential human and financial rewards of increased understanding and control of geriatric anxiety are substantial.
Evaluating patency rates of an ultralow-porosity expanded polytetrafluoroethylene covered stent in the treatment of venous stenosis in arteriovenous dialysis circuits.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of an ultralow-porosity expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) covered stent in the treatment of autogenous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and prosthetic arteriovenous graft (AVG) venous outflow stenoses. Materials and Methods Clinical and angiographic outcomes of 20 consecutive patients with arteriovenous dialysis circuits treated with the endoprosthesis were reviewed following institutional review board approval. Patients were followed routinely at 2 months and 6 months after stent placement, or earlier if clinically warranted. The primary endpoint was 2- and 6-month primary treatment area patency. Secondary endpoints included primary circuit patency, primary assisted patency, and secondary patency. Results Eleven patients with AVFs and nine patients with AVGs were treated successfully with the covered stent. Primary treatment area patency rates were 85% ± 16 at both 2 months and 6 months. Primary circuit patency rates were was 65% ± 21 and 45% ± 22, respectively; primary assisted patency rates were 90% ± 13 and 85% ± 16, respectively; and secondary patency rates were 100% and 90% ± 13, respectively. Of the three cases of lost primary treatment area patency, two developed thrombosis and one developed recurrent stenosis. No significant differences were found between patients with AVFs and AVGs. Conclusions Data from this preliminary study suggests that the ultralow-porosity ePTFE covered stent may be a clinically viable option for treatment of venous outflow stenoses in arteriovenous vascular access circuits.
The Influence of Observed Alcohol Consumption on Perceptions of Initiation of Sexual Activity in a College Dating Situation

Corcoran and Bell (1990) found differences between men and women's expectancies for the likelihood of sexual intercourse on a first date depending on how much the other had to drink. The present study examined the subjects' perceptions of likelihood of male and female initiation of sexual intercourse in a story in which the drinking of male or female characters was varied. Subjects read a story of a first date in which one character. either the male or female, consumed a couple of cocktails. The other character either “also had a couple of cocktails.”“drank soft drinks,” or “became slightly intoxicated.” A manipulation check showed that the subjects were responding to story variables in their ratings of characters intoxication. Men were perceived to be more likely than women to initiate intercourse across all drinking conditions, although results indicate that all subjects believed that sexual activity was more likely to be initiated when story characters consumed alcohol rather than soft drinks. These results further demonstrated that this expectancy for initiation of sex appears to be triggered by the presence of alcohol and did not significantly increase for a higher dose of alcohol. More research is necessary to clarify the role of alcohol in sexuality among adolescents and young adults.
Naloxone sensitivity in squirrel monkeys under a schedule of shock titration

In order to explore the conditions under which sensitivity to naloxone develops, naloxone's effects were examined in squirrel monkeys responding under a discrete trial schedule of shock titration. Naloxone's effects were examined prior to and following a chronic naloxone regimen in which 10 mg/kg of naloxone was administered daily for at least 21 days. The level at which monkeys maintained the shock and rates of responding were recorded. Prior to chronic administration, selective doses (1.0, 3.0 mg/kg) of naloxone decreased shock levels slightly. These decreases were accompanied by increases in response rates. Subsequent to chronic administration, shock levels were unaltered; however, rates of responding showed greater increases. These results suggest that, following chronic naloxone exposure, animals responding under a schedule of shock titration became more sensitive to the rate-increasing effects of naloxone, but not to naloxone's effects on shock intensity.
An on-line model based topographic search of system failures

Abstract Expert human operators perform failure detection and trouble shooting of complex industrial systems on a daily basis. They use three main failure detection techniques: signal validation, symptomatic diagnosis and topographic search. Since failure detection has been recognized as one of the functions where computers and human operators can complement one another, researchers have addressed the development of computer failure detection schemes. Most of the current computer schemes, however, perform signal validation and symptomatic diagnosis, only. This paper introduces a computer scheme for a topographic search of failures. The scheme utilizes a causal description model to locate the faulty subsystems. A computer simulation and the scheme's implementation on an actual system demonstrate its failure detection capabilities.
Benzodiazepines decrease grooming in response to novelty but not ACTH or β-endorphin

Abstract Excessive grooming in response to intracerebroventricular (ICV) ACTH 1–24 was assayed following various doses of diazepam, chlordiazepoxide and flurazepam. Grooming scores were only affected by doses of the benzodiazepines higher than those that depressed locomotor activity. Similarly, diazepam did not affect excessive grooming induced by ICV β-endorphin, nor did chronic chlordiazepoxide affect ACTH-induced grooming. By contrast similar doses of the benzodiazepines decreased the increased grooming score observed when mice were observed in a novel as opposed to the home cage. This result is consistent with the hypothesis that novel cage-induced grooming is caused by an increase in the ventricular content of ACTH or β-endorphin, and that the benzodiazepines decrease or prevent this increase. It is not consistent with hypotheses of a functional antagonism between ACTH and benzodiazepines, at least insofar as the mechanisms involved in the production of grooming are concerned.
Design, power, and interpretation of studies in the standard murine model of ALS

Identification of SOD1 as the mutated protein in a significant subset of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) cases has led to the generation of transgenic rodent models of autosomal domin...
GPM Microwave Imager on-orbit radiometric calbration using a satellite deep space calibration maneuver

The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) is designed to be the radiometric calibration standard for a group of satellites with passive microwave instruments known as the GPM constellation. Because GMI is the transfer standard, it is crucial to vet its calibration accuracy in an extensive post-launch Calibration/Validation campaign. One important element of this campaign is a special set of satellite maneuvers known as Deep Space Calibration (DSC). During the DSC maneuver, the satellite pitch attitude is adjusted to cause the microwave instrument to view space, which is an isotropic non-polarized scene of known brightness temperature. Because of the delay in the GPM launch and the associated DSC, this paper focuses on the predecessor TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) DSC maneuvers to gain insight into the GMI DSC results.
The Effects of Droplet Size and Injection Orientation on Water Mist Suppression of Low and High Boiling Point Liquid Pool Fires

This paper presents the results of an experimental parametric study of water mist suppression of large-scale liquid pool fires. The experiments were conducted with 50cm diameter pan heptane and JP8 pool fires. Mist was injected into the fire from the base at 90° and 45° and from the top at 90°. The results show that base injection of droplets enhanced their suppression effectiveness by as much as two times. Secondly, optimum suppression effectiveness is obtained with small droplets injected at the base of the fire. This is because the droplets evaporated quickly within the lower region of the fire where a greater effect of oxygen dilution and water vapor higher heat capacity is fully realized. Finally, a comparison of the results with the two fuels show that water mist is more effective in suppressing the JP8 fires than the heptane fires. It is concluded that the additional effects of direct surface cooling contributed significantly to the observed difference.
Granular cell tumour of the larynx

Granular cell tumour (GCT) is a benign tumour with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm filled with granules of varying sizes. These granules are the defining characteristic of the GCT and are believed to represent lysosomes in varying stages of fragmentation. The commonly used term granular cell myoblastoma, found in the older literature, is a misnomer because the tumour is clearly not of muscle origin. Among the major theories of origin, some support the tumour's derivation from neuronal tissue, histiocytes, fibroblast or Schwann cells. In the larynx, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia may predispose to confuse the GCT with squamous cell carcinoma. The most common region of GCT is in the head and neck, accounting for approximately 30 to 50 per cent of all lesions. The larynx is relatively an uncommon location for these tumours, accounting for approximately three to 10 per cent of the reported cases. Affected patients typically present with persistent hoarseness, stridor, haemoptysis, dysphagia, and otalgia, but the tumour may be asymptomatic and be discovered only incidentally during a routine examination. Complete excision with an attempt to maintain normal structures generally results in cure. We present the case of a patient with typical features of a GCT of the larynx. The gross appearance, histopathology and brief discussion of the current literature are also presented.
Comprehension and memory of prose materials by young and old adults.

Abstract Twenty-seven young (x = 27.3 years) and twenty-seven old (x = 67.7 years) female volunteers participated in a study of the effect of vocabulary level upon memory and comprehension of prose materials. Comprehension was measured by presenting five multiple choice questions simultaneously with half of the prose passages. Memory was measured with the rest of the materials by presenting questions only after a passage was completed and removed from sight. The results indicated that age-related differences varied inversely with vocabulary levels but did not interact with type of task. No significant differences were found between age groups at the highest vocabulary level. The parallel findings for the two tasks suggest that inadequate comprehension represents one major factor underlying age-related differences in the retention of meaningful materials. A second memory task, not dependent upon accuracy of comprehension, indicated age-related differences at all vocabulary levels. This suggests that old ad...
Hydrogen Bonding, and Microvoids in a-Si:H: a Proton NMR Study

The cw proton NMR spectra, spin lattice relaxation times Tx and free induction decay times T*2 were measured in various a-Si:H films deposited by rf-sputtering. All spectra exhibited broad and narrow components, of T*2 ~ 20 and 45 μsec, respectively. In samples deposited at high rf power, the ratio of the integrated intensities of the broad and narrow lines was ~ 1.5. These samples, which apparently contain mainly bulk monohydride bonds and a low volume fraction of microvoids, exhibit long-range H motion. In a sample deposited at low rf power, this ratio was ~ 3. These samples, which contain significant dihydride and microvoid content, show a dramatic suppression of the long-range H motion. The T1 of both types of samples exhibits a clear minimum at ~ 30 K, indicative of relaxation by H2 trapped in microvoids. The absolute values of T1, however, are smaller in the sample deposited at low rf power (0.1 sec at the minimum as opposed to 0.3 to 1.0 sec at the minimum), apparently due to a larger ratio of molecular hydrogen to bonded hydrogen. After annealing for 24 hours at 294°C, the ratio of broad-to-narrow components increases to > 10 in all samples, and the magnitudes of the T1 minima increase to about 1 sec in all samples.
Singular perturbation theory for homoclinic orbits in a class of near-integrable dissipative systems

This paper presents a new unified theory of orbits homoclinic to resonance bands in a class of near-integrable dissipative systems. It describes three sets of conditions, each of which implies the existence of homoclinic or heteroclinic orbits that connect equilibria or periodic orbits in a resonance band. These homoclinic and heteroclinic orbits are born under a given small dissipative perturbation out of a family of heteroclinic orbits that connect pairs of points on a circle of equilibria in the phase space of the nearby integrable system. The result is a constructive method that may be used to ascertain the existence of orbits homoclinic to objects in a resonance band, as well as to determine their precise shape, asymptotic behavior, and bifurcations in a given example. The method is a combination of the Melnikov method and geometric singular perturbation theory for ordinary differential equations.
Mucin Glycoprotein Degradation by Mucin Oligosaccharide-degrading Strains of Human Faecal Bacteria. Characterisation of Saccharide Cleavage Products and their Potential Role in Nutritional Support of Larger Faecal Bacterial Populations

A subset of normal human faecal bacteria composed of niucin oligosaccharide-degrading (MOD) strains appears to be the principal source of intraluminal, extracellular glycosidases degrading the oligosaccharides of gut mucin glycoproteins and epithelial membrane glycoconjugates. Here we report studies characterising the saccharides released from hog gastric mucin during incubation with the extracellular enzymes in their cell-free culture supernates. We have also tested the ability of the saccharide products to support growth of larger populations of faecal bacteria. Gel exclusion chromatography of the residual mucin following bacterial growth in mucin-containing medium confirmed that MOD strains extensively degraded the carhohydrate moieties (60-96 per cent) whereas strains of bacteroides and bifidobacteria of larger faecal populations degraded the carbohydrate moieties less extensively (median loss, 29 per cent; range 8-42 per cent). Saccharides released from hog gastric niucin by MOD strain enzymes were identified by biochemical and NMR spectroscopic methods as galactose, fucose. N -acetylglucosamine. N -acetylgalactosamine and the disaccharides GalβGalNAc and Galβ3GlcNAc. Larger oligosaccharides were not recovered. Carbon-13 NMR spectra of the residual mucin were consistent with complete removal of some but not all oligosaccliaride chains. The monosaccharides but not the disaccharides were also recovered following incubation of mucin with the sterile cell-free supernate of a heavily inoculated faecal culture. Saccharides released from hog gastric mucin by partially purified culture supernate enzyincs from Ruminococcus torques strain IX-70 were 70-98 per cent utilised by larger populations of faecal bacteria during growth in culture. Bacteria growing from 1 x 10 -10 g faecal inocula from five subjects showed minimal growth in media containing intact hog gastric mucin but grew well if the mucin-containing medium was preincubated with a sterile enzyme preparation from R. torques IX-70. We conclude that glycosidases produced by MOD strains can serve a nutritionally supportive role for larger populations of enteric bacteria, especially during fasting. Keywords: Mucins; Glycoproteins; Enteric bacteria; Microbial ecology; Ruminococcus ; Bifidobacterium .
Viscoelastic Model to Describe Mechanical Response of Bituminous Sealants at Low Temperature

To establish a clear understanding of the behavior of hot-poured bituminous-based crack sealants at low service temperature and to predict their field performance, the constitutive stress-strain relationship must be described. The description of this relationship would allow accurate prediction of crack sealants' field responses to thermal and traffic loading. The objective of this paper is to describe crack sealant constitutive behavior at low temperature by linear viscoelastic modeling (Prony series expansion). The suggested model was fitted to creep measurements obtained from a modified bending beam rheometer test setup. The experimental program included testing of three soft crack sealants having a relatively high level of polymer modification content at a temperature ranging from —28°C to —40°C. A Prony series expansion was fitted to the experimental results. To determine the time-dependent responses of crack sealants to a constant creep load, the fitted material parameters were incorporated into a t...
The Epidemiology of Diseases of the Hip: A Review of the Literature

Diseases of the hip are significant public health problems. Fractures and osteoarthrosis of the hip are common in older age-groups, while congenital dislocation of the hip, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and slipped epiphysis affect a certain proportion of infants, children, and adolescents. The distribution of these five common hip diseases in the population is reviewed, aetiological hypotheses are discussed, and gaps in knowledge identified. Particular attention is focused on the roles of mechanical stress and hormones, since there is evidence for the involvement of one or both of these factors in the aetiology of each of the diseases. Many characteristics of their descriptive epidemiology have still to be explained, however, and it is clear that more research is needed.
Mace: language support for building distributed systems

Building distributed systems is particularly difficult because of the asynchronous, heterogeneous, and failure-prone environment where these systemsmust run. Tools for building distributed systems must strike a compromise between reducing programmer effort and increasing system efficiency. We present Mace, a C++ language extension and source-to-source compiler that translates a concise but expressive distributed system specification into a C++ implementation. Mace overcomes the limitations of low-level languages by providing a unified framework for networking and event handling, and the limitations of high-level languages by allowing programmers to write program components in a controlled and structured manner in C++. By imposing structure and restrictions on how applications can be written, Mace supports debugging at a higher level, including support for efficient model checking and causal-path debugging. Because Mace programs compile to C++, programmers can use existing C++ tools, including optimizers, profilers, and debuggers to analyze their systems.
Determinants of and dilemmas related to inquiry-based science activities using handheld computers and probeware in Benin, West Africa

The SMART IMPACT project introduced handheld computers and probeware to Benin secondary science teachers to explore their attitudes toward technology integration in inquiry-based science, conditions under which handheld technology and probeware can be used for inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking, and the impact on student learning. Sixteen physical science teachers were selected from ten secondary public schools in one of Benin's urban areas. Results show that introducing handheld-based science activities in Benin may run into obstacles such as a lack of tools, inadequate facilities, and lack of funding. In addition, Benin science teachers do not study innovative technologies as part of their teacher preparation program, and lack pedagogical and technological skills needed to engage students in using new technologies. Efforts to integrate technology into science must combine adequate technology resources with professional development for educational leaders, curriculum developers, and teachers.
Pyoderma gangrenosum versus chronic venous ulceration: comparison of diagnostic features.

Background:Diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum can be difficult, leading to overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis.Objective:To identify clinical features helpful in establishing a diagnosis of pyoderma gan...
Induction of noncatalytic TrkB neurotrophin receptors during axonal sprouting in the adult hippocampus

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its signal transducing receptor, the TrkB tyrosine protein kinase, are expressed at high levels in the hippocampus of the adult brain, suggesting a role for BDNF mechanisms in neuronal plasticity. To test this hypothesis, we used defined lesions of perforant path and fimbria-fornix, two major hippocampal afferents, to remove synapses on dendrites of dentate gyrus granule cells and pyramidal cells of Ammon9s horn and induce synaptic rearrangements. These combined lesions remove afferent connections from entorhinal cortex and septum and produce massive sprouting of axons of the commissural/associational pathways into the molecular layer of the hippocampal dentate gyrus. At days 1, 3, and 6, the lesions decreased BDNF mRNA expression ipsilaterally to approximately 50% of control, with complete recovery at 14 d. The lesions did not alter trkB mRNA levels in neuronal layers of the hippocampus; however, they resulted in a pronounced induction of trkB mRNA expression in hippocampal non- neuronal cells 6–14 d after lesioning. The induction corresponded in time and place to the synaptic reorganization in the lesioned hippocampus. The mRNA species newly induced by the lesions corresponded to those transcripts encoding the noncatalytic TrkB receptor isoform that lacks the cytoplasmic protein kinase domain. Expression of mRNAs coding for neurotrophin-3 and the TrkC tyrosine protein kinase were not altered by the lesions. The findings suggest that truncated noncatalytic TrkB molecules expressed on the surface of glial cells play an important role in plasticity of the adult brain, possibly regulating the concentration of bioactive neurotrophins or the responsiveness of neurotrophin receptors. Alternatively, they may play a role in presenting neurotrophin molecules to growing axons.
A Simple Proof of: L = λW

A simple proof of the fundamental queuing formula L = λW is given that is based on renewal theory. The basic assumptions that are needed are: 1 the event system is empty is recurrent, and 2 the arrival and waiting-time mechanisms are reset by the next arrival after this event occurs.
Computation of vortex sheet roll-up in the Trefftz plane

Two vortex-sheet evolution problems arising in aerodynamics are studied numerically. The approach is based on desingularizing the Cauchy principal value integral which defines the sheet's velocity. Numerical evidence is presented which indicates that the approach converges with respect to refinement in the mesh-size and the smoothing parameter. For elliptic loading, the computed roll-up is in good agreement with Kaden's asymptoic spiral at early times. Some aspects of the solution's instability to short-wavelength perturbations, for a small value of the smoothing parameter, are inferred by comparing calculations performed with different levels of computer round-off error. The tip vortices' deformation, due to their mutual interaction, is shown in a long-time calculation. Computations for a simulated fuselage-flap configuration show a complicated process of roll-up, deformation and interaction involving the tip vortex and the inboard neighboring vortices.
Extracellular deposition of eosinophil granule major basic protein in pressure urticaria

Utilizing affinity chromatography-purified antibody to the eosinophil granule major basic protein and formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue, we investigated the localization of major basic protein by immunofluorescence in twenty-four skin biopsy specimens from ten patients with pressure urticaria. Fourteen of twenty-four biopsy specimens were obtained from spontaneously occurring urticarial lesions of 4 to 48 hours' duration, and ten of the twentyfour specimens were from dermographometer-induced lesions that had been present from 40 minutes to 24 hours. Twenty-one of twenty-four biopsy specimens showed extracellular fluorescence of eosinophil granule major basic protein within the dermis. The extent and intensity of extracellular staining were not related to the presence or degree of tissue eosinophilia. Serial section controls from each block were stained with protein A purified rabbit IgG and were negative. Previous immunofluorescence studies have demonstrated deposition of major basic protein in lesions of chronic idiopathic urticaria, episodic angioedema, and facial edema. Major basic protein causes release of histamine from human basophils and induces wheal-and-flare reactions on intradermal injection. The present observations add further evidence to support a role for eosinophil mediators, particularly major basic protein, in the pathogenesis of cutaneous disease characterized by edema. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1987;16:513-7.)
Tempered fractional Brownian motion

a b s t r a c t Tempered fractional Brownian motion (TFBM) modifies the power law kernel in the moving average representation of a fractional Brownian motion, adding an exponential tempering. Tempered fractional Gaussian noise (TFGN), the increments of TFBM, form a stationary time series that can exhibit semi-long range dependence. This paper develops the basic theory of TFBM, including moving average and spectral representations, sample path properties, and an application to modeling wind speed.