cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cognitive Networks with Dynamic User Classification for Tactical Communications

A novel cognitive radio paradigm for tactical networks is presented. The proposed framework employs a dynamic classification of users into primary and secondary users as a function of time-varying packet priority to enable reliable and timely delivery of critical information generated from users. The stochastic model of the network captures the coupling between the random processes tracking the packet service state of the individual users due to mutual interference and networking protocols. The optimal channel access strategy maximizes the quality of service of packets conveying non-critical information under constraints on the delivery probability of critical information. Numerical results show that the optimal strategy maps the channel access probability onto the packet service and priority state of packets being transmitted by the users. The proposed framework, thus, defines primary and secondary packets, rather than primary and secondary users.
How to write a scientific article

The purpose of this article is to help osteopathic family physicians prepare a scientific article and show all the steps from the rough manuscript to the published paper.
Abnormal development of thymic dendritic and epithelial cells in human X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency

The X-linked form of severe combined immunodeficiency (X-SCID) is caused by mutations in the common cytokine receptor gamma chain and results in lack of T and NK cells and defective B cells. Without immune reconstitution, X-SCID patients typically die from infection during infancy. This report describes thymic epithelial (TE), lymphocyte, and dendritic cell (DC) differentiation in the thymic microenvironment of seven X-SCID patients who died before or after treatment for their immunodeficiency. X-SCID thymus consisted predominately of TE cells without grossly evident corticomedullary distinction. CD3+ and CD1a+ developing T cells and CD83+ thymic DC were reduced >50-fold when compared to age- and gender-matched control thymus (P < 0.001). TE expression of epithelial differentiation markers CK14, involucrin, and high molecular weight cytokeratins also differed in X-SCID versus normal thymus. These histopathologic findings indicate that in addition to T cells, thymic DC development and differentiation of TE cells are also abnormal in X-SCID.
ST-segment elevation: Distinguishing ST elevation myocardial infarction from ST elevation secondary to nonischemic etiologies

The benefits of early perfusion in ST elevation myocardial infarctions (STEMI) are established; however, early perfusion of non-ST elevation myocardial infarctions has not been shown to be beneficial. In addition, ST elevation (STE) caused by conditions other than acute ischemia is common. Non-ischemic STE may be confused as STEMI, but can also mask STEMI on electrocardiogram (ECG). As a result, activating the primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) protocol often depends on determining which ST elevation patterns reflect transmural infarction due to acute coronary artery thrombosis. Coordination of interpreting the ECG in its clinical context and appropriately activating the pPCI protocol has proved a difficult task in borderline cases. But its importance cannot be ignored, as reflected in the 2013 American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association guidelines concerning the treatment of ST elevation myocardial infarction. Multiples strategies have been tested and studied, and are currently being further perfected. No matter the strategy, at the heart of delivering the best care lies rapid and accurate interpretation of the ECG. Here, we present the different patterns of non-ischemic STE and methods of distinguishing between them. In writing this paper, we hope for quicker and better stratification of patients with STE on ECG, which will lead to be better outcomes.
An exploratory analysis of joint-activity participation characteristics using the American time use survey

This paper presents a detailed exploratory analysis of joint activity participation characteristics using the American Time Use Survey (ATUS). As a very large nationwide survey that explicitly elicited information on both household and non-household companions for each activity episode, the ATUS is ideally suited for this analysis. Several intuitive and interesting results are obtained. Joint episodes are found to be of longer durations, significantly likely to take place at the residence of other people, and often confined to certain time periods of the weekday. In addition, important differences in these characteristics are also observed based on activity purpose, companion type, and the day of the week. These findings are intended to provide the basis for the justification of detailed collection of joint activity–travel participation information in household activity–travel surveys, and also as a stimulant for further empirical analysis and modeling of joint activity participation behavior.
In-vivo comparison of gastrointestinal tonometry using the saline technique and a novel automated on-line air device (The Tonocap)

We found a good mean correlation between intestinal luminal PCO2 measured with saline tonometry and the Tonocap. However, the difference between some of the paired measurements may be great enough to be of clinical significance (ie. greater than 8 mmHg). Results of an in-vitro validation study suggest that most of this variation can be attributed to the previously reported imprecision in the measurement of CO2 in saline samples using commercial blood gas analyzers (2).
The distribution of mutagenic activity in red, rose and white wines

Using a modified Salmonella typhimurium TA98 Ames-test system, more than 150 red, white and rose wines were analyzed for direct-acting and microsomal enzyme-enhanced mutagenic activity. The following conclusions were reached from analysis of this wine mutagenicity data base. White and rose wines, as well as grape juices, exhibited little or no detectable direct-acting or microsomal enzyme-enhanced mutagenic activity. However, red wine samples contained highly variable amounts of mutagens, ranging from undetectable to levels 30-fold above the sensitivity limit of the assay system. The variations in red wine mutagenicity were unrelated to grape variety, vintage, aging methods or production region. Hence, individual winery production practices must represent the most significant contribution to the variations observed.
The effects of elevated pH and high salt concentrations on tubulin

The effects of incubating phosphocellulose-purified bovine tubulin at 4 degrees C in nucleotide-free buffers at alkaline pH or at high concentrations of NaCl, KCl, (NH4)2SO4, or NH4Cl have been studied. At pH greater than or equal to 7.5 or at NaCl concentrations greater than or equal to 0.7 M, tubulin releases bound nucleotides irreversibly and loses, with apparent first-order kinetics, the ability to assemble into microtubules. In 0.1 M 1,4-piperazinediethanesulfonic acid buffer, pH 6.9, in the presence of 1.3 M NH4Cl, tubulin undergoes more rapid loss of capacity to assemble than it does in NaCl and KCl, but 1.3 M (NH4)2SO4 causes no detectable change in tubulin after 1-h incubation. Incubation at high pH or at high neutral salt concentrations also causes an apparently irreversible change in the ultraviolet difference spectrum and in the sedimentation velocity profile of tubulin. At elevated salt concentrations a decrease of approximately 10% in the molar ellipticity within the wavelength range 220-260 nm is observed. The changes that occur during 1-h exposure to pH 8.0 can be completely prevented by including 1 mM guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP) or 4 M glycerol in the buffer, but those which occur at pH 9.0 cannot be prevented by these additions. In 1 M NaCl when the ratio of bound guanine nucleotide to tubulin reaches approximately 1.0, tubulin loses the abilities to assemble into microtubules and to bind colchicine. The rate of loss of nucleotide in 2 M NaCl is decreased in the presence of 1 mM GTP, and tubulin is protected almost completely from 1 M NaCl-induced loss of GTP (and retains the ability to exchange [3H]GTP as well) in the presence of bound colchicine. Investigators who anticipate exposing tubulin to buffers of elevated pH or high concentrations of chaotropic salts should be extremely cautious in interpreting the resulting data unless they can demonstrate that irreversible alteration of the protein has not occurred.
Wetting properties of bis(trifluoromethyl)carbinyl acrylate polymers

A series of bis(trifluoromethyl)carbinyl acrylate monomers [Y-C(CF3)2 OCOCHCH2] in which Y is CH3, CH3CH2, CH3CH2CH2, CH3CH2CH2CH2, C6H5, H, F, CF3, N3, CN, and CH3OCH2CH2O, was prepared. Polymers were easily prepared from all of these monomers except where Y = CN, wherein a variety of initiation methods failed to produce high molecular polymer. Wettabilities of the polymer films were examined by means of contact angle measurements by using n-alkane test liquids and water. Values of the dispersion force contribution (γsd) and the polar force contribution (γsp) to the solid surface energy were calculated by employing both geometric and harmonic mean approximations. Values of γsd calculated by either method agreed well with γc (critical surface tension) values determined graphically from contact angle data employing n-alkane test liquids, confirming the suggestion that γc is an approximate measure of the dispersion force contribution to solid surface energy. Values of γsd ranged from 15 dyne/cm (Y = F or CF3) to 25 dyne/cm (Y = C6H5). Values of the polar force contribution to solid surface energy (γsp) varied from 0.6 dyne/cm (Y = CH3CH2CH2CH2) to 3.4 dyne/cm (Y = CH3OCH2CH2O) when calculated by the geometric mean equation. The values of γsp obtained from the harmonic mean equation followed the same trend upon varying substituents, but were larger in value, ranging from 2.9 dyne/cm (Y = CH3CH2CH2CH2) to 7.5 dyne/cm (Y γ CH3OCH2CH2O).
Effects of gender on the cardiac toxicity elicited by chronic ethanol intake in rats.

Experiments were designed to determine if gender influences the cardiac toxicity elicited by chronic high-level ethanol intake. Male and female ethanol-preferring P-rats were allowed free access to drinking water or water containing 25% ethanol for 6 months. Left atrial preparations were then isolated, bathed in Krebs-Henseleit solution (37°C), and used to examine basal contractility at 3.0 Hz stimulation, the force–frequency relationship, and the positive inotropic response to the β-adrenoceptor agonist isoproterenol. Basal contractile function was not affected significantly by ethanol in either gender; however, atria from ethanol-treated male rats displayed diminished contractility compared to control males when measured at slow stimulation frequencies (0.1 and 0.2 Hz), during postrest potentiation (at rest intervals of 20–60 s), and in response to higher concentrations of isoproterenol (≥3 × 10−7 M; EC50 values were not affected). In contrast, female atria showed no effect of chronic ethanol consumption. These data suggest that ethanol consumption diminishes the cardiac reserve in male, but not female rats.
Laparoscopic peritoneal catheter placement: results of a new method in 111 patients.

OBJECTIVE: Although cerebrospinal fluid shunting remains one of the most common neurosurgical procedures, it is fraught with high infection, blockage, and reoperation rates. It has been estimated that the economic cost of ventriculoperitoneal shunting exceeds $1 billion annually. A new laparoscopic technique that eliminates abdominal incisions overlying shunt hardware was applied to 111 patients requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunts in an effort to decrease the morbidity associated with shunting. METHODS: All patients who required ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion were eligible for this surgical technique. Patient selection was based on availability of both surgical teams (general surgery and neurological surgery) at the time of surgery. Using this technique, the distal shunt catheter is tunneled directly from the head into the peritoneal cavity under laparoscopic guidance without a skin incision directly overlying the distal catheter insertion site. Patients were followed prospectively for signs and symptoms related to shunt dysfunction, shunt infection, and incision morbidity. RESULTS: One hundred eleven patients underwent 113 laparoscopic ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgeries between February 2003 and December 2004. The average follow-up period was 21.7 months (range, 12-34 mo). Nearly half of the patients (49%) were discharged the next morning and the majority (81%) was discharged within 2 days of surgery. Overall, 15 patients experienced complications requiring reoperation (13.5%) with a 1-year shunt survival rate of 91%. One patient (0.9%) acquired a new shunt infection, whereas two patients (1.8%) developed recurrence from a previous shunt infection. There were no abdominal incision-related complications. CONCLUSION: This simplified laparoscopic shunt placement technique, which requires no overlying abdominal incisions, can be performed quickly with high shunt survivability and low infection rates. Furthermore, the laparoscopic method has the advantage of fast recovery time, elimination of preperitoneal or misplaced catheters, and decreased abdominal incision morbidity. The procedure can be performed by either a multidisciplinary team or entirely by neurosurgeons.
FETAL TWO-DIMENSIONAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (F2DE): IMPACT ON PRENATAL MANAGEMENT AND POSTNATAL OUTCOME

In a recent 16 month period, 400 women were referred for F2DE. Indications for study were similar to those previously published. Using 8 2DE views and Doppler, when warranted, to better describe anatomic, rhythm or function abnormalities, we obtained complete studies in 95% of those studied.
Measurement of barrier heights of semiconductor/liquid junctions using a transconductance method: Evidence for inversion at n-Si/CH3OH-1,1′-dimethylferrocene+/0 junctions

Transconductance measurements have been used to characterize the space-charge regions of various n-Si/liquid contacts. To perform these measurements, Si electrodes were photolithographically processed to introduce p^+-contact areas into the surface of an n-type Si electrode. The electrical conductance between these p^+ regions was then used to probe the minority carrier concentration in the near-surface region of the n-type Si. Unlike conventional differential capacitance or current-voltage measurements, these transconductance measurements can be performed under near-equilibrium conditions and can be performed in the presence of gaseous ambients or when the sample is in contact with ionically conducting electrolyte solutions. In contact with the electrolyte solutions, faradaic and solid-state conduction pathways were distinguished using ac impedance measurements. The impedance spectra provided clear evidence that contact with Me_2Fc (1,1'-dimethylferrocene)^(+/0) and Fc^(+/0) redox couples in CH_3OH(l)-1.0 M LiClO_4 formed an inversion layer in the n-Si, but that CH_3OH(l)-1.0 M LiClO_4-Me_(10)Fc^(+/0) solutions did not yield an inversion layer. These observations are consistent with prior current-voltage measurements on these junctions. The barrier heights of the n-Si/CH_3OH-Me_2Fc^(+/0) and n-Si/CH_3OH-Fc^(+/0) junctions were determined to be 1.01 and 1.02 V, respectively. These measurements provide new insight into the photoelectrochemical behavior of SI/CH_3OH contacts and provide an alternate method for characterizing the energetics of semiconductor/liquid contacts.
Local/Cervical Block Anesthesia versus General Anesthesia for Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy: What are the Advantages?

Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) under local/cervical block anesthesia (LA) is safe and effective for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT). Advantages of LA versus general anesthesia (GA) for these focused procedures have not been clearly demonstrated. Between 3/01 and 6/04, 177 consecutive patients with primary HPT and positive localization studies underwent MIP. Seventy-three (41%) had surgery under LA while 104 (59%) had GA. Primary endpoints were IV narcotic use, anti-emetic use, nausea, vomiting, and post-operative pain. Patients who had parathyroidectomy under LA were older (64 ± 2 vs. 57 ± 2 years, P = 0.001). Cure and complication rates were identical between the two groups. Patients who had parathyroidectomy under LA required less IV narcotic pain mediation (mean morphine equivalents 11.4 ± 1.3 mg vs. 22.5 ± 1.1 mg; P < 0.001) compared to GA patients. The LA patients had better pain control as shown by lower post-operative peak pain scores (2.9 ± 0.3 vs. 5.0 ± 0.4; P < 0.001) and lower overall pain scores (mean 1.9 ± 0.2 vs. 3.1 ± 0.2; P < 0.001). The LA group required fewer anti-emetic medications compared to the GA patients (mean 0.4 ± 0.1 vs. 1.7 ± 0.1 doses; P < 0.001). Fewer LA patients experienced post-operative nausea (16% vs. 49%; P < 0.001), and vomiting (7% vs. 24%; P = 0.002). Length of stay was similar between the groups (0.4 ± 0 vs. 0.3 ± 0; P = 0.22). In this study the choice of anesthesia did not affect surgical cure rate, morbidity, or length of stay. LA was associated with significantly lower post-operative pain, nausea, and vomiting. LA appears to offer specific advantages more than GA for patients undergoing MIP.
WWW interfaces for runtime relational database applications

Abstract The Alcator C-Mod group has been using an electronic lab notebook based on a relational database since the experiment started in 1991. The software, called logbook, provides a shared lab notebook abstraction for all of the participating scientists. It currently contains more than 37 000 text entries. This application and its underlying database schema are also being used at DIIID and NSTX in the US, and installations at TCV at EPFL and H1 at ANU are in progress. A new WEB based user interface is being developed, modeled on the ENTRY_DISPLAY interface, which was written in IDL™. It provides complete read/write access to the entries table to any authorized user via a WEB browser. This interface places much lower demands on network and computing resources than the IDL/X-Windows based version.
Public Reactions to Obesity-Related Health Campaigns A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Despite numerous obesity-related health campaigns throughout the U.S., public perceptions of these campaigns have not been formally assessed. In addition, several recent publicized campaigns have come under criticism in the popular media for reinforcing stigmatization of obese people. Thus, research in this area is warranted. Purpose To systematically assess public perceptions of recent obesity-related public health campaigns in the U.S. Design RCT. Setting/participants The data were collected online in summer 2012 from a nationally representative sample of American adults (N=1085). Intervention Participants were randomly assigned to view 10 obesity-related health campaigns that were pretested and publicly criticized as being stigmatizing of obese people, or 10 campaigns that contained more-neutral content. Main outcome measures Participants provided evaluations of each of the campaigns regarding the extent to which campaigns were rated to be stigmatizing of obese people, motivating for improving lifestyle behaviors, and promoting of self-efficacy for healthy behavior change. Participants additionally evaluated the appropriateness of the visual content depicted in each campaign. Analysis was completed in 2012. Results Stigmatizing campaigns were no more likely to instill motivation for improving lifestyle behaviors among participants than campaigns that were more neutral (OR=1.095, 95% CI=0.736, 1.630). Stigmatizing campaigns were also rated as inducing less self-efficacy (adjusted mean difference=–0.171 SD, 95% CI=–0.266, –0.076) and having less-appropriate visual content compared to less stigmatizing campaigns (adjusted difference in probability=–0.092, 95% CI=–0.124, –0.059). These findings remained consistent regardless of participants' body weight, and were generally consistent across sociodemographic predictors. Conclusions This study highlights the need for careful selection of language and visual content used in obesity-related health campaigns, and provides support for efforts to portray obese people in a nonstigmatizing manner.
Antistaphylococcal Activity of DX-619, a New Des-F(6)-Quinolone, Compared to Those of Other Agents

The in vitro activity of DX-619, a new des-F(6)-quinolone, was tested against staphylococci and compared to those of other antimicrobials. DX-619 had the lowest MIC ranges/MIC50s/MIC90s (μg/ml) against 131 Staphylococcus aureus strains (≤0.002 to 2.0/0.06/0.5) and 128 coagulase-negative staphylococci (0.004 to 0.25/0.016/0.125). Among strains tested, 76 S. aureus strains and 51 coagulase-negative staphylococci were resistant to ciprofloxacin. DX-619 had the lowest MIC50/MIC90 values against 127 quinolone-resistant staphylococci (0.125/0.5), followed by sitafloxacin (0.5/4), moxifloxacin (2/8), gatifloxacin (4/16), levofloxacin (16/>32), and ciprofloxacin (>32/>32). Raised quinolone MICs were associated with mutations in GyrA (S84L) and single or double mutations in GrlA (S80F or Y; E84K, G, or V) in all S. aureus strains tested. A recent vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) strain (Hershey) was resistant to available quinolones and was inhibited by DX-619 at 0.25 μg/ml and sitafloxacin at 1.0 μg/ml. Vancomycin (except VRSA), linezolid, ranbezolid, tigecycline, and quinupristin-dalfopristin were active against all strains, and teicoplanin was active against S. aureus but less active against coagulase-negative staphylococci. DX-619 produced resistant mutants with MICs of 1 to >32 μg/ml after 32 μg/ml for ciprofloxacin, sitafloxacin, moxifloxacin, and gatifloxacin. DX-619 and sitafloxacin were also more active than other tested drugs against selected mutants and had the lowest mutation frequencies in single-step resistance selection. DX-619 and sitafloxacin were bactericidal against six quinolone-resistant (including the VRSA) and seven quinolone-susceptible strains tested, whereas gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin were bactericidal against 11, 10, 7, and 5 strains at 4× MIC after 24 h, respectively. DX-619 was also bactericidal against one other VRSA strain, five vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus strains, and four vancomycin-intermediate coagulase-negative staphylococci. Linezolid, ranbezolid, and tigecycline were bacteriostatic and quinupristin-dalfopristin, teicoplanin, and vancomycin were bactericidal against two, eight, and nine strains, and daptomycin and oritavancin were rapidly bactericidal against all strains, including the VRSA. DX-619 has potent in vitro activity against staphylococci, including methicillin-, ciprofloxacin-, and vancomycin-resistant strains.
The external consistency of abstract data types

In the definition of an abstract data type, much attention is given to specifying how instances of the type are to behave when they are used as intended. Such specifications are used to guide the choice of a representation for the type, and to verify that an implementation is correct. An equally important task, but one that has been relatively overlooked until now, is to specify clearly what are the circumstances of intended use of the type. These specifications must also be made use of if one is to certify that an implementation will produce the behavior that is anticipated. This paper addresses the specification of the environment and the mode of use to be made of instances of an abstract type, and shows how these can be incorporated into the type definition itself.
Injury and demographic factors predictive of disparities in earnings after spinal cord injury

Abstract Krause JS, Terza JV. Injury and demographic factors predictive of disparities in earnings after spinal cord injury. Objective To identify differences in earnings after spinal cord injury (SCI) attributable to demographic factors, injury severity, and education using a regression model that accounts for employment status, conditional earnings (earnings of those employed only), and unconditional earnings (earnings from employment for all participants with $0 recorded for those unemployed). Design Secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data. Setting A midwestern university hospital and a private hospital in the southeastern United States. Participants Adults with traumatic SCI of at least 2 years duration and under the traditional retirement age of 65 completed mailed surveys (n=615). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Conditional and unconditional earnings. Earnings were measured by a single item that grouped earnings into the following 8 categories: (1) less than $10,000, (2) $10,000 to $14,999, (3) $15,000 to 19,999, (4) $20,000 to 24,999, (5) $25,000 to 34,999, (6) $35,000 to 49,999, (7) $50,000 to 74,999, and (8) $75,000 or more. Results Several factors investigated were significantly associated with employment status (sex, race, age, neurologic level of injury, ambulatory status, years since injury, educational level), but conditional earnings were significantly related to only 3 factors. Higher conditional earnings were obtained by men, non–African Americans, and those with a college degree. Unconditional earnings were significantly higher among those with the following characteristics: male, non–African Americans, age 34 and less, ambulatory, and those who completed some education beyond high school. Conclusions There are substantial differences in the likelihood of postinjury employment as a function of participant characteristics. These disparities are compounded for women, African Americans, and those with less than a college degree by differences in conditional earnings among those employed.
Use of an autologous antigen in the serologic testing of patients with erythema migrans of Lyme disease

Abstract We attempted to detect an early rise in antibody titers to Borrelia burgdorferi in the serum of patients with erythema migrans of Lyme disease by utilizing B. burgdorferi isolates obtained from patients' own skin lesions instead of the B3I reference strain. B. burgdorferi was isolated from nine of 23 skin biopsy specimens submitted for culture. Elevated antibody titers were not detected in any of the 23 acute serum samples by immunofluorescence assay. The antigens derived from patient isolates were no more effective than the reference strain in detecting antibodies in patients with early Lyme disease.
Fracture modeling inputs for a human body model via inference from a risk curve: application for skull fracture potential

A three-step process was developed to estimate fracture criteria for a human body model. The process was illustrated via example wherein skull fracture criteria were estimated for the Ford Human Body Model (FHBM) - a finite element model of a mid-sized human male. The studied loading condition was anterior-to-posterior, blunt (circular/planar) cylinder impact to the frontal bone. In Step 1, a conditional reference risk curve was derived via statistical analysis of the tests involving fractures in a recently-reported dataset (Cormier et al. 2011a). Therein, Cormier et al. authors reported results for anterior-to-posterior dynamic loading of the frontal bone of rigidly-supported heads of male post mortem human subjects, and fracture forces were measured in 22 cases. In Step 2, the FHBM head was used to conduct some underlying model validations relative to the Cormier tests. The model-based Force-at-Peak Stress was found to approximate the test-based Fracture Force. In Step 3, models of Cormier's setup with assumed fracture criteria were made such that they produced the experimentally-observed spread of fracture forces. Moreover, iteration was conducted on the model-based stress and strain fracture criteria (viz., σult and eult). The outcomes were analyzed via the same statistical approach applied in Step 1, and subject to σult ≈ 125 MPa and eult ≈ 2.2%, the model-based risk curve nearly identically recovered the reference test-based risk curve (i.e., PFE-based ≈ 1.03 Preference and R2=0.99). Language: en
Uptake and release of norepinephrine by rat brain tissue fractions prepared by ultrafiltration.

— Isolated nerve endings were removed from crude homogenates of rat brain by Millipore filters of pore size 0-5-0-8 μm. Synaptosomes containing L-[3H]norepinephrine were incompletely removed from a non-ionic medium by 0-8 μm pore filters, but were nearly quantitatively removed from Krebs’medium, as demonstrated by density gradient subcellular distribution. In suspension, synaptosomes accumulated labelled norepinephrine. Catecholamine uptake was active; it was inhibited by ouabain, imipramine, cocaine, β-phenethylamine and amantadine. Bound norepinephrine was released by a high concentration of K+. Nerve endings trapped on ultrafilters behaved very similarly to synaptosomes suspended in Krebs’medium by actively accumulating norepinephrine and serotonin; they also possessed monoamine oxidase activity and norepinephrine was released from them by increased concentrations of K+. Ultrafiltration provides a simple, rapid method of preparing metabolically active synaptosomes.
Crescentic Glomerulonephritis: Immune vs. Nonimmune Mechanisms

An immunopathological study of renal biopsies from 38 patients with glomerulonephritis with greater than 30% crescents was performed. All had evidence of immune deposits in glomeruli: 9 were character
Demand Curves in Theory and in Practice

I. The use of theory in the interpretation of statistical demand curves, 601. — II. The equilibrium analysis; its assumptions; the difficulties of applying it to statistical curves, 603. — III. Dynamic curves interpreted with the time element left in, as (a) paths of equilibrium, on the basis of the equilibrium analysis; (b) moving schedules, with different assumptions. Marshall's view, 608. — IV. A possible application of the static analysis; all time elements eliminated from the statistical curves; Moore's curves and their meaning; dynamic curves not demand curves in the orthodox sense; the concept of elasticity not applicable to such curves; present statistical curves neither dynamic nor static; not to be interpreted in terms of orthodox theory, 614.
Ethical Expertise: The Skill Model of Virtue

Julia Annas is one of the few modern writers on virtue that has attempted to recover the ancient idea that virtues are similar to skills. In doing so, she is arguing for a particular account of virtue, one in which the intellectual structure of virtue is analogous to the intellectual structure of practical skills. The main benefit of this skill model of virtue is that it can ground a plausible account of the moral epistemology of virtue. This benefit, though, is only available to some accounts of virtue. Annas claims that Aristotle rejects this skill model of virtue, and so the model of virtues as a skill that Annas endorses for the modern virtue theory is Socratic.This paper argues that while Aristotle rejects the Socratic model of virtue as a skill, he does not reject the model of virtue as a skill altogether. Annas has mischaracterized Aristotle's position on the skill model, because she has not recognized that Aristotle endorses a different account of the structure of skill than the one put forth by Socrates. In addition, recent research on expertise provides an account of skills very much at odds with the description of skills offered by Annas, but similar to the account endorsed by Aristotle.Contrary to Annas, not only is the skill model of virtue compatible with a neo- Aristotelian account of virtue, but it also appears that basing a skill model of virtue on a Socratic account of virtue is likely to prove unsuccessful.
Diffuse cystitis glandularis Associated with adenocarcinomatous change

Although cystitis glandularis has been considered a premalignant lesion, the instance of cystitis glandularis progression to adenocarcinoma or cystitis glandularis associated with adenocarcinomatous change is rare. This article includes 4 cases of neurogenic bladder with urinary diversion for different periods of time. In the first case with ureterocutaneostomy for twenty-five years diffuse cystitis glandularis with multifocal adneocarcinomatous change developed. The second case with suprapubic cystostomy for twenty-two years had diffuse cystitis glandularis of gastrointestinal type without evidence of malignancy. The other 2 cases with suprapubic cystostomy for merely ten years showed only mild to moderate cystitis glandularis and chronic cystitis with squamous metaplasia, respectively. The extent of cystitis glandularis appeared to correlate with the duration of urinary stasis. Ureterocutaneostomy rendered constant infection of the urinary bladder of the first case because of inadequate drainage. Thus, we assume that the intensity of the infection with a toxic product and virulence of organism may be responsible for the development of adenocarcinoma in this patient. Cystitis glandularis, especially diffuse type, can undergo malignant degeneration under constant irritation, but it is a long-term process.
THE DECAY OF NEPTUNIUM-238

>A study was made of the energy levels of Pu/sup 238/ which are populated by Np/sup 238/ beta decay, by an examination of the Np/sup 238/ conversion electron spectrum in high-resolution beta spectrographs. The general features of the level scheme as previously given were unchanged but several new transitions were observed, with energies of 119.8, 871, 943, 989, and 1034 kev. Two new levels are postulated at 915 and 1034 kev which accommodate all but the 943-kev transition. A possible assignment of the 943-kev transition to the (0+.0) state of the beta vibrational band is discussed. In addition, the weak 885-kev transition from the 2+ state of the gamma -vibrational band to the 4+ state of the ground band was seen and its relative intensity determined. Comparisons were made of the experimental relative transition intensities of the three photons depopulating this band with those predicted from the rules of Alaga et al.; only fair agreement was noted. A discussion is given of the beta decay branchings and log ft values of Np/sup 238/ decay in terms of the postulated characters of the Pu/sup 238/ states and the measured spin of Np/sup 238/. (auth)
From programming environments to environments for designing

Though there have been advances in end-user programming, complex applications still need professional developers. This inspired look at the future of creating complex software explores the shift from programming environments to design environments, discussing environments that help developers satisfy end-users' cognitive needs and help deal with contextual issues such as the aesthetic, practical, and social properties of the application and the users. A strong case is made that design environments will need to provide robust support for communication between developers and end users.
Nonaqueous capillary electrophoretic separation of basic enantiomers using heptakis(2,3-dimethyl-6-sulfato)-β-cyclodextrin

The enantiomers of 40 basic analytes, mostly pharmaceuticals, were separated by nonaqueous capillary electrophoresis in acidic methanol background electrolytes using the sodium salt of heptakis(2,3-dimethyl-6-sulfato)-beta-cyclodextrin (HDMS-beta-CD). The effective mobilities, separation selectivities, and peak resolution values were determined as a function of the HDMS-beta-CD concentration in the 0-40 mM range and were found to follow the theoretical predictions of the charged resolving agent migration model (CHARM model). Fast, efficient enantiomer separations were achieved for a large number of both very hydrophobic and hydrophilic weak bases.
Transport and Deposition of Ellipsoidal Fibers in Subject-Specific Lung Airways

Fine to ultrafine materials, such as spherical particles and fibers with their diverse applications ranging from cosmetics, cleaners and composites to nanomedicine are increasingly ubiquitous in the air we breathe. For example, the unique lung deposition patterns of nanoparticles and their ease-of-migration into the blood stream may cause severe health problems, as discussed by Oberdoerster et al. (2005). In contrast, multifunctional nanoparticles as well as micron fibers are also being used as drug carriers for cancer treatment (Zhang et al., 2011). While the transport and deposition of spherical nanoparticles has been analyzed (Kleinstreuer and Zhang, 2010; among others), the fate of ellipsoidal particles in subject-specific lung airways has hardly been addressed.In this study, the Euler-Lagrange fluid-particle modeling approach (i.e., the Discrete Phase Method solver) has been employed in Fluent 13.0 (ANSYS, Canonsburg, PA). User-supplied C-programs have been added to simulate ellipsoidal fibers transport and orientation effects. The computer simulation model has been validated for fiber transport and deposition in a circular tube (Tian et al., 2012). Additionally, transitional airflow patterns were analyzed and local deposition efficiencies compared for spherical particles and fibers in a realistic human respiratory system. The capability of ellipsoidal fibers migrating into deeper lung regions was indicated and fiber deposition “hot spots” were discussed. The numerical results expand the basic understanding of the dynamics of non-spherical particles in realistic shear flows, and can be used to investigate the fate of inhaled toxic or therapeutic materials.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
String fluid dynamical models in the Einstein-Cartan theory

Using the general, energy-momentum tensor for a dynamical, string fluid developed from the Ray-Hilbert variational principle, physically motivated applications to Riemann-Cartan spacetime are given within the framework of the Einstein-Cartan theory. The string density is considered for the cases when it is or is not a thermodynamical variable of the fluid. Solutions are given for both cases and compared with other models in both general relativity and the Einstein- Cartan theory. The use of a string fluid as a contributer to galactic halo density is also discussed.
Segregation of Calcium to Magnesium Oxide Grain Boundaries

Grain boundary (GB) segregation has been measured in Ca-doped MgO by examining intergranular fracture surfaces with Auger electron spectroscopy. The measurements reveal several interesting features. The composition of any given GB on the fracture surface is almost uniform, except for small variations due to deviations from planarity. There is a strong anisotropy of GB composition, which can amount to as much as a factor of six between low and high segregation GB's. Finally, although the compositions of opposite sides of a GB fracture are uniform, there are sometimes significant differences between the two sides, in agreement with a recently formulated model of GB composition as a function of GB character.
Improving Induction Therapy in Multiple Myeloma

Significant improvements in induction therapy for multiple myeloma have been seen over the past decade for both transplant-eligible patients and transplant-ineligible patients. The emergence of novel agents in managing myeloma has revealed new directions for clinicians to approach the disease. The first determinant is transplant eligibility. With the recognition of the prognostic impact of postinduction response on overall outcomes, the importance of the choice of optimal regimen has become more important than ever. The preference of induction therapy for transplant-eligible patients has progressively changed from the alkylator-based therapies to doublet therapies to triplet therapies incorporating immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors. The role of quadruplet therapies remains unclear, but with appropriate dosage modifications, these regimens were efficacious and had an acceptable toxicity profile. Similar treatment approaches for transplant-ineligible patients resulted in superior outcomes with the triplet therapies. Many challenges remain however, such as achieving greater depth of responses with molecular remissions and more effective use of risk stratification in induction therapy. These are still to be explored.
The Kinematics method in geometry

We present and discuss the use of arguments of velocity to demonstrate invariance of relationships among segments of geometrical figures.
A comparison of fertilization envelope development in three species of Strongylocentrotus (S. Franciscanus, S. Droebachiensis, and S. purpuratus)

The ultrastructure of fertilization envelope (FE) development and the polypeptide spectra of Strongylocentrotus franciscanus and S. droebachiensis envelopes were compared to S. purpuratus. In S. franciscanus, the FE reached its maximum thickness of 67 nm by 3 minutes postinsemination (Pl), and final structuralization was observed by 40 minutes Pl. The fully formed FE did not have microvillar impressions (casts) and was symmetrical, with outer double laminar elements surrounding an amorphous central region. Isolated S. franciscanus FEs were soluble in reducing and denaturing solvents and the same set of 33 polypeptides ranging from 18.5 to 260 kD was detected in FEs isolated from 10 to 180 minutes Pl. The S. droebachiensis FE retained microvillar casts, assumed its definitive from by 3 minutes Pl, and was 70 nm thick between microvillar impressions. Isolated S. droebachiensis FEs were partially soluble in reducing and denaturing solvents, and the polypeptide spectra of FEs isolated between 10 and 60 minutes Pl were identical and showed 14 polypeptides from 18.5 to 265 kD. Antisera against exttracted FEs and the FE extract from S. purpuratus were immunologically cross-reactive (using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) with S. franciscanus and S. droebachiensis FE preparations; immunoblots identified 13 and 5 cross-reactive polypeptides, respectively. Most of the cross-reactive polypeptides were of slightly different molecular weight. Based on comparative ultrastructural, solubility, and electrophoretic data, we suggest that S. droebachiensis FE development is most like that observed in S. purpuratus.
In vitro digestibility and calculated PER as rapid methods for the nutritional evaluation of potato protein

Protein Efficiency Ratios (PER) have been determined for hybrid potato selections by feeding flake diets to rats; more rapid and inexpensive tests are required by breeding programs which select for improved potato protein. Two more recent methods, in vitro digestibility (IVD) and calculated PER utilizing discriminant computed PER (DC-PER) and computed PER (C-PER), were studied for their potential in evaluation of the nutritional quality of potato. Albumin (A) and two subfractions, acid soluble and insoluble (ASA and AIA), were studied, as well as flakes. The average IVD for albumin was 68.9%, for ASA was 67.5% and for AIA was 77.5%. Digested proteins were identified by electrophoresis before and after enzyme treatment. The higher IVD values for AIA were probably due to the presence of protease inhibitors among the ASA proteins. IVD differences among groups of hybrids were found and a reasonable correlation (r=0.71*) of these values with flake PER values was observed. The DC-PER values ranged from 2.64 to 2.79, these values were larger than those observed in feeding trials; additional genotypes need to be studied before this method can be proposed for potato evaluation. The presence of protease inhibitors in the albumin samples is indicated, because the average IVD value of 68 increased to about 84 after the albumins were heated prior to IVD determinations.
Response simulation of CMOS pixel sensors for the ILC vertex tracker

This paper reports preliminary results of a simulation of CMOS Monolithic active pixel sensors for Vertex Tracker application at the International Linear Collider.
Targeted binding of PEG-lipid modified polymer ultrasound contrast agents with tiered surface architecture.

In order for site-directed polymer ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) to provide acoustic enhancement at disease sites to distinguish normal tissue from diseased tissue, the surface of these agents must be functionalized with mixtures of grafted polymers. Here a combination of longer liganded polyethylene glycol (PEG)-lipids and shorter unliganded PEG-lipids were introduced into the oil phase of a modified solvent evaporation double emulsion method for preparing UCAs. UCAs with different lengths of both liganded and unliganded lipids were imaged under 7.5MHz ultrasound. The B-mode image brightness of the mixed PEG-lipid UCAs was within 1dB the brightness of the unliganded surface. After 15min of continuous insonation, 70% of the contrast signal remained. The peptide arginine- glycine-aspartic acid(RGD) wasadded to the surface ofthese UCAs through a biotin-avidin linkage and binding was assessed under static and shear conditions. Binding was significant after 30min of static incubation and the adher- ence of the UCA increased under shearflow from 3 UCA/cell (static) to 5 UCA/cell (shear). Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010;106: 501-506.
Using DEA Factor Efficiency Scores to Eliminate Subjectivity in Goal Programming

Many real-world problems require decision makers to consider multiple criteria when performing an analysis. One popular method used to analyze multicriteria decision problems is goal programming. When applying goal programming, it is often difficult if not impossible to determine the target values and unit penalty weights with any level of confidence. Thus, in many situations, managers and decision makers may be forced to specify these parameters subjectively. In this paper, we present a model framework designed to eliminate the arbitrary assignment of target values and unit penalty weights when applying goal programming to solve multicriteria decision problems. In particular, when neither of these parameters is available, we show how to integrate factor efficiency scores determined from data envelopment analysis into the model. We discuss an application of the methodology to ambulatory surgery centers and demonstrate the model framework via a product mix example.
Genetic and environmental factors in the aetiology of menstrual, premenstrual and neurotic symptoms: a population-based twin study.

Symptoms during the premenstrual and menstrual phases of the female reproductive cycle were assessed in 827 pairs of female same-sex twins from a population-based registry. By conventional factor analysis, premenstrual and menstrual symptoms were relatively independent of one another and of baseline ‘neurotic’ symptoms (i.e. anxiety, depression and somatization). Familial resemblance for menstrual and premenstrual symptoms was due solely to genetic factors with heritability estimates of 39·2% and 35·1%, respectively. Multivariate genetic analysis revealed distinct genetic and environmental factors for menstrual, premenstrual and neurotic symptoms. The genes and individual-specific experiences that predispose to premenstrual symptoms appear to be largely distinct from those which predispose either to menstrual or to neurotic symptoms. The generalizability of these results may be limited because only a modest number of premenstrual and menstrual symptoms were assessed, all by retrospective self-report.