cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stage a prostate cancer from pathologist's viewpoint

Four hundred sixty-five departments of pathology in the United States were asked the following questions pertaining to Stage A prostatic cancer: (1) If a focus of adenocarcinoma is incidentally found in an enucleated specimen, what is the maximum diameter such a lesion may attain and still be considered an A-1 prostatic carcinoma? (2) If adenocarcinoma is incidentally found in a specimen resected transurethrally, how many chips may contain tumor and the lesion still be considered A-1 prostatic carcinoma? (3) What is your "routine pathologic examination" of a prostatic specimen? The majority of pathologists believe that the maximum diameter of a focal (A-1) lesion in an enucleated specimen is 5 mm., and the maximum number of transurethral chips containing tumor in a focal (A-1) lesion is three. The majority of pathologists section every chip when the specimen weighs less than 10 Gm. However, only 12 per cent of the pathologists section every chip when the specimen is greater than 10 Gm., while the others use a random section technique. There is a great diversity of techniques among pathologists in their methods of examining enucleated prostatic specimens.
Dual methods for probabilistic optimization problems

We consider nonlinear stochastic optimization problems with probabilistic constraints. The concept of a p-efficient point of a probability distribution is used to derive equivalent problem formulations, and necessary and sufficient optimality conditions. We analyze the dual functional and its subdifferential. Two numerical methods are developed based on approximations of the p-efficient frontier. The algorithms yield an optimal solution for problems involving r-concave probability distributions. For arbitrary distributions, the algorithms provide upper and lower bounds for the optimal value and nearly optimal solutions. The operation of the methods is illustrated on a cash matching problem with a probabilistic liquidity constraint.
Research Progress on Friction Stir Welding of Pipeline Steels

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) has been widely commercialized to join aluminum alloys, but is yet to be broadly applied to structural steels. The primary difficulty in welding steels relates to severe loads and temperatures experienced at the interface between the FSW tool and the base material. These conditions are challenging even for the most advanced and expensive tool materials. However, within the last five years, tool advancements have begun to enable FSW of steels. Polycrystalline boron nitride (PCBN), tungsten-rhenium alloys, and mixtures thereof appear to be capable of producing sound welds in steel. This paper describes the results of a continuing study on the FSW of pipeline steels. Pipe grades from API X65 to X120 were subjected to FSW. Strength and toughness measurements using the crack tip opening displacement test were performed. The weld microstructure was evaluated using optical, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy. A computational fluid dynamics model was developed to better understand the effect of process parameters on thermal cycles, strain rates and strain experienced by material in the weld stir zone. The results indicate that the microstructure and properties of the welds have little dependence on the tool material, while significant variations in properties were observed between steels produced by different manufacturers. In general, obtaining high levels of toughness on par with gas metal arc mechanized girth welds appears difficult when using the FSW process. The results emphasize the need for a better understanding on the role of process parameters on microstructural evolution and weld quality during FSW of pipeline steels. As a full-scale demonstration of FSW on pipeline steels, several circumferential girth welds were produced in 762 mm (30 inch) diameter X80 pipe. The results of these efforts are discussed.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Evaluation of precipitates used in strainer head loss testing. Part I. Chemically generated precipitates

Abstract The purpose of the current program was to evaluate the properties of chemical precipitates proposed by industry that have been used in sump strainer head loss testing. Specific precipitates that were evaluated included aluminum oxyhydroxide (AlOOH) and sodium aluminum silicate (SAS) prepared according to the procedures in WCAP-16530-NP, along with precipitates formed from injecting chemicals into the test loop according to the procedure used by one sump strainer test vendor for U.S. pressurized water reactors. The settling rates of the surrogate precipitates are strongly dependent on their particle size and are reasonably consistent with those expected from Stokes’ Law or colloid aggregation models. Head loss tests showed that AlOOH and SAS surrogates are quite effective in increasing the head loss across a perforated pump inlet strainer that has an accumulated fibrous debris bed. The characteristics of aluminum hydroxide precipitate using sodium aluminate were dependent on whether it was formed in high-purity or ordinary tap water and whether excess silicate was present or not.
Generalized Morse theory and its applications to control and stability analysis

This paper extends Morse theory to noncompact manifolds which is important since in many engineering applications the manifolds involved are usually noncompact. To demonstrate the application, generalized Morse theory is used to estimate the number of unstable equilibria on the stability boundary. The engineering significance of the estimation is explained in the paper.
Liquid chromatography–electrospray mass spectrometry (LC–MS) method for determination of esmolol concentration in human plasma

Esmolol is a very short-acting beta-blocker commonly used in critically ill patients. To study the pharmacokinetics of esmolol in pediatric patients, a liquid chromatography-electrospray mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method to quantitate esmolol concentration in plasma was developed. Following methylene chloride extraction from 200 microl aliquots of plasma containing internal standard and reconstitution in 0.05% formic acid, 10 microl are injected onto column, eluted using a methanol/formic acid gradient over 15 min, and monitored with selected ion recording at 296.2 and 282.2. The assay is linear between 2 and 1000 ng/ml. The intra-day and inter-day coefficients of variation are less than 8 and 10%, respectively.
On the smoothness of the equizonal ovaloids

We show that the n-dimensional equizonal ovaloids are analytic when n is even and are of exactly Cn-1 smoothness when n is odd. This substantially improves the previously published result on the smoothness of the even-dimensional equizonal ovaloids and slightly corrects the previously published statement regarding the smoothness of the odd-dimensional equizonal ovaloids. Our methods should be generally useful in determining the degree of smoothness of surfaces and hypersurfaces of revolution generated by piecewise-defined profile curves. In particular, they include a novel and elegant application of Bernstein’s theory of absolutely monotonic functions.
Kinetic isotope effects of L-Dopa decarboxylase.

A mixed centroid path integral and free energy perturbation method (PI-FEP/UM) has been used to investigate the primary carbon and secondary hydrogen kinetic isotope effects (KIEs) in the amino acid decarboxylation of L-Dopa catalyzed by the enzyme L-Dopa decarboxylase (DDC) along with the corresponding uncatalyzed reaction in water. DDC is a pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) dependent enzyme. The cofactor undergoes an internal proton transfer between the zwitterionic protonated Schiff base configuration and the neutral hydroxyimine tautomer. It was found that the cofactor PLP makes significant contributions to lowering the decarboxylation barrier, while the enzyme active site provides further stabilization of the transition state. Interestingly, the O-protonated configuration is preferred both in the Michaelis complex and at the decarboxylation transition state. The computed kinetic isotope effects (KIE) on the carboxylate C-13 are consistent with that observed on decarboxylation reactions of other PLP-depend...
The Fundamental Theorem of World Theory

The fundamental principle of the theory of possible worlds is that a proposition p is possible if and only if there is a possible world at which p is true. In this paper we present a valid derivation of this principle from a more general theory in which possible worlds are defined rather than taken as primitive. The general theory uses a primitive modality and axiomatizes abstract objects, properties, and propositions. We then show that this general theory has very small models and hence that its ontological commitments—and, therefore, those of the fundamental principle of world theory—are minimal.
VORTICES IN BIOLOGICAL FLOWS

Vortices in flow past a heart valve, in streams and behind an arrow were realized, sketched and discussed by Leonardo da Vinci. The forced resonance and collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge under 64 km/h. wind in 1940 and the Karman vortex street are classic examples of dynamic interaction between fluid flow and solid motion. There are similar and dissimilar characteristics of vortices between biological and physical flow processes. They can be analyzed by numerical solutions of the Navier–Stokes equations with moving boundaries. One approach is to transform the time-dependent domain to a fixed domain with the geometric, kinematic and dynamic parameters as forcing functions in the Navier–Stokes equations.
A two-grid method for coupled free flow with porous media flow

Abstract This paper presents a two-grid method for solving systems of partial differential equations modelling incompressible free flow coupled with porous media flow. This work considers both the coupled Stokes and Darcy as well as the coupled Navier–Stokes and Darcy problems. The numerical schemes proposed are based on combinations of the continuous finite element method and the discontinuous Galerkin method. Numerical errors and convergence rates for solutions obtained from the two-grid method are presented. CPU times for the two-grid algorithm are shown to be significantly less than those obtained by solving the fully coupled problem.
Infusion of Bispecific Monoclonal Antibody Complexes into Monkeys Provides Immunologic Protection against Later Challenge with a Model Pathogen

Heteropolymers (HP), bispecific mAbs which bind target pathogens to primate erythrocytes via complement receptor 1, facilitate clearance of pathogens from the bloodstream by targeting them for destruction in the liver without causing lysis or clearance of the erythrocytes. We show that when HP prepared with mouse IgG are intravenously infused into monkeys one or more times prior to exposure to a prototype pathogen, they bind to erythrocytes and remain in the circulation long enough to act as "sentinels," preventing pathogen invasion of the bloodstream. The effectiveness of HP as sentinels is limited both by the monkey's immune response to the HP and, prior to the immune response, by a gradual loss of the HP from monkey erythrocytes over a period of 1 week, and we have investigated possible causes of this HP loss. In overview, our results suggest that HP prepared with mouse IgG are able to effectively function as sentinels for a minimum of 4 days and, after repeat infusion, possibly for up to 2 weeks.
Web‐enhanced alternative teacher licensure

Abstract College and university teacher education programs are increasingly required to integrate technology into teacher preparation in response to the requirements of national accreditation groups like the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Delivery of teacher education programs through pure distance education methodologies still has critics. A Web‐enhanced approach, with on‐campus courses and Web‐based information and/or testing as a supplement, is suggested as a compromise. An alternative teacher licensure program in career and technical education at Ohio State University uses this approach extensively, with positive results. This case study explores the use of an alternative teacher licensure program, defines the components of a Web‐based curriculum, and illustrates the benefits and challenges of a Web‐enhanced teacher education program. Student and faculty issues and reactions are outlined, along with stra...
A critical comparison of solid sample preparation techniques in infrared spectroscopy

The growing capabilities of FTIR spectrometers and computers have opened the use of new sample preparation techniques in infrared spectroscopy. In addition to the established KBr pellet technique and ATR spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance and photoacoustic spectroscopy are increasing in importance. A systematic experimental comparison of these techniques has been made in order to make proper use of their mutual advantages.
The Fading Attraction of Central Regions: an Empirical Note on Core–Periphery Gradients in Western Europe

Abstract This paper describes sectoral core–periphery gradients across Western European regions over the period 1975–2000, and it estimates the impact of EU membership on countries’ internal geography. Overall, it is found that the centrality of European regions has been losing importance as a determinant for the location of employment. Central regions have gained employment share in none of the eight broad sectors analysed, whereas peripheral regions have significantly gained employment share in four of these sectors. Accession to the EU has favoured countries’ peripheral regions in terms of manufacturing employment and their central regions in terms of service employment.
Discriminant analysis of MRI measures as a method to determine the presence of dementia of the Alzheimer type

Abstract Multivariate discriminant analysis of brain volumes obtained from semiautomated magnetic resonance image (MRI) quantification was used in an attempt to identify demented patients very early in the course of the disease. Temporal and posterior frontal brain volumes were quantified from MRIs in a cross-sectional study of 31 male and female patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) and 29 age- and sex-matched healthy comparison subjects. Mean scores on the Folstein Mini-Mental State Examination (MMS) were in the mild range for the DAT group (20 ± 6.6), but patients with moderate and severe dementia were also included (MMS range of entire DAT group = 4–28). Significant mean differences in frontal and temporal lobe brain volumes were found between the DAT group and the age- and sex-matched healthy comparison group, but the sensitivity of any single measure was limited to 87% with a specificity of 83%. Initial multivariate discriminant analysis revealed significant gender differences among the healthy subjects, but not the DAT patients. The large group size allowed for subsequent discriminant analyses to be performed by gender. All healthy subjects and DAT patients were correctly classified by gender-specific discriminant functions. The male discriminant function variables included brain volume, age, and temporal lobe measures. Inclusion of age in the male discriminant function accounted for age-related brain atrophy, a finding that may have emerged as a consequence of the broad age range of the male DAT population (50–81 years). The male discriminant function was also successfully applied to an independent group of mildly demented subjects that included patients for whom the diagnosis of dementia was uncertain but verified by follow-up clinical evaluations. Measures of temporal lobe brain matter and temporal lobe cerebrospinal fluid volumes were the significant discriminator variables for the women. Quantitative MRI and multivariate discriminant analysis showed promise in distinguishing the dementing process from healthy aging in a group of 60 subjects. Moreover, while not diagnostic of DAT, the approach appeared to offer additional information about the probability of a diagnosis being later confirmed in patients with very mild dementia for whom the clinical identification of DAT is uncertain.
Superoxide-dependent formation of hydroxyl radicals from ferric-complexes and hydrogen peroxide: an evaluation of fourteen iron chelators.

When a variety of ferric chelates are reacted with hydrogen peroxide in phosphate buffer deoxyribose is damaged and this damage is protected against by formate, thiourea and mannitol. Damage done by ferric complexes of citrate, EDTA, NTA, EGTA and HEDA is substantially inhibited by superoxide dismutase (SOD) whereas complexes of PLA. ADP and CDTA are moderately inhibited by SOD. The effects of SOD argue against hydrogen peroxide acting as a reductant in Fenton chemistry driven by ferric complexes and hydrogen peroxide. EDTA has proved to be a useful model for Fenton chemistry that is inhibited by SOD although, it is not unique in this respect.
Somatostatin Stimulates BKCa Channels in Rat Pituitary Tumor Cells through Lipoxygenase Metabolites of Arachidonic Acid

The stimulation of large-conductance, calcium-activated (BK) potassium channels by somatostatin through protein dephosphorylation in rat pituitary tumor cells (White et al., Nature, 351, 570-573, 1991) is blocked by drugs that interfere with arachidonic acid release by phospholipase A 2 and metabolism by 5-lipoxygenase. In contrast, higher concentrations of the same drugs had no effect on BK channel gating in cell-free patches, on the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase by somatostatin, or on the stimulation of BK channels by protein dephosphorylation through a cGMP-dependent pathway (White et al., Nature 361, 263-266, 1993). Exogenous arachidonic acid (1-20 μM) stimulated BK channel activity through protein dephosphorylation as effectively as somatostatin and was also blocked by inhibitors of lipoxygenases but not by inhibitors of phospholipase A 2 . These results support the hypothesis that lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid are second messengers linking pertussis toxin sensitive G-proteins to protein phosphatases regulating potassium channel activity (Armstrong and White, Trends Neurosci. 15, 403-408, 1992). Published by Elsevier Science Ltd
Zinc, an essential metal ion for beef liver δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase

Isolated beef liver δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase was found to contain variable levels of different metal ions. The addition of zinc ion restored activity to an apoenzyme prepared with the aid of chelating agents. It seems likely that zinc is the specific metal ion required by this enzyme.
The corrosion of uraninite under oxidizing conditions

Abstract Uraninite is the most common uranium mineral, which, because of chemical and structural similarities to synthetic UO 2 , is a useful natural analogue for UO 2 in spent fuel. Uraninite, however, contains “impurities” such as Pb, Ca, Si, U 6+ , Th, Zr, and lanthanides. These affect the thermodynamic properties of uraninite, the rate of uraninite alteration, and the composition of the corrosion products. Uraninite can contain a significant amount of radiogenic Pb, and the Pb-uranyl oxide hydrates (Pb-UOH) are the most common corrosion products formed by the oxidative alteration of Pb-bearing uraninites. Incongruent alteration of the Pb-UOHs in natural waters produces increasingly Pb-enriched uranyl phases, effectively reducing the amount of U lost from the corrosion rind. This is not true of other uranyl oxide hydrates, such as schoepite, UO 3 · H 2 O, or becquerelite, CaU 6 O 19 · 11H 2 O, which can dissolve completely under similar geochemical conditions. The most common end product of Pb-UOH alteration is curite. Curite may provide surface nucleation sites for certain uranyl phosphates, thereby enhancing their formation. Uranyl phosphates are generally less soluble than other uranyl phases. In the absence of Pb, schoepite and becquerelite are the common initial corrosion products. The reaction path for the alteration of Pb-free uraninite results in the formation of uranyl silicates, which are generally more soluble than the uranyl phosphates. Thus, the long-term oxidation behavior for ancient, Pb-bearing uraninite is different from young, Pb-free uraninite. Because the presence of Pb effectively reduces the mobility of uranium in oxidizing waters, the concentration of uranium in ground waters associated with oxidized uranium ore deposits will depend in part on the age of the primary uraninite.
SU‐E‐I‐38: Meeting the ACR QC Requirements for Mechanically Scanned Transducers

Purpose: To investigate methods and phantoms, both commercially available and fabricated, that will comply with the Geometric Accuracy Quality Control test for mechanically scanned transducers. Methods: A Gammex UTED was modified to enable caliper dimension measurements by insertion of polyester thread “pins” using needles and a locating jig that allowed placement of the thread at 14mm intervals. The modified phantom was evaluated on a Philips iU22 US system with a VL13-5 broadband linear array transducer with single sweep 3D volume acquisition. 2D (axial and lateral) caliper measurements were made on inserted pins. The transducer was rotated 90 degrees and a 3D sweep was acquired, with measurements taken on the reconstructed slices in the scanning direction. A CIRS model 054GS US phantom was then imaged using the same techniques and methods, with measurements being taken on the lateral resolution pins (3mm and 7mm spacing) at 3cm depth and the results were compared. Results: 3D measurements in the lateral direction for the CIRS phantom showed an average difference (over multiple scanning techniques) of 9.7% at 4mm spacing and 7.9% at 7mm spacing. The modified UTED produced an average difference of 6.7% at 14mm spacing. Corresponding 2D caliper measurements resulted in a 3.0% difference for the CIRS and −3.7% for the UTED. Lateral resolution decreased from 2D to 3D scanning by 207% for the CIRS (0.53mm to 1.625mm) and 82% for the UTED (1.080mm to 1.970mm). Conclusion: The modified UTED phantom compares favorably with the CIRS phantom. Issues with lateral resolution blurring in the 3D sweeps can cause inconsistencies in caliper measurements, therefore yearly consistency should be the standard, not an absolute measurement. It is possible for a facility to modify a less expensive phantom that will allow them to meet the QC requirements for Geometric Accuracy set forth by the ACR.
One- and two-sided burning of thermally thin materials

The rate of heat release from a thermally thin material burning on both sides will be more than twice the value seen when only one side is burning. Two simplified models demonstrate that this is a consequence of the Arrhenius temperature dependence of the gasification rate of the solid. Experiments carried out on three composite materials over a range of incident heat fluxes confirm this effect. It is inferred that a further consequence of this heat release enhancement is an increased tendency for concurrent flame spread in the two-sided burning case. Materials whose application could lead to two-sided burning should thus be assessed in this mode to obtain a true picture of their flammability potential.
Adsorption of TCNQ derivatives onto the surface of cadmium selenide single crystals: quenching of semiconductor photoluminescence by a family of strong .pi.-acids

Adsorption from a CH 2 Cl 2 solution of a family of ring-substituted, 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) derivatives onto the surface of etched, single-crystal n-CdSe quenches the band gap photoluminescence (PL) intensity of the semiconductor relative to its value in pure CH 2 Cl 2 solvent
Excretion of glucocorticoids in the newborn.

The adrenal gland of the newborn infant differs greatly from that of the adult person. At birth the adrenals are relatively large structures and the cortex is composed of an outer or true cortical part and an inner part, the fetal cortex. This fetal cortex grows rapidly during the last trimester of fetal life and at birth or just previous to birth begins to degenerate. According to Benner (1940) this process is slow for the first 3 days of life but after that time proceeds rapidly for 2 to 3 weeks. This phenomenon was first observed by Scheel in 1908 and although numerous investigations have been carried out since that time, the function of the fetal cortex and the significance of its rapid involution are still not understood. Grollman (1936) and Broster (1937) have suggested that this zone might be androgenic tissue,
Correlation of Sensory, Cooking, Physical, and Chemical Properties of Whole Grain Rice with Diverse Bran Color

ABSTRACT Whole grain rice is nutrient dense because of the intact bran layer. The literature indicates that there is genetic variability for compounds in the bran layer of whole grain rice with some compounds in high concentrations in varieties with pigmented bran. The purpose of this study was to compare factors that impact sensory characteristics between different classes of rice bran color. Ten varieties, two from each of five bran colors (white, light brown, brown, red, and purple), were evaluated for descriptive flavor and texture, physical characteristics, gelatinization temperature, apparent amylose content, and polyphenols. Rice that has red or purple pigmented bran has higher contents of phenols and flavonoids, and these varieties were strongly correlated with some flavor attributes. The bran/hay/straw attribute correlated with bran weight and bran thickness, and sweet taste negatively correlated with amylose content. The texture attribute of hardness was significantly different among bran colors...
Plasma-gun-assisted field-reversed configuration formation in a conical θ-pinch

Injection of plasma via an annular array of coaxial plasma guns during the pre-ionization phase of field-reversed configuration (FRC) formation is shown to catalyze the bulk ionization of a neutral gas prefill in the presence of a strong axial magnetic field and change the character of outward flux flow during field-reversal from a convective process to a much slower resistive diffusion process. This approach has been found to significantly improve FRC formation in a conical θ-pinch, resulting in a ∼350% increase in trapped flux at typical operating conditions, an expansion of accessible formation parameter space to lower densities and higher temperatures, and a reduction or elimination of several deleterious effects associated with the pre-ionization phase.
Non-equilibrium fluid dynamics-laminar flow over a flat plate

Es werden die grundlegenden Wechselwirkungen in stromenden Mischungen und Suspensionen untersucht, deren einzelne Komponenten nicht miteinander im thermischen Gleichgewicht sind und auch verschiedene Geschwindigkeiten besitzen. Die Untersuchung erfolgt am Beispiel der Laminarstromung uber eine ebene Platte. Energie- und Impuls-Relaxation und die Diffusivitat der einzelnen Komponenten werden berucksichtigt. Dabei werden gewisse Ahnlichkeitsgesetze gewonnen. Die Theorie eignet sich als Ausgangspunkt fur eine tiefer in die Einzelheiten eindringende Analyse. Ihre Ergebnisse sind anwendbar auf Falle wie Wasserstoff-Uranmischungen, Aerosol-Suspensionen und schwach ionisierte Gase.
An Estuarine Benthic Index of Biotic Integrity for the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. II. Index Development

A benthic index of biotic integrity was developed for use in estuaries of the mid-Atlantic region of the United States (Delaware Bay estuary through Albemarle-Pamlico Sound). The index was developed for the Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment Program (MAIA) of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency using procedures similar to those applied previously in Chesapeake Bay and southeastern estuaries, and was based on sampling in July through early October. Data from seven federal and state sampling programs were used to categorize sites as degraded or non-degraded based on dissolved oxygen, sediment contaminant, and sediment toxicity criteria. Various metrics of benthic community structure and function that distinguished between degraded and reference (non-degraded) sites were selected for each of five major habitat types defined by classification analysis of assemblages. Each metric was scored according to thresh- olds established on the distribution of values at reference sites, so that sites with low scoring metrics would be expected to show signs of degradation. For each habitat, metrics that correctly classified at least 50% of the degraded sites in the calibration data set were selected whenever possible to derive the index. The final index integrated the average score of the combination of metrics that performed best according to several criteria. Selected metrics included measures of productivity (abundance), diversity (number of taxa, Shannon-Wiener diversity, percent dominance), species composition and life history (percent abundance of pollution-indicative taxa, percent abundance of pollution-sensitive taxa, percent abundance of Bivalvia, Tanypodinae-Chironomidae abundance ratio), and trophic composition (percent abundance of deep-deposit feeders). The index correctly classified 82% of all sites in an independent data set. Classification efficiencies of sites were higher in the mesohaline and polyhaline habitats (81-92%) than in the oligohaline (71%) and the tidal freshwater (61%). Although application of the index to low salinity habitats should be done with caution, the MAIA index appeared to be quite reliable with a high likelihood of correctly identifying both degraded and non-degraded conditions. The index is expected to be of great utility in regional assessments as a tool for evaluating the integrity of benthic assemblages and tracking their condition over time.
Viridans streptococcal (Streptococcus mitis) biosynthetic aortic prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) complicated by complete heart block and paravalvular abscess

Abstract Prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) may be classified clinically as early ( 60 days) post-valve replacement PVE. The pathogens of early versus late PVE differ in type and virulence. Early PVE pathogens are virulent, for example, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus . Late PVE pathogens resemble those of subacute bacterial endocarditis and are due to relatively avirulent and noninvasive organisms, for example, viridans streptococci. Viridans streptococci vary in their invasiveness and abscess potential. Myocardial abscess and complete heart block are rare complications of late PVE due to viridans streptococci. We present an unusual case of Streptococcus mitis late aortic PVE complicated by aortic root abscess, myocardial abscess, and complete heart block.
Asymptomatic profound oxyhemoglobin desaturation following interscalene block in a geriatric patient

Background and Objectives Interscalene block can be chosen for complete anesthesia for shoulder surgery. Phrenic nerve block occurs with almost all interscalene blocks, but is well tolerated in most patients. This may not be the case in selected geriatric patients. Methods The patient is a 90-year-old female with osteoarthritis of the left shoulder scheduled for total shoulder anthroplasty. Past medical history revealed hypertension, mild mitral valve insufficiency, and a remote episode of congestive heart failure. She underwent interscalene block with 40 mL of 1.4% mepivacaine, 1:200,000 epinephrine freshly added, alkalinized with sodium bicarbonate. Results The onset of the block was rapid and complete. The patient had minimal intravenous sedation (0.5 mg midazolam) and was resting comfortably with a respiratory rate of 12-14 breaths/min. Approximately 5 minutes after the injection of local anesthetic, the patient was noted to be alert, cyanotic, denying dyspnea, with an oxygen saturation of 75-85%. A chest radiograph revealed elevation of the ipsilateral hemidiaphragm and no pneumothorax or other pathology. Despite supplemental oxygen by face mask, desaturation persisted and general anesthesia was induced. On emergence from anesthesia, the patient had a complete interscalene block. Repeat chest radiograph after resolution of the block revealed return of hemidiaphragm position and no other pathology. The patient was extubated in the recovery room without difficulty. Following extubation the patient demonstrated stable respirations and normal oxyhemoglobin saturation. Conclusions Ipsilateral phrenic nerve paralysis caused significant respiratory compromise in an elderly patient without known significant pulmonary disease.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF FEAR OF FAILURE TO GROWTH NEED STRENGTH AND THE JOB CHARACTERISTICS MODEL

Summary.-Considerable research has shown that individuals high in growth need strength react positively to job enrichment efforts. However, little is known about the motives and job characteristics that appeal to the low growth need strength worker. Research on the construct "fear of failure" indicates that it should, theoretically at least, diverge with growth need strength. Further, fear of failure theory predicts that such individuals prefer gradual change and advancement, high structure, and low individual responsibility. The relation between growth need strength and fear of failure was tested. Results generally confirmed the predicted relations, along with an interesting sex difference on the relations of fear of failure and growth need strength. The implications of these findings to job enrichment efforts is discussed. The job characteristics approach to job redesign outlined by Hackman and Oldham (1971) has received generally positive support in recent reviews of the Literature (Loher, Noe, Moeller, & Fitzgerald, 1985; Fried & Ferris, 1987). The process of enriching jobs so that they include more variety, identity, significance, autonomy, and feedback has generally been shown to be positively related to measures of job satisfaction and work motivation. The individual difference variable, Growth Need Strength, is posited by the model to moderate these relationships, i.e., workers high in this motive should react with greater work satisfaction and productivity, while those low in the motive should not show these effects. Research has supported this relationship (Loher, et al., 1985). A meta-analysis by Spector (1985) identified support for the concept as a moderator of job satisfaction, motivation, and performance. Although their findings do not show that workers low in growth need strength are adversely affected by job enrichment, research has not clarified what can be done to bring about positive outcomes for low scoring workers. Similarly, Kulik, Oldham, and Hackman (1987) stated that not enough is known about what constitutes a proper person-job "fit" for such individuals, e.g., what job characteristics appeal to the worker? What can be done to motivate such workers to improve both their job satisfaction and productive output? They suggest that low growth need strength individuals may react positively to enrichment attempts so long as the changes are made gradually and in a participative manner. One method of exploring the motives and preferences of individuals low in growth need strength is to examine motivation measures that diverge
Fringe-adjusted JTC based target detection and tracking using subframes from a video sequence

The joint transform correlator (JTC) technique has been found to be suitable for real-time matching and tracking operations. Among the various JTC techniques proposed in the literature, the fringe-adjusted JTC has been found to yield better correlation output for target detection. In this paper, we propose a generalized fringe-adjusted JTC based algorithm for detecting and tracking a target in a video image sequence. The proposed JTC based algorithm has been found to be suitable for near real time recognition and tracking of a static or moving target. The performance of the proposed technique has been verified with real life image sequences.
Concern beliefs in medications: changes over time and medication use factors related to a change in beliefs.

Abstract Background Concern belief in medication is a construct that may characterize patients' attitude toward managing medicines, and this could change with time. Understanding the factors that would impact a change in concern beliefs would be helpful in interventions that could reframe patients' perceptions about their medicines. Objectives To examine if patient concern beliefs in medications change over time, assess the characteristics of individuals whose beliefs change, and determine what factors might impact a change in patient beliefs. Methods Secondary data analysis using 2 longitudinal studies. The first study was an Internet-based survey of Medicare enrollees pre-post Medicare Part D. The second study was a randomized controlled trial evaluating a medication management intervention among adults with physical limitations. Respondents were classified as those whose beliefs remained stable and those whose beliefs increased and decreased over 2 separate periods. Chi-square analysis examined significant differences across the groups. Multiple linear regressions examined factors that influence changes in patient beliefs. Results Among older adults, there were differences in perceived health status ( χ 2 =26.05, P =.001), number of pharmacies used ( χ 2 =17.41, P =.008), and number of medicines used after the start of Medicare Part D. There were no significant differences among adults with physical limitations. Among older adults, having an increased number of medicines over time and reporting a self-reported adverse effect to a physician were positively associated with an increase in concern beliefs in medication. Having an increase in adherence was associated with a decrease in concern beliefs over time. Conclusion Concern beliefs in medications may contribute independent information about individuals' response to drug programs and policies. Outcomes of medication use may influence patient anxieties about medicines. The instability of patient concerns in medications that occurs with prescription drug coverage changes, and the emergence of adverse outcomes of medication use may provide insight into the development of individualized interventions.
The use of mechanical ventilation in the ED.

Abstract Objectives Although EDs are responsible for the initial care of critically ill patients and the amount of critical care provided in the ED is increasing, there are few data examining mechanical ventilation (MV) in the ED. In addition, characteristics of ED-based ventilation may affect planning for ventilator shortages during pandemic influenza or bioterrorist events. The study examined the epidemiology of MV in US EDs, including demographic, clinical, and hospital characteristics; indications for MV; ED length of stay (LOS); and in-hospital mortality. Methods This study was a retrospective review of the 1993 to 2007 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey ED data sets. Ventilated patients were compared with ED patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and to all other ED visits. Results There were 3.6 million ED MV visits (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2-4.0 million) over the study period. Sex, age, race, and payment source were similar for mechanically ventilated and ICU patients ( P > .05 for all). Approximately 12.5% of ventilated patients underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation compared with 1.7% of ICU admissions and 0.2% of all other ED visits ( P Conclusions Patients undergoing ED MV have particularly high in-hospital mortality rates, but their ED LOS is sufficient for implementation of evidence-based ventilator interventions.
Modular Inorganic Nanocomposites by Conversion of Nanocrystal Superlattices

Inorganic nanocomposites have been prepared by assembling colloidal nanocrystals and then replacing the organic ligands with precursors to an inorganic matrix phase. Separate synthesis and processing of the nanocrystal and matrix phases allows complete compositional modularity and retention of the superlattice morphologies for sphere (see scheme; top) or rod (bottom) assemblies.
Effect of head diameter on passive and active dynamic hip dislocation

Hip dislocation is a major short-term complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). One factor thought to reduce the risk for dislocation is head size. We constructed subject-specific computer models to study the effect of head size on risk for postoperative dislocation. Femoral and acetabular geometry was constructed after segmenting CT scans of nine hips. CAD models of THA components with four head diameters (28, 32, 36, and 44 mm) were virtually implanted. Hip capsular ligaments were simulated using rigid-body ellipsoids connected by non-linear springs. Posterior dislocation was simulated during a rise from a low chair; anterior dislocation was simulated during a pivot activity. Intraoperative stability tests were simulated for anterior or posterior dislocation. While rising from a low chair (posterior dislocation) and during the pivot activity (anterior dislocation), increasing head size significantly increased hip flexion angle at dislocation and generated higher dislocation moments. Larger heads reduced the risk for dislocation. Intraoperative stability tests detected the relative increased resistance to dislocation despite differences in the absolute magnitude of moments. This model can be useful preclinical tool for assessing design changes, the effect of component placement, and the activity-based risk for dislocation. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:1525–1531, 2014.
Lumbar laminectomy and fusion with routine local application of vancomycin powder: decreased infection rate in instrumented and non-instrumented cases.

Abstract Objective Wound infections are one of the most common and potentially devastating complications of spinal surgery. Intra-wound application of vancomycin powder has been shown to lower the infection risk following posterior instrumented fusion, but little evidence supports use in other spinal operations. The goal of this study is to assess the efficacy of vancomycin powder for lumbar laminectomy and fusion, both instrumented and non-instrumented. Methods All cases of lumbar laminectomy and posterior fusion (with or without pedicle screw fixation) by a single surgeon were reviewed from 2007 to 2011. Routine application of 1g vancomycin powder was started in August 2009. Baseline characteristics and operative data were compared between untreated patients and those who received vancomycin powder. Rates of wound infection were compared for all fusions, and then separately for instrumented and non-instrumented cases. Results 253 patients underwent lumbar laminectomy and fusion between 2007 and 2011. Baseline and operative variables were similar between untreated patients ( n =97) and those who received vancomycin powder ( n =156). Patients were followed for at least one year. The infection rate fell significantly following introduction of vancomycin powder (from 11% to 0%, p =0.000018). Subgroup analysis revealed significant infection reduction for both instrumented cases (from 12% to 0%, p =0.000806) and non-instrumented cases (from 10% to 0%, p =0.0496). No complications attributable to vancomycin powder were identified. Conclusion Local vancomycin powder appears to lower the risk of wound infection following lumbar laminectomy and fusion, both instrumented and non-instrumented. Further studies are needed to optimize dosing of vancomycin powder, assess long-term safety and efficacy, and evaluate use in other spinal operations.
Formation of an RNA Heterodimer upon Heating of Nodavirus Particles

Flock House virus is a small icosahedral insect virus of the family Nodaviridae. Its genome consists of two positive-sense RNA molecules, which are believed to be encapsidated into a single viral particle. However, evidence to support this claim is circumstantial. Here we demonstrate that exposure of nodavirus particles to heat causes the two strands of viral RNA to form a stable complex, directly establishing that both RNAs are copackaged into one virion. The physical properties of the RNA complex, the effect of heat on the particles per se, and the possible relevance of these findings to the nodavirus life cycle are presented.
Planning conditional shortest paths through an unknown environment: a framed-quadtree approach

A conditional shortest path is a collision-free path of shortest distance based on known information on an obstacle-scattered environment at a given time. This paper investigates the problem of finding a conditional L/sub 2/ shortest path through an unknown environment in which path planning is implemented "on the fly" as new obstacle information becomes available through external sensors. We propose a novel cell decomposition approach which calculates an L/sub 2/ distance transform through the use of a circular path-planning wave. The proposed method is based on a new data structure, called the framed-quadtree, which combines together the accuracy of grid-based path planning techniques with the efficiency of quadtree-based techniques, hence having the advantages of both. The heart of this method is a linear time algorithm for computing dynamic Voronoi diagrams.
Real-time dissipation of optical pulses in passive dielectrics

We discuss the inevitable dissipation of energy that must accompany the creation of a pulse-medium excitation state in a passive dielectric. We show that there is a minimum amount of energy that an optical pulse must deposit in the medium to create a given pulse-medium state and that energy deposited beyond this minimum value must be dissipated in the medium. We compare this notion of dissipation to a related concept found by determining the fraction of energy stored in a medium that is irrecoverable by future fields. These two notions of dissipation are model-independent and form upper and lower bounds for real-time loss. Any model-dependent notion of loss that falls outside these bounds has serious conceptual difficulties. We show that a traditional notion of real-time loss based on a multiple-Lorentz oscillator model fails to give reasonable results in classes of passive linear media near EIT, while the notions of loss we introduce give sensible results for all passive media.
The growth of single-sex schools: Federal policy meets local needs and interests

Changes to Title IX allowing the growth of single-sex schools have garnered media attention promoting the benefits of separating boys and girls. Alternately, civil rights groups such as the ACLU continue to oppose any type of school segregation. Within this context, a private philanthropy, the Foundation for the Education of Young Women (FEYW) has established public-private partnerships with six Texas school districts to open all-girls' public college prep magnet schools with plans to expand. This multi-year ethno-historical case study explores the meaning making of one community in the FEYW network as it attempts to make sense of federal policy at the local level. The topic is important to the field of education because it is timely: changes to Title IX and the growth in single-sex arrangements pose interesting legal and sociological questions about equity and justice since it links Title IX (an equity-driven policy) with the choice provisions in NCLB (a market-driven policy). The significance of this study lies in the unique use of ethnography as interpretive policy analysis to show how local communities (re)interpret federal policy to better align with their personal values and more adequately address contextual complexities in their attempts to do what they believe is best for students.