cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hole state density and superconductivity in oxygen-deficient La2−xSrxCuO4−y and YBa2Cu3O7−δ

Abstract Oxygen K near-edge spectra measured by fluorescence were obtained for fully oxidized and oxygen-deficient YBa2Cu3O7−δ (1:2:3) and La2−xSrxCuO4−y (2:1:4). Two features occur just above the Fermi level, one near 530 eV (hybridized states) and the other near 528 eV (oxygen 2p holes). For 1:2:3 the oxygen dependence of energy and intensity of the two peaks is determined. The oxygen hole peak intensity has a constant non-zero value for 6.27≤(7−δ)≤6.40 where the superconducting transition temperature Tc is below 5 K, then rises (as does Tc) as the oxygen content increases toward 7. These results are correlated with earlier Cu K edge measurements which determined the Cu1+ content of similar samples. These quantitative bulk results can also be used as a calibration for estimating the local oxygen content of the microstructure (e.g., grain boundaries) using electron energy loss spectroscopy. We also report oxygen K edge measurements of standard and oxygen-reduced 2:1:4 well into the “overdoped” region (0.35≤x≤0.60), and compare these results with those for 1:2:3.
Poly(2-hydroxyalkyl methacrylates) as stabilizers for colloidal noble metal nanoparticles

Abstract Two poly(2-hydroxyalkyl methacrylates) were investigated as stabilizing matrices for dispersions of colloidal palladium, gold, and silver nanoparticles. The metal colloids were generated by various in-situ reductions from their respective precursors. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to investigate the metal nanoparticle sizes and shapes, and UV–Vis spectroscopy was used to characterize the optical properties of these composites. Very stable dispersions were obtained, especially for gold and silver colloids reduced by potassium borohydride (KBH4).
Assessment of dynamic balance via measurement of lower extremities tortuosity.

Tortuosity describes how twisted or how much curvature is present in an observed movement or path. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in segmental tortuosity between Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) reach directions. Fifteen healthy participants completed this study. Participants completed the modified three direction (anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral) SEBT with three-dimensional motion analysis using an 8 camera BTS Smart 7000DX motion analysis system. The tortuosity of stance limb retro-reflective markers was then calculated and compared between reach directions using a 1 × 3 ANOVA with repeated measures, while the relationship between SEBT performance and tortuosity was established using Pearson product moment correlations. Anterior superior iliac spine tortuosity was significantly greater (p < 0.001) and lateral knee tortuosity was lesser (p = 0.018) in the anterior direction compared to the posteromedial and posterolateral directions. In addition, second metatarsal ...
Fatalistic Beliefs About Cancer Prevention Among Older African American Men.

Objectives:Evidence suggests that minority groups are more likely to exhibit fatalistic beliefs about cancer prevention (FBCP), which are defined as confusion, pessimism, and helplessness about one...
NEW DIRECTIONS IN READING ASSESSMENT

As educators embrace a new view of the reading process and adjust their instruction accordingly, major shifts in reading assessment practices have become necessary. In this article, I briefly trace the history of the shift in reading evaluation, outline the new view of reading, and address current assessment trends, including prior knowledge, strategic reading, process measurements, use of authentic texts, and habits and attitudes. The nature of each trend is described, its measurement problems identified, relevant techniques and instruments presented, and its limitations cited. In addition, overall diagnostic paradigms such as informal, dynamic, and portfolio assessments are discussed.
Social organization patterns can lower disease risk without associated disease avoidance or immunity

Increasing levels of social contact are often linked with increased risks of horizontal disease transmission. However, it is not immediately apparent whether particular social organization strategies could act as effective endogenous mechanisms to offset these increased risks. Patterns of a contact network structure could therefore convey dual evolutionary benefits, providing individuals with well-organized social systems and simultaneous reduction in pathogen pressure. This could then lead to runaway processes, increasing the complexity of a social interaction pattern without the parallel evolution of mechanisms that mitigate epidemiological risks, such as physiological immunity or avoidance of carriers. Using dynamic network models capable of independently simulating social choice and pathogen transmission, we demonstrate that emergent social organization could protect populations from the spread of pathogens. We further show that, while these effects are system-independent, they rely on both the social organization of host populations and the etiological properties of the pathogen. We demonstrate that, under certain scenarios, increased complexity of social network structure could have evolved in response to pathogen pressure rather than in spite of it.
TU‐D‐201B‐02: Current and Future Measurements of CT Dose

The theory behind the current method for assessing radiation dose in CT (the CT Dose Index) will be reviewed. This method has many positive features, and a growing number of limitations. In many ways, technology and imaging equipment has extended beyond the scope of our current CTDI methodology. Several groups have been formed to develop a different approach to assessing CT radiation dose, and many issues must be carefully considered. Dr. Cody will describe a new CT dose measurement process as outlined by Task Group 111, and will also provide her perspective on other interesting developments in the area of CT dose assessment. The related issues of estimated CT dose and patient dose will also be addressed, and relevant Monte Carlo modeling results will be reviewed.
Structural topology synthesis with dynamics and nonlinearities using equivalent linear systems

Topology optimization for nonlinear and dynamic problems is expensive because of the necessity to solve the equations of motion at every optimization iteration in order to evaluate the objective function and constraints. In this work, an iterative methodology is developed using the concept of an equivalent linear system for the topology synthesis of structures undergoing nonlinear and dynamic response, using minimal nonlinear response evaluations. The approach uses equivalent loads obtained from nonlinear dynamic analysis to perform optimization iterations, during the course of which the nonlinear and dynamic system is continuously approximated. In this process, the optimization is decoupled from the nonlinear dynamic analysis. Results are presented for various kinds of nonlinear and dynamic problems showing the effectiveness of the developed approach.
2009 Special Issue: Brain pathways for cognitive-emotional decision making in the human animal

As roles for different brain regions become clearer, a picture emerges of how primate prefrontal cortex executive circuitry influences subcortical decision making pathways inherited from other mammals. The human's basic needs or drives can be interpreted as residing in an on-center off-surround network in motivational regions of the hypothalamus and brain stem. Such a network has multiple attractors that, in this case, represent the amount of satisfaction of these needs, and we consider and interpret neurally a continuous-time simulated annealing algorithm for moving between attractors under the influence of noise that represents ''discontent'' combined with ''initiative.'' For decision making on specific tasks, we employ a variety of rules whose neural circuitry appears to involve the amygdala and the orbital, cingulate, and dorsolateral regions of prefrontal cortex. These areas can be interpreted as connected in a three-layer adaptive resonance network. The vigilance of the network, which is influenced by the state of the hypothalamic needs network, determines the level of sophistication of the rule being utilized.
Relation of Perioperative Elevation of Troponin to Long-Term Mortality After Orthopedic Surgery

Myocardial necrosis in the perioperative period of noncardiac surgery is associated with short-term mortality, but long-term outcomes have not been characterized. We investigated the association between perioperative troponin elevation and long-term mortality in a retrospective study of consecutive subjects who underwent hip, knee, and spine surgery. Perioperative myocardial necrosis and International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision –coded myocardial infarction (MI) were recorded. Long-term survival was assessed using the Social Security Death Index database. Logistic regression models were used to identify independent predictors of long-term mortality. A total of 3,050 subjects underwent surgery. Mean age was 60.8 years, and 59% were women. Postoperative troponin was measured in 1,055 subjects (34.6%). Myocardial necrosis occurred in 179 cases (5.9%), and MI was coded in 20 (0.7%). Over 9,015 patient-years of follow-up, 111 deaths (3.6%) occurred. Long-term mortality was 16.8% in subjects with myocardial necrosis and 5.8% with a troponin in the normal range. Perioperative troponin elevation (hazard ratio 2.33, 95% confidence interval 1.33 to 4.10) and coded postoperative MI (adjusted hazard ratio 3.51, 95% confidence interval 1.44 to 8.53) were significantly associated with long-term mortality after multivariable adjustment. After excluding patients with coronary artery disease and renal dysfunction, myocardial necrosis remained associated with long-term mortality. In conclusion, postoperative myocardial necrosis is common after orthopedic surgery. Myocardial necrosis is independently associated with long-term mortality at 3 years and may be used to identify patients at higher risk for events who may benefit from aggressive management of cardiovascular risk factors.
Low-coherence interferometric detection of photo-thermal and photo-acoustic effects in tissue

We have developed a low-coherence optical sensor for detection of laser-induced thermoelastic deformations in biological materials. The presented optical sensor utilizes a birefringent fiber-based dual channel low-coherence Michelson interferometer capable of differential phase measurements. We demonstrate that the low-coherence sensor can be used for spatially-resolved measurements of laser-induced thermoelastic deformations in biological materials with high axial resolution. Experimental studies were carried out using gelatin-based tissue phantoms.
Effects of Encapsulation Microenvironment on Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation

Pluripotent embryonic stem cells represent a promising renewable cell source to generate a variety of differentiated cell types. Although many investigators have described techniques to effectively differentiate stem cells into different mature cell lineages, their practicality is limited by the absence of large scale processing consideration and low yields of differentiated cells. Previously we have established a murine embryonic stem cell alginate-poly-l-lysine microencapsulation differentiation system. The three-dimensional alginate microenvironment maintains cell viability, is conducive to ES cell differentiation to hepatocyte lineage cells, and maintains differentiated cellular function. In the present work, we demonstrate that hepatocyte differentiation is mediated by cell-cell aggregation in the encapsulation microenvironment. Both cell aggregation and hepatocyte functions, such as urea and albumin secretion, as well as increased expression of cytokaratin 18 and cyp4507a, occur concomitantly with surface E-cadherin expression. Furthermore, by incorporating soluble inducers, such as retinoic acid, into the permeable microcapsule system, we demonstrate decreased cell aggregation and enhanced neuronal lineage differentiation with the expression of various neuronal specific markers, including neurofilament, A2B5, O1 and GFAP. Therefore, as a result of capsule parameter and microenvironment manipulation, we are capable of targeting cellular differentiation to both endodermal and ectodermal cell lineages.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Detector geometry, thermal diffuse scattering and strain effects in ADF STEM imaging

Abstract Intensities of atomic-resolution Annular Dark Field Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (ADF STEM) images of zone-axis-oriented specimens change with defocus at rates that depend on lattice spacing. Thickness and strain effects on the intensities have been demonstrated. In this paper, image simulations (with some experimental basis) are presented that consider the dimensions of the ADF detector. Changing the inner radius of the detector seems to have relatively small effect on the image except to lower the detected intensity. Probe size was explored and a case identified where multiple scattering was important in the image. Thermal diffuse scattering (TDS) is important in high-angle scattering at room temperatures but it does not seem to alter the image appearance markedly. Finally, the image arising from the strain field around a single boron atom has been simulated and the results suggest increased scattering in agreement with observations. This mechanism may be adequate for single impurity atom detection at low temperatures and with special detector angles.
Professional practice, learning, and continuing education: an integrated perspective‡

The popular wisdom among professionals is that the knowledge they acquire from practice is far more useful than what they acquire from more formal types of education. This observation contradicts the dominant viewpoint in society and the professional education establishment that has given legitimacy to knowledge that is formal, abstract and general while devaluing knowledge that is local, specific and based in practice. This viewpoint has strongly influenced continuing education, which has followed the model set at the preservice level in focusing on the transmission of formal, abstract knowledge. In this paper, I describe and provide evidence for three propositions that build on the importance of knowledge gained from practice. These are: (1) the goal of professional practice is wise action; (2) knowledge acquired from practice is necessary to achieve this goal; and (3) a model of learning from practice should become the centrepiece of systems of continuing education for the professions. ‡This paper was ...
Consensus in Medical Decision Making: Analyzing the Environment of Discourse Ethics

Abstract In recent years geographic interest has focused increasingly on the moral and ethical dimensions of social constructions. Much of this work has followed the direction taken by moral philosophers whose principled approach has been applied to a range of ethically or morally problematic contexts. The challenge has been to apply a geographic perspective to an ethical dilemma that seems intractable at the level of ethical principle. This paper uses a geographic perspective to consider in a concrete fashion a current bioethical concern: defining who will or will not be eligible for an organ transplant. Methodologically, it uses the analytic hierarchy process, a multicriterion decision making approach, and Q‐analysis to analyze the resulting data. Long known by geographers, Q‐analysis presents a methodology for the analysis of relations between two sets of criteria, in this case focus groups and their responses to a hierarchy of criteria. The result is a topology that not only presents but also explains...
Inactivation of surrogate coronaviruses on hard surfaces by health care germicides

Background In the 2003 severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak, finding viral nucleic acids on hospital surfaces suggested surfaces could play a role in spread in health care environments. Surface disinfection may interrupt transmission, but few data exist on the effectiveness of health care germicides against coronaviruses on surfaces. Methods The efficacy of health care germicides against 2 surrogate coronaviruses, mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), was tested using the quantitative carrier method on stainless steel surfaces. Germicides were o-phenylphenol/p-tertiary amylphenol) (a phenolic), 70% ethanol, 1:100 sodium hypochlorite, ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA), instant hand sanitizer (62% ethanol), and hand sanitizing spray (71% ethanol). Results After 1-minute contact time, for TGEV, there was a log 10 reduction factor of 3.2 for 70% ethanol, 2.0 for phenolic, 2.3 for OPA, 0.35 for 1:100 hypochlorite, 4.0 for 62% ethanol, and 3.5 for 71% ethanol. For MHV, log 10 reduction factors were 3.9 for 70% ethanol, 1.3 for phenolic, 1.7 for OPA, 0.62 for 1:100 hypochlorite, 2.7 for 62% ethanol, and 2.0 for 71% ethanol. Conclusion Only ethanol reduced infectivity of the 2 coronaviruses by >3-log 10 after 1 minute. Germicides must be chosen carefully to ensure they are effective against viruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus.
Strongyloides ratti: Transfer of immunity in rats by lymph node cells or serum

Immune mesenteric lymph node cells (IMLNC) and hyperimmune serum, alone or in combination, were transferred to recipient, syngeneic Lewis rats. On the day of cell transfer, the recipients, along with appropriate controls, were infected with 1,000Strongyloides ratti larvae. Twelve days later, the number of adult worms in the anterior small intestine was counted and the number ofS. ratti eggs in the terminal uterus of representative female worms was determined. Using these methods, we showed that worm fecundity was reduced in the IMLNC recipients, the hyperimmune serum recipients, and the recipients of both cells and serum as compared with regular controls (averages of 2.45, 2.93, and 2.98 eggs, respectively, vs. 4.73 eggs). The number of adult worms recovered from the IMLNC recipients was not reduced (474.6 worms). However, significantly fewer worms were recovered from the recipients of IMLNC-hyperimmune serum and the recipients of hyperimmune serum only as compared with regular controls (184.8 and 171.5 worms, respectively, vs. 567.2 worms). A working hypothesis, involving an interaction of serum and cellular components, is postulated as the mechanism for this protective response.
Effects of a Proximal Base on Water Oxidation and Proton Reduction Catalyzed by Geometric Isomers of [Ru(tpy)(pynap)(OH2)]2+

Basic difference: The importance of a pendent base in promoting proton-coupled electron-transfer reactions with low activation barriers has been discussed for H(+) reduction or H(2) oxidation in acetonitrile. Investigation of the interaction between a base positioned in the second coordination sphere of a complex and a water ligand in water oxidation reactions using geometric isomers of [Ru(tpy)(pynap)(OH(2))](2+) (see picture) gave intriguing results.
High Frequency Characteristics Of 1.3 µm Lasers

A review of high frequency InGaAsP/InP laser structures is presented. The performance of these devices is analyzed based on a rate equations model. The effects of packaging and device parasitics on high speed modulation are also considered through a circuit configuration. The model is used to compare the relative advantages of the main high frequency laser structures in order to maximize the obtainable modulation bandwidth. The characteristics of buried crescent lasers with semi-insulating current-blocking layers are highlighted. A 3-dB direct modulation bandwidth of 11 GHz together with 42-mW output power has been achieved with this device.
Understanding Resistance: Reflections on Race and Privilege Through Service-Learning

Service-learning has been hailed as an effective means to bridge classroom learning with practical application in the local context. Numerous studies have demonstrated the educational value of service-learning, particularly the potential to build awareness and appreciation for diversity. Students’ resistance to even acknowledging issues of oppression, such as racism and classism, has received far less attention. This inquiry explored how 63 undergraduate students responded to issues concerning race and privilege as they participated in a service-learning course and identified sources of resistance (racial/class complicity, racial/class consciousness, and racial/class action) across racial/ethnic and class backgrounds. The study offers new implications for incorporating diversity issues in service-learning programs.
Phagocytosis of medically important yeasts by polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Phagocytosis is a critical function of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in the control of mycotic infections. By using a modified fluorescence quenching assay to distinguish between attached and ingested organisms, we determined the percent phagocytosis of several medically important yeasts. The percentages of phagocytosis of serum-opsonized Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis, and Torulopsis glabrata were all comparable at 37 degrees C. By comparison, there was significantly less phagocytosis of Cryptococcus neoformans and Trichosporon beigelii isolates (P < 0.001). Thus, phagocytosis of C. albicans by polymorphonuclear leukocytes is comparable to that of species other than C. albicans but is significantly greater than that of the basidiomycetous yeasts T. beigelii and C. neoformans.
NMR T2 distributions and two phase flow simulations from x-ray micro-tomography images of sandstones

The distribution of fluids in the pore space of a series of sandstones is calculated as a function of capillary pressure using a two phase flow simulation model. The pore space is represented by a system of channels and nodes which are derived from x-ray micro-tomography images of sandstones. The sandstones studied varied in permeability from approximately 40 to 3,000 mD. The simulation results illustrate the significance of the pore level by-pass phenomena in controlling the location of fluids within the pore structure. The implications of these results on the interpretation of NMR T(2) distributions to determine the irreducible water saturation are discussed.
Long-term EEG changes during direct cortical stimulation ☆

Abstract When repetitive electrical stimuli are directly applied to the cerebral cortex of the cerveau isole preparation of cats, long-term changes can be observed in the relative predominance of certain frequencies in the EEG spectrum. This response to stimuli presented at a constant frequency for several hours exhibits three distinct phases. In the first phase there is an increase in activity at most examined frequencies. The second phase is characterized by an increase in the response at the frequency of stimulation which is usually accompanied by a decrease in the other frequencies. The third phase shows a reversal of the latter pattern; i.e. , a relative fall of the activity at the frequency of stimulation. The tri-phasic pattern is reminiscent of the three response phases of organisms to non-reinforced stimulation. It was also found that the transitions between phases of the tri-phasic response would occur significantly earlier in cats that had been stimulated in a previous session than in cats that had not been previously stimulated. The results indicate that a lasting effect resembling memory of the first stimulation session continues to be present for at least 4 h afterwards.
Chemosterilant activity of antineoplastic agents.

Thirty-five antineoplastic agents were administered to adult house flies, Musca domestica L., by feeding or injection, and effects of the treatment on the flies' reproductive capacity were determined. For both sexes of the insect the most effective sterilants were alkylating agents; none of the hormonal drugs were active, but one antimetabolite sterilized females only. The category of miscellaneous antineoplastic agents contained several chemosterilants including l-asparaginase, the only known enzyme with insect-sterilizing effects.
Bacillus subtilis YdiH Is a Direct Negative Regulator of the cydABCD Operon

During aerobic respiration, Bacillus subtilis utilizes three terminal oxidases, cytochromes aa3, caa3, and bd. Cytochrome bd is encoded by the cydABCD operon. We report here the first identification of a regulator for the cydABCD operon, YdiH. While working with DeltaresDE mutant strains, we identified colonies which contained suppressor mutations (cmp) which bypassed the requirement for ResD for all phenotypes not associated with cytochrome aa3 or caa3. Mapping identified a class of Tn10 insertions which were close to the cmp locus (Tn10-2) and a second class (Tn10-1) which was inserted in cydD, a gene which appears to be essential to the cmp phenotype. Sequencing of the cmp loci from four independent DeltaresDE cmp isolates yielded four loss-of-function alleles of ydiH, a gene encoding a protein with homology to AT-rich DNA-binding proteins. Additionally, we determined that cytochrome bd was aberrantly expressed in the DeltaresDE cmp background. Together these data led to the hypothesis that YdiH serves as a negative regulator of cydABCD expression, a hypothesis supported by both gel-shift and DNase I footprinting analyses. YdiH protected the cydA promoter region at three 22-bp repeats located in the long 5' untranslated region (193 bp). Induction of the cydABCD operon in a DeltaresDE background showed that expression of the terminal oxidase bd was responsible for the bypass phenotype observed in a DeltaresDE cmp strain, indicating that cytochrome bd expression complemented the loss of cytochromes aa3 and caa3 in the DeltaresDE strain.
VARIETIES OF ENGLISH

From Error to Intelligibility: a Study of the Japanese Learner's Perception and Production of English. By Mineo Suenobu, in association with Kazuo Kanzaki and Shigeru Yamane.
Relationship between self-reported physical health problems and sleep disturbances among trauma survivors: a brief report.

Abstract Objectives History of trauma exposure is often associated with negative physical health outcomes. Better understanding of this association may have important implications for improved health and decreased health care–related costs. One possible link between trauma and poor health outcomes is the pernicious impact of sleep disturbances. In the present study, it was hypothesized that sleep quality would predict physical health symptoms above and beyond posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Methods Fifty-four trauma-exposed adults participated in a randomized controlled trial for treatment of trauma-related nightmares. Physical health symptoms, depression, PTSD symptoms, and sleep quality were assessed via self-report. Results Consistent with expectations, analyses revealed sleep quality uniquely contributed to physical health symptoms above and beyond PTSD and depression symptoms. Moreover, sleep quality mediated the relationship between PTSD symptoms and physical health symptoms. Conclusions Findings suggest sleep disturbances may require specific interventions to maximize positive physical and mental health outcomes.
Turbulent boundary layer separation over a rearward facing ramp and its control through mechanical excitation

A vane oscillating about a fixed point at the inlet to a two-dimensional 20 degree rearward facing ramp has proven effective in delaying the separation of a turbulent boundary layer. Measurements of the ramp surface static pressure coefficient obtained under the condition of vane oscillation and constant inlet velocity revealed that two different effects occurred with surface distance along the ramp. In the vicinity of the oscillating vane, the pressure coefficients varied as a negative function of the vane's trailing edge rms velocity; the independent variable on which the rms velocity depends are the vane's oscillation frequency and its displacement amplitude. From a point downstream of the vane to the exit of the ramp; however, the pressure coefficient varied as a more complex function of the two independent variables. That is, it was found to vary as a function of the vane's oscillation frequency throughout the entire range of frequencies covered during the test, but over only a limited range of the trailing edge displacement amplitudes covered. More specifically, the value of the pressure coefficient was independent of increases in the vane's displacement amplitude above approximately 35 inner wall units of the boundary layer. Below this specific amplitude it varied as a function of the vane's trailing edge rms velocity. This height is close to the upper limit of the buffer layer. A parametric study was made to determine the variation of the maximum static pressure recovery as a function of the vane's oscillation frequency, for several ramp inlet velocities and a constant displacement amplitude of the vane's trailing edge. The results indicate that the phenomenon producing the optimum delay of separation may be Strouhal number dependent. Corona anemometer measurements obtained in the inner wall regions of the boundary layer for the excited case reveal a large range of unsteadiness in the local velocities. These measurements imply the existence of inflections in the profiles, which provide a mechanism for resulting inviscid flow instabilities to produce turbulence in the near wall region, thereby delaying separation of the boundary layer.
Pharmacology, Clinical Uses, and Adverse Effects of Ceruletide, A Cholecystokinetic Agent

Ceruletide, a decapeptide, is a potent cholecystokinetic agent with a direct spasmogenic effect on the gallbladder muscle and bile ducts in humans and animals. It was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as an adjunct in x-ray examination of the gallbladder and small bowel. The drug causes a coordinated propulsive activity from the duodenum to the ileum and segmenting activity in the colon. Because of this stimulatory effect, ceruletide is useful not only diagnostically as an aid in x-ray examination of the small bowel, but also therapeutically for treatment of postoperative ileus, intestinal atonia, and chronic fecal statis. Because of its pancreatic stimulatory action, it is useful in evaluation of exocrine pancreatic function. In therapeutic doses the adverse effects noted are mild, transient extensions of the drug's pharmacologic actions and are manifest as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and rarely hypotension and tachycardia. On the basis of current evidence, ceruletide is a safe and effective cholecystokinetic agent and small bowel and exocrine pancreatic stimulant.
Class Conflict and Industrial Location

This paper examines the effect of class conflict on industrial location both theoretically and empirically. It demonstrates that there is a sound theoretical basis and empirical support for the conclusion that U.S. industries have chosen to abandon agglomeration and scale economies in order to secure a distribution of income that favors capital at the expense of labor. The decline of the U.S. manufacturing belt is examined with reference to union density, bargaining power, and the effects that large-scale production plants have on these factors. The meat packing industry in the postwar United States serves as a case study to establish the specific ways that class conflict has shaped the scale profile and geographic distribution of production plants. The paper builds upon the class conflict approach to urban and regional economics pioneered by Matthew Edel and David Gordon and aims to demonstrate its explanatory power. JEL classification: R30, J51, B51.
The Effect of Anvil Geometry and Welding Energy on Microstructures in Ultrasonic Spot Welds of AA6111-T4

The formation of ultrasonic spot welds of AA6111-T4 has been investigated using a single-transducer unidirectional wedge-reed welder. The evolution of weld microstructures and weld strength due to anvil cap geometry and welding energy was studied. The variations in lap-shear failure load and weld microstructures as a function of welding energy were only slightly influenced by the changes in the anvil cap geometry. Weld failure in lap-shear tensile tests occurs by interface fracture for low energy welds and by button formation for high energy welds. Initially, microwelds or weld islands several microns in diameter are generated presumably at asperities of the two pieces being joined. As the welding energy increases, the weld interface can change from a planar to a wavy morphology and the weld strength increases. Deformation wakes and bifurcation are ubiquitous in strong welds. Microporosity is observed at the periphery of growing weld islands and along the flow lines associated with the wavy deformation microstructures. Grain growth occurs inside the weld zone after isothermal annealing. However, the porous microstructure at the weld interface is not affected by isothermal annealing. Ultrasonic spot welding of AA6111-T4 aluminum was found to be insensitive to variations in anvil cap size and the knurl patterns investigated in this research.
Coexistence of Sparrows: A Test of Community Theory

A study of the coexistence of sparrows in grassland and woodland habitats of the Research Ranch in southeastern Arizona supports the predictability of current community theory. For each of the habitats studied, the production of seeds and the abundance of seed-eating, winter-resident sparrows were measured. The theory correctly predicts the number of species supported in each of the habitats. In both cases for which the prediction is that only one species could be supported, the theory correctly predicts which species should be present.
The Alternative Taxonomies of Melville's “The Encantadas”

The essay examines how Melville's “The Encantadas” reveals the colonial underpinnings of seemingly disinterested nineteenth-century natural history, particularly Darwin's The Voyage of the “Beagle.” Whereas Darwin's formulation of the Galapagos Islands grants readers dominion over exotic lands, Melville's slippery islands defy the classification-as-preparation-for-occupation scheme of texts like Darwin's.
Mechanical Stresses During Solid State Amorphization of Zr/Co Multilayers

Thin film structures of crystalline Zr and Co, deposited in UHV, are investigated by bending beam technique and by X-ray diffraction. During isothermal annealing and interdiffusion reaction of the thin film double layer and multilayer packages large compressive stresses are generated while an amorphous ZrCo-phase is formed. This can, at first hand, be understood in terms of the Kirkendall effect where Co atoms, as the main moving species, lead to a volume increase of the film beyond the Co interface. The observed change in Zr lattice spacing in accordance with the evolution of mechanical stress indicates that the compressive stress is built up particularly within the Zr layer due to the solution of Co in Zr grains during the initial amorphization reaction. Film structures, having Co already present in the crystalline Zr layer after film deposition, show a decrease in reaction kinetics combined with a lower stress level, indicating that the interdiffusion reaction is depending on the stress state in the Zr grains. At late stages of annealing in high vacuum a sudden increase of additional compressive stress is observed, which could be attributed to the oxidation of Zr, very likely due to the formation of diffusion paths for oxygen through the Co (cap-) layer (Kirkendall voids). Such oxidation behavior was not observed with samples measured in situ in UHV directly after film deposition.
Improvement in spirometry following lung volume reduction surgery: application of a physiologic model.

According to a previously published theoretical model of emphysema, the ratio of RV to TLC (RV/TLC) reflects the size mismatch between the hyperinflated lungs in the disease and the surrounding chest. The model suggests that RV/TLC is an important predictor of improvement in FVC and that increased FVC is an important determinant of increased FEV1 after lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS). We tested these predictions in 13 patients undergoing LVRS, in whom we made detailed measurements of lung mechanics. Using stepwise regression, we found that RV/TLC was the only preoperative independent predictor of the increase in FVC. Seventy percent of the increase in FEV1 was attributable to increased FVC, with the remainder due to increased FEV1/FVC. In a separate group of 78 LVRS patients evaluated with standard preoperative pulmonary function tests, RV/TLC again was found to correlate with the increase in FVC, and changes in FEV1 were also due largely to changes in FVC. However, RV/TLC was not predictive of the i...
Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase is required for Salmonella typhimurium virulence and resistance to reactive oxygen and nitrogen intermediates

Salmonella typhimurium zwf mutants lacking glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity have increased susceptibility to reactive oxygen and nitrogen intermediates as well as attenuated virulence in mice. Abrogation of the phagocyte respiratory burst oxidase during experimental infection with zwf mutant Salmonella causes a prompt restoration of virulence, while inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase results in delayed lethality. These observations suggest that G6PD-dependent bacterial antioxidant defenses play an important pathogenic role during early salmonellosis and additionally may help to antagonize NO-dependent antimicrobial mechanisms later in the course of infection.
Intracranial application of IMRT based radiosurgery to treat multiple or large irregular lesions and verification of infra-red frameless localization system

We have employed a frameless localization system for intracranial radiosurgery, utilizing a custom biteblock with fiducial markers and an infra-red camera for set-up and monitoring patient position. For multiple brain metastases or large irregular lesions, we use a single-isocenter intensity-modulated approach. We report our quality assurance measurements and our experience using Intensity Modulated Radiosurgery (IMRS) to treat such intracranial lesions. A phantom with integrated targets and fiducial markers was utilized to test the positional accuracy of the system. The frameless localization system was used for patient setup and target localization as well as for motion monitoring during treatment. Inverse optimization planning gave satisfactory dose coverage and critical organ sparing. Patient setup was guided by the infrared camera through fine adjustment in three translational and three rotational degrees for isocenter localization and verified by orthogonal kilovoltage (kV) images, taken before treatment to ensure the accuracy of treatment. The relative localization of the camera based system was verified to be highly accurate along three translational directions of couch motion and couch rotation. After verification, we began treating patients with this technique. About 8–12 properly selected fixed beams with a single isocenter were sufficient to achieve good dose coverage and organ sparing. Portal dosimetry with an Electronic Portal Imaging Device (EPID) and kV images provided excellent quality assurance for the IMRS plan and patient setup. The treatment time was less than 60 min to deliver doses of 16–20 Gy in a single fraction. The camera-based system was verified for positional accuracy and was deemed sufficiently accurate for stereotactic treatments. Single isocenter IMRS treatment of multiple brain metastases or large irregular lesions can be done within an acceptable treatment time and gives the benefits of dose-conformity and organ-sparing, easy plan QA, and patient setup verification.
Holding Back Moderates the Association Between Health Symptoms and Social Well-Being in Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Abstract Context Holding back, or withholding discussion of disease-related thoughts and emotions, is associated with negative outcomes including lower quality of life, diminished well-being, and relational distress. For patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the degree to which one holds back from discussing illness-related concerns may be an important determinant of social well-being and health; however, this has not been systematically assessed in this population. Objectives The purpose of the present study was to assess the moderating effects of holding back discussion of disease-related concerns on the relationship between health-related symptoms and social well-being in adult patients undergoing HSCT. Methods Seventy autologous ( n = 55) and allogeneic ( n = 15) HSCT patients completed measures of holding back, social well-being, and health symptoms (i.e., pain, fatigue, sleep problems, cognitive problems) both before and after transplantation (i.e., three months after transplantation and six months after transplantation). Results In patients with average to high levels of holding back, health symptoms were significantly related to lower levels of social well-being; however, for patients with low levels of holding back, the relationship between health symptoms and social well-being was not significant. Conclusion The results of the present study suggest that the level of holding back may be important in understanding how health-related symptoms relate to social well-being in patients undergoing HSCT. These findings underscore the importance of addressing how patients undergoing HSCT communicate about their disease with others as this may be related to their adjustment to illness and treatment.
A Lightweight Skeleton Construction Algorithm for Self-Organizing Sensor Networks

Although, current technology enables an inexpensive massive production of sensors, it raises numerous challenges on the protocols needed to interact with these sensors efficiently. Several techniques have been proposed to address each of these challenges individually (i.e. localization, clustering, routing, aggregation ... etc). Instead of solving each of these problems individually facing the same common challenges with each problem, we propose to construct what we call a network skeleton that is constructed immediately after network deployment and provides a topology that makes the network more tractable. The skeleton provides sensors with coarse localization information that enables them to associate their sensory data with the geographic location in which the data was measured. Moreover, it promotes a geographic routing scheme that simplifies data communication across the network through skeleton sensors. By hypothetically tiling the deployment area using identical hexagons, the construction algorithm clusters sensors based on their locations into hexagons. Skeleton sensors are chosen to be the closest sensors to the centers of these hexagons. Simulation results show that the accuracy of the proposed protocol to establish the skeleton is sufficient to make the approach applicable for most WSN applications.
Dopamine inhibits na,h-exchanger via D1-like receptor-mediated stimulation of protein kinase a in renal proximal tubules.

Dopamine causes natriuresis and diuresis via activation of D1-like receptors located in the renal proximal tubules. It is reported that this response to dopamine results from the inhibition of Na,H-exchanger and Na,K-ATPase. Earlier studies have suggested a role of protein kinase A (PKA) in the inhibition of Na,H-exchanger, however, the effect of dopamine or the dopamine receptor subtype responsible for the stimulation of PKA has not been reported. Present study was designed to examine the effect of dopamine and D1-like receptor agonist, SKF 38393, on the stimulation of PKA activity in rat renal proximal tubules. Dopamine and SKF 38393 (1 nM – 1 μM) caused stimulation of PKA activity, an effect which was antagonized by a D1-like receptor antagonist, SCH 23390 (10 μM). Stimulation of PKA activity was also seen with forskolin and di-butyryl cAMP. We also observed that dopamine and SKF 38393 inhibited Na,H-exchanger activity in the proximal tubules. This response was blocked by SCH 23390 and Rp-cAMPS triethy...
Examining individual differences in infants’ habituation patterns using objective quantitative techniques

The assessment of individual differences in infant habituation patterns is important for answering basic questions about continuity in cognitive development. Nevertheless, there are flaws with existing methods for determining relevant parameters of the cognitive processes associated with habituation. In this paper, a more rigorous, model-based alternative approach is illustrated. The approach demonstrates how the habituation data of individual infants may be fit by specific functions, how habituation may be distinguished from random responding, and how the parameter estimates of individual infants’ habituation functions might be analyzed for meaningful subgroups or clusters. The model-based approach provides novel insights about individual subgroups when applied to a real habituation data set and thereby demonstrates the feasibility and utility of the techniques advocated. © 2002 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
Causal effects in clinical and epidemiological studies via potential outcomes: concepts and analytical approaches.

▪ Abstract A central problem in public health studies is how to make inferences about the causal effects of treatments or agents. In this article we review an approach to making such inferences via potential outcomes. In this approach, the causal effect is defined as a comparison of results from two or more alternative treatments, with only one of the results actually observed. We discuss the application of this approach to a number of data collection designs and associated problems commonly encountered in clinical research and epidemiology. Topics considered include the fundamental role of the assignment mechanism, in particular the importance of randomization as an unconfounded method of assignment; randomization-based and model-based methods of statistical inference for causal effects; methods for handling noncompliance and missing data; and methods for limiting bias in the analysis of observational data, including propensity score matching and sensitivity analysis.
Intermittent high-dose ethanol exposure increases ethanol preference in rats.

Objective:Alcohol use disorders have both high social and economic costs and are among the leading causes of preventable death in the United States. Understanding the factors that contribute to escalation of alcohol intake is important in developing effective treatments for this problem. This study further characterizes the effects of limited intermittent exposure to high levels of alcohol on the preference for alcohol consumption over other incentives.Method:Fourteen male, Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to consume ethanol in a gelatin vehicle. They were then given free access to both ethanol gelatin and plain gelatin during daily choice periods interspersed with nonchoice periods (only plain gelatin access). After baseline ethanol preference was established, half of the rats were given eight injections of 3 g/kg ethanol during nonchoice periods (spread out over about 2 months), and the other half received saline injections. Ethanol preference was measured during subsequent choice periods.Results:Interm...
A Cost-Space Approach to Distributed Query Optimization in Stream Based Overlays

Distributed stream-based applications, such as continuous query systems, have network scale and time characteristics that challenge traditional distributed query optimization. The optimization sub-problems of plan generation and service placement should be integrated to meet these challenges. These tasks have typically been treated as independent sub-problems because of the complexity of their integration. We suggest cost spaces as one way to mitigate this complexity. We further consider how cost spaces can be used to allow tractable multi-query optimization.