cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Degradation of Electrical Contact Resistance of Metal Films at Low Contact Force

The quality of electrical contact resistance is important to the performance and reliability of metal-contact microelectromechanical system (MEMS) relays and switches. The cyclic degradation of contact resistance was examined for a metal multilayer sphere-on-flat contact at low contact force. The relationships between the degradation and underlying mechanisms, particularly surface contamination effects, were investigated through experimentation and analysis. Results indicated that the degradation severity could be significantly decreased with environmental control and contact current reduction. Micro-arcs at very small surface gaps, which can decompose adsorbed contaminants and leave an insulating surface film, were proposed as a cause of the resistance degradation.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Photochemistry of dibenzothiophene-S,S-dioxide: Reactions of a highly constrained biradical

Abstract Photolysis of dibenzothiophene sulfoxide in isopropanol provides biphenyl in quantitative yield via two sequential photochemical reactions. Mechanistic aspects of the reaction are discussed, including the unusual observation that isoprene increases the quantum yield of loss of starting material.
The α‐Hydroxy Ketone (α‐Ketol) and Related Rearrangements †

Treatment of suitable alpha-hydroxy aldehydes and ketones with a base, a Bronsted or Lewis acid, or simply with heat has long been know to induce the 1,2-shift of an alkyl or aryl substituent to form an isomeric product. The synthetic utility of the process was considerably expanded when applied to steroidal D-ring homoannulations, and has more recently encompassed novel ring expansion to numerous complex target ring systems. The classical alpha-ketol rearrangement shares, in common with other base-promoted ketogenic isomerizations, the property of advancing from an alkoxide to a carbonyl group as the migrating center relocates its bonding electrons to the adjacent trigonal center. A distinctive feature of the title reaction, however, is its reversibility, such that the more stable alpha-hydroxy carbonyl isomer is favored. The process has sometimes been termed the acyloin rearrangement. This chapter focuses on the isomerization of alpha-hydroxy ketones, aldehydes, and imines under various reaction conditions exclusive of photochemical activation. The literature coverage extends to 2000. Since many of the steroidal transformations were carried out in early days when products were not always adequately characterized; errors in structural assignment were occasionally made. Experimental detail was sometimes lacking. To alleviate this problem, we have included only experiments that lead to reasonably pure products of established structure. Keywords: rearrangements; acyclic alpha hydroxyl ketones; cyclic alpha ketols; bridged alpha ketols; steroidal alpha ketols; complex polycyclics; hydroxy aldehydes; hydroxy imines; tautomerization; carbohydrates; chain extension; tosyl isocyanide; enolates; silyl enol ethers; silyl ketene acetals; experimental procedures; other methods; scope; limitations
Changes in integrin receptors on oncogenically transformed cells.

Abstract Oncogenically transformed cells show reduced assembly of fibronectin-rich extracellular matrixes and diminished ability to adhere to fibronectin. The molecular bases of these phenotypic alterations are not fully understood. We report here alterations in the spectrum of integrins, including two fibronectin receptors, on oncogenic transformation of rodent cells. Transformation of rat1, NRK, and Nil8 cells by Rous sarcoma virus or by murine sarcoma viruses encoding ras oncogenes leads to reductions in the level of integrin α 5 β 1 , which is a well-defined fibronectin receptor, and of two other integrin receptors. In contrast, another receptor, α 3 β 1 , which is a polyspecific receptor for fibronectin, laminin, and collagen, is retained by transformed cells. These results provide explanations for earlier results concerning the interactions of extracellular matrix proteins with the surfaces of tumor cells and offer leads to further understanding of the altered adhesive and migratory behavior of malignant cells.
Crosstalk analysis of integrated Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode focal plane arrays

Arrays of photon-counting Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes (APDs) sensitive to 1.06 and 1.55 Pm wavelengths and as large as 256 x 64 elements on 50 Pm pitch have been fabricated for defense applications. As array size, and element density increase, optical crosstalk becomes an increasingly limiting source of spurious counts. We characterize the crosstalk by measurement of emitted light, and by extracting the spatial and temporal focal plane array (FPA) response to the light from FPA dark count statistics. We discuss the physical and geometrical causes of FPA crosstalk, suggest metrics useful to system designers, then present measured crosstalk metrics for large FPAs as a function of their operating parameters. We then present FPA designs that suppress crosstalk effects and show more than 40 times reduction in crosstalk.
Linking Social Structure and Interpersonal Behavior: A Theoretical Perspective on Cultural Schemas and Social Relations

To explain how interpersonal behavior in relational contexts usually reproduces but sometimes modifies macro structural patterns, I outline a conceptual framework within which to understand existing theories and evidence and to develop new ones. Actors create and enact structure by means of several types of shared cultural sch?mas ("'order ing sch?mas") that represent or imply relations between specific or abstract actors. "Modular" ordering sch?mas such as fundamental sentiments, social identities, or status beliefs disaggregate the meanings of identities, settings, and events from their embedded contexts and represent them in abstract form. Generative theories view actors as pos sessing shared "vocabularies" of modular ordering sch?mas and shared sch?mas for combining those modular meanings to generate interpersonal behavior that responds flexibly to situational contingencies. The generated behavior largely reproduces struc tural patterns represented in modular sch?mas, but can produce novel patterns through unique combinations of cultural information. I then discuss how modular ordering sch?mas develop and become widely shared.
An algorithm for multipoint constraints in finite element analysis

A method of introducing general constraint equations into finite element matrix equations is described. The characteristics of the method are that it requires no reordering or condensation of the equations, no large matrix operations, and no increase in the number of unknowns. The method is suitable for application in minicomputer implementations of finite element analysis unless a large number of constraints is to be applied.
On Global Energy Release Rate of a Permeable Crack in a Piezoelectric Ceramic

A permeable crack model is proposed to analyze crack growth in a piezoelectric ceramic. In this model, a permeable crack is modeled as a vanishing thin, finite dimension, rectangular slit with dielectric medium inside. A first-order approximation solution is derived in terms of the slit height, h o . The main contribution of this paper is that the newly proposed permeable crack model reveals that there exists a realistic leaky mode for electrical field, which allows applied electric field passing through the dielectric medium inside a crack. By taking into account the leaky mode effect, a correct estimation of electrical and mechanical fields in front of a crack tip in a piezoelectric ceramic is obtained. To demonstrate this new finding, a closed-form solution is obtained for a mode III permeable crack under both mechanical as well electrical loads. Both local and global energy release rates are calculated based on the permeable crack solution obtained. It is found that the global energy release rate derived for a permeable crack is in a broad agreement with Some known experimental observations. It may be served as a fracture criterion for piezoelectric materials. This contribution reconciles the outstanding discrepancy between experimental observation and theoretical analysis on crack growth problem in piezoelectric materials.
Sensory scales of taste Intensity

The subjective intensity of taste was scaled by the method of magnitude estimation in which Os assigned numbers to designate the apparent strength ofstimulus concentrations. Substances used were sucrose, dextrose, maltose, fructose, saccharin, Sucaryl, sodium chloride, and quinine sulfate. For aqueous solutions of each substance, taste intensity was found to increase as a power function of concentration by weight. Some approximate exponents were: sucrose, 1.3; sodium chloride, 1.4; quinine sulfate. 1.0. The magnitude scale for sucrose was compared with the category scale obtained by a commonly used rating procedure. The category scale turned out to be highly nonlinear.
Locally advanced primary colorectal cancer: Intraoperative electron and external beam irradiation ± 5-FU

Abstract Purpose: For locally advanced primary colorectal cancer, our institution has combined intraoperative electron irradiation (IOERT) with external beam irradiation (EBRT) ± 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and surgical resection. Disease control and survival were compared with the current IOERT and prior non-IOERT dose of 10–20 Gy, usually combined with 45–55 Gy of fractionated EBRT; 56 had minimum follow-up of 18 months. The amount of residual disease remaining at IOERT after exploration and maximal resection in the 56 patients was gross in 16, ≤ microscopic in 39, and unresected in 1. Results: Survival (SR) and disease control were analyzed as a function of potential prognostic factors. Factors that achieved statistical significance for improved overall survival included treatment sequence of preop EBRT + 5-FU (vs. postoperative EBRT + 5-FU, p = 0.003) amd ≤ microscopic residual disease after maximal resection (vs. gross residual, p = 0.005). Those that appeared to favorably impact disease-free survival included EBRT + 5-FU (vs. EBRT alone, p = 0.01 ), ≤ microscopic residual (vs. gross, p = 0.0014 ), and colon site of primary (vs. rectum, p = 0.009). Failures within an irradiation field have occurred in 4 of 16 patients (25%) who presented with gross residual after partial resection vs. 2 of 39 (5%) with ≤ microscopic residual after gross total resection ( p = 0.01). The significant prognostic factors for a decrease in distant metastases were the same as for disease-free DR with respective p -values of 0.013 (EBRT + 5-FU), 0.008 (microscopic residual), and 0.03 (colon primary). The current data suggests a relationship between IOERT dose and incidence of Grade 2 or 3 neuropathy (≤12.5 Gy—1 of 29 or 3%, ≤ 16 Gy—6 of 26 or 23%, p = 0.03 ). Conclusion: Both overall survival and disease control appear to be improved with the addition of IOERT to standard treatment. More routine use of systemic therapy is indicated as a component of IOERT containing treatemnt regimens because the incidence of distant metastases was ∼50% of patients at risk.
Selective oxidation of buried AlGaAs versus AlAs layers

We report significant differences between the properties of buried oxides converted from AlGaAs and AlAs layers using selective wet oxidation. Layers of AlxGa1−xAs with x≥0.96 exhibit crystallographic dependent oxidation rates, while for layers with x≤0.92 the oxidation rate is isotropic. Mesas containing partially oxidized layers of AlAs are unstable to rapid thermal cycling and exhibit excessive strain at the oxide terminus, while mesas containing partially oxidized layers of AlGaAs are robust and lack evidence of strain. Finally, the oxidation of AlGaAs layers, rather than AlAs, is found to provide robust oxide apertures for reliable vertical‐cavity surface emitting lasers.
Generation of multimodels and selection of the optimal model for real-time simulation

As we model a complex system, modelers need a way to better handle multiple perspectives of the system. Finding a model of a complex system that is at the right level of detail for a specific purpose is a difficult task. Also there is a need to simulate the model under a time constraint, when the modeled system has to meet a given deadline in order to avoid hard/soft disasters. Considering these different needs, our question is 'How to determine the optimal model that simulates the system by a given deadline while still producing good quality at the right level of detail.' We try to answer this question on multimodeling object oriented simulation environment (MOOSE). The proposed framework has three phase: (1) Generation of multimodels in MOOSE using both structural and behavioral abstraction technique, (2) Assessment of quality and runtime for each generated model, (3) Selection of the optimal model for a given real-time constraint. A more detailed model is selected when we have enough time to simulate but a less detailed model is selected when the deadline is immediate.
Reggae, Rastafarians and Revolution: Rock Music in the Third World

Histoire, signification sociale et culturelle de la musique reggae et du mouvement rastafari en Jamaique.
Demonstration of an adenosine receptor on human lymphocytes in vitro and its possible role in the adenosine deaminase-deficient form of severe combined immunodeficiency☆

Abstract Adenosine receptors have been described in brain, bone, and platelets. Stimulation of this receptor by adenosine results in increased adenyl cyclase activity and accumulation of cyclic AMP. We have identified an adenosine receptor on human peripheral lymphocytes. Adenosine (5–100 μ M ) increased lymphocyte cyclic AMP levels by 100% during a 5-min incubation. Adenine was without stimulatory effect. Theophylline, which did not alter cyclic AMP levels when added alone, reduced the effect of added adenosine by 33% during a 5-min incubation. Norepinephrine alone elevated cyclic AMP levels 500–900% and the effects of adenosine and norepinephrine were additive. These data fulfill the criteria for the demonstration of a specific adenosine receptor. T lymphocytes isolated from a patient with x-linked agammaglobulinemia also demonstrated the presence of the adenosine receptor linked to cyclic AMP accumulation. Persistently elevated levels of cyclic AMP inhibit both lymphocyte proliferation and antibody synthesis. Patients with adenosine deaminase deficiency and severe combined immunodeficiency have markedly impaired lymphocyte proliferation and antibody production. These patients have also been found to have an increased intracellular concentration of ATP and elevated levels of plasma adenosine. Theophylline (0.5 m M ), which decreases cyclic AMP breakdown by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, inhibited normal lymphocyte proliferation by 50%. In contrast, the same concentration of theophylline inhibited adenosine deaminase-deficient lymphocyte proliferation by 89%. These data suggest that the immunologic defects in severe combined immunodeficiency and adenosine deaminase deficiency may result in part from excessive cyclic AMP synthesis associated with overstimulation of the adenosine receptor-adenyl cyclase pathway.
Effect of 2 corpora lutea on blood perfusion, peripheral progesterone, and hepatic steroid-inactivating enzymes in dairy cattle

Abstract The luteal structure that develops postovulation is critical to the facilitation and maintenance of pregnancy in dairy cattle. The objectives of this experiment were to determine if the induction of an accessory corpus luteum (CL), via human chorionic gonadotropin, altered blood perfusion of CL, peripheral concentrations of progesterone, or hepatic steroid-inactivating enzymes. Twenty-eight late-lactation Holstein cows were synchronized using the Ovsynch protocol and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment groups. Cows received either an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (1,000 IU, i.m.) to induce an accessory CL (cows had exactly 2 CL in 1 ovary) or no treatment (cows had exactly 1 CL). Corpora lutea were examined daily from d 10 to 18 (d 0 was induced ovulation) via Doppler ultrasonography and a blood sample was collected. Volume of the CL was recorded, as well as images and videos of each CL, which were analyzed for blood perfusion. On d 13, a liver biopsy was performed to analyze hepatic steroid-inactivating enzymes. Cows with 1 or 2 CL had similar peripheral concentrations of progesterone. Cows with 2 CL had similar luteal volumes to cows with 1 CL but cows with 2 CL had greater total luteal blood perfusion. Hepatic enzyme [cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A, 3A, and 2C, aldo-keto reductase 1C, and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase] activities did not differ between cows with 1 and 2 CL. Overall, the observed increase in total luteal blood perfusion in cows with 2 CL did not correspond to differences in peripheral concentrations of progesterone or clearance of progesterone measured by the hepatic enzyme activity. This could indicate that induction of an accessory CL would not affect concentrations of progesterone necessary to maintain pregnancy.
Stochastic Simulation of Patterns Using Distance-Based Pattern Modeling

The advent of multiple-point geostatistics (MPS) gave rise to the integration of complex subsurface geological structures and features into the model by the concept of training images. Initial algorithms generate geologically realistic realizations by using these training images to obtain conditional probabilities needed in a stochastic simulation framework. More recent pattern-based geostatistical algorithms attempt to improve the accuracy of the training image pattern reproduction. In these approaches, the training image is used to construct a pattern database. Consequently, sequential simulation will be carried out by selecting a pattern from the database and pasting it onto the simulation grid. One of the shortcomings of the present algorithms is the lack of a unifying framework for classifying and modeling the patterns from the training image. In this paper, an entirely different approach will be taken toward geostatistical modeling. A novel, principled and unified technique for pattern analysis and generation that ensures computational efficiency and enables a straightforward incorporation of domain knowledge will be presented. In the developed methodology, patterns scanned from the training image are represented as points in a Cartesian space using multidimensional scaling. The idea behind this mapping is to use distance functions as a tool for analyzing variability between all the patterns in a training image. These distance functions can be tailored to the application at hand. Next, by significantly reducing the dimensionality of the problem and using kernel space mapping, an improved pattern classification algorithm is obtained. This paper discusses the various implementation details to accomplish these ideas. Several examples are presented and a qualitative comparison is made with previous methods. An improved pattern continuity and data-conditioning capability is observed in the generated realizations for both continuous and categorical variables. We show how the proposed methodology is much less sensitive to the user-provided parameters, and at the same time has the potential to reduce computational time significantly.
Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers in Hemodialysis Patients

Purpose: Exercise participation in hemodialysis centers remains low despite the opportunity, equipment, and proven benefits. The purpose of this study was to measure the perceived benefits and perceived barriers to exercise participation. Methods: A questionnaire using the Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale was administered to 150 in-center, chronic hemodialysis patients at a free standing dialysis center with an ongoing exercise program for three years. This survey was adapted to show the patients’ perceived benefits and barriers of exercise in the dialysis unit. Results: The overall score of the unit (n = 150) was 92.0 ± 12.2 with a possible range from 31 to 124. Exercisers (n = 32) had a mean of 98.1 ± 12.3 on the scale; non-exercisers (n = 118) had a mean on 90.4 ± 11.7 (p < .05). Answers to 12 of the 31 questions were significant (p < .05). Seven questions were perceived benefits; five questions were perceived barriers. All (n = 150) Non Exercisers (n = 118) Exercisers (n = 32) Mean Mean Mean Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale 92 ± 12.2 90.4 ± 11.7 98.1 ± 12.3 Benefits 62.1 ± 10.2 61.2 ± 9.8 65.3 ± 11.0 Barriers 29.6 ± 4.6 28.8 ± 4.6 32.9 ± 3.2 Questions with p < .05 Enjoy exercise 3.0 ± 0.7 2.7 ± 0.9 3.4 ± 0.6 Prevent heart attacks 3.3 ± 0.6 2.9 ± 0.8 3.4 ± 0.6 Improve cardiovascular system 3.1 ± 0.7 3.1 ± 0.7 3.4 ± 0.6 Difficult due to vision 3.3 ± 0.8 3.3 ± 0.8 3.7 ± 0.5 Difficult due to arthritis 2.9 ± 1.0 2.8 ± 1.0 3.6 ± 0.6 Takes too much time 3.0 ± 0.7 2.9 ± 0.7 3.3 ± 0.6 Boring 3.3 ± 0.6 3.0 ± 0.8 3.3 ± 0.7 Increase physical fitness 3.2 ± 0.6 3.0 ± 0.6 3.3 ± 0.6 Increase stamina 3.2 ± 0.6 3.1 ± 0.5 3.4 ± 0.7 Family does not encourage 2.7 ± 0.9 2.7 ± 0.9 3.1 ± 0.8 Carry out activities without tiring 3.0 ± 0.7 2.9 ± 0.7 3.2 ± 0.7 Improve body function 2.9 ± 0.7 2.8 ± 0.7 3.1 ± 0.7 Conclusion: Physical improvement was the main reason to exercise. Lack of desire and health problems were the chief reasons named for not exercising. Addressing the benefits and barriers may improve exercise participation among chronic hemodialysis patients.
Acute pharmacokinetic and hemodynamic effects of intravenous bolus dosing of nicardipine.

The antihypertensive effects, duration of action, and pharmacokinetics of intravenous bolus doses of nicardipine were investigated in a series of patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension. Patients with a supine diastolic blood pressure between 95 and 114 mm Hg and a heart rate
Synovial hemangioma of the interphalangeal joint: a case report

Among the differential diagnosis for lesions of the hand, synovial hemangioma of the articular surface and tendon sheath is often overlooked due to its rare nature. In comparison to more abundant reports describing their involvement of the knee joint, our literature review found only six cases involving the hand or wrist. We present our recent experience in treating a 17-year-old female diagnosed with synovial hemangioma of the long finger proximal interphalangeal joint. In addition, we have submitted pertinent imaging and pathological findings for review with the intent to increase awareness of synovial hemangioma during evaluation of hand lesions.
Isolation of nuclei from mature peritoneal granulocytes.

Nuclei from mature neutrophil granulocytes were prepared from peritonal exudates of goats. Fluorescein mercuric acetate was required to stabilize the nuclei and fix nucleoproteins. Following differential centrifugation and detergent treatment, electron microscopy showed the interlobar region to be free of cytoplasmic tabs. All of the DNA of the cell was recovered in the nucleus and 71% of the RNA. The DNA : RNA was 6 : 1 in the intact cells, and 9 : 1 in the isolated nuclei. Protein:DNA was 11 : 1 and 4 : 1 for cells and nuclei, respectively. Representative fractions of histones and tryptophan-rich acidic proteins were prepared with (asp + glu) : (lys + arg + hist) values averaging 0.7 and 1.4 respectively. Histones accounted for 30% of the nuclear proteins while the residual proteins contained the bulk of the cystinyl residues. Granulocytes were characterized by high glycine titers, from 8 to 18% of the nuclear proteins, and 70% of the total free amino acids of the cell.
GC/MS-FID analysis of BSTFA derivatized polar components of diesel particulate matter (NBS SRM-1650) extract

Hydroxy and acid compounds, present in the polar HPLC fraction number 8 from the NBS-SRM 1650 (diesel particulate extract) were derivatized with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)-trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) to form the trimethylsilane (TMS) derivatives. This improved the gas-chromatographic separation to give an improved characterisation using GC-MS. TMS derivatives were only observed in the acid extract of an aliquot of HPLC fraction number 8 which had undergone an acid-base fractionation. A number of previously unidentified compounds in fraction 8 could be characterised using mass spectroscopy. Ion mass chromatograms, recorded at m/z 73, 89 and 147 were correlated with the total ion current (TIC) to identify derivatized compounds. Only single, two and three ring derivatized aromatics were observed. The compounds identified in this polar fraction of the extract included p-nitrophenol, benzoic acid, hydroxy-benzoic acids, hydroxy-benzaldehyde, hydroxy-phthalimide, benzene dicarboxylic acids, naphthalene dicarboxylic acids, anthracene/phenanthrene dicarboxylic acids and, for some of these, the C1 to C3 alkyl homologues. Several methyl esters were also observed including biphenyl dimethyl ester and benzene trimethyl ester.
The mine and the furnace: Francis Bacon, Thomas Russell, and early Stuart mining culture.

Notwithstanding Francis Bacon's praise for the philosophical role of the mechanical arts, historians have often downplayed Bacon's connections with actual artisans and entrepreneurs. Addressing the specific context of mining culture, this study proposes a rather different picture. The analysis of a famous mining metaphor in The Advancement of Learning shows us how Bacon's project of reform of knowledge could find an apt correspondence in civic and entrepreneurial values of his time. Also, Bacon had interesting and so far unexplored links with the early modern English mining enterprises, like the Company of Mineral and Battery Works, of which he was a shareholder. Moreover, Bacon's notes in a private notebook, Commentarius Solutus, and records of patents of invention, allow us to start grasping Bacon's connections with the metallurgist and entrepreneur Thomas Russell. Lastly, this paper argues that, to fully understand Bacon's links with the world of Stuart technicians and entrepreneurs, it is necessary to consider a different and insufficiently studied aspect of Bacon's interests, namely his work as patents referee while a Commissioner of Suits.
Effects of fillers on fracture performance of thermoplastics: Strain energy density criterion

Fillers have been widely used in commercial production of polymers to improve physical properties for specific applications. The main effects of fillers on polymers are the increase of modulus and hardness, and reduction of creep and distortion at elevated temperature [1, 2]. According to the type of reinforcement provided, fillers are often divided into three classes: one-dimensional (fibers), two-dimensional (flakes or platelets), or three-dimensional (spheres or beads).
Distributed Manufacturing Networks: Optimization via Preprocessing in Decision Guidance Query Language

The authors consider optimization problems expressed in Decision Guidance Query Language that may involve linear arithmetic constraints, as well as finite domain and binary variables. They focus on Distributed Manufacturing Network optimization problems in which only a part of the problem is dynamic, i.e., the demand for the output products in a manufacturing network, whereas the rest of the problem is static, i.e., the connectivity graph of the assembly processes and the cost functions of machines. The authors propose the Online Decomposition Algorithm based on offline preprocessing that optimizes each static problem component for discretized values of shared constraint variables, and approximate the optimal aggregated utility functions. The Online Decomposition Algorithm uses the pre-processed approximated aggregated cost functions to decompose the original problem into smaller problems, and utilizes search heuristics for the combinatorial part of the problem based on the pre-processed look-up tables. They also conduct an initial experimental evaluation which shows that the Online Decomposition Algorithm, as compared with Mixed Integer Linear Programming, provides an order of magnitude improvement in terms of both computational time and the quality of found solutions for a class of problems for which pre-processing is possible.
Telerobotic foregut and esophageal surgery

Computer-assisted telerobotic surgery has many potential advantages over standard laparoscopy in foregut and esophageal surgery. The high-definition, three-dimensional images produced by the optics of these systems can facilitate identification of anatomy and dissection during surgery. The full range of motion afforded by the multiarticulated instruments can be beneficial in completing complex laparoscopic tasks such as suturing and intracorporeal knot tying. Tremor filtration and motion scaling allows for more precise movements during surgery. The remote console provides the operating surgeon with a comfortable ergonomic position during the sometimes long and complex procedures. Despite the many advantages of these systems, however, several limitations still exist. It is expected that the development and refinement of these technologies will address many of these issues. With continued progress, it is likely that this technology will disseminate widely throughout the surgical community.
Psychiatric disorders in rapid-onset dystonia-parkinsonism

Objective: Rapid-onset dystonia-parkinsonism (RDP) is caused by a variety of missense mutations in the ATP1A3 gene. Psychiatric comorbidity has been reported, although systematic examination of psychiatric disease in individuals with RDP is lacking. This study examines psychiatric morbidity for 23 patients with RDP in 10 families with family member control subjects and in 3 unrelated patients with RDP, totaling 56 individuals. Methods: Twenty-nine ATP1A3 mutation–positive individuals were examined; 26 exhibited motor symptoms (motor manifesting carrier [MMC]) and 3 did not (nonmotor manifesting carriers [NMC]). Twenty-seven ATP1A3 mutation-negative participants (noncarriers [NC]) were included. Rates of psychiatric illness for patients with RDP and related asymptomatic gene mutation carriers were compared with those for related nonmutation carriers. Outcome measures included the Unified Parkinson9s Disease Rating Scale, Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, Composite International Diagnostic Interview, Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV , Hamilton Depression Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Scale, and Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale. Results: NMC participants did not report any history of psychiatric disorder. Findings in MMC and NC groups included anxiety (MMC 48, NC 41%), mood (MMC 50%, NC 22%), psychotic (MMC 19%, NC 0%), and substance abuse/dependence (MMC 38%, NC 27%). Conclusions: ATP1A3 mutations cause a wide spectrum of motor and nonmotor features. Psychotic symptoms tended to emerge before or concurrent with motor symptom onset, suggesting that this could be another expression of the ATP1A3 gene mutation.
What is the Meaning of Death to the Dying Person and his Survivors

Death is interpreted in many ways by the dying person and his family-as a deprivation, a threat, a punishment, etc. This article explores several sets of psychodynamics that are associated with the meanings we give to death. Particular attention is given to guilt, “identification with death,” the unconscious equation between dying and being devoured, and attitudes toward Heaven and Hell. Some implications for relating to the dying person are discussed.
A Method for Selecting Structure-switching Aptamers Applied to a Colorimetric Gold Nanoparticle Assay

Small molecules provide rich targets for biosensing applications due to their physiological implications as biomarkers of various aspects of human health and performance. Nucleic acid aptamers have been increasingly applied as recognition elements on biosensor platforms, but selecting aptamers toward small molecule targets requires special design considerations. This work describes modification and critical steps of a method designed to select structure-switching aptamers to small molecule targets. Binding sequences from a DNA library hybridized to complementary DNA capture probes on magnetic beads are separated from nonbinders via a target-induced change in conformation. This method is advantageous because sequences binding the support matrix (beads) will not be further amplified, and it does not require immobilization of the target molecule. However, the melting temperature of the capture probe and library is kept at or slightly above RT, such that sequences that dehybridize based on thermodynamics will also be present in the supernatant solution. This effectively limits the partitioning efficiency (ability to separate target binding sequences from nonbinders), and therefore many selection rounds will be required to remove background sequences. The reported method differs from previous structure-switching aptamer selections due to implementation of negative selection steps, simplified enrichment monitoring, and extension of the length of the capture probe following selection enrichment to provide enhanced stringency. The selected structure-switching aptamers are advantageous in a gold nanoparticle assay platform that reports the presence of a target molecule by the conformational change of the aptamer. The gold nanoparticle assay was applied because it provides a simple, rapid colorimetric readout that is beneficial in a clinical or deployed environment. Design and optimization considerations are presented for the assay as proof-of-principle work in buffer to provide a foundation for further extension of the work toward small molecule biosensing in physiological fluids.
Hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia: new MR findings.

Cet article presente un cas de nodule hyperplasique hepatique constate en RM a spin-echo: hypointense par rapport au parenchyme hepatique normal en sequence de pulsation T 1 et isointense en T 2
Allozyme diversity in wild Phaseolus vulgaris: further evidence for two major centers of genetic diversity

Allozyme analysis was performed on 83 wild Phaseolus vulgaris accessions, representing a wide geographical distribution from Mesoamerica to Argentina, to determine levels of genetic diversity and geographic patterns of variability at nine polymorphic isozyme loci. The collection can be divided into two major groups, one consisting of accessions from Mexico, Central America, Colombia and Peru, and the other consisting of accessions from Peru and Argentina. One accession from northern Peru is distinct from the two major groups, and may delineate a transition zone between the two divergent groups. The level of genetic diversity within wild P. vulgaris (Ht=0.132) is comparable with those found in other Phaseolus species. There was no significant within-accession gene diversity (Hs=0.006); however, there is a moderate level of genetic diversity (Dst=0.126) between accessions. Our results are consistent with previous studies on the genetic diversity of wild P. vulgaris using phaseolin, the major seed storage protein of beans.
The effect of efficiency standards on water use and water-heating energy use in the U.S.: A detailed end-use treatment

Abstract We analyze U.S. residential water use and water-heater energy use and apply this analysis to investigate water and energy savings associated with U.S. equipment efficiency standards currently in force.
Supra-physiological membrane potential induced conformational changes in K+ channel conducting system of skeletal muscle fibers

The effects of a supra-physiological membrane potential shock on the conducting system of the delayed rectifier K(+) channels in the skeletal muscle fibers of frogs were studied. An improved double Vaseline gap voltage clamp technique was used to deliver stimulation pulses and to measure changes in the channel currents. Our results showed that a single 4 ms, -400 mV pulsed shock can cause a reduction in the K(+) channel conductance and a negative-shift of the channel open-threshold. Following the Boltzmann theory of channel voltage-dependence, we analyzed the shock-induced changes in the channel open-probability by employing both two-state and multi-state models. The results indicate a reduction in the number of channel gating particles after the electric shock, which imply possible conformational changes at domains that gate the channels proteins. This study provides further evidence supporting our hypothesis that high intensity electric fields can cause conformational changes in membrane proteins, most likely in the channel gating system. These structural changes in membrane proteins, and therefore their dysfunctions, may be involved in the mechanisms underlying electrical injury.
Increase in white blood cell count and serum sodium level following the addition of lithium to carbamazephine treatment among three chronically psychotic male patients with disturbed affective states

Three male chronically psychotic patients (mean age 33.0±S.D. 7.2 years), two with schizoaffective disorder and one with organic affective disorder, received carbamazepine (CBZ) because of affective symptoms (and, in one case, partial complex seizures) refractory to management with antipsychotic drugs. Coincident with CBZ administration (and clinical improvement), hyponatremia developed thought to be due to the antidiuretic effect of this drug. Lithium was added to counteract the antidiuretic effect of CBZ. Further clinical improvement ensured, serum sodium levels became normal, and there was an increase in the white blood cell count in each patient. The clinical implications of our findings are discussed.
Two phase cluster model in riser reactors: impact of radial density distribution on yields

Recent cold flow data (Miller et al., 1994) have shown that the manner in which the oil and catalyst are initially contacted in fluid catalytic cracker risers has a major impact on the radial density profile at the riser bottom. These results show that circumferential oil injection has a much more uniform radial density distribution than the traditional axial oil injection. In order to assess the impact of the improvements in radial density distribution on conversion and product selectivity, a two-phase heterogeneous model for riser reactors operating in pneumatic transport has been developed. The model consists of a dispersed cluster phase which contains all the catalyst and is where the bulk of the catalytic reactions occur, and a continuous oil phase with mass transfer between the phases. A simple three- component kinetic model is used to describe the rates of reaction which occur in the cluster phase. The average concentration of any component at any axial or radial position in the riser is then determined by the density-weighted average of the cluster phase and the oil phase at that position using experimental values for the radial density distribution. The radial density distributions were obtained in a cold flow riser unit simulating FCC riser reactor hydrodynamic performance. The resulting model matches commercial radial and axial conversion and gasoline yield profiles. This model provides a basis to determine the incentives for improving the mass transfer between the two phases in the riser by making hardware modifications. For example, the model predicts that the circumferential feed nozzle configuration would increase conversion by about 3 wt% over the traditional axial configuration.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy may be ineffective for secondary prevention of colorectal cancer in asymptomatic, average-risk men.

Asymptomatic men (N=114) 50 years of age or older had screening for colorectal neoplasia with flexible sigmoidoscopy followed by colonoscopy regardless of the sigmoidoscopic result. Our study objective was to determine the prevalence of patients having isolated adenomatous polyps in a proximal colonic segment in the absence of a distal index neoplasm within reach of the sigmoidoscope. Through the combined use of sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy, adenomatous polyps were detected in 47 of 114 individuals (41%). A total of 88 adenomas was found. Seventeen patients had isolated neoplasms in proximal colonic segments in the absence of distal adenomas. These patients represented 15% of screened subjects (17 of 114) and 20% of individuals who lacked adenomas on sigmoidoscopy (17 of 84). The majority of proximal neoplasms were small (<1.0 cm), tubular adenomas. Flexible sigmoidoscopy may be ineffective for screening asymptomatic men for neoplasia. However, it remains to be determined if a 20% miss rate (for those with a normal sigmoidoscopic examination) is significant and whether small proximal adenomas are worth finding.
“Plasminogen steal” and clot lysis

Although initially developed to reduce the risk of bleeding, second-generation (clot-selective) thrombolytic agents have been found to induce more prompt and frequent recanalization than do nonselective, first-generation agents. To determine whether they do so in part by preserving clot-associated plasminogen, human whole blood clots formed in Chandler tubes were studied. Addition of suprapharmacologic concentrations of recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) to the media bathing mature clots led to a paradoxic impairment of clot lysis and a concomitant concentration-dependent depletion of clot-associated plasminogen (Western blot analysis). In contrast, supplementation of the plasma with plasminogen (0.27 mg/ml) led to significant conservation of both plasma and clot-associated plasminogen (p less than or equal to 0.05, n = 4), and prevented the diminution of clot lysis (p less than or equal to 0.05; n = 4). Fibrinogen degradation products did not account for the attenuation of lysis with the highest concentrations of rt-PA. In concentrations equivalent to those that were induced by the highest concentrations of rt-PA evaluated, fibrinogen degradation products potentiated rather than inhibited lysis (p less than or equal to 0.05, n = 4), probably by stimulating rt-PA activity directly. When preformed clots were incubated with plasminogen-depleted plasma plus 1,000 ng/ml rt-PA, the plasminogen content in residual clot declined (9.36 +/- 0.46 versus 12.39 +/- 0.69 ng/mg clot found in nondepleted plasma; p less than or equal to 0.05; n = 6). Furthermore, clot lysis was attenuated completely.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Tomographic reconstruction of flowing gases using sparse training

Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) is an emerging technique for simultaneous sensing of temperature and concentration of gaseous media. However, simultaneous reconstruction of temperature and concentration using TDLAS measurements is a nonlinear inverse problem and unlike other forms of computed tomography (CT), it is typically not possible to take a large number of projection measurements; so reconstructions are often computed using simplistic assumptions that limit the usability of the results. In this paper, we present a fast algorithm for model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) of TDLAS data. Our TDLAS-MBIR method uses a nonlinear forward model based on the physics of light absorption and incorporates a holistic prior model that can be learned from very sparse training data. Reconstructions performed on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) phantoms show that our proposed reconstruction algorithm is fast; works well when the number of pixels, p, far exceeds the number of measurements, M; is robust against noise; and produces good reconstructions using few training examples for the prior model.
Steric Sea Level in the Los Alamos POP Code—Non-Boussinesq Effects

ABSTRACT The recent availability of accurate global ocean surface elevation data from satellites permits intercomparison with model results, and therefore raises the question of the accuracy of the computed sea level in ocean models. Most models, even those that incorporate a free surface, make use of the Boussinesq approximation—that is, they assume an incompressible fluid and conserve volume rather than mass. This results in an error in predicting steric sea level changes. The Los Alamos POP model, a free-surface Bryan-Cox type of ocean model developed for parallel computers, is in this category. We generalize the POP (Parallel Ocean Program) model to account for non-zero dilatation (non-zero velocity divergence—the primary non-Boussinesq effect) due to a variety of causes, such as expansion due to thermal and salinity mixing, as well as compressibility. We then compute both local and global changes of the sea level due to these effects and conclude that overall global dynamic effects are entirely negli...
Thermal degradation of deoxybenzoin polymers studied by pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry

Abstract The thermal degradation behavior of novel ultra-fire-resistant polymers and copolymers containing deoxybenzoin units in the backbone was studied by pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). The polymers were synthesized by the polycondensation of 4,4′-bishydroxydeoxybenzoin (BHDB) with isophthaloyl chloride (to give polyarylates), phenylphosphonic dichloride (to give polyphosphonates), and their mixtures (to give poly(arylate- co -phosphonate) copolymers). The thermal decomposition, under nitrogen conditions, of BHDB-polyarylate was characterized by a simultaneous degradation of both the bisphenolic (deoxybenzoin) and isophthalate sub-units, whereas a three-step decomposition phenomenon was observed for the BHDB-polyphosphonate. BHDB-polymers containing phosphonate groups in the backbone did not show any phosphorus-based volatile decomposition products, whereas the corresponding bisphenol A-based polyphosphonates released volatile decomposition products comprised mainly of phosphorus-containing compounds.
Intra-die process variation aware anomaly detection in FPGAs

This work describes a new non-destructive method to determine the presence of anomalies such as Hardware Trojans in physical VLSI layer of FPGA, especially in configurable logic blocks and switch blocks. The detection that accounts for spatially correlated intra-die process variations can be achieved by isolating a suspected region where its device characteristic is inconsistent from ones in the physically nearest regions. This method does not require a golden chip to compare with a chip under test and can be performed without expensive testing equipment. In this paper, we present anomaly implementations and emulations as well as experimental results and analysis on anomaly detection from data obtained from Xili1nx Virtex-4, Virtex-5 and Virtex-6 FPGA devices.
Some future perspectives in soft- and hard- X-ray photoemission ☆

Abstract We discuss several recent developments in photoemission, with comments on their perspectives for the future. These include an adequate allowance for differential cross section effects in core- and valence-angular distributions, as well as more accurate one-step modeling of angle-resolved photoemission (ARPES); the use of higher photon energies from the soft- to hard- X-ray regime to permit probing bulk electronic structure and buried layers and interfaces; extending ARPES into the soft- and hard- X-ray regimes; tailoring the X-ray wave field through X-ray optical effects including standing waves, total reflection, and tuning through resonances; using standing-wave excitation to provide much enhanced depth sensitivity in studying solid/gas and solid/liquid interfaces; and applying photoelectron holography to time-resolved studies of molecular reactions and dissociation. Specific application examples include a magnetic semiconductor, multilayer structures of complex metal oxides, a thin water solution on a metal oxide surface, and a halo-substituted benzene molecule.
High pressure syntheses of ThB12 and HfB12

Abstract High pressure synthesis techniques were used to prepare ThB12and HfB12. These compounds have the cubic UB12-type structure with lattice parameters 7.612(1) A and 7.377(2) A respectively. The relationship between the lattice parameter for UB12-type dodecaborides and the coordination number 12 radius of the metal atom differs for lanthanide, actinide and transition metal atoms. The prediction is made that it is possible to prepare AmB12 at high pressures.