cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Methanogenic degradation kinetics of phenolic compounds in aquifer-derived microcosms

In this segment of a larger multidisciplinary study of the movement and fate of creosote derived compounds in a sand-and-gravel aquifer, we present evidence that the methanogenic degradation of the major biodegradable phenolic compounds and concomitant microbial growth in batch microcosms derived from contaminated aquifer material can be described using Monod kinetics. Substrate depletion and bacterial growth curves were fitted to the Monod equations using nonlinear regression analysis. The method of Marquardt was used for the determination of parameter values that best fit the experimental data by minimizing the residual sum of squares. The Monod kinetic constants (μ max , K s, Y, and k d) that describe phenol, 2-, 3-, and 4-methylphenol degradation and concomitant microbial growth were determined under conditions that were substantially different from those previously reported for microcosms cultured from sewage sludge. The K s values obtained in this study are approximately two orders of magnitude lower than values obtained for the anaerobic degradation of phenol in digesting sewage sludge, indicating that the aquifer microorganisms have developed enzyme systems that are adapted to low nutrient conditions. The values for k d are much less than μ max, and can be neglected in the microcosms. The extremely low Y values, approximately 3 orders of magnitude lower than for the sewage sludge derived cultures, and the very low numbers of microorganisms in the aquifer derived microcosms suggest that these organisms use some unique strategies to survive in the subsurface environment.
The association of H-2 haplotype with implantation, survival, and growth of murine embryos.

Using three congenic strains, C57BL/10Sn (H-2 b), B10.A/SnSg (H-2 a), and B10.D2/nSn (H-2 d), we sought to investigate the possible association of H-2 haplotype with the number of implants, fetal survival, and fetal weight, as well as to analyze the possible effects of hybrid vigor and maternal-fetal histoincompatibility in primigravidae mice. The results of this study indicate a significant association between genes at or near the H-2 complex and both fetal loss and fetal weight, but not the number of implants. Haplotype variation accounted for 14 percent of the variation in fetal loss and 20 percent of the variation in fetal weight. With the exception of fetal loss, there was no evidence of a maternal effect. There was also no clear evidence of hybrid vigor or histoincompatibility effects for any of the three variables studied. In summary, the data suggests that particular allelic variants at or near the H-2 complex confer some selective advantage as measured by differential fetal survival and fetal growth.
Dynamic Maskless Holographic Lithography

Maskless patterning techniques are increasingly implemented in semiconductor research and manufacturing eliminating the need for costly masks or masters. Recent application of these techniques to DNA and cell patterning demonstrates the adaptability of maskless processes. In this paper we present a new lithographic process for dynamically reconfiguring and arbitrarily positioning computer-generated patterns through the use of phase holograms. Similar to current maskless patterning methods this process can achieve pattern transfer through serially tracing an image onto a substrate. The novelty of our process, however, lies in the ability to rapidly fabricate complex micro/nanoscale structures through single-shot exposure of a substrate.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Detection of intracardiac thromboses after factor VIII inhibitor bypass activity administration by transesophageal echocardiography.

p t URGICAL TRAUMA AND the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) may result in derangements of the coagulaion system after cardiac surgery. Management includes preention with antifibrinolytics and the postoperative administraion of blood products and agents like protamine, calcium, and esmopressin. Factor VIII inhibitor bypass activity (FEIBA) as also been used as a procoagulant in the surgical patient; owever, its use has been associated with thrombotic adverse vents. A case of intracardiac thromboses, diagnosed by transsophageal echocardiography (TEE), after FEIBA administraion is reported.
Mental motor imagery indexes pain: The hand laterality task

Mental motor imagery is subserved by the same cognitive systems that underlie action. In turn, action is informed by the anticipated sensory consequences of movement, including pain. In light of these considerations, one would predict that motor imagery would provide a useful measure pain-related functional interference. We report a study in which 19 patients with chronic musculoskeletal or radiculopathic arm or shoulder pain, 24 subjects with chronic pain not involving the arm/shoulder and 41 normal controls were asked to indicate if a line drawing was a right or left hand. Previous work demonstrated that this task is performed by mental rotation of the subject's hand to match the stimulus. Relative to normal and pain control subjects, arm/shoulder pain subjects were significantly slower for stimuli that required greater amplitude rotations. For the arm/shoulder pain subjects only there was a correlation between degree of slowing and the rating of severity of pain with movement but not the non-specific pain rating. The hand laterality task may supplement the assessment of subjects with chronic arm/shoulder pain.
Relative effects of turbidity and light intensity on reactive distance and feeding of an estuarine fish

Gulf killifish Fundulus grandis were allowed to prey on daggerblade grass shrimp Palaemonetes pugio in clear water with bright light, turbid water containing bentonite clay, and clear water treatments where the light intensity was adjusted to match that in the bottom of the turbid tanks. Significantly fewer shrimp were consumed in the turbid tanks relative to the clear and shade treatments where predation rates did not differ significantly. The results suggested that the influence of suspended particles on predation rates was a consequence of light scattering and was not related to a decrease in light intensity. Reactive distances were subsequently determined for human observers viewing a small target in elongated tanks containing turbid water (7.3–60.5 NTU) under conditions of both low (8-10 μE m−2 s−1) and high illumination (153–1249 μE M−2 s−1). Reactive distance was primarily governed by turbidity while light intensity had little influence except at low turbidities. The shape of the relationship between reactive distance and turbidity for humans resembled curves reported for a variety of fish species.
SINGLE-VISIT PHOTOMETRIC AND OBSCURATIONAL COMPLETENESS

We report a method that uses "completeness" to estimate the number of extrasolar planets discovered by an observing program with a direct-imaging instrument. We develop a completeness function for Earth-like planets on "habitable" orbits for an instrument with a central field obscuration, uniform sensitivity in an annular detection zone, and limiting sensitivity that is expressed as a "delta magnitude" with respect to the star, determined by systematic effects (given adequate exposure time). We demonstrate our method of estimation by applying it to our understanding of the coronagraphic version of the Terrestrial Planet Finder (TPF-C) mission as of 2004 October. We establish an initial relationship between the size, quality, and stability of the instrument's optics and its ability to meet mission science requirements. We provide options for increasing the fidelity and versatility of the models on which our method is based, and we discuss how the method could be extended to model the TPF-C mission as a whole to verify that its design can meet the science requirements.
The effect of calcium ions on the properties of factor IX and its activated form.

Summary. The activation of bovine plasma factor IX requires activated factor XI and calcium ions, but not phospholipids. It results in an apparent reduction in molecular size or shape as shown by gel filtration on Sephadex G-200 and sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. DEAE chromatography reveals that the surface charge may be altered upon activation. In the presence of calcium ions, both the precursor and activated form of factor IX showed reduction in sizes. Calcium ions also promote the adsorption of factor IXa on a glass surface. The significance of the change of size and surface charge in the interaction of factor IX and phospholipids is discussed.
Interrelationships between thermal-, N-ethylmaleimide-, and Ca2+-calmodulin-mediated activation/inactivation of dynein ATPase activities.

Abstract Interactive effects between calmodulin activation of 30 S dynein ATPase activity and activation by heat or N -ethylmaleimide (NEM) have been studied. Addition of calmodulin during the heat treatment caused a larger increment in ATPase activity (above that caused by heating alone) than did addition of calmodulin after the heat treatment. Similar results were obtained in experiments where activation was caused by NEM treatment. For both the heat and NEM treatments, the synergistic effect of calmodulin when present during the treatment was Ca 2+ dependent although activation of ATPase activity by either treatment alone was not Ca 2+ dependent. Heating 14 S dynein inhibited its ATPase activity and reduced the effectiveness of calmodulin as an activator. The activating effect of calmodulin added after heat or NEM treatments was about the same as if the calmodulin was present during the treatment, i.e., interactive effects were minimal. Concentrations of NEM that had little effect on the ATPase activity of 14 S dynein largely eliminated the ability of calmodulin to activate its ATPase activity. Chromatography of the heat-treated 14 S dynein on calmodulin-Sepharose 4B indicated that the loss of sensitivity of 14 S dynein ATPase to calmodulin was not due to loss of ability of the dynein to bind to calmodulin. Retention of calmodulin binding ability was also shown for heat-treated 30 S dynein. These results suggest that calmodulin and heat/NEM activate solubilized 30 S dynein ATPase by separate mechanisms which may include a common process.
Demographically Adjusted Normative Standards for New Indices of Performance on the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task (PASAT)

The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task (PASAT) is a complex cognitive test sensitive to neuropsychological disorders. Its traditional Total Correct score seemingly reflects multiple cognitive abilities, including attention, working memory, and processing speed. Snyder, Aniskiewicz, and Snyder (1993) modified scoring guidelines for the PASAT to give credit only for "dyads." This method emphasizes working memory operations and has been found superior to Total Correct scores at detecting cognitive impairments in several investigations. To date, normative standards are not available for the "dyad" scoring method, thus limiting its utility in clinical and research settings. The current investigation provides demographically adjusted normative data based on a sample of 500 healthy adults of varied age, education, sex, and race (African American and Caucasian) for various indices of performance on the PASAT, including "Total Dyads" obtained across the four PASAT trials. In addition, we describe and present normative data on four other indices designed to quantify various aspects of performance on the PASAT: invalid responding, effects of varied information processing speed demands, and tendency to omit responses and to make arithmetic errors.
Broadband lumped HBT amplifiers

The authors report the realisation of wideband amplifiers using AllnAs/GaInAs transferred-substrate heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs). The first amplifier is in the f/sub /spl tau// doubler configuration with an input emitter follower while the second is a Darlington stage designed for high gain. The former had a low frequency gain of 8.2 dB and a 3 dB bandwidth of 80 GHz. While the latter had a low frequency gain of 18 dB and a bandwidth of 50 GHz.
Signal processing for a vestibular neurostimulator

An implanted vestibular neurostimulator has been developed based on commercial cochlear implant technology. It has been implanted chronically in Rhesus monkeys and the physiology of electrical stimulation of the vestibular periphery has been studied. We are currently proposing a human feasibility study of implantation of the device for the treatment of incapacitating Meniere's disease. Because no animal model of Meniere's disease exists, signal processing for such a device must be based on prior observations of human subjects who have suffered Meniere's attacks while their eye-movements could be quantified. Based on such data, and on the leading theories for the pathophysiology of a Meniere's attack, our animal data suggests that fixed amplitude, constant frequency biphasic pulse trains should be adequate to suppress the symptoms of an attack when they occur. The intensity of the stimuli and efficacy of vertigo suppression should be readily modulated either by amplitude or frequency adjustments.
Considerations when using phenomenology in leisure inquiry: Beliefs, methods, and analysis in naturalistic research

The leisure experience is a complex personal and social construction. It is multifaceted, subjective, intra- and inter-individualistic, dynamic, and value laden. One way to understand the ‘elusive’ leisure experience is to elicit a first order, ‘thick description’ (Geertz, 1973) of what leisure is from those who are living and experiencing it. The analysis component of a survey or experiment often consists of the statistical manipulation of data that are numerically symbolized. Statistical analyses are so well known that there is a generally accepted ‘short hand’ used to describe the statistics themselves and the results. In contrast, inductive analytical techniques are usually associated with observational or verbal data. These data are recorded verbatim or paraphrased as ‘notes from the field’. Naturalistic inquiries lack short hand techniques in part because findings contain meaning insofar as they appear in the participants' own words. Owing to the positivists' standards of parsimony and economy, phen...
Soil heterogeneity and the distribution of desert and steppe plant species across a desert-grassland ecotone

Abstract Bouteloua gracilis (Kunth) Lag. ex Griffiths (blue grama), Bouteloua eriopoda (Torr.) Torr. (black grama), and Larrea tridentata Coville (creosotebush) are dominant plants on the McKenzie Flats portion of the Llano de Manzano landform within Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge in central New Mexico, part of the biome ecotone from the Colorado Shortgrass Steppe to the Chihuahuan Desert. In this study, we examine the hypothesis that soil heterogeneity, determined by variation in surface soil depth, carbonate accumulation, and fine-textured fraction, controls relative dominance of the three species. The area is flat, generally
Genetic similarity of disjunct populations of the giant sea bass Stereolepis gigas

Sequence variation in nuclear and mitochondrial genes of the giant sea bass Stereolepis gigas collected from the Pacific coast and the northern Sea of Cortez was examined. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis and direct sequencing showed extremely low mtDNA sequence diversity (13 closely related haplotypes with no evidence of geographical population subdivision). The mitochondrial haplotype mismatch distribution is consistent with a population expansion following the Last Pleistocene glaciation. Differences in single nucleotide polymorphism frequencies between Pacific and Sea of Cortez populations were detected at two of four nuclear loci, which may reflect natural selection or genetic drift in populations with low effective numbers of males. Although Pacific coast and Sea of Cortez populations of giant sea bass do not exhibit the mitochondrial phylogenetic break characteristic of many species with disjunct Pacific and Gulf populations, the possibility of genetic differentiation at nuclear loci suggests that a cautious approach to broodstock selection for captive breeding and restoration programmes be exercised.
Solidification of an “amorphous” phase in rapidly solidified AlFeSi alloys☆

Abstract The focus of this work is the “amorphous” phase formation in AlFeSi alloys. Depending on the concentration of iron and silicon the phase appears either as an intercellular constituent or as a primary phase with globular morphology. Thus the “amorphous” phase acts like a normal crystalline phase. The globular morphology of the “amorphous” phase suggests the possibility of a metastable liquid miscibility gap. However, there is no thermodynamic evidence to support a positive heat of mixing for the liquid phase. Another possibility suggests crystallization of a phase structurally different from liquid, but at the same time being neither crystalline nor quasi-crystalline. A possible structural relationship between the “amorphous” phase, the cubic α-(Al, Fe, Si) phase and the quasi-crystalline phase is discussed.
Mathematic validation of a shorthand rule for calculating QTc

The shorthand rule that the QTc will be normal if the QT interval is <1/2 the RR interval was mathematically validated. The rule was found to be applicable and useful, provided the heart rate is more than approximately 70 beats/min.
Structure activity relationships of aristolochic acid analogues: Toxicity in cultured renal epithelial cells

Structure activity relationships of aristolochic acid analogues: Toxicity in cultured renal epithelial cells. Background Aristolochia species are nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. Recent studies showed that aristolochic acid (AA) could induce acute renal failure and tubular lesions in several species and available evidences demonstrate the unequivocal role of AA in so called Chinese herbs nephropathy. Methods A series of AA derivatives isolated from Aristolochia spp. were analyzed for their nephrotoxic potential using the neutral red dye exclusion assay in cultures of LLC-PK 1 cells. The structural relationships between AA I and its analogues were compared with their cytotoxic effects to predict structural determinants for AA toxicity. Further, caspase-3 assay was performed on toxic compounds to determine if caspases, the enzymes that play a critical role in apoptosis are involved in AA-induced cytotoxicity. Results AA I was found to be most toxic followed by AA II, AA VIIIa, and AA Ia in decreasing levels of toxicity. The other compounds, nitrophenanthrene carboxylic acid analogues of AA I, aristolactams, and other derivatives did not exhibit considerable toxicity. The results showed significant relationships between cytotoxicity of AA compounds and the localization of functional groups in their structure. Analogues containing hydroxyl groups diminished cytotoxicity. The demethylated analogues of AA I are markedly less active. The negative impact on cytotoxicity was found on nitroreduction of AA I. AA induced caspase activation was also observed. Conclusion These cytotoxic data suggest that the nitro and methoxy groups are critical determinants of nephrotoxicologic potency of AA.
Delayed formation of the floor plate after ablation of the avian notochord

We have examined the long-term effects of notochord ablation at chick stages 9–10 on formation of the floor plate and motor neurons. Although missing or reduced 2 days postablation, the floor plate and motor neurons were morphologically normal by 4 postoperative days. When isolated whole or ventral, but not lateral, neural plate fragments from stage 9 embryos were cultured for 4 days in collagen gels, floor plate and neural markers were observed. Our results suggest that floor plate and motor neurons can form in a delayed fashion in vivo after notochord ablation and in vitro from isolated neural plates. This suggests that either there is an early induction of floor plate by the chordamesoderm of Hensen's node, or only limited interactions between the neural plate and notochord immediately after neurulation are required for floor plate determination.
Alfuzosin to Relieve Ureteral Stent Discomfort: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Study

Purpose: We assessed the impact of alfuzosin on ureteral stent discomfort.Materials and Methods: A total of 66 patients scheduled for unilateral retrograde ureteroscopy with stent placement provided consent for the study. Patients were randomized between placebo and the study medication, and investigators and patients were blinded to the randomization scheme. To evaluate pain and urinary symptoms patients were asked to complete the Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (Stone Management Unit, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym, United Kingdom) before ureteroscopy and 3 days after the procedure to minimize the confounding impact of procedural discomfort due to surgery. Patients were also asked to maintain a use log of pain medication each day that the ureteral stent was in place. Procedure outcome and complications were recorded, as were patient study medication use and vital health information before the procedure and at the time of stent removal. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student t, c...
Experimental and Numerical Study of a Stacked Microchannel Heat Sink for Liquid Cooling of Microelectronic Devices

One of the promising liquid cooling techniques for microelectronics is attaching a microchannel heat sink to, or directly fabricating microchannels on, the inactive side of the chip. A stacked microchannel heat sink integrates many layers of microchannels and manifold layers into one stack. Compared with single-layered microchannels, stacked microchannels provide larger flow passages, so that for a fixed heat load the required pressure drop is significantly reduced. Better temperature uniformity can be achieved by arranging counterflow in adjacent microchannel layers. The dedicated manifolds help to distribute coolant uniformly to microchannels. In the present work, a stacked microchannel heat sink is fabricated using silicon micromachining techniques. Thermal performance of the stacked microchannel heat sink is characterized through experimental measurements and numerical simulations. Effects of coolant flow direction, flow rate allocation among layers, and nonuniform heating are studied. Wall temperature profiles are measured using an array of nine platinum thin-film resistive temperature detectors deposited simultaneously with thin-film platinum heaters on the backside of the stacked structure. Excellent overall cooling performance (0.09 ° C/W cm 2 ) for the stacked microchannel heat sink has been shown in the experiments. It has also been identified that over the tested flow rate range, counterflow arrangement provides better temperature uniformity, while parallel flow has the best performance in reducing the peak temperature. Conjugate heat transfer effects for stacked microchannels for different flow conditions are investigated through numerical simulations. Based on the results, some general design guidelines for stacked microchannel heat sinks are provided.
CVD of silicon carbide on structural fibers: Microstructure and composition

Structural fibers are currently being considered as reinforcements for intermetallic and ceramic materials. Some of these fibers, however, are easily degraded in a high temperature oxidative environment. Therefore, coatings are needed to protect the fibers from environmental attack. Silicon carbide (SiC) was chemically vapor deposited (CVD) on Textron's SCS6 fibers. Fiber temperatures ranging from 1350 to 1500 C were studied. Silane (SiH4) and propane (C2H8) were used for the source gases and different concentrations of these source gases were studied. Deposition rates were determined for each group of fibers at different temperatures. Less variation in deposition rates were observed for the dilute source gas experiments than the concentrated source gas experiments. A careful analysis was performed on the stoichiometry of the CVD SiC coating using electron microprobe. Microstructures for the different conditions were compared. At 1350 C, the microstructures were similar; however, at higher temperatures, the microstructure for the more concentrated source gas group were porous and columnar in comparison to the cross sections taken from the same area for the dilute source gas group.
Numerical Modeling of Solidification Process Using the Enthalpy-Porosity Technique

The enthalpy-porosity technique is used in this study for numerical modeling of solidification of water and binary mixture of ammonium chloride and water (NH4 Cl-H2 O). A two-dimensional geometry was used to simulate the solidification process in the rectangular and trapezoidal cavities. The liquid fraction is computed based on an enthalpy balance. The mushy zone is modeled as pseudo-porous medium in which the porosity decreases from 1 (liquid) to 0 (solid) as the material solidifies. The solidification with single side cooled wall as well as both cooled side walls was investigated. The frozen layer thickness, the convective flow patterns, and the temperature distribution were obtained. The results obtained in the course of the study showed that the shape of the solid region and the convection pattern in the melt region compare well with experimental data obtained by Particle Image Velocimetry technique. The enthalpy-porosity model is predicting well the flow pattern and the thickness of the frozen layer.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Inhibition of desaturation of stearic acid in livers of rats fed ethionine.

The effect of ethionine on the conversion of stearic acid to oleic acid was studied. Rats were fed essential fatty acid (EFA) deficient diet for three weeks, after which time half the animals were fed 0.25% DL-ethionine for nine additional days. Seventeen hours prior to killing, they were fed a slurry of the diet containing 18-14C-stearic acid. Liver triglycerides and phospholipids were extracted and separated and their fatty acid composition and the distribution of radioactivity between stearic and oleic acid was determined. In the tissues studied, oleic acid was maintained at control levels in ethionine-fed rats, but eicosatrienoic acid was significantly depressed. Distribution of radioactivity and specific activity of oleic acid in the triglycerides and phospholipids were significantly reduced by the analogue. In vitro studies of desaturation and chain elongation reactions, with liver microsomes, using 18-14C-stearic and 1-14C-linoleic acids as substrates, showed that ethionine depressed the synthesis of oleic acid from stearic and γ-linolenic from linoleic acid. Elongation of linoleic adie to a 20∶2 fatty acid was unaffected by ethionine. Therefore, the results showed that ethionine inhibited desaturation of stearic to oleic acid in vivo and in vitro and probably also impaired the desaturation of oleic to octadeca-6, 9-dienoic acid. Maintenance of control levels of oleic acid in the tissues of ethionine-fed, EFA deficient rats suggested the presence of synthetic pathways for oleic acid other than via desaturation of stearic acid.
Phase transformation, thermal expansion and electrical conductivity of lanthanum chromite

Abstract This paper addresses discrepancies pertaining to structural, thermal and electrical properties of lanthanum chromite. Experimental evidence is provided to support the hypothesis for poor densification in air as well as reduction in electrical conductivity in reducing atmosphere. Sintering condition for the synthesis of LaCrO 3 was optimized to 1450 °C and 10 h. Thermo-analytical (differential scanning calorimetry – DSC) and high temperature X-ray diffraction (HT-XRD) studies show that orthorhombic lanthanum chromite transforms into rhombohedral structure at ∼260 °C and cubic structure above 1000 °C. Co-existence of the structural phases and the variation in each polymorph with temperature in both air and 3%H 2 –Ar atmosphere is reported. Presence and absence of Cr-rich phase at inter-particle neck are observed in oxidizing and reducing atmospheres respectively. The linear thermal expansion co-efficient was calculated to be 10.8 ± 0.2 × 10 −6 °C −1 in the temperature range of RT–1400 °C. Electrical conductivity of lanthanum chromite was found to be 0.11 S/cm in air. A decrease in electrical conductivity (0.02 S/cm at 800 °C) of LaCrO 3 , as observed in reducing atmosphere (3%H 2 –Ar), corresponds to lattice volume change as indicated by peak shift in HT-XRD results.
Individualized music--a different approach to the restraint issue.

Rehabilitation nurses who work with geriatric patients are concerned about reliance on physical restraints, as are all nurses. Controversy exists as to the benefits and risks, as well as the ethical and legal consequences, of their use. Nurses are ambivalent about using restraints, believing that they affect patients' freedom, self-respect, and self-reliance; they also often believe that there are no appropriate alternatives. This pilot study explored the use of music as a potential alternative to using physical restraints with hospitalized patients. The research question was: Will patients have more positive behaviors, as measured by the Restraint Music Response Instrument (RMRI), while out of restraints and listening to preferred music compared with the patients not listening to music who are out of restraints while being observed? Forty medical-surgical patients participated in the study and were randomized into either the experimental group (music) or the control group (no music). The mean age of the 21 males and 19 females was 76.6 years (range 56–94). A t test for equality of means was used to determine if there were differences in the number of positive and negative behaviors in the preintervention, intervention, and postintervention phases between the two groups. There was a significant difference (p < .01) in behaviors during the intervention phase. Patients who listened to preferred music had more positive behaviors while out of restraints than patients who were out of restraints but not exposed to music.
New tables of coefficients and percentage points for the W test for normality

Recent work has made available new tables of expected values, variances, and covariances of normal order statistics to higher precision and greater accuracy than existing tables. The coefficients associated with calculation of the Shapiro-Wilk W statistic used in testing departure from normality are based upon expressions involving expected values of normal order statistics and the corresponding variance-covariance matrix. These coefficients have been calculated on the basis of the new tables for sample sizes up to 50. Percentage points of the distribution of W are evaluated via simulation using the new coefficients, and an approximation is provided. The first and half moments of W also are given.
Acute erector spinae compartment syndrome: Case report and review of diagnostic criteria

A 45-year-old white male presented to the emergency department with 6 h of back pain and dark urine. The patient was awakened from sleep with severe bilateral paraspinal pain that was worse with valsalva and forward flexion. There was no preexisting history of back pain, and no history of acute trauma. The patient elected to seek care when his pain continued to worsen despite overthe-counter pain relievers. Past medical history included erectile dysfunction and hypertension. Medications included tadalafil and amlodipine/valsartan. He reported using cocaine occasionally, with last use occurring one day prior to the onset of symptoms. After initial emergency department evaluation, orthopaedic surgery was consulted to evaluate the patient’s continuing back pain. On exam the patient was in mild distress secondary to pain. He reported a crescendo type pain pattern that was worse with direct palpation of the paraspinous musculature and forward flexion. It was noted that the erector spinae compartments were firm and minimally compressible compared to adjacent muscle compartments. Motor sensory examination demonstrated active contraction of paraspinal musculature, which accentuated his pain and there was documented decreased sensation to light touch to posterior dermatomes of the eighth thoracic to fourth lumbar nerves. Laboratory studies are summarised in Table 1, and revealed an elevated serum creatinine, creatine kinase, ALT, and AST values. Urinalysis revealed 3+ blood, 0 red blood cells and myoglobinuria. Urine toxicology screen was positive for cocaine. Imaging evaluation with anterior–posterior (AP)/lateral lumbar spine radiographs, abdominopelvic computed tomography, and renal ultrasonography was negative with the exception of prominence of the lumbar paraspinal musculature. Accepted 11 November 2013
Photon correlation in the nanosecond range and its applications to the evaluation of RCA C31034 photomultiplier tubes

Photon correlation in the nanosecond delay time range by arrival times of photoelectric pulses can be achieved using a computer‐controlled digital counter. We have demonstrated the dynamic range of such a photon‐counting system by determining the linewidths of light scattered from concentration fluctuations in a noncritical binary fluid mixture and in an aqueous suspension of polystyrene latex spheres. The system can be used to measure linewidths from about a few hundred hertz to the tens of megahertz. The RCA C31034 and C31034‐A photomultiplier tubes with gallium arsenide photocathodes have been assessed for application in experiments related to photon‐correlation spectroscopy. Pulse height distributions, overall quantum‐counting efficiencies, time‐dependent statistical correlations, and dark count properties have been investigated. Our results show that both tubes are superior to the previously tested photomultiplier tubes in terms of overall quantum‐counting efficiencies, after‐pulsing characteristics, and dead time. They match with existing fast amplifiers and discriminators which permit photon‐correlation measurements in the nanosecond delay time range.
Increase in mastery levels using a computer-based tutorial/simulation in experimental psychology

A computer program was written in PCPilot to teach a unit in basic concepts in experimental design. The graphics-based program includes both tutorials and simulations. The students who used the program had significantly higher test scores than those in another class who did not; they reported that they enjoyed learning to use the program.
Molecular analysis of allelic polymorphism at the AAT2 locus of alfalfa

Aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) plays a key enzymatic role in the assimilation of symbiotically fixed nitrogen in legume root nodules. In alfalfa, two distinct genetic loci encode dimeric AAT enzymes: AAT1, which predominates in roots, and AAT2, which is expressed at high levels in nodules. Three allozymes of AAT2 (AAT2a, −2b and −2c), differing in net charge, result from the expression of two alleles, AAT2A and AAT2C, at this locus. Utilizing antiserum to alfalfa AAT2, we have previously isolated from an expression library one AAT2 cDNA clone. This clone was used as a hybridization probe to screen cDNA libraries for additional AAT2 cDNAs. Four different clones were obtained, two each that encode the AAT2a and AAT2c enyzme subunits. These two sets of cDNAs encode polypeptides that differ in net charge depending upon the amino acid at position 296 (valine or glutamic acid). Within each set of alleles, the two members differ from each other by the presence or absence of a 30 by (ten amino acid) sequence. The presence or absence of this ten amino acid sequence has no effect on the size or charge of the mature AAT2 protein because it is located within the region encoding the protein's transit peptide, which is proteolytically removed upon transport into plastids. The data suggest that a deletion event has occurred independently in two AAT2 progenitor alleles, resulting in the four allelic cDNA variants observed. The deletion of this ten amino acid sequence does not appear to impair the normal maturation of the enzyme.
Inflammatory markers and progression of subclinical atherosclerosis in healthy postmenopausal women (from the Estrogen in the Prevention of Atherosclerosis Trial).

The objective of this study was to determine whether high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and serum soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) correlate with progression of subclinical atherosclerosis. Secondarily, the long-term effect of oral estradiol on hs-CRP and sICAM-1 were determined. Data were analyzed from 180 healthy postmenopausal women aged 45 to 80 years randomly assigned to either unopposed micronized 17β-estradiol 1 mg/day or placebo in the Estrogen in the Prevention of Atherosclerosis Trial (EPAT). Carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT), hs-CRP, and sICAM-1 were measured at baseline and every 6 months thereafter for 2 years. Unopposed 17β-estradiol significantly increased hs-CRP (p = 0.01) and decreased sICAM-1 compared with placebo (p = 0.04). Changes in hs-CRP and sICAM-1 did not correlate with changes in carotid artery intima-media thickness. In conclusion, although unopposed 17β-estradiol significantly altered hs-CRP and sICAM-1, neither marker was associated with progression of subclinical atherosclerosis.
Heteroclinics for a reversible Hamiltonian system

This paper uses an elementary variational argument to establish the existence of solutions heteroclinic to a pair of periodic orbits for a class of Hamiltonian systems including Hamiltonians of multiple pendulum type.
A high level computational study of the CH4/CF4 dimer: how does it compare with the CH4/CH4 and CF4/CF4 dimers?

The interaction within the methane–methane (CH4/CH4), perfluoromethane–perfluoromethane (CF4/CF4) methane–perfluoromethane dimers (CH4/CF4) was calculated using the Hartree–Fock (HF) method, multiple orders of Moller–Plesset perturbation theory [MP2, MP3, MP4(DQ), MP4(SDQ), MP4(SDTQ)], and coupled cluster theory [CCSD, CCSD(T)], as well as the PW91, B97D, and M06-2X density functional theory (DFT) functionals. The basis sets of Dunning and coworkers (aug-cc-pVxZ, x = D, T, Q), Krishnan and coworkers [6-311++G(d,p), 6-311++G(2d,2p)], and Tsuzuki and coworkers [aug(df, pd)-6-311G(d,p)] were used. Basis set superposition error (BSSE) was corrected via the counterpoise method in all cases. Interaction energies obtained with the MP2 method do not fit with the experimental finding that the methane–perfluoromethane system phase separates at 94.5 K. It was not until the CCSD(T) method was considered that the interaction energy of the methane–perfluoromethane dimer (−0.69 kcal mol−1) was found to be intermediate b...
Reconstruction of the ligated external carotid artery for embolization of cervicofacial arteriovenous malformations

Abstract Purpose: Until recently, the accepted management of life-threatening complications of unresectable cervicofacial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) has been ligation of the major feeding vessels, usually the branches or the main trunk of the external carotid artery. Rapid enlargement of collateral vessels around the ligature is usually associated with an early return of symptoms. Percutaneous transcatheter embolization of the nidus of the arteriovenous malformation is now the preferred treatment for symptomatic AVMs that cannot be excised. Previous ligation of the main feeding vessels prevents catheter access and embolization therapy of the lesion. The purpose of this report is to describe our experience with the treatment of patients with symptomatic unresectable cervicofacial AVMs and previous external carotid artery ligation. Methods: Six patients with symptoms from cervicofacial arteriovenous malformations required surgical reconstruction of their previously ligated external carotid artery with the anticipation of catheter embolization therapy to the branch vessels feeding the malformation. Saphenous vein was used in five reconstruction; a polytetrafluoroethylene graft was used in one. Results: After successful arterial reconstruction, massive swelling of the tongue and perioral tissue developed in two patients, which necessitated tracheostomy in one patient; and embolization therapy before extubation could be safely performed in the other patient. In all, four patients underwent successful embolization therapy. One refused subsequent treatment. In one patient with severe epistaxis, external carotid artery revascularization led to the healing of the nasal ulcers without need for embolization therapy. Conclusions: For patients with previous ligations of the external carotid artery and symptomatic AVMs, revascularization of the external carotid artery is an important step in treatment. The surgery must be carefully coordinated with the interventional radiologist for possible emergency postoperative embolization therapy. External carotid artery ligation only complicates the treatment of patients with cervicofacial AVMs, and should no longer be used in the treatment of these individuals. (J VASC SURG 1993;17:491-8.)
Partial repression of human γ‐globin genes by LCR element HS3 when linked to β‐globin genes and LCR element HS2 in MEL cells

Clues for overcoming fetal (gamma-) globin gene repression in adult human erythroid cells may come from understanding why repression of isolated gamma-globin genes has not previously been achieved in the adult erythroid environment of mouse erythroleukemia cells (MEL). Repression of human gamma-globin genes has been demonstrated in MEL cells when transferred as part of the entire beta-globin gene cluster packaged in chromatin. Major differences in these approaches are prior packaging into chromatin and the presence of additional sequences, notably from the locus control region (LCR). In this report we focus on the contribution to gamma-globin gene repression that multiple elements of the LCR may have. We first show preferential activation of beta-globin genes over gamma-globin genes in MEL cells when linked to each other and to LCR sequences containing the core elements of DNase I hypersensitive sites 4, 3, and 2. Removal of the HS4 element had no effect, however, removal of the 225 bp HS3 core element resulted in a five-fold increase in gamma-globin gene expression. The enhancer 3' to the A gamma-globin gene also had no apparent effect on gamma-globin gene expression. These results provide first evidence of gamma-globin gene repression involving the core region of HS3 in the presence of the core region of HS2 and a beta-globin gene. A mechanism for repression involving sequestration of the gamma-promoter away from the strong enhancer activity of HS2 is proposed.
Different responses of lymphoid cells from tumor-bearing as compared to tumor-immunized mice when sensitized to tumor specific antigens in vitro

Abstract Lymphoid cells from spleen and lymph nodes of BALB/c mice were sensitized in vitro by cocultivation with cells from syngeneic methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas. The donor mice were either immunized in vivo by tumor transplantation followed by excision ("tumor-excised mice") or were carrying a progressively growing tumor ("tumor-bearing mice"). The cell-mediated immune response of the sensitized cells was compared by a 36-hr microcytotoxicity assay. Lymphoid cells from tumor-excised mice were cytotoxic when tested after 3 days and also after 6 days of sensitization in vitro. Lymphoid cells from tumor-bearing mice were cytotoxic to cells of the tumor borne when tested after 3 days in culture. However, the cytotoxic effect was lost after 6 days of contact with the sensitizing tumor in vitro. Preliminary data suggest that the cultured lymphoid cells of tumor-bearing mice which have lost cytotoxicity, can suppress the reactivity of in vitro sensitized lymphoid cells from tumor-excised mice.
Bayesian Decision Models for System Engineering

This paper shows how modern developments in statistical decision theory can be applied to a typical systems engineering problem. The problem is how to design an experiment to evaluate a reliability parameter for a device and then make a decision about whether to accept a contract for the development and maintenance of a system of these devices. We introduce the concept of subjective probability distribution to permit encoding prior knowledge about the uncertainty in the process. The expected value of clairvoyance is computed as an upper bound to the value of any experimental program. The structure of decision trees serves as a means for establishing the optimum size and type of experimentation and for acting on the basis of experimental results. The subjective probability approach to decision processes allows us to consider and solve problems that previously we could not even formulate.
Surgical intervention for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Abstract Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is for the most part a functional problem involving the esophageal lower sphincter resulting in reflux of gastric acid. Refluxed acid may subsequently cause classic symptoms such as heartburn, but additionally atypical symptoms of pneumonia and asthma. Several modalities can be used to characterize the disease, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy, pHmetry, and manometry. Specific indications for the surgical treatment of GERD have been recommended and surgery has been shown to reduce the need for postoperative medical treatment in most of the cases. An analysis of surgery vs medicine reveals a cost-equivalent point at roughly 10 years. Although fundoplication remains the goal standard for the surgical treatment of GERD, multiple variations exist, including Nissen, Toupet, and Dor, each incurring its own respective benefits and associated risks. Alternatives to fundoplication, such as the magnetic bead antireflux systems, have also been developed and are gaining favor throughout the world in large part owing to their ease of placement and favorable clinical results thus far. Nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults at some point in their lifetimes are affected by the common problem of GERD. The disease not only adversely affects an individual׳s well-being but also progression of GERD may eventually result in Barrett׳s esophagus and if left untreated, esophageal cancer. Modern antireflux surgeries offer a highly cost-effective solution to GERD with minimal morbidity when compared with lifelong antisecretory therapy.
Uncoupling and Inward Migration of Subsarcolemmal Mitochondria in Rat Heart during Early Diabetes

Myocyte loss is an established feature in hearts of both individuals with diabetes mellitus and in several animal models of the disease. Studies attribute this to an increase in apoptosis resulting from elevation in cytoplasmic cytochrome c and activation of caspase-3. To date, spatial, structural and functional changes subsarcolemmal mitochondria (SSM), which protect myocytes from circulating insults, undergo during early diabetes remains poorly characterized. Using the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model we show that after 5-6 weeks of diabetes, SSM disaggregate and migrate inwards. Diabetic SSM (dSSM) also exhibited increased biogenesis, were smaller with more compact cristae, possessed higher citrate synthase activity, produced more reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased interaction with sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), and took up more Ca2+ . Atomic force microscopy also revealed that forty percent of dSSM also possessed a circumferential “ribbon-like” structure and 12% of these were leaky. dSSM also contained 65% less superoxide dismutase-I and 66% less connexin 43, a protein that regulates the activity of mitochondria K ATP channels and opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Insulin-treatment blunted these changes. The inward migration of SSM during diabetes is likely to leave myocytes vulnerable to plasmalemmal Ca2+ spikes resulting from the barrage of circulating agonists. Persistent increases in ROS production and lower connexin 43 content are also likely to trigger leaking of dSSM and elevate cytoplasmic levels of cytochrome c and apoptosis-inducing factors. Thus, we propose that compensatory changes to ensure adequate ATP production and maintenance of ionic homeostasis during diabetes switches SSM from protecting myocytes to inducing their demise. (This work was funded in part by grants from NIH to WGM and KRB and AHA to MCZ).