cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Surgical Ophthalmologic Examination

Maxillofacial trauma involving injury to the eye and periorbital structures is not uncommon. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are frequently called on to assess and operate in and around the orbit; it is thus critical to be proficient around the eye because surgical interventions and even physical examinations can cause injury and loss of vision. This article reviews the systematic and accurate assessment of the eye and adnexal structures in a manner appropriate for the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, with a focus on proper examination technique and a high sensitivity for potentially critical abnormalities. A practical approach to performing and recording a detailed ophthalmologic examination is presented, including the assessment of vision, pupillary function, intraocular pressure, and ocular motility, as well as the slit lamp and direct fundoscopic examinations.
Formation of heteromeric gap junction channels by connexins 40 and 43 in vascular smooth muscle cells

Connexin (Cx) 43 and Cx40 are coexpressed in several tissues, including cardiac atrial and ventricular myocytes and vascular smooth muscle. It has been shown that these Cxs form homomeric/homotypic channels with distinct permeability and gating properties but do not form functional homomeric/heterotypic channels. If these Cxs were to form heteromeric channels, they could display functional properties not well predicted by the homomeric forms. We assessed this possibility by using A7r5 cells, an embryonic rat aortic smooth muscle cell line that coexpresses Cxs 43 and 40. Connexons (hemichannels), which were isolated from these cells by density centrifugation and immunoprecipitated with antibody against Cx43, contained Cx40. Similarly, antibody against Cx40 coimmunoprecipitated Cx43 from the same connexon fraction but only Cx40 from Cx (monomer) fractions. These results indicate that heteromeric connexons are formed by these Cxs in the A7r5 cells. The gap junction channels formed in the A7r5 cells display many unitary conductances distinct from homomeric/homotypic Cx43 or Cx40 channels. Voltage-dependent gating parameters in the A7r5 cells are also quite variable compared with cells that express only Cx40 or Cx43. These data indicate that Cxs 43 and 40 form functional heteromeric channels with unique gating and conductance properties.
Nerve regeneration in diabetic rats

This study evaluated the capacity of diabetic rats to recover the ability to walk after nerve repair or nerve graft of the posterior tibial nerve at thigh level. Functional recovery of the posterior tibial nerve was evaluated by walking track analysis during regeneration in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Surgical procedures were performed 8 weeks after induction of diabetes. The nerve repair was epineurial. The nerve graft was a 1.5 cm segment orthotopically replaced. There was no significant difference in functional recovery between normal and diabetic rats for both the nerve repair and nerve graft groups at 6, 12, and 24 weeks after nerve reconstruction. It is concluded that the presence of diabetes is not a contraindication for nerve reconstruction.
The optical conductivity of free carriers in GaAs

Abstract The optical conductivity of free electrons in polar semiconducting compounds has recently been calculated by use of a generalized Boltzmann equation derived from the equation of motion of the quantum density matrix. This reduces to the quasi-classical Boltzmann transport equation in the low frequency limit: the optical conductivity thus obtained spans a spectral range from around 30cm −1 to 1.2 × 10 4 cm −1 in GaAs. In this paper, the optical conductivity is calculated for GaAs as a function of carrier concentration in terms of a frequency dependent relaxation time which reduces to the usual relaxation time in the limit of low frequencies and an elastic scattering mechanism. The low frequency limit of the relaxation time is used to estimate the mobility as a function of carrier concentration. The frequency dependent relaxation time is given for GaAs at 298 K over the spectral region from 45 cm −1 to 2.3 × 10 3 cm −1 for carrier concentrations from 3.4 × 10 15 cm −3 to 8.7 × 10 18 cm −3 .
Inhibition of viral hemagglutination by aggregated orosomucoid.

Abstract The aggregation of orosomucoid by heating at 80 °, and its resultant capacity to inhibit viral hemagglutination by PR8 influenza virus has been studied. Heating orosomucoid in unbuffered saline resulted in a polydisperse aggregate. Fractionation of such preparations on Sephadex G-200 resulted in a separation into three components. The capacity to inhibit viral hemagglutination was associated only with protein eluting with the void volume on this grade of Sephadex. Aggregation by heating was found to be most pronounced at pH values close to 3.8, when the aggregate appeared essentially monodisperse in the ultracentrifuge with a sedimentation constant S 20, w = 30.1 S . The product formed was a potent inhibitor of viral hemagglutination, and 6.0 × 10 -3 μg inhibited 4HA units of PR8 indicator virus. No aggregation of orosomucoid occurred on heating at neutral or slightly basic pH. and little aggregation occurred below pH 2.6. Treatment of heat-aggregated orosomucoid with 8 m urea caused disaggregation of the high molecular weight material and a loss of its inhibitor capacity. The inhibitory activity of the aggregate was destroyed by treatment with neuraminidase or sodium periodate.
Evaluation of the degradation of steels of steam pipelines according to their structural, mechanical, and electrochemical characteristics

It is shown that, due to the presence of nonuniform stress-strain state of the metal in different zones (stretched, neutral, and compressed) of the bends of steam pipelines made of 12Kh1MF and 15Kh1M1F steels, the processes of structural transformations and the development of defects under the in-service conditions run with different intensities. It is demonstrated that the standard mechanical characteristics, specified by the existing specifications exhibit a weak sensitivity (become 1.03–1.24 times lower) to microstructural transformations and the accumulation of defects under the conditions of creep for these types of steel. The phase composition and microstructure of steels of steam pipelines strongly affect their electrochemical behavior and, in particular, the rate of repassivation of the freshly formed surface V r . As the degree of degradation of the pearlite component of 15Kh1M1F steel increases from 3 to 5, and the level of its microscopic damage increases from 2 to 3, the value of V r becomes more than twice lower. For the same degree of degradation of the pearlite component of 12Kh1MF steel and the increase in the level of its microscopic damage from 2 to 5, the value of V r becomes almost four times lower.
Engineering analyses of the link between occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorders

The roles of occlusion in various aspects of clinical dentistry have been the subjects of long-standing debates. The purposes of this study were to examine the fundamental engineering-based relationships between occlusion, a clinical principle of occlusion, the forces experienced by the temporomandibular joint and temporomandibular joint disorders. The governing equations of static equilibrium, based on Newton’s laws, were applied to the mandible to compute the forces on the temporomandibular joint and to relate those forces to the alignment of occlusal forces with the long axes of teeth, the principle of occlusion in question. Calculations were performed for 48 combinations of 4 teeth (maxillary and mandibular incisors and molars) with 3 angulations of each and 4 prescribed sets of muscle forces. The analyses indicate that (1) anatomic dimensions are inherent variables in the equations of equilibrium and (2) the 48 combinations of teeth and muscle forces yielded forces on the joint with an approximately 23:1 range in magnitudes and directions that spanned the entire 360°. Because mandibular dimensions in the equations of equilibrium translate directly into factors of occlusion (e.g., cusp angulation, vertical dimension of occlusion, occlusal plane height and anterior–posterior occlusal contact location) it is concluded that occlusion is a determinant of joint force and hence, it is fundamentally involved in temporomandibular joint disorders. Flawed contemporary principles of occlusion have made it impossible to prove or disprove a link between occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorders.
Intensity-modulated radiotherapy: Is xerostomia still prevalent?

Conformal radiation with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is a technique that potentially can minimize the dose to salivary glands and thereby decrease the incidence of xerostomia. Precise target determination and delineation is most important when using salivary gland-sparing techniques of IMRT. Reduction of xerostomia can be achieved by sparing the salivary glands on the uninvolved oral cavity and keeping the mean parotid gland dose of less than 26 to 30 Gy as a planning criterion if the treatment of disease is not compromised and parotid function preservation is desired.
Which linear-fractional composition operators are essentially normal?☆

Abstract We characterize the essentially normal composition operators induced on the Hardy space H2 by linear-fractional maps; they are either compact, normal, or (the nontrivial case) induced by parabolic nonautomorphisms. These parabolic maps induce the first known examples of nontrivially essentially normal composition operators. In addition, we characterize those linear-fractionally induced composition operators on H2 that are essentially self-adjoint, and present a number of results for composition operators induced by maps that are not linear-fractional.
Sport injury profiles, training and rehabilitation issues in American sports

The injury profiles and possibilities for the sport-specific injuries associated with the major American youth sports have been reviewed in this article. Guideline concepts for physicans, athletes, and their families are noted. Weight-training general concepts are suggested for the younger athlete. Strong consideration should be given to include cheerleading as a sport to promote safety and reduce cheerleading-related injuries. A special appendix section updates current information on the popular sport of roller-blading.
Cancer prevention through health promotion: Defining the role of physicians in public health

In recent years a major focus in the delivery of cancer prevention services has been on the actions of physicians in ambulatory care practice. Whereas delivery of these services has increased markedly, it is likely that physician actions overall are not producing expected measurable benefits to whole populations. The level and quality of prevention services will be increased through greater local consensus regarding cancer prevention goals, better organization to provide these services more efficiently, and improved health education in clinics. But the greatest challenge is to increase access for all Americans to these services. Access to health services is not only a medical problem. Social problems of unemployment, poverty, and limited education significantly influence access to services and good health in poorly understood ways. While encouraging direct approaches to addressing social problems in the medical community, the agenda for the future in cancer prevention must be concerned with facilitating a public health community responsibility attitude among physicians and with fostering development of hospital/community/physician partnerships in which community organizations have significant ownership. Overall public health indices in cancer can improve only with greater attention to access and the broad societal issues of preventive medicine.
Panic-fear in asthma--state-trait relationship and rehospitalization.

Abstract Both the MMPI Panic-Fear scale (personality trait) and the ASC Panic-Fear symptom category (situational, state response to breathing difficulties) have shown important relationships to various medical outcome measures in chronic asthma. This paper furthers previous findings by investigating Panic-Fear state-trait relationships in terms of rehospitalization of asthmatics following intensive long-term treatment. Results indicate that the two measures of Panic-Fear interact in predicting important differences in rehospitalization rates.
Strain transfer between a CPC coated strain gauge and cortical bone during bending.

The finite element method was used to simulate strain transfer from bone to a calcium phosphate ceramic (CPC) coated strain gauge. The model was constructed using gross morphometric and histological measurements obtained from previous experimental studies. Material properties were assigned based on experiments and information from the literature. Boundary conditions simulated experimental cantilever loading of rat femora. The model was validated using analytical solutions based on the theory of elasticity as well as direct comparison to experimental data obtained in a separate study. The interface between the bone and strain gauge sensing surface consisted of layers of polysulfone, polysulfone/CPC, and CPC/ bone. Parameter studies examined the effect of interface thickness and modulus, gauge geometry, partial gauge debonding, and waterproofing on the strain transfer from the bone to the gauge sensing element. Results demonstrated that interface thickness and modulus have a significant effect on strain transfer. Optimal strain transfer was achieved for an interface modulus of approximately 2 GPa. Strain transfer decreased consistently with increasing interface thickness. Debonding along the lateral edges of the gauge had little effect, while debonding proximal and distal to the sensing element decreased strain transfer. A waterproofing layer decreased strain transfer, and this effect was more pronounced as the modulus or thickness of the layer increased. Based on these simulations, specific recommendations were made to optimize strain transfer between bone and CPC coated gauges for experimental studies.
Effective registration and visualization of fluorescent neural images

Determining the neural connectivity of brain is an essential problem in neuroscience and the fluorescent imaging technique is a very useful to study this problem. In this technique, a real brain (typically of rat) is injected with a fluorescent dye and then sectioned into thin slices. Each slice is then exposed to illumination and a high-resolution image is captured. The areas in a slice that are impacted by the dye generate strong brightness due to fluorescence, and these regions reveal useful information on the neural connectivity. However, it is challenging to automatically register the image series. In this paper, we propose effective methods for the registration of fluorescent neural images. Our approach is based on the edge features of images. First, we use an effective method for edge detection. Then we adopt multi-level pattern recognition using clustering algorithms with the Mahalanobis distance criteria to isolate individual features. Finally, we adopt an elastic registration scheme using the thin-plate spline algorithm to solve the multivariate interpolation problem. Once all images are registered, we apply an elliptic weighted average (EWA) splatting technique for volume visualization. Our rendered results clearly display the 3D structures of the neural connectivity.
Atomistic simulation study of the interactions of SiH3 radicals with silicon surfaces

SiH3 radicals created by electron impact dissociation of SiH4 in reactive gas discharges are widely believed to be the dominant precursor for plasma deposition of amorphous and nanocrystalline silicon thin films. In this article, we present a systematic computational analysis of the interactions of SiH3 radicals with a variety of crystalline and amorphous silicon surfaces through atomistic simulations. The hydrogen coverage of the surface and, hence, the availability of surface dangling bonds has the strongest influence on the radical–surface reaction mechanisms and the corresponding reaction probabilities. The SiH3 radical reacts with unit probability on the pristine Si(001)-(2×1) surface which has one dangling bond per Si atom; upon reaction, the Si atom of the radical forms strong Si–Si bonds with either one or two surface Si atoms. On the H-terminated Si(001)-(2×1) surface, the radical is much less reactive; the SiH3 radical was reflected back into the gas phase in all but two of the 16 simulations of...
Water modeled signal removal and data quantification in localized MR spectroscopy using a time-scale postacquistion method.

Abstract We have previously shown the continuous wavelet transform (CWT), a signal-processing tool, which is based upon an iterative algorithm using a lorentzian signal model, to be useful as a postacquisition water suppression technique. To further exploit this tool we show its usefulness in accurately quantifying the signal metabolites after water removal. However, due to the static field inhomogeneities, eddy currents, and “radiation damping,” the water signal and the metabolites may no longer have a lorentzian lineshape. Therefore, another signal model must be used. As the CWT is a flexible method, we have developed a new algorithm using a gaussian model and found that it fits the signal components, especially the water resonance, better than the lorentzian model in most cases. A new framework, which uses the two models, is proposed. The framework iteratively extracts each resonance, starting by the water peak, from the raw signal and adjusts its envelope to both the lorentzian and the gaussian models. The model giving the best fit is selected. As a consequence, the small signals originating from metabolites when selecting, removing, and quantifying the dominant water resonance from the raw time domain signal are preserved and an accurate estimation of their concentrations is obtained. This is demonstrated by analyzing (1H) magnetic resonance spectroscopy unsuppressed water data collected from a phantom with known concentrations at two different field strengths and data collected from normal volunteers using two different localization methods.
Orofacial cleft malformations: associations with maternal and infant characteristics in Washington State.

BACKGROUND To characterize the prevalence of orofacial cleft malformations and investigate variations in prevalence according to maternal and infant characteristics, we analyzed a cohort of 298,138 live births delivered between 1987 and 1990 to residents of Washington State. METHODS Infants with cleft defects were identified using a statewide, population-based birth defects registry. Information on infant and maternal characteristics was obtained from Washington State birth certificates. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to measure the association between potential risk factors and orofacial clefts. Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL±CP) and cleft palate (CP) were analyzed separately, depending on the presence or absence of other defects. RESULTS We identified 608 infants with cleft defects. The prevalences of isolated and non-isolated CL±CP were 0.87 and 0.30 per 1,000 live births, respectively. The prevalences of isolated and non-isolated CP were 0.34 and 0.54 per 1,000 live births, respectively. Compared with mothers aged 25-29 years, mothers aged < 20 years were twice as likely to have an infant with isolated CL±CP (RR=2.0; 95% CI 1.3, 2.9). Compared to white mothers, black mothers were more likely to have an infant with non-isolated CL±CP (RR=2.8; 95% CI 1.2, 6.6). CONCLUSIONS The prevalences of orofacial clefts in Washington State in 1987-90 were similar to those of other states. This study is among the first to report a greater relative risk for isolated CL±CP among the infants of mothers < 20 years compared to older mothers. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 67:637–642, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The effects of turbulence on nanoparticle growth in turbulent reacting jets

The effects of turbulence on nanoparticle growth in turbulent reacting flows are studied via a priori analysis of direct numerical simulation data. The formation and growth of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in incompressible planar jets are simulated via gas-phase hydrolysis of titanium tetrachloride. The particle field is captured by utilizing a nodal approach which accounts for nucleation,condensation, and Brownian coagulation. Simulations are performed at a single Reynolds number and two different precursor concentration levels. Instantaneous, filtered, and averaged data are presented to convey the nature of turbulent or unresolved contributions to the growth of nanoparticles. The effects of turbulence on particle dynamics, in the context of both Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulation and large-eddy simulation, are assessed by comparing the exact, turbulent, and subgrid-scale growth rates. The results show that large particles are produced in the regions away from the jet core, and an increase in the precursor concentration level increases the particle mean diameter. Particles grow faster when the precursor concentration is increased. It is further observed that the growth rate of the particles is higher inside the eddies and it increases as the jet grows. Additionally, the results show that the unresolved small-scale fluctuations can both augment and inhibit particle growth. However the predominant effect is to reduce particle growth. This tendency is increased (in magnitude) as the precursor concentration level is increased.
The detection of intact double-stranded DNA by MALDI

DNA fragments have been analyzed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) and electrospray mass spectrometry. In many cases, only the single-stranded oligonucleotides have been detected. Recently, spectra of intact double-stranded DNA have been obtained in both electrospray and massive cluster impact ionization. We show here the first MALDI spectra of intact double-stranded DNA (EcoR1 adaptor 12/16) that is clearly not due to nonspecific dimer formation. 6-Aza-2-thiothymine was used as the matrix in the presence of ammonium citrate. Via the same procedure but with other matrices commonly employed for oligonucleotide analysis, the intact DNA duplex was not detected. No sign of the homodimer of either of the single strands is observed. Although the spectrum also shows peaks attributable to each of the single strands, these are demonstrated to arise from the DNA solution and not the sample preparation or desorption process.
Endocrine disrupter--estradiol--in Chesapeake Bay tributaries.

Abstract Exogenous chemicals that interfere with natural hormonal functions are considered endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Estradiol (17β-estradiol or E2) is the most potent of all xenoestrogens. Induction of vitellogenin (VTG) production in male fish occurs at E2 concentrations as low as 1 ng l −1 . E2 reaches aquatic systems mainly through sewage and animal waste disposal. Surface water samples from ponds, rivers (Wicomico, Manokin and Pocomoke), sewage treatment plants (STPs), and coastal bays (Assawoman, Monie, Chincoteague, and Tangier Sound – Chesapeake Bay) on the Eastern Shore of Maryland were analyzed for E2 using enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay (ELISA). E2 concentrations in river waters varied between 1.9 and 6.0 ng l −1 . Highest E2 concentrations in river waters were observed immediately downstream of STPs. E2 concentrations in all the coastal bays tested were 2.3–3.2 ng l −1 .
Purification of cytochrome c oxidase from corn root mitochondria by hydrophobic interaction chromatography

Abstract Cytochrome c oxidase (COX) was isolated for the first time from corn root mitochondrial extracts by high-performance hydrophobic interaction chromatography with a 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.2), containing 0.01% Tween 20. A 91% recovery of the total enzyme activity was achieved, along with a twelve-fold increase in specific activity. COX activity recovered from the column decreased rapidly with the age of samples. However, most activity was restored on the addition of phospholipid or non-ionic detergent. The crude oxidase was also fractionated with saturated ammonium sulfate in the presence of various detergents. Ionic and non-ionic detergents had variable effects on the release of the enzyme from corn root membrane as well as on its fractionation with ammonium sulfate.
NEW REFRACTORY COMPOSITIONS RESISTANT TO MOLTEN ROCK PHOSPHATE

The Tennessee Valley Authority has carried out small-scale and large-scale studies during the past five years, directed toward the development of refractories more resistant to corrosion by molten rock phosphate than the present commercial types. Small-scale tests were made on refractories containing varying proportions of zirconium silicate and oxides of aluminum, beryllium, calcium, cerium, chromium, magnesium, thorium, and zirconium. Promising compositions were then tested by fabrication into standard 13l½-in. and 9-in. brick and by determining their resistance to corrosion by molten rock phosphate, basic open-hearth slag, and electric phosphate-smelting furnace slag. The most promising of the compositions tested were (1) Cr2O3 67%, CaO 30%, and Al2O3 3% and (2) ZrO2 33.5%, Cr2O3 33.5%, CaO 30%, and Al2O3 3%. A 25-kw. Detroit rocking furnace was lined successively with brick of these two compositions, as well as a commercial superduty firebrick and a commercial unburned magnesite brick, and each lining was tested against molten rock phosphate until failure occurred. The tests show that the two new types of refractories are superior to the commercial refractories and that they may have promising possibilities for use where basic refractories are now extensively used.
Subject-Matter Content: How Does It Assist the Interactional and Linguistic Needs of Classroom Language Learners?

This study focused on the role of subject-matter content in second language (L2) learning. It sought to identify ways in which teachers modified classroom interaction about subject-matter content in order to assist the input, feedback, and production needs of L2 learners, and to promote their attention to developmentally difficult relationships of L2 form and meaning that they had not fully acquired. Data were collected from 6 preacademic English L2 classes whose content consisted of thematic units on film and literature. Each class was composed of 10–15 high intermediate English L2 students and their teachers. Analysis of the data focused on teacher-led discussions, because these were the predominant mode of interaction in each of the classes, and on form-meaning relationships encoded in noun and verb forms for purposes such as reference, retelling, argument, and speculation regarding film and literary content. Results of the study revealed numerous contexts in which the discussion interaction might have been modified for the kinds of input, feedback, or production that could draw students’ attention to developmentally difficult form-meaning relationships. However, there were relatively few instances in which this actually occurred. Instead, the teachers and students tended to exchange multiutterance texts, the comprehensibility of which provided little basis for modified interaction and attention to form and meaning.
Stress fracture of the tibia: An unusual complication of reconstructive surgery of the mandible

The oral and maxillofacial surgeon is frequently involved in reconstructive surgery of the maxillofacial region for congenital dentofacial anomalies, trauma, and oral cavity tumors. In such treatments, autografting with a vascularized fibula has improved the ability to reconstruct continuation defects of the mandible. Morbidity at the donor site is infrequent and has mostly been related to decreased muscle strength and gait changes. l-3 Stress fractures of the tibia unrelated to graft harvesting are not uncommon and usually occur in athletes or military recruits during strenuous activity.*l’ Stress fractures of the tibia after harvesting a fibular graft are uncommon with two articles1*,13 reporting a total of six cases. Five of these occurred in nonvascularized grafts,12 and only one case has been reported in conjunction with a vascular fibular graft.‘3 We report a patient who had mandibular reconstruction with a vascularized fibular graft who developed a stress fracture of the tibia.
The chicken went into the bush and never came back: a note on infinity

The history of infinity is well known to students of mathematics. The paths laid out by Aristotle and Cantor and by set theorists and theologians have made clear the peculiar ways in which we may view infinity. What is not as well known is that the notion of the infinite has also arisen outside of formal mathematical traditions. In this note, I offer a few examples of how the concept of infinity is manifested in traditions and cultures outside the formal mathematical canon.
The mechanism of a bacterial plasminogen activator intermediate between streptokinase and staphylokinase.

The therapeutic properties of plasminogen activators are dictated by their mechanism of action. Unlike staphylokinase, a single domain protein, streptokinase, a 3-domain (α, β, and γ) molecule, nonproteolytically activates human (h)-plasminogen and protects plasmin from inactivation by α2-antiplasmin. Because a streptokinase-like mechanism was hypothesized to require the streptokinase γ−domain, we examined the mechanism of action of a novel two-domain (α,β)Streptococcus uberis plasminogen activator (SUPA). Under conditions that quench trace plasmin, SUPA nonproteolytically generated an active site in bovine (b)-plasminogen. SUPA also competitively inhibited the inactivation of plasmin by α2-antiplasmin. Still, the lag phase in active site generation and plasminogen activation by SUPA was at least 5-fold longer than that of streptokinase. Recombinant streptokinase γ-domain bound to the b-plasminogen·SUPA complex and significantly reduced these lag phases. The SUPA-b·plasmin complex activated b-plasminogen with kinetic parameters comparable to those of streptokinase for h-plasminogen. The SUPA-b·plasmin complex also activated h-plasminogen but with a lower kcat (25-fold) and kcat/Km (7.9-fold) than SK. We conclude that a γ-domain is not required for a streptokinase-like activation of b-plasminogen. However, the streptokinase γ-domain enhances the rates of active site formation in b-plasminogen and this enhancing effect may be required for efficient activation of plasminogen from other species.
Novel DNA Binding Specificities of a Putative Herpesvirus bZIP Oncoprotein

Marek's disease virus is a highly oncogenic herpesvirus that can cause T lymphomas and peripheral nerve demyelination in chickens. meq, a candidate oncogene of Marek's disease virus, encodes a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor which contains a large proline-rich domain in its C terminus. On the basis of its bZIP structural homology, meq is perhaps the only member of the jun-fos gene family completely viral in origin. We previously showed that Meq's C-terminal domain has potent transactivation activity and that its bZIP domain can dimerize with itself and with c-Jun also. In an effort to identify viral and cellular targets of Meq, we have determined the optimal binding sites for Meq-Jun heterodimers and Meq-Meq homodimers. By a PCR-based approach using cyclic amplification of selected targets, Meq-Jun heterodimers were found to optimally bind tetradecanoylphorbol acetate response element (TRE) and cyclic AMP response element (CRE) consensus sequences. This result was consistent with the results of our previous functional analysis implicating Meq-Jun heterodimers in the transactivation of the Meq promoter through a TRE- or CRE-like sequence. Interestingly, Meq-Meq homodimers were found to bind two distinct motif elements. The first [GAGTGATG AC(G)TCATC] has a consensus which includes a TRE or CRE core flanked by additional nucleotides critical for tight binding. Methylation interference and mutational analyses confirmed the importance of the flanking residues. The sequences of a subset of TRE and CRE sites selected by Meq-Meq are closely related to the binding motif of Maf, another bZIP oncoprotein. The second putative Meq binding site (RACACACAY) bears a completely different consensus not shared by other bZIP proteins. Binding to this consensus sequence also requires secondary structure characteristics associated with DNA bending. CACA motifs are known to promote DNA curvature and function in a number of special biological processes. Our results lend further weight to the increasing importance of DNA bending in transcriptional regulation and provide a baseline for the identification of Meq-responsive targets.
Put Yourself in My Work Shoes: Variations in Work-Related Spousal Support for Professional Married Coworkers

Level and type of spousal shared work has been oversimplified in past research. This research proposes that being similar to a spouse, in the case of paidwork, differs depending on whether spouses shareworkplace, occupation, or both. And this level and type of similarity can influence the level and qualitative characteristics of work-related spousal support as an indicator of marital satisfaction. The results of this study are based on 52 individual semistructured interviews with each member of 26 professional married couples for whom work is shared in terms of occupation, workplace, both, or neither. The level and characteristics of spousal support vary to some extent by occupation pattern. Most strikingly, people who share both occupation and workplace feel that they work closely with their spouses and that working together has been beneficial to their marriages. However, the components of working together qualitatively vary by occupation category.
Activation of the major Drosophila heat-shock genes in vitro

Inactive Drosophila heat-shock genes of isolated diploid nuclei can be induced to a transcriptionally active state by exposure to cytoplasmic extracts from heat-shocked Drosophila cells. No effect was observed on histone gene transcription, and extracts from non-heat-shocked cells were ineffective. The factor in the cytoplasmic extract has been partially purified and characterized. It is protease-sensitive and heat-labile. A striking change accompanies in vitro activation that permits transcription by E. coli RNA polymerase of the chromatin 5' -distal to the structural genes at the 87A and 87C heat-shock gene loci; we have previously observed a similar change after in vivo heat-shock induction. That this change occurred in the absence of endogenous RNA polymerase II activity suggests that these changes may reflect the earliest event in gene activation. Inasmuch as activation also took place after histone H1 depletion, this histone does not appear to be essential for this step of gene activation.
Surface-mount plastic packages-an assessment of their thermal performance

Thermal characteristics of surface mount (SM) plastic packages such as small-outline integrated circuit (SOIC) packages, plastic leaded chip carriers (PLCCs), and fine pitch plastic leaded chip carriers (FPPLCCs) (also known as PQFP, i.e. plastic quad flat pack) used in IC packaging are described. Experimental data are reported on single-component packages in free-air, forced-air, and liquid-immersion cooling environments. Parameters of a model to help a system thermal designer to best utilize the single-component thermal data are discussed. The influence of both the package variables (such as leadframe design, chip size, and heat spreader) and user variables (such as printed-circuit-board material, package density, and cooling mode) on the thermal performance of these packages is assessed. Opportunities to enhance the thermal performance of SM plastic packages are identified and their prospects assessed. >
A collaborative interface for managing design alternatives

Generating and managing multiple ideas is a fundamental part of the creative process for both individual and teams of designers. To be useful for early design, computer tools must effectively support this common practice. This paper proposes a demonstration of a new collaborative interface for managing ideas in computer-based design tools. The core of the interface provides interactive spatial maps for creating, organizing, and reflecting on ideas. The interface was also substantially revised in response to lessons learned from a study comparing its use to the use of other tools for managing multiple ideas during early design work. The revised interface allows designers to tag and filter the idea space, arrange ideas in three distinct views, and efficiently compose and decompose content from multiple ideas.
Asymptotic theory for heterogeneous dynamic pseudo-panels

Dynamic pseudo-panel models with inter-cohort parameter heterogeneity are studied. The population is divided into cohorts and the cohort sample means are used as a heterogeneous panel. Least squares and instrumental variables estimators are considered. Multidimensional limits are analyzed as the cross-sectional and temporal dimensions of the data pass to infinity, allowing for both stationary and nonstationary cases. Monte-Carlo simulations on the finite-sample performance of the estimators in these two dimensions are conducted and these, in conjunction with the asymptotic results, are used to make recommendations for practical implementation of the techniques. An empirical illustration finds heterogeneity in consumption growth rates among Taiwanese birth cohorts.
Structure of Bilinear Forms

There are three major types of bilinear forms: hermitian (or symmetric), unitary, and alternating (skew-symmetric). In this chapter, we give structure theorems giving normalized expressions for these forms with respect to suitable bases. The chapter also follows the standard pattern of decomposing an object into a direct sum of simple objects, insofar as possible.
Angiographic imaging evaluation of patient-specific bifurcation-aneurysm phantom treatment with pre-shaped, self-expanding, flow-diverting stents: feasibility study

Aneurysm treatment using flow diversion could become the treatment of choice in the near future. While such side-wall aneurysm treatments have been studied in many publications and even implemented in selected clinical cases, bifurcation aneurysm treatment using flow diversion has not been addressed in detail. Using angiographic imaging, we evaluated treatment of such cases with several stent designs using patient-specific aneurysm phantoms. The aim is to find a way under fluoroscopic image guidance to place a low-porosity material across the aneurysm orifice while keeping the vessel blockage minimal. Three pre-shaped self-expanding stent designs were developed: the first design uses a middle-flap wing stent, the second uses a two-tapered-wing-ended stent, and the third is a slight modification of the first design in which the middle-flap is anchored tightly against the aneurysm using a standard stent. Treatment effects on flow were evaluated using high-speed angiography (30 fps) and compared with the untreated aneurysm. Contrast inflow was reduced in all the cases: 25% for Type 1, 63% for type 2 and 88% for Type 3. The first and the second stent design allowed some but substantially-reduced flow inside the aneurysm neck as indicated by the time-density curves. The third stent design eliminated almost all flow directed at the aneurysm dome, and only partial filling was observed. In the same time Type 1 and 3 delayed the inflow in the branches up to 100% compared to the untreated phantom. The results are quite promising and warrant future study.
Interpreting Recessions in Terms of Epidemics

The employment characteristics found in a recession are shown to be similar to the disease characteristics found in an epidemic.
Range expansion of invasive shrubs: implication for crown fire risk in forestlands of the southern USA.

Non-native plant invasions and changing management activities have dramatically altered the structure and composition of forests worldwide. Invasive shrubs and fire suppression have led to increased densification and biomass accumulation in forest ecosystems of the southeastern United States. Notably, Chinese and European privets are rapid growing, shade tolerant shrubs which number among the most aggressive invasive species in these forests. Privet encroachment has caused losses of native diversity, alteration of ecosystem processes, and changes in community structure. The latter has become manifest through decreases in fine herbaceous fuels concurrent with increases in coarse woody fuels in forest understories. These alterations in fuel structure will potentially lead to less frequent, but more severe forest fires, which threaten important forest resources during extreme weather conditions. Drawing on extensive datasets compiled by the U. S. Forest Service, we integrated statistical forecasting and analytical techniques within a spatially-explicit, agent-based, simulation framework to predict potential range expansion of Chinese and European privet (Ligustrum sinense and Ligustrum vulgare) and the associated increase in crown fire risk over the next two decades in forestlands of Mississippi and Alabama. Our results indicate that probability of invasion is positively associated with elevation, adjacency (within 300m) to water bodies, mean daily maximum temperature, site productivity, and private land ownership, and is negatively associated with slope, stand age, artificial regeneration, distance to the nearest road, and fire disturbance. Our projections suggest the total area invaded will increase from 1.36 to ≈31.39 percent of all forestlands in Mississippi and Alabama (≈7 million hectares) and the annual frequency of crown fires in these forestlands will approximately double within the next two decades. Such time series projections of annual range expansions and crown fire frequency should provide land managers and restoration practitioners with an invasion chronology upon which to base proactive management plans. Language: en
Investigation of Bubble-Slag Layer Behaviors with Hybrid Eulerian–Lagrangian Modeling and Large Eddy Simulation

In ladle metallurgy, bubble–liquid interaction leads to complex phase structures. Gas bubble behavior, as well as the induced slag layer behavior, plays a significant role in the refining process and the steel quality. In the present work, a mathematical model using the large eddy simulation (LES) is developed to investigate the bubble transport and slag layer behavior in a water model of an argon-stirred ladle. The Eulerian volume of fluid model is adopted to track the liquid steel–slag–air free surfaces while the Lagrangian discrete phase model is used for tracking and handling the dynamics of discrete bubbles. The bubble coalescence is considered using O’Rourke’s algorithm to solve the bubble diameter redistribution and bubbles are removed after leaving the air–liquid interface. The turbulent liquid flow that is induced by bubble–liquid interaction is solved by LES. The slag layer fluactuation, slag droplet entrainment and spout eye open–close phenomenon are well revealed. The bubble diameter distribution and the spout eye size are compared with the experiment. The results show that the hybrid Eulerian–Lagrangian–LES model provides a valid modeling framework to predict the unsteady gas bubble–slag layer coupled behaviors.
Effect of age on directional microphone hearing aid benefit and preference.

BACKGROUND Despite the recognition that the directional microphone hearing aid (DMHA) is an important intervention aimed at helping older hearing-impaired adults understand speech in noisy environments, there is little evidence that older listeners can actually benefit from directional processing. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to determine if older and younger adults can obtain and perceive comparable benefit afforded by DMHAs. STUDY SAMPLE Twenty-four hearing-impaired adults aged 36 through 79 yr were fit with switchable-microphone hearing aids and tested in the laboratory and the field. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS In the laboratory, the listeners' directional benefit and preferences for microphone modes (directional vs. omnidirectional) were assessed using various speech-recognition-in-noise tests. In the four-week field trial, a paired-comparison technique and paper-and-pencil journals were used to determine the benefit provided by directional processing. The effects of age on directional benefit/preference were analyzed using generalized linear models with controlling for the effect of hearing loss. RESULTS The results revealed that age did not have a significant effect on directional benefit and preference as measured in the laboratory. However, the field data showed that older age was significantly associated with a lower preference for the directional mode. CONCLUSION These results indicate that although listeners of different ages may obtain and perceive comparable benefit from DMHAs in laboratory testing, older users tend to perceive less benefit than do younger users in the real world. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Mergers, Employee Hold-Up and the Scope of the Firm: An Intrafirm Bargaining Approach to Mergers

We explore the scope of the firm in a setting where employee wage contracts are nonbinding and firms cannot contract with one another on their respective employment decisions. Specifically, we consider two divisions that have scope for beneficial interaction, and examine whether it is best for them, given this incomplete contracting environment, to produce jointly within the same firm or to interact over the market. Employing a multilateral bargaining framework, we analyze how employee wages, firm profits and employment levels are altered by merger when employees have some hold-up power. Among other results, our analysis suggests that merged production is more likely when the optimal contributions by the two firms to joint production are more unequal (leading to productive and bargaining externalities), while nonintegration is more likely the greater the productive gains to joint interaction between the firms (despite such gains being equally realizable under both merger and nonintegration).
Mentoring. Career enhancement for occupational and environmental health nurses.

Mentoring is a career development and enhancement tool for occupational and environmental health nurses. A history of mentoring in the literature has provided the foundation for understanding mentoring, including the traditional and newer types of mentoring relationships. The benefits and barriers to mentoring for occupational and environmental health nurses include access and mentor-protege qualities. Using a multiple mentor approach in which mentoring relationships change with career development, placement, and needs, rather than a traditional approach where one mentoring relationship is established early in the career and lasts throughout the career, may be most beneficial to occupational and environmental health nurses.