cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Progressive osseous heteroplasia-like heterotopic ossification in a male infant with pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia: a case report.

Abstract Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) Ia is a rare condition associated with multiple hormone resistance and the Albright Hereditary Osteodystrophy (AHO) phenotype. Progressive osseous heteroplasia (POH) is characterized by progressive ossifications of dermal, skeletal muscle and deep connective tissue during childhood. Both PHP Ia and POH are caused by heterozygous inactivating mutations in the GNAS gene. Maternal inheritance of a GNAS mutation leads to an AHO phenotype with hormonal resistance (PHP Ia), whereas paternal inheritance leads to an AHO phenotype without the hormonal resistance (pseudopseudo-hypoparathyroidism). Pure POH (no other AHO features) is also caused by a paternal inheritance of GNAS mutations. Mutations that cause PHP Ia when maternally inherited can cause POH when paternally inherited. We present an unusual case of a boy with clinical features of both POH and PHP Ia, and a GNAS inactivating mutation. Case presentation The patient was referred at 1 month of age with a “knot on his leg”. Plain radiographs revealed subcutaneous ossifications. PE at age 4 months included: length and weight > 95%, a round face, short 4th metacarpals, and extensive subcutaneous ossifications of the lower limbs, buttocks, and back. Studies at age 4 months included an elevated TSH 12.4 mIU/l, free T4 0.86 ng/dl (0.8–2.3), PTH 61 pg/ml (10–65), calcium 9. 8 mg/dl (9.0–11.0), and phosphorus 6. 4 mg/dl (3.8–6.5). By age 16 months, the PTH was elevated at 126 pg/ml. Biopsies of the skin lesions demonstrated osteoma cutis consistent with POH. GNAS analysis revealed a heterozygous deletion in exon 7. The mutation was not detected in either parent. Discussion POH and PHP Ia are rare genetic disorders caused by loss of function mutations of the GNAS gene. POH and PHP Ia do not commonly occur in the same individual as they are associated with paternal versus maternal inheritance (imprinting) of an affected GNAS gene. Our patient has evidence of both severe POH and PHP Ia, apparently due to a de novo mutation in GNAS .
Lipofuscin (aging) pigment granules of the newborn human liver

We have observed pigmented cytoplasmic granules, with the characteristic staining properties of lipofuscin (ceroid, "wear-and-tear") pigment, in newborn human liver. The pigment is found at the periphery of the lobule in hepatocytes and some bile ductular cells. It is acid-fast, PAS-positive after diastase digestion, slightly argyophilic and sudanophilic, and markedly Schmorl's- and peroxidase positive in paraffin sections. Difficult to see in sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin, the pigment can be detected in unstained sections. The granules also resemble lipofuscin found in adult tissues, in their ultra-structural and enzymatic properties. They are polymorphic, contain granular material of moderate and high electron opacity, and are delimited by a single membrane. Acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase activities are visualized in the newborn granules, identifying them as lysosomes. The granules also contain copper and, to a much lesser extent, iron. The accumulation of lipofuscin pigment in lysosomes in many tissues correlates well with aging, and this process has been interpreted as a reflection of cellular degeneration or wear-and-tear. However, the presence of lipofuscin granules as a constant component of neonatal liver suggests that they are not a measure of cellular senescence.
Towards High-Performance Monolithic Ge-on-Si Lasers for Integrated Photonics

We present the latest progress in Ge-on-Si lasers and propose improved device design and fabrication, including enhanced n-type doping, strain engineering, and novel quantum well design, to achieve lasing performance comparable to III-V lasers.
Spatial and spectral heterogeneity of time‐varying shear stress profiles in the carotid bifurcation by phase‐contrast MRI

Purpose To determine the heterogeneity of the time-varying shear stress profiles in the human carotid bifurcation, a region prone to atherosclerosis. Materials and Methods Lagrangian bicubic interpolation of phase-contrast MRI images was used to determine the shear stress profiles for three adult healthy male volunteers. Frequency spectra for the common and internal carotid artery (CCA and ICA, respectively)-derived shear stresses were examined in order to determine the presence of significant heterogeneity in the intensity distribution. Results Hemodynamic characteristics (peak, minimum, average shear stress, and oscillatory shear index [OSI]) were highly heterogeneous both along the length of the vessel as well as circumferentially around the CCA and ICA. In the frequency domain, intensities below 4 Hz were significantly higher in the CCA compared to the sinus region of the ICA, indicating that shear stress heterogeneity can be detected in the frequency domain. The harmonic index, a measure of the relative contributions of dynamic and static components of the shear stress signal, colocalizes with OSI, which implies a relationship between specific frequency components and atherosclerosis development. Conclusion These findings indicate that the time and frequency dependent parameters of in vivo shear stress have important implications for regional development of atherosclerosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Spinodal decomposition of a one-component fluid: A hydrodynamic fluctuation theory and comparison with computer simulation

We present a theory of spinodal decomposition which is based on the linearized hydrodynamic equations including the stochastic fluctuations in stress tensor and heat flux and which accounts for nonlocal driving force through pressure gradient. The equation of state is obtained using liquid-state perturbation theory, and the transport coefficients are obtained from the Enskog theory of dense fluids. The theory thus has no adjustable parameters. The time-dependent structure factor calculated from the theory is in good quantitative agreement with molecular-dynamics experiments for early times. An effective amplification factor extracted from the experimental results also agrees well with the theoretical dispersion of the growing mode. Extension of our theory to binary-fluid mixtures shows that, within the linear regime, hydrodynamic flow effects are negligible and the Cahn-Cook description is adequate.
Inter-NICU Variation in Growth, Feeding Practices and Gestational Age at Discharge (GAdisch) in Healthy Preterm Infants

Inter-NICU Variation in Growth, Feeding Practices and Gestational Age at Discharge (GAdisch) in Healthy Preterm Infants
Reproductive and metabolic hormones during estrus after fasting in Holstein heifers

Abstract The estrous cycles of 23 Holstein heifers were synchronized with three prostaglandin F2α (PG) injections at 0600 h 11 d apart, designated as Days −11, 0 and 11. Twelve of the animals were randomly assigned to receive no solid food (Group F) from Day 6 to 14, while the other animals remained on full feed to serve as controls (Group C). Jugular blood samples were collected at 6-h intervals beginning with PG injection at 0600 h on Day 0 until 1800 h on Day 4 and at 0600, 1200 and 1700 h on Day 8 through 10. Samples were collected again at 6-h intervals from PG Day 11 (0600 h) until 1800 h on Day 15. Period 1 was defined as those samples collected from Day 0 through 4.5, Period 2 from Day 7 through 10, Period 3 from Day 11 through 14.25, and Period 4 from Day 14.5 through 15. Plasma growth hormone concentrations were increased (P 0.05) between F and C animals, plasma estradiol-17β concentrations decreased in F as compared with C animals during Periods 2, 3 and 4. No differences (P>0.05) between F and C animals were found in duration to LH peak after PG injection, estrous behavior, or pregnancy rates. Results from this study indicate that fasting reduced plasma estradiol-17β concentrations during estrus but did not alter occurrence of estrus or pregnancy rate.
Cellular proliferation in the skin of x-rayed newt limbs (with a note on x-ray-induced limb regression)

Left hind limbs, including the pelvis, of adult newts (Notophthalmus viridescens) were locally irradiated with a dose of x-rays that inhibited regeneration (2,000 R). This x-ray dose and other doses (700-2,000 R) capable of inhibiting limb regeneration also cause limb regression prior to amputation. Before limb regression occurred, there was a latent period of 3 to 6 weeks. Limb regression was characterized by necrotic wasting and resorption of distal elements. The degree of loss was variable and dependent upon dosage. After this further degenerative changes were not noted. Proliferation of epidermal cells was examined 4 days after irradiation prior to limb regression or after x-ray-induced degeneration of the limbs had ended. Proliferative activity in x-rayed limbs was also compared at various stages of contralateral control limb regeneration. Limbs examined after x-ray-induced limb regression had ended showed levels of (/sup 3/H)-thymidine incorporation into DNA comparable to normal epidermis. In contrast, limbs examined 4 days after irradiation had lower levels of DNA synthesis (P much less than 0.01). Amputation of limbs in both groups caused an increase in DNA synthesis (P much less than 0.01). Histological examination showed that cellular proliferation was associated primarily with the epidermis. These results indicate that epidermalmore » cell proliferation was not resistant to x-rays. However, levels of normal cell division were observed after amputation of after cessation of x-ray-induced limb regression.« less
Designing Plasmonic Nanomaterials as Sensors of Biochemical Transport

Gold nanoparticle arrays and gold nanorods produce tunable plasmon responses in the near-infrared (NIR) range and can be used to explore biochemical processes in living systems. Colloidal gold nanoparticles up to 170 nm have been self-assembled into periodic 2D arrays when encapsulated by a novel surfactant (resorcinarene tetrathiol). The arrays are capable of supporting cell adhesion, and can be excellent substrates for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) at NIR excitations. Spherical "superparticle" ensembles (gold nanoparticles densely packed around submicron silica cores) have also been constructed by self-assembly, and exhibit strong NIR extinction and scattering. These core-shell assemblies have been implanted into live cells as intracellular nanoprobes for detecting chemical influx. Third, gold nanorods can be engineered to have longitudinal plasmon resonances at NIR frequencies, and possess outstanding characteristics as optical contrast agents. Gold nanorods can produce strong two-photon luminescence (TPL), and have been imaged in vivo at the single-particle level while passing through a mouse blood vessel. [DOI: 10.1380/ejssnt.2006.9]
The (Relative) Risks of Using Odds Ratios

Odds ratios are commonly presented in the medical literature, including dermatology journals. Even when used appropriately, odds ratios are often difficult to interpret. This article illustrates this problem using an example from the recent dermatology literature. It then reviews the definitions of odds and odds ratio, as well as how odds and odds ratio relate to probability and relative risk. The divergence of odds ratios from relative risks when events are common (occurring in > or =10% of a sample) is explained. Methods to convert odds ratios to relative risks (and the reasons why conversion should be considered) are discussed.
A New Perspective on Priors for Generalized Linear Models

Abstract This article deals with specifications of informative prior distributions for generalized linear models. Our emphasis is on specifying distributions for selected points on the regression surface; the prior distribution on regression coefficients is induced from this specification. We believe that it is inherently easier to think about conditional means of observables given the regression variables than it is to think about model-dependent regression coefficients. Previous use of conditional means priors seems to be restricted to logistic regression with one predictor variable and to normal theory regression. We expand on the idea of conditional means priors and extend these to arbitrary generalized linear models. We also consider data augmentation priors where the prior is of the same form as the likelihood. We show that data augmentation priors are special cases of conditional means priors. With current Monte Carlo methodology, such as importance sampling and Gibbs sampling, our priors result in...
Gastrointestinal, Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic, and Iron-Related Diseases in Long-Term Survivors of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

Gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary problems in the second year after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) are usually a continuation of symptoms of protracted acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), chronic GVHD, medication side effects, and infection related to immune suppression. As time passes, as tolerance develops, and as immunity improves, the frequency and severity of these problems wane, but new problems involving the gut and liver may arise, sometimes insidiously and sometimes decades after the transplant. Examples are esophageal strictures related to chronic GVHD, gallstones, cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis C, secondary malignancy, and rare cases of pancreatic atrophy. One very common complication of transplantation, iron overload, is often associated with substantial iron accumulation in the liver; however, the most troublesome complications are not hepatic but cardiac and endocrine-related.
Interferon-γ-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of MEKK4 via Pyk2 is regulated by annexin II and SHP2 in keratinocytes

IFNγ (interferon-γ) binding to its cognate receptor results, through JAK (Janus kinase), in direct activation of receptor-bound STAT1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 1), although there is evidence for additional activation of a MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) pathway. In the present paper, we report IFNγ-dependent activation of the MEKK4 (MAPK/extracellular-signal-regulated kinase kinase kinase 4) pathway in HaCaT human keratinocytes. MEKK4 is tyrosine­-phosphorylated and the IFNγ-dependent phosphorylation requires intracellular calcium. Calcium-dependent phosphorylation of MEKK4 is mediated by Pyk2. Moreover, MEKK4 and Pyk2 co-localize in an IFNγ-dependent manner in the perinuclear region. Furthermore, the calcium-binding protein, annexin II, and the calcium-regulated kinase, Pyk2, co-immunoprecipitate with MEKK4 after treatment with IFNγ. Immunofluorescence imaging of HaCaT cells shows an IFNγ-dependent co-localization of annexin II with Pyk2 in the perinuclear region, suggesting that annexin II mediates the calcium-dependent regulation of Pyk2. Tyrosine phosphorylation of MEKK4 correlates with its activity to phosphorylate MKK6 (MAPK kinase 6) in vitro and subsequent p38 MAPK activation in an IFNγ-dependent manner. Additional studies demonstrate that the SH2 (Src homology 2)-domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 co-immunoprecipitates with MEKK4 in an IFNγ-dependent manner and co-localizes with MEKK4 after IFNγ stimulation in the perinuclear region in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, we provide evidence that SHP2 dephosphorylates MEKK4 and Pyk2, terminating the MEKK4-dependent branch of the IFNγ signalling pathway.
Non-linear resonances in the forced responses of plates, part 1: Symmetric responses of circular plates

The dynamic analogue of the von Karman equations is used to study the symmetric response of a circular plate to a harmonic excitation when the frequency of the excitation is near one of the natural frequencies. It is shown that, in general, when there is no internal resonance (i.e., the natural frequencies are not commensurable), only the mode having a frequency near that of the excitation is strongly excited (i.e., is needed to represent the response in the first approximation). A clamped, circular plate is used as a numerical example to show that, when there is an internal resonance, more than one of the modes involved in this resonance can be strongly excited; moreover, when more than one mode is strongly excited, the lower modes can dominate the response, even when the frequency of the excitation is near that of the highest mode. This possibility was not revealed by any of the earlier studies which were based on the same governing equations.
Mobile Phone Technology: A New Paradigm for the Prevention, Treatment, and Research of the Non-sheltered “Street” Homeless?

Individuals experiencing homelessness have disproportionately high rates of health problems. Those who perceive themselves as having greater access to their social support networks have better physical and mental health outcomes as well as lower rates of victimization. Mobile phones offer a connection to others without the physical constraints of landlines and, therefore, may make communication (e.g., access to one’s social support networks) more feasible for homeless individuals. This, in turn, could lead toward better health outcomes. This exploratory study examined mobile phone possession and use among a sample of 100 homeless men and women who do not use the shelter system in Philadelphia, PA. Interviews were comprised of the Homeless Supplement to the Diagnostic Interview Schedule, a technology module created for this investigation, and the substance use and psychiatric sections of the Addiction Severity Index. Almost half (44%) of the sample had a mobile phone. In the past 30 days, 100% of those with mobile phones placed or received a call, over half (61%) sent or received a text message, and one fifth (20%) accessed the Internet via their mobile phone. Participants possessed and used mobile phones to increase their sense of safety, responsibility (employment, stable housing, personal business, and sobriety or “clean time”), and social connectedness. Mobile phones could potentially be used by public health/health care providers to disseminate information to the street homeless, to enhance communication between the street homeless and providers, and to increase access for the street homeless to prevention, intervention, and aftercare services. Finally, this technology could also be used by researchers to collect data with this transient population.
Automatic phase correction of fourier transform NMR spectra based on the dispersion versus absorption (DISPA) lineshape analysis

Abstract A method for automatic phase correction of Fourier transform NMR spectra bused on the dispersion versus absorption (DISPA) lineshape analysis is described. The DISPA display of a single misphased Lorentzian line gives a unit circle which has been rotated about the origin (relative to its “reference circle”) by a number of degrees equal to the phase misadjustment. This rotation, Φ, is a combination of the zero- and first-order phase angles at the frequency of the resonance. Calculation of Φ for two or more resonances allows the spectral phasing parameters to be determined and applied to correct the spectrum. This approach has been implemented in both automatic and “semi-automatic” modes.
Structural and mechanistic analysis of trichodiene synthase using site-directed mutagenesis: probing the catalytic function of tyrosine-295 and the asparagine-225/serine-229/glutamate-233-Mg2+B motif.

Trichodiene synthase from Fusarium sporotrichioides contains two metal ion-binding motifs required for the cyclization of farnesyl diphosphate: the “aspartate-rich” motif D100DXX(D/E) that coordinates to Mg2+A and Mg2+C, and the “NSE/DTE” motif N225DXXSXXXE that chelates Mg2+B (boldface indicates metal ion ligands). Here, we report steady-state kinetic parameters, product array analyses, and X-ray crystal structures of trichodiene synthase mutants in which the fungal NSE motif is progressively converted into a plant-like DDXXTXXXE motif, resulting in a degradation in both steady-state kinetic parameters and product specificity. Each catalytically active mutant generates a different distribution of sesquiterpene products, and three newly detected sesquiterpenes are identified. In addition, the kinetic and structural properties of the Y295F mutant of trichodiene synthase were found to be similar to those of the wild-type enzyme, thereby ruling out a proposed role for Y295 in catalysis.
Pediatric HIV Infection: Effects on Development, Learning, and Interventions

Pediatric HIV infection is the cause of the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) which has devastated the lives of many young children and their families. Pediatric AIDS is predicted to be the fifth leading cause of death in children in the near future. Because of the increase of the AIDS epidemic, teachers need to be informed about transmission of the HIV virus, the course of the diseases, and especially about its effects on children's development and learning. In addition, current information about interventions is essential for teachers to assist affected students in developing their abilities to learn and achieve at school. This article briefly reviews the modes of transmission of HIV and the course of the disease. Then, there is a focus on its effects on children's development and learning. Treatments, therapies, and possible educational interventions are described. As educators, we are challenged to learn more effective methods of helping these youngsters fulfill their learning potentials and ...
Does negative affect beget positive affect? A test of the opponent-process theory

A modified form of the Nowlis (1965, 1970) mood adjective checklist was administered to college students just before and immediately after taking a final course examination. In agreement with prediction from the opponent-process theory of motivation developed by Solomon and Corbit (1974), dysphoria decreased reliably and, more significantly, euphoria increased.
Cellular interactions and signaling in cartilage development.

The long bones of the developing skeleton, such as those of the limb, arise from the process of endochondral ossification, where cartilage serves as the initial anlage element and is later replaced by bone. One of the earliest events of embryonic limb development is cellular condensation, whereby pre-cartilage mesenchymal cells aggregate as a result of specific cell-cell interactions, a requisite step in the chondrogenic pathway. In this review an extensive examination of historical and recent literature pertaining to limb development and mesenchymal condensation has been undertaken. Topics reviewed include limb initiation and axial induction, mesenchymal condensation and its regulation by various adhesion molecules, and regulation of chondrocyte differentiation and limb patterning. The complexity of limb development is exemplified by the involvement of multiple growth factors and morphogens such as Wnts, transforming growth factor-beta and fibroblast growth factors, as well as condensation events mediated by both cell-cell (neural cadherin and neural cell adhesion molecule) and cell-matrix adhesion (fibronectin, proteoglycans and collagens), as well as numerous intracellular signaling pathways transduced by integrins, mitogen activated protein kinases, protein kinase C, lipid metabolites and cyclic adenosine monophosphate. Furthermore, information pertaining to limb patterning and the functional importance of Hox genes and various other signaling molecules such as radical fringe, engrailed, Sox-9, and the Hedgehog family is reviewed. The exquisite three-dimensional structure of the vertebrate limb represents the culmination of these highly orchestrated and strictly regulated events. Understanding the development of cartilage should provide insights into mechanisms underlying the biology of both normal and pathologic (e.g. osteoarthritis) adult cartilage.
Risk Factors and Early Outcomes of Multiple Reoperations in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Background Advances in treatment of congenital heart disease (CHD) have resulted in most patients surviving to adulthood. Despite surgical "correction," the need for reoperation(s) persists, and there are few outcome data. This study examined early postoperative results to determine risk factors for cardiac injury and early death in adults with CHD undergoing repeat median sternotomy. Methods Data from the most recent median sternotomy of 984 adults (49% male) with CHD were analyzed. Mean age at operation was 36.4 years. Diagnoses were conotruncal anomaly, 361 (37%); Ebstein/Tricuspid valve, 174 (18%); pulmonary stenosis/right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, 92 (9%); single ventricle, 71 (7%); atrioventricular septal defect, 64 (7%); subaortic stenosis, 62 (6%); aortic arch abnormalities, 23 (2%); anomalous pulmonary vein, 21 (2%); Marfan syndrome, 14 (1%); and other, 102 (10%). Results Overall early mortality was 3.6%: including 2%, 6%, 7%, and 0% at sternotomy 2 (n = 597), 3 (n = 284), 4 (n = 72), and 5+ (n = 31), respectively. Cardiac injury occurred in 6%. Independent predictors of cardiac injury were single-ventricle diagnosis and increased number of prior sternotomies. Increased time from previous sternotomy decreased the incidence of cardiac injury. Independent risk factors for early death were urgent operation, single-ventricle diagnosis, and longer bypass time. Increased preoperative ejection fraction decreased early mortality. Conclusions Subsequent sternotomy showed increased early mortality, yet neither sternotomy number nor cardiac injury was an independent predictor of early death. Two variables were protective: early mortality was reduced with increased ejection fraction and cardiac injury was less likely with increased interval from the previous sternotomy.
EARLY PULMONARY FUNCTION STUDIES OF INFANTS WITH BRONCHO-PULMONARY DYSPLASIA (BPD)

In 3 infants (birthweight 920, 1720 and 2030 g) with clinical and radiologic BPD, minute volume (VE), lung compliance CL (ml/cm H2O/kg), pulmonary resistance RL (cm H2O/L/sec) and blood gases were measured repeatedly during the first eight weeks of life. All had severe respiratory distress syndrome at birth and they were treated with high O2 and assisted ventilation for varying periods of time. Two infants remained O2 dependent until death at 4 and 11 wks. of age, and the survivor until 4 months of age. The mean of the measurements in each infant was significantly below normal for CL/kg, 0.3, 0.4, and 1.1 respectively and significantly increased for RL at mid-inspiration 107, 81 and 52, at mid-expiration 190, 218, 247, and mean RL 143, 158, 109 respectively. VE was increased (720 ml/min). Arterial blood gases showed hypoxia and hypercarbia reflecting the infants' clinical condition. A large portion of the abnormalities could be explained by an extreme loss of lung volume (atelectasis) and lung fibrosis. This was confirmed by necropsy in 2 cases. The two most severely ill infants had persistently low lung compliance and succumbed due to intractable lung damage.
Tonometric changes of latanoprost-induced intraocular pressure reduction after photorefractive keratectomy.

PURPOSE To assess whether tonometric measurements of the drop in intraocular pressure (IOP) induced by 0.005% latanoprost are modified after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). METHODS Data from 24 randomly selected eyes of 24 patients (12 men and 12 women, mean age +/- SD: 31.7 +/- 6.2 years) who were undergoing bilateral PRK for myopia (-6.38 +/- 2.26 D) were obtained. Objective refraction, central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior radius of corneal curvature (R), and IOP measurements at baseline and 24 hours after 1 drop of 0.005% latanoprost, were performed before and 6 months after PRK. All measured IOPs were recalculated by a correction factor for CCT and R and expressed as true IOP (IOPT) measurements. RESULTS The mean CCT +/- SD was 544.58 +/- 36.03 and 463.21 +/- 38.59 micro m, and the anterior radius of corneal curvature was 7.73 +/- 0.26 and 8.33 +/- 0.37 mm, before and after PRK, respectively. The mean IOP at baseline was 15.8 +/- 2.92 and 12.23 +/- 2.37 mm Hg, and after latanoprost administration was 12.54 +/- 1.97 and 10.19 +/- 1.47 mm Hg, before and after PRK, respectively. The mean IOPT at baseline was 15.46 +/- 1.08 and 16.18 +/- 2.31 mm Hg, and after latanoprost administration was 11.85 +/- 1.56 and 12.96 +/- 1.71 mm Hg, before and after PRK, respectively. The mean IOP and IOPT reductions after latanoprost administration were, respectively, 3.25 +/- 1.66 and 3.61 +/- 1.7 mm Hg before PRK, and 2.03 +/- 1.42 and 3.22 +/- 1.79 mm Hg after PRK. Pre- and postoperative IOP reduction significantly differed (P < 0.001), but not IOPT. CONCLUSIONS The effect of hypotensive drugs on IOP readings may be underestimated because of measurement errors due to CCT reduction and R increase after PRK for myopia. Misdiagnosis of reduced pharmacologic efficacy may be avoided if the measured IOP is corrected by a proper nomogram.
MEDIA COVERAGE OF Y2K: CONTENT ANALYSIS FROM A SINGLE NEWSPAPER. 1997 TO 2000'

Content analysis of 258 Year 2000 Y2K-related articles published in a statewide newspaper between 1997 and 2000 indicated topics covered and changes over this three-year period leading up to 2000.
Intrinsic Surface Phonons in Porous Glass

Raman scattering and infrared reflectivity measurements have been performed on samples of porous Vycor glass. Three features in the spectra are due to intrinsic surface phonons. This identification is supported by a simple new theory for the surface.
CMR assessment of right ventricular function in patients with combined pulmonary stenosis and insufficiency after correction of tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common form of cyanotic congenital heart disease. Following surgical correction, most patients present with pulmonary insufficiency (PI) which plays a pivotal role in right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. Multiple prior studies have demonstrated the accuracy of CMR for assessment of RV volumes, ejection fraction and pulmonary regurgitant fraction, especially in the setting of an enlarged right ventricle. The deleterious effect of chronic pulmonary regurgitation on RV function is well known and pulmonary valve replacement has been shown to improve ventricular function in these patients. However, the effects of residual pulmonary stenosis on RV function are not well understood. Using CMR and conductance catheter techniques, a study performed in a growing pig model demonstrated that chronic pulmonary stenosis and insufficiency (PSPI) results in improved RV myocardial contractility when compared to a group with isolated PI, indicating a possible protective effect. The combined effect of PSPI on RV function has never been reported in a human model.
Forage Legume-Small Grain Intercrops: Nitrogen Production and Response of Subsequent Corn

Frost-seeding a legume into an established stand of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) or interseeding a legume into a small grain at planting has potential to provide the benefits of a legume green manure while still allowing for the harvest of a revenue-producing crop. Field studies were conducted at three Michigan locations to quantify N accumulation by alfalfa (medicago sativa L.) and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) frost-seeded into winter wheat or interseeded with oat (Avena sativa L.), and to evaluate the response of a subsequent corn (Zea mays L.) crop to legume and fertilizer N (...)
Scanning electron micrographic studies of ettringite formation

Abstract The morphology of ettringite, formed by various reactions (C3A + gypsum, C3A + anhydrite, CA + magnesium sulfate, in the presence and absence of calcium hydroxide) was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Methods included immersion of solid samples into saturated solutions of the other reactant, and paste hydration. It is concluded that slender needles and spherulites are formed only if sufficient space is available; alternately (e.g. in pastes of lower water-to-solid ratios) ettringite occurs as short, prismatic crystals. Ettringite is formed in C3A-gypsum pastes near the surface of C3A grains by a through-solution mechanism; a topochemical mechanism can be definitely excluded. Results are significant for a better understanding of mechanism of expansion and set retardation by gypsum.
Intervalence Energy Effects Accompanying Double Crown Encapsulation of the Creutz-Taube Ion: An Interpretation Based on Three-Site Mixing

Recently, the authors reported the profound effects of second-sphere crown either binding upon the redox energetics and intervalence spectroscopy of selected mixed-valence species. (Crown/metal complex association is driven primarily by ether oxygen/ammine hydrogen interactions, where the H-bond-donating capability of NH{sub 3} is greatly enhanced by coordination to a transition-metal cation.) For delocalized species such as the Creutz-Taube ion and its derivatives, asymmetric binding of a single crown can significantly perturb the basic electronic structure of the system, resulting in striking shifts in intervalence absorption energies, substantial changes in intervalence line shapes, and drastic redistributions of intervalence related Franck-Codon activity. Collectively these effects have been attributed to the possible onset of asymmetry-induced valence localization or partial localization. Consistent with that interpretation, binding of a second crown ether largely restores the original spectra (and, of course, the overall supramolecular symmetry). Nevertheless, closer examination of the available data for doubly bound or encapsulated complexes shows the modest spectral changes (in comparison to the case of free species) do accompany the binding. Most notably, intervalence spectra become somewhat narrower and are shifted detectably in energy. These effects, while small, are difficult to understand within the context of standard two-site models for valence delocalization. Themore » authors show here that related effects occur in the visible portion of the electronic spectrum, that the effects in both spectral regions increase with increasing macrocycle size, and that the effects can be correlated with previously observed, crown-induced electrochemical effects. The authors additionally show that the multiplicity of spectral effects can be explained - at least qualitatively - on the basis of a three-site description of electronic delocalization.« less
Least-squares estimates of thorium, particle, and nutrient cycling rate constants from the JGOFS North Atlantic Bloom Experiment

Abstract Least-squares estimates of rate constants for the cycling of thorium, total particulate material, PON, and POC are presented at three different times during the North Atlantic Bloom Experiment. The estimates are based on previously published data collected between 24 April and 30 May 1989 and include water column profiles between 100 and 400 m and sediment trap data at 150 m and 300 m. Rate constants are based on a particle cycling model with suspended small particles and rapidly sinking large particles. Conservation equations for POC, PON, total particle mass, 228 Th, and 234 Th in the large particle phase and conservation equations for POC and PON in the small particle phase are used as constraints in the least-squares problem. Rate constants are predicted for 100 and 33% trap efficiency scenarios. The 33% trapping efficiency scenario produces results that are consistent with the water column 234 Th budget. The lower trapping efficiency increases aggregation and remineralization rate constants. Rate constants increase during the course of the bloom, from 2±0.2 to 76±9 year −1 for aggregation, 156±17 to 524±74 year −1 for disaggregation, and 13 ± 1 to 77 ± 10 year −1 for remineralization. Over the course of the bloom, increases in predicted aggregation, disaggregation, and remineralization fluxes are also resolved.
Patterns of first‐year survival among infants with selected congenital anomalies in Texas, 1995–1997

Background: Few registry-based studies have investigated survival among infants with congenital anomalies. We conducted a registry-based study to examine patterns and probability of survival during the first year of life among infants with selected congenital anomalies. Methods: Data from the Texas Birth Defects Monitoring Division were merged with linked birth-infant death files for 2,774 infants born January 1, 1995 to December 31, 1997, with at least 1 of 23 common anomalies. Deaths before the first birthday were assessed from infant death files. Kaplan-Meier was used to estimate first-year survival; first-year survival was assessed for specific anomalies and by the number of life-threatening anomalies. Results: Overall, 80.8% of infants with these 23 anomalies survived the first year of life. We observed the highest survival rates for infants with gastroschisis (92.9%, 95% Cl = 86.8, 96.3), trisomy 21 (92.3%, 95% Cl = 89.5, 94.4) or cleft lip with or without cleft palate (87.6%, 95% Cl = 84.0, 90.5). Infants with intermediate survival rates included those with microcephaly (79.7%; 95% Cl = 73.6, 84.6), tetralogy of Fallot (75.0%; 95% Cl = 65.5, 82.2), or with diaphragmatic hernia (72.8%; 95% Cl = 61.8, 81.2). As expected, all infants with anencephaly and almost all infants with trisomy 13 or trisomy 18 died during the first year of life. First-year survival declined as the number of co-occurring life-threatening anomalies increased. Conclusions: Overall, first-year survival for infants with congenital anomalies was high. Additional population-based studies are needed to quantify improvements in first-year survival.
The zinc–vanadium–oxygen–water system: hydrothermal synthesis and characterization

Abstract Zinc forms a variety of structures with vanadium oxide. We review and report here on four compounds formed by mild hydrothermal synthesis in the presence of the tetramethyl ammonium ion, which tends to stabilize layered vanadium oxide structures. These invariably contain protons either in the form of hydroxyl ions or as structural water. The compounds include Zn 3 (OH) 2 (V 2 O 7 )•2H 2 O, which contains V 2 O 7 pillars, Zn 2 (OH) 3 (VO 3 ), and the two related double sheet vanadium oxides δ -Zn 0.8 V 4 O 10 •0.6H 2 O and [N(CH 3 ) 4 ] 4 [Zn 4 V 21 O 58 ]. We report the new structure of the last, which was determined from micron size crystals, and compare it to other double sheet structures. These compounds provide model systems to study ionic mobility and reversible redox chemistry.
Effects of Number of Animals Monitored on Representations of Cattle Group Movement Characteristics and Spatial Occupancy

The number of animals required to represent the collective characteristics of a group remains a concern in animal movement monitoring with GPS. Monitoring a subset of animals from a group instead of all animals can reduce costs and labor; however, incomplete data may cause information losses and inaccuracy in subsequent data analyses. In cattle studies, little work has been conducted to determine the number of cattle within a group needed to be instrumented considering subsequent analyses. Two different groups of cattle (a mixed group of 24 beef cows and heifers, and another group of 8 beef cows) were monitored with GPS collars at 4 min intervals on intensively managed pastures and corn residue fields in 2011. The effects of subset group size on cattle movement characterization and spatial occupancy analysis were evaluated by comparing the results between subset groups and the entire group for a variety of summarization parameters. As expected, more animals yield better results for all parameters. Results show the average group travel speed and daily travel distances are overestimated as subset group size decreases, while the average group radius is underestimated. Accuracy of group centroid locations and group radii are improved linearly as subset group size increases. A kernel density estimation was performed to quantify the spatial occupancy by cattle via GPS location data. Results show animals among the group had high similarity of spatial occupancy. Decisions regarding choosing an appropriate subset group size for monitoring depend on the specific use of data for subsequent analysis: a small subset group may be adequate for identifying areas visited by cattle; larger subset group size (e.g. subset group containing more than 75% of animals) is recommended to achieve better accuracy of group movement characteristics and spatial occupancy for the use of correlating cattle locations with other environmental factors.
Theoretical considerations of time delay for bias-field pulsing in y.i.g.

Theoretical calculations are performed which compliment experimental results achieved with bias-field pulsing of magnetoelastic waves propagating in yttrium-iron garnet. For the inhomogeneous magnetic field case, under the application of a maintained field step, the magnetoelastic regime is divided into five regions in order to investigate the properties of time delay, frequency translation, frequency modulation, pulse expansion, pulse inversion and pulse compression. The results for a field ramp applied to the spinwave regime are also evaluated.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction versus Traditional Solvent Extraction of Caffeine from Tea Leaves: A Laboratory-Based Case Study for an Organic Chemistry Course

In this case-based laboratory, an instrument sales person attempts to convince an analysis laboratory of the virtues of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). The sales person deals directly with the laboratory technicians who will make the decision. Arrangements are made to have SFE instrumentation brought into the laboratory for a comparative study. The extraction and gravimetric determination of caffeine from finely cut tea leaves is chosen as the “test”. The technicians are divided into two groups. Group A performs a traditional solvent extraction using methylene chloride (CH2Cl2)/alkaline water and group B using a SFE method. Students play the role of laboratory technicians and use the data collected to determine which method they would choose considering several variables and issues. It puts the student into a real-world situation and requires them to apply their critical-thinking skills to make a decision. This case-based laboratory exposed second-year science students to a new technology, provided ...
Experiments on effective elastic modulus of two-dimensional solids with cracks and holes

In this paper, some basic concepts on effective properties of nonhomogeneous elastic solids are reviewed. The various theories are evaluated by conducting experiments on artificially cracked and porous solids, and by comparing the results with the theoretical predictions for the cases of interacting and non-interacting inhomogeneities. Two aluminum plates containing slots and two containing circular holes in random mutual positions with different orientational distributions were tested. In the case of plates containing random slots it is shown that the approximation of non-interacting cracks provides a reasonable estimate of the modulus, even when interactions may be significant. The results obtained from the plates containing circular holes indicate that, as porosity increases, the effective Young's modulus follows the predictions for the case of interacting holes from both Mori-Tanaka and differential schemes.
Numerical simulations of double layers and auroral electric fields

Recent one-dimensional and two-dimensional numerical simulations of double layers (DLs) in the electric fields of the auroral plasma are reviewed, with reference to observational data. It is found that two-dimensional DLs driven by current sheets of finite thickness have different characteristics, depending on whether the layer thickness is less than or much greater than the ion gyroradius: When thickness is less than ion gyroradius, V-shaped DLs form with nearly equal parallel and perpendicular potential drops; when layer thickness is much greater than ion gyroradius the major parallel potential drop occurs outside the current sheet and the perpendicular electric fields are localized at the edges of the current sheet. It is shown that some features of the simulated fields, such as the amplitudes and scale lengths, are qualitatively similar to those observed in space.
Advantages of perfluorochemical perfusion in the isolated working rabbit heart preparation using 31P-NMR

Quantitative ^(31)P-NMR and enzymatic analysis of high-energy phosphates were used to characterize an isolated perfused working rabbit heart preparation. In this model, the left side of the heart works against a physiological after-load. Two perfusates, Krebs-Henseleit saline and the perfluorocarbon emulsion FC-43 (perfluorotributylamine), were evaluated in their ability to maintain cardiac function and high-energy phosphate metabolites over a period of 2–3 h. Adenine nucleotides ATP, ADP, phosphocreatine and inorganic phosphate (P_i) were measured by ^(31)P-NMR while monitoring cardiac output and coronary flow. Intracellular pH was determined using the chemical shift of P_i. At the end of each experiment, hearts were freeze clamped and enzymatically assayed for adenine nucleotides, phosphocreatine and P_i. In every experiment, hearts perfused with FC-43 emulsion maintained the same rate of cardiac output as hearts perfused with Krebs-Henseleit saline, but with half the coronary flow rate: FC-43, 22 ± 2.5 (n = 5), Krebs-Henseleit saline 42 ± 2.7 (n = 6) ml/min, P < 0.001. Hearts perfused with FC-43 emulsion showed higher [phosphocreatine] and [ATP] measured by 31P-NMR. For [phosphocreatine]: FC-43 3.2 ± 0.7 (n = 5), Krebs-Henseleit saline 1.7 ± 0.2 (n = 6) μmol/g wet wt., P < 0.01. For [ATP]: FC-43 1.8 ± 0.7 (n = 5), Krebs-Henseleit saline 0.9 ± 0.2 (n = 6) μmol/g wet wt., P < 0.02. [phosphocreatine] and [ATP] determined by ^(31)P-NMR values were identical within experimental error to those values obtained by enzymatic analysis. Comparing [P_i] determined by both methods, 36% of P_i in FC-43-perfused hearts, and only 24% of P_i in Krebs-Henseleit saline-perfused hearts were visible by NMR, indicating that a large proportion of P_i is bound in the intact functioning heart. Similar results were obtained for [ADP]. Using the combined techniques of ^(31)P-NMR and enzymatic assay, we have shown in this model of the isolated working rabbit heart preparation, that FC-43 emulsion maintains significantly better function and high-energy phosphate levels than Krebs-Henseleit saline.
Microelectrode studies of the afferent connections and efferent projections of neurons in the sensorimotor cortex of the cat.

Abstract The functional anatomy of neurons of cat sigmoid gyrus has been studied. Simultaneous recording with four microelectrodes in pre- and postcruciate cortex was carried out. Various inputs were investigated with regard to their ability to evoke the same cortical unit. Stimulation sites included: primary sensory receiving area (S1); ventrolateral nucleus of the thalamus (VL); center median (CM); red nucleus (RN); as well as pyramid and pes pedunculi. Following classification of units as pyramidal tract (Pt) neurons or, as units not identifiable as pyramidal tract (nPt) neurons, they were compared with regard to their response to stimulation at the sites listed above. In addition to Pt neurons, units were antidromically evoked by stimulation of S1, VL, and RN but not by stimulation of CM. The Pt and nPt neurons were observed to project to S1, but no Pt neuron projected to VL. Neurons with output to VL were not evoked by stimuuation of RN. The Pt neurons, orthodromically evoked by VL stimulation, did not respond, but some nPt neurons did respond to input from S1. The Pt neurons orthodromically evoked by single-pulse stimulation of CM were not evoked by stimulation of VL. Some convergence of synaptic input on Pt neurons from S1 and CM was observed. There was convergence of inputs from VL and CM on the majority of nPt neurons studied.