cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Symbrachydactyly — Diagnosis, Function, and Treatment

Symbrachydactyly is a congenital hand difference that presents with diverse morphologic forms and can be confused with many other congenital hand differences. Congenital hand difference classification schemes categorize symbrachydactyly as an undergrowth or failure of axis formation. It is further categorized by the number of affected fingers, by morphologic characteristics, and by the functional status of the hand. Symbrachydactyly represents a disruption of embryonic formation and differentiation that results in a hand shorter and smaller than the contralateral with underdeveloped often short or webbed digits, digital nubbins, or absent digits. Treatment is patient specific and should be guided to improve the function and appearance of the hand.
Flow cytometric quantification of cholesteryl ester-containing “foam” cells: II. Analysis of aortas from cholesterol-fed swine

Abstract We have examined foam cell accumulation in adbominal and thoracic aortic segments of swine with experimentally induced atherosclerosis. Young (
Swine pathogen transmission: Recognition, monitoring, and prevention

We evaluated 49 swine workers and 79 non-exposed controls for antibodies to swine influenza viruses. Multivariate modeling revealed that workers who seldom used gloves (OR=30.3) or who smoked (OR=18.7) were at highest risk of having evidence of previous H1N1 swine virus. These findings have value in pandemic influenza planning.
Dimensional roles of justice on post-recovery overall satisfaction and behavioral intentions: Tests of casual dining experiences

Abstract This study examined dimensional roles of justice on post-recovery overall satisfaction (OS), revisit intention (RI), and word-of-mouth intention (WOM). A 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design using experimental scenarios was used to test the proposed relationships. Responses from customers (286) and responses from undergraduate students (266) were used for data analysis. For the customer sample, interactional justice (IJ) and procedural justice (PJ) had positive effects on customer OS and WOM. Only IJ had a positive effect on RI. Distributive justice (DJ) did not have a positive effect on OS, RI, or WOM. For the student sample, IJ and DJ had positive effects on OS, RI, and WOM. However, PJ did not have a positive effect on OS, RI, or WOM. The findings indicate that service providers need to consider dimensional roles of recovery efforts not only in transactional evaluation but also in post-recovery attitudinal and behavioral outcomes. One dimension of justice, such as DJ, should not be highlighted at the co...
Studies on physiologic hyperbilirubinemia of Negro and white premature infants.

Serial determinations of the concentration of bilirubin in the plasma were obtained with 39 premature infants commencing with cord blood in 18 cases. The group consisted of 25 Negro infants and 14 white infants. Concentrations in the plasma were followed until the level fell below 2 mg/100 ml. The hyperbilirubinemia exhibited by these prematures appeared to be due to so-called "physiologic processes" as all procedures to establish other causes were uniformly negative. A definite inverse relationship between the degree of bilirubinemia and the maturity of the infant was shown in both white and Negro infants. Statistical significance was demonstrated when the mean peak concentrations of bilirubin in the plasma of the least mature infants were compared with those of the most mature infants, within each racial group. There was a statistically significant difference between the concentrations of bilirubin in the plasma reached in the two racial groups in the most immature infants. The concentrations were lower in the Negro group. A similar trend was present in the more mature infants, but this was not statistically significant. These findings agree with the fact that the Negro infant is a more mature baby than a white child of the same weight. They also lend support to the thesis that the degree of bilirubinemia is a reflection of the functional maturity of the infant. The possible causes of physiologic hyperbilirubinemia in full-term and premature infants were discussed. Several fields for experimental research are still unexplored. The role of the excretory capacity of the liver, particularly the functional activity of glucuronyl transferase, appears to be preeminent in the etiology of neonatal bilirubinemia. The sudden changes in the dynamics of hepatic blood flow which occur at birth may account, in part at least, for the hepatic immaturity. That the premature infant can develop kernicterus in the presence of hyperbilirubinemia without evidence of isoimmunization is becoming more generally accepted. The incidence of kernicterus in this hospital and in this study is quite low. The possible role of racial groups and administration of vitamin K in this regard was discussed. The bulk of the evidence indicates that premature infants exhibit jaundice and hyperbilirubinemia more frequently and to a greater degree than is reported in full-term infants. The duration of this hyperbilirubinemia is related to fetal maturity, persisting longer in the most immature infants. Because of the variability of concentrations of bilirubin in the plasma of premature infants, and because of the multitude of factors that play a possible role in determining the ultimate concentration of bilirubin, routine exchange transfusion for elevated concentrations of bilirubin does not seem warranted. The critical level over which exchange transfusion should be done cannot be stated on the basis of any available data.
Effect of Change in Portal Venous Blood Flow Rates on the Performance of a 2.45-GHz Microwave Ablation Device.

We have shown that the size and shape of coagulation created by a 2.45-GHz microwave ablation device is not significantly affected by physiological fluctuations in portal venous flow rates.
Younger and Older Adults' Opinions on Driver Distractions and Potential Cellular Phone Laws

Younger and older adults were asked their opinions about driving while using a cellphone and the inevitable distractions that occur in such situations. Participants were also asked for their thoughts on hypothetical laws being introduced that would ban cell phone use during driving. Older adults were much more likely to feel that any possible distractions are potentially hazardous compared to young adults, and more likely to report that cell phone benefits do not outweigh their disadvantages. In general, older adults seem more cautious about the impact that cell phone technology has on driving, are more apt to realize the consequences of such behavior as compared to younger adults, and also tend to support stricter driving and distraction laws.
Assessment of glycoprotein interactions with 4-[(2-aminoethyl)carbamoyl]phenylboronic acid surfaces using surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy.

Reported here are analyses of the interactions between a select group of solution-phase glycoproteins and a unique boronic acid capture surface. The boronic acid derivative, 4-[(2-aminoethyl)carbamoyl]phenylboronic acid, AECPBA, was synthesized and then immobilized on carboxymethyl dextran surfaces using simple coupling methods. From surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy responses, it is found that model glycoproteins interact strongly with the AECPBA surface and subsequently can be readily released from the AECPBA surface using borate buffer. A striking difference between the glycoproteins fetuin and asialofetuin (desialylated fetuin), in terms of glycoprotein binding to the AECPBA surface, indicates that the interaction of glycoproteins with the immobilized AECPBA is dictated by the terminal saccharide of the heteroglycan chain. Surprisingly, secondary interactions of glycosylated and nonglycosylated proteins with the carboxymethyl dextran hydrogel matrix are observed. Importantly, it is demonstrated t...
Palaeoclimate: Weathering away warmth

At the end of the Eocene epoch, permanent ice cover developed over Antarctica as the Earth began to cool from greenhouse warmth. Sediment records off the Antarctic coast show spikes in weathering rate at the onset of ice growth that may indicate synchronous consumption of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Considering Task Force Requirements for Hand Posture Predictions

This work is concerned with how finger, wrist, elbow and shoulder postures are affected depending the orientation and magnitude of hand force exerted. Six participants, 3 females and 3 males from the ages of 18-25, where asked to perform three exertions (100%, 30% and 10% MVC) perpendicular to an aluminum plate in 45°, 0°, 45° and 90° pitch at elbow height. Exertions were performed using the whole hand and the fingertips. We recorded inter-digit joint angles as force is applied to compute joint moments, and hand and finger motions so that they can be modeled and mapped for each condition. Results show that posture changes depending the force exerted and the threshold for significant changes is at force levels below 50%MVC. Comparing exertions over 50%MVC with exertions of 50%MVC or lower, elbow and wrist angles were significantly greater, and forearm was more perpendicular to the surface. Distance between hand and shoulder increases by decreasing the required %MVC. At 0° pitch males exerted all the requir...
Clay‐mineral contribution to the weathering mechanisms in two contrasting watersheds

SUMMARY Two mountain watersheds in eastern USA showed sensitivity of their bedrock type to acidification from changes in atmospheric input: they were a Catoctin Mountain watershed on Precambrian metabasalt, and a Massanutten Mountain watershed developed on Silurian metaquartzites and shales. The role of clay minerals to neutralize potential increases in acid deposition was examined. Landscape position and drainage characteristics influence the clay mineral suites present at Catoctin, and an expandable clay component enables this watershed to adequately buffer the hydrochemical systems. A 14 A hydroxy-interlayer vermiculite provided a sink for A13+, and also a possible neutralizing effect in the second watershed which was highly sensitive to acid deposition.
The pattern of Ni and Co abundances in lunar olivines

Abstract Near liquidus experiments on peridotite and other olivine normative compositions from 1.7 to 6 GPa confirm the applicability of exchange-based empirical models of Ni and Co partitioning between olivine and silicate liquids with compositions close to the liquidus of peridotite. Given that most estimates of lunar bulk composition are peridotitic, the partitioning models thus lend themselves to calculation of olivine compositions produced during the early stages of magma ocean crystallization. Calculation of olivine compositions produced by fractional crystallization of a model lunar magma ocean, initially 700 km deep, reveals a prominent maximum in Ni concentration versus fraction crystallized or Mg’ (molar MgO/(MgO + FeO)), but a pattern of monotonically increasing Co concentration. These patterns qualitatively match the puzzling patterns of Ni and Co concentrations observed in lunar rocks in which forsteritic olivines in magnesian suite cumulates have lower Ni and Co abundances than do less magnesian olivines from low-Ti mare basalts, and olivines from the ferroan anorthosite suite (FAS) have lower Ni, but similar Co to mare basalt olivines. The Ni and Co abundances in olivines from the magnesian suite cumulates can be reconciled in terms of fractional crystallization of a deep magma ocean which initially produces a basal dunite comprised of the hottest and most magnesian olivine overlain by an olivine-orthopyroxene (harzburgite) layer that is in turn overlain by an upper zone of plagioclase-bearing cumulates. The ultramafic portion of the cumulate pile overturns sending the denser harzburgite layer, which later becomes a portion of the green glass source region, to the bottom of the cumulate pile with Ni- and Co-rich olivine. Meanwhile, the less dense, but hottest, most magnesian olivines with much lower Ni and Co abundances are transported upward to the base of the plagioclase-bearing cumulates where subsequent heat transfer leads to melting of mixtures of primary dunite, norite, and gabbronorite with KREEP (a K–REE–P enriched component widely believed to be derived from the very latest stage magma ocean liquid). These hybrid melts have Al 2 O 3 , Ni, and Co abundances and Mg’ appropriate for parent magmas of the magnesian suite. Ni and Co abundances in the FAS are consistent with either direct crystallization from the magma ocean or crystallization of melts of primary dunite–norite mixtures without KREEP.
Spin canting in RbCo Cl 3 ·2 H 2 O, a Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya linear chain magnet

Heat-capacity and magnetic-susceptibility measurements at low temperatures on single crystals of RbCo${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$\ifmmode\cdot\else\textperiodcentered\fi{}2${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O are described here which indicate that this material is the first reported example of a magnet which can be formally described as having a primarily one-dimensional Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya-like character. Although the compound is not isomorphic to its Cs analog, there are some similarities in their magnetic behavior. Specifically, RbCo${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$\ifmmode\cdot\else\textperiodcentered\fi{}2${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O magnetically orders at ${T}_{N}=2.94\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01$ K and displays spin canting with an unusual amount of anisotropy observed in the single-crystal paramagnetic susceptibilities. The data have been fit using a linear-chain model in which the symmetric part of the intrachain spin-spin interaction is relatively small compared to the Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya antisymmetric contribution. Although the model does not result in unique predictions for the exchange parameters, the present data can be described with symmetric and antisymmetric exchange parameters of $\frac{J}{k}=0$ and $|\frac{D}{k}|=59$ K, respectively. The spectroscopic splitting parameters of ${g}_{a}=4.12$ and ${g}_{{c}^{\ensuremath{'}}}=5.2$ have also been determined from the fits. The results are consistent with the presence of only two sublattices which are severely canted with respect to each other. The spins apparently lie in the $b{c}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ plane and the angle between the sublattices approaches 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}.
On radiating baroclinic instability of zonally varying flow

The baroclinic instability characteristics of zonally varying flow are examined in a quasigeostrophic, two-layer, beta-plane model. The most unstable eigenmode is determined numerically by solving a one-dimensional initial value problem. Emphasis is placed on determining how the basic state vertically averaged wind, U B , local maximum in vertical wind shear, Δ U T , and length of the locally unstable region, λ L , combine to yield local instabilities whose energy fluxes radiate deep into the locally neutral far field. The existence of such zonally radiating instabilities (RIs), which represent a transition between trapped and global instabilities, requires that λ L not exceed some critical value and that Δ U T / U B lie within a certain range. In sharp contrast to the trapped and global instabilities, the RIs have horizontal wavelengths that increase dramatically with distance from the locally unstable region. If λ L and Δ U T / U B are both sufficiently small, the local instability that emerges is characterized by a vertical asymmetry in its horizontal spatial structure; the disturbance in the upper layer has a longer zonal wavelength than its counterpart in the lower layer. For slowly varying basic states, analysis of the local disturbance energetics reveals that the baroclinic energy conversion predominates within the locally unstable region. For basic states that vary rapidly in the downstream direction, the barotropic energy conversion associated with the horizontal deformation field may predominate over the baroclinic conversion depending on the relative importance of Δ U T and U B . For RIs, the energy budget outside the locally unstable region is primarily due to the advection of total energy and the convergence of mechanical energy flux. Calculations of the basic state tendencies show that the net effect of the local (trapped or radiating) instabilities is to redistribute energy from the baroclinic to the barotropic component of the basic state flow. The fluxes produced by the trapped modes reduce the vertical shear downstream of the jet center, while the fluxes produced by the radiating modes reduce the vertical shear both downstream and near the jet center. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0870.1993.00005.x
Judgments of a Child Involved in Accidental Damage and Responding Differentially to Adult Reprimand

72 first-grade and 72 sixth-grade boys viewed scenes showing a boy involved in accidental damage, then receiving and responding differentially to adult reprimand. Children, having viewed one of the films, recorded their attribution of goodness-badness and also predicted the potential good-bad conduct of the transgressor. Analyses support conclusions, consistent with Piaget's moral judgment theory, that (a) young children perceive an accidental transgressor more negatively than do older children; and (b) young children evaluate responses to reprimand in terms of whether they conform to adult command, whereas older children evaluate those responses in accordance with whether they are congruent with the principle of mutual respect. Piaget's theory requires reconsideration in light of the finding that older children predicted a preponderance of good behaviors for the boy who was shown responding in a manner that can be taken as a violation of the principle of mutual trust.
Bound exciton lifetimes for acceptors in Si

Abstract We present measurements of the bound exciton lifetimes for the four common acceptors in Si and for the first two bound multiple exciton complexes in Si:Ga and Si:Al. We present a calculation of the Auger transition rate for the acceptor bound excitons in Si which accounts for the observed lifetimes and their dependence on the acceptor type.
Lerner symmetry and trilateral relations in international monetary economics

Abstract The classical Lerner symmetry theorem concerning the equivalence of import and export tariffs is extended to a monetary economy under flexible exchange rates. Under fixed exchange rates, this should be replaced by the trilateral-relation theorem. The Meade theorem is also extended.
Cleavage patterns and the topology of the metazoan tree of life

Several major alliances of metazoan phyla have been identified by small subunit rRNA sequence comparisons. It is possible to arrange the phyla to produce a parsimonious distribution of cleavage types, requiring only one change from a radial ancestral condition to spiral cleavage and one other to “idiosyncratic” cleavage; this arrangement is consistent with most of the recent molecular phylogenies. The cleavage shifts are correlated with changes in many of the features that once were used to distinguish Protostomia and Deuterostomia. It is hypothesized that changes in cleavage direction are causally associated with changes in blastomere fates and thus that cleavage type correlates with such features as the identity of mesoderm founder cells, which in turn can constrain the mode of origination of the eucelom. Cleavage changes may also affect the timing of cell fate specification. In a tree that emphasizes cleavage parsimony, radial cleavage, regulative development, and enterocely are ancestral within the Bilateria, and spiral or idiosyncratic cleavages, mosaic development, and schizocely are associated with a change in cleavage direction. Deuterostomy is presumably ancestral and is correlated with radial cleavage for this reason, rather than mechanistically.
Negotiating the people’s capital

[Editor’s Note: What follows is the second part of an unofficial transcript of an off-the-record conversation among three of the labor movement’s leading strategists. (The first installment appeared under the title “Strategy for Labor, ” in the Summer 2001 issue of the Journal of Labor Research). This second meeting was also convened by C, or “cooperationist,” who had been for over 10 years the president of a local union, part of a major industrial union, representing 3,000 employees who had been hired to staff a new manufacturing plant in a Southern town (“Newplant”). Newplant had been widely touted as a breakthrough in U.S. labor-management relations because it was consciously designed to promote greater participation of production and maintenance workers in business and a “co-management” role for union officials alongside traditional management officials. In bitterly contested local elections last year, C was votedout of office and now serves in a staff capacity at the AFL-C10. A, or “adversarialist, ” perhaps surprisingly a longstanding friend of C, is the research director of another industrial union. A was very active in the Students for a Democratic Society in the 1960s, and after graduating from Oberlin College began his career as a labor organizer, working for a succession of unions that had been active in the McGovern wing of the Democratic Party. S, or “stay the course,” is the highly respected chief of staff for a national union representing government workers. Section headings and parenthetical references are supplied by the editor and do not appear in the original transcript.]
Simulation of Thermal and Mechanical Response of (Zr,W)B₂ Ceramic after Oxidation

This study relates to a micromechanics based finite element model of the effect of oxidation on heat transfer and mechanical behavior of a (Zr,W)B2 ceramic at high temperature. An adaptive remeshing technique is employed in both heat transfer and thermal stress analysis models. A global-local modeling technique is used to combine finite elements with infinite elements for thermal stress analysis. Temperature and thermal stress distributions in the ceramic and the oxides are presented.
On the Relationship between Science and Ethics

Abstract. The relationship between ethics and science has been discussed within the framework of continuity versus discontinuity theories, each of which can take several forms. Continuity theorists claim that ethics is a science or at least that it has deep similarities with the modus operandi of science. Discontinuity theorists reject such equivalency, while at the same time many of them claim that ethics does deal with objective truths and universalizable statements, just not in the same sense as science does. I propose here a third view of quasi-continuity (or, equivalently, quasi-discontinuity) that integrates ethics and science as equal partners toward the uncovering of new knowledge. In this third way, a program envisioned by William James but made practicable only by contemporary scientific advancement, science can and must inform ethics at a deep level, and ethical theory— while going beyond science—cannot do without it. In particular, I identify four areas of ethics-science collaboration: neurobiological research into the basis of moral judgment, comparative anthropology, comparative evolutionary biology of primates, and game-theoretical modeling. I provide examples within each of these fields to show how they link to ethical theories (including prescriptive work) and questions. The essay concludes with a brief discussion of the light that a scientifically informed ethics can shed on some classical problems in moral theory, such as the relationships between rationality and selfishness, egoism and altruism, as well as the concept of social contract. A joint research program involving both philosophers and scientists is called for if we wish to move ethical theory into the twenty-first century.
Tag loss problems with Giant tortoises, Geochelone gigantea (Schweigger), on Aldabra

The effectiveness of a ‘permanent’ marking technique developed for Giant Aldabra tortoises in 1969 is assessed. Eleven to 16 years after tagging, 59% of the marked tortoises on the west and south coasts of the Atoll had lost their tags. Half-life of the tag is estimated to be less than 10 years and, hence, unacceptable given the long time for maturity and long life span of the Giant tortoise. A modification of the tagging technique is required.
Reduced Microstructure Adhesion Provided by Gas-Expanded Liquid Deposited Gold Nanoparticles

In order to alleviate or eliminate the occurrence of stiction during the actuation of microstructures, the real contact area available for contact must be reduced. Au nanoparticles were intentionally deposited using gas-expanded liquids onto polysilicon cantilever beam arrays to increase surface roughness. The nanoparticle-coated beams were subjected to an actuation voltage of 120 V. Following actuation, the adhesion of beams was quantified by estimating the apparent work of adhesion. Au nanoparticles deposited onto these microstructures were shown to drastically reduce the effects of in-use stiction. Capillary adhesion due to condensation of ambient moisture was effectively eliminated.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
A Note on an Estimator for the Variance That Utilizes the Kurtosis

Abstract An estimator (S W 2) for the variance is developed by minimizing the mean squared error (MSE) using a generalized weight for the sum of squares instead of 1/(n − 1). The optimal divisor found is (n + 1) + (α4 − 3) (n 1 1)/n, where α4 is the kurtosis. For the normal distribution (α4 = 3), the divisor becomes n + 1. Generally, for kurtosis greater than 3 the divisor will be greater than n + 1 and for kurtosis less than 3 the divisor will be less than n + 1. Using n + 1 as a divisor will result in a smaller MSE for distributions with α4 > 3.
Fitting the Body to the Mind : Cognitive Tasks and Somatic Tools

Human action is both intentional, directed toward goals, and it is subject to criteria of right and wrong. The problem of a simulation of intentionality has been much discussed but the issue of normativity has attracted less attention. It can be approached through the question of the relation between simulations of rule-following and how normatively constrained actions are performed in concrete situations. Writing out explicit rules can express the norms of an activity. Skills express norms from the point of view of action. There are three kinds of regularities in behavior: causal responses, monitored actions, and habits. Habits embody implicit rules. There are good and bad habits implemented by the neural mechanisms produced by programming a machine. But they also embedded in normative constraints of institutional or social orders extrinsic to the action and its foundations in the “innards” of organism or machine. Extrinsic norms are never complete, or completable. New situations call for new normative decisions. The Turing Test is limited, in that successfully passing it can never resolve the question of the normativity of a simulated action pattern.
Geographic variation in the pattern of temperature-dependent sex determination in the American snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

Sex ratios of the American snapping turtleChelydraserpentina are female-biased at cool temperatures, male-biased at moderate temperatures, and only females are produced at warm temperatures. The laboratory incubation of eggs at several constant temperatures yields patterns of skewed sex ratios. In this study, incubated eggs represented regional samples of C. serpentina from six different latitudes. The sample from the highest latitude yielded malebiased sex ratios across the broadest range of cool temperatures. This male-biased zone and those of the other five samples collectively contributed to a nested arrangement that is approximately symmetrical around a temperature of 24.5 ◦ C. Two indices of temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) patterns (MF pivotal temperature, width of the male-biased zone) were significantly associated with latitude and with published data on several climatic variables (e.g. sunshine and rainfall). At high latitudes, females nest in exposed locations, locally the warmest places. At low latitudes females place their nests in shaded locations. Such nest site selection renders high latitude nests warmer than low latitude nests, even if only intermittently. Given that constant conditions show faster embryogenesis in high vs low latitude eggs, exposed nest sites seem to be an additional adaptation to hasten embryogenesis in high latitude nests. At low latitudes, shading prevents nests from overheating. We propose that a trade-off between evolution, (1) to balance sex ratio and (2) to maintain male-biased sex ratios in a temperature range that favours male fitness, leads to the observed arrangement of concentric TSD patterns centred around male production at 24.5 ◦ C.
Measuring Fiscal Vulnerability and Fiscal Stress: A Proposed Set of Indicators

This paper proposes a set of fiscal indicators to assess rollover risks using the conceptual framework developed by Cottarelli (2011). These indicators provide early warning signals about the manifestation of these risks, giving policymakers the opportunity to adjust policies before extreme fiscal stress events. Two aggregate indices are calculated: an index of fiscal vulnerability and an index of fiscal stress. Results show that both indices are elevated for advanced economies, reflecting unfavorable medium-term debt dynamics and aging-related spending pressures. In emerging economies, solvency risks are lower, but the composition of public debt remains a source of risk and the fiscal position is weaker than before the crisis.
Efficacy and mechanisms of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy in promoting wound healing: a rodent model

Summary Background The vacuum-assisted closure device (VAC) has revolutionised wound care, although molecular mechanisms are not well understood. We hypothesise that the VAC device induces production of pro-angiogenic factors and promotes formation of granulation tissue and healing. Methods A novel rodent model of VAC wound healing was established. Excisional wounds were created on rat dorsa. Wounds were dressed with Tegaderm (control group), VAC Granulofoam ® and Tegaderm (special control group), or VAC Granulofoam ® , T.R.A.C. PAD ® with 125mmHg continuous negative pressure (VAC group). Wound closure rates were calculated as a percentage of initial wound sizes. Rats were sacrificed on postoperative days 3, 5 and 7; harvested tissues were processed for histology [haematoxylin & eosin (HE day 5, 45.3% (VAC) vs 23.7% (control) and 22.5% (special control) (ANOVA, P =0.0003); day 7, 54.4% (VAC) vs 43.0% (control) and 31.5% (special control) (ANOVA; P Conclusion A small animal VAC wound model was established. Wounds treated with a VAC device showed accelerated wound closure rates, increased pro-angiogenic growth factor production and improved collagen deposition. Further application of this model may elucidate other mechanisms.
Uniform Bounds for Sampling Expansions

Letf?B2?, i.e.,f?L2(R) and its Fourier transformF(s)=?Rf(t)e?2?istdtvanishes outside of ??, ?], then the Shannon sampling theorem says thatfcan be reconstructed by its infinitely many sampling points at {k/(2?)},k?Z, i.e.,f(t)=?k=?∞∞fk2?sin?(2?t?k)?(2?t?k),?t?R.But, in practice, only finitely many samples are available, so one would like to study the truncation errorTN(t)=f(t)??k=?NNfk2?sinc(2?t?k),?f?B2?.The error bounds commonly seen in literature are not uniform. In this paper, the author gives uniform bounds for the truncation error forf?B2?, when its Fourier transform satisfies some smooth conditions.
A comparison of echocardiography and pulmonary artery catheterization for evaluation of pulmonary artery pressures in pregnant patients with suspected pulmonary hypertension

Abstract Objective: This study was undertaken to compare the accuracy of echocardiography versus pulmonary artery catheterization to estimate pulmonary artery pressures in pregnant women with suspected pulmonary hypertension. Study Design: A retrospective chart review was performed between January 1990 and February 2000 for all pregnant patients with cardiac disease. Patients with pulmonary artery pressure values estimated by cardiac catheterization and echocardiography during pregnancy were included. Pulmonary hypertension is defined as pulmonary artery systolic pressure >30 mm Hg. Results: Twenty-seven patients were included in the study. There was a significant overestimation of the mean pulmonary artery pressure with echocardiography compared with catheterization (55.4 vs 51.1 mm Hg; P P Conclusion: Echocardiography significantly overestimated pulmonary artery pressures compared with catheterization in pregnant patients with suspected pulmonary hypertension. Patients with structural cardiac defects appear to have a significantly greater difference in pulmonary artery pressures. Thirty-two percent of pregnant patients with normal pulmonary artery pressures may be misclassified as having pulmonary artery hypertension when measured by echocardiography alone. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:1568-70.)
Energetic problems of extremely alkaliphilic aerobes

Over a decade of work on extremely alkaliphilic Bacillus species has clarified the extraordinary capacity that these bacteria have for regulating their cytoplasmic pH during growth at pH values well over 10. However, a variety of interesting energetic problems related to their Na+-dependent pH homeostatic mechanism are yet to be solved. They include: (1) the clarification of how cell surface layers play a role in a category of alkaliphiles for which this is the case; (2) identification of the putative, electrogenic Na+/H+ antiporter(s) that, in at least some alkaliphiles, may completely account for a cytoplasmic pH that is over 2 pH units lower than the external pH; (3) the determination of whether specific modules or accessory proteins are essential for the efficacy of such antiporters; (4) the mechanistic basis for the increase in the transmembrane electrical potential at the high external pH values at which the potential-consuming antiporter(s) must be most active; and (5) an explanation for the Na+-specificity of pH homeostasis in the extremely alkaliphilic bacilli as opposed to the almost equivalent efficacy of K+ for pH homeostasis in at least some non-alkaliphilic aerobes. The current status of such studies and future strategies will be outlined for this central area of alkaliphile energetics. Also considered, will be strategies to elucidate the basis for robust H+-coupled oxidative phosphorylation by alkaliphiles at pH values over 10. The maintenance of a cytoplasmic pH over 2 units below the high external pH results in a low bulk electrochemical proton gradient (Δp). To bypass this low Δp, Na+-coupling is used for solute uptake even by alkaliphiles that are mesophiles from environments that are not especially Na+-rich. This indicates that these bacteria indeed experience a low Δp, to which such coupling is an adaptation. Possible reasons and mechanisms for using a H+-coupled rather than a Na+-coupled ATP synthase under such circumstances will be discussed.
A pilot study examining short-term changes in bone mineral density among class 3 obese users of depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate.

ABSTRACTObjective To examine changes in lumbar spine-bone mineral density (LS-BMD) among normal weight (body mass index [BMI] = 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), Class 1–2 obese (BMI = 30–39.9 kg/m2), and Class 3 obese (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) women utilising depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA).Methods Five normal-weight, five Class 1–2 obese, and five Class 3 obese women received subcutaneous injections of DMPA-SC at baseline and 12 weeks later. Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans were performed at baseline and 18 weeks after the first injection for determination of LS-BMD and analysis of fat content. Bimonthly oestradiol (E2) levels were measured by immunoassay methods for 26 weeks.Results There were no significant demographic or LS-BMD differences among the three BMI groups. Significant differences at baseline were as expected among the three groups with respect to BMI and associated parameters (mean % total body fat, absolute fat, and weight). When used as their own controls, significant changes in LS-BMD, % b...
In search of diversity: the record of major marketing journals

The authors analyze the publications of four major marketing journals on the basis of their diversity relative to each other, against their mission statements, and over time. One important finding ...
Optimal excess noise reduction in thin heterojunction Al/sub 0.6/Ga/sub 0.4/As-GaAs avalanche photodiodes

It has been recently found that the initial-energy effect, which is associated with the finite initial energy of carriers entering the multiplication region of an avalanche photodiode (APD), can be tailored to reduce the excess noise well beyond the previously known limits for thin APDs. However, the control of the initial energy of injected carriers can be difficult in practice for an APD with a single multiplication layer. In this paper, the dead-space multiplication recurrence theory is used to show that the low noise characteristics associated with the initial-energy effect can be achieved by utilizing a two-layer multiplication region. As an example, a high bandgap Al/sub 0.6/Ga/sub 0.4/As material, termed the energy-buildup layer, is used to elevate the energy of injected carriers without incurring significant multiplication events, while a second GaAs layer with a lower bandgap energy is used as the primary carrier multiplication layer. Computations show that devices can be optimally designed through judicious choice of the charge-layer width to produce excess noise factor levels that are comparable to those corresponding to homojunction APDs benefiting from a maximal initial-energy effect. A structure is presented to achieve precisely that.
Selectivity of angiotensin II antisera

A significant problem in the immunoassay of angiotensin II is the cross-reactivity of most available antisera with the peptide's metabolic products, (des-Asp1)-angiotensin II and (des-Asp1, Arg2)-angiotensin II. In order to attempt to generate antisera of greater selectivity, a variety of conjugates between angiotensin II or derivative peptides and carrier proteins were examined as immunogens with the aim of generating antisera that would selectively identify the amino terminal region of the peptide. Selectivity for the amino terminus was achieved by either (1) immunization with N-acetylated angiotensin II-amide which had been coupled to rabbit serum albumin by its carboxy terminus, or (2) immunization with angiotensin-(1–7)-heptapeptide which was randomly coupled to thyroglobulin. The antisera produced with the N-acetylated immunogen cross-reacted with the unacetylated ligand (Asn1-Val5)-angiotensin, but did not recognize the human hormone (Asp1,Ile5)-angiotensin. Carboxy-terminal coupling of angiotensin without N-acetylation did not induce selectivity for the amino terminus, nor did a conjugate which was linked to the carrier protein via a diazo bond to His6 of the peptide. These findings may be explained by the fact that N-acetylated angiotensin II resists degradation by amino peptidases and thus retains its structure in the immunogen and by the fact that the (1–7)-heptapeptide has lost the immunodominant carboxy-terminal epitope, thus emphasizing the desired amino terminal determinant.
Bottom-current erosion along a traverse in the South Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean

Abstract The magnetostratigraphy and biostratigraphy of twenty-five piston cores on a profile from Antarctica to the Cape Basin south of Africa reveal disconformities in the sedimentary record which are attributed to bottom-current erosion. Increased Antarctic Bottom Water production removed all sediment in the Weddell and Cape Basins younger than middle Pliocene (2.5 m.y.) with Miocene sediment exposed at or near the seafloor at some locations. Increases in the velocity of the Circumpolar Deep Water eroded lower Pliocene to upper Pliocene (4.0–2.0 m.y.) sediment on the crest and south flank of the Atlantic-Indian Ridge and maintains an active scour zone today with middle Pleistocene (1.0 m.y.) sediment exposed at the seafloor.
Inhibition of Mitochondrial Respiration by a para-Quinone Methide

A relatively stable para quinone methide was prepared from 4-allyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol. In aqueous solution the quinone methide had a half-life of 52 min, yet reacted rapidly with thiols such as glutathione or cysteine. The unusual stability of this quinone methide allowed us to directly test its effects on mitochondrial respiration. The quinone methide was a potent inhibitor of succinate-dependent mitochondrial respiration (IC50 = 47 μM). The inhibition appeared to be due to the depletion of protein thiols, since its effects were comparable to 5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB, Ellman′s reagent). This quinone methide may prove a useful tool in the investigation of the specific effects of quinone methides on cells which lead to cytotoxicity.
Synthesis and characterization of long chain alkyl stationary phases on a silica hydride surface

C22 and C30 alkyl chains were attached to a silica hydride surface by a hydrosolation reaction. In each case both moieties were successfully bonded by either metal complex catalysis or free radical initiation. Carbon analysis, DRIFT spectra and13C CP-MAS NMR spectra confirm the bonding of the olefin to silica hydride. Conditions for maximum coverage were determined by a simplex procedure. Chromatographic evaluation of these long chain bonded phases was accomplished by separations of several types of mixtures: alkyl substituted benzenes; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; carotenoids, tocopherols; tricyclic antidepressants; and peptides. The C30 column proved significantly better for separating the carotenoid and antidepressant mixtures and somewhat better for the peptide sample.
Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: comparison of the proposed UCSF criteria with the Milan criteria and the Pittsburgh modified TNM criteria.

We previously proposed modified staging criteria for predicting acceptable outcome after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These were solitary tumor 3 cm), the UCSF criteria, and the Pittsburgh modified tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) criteria. Pathologic HCC staging according to each set of criteria was performed in 70 patients. The difference in survival when comparing 24 patients with HCC exceeding Milan criteria versus 46 patients meeting Milan criteria did not reach statistical significance (HR, 2.0; P = .12). Using our definition for acceptable 2-year survival to be > or = 70%, the 14 patients (20%) meeting UCSF criteria but exceeding Milan criteria had a 2-year survival of 86% (95% CI, 54% to 96%). Survival for Pittsburgh stage I, II, and IIIA patients as a group was significantly better than for stages IIIB and IVA patients combined (HR, 4.2; P = .007), and similar to survival for patients meeting UCSF criteria. Advanced tumor exceeding UCSF criteria served reasonably well as a surrogate marker for poorly differentiated grade and microvascular invasion. In conclusion, our analyses suggest that UCSF criteria better predict acceptable posttransplant outcome than Milan criteria. UCSF criteria confer a different advantage over Pittsburgh criteria, which require information on microvascular invasion that is difficult to ascertain preoperatively without the attendant risk of biopsy.
Impact of Prenatal Cocaine Exposure on Child Behavior Problems Through School Age

OBJECTIVE. We examined the trajectory of childhood behavior problems after prenatal cocaine exposure. METHODS. The Maternal Lifestyle Study, a longitudinal cohort study, enrolled children between 1993 and 1995 at 4 centers. Prenatal cocaine exposure was determined from mothers who admitted use and/or meconium results. Exposed children were matched with a group of nonexposed children within site and by gestational age, gender, race, and ethnicity. The study began at the 1-month corrected age with a total of 1388 children enrolled. A total of 1056 were assessed for internalizing, externalizing, and total behavior problems at ages 3, 5, and 7 years using the Child Behavior Checklist. Longitudinal hierarchical linear models were used to determine the effect of prenatal cocaine exposure on behavior problem trajectories while controlling for other prenatal exposures; time-varying covariates, including ongoing caregiver use of legal and illegal substances; demographic factors; family violence; and caregiver psychological distress. RESULTS. High prenatal cocaine exposure was associated with the trajectory of internalizing, externalizing, and total behavior problems; these effects were independent of and less than the significant combined effect of prenatal and postnatal tobacco and alcohol exposures. Caregiver depression and family violence had independent negative influence on all behavior outcomes. CONCLUSIONS. Prenatal cocaine exposure has a negative impact on the trajectories of childhood behavior outcomes. When they co-occur with prenatal cocaine exposure, prenatal and postnatal tobacco and alcohol exposures have added negative effects on behavior outcomes.
Search for Long-Lived Penetrating Neutral Particles

We report on a search for decays of long-lived penetrating neutral particles in the neutrino beam at Fermilab. We find an event rate consistent with background which corresponds to a fraction (7\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}5)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ of ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}({\overline{\ensuremath{\nu}}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}})$ scattering in liquid scintillator. This result poses an apparent contradiction to the observations of Krishnaswamy et al. in the Kolar Gold Mines.
Born too soon: what can we expect? Nature of home literacy experiences for children with very low birth weight

This study documents the home literacy experiences of children born with very low birth weight (VLBW). The study’s design was modelled after Purcell‐Gates’ study of social domains mediated by print as home literacy experiences. A design combining purposeful sampling, semi‐structured data collection and descriptive case study analysis was employed to create a comprehensive picture of the qualitative indices that document home literacy experiences of VLBW children. Results suggest complex interrelationships between literacy practices and social–emotional factors associated with having a VLBW child. Specifically, these results indicate that increased stress associated with having a child with low birth weight may lead to lower frequencies and variations of home literacy practices. Furthermore, results suggest that stress in the home associated with medical fragility may contribute to low academic outcomes for children with VLBW.
Predictions of multiple K- and L-shell ionization by alpha-particle impact on atoms with Z = 10 to 100

Abstract The peaked binary-encounter approximation is used to compute cross sections for removing one or more electrons from K- and L-shells of atomic targets with Z = 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 60, 80 and 100 by bombardment with alpha particles. The cross sections, σ1K, nL and σ2K, nL, are plotted over a range of alpha energies in the MeV region near the peaks of these cross sections. The relative magnitudes of the σ1K, nL and σ2K, nL cross sections are similar. Estimates of multiple-ionization cross sections for other projectiles may be determined in some instances by means of the z2 scaling law for the ionization probability.