cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cortical pitch response components show differential sensitivity to native and nonnative pitch contours

The aim of this study is to evaluate how nonspeech pitch contours of varying shape influence latency and amplitude of cortical pitch-specific response (CPR) components differentially as a function of language experience. Stimuli included time-varying, high rising Mandarin Tone 2 (T2) and linear rising ramp (Linear), and steady-state (Flat). Both the latency and magnitude of CPR components were differentially modulated by (i) the overall trajectory of pitch contours (time-varying vs. steady-state), (ii) their pitch acceleration rates (changing vs. constant), and (iii) their linguistic status (lexical vs. non-lexical). T2 elicited larger amplitude than Linear in both language groups, but size of the effect was larger in Chinese than English. The magnitude of CPR components elicited by T2 were larger for Chinese than English at the right temporal electrode site. Using the CPR, we provide evidence in support of experience-dependent modulation of dynamic pitch contours at an early stage of sensory processing.
Inoculum sources of Botryosphaeriaceae species in New Zealand grapevine nurseries

This study investigated the sources of inoculum of Botyosphaeriaceae species in three commercial grapevine nurseries in New Zealand. Botryosphaeriaceae propagules were detected on the surfaces of 33 to 100 % of canes and 33 % of dead grapevine materials using microscopy, plating assays and PCR with Botryosphaeriaceae multi-species primers (Bot100F/Bot472R). Isolations also showed that 15 to 68 % of the canes were internally infected by Botryosphaeriaceae species, with Neofusicoccum luteum and N. parvum being the most predominant species. Incidence varied between nurseries, with Nursery 5 having highest N. luteum incidence (53 %) and Nursery 3 having highest N. parvum incidence (88 %). Botryosphaeriaceae DNA was detected in rain-water run-off from the mother-vine canopy, but not in soil samples collected around infected mother-vines. However, samples from the nursery propagation stages had no visible or viable Botryosphaeriaceae propagules although PCR using multi-species primers detected Botryosphaeriaceae DNA from wash and hydration tanks, on grafting tools and in callusing media from the different nurseries. The single-stranded conformational polymorphism (SSCP) was able to identify N. parvum, N. luteum and Diplodia mutila as the most common species present in the nursery system. Overall results indicated that the canes grown in mother-vine blocks were the most likely source of inoculum for infection of young grafted plants by Botryosphaeriaceae species.
Current concepts in the management of adrenal incidentalomas

Adrenal tumors are among the commonest incidental findings discovered. The increased incidence of diagnosing adrenal incidentalomas is due to the widespread availability and use of noninvasive imaging studies. Extensive research has been conducted to define a cost-effective diagnostic and therapeutic protocol to guide physicians in managing incidental adrenal lesions. However, there is little consensus on the optimal management strategy. Published literature to date, describes a wide spectrum of treatment options ranging from excision of all adrenal lesions regardless of the size and functional status to extensive hormonal and radiological evaluation to avoid surgery. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the presentation, evaluation and management of adrenal incidentalomas. Additionally, we propose a management algorithm to optimally manage these tumors.
Intraarterial cushions of the rat uterine artery: a scanning electron microscope evaluation utilizing vascular casts.

The intraarterial cushions present in the rat at the points of branching of the main uterine artery have been studied by means of scanning electron microscopy. Such studies confirmed the three-dimensional concept of these structures gained from previous light microscopic serial section reconstructions as incomplete, raised, asymmetric ridges which encompass the branch orifice. The examination of methacrylate corrosion casts of the uterine vasculature with the scanning electron microscope provided a means for evaluating the relative protrusion or retraction of the cushion structures within the vessel lumen, and thus for assessing their role in regulating uterine blood flow in various physiologic states. Cushions were studied in this manner at the stages of the estrous cycle, in castrated animals, and in animals receiving pharmacologic doses of an alpha adrenergic agonist, phenylephrine. Evaluation of the relative depth of the impression left upon the vascular casts by cushions permitted the following conclusions. The cushions protruded maximally (and thus impeded flow most effectively) in castrated animals and in animals treated with the vasoconstrictor, phenylephrine. In contrast, the cushions protruded less in animals in proestrus and estrus. These data suggest that the cushions do respond, either actively, by virtue of the contractile state of the smooth muscle within the cushion, or passively, as a function of overall vessel geometry, to alpha adrenergic stimulation. The contrast in cushion protrusion between the castrated state, and proestrus and estrus, suggests that ovarian hormones exert an influence over the functional morphology of the cushions in a manner which promotes maximal uterine perfusion during those periods of the estrous cycle which are documented as periods of uterine hyperemia. These studies thus provide evidence for the dynamic role of intraarterial cushions in the regulation of uterine blood flow.
Grüneisen Parameter for a Solid under Finite Strain

An evaluation of the Gr\"unesisen parameter (or constant) from the equation of state of a solid has been obtained by Druyvesteyn and Meyering on the basis of the theory of finite strain. The result differs (by $\ensuremath{-}\frac{1}{3}$) from the corresponding evaluation on the Debye theory, as given by Lorentz and by Slater. The value of Druyvesteyn and Meyering is derived here without use of the formal theory of finite strain, and shown to correspond physically to a model of independent pairs of nearest neighbor atoms, rather than to the Debye model of coupled atomic vibrations. This fact resolves a paradox raised by Dugdale and MacDonald in connection with an ideal harmonic solid, and ascribed by them to neglect of finite strain. The presence of a state of finite hydrostatic pressure, upon which elastic waves or pressure changes of infinitesimal amplitude are impressed, is taken into account explicitly by means of Murnaghan's theory of finite strain, to obtain the Gr\"uneisen parameter, as evaluated from the equation of state, on the Debye model and for a Druyvesteyn-Meyering solid. The results are identical in the two cases with the corresponding values obtained without use of the formal theory of finite strain. Hence, no basis exists for the modification at finite pressure in the Gr\"uneisen parameter from the Debye theory, as proposed by Dugdale and MacDonald. A comparison of average values over a relatively large number of elements, of Gr\"uneisen constants as evaluated from Gr\"uneisen's law and from the equation of state on the Debye model, shows excellent agreement at normal and at melting temperature.
Von Willebrand factor, platelets and endothelial cell interactions.

Summary. The adhesive protein von Willebrand factor (VWF) contributes to platelet function by mediating the initiation and progression of thrombus formation at sites of vascular injury. In recent years there has been considerable progress in explaining the biological properties of VWF, including the structural and functional characteristics of specific domains. The mechanism of interaction between the VWF A1 domain and glycoprotein Ibα has been elucidated in detail, bringing us closer to understanding how this adhesive bond can oppose the fluid dynamic effects of rapidly flowing blood contributing to platelet adhesion and activation. Moreover, novel findings have been obtained on the link between regulation of VWF multimer size and microvascular thrombosis. This progress in basic research has provided critical information to define with greater precision the role of VWF in vascular biology and pathology, including its possible involvement in the onset of atherosclerosis and its acute thrombotic complications.
OXYTOCIN IMMUNOREACTIVITY IN THE HYPOTHALAMUS OF FEMALE HAMSTERS

In Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus), oxytocin (OXT) activity within the medial preoptic-anterior hypothalamus (MPOA-AH) and the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) plays an important role in the expression of sexual receptivity. Immunocytochemical analysis with OXT-specific antibodies was used to identify the distribution of OXT-containing cell bodies and fibers in female hamster brain and to determine the possible sources of OXT important for sexual receptivity. Oxytocin-immunoreactive cell bodies and fibers were found in several regions of the preoptic area, including the medial preoptic area, the medial preoptic nucleus, and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Large numbers of cell bodies and fibers were localized within the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei, and in anterior hypothalamus. OXT-immunoreactive fibers were observed in the VMH and the ventral tegmental area. The anatomical data from the present study support the hypothesis that OXT activity in the MPOA-AH and the VMH plays an important role in the regulation of sexual receptivity in hamsters.
Unusual presentation of a third ventricular cyst in a patient with basal cell nevus syndrome.

Abstract: Patients with basil roll nevus syndrome often have neurologic manifestations that occasionally cause complications. I report a case of a third ventricular cyst causing unusual symptoms in a 16-year-old boy. The discussion includes a review of the various neurologic signs and symptoms in this syndrome.
The course of foveal light adaptation measured by the threshold intensity increment.

The course of change of sensitivity during illumination of the fovea has been determined for various intensities of adapting light. Before illumination the fovea was in a dark-adapted condition. Sensitivity is defined as the reciprocal of the just perceptible intensity increment. It is found that, for all illuminations used, sensitivity, as defined above, is low immediately after the onset of the adapting light; it increases to a maximum several minutes after the onset of the adapting illumination and then declines to an intermediate final level. Some theoretical implications of this finding are considered.
Laparoscopic-assisted surgery for constipation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, outcome and disability of various forms of laparoscopic-assisted colectomy for constipation. Between August 1991 and February 1995, 14 patients with constipation who underwent laparoscopic assisted total abdominal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (TAC + IR) or sigmoidectomy with colorectal anastomosis (SC + CR) with or without rectopexy were analyzed. Parameters included age, sex, preoperative medical treatment and evaluation, constipation score, indication for surgery, procedure performed, length of surgery, postoperative ileus, and hospitalization as well as morbidity, cosmesis, functional outcome and return to partial and full activity. Surgery was undertaken for colonic inertia (6 patients) and obstructing sigmoidocele with or without prolapse (8 patients) in 12 females and 2 males with a mean age of 47.5 (range 22–77) years. The mean history of laxative- or enema-dependent constipation was 18.3 (range 7–35) years and the mean constipation score was 24.4 (range 20–29). The overall mean operating time was 217.5 (range 125–325) min; 260 (range 195–315) min in the patients with TAC + IR, and 185.6 (range 125–325) min in the patients with SC + CR with or without rectopexy (P < 0.05). The mean length of postoperative ileus was 3.8 (range 2–7) days, and the length of hospitalization was 7.6 (range 4–15) days. There were 3 (21%) cases of intraoperative complications, and 4 cases of (29%) postoperative complications. At a mean follow-up of 37.8 (range 18–60) months, the mean frequency of bowel movements had increased from 2.5 per week preoperatively to 8.4 per week postoperatively (P < 0.0001). Ten patients reported excellent or good results relative to cosmesis. The mean time to return to partial activity was 1.7 (range 1–3) weeks, and return to full activity was 5.1 (range 3–10) weeks. Although laparoscopic procedures for constipation have definite advantages including better cosmesis and more rapid return to partial and full acitivity, disadvantages include the long operating time that may preclude its routine application.
Rheological Aspects of Drops Deforming in Finite Reynolds Number Oscillatory Extensional Flows

The evolving morphology of droplets in a flowing emulsion determines its rheological properties. A two-way interaction between drops and the flow governs the rheological stresses arising from drop deformation. In this paper, the rheology of droplet emulsions under oscillatory extensional flow is investigated using direct numerical simulation (DNS). The deformation of a three dimensional drop is simulated. The rheological responses are related with the interface morphology using Bachelor’s stress formulation [6]. Detailed investigation of the variation of parameters such as interfacial tension, flow frequency and inertia displayed complex non-Newtonian response of the emulsion that will have broad implication in industrial applications. The results are explained and discussed with a simple model for the drop dynamics.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Covered Stent Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy Initial Success but Ultimate Failure Resulting From Collateral Formation

A 76-year-old woman had syncope and exertional dyspnea. A systolic murmur was noted. An echocardiogram showed hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, with septal thickness 18 mm and peak left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient 78 mm Hg (Figure 1A). Coronary arteriography demonstrated mild coronary atherosclerosis, with mild stenosis of the proximal left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery involving the first septal branch creating an unfavorable angle of entry into this branch (Figure 2A). Attempts to catheterize the first septal branch with an angioplasty balloon catheter for intracoronary …
Negative Conductance Caused by Entry of Sodium and Cesium Ions into the Potassium Channels of Squid Axons

Internal Cs+, Na+, Li+, and, to a lesser degree, Rb+ interfere with outward current through the K pores in voltage clamped squid axons. Addition of 100 mM NaF to the perfusion medium cuts outward current for large depolarizations about in half, and causes negative conductance over a range of membrane voltages. For example, suddenly reducing membrane potential from +100 to +60 mv increases the magnitude of the outward current. Internal Cs+ and, to a small extent, Li+, also cause negative conductance. Na+ ions permeate at least 17 times less well through the K pores than K+, and Cs+ does not permeate measurably. The results strongly suggest that K pores have a wide and not very selective inner mouth, which accepts K+, Na+, Li+, Cs+, tetraethylammonium ion (TEA+), and other ions. The diameter of the mouth must be at least 8 A, which is the diameter of a TEA+ ion. K+ ions in the mouths probably have full hydration shells. The remainder of the pore is postulated to be 2.6–3.0 A in diameter, large enough for K+ and Rb+ but too small for Cs+ and TEA+. We postulate that Na+ ions do not enter the narrower part of the pore because they are too small to fit well in the coordination cages provided by the pore as replacements for the water molecules surrounding an ion.
Nitrous Oxide Intensifies the Pulmonary Arterial Pressure Response to Venous Injection of Carbon Dioxide in the Dog

To determine the effect of nitrous oxide on the body's response to venous carbon dioxide (CO2) embolization, the authors compared changes in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (MPAP) following intravenous injections of CO2 in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs breathing 100 per cent oxygen (O2) or nitrous oxide--oxygen, 79:21 per cent (N2O). When CO2 was infused intravenously in seven dogs at a rate of 3 ml/kg/min the volume of injected CO2 needed to increase MPAP to 40 per cent above control during breathing of O2 was approximately 5.5 times the volume necessary during inhalation of N2O. In a second group of eight dogs, breathing N2O, compared with O2 or air, resulted in a significantly greater increase and duration of increase in MPAP following a bolus injection of CO2 of 20, 40 or 80 ml. The data suggest that breathing nitrous oxide intensifies and prolongs the effect of CO2 bubbles in blood. While the magnitude of insult following intravenous injection of CO2 is about 6.5 times less than that for a similar volume of air, avoidance of nitrous oxide should be considered in management of patients in whom CO2 embolism is possible.
Improving the imaging ability of ultrasound-modulated optical tomography with spectral-hole burning

Ultrasound-modulated optical tomography is a hybrid imaging technique based on detection of the diffused light modulated by a focused ultrasonic wave inside a scattering medium. With the combined advantages of ultrasonic resolution and optical contrast, UOT is ideal for deep tissue imaging. Its growth in popularity and application, however, is hindered by the low efficiency in detecting the modulated diffused photons. Research activities on UOT have therefore been centered on improving its signal detection efficiency by exploring various technical solutions. A prime example is the use of spectral-hole burning (SHB) in UOT. By applying SHB crystal as a spectral filter, one modulation sideband of the diffused light can be efficiently selected while all the other frequency components are strongly suppressed. Immune to both the spatial and temporal incoherence of the signal with a high enough on/off ratio, SHB can boost the UOT imaging ability dramatically and push it towards practical applications. We compare SHB with the other technologies that have been applied to UOT, and identify the unique features that make SHB a preferable tool for UOT. We also discuss the desired improvements from the SHB side, which will help UOT pave the way from research to everyday life.
On the polynomial matrix equation AX + YB = C

In this note an algorithm for finding a unique solution \{X, Y\} of the bilateral polynominal matrix equation AX + YB = C is presented. The solution is obtained by solving a set of linear equations. Relations between the bilateral polynomial equation and the unilateral one are also discussed.
Reasons reactivity and incompatibilist intuitions

John Martin Fischer and Mark Ravizza (1998) advance an innovative form of compatibilism between free will and determinism. They characterize the relevant freedom as the control condition necessary ...
Cyclic AMP-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram and RO-20-1724 promoted apoptosis in HL60 promyelocytic leukemic cells via cyclic AMP-independent mechanism☆

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are responsible for the hydrolysis of cAMP and cGMP which act as intracellular second messengers in a variety of cellular functions. In this paper we report that PDE3 and PDE4 were two dominant classes of PDEs expressed in HL60 cells. The influence of specific PDE inhibitors on apoptosis in HL60 cells was studied. The non-specific inhibitor IBMX and PDE3 specific inhibitors (milrinone and trequinsin) did not promote apoptosis. They inhibited apoptosis induced by paclitaxel or thapsigargin. However, PDE4 specific inhibitors (rolipram and RO-20-1724) promoted apoptosis within 5 h. In HL60 cells, other cAMP-eliciting reagents (8-bromo-cAMP, Sp-cAMP and forskolin) also inhibited apoptosis, while cell-permeable cGMP analogs did not affect apoptosis. Therefore, IBMX and PDE3 specific inhibitors may prevent HL60 cells from apoptosis by increasing intracellular cAMP. However, apoptosis induced by PDE4 specific inhibitors is not likely due to increased cAMP level. These results suggest that rolipram and RO-20-1724 promoted apoptosis in HL60 cells through cAMP-independent mechanism.
Posterolateral corner reconstruction using a hamstring allograft and a bioabsorbable tenodesis screw: description of a new surgical technique

Capsuloligamentous posterolateral corner knee joint deficiencies cause increased anterior cruciate ligament forces during internal knee rotation and increased posterior cruciate ligament forces during external knee rotation. Undiagnosed posterolateral corner knee joint injury in combination with anterior cruciate ligament or posterior cruciate ligament injury can lead to failure of anterior cruciate ligament or posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The purpose of this technical note is to present a new posterolateral corner reconstruction technique for treating patients with chronic capsuloligamentous posterolateral corner deficiency. The technique uses a bioabsorbable tenodesis screw and a hamstring allograft to reconstruct the popliteofibular and lateral collateral ligaments.
Stable isotope labelling method for studies of saccharide metabolism in Agardhiella subulata

Stable isotopes are preferable in many ways to radioactive isotopes for metabolic studies designed to elucidate biosynthetic pathways. We have developed the methodology to utilize 13C-labelled compounds in tracer studies of saccharide metabolism in the red algae. Cultures of Agardhiella subulata were pulse-chase labelled with 13CO2 and 12CO2. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and 13C-NMR provided for positive identification of labelled carbohydrate metabolites. In addition, GC-MS can be used to profile the monosaccharide composition of algal species and combined GC-MS and 13C-NMR can disclose which carbon(s) is (are) labelled and the extent of labelling. In 13CO2 incubated plants, the label is clearly detected in floridoside and floridean starch. After chasing the labelled alga with 12CO2 for three days or storing the pulse-chase labelled alga in darkness for 6 days, labels disappeared from both floridoside and starch and the contents of these two carbohydrates became very low. More detailed biochemical analysis is being continued to identify labelled cell wall polysaccharides and/or their precursors.
ASYMPTOTIC VALUES, PREPOLES, AND PERIODIC POINTS

The dynamics of map Fα,β(z) = 1/(α + βe-z) are explored for portions of the real parameter plane where no fixed points are present on the real line. Careful tracking of the prepoles of order k and their relationship to asymptotic values yields regions in the parameter plane where attracting or elliptic cycles of period k + 2 are found. When α is fixed, it is shown for k = 0 that except for at most finitely many values of β, the 2-cycles found are indeed attracting. Numerical observations indicate that higher order cycles are also attracting, and the Julia set for two different such cases is depicted.
Unusual Manifestations of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Infancy

SUMMARY Seven cases (five girls and two boys) with an isolated patent ductus arteriosus demonstrate a myriad of unusual clinical features early in life. The auscultatory -phonocardiographic findings may be consistent with a patent ductus arteriosus, but the electrocardiogram may suggest a co-existing malformation. One electrocardiogram showed isolated right ventricular hypertrophy; the other mimicked the pattern usually associated with endocardial cushion defects — both highly unusual in cases with an isolated patent ductus arteriosus. Other common congenital malformations may be suggested by the auscultatory-phonocardiographic findings, such as ventricular septal defect, mitral insufficiency, and coarctation of the aorta. Unemphasized previously is the finding that with the onset of cardiac failure the classic murmur of patent ductus arteriosus may become apparent. The auscultatory-phonocardiographic findings may suggest no particular defect when an infant presents without a significant murmur or when an insignificant systolic murmur is accompanied by a loud pan-diastolic murmur. These unusual observations make it mandatory to evaluate any symptomatic infant with a left-to-right shunt for a patent ductus arteriosus even though the clinical findings may not suggest this lesion. This diagnosis is probably made with the highest degree of certainty by retrograde aortography, utilizing a catheter positioned above the aortic valve. Such an examination also delineates lesions of the aortic sinuses, coronary arteries and the aortic arch system.
A Coaching Model for Student Affairs Assessment

Emily M. Slager and D'Arcy J. Oaks describe the coaching philosophy that helped the Student Life departments at The Ohio State University excel at the sometimes daunting process of outcomes–based assessment.
Differential patterns of muscle activation in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic rotator cuff tears

Patients with rotator cuff tears have varying degrees of symptom expression. Our purpose was to evaluate the differential firing patterns of the rotator cuff, deltoid, and scapular stabilizer muscle groups in normal control subjects and in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic 2-tendon rotator cuff tears. Eighteen subjects were evaluated: six normal subjects and twelve with 2-tendon cuff tears (six asymptomatic and six symptomatic). All cuff tear patients had magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans documenting superoposterior tear configurations involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons; all normal subjects had an ultrasound examination confirming the absence of cuff pathology. Subjects were grouped based on shoulder examination and outcomes questionnaires. Asymptomatic patients had minimal pain ( 10° of motion loss). Electromyographic activity from 12 muscles and kinematic data were collected simultaneously during 10 functional tasks. Both symptomatic and asymptomatic cuff subjects demonstrated a trend toward increased muscle activation during all tasks compared with normal subjects. During the internal rotation tasks, asymptomatic patients had significantly greater (P
Volume of Excision and Cosmesis with Routine Cavity Shave Margins Technique

Cavity shave margin (CSM) removal is a surgical technique that reduces re-excision rates. One criticism of this technique has been that negative margins are obtained primarily as a result of higher volumes of tissue removed. This study evaluates the volume of tissue removed in a group that underwent CSM versus one that underwent standard partial mastectomy (SPM) and explores cosmetic outcomes. Single-institution retrospective review identified 533 patients with a diagnosis of breast cancer who underwent PM. Matched pair analysis of 72 patients who had undergone PM with CSM versus 72 who had undergone SPM was performed. Volumes were calculated from dimensions in the pathology report. A subgroup was analyzed by a multidisciplinary panel for cosmetic outcome using the Harvard Breast Cosmesis Grading Scale. Mean tumor size in the CSM group was 1.52 versus 1.51 cm3 in the SPM (P = 0.8073). Mean total volume of tissue excised with CSM was lower than that in the SPM group. Mean volume of excision with CSM was 80.66 and 165.1 cm3 in the SPM group (P = 0.0005). Patients undergoing CSM required fewer re-excisions than the SPM group: 13 (18.1%) versus 25 (34.6%) (P = 0.03). Mean score for cosmesis was 2.3 in the CSM group and 3.0 for SPM (P = 0.0004). CSM decreases the need for re-excision. Total tissue volume excised is lower in patients who undergo CSM, and cosmetic results appear to be improved. This approach should be considered for all patients undergoing PM.
Correlation effects and the high-frequency spin susceptibility of an electron liquid: Exact limits

Spin correlations in an interacting electron liquid are studied in the high-frequency limit and in both two and three dimensions. The third-moment sum rule is evaluated and is used to derive exact limiting forms (at both long and short wavelengths) for the spin-antisymmetric local-field factor, limω→∞G-(q,ω). In two dimensions limω→∞G-(q,ω) is found to diverge as 1/q at long wavelengths, and the spin-antisymmetric exchange-correlation kernel of time-dependent spin density functional theory diverges as 1/q2 in both two and three dimensions. These signal a failure of the local-density approximation, one that can be redressed by alternative approaches.
Productivity and Economics of Brinjal ( Solanum melongena L.) Groundnut ( Arachis hypogaea L.) Intercropping

The productivity and economic efficiency of brinjal ( Solanum melongena L.) groundnut ( Arachis hypogaea L.) intercropping was assessed at the Agronomy farm of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka during 2007/2008. This experiment was designed in a Randomized Complete Block Design with five treatments, each replicated three times. The planting pattern comprised brinjal as mono crop with the spacing of 90 cm × 60 cm (T1), groundnut as mono crop with the spacing of 45 cm × 30 cm (T2), alternative planting of brinjal at 90 cm × 60 cm and groundnut at 90 cm × 30 cm (T3), 60/150 cm paired row planting of brinjal with two rows of groundnut in between paired rows (T4) and 75/120 cm paired row planting of brinjal with one row of groundnut in between paired rows (T5). Yields of both plants were measured at harvest. Also, land equivalent ratio, gross return, net return, cost-benefit ratio and monetary equivalent ratio were calculated as per standard equations. The results revealed that compared to monocropping brinjal yield, T4 gave 38% additional yield followed by T3 (20%). Maximum Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) was recorded in T4 (1.57) and minimum LER was recorded in T5 (1.31). Gross return and cost - benefit ratio were increased by 50.69% and 47.35% respectively in T4 compared to T1. And also monetary equivalent ratio (1.49) was higher in T4. All intercropping system gave substantially high net income over monocropping. As compared to brinjal monocropping, net income has been increased by 60.62% in T4 followed by T3 (50.86%). This experiment showed that 60/150 cm paired row planting of brinjal with two rows of groundnut in between paired rows (T4) would be the most suitable planting system to enhance land use efficiency and increase the income in sandy regosol. Key words: Cost-benefit ratio; gross return; land equivalent ratio; monetary equivalent ratio; net return. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jfa.v2i1.3936 JFA 2009; 2(1): 1-7
Optimization of the hide powder azure assay for quantitating the protease of Pseudomonas fluorescens

Abstract The extracellular protease of Pseudomonas fluorescens NC 3 was optimally active at 40°C in a reaction mixture containing: 50 mM HEPES ( N -2-hydroxyethylpiperazine- N ′-2-ethanesulfonic acid) buffer (pH 6.6), 0.5 mM CaCl 2 , and 25 mg hide powder azure in 5 ml total volume. Divalent cation chelators, i.e., EDTA, o -phenanthroline, citrate or phosphate, inhibited the enzyme. Protease production by P. fluorescens NC 3 was initiated during late-logarithmic-growth phase in a sodium caseinate medium and reached its maximum at the onset of the stationary phase.
EFFECT OF RADIOTHERAPY ON SYMPTOMS DUE TO HETEROTOPIC MARROW IN β-THALASSAEMIA

8 thalassaemic patients with complications due to pressure by heterotopic marrow on the spinal cord, the vertebral column, or the airways were given radiotherapy. Small doses of radiotherapy (10 to 26 Gy) relieved symptoms in all of them. 3 of the patients were followed-up radiographically. In 2 the mass of heterotopic marrow regressed completely and in the other partially.
Evaluation of temperature influence on friction measurements

Many aspects influence the skid resistance of a pavement surface including surface texture, tire characteristics, vehicle operations, and environmental factors. The objective of this paper is to quantify the temperature influence on the skid number of asphalt pavement surfaces when measured by the locked-wheel friction tester. Specifically, this study aims to determine an adjustment factor for friction readings to a standard reference temperature, removing the seasonal temperature variations influencing measurements. This allows agencies to improve the comparison of pavement sections and to provide a more objective assessment of pavement conditions for safety. The friction database employed is from the National Center for Asphalt Technology Test Track facility. The data includes friction measurements with a locked-wheel trailer on sections from the 2000 and 2003 research cycles. The approach calculates the temperature adjustment factor, CT, from a grouping of the data by temperature values at the time of the measurements. The results show that it is possible to define a reference temperature to adjust friction measured at any other temperature value. The reference temperature identified is between 19.5°C (67.1°F) and 20.2°C (68.4°F). The study concludes that when testing, if the air temperature is greater than the reference temperature, the friction reading is biased by a positive quantity. Therefore the adjustment factor, CT, reduces the measured friction, whereas for measurements performed at temperatures lower than the reference temperature, CT increases the measured friction. Language: en
Characterization of somatic cell hybrids by bivariate flow karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization.

We report on the use of flow karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to characterize the human chromosomes in somatic cell hybrids. The identity, DNA content, and relative frequency of human chromosomes are derived from flow karyotypes, i.e., measurements of Hoechst and chromomycin fluorescence intensities of chromosomes by dual beam flow cytometry. Chromosome integrity is assessed by comparing the peak position of a human chromosome in the flow karyotypes of a hybrid cell line and its human donor. When human donor cells are unavailable, the peak position of a human chromosome in a hybrid line is compared to the range of peak positions among normal individuals. The relative frequency of human chromosomes in subclones or hybrids grown in culture is monitored using the volumes of peaks in flow karyotypes. FISH with biotinylated human genomic DNA or chromosome-specific repeat sequences as probe is used in conjunction with flow karyotyping to confirm the number of human chromosomes in hybrids. Some small rearrangements are detected by flow karyotyping and not by FISH. On the other hand, translocations between human and rodent chromosomes are detected by FISH and not always by flow karyotyping. Flow karyotyping and FISH were used to characterize over 100 hybrid lines donated by other laboratories. A hybrid set useful for the construction of chromosome-enriched gene libraries is presented. In this set, each of the 24 human chromosome types is present and intact, as judged by these techniques, in a line containing little or no other human material.
The Effects of Box Differences and Employee Job Experience on Trunk Kinematics & Low Back Injury Risk during Depalletizing Operations

Workers from a local food distribution center were studied depalletizing boxes from a pallet. The objectives of this study were to determine the change in trunk kinematics associated with selecting boxes having different characteristics and to observe if there was a relationship between trunk kinematics and employee job experience. The boxes varied in terms of: size; presence/absence of handles; weight; and location on a pallet. Worker job experience also was recorded. Kinematic trunk motions and subsequent risk of low back disorder (LBD), assessed using a risk model, were studied as dependent measures. Results indicated that the weight and layer conditions influenced most of the kinematic variables. The size and handle conditions influenced fewer dependent measures. All main effects but the handle condition had an influence on LBD risk. Most of the significant interaction effects were related to layer, illustrating the tremendous influence that box location on a pallet had on trunk kinematics and LBD ris...
Using simplified regulated breathing with an adolescent stutterer: Application of effective intervention in a residential context

Simplified regulated breathing (SRB) has been demonstrated to reduce or eliminate stuttering in children. However, much of the current research has evaluated the intervention with school-aged children within educational contexts. In the current case report, we extended the application of SRB by evaluating its effectiveness in treating stuttering displayed by a 15-year-old resident of a large midwestern residential facility. Further, we evaluated the impact across different assessment conditions. Results showed that SRB resulted in decreased stuttering for the participant, although differential effectiveness across conditions was noted. These results are discussed in terms of the generality of SRB across client populations and clinical settings, as well as the value of addressing contextual variables when treating stuttering.
Using Research on Learning from Text to Inform Online Discussion

Drawing on research literature on online discussion and on reading and learning from the text, we argue that research on learning from text has much to offer but has been largely absent in informing the design and study of online learning environments. We propose several key issues to be considered in research and development of online discussion, and a framework for examining the goals and features of online discussions. We then report on an exploratory study of an online discussion environment informed by this framework.
A Flight Dynamics Model for a Multi-Actuated Flexible Rocket Vehicle

A comprehensive set of motion equations for a multi-actuated flight vehicle is presented. The dynamics are derived from a vector approach that generalizes the classical linear perturbation equations for flexible launch vehicles into a coupled three-dimensional model. The effects of nozzle and aerosurface inertial coupling, sloshing propellant, and elasticity are incorporated without restrictions on the position, orientation, or number of model elements. The present formulation is well suited to matrix implementation for large-scale linear stability and sensitivity analysis and is also shown to be extensible to nonlinear time-domain simulation through the application of a special form of Lagrange s equations in quasi-coordinates. The model is validated through frequency-domain response comparison with a high-fidelity planar implementation.
Neuropsychiatric rehabilitation for persistent mental illness

The benefits of new knowledge on the psychobiology and neuropsychology of serious mental illnesses have been slow to impact on psychiatric rehabilitation technology. A literature review reveals that, at least in the case of schizophrenia, enough is known about neurobiological deficits and their impact on neurocognitive functioning to justify a more informed approach to psychiatric rehabilitation. Essential elements for a program of research are presented and preliminary data are reported examining the prevalence of executive deficits, correlations between neuropsychological deficits and social adjustment, and the nature of socially stigmatizing neuromotor deficits and their reliable assessment. In addition, early experience with the remediation of executive deficits is described and suggestions are made for future developments in this area. The authors conclude that barriers to the integration of knowledge from biological psychiatry and psychiatric rehabilitation have been largely related to academic “cultural” isolation, and that active cross fertilization of ideas is clearly justified by the present state of knowledge.
A wave equation model for finite element tidal computations

Abstract A shallow water wave equation is developed from the primitive two-dimensional shallow water equation. A finite element model based on this equation and the primitive momentum equation is developed. A finite difference formulation is used in the time domain which allows the model to be implicit or explicit while still centered in time. Results obtained with linear triangles and quadratic quadrilaterals are reported, and compare well with analytic solutions. The model incorporates all of the economical advantages of earlier models, and errors due to short wavelength spatial noise are suppressed without recourse to artificial means.
Natriuretic Peptides in the Management of Solid Organ Transplantation Associated Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Randomized controlled trials involving natriuretic peptide administration in solid organ transplantation setting have shown inconsistent effects for renal endpoints. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of these trials to ascertain the role of natriuretic peptides in the management of solid organ transplantation associated acute kidney injury (AKI). MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google scholar were searched independently by two authors for randomized trials evaluating renal effects of natriuretic peptides in solid organ transplantation settings. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies for eligibility and extracted the relevant data. The pooled estimate showed that natriuretic peptide administration is associated with a reduction in AKI requiring dialysis (odds ratio = 0.50 [0.26–0.97]), a statistically nonsignificant trend toward improvement in posttransplant creatinine clearance (weighted mean difference = 5.5 mL/min, [−1.3 to 12.2 mL/min]), and reduction in renal replacement requirement duration (weighted mean difference −44.0 hours, [−60.5 to −27.5 hours]). There were no mortality events and no adverse events related to natriuretic peptides. In conclusion, administration of natriuretic peptides in solid organ transplantation may be associated with significant improvements in renal outcomes. These observations need to be confirmed in an adequately powered, prospective multicenter study.
Softprop: softmax neural network backpropagation learning

Multi-layer backpropagation, like many learning algorithms that can create complex decision surfaces, is prone to overfitting. Softprop is a novel learning approach presented here that is reminiscent of the softmax explore-exploit Q-learning search heuristic. It fits the problem while delaying settling into error minima to achieve better generalization and more robust learning. This is accomplished by blending standard SSE optimization with lazy training, a new objective function well suited to learning classification tasks, to form a more stable learning model. Over several machine learning data sets, softprop reduces classification error by 17.1 percent and the variance in results by 38.6 percent over standard SSE minimization.
The distribution of nitric acid between water and tributyl phosphate - hexane solvents

The distribution of nitric acid between water and solutions of tributyl phosphate in n-hexane has been measured over a greater range of acid and tributylphosphate concentrations than have been reported previously. The partitioning of nitric acid between water and tributylphosphate-hexane solvents has been satisfactorily explained on the basis of the commonly accepted equilibrium complexing reaction, with this modification: The over-all aqueous-to-organic reaction is subdivided into the distribution of uncomplexed nitric acid and an organic phase complexing reaction. This alteration is found necessary to account for the behavior of the partitioning data of dilute acid over the entire tributylphosphate-hexane range. The residual discrepancy between the theory and the data can be qualitatively attributed either to modest nonideality of the organic phase or to the effect of the varying water content of the solvent on the distribution coefficient of uncomplexed nitric acid. The sparse data on water extraction by tributylphosphate-hexane solvents are not amenable to the same type of analysis, even though a type of complexing similar to that found for nitric acid has been previously proposed. The interaction between water and tributylphosphate appears to be stronger than that normally attributed to nonideality but weaker than a true chemical complex.
Techniques for the Characterization of Film Adhesion

Films and coatings are integral elements of devices used for a variety of purposes in electronic, engineering, and other applications. The performance, functional characteristics, and structural properties of the devices all depend on the adhesion between the film and substrate. Adhesion measurement techniques that are currently available are not comparable from one laboratory to another, nor are there any techniques that are noncontacting, quantitative, and reliable. This topic will be reviewed with the major emphasis placed on measurements of thin films. The basic goal of a successful measurement technique is to create a stress in the adhesive bond and then measure the response of the film to this stress. Regions of the film having weak bonding forces will produce a different response than the regions having strong bonding forces. In our work surface acoustic waves (SAW) are used to introduce the stresses and the change in the velocity of the waves is measured. The waves are excited on the substrate with a high numerical aperture cylindrical lens. The Y(z) response of the film system is then obtained and processed to extract the SAW velocity. The results of these measurements on a film system with known regions of strong and weak adhesion will be presented. These measurements will be compared to simulations of the change in surface wave velocity as the bond stiffness between the film and substrate is changed.
Revisiting the real space density functional theory of hard sphere freezing in the Percus-Yevick approximation.

Dong and Evans (DE) recently studied the freezing transition of a hard sphere fluid using classical density functional theory [J. Chem. Phys.125, 204506(2006)]. They calculated the solid-liquid coexistence densities and Lindemann parameter using a free energy perturbation truncated at second order, with the liquid-state direct correlation function (dcf) evaluated in the Percus–Yevick (PY) approximation. The density of the solid was represented in real space as a sum of Gaussian functions centered at the lattice sites; only nearest neighbor interactions were included when calculating the perturbation integrals due to the sharpness of the Gaussians and the short range of the PY dcf. We present an alternative derivation that evaluates the real space integrals in a different manner, focusing on an intermediate function that is analogous to the indirect correlation function of the Ornstein–Zernike theory. Our approach provides a basis for extending the ideas of DE to systems with longer-ranged interactions and...
A Dopamine Gene (DRD2) Distinguishes Between Offenders Who Have and Have Not Been Violently Victimized

Research has shown that offenders, on average, are more likely to be violently victimized than nonoffenders. However, a substantial percentage of offenders are not violently victimized. The current study uses data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) to investigate whether variants of a polymorphism in the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2) distinguish between offenders who are violently victimized and offenders who are not violently victimized. The results show that offenders who are violently victimized are more likely to carry the DRD2 (A1) risk allele than offenders who have not been violently victimized.