cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The pressure‐jump technique shows maize leaf growth to be enhanced by increases in turgor only when water status is not too high

This study on expansive growth of the first leaf of maize has two goals: one is to determine how the sensitivity of growth to changes in water status varies with the initial water status of the leaf, and the other is to adapt the pressure-jump technique of Okamoto et al. (1989, Plant and Cell Physiology 30, 979–985), developed for studying growth of excised stem segments, for use on whole seedlings. Initial water status was varied by using: transpiring vs. non-transpiring conditions, seedlings differing in emerged leaf length and hence transpiring area, and root medium without mannitol vs. medium with added mannitol (to –0·3 MPa). The results show that growth changed with changes in plant water status when the water status was low, but was unaffected when water status was very high. A stepwise change in hydrostatic pressure on the root medium was quickly and fully transmitted to the base of the leaf. The increase in leaf elongation due to a pressure step of 0·025 MPa was negligible under conditions of high plant water status and became substantial under conditions of low water status. In adapting the pressure-jump method to the whole seedling, there was some loss of resolution, and the yield threshold Y of the Lockhart equation could not be estimated directly. Nonetheless, the data were suitable for the calculation of volumetric extensibility m and the estimation of growth effective turgor (turgor above Y). Extensibility was shown to increase 3- to 4-fold when leaf water status was reduced from the maximum to the point where elongation rate was halved, while growth effective turgor was calculated to diminish even more markedly.
Glucocorticoid regulation of transcription: The role of physiologic concentrations of adrenal glucocorticoids in the diurnal variation of rat liver chromatin template availability

Abstract A diurnal variation in rat hepatic chromatin template availability has been demonstrated. The characteristics include a nadir in template availability at 20.00 h, followed by a nocturnal rise (apparent by 23.00 h to twice the minimum value. The maximum level persists throughout the night with a gradual decrease occurring during the daylight hours. Adrenalectomy greatly reduced but did not abolish the nocturnal rise in template availability which, in the normal rat, follows the apex in corticosterone secretion by 3–5 h. Injection of hydrocortisone (50 μg/100 g body weight) in adrenalectomized rats at 16.30 h (8 h prior to kill at 00.30 h) completely restored the normal nocturnal rise. This dose was shown by direct assay to give physiologic plasma concentrations. Pharmacologic doses of hydrocortisone in similar experiments with adrenalectomized rats produced only a slight additive rise in template availability when compared to physiologic doses. Both corticosterone and dexamethasone were also shown to produce this effect. Injection of hydrocortisone in normal rats at 16.00 h (4 h prior to kill at the 20.00 h nadir) shifted the plasma glucocorticoid peak and resulted in an induction of transcribable template when compared to saline-injected controls. Normal rats injected at 16.30 h (8 h prior to kill at the nocturnal apex 00.30 h) did not exhibit additive induction. It is concluded, therefore, that glucocorticoids play an important role in the normal variation of template derepression.
Source apportionment of fine particles in Tennessee using a source-oriented model.

Abstract Source apportionment of fine particles (PM2.5, particulate matter < 2 µm in aerodynamic diameter) is important to identify the source categories that are responsible for the concentrations observed at a particular receptor. Although receptor models have been used to do source apportionment, they do not fully take into account the chemical reactions (including photochemical reactions) involved in the formation of secondary fine particles. Secondary fine particles are formed from photochemical and other reactions involving precursor gases, such as sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, ammonia, and volatile organic compounds. This paper presents the results of modeling work aimed at developing a source apportionment of primary and secondary PM2.5. On-road mobile source and point source inventories for the state of Tennessee were estimated and compiled. The national emissions inventory for the year 1999 was used for the other states. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Models3/ Community Multi-Scale A...
Ten Steps in Training Volunteer Support Group Facilitators

Caregiver support groups are often led by volunteer lay leaders who might have personal experiences with Alzheimer’s disease. This article offers 10 steps in what to consider and how to conduct training for these lay leaders so that the success of the support groups can be maximized. Steps include helping trainees understand their own feelings and the feelings of their group members as well as teaching about the stages that groups typically experience from beginning to termination and the role of the leader at each stage.
Radiation therapy for juvenile angiofibroma: evaluation by CT and MRI, analysis of tumor regression, and selection of patients

Abstract Purpose: To provide an analysis of nine patients with juvenile angiofibroma treated with radiotherapy between June 1975 and June 1987. Methods and Materials: All patients had a minimum 3 years of follow-up; six of the patients had greater than 5 years and four had greater than 10 years of follow-up. Two patients received radiotherapy as primary therapy, and the remaining seven patients were treated with surgery initially, followed by irradiation for recurrent disease. Characteristic computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR), and angiography findings were identified. All nine patients had nasal cavity or nasopharyngeal involvement. Eight patients had involvement of the base of the skull, and seven had intracranial extension. Tumor regression during and after treatment was estimated clinically and from available imaging studies. Results: Tumor regression during treatment ranged from 25% to 100%, with most patients experiencing between 30% and 50% clinical decrease in the size of the tumor. Seven patients eventually showed complete regression by physical examination, but only two of seven patients evaluated by CT and/or MR showed complete regression. In five patients, follow-up imaging studies showed stable residual changes. Local control was achieved in all patients. No late complications were found. Conclusion: The initial treatment of early lesions is surgical. Low dose irradiation appears to be an effective alternative to extensive surgery in treating advanced juvenile angiofibroma. Morbidity has been minimal. Residual changes are seen in subsequent imaging studies but have remained stable with long follow-up.
Protein-Centric Meals for Optimal Protein Utilization: Can It Be That Simple?

Translating research findings into evidence-based dietary guidance to promote longevity while simultaneously preventing the onset, slowing the progression, or managing the loss of muscle mass, or sarcopenia, with aging is an elusive pursuit. During the past decade, an increasing number of studies have targeted nutrition-specific interventions that might offset the increasing prevalence of sarcopenia given the health consequences of reduced muscle mass and the associated declines in muscle strength. These changes constitute a prequel to loss of muscle function that predisposes older men and women to falls and fractures that can substantially affect quality of life and be potentially fatal. From a practical point of view, identifying a pivotal dietary component that can potentially enhance the maintenance of muscle mass into later years is a worthwhile venture. Indeed, data suggest that higher protein consumption may serve as a countermeasure to losses in muscle mass during aging, thereby preserving muscle strength and function. In their article ‘‘Dietary protein distribution positively influences 24-h muscle protein synthesis in healthy adults’’ in
Update on clinical practice recommendations and new therapeutic modalities for treating anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease

Purpose. The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) clinical practice recommendations for treating anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the dosing, route and frequency of administration, efficacy, and safety of currently available and investigational drug therapies for anemia in patients with CKD, including the erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) iron replacement, and adjuvants, are described. Summary. The NKF recommendations for ESA use are general and include dosing based on the measured and target hemoglobin concentrations, the rate of increase in hemoglobin, and clinical circumstances, with the route and frequency of administration determined by the CKD stage, treatment setting, efficacy, and ESA class. A serum ferritin concentration of 100–500 ng/mL is the target during oral and intravenous (i.v.) iron therapy for predialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients, but use of the i.v. route of administration and a target serum ferritin concentration of 200–500 ng/mL is recommended for hemodialysis patients by NKF. Iron deficiency and inflammation are possible causes of inadequate response to ESAs. The safety profile of epoetin alfa and darbepoetin alfa are similar, but the longer half-life of darbepoetin alfa permits administration on a once-monthly basis in patients with CKD and anemia. Extended dosing of CERA also appears safe and effective in dialysis patients with CKD. Several investigational anemia therapies with a variety of mechanisms of action are in development. Conclusion. Efforts by the NKF to update their clinical practice recommendations provide clinicians with insight into the optimal therapeutic approach to treating anemia in patients with CKD. Clinical research has resulted in the development of new therapeutic modalities to improve outcomes in patients with CKD and anemia.
Contemporary development and economic history : how do we know what matters?

ABSTRACT “Development” involves increases in human and physical capital, plus institutional changes, that are characteristic of whole societies, not just particular sectors. Such changes are not necessarily well-reflected in GDP figures at the time that these changes are occurring – even assuming that we can measure GDP in historical societies with sufficient accuracy. Consequently, types of largely narrative long-run history focused on one or a few case studies are a vital supplement to more econometric and formally-modeled studies. They are particularly useful as correctives to historical work that aims at finding a single variable or event separating cases of developmental “success” and “failure.” However, the claims that emerge from such case studies are quite hard to verify. The article uses examples drawn from East Asia at certain moments a possible example of “failure,” but more recently assumed to be an example of “success” – to both identify historical findings that might have implications for co...
Types and frequency of child maltreatment by family foster care providers in an urban population

Types and frequency of child abuse and neglect reports in family foster care in Baltimore, Maryland as compared to reports among nonfoster families are reported. Data on maltreatment incidents in foster homes were abstracted from Child Protective Services investigation records for the years 1984-1988. Comparisons were made to community reports. Results indicated that foster families had over a three-fold increased frequency of maltreatment reports as compared to nonfoster families. Report frequency was highest for physical abuse with a seven-fold risk of report as compared to nonfoster families. Overall, 20% of foster care reports were substantiated as compared to 35% of nonfoster reports, although the risk of having a substantiated report was significantly higher in foster care. The distribution of report types in foster care differed from those in the community with physical abuse the most frequent allegation in foster care, as compared to neglect as the most frequent allegation in the community. Explanations for these findings including differences in criteria for report and substantiation are advanced.
Determination of the mechanical properties of amorphous Ni-Cr-P alloys

The mechanical properties of Ni(80-x) Cr(x) P(20) amorphous alloys (with x=0–40 at % in steps of 5 at %), produced by melt spinning, have been determined. The amorphous nature of the alloys was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that the crystallization temperatures increased with increasing chromium content. Microhardness measurements, made on both the wheel and free sides of the as-cast ribbons, revealed the presence of a gradient in hardness through the thickness of the specimens. Dynamic Young's modulus was measured with the piezoelectric ultrasonic composite oscillator technique and tensile fracture strengths were determined by uniaxial tensile testing of selected ribbons. Correlations were developed among the various properties to gain an insight into the structure/properties relations for these materials.
Quantitation of immunogold labeling

Abstract Most of the published, quantitative immunogold labeling studies do not reflect the true concentration of antigen in a given cell compartment. Presently, the majority of the data on labeling density provides a potential way to follow the distribution of antigens, but does not indicate the quantitative concentration of the antigen present. The majority of the published quantitative data is semiquantitative. Ideal quantitative data must relate the intensity of the immunoreaction to the concentration of the underlying antigen population. Since this requirement is not fulfilled by most of the available methods, caution is warranted in interpreting the immunogold quantitative data. The difficulty in obtaining reproducible quantitative data is also due to the fact that preparatory procedures are quantitatively unknown parameters with respect to quantitative immunogold postembedding and preembedding labeling.
Adenylate kinase in human tissue. II. Serum adenylate kinase and myocardial infarction.

Abstract Serum adenylate kinase was measured in 116 patients. An elevated level of serum adenylate kinase correlated well with myocardial infarctions and some other conditions associated with necrotising lesions. By taking advantage of the organ specificity of adenylate kinase, it was determined that a large portion of serum adenylate kinase activity derives from the liver during the early stages of a myocardial infarction. The serum lactic dehydrogenase also appears to derive from the liver to a large extent during the early stages of myocardial infarct. The results suggest that serum adenylate kinase, in conjunction with other evidence, offers a sensitive detector of myocardial infarcts and a useful monitor to follow the course of patient recovery.
Effective property of tooth enamel: Monoclinic behavior

Human tooth enamel possesses a unique morphology characterized by a repeated cell arrangement, which is composed of varying orientations of hydroxyapatite crystals. In the past, various investigators have reported diverse mechanical properties based on isotropic or orthotropic mechanical models in their experimental and numerical studies. However, these models are insufficient to capture the accurate microstructural effects on the enamel mechanical response. In this paper, a monoclinic anisotropic model, which offers correct descriptions of enamel deformation behaviors, is introduced. The model takes into account the 3D orientation changes of the hydroxyapatite crystals and their spatial elastic property variations. The proposed approach is based on a unit-cell and periodic boundary conditions, and it utilizes the collective deformation characteristics of many rods to determine 13 independent material constants required for the monoclinic model. These constants are necessary to utilize the effective property model to study various mechanical conditions such as abrasion, erosion, wear and fracture of whole tooth enamel.
Buckling of a thin-layer Couette flow

We analyse the buckling stability of a thin, viscous sheet when subject to simple shear, providing conditions for the onset of the dominant out-of-plane modes using two models: (i) an asymptotic theory for the dynamics of a viscous plate, and (ii) the full Stokes equations. In either case, the plate is stabilized by a combination of viscous resistance, surface tension and buoyancy relative to an underlying denser fluid. In the limit of vanishing thickness, plates buckle at a shear rate independent of buoyancy, where is the plate thickness, is the average surface tension between the upper and lower surfaces, and is the fluid viscosity. For thicker plates stabilized by an equal surface tension at the upper and lower surfaces, at and above onset, the most unstable mode has moderate wavelength, is stationary in the frame of the centreline, spans the width of the plate with crests and troughs aligned at approximately to the walls, and closely resembles elastic shear modes. The thickest plates that can buckle have an aspect ratio (thickness/width) of approximately 0.6 and are stabilized only by internal viscous resistance. We show that the viscous plate model can only accurately describe the onset of buckling for vanishingly thin plates but provides an excellent description of the most unstable mode above onset. Finally, we show that, by modifying the plate model to incorporate advection and make the model material-frame-invariant, it is possible to extend its predictive power to describe relatively short, travelling waves.
Patient Responsiveness to Therapist Values and Outcome in Group Cognitive Therapy

This study examined the relations between therapy outcome and the following predictor variables: the initial similarity of patient and therapist values; patient responsivity/sensitivity to therapist values; value convergence; changes in dysfunctional beliefs; and patients' ability to identify their therapists' values. Depressed older adults (n = 29) were randomly assigned to cognitive therapy (CT) or to a pharmacotherapy/supportive therapy condition. Responsiveness to therapist values was significantly related to improvement in depression, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory. Initial value similarity was associated with value convergence. Subjects in the CT condition evidenced greater value convergence and more accurately identified therapist values than those in the pharmacotherapy condition.
Protection by N-acetylcysteine of cyclophosphamide metabolism - related invivo depression of mixed function oxygenase activity and invitro denaturation of cytochrome P-450

Abstract Cyclophosphamide (CP) at high or repeated doses results in the depression of mixed function oxygenase activities of the liver. Recent studies have attributed this to the interaction between acrolein, a metabolite of CP, and sulfhydryl groups in cytochrome P-450. The present report demonstrates the protection afforded by N-acetylcysteine against acrolein-induced denaturation of cytochrome P-450 in vitro and CP-related depression of mixed function oxygenase in vivo . Co-administration of CP and innocuous chemicals that provide free sulfhydryl groups should, in the future, be useful in enhancing the therapeutic index of CP by either reducing some of the toxicity and/or by allowing the use of repeated treatment with lower but effective doses of CP.
On the existence of interstitial clustering of oxygen in Nb-O solid solutions

Abstract The results of four studies which report conflicting interpretations of elastic after-effect measurements for Nb-O alloys and thus introduce controversy concerning whether interstitial oxygen atoms in niobium interact to form pairs, triplets and larger atomic clusters, have been re-analyzed. The method of analysis is a newly-developed technique which directly obtains an approximation of the relaxation time spectrum from the relaxation response curve without prior assumptions as to the form of the spectrum. The results of this re-analysis provide further strong evidence that oxygen atoms in niobium combine to form pairs, triplets and larger atomic clusters.
Surgical considerations for elderly urologic oncology patients

In light of the aging population and the high incidence of urologic malignancies in the elderly in the United States, we review issues surrounding radical urologic surgery in the elderly. Specifically, we examine the safety, efficacy, techniques, and special concerns related to elderly patients. We found in multiple series that well selected, elderly patients can safely undergo major, extirpative urologic surgery with acceptable morbidity, comparable to their younger counterparts. Tools, such as the ASA score, Karnofsky index, and Charlson index may help guide patient selection and counseling.
Forty years and counting...

With this issue, Kidney International is 40 years old, a number that represents maturity—maturity not only of a journal but of a field, since KI was present, one can say, at the creation of modern nephrology. Forty may not be a traditional celebratory age like 5, 10, 25, or 50; but it has a magical cachet, being the sacred number of Enki, the Sumerian god of creation, who made “the waters of the heart flow” and created humankind in his image. It is for this reason that 40 has so many implications in the ancient world, whether it is 40 years in the desert or the importance of 40 days in the age of babies. Passing such landmarks allows one to “put away childish things.” Numerology aside, it provides a good occasion to look back at the creation of modern nephrology. However, one should not anthropomorphize journals, for they do not have a childhood, nor do they become weak and decrepit with maturity. Rather, many maintain their high level of energy, if and only if the community that supports them is vigorous. Such support implies the submission of the community's best work to the journal, and, as importantly, the recondite duties of citizenship that are hidden behind the veil of anonymity, such as reviewing for the journal. The journal has been lucky in these matters, and the editors are grateful to all authors and reviewers for their confidence.
The Healing of the Thin-Walled Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Vascular Graft

The objective of this experiment was to investigate the healing of thin-walled reinforced expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) vascular graft (thin graft) .In 12 dogs (30-35 kgm), a 4 cm segment of each common iliac artery was excised and replaced with an equal length of PTFE vascular graft, 6mm internal diameter. Standard graft was used on one side and thin graft on the other. Dogs were sacrificed at intervals up to 12 weeks.Pannus extension started at both ends after the first week. The degree of pannus extension and pannus thickness showed no difference between both grafts at each interval. It was covered by a monolayer of endothelial-like cells as seen by scanning electron microscopy. Anastomotic hyperplasia and the growth rates of endothelialization measured from the proximal anastomosis were simi lar.No significant difference was noted in the healing between the thin-walled and standard PTFE vascular grafts for up to 12 weeks.
Carbenic Reactions of 4‐Diazo‐4H‐imidazole with Benzene Derivatives.

Abstract The electrophilic behavior of 4 H -imidazolylidene is greatly modified by coordinating groups in benzene derivatives undergoing substitution.
Micromagnetic domain structures in cylindrical nickel dots

The magnetic domain structures of cylindrical nickel dots (diameters from 40 nm to 1700 nm) with anisotropy parallel to the cylinder axis is predicted by the ratio of the dot diameter to the stripe period of unpatterned films with the same perpendicular anisotropy. The dominant domain structure for a given ratio increases in complexity as the ratio increases. We present evidence for the full micromagnetic domain structure for the simplest cases.
The Visual Display of Quantitative Information

(1987). The Visual Display of Quantitative Information. Technometrics: Vol. 29, No. 1, pp. 118-119.
The case for video games in libraries

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a case for including and expanding the use of video gaming in the library to support the educational, recreational and democratizing goals of the institution.Design/methodology/approach – An examination of traditional models of the understanding of libraries and how video games fit into the picture.Findings – Video games can be seen to support educational, recreational and democratizing goals of the library.Practical implications – While many public libraries in the USA use video games for a variety of purposes, there are still many librarians who resist the trend. Even those who see the value of gaming in the library often have a limited view about how video games can be used in the library setting.Originality/value – This paper examines video games in contexts beyond the recreational and young adult uses.
Treatment perspectives for the lysosomal storage diseases.

Background: The therapy of the lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) was developed by supplying adequate amounts of the needed enzyme to affected individuals. This approach in Gaucher disease provided a prototype for the basic and clinical sciences, and the economic foundation for other ultra-orphan diseases. Objective: Using the success of enzyme therapy for Gaucher disease, the challenges are highlighted for alternative bioproduction systems, and substrate reduction and molecular chaperone approaches for treatment of Gaucher disease and other ultra-orphan diseases. Methods: Literature review provided insight into the current status of enzyme therapies for LSDs, the proposed mechanisms of alternative approaches to therapy, and the obstacles in a competitive marketplace for treatment of ultra-rare diseases. Results/conclusions: These developments are placed in the contexts of finding rare patients with LSDs, their marked phenotypic spectrum, potential markets, and new orphan drug costs. The confluence of thes...
DNA Repair Proteins as Molecular Therapeutics for Oxidative and Alkylating Lung Injury

Endogenous and environmental oxidation is increasingly becoming an important factor associated with numerous disorders in both children and adults. The lung is particularly prone to oxidation, as the gas exchange organ is continuously exposed to a great deal of airborne oxidants. Lung oxidation-induced toxicity is a critical clinical problem that is currently lacking cure. For example, treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a common type of acute diffuse lung injury, is strictly supportive. Alkylating chemotherapeutics and many methyl chemicals can cause acute or chronic lung injury, which is also difficult to treat. Many new approaches are being tried to improve the treatment of lung oxidation and alkylation; one of these is the use of DNA repair proteins, such as base excision repair proteins that are largely involved in repairing DNA damage caused by oxidation and alkylation. Recent advances have revealed their promising potential for treating oxidation toxicity. Here we discuss discoveries that have led to this possibility, including pioneering research into the cellular signaling transduction and molecular mechanisms of DNA repair proteins. In conclusion, when combined with other therapeutic measures such as anti-oxidant chemicals and enzymes, DNA repair proteins may have great potential for treating acute and chronic lung toxicity induced by oxidation and alkylation.
Descending Tumor Thrombus from Renal Cell Carcinoma Metastases with SVC Syndrome

We describe a case of renal cell carcinoma metastases to the thyroid gland invading local veins and extending to the neck veins causing superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome.
Electron beam chemistry of polyvinylpyridinium salts

Various polyvinylpyridinium salts have been studied under electron beam. The relationship between electron beam sensitivities and chemical structural variables of polyvinylpyridinium salts has been studied by conventional scanning electron microscopy. Several possible mechanisms of radiation-induced solubility change in the polyvinylpyridine system have been discussed. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Carbamazepine-induced constipation

We report three patients who developed constipation as an adverse effect of carbamazepine (CBZ) therapy. Constipation occurred within a few days of CBZ introduction, resolved after CBZ discontinuation, and was not dose-responsive. It was refractory to the concomitant use of oral laxatives in two cases, necessitating CBZ discontinuation. In a third patient, constipation was controlled by a fiber agent, allowing continuation of CBZ therapy. Potential mechanisms for this idiosyncratic, poorly reported adverse event are discussed.
Electrically and thermally conductive nylon 6,6

Increasing the thermal and electrical conductivity of typically insulating polymers, such as nylon 6,6, opens new markets. A thermally conductive resin can be used for heat sink applications. An electrically conductive resin can be used in static dissipative and Electromagnetic Interference/Radio Frequency Interference shielding applications. This research focused on adding various carbon based conductive fillers and a chopped glass fiber to nylon 6,6. These materials were extruded and injection molded into test specimens. Tensile tests as well as in-plane electrical resistivity, in-plane thermal conductivity, and through-plane thermal conductivity tests were conducted. One successful formulation consisted of 10% 3.2 mm chopped E-glass fiber/15% Thermocarb (high quality synthetic powdered graphite)/5% carbon black/70% nylon 6,6 (all % in wt%). For this formulation, the in-plane electrical resistivity was reduced from 10 15 ohm-cm (neat nylon 6,6) to 15 ohm-cm. The through-plane thermal conductivity increased from 0.25 W/mK (neat nylon 6,6) to 0.7 W/mK. The tensile elongation at failure was 1.4%.
Correlational analysis of changes in children's Easter drawings as a function of a naturally-motivated expectancy

Twenty-eight kindergarten (15 boys and 13 girls) and 20 first-grade (12 boys and 8 girls) children drew 4 pictures of either the Easter bunny or the Easter basket prior to Easter and 2 pictures of the same symbol after Easter. Height and width measures were obtained for each drawing and correlation matrices were constructed individually for age, sex, ordinal position, and symbol – bunny vs. basket. Patterns of change in the drawings as a function of these variables were examined and the correlations in drawing measures were assessed. The results supported the naturally-motivated expectancy hypothesis and suggested some neglected sources of variability in children’s drawings of Easter symbols.
Retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele presenting as dysphagia after atlantooccipital dislocation.

Educational Objective: At the conclusion of this paper, the readers should be able to recognize a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele as a potential complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. Objectives: To demonstrate how a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele may present as dysphagia in a patient who is recovering from atlanto occipital dislocation as well as to discuss the treatment options in this situation. Study Design: Case report and literature review. Methods: Analysis of a case through medical record and literature review. Results: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele is a very rare complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. It may develop weeks after the initial injury and can present with respiratory or swallowing difficulties. Decompression via a ventriculoperitoneal or lumboperitoneal shunt facilitates resolution of the cerebral spinal fluid collection. Conclusions: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele should be considered in all patients status post-atlanto occipital dislocation who are experiencing respiratory distress or dysphagia.
Isozyme Diversity is Low in Paeonia californica (Paeoniaceae)

The California Peony (Paeonia californica), a regional endemic and outcrossing species, is almost completely monomorphic for 23 isozyme loci. The level of genetic diversity in the California Peony is similar to that of narrow endemics and/or self-fertilizing species. This paradoxical result may be explained by either of two hypotheses: 1) low initial polymorphism of the ancestral genome, or 2) population bottle neck.
Electrokinetic behavior of fluoride salts as explained from water structure considerations

Unlike the other silver halides, silver fluoride is positively charged in its saturated solution as determined by nonequilibrium electrophoresis measurements. In the absence of surface hydrolysis reactions, other fluoride salts (LiF, CaF2 , and MgF2 ) also are positively charged in their saturated solutions. Furthermore, the electrokinetic behavior of these fluoride salts is rather insensitive to the fluoride ion activity in neutral or acidic solutions, and reversal of the sign of the surface charge by fluoride addition is not possible. Based on FTIR transmission spectra to describe the water structure of ionic solutions, in situ FTIR/internal reflection spectroscopy (FTIR/IRS) has been used to spectroscopically characterize interfacial water at fluoride salt surfaces. The experimental spectra were examined by consideration of the O-H stretching region (3000-3800 cm-1 ) associated with the vibrational spectra of interfacial water. These results reveal a unique hydration state for fluorides and explain the anomalous electrokinetic behavior of fluoride salts such as LiF, CaF2 , and MgF2 , which show an unexpected insensitivity to the fluoride ion concentration in solution. It appears that this insensitivity is due to the formation of strong hydrogen bonding of the fluoride ions with water molecules. This hydration state prevents the accommodation of excess fluoride ions at surface lattice sites and accounts for the observed electrokinetic behavior.
Mechanical properties and strain fatigue lives of insulation polymers

Insulation polymers are not well characterized for their mechanical properties particularly in terms of fatigue strains. This article aims to examine the durability and strain fatigue lives of three commonly used cable insulation polymers, viz., (1) polyvinyl chloride (PVC), (2) crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE), and (3) polyphenylene ether (PPE) under selected strain and temperature ranges. The tensile properties of these materials were measured using an Instron testing machine at constant and controlled loading rates. Fatigue tests were performed at three selected temperatures, −40, 25, and 65 °C, to characterize the temperature effects on fatigue life. From the tensile test results, it was observed that PVC and XLPE are ductile and exhibit significantly more elongation prior to breaking, while PPE exhibits brittle behavior. When the loading rate is increased, there is an improvement in the tensile strength of PPE and elastic modulus of PPE and PVC. The durability of XLPE under strain fatigue testing was the largest, followed by PVC and PPE. The strain fatigue lives of PVC and XLPE decreased drastically at −40 °C and demonstrated a noted increase at 65 °C compared to fatigue lives at room temperature. This trend was not observed in PPE where the strain fatigue life showed improvement at both lower and higher temperatures.
Novel technique for a single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) approach to cholecystectomy: single-institution case series

Background Multiple case series managed by a single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) approach to cholecystectomy have been published, reporting that this new procedure is easily reproducible and safe. Currently, variations on surgical technique are being tested. This report describes the largest series of single-skin- and single-fascial-incision cholecystectomies using a multichannel port.
Insights on the Excited State Electronic Structures of Ruthenium(II) Polypyridine Complexes Obtained by Step-Scan Fourier Transform Infrared Absorption Difference Time-Resolved Spectroscopy.

Step-scan Fourier transform infrared absorption difference time-resolved spectroscopy (S2FT-IR ΔA TRS) was used to study electronic structure in MLCT excited states of [Ru(bpy)2(4-COOEt-4‘-CH3bpy)]...
Impact of large-scale energy efficiency programs on utility finances and consumer tariffs in India

Abstract The objective of this paper is to analyze the effect on utility finances and consumer tariffs of implementing utility-funded demand-side energy efficiency (EE) programs in India. We use the state of Delhi as a case study. We estimate that by 2015, the electric utilities in Delhi can potentially save nearly 14% of total sales. We examine the impacts on utility finances and consumer tariffs by developing scenarios that account for variations in the following factors: (a) incentive mechanisms for mitigating the financial risk of utilities, (b) whether utilities fund the EE programs only partially, (c) whether utilities sell the conserved electricity into spot markets and (d) the level of power shortages utilities are facing. We find that average consumer tariff would increase by 2.2% although consumers participating in EE programs benefit from reduction in their electricity consumption. While utility incentive mechanisms can mitigate utilities’ risk of losing long-run returns, they cannot address the risk of consistently negative cash flow. In case of power shortages, the cash flow risk is amplified (reaching up to 57% of utilities annual returns) and is very sensitive to marginal tariffs of consumers facing power shortages. We conclude by proposing solutions to mitigate utility risks.
Discovery of Potent and Selective Urea-Based ROCK Inhibitors and Their Effects on Intraocular Pressure in Rats

A series of urea-based Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitors were designed and evaluated. The discovered compounds had excellent enzyme and cellular potency, high kinase selectivity, high aqueous solubility, good porcine corneal penetration, and appropriate DMPK profiles for topical applications as antiglaucoma therapeutics.
Liver volume in the cirrhotic patient: does size matter?

Background While it is established that cirrhosis results in a decrease in liver volume (LV), whether LV itself predicts patient survival is unknown. We hypothesize that estimated LV is an important prognostic indicator in patients with cirrhosis.
Characterization of Ultrasonic B-Scans Using Non-Rayleigh Statistics

The envelope of the ultrasonic echo backscattered from tissues is modeled using non-Rayleigh statistics, namely the K-distribution. We show that the K-distribution can be used to describe the envelope of the echo, and its parameters may be used to distinguish between different regions in ultrasonic B-scan images. The validity of the model is tested using phantoms. Preliminary results indicate that the parameters of the K-distribution may be used to separate targets, in which the number of scatterers or the scattering cross-sections differ from that of the background. The method of employing the parameters of the K-distribution appears to be better than the methods based solely on the signal-to-noise ratio.
Recent developments in anisotropic elasticity

Anisotropic elasticity has been an active research subject for the last thirty years due to its applications to composite materials. There are essentially two formalisms for two-dimensional deformations of a general anisotropic elastic material. The Lekhnitskii formalism [Lekhnitskii, S.G., 1950. Theory of Elasticity of an Anisotropic Elastic Body. Gostekhizdat, Moscow (in Russian)] has been the favorite among the engineering community, while the newer Stroh formalism is well-known in the material sciences, applied mathematics and physics community. The Stroh formalism (Stroh, A.N., 1958. Dislocations and cracks in anisotropic elasticity. Phil. Mag. 3, 625–646.) is mathematically elegant and technically powerful. It began to be noticed by the engineering community in recent years, specially among the younger researchers. A comprehensive treatment of both formalisms and applications of the theory have been presented in a book by Ting. Since the appearance of the book in 1996, there have been several new developments in the theory and applications of anisotropic elasticity. We present here new results that have appeared since 1996. Only linear anisotropic elasticity is considered here; for nonlinear elasticity, the reader is referred to the book by Antman (Antman, S.S., 1995. Nonlinear Problems in Elasticity. Springer–Verlag, New York).
Cells determine cell density using a small protein bound to a unique tissue-specific phospholipid

Cell density is the critical parameter controlling tendon morphogenesis. Knowing its neighbors allows a cell to regulate correctly its proliferation and collagen production. A missing link to understanding this process is a molecular description of the sensing mechanism. Previously, this mechanism was shown in cell culture to rely on a diffusible factor (SNZR [sensor]) with an affinity for the cell layer. This led to purifying conditioned medium over 4 columns and analyzing the final column fractions for band intensity on SDS gels versus biological activity - a 16 kD band strongly correlated between assays. N-terminal sequencing - EPLAVVDL - identified a large gene (424 AA), extremely conserved between chicken and human. In this paper we probe whether this is the correct gene. Can the predicted large protein be cleaved to a smaller protein? EPLAVVDL occurs towards the C-terminus and cleavage would create a small 94 AA protein. This protein would run at ∼10 kD, so what modifications or cofactor binding accounts for its running at 16 kD on SDS gels? This protein has no prominent hydrophobic regions, so can it be secreted? To validate its role, the chicken cDNA for this gene was tagged with myc and his and transfected into a human osteosarcoma cell line (U2OS). U2OS cells expressed the gene but not passively: differentiating into structures resembling spongy bone and expressing alkaline phosphatase, an early bone marker. Intracellularly, two bands were observed by Western blotting: the full length protein and a smaller form (26 kD). Outside the cell, a small band (28 kD) was detected, although it was 40% larger than expected, as well as multiple larger bands. These larger forms could be converted to the predicted smaller protein (94 AA + tags) by changing salt concentrations and ultrafiltering - releasing a cofactor to the filtrate while leaving a protein factor in the retentate. Using specific degradative enzymes and mass spectrometry, the bone cofactor was identified as a lipid containing a ceramide phosphate, a single chained glycerol lipid and a linker. Tendon uses a different cofactor made up of two fatty acid chains linked directly to the phosphate yielding a molecule about half the size. Moreover, adding the tendon factor/cofactor to osteosarcoma cells causes them to stop growing, which is opposite to its role with tendon cells. Thus, the cofactor is cell type specific both in composition and in the triggered response. Further support of its proposed role came from frozen sections from 5 week old mice where an antibody to the factor stained strongly at the growing ends of the tendon as predicted. In conclusion, the molecule needed for cell density signaling is a small protein bound to a unique, tissue-specific phospholipid yielding a membrane associated but diffusible molecule. Signal transduction is postulated to occur by an increased ordering of the plasma membrane as the concentration of this protein/lipid increases with cell density.
Implementation fidelity of MyTeachingPartner literacy and language activities: Association with preschoolers’ language and literacy growth.

Abstract There is surprisingly little empirical research examining issues of fidelity of implementation within the early childhood education literature. In the MyTeachingPartner project, 154 teachers were provided with materials to implement a supplemental classroom curriculum addressing six aspects of literacy and language development. The present study examines the degree of variability in three aspects of implementation fidelity – dosage, adherence, and quality of delivery – and whether these components of fidelity were associated with children's growth in language and literacy skills across the preschool year. Findings indicate that teachers reported using the curriculum fairly often (dosage) and that they were observed to generally follow curricular lesson plans (adherence). In contrast, the quality of delivery, defined as the use of evidence-based teacher–child interactions for teaching literacy and language, was much lower. Children in classrooms in which activities were observed to last for longer (dosage) and in which teachers exhibited higher quality of delivery of literacy lessons made significantly greater gains in early literacy skills across the preschool year. Also, teachers’ use of higher quality language interactions was associated with gains for children who did not speak English at home. Results have implications for teacher professional development and the supports provided to ensure that curricula are delivered most effectively.
A complete proof of global exponential convergence of a neural network for quadratic optimization with bound constraints

Sudharsanan and Sundareshan developed (1991) a neural-network model for bound constrained quadratic minimization and proved the global exponential convergence of their proposed neural network. The global exponential convergence is a critical property of the synthesized neural network for solving the optimization problem successfully. However, Davis and Pattison (1992) presented a counterexample to show that the proof given by Sudharsanan and Sundareshan for the global exponential convergence of the neural network is not correct. Bouzerdoum and Pattison (ibid., vol.4, no.2, p.293-303, 1993) then generalized the neural-network model given by Sudharsanan and Sundareshan and derived the global exponential convergence of the neural network under an appropriate condition. In this letter, we demonstrate through an example that the global exponential convergence condition given by Bouzerdoum and Pattison is not always satisfied by the quadratic minimization problem and show that the neural-network model under the global exponential convergence condition given by Bouzerdoum and Pattison is essentially restricted to contractive networks. Subsequently, a complete proof of the global exponential convergence of the neural-network models proposed by Sudharsanan and Sundareshan and Bouzerdoum and Pattison is given for the general case, without resorting to the global exponential convergence condition given by Bouzerdoum and Pattison. An illustrative simulation example is also presented.
Theoretical studies of inelastic atomic collisions in a two-state model problem

A two-state scattering problem in which two non-crossing Morse curves are coupled by an exponential potential is discussed theoretically in both the diabatic and adiabatic approximations. Inelastic cross sections are estimated by various approximate analytical formulas, which are expressed in terms of the distorted wave matrix elements. The Landau (steepest descent) method is applied to estimate the distorted wave matrix element. The previously proposed separable potential approximation in the adiabatic method is found to be best among others by comparing with the exact numerical results. Transition probability as a function of l (angular momentum of relative motion) is well reproduced by this approximation. A glory effect in the velocity dependence of the cross section is found in the low energy region, and the adiabatic approximation reproduces this undulation phenomenon well.