cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Introduction to the Special Section on Nanostructured Materials for Tissue Regeneration

Nanostructured biomaterials afford a unique opportunity to engineer constructs that can directly influence the behavior and fate of cells, tissues, and organs. The intrinsic utility of these materials for biomedical applications is grounded in the ability to match characteristic length scales of natural physiologic sub-cellular structures in engineered constructs with nanoscale features that directly impact cell function. Designing biomaterials to interface and stimulate specific cellular activities provides a basis for numerous high-impact applications in regenerative medicine, including bioactive materials that direct wound healing and guide tissue regeneration. These systems can take the form of particles, fibers, meshes, foams, and scaffolds that feature nanostructured components as a potent cue. Embedded nanostructures can ultimately direct cell behavior by virtue of interactions such as modulated protein ad- sorption, receptor-ligand binding, and contact guidance. This Special Section addresses many aspects of these aforementioned cell-nanomaterial interactions in the context of biomaterials. Specifically, the articles in this Special Section focus on the design and evaluation of nanostructured biomaterials with an emphasis on improving the efficacy of tissue regeneration strategies.
Continuous Lactose Hydrolysis in Fixed-Bed and Expanded-Bed Reactors Containing Catalytic Resins

Kinetics studies of lactose hydrolysis in a continuous fixed-bed column reactor containing catalytic resins showed that the reaction was first order. The Q10 value between 85 and 95°C was 4.08 and estimated activation energy was 36.9 Kcal/mole. Operational difficulties occurred when deproteinated whey was used as the substrate for the above process. Therefore, an expanded-bed process was developed to hydrolyze deproteinated whey. Acid was also added to the deproteinated whey to enhance the functionality of catalytic resin. The modified process improved reaction rate and facilitated process operation. At 95°C, 99% of the lactose in whey was hydrolyzed within 3 hr of residence time when the substrate was acidified with concentrated nitric acid to a final acid concentration of 0.6N.
A graphical user interface psychometric meta-analysis program for DOS

MetaDOS is a Pascal program that provides a user-friendly, Windows-type interface for DOS systems. Its statistical procedures basically follow those developed by Hunter and Schmidt and their colleagues.
A Systematic Review of Carcinogenic Outcomes and Potential Mechanisms from Exposure to 2,4-D and MCPA in the Environment

Chlorophenoxy compounds, particularly 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy)acetic acid (MCPA), are amongst the most widely used herbicides in the United States for both agricultural and residential applications. Epidemiologic studies suggest that exposure to 2,4-D and MCPA may be associated with increased risk non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL), Hodgkin’s disease (HD), leukemia, and soft-tissue sarcoma (STS). Toxicological studies in rodents show no evidence of carcinogenicity, and regulatory agencies worldwide consider chlorophenoxies as not likely to be carcinogenic or unclassifiable as to carcinogenicity. This systematic review assembles the available data to evaluate epidemiologic, toxicological, pharmacokinetic, exposure, and biomonitoring studies with respect to key cellular events noted in disease etiology and how those relate to hypothesized modes of action for these constituents to determine the plausibility of an association between exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of 2,4-D and MCPA and lymphohematopoietic cancers. The combined evidence does not support a genotoxic mode of action. Although plausible hypotheses for other carcinogenic modes of action exist, a comparison of biomonitoring data to oral equivalent doses calculated from bioassay data shows that environmental exposures are not sufficient to support a causal relationship. Genetic polymorphisms exist that are known to increase the risk of developing NHL. The potential interaction between these polymorphisms and exposures to chlorophenoxy compounds, particularly in occupational settings, is largely unknown.
Low temperature steam reforming of methanol over layered double hydroxide-derived catalysts

The catalytic production of hydrogen by steam reforming of methanol (SRM) has been carried out over Mg/Al, Cu/Al, Co/Al, and Ni/Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs). The catalytic reactions were performed at temperatures of 150-400 C and atmospheric pressure. The most efficient catalyst was the Cu/Al LDH, which became active at {approx}230 C, with concomitant H{sub 2} production. The Ni/Al and Co/Al LDHs were also active in SRM, however, the activation temperature was significantly higher (315-320 C). No catalytic activity was observed for the Mg/Al LDH. Significant LDH decomposition occurred during the catalytic reactions. The reducibility of the divalent cations present in the LDH was a crucial parameter in determining the steam reforming activity of the catalysts. Pre-activation of the Cu/Al LDH by calcination in air (400 C), followed by reduction in dilute H2, did not significantly change the catalytic activity. The onset of H2 production was slightly lower for the pre-activated versus as-prepared Cu/Al LDH ({approx}218 C), also the CH{sub 3}OH conversion was 5-10% lower.
H II Regions and Abundances in the “Dark Galaxy” DDO 154 and the Chemical Evolution of Dwarf Irregular Galaxies*

We present Hα imaging and optical spectrophotometry of H II regions in the low surface brightness dwarf irregular galaxy DDO 154. The galaxy possesses a very small population of faint discrete H II regions and larger diffuse H II regions and ionized shells. We confirm the very low star formation rate and extremely long gas consumption times reported previously by van Zee, Haynes, & Salzer. The current star formation rate is ~2–4 times lower than its average past rate, confirming the previous characterization of DDO 154 as a "quiescent" dwarf irregular galaxy. Spectrophotometry of two of the brightest H II regions yields a relatively low oxygen abundance of 0.055 ± 0.008 (O/H)⊙, in agreement with the previous determination by van Zee et al., and in accordance with the previously determined metallicity-luminosity relationship for dwarf irregular galaxies. We also find an N/O ratio of 0.037 ± 0.003, which is marginally higher than the typical value of 0.025 found in low-metallicity blue compact galaxies. Although DDO 154 has been labeled "the dark galaxy" and is a prototype for low surface brightness galaxies with large H I content, its chemical abundances are consistent with an average, low-mass, dwarf irregular galaxy. Assuming that the neutral gas is chemically homogeneous, we derive an effective oxygen yield of roughly 50% of the solar value, a value that is close to the theoretically favored values for the true oxygen yield. Thus, it is possible that DDO 154 is evolving nearly as a closed system. On the other hand, if the abundances in the extended H I disk are lower than in the H II regions, the derived value of the effective yield has been artificially inflated, and DDO 154 may have experienced significant loss of metal-enriched gas.
Hereditary ectodermal dysplasia of the anhidrotic type associated with primary hypogonadism

Abstract Two cases of hereditary ectodermal dysplasia of the anhidrotic type are described. There was associated primary hypogonadism. The mode of inheritance of this syndrome is reviewed. It appears that a sex-linked recessive gene which is sometimes incompletely recessive would account for most of the published cases. The pedigree of our patients is compatible with this type of transmission but also could be explained by a dominant gene with incomplete penetrance or by a non-sex-linked recessive gene.
USE OF PENICILLAMIME IN LOW-LEVEL LEAD POISONING

We evaluated D-penicillamine (PCN) to determine its efficacy in low-level plumbism (25-40 mcg/dl). Two groups were compared: Cases (n=84) were treated with PCN; controls (n=37) received no chelation therapy. Patients were followed at regular intervals for a mean of 200 days; none had received chelation therapy for 3 months prior to study entry. Mean PCN dose was 27.5 mg/kg/d. In 64 cases (76%) lead levels (LL) were normalized. There were eight cases of treatment failure, Controls had no significant change in LL (mean LL 33± 2 mcg/dl) over the observation period. PCN was associated with an adverse reaction in 33%. Side effects included leukopenia in 10%, rash in 8%, enuresis in 4% and gastrointestinal distress in 2%. Therapy was prematurely terminated in 8 patients due to an adverse reaction. We conclude that PCN is effective therapy for low-level plumbism although it has significant side effects. PCN should be considered a viable treatment option for low-level lead poisoning.
Nested sublanguages of Algol 68 for teaching purposes

Two sequences of nested sublanguages of Algol 68 suitable for use in teaching introductory programming are proposed. "A68/k" is a sequence of twelve sublanguages suitable for use in an educational context where the learning of Algol 68 per se is considered important. "SA/k" is a sequence of eight sublanguages suitable for use in a context where the aim is to teach the principles of good programming with minimal concern for the purely linguistic aspects. SA/k is claimed to be superior to other teaching languages such as Pascal.
Decision support systems unfrastructure: The root problems of the management of changing IT

Rapidly emerging IT underpins decision support systems, but research has yet to explain the IT management challenges of such rapid change. This study sought to understand the problems of rapid IT change and the interrelationships between them. It used structured interviews with 16 IT professionals and 246 useable responses from a survey of 1000 such professionals. After identifying five problem categories, it proposed and tested theory that Vendor Competitiveness leads to Poor Quality, Incompatibility, and Management Confusion, and these increase Training Demands. Besides the theory, the research contributes a survey instrument and focal points to help IT managers better provide the infrastructure for DSS.
Cultural and Contextual Influences on Parenting in Mexican American Families

Family stress theory can explain associations between contextual stressors and parenting. However, the theory has not been tested among Mexican Americans or expanded to include cultural-contextual risks. This study examined associations between neighborhood, economic, and acculturative stressors and parenting behaviors in a sample of 570 two-parent Mexican American families. Results support the negative impact of economic stress on parenting through parental depressive symptoms. Neighborhood stress influenced fathers' depressive symptoms and parenting, but not mothers'. The effects of acculturative stress were inconsistent. Results suggest that contextual stressors common to Mexican American families impact parenting behaviors through parental depression.
Kawabata Yasunari's House of the sleeping beauties, retold: the case of Kirino Natsuo's Sleep in water, dream in ashes

Abstract In Sleep in water, dream in ashes, mystery writer Kirino Natsuo crafts a reinterpretation of Kawabata Yasunari's House of the Sleeping Beauties that transforms the author's erotic fantasy into a gritty whodunit that also functions as a critique of the earlier novel. This article shows how Kawabata erects textual barriers in his 1961 novel to preserve a sense of timelessness, and how thirty-four years later Kirino breaks those barriers down, laying bare the muted sexual violence on which the House of the Sleeping Beauties is built by restoring a socio-historical context to the novel's central female figures.
Pregnancy Complicating Diabetes: A Report of Clinical Results

PREGNANCY in the diabetic too often is characterized by fetal wastage and complicated by pre-eclamptic toxemia of premature delivery. Between 1922 and 1939 the case histories in this clinic show that only 62 per cent of the 228 pregnant diabetic women delivered viable infants; 15 per cent of the total number of pregnancies terminating in abortion or miscarriage, 23 per cent in stillbirths or neonatal deaths; these figures are comparable with those reported by others (1–6). If the 35 cases of early abortion are excluded from this series the percentage of viable infants is 74. Because this was essentially the same percentage as that recorded for pregnant diabetic patients prior to the discovery of insulin an investigation of the hormone excretion levels in such cases was undertaken. Between Jan. 1, 1936, and July, 1942, 125 consecutive cases of pregnancies among 119 diabetic patients were studied after the 24th week of pregnancy in order to determine hormone excretion values for gonadotropin and pregnanediol.
Effect of Chelate Ring Size on the Rate of Hydride Transfer from CpRu(P−P)H (P−P = Chelating Diphosphine) to an Iminium Cation

The rate constants for hydride transfer from CpRu(P−P)H (P−P = bis(diphenylphosphino)methane (dppm), bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe), bis(diphenylphosphino)benzene (dpbz), or bis(diphenylphosphino)propane (dppp)) to 1-(1-phenylethylidene)pyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate have been measured. The bite angles of the hydride complexes CpRu(dppm)H, CpRu(dppe)H, CpRu(dpbz)H, and CpRu(dppb)H (dppb = bis(diphenylphosphino)butane) have been determined by X-ray diffraction. Hydride transfer is faster when the chelate ring of the diphosphine is smaller (i.e., CpRu(dppm)H > CpRu(dppe)H ≈ CpRu(dpbz)H > CpRu(dppp)H ≫ CpRu(dppb)H). Boiling CpRu(PPh3)2Cl with dpbz in benzene or toluene results in the formation of [CpRu(PPh3)(η2-dpbz)]Cl as well as CpRu(dpbz)Cl.
Authority, Autonomy, and Ambivalence: Moral Choice in Twentieth-Century Commencement Speeches

This paper examines whether moral individualism has become a public moral philosophy by tracking changes in the ritualized rhetoric of moral choice in twentieth-century college commencement speeches. Content analysis of 171 speeches reveals that the rhetoric of choice becomes more prevalent and increasingly individualistic during the twentieth century. In addition, the rhetoric of moral choice is found to increasingly emphasize subjective moral autonomy rather than objective moral authority. Despite the importance of individual moral choice in commencement speech rhetoric, expressions of anxiety and ambivalence about the subjective approach to morality indicate unease with the rapid individualization characteristic of our times.
“The selling of the pentagon”: Was CBS the fulbright propaganda machine?

(1971). “The selling of the pentagon”: Was CBS the fulbright propaganda machine? Quarterly Journal of Speech: Vol. 57, No. 3, pp. 266-273.
Heteroepitaxial growth of the intrinsic vacancy semiconductor Al 2 Se 3 on Si(111): Initial structure and morphology

The evolution of nanostructure morphology and local chemical environment during heteroepitaxial growth of aluminum selenide on Si(111) was investigated with scanning tunneling microscopy and high-resolution photoemission spectroscopy. Despite the strong similarity to GaSe in atomic and electronic structure during deposition of the first AlSe bilayer, subsequent growth is quite different---resulting in an alternating Al-Se-Al-Se stacking sequence consistent with defected-wurtzite-structure ${\text{Al}}_{2}{\text{Se}}_{3}$. The first bilayer is completed on a given terrace before the second layer nucleates, but subsequent layers nucleate before completion of the second layer. The surfaces of well-formed ${\text{Al}}_{x}{\text{Se}}_{y}$ islands are smooth and terminated by Se atoms; Al then sticks before additional Se, resulting in rougher incomplete islands with Al-rich disordered surfaces. Growth with extra Al in the incident flux does not result in layered AlSe and induces only subtle differences in film morphology.
Reconstructing three-dimensional shape envelopes from time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering data.

Modern computing power has made it possible to reconstruct low-resolution, three-dimensional shapes from solution small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) data on biomolecules without a priori knowledge of the structure. In conjunction with rapid mixing techniques, SAXS has been applied to time resolve conformational changes accompanying important biological processes, such as biomolecular folding. In response to the widespread interest in SAXS reconstructions, their value in conjunction with such time-resolved data has been examined. The group I intron from Tetrahymena thermophila and its P4–P6 subdomain are ideal model systems for investigation owing to extensive previous studies, including crystal structures. The goal of this paper is to assay the quality of reconstructions from time-resolved data given the sacrifice in signal-to-noise required to obtain sharp time resolution.
Using graphic organizers to increase achievement in middle school life science

Educators are constantly searching for teaching procedures that will produce greater cognitive learning and at the same time make learning more appealing. Also, faced with economic problems, educators are looking for techniques that are both inexpensive and effective. The teaching strategy, Graphic Organizers, explained and used in the study reported here, presents information in an organized and structured manner with no expenditures other than paper, pencil, and instructor time. Graphic organizers require minimal training time with teachers, little investment in materials, no investment in equipment, and no change in the existing physical plant. Research conducted (Hawk, 1982; Hawk, McLeod and Jeane, 1981) using graphic organizers has shown them to be significantly beneficial to student achievement.
Specific angiotensin II receptors in organ-cultured canine supra-optic nucleus cells.

Abstract Explants of newborn puppy supra-optic nucleus were organ-cultured for 2–3 weeks, then placed in chambers, and superfused with Kreb's-Henseleit buffer. Using micro-electrodes to record intracellular activity, concentration-dependent spiking activity was elicited from supra-optic nucleus neurones by superfusion with angiotensin II. Specific angiotensin antagonists blocked this activity, but did not block spiking initiated by glutamate or nicotine superfusion. It was concluded that there were specific angiotensin II membrane receptors on supra-optic nucleus neurones.
The William Blake Archive: An Overview

This essay offers an introduction to and summary of The William Blake Archive (WBA) as an online, multimedia, scholarly edition. It covers the history of the WBA's initial online publication in 1996 and then describes the conception and structure of the edition, its editorial principles, and “object-centered” organization, hierarchical structure, and interface. Next the essay surveys the WBA's editorial methods and procedures, including how the resource – which aims for “virtually reunified” corpus – has been produced and managed at The University of Virginia's Institute for Advanced Technology in the Humanities (IATH), and concludes with a look at the method of publication and delivery (including the role of structural markup and the World Wide Web).
Using monte carlo simulation in life cycle assessment for electric and internal combustion vehicles

1 Background The U.S. Government has encouraged shifting from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to alternatively fueled vehicles such as electric vehicles (EVs) for three primary reasons: reducing oil dependence, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing Clean Air Act criteria pollutant emissions. In comparing these vehicles, there is uncertainty and variability in emission factors and performance variables, which cause wide variation in reported outputs.
Detection of adventitial vasa vasorum and intraplaque neovascularization in carotid atherosclerotic lesions with contrast-enhanced ultrasound and their role in atherosclerosis.

INTRODUCTION: The development of new surrogate markers of atherosclerosis is a crucial goal in the clinical setting, as they may allow physicians to recognize unstable lesions early and identify individuals with vulnerable or unstable lesions who bear an increased risk of future cardio--and cerebrovascular complications. These surrogate markers should be capable of being measured noninvasively using safe and reliable methods. Recently, Nambi et al. demonstrated how the combined measurement of carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) and occurrence of carotid plaques improves the risk prediction of cardiovascular outcomes. These results confirm the value of carotid ultrasound (US) when combined with traditional Framingham risk factors in assessing a patient's risk for atherosclerotic disease. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a new imaging approach that is evolving and may become a standard clinical tool for further atherosclerotic risk stratification in the future. The contrast agents used in US imaging are safe, commercially available, and approved for use in echocardiography by the FDA. Thus, CEUS is technically feasible with existing approved commercial equipment and can be performed at the bedside or in an outpatient setting. However, US contrast agents are not yet approved by the FDA for visualization and assessment of the carotid artery and its associated pathologies. The cost effectiveness of CEUS has been shown in the context of gastrointestinal imaging, and CEUS of carotid atherosclerotic lesions is emerging as an approach to complement unenhanced US imaging. By providing the direct visualization of adventitial vasa vasorum (VV) and intraplaque neovascularization, CEUS is capable of depicting two new surrogate markers of atherosclerosis - namely, adventitial VV and intraplaque neovascularization.
The localized crossover and a new hypothesis of chromosomal interference.

Die beiDrosophila beobachtete Herabsetzung der Haufigkeit von Doppelaustausch innerhalb von benachbarten Chromosomenabschnitten lasst sich nicht nur durch die klassische Annahme einer gegenseitigen Interferenz zwischen benachbarten crossing-overs erklaren, sondern kann auch durch das Vorkommen von lokalisierten crossing-overs innerhalb von bestimmten, engbegrenzten Chromosomenregionen bedingt sein.
Secretion of Alpha-2-macroglobulin by human alveolar macrophages.

Cultured human alveolar macrophages were shown to secrete alpha-2-macroglobulin (α2M), a potent inhibitor of bacterial and mammalian proteases. Secretion could be blocked by 2.0 µg/ml cycloheximide, an inhibitor of protein synthesis. Detection of the inhibitor was achieved by radioimmunoelectrophoresis of concentrated culture medium obtained from cells cultured in the presence of35S-methionine. In addition, concentrated culture medium was treated with antihumanα2M antiserum and antigen: antibody complexes were precipitated with protein A-bearing staphylococci. When the precipitate thus formed was dissolved in a reducing buffer and subjected to SDS electrophoresis, a single radioactive peak of about 185,000 daltons was obtained. This molecular weight corresponds closely to the molecular weight of theα2M subunit. Secretion ofα2M by alveolar macrophages may facilitate the internalization and disposal of proteolytic enzymes in the alveolar microenvironment, and thus play an important role in the defense of the lung.
Fractionation of stable carbon isotopes by marine phytoplankton

Stable carbon isotope fractionation by seventeen species of marine phytoplankton, representing the classes of Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Prasinophyceae, Chrysophyceae, Haptophyceae and Dinophyceae have been determined in laboratory culture experiments using bicarbonate enriched artificial sea water. The ΔHCO3− values (ΔHCO3− = δ13C of algae vs HCO3−) range from −22.1 to −35.5%. Nitzschia closterium shows the smallest fractionation of − 22.1% and Isochrysis galbana, the greatest of −35.5%,. Since these algae were cultured under identical laboratory conditions, the wide range of ΔHCO3− values is seemingly due to the presence of different metabolic pathways within these organisms. A temperature dependent fractionation of 0.36% per °C with decreasing temperatures was measured for Skeletonema costatum whereas, smaller temperature dependencies of −0.13, +0.15 and −0.07%. per °C were observed for Dunaliella sp., Monochrysis lutheri and Glenodinium foliaceum, respectively. The consistency of ΔHCO3− values of Skeletonema costatum, Dunaliella sp. and Monochrysis lutheri grown at salinities of 22, 26, 32 and 36% indicates that natural salinity variations have negligible effects on the isotopic composition of marine phytoplankton.
Molecular and atomic oxygen adsorption on the kinked Pt(321) surface

Abstract Oxygen adsorption and desorption were characterized on the kinked Pt(321) surface using high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy, thermal desorption spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. Some dissociation of molecular oxygen occurs even at 100 K on the (321) surface indicating that the activation barrier for dissociation is smaller on the Pt(321) surface than on the Pt(111) surface. Molecular oxygen can be adsorbed at 100 K but only in the presence of some adsorbed atomic oxygen. The dominance of the v (OO) molecular oxygen stretching mode in the 810 to 880 cm −1 range indicates that the molecular oxygen adsorbs as a peroxo-like species with the OO axis parallel or nearly parallel to the surface, as observed previously on the Pt(111) surface [Gland et al., Surface Sci. 95 (1980) 587]. The existence of at least two types of peroxo-like molecular oxygen is suggested by both the unusual breadth of the v (OO) stretching mode and breadth of the molecular oxygen desorption peak. Atomic oxygen is adsorbed more strongly on the rough step sites than on the smooth (111) terraces, as indicated by the increased thermal stability of atomic oxygen adsorbed along the rough step sites. The two forms of adsorbed atomic oxygen can be easily distinguished by vibrational spectroscopy since oxygen adsorbed along the rough step sites causes a v (PtO) stretching mode at 560 cm −1 , while the v (PtO) stretching mode for atomic oxygen adsorbed on the (111) terraces appears at 490 cm −1 , a value typical of the (111) surface. Two desorption peaks are observed during atomic oxygen recombination and desorption from the Pt(321) surface. These desorption peaks do not correlate with the presence of the two types of adsorbed atomic oxygen. Rather, the first order low temperature peak is a result of the fact that about three times more atomic oxygen can be adsorbed on the Pt(321) surface than on the Pt(111) surface (where only a second order peak is observed). The heat of desorption for atomic oxygen decreases from about 290kJ/mol (70 kcal/mol) to about 196 kJ/mol (47 kcal/mol) with increasing coverage. Preliminary results concerning adsorption of molecular oxygen from the gas phase in an excited state are also briefly discussed.
The Effects of Personalized Product Recommendations on Advertisement Response Rates: The “Try This. It Works!” Technique

Three field experiments examined an information processing explanation for the effectiveness of a direct mail persuasion technique. Respondents received an ad in the mail accompanied by a hand-written note of the form, “John, Try this. It works!” and signed using a common initial. In the first experiment, the technique increased (decreased) free sample requests when strong (weak) brand attributes were used. In a second experiment, the attribute quality interaction effect was found only for respondents who could not identify who sent them the ad. Those who knew the sender requested more free samples regardless of the attribute strength of the brand. A third experiment revealed that both the personalization and content of the note contribute to its effectiveness. Theoretical implications are discussed.
Trends in median, ulnar, radial, and brachioplexus nerve injuries in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Injury to the median, ulnar, radial, and brachioplexus nerves can place significant constraints on an individual's quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To promote efforts to reduce exposure to injury risk factors and to utilize effective therapies when damage does occur, it is important to understand historical trends in both the demographics of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) patients and their treatment. We sought to examine some of these trends. METHODS: We searched the Nationwide Inpatient Sample for discharges classified with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision diagnosis codes of median, ulnar, radial, or brachioplexus nerve injury between 1993 and 2006. We analyzed these data to obtain trend information for the number of discharges, hospital charges, treatment course, patient demographics, and other measures. RESULTS: Although aggregate discharges involving these injuries decreased slightly between 1993 and 2006, mean nominal hospital charges for their treatment increased significantly, in particular, for brachial plexus injuries. In 2006 30 to 40% of median, ulnar, and radial nerve injuries required acute repair by direct nerve suture. PNI patients in 2006 were more likely to be male, between the ages of 18 and 44 years, and from regions where the median income level is greater than $36 000. Approximately 75% of PNIs were treated in academic hospitals and 95% in metropolitan areas. CONCLUSION: PNIs are complex injuries that primarily affect males in key years of adult-hood, frequently requiring high-cost acute surgical repair. Although there has been a slight decline in their incidence in the past decade, treatment cost has increased.
Promotion of iron-induced rat liver microsomal lipid peroxidation by copper.

Although copper has been demonstrated to promote lipid peroxidation in a number of systems, the mechanisms involved have not been fully defined. In this study, the role of copper in modifying lipid peroxidation has been explored in rat hepatic microsomes. In an in vitro system containing reduced glutathione (GSH, 200 μM) and Tris buffer, pH 7,4, cupric sulfate (1–50 μM) potentiated lipid peroxidation induced by ferrous sulfate (10 μM) but was unable to elicit peroxidation in the absence of iron. Higher levels of cupric sulfate (100 μM or greater) were inhibitory. The nature as well as the extent of the peroxidative response of microsomes to cupric sulfate were dependent on glutathione levels in addition to those of iron. Cupric sulfate (100 μM) strongly potentiated ferrous ion-induced lipid peroxidation in the presence of 400–800 μM GSH, while it inhibited peroxidation at lower levels of GSH (0–200 μM) and did not affect ferrous ion-induced peroxidation with glutathione levels of 3–10 mM. The potentiating effect of copper on ferrous ion-induced lipid peroxidation was further explored by investigating: (1) potential GSH-mediated reduction of cupric ions; (2) potential copper/GSH-mediated reduction of ferric ions (formed by oxidation during incubation); and (3) possible promotion of propagation reactions by copper/GSH. Our results indicate that cupric ions are reduced by GSH and thus are converted from an inhibitor to an enhancer of iron-induced lipid peroxidation. Cuprous ions appear to potentiate lipid peroxidation by reduction of ferric ions, rather than by promoting propagation reactions. Iron (in a specific Fe+2/Fe+3 ratio) is then an effective promoter of initiation reactions.
Braking the silence: how heterochromatic gene repression is stopped in its tracks.

Eukaryotic DNA is assembled into nucleosomes, which are further packaged into higher order chromatin structures containing many non-histone chromosomal proteins. The details of this packaging have profound effects on gene expression and other cellular processes involving the genetic material. Heterochromatic domains of the genome are usually transcriptionally repressed, while euchromatic regions are transcriptionally competent. Current models of gene activation postulate the existence of boundary elements that either prevent inappropriate activation of genes by distal enhancers (enhancer blockers), or sequences that block the propagation of heterochromatin into euchromatic regions (barriers). While numerous boundary sequences have been identified, little is known with regard to the molecular mechanisms used to punctuate the genome. This review will focus on recent data that provide insight into the mode of action of barrier elements. BioEssays 24:344–349, 2002. ©2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The adrenal-autonomic complex in Alligator mississippiensis

The adrenal-autonomic systems were studied in embryonic and juvenile alligators. In the class Reptilia virtually no previous work has been done on the adrenal-autonomic systems. The adrenals are definite bodies, distinct from the kidney. In young forms they are in close proximity to the gonads and in both the embryonic and young forms the adrenals lie against the wall of the inferior vena cava. Cortical cells predominate. In embryonic forms the medullary tissue is not dispersed as in older forms. The medullary tissue lies in close proximity to the blood sinuses or may completely surround them. The arterial supply is scanty there being only a few small arteries to the adrenal while the blood supply from the inferior vena cava is profuse. The innervation is segmental in nature with four or five consecutive sympathetic ganglia giving off sympathetic nerves to the adrenal. Parasympathetic innervation was not observed in the forms studied. The innervation suggests a transition from lower forms with their segmental diffuse medullary material to the higher forms that display concentration of nerve supply and adrenal tissue.
Structural determinations and normal coordinate analyses op some germanium pseudo-halogens

Abstract The infrared and Raman spectra of germylisothiocyanate (GeH 3 NCS), germylisocyanate (GeH 3 NCO) and germylazide (GeH 3 NNN) have been investigated. A microwave analysis of GeH 3 NCS has also been completed and the spectroscopic data are consistent with those of a symmetric top molecule. In contrast to the C 3 V symmetry of GeH 3 NCS, it has been determined from the vibrational data that GeH 3 NCO and GeH 3 NNN are permanently bent in the gaseous state. Normal coordinate calculations have also been carried out on these three molecules by using a modified valence force field. The values of the force constants associated with the GeH 3 moiety are nearly identical among the three molecules; however, there are considerable differences among the GeN stretching force constants.
The last gasp: trace fossils track deoxygenation leading into the Frasnian-Famennian extinction event

ABSTRACT The Frasnian–Famennian boundary is correlated with one of several Late Devonian extinction pulses that resulted in a significant decrease in diversity as well as ecological restructuring. This event is recognized within the globally correlated Upper Kellwasser interval that is well exposed and biostratigraphically well constrained in shale units of western New York State. The ichnological and geochemical signals of the interval stratigraphically below the Upper Kellwasser event at these localities provides insight into the onset of this important extinction event. Detailed analysis of ichnogeneric composition, relative size of burrow populations, amount of bioturbation, and trace metal concentrations vary in concert. Deep-penetrating, pyritized Skolithos burrows terminate abruptly at a thin, laminated black shale interval with enriched Mo levels, up to 31 ppm, and are overlain by an interval of gray-green bioturbated shales dominated by Chondrites. These textural and chemical shifts reveal that b...
Fine‐scale seismic structure of the shallow volcanic crust on the East Pacific Rise at 9°50′N

upper crust in a � 3 � 3 km field area centered on the East Pacific Rise at 9� 50 0 N. We detonated 18 explosive shots (18 sources) in a circular pattern (1.5 km radius) on the rise axis and recorded seismic arrivals with eight ocean bottom seismometers (eight receivers). We observed 30–40 Hz compressional body waves from all shots (144 P waves) and 1–3 Hz Stoneley (interface) waves on a subset of source-receiver pairs (58 interface waves). Using a station correction inversion, we find that roughly half of the variance in the P wave first-arrival times results from lateral variations in the thickness of the surface low-velocity layer (SLVL), a layer of extremely porous lava and basalt breccia with an average P wave velocity of 2.2 km s � 1 . The SLVL thickness increases from <20 m along the axial summit trough (AST) to � 120 m at near-axis lava depocenters, which are not symmetric about the rise axis. Depocenters are located � 0.5 km to the west and � 1.5 km to the east of the rise axis. Tomographic inversion of the Stoneley wave first arrivals reveals that shear velocities in the SLVL covary with the layer thickness, exhibiting a similar asymmetric pattern, with shear velocities increasing from � 320 m s � 1 near the AST to � 520 m s � 1 at the near-axis depocenters. Our analysis demonstrates that the seismic characteristics of the extrusive layer near the rise axis are related primarily to volcanic features and processes. The thickness and velocity of the SLVL are low on the axis and within channel networks that deliver lava flows away from the axis and then increase rapidly at the distal ends of the channels where the lavas are deposited. We find that azimuthal anisotropy exerts only a weak influence on our P wave first-arrival times, which we model as weak (4%) seismic azimuthal anisotropy in the upper dikes with a fast axis oriented N23� –32� W. We find no evidence for seismic azimuthal anisotropy in the extrusive layer. INDEX TERMS: 3025 Marine Geology and Geophysics: Marine seismics (0935); 3035 Marine Geology and Geophysics: Midocean ridge processes; 7220 Seismology: Oceanic crust;
Acute pancreatitis: a review of pathophysiology and nutrition management.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas that may involve peripancreatic tissue or remote organs. In its more severe forms, it is a significantly catabolic illness for which specialized nutrition support is required.This review summarizes the pathophysiology of AP, the severity grading systems used in its evaluation, and general treatment strategies, and reviews the value of enteral tube feeding and parenteral nutrition in supporting the patient with this common disease.
Quadratic Programming for Least-Cost Feed Formulations under Probabilistic Protein Constraints

This paper shows how a stochastic programming model for least-cost feed formulations under a probabilistic protein constraint and other linear restrictions can be solved by using an iterative quadratic programming technique. As the least-cost plan for a given probability level must be E-σ efficient, the result thus obtained is optimal.
On national identity and the draft

(1972). …On national identity and the draft. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology: Vol. 1, No. 2, pp. 8-9.
Facilitative glucose transporter 9, a unique hexose and urate transporter.

GLUT9 is a novel, facilitative glucose transporter isoform that exists as two alternative splice variants encoding two proteins that differ in their NH2-terminal sequence (GLUT9a and GLUT9b). Both ...
Commentary: Evidence-based Assessment is not Evidence–based Medicine—Commentary on Evidence-based Assessment of Cognitive Functioning in Pediatric Psychology

The authors are commended on a well-done review of instruments to assess cognitive functioning in pediatric psychology. The review follows the framework of a psychological assessment review, and it provides a concise compendium with good coverage of available tests and a compilation of their psychometric “vital statistics.” The article also goes beyond the tropes of routine review by identifying some themes and issues such as the potential value of having disorder specific (or other subgroup specific) norms. The choice of the words “evidence based” in the title invokes many associations, several perhaps unintended by the authors. For me, the phrase cued expectations developed from reading and teaching in an “Evidence-based Medicine” (EBM) framework (Guyatt & Rennie, 2002; Straus, Richardson, Glasziou, & Haynes, 2005). In this instance, my assumption was mistaken. However, as I read through the review, the mistake seems fortunate: it made me compare the methods we use to evaluate and describe evidence within the field of psychological assessment to the language and perspective that is evolving within EBM. Illuminating the discrepancies reveals many gaps that could be filled in ways that advance clinical practice as well as research. The structure of this commentary is as follows: first, I will address the numerous strengths of the review. There is much that is praiseworthy. Second, I will touch on the themes of short forms, retest intervals, and multigroup norms. These are important issues, and I believe that they have even more clinical relevance than indicated in the review. It is also likely that my recommendations may be different than what the authors would have provided if given the opportunity to expand their discussion of these issues. Third, I will briefly introduce EBM and sketch out some of the differences I see between EBA—the current approach within psychology—and EBM. Finally, I will close with suggestions for next steps in both clinical practice and research to assimilate some of the best features of both approaches.
The Transition of Nurse Practitioners to Changes in Prescriptive Authority

Purpose: To understand nurse practitioners' (NPs) decisions about whether to obtain prescriptive authority for controlled substances, to describe NPs' experiences with providing or prescribing controlled substances, and to describe the relationship between perceived autonomy and prescriptive authority for controlled substances. Design and Methods: Twelve focus groups were conducted with approximately 100 NPs who attended continuing education conferences. Discussions were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Grounded theory approaches were used for data collection and analysis. Findings: A core category of Letting go and taking hold characterized Washington State NPs' experience of the transition to prescribing schedule II–IV medications. Three dimensions of the NPs' transition were Resisting change, Ambivalent about change, and Embracing change. Conclusions: The core category, Letting go and taking hold, indicated how transition to a new scope of practice extended beyond successful passage of legislation, the importance of examining the nature of professional transition that accompanies successful legislative change, and role development as an ongoing process throughout one's career in response to changes in scope of practice. NPs need preparation for a new scope of practice long before legislation actually passes. Revealing and examining this process can facilitate the goal of achieving fully autonomous NP practice.
An Algorithm to Predict Success of Indirect Decompression Using the Extreme Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Procedure

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to define an algorithm that will predict the success of indirect decompression without the need for direct decompression in patients undergoing lateral lumbar interbody fusions. Methods and Materials: A prospective cohort study was undertaken for patients undergoing indirect decompression with lateral lumbar interbody fusion. Patients had to meet the following criteria prior to indirect fusion: lack of facet fusion on CT, absence of free disc fragment or compressive facet joint cyst on MRI, absence of frank osteoporosis, lack of congenital and/or severe spinal stenosis on MRI, and significant reduction (greater than 50%) in leg and back pain at rest. We then assessed which patients at follow-up required a second stage open decompression procedure because of continued back and/or leg pain. Results: Our series included 28 patients who underwent indirect decompression with extreme lateral lumbar interbody fusion. Of the 28 patients, one patient required a second stage open decompression at follow-up. The most common level operated on was the L4-L5 level. Twelve patients underwent more than a single level fusion. Average preoperative lumbar lordosis was 29 degrees and average postoperative lordosis was 45 degrees. The average patient age was 66.3 years and average follow-up was 1.21 years. Conclusions: Our algorithm can be used as an aid to assess which patients may benefit from indirect decompression alone, compared to indirect decompression combined with posterior decompression procedures.
The Underwater Medium as a Generalized Communication Channel

The purpose of this paper is twofold: (1), to provide (in necessarily summary form) canonical representations of inhomogeneous random media — in particular here, the underwater acoustic medium — as generalized communication channels; and, (2), to indicate a new conceptual and analytical framework for solving specific problems in complex, realistic situations. The notion of “channel” here includes not only the medium as vehicle for the usual purposes of signal detection and extraction, but also for communication and remote sensing. The canonical operator character of the new approach permits explicit treatment in statistical- physical terms, of all types of media, local and distributed in- homogeneities, and geometries, as well as general signals, apertures, and doppler effects. (The sole restriction is that the media be linear.)
Partial restoration of cardiac function with ΔPDZ nNOS in aged mdx model of Duchenne cardiomyopathy

Transgenic gene deletion/over-expression studies have established the cardioprotective role of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). However, it remains unclear whether nNOS-mediated heart protection can be translated to gene therapy. In this study, we generated an adeno-associated virus (AAV) nNOS vector and tested its therapeutic efficacy in the aged mdx model of Duchenne cardiomyopathy. A PDZ domain-deleted nNOS gene (ΔPDZ nNOS) was packaged into tyrosine mutant AAV-9 and delivered to the heart of ~14-month-old female mdx mice, a phenotypic model of Duchenne cardiomyopathy. Seven months later, we observed robust nNOS expression in the myocardium. Supra-physiological ΔPDZ nNOS expression significantly reduced myocardial fibrosis, inflammation and apoptosis. Importantly, electrocardiography and left ventricular hemodynamics were significantly improved in treated mice. Additional studies revealed increased phosphorylation of phospholamban and p70S6K. Collectively, we have demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of the AAV ΔPDZ nNOS vector in a symptomatic Duchenne cardiomyopathy model. Our results suggest that the cardioprotective role of ΔPDZ nNOS is likely through reduced apoptosis, enhanced phospholamban phosphorylation and improved Akt/mTOR/p70S6K signaling. Our study has opened the door to treat Duchenne cardiomyopathy with ΔPDZ nNOS gene transfer.
Peripheral nerve size in normals and patients with polyneuropathy: an ultrasound study.

Ultrasound has been used for visualizing peripheral nerve pathology. Our goal was to use ultrasound to quantitate the sizes of upper extremity nerves along their length in control subjects and patients with neuropathy. We measured median and ulnar nerve cross-sectional areas (NCSA) in the arms of 190 subjects, including 100 with neuropathies and 90 controls. We found that NCSAs in healthy child and adult controls were greater with increasing height, at proximal sites, and at sites of entrapment. Nerves were enlarged in all Charcot-Marie-Tooth 1A (CMT-1A) (11 of 11; 100%), most chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) (31 of 36; 86%), half of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (8 of 17; 47%), but few axonal neuropathy (7 of 36, 19%) subjects. In GBS, nerve enlargement occurred early and with minimal electrodiagnostic abnormalities in some patients. We conclude that NCSA measured by ultrasound is a quantifiable marker of nerve features that should be corrected for patient characteristics and nerve site. NCSA is generally larger in demyelinating than it is in axonal polyneuropathies.