cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Noncardiac chest pain and psychopathology in children and adolescents.

Abstract Objective We sought to examine the prevalence of DSM-IV psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents with complaints of noncardiac chest pain (NCCP). Method We assessed 27 youngsters (ages 8–17 years) referred to a pediatric cardiology practice with complaints of NCCP. Each child and a parent were interviewed using the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for Children. Results Sixteen youngsters (59%) were diagnosed with a current DSM-IV disorder. Fifteen (56%) had a current anxiety disorder, nine of whom were diagnosed with panic disorder. One participant was diagnosed with a depressive disorder. Conclusion Results of this preliminary study suggest that DSM-IV anxiety disorders may be common in youngsters with NCCP. No evidence was found for high prevalence of depression in this sample. Larger controlled studies are needed to determine the prevalence and impact of psychopathology in youngsters with NCCP.
Controlling gravitational distortions in long synchrotron x-ray mirrors

X-ray mirrors for synchrotron radiation beamlines must have low roughness and small figure errors to preserve source brilliance. Gravitationally-induced slope errors can be particularly detrimental for large vertically-deflecting mirrors on ultra-high brilliance third generation beamlines. Although mirror support can greatly reduce gravitational distortions, in some cases mirror support can complicate dynamic bending. We discuss techniques for controlling gravitational distortions with particular emphasis on removing gravitational distortions from simple bendable mirrors. We also show that in beamlines with parallel mirrors, gravitation induced slope errors can be canceled through the mirror pair; gravitation induced slope errors of the first mirror can be canceled by matching slope errors with opposite signs on the second mirror.
Deficiency in AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Exaggerates High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy and Contractile Dysfunction

AMPK, a metabolic sensor, protects against ischemic injury and cardiac hypertrophy although its role in obesity is unclear. This study was designed to examine the impact of AMPK deficiency on cardiac dysfunction following high fat feeding. Adult WT and transgenic mice overexpressing a kinase dead (KD) α2 isoform (K45R mutation) of AMPK were fed a low or high fat diet for 20 weeks. DEXA was used to confirm adiposity. Wheat germ agglutinin immunostaining was used to evaluate myocardial histology. Myocardial function was evaluated using echocardiography and edge-detection. AMPK activity was analyzed using fluorescence polarization assays. [1-(14)C] oleate was used to determine fatty acid oxidation. Expression of AMPK, α1, α2, ACC, Akt, the Glut-4 translocation mediator Akt substrate of 160KD (AS160), mTOR, total and membrane Glut-4 was evaluated using Western blot. AMPK activity was decreased in KD mice regardless of diet regimen. High fat diet led to obesity, glucose intolerance and cardiac hypertrophy with accentuated glucose intolerance, dampened fatty acid oxidation and cardiac hypertrophy in KD mice. High fat feeding triggered lower fractional shortening, increased LV mass, left ventricular end diastolic/systolic diameter, decreased PS, ± dL/dt, prolonged TR(90) and intracellular Ca(2+) mishandling with a more pronounced effect in KD mice. High fat diet and AMPK KD lessened AMPKα2 isoform activity and ACC phosphorylation. AMPK deficiency unveiled or accentuated high fat diet-induced decrease in phosphorylation of Akt and AS160, membrane fraction of Glut-4 and mTOR expression (a greater mTOR phosphorylation). Taken together, these data suggest that AMPK deficiency exacerbates obesity-induced cardiac hypertrophy and contractile dysfunction, possibly associated with AS160 and mTOR signaling.
CT findings in children with Meckel diverticulum

Background Approximately 0.04% of the general population will present with a complication related to Meckel diverticulum. The classic teaching is that symptomatic children with Meckel diverticulum present with painless rectal bleeding and are evaluated with a radionuclide scan. Our subjective experience is that we see children with Meckel diverticulum who present with abdominal pain and are evaluated by CT.
Comparison of chlorocruorin and annelid hemoglobin quaternary structures.

Abstract 1. 1. The structures of Eudistylia vancouveri chlorocruorin and Pista pacifica and Thelepus crispus extracellular hemoglobins have been examined by electron microscopy. The intact pigments display a two-tiered hexagonal array characteristic of other annelid high molecular weight hemoglobins and chlorocruorins. 2. 2. The smallest subunit molecular weight of these pigments determined by SDS gel electrophoresis is 14–15,000; Pista hemoglobin contains some additional 30,000 molecular weight material under a variety of denaturing conditions. Earthworm hemoglobin is also heterogenous upon SDS gel electrophoresis, consisting of at least six components with mol. wt ranging from 13, 000 to 35,000. 3. 3. The amino acid compositions of these high molecular weight pigments are compared with one another and with the intracellular hemoglobins of other invertebrates and vertebrates. It is likely that Eudistylia chlorocruorin and certain high molecular weight annelid hemoglobins form a group of closely related proteins.
Should Arranged Marriages for Teenage Girls Be Allowed?: How Public Schools Should Respond to Illiberal Cultural Practices.

In this article I offer a framework for thinking about how public schools in liberal societies ought to respond to instances of arranged marriages for girls from deeply communitarian cultural groups. Focusing on three cases of culturally and religiously arranged marriages from the Hmong, Islamic fundamentalist and Mormon fundamentalist communities, I show that neither the type of tolerance demanded by group rights theorists, nor Susan Okin's claim that liberals should `enforce' women's rights, provides liberals with a satisfactory response. Instead, I argue that Rawls' concept of overlapping consensus provides us with a more just way to think through these tensions between cultural values.Through this discussion it becomes clear that: (a) specifics matter; and (b) what we must not do when making policies is move girls from one autonomy-limiting situation into a different non-autonomous situation.
Kainic acid, bicuculline, pentylenetetrazol and pilocarpine elicit maximal dentate activation in the anesthetized rat

Patterns of epileptiform activity in the hippocampus induced by chemical convulsants were recorded in the urethane-anesthetized rat. Previously, two epileptiform discharges have been recorded in the dentate gyrus after electrical stimulation, one consisting of broad positive potentials and the second consisting of bursts of large amplitude population spikes (termed maximal dentate activation). In the present study, convulsant-induced epileptiform activity was documented and compared to stimulus-evoked activity. Four systemically active convulsants--kainic acid, bicuculline, pentylenetetrazol and pilocarpine--were used in this study. One of the convulsants was administered and the animal was monitored for the development of epileptiform activity in CA1, CA3 and the dentate gyrus. The epileptiform activity that first appeared after each of the convulsants was grouped into four categories. With extended monitoring, or an increase in dose, each of the chemical convulsants produced maximal dentate activation in the majority of the animals tested (72-90%). When maximal dentate activation was present bursts of population spikes were also recorded in CA3 and CA1. These observations suggest that the early discharges are related to the mechanism of action of the convulsant and that the appearance of maximal dentate activation is independent of the mechanism of action. In addition, there does not appear to be a fixed evolution of epileptic discharges in these circuits when comparing seizure induction by different mechanisms.
The effect of preparation variables on the dispersion of supported platinum catalysts

The effects of several preparation variables on the dispersion of supported platinum catalysts were examined in this study. Supported catalysts were prepared using two different platinum salts, four high surface area support materials, and two aqueous deposition techniques. The catalysts were characterised by hydrogen chemisorption, oxygen chemisorption, and the hydrogen titration reaction. In addition, X-ray diffraction measurements were conducted on all catalysts. Results from this study show that one of the platinum salts, chloroplatinic acid, always gave an equally or more highly dispersed catalyst than the other salt, tetraammine platinum (II) nitrate. The incipient wetness preparation technique produced equal or better dispersions than did the excess water method, with the possible exception of the silica-alumina support. The highest dispersions were attained with alumina, and the lowest with carbon. In some samples, a lack of good agreement existed between X-ray diffraction and chemisorption measurements of crystallite size which indicated broad or bimodal particle size distributions. However, these X-ray data were qualitatively helpful in understanding the unusual chemisorption behaviour of Pt/C catalysts, one of which had a dispersion higher than any previous reported Pt/C catalyst prepared by aqueous impregnation techniques. Experiments were also conducted which showed that either a 1 h or a 12 h treatment in hydrogen at 723 K was sufficient to reduce the platinum salt, and 1 h or 12 h evacuations at 698 K gave similar results. Finally, it was found that approximately one-half of the hydrogen monolayer on supported Pt could be removed by evacuating for 1 h at 300 K.
Laparoscopic Splenopexy for the Wandering Spleen Syndrome

Purpose: Wandering spleen syndrome is an uncommon condition characterized by the absence of the normal suspensory ligaments of the spleen. The wandering spleen is highly mobile, suspended only by its vascular pedicle, and may cause significant morbidity, including hypersplenism, splenic torsion and infarction, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction, and bleeding from gastric varices. Splenectomy has been the traditional method of treatment; however, splenopexy has recently been advocated to avoid the risk for post-splenectomy sepsis. We present a novel, minimally invasive method of splenopexy for the treatment of a wandering spleen and associated hypersplenism in a pediatric patient. Methods: A 15-year-old girl presented with a 3-week history of intermittent severe lower abdominal pain and was found to have anemia, thrombocytopenia, and a palpable lower abdominal mass. Ultrasonography demonstrated an enlarged wandering spleen and cholelithiasis. Laparoscopic splenopexy and cholecystectomy were performed wit...
Effect of prostaglandin E 1 on the pulmonary vascular response to endotoxin.

Abstract : Endotoxin causes an increase in vascular resistance and the release of some lysosomal enzymes in the circulation of the isolated lobe of the dog lung perfused in situ. These effects of endotoxin were prevented by the administration of PGE sub 1. When PGE sub 1 was infused after endotoxin was given, the increase in the pulmonary perfusion pressure was greatly reduced. Thus similar to the previously tested anti-inflammatory drugs, PGE sub 1 can block some of the effects of endotoxin in the circulation.
A Systems Approach to Understanding the Evolution of the Agro-Social-Ecological System of the Upper Rio Grande-San Luis Valley, Colorado

Understanding the complex dynamics of social-ecological systems (SES) is difficult because rigorous methodologies and methods for this purpose are lacking. Multi-scale (temporal and geographical) linkages and pathways can mask feedbacks. Thus, understanding SES requires multi-dimensional analyses. This study presents a potential methodology and method for multi-dimensional analyses of a SES in the Upper Rio Grande-San Luis Valley (URG-SLV), Colorado. A driver identification process identified 5 major drivers in the URG-SLV, including stream flow, climate, agriculture, and endogenous and exogenous policy. Several of these drivers possessed more than one longitude. Data for these drivers begins as early as 1852 and extends to 2007. Changes in driver longitudes (long-term datasets within a single driver; maximum, minimum and mean annual temperature comprise climate longitudes) were detected via change point analysis, occurring at several transitional points. Linkages were defined using known relationships between drivers (e.g., stream flow and water rights). Cross-scale relationships between the URG-SLV and downstream users through policy changes and climate also presented a temporal cross-scale linkage. Using the relationships and cross-scale linkages, a historical evolution of the system was constructed throughout the 150-plus years of record to illustrate the effects of changes in drivers and cross-scale linkages in the system.
The psychology of 'regrettable substitutions': Examining consumer judgements of Bisphenol A and its alternatives.

Bisphenol A is a chemical used to make certain types of plastics and is found in numerous consumer products. Because scientific studies have raised concerns about Bisphenol A’s potential impact on human health, it has been removed from some (but not all) products. What many consumers do not know, however, is that Bisphenol A is often replaced with other, less-studied chemicals whose health implications are virtually unknown. This type of situation is known as a potential ‘regrettable substitution’, because the substitute material might actually be worse than the material that it replaces. Regrettable substitutions are a common concern among policymakers, and they are a real-world manifestation of the tension that can exist between the desire to avoid risk (known possible consequences that might or might not occur) and ambiguity (second-order uncertainty), which is itself aversive. In this article, we examine how people make such trade-offs using the example of Bisphenol A. Using data from Study 1, we show...
On the Use of Smart Antennas in Multi-Hop Wireless Networks

Smart antennas include a broad range of antenna technologies ranging from the simple switched beam to the more sophisticated adaptive arrays and multiple input multiple output (MIMO) links. Their ability to exploit multiple degrees of freedom helps them operate in different strategies to achieve different objectives ranging from rate increase, range increase, transmission power reduction, and higher link reliability. While these antennas have been significantly researched at the PHY layer leading to results that are easily translatable to single-hop wireless networks, very little is understood about their use in multi-hop wireless ad-hoc networks. Specific unanswered questions in this context include: (i) what kind of performance improvements can the different technologies and their strategies provide? (ii) for each technology, which of the different possible strategies is the optimal strategy to employ for a given network condition? and (iii) for a given network setting, which of the different smart antenna technologies will deliver the best performance? In this paper, we systematically answer these questions by comprehensively evaluating the relative benefits of the different smart antenna technologies.
Silicon on insulator inertial MEMS device processing

During the 1980's and 1990's the methods used to manufacture inertial MEMS devices could be divided into two groups; bulk and surface micromachining. Institutions which developed high precision inertial MEMS devices usually employed bulk micromachining processes. This was done to fabricate devices with large proof masses and stiff beams which result in a high scale factor, as well as high drive, and sense frequencies. New processes have been developed which are based on silicon on insulator (SOI) wafers. These processes combine the advantages of bulk and surface micromachining while enabling the etching of thick proof masses. This paper illustrates the manufacturing and performance advantages of an SOI inertial MEMS process.
Sporadic sexual behavior and menstrual cycle length in women

Abstract In an initial study of 248 university students prospective double-blind monitoring of sexual behavior and menses onsets showed that sporadic (less than regular weekly) sexual activity was associated with aberrant menstrual cycle lengths. This study examines the sample of sporadically active women for behavioral correlates of aberrant cycle lengths. It is shown that women reporting a high frequency of sexual activity (though in a sporadic pattern) showed a higher incidence of aberrant cycle lengths than women reporting a low frequency of sporadic coitus. Stable ongoing sexual behavior patterns appear to associate with a different endocrine background than less stable, sporadic sexual patterns.
Simple Solutions for Difficult Problems: A Beginner's Guide to Ring Fixation

Ring external fixation is a surgical method for leg lengthening and deformity correction. It allows limited surgical exposure and dissection and can be tolerated for prolonged periods as compared to threaded uniplanar or multiplanar constructs. Because of the complexity in application and adjustment of the frame constructs, most orthopedic surgeons avoid using these devices. Surgeons are advised to apply these techniques initially to less complicated clinical situations, expanding application with comfort and proficiency. This discussion introduces ring fixation and provides guidelines for simple applications. Experience with these simple applications allows surgeons to expand their spectrum of proficiency and provides alternatives for solving complex clinical problems.
Evolution of parental stress and coping processes: a framework for critical care practice.

Crisis theory, stress and coping theory, and research on parental stress and coping during pediatric critical care experiences are integrated into a conceptual framework for understanding, assessing, and ultimately intervening to reduce parental stress and bolster coping. Within this framework, cognitive appraisal of stress, coping, and person and situation factors are discussed as important determinants of parents' adaptation to this stressful situation. The nurse's ability to respond to the evolving nature of parental stress and coping processes over the course of the experience enhances the use of the framework in designing coping interventions.
BARRIERS TO LIFESTYLE CHANGE, AND THE NEED TO DEVELOP AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO PREVENTION

Many barriers exist to the delivery of preventive services by both cardiologists and other physicians. These barriers can be overcome by appropriate training and the development of supportive infrastructures. In addition, institutional priorities must change in a direction that encourages such efforts. Cardiologists must recognize the importance of risk-factor modification, and training programs in cardiology should teach appropriate counseling techniques, the use of risk factor-lowering pharmacologic agents, and the manner in which cardiologists should interface with dietitians and other ancillary personnel. In addition, we need to recognize and teach, both by didactics and by example, that counseling patients and carrying out long-term preventive interventions can be as gratifying and interesting as performing dramatic procedures that although valuable and rewarding take place at a very late point in the patient's clinical course and perhaps could have been averted by greater attention to risk-factor modification. Increasingly, the public and governmental agencies are becoming involved in encouraging these endeavors, and cardiologists should be in the vanguard of such efforts, not reluctantly bringing up the rear.
A non-contact laser-based alignment system (LBAS) for nuclear-physics experiments

Abstract High-resolution reconstruction of reaction dynamics in nuclear-physics experiments with radioactive beams requires accurate knowledge of the beam-particle trajectories and the precise alignment of detectors with respect to the reaction target. In many cases, sub-millimeter position measurements of fragile beam-tracking and particle–detector systems are essential. We have constructed a laser-based alignment system (LBAS) which is a non-contact, high-precision alignment tool designed for applications where excellent spatial positioning must be achieved. The working principles and performance of the laser-based alignment system are presented.
Inhomogeneously broadened laser with a saturable absorber

A quantum theory for a laser with inhomogeneously broadened active and absorber atoms is presented. Photon-number distributions are derived for both on- and off-resonance operation of the laser, and the results are compared with the results of earlier investigations.
Damage Mechanics of Two-Dimensional Woven SiC/SiC Composites

The paper reports an analysis and modeling of the damage behavior of two-dimensional woven SiC/SiC composites. The damage mechanics analysis originally developed by Ladeveze and coworkers for polymeric and C/C composites are adopted and extended for ceramic matrix composites. The experimental findings of the coauthors reported in a companion paper provides the data for analytical modeling. The damage model assumes quasi-isotropic elastic behavior of the undamaged SiC/SiC composites as well as orthotropic damage development (e.g., matrix microcracking, interfacial debonding, and fiber fracture). The model utilizes two damage variables which are determined from experimental data; and the constitutive relation takes into account the difference in damage development between tension and compression in the principal material directions. The validity of the theory is demonstrated by the prediction of damage evolution of a SiC/SiC specimen under four-point bend test based upon the experimental data of tension and compression tests. A finite element method coupled with damage is adopted for the flexural analysis. The predictions agree quite well with experimental results.
High-Pressure Gel Loader for Capillary Array Electrophoresis Microchannel Plates

Microfabricated capillary array electrophoresis (μCAE) microchannel plates are the next generation of bioanalytical separation devices. To fully exploit the capabilities of μCAE devices, supporting...
Two-Dimensional Strain Imaging of Controlled Rabbit Hearts

Abstract Ultrasound strain imaging using 2-D speckle tracking has been proposed to quantitatively assess changes in myocardial contractility caused by ischemia. Its performance must be demonstrated in a controlled model system as a step toward routine clinical application. In this study, a well-controlled 2-D cardiac elasticity imaging technique was developed using two coplanar and orthogonal linear probes simultaneously imaging an isolated retroperfused rabbit heart. Acute ischemia was generated by left anterior descending (LAD) artery ligation. An excitation-contraction decoupler, 2,3-butanedione monoxime, was applied at a 4-mM concentration to reversibly reduce myocardial contractility. Results using a single probe demonstrate that directional changes in the in-plane principal deformation axes can help locate the bulging area as a result of LAD ligation, which matched well with corresponding Evans Blue staining, and strains or strain magnitude, based on principal stretches, can characterize heart muscle contractility. These two findings using asymmetric displacement accuracy ( i.e. , normal single-probe measurements with good axial but poor lateral estimates) were further validated using symmetric displacement accuracy ( i.e. , dual-probe measurements using only accurate axial tracking estimates from each). However, the accuracy of 2-D cardiac strain imaging using a single probe depends on the probe's orientation because of the large variance in lateral displacement estimates. (E-mail: cxjia@umich.edu )
Can Workplace Democracy Transform Capitalist Society?: Durkheim and Burawoy Compared

This study makes a number of comparisons between the theories of Durkheim (1933) and Burawoy (1979) on the link between work and a just social order. These comparisons are used to speculate on the question, Can democratization of the labor process transform capitalist society? Several points of agreement and disagreement are discussed to advance our understanding of the societal effects of changes being introduced at the point of production. It is argued that both the organizational perspective of Durkheim and the political economy perspective of Burawoy agree that the worker as moral actor is the key to how work life will articulate with life in society. The question then becomes whether workers may be differentially involved as moral actors on the job and in society at large.
Moving GLM ballistocardiogram artifact reduction for EEG acquired simultaneously with fMRI

Objective: Simultaneous acquisition of electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) enables studies of brain activity at both high temporal and high spatial resolution. However, EEG acquired in a magnetic field is contaminated by ballistocardiogram (BKG) artifact. The most commonly used method of BKG artifact reduction, averaged artifact subtraction (AAS), was not designed to account for overlapping BKG waveforms generated by adjacent beats. We describe a new method based on a moving general linear model (mGLM) that accounts for overlapping BKG waveforms. Methods: Simultaneous EEG–fMRI at 3 Tesla was performed in nine normal human subjects (8–11 runs/subject, 5.52 min/run). Gradient switching artifact was effectively reduced using commercially supplied procedures. Cardiac beats were detected using a novel correlation detector algorithm applied to the EKG trace. BKG artifact was reduced using both mGLM and AAS. Results: mGLM recovered BKG waveforms outlasting the median inter-beat interval. mGLM more effectiv1ely than AAS removed variance in the EEG attributable to BKG artifact. Conclusions: mGLM offers advantages over AAS especially in the presence of variable heart rate. Significance: The BKG artifact reduction procedure described herein improves the technique of simultaneous EEG–fMRI. Potential applications include basic investigations of the relationship between scalp potentials and functional imaging signals as well as clinical localization of epileptic foci. � 2007 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
It really just does not follow, comments on Francis (2013)

Abstract I discuss points of agreement and disagreement with Francis (2013) , and argue that the main lesson from his numerous one-off publication bias critiques is that developers of new statistical tools ought to anticipate their potential misuses and develop safeguards to prevent them.
Black-Box Identification of a Grating-Stabilized External-Cavity Diode Laser

Diode lasers have many useful properties and have found a variety of uses including CD and DVD players, barcode scanners, laser surgery, water purification, quantum-key cryptography, spectroscopic sensing, etc. Nevertheless, their intrinsic linewidth, or the precision of their emitted wavelengths, is not good enough for many cutting-edge applications such as atom interferometry or high-performance atomic clocks. Using active feedback control we can narrow the linewidth of a diode laser, not allowing the frequency of emitted light to drift away from a reference value. Nevertheless, such feedback designs are challenging because of a lack of first principles models and difficult sensor dynamics. This paper describes our diode laser system and reports our results identifying the system using black-box techniques.
Development of Short‐Range Repulsive Potentials in Aqueous, Silicon Nitride Slurries

The properties of aqueous, dispersed, silicon nitride slurries, with an isoelectric point of pH 5.5, can be changed with additions of NH[sub 4]Cl. At pH 10 the effect of adding NH[sub 4]Cl is similar to that suggested by DLVO theory; namely, for concentrations [<=] 0.5M, the viscosity vs shear rate behavior, the elastic modulus, and the relative packing density are identical to hose for slurries prepared at the isoelectric point. On the other hand, the effect of salt on dispersed slurries prepared at pH 2 differs from the behavior implied by classic DLVO theory; i.e., measurement of the same properties showed that the attractive interparticle potential was much weaker relative to that produced at the isoelectric point. As previously reported for alumina slurries, the results suggest that a short-range, repulsive interparticle potential is developed in salt-added slurries prepared at pH 2 which prevents attractive particles in the slurry from touching and aids particle packing. The same short-range potential apparently is not developed with salt additions at pH 10. The difference between silicon nitride and alumina slurries is apparent when the slurries are consolidated. Bodies consolidated from any silicon nitride slurry are elastic (i.e., they fracture before they flow) unlike salt-addedmore » alumina slurries, which are plastic.« less
Genetic Improvement of Sorghum as a Biofuel Feedstock: II. QTL for Stem and Leaf Structural Carbohydrates

Digestion and fermentation of lignocellulosic biomass (i.e., structural carbohydrates) are predicted to deliver higher yields of energy per hectare than sugar and starch (nonstructural carbohydrates), yet little research on genetic variation in crop feedstock biomass traits has been conducted. We investigated the genetic basis of leaf and stem biomass yield and composition in a population derived from a high-biomass sweet sorghum, ‘Rio’, and a grain sorghum inbred line, ‘BTx623’, and compared these results with those from analyses of grain and stem sugar traits that we reported previously. Thirty-one traits were evaluated and a total of 110 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were identifi ed across three locations. Many QTL for structural and nonstructural carbohydrate yields colocalized with loci for height, fl owering time, and stand density–tillering. Quantitative trait loci for composition had little colocalization across tissues and environments. Separate genetic control for leaf and stem structural carbohydrate composition was identifi ed, as well as separate genetic control of protein accumulation in leaf, stem, and grain. To maximize energy yields from grain and dedicated biomass sorghums, results suggest yield traits should be targeted for improvement before composition traits.
A source-sink framework for coupling water, carbon, and nutrient dynamics of vegetation

Feedbacks between photosynthesis and growth and the influence on these relationships of environmental factors are reviewed. The evidence indicates a strong dependence of photosynthesis on photosynthate utilization. It also indicates that growth is more sensitive than photosynthesis to water and mineral nutrient stress. As a consequence, many relationships between photosynthesis and external driving variables are confounded by internal feedback effects that reflect the influence of external factors on growth. A source-sink framework for modeling carbon dynamics with coupled water and nutrient interactions in soil-plant systems is outlined. Simulations based on these concepts suggest that sink feedback regulation of photosynthesis at various times in diurnal, wetting-drying, and annual cycles is probably a common occurrence in soil-plant systems.
A linear programming approach to uniform functional expansions, heavy traffic pole multiplicities, and uniform stability for open queueing networks

We study open queueing networks. We provide linear programs to obtain the coefficients C/sub i/ that supply upper or lower bounds of the form /spl rho/C/sub M//(1-/spl rho/)/sup M/+/spl rho/C/sub M-1//(1-/spl rho/)/sup M-1/+/spl middot//spl middot//spl middot/+/spl rho/C/sub 0/.
Integration of micromachined devices and microelectronic circuits: techniques and challenges

Successful implementation of low-cost, reliable, integrated microsystems requires the integration of planar two-dimensional microelectronic circuits with three-dimensional microelectromechanical structures. Over the past several years, many methods for the integration of microcircuits with micromechanical structures have been developed. This review paper will present an overview of these techniques for integrating microelectromechanical structures with microelectronic circuits. The state-of-the-art, limitations and challenges in the realization of such integrated microsystems are discussed.
Microglia, Cytokines and Pain

Chronic pain is a significant national health problem which afflicts more than 25% of adults in the United States, alone, and is the most common reason individuals seek medical care. Chronic and recurrent pain, which persists or recurs for more than 3 months, is itself a disease condition. Historically, our understanding of the creation and maintenance of neuropathic pathological pain has focused on neuronal mechanisms in the pain pathway. However, research conducted during the past ˜15 years has indicated that many of the neuronal and biochemical changes in the dorsal spinal cord are in part, initiated by and consequences of immune and glial cell signaling. Thus, conditions that activate and/or maintain activation of primary sensory neurons and dorsal spinal cord pain transmission neurons also involve surrounding glial activation. Well-characterized proinflammatory cytokines, derived from glia are critically involved in pathological pain. The most studied cytokines in pathological pain conditions are tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and IL-6. The anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-10 (IL-10), is one of the most powerful counter-regulatory controls over proinflammatory function. Novel and promising viral and non-viral gene therapeutic approaches that employ the actions of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-4 and IL-10 are being developed as novel therapeutics to treat chronic neuropathic pain conditions.
Time series analysis of income convergence in China

In this article, we examine both pre- and post-reform economic convergence behaviour in China using the time-series procedures developed in the Hobijn and Franses (2000). Our results are striking: First, we find a number of extremely small convergence clubs for both the pre- and post-reform periods, and these clubs cannot be characterized by geography or the extent of policy preference level. Second, our results show that economic reform led to more divergence.
High NaCl–induced activation of CDK5 increases phosphorylation of the osmoprotective transcription factor TonEBP/OREBP at threonine 135, which contributes to its rapid nuclear localization

When activated by high NaCl, tonicity-responsive enhancer-binding protein/osmotic response element-binding protein (TonEBP/OREBP) increases transcription of osmoprotective genes. High NaCl activates TonEBP/OREBP by increasing its phosphorylation, nuclear localization, and transactivating activity. In HEK293 cells, mass spectrometry shows phosphorylation of TonEBP/OREBP-S120, -S134, -T135, and -S155. When those residues are individually mutated to alanine, nuclear localization is greater for S155A, less for S134A and T135A, and unchanged for S120A. High osmolality increases phosphorylation at T135 in HEK293 cells and in rat renal inner medullas in vivo. In HEK293 cells, high NaCl activates cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5), which directly phosphorylates TonEBP/OREBP-T135. Inhibition of CDK5 activity reduces the rapid high NaCl-induced nuclear localization of TonEBP/OREBP but does not affect its transactivating activity. High NaCl induces nuclear localization of TonEBP/OREBP faster (≤2 h) than it increases its overall protein abundance (≥6 h). Inhibition of CDK5 reduces the increase in TonEBP/OREBP transcriptional activity that has occurred by 4 h after NaCl is raised, associated with less nuclear TonEBP/OREBP at that time, but does not reduce either activity or nuclear TonEBP/OREBP after 16 h. Thus high NaCl-induced increase of the overall abundance of TonEBP/OREBP, by itself, eventually raises its effective level in the nucleus, but its rapid CDK5-dependent nuclear localization accelerates the process, speeding transcription of osmoprotective target genes.
Relative Root Systems

In this chapter, we will consider root systems and Weyl groups associated with a Lie group G. We will assume that G satisfies the assumptions in Hypothesis 28.1 of the last chapter. Thus, G is semisimple and comes with a compact dual G c . In Chap. 18, we associated with G c a root system and Weyl group. That root system and Weyl group we will call the absolute root system Φ and Weyl group W. We will introduce another root system Φ rel, called the relative or restricted root system, and a Weyl group W rel called the relative Weyl group. The relation between the two root systems will be discussed. The structures that we will find give Iwasawa and Bruhat decompositions in this context. This chapter may be skipped with no loss of continuity.
Electronic Health Records as Sources of Research Data--Reply.

In Reply I agree with Dr Opmeer that an important barrier to the conduct of high-quality RCTs nested in the EHR will be the quality of the EHR itself. I specifically noted in the Viewpoint that this would arguably be the greatest challenge. Opmeer focuses on lack of completeness, validity, and reliability of clinical data in the EHR. Even though I share his concerns, I would point out that these same threats already compromise all clinical research.
Erfolgsfaktor Unternehmenskultur — Beteiligung erfolgreich umsetzen

In diesem knappen Beitrag wollen wir uns zunachst fragen, was man unter Kultur versteht, um dann zu zeigen, dass sich Kultur uberall dort bildet, wo Menschen fur eine etwas langere Zeit zusammen leben. Da Kultur ein komplexes, schwer fassbares Phanomen ist, wollen wir uns mit einem vereinfachenden Modell der Kultur — insbesondere der Kultur eines Unternehmens — auseinandersetzen, das zentrale Erscheinungsformen der Kultur auf drei Ebenen abbildet.
Essential Hypertension—Where Are We Going?

This discussion was selected from the weekly staff conferences in the Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco. Taken from a transcription, it has been edited by Homer A. Boushey, MD, Professor of Medicine, and Nathan M. Bass, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine, under the direction of Lloyd H. Smith, Jr, MD, Professor of Medicine and Associate Dean in the School of Medicine.
Arts teacher evaluation: How did we get here?

ABSTRACTArts educators recently have found themselves in unfamiliar and sometimes-frustrating situations regarding their performance evaluations. The push for value-added models, effectiveness ratings based on schoolwide test score averages, portfolios, student learning objectives, and other measures of teacher effectiveness has dramatically changed arts teachers' evaluation procedures. Without sufficient knowledge of relevant educational history, these changes may seem to have emerged out of thin air. This article offers brief histories of teacher evaluation practices and teacher effectiveness/quality research, and discusses how the two histories recently collided to shape policy. Lingering questions for arts teachers are examined. Finally, recommendations are offered for how arts teachers can proactively deal with current and evolving teacher evaluation policies.
How can your department improve undergraduate education in surgery and its specialties

Abstract In order to answer, in part, the question posed, “How can your department improve undergraduate education …?,” the discussion was consciously limited to a few small areas in the broad field of surgical teaching. The following answers are but a step in the right direction: 1. 1. Keep surgery in the undergraduate core experience by personal commitment regardless of the curricular format. 2. 2. Make every effort to collect data before and after any change of instructional patterns so as to evaluate as objectively as possible the effects of that change. 3. 3. Be sure that student evaluation is consciously pursued in breadth and depth. 4. 4. Maintain the flexibility to alter the surgical teaching program in response to constructive student criticism and feedback. 5. 5. The instructional role of the surgical specialties in undergraduate training must include both the skills and concepts peculiar to the specialty and the demonstration of the principles fundamental to all surgery when and as the situation permits. 6. 6. Remain alert to well-conceived and carefully evaluated innovations in the educational process. 7. 7. There is no substitute presently available for personal, professional, and intellectual communication between teacher and student.
Engineering Geology at the Local Government Level: Planning, Review, and Enforcement

City and county governments are increasingly using geologic data and interpretation in land-use decisions. Local governments in at least five states have hired City or County Geologists to supplement State Geological Survey support for land-use planning, development review, and ordinance enforcement. Geologic input to long range land-use planning occurs within local Master Plans and Policy Plans. Agency review of pre-development geotechnical reports is becoming more common and more crucial, as local governments require more detailed data, and as projects involving marginal lands become more expensive. Ordinances regulating land-use activity in geologic hazard or mineral resource areas, typically written by non-geologists, often mandate special geologic investigations or restrict development options. Consultants should become more aware of the planning, review, and ordinance enforcement processes within local governments. The author draws upon his experience as County Geologist of metropolitan Jefferson County, Colorado, to describe the internal processing of geologic data within a local government.
Approximate Methods For Correcting Potential Flow Calculations

This paper consists of two parts. The first part deals with formulations of entropy and vorticity correction methods for potential flow calculations. Numerical implementations are also discussed. The second part consists of a parametric study including interpolation and extrapolation of solutions with discontinuities and singularities in the physical space. Some numerical results are presented followed by concluding remarks.
Demonstration of a Magnetic Locking Flux-Pinned Revolute Joint for Use on CubeSat-Standard Spacecraft

Magnetic flux pinning is an interaction between strong magnets and certain superconductors that causes a damped, non-contacting equilibrium to form, connecting the flux-pinned objects. This interaction has been proposed for use in establishing a stable formation of spacecraft modules that is resistant to disturbances. Although flux pinning can exert forces in all six degrees of freedom, a flux-pinned interface can be designed to constrain only certain degrees of freedom so that it functions as a non-contacting kinematic joint. One such joint consists of a superconductor flux pinned to a cylindrical magnet and free to move around the magnet’s axis of symmetry. Such an interface would serve as a revolute joint that allows two modular spacecraft to reconfigure. This paper explores the development of one such joint compatible with the CubeSat standard. We extend the functionality of the revolute joint by introducing electromagnets that create two stable equilibrium states in a system of two modules. The electromagnets also provide the means of reconfiguration between the two states, eliminating the need for reaction wheels, thrusters, or other conventional actuators for this maneuver. Finally, this paper discusses future testing for flux-pinned joints and ongoing work on an in-orbit demonstration.
Significance of Hyperglycemia in Disease Development and Prognosis in Critically Ill Children

Objective To investigate the significance of hyperglycemia in disease development and prognosis in critically ill children.Methods According to the maximum blood glucose values within 24 hours after admission,145 critically ill children were divided into three groups: normal blood glucose group(blood glucose≤6.1 mmol·L-1,n=38),mild hyperglycemia group(6.1 mmol·L-1blood glucose≤10.0 mmol·L-1,n=67),and severe hyperglycemia group(blood glucose10.0 mmol·L-1,n=40).Pediatric critical illness score(PCIS) and systemic infection related organ failure assessment(SOFA) score,laboratory parameters,ICU stay and mortality were compared among the three groups on admission.Results Both PCIS and SOFA scores in severe hyperglycemia group(81.68±8.16 and 7.14±2.84,respectively) were significantly higher than those in mild hyperglycemia group(86.57±6.92 and 5.95±2.68,respectively) or normal blood glucose group(86.24±6.57 and 5.52±2.61,respectively)(P0.05).There were no significant differences in PCIS and SOFA scores between mild hyperglycemia group and normal blood glucose group(P0.05).The differences in infection indicators,liver and kid-ney function and myocardial enzymes were significant between severe hyperglycemia group and mild hyperglycemia group,as well as between severe hyperglycemia group and normal blood glucose group(P0.05),but not significant between mild hyperglycemia group and normal blood glucose group(P0.05).The length of ICU stay in severe hyperglycemia group [(11.7±4.9) days] was significantly longer than that in mild hyperglycemia group [(6.2±3.2) days] or normal blood glucose group [(6.7±3.6) days](P0.05).There were no significant differences in the length of ICU stay between mild hyperglycemia group and normal blood glucose group(P0.05).The mortality in severe hyperglycemia group(35%) was significantly higher than that in mild hyperglycemia group(13.4%) or normal blood glucose group(10.5%)(P0.05).There were no significant differences in mortality between mild hyperglycemia group and normal blood glucose group(P0.05).Conclusion The elevated blood glucose is closely related to disease severity and prognosis.Therefore,blood glucose monitoring has important clinical significance in critically ill children.
Medical Spanish in U.S. Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy

Objective: To determine characteristics of Medical Spanish education provided to pharmacy students in schools and colleges of pharmacy in the United States. Methods: A survey of U.S. pharmacy schools and colleges was performed to determine availability of Medical Spanish in pharmacy curriculum, course(s) containing Medical Spanish education, and characteristics of Medical Spanish courses. Additional follow-up questions were asked if a school did not offer Medical Spanish. Results: 61 out of 138 institutions completed the survey (response rate = 44%). 36% (22/61) of respondents reported Medical Spanish education was offered in their curriculum. The most common barrier to offering a Medical Spanish course included a lack of personnel to teach the course (n=21, 54%) or no room in the curriculum (n=15, 38%). Conclusion: While there is a limited number of institutions that provide Medical Spanish education to their pharmacy students, results of this survey provide a basic description of Medical Spanish education in schools and colleges of pharmacy in the United States. Data obtained from this survey can be used to refine or initiate Medical Spanish courses, including the teaching and assessment methods used. Conflict of Interest We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties Type: Original Research