cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hepatic resection using intermittent vascular inflow occlusion and low central venous pressure anesthesia improves morbidity and mortality.

Hepatic resection results in significant morbidity and mortality primarily related to intraoperatiye blood loss. Intermittent yascular inflow occlusion (VO) and low central venous pressure (CVP) during hepatectomy have been used to reduce blood loss. To determine the benefit or VO and low CVP, we reviewed the outcomes of 168 consecutive patients who underwent liver resection. The results of 78 patients who had undergone hepatic resection between 1993 and 1908 with the use of VO and low CAT (post-VO/CAP) were compared to the previous 90 patients who had undergone hepatcctomy without VO and low CAP (pre-VO/CVP) between 1979 and 1992. Hepatectomies were performed for metastatic disease (65%), hepatoma (20%), and benign minors (15%). Resections included 18 trisegmentectomies, 67 lobectomies, and 83 segmental resections. Patients in both groups were similar with regard to extent of resection. Post-VO/CVP patients had significantly lower median estimated blood loss (725 ml vs. 2300 ml, P <0.001), less postoperative morbidity (10.3% vs. 22.2%, P = 0.038), lower in-hospital mortality (2.6% vs. 10%, P = 0.050), fewer days in the intensive care unit (1.6 ± 0.1 days vs. 5.6 ±1.2 days, P =0.003), and shorter overall length of stay (8.0 ± 0.5 days vs. 15.0 ±1.6 days, P <0.001) than pre-VO/CVT patients. These data suggest that VO and low CAP dunnc liver resection may improve patient outcomes.
The utility of the Galerkin method for the acoustic transmission in an attenuating duct

Abstract A comprehensive solution technique that can be applied to shear flow analysis for acoustic transmission in both hard and soft walled ducts with boundary layer dependence in one or two spatial directions is presented. The method, the weighted residual method of Galerkin, is applied in this paper to the two-dimensional channel for the purpose of ascertaining its applicability to more complicated geometries and with certain limitations appears to be a reliable method for treating both the hard and soft walled configurations. Even though the original intent was to establish the validity of the method for more general cases, it is considered to be a good alternative to the Runge-Kutta method in common use and indeed is superior for certain applications.
Cardiac pacemaker dysfunction in children after thoracic drainage catheter manipulation

Two children underwent placement of permanent, epicardial-lead, dual-chamber, unipolar pacemaker systems for complete heart block. Postoperatively, both patients demonstrated subcutaneous emphysema—in the area of their pulse generators—temporally related to thoracic catheter manipulation. Acutely, each situation was managed with manual compression of the pulse generator, ascertaining appropriate pacemaker sensing and pacing. Maintenance of compression with pressure dressings, vigilant observation/monitoring, and education of the care givers resulted in satisfactory pacemaker function without invasive intervention.
Inhibiting S100B Restores p53 Levels in Primary Malignant Melanoma Cancer Cells

S100 calcium-binding proteins such as S100B are elevated in primary malignant melanoma and are used as markers for this and numerous other cancers. Wild-type p53 protein levels are relatively low in these cancer cells (i.e. when compared with cells without S100B) but are elevated when RNA antisense to S100B is introduced. This result implicates S100B in the down-regulation of p53 and is consistent with the large decreases in p53 protein levels observed previously in transient co-transfections of p53 and S100B (Lin, J., Blake, M., Tang, C., Zimmer, D., Rustandi, R. R., Weber, D. J., and Carrier, F. (2001) J. Biol. Chem. 276, 35037-35041). Down-regulation of p53 in primary malignant melanoma cells is likely the result of a direct interaction with S100B, which was observed by co-immunoprecipitation experiments. Furthermore, p53 binds regions of the S100B promoter, one of which matches the 20-nucleotide p53-binding consensus DNA sequence perfectly. Therefore, when p53 levels increase, it contributes to its own demise by up-regulating the transcription of S100B as part of a negative feedback loop. This is analogous to what is found for another protein that down-regulates p53, namely hdm2 (human double mutant 2).
Effects of human pancreatic and rat hypothalamic growth hormone-releasing factors on growth hormone secretion in steers☆☆☆

Potencies of human pancreatic growth hormone-releasing factor [hpGRF(1–40)-OH] and of a peptide corresponding to the N-terminal 29 residues of rat hypothalamic GRF, [rGRF(1–29)-NH2] were compared in two experiments. Eight Angus steers averaging 297 days of age and 290 kg in February 1984 were used in Exp. 1. Five months later six of the steers, weighing 391 kg, were used in Exp. 2. In Exp. 1, hpGRF(1–40)-OH and rGRF(1–29)-NH2 were infused for 5 min at rates of 0, 1.3, 2.6, 5.2, 7.8 and 13.3 pmol/min/kg. Two steers were infused simultaneously, one received hpGRF(1–40)-OH and the other the equivalent dose of rGRF(1–29)-NH2. Four pairs of steers received each dose. Both peptides elicited rapid GH release. Plasma GH concentrations peaked 15 to 20 min following onset of GRF administration, and returned to baseline levels 60 to 90 min later. Minimum effective doses, the lowest dose tested that resulted in a statistically significant GH reponse, were 5.2 pmol/min/kg hpGRF(1–40)-OH and 13.3 pmol/min/kg rGRF(1–29)-NH2. Magnitudes of GH responses to 5.2, 7.8 and 13.3 pmol/min/kg hpGRF(1–40)-OH and 13.3 pmol/min/kg rGRF(1–29)-NH2 were similar; corresponding to respective peak concentrations of 79, 66, 57 and 56 ng/ml. Growth hormone levels before GRF administration averaged 16 ng/ml. Experiment two was designed like the first except steers were infused for 6 hr with hpGRF(1–40)-OH and rGRF(1–29)-NH2 at rates of 0, .5 and 1 pmol/min/kg. Both peptides at both rates raised (P<.05) GH concentrations during the 6 hr infusion period. Mean GH levels were 7 ng/ml during saline infusion, 30 and 23 ng/ml during infusion of .5 pmol/min/kg hpGRF(1–40)-OH and rGRF(1–29)-NH2, and 41 and 27 ng/ml during infusion of 1 pmol/min/kg of the respective peptides. The initial GH response was biphasic, after which GH levels decreased temporarily and then one or two more GH surges occurred during the latter portion of the infusion period. Results demonstrate that hpGRF(1–40)-OH and rGRF(1–29)-NH2 are potent GH secretagogues in steers. Potency of rGRF(1–29)-NH2 is about 40% of hpGRF(1–40)-OH. Intrinsic activities, their ability to stimulate maximum GH secretion, appear to be similar. Both peptides are effective in raising GH levels over a 6 hr constant infusion period.
Nguyen van be as propaganda hero of the North and South Vietnamese governments: A case study of mass media conflict

Nguyen Van Be was a typical Vietnamese fighter who fought for both Vietnams. For the North, he was a departed ammunition carrier later made into the legends only propagandists could weave through radio, film, and print media. But, one Be of the same likeness, family background, and experiences was discovered in the custody of the South Vietnamese, who promptly put the live “hero” on display to world and Vietnamese media. The lines were drawn and the battle of the leaflets, radio broadcasts, broadsides, and mass meetings began. In this case study, the mechanisms which proliferated Be's heroism, the dearth of heroes on both “sides,” and an assessment concerning the effectiveness of such activity for the purpose of encouraging defection among enemy ranks are discussed.
Bereaved adolescents' evaluations of the helpfulness of support-intended statements: Associations with person centeredness and demographic, personality, and contextual factors

Currently, there is a lack of reliable methods for assessing how bereaved adolescents perceive the informal support they receive. This study provides methodological refinements in, and a theoretical grounding for, a recently developed measure designed to distinguish support efforts that bereaved adolescents find helpful versus harmful. Participants (114 bereaved adolescents) completed the Support Intended Statement Survey (SISS), which assessed the perceived helpfulness of 14 strategies intended to comfort the bereaved. These 14 strategies were coded for the degree of person centeredness they manifested. Level of strategy person centeredness was strongly correlated with perceived strategy helpfulness. Reported helpfulness of the strategies varied substantially as a function of participants' general levels of perceived support availability, but varied less as a function of demographic and contextual factors.
Gel electrophoresis measurement of counterion condensation on DNA

We used agarose gel electrophoresis to measure the effective charge neutralization of DNA by counterions of different structure and valence, including Na+, Mg2+, Co(NH3)3+6, and spermidine3+, which competed for binding with an excess of Tris acetate buffer. Linear DNA molecules ranged in size from 1 to 5 kilobases, and supercoiled plasmid pUC18 was also measured. In all cases, the results were in good agreement with theoretical predictions from counterion condensation theory for two-counterion mixtures.
Material Properties of Semiconductor Strained-Layer Superlattices

High quality superlattices can be grown from semiconductor materials with lattice mismatches of several percent if the layers are kept sufficiently thin. The mismatch in these structures is accommodated by coherent layer strains, so that misfit defects are not generated at the superlattice interfaces. These strained-layer superlattices have unique structural, optical, and electrical properties due to both the large layer strains and the flexibility in the choice of lattice mismatched layer materials. Recent results which demonstrate the high crystalline quality of these mismatched heterostructures are reviewed. Further results are presented which illustrate some of the unique material properties of these structures, and potential applications associated with such properties are discussed.
Microstructural and chemical effects of wet/dry cycling on pulp fiber-cement composites

The microstructural and chemical mechanisms responsible for pulp fiber–cement composite degradation during wet/dry cycling are being investigated through environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and mechanical testing. Based on these results, a three-part progressive degradation mechanism for cast-in-place kraft pulp fiber–cement composites is proposed, which involves: (1) initial fiber–cement or fiber interlayer debonding, (2) reprecipitation of needle-like or sheath-like ettringite within the void space at the former fiber–cement interface or between the S1 and S2 fiber layers, and (3) fiber mineralization due to reprecipitation of calcium hydroxide filling the spaces within the fiber cell wall structure. This investigation also revealed that kraft pulp fibers exhibit poor resistance to degradation due to their inferior dimensional stability, as compared to thermomechanical pulp (TMP) fibers. TMP fibers contain significant amounts of lignin, which is alkali sensitive. Despite this, TMP fiber–cement composite exhibit improved resistance to degradation during wet/dry cycling. It is proposed that this improvement in durability may be attributed to the presence of lignin in the cell wall restricting fiber dimensional changes during wetting and drying, and hence, minimizing fiber–cement debonding. Additionally, it is proposed that lignin acts as physical barrier to calcium hydroxide formation within the fiber cell wall, minimizing fiber mineralization of TMP fibers.
The Intersection of Inquiry-Based Science and Language: Preparing Teachers for ELL Classrooms

As teacher educators, we are tasked with preparing prospective teachers to enter a field that has undergone significant changes in student population and policy since we were K-12 teachers. With the emphasis placed on connections, mathematics integration, and communication by the New Generation Science Standards (NGSS) (Achieve in Next generation science standards, 2012), more research is needed on how teachers can accomplish this integration (Bunch in Rev Res Educ 37:298–341, 2013; Lee et al. in Educ Res 42(4):223–233, 2013). Science teacher educators, in response to the NGSS, recognize that it is necessary for pre-service and in-service teachers to know more about how instructional strategies in language and science can complement one another. Our purpose in this study was to explore a model of integration that can be used in classrooms. To do this, we examined the change in science content knowledge and academic vocabulary for English language learners (ELLs) as they engaged in inquiry-based science experience utilizing the 5R Instructional Model. Two units, erosion and wind turbines, were developed using the 5R Instructional Model and taught during two different years in a summer school program for ELLs. We analyzed data from interviews to assess change in conceptual understanding and science academic vocabulary over the 60 h of instruction. The statistics show a clear trend of growth supporting our claim that ELLs did construct more sophisticated understanding of the topics and use more language to communicate their knowledge. As science teacher educators seek ways to prepare elementary teachers to help preK-12 students to learn science and develop the language of science, the 5R Instructional Model is one pathway.
The Bacterial Flora of the Female Rat Genital Tract

A study of the genital microflora in virgin female rats of reproductive age has demonstrated that alpha and nonhemolytic streptococci, Pasteurella pneumotropica, diphtheroid bacilli, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Proteus mirabilis are the predominant genital organisms. The pH of the rat vagina was demonstrated to be near neutrality. It is suggested that the higher pH in the rat vagina as compared to the human vagina may account for some of the differences between human and rat genital microflora.
Toward a process standard in cytopathology.

BACKGROUND. The question of the minimum number of Papanicolaou (Pap) smear slides that must be rescreened to draw statistically valid conclusions regarding the accuracy of screening often is raised. No method for generating answers in varying laboratory circumstances has achieved widespread application; standard statistical sample size calculations may represent such a resource. METHODS. A series of tables was constructed to display minimum required numbers of rescreens, with each table representing differing hypothetical laboratory circumstances. To use each table, assumptions must be specified in advance as to prevalence of abnormality, definition of error, baseline false-negative proportions (FNPs) of performance, and a degree of increase in FNPs that is considered a departure from baseline warranting concern, among others. RESULTS. The authors constructed four sample tables displaying minimum numbers of slides that must be rescreened in differing specified laboratory scenarios. Depending on assumed conditions and predetermined levels of satisfactory and unsatisfactory accuracy, the range of numbers is very broad (38-10,000). One example representing likely conditions indicates that 1040 slides must be reexamined ; in another scenario, a sample size of 300 is sufficient. CONCLUSIONS. The minimum number of rescreened slides needed to draw statistically valid conclusions regarding Pap smear screening accuracy can be calculated using standard statistical methods. However, a number of assumptions must be detailed in advance. The authors offer this as a practical guide and a continuation of a general inquiry regarding Pap smear error rate measurement and display. The use of these tables raises at least as many questions as it answers, but still may represent a significant advance. Future efforts at further numeric characterization of aspects of Pap smear screening performance are warranted to enable rational decision making when performance is examined in the course of quality assurance, and during quality control and regulatory activities. [See editorial on pages 127-9, this issue.
Sterol metabolism. XLII. On the interception of singlet molecular oxygen by sterols.

— The use of cyclic 1,3-dienes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as xenobiotic substrates for the interception of electronically excited (singlet) molecular oxygen (1O2) in biological systems is reviewed and criticized, and the possibility of utilization of reactive endogenous substrates for 1O2 interception is considered. The common sterols, cholesterol, 5α-cholest-7-en-3β-ol, and 5α-lanost-8-en-3β-ol each give oxidation products with 1O2 different from those with ground-state molecular oxygen that can be distinguished from one another by simple chromatographic means.
Lipoblastic meningioma: “Vacuolated meningioma”

This report describes and illustrates seven cases of benign meningeal tumors, including one in the retro-bulbar region of the orbit, which were characterized by vacuolated signet-ring cells. Occasional typical meningothelial areas were also seen; however, the signet-ring cells were the dominant feature. The vacuoles were consistently negative with the various stains for mucin. In one single case in which nonparaffin-embedded tissue was still available, the vacuoles were positive for fat stains. Immunohistochemical stains done in three of the cases showed that the tumor cells were positive for vimentin. S-100 protein was definitely positive in two cases and weakly positive in one. One of the three cases was positive for cytokeratin and another was positive for epithelial membrane antigen. The name "lipoblastic meningioma" appears to be acceptable as a descriptive term, since these tumors are, in our opinion, of definite meningeal origin, probably representing a predominantly mesenchymal (lipocytic) differentiation of the arachnoidal cells. This term, however, does not imply a clinical behavior analogous to that of true liposarcoma. In fact, these tumors have consistently behaved as benign local problems, analogous to the biologic course of ordinary meningioma.
Synthesis, Structure, and Properties of Zirconium and Hafnium Complexes Containing η2‐Pyrazolato Ligands

Treatment of tetrakis(dimethylamido)zirconium with four equiv. of 3,5-dimethylpyrazole, 3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazole, or 3,5-diphenylpyrazole in refluxing toluene afforded tetrakis(η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)zirconium (86 %), tetrakis(η2-3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazolato)zirconium (88 %), and tetrakis(η2-3,5-diphenylpyrazolato)zirconium (85 %), respectively, as colorless crystalline solids. The analogous hafnium complexes were prepared through treatment of hafnium tetrachloride with four equiv. of the potassium salts of 3,5-dimethylpyrazolate, 3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazolate, or 3,5-diphenylpyrazolate in tetrahydrofuran to afford tetrakis(η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)hafnium (75 %), tetrakis(η2-3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazolato)hafnium (58 %), and tetrakis(η2-3,5-diphenylpyrazolato)hafnium·toluene (38 %), respectively, as colorless crystalline solids. X-ray crystal structures of representative members of these complexes revealed monomeric species containing four η2-pyrazolato ligands and approximate dodecahedral geometry about the metal centers. Treatment of tetrakis(η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)hafnium with 3,5-dimethylpyrazole in a 1:1 molar ratio afforded tris(η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)(η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)(η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazole)hafnium as colorless crystals (84 %). Tris(η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)(η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)(η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazole)hafnium contains three η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato, one η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato, and one η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazole ligands. The η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato and η1-3,5-dimethylpyrazole ligands are connected through a N–H···N hydrogen bond. Tetrakis(η2-3,5-dimethylpyrazolato)hafnium did not form an adduct with pyridine or tetrahydrofuran, suggesting that the formation of a hydrogen bond is important to the stability of adducts. Attempted sublimation of all of the new pyrazolato complexes led to some decomposition, as evidenced by the formation of the free pyrazoles in the sublimates and significant amounts of nonvolatile residues. This work greatly expands the number of zirconium and hafnium complexes that contain η2-pyrazolato ligands. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Microscopic calculation of the imaginary part of the nucleon optical potential

Abstract We calculate the imaginary part of the nucleon self-energy in nuclear matter, due to the coupling to two-particle, one-hole and one-particle, two-hole excitations. The matrix elements of the full nuclear hamiltonian are evaluated in a correlation operator basis, including two-body and three-body separable terms in the cluster expansion. Our results for scattering states are in agreement with the empirically adjusted optical model parameters at energies below 100 MeV, while at higher energies the calculated points lie somewhat above the empirical ones. For bound states the widths are consistently smaller than the data. A part of this discrepancy we attribute to the coupling to surface vibrations, not present in infinite nuclear matter.
Hierarchical Bayesian approach for jointly-sparse solution of multiple-measurement vectors

It is well-known that many signals of interest can be well-estimated via just a small number of supports under some specific basis. Here, we consider finding sparse solution for Multiple Measurement Vectors (MMVs) in case of having both jointly sparse and clumpy structure. Most of the previous work for finding such sparse representations are based on greedy and sub-optimal algorithms such as Basis Pursuit (BP), Matching Pursuit (MP), and Orthogonal Matching Pursuit (OMP). In this paper, we first propose a hierarchical Bayesian model to deal with MMVs that have jointly-sparse structure in their solutions. Then, the model is modified to account for clumps of the neighbor supports (block sparsity) in the solution structure, as well. Several examples are considered to illustrate the merit of the proposed hierarchical Bayesian model compared to OMP and a modified version of the OMP algorithm.
Late Mesozoic strike slip movement on the Border Ranges Fault System in the Eastern Chugach Mountains, southern Alaska

Preliminary studies of mylonitic rocks from the Haley Creek metamorphic assemblage in south-central Alaska suggest that the Border Ranges fault system was a strike slip, ductile-shear zone during part of its late Mesozoic history. Evidence for this strike slip event is limited to the hanging wall of the Border Ranges fault system, where deformed crystalline rocks were apparently subjected to a retrograde, mylonitic deformation prior to subduction-related underthrusting of the latest Cretaceous Valdez Group, but subsequent to a Late Jurassic plutonic event. The strike slip interpretation contrasts with previous interpretations, which related mylonitic fabric development to multiple deformational events during underthrusting of the Chugach terrane, a conflict resulting from the interpretation of lineation as an intersection lineation parallel to the Y axis of strain versus an extension lineation. Evidence for horizontal stretching on a vertical flattening plane includes: (1) a parallelism between all lineations, including intersection lineations, and unequivocal extension lineations developed within systems of strike slip, ductile-shear zones, (2) extensional fragmentation of feldspars parallel to lineation, (3) local rodding and development of L-tectonites, (4) boudin axes at a high angle to lineation, (5) crystallographic preferred orientations of quartz, and (6) syn-kinematic crack-seal veins with fibers parallel to lineation. The local parallelism between intersection lineations and extension lineation is interpreted as a consequence of sheath folding in a high-strain zone, and we suggest that it is this complication that is largely responsible for confusion on the kinematic history. Despite evidence for a strain pattern consistent with a strike slip shear zone, evidence for noncoaxial strain and a clear sense of shear is elusive. Nonetheless, coaxial deformation seems unlikely given the structural position of the mylonitic rocks along an ancient plate boundary. Regional correlation of rock types is suggestive of a dextral offset of at least 50 km, although this offset could be due to younger faulting. Thus further work will be needed to clearly distinguish a dextral versus sinistral sense of shear. Important absolute age problems still remain, and thus the tectonic significance of the strike slip event is uncertain. However, the general late Mesozoic age places the event within an important time period in the history of the northern Cordillera. Thus the strike slip event may have (1) played a role in a transform history preceding Early Cretaceous thrusting along the Border Ranges fault system, (2) been a complication from collision of Wrangellia with North America, and (3) been important in the northward transport of outer Cordilleran terranes that is implied by paleomagnetism.
Semantic Visual Features in Content-based Video Retrieval

A new semantic visual features (e.g., car, mountain, and fire) navigation technology is proposed to improve the effectiveness of video retrieval. Traditional temporal neighbor browsing technology allows users to navigate temporal neighbors of a selected sample frame to find additional matches, while semantic visual feature browsing enables users to navigate keyframes that have similar features to the selected sample frame. A pilot evaluation was conducted to compare the effectiveness of three video retrieval designs that support 1) temporal neighbor browsing; 2) semantic visual feature browsing; and 3) fused browsing which is a combination of both temporal neighbor and semantic visual feature browsing. Two types of searching tasks: visual centric and non-visual centric tasks were applied. Initial results indicated that the semantic visual feature browsing system was more efficient for non-visual centric tasks.
Propagation of hydromagnetic waves normal to the magnetic field in the presence of currents

Abstract Hydromagnetic waves propagated normal to the magnetic field in the presence of a steady current density are investigated. Current densities and parameters characteristic for parts of the ionosphere and magnetosphere are considered. The current density is introduced into the macroscopic equations by assuming drift velocities of the electron and ion fluids. Solutions of the dispersion relation which follow from these equations are considered for special cases. Propagation parallel to the magnetic field has been considered in a previous publication. Two special cases for propagation normal to the magnetic field are considered in this paper. In the first case, propagation normal to the magnetic field with currents along the propagation vector is considered. Solutions of the dispersion relation for this case correspond to stable waves. The second case deals with propagation normal to the magnetic field with currents normal to both the propagation vector and the magnetic field. Solutions of the dispersion relation for the second case indicate a convective instability arising from the presence of the transverse currents. The waves may be amplified in this case. Some numerical results for data representative of the ionosphere and magnetosphere are given.
Finite element modeling of stress in the nazca plate: Driving forces and plate boundary earthquakes

The state of stress within the Nazca plate due to plate driving forces and large plate boundary earthquakes has been analyzed by applying a finite element method using the wave front solution technique to models of the intraplate stress field in a single plate using a refined grid. Although only static elastic models have been explicitly calculated, certain limiting cases of an elastic plate over a viscous asthenosphere were also treated. A state of nearly east-west compression inferred from the source mechanism of thrust earthquakes in the interior of the plate requires ridge pushing forces. The net pulling force on the oceanic plate by the subducted slab has a maximum value comparable to pushing forces. The estimated horizontal deviatoric stress in intraplate regions, based on potential forces associated with the ridge, is on the order of a few hundred bars. The intraplate stress field in the region of the 1960 earthquake may change by a few tens of bars at most once the asthenosphere has relaxed, with changes on the order of one bar occurring at greater distances into the plate. The changes in the intraplate stress field are probably not noticeable unless the lithosphere is near failure.
Interneurons as backseat drivers and the elusive control variable

It is proposed here that the spinal network of proprioceptive feedback from length and force receptors constitutes the mechanism underlying the coordination of activation thresholds for muscles acting about the same and neighboring joints. For the most part, these circuits come between motoneurons and supraspinal signals, invalidating the idea that the activation thresholds constitute control variables for the motor system.
VISCOELASTIC SEISMIC RESPONSES OF 2D RESERVOIR MODELS

The use of relaxation mechanisms has recently made it possible to simulate viscoelastic (Q) effects accurately in time-domain numerical computations of seismic responses. As a result, seismograms may now be synthesized for models with arbitrary spatial variations in compressional- and shear-wave quality factors (Q[sub p] and Q[sub s]), as well as in density ([rho]) and compressional- and shear-wave velocities (V[sub p] and V[sub s]). Reflections produced by Q contrasts alone may have amplitudes as large as those produced by velocity contrasts. Q effects, including their interaction with V[sub p], V[sub s] and [rho], contribute significantly to the seismic response of reservoirs. For ban-limited data at typical seismic frequencies, the effects of Q on reflectivity and attenuation are more visible than those on dispersion. Synthetic examples include practical applications to reservoir exploration, evaluation and monitoring. Q effects are clearly visible in both surface and offset vertical seismic profile data. Thus, AVO analyses that neglect Q may produce erroneous conclusions.
Isotopic evidence for biological controls on migration of petroleum hydrocarbons

The isotopic compositions of potential metabolic byproducts of petroleum hydrocarbon biodegradation in soil gas and groundwater samples from a shallow plume of aviation gas (AVGAS) were analyzed to assess levels and pathways of intrinsic bioremediation occurring at the site. Gasoline range organic compounds (GROs) in soil gas samples from the original source area were low ( 20% in the central part of the plume and correlated well with GRO concentrations. The 14 C contents of the CH4, associated soil gas CO2 and dissolved inorganic carbon compounds (DIC) in the groundwater were all less than 0.1 times modern, indicating they were primarily formed from degradation of AVGAS and not other potential carbon sources such as degradation of natural organic matter or dissolution of carbonate shells. The dD and d 13 C values of the CH4 indicate that it was produced via acetate fermentation. The d 13 C values of CO2 and DIC in the central part of the plume were high, suggesting that a large fraction of the CO2 in that area was also produced by acetate fermentation. At the down-gradient edges of the plume, CH4 levels dropped to zero and the d 13 C values of CO2 were much lower (ˇ26-), indicating that aerobic degradation of the AVGAS was dominant in this area. Beyond the down-gradient edges of the plume, the 14 C contents of both groundwater DIC and soil gas CO2 were significantly below modern levels, implying that most of the carbon there was derived from hydrocarbons and had migrated beyond the edge of the plume. These data show that methanogenic activity in the central part of the plume was slowly degrading the AVGAS, but aerobic activity at the edges of the plume was eAectively limiting migration of the hydrocarbons. # 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Specific Binding of RGS9-Gβ5L to Protein Anchor in Photoreceptor Membranes Greatly Enhances Its Catalytic Activity

Abstract The complex between the short splice variant of the ninth member of the RGS protein family and the long splice variant of type 5 G protein β subunit (RGS9-Gβ5L) plays a critical role in regulating the duration of the light response in vertebrate photoreceptors by activating the GTPase activity of the photoreceptor-specific G protein, transducin. RGS9-Gβ5L is tightly associated with the membranes of photoreceptor outer segments; however, the nature of this association remains unknown. Here we demonstrate that rod outer segment membranes contain a limited number of sites for high affinity RGS9-Gβ5L binding, which are highly sensitive to proteolysis. In membranes isolated from bovine rod outer segments, all of these sites are occupied by the endogenous RGS9-Gβ5L, which prevents the binding of exogenous recombinant RGS9-Gβ5L to these sites. However, treating membranes with urea or high pH buffers causes either removal or denaturation of the endogenous RGS9-Gβ5L, allowing for high affinity binding of recombinant RGS9-Gβ5L to these sites. This binding results in a striking ∼70-fold increase in the RGS9-Gβ5L ability to activate transducin GTPase. The DEP (disheveled/EGL-10/pleckstrin) domain of RGS9 plays a crucial role in the RGS9-Gβ5L membrane attachment, as evident from the analysis of membrane-binding properties of deletion mutants lacking either N- or C-terminal parts of the RGS9 molecule. Our data indicate that specific association of RGS9-Gβ5L with photoreceptor disc membranes serves not only as a means of targeting it to an appropriate subcellular compartment but also serves as an important determinant of its catalytic activity.
Customer satisfaction as a basis for targeting online buyers

In selected segments of the event management industry, online buyers are being targeted in order to realise cost savings in the areas of registration, confirmation and client database management. Yet little is known about possible revenue-side impacts of targeting online versus traditional buyers. This study examined multiple measures of postconsumption satisfaction for a well-known annual event and looked for differences between online versus traditional buyers. At issue is whether online buyers are intrinsically more (less) satisfied than traditional buyers. Also, the relationships between customer expectations and satisfaction and between satisfaction and repurchase intent are examined for both online and traditional buyers.
LICENSING AGRICULTURAL INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: HOW SHOULD PUBLIC R&D INSTITUTIONS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES RESPOND?

In the 21st century, licensing is the most common vehicle by which Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), especially for agricultural biotechnology, are transferred from inventors to users. In this paper, we argue that due to the strong association between IPR and agricultural biotechnology, technology transfer (e.g., licensing), needs to be conducted differently for agricultural biotechnology products. We examine two important licensing mechanisms: the patent license and material transfer agreements, and their unique features, and issues associated with their use. And yet, it's important to note that these legal instruments for agricultural biotechnology are contextual, case-specific, and may even be country-specific. We hope that this paper can serve as a starting point for discussion, and/or a guide for public research institutions in developing countries to more effectively use these technology transfer tools. We also present a few case examples that highlight the experiences of other national research institutions in handling these legal mechanisms. Learning from these experiences may help other institutions maximize benefits while minimizing cost and risk under the new context of technology transfer for agricultural innovations.
Increased temperature, not cardiac load, activates heat shock transcription factor 1 and heat shock protein 72 expression in the heart

The expression of myocardial heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) postexercise is initiated by the activation of heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1). However, it remains unknown which physiological s...
On the negative hypergeometric distribution

A negative hypergeometric random variable, Yr, records the waiting time in trials until the rth success is obtained in repeated random sampling without replacement from a dichotomous population of N containing n ( ≥ r) successes S, and m failures F. In this paper we give a probability space for Yr and a representation of Yr in terms of exchangeable random variables from which one can easily deduce the probability distribution of Yr, E(Yr ) and σ2 (Yr ). We then indicate a compound (Beta) binomial derivation of the distribution and moments of Yr and give the maximum likelihood estimates of n and m and p = n/N and N in the general case when n and m are unknown.
High-resolution breath-hold contrast-enhanced MR angiography of the entire carotid circulation.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of breathing on image quality of the aortic arch and carotid vessels during contrast-enhanced MR angiography and to show that high-resolution breath-hold contrast-enhanced MR angiography combined with a timing-bolus technique can produce high-quality images of the entire carotid circulation.MATERIALS AND METHODS. Forty patients underwent high-resolution contrast-enhanced MR angiography on a 1.5-T Magnetom Symphony. A coronal three-dimensional (3D) gradient-echo sequence (TR/TE, 4.36/1.64; flip angle, 25°) with asymmetric k-space acquisition was used. The 136 × 512 matrix yielded voxel sizes of 1.33 × 0.64 × 1.0 mm. A timing-bolus acquisition, orientated in the coronal plane to include the aortic arch, was obtained initially during free-breathing. Twenty milliliters of gadopenetate dimeglumine was injected at 2 mL/sec. Unenhanced and enhanced 3D volumes were recorded. A subtracted 3D set was calculated and subjected to a maximum-intensity-proj...
Mozart's chronic subdural hernatorna

No commemoration of the bicentennial of Mozart9s death would be complete without some consideration of that premature yet predictable demise. Mozart9s premonitions of death are well known and apparently played a role in the composition of the K.626 Requiem and perhaps other works. His death has traditionally been ascribed to infectious causes, chiefly rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, exacerbated by intemperance and chronic penury. Pathography has been difficult because of his supposed burial in a pauper9s grave, the location and contents of which were later supposedly lost. Mozart9s burial place in St. Mark9s Cemetery in Vienna was known and, in the parlance of the day, “reorganized” a decade later, as the occupants of plots were disinterred to make room for the more recently deceased. A skull believed to be Mozart9s was saved by the successor of the gravedigger who had supervised Mozart9s burial, and then passed into the collections of the anatomist Josef Hyrtl, the municipality of Salzburg, and the Mozarteum museum (Salzburg). Forensic reconstruction of soft tissues related to this skull reveals substantial concordance with Mozart9s portraits. The skull suggests premature closure of the metopic suture, which has been suggested on the basis of his physiognomy. A left temporal fracture and concomitant erosions raise the question of chronic subdural hematoma, which would be consistent with several falls in 1789 and 1790 and could have caused the weakness, headaches, and fainting he experienced in 1790 and 1791. Aggressive bloodletting to treat suspected rheumatic fever could have decompensated such a lesion to produce his death on December 5, 1791.
Polymer-solvent diffusion and equilibrium parameters by inverse gas-liquid chromatography

The solubility and diffusion coefficients of low-molecular-weight penetrants in a polymeric stationary phase were determined by use of inverse gas chromatography (IGC). Previously reported applications of packed-column IGC to the measurement of the stationary-phase diffusion coefficient have been carried out via the van Deemter approach. We present here a new mathematical model to describe the chromatographic process in packed columns. A moment analysis procedure was developed from this model to analyze the chromatographic peaks eluting from packed columns. The first moment (mean retention time) is determined to depend only on the equilibrium partition coefficient, whereas the second moment (variance) is related to both the thermodynamic and transport properties of the polymer-solute system. The validity of the technique was demonstrated by measuring the diffusivity and solubility of toluene and benzene in polystyrene above the glass transition temperature of the polymer. Free-volume theory was used to interpret and correlate the diffusivity data obtained at infinite dilution of the solute. One can use the results obtained at infinite dilution to predict reliably via the free-volume theory the concentration and temperature dependence of polymer-solvent diffusion coefficients.
Strategies for Success in Online Learning

The nursing and nursing faculty shortages have created a greater need for effective online learning strategies. Today's learners require the flexibility offered by online learning, but only when well grounded in sound teaching-learning principles. This article describes strategies for online learning designed to keep the needs of today's learners in mind. These strategies are focused on the resolution of technology problems as well as the learning process.
Customer Service Management Practices in the Homebuilding Industry

Studies on customer service in the homebuilding industry have demonstrated that customer satisfaction increases repeat business and, eventually, increases market share. Research efforts focusing on customer satisfaction typically determine the key attributes of satisfied buyers. From this knowledge, homebuilders can provide those services that contribute to an increased level of homebuyer satisfaction. While the knowledge of what satisfies the homebuyer is invaluable, a desire for consistency in homebuyer satisfaction would suggest that the homebuilder establish processes and procedures for customer service, which should be managed properly to ensure customer satisfaction. To better understand the customer service management practices of regional homebuilders, a survey was mailed to 92 residential contractors who were randomly selected from the member list of a local homebuilder association. This article summarizes the responses received. While the results of this study are limited to the geographic regio...
Charge radii from lattice relative charge distributions

Abstract Electromagnetic charge radii values are extracted from relative charge distribution data for pseudoscalars using lattice QCD techniques. This is done with Wilson fermions and SU(2) color at five values of the hopping parameter.
Submarine groundwater discharge to a small estuary estimated from radon and salinity measurements and a box model

Abstract. Submarine groundwater discharge was quantified by a variety of methods for a 4-day period during the early summer of 2004, in Salt Pond, adjacent to Nauset Marsh, on Cape Cod, USA. Discharge estimates based on radon and salinity took advantage of the presence of the narrow channel connecting Salt Pond to Nauset Marsh, which allowed constructing whole-pond mass balances as water flowed in and out due to tidal fluctuations. The data suggest that less than one quarter of the discharge in the vicinity of Salt Pond happened within the pond itself, while three quarters or more of the discharge occurred immediately seaward of the pond, either in the channel or in adjacent regions of Nauset Marsh. Much of this discharge, which maintains high radon activities and low salinity, is carried into the pond during each incoming tide. A box model was used as an aid to understand both the rates and the locations of discharge in the vicinity of Salt Pond. The model achieves a reasonable fit to both the salinity and radon data assuming submarine groundwater discharge is fresh and that most of it occurs either in the channel or in adjacent regions of Nauset Marsh. Salinity and radon data, together with seepage meter results, do not rule out discharge of saline groundwater, but suggest either that the saline discharge is at most comparable in volume to the fresh discharge or that it is depleted in radon. The estimated rate of fresh groundwater discharge in the vicinity of Salt Pond is 3000-7000 m3 d-1. This groundwater flux estimated from the radon and salinity data is comparable to a value of 3200-4500 m3 d-1 predicted by a recent hydrologic model (Masterson, 2004; Colman and Masterson, 2004), although the model predicts this rate of discharge to the pond whereas our data suggest most of the groundwater bypasses the pond prior to discharge. Additional work is needed to determine if the measured rate of discharge is representative of the long-term average, and to better constrain the rate of groundwater discharge seaward of Salt Pond.
Stress effects of water sorption in cure baked photoresist underlayers on the magnetic easy axis of Permalloy film overlayers

Variations in the uniaxial mechanical stress of Permalloy films can change the magnetic easy axis of the Permalloy films through the magnetostrictive effect. Conventional inductive film heads are fabricated with the use of cure baked photoresist (CBP). We show that water absorption in the CBP can produce significant changes in the magnetic properties of Permalloy films similar to those used in recording head yokes. The diffusion coefficient of water in 3 /spl mu/m thick CBP films was measured with a quartz crystal microbalance and found to be 2.2/spl times/10/sup -9/ cm/sup 2//s at 25 degrees C. A large and reversible change in the magnetic easy axis is observed in 1 /spl mu/m thick Permalloy films that overlay a mound of CBP when it is exposed to water vapor. We infer from the observed magnetic easy axis changes that uniaxial stresses of greater than 5/spl times/10/sup 8/ dynes/cm/sup 2/ are produced due to the swelling and contraction of the underlaying CBP. >
Coordinated Interpersonal Timing of Vision and Voice as a Function of interpersonal Attraction

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the interpersonal coordination of vocal and visual timing within the conversational interactions of dyad members who liked each other, who disliked each other, and who did not know each other. Time series regression analyses were used to provide an estimate of the temporal coordination of each dyad. Pairs of women were selected for participation in one of the three conditions of 'like', 'dislike', and 'unacquainted' on the basis of their ratings of each other on a sociogram. Each pair was videotaped while engaging in a 30-minute, relatively unconstrained conversation. The videotapes were coded electronically to determine the vocal characteristics of the conversations and by trained coders to determine the pattern of direct and averted gaze of the interactants. The results indicated a high degree of coordinated interpersonal timing across dyads. Furthermore, the initial dyadic categorisation of interpersonal attraction was differentiated by the magnitude ...