cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
STRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT OF HYPODERMIS IN DACRYDIUM TAXOIDES LEAVES

MANY GYMNOSPERMS are characterized by the presence of one or more layers of thick-walled hypodermal cells arranged in various ways beneath the epidermal layer of the foliage leaf. These layers may vary in number with the species, with the age of the leaf, and with habitat. The ontogeny of the hypodermal layer in coniferous leaves has apparently never been studied, although its morphology and ecological significance have received considerable attention. MATERIAL AND METHODS.-The material for this study of Dacrydiun. taxoides Brongn. & Gris. leaves was the same as that for a previous investigation (Lee, 1952). Bailey and Nast's procedure (1943) of clearing with sodium hydroxide proved to be a very satisfactory treatment for whole mounts. After clearing, the leaves were stained in safranin and destained until only the vascular bundle, transfusion tissue, accesory transfusion tissue, stomata, and hypodermis remained colored. Paraffin sections were stained with safranin and fast green. Because of heavy concentration within certain cells of a mucilaginous substance which tends to ohscure cell structure9 hematoxylin was not used. DISTRIBUTION AND STRUCTURE OF HYPODERMAL CELLS IN THE LEAF.-The hypodermis is located on both sides of the leaf between the epidermis and palisade layer. These hypodermal cells are arranged in bands parallel to the longitudinal axis of the leaf and eventually underlie the entire surface, except where interrupted by strips of parenchyma above which the rows of stomata are situated (fig. 3). In some areas, the hypodermis forms a double layer. The accessory transfusion tissue (Lee, 1952) extends perpendicularly from the vascular bundle toward the margin of the leaf, so that these two tissues, hypodermis and accessory transfusion tissue, are arranged at right angles to each other (fig. 1). Mature hypodermal cells are usually long and are pointed at the ends (fig. 4), although some at the apical portion of the leaf are shorter and have rounded tips. These cells are heavily lignified and are similar in structure to the libriform wood fibers of angiosperms. The walls bear simple pits (fig. 5) and numerous short projections are distributed irregularly on those hypodermal cells which are in contact with parenchyma cells. This dentate character is developed late in ontogeny, and may be a result of a local and restricted extension of the cells into the sinuses between turgid parenchyma cells. On the other hand, certain of the very slender
Arginase Inhibition in Airways from Normal and Nitric Oxide Synthase 2-Knockout Mice Exposed to Ovalbumin

Arginase1 and nitric oxide synthase2 (NOS2) utilize l-arginine as a substrate, with both enzymes expressed at high levels in the asthmatic lung. Inhibition of arginase in ovalbumin-exposed C57BL/6 mice with the transition state inhibitor N(omega)-hydroxy-nor-l-arginine (nor-NOHA) significantly increased total l-arginine content in the airway compartment. We hypothesized that such an increase in l-arginine content would increase the amount of nitric oxide (NO) being produced in the airways and thereby decrease airway hyperreactivity and eosinophilic influx. We further hypothesized that despite arginase inhibition, NOS2 knockout (NOS2-/-) mice would be unable to up-regulate NO production in response to allergen exposure and would demonstrate higher amounts of airway hyperreactivity and eosinophilia under conditions of arginase inhibition than C57BL/6 animals. We found that administration of nor-NOHA significantly decreased airway hyperreactivity and eosinophilic airway inflammation in ovalbumin-exposed C57BL/6 mice, but these parameters were unchanged in ovalbumin-exposed NOS2-/- mice. Arginase1 protein content was increased in mice exposed to ovalbumin, an effect that was reversed upon nor-NOHA treatment in C57BL/6 mice. Arginase1 protein content in the airway compartment directly correlated with the degree of airway hyperreactivity in all treatment groups. NOS2-/- mice had significantly greater arginase1 and arginase2 concentrations compared to their respective C57BL/6 groups, indicating that inhibition of arginase may be dependent upon NOS2 expression. Arginase1 and 2 content were not affected by nor-NOHA administration in the NOS2-/- mice. We conclude that l-arginine metabolism plays an important role in the development of airway hyperreactivity and eosinophilic airway inflammation. Inhibition of arginase early in the allergic inflammatory response decreases the severity of the chronic inflammatory phenotype. These effects appear to be attributable to NOS2, which is a major source of NO production in the inflamed airway, although arginase inhibition may also be affecting the turnover of arginine by the other NOS isoforms, NOS1 and NOS3. The increased l-arginine content in the airway compartment of mice treated with nor-NOHA may directly or indirectly, through NOS2, control arginase expression both in response to OVA exposure and at a basal level.
Methisoprinol for children with early phase dengue infection: a pilot study

Background Dengue fever is associated with many health complications and medical costs. Furthermore, there is currently no approved dengue antiviral medication or vaccine. Empiric evidence has suggested that patients who received supplemental methisoprinol therapy had faster recovery times and fewer complications . Objective To detennine the effects of oral methisoprinol on the clinical course and laboratory findings of children with early phase dengue infection. Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind study from June to September 2012 on 22 children aged 2.7-16.8 years with laboratory-confirmed early dengue infection. Subjects had not previously received antithrombotic agents, nor did they have bleeding disorders or immunodeficiency. We randomized the subjects to receive either oral methisoprinol (100 mg/kg BW/day, divided into four doses) or placebo for 72 hours, with 11 subjects per group. The primary endpoint was fever clearance time (FCT), and secondary endpoints were platelet nadii; white blood cell (WBC) nadii; maximum hemoconcentration, length of hospital stay, and development of complications . Results The mean decrease in WBC count was less with methisoprinol than with placebo [1.14 (SD 0.84) vs 2.60 (SD 3.12) x [09 /L; P = 0.004]. In addition, the mean decrease in platelet count was less in patients on methisoprinol [38.36 (SD 58.3) vs. 50.46 (SD 73.42) x 109/L; P=0.046]. No significant differences between the two groups were found for FCT (P=0.158), length ofhospital stay (P=0.511), hemoconcentration, or dengue complications. Conclusion Methisoprinol initiated at an early phase in dengue infection reduced the anticipated leukopenia by 56% and thrombocytopenia by 24%. Hence it can be used along with standard approved fluid and antipyretic therapy.
Contrast gain control and fine spatial discriminations

The effect of contrast gain control mechanisms on discrimination between highly similar simple and complex stimuli is examined, with a focus on how discrimination accuracy changes as a function of the contrast of stimulus components. Two models of contrast gain control are evaluated. In both, the response of each pathway is attenuated by a factor determined by the total activity in a large pool of pathways. One model bases attenuation on the sum of linear filter responses within this pool; the other, based on Heeger’s contrast energy-driven model [J. Neurophysiol.70, 1885 (1993)], uses squared filter responses. Predictions generated from the models are compared with data from experiments reported here and from the literature. Predictions are made for simple grating stimuli of different sizes and for stimuli to which a second grating component is added either as a second cue or as a mask. With one exception, predictions of the models agree closely with each other and with the data. The exception is a masking study that differentiates the models and supports the filter-driven model over the energy-driven model.
Association of third-trimester abdominal circumference with provider-initiated preterm delivery.

AbstractObjective: Evaluate the association of a small third-trimester abdominal circumference (AC < 10th percentile) in the setting of a normal estimated fetal weight (EFW ≥ 10th percentile) with gestational age at delivery, indication for delivery and neonatal outcomes.Methods: Retrospective cohort study at an academic hospital of women with singleton pregnancy seen for ultrasound from 28+0–33+6 weeks of gestation during 2009–2011. Outcomes were compared between two groups: normal AC (AC and EFW ≥ 10th percentile) and small AC (AC < 10th percentile and EFW ≥ 10th percentile).Results: Among 592 pregnancies, fetuses in the small AC group (n = 55) experienced a higher incidence of overall preterm delivery (RR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.3–3.7) and provider-initiated preterm delivery (RR: 3.7, CI: 1.8–7.5) compared to those in the normal AC group (n = 537). Neonates in the small AC group had a lower median birth weight whether delivered at term (p < 0.001) or preterm (p = 0.04), but were not more likely to experience i...
Shell dynamics and microhabitat selection by striped legged hermit crabs, Clibanarius vittatus (Bosc)

Abstract Hermit crabs respond to odors signaling potential shell availability by (1) withdrawing if they are in relatively large shells; (2) fleeing if the shells are ones they would occupy if given choices; (3) investigating if the shells occupied are relatively small. We used these behavioral responses as measures of shell fit to assess shell resources of Clibanarius vittatus (Bosc). From analysis of responses we conclude shell resources are dynamic. Behavioral tests suggest many crabs occupied relatively large shells in the spring and relatively small shells in the fall. Crabs in shells in which they would remain when presented with excess shells never comprised more than 30% of the population at any time of the year. Behavior of subpopulations of crabs from sand/mud and oyster reef habitats and crabs on land or in water at low tide was determined. In the fall, crabs whose behavior indicated they occupied relatively small shells for their size were found mainly in sand/mud habitats and remained in the water at low tide. Crabs whose behavior suggested shells they occupied that fit well were rare. The few that were found were found mainly in sand/mud habitats and were equally distributed on land and water. Crabs behaving as if shells were large for their size were found distributed evenly throughout oyster reef and sand/mud habitats and on both land and in water at low tide. Distributional results could not be explained by reduced mobility. Movement studies showed that even crabs in weighted shells should not be trapped by a receding tide. We postulate crab habitat choice is a behavioral adjustment that compensates for imperfect shell fit.
A Longitudinal Study of Joint Pain Following SCI: Concurrent Trends in Participation, Depression, and the Effects of Smoking

Background: Even though ample cross-sectional spinal cord injury (SCI)-related pain studies exist, patterns in the development and progression of SCI pain over time have been largely unexplored. Method: The current study examined the number of reported joint pain sites among persons with SCI across a 15-year span. In the present study, changes in pain were examined with regard to changes in physical independence, mobility, social integration, depression, and smoking. Results: Results showed that the number of reported pain sites increased with time regardless of level or completeness of injury. While physical independence, mobility, and social integration remained relatively stable despite increasing numbers of pain sites, increases in depressive symptoms emerged. Finally, smokers with SCI reported more pain sites than their nonsmoking counterparts.
Tetanus Toxin Inhibits Secretion of Lysosomal Contents from Human Macrophages

The mechanism by which tetanus toxin (TT) inhibits the release of neurotransmitters from neurons is unknown. Since secretion of lysosomal contents from monocytes/macrophages (MOs) appears to be similar to the release of synaptosomal contents from neural cells, we examined the effects of TT on MO secretion. Adherent human MOs were cultured overnight with or without TT (1.25 micrograms/ml), washed, and resuspended in TT-free medium. In response to the calcium ionophore A23187, TT-treated MOs secreted significantly less lysozyme (27.2% +/- 3.2%) than did control cells (48.6% +/- 6.8%; 44.1% inhibition, P less than .001). TT inhibition of A23187-stimulated release of lysozyme from MOs was dose dependent, and higher concentrations of A23187 could not overcome the inhibitory effect of TT. MO secretions in response to a second secretagogue, phorbol myristate acetate, was also inhibited by TT. Heated TT (100 C for 1 hr), which has no in vivo toxicity, also failed to inhibit MO secretion. The inhibition of secretion by TT required holotoxin. C- and B-fragments produced no appreciable effect on secretion in response to either secretagogue. These studies indicate that human MOs may be a readily accessible, model system for the study of the biochemical basis of TT intoxication. However, observations in this system must be confirmed in neurons, the natural site of TT intoxication.
South Asian entrepreneurship and the rashomon effect, 1800–1947

While the economic history of modern India (ca. 1800-1947) has attracted increasing attention in recent years, the subject remains a congeries of intriguing puzzles. There is no agreement about the general shape or dimensions, much less the causal relationships, that define the economic career of the region during the century and a half before independence.’ Economic growth (if any) appears to have been slow by contrast with European development during the same period. (Undivided India was roughly the same area as all Europe excluding the USSR.) The few patches of the subcontinent where there seem to have been rapid growth and change did not serve as nodes from which economic expansion proliferated. One aspect of the general intellectual disarray is the inability to specify the role of private initiative in the overall performance of the system. Debate continues in a vigorous but no longer very fruitful way over whether it was the policies of the imperialist ruler or the cultural characteristics of indigenous entrepreneurs that was most responsible for the poor performance of the Indian economy and, more specifically, for its failure to industrialize. We are beginning to get much richer and more
Vacuum-ultraviolet quantum efficiency of a thinned, backside-illuminated charge-coupled device.

The UV quantum efficiency of a Scientific Imaging Technologies (SITe, Beaverton, Ore., formerly Tektronix) 1024 pixel by 1024 pixel thinned and backside-illuminated charge-coupled device has been measured in the wavelength band from 1164 to 5200 A. The 24-μm-pixel device, which does not have an antireflective coating, has an average quantum efficiency of more than 40% in the band from 1164 to 4000 A and a read noise of 15 e−/pixel.
Cardiac malformations in trisomy-18: A study of 41 postmortem cases

The cardiac malformations in 41 karyotyped and autopsy cases of trisomy-18 are presented in detail. The salient findings were a ventricular septal defect in all cases; tricuspid valve anomalies in 33 cases (80%); pulmonary valve anomalies in 30 (70%); aortic valve malformations in 28 (68%); mitral valve anomalies in 27 (66%); polyvalvular disease (that is, malformations of more than one valve) in 38 (93%); a subpulmonary infundibulum (conus) in 40 (98%); a bilateral conus with a short subaortic infundibulum in 1 case with double outlet right ventricle (this being the only documented case of bilateral infundibulum in trisomy-18); double outlet right ventricle in 4 cases (10%), three having a subpulmonary infundibulum only and all 4 having mitral atresia; tetralogy of Fallot in 6 cases (15%), 2 having pulmonary atresia; and a striking absence of transposition of the great arteries and inversion at any level (visceral or cardiac), findings that appear to be characteristic of all trisomies. These data suggest that excessive chromosomal material (as in trisomies) may result in situs solitus at all levels. The malformations of the atrioventricular and semilunar valves were characterized by redundant or thick myxomatous leaflets, long chordae tendineae and hypoplastic or absent papillary muscles. The ventricular septal defect was associated with anterosuperior conal septal malalignment in 25 cases (61%). On the basis of the characteristic valvular lesions, the type of ventricular septal defect and the absence of transposition or inversions, two-dimensional echocardiographic diagnosis of trisomy-18 in the fetus may become possible.
Evaluating the usefulness of phytoliths and starch grains found on survey artifacts

Abstract Archaeologists use survey artifacts to study any number of interesting topics. The focus of this study is to test the usefulness of starch grains and phytoliths found on artifacts recovered during archaeological survey. Phytolith and starch grain analysis was used to determine the level of environmental contamination on three types of medieval ceramics collected during survey work from plowed fields in the parish of Wicken, Northamptonshire, England. The plant residues found on these artifacts were compared with their surrounding soil and with contemporaneous excavated artifacts recovered from under the floorboards of a medieval house in nearby Wyton, Cambridgeshire, England. Through the use of the “piggyback” approach pioneered by Chandler-Ezell and Pearsall, phytoliths and starch grains were systematically removed from the artifacts surface. Residues associated with contamination were removed from the outermost layer of the artifact surface while potentially uncontaminated residues were removed from the innermost layer of the artifact surface. Matching phytoliths and starch grains were found on the outermost surface of the survey artifacts and in the surrounding soils. No phytoliths and starch grains were found on the innermost surface of the survey artifacts suggesting that residues from the surrounding soils did not penetrate into the pores and crevices of the artifacts. The overall results suggest that, although they are preliminary, there is potential for plant residue analysis of survey artifacts.
Enhanced area cursors: reducing fine pointing demands for people with motor impairments

Computer users with motor impairments face major challenges with conventional mouse pointing. These challenges are mostly due to fine pointing corrections at the final stages of target acquisition. To reduce the need for correction-phase pointing and to lessen the effects of small target size on acquisition difficulty, we introduce four enhanced area cursors, two of which rely on magnification and two of which use goal crossing. In a study with motor-impaired and able-bodied users, we compared the new designs to the point and Bubble cursors, the latter of which had not been evaluated for users with motor impairments. Two enhanced area cursors, the Visual-Motor-Magnifier and Click-and-Cross, were the most successful new designs for users with motor impairments, reducing selection time for small targets by 19%, corrective submovements by 45%, and error rate by up to 82% compared to the point cursor. Although the Bubble cursor also improved performance, participants with motor impairments unanimously preferred the enhanced area cursors.
Effects of voluntary eye movement and convergence on the binocular appreciation of depth.

Scaling techniques were employed to establish the relation between perceived distance ratio and physical distance ratio. Measurements were made both with and without free eye movement and under two states of convergence. The results were confirmed using a matching technique. With free eye movement, the perceived ratio is a monotonic increasing function of the physical ratio. Without eye movement, the perceived ratio generally increases, then decreases, as the physical ratio increases. For a given physical ratio, perceived distance ratio is less in the absence of voluntary eye movements. Convergence produces depth micropsia when eye movements are permitted, but not in their absence.
Performance of back propagation networks for associative database retrieval

Back-propagation networks have been successfully used to perform a variety of input-output mapping tasks for recognition, generalization, and classification. In spite of this method's popularity, virtually nothing is known about its saturation/capacity and, in more general terms, about its performance as an associative memory. The authors address these issues using associative database retrieval as an original application domain. Experimental results show that the quality of recall and the network capacity are very significantly affected by the network topology (the number of hidden units), data representation (encoding), and the choice of learning parameters. On the basis of their results and the fact that back-propagation learning is not recursive, the authors conclude that back-propagation networks can be used mainly as read-only associative memories and represent a poor choice for read-and-write associative memories. >
Thermohaline intrusions lie across isopycnals

A MAJOR task of physical oceanography is the determination of the fluxes of heat and salt and the identification of the processes responsible for producing the fluxes. For the development of realistic models of the ocean it is particularly important that fluxes across surfaces of constant density (isopycnal surfaces) be distinguished from those along isopycnals. We report here direct evidence that at least some of the 5–20-m thick intrusions commonly found in regions of strong horizontal variability (fronts) lie across isopycnals. The intrusions are formed by primarily lateral advection to produce complicated interleavings of the differing types of water across the fronts. The ubiquitous occurrence of intrusions in frontal regions and the fact that they cross isopycnal surfaces indicates that they are important factors in the vertical, as well as the horizontal, flux budgets of heat and salt. The low levels of cross-isopycnal fluxes due to small scale turbulence away from fronts1 further suggests that these intrusions may be important in the overall global flux budgets of heat and salt.
Spinal cord transplants permit the growth of serotonergic axons across the site of neonatal spinal cord transection

These experiments were designed to determine whether transplants of fetal spinal cord tissue into lesioned spinal cord in newborn rats provide a terrain that supports the growth of serotonergic (5-HT) axons across the site of the lesion. Although descending serotonergic axons can regenerate after chemical lesions in adult animals, they show little regrowth after surgical lesions. In newborn animals, 5-HT axons do not regrow after either chemical or mechanical lesions since the axotomized raphe-spinal neurons die. After partial spinal cord lesions made in developing animals, immature axons can take an aberrant route around the site of the lesion to reach normal target areas. Even these robust, late-growing, uninjured axons, however, are unable to grow through the site of the spinal cord lesion. Immunocytochemical labeling was used to determine if descending serotonergic axons grow into fetal spinal cord transplants, and whether these axons cross the transplant to reach spinal cord levels caudal to the lesion. Spinal cord transection at a mid-thoracic spinal cord level on the day of birth resulted in a dramatic decrease in 5-HT immunoreactivity caudal to the lesion by one day postoperative. 5-HT immunoreactivity caudal to the lesion was abolished by 5 days postoperative and did not return after acute or chronic (6 months) survival periods. When a transplant of fetal spinal cord tissue was placed into the lesion site, 5-HT axons were identified throughout the transplant. At spinal cord levels caudal to the transection and transplant, the serotonergic axons were identified in the host spinal cord in both the white and gray matter. This 5-HT innervation was not confined to spinal cord segments adjacent to the lesion site but extended to spinal cord segments as far as lower lumbar levels. The reinnervation of the host spinal cord caudal to the transection was far less than that seen in unlesioned adult rat spinal cord. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) injected caudal to the transection and transplant, retrogradely labeled neurons within the medullary raphe nuclei. The HRP and 5-HT results both depended on apposition of the transplant with the rostral and caudal stumps of the host spinal cord; without such apposition, labeling was abolished. These results indicate that the presence of a transplant at the site of the neonatal lesion modifies the environment at the lesion site in such a manner as to support the elongation of identified axons across the site of the lesion and into the host cord caudal to the lesion.
Syntactic Patterns in Scientific Sublanguages: A Study of Four Disciplines.

Un echantillon de 2032 phrases tirees de la litterature de 4 disciplines differentes a ete analyse pour faire apparai←tre les regularites et les differences specifiques existant entre elle dans leur utilisation de diverses caracteristiques syntaxiques. Parmi celles qui ont ete analysees et qui sont necessairement des parties de phrases bien formulees, il est apparu que les deux disciplines representant les sciences sociales different rarement de facon significative entre elles, et que la meme remarque s'applique aux deux disciplines de sciences exactes. Par contre, les differences entre sciences sociales et exactes sont tres sensibles. En ce qui concerne les caracteristiques syntaxiques d'elements qui ne sont pas necessaires dans une phrase, peu de differences existent entre les sciences sociales alors que les differences sont nettement marquees dans les sciences exactes. Une variete de regularites syntaxiques est aussi notee. (INTD)
Evaluation of techniques to demonstrate foot-and-mouth disease virus in bovine tongue epithelium: Comparison of the sensitivity of cattle, mice, primary cell cultures, cryopreserved cell cultures and established cell lines

Tongue epithelia infected with each of the 7 serotypes of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) were used to evaluate in vivo and in vitro systems for the detection of FMDV. Cattle inoculated by the intradermal route in the tongue (IDL) and suckling mice inoculated intraperitoneally were compared for susceptibility to FMDV with freshly prepared bovine thyroid cell cultures; cultures from cryopreserved bovine thyroid, bone marrow, mammary gland, myocardium, tongue, ovary and kidney cells; cultures from cryopreserved embryonic ovine kidney, newborn ovine kidney, ovine testicle, bone marrow, and chloroid plexus cells; and the continuous porcine kidney cell lines MVPK-1 and S6. The mean titers determined for each serotype in each system were statistically compared. The FMDV titers obtained in freshly prepared bovine thyroid cell cultures and by cattle IDL inoculation were the highest and were statistically indistinguishable. The titers obtained by suckling mouse inoculation were significantly lower than the titers obtained in thyroid cultures for serotypes A, C, Asia 1, and SAT 3. The cattle IDL assay was significantly more sensitive than the mouse assay for serotype A. The cell cultures from the cryopreserved newborn ovine kidney and embryonic ovine kidney were significantly less susceptible to serotype Asia 1 when compared with the fresh bovine thyroid cultures, but not significantly different when compared with the cattle assay for all serotypes. Cryopreservation of bovine thyroid cells directly after trypsinization resulted in the loss of susceptibility to FMDV serotype SAT 2. The other cryopreserved cell culture systems exhibited no or minimal susceptibility to all 7 serotypes, or exhibited considerable inconsistency. The established cell lines MVPK-1 and S6 were not susceptible to serotype A, and were less sensitive to serotype C than other culture systems. Quality control of cell cultures used to evaluate field specimens for FMDV was critical. The cell cultures of cryopreserved ovine kidney cells provided the most practical diagnostic system.
Multiple warrant issues: are issue premiums important?

Premiums collected when warrants are issued become part of a firm's capital and are taken into account in the valuation of a company. In this paper formulae are developed to fairly value warrants in the case where multiple warrant issues are outstanding, including consideration of issue premiums collected, extending results in Dayananda and Kemper (2010). The models developed are 'reduced–form' models of the type utilised by Jarrow and Trautmann (2011) and shown to be preferred in Jarrow and Protter (2004). Fair values taking premiums into account are compared with traditional Black–Scholes values and with values that ignore premiums. Comparisons are also made to market prices for a public company with two issues of warrants outstanding. Under conditions generally in effect when multiple issues of warrants exist, the effect of warrant issue premiums may be safely ignored.
Infrared spectra of cyclic and non-cyclic ureas in solution: structures and interactions

Abstract Infrared spectra of 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, 2-imidazolidinone, 1,1,3,3-tetramethylurea, 1,3-dimethylurea, and 1,1-dimethylurea have been collected in a variety of solvents. When the CO stretching frequencies for the molecules in a common solvent were recorded, higher frequencies were found for the cyclic ureas as compared to the non-cyclic ureas. When data were analyzed within each class of urea derivatives, it was found that an increase in the number of methyl groups present on the nitrogen atoms contributed to a decrease in the CO stretching frequency values. The frequencies of the CO stretching modes have been correlated with the electron accepting ability of each solvent (represented by Gutmann electron acceptor numbers). The urea derivatives in the studied series exhibit similar behavior with respect to changing solvent environment despite the differences that exist among the ureas. These observations have been interpreted in terms of the structural characteristics of the ureas.
Finite element modeling and experimental verification of lower extremity shape change under load

Prediction and measurement of residuum shape change inside the prosthesis under various loading conditions is important for prosthesis design and evaluation. Residual limb surface measurements with the prosthesis in situ were used for construction of a finite element model (FEM). These surface measurements were obtained from volumetric computed tomography. A new experimental method for modeling the shape of the in situ lower residual limb was developed based on spiral X-ray computed tomography (SXCT) imaging. The p-version of the finite element method was used for estimating the material properties from known load and displacement data. A homogeneous, isotropic, linear constitutive model with accommodation of the constitutive soft and hard tissues of the residuum was evaluated with static axial loading applied to the in situ prosthesis and compared with experimental results obtained in a human volunteer. Two FEMs were created for similar coronal cross sections of the below knee residuum under two loading conditions. Agreement between observed (from SXCT) and predicted (from FEA) residual limb shape changes inside the prosthesis were maximized with a single modulus of elasticity for the residuum soft tissue of 0.06 MPa, consistent with previously published results. This methodology provides a framework to predict and objectively evaluate FEMs and determine residuum material properties by inverse methods.
Influence of tetrahydrobiopterin on serotonin synthesis, metabolism and release in synaptosomes.

Abstract The effects of (6R)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro- l -biopterin (BH 4 ) on the uptake of tryptophan, its conversion to serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid and on the basal release of 5-HT was studied in rat brain synaptosomes. When BH 4 , the essential cofactor for tryptophan hydroxylase, was incubated with synaptosomes in concentrations varying from 10 to 200 μM, there was no effect on 5-HT formation, metabolism or release. Concentrations of 1–2 mM BH 4 had strong inhibitory effects on 5-HT synthesis. The incubation of synaptosomes with tryptophan increased the synthesis of 5-HT, but BH 4 did not further increase this effect. BH 4 was taken up into synaptosomes in a concentration-dependent manner under all incubation conditions and was stable in the chemically reduced (tetrahydro-) form. These results indicate that increases in the synaptosomal concentration of BH 4 do not increase the synthesis and release of 5-HT. It is concluded from the present results that tryptophan hydroxylase is saturated with BH 4 in synaptosomes.
Rebuttal: growth under selection stimulates Lac(+) reversion (Roth and Andersson).

Like Rosenberg and Hastings (5), Roth and Andersson (6) set up a false trichotomy among directed mutation, hypermutation, and amplification. They then argue that neither directed mutation nor hypermutation can be correct, and, therefore, their amplification model must be. But amplification is not the only alternative. In my review (3) I present another model. In addition, the amplification model simply does not fit the data.
Structural evolution of fault zones in sandstone by multiple deformation mechanisms: Moab fault, southeast Utah

Faults in sandstone are frequently composed of two classes of structures: (1) deformation bands and (2) joints and sheared joints. Whereas the former structures are associated with cataclastic deformation, the latter ones represent brittle fracturing, fragmentation, and brecciation. We investigated the distribution of these structures, their formation, and the underlying mechanical controls for their occurrence along the Moab normal fault in southeastern Utah through the use of structural mapping and numerical elastic boundary element modeling. We found that deformation bands occur everywhere along the fault, but with increased density in contractional relays. Joints and sheared joints only occur at intersections and extensional relays. In all locations, joints consistently overprint deformation bands. Localization of joints and sheared joints in extensional relays suggests that their distribution is controlled by local variations in stress state that are due to mechanical interaction between the fault segments. This interpretation is consistent with elastic boundary element models that predict a local reduction in mean stress and least compressive principal stress at intersections and extensional relays. The transition from deformation band to joint formation along these sections of the fault system likely resulted from the combined effects of changes in remote tectonic loading, burial depth, fluid pressure, and rock properties. In the case of the Moab fault, we conclude that the structural heterogeneity in the fault zone is systematically related to the geometric evolution of the fault, the local state of stress associated with fault slip, and the remote loading history. Because the type and distribution of structures affect fault permeability and strength, our results predict systematic variations in these parameters with fault evolution.
Characteristics of environments, caregivers, and children in three Central American orphanages

This study provides descriptive empirical information on the environments, organizational structure, caregivers, caregiver-child interactions, and children's general behavioral development and problem behaviors from three institutions for young children in Central America. While the institutions were clean, they were physically sparse and had Infant-Toddler Environmental Rating Scale (ITERS; T. Harms, D. Cryer, & R. Clifford, 2006) and Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale (ECERS; T. Harms, R. Clifford, & D. Cryer, 2005) scores that averaged 1.62 (7 = highest). Caregivers provided routine caregiving with limited emotion, responsiveness, support, empathy, or guidance. Caregivers tended to work long hours and then were off 2 to 3 days, and children periodically graduated to new wards, so there was little stability of caregivers in children's lives. Children's average Battelle Developmental Inventory Total Developmental Quotient = 58 to 63, which would be considered mildly-moderately retarded in noninstitutional U.S. populations; no child scored >90, 80% scored <70, and nearly half scored <60. Children displayed high frequencies of indiscriminate friendliness, noncompliance, and provocative and aggressive/violent behaviors. These data and that of a few other studies represent the only comprehensive, empirical description of institutions for young children, which constitutes the independent variable (institutionalization) for a burgeoning literature on postinstitutional adopted children. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that a lack of warm, sensitive, contingently responsive interactions with relatively few consistently available caregivers may be a major contributor to delayed contemporary development and persistent deficits and problems observed in some postinstitutional adopted children and adolescents.
Concise modulation strategies for four-leg voltage source inverters

Continuous and discontinuous pulse-width modulation (PWM) schemes and a novel space vector modulation methodology are proposed in this paper for four-leg DC-AC inverters. Using a space vector definition that includes the zero sequence voltage component and partitioning the feasible sixteen modes into two separate sets-one set having zero sequence voltages with positive magnitudes and the other set with the zero sequence voltages with negative magnitudes-the novel space vector implementation technique is determined as also the discontinuous carrier based PWM scheme. For the continuous carrier based PWM scheme, the indeterminate defining output voltage equations expressed in terms of the existence functions of the switching devices are solved using an optimization technique. The modulation schemes determined are shown by experimental results to synthesis any desirable balanced or unbalanced three-phase voltage sets when operating in the linear modulation region.
An adaptive SOR algorithm and its parallel implementation for power system applications

In our earlier papers,we investigated the parallelization and implementation of Gauss-Seidel (G-S) and Successive Overrelaxation (SOR) power flow analysis on shared memory, (SM) and distributed (DM) machines. For the SOR case, constant acceleration factors obtained from experiments are used to speedup convergence. In this paper, we introduce a new adaptive nonlinear SOR (ANSOR) algorithm which uses an approximated optimal acceleration factor obtained during the iteration process. The algorithm is shown to be faster due to the significant reduction in the number of iterations, and to converge robustly under heavily-loaded conditions on large power systems. We also implement parallel and sequential versions of our ANSOR algorithm on the nCUBE2 machine, and show that our algorithm is competitive with the fast decoupled load flow (FDLF) algorithm. Moreover, the portability of the parallel ANSOR code is demonstrated by porting the code to the Intel iPSC/860 hypercube and the Paragon mesh MIMD machines. However, our new algorithm is not a panacea for all problems, as we demonstrate with an example from transient stability analysis. >
Cost-effectiveness of transesophageal echocardiographic-guided cardioversion: a decision analytic model for patients admitted to the hospital with atrial fibrillation.

Abstract Objectives. Using a decision-analytic model, we sought to examine the cost-effectiveness of three strategies for cardioversion of patients admitted to the hospital with atrial fibrillation. Background. Transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE)-guided cardioversion has been proposed as a method for early cardioversion of patients with atrial fibrillation. The cost-effectiveness of this approach, relative to conventional therapy, has not been studied. Methods. We ascertained the cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) of three strategies: 1) conventional therapy—transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and warfarin therapy for 1 month before cardioversion; 2) initial TTE, followed by TEE and early cardioversion if no thrombus is detected; 3) initial TEE, with early cardioversion if no thrombus is detected. With strategies 2 and 3, if a thrombus is seen, follow-up TEE is performed. If no thrombus is seen, cardioversion is then performed. All strategies utilized anticoagulation before and extending for 1 month after cardioversion. Life expectancy, utilities (quality-of-life weights) and event probabilities were ascertained from published reports. Cost estimates were based on published data and hospital accounting information. Results. Transesophageal echocardiographic-guided early cardioversion (strategy 3: cost $2,774, QALY 8.49) dominates TTE/TEE-guided cardioversion (strategy 2: cost $3,106, QALY 8.48) and conventional therapy (strategy 1: cost $3,070, QALY 8.48) because it is the least costly with similar effectiveness. Sensitivity analyses demonstrated that TEE-guided cardioversion (strategy 3) dominates conventional therapy if the risk of stroke after TEE negative for atrial thrombus is slightly less than that after conventional therapy (baseline estimate 0.8%). The results also depend on the risk of major hemorrhage but are less sensitive to baseline estimates of morbidity from TEE, cost of TTE, cost of hospital admission for cardioversion and utilities for health states. Conclusions. On the basis of a decision-analytic model, TEE-guided early cardioversion, without TTE, is a reasonable cost-saving alternative to conventional therapy for patients admitted to the hospital with atrial fibrillation. Such a strategy appears particularly beneficial for patients with an increased risk of hemorrhagic complications. Future clinical studies examining the TEE strategy should consider eliminating initial TTE and carefully assess both the thromboembolic and hemorrhagic risk. (J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;29:122–30)>
Shortcomings of Neutrality in Mediation: Solutions Based on Rationality

The authors argue that much of the conventional wisdom about mediation is based on the concept of neutrality — a concept difficult to operationalize. They replace this approach with the goal of providing Symmetric Prescriptive Advice (SPA). SPA is based on Raiffa's decision theoretic approach to negotiation and mediation, coupled with an analysis of common cognitive errors that occur in mediation. SPA requires mediators to: (1) only push for agreements when a positive bargaining zone exists; (2) search for fully efficient agreements; and (3) help the parties think through the issue of fairness.
Optimizing abstract abstract machines

The technique of abstracting abstract machines (AAM) provides a systematic approach for deriving computable approximations of evaluators that are easily proved sound. This article contributes a complementary step-by-step process for subsequently going from a naive analyzer derived under the AAM approach, to an efficient and correct implementation. The end result of the process is a two to three order-of-magnitude improvement over the systematically derived analyzer, making it competitive with hand-optimized implementations that compute fundamentally less precise results.
REEB GRAPH BASED SHAPE RETRIEVAL FOR CAD

Our recent work has described a framework for matching solid of mechanical artifacts models based on scale-space feature decomposition. In this work we adopt a method of comparing solid models based on Multiresolutional Reeb Graphs (MRG) similarity computations. This method was originally proposed by Hilaga et al. in [1]. Reeb Graph technique applies MRG structure to comparisons of approximate models found in the graphics community, such as polygonal meshes, faceted representation and Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) models. First, we provide a brief review of shape matching using Multiresolutional Reeb Graphs and present an approach to matching solid models. Second, we show the performance of the Reeb Graph technique when handling primitive CAD models, such as cubes and spheres; then we perform experiments with more complex models, such as LEGO models and mechanical parts, and we discuss Reeb Graph technique’s performance on complex CAD models. Third, we emphasize several problems with the existing technique. Finally, we conclude with discussion of future work.
Treating Ischemic Stroke as an Emergency

The success of treatment with tissue plasminogen activator serves as an impetus to approach stroke as a medical emergency; diagnosis and treatment must be accurate and prompt. The initial evaluation should be straightforward and aimed at confirming ischemic stroke as the cause of the patient's acute neurologic impairments. Until the usefulness of diagnostic tests to demonstrate an arterial occlusion is established in emergent management, their application before treatment should not be mandated. Most individuals with acute ischemic stroke will receive their initial, key treatment in a community setting. Thus, strategies for emergent treatment should aim at management of patients whose strokes are diagnosed and first treated by emergency treatment and primary care physicians with the collaboration of neurologists.
A critical role for extracellular protein disulfide isomerase during thrombus formation in mice

Thiol isomerases, including protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), catalyze disulfide oxidation, reduction, and isomerization, thereby playing an important role in protein synthesis. To determine whether extracellular PDI mediates thrombus formation in an animal model, PDI expression, platelet accumulation, and fibrin generation were monitored in the blood vessels of mice by intravital fluorescence microscopy following laser-induced arteriolar injury. A time-dependent increase in PDI was observed in murine thrombi following injury. Infusion of the PDI inhibitor bacitracin or a blocking monoclonal antibody against PDI inhibited platelet thrombus formation and fibrin generation. Fibrin deposition is normal in mice lacking the G protein-coupled platelet receptor Par4, although there is no stable accumulation of platelets. Infusion of monoclonal antibodies against PDI into the circulation of Par4(-/-) mice prior to vessel wall injury inhibited fibrin generation. These results indicate that PDI is required in vivo in mice for both fibrin generation and platelet thrombus formation.
Initial Conditions and Near-Field Dynamics in Turbulent Liquid Sheets

High-speed liquid “curtains” have been proposed to protect solid structures in fusion energy applications. Minimizing free-surface waves and spray formation in such flows is important for effective protection in this application. In this work, free-surface waves and turbulent breakup were studied experimentally in jets of water issuing from a rectangular nozzle into ambient air at a Reynolds number of 1.2 × 105. Laser-Doppler anemometry was used to characterize the streamwise and transverse velocity components in the nozzle for two different flow calming section designs. Planar laser-induced fluorescence was used to measure the free-stream position in the near-field of the sheet. The results suggest that transverse velocity fluctuations in the nozzle are the primary factor in determining the amplitudes of free-surface waves. Removing a small amount of low-speed fluid immediately downstream of the nozzle exit (“boundary-layer cutting”) is shown to both significantly reduce free-surface waves and the amount of spray due to turbulent breakup. Overall, boundary-layer cutting appears to have the greatest benefit when used on a “well-conditioned” turbulent liquid sheet.