cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 and the dental profession: Establishing a safe dental practice for the coronavirus era

The aim of this article was to provide evidence-based information for the oral health-care providers to better understand the COVID-19 disease and be prepared to treat their patients. The impact of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic has been unprecedented, especially in health care. Overwhelming amount of information flooded the literature to the point that dentists and specialists alike might feel more confused than knowledgeable, which can make decision-making a challenge. Dental community is no stranger to infection control and to treat patients with highly infectious diseases. With careful planning, modifications, and sound clinical judgment, it is certainly feasible to provide routine care to the patients during the pandemic and serve the community. Negative pressure ventilation operatories and/or air purifiers are good addition to contain the droplet transmitted diseases including COVID-19. It is of particular importance for health-care providers to take appropriate measures to minimize the risk of infection to their patients, themselves, and other members of the dental team.
Oral Regeneration Is the Default Pathway Triggered by Injury in Hydra

Abstract In animals capable of whole-body regeneration, a single bisection injury can trigger two different types of regeneration. Currently, it is not well understood how this adaptive response is transcriptionally regulated. We therefore comprehensively characterized transcript abundance and chromatin accessibility during two types of regeneration—oral and aboral regeneration—in the cnidarian Hydra vulgaris. We found that there was an initial generalized response to injury that was not dependent on the type of structure being regenerated. Canonical Wnt signaling, which specifies oral tissue in cnidarians, was activated during this generalized response, likely through the direct upregulation of Wnt ligands by conserved injury-responsive transcription factors. As regeneration progressed, transcription diverged and Wnt signaling became restricted to oral regeneration. We found that TCF, the transcription factor downstream of Wnt signaling, was required for the initiation of oral and aboral-specific transcription, suggesting that the Wnt pathway is important for both types of regeneration. Finally, we found that Wnt signaling was also activated by puncture wounds and that removing pre-existing organizers induced these injuries to undergo ectopic head regeneration. Our work suggests that injuries activate an oral regeneration program, and that other regeneration outcomes are caused by signals from the surrounding tissue. Furthermore, these findings suggest that Wnt signaling may be part of an ancient and conserved metazoan wound response program predating the split of cnidarians and bilaterians.
Wavelet based multiresolution zero-crossing representations

This research proposes a new signal representation based an multiscale zero-crossings of the signal. It is shown that the original signal is uniquely characterized by its zerocrossing representation. The representation is insensitive to translation of the input signal. In this approach, the zero-crossing information is supplemented with the first moment of the signal to stabilize the representation. This technique, initially suggested by otiiers for wavelet transform zero-crossings, results in a method for reconstructing the original signal from its multiscale zero-crossings. The signal recovery algorithm is fast and efficient, and suggests completeness of the representation. The representation has been successfully applied to the classification of ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation signals from of welds, multiresolution reconstruction of images and unsupervised signal donoising.
The Health Burden of Transfeminine Facial Gender Dysphoria: An Analysis of Public Perception

Objectives/Hypothesis: The face is a major communicator of gender identity. Transfeminine individuals report debilitating quality-of-life deficits as a result of their gender dysphoria, which may b...
Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, bovine viral diarrhea and parainfluenza-3 viral antibodies in Louisiana cattle

In 1976 serum samples from five herds in Louisiana were tested for antibodies to infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD), and parainfluenza-3 (PI-3) viruses. These cattle were free of obvious signs of illness and had not received IBR, BVD, or PI-3 viral vaccines. Of the 444 serum samples, 155 (34.9%) had antibodies to IBR virus; 302 (68.0%) to BVD virus; and 404 (91.9%) to PI-3 virus.
Role of Light Intensity and Temperature in the Regulation of Hydrogen Photoproduction by the Marine Cyanobacterium Oscillatoria sp. Strain Miami BG7.

The effects of several key environmental factors on the development and control of hydrogen production in the marine blue-green alga (cyanobacterium) Oscillatoria sp. strain Miami BG7 were studied in relation to the potential application of this strain to a bio-solar energy technology. The production of cellular biomass capable of evolving hydrogen gas was strongly affected by light intensity, temperature, and the input of ammonia as a nutrient. Depletion of combined nitrogen from the growth media was a prerequisite for the initiation of hydrogen production. Maximum hydrogen-producing capability coincided with the end of the linear phase of growth. Hydrogen production exhibited considerable flexibility to environmental extremes. The rate of production saturated at low light intensities (i.e., 15 to 30 muEinsteins/m per s), and no photoinhibition was observed at high light intensity (i.e., 1,000 muEinsteins/m per s). The upper temperature limit for production was 46 degrees C. Above the light compensation point for O(2) evolution H(2) production was inhibited. However, this problem was alleviated by two related phenomena. (i) The capacity of cells to evolve oxygen deteriorated with increasing culture age and nitrogen depletion, and (ii) the ability of these cells to produce oxygen in closed anaerobic hydrogen production systems was temporally limited.
Optical imaging of visual cortex epileptic foci and propagation pathways

Summary Precise localization of neocortical epileptic foci is a complex problem that usually requires ictal video–electroencephalography (EEG) recordings; high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) studies; and/or invasive monitoring with implanted grid array electrodes. The exact ictal-onset site must be identified and removed to obtain the best opportunity for a seizure-free outcome. The goal of this study was to determine if high-resolution optical imaging could precisely identify neocortical epileptic foci and what role underlying neuroanatomic pathways played in the seizure propagation. Small acute epileptic foci (0.5 × 0.5 mm2) were created in the primate visual neocortex and single-unit and surface EEG recordings were combined with optical imaging of voltage-sensitive dye changes. Brief visual stimulation was used to evoke interictal bursts. In addition, different visually evoked epileptiform bursts were analyzed to determine the location of the epileptic focus. Spike-triggered averaging of the optical images associated with the surface EEG interictal bursts were analyzed to determine the exact location of the epileptic focus. Specific orientations of brief visual stimulation evoked different intensity optical changes and precisely localized the epileptic focus. Optical imaging identified individual epileptic foci that were <3 mm apart. The development of individual epileptic focus was monitored with optical imaging, which demonstrated excitatory activity at the focus with a surrounding zone of inhibitory-like activity. Propagation pathways outside of the inhibitory-like surround demonstrated alternating bands of excitation and inhibition with a pattern orthogonal to the ocular dominance columns. This experimental study demonstrates that optical imaging can precisely localize an epileptic focus, and provides excellent spatial resolution of the changes that occur in and around the site of the epileptic focus.
Japanese I/O technology-where it is and how it got there

Japanese companies are currently among the world leaders in developing and marketing computer input/output (I/O) devices, particularly facsimile transceivers, CRT and flat-panel displays, and matrix and laser printers. This situation has developed from a base of inexpensive, high-quality, mass-produced consumer products of all types, from word-processors and TV sets to cameras and wristwatches. There are many aspects of the Japanese society and economy which have made this possible. The author assesses the status of current Japanese I/O devices and attempts to draw some conclusions from the ways by which Japanese entrepreneurs have utilized a strong base in mass-produced consumer goods in combination with the underlying nature of the country to develop computer peripherals which in many cases are technological leaders. >
Retrieval and Feedback Models for Blog Distillation

This paper presents our system and results for the Feed Distillation task in the Blog track at TREC 2007. Our experiments focus on two dimensions of the task: (1) a large-document model (feed retrieval) vs. a small-document model (entry or post retrieval) and (2) a novel query expansion method using the link structure and link text found within Wikipedia.
The international e‐marketing framework (IEMF)

Purpose – International e‐marketing is emerging as an important area for marketers, as global online markets expand. This special issue is an attempt to encourage, showcase, and guide research in the area of international e‐marketing.Design/methodology/approach – In the editorial, Introduces the international e‐marketing framework (IEMF) as a guiding template for future research in international e‐marketing.Findings – The IEMF should help shape scholarly inquiry in the domain of international e‐marketing, classify current intellectual contributions in this area and delineate the gaps in the literature.Originality/value – The editorial presents the IEMF and classifies various papers in this issue using this framework. Finally, concludes with several compelling research questions to motivate future research in this area.
Polyamines enhance calcium mobilization in fMet‐Leu‐Phe‐stimulated phagocytes

Spermidine and putrescine (50 microM-1 mM), found in exudates from infection sites, significantly enhance fMet-Leu-Phe-induced Ca2+ mobilization in differentiated HL-60 cells and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) by delaying the return to basal cytosolic Ca2+ levels. This enhancement by polyamines is associated with inhibition of Ca2+ efflux across the plasma membrane. In parallel with their effects on Ca2+ signaling, polyamines also significantly prolong the kinetics of fMet-Leu-Phe-induced protein kinase C translocation. Thus, polyamines may play a novel role in modulating regulatory events in phagocytes.
Alternative Mentoring of Street Girls in Bangladesh: New Identities and Non-Traditional Opportunities.

This article examines how mentoring and female role models enhance perceptions of self‐worth and career aspirations for adolescent girls from low socioeconomic backgrounds. It describes an eight‐week project that provided nine girls from the slums of Bangladesh with female role models and mentors in a modern work environment. The project involved collaboration between a charity hostel for low‐income girls and a private international school that aimed to raise self‐esteem and awareness of non‐traditional career and lifestyle options for the participating girls. Qualitative data collected during the project from participants’ diaries, focus group discussions, and mentor and participant interviews are analysed for evidence of the effectiveness of mentoring for empowerment rather than skill acquisition. The author concludes with reflection on the potential use of mentoring in non‐formal educational and vocational settings for the empowerment of adolescent girls from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Hinge morphogenesis in the shells of larval and early post-larval mussels (Mytilus edulis L. and Modiolus modiolus (L.))

Scanning electron and optical microscopic examination of the hinge apparatus and primary ligament pit of two Recent mytilids (Mytilus edulis and Modiolus modiolus) revealed a similar sequence of ontogenetic changes in both species from the prodissoconch I stage through metamorphosis. Hinge-line dentition was absent at the prodissoconch I stage. Provinculum length and complexity increased throughout larval development with progressive lateral thickening characteristic of the family Mytilidae.
Spin diffusion in electron-electron double resonance

Abstract ELDOR measurements have been made over a range of temperature for 10−2 M and 7.5 × 10−5 M solution of nitroxide in ethylbenzene and in paraffin oil. The results extend those of Smigel et al. to condition of shorter τc and confirms the importance of spin diffusion as a relaxation mechanism for ELDOR. The significant observation is that when Δν = νp − νo is small, the ELDOR magnitude, R(ν) increases monotonically with the decrease of temperature approaching a plateau value. On the other hand for large Δν, the changes in R(ν) turns around at τc ∼ 10−7 sec. This behavior can be explained by the step size in radians for a free diffusion model required for spin diffusion to compete effectively against electron relaxation. Large size steps become improbable at low temperatures. The magnitude of R(ν) is also not symmetrical about Δν = 0.
Development and characterization of a hemolytic assay for mouse C4

Abstract The previously described one-step hemolytic assay for the fourth component of complement (C4) that employs C4-deficient (C4D) guinea pig serum was modified to allow assessment of mouse C4. Of a number of variables evaluated including the class and quantity of sensitizing antibody, concentration of C4D serum and metals, ionic strength of the buffer, and the duration and temperature of incubation, substitution of IgG anti-sheep red blood cell antibodies for the standard IgM hemolysin and the use of C4D serum at relatively high concentrations (1 : 20) were necessary to obtain an accurate, reproducible and sensitive hemolytic assay. The sensitivity of the assay could be increased approximately 2-fold by the addition of human C2 and approximately 30% by employing 51 Cr-labeled sheep red blood cells. The former probably helped to overcome a partial incompatibility between mouse C4 and guinea pig C2 and the latter permitted the use of 10-fold fewer erythrocytes in the assay system. Employing this assay, C4 activity was determined in H2-congenics and recombinants and the effect of age, sex, and methods of procuring and preserving mouse serum and plasma evaluated. In most strains, males had a 10–30% higher level of C4 hemolytic activity than females, and young ( 20 weeks) mice had lower activity compared to mice between 6 and 12 weeks. Procuring samples in 5 mM EDTA (final concentration) and subsequent storage at −70°C permitted long-term preservation without loss of hemolytic activity. Allowing mouse blood to clot at 4, 22 or 37°C, even for brief periods, was associated with complement activation and depletion of C4 functional activity. C4 assays of H2-congenics and infromative recombinants conclusively demonstrated that this hemolytic activity mapped to the S region of the H -2 complex.
Radiometer Footprint Model to Estimate Sunlit and Shaded Components for Row Crops

This article describes a geometric model for computing the relative proportion of sunlit vegetation, shaded vegetation, sunlit soil, and shaded soil appearing in a circular or elliptical radiometer footprint for row crops, where the crop rows were modeled as continuous ellipses. The model was validated using digital photographs of row crops, where each component was determined by supervised classification. Root mean squared errors (RMSE) between modeled and observed components were 35, 49, 29, and 44% of observed means for sunlit vegetation, shaded vegetation, sunlit soil, and shaded soil, respectively. Mean bias errors (MBE) were, respectively, −5.6, 16.6, −4.0, and −0.5% of observed means. The continuous ellipse model was compared to the commonly used clumping index model, where the latter estimates total vegetation and total soil, but does not resolve these into their sunlit or shaded components and does not account for radiometer footprint shape dimensions. The continuous ellipse model resulted in RMSE for vegetation and soil of 22 and 19%, respectively, whereas the clumping index model resulted in respective RMSE of 37 and 31%. The continuous ellipse model had MBE of 3.3 and −2.6% for vegetation and soil, respectively, which was slightly greater than the respective MBE of −1.5 and 1.4% for clumping index model. Given the model sensitivity and uncertainty of leaf area index (LAI), the RMSE and MBE resulting from the continuous ellipse model would not be expected to be less than 20% of the observed means, and model performance was therefore deemed reasonable in this study.
An efficient non-parametric analysis of recognition memory

A method for efficient evaluation of the results of recognition memory experiments is illustrated. The method is based upon the area under the iso-mnemonic curve relating correct and incorrect acceptances obtained by means of ratings.
NF-κB-Inducing Kinase Regulates the Processing of NF-κB2 p100

Processing of the nf(kappa)b2 gene product p100 to generate p52 is an important step in NF-kappaB regulation. We show that this step is negatively regulated by a processing-inhibitory domain (PID) within p100 and positively regulated by the NF-kappaB-inducing kinase (NIK). While the PID suppresses the constitutive processing of p100, NIK induces p100 processing by stimulating site-specific phosphorylation and ubiquitination of this precursor protein. Further, a natural mutation of the gene encoding NIK in alymphoplasia (aly) mice cripples the function of NIK in p100 processing, causing a severe defect in p52 production. These data suggest that NIK is a specific kinase regulating p100 processing and explain why the aly and nf(kappa)b2 knockout mice exhibit similar immune deficiencies.
γ-Aminobutyric acidA receptor regulation: heterologous uncoupling of modulatory site interactions induced by chronic steroid, barbiturate, benzodiazepine, or GABA treatment in culture

Abstract Prolonged administration of anxiolytic, sedative, and anticonvulsant drugs that act through the GABA A receptor (GAB A R) can evoke tolerance and dependence, suggesting the existence of an endogenous mechanism(s) for altering the ability of such agents to interact with the GABA A R. Uncoupling appears to be one such mechanism. This is a decrease in the allosteric interactions between the benzodiazepine (BZD) recognition site and other agonist or modulator sites on the GABA A R, as measured by potentiation of [ 3 H]flunitrazepam ([ 3 H]FNZ) binding. To investigate the mechanism(s) of uncoupling, neuronal cultures were treated chronically with 3α-hydroxy-5β-pregnan-20-one (pregnanolone), pentobarbital, flurazepam, or GABA, then tested for enhancement of [ 3 H]FNZ binding by these substances. The results indicate that BZDs, barbiturates, and steroids, as well as GABA itself, are capable of inducing both heterologous and homologous uncoupling. Surprisingly, different chronic drug treatments produce different patterns of homologous and heterologous uncoupling. Chronic exposure to pregnanolone, GABA, flurazepam or pentobarbital induces complete uncoupling of barbiturate-BZD site interactions, partial uncoupling of GABA-BZD site interactions, but different amounts of uncoupling of steroid-BZD site interactions. In addition, the EC 50 for pregnanolone-induced homologous uncoupling (1.7 μM) is over an order of magnitude greater than that for heterologous uncoupling of GABA and BZD sites (82 nM). Moreover, heterologous uncoupling by pregnanolone is inhibited by the GABA site antagonist SR-95531, whereas homologous uncoupling by pregnanolone is resistant to SR-95531. Therefore, there are at least two distinct ways in which GABA A R modulatory site interactions can be regulated by chronic drug treatment.
Nonexclusionary input prices

This article models a vertically integrated provider that is a monopoly supplier of an input that is essential for downstream production. An input price that is ‘too high’ can lead to inefficient foreclosure and one that is ‘too low’ creates incentives for nonprice discrimination. The range of nonexclusionary input prices is circumscribed by the input prices generated on the basis of upper-bound and lower-bound displacement ratios. The admissible range of the ratio of downstream to upstream price–cost margins is increasing in the degree of product differentiation and reduces to a single ratio in the limit as the products become perfectly homogeneous.
Single-Cell Biopsy using Nanopipettes

To fully understand cell functioning and stochastic gene expression patterns, it necessary to measure molecular interactions at the single cell level. Advances in microscopy as well as genomics technology have enabled detailed analysis of gene expression at the single-cell level, but the means to manipulate individual cells are still limited. Nanotechnology-based tools having high sensitivity and low invasiveness are holding great promises as new biomedical devices for single cell manipulation. The fully electrical read-out as well as the ease and low cost of fabrication are unique features that give nanopipette technology enormous potential. We developed a single-cell manipulation platform based on nanopipettes. The system uses scanning microscopy techniques to position the nanopipette with nanoscale precision, and electro-wetting to aspirate minute amount of cytoplasmic material from individual cells without comprising cell viability. It is well documented that the application of a voltage at the interface across two immiscible liquids changes their surface tension. The resulting force is sufficient to cause liquid to flow into/out of the nanopipette, with displacement volumes much smaller than a typical mammalian cell. Multiple biopsies can be taken from the same cell to study gene expression patterns. We will present preliminary RNA-seq data of material biopsied from a single cell. We envision that this technology will allow biological analysis with unprecedented level of detail, allowing a better understanding of single cell dynamics.
Changes in protein expression across laboratory and field experiments in Geobacter bemidjiensis.

Bacterial extracellular metal respiration, as carried out by members of the genus Geobacter, is of interest for applications including microbial fuel cells and bioremediation. Geobacter bemidjiensis is the major species whose growth is stimulated during groundwater amendment with acetate. We have carried out label-free proteomics studies of G. bemidjiensis grown with acetate as the electron donor and either fumarate, ferric citrate, or one of two hydrous ferric oxide mineral types as electron acceptor. The major class of proteins whose expression changes across these conditions is c-type cytochromes, many of which are known to be involved in extracellular metal reduction in other, better-characterized Geobacter species. Some proteins with multiple homologues in G. bemidjiensis (OmcS, OmcB) had different expression patterns than observed for their G. sulfurreducens homologues under similar growth conditions. We also compared the proteome from our study to a prior proteomics study of biomass recovered from ...
Greater expectations: adolescents' positive motivations for sex.

Effective STD and pregnancy prevention efforts should benefit from knowledge of what motivates adolescents to have sex. Positive motivations and how they differ by gender and sexual experience are poorly understood. A sample of 637 ninth graders were asked about their relationship goals expectations of the degree to which sex would satisfy these goals and sexual experience. Three scales measured adolescents goals for intimacy sexual pleasure and social status within a romantic relationship. Another three scales measured expectations that sex would lead to these goals. Data were examined in analyses of variance and mixed models. Participants valued intimacy the most then social status and finally sexual pleasure. These relationship goals differed significantly by gender and sexual experience. Females valued intimacy significantly more and sexual pleasure less than males. Sexually experienced adolescents valued both intimacy and pleasure more than sexually inexperienced adolescents. Among females but not males sexually experienced adolescents valued the goal of social status less than those with no sexual experience did. Adolescents expected that sex would most likely lead to sexual pleasure then intimacy and finally social status. Females and sexually inexperienced adolescents reported lower expectations that sex would meet goals than did males and sexually experienced participants. Adolescents view intimacy sexual pleasure and social status as important goals in a relationship. Many have strong positive expectations that sex would satisfy these goals. Prevention programs and providers should address the risks of sex in the context of expected benefits. (authors)
Directed assembly and in situ manipulation of semiconductor quantum dots in liquid crystal matrices

The ability to control and direct self-assembly of nanostructures into specific geometries with new functionalities, while preserving their original optical and electronic properties, is an attractive research endeavor. We have fabricated liquid crystal (LC) based matrices into which chemically synthesized nanostructures of varied morphologies and compositions are uniformly dispersed. Using high resolution spatially- and time-resolved scanning photoluminescence (PL) measurements, we have demonstrated directed nanoparticle assembly and manipulation in situ. This includes (a) directional assembly and electric field modulated re-orientation of disk-shaped gallium selenide nanoparticles using a nematic LC matrix, and (b) spectral modulation of chemically synthesized core shell CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) embedded in a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) matrix. Our work opens up the possibility of designing new QD based optical devices where spatial control of orientation, wavelength and polarization of the embedded QDs would allow great flexibility and added functionalities.
Serine and Cysteine Proteinase Inhibitors Prevent Nitric Oxide Production by Activated Macrophages by Interfering with Transcription of the Inducible NO Synthase Gene

The objective of this study was to ascertain the mechanism by which serine and cysteine proteinase inhibitors interfere with production of NO by LPS-activated rat alveolar macrophages. Macrophages were incubated in the presence of LPS+ test agent for 24 hr. Culture media were analyzed for NOX- accumulation, harvested cells were assayed for iNOS activity, and cellular RNA was extracted for determination of iNOS mRNA by Northern blot analysis. TPCK, TLCK, calpain inhibitor 1 (CPI-1) and calpain inhibitor 2 (CPI-2) each inhibited NOX- production and inducible iNOS expression in a concentration-dependent manner at 1-100 microM. TPCK and CPI-1 were about 10-fold more potent than TLCK and CPI-2, respectively. These data suggest that a chymotrypsin-like serine or cysteine proteinase is required for the LPS-inducible expression of the iNOS gene, perhaps by mechanisms involving activation of transcription factor NF-kappa B. Accordingly, a potent inhibitor of NF-kappa B activation whose action is attributed to inhibition of the chymotrypsin-like activity of the multicatalytic proteinase complex (MPC) was tested. Z-IE(O-t-Bu)A-Leucinal abolished NOX- production and inducible iNOS expression at 1 microM and showed over 50% inhibition at 10 nM. These observations indicate that inhibitors of MPC interfere with iNOS induction and provide strong evidence that MPC functions importantly in iNOS induction in macrophages.
A dimensionality reduction approach to modeling protein flexibility

Proteins are involved either directly or indirectly in all biological processes in living organisms. It is now widely accepted that conformational changes of proteins can critically affect their ability to bind other molecules and that any progress in modeling protein motion and flexibility will contribute to the understanding of key biological functions. However, modeling protein flexibility has proven a very difficult task. Experimental laboratory methods such as X-ray crystallography produce rather few structures, while computational methods such as Molecular Dynamics are too slow for routine use with large systems. A medium sized protein typically has a few thousands of degrees of freedom. This paper shows how to obtain a reduced basis representation of protein flexibility. We use the Principal Component Analysis method, a dimensionality reduction technique, to transform the original high dimensional representation of protein motion into a lower dimensional representation that captures the dominant modes of motions of the protein. Although there is inevitably some loss in accuracy, we show that we can obtain conformations that have been observed in laboratory experiments, starting from different initial conformations and working in a drastically reduced search space.
What can a computer learn from examples

About a year ago, I wrote an article that appeared in SIGART Newsletter [1] In that article, I asked "How well can computers generate programs from examples of what those programs are supposed to do?" My answer was that they cannot do very well If by "computers" we mean devices that only do total computations. I attempted to show that, under what seemed to me to be quite reasonable assumptions, a computer limited to doing total computations an a sequence of examples could only generate finitely many programs altogether and therefore (obviously) only finitely many programs that correctly accounted for the examples given.
Water temperature and accuracy of alginate impressions

Abstract This investigation was undertaken to determine the influence of the temperature of the water used for mixing on the accuracy of alginate impressions. A total of thirty gypsum casts were made with three brands of impression material and four water temperatures. Six dimensions were evaluated. No significant differences due to water temperature were observed. Dimensional changes that appear to be related to other factors were observed in all casts.
Percutaneous embolization for the management of grade 5 renal trauma in hemodynamically unstable patients: initial experience.

Purpose: We evaluated the efficacy and safety of percutaneous embolization for the treatment of grade 5 renal injuries secondary to blunt trauma in patients who are hemodynamically unstable.Materials and Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of grade 5 blunt renal trauma managed with percutaneous embolization between October 2004 and December 2007. Technical success was defined as complete occlusion of all renovascular bleeding at the end of the procedure. Clinical success was defined as the stabilization of vital signs and absence of need for further surgical or radiological intervention.Results: Nine patients (6 male and 3 female) with grade 5 renal injury secondary to blunt trauma were treated with percutaneous embolization. These patients did not require surgery for other intra-abdominal injuries. Mean patient age was 30 years (median 34, range 5 to 56, SD 15). Mean hospital length of stay was 18 days (median 13, range 5 to 46, SD 14). Mean units of packed red blood cells transfused for eac...
Crack propagation under variable load histories in linearly viscoelastic solids

Crack growth study in viscoelastic solids by linear continuum mechanics, discussing cyclic loads, composite solids mechanical behavior and thermodynamics
Loss-induced limits to phase measurement precision with maximally entangled states

The presence of loss limits the precision of an approach to phase measurement using maximally entangled states, also referred to as NOON states. A calculation using a simple beam-splitter model of loss shows that, for all nonzero values $L$ of the loss, phase measurement precision degrades with increasing number $N$ of entangled photons for $N$ sufficiently large. For $L$ above a critical value of approximately 0.785, phase measurement precision degrades with increasing $N$ for all values of $N$. For $L$ near zero, phase measurement precision improves with increasing $N$ down to a limiting precision of approximately $1.018L\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\text{radians}$, attained at $N$ approximately equal to $2.218∕L$, and degrades as $N$ increases beyond this value. Phase measurement precision with multiple measurements and a fixed total number of photons ${N}_{T}$ is also examined. For $L$ above a critical value of approximately 0.586, the ratio of phase measurement precision attainable with NOON states to that attainable by conventional methods using unentangled coherent states degrades with increasing $N$, the number of entangled photons employed in a single measurement, for all values of $N$. For $L$ near zero this ratio is optimized by using approximately $N=1.279∕L$ entangled photons in each measurement, yielding a precision of approximately $1.340\sqrt{L∕{N}_{T}}\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\text{radians}$.
Recidivism and comprehensive care systems.

Abstract The analysis of a one year followup of schizophrenic patients discharged from a state hospital revealed a remarkably low (17.8%) readmission rate among patients discharged to a comprehensive care system. In contrast, catchment area patients referred outside this system had a readmission rate (50%) similar to those reported for untreated schizophrenics. The latter group, representing less than 20% of the total patient group, was responsible for 50% of the readmissions. Effectiveness of the support system in preventing readmission may relate to a high rate of continuity of treatment in this group. The findings strongly suggest the extension of such support services to all treatment resources.
Age-Dependent Effects of Developmental Lead Exposure on Performance in the Morris Water Maze

The neurobehavioral toxicity of developmental exposure to lead (Pb) was investigated by conducting tests of spatial learning in the Morris water maze. Female Long–Evans rats were exposed to 0 or 250 ppm Pb acetate in the diet beginning 10 days prior to breeding and continued throughout gestation and lactation. Pups were weaned onto the same diets as the dams at postnatal day 20 (PN20). Increased levels of Pb were detected in the hippocampus of the 250 ppm Pb acetate group relative to controls. The highest concentration of Pb measured in the hippocampus was at PN21 with decreasing levels at older ages. In the Morris Water Maze, a statistically significant ( p < 0.03; female rats) or near significant ( p < 0.07; male rats) increase in the time required to find the hidden platform (escape latency) was observed when Pb-treated rats were tested in a reference memory paradigm. This effect was only observed when rats were tested at PN21 and not at older ages. No signif- icant effects of developmental Pb exposure were measured when rats were tested in a working memory paradigm of the Morris water maze at any age. These initial studies indicate an impairment of performance in the swim task in PN21 rats exposed to Pb during development. The age-dependent effect of Pb in this learning paradigm is consistant with previous studies in experimental animals and with the observation that children are more susceptible to Pb-induced cognitive deficits than adults. The Morris water maze may be useful for studying the effects of Pb on learning and memory, and their neurochemical basis.
Synthesis of [8,9-3H2]-(7S)-methoprene, a juvenile hormone analog, by selective reduction of a protected trienoate

High specific activity 3H-(7S)-methoprene is prepared in seven steps from (3S)-citronellol by the use of iron tricarbonyl to protect the dienoate moiety of isopropyl (2E,4E)-3,7,11-trimethyl-2,4,8-dodecatrienoate during heterogeneous tritiation of remote olefinic bond.
Experience with prothrombin complex for the emergent reversal of anticoagulation in rural geriatric trauma patients.

Background Therapeutic anticoagulation in the geriatric trauma population is increasingly common. Fresh frozen plasma, while the criterion standard for correction, has limited availability and associated transfusion risks. We examined our use of prothrombin complex concentrate for immediate reversal of therapeutically anticoagulated geriatric trauma patients. Methods This was a 1-year, retrospective review of 25 geriatric trauma patients who received either fresh frozen plasma alone or prothrombin complex concentrate and met the inclusion criteria of age >55 years, current warfarin use, and an admission international normalized ratio of >1.5. Fifteen patients received prothrombin complex concentrate and 10 patients received fresh frozen plasma alone. We examined demographics, laboratory values, and blood product use. Results The mean ages were similar (77 vs 80 years). Patients had similar mean Injury Severity Score (19.1 vs 19.2). Survivor duration of hospital stay (7.7 vs 9.5; P = .37) and duration of stay in the intensive care unit (4.4 vs 7.1; P = .25) trended positively in the prothrombin complex concentrate group. The prothrombin complex concentrate group received fewer units of fresh frozen plasma (1.6 [range, 0–6] vs 2.7 [range, 2–4]; P = .05), with a greater decrease in international normalized ratio (51% vs 43%; P = .05). Six patients (40%) in the prothrombin complex concentrate group avoided fresh frozen plasma transfusion altogether. Conclusion Prothrombin complex may be used safely and effectively to reverse emergently anticoagulation in geriatric trauma patients.
Adverse Effects of Commonly Ordered Oral Narcotics

Approximately equianalgesic oral doses of codeine, an oxycodone compound resembling Percodan, and pentazocine were compared for adverse effects in a double-blind, randomized study of four doses of each drug given over two days to 247 postsurgical patients with pain. Placebo and parenteral morphine were also treated as negative and positive controls, respectively. Approximately 50 patients each received one of the five drugs. Codeine, pentazocine, and morphine had the same incidence of adverse effects (22 to 28 per cent). One capsule of oxycodone compound was the analgesic equivalent of 12.5 mg morphine with an adverse effect incidence of 4 per cent (placebo 8 per cent). Smoking made no difference in analgesic effect or adverse effects. Analgesics given in the evening intervening between the two days may have affected the analgesic performance of placebo.
Predicting night time dissolved oxygen loss in prawn ponds of Hawaii: Part II. A new method

Abstract Dissolved oxygen concentration (DO), water temperature and wind speed were monitored overnight at prawn ( Macrobrachium rosenbergii ) ponds of Amorient Aquafarm Inc. (Kahuku, Oahu) and at Brigham Young University-Hawaii (Laie, Oahu) from June to November 1985. A new model, the whole pond respiration-diffusion (WPRD) model, was developed to predict pond DO at dawn. The two components comprising the model were whole pond respiration and diffusion. Model inputs included a measurement of pond DO and water temperature at dusk, another DO and temperature measurement made several hours after the dusk measurement, and an estimate of the average wind speed for the night. For a lag of 3 h between the dusk and second DO measurement, the mean absolute deviation of the predicted dawn DO from the observed dawn DO was 0·40 mg O 2 liter −1 (standard error of mean = 0·8 mg O 2 liter −1 ), based on 40 verification trials. The WPRD model performed equally well for both calm nights (wind speed −1 ) and for relatively windy nights (wind speed > 7 m s −1 ).
The wear equation for unfilled and filled polyoxymethylene

Abstract The wear behavior of polyoxymethylene and 20% PTFE-filled polyoxymethylene sliding against a metallic surface was studied. An experimental set-up capable of measuring sliding friction and providing wear under variable conditions was designed and fabricated. The wear measurements were made with varying time, velocity and load. The friction measurements under lubricated and non-lubricated conditions showed that the interface adhesion was dominating the wear mechanism. This was also verified by the microscopic examination of the worn polymer surfaces. The wear data were fitted to an equation developed from dimensional analysis for adhesive wear. The equation is in terms of the sliding variables and material properties, such as the elastic modulus, surface energy, thermal conductivity and specific heat.
Preoperative laryngoscopic examination in patients undergoing repeat anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

Study Background Patients who experience a recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (RLI) after undergoing an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) procedure may eventually become asymptomatic. If patients with an asymptomatic vocal cord abnormality undergo a subsequent ACDF they may be at risk for developing bilateral vocal cord paralysis (VCP). Bilateral VCP is a potentially life threatening problem, requiring emergent tracheotomy in some cases. A program of referring patients for preoperative laryngoscopic examinations (PLE) who were being considered for a revision ACDF was instituted. This study reviews the results of these examinations and determines if the information gained impacted management.
Heterogeneity of staphylococci and other bacteria isolated from six-week-old broiler chickens

Abstract In broiler operations, various health problems develop during the final 2 wk of the growing period, resulting in increased mortality and condemnation losses. At this stage, sickly birds were found to be systemically infected by various bacteria regardless of varied clinical signs, and the purpose of this study was to carry out thorough microbiological investigations on this problem. Thirty-one 6-wk-old broilers showing signs of illness were obtained from three farms, and bacterial isolations were carried out from the blood, liver, and hock joint. Bacteria were isolated from 87, 90, and 71% of the blood, liver, and hock joint samples, respectively. Mean bacterial counts in log10 of the blood (per milliliter) and liver (per gram) were 2.15 and 2.93, respectively. Among 132 bacterial isolates, major species were Staphylococcus (60%), Corynebacterium (18%), Escherichia coli (5%), and Stomatococcus (4%). Among 79 Staphylococcus isolates, 77 were coagulase-negative. Major species of staphylococci were S. lentus (19%), S. simulans (18%), S. cohnii (13%), S. gallinarum (10%), and S. captis (7%). In addition, six species of gram-positive and five species of gram-negative organisms were isolated. Thus, the apparent systemic infections were not caused by predominant pathogenic bacterial species, and adequately described as mixed infections. There were some significant relationships between isolated bacterial species and sampling sites, suggesting that certain organisms were abundant in the environment of a particular poultry house. These results indicate that systemic infections in market age broilers are caused by mixed bacterial species and suggest that they are caused by suppressed host antibacterial systems rather than pathogenic factors of microorganisms.
Abraham as a Transformational Leader

Executive Summary The World Wide Web and the rise of the global economy are rapidly changing the way business is conducted. Organizations that hope to prosper need special leaders, leaders that are more than just accomplished administrators and managers. They need leaders that have some charisma and possess the ability to inspire followers to subordinate their own interests for the good of the entire company. What organizations need, if they desire to change rapidly, are transformational leaders. One of the greatest transformational leaders of all time was, arguably, the Biblical Abraham, progenitor of three major religions. This paper demonstrates that the traits Abraham possessed, traits useful to individuals desiring to become transformational leaders, were: a vision, some charisma, confidence, courage, humility, a strong sense of justice, a willingness to be different, concern for others, and a willingness to make great sacrifices for his vision.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity of Monomeric Strontium and Barium Triphenylsiloxide Compounds: Molecular Structure and Reactivity of M(OSiPh(3))(2)(15-crown-5)THF, M = Sr (1) and Ba (2).

The reaction of Sr with Ba and 15-crown-5 and HOSiPh3 in THF in the presence of NH3, results in formation of the species M(OSiPh3)2(15-crown-5)THF, M = Sr 1 and Ba 2. These species were shown to be among the first examples of monomeric Group 2 siloxide compounds in the solid state by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Thermally induced reaction in the solid state resulted in loss of the organic supporting ligands by ∼250 °C with formation of MSi2O5, whereas in refluxing toluene, (1) and (2) underwent silyl ether elimination ((Ph3Si)2O). The reaction of (2) with Ti(O-i-Pr)4 in toluene solution at 60 °C resulted in elimination of Ph3Si−O−i-Pr.
Understanding children's activity memory: the role of outcomes.

Abstract In three experiments the effectiveness of activity outcomes as memory cues was investigated. In the first experiment, 5-year-olds participated in four activities. In two of these activities, action results were maintained during the unfolding of the activity and perceptually preserved in the activity's end product. In the other two activities, action results “disappeared” from view during the activity and were transformed within the end product. Each activity was recalled under one of four cue conditions: verbal, object, action, and reenactment. For half of the children, the end product was also present during retrieval. Memory for the two types of activities varied with cue condition and with the presence of the end product. In a second experiment, children attempted to describe how the end products could be recreated from the materials used in the activities without participating in them. Patterns of performance confirmed that memory and not inference was responsible for the effects observed in the first experiment. In a third experiment, 5- and 7-year-olds participated in activities of the two types. Within each, picture supports were provided to investigate whether the perceptual availability of action results during encoding influences memory. Results are discussed with respect to an activity memory framework and implications for science education.
On-line Virtual Real-Time E-Collaboration: An Innovative Case Study on Research Teleconferencing Management

The Internet has greatly extended the boundaries of human interaction. Virtual on-line interactions and collaborations via the World Wide Web have become very common place in recent times. It was only a matter of time before these technologies were applied to knowledge sharing and management. In this paper, we discuss the CISSE International Online E-Conference, the Worldâ??s first and only high caliber scientific conference to be completely conducted and managed online. CISSE demonstrates an innovative approach for conducting and managing an engineering research conference via the internet. CISSE provides a very convenient, time saving and user friendly platform for global scientific and research interactions.
A Stroboscopic Power Angle Recorder

An automatic stroboscopic power angle recorder developed to study directly the transient performance of synchronous machines during load disturbances is described in this paper. A portion of the machine under observation is illuminated by stroboscopic light, and its oscillations are recorded directly by a moving-film camera. The operation of the device is made automatic by connecting a suitable relay in its circuit. A typical installation on a hydroelectric generator is described.