cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RANKL, osteopontin, and osteoclast homeostasis in a hyperocclusion mouse model

The biological mechanisms that maintain the position of teeth in their sockets establish a dynamic equilibrium between bone resorption and apposition. In order to reveal some of the dynamics involved in the tissue responses towards occlusal forces on periodontal ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone homeostasis, we developed the first mouse model of hyperocclusion. Swiss-Webster mice were kept in hyperocclusion for 0, 3, 6, and 9 d. Morphological and histological changes in the periodontium were assessed using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and ground sections with fluorescent detection of vital dye labels. Sections were stained for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, and the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-{kappa}B ligand (RANKL) and osteopontin (OPN) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Traumatic occlusion resulted in enamel surface abrasion, inhibition of alveolar bone apposition, significant formation of osteoclasts at 3, 6 and 9 d, and upregulation of OPN and RANKL. Data from this study suggest that both OPN and RANKL contribute to the stimulation of bone resorption in the hyperocclusive state. In addition, we propose that the inhibition of alveolar bone apposition by occlusal forces is an important mechanism for the control of occlusal height that might work in synergy with RANKL-inducedmore » bone resorption to maintain normal occlusion.« less
Effects of dietary butylated hydroxytoluene on aflatoxin B1-relevant metabolic enzymes in turkeys

Abstract We have shown previously that the extreme sensitivity of turkeys to aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) is due to a combination of efficient AFB 1 activation by cytochrome P450s (CYPs) 1A and deficient detoxification by glutathione S -transferases (GSTs). Phenolic antioxidants such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) have been shown to be chemoprotective in some animal models due, in part, to modulation of AFB 1 -relevant phase I and/or phase II activities, and we wished to determine whether BHT has a similar effect in turkeys. Ten-day-old male turkeys were maintained on diets amended with 1000 or 4000 ppm of BHT for 10 days, then sampled. Hepatic microsomal CYP 1A activity as well as conversion of AFB 1 to the putative toxic metabolite, the exo-AFB 1 -8,9-epoxide (AFBO), were significantly lower compared with control. Conversely, dietary BHT significantly increased activities of several isoforms of hepatic cytosolic GST, as well quinone oxidoreductase (QOR). Western immunoblotting confirmed that dietary BHT increased expression of homologues to rodent GST isoforms Yc1, Yc2 and Ya. There was, however, no observable BHT-related increase in GST-mediated specific conjugation with microsomally-generated AFBO. In total, our data indicates that dietary BHT modulates a variety of AFB 1 -relevant phase I and phase II enzymes, while having no measurable effect towards specific AFB 1 detoxification by GST.
Forest shadows: How much shelter in a shelterwood?

Abstract A simulation model is presented that will permit silviculturists to estimate the shade cast on any site at any time by a randomly distributed conifer stand of any stocking level. Computational requirements are modest. Simple situations may be solved in an hour or so on a programmable hand calculator; most complex situations can be handled on a desk microcomputer. Trees are modelled as a crown consisting of a cone on top of a cylinder, and the crowns may vary in density. The bole is modelled as a solid cylinder. Relative dimensions may be varied to simulate almost all regular conifer tree forms. The projected shadow area of trees is integrated for any number od independently distributed trees to obtain the relative shadow area on the ground surface. Alternatively, the model permits the determination of the number of trees of any given dimensions per unit are needed to provide a given degree of shade.
Effects of Soil Carbon Amendment on Nitrogen Availability and Plant Growth in an Experimental Tallgrass Prairie Restoration

Restoration of tallgrass prairie on former agricultural land is often impeded by failure to establish a diverse native species assemblage and by difficulties with nonprairie, exotic species. High levels of available soil nitrogen (N) on such sites may favor fast-growing exotics at the expense of more slowly growing prairie species characteristic of low-N soils. We tested whether reducing N availability through soil carbon (C) amendments could be a useful tool in facilitating successful tallgrass prairie restoration. We added 6 kg/m2 hardwood sawdust to experimental plots on an abandoned agricultural field in the Sandusky Plains of central Ohio, United States, increasing soil C by 67% in the upper 15 cm. This C amendment caused a 94% reduction in annual net N mineralization and a 27% increase in soil moisture but had no effect on total N or pH. Overall, plant mass after one growing season was reduced by 64% on amended compared with unamended soil, but this effect was less for prairie forbs (−34%) than for prairie grasses (−67%) or exotics (−62%). After the second growing season, only exotics responded significantly to the soil C amendment, with a 40% reduction in mass. The N concentration of green-leaf tissue and of senescent leaf litter was also reduced by the soil C treatment in most cases. We conclude that soil C amendment imparts several immediate benefits for tallgrass prairie restoration––notably reduced N availability, slower plant growth, and lower competition from exotic species.
The impacts of climate change on rice yield: a comparison of four model performances

Abstract Increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and other greenhouse gases are expected to modify the climate of the earth in the next 50–100 years. Mechanisms of plant response to these changes need to be incorporated in models that predict crop yield estimates to obtain an understanding of the potential consequences of such changes. This is particularly important in Asia where demographic forecasts indicate that rice supplies worldwide will need to increase by 1.6% annually to the year 2000 to match population growth estimates. The objectives of this paper are (1) to review the major hypotheses and/or experimental results regarding rice sensitivity to climate change and (2) to evaluate the suitability of existing rice models for assessing the impact of global climate change on rice production. A review of four physiologically-based rice models (RICEMOD, CERES-Rice, MACROS, RICESYS) illustrates their potential to predict rice responses to elevated CO 2 and increased temperature. RICEMOD does not respond to increases in CO 2 nor to large increases in temperature. Both MACROS and CERES (wetland rice) responses to temperature and CO 2 agree with recent experimental data. RICESYS is an ecosystem model which predicts herbivory and inter-species competition between rice and weeds but does not respond to CO 2 . Its response to increasing temperature also agrees with experimental data.
In utero development of a mediastinal teratoma: A second‐trimester event

Mediastinal teratomas have rarely been discovered during the prenatal period. When seen during the neonatal period, these tumours have caused respiratory distress or hydrops fetalis. We present the sonographic and pathological findings of a rapidly developing anterior mediastinal teratoma causing hydrops fetalis and in utero demise at 27 weeks' gestation.
Thermodynamics of Nano-Grain Boundaries

A universal, accurate and simple method is developed to describe the thermodynamic properties of disordered grain boundaries in nanocrystalline metals. Based on a free volume approach at negative pressure of the universal equation of state, the maximum free volume, bulk modulus, specific heat at constant pressure, thermal expansion coefficient, excess enthalpy, excess entropy and free energy of grain boundaries are derived from well-known thermodynamic relationships. Describing nanocrystalline metals as a bimodal material with a grain boundary component and a crystalline component, their thermodynamic properties can then be estimated by appropriate scaling of the boundary-to-volume ratio.
Fluoroketenes VII. Synthesis and reactivity of trifluoromethylfluoroketene, perfluoroacryloyl fluoride, perfluoromethacryloyl fluoride, methyl perfluoroacrylate and methyl perfluoromethacrylate

Abstract Trifluoromethylketene has been detected by trapping reactions, but has not been isolated. In the absence of a trapping agent, reactions designed to give the ketene gave its isomer, perfluoroacryloyl fluoride. Convenient syntheses are described for saturated precursors to perfluoroacryloyl fluoride, methyl perfluoroacrylate and methyl perfluoromethacrylate, and conditions are given for the dehydrofluorination of these precursors to the acrylates. Some chemistry of perfluoromethacryloyl fluoride [available from bis(trifluoromethyl)ketene through equilibration], perfluoroacryloyl fluoride and the related methyl esters are reported, particularly Michael additions, 1,2 cyclo-additions and free-radical reactions.
Confrontation as a Training Design in Complex Organizations: Attitudinal Changes in a Diversified Population of Managers

The "confrontation technique" has been used successfully in training designs in complex organizations, and this study at once reinforces and extends existing experience. Specifically, what follows ...
Switching of Mid-Infrared Light Using Plasmonic Fano-Resonant Meta-Surfaces Integrated with Graphene

We experimentally demonstrate that graphene can strongly modulate the scattered light from Fano-resonant plasmonic metasurfaces. The Modulation depth of 1000% is achieved at around 7mm as the graphene carrier concentration changes
Parallel deterministic and stochastic global minimization of functions with very many minima

The optimization of three problems with high dimensionality and many local minima are investigated under five different optimization algorithms: DIRECT, simulated annealing, Spall's SPSA algorithm, the KNITRO package, and QNSTOP, a new algorithm developed at Indiana University.
Store-choice behavior for pre-owned merchandise

The authors develop a conceptual model that incorporates the antecedents of store patronage in the context of second-order retail system. The model is tested and cross-validated with in-store survey data from two cities. The results indicate that general attitude toward store type (GAST) is an important antecedent variable in secondhand goods store choice behavior. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
The child sexual abuse accommodation syndrome

Child victims of sexual abuse face secondary trauma in the crisis of discovery. Their attempts to reconcile their private experiences with the realities of the outer world are assaulted by the disbelief, blame and rejection they experience from adults. The normal coping behavior of the child contradicts the entrenched beliefs and expectations typically held by adults, stigmatizing the child with charges of lying, manipulating or imagining from parents, courts and clinicians. Such abandonment by the very adults most crucial to the child's protection and recovery drives the child deeper into self-blame, self-hate, alienation and revictimization. In contrast, the advocacy of an empathic clinician within a supportive treatment network can provide vital credibility and endorsement for the child. Evaluation of the responses of normal children to sexual assault provides clear evidence that societal definitions of "normal" victim behavior are inappropriate and procrustean, serving adults as mythic insulators against the child's pain. Within this climate of prejudice, the sequential survival options available to the victim further alienate the child from any hope of outside credibility or acceptance. Ironically, the child's inevitable choice of the "wrong" options reinforces and perpetuates the prejudicial myths. The most typical reactions of children are classified in this paper as the child sexual abuse accommodation syndrome. The syndrome is composed of five categories, of which two define basic childhood vulnerability and three are sequentially contingent on sexual assault: (1) secrecy, (2) helplessness, (3) entrapment and accommodation, (4) delayed, unconvincing disclosure, and (5) retraction. The accommodation syndrome is proposed as a simple and logical model for use by clinicians to improve understanding and acceptance of the child's position in the complex and controversial dynamics of sexual victimization. Application of the syndrome tends to challenge entrenched myths and prejudice, providing credibility and advocacy for the child within the home, the courts, and throughout the treatment process. The paper also provides discussion of the child's coping strategies as analogs for subsequent behavioral and psychological problems, including implications for specific modalities of treatment.
FDI and growth: a varying relationship across regions and over time

This article investigates the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and economic growth for a panel of 110 countries over the period 1973 to 2002. The results show that the growth effect of FDI varies by region and over time.
Spatial attention determines the nature of nonverbal number representation

Coordinated studies of adults, infants, and nonhuman animals provide evidence for two systems of nonverbal number representation: a "parallel individuation" system that represents individual items and a "numerical magnitude" system that represents the approximate cardinal value of a group. However, there is considerable debate about the nature and functions of these systems, due largely to the fact that some studies show a dissociation between small (1-3) and large (>3) number representation, whereas others do not. Using event-related potentials, we show that it is possible to determine which system will represent the numerical value of a small number set (1-3 items) by manipulating spatial attention. Specifically, when attention can select individual objects, an early brain response (N1) scales with the cardinal value of the display, the signature of parallel individuation. In contrast, when attention cannot select individual objects or is occupied by another task, a later brain response (P2p) scales with ratio, the signature of the approximate numerical magnitude system. These results provide neural evidence that small numbers can be represented as approximate numerical magnitudes. Further, they empirically demonstrate the importance of early attentional processes to number representation by showing that the way in which attention disperses across a scene determines which numerical system will deploy in a given context.
Zinc–Histidine as Nucleation Centers for Growth of ZnS Nanocrystals

Abstract Histidine is a chelator of zinc, most notably in zinc-finger proteins (zinc coordinated by cysteine and histidine) and in hyperaccumulator plants. Sulfide incorporation into molecules containing metal–cysteinyl complexes has been shown to occur in vivo in certain yeasts, leading to enhanced metal tolerance. Demonstrated here for the first time is incorporation of sulfide into zinc–histidine, resulting in histidine–ZnS nanocrystals (NCs) having unique optical properties. Sulfide complexation occurred optimally at alkaline pH into zinc-(histidine)2 species, and UV/Vis absorption maxima were red-shifted as increasing sulfide addition occurred. Intermediate sulfide concentrations led to multiple, thermodynamically preferred NC species within a sample. Fluorescence of histidine–ZnS NCs was greater than ZnS prepared previously with cysteinyl peptides. Transmission electron microscopy and selected-area electron diffraction indicated hexagonal ZnS crystals having an average size of 4.2 nm. A photocatalytic application of histidine–ZnS NCs was shown by efficient degradation of p-nitrophenol and paraquat in the presence of UV irradiation.
Relationship between the Time Constant (KT) and Gas Trapping (GT) in a Neonatal Lung Model

Relationship between the Time Constant (K T ) and Gas Trapping (GT) in a Neonatal Lung Model
Synthesis, Characterization, and Rearrangements of Methoxymethyl Ruthenium(II) Complexes with Polypyridine Ligands

Three stereoisomeric methoxymethyl complexes, [Ru(bpy)(η2-tpy)(CO)CH2OMe]PF6 (2a−c), have been synthesized and structurally characterized. Also, the precursor complexes cis-[Ru(η3-tpy)(CO)(S)CH2OMe]PF6 (3, 4; S = MeCN, MeOH) have been synthesized and structurally characterized. Packing diagrams indicate extensive π−π stacking interactions for 2a−2c. Compounds 2b and 2c are linkage isomers, while 2a has distinct stereochemistry; 2b and 2c establish equilibrium in solution and slowly convert to 2a. Independent studies beginning with pure 2b or 2c did not establish whether one, or both, can isomerize to 2a. Nondissociative trigonal twist mechanisms, in some cases followed by linkage isomerization, can rationalize the isomerizations. Alternatively, isomerization of 2b to 2a may occur by a “conrotatory twist” pathway followed by linkage isomerization. The compounds are models for putative intermediates in electrocatalytic reductions of CO2.
Determination of Optimal Buffer Storage Capacities and Optimal Allocation in Multistage Automatic Transfer Lines

Abstract One way to improve the efficiency of automatic transfer lines is to provide intermediate storage buffers. These buffers divide the transfer line into stages, each with one or more machines. The machines in a stage are completely integrated, whereas, the stages are partially decoupled. Here, we study a problem related to buffer storage allocation. The objective is to find optimal distribution of a total storage space among the intermediate buffers. This is formulated as a dynamic programming problem and a heuristic solution is presented.
INHIBITION OF POLIOVIRUS MINUTE-PLAQUE MUTANTS AND ECHOVIRUSES BY SULFATED POLYSACCHARIDES.

SummaryDEAE-dextran was shown to increase plaque diameter of poliovirus m mutants malpha, mpi, and mepsilon, and slow Mahoney and wild-type echoviruses 5, 8, 11. and 26, but it did not affect plaque diameter of wild-type polioviruses tested. DS and agar extract slowed completion of CPE by polio-virus m mutants and echoviruses: however. wild-type polioviruses were not affected. The increase or decrease in plaque diameters of poliovirus mutants and echoviruses was dependent on increased concentrations of DEAE-dextran and DS, respectively. The effect of DEAE-dextran on e.o.p. of poliovirus mutants and echoviruses was related to their plaque development period. L-cystine did not affect plaque size of poliovirus m mutants nor wild-types of Mahoney, Theiler's Lansing, and Charbonneau; however, it increased plaque diameters of Brunhilde and Akron wild-types and echoviruses 5, 8, 11. and 26.
Correlation between retinoid inhibition of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced mammary carcinogenesis and levels of retinoic acid binding proteins

A correlation was made between the ability of retinoids to suppress N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU)-induced mammary carcinogenesis and the levels of cytosolic retinoic acid binding proteins (cRABP) in the cytosol of MNU-induced mammary tumors. Although retinyl acetate and N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-retinamide were found to be effective inhibitors of mammary carcinogenesis in intact hosts, both retinoids were significantly more active in ovariectomized rats than in intact animals. Quantitative analysis of cRABP in the tumors indicated that mammary cancers arising in animals which were ovariectomized one week after MNU administration contained significantly increased concentrations of cRABP compared to cancers appearing in intact rats. In addition, when animals bearing palpable mammary tumors were ovariectomized, the tumors which continued to grow contained significantly higher levels of cRABP than did tumors which stopped growing or regressed. These data suggest that the selective inhibition of ovarian hormone-independent mammary cancer by retinyl acetate and N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide may be mediated through an increased level of cRABP in tumor cells of ovariectomized hosts.
Mesenteric pseudoaneurysm in a 12-year-old girl with abdominal tuberculosis presenting with massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding

We report a case of a 12-year-old girl with a mesenteric pseudoaneurysm and abdominal tuberculosis presenting with massive lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage requiring multiple blood transfusions. The pseudoaneurysm was treated successfully with transarterial microcoil embolization. Pseudoaneurysms are a rare and life-threatening complication of tuberculosis and understanding the imaging characteristics and treatment options will help to guide appropriate therapy.
Synthesis, reactivity, and X-ray structural characterization of a vanadium(III) oxidation pre-catalyst, (CpPOEtCo)VCl2(DMF)

Abstract Vanadium complexes are extensively used in the chemical industry as oxidation catalysts. During the course of our investigations into vanadium oxidation catalysis, the rich reactivity of a vanadium(III) scorpionate analogue complex, (CpPOEtCo)VCl2(DMF) (1), was investigated. The octahedrally coordinated 1 was prepared by mixing vanadium(III) chloride with Na(CpPOEtCo) in DMF. The crystal structure of 1 has been determined through X-ray diffraction. Complex 1, C20H42Cl2CoNO10P3V, crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a = 38.566(9) A, b = 9.499(2) A, c = 18.149(4) A, and β = 100.485(4)° with Z = 8. Complex 1 was found to be an effective pre-catalyst for the oxidation of 3,5-di-tert-butylcatechol to 3,5-di-tert-butylquinone. The reactivity studies, oxidative catalytic ability, as well as X-ray structural characterization of (CpPOEtCo)VCl2(DMF) will be discussed. ((CpPOEtCo) = [η5-cyclopentadienyltris(diethylphosphito-κ1P) cobaltate(III)−; DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide).
U.S. psychiatrists' beliefs and wants about involuntary civil commitment grounds.

This article presents results of a national U.S. survey of psychiatrists' views about legal grounds for involuntary civil commitment. Data from 739 Respondents revealed strong support for "danger to self," "danger to others," and "grave disability" as grounds, but weak support for "illness relapse." Psychiatrists did not support commitment for addiction to drugs or alcohol nor for sexual predators. Logit regression revealed few significant associations between Respondents' choice of grounds and other variables, such as race, employment setting, experience with commitment, and political climate of the state. Respondents' support for the various commitment grounds was found to be most significantly associated with what Respondents believed the law to be in their state; Respondents tended to support the grounds they believed to be the law. The reasons for the strong association between Respondents' beliefs and wants concerning commitment grounds is explored. It is suggested that Respondents have adopted their states' commitment grounds as their preferences through a process of internalization of norms. Implications of this hypothesis are discussed. Language: en
Sex differentials in cardiovascular mortality: spatial variations in the United States.

Abstract The nature and extent of spatial variations in sex‐specific cardiovascular mortality rates and sex mortality ratios are examined at the county level for the United States. The southeastern United States has the highest mortality rates for both males and females, while the central United States has the highest sex mortality ratios. When mortality is aggregated by levels of urbanization and types of migration for the United States as a whole, the pattern of relationship varies. The lowest rates for both sexes are found in large urban in‐migration counties, while large urban out‐migration counties have the lowest sex mortality ratio. The highest rates for males are in rural out‐migration areas and for females in large urban out‐migration areas. The highest sex mortality ratio occurs in rural in‐migration counties. The decomposition of sex differentials in sex‐specific mortality indicates that the sex mortality ratio is primarily a function of female mortality.
Poisson---Nernst---Planck model for an ionic transistor based on a semiconductor membrane

In this paper we developed a Poisson---Nernst---Planck model of an ionic current flowing through a nanopore in a layered solid-state membrane made of a single highly-doped $$n$$ n -Si layer sandwiched between two thick oxide layers which we call the ionic transistor. We studied this layered membrane for a range of source-drain voltages while keeping the gate (the semiconductor membrane) voltage fixed at a certain value, which was later varied too. We find that for this ionic transistor to be effective in controling the ion fluxes through the nanopore, the gate voltage must be kept relatively large. Another solution could be to increase the surface negative charge on the membrane or to replace the outer oxide layers with the semiconductor material, such as the $$p$$ p -Si material. The developed model can be applied to study ionic filtering and separation properties of membranes of different composition and nanopore geometries.
Breadmaking factors assessed by digital imaging

A study was conducted to evaluate differences in bread crumb grain using digital image analysis. The objective of this study was to develop an image texture-based model which recognized the effect of different technological factors (formulation, mixing time and water absorption) on bread crumb grain. Co-occurrence matrix evaluations of 18 image texture features from 64*64 pixel subimages within the bread slice images produced the data based used for image texture feature analysis. Shape and size features of each slice were also included in this study.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Surface Stability of Siderite Under Acidic Atmosphere: an Atomic Force Microscopy Study

The reactivity of siderite (FeCO3) was investigated under ambient atmosphere and acidic aerosols using an atomic force microscope (AFM). Scans of freshly cleaved siderite crystals showed a relatively irregular microtopography, consisting of high-density kink-steps, compared to other isostructural carbonates (e.g. Iceland-spar calcite). Under ambient conditions siderite is inert with no spontaneous surface reconstruction as is reported for calcite. Under controlled conditions of pH and humidity, siderite was exposed to mists of HC1 and H2CO3 and the reaction was imaged with submicron resolution. The kinetics of the reaction varied with pH, humidity levels, and also as a function of the initial microtopography. Preferential growth and dissolution were observed as a function of initial topography and due to crystallographic anisotropies. Although extreme reaction conditions were excluded by certain aspects of AFM (high capillary forces, tip corrosion, charged surface), this technique has allowed real-time, in situ observations of surface reactions.
Diurnal Variations of Cloud Cover and Their Relationship to Climatological Conditions

Abstract The ISCCP-C2 cloud climatology is used to describe the three-dimensional structure of cloud diurnal variations and to investigate their relationship to local climatological conditions. The latter follows from the regression of diurnal components onto climatological state variables. Four important diurnal cloud categories are identified. The diurnal variation of maritime high-cloud fraction C′hi maximizes at 1700 local solar time (LST) and is strongest over maritime convective locations where the mean high-cloud fraction is Chi > 0.1. The diurnal variation of maritime low-cloud fraction maximizes at 0400 LST and is strong over maritime nonconvective locations where Chi < 0.1. Diurnal variations of high-cloud fraction (persistent during the night, minimum at 1100 LST) and low-cloud fraction (1300 LST maximum) are strong over all continental locations in the latitude band 40°S–40°N. In each cloud category, most of the diurnal amplitude and phase at individual locations is explained by the regression...
Regional anesthesia and acute pain management: A pharmacist's perspective

Abstract Epidural administration of opioids and local anesthetics has become the mainstay of acute pain management. However, it has been identified that a single method of pain management may not be adequate for all patients. Because regional analgesia rarely works alone, current practice in pain management is evolving to include multimodal analgesia, combining techniques such as epidural, patient-controlled analgesia, and regional blocks with adjuvant pharmacological therapies such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. As methods of pain management evolve, it becomes important for pharmacists and health care practitioners to understand the issues regarding regional anesthesia and acute pain management. The pharmacist's role in the Acute Pain Management Service (APMS) may include reviewing patient's drug therapy, optimizing drug selection, and developing policies and procedures. Pharmacists also supervise and evaluate intraspinal (epidural and intrathecal) solution preparation, stability, storage, and safety issues. The pharmacist's role in the APMS and pharmacy considerations regarding the preparation and distribution of regional anesthetic agents will be reviewed. Current standards of practice at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital will be discussed. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Posterior pharyngeal fat grafting for velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Objective: To determine if autologous fat grafting to the posterior pharynx can reduce hypernasality in patients with cleft palate and mild velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI). Design: Retrospective case series. Setting: Tertiary care center. Patients: Eleven patients with cleft palate status after palatoplasty (with or without secondary speech surgery) with nasendoscopic evidence of VPI. Interventions: Autologous fat was harvested and injected into the posterior pharynx under general anesthesia. Main Outcome Measures: Pre- and postoperative subjective, nasometry, and nasendoscopy data. Apnea-hypopnea indices (AHIs) were also assessed. Comparisons were made using Fisher's exact test, Student's t tests, and relative risk (RR) assessments. Results: An average of 13.1 mL of fat was injected (range: 5 to 22 mL). Mean follow-up was 17.5 months (range: 12 to 25 months). Statistically significant improvements in speech resonance were identified in nasometry (Zoo passage; p = .027) and subjective hypernasality a...
Line shape of magnetic excitations in singlet-ground-state systems☆

The excitation spectrum in a paramagnetic singlet doublet system is calculated using a diagrammatic expansion technique, and the theoretical predictions are compared with experiments on praseodymium. The theory gives an accurate description of the dramatic temperature dependence of the energies and lineshapes for the exciton modes.
Corrosion and stress corrosion cracking in supercritical water

Abstract Supercritical water (SCW) has attracted increasing attention since SCW boiler power plants were implemented to increase the efficiency of fossil-based power plants. The SCW reactor (SCWR) design has been selected as one of the Generation IV reactor concepts because of its higher thermal efficiency and plant simplification as compared to current light water reactors (LWRs). Reactor operating conditions call for a core coolant temperature between 280 °C and 620 °C at a pressure of 25 MPa and maximum expected neutron damage levels to any replaceable or permanent core component of 15 dpa (thermal reactor design) and 100 dpa (fast reactor design). Irradiation-induced changes in microstructure (swelling, radiation-induced segregation (RIS), hardening, phase stability) and mechanical properties (strength, thermal and irradiation-induced creep, fatigue) are also major concerns. Throughout the core, corrosion, stress corrosion cracking, and the effect of irradiation on these degradation modes are critical issues. This paper reviews the current understanding of the response of candidate materials for SCWR systems, focusing on the corrosion and stress corrosion cracking response, and highlights the design trade-offs associated with certain alloy systems. Ferritic–martensitic steels generally have the best resistance to stress corrosion cracking, but suffer from the worst oxidation. Austenitic stainless steels and Ni-base alloys have better oxidation resistance but are more susceptible to stress corrosion cracking. The promise of grain boundary engineering and surface modification in addressing corrosion and stress corrosion cracking performance is discussed.
Behavioral considerations of headstarting as a conservation strategy for endangered Caribbean rock iguanas

Headstarting animals in captivity prior to reintroduction into the wild has proven to be a valuable strategy in the conservation of critically endangered Caribbean rock iguanas (genus Cyclura). However, a major concern associated with headstarting programs is that some animals reared in a captive environment may lack the behavioral competency to survive and reproduce following release into the wild. Rock iguana headstarting programs are reviewed in terms of assessment and potential enhancement of behavioral competency both pre- and post-release. It may be possible to induce more highly developed antipredator behavior through carefully designed training programs, well-planned enclosures, and site-specific release strategies. Post-release foraging competency can likely be augmented by exposing release candidates to a wider range of natural food types prior to release and timing releases to coincide with periods of seasonal food abundance. The probability of successful settlement and social integration into the wild population may be increased through pre-release exposure to key biotic and abiotic environmental cues, spatial and temporal release strategies, and selection of appropriate release candidates. While empirical results to date suggest that Caribbean rock iguanas are prime candidates for headstart-release programs, avenues for future research are explored that could help enhance restoration success.
Algorithm development for fuzzy mathematical morphology

A general paradigm for lifting binary morphological algorithms to fuzzy algorithms is employed to construct fuzzy versions of several standard morphological operations. The lifting procedure is based upon an epistemological interpretation of both image and filter fuzzifications. Algorithms are discussed for the following image processing tasks: shape detection, edge detection, and filtering union noise.
Bimetallic cluster complexes: synthesis, structures and applications to catalysis

Abstract A brief history of the seminal discoveries in the field of bimetallic cluster complexes with their structures is presented. A review of some recent studies of palladium and platinum–ruthenium cluster complexes is concluded with a discussion of applications of these complexes in the area of homogeneous hydrogenation catalysis of alkynes.
Synthesis of 4,4′-trimethylenebis(1-benzyl-1-methylpiperidinium) diastereomers and their use as structure-directing agents in pure-silica molecular sieve syntheses

Abstract The diastereomers of 4,4′-trimethylenebis(1-methyl-1-benzylpiperidinium) are synthesized and used as organic agents in the synthesis of pure-silica molecular sieves in order to investigate further the nature of structure-direction. The diastereomer A that has two trans -1-benzyl- cis -1-methyl-4-(trimethylene)piperidinium moieties adopts a predominant conformation in solution phase at room temperature with N -benzyl groups in the equatorial positions. This molecule strongly directs the formation of the pure-silica analogue of zeolite beta. On the contrary, the diastereomer B that has two cis -1-benzyl- trans -1-methyl-4-(trimethylene)piperidinium moieties whose most stable conformer has N -benzyl groups in the axial positions appears not to direct the formation of materials with the BEA topology but rather the MTW topology. This is somewhat surprising since B is less cylindrical than A and appears more likely to form a multidimensional pore system. These results suggest that the true organic agent that structure-directs the BEA topology is the diastereomer that has N -benzyl(eq)- N -methyl(ax)-piperidinium moieties (diastereomer A). The fact that the diastereomer B is able to give the MTW topology with a rather long crystallization time suggests that cis -1-benzyl-4-(trimethylene)piperidinium manages to fit in the one-dimensional 12-membered ring pore possibly by changing conformation by piperidinium ring flipping.
Computational challenges in simulating large DNA over long times

Simulating DNA's dynamics requires a sophisticated array of algorithms appropriate for DNA's impressive spectrum of spatial and temporal levels. The authors describe computational challenges, solution approaches, and applications that their group has performed in DNA dynamics simulation.
Differential diagnosis of bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder

Background Patients with bipolar disorder spend approximately half of their lives symptomatic and the majority of that time suffering from symptoms of depression, which complicates the accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Methods Challenges in the differential diagnosis of bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder are reviewed, and the clinical utility of several screening instruments is evaluated. Results The estimated lifetime prevalence of major depressive disorder (i.e., unipolar depression) is over 3 and one-half times that of bipolar spectrum disorders. The clinical presentation of a major depressive episode in a bipolar disorder patient does not differ substantially from that of a patient with major depressive disorder (unipolar depression). Therefore, it is not surprising that without proper screening and comprehensive evaluation many patients with bipolar disorder may be misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder (unipolar depression). In general, antidepressants have demonstrated little or no efficacy for depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and treatment guidelines recommend using antidepressants only as an adjunct to mood stabilizers for patients with bipolar disorder. Thus, correct identification of bipolar disorder among patients who present with depression is critical for providing appropriate treatment and improving patient outcomes. Limitations Clinical characteristics indicative of bipolar disorder versus major depressive disorder identified in this review are based on group differences and may not apply to each individual patient. Conclusion The overview of demographic and clinical characteristics provided by this review may help medical professionals distinguish between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. Several validated, easily administered screening instruments are available and can greatly improve the recognition of bipolar disorder in patients with depression.
Experimental selection for calving ease and postnatal growth in seven cattle populations. II. Phenotypic differences.

Effects of selection for 2-yr-old heifer calving ease (reduced calving difficulty score) on phe- notypic differences between select and control lines of cattle for birth, growth, yearling hip height, and pelvic measurements were estimated. The selection objective was to decrease calving difficulty score in 2-yr-old heif- ers, while either maintaining or increasing yearling weight. The control line objective was to maintain or increase yearling weight by the same amount as the select lines and to maintain or proportionally increase birth weight. Select and control lines were formed in 4 purebred and 3 composite populations. Selection began in 1992 and select (n = 6,926) and control (n = 2,043) line calves were born from 1993 through 1999. Selec- tion was based on EBV calculated from a 4-trait BLUP with observations on 2-yr-old calving difficulty scores, birth weight, weaning weight, and postweaning gain. Calving difficulty was scored on a scale from 1 (unas- sisted) to 7 (caesarean). All birth traits in select lines differed significantly from control lines. Averaged over 7 yr, select lines calved 3.0 ± 0.5 d earlier, had 1.8 ± 0.5 d shorter gestations, were 2.99 ± 0.32 kg lighter at birth, had 5.6 ± 1.5% fewer calves assisted at birth (averaged across dam ages), and 2-yr-old heifers had 0.80 ± 0.08 lower calving difficulty score. Select lines averaged 19.8% lower 2-yr-old heifer calving assis- tance, but there was no difference in calving assistance of older cows, resulting in a highly significant inter- action of selection and dam classification. Preweaning ADG was increased 15 ± 9 g/d (1.7%) in select lines. In- creased preweaning gain offset decreased birth weights in select lines, resulting in weaning weights that did not differ (P = 0.71). Postweaning ADG (P = 0.16) and yearling weight (P = 0.41) also did not differ. Increased preweaning ADG in select lines was not maintained af- ter weaning. Select line hip heights were 0.70 ± 0.21 cm shorter when measured as yearlings. Pelvic height, width, and area of select heifers measured 25 to 74 d after yearling weights were not significantly different. The differences between select and control lines signifi- cantly changed over the course of the experiment for some traits. In the final 2 yr of the experiment, select lines had 3.9 kg lower birth weight and 1.3 cm shorter hip heights. Selection can be used effectively to reduce 2-yr-old calving difficulty and calving assistance while maintaining or increasing yearling weight.
PERIPHERAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO HIGH-ENERGY INTERACTION PROCESSES

Abstract : INTERACTION PROCESSES AT HIGH ENERGIES AND LOW MOMENTUM TRANSFERS ARE ANALYZED AND REVIEWED IN TERMS OF THE PERIPHERAL COLLISION APPROXIMATION. Experimental results are analyzed, new experiments are proposed, and practical consequences of some of the results for high-energy accelerators are discussed. (Author)
Ionization mechanism of negative ion-direct analysis in real time: A comparative study with negative ion-atmospheric pressure photoionization

The ionization mechanism of negative ion-direct analysis in real time (NI-DART) has been investigated using over 42 compounds, including fullerenes, perfluorocarbons (PFC), organic explosives, phenols, pentafluorobenzyl (PFB) derivatized phenols, anilines, and carboxylic acids, which were previously studied by negative ion-atmospheric pressure photoionization (NI-APPI). NI-DART generated ionization products similar to NI-APPI, which led to four ionization mechanisms, including electron capture (EC), dissociative EC, proton transfer, and anion attachment. These four ionization mechanisms make both NI-DART and NI-APPI capable of ionizing a wider range of compounds than negative ion-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) or negative ion-electrospray ionization (ESI). As the operation of NI-DART is much easier than that of NI-APPI and the gas-phase ion chemistry of NI-DART is more easily manipulated than that of NI-APPI, NI-DART can be therefore used to study in detail the ionization mechanism of LC/NI-APPI-MS, which would be a powerful methodology for the quantification of low-polarity compounds. Herein, one such application has been further demonstrated in the detection and identification of background ions from LC solvents and APPI dopants, including water, acetonitrile, chloroform, methylene chloride, methanol, 2-propanol, hexanes, heptane, cyclohexane, acetone, tetrahydrofuran (THF), 1,4-dioxane, toluene, and anisole. Possible reaction pathways leading to the formation of these background ions were further inferred. One of the conclusions from these experiments is that THF and 1,4-dioxane are inappropriate to be used as solvents and/or dopants for LC/NI-APPI-MS due to their high reactivity with source basic ions, leading to many reactant ions in the background.
Linguistic and cognitive prominence in anaphor resolution: topic, contrastive focus and pronouns

This paper examines the role that linguistic and cognitive prominence play in the resolution of anaphor–antecedent relationships. In two experiments, we found that pronouns are immediately sensitive to the cognitive prominence of potential antecedents when other antecedent selection cues are uninformative. In experiment 1, results suggest that despite their theoretical dissimilarities, topic and contrastive focus both serve to enhance cognitive prominence. Results from experiment 2 suggest that the contrastive prosody appropriate for focus constructions may also play an important role in enhancing cognitive prominence. Thus different types of linguistic prominence (topic, contrastive focus) appear to have the common effect of increasing the cognitive prominence of the discourse referent. For pronouns with two possible antecedents, the cognitive prominence of an antecedent aids in anaphor resolution, immediately biasing selection towards the more prominent (and ultimately preferred) antecedent.
Monocyte and Macrophage Plasticity in Tissue Repair and Regeneration

Heterogeneity and high versatility are the characteristic features of the cells of monocyte-macrophage lineage. The mononuclear phagocyte system, derived from the bone marrow progenitor cells, is primarily composed of monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. In regenerative tissues, a central role of monocyte-derived macrophages and paracrine factors secreted by these cells is indisputable. Macrophages are highly plastic cells. On the basis of environmental cues and molecular mediators, these cells differentiate to proinflammatory type I macrophage (M1) or anti-inflammatory or proreparative type II macrophage (M2) phenotypes and transdifferentiate into other cell types. Given a central role in tissue repair and regeneration, the review focuses on the heterogeneity of monocytes and macrophages with current known mechanisms of differentiation and plasticity, including microenvironmental cues and molecular mediators, such as noncoding RNAs.
Modeling changes in biomass composition during microwave-based alkali pretreatment of switchgrass

This study used two different approaches to model changes in biomass composition during microwave-based pretreatment of switchgrass: kinetic modeling using a time-dependent rate coefficient, and a Mamdani-type fuzzy inference system. In both modeling approaches, the dielectric loss tangent of the alkali reagent and pretreatment time were used as predictors for changes in amounts of lignin, cellulose, and xylan during the pretreatment. Training and testing data sets for development and validation of the models were obtained from pretreatment experiments conducted using 1-3% w/v NaOH (sodium hydroxide) and pretreatment times ranging from 5 to 20 min. The kinetic modeling approach for lignin and xylan gave comparable results for training and testing data sets, and the differences between the predictions and experimental values were within 2%. The kinetic modeling approach for cellulose was not as effective, and the differences were within 5-7%. The time-dependent rate coefficients of the kinetic models estimated from experimental data were consistent with the heterogeneity of individual biomass components. The Mamdani-type fuzzy inference was shown to be an effective approach to model the pretreatment process and yielded predictions with less than 2% deviation from the experimental values for lignin and with less than 3% deviation from the experimental values for cellulose and xylan. The entropies of the fuzzy outputs from the Mamdani-type fuzzy inference system were calculated to quantify the uncertainty associated with the predictions. Results indicate that there is no significant difference between the entropies associated with the predictions for lignin, cellulose, and xylan. It is anticipated that these models could be used in process simulations of bioethanol production from lignocellulosic materials.
Racial identity attitudes, school achievement, and academic self-efficacy among African American high school students.

Literature has postulated that African American students often choose not to succeed in school because achievement is seen as acting White. This study examined the extent to which racial identity, ...