cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Secondary transmission of a nuclear polyhedrosis virus ofNeodiprion taedae linearis [Hym.: Diprionidae] between larval colonies on loblolly pine

Transmission of a nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NtNPV) of the loblolly pine sawfly,Neodiprion taedae linearis Ross was examined in larval populations on loblolly pine. NtNPV infection of larvae in one colony resulted in transmission to other colonies in the tree. Mortality in untreated colonies was highest when the treated and untreated colonies were located in the upper canopy and when small larvae were treated with virus (42.6–61.9%). Levels of mortality from NtNPV in the untreated colonies were low (2.8–25.0%) when the treated colony was located low in the canopy. Larvae from untreated colonies in the tree were usually large at death. Mortality in untreated larval colonies collected from nearby trees was much less (0.0–27.7%) than that in the trees containing the treated colony.
Analysis of the holding current in CMOS latch-up

The holding current in CMOS latch-up with or without well and/or substrate bias has been examined. Measurements indicate that the holding current increases significantly with reverse bias and low shunting base resistance. It is shown that a previous equation for the holding current is inaccurate, and a new equation for holding current with bias is presented.
Series expansions of the density of states in SU(2) lattice gauge theory

We calculate numerically the density of states n(S) for SU(2) lattice gauge theory on L{sup 4} lattices [S is the Wilson's action and n(S) measures the relative number of ways S can be obtained]. Small volume dependences are resolved for small values of S. We compare ln(n(S)) with weak and strong coupling expansions. Intermediate order expansions show a good overlap for values of S corresponding to the crossover. We relate the convergence of these expansions to those of the average plaquette. We show that, when known logarithmic singularities are subtracted from ln(n(S)), expansions in Legendre polynomials appear to converge and could be suitable to determine the Fisher's zeros of the partition function.
On the denseness of span{xλj(1−x)1−λj} in C0([0,1])

Abstract Associated with a sequence Λ = ( λ j ) j = 0 ∞ of distinct exponents λ j ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] , we define H ( Λ ) : = span { x λ 0 ( 1 − x ) 1 − λ 0 , x λ 1 ( 1 − x ) 1 − λ 1 , … } ⊂ C ( [ 0 , 1 ] ) . Answering a question of Giuseppe Mastroianni, we show that H ( Λ ) is dense in C 0 [ 0 , 1 ] : = { f ∈ C [ 0 , 1 ] : f ( 0 ) = f ( 1 ) = 0 } in the uniform norm on [ 0 , 1 ] if and only if ∑ j = 0 ∞ ( 1 / 2 − | 1 / 2 − λ j | ) = ∞ .
Daily reports of distress: Not for women only

Abstract A context-dependence paradigm was developed for research into effects of the menstrual cycle in women. This involved the investigation of situational effects on self-reported distress in both men and women. For 35 consecutive days, 25 women and 36 men working in two occupations that varied in degree of situational stress completed Body Awareness Questionnaires (modified menstrual distress questionnaires) and daily subjective stress ratings. After controlling for contraceptive use, age range, and percentage of body fat, the following variables were selected for a multiple regression analysis as predictors of distress: (a) job stress, (b) feminine values, (c) life stress, (d) subjective stress, (e) type of job, (f) sex, (g) job experience, and (h) history of menstrual distress. Women working in the high-stress job (military police) reported significantly more distress than all the other groups. Life stress was identified as the dominant predictor of distress. In a separate analysis of daily distres...
Numerical Study of High-Temperature Jet Flow Using RANS/LES and PANS Formulations

Two multi-scale-type turbulence models are implemented in the PAB3D solver. The models are based on modifying the Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations. The first scheme is a hybrid RANS/LES model utilizing the two-equation (k(epsilon)) model with a RANS/LES transition function dependent on grid spacing and the computed turbulence length scale. The second scheme is a modified version of the Partially Averaged Navier-Stokes (PANS) model, where the unresolved kinetic energy parameter (f(sub k)) is allowed to vary as a function of grid spacing and the turbulence length scale. This parameter is estimated based on a novel two-stage procedure to efficiently estimate the level of scale resolution possible for a given flow on a given grid for Partial Averaged Navier-Stokes (PANS). It has been found that the prescribed scale resolution can play a major role in obtaining accurate flow solutions. The parameter f(sub k) varies between zero and one and equal to one in the viscous sub layer, and when the RANS turbulent viscosity becomes smaller than the LES viscosity. The formulation, usage methodology, and validation examples are presented to demonstrate the enhancement of PAB3D's time-accurate and turbulence modeling capabilities. The accurate simulations of flow and turbulent quantities will provide valuable tool for accurate jet noise predictions. Solutions from these models are compared to RANS results and experimental data for high-temperature jet flows. The current results show promise for the capability of hybrid RANS/LES and PANS in simulating such flow phenomena.
Young children's perceptions of college and saving: Potential role of Child Development Accounts

Abstract This paper explores young children's perceptions and expectations about attending college, and the potential influence of a savings program on shaping children's perceptions about paying for college. As part of a four-year study of a school-based college savings program called “I Can Save”, this paper uses qualitative evidence from interviews conducted in second and fourth grades with a diverse group of 51 children. Findings suggest that most of the children in the study have a general understanding of college and have begun a process of considering higher education. Further, children in “I Can Save” are more likely than a comparison group of children to perceive that savings is a way to help pay for college.
Progress in engineering high strain lead-free piezoelectric ceramics

Environmental concerns are strongly driving the need to replace the lead-based piezoelectric materials currently employed as multilayer actuators. The current review describes both compositional and structural engineering approaches to achieve enhanced piezoelectric properties in lead-free materials. The review of the compositional engineering approach focuses on compositional tuning of the properties and phase behavior in three promising families of lead-free perovskite ferroelectrics: the titanate, alkaline niobate and bismuth perovskites and their solid solutions. The 'structural engineering' approaches focus instead on optimization of microstructural features including grain size, grain orientation or texture, ferroelectric domain size and electrical bias field as potential paths to induce large piezoelectric properties in lead-free piezoceramics. It is suggested that a combination of both compositional and novel structural engineering approaches will be required in order to realize viable lead-free alternatives to current lead-based materials for piezoelectric actuator applications.
Actions of angiotensin II antagonists upon aldosterone production by isolated adrenal glomerulosa cells.

The biological activities of angiotensin II antagonists upon basal and angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone production were evaluated in an isolated canine glomerulosa cell preparation. The most potent competitive antagonist of angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone production was the [Sar1, Ile8]derivative of angiotensin II. However, this peptide was also a partial agonist at concentrations required to inhibit the steroidogenic effect of angiotensin II on dog adrenal cells, and never reduced aldosterone production to basal levels. On a molar basis, the [Sar1, Ala8] and [Sar1, Gly8]derivatives of angiotensin II were relatively less potent as competitive inhibitors of angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone production. However, the [Ala8] and [Gly8]- analogues did not exhibit significant agonist activity and were therefore more effective antagonists of angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone production. These results suggest that increased length of the aliphatic side chain at the C-terminus of angiotensin II ...
Utilizing transmembrane convection to enhance solute sampling and delivery by microdialysis: theory and in vitro validation

Microdialysis is a well-developed membrane-based tool relying on diffusion to sample diffusible constituents of complex media, such as biological tissue. The objective of this research is to expand the utility of microdialysis by combining transmembrane convection with diffusion to enhance solute exchange between microdialysis probes and the surrounding medium. We have developed a mathematical model to describe probe performance and performed validation experiments utilizing tracer solutes and commercially available probes with 100-kDa molecular weight cutoff membranes. Diffusive and fluid permeabilities of the probe membranes are evaluated for probes immersed in well-stirred bathing media in vitro. Transmembrane convection alters the solute extraction fraction, i.e., the fractional loss of a solute from the probe perfusate during delivery and the fractional gain by the perfusate during sampling. The extraction fraction change depends upon the magnitude and direction (inward or outward) of fluid movement across the membrane. However, for solutes with zero reflection coefficients, equality is maintained between these delivery and sampling extraction fractions. This equality is a prerequisite for probe calibration approaches that rely on analyte delivery from the perfusate. Thus, we have provided the theoretical and experimental basis for exploiting convection in a quantitative manner to enhance solute delivery and sampling in microdialysis applications.
The core of a chain complete poset with no one-way infinite fence and no tower

Like dismantling for finite posets, a perfect sequence Π = 〈P ξ :ξ≤λ〉 of a chain complete posetP represents a canonical procedure to produce a coreP λ. It has been proved that if the posetP contains no infinite antichain then this coreP λ is a retract ofP andP has the fixed point property iffP λ has this property. In this paper the condition of having no infinite antichain is replaced by a weaker one. We show that the same conclusion holds under the assumption thatP does not contain a one-way infinite fence or a tower.
The Social Demography of Internet Dating in the United States

Objective. The objective of this article is to identify the sociodemographic correlates of Internet dating net of selective processes that determine who is “at risk.” We also examine the role of computer literacy, social networks, and attitudes toward Internet dating among single Internet users. Methods. We use multivariate logistic regression to analyze 3,215 respondents from the first nationally representative U.S. survey of Internet dating. Results. Sociodemographic factors have strong effects on Internet access and single status but weak effects on use of Internet dating services once the sample is conditioned on these factors. For this “at-risk” subpopulation, computer literacy and social networks strongly influence the likelihood of Internet dating. Conclusions. Internet dating is a common mate selection strategy among the highly selective subpopulation of single Internet users and may continue to grow through social networks. Material and virtual elements of the digital divide have direct and indirect effects on Internet dating.
Adolescent substance use, sexual behavior, and metropolitan status: is "urban" a risk factor?

Abstract Purpose To determine if urban youth ("metropolitan" status) are at greater risk of engaging in risk behaviors than suburban or rural youth. Methods We analyzed data on substance use and sexual risk behaviors from the national school-based Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) conducted in 1999, an anonymous questionnaire self-administered by students in grades 9 through 12. The national survey employs a multistage cluster sample to produce a nationally representative sample of high school students. Data were analyzed using SUDAAN software to take into account the sampling model. Results In 1999, metropolitan status was not a significant determining factor for involvement in risk behaviors. Of the specific risk factors examined in this analysis, there were no significant differences between rural and suburban youth, and these two groups were combined as "nonurban." In subsequent analysis of urban vs. nonurban youth, no significant differences in risk behaviors were found on bivariate or multivariate analyses. Conclusions This analysis suggests that metropolitan status has little if any association with youth engaging in substance use and sexual risk behaviors. In addition, it appears that urban youth are engaging in these risk behaviors no more frequently than their nonurban counterparts.
Approximate single linkage cluster analysis of large data sets in high-dimensional spaces

Abstract Motivated by a real-world data set of more than 40 000 observations, we consider single linkage clustering of large data sets in high-dimensional spaces. In this particular case, the data we consider are observations in the space of one-dimensional submanifolds of Euclidean space. This data set is so large that the individual observations cannot each be inspected. A goal of the analysis is to produce a partial ordering of the data so that a useful inspection of selected observations can take place. An essential step is construction of a metric on the objects in this high-dimensional space that can be computed fairly quickly. The size of the problem makes the running time of Prim's algorithm (the fastest available algorithm for finding a minimal spanning tree of a complete graph) prohibitive. We have developed several methods which approximate the single linkage tree. We report the result of applying our approximations to the data set.
GABAergic mechanisms in regulating the activity state of substantia nigra pars reticulata neurons.

Substantia nigra reticulata is the major output structure of the basal ganglia involved in somatosensory integration and organization of movement. While previous work in vitro and in anesthetized animal preparations suggests that these neurons are autoactive and points to GABA as a primary input regulating their activity, single-unit recording coupled with iontophoresis was used in awake, unrestrained rats to further clarify the role of tonic and phasic GABA input in maintenance and fluctuations of substantia nigra reticulata neuronal activity under physiologically relevant conditions. In contrast to glutamate, which was virtually ineffective at stimulating substantia nigra reticulata neurons in awake rats, all substantia nigra reticulata neurons tested were inhibited by iontophoretic GABA and strongly excited by bicuculline, a GABA-A receptor blocker. The GABA-induced inhibition had short onset and offset latencies, a fading response pattern (a rapid decrease in rate followed by its relative restoration), and was independent of basal discharge rate. The bicuculline-induced excitation was inversely related to discharge rate and current (dose)-dependent in individual units. However, the average discharge rate during bicuculline applications at different currents increased to a similar plateau (similar to 60 impulses/s), which was about twice the mean basal rates. The excitatory effects of bicuculline were phasically inhibited or completely blocked by brief GABA applications and generally mimicked by gabazine, another selective GABA antagonist. These data as well as neuronal inhibitions induced by nipecotic acid, a selective GABA uptake inhibitor, suggest that substantia nigra reticulata neurons in awake, quietly resting conditions are under tonic, GABA-mediated inhibition. Therefore, because of inherent autoactivity and specifics of afferent inputs, substantia nigra reticulata neurons are very sensitive to phasic alterations in GABA input, which appears to be the primary factor determining fluctuations in their activity states under physiological conditions. While these cells are relatively insensitive to direct activation by glutamate, and resistant to a continuous increase in GABA input, they appear to be very sensitive to a diminished GABA input, which may release them from tonic inhibition and determine their functional hyperactivity. (c) 2006 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Outcomes after a decade of laparoscopic giant paraesophageal hernia repair.

Objective Laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia is a complex operation requiring significant laparoscopic expertise. Our objective was to compare our current approach and outcomes for laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia with our previous experience. Methods A retrospective review of patients undergoing nonemergency laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia, stratified by early versus current era (January 1997–June 2003 and July 2003–June 2008), was performed. We evaluated clinical outcomes, barium esophagogram, and quality of life. Results Laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia was performed in 662 patients (median age 70 years, range 19–92 years) with a median percentage of herniated stomach of 70% (range 30%–100%). With time, use of Collis gastroplasty decreased (86% to 53%), as did crural mesh reinforcement (17% to 12%). Current era patients were 50% more likely to have a Charlson comorbidity index score greater than 3. Thirty-day mortality was 1.7% (11/662). Mortality and complication rates were stable with time, despite increasing comorbid disease in current era. Postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life scores were available for 489 patients (30-month median follow-up), with good to excellent results in 90% (438/489). Radiographic recurrence (15.7%) was not associated with symptom recurrence. Reoperation occurred in 3.2% (21/662). Conclusions With time, we have obtained significant minimally invasive experience and refined our approach to laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia. Perioperative morbidity and mortality remain low, despite increased comorbid disease in the current era. Laparoscopic repair provided excellent patient satisfaction and symptom improvement, even with small radiographic recurrences. Reoperation rates were comparable to the best open series.
Mechanical properties of bone cements containing large doses of antibiotic powders

Abstract The addition of up to 10 g gentamicin sulfate antibiotic powder to 60 g units of Simplex-P acrylic bone cement caused gradual, proportional decreases in the bulk muchanical properties of compressive and diametral tensile strengths. Water leaching of the antibiotic from the cement did not significnatly decrease these strenghts. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) showed the antibiotic to reside in the acrylic matrix as discrete particles not usually associated with internal porosity. The surface-sensitive flexural strength of a proprietary bone cement was lowered immediately by small quantities of antibiotic powder, and continued to decrease as doses of up to 10 g/unit were admixed. Water leaching caused channeling as the antibiotic was removed from the surface, but it did not create further changes in flexural strength.
Thermal resistivity of die ectric crystals due to four-phonon processes and optical modes

The interaction rate of four-phonon processes at high temperatures is derived in terms of the Gr\"uneisen constant and its dilational derivative. The interaction arises in part from quartic anharmonicities and in part from cubic anharmonicities to second order. The four-phonon relaxation rate varies as the square of the frequency and the square of the temperature. It is compared to the three-phonon relaxation rate and found to be weaker by at least a factor 30 at 1000 K. The anharmonic interaction between two acoustic phonons and one optical phonon does not only limit the lifetime of optical phonons, but also contributes to the relaxation rate of acoustic modes in thermal conduction. It is shown that this relaxation rate is similar in magnitude and temperature dependence to the relaxation rate due to processes involving three acoustic phonons. The frequency dependence is also similar except at low frequencies, since the interaction is forbidden at lowest frequencies. Neither of the interactions considered here can quantitatively explain the observation that the thermal resistance of many dielectric crystals at high temperatures varies more rapidly than linearly with temperature.
Phase I clinical and pharmacokinetic trial of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor flavopiridol.

Abstract Purpose. Flavopiridol (NSC 649890) is a synthetic flavone possessing significant antitumor activity in preclinical models. Flavopiridol is capable of inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, presumably through its potent, specific inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases. We conducted a phase I trial and pharmacokinetic study of flavopiridol given as a 72-h continuous intravenous infusion repeated every 2 weeks. Methods. A total of 38 patients were treated at dose levels of 8, 16, 26.6, 40, 50 and 56 mg/m2/24 h. During the first infusion, plasma was sampled at 24, 48 and 72 h to determine steady-state concentrations, and peripheral blood lymphocytes were assessed by flow cytometry for evidence of apoptosis. Additional postinfusion pharmacokinetic sampling was done at the 40 and 50 mg/m2/24 h dose levels. Results. Gastrointestinal toxicity was dose limiting, with diarrhea being the predominant symptom. Symptomatic orthostatic hypotension was also frequently noted. Several patients experienced tumor-specific pain during their infusions. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was determined to be 40 mg/m2/24 h. A patient with metastatic gastric cancer at this dose level had a complete response and remained disease-free for more than 48 months after completing therapy. Plasma concentrations at 24 h into the infusion were 94% of those achieved at steady state. Steady-state plasma flavopiridol concentrations at the MTD were 416.6±98.9 µM. These concentrations are at or above those needed to see cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in vitro. The mean clearance of flavopiridol over the dose range was 11.3±3.9 l/h per m2, similar to values obtained preclinically. Elimination was biphasic. The terminal half-life at the MTD was 26.0 h. No significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters were noted between males and females. Patients taking cholestyramine to ameliorate flavopiridol-induced diarrhea had lower steady-state plasma concentrations. There was no significant change in the cell cycle parameters of peripheral blood lymphocytes analyzed by flow cytometry. Conclusions. The MTD and recommended phase II dose of flavopiridol given by this schedule is 40 mg/m2/24 h. The manageable gastroinestinal toxicity, early signs of clinical activity and lack of hematologic toxicity make further exploration in combination trials warranted.
The future in the past in Louisiana French

The past conditional is used in Louisiana French (LF) in two distinct ways that are strikingly different from Standard French (SF) norms, both of which concern the temporal conditional (i.e. the conditional as a tense, as opposed to the modal conditional). First, for many speakers the past conditional has come to be the most frequent and usual way to express the future in the past, regardless of whether the subordinate verb is logically future anterior or simple future in the past. Thus the present conditional is freed up to be used only or principally as a modal conditional. Secondly, the past conditional is not uncommonly used instead of the imparfait. Possible explanations for these two patterns are explored. These innovations do not appear to be survivals of older patterns since they are attested only in two other places which are sociolinguistically similar to Louisiana, namely Missouri French, and marginally in Maritime Acadian. Rather, these developments are in keeping with a larger tendency in LF to prefer analytic over synthetic forms. Additionally, these developments can be understood as partial convergence with English since the auxiliary (almost always /ore/) comes to function like a positional equivalent of English WOULD.
PIC lines save money and hasten discharge in the care of children with ruptured appendicitis

Abstract With the need for physicians to help control the rising cost of health care, consideration should be made, when appropriate, to shift more expensive impatient care (IPC) to the less costly home care (HC) setting. The management of ruptured appendicitis (RA) includes appendectomy and intravenous (IV) antibiotics. Although patients' gastrointestinal function often returns by postoperative day 3 to 5, 10 to 12 days of IPC may be required for completion of the IV antibiotics. A new method of IV access, appropriate for pediatric patients and HC, is the PIC line—a peripherally inserted, centrally placed, intermediate-term silastic catheter. The purpose of this study is to compare the use of short plastic cannulas (SPC) and IPC to PIC lines and HC in the management of patients with RA with respect to cost, length of hospitalization, morbidity, and patient/family acceptance. Methods: All children under the care of a single surgeon for RA underwent appendectomy and received IV antibiotics. The antibiotics were continued for a minimum of 10 days postoperatively, or until the patient was afebrile and the white blood cell count was less than 10,000/mm 3 . Group I (n = 8) had IV access via SPC and IPC care. Group II (n = 8) had a PIC line placed and was discharged to HC when intestinal function returned. The two groups were compared for: number of inpatient days (IPD), home care days (HCD), total care days (TCD), inpatient costs (IP$), home care cost (HC$), total care costs (TC$), number of IVs needed (#IV), catheter related complications, patient/family acceptance of the PIC line/HC concept, and overall morbidity. Results: The children with PIC lines (group II) were all discharged to HC by the seventh postoperative day and received an additional 5 days of antibiotics. The children on conventional inpatient therapy (group I) stayed in the hospital an additional 6 days ( P = .002). Both groups had equivalent TCD. The children with PIC lines had lower IP$ ( P = .002) and significantly lower (40%) TC$ than did IPC patients ( P = .004). The children in group I required placement of more than five IV catheters during their hospitalization. In contrast, the PIC lines were successfully placed in group II patients, and no further IV access was necessary ( P = .001). There were no complications from the PIC lines. Neither group experienced recurrent infections or required readmission. The patients' and families' acceptance of the PIC line/HC concept was unanimously favorable. Conclusion: When compared with SPC/IPC, PIC line/HC is a safe, efficacious, and significantly cost-effective method for the care of the patient with RA. As experience with PIC line/HC grows, it may become the preferred method of treatment for a variety of illnesses that currently require intermediate-length courses of IV therapy and IPC.
Effects of sleep deprivation on the periodicity of tyrosine metabolism in mice.

La privation de sommeil pendant 96 h a cree des ruptures dans la periodicite d'enzyme-tyrosine-aminotransferase du foie, a cause de l'induction. Des concentrations hepatiques de tyrosine ont augmente alors que sa presence dans le plasma fut sans effet. La privation de sommeil affecte non seulement les rhythmes quotidiens naturels, mais, si elle est prolongee, elle intensifie la reponse de «stress» generalise peut-etre au point d'affecter notablement l'effet de l'acide amide.
Measurements of heavy-ion induced fusion cross sections with the gas-filled-magnet technique

Abstract A gas-filled magnet has been used to measure excitation functions of heavy-ion induced fusion reactions. Equipped with a large x − y -position sensitive parallel-grid avalanche detector in the focal plane the setup allows for a very efficient measurement of fusion cross sections at energies above and below the Coulomb barrier.
Scanning electron microscopy of cultured cells of Aedes aegypti

Abstract Cultured cells of Aedes aegypti were fixed with glutaraldehyde and prepared for scanning electron microscopy by four procedures: air drying, lyophilization, ethanol dehydration and air drying, and ethanol dehydration and critical point drying. Comparison of the resulting electron micrographs with phase contrast photomicrographs of living cells revealed that although cultured insect cells dried by the critical point method are not completely without artifacts, this method of preservation is superior to other techniques currently used.
Range-dependent Optical Feedback Effects on the Multimode Spectrum of Laser Diodes

Abstract Weak optical feedback from diffusely-reflecting objects can dramatically affect the optical spectrum of homogeneously-broadened laser diodes operated near the lasing threshold. Switching between two or more oscillation modes can be controlled by as little as 1 nW of optical feedback power. The modulation effects on the optical spectrum and total power output depend on the phase of the returned light, and the strength of the effect has a range dependency that is useful for metrology applications. In the present work, experimental and theoretical analyses of these phenomena are presented, and a simple metrology tool for position sensing and remote surface profiling is proposed.
Management Strategy in 249 Consecutive Patients With Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Referred to a Dedicated Program

The likelihood of success of conservative management of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC) and the predictors of failure of conservative therapy are not known. We therefore evaluated the efficacy of an algorithm for the management of symptoms and predictors of failed conservative therapy in 249 consecutive symptomatic patients with obstructive HC referred to a dedicated HC program for management in general or for septal reduction therapy (SRT) in particular. There was considerable practice variation in the extent to which conservative therapy was optimized before referral for SRT. Over 3.7 ± 2.9-year follow-up, symptoms resolved with addition of or increase in dosage of a β blocker, calcium channel blocker, or disopyramide in 16%, 10%, and 10% of patients, respectively. Pacing with short atrioventricular delay controlled symptoms in 4 of 9 patients. In 63% of patients, conservative measures failed to control symptoms. Multivariate predictors of failure of conservative therapy were presence of New York Heart Association class III or IV symptoms (hazard ratio 2.0, 95% confidence interval 1.4 to 2.9, p = 0.001) and greater septal wall thickness (hazard ratio 1.06, 95% confidence interval 1.02 to 1.10, p = 0.003) at presentation. At time of presentation, 93 patients (37%) were already on optimal therapy and were referred for SRT. Of the remaining 156 patients who did not require immediate SRT, 93 (60%) were free from a recommendation for SRT at the end of the follow-up period. In conclusion, in symptomatic patients with obstructive HC, conservative therapy is successful in >1/3 of referred patients at 3.7-year follow-up, obviating SRT in these patients. Clinicians in programs offering SRT should optimize conservative therapy before recommending SRT.
Non-emergent orthopaedic injuries sustained by soldiers in operation Iraqi freedom

BACKGROUND: The majority of soldiers deployed to the theater of combat operations return safely after completion of the deployment. Many of these soldiers sustain non-emergent musculoskeletal injuries that initially are treated nonoperatively and ultimately require surgery following their combat tour. METHODS: A prospective evaluation of the orthopaedic surgery consultations and surgical procedures required by soldiers returning from a full combat deployment was performed. Demographic information (including age and sex) as well as information on the mechanism of injury, the reason for orthopaedic consultation, and the procedures performed was collected for each soldier. The overall incidence of non-emergent orthopaedic injuries was calculated, and multivariate Poisson regression analysis was utilized to determine the effect of age and sex on the type of orthopaedic injury sustained. RESULTS: There were 3787 soldiers who returned from combat operations at the end of a fifteen-month deployment without having been medically evacuated. There were 731 orthopaedic surgical consultations for the evaluation of a non-emergent musculoskeletal complaint, and 140 orthopaedic operations were performed as a result. An age of thirty years or more was an important risk factor for requiring an orthopaedic consultation (p Language: en
Alignment Theory And Practice For Diffraction Grating Rhombs

Diffraction grating rhombs, consisting of two identical gratings, are commonly used as laser beam sampling components exhibiting no angular dispersion. Three conditions must be strictly maintained if two gratings placed in series are to form a grating rhomb: the grating substrates must be parallel, the gratings must be rotated in their own planes so that the grooves are parallel, and they must have equal periods. The detailed behavior of grating rhombs is investigated by cascading the grating equation. The shift-invariant property of diffraction gratings in direction cosine space is utilized to describe "conical" (out-of-plane) diffraction behavior. A detailed grating rhomb alignment sensitivity analysis has been performed and sensitivity curves illustrate the effects of misalignments. An interferometric alignment procedure is also discussed.
Interview viz: visualization-assisted photo elicitation

This paper describes a novel variation on an established social science research method, photo elicitation. We developed two visualizations of large numbers of cameraphone images, by time and sharing partner. The result was much richer and more detailed interviews than would have been possible otherwise. This method may be appropriate for other user studies where photo diaries are useful, and can be implemented using available photo organizing applications.
Multiple sites of methyl esterification of calmodulin in intact human erythrocytes

Abstract Aspartyl and asparaginyl residues are susceptible to spontaneous chemical degradation reactions that result in the formation of isomerized and racemized aspartyl residues. At least a subset of these abnormal residues are recognized by a widely distributed protein d -aspartyl/ l -isoaspartyl methyltransferase (EC 2.1.1.77) that can participate in their conversion to normal l -aspartyl residues. We have used this methyltransferase as a probe to identify modified aspartyl and asparaginyl residues in peptides and proteins. In purified calmodulin from bovine brain, major sites of methylation were found to originate from the Asp-2 residue near the amino terminus and the Asp-78 residue in the α-helix that connects the two globular calcium-binding domains. When purified calmodulin was incubated at physiological temperature and pH in the absence of calcium, additional methylation sites were found in three of the four calcium-binding sites. In this work we have analyzed the methyl esterification of human calmodulin catalyzed by this enzyme in intact erythrocytes. On the basis of results from peptide mapping studies, Asp-2, Asp- 78 80 , and residues in calcium-binding domains III and IV appear to be methylated. Methylation of sites in the calcium-binding regions appears to reflect the low concentration of free calcium in human erythrocytes. We also found that calmodulin isolated from erythrocytes and methylated in vitro contains major methylation sites at Asp-2 and Asp- 78 80 but not in the calcium-binding sites. Comparison of the number of available methylation sites of calmodulin in intact cells and in material aged in vitro supports the hypothesis that repair processes can occur in erythrocytes.
Working the Pedagogical Borderlands: An African Critical Pedagogue Teaching Within an ESL Context

The global movement of people has increased the number of immigrant students in countries such as the United States and Canada. The number of immigrant teachers working with these students has also risen, especially those in English as a Second Language programs (ESL). Scholars have argued that the increase in immigrant teachers, and teachers of color more generally, along with pedagogies that draw from the personal and collective experiences of marginalized students is a needed corrective to the overly white, Eurocentric orientation to teaching and content found in schools. This article examines these assumptions by documenting the struggle of one Senegalese-American middle school ESL teacher who was attempting to utilize the culture of his students as a dominant part of his pedagogy. The findings indicate that this teacher found himself in a school context where his political desires for immigrant students were modified by institutional structures and disenabling discourses about immigrants. What he enacted was a borderland pedagogy that had elements of the culturally relevant pedagogy that he sought and the assimilationist pedagogy that was pervasive within the school. The implications suggest that placing responsibility on these immigrant teachers to challenge assimilationist and marginalizing tendencies in the schools may end up blaming these practitioners for influential factors that reside largely outside their control. Consequently, to meet the needs of those marginalized by society requires work with and on the possibilities and limits embedded in these borderland spaces of schools, teacher desires, and communities.
OXIDATIVE STRESS IN ARTERIOGENIC ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION: PROPHYLACTIC ROLE OF ANTIOXIDANTS

ABSTRACTPurpose:: We searched for markers of oxidative stress in cavernous ischemia and examined the effect of long-term antioxidant intake on arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) in the rabbit.Materials and Methods:: Antioxidant activity of known antioxidant beverages, such as pomegranate juice (PJ), red wine, blueberry juice, cranberry juice, orange juice and green tea, was examined spectrophotometrically. PJ demonstrated the highest free radical scavenging capacity. The effect of long-term PJ intake on intracavernous blood flow and penile erection was then examined in the rabbit model. Erectile tissues were processed to assess oxidative stress and smooth muscle relaxation, immunohistochemical staining of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and histomorphometry.Results:: On spectrophotometric analysis PJ showed the highest capacity to decrease low density lipoprotein oxidation and inhibit cellular oxidative stress in macrophages. The rabbit model of arteriogenic ED demonstrated decreased intracavernous blood ...
Horizontal rectus tenotomy in patients with congenital nystagmus: results in 10 adults

Abstract Objective We wished to determine the effectiveness of horizontal rectus tenotomy in changing the nystagmus of patients with congenital nystagmus and, secondarily, how their visual function changed. Design This was a prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Participants Ten adult patients with varied associated sensory defects and oculographic subtypes of congenital nystagmus (including asymmetric periodic or aperiodic alternating nystagmus) and no nystagmus treatment options. Methods By using standard surgical techniques, simple tenotomy of all four horizontal recti with reattachment at the original insertion was accomplished. Search-coil eye movement recordings and clinical examinations were performed before and 1, 6, 24, and 52 weeks after surgery. Main outcome measures The primary outcome measure was the expanded nystagmus acuity function, obtained in “masked” fashion directly from ocular motility recordings. Secondary outcomes included breadth of null zones, preoperative and postoperative masked measures of visual acuity (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS] chart), and the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25). Results At 1 year after tenotomy and under binocular conditions, 9 of 10 patients had persistent, significant postoperative increases in the expanded nystagmus acuity function of their fixing (preferred) eye; 1 remained high, and 1 was not tested under the same conditions. Average foveation times increased in all 9 fixing (preferred) eyes. Binocular visual acuity measured with the ETDRS chart increased in 5 patients and was unaffected in five, whereas the NEI-VFQ-25 showed an improvement in vision-specific mental health in 9 patients. There were no adverse events. Tenotomy also radically changed the periodicity of one patient's asymmetric periodic or aperiodic alternating nystagmus. Conclusions In 9 of 10 adult patients with clinical and oculographic variations in their congenital nystagmus, tenotomy resulted in significant improvements in a nystagmus measure and subjective visual functions.
On the Eigenvalues of Sums of Hermitian Matrices

It is the purpose of this paper to establish a new family of inequalities linking the eigenvalues of the Hermitian linear transformations A, B, and C = A + B. We shall show that the inequalities of Amir-Moez [1] may be deduced from the inequalities in our family, and in fact we shall show that our inequalities are always at least as sharp as and often are sharper than those of Amir-MoCz. Furthermore we shall see that our inequalities offer a very natural and simple generalization of the WielandtLidskii inequalities [4], and contain also the inequalities of Weyl [3].
An alternate light source to detect semen.

The Wood's lamp (WL) has been used in sexual assault evaluations. Recent data have shown that semen does not fluoresce with a WL and that physicians are unable to differentiate semen from other common medicaments using a WL. Objectives: To determine whether physicians could differentiate semen from other products using an alternate light source (ALS), and to investigate whether a brief training period with the ALS would enhance physicians' ability to differentiate between semen and other commonly used products. Methods: An ALS, Bluemaxx BM500, was found to cause semen to fluoresce. Physicians were first asked to use this ALS to identify semen and then to distinguish between a semen sample and other products. Physicians then received a training class on the use of the ALS and were then asked to differentiate semen from other products. Results: All physicians identified the semen as fluorescing and 25% successfully differentiated the semen from the other products using the ALS. Products most commonly mistaken for semen were a hand cream, Castille soap, and bacitracin. After the training session, 83% of the physicians successfully differentiated the semen from other products. The ALS, while not specific for semen identification, was 100% sensitive for it. Conclusions: Physicians instructed in the use of an alternate light source (BM 500) are able to identify semen as fluorescing and can differentiate semen (after a training session) from other commonly used products.
Precipitation Shifts over Western North America as a Result of Declining Arctic Sea Ice Cover: The Coupled System Response

Abstract Changes in Arctic sea ice cover have the potential to impact midlatitude climate. A previous sensitivity study utilizing the National Center for Atmospheric Research’s (NCAR) atmospheric general circulation model [AGCM; Community Climate Model, version 3 (CCM3)] to explore climate sensitivity to declining Arctic sea ice cover suggested that, as Arctic sea ice cover is reduced, precipitation patterns over western North America will shift toward dryer conditions in southwestern North America and wetter conditions in northwestern North America. Here, three complementary lines of research validate and explore the robustness of this possible climate change impact: 1) repetition of the previous sensitivity study (specified constant Arctic sea ice cover and atmospheric CO2) with an updated version of the NCAR AGCM [third Community Atmosphere Model (CAM3)], 2) investigation of the climate response to dynamically reduced Arctic sea ice cover (driven by a quadrupling of atmospheric CO2) in the coupled NCAR...
Personality factors as predictors of high ability dropouts

Abstract The High School Personality Questionnaire (HSPQ) protocols of 125 high ability male high school dropouts and a similar number of persisters matched for sex, intelligence, grade, and neighborhood were treated, by means of discriminate analysis, to develop a simple equation permitting prediction of school persistence.
Rotational stiffness of football shoes influences talus motion during external rotation of the foot.

Shoe-surface interface characteristics have been implicated in the high incidence of ankle injuries suffered by athletes. Yet, the differences in rotational stiffness among shoes may also influence injury risk. It was hypothesized that shoes with different rotational stiffness will generate different patterns of ankle ligament strain. Four football shoe designs were tested and compared in terms of rotational stiffness. Twelve (six pairs) male cadaveric lower extremity limbs were externally rotated 30 deg using two selected football shoe designs, i.e., a flexible shoe and a rigid shoe. Motion capture was performed to track the movement of the talus with a reflective marker array screwed into the bone. A computational ankle model was utilized to input talus motions for the estimation of ankle ligament strains. At 30 deg of rotation, the rigid shoe generated higher ankle joint torque at 46.2 ± 9.3 Nm than the flexible shoe at 35.4 ± 5.7 Nm. While talus rotation was greater in the rigid shoe (15.9 ± 1.6 deg versus 12.1 ± 1.0 deg), the flexible shoe generated more talus eversion (5.6 ± 1.5 deg versus 1.2± 0.8 deg). While these talus motions resulted in the same level of anterior deltoid ligament strain (approxiamtely 5%) between shoes, there was a significant increase of anterior tibiofibular ligament strain (4.5± 0.4% versus 2.3 ± 0.3%) for the flexible versus more rigid shoe design. The flexible shoe may provide less restraint to the subtalar and transverse tarsal joints, resulting in more eversion but less axial rotation of the talus during foot∕shoe rotation. The increase of strain in the anterior tibiofibular ligament may have been largely due to the increased level of talus eversion documented for the flexible shoe. There may be a direct correlation of ankle joint torque with axial talus rotation, and an inverse relationship between torque and talus eversion. The study may provide some insight into relationships between shoe design and ankle ligament strain patterns. In future studies, these data may be useful in characterizing shoe design parameters and balancing potential ankle injury risks with player performance.
Nature of the α-12C potential at low energy using an inverse scattering method

Abstract Hooshyar and Razavy's inverse scattering method at a fixed energy has been modified to treat Coulomb and non-monotonic potentials. The method is then applied to determine the nature of the α- 12 C potential at low energies from the available phase shifts. The potential is found to be a shallow one which might also have a short range repulsion.