cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Location of the descending palatine artery in relation to the Le Fort I osteotomy

Abstract Purpose: This study evaluated the positional relationship of the descending palatine artery to the Le Fort I osteotomy. Materials and Methods: Three separate examinations were performed. In the first, 30 human skulls were used, and measurements were made of the greater palatine canal and foramen in relation to maxillary landmarks pertaining to the Le Fort I osteotomy. In the second, 40 patients with normal or minimal sinus mucosal thickening were selected from a pool of patients who underwent computed tomography (CT) scanning for sinus evaluation. These patients were scanned on a Somatome Plus spiral CT scanner as part of a routine sinus protocol, with the addition of an axial image 3 mm above the nasal floor where the Le Fort I osteotomy is usually performed. The distance from the greater palatine canal to the piriform rim was measured. In the third, eight fresh cadavers were used, and the distance from the internal maxillary artery to the nasal floor was measured. Results: The internal maxillary artery enters the pterygopalatine fossa approximately 16.6 mm above the nasal floor and gives off the descending palatine artery. The descending palatine artery travels a short distance within the pterygopalatine fossa and then enters the greater palatine canal. It travels approximately 10 mm within the canal in an inferior, anterior, and slightly medial direction to exit the greater palatine foramen in the region of the second and third molars. Conclusion: Injury to the descending palatine artery during Le Fort I osteotomy can be minimized by not extending the osteotomy more than 30 mm posterior to the piriform rim in females. This distance can be extended to 35 mm in males. Pterygomaxillary separation should be made by closely adapting the cutting edge of a curved osteotome or right-angled saw to the pterygomaxillary fissure while avoiding excessive anterior angulation. Furthermore, the superior cutting edge of the osteotome or saw blade should be less than 10 mm above the nasal floor.
Diffractive dissociation and the distorted-wave Born approximation

The well-known representation of diffractive-production amplitudes as a difference between elastic amplitudes for the entrance and exit channels is investigated, and found to be generally correct in an appropriate sense, for weakly coupled processes. There is, moreover, complete equivalence at short wavelengths (as one might expect) between diffractive-production models and distorted-wave Born-approximation models. This fact is illustrated explicitly by deriving the former representation from the latter for the cases of deuteron breakup and stripping.
Extending APL: What more can a programmer ask for?

This paper explores certain underdeveloped parts of APL which ought to grow if APL is to qualify as implementation language for large and maintainable software systems. Following specific problems are discussed:* Integrating APL with other parts of information processing environment.• Operating systems.• Programs written in other languages.• Data bases.* Using independently developed functions and subsystems.• Problems with names.• Problems with space.* Execution control of object attributes.* Communications among functions.• Passing parameters.• Returning values.• Transferring control.* Information hiding modules.• Packaging related functions.• Packaging data with functions.• Local functions.
Oxidative Addition of a Si−C(sp) Bond to Ruthenium: Synthesis and Reactivity of Ru(SiMe3)(C⋮CSiMe3)(CO)(PtBu2Me)2

Me3SiC⋮CSiMe3 reacts with Ru(H)2(CO)L2 (L = PtBu2Me) to give Ru(SiMe3)(CCSiMe3)(CO)L2, characterized by solution spectroscopic and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. The molecule is square-pyramidal with an apical SiMe3 group and CO and CCSiMe3 in mutually trans basal sites.
Uncertainties in FE modeling of slope stability

Abstract Modeling uncertainty refers to the difference between the real-world phenomenon and that represented in a mathematical model. Sources contributing to the modeling uncertainty in finite element (FE) analysis of slope stability are described with emphasis on formulation and interpretation uncertainties. Quantification of modeling uncertainty is difficult and a general methodology does not exist. When a broad data base is available, the overall uncertainty associated with a particular finite element analysis approach can be estimated. Such data bases can be obtained, for example, from centrifuge experiments of subscale model slopes. The evaluation process is illustrated and the importance of modeling uncertainty in probabilistic analysis of slope stability is discussed.
FMM-Yukawa: An Adaptive Fast Multipole Method for Screened Coulomb Interactions

A Fortran program package is introduced for the rapid evaluation of the screened Coulomb interactions of N particles in three dimensions. The method utilizes an adaptive oct-tree structure, and is based on the new version of fast multipole method in which the exponential expansions are used to diagonalize the multipole-to-local translations. The program and its full description, as well as several closely related packages are also available at http://www.fastmultipole.org/. This paper is a brief review of the program and its performance.
Lower Eocene alluvial paleosols (Willwood Formation, Northwest Wyoming, U.S.A.) and their significance for paleoecology, paleoclimatology, and basin analysis

Abstract The lower Eocene Willwood Formation of northwest Wyoming is a 700 m thick accumulation of alluvial floodplain and channel mudstones and sandstones, nearly all of which show paleopedogenic modifications. Pedogenesis of Willwood sandstones is indicated by taproot and vertebrate and invertebrate bioturbation, early local cementation by calcium carbonate, and thin illuviation cutans on clastic grains. Pedogenesis in Willwood mudstones is indicated by plant bioturbation, insect and other invertebrate burrow casts and lebensspuren; free iron, aluminum, and manganese mobilization, including hydromorphic gleying; sesquioxide and calcareous glaebule formation in lower parts of the solum; presence of clay-rich and organic carbon-rich zones; and well differentiated epipedons and albic and spodic horizons. Probable A horizons are also locally well developed. Occurrence of variegated paleosol units in thick floodplain mudstone deposits and their association with thin, lenticular, and unconnected fluvial sandstones in the Willwood Formation of the central and southeast Bighorn Basin suggest that these soils formed during times of rapid sediment accumulation. The tabular geometry and lateral persistence of soil units as well as the absence of catenization indicate that Willwood floodplains were broad and essentially featureless. All Willwood paleosols were developed on alluvial parent materials and are complex in that B horizons of younger paleosols were commonly superimposed upon and mask properties of suspected A and B horizons of the next older paleosols. The soils appear to be wet varieties of the Spodosol and Entisol groups (aquods and ferrods, and aquents, respectively), though thick, superposed and less mottled red, purple, and yellow paleosols resemble some ultisols. Most Willwood paleosols resemble warm temperate to subtropical alluvial soils that form today under alternating wet and dry conditions and (or) fluctuating water tables. The up-section decrease in frequency of gley mottles, increase in numerical proportion and thickness of red versus orange coloration, and increase in abundance of calcrete glaebules indicate better drained soils and probably drier climate in late Willwood time. This drying is believed to be related to creation of rain shadows and spacing of rainfall (but not necessarily decrease in absolute rainfall) due to progressive tectonic structural elevation of the mountainous margins of the Bighorn Basin.
The global pipeline: too narrow, too wide or just right?

Background Access to a well-trained workforce is one of many factors underscoring the global health divide that separates industrialized and developing nations. This paper describes the distribution and physician output of the world's medical schools, compares regional physician to population ratios, examines population trends and points out potential mismatches between output and anticipated demographic changes. Method This paper has used multiple data sources in published and electronic form from organized medicine, international health institutions and the medical literature. In addition, a stratified, random survey of 130 medical schools was conducted to determine annual numbers of graduates. Results Tracking the number and distribution of medical schools and their student capacity is a complex task. The number of medical schools and the estimated number of graduates per population vary by region. In areas of predicted substantial population growth, the production of physicians is neither adequate to meet future needs, nor sufficient to overcome low physician–population ratios. Regions with high physician–population ratios and either expected population decline or small population gains over the next 50 years appear to have an over-capacity to train medical students. Conclusion This paper emphasizes the need for new methods of tracking the global pipeline of medical education and of establishing ways of sharing expertise. The growing interdependence of nations, accentuated by globalization of the world's economies, our shared goal of achieving health for all and the migration of physicians across borders highlight the need to understand the global capacity to educate the next generation of physicians.
Predictive values of age and the Glasgow Coma Scale in traumatic brain injury patients treated with decompressive craniectomy

Background The use of decompressive craniectomy (DC) as an aggressive therapy for traumatic brain injury (TBI) has gained renewed interest. While age and the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) are frequently correlated with outcome in TBI, their prognostic values after decompressive craniectomy are ill-defined. Methods We retrospectively reviewed data from 103 TBI patients treated with DC from 2001 to 2003. Age, preoperativeGCS,andinjuryseverityscoreswererecorded.Outcome attimeofdischargewasmeasuredwiththeGlasgowOutcome Scale (GOS). Patients were stratified into the following age groups: <35, 35–49, 50–64, and ≥65 years. Spearman’s correlation coefficients between age, GCS, and GOS were calculated for the entire population and each age group. Findings Mortality rates for each age group were 19.2%, 66.7%, 60%, and 80%, respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between age and GOS (r=−0.42, p< 0.0001) and patients <35 years had significantly better outcomes than patients ≥35 years (p<0.0001). The overall correlation between GCS and GOS did not reach significance (r=0.18, p=0.076). When stratified by age, there was a significant correlation between GCS and GOS only in patients 35–49 years (r=0.51, p=0.011). Conclusions This data suggests that in TBI patients treated with DC, age correlates with outcome while the correlation between GCS and outcome is age-dependent.
A sensitive instrument for measuring wire tension in multiwire proportional and drift chambers

Abstract We describe an instrument which is capable of detecting measuring, and displaying the resonant frequency of wires in various types of chambers, open or closed.
Bounds to second-order perturbation energies (particularly dispersion) for excited states

Upper and lower bound expressions are derived to the second-order energy relating to an unperturbed degenerate excited state in those cases where both the first-order energy and the off diagonal matrix elements in the secular equation vanish, making use of the partitioning technique, operator inequalities and inner projection approach. These expressions, which involve an arbitrary basis, are then developed to yield reasonably good bounds to van der Waals dispersion energies for systems of the type H (first excited state) — other atom b (ground state). The particular choice of basis used in the development yields the latter bounds easy to evaluate by expressing them in terms of the ground state sum rule values, S(k) of atom b. This same choice is also utilized in Lindner and Lowdin's expressions [1] to obtain bounds to systems of the type H (ground state) — other atom b (ground state) that are comparable to those found by other more elaborate semi-empirical methods.
The effects of acute exercise on colonie motility

Changes in colonic motor activity during aerobic exercise were investigated in ten regularly exercising volunteers (five males and five females) aged 27–70 years. Motility was recorded with a catheter containing three solid-state pressure transducers spaced 5 cm apart. The motility catheter was advanced 40–50 cm from the anal verge by flexible sigmoidoscope without anesthesia at least 60 min prior to testing. Manometric recordings were made from the colon during a 1-h pre-exercise rest period, 1 h of jogging at 70–80% maximum heart rate, and 1-h post-exercise rest period. The dominant frequency of contractile activity in the colon shifted from 1–4 cpm during rest, to 4–9 cpm with the onset of exercise. Activity also shifted from sporadic, isolated contractions to regular, propagated contractions in six of ten subjects, five of whom reported a history of runner's diarrhoea. The dominant frequency returned to 1–4 cpm during the post-exercise period. These changes in distal colonie motility may account for the diarrhoea which some subjects experience during intense, acute exercise.
Oesophageal Mucosal Diseases in the Elderly

Diseases of the oesophageal mucosa are particularly prevalent in the elderly population and may present with various symptoms, such as heartburn, dysphagia or chest pain. Recent technological advances, such as endoscopy, ambulatory pH monitoring and radiological imaging, have allowed for a more accurate diagnosis and assessment of disease severity. Depending on the leading presenting symptom, empirical medical therapy or stepwise diagnostic tests may be used. Elderly patients with mild reflux symptoms respond well to over-the-counter antacids, acid suppressants or prescription prokinetic drugs. Those with more severe gastrooesophageal reflux disease and Barrett’s oesophagus benefit from powerful acid suppressive therapy to relieve symptoms, heal the mucosal damage and prevent complications. Long term, cost-effective pharmacological therapies are constantly being defined.
Enhanced Infection of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in a Mouse Model of Antibody-Induced Severe Dengue Disease

Dengue virus (DENV) causes disease ranging from dengue fever (DF), a self-limited febrile illness, to the potentially lethal dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome (DHF/DSS). DHF/DSS usually occurs in patients who have acquired DENV-reactive antibodies prior to infection, either from a previous infection with a heterologous DENV serotype or from an immune mother. Hence, it has been hypothesized that subneutralizing levels of antibodies exacerbate disease, a phenomenon termed antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE). However, given the lack of suitable animal models for DENV infection, the mechanism of ADE and its contribution to pathology remain elusive. Here we demonstrate in mice that DENV-specific antibodies can sufficiently increase severity of disease so that a mostly nonlethal illness becomes a fatal disease resembling human DHF/DSS. Antibodies promote massive infection of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), resulting in increased systemic levels of virus. Thus, a subprotective humoral response may, under some circumstances, have pathological consequences.
A novel approach to estimate the wind uplift resistance of roofing systems

Abstract Roof wind design consist of three parts: determination of wind loads, evaluation of wind uplift resistance and correlating the resistance with the design load such that the resistance is higher than the load requirement. Wind uplift resistance of a system with its respective components is evaluated in laboratory testing. This paper presents a novel approach to estimate wind uplift resistance when components are substituted during field application. Wind dynamics, on a mechanically attached single-ply roofing assembly, lift the membrane and cause fluttering, introducing stresses at the attachment locations. In such assemblies, the fastener–deck interface is a critical design factor. First, by taking steel deck as a component this paper systematically characterizes the various steel decks that are commonly used in low slope application. Second component, namely the fasteners and its engagement strength with deck have been quantified for variations of its design, size and sources. Based on this component characterization, fastener pullout resistance (FPR) is identified as a verification factor for system wind resistance estimation. When variations occur in the fastener–deck interface between the proposed and the existing configurations, the present research through case studies has proved that: “ as long as the FPR of the proposed configuration is higher than the existing configuration then wind uplift ratings can be maintained ”. This is valid as long as both the configurations have all the remaining roofing components similar with comparable layout. Based on this verification, the study recommends that the testing lab should report the FPR along with the wind uplift resistance such that FPR can be used as a verification factor to accept design/field alternatives.
Research Note: Effects of Feed Trough Partitions on Productivity and Behavior of Layers

Abstract Pullets reared to 18 wk of age in floor pens were placed in 30.5 wide × 45.7-cm deep (deep) or 45.7 wide × 30.5-cm deep (shallow) layer cages with 348 cm2 floor area/bird. The feed trough was divided into four equal compartments by partitions constructed of 1.2-cm hardware cloth and extending from the bottom of the trough to the top of the cage. This allowed the hens to feed but not interfere with one another while at the feeder. Observations were made on the effects of cage shape and feed trough partitions on the productivity and behavior of the hens. Cage shape significantly (P
Performance evaluation of an auction-based job allocation model for small- and medium-sized enterprises

This paper extends the application scope of a previously developed auction-based shop floor control model to the enterprise level and evaluates its performance for the coordination and collaboration of spatially distributed Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The model uses the contract net protocol to facilitate the negotiation process among SMEs and consists of two main components: task proposal formulation and bid formulation. An agent-based simulation environment is developed in ProModel to evaluate the impact of two negotiation factors and due date slack of tasks on tardiness, earliness and absolute due date deviation of tasks. A mixed-level factorial Design of Experiments (DOE) is carried out by considering different levels of α, β and K, and the results of the simulation study are analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in Minitab. This study shows that the auction-based model is effective for the task allocation among SMEs, yet it is necessary to fine-tune the negotiation factors based on the due-date-related performance measures.
Development of Performance Models Based on Department of Transportation Pavement Management System Data

The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) is developing a network optimization system (NOS). The objective of the system is to evaluate various alternatives and to recommend the most cost-effective rehabilitation treatment to be used on the various sections of the state highway system. The NOS consists of several subsystems, including performance models, life-cycle cost analysis, and network optimization. Performance models have been developed for the rehabilitation treatments most commonly used by NDOT: overlay and mill/overlay. The performance models were developed on the basis of the pavement management system data that have been collected by NDOT for the last 15 years. The models were generated through statistical analyses that related the present serviceability index to age, traffic, environment, and structural and materials properties. First cost and annual maintenance cost figures were established to be used in the life-cycle cost analysis. The annual maintenance costs proved to be the most di...
Changing multinational corporation — nation state relationship: The case of IBM in India

During 1977, IBM was asked to withdraw from India due to its unwillingnesss to comply with the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) of 1973. However, with (1) the signing of Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. and India, (2) the easing of trade restrictions by the Government of India against foreign firms, (3) the declining value of the U.S. dollar, (4) the slump in the U.S. computer market, (5) the rapid growth in the Indian computer market, and (6) changes in other environmental factors, IBM again began actively seeking and securing new business. By the mid-1980s, IBM had secured a number of large contracts and was on the verge of re-entry into the burgeoning Indian computer market. The purpose of this study is to examine the underlying factors that influence both the divorce and reunification between host country government and the multinational corporation. The study, conducted through personal interviews with chief executives of IBM, government officials, and other knowledgeable persons, examines the social-political aspects of the FERA and its implications for multinationals in India and elsewhere in developing countries.
On the bonding in Be22

Abstract The ground 1 Σ g + state and excited 3 Π u and 1 Π u states of Be 2 2+ have been studied. The ground state has 13 vibrational levels with an appreciable lifetime with respect to unimolecular decay. The 3 Π u state also has an inner well with several vibrational levels with long lifetimes. The 1 Π u state is repulsive, but the chemical bonding causes an inflection to appear in the potential curve.
Domain structure and time-dependent properties of a crosslinked urethane elastomer†

The morphology of a chemically crosslinked urethane elastomer is correlated with its time-dependent mechanical properties. Evaluation of this amorphous elastomer by electron microscopy and small-angle x-ray scattering reveals that incompatible chain segments cluster into separate microphases having a periodicity in electron density of about 90 A. This observed domain structure is similar to that seen previously in uncrosslinked, thermoplastic urethane elastomers. As in earlier studies on such linear systems, thermal pretreatment of the crosslinked elastomer causes a time-dependent change in its room temperature modulus. However, the magnitude of this modulus change (about 20%) is generally less than observed previously with the linear systems. Another contrast with previous findings is that this time-dependent phenomenon is apparently not caused by thermally activated changes in microphase segregation. Rather, the observed time dependence in modulus is believed to be caused by molecular relaxation resulting in densification of amorphous packing within the hard-segment domains. The validity of this proposed mechanism is supported by differential scanning calorimetry experiments showing evidence of enthalpy relaxation during room-temperature aging of the elastomer. This relaxation is qualitatively similar to that observed previously during sub-T/sub g/ annealing of single-phase glassy polymers.
Solution structural characterization of cyanometmyoglobin: Resonance assignment of heme cavity residues by two-dimensional NMR

Steady-state nuclear Overhauser effects (NOE), two-dimensional (2D) nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY), and 2D spin correlation spectroscopy (COSY) have been applied to the fully paramagnetic low-spin, cyanide-ligated complex of sperm whale ferric myoglobin to assign the majority of the heme pocket side-chain proton signals and the remainder of the heme signals. It is shown that the 2D NOESY map reveals essentially all dipolar connectivities observed in ordinary 1D NOE experiments and expected on the basis of crystal coordinates, albeit often more weakly than in a diamagnetic analogue. For extremely broad ({approximately}600-Hz) and rapidly relaxing (T{sub 1} {approximately} 3 ms) signals which show no NOESY peaks, the authors demonstrate that conventional steady-state NOEs obtained under very rapid pulsing conditions still allow detection of the critical dipolar connectivities that allow unambiguous assignments. Numerous critical COSY cross peaks between strongly hyperfine-shifted peaks were resolved and assigned. In all, 95% (53 of 56 signals) of the total proton sets within {approximately}7.5 {angstrom} of the iron, the region experiencing the strongest hyperfine shifts and paramagnetic relaxation, are now unambiguously assigned. Hence it is clear that the 2D methods can be profitably applied to paramagnetic proteins. The scope and limitations of such application are discussed. Themore » resulting hyperfine shift pattern for the heme confirmed expectations based on model compounds.« less
Abnormal visual motion processing is not a cause of dyslexia.

Summary Developmental dyslexia is a reading disorder, yet deficits also manifest in the magnocellular-dominated dorsal visual system. Uncertainty about whether visual deficits are causal or consequential to reading disability encumbers accurate identification and appropriate treatment of this common learning disability. Using fMRI, we demonstrate in typical readers a relationship between reading ability and activity in area V5/MT during visual motion processing and, as expected, also found lower V5/MT activity for dyslexic children compared to age-matched controls. However, when dyslexics were matched to younger controls on reading ability, no differences emerged, suggesting that weakness in V5/MT may not be causal to dyslexia. To further test for causality, dyslexics underwent a phonological-based reading intervention. Surprisingly, V5/MT activity increased along with intervention-driven reading gains, demonstrating that activity here is mobilized through reading. Our results provide strong evidence that visual magnocellular dysfunction is not causal to dyslexia but may instead be consequential to impoverished reading. Video Abstract
Dynamic threshold models of collective action in social networks

We intend to understand how decentralized planning through local interactions can result in large-scale change from inactivity to global action cascades characteristic of social revolutions as well as innovation adoption. Building on the dynamic threshold model of threshold learning and collection action proposed in [1], this paper investigates the diffusion process in a number of canonical graph structures with heterogeneous agents. We solve the dynamic equations for star, ring, and infinite path topologies. Of special interest are the situations in which action becomes ubiquitous. When this is not the case, we formulate the radius of diffusion as the farthest reach of action from a core of instigators situated in a network of like-minded risk-averse agents. It is shown that full connectivity in a social network can sometimes hinder collective action. Based on the structure of the network and initial thresholds, the model leads the network to one of the possible equilibria of the game on the underlying graph or results in oscillation. Thus the model in this paper predicts non-monotone participation and heterogeneous outcomes, providing a more realistic model of mobilization, innovation diffusion, and opinion reversal.
Terabit-per-second network with spectral-domain modulation

We discuss an architecture and underlying technologies of terabit-per-second network with the spectral-domain modulation. The baseline architecture is TDM which exploits our techniques for imposing > 1000 pixel phase and amplitude modulation on the spectrum of a 100 fs laser pulse, using microsecond radiofrequency pulse trains, for all-optical demultiplexing to efficiently select 100 fs - 100 ps time slices. The network architectures we will initially explore is a single-hop star network that uses an active star coupler as a shared medium. WE will also explore a WDM/TDM network with a waveguide grating router as its hub.
Potentiation of barbiturate- and halothane-induced hypnosis after probenecid or sulfinpyrazone pretreatment

Abstract The uricosuric agent, probenecid, when administered prior to systemic administration of pentobarbital led to a decreased latency, to loss of righting reflex and to a potentiation of the duration of hypnosis. This potentiation was dose-related and doses of probenecid below 50mg/kg (i.p.) were without effect. Pretreatment of rats with sulfinpyrazone, another uricosuric agent, yielded similar results. Pre-treatment of animals with probenecid shortened the latency to onset of hypnosis induced by halothane (i.p.) and increased the duration of loss of righting reflex, 3-fold. Both sulfinpyrazone and probenecid, administered prior to 1.0% inhalation halothane exposure, shortened the latency to onset of hypnosis in doses as small as 10mg/kg, much less than the doses required to affect significantly pentobarbital-induced hypnosis. The results, as yet, do not indicate a plausible mechanism of action, but do expose a potentially useful drug interaction which may be of clinical use.
Human Response to α2-adrenergic Agonist Stimulation Studied in an Isolated Vascular Bed in Vivo: Biphasic Influence of Dose, Age, Gender, and Receptor Genotype

Background and Objectives Activation of α2-adrenergic receptors regulates a broad spectrum of physiologic responses, including blood pressure (centrally and peripherally), sedation, analgesia, insulin release, renal function, cognition, and behavior. The purpose of this study was to explore systematically the local vascular responses in humans triggered by a highly selective α2-adrenergic agonist (azepexole [B-HT 933]) and whether such responses are dose-dependent or influenced by age, gender, or allelic variation at the drug's receptor. Methods We evaluated dorsal hand vein vascular responses to the infusion of a wide spectrum of doses of azepexole, assessing any venodilation, as well as the maximal extent of venoconstriction (Bmax) and the dose that produced a half-maximal effect (Kd), in 50 healthy normotensive adults of both genders and 4 ethnicities. Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid from the study subjects was evaluated at polymorphisms of the α2B-adrenergic receptor gene (ADRA2B). Results We found previously unreported initial venodilation to low doses (10–100 ng/min) of azepexole, followed by progressive, intense venoconstriction to higher doses (200–100,000 ng/min) of the drug. Younger individuals (aged 30 years) with low doses of azepexole but had a greater extent of venoconstriction at higher doses of azepexole (ANOVA, P = .001). Men had less venodilation than women with low doses of azepexole but greater venoconstriction with higher doses (ANOVA, P = .036). Several common polymorphisms (>10% minor allele frequency) at ADRA2B (insertion/deletion polymorphism [Glu322–325], G−98C, C1182A, and C1776A) did not show an association with either Bmax or Kd for the drug response. The A36G (Thr12Thr) synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism displayed a nonsignificant trend (P = .073) toward higher Kd in A/G heterozygotes compared with A/A homozygotes. Conclusions Local infusion into the human dorsal hand vein of a highly selective α2-adrenergic agonist, azepexole, produces biphasic responses, with venodilation at a low dose and intense venoconstriction at a higher concentration. These responses to azepexole show prominent differences as a function of age and gender but appear not to depend on common allelic variations at the ADRA2B receptor. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 77, 388–403; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2005.02.008
Modeling of human torso time-space characteristics for respiratory effective RCS measurements with Doppler radar

The wave returning from a human torso in radar measurements is affected by the characteristics of the abdomen with respect to the thorax. While the physical properties affect the magnitude of the reflected components from each part, the motion delay and level offset result in different phases. This paper demonstrates a theoretical model for the torso time-space characteristics by formulating the baseband signal of a CW Doppler radar system as a superposition of two components, one from the thorax and the other from the abdomen. Measurements of a female subject in a supine position are used for verification. By reproducing the measured baseband signal, the respiration parameters could be identified for the subject under test.
BRED: A Simple and Powerful Tool for Constructing Mutant and Recombinant Bacteriophage Genomes

Advances in DNA sequencing technology have facilitated the determination of hundreds of complete genome sequences both for bacteria and their bacteriophages. Some of these bacteria have well-developed and facile genetic systems for constructing mutants to determine gene function, and recombineering is a particularly effective tool. However, generally applicable methods for constructing defined mutants of bacteriophages are poorly developed, in part because of the inability to use selectable markers such as drug resistance genes during viral lytic growth. Here we describe a method for simple and effective directed mutagenesis of bacteriophage genomes using Bacteriophage Recombineering of Electroporated DNA (BRED), in which a highly efficient recombineering system is utilized directly on electroporated phage DNA; no selection is required and mutants can be readily detected by PCR. We describe the use of BRED to construct unmarked gene deletions, in-frame internal deletions, base substitutions, precise gene replacements, and the addition of gene tags.
Evaluation of local models of dynamic backgrounds

Background subtraction is the first step of many video surveillance applications. What is considered background varies by application, and may include regular, systematic, or complex motions. The paper explores the use of several different local spatio-temporal models of a background, defined at each pixel in the image. We present experiments with real image data and conclude that appropriate local representations are sufficient to make background models of complicated real world motions. Empirical studies illustrate, for example, that an optical flow-based model is able to detect emergency vehicles whose motion is different from those typically observed in traffic scenes. We conclude that "different models are appropriate for different scenes", but give criteria by which one can choose which model will be best.
Analysis of the Biochemical Mechanisms for the Endocrine Actions of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23 has emerged as an endocrine regulator of phosphate and of vitamin D metabolism. It is produced in bone and, unlike other FGFs, circulates in the bloodstream to ultimately regulate phosphate handling and vitamin D production in the kidney. Presently, it is unknown which of the seven principal FGF receptors (FGFRs) transmits FGF23 biological activity. Furthermore, the molecular basis for the endocrine mode of FGF23 action is unclear. Herein, we performed surface plasmon resonance and mitogenesis experiments to comprehensively characterize receptor binding specificity. Our data demonstrate that FGF23 binds and activates the c splice isoforms of FGFR1–3, as well as FGFR4, but not the b splice isoforms of FGFR1–3. Interestingly, highly sulfated and longer glycosaminoglycan (GAG) species were capable of promoting FGF23 mitogenic activity. We also show that FGF23 induces tyrosine phosphorylation and inhibits sodium-phosphate cotransporter Npt2a mRNA expression using opossum kidney cells, a model kidney proximal tubule cell line. Removal of cell surface GAGs abolishes the effects of FGF23, and exogenous highly sulfated GAG is capable of restoring FGF23 activity, suggesting that proximal tubule cells naturally express GAGs that are permissive for FGF23 action. We propose that FGF23 signals through multiple FGFRs and that the unique endocrine actions of FGF23 involve escape from FGF23-producing cells and circulation to the kidney, where highly sulfated GAGs most likely act as cofactors for FGF23 activity. Our biochemical findings provide important insights into the molecular mechanisms by which dysregulated FGF23 signaling leads to disorders of hyper- and hypophosphatemia. (Endocrinology 146: 4647–4656, 2005)
Gender and Computer Use in an Academic Institution: Report from a Longitudinal Study

This article explores the nature of the relationships between gender, categories of computer use, and attitudes toward computers in a computer enriched environment where all students were provided with network access and laptop computers over a four-year period. The results indicate that women were less positive about computers than men, and the use level of computers by women were less frequent than for men. This change in the relationship is a throwback to the earlier days of computing when research had indicated that men were more positively disposed toward computers than women.
Mass spectrometry analysis reveals non-mutated apolipoprotein A1 lumbosacral radiculoplexus amyloidoma.

Introduction: In rare instances, amyloidosis presents as a focal, macroscopic lesion involving peripheral neural tissues (amyloidoma). In all known reported cases, peripheral nerve amyloidomas have had immunoglobulin light- chain fibril composition and occurred in the context of para- proteinemia. Methods: A 46-year-old man presented with pro- gressive insidious-onset right lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy without paraproteinemia. MRI-targeted fascicular nerve biopsy was performed on an enlarged sciatic nerve after earlier distal fibular nerve biopsy was nondiagnostic. Laser dis- sected mass spectroscopy of the discovered amyloid protein was performed after immunohistochemistry failed to identify the specific amyloid protein. Complete gene sequencing of apolipo- protein A1 (ApoA1) was performed. Results: Only wild-type ApoA1 amyloid was found in the congophilic component in the nerve. Conclusions: This case highlights the utility of MRI- guided fascicular nerve biopsy combined with laser-dissected mass spectrometric analysis. Importantly, the case expands the known causes of amyloidomas to include wild-type ApoA1. Muscle Nerve 46: 817-822, 2012
Natural modes of Bernoulli-Euler beams with symmetric cracks

Abstract An approximate Galerkin solution to the one-dimensional cracked beam theory developed by Christides and Barr for the free bending motion of beams with pairs of symmetric open cracks is suggested. The series of comparison functions considered in the Galerkin procedure consists of the mode shapes of corresponding uncracked beam. The number of terms in the expansion is determined by the covnergence of the natural frequencies and confirmed by studying the stress concentration profile near the crack. This approach allows the determination of the higher natural frequencies and mode shapes of the cracked beam. It is found that the Christides and Barr original solution was not fully converged and that cracks render the convergence of the Galerkin's procedure very slow by affecting the continuity characteristics of the solution of the boundary value problem. To validate the theoretical results, a two-dimensional finite element approach is proposed, which also allows one to determine the parameter that controls the stress concentration profile near the crack tip in the theoretical formulation without requiring the use of experimental results. Very good agreement between the theoretical and finite element results is observed.
Birmingham Revisited: Cultural Studies in a Post‐Soviet World

Cette etude explore les influences litteraires, economiques et politiques a partir desquelles les premieres etudes culturelles sont apparues en Angleterre, puis se penche sur l'impulsion donnee a ce domaine de recherche par le Birmingham Centre for Contemporary Cultural Studies (BCCCS). L'A. specule ensuite sur le futur de ce champ de reflexion dans le contexte post-Sovietique
LKB1 deficiency enhances sensitivity to energetic stress induced by erlotinib treatment in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells.

LKB1 deficiency enhances sensitivity to energetic stress induced by erlotinib treatment in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells
In Vitro Matrix Assembly Induced by Critical Assembly Concentration (CAC)

L-2 cells are an immortalized cell line derived from yolk sac parietal endoderm cells, which are responsible for the production of Reichert's membrane, a thick basement membrane produced during rat gestation. Although the L-2 cells secrete all the major components of the basal lamina, they do not assemble a robust matrix in cell culture. We hypothesized that the reason L-2 cells fail to assemble a matrix in cell culture is because the concentrations of matrix components necessary for this matrix assembly do not reach a critical association concentration (CAC) under standard cell culture conditions. To limit the diffusion of secreted molecules while maintaining a nutrient-rich environment for the cells to thrive, we developed a technique that uses a dialysis membrane to limit protein diffusion in a 2-well plate format. This technique permits L-2 cells to assemble a robust matrix in as little as 24 hr that continues to be formed for at least 72 hr. This technique may address some of the physical limitations imposed by cell culture and could be readily applied to other cell types and medium conditions.
Retrieval (sometimes) enhances learning: Performance pressure reduces the benefits of retrieval practice

Summary Academic testing has received substantial support as a useful educational activity with robust retention benefits, given that tests can promote retrieval practice. However, testing can also instantiate performance-related pressure and anxiety that may misappropriate the resources responsible for producing learning benefits. The current project examined the effects of performance pressure on retrieval practice. In two experiments, we instantiated performance pressure with either high-stakes or low-stakes quizzes, and assessed memory and comprehension of content on both quizzes and final tests. Quiz performance was equivalent under high-stakes and low-stakes conditions, demonstrating that learners adapted to high-pressure quizzes. However, final test performance was better after low-stakes versus high-stakes quizzes, and only low-stakes quizzes led to a performance advantage over a rereading control group. Participants additionally exhibited some sensitivity to the difficulty of retrieving under pressure. These data highlight the benefits of retrieval practice but indicate that they can be disrupted under pressure-driven conditions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Traumatic brain injury in operation enduring freedom/operation iraqi freedom: a primer.

In greater numbers than in prior conflicts, service members deployed as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom have an increased risk of experiencing a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The basics of TBI are discussed, with particular attention paid to blast-related events, as this is a common mechanism of injury in this population. Particular attention is focused on the pharmacologic treatment of the sequlae of TBI and common comorbid conditions. Language: en
Witchcraft and Inquisition in Early Modern Venice

In early modern Europe, ideas about nature, God, demons and occult forces were inextricably connected and much ink and blood was spilled in arguments over the characteristics and boundaries of nature and the supernatural. Seitz uses records of Inquisition witchcraft trials in Venice to uncover how individuals across society, from servants to aristocrats, understood these two fundamental categories. Others have examined this issue from the points of view of religious history, the history of science and medicine, or the history of witchcraft alone, but this work brings these sub-fields together to illuminate comprehensively the complex forces shaping early modern beliefs.
Clinical Syndromes, Personality Disorders, and Neurocognitive Differences in Male and Female Inmates

This study examined clinical syndromes, personality disorders, and neurocognitive problems in adult male (n = 523) and female inmates (n = 523) and a sample of unincarcerated adult women (n = 523). Inmates were administered the Coolidge Correctional Inventory (CCI), and the unincarcerated sample was given an identical test, the Coolidge Axis II Inventory. Although there were significant differences between the two inmate groups on a majority of the 32 CCI scales, only two scales achieved a medium effect size. The two inmate groups were found to be highly similar in a comparison of ranked personality disorder prevalence rates. Consistent with previous literature, male inmates had a significantly higher prevalence of antisocial personality disorder than female inmates (24% vs. 18%). Female inmates had double the prevalence of male inmates on the borderline and histrionic personality disorder scales. Female inmates also reported significantly more general neuropsychological dysfunction, specifically memory problems and neurosomatic symptoms, than male inmates. Female inmates also reported significantly higher levels of anxiety, depression, symptoms of schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and depersonalization than male inmates. Overall, the findings support previous research of high levels of psychological and neuropsychological problems in inmates, regardless of gender, and reinforces the need for comprehensive mental health screening of offender populations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Climate and landscape correlates of African lion (Panthera leo) demography

Although many studies have documented aspects of lion ecology, they have generally focused on single sites, leaving broader-scaled factors unanalysed. We assessed range-wide effects of eight biotic and 26 abiotic variables on lion distribution and ecology, based on data compiled from published sources on lion population ecology in 27 protected areas in Africa. Lion pride size and composition were independent of lion density; lion density and home range size were inversely related; and lion density was positively related to rainfall, soil nutrients and annual mean temperature, with some interactive effects between rainfall and soil nutrients. Lion demography was associated most strongly with rainfall, temperature and landscape features. Herbivore biomass and lion density were correlated in univariate regression analyses. However, because herbivore biomass was also related to rainfall and temperature, hierarchical partitioning (HP) allowed us to evaluate independent effects of each variable on lion demography revealing that herbivore biomass had negligible independent contributions. HP indicated that climatic parameters explained 62% of overall variance in demographic parameters, whereas landscape features explained only 32%; climatic parameters were fairly balanced between effects of temperature (34%) and rainfall (28%). Prey (herbivore) biomass is important for lion survival, but its effects appear secondary to environmental factors.