cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bone mineral density among cirrhotic patients awaiting liver transplantation.

Osteoporosis is an important and common complication in patients with chronic liver disease. The goal of this study was to determine the bone mineral density (BMD) in different subgroups among pretransplant cirrhotic patients. BMD of the lumbar vertebrae (L) and femoral neck (F) were obtained in 104 consecutive cirrhotic patients. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to compare the BMD among various groups. The mean BMD in males (n = 54) and females (n = 50) at L were 1.28 ± 0.25 g/cm2 and 1.13 ± 0.20 g/cm2, respectively (P = .001); at F they were 1.03 ± 0.14 and 0.91 ± 0.17, respectively (P < .0001). Among males, BMD at L in Child-Turcotte-Pugh class B and C were 1.40 ± 0.21 and 1.13 ± 0.20, respectively (P = .001); at F they were 1.11 ± 0.10 and 0.93 ± 0.13, respectively (P < .0001). Among females, BMD at L in Child-Turcotte-Pugh class B and C were 1.27 ± 0.18 and 1.05 ± 0.16, respectively (P = .0003); at F they were 1.02 ± 0.16 and 0.83 ± 0.12, respectively (P = .001). The BMD in premenopausal females (n = 15) and postmenopausal females (n = 35) at L were 1.20 ± 0.19 and 1.11 ± 0.20, respectively (P = .15); at F they were 0.97 ± 0.17 and 0.88 ± 0.16, respectively (P = .12). The BMD in postmenopausal females on hormone replacement therapy (n = 19) and on no hormone replacement therapy (n = 16) at L were 1.07 ± 0.17 and 1.14 ± 0.23, respectively (P = .29); at F they were 0.85 ± 0.15 and 0.91 ± 0.18, respectively (P = .33). The BMD values between etiologic groups were not significantly different. The overall prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis were 34.6% and 11.5%, respectively, being significantly higher in females than in males. In conclusion, significant difference in BMD values exists between males and females, as well as between Child-Turcotte-Pugh class B and C patients with cirrhosis. In addition, there is no significant influence of menopausal status, hormone replacement therapy, and etiology of cirrhosis on BMD. (Liver Transpl 2004;10:648–653.)
Exposure to Child Anxiety: Theory, Research, and Practice

This article provides a brief overview of cognitive-behavioral theory and its application in understanding and treating anxiety in youths. Research investigations have examined the outcomes of cognitive-behavioral intervention, treatment generalizability, diagnostic issues, cognitive processing, social competence, and familial and parental factors. Issues surrounding the transportability of empirically evaluated treatment to community-based clinics are considered.
In vitro rooting of Vitis species native to Texas and New Mexico.

Abstract Cuttings of native grape vines were taken from Crosby County, TX, San Migel County, NM and Otero County, NM. These cuttings were cultivated in a greenhouse for a year and then propagated in vitro to evaluate the difference in rooting ability between the species. The different species evaluated were Vitis arizonica, V. treleasei and an interspecific hybrid involving V. treleasei with one or more of the following: V. acerifolia, V. arizonica, V. doaniana. Vitis vinifera ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ and ‘Chardonnay’ were used as controls for comparison with the native species. Single-node cuttings were placed on 1/2 strength Murashige and Skoog medium and observed for 4 weeks. Cuttings from all genotypes rooted well (>73% of cuttings rooted), with the exception of one selection of V. treleasei (36%). Cuttings from a more recent collection were also propagated in vitro directly after collection from the field, although contamination rates were much higher.
Becoming Bilingual During Early Childhood

Spanish/English bilingual and monolingual English children, ages 36-50 months, were recorded during interactions with their mothers. An analysis of the recorded language was performed utilizing selected morphological and syntactic features. An analysis of home language use was also performed for bilingual children. Results indicate: (1) a definite bilingual proficiency character with "weighted" proficiency in English; (2) no significant difference on English measures between bilingual and monolingual children; (3) a differential language use pattern for Spanish and English by bilingual children in the home. These results provide new insights into the bilingual acquisition phenomenon in early childhood.
Deposition and structural characterization of ZrO2 and yttria-stabilized ZrO2 films by chemical vapor deposition

Abstract Zirconium oxide films were deposited by metal-organic chemical vapour deposition using zirconium acetylacetonate as the source material. Use of water vapor together with oxygen as secondary reagents ensured the deposition of carbon-free, pure zirconium oxide films. A study was carried out to investigate the phase structure of films grown under different deposition conditions. Metastable tetragonal zirconium oxide was a dominant phase when the deposition temperature was low or the film contained large amounts of carbon impurity. Simultaneous decomposition of zirconium acetylacetonate and yttrium dipivaloylmethane with water vapor and oxygen was used to obtain highly texturized yttria stabilized zirconium oxide films at relatively low deposition temperatures. The dominant phase was changed from tetragonal to cubic as the amount of yttrium within the films increased. A zirconium oxide film grown at 620 °C, containing about 6 at.% yttrium, was highly texturized, and consisted of a cubic phase with a = 0.5122nm
Sources and Information on Transfer Associate Degrees.

This chapter provides an annotated bibliography of articles about the effects of transfer associate degrees and related statewide transfer and articulation policies. It also provides links to transfer degree legislation in several states.
Study of Interfacial Sharpness and Growth in (GaAs) M (AlAs) N Superlatihces

X-ray diffraction, inelastic light scattering, photoluminescence and photoluminescence excitation spectroscopies have been employed to study the effects of growth conditions on the interfacial sharpness of GaAs/AlAs superlattices. In addition to describing which changes in the MBE growth procedures result in the sharpest interfaces, this study addresses the relative strengths and weaknesses of the experimental probes employed in the examination of interfacial irregularities.
Infectious Complications of Dental and Periodontal Diseases in the Elderly Population

Retention of teeth into advanced age makes caries and periodontitis lifelong concerns. Dental caries occurs when acidic metabolites of oral streptococci dissolve enamel and dentin. Dissolution progresses to cavitation and, if untreated, to bacterial invasion of dental pulp, whereby oral bacteria access the bloodstream. Oral organisms have been linked to infections of the endocardium, meninges, mediastinum, vertebrae, hepatobiliary system, and prosthetic joints. Periodontitis is a pathogen-specific, lytic inflammatory reaction to dental plaque that degrades the tooth attachment. Periodontal disease is more severe and less readily controlled in people with diabetes; impaired glycemic control may exacerbate host response. Aspiration of oropharyngeal (including periodontal) pathogens is the dominant cause of nursing home-acquired pneumonia; factors reflecting poor oral health strongly correlate with increased risk of developing aspiration pneumonia. Bloodborne periodontopathic organisms may play a role in atherosclerosis. Daily oral hygiene practice and receipt of regular dental care are cost-effective means for minimizing morbidity of oral infections and their nonoral sequelae.
Trimerization of tert-Butylacetylene to 1,3,6-Tri(tert-butyl)fulvene Catalyzed by Titanium Aryloxide Compounds

The [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of alkyne segments to produce the arene nucleus is one of the most ubiquitous and studied reactions in organo-transition-metal chemistry.1,2 In contrast there are only scattered reports of the stoichiometric conversion of three alkyne units into the fulvene nucleus via a formal [2+2+1] cycloaddition.3,4 In this paper, we report on our initial synthetic and mechanistic studies of a titanium aryloxide catalyst system which selectively converts tert-butylacetylene into the corresponding fulvene.
Bacteria in gel probes : comparison of the activity of immobilized sulfate-reducing bacteria with in situ sulfate reduction in a wetland sediment

A novel method was used to examine the microbial ecology of iron-rich wetland sediments receiving neutral-pH coal mine drainage. Gel probes inserted into the sediments allowed analysis of the distribution and activity of bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR). A mixed population of sulfate-reducing bacteria enriched from anoxic wetland sediments was immobilized in low temperature-gelling agarose held in grooved rods or probes. The probes were inserted vertically into sediments and were allowed to incubate in situ for 48 h. After their retrieval, the gels were sectioned and analyzed for residual BSR activity and were compared to in situ BSR rates and chemical porewater profiles. The depth distribution of residual BSR activity in the immobilized cell gel probes differed significantly from the BSR measured in situ. Approximately 51% of the total integrated residual sulfate reduction activity measured in the gel probes occurred between 0 and 7 cm of the upper 20 cm of sediment. In contrast, ca. 99% of the integrated in situ BSR occurred between 7- and 20-cm depth, and only 1% of the total integrated rate occurred between 0- and 7-cm depth. Lactate-enriched bacteria immobilized in the gel may have been atypical of the majority of sulfate-reducing bacteria in the sediment. Agarose-immobilized sulfate-reducing bacteria might also be able to proliferate in the otherwise inhospitable zone of iron reduction, where sulfate and labile carbon compounds for which they are usually outcompeted can diffuse freely into the gel matrix. Gel probes containing particulate iron monosulfide (FeS) indicated that FeS remained stable in sediments at depths greater than 2 to 3 cm below the sediment-water interface, consistent with the shallow penetration of oxygen into surface sediments.
Oral chemotherapy in the treatment of hormone-refractory prostate cancer

Oral chemotherapy has become a major component of the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. The recognition that prostate cancer grows very slowly and must be treated continuously with active agents has led to the development of several therapeutic regimens. These regimens employ oral agents such as estramustine, cyclophosphamide, and etoposide, as they can be taken on a daily basis at home by the patients. These regimens have demonstrated activity in patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer; declines in both prostate specific antigen and soft tissue lesions have been demonstrated.
Dual constant composition method and its application to studies of phase transformation and crystallization of mixed phases

Abstract In a novel approach, a dual constant composition (DCC) technique has been developed for the investigation of concurrent dissolution and growth processes such as crystalline phase transformation, as well as growth of mixed crystalline phases. DCC utilizes two potentiostats and electrode sets to control simultaneous reactions in the same medium. The kinetics of concurrent dissolution or growth of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) and the growth of octacalcium phosphate (OCP) were studied.
Effect of rootstocks on greenhouse rose flower yield and leaf nutrient levels 1

Abstract ‘Carina’ rose was grown on seven different rootstock clones. These, combinations were tested for effect on flower production and mineral content of the leaves when grown in fumigated ground beds in an evaporatively cooled plastic greenhouse. Plants growing on R. odorata ISU 5710–2 produced the highest flower yields followed by R. fortuniana and R. manetti while R. multiflora ISU 62–5 produced the lowest number of blooms. Rootstocks caused large differences in the levels of some minerals in the leaves. R. fortuniana caused a Mn accumulation that was five times the quantity developed by R. odorata but this did not seem to be related to flower production. However, R. odorata was a superior accumulator of K and under conditions of relatively low supply R. fortuniana and R. odorata were good accumulators of N and K. These factors were related to flower yield.
Collision-Induced Signal Enhancement: A Method To Increase Product Ion Intensities in MS/MS and MSn Experiments

Collision-induced signal enhancement (CISE), a new technique to enhance the MSn capabilities of the quadrupole ion trap, is demonstrated. CISE is based on the chemistry, i.e., the dissociation pathways, of the analyte examined. Polysaccharides up to hexamers are used to demonstrate the capabilities of CISE to enhance signal in two distinct functional modes. Mode 1 CISE is designed to enhance the signal of an ion desired for MSn analysis. Mode 2 CISE is designed to enhance structurally significant product ions in an MS/MS spectrum. Two different approaches can be utilized to effect the two functional modes of CISE. Both approaches use conventional resonant excitation techniques to effect dissociation, which is performed nonanalytically, i.e., without isolation of the ions to be dissociated. The two approaches are (1) single-frequency resonance excitation, and (2) broad-band wave form resonant excitation. Experimental results for Mode 1 CISE analysis demonstrate up to a 17.3-fold signal increase for the sin...
Quantification of type II procollagen splice forms using Alternative Transcript-qPCR (AT-qPCR)

During skeletal development, the onset of chondrogenic differentiation is marked by expression of the α1(II) procollagen (Col2a1) gene. Exon 2 of Col2a1 codes for a cysteine-rich von Willebrand factor C-like domain. Chondroprogenitors express the exon 2-containing IIA and IID splice forms by utilizing adjacent 5' splice sites separated by 3 base pairs. There is a shift to expression of the shorter, exon 2-lacking IIB splice form with further differentiation. Alternative splicing analysis of Col2a1 splice forms has often relied upon semi-quantitative PCR, using a single set of PCR primers to amplify multiple splice forms. We show that this widely used method is inaccurate due to mismatched amplification efficiency of different-sized PCR products. We have developed the TaqMan®-based AT-qPCR (Alternative Transcript-qPCR) assay to more accurately quantify alternatively spliced mRNA, and demonstrate the measurement of Col2a1 splice form expression in differentiating ATDC5 cells in vitro, and in wild type mouse embryonic and postnatal cartilage in vivo. The AT-qPCR assay is based on the use of a multiple-amplicon standard (MAS) plasmid, containing a chemically synthesized cluster of splice site-spanning PCR amplicons, to quantify alternative splice forms by standard curve-based qPCR. The MAS plasmid designed for Col2a1 also contained an 18S rRNA amplicon for sample normalization, and an amplicon corresponding to a region spanning exon 52-53 to measure total Col2a1 mRNA. In mouse E12.5 to P70 cartilages, we observed the expected switch between the IIA and IIB splice forms; no IID or IIC splice products were observed. However, in the ATDC5 cultures, predominant expression of the IIA and IID splice forms was found at all times in culture. Additionally, we observed that the sum of the IIA, IIB and IID splice forms comprises only a small fraction of Col2a1 transcripts containing the constitutive exon 52-53 junction. We conclude from our results that the majority of ATDC5 cells in the assay described in this study remained as chondroprogenitors during culture in standard differentiation conditions, and that additional Col2a1 transcripts may be present. The validity of this novel AT-qPCR assay was confirmed by demonstrating the expected Col2a1 isoform expression patterns in vivo in developing mouse cartilage. The ability to measure true levels of procollagen type II splice forms will provide better monitoring of chondrocyte differentiation in other model systems. In addition, the AT-qPCR assay described here could be applied to any gene of interest to detect and quantify known and predicted alternative splice forms and can be scaled up for high throughput assays.
Neo-transcendentalism in the New Left Counter-culture: A Vision of the Future Looking Back

The student movement of the 1960s has been characterized as the dawn of a new national consciousness and a new counter-culture, ‘the passionate revolution of creative intelligence’, and ‘the saving vision our endangered civilization required’. The New Left spokesmen for the movement have proclaimed themselves the vanguard of a unique cultural and political rebellion against what they consider the evils of capitalist-pluralist America. They present their arguments in Hegelian terms as a new and profound synthesis of the progressive elements embodied in America's political and intellectual history. Yet a more probing analysis of American history indicates that the values inherent in the New Left counter-culture are not very new at all. In fact, apart from their rhetoric, the New Left cultural and political attitudes bear a striking similarity to certain nineteenth-century Utopian outlooks. The most direct antecedent of the modern counter-culture appears to be the New England transcendental- ist movement which emerged in the 1840s. This relationship between a New Left counter-culture, credited by its supporters with messianic characteristics for national salvation, and a nineteenth-century utopianism that made no significant impact on the unfolding of history raises many questions about the credibility and future of the counter-culture.
Seasonal Movement of Brown Trout in the Clinch River, Tennessee

Abstract We used radiotelemetry to monitor the seasonal movements of trophy-size brown trout Salmo trutta in the Clinch River below Norris Dam, Tennessee, to determine whether establishing a special-regulation reach to reduce fishing mortality was a viable management option. Fifteen brown trout (size range, 430–573 mm total length) collected from the river were implanted with radio transmitters between November 1997 and May 1998. Forty-seven percent of these fish died or expelled their transmitters within 50 d postsurgery. The range of movement for surviving brown trout was significantly larger in fall (geometric mean range = 5,111 m) than in any other season. Four brown trout that were monitored for more than 1 year exhibited a limited range of movement ( 5 km) during the fall season, presumably to spawn. Brown trout also moved more during the fall than in any other season. Harvest restrictions applied to a specific reach of...
PRIISM: Internet Development in Asia Pacific

Tung X. Bui PRIISM Consortium Director The U.S. Naval Postgraduate School Department of Systems Management
Responses of feline caudal hypothalamic cardiorespiratory neurons to hypoxia and hypercapnia

Several studies have suggested that the caudal hypothalamus modulates responses to hypercapnia and hypoxia. In addition, this area of the hypothalamus contains neurons that have a sympathoexcitatory discharge. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the basal discharge of caudal hypothalamic neurons that are stimulated by hypercapnia or hypoxia is related to cardiovascular (sympathetic discharge and/or the cardiac cycle) and/or respiratory activity (phrenic nerve discharge). Hypothalamic single unit activity, phrenic nerve activity, and cervical sympathetic nerve activity were recorded in anesthetized cats. Computer averaging techniques were used to compare temporally the discharge of hypothalamic neurons with cardiovascular and/or respiratory activity. Cardiorespiratory and hypothalamic neuronal responses to ventilation with hypoxic (10% O2/90% N2) and hypercapnic (5% CO2/95% O2) gases were determined in intact and in peripherally-chemodenervated, barodenervated cats. Thirty-two percent of hypothalamic neurons were stimulated by a hypercapnic stimulus in intact cats; of those that were stimulated by hypercapnia, all had a basal discharge related to cardiovascular and/or respiratory activity. Hypoxia significantly increased the discharge rate of 21% of hypothalamic units in intact animals; 90% of those had a cardiovascular and/or respiratory-related rhythm. Only 13% of the neurons were stimulated by both hypoxia and hypercapnia. Similar results were found in barodenervated, peripherally chemodenervated cats. Neurons excited by these stimuli in both the intact and denervated cats were found to be concentrated in the posterior hypothalamic area. The results of this study suggest that a group of caudal hypothalamic neurons contribute to the cardiorespiratory responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia, but via separate subpopulations of neurons. In addition, input from peripheral baroreceptor and chemoreceptor afferents is not required for this modulation.
Limits of solubility, magnetic properties and electron concentration in Fe3-xTxSi system

Abstract The role of the outer electrons on the limits of solubility and bulk magnetic properties of the system Fe3-xTxSi (T - Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni) is investigated. A correlation with the magnetic and structural behavior of Fe1-cSic and Fe1-cAlc alloys is demonstrated.
Simultaneous expression of cell-mediated cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity to a syngeneic rat lymphoma: separation and partial characterization of two types of cytotoxic cells.

Abstract The immune response of W Fu rats to a syngeneic Gross virus-induced lymphoma (C58NT)D evokes the simultaneous generation of effector cells able specifically to destroy the tumor cells by two different cytotoxic pathways: cell-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC) and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). The question of possible interdependence in the relationship between the effector cells mediating both cytotoxicities was approached in several ways: (a) Immunospecific competition of one form of cytotoxicity (CMC or ADCC) did not interfere with the full expression of the other cytotoxic effect (ADCC or CMC, respectively), (b) Elimination of T cells by anti-thymocyte serum and complement completely abrogated the CMC activity while not impairing the ADCC activity, (c) Specific depletion of cytotoxic (CMC) lymphoid cells on monolayers of target cells bearing the sensitizing antigens considerably diminished the CMC activity, but did not affect the ADCC activity, (d) Depletion of Fc receptor-bearing cells (non-T cells) markedly reduced the ADCC activity, but did not interfere with CMC activity. These findings indicate that, in this system, two forms of cell-mediated cytotoxicity to tumor-associated antigens exist concurrently in the immune host and are expressions of different lymphoid cell populations; CMC is mediated by T cells, whereas ADCC is a non-T cell function.
Phase-reading, all-fiber-optic gyroscope.

An open-loop, all-fiber-optic gyroscope with wide dynamic range and linear scale factor is described. This novel approach converts the Sagnac phase shift into a phase shift in a low-frequency electronic signal by using optical phase modulation followed by amplitude modulation of the electronic signal. Preliminary experimental results verify the theoretical predictions.
Symmetrized curve-straightening

Abstract The ‘traditional’ curve-straightening flow is based on one of the standard Sobolev inner products and it is known to break certain symmetries of reflection. The purpose of this paper is to show that there are alternative Riemannian structures on the space of curves that yield flows that preserve symmetries. This feature comes at a price. In one symmetrizing metric the gradient vector fields are considerably more demanding to compute. In another symmetrizing metric smoothness is lost. This investigation will also explain the phenomena of ‘spinning’ as observed in several examples in the traditional flow. Three classes of alternative Riemannian structures are examined. The first class includes the traditional metric as a special case and is shown to never preserve both rotation symmetries and symmetries of reflection. The second class consists of a single metric corresponding to one of the standard Sobolev metrics, and is shown to preserve both types of symmetries. The third class also includes the traditional metric but it is shown that there is a unique different metric in this class, which preserves both types of symmetries. This particular metric generally yields smooth vector fields, which when evaluated at a smooth function do not give a smooth element of the corresponding tangent space. The third class is nevertheless ‘preferred’ since it has the distinction that it ‘respects’ the projection induced by the derivative operator onto the tangent bundle of the space of derivatives. The paper concludes with a number of graphical illustrations that show preserved symmetry and removal of spinning.
Epstein-Barr Virus–induced Molecule 1 Ligand Chemokine Is Expressed by Dendritic Cells in Lymphoid Tissues and Strongly Attracts Naive T Cells and Activated B Cells

Movement of T and B lymphocytes through secondary lymphoid tissues is likely to involve multiple cues that help the cells navigate to appropriate compartments. Epstein-Barr virus– induced molecule 1 (EBI-1) ligand chemokine (ELC/MIP3β) is expressed constitutively within lymphoid tissues and may act as such a guidance cue. Here, we have isolated mouse ELC and characterized its expression pattern and chemotactic properties. ELC is expressed constitutively in dendritic cells within the T cell zone of secondary lymphoid tissues. Recombinant ELC was strongly chemotactic for naive (L-selectinhi) CD4 T cells and for CD8 T cells and weakly attractive for resting B cells and memory (L-selectinlo) CD4 T cells. After activation through the B cell receptor, the chemotactic response of B cells was enhanced. Like its human counterpart, murine ELC stimulated cells transfected with EBI-1/CC chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7). Our findings suggest a central role for ELC in promoting encounters between recirculating T cells and dendritic cells and in the migration of activated B cells into the T zone of secondary lymphoid tissues.
Critical-locus curves and liquid-vapor equilibria in the binary systems of benzene with carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide

Critical-locus curves Tc(x) and Pc(x) have been determined for the carbon dioxide + benzene and sulfur dioxide + benzene systems. The data, together with existing liquid-vapor equilibrium data, are used to construct the complete phase diagrams at high pressures.
Effect of Cycle-Counting Methods on Effective Stress Range and Number of Stress Cycles for Fatigue-Prone Details

Two important parameters in fatigue life evaluations of existing steel highway bridges are the number of stress cycles experienced and the effective stress range. The inaccuracies in predicting remaining fatigue life can be attributed to either one of these two parameters. However, the AASHTO guide specification has no provisions for the cycle-counting methods to be used to determine these two parameters. A sensitivity analysis that addresses the effects of cycle-counting methods on the effective stress range and the number of cycles for various fatigue-prone details in both main and secondary bridge members is described. A comparison of five cycle-counting methods (level-crossing counting, peak counting, simple-range counting, mean-crossing-peak counting, and rain-flow counting) by using a simple variable-amplitude strain-time history showed that both the stress range and the number of cycles are sensitive to cycle-counting methods. Two of the most commonly used cycle-counting techniques for highway brid...
Tree climbing – a fundamental avian adaptation

There have been a number of studies on the claws of Mesozoic birds, largely driven by interest in the habitat of Archaeopteryx. Many Mesozoic avians have large, well formed manual claws, largely absent in contemporary birds. Juvenile hoatzins are the only living birds with claws that are large enough to be generally functional, but not equivalent to those of Mesozoic birds. When birds developed an effective backstroke permitting easy ascent from flat surfaces, the need for manual claws disappeared, which would suggest that they were primarily used for climbing tree trunks and had little function in prey capture. This hypothesis has both phylogenetic and functional implications. The numerous claw studies to date are based primarily on measurements taken of the bony core, all that is usually preserved in fossils. Examination of contemporary birds shows that this is a poor estimator of the size and shape of the horny sheath that actually forms the functional claw. The discovery of vast numbers of exceptional...
Inadequacy of saphenous vein grafts for cross-femoral venous bypass.

Abstract A mathematic model of unilateral iliac vein obstruction was used to establish the theoretic basis for selecting saphenous vein or a larger diameter prosthetic cross-femoral venous bypass graft for relief of obstructive venous hypertension. Common femoral vein resting and postexercise peak flows, and common femoral vein and saphenous vein diameters were measured in 18 healthy individuals and used to estimate the pressure gradient (dP) across 20 cm long cross-femoral venous bypass grafts of saphenous vein or 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 mm prosthetic conduits, in the presence of a transpelvic venous collateral network of varied cross section. The upper limits of normal for the gradients in our model (dP std ) were set at 4 mm Hg for resting flows and 6 mm Hg after exercise. Mean saphenous vein diameter was 4.3 ± 0.22 mm, which was 36.5% ± 1.73% of common femoral vein diameter. When the saphenous veins of two thirds of the individuals in our study were used as theoretic cross-femoral venous bypass conduits, >80% of postobstruction peak cross-femoral venous bypass graft flow had to be carried by collaterals to maintain a gradient ≤dP std . We demonstrated that 4.5 to 6.0 mm diameter saphenous cross-femoral venous bypass grafts would be hemodynamically efficacious in relieving venous hypertension, but only when implanted in parallel with an existing venous collateral network that limited the preoperative dP to 4.5 to 7.5 mm Hg at resting flows and 7.0 to 11.5 mm Hg after exercise; only 44% of saphenous veins were adequate for cross-femoral venous bypass grafts by these criteria. Prosthetic cross-femoral venous bypass conduits of ≥8 mm diameter eliminated venous hypertension even in the absence of collateral venous flow. (J VASC SURG 1991;13:622-30.)
The Use of Dabigatran Immediately After Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Dabigatran After AF Ablation. Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation requires postprocedural anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolic events because of the ablation procedure itself or due to recurrent AF postprocedure. Dabigatran is a new anticoagulant and may be useful after AF ablation to prevent thromboembolic events. Methods and Results: We evaluated 123 consecutive patients who were started on dabigatran after AF ablation. Patients were given enoxaparin 0.5 mg/kg at the end of the procedure, which was repeated 12 hours later and then discontinued. Dabigatran was started 22 hours postablation with drug dose based on renal function. Primary outcomes were thromboembolic events, bleeding complications, and side effects over a 30-day follow-up period. The preablation anticoagulant was warfarin in 56 (45.5%) patients, dabigatran in 34 (27.6%), and aspirin in 26 (21.1%). Seven (5.7%) patients were on no anticoagulant before ablation. The patients on dabigatran before ablation with normal renal function had the drug stopped 36 hours preablation. There were no preprocedural or intraprocedural thromboembolic episodes or bleeding. Three patients received dabigatran 75 mg bid and the rest 150 mg bid. There were no postablation strokes, transient ischemic attacks, or systemic thromboemboli in any patient. Three patients discontinued dabigatran and were changed to warfarin, 2 because of gastrointestinal side effects and 1 because of a diffuse rash. Conclusions: Dabigatran is safe and well tolerated after AF ablation. It did not cause bleeding complications and there were no thromboembolic events. Dabigatran appears to be an alternative to warfarin after AF ablation. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. pp. 1-5) anticoagulation, atrial fibrillation, catheter ablation, dabigatran, pulmonary vein isolation, stroke
Mortality in Chromium Chemical Production Workers: a Prospective Study

Mortality among male employees was studied in a chromium chemical production plant, part of which was rebuilt in 1950-51 and the remainder in 1960, to reduce exposure to chromium bearing dusts. Of 2 101 employees initially employed between 1945 and 1974 and having worked at least 90 days, the vital status of 88% was ascertained, as of mid-1977. Lung cancer mortality for hourly workers initially employed between 1945 and 1959 was significantly higher than in the comparison Baltimore City population (SMR = 2.0), yet it was lower than that reported in previous studies of this industry. A dose response effect was evident from the relationship between duration of employment and mortality. The lung cancer mortality among those employed for three or more years exclusively in the new facility was similar to that observed for such long-term workers in other parts of the plant. Specific job positions were examined. A history of employment in the Bichromate and Special Products Department (production of chromic acid and other products), known as the 'wet end', was associated with the increased lung cancer mortality in contrast to the Mill and Roast Department, known as the 'dry end'. Because of the long latency period associated with chromium exposure and cancer, it was not possible to adequately assess the risk of cancer for workers initially employed after 1960. Methodological issues related to these findings are discussed.
Eikonal approximation for intermediate‐energy atomic collisions

The physical features of the Glauber-eikonal and related approximations are examined. A new approach which improves the predictions and extends these approximations to lower energies is proposed.
Ways of Being

Ontological pluralism is the view that there are ways of being. Ontological pluralism is enjoying a revival in contemporary metaphysics. We want to say that there are numbers, fictional characters, impossible things, and holes. But, we don’t think these things all exist in the same sense as cars and human beings. If they exist or have being at all, then they have different ways of being. Fictional characters exist as objects of make-believe and holes exist as absences in objects. But, human beings and cars exist in a much more robust sense. What are ways of being? Why should be believe in them and what should we believe about them? This short essay provides an overview of the recent revival of ways of being and explores some of the surrounding issues.
Consistency evaluation in an operational environment involving many transactions

Energy transactions between electric power companies are commonly used to reduce operating costs. With movements toward a further de-regulated power industry, the number and importance of contracts are expected to increase. This paper proposes a new method to quickly and systematically evaluate potential contracts. A fundamental concern of contract analysis is whether or not the contract is feasible, i.e., if the terms of the contract, can be met without violating system operating constraints or prior contractual constraints. The novel features of our approach are a model of the essential components of a contract using rules and a contract consistency checking algorithm based on rule inference techniques. An example shows how the method is used to evaluate the consistency of a potential contract with existing contracts and other system constraints. The proposed method can help avoid tedious contract evaluation tasks while systematically ensuring that all constraints are met.
DNA stretching on functionalized gold surfaces

We describe a method for anchoring bacteriophage lambda DNA by one end to gold by Au-biotin-streptavidin-biotin-DNA bonds. DNA anchored to a microfabricated Au line could be aligned and stretched in flow and electric fields. The anchor was shown to resist a force of at least 11 pN, a linkage strong enough to allow DNA molecules of chromosome size to be stretched and aligned.
Extensive Loss of RNA Editing Sites in Rapidly Evolving Silene Mitochondrial Genomes: Selection vs. Retroprocessing as the Driving Force

Theoretical arguments suggest that mutation rates influence the proliferation and maintenance of RNA editing. We identified RNA editing sites in five species within the angiosperm genus Silene that exhibit highly divergent mitochondrial mutation rates. We found that mutational acceleration has been associated with rapid loss of mitochondrial editing sites. In contrast, we did not find a significant difference in the frequency of editing in chloroplast genes, which lack the mutation rate variation observed in the mitochondrial genome. As found in other angiosperms, the rate of substitution at RNA editing sites in Silene greatly exceeds the rate at synonymous sites, a pattern that has previously been interpreted as evidence for selection against RNA editing. Alternatively, we suggest that editing sites may experience higher rates of C-to-T mutation than other portions of the genome. Such a pattern could be caused by gene conversion with reverse-transcribed mRNA (i.e., retroprocessing). If so, the genomic distribution of RNA editing site losses in Silene suggests that such conversions must be occurring at a local scale such that only one or two editing sites are affected at a time. Because preferential substitution at editing sites appears to occur in angiosperms regardless of the mutation rate, we conclude that mitochondrial rate accelerations within Silene have “fast-forwarded” a preexisting pattern but have not fundamentally changed the evolutionary forces acting on RNA editing sites.
Intel's Pentium chip crisis: an ethical analysis

In October 1994 a mathematics professor informed the Intel Corporation that its Pentium chip had a flaw which caused mathematical errors. Intel's response to the professor and its customers created a backlash of anger and a public relations crisis. By analyzing Intel's actions using the work of two relevant ethical philosophies, the article shows that some of the company's errors in public relations were also ethical errors. However, it also points out that Intel has made improvements which will help it avoid future problems and which could set an ethical precedent for the semiconductor industry.
Melting fat away in flies

Two important proteins that function in regulating cell growth are the transcriptional regulator FOXO and the protein kinase Tor. A recent publication shows that the Melted protein can modulate both FOXO and Tor activity and can also regulate fat levels in Drosophila.
Receptionist or information kiosk: how do people talk with a robot?

The mental structures that people apply towards other people have been shown to influence the way people cooperate with others. These mental structures or schemas evoke behavioral scripts. In this paper, we explore two different scripts, receptionist and information kiosk, that we propose channeled visitors' interactions with an interactive robot. We analyzed visitors' typed verbal responses to a receptionist robot in a university building. Half of the visitors greeted the robot (e.g., "hello") prior to interacting with it. Greeting the robot significantly predicted a more social script: more relational conversational strategies such as sociable interaction and politeness, attention to the robot's narrated stories, self-disclosure, and less negative/rude behaviors. The findings suggest people's first words in interaction can predict their schematic orientation to an agent, making it possible to design agents that adapt to individuals during interaction. We propose designs for interactive computational agents that can elicit people's cooperation.
Effect of weight loss on left ventricular diastolic filling in morbid obesity

Abstract Substantial weight loss in morbidly obese subjects produces improvement in LV diastolic filling that is associated with weight loss-related decreases in LV mass and favorable alterations in LV loading conditions.
The Benefits of and Barriers to Computer Use for Individuals Who Are Visually Impaired

This article presents data from four focus groups of assistive technology (AT) computer users to understand how individuals who are blind or visually impaired gather information about AT and the ki...
Left atrium in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: structure, function, and significance

Cardiac remodeling is a fundamental part of the heart failure (HF) syndrome, representing a common response to various pathological stimuli that result in changes in the structural and functional properties of the heart. To date, most studies in HF have focused on ventricular remodeling, and much less emphasis has been placed on atrial structural and functional changes. Specifically, in the context of HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), more attention has recently been placed on the left atrial (LA) remodeling, which is now considered a potential therapeutic target and an end point for evaluation of novel therapies. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiologic and clinical implication of LA remodeling in HFpEF. Left atrium is a thin-walled structure located in the inflow path from the pulmonary veins to the left ventricle (LV) and is characterized by (a) main body with smooth walls that embryologically is developed from the outgrowth of the pulmonary veins and (b) by a finger-like trabeculated appendage, which is a remnant of the original embryonic left atrium.1 Distribution of atrial myocyte fibers is highly variable, but some components are relatively constant. In particular, the Bachmann’s bundle is the most superficial group of circumferential myofibers located close to the atrioventricular groove. In this bundle, the electric conduction from right to LA preferentially occurs. Other myocardial longitudinal fibres are likely responsible for upward motion of mitral annulus during atrial contraction. ### Mechanical Function The mechanical function of LA is usually defined by 3 phases of LA volume variations during the cardiac cycle. The reservoir phase takes place during ventricular systole when the LA collects blood coming from the pulmonary veins. This phase is mechanistically determined by LA relaxation and by LV contraction, which moves the mitral annulus toward the apex, resulting in increased LA volume.2 Atrial compliance allows chamber volume …
A methodology for the pre-clinical evaluation of patellar implants

A methodology for the alignment of patellar and femoral components in pre-clinical test of patellar components used in total knee arthroplasty is presented. The component alignment was based on kinematic degrees of freedom that should be considered to recreate clinically relevant patello-femoral contact patterns. A literature review of patellar kinematics revealed that patellar motion occurs in all six degrees of freedom. Retrieval studies reported that deformation was most prominent on the lateral aspect of the patellar component and in contact regions that occur at higher degrees of knee flexion. Based on this review, it was hypothesised that alignment of the patellar and femoral components should incorporate patellar flexion, proximal-distal translation, anterior-posterior translation and medial-lateral translation. The efficacy of the model was tested by evaluating its ability to create physiological contact patterns in patellar components used in total knee arthroplasty. Two types of components were tested: metal-backed dome and all-polyethylene sombrero-shaped of which the dome-shaped components have a higher reported incidence of failure. The component alignment method resulted in higher contact areas in the sombrero-shaped components than the dome-shaped. Contact patterns of both components were compared to contact patterns reported in the literature for natural and implanted patellae and compared favourably.
Characterization of the Functional Gene Encoding Mouse Class III Alcohol Dehydrogenase (Glutathione-Dependent Formaldehyde Dehydrogenase) and An Unexpressed Processed Pseudogene with An Intact Open Reading Frame

Multiple forms of vertebrate alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) have been identified, but only one form, class III ADH, has been conserved in all organisms studied. Class III ADH functions in vitro as a glutathione-dependent formaldehyde dehydrogenase, which suggests that this was the original function that drove the evolution of ADH. Genetic analysis of class III ADH in yeast supports this view, but such studies are lacking in higher eukaryotes. The mouse ADH family has been previously analyzed and it contains three forms of ADH including the class III enzyme. We have initiated a molecular genetic analysis of the mouse class III ADH gene (Adh-2) by screening a genomic library with a full-length cDNA. Two overlapping clones contained the complete Adh-2 gene composed of nine exons in a 12-kb region, with the placement of introns matching that observed in other mammalian ADH genes. In this screening, we also isolated a clone (ψAdh-2) that lacks introns and which resembles a processed pseudogene. ψAdh-2 contained 25 point mutations relative to the previously analyzed Adh-2 cDNA, but still retained an intact open reading frame. Northern blot analysis using gene-specific probes provided evidence that ψAdh-2 does not produce a mRNA in either liver or kidney, whereas Adh-2 does. The functionality of the two genes was also compared by fusion of their 5′-flanking regions to a lacZ reporter gene. Reporter gene expression following transfection into mouse F9 embryonal carcinoma cells indicated that only Adh-2 possesses promoter activity.
Normoxic Stabilization of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 Expression and Activity: Redox-Dependent Effect of Nitrogen Oxides

Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is an essential transcription factor involved in the oxygen-dependent regulation of gene expression. Thiol groups in HIF-1 or in proteins that modify HIF-1 are conventional targets for regulation by nitric oxide (NO). Moreover, NO delivery to tissue by hemoglobin appears to be oxygen dependent. Therefore, the role NO plays in regulating HIF-1 activity and expression was examined. The 1-substituted diazen-1-ium-1, 2-diolate NOC-18 induced HIF-1 DNA-binding activity in normoxic bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells and rat aortic smooth muscle cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Induction of HIF-1-binding activity was consistent with an increased expression of HIF-1 subunit proteins HIF-1alpha and HIF-1beta. The effect of NOC-18 on HIF-1 activity was blocked by cycloheximide, consistent with a post-transcriptional effect. NOC-18 induction of HIF-1 DNA-binding activity was not blocked with oxyhemoglobin, nor was it related to the rate of NO evolution, arguing against NO-mediation of the effect. Additionally, the effect of NOC-18 could not be mimicked by Angeli's salt, arguing against nitroxyl mediation. However, the NOC-18 effect could be reproduced by S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), an endogenous nitrosonium donor formed in the presence of deoxyhemoglobin. Furthermore, the GSNO effect could be reversed by dithiothreitol as well as acivicin, an inhibitor of GSNO bioactivation. Taken together, these results suggest that an S-nitrosylation reaction stabilizes HIF-1 protein expression and activity. We speculate that one signaling mechanism by which deoxyhemoglobin may activate HIF-1 involves NO.