cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Yeast Ssu72 Protein as a Mediator of Gene Loop Formation at Bidirectional Promoters

Research over the past ten years has revealed that bidirectional promoters are a common feature of eukaryotes from yeast to metazoans. Gene loops are three-dimensional structures that inhibit divergent transcription at bidirectional promoters. Ssu72, a multifunctional protein phosphatase, has been identified as a key component in directing gene loop formation. Molecular genetic characterization first identified Ssu72 as a component of the transcription initiation complex through an interaction with TFIIB. More recently, Ssu72 has been shown to inhibit divergent transcription by simultaneously binding to both promoter and terminator elements. Here, we describe the path of Ssu72 research from its discovery as a transcriptional regulatory protein to its role in the maintenance of transcriptional memory and repression of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Finally, we consider the role of Ssu72 and gene loops in human health.
Human neutrophil degranulation during extracorporeal circulation

Cardiopulmonary bypass, especially when prolonged, may result in hemostatic failure and pulmonary dysfunction, which has been attributed to changes in platelets and leukocytes, respectively. It has been well documented that contact of blood with synthetic surfaces causes platelet activation. In this report, we explore mechanisms of the activation of neutrophils during simulated in vitro extracorporeal circulation and document the release of neutrophil lactoferrin and elastase during clinical cardiopulmonary bypass (CCB). Inhibition in the simulated circuit by prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and lidocaine suggests different mechanisms for release of neutrophil-specific proteins. During CCB with a bubble oxygenator it was observed that platelet counts fell to 42% +/- 2% of baseline. In addition, beta- thromboglobulin antigen (beta TG), a platelet-specific, alpha-granule protein marker reflecting the release reaction, increased from 0.15 +/- 0.05 to 0.84 +/- 0.11 microgram/mL. Neutrophil counts decreased to 67% +/- 7% of prebypass levels but then gradually rose as bypass continued. Both lactoferrin, a neutrophil-specific granule marker, and neutrophil elastase, an azurophilic granule marker, increased in plasma threefold to 1.66 +/- 0.33 micrograms/mL and 1.65 +/- 0.68 microgram/mL, respectively, just before bypass was stopped. When fresh heparinized human blood was recirculated within an extracorporeal membrane oxygenator bypass circuit for 120 minutes, plasma beta-TG rose to 5.13 micrograms/mL, lactoferrin increased from 0.13 +/- 0.04 to 1.62 +/- 0.22 micrograms/mL, and neutrophil elastase rose from 0.05 +/- 0.02 to 1.86 +/- 0.41 micrograms/mL. At 120 minutes, lidocaine (100 mumol/L), which inhibits neutrophil activation, delayed release of lactoferrin (1.33 +/- 0.26 micrograms/mL) and markedly inhibited release of elastase (0.24 +/- 0.05 microgram/mL) but did not inhibit release of beta-TG antigen (5.66 micrograms/mL at 120 minutes). PGE1 (0.3 mumol/L) inhibited significantly the release of beta-TG (0.31 microgram/mL) and elastase (0.52 +/- 0.11 microgram/mL) and attenuated the release of lactoferrin (1.57 +/- 0.45 micrograms/mL).
Conceptual Neighborhoods for Retrieval in Case-Based Reasoning

We present a case-based reasoning technique based on conceptual neighborhoods of cases. The system applies domain knowledge to the case retrieval process in the form of recall and generalize methods. Recall methods utilize domain specific preconditions and perform exact matching, while generalize methods apply transformations that generalize features in queries. The system uses a similarity function based on edit distances, where an edit distance considers only a subset of the features. This retrieval strategy enables the system to locate conceptually similar cases within the feature space. We demonstrate the performance of this approach by applying it to build-order selection in a real-time strategy game. Our results show that the system outperforms nearest neighbor retrieval when enforcing imperfect information in a real-time strategy game.
Hierarchical Distributed Task Allocation for Multi-robot Exploration

In order to more effectively explore a large unknown area, multiple robots may be employed to work cooperatively. When properly done, the group allocates specific portions of the overall exploration task to different robots such that the entire environment is explored with minimal excess effort. In this work, we present a new hierarchical market-based approach to this allocation problem. Our approach builds on standard auction approaches to provide agents with a mechanism to independently form coalitions and to divide a coalition into smaller coalitions in response to the progress of their cooperative exploration process. These coalitions allow a subset of the team to move together efficiently, especially in constrained environments when there are few avenues for exploration. We also present implementation and simulated experiments which show how this natural hierarchy forms and can lead to more efficient exploration than using a greedy allocation technique or without the use of coalitions.
Use of Digital Video for Documentation of Microscopic Features of Tissue Samples

Abstract Context.—Digital photography is commonly used to document microscopic features of tissue samples, but it relies on the capture of arbitrarily selected representative areas. Current technologic advances permit the review of an entire sample, some even replicating the use of a microscope. Objective.—To demonstrate the applicability of digital video to the documentation of histologic samples. Design.—A Canon Elura MC40 digital camcorder was mounted on a microscope, glass slide–mounted tissue sections were filmed, and the unedited movies were transferred to a Apple Mac Pro computer. Movies were edited using the software iMovie HD, including placement of a time counter and a voice recording. Results.—The finished movies can be viewed in computers, incorporated onto DVDs, or placed on a Web site after compression with Flash software. The final movies range, on average, between 2 and 8 minutes, depending on the size of the sample, and between 50 MB and 1.6 GB, depending on the intended means of distribu...
The tower of Babel: Survey on concepts and terminology in electrical status epilepticus in sleep and continuous spikes and waves during sleep in North America

Summary Purpose: The terms “electrical status epilepticus during sleep (ESES)” and “continuous spikes and waves during sleep (CSWS)” have been used interchangeably when referring to related but different concepts. In addition, the quantification of epileptiform activity has not been standardized, and different approaches to quantification have been used. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent to which pediatric neurologists and epileptologists use a homogeneous terminology and conceptualization in CSWS and ESES and to characterize the current understanding of these conditions. Methods: A survey addressing the use of terminology in “ESES” and “CSWS” and the understanding of related concepts was distributed online to all members of the Child Neurology Society and the American Epilepsy Society mailing lists. Surveys were self-administered and collected using an online survey website (http://www.surveymonkey.com). Key Findings: Two hundred nineteen surveys were completed, 137 from the Child Neurology Society mailing list and 82 from the American Epilepsy Society mailing list. ESES and CSWS were considered synonymous by 117 respondents, not synonymous by 61, 21 respondents did not know, and 20 did not respond. Most respondents (63.1%) considered CSWS as a devastating epileptic encephalopathy with severe sequelae even if treated correctly, but 25.1% of respondents indicated that it does not leave sequelae if epilepsy was treated early and another 11.8% noted that cognitive difficulties resolved with age. Cognitive and/or language regression were considered mandatory for the diagnosis of CSWS by only 27% of the respondents. The diagnosis of CSWS was based on electroencephalography (EEG) assessment alone by 31% of respondents. Respondents used different methods for calculation of the epileptiform activity, different EEG samples for calculation, and considered differently the lateralized epileptiform activity. The cut-off values for percentage of the sleep record occupied by spike-waves were variable depending on the respondent. There was no agreement on whether these cutoff values were mandatory for the diagnosis of ESES and CSWS. Significance: Our data show that the professionals caring for children with ESES and CSWS in North America use the terms, concepts, and defining features heterogeneously. The lack of a common language may complicate communication among clinicians and jeopardize research in this field. We anticipate that our data will fuel the development of much needed common terminology and conceptualization of ESES and CSWS.
Student Achievement at CCCU-Member Colleges: A Comparison of CCCU Students' Outcomes on the Uniform CPA Exam to Students' Outcomes at AACSB and Other Institutions of Higher Education

This study investigated differences in Uniform Certified Public Accountant Exam (UCPAE) pass rates between candidates who graduated from Council for Christian Colleges & Universities member schools (CCCU-member) and candidates who graduated from institutions that are not CCCU members. The data set included 1,131 institutions (72,453 candidates) with reported 2012 UCPAE pass rates. CCCU-member schools were compared to schools accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) as well as to schools that were not accredited by the AACSB. A Mann-Whitney U test revealed that there is no statistically significant difference in pass rates between CCCU-member schools and schools with AACSB accreditation, but revealed a statistically significant performance advantage favoring CCCU-member schools compared to schools without AACSB accreditation. This finding suggests that CCCU-member schools are preparing candidates for the UCPAE as proficiently as are AACSB-accredited institutions. They...
Heterogeneity of human immunodeficiency virus cell-associated antigens and demonstration of virus type specificities of human antibody responses

We examined the antigens of human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) expressed on infected H9 cells using live-cell membrane immunofluorescence and immunofluorescence absorption. Application of this nondenaturing serological method permitted analysis of HIV antigenic determinants maintained in their native configurations on the cell surface. Sera from infected individuals were found to react variably with H9 cells productively infected with nine different HIV isolates, and certain sera were completely unreactive with some isolates. Absorption of the sera prior to use in immunofluorescence revealed extensive heterogeneity of HIV cell-surface antigens and multiple type-specific antibodies in patients' sera. Immunoprecipitation and SDS-PAGE analysis of radiolabeled cell-surface proteins indicated that the predominant serological reactions were to env-encoded proteins. The observed antigenic and antibody heterogeneity likely reflects env sequence heterogeneity which has been previously reported for different HIV isolates. The demonstration of antigenic diversity among HIVs and the importance of defining the native antigenic epitopes, particularly those most widely shared, are important issues that must be considered in vaccine development.
Cell adhesion and chemotaxis in prostate cancer metastasis to bone: a minireview

Bone metastasis is a common phenomenon in patients with advanced prostate cancer. The molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in this process are not well understood. Past reviews on this subject primarily focused on prostate tumor growth in the bone marrow and the effects this growth has on bone homeostasis (ie osteoblastic and osteolytic). Cell chemotaxis and adhesion are also important for site-specific metastasis. In this review we have focused on chemotactic and cell adhesion molecules potentially involved in prostate cancer metastasis to bone. In addition, recently developed animal models for prostate cancer metastasis to bone are discussed.
A novel LLC resonant converter with semi bridgeless active rectifier

A novel LLC resonant converter with semi bridgeless active rectifier (S-BAR) is proposed in this paper. The presented secondary side rectifier topology is applicable for EV battery chargers with wide output voltage range. This topology is achieved by replacing rectifier lower diodes with synchronous switches and regulation by a phase-shifted PWM signal. Simulation results show that the performance of the proposed S-BAR is appropriate for LLC resonant converter and EV battery charger applications. To confirm the performance of the proposed converter experimental results are provided for which output voltage range of 0 to 80 V with an input of 120 V and the full power 600 W.
Comparison of Blood Pressure Measurements by the Indirect Method to Those by the Direct Method

Abstract INTRODUCTION THE indirect measurement of blood pressure has many advantages over the direct estimation from cannulated arteries. These include minimal trauma, an apparatus which is simpler and which can be used under field conditions, and no necessity for general or local anesthetization. However, the difficulties inherent in the calibration of the indirect measurements with direct measurements have restricted their general application in many animals. One of the major factors to be considered in the estimation of blood pressure by the indirect method is the effect of cuff size. Weiss and Sturkie (1951) reported that in mature laying hens, changing the cuff size from three-quarters of an inch to one inch decreased the pressure necessary to occlude the transmission of the pulse through the artery by some 33 mm. Hg. In their studies, cuffs of one inch width in laying hens led to the smallest deviation between the indirect and direct…
Hume on the testimony for miracles

This study attempts to analyze and appraise the conception of testimony advanced by David Hume in his essay “Of Miracles.” It shows that Hume's conception of testimony can best be understood through a context of presuppositions drawn from his over‐all philosophical position. It concludes that although Hume's essay, when considered merely as an attack on or dismissal of miracles, is in several ways beside the point, it nonetheless deserves more attention as a conception of testimony than it has hitherto received from students of argumentation.
Obesity and heart disease awareness: A note on the impact of consumer characteristics using qualitative choice analysis

This note examines the impact of socio-economic and demographic factors on the likelihood that an individual is aware of the link between being overweight and heart disease. Results indicate that nonwhites, lower educated individuals, and those with lower income are less likely to be aware of the link between being overweight and heart disease. Considering the extent of the obesity problem in the United States, these results should be used as a guide in the design of food policy and health education campaigns about obesity and heart disease.
Expression and Functional Characterization of aDrosophila Neuropeptide Precursor with Homology to Mammalian Preprotachykinin A

Peptides structurally related to mammalian tachykinins have recently been isolated from the brain and intestine of several insect species, where they are believed to function as both neuromodulators and hormones. Further evidence for the signaling role of insect tachykinin-related peptides was provided by the cloning and characterization of cDNAs for two tachykinin receptors from Drosophila melanogaster. However, no endogenous ligand has been isolated for the Drosophila tachykinin receptors to date. Analysis of the Drosophila genome allowed us to identify a putative tachykinin-related peptide prohormone (prepro-DTK) gene. A 1.5-kilobase pair cDNA amplified from a Drosophila head cDNA library contained an 870-base pair open reading frame, which encodes five novel Drosophila tachykinin-related peptides (called DTK peptides) with conserved C-terminal FXGXR-amide motifs common to other insect tachykinin-related peptides. The tachykinin-related peptide prohormone gene (Dtk) is both expressed and post-translationally processed in larval and adult midgut endocrine cells and in the central nervous system, with midgut expression starting at stage 17 of embryogenesis. The predicted Drosophila tachykinin peptides have potent stimulatory effects on the contractions of insect gut. These data provide additional evidence for the conservation of both the structure and function of the tachykinin peptides in the brain and gut during the course of evolution.
Internationalizing a Campus is World Wide

The challenge to educate students holistically is world wide, and attempts to do so are underway. One is the Bologna Process, involving European Universities in a collaborative process to better define student learning goals and achievement. While some progress in better preparing students for career success has occurred, more work is needed everywhere to better create environments that foster global citizenship, including social and personal responsibility.
The relationships among teachers' self‐disglosive statements, students' perceptions, and affective learning

To develop an understanding of effective teaching in the typical classroom environment from a communication perspective, it is imperative the roles which interpersonal communication behaviors play in this context be understood. Self‐disclosure, a communication behavior known to have considerable impact in other interpersonal contexts, was the focus of this research. Phase 1 of the investigation assessed students’ perceptions of the likelihood of teachers making each of 150 disclosive statements. In the second phase, these statements were used to derive profiles simulating good, neutral, mixed, and poor profile conditions. Results from this study may provide teachers with a checklist which can be used to assess their own types of disclosures to students with an eye toward improving their own effectiveness.
Discrimination of T, B, and Null Lymphocytes by Electronic Sizing1

T, B, and null lymphocytes isolated by sheep red blood cells (SRBC) rosetting or adherence to a nylon wool column had distinct size differences according to Coulter counter size analysis. The diameters in microns were as follows: B = 6.42, T = 6.76, null = 7.16, granulocytes = 8.42, and monocytes = 9.02. Coulter size distributions of cell preparations were compared to the proportions of cells with E, EAC, and surface immunoglobulin (SIg) markers in these preparations as well as their reactivity to HLA-DR antisera and rabbit anti-B-lymphocyte antisera. Cell preparations monitored by Coulter sizing produced the expected results in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) testing. That is, T cells responded but did not stimulate whereas B lymphocytes and monocytes stimulated but did not respond. NULL lympocytes both stimulated and responded. In antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), null lymphocytes and monocytes functioned as effectors, whereas Tlymphocytes and granulocytes did not. B lymphocyte preparations were intermediate in activity. Coulter sizing is a rapid, simple means of assessing the purity of suspensions enriched for T, B, and null lymphocytes.
Involution of retinopathy of prematurity after laser treatment: factors associated with development of retinal detachment.

Purpose To identify specific features during the process of involution of retinopathy of prematurity after treatment at threshold that are associated with development of a retinal detachment. Design Retrospective case series. Methods The evolution of retinal detachments over time was analyzed retrospectively in 262 treated eyes of 138 infants. Specific features hypothesized to be associated with development of a retinal detachment were analyzed, including vitreous organization defined as clinically important , active stage 3 disease and active plus disease more than 21 days after treatment, and vitreous hemorrhage defined as clinically important. Results A retinal detachment developed in 36 (13.7%) of 262 eyes. Vitreous organization meeting our clinically important definition was associated with a 31-fold (confidence interval [CI] 5.37–183.63; P P clinically important was associated with a 38-fold (CI 2.69–551.19; P = .007) and 15-fold (CI 1.65–144.12; P = .02) increase in the odds for retinal detachment for right and left eyes, respectively. The timing of retinal detachment relative to vitreous hemorrhage was not determined. Prolonged activity of Stage 3 disease or plus disease more than 21 days after treatment was not associated with development of a retinal detachment. Conclusions Clinically important vitreous organization and vitreous hemorrhage were predictive for development of a retinal detachment. Evaluation of preemptive reintervention strategies for eyes at highest risk for developing a retinal detachment may be reasonable.
Experimental Analogue Study of Containment of Dense Plasmas in Resonant-Cavity Fields

ABSTRACT An analogue experiment has been devised to study the conditions for the equilibrium of dense plasma cores contained by r.f. cavity fields. Plasma cores are simulated by copper spheres, spheroids and other configurations. Frequency shifts that result from finite perturbations in (1) size, (2) position and (3) configuration are measured. The measurements are interpreted by use of the Wien-Ehrenfest adiabatic theorem to yield information on equilibrium of the core. Measurements indicate that cores in a spherical cavity are in stable equilibrium against all three types of perturbation only in the magnetic quadrupole mode and in higher order magnetic multipole modes of the cavity fields.
Atypical Brain Activation during Simple & Complex Levels of Processing in Adult ADHD: An fMRI Study.

Objective: Executive dysfunction in ADHD is well supported. However, recent studies suggest that more fundamental impairments may be contributing. We assessed brain function in adults with ADHD during simple and complex forms of processing. Method: We used functional magnetic resonance imaging with forward and backward digit spans to investigate number repetitions and complex working memory function. If pathology is limited to higher cognitive operations, group differences should be confined to the backward condition. Results: During the forward digit span, ADHD participants exhibited greater activation of LH linguistic processing areas and increased activation of right frontal and parietal cortices. During the backward digit span, they exhibited greater activation of LH linguistic processing areas and failed to activate bilateral parietal regions important for the complex executive operations. Conclusion: Abnormal brain function among adult ADHD participants was not limited to complex executive functions...
Neonatal detection and evaluation of infantile polycystic disease by gray scale echography

Infantile polycystic disease (IPCD) is an uncommon pathologic entity involving the kidneys and liver. Gray scale echography can detect this pathologic process within the kidneys, despite the presence of renal failure. In addition, the sonic study may detect associated hepatic abnormalities even though isotopic liver scan is normal. These capabilities make the ultrasonic examination uniquely suited for evaluating patients with IPCD.
What does the dexamethasone suppression test identify

The authors studied the Dexamethasone Suppression Test (DST) in chronic pain patients with and without major depression, using items from a modified version of the Hamilton Depression Scale, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale. The purpose of the study was to identify the factor or factors which discriminated DST suppressors from nonsuppressors. The data suggest that depression and its profile are efficient discriminators of suppressors and nonsuppressors. Anxiety-related items were not as good as discriminators. The items that identified nonsuppression were the items that are often seen in combination in endogenous depression.
Eye shield for patients undergoing laser treatment.

We developed a patient eye shield consisting of a sandwich of polymethylmethacrylate and tinfoil to provide corneal and retinal protection from inadvertent injury during argon, neodymium:YAG, or dye laser treatment. The shield was tested with argon, dye, neodymium:YAG, and CO 2 lasers. This new eye shield is safe, comfortable, and easy to clean and use.
L-carnitine may attenuate free fatty acid-induced endothelial dysfunction

We have recently shown that elevated levels of free fatty acid (FFA) seen in insulin-resistant obese subjects are associated with endothelial dysfunction. L-carnitine, which is required for mitochondrial FFA transport/oxidation, has been reported to improve vascular function in subjects with diabetes and heart disease. Here, we tested the hypothesis that L-carnitine attenuates FFA-induced endothelial dysfunction. We studied leg blood flow (LBF) responses and leg vascular resistance (LVR) to graded intrafemoral artery infusions of the endothelium-dependent vasodilator, methacholine chloride (MCh). A group (n = 7) of normal lean subjects was studied under basal conditions (saline), after 2 h of FFA elevation (FFA), and then after 2 h of superimposing L-carnitine on FFA elevation. FFA elevation caused the maximal LBF increment in response to MCh to decrease from 0.388 +/- 0.08 to 0.212 +/- 0.071 L/min (P < 0.05). Similarly, FFA blunted the maximum decrease in LVR in response to MCh from -315 +/- 41 U to -105 +/- 46 U (P < 0.05). The superimposed L-carnitine restored the LBF increment in response to MCh to 0.488 +/- 0.088 L/min (P < 0.05 vs. FFA) and the maximum fall in LVR to -287 +/- 75 U (P < 0.05 vs. FFA), indicating that L-carnitine elevation may attenuate FFA-induced endothelial dysfunction. In conclusion, our data suggest that increasing L-carnitine levels may improve FFA-induced and obesity-associated endothelial dysfunction. This improved endothelial function may delay or prevent the development of excess cardiovascular disease.
A Note on the Pythagorean Theorem of Baseball Production

Recent analyses of baseball managers' performances have employed the so-called ‘Pythagorean Theorem’ of baseball. This ‘theorem’ states that the ratio of wins to losses can be approximated by the square of the ratio of team runs scored to opposition runs scored. Recent publications assume this approximate relationship can be used to evaluate managers; implicit is the additional assumption that the Pythagorean relationship constitutes a production process. It does not. This paper derives the exact relationship between the wins, losses, runs scored and runs allowed. The result is an identity. We conclude that application of the ‘Pythagorean Theorem’ for manager evaluation is inappropriate. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative ultrastructural analysis of the follicular and luteal cells of the bovine ovary.

Ovaries were obtained from normal adult dairy cows at all days of the estrous cycle. The largest Graafian follicle and corpus luteum were excised, prepared for electron microscopic study, and their cell components quantitated using the linear scanning method and the counting of membrane crossings.
Preparation and X-ray diffraction studies of curium hydrides

Curium hydrides were prepared by reaction of curium-248 metal with hydrogen and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. Several of the syntheses resulted in a hexagonal compound with average lattice parameters of a/sub 0/ = 0.3769(8) nm and c/sub 0/ = 0.6732(12) nm. These products are considere to be CmH/sub 3//sup -//sub 8/ by analogy with the behavior of lanthanide-hydrogen and lighter actinide-hydrogen systems. Face-centered cubic products with an average lattice parameter of a/sub 0/ = 0.5322(4) nm were obtained from other curium hydride preparations. This parameter is slightly smaller than that reported previously for cubic curium dihydride, CmH /SUB 2-x/ (B.M. Bansal and D. Damien. Inorg. Nucl. Chem. Lett. 6 603, 1970). The present results established a continuation of typical heavy trivalent lanthanidelike behavior of the transuranium actinide-hydrogen systems through curium.
Posterior syphilitic uveitis: clinical characteristics, co-infection with HIV, response to treatment.

Purpose To describe the characteristics and clinical course of patients with active posterior syphilitic uveitis evaluated between 1991 and 2009.
Multiple-year water balance of soil covers in a semiarid setting.

Surface covers are used to isolate contaminants in hazardous and low-level radioactive sites for time frames ranging from hundreds of years to millennia or more. In the absence of data for such durations, the long-term performance of surface barriers can only be represented with short-term tests or inferred from analogs and modeling. This paper provides evidence of field performance of soil covers for periods up to 17 yr. The results of lysimeter studies from a semiarid site in Washington State show that a cover design known as the Hanford Barrier, which consists of 1.5 m of silt loam above a sand-gravel capillary break, can nearly eliminate drainage. The results were similar if plants were present or not, demonstrating the robustness of the design. Furthermore, reducing the silt loam thickness to 1.0 m (as might occur via erosion), with or without plants, did not lead to drainage. When irrigated to mimic 3× average precipitation conditions, the vegetated Hanford Barrier continued to prevent drainage. Overall, the results showed no loss in performance during the 17 yr of testing. Only when plants were eliminated completely from the 3× precipitation test did drainage occur (rates ranged from 6 to 16 mm yr -1 ). In a separate test, replacing the top 0.2 m of silt loam with dune sand and reducing the plant cover did not lead immediately to the onset of drainage, but soil matric heads within the silt loam noticeably increased. This observation suggests that dune sand migration onto a surface cover has the potential to reduce a cover's ability to minimize deep drainage.
Enhancing the Sensory Integration of Aphasic Students

This study investigated the value of a sensorimotor program to the sensory integration of aphasic students. The sensorimotor program, designed to enhance sensory integration, utilized sensory stimulation through motor activities. The relationship of change between three groups, one experimental and two control, was investigated. The experimental group received the sensorimotor program 20 minutes daily for seven months during the school year. One control group received only a remedial physical education program and the other control group received neither program. The statistical evidence shows a significant trend towards improved sensory integration after a sensorimotor program.
A Study of Induction Hardening Hole Surfaces in Clearance Fit Joints to Improve Fatigue Strength

The feasibility of using induction hardening to improve the fatigue strength of clearance fit clevis-type joints was investigated. Clearance fit joints are desired to facilitate machine assembly and disassembly in applications where accessibility and safety are a problem. The purpose of induction hardening the hole surface was to induce compressive residual stress near the hole to reduce the mean stress and to increase material strength. According to the Goodman criterion for steel, a greater stress range is possible with a reduced mean stress. The residual stress distribution produced near the hole was estimated by induction hardening rings and using a modification of the Sachs boring out method. The hole surfaces of a typical link were induction hardened and tension-tension fatigue tested. The load stress distribution was estimated using strain gages. It was determined that the fatigue strength of a clearance fit joint can be increased by at least 100 percent by induction dardening the hole surfaces.
Stationary Phases for Separation of Basic and Nonbasic Nitrogen Compounds or Hydrocarbons By Gas-Liquid Chromatography

Retention data and bleed rates have been measured for some relatively stable liquid phases to obtain operational limits for gas-liquid chromatographic separation of polar shale-oil concentrates with boiling points above 200/sup 0/C. Gas chromatographic separation of polar compounds with boiling points over 400/sup 0/C in quantities adequate for spectral identification may be accomplished on packed columns with efficiencies near 5000 theoretical plates and with less than one percent column bleed contamination. Relative retention values were determined for some basic and nonbasic nitrogen compounds, and some hydrocarbons on polyethylene glycol (Carbowax 20M), polyethylene glycol terminated with terephthalic acid (Carbowax 20M-TPA), octylphenoxypolyethoxy ethanol (Triton X-305), and purified Apiezon L doped with Carbowax 20M-TPA. Retention data were obtained at 180/sup 0/ and 220/sup 0/C on the polar liquid phases. Triton X-305 was found to show more alkyl character than Carbowax 20M. Column bleed rates were measured with five percent liquid phase at 220/sup 0/C, the maximum temperature found appropriate for extended use of the polar columns. The Carbowax 20M bleed rate was 0.10 ..mu..g hydrocarbon-equivalent min with very slightly less for the Carbowax 20M-TPA, while the Apiezon L rate was 0.01 ..mu..g/min, all at 73 ml/min (25/sup 0/C, 1 atm) flow rate. Anmore » Apiezon L column doped with five percent Carbowax 20M to reduce tailing exhibited a bleed rate characteristic of Carbowax 20M. Hydrogen flame response factors were determined for severalheterocyclic nitrogen compounds. By the agreement of hydrogen flame response factors for samples put through polar and nonpolar columns it was concluded that the polar columns do not destroy the relatively unstable indole-type nitrogen compounds although they are strongly retained.« less
Photoreductive dissolution of ferrihydrite by methanesulfinic acid: Evidence of a direct link between dimethylsulfide and iron-bioavailability

[1] Within open-ocean regions where excess macronutrients are present, phytoplankton growth is limited by the bioavailability of iron supplied to these areas primarily within atmospheric aerosols of crustal origin. However, processes that control the abundance of biologically accessible iron in these aerosols are largely unknown. Here we show that dissolution of ferrihydrite, a surrogate iron(oxy)hydroxide phase found in atmospheric waters, is enhanced in the presence of methanesulfinic acid (MSIA, CH3SO2H, a dimethylsulfide (DMS) oxidation intermediate) in laboratory irradiation experiments with aqueous suspensions that simulate marine aerosol particles. The increased release of soluble Fe(II) is attributed to a species specific and direct photochemical reduction rather than a proton-promoted effect, and suggests an efficient mechanism by which iron-starved phytoplankton can actively increase aerosol iron-bioavailability by increasing DMS emissions.
Changes in Keratocyte Density and Visual Function Five Years After Laser In Situ Keratomileusis: Femtosecond Laser Versus Mechanical Microkeratome

Purpose To determine the effects of keratocyte loss on optical properties and vision after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with the flap created with a femtosecond laser or a mechanical microkeratome. Design Randomized clinical paired-eye study. Methods Both eyes of 21 patients received LASIK for myopia or myopic astigmatism. One eye of each patient was randomized by ocular dominance to flap creation with a femtosecond laser and the other eye to flap creation with a mechanical microkeratome. Before LASIK and at 1, 3, and 6 months and 1, 3, and 5 years after LASIK, keratocyte density was measured using confocal microscopy, and high-contrast visual acuity and anterior corneal wavefront aberrations were measured by standard methods. At each visit, all variables were compared between methods of creating the flap and to the same variable before treatment using paired tests with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results Keratocyte density in the flap decreased by 20% during the first year after LASIK and remained low through 5 years ( P Conclusions A sustained reduction in keratocyte density does not affect vision or optical properties of the cornea through 5 years after LASIK. The method of creating a LASIK flap does not influence the changes in keratocyte density in the flap.
Ground Support Terminology and Classification: An Update

It is nearly two decades since a formal terminology and a classification scheme were proposed for rock reinforcement hardware and applications. That combined framework was used to clearly identify concepts associated with reinforcement mechanics in a manner that was consistent and robust enough to characterise all reinforcement systems. Since that time, many new reinforcement systems have been developed and it can be shown that they all fit within the proposed classification scheme. Most recently, a complementary new terminology and a classification scheme for surface support, also based on mechanics, have been developed. This framework is invaluable in the design of ground support schemes, the planning of testing and instrumentation programs and the development of software used to simulate the static and dynamic response of rock reinforcement and support systems. It will be shown that the terminology and classification schemes are valid today and will so remain into the future because of the laws of mechanics.
On spaces in which countably compact sets are closed, and hereditary properties

Abstract A space X is called C-closed if every countably compact subset of X is closed in X. We study the properties of C-closed spaces. Among other results, it is shown that countably compact C-closed spaces have countable tightness and under Martin's Axiom or 2ω0
Reliability constrained capacity expansion planning of water resource systems

Abstract Two questionable features of many existing studies of capacity expansion planning problems in water resources are (1) the modelling of the expansion as a deterministic process, and (2) the lack of control over the incidence of system failure. System failure, in this presentation, is related to the occurrence of shortfalls in water supply. A sequential decision model is used as a general framework for the formulation of stochastic demand capacity expansion problems subject to reliability constraints designed to regulate the incidence of system failure. Various different types of constraint are investigated and each is incorporated into a dynamic programming solution procedure by means of Lagrangian theory. Computational examples illustrate the potential importance of using such reliability constraints in the analysis of capacity expansion problems.
Sequence-Dependent Basepair Opening in DNA Double Helix

Preservation of genetic information in DNA relies on shielding the nucleobases from damage within the double helix. Thermal fluctuations lead to infrequent events of the Watson-Crick basepair opening, or DNA “breathing”, thus making normally buried groups available for modification and interaction with proteins. Fluctuational basepair opening implies the disruption of hydrogen bonds between the complementary bases and flipping of the base out of the helical stack. Prediction of sequence-dependent basepair opening probabilities in DNA is based on separation of the two major contributions to the stability of the double helix: lateral pairing between the complementary bases and stacking of the pairs along the helical axis. The partition function calculates the basepair opening probability at every position based on the loss of two stacking interactions and one basepairing. Our model also includes a term accounting for the unfavorable positioning of the exposed base, which proceeds through a formation of a highly constrained small loop, or a ring. Quantitatively, the ring factor is found as an adjustable parameter from the comparison of the theoretical basepair opening probabilities and the experimental data on short DNA duplexes measured by NMR spectroscopy. We find that these thermodynamic parameters suggest nonobvious sequence dependent basepair opening probabilities.
Efficiency and sideband observations of a Raman FEL oscillator with a “tapered” undulator

Abstract Power and spectral measurements are reported from the Columbia Raman FEL oscillator experiment. High power radiation pulses [∼12 MW, 100 ns] are generated at wavelength ∼2.5 mm, using a 750 kV electron beam injected into a helical undulator; the latter is made up of a constant period (1.45 cm) section 40 cm long followed by an equal length of tapered undulator. The period is decreased by 7.6% in such a way that the on-axis field remains constant. We find that the taper allows an increase in carrier power efficiency from ∼3% to ∼12%. Most noteworthy is that the tapered undulator produces radiation with less sideband power, unlike a constant period undulator which was studied in the same configuration. The power was measured calorimetrically and compared with the results of a 1D Raman code.
A developmental approach to mental health for children and adolescents with orofacial clefts

Structured Abstract Authors – Brent R. Collett, Matthew L. Speltz The mental health of children, adolescents, and adults with orofacial clefts has been studied extensively. Outcomes of interest have included parental adaptation, parent–child attachment, child development, intellectual and academic outcomes, behavioral adaptation, and quality of life. The literature sheds light on mental health needs and opportunities in each of these domains at various stages of development. However, this research has been limited in several respects and methodologically rigorous studies are needed to clarify the role of mental health in craniofacial team care. In particular, randomized controlled trials investigating the efficacy of psychosocial interventions tailored for this population are long overdue. Such studies have the potential to advance routine mental health care for individuals with orofacial clefts to the level of ‘evidence-based care.’
Responsibility for Product Safety in the Work Environment

A study was carried out exploring how people allocate responsibility for the safe use of products in the work environment. Products typically used in different work environments were named and subjects apportioned safety responsibility to the manufacturer of the product, the distributor/retailer, the employer, and the employee using the product. The mean percent responsibility allocated to these four choices was 41%, 11%, 22% and 26% respectively. A significant interaction between the products and the four alternatives indicated that the allocation varied across products. Allocations to manufacturers and employees differed to a large extent between products, but the allocations to retailers and employers remained relatively constant. Additional questions assessed the subjects' perceptions of and familiarity with the products. The results indicated that those products subjects viewed as having newer or more novel risks were also the products for which subjects allocated more responsibility to the manufactu...
Testosterone deficiency and replacement in older men.

It is now clear that men have gradual declines in average serum testosterone levels as they age. These decreases begin by middle age and continue into old age.1,2 Although the decreases are substantial in many men, they are quite variable. Some men, even in old age, maintain serum testosterone levels similar to those of healthy young men. Many of the physical and behavioral changes that occur in men as they age are similar to those that occur in younger men with hypogonadism. These changes include decreases in muscle mass, strength, bone mass, and sexual function and increases in body . . .
Food Processing by Pulsed Electric Fields: Treatment Delivery, Inactivation Level, and Regulatory Aspects

Abstract Industrial implementation of pulsed electric field electro-technology (PEF) for food preservation has been rather slow, despite its potential to produce safe, nutritious and high-quality products. Several research groups around the world are in a race to validate and optimize the operation of PEF systems. Insufficient kinetic studies and inaccurate treatment delivery assessment are some of the main obstacles to the implementation of this technology. Equivalency among PEF systems, treatment delivery and control variables need to be clearly defined before actual industrial implementation takes place. Limited commercial availability of PEF systems, mainly due to the complexity and high cost of pulsers, and to technical and economical limitations of the scaling-up process, reflects into high initial investment and operation costs. This paper reviews the state of the art on the above-mentioned issues, and also discusses engineering, biological, and regulatory aspects that should be considered for optimization and commercial implementation of PEF as a food preservation technology.
Regulation of insulin receptors and insulin responsiveness in 3T3-L1 fatty fibroblasts.

Murine 3T3-L1 fibroblasts develop, under certain stimuli, many characteristics of mature adipocytes. We have studied the insulin receptors and insulin responsiveness of 2- deoxyglucose transport and glucose oxidation of these cells at three different stages of growth and differentiation: 1) sparse, growing fibroblasts; 2) confluent, undifferentiated fibroblasts; and 3) fatty fibroblasts. Sparse, growing 3T3-L1 cells had the lowest number of insulin receptors (about 9000/cell). As the growing cells reached confluence, insulin binding increased 4-fold, and with differentiation into fatty fibroblasts, a further 3-fold increase occurred. Analysis of binding data indicated that these changes were accounted for by increases in insulin receptor number with no change of receptor affinity. Growth of the cells and fatty differentiation were also accompanied by changes in glucose metabolism and insulin responsiveness. Insulin had only a minimal effect on glucose metabolism in sparse and confluent fibroblasts but had...
Evidence for organochlorine contamination in tissues of salmonids in Lake Tahoe.

Abstract To evaluate the extent of organochlorine pollution in the Sierra Nevada ecosystem, residues of certain organochlorines in lake trout and Kokanee fish from Lake Tahoe, an alpine lake located between the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and the Carson Range of California and Nevada, were analyzed. Multiresidue analysis in fish muscle revealed wet weight concentrations of total polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the range 18 to 430 ppb and of p , p ′-DDE in the range 5 to 85 ppb in the two fish species studied. In one large lake trout sample (6.6 kg), which was studied in more detail as compared with others, residue levels of PCB (267 ppb), toxaphene (154 ppb), a chlordane mixture (78 ppb), and a DDT mixture (154 ppb) were found in muscle. Full spectra of specific PCB congeners and p , p ′-DDE were obtained from fish fat tissues and their identities were confirmed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results of total PCB analysis indicated that residues found in fish consisted mostly of moderately (tri- to tetrachloro-) to highly (penta- to heptachloro-) chlorinated biphenyls. For all fish residues analyzed, the best match to PCB residue profiles was with Aroclor 1260 or 1262.
Thoracic Imaging in the Intensive Care Unit

Chest radiography is the most common radiological ex amination performed in the United States. Of the more than 260,000 radiological examinations performed an nually at our institution, slightly mo...