cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhanced quinpirole response in rats lesioned neonatally with 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine.

The ontogenic destruction of dopamine (DA) neurons in rat brain is associated with supersensitization of DA D1 receptors. This effect is attenuated when rats are cotreated in ontogeny with the serotonin (5-HT) neurotoxin, 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT). In an attempt to determine whether 5-HT fibers might have a similar modulatory role on the sensitivity of the DA D2 receptor complex, we pretreated rats with desipramine HCl (20 mg/kg IP, base), 1 h before the DA neurotoxin, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA; 134 μg ICV, base) and/or 5,7-DHT (75 μg ICV) and/or vehicle. At about 3 months after birth dose-effect curves for quinpirole-induced oral activity were constructed for each group of rats. We found that quinpirole, an agonist for the DA D2 receptor complex, produced a dose-related increase in oral activity in all groups of rats. After a 200 μg/kg dose of quinpirole HCl, however, neonatal 5,7-DHT-lesioned rats had a peak oral response of 54.4 ± 5.1 (mean and SEM) vs. 22.6 ± 4.8 for control rats (p < 0.01). In neonatal 6-OHDA-lesioned rats this dose of quinpirole increased oral activity to 36.8 ± 5.8 oral movements (p < 0.05 vs. control). In rats lesioned with both 5,7-DHT and 6-OHDA, the oral response was not different from control. The enhanced oral response to quinpirole in 5,7-DHT-lesioned rats was attenuated by spiperone, an antagonist for the DA D2 receptor complex. These findings are believed to be the first to demonstrate that receptors of the DA D2 complex become sensitized after ontogenic injury to 5-HT fibers. This effect is opposite to the attenuated sensitivity of DA D1 receptors in rats with a similar 5-HT lesion.
On a perturbation problem in structural dynamics

Abstract Perturbation solutions for the differential equation governing dynamic buckling of an elastic column are discussed. A region of validity is suggested for a solution of Hoff's, and two alternate solutions are presented. Results of both of these solutions are compared with results obtained by numerical integration of the full equation.
Conformational changes in α7 acetylcholine receptors underlying allosteric modulation by divalent cations

Allosteric modulation of membrane receptors is a widespread mechanism by which endogenous and exogenous agents regulate receptor function. For example, several members of the nicotinic receptor family are modulated by physiological concentrations of extracellular calcium ions. In this paper, we examined conformational changes underlying this modulation and compare these with changes evoked by ACh. Two sets of residues in the α7 acetylcholine receptor extracellular domain were mutated to cysteine and analyzed by measuring the rates of modification by the thiol-specific reagent 2-aminoethylmethane thiosulfonate. Using Ba2+ as a surrogate for Ca2+, we found a divalent-dependent decrease the modification rates of cysteine substitutions at M37 and M40, residues at which rates were also slowed by ACh. In contrast, Ba2+ had no significant effect at N52C, a residue where ACh increased the rate of modification. Thus divalent modulators cause some but not all of the conformational effects elicited by agonist. Cysteine substitution of either of two glutamates (E44 or E172), thought to participate in the divalent cation binding site, caused a loss of allosteric modulation, yet Ba2+ still had a significant effect on modification rates of these residues. In addition, the effect of Ba2+ at these residues did not appear to be due to direct occlusion. Our data demonstrate that modulation by divalent cations involves substantial conformational changes in the receptor extracellular domain. Our evidence also suggests the modulation occurs via a binding site distinct from one which includes either (or both) of the conserved glutamates at E44 or E172.
A Survey of Parent Satisfaction with Pediatric Neuropsychological Evaluations

Satisfaction with pediatric neuropsychological evaluations was surveyed by asking parents or guardians of children who completed pediatric neuropsychological evaluations at a large children's hospital over a 2-year period to complete a 30-item rating scale. The scale included items drawn from published measures of consumer satisfaction, and incorporated a well-validated measure of general satisfaction. A total of 338 surveys were distributed, with 117 completed, for a return rate of 35%. Respondents were generally similar to non-respondents, except that respondents had a higher average level of maternal education and were more likely to have been referred for neuropsychological evaluations by sources outside the hospital. Parents were generally satisfied with pediatric neuropsychological evaluations, although some parents indicated that the evaluations did not provide as much help as expected. A factor analysis of the survey instrument revealed four dimensions of satisfaction: General Satisfaction, Clinician Acceptance/Empathy, Provision of Help, and Facilities/Administrative Assistance. Maternal education was negatively correlated with all four factors, but no other demographic, patient, or clinician variables were significantly related to satisfaction. Future studies could survey physicians and educators to provide a more complete understanding of satisfaction with pediatric neuropsychological evaluations.
Primary Care Psychology: An Opportunity for Closing the Gap in Mental Health Services for Older Adults

Older adults, particularly in minority and lower income communities, continue to receive less mental health care relative to the general population. Concurrently, there has been increasing emphasis on the need to integrate mental health services into primary care settings. This push toward integration presents a unique opportunity to help close the gap in mental health services to underserved populations, including older adults. We discuss factors that have influenced this trend and specifically address the role of primary care–based psychologists in treating psychological disorders in older adults. A primary care psychology service at an urban training clinic is described and data are presented on 134 consecutive older adult patients who received services. Finally, two cases are presented to illustrate how integrated care can reach older adults who may not otherwise seek services or would get services only after psychological issues had become more acute. These cases support the view that integrated prim...
Immunologic basis of chronic allergic diseases: clinical messages from the laboratory bench.

During the past decade there have been significant advances in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying allergic responses. Immediate hypersensitivity reactions are mediated primarily by mast cells in an IgE-dependent manner. After the local release of various mediators, proinflammatory cytokines, and chemokines, there is a cell-mediated response that is dominated by eosinophils and T lymphocytes. The majority of T cells in early allergic reactions are memory T cells secreting helper type 2 (TH2)-like cytokines, i.e. IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, but not interferon-γ. These cytokines regulate IgE synthesis and promote eosinophil differentiation and cell survival, thus contributing to allergic inflammatory responses. Failure to control immune activation early in the course of allergic inflammation may blunt the response to glucocorticoid therapy and contribute to long-term morbidity of disease. The identification of key cells and cytokines involved in the initiation and maintenance of allergic inflammation is likely to become an important therapeutic target in the future management of this important group of diseases.
Analysis of linear determinacy for spread in cooperative models.

The discrete-time recursion system $\u_{n+1}=Q[\u_n]$ with $\u_n(x)$ a vector of population distributions of species and $Q$ an operator which models the growth, interaction, and migration of the species is considered. Previously known results are extended so that one can treat the local invasion of an equilibrium of cooperating species by a new species or mutant. It is found that, in general, the resulting change in the equilibrium density of each species spreads at its own asymptotic speed, with the speed of the invader the slowest of the speeds. Conditions on $Q$ are given which insure that all species spread at the same asymptotic speed, and that this speed agrees with the more easily calculated speed of a linearized problem for the invader alone. If this is true we say that the recursion has a single speed and is linearly determinate. The conditions are such that they can be verified for a class of reaction-diffusion models.
Publishing Bibliographic Data On Optical Disks: A Prototypical Application And Its Implications

Bibliographic databases are quite large and relatively static, making them ideally suited for storage on optical media now becoming available. Consequently, libraries and publishing houses are pioneering certain applications of optical disks. The high storage density and the economy of optical disks make them attractive media for large databases. However, two factors create problems in the design of sophisticated retrieval software: certain device characteristics (e.g., slow access time compared to magnetic media), and the user interface requirements for bibliographic data. We discuss a prototypical application of optical disks to the publishing of the Library of Congress's machine-readable collection (the MARC and REMARC databases). The prototype disk is manufactured from pre-mastered videotape and is controlled by an IBM PC microcomputer. The prototype represents a significant effort in system integration, requiring development of hardware interface, error correction, low-level access software, high-level language interface, and user-friendly front-end applications. To prepare the data for indexing and display, mainframe software was developed. Based on our experience with the prototype, we discuss a number of issues common to the publication of such databases: data structures, search strategies, precomputation of retrieval results (a powerful technique well-suited to optical disk applications), and issues pertaining to standardization and publication formats.
National Adherence to Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Prescription of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Background & Aims: Our objective was to assess adherence to evidence-based guidelines by providers of the Department of Veterans Affairs nationwide. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among veterans prescribed a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2002. Prescription data were linked to inpatient and outpatient medical records and death files. The population was characterized as high risk based on the following: age 65 years or older, concurrent corticosteroid or anticoagulant use, history of peptic ulcer, and high average daily dose of NSAIDs. Adherence was defined as the prescription of a traditional NSAID with gastroprotection or a coxib in high-risk NSAID users. Univariate and multivariate analyses assessed the potential predictors of adherence. Results: Three hundred three thousand seven hundred eighty-seven met our definition of high risk. Most (97.3%) were male; 55.6% were white, 9.6% black, and 34.8% of other/unknown race. Age 65 years or older was the largest high-risk subset (87.1%). Overall, only 27.2% of high-risk veterans (n = 82,766) were prescribed an adherent strategy. Among veterans with at least 2 risk factors, adherence was 39.7%; among those with 3 risk factors, adherence was 41.8%. Predictors of adherence included history of upper gastrointestinal events, anticoagulant use, rheumatologic disease, high Deyo comorbidity index score, use of low-dose salicylates, and concurrent corticosteroid use. Predictors of nonadherence included prescriptions ≥90 days and high average daily dose of NSAIDs. Conclusions: Adherence to evidence-based guidelines for safe prescription of NSAIDs in the Department of Veterans Affairs is low (27.2%). The likelihood of adherence is further decreased if veterans are prescribed NSAIDs for ≥90 days.
Multiple classes of catecholamine vesicles observed during exocytosis from the Planorbis cell body

Abstract The heterogeneous nature of vesicles has been studied by evaluating exocytotic events released from the cell body of a dopamine-containing neuron of Planorbis corneus. Vesicular exocytosis has been elicitied by stimulation with in situ application of elevated potassium and has been monitored electrochemically with a carbon fiber microelectrode placed on the cell body. These electrodes allow individual release events to be monitored and quantitated to reveal vesicular dopamine content. Statistical analysis of individual release events demonstrates that two classes of vesicles with specific bimodal distributions in dopamine content and vesicle size are observed after cell stimulation. The effect of a psychostimulant on individual vesicular dopamine level has been studied by treating the cells with D-amphetamine. After a 20-min application of 10 μM amphetamine, changes in both vesicle content and size distributions are obtained with an overall decrease in vesicular dopamine level of 40%. The altered distribution show trimodal shapes indicating a third class of vesicles is created by amphetamine treatment. Our data appears to indicate that multiple classes of vesicles are released from the cell body of the dopamine-containing neuron and vesicular dopamine level can be manipulated by the application of the lipophilic weak base amphetarnine.
Effects of gas environment on mineral reactions in Colorado oil shale

The effects of various sweep gases (N2, CO2, and H2O) on the decomposition and reaction of calcite and dolomite (ankerite) in Colorado oil shale is reported. The disappearance of reactants and formation of products in the temperature range of 500 to 900 °C is monitored by using powder X-ray diffraction. The results show that, over this temperature range, the effect of gas environment on the rate of silicate formation follows the order H2Os>CO2s>N2. The ‘final’ silicate-product phases are observed to be a mixture of melilite, diopside, and merwinite. Global reaction kinetics are developed that describe the rate of CO2 evolution during decomposition of dolomite and calcite in the presence of various partial pressures of steam. Such data are useful in numerical models of oil shale retorting. Finally, the implications of these results on processing and on environmental aspects of oil shale retorting are discussed.
SOORLS: A SOFTWARE REUSE APPROACH ON THE WEB

The Summary-based Object-Oriented Reuse Library System (SOORLS) was developed to support both librarians who manage databases of object-oriented reusable components, and software developers who intend to use these components to develop software on the Web. This paper presents the library management functions implemented by SOORLS, with focus on a software reuse approach based on the summary contents of the library. The cluster-based classification scheme proposed in this paper alleviates the labor-intensity domain analysis problem often attributed to traditional facet-based classification schemes. We then concentrate on the facilities offered by SOORLS' tools, as well as its Web-based architecture, which allows distributed access to reusable components on servers from a variety of platforms.
Multivariable gain margin

Abstract The gain margin for a multivariable system is defined by examining the positive definite hermitian (p.d.h.) portion of the polar decomposition of a non-singular perturbation, A, in the feedback path. The dual result defining the phase margin for a multivariable system has been derived by Bar-on and Jonckheere (1990) by examining the unitary portion of the polar decomposition for non-singular perturbations. This paper focuses on the multivariable gain margin, The main result is an extension of the classical SISO concept of gain margin to MIMO systems. The definition for gain margin presented encompasses both gain reduction and gain amplification tolerance because the measurement is relative to the identity matrix as opposed to zero. Closed loop stability is guaranteed for all p.d.h. matrices in the feedback path whose gain, relative to the identity matrix, is less than the gain margin of the system. Calculation of the gain margin requires solving a constrained optimization problem which is almost ...
Needle exchange and AIDS prevention: controversies, policies and research

This paper reviews the key public health issues, social science research, and policy debates that surround the issue of needle exchange as an AIDS prevention strategy among injection drug users. As worldwide rates of drug use-related HIV infection and injection drug use have continued to rise, there is growing public health pressure to identify effective prevention strategies. Needle exchange, while consistently found to be effective in lowering AIDS risk and in preventing new HIV infection, remains a controversial issue in the U.S. because this "harm reduction" approach fails to condemn drug use, suggesting the underlying moral issues in an increasingly intense public policy conflict.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diet attenuates stress-induced lactacidemia in 10-day-old rats.

BACKGROUND Lactacidemia is often seen under stress conditions including septic shock in the newborn. Under stress conditions, plasma catecholamine concentrations are increased and play an important role in lactate metabolism. Our previous study shows that perinatal feeding of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diet (omega-3PUFA) attenuates lactacidemia of endotoxic shock in 10-day-old rats. In the omega-6 fatty acids series, decosapentanoic acid, two series prostaglandins and four series leukotrienes are synthesized through linoleic acids. As plasma lactate concentration correlates with the outcome of septic shock in the newborn, it is important to understand the effects of omega-3PUFA on lactate metabolism. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that perinatal feeding of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diet (omega-3PUFA) alters responses to catecholamines and attenuates the stress-induced lactacidemia in 10-day-old rats. METHODS Ten-day-old rats which perinatally fed omega-3PUFA. Lactacidemia was induced by swimming for 5 min. Ten-day-old rats which perinatally fed omega-6PUFA were controls. Omega-6 fatty acids series are contained in animal fats and corn oil. Adrenergic blockers were used to assess roles of catecholamines in swimming-induced lactacidemia. RESULTS Swimming increased plasma lactate concentration less (P<0.05) in rats fed omega-3PUFA than rats fed omega-6PUFA. Swimming increased plasma concentrations of glucose and glucagon, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) concentration and phosphoenolypruvate carboxykinase mRNA in the liver, and cAMP concentration in the hindlimb muscle more (P<0.05) in rats fed omega-3PUFA than in rats fed omega-6PUFA. Phentolamine and propranolol enhanced swim-induced lactacidemia in the omega-3PUFA group, while they decreased the lactacidemia in the omega-6PUFA group. Propranolol enhanced swimming-induced hyperglycemia in the omega-6PUFA group more than in the omega-3PUFA group. CONCLUSIONS Omega-3PUFA might increase beta-adrenergic response in the liver and increase gluconeogenesis in response to stress, resulting in decreased lactacidemia.
A Novel Approach for Mining and Fuzzy Simulation of Subnetworks From Large Biomolecular Networks

Understanding the biomolecular network implementing cellular function goes beyond the old dogma of ldquoone gene: one functionrdquo; only through comprehensive system understanding can we predict the impact of genetic variation in the population, design effective disease therapeutics, and evaluate the potential side-effects of therapies. In this paper, we present a novel method to model the regulatory system that executes a cellular function, which can be represented as a biomolecular network. Our method consists of three steps. First, the biomolecular network is derived using data-mining approaches to extend the initial conceptual biomolecular network from the literature search, etc. Secondly, once the whole biomolecular network structure is complete, a novel scale-free network clustering approach is applied to obtain various subnetworks. Lastly, fuzzy rule based models are generated for the subnetworks and simulations are run to predict their behavior in the cellular context. The modeling results represent hypotheses that are tested against high-throughput data sets (microarrays and/or genetic screens) for both the natural system and perturbations. If computational results do not match experimental or previously published results, then new hypotheses are formed and they feed back into the data-mining and analyzing step to refine the biomolecular network for the next iteration. This is repeated until a good match between modeling and data is obtained. Notably, the dynamic modeling component of this method depends on the automated network structure generation of the first component and the subnetwork clustering, which are both essential to make the solution tractable. Experimental results on human gene interaction networks and gene expression time series data for the human cell cycle indicate that our approach is promising for subnetwork mining and simulation from large biomolecular networks, as it produces a better convergence between continuous modeling and experiments.
Plasmon resonance modes in two-dimensional arrays of metallic nanopillars

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and localized plasmon resonance modes in two-dimensional arrays of silver nanopillars on silver surface were analyzed using the three-dimensional finite-difference time domain method. What we believe to be a new type of plasmon resonance modes at oblique incident angle for p-polarized light was observed in two-dimensional arrays of silver nanopillars in a square lattice. This resonance mode is associated with two SPP-like electric field patterns along the metal surface. We found that this resonance mode is localized and excited by the transverse polarization mode of nanopillars. Using Poynting vector plots, it was observed that the plasmon resonances in arrays of nanopillars are always associated with large energy cyclones near the nanopillars leading to light absorption.
Evaluating alternative risk-adjustment strategies for surgery

Abstract Background Comparison of institutional health care outcomes requires risk adjustment. Risk-adjustment methodology may influence the results of such comparisons. Methods We compared 3 risk-adjustment methodologies used to assess the quality of surgical care. Nurse reviewers abstracted data from a continuous sample of 2,167 surgical patients at 3 academic institutions. One risk adjustor was based on medical record data (National Surgical Quality Improvement Program [NSQIP]) whereas the other 2, the DxCG and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), primarily used International Classification of Disease-9 (ICD-9) codes. Risk-assessment scores from the 3 systems were compared with each other and with mortality. Results Substantial disagreement was found in the risk assessment calculated by the 3 methodologies. Although there was a weak association between the CCI and DxCG, neither correlated well with the NSQIP. The NSQIP was best able to predict mortality, followed by the DxCG and CCI. Conclusion In surgical patients, different risk-adjustment methodologies afford divergent estimates of mortality risk.
Node activation with polling channel access

We present a new protocol for collision-free channel access in ad hoc networks called the node activation with polling access (NAPA) protocol. NAPA assumes a time-slotted channel and operates by having each node elect a transmitting node for each time slot based on the identifiers of the nodes in its two-hop neighborhood. In contrast to prior topology-dependent transmission scheduling schemes (e.g., node activation multiple access, or NAMA) in which time slots are wasted when nodes selected for transmission have no packets to send, NAPA complements the election of nodes by means of polling and carrier sensing to use time slots allocated to nodes with no data to send. When a node elected for transmission has no packets to send, it polls one or multiple one-hop neighbors, and each neighbor determines if it can transmit during the time slot based on the identifiers of its two-hop neighbors and sensing of the channel. We show that NAPA supports collision-free transmissions, and compare its performance against NAMA.
Complete basis set limit ionization potentials of O3 and NO2 using the multiconfigurational spin tensor electron propagator method (MCSTEP)

We have calculated low-lying principal vertical ionization potentials (IPs) of O3 and NO2 with the multiconfigurational spin tensor electron propagator method (MCSTEP) using several different basis sets. We obtain an estimate of complete basis set limit (CBS) MCSTEP IPs. This is the first time CBS estimates have been used with MCSTEP. We show that MCSTEP is accurate and reliable compared with experiment at the CBS limit for obtaining low-lying vertical IPs for open shell molecules such as NO2 and highly correlated molecules such as O3. Our results confirm previous assignments of photoelectron peaks based on calculations made using less accurate methods.
Methods of automatically acquiring images from digital medical systems

Automated image acquisition plays an important role in a picture archiving and communication system (PACS). However, there is no single solution for automated data acquisition from existing digital medical imaging systems. We have gained a great deal of experience on automatic acquiring data by interfacing imaging scanners of major manufacturers. In this paper, we categorize the interface methods supported by the current image scanners. This categorization consists of five architectural models: (a) sequential chain; (b) direct interface; (c) memory access; (d) shared disk; and (e) interconnected network. The cost, rate of data transfer, and ease of implementation of each model are discussed. To ensure the integrity and availability of patient images in a PACS system, automated fault tolerance design in image acquisition is required. Based upon our field data, we report common scenarios which cause the acquisition to fail. We also describe techniques employed to automatically restart the operations which include recovery from acquisition processes' errors and traps, image acquisition computer down-time occurrence, and shutdown occurrence of medical imaging system.
The Tremulous Public Body: Robots, Change, and the Science Fiction Film

(1991). The Tremulous Public Body: Robots, Change, and the Science Fiction Film. Journal of Popular Film and Television: Vol. 19, No. 1, pp. 14-23.
Creating Rhetorical Stability in Corporate University Discourse Discourse Technologies and Change

Written communication scholarship has shown that successful social change requires discursive stability. This study was designed to investigate how this stability is created. Critical discourse analysis of 30 corporate university articles investigated claims authors made about the expansion of market-based values into contexts of organizational learning and academic higher education. In total, 243 claims were examined for uses of modality, hedging, presupposition, and the progressive aspect. Results claim that articles used modality, hedging, and the progressive aspect to create strategic ambiguity that was resolved ideologically through presuppositions that reflect the assumptions of “the new capitalism.” Results indicate that discursive stability is not solely a semantic issue but may occur pragmatically and syntactically as texts are structured to displace existing knowledge within contested spaces. Results also indicate that a heavy reliance on pragmatic features may characterize technologized texts, ...
Nerve Transfers: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes

This article provides an update of the current strategies of motor and sensory nerve transfers for peripheral nerve lesions of the upper extremity. Indications, techniques, and outcomes are summarized for both well-established transfers used in the management of proximal and brachial plexus injuries as well as those more recently developed for more distal and isolated nerve injuries in the forearm and hand.
A lepidopteran aminoacylase (L-ACY-1) in Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) gut lumen hydrolyzes fatty acid–amino acid conjugates, elicitors of plant defense

Fatty acid-amino acid conjugates (FACs) have been identified in Lepidopteran larvae as elicitors of plant defenses. Plant responses include the production of primary defense compounds and induction of secondary defense strategies including attraction of parasitoid wasps. These elicitors are present despite fitness costs, suggesting that they are important for the larvae's survival. In order to exploit FAC-mediated plant defense responses in agricultural settings, an understanding of FAC purpose and metabolism is crucial. To clarify their role, enzymes involved in this metabolism are being investigated. In this work a previously undiscovered FAC hydrolase was purified from Heliothis virescens frass by liquid chromatography and PAGE techniques and was identified as an aminoacylase-like protein (L-ACY-1) using MALDI-ToF/ToF and Edman sequencing. The full length gene was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli and a polyclonal antibody against L-ACY-1 was made. L-ACY-1 was confirmed to be responsible for FAC hydrolysis activity through inhibition of N-linolenoyl-l-glutamine hydrolysis by titration with the polyclonal anti-L-ACY-1 antibody. L-ACY-1 activity is dependent on a divalent cation. This is the first time an aminoacylase has been described from an insect. L-ACY-1 appears to play a vastly different role in insects than ACYs do in mammals and may be involved in maintaining glutamine supplies for gut tissue metabolism. Identification of L-ACY-1, a FAC hydrolase, clarifies a previously uncharacterized portion of FAC metabolism.
Conal anatomy in 119 patients with d-loop transposition of the great arteries and ventricular septal defect: an echocardiographic and pathologic study.

Abstract Objectives. We sought to study the range of conal morphology in transposition of the great arteries with ventricular septal defect and their embryologic and surgical implications. Background. Conal anatomy in transposition of the great arteries aad ventricular septal defect is variable and might affect surgical repair. Methods. Conal anatomy was explored using two-dimensional echocardiography in 119 patients with transposition of the great arteries and a large ventricular septal defect who presented between 1984 and 1991. The influence of conal anatomy on surgical technique was determined by review of the operative reports. Specimens of transposition of the great arteries with unusual conal anatomy were selected from the Cardiac Registry for comparison with the echocardiograms. Results. One hundred five patients (88.2%) had subaortic conus only with no subpulmonary conns (Group 1). Subarterial conus was present bilaterally in eight patients (6.7%) (Group 2). Four patients (3.4%) had only subpulmonary conus with no (or minimal) subaortic conus (Group 3). Among these four patients, the aorta was posterior to the pulmonary artery in one patient, side by side relative to the pulmonary artery in two patients and slightly anterior in the fourth patient. Subarterial conus was absent bilaterally in two patients (1.7%) (Group 4); the aorta was slightly posterior in one and side by side with the pulmonary artery in the other. Conclusions. This variability of conal anatomy in transposition of the great arteries with ventricular septal defect implies four mechanisms by which transposition can occur. The conal anatomy appeared to affect surgical repair in Groups 1 and 2 insofar as it influenced ventricular outflow tract obstruction. In Groups 3 and 4, an arterial switch operation was performed in four of the six patients. The posterior location of the aorta obviated the need for the Lecompte maneuver in two of these four patients. In the remaining two cases in Groups 3 and 4, the condition was repaired by directing the left ventricular outflow across the ventricular septal defect to the aorta using a patch, with or without placement of a conduit from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.
Ionic diffusion in silica sol–gel glasses

Abstract Non-Fickian ionic diffusion in porous silica xerogel glasses was examined experimentally and modeled with a concentration-dependent diffusion coefficient. Smaller pore sizes resulted in a decreased diffusion rate, increased hysteresis, and greater dependence on the nature of other ionic species present. The pH-dependent non-Fickian diffusional dynamics within the porous matrix was attributed to pH-dependent chemistry of the silica surface species. Protonation of the silica surface was found to dramatically increase the rate of proton diffusion within the pores. The observed hysteresis was attributed to a competition between entry into pore openings versus transport within the porous network. Factors that affect ionic diffusion kinetics in nanoscale porous materials are relevant to chemical sensor and dopant delivery applications of porous silica materials.
Eight Was Not Enough

During the past year, a new editorial team including myself, Douglas Smith, Lindsey O'Brennan, and the editorial board have been working diligently to provide a smooth transition for Journal of Sch...
Cutaneous Waldenström's macroglobulinemia. A report of a case successfully treated with radiotherapy.

Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia is a lymphoproliferative disorder that only rarely exhibits specific cutaneous findings. The authors present a case of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia in which the patient developed cutaneous lesions while his systemic disease seemed to be under control with chlorambucil therapy. A review of the scant literature regarding the response of cutaneous Waldenstrom's to treatment suggests that the skin lesions do not respond well to systemic therapy. This case was successfully treated with radiotherapy.
The endoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocysts (with videos).

It is therefore considered as ﬁrst-line treatment.This review highlights the techniques used forendoscopic management of pseudocysts. It provides back-ground into the current deﬁnition and the indications forand timing of endoscopic intervention, and it describesthe various drainage techniques, adverse events, recom-mended before- and after-procedure management, andareas of uncertainty.
TiW/TiWN/Pt Ohmic Contacts to n -Type 3C-SiC

TiW(40 nm)/TiWN(80 nm)/Pt(500nm) was investigated as a new high-temperature compatible contact stack to 3C-SiC for harsh environment applications. Performance of TiW/TiWN/Pt contacts deposited on unintentionally doped (8.85×1018 cm−3) 3C-SiC grown by LPCVD to a thickness of ~1µm on (100) Si are reported. The linear transmission line method was used to determine specific contact resistance (ρc) at room temperature and for long-term tests at 300 °C. As deposited contacts were Ohmic with a ρc range of 1×10−4 to 1×10−3 Ωcm2. These contacts were annealed for five minutes in forming gas (8% H2 92% Ar), at temperatures from 450 to 950 °C and all retained Ohmic character. Annealing samples at 450, 550 and 950 °C decreased ρc while anneling between 650 and 850 °C generally increased ρc. Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) analysis was performed on a sample annealed at 750 °C. The as-received surface was composed of Si and O; after a brief sputter etch a characteristic Pt peak became visible and the O peak decreased substantially. Depth profiles detected Si throughout the Pt capping layer but not in the TiW layers. We suspect that Si diffuses from the SiC substrate into the Pt capping layer and surface Si also reacts with O2 to from an oxide. These reactions, in combination with incomplete SiC/TiW interface reactions, are suspected to cause the increase of ρc for samples annealed between 650 and 850 °C. Annealing at 950 °C gave the lowest contact resistance of 2.3×10−5. Long-term testing at 300 °C for 190 hours, in atmosphere, was performed on contacts annealed at 450 °C. When heated, the contacts initial ρc of 2.1×10−4 Ωcm2 increased to ~4×10−3 Ωcm2 which remained stable for the test duration. After long-term testing the sample ρc measured at room temperature decreased to 9.8×10−5 Ωcm2.
Amino and hydrazino alkyl benzoates as derivatizing agents for the separation and mass spectrometric analysis of oligosaccharides from bacterial lipooligosaccharides

In an attempt to develop more sensitive and versatile methods for the structure analysis of oligosaccharides derived from lipooligosaccharides (LOS) of gram-negative bacteria, amino and hydrazino alkyl benzoate derivatives were prepared. These oligosaccharide derivatives were separated by HPLC and then analyzed by liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry (LSIMS). Both the amino and hydrazino alkyl benzoates react with the free reducing termini of acid-treated LOS, increasing the hydrophobicity of the released oligosaccharides and allowing them to be separated by reverse-phase HPLC. In addition, these oligosaccharide derivatives now contain a sensitive uv chromophore for subsequent peak detection and improve the quality of the LSIMS spectra compared to underivatized oligosaccharides. However, the amino alkyl benzoates reacted poorly compared to the analogous hydrazino alkyl benzoates with 3-deoxy-manno-2-keto octulosonic acid (KDO), and oligosaccharides with KDO at the reducing terminus, especially when the oligosaccharide also contained phosphoethanolamine. Derivatization with the hydrazino compounds can be carried out quickly and under mild conditions using a minimal amount of reagent, and is therefore suitable for microscale analyses. The chromatographic and mass spectrometric characteristics of these derivatives make them excellent alternatives to permethylation and peracetylation techniques for the structural analysis of complex bacterial oligosaccharides derived from glycolipids.
Simultaneous synthesis and densification of TiC/Ni-Al composites

The process of combustion synthesis was used to produce ceramic-metal composite materials consisting of titanium carbide (TiC) and an intermetallic alloy of the Ni-Al system. The samples were produced by rapidly heating a mixture of elemental Ti, C, Ni, and Al powders in a graphite die up to the ignition temperature. By applying mechanical pressure during or immediately following the combustion reaction, products of greater than 99% theoretical density were obtained. The residual porosity and microstructural development were characterized using optical microscopy, and X-ray diffraction methods. The nature and composition of the product phases can be controlled by variations in the ratios of the starting reagents, level of mechanical pressure, addition of diluents, and the inclusion of dopants. By varying the combustion synthesis parameters, the properties of the product can be tailored to meet specific application needs. Apparent applications of such composites include cutting tools, wear parts, structural components, armour, etc.
Considering Bias in Government Audit Reports Factors That Influence the Judgments of Internal Government Auditors

Government auditors collect data and assess, via written reports, the operations of a government; however, little is known about what can affect and govern their representations of those operations. This analysis examines research studies about author bias and government audit manuals in order to understand how government auditors’ neutrality is threatened. While bias may be an overt function of preferential or prejudicial thoughts, most sources of bias that influence auditors derive from less explicit sources including prior expectations, media coverage, nondiagnostic information, and other significantly less direct channels. To determine how government guidelines address this issue for their auditors, the principle audit manuals for Canada and the United States were reviewed for their references to bias, impartiality, and objectivity. Neither manual provides a significant amount of guidance to assist auditors in addressing the problems of bias in data collection, interpretation, and representation. If bias is to be reduced in audit reports, more must be done.
Sequential biochemical events related to DNA replication in the regenerating rat liver.

Abstract The kinetic pattern of molecular events in the regenerating liver of rats was studied under closely controlled conditions to minimize deviation in the degree of synchronization. The activities of DNA polymerase (EC 2.7.7.7), thymidine kinase (EC 2.7.1.75) and ribonucleoside diphosphate reductase were increased several fold by partial hepatectomy; the latter two enzymes exhibited a biphasic pattern of induction coupled to the initial two cycles of nuclear DNA replication. A biphasic 45–60% maximal change in the template activity of chromatin for Escherichia coli RNA polymerase preceded by several hours each wave of DNA synthesis and enzyme induction. The results suggest that the changes in the template activity of chromatin and the activities of enzymes necessary to support DNA biosynthesis are sequential and related events which are tightly regulated in regenerating liver.
An experimental and numerical study of particle-laden coaxial jet flows

A detailed experimental and numerical study of the developing region of coaxial jet flows with and without glass beads is performed. A two-component phase/Doppler interferometer is used to measure mean and fluctuating velocity components for each phase and particle-number density. The numerical calculation is based on a stochastic Lagrangian treatment for the particles and a recently proposed two-equation turbulence model for two-phase flows. Results show that the particle-number density profile becomes narrower than the corresponding profile for round jet flow and that the particles attain a uniform velocity across the jet radius. The particles attenuate the level of gas turbulence and increase their anisotropy level. The numerical calculations yield reasonable and encouraging agreement with the measurements.
Interaction of zinc(II) and manganese(II) with hemoglobin

Abstract In bis-tris buffer, pH 7.3, ZnCl 2 (1.5 × 10 −3 M) increases the oxygen affinity of human adult hemoglobin (heme concentration 4 × 10 −5 M) by 43%. Using an ion-exchange method involving 65 Zn radioisotope, we have found that Zn(II) forms a 1:1 complex with carboxyhemoglobin: K f = 5.0 × 10 5 M −1 at room temperature. This strong binding of Zn(II) to hemoglobin is in line with the effect of the metal ion on oxygenation of hemoglobin. Mn(II) increases the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin only slightly below 25% oxygen saturation, and causes a decrease in oxygen affinity above 25% saturation (by 24 at 50% saturation). The binding of this metal ion with hemoglobin is much weaker than that found for zinc ion.
Progression age enhanced backward bifurcation in an epidemic model with super-infection

We consider a model for a disease with a progressing and a quiescent exposed class and variable susceptibility to super-infection. The model exhibits backward bifurcations under certain conditions, which allow for both stable and unstable endemic states when the basic reproduction number is smaller than one.
Clutch size in parasitoids: the egg production rate as a constraint

In many species of insect parasitoids, adult females mature eggs as they search their environment for hosts. In such species, the number of mature eggs, at the point of finding a host, is a function of the interhost time and the rate of egg maturation. Assuming that interhost search times are variable, we use a version of the marginal value theorem to derive a decision rule for optimizing the time spent exploiting individual hosts; this indirectly determines clutch size. We find that a threshold search time exists above which a female should simply lay her currently mature eggs and depart from the host. However, when the search time has been less than the threshold, a female should oviposit, but then remain on the host to mature and lay additional eggs, until the threshold time is reached.
The Problem Patron and the Academic Library Web Site as Virtual Reference Desk

Summary Emerging technologies continue to offer librarians new opportunities to improve user services. Comment and query links on some library web pages are absorbing a significant share of the customer service workload previously handled by traditional reference desks. Fa miliar types of patron problems of course continue to crop up at the “vir tual reference desk.” New and different aspects of patron problems also appear. Originating with the experiences of a research university li brary's web group in dealing with incoming user messages, this study examines the challenges as well as advantages of dealing with “problem patron” phenomena in a virtual environment.
Diabatic States of Molecules- Quasistationary Electronic States

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on diabatic states of molecules. Quasi-stationary state representation is proposed as a general definition of the diubutic or collisional electronic states of molecules, diatomic, and polyatomic. The identification of the single configuration diabatic states that seem to be followed by atoms colliding in nature appears to be an important step in understanding atomic collisions. Because an electron taken far away from the residual core sees the screened charge of a neutral system rather than an attractive Coulomb field, there are no Rydberg states for negative systems.
Intra-plate seismicity gap along the Median Tectonic Line and oblique plate convergence in southwest Japan

Abstract The intra-plate seismicity map for southwest Japan, based on fairly complete historical data for the past four hundred years, reveals an inverse correlation between the seismic activity along the island arc and the slip-rate along the Median Tectonic Line during the Late Quaternary. In the eastern part, the tectonic line is geologically inactive but regional historic seismicity has been high. The intra-plate seismic activity is probably related with the well developed mosaic-like conjugate system of strike-slip faults there. Conversely, the historic seismicity has been low in the western part, especially low in an area along the most geologically active segment of the Median Tectonic Line. Since no creep movement has been found there, energy greater than that of the Mino-Owari earthquake of 1891 ( M = 8.0) seems to be stored in this seismicity gap. The difference in seismic released energy between the two regions for the last four hundred years would be balanced by the strain energy accumulated in the seismic gap. The fairly uniform strain release is conformable to the idea, proposed on the basis of the trend of maximum compression axes, that the Philippine Sea plate is dragging southwest Japan southwestward along the Nankai trough.
Electrochemical immunosensor for label free epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) detection.

Abstract This paper presents an electrochemical immune sensor for label free detection of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by immobilizing anti-EGFR antibody (Anti-EGFRab) on dithiobissuccinimidyl propionate (DTSP) self-assembled monolayer (SAM) on gold (Au) electrode. Electrochemical studies show that increased surface concentration of redox moieties onto Anti-EGFRab/DTSP immuno-electrode leads to high electron transport and improved sensing performance. The antigen–antibody complex demonstrates a high association constant (5×10 12 L/mol) that results in high affinity of Anti-EGFRab to EGFR, confirming that the DTSP–SAM provides a conducive environment for anti-EGFR immobilization. The electrochemical response of EA/Anti-EGFRab/DTSP/Au electrode as a function of EGFR concentrations exhibits a linear range from 1 pg/mL to 100 ng/mL, a detection limit of 1 pg/mL at a sensitivity of 2.02 μA M −1 at a regression coefficient of 0.99.