cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
To shape a cell: an inquiry into the causes of morphogenesis of microorganisms.

We recognize organisms first and foremost by their forms, but how they grow and shape themselves still largely passes understanding. The objective of this article is to survey what has been learned of morphogenesis of walled eucaryotic microorganisms as a set of problems in cellular heredity, biochemistry, physiology, and organization. Despite the diversity of microbial forms and habits, some common principles can be discerned. (i) That the form of each organism represents the expression of a genetic program is almost universally taken for granted. However, reflection on the findings with morphologically aberrant mutants suggests that the metaphor of a genetic program is misleading. Cellular form is generated by a web of interacting chemical and physical processes, whose every strand is woven of multiple gene products. The relationship between genes and form is indirect and cumulative; therefore, morphogenesis must be addressed as a problem not of molecular genetics but of cellular physiology. (ii) The shape of walled cells is determined by the manner in which the wall is laid down during growth and development. Turgor pressure commonly, perhaps always, supplies the driving force for surface enlargement. Cells yield to this scalar force by localized, controlled wall synthesis; their forms represent variations on the theme of local compliance with global force. (iii) Growth and division in bacteria display most immediately the interplay of hydrostatic pressure, localized wall synthesis, and structural constraints. Koch9s surface stress theory provides a comprehensive and quantitative framework for understanding bacterial shapes. (iv) In the larger and more versatile eucaryotic cells, expansion is mediated by the secretion of vesicles. Secretion and ancillary processes, such as cytoplasmic transport, are spatially organized on the micrometer scale. The diversity of vectorial physiology and of the forms it generates is illustrated by examples: apical growth of fungal hyphae, bud formation in yeasts, germination of fucoid zygotes, and development of cells of Nitella, Closterium, and other unicellular algae. (v) Unicellular organisms, no less than embryos, have a remarkable capacity to impose spatial order upon themselves with or without the help of directional cues. Self-organization is reviewed here from two perspectives: the theoretical exploration of morphogens, gradients, and fields, and experimental study of polarization in Fucus cells, extension of hyphal tips, and pattern formation in ciliates. Here is the heart of the matter, yet self-organization remains nearly as mysterious as it was a century ago, a subject in search of a paradigm. Images
Gender differences in the self-assessment of surgical residents

Abstract Background Despite equivalent performance as assessed by objective external measures, women tend to underestimate their abilities compared with their male counterparts. Methods The difference in ordinal values from faculty and resident self-evaluations was calculated for each general and plastic surgery resident. Objective external performance measures were compared for female and male residents. Results Male and female residents performed equivalently. All residents underestimated their abilities compared with faculty assessment; however, general surgery residents did so to a greater degree (P Conclusions Although female resident surgeons are generally confident in their abilities, this may be in contrast to the self-perception of many female medical students. Consideration of gender differences in self-perception may be important when providing feedback to female students and residents.
Monolithic detector array comprised of >1000 aerial image sensing elements

A monolithically integrated multi-element photodiode array with 7749 discrete detectors has been fabricated where each sensing element is equipped with a sampling aperture to allow for aerial image measurements with high spatial precision in the focal plane of lithographic lenses. As currently configured, any one of seven 1107-element linear arrays can be used at a given time to allow sampling across the long axis of a scanner lens. The individual elements are located 24 microns apart and are broken down into 27 sets of 41 distinctly different aperture types, with each set spaced 1 mm apart. In addition, the sampling apertures on the device are small enough to allow the device to act as a polarization sensor with high (<50 microns) spatial resolution. The high speed analog output amplifier allows for complete 1107-element images to be obtained at the full repetition rate of lithographic lasers (2KHz).
Gastric dysregulation induced by microinjection of 6-OHDA in the substantia nigra pars compacta of rats is determined by alterations in the brain-gut axis

Idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) is a late-onset, chronic, and progressive motor dysfunction attributable to loss of nigrostriatal dopamine neurons. Patients with PD experience significant gastrointestinal (GI) issues, including gastroparesis. We aimed to evaluate whether 6-hydroxy-dopamine (6-OHDA)-induced degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) induces gastric dysmotility via dysfunctions of the brain-gut axis. 6-OHDA microinjection into the SNpc induced a >90% decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactivity (IR) on the injection site. The [13C]-octanoic acid breath test showed a delayed gastric emptying 4 wk after the 6-OHDA treatment. In control rats, microinjection of the indirect sympathomimetic, tyramine, in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) decreased gastric tone and motility; this inhibition was prevented by the fourth ventricular application of either a combination of α1- and α2- or a combination of D1 and D2 receptor antagonists. Conversely, in 6-OHDA-treated rats, whereas DVC microinjection of tyramine had reduced effects on gastric tone or motility, DVC microinjection of thyrotropin-releasing hormone induced a similar increase in motility as in control rats. In 6-OHDA-treated rats, there was a decreased expression of choline acetyl transferase (ChAT)-IR and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-IR in DVC neurons but an increase in dopamine-β-hydroxylase-IR in the A2 area. Within the myenteric plexus of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, there were no changes in the total number of neurons; however, the percentage of NOS-IR neurons increased, whereas that of ChAT-IR decreased. Our data suggest that the delayed gastric emptying in a 6-OHDA rat model of PD may be caused by neurochemical and neurophysiological alterations in the brain-gut axis.
A comparison of budgetary control systems in American and Japanese manufacturing firms

This article examines and compares some variables considered important in budgetary preparation and performance evaluation by American and Japanese executives of manufacturing firms. The literature asserts that American executives employ management styles and performance evaluation criteria that tend to overemphasise short-term goals, while Japanese executives prefer management philosophy and performance evaluation criteria that emphasise long-term goals. The survey research method is employed to gather evidence to test hypotheses pertaining to such an assertion. The research results provide empirical evidence that supports most of the assertions in the literature.
Characterization of abundant messenger RNAs ofNeurospora crassa byin vitro translation

Polyadenylated RNA and non-polyadenylated RNA ofNeurospora crassa have been studied byin vitro translation. All abundant messenger RNAs, as reflected in the pattern of proteins synthesizedin vitro, were found to be fully represented in the polysomal polyadenylated RNA. No unique proteins were synthesized only from non-polyadenylated RNA or from cytoplasmic RNA. The pattern of approximately 15 abundant proteins detected byin vitro translation corresponded to those proteins labeled in vivo and also to the major cytoplasmic proteins visualized by staining.In vitro translation of mRNA isolated from sulfur-limited, wild-type cells revealed a new protein which was not present in the control pattern. Moreover, mRNA from thecys-3 regulatory mutant, defective in the synthesis of a family of S-related enzymes, failed to direct synthesis of this same protein. These results suggest that the synthesis of this presumed sulfur-related protein is regulated at the transcriptional level.
A Cross-Cultural Test of the Two-Part Typology of Humor:

Ten humorous television advertisements were shown to 44 Finnish and 68 American university students to investigate whether Freud's two-part humor typology (tendencious/nontendencious) adequately represented the perceptions of both nationalities. Confirmatory factor analysis did not confirm the two-type structure for either nationality, and subsequent exploratory factor analysis indicated different humor perceptions for Finns and Americans Second-order factor analysis yielded an aggressive and a nonsense factor, which suggests that the more reductive two-part structure may exist across cultures.
Translational research: are we on the right track?

It is a great honor and privilege to stand before you today to deliver the 2008 American Society of Clinical Investigation Presidential Address. I have chosen a controversial topic — and one that I know intimately — that challenges the standard operating procedures of our profession at many levels. While no one will object to the goal of applying basic biomedical research insights to clinical medicine, we can certainly debate the methods by which we encourage this process. Translational medicine has rapidly emerged as the rallying cry for many stakeholders in biomedical research, most notably the Congress and the public, who rightfully want to hold us accountable for their investment of taxpayer dollars into our enterprise. Major funding sources have channeled significant portions of their budgets into new translational research programs, many of which prescribe specific projects and even link delivery of resources to completion of defined milestones. Is this the best way to ensure bench-to-bedside science? Can translational research be directed from headquarters?
Open- and Closed-Loop Supply Chain Dynamics: Specification and Exploration of an Agent-based Model

We develop an inter-firm shipping pallet supply chain model and explore the geographic features of market structures that can evolve within it, focusing on the common resource nature of pallet durability. While exploring the model's parameter space we find regions in which the outcomes do not put the model's assumptions in doubt. The insights reveal modeling considerations for an “open-loop” structure, where the shipping pallets received by retailers pass through third parties before returning to manufacturers. Our approach to validation is at the level of “stylized facts,” accepting model parameters that produce outcomes matching characteristics of firms’ geographic location.
A Time-Sampling and Amplitude-Quantizing Tube

The possibility of a saving of bandwidth- or of transmitting additional information in a given bandwidth-by means of amplitude quantizing and time sampling is reviewed. The requirements on a tube to simultaneously time sample and quantize a video input, and to produce a residue output, are outlined. Beam deflection-type tubes were successfully built and tested which perform all of these functions. They will change a continuous signal into a quantized signal having six discrete amplitude levels. The signal may also be simultaneously sampled as often as ten million times per second. A residue signal is also generated. The tube response is sufficiently accurate to meet the requirements of the system outlined. The stability of operation is such that after initial setup no critical operating conditions or adjustments are involved. Two types of output structure have been used, both of which permit the external adjustment of the output amplitude levels. The tube operates with an anode voltage of 300 volts. While the maximum operating beam current is only 55 microamperes, the signal-to-noise ratio of the tube is computed to be 55 db.
Sublethal responses to endrin in sediment by Stylodrilus heringianus (Lumbriculidae) as measured by a 137cesium marker layer technique

Abstract Sediment reworking rates of Stylodrilus heringianus (Oligochaeta: Lumbriculidae) were measured in microcosms containing sediments dosed with the chlorinated pesticide, endrin. Reworking rates were measured at 10°C by monitoring a 137cesium marker layer burial in contaminated and uncontaminated microcosms. Endrin concentrations ranged from 3.1 to 42 000 ng/g dry sediment. Alterations in reworking rates were observed at sediment concentrations five and one half orders of magnitude below the LC50 (1 650 μg/g). For the lower concentrations, marker layer burial rate data suggested possible stimulatory effects in the first 300 to 600 h, followed by significant rate decreases relative to controls. For higher concentrations, rates were equal to or slower than control rates in the first 600 h, followed by dramatic decreases in the last 600 h. High final surficial sediment endrin concentrations at the end of experiments implied worm mediated upward transport. Worm mortalities were 9.3 to 28% for the two highest concentrations (42 000 and 11 500 ng/g) and 0 to 6.7% for all other concentrations including controls. Post experimental worm dry weights were inversely related to high concentrations. Bioaccumulation factors ranged from 34 to 67 on a g dry organism to g dry sediment basis.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of prednisone and prednisolone in healthy volunteers and patients: A review

Limited information is available on the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of prednisone and prednisolone in patients with different disease states. This is partly due to difficulty in measuring these drugs in biological fluids at the usual dosages prescribed to patients. This article attempts to comprehensively review these studies categorized under the following four sections: (1) bioavailability—healthy volunteers, patients with respiratory disease, patients with liver disease, patients with kidney disease, pediatric patients with various diseases, effect of antacids, effect of food, effect of other drugs (aminophylline, cholestyramine); (2) pharmacokinetics—healthy volunteers, patients with respiratory disease, patients with liver disease, patients with kidney disease, pediatric patients with various diseases, effect of other drugs, enzyme induction of steroids and the effect on the kinetics of steroids and other drugs; (3) protein binding; and (4) analytical methods. The literature is reviewed through August 1979.
Effects of Coke and Formulation Variables on Fracture of Bench Scale Prebaked Anodes for Aluminum Smelting

Bench scale anodes were prepared using a number of calcined cokes, aggregate sizings, and pitch levels and tested for thermal shock resistance and flexural strength. Thermal shock resistance rose with increasing coke real density, while flexural strength tended to improve with increasing coke bulk density. With coarser aggregate sizings, a pitch level resulting in maximum baked apparent density maximized thermal shock resistance and flexural strength. With a finer aggregate sizing, thermal shock resistance and flexural strength peaked at a pitch level greater than that producing the highest baked apparent density, so maximum values require more pitch than probably practical for full-size anodes.
Biomechanical tissue characterization of the superior joint space of the porcine temporomandibular joint.

The objective of this study was to characterize the biomechanical properties of articular cartilage in the superior joint space of the porcine temporomadibular joint (TMJ). These properties and thickness of the disk and fossa cartilage were obtained from eight joints using creep indentation. Five sites per surface were tested to obtain the aggregate modulus, Poisson's ratio, permeability, creep, recovery percentage, and cartilage thickness. Histology was also performed to characterize the orientation of the collagen fibers and the proteoglycan content. It was found that the temporal fossa cartilage was 57% thinner and 50% stiffer than the disk. The aggregate modulus of the porcine TMJ disk and fossa was much smaller, but the permeability of the TMJ disk and fossa was much higher than those of articular cartilage in other joints. It was also noted that the TMJ disk did not fully recover following indentation testing unlike the articular cartilage in other joints. The biomechanical properties of the TMJ disk and temporal fossa obtained in this study are significantly different from those of cartilage present in other diarthrodial joints. This suggests that the function of the fibrocartilage in the superior TMJ space is substantially different from that of hyaline cartilage in other joints. © 2003 Biomedical Engineering Society. PAC2003: 8719Rr, 8719Ff
Improving Cyber Resiliency of Cloud Application Services by Applying Software Behavior Encryption (SBE)

Abstract The objective of this work is to define and measure cyber resiliency of the “cloud” in a Moving Target Defense (MTD) environment that applies the Software Behavior Encryption (SBE) method. Implementation of SBE has shown to increase vulnerability tolerance in a particular software system by introducing software diversity and redundant version shuffling to obfuscate the system to attackers. With this in mind, this paper nominates attack surface, confidentiality, integrity, availability, and survivability as the critical components of cyber resiliency, and a notional example is provided to demonstrate the components application and aggregation.
Color Blindness, Perceptual Interference, and Hypnosis

Abstract Forty-eight hypnotizable subjects, all capable of achieving the criterion of amnesia for a five-digit number, were divided into three groups: hypnosis, pretend-hypnosis, and waking. On the color-naming section of the Stroop Color and Word Test, the distribution of correct responses for color-blind performance of these groups was compared with the theoretical chance distribution of correct responses expected of truly color-blind subjects. The hypnosis group differed significantly from the theoretical distribution, while the pretend group did not differ significantly from the chance distribution. On the interference section of the Stroop, the number of correct responses did not differ significantly between groups.
Phosphatidylethanolamine and Monoglucosyldiacylglycerol Are Interchangeable in Supporting Topogenesis and Function of the Polytopic Membrane Protein Lactose Permease

To determine the specific role lipids play in membrane protein topogenesis in vivo, the orientation with respect to the membrane bilayer of Escherichia coli lactose permease (LacY) transmembrane (TM) domains and their flanking extramembrane domains was compared after assembly in native membranes and membranes with genetically modified lipid content using the substituted cysteine accessibility method for determining TM domain mapping. LacY assembled in the absence of the major membrane lipid phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) does not carry out uphill transport of substrate and displays an inverted orientation for the N-terminal six-TM domain helical bundle (Bogdanov, M., Heacock, P. N., and Dowhan, W. (2002) EMBO J. 21, 2107-2116). Strikingly, the replacement of PE in vivo by the foreign lipid monoglucosyldiacylglycerol (MGlcDAG), synthesized by the Acholeplasma laidlawii MGlcDAG synthase, restored uphill transport and supported the wild type TM topology of the N-terminal helical bundle of LacY. An interchangeable role in defining membrane protein TM domain orientation and supporting function is played by the two most abundant lipids, PE and MGlcDAG, in gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, respectively. Therefore, these structurally diverse lipids endow the membrane with similar properties necessary for the proper organization of protein domains in LacY that are highly sensitive to lipids as topological determinants.
Technology: Its Role in Our Conception of Glaucoma: The 35th Mark J. Schoenberg Lecture

Glaucoma is a medical notion encompassing many diverse entities. Our present conception of glaucoma is rooted in four major technological innovations: ophthalmoscopy, tonometry, perimetry, and gonioscopy. The results of our findings from these modalities determine how we diagnose and plan management strategies. In essence, we are bound to a series of numbers or values useful in clinical practice but which tell us little about the pathogenetic factor(s) causing glaucoma.
Minimal and consistent evolution of knowledge bases

ABSTRACT This work presents efficient algorithms to update knowledge bases in the presence of integrity constraints. The algorithms ensure that the changes to the knowledge bases are minimal. We use the deductive database paradigm to represent knowledge. Minimality is defined as a natural partial order over possible models of the database and expresses a preference for data explicity stored in the database over the data deduced by default. This requirement seems rational for many applications and yet it is hard to be expressed with a set of integrity constraints. We handle safe negation and local variables in the bodies of the rules. We tackle the issue of modifying the active domain (i.e. adding new constants or removing some of the constants which are present in the knowledge base), and we demonstrate how interaction with the user can be used to handle recursive definitions.
Alkaloid chemotaxonomy of the genus Sophora

Cytisine and matrine alkaloids detected in Sophora species have been used to classify the genus chemotaxonomically.
The reaction of 1-hydrazinophthalazine with phthalaldehydic acid. Occurrence of ring-chain tautomers†

A reaction involving 1-hydrazinophthalazine (hydralazine, 1)designed to give a condensed heterocyclic system in which an eight membered ring is fused to phthalazine was investigated. With phthalaldehydic acid (2) the expected system was obtained. However, it occurs as an easily convertible mixture of ring-chain tautomers. It was found that the course of the reaction depends on the solvent. Thus, 6,7-dihydro-7-hydroxy-12H-phthalazino[2,1-b][2,4]benzodiazocin-12-one (5) and 2-(2-formylbenzoyl)-1-hydrazono-1,2-dihydrophthalazine (6) were the products of the reaction of 1 with 2 in aqueous medium. Upon prolonged standing this mixture converts into 3-(2-carboxyphenyl)-s-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazine (8). In contrast, the isomeric ring-chain tautomers 2-(1-aminophthalazino)-3-hydroxy-1-oxoisoindole (12) and 1-[2-(2-formylbenzoyl)hydrazino]phthalazine (13) were formed when the reaction was run in ethanol as solvent.
Functional dental rehabilitation of massive palatomaxillary defects: Cases requiring free tissue transfer and osseointegrated implants

Background Mandibular reconstruction with functional dental rehabilitation using a free tissue transfer bone flap as the substrate for osseointegrated implant-borne or implant-retained dental prostheses is well described. Similar use of these techniques in maxillary dental rehabilitation is less frequent and has received less attention in the literature. However, in selected cases of extensive composite defects of the maxilla, free tissue transfer reconstruction of the maxillary arch and the use of implant-borne or implant-retained dental prostheses is the only satisfactory method of achieving functional dental rehabilitation. Methods Three cases of maxillary reconstruction and dental rehabilitation using free tissue transfer with implant-borne or implant-retained prostheses are presented. Patient selection, reconstructive technique, and the biomechanical considerations in maxillary dental rehabilitation of large palatomaxillary defects are presented. Results The patients in this report were restored to full maxillary dental functioning. One implant of 17 implants placed in free flap bone was lost due to failure of osseointegration; 94% of the implants placed are stable an average of 18 months after dental rehabilitation was complete. Conclusions In selected patients with extensive palatomaxillary defects due to ablative surgery or trauma, the use of free tissue transfer and osseointegrated implant-borne or implant-retained dentures may be the only method possible to restore maxillary dental function. Dental rehabilitation of large maxillary defects presents a number of biomechanical challenges which must be clearly understood and overcome to achieve a long-term, functional dental rehabilitation. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck20: 38–51, 1998.
Pathways of thyroidal phosphorus metabolism: the effect of pituitary thyrotropin upon the phospholipids of the sheep thyroid gland.

IN THIS laboratory, several hypothetical considerations have prompted a sustaining inquiry into the intermediate metabolism of thyroid tissue. First, since hormonal biosynthesis may be delimited by intrathyroidal energy metabolism (1, 2, 3), the implications for thyroidal disease mechanisms are obvious. Secondly, since the preformed stores of thyroid hormone confer a unique “hyperthyroxinosis” upon thyroid tissue (4, 5, 6), it is tempting to speculate that the studies may aid in the elucidation of thyroid hormone action. Finally, since the multiple effects of pituitary thyrotropin (TSH) upon thyroid tissue have not been explained satisfactorily, it is hoped that such investigations may disclose a unifocal biochemical site of TSH action to which the other phenomena are related secondarily. In the preceding communication (7), the phospholipids and the watersoluble phospholipid intermediates of sheep thyroid tissue have been identified and their metabolic relationships have been characterized in vitro by new...
Carbon–sulfur bond cleavage and reduction of thiols and dithioethers under oxidative conditions

The reaction with hydrogen peroxide serves to cleave the carbon–sulfur bond and generate formally reduced products from certain thiols and dithioethers. The peroxide can be generated in situ from dioxygen using a supported palladium catalyst in the presence of a coreductant, either carbon monoxide or dihydrogen. The use of in situ generated oxidant provides a significant selectivity advantage compared to using a hydrogen peroxide solution. The reaction to form the reduced products is unique to compounds with a carboxylic group α to the carbon–sulfur bond.
Multimedia computer-assisted instruction in cardiology.

Background: Medical education faces problems caused by increasing restraints on resources. A multicenter consortium combined simulation and multimedia computer-assisted instruction (MCAI) to develop unique interactive teaching programs that can address a number of these problems. We describe the consortium, the MCAI system, the programs, and a multicenter evaluation of technical and educational performance. Methods: The MCAI system uses computer-controlled access to full-screen, full-motion, and full-color laser disc video in combination with digitized sound, images, and graphics stored on removable media. The Socratic teaching method enhances interaction and guides learners through the patient's history, cardiovascular physical examination, laboratory evaluation, and therapy. Self-instruction and instructor-led modes of function are possible. The first five programs, based on simulations of specific cardiology problems, were distributed to four medical centers. Questionnaires evaluated technical function and medical student opinions, while behaviors and scores were automatically tracked and tabulated by program administration software. Results: The MCAI system functioned reliably and accurately in all modes and at all sites. The programs were highly rated. Student ratings, scores, and behaviors were independent of institution and mode of use. Conclusion: A multicenter educational consortium developed a system to produce unique, sophisticated MCAI programs in cardiology. Both system and programs functioned reliably at four institutions and were highly rated by fourth-year medical students. With this enthusiastic reception, the economies and strengths associated with MCAI make it an attractive solution to a number of problem areas, and it will likely play an increasingly important role. (Arch Intern Med. 1995;155:197-203)
Candidate interstellar molecules formed from ion-molecule reactions of NO

Molecular orbital calculations using the MINDO/3 method were performed on a series of small molecules to explore reactions of NO which could lead to formation of interstellar molecules. Specifically, equilibrium geometries, isomeric energies, heats of reactions, and reaction pathways were calculated for plausible ion-molecule reactions involving NO and NO(+). The results of these calculations suggest that HNO(+) and HON(+) could be present in observable abundance in interstellar clouds. These species can be formed by the reaction of NO with H3(+) but not by NO(+) with H2. Moreover, they are stable to dissociation and do not react with H2 to re-form NO or to form isomers of HNOH(+).
Predictive distance-based mobility management for PCS networks

This paper presents a mobile tracking scheme that exploits the predictability of user mobility patterns in wireless PCS networks. Instead of the constant velocity fluid-flow or the random-walk mobility model, a more realistic Gauss-Markov model is introduced, where a mobile's velocity is correlated in time to a various degree. Based on the Gauss-Markov model, a mobile's future location is predicted by the network based on the information gathered from the mobile's last report of location and velocity. When a call is made, the network pages the destination mobile at and around the predicted location of the mobile and in the order of descending probability until the mobile is found. A mobile shares the same prediction information with the network and reports its new location whenever it reaches some threshold distance away from the predicted location. We describe an analytical framework to evaluate the cost of mobility management for the proposed predictive distance-based scheme. We then compare this cost against that of the regular, non-predictive distance-based scheme, which is obtained through simulations. Performance advantage of the proposed scheme is demonstrated under various mobility and call patterns, update cost, page cost, and frequencies of mobile location inspections.
Toward a Neurodevelopmental Model of Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder

Abstract Background: Neurobiological models for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) have consistently implicated ventral prefrontal cortical and striatal circuits in the pathophysiology of this disorder, but typically have not utilized a developmental framework for conceptualizing the illness. Methods: We describe an integrated series of neurobiologic studies aimed at testing the hypothesis that neurodevelopmental abnormalities of ventral prefrontal–striatal circuits may be involved in and contribute to the etiology and presentation of the illness. Results: Using studies of oculomotor physiology, we have identified a selective deficit in neurobehavioral response suppression in OCD that may be related to failures in the developmental maturation of frontostriatal circuitry. Magnetic resonance imaging studies showed that treatment-naive pediatric OCD patients had significant volumetric abnormalities in ventral prefrontal cortical and striatal regions but no abnormalities in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Severity of OCD symptoms but not illness duration was related to ventral prefrontal cortical and striatal volumes. Conclusions: Critical neurodevelopmental changes in ventral prefrontal–striatal circuitry may be associated with the initial presentation of OCD, and a developmentally mediated network dysplasia may underlie OCD. Such dysplasia in ventral prefrontal cortical circuits could manifest clinically by disrupting brain functions that mediate ongoing purposive behaviors.
Use of vascular closure device is safe and effective in electrophysiological procedures

Purpose Little is known about the usefulness and safety of vascular closure devices (VCDs) in electrophysiological procedures. We present a retrospective analysis of our experience assessingtheutilityandoutcomesofcollagenvascularclosure device (Angioseal) in patients that required periprocedural anticoagulation and multiple vascular access sites. Methods An retrospective chart review of patients who have undergone the deployment of VCD following electrophysiological procedures. Results In 26 patients (16 males, age 57±15 years, weight 96 ±21 kg), a total of 76 VCD were deployed. Seventy-three VCDs in femoral veins (right or left) and three in femoral artery. The mean number of VCD per patient was 3 (range, 2–4). VCD was successfully deployed in 75 out of 76 access sites.Onepatientwasnotedtohaveecchymosisinbothgroins during follow-up visit. No other complications were noted. Conclusions We provide evidence that a collagen plug-based VCD designed for arterial closure can be safely and effectively used to close multiple venous accesses even in the same vein. This can be accomplished with a venotomy size up to 2 Fr larger than the size of the closure device.
Is there a risk to contacts of patients with rabies

The number of persons in the United States potentially in contact with rabid humans has increased in recent years because of labor-intensive medical care, longer survival times, and care in two or more hospitals. Many of these persons request rabies prophylaxis, and their physicians prescribe it because of their insecurity, a situation that is expensive and often unnecessary. Records of the Centers for Disease Control and the literature were reviewed to examine the current practice of prophylaxis of contacts and the actual need for it. Rabies virus is present in a variety of human fluids and tissues during the first five weeks of illness, but there are only four well-documented reports of human-to-human transmission--all in corneal transplant recipients. Prophylaxis of contacts of 14 rabid patients was predominantly for saliva exposure to open wounds or mucous membranes and was given most often to medical personnel having the greatest contact with the patient. Although it has never been documented, human-to-human transmission of rabies following saliva exposure remains a theoretical possibility. Virus shedding by rabid patients should be studied thoroughly in the future. Recommendations for managing contacts of rabid patients are presented.
Epidemic viral pneumonia and other emerging pathogens

Viruses cause a high percentage of community-acquired pneumonias. The advent of polymerase chain reaction and other molecular techniques has been associated with the detection of a higher prevalence of common respiratory viruses than previously suspected. Better diagnostics have shown new viral pathogens regularly in epidemics, immunocompromised patients, and occasionally children. Despite better diagnostics, treatment for all but influenza is still very limited.
The isomeric decay of 73Se

Abstract The energy of the isomeric transition in 73m Se was measured as25.71 ± 0.04 keV with a double-focussing beta-ray spectrometer. From the L/K conversion electron ratio a unique E3 multipole assignment can be made. From coincidence experiments between L conversion electrons and the low-energy gamma-ray spectrum it is concluded that no gamma-ray transition occurs in cascade with the isomeric decay.
Research Note---Competitive Bundling and Counterbundling with Generalist and Specialist Firms

Bundling, which is the practice of selling two or more products or services in a package, is a pervasive marketing practice and is often used as a strategic competitive tool. However, there has not been enough consideration of competitive bundling situations in which exit of a competitor is not a concern. In this paper, we address this issue by identifying conditions under which strategic competitors may or may not resort to bundling when competitor exit considerations are absent. We study competition between a multiproduct generalist firm and two single-product specialist firms in two product categories, one of which has undifferentiated products and the other has differentiated products. In our model, the specialist firms can form an alliance to bundle their products in competing with the generalist firm. In contrast to the previous literature, we find that concurrent bundling by competitors, if it occurs in equilibrium, is profitable. We also find that when one competitor bundles and the other does not, the bundling firm gains a greater share of customers and makes a higher profit. However, when conditions favor counterbundling by a competitor, such counterbundling helps the competitor retain its customers. Finally, we note that under other market conditions, concurrent bundling by competitors escalates price competition to the extent that retaining customers through bundling is not profitable. In such a case, we show that strategic competitors are better off having asymmetric product lines with one competitor bundling and the other selling unbundled.
An all-metallic microburner for a millimeter-scale thermophotovoltaic generator

Thermophotovoltaics (TPVs) is the conversion of heat to electricity via the thermal emission of photons and their subsequent absorption and conversion to electricity by infrared photovoltaic cells. One of the key challenges is designing a robust microburner with an integrated selective emitter—and having the system operate at 1000°C for thousands of hours. Previous attempts at TPV system demonstrations tend to be large, inefficient, and have limited lifetimes. Here we present a novel all metallic microburner design and experimental results in the context of a proposed small, robust, and efficient TPV generator. Fabricated entirely by machining and welding, the microburner is comprised of a serpentine channel in a 20 × 20 mm slab of Inconel with inlet and outlet capillaries that double as mechanical supports. The microburner has a thermal power input of 50 to 100 W and reaches temperatures of 700 to 1100°C. The metallic microburner is robust under high temperature operation and a 2D tantalum photonic crystal can be attached by welding for high fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiency. We characterized the microburner's exhaust composition and temperature distribution which matched well with CFD simulations. We operated the microburner at 60 W of input power (reaching about 1000°C) for 135 hours before it failed.
Biomechanical comparison of three fixation techniques used for four-corner arthrodesis:

Clinical results following four-corner arthrodesis vary and suggest that nonunion may be related to certain fixation techniques. The purpose of our study was to examine the displacement between the lunate and capitate following a simulated four-corner arthrodesis with the hypothesis that three types of fixation (Kirschner wires, dorsal circular plate, and a locked dorsal circular plate) would allow different amounts of displacement during simulated wrist flexion and extension. Cadaver wrists with simulated four-corner arthrodeses were loaded cyclically either to implant failure or until the lunocapitate displacement exceeded 1 mm. The locked dorsal circular plate group was significantly more stable than the dorsal circular plate and K-wire groups (p = 0.018 and p = 0.006). While these locked dorsal circular plates appear to be very stable our results are limited only to the biomechanical behavior of these fixation techniques within a cadaver model.
Differentiation of membrane systems during development of slow and fast skeletal muscle fibres in chicken.

The disposition of transverse (T) tubules, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and T-SR junctions (triads) and the width of Z lines are matched to contractile properties in adult muscle fibres. We have studied the development of the membrane systems in the slow anterior (ALD) and the fast posterior (PLD) latissimus dorsi of the chicken in ovo (E14–E21) and after hatching (D1–D30). T tubules, SR, triads and Z lines were visualized using DiIC16[3] labelling for confocal microscopy and either Ca-osmium-ferrocyanide or standard procedures for electron microscopy. Anterior latissimus dorsi and PLD have similar, slow twitches in early development (E14–E16), but PLD suddenly becomes faster starting at E17–E18. We find that in coincidence with the differentiation of faster contraction properties (starting at E18–E19) density of triads is significantly higher and width of Z lines is narrower in PLD. The SR also begins to acquire fibre-type specific characteristics at this time. Early development of T tubules, on the other hand, is quite similar in the two muscles. Peripherally-located, longitudinally-oriented T tubules, and the first T networks crossing the fibre center appear earlier in ALD (E14–E15 and E16) than in PLD (E14–E16 and E17), but have similar dispositions. The final fibre-type specific distribution of T tubules is achieved after hatching. Some T tubules-rich fibres in the ALD, presumably future fast fibres, develop extensive T tubule networks at early stages. Location of triads at the Z line in pectoralis occurs in three steps: an initial location of longitudinally oriented triads at the A-I junction; a subsequent move to the Z lines and finally a rotation to a transverse orientation.
Carbon Dioxide Reduction by Pincer Rhodium η2-Dihydrogen Complexes: Hydrogen-Binding Modes and Mechanistic Studies by Density Functional Theory Calculations

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations using the KMLYP method on a series of pincer PCP−rhodium dihydrogen complexes have been employed to model and examine the proposed mechanisms for the pincer PCP−rhodium complexes mediated hydrogenation of carbon dioxide (CO2). The relative energies of dihydrogen rotamers and dihydride isomers were evaluated together with T1 values to determine the molecular structures of these complexes. We have investigated possible pathways for the CO2 reduction processes involving the formation of rhodium dihydride species. Although the dihydrogen complexes are more stable than the corresponding dihydride isomers, the reduction of CO2 has to proceed through the dihydride structures.
Social characteristics of patients admitted to and terminated from mental health centers

The assumption that terminations data represent a cross section of patients treated at mental health centers is investigated by comparing social characteristics of patients admitted to and terminated from mental health centers. The great majority of patient characteristics of the two groups are similar enough to make the above assumption safely.
Axis of Jet Fragmentation

The possibility that jets fragment with limited momentum transverse not to the jet momentum but to a color-anticolor axis is considered. This broadens jets somewhat in multijet events and leads to secondary maxima in the laboratory distributions of jet fragments.
Missing annual external radiation dosimetry data among Hanford workers.

Epidemiological studies of workers employed at the Hanford Site have been underway for nearly 30 years. Although the external radiation dosimetry program at Hanford has been fairly comprehensive, some workers included in previous epidemiological analyses have periods of employment during which there are missing annual external radiation dosimetry records. In this report, employment history records and annual external dosimetry records have been used to investigate the extent of missing annual external dosimetry records for workers at the Hanford facility. A “nearby” procedure for estimating values for missing annual external dosimetry records was evaluated. Among the 33,459 workers who were employed at least 180 days and had at least one annual external dosimetry record, annual external dosimetry records were missing for 8% of the years of employment (32,323 missing annual external dosimetry records). Missing annual external dosimetry records were more common for female Hanford workers than for male workers, and for workers employed in the early years of Hanford's operation than for workers employed in later years of operation. The nearby procedure provided reliable estimates of values for missing annual external dosimetry records. Using this procedure, 18,937.5 mSv were estimated for missing annual external dosimetry records; this was 2% of the total recorded cumulative external radiation dose for these workers. Missing annual external dosimetry records should be considered as a potential source of bias and uncertainty in investigations of radiation–cancer associations among Hanford workers.
Compact Degradation Sensors for Monitoring NBTI and Oxide Degradation

We designed two compact in situ NBTI and oxide degradation sensors with digital outputs in 130 nm CMOS. The 308 μm2 NBTI sensor and the 150 μm2 oxide degradation sensor provide digital frequency outputs and are compatible with a cell-based design methodology without requiring analog supplies. The sensors enable high-volume data collection and monitoring of degradation mechanisms to guide dynamic control schemes and warn of impending device failure. Large scale data-collection permits improved modeling and the potential for insight into the underlying reliability mechanisms. The oxide degradation sensor monitors the change in gate leakage under stress conditions and is the first proposed of its kind. The NBTI sensor is 110× smaller than previous work and is designed to compensate for temperature variations during measurement. A maximum error of 2.2% is observed for the NBTI sensor under process, voltage, and temperature variations. It provides ΔVth measurement with 3σ accuracy of 1.23 mV from 40° C-110° C.
Intraoperative motor mapping of the cerebral peduncle during resection of a midbrain cavernous malformation: technical case report.

Objective and importance Brainstem cavernous malformations that seem to come to a pial or ependymal surface on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging studies may, in fact, be covered by an intact layer of neural tissue. For cavernous malformations in the cerebral peduncle, intraoperative stimulation mapping with a miniaturized probe can determine whether this overlying tissue harbors fibers in the corticospinal tract. In addition, intermittent monitoring with transcranial motor evoked potentials (TcMEPs) helps to protect this vital pathway during resection of the lesion. Clinical presentation A 20-year-old woman collapsed after a cavernous malformation in the left cerebral peduncle hemorrhaged into the pons, midbrain, and thalamus. She presented with right hemiparesis and left oculomotor palsy. Intervention The cavernous malformation was completely resected through a left orbitozygomatic craniotomy and transsylvian approach. Stimulation mapping of the cerebral peduncle with a Kartush probe (Medtronic Xomed, Inc., Jacksonville, FL) identified the corticospinal tract lateral to the lesion, and a layer of tissue over the lesion harbored no motor fibers. TcMEP monitoring helped to guide the resection, with increased voltage thresholds and altered waveform morphologies indicating transient impaired motor conduction. All TcMEP changes returned to baseline by the end of the procedure, and the patient's hemiparesis improved after surgery. Conclusion Stimulation mapping of the corticospinal tract and intermittent TcMEPs is a safe and simple surgical adjunct. Expanded monitoring of the motor pathway during the resection of cerebral peduncle cavernous malformations may improve the safety of these operations.
Variation of nerve to flexor hallucis brevis.

Background: Hallopeau's nerve is a branch of the lateral plantar nerve that supplies the flexor hallucis brevis muscle while also forming an anastomosis with the medial plantar nerve. In this study, the presence of this neural anastomosis was determined through dissection of cadaveric specimens. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six fresh-frozen adult feet (13 matched pairs) were dissected to assess the presence or absence of Hallopeau's nerve. Results: Dissections revealed four out of 26 specimens had this anastomosis. Conclusion: This study confirms this anatomic variation. Clinical Relevance: The clinical significance of these anastomoses remains unknown. These anastomoses are analogous to some in the hand and forearm.